Hawks

By honest_abe

January 12, 2007 04:08 PM | Link to this

NEW OWNER/S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By nelly

January 12, 2007 04:09 PM | Link to this

The answers in short 1) Not really, but they are so bad it doesn’t matter anyway. 2) No, Billy Knight sucks and looks like a retarded monkey, 3) Yes and No, this ongoing ownership battle helps nobody, but it wasn’t ownership that passed on chris paul and luol deng. It wasn’t ownership that gave craig claxton(i will never call him speedy again because he doesnt deserve a nickname) a 26 million dollar 4 year deal, signed john edwards to a 2 year 2 million dollar deal, signed ren “fatty” wright to a 2 year 6 million dollar deal, and called media and fans idiots for not believing that Joe Johnson could be a point guard. This all goes back to Billy Knight. I was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt for awhile but this season has angered me more than ever as a hawks fan. I would like to see more out of Woodson, and I hate to hear him using injuries as an excuse after losing to a hornet team with more injuries than we have, but the blame simply can’t be put on him right now with this pathetic ensemble that Knight has put together. The owners have been idiots, and as a current law student I am dumbfounded as to how they left such important information out of the deal they made with Belkin for the buyout. However, I believe this ownership group has in its best interests to make the hawks back into a winning franchise, but right now the only way to get back on that track is to fire knight. If we allow him to conduct one more offseason with us we will be screwed for the next 5-10 years. How I yearn for the days of the first and second round playoff exits of the smitty, blaylock, corbin, mutombo days. At least those teams were something to be proud of. About the only good thing right now for hawks fans is that Smitty is doing the games, I hope we don’t lose him too. I just hope these owners make the right decisions, they are not even tough decisions at this point. Only time will tell. And Sekou, for the love of god, get us a knight interview and be tough on him don’t let his ugly pathetic retarded fat self get away unscathed. He deserves every single criticism he will get from us. He criticizes everyone else but never takes any accountability for anything. Ask him why after saying he likes big point guards, he went out and signed craig claxton, ask him why he signed an old center in lorenzen wright when nobody else wanted him. Ask him if he still holds the same views towards the media and the fans or if he can finally admit how stupid some of the decisions he has made are. PLEASE SEKOU YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE THAT CAN DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS.

By Dale

January 12, 2007 04:16 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I have to somewhat disagree with you. The owners allowed our GM to throw a max contract to Joe Johnson to play point guard, that’s more money than guys like Steve Nash, Agent 0, Tony Parker,Chauncey Billups and last but not least Chris Paul currently make. On the other hand, I do believe we have rather weak owners. That just makes Billy Knight’s job more challenging, however he wouldn’t be the first GM to have to work with a sorry owner.

Billy Knight had full authority to draft guyls like Deng over Chill, Paul over Williams, Duhon over Stoudamire, and Foye over Sheldon and he didn’t.

The Cupboard is bare because the guy choosing which groceries to buy is not spending the money he has wisely. You have to work within the budget alloted to you, it’s called efficiency, that’s the role of a good manager, spend less and make more.
The Bulls are doing a great job at it. In the NFL the Eagles and Patriots do a great job, in MLB the Oakland A’s also understand that concept. Our GM doesn’t.

By Anakin Joe

January 12, 2007 04:19 PM | Link to this

Elements of our PERFECT STORM:

Owners lacking funds and power + An Incompetent GM + An Ineffective Coach + The NBA’s Youngest Roster + Lack of Player Leadership + Injuries = Your 2006-2007 Atlanta Hawks

By Gram

January 12, 2007 04:28 PM | Link to this

The Hawks aren’t even allowed to take on certain contracts because a judge ruled that to do so might make the franchise more or less valuable when a final decision is made about who gets to buy who out. With that restriction, how can they ever improve? They will suck until the ownership situation is resolved. They may even suck after that, who knows.

By Harry Hawk

January 12, 2007 04:30 PM | Link to this

The fact is that if the Hawks can continue to have an injury-plagued season, they’re almost a lock to keep their pick in the draft (if the ping-pong balls don’t knock us down to fourth or something, which would be too cruel a fate for any NBA team to endure). It could be the best thing to happen to this sorry franchise. Think about it: Get “lucky” (or unlucky for those who have to endure it) this year and get a guy like Oden or Durant in the top three and those injuries and terrible performances could be well worth it. I’d take that over 32 wins and a lost lottery selection any freakin’ day of the week.

By Scott

January 12, 2007 04:31 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I had no expectations that the Hawks were a playoff team or even 500. However, you need to add to your list of questions why is it the team seems to quit. The few times I’ve watched them - and I’ll admit, a few is about all I can stomach - they appear to be standing around, especially on offense, waiting for something to happen. Is it poor conditioning? Do they care? I think that is the one perception, real or not, that the fans are the most upset about - at least this fan.

By Dale

January 12, 2007 04:38 PM | Link to this

Gram, did the Wright and Claxton signing’s make this team more valuable? I say thank God for the judge, is there is anyway we can legally stop Billy from making another move?

By Hawks, Braves same problem

January 12, 2007 04:42 PM | Link to this

The Hawks and Braves suffer the same flaw, really, really, really, REALLY bad ownership underlying the franchise. The Hawks don’t have a real owner. The ownership by committee crap was doomed to fail, yet TWAOL apparently couldn’t find a traditional buyer, a mega-rich individual. And they apparently can’t find the same type of buyer for the Braves, either. These franchises, yes including the proud Braves, are going to crumble under this type of corporate ownership.

By Jay

January 12, 2007 04:47 PM | Link to this

“2) Has the team been given all the necessary resources to compete at the highest level?”

Yeah right. Not only has Knightmare NOT provided the necessary resources (only one scorer, no starter-caliber pg or center) he self-created a logjam at forward so that even if we did have a starter-worthy power forward (which is what Shelden will be) he will never play more then 15-20 minutes once Josh Smith gets healthy…thereby ensuring mismatches EVERY single night against the team.

The title of the blog easily applies to the talent level on this team. And there is only one man to blame for that…Knightmare.

By Matt from Hotlanta Hawks

January 12, 2007 04:48 PM | Link to this

What’s scary is that the Hawks are only 5 games out of the playoffs, with 2 games in hand on the Bucks. If they can tread water and get healthy, they are a 6 game win streak away from being right back in the hunt. The goal for the season should be to entertain this freaking city, man. Rebuilding, schmebuilding.

By mykhalc

January 12, 2007 04:50 PM | Link to this

it is NOT about business with these owners now!! it is about a vindictive, all-out brawl!!! REAL BUSINESSMEN would have settled this conflict a long time ago!! it’s obvious that the non-BELKIN owners did not know who they were gettin’ in bed with when they brought him into the group. and it’s obvious that BELKIN has NO LOVE, RESPECT, nor committment to the city of ATL. his initial investment would have been returned MANY times over had he been bought out as agreed, no matter what the final appraisal would have shown. instead, we have a franchise and NBA city being held hostage by the ineptness of one side and the scroogeness/selfishness of the other. and it’s the fans that continue to suffer and be asked to continue to support a team that has decided to quit!! and REGARDLESS of the answers to all three questions the end result SHOULD BE the players havin’ enough PRIDE and RESPECT FOR THE GAME to CONTINUE to give their ALL!!! in fact, there is NO RESPECT FOR THE GAME FROM ANYONE IN THIS ORGANIZATION, FROM THE TOP DOWN!!!

