Hawks

By Lifelong Hawks Fan

May 14, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

No Hawks talk at all???

By Ernest

May 14, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Here’s hoping for the #1 and #11 picks from the draft lottery!!!

By Theo

May 14, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this

I enjoy watching the Big Fundamental and his cohorts demolish the run-and-gun-Suns. I still think the Jazz are a dirty team (remnants of the 90’s) but I am glad they’re obliterating GS. I’ll take fundamentals every time over a Mayo-esque game where people fly high but don’t do much else.

By Clyde

May 14, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

8 MORE DAYS. BRACE FOR THE WORSE

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By doc

May 14, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

sekou the point you bring up is valid, going way back you can see that argument as folly as one of the best of his time bob petit always finished at least second to the celts of old. could anyone say that the big o wasnt the best or among them if he hadnt gotten his ring just because the franchise he was with happened to fall into the lew alcindor draft pick when they were both in milwuakee? it also held true for the west, elgin combo that never one the big one until an old wilt was paired with an even older bench player in elgin baylor and the still a playa jerry west. if they hadnt done it and gotten their ring could you discredit them?

dirk, steve nash and t-mac havent been in the same situation with a deep squad around them like a duncan has, just the same duncan and the “really greats” like mj or bill russsell comes up huge in the big games so one has to make the argument that he has an even greater glow as he does it time after time after time ….. these “really greats” guys are in a completely different category that doesnt discredit the others like barkley or malone, just a higher ethereal plane.

By Dan

May 14, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Sekou

The tougher teams win. End of story. The Suns are cute and so are the Warriors, but are they tough? Remains to be seen.

By Sekou K. Smith

May 14, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Good point Dan. The tougher team always seems to prevail in the NBA. That’s the thing I love about a seven game series. There won’t be a one-shining moment night that lands some team a title. You have to bring it four times in a seven game series. And if you can’t do that, you get a one-way ticket to the house.

By Anakin Joe

May 14, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Truthfully, you have to separate T-Mac from Dirk (and every other so-called great player). T-Mac has NEVER gotten out of the FIRST ROUND. Sorry, but that is a lot different than Malone, Barkley, Stockton and others who won several rounds in the playoffs but never brought home a ring.

I’m not ready to throw dirt on the Suns yet. But I will say that while their brand of ball is exciting, we’ve already learned through the Mavs and Kings that championships are won in the half-court. Nelson’s Mavs and Adelman’s Kings were the original version of the Suns. And ultimately, they failed to teams that could play defense and half-court offense. Again, the Spurs haven’t won the series yet, so let’s not call for the eulogy. But a healthy Tim Duncan is a force all by himself. What we may end-up saying after both Western series is that “a good big man (Duncan and Boozer) beats a good little man (Nash & Baron) most days of the week”.

By honest_abe

May 14, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

i was hoping the warriors pulled out last nights game to add some drama to the series and the playoffs in general. i mean the 2nd round has been somewhat exciting but i think its already become a forgone conclusion that its going to be san anton vs utah in the conference finals.

so the only series with some intrigue as to who will win the series is cleve vs new jersey. and that is the one with the least appeal. the playoffs started with such a bang and now is starting to simmer down towards the end.

i know, i know still plenty of ball left to be played.. but in terms of matchups etc it is headed towards becoming a dissappointment.

i still think the best way for the nba to fix this problem of matchups is to make a universal schedule and create playoff spots for the top 16 teams. so maybe you would lose the special aspect of not having a west vs east matchup. but i think most ball fans would rather see the top 2 teams anyway. the quality of basketball would be so much better as well as the matchups near the end. just my opinion.

the suns arent’ out but the spurs are like clockwork and getting behind in a series to them almost makes it impossible to come back. it looks like this series will go 6. unless the league office does somethign crazy like suspend bruce bowen.

there’s only one champion a year. does that negate what every other great player has accomplished that year? i don’t think so. the only thing i think is different is every top tier player has come up big in the playoffs whether they have lost or not except dirk. kobe still played big, tmac carried that rockets team, yao did ok, and then of course you have duncan, bdavis, boozer, nash, james, kidd, etc. dirk is the only guy you can’t say lead me. does he put up big numbers? sure. can he score? of course. but is he capable of carrying a team? i don’t know. is he able to make a big shot to turn around momentum? questionable. he’s good, i just don’t know if he’s great. is he even the best player on his team?

By Clyde

May 14, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

But on a more serious note the lack of fundamentals is the main problem with basketball in the US. This is more evident on the high school level where the ability to dunk outweighs the ability to shoot. High school coaches expecially in the south need to realize that putting on a show can only take a player so far.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By smartguy

May 14, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

The Warriors are far from dead. The series should be 2-2, and if GS wins game 5 at utah, then they come home for game six, which should in turn lead to a game 7. Tough? The Warriors are about as tough as you can be. The Suns? Maybe not so much.

The Hawks? I’m starting to not even care any more. Putting up with another season with Dumb & Dumber at the helm is probably more than I am willing to endure. I don’t think I’m quitting on the franchise, but that I’m taking a break until we get some competence to lead.

Clyde, you’re awesome. Has demand for shirts been high enough to add a second design? I think the Dumb & Dumber theme might be a good one to roll with. It would be up to the individual to decide who is Dumb and who is Dumber. Personally, I have seen Woody with that idiotic look on his face so much that he has to be my Dumber.

By tyger

May 14, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Playoff observations:

1) Dirk not MVP, just another scorer.

2) B. Davis illustrates effect small mkts. have on career. America has missed his body of work until now, when healthy, best guard since MJ/Magic???

3) Utah’s owner may be aloof, but Coach all business and they play that way.

4) Boozer should be example for ATL undersized BIGS, he uses every oz. of talent given to him to outplay his opponents whether bigger or smaller.

5) Winners are composed of 5 toolers: They can shoot, dribble, rebound, defend, pass. They make plays from anywhere. Even 2nd rd. steal, Paul Millsap can beat the press, penetrate and dish.

Our BIGS, wouldve gotten ripped or turned it over in some fashion or another.

By Dan

May 14, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

I think the finals will be San Antonio vs Detroit. Although, I think both the Jazz and Cavs (assuming both win their current series) will put up a fight. I really would not mind Utah getting to the finals, too.

I’m a little biased (being from Michigan, the Pistons are my 2nd favorite team behind the Hawks), but I think Detroit gets it done this year. I think they really feel like they should have won the crown last season and feel they have a lot to prove. Won’t be easy, but I think they get it done.

By the way, I think the Miami Heat were the weakest NBA champion in my lifetime (I am 31 years old). Not only did they ride the officials whistles past Dallas in the finals, but I do not even think they were the best team in the east last year. I like Shaq and Wade, but that team was just not championship great. Off topic, I know, but I just had to throw that out there. Any thoughts?

By smartguy

May 14, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

Dan, I agree. The Pistons were the best team last year. Watching them in person was very impressive, and watching them in the playoffs this year, it seems that the only thing that can stop the Pistons is a lack of motivation (which they seem to have plenty of again this year). Pistons-Warriors finals; still stickin to it.

By honest_abe

May 14, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

warriors/ pistons finals. thats funny. i’m sorry but the warriors don’t have the composure thats needed to be a championship team. tell me the last team that had that many combustible players. they’re small and they play a fun to watch but gimmicky type of game. they are tiring right before our eyes and if you didn’t notice, it looks like baron is really starting to get tired. he just didn’t have it in the 4th quarter. the jazz finish this one in five.

By Dan

May 14, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

If Golden State could have just hit a free throw late in the game on Friday this would be a great series. I think the Warriors had chances to win last night, but Friday will be the one they will be kicking themselves about this summer. I really think Utah will send them home next game. Is that on Tuesday night, but the way?

smartguy I would love to see that finals matchup, but I don’t think so. I would settle for Pistons/Jazz, though. I think it will be Pistons/Spurs, but I am just not a big Spurs fan. Much rather some other team take their place.

