Hawks

By Floze

January 18, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

I would send Salim and Batista down to Mellow Mushroom for a Mighty Meaty Pizza. If we could get a real live person for them - even better.

By Theo

January 18, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this

I agree with Sekou - go get a PG that can stay healthy and build chemistry. It makes no sense to wait for Speedy to come back and screw up what the team might have working.

By honest_abe

January 18, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

lol floze.

how about make it a bigger trade and get some low post help as well. send salim, bastista, speedy and lorenzen for ridnour and collison or petro. i doubt the salaries will work. but i think the hawks need another big man to help in the paint.

great win last night. ya i was all for the hawks tanking this season. but i’m sick of the fact that this team has almost no fan base and it’s about damn time this team starts winning NOW! i have realistic expectations but i just dont’ think i can go for another season in which this team regresses instread of progresses.

only 9 games out of first now. HEH. of course the being in the east the hawks are capable of going on a little winning streak, but since they are the hawks they are just as liable to lose the next 10 out of 11.

oh the life of an atlanta hawks fan.

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I like the trade proposal, but I don’t think that Seattle would. What about a more pressing issue. Why not deal for a big man. I stated on another blog…what about ATL bringing back Nazr. Wouldn’t have to give much up for him, since he’s pretty much obsolete now in DET. Then, we would have our young core in tact with a fierce rebounded and good inside defender. He could easily average pts/reb/blocks 12/10/2. Would ATL take that every night…YOU BET! Just my thought process.

By Bob Hill

January 18, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Sure thats a good trade for the Hawks, but is it a good trade for the Sonics? Couldn’t another team offer a more lucrative deal? What say you Sekou?

By David

January 18, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

Sekou, The blogs are normally great, but you got to stop with the trades man… no one would give us that much for Salim. He’s not a PG, and he’s only on the back end of our rotation. Batista can’t get any PT even with our injuries… that says something doesn’t it?

By scott case

January 18, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

There is no way the Hawks bring in a honkey. That’s just crazy talk. What we need is another small forward. Also extend Knights contract. Its almost as likely for the Hawks to get a white boy as it is for Paul Hewitt to recruit a white boy at Tech. And I’m not talking about Eurotrash and Aussies.

By Mike P.

January 18, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

no chance sonics will let ridnour go for these. they are rating him as high as hawks rate josh smith. if hawks want ridnour, they need to give up bigger fish

By honest_abe

January 18, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

go away scott. we don’t like to talk about black and white here. and that’s what makes this blog so enjoyable. go play on the falcons blog you’ll find more of your kind over there.

By cowa

January 18, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

David, you’d be surprised at the value Salim carries with him. Realize two things: 1) shooters are at a premium these days, and 2) Salim is cheap.

Sekou, I like this trade alot. Ridnour is a solid PG who would fit in with our core guys now. He may be cheap this year, but he goes up to $6M/year over the next 3 years. I still like it, but then you have to have a plan to move Speedy before next year.

Also, I am a fan of Danny Forston, who Seattle is being rumored to be waiving. He is tough as nails, a classic enforcer. For all you folks out there who don’t want to move Batista (and I have absolutely no idea why), Forston is 10 times the player Batista is. He just doesn’t get along with his current coach. Now, I know all the contenders will probably try to move on him, but we should still try to get him if he becomes available after a buy out.

By Anakin Joe

January 18, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

I still don’t see how we trade players in the 9-12 slots of the roster for someone who would be in slots 2-5 on this team. Let’s face it, if we want a truly impactful player coming back to us, we have to consider trading a piece of our nucleus. If we could get back Ridnour AND Collison for Marvin, Salim, Wright and other assets, then let’s back a truly big deal trade. A healthy Medvedenko makes Wright expendeable (even though he is playing well of late). We still need some legit big bodies to bang down low. A PF combo of Collison and Shelden would bring the noise every minute of every game.

By granola

January 18, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

I went to college with Ridnour and when I used to wake up early to get to campus at 6:30 AM, you would see him jogging/running around campus. I always respected his work ethic and selfless play.

By Wedgie Evans

January 18, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

Salim’s got great range on his jumper, is an excellent free throw shooter, can’t play point guard, and plays no defense.

Ridnour’s got great range on his jumper, is an excellent free throw shooter, can play point guard, and plays no defense.

Is there something I’m missing here? Why would Seattle dump a pure point guard (pretty hard to find in this league) for a guy who basically duplicates what Ray Allen does, but MUCH, MUCH less efficiently?

Earl Watson may be starting for them right now, but that doesn’t mean they are just going to give Ridnour away.

The Falcons should still be trying to trade for a post player, not for a point guard.

By Wedgie Evans

January 18, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

I like JohnGTFan’s idea much better — send Salim and Batista to Detroit for Nazr Mohammed. That would give the Hawks a pretty good post defender and a decent post scorer, someone who can be physical inside without fouling out like Lorenzen Wright. It would make sense for Detroit, too, since they have too many forwards and not enough guards, and could use the scoring punch off the bench.

By rob

January 18, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

I like the deal a lot. I agree it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense for Seattle though. Could we just give them some cash as well to make it work?…I mean we aren’t going to use it.

By Wade

January 18, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

Someone educate me here. Can the Hawks even pull off a trade for a guy with a multi-year contract? I was under the impression the last ruling wouldn’t allow that. I would love to see us do something for sure…just not sure legally we can.

By St. Bernard

January 18, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this

Any half decent point guard is an upgrade over no one! Salim doesn’t fit here so let’s get him somewhere he can play.

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Here’s the best trade though…trade the Atlanta Spirit for a no.1 meal, supersized, with a coke!!!

By Jay

January 18, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

The trade would be great. But I doubt Salim is enough value for Luke. Maybe toss in a 2nd round pick…or trade our Indiana pick from this upcoming draft. But even if this trade did go down…

“I also think that inserting a point guard who can excel in the transition game with the Hawks’ Fab Four could be a potentially devastating lineup”

…small problem with this. Who is going to play center and power forward? This lineup would be explosive in transition…and nothing more. Josh Smith can do ok rebounding against more traditional power forwards…but not centers. And power forwards would eat Marvin for breakfast. We would get killed defensively on the low post with this lineup. And did you see the defense ‘Zen put up on Garnett? Thats not happening with Marvin.

