Hawks

By Ken Strickland

June 28, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but the AStaudamire trade doesn’t make much sense, especially in the long run. Suppose we make the trade, which would likely include Zaza, and Amare’s knee goes out. Who would be the backup to man the 5 for us if this happens? Amare’s contract would make it all but impossible for us to acquire another 5. Just look at what we had to pay for LWright. And we won’t have another 1st rd pick until the 2009 draft.

COMMON SENSE SAYS WE SHOULDN’T MAKE THE TRADE. If we keep the pick and draft a big, we will have two quality 5’s on our roster. Don’t let your emotions dictate placing your wants ahead of your needs. REMEMBER, THIS IS NOT A FANTASY DRAFT, IT’S THE REAL DEAL.

By HB Ando

June 28, 2007 5:07 PM | Link to this

My last comment, pre-draft, on who to select: I’ve been a proponent of Noah since the get go. I still believe he’s the center we need if we CANNOT make a trade for a veteran big. I DO NOT believe he’s in the mix for this front office, at 3, so if I have to choose between Horford and Yi, from a realistic standpoint, I’m going Yi. I also DO NOT believe Noah will fall to us at 11. I do think Hawes might, and I think he’d be a good selection, providing solid potential and immediate low post scoring skills (though it’s clear that he’s got room to improve).

I think we should trade Childress for either Jack or Calderon. If we do, we don’t need a PG at 11. If we don’t, I think, from all I’ve heard and seen, that Law is going to be a very good player, and could contribute right away, to an aging, less than healthy PG situation in Atlanta.

If we picked up Yi at 3, and a PG with Childress, then we could take a shot at Hawes, or, even (gasp) reload the 2-3 position, with a guy like Nick Young. Or we could trade down from 11 and pick up a quality, big, prospect, like Shawn Williams (Yeah, he smokes weed. Like half the players in the NBA don’t…) or Jason Smith.

I think there’s a lot more we could do, to help this team, than simply pick players at 3 and 11. But I think that’s the most likely scenario, so it will be what it will be.

By HB Ando

June 28, 2007 4:57 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I’ve been talking with a buddy about swapping with Boston and picking up Rondo. I’d do that in a heart beat, and then pick Noah. There’s your center, you’re point guard, and you still have the 11th pick and an extra, quality forward or two to try and deal for a center.

Myc and Joe, the difference, in which story to believe, will be defined by whether Billy selects Horford at 3. The other story will still be an unsubstantiated rumor. And we’ll have picked a forward for the fourth year in a row. Guess time will tell. Either of you cats going to be down at Phillips? Meeting Doc and Jhan there, and would love to meet you guys if you’re up for it (admit it Joe, you’d love to put a face with the villianous Ando persona, LOL).

Doc has Big Ray’s number and we’re going to call him about 20 times from Phillips so he can drink it in from his living room, way down south (while drinking other things in, I’m sure).

Can’t figure out if I’m going to a funeral, or a Phoenix-like re-birth. Don’t know if I’ll be heading home, swearing off this organization for the last time (or until Billy and ownership is a distant memory), or be thinking seriously about getting season tickets (hint: only Amare gets that done).

Only a couple more hours. One thing is for certain, no matter what happens, people on this blog are going to disagree with each other, and the decisions that are made.

Doc says, “Bring good vibrations, Ando”. Okie Dokie……….

By American_Dreamer

June 28, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

This is my first blog post and I wanted to chime in as the final hours leading up to the draft ticks away. The Hawks have a great opportunity to assemble a real competitive team provided the right decisions are being made. My choice for the team draft picks are Noah at #3 and Law with the pick at #11. This would make the Hawk, IMO, a younger version of the Detroit Pistons team that won the NBA Championship under Larry Brown. The only exception to that is Noah isn’t an outside scorer in the mold of Rasheed Wallace, but he will bring the same defensive intensity and low post scoring that the Hawks need. Much like Billups, Law can grow into the PG role and become a good floor general.

Now with Yi thrown into the mix as a possible selection with the #3 pick. At first I was skeptical of Yi beause I was unsure as to what he would bring to this team on defense. As I did research on him through Draft Express and other sites. Yi has become very intriguing and I feel that he would be a good choice with the third pick also. With Yi, the Hawks can be a more uptempo team on offense and pull opposing centers from under the basket which will allow Joe Johnson, Josh Smith and Marvin Williams more effective as scorers going to the basket.

This will be my first draft party, so I am hoping for some excitement and fun down at Phillips.

BTW Sekou, I’ve enjoyed reading your blog and the subsequent comments left by the fans.

GO HAWKS!!!

By MikeM

June 28, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Congrats Sekou! I’ve been hearing so much banter around these message boards since the lottery, and it seems everyone has went back and forth on who to pick.

You (and almost everyone else) decided right after the lottery that Michael Conley Jr. was the best choice. Two weeks later everyone is picking Al Horford. Now there is a big push in the Yi supporters.

It disgusts me that everyone goes back and forth just like the ATL Spirit. The only exception is that those who picked Noah after the lottery have stuck with him. So I’ll give those Gator fans props even though I normally can’t stand them.

So congrats on sticking with your guns with Conley as the best choice Sekou! Too bad no one else in ATL does.

By glenn

June 28, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

BTW , the press is still running with the Amare Stoudemire trade being vetoed by someone within the Hawks ownership group . You know where there is smoke there usually is fire , right ?

By glenn

June 28, 2007 3:33 PM | Link to this

I just read where we were going to draft that Yi Jianlian with the third pick & trade him to the Celtics for the fifth pick & future considerations . We would still draft Horford . Shrewd stuff no ?

By g_from_dooluth

June 28, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

For all those who bash the ATL for not having passionate fans are obviously not reading these blogs. CLEARLY we have a ton of fans dying for a quality product to root for. With prices for a family of four costing $100+, why on earth would anyone spend that kind of money vs. bowling, movies, or other family activities when its about a 65% likelyhood that the Hawks are gonna LOSE!! And that stat is based off they’re HIGHEST win total of the past THREE seasons!

All I know is that whoever they draft (please be Conley), they better get it right! They still owe us one for trading away ‘Nique!!!!!

