Hawks

By J. Shuttlesworth

February 21, 2007 03:04 PM | Link to this

Z,

You give these guys too much credit. “106-84 back-cracking?” More like 106-81 face-squashing.

By HB Ando

February 21, 2007 03:06 PM | Link to this

By HB Ando

February 21, 2007 02:59 PM | Link to this

Since there was some ongoing discussion about how important Nash’s absence was, during the Hawks defeat of the Suns, as well as similar talk about the impact the Clips not having Brand, meant to our victory in LA, please refer to last nights’ 25-point Suns victory, over the Clips. Both Nash AND Brand were playing.

The idea that the Suns are so deep that it was inconsequential to the outcome, when we beat them and Nash didn’t play, remains one of the more ludicrous I’ve heard espoused here this season.

If you’ve ever heard of a baseball pitcher referred to as having a “million dollar arm and a ten cent head”, then that’s as good a description as you can make of the Suns WITHOUT Nash in uniform.

Those three road wins, with no Nash, Baron/JRich or Brand, serve as clear balancers for the early losses that some attribute to injuries of our less valuable parts, like Marvin and Speedy. For most teams, injury-related losses balance out over the course of a season. Almost every struggling team could point to key injuries and say, “we’re better than our record”. That’s just a bunch of BS.

Here’s a list of players/teams that have lost (or will have) significant time to critical injuries (or suspension) this year. All of them have a better record than us except for Memphis and Milwaukee:

Redd/Bucks Gasol/Grizz Richardson/Warriors Jamison/Wiz Yao/Houston Odom/Lakers Boozer/Jazz Lewis/Sonics Shaq/Miami Hill/Magic Peja/Hornets Paul/Hornets Melo/Nuggets Francis/Knicks Pierce/Celtics Kristic/Nets Davis/Warriors J.Williams/Heat (you think Speedy is even in HIS class?) Mo Williams/Bucks (10 games) Jefferson/Nets

Every one of those players has a greater role, or if viewed as a more impactful player, than either Marvin or Speedy. You can’t say the Hawks are better than their record unless you agree that everyone of those teams is equally better than their actual record, due to lost games by those key pieces. Injuries are part of the game, not excuses for another lottery-bound record.

I forgot Martin/Denver……..

By Clyde

February 21, 2007 03:15 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

SIT LORENZEN WRIGHT AND ZAZA DOWN AND PLAY SOLOMON JONES. WHEN HE CAN IN THE GAME HE WAS HUSTLING AND ATTEMPTING TO BLOCK SHOTS. LORENZEN WRIGHT AND ZAZA JUST WATCH PEOPLE GO RIGHT DOWN THE LANE.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By MICHAEL

February 21, 2007 03:41 PM | Link to this

BRING CENK AND ANDERSON OVER FROM EUROPE, THERE KICKIN BUTT.

By MICHAEL

February 21, 2007 03:44 PM | Link to this

BTW WHATS UP WITH TRADING FOR NATE AND FYE FROM N.Y., THATS WORTH A 1ST ROUND PICK..

By mykhalc

February 21, 2007 04:12 PM | Link to this

ANDO, i responded to you in the previous blog. but here’s my post…

By mykhalc

February 21, 2007 03:58 PM | Link to this

ANDO, alright man, you’re twistin’ it again!!

i said NOTHIN’ about it bein’ INCONSEQUENTIAL!!! keep my statements and perspective REAL!!!! i asked how many ALL-STARS or ALL-STAR worthy players were STILL in PHO lineup AFTER NASH went down??? most people, outside of us HAWKS fans, would still pick a PHO team minus NASH to beat the HAWKS…especially in PHO!! and the ONLY reason you would not now, is because you have the benefit of the game ALREADY havin’ been played. so we now know the outcome!!!

and i’ll go back to what BARKLEY said over the weekend about PHO. he said, he felt PHO, in his mind, probably had the deepest team in the league!! thus him complainin’ about D’ANTONI not playin’ his bench enough!! and i’ll take BARKLEY’s assesment and analysis over yours on this one (no matter how biased he might be for PHO)!!!

like VOLMAN said, the HAWKS have the MOST asterisks wins in the NBA (in some people’s minds, at least)

By mykhalc

February 21, 2007 04:04 PM | Link to this

and , OF COURSE, NASH makes a difference!!!! come on!!! geeesshhh!!!

By mykhalc

February 21, 2007 04:29 PM | Link to this

and i stand behind my statements that PHO has deeper and better coached team than the HAWKS!!! again, it’s a NO BRAINER!!!

PHO KNOWS HOW TO WIN AS A TEAM!! that would be most people’s analysis before we were able to WITNESS how they played without their leader!!! most people, IMHO, would have taken a PHO lineup minus NASH with BARBOSA and STILL felt they’d beat the HAWKS in PHO!!! WHY??? because we still DO NOT know HOW the HAWKS will play nite-in nite-out!!!

we’ve got the benefit of hindsight now!! NOW we know how PHO plays without NASH!!! and ANDO it’s just hard for me to believe that YOU would have analyzed it any differently if it weren’t for that hindsight!!!

By dap

February 21, 2007 04:43 PM | Link to this

SEKOU:

What is the status of CENK and ANDERSON? Are they ever gonna play for us? Would they contribute?

By mykhalc

February 21, 2007 05:01 PM | Link to this

i’ll add this too…these are the same HAWKS that LOST to a KOBE-LESS LAKERS team on the road!! what happened when we played MIA when SHAQ was out?? i can’t remember??? tho i think i do!!!

my point is…until the HAWKS develop some sort of consistency in their play, regardless who their opponent might be, they will continue to come up short on the bettin’ end of things!!! it will continue to be a SUPRISE when we beat the NASH-less PHO, the BRAND-less LAC, the BDAVIS-less GS, or the WHO-less whichever and not the EXPECTATION of the ASTERISKS WINS because a certain team’s star was a DNP!!!

By GLid

February 21, 2007 05:06 PM | Link to this

Alright yall, bear with me for a second. I had a bit of free time and looked over all the drafts Mr. Billy Knight has presided over. Here are the picks and players who were selected after the Hawks’ selction:

2006 1st round Hawks pick - Shelden Williams players selected later Brandon Roy Randy Foye 2006 2nd round Hawks pick - Solomon Jones players selected later Paul Milsap Daniel Gibson

2005 1st round HP - Marvin Williams PSL Deron Williams Chris Paul Raymond Felton Charlie Villanueva Andrew Bynum 2005 2nd round HP - Salim Stoudamire PSA Daniel Ewing Ryan Gomes

2004 1st round HP - Josh Childress PSL Luol Deng 2004 2nd round HP - Donta Smith PSL Chris Duhon

2003 1st round HP - Boris Diaw PSL Josh Howard 2003 2nd round HP - Travis Hansen PSL Steve Blake Kyle Korver

Alright, I’m sure many of you have gone over these time and time again but this is especially intriguing considering Sekou’s argument that we’re soft.

Only two of the aforementioned picks were diamonds in the rough - Milsap and Bynum. All the other players were integral to the success of their college teams. It’s not rocket science - Sekou, try and slip Billy a common sense roofie.

Now back to Sekou’s argument. Our “soft” frontcourt consists of a European (synonyms: finesse - antonyms: physical) center - Pachulia, an undersized forward - Shelden, a lanky swingman - Childress, LoWright - no description necessary - and Marvin and JSmoov. Not a single “widebody”.

Now, look at the team we could have fielded just from draft picks

Starters Chris Paul Brandon Roy Josh Howard Luol Deng Andrew Bynum

Bench Paul Milsap Daniel Ewing Chris Duhon Kyle Korver

So I’m just harping on what could have been - what can we do to make the team better right now?

Fire Billy Knight.

The rest of the season should be based on player development, and maybe a top 3 pick will come out of that. This team doesn’t have the horses to make the playoffs.

Fire Billy Knight before the draft - the 2007 draft will be loaded, a 2nd rounder could make an impact next season.

Fire Billy Knight.

By rj

February 21, 2007 05:13 PM | Link to this

bottom line is, billy knight goofed on the draft and letting al harrington leave. picture this, our team would have been chris paul, al harrington, joe johnson, brandon roy, josh smith, josh childress, tyron lue, salim stoudamire, zaza pachullia. and yes, i left the williams brothers off along with speedy ‘hurt’claxton, ‘too soft’ lorenzen wright, and steven a smith’s favorite player Slava Medvendinco. this could have easily been a contender in the waterd down east. billy knight has really screwed this organization, i would atleast give him a grain of respect, if he would come out and admit the wrong. better than that, if he could atleast make a deal for someone that would make us forget his short comings as a gm. this is not a personal attack on him, but rather his logic for the direction of the team. accountability people.