By honest_abe

May 14, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

i wonder how many champions there would’ve been if we play the woulda, coulda, shoulda game. bottom line the heat earned their championship. i’m not even a heat fan, i just don’t like it when people downplay a team’s title.

in my opinion the pistons from a few years ago were the weakest champion. they beat a disinterested laker team that was dealing with a feud between their two stars.

and you thought the east was weak this year? look back to when detroit won i believe that year the east hit rock bottom.

By The Flash

May 14, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this

Alonso won the Heat the Championship. That second quarter he played in the final game was spectacular. No one has ever done more for a team in a big game in one quarter than that. No one.

If its the Spurs/Pistons, and I have to believe it will be, I will personally be so worn out that I doubt that I will watch, though I think that the series will be sensational.

In the end, it could come down to Bowen. Will he be able to take Rip out; no, I did not say stop him, I said, “Take him out” and I meant it. They should throw him the hell out of the rest of the playoffs.

The only team I’d like to see play the Spurs is GS. I guarantee you that either Bowen or Jackson would end up in jail, or the hospital, or both, before game 2 was over.

To me, the most entertaining team in the playoffs hands down has been Golden State. The best team left, as much as I hate to say it, and I hate to say it a lot, Joe Dumar’s Pistons.

That said, if they keep letting Bowen play his game, he just might intimidate Rip and/or Prince enough for the Spurs to edge them out.

Predictions:

1. Before the playoffs are over, Bowen will hurt someone, reasonably badly.

2. By the time the finals come, no one will be watching.

3. The best part of the playoffs has already past. If you have to ask, you are probably braindead but it definitely was GS v. Dallas.

4. Oh, the best team this year, Dallas.

5. Coach of the year. Nellie, for the Dallas series alone. On every level, he had his team ready and let the players play, with great bench coaching to boot. Bravo!

By jp

May 14, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

i think you’re completely wrong. The suns and warriors are actually more old school than pistons or spurs. I don’t know how old you are but i don’t believe they played defense like they do now. Teams in the 70’s and 80’s and even the 90’s use to just run up and down the court putting up crazy shots. Their defense was about on par with the suns and warriors.

Suns and Warriors are more old school than any other team in the playoffs.

By honest_abe

May 14, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

lol whatever jp…

hoisting up 30 - 40 3 point shots is real old school.

By wh

May 14, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this

Burying the Suns down 2-1? Is it impossible to conceive that they win tonight and recapture home court? Duncan on the line at the end of a game is certainly no sure thing. Suns have yet to play their best game in this series. Long way to go.

By Dale

May 14, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Is it me, or does anyone else believe that coaching outshines superstardom during the playoffs. People are so quick to blame Tmac and Dirk, what about Van Gundy and Avery Johnson. Is it possible that these two great coaches were actually out-coached?

By Anakin Joe

May 14, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Maybe for their next brilliant move, the Atlanta Spirit can hire the dummy who showed his female team the Paris “Skank” Hilton sex tape for motivational purposes. That’s almost as dumb as a coach with limited offensive and shot-blocking weapons keeping Salim and Solomon buried on the bench for the first 60 games of the season.

By tyger

May 14, 2007 5:10 PM | Link to this

Any word on the ownership ruling??

By Odd Job

May 14, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

I’m not at all conflicted.I like schooled basketball,not street ball.Show me where the undisciplined players or teams are taking over.Let’s make a list of recent champs. Miami,well coached vet team,Detroit,same thing,San Antonio,same deal, Lakers,yes sir great coach vet team. So where are these punk a* teams of tomorrow ? either home or soon to be, like every season that’s where.

By Braves Fan 79

May 14, 2007 7:45 PM | Link to this

It will be Detriot vs San Antionio in the finals….but im going for the suns and warriors. As long as the hawks have a terrible Gm who does stupid stuff like trading away a very hi 2nd round pick for ANOTHER backup pointguard they will always suck. Go Rockets! yea i know my team lost a tough series to a good jazz team…but thats my team and im loyal to my team just like i am to the Braves and Falcons!

By A Thinking Fan

May 14, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Every one forgets in this discussion the role Refs & Advertisers play! The sponsors want the marquee players on the court - PERIOD! The refs allow more contact. The coaches that understand that exploit it! Phx is too cute for the PLAYOFFS…

By ray

May 14, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

Anakin Joe, I don’t know who all caught your earlier comment about “a good big man beats a good little man”, but that was a very, very interesting point. And while that is certainly up to debate, it’s a pretty astute observation. We’ll see if we get any evidence to add merit to that idea.

One week. And then we get what could be the beginning of the end…or the beginning. Or something like that.

I like both styles of play. I am more in tune with who I would like to see win (as in the team itself) than I am with who I’d like to see win based on the style they play. Of course, anyone and everyone is allowed to pick “old school” or “new school.” The question is, when the “new school” arrives (assuming it does) can you recognize it and accept it for what it is? Or can you not…

Perhaps that would tell you whether or not you truly love the game. Or if you love it as long as it’s played the way you like. Perhaps.

To me, the lack of a championship does not make a great player less than he is. Malone and Barkley were phenomenal. They were good during the regular season and the playoffs. Malone and Stockton’s teams were victims of the Jordan era. What can you say about that? So were a lot of other teams. Like those powerful, balanced Portland teams. How about those Phoenix and New York teams? I’m not saying they all get off easy because the Bulls were always winning, but you get my drift. T-Mac is hot stuff. Dirk is a great scorer. They are what they are. But neither has played long enough or phenomenally enough to be in the same position as some of the NBA greats…in my mind that is. Someone else may think differently.

As for Dirk in particular: I’m not bashing him. But his main advantage lies in the fact that he’s a 7-footer who can shoot from anywhere he likes outside and can handle the ball. Put him in the post and see if he does the same things, has the same effect on the game. Dude doesn’t even post up low as much as he should, unless he’s posting up a guy that’s giving up no less than 6 inches in height. And even then, most of the time that turns into a jump shot. What if he was as much of a threat inside as outside? What if he was a better defender?

Again, don’t get me wrong, Dirk is bad stuff for any defense. And he’s absolutely one of the game’s most dangerous offensive threats. I just don’t see him as an MVP. Honest Abe asked the tough question: is he even the best player on his team? And if so, by how much of a margin?

Right now nobody is doing it like Duncan. As Doc and several others have said, this is on a nightly basis.

Personally, I think Chris Webber was a good fit for Detroit. A good passing big man who can rebound, defend, and has a good head for the game. He helps open things up even if he can’t throw down like he used to. Fits right in to fundamental b-ball style.

By ray

May 14, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Go Rockets? No offense, but they’ve already gone….home. Began to wonder last season, and still wondering: is Yao ever going to develop that nasty streak that would make him the undisputed best big man in the business? Or have we seen all he’s going to be?

By ray

May 14, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this

Anyone who watches Williams and Boozer and can’t see some Stockton-Malone action is blind. And anyone who doesn’t see the link in that chain that is Jerry Sloan has no eyes. Proof what good solid coaching can do in conjunction with a solid roster build and talent to work with. I take that back: Sloan is a great coach. He made it through the tough times and is making lots of noise with a younger generation squad. That says something about both the players and the coach. And the relationship they have. If only we could have that in the ATL.

By doc

May 14, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

ray, you got it. webber might be the difference and the type of move that has made their gm (wont say his name in deference to my friend flash ;-) ) great, as well as emphsize that most teams are not made by the draft but in fancy negotiations or trades to blend what is missing or needed.

most thought chris dead but he isnt. funny i might be pulling for him by some nostalgic notion that maybe, just maybe it is his time to fianally get some long deserve cred and a title to finally rid him of the goat tag from his frosh college mis-step with the fab five. tell me sekou wont be pulling hard for the guy and the team with that wolverine s**t he lays out there. heh heh

with that said about sloan and his relationship to his point, would that same point be tuned to the point he is if he had been here in a hawks uni with its hand off and get out of the way offense? gee what would aj say as an answer to that one. maybe present apologist matt can come to the defense of the present regime from his law office ….. or changing diapers.

By doc

May 14, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

oh yeah, if it comes down to the spurs and the pistons even if i had a strong nastalgic notion, i wouldnt bet against t. d.; big time player underappreciated and overlooked every time until big time stage. kerr calls himself a moron for overlooking duncan in the mvp consideration completely. i agree he is a moron.