CLEAN HOUSE!!!!!! NO SPIRIT…NO BELKIN…NONE OF ‘EM!!

By The Other Peter

January 12, 2007 05:13 PM | Link to this

I still like the potential of the team and while it’s frustrating to witness this I won’t give up on them.

A lot of the “success” in the NBA is, lets face it, based somewhat upon luck. I mean if Dwight had fallen down to us would the situation look as hopeless?

Even the way that the Spirit was formed (by God’s breath? Think not) was as it stands now, was horrible luck for us.

All I can do now is hope that I’m lucky to live long enough to see them win again. ‘Course I could help that along by not watching them as much.

By jcboyett

January 12, 2007 05:22 PM | Link to this

Im usually as positive and upbeat a hawks fan as you will find, but this team is absolutely lost. Marvin Williams is not developing into anything other than a jumpshooter that can’t make shots and a driver that gets an offensive foul every time he goes near the hoop. Salim Stoudamire has gotten progressively worse from last year. These young players need some guidance, and Woodson, Drew, & Herb Brown are obviously not improving their games. The progress of the Joshes is fun to watch, but jsmoove hasn’t learned the first low post move since he’s been in Atlanta. Everybody makes bad draft picks and hindsight is 20/20, but these players are not improving at all.

By Richie Rich

January 12, 2007 05:55 PM | Link to this

BOTTOM LINE is that after a 4-1 start, we have lost 22 of 28 games!!!

By Clyde

January 12, 2007 06:53 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Craig

January 12, 2007 06:56 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are not serious about winning. It’s mostly political correctness and such. It’s not even worth the effort to type about….

By infamouskrs

January 12, 2007 07:01 PM | Link to this

Big ups to DALE for thought of the year…so far

” I SAY THANK GOD FOR THE JUDGE, IS THERE ANY WAY WE CAN LEGALLY STOP BILLY FROM MAKING ANOTHER MOVE ? “

LOL…..that about knocked me off my chair !

By CJ

January 12, 2007 07:11 PM | Link to this

The real problem is the owners. They don’t/can’t spend the money then the Hawks will never be able to compete for the best players in the league. Next is the GM b/c Knight doesn’t have any desire to build a proper team. Luckily it seems like both of those problems may go when the court ruling occurs. Lets hope Belkin really does want to spend money on this team.

By infamouskrs

January 12, 2007 07:11 PM | Link to this

something else for everyone to “chew” on…..David Stern should be partially held accountable for not stepping in and putting an end to all this BS between the owners. How can he sit by and allow these people to run an NBA franchise into the ground? This should not be tolerated by the league.

Overall, this ownership group was approved by an NBA board of voters…..shame on the league!

Looks like i got “hosed” this year from Santa…all i wanted was a competitive Hawks squad!

By curious

January 12, 2007 07:19 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith is back tonight.

By Steve T

January 12, 2007 09:01 PM | Link to this

Now, we see what the Hawks needs. Josh Smith is back. The Hawks are controlling the paint. We need more people like Josh Smith, and Solomon Jones.

By Volman

January 12, 2007 09:35 PM | Link to this

I will give my thoughts at the end of the game…

All I can say is:

Atlanta fans are TERRIBLE

I can understand not following the Hawks, but so many people cheering for the Pistons.. I have turned my tv on mute. makes me sick.

By Volman

January 12, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this

alright, let’s start hearing praise for the Hawks now…

I really don’t want to hear it… but if you all want to go from bashing to pointing out some good things, then that’s cool.

Great game Josh Smith.. he is the reason we win ball games. Welcome back.

By Wedgie Evans

January 12, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

Wow! What a welcome change to see a team giving 110% effort, crashing the boards, sharing the ball, and playing defense for 48 minutes. Coincidentally it comes in a game where Josh Smith is back and Zaza Pachulia is out — which translates into way better defense in the paint, more athleticism on the floor, and less unsuccessful post-ups called for the amazingly untalented Pachulia. Also nice to see everyone attacking the rim, creating open looks for guys like Salim Stoudamire and Josh Childress who can knock down those open J’s. But hopefully this team keeps in mind that they just beat a team missing their best player, and they will have to bring even better efforts if they want to turn this into a winning streak instead of one isolated win.

I don’t think payroll is a very valid excuse for the Hawks’ struggles, seeing as how Detroit, Chicago, Toronto, Orlando, and Utah are among the 10 lowest paid teams in the NBA, and all would be playoff teams if the season ended today. It’s not about how much you spend, it’s about how you spend it.

And yeah, Atlanta fans are pathetic.

By reese

January 12, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

First of all, great win Hawks.

Welcome back josh smith and thank you for bringing the offensive and defensive intensity. Thank you for getting rebounds and pushing the pace of the game. Thank you for blocking shots and not being afraid to shoot the ball from where ever you want. That 3 pointer you made at the end of the game was a dagger into the pistons and into all of the fans who tell you not to shoot.

The Pistons taught the hawks a lesson tonight. They taught them how they have to play to be a good team. The best part is that the hawks played better than their teachers.

Shelden, thank you for taking your offensive rebounds back up and getting fouled.

Childress, thank you for taking the clutch shots, handling the ball, making steals and blocking shots.

Joe Johnson, thank you for being the leader by example. You put on an offensive show by making 13 of 17 shots. You were the point guard for most of the second half and didn’t turn if over.

Marvin Williams thank you for being that other double digit scorer and leading the team in assist and rebounds.

Royal, thank you for shooting the ball and bringing stability at the point in the early part of the game.

Salim, thank you for penetrating and kicking the ball out to teammates. Also, you hit the 3 pointers at the right time and allowed the team to keep a lead.

Solomon Jones, thank you for blocking shots and setting screens.

Lorenzen, thank you for only having 1 foul.

This was a great team win and I could tell from the smiles on the faces of all players that you had FUN!!!!!!!!!.

Guess what, so did I.

By Tyger

January 12, 2007 10:49 PM | Link to this

By Tyger

January 12, 2007 03:30 PM | Link to this

Speedy out; Hawks have a chance!

Hawks were playing their best in three years prior to the insertion of Speedy Claxton into the starting line-up.

Granted, you must play your big $7M free agent acquisition, but do you force a guy into the lineup that hadnt practiced all summer?

The results are horrid. He immediately stunk up the place and destroyed all chemistry whatsoever and now he’s leaving the team in shambles.

He’s not hurt, he’s embarrassed and cant face his teammates or the fans. He sucks and he knows it and doesnt want to hurt the franchise any further. At least we can give him credit for that.

Did you know?? $7M Speedy makes more than Chauncey Billups $3.2M

By Tyger

January 12, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

NO SPEEDY = VICTORY

By mykhalc

January 12, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

didn’t see the game but nice to know the team gave a REAL effort!! amazin’ what that can do!! and nice to have JS back in the lineup!! the boxscore shows some different things from the past. my question…what will WOODSON take from this game??? can/will he learn from what just took place. personally, i don’t have a lot of confidence that he will take ENOUGH notice to try to repeat what’s necessary!!??!! hell, even JJ’s minutes were down!!! i think WEDGIE and STEVE T point out the obvious for WOODSON!!!

