Hawks

By The Flash

September 24, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

HEADLINE: ANDOMAN REACHES NEW HEIGHTS; HERE’S HOPIN DA TEAM DOES THE SAME My boy Coppenwrath is a legit 6’11”, understands the game, has quick feet, great hands,

Knowing what needs to get done from moment to moment provides some possibility that it will.

Doesn’t anybody anywhere like my boy Coppenwrath? You sure you’re not he, Ando?

By smartguy

September 24, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Roy probably wouldn’t have been ROY under Woody. Mike Woodson needs to learn how to use the players he does have before he starts talking about someone he would like to have.

By jhan

September 24, 2007 8:17 AM | Link to this

Hey doc - I’d love to hook up in the near future. Haven’t seen anyone since the draft party.

Ando - great to see you haven’t lost your edge. Can’t wait to see what you bring mid-season.

Charlotte looks good now - wait until JRich, May & Okafor all make their yearly visit to the IR.

Same goes for Boston - they look great on paper but what happens when those 30+ year old knees fall apart for Allen & the back/elbow/knees put Pierce on the sideline? I still like the moves but he is rolling the dice.

Can’t argue one bit about the Sheldon/Roy comparison. You know Woodson would love to have Roy on his squad.

Look forward to seeing what this years Hawks have to offer. Has to be better than what I’ve seen the last three years.

By doc

September 23, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

sekou, great interview and one for the inquiring minds that want to know. first two questions were on everyone’s minds.

ray i also get the theme that it may be hard for woody to give up his old habits. can we find a 12 step program for him to help him make the transition. he just doesnt have the horses to play the type of game he wants to play. i see the team bounding better when they are aggressive going down the court when it is three on three instead of set up five on five.

ando, you will get the head’s up when the mykh man comes in. maybe jhan would want to go back to your fav watering hole after some vibes with the vibe man of the west coast.

By ray

September 23, 2007 6:46 AM | Link to this

I’d take the liquor, Ando. And that’s coming from a guy who’s not much of a drinker ( I do so when I choose, and simply won’t when I don’t).

In the meantime, hoping for a trade that brings us a sufficient center. Otherwise, look for Horford to incur early injuries or hit the rookie wall especially hard, simply because his obvious talent will land him ingraciously smack dead in the middle of the paint (also due to ineptitude of his fellow low-post mates). And in letting the tough-as-nails Batista go, another body to throw into the grinder is gone. Funny, I too remember how he manned-up admirably against Shaq, particularly considering he averaged near-negative minutes all season. For cryin’ out loud, I might have kept him ahead of some OTHER guys we still have lurking.

By mykhalc

September 23, 2007 2:42 AM | Link to this

ANDO, that would be VERY COOL!!! DOC’s got details.

DOC, you got mail!!!

By HB Ando

September 23, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

Also, Doc and Myc, as a frequent face-to-facer with the good Doctor, I would be pleased as punch to be invited to any, brief social gathering, upon your visit to Hotlanta.

If you two deem it as appropriate, and of interest, to ole’ Ando join you for drinks and trash talk (I have some very fun, somewhat shady, recommendations for a watering hole), then I’d be honored.

Doc, you have both my number and my e-mail address. Let me know if this would fit in with your plans.

By HB Ando

September 23, 2007 1:10 AM | Link to this

OK, the comment, or, more specifically, the omission, which was most obvious in SS’s interview with Woody, was his comment that of Marvin, Josh and Josh, only Childress had gotten 3 years of quality coaching at the college level.

Hmm, what about Shelden getting four years from Coach K?! That is the same guy who seemingly is leading America’s Olympic team towards the gold, after years of individualistic flailing (not unlike the performance of the young Hawks).

Isn’t it safe to interpret this, especially in light of highlighting Horford and Law’s more lengthy college experiences, that even Woody is still wondering, to this day, why the heck Billy took Shelden over Brandon Roy?

And isn’t this all really much adieu about nothing, since it’s pretty damn obvious that Woody’s not going to be the coach of the Hawks for the next 5-10 years?

And, to quote Mike, Hartford (sic) will bring a wholly new dimension to the Hawks, that they haven’t had since, well, they told us that they’d drafted Shelden Williams, exactly one year before, to play that exact role. It continues to astound me that the obviously few, educated hoops fans, in this city, are expected to exhibit amnesia, from year to year, on spectacularly ridiculous front office moves, like Shelden at five last year, and now a non-entity, as replaced by the selection of Horford.

For the life of me, this is the stupidest bunch of highly paid NBA basketball executives on the planet earth (all comparisons to the Knicks aside; I mean they did just get a guy who averaged 25 and 10 from the Western Conference, for essentially nothing).

Doc’s favorite whipping boy, Danny Ainge, finds himself with a starting 3 of Pierce, Allen and KG, with a highly respected, young playmaker in Rondo (the first of the two 1st rounders we gave up in the Johnson fiasco).

Charlotte has Felton, J Rich, Wallace, May and Okafor.

We have 3 athletic, skilled wings, in JS, MW and JJ, 3 washed PG’s, who have been primarily back ups their whole careers, with a rookie to compete with them, and two PF’s, who will compete for time at the forward slot with JS and MW, and neither of whom is a legitimate center candidate.

We have a coach who, according to a well-constructed spin job with Sekou Smith, almost says some things that lead to hope, if you’re a person who’d on either side of a second decade of cognitive dissonance.

Here’s a question: Woody, how do you intend to defend against the following low-post players in the Eastern Conference, this season: Shaq, Dwight Howard, Randolph and Curry, KG, Sheed and McDyess, Ziggy, Gooden and AV, Okafor, Dalembert, Bosh and Bargnani, Big Ben, Ty Thomas and Noah, J. O’Neal, Bogut, Charlie V and Yi, and, finally, the ever-battling tandem of Haywood and Thomas?

Look, some of these guys are border line dogs. And yet they still look, on the just about anybodies paper, as more than the Hawks can handle in the post.

I’m not even going to get into the West.

Do we need to play up tempo? Damn straight. Will that change our ability to match up with almost every other teams’ bigs, in the NBA? Not a chance.

Our wing match ups, on most nights, will be very close to draws. And our post and PG match ups will consistently be in the other teams’ favor.

Analyzing and projecting is like poker: it’s not so much how much you like your hand, as understanding just how strong your opponents’ hand is, relative to yours.

We’ll be short stacked and hoping for river suck outs all season long.

Prepare yourselves for the numbness that is required, to take another year of futility. Or stock up on hard liquor and hope that chronic, near-nightly inebriation will soften the pain of another year of NBA door mat status.

On another note, Anthony Robbins has recently reached out to me, to tap my other worldly talents for motivational sermons. I know that you guys see me as someone who always squeezes the most out of logically hopeful projections. I only hope I can spring board, from my last few years here, the kind of inpenetrable optimism that I’ve bestowed upon my fellow Hawks’ fans.

I feel blessed………

By Astro Joe

September 22, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

Sekou, thanks for the super-strong interview with our beloved coach (cough, cough). Seriously, solid questions and decent answers. I wish he wouldn’t answer the uptempo question by discussing defense, but he’s a defensive coach so I guess that’s to be expected. I will still “believe it when I see it”. He could have maintained that uptempo scheme more frequently last year but opted to have his team face a 5-man defense instead. Is it time for the freaking season to start yet?

By Mike

September 22, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this

Thanks Doc, I’ve been beat’em up pretty bad. Mykhalc can’t say I disagree with ya. Salim is my boy and you know how he’s been treating him. So I feel your pain bro.

By mykhalc

September 22, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

DOC, i got your email address on the computer in the studio. so shoot me an email so i can hit ya back from the apt. bring you up-to-date with the details…

mike, i’m a team player but WOODSON wears blinders!!! i’ve given him the benefit of doubt for 2 yrs. TIMES UP!!!!! EVERYONE on the blog has recognized the strength of this team when it is allowed to run. even if my man ANDO does put an asterisk on the west coast victories (ain’t it so ANDO???) ;-) you would think that the coach would be the FIRST to have the freakin’ light bulb go off???!!!??? BLINDERS…JUST STUBBORN…GOT A POINT TO PROVE??..oh i know…NOT READY FOR PRIMETIME!!!..WHATEVER??!!……TIMES UP!!!