That “fab 4” lineup works with either a center (currently ‘Zen or Zaza?) or power forward (Shelden or Solomon could get away with it) playing the 5.

And the best question is…do we really want to get rid of Salim? We already have THREE point guards on the roster. Luke would be an upgrade, but I dont think he would make that much more of a difference over a healthy Speedy or Lue.

If we want to see the “fab 4” excel, give them a dominant center. Because otherwise when the fab 4 isnt in transition, its an ugly jump-shooting team.

By Matt from Hotlanta Hawks

January 18, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this

Why not Salim for Ray Allen straight up? Seriuosly, Knight could barely get cash for Al Harrington, how do you think anybody is going to get suckered into a favorable deal for Salim? “The Dream” has been playing better as of late (5 assists and no 3 point attempts last night), but his value in the league is limited. Ask Dan Dickou about his career outlook.

@cowa: Since when are shooters at a premium? I thought it was guys that can play defense and pass!

@JohnGTFan: Give up on Nazr! The man is averaging 7.1 and 5.7 for his career, and I think that’s what we can expect for him. I don’t think he fits in this offense. He might be an upgrade over Lorezen, but it’s not worth giving up Salim.

I think the Hawks need to find a way to get Jarret Jack on this team. He would be their perfect point guard, and he knows the streets a little better!

By Clyde

January 18, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this

What we need to be doing is trying to find a way to get rid of one of our veteran point guards.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Logical

January 18, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

“Salim doesn’t fit here so let’s get him somewhere he can play.”

…because he’ll get lots of minutes behind Ray Allen.

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Jarrett Jack the PG of the future in Portland. He became the starter before his injury, so he isn’t going anywhere.

By JohnGTFan

January 18, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me wrong, would love to see Jack in a Hawks uniform, but don’t see that as a possibility.

By Tyger

January 18, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Why trade Salim, with his tremendous upside, for a marginal player, when he is finally starting to show his promise?

I agree that we could use a bigger guard that can shoot and defend like Luther Head, Jamal Crawford, Ben Gordon, Jarvis Hayes or Mo Pete.

Trade Speedy and his $7M. Teams will be wary of Speedy but his degenerative knee condition is future cause for injury settlement for teams looking for salary cap relief. i.e. Dallas, Miami, NY

I would send Batista to the NBDL for refinement. Once the pieces come together, there’s always a role for a goon that hustles the way he does.

If the past few games have shown anything, it is that we dont need Speedy!!! We need the $7M back off the cap.

By tONYg

January 18, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

WHAT IS IT GOING TO TAKE FOR PEOPLE TO REALIZE THAT POINT GUARDS ARE OVERRATED!!! WE DONT NEED ONE!! WE NEED A BIG GUY DOWN LOW WHO CAN BE PHYSICAL AND THATS IT!! THIS TEAM GOT OVER ITS ROUGH SPOT AND CAN STILL MAKE THE PLAYOFFS!!!GO HAWKS!!

By J. Shuttlesworth

January 18, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

No one wants Salim or Batista.

Also, Ridnour signed a $19.5 million contract extension two months ago!!! End of story, he’s not getting traded anywhere.

By Bobby Thigpen

January 18, 2007 01:17 PM | Link to this

I think the problem with this whole idea is that Billy has handcuffed us with two undersized point guards to start with in Speedy and Lue. Adding a guy like Ridnour, who I think most would agree is a superior point to those two, would make a ton of sense….if we hadn’t already thrown big $$ at Speedy to do the exact same thing, which is to play point guard.

I think going after a Ridnour would be like Billy sending a memo to the ownership group saying, “Please Fire Me .” He should make that trade, but you have to wonder when job security takes a front seat to what is best for the team.

I think you try to get a true center with a trade. There are no impact guys out there, but why not keep building and see if you can find a part that fits (like Milicic in Orlando or Diop in Dallas). I like A. Foyle, who is older but who could come cheap from the Warriors or one of the guys in Washington (Thomas or Haywood) or Elson from San Antonio or Petro from Seattle.

Just putting a 7’ body in the paint on defense should make it so much easier for Josh and the boys to play half-court defense.

By mavid

January 18, 2007 01:25 PM | Link to this

LOVE that deal..

if that was actually on the table (which I doubt it ever will be), BK would be a fool not to jump at it (uh-oh, he is a fool… doh)

ive been saying that we need an up-tempo pg ever since we drafted the 2 joshes

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 01:32 PM | Link to this

this was my last post from the previous blog….and don’t be surprised (not that we would tho) to see BK sign DIJON for the remainder of the season or bring in another swingman!!! with JC gettin’ significant mins at the point, BK has the backcourt he envisioned at the beginnin’ of last season!!! it’s just reversed with JJ at 2 now and JC at the 1. and don’t be surprised if JC is moved to the startin’ PG if they find some points off the bench to replace his (ie…DIJON or ???). JC will be rewarded with more than PT for his play and professionalism before season’s end!! you heard it here first!!!LOL

i think it applies here too. ‘cause as flawed as some will say BK’s logic is, i think he’ll go after a BIG before a PG. his main PG is now CHILLS and they will not pull him off the floor nor should they. and there are already 3 backup PGs at this point (SPEEDY, IVEY, LUE). so look for DIJON to get PT and a full contract or BK will find another swingman. i really think he goes after that or a BIG before a PG. i ain’t sayin’ it’s right. i’m just sayin’ this is what i think BK will do!!??!!!

By Barry

January 18, 2007 01:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all”

Sekou, you are CRAZY man. Why in the world would you want to trade these players. The only thing that has hurt the HAWKS this year is INJURY. Stop pannicking like a little SISSY and stay the course with this current team. They are starting to get healthy that is why we have a 3 game winning streak. You haven’t seen anything yet when they are all clicking. Getting new players at this time would cause a loss of chemistry and games, which the HAWKS cannot afford at this time. The learning curve for these new players will be 2 months to say the least. That is right in the middle of playoof fights in conferences. We cannot afford to to teach a group of new players anyhting right now. I can see 1 player. Maybe a big man,but that is it. The HAWKS have the talent, barring injuries, to make it deep into the playoff. Making wholesale changes and bringing in groups of NEW players at this time is STUPID. Anybody that knows basketball will tell you. Sta pat and stick with our current “RUN AND GUN” Hawks.