By Volman

January 12, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Joe was taken out with about 2 minutes left in the first quarter… He sat for a LONG time in the second as well as the third…

I think that really helped him out in the long run and kept him fresh.

Good move, Woody!

By Steve T

January 12, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

Hey man, lay off of Speedy. I wish we had another like him. The guy will hustle. The Hawks won because they play tough in the middle.

This game points out what I been saying all along about moving Zaza to power forward. I am old school and believe that you you tough guys in the middle. Zaza is not that type of player. His value may be maximize at power forward.

I am glad you asked about the center position. We have Wright, Jones, and Shelden. Billy needs to find another guy that can rebound and block shots.

Now Woody need to place the mustard man more.

By Marie

January 12, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

J-Smoove is definitely back! Way to go Hawks! Philips Arena was smoking tonight!!

By ray

January 13, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Nice win, and one I admittedly did not expect. Two big things I noticed: Joe was back in his groove, but he ain’t the only one that seems to make his teammates better. How about Josh Smith. I don’t think his return and a win was coincidence. I don’t care that he only got five points. He still got a decent amount of rebounds and had three blocks.

Childress gave his usual amount of very good production and Marvin managed to step it up a couple of notches. Shelden did well off of the bench and would you believe it…Lo Wright actually started and only committed one foul!

Bottom line, whatever worked this time should be built on and repeated next time. JJ has had problems in some games in the recent past with beating double teams and pretty much just scoring in general. So how is it that he puts up 34 against one of the toughest defensive teams in the league? Whatever plays were drawn up obviously worked…use them AGAIN. Again, I think Smith contributed to that by being a threat himself (he always is, unless his shot selection is unusually bad) and it created a snowball effect.

Even though it was nice to have Smith back, I still refuse to believe that injuries are all that stands between this team and greatness..or even mediocrity. While Smith changes the game, so does Childress, so does Salim when he’s on and gets the PT, so does JJ, so does Speedy when he’s actually playing, so does anybody. The difference is the mental approach. Each one of these guys can change the game from a loss to a win. But they ALL have to play with that mentality. When they do, and everyone is healthy, it will translate into wins. At worst, it will translate into competitive games. But when each guy is looking at the other and hoping the other guy has a break-out game, then nobody does and everybody is bummed out. And Woodson has that insanely stupid look on his face…AGAIN. That’s what we’ve been seeing lately, that’s why we’re complaining so much.

NOW, let’s see if the fellas can get two in a row. If you beat Detroit, there are a lot of teams you can beat. I’ll reserve lavish praise for a Hawks team that is getting after people like they were early in the season. Well, let’s see it fellas!

By ray

January 13, 2007 12:11 AM | Link to this

We still need some good moves in the trade market. We will not continue to beat teams with a good effort in the middle 1 out of 10 or 15 games. Ain’t gonna cut it. Make a move.

By Steve T

January 13, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

Hey Ray, all the hawks need is a pretty good big man. We need one that can block shots and rebound.

By mykhalc

January 13, 2007 02:13 AM | Link to this

RAY, i’m easy bro. all i ask (RIGHT NOW) is that they choose to REALLY compete!!

just a thought, i think ZAZA needs to come off the bench. establish some offensive chemistry between JJ, MARVIN, and JSMITH. put a defensive presence in at the 5, LW (maybe) as long as he’s producin’. then try to establish some chemistry with SHELDON, ZAZA, JC, and SJONES as a core 2nd unit. this might not be the best 2nd unit but you get the idea (hopefully). but WOODSON has gotta try to establish some consistency with roles and units as bodies get healthy!!

By JohnD

January 13, 2007 08:44 AM | Link to this

Perception is interesting. A fan in the first row near the Hawk bench yelled at Coach Woodson to “Get Smith outta there” for the entire game. Into the 3rd quarter JS led the team in both rebounds and assists.

San Antonio players give Speedy much credit for their success while he played there. I am certain he would rather not be injured and would prefer to contirbute. We should not blame the players because the Owners and GM are willing to overpay.

There is young talent on the team and a dominant center would certainly change the entire perception.

By jamal

January 13, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

Did ya’ll notice something. when ZaZa is out turnovers are down. do not start ZaZa “the turnover machine” and we will start to win he is a big reason why we lose, he is terrible.

By KPH

January 13, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

The Hawks are a joke and the NBA is an even bigger joke the game of basketball as it is meant to be played long ago gave way to gangsta rappa wanna be’s in baggy basketball uniforms. Look what happens to these punks now days on the world stage. The olympic team should go back to playing NCAA players and see if that helps because these guys are an embarrassment to the USA.

By **NATIVE SON**

January 13, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

There is so much negativity surrounding the Hawks,I don’t know where to begin.Yeah, they seem to quit sometimes,but when you’re used to losing,the fat lady sometimes rides the bus with you.We all do it,it’s a human thing.Only they’re in the spot light.The coaching has’nt been the best,but the team has shown itself to be very competitive.They can’t even boast a full squad this season.We all saw it at the start,but the injuries were too much for such a young team.Their only crime right now,is that they’re young.But when they are healthy they can play with anybody.If you love the Hawks,and are frustrated and want to vent,I can see that.But you still have to accentuate the positive.This is a good team coming together,and I like it.Peace.

By J. Shuttlesworth

January 13, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

The owners are an abomination, but that’s harder to change than the coach.

The same bunch of fools owns the Thrashers.

By Dan

January 13, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Hey Volman,

Why don’t you try actually going to games before you call out all Atlanta fans as being terrible. You sound like some kind of Dan Patrick wannabe.

Sekou, I would be curious to hear your response to Jeff Schutlz’s article this morning. I thought is was a pretty harsh take on our p** owners. I don’t really like Schultz. I think he is more interested in trying to be funny than actually breaking down any game or team. However, I agree with him on the owners. They are clowns. Your thoughts?

By reese

January 13, 2007 01:00 PM | Link to this

Yes, it is only 1 game, but the hawks players impressed us all last night. Now, it time for me to inspire coach woodson.

I understand that you have to play the cards you are dealt. However, Solomon Jones looked more comfortable on the floor than Lorenzen Wright. Its time to start switching the number of minutes between the two. Solomon played 18 mins and Lorenzen played 21 mins. Lorenzen should not play more minutes than solomon again.

Until you get a dominant Inside player who blocks shots and scores from the paint or until Lorenzen Wright plays better than solomon, you have got to start solomon occasionally. You once commented that Shelden would look better when playing against better competition. Now is the time to give Solomon the same chance. You don’t have to do it every game, but try it out at least once or twice a week.

He and Josh in the lineup give you two shot blockers to provide that defensive pressure you desire. The key is that the others have to rebound and grab deflections because Josh and Solomon will be protecting the paint.

Others have stated that the rotation should be cut to 8 players. However, I played sports and I always believed that everyone should play. It makes practice that much more rewarding as a player because you know that you are going to play and utilize the facets you are learning. Everyone does have to play many minutes, but it keeps them in the game and better prepared when a key player is injured.