By doc

September 22, 2007 7:17 PM | Link to this

mike luv ya man but it is horford and he might get after you if you continue to call him hartford. big dogs, myk and atf got it going. ill muscle test atf for his big a** pain and inject him with a few needles.

myk you in town tuesday?

By A Thinking Fan

September 22, 2007 6:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s play ball fellas! Make an old school playa want to lace them up! You ready Flash? Hmmm, there goes that pain again in my bottom Doc from sitting on it too long… Come on Ando & AJ gives us your opinion.

By Mike

September 22, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

Sekou great Q & A my man, you’re a true professional.

Woodson comments can be interpreted and many different ways, but I’m going to give him the benefit of the doubt. I’m taking a wait and see approach going to the start of the season on Woodson.

Guys before I get run off this blog I’m not defending Woody. I’m just saying no excuse will do for Woody this year any way. I’m a team player so I gotta support my team. As long as he’s the coach he’s part of the team. However I ‘m not in no way give him my full endorsement. We all know this team struggle if he plays that same old scheme. I’m just saying if he allows these guys to play uptempo ball, we’ll see a different team even with him coaching.

Doc I might need an extra strong batch of Kool-aid after this post, if you ain’t kick me off the team bro.

By mykhalc

September 22, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, great Q & A!!! thanks for askin’ the questions that so many us wanted to hear some answers to. it ALL sounds good and reads promisin’ but…

now back to what i was sayin’ in my 1:58pm post….

By ray

September 22, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

First of all SEKOU, you are the man for delivering that Q & A with Woodson. I don’t know if you planned that all along or if you were just throwing your faithful bloggers a bone. Doesn’t matter, just happy that you did it. Thanks, man.

Woodson appears to be cautiously stepping toward change in the way the offense will run. That’s good, except he is still sounding very conservative about it. He’s right about the defense and rebounding. My fear however, is that (going by his statements) he sounds like he might be saying “we’ll try getting up and down the court, but if we don’t make shots (right away, or as much as I think we should), we’re going to go right back to a purely defensive game.”

Of course, I could be wrong. The other way of taking it is that he’s saying ” we are going to try getting up and down the court and score more, but we can’t lose sight of the fact that we have to maintain a defensive intensity (and rebounding) in order to win. Defensive cannot be forsaken for nothing but offense.” I hope that this is the mentality, not the ol’ “ooooohh, our offense is not working at the moment, let’s just play defense and go back to playing inept half court sets wherein we make an attempt to somehow score in 24 seconds.”

Also, I notice how he mentions that the successful teams win because they play defense and rebound. Yeah, they also score. And the most important thing separating them from the rest of the field? Balance, chemistry, and much better player-coach relationships. Hell, every team has some talent. It’s the NBA. If you have a roster, you’ve some some talent. We have quite a bit, but less balance, less chemistry, and you know about the coach-player situation.

A successful team has bought into the head coach’s philosophy and style. He is the undisputed leader. I don’t care what our Hawks players are saying. They’ll keep making the right “public” and interview statements, but they haven’t completely bought into what Woodson brings, and part of that is because it has been anything but consistently successful. You could tell all last season, because they didn’t play like it most of the time. I’m not talking about winning vs. losing, either. I’m simply talking about competing. This is the year to prove what will be or not be, because the future is NOW. There’s no escaping it, no saying it’s next year, none of that. This is the year for production from players and coaches. Either it gets done or it doesn’t.

Having said all that, I have to say that I’m pleased with Woodson’s terrific attitude (at least based on what he said in the interview). He pretty much recognized the team’s strengths, something many of us questioned for some time. Now he’s gone and said it. It just about goes without saying that actions speak louder than words, of course. His mention of the fans, playoffs, and what not didn’t hurt at all, either. I feel better about the guy than I have in two years. But I am ready to see some results.

By mykhalc

September 22, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

DOC, WOODSON needs to be muscle tested for lack of up-tempo coachin’ skills!!!LOL

i really do cringe at the thought of him bein’ HC for another year. GEESSHH!!! what is DREW’s new role that others on here have alluded to??? short of him actually replacin’ WOODSON, i don’t see how ‘whatever’ his new duties are will help this team out when WOODSON shows that classic dumb-founded look he ALWAYS shows durin’ games!!!! CLUELESS!!!!!

By cp

September 22, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Im hoping that Woody has changed some of his ways. That crap about not playing good in practice although the players performed well in games baffled me. If they are doing it when it counts then put them in the game. He has got to get a better substitution pattern.. At least one of our rookies should be in the rookie sophomore game this year if not both. I just dont see Speedy holding up and Lue is better coming off the bench. Right now I have hope that we can make the playoffs but that can change soon depending on how much improvement Woody shows this year.

By Mike

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

Yea Doc I agree. While Salim is my boy, I’m down with the whole squad. I want to see all of the young guys step up. Especially Zaza, I’m always a little hard on Zaza because of his defense but he’s still a young guy and he’s a good player. If he could some how go to wizard and get a heart he’d be one H of a player. I am also very excited about two young rooks. I think they both bring some toughness to team.

So I just want to reaffirm my strong belief that this is the young Hawks year. The two guys that will lead this team will still be Joe and JSmoove. I expect Acie Law to make a hard push for some serious PT time. That’s cool because I think he and Salim would be a deadly combination coming off the bench with the second squad. Hartford game is playing in the post so that’s another added dimension we didn’t have last year.

By Tim

September 22, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

I agree, if this is not the year for the Hawks, when will be? Then again, it is the Hawks.

Here’s our season preview for the Hawks (as well as the Sixers). We’re quite high on Josh Smith.

http://shamrockheadband.blogspot.com/2007/09/nba-preview-more-entertaining-adequacy.html

By doc

September 22, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

yeah, mike maybe a little strong but cool. i like salim too, i just hope over the summer he learned how to practice. you know how woody is even if you show you can play in games you dont get time unless you do it his way and be a practice player.

By mike

September 22, 2007 3:34 AM | Link to this

Alright enough Kool-aide guys, I agree comparing potential i.e. (Wright) to a proven commodity JRichardson was a bit unrealistic. That was a reaching too far. But I stand my assertion about Salim. Whether it’s with the Hawks or some other teams, shooter like Salim can fit in any system. All he needs is consistence playing time to get his stroke going. Once he gets his stroke going he can go off for 20 in a quarter. Right now the only other player on the Hawks roster capable of going off for 20 is Joe. So it behooves Woody to get my boy more playing time.

It’s a given that Marvin, Chill or even Salim maybe be part of a trade package eventually. We just need to make sure when we pull the trigger is for a young quality player that plays 5 spot, nothing else will dramatically improve the make-up of the current roster.

Doc make that last batch of Kool-aide was too strong bro.

By JCDOCPC

September 21, 2007 11:37 PM | Link to this

Yes, I think the Hawks will make the playoffs too. I think we have a very good core team and vey athlethic players. The Hawks did not win a lot of games last year, but I bet a lot of teams are scared to death to play us. I really believe injuries prevented a better season. But in a way I am glad we got those two lottery picks at two positions we could use them. I said playoffs, but I don’t know how deep we can go without a true center.

By HB Ando

September 21, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this

Myc and ATF, what up?!!

Joe is right; we’re about one little, angry Asian away from a quorum. And outlandish as it might have sounded 2 years ago, if you look at the numbers, Josh has already surpassed AK47 as the defensive, stat-gobbling machine. So from where I’m sitting, you’re talking about bringing in an inferior version of JOSH SMITH, when what we need is a smooth-shooting forward (Marvin?) or a low-post machine (Al?) to complement Smith’s weak side dunks and blocks. Either way, you need a five to make a viable front line.

If we thought Smith was too worried about getting off 3’s, wait till you get a load of AK. If you want to play with your trade matcher, figure out how we can send Marvin to Utah for Okur. And watch teams try to figure out how to score against a team who’s shot blockers are the 3 and 4 (Josh and Al), and who’s best outside shooter (besides Joe), is their center, Okur.

Now that’s a match up nightmare.

