Hawks

By Neel

October 24, 2007 1:31 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I’m a huge hawks fan from atlanta but am in law school down here in new orleans. I’ll be going to the game tomorrow and was wondering whether or not woodson planned on playing most of the starters or if he planned on resting them in the final preseason game. Hope your visit to New Orleans is going well and you enjoy the big easy despite the damage that’s been done. I’ll be sitting about 10 rows behind the hawks bench and may yell at you if I see you. Can’t wait for the game since I won’t be able to see one in the regular season until I head back to ATL for thanksgiving break. Keep up the good work, love the blog work you do for the ajc which no other beat writer except Dave O’Brien can match.

By SQUAWKER

October 24, 2007 1:32 AM | Link to this

Dude, Sekou, I love you man, but come on, we come here for Hawks news. I have read/seen hundreds of people in the news talk about NOLA and Katrina. I know every writer wants to weigh in and mention this tragedy at least. But please man, know your audience.

PS. Why is Salim not getting any love? Is Woody that much of a stubborn prick? Salim’s attitude has been nothing but roses. What happened to their new and improved relationship you wrote about. I am a huge Salim proponent and want to see him get regular minutes! He is going to blow up somewhere else unless Woody’s dense a$$ wises up or gets fired in time for a new coach to work Salim in.

By Clyde

October 24, 2007 1:39 AM | Link to this

They can fix up the Superdome but can’t fix up the neighborhoods.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Edo River

October 24, 2007 2:36 AM | Link to this

This was an important comment about the site of New Orleans. It helps remind us of what happened.

By JohnGTfan

October 24, 2007 5:46 AM | Link to this

I’m tired of Katrina, so I’ll only comment on JS. I understand his agents didn’t like the offer ATL made, but it sounds like they are pretty firm on their end as well. It’s not like it’s ONLY the Hawks that are to be held accountable for a deal not getting done. If JS really wants to stay in his hometown and play, then he would inform his agents to get things done. And ATL should do the same if they really want to keep him.

By Sekou K. Smith

October 24, 2007 5:57 AM | Link to this

Stoudamire needs to see big minutes tonight. As does Solomon Jones and Mario West and several other guys that haven’t played quite as much as you’d like during the exhibition season. But I don’t expect Woodson to let up on the minutes front. Not with so much time between the end of the exhibition season and the start of the regular season.

By MannyT

October 24, 2007 6:20 AM | Link to this

Without going too political for this blog, one of the truly beautiful things about sports is that they bring people together. Recall the energy, excitement & attention that refocused on the area for a little while when the Saints returned to the Superdome last season.

Unfortunately, the rest of us usually forget quickly what we do not regularly see on TV.

As for the hoops end of this, will the last preseason game look like an NBA game or a d-league game? The last preseason NFL game mostly plays backups and guys about to get their walking papers.

By doc

October 24, 2007 6:57 AM | Link to this

yes, a lot of what we discuss is trivial in the grand scheme of things. folks are surviving where we talk of the merits of paying someone 10 to 14 mil and whether he is woth it. reality shows it to be quite different. it is a diversion form the reality so we dont ctry most of our lives. if you want come today with me to serve soup or go to grady to see what might be torn down just as quickly as charity hospital was in new orleans by the hurricane of political mismanagement and personal power struggles. you dont have to go to new orleans to see it just open your eyes and truly see and truly let yourself feel the empathy for people in pain and alone with their pain or illness. stopp the judgement of whether they deserve what they have just sit and watch quietly and see what comes up.

it doesnt disturb me to come “down” to the reality but to become merely grounded when these discussions come up on the blog. it is life and how can you completely ignore it? look inwards if these types of topics leave one uncomfortable, where does it truly come from?

By JB

October 24, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

Forget Squawker. Every once in a while, human beings NEED to be reminded of what’s important. If you don’t doubt yourself once in a while, your family and friends are probably shortchanged in the kind of person they get to live with at times. Thanks for keeping it real, Sekou.

By Smoove

October 24, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

Should we be worried that Smith will not be in contract negotiations and is this a sign that maybe the Hawks will not offer him a contract only to see him leave at year’s end?

By MannyT

October 24, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

Remember on the contract signings for the Joshes…this is a business. In their cases, the ownership holds most of the cards. If the Spirit does nothing, other teams can set their value next summer, but the Hawks can match the deal. If the deal is more than the Hawks are willing to pay, a sign & trade will likely happen to get something in return.

Remember how we got JJ…he was a restricted FA.

By ILL-logical

October 24, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Thanks Sekou for sharing your take on the unreality of the sports world in the context of life’s realities.

In re JSmooth: When they move you out of your natural position to draft someone who is more expensive than you are,there is a problem.

When they draft someone in your CURRENT position who is more expensive TWO years in a row, there is a problem.

Especially when they now balk at market rates for your future services. Net net. Can you say Andruw Jones: “the player’s asking price was too high for our budget.(funny we only had the word of the resident hack on the salary figures)

By Hawksville Resident

October 24, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this

Smooth is going to be in ATL for his entire career. Much has been said about other big name guys not getting deals like Luol Deng and Ben Gordon to name a few. Smooth is going to have a great year and make himself invaluable to the organization on and off the court and thus untradable. I think smooth knows this and is planning on exploding this year and reaping the benefits this offseason here in Atlanta “Playoff City ” GA! As for Squaker, Get A LIFE! There are real people with real issues in New Orleans..What do you expect Sekou to witness what he witnessed and not talk about it? And you complain that this blog wasn’t to your preferred level of entertainment… You can’t be serious! Go Hawks!

By ChuckP

October 24, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this

Below is an excerpt from an article I read on Hoopsworld.com about players’ off-season commitment and how it relates to their performance throughout the season. It discussed Jared Jefferies and Rashard Lewis and their commitment and work ethic in preparation of the upcoming season.

Then they discussed a couple of the Hawks:

“When the Hawks came out to the court, who was the most locked in guy during the team’s pre-game shooting period? All-Star Joe Johnson. The player who looked the most disinterested? Third-year reserve guard Salim Stoudamire. While Johnson was methodically working his way around the three-point arc, eyes on the rim, holding his follow-through, Stoudamire was seeing how high he could shoot the ball and still make it go in. Think there is any correlation between those players off-season and in-season preparation and their level of success and longevity in the NBA? You bet there is. Career success in the NBA is a process involving a commitment to a work ethic and a daily routine, in and out of season – just like any other professional in any field. That daily commitment leads to consistent improvement, high levels of performance and achievement of maximum potential.”

Maybe this is why Salim is not getting any run.

By the way, I lost an aunt to Katrina. She lived in New Orleans East and decided to ride out the storm like she had done so many times before. She had placed food, a flashlight, and other essentials in her attic. However, she did not make it into the attic and my cousins found her in her living room. Hoopsworld.com article: (http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=5758)

By Astro Joe

October 24, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this

I am a HUGE critic of Woody during game time. But I really do admire what he, BK and Arthur Triche do with the players in terms of “real world” education. There seems to be a genuine concern to make sure these guys are aware of life issues. And it is stuff that is not mandated by the NBA, but instead, appears to be part of a program developed by the Hawks for the Hawks. While it doesn’t translate into box scores or wins/losses, this is important and will likely be significant in the development of these young men as concerned citizens in their respective communities.