By Dr.Box

May 14, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I agree with you. The traditionalists are certainly sitting pretty in these playoffs. I do think you left out one important aspect of why the Spurs and the Pistons are handling their opponents with relative ease during the playoffs. It’s been the key to championship teams for as long as I can remember.

Defense.

San Antonio and Detroit are arguably the two best defensive teams out there, and that’s one reason I think thouse two teams will meet up in the finals.

Basically, if you want to be a championship team, the first thing that is clearly needed is a dedication to defense. That’s what I don’t see from the Suns and the Warriors. They are dedicated to playing up tempo and not to playing defense. The Spurs, Pistons, and to a lesser extent the Cavaliers, Bulls, and Jazz are all committed to playing defense. The Jazz are actually a middle of the pack defensive team, but they have the best rebounding margin of any team in the league.

In addition to defense, I think you have to have the ability to play any style offensively. I think you have to be able to push the basketball, and you have to be able to play in the half court set. The key is the dedication to playing defense though.

That’s why I’ve always said that if the Hawks are going to make that push into the playoffs, they have to dedicate themselves to playing defense. I think too many Hawks fans have visions of being an up tempo team along the lines of the Suns, Mavericks, and Warriors, but this team will have greater gains quicker when they start playing defense night in and night out.

By Wedgie Evans

May 15, 2007 12:06 AM | Link to this

I like old-school ball and street ball and street ball pretty much equally. But watching the playoffs has me thinking. In the NFL, thanks to Ron Jaworski, Merril Hoge, the Madden video games, and so on, even casual fans know about a lot of the technical aspects of the game. A lot of NFL fans can identify a 3-4 defense or a post route and know how to attack a Cover 2 defense, something which probably wasn’t true 10 years ago. But is it the same in basketball? I think a lot of casual NBA fans, or fans who haven’t played organized ball, don’t really appreciate the plays run by the Spurs and Jazz, and the kind of precise execution it takes to play at that level. Many fans watching the Spurs or Jazz probably just see two teams that don’t want to run, and don’t notice the screens and cuts that the players make to get open. Maybe if there were popular NBA video games that made you run actual plays to get players open, and if there were more analysts like Hubie Brown and Mike Fratello who made it a point to diagram what the players are doing on the floor, more people would appreciate the old-school style of play as well.

By wordsmithtom

May 15, 2007 6:03 AM | Link to this

Detroit and Utah show that you don’t need a monster center, just one who plays big. Charles Barkley comes to mind. Not even bigger than Josh Smith, but a man who feared nobody.

Thus, a lineup I’d like the Hawks to bring next fall posts JS at center with the two Williams at forward, Johnson and Childress at guard. They would be long armed like Detroit, yet able to get up the court with the Suns. Would create huge issues for anyone they played.

Also, find out if Speedy is injured and wants to compete. If not, send him and a sandwich with one of their first round picks for a solid big. Too many guards now, especially when one of them doesn’t want to play.

Good to see Knight working and keeping his mouth shut here. This team is a lot closer to being playoff material than they’ve been in years. It’s not a matter of rebuilding, but of tweeking.

By A Thinking Fan

May 15, 2007 6:41 AM | Link to this

Phx and Nash hung tough and stood-up to the rough/tough play - IMPRESSIVE! We got us a real series!

By Sekou K. Smith

May 15, 2007 7:58 AM | Link to this

Maybe the Suns are tougher than we think?

By honest_abe

May 15, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

indeed.

ray.. i don’t know if yao can be as dominate as some people would like. you have to understand as great as it is to be 7’6, it has it’s downside as well. running up and down the court for someone thats 7’6 can’t be that easy. also its that easy for smaller players to have leverage and push against his legs. his height is an advantage and disadvantage at the same time. i think he’ll continue to improve his offensive skills but i think his overall play including defense and rebounds has gotten about as high as i think we’re going to see.

By doc

May 15, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

yes, the suns are tough. they dont lie down as proved last year without amare and challenging to go into the nba finals. it took the little man to show it. instead of amare coming off the bench would have preferred a guy like jalen rose who has contributed very little to have made the move to protect others. he is expendable, amare is not.

it will be interesting to see how the league handles a “non-fight” with movement from the benches, is there a distinction?

also will be interesting to see if the officials change the way they call things to make sure no more thuggery and only clean rugged play is tolerated.

By Anakin Joe

May 15, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this

Phoenix stole that game last night and that’s what true title contenders must do to make it to the top. Let’s see if Spurs can hang tough Wednesday in Phoenix. Spurs also need to stop drafting Euro projects late in the first round and get themselves a Salim/Eddie House type scorer. They need that Nick Van Excel/Vernon Maxwell type bench performer.

Abe, Houston would be well served to find a back-up center who can play 18-20 minutes/game. I agree that Yao’s size is a double-edged sword. Playing him for 30 minutes (at the most) would be the most prudent thing to do. Van Gundy is bailing on the team because he knows they far from competing in their conference.

7 days before the fate of the Hawks is determined. Too bad the ownership nightmare has rendered free agency virtually null and void, making us put damn near all our eggs in the draft basket.

By honest_abe

May 15, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

i agree aj. i just don’t think alston can get it done for them. that is the one piece i think they are missing. they also need to add some athleticsm. but pg is the real weakness. also, i think even more valuable than a back center would be a big powerful bruiser type to clear space down low for yao. someone like a danny fortson would be good for the rockets.

By wh

May 15, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Suns have hung tough every game this series against a good team. Still haven’t seen their best effort - Unless they get hosed on the suspensions they are going back to SA up 3-2.

By Sowega Thug

May 15, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

Basketball is changing and yeah the fundamentals are still the same but how? many players play with those fundamentals? There are no more dominant centers Shaq is the last to be able to turn his back to the basket now centers are used to float and block shots due to the fact that guards are so dominant since Jordan!!! Guards lack the fundamentals say the the olympic team that got smoked all have athletic ability but no fundamentals the jump shot is extinct from basketball these days cause David Stern and the NBA opened the draft and most kids are going to jump because most of your best players are going to come from hardship enviroments so here is a child at 18 with 10 million dollars why should he keep working on his game he’s rich for life or least he thinks they never get better look at Tracey Mcgrady the best NATURAL athlete in the NBA but does not work on his game and can still hit 30 on any given night, now take a look at KOBE good atheltic ability but works every year to bring something new to the table in his game that is what separates him from the rest he’s not settling he strives to be the best this is whats missing they aren’t like Magic Jordan Bird and Kareem actually they are more athletic but they are not as determined to be the best its all about money!!!! They are RICH KIDS NOT PROFESSIONALS they haven’t got to that point yet they forgot about the GRIND that got them there no one wants to work on what they CAN’T DO EVERYONE wants to work on what they CAN!!!!!!

By Sowega Thug

May 15, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this

Dirk is good at what he does and that’s play the perimeter but if he’s going to play the perimeter they need another 7’0 to go to the block he’s to soft and in the clutch you need a go getter not a p***!!! Tmac is my favorite player in the game but he is to laid back he doesn’t work everything Mcgrady can do now he could do when he first came in the league he doesn’t work as hard on the things he can’t do well cause he’s not a student of the game he just plays it whenever he decides that he wants to become a student you will see Tracey be the most dominant Guard to ever play the game there is no one better than him not even KOBE far as god given ability but he lets Kobe out work him thats what separates the two

By sowega Thug

May 15, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

The hawks are my favorite team in ATL but they are dumb in the front office!!! they showed how dumb and selfish they were when they let dominique go he was to retire a hawk they showed him no love!!! They have good talent in ATL they need a veteran leader go pick up Jumaine Jones do him that favor he’s a veteran and from GA who has yet to come out they did it for sorry Deion Glover who was trash or Shareef Abdoul Raheem either or both bring leadership and a home crowd with Josh Smith

By Jameyan

May 15, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Can anyone tell me if the Hawks are getting new uniforms this season because everywhere I look Hawks items are on sale?