By GT80

June 28, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks take Horford @ #3 they will have used the #2, #3, #5 & #6 picks in the last 4 years for 1 starter. Or does Marvin start over JSmooth just so we can say we have used those picks for 2 starters?

I’m praying for the miracle that would be Amare for both #3 & #11. With Stoudemire here you might convince Billups to come (but doubt it).

Would anyone trade Marvin or Sheldon (please) and #11 to move up to 4,5 or 6 to get Conely?

By Samuel

June 28, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

What’s wrong with making money in Business.

By Davey

June 28, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Amare trade ain’t happening tonight quote Rich Bucher on espn. It’s not dead but doesn’t look good and impossible to happen tonight.

By bob61

June 28, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

Sekou, WHY do Woodson & Knight want Horford and not want Yi or Conley? Based on all of the information I can find, I can not understand why they would go with Horford.

I can see that both Yi & Conley fill a need and bring something special that cannot be taught: Yi brings ‘eye popping’ size, athleticism, & speed. Conley brings athleticism, quickness, and court awareness. Yi & Conley are two of the best athletes in the draft. Horford may be solid, but I don’t see that he brings any very special abilities. Where is the WOW?

Conley has at least one big flaw - he can’t shoot 3’s. Horford has shown an inability to guard big players down low (e.g., Oden) and apparently did not play much away from the basket in college. Yi has room to improve, but has already demonstrated the ability to play good offense & defense against NBA players. He is an excellent shooter, rebounder, & shot blocker that could help the Hawks immediately.

Why do all of the sports writers say that Horford is the ‘most NBA ready’? I don’t see it! What is the evidence of that? Are the sports writers just feeding us a bunch of unfounded BS opinions?

I think that last year the sports wirters said that Shelden Williams was the ‘most NBA ready’ big man. I could see evidence of that in his play against other college big men. He performed much better than Horford. I think Shelden was the best big defensive player in college. Still, he did not play well in his first NBA season. So what happened to ‘most NBA ready’???

Sekou, what am I missing? Why do Woodson & Knight want Horford? If you think it is because Yi is an ‘unknown risk’, then that would be Knight’s fault. He should have taken the effort to know!!! If you think it is because Horford is the ‘most NBA ready’, then please tell me what is the evidence of that?

By tyger

June 28, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

Not sold on Stoudemire alone anyway, we would still need help in the paint and relying upon Speedy is disastrous.

Losing our expiring contracts hurts our future flexibility. Ty Lue, Lo Wright, and AJ combine for $9-$10M to extend the core.

Nothing less than Amare and Barbosa for both picks is acceptable. In order to give up the opportunity of a lifetime, they have to made whole.

We have attractive pieces w/o selling the farm, and those teams need the expiring contracts as much or moreso than the players.

Amare is a nice piece but without Barbosa we need to keep the 11th for Law.

By GT80

June 28, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

If the ownership is blocking trades or dictating to BK who to draft based on business interest, well…TOTAL DISASTER is what we have.

Please tell me that BK can’t screw this draft up like he’s done the last 4 years.

By mykhalc

June 28, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Ando why do you believe the Belkin story is false but the Horford story is true?

JOE, took the words outta my mouth!! soooo on-point. i think ODDJOB said it best last nite. to para-phrase, we gotta lotta smoke blown our way this year leadin’ up to the draft!! and most of us have no better idea now on what the team will do then we did on lottery nite!!! it’s been a lot more fun this way but the stress is killin’ me!!!!LOL

By Harry Hawk

June 28, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Well, I should say that I was floored by the level of in-house fighting and bickering implied by what was being said last night. I guess I figured that the Hawks ownership would magically agree to do such a deal. Deep down, I knew this trade wasn’t going to happen because it was a rumor, there was too much talk, and the Hawks were involved.

Anyway, get ready for Horford and Law! Chad Ford says they’ve decided on Horford! I guess we’ll see!

By S.DOT

June 28, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

What about JJ/SC,KOBE BRYANT/SS,MW/JC,JS/SW,ZP/SJ for the 3 and the 11 picks???

By james jones

June 28, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

horford is aight!!! he shouldn’t even be the top 3 power fwd cause he is just moderate in every aspect. he’s a safe pick butplease if we pick him we can safely say it’s a very stupid pick. really stop and think where’s he gonna play. if he’s schooled during practice by sheldon and solo then he won’t start over them. and he’s therefore another project or in my kind words “a waste”. we have to get something no one else in the league would have. like yi. and people just cause he’s not the best player on the team- (bangani in toronto) doesn’t mean he wasn’t a big part of their success cause i watched some of their games and he played a major role with his outside play!!! let’s have another unguardable player in yi. if u go close he beats u off the dribble, u step back he pops off on ya and in the open court (fast break) he’s as good amare or smoove. come on people let’s hope we get yi not horford. the only way we don’t take yi is if we get amare!!!

By Anakin Joe

June 28, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

Doc & Ando, if you want to feel better about tonight’s selection, go to www.atlantahawks.com and check out the photo in the “Draft Central” section. CA-CHING!

By Harry Hawk

June 28, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

Ando, it was insinuated that Belkin was vetoing the trade. I also drew the inference (not explicitly stated, as in Belkin’s case) that Mike Gearon, Jr. might be vetoing the trade in favor of Yi because of business interests Gearon has in China. When my humble self reads something like that on a major website like ESPN.com, it makes me wonder about the legitimacy of Yi as a basketball player vis-a-vis “cash cow” for the Hawks. If Yi stinks as a player, those “business interests” for Gearon (if true) would still be realized if they are contingent upon picking Yi. Maybe ESPN.com was dead wrong about Gearon. Maybe Chad Ford was just lazy and didn’t wade through the BS. Maybe I assumed he would be responsible in his reporting…nooooooo, that can’t be! Either way, I can understand if Atlanta Spirit as a group sees dollar signs because of Yi. I was just floored by the idea of in-house fighting and bickering blocking a potential trade.

Just to finish the trade business off, the idea of Gearon vetoing this deal and insisting on Yi would be worse to me than the idea of Belkin rearing his head. I say that because Atlanta Spirit has carefully cultivated the idea of “Belkin in a black hat” and a different owner vetoing a deal for personal reasons would make this ownership seem even more ludicrous than it is already. I mean, when I read the news last night, I had visions of Billy Knight quitting after being told who to pick. Of course, he’d never do that. We’re not that lucky. He wants to keep his job because no one else would hire him…for a few years, at least.