Props to the Hawks leadership group for nurturing the minds and hearts of their employees.

By terrell barron

October 24, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this

If New Orleans was a foreign country, Bush would have borrowed funds and rebuilt that poor city in a heartbeat. Hey Sekou, will the Hawks keep a 15 man roster? If so, who do you think will be on it? 1.Chill, 2.Smoove, 3.Sheldon, 4.Horford, 5.Acie, 6.Speedy, 7.Salim, 8.Joe, 9.Marvin, 10.Zaza, 11.AJ, 12.Solomon, 13. T.Lue, 14.Lorenzen. That only leaves 1 spot. Lorenzen and T.Lue should be dealt for a defensive big or something else that we could use. That would also make room for another roster spot. What you think? Will Mario West get that spot? What about Terrence whats his name, he played pretty good this summer?

By Sekou K. Smith

October 24, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this

terrell barron,

If the Hawks don’t keep Mario West, I expect there to be a locker room uprising. These guys love him and I suspect they’ll go to bat for him with the powers that be to keep him on the roster.

By Ryder

October 24, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Astro Joe’s right. I give Woodson a lot of grief as well, but I do have to give him and the other leaders credit for how he and others on this team are working with these young players and teaching them about life other than basketball.

Thank you Sekou, for giving us that reminder that there is life outside the game itself. We still go on but the tragedy in New Orleans (I have a cousin who miraculously survived down there) serves as a reminder that we always have to be ready.

By mykhalc

October 24, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, keep on keepin’ it real!!

DOC, JOE, well said!!! and ditto for me!!!

By A Thinking Fan

October 24, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

Here, Here to the folks of NOLA - Peace & Blessings!

Go Hawks!

By randy

October 24, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

I am so sick of hearing about Katrina! That was like 2 years ago! I come here to hear about the Hawks, not socio-economic insights. Come on Sekou, lets focus, here we are during basketball season (well, preseason) and you are already drifting. You are writing about rumors and a city we don’t even live in and not mentioning the last 2 wins by the Hawks.

How bout an update on injuries… what is the word on Zaza and Acie Law (are they gonna be ready by Nov 2 or what)? Also noticed Lue played some minutes last game. Lets hear about that. Basketball, Sekou, basketball.

By Omnihawk

October 24, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

“If New Orleans was a foreign country, Bush would have borrowed funds and rebuilt that poor city in a heartbeat.”
This is an ignorant statement on multiple levels.

By jon

October 24, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

These people giving someone grief about talking about katrina need to grow the F up. The world is bigger than the sports pages. Expand your mind a tiny bit. If you don’t want to stop being ignorant, at least don’t advertise your foolishness. Geeez

By jon

October 24, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

These people giving someone grief about talking about katrina need to grow the F up. The world is bigger than the sports pages. Expand your mind a tiny bit. If you don’t want to stop being ignorant, at least don’t advertise your foolishness. Geeez

By Dont be stupid

October 24, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

Good Lord there are some ignorant people in ALT.

“Im sick of hearing about Katrina waaah waaah.”

“I want my contract pratter waah waah.” Way to totally miss the point dipsh!ts.

Look in a mirror. What does your life amount to?

The worst thing is that you shamelessly whine like spoiled brats when someone tries to remind you of something else. Keep voting for republicans you a-holes.

Oh by the way, that contract doesn’t matter, those injuries dont matter, HAWKS STILL SUCK.

GET A F-ING LIFE LOSERS.

By Chris

October 24, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

OK, if you don’t want your home to be destroyed by a hurricane, don’t live in an area that sees a lot of them.

If you don’t want to lose your possessions without compensation, get flood insurance. If you can’t afford flood insurance, you shouldn’t live in a flood plain.

I don’t hear anyone whining about the people that lost their homes in the California “digging out from under the rubble that was their lives before” the fires, do I?

No; they are white people. No one will talk about the hardships that they face, will they?

Don’t want your home burned down, don’t live in an area with a lot of brushfires. Want to be compensated for your losses? Insure your home and possessions (which I’m guessing most of those people did).

Stop with the double standard. The Katrina survivors aren’t “digging out from under the rubble that was their lives before Katrina.” They’re taking up hotel rooms with government money and spreading the crime sprees across various states. Get real.

By Astro Joe

October 24, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Shall we venture into religion next?

So (as he attempts to change the subject), did you guys see who played in Minnesota last night? Only the old-timers will remember this name. Theo Ratliff! That’s right, old man blocked 4 shots in like 20 minutes of play. Anyone interested? His contract expires so even when he misses his 50 games, it would only be 1 year. And losing his salary may help with resigning 1 or both Joshes. If by some miracle he could stay healthy (and he is less healthy than Craig Claxton), he would provide those 20-24 minutes of defensive play we need in the pivot. Again, it is a 1 year rental. Should we try to grab him now for Shelden, Wright and AJ?

Sekou, if Mario stays, does that mean someone goes? Seems doubtful that Hawks will go with 15 guaranteed contracts.

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

October 24, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Sekou, all

Dont know if any of you saw the “behind enemy lines” segment on cnnsi, but this has got to be the most dour critique of the Hawks that I have ever seen. To go along with the headline for the blog, I’m speechless…

[http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/specials/preview/2007/enemy.lines/hawks.html]

If you have read it, this is one scout’s perspective, I wonder how pervasive this opinion is.

By randy

October 24, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

No, the point is this geniuses. You don’t go to a Sportsbar to watch Lifetime TV or CNN, you go to a sportsbar to watch sports!! When I visit this site to read Sekou Smith’s article I expect to read about the Hawks, because guess what Sekou Smith is the writer covering the Hawks. If I wanted to hear about Katrina, I would google it or visit the city myself. Yes, life is bigger than sports, but I am pretty sure the AJC didn’t hire Sekou to cover the 2 year aftermath of Katrina, what next his opinion on the Iraq War?

By Hawksville Resident

October 24, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Ok Chris…Wow. Let me get this right: People shouldn’t live in New Orleans or Miami because there might be a Hurricane. And People shouldn’t live in the Bay Area because there might be an earthquake..Hell people shouldn’t live in Oklahoma or Texas beacuse there might be tornados.. Do you know how many people live in those cities/states? Do you think they deserve those fates just because they were born or live in an Area..Real Question: Are you dumb or just stupid? You talk about double standards.. The California Brushfires and hurrican Katrina are both tragedies and both in the news. The reason that People may talk more about the hardships of hurricane Katrina is because last time I checked about 1500 more people died in Hurricane Katrina than the brushfires. It has nothng to do with black and white. Go Hawks!

By rob

October 24, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this

I was just about to comment on the SI article as well. It is beyond harsh on every single component of our team.

Sekou,

Is the opinion of the scout in SI prevelant accross the league?