By justin jones

February 21, 2007 05:17 PM | Link to this

hey sekou i played with that trade machine on espn. com andi found out two trades can work out. one we trade marvin and batista for corey maggete, then trade zaza for darko.. i want to trade marvin because he is goin to be just like corey, so might as well trade for him andbatista has to be collateral for the saleries . Then zaza for Darko, i bet the hawks will try to pursue him in the offseason an trade zaza after might as well get him now an pay him off in the off season. Atleast darko plays some kind of defense while zaza just flops and just throw shots up and pray for a foul call. hes just another valde divac in his twilight years

By MannyT

February 21, 2007 05:36 PM | Link to this

This infrequent blog poster said long ago that the ONLY guys on this team now with EDGE are 1-Salim, 2-Josh Smith.

The effort to have everyone be a nice guy is fine off the court. It is a shame that the EDGINESS seems to get steadily squeezed out of Salim. Josh is starting to come around.

It doesn’t seem like a trade is likely at this point. You may as well get the NBDL guy with the most fire in his belly and give him 2 x 10 day contract to put his stamp on this team.

You don’t have to embrace the dark side to have that edge. Get a vocal Jedi that commands a little respect because he is tough…or transplant Salim’s old attitude into Lorenzen’s body.

By jhan

February 21, 2007 07:01 PM | Link to this

I still can’t figure out why Solomon can’t get any minutes. There is no obvious reason why he can’t get at least 10 minutes per game. I would like to see at times a front line of Solomon, ZaZa/Wright & Smith. This would be a good defensive lineup when needed. On offense they could run picks all over for Joe & Salim/Lue. Why not give it a try?

By Jamal

February 21, 2007 07:42 PM | Link to this

Fire Billy Knight please. This team is a joke around the league, and he is not helping matters. Look what a good GM can do. Utah starting rebuilding the same year MR. KNIGHT did. Look where they are now. I miss the 90’s through 2002. We were in the playoffs every year, even after Nique left. Spirit- this franchise is going no where with Mr. Knight running this team. This upcoming draft is going to be one of the deepest in years. We will not even benefit for not making the playoffs AGAIN. We will not have a high pick. If you feel like researching Mr. Knight’s history with the Hawks and Grizzlies- HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN IN THE LOTTERY. What does that tell you…… that his teams are always terrible. HOW MANY TOP 5 PICKS DOES IT TAKE FOR YOU TO BUILD A WINNING TEAM? ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

By Ken Strickland

February 21, 2007 07:58 PM | Link to this

JHAN, you know I’m not as critical as a lot of you, but I echo your sentiments. We need another inside DEF presence other than JSmith. Woody seems to have forgotten some of the OFF advantages used by the Pistons while he was there. With Big Ben’s OFF limitations, Detroit virtually played 4 on 5 on OFF. That made it easy for teams to double the Pistons best scorer, RHamilton. Now, Hamilton isn’t a long range shooter, he doesn’t handle the ball well, and he doesn’t create his own shot. With the ball in his hands, he is easy to double. Without the ball, and running off screens, he can’t be doubled.

Why doesn’t Woody realize the same stragegy will work for JJ. After running JJ off screens, the screener(s)rolls to the basket and accepts a pass or lob. Our team doesn’t have the experience, nor does it play strong enough DEF, to be a half court team. We are not strong enough at the PG position to be effective in this OFF. The system a coach uses can be more of a factor in a teams success or failure, than the talent level.

With the exception of Marion, Staudamire and Nash, the rest of the Suns are other teams castoffs. Even Nash is the beneficiary of the system currently used in Phoenix. He couldn’t crack the starting lineup his 1st tour with the Suns, and he certainly didn’t perform at an MVP level with Dallas. Woodson, and the Hawks, need another OFF and DEF approach that better suits our talent.

By Wedgie Evans

February 21, 2007 09:56 PM | Link to this

Let’s start talking about emotions and mean streaks after this team has constructed a roster that can win. Because it doesn’t matter if Salim all of a sudden learns how to play defense and gets 30 minutes a game to show his “edge” — this team is still going to get 106-81 butt-whoopin’s on the regular with a roster as flawed as it currently is. The fact remains that Joe Johnson and Josh Smith are the only reliable players on this team, and Josh Smith isn’t even consistent offensively yet. The point guard situation is not good, and the low post situation is abysmal. It doesn’t matter if everyone on the floor right now develops a mean streak, this team still won’t be successful until multiple trades are made. Everyone except for Joe Johnson and Josh Smith should be made available to whoever feels like providing the Hawks with a low-post presence and a reliable point guard. Once the Hawks build a balanced roster, we can start talking about their mental toughness. First things first.

By ray

February 21, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Ando,

That was just me complaining about absentee ownership/management. I had to laugh at your response, because that was PRECISELY what I was talking about. And you hit the tennis ball back perfectly. Hilarious, man. There’s no logic involved there, just plain ol’ “everything stinks and is useless” complaining.

Sekou, what is with this latest blog topic? This deep in the season and we’re talking about how soft the Hawks are? I think even those of us who thought they might have a chance at not being soft before the season started found our really quickly that this was not to be the case. How’s that for a run-on sentence….There’s truly not much to say when we’re talking about something that was glaringly clear months ago. Oooops…there goes that “this is a waste of time” feeling again…

By Frustrated, Inc.

February 21, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

End the misery…Move the Hawks to Kansas City or Oklahoma City (if the Hornets don’t set up shop their themselves). Or make the move that should have been done after Chris Paul didn’t don a Hawks jersey….CAN BILLY KNIGHT. I can’t believe Knight makes me long for the salad days of Pete Babock as GM! Un-freakin’-believable!

By PurpleHeaded Yogurt Slinger

February 21, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

jamal you hit the nail on the head.

i think billy’s best team record wise was last years hawks team with 26 wins.

i wish they would just tank the season.

f*** giving phoenix a top 5 pick for a few w’s in the win column.

By PurpleHeaded Yogurt Slinger

February 21, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

24 straight points by ginoboli is ridiculous.

where are the defensive adjustments at?

we suck!

By Clyde

February 21, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

IT MIGHT BE TIME TO STICK A FORK IN THIS SEASON!!! ANOTHER SEASON MORE DISSAPOINTMENT. I TOLD YALL AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SEASON THIS LINEUP WOULD NOT WORK BUT NONE OF YALL WOULD LISTEN.

WE NEEDED BIGS THAT COULD COME IN AND BLOCK SHOTS BUT ALL WE GOT WAS 2 SCRUBS THAT HACK POINT GUARDS THAT COME DOWN THE LANE. ITS SAD BUT I THINK I WOULD RATHER HAVE SHELDON’S GIRLFRIEND (CANDACE PARKER) ON MY TEAM THAN HIM. AND BY THE WAY SEKOU CANDACE IS NATURALLY FINE BEYONCE HAS TO HAVE MAKEUP ON TO LOOK GOOD. I CALL THEM MUDDUCKS.

WHEN WILL WOODY LEARN THAT LORENZEN WRIGHT AND ZAZA WON’T GET THE JOB DONE. SWALLOW YOUR PRIDE AND PLAY THE ROOKIE!!!! PLAY SOMEBODY ANYBODY THAT CAN BLOCK A SHOT. WE WANT SOLOMON JONES!!!!!!!!!

SPEEDY CLAXTON HAS ROBBED THE CITY OF ATLANTA JUST LIKE JAMAL ANDERSON. ITS SAD WHEN YOUR POWER FORWARD HAS MORE ASSISTS THAN YOUR POINT GUARD. REAL SAD.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY T-SHIRTS WILL BE IN FULL EFFECT ON FRIDAY NIGHT. HOLLA AT ME AT ATLCONNECT@HOTMAIL.COM IF YOU WANNA GET IN WHERE YOU FIT IN.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By HB Ando

February 21, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this

Come on, Clyde. You couldn’t add an (except for Ando) after the “I TOLD YALL”?

Where’s the love, dog (sorry, my wife made me watch Idol tonight, so all inquiries must end with “dog?”)?

How much for an XXL?

By Clyde

February 21, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

10 DOLLARS. I GOT A SALE GOING ON.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By HB Ando

February 21, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith is 17 for 58, in the last four ball games. That’s 29%. It’s been pointed out before that every time this kid goes from hungry to self-satisfied, he plummets like a rock. He’s really, really young, and even more immature, from what I can see. But at some point he’s going to have to figure out that greatness will only come with full effort. Night in. Night out. I’ve rarely seen anyone so intent on “making it” so he can go on cruise control. Lord knows what happens when he “gets paid”.

It’s scary to think how good he could be. It’s scarier to think how possible it is that he’s going to be the next Tim Thomas. The league really needs to follow the NFL’s model, and make almost all contracts non-guaranteed. There’s too many examples of great talents quitting before your very eyes, after they sign the big deal. I’m not saying Josh is that guy. But I am saying he’s looking like a very serious candidate.

But, in fairness, 11 boards, 6 dimes and 2 blocks are the real deal. So maybe I’m overreacting. I just don’t want to ever see this kid quit on the game.

By JB

February 21, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

Preach it, Sekou!! Methinks you’re channeling your pops here, and that’s not a bad thing, judging from your past comments. Suit up Grant Long, I say.