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! This is a SECRET among us HAWK fans. TELL EVERBODY!!!!!

See You at the game.

Ringold

By ConyersDawg

January 18, 2007 02:09 PM | Link to this

I know I’m not a regular here but I do read.

I wanted to chime in on a few things.

The starting line up with Lorez has been great. He is playing good ball and defending well.

Why is J-Smoov not getting more all star recog? His defense has been unbelievable as well as his offense. He has been the key to the resurgence.

Don’t jump on the band wagon now, but the guys Knight has drafted are really starting to come through. Say what you want about Speedy but he plays good D and was really playing well toward the end.

The key to last night was taking care of the ball. 1 turnover i believe in the second half.

By dave

January 18, 2007 02:18 PM | Link to this

Before the game last night, salim and Joe were playing some 1 on 1 on the wing and he was making just as many shots as Joe. I would hold on to him and try to trade for an enforcer. Good to talk to you last night Sekou. Catch you next year.

By Dan

January 18, 2007 02:19 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

That sounds like a decent trade, if it were possible. My only problem with it is a fear of trading Salim. A few weeks ago I would have been more willing to trade him. However, he is growing on me a bit. I am just afraid that he will get traded and then go somewhere else and blow up.

The other end of that, though, is that a PG would be a huge help. I do not think Ridinour would be the complete bust that Speedy is. He would actually help this team. Tough call….

Also, do teams really want Batista? We always here how tough he is, but that never translates into playing time.

By the way, if I were GM, I would be willing to trade Speedy away for a bag of balls. The balls could be the special ones that Stern put in, too. You know, the ball they don’t use anymoere. That is how much I value Speedy.

By tyger

January 18, 2007 02:31 PM | Link to this

By Tyger

January 17, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a 100 times - Hawks better off w/o Speedy.

It may be harsh, but results speak for themselves, just look at the record, when he plays vs. when he doesnt.

Mgt. has to be honest, admit mistakes and correct them, anything less is foolishness.

And look at what’s happening:

1) He didnt practice all summer; 2) He’s not practicing now; 3) Yet, he starts - A.I. he aint; 4) Sure recipe for disaster; 5) They dont miss him, they miss Lue; 6) 2-0 w/o Speedy; 7) Play Ivey/Salim, they’ve earned it.

The Hawks are not good enough to play politics, they have to play as a team. To be a team, they have to put in the work. Those that work are rewarded.

Although, they’ve heard it many times, they dont understand the “politics of business” - they’ve never had jobs!

They do understand the most basic principle - which is if you work hard you play. And thats what’s been wrong, they preached to them hard work, then lied, and stuck that lil’ bum in the starting lineup. And it went downhill from there.

By HB Ando

January 18, 2007 02:43 PM | Link to this

Geez, only in Atlanta…..The Hawks can’t even lose right. Someone tell me the point of winning just enough games to miss the playoffs AND give up a lottery pick to the Suns.

Cowa, this is funny: “Forston is 10 times the player Batista is. He just doesn’t get along with his current coach. “….or any other coach he’s ever had, or the league, or his teammates. He’s a cancer and a thug. He does one thing well (well two, if you count taking out other teams’ players with cheap shots) and that’s rebound. At least Shelden can set a pick and hit the occasional 18 footer.

On to point guards. Imagine my disgust, to read that Jack should be the guy we seek, when Billy passed on going after him two drafts ago, and so many people here suggested he wasn’t a starting caliber talent, all last year. Imagine my chagrin to read so many folks calling for Ridnour, who lost his job to Watson, who we could have had in a trade for Al, making exactly what we’re paying Speedy to spend the rest of his career in the IR. This is the same Watson who so many here panned, as a talentless, life-time back up (not unlike the Speedster, only with an actual 3-point shot). Now he’s taken Ridnour’s job, and we NEED Ridnour.

The lack of foresight, by this franchise, and many of its fans, is simply befuddling. You’ve got to see these players, and their upside, before they emerge as legitimate, to make deals for them. I spent all of last season talking about guys like these, that projected to evolve into legitimate players. And we’ve done nothing. After years of ignoring the PG position, Billy went and got a guy who can’t shoot, and can’t stay healthy, and who’s never maintained a starter’s role for a complete season. And then people are surprised when he can’t stay healthy and he can’t shoot. All you had to do was go look at his injury history and his career shooting percentage to know. What was Billy looking at when he coughed up almost $30 million bucks of the Spirit’s money?

How does this man keep his job?

And folks are now talking about the need to get a true center, to anchor the small, quick, forward-based lineup we have. Duh! What do you think we were yelling about, when folks like me said, BEFORE the draft, that we needed to trade down and pick up a Patrick O’Bryant, to develop a true center prospect? So what if O’Bryant isn’t ready this year. Neither are the Hawks. But at least we’d have a legitimate post prospect, unlike now.

I know there are some other bad GM’s out there, but Billy is bottom-five, hands down. And this team’s record will be, too. And my worst fears, documented right here, since August of ‘05, become increasingly likely: we’ll be giving a pick in the 4-7 range to one of the top-five teams in the NBA. And they’ll be selecting a franchise big man, the big man we need for a chance at future respectability.

This team can’t even lose right. Pathetic. When does Belkin get the teams? He simply cannot do any worse.

By honest_abe

January 18, 2007 02:49 PM | Link to this

he didnt’ practice all summer? guy broke his damn finger!

he isn’t practicing now dude’s got creaky knees and bad back.

man if it was like the guy is sitting at the end of the bench just chillen while everyone else is busting their a* off… i can understand some of your frustrations. but how can you criticize someone while their hurt.

people compare speedy to ed hartwell. maybe that comparison will have some validity if he misses 90% of the games!!!!

By HB Ando

January 18, 2007 02:51 PM | Link to this

And Nazr? Nazr IS Wright! He’s been a total bust in Detroit. He’s just another lazy, underperforming, overpaid big man, in the NBA. He’s not as productive, or as good as Zaza, who would be a back up on 25 teams in this league.