In closing, I will admit that the last 24-36 hours have proved that there is an awful lot of interest in the Hawks getting better and being relevant. This blog has been proof of that. People are just holding back because of the ridiculous state the franchise has been in. I just hope that this organization will someday tap into that reservoir of people who’d like to believe in cheering for this team.

By Dale

June 28, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Goodness people, when the hell did Al Horford become so great. Some folks around here are really overstating the talent level of some of these players.

By Anakin Joe

June 28, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Ando why do you believe the Belkin story is false but the Horford story is true? Since you seem interested in the “value of the pick”, Horford is virtually a unanimous pick as the third best player in the draft. Why not prop him up to maybe get something in return for trading down? Isn’t that one way to create value for your pick, by letting the world know that they have to offer something special if they want it? In the end, of course, you do what’s right, but that time is till several hours away.

By GT80

June 28, 2007 1:41 PM | Link to this

7 hours to go and we could be looking at something great for the Hawks or a TOTAL DISASTER!

If the Amare trade can happen that will be a great move. If not, as Sekou said, they should take Conely. He is a special player that fills the need we have. Horford might be nice but he duplicates what we have. Take Yi before taking Horford for God’s sake.

And please, please, please do not take Critt @ 11. I’m the biggest GT supporter out there and I loved the kid last year, but he is miles away from being an accomplished PG. He wasn’t the best PG in an inferior ACC last year, what makes you think he’ll be a star in the NBA, especially not right away.

On Pins and Needles until tonight.

By Ken Strickland

June 28, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

If the 3way trade goes through, with us getting Amare, Zaza had better not be included in the trade. We’ve already seen Zaza wear down under the physical play in the East. What makes any of you think Amare(who’d simularily be without adequate backup), would fair any better, or as well.

I’m sure, for most of us, it would be exciting to see a front line of JSmith, AStaudamire and MWilliams. But how exciting would it be going into the 4th quarter with a tired, weak, foul plagued Amare with a weak rebounding Marvin next to him? Without an adequate replacement, that’s what we’ll have to look forward too. REMEMBER, ALL THAT GLITTERS AIN’T GOLD.

By Ricardo

June 28, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if it’s true about Belkin getting involved or not and I don’t really care. The think that bums me out is that just when it appears that the team is on the right path (multiple high picks, major players in the rumor mill - general - and genuine - interest in the team) this goes and raises it’s ugly head again. Just as we fans have a real reason to be positive (for the first time in EIGHT years) we get slapped back to the reality of who owns this team and how dysfunctional it is. I’m not a BK fan, but how can you give him crap when he’s got NO support above him? He is clearly trying to pull the trigger on some things and the people that should help him the most - his owners - are screwing it all up? Sickening.

By hazer

June 28, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

not my personal pix, just saying that’s probably what bk will do given his track record and preferences. hadn’t really thought about those 2 picks in that order before. have to say that wouldn’t be too damn bad…

By hazer

June 28, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

nba draft dot net has this to say about crittendon:

“NBA Comparison: Steve Francis

Strengths: Tremendous combination of size, athleticism and playmaking ability … Quick first step … Excellent vision and passing skills … His size allows him to see over defenders and make passes that the average 6-2 PG could not … Shows great heart, very competitive. Wont back down from a challenge … Very quick, an elite level athlete … Loves to dunk on players … Excellent body strength … Rhythm shooter, with good slashing and scoring ability … His huge hands give him excellent control of the ball … Very unselfish player … Excellent foot speed, overall quickness and effort makes him a tough defensive player … Works hard to improve his game, very coachable … Has a great attitude, confident but not cocky …

Weaknesses: Needs to improve upon his outside shot, which is solid but can improve … Can be too unselfish at times trying to get everyone involved when he is the top scoring option … Can be too aggressive defensively and get caught reaching, picking up unnecessary fouls … Needs to prove himself on the college level. Become a great decision maker and learn to lead a team on the next level …His ability to play the point guard position is very good, but he can continue to improve upon dictating tempo and learning the nuances of the position … Aran Smith - 4/1/2006”

hometown kid, tall pg, good defensively, probably available at 11. which tells me this will be bk’s pick if it’s not traded away. which also tells me that bk picks either horford, yi, or noah at 3.

By HB Ando

June 28, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

So none of you folks are cynical enough to consider that the possible source of this “Belkin veto” story would be someone in the Spirit hierarchy? You’ve already heard that the Stoudemire-to-Atlanta deal wasn’t discussed, between Phoenix and Atlanta, which means it was just a rumor. So now the fans get excited about such a deal, when Billy and the Spirit know it can’t be done. Now they know that whatever happens, people will blame them for “not getting Stoudemire”. Obvious move: blame Belkin for a “hypothetical veto”, and let him take the heat with the local fans.

Some of you folks need to look of the definition of the word “rube”…….

To me, of less concern about that story is that Billy wants to take Horford, yet another power forward. Here is a man who simply has not learned his lessen. If management is hamstrung by the ongoing legal wrangling, in terms of making a trade for a center, then Billy MUST seek a center through the draft. You only take Horford if you have a plan to acquire a center with one or two of your other, million forwards. I’ll say it again, scouting reports on Horford highlight that he struggled mightily against not only Oden (understandable) but against Randolph Morris as well. The report I read said he’s simply not big enough to defend against legitimate centers, and doesn’t project to be able to at the next level. Does that mean he’s not going to be really good? No, it just means that he’s a power forward. Last time I checked, Marvin and Josh were the starting forwards on this team. And then there’s Shelden.

So where does Horford fit on this roster? I listened to Woody say, at last year’s draft party, that he envisioned playing Marvin, Josh and Shelden together. I laughed then, and then shook my head all season as Shelden couldn’t get into the rotation (like it wasn’t obvious, BEFORE we drafted him, that would be the case-and, as I predicted the whole summer, between drafting him and the start of the season).