By honest_abe

May 15, 2007 1:39 PM | Link to this

this is nash’s chance to officially legitimize his 2 mvp’s. most true hoopheads i think give him his due and understand just how valuable he is to the suns. they also understand how much better he makes them.

but what’s been nash’s biggest knocks?

1. he’s not tough enough in the playoffs. well i think after a bloody nose, a knee to the gonads and a blind cheap shot by big shot rob. and he still gets up time after time.

2. he can’t get his team over the hump. i’ll admit i thought the suns were done and they still might very well be especially if stoudamire gets suspended, but last night in the 4th quarter nash might have just saved the suns season and his legacy.

3. he doesn’t play good defense. i think there’s a difference between being indifferent on defense and being overmatched. i think nash puts a lot of effor into trying to get himself into the right spot, playing the lanes etc. but limited physical ability is what it is. and he sometimes just isnt’ able to guard some opponents. besides he’s an adequate defender, not good my any terms but adequate and his offensive prowess outweighs any defencies in his game.

steve nash, should have been mvp again. he’s legit and he proved it last night. big stars show up big when it counts and he was right there leading his team back against those mean, ugly spurs.

anyone else enjoying the physicalness of this series. it harkens memories of the days of ny vs miami, the bulls vs detroit…. nothing like a little bit of bad blood brewing between the teams, to make a more entertaining series. because we sure arent’ going to be entertained by any of the other series. zzzzzzzzzzzz

By Anakin Joe

May 15, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

Abe, I had the privilege of attending a Heat/Knicks playoff game while I lived in NJ in the 90s. It was by far the most hostile crowd I’ve ever witnessed (even more than the Forsythe residents during the Hosea march). The Heat won that game and I was certain that I would die that night as 18,000 rabid fans seemed ready to storm the court. The one thing missing from the Spurs/Suns series is the aura of a crazed fan base ready to do anything to support their team.

By honest_abe

May 15, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

aj: i’ve never been to a playoff game. i can only imagine what it must’ve been like at one of those miami/ny games. craziness.

i think the overall passion for the league is down. i remember packed out houses in the 90’s… the crowds just seemed a little more “daunting”? what did nbc used to have those stupid sound meter things. heh. utah used to crank it up pretty loud. basketball reached its pinnacle in the jordan days and fell quite a ways before recovering here in the last two years. i think basketball is slowly working its way back into grabbing the avg fans interest. just in time to watch our hawks come into prominence.

HA, ya right!

By Ryder

May 15, 2007 7:38 PM | Link to this

Wh- looks like the Suns are done for game 5. Stoudamire & Diaw are suspended and barring a complete meltdown by San Antonio they’re going back home with a chance to close it out. You hate to see this happen but rules are rules and until the NBA changes it they can’t afford to be lenient just because it’s the playoffs.

By A-ville Ranger

May 15, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

I agree defense is key in the playoffs.There’s one thing that is more key and that is you need at least one great player, most champs have two but one is almost mandatory.Only one champion in thirty years did it with out one or more of the 50 all time best,that being Detroit two years ago.Before the pistons you have to go back to Seattle in the mid-70s.Think about it Jordan,Shaq,Duncan,Magic,Bird,Thomus, Hakem, that’s 25 titles between them.Before that Doc, Moses,Russell,Wilt,West,Walton,etc were just as dominant.The NBA is a stars league more than any other team sport.So look at the team with the all time greats and lay your money down,unless the Pistons do it again.

By GT80

May 15, 2007 11:40 PM | Link to this

I’m torn watching these playoffs because I continue to see the indictment of Billy Knight. I’m sure we could all write the post with the string of moves by Billy that have elevated other teams while keeping the Hawks at the bottome of the league. Man, the Hawks better get lucky in the Lottery or else it’s going to be so sickening I don’t know if anybody will want season tickets.

I notice about the playoffs is that every team remaining, except Cleveland, has has a very solid if not spectacular PG. I’d say Henrich/Duhon combo is the weakest but they did pretty well tonight against Billups. And Cleveland has Lebron and their coach figured out how to get the ball into his best players hand 60% of the time and his 2nd best 30% of the time. To win in this league you have to have the PG in order to win. Why Billy has never figured this out is a mystery

By smartguy

May 16, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this

YES, Billy Knight is an idiot. More so is Mike Woodson, and possibly dumbest of all is the Spirit Group themselves. Please, Maryland Judge.

By ray

May 16, 2007 8:52 AM | Link to this

Abe I think you got the Rockets pegged, my man. With Yao being limited stamina-wise and his seeming inability to bring it mean in the post…they GOTTA have another bruiser in there. And Juwan Howard ain’t it.

Joe, yeah all our eggs are in the draft basket ‘til otherwise notified. If we have any eggs, that is. If you think about it, even our free agency and trade options are in some ways tied to what is or is not about to happen draft-wise. Not completely, but partially. Good draft slots open up trade opportunities. But again, it’s all about whether he have those slots and what the gm does with them. Can you say “vote of no confidence?” I dunno, we’ll see….

By Anakin Joe

May 16, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the Jazz. That’s a team worth modeling. Tough, balanced and smart with enough razzle-dazzle to draw in the casual fan. Nice squad. Great coach. If they add someone like Mo Pete in the off-season, they will be a true force in the Western Conference.

Nice statement by the Bulls also. Pistons have lost their focus and sense of urgency. I’m predicting Pistons beat them by 15 (at least) in Game 6 in Chicago.

By jhan

May 16, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

Bulls should be up 3-2 in the series. They really blew game three in the second half. I’m pulling for the Bulls, but I agree that the Pistons will come out focused in game 6.

By honest_abe

May 16, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

i found it pathetic how lackadaisical the pistons have come out in the past 2 games. never have been a huge flip saunders fan and i just don’t think he’ll ever win the big one. as good as the pistons are, one thing is for certain they are borderline horrible without billups on the floor. they can go through long droughts where nobody can be counted on to score. sheed doesn’t take over games like he’s capable of. webber is showing his age. prince is nice complimentary player and where the hell has rip been? i thought detroit would sweep but the past two games billups has been in foul trouble and the pistons have shown that there are vulnerable. the bulls just got some confidence back and with a hopping home crowd i expect this series to go 7. which is a crying shame and some of that responsibility has to fall on the coaches shoulders for not having them prepared.

once golden st. lost game 4 it was forgone conclusion that series was going to end. great job by the warriors. not to take anything away from their accomplishment but they just met a perfect opponent in the 1st round. a great matchup for them and probably only one of two teams they had a realistic chance of beating, the lakers being the other. as great a coach as nellie has been and as exciting as it is to watch his teams play, nellieball doesn’t equal championships.

aj: yes those jazz are built right. good mix of youth and veterans. great draft picks along with smart free agent signings. damn, and i don’t even know who their gm is. anybody want to help me out?

how retarded were those suspensions. way to kill the drama of the most intruiging series of the playoffs, mr. stern! retarded is an understatment, its a downright travesty! you penalize a team in an incident in which their player could have gotten hurt. some rules are meant to be broken and that stupid rule was one of them. stupid stupid stupid!

adelman is making his rounds. get him into the A ASAP!!!! ownership problems my arse.. i’m getting sick of that crap, if you guys (100 owners) can’t afford the team, sell it to belkin! this is the only franchise happy with its incompetent coach.

By wh

May 16, 2007 12:28 PM | Link to this

It does look like the Suns are in deep for game 5. Still, they are at home and I have a sneaking suspicion that there might be some home cooking from the Refs. Tough break - Biggest game of K Thomas’ life.

By Anakin Joe

May 16, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I waxed a few weeks ago about the Hawks missing out on quality coaching prospects due to the summer court proceedings. More harmful than not drafting, signing or acquiring that player or this player, will be missing out on a proven offensive minded coach like Adelman who could design a sheme to optimize this roster.

Have you ever noticed that we never read about Hawks players working out with Tim Grover or those other “big named” trainers? Why don’t we read about Childress or Solomon working with some renowned dietician to gain weight? Or how Josh Smith or Marvin are working with someone to improve their ability to shoot off the dribble?