By A Thinking Fan

September 21, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

Hey Doc I’m just chillin’. Taking a long break and getting in shape/ready for the looooong upcoming NBA season. Wasn’t BK lucky with way the draft picks fell? Dude lucked out. Flash is back, Ando & AJ - WOW!

The rest of the crew has held it down nicely. I take my peeks when I can & could…

By doc

September 21, 2007 5:35 PM | Link to this

RIP VAN ATF, you can go back to sleep with your buddy ando. we know you been peekin, question is have you dreamed up anything?

By ray

September 21, 2007 5:22 PM | Link to this

Love the imagination, Joe, but have to wonder aloud if AK47 doesn’t duplicate Josh Smith more than Marvin ever could. Not saying I wouldn’t take the guy, but every trade scenario we come up with seems to take us further away from getting what we really need: a center. And we’d be where we always are: with a plethora of swingmen.

On the other hand, we’d certainly still have plenty of trade bait. And it works IF Zaza turns up tougher than he ever has and/or Horford becomes the post monster a guy like Okafor or Howard is. But that’s a wait and see like everything else involving this team.

Again, great imagination. And more than I expect from managment, unfortunately. Hell, I don’t even see them trying to pick up a guy like Sarunas Jasikevicius (spelling?) who just became a free agent. Maybe he’s not a good one to pick up, but you’re talking about a 6’4” guard who can pass it and probably is a better shooter than his stats would suggest. Why not get him and unload one of our short pgs? Ah well, just imagination…

By Astro Joe

September 21, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

So AK47 may consider walking away from NBA to break off the marriage with Utah. Oh for a creative GM/Coach combo. According to RealGM trade machine, the following works as a legit trade: AK47 & Ronnie Brewer for Marvin, Chill, Lorenzen and AJ. Imagine a fast-paced line-up featuring AK47 and Smith blocking everything in sight. Those 2 collectively could potentially supplement either Zaza, Shelden or Horford in the pivot. With Brewer playing Chill’s “glue swing man” role, we could have a team capable of incredible highlights on both ends of the floor. Especially with a healthy Speedy leading the fast break and Law providing half-court offense with JJ and Zaza or Horford when teams force us to slow it down. Of course, this requires funding, an imaginative coach and a GM who is willing to let go of 2 of his personal selections (Marvin & Chill). I’d do it, not sure Utah would (although Chill is a perfect player for Sloan and Marvin could blossom under that type of disciplined offense).

By A Thinking Fan

September 21, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this

Has the season started yet?

By doc

September 21, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this

mike, ando points to the reality. wallace and richardson are complimentary and make each other better. they may have similar body types but they are dissimilar when it comes to abilites. there is also a big difference in trading a player like rip in the league vs a rook coming in at 19 as far as the knock on jordan.

we spent last year wondering who would fill the role that richardson now fills. remember it was to be marvin, then lue became the guy until he broke down, then we all wondered why salim sat and all we could find out was that he wasnt a practice player. neither am i or certainly a guy who thrives when the blood boils. now we look to acie like the bobcats looked to morrison to fill the role as a rookie.

there is a huge difference between potential or promise vs a proven. what do you want for your daughter a proven quantity with a future or the guy with a lot of potential? if you say the latter make some more kool aide. cant buy it for now and wont go that route. we will see in 10 games how much game this team has. last year i expected 7 of th first 20 and got a quick 8. this year i dont know, maybe there will be some good losses early or we can talk in those terms, again it will be potential. if i do know that i am drinking the kool aide again with you and have lost touch with reality for the moment. we need to be more now rather than maybe’s and down the road’s.

By mykhalc

September 21, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

all the cats are here!!! “it’s deja vu all over again”!!!

wassup ANDO!!!

By Mike

September 21, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Ray, you make some valid points, but Gerald Wallace is just starting to come into his own. He’s definitely a more complete player than JRichardson. Don’t forget as good as Wallace is on defense, he put some gaudy numbers on offense too. Brandon Wright will definitely have to put on some weight, but Okurfor plays the post so he would have had time develop and grown into the PF position. The guy is a high flyer with tremendous upside. He’s just too much talent to trade away for a player that similar to a player that already have.

Adam Morrison is a different story. I was strictly referring to trade involving JRichardson and Wright. I like JRichardson I think he’s a very explosive player. But the Bobcats will still need Wallace offense to win. Remember a skinny don’t have to be Chris Bosh to be a Big, so it’s unrealistic to expect these guys to have those type skills. If Wright put on some weight he’ll be okay, he has everything else. BTW that uptempo offense that GS run is perfect for Wright. That’s why I say that trade might come back to haunt MJ.

By Astro Joe

September 21, 2007 8:56 AM | Link to this

The boys are coming back to gather around the liar’s table. Good stuff. Where’s Abe? Abe, come join in on the fun, camp starts in less than 2 weeks. We need to practice our key strokes while Smith practices his 30 footers, Speedy finds his wardrobe for th injury list and Ando finds his _ with a flashlight.

By ray

September 21, 2007 5:41 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe,

Now come on man. Asking such a thing of dear ol’ Ando is like asking a fish not to swim. Not only is it contrary to the very nature of the creature, it might even be considered impossible. Of course, you would likely have much better luck at getting the fish to grasp such a concept than you would….well, you know. : )

By ray

September 21, 2007 5:29 AM | Link to this

Mike, I have to disagree with you on JRich and Gerald Wallace. Wallace is a more active and effective defender. Richardson is clearly more explosive and effective on offense. The Bobcats thought they had the future sewed up on offense when the got Adam Morrison, but it has yet to come to fruition (maybe never). Richardson helps the situtation, but the question is how much. As for Brandon Wright, I would not consider him a “big” yet. A “tall”, definitely. If he turns out like Chris Bosh did (hey, he was skinny too, but a easily a better shooter), then all is well. If not, hey…the guy is not likely ever going to be an enforcer, but they have Okafor for that.

However, you’re right: MJ wants to win now. One thing is for sure. For Ray Felton, the time is now. No Brevin Knight around to take minutes away. We get to see what Felton will do with the lion’s share of minutes night after night.

By ray

September 21, 2007 5:20 AM | Link to this

Well, well. If it isn’t ol’ Ando.

I would welcome you back, but I knew you weren’t really gone. Seeing as how you’ve pulled up a chair already, what would you like to drink? I know you don’t like the koolaid that’s being passed around (not my favorite either) so what’ll it be?

Uhh..I played organized basketball in high school and pick-up games in college. Those were pre-law enforcement days. Getting your shot blocked by me meant you misjudged the situation and the opponent. However, getting “Spaulding” tattooed on your forhead was usually a quick cure for that.

As it is, those days are past. I’d need more than a can of Rustoleum to clean up my game. Not out of shape, but spent far more time training in defensive tactics and various firearm usage than I have on any basketball court in the last 9 years. Still LOVE the game, but my exercise comes from the treadmill, neighborhood streets (weather permitting) and weight machines (I love the one I have at home). Haven’t made much time for the 90 feet of hardwood. I suppose you have though, huh?

By ray

September 21, 2007 4:38 AM | Link to this

Flash,

there would have been little chance of me getting your shot. A better strategy would have been to deny you the ball or deny you the position you wanted, since I had no problem running all over the court. And the closer to the basket you were, the easier it would be for me. Pure strength and lateral movement ability made me very difficult to get position against. Jump shots are so tough to block, but they can certainly be defended, contested, and harassed. Most of the blocks I got were within 8 to 10 feet of the basket. It’s harder to set yourself for a good jumper at that range, because you are in heavy traffic most of the time, which allowed a chance at a clean block by a guy like me who could go straight up. Often times it was against some taller player who foolishly thought there’s no way a guy 6’ or less is going to be able to get up after the shot. Of course, back then, I weighed 210, and looked like I was maybe 175. Always been that way. I don’t even look my weight now. Anyhow, a player of your caliber, who’s always looking for the edge, was both a joy and pain to play against. A pain because of your intelligence, a joy because of the physical/psychological battle of angles, instincts, and outright competitiveness. People who assumed that they had a clear advantage due to some physical aspect or other were always easier.