So, you say, Ando, where does Yi fit in, since he’s a forward too. Yi brings a combination of size, athleticism and face-up game that doesn’t exist on the Hawks’ roster right now. Horford is just a better power forward than Shelden. Yi could be Dirk, with a 38-inch vertical. Doc is right, if this kid was American, and coming out of the McDonald’s game, he’d be pushing Durant for #2, and be the consensus #3 pick, simply on his physical profile and a limited body of work against high school competition. Those of you who keep saying that he’s not a known entity, are simply ignoring comments from folks like Joe Johnson himself, who has played against him and stated that Yi is the real deal.

What’s best for the Hawks is to find a legit, hopefully veteran center. If the court thing limits that possibility, then drafting one makes sense. I still like Noah, but I’d bump down a few spots and pick up some value to take him. If you stay at 3, choose Yi. This draft is almost wholly about projecting future development. He brings unique potential, unlike any player not named Durant or Oden.

And, to be fair, if you’re the Spirit, you take Yi as well. You may not be the owners much longer, you’ve lost money, and you may lose the teams. We fans may not like it, but from a business perspective, taking Yi is a no-brainer. And why should they trust Billy’s instinct to take Horford? He’s passed on the last two ROY’s, and another PG who just took his team to the Western Conference finals, in his second season.

I just can’t figure out why that A$$ Clown, Billy Knight, still has a job! He’s the laughing stock of the national NBA media, a too-obvious target for every writers cheap shots. He has absolutely no credibility left. I warned Bruce Levenson, two years ago, that they had entrusted their future to the wrong guy. Should have listened then, Bruce.

Looking forward to seeing Doc and Jhan at the draft tonight. Hopefully, will meet a few others from the blog as well. We can drown our sorrows, as another Billy Knightmare unfolds before our very eyes…………

By Hawk in NYC

June 28, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

I agree that Amare is very good and that there is no guarantee that Horford can even come close to him. However, if we get Amare for our picks this year and Zaza and AJ, we will have a lineup of Speedy/Lue, JJ/Salim, MW/JChill, JSmith/Swillams, Amare/Solo. A good, but not great lineup plus we will be over/near the cap. We would not be able to sign any vets or resign JSmith next year. On top of that, no picks until 2009. We would get to the playoffs for sure, but never get very far.

By Spaniard

June 28, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

Hi!

Interesting night. A lot of things can happen. I wish the best for the Hawks… but I don’t know what is the best, and the more I read, the more I get confused about which will be the best choices. I am very amazed with all the comments related with Jose Antonio Calderon. I didn’t know that he was so appreciated. It will be fantastic to see him in a Hawks uniform because in that way next year an spanish TV will schedule some Atlanta games, but I suppose that it won’t happen.

Good luck for this night!

Pep

By Mike T

June 28, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Just because Horford and Amare are the same size does not mean they are even comparable. Have you seen him play? Amare was 1st team all-NBA at 24!!! He’s also signed for the next four years. If you can get him for two picks and garbage without going over the cap, you absolutely must do it. Horford is a nice pick if they can’t get Amare, but come on….

By Anakin Joe

June 28, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

Hawks should trade the legacies of Tree Rollins, Tom McMillan and Dan Roundfield to GS for Patrick O’Bryant.

Sorry, but I just had to throw in my version of a ridiculous trade idea.

By Matt

June 28, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

“Conley overrated, Law underrated”

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/luke_winn/06/27/underrated.overrated/1.html

Interesting read, if nothing else. And remember that despite some people’s insistences to the contrary, it is never a guarantee that someone can develop an NBA-quality jump shot, much less a reliable NBA 3-point shot.

I would certainly not be disappointed to land either of these guys - and I have a feeling one will be a Hawk before the end of the day.

By mac

June 28, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

YI #3 Trade for Calderon 5APG and 8.7PPG in 21 MPG in his second year! AMAZING

By mac

June 28, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this

Yi #3 Trade for Calderon 5 APG and 8.7 PPG in 21 MPG,in his 2nd year AMAZING.

By Hawk in NY

June 28, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Also, I agree with Ken. Why are we so excited about Amare at center when he is the same size as Horford who nobody wants at center? We can draft Horford and a PG at eleven.

With Amare, we would not have cap space to sign any vets and would likely have difficulty signing JSmith next year.

By Hawk in NY

June 28, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

Atlanta should make a trade with Portland who is going to pick Oden. Send our #3 to them and ask for Jack and Aldridge. We get our PG and a F/C. They get to pick Conley so he and Oden continue to play together. Portland has too many bigs and probably cannot unload Randolph with his issues and contract. We fill two positions of need and take best available at 11.

By St. Bernard

June 28, 2007 11:25 AM | Link to this

It has to be a real rumor for JJ to have called Amare. Who knows what’s going on, and if I understand right, no one will know until the first round is over. Maybe we should be watching for strange picks in the lottery to judge what might be happening.

I also hope security is high at Phillips. I’m willing to wager there won’t be a draft party again if we mess another one up like last year.

By Dale

June 28, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

I proclaimed two years ago that BK dammed this franchise for not drafting Chris Paul……I was right.

We are so screwed. There isn’t a good option for us at 3 or 11. If we can’t trade the picks all hope will be lost.

Mike Conley ain’t the answer, I’m telling you this kid is the next Jacque Vaughn. Nobody in this draft (outside the top 2) is going to get the Hawks to the next level.

WE NEED TO BOYCOTT THE HAWKS, PLEASE, IF THE ARENA IS EMPTY THE OWNERSHIP WILL LEAVE!!!!

By 2K_D@VIS

June 28, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Why get Al Horford?Him and Sheldon Williams are basically the same size, Horford is like 2 inches taller whatz the difference, we need a point guard…and the thing is who knows how good any of them can be?thatz what the draft is all about taking a good guess and getting lucky..Chris Paul isnt really that tall or big but he got the job done and if we think about it no other guard was that good from last years draft but brandon roye, havent heard much from foye or anyone else..If it were me i would either get Stoudamire 4 the 3rd pick as long as i could keep eleven to get crittenton that would work great as insurance just in case those knees go out….and plus one of these old forwards we drafted has to go #5 #2 etc we cant have any of them coming off the bench cuz that is a waste…if im drafting that high and putting them on the bench they can play from the bench of someone elses team…if we dont get Yi who is 7’0 which you cant coach and can dribble all the other stuff can be taught..Yao wasn’t dominate when he came in the league and he’s about the same size as Yi has less range and less dribble ability…get conley at 3 that should work, hes not very tall but neither is steve nash or tony parker, being a great player is not about measurables it is about heart and intelligence mostly..we would be fools to pass on a pg, get another forward to complete are 5 fwrd lineup, and get Amare and give up 2 picks…hes good but he is not a point guard if he can play center and point guard then go for it , but if not don’t be suprised if we make this deal and are still in the same position 4-5 yrs from now sayin” I knew we shouldnt gave up those picks for that guy with the bad knees*reminds me of hartwell & abraham a little….when comes down to it atlanta sports has bad luck get what we need at pg don’t care if its to high to draft or not we have been goin to high with fwrds already why not give pg a shot…my lineup pg - conley/crittenton sg - joe johnson sf - josh smith pf - sheldon williams C - Yi JianLian

laugh but i think this would work

Thatz all i got

By Don!