I challenged your players in the last blog to show that they care for you as a coach and BK as their GM. They responded to show that they do care.

Now, its time for you to show that you care for them. The following Josh Childress Quote says it all.

“It was just fun to play, we were out there running and jumping and everybody was just playing. It made for a fun game. And when it’s fun the instincts kick in and you [all] become better players.”

By Clyde

January 13, 2007 01:16 PM | Link to this

The FIRE BILLY AND WOODY t-shirts were out last night. Eventhough we won, I’m still sticking wit it. If the Pistons would have had Chauncey down the stretch they would have pulled it out.

One thing I did like about the game was Josh Childress playing the point. He ran thingS effectively down the stretch when the Pistons were on a run.

Also it seemed to me that the Hawks played at a faster pace last night with their 2 “veteran” point guards on the bench. They play better when they get up and down the court.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By CJ

January 13, 2007 01:39 PM | Link to this

They really needed a win or the team would have went into full implosion. I also think that the injury cop out they have been complaining about doesn’t hold water because you can win games in this league with solid basketball or at least inspired play. Luckily JJ was able to perform nearly perfect tonight. And I rag on Josh Smith..but I must say he is a decent starter. At this point he shouldn’t be expected to perform offensively b/c he lacks the skill but he is a great energy player b/c of his athletics. Like an improved version of Bow Outlaw. Hopefully the Hawks can eek out 25-30 games at the end of the season just for the sake of player morale.

By CJ

January 13, 2007 01:42 PM | Link to this

And I agree Clyde. If Childress can run the point to an extent than he should start there some nights. I know he isn’t a PG..but we need someone not named JJ to consistently start there.

By Steve T

January 13, 2007 01:56 PM | Link to this

JohnD, some people do not really know basketball. Some people believe that you have to score a bunch of points to be effective.
However, there is more to basketball than just scoring points. For anyone who ever play the game knows that you will have some off nights.
But a good player knows that he can do the little things to help his team. You can can tougher defense. You can grab more rebounds. You can block a few more shots. You can get some steals. This is how you play basketball.

Josh did not have a great shooting game. But he control the paint and that was more important that points. I pointed this out to a co-worker the other day. He wanted to trade Josh Smith because he did not score enough. I told him I like the way Josh Smith play defense.

Now everyone in Atlanta see that we need a bigger version of Josh Smith. Someone laughed that me we I suggested playing Wright and Jones more. I wanted to move Zaza to power forward. Now you see what I was talking about. I grew up in the basketball part of the state.

By tb

January 13, 2007 02:10 PM | Link to this

Every BK draftee (save Diaw) showed something against Detroit. Upgrade at C and PG and the Hawks will be one of the dominant teams for a few yeears.

By Ric Roc

January 13, 2007 02:25 PM | Link to this

Coach Mike Woodson should not solely be the one to blame. Sekou, I agree with you on that point and I’m glad you brought it up.

If you look at the big picture, what coach could win with a roster that generally plays up or down to the level of the opposing talent? The coach only becomes the problem when the players tune him out/ when the team talent level fails to meet expectations; i.e., Atlanta Falcons.

This roster was constructed w/o a point guard, a viable second scoring option, and a legitimate big-man to bang in the paint. It’s tough to win w/o those elements.

For those short-comings, the onus falls to GM Billy Knight. I really wanted to believe that his design of athletic swingman at every position would work—and on some nights, it does.

But it becomes maddeningly frustrating when I have to watch a 6-7 guard/forward in Chils bring up the ball and run point because he’s the best option. It became frustrating to watch when DET began double-teaming Joe and running the half-court trap and our offense basically shut down as result because their is no one else to properly distribute the ball to where it needs to be.

On defense, it’s frustrating to watch this team give up so many points in the paint. No one guards the paint.

But then I realize that this team is quite young. Some things only come with experience. I truly believe that things will be much better when this team becomes veteran-laden. If they can remain healthy and together for another 2-3 years, they could be great. But who wants to wait that long? We’ve been waiting 2/3 years since the year 2000.

Get a point guard (perhaps give Royal Ivey more p.t), a second scoring option, and legit center. The pieces are there. They just need to grow together.

By mykhalc

January 13, 2007 02:39 PM | Link to this

CLYDE, you read my mind. i was wonderin’ about JC at the point. ‘cause i don’t get to see the games here in SF i did not know if WOODSON ever tried it. but thanks to you i know now!!LOL

so how ‘bout this lineup…JC at pg, JJ, MW, JS, SJONES or LW at 5??? at least this way, the best 4 players are on the floor to start the game. from what i’ve read it seems as if LUE and SPEEDY are gonna have to shut it down for awhile. so put these draft picks out there at the same time and see what gives!!! and then maybe try to build a 2nd unit around ZAZA, SHELDEN, LW or SJONES, and maybe DTHOMPSON??!!! i know he’s just on a 10 day right now but put him out there to see what he’s got while we got him!!! he had some good numbers in the D-league. but right now it HAS to be about startin’ the games STRONG, WITH ENERGY, and SMARTS!! and this may be the best lineup to try to do that with!!!

again, i hope WOODSON recognizes what a lot of you guys did and CONTINUES TO EMPLOY IT REGULARLY!!!!! but if i was a bettin’ man it would be hard for me to put my money on WOODSON doin’ the obvious!!!!!

By Clyde

January 13, 2007 02:48 PM | Link to this

The one thing Billy needs to do is quit signing sorry free agents. Have more faith in the young guys.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Volman

January 13, 2007 03:17 PM | Link to this

HEY DAN

I actually do go to games.. I go to Georgia Tech and I’m about 5 minutes from Philips Arena.. I went to about 20 games or so the past two years, and about 7 or so this year. Don’t call me out if YOU DONT KNOW.

The Atlanta fans ARE terrible. I felt sick hearing people cheer for the pistons like that. It’s embarrassing. Go watch any other teams playing at home, and you don’t hear cheers for the other team like that. Don’t give me the “well, the Hawks are bad” crap either. The Bobcats, Grizzlies, Hornets, etc are bad.. (I have been to games there this year, as well) and they don’t cheer for the opposing team like our “fans” did this last game.

So, don’t talk if you don’t know what you’re talking about, please. Thank you.

By jamal

January 13, 2007 03:47 PM | Link to this

There were alot of pistons fans in the crowd. didn’t u see them in their jerseys u dumb@ss b!tch.

By Volman

January 13, 2007 04:09 PM | Link to this

Woah, come on now Jamal. I’m not cursing at others.. Please don’t to me.

I didn’t see 5,000 fans wearing Detroit jerseys… Did you?

By ray

January 14, 2007 12:57 AM | Link to this

Volman,

Heh! Some turds just come right out of the woodwork, don’t they? And HOW do you know they’re turds? ‘Cause the poop smell is prevalent every time they open their mouths…Yeah, I’m sure a FEW Detroit fans showed up in Phillips Arena. However, that wouldn’t explain everything. There are always hecklers and jeerers in the crowd. Of the few that come here and blog, there’s always some. How much more would there be in an Arena of THOUSANDS of people? More amazing than that is the fact that some people will pick THAT of all things to argue with you about. Sad, sick, and sorry. But somewhat entertaining, LOL!