By mykhalc

October 24, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

well guess what coverin’ the HAWKS in NOLA brought the team face-to-face with genius…the story we got!!!

By Chris

October 24, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this

I didn’t say people shouldn’t live in certain areas. But I stand by my statement that when you choose to live in a certain place, you accept the dangers that go along with it. If you live in an area with hurricanes and flooding, insure yourself against those calamities.

I don’t want to be mugged at night. Therefore, I live in the suburbs rather than downtown.

I don’t want to die in an earthquake; I don’t live near a fault line.

And if you think race isn’t a reason for this double standard, you’re way off base. Are you blind or just retarded?

By Sekou K. Smith

October 24, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Read the behind enemy lines deal on SI.com. Some of it seemed on point, some of it seemed like the impressions of a guy who watched one game and came to all these conclusions and some of it was just totally off base. But it’s all opinion. And opinions from someone who most NBA decision makers would classify as a well informed but completely powerless member of the league. [Raise your hand if you thought Al Horford was Dwight Howard? That type of off base analogy is why these things have to be considered of what they are, anonymous rants]. So I don’t know that it really matters. I’d have to read all 29 of the other ones (which I’ll do at some point) to see if I all of them follow the same script. But I didn’t see anything in there that I haven’t already written, read here or heard someone say during a game. And again, it’s all just someone’s opinion (which based on the written arrows tossed around here today, is beyond meaningless). I think lots of people watch the Hawks and feel this way about their players. But I also think lots of people watch them and feel totally different. I don’t think there is one pervasive school of thought on this team or the validity of its talent.

By Good News...

October 24, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Looks like people got bored with the falcons blog and came over here….I hope this isn’t a year long trend.

Wow, a simple remark about visiting New Orleans sets off this…It’s preseason! What do you want him to report on??? He has covered just about everything lately. Daily preseason coverage is more than you will get anywhere else.

Did anybody read where Brandon Wright is maybe getting assigned to D-League…. A lottery pick! Is Golden State already up there with San Antonio with the ability to draft 1st rounders and not even have them play in the league.

By Hawksville Resident

October 24, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Nice Chris, Your generalizations amuse me! Kind of like, if you don’t want to get blind sided by Transfer truck, don’t buy a car! Then the world would be a much better place, right! lol C’mon you can’t be this simple minded! True we accept the dangers that come with everyday life. My point is the Hurricane Katrina tragedy wasn’t everyday life. Hurricanes come and go but a storm like that hadn’t happened in 300 years! For you to say “If you don’t want your home to be destroyed by a hurricane, don’t live in an area that sees a lot of them.” is very short sighted and disrespectful to everyone who lost somebody in the storm.

By ray

October 24, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

That’s the only problem with mentioning a thing like the Katrina disaster on this blog. There’s always some prick that wants to bring up some skewed point of view on race relations. There’s people who don’t want to hear about it.

Personally (not that anyone cares) I figure you should either add a thoughtful/intelligent comment or not comment at all. You don’t want to talk about it? Then don’t post. I won’t talk about the things I know now because they don’t remain with the lost homes and destroyed buildings. Dig deeper and see the tragedy that is even worse. The tragedy that is known as the total depravity of man in the wake of natural disaster. It will indeed make the stronger stomachs turn more than any soup kitchen or decimated building ever will. But anyway…

Astro Joe, we could use old man Ratliff a heck of a lot more than we could use old man Lo Wright. He’s useless. Let’s get Clyde to make a new T-shirt:

HIRE MARIO WEST, FIRE LO WRIGHT!

By Astro Joe

October 24, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Good News, Golden State is a perfect example of my mantra… coaching matters. Their most recent draft history looks something like this: Brandon Wright, Patrick O’Bryant, Ike Diogu, Michael Peitrus and Andris Biedrins. Add to that the ridiculous free agent deals for Dunleavy, Murphy, Fisher and Foyle. Seems like the team should be headed south. And they were. Then they hired Don Nelson. And they made the playoffs.

I think that is why Nelson was negotiating hard for a raise. He saw how bad off that franchise was (and in some regards, still is) and he realized just how valuable he is to that team.

Turn this roster over to Nellie and there are no questions about making the playoffs.

By MsDee

October 24, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Way to go Hawksville Resident. I’m lovin everything u say toward innorant Chris.

By mykhalc

October 24, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this

fellas and MsDee, we have to remember that from time to time we are visited by folks ‘blessed with the supreme ignorance’ that does not normally show itself here!! put your BLOG BLOCKER on ignore so we can get back to conversation as it usually exist here!! GO YOUNG GUNS!!!!

By Good News...

October 24, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this

I agree, Nellie could do wonders with this lineup and in the Eastern Conference!

But this ownership is going to play out all contracts : players and coaches. I would be really surprised if Woody was fired in the last year of his contract no matter how the year turns out. And what happens if we make a run at the playoffs. Do we really bring him back?

By MannyT

October 24, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

I took a look at the CNNSI Behind Enemy Lines for Atlanta, Cleveland, Boston, Detroit, and Phoenix. Those folks lean toward the negative for everyone so don’t get too worked up at the negative views in the Hawks write up.

Astro Joe if Mario makes the team why would his contract be guaranteed? I don’t think the Hawks did that for Bozeman or Frieje last year.

Chris you make it seem like living in New Orleans was a guarantee of a massive flood in those folks lifetime. While the probability may have been higher, people take similar risks all the time. I would guess you drive/ride in a car more than you fly in a plane. If you die in a wreck, would the response be…he should have known it was the more risky option—tell his family to take MARTA. Probably not. I get the libertarianism, but we can also have some empathy when things go bad for folks…particularly over an extended time.

In the course of doing his job, Sekou was taken on a trip to see the lasting effects of hurricane Katrina. He mentioned it in his blog. He also mentions Michigan football and interesting discussions he has with his close friends. It’s all part of what makes his blog unique. If you don’t like it…there is always the Hawks Hack Blog which could be done more interestingly by 90% of the posters to this blog.

Most folks can handle the risk of a little variety in this blog.

By Clyde

October 24, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

Lorenzen Wright would make a bigger impact on this team if he just stays hurt.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By MannyT

October 24, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

Clyde we may need LoWright’s 6 fouls in the paint…even if the occur in 3 minutes ;-)

By HB Ando

October 24, 2007 7:52 PM | Link to this

Could be wrong, but I think that the Warriors jettisoned J Rich and his big contract to acquire the young Wright. He’s kind of like Marvin, from a “just you wait and see in a couple of years” standpoint. Though he projects to be a shot-blocking, post-scoring four, rather than the jump shooting 3 that Marvin seems to be evolving into.

With the depth that team has, they can afford to develop a player like Wright. We weren’t in nearly the same place when we took Marvin’s perceived upside over Paul’s immediate PG brilliance.