June 28, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

Sekou — not to make this a journalistic squabble between you and ESPN’s folks, but I’m reading in multiple places that Belkin did indeed kill a proposed deal for Amare because it put the Hawks just over the cap in a future year.

I think many of us believe he did that to be spiteful, and not in the best interests of the Hawks or its fan base.

What can you dig up to clarify this situation?

Thanks,

Don!

By doc

June 28, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

dont get the hopes up, we lose salary cap room for anything after the 1st. it is to the hawks advantage to make a deal before that date to the tune of 6 mil by an earlier report.

By Mike T

June 28, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

I agree with all the folks who say the Amare deal is an absolute no brainer, but it would leave them awfully thin in the front court. The deal would include Pachulia, plus Lorenzen Wright or (if MN has its way) Shelden Williams. Amare is undersized for center and gets into foul trouble a lot (as does Smith). The frontcourt bench would be Shelden Williams or Wright and Solomon Jones. And there would be no cap room to improve it.

I still think they have to do it (a no-brainer!), but they will struggle against Miami, Portland, or anyone else with a scoring center.

By doc

June 28, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

jhan i will be happy with horford, yi or noah at 3. lets not make this into my mandate to get yi. i chose to not sit on the fence and stated my arguments for the guy, never have i said i couldnt live with another solution or see it relevant. i was even able to rationalize sheldon instead of the guy i wanted last year in mr. roy. that one still hurts.

as for your question about mr. conley i will be extremely happy if conley gets the rook of the year award …. playing in a hawks new uni. heh heh. that i could be wrong for in a ny minute. though scoffed at it might happen if yi is our draft pick. if someone goes point after that then they have a possible trade as most are set at that position after the griz. we will also have a shot at a second big if conley is gone by 11.

By Mike T

June 28, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

ESPN is reporting (on TV) that Phoenix is just denying any involvement (and avoiding talking to the Hawks directly) so as to keep Amare happy if it doesn’t happen, but that talks are still in the works. Also, they said that if they wait until after June 30, Belkin can’t veto as long as the deal is under the salary cap, because at that point Amare’s deal would have no more than four years remaining.

By hawksloyalty

June 28, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Yi is going to be an All Star(because of all the Chinese votes) and ROY next year for resurecting the Hawks back to the playoffs!(Wishful thinking I know, but after the last 8 seasons what else can we do?)

By Anakin Joe

June 28, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this

A-Town Vet, regretably, I doubt the deal will happen. I think Ainge ends his bluff around 3:00 this afternoon and they try to make the 3-way with Marion headed to Boston work. No doubt that Phoenix would prefer to move Marion more than Amare. So if Ainge cames back to the table, we get screwed and that’s what I think will ultimately happen.

Plus, despite Sekou’s report, I’m concerned that many franchises do believe that our dysfunctional ownership group (coupled with BK’s reputation for being slow to pull the trigger), will discourage teams from “wasting their time” trying to make an 11th hour deal with us. It does not appear that we have a governance process in place for an 11th hour deal. We’ve known for about 4-5 weeks about the #3 pick and supposedly we still haven’t gained agreement on a selection. Why would we expect the owners to make a decision in less than 10 hours?

DAMMIT, I got myself all upset again.

By salinsa

June 28, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Apparently this alleged trade only existed on the internet. PHX GM Steve Kerr claims to have never spoken to Billy Knight. Here’s the article from the Arizona newspaper:

Now that every possible trade scenario has been exhausted in quick-trigger rumor reporting, the truth comes out today.

Suns center Amaré Stoudemire still is not going anywhere. It still is a long shot for Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett to wind up in Phoenix.

And if the Suns’ hopes to trade into the top 10 of today’s NBA draft don’t improve, the most action fans might see today is the Suns picking at Nos. 24 and/or 29 and trying to move Kurt Thomas’ expiring contract.

Even getting some luxury-tax relief by moving Thomas’ deal, worth $8.1 million next season, is no sure thing.

But the hubbub sure got the NBA nation worked into a lather, particularly with ESPN’s reports that three-team Garnett deals were in the works with Minnesota, Atlanta and Boston.

There seemed to be a lot of wishful thinking regarding Stoudemire’s availability, which remained as unlikely Wednesday as when initial Garnett rumors surfaced last week.

Hawks star Joe Johnson even called Stoudemire, his former Suns teammate, to tell him he’d like to reunite after Hawks officials approached Johnson with a proposal that had Garnett coming to Phoenix, Stoudemire going to Atlanta and a pick, likely Atlanta’s No. 3 overall selection, going to Minnesota.

The problem is it was a conversation that only Minnesota and Atlanta shared, although a Hawks owner claimed to veto the idea.

“We’ve never spoken with Atlanta about Amaré,” Suns General Manager Steve Kerr said Wednesday night, when he also called Stoudemire to assure him all rumors were bogus. “We have no idea why anybody would speculate on that.”

It was just as implausible that Stoudemire would go to Minnesota in a two-team Garnett deal, because two league sources said the Timberwolves did not want Stoudemire. They were interested in picks or salary-cap space.

It is clear that the Suns remained in Garnett talks, but the possibility of a deal always remained unlikely. Garnett is owed as much as $28.5 million next season if traded.

Phoenix was more intent and hopeful that it could find its way into the draft’s top 10. It spent the week preparing for such a chance. Phoenix went to Chinese power forward Yi Jianlian’s workout in Los Angeles on Monday and worked out Florida small forward Corey Brewer, Florida power forward Joakim Noah, Georgetown small forward Jeff Green, Florida State small forward Al Thornton and North Carolina power forward Brandan Wright over the past two days at US Airways Center.