By ray

January 14, 2007 02:51 AM | Link to this

Mykhalc, it would seem that whatever works is what Woody should go with. I’m okay with Chills running the point if it works. Woody should be too. When it isn’t working, go with something else. It’s not like a point-forward is a new and untested concept. And while I’m not even trying to compare players in this case, I have to say this: it works with guys like Lamar Odom. If you find a guy who can do it, use it to your advantage. The key is to not do it all the time unless it is just so highly effective that opposing teams have trouble defending it regularly.

As for the situation with Zaza, you may be right. If Lorenzen, despite how displeased I am with him, does us better in a starting role, then so be it. Perhaps he would perform better that way, just limit his minutes to 20-24mpg. On the other hand, I would rather see Solomon Jones on the court more. But keeping an open mind is also a key thing. Hopefully, this is something Woody is willing to try.

The problem with Zaza, and others have already mentioned this, is that he requires early offensive success to be effective at all in a game. When he scores, he does better on defense. Not great, but better. Unfortunately, he’s not a low post scorer by definition. If he were, it would help the team so much more. He usually either drives or shoots a jumper. Look at Eddy Curry. Not a great defender, but obviously a consistently dangerous threat down low. So the question is this: Is getting Zaza started early worth it? Is it more important than getting Josh or Marvin involved early? Does this help win games?

So what does all this blather come down to? The need for a serious defensive/rebounding presence. OR, a serious offensive low post presence. Needless to say, a combination of the two is literally the best of both worlds. Although some names we’ve bandied about aren’t the best thing, they’re better than what we’ve seen so far. Perhaps we DO have that in Solomon Jones…sometime in the future. For now, our possible Theo Ratliff-in-the-making isn’t getting enough minutes night in and night out to develop into such.

By RA

January 14, 2007 05:23 AM | Link to this

Thanks for dropping the knowledge Sekou! I think you’re right, at least mostly. I think that the Hawks team that was put together this year was talented, but thin all over the place. If there hadn’t been any major injuries, things might have been better, not necessarily playoff better, but better notwithstanding. I think that over the course of this season, we’ve gotten glympses of what might have happened if not for one devestating injury after another after another… To ignore the simple misfortune that the Hawks have suffered this season is to be willfully and treasonously blind! It is a testament to the coaching staff that at this point in such an abysmal season, the Hawks can defeat a team like the Pistons, but again, that was only after the return of Josh Smith, who’s been out for a month! Listen, nobody is more frustrated with the lack of quality basketball in Atlanta than I am, but I’m not going to turn on the team or the coaches. It’s called being a fan. Some of the rest of you might want to check into it! After all, when your best players have spent most of the year riding the bench in Armani suits, there’s only so much you’re going to be able to do.

By Dan

January 14, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Hey Volman,

Do I really have to explain this? Atlanta is home to a lot of people from many different cities. Cities like Chicago, NY, and Detroit. These people are still loyal to their hometown teams. So, it makes sense when those hometown teams come to Philips that there will be cheering for the other team. I don’t think Charlotte, NO, or Memphis have the same situation.

Anyway, fair enough. I guess you do go to games. However, when you rip the cheering at the arena and then in the next sentence tell how you hit the mute button on your TV, it makes one wonder. As a loyal season ticket holder to the Hawks, I get tired of the fan base being ripped by people that set foot in the arena one time a year. You do not fall into that category.

I think the crowd reaction will change. You can call the “Hawks are bad” crap all you want. That is the main reason why you have the low attendance. When the Hawks were 4-1 to start the year, you did have large crowds at the arena and those crowds were supportive. I think a lot in this town are just waiting to have something to cheer about.

See you at the next Hawks game, right?

By roan st

January 14, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Man has this season gone awry. What a disaster after such a promising start. You know things are bad when owners start blogging to defend themselves. I just read the jeff shultz column and bruce levenson has come on to defend himself against remarks that were made in the article.

I will be the first to admit that I was wrong about billy knight. I have defended him in the past when others have attacked his basketball acumem. But after watching this team in another freefall headed for disaster, it is time for gm billy to go. It has become obvious that his last two #1 picks were bad choices for this team. After watching marvin williams play for the past season and a half I have come to the coclusion that he is a complete bust as the #2 pick in the draft. We already had two young small forwards on our team that in my opinion are better players. The only way he could have been justified is if becomes a star and that isn’t looking good. As for shelden williams he has the look of a lifetime NBA role player. For a team that desperately needed some kind of spark, we instead chose a boring role player while exciting young players like foye and roy were available. Knights blunders have set this team back for years. If we don’t finish in the top 3 in the draft lottery we will have one of the longest and worst streches of losing in NBA history.

Finally, I hope the judge in maryland rules in favor of belkin. I’m not really sure I trust belkin or if he will make a great owner but bygod I know he will get rid of billy knight and that is good enough for me. Maybe belkin was right all along and that business about him wanting to operate the hawks on the cheap was just a bunch of propaganda from the other owners.

P.S. I officially apologize to all the billy knight detractors that I sparred with over the last year or so.

By Steve T

January 14, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Let’s hold off on calling Marvin a bust. Remember he is playing with a cast on his hand. Right on, I know we are not seeing everything that Marvin will bring to the table. Right now he is getting some valuable playing experience. He has shown flashes of what he come become.

Shelden is playing with a bad shoulder while adjusting to the pro game. Remember he played around half as many game last season. This off season I would like to see him get in better shape.
Right now, he is 6-9 - 250. His weight is OK. I would like to see him add 10 - 15 pounds of muscles and get in better running condition. I want to see him hustle next season. I do not want to see him move slowly up and down the court.

By Covington,Ga

January 14, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

From looking at the game when we played detroit I notice that Josh Smith provided the team with a much needed spark…We dont have to many players who can provide a spark to a much needed young team(youngest in NBA history)even though Josh Smith is young himself(21)He has the ability to provide this team with a spark but it hasnt been on a consistant level….This team is in need of a high energy veteran player…someone who can be an example to this young team…I bet we all agree that Joe Johnson cant do it himself especially when the double & tripple team him…

By ray

January 14, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Steve T,

I really don’t see where anyone can call Marvin a bust. The team lacks identity, continuity, you name it. And he’s not played at full strength for any good stretch of games. Jury’s still out on him. As for Shelden, I would have thought he was stronger than he’s shown. This guy should be harder to push around in the paint. You’re right, to the weight room with him. He should be PUNISHING guys for even trying to get position against him. I believe that’s a mental thing, though. Look at the guy, he’s got some size, he just needs some meanness.

By mykhalc

January 14, 2007 01:45 PM | Link to this

RAY, i’m with you on SJONES gettin’ the minutes before ZAZA or LW!! but i think we both know that won’t happen with WOODSON, at least not now. and i think startin’ the game with 2 shot-blockers in SJ and JS is the way to go tho. there will be enough offense on the floor with MW, JS, JJ and JC if they start him at point. the more i think about it the more i really like this unit. but i really do think it is the best unit to start the games with!!???!!! and the other good thing is IF JC starts at PG and SPEEDY and/or LUE return then there will be NO attitude problem from JC if he’s brought back off the bench.

the other thing that i took from the boxscore the other nite was the distribution of minutes. for once this season it made sense!! well, except for maybe swappin’ minutes with SJ and LW. but at least LW did the job the other nite.

