Hawks

By kreedham

October 31, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’ll go 44-38. 5th or 6th seed.

By vdunkndunk

October 31, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

I expect about 38 wins. I’m just not all that sure that we’ve improved much at PG. Looks like Speedy is just as injured as he was last year, and Law probably isn’t ready yet.

But I think Horford’s toughness and rebounding, along with the natural progression of Marvin and the Joshes and a little bit of depth, ought to be good for about 8 more wins, even in a tougher Eastern Conference.

If Speedy gets healthy and Law is