As of late Wednesday, the prospects of Phoenix finding a trade partner in the top 10 appeared thwarted for a second consecutive year. Last year, the Suns had serious talks with Boston and Seattle, only to be turned down despite offering three first-round picks. And that draft was not nearly as stocked with impact players as this year’s.

“To be honest, nothing much is going on,” Kerr said. “We’ve got a few things out there. I really doubt anything major is going to happen. There’s a chance something might happen.”

He called any trades involving core players as “far-fetched.” However, a deal that would send Thomas to a team below the salary cap was possible. Phoenix does not have to take back within 125 percent of his $8.1 million salary if it trades him to a team below the cap, such as Charlotte.

The Bobcats also could provide Phoenix its best chance to get a top-10 pick. The Bobcats are selecting eighth, but insiders doubt they would pass on the players available for a package of Suns picks, whether it be one or both of their first-round picks today (at Nos. 24 and 29) and the 2008 Atlanta pick that the Hawks owe the Suns.

At No. 24, the Suns could be interested in Italian shooting guard Marco Belinelli and Spanish point guard Rudy Fernandez or an unexpected drop from a player such as Southern California guard Gabe Pruitt.

Wisconsin small forward Alando Tucker and Oregon point guard Aaron Brooks also are possibilities.

By A-Town Vet

June 28, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Anakin, I am right there with you. Lets just hope this deal gets done.

By OddJob

June 28, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Well we know exactly dick about what will happen between now and the end of the draft.I’m clear on one thing though.If we have a choice to trade for Ridnour,Calderon or Monta Ellis Calderon is an easy pick.I don’t see where Ridnour has any advantage over Calderon and Ellis is more a 2 than 1.

By james jones

June 28, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

i figured as much sekou!!! that vetoed thing was ficticious. thanks for the update and keep on keeping on.

By Anakin Joe

June 28, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Thanks Sekou. I need to place a call to Boston to call something off that I had in the works. Let’s just say Belkin was about to go on a boat ride and my associate had an empty bowling ball bag ready to use.

By A-Town Vet

June 28, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Thanks Sekou for the update. How can anyone involve with the hawks not see that trading for Amare is a no Brainer!

By Sekou K. Smith

June 28, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Folks, no deal was vetoed by Belkin or anyone else. And just because the talking heads say it or it’s on insider doesn’t make it so.

This stuff you’ve been hearing about is all just conversation, sometimes between members of the same organization. Most of it is just chatter.

But like we’ve seen so many times before, any real deal, any deal with half a chance of getting done, get’s done behind closed doors. And not through the media.

As soon as there is anything REAL to report, it’ll be here. So keep an eye out throughout the day. And I’ll be blogging live during the draft tonight, so make sure you’re around.

By OddJob

June 28, 2007 9:37 AM | Link to this

Don I like Hawes too,I have the whole way.The only reason he’s not mentioned on my last post is, I don’t see where we’d take him if we go big at 3 or with Amare.

By jhan

June 28, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Doc, either that or he would have shown he wasn’t really that good. No way of telling for sure.

It sounds like you are going to get your wish. The Chinese express is going to stop in ATL.

Hope you are right. If Conley wins ROY next year, how do you plan on spinning that?

By roan st

June 28, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Guys, I just read the article and it said one of the hawks owners had vetoed a HYPOTHETICAL trade that would land amare stoudemire. Do you guys know what that means? The phoneix suns org is adamant that they have NEVER included amare stoudemire in any trade talks. They maintain that this whole amare plot was hatched between billy knight and kevin mchale and they want no part of it. So please don’t come on this message board and claim that belkin has killed a trade that was signed off on by all parties. That is just pure fantasy and this trade won’t happen because phoneix is not going to trade amare period. It has absolutely nothing to do with steve belkin.

By J

June 28, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

Belkin has been the hold up on any decent Hawks trade/free agency idea. He was the hold up on the Joe Johnson trade and AGAIN he is the hold up on a no brainer in bringing Amare here to Atlanta.

By doc

June 28, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

a-town you havent been reading. those stats are for international competiton, you know the one where the usa cant win.

his stats in china are 24 and 12, with his being on the championship team 3 of 4 years. his numbers have improved every year. quality of play is not nba, dotn know how it compares to ncaa, however grown men are in it plus every team is allowed a foreign player to bethe man on the team to which the chinese defer to for their leadership without question.

By Almost Done?

June 28, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this

Dear Hawks,

This is your last chance. If you blow this draft or let the ownership situation ruin a great trade then I am done. Right now the organization is a joke. I have been loyal for the last 20 years and I am tired of all the talk with no action. Fix the ownership mess and get the Hawks back in the playoffs.

By A-Town Vet

June 28, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Please explain to me why people are so high in yi’s talent wen he avg 6pt and 5 rebounds for the league oversees which many compare to divison II basketball here. Maybe for marketing purposes but for talent I say no.

By m berry

June 28, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

TAKE AMARE STOUDIMIRE IF GIVEN THE CHANCE. I understand that an owner will not sign off on this, which kills the deal -STUPID. Draft Conley or Horford with #3 pick, AC Law with #11. Ridnour is a defensive liability and Seattle knows it.IF YI IS DRAFTED AT #3, THE GENERAL MANAGER AND COUCH WILL BE FIRED, THOUGH ONE OWNER WOULD BE HAPPY FOR POSSIBLE CHINESE ENDORSMENTS. Draft for basketball talent, not for endorsments.

By A-Town Vet

June 28, 2007 8:38 AM | Link to this

Birdman, heres the link. http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2919016

It looks like Belkin strikes again, these guys are stupid. How can you veto this trade. I guess Billy was right about his reluctance o want to spend money.

By jay

June 28, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this

In the meantime, Belkin holds some authority over the team. He can veto any trade or free agent signing that takes the team above the NBA salary cap. Several sources suggested that it was Belkin who vetoed the trade.

This fiasco isn’t the only situation the Hawks are dealing with. Sources said that Knight is in a dispute with some of the Hawks owners over who to take at No. 3. Knight prefers Florida’s Al Horford. Some in the Hawks ownership, including influential owner Michael Gearon Jr., want to draft Yi Jianlian out of China.