R.Ivey 10:06 J.Johnson 36:11 J.Smith 30:54 M.Williams 30:37 L.Wright 20:42 J.Childress 38:05 S.Williams 32:05 S.Stoudamire 23:34 S.Jones 17:46

maybe WOODSON NEEDS to be limited in his number of choices!! ‘cause other than the past DET game, his substitutions and minutes have made MOSTLY NO SENSE to me!! in that game, JJ stayed rested and the other cats were on the floor long enough to get a flow goin’!!

and REESE, i know you feel all should play (to para-phrase). but i just don’t feel the HAWKS have that luxury at this point. and mainly it’s my LACK OF CONFIDENCE in WOODSON to recognize what needs to be done when!!!

By Navigator

January 14, 2007 02:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the situation is complex. The ownership is horrible, and everything goes down hill from there.

By mykhalc

January 14, 2007 02:34 PM | Link to this

RAY, one other thing on ZAZA. your point about him havin’ early success offensively. well by bringin’ him off the bench, he’ll mostly being goin’ up against the other team’s backup 5. this MIGHT give him a BETTER chance at some early success??!!! even more reason to bring him off the bench??!!

By Wedgie Evans

January 14, 2007 06:23 PM | Link to this

Like many other people who have posted, I also like the idea of bringing Zaza off the bench and starting someone like Shelden or Solomon Jones at center. Whenever they get Zaza get involved in the offense the game slows down considerably, which is not what this team needs. Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, Speedy Claxton, etc. need to be getting out on the break more often and speeding up the tempo, and that doesn’t happen enough with Zaza in the game. With Z coming off the bench, they can establish more of a defensive presence and get out on the break more to start games off, while bringing him in as a change of pace.

By reese

January 14, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

mykhalc, I would hope that the gained game experience for hawks bench, evaluation of hawks bench players against other teams talent and being better prepared to handle situations when hawks key players are hurt far outweigh any mistakes Woodson would make.

Although, practice is necessary, it is not always a true indicator as to how someone will play in a real game.

There is a scenerio where the hawks would not have any draft picks next year. Therefore, we need to give our big men as much playing time as possible.

I’m not with the group that enjoys watching Shelden play the center position. Also, I’m not big on seeing too much of the lineup that has Childress, Smith, marvin and Johnson on the floor at the same time. At this point in their careers, I think that there are more disadavantages to advantages with this undersized group on the floor. Adding Shelden to the mix, just makes it worse.

By Marcus

January 15, 2007 02:22 AM | Link to this

NOT TRADE ESTEBAN AND SALIM!!! PT FOR THOSE GUYS!!! TRADE LORENZEN!!! TRADE BILLY AND WOODY AND BRING JJ MAMA!!! FIRE BILLY AND WOODY!! WE SUCKKKKKKKKKK

By ray

January 15, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

We can switch around lineups ‘til we’re blue in the face. I see a need for Jones to get more PT so he can develop. The kid hustles, he’s quick, and can get up and down the court pretty good. I’d rather have his skinny behind in there, being quicker than Wright or Pachulia, rotating back on defense.

NO, starting Shelden at center is NOT a solution in my opinion. He’s not quick enough to move with the rest of the team. I don’t think we should start Chill at the point either. But there’s nothing wrong with him coming in after Ivey comes out.

The point is, whether we are limited by injuries, or the whole team is healthy…matchups/mismatches will make or break this team. We can’t match up in the paint with anyone who has a solid low post presence. We can’t matchup with anyone who has a solid pg. So Woodson has to find the right matchups that will keep the team competitive. That includes substituting at the right times.

Pachulia DOES slow the game down a lot of times. Unless he’s one of the best options (which I don’t agree with), then he shouldn’t be looked to first thing for offense.

And forget about this nonsense of getting him involved early so he can play well. Any player, if they play HARD, is effective. If you’re really about team, PLAY HARD all the time and you’ll help the team. This is what each player must do for the team to win. Fact is, like Wedgie said, we may find that Pachulia’s offense is best suited as a change of pace. Why not try something new anyway?

In the face of all of this, one thing cannot be forgotten by the afro king or anyone else: We need a solid big man. A solid rebounding, paint-defending enforcer. We don’t have this guy. We have to go get him. You hear that Billy?

By Rev. M.M

January 15, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this

Good Game Hawks!!! Now we are starting to see what you are capable of doing. Your pace was a little to slow. When you slow up, you let the other team back in the ball game. Remember; Run, slash, shoot, rebound and defend. Play each posession as if the clock is not in your favor. And you will be see what success it brings!!!! Go Hawks!!!

By RotoRob

January 15, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

Now the Hawks are getting relatively healthy, are they poised for a big second half? I covered this topic in my post today at:

[http://www.rotorob.com/basketball/three-in-the-key-are-hawks-ready-to-soar-in-second-half/]

Cheers

R ‘n B [www.RotoRob.com] Daily fantasy sports analysis with an edge

By Volman

January 15, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Dan I’ll see you on Monday at the MLK game. I have class off for the “holiday”.

I just get EXTREMELY frustrated hearing at OUR home games other teams being cheered.. I wouldn’t have been surprised if I heard over the loud speaker a “let’s go Pistons” chant. Seriously. It was that bad, and we all know it.

I could have sworn that I said something about Atlanta having a lot of different people from different cities.. I guess I just didn’t put it down in my post. I know where you’re coming from with the mix of people from different cities, therefore meaning a mix of fanbase. It happens at Falcons games too (the steelers game to be exact)

I just see this city of Atlanta as a city of opportunity, fun, and sports.. In Sacramento where the Kings play, they sell-out pretty much every game they play.. Granted, they were in the playoffs for 8 years in a row, but this year they are no where near the playoffs and the fans still pile in the seats on Tuesday nights.. Is there a reason they are ALWAYS on ESPN or TNT for those games? Their arenas are full to capacity and it makes the NBA look good.

I just wish our fans were as loyal. I would go to SO many more games but I feel embarrassed for the team when there’s 500 people in the crowd at the tipoff to the game. It’s pretty embarrassing.

Ray Wow, great ideas in your posts.. I wish I had enough time to respond to all of them! I will sometime though!

By Dave

January 15, 2007 01:51 PM | Link to this

What’s that old saying?

If a tree falls in the forest and crushes the Hawks, front office and all, will anyone care?

By mykhalc

January 15, 2007 01:59 PM | Link to this

when is trade deadline?

By mykhalc

January 15, 2007 02:54 PM | Link to this

my suggestions are because i DO NOT have confidence that the franchise will act to change the roster anytime soon!! for that matter, no change of ownership, GM, nor coach will happen anytime soon!!! and the last statements i read from GEARON pretty much confirm that!! so with that given fact, i want the best players we HAVE NOW on the floor MOST of the time, as long as they are producin’!! JC is one of the smartest players on the team and one that gives 110% ALL the time. and he brings more to the court than IVEY does at this point. and if he can run PG EFFECTIVELY then let him run it!! SPEEDY is soooooo up and down right now that he should be given time to heal. ‘cause there will be NO continuity established with him being in and out of the lineup as he is right now. and the same for LUE. sit ‘em until they are healthy.

this team CAN NOT be concerned with ALL THINGS AT ONCE!!! they DO NOT have the roster to do it with. so let’s take ONE thing at a time. and IMHO the first concern SHOULD BE startin’ ALL games with the best team we can put on the floor!! and to me, IMHO again, it is JC, JJ, MW, JS, SJ or LW. and i prefer SJ!!

if i thought there was a chance that those in charge would start by fixin’ the roster, then i’d say start there!!! i just DO NOT see that as an doable option with ownership/mgmt team!!!