By mad hawks fan

February 21, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

The Hawks may be “soft as puddin”, so the blame goes to the chef, and that chef would be one Billy Knight. BK picked, traded, and signed all of these guys so he is responsible for where we are and what we are doing. I just found out that Billy Knight went to the Pete Babcock GM School, that explains why we are 21-33 and tied for last in the division. Same song different verse. It is every year we go through the same thing, so how does Mr Babcock II keep his job? I’ve said it before and I will say it again, Billy Knight can’t pick his nose. Our fearless GM has missed on picks that could of been great for us. Times up BK, time for you to hit the highway.

By Hatertots

February 21, 2007 11:55 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Spirit,LLC:

If this team is ever going to resemble a real NBA franchise again, it’s going to have to start with you. And while it seems like you really do want things to work out for the Hawks, you’re just not sure where to start or what to do. That’s why I’m posting here! Don’t worry, we’ll have this straightened out in no time!

Plan A, Step 1: Call Arthur Blank and gauge his interest in buying your basketball team. This is the fastest way you can guarantee locals will take notice of your commitment to winning basketball in Atlanta.

Admittedly, the quick and painless approach isn’t for everybody. Some ownership groups prefer the tough road and the long haul. And this sounds more like your style, Atlanta Spirit, LLC. After all, you guys hired Billy Knight for your general manager, so clearly you’re not scared of the word ‘adversity’. Alright, let’s move on to Plan B!

Step 1: Fire Billy Knight. It may seem like an unpopular move right now, but somewhere down the line, you’re going to appreciate having a GM that knows how to: draft a point guard, draft a center, not get taken for all he’s worth when signing Joe Johnson, not get taken for all he’s worth when trading Al Harrington.

As a bonus, I’ve included a little quiz you can give to GM hopefuls during interviews to help you in your evaluation process!

Q: Which 2 players are the most important for basketball success?

A. Point Guard, Center

B. Batman, Robin

C. Trick question. If you get enough 6’ 6”-6’8” guys, positions are irrelevant.

D. The 2 I’m going to steal from Billy Knight during the off season.

Step 2: Make sure Dominique Wilkins is the highly visible elder statesman of your franchise. People in Atlanta like ‘Nique. They hate you.

Step 3: Until morale improves, cut the ticket prices way back. A $40 seat that goes unsold for a game on Wednesday can’t be sold on Thursday. People might actually come to see a bad team if the money’s right, and then (gasp!) you might actually have a crowd to cheer for the team, and generally players like this. Just remember, no one will pay filet mignon prices for sloppy joes, and right now, your team is an Adam Sandler classic.

Now, everything won’t just come together overnight, Atlanta Spirit, LLC. But this plan will work. In fact, this plan is just like me when I get behind the wheel after I’ve had a few: give it time, we’ll get there. Until then, hold your head up high, Atlanta Spirit, LLC! Remember, you’ve got a winning ice sport team that nobody cares about, which is (arguably) better than a losing basketball team that nobody cares about. And if all else fails, at least no one on your team murders dogs!

By ray

February 22, 2007 08:26 AM | Link to this

No movement at all on the trade scene so far…for any team. Hmmmm….

Wow Clyde, the most you’ve said all season. Try and find that “caps lock” button on the keyboard. Just like Ando, you yellin’ at the choir….for no real reason other than selling t-shirts I guess. Hey, whatever works for sales, LOL!

By honest_abe

February 22, 2007 09:03 AM | Link to this

wow not a single comment on that ubsurd flagrant foul call in the 4th quarter…….. that retarded call is still making my blood boil… the spurs scored 5 or 6 points on that one possession from the free throw line.

all jj did was foul the guy.. and he gets called for a flagrant.. RIDICULOUS!!!!!!!!!

By HB Ando

February 22, 2007 09:31 AM | Link to this

Was it a mere two days ago?

Here’s what Ando predicted:

“It will be interesting to see how the last 30 games play out. The all-star break is the point where wily veterans begin to play at full-speed. Look for Shaq to wind it up.”

Here’s Joe’s reply:

Ando, did you see Shaq the other night in the All-Star game? You may have confused him for Stanley Roberts or Artis Gimore. If he is able to muster anything other than the occassional 16/10 (like maybe once every 5-6 games) I’d be shocked. I’m predicting stats akin to what he did in last year’s Finals, 11 points and about 8 boards for the remainder of the season. The Heat will be better with Mourning on the floor. The “Shaq Fu Farewell Tour” will likely be announced in November.”

First game back from the break, Shaq Fu goes for 20 and 16 (guess he can go for 2 and 0 next game, Joe, to keep in pace with your spot-on prediction).

That’s what I call playing opossom. Joe, why do you insist on going against me when it should be painfully obvious that I’m right 98% of the time (OK, I really did think Marvin would emerge as the guy to keep, not Josh. I was wrong there for sure)?

You’re a GD genius, Gump………

Hawks to Ohhh and 2 to start the second half. I feel a major tumble coming………Hopefully, it will be big enough to get us a legitimate shot at keeping that top-3. Gonna need some serious luck, as we’ll probably come in around the 5th or 6th-worst record (Heyyyyy, up from 4th worst last year!!!!!). Woo hoo.

By Steve

February 22, 2007 09:53 AM | Link to this

Question: For how many more years will we be saying “the Hawks need a pg and a big in the middle?” I think it’s been 3-ish years straight…with no end in sight. Do you think 3 years of needing the SAME THING is enough? When will the Hawks finally get the pg and c? Three more years? Today? Next year?

If you had told me after the 2003 season that the Hawks were going to need TWO specific position players - a point guard and a physical center - I would have said “of course they do.” If you would have then told me they wouldn’t get EITHER of them for over 3 or 4 years, I would have started to cheer for another team.

By David

February 22, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this

FIRE woodson is right!!! I am a knick fan, so I have my own struggles, but I also am a Hawks liker.. Yous guys have soooo much talent on that team, and it is going to waste all do to your Coach.. SALIM, he had 15 minutes off the bench combined in the last two games, he played flawless basketball.. he played so flawless the night before, that Woodson decided to give salim playing time in the first half against the spurs. HE played great, took smart shots, played hard defense, passed the ball, and then woodson doesnt play him the rest of the game. I dont get it, i really dont. SPEEDY Claxton, SPEEDY claxton, if this guy was soo good, WHY DID HE GOTO HOFSTRA, a stuglling D-1 school in the American East. And then you look at a guy like SAlim who helped carry his team to the final four a few times! what did speedy do in college? Woodson hates Salim for some odd reason and that is the reason you guys are losing your games right now.. Part of it.

By HB Ando

February 22, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

Jarret Jack had 30 points and 7 dimes last night, with 2 3’s. He was 9-12 from the field and 10-11 from the line. For the month of February, he’s averaging 16 points, 6.3 dimes, 1.2 steals, on 46% shooting. In only his second year, he’s rapidly emerging as a legitimate PG in the league.

As a 21st overall pick, two years ago, he’s making roughly a million and change, as part of his rookie contract.

This is the very same player that Billy Knight publicly stated that he did not think was worth trading the future first rounder for, to move up and take him two years ago. He said, “why would I trade a pick that could be as high as 11th, next year, for a guy who went 21st this year (um, because that years’ draft was already defined as far stronger than the coming one, as the high schoolers had already been prohibited from entering)?” He clearly valued that pick so much that he threw it in, along with this years’ lottery pick, to get a player who’s team wasn’t going to match his term sheet with Atlanta.

What a freakin’ moron.

By the way Joe, the guy you compared to Eric Snow, ostensibly because you believed he cannot shoot, is shooting 44% from behind the arc in January. He now has 43 3’s this season, and will match Snow’s career total of 55 (in 800 games) before years’ end.

Yet another spot on player assessment by Joe (are you SURE you’re not Billy Knight?).

By honest_abe

February 22, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

ando, sadly now we all know how much of a hawks fan you really are. passed up a chance to watch the hawks play to watch american idol? eeeeeeeeeeeek!

By BeFrank

February 22, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Can someone answer this for me? If we fire the GM and the coach, who would we hire. What good GMs are available now? We missed out on Colangelo and you see what he’s doing with Toronto.

By Dee

February 22, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

I think the Hawks are truly trying to win with this team but continues to come of short due to lack of true PG & BIG man…the good thing about this is we are losing which continues to put us in a position to get a top 3 pick.

Do anybody remember what place Toronto was in when they got #1 pick?? They got mighty lucky and hopefully luck would fall in our laps this year. I dont want to trade anyone at this time but if we do, I hope its Marvin,Batista, & Salim cause as many times Salim puts up shots, he ends the game with about 6-9 pts. Not enough points recorded based on how many he jacks up. I do believe that he doesnt get in the game much. But that’s just how coach Woodson is. He doesnt play rookies & 2nd year players much. That’s how he was w/ Josh Smith. He benched him a whole lot no matter what he did..Good or bad. So Salim just has to wait his turn as long as Woodson is coaching. SAD TO SAY THOUGH!!