By JohnGTfan

June 28, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

Scooby

Yes, he nixed the Stoudemire deal…but he is not the one how wants to draft Yi. Half of the owners want Yi because of the amount of business they do in China.

By ScoobySnacks

June 28, 2007 8:21 AM | Link to this

Make sure all you Belkin lover’s remember that he is the one holding up the Stoudemire trade and demanding that we draft Yi. Check out the article on Espn.com

By Samuel

June 28, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this

Atlanta Hawks

One of the favorites to win the East. That just don’t sound right. So I just can’t get my hopes up on this Amare deal.

That being said. I think our best move would be to draft Yi at #3.

There are only a few teams who have been approved by his reps to even sign this dude according to reports. The list is: ATL, Bos, Chicago, LAC, LAL, Golden State, PHL, PHX and Sac.

I say we draft him and call the shots on who we want from these teams.

The Al Jefferson, Kobe, Monta Ellis, and Amare deals would be easier then, since this is basically who they all are jocking for. The big China Bucks.

I also love Jose Calderon, I said that early in the season. Calderon for Childress is a no brainer for me.

By doc

June 28, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this

my theory is that this is all flash’s fault. if you remember he was the one who said amare was done, saying it this year AFTER amare got off to a good start. i figure he also still has belkin’s ear though he adamantly denies it. he is the one who gave belkin the reminder how fragile amare was and stopped the whole deal. flash, you are powerful dude, some suspect belkin himself.

By JJ

June 28, 2007 8:03 AM | Link to this

LOL at the Suns fans on here talking trash to Hawks fans. Wow. Get a life.

By doc

June 28, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this

does anyone think that if yi had played at ucla last year he wouldnt have avg close to a double/double or at least come close with rebounds?

if he had, would there be anyone out there that would doubt drafting him 3 or wonder why he wasnt as good a talent as the top two in this draft? wouldnt his numbers be as good if not better than oden or horford?

is it the lack of exposure to your tv screen with no appearances in march madness that gets in the way of acknowledging how good he is?

they speak of yi’s disapointing numbers in the international tournament last year. has any sub 22 player from the u s or anyone else come out and really played well in those exhibitions and still gone on to greatness? look back, some pretty good ones including labron who didnt make a splash in his first one.

By BIRDMAN

June 28, 2007 7:59 AM | Link to this

Sekou - I’m sure you are swamped today, but I’d love your input on this. I’ve read several times that the in-fighting with the Hawks is reaching epic levels and it’s possible Belkin vetoed the Amare deal. Any truth to this? Is this ownership issue going to be resolved soon? Does Stern step in?

By gene

June 28, 2007 7:31 AM | Link to this

The only way Amare Stoudemire comes here next season is on the Sun’s charter flight (along with the rest of the Phoenix team) when they play the Hawks.

Dream on.

By The Don

June 28, 2007 5:58 AM | Link to this

JohnGTfan: “He would be a positive buzz for the franchise…you would get more fans in the stands”

So would winning.

Having more people attend the first 10 games of next year does nothing. And watching the game on TNT or SportsSouth or ESPN makes no difference to me.

THE DON

By The Don

June 28, 2007 5:52 AM | Link to this

Amare’s knee is still messed up. That is why he is on the trading block.

By JohnGTfan

June 28, 2007 5:35 AM | Link to this

Freakin BK and the “owners” proving their ignorance yet again!!!! Publicly torn between who to draft at no.3 should ATL keep the pick!!! Just dumb!!! If ATL does keep the pick…people can stop wishing for Conley with the no.3. Either Yi or Horford will be picked here should ATL stay put. NOONE ELSE WILL BE PICKED BY ATL HERE! I don’t mind the Yi pick, for “face value”. He would be a positive buzz for the franchise…you would get more fans in the stands…more games on TNT (imagine that, based out of ATL) and ESPN…etc. I still prefer the trade for Amare, I don’t see anyway ATL can thrown in Shelden Williams or Marvin Williams along with AJ and no.3 and no.11. I have no problem with AJ and ZAZA, but not Shelden or Marvin. Just my thoughts. Well folks, only 13 1/2 hours until we find out!!!!

By The Don

June 28, 2007 5:23 AM | Link to this

Nick Young and Hawes as I’ve said all along.

although I can see the Hawks picking the Yi as Rick Bucher said it wouldn’t be for basketball reasons with a straight face. Yi will be a bust.

THE DON

By OddJob

June 28, 2007 5:04 AM | Link to this

If the Amare trade doesn’t happen here’s my current view.We take Horford or Yi at 3.We trade Childress for Calderon.I’ve watched him and analized his game,history,body type,etc.The guy is the closest thing to Parker we’ll find who’s not named Conley.This may get a laugh but he could be better than Conley.He’s longer,quick,a very good shooter and passer.He can flat out penetrate and he doesn’t turn the ball over…..With the 11,since Childress would be gone I’d look at Young from USC.The kid is a gamer with a great motor who can get his own shot and plays big at big moments.Thats the kind of 6th man who could give a spark to the team.So here’s the lineup….Calderon—JJ—Marvin—Josh—Horford or Yi with Young,Shelden,Lue,Jones,etc off the bench.That looks like a really balanced team to me.

By Just Wondering????

June 28, 2007 4:27 AM | Link to this

Why would the Wolves send Garnett to the Suns, who then trade Stoudemire to the Hawls, who then trade scrubs and picks to the Wolves.

Why would you do that?

You trade those picks and players to the Wolves and you get Stoudemire?

Why wouldn’t you just trade the picks and payers straight up for Garnet and tell the Sun c to go F themselves.

By Contra

June 28, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this

Listen to Ken Strickland.

By Stu

June 28, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

HEY GUYS. CHECK OUT ESPN.COM. APPARENTLY BELKIN VETOED THE AMARE TRADE AND GEARON JR. WANTS KNIGHT TO DRAFT YI OVER HORFORD. DO YOU GUYS NEED ANY MORE REASONS TO BOYCOTT THIS SORRY OUTFIT OF A PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL ORGANIZATION!!!!!!!