One last point, Herb Brown will be working with the Brazilian National team in a few weeks. Don’t be surprised if we end up drafting Tiago Splitter at #11. I’m guessing Brown will be intrigued by the defensive-minded big man and will influence BK to bring him in.

Hey Sekou, how about a feature on David Andersen and Cenk Akyol?

By Clyde

May 16, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By doc

May 16, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

can we expect a “make up call” from the refs tonight. i hope so. stern has affected the integrity of the whole nba championship if the spurs go on to win the whole thing. there was no fight or altercation could have been the determination with a firm warning that the rule would be enforced. or he could have suspended duncan for his reaction to another non-fight but he didnt thereby asserting his ego onto the game.

i wont expect the suns to roll over. they played a long season and came close to getting to the finals last year without amare even though nash was severey hobbled with a very bad ankle sprain. diaw isnt the man he was last year so he isnt the loss this year that he would have been last year. remember, kurt thomas was also essentially out for the season last year along with amare but they still went a long way therefore they may be a bit stronger this year last year at this point. at least they are at home. i hope they have a designated goon or a guy to step up into that designation just like it is imperitive to get a designated driver for when you go out to do serious drinking.

btw, stern is being extremely defensive in his response to dan patrick right now on his decision. he and dan are really going after it.

By Ryder

May 16, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

doc, stern went Vince McMahon on Patrick during that interview! I give Patrick credit for asking the tough questions though. Unfair as it may be, rules are rules and Amare should’ve known better. As Stern said, it would’ve been fine if he took one or two steps to see what was going on, but he took at least 20 steps to where the altercation took place.

So for anyone complaining that this series will be tainted because of what happened in the 4th quarter, that will be on Amare for using poor judgement. That being said I fully expect Phoenix to come out tonight on all cylinders and win. As long as they have Nash the Suns will always be a threat.

By doc

May 16, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

ryder, dan toed the line there as he works for stern in one sense as he hosts part of the nba telecasts doesnt he? many in similar situations of being hired to do a job and then criticize the boss as part of the journalisic integrity have been canned. look only to the golf channel and how they rid themselves of their long time host when he had the audacity to criticize the king, palmer. if you heard it right it seemed that dan after the altercation made some attonement and did a back step or two to save the commish’s face.

there was room for the commish to use better judgemnet on this one. he hid behind the statement that if the rule was changed he wouldnt mind it. how many times has he done what is right in the eyes of the nba and used his own judgement in spite of the rules, that is what the commmish is there for ftre all. that is where he dropped the ball he could have and that is why he was soooo defensive right from the first question. he knows he is guilty on this one. funny after he slammed the “mind” of barkley, the round mound came in and said that stern was the best commish in professional sport thereby discrediting a compliment. go figure.

By Ryder

May 16, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

to be fair doc, I think that because dan technically works for the nba that he knew he couldn’t go after the commish the way some would have wanted. I do see your point in how stern at times has made judgement calls above the nba rules, and this is where the bigger problem lies. you can’t have one man make all these decisions because eventually there will be a situation that is not so black and white (such as this one). only in a sense where there are two sides arguing over a decision should he step in.

however, he has total authority over what happens and I think it will hurt the product overall. I think they will take a further look at this issue and hopefully the owners will ask for an amendment on this rule, if only to ensure that future goons will not affect the integrity of the game by taking out the best players intentionally.

By doc

May 16, 2007 6:39 PM | Link to this

ryder, though it might not have sounded lke it i was in agreement with you and your comments. just dialogue. again if the spurs win it all it will go down as the second heist of an nba championship by this rule though the first time it happened there actually was a fight, this was not a fight or even an altercation in my eyes. the cameras werent on the spurs bench either to SEE whether they left the bench or not. silly rule really stupid interpretation by a pretty smart guy. no matter what he says the commish wants to be in the action and this is the only way stern can when he makes rulings like this one.

By JohnD

May 16, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

Discipline, rebounding and defense win in basketball and the playoffs prove the point year after year.

Boris Diaw and Amare Stoudemire were aware of the rules, and though you admire their willingness to step up for a teammate, the bravado may cost the Suns the series. The Commissioner had no choice under the rules.

The Lakers won with a team that exuded “showtime” under Magic but remember those Lakers also had Michael Cooper and James Worthy, defense-minded scorers with Kareem in the middle.

Discipline, defense and rebounding can carrry a team to a title with limited offense. Unlimited offense without the other three will fail.

By ray

May 17, 2007 5:31 AM | Link to this

Draft results for the Hawks is going to do one of two things: either re-expose the coaching failure that is Woodson, or make him look better temporarily. If we have a very good draft position and manage to get a player(s) that really does help things, then we win a few more and for a few moments, Woody looks better…at least to management. If not, then the team does not improve (unless somehow through free agency or trade) and the same result is what we end up with. Why? Because…unless a gazillion injuries happen again, it will be obvious if there is no progress made. And I have no reason to believe that significant progress will be made under his direction.

Yes, we need to plug the right holes with the right guys. But it only goes well for so far if the leadership and guidance of the head coach is no different/better than it was this season.

By smartguy

May 17, 2007 6:54 AM | Link to this

ray ray! Great point on the draft affecting Woody. Depending on who we get he will either be further exposed as the sub-par coach that he is, or he will look a little better for the short term. Either way, I think we agree that this team is not going anywhere significant with Mike Woodson as Head Coach.

Another great point: Woody’s shortcomings are going to be clear and unmistakeable only when this team doesn’t have any injuries. As long as there is the injury card to play, Woody is more than happy to use that excuse and the Spirit are more than willing to buy it.

I know that no one ever looks, but I checked out the Hawks homepage the other day. It has a headline article titled “Season in Review,” then goes on to highlight that “the injury bug was too much to overcome.” This is such a joke. As if we stayed healthy we would have had a successful season? I don’t think so.

Look, Spirit, you may be buying this crap, and that is fine as you get to make the decisions, but you must know the fans are not drinking the kool-aid. We can watch for ourselves, and we too get to make our own decisions. We’re tired of the results produced from the leadership in place; if we se no hope (as in no changes), then we can no longer be drug down in this flaming mess of a franchise.

FIRE SPIRIT!

By wh

May 17, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

Smart guy - I agree that the spin the Hawks put on this lousy product is laughable. Everyone has their moment of clarity in regards to willingness to continue to shell out to support the team. I had near center court uppers for a few seasons. My moment of clarity came during a visit from the Lakers when I looked around and there was @4-5K people left, late 3rd and the Lakers had doubled up the score +1 point. At this point I saw the Hawks as an IQ test and realized, damn I’m failing. Went to a couple of more games that year, giving away tickets (which is harder than you would think)to the rest of the schedule. I haven’t been back to a game since, though I do still tune in to watch. Unfortunately, I never need to watch a full game as it is obvious they are over matched most nights (though they did wind up in some dogfights with some of the elite teams including some big wins). Things are so bad that despite having tons of cap room, Hawks can’t lure a big time free agent. Getting lucky and getting Oden could lead to a big time guard (Billups?) deciding to take a chance on the Hawks. Despite the fact that Durant is a terrific player I really believe that the trickle down means Oden or bust. Likely irrelevant mathematically so an unfinished project at 11 and no free agent is the probable future for 07/08 and we will be back to hoping for ping pong balls after a 10% improvement (hopefully) to 33 wins. Go Hawks (sigh).

By mike

May 17, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Well thought I would chime with the playoff winding down and the draft creeping ever so close.

Ray and Doc thanks for the shout out from my last post.

I still remain committed to the Hawks. Not for the Spirit, Not for BK, and definitely not for Woodson. When I was in the military and traveled the country and the world it was easy for me to cheer for other teams.

I have always loved the game of basketball. Atlanta is my and the Hawks are my team. I support the guys that put that uniform on and go out and play every night. The marquee guys get to choose who they play for, most of the young guys in the draft don’t. I may not agree if they should have been drafted, or do they fit the team needs, but once they put that Hawks uniform on there are part of my team. That doesn’t mean I’m happy with the current state of the team. There have been some very poor decisions made by the Spirit. They deserve all the criticism they’re receiving. It’s probably poetic justice because the guy from Texas had an agreement to buy the Hawks and Time Warner reneged on the deal.