By doc

October 24, 2007 8:00 PM | Link to this

well, the falcons are beginning to resemble one flew over the cuckoo’s nest and blank is beginning to make the broken atlnta spirit look like the best run organization this side of the cost cutting aol braves. ooh, that is ugly and sounds more and more like the loserville tag revisited.

amazing to think that falcon management looks to be more inept than what we describe here. have the hawks gotten that good or the falocns sunk that low? anyone remember the king of hearts, a great movie in the 70’s? yeah, who is head of the asylum over there?

did anyone smell the amoeba’s that crawled our way today? let them have their say and the family will lbe pleased they dont have to hear the vitriol for one blessed day and move on never heard anything intelligent from them about the hawks before and still cant say they have aded intelligence to the blog in the form of social relevance.

in boston, bean town now, jerseys, t-shtirts, hats, go red sox on the buses and even the little rolly poly old grandmoms with the red sox unis on. quite a happening, sad observing this, just not at the park.

By Ken Strickland

October 24, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Judging from the narrowminded comments directed at anyone with a conscience, it appears some misguided Falcon fans have joined our forum. I’ve always felt that the Hawks ownership mess was far less of an issue than the mess we have in the White House. What these idiotic respondents don’t realize is their responses are also social comentary, but lacking any type of civility.

We have got to stop letting personal attachments to certain players influence our judgement. I can see the Hawks paying a premium for JJ since his contribution can’t be duplicated by anyone currently on the team. However, with the addition of Horford, and his obvious talent and maturity, JSmith might not be worth retaining at the maximum price. Since his contributions can possibly be duplicated, his greatest value might be his trade value. Horford’s maturity and physical inside presence might actually be more of a benefit to the team. Hawks mgt is wise to wait on signing JSmith. They are giving themselves an entire season to compare Smith and Horford’s overall impact before making a financial committment. It simply doesn’t make sense to use up valuable cap space to sign JSmith when their might be a cheaper upgrade at the position. Horford’s physical inside style might better compensate for our lack of a physical presence at the 5 position. Horford’s more developed inside gm would create more open shots for his teammates. The fact that JSmith is still taking a lot of outside shots might indicate his lack of overall confidence in his newfound inside gm.

Both players, barring injury, are going to be outstanding allstar calibur players. However, Horford’s allstar talents might be more beneficial to the Hawks than JSmith’s. Also, Horford’s contributions, over the next 3yrs, will cost us a lot less money and CAP space.

By Clyde

October 24, 2007 9:07 PM | Link to this

MannyT they can sign me for the league minimum for 6 fouls. And don’t you think its messed up that we are paying a man 3 million a year just to foul out?

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By jhan

October 24, 2007 9:54 PM | Link to this

Marvin Williams, Shelden Williams, Al Horford & Acie Law.

VS

Chris Paul, Hilton Armstrong, Cedric Simmons & Julian Wright.

Atlanta vs NO draft picks the previous years. Had we drafted Paul instead of Marvin this is what we likely would have ended up with.

Hard to say right now which you would rather have. At least all the Hawks are still in the league. Cedric Simmons has been cut.

By mykhalc

October 24, 2007 10:08 PM | Link to this

JHAN, i actually wanted ARMSTRONG as the pick that year…

By HB Ando

October 24, 2007 10:48 PM | Link to this

Ken, this isn’t an either/or point, so I’m not saying Johnson should be traded. But your statement that Josh Smith’s contributions might be more easily duplicated than those of Johnson is statistically incorrect. What Smith does, from a rebounding, assist AND top-five shot blocking standpoint, is only ball parked by AK, from a couple of years (and it remains to be seen if he can repeat those numbers) and Marion.

Conversely, there are easily 10 other wing players could provide Johnson’ production, ON THIS TEAM.

Now, clearly, there are numerous other intangibles, and I’m not advocating a trade of either, at time, unless if facilitated the acquisition of a legitimate center.

As others have said, the Hawks are not the only team to choose not to extend their players, at this time, to, rather, see how they develop, make sure they don’t have a catastrophic injury, and then let the market assist them in defining their value (or, over-value).

If he proves himself to be worth max, or near-max, money, this year, then the Hawks will either pay him, or leverage his market value to trade him.

From an overview standpoint, I don’t see a guy on this team who is untouchable. They have some redundant talent, and I’d move any of them if I thought I could finally balance this roster, and make it truly competitive in he East.

But that’s my logic, and lord knows I can’t account for what Billy will, or won’t, do……..

By Scott

October 24, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

To further prove HB Ando’s point and my point for years under this idiot Knight - Melvin Ely and Hilton Armstrong had a FIELD day against undersized Shelden and Horford tonight. You fools who still believe Horford and Shelhead can play playoff type basketball at the center position are misguided and the perfect fans for the BS Billy Knight, Bernie Mullin, and goofball Micheal Gearon Jr. spew on the air. The Hawks need a LEGIT center, and will get beat up down low against good teams. Playoff basketball always grinds to a halt, and Shel and Horford are not tall enough for rigors of the NBA paint wars.

By HB Ando

October 24, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Jhan, actually, Simmons was traded to the Cavs, and unless I missed something, is still on their roster (was as of today). He’s still viewed as raw, and I think they acquired him as insurance for if didn’t work things out with Verajao. Armstrong, Simmons and Wright were all double-digit selections, which is what we would have had if we had taken Paul, instead of Marvin.

As I’ve said before, it’s ironic that we’ve assembled some interesting pieces, because it’s only through Billy’s total ineptitude that we keep picking so early, and have yet had to give that final first rounder to Phoenix. That Billy is clever like an ox.

By Clyde

October 24, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this

Solomon Jones had 3 blocks but only played 10 minutes.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Get Real

October 24, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I really felt sorry for all those people that were carrying flat-screen TVs and new Nikes in waist-deep waters during Katrina. what do you do when a storm hits? Do you help your fellow man? Do you try to provide a service for your devastated community?

No, I have an idea. Let’s go steal a bunch of flat-screens (that we can’t watch anyway because there’s no electricity, cable, etc.) and a bunch of tennis shoes (that will only get messed up because we’re knee-deep in water)! Yeah, that’s how we’ll help our city get back on her feet!

Nah, forget it. Let’s just go live for free in another city and ignore their laws, too.

By Get Real

October 24, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Wanna talk about the real outrage involving Katrina? How about local government incompetence. Mayor “Chocolate City” Nagin leaves busses parked in a lot and allows trains to leave NOLA empty. How about saving some of your people instead of waiting around for the Big Bad Federal Government to come rescue you?

How about getting the hell out of dodge instead of sitting around in your house waiting for a hurricane that’s barreling down on you? How about not listening to numerous warnings?

By smartguy

October 25, 2007 12:19 AM | Link to this

Around here, we save our hatred and anger for Billy and Woody, if you haven’t noticed. But, do we now need to give Woody one more chance anyway?

By Bronnt

October 25, 2007 12:30 AM | Link to this

Just a few thoughts

1) Didn’t listen to much of the game, but I really have to wonder how our Hawks would have faired if Tyson Chandler had not been resting. Back up center Hilton Armstrong apparently played like Amare Stoudamire.