By honest_abe

January 15, 2007 04:24 PM | Link to this

very nice… i like to look at the box score and see that the 4 best players on the hawks got the bulk of minutes. jj, chills, jsmith and mwilliams all played 37+ minutes. i don’t know if this team is going to beat up a very beat up celtics team. but in my book a win is a win, nobody gave us a pass when the hawks had half their roster sitting on the bench!

By honest_abe

January 15, 2007 04:45 PM | Link to this

oh yes i just thought of the craziest thing after watching the hawks struggle to beat a bad celtics team playing with-out wally and paul pierce… why is it that the hawks seem to have relative success against the pistons? by relative i mean 2 wins over the past two seasons then another win this year. is it because the pistons take the hawks too lightly? there is no excuse for how they lost to the hawks on friday night. could it be (and once again i know this is crazy) that they(pistons) have soft spot for woody, they know he’s in a bind, he was in an incredibly bad losing streak, his job was on the line and basically threw him a bone?

By macaroni Tony

January 15, 2007 04:57 PM | Link to this

This team did good…We are trying to find a groove. This is the first time this year that these guys have had the chance to find that groove. This team is still getting back to full health, and I still believe that they are going to prove some people wrong, and any team can be beat on any giving night.

By Steve T

January 15, 2007 05:00 PM | Link to this

Who still do not think JChill was worth the pick. The guy came to play today. He had a double-double. Some of you want a player to be an instant superstar. Folks, it doesn’t alway happen overnight. Chill is showing y’all what he can become.

BTW, Zaza should y’all he can play also. I still like him as a power forward. I would like to see the Hawks play Wright and Jones at center. They can bring some toughness to the position.

By Volman

January 15, 2007 05:14 PM | Link to this

Great win (even though it was ugly at the end).

Honest Abe Are you kidding me? That idea that the Pistons gave a game to the Hawks is ludacris, and no, not the rapper.

By honest_abe

January 15, 2007 05:25 PM | Link to this

volman. i think i prefaced my remark by saying it was crazy. thank you for confirming it.

oh yes and cute little joke there at the end, i’m still LAUGHING OUT LOUD. waaaaaaaack!

By Double Z Enthusiast

January 15, 2007 06:13 PM | Link to this

Nice game by J-Chill, J-smoove and Joe, but lets not overlook The Sensation of the Caucuses. 10 for 10 from the stripe. Sure he looks like scrub half the time, but Double Z got it done. Anyone know why Woody started the worthless has-been dinosaur at center? Is it even possible to trade Lorenzen Wright and Moderately-quick Claxson?

By mykhalc

January 15, 2007 06:24 PM | Link to this

2 wins in a row!! didn’t get to see the game again tho. so who handled PG most of the game??? JS had 7 blks!! NICE!! no mins for SJONES today?? good boxscores for JC, JJ and JS!!

By Volman

January 15, 2007 07:43 PM | Link to this

Abe I just wanted to confirm man! :-) I know you aren’t crazy! You’re one of the sane ones here! hah

By Volman

January 15, 2007 07:47 PM | Link to this

Mykhalc

I was at the game, and it was a good one! :)

Royal did a good job in the first quarter handling the point and knocking some shots down.. Josh Childress and Joe Johnson did most of the ball handling the rest of the way.. Salim brought the ball up some.. even Josh Smith did (on fast breaks).

It was kind of weird seeing Zaza come off of the bench.. I liked it though. Wright looked good out there today.. He had only a couple fouls.. and he played pretty solid. I think everyone who watched the game couldn’t complain about his performance (he COULD get more rebounds, though).

Josh Smith continues to be a beast across the stat sheet. Man, am I glad he’s back.

I would have loved to see Solomon in there, but I don’t think he fit into the type of game it was today.

Childress had ANOTHER very impressive game. He’s an extremely smart ball player. It looks like he knows what he’s doing.. He misses charges when he drives.. He knows when to take the jumper.. He knows when to drive.. He’s a good defender. I like him.

Good game guys, but remember to keep playing ALL FOUR QUARTERS!

By mykhalc

January 15, 2007 08:06 PM | Link to this

VOLMAN, thanks for the recap. well WOODSON was CLOSE to doin’ the same things 2 games in a row with minutes!! CLOSE!!LOL yeah, IVEY seems like he was solid from the floor with his shots. his assists are always my concern about him. never seems to have ‘em, even with extended PT!!??!! why do you think SJONES was not a fit for the game?? i like JC’s floor smarts too!!

By ATLANTA

January 15, 2007 08:26 PM | Link to this

I was one of those people who wanted Deng or AI over Chills, but I never said he sucked. I don’t even want him to be an instant superstar (I’m willing to wait on Smoove), I just questioned him being the #6 pick and coming off the bench on this young team. I must admit, he has been playing very well as of late. I guess there should be no more whinning about Chills.

By Volman

January 15, 2007 08:32 PM | Link to this

mykhalc

It looks like Lorenzen Wright has been reading the blogs or something, ha!

He has been playing with a new fire since starting the past couple games.. He seems to clog up the lane a little bit as of late, and has gotten a few good rebounds in there.. Knocked down some shots..

I was listening to the press conference after the game, and Woody was talking about “our four” (Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and Josh Childress) and that leaves only room for 1 (which he said Shelden or Zaza). If you add in Wright into that mix for the last spot, you don’t have much time for Slava, Esteban, or Solomon.

I love Solomon’s athleticism.. He just needs to get a little bit more of an offensive game (can’t knock down jumpers like Zaza, LoWright, or Shelden). And possibly, gain some weight. I think those two things are hurting him because he IS a presence defensively.

Ivey seriously brings the ball up the court and passes it to one of the wings.. He is not thinking to keep the pressure on the defense.. He just wants to run the offense and go on with things.. If the opportunity comes where he’s open for a jump shot or cuts under the basket for a layup (which Joe Johnson hit him for one) then he’s there. I don’t see him racking up many assists because he just doesn’t touch the ball in the offense that much.

Let’s see if these guys can go win three out of the next five WINNABLE games. (1. At Minnesota, 2. vs. Charlotte, 3. at Charlotte, 4. at Chicago, 5. at Boston)

I just hope the Hawks can bring some of this momentum into these next games.. They need to look at it in a five game block, I think. Three out of five ain’t bad.

*The fans were GREAT this game. Not terrible. *

By ELnegro

January 15, 2007 08:33 PM | Link to this

AGUANTE URUGUAY LA RE CONCHA DE LA MADRE ESTEBAN ES EL MVP ES EL MEJOR!!! USTEDES SON TODOS UNOS CULO ROTO MANGA DE YANKIS MAL COJIDOS!! TRAGA-SABLE, MAL COJIDOS LA RE CONCHA DE SU MAL PARIDA HERMANA!! ME CAGO EN LA RE CACLCADA CONCHA DE LA MADRE!! ATLANTA YOU SUCK!!YEAH 4 SURE!!