Whether Belkin or who ever takes over the team. I’m going to still support the Hawks. I just don’t think this team is that far away from being competitive. Most of the young guys on the Hawks teams are good character guys so I expect them to continue to work on their game and improve. I don’t think its Oden or bust. Hiebbert, Hartford, Hawes, Conely, Crittenton, and Law can all fill a need the Hawks have. Even with the Indy pick one of those are possible. I’ll wait to see what transpires in the off seasons.

I wish GS were still in the playoff they were a joy to watch. The Jazz continues to garner more respect as a defensive team. Still think it will be SA and Detroit in the finals. I want to wish everyone the best. Come back and support my Hawks next season.

By Dan

May 17, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Ryder and JohnD

Here is my problem with Stern’s ruling. First, this is very extreme. Stoudemire and Diaw each had one foot on the court. That was it.

Second, they never even touched a Spurs player. Despite what Stern said on Dan Patrick’s show, the coaches did restrain the two players. I thought that was a bush league move by Stern to call out the coaches for not restraining the players. They did restrain the players.

I usually like David Stern, but in this case he was just wrong. Throw in the apperance on the Dan Patrick show and he looks like a complete ashole. He was flexing his muscle, trying to show everyone how tough he is, but didn’t like it when he had to take sht for it. That is why he was on Dan Patrick’s show blaming the coaches and saying “I had no choice with the rules”.

Stern just crapped the bed with that ruling and basically ruined the series.

By Clyde

May 17, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

I predict the Hawks will get snubbed in this year’s draft.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Anakin Joe

May 17, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Clyde, so you’re predicting the Pacers get a top 3 pick? NO WAY!

By Ryder

May 17, 2007 7:19 PM | Link to this

Good point Dan. Stern knew the rule was not just and that’s why he was adamant in defending it on the Dan Patrick show. As Patrick said today this league is always based on interpretation (traveling vs. non-traveling, foul vs. no-foul) and as a result this is another rule that may need more interpretation.

Clyde I really do hope Atlanta gets snubbed in this year’s draft altogether. Since there is no chance of this ownership deal being resolved before the rapture I’m looking forward to having this conversation with you all again same time next year about how Atlanta still doesn’t have a PG or a C while winning a total of 32 games. All the time we will see JJ complaining more and more about playing for a winner and Josh Smith realizing it will never get done here.

The Spirit are not really incompetent as they are just cheap. Why fire Woodson and Bk when they would still have to pay them while actually paying a real coach & GM? No way are they doing that, so they’ll just let next season ride out and make more excuses next year.

Also since the AJC doesn’t have the b*lls to call out management it will be up to us fans who care to stay home and not waste time watching Atlanta come up with excuse after excuse.

So Clyde I really do hope Atlanta doesn’t get a pick this year in the draft. I don’t mind another year of failure if it means the end of Mike Woodson.

By ray

May 17, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

Mike, good to see you made it out okay.

Smartguy, that’s just how we see it. Woody may be a good head coach someday. Probably not tomorrow or next season. Probably not with the Hawks. The thing is, he leads this team as head coach with his teaching, doctrine, and style. I know these guys are by and large young and immature. But there are other teams out there with the same two symptoms. And they’re doing better. Part of it really is the bad roster set-up. Part of it really is injuries. But I seem to remember a time when everyone was realatively healthy and the chemistry just was NOT there. Team chemistry isn’t just players. It’s also coach. Woodson has to grow. But he has to grow at a faster rate than the players because he is a leader.

Well, while waiting for Tuesday, I get to see if my Bulls can win yet another one.

Speaking of which, Detroit is not going to win a championship this year with the way they’re playing. They really seemed like they were on a mission, and the Bulls are tough and well-coached. But, the Pistons seem to be losing focus at odd times, even at key times. They can’t do that with Cleveland or Jersey (whichever wins). They definitely can’t do that against Utah, San Antonio, or Phoenix. All three require your UNDIVIDED attention. BAR NONE. They better wake up if they want to do anything…

By A-ville Ranger

May 17, 2007 9:55 PM | Link to this

Here’s the deal with the Suns suspensions,it was the only thing Stern could do.A rule is a rule and anybody could see it was violated.It’s not about what is fair or any other thing.If you have a rule that is zero tolerance,there isn’t a choice,it had to be done.

By Dan

May 18, 2007 8:48 AM | Link to this

Ray

Come on….The Pistons were not just going to run through everyone. The Bulls are a good team and were not going to go down without a fight. I do not think The Cavs or Nets will either. I think the Pistons will beat who ever they play in the conference championship series, but it will not be easy. I think we should get ready for a 6 or 7 game series.

Just because they lost a couple of games does not mean they aren’t hungry anymore. Now, I am a little biased, as I said in a previous post, the Pistons are my second favorite team next to the Hawks. That being said, I still think they win the East and the NBA Title this year.

I am looking forward to the games tonight. I used to not like the Suns, but Stern’s BS ruling has made me side with them. I hope they find a way to pull this series out.

By chad

May 18, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this

What are the chances that Billy Knight will pass on Mike Conley Jr., Acie Law IV, and Taurean Green for another foward with upside and potential?

By Anakin Joe

May 18, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

chad, chances should be 100% that he passes on Green, who isn’t worthy of being a top 15 pick. Conley will likely be gone by #11. I’m guessing we will choose between Law, Splitter and Hawes at #11. Personally, I would throw Crittenton in that mix, just because I like big PGs.

By Theo

May 18, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Hey - now that Van Gundy’s been fired, what do you think about bringing him in here?

By doc

May 18, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

aj, crittendon fits for the hawks as there are several points to learn from over the next two years. not a bad thought. personally think points mature faster and think the safer pick is a point and a big or two from .f.a. route.

By Anakin Joe

May 18, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Theo, I personally think that Van Gundy wouldn’t be a tremendous upgrade over Woody. He’s another defensive minded coach who prefers a very conventional style of basketball. Was there anything about the way the Rockets played that was exceptional? He gets teams to play hard-nosed defense, which is what Woody is supposed to be doing here. I’d much rather have an offensive-minded coach the next time around.

Doc, experienced bigs cost a ton of money. I know fans will scream, but I expect to hear Chris Mihm’s name mention in relation to the Hawks. He should be affordable (after missing 1.5 seasons with an injuries), has a decent perimeter game and is a better shot blocker than Zaza or Magloire. No, I’m not saying Mihm gets us a title. But Mihm & Zaza would likely give us about 22/12/2 blocks for less than $8M a season. And that is tremendous value from guys not on their rookie contract.

I’d love to see what Stromile Swift would do if he played center for 30 minutes a game. I think he could be Alonzo-like in the pivot. He’s far too quick for most centers and could help with interior defense. And we could probably trade a few Varsity gift cards for him. Again, I think he would complement Zaza very well as a tandem.

By doc

May 18, 2007 6:38 PM | Link to this

aj, you and i know as well as many others you have to spend there to get fewer minutes but a team has to have more flexibility there than at any position for the cost per minute played. the hawks have had many servicible bigs come through and not sign them. dont know what they have been waiting for. if the balls drop right then we get a big with a shorter learning curve. late round bigs take longer to develop therefore i think are not the best investment since you train them for somebody else to come a long a take from you for the big bucks. funny how that works. ant argue too much against mihms as he had a reasonable year last year before the probs came. unfortunately, i think his problem was in his feet, look only to walton to see where those injuries end up in big guys. it is like trying to heal a fracture in a thouroughbred, you probably wish you could shoot them and move on because they linger. another that comes to mind is the great grant hill from duke that has cost the orlando folks a load of money. after you get mihms are you going to run him down the way you did speedy as mihms track record for injuries is worse than speedy’s?

By Anakin Joe

May 18, 2007 8:29 PM | Link to this

Doc, no, I wouldn’t run down Mihm because I would pay him around $4M to play 20 minutes a game. I’m paying $8M for a 2-headed center. I’m only down on Speedy because of his heart (or lack thereof). Too many whispers questioning his heart. So as long as Mihm doesn’t take time off for a bad haircut, then I won’t complain.