Ah well, it didn’t last forever. As the chest and arms began to get ever thicker and more muscled (and dangit, I didn’t get any taller), the football coach began to pay me a lot more attention than the basketball coach. It was for the better. It was loads of fun running like hell and doing things that would constitute a seriously flagrant foul in basketball. Besides, you get tired of all those 6’5 220lb guys whining about the “short” guy down low who won’t let you dunk, and is getting “too physical” in the post. Wieners…

By HB Ando

September 20, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Wow, Joe, you weren’t kidding about Mike needing to come strong.

“General Wallace and JRichardson basically play the same style of ball”

Hmm, a quick look at the stats shows that Wallace has made 71 3’s, in 335 career games, while J Rich has hit 700 in 438 games. Yeah, like lookin’ in a freakin’ mirror.

Is Mike Tyger’s twin? Can the universe support simultaneous FedEx’s?

Joe, was that condescending or pompous? I want to be clear on which character flaws I’m looking to correct……….

By HB Ando

September 20, 2007 11:21 PM | Link to this

Joe, oddly enough, pomposity and condescension are not merely personality traits, they are actually part of my given name. To be specific, my legal name is HB Condescendingly Pompous Ando.

Strange, huh?

I want to return to regular status. I really do. In the same way, I’m sure, that Britney doesn’t want to be a white trash, mother-from-hell train wreck. But Britney and I are tied by the shared uncertainty of our immediate futures.

I just wish there was a new angle, a new take, on this team. But I fear a Hawks’ outcome more redundant than my Billy-got-fleeced-by-the-Suns-for-a-player-he-could-have-had-for-free argument (and you KNOW how many times I pummeled that horse since the very beginning of time; i.e. the first SS blog ever).

Your lukewarm welcome is the best I could have hoped for. Getting a response from you is certainly better than, say, a herpes outbreak.

I agree with you completely on your Batista assessment, and find Reese’s thoughts reasonable. But what I saw, against the USA, was a far more skilled big man than what we’ve been led to believe, over the course of the last few years. And I can think of many times when we needed a little nastiness in the post, and had to settle for other teams’ lay up drills.

Anyway, I’m glad it’s almost hoops season.

I like basketball.

By Mike

September 20, 2007 11:09 PM | Link to this

Doc and Joe thanks for the invite bros. Think I’ll take a drink of kool-aid, man that’s good stuff.

Doc you made valid point about the Bobcats. Me personally I think the JRichardson trade will come back to haunt MJ like the Rip Hamilton trade did when he was at the Wizard. General Wallace and JRichardson basically play the same style of ball, except Wallace is a more explosive all around player. But I think Brandon Wright would have been the perfect complement to Okurfor. Two athletic Bigs would have made the Bobcats more imposing. But like Ainge, MJ wants to win right now. All trades look good on paper, we’ll see how it all plays out on the hardwood.

While some team made major improvement in the East, some teams marginally improved, so there still a chance for a young upstart like the Hawks to make a serious run at one of those playoff spot. At the very lease it should be refreshing to hear these young guys putting the onus on themselves to take that next step to the playoff this year. Destiny is afforded to those that have courage to reach for it.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By reese

September 20, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

The Batista scoring in the Fiba tournament probably has a lot to do with the comfort of playing with team members he enjoys, coaches he enjoys, offensive schemes that were designed to make him the focal point, referees who do not adhere to the superstar treatment and gave him calls when he was fouled and refs who let the players play agressive and did not call every little ticky tack foul he made.

I only saw him play once and that was against team USA. He was an offensive factor but not a defensive factor which is the main focal point of coach woodson. Woodson has repeatedly stated that if you don’t play defense, then you will not play for him.

Team USA played position defense, tried for steals and put there hands up on defense. Batista drove baseline and either made layups, dunks or was fouled. He was the star of their team and became frustrated when his teammates did not make rotations on defense or positioned themselves to receive the ball on offense.

Could he help Boston, who knows. But, it seems that when other ex hawks players are surrounded my All Start players, they are able to do what that all star player needs them to do. What would Boston need for Batista to do. They need him to play center so that Garnett can play power forward. They need for him to bang against the players that garnett does not want to bang against. Garnett will get the rebounds, Garnett will block the shots, Garnett will do the scoring and Garnett will play the help defensive. Plus, Garnett is 7’0 tall.

Why didn’t Batista do well with the hawks. The hawks needed batista to get the rebounds, block the shots, score and play help defensive. Batista displayed that he could bang.

By ILL-logical

September 20, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

..including Joe Johnson’s patience.

Imagine if you will the discussion JJ’s agent is having re JJ’s future on a terminal franchise while in his peak earning years.

Yeah, think about it. This boy has proven he can ball with the best and could be the missing ingredient for a championship bound team. Paatience may be a virtue but for how long in NBA years?

By Fred Everett

September 20, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this

Sekou…you have already made up your mind as to why the Hawks “cannot” surprise the NBA this year ? By extension…that means the Hawks will fall short of the 8th and final Playoff spot. Care to wager ? My wife and I will take you and your wife to dinner at Bones if the Hawks fail to make the Playoffs…if you and your wife will agree to take me and my wife to Bones if the Hawks earn a spot in the Playoffs. Deal ?

By Astro Joe

September 20, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

Welcome back Ando. Now that we’re 2 weeks from the start of camp, I hope that you will stick around for a while. But try not to be too pompous and condescending. Mike, you’re not sitting at the kiddie table, come strong and don’t hold back.

Ando, back to your Batista question. I personally don’t see how a GM is responsible for player development. I often hear the term “coach them up”. Never heard “GM them up”. If this team had a need for a banger who could defend the paint, clean the glass and show all around hustle and had a player on their roster who was able to demonstrate same skills (which do not require a particular scheme or philosophy to optimize) on another team, then I can’t blame anyone but the coaching staff for that (including former big man coach Greg Ballard).

One could argue that Batista had extra motivation as he was a free agent and the international competition gave him a lot of playing time to serve as an audition. I never underestimate the motivation associated with being unemployed. (Anyone remember how well Dan Dickau played the season that his contract was about to expire, haven’t seen dude on the court since. Diaw did much the same in his first season in Phoenix, which led to a huge payhceck and unlimited ecclairs). So I think there could be 2 camps, Batista played with a sense of urgency to stay in NBA (as opposed to head to Europe) or Woody wasted the skill set of a player. As I mentioned a few days ago, I recall how well Batista played against Shaq late last season. And I recall that Woody buried him on the bench right after that strong performance, as if it were all a dream.

Under-utilization of a resource is a boneheaded move, so Batista must have just been hyped up to stay in the league, right Blog Z?

By RA

September 20, 2007 8:47 AM | Link to this

I know I’m getting in on this conversation a little late, but I could believe in this season. I could have believed in last season if 80% of the team hadn’t spent last December in a suit or on a gurney. They were a better team last year than anyone cares to believe, and for the record, I think they’ve got as much or more young talent than any team in the east… Believe it or not…

By doc

September 20, 2007 7:06 AM | Link to this

just a thought for all the kool aide drinkers. this hawks team fell behnd a number of teams in the east this off season. sadly, one of those was the bobcats that have eaten our lunch for the last two years and essentially are on the same growth curve as we are there inception to out dismantling.does anyone think that richardson as a free agent isnt worth more than an acie law? that is the equivalent pick up as to a need for a guy that can score. reality hurts guys. the franchise has to open the pocket book next. suns get a really good draft pick as the only teams that we might be competitive with and who did equally as poor in the off season as the hawks (sorry, rookies dont count except with the crack pipe that ando gave up) are the heat, sixers, pacers and boston if their new comers dont blend. surprisingly, that may be the botttom of the pit this year in the east.

By kwooden1

September 20, 2007 6:00 AM | Link to this

I agree with J. Shuttlesworth, There just aren’t enough playoff spots, especially since the Celtics are going to take one. (it has to happen for the League to get better playoff TV ratings) I think the Hawks are building a team the right way and if they continue this process in two or three years they should be ready to make a serious playoff run. I think this year we should look for improvement in Josh’s offensive game and a break-out year for Marvin. If we get those two things and good rookie play from Law and Horford, we should be really excited. Those are the steps to having a good four/five man core. We also really need to see some better in game coaching from Woodson. His slow style helps them at the defense end, but he doesn’t appear to have any idea what he is doing on the offensive end, especially during the fourth quarter.