2) I’d like to think, now, with one week until their first game, that Mario West can consider himself an Atlanta Hawk. He’s a guy who I always felt had a bit of a disappointing career at Tech-he was constantly buried in the depth chart because Tech kept recruiting great young guards, and the breakout year I hoped Mario would have never was. He was a dominant player in high school. But I wonder if he’s going to have the same fate as Cedric Bozeman - great preseason showing and released 2 months into the season.

3) Is Zaza good to start the season? We’re likely to need him more early in the season than later, when we have a feel for how to use Horford in the rotation. In addition to the fact that the schedule is brutal in the opening month. He could be an unsung piece that determines the Hawks’ fate this year.

4) Am I the only guy who believes the Hawks might be the second best team in the southeast this year? The Heat can’t stay healthy, though they helped themselves with the Ricky Davis trade, and Orlando has issues in the backcourt. They could just as easily finish fifth, but I’m espousing optimism.

By Ken Strickland

October 25, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

ANDO, what’s up my friend. I think BK is going to see if Horford can have a ROY type season before any decision is made on JSmith. If so, he could be a logical replacement. Horford might not be as exciting or as athletic as JSmith, but he can be just as effective if not more so for the Hawks. Horford should be able to approximate JSmith’s rebounding, scoring and assist production. Josh might be a more prolific shot blocker, but Horford is likely a better on the ball defender with shot blocking capability.

The point I was trying to make is trading JSmith could make us a more talented and balanced team with more CAP space to sign FA’s. The Hawks made their last 2 top picks PF’s reputed to be the most mature and NBA ready bigs in their respective drafts. Also, both SWilliams and Horford were known for their ability to play inside. I find it hard to believe this wasn’t planned with Josh in mind. This might explain why Josh worked so hard on his inside gm this off season.

By force45

October 25, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

Gosh, sure glad Scott came in and let us know the truth finally. Lord knows we never even saw what HB Ando has been saying all this time. Such fools we have been to think Shell and Al could play center. Don’t know where we might have even gotten that idea. Oh wait, who are these fools anyway?

Well, Scott? You know so much, call somebody out then. By name, that is. Ignorant punk.

By no_id

October 25, 2007 12:50 AM | Link to this

to get real,

that was the dumbest post i read on here..i thought chris posted that until i saw yours..anyway, i read behind enemy lines on si about the hawks, and who ever that was, was brutal..he spoke as if he had a personal beef or something..i tend to believe that the hawks are gonna surprise a lot of people this year depending on how woodson is able to coach them at a style that fits the players and barring any serious injuries like last year.

By THE Hawks Fan

October 25, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

People luv to hate the HAWKS. Why??Because they have been bad for sooooo long it seems natural. Its simple, they win Woody and BK keep thier jobs. Lose and they will beat the Turkey getting done by Thanksgiving. Losing is a REAL BAD HABIT to break. So why not break it in the Pre season. This HAWKS team is doing something I havent seen in the past 9 years and thats playing DEFENSE. Chalk that up to a gritty kid from Ga TECH. He has showed these guys its still cool to D Up and be TEAM MATES! This is the youngest strongest team in the NBA. So you damn right, run run run. 15 GUYS that can PLAY! So BASH the Team Woody and Billy if you want to,BUT to right this ship they need your support 100%. That means every swingin Richard should be in the house on Nov 2. LOUD N PROUD!! Its time for a NEW ERA in HAWKS Basketball!!!! I LOVE MY CITY AND MY TEAM. THE ATLANTA HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!

By d

October 25, 2007 2:23 AM | Link to this

has anyone found highlights to ANY games this preseason? NBA.com has highlights for every game EXCEPT Hawks games, and of course there’s no love from the four letter network.

By Clyde

October 25, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this

Ken Strickland

“Josh might be a more prolific shot blocker, but Horford is likely a better on the ball defender with shot blocking capability.”

Did you watch the NCAA title game when Horford got totally dominated by Oden? Do you not see the box scores of the big men we have faced this pre-season? Get real man. Horford is a good rebounder but he’s not good defender.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By bwtbird

October 25, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

Ken: If you say something enough times does that make it true?? 1. Oden went for 25-12 while Horford went for 18-12…many times it was Noah guarding Oden…Noah went for 8-3 so if anyone got dominated it wasn’t Horford 2. They weren’t playing 1-on-1…Florida won the game and thankfully Horford cares more about the bottom line than winning a stat battle 3. Anyone that watches him play…that has a clue…realizes that …injuries excepted…he will be a tremendous NBA player…maybe not as good as Oden, but tremendous nonetheless

By Scott

October 25, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

Force45 - you are classy. “Ignorant Punk”? Go back to the Falcons board please and whine about how the media is mis-treating Michael Vick.

By Ryder

October 25, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

I think the plan is for Josh to be the full time PF while Horford plays the 5 spot, it’s all a matter of how much Smith improves his game/ attitude, which has really improved from what I hear.

Great to see Marvin attacking on offense this preseason. It’s cautious optimism, but I do see that for the first time in years we will be able to talk more about what’s going on the court than off it.

Bronnt, Hilton Armstrong did have a great game. Remember this however, that had Acie Law had been playing the Hawks would’ve dominated this game even more since AJ was off.

By Chris

October 25, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

No_ID, I AM Be Real. I just posted on my girlfriend’s computer and her screen name was saved, and I forgot to change it. So, yes, I take credit for the 2 dumbest posts you’ve ever seen. Is there an award?

By Chris

October 25, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

Sorry, I meant “I AM Get Real,” not “Be Real.” Guess I’m such an idiot I can’t even keep names straight. My bad. From now on, all my ridiculous posts will be under the name “Chris,” so you don’t have to wonder anymore. Yep, that’s me.

By doc

October 25, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

chris, having spoken to an internationally known and wealthy acupuncturist today lecturing me in boston whose home burned to the ground this weekend the sense of devastation and loss has no limits nor boundaries in its impact on those that have and those that dont. he is devastated and senses the loss and with some trepedation and loss close to tears going forward.

chris, since you show such pride in your position maybe you can judge others so freely and maybe you have experienced such and have come through it to state the things you are, i wholeheartedly congratulate you on your conviction. however, if not as a warning when you do your ability to show compassion will grow once you get off your knees or else you wont get up. it happens to the best of them. some have the resources, often, innate intelligence, education, health or healthier socioeconomics are involved to pick up and go others simply dont have whatever reserve it takes. a warning, judgment of others might be for something much greater than you. i feel sure my friend will pick up quite well but the hole in him will be held for a long time. ultimately, we are ALL pilgrims.

By Ken Strickland

October 25, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

CLYDE, BWTBIRD, are you guys serious? Are you actually judging Horford’s, or any other players DEF abilities based on one college gm? Neither one of you can tell me what kind of DEF Florida employed during the gm. I remember a college gm that took place between Houston and UCLA featuring then Lew Alcindor(Kareem A Jabbar) and Elvin Hayes. Houston won that gm and Elvin Hayes dominated Kareen on both ends of the court. I’m certain there were people like you who rushed to judge Kareen based on that one game. I guess most of us know who won the NCAA title and dominated the rematch by winning the MVP. So, which gm would either of you choose to judge either player?