Only reason I mention Mihm is ecause I simply don’t believe we will spend real money or do anything bold (like trade for Camby or trade for Swift and play an uptempo game). Mihm fits the budget and style of the current team dynamic.

By ray

May 18, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

Dan, I’m not taking anything away from the Pistons. Did I not say they seemed to be on a mission? Thing is, even on paper I saw them beating my Bulls. They have too much experience, too much inside, and a defense that is as good or better than Chicago’s.

However, the focus comment is for playing against team’s like the Nets and the Cavs. Are the Cavs the biggest single threat in the East? No, but they have inside talent and they have a superstar in Lebron James. So, shutting down the perimeter and letting a guy like PJ Brown get some is not going to work as well. And New Jersey? How do you contain Kidd, who is playing like Nash is only king of the Western pg segment, or Carter, who can explode at any time for who knows how many points. Jefferson is no small threat. And Mikki Moore is playing the best ball of his life. All I’m saying is that Detroit has to concentrate harder than they seemed to those two games against Chicago. Or they could find themselves in a hole like Chicago did. Not saying it will happen. Saying it could.

By doc

May 18, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this

aj i agree with your logic and that we need more than what we got from mr. ren but i would really make sure he can play. dont think speedy makes as much as we think he does more in the tune of 5.5 mil a year(still not cheap). i hope he has a really good therapist along with chills to help avoid more of the same.

i think you will shoot mihms if he has another year like this past year in a hawks uni. heh heh. i’ll be around to remind you. i’m going to give speedy a break until about december.

By Dan

May 18, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

doc

Don’t give Speedy any breaks. He does not deserve them. The only thing you should give him is a free, one-way ticket out of town. What a waste that guy is….he is my least favorite player in NBA history, not counting anyone who played for the Fab Five.

ray

I hear you, and I agree. It will not be easy for the Pistons. The Cavs will push them, but I think the Pistons will win in the end.

Never thought I would say this, but…..Go Suns! If they beat the Spurs, they should send stern the gameball with big “F You” written on it.

By Clyde

May 19, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

Watching Deron Williams and Tony Parker go at it in a 7 game series will hurt. What if….

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By A Thinking Fan

May 19, 2007 7:19 AM | Link to this

You WIN with defense and the SUNS need to add a few defensive minded players for the POST season. Imagine MJ on the SUNS with his defensive intensity - SUNS WIN!

By chad

May 19, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

The Hawks should have drafted Brandon Roy last year. He would have been a good fit for the Hawks. Any other team in the league would fire the GM for passing on so many good players year after year.

By will

May 19, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

Should the Hawks try to sign Sebastian Telfair if the Boston Celtics release him?

By JJ

May 19, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this

sebastian telfair sucks

By Anakin Joe

May 19, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

will, Hawks have 3 PGsand hopefully will draft the “PG of the future” in June. So I would personally stay away from Telfair.

Doc, Speedy’s contract decreases year-over-year, but I’m pretty sure he stole $6.5M ths past season from the Hawks. Here’s what ticked me off about Speedy… he breaks his hand before the season starts yet some how misses games early bcuase of his knee. Then they say he needs rest. Thisall happens in the first 20 games of the season. How do you need rest after doing limited basketball drills in the first quarter of the season? Did he not work out in the off-season? Tne of the few good things Woody did last year was to bury Wright on the bench in the last 10-12 games. If he is anything more than the 11th man on the roster, I will be very upset.

Sekou, what’s the health of our injured Hawks? Did JJ ever heal from the deep thigh bruise? What’s going on with Chill and Speedy? And do any of our players work-out with reputed training gurus like Grover or are they playing pick-up games with their former high school teammates?

By smartguy

May 19, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

The Hawks number one priority for changing from a loser into a winner is finding new leadership. “Finding” is the key word here, as I know that quality of candidates is less than great. Nonetheless, I do think that a bum off the streets could win as many games with this team as Woody has over the last THREE years.

BELKIN AND DONOVAN 2008!

By MJ3

May 19, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

Smartguy,

Seriously, invest in a second track for that airhole you call a mind.

By MJ3

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

Oh, and how do your Warriors look now, dumbguy?

Thank god you don’t run our time. I’d take Knight and Woody over your head-up-your-hole approach any day.

By smartguy

May 19, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Sweet, 27 to 30 wins a year is great success.

Wow, I went way out there with the Warriors. Two or three plugs when everyone else is picking new teams to root for, since our favorite team is sitting at home, again, with a longer streak than anyone else in the league. You really nailed me there.

“Thank god you don’t run our time.” Who does run your time? No one runs mine but me. “A second track” for that airhole I call a mind? What sense does that make anyway? Stop spewing various insults that run through your mind, and try to formulate something with some substance, or at least something that makes a little sense.

At least we can agree on one thing: Thank god I don’t run your time, because then there would be two of us serving no purpose.

BELKIN AND DONOVAN 2008! At least they’ll do something with our top five pick in 2008.

By Mike

May 19, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Guys just checked-in for a little therapy while I’m going through my therapy. Like always you guys deliver.

The Stromile Swift deal would be a great move for the Hawks. I think BK was the guy that drafted him; maybe there is a chance of acquiring him.

Not sure about Telfare. I think he was more hype than substance. I think the young PG’s in the draft would be a better choice.

Not taking anything from LBJames because he’s a super star. But if Cleveland be Detroit the NBA image will take another hit. LBJames is a freak of nature the guy can do so much, but the rest of those guys are average at best except for maybe LHughes. So much of Cleveland games depend on referee calls. Everyone got upset about what happen to the Jazz, same goes for Cleveland. The referees should not determine who plays for the Championship the players should.

The Cav’s have no defensive present in the post, yet they are allowed to flop and maul guys and get rewarded for it all because they play with LB. That’s the only knock I have with the Cav’s. They will be allowed to push Detroit to seven games, the same thing happen last year only difference they met in the second round. But if they beat Detriot, the NBA will have black eye just like boxing.

I might be way off base, Sekou any thoughts.

By GLid

May 19, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

Anyone comparing TMac’s supporting cast to Dirk’s is retarded.

Anyone comparing TMac’s postseason stats to Dirk’s, at least this year, is retarded.

Tracy picks up his game during the playoffs, if you don’t believe me check his regular season stats and his playoff stats. The problem with him is that he’s never had that good of a team around him. I won’t go into the specifics about Orlando, but there’s a reason they were always such a low seed, and that reason wasn’t Tracy.

Yao got shut down by a soft (and often dirty) European and a player giving up more than half a foot to him. It’s Yao’s fourth or fifth season in the league and he still struggles against physical defense. It’s his fault he’s not getting good position in the paint, not Tracy’s.

Look at the Rockets roster besides Tracy and name player one that would be in the top 6 on the Spurs or the Suns.

Now onto Dirk. He got a lot of credit for his late fourth quarter heroics in game 5, but he would not have even had that opportunity were it not for Devin Harris and his 11 or so straight points earlier in the quarter (maybe it was late third). He’s also playing with Josh Howard, a genuine low post scorer and a player who would be the number one scoring option on over half the teams in the league.

Now I don’t think it was a legitimate 1 vs. 8 matchup considering the Warriors were unhealthy most of the year and the midseason trade changed the makeup of their team considerably, but a great player would have done what was necessary to win a series against an inferior team.

I don’t care how many looks the Warriors threw at Dirk, he should’ve continued demanding the ball and putting it in the basket. By the end of the series he looked like a little kid who got picked last in a pickup game - he just stayed out of the way and played to not make mistakes. Inexcusable.

Comparisons between Dirk and TMac in this postseason are simply not warranted.

By GLid

May 19, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

By the way, has anyone else noticed the similarities between the Cavs and the Hawks? Especially after that near meltdown in the third quarter when LeBron was sitting in game 6, the Cavs without LeBron are just a slightly if at all more talented team then the Hawks.

Check it out next time you see them play. Other than LeBron there’s not a single player that makes me say “man, I wish we had him on the Hawks”.