By curious

February 22, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Why do Joe continue to get a pass? He is supposedly the leader of this team. With what he is getting paid he should be vocal and have his team follow him. All of on this blog can see he doesn’t say a thing. The only person who says anything to another player is JS. The next time Zaza, Marvin, Shelden give up another touch foul 3pt play. Someone should let them have it. Woody obviously doesn’t. Go take a look at 82 games.com and see how bad the team is at the 1 and 5.

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

Ando, thanks for pointing out my “great game in every 5-6” scenario. Get back with me after the sample size is complete.

Also, my comparison with Snow was never based on a single month nor on his shooting. He’s a 12-13 point and 6-7 assist player. He’ll have good months and bad months. But he’s an average PG on a rebuilding team. He won’t stay on that team another 18 months as they are already raving about Sergio and his upside. Jack is Eric Snow. A tough defender, a quiet leader, a spot-up shooter and an average player. I didn’t compare him to Tyus Edney or Jacque V. Eric Snow is a capable PG and so is Jack. Sorry if I don’t share your excitement about the guy.

Lastly, I don’t think it required your sheer genius to predict the Hawks would struggle in games against Chicago, San Antonio, Houston and Phoenix. So before you break your arm about making such a bold prediction, let’s recognize that many saw the difficulty of the February schedule.

Moving on…

When the game was tied 70-70 going into the 4th quarter, did anyone notice how few touches Zaza got after his terrific 3rd quarter? Did you see JJ settle for jumper after jumper when the come back was based on scoring int he paint? This team is so undisciplined. Maybe because of youth, maybe beacuse of coaching. But their inability to stay focused on that which helped them be successful (as early as the previous quarter) is what frustrates me the most. I have noticed several times when JJ seems to think “okay, now its time for me to takeover”. When it was the TEAM that got them back in the game. I know that works for the elite players (liek Kobe). But let’s not fool ourselves into thinking JJ is at that level. If the Hawks fought back by posting up Zaza and attacking the glass, then why would JJ decide to start the 4th quarter shooting from the perimeter? Ugh!

By Ryder

February 22, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

BeFrank,

Unfortunately people on this blog don’t have the depth to think beyond “just fire him” mentality, because they like to whine about who they didn’t draft (typical of an Atlanta fanbase). I’ll do the best I can to answer your question for both a coach and GM. It’s obvious this team needs a coach who is a leader and actually has experience in the position. I believe someone like Paul Silas type who can mentor the young talent would work. As for a GM, you could hire anyone with common sense to draft on need and not necessarily talent.

By Ken Strickland

February 22, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

CLYDE, you might not make your points as eloquently as some on these blogs, but you do make good points. If you want others, on these blogs, to accept your ideas, you must establish credibility. That’s is how you go about building a listening audience.

BUT CLYDE, WHEN YOU IMPLY THAT MAKEUP IS THE CAUSE OF BEYONCE’S BEAUTIFUL EYES, SKIN TONE, LIPS, SMILE, UNBELIEVABLE CURVES ON THAT UNBELIEVABLEY SMOOTH FLAWLESS BODY, YOU LOST YOUR AUDIENCE.

By The Master Debater

February 22, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

A LITTLE off-topic, but HB Ando, you REALLY hit the nail on the head last night at 11:19 with your comment about NBA contracts.

From a fan’s perspective, guaranteed contracts are the WORST thing to ever happen to this league. Far too many guys - even some of the so-called superstars - “get paid” … and then lay down like a pack of mangy dogs.

It’s too bad more fans don’t take these clowns to task for stealing money.

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Damn, Ando. I feel really stupid now. I didn’t look at the league scoreboard before responding to your earlier blog. Who cares what Shaq did when they lose? Let’s discuss his ability to load the team on his back and WIN some games. (You must have Shaq on your fantasy league team, since you don’t seem to care if his stats deliver victories).

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

CLYDE, Jamal Anderson robbed the city? When? When he broke the record for most rushes in NFL histroy then suffered a career-ending injury the next season? Exactly when did he “dog it”? Speedy? No argument. But Jamal? Explain that one to me please.

By Tyger

February 22, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Anthony Johnson

NBA journeyman and former Hawk, Anthony Johnson, picks up where he left off in the ATL, against his most recent team, the Mavs.

Known for tough defense and steady leadership, Johnson is an upgrade over the current group of pretenders. He’s a proven vet that can compete on a high level nightly.

With only a 2 year/$2.6M contract, the Hawks buy time to find long term fixes in other areas, while upgrading the PG position immediately.

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

HAWKS ACQUIRE ANTHONY JOHNSON

For a second round pick. Nice pick-up. Good to be on the buyer’s end for a change.

By michael m.

February 22, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

bk is a true idiot. unfortunately he must have been listening to sekou on this one. johnson isn’t a quick fix, he’s a quick mistake. giving up a high second rounder in this deep draft, pathetic. how many overpaid backup pg’s does it take to change a lightbulb at phillips arena? what a disaster our gm is.

By William

February 22, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Sigh.

They need a coach. Its that simple really.

Yes that HORRIBLE flagrant call hurt big time, and honestly cost them the game (that one play resulted in 5 points for the spurs in a 4 point game. that pretty much sealed it).

But here is my issue. The great thing about having all these 6’9 players on the court at the end of the game is that you have a MONSTER mismatch when the opposing point guard has to play Childress. They went to Childress in the paint twice. once resulted in a wide open jumper and the other was a missed shot. But you don’t go away from 6 foot Tony Parker covering 6’8-6’9 Josh Childress on the post. By not exploiting that you pretty much are giving away the advantage you had.

Salim played perfectly in the first half. People harp on his defense, but he is great at keeping guys in front of him. He doesn’t play the screen and roll perfectly(he goes underneath way too much) but as a one on one defender he is Lindsey Hunter tenacious because of his quick feet. on offense, he passed well, drove the ball when given the opportunity. Great D, Great offense and a great freethrow shooter when the Hawks were blowing them the whole game. So he doesn’t play AT ALL in the second half? Really?

Solomon Jones in his really really limited minutes covers a ridiculous amount of ground to block a shot. not huge but something they wouldn’t have gotten out of Wright. Now, Wright could play straight up on a opposing big better than Solomon right now, but on nights where there aren’t any big brusisers inside (say like when they play the Rockets or the Suns) he is the guy you need there.

Offensively…I saw at least 10 opportunities to run last night that were pulled back. Mostly on long rebounds or plays where the a guard penetrated and everyone crashed the boards.

You have a team of 6’9 athletes on the court. No PF on the court can outrun marvin. Josh is a blur. Childress can run like a deer. Even Pachulia can get up the court faster than most Centers. Joe played in that Phoenix system and knows how to get out and run. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THAT.

The Hawks have a pretty good team talent wise. Yes they have some holes but who doesn’t. The problem is bad coaching. Then win despite bad coaching and they lose because of it.

By honest_abe

February 22, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

ya not sure if anthony johnson is the right fit. the hawks need a guy that can push and is a distributor. johnson is more of a scorer. either way he should be an upgrade over speedy who has dissappointed even me… and my expectations are next to nothing.

By pablo bosque

February 22, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

I’ve been the eternal optimist this season, holding out hope for a last minute trade and a run for that 8 spot. But now that the Hawks started out the 2nd “half” 0-2 and the Magic traded for Ray Allen, there’s no way we’re making the playoffs (I know others have already stated this obvious fact).

The only focus now should be on preparing the team for next season. This means:

1) PT for the young guys. We’re having trouble at the 1 and 5? Start Salim and maybe even Solomon Jones. Why not? Speedy and Zen aren’t cutting it, Ivey is a total loss offensively, Zaza often does better off the bench, might as well experiment until something works. Best case scenario: Salim and Solomon start to find their stride and are truly competitive bench/starting options next year. Worst case: we lose games which, presto, puts us in contention for a top 4 (protected) draft pick. It’s a win-win scenario.

Whoever commented about Speedy vs. Salim that the latter led his team, as a pg, to the final four…exactly! Right on. Let him figure out how to compete in the NBA. It can’t hurt. Salim is fast and can push the ball on the break. He shoots too quickly, needs to slow down and get his feet squared up, but he WILL get better as he plays more. He’s probably on such an adrenline rush from actually getting PT, once he calms down the composure will follow. And after watching him recently, I don’t agree that he can’t handle the ball, but he needs to calm down and get his head right.

2) Create a real half-court offense. A consistent starting PG would help, but consider the post-game quote from Ginobili: “Some of those stretches were the best of my career. [Coach Gregg] Popovich started running every single play for me and all of them worked.” Wait a sec, the coach realized one of his players was on fire and ran plays to get him the ball? Wow. I wonder what that’s like. Do we even have half-court sets? It’s hard to tell sometimes. Wouldn’t it be great if JJ could catch and shoot off screens rather than putting the ball on the floor? You can’t play PG and SG at the same time…

3) Rotate faster on D. Seems like the Hakws are always getting burned on pick and rolls, two Hawks tangled up by the pick while the roller sinks a wide open 15-footer, or maybe even jogs in for the uncontested dunk. And a zone D won’t work if they don’t rotate faster to pick up the open man. Seems like they’re always dragging their feet.