Please remember, most of the opinions we post are just opinions. However, some opinions are more informed than others. BWTBIRD, your opinion on Horford’s NBA future in very informed. I just don’t think the difference between Horford’s and JSmith’s abilities and NBA future is worth using up cap space offering JSmith a near maximum contract. Resigning JSmith, and moving him to SF, and starting Horford at PF will not address the teams weakness at C. However, starting Horford at PF and trading JSmith just might help us resolve our problem at C. We could use the saved cap space to sign a FA, or use our newly acquired draft picks, or both. This is about the team, not individual players.

By mykhalc

October 25, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

congrats to MARIO WEST for makin’ the roster. WOODSON has avoided at least one brain-freeze!!!

By Chris

October 25, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Well, doc, where are the telethons to help your friend rebuild his shattered life? Where are the Sean Penn’s of the world to tell us we have o help these people in California? Why haven’t any pop stars announced plans for a “California Wildfires” CD or concert?

Yet, all these things reared their evil heads when Katrina happened. Why no outpouring of support for Cali? Why the hypocrisy?

All I am saying is that in this world, everything that happens to someone is ultimately because of decisions made by that person. If I stroll down Spring St. at 3 in the morning and get mugged, I didn’t DESERVE to be mugged. But if I didn’t want to lose my wallet, I shouldn’t have been walking down Spring St. at 3 a.m.

Don’t want your home to burn in a wildfire? Don’t live in an area that has them EVERY YEAR! It’s not like this is new, people. This happens every damn year. Some day, people will (hopefully) wake up and move the hell out.

By bwtbird

October 25, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Ken: I have no argument with the possibility of say, a sign and trade involving JS to strengthen the C spot..I think a reasonable argument can be made that the Hawks do need to get bigger-stronger in the post area, as long as bigger-stronger is in terms of actually someone who can “play”, and the Horford will be a much better PF than C…by the same token the idea that he is somehow not a good defender because Oden “dominated” him is simply not true…would Horford have problems night after night guarding the Oden’s of the world 1-on-1 in the post…yes…but then so would Diop..Foyle…Pryzbilla…etc…or any other number of “true” 5’s—It’s all about value and he brings tremendous value to a NBA roster

By Astro Joe

October 25, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

chris, I sincerely hope the next tornado doesn’t hit you and your cousin (oops, I mean girlfriend), because I’m sure you were very careful where you parked that double-wide. But twisters just seem to find those things anywhere, even in the Eric Rudolph Confederate Forest. Good luck to you, David Dukes and all those banjo-playing friends of yours.

By roan st

October 25, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

I have to ditto mykhalc’s congrats to mario west. A guy who worked his tail off to make the roster. And what a humble guy who has been quoted time and again as saying “it’s a blessing just to be invited to training camp”. The absolute antithesis of todays prima donna athelete. A refreshing story indeed.

By curious

October 25, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

I have alway heard that everyone can think you are a fool but you will never know until you open your mouth. Thanks, Chris for proving that. Back to basketball what happened to the Hawks running the ball. Have you noticed Woody has gone back to his usual three plays?

By A Thinking Fan

October 25, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Mario West Kudos!!!

By doc

October 25, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

chris unless you are very careful you and millions more might not have a lot of water soon. is that what you deserved when you cant take a shower? do you really think you control everything?

not speechless or shocked, laughing out loud and quite bemused by this dialogue at this point. i know that minds arent changed and certainly not one as deeply ingrained in your belief system. peace dude.

By Ken Strickland

October 25, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

BWTBIRD, no sweat, because we are on the same page. I’m really excited about this team. Last yr we got off to a great start despite our injuries. Hopefully, we can get off to another great start. After all, this team has more experience, maturity, talent, versatility and is better able to withstand injuries. I honestly believe we have more than than just preseason hope and wishful thinking to go on. This is going to be one very interesting yr for the Hawks and the NBA.

By MannyT

October 25, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Mario for making the team!

Is there a message in the Hawks regular season starting on Friday, when the league begins 3 days earlier?

As for all the contract stuff, maybe it is for the best to let everyone play out the year and then figure out who gets what. After all, the Joshes will have a better idea of their worth in the restricted free agent market. The Hawks get to play the reactive card and decide if they will match any offer that comes this way. Who knows what opportunities can come from a sign & trade if needed next summer.

Doc you are too kind. I think I’m on the same page with you regarding Chris /girlfriend /BeReal /GetReal /etc. with one exception.

If Chris believes things are so clear regarding choices people make then there is no room for empathy. That leaves some harsh judgment for most folks that die, get injured (physically or emotionally), and otherwise fall on hard times. That includes soldiers in combat, victims of child abuse, and those who choose to help in times of crisis (police, medical professionals, etc.) instead of getting away from likely danger.

I choose to live a life that has room for empathy. Not that I agree with everyone, but sometimes things turn out far different than you would expect from the probability and statistics that quantify your choices. The same way I don’t hate people who win lotteries even though the odds were clearly against them.

Maybe Chris deserves abuse for posting here because he has seen how most folks view his thoughts and he came back with multiple personalities. While I won’t do it, some societies might stone him in a public square for such a thing ;-)

By mykhalc

October 25, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this

it’s what happens when amoebas try to think!!!

By doc

October 25, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this

amen, myk, again going on the line of the righteous connection that you brought to us from last week. he has spoken!

it is no one’s fault that they dont have empathy or compassion for others, simply a brain that hasnt quite been completed in its entire capability. sometimes blood just doesnt flow there for whatever reason through no one individual’s fault. therefore it is about acceptance. going forward, stand and er well sit down and squint and welcome the amoeba. fortunately he did come forward and say there was only one, much to my relief, to add to our little group of merry liar’s. what is one more even if it is slippery and amorphic?

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

I’ve just erased the starts to two (ack, make that now three) separate posts regarding Chris’ comments. Pointless.

By G Money

October 25, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Guys, there is no reason to continue to give a forum like this one to guys like Chris. It is ridiculous that we even have to wade through the muck. Obviously, Chris doesn’t understand the rules of engagement on this site. Personally, I would ignore any further incidiary statements and move on.

Kudos to Sekou for all the posts and the Hawks organization for winning the preseason. All wins are worth celebrating. Also congrats to Mario West. Dude hussled his a* off and was appropriately rewarded. His work ethic, enthusiasm on the floor and love for the game could be a lesson to us all.

Honestly, I’m a little nervous this year. Last year I was all excited only to have my bubble burst by end of November. Perhaps this year will be different. A lot of people believe that these Hawks are actually for real. I’ve seen marked improvement myself. Could this be a playoff year?

By mykhalc

October 25, 2007 6:15 PM | Link to this

DOC, LOL.

it’s OFFICIAL…NBA LEAGUE PASS is a done deal!!! GO YOUNG GUNS!!!

ANDO, you probably saved yourself on those lost posts!! the UNIVERSE was lookin’ out for ya bro!!!LOL

couldn’t help it DOC!!!LOL

and DOC, i still think there is not too much luv between WOODSON and SALIM!!!???!!! you think MARIO gets the minutes instead??? i don’t know anythin’ about MARIO’s game and how it might compare to SALIM’s???!!! but i just got this feelin’…..