Nothing has changed about the most obvious way to build this team. And it can’t happen until the rookie deals have expired. You’re going to have to make a choice between Josh and Marvin, sign them to an appropriate long-term deal, and trade them for a legitimate center or point guard, with similar upside as whomever you choose to trade. It was true when I was predicting it this summer. It remains true today. If you could trade either for a point guard, with star potential, or at least upper-tier potential, and simply manage to tank this season and keep the top-3 pick, this team has a chance, A CHANCE, for a future. Draft one of the big men projected to go at the top of the draft next summer. And now you have a lineup with potential. Get a new GM and a new coach, and in about 3 years, this will be a fun place to come and talk about the Hawks.

These Hawks are going no where. And it’s painful, ney, criminal, just how agonizingly long they’ve they’ve drawn this franchise’s suicide.

Makes me sick……

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 02:53 PM | Link to this

ANDRO, i think ANDO posted under your sig!!LOL

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 02:59 PM | Link to this

ANDO, you might wanna get over the ‘tank’ thing. ain’t gonna happen!!

By tyger

January 18, 2007 03:05 PM | Link to this

from Larry Coon’s Salary Cap facts

Sometimes teams get locked into long-term financial commitments from which they later want to extricate themselves. Typically this is when they have high-priced and long-term contracts, but have no real hope of competing for a title before those contracts run out.

This means that some players who aren’t necessarily trade-worthy from a basketball standpoint become valuable trade commodities from a financial standpoint. A competing team might be able to parlay mediocre players with ending contracts into a much better basketball player, as long as they are willing to assume a long-term financial obligation.

One such trade occurred in 2004-05 when Golden State traded Speedy Claxton, Dale Davis and cash to New Orleans for Baron Davis. With this trade Golden State was able to upgrade its roster, while New Orleans was able to unload Baron Davis’ contract, which had four years and $63 million remaining.

Then the Hawks turn around and give that mediocre player $7M to watch.

By honest_abe

January 18, 2007 03:08 PM | Link to this

heh ando comes out of hibernation!

i, too was in your camp ando, calling for the hawks to tank the season. but after losing 10 of 11 they’re only 4 games out of the 8th playoff spot. playing in the sorry eastern conference is it that ludicrous to believe that the hawks just might make it to the playoffs this year?

which is more important to you? that the hawks make the playoff or the hawks gamble at the #1 pick? so many different variables can happen between now and then that i dont’ think it’s prudent to bank your franchise on the possibility of retaining a #1 pick. what if they do tank the season get the 2nd most ping pong balls and drop to 4th? what then? no i think it’s more important for this group of youngsters and the 10 hawks fans that this team win NOW! they’ve shown flashes of being able to play some good ball. now is the time to show more consistency and the ability to close down the stretch. this team continues to grow and although they do have some glaring holes in their lineup this team can and should compete in the eastern conference!

and i’m not completely positive on this ando but i think when i ragged on speedy last year,(maybe i’m wrong) but i belive you were one of the first people to defend him… once again.. if i’m wrong sorry.

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 03:23 PM | Link to this

ABE, i just wanna see they REALLY COMPETE!!! no matter how flawed the team is, the coach is, ownership is, i just want them to compete!!! and however they land record-wise after that is ok by me!! i’ve seen enough examples in my lifetime of what happens when someone tries to control fate (ie…the landing of the ping pong ball)!!! you can almost rest assured that the attempted manipulation will bring about ALL that you hoped it WOULD NOT!!

By kaiser

January 18, 2007 04:01 PM | Link to this

I dont think this trade will happen,if i did happen, that would be cool.

By Volman

January 18, 2007 04:10 PM | Link to this

Seriously.. We can speculate.. We can’t sit around and hope the Hawks “tank” the season and pray for a top 3 pick.. Play the season out, and what happens happens. This team isn’t going to change overnight into a contender. Give them some time. Make some off-season moves and pray for the best

By Astro Joe

January 18, 2007 04:14 PM | Link to this

I had to put my “Astro” cape back on to address the HB Comet that now comes around 17 years (thank God).

Ando you’re still yelling at the rain. The Hawks win, you say they should tank. The Hawks lose, you say the team is poorly constructed. Marvin, Smith & Childress play well, you say one has to go. Every regular blogger knows that Al was traded for non-basketball assets (at the direction of the owners) yet you continue to act like BK pocketed the trade exception himself.

And by the way, how’s your “emerging star” working out up in Philly. Head and shoulders better than Childress, huh? (Yes, Deng certainly is having a breakout year, but Iggy is playing as consistently as a rookie in the league). Where’s your “I love Foye” rant these days? O’Bryant?

Either you come on line to trade blows or you should stay off. These “drive-bys” should be beneath you.

By Andy

January 18, 2007 04:26 PM | Link to this

I think a trade should be made but I am not sure that Salim is the answer. I was thinking more of the great Tyron Lue and Lorenzen for maybe say a Brendan Haywood, and Jarvis Hayes. What would we have to give up to get a young athletic big to help Zaza. Maybe Hilton Armstrong or Patrick O’Bryant I know I will hear flack over Lue but we are stockpiled there now with him, Salim, and Ivey who has been playing well as of late. Lue takes to many jumpers doesnt drive at all and refuses to push the ball and doesnt get the offense started until late in the shot clock and that forces the other Hawks to take way to many jump shots. It will also help Woody sub because his rotations are HORRIBLE at times!

By newkid

January 18, 2007 04:29 PM | Link to this

Joe, c’mon please don’t re-start the thing with ANDO. If that’s not criminally ‘disturbing the peace’, then I don’t know what is.

By honest_abe

January 18, 2007 04:34 PM | Link to this

newkid… it’s all in good fun. if those two can’t trade barbs, then this blog becomes what it has been the past few months. boring!

mykhalc… i feel ya buddy. too many games and seasons where i’ve watched this team barely win 20 games. i’m ready for this team to try and at least make a playoff run. as ridiculous as that sounds.. it’s not that improbable considering how bad the rest of the eastern conference is!

By A Thinking Fan

January 18, 2007 04:56 PM | Link to this

HB/AJ Happy times are here again! Where’s DOC/Flash?

By The Flash

January 18, 2007 05:04 PM | Link to this

Andoman, I thought you was Belkin. Showin no rust, my man, bringing it with a little less, how do you say it, heat, and thus more convincingly.

Honestman, what a difference a year makes, is all I can say. Have liked what you’ve had to say and how you say it. While I feel Andoman’s pain, and hear well the dire warning about the pick, have to say, honestman, “Yeah, but there’s something nice about three wins in a row.” I know deep down inside, Ando, you are saying the same damn thing.