Anyway, that’s just one man’s opinion. I’d love to see the Hawks become competitive, but they’ve got a lot to work on…

By pablo bosque

February 22, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Posted before reading ab the Anthony Johson trade… Nice work Hawks! Still would like to see Salim at the point, and Speedy should rest his knees anyways, he’s still got 3 years left on that contract (sob)

By mykhalc

February 22, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

MM, i’m with you man. sounds like he was definitely tryin’ to quick fix the PG position. is he an upgrade?? well, he’s healthy!!! right?? i mean, he is healthy right???!!!LOL was it worth a 2nd rounder?? NO!!

but i’m back to WOODSON now. the way he coaches, rotates, etc who knows how he implements AJ into the lineup. my confidence in WOODSON to do the SMART thing is ZILCH, NADA, NO WAY, AIN’T GONNA HAPPEN!!!!!

By mykhalc

February 22, 2007 01:01 PM | Link to this

WILLIAM, your post is on point. i’ve said for awhile now that the lineup to go with is JC, JJ, JS, MW, SJONES. it’s a lineup worth lookin’ at!! and it DOES NOT cost ANYTHING to see if it’ll work or what it brings!!!

the more i think about it, the move the HAWKS made really pi$$es me off!! ‘cause IMHO, the cats and possible combinations that were on the roster before AJ HAVE NOT been sufficently explored!!

I REALLY DO NOT GET IT!!!!!

By honest_abe

February 22, 2007 01:02 PM | Link to this

william very good points…

the best being the one about the mismatch from childress. yes they did try to exploit the size advantage but their spacing was awful! it’s like they’ve never practiced that before. the hawks are the worst coached team in the league. period.

still not getting enough of an uproar about that god awful flagrant call. how does an official make that call in the 4th quarter of a close game. jj barely tapped barry and barry stumbled over his own clumy self and his head hit the cameraman. how is that a flagrant. the nba has become soft and sad.

can i please have my shot at coaching the hawks?

By dap

February 22, 2007 01:19 PM | Link to this

Anthony Johnson for a 2nd round pick. Why?

By ray

February 22, 2007 01:28 PM | Link to this

Ahem. I didn’t expect any transaction to be made at all. Guess I was wrong. The way Gearon made it sound, they were just in love with Speedy. But what are we seeing? Is this a long term solution or a pseudo-quick fix? We definitely needed insurance (no pun intended…well I lie with that one) for the oft-injured Claxton. AJ is a tough solid guy who can play some good minutes. Not saying that he will provide good minutes, ‘cause I thought Speedy would have that impact too ya know. But he CAN.

Maybe this is something that is the precursor of a pg’s exodus from this roster. Johnson could be used in a multi-player deal. Or it could be Claxton or eve Lue. Or Ivey. Either way, I don’t see 4 pgs sticking around here, we don’t need to stockpile that position anymore than we needed to do so at the forward position. I guess we’ll see who goes, ‘cause somebody is going. And they probably won’t be going alone…

I don’t expect this to get us any closer to the playoffs. And knowing (or not knowing) Woodson, who’s to say Johnson even gets significant minutes…or at the right times. We’ll see.

Well Ando, I guess you had to be wrong again for once. Or are you going to argue that you were saying a “good” deal was not going to be done to improve the team, as opposed to no deal was going to be done at all? Hell, I don’t even remember for certain exactly what it was you said anyway, would have to look it up. Not worth the effort.

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 01:41 PM | Link to this

dap, the Hawks have the youngest team in the NBA. The chances that a 2nd round pick will find a role on this already too young team is very unlikely. Salim is getting very little time. Solomon Jones is buried on the bench.

Basically, we traded for a guy who will likely get 20-28 minutes every game, make his teammates better, provide veteran leadership and costs less than $3M for the next 2 years, for someone who may have been a decent practice player.

Also, please take a look at what AJ did last season after the All-Star game when he got PT. 11 points, about 5 assists and only 1.6 turnovers in 29 minutes per. Not All-Star type numbers but certainly numbers that would deliver a few more wins for this team. Plus (and I can’t stress this enough), he is a veteran who knows how to play the game. He’s play shouldn’t be erratic. He should be a steady hand for this team and another offensive weapon when teams focus on JJ and the youngsters are going cold, especially late in the game. Hopefully, Speedy will be put on the shelf for the remainder of the season so that he can be healthy enough to be traded at this time next year.

If I were a Thrashers fan, I’d be upset if the Hawks get to spend extra money when they are strugging to hold onto a playoff spot.

By Ken Strickland

February 22, 2007 02:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand the criticism of Salim. He does what he’s told, or expected to do. He is seldom, if ever, put in the game to run the OFF. He gets his limited minutes when the team needs points, and/or outside shooting in a hurry. With the ball handling, and passing skills of JJ, the PG doesn’t have to be a ballhandling magician. I guarantee one thing, with Salim at the point, teams wouldn’t be as quick to double/triple team JJ. Also, with him running the OFF from the top on the key, opposing PG’s would have to stay on top of him and that deadly, long range jump shot. He also drive and finishes well at the basket.

Woodson, and his staff, have been successful developing Childress, Smith, Marvin, by giving them playing time as rookies. How in the hell does he expect Salim and Solomon to develop sitting on the bench. The Hawks desperately need an inside DEF presence, besides JSmith, and Solomon is our only option. I think it’s time to bring in an experience coach to move this team forward.

By Wedgie Evans

February 22, 2007 03:02 PM | Link to this

Anthony Johnson is maybe not the blockbuster we may have wanted, but trading a 2nd round pick for him is certainly not a bad deal for the Hawks… assuming you want them to make a playoff push this year instead of tanking. I’d say AJ’s instantly the best point guard on this team (kinda sad, but it’s the truth) and the chances that the Hawks would have got a solid rotation player with their 2nd round pick are slim to none. Good trade.

By HB Ando

February 22, 2007 03:04 PM | Link to this

I’m kinda hung up on this one. On one hand, I like Anthony Johnson, and think he’ll probably be our best point guard. But we know have 4 average to bad PG’s and that’s not counting Salim. Isn’t it sad when you acquire a career journeyman, who makes $1.3 million a year, and he’s an immediate upgrade over the free agent PG you signed less than a year ago, that you paid $25 million? Isn’t it sad when you have to give up an early 2nd round draft pick, to try and fix the mistake you made with your free agent signing? Isn’t it pointless to use that 2nd rounder, when Johnson is neither a long-term solution, nor likely to get us into the playoffs.

So, I like Johnson better than our other point guards (although I’m not sure that he and Lue don’t bring almost the same exact thing to the floor). But I don’t see the point. And I don’t agree with what we gave up to get him. Are we going to finally cut Royal Ivey, and admit another Billy mistake from the past?

Billy, when we were screaming for you to address the PG position, what we meant was that you need to get a quality, long-term solution there, NOT that you should accumulate as many career backups, journeymen and cast offs as possible.

Johnson won’t be the difference in us making it out of the lottery. And there is no value in coming just short of the 8th seed, as it’s(as Charley Rosen called it the Booby Prize) only practical effect is to give us the worst possible chance of keeping our first round pick.

Couldn’t we have had Johnson thrown in on the Harrington deal? The difference between Indy’s 1st, and our 2nd, will likely be around 15 picks. So, we effectively traded Harrington and our second rounder, for Johnson and Indy’s first.

That’s freakin’ brilliant. Again.

Unless he’s now going to package Lue, for a replacement pick, right at the deadline, this was a stupid move.

I just wish Knight would be escorted out of town before he does any more damage to this franchise. I’m pretty sure that we’re still years away from repairing his mistakes. All he’s done is trade a bad team with bad contracts for a bad team with little talent or viable assets. He’s either wasted or given away all our recent/current draft picks. This is an abomination.

Joe, whatever dude. Jack’s second year in the NBA, numbers wise, will be Snow’s career year. And he’s not nearly done developing. You ignore the fact that he clearly a superior shooter, with real 3 point range. You ignore the fact that most of Snow’s assist numbers came from handing the ball off to Iverson (who couldn’t average 7 dimes doing that?). You point to the fact that the Heat lost, when that was never a part of your point. You just said Shaq was done, and that he’d average 11 and 8 the rest of the way. You still think that Childress, our back up, is comparable to Igoudala, the player the Sixers are rebuilding their franchise around. You waffle more than John Kerry. And you’re more stubborn than an old goat. I still think you’re Billy Knight. Especially with each, passing ridiculous player assessment. If you’re not him, you must be a close relative. You’re about the only person in town I WOULDN’T replace Billy with.

Newsflash: Hawks are going to end the season exactly where I said they would almost 2 YEARS ago! Not bad enough to protect their pick, and not good enough to make the playoffs, or keep from handing over a lottery pick to Phoenix.