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Ryder, I see it completely opposite. I think this team’s future success (if not possible this year) lies in Josh or Marvin at the three, and Horford at the four. And the team will just have to make a choice, whether it’s purely basketball, purely financial, purely market driven, or, most likely, some amalgam of the three, as to whether it’s Marvin or Josh who stays. The one who goes has to be part of a package for a legit center.

I simply cannot see this franchise ever competing for championships if it’s starting 4 is Josh and it’s 5 is Horford. But I could see that future upside if they were the 3 and 4, with a true anchor at the five.

Those who point to Horford’s production, on the OFFENSIVE end, relative to Noah’s, against Oden, fail to acknowledge that while Horford and Noah traded off getting abused by Oden, on defense, to save either from fouling out, Oden’s matchup on the DEFENSIVE end, was Noah. And that’s the primary reason Horford put up better numbers that night. Now, again, splitting hairs over one game is pointless. But make sure you honest about the context of stats when using them to defend a position.

The honest stats from last nights’ victory (which is still the most important stat) are that Armstrong and Ely combined for 41 points and 18 boards, on 11-15 from the floor, and a staggering 19-24 from the line. While Shelden and Horford combined for 14 and 12.

Now, you can easily respond by saying, “yeah, but we won, and that’s all that counts”. But if you know the NBA game, it’s about match ups and adjustments. And if yo don’t think that teams will continue to focus their game plans, when playing the Hawks, to take advantage of our undersized front line, then you’re not being very realistic.

When the regular season starts, folks will quickly recognize that they want to slow this team down, force them into half-court sets, where they are much less effective, and pound the ball inside on our undersized front line.

Again, for the millionth time: better than 30 wins? Yes. .500 and the playoffs? No.

By Ken Strickland

October 25, 2007 8:40 PM | Link to this

I think this teams level of talent, maturity and depth makes it unwise to predict wins/loses. There are simply too many variables. Injuries to key players like KGarnett, DWade, JKidd, Shaq, etc, could have a tremendous impact on a teams wins/loses and/or who makes the playoffs. I won’t go into the chemistry factor for teams adding new veteran talent to their roster.

For a number of NBA teams, preseason wins and losses are not an indicator of potential regular season success or failure. This Hawks preseason has shown some positive things not seen over the last 4yrs. Starters other than key scores/rebounders(like JJ and JSmith) stepping up and taking up the slack. We now have someone coming off the bench and consistently putting up numbers, other than JChildress or Lue(when healthy). We have versatility and depth at PG for the 1st time in 4yrs. And last, but not least, our coaching staff is finally trying to fit an uptempo style to match our uptempo talent. I think this yrs team is beyond preseason won/loss predictions.

By cp

October 25, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

Well I see the crap that is at the Falcons blog has made it’s way over here. As stated earlier, I hope this isn’t all season long (just ban them pls). Im glad Mario made the team. Every team needs a guy like that on the bench. I keep going back and forth on should we play Horford at the 5 or do we have to trade either Josh Smith or Marvin and play Horford at the 4. I can honestly say im glad im not in charge of making hat decision. The first real game is not getting here fast enough.

By ray

October 25, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Doc,Myk,Astro, Ando, here’s one for ya on Chris:

Never argue with idiots (or any other derogatory-named individuals). They will only take you down to their level and then beat you with experience. Hee hee…and ya know it’s true…

Ken, that’s right. And only sentimentality stands in the way of such clear thought. Sure I’d like to see Smoove stay and prosper, but it may not happen that way. It may not be what’s best for the team as a whole, as you said. If it means the betterment of the team (significantly) then I’m in favor of a move.

Ando, boomstik45@hotmail.com. That’s me. Sent some additional info to ya via Doc. Waiting to hear from you.

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 9:48 PM | Link to this

Ken, with all due respect, would you like eggs and bacon with that waffle?

Predictions are never about wisdom. They are about formulating an opinion and offering it up for discussion (or, in the case of the gambling world, for wagering on). There’s not much to talk about if the general consensus is that we should let the season play itself out and then retrospectively consider what has just occurred.

By ray

October 25, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Ken, the regular season is so close and the preseason is over, so it’s kind of pointless to argue about the merits of what we saw in the preseason anyway. I’m ready to see what unfolds in the regular season. I think that coaching and focus/determination of players (and coaches) will make a difference. The collective health of the team (physically, mentally and emotionally) will be a huge factor as well. So will that of other teams. We’ll see. Like you, I am ready to see the current product tested.

Ando, I agree with much of what you said. Probably all of it. I see it as collection of thoughts on what is most likely to happen. Which means there is a possibility that the unlikely can/will happen, however small that possibility is. No, it’s not a skewed or misled perception. It’s an agreement with the more likely to happen prediction that you always bring, with an allowance for the possibility that something better could actually happen. That’s what I hope for, but then…if it did happen…how long would it last.

As you said, the preferred lineup of Josh at 4, Al at 5 is very much most likely not a championship contender (or winner) foundation. Not unless you have Nash at the 1, Kobe at the 2, and your pick of SFs at the 3. So in a way, a better than expected season based on several inside or outside factors could further strengthen the idea that this lineup is just fine for now and 10 years down the road. In this way, I’d rather see more failure (as much as it would pain me) to prove and force the need to balance things better (depending on what that actually means). At the same time, I’d not be unhappy about a .500 record with the current lineup. Sound contradictory? It is…but I blame it on sentimentality. At least you know the cold logic lurks behind it all, and I assure you it would win out in the end.

By ray

October 25, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this

Heh…Ando is it a waffle because someone chooses not to make predictions as you do? I wonder if while you evidently took it as personal criticism, Ken was in fact voicing an opinion as to why HE would not make a prediction HIMSELF.

After all, who the hell wants to make a prediction around here that doesn’t agree with yours, knowing full well you will jump all over it like a slavering rabid jackal, LOL!

Hey Myk, how’d you like that animalistic description…did it just for your amusement! And Ando’s of course.

By Ken Strickland

October 25, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

RAY, you are correct. It is certainly too close to the regular season to get into a debate over wins/losses. I SIMPLY CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS SEASON TO GET STARTED. ANDO, we aren’t that far apart on this matter philosophically. Like the old saying goes, “different ship, same journey”. LET THE SEASON BEGIN. GOOD LUCK HAWKS!!!!!!

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

The “waffle” comment was a light-hearted poke (I’m working on a kinder, gentler Ando this year), so I’m glad Ken took it as such.

Ray, I got your number from Doc. I’ll try and give you a call this weekend, maybe while there’s some good college football on. Is there a better time?

By mykhalc

October 25, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

ok…i’ll add to the confusion here…

MARVIN is a better 3 than SMOOVE. plays the position better, better shot/shot selection/handles, etc…PERIOD!!

HORFORD is a more solid 4 than SMOOVE. better post-up moves, bigger body, etc…PERIOD

at this point SMOOVE puts up better all-around numbers, stats than BOTH in more than one category…PERIOD!!