By Stu

June 28, 2007 2:55 AM | Link to this

HEY GUYS. CHECK OUT ESPN.COM. APPARENTLY BELKIN VETOED THE AMARE TRADE AND GEARON JR. WANTS KNIGHT TO DRAFT YI OVER HORFORD. DO YOU GUYS NEED ANY MORE REASONS TO BOYCOTT THIS SORRY OUTFIT OF A PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL ORGANIZATION!!!!!!!

By Ken Strickland

June 28, 2007 2:01 AM | Link to this

I’m not advocating we draft Yi, but consider this. A couple of decades ago, critics questioned the durability, and lack of weight of another player that was even less athletic than Yi. They questioned whether he could handle the physical play of the NBA. That concern was increased when, during a pickup game, he punched an apposing player for being too physical and fractured his jaw. The player ultimately filed a law suit against Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and it was settled out of court.

The only difference between then rookie Jabbar and Yi, size wise, is a couple of inches. Yi is probably a little quicker, more athletic, and has a better outside game. People, please stop placing your personal feelings, limitations, and preferences on the backs of these players. Some of you are soooo superficial. How can anyone is their right mind expect a 7’1” versatile, athletic Chinese guy to play at least 4yrs of international basketball and still be unknown? Those who want Amare are questioning Horfords ability to play the 5, although the 2 are virtually the same size. Those who favor Horford are now questioning whether Amare, an allpro 5, can actually play the 5. Then you have those questioning Amare’s knees, but had no problem with the idea of trading for injury prone JOneal or MCamby.

I’m glad this whole thing is coming to an end, because some of you are starting to sound rediculous. Anyway, it’s all good. We’re down to hours now instead of days. Let’s wait and see how this all plays out. GO HAWKS!!!!!!

By OddJob

June 28, 2007 1:55 AM | Link to this

Well fellow draft-nics this sure ain’t like last year.Shelden was a lock and we really know less on the eve of the draft than we THOUGHT we knew the night of the lottery.It almost looks like somebody decided to blow the max smoke just before show time.Give management credit for at least creating some drama.Think about it,do any of you feel like you have a better idea of what’s happening tonight than you had last night ? not me,not by a long shot.

By GHook

June 28, 2007 1:43 AM | Link to this

What a surprise, a Chad Fraud article is complete BS.

Belkin has no say on the Hawks unless the trade puts us over the cap or it involves a player with a contract longer than 4 years. This deal does neither, therefore Belkin is not involved.

I’m not saying the trade will happen or it won’t happen, because nobody knows for sure. My guess is talks have cooled and now Chad Fraud and the other “analysts” over at ESPN are trying to cover themselves because 6 hours ago they were saying the deal was practically done.

Don’t buy into the hype. Wait until tomorrow night, we’ll know everything then.

By james jones

June 28, 2007 1:43 AM | Link to this

i wouldn’t go as far as saying God bless him yet unless we draft yi… if we draft al then we’re stuck on the same spot. but they have a vision (i need their glasses though). that amare deal was a big one though. zaza, 3, 11, aj… a lot to lose really. zaza and the 3 wuda been str8. zaza’s not amare but he’s good.

By OddJob

June 28, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

I really am not convinced that the Amare trade would be the best use of resorces.That said, if Belkin vetoed the thing it’s hard to believe it was for the betterment of the team.Oh by the way Duncan a true center made all nba as a forward-Stoudamire a true forward as a center.So you can say all you want about Amare being the best young center,it’s just a technicality in my book.

By Lifelong Hawks Fan

June 28, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

Just got back from a single “A” baseball game here in SoCal and I was truly disappointed to see the trade that never was. I don’t care really about the trade itself. I’m just disgusted by the ownership fiasco still rearing it’s ugly head.

What young kid or potential free agents will want to play here now? I understand that players will take money. But I can guarantee that we will have to throw twice as much as any other team to get these guys into town. Just pitiful. That’s about all I can say.

By the way……..the High Desert Mavericks beat the Lake Elsinore Storm 10-7. Sat behind home plate, Gilly’s big brother Brian was there on rehab. Great ballpark for the league!

By james jones

June 28, 2007 1:27 AM | Link to this

i’m fed up!!! and i’m supposed to be happy waiting somewhere i was too busy reading everyone blog the same thing over and over yesterday and i had no new ideas. for all i car they can draft britney spears and mandy moore and w’d all still be hawks’ fans. i wanted that amare deal so much despite i’m one of te “yi wheel barrowers” i know what amare and smoove inside would be but let’s face it if they draft horford that’ll be the only mistake they can make. he’s not special in anyway. infact he’s the one regular player among the top prospects who is just a fit anywhere. can we draft talent for a change and not the safe guy? i don’t care what they do even if it’s conley buthorford was my best player in college (believe it or not) but he doesn’t fit into what we have rght now. yi is the most special person in this draft after durant. ok maybe oden too. but let’s draft a star please!!! belkin can catch the next black train to hell for all i care with that v-towed crap!!! we gotta wait now ya’ll but lets be fans and hope that whatever we get works.

By Jr.

June 28, 2007 1:25 AM | Link to this

God bless Steve Belkin.

By reese

June 28, 2007 1:22 AM | Link to this

I’m on the owners side on this one. Yi at 3 is the way its got to be. If Minnesota and Phoenix really want the deal to get done, then do it on my terms.

That would be Hawks send #11 pick, Lorenzen, AJ and Sheldon to minnesota. The hawks receive Amare from Phoenix and Minnesota’s 2nd round pick.

Phoenix sends their 24th pick and hawks unprotected pick for 2008 to Minnesota. Phoenix receives Garnett.

Minnesota sends garnett to phoenix. Minnesota receives the hawks #11, phoenix’s number 24 and unprotected hawks pick for 2008, Lorenzen, Anthony Johnson and Sheldon.

The hawks use the #3 pick to take Yi. They use the Minnesota 2nd round pick to pick whatever.

Face it folks, Phoenix once had Amare, JJ, Nash and Marion. They were still bounced from the playoffs. The hawks need more than just Amare who has repeatedly stated that he does not like playing center.

Now, the hawks owners are happy, the coach would be happy and Money would be flowing in from many sources.

If Phoenix and Minnesota don’t like the deal, then go ahead and pick Yi at 3 and work another deal to acquire other needed assets via trades, the 11th pick or free agency.