Swell.

By Clyde

February 22, 2007 03:17 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

THE ONLY THING ANTHONY JOHNSON WILL DO FOR US IS KNOCK US OUT THE TOP 3 FOR THIS YEARS DRAFT. FIRST IT WAS KENNY ANDERSON. THEN JON BARRY. THEN BOB SURA. THEN TYRON LUE. THEN SPEEDY CLAXTON AND NOW ANTHONY JOHNSON. WHEN WILL THE MADNESS STOP?

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 03:33 PM | Link to this

Ando, the 76ers ARE NOT rebuilding their franchise around Iggy. That is utterly STUPID. They are rebuilding their frnachise around whomever they land in the next draft. Iggy is, at best, the second fiddle.

Saying Shaq will “heat back up” but with the team not winning is a senseless point to make. It would be like me predicting that Gasol would come back an produce 20/10 results. Who cares what a guy does if he team doesn’t win. Remember, I’m the guy who said several years ago that the Mavs don’t miss Nash because they are a better team without him. You disagreed with me then. Meanwhile, Nash gets an MVP and Mavs go to the Finals. I’m guessing Cuban would take that every day of the week. Its about winning, not individual stats or awards. Team success. If Shaq averages 80/40/10 blocks for the remainder of the season and they are sitting in the lottery at the end of the year, what does that mean? Isn’t Shaq’s great legacy tied to championships? Let me ask you this, what were some of Bill Russell’s individual stats? Oscar averaged a triple number, how about Russell? Wilt averaged over 30 boards for a season, how about Russell? No body CARES. Dude won 10 or 11 championships. No body discusses his individual stats. Its about TEAM.

So if it makes you feel better, you’re right. Shaq was playing possum and will be a dominant big man again. And if Wade misses 10-15 games, I’m guessing that the Shaq Fu master will enjoy watching Brendan Haywood in the playoffs while bathing in his re-born dominance.

One last thing Ando, re-read your last post and tell me that it doesn’t sound like you are blaming BK (yet again) for the Harrington trade? Did he pocket that trade exemption?

And I can’t believe that you don’t see the value of winning 30-36 games. I guess you don’t see the value of learning how to play competitively at all times, or how to rebound from tough losses or how to learn how to win close games or learn how to execute plays at crunch time or how to tighten up defensively or all of those other things that the NBA’s youngest team needs to learn before making the playoffs.

And one more other last thing. Why is it that Shelden can’t be anything more than he is today but Jack (who is the IDENTICAL AGE), is “still developing”?

Enjoy your rain yelling until Belkin comes to your rescue!

By mykhalc

February 22, 2007 03:46 PM | Link to this

ANDO, i think you summed it up well. i think AJ and LUE (when healthy) do bring the same thing to the floor. and it is a shame that AJ REALLY is the best PG on the team now!!

here is the 2nd rounder argument…given how BK and WOODSON have developed the 2nd rounders on this team so far, then NO it’s not too much to give up!!! ‘cause they DO NOT develop them!!!! and it sucks!!! given how other teams have developed 2nd rounders into valuable contributors then HELL YEAH it’s too much to give up!!! why is it that the HAWKS CANNOT seem to turn the 2nd rounders into REAL NBA PLAYERS!!!?????

more confusin’ to me is, BK has drafted LONG AND LEAN SWINGMAN. yet WOODSON does not take advantage of this concept on the court!!!??? we’ve got a semi-PHO built team (i did say semi…thank you), yet WOODSON coaches as if he’s got a semi-PISTONS built team??!!!???? HUH??? so are BK and WOODSON even on the same page????? (i know it’s been asked before)

i know i continue to call for the JC at PG thing. but the truth is i JUST WANT the best and MOST PRODUCTIVE lineup on the floor. and i want the roster to be used to it’s fullest potential!! and TO ME, i see the obvious bein’ ignored by this coach!! he’s got a lineup that plays well together and has started to develop a playin’ style within themselves. yet he refuses to milk it!!! instead of milkin’ that lineup, he continues to see what SPEEDY can bring him???!!!! HUH!!!!??? i said earlier…shut SPEEDY and LUE down!!!!

well, i’ll leave it with this very profound thought..HUH????????!!!!

By michael m.

February 22, 2007 03:53 PM | Link to this

i agree with chad ford on this one. this comes from his espn chat today regarding the trade we made.

Bill (Austin): Chad what are your thoughts on the Hawks getting Anthony Johnson for the Mavs’ second round pick for the 07 draft?

Chad Ford: From ESPN.com’s own Nick Silva, our cap guru: “The Hawks-Mavs trade saved Dallas 2.64M in tax for this year and 5.72M next year (2.86M salary + 2.86M tax) and they got the Hawks pick in the second round which is 37 right now and they gained a 2.64M trade exception.”

Once again Billy Knight is helping out one of the best teams in the league. He needs a lifetime achievement award.

back to me now: bk and the spirit are idiots. there will be some second round studs that come out of this loaded draft, just takes making the right choice. unfortunately bk has now eliminated us from even having a choice, electing to pick up another pg the way he used to pick up swingmen. this guy is a joke who cannot make a good trade to save his life. the stephen jackson/al harrington swap years back must have been a fluke. bk has become really bad in the last two years.

By Bertie

February 22, 2007 04:13 PM | Link to this

A potential high second round pick is too expensive for Anthony Johnson, we could have probably had him in exchange for Ivey and/or Batista as Dallas will save some money this year and a lot more next. A guy The team could have had last year for the expiring contract of Delk end up spending a second round pick. I do not understand BK, he says he treasures draft choices and makes this move, he says he drafts the best available player and then drafts Shelden at 5.

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 04:51 PM | Link to this

We already have 2 highly drafted 2nd rounders and neither get much run. WE DON’T NEED TO GET YOUNGER! Yes, we need better talent, but that is not likely to come in the 2nd round. Give me a leader now who can contribute over the next 28 games vs. the “hope” that we can find a diamond in the rough. And what is it about this coaching staff that makes you think they would know what to do with a “diamond in the rough”?

By honest_abe

February 22, 2007 05:26 PM | Link to this

bertie: the hawks have been offering royal to anyone and everyone. i’m almost certain bk offered him for anthony johnson. please understand royal would have a hard time sticking with a nbdl club and nobody wants him. yet he starts for the hawks..LOL

By HB Ando

February 22, 2007 05:30 PM | Link to this

Joe, almost everyone on the planet felt like the only reason the Nash-led Suns didn’t go instead of the Mavs is because of Amare’s injury.

And you’re going to hedge your prediction on Shaq’s second-half play by looking for them to lose because one of the top-5 players in the league just dislocated his shoulder? Huh? If Wade’s there and Shaq puts up numbers, most folks put them back in the finals. If Shaq puts up numbers, but they don’t win because Wade is hurt, how does that support your point? Shaq either produces to my expectations or yours. Them losing with Wade out doesn’t support your position that Shaq is done.

Back to Shelden: do you not listen to anyone that writes scouting reports? We’ve discussed this a million times. Shelden Williams came into the league with clearly defined limitations to his game. He cannot get an taller, more mobile or more athletic. He is viewed by most as a nearly finished product. I’ve already agreed that he’ll likely play in the league for another ten years. But if you would like me to list every back up power forward in the league, who gives their team what Shelden brings this one, for a lot less than a #5, I will.

From the sentiment on today’s blog, you seem to be railing all alone. Folks here are tired of Billy Knight. Please tell me how ownership’s issues play into Billy wasting our 2nd rounder in a desperate attempt to make up for his Speedy mistake. This guy is a major league bum. The fact that the owners are bums too doesn’t absolve him of the responsibility he has for repeated BAD decisions regarding draft choices and misuse of franchise assets.

My point about Harrington, was the net effect of this deal. We now didn’t just get a first. With Johnson contract, we could have gotten him thrown in to any deal. So we really, net, have traded Harrington and our early second, for Johnson and a mid-to-late first. And if we had just done that in the first place, there would have been no point in giving Speedy $25 million. It’s just a clear lack of a plan, and any, remote skill for the job.

Joe, I just don’t know how you can continue to act like Billy is OK. You and a couple of Hawks staffers are the only ones. Either admit that you’re Billy, or his brother, or admit that you’re wrong. Again. Still.

By mykhalc

February 22, 2007 06:00 PM | Link to this

just so i can keep the HAWKS moves clear (not that they are tho)…is RICHARDSON still with the team?? i’m the BAYAREA BOXSCORE KING that’s does not see the games as most know!LOL SEKOU’s article said JR was back to the NBDL but the boxscore had him listed. which is it?????

again…HUH!!!????

By Volman

February 22, 2007 06:02 PM | Link to this

Mykhalc, Childress is good at the point at certain times, but I REALLY think his production will be 100 times better when he can play his REAL position (a 2, or 3)….I can even see Childress come off of the bench now to get JOE some resting time.. .. I don’t see Childress running the point anymore (obviously..)