By Volman

January 15, 2007 08:36 PM | Link to this

Atlanta atleast you’re big enough of a man to say it.

You look at our high picks and say “what have they done for us?”

I think Chills is a SMARTER player than Deng or Iguodala.. He’s pretty explosive too…. in a VERY sneaky way.

By A Thinking Fan

January 15, 2007 08:38 PM | Link to this

Good win; GO HAWKS!!!

By CJ

January 15, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this

Good point about matchups. That is the reason the Hawks win or lose night to night. The unbalanced roster puts them at a disadvantage but that is the only way to beat some teams. Can Woodson and the players keep it up, we’ll see. Except on the loosing streaks and some of those losses to similar teams are effort related. They need to also do a better job of adjusting to avoid losing streaks.

By Wedgie Evans

January 15, 2007 10:13 PM | Link to this

I really, REALLY liked seeing Zaza coming off the bench today. The Hawks started the game playing fast, with a lot more energy than usual. That energy level was key to winning today’s game. Then when they needed some inside scoring to slow the game down, they brought in Zaza to change the pace. He should play a little more than the 18 minutes he got today, but I want to see Zaza utilized in this way in the future too.

By Marcus

January 15, 2007 10:31 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter if you played well tonight Zaza, i will say this until i die you are a joke, learn play D. Zaza Pachulia the most pathetic starting center in NBA history.(yeah i now he came of the bench, but i love saying that)lol Great game J-CHILL. Great D J-SMOOVE(7BLK-5STL)WOWW!! FIRE BILLY AND WOODY!! DRAFT ODEN PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!

By ELnegro

January 15, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

CJ ES EL DE SAN ANDREAS!!! PUTOOOOOOOOOSSSSSSSSSS CULO ROTOOOOOO ATLANTA GAYYYYYYYYY ATLANTA GAYYYY YOU SUCK!!!!!!!!!

By reese

January 16, 2007 12:01 AM | Link to this

First of all, great win hawks. Josh and Josh were awesome on both the offensive and defensive ends. Its nice to see them fill up every category on the stats sheet. I believe Marvin did the same as well.

However, I have to admit that I do not understand Mike Woodson.

1) Royal shoots 3 for 3 and doesn’t see the court anymore.

2) JJ plays 43 minutes against a team missing their scoring threats. IMO, playing a lot of minutes causes JJ to pace himself. I’d like to see him play fewer minutes and get the same type of defensive production like the joshes and continue to average 27 or more points.

3) Why is Shelden Williams playing the Center position. Boston made their comeback when he was at the center position. I know that woodson was trying to matchup with Boston’s smaller lineup. But, why not stay big and continue score in the paint. On Defensive, get in their face and have Solomon in the game along with Josh to block/alter shots as they drive to basket.

4)Minutes are there for Solomon, Slava and Thompson. Woodson just needs to reduce the minutes of his top 4.

Lorenzen, its obvious that Mike Woodson is going to play you no matter what. So to make it tolerable for us fans, please do the following. 1)Average at least 1 block per game. Jump up and not at people, that might help. 2)Stop grabbing people as they come into the lane and attempt to play position D, take a charge, alter their shot or block their shot. 3)If you get a offensive rebound or pass while you are in the lane. Shoot the ball. Don’t pass it to the undersized Shelden in a position to get his shot blocked.

JJ, I’m pulling for you to make the all star game and thats why I judge you with a higher standard. But its games like this that you must dominate. I’m pushing for you to play better than the other guards in the East.

Arenas had 51pts and 5ast, Kidd had 19pts, 9ast and 10rbs Vince Carter had 31pts, 6ast, 6rbs 2blk Richard Hamilton 32pts Wade will get voted in. With Iverson being traded to the west and Paul Pierce and Redd out with Injuries, your chances are vastly improved. Please pick up you game to another level on both the offensive and defensive ends.

You had 18 pts and 9ast and 2 rbs. Modest numbers for someone competing for an All star spot.

By ray

January 16, 2007 01:58 AM | Link to this

Glad to see the win. It would be great to see a full game played with intensity. With that let-down, we were a Paul or Wally away from a loss.

Perhaps Woody has been reading the blogs. Whether he did or didn’t, he deserves credit for starting Wright and bringing Zaza in from the bench. Seemed to work (can’t believe I even thought of that one, either), and may work in the future. But the game of match ups is a constant flowing one. What works today against this team may not work tomorrow against another. All the same, it seemed to work. May have actually helped Wright and Pachulia, too.

I too still get confused with the minutes that get doled out. In my opinion, if Woody wants to go small, he should go with Solomon, not Shelden. After all, doesn’t going small mean going with more SPEED? Of course, if Solomon is playing badly or in foul trouble, who ELSE are you going to go with? And why is Batista getting little or no burn? Ah yes, more questions from the peanut gallery…

You know, the man with the afro is a genius. I have to hand it to him. Before anybody tries to check me into the clinic, I’m talking about Josh Childress. 23 and 14? I know he doesn’t get us this every night, but he tries. Gotta love his game, his hustle.

Gotta hate that we can’t get this from the 4 or 5 spot.

As for non-genius with the ‘Fro, were you paying attention in the Boston game? A fella named Rondo…might be of some use if you could get him. And I’m sure you could get him.

By ray

January 16, 2007 02:01 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Volman. I can’t take credit for all the ideas, though. It’s kinda cool that some of the ideas we’ve had were played out in this last game, though. Woody definitely needs to let these guys run more. He also needs to keep an open mind as far as gameplans go. Switching up is adjusting, not admitting that you were wrong in your initial approach. Flexibility, flexibility, flexibility.

By mykhalc

January 16, 2007 02:11 AM | Link to this

REESE, definitely on the opposite end regarding the minutes. top 4 need to average 33 - 38 mins/game in order to have a chance. JJ probably is needed 35-40 mins/game. and i say this assuming they are producin’ on that given nite. but the past 2 wins help support my view. and look at other teams boxscores to check out their top players/starters minutes. you’ll find they’re 35-40+ mins. the cats need to be on the floor, A LOT!!

if WOODSON allows these cats to play continuously solid minutes and allows them to RUN then he forces opponents to matchup to the team’s speed and quickness!! and this is why i’d make sure SJONES gets solid minutes too. he can run with the other 4 and he blocks shots and rebounds!!

WOODSON PLEEEEEEEASE SEE THE OBVIOUS!!

By mykhalc

January 16, 2007 02:52 AM | Link to this

yep, gonna give myself props on the ZAZA call!!! LOL

*By mykhalc

January 13, 2007 02:13 AM | Link to this

RAY, i’m easy bro. all i ask (RIGHT NOW) is that they choose to REALLY compete!!

just a thought, i think ZAZA needs to come off the bench. establish some offensive chemistry between JJ, MARVIN, and JSMITH. put a defensive presence in at the 5, LW (maybe) as long as he’s producin’.*

i ain’t shy!!!LOL