By doc

September 19, 2007 10:45 PM | Link to this

well ando in all the shock treatments i see you have forgotten the art of offending every last one of us in one fell swoop of the computer keyboard. i am sure it will all come back to you oh too soon. :-))

welcome back my friend to the table, seat was not taken. we are just fans that love the hawks and if they let us down b’ballin talk comes easy as the next resort. now just go over there and pick up your glass of kool aide that astro poured for you.

mike, dont go anywhere you at the head seat, next to the kool aide that you mix up daily.

By Mike

September 19, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I’ll step back and let the Big Dogs eat. Man these blogs continue to amp up, I see all the Heavy Hitters back on the prowl, must be gettin close to October Hum. There’s so much electricity coming from these blogs, I can fill it, Ochaaaaaa!!!!!!

Ya it’s going to be exciting. One way or the other there’s going to be a lot of crow to spread around. I’m ready to sit back and enjoy the ride. I know my boy Salim is going to do his thing like Cisco Wane. GO SALIM AND GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By HB Ando

September 19, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Flash, my old friend, your Belkin comments always reek of projection. As the man who knows the MAN, you must know I am not him. And you remain the most likely candidate for the “Belkin as Joe Fan, from, coincidentally, the DC area”.

But, as I’ve always said, if you are Belkin, or just a personal friend, please make the intro should your guy end up with the Hawks. I will work for cheap to put my money where my mouth lives, with regards to how this franchise should be run.

Anyhoo, how ya’ been, Flashy? I want an invite to the Ray vs. Flash, one-on-one, for the Hawks’ blog championship of the world. Maybe we can get Doc to step in and make it a four-man tourney.

Having met Clyde, at the draft party, he looks like he might still have a little game, younger than the rest of us. Though his forte is clearly marketing (which the Hawks could dearly use, once they follow his “Fire Billy and Woody” mantra).

Doc, I know you have my e-mail. So if I miss the official invite for Sam’s Yahoo league, please forward it to me, as I want another shot.

Joe, I lack only a few articulate, unkind words, to know that I’m back in Kansas. If you could be so kind……………

By The Flash

September 19, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this

He that appears from the dust must be he, that is Belkin. How you be, Andoman, longtime no see.

You definitely have been polishing your style; smoother while no less to the point.

Only thing surprising is that you didn’t mention your boy NeNe in response to Sekou’s question, especially after his strong showing this summer. Or do you think that Horford is a wash?

Ray, on second thought, had you been into gettin my shot you’d have been toast, unless you could have stopped me from catchin it where I liked (numerous spots), which was not easy to do. “Glory days, in a wink of a young … .”

By HB Ando

September 19, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

Well, SS, I am up to around 220, which is not particularly heavy compared to Mr. Ray. But I am starting to feel the gradually lowering temperatures, and thinking about a game called hoops.

I’m sure you guys hammered this issue to death, during my summer vacation, but if someone wants to repeat some of the more lucid conclusions, I’d be interested to hear what the summary judgment was, of E. Batista’s fine performance against the US of A, as well as the following tidbit:

“The Celtics are one of four teams courting the services of Atlanta Hawks free agent Esteban Batista, according to his agent Marc Cornstein. The Bobcats, Suns and Pacers are targeting a player who made a mark for himself playing for Uruguay at the FIBA Tournament in Las Vegas. Boston Globe

Cornstein said he expects the 6-10, 268 pound forward/center to make his decision in the near future. “I think he will be a good pick for them (Celtics),” Cornstien He’s a tough banger who runs the floor. I think he will be a great fit. But all of the teams would be good.” Boston Globe”

He sure looked like more than an enforcer to me, when he lined up against Howard and Amare.

But, again, I know I gave up my right to query, based on not showing, or participating, in the days after his performance.

Help me catch up here, fellas. I feel like a newbie, all over again.

BTW, if Batista was a diamond in the rough, which we apparently unearthed, and then re-buried, is that on Woody or Billy?

By Sekou K. Smith

September 19, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

Joe and Ando in the same day. I’m might try this positive thing more often to bring the heavy hitters out.

By mykhalc

September 19, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

JOE, i’m so with ALL of what you’ve said that i’m tempted to copy and paste it for my OWN post!!!LOL

i’m not gonna even comment on WOODSON (if i can help it)!! but SALIM…please!!SALIM has done relatively NOTHIN’ as a pro!! SEKOU, you and others seem to be relyin’ and relivin’ what he did on the college level!!! sure some of his downfall/lack of production IS due to WOODSON (there i go…couldn’t avoid it). but do you cats think WOODSON is even capable of alterin’ his game plan as a coach??? and if he can’t then SALIM will continue to show what he’s shown…VIRTUALLY NADA!!!! sure he’s got a sweet shot but that’s not enough in this league!! with the way this team is coached SALIM/his skillset has failed to fit in. thus i have FAILED to see the reason for excitement that some have shown in him!!! NOW i DO appreciate SALIM’s passion for the game and winnin’!! but that’s ALL i’ve seen from him as a pro…SO FAR…UNDER WOODSON!!!!!

By Astro Joe

September 19, 2007 3:09 PM | Link to this

“Bonehead move of the century”? So I’ve decided not to challenge that several other coaching decisions rendered by the man who is averaging 23 victories over his coaching career have already achieved that noteworthy title. I’ll approach you this way, what other coach is a candidate to hold a “boneheaded” title? Even Zeke had the Knicks playing decent ball during the first 60 games of last season. Doc Rivers? He carried out his bosses game plan to tank the season in a HOF fashion. Avery Johnson? Ok, changing the starting line-up of the number 1 seed to adjust for the number 8 seed is certainly worthy of consideration. But his COY award the previous season(and Dirk’s disappearance) gets the Lil General off the hook. Flip’s decision to let LeBron run wild? Close, very close. But Mr. Big Shot had something to do with that debacle also (and Rasheed’s child-like tantrums).

Nope, if anyone has shown the propensity to rise up and produce a highlight factory full of boneheaded coaching decisions, it is our very own Michael (Carter G. History of Incompetence) Woodson.

By Sekou K. Smith

September 19, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Joe,

I’m not sure how it all breaks down just yet (training camp will be telling), but if the Hawks are going to rip and run and shoot the long ball on the regular, Salim has to be a part of it. Having him sit on a team that plays that way would be the bonehead move of the century.

By HB Ando

September 19, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, Ray, I think I have a theory on your surprising proclivity for blocking the shots of taller players. If I happened to be defended by a 6-foot, 300 pound man, who was carrying a gun, nightstick and pepper spray, when seen entering the locker room, I’d probably let him block one of my shots too, just to stay on his good side.

But I’d still have to drop 30 on you……..

By HB Ando

September 19, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Man, if I could remember who any of you guys were, I’d miss you all. But between blackouts, narcolepsy and multiple shock treatments, I’m only going on faith and my computers’ memory that my name is HB Ando.

It’s weird to see Sekou ask the question, “Why not these Hawks, and why not now?”.

Because the answer requires me, and all of the rest of you, to say the same things again and again.

Bad owners, bad GM, bad coach, and a roster comprised of 7 forwards, 5 point guards and Joe Johnson are “why not now”. At the end of last summer, I said I couldn’t identify five teams in the NBA that projected to be worse than the Atlanta Hawks. One year later, I’m at the same conclusion.

If there are no changes to the make up of this roster, and no changes to the head coaching position, then this team simply will not make the playoffs. Last year I asked where Shelden would fit in, rotation-wise, when it was obvious that he could not play center and that the team had to be committed to playing Josh and Marvin for most of the forward minutes (with Childress also taking minutes at the three). It played out pretty much as logic dictated, with both Shelden and the team struggling to find a place for his fairly narrow range of on-court strengths.

Fast forward one year, and throw in Al Horford. Add nonsensical talk about Shelden playing some center this year (at 6-freakin’7), and I marvel at anyone’s logic that this team looks poised for a playoff run. So what if Shelden has improved. I still don’t see him taking too many minutes from Al Horford.

Acie Law looks talented. But whatever he has over AJ, Speedy and Lue, in that regard, is off-set by the reality that he’s an NBA rookie PG, which typically means he’ll look confused frequently and make a lot of mental mistakes.