By Darryl C.

January 18, 2007 05:10 PM | Link to this

We do need a point asap, but I was thinking along the lines of Jason Hart. He is unhappy in Sacramento and he did I good job with the Bobcats when he was starting. Just one man’s opinion.

By For it

January 18, 2007 05:12 PM | Link to this

Sekou, go ahead and do it. I’m giving you the authority. If Billy gives you any lip, send him to me.

By HB Ando

January 18, 2007 05:24 PM | Link to this

Joe, I didn’t even come around while they were losing, because I don’t like kicking a team when they’re down. But a couple of scruffy-a* wins, and people like you think we’re back on track. I’ve used the phrase before, and I now use it again: cognitive dissonance. Hawks fans are so thoroughly downtrodden, that a brief respite from their losing ways and all of the sudden we’re a force in the East.

And on Childress vs. Iggy, you’re still a lone ranter. How about this? I’ll ask Sekou who the majority of GM’s would take between the two. If he says Childress, I’ll buy us two tickets to an upcoming game. If he says Iggy, you buy. Let me know if you’re in.

Nobody thought Foye was going to get minutes right away, when both James and Davis were getting paid on big contracts. But he’s been getting more and more minutes and he was the center piece of Philly’s talks with Minny about Iverson. Childress is still going to be a career back up here. That is until Johnson forces his way out of town, ala Vinsanity.

I’ll take O’Bryant all day over Shelden. Does the word “upside” mean anything to you, you stubborn old goat?! Tell me again how Shelden fits in with a front line of Marvin and Josh, when he’s only able to play the four.

This franchise is a freakin’ train wreck, and some how I’m more villianous than the A-hole that put this team together. As a fan of the game, I’m feeling a serious case of blaming the victim.

Joe, you flip-flop more than John Kerry (and I am not a Bush fan at all). So, just to set the record straight: do you believe we are better off with Billy Knight as the GM of the future, and Mike Woodson, as the coach? Do you believe that this ownership group is best-suited to right this listing (listless) ship?

Abe, I’m not hoping for the first pick. I’ll take any of the first three, over a 3 and out from the eighth seed. There would be nothing to build on, from a continuity standpoint, as Woodson and Knight will likely be gone this summer. New management and new coaches means a do-over. I’ll take just about any of the top-six big men variously rated in the top-3 for mock drafts. I’ll take Noah. I’ll take McRoberts. I’ll take Durant and trade Marvin (all day long). I’ll take Wright, out of North Carolina, who will live up to the hype of what Marvin was supposed to be. I’ll take Oden, even if he’s got a ways to go, offensively. Because he’ll be a top-five center, immediately, on the defensive end, which is what this team needs, based on the way Billy has constructed it.

Has Doc not been around either? No Flash? How about Ray? I guess I’m not the only one who just gave up.

If for no other reason than to jostle with Joe, I’ll try to make my visits regular. Joe, if the Aniken name is a Star Wars reference, should I change my name to Darth Andro?

By A Thinking Fan

January 18, 2007 05:39 PM | Link to this

Ah Flash! Whatz-up Dude? Com’on DOC make it happen…

By The Flash

January 18, 2007 05:41 PM | Link to this

Doc and Ray have been around plenty, much more than me, Ando. Now, Thinkingman seems to have had some second thoughts, which would be his first, if you know what I mean. (If that don’t get a rise out of him, I fear the worst).

BTW, if I were you, I’d back off of this thing of yours about Chill. If not, let me know, do you like regular or one of those special kinds of mustard. The guy is great. BTW, name be a contender that would take your Iggy over Chill. SA, no; Ph, no: Dallas, hell no; Detroit, ditto; Utah, next question. You should take the bet Joe, I just gave Sekou his answer!

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 05:47 PM | Link to this

fellas, checkin’ in to see if it really happened…HAWKS win by 17 pts??? on the road??? don’t wake me!!LOL

ANDO, you’ve got a LIMITED time to call CHILDRESS a career backup here!! good or bad, BK’s vision of JJ and JC in the backcourt is heeeeeeeeeeere!! odd man out, IMHO, SPEEDY!! and DOC and RAY are both still around and postin’. good to see you and ANDRO back!!LOL

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 05:48 PM | Link to this

DOC went skiin’!! lucky dawg!!

By Harry Hawk

January 18, 2007 05:59 PM | Link to this

The fact of the matter is that the Hawks will end up with around 30 wins and won’t be keeping their lottery pick. At this point, I’d rather see them make a run at the playoffs than hand over the 4th pick to the Suns. True Hawks fans know this team is not going to be bad enough to get a top-3 pick. In fact, true Hawks fans know that the Hawks could lose the rest of their games and they would STILL fall out of the top three picks of the lottery, thus making us want to gouge our eyes out with hot pokers. Look, Ando’s right about how stupid our front office is. I can’t argue with him on that because I know he’s right. I also know that the Hawks would be better served to growing up and competing for a playoff spot this year, flawed as the roster may be. There are so many young guys on the team that success can’t hurt. After all, people might start showing up to games if they think the team has a shot, no matter how inept the organization is. Getting some fans out to games to support the team (even in a crappy Eastern Conference playoff “chase” that will be very ugly) would be a good first step.

By HB Ando

January 18, 2007 06:18 PM | Link to this

From HoopsHype:

“As for practice today, the players went about an hour, with Danny Fortson even on the floor. I have to wonder if the team keeps Andre Brown around, and if Fortson is not able to be dealt by the trade deadline, if the team simply waives Fortson in mid-February. Tacoma News Tribune”

Such is the market for Danny Fortson’s services. Why don’t we trade a player for him about a week before the Sonics would otherwise waive him. That would almost be as stupid as waiving a player that another team was willing to trade you for. Wait, isn’t that what we did with Tony Delk last year?

By michael m.