I don’t see a 2nd rounder helping the team out at all (like others have said) , so I’m not upset with giving that away…for the simple fact that Woody plays this team like they ARE the Pistons and that only 7 guys are going to carry this team to the promise land. If we’re going to lose, atleast give some other guys some PT.. Maybe we lose ball games at the end because we’re TIRED.

Can Solomon get some PT? I really think if he gets some confidence he can be nasty off of the bench. NASTY.

By Matt

February 22, 2007 06:39 PM | Link to this

So since there’s some positive talk of the trade here, I say bravo and add my 10 cents as to why the Anthony Johnson trade was a good move:

1) He’s one of the grittiest and most persistent defensive PGs in the league. Since D has been the Hawks problem far more than O recently, getting someone who can create constant pressure on the opposing ball-handler is one of the biggest gaps the Hawks need now.

2) He’s a guy who doesn’t quit on offense either. I saw him during the playoffs last year against NJ, and Johnson was GREAT at pushing the ball up the floor after NJ scored a big bucket. That’s huge, because it kept NJ from building up momentum, and kept the Pacers within striking distance most games.

3) He can knock down shots from 3-point range better than anyone on the Hawks except Salim (career .338, and significantly higher than that if you cut out the first 3 seasons of his career).

4) He’s a BIG improvement over Ivey, whose time on the team is now pretty much up.

5) Second-round picks pretty much never amount to jack. About half of them actually don’t even make the team. Assuming the Hawks pick 5th or lower in the 2nd round, they’ll have slim pickings. The ONLY one from the last 3 drafts who puts up decent stats is Monta Ellis. No joke, but after him, the most productive players to come out of the NBA draft in the past 3 years who were picked 35th or lower are Chris Duhon, Ryan Gomes, or Trevor Ariza - none of whom are exactly tearing the roof off. So the odds of the Hawks getting someone better than Johnson with their pick is pretty minimal.

6) Johnson is without a doubt a capable starting PG, very similar to Avery Johnson back in the 90’s (Anthony’s a bit taller, while Avery was a bit quicker). The only reason he was a third-stringer on Dallas is that they have two PGs, either of whom would be starters on most teams in the league.

7) Johnson is CLUTCH. Did any of you see him play during the playoffs last year against NJ? Yeah, didn’t think so. He scored 40 points, and was the only thing that kept the Pacers from getting blown away during most of that series.

8) Honestly, the Pacers wouldn’t have even MADE the playoffs last year if Johnson hadn’t picked up the slack at PG down the stretch, when Tinsley got hurt. He led the Pacers to a 4-3 record, which got them the 8th seed in the East.

9) He only has 1 year left in his contract after this year, which will make him easy to trade next year if we decide to move him.

10) If you need any more proof that this was a bargain, consider that Dallas had to give up 3 players to get Johnson last year.

By A Thinking Fan

February 22, 2007 07:26 PM | Link to this

What’s going on in Hawks’ land these days? Same old, same old - oh well. WHAT! Clyde has a sale going on for T-shirts!

By Anakin Joe

February 22, 2007 08:29 PM | Link to this

Ando, I have no fondness for BK. At the same time, there is absolutely no reason to dissect everything that he does. If you were the GM, you would not expect for fans nor the media to determine your employment status. You would look for your bosses to determine if you are a worthy employee or not. Anyone else’s opinion is irrelevant.

I’m guessing that the owners are looking at this guy and seeing someone who has failed in the past 2 drafts. I am guessing the are seeing someone whose second option at PG was the wrong choice (keep in mind he went after Cassell first). But I also think they see someone who made a very good signing in Zaza, a good ‘04 draft and executed the JJ and Harrington transactions per their direction. They also see someone who has not “ratted” them out by stating what every savvy insider has finally figured out, that the Hawks are constrained by owners who put their sole All-Star on a commercial flight to Las Vegas. How many times have we read about owners who butt into player transactions? BK stays above that disloyal nonsense.

Finally, the fact that they (ownership) can;t replace him is yet another reason he maintains his job. SO I tend not to dwell on the 59th pick in a previous draft or yell at him for not disobeying his boss’ wishes.

For the 10 minutes that Speedy has been healthy, he is clearly the best of the 3 veteran PGs on this team. He is purely disruptive on defense ad has shown the ability to utilize the athletes around him. I did not question the siging at the time and I won’t criticize the signing now. (But I will criticize Speedy for being more fragile than a glass from the Dollar Tree).

Nope, BK is not a good GM from my perspective. But I recognize quite clearly that my perspective is irrelevant. Likewise, I can see his value to his employers. Sure, he’s made some awful errors. His refusal to draft a young PG in the last 3 drafts is at th top of the list. But again, yelling at the rain only leaves you wet and with a sore throat.

Instead, I’ll support this team, warts and all. And rail against you with every opportunity.

GO HAWKS!

By mykhalc

February 22, 2007 08:53 PM | Link to this

MATT, your #5 item has gotta be waaaayyyy off. the NBA is not made up of all #1 picks , right??? so they gotta come from somewhere else in the draft then!!! and your goin’ back to the last 3 drafts doesn’t really cover it either!!

i get the point you are tryin’ to make but the fact is that the cats drafted outta the 1st round might not be tearin’ it up but there are quite a few that are solid contributors to their teams needs!!!

my point was/is, the HAWKS DO NOT even get that kinda of contribution from their #2’s!!! WHY NOT I ASK????? did i hear someone say WOODSON!!!?????

By HB Ando

February 22, 2007 09:21 PM | Link to this

Ahh, seems like a good time for an Igoudala update. The man Joe says is none superior to Josh Childress. While folks here are talking about what a smooth job Chills did running the point, Igoudala, has quietly put up numbers that rival a good Jason Kidd run (for comparison’s sake, Kidd is averaging 14 points 8.8 assists and 8 rebounds this season).

Iggy’s February goes like this: 20.3 points, 9.1 assists and 7 boards, with 1.4 steals thrown in for good measure. Childress, on the other hand, despite initiating the offense quite frequently over the last month, is averaging 12.3 points 6 boards, and 2.3 dimes. Now he’s a solid sixth man, but let’s stop being ridiculous, Joe. There’s simply no credible comparison between Igoudala and Childress. I’ve been saying Iggy was an emerging star (something you can hear from just about any NBA insider, around the country) since I first came here. It would be different if Childress was playing behind a star, or contributing to a much better team. But both these squads are bottom feeders, so that’s just not the case. For all Childress’ supposed attributes, he still can’t work his way past Marvin Williams, who continues to be underwhelming at best.

You’re giving Billy’s loyalty far too much credit. It’s his only job security. Your suggestion that my opinion, or anyone else’s, not a part of the Spirit ownership group, is irrelevant is pretty funny. You’re actually deferring to the very people you continue to blame for all the Hawks problems. That’s kind of like saying you’ll defer to Satan, because he runs hell, so he’s well within his rights to torture the souls of the damned, and who are we to comment.

What a bunch of hogwash, sir. You’ve simply got nothing but your opinion that his lack of activity is a direct edict from ownership. Nothing. It’s simply a convenient and plausible excuse for you to argue with my position.

The 59th pick? Haven’t mentioned it in forever. That’s a nice, weak attempt at minimizing the scope of my concerns. If that was the least of his sins, we wouldn’t be having this pointless conversation. Long ago, you made a choice to take issue with my overall perspective. You haven’t relented. So here we are. You like to take issue with my opinion. With nothing else to do here, as this team continues to sink into oblivion, I guess we’ll just take each other to task. You’ll keep flip-flopping like a carp on the bank. You’ll keep trying to slide out of your position to save face (Shaq will average 11 and 8. Oh, but if they are losing and he’s producing big numbers, well, big deal-Sliiiiiiidddddde, Flooooooop). And I’ll just keep taunting you with the facts.

You really should change your name to Fed-Ex Joe (yeah, Joe, we get French benefits).

By Chris D'

February 22, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this

Lorenzo Wright is an upgrade from Edwards and Anthony Johnson is an upgrade from Royal Ivey. Unfortunately at this rate of progression we will need to do about 5 more incremental upgrades at the 1 and 5 to be competitive.

Anthony Johnson might put up career numbers and average 5 assists and 10 points for us over the next year and a half. Excuse me if I am not excited. He should be about half as productive as 4 to 6 of the PG’s we have passed on in the draft over the last 2 years.

If we stock pile enough backup point guards maybe we can make a blockbuster trade next year and package them for a backup forward or two.