Last summer, I spoke about the belief that, at some point down the road, either Marvin or Josh Smith would probably have to go, if we were ever to get the necessary roster balance to be a good TEAM. Though they bring very different talents to the court, they’re both most comfortable playing the 3. Horford is a classic 4 and will be most successful if he’s allowed to play that position (versus forcing him to play as an undersized center). Both Marvin and Josh’s ultimate trade value requires that they be moved predicated on the value of their higher dollar, extended contract. Both are going to continue to develop into tremendous players in the league. But for the Hawks to become a legitimate playoff team, one of them will have to go, sooner or later, in exchange for a legitimate center option.

Billy Knight, once again, has neglected to address the lack of a true center, to anchor the paint, and this years’ outcome will reflect that inexplicable, and ongoing, failure.

I’ll take the under on 34 wins, and continue to look forward to Knight and Woodson’s inevitable removal (the sooner the better).

The most sick thing about this team sucking again is that Phoenix couldn’t be more confident that they’re going to get a top-5 pick in next years’ draft. Imagine OJ Mayo playing the two, next to Nash, then taking the reins when Nash finally winds down in about 3 years.

SS, the reason we can’t follow the Magic’s path to respectability is pretty simple: Dwight Howard.

Last summer there were far more voices calling for the Hawks to break out. This summer, with reality and the justifiable, and ever lengthening, cynicism both setting in, those voices are fewer, farther between, and largely incoherent in their supporting logic.

The sad truth is that more locals, than ever before, have ceased to even think about the Hawks. Years of mismanagement and poor ownership have finally rendered them inconsequential. It’s less about whether you’re happy or sad about the state of the team. They just no longer register.

A slight improvement in their performance won’t be enough to win the general public back. It will take some earth shattering change, along with far more on-court success than a failed run at the eighth seed, to make the people of Atlanta believe in Hawks basketball again. With the court drama seemingly never-ending, and with no reason to believe that Billy Knight or Mike Woodson will be relieved of their duties before next summer, at the earliest, the mere drafting of Al Horford and Acie Law will neither re-invigorate the potential ticket buying pool, nor make this team a note worthy factor in the upcoming NBA season.

Cheers!

By Astro Joe

September 19, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Sekou, only way I see Salim making the 10 man rotation is if Lue is sent packing (or misses a bunch of games with an injury). I have to assume that Speedy, JJ, Lue and Law are the 4 backcourt players with Horford, Zaza, Smith, Marvin, Chill and Shelden manning the front court. I was thinking that Wright and Salim were the bench dwellers with Solomon and AJ running up their dry cleaning bills as inactive players. How do you see it playing out?

By Sekou K. Smith

September 19, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

GOOD NEWS FOR A GOOD MAN -

The Bucks signed my man Roy Ivey to a one-year contract on Tuesday.

I’m glad to see a stand up guy get another shot at playing in the NBA. The Hawks drafting Acie Law made it impossible for Roy to return here. But he’ll fit well in Milwaukee.

By The Flash

September 19, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

Ray I’d say you’d probably have eaten me alive except for that little thing of yours about likin to block the shots of taller guys. That would have given me a chance.

On the other hand, playin on the same side as you, now that almost makes an old bald fat guy want to get in shape and be willing to risk these ridiculously bad knees one more time. “Sancho, my armor!!” Don Q.

I think your cautious optimism, with the reservations that you mentioned, is spot on. Great minds think alike, I guess. “Hurumph, can I get a Hurumph.” Mel Brooks in Blazing Saddles.

By Sekou K. Smith

September 19, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

SQUAWKER,

I don’t think it’s a question of “if” Salim gets consistent minutes. He has to get consistent minutes as a relief scorer or they’ll surely be in a bad place. The talent and depth on this team dictates that there be a 10-man playing rotation, if they are to play at the tempo that’s being discussed (stay tuned for this Sunday’s Q&A for more details on that). Say what you want about Salim, but for a team that’s struggled to score consistently from the perimeter when Joe Johnson isn’t on the floor or defenses are scheming to limit him, Salim would seem to be the ideal weapon (to me).

By ray

September 19, 2007 7:53 AM | Link to this

Ha! The nerve…I can’t believe Sam Bowie actually said that he was probably the most devastated person in North American when he heard that Greg Oden was going to be sidelined for the season. Give me a break, Sam. Not only have you admitted yourself that you’ve never met the guy, but I think you’ll fall quite a distance behind family, friends, teammates, ownership, coaches, gm…need I continue?

Now if the guy had said that he empathized more with him than most anybody else, I’d understand that. The main reason anybody even knows who Sam Bowie is would be that he infamously was chosen ahead of Michael Jordan and just didn’t pan out the way people envisioned.

By ray

September 19, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

You can have my share of the koolaid. I’ll lift a toast when I see real progress. Until then, I’m just another long-suffering but devoted fan.

By reese

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

Yes, nothing last forever, however NBA TV’s Greatest Games keep reminding me of how basketball should be played. The 84/85 Portland team was fun to watch. Paxson, kiki vandeweghe, Clyde drexler, darnell valentine, mycheal thompson and Sam Bowie. Some would say that I digress.

However, I say that the Portland team as well as the winning hawks teams of Dominique and Steve smith had something that this hawks team still lacks. Dominique had Tree Rollins, Steve Smith had Dikembe Mutombo and Portland had Sam Bowie and Mychael Thompson patrolling the paint.

Jack Ramsey, Mike Fratello and Lenny Wilkins all preached defense. Yet, their GMs gave them the proper tools to accomplish the job. The Portland team I speak of had 7 players average double figures and 2 players average more than 1 block a game. Not 1 player average double figure rebounds.

Hopefully, Salim is correct and Woodson will allow this team to run and shoot. Hopefully, the GM will find that 7ft player who will patrol the paint. Hopefully, Alton Lister will make Solomon Jones a 2 block a game player and 10pt a game scorer. If JJ is averaging 40 minutes a game then there is a problem.

By mavid

September 18, 2007 8:22 PM | Link to this

I agree with most of what’s been said.

I would love to see Woody have a Sam Mitchell-type year, I just don’t see it happening.

And, while Im not expecting playoffs, I do expect us to be way more competitive on a nightly basis.

Horford is gonna have to play big for us to have any real chance at success. Otherwise, we have the same dudes down low (looking at you Zaza and Shelly), and we know what they bring. Which isn’t necessarily bad, but it won’t be enough.

By MannyT

September 18, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

I believe enough to give the Hawks a chance. Lots of contracts coming to an end. Lots of young players that are getting a year older.

Some changes in the coaching staff and a few glimpses of above average play in the past 2 years mean that we can hope.

Reference NFL teams like Detroit, Washington and Houston this year. A good start can start a lot of positive mental momentum.

If not, there’s always indoor Lacrosse ;-)

By jack

September 18, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

I am SICK of this so called coachs style. We have youth, speed, size, shooters, especially with the two GREAT draft picks. Play up-tempo, sub to stay fresh. Run the other teams tongues out. Win or lose, it will be super entertaining and we will learn how to play and win that way. This half court crap is boring to our youth and fans and we are loseing using that style. Get a new coach and quit griping about our inexperience and using the excuse of were building a team and so and so is tired. These players are pros and I bet they would like to be turned loose. Look at what Team USA did to all those “set the offense” dragarounds LeBron and company just disposed of. Heck, watch LeBron and Kobe light it up night after night. Go strong and fast and don`t let up!!!

By ToeKnee

September 18, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

I have already decided that I will officially make up my mind about Woodson after I get a good idea of what his game plan is for this season. I think he has done a great job of bringing players along, but his substitutions, or severe lack thereof, and his style of play, which really still has yet to be determined, just don’t seem like they put us in the best position to win at all times, and thats what a coach is supposed to do, after that the onus is on the players to perform. Put the team in the best possible situation to win, whether thats resting certain guys, or just sending in some energy with someone new, and Woody really needs to make that impact this year. As I said before, and we’ve seen in these interviews, as far as our CORE is concerned, age can no longer be an excuse.