January 18, 2007 06:19 PM | Link to this

ando, i told you in the offseason that childress would be a serious part of the mix. you thought he wouldnt even see the floor. he’s getting about 35 min a night. injuries aside, my prediction of 25 a game vs. your prediction of 10 minutes a game for chill proves you are no nostradamus. you’ve always kind of disliked childress. and while at the time i wanted 1. deng, 2. igoudala 3. childress, i got over it and moved on. their games are bunched much closer than i originally thought would be the case.

o’bryant over shelden? no way! p.o. may never amount to anything at all whereas shelden can be a 14 and 10 guys for years to come. he brings a lot of intangibles and in that way, will become a role player on par with battier (albeit as a big, not a swingman).

and tanking this season? look, man, bk screwed up by not getting more protection on the pick - should have been lottery protected last year, top 10 this year, top 3 in 08, unprotected in 09 - and i believe the continued wrangling this summer over the pacer pick’s protection shows that he realized he messed up by not being as exacting with colangelo. anyway, even if we lose the remainder of our games, the percentages favor us still getting the #4 pick. you can’t play the game that way. i don’t think we are making the playoffs, but hopefully we will combine enough ping pong balls (probably around the 6th most balls) and A LOT OF LUCK to get us in the top 3. probably isn’t gonna work out that way, but tanking isn’t a realistic option. i will say, the losses nowadays at least have a potential benefit and so they don’t sting quite so much. or have i just gone numb to the whole debacle?

let’s all just hope our young guys continue to show chemistry playing together. and quit it with the Trade Marvin talk. foolish foolish foolish. and coming from the same mouths who wanted to trade josh smith during the first month of the season. you understand that he’s young, right. this is the first year he’s even started since high school. sure, he’s disappointing me right now, but i knew it was gonna take a second for him to learn how to finish around the rim against the big boys. he had problems with that even in college. summer league was a start, the injury was a setback, but let’s not give up on the kid. even sekou is throwing out stupid trades, at least this ridnour one makes sense and brings a real positive. just hearing the name anthony johnson makes me cringe. can you say journeyman?

By Jambazy

January 18, 2007 06:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t have names of who we should trade or trade for, but if we look at this scenario the expendable players would be Batista, Slava, Dijon, and Ivey(in that order) because Ivey is familiar with our style, and as we have seen may need to spell out the PG position. What we are missing is a C and PG/SG. If we go out and get a pure PG then what do we do with the ones we have once they are healthy. We also do not know what speedy can do for the team yet. So that leaves Dijon, Slava and Batista. There are no centers to be had with the price tag they command these days. But really who would trade for our list. They haven’t played enought to have good trade value. So getting Ridnour is out of the question because he is not a solid PG/SG with an emphasis on SG to spell JJ(Although he got mad skills). Salim does that so he isn’t going anywhere…..Plus his trade value is not at a high as of yet. I don’t see any trade unless its for a PG/SG who can be had for any of those players. Or a project center. Hawksville city

By Steve T

January 18, 2007 06:26 PM | Link to this

OK, everyone keep yelling get a point guard. I have a question. How many point guards have won NBA championships. Has AI won a championship? Has Jason Kidd won a championship? There are not that many Point guards like those two. I would rather have a good big man that could shot 60%, rebound 12 boards a game, block 3 shots a game, and score 16-20 points a game. A guy like this will put the hawks over the top.

By hawkfromhinesville

January 18, 2007 06:29 PM | Link to this

I LOVE THIS TEAM…GET SPEEDY BACK AND WE CAN SAY ‘PLAYOFFS’…GO HAWKIES!!!

By HB Ando

January 18, 2007 06:29 PM | Link to this

Hawk, when you strip away all the blog bluster, that’s a pretty fair assessment of the situation. Young players to need to get the taste of winning, or develop a nasty habit of mailing it in. I just know that this draft is viewed as one of the strongest in the last few decades. And we’re really bad. And a top-3, combined with another pick at around 20, could really lend to the depth of this roster. And I know Joe is going to say, rightfully so, that he can’t stomach an even younger team. But those picks, or the players we obtain, are assets for trading for a little veteran help. A top-3 selection gives this franchise way more options to maneuver, than not. And beyond the idea that young players need a taste of success, to build off of, I don’t see any other value in an eighth seed. Additional revenues, from fan support, will not be re-invested into the roster. I stand by my opinion that this is a lame duck administration, and expectations of creative, or committed, moves, by this ownership group, are simply unlikely.

Flash, brother, I’ll double up and take your bet on Chills vs. Iggy, as well.

By Steve T

January 18, 2007 07:06 PM | Link to this

Let us look at the numbers. You may find that both are about even. Deng is playing 31 min, shooting 53% from the field, 33% from the 3, 75% from the stripe. He is averaging 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assist, 1.2 steals, 0.6 blocks, and 18.0 points.

Chill is playing 35 minutes, shooting 54% from the field, 42% from the 3, and 83% from the stripe. He is averaging 6.9 rebs, 1.5 assist, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks, and 13.8 points.

By Anakin Joe

January 18, 2007 07:37 PM | Link to this

Yes, it is a Star Wars reference as I am slowly moving to the dark side. No doubt that BK and Woody are bad for this team. (But not nearly as bad as our rancid owners). That doesn’t mean that each and every thing they have done in their tenure has been bad. Ivey over Duhon was stupid. His refusal to draft a PG is a legendary mistake. But I’m not putting Childress in that category and never will. I would have chosen Deng personally (and Jameer over Smith). But Deng is a tier 3 kind of player, like Richard Jefferson and Al Harrington. They will not likely make more than 1 All-Star appearance in their careers. Nothing to get all bent out of shape about. Childress and Iggy are very comparable. GMs may prefer Iggy because he may sell more tickets (flash), coaches will prefer Childress because he is consistent and does many things quite well.

Keep yelling at the rain. When it stops, let me know, I’m sure you’ll take full credit.

By Chris

January 18, 2007 07:46 PM | Link to this

After watching bits of the game last night Salim isn’t a bad point guard when you put him in the game and tell him not to shoot every time he touches the ball. Look this season is a wash. Send Batista to the development league, start Salim at the point and start Soloman Jones at center.

Salim,JJ,Marvin,Josh Smith and Jones would be an interesting starting 5 that has some definite upside.

Zaza,Sheldon,Childress,Dijon and Lue is not a bad second group with some upside.

By Chris D'

January 18, 2007 07:55 PM | Link to this

Speaking of lets make a deal does anyone else find the Indiana - Golden State deal an interesting one from the Hawks point of view. Al Harrington ends up going to Golden State for some of the same pieces that they offered us.
I have a feeling that some how this deal will end up being another reason for us to criticize BK. I am not sure how it will work out but…stay tuned.