By Clyde

February 22, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Man I fell sorry for Anthony Johnson. Dallas has chance to win it it all. I wonder if he will pull a Gary Payton and not show up.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By ray

February 22, 2007 11:59 PM | Link to this

Ando,

I only take issue with one thing you said, and that’s in regard to Childress’ apparent inability to work his way past Marvin Williams. And really, I’m not taking issue with you on this one. I see it as Woodson’s fault. Childress is a better consistent rebounder, scorer, assist guy, and defender than Marvin. Yet he comes off the bench as long as Marvin’s healthy. That’s because they keep giving Marvin chances to be what we all want/hoped he would/will be. Meanwhile, when either Smoove or Marvin needs to head to the bench (or one of the guards), it’s almost a luxury to be able to bring in the high-energy Childress. I mean, Chill beats Marvin in every statistical category except free throw %. How else do you explain it other than coach’s choice? Right now, how can one say that Marvin is the better player? You’re a man of facts and there just AIN’T no facts to prove it. And I don’t even want to talk about upside…While I think that comparing Chill and Iggy is a waste of freakin’ time and a dumb argument, you can’t sell the man short because of what the coach (and probably GM) are doing.

Okay. I’m sure many of you read this article about the “quick fix.” For those of you who didn’t, as well as those who did, here’s a refresher:

While Billy has said that if the Hawks do anything at all, it won’t be a “quick fix” thing, he also apparently made these statements:

“You have to do something that makes sense. It has to make sense. It can’t be something that helps you this season but penalizes you going forward.”

Really. Is that so. Yeah, I can hear it now, I’m using these statements to support my bias about Knight and anything else in general. I think those words, coupled with several actions and inactions just speak for themselves. Make of it what you will.

By Richie Rich

February 23, 2007 12:03 AM | Link to this

BK said he would make a trade, only if it made sense for the future, and that he did not want a quick fix, then how in the hell does getting Anthony Johnson help out in the future? Does anybody on this blog believe he will still be playing after his contract is up? Why waste a second round pick on a washed up veteran.

I mean what was Boston asking for Telfair? He is their 3rd string pt gaurd, they couldn’t be asking for that much…a much better option than Johnson.

By ray

February 23, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Still, as long as Billy’s here, we may as well trade a second round pick. I’ll take AJ over another Cenk Aykol any day. AJ may provide what Lue does with more size, but he’s not very costly and he’ll play consistent minutes if Woodson lets him. If he shows. He might be cursing Cuban as we speak and turning up that bottle of Grey Goose.

By ray

February 23, 2007 01:29 AM | Link to this

You know, Richie, I’ve been yappin’ about getting one of Boston’s young pgs for several months now. It’s not even important that nobody HERE noticed. What’s important is that nobody in management likely even considered it.

By G Money

February 23, 2007 05:54 AM | Link to this

You just have to scratch your head after the recent move. Why another back up to the back up who was supposed to take the place of the back up who played ahead of the back up who still sits on the bench? If you think my rhetorical question doesn’t make any sense, neither does this. I like the analogy of the band aid over a gunshot wound that someone used earlier. Someone needs to be a man, admit there were some mistakes made, and discuss what the Hawks will be doing to repair things long term. If I were a season ticket holder (and I was at one time), I’d be really angry and letting my feelings be known. This blog is actually somewhat effective. Look, Sekou mentions Anthony Johnson and low and behold, they throw us a bone. Nonetheless, season ticket holders are twice as important, and if a lot of people started really complaining, some things might start happening.
Right now this stinks really bad. It’s not because we are losing; it’s because we’re losing and don’t seem to have a clue. Whatever the plan was, it ain’t working. We need a new one and need it to be strategic and not based on hunches, Uncle BoBo’s rabbit’s foot, or Dominique and BK playing on the OUIJA board. I don’t even think the Spirit, as ignorant as they might be about basketball, can have such severe myopia that they can’t see what ain’t happening.
It’s disgusting, despicable, and what’s worse, I’m still a fan.

By tb

February 23, 2007 06:31 AM | Link to this

Anakin Joe,

Hear hear!

I’ve stopped reading his posts except for an occaisional look over.

He reminds me of the network news, you always know what their going to talk about and it’s always negative.

By Anakin Joe

February 23, 2007 09:46 AM | Link to this

Did the Hawks have a need to improve their PG situation? Yes. Did they do something to address it? Yes. That, in and of itself, is an improvement in the way things have been run. When was the last time we traded for an asset that could help us immediately?

Also, what if we don’t know everything as bloggers? What if we don’t know that Lue may not play for another few weeks? What if we don’t know if Salim is walking the fine line between playing and another “conduct detrimental to the team” suspension? What if the Hawks want to reduce Speedy’s time to less than X minutes a game so that he can maintain some semblance of health? Unlike the other long winded fellow, I readily admit that I don’t know as much as team officials. (And by the way, reading opinion reports written by non-scouts is slightly more valuable than consulting a website for a medical diagnosis. No, I have never personally read a scouting report by a scout employed by an NBA team, and I doubt many others around here have either). So instead of railing based on my limited knowledge as a passionate fan, I will applaud the fact that effort was put forth to address a need. There are fans from about 25 teams this morning who are wondering why their GM didn’t do a damn thing to help their team win one more game this season.

By Anakin Joe

February 23, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Ando you left out one stat for Iggy in February. 37% Field Goal Shooting. Yeah, we’ve never seen a volume shooter on a really bad team score a lot of points before. Yessir, that is one incredible player there. No way could any other player in the league shoot 37% and score 20 points for a team going no where. I stand corrected. Can we trade JJ for Iggy? We may have to throw in Shelden and Childress, but he’s obviously worth it. A bonfide franchise player they got right there in Philly.

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 10:07 AM | Link to this

Anakin Joe - I like that last post. most of us switch back and forth like the wind with each win or loss. I have stayed true to one thought all year. I want to see the team improve, and I think they have over last year. I just do not get all of this fire Billy crap. I have no personal connection to him or reason to love him but I think he is doing a good job. He’s gotten us some nice pieces. We still have huge needs, but we all know that. First class centers dont come along every day.

The idea that Utah started rebuilding at the same time we did is crap!! Utah has a hall of Fame Coach, great fan base and already had 3 times as much talent to start with.

I will say this again….We have great pieces, this offseason will be the crucial point to determine BK’s worth. Everyone on the planet knows what we need. Lets see what we can do in the draft and free agency. I have no dreams of playoffs this year but truly believe we can make a real push next year if we do the right things in the offseason.

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Childress had 4 years of school right? Josh had none and truly blossomed this year. Marvin had one year of school and this is his second year (which he started off injured.) I think he gets a pass for one more season before we should jump off that bandwagon.

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this

TO YOU SOLOMON LOVERS….Are you watching the same games that I am? He looks lost! This isnt to say he wont develop, but he needs to EAT and hit the weight room a while before we start begging to put him in. You grasping for straws there.

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 10:16 AM | Link to this

ANDO & JOE- Have you noticed we’ve played several teams lately with really good players from the D-league that have been brought up? Arent there any Big bodies in the D-league that could help us out? You’d think we could find a couple of poor man’s Ben Wallaces around there somewhere. You know, someone who may not be an offensive presence but takes up space, can give a good hard foul and casts a shadow!!! Just a thought.

By Anakin Joe

February 23, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Brian L, the one bad thing about the Anthony Johnson trade is that we now have a full roster and cannot sign a NBDL player. But I agree that we should have looked at a big from that league earlier. I read that Loren Woods has been playing well of late. But at the same time, we don’t seem to play the few big bodies we currently have and I don’t know if that’s because they are not good or because Woody prefers small line-ups. I suspect the latter. And while Solomon definitely needs to hang with me for a few months to gain weight (but probably not the right kind of weight), I’d still give the young guy some time if for no other reason than to exhaust his 6 fouls.

By ray

February 23, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this

Can’t wait to see the Ando reply on this one. I’m thinkin’ ohhh….17 paragraphs.

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

yeah, he does have a few fouls to give…Personally I think the trade makes Royal and Salim expendable. Trade them both for another big somewhere. I’d love to have Dsagana Diop or someone similar.

By honest_abe

February 23, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

iggy sucks! iggy’s great! NO iggy sucks! NO IGGY’S GREAT! pretty much sums up the great debate between ando and aj..lol seriously who the hell cares… he probably fits in somewhere right in the middle of both of your beliefs.. i don’t think a single player in the nba gets talked about as much outside of this hawks roster on this hawks blog as much as IGGY. iggy is a good player. he’s getting better. praise iggy all you want but then that means you should also be giving billy king his props too for having such a great eye for talent. look at the mess he’s made up there in philly.

brian: chills left as a junior. as for the solomon lovers.. you’re missing their point which is we’re not getting any production from out front line anyway.. so why not put in our athletic 2nd rounder and give him some minutes. will he get pushed around sure…. but it’s not like the hawks are winning right now anyways. people just want to see some interior d.

as for your last statement ” You know, someone who may not be an offensive presence but takes up space, can give a good hard foul and casts a shadow”

we already got someone like that..sounds exactly like lo wright!!!!

bring in a new coach and it automatically improves this team by 5 wins easily…

By Brian L.

February 23, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

Abe- Yeah, thats what I mean, ANOTHER LO Wright. He’s too old to play the whole game. We need an 8 year younger LO Wright to help him. ZaZa is good for 12 minutes a game, but not our cornerstone.

My bad on the Chills comment. I thought he was in school all 4 yrs.