For me, it just comes down to this: Talent-wise, we are ready to make the playoffs. I just hope Woody can get us there. Like him or not man, he’s been there with us through these last two seasons, and as someone who literally watches EVERY game, I just feel like all of us are in this mess together, and i hope all of us who have truly suffered(yea yea i know) with the hawks all these years, will be able to collectively enjoy our success in the years to come. I mean, really, it is a GREAT time to be a Hawks fan. And the success will be so much sweeter for us diehards than for any fairweather fan.

So good luck Woody, I really hope you can be there with us after you’ve had to do all the grunt work of turning a high school team into a professional one.

By mike

September 18, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Despite my strong disdain for Levenson recent comments in the Spirit owners’ fight far from over post. Yes I believe it can happen this year. I also agreed with everyone else. The biggest impediment besides injury, will be coaching. Let’s face it. You can have all the talent you want, but without the right coach the team will still under achieve. Woodson may be a good coach, but is he the right coach for this team? I’m going to support the team no matter what. But the guys make a legitimate point.

Having said that I remain as confident as ever in this young team, this is the Hawks year. There time has come.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By mike

September 18, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

Despite my strong disdain for Levenson recent comments in the Spirit owners’ fight far from over post. Yes I believe it can happen this year. I also agreed with everyone else. The biggest impediment besides injury, will be coaching. Let’s face it. You can have all the talent you want, but without the right coach the team will still under achieve. Woodson may be a good coach, but is he the right coach for this team? I’m going to support the team no matter what. But the guys make a legitimate point.

Having said that I remain as confident as ever in this young team, this is the Hawks year. There time has come.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Tyger

September 18, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

The Hawks improved their winning percentage over 100% since Mike Woodson was hired. 13 wins, 26 wins, 32 wins for the last three seasons.

Surely, there were more wins to be had, but the philosophy, since the rebuild, has been to develop the core around the draft picks. That meant sacrificing the immediate for the future.

BK stated on Day 1 that the goal was to build for a championship. Our roster is impressive, no one has a better core poised for greatness.

But it is Woody that has to manage and mold these players into champions and it doesnt happen over night, not with the hand he’s been dealt.

And furthermore, I dont think anyone in the NBA wouldve done much better.

First of all, most winning coaches wouldnt have even taken the job. Second, the so-called good ones run at the first hint of adversity; see Larry Brown, Don Nelson, Pat Riley.

Now, have I always agreed with Woody’s approach. HELL NO! But does that mean he’s a bad coach? Of course not. The fact of the matter is Woody has won BIG at every level of the sport. He is a winner!

There’s too much blame to go around to point fingers at one Coach for a team that hasnt had a winning season in 10 years, its systemic, its ATL culture - and its spread from the Falcoons to the Hawks to the Braves.

Nevertheless, Woody must show this season. Must he make the playoffs? It depends on how it pans out, the paradigm has changed, but we have to be in the hunt.

He has more than enough assets to be competitive for the 6-8 spots, no matter who else is in the East. But a defensive 7fter and a 6’6 shooter would vastly improve our chances.

By bill

September 18, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Did Sekou even add one nugget we ddidn’t already know?

By Volman

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

I figured I’d start posting on here again. Hopefully I can bring some of my own personal views on things to stir the pot a little.

Yes, I think that this Hawks team can be good, but only if they get monster production from the big three (Joe, Josh Smith, Marvin).

By G Money

September 18, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

I was one of those who was giddy with excitement at the start of last season. I thought sure that we were headed for respectability. Then all of our collective hopes were dashed due to injuries and ineptitude.
I believe that this year is going to be better for 3 reasons: Improved Coaching”“…You just gotta believe that Woody is going to toss his playbook and Larry Drew is going to add some western sizzle to the offense. With young, quick, more mistake prone, physically weaker and less savvy upstarts, a faster pace on offense just makes sense. Woody will have to release that old playbook that he brought with him to the interview with BK and come up with something that fits the make up of the team. That’s just how the really great ones in this new millenium are going to win. Besides, rule changes favor this style of play. If he wants to stress hard-nosed defense, I’m all for that. But the offense must be more fluid, with more motion and faster pace than in the past. If this doesn’t happen, nothing else matters. Secondly, **Maturation of Vets…Given all that you/Sekou have supplied us with in terms of research this summer, it sounds as if JJ and Josh are going to be the cornerstones of this team with much improved play. It also sounds like Marvin is going to add some lift both literally and figuratively. Chills will continue to be steady and add the punch that we need where we need and when we need it. Hopefully ZaZa and Salim will be even more improved in supporting roles. The reality is that high draft picks usually turn into good NBA players - maybe not superstars but really good NBA players. An up tempo offense will allow all the players to capitalize on much of what they worked on this summer. Lastly, addition of rookies and improvement of Shelden …Most people don’t really remember that Acie was rated the #1 point guard in the country until the NCAA tournament. He wants to prove that he was worthy of that moniker. He is a talent that we have not EVER had. It is going to really help the vets. Horford will be able to add defensive muscle and rebounding right away. He may foul out of a lot of games but that’s how he learns and that’s why it is important that Shelden be an improved player this fall. If he has really taken his game to another level and figured this NBA thing out, then the middle will be better filled as it is going to have to be a collective effort inside the paint.
With all of this said, I’m optimistic but if we win 35 games it will be impressive given the other squads and how the east has improved.

By cp

September 18, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Just like others have said, I have no confidence in Woodson. This guy baffles me more than any other coach I have ever seen. I remember a few year ago when he finally let Donta Smith get some minutes and he played well Coach Woodson said he needed Donta to perform like that more often or something to that degree. Well the next few games Donta couldnt find the court to save his life. I just dont think Woodson gets it sometimes or even has a real plan out there. The way most fans see it we might as well let the players loose and let them run . As Astro Joe pointed out, we play well against west coast teams when we play uptempo but he slows it down against a east coast team. I never understood that. A light has to go off in Woodson’s head and it has to come on this year.

By ray

September 18, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

I have to side with Astro Joe and Mykhalc, and say that I refuse to drink the koolaid the way it’s been mixed. Don’t get me wrong, I am a fan and really like this team. I’m quite anxious to see how our rookies do, as well. However, I too am unhappy about the head coach situation. And we’re already talking in circles about that. Be that as it may, it’s possible that Woodson steps up his game. Probable? Maybe not. Possible? Maybe so. We’ll see, but my confidence is shaky at best on that front.

Flash, I get what you’re saying. I excelled at defense largely in part to some of the same instincts. I have slightly longer arms than my height would suggest, and my lateral quickness has always been good. That and an ability to change directions came from, and was improved by playing soccer for a few years. I loved to surprise people by blocking shots on taller players and stealing the ball from faster players. There’s no substitution for pure instinct and deceptive athletic ability. I could shoot pretty much from any distance I chose, but was more consistent from about 18 feet than anywhere else. Like I said, a player, but no one special. Just better than I’ve ever been given credit for at first glance. Now football and soccer were a different matter. In soccer, it was a surprise for every opponent. In football, no surprise at all. They knew it was going to hurt, it was just a matter of how much.

By doc

September 18, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

there have been few programs that turned around on a dime and had youth at he same time. san antonio did it with a remarkable player that will go down as being one of the game’s best ever when he retires, tim duncan. another program did it with the emergence of a guy who became the mvp and a star in his own right steve nash and the suns.

i just dont see those variables on the table. i can wish all i want that speedy can be the guy but to play his game and the game that the hawks seem to revel in will take a 180 degree turn around in beliefs and philosophy by the coaching staff. maybe it will be all about them waiting for the right pieces to fall into place before they unleash their own innovative techniques on the rest of the nba.

unfortunately i dont see horford as the next coming of tim duncan nor a healthy speedy as the next coming of steve nash. i certainly dont see the coaching staff going away from their bread and butter which is to play defense by holding the scores down by not shooting the ball. we are best on offense but continue to hamper it by emphasizing what we do poorly imagining the illusion that to keep the score down means we have played defense. it doesnt matter if you lose by 5 when you hold your opponent below the century mark. i know there is a fine line between losing all d to play an up tempo game but the emphasis has to be on athleticim when playing defense in a quicker game measured by takeaways, blocked shots and an emphasis on stops per possession. if the philosophy doesnt change or horford doesnt become one of the very few ever to make the transition to the nba by being a 20/10 guy from the start it doesnt end this year.

if we had gotten iavaroni or even adleman, i would be at the least a bit optimistic, since there were no changes it is fewer expectations than the lowly ones i had last year. still like the team and most of the players individually, just love basketball so i will stick around no matter the outcome.