By Jambazy

January 18, 2007 08:03 PM | Link to this

I don’t think Billy had any intention of drafting high in this draft(ever). His plan may have been to build through the draft the last three years only. You can tell by the trade of JJ(Giving up the picks). There is no intention of going younger than we already are(wouldn’t be healthy). I am sure he had taken into consideration how “deep” this draft would be when trading for JJ the Hawks centerpiece. Going forward the Hawks will be looking for proven players…Not necessarily old timers(vets. We have about 3/4 players who can be waived/let go with minimal loss. Picking up free Agents and or disgruntled players(disgruntled is a harsh word) becomes easier. The trade of Al definitely showed we didn’t need to pick up any trades and or very high picks. I don’t think mgmt is stupid, but they tread carefully. They want to fill the seats first and foremost and that takes winning consistently. How that is done …….is way past our expertise. You just have to trust that the GM and owners are on the same page….I am sure they are!!!!

By Jay

January 18, 2007 08:57 PM | Link to this

I find it funny that everyone is saying to trade Batista. If he cant crack the Hawks rotation (one of the worst w/l teams in the nba with low rebounds/points in paint #s) what makes you think another team is gonna want him? You think he isnt good enough to play here but he would be somewhere else?

Then again, we’ve seen Knightmare’s touch with Tony Delk and Diaw.

By TLS

January 18, 2007 08:59 PM | Link to this

Anyone noticed that the two Joshes have only played 9 games together this season and the Hawks are 7-2 in those games?

By mykhalc

January 18, 2007 09:27 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, nice article on JS!!!

By JB

January 18, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

I like this trade a lot. Speedy may be a great player when he’s playing, but that means nothing if he’s going to sit for long stretches & screw up the chemistry. It doesn’t really matter whether he’s slacking or has a real injury—either way, he’s become a liability. (Well, I guess it DOES matter, from a character standpoint. But I’m not his pal or his wife, so I’ve got no dog in the fight.)

By Chris D'

January 18, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

THUG!!!

Former Braves second baseman Marcus Giles was escorted from San Diego’s Qualcomm Stadium during the Chargers’ playoff game Sunday against the New England Patriots after being involved in a fight, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

By vdunkndunk

January 18, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

Hawks are 7-2 with both Joshes playing, and we’re 4 games out of the playoffs, with back-to-back games against the Bobcats coming up. Hmmmm…it’s not impossible, y’all.

By ray

January 18, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

So, Andro returns vs. Anakin Joe…and basically all comers. Is Michael Buffer going to announce this one? Leeeet’s get ready to rummmmmbllllllle!

So Ando, had you been around, you would have seen that not all of us diehards have given up. No, I’m not saying I’m optimistic. However, I did reply to your ideas on the last blog. Even added in a friendly greeting and jab. And you missed it, sniff, sniff. Heh, heh! Oh, by the way …since you’re tanking the season, I don’t suppose you will want to continue partaking of those wonderful seats provided by JHan, hmmmm? Heh, heh, heh!

I don’t see much hope in retaining a top three draft pick, or below 8 or whatever if we are going to have the same GM, which could very easily mean the same draft mistakes. In this way, I don’t see a reason to tank the season. That whole theory only seems to work if you’ve got a different GM (and maybe coach too). I mean, you’d have to be banking on the idea that not only would the ownership battle be finished by then, with Belkin victorious…but you’d be banking on a different GM making a good, if not great draft selection. Once again, I ask is the current development of our “assets” worth such a gamble? For those of you who are down with tanking the season and have such a fine tuned knowledge of how to successfully run such an organization, understand one thing: I understand what you’re saying. The question is largely rhetorical. But the gamble seems to be a bit…thick, doesn’t it?

To me, a GM that will make a good selection at any and all slots is what is important here. Getting a top pick with a natural born fool making the pick does nothing for us. And remember, a natural born fool would not know a “no-brainer” if it bit him in the a$$.

By Trey

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

I agree with you but Salim is the only legitimate threat from long range coming off the bench. I would much rather see the Hawks take a hit and absorb some of Speedy’s salary and include him in a trade. Love the Ridnour idea. He would fit perfect.

By TFM

January 19, 2007 07:15 AM | Link to this

I absolutely agree, Ridinour can create his on shots and dish, both things the Hawks need. We would have a very young team that could constantly be on the attack, in the East, where most teams are not ready to deal with that style. Oh, if only!

By Anakin Joe

January 19, 2007 09:28 AM | Link to this

Ray, excellent point about the value of a great pick with the same GM. I still have questions about how many of these guys will actually come out this year. And we are already seeing the bloom come off the rose that was Joakim Noah. I’ve heard him compared to Varejao who was a 2nd round pick.

Clearly, we need to upgrade our talent but I still think that needs to be done with veterans and not more youth. If we end up with 2 more 1st rounders on this roster, we would likely continue to be the youngest team in the league (and I don’t view that as a good thing).

We need to show some signs of life and get to those 32-35 wins that most folk projected before the season started.

By HawkTime

January 19, 2007 09:33 AM | Link to this

All of you keep talking about trades. What about the one that makes sense. Keep the core of your team together, Joe, Sheldon, Josh, Marvin (Childress) and trade for Jason Kid a veteran leader (which we don’t have) and give them sloweee quackton with another player and draft pick. We just need a floor general out there and you will see the results in the standing and in the Seats…..

By The Flash

January 19, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Andoman, you think I’m a fool. I never said I’d bet MY MONEY against the MAN, only honestman’s.

Said it before, if you ain’t Belkin, you ought to be; I never met no professional GM, but you take this thing to a whole other level. That said, even great men make errors; you are wrong as rain about Chill (maybe not about where he was taken, but where he stands now, which is way tall, imo). Later.

By one66

January 19, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

BUY OUT SPEEDY “BUM KNEE” CLAXTON CONTRACT, THIS HAD TO BE ONE OF BILLY KNIGHTS WORST MISTAKES AND HE HAS MADE PLENTY MISTAKES

By honest_abe

January 19, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

flash: appreciate the kind words. you and i might not be as different as we first thought. only our view on ETAN..heh

hawks win tonight… and that’s some serious momentum folks. that win against minny was a beaut. watched it again last night and damn i was pumped. great to see the “fab 4” playing well. if marv starts to crank it up. this team really does present some interesting matchup problems for other teams.

jchill is the man! he’s the glue to this team. he hasn’t disappointed me one bit. he continues to grow and improve and thats all i can ask of him.