HORFORD plays bigger in the middle than 6’11, 280lbs ZAZA…PERIOD!!

so what we need to hope for, IF HORFORD gets most of his minutes at the 5, especially at the start of the season, is that as a unit they play well together, compliment each other, and can handle it defensively!!! ‘cause the followin’ will not work in my opinion….

1) MARVIN comin’ off the bench…ain’t gonna happen…IMHO

2) SMOOVE as a 3…bad idea for many reasons right now. the main one bein’ the 3 skills are lackin’ and see item #1.

3) ZAZA over HORFORD at the 5…bad idea. ZAZA size advantage is NEGATED by his ‘lack of bang’. he plays small defensively!!!

the best thing that can happen for the team and SMOOVE as player is that he establish a solid jump shot and decent post game this season. that way, no matter what happens, he is dealin’ from a place of strength when the negotiations begin, with whatever team comes his way (HAWKS or whomever). ‘cause if he is a non-shootin’, no-handles, non-postin’ 3 or 4, but can rebound and provide GREAT weakside help defensively, what/where and how much does that REALLY sell or get ya????

By mykhalc

October 25, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this

BIG RAY, you gotta publish some of this stuff bro!!!LOL my girl can tell when i’m readin’ your posts!!! ‘cause i can’t stop laughin’ and my side hurts!!!!

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 10:54 PM | Link to this

Myc, ask AK47 what that will get you….I believe it was a max-deal. And right this minute, I think Smoove can do more on the court than AK. The best thing the franchise has going for it, with regards to the market, is that there just won’t be many folks with max-cap space.

To be honest, I just think wondering about the status of his future contract is the least of our worries.

Look, as much as we can keep going on and on (and on and on and on) about Horford as a five, and where Smith fits, we do have better depth than ever. So we can play to match ups and we can survive a single injury, here or there. If this sounds like optimism, from an unexpected source, so be it. But, again, most other folks improved too. And you’re looking at a team that’s primary rotation will be made up of Joe Johnson and a bunch of 21-22 year olds. And recent history says that Woody DOES NOT seem to fully grasp “in game” match ups and substitutions. So why expect him to pull a 180?

Just don’t open yourselves to wide for the disappointment of another sub-playoff season.

By doc

October 25, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

yeah ando, you blew it with this flip side action, there is a “worst person in the world” online from atlanta and it wasnt you. it also wasnt our new found friend though he was fast closing before voting was curtailed from what i read. maybe next year, huh?

By Adam

October 25, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this

I almost never post but at this point, why not?

Astro - I completely agree that Chris is ridiculous, but I would say two things to that. (1) conflating him with ‘trailer trash’ adds an unnecessarily classist component to the discussion - or whatever it is - and lowers you to his level. My guess is that he doesn’t live in a trailer park, which brings me to point #2. (2) While we are taught to ignore people like that, I’m beginning to think ignorance is not bliss: it merely preserves the status quo, which, as it happens, rewards people like Chris. His opinions are not merely those of a redneck; they’re shared by many in America, most of whom just keep to themselves.

I could, like so many here, go into detail about how so many people couldn’t leave New Orleans because they lacked economic means and had never actually left before, how so many people want to go home but there is no home to which they can return, how the news right now is dominated by the California fires, and how Chris’ comments are clearly and most offensively inflected with racial undertones. But I won’t. I’ll just say that there are more than ‘trailer trash’ harboring such anger at the dispossessed, and this is nothing new in American history.

As for basketball… I agree with Ando: J-Smith and Horford would work wonders as a 3 and 4, respectively, going forward. I’d love to see a true 5, even if he is not a great scorer, who can bang down low and allow Horford to succeed the way he did in that finals game against Ohio State. The good news is that we aren’t talking about the PG position anymore, so that’s something.

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

Doc, seriously. When I saw the headlines, I thought it was time to pay my ever-growing bill. Then I went to the guys’ website. And while I found it to be kind of shallow and pathetic, I also felt like the guy was being demonized in what can only be described as a major overreaction.

You and Myc (and many others, like the Big Boom Stick and Flash) touch on the construct of karma, especially of late. And you know, from our talks, that I’m no stranger to the issue. That dudes’ website was like a “How To” for challenging cosmic karma.

Couldn’t help but shake my head. Crazy thing is, is that he’s already accurately ID’d that this is his 15 minutes, and, in our crazy “famous for no good reason” society, he’s looking to cash in on his arbitrary infamy.

I say, “good luck, dude”. Which is the same thing I’d say to anyone who wagers their hard earned money on the Hawks making the playoffs this year.

I’m out like my chances of finding Mrs. Right on Match.com (the fact that I’m already married to Mrs. Right, notwithstanding).

By Clyde

October 25, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

Here is my prediction for this year. There was a lot of people hatin’ on me because I got the win/lost total for last year exactly right, but I’m back at it again. I’m the reigning champ. You can’t stop no playa!!!

37-45

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

OK, I’m watching the World Series, and am I the only one who finds irony in watching 3 near middle-aged men still singing under the name “Boyz to Men”?

When are one of those guys going to be on Dancing with the Stars, or, at least, “I Love New York III”?

By doc

October 25, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this

i couldnt bear to go as far as reading his web site. glad he has recovered to try and make something more of his “fame” as dubious the distinction as it is. you know some people have all the luck or are able to make lemonade out of lemons not realizing the mockery that it has become. can anyone say out of touch all the way to the bank?

By HB Ando

October 25, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

Doc, as much as you are about the never-ending quest for knowledge and better understanding of your fellow man, you do yourself a great disservice by not checking this guys’ website out.

Seriously.

By doc

October 25, 2007 11:41 PM | Link to this

dad gum clyde, not only are you making full sentences and in depth analysis you are beginning to sound like an optimist. :-)

i got them at 36 at best, a 20% improvement.

By LAJ

October 26, 2007 12:04 AM | Link to this

Was at Woodward Academy for Hawks practice, but did not see assistant coach Alton Lister. Does anyone know what happened to him? I thought he was on coaching staff.

By mykhalc

October 26, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

ANDO, i can’t REALLY disagree with anythin’ in your post bro. but lemme ask you this. when did AK47 get that max deal??? i don’t know so that’s why i’m askin’. if it was in or before summer ‘06 then i say the market is not a max deal market for what AK47 brings today. look at the deals that have happened since last summer. has anybody, other than LEBRON or WADE or DHOWARD or MELO been able to demand max kinda money??? even tho WADE, MELO and LEBRON did not take max deals for future positionin’ themselves later. so i’m askin’ cause i don’t know…???

LOL, on the BOYZ TO MEN dig!!! brothas just tryin’ to get paid!!LOL

By Chris

October 26, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

“many people couldn’t leave New Orleans because they lacked economic means and had never actually left before.”

If you’re an adult in this country and you have not developed the economic means or relationships with others to LEAVE TOWN WHEN A HURRICANE IS COMING, that’s your own fault. If you haven’t advanced to the point where you can listen to warnings and actually leave, you got problems.