By SQUAWKER

September 18, 2007 1:40 AM | Link to this

oh, i forgot to mention woody will be an obstacle to overcome to achieve any sort of success.

By SQUAWKER

September 18, 2007 1:32 AM | Link to this

SEKOU, THIS IS A BIT OFF TOPIC, BUT I AM CURIOUS AS TO YOUR OPINION OF WHETHER OR NOT SALIM WILL ACTUALLY SEE CONSISTENT PLAYING TIME. I, FOR ONE, WANT TO SEE IT HAPPEN. WILL WOODY QUIT BEING STUBBORN THIS SEASON. I ENJOYED THE COLUMN (THIS AND THE SALIM FEATURE/INTERVIEW) AND WAS CURIOUS TO SEE IF YOU HAD FURTHER THOUGHTS.

I REALLY DO THINK THIS TEAM CAN MAKE SOME STRIDES. WE NEED LAW OR CLAXTON TO STEP UP AND PLAY A GOOD POINT FOR US AND WE NEED HORFORD TO WIN ROOKIE OF THE YEAR, WHICH I REALLY THINK IS NOT TOO-FARFETCHED.

GET ‘EM HAWKS. KEEP BLOGGIN’ SEKOU.

By Chris D'

September 18, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

This isn’t the year. We added two rookies that are supposed to contribute at the two hardest positions to play in the NBA. When the trade deadline comes around if teams are talking about wishing they could get our young talent I think 08/09 will be a good year. Maybe one of our rookies will be a first team all rookie this year?

By jlewis

September 17, 2007 7:47 PM | Link to this

Sekou:

If you ask everyone around the league, the Hawks need to play faster, therefore, they need a new coach!!!!!!!!!!

By Clyde

September 17, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

ROLL TIDE

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By mykhalc

September 17, 2007 6:27 PM | Link to this

JOE, btw….damn good elaboratin’ in your post bro!! sums it up perfectly!!!

By J. Shuttlesworth

September 17, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

I think the Hawks will be a decent team, but I don’t think there are enough playoff spots to go around.

Look around the East. Every team got better. If you think the Hawks will make it, come up with the 7 teams they’ll beat out for the final playoff spot.

By MannyT

September 17, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

It can happen.

If the team takes a nobody believes in us, but us edge into the season…it could work.

Remember, this team found a way to beat San Antonio 2 seasons ago when they could not beat anyone. They fought well at the start of last season with a barely healthy Speedy and a hurt Marvin.

For the 3rd season, I’ll be holding down the $199s, just waiting for a reason to bump them into better seats.

The one thing we skip over when we talk about the offseason changes made in the east…those guys are aging fast.

Remember when the last good Hawks team was broken up. They looked old against the Knicks in the playoffs. Several of the good teams are getting old.

The young birds can do this.

By mykhalc

September 17, 2007 5:57 PM | Link to this

JOE, btw….damn good elaboratin’ in your post bro!! sums it up perfectly!!!

By mykhalc

September 17, 2007 5:53 PM | Link to this

JOE, you are more than welcome my friend!!!LOL

you and i, plus others, can see the talent level improvin’ on this team. the coachin’ staff, and the HC in particular, HAS FAILED MISERABLY to keep pace!!! time for a change…PERIOD!!!!

By Edo River

September 17, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

Mr. Smith, From what you have said before now about this year’s bonding of players intentions, work out habits, etc. this could be a year the team surprises alot of folks IF they keep focused. A crack in that structure and everything falls apart, before Christmas. Keep focused and over the grind of a 62 game season, something good could happen. I don’t know, I have good feelings about the team’s commitment, we all did last year.

They can, its possible. Will they? Regards from the BIG Island of Honshu, Edo River

By DHD

September 17, 2007 5:14 PM | Link to this

Could the Hawks be our only playoff team this next year? Why not?

I know this….they better make it this year because 15 years of rebuilding is enough.

By smartguy

September 17, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

I think we have all seen the light with Woody, and none of us like what we see. AJ said it very well, and that is only a small part of our grievances with the head coach.

As far as getting off to a good start, that was last year. We started well on the road, then lost several close games at home (most of which we should have won). We could have started 6-2 or something like that. That was last year….

Have you seen who we start the season playing? We may have to play ten or twelve games just to win two. Do us all a favor, and just fire Woody now.

By MARK

September 17, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

THEY ARE BUILDING A TEAM THE OLD FASHION WAY U KNOW BUILDING A CORE. SAME PLAYERS DEVELOPING GROWING TOGETHER. CHEMISTRY. YES IT TIME FOR THE FRUITS OF OUR LABOR. WE ALREADY HAD OUR LUCK. TWO LOTTERY PICKS WHEN THE possibility was there for us to have none . i believe this is the hawks breakout year.

By smoove

September 17, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

mattymose. com

By who

September 17, 2007 4:14 PM | Link to this

mattymose.com

By Astro Joe

September 17, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Sekou, our west side blogger did the elaborating for me. Thank you mychalc.

Team struggles to score, Salim is buried on the bench. Team struggles with energy defensively, Solomon is buried on the bench. Team is getting blown out by 20 with 4 minutes left, JJ is still in the game after Woody is quoted as saying “I need to find ways to rest JJ”. Team plays well during west coast trip by outscoring and out-running opponents (even if they were missing key players). What does Woody do in response to winning streak with fast-paced offense, slows the team down to a crawl when they return to play Eastern foes.

And how about the subtle things? Shelden stays buried on bench against Charlotte and a guy who he has experience competing against (Sean May). Those are the times when you let your rookie gain valuable experience, against a familiar opponent. Shelden plays well against Pistons and then sits the next game. Batista shows energy and heart against Shaq and then resumes his residency at the far end of the bench, as if it never happened. Remember when Ivey started the first 5 minutes of each half and then got yanked for the remainder of the half, regardless of how well he played? Who uses the clock to determine when to substitute players? (OK, that was in ‘05-06 but it still irks me).

I saw too much ugliness the last 2 seasons from our coach to believe that this team can overcome their horrific burden for 82 games. Sure we may have a nice 4-5 game stretch every now and then. But I have zero confidence in Woody and comparable confidence that this ownership gruop will do anything other than keep the status quo. Any more elaboration needed?

By mykhalc

September 17, 2007 3:16 PM | Link to this

i’ll start to think about it when i see WOODSON is NO LONGER HC!! that would be a start….

By Sekou K. Smith

September 17, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Care to elaborate Joe?

By Willie Coyote

September 17, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this

If they commit to playing up tempo (big if) they can make some noise. I wouldn’t bet the mortgage that Woodson is the guy to create a team like that though. If we stick to this boring, grind-it-out style, this team will be taken to the cleaners because they just don’t match up with other teams in playing that style. I’ve said it before, you can play up tempo without neglecting good defense. You may give up a lay-up or two but you’ll get enough stops to win. Just my humble opinion though.

By ToeKnee

September 17, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Yes, this IS the year! The first of many. Everything about this team points to the fact that they are ready to EXPLODE on the NBA this year! Acie, and especially Al, will do fairly well as rookies, but Joe, Josh, Marvin, Chills, Salim, and hopefully Zaza too are all poised for breakthrough years, and for Joe that means finally getting his due, like an all-star nod without someone having to drop out first. I expect Joe and Josh to really just become a great tandem for years to come, the two pillars we will always build around. and with snipers like salim, marvin goin inside and out, shelden and al down low, acie and tlue runnin the point, and chills just All Over the place, you give me one good reason why this team doesn’t look as good as any other 4-8seed playoff team in the East. This is a Dangerous team people, LAhOOooODED with talent. This is our year(well, for the playoffs at least, which really would feel almost as good as a championship right about now).I can’t wait to see the HIGHLIGHT FACTORY in action.

By Astro Joe

September 17, 2007 2:48 PM | Link to this

No.