GOOOOO HAWKS!

By jamal

January 19, 2007 12:00 PM | Link to this

if the wreckin crew stays healthy(JJ,J-chill,and Josh Smith) we can improve this winning streak. i’m just scared that somebody like speedy will mess up the chemistry when/if he comes back.

By jamal

January 19, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

if the wreckin crew stays healthy(JJ,J-chill,and Josh Smith) we can improve this winning streak. i’m just scared that somebody like speedy will mess up the chemistry when/if he comes back.

By jamal

January 19, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

if the wreckin crew stays healthy(JJ,J-chill,and Josh Smith) we can improve this winning streak. i’m just scared that somebody like speedy will mess up the chemistry when/if he comes back.

By Shonda

January 19, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

JUST REPORTED ON “ESPN SPORTSCENTER”

AP MIAMI: Ron Mexico has just announced his defense team for the upcoming drug trial slated for later this month in Miami-Dade County. It appears Johnny Cochran is being dug up and airlifted so he can represent Ron in what is being called “Dream Team II”. Assisting Johnny will be Jesse Jackson, Cynthia McKinney, Rev Al Sharpton, F. Lee Bailey, Spike Lee and yes, none other than OJ.

Representatives from the Cochran Law firm have indicated that Johnny will “Pull Out The Race Card” and claim that Ron is a black athlete who is being falsely accused of all accusations. Ron as most corrupt black athletes who emulate “Gangsters” and “Gang Bangers” are not required to follow the same laws as the rest of society. Johnny will show that Ron had a rough upbringing so it cannot be his fault. This poor boy is only 26 years old and how could he be responsible for having failing grades in school, infecting innocent women with herpes, allowing his friends to carry/use drugs in a car registered to him, have multiply children out of wedlock, enjoy hanging out at hip-hop clubs all hours of the night during the NFL season, showing an obscene jester to his loyal fans of all colors, dressing up and representing himself to the public as a “thug,” running around town with posse members who have criminal records, and last but not lease, having to continually post bail to get his brother Marcus out of jail.

See Johnny will show that Ron is a wonderful “role model” to all kids of the world. Ron Mexico is Superman, Not Superfly!!. Hey its ok to do drugs kids, its ok to break the laws & rules of society, its so “Cool” and “Hip” to dress up and act just like Gang Bangers, Graffiti Artist, Rap Stars, and Thugs who carry guns and spill blood/violence in your neighborhoods; and hey, why should a kid need to read when we have video games.

“If the thug image don’t fit, than you must acquit”

In a surprising move it appears Johnny will introduce to the stand the following “Character Witnesses” to show that Ron is a good member of society, a law abiding citizen with high morals, character, and represents his team and the NFL as a total professional on and off the field. He will show that Ron has the up most respect for the game and to all those who preceded him. This list of well known and respected citizens will include, but not limited to: Terrell Owens, Dennis Rodman, Randy Moss, Charles Barkley, Ron Artest, Whiney Houston, Bobby Brown, Ray Lewis Flavor of Love, Carmelo Anthony, Eminem, Queen Latifah, Kanye West, Darryl Strawberry, Snoop Dogg, Ice T, Allen Iverson, Michael Irvin, Ricky Williams, Tim Robbins, members of the Ziggy Marley band, membes of Ron’s posse, P-Funk, Terrance Moore, Barry Bonds, Howard Stern, Cheech and Chong, Ted Kennedy, Vanialla Ice and without saying, Marcus Vick. Videos of Tupac Skakur, Mizelli and Notorious BIG will be shown during intermission.

In another developing story, CNN has reported that the Miami-Dade County DA office is compiling a list of “Character Witnesses” themselves whom they hope will show that no matter what the color of your skin may be or how you were raised; you and you alone are responsible for your actions and how one represents themselves, their family, and their employer in society. The DA will try to show how very very sad it is how a group of individuals (i.e. trash, hoodlums) can allow their race to always take tow steps back with every step forward. So far we have learned this character list consist of: Tiger Woods, Bill Lester, Hank Aaron, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Terry Holt, Marvin Harrison, UN President Annan, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Oprah, Warren Dunn, Senator Obama, Doug Williams, Bill Cosby, Steve McNair, Steve McNabb, Carl Lewis, Mike Singletary, Deacon Jones, The wife of the great Arthur Ashe, Sylvester Crooms, Lovie Smith, Michael Jordan, Denzall Washington, Lynn Swann, Jerry Rice, Serena Williams, Ali, Tony Dungy, Mark Jackson, Desmond Howard, Isaiah Thomas, Grant Hill, Derrick Jeter, Edwin Moses, Bo Jackson, Barry Sanders, Reggie Miller, Oscar Roberson and Jackie Joyner-Kersee.

By sam

January 19, 2007 07:06 PM | Link to this

Salim is one of the best players the hawks have on their team. They do not play him to his assets. Give the man some plays in the rotation that are given to Joe Johnson. Can’t you see a shooter needs the ball. He is not a nut, he is just a shooter, watch him in the rotation and see if he get’s the ball. Just a thought.

By Khalkutta

January 19, 2007 08:30 PM | Link to this

I really like the idea of getting a point guard (that can play more than 30-40 games per year. I must mention a nickname i heard for Mr. Claxton “Speedy Recovery”. I love the idea that we finally “tried” to sign a PG. Since we let Terry go, and apparently our GM is allergic to greatness (see Chris Paul). We must do something. I got it, instead of Salim, we send Mr Knight! He’s our biggest liabilty, examine our picks, he may’ve picked Marvin out of spite.

By Slam

January 19, 2007 08:41 PM | Link to this

sam Salim is a good player not a great player. He just doesn’t fit and is very frustrated on our team. Speedy was a bad idea as well. We need a new young talent and a 5 year talent on our team as guards. Also, the center spot has to be changed. Spend some money and get a seat filling center. We screwed up when we let Curry go to New York. Maybe we need another GM?

By Rev. M.M

January 22, 2007 09:23 AM | Link to this

A good trade for the Hawks would be to trade L. Wright and Speedy to Detroit for Nazr Mohammed.