By MJ3

May 19, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

“Time” was supposed to be “team.” So that was supposed to read “Thank god you don’t run our team.”

I made a typo, but I fixed it. Sadly, there’s no way I can fix the fact that you’re an arrogant idiot/douchebag who thinks he speaks for everyone here, and who never opens his mouth except to insult the Hawks.

But as I said on Hack’s blog - keep it up. I’ll keep the faith and keep on cheering for the Hawks either way, but if you keep talking s**, maybe they’ll move the Hawks down here to Jacksonville!

By Orlando Rivera

May 19, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah bringing along Telfair will be just great. This way we’ll have someone other than Micheal Vick filling up the police blotter. Without Lebron the Cavs are not a better team than Atlanta. Mike Brown knows the only reason he’s still employed is because of LeBron. As much as i’d like to see the Cavs finally make the Finals I don’t think they will go 5 games with Detroit. They just don’t have the talent necessary to assist Lebron. He has shown that he needs a true number two who is a dominant scorer that he can defer to in crunch time.

By hooligan

May 20, 2007 2:24 AM | Link to this

I actually think that the insult was pretty clear, smartguy. Airhole = airhead. Doesn’t seem too hard. Then again, both you and MJ3 seem like you’re less than gifted in the brains department.

By ray

May 20, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

Smartguy, be the smart guy and ignore that foolishness. An opinion is a dangerous thing. An insult is not, unless it’s face to face. Which is why insults are so free here…no real consequences.

GLid,

I don’t see the Hawks as being anything like the Cavs. Ilguaskas is a better inside presence than Pachulia. We don’t have a 3-point shooting big man who can also rebound. They do: Donyell Marshall. We don’t have ANY sizeable pgs (well, AJ is about 6’3”). They have Larry Hughes (who can run the pg or sg positions) and the talented young Shannon Brown. We have Speedy. And last, but most certainly not least: They have a true superstar. The best we can do is JJ. Not knocking JJ, but he cannot yet take over a game like LBJ. He’s dang good, but not on that level yet. Lebron is a whole ‘nother bag of tricks.

Oh, and did I mention they play better defense? And their coach at least knows that not all plays are for Lebron, nor is it wise to play him all 48mpg. Woody wouldn’t know that…

So, Vince Carter is a free agent soon, is he? You know what the knock against him would be? Not clutch in the big games…Dude shot 35% against the Cavs all series. Is Cleveland’s defense that good, or did Carter simply not elevate to that level? Either way, if anybody can con him away from NJ, he’s a good one to have.

Jason Kidd averaged a freakin’ triple double throughout the playoffs. Apparently, Oscar Robertson (the original master of triple doubles) was the first and only other guy to do it. Never taking anything away from Steve Nash, but does any other pg do more for his team? You can’t say it’s about personal stats, because the assists and rebounds will refute that idea altogether. I mean, come on! A pg with rebounding averages rivaling that of the top NBA big men? Wow. Like I said, not to take away from Steve, but JKidd is the man. Of course, Steve definitely has more weapons to work with, especially within that Phoenix system. What would happen if both pgs swapped teams for a season? Myself, I don’t know…but it would be interesting.

I liked Phoenix, but wasn’t sure they had what it took to halt the implacable advance of San Antonio. Now we see if Utah does. I think I see another 6 or 7 game series. A PHYSICAL one at that. Utah better pay attention: the Spurs sixth man is one excitable, passionate, dangerous offensive threat.

By Kapps

May 20, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Somebody, Somewhere, Bring this team some luck Tuesday night. First or second pick and 10 or 11. Please, somebody make it happen. This franchise has been tortured for far too long. Help us, please!

By Kappy

May 20, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

Somebody, Somewhere, Bring this team some luck Tuesday night. First or second pick and 10 or 11. Please, somebody make it happen. This franchise has been tortured for far too long. Help us, please!

By doc

May 20, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

ray, i think the suns were a pretty good team when jason kidd was there before he went to the nets. he is a heck of a good player who offers different stuff than nash. after he left phoenix he took the nets to challenge after he left phoenix for the crystal, right? it has been slightly downhill for him both professionally and domestically since then. dont know if he could bring to the suns what nash does now or he did then.

nash is about where kidd was five years ago at the top of his game. after all he led the resurgence of the suns immediately on his return to fill the void left when kidd was gone. kidd as good as he is probably isnt at the top of his game though he was about as good as anyone has done it as a very big point guard.

there will be more to come in that mold, sad to say that brandon roy might ultimately step into that kind of a guard. still think he was the choice for this franchise instead of sheldon. he does one or two, jj does 1,2 or 3; chills, josh and marvin have flexibilty. the options would have been huge. instead as a payroll consideration we go sheldon instead of a f.a. to play the needed role he met but at a higher cost.

didnt follow that closely but how did the spurs and the jazz fare this past year?

shame we cant see a game seven tonight between the suns and the spurs in phoenix. that is the effect sterns’ ruling had on the series. maybe it wouldn’t have changed the outcome but i for one of many feel that if the spurs go all the way it was a bit of a gift from the gods and the nba. if they had called bowen on his second infraction with the knee to the groin, the third event with horry wouldnt have ever happened. the reason they didnt call it on bowen is because they probably thought it would be meddling in a series which is eventually what they had to do to the non-agressor that took the high road and really followed the rules, not how the rules are supposed to work.

way back at the trade deadline i said the suns had needed to bring in some more beef and it would cost them. i hope they find someone next year to be the enforcer that they need to keep the likes of horry and bowen honest. barkley says that the way he would have dealt with the problem in his day would have been to set a hard pick on parker, by getting him going fast up the court and have a big guy step out to make the moving pick if necessary from the blind side. amare or maybe even pat burke in a cameo role should have stepped up to volunteer for that as soon as they went after nash.

By Matt

May 20, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this

I still don’t buy into the thinking that Brandon Roy will ever be a star in this league. He put up good-but-not-great numbers on a team with the second-worst offense in the league (yeah, the Hawks were the worst), and NO offensive threats whatsoever in the backcourt besides Roy. As a result, Roy got a disproportionate number of touches.

On virtually any other team, he would have scored 10-12 ppg. On the Hawks, who are already stocked at the 2 and 3 slots (and no, Roy is not and will never be a PG), I doubt he would have scored even that. He’s on the list of guys whose stats are inflated because he plays on a team with very mediocre talent (see Greg Anthony, 1996). He leans way too much on his mid-range jumper (read: He’s not that fast, and his perimeter shot is mediocre) to be a first or second option on a playoff-bound team.

Besides, you all know that you would have slammed Knight to all hell if we’d used that pick on another swingman. We should have traded that pick away, although last year’s draft was so weak that I doubt we could have gotten much for it.

As it stands, I honestly don’t think we would have won any more games with Roy than we did with Shelden.

By doc

May 20, 2007 8:50 PM | Link to this

matt, time will tell but the winner of the nba roy award is quite an illustrious group you can go back to 1958 and look for yourself but there have been only two in that time that didnt go on to have unbelievable careers, mike miller and okafur. as far as the lean it doesnt mater if the release is quick enough and it goes in.

probably wouldnt have slammed bk especially if the had made a trade to go along with it to get someone of better quality than sheldon or gotten another player and a shot at a milsaps while giving up someone on the roster.

as far as the impact brandon could have made your memory resembles mine at my delicate age. if i remember correctly the hawks did have a huge problem with having healthy guards on the court last year and ESPECIALLY one that could score. they had to give up a second round drfat choice this year in a robust draft for a has been and they additionally had a huge problem when someone threw a bigger style of point guard at us as they scored at will. glad you got a break from changing the diapers dude, you contentious soul.

By klaitu

May 21, 2007 4:19 AM | Link to this

Point-guard search could be all Greek for struggling HawksThe Hawks, who passed on Chris Paul and Deron Williams in the 2005 draft to take Marvin Williams, and who then gave ex-Sixer Speedy Claxton $25 million in free agency last summer, may be looking at another potential solution to their perennial point-guard problem. Word is they’re looking hard at Greek guard Theodoros Papaloukas, the 30-year-old star point at CSKA Moscow who is expected to try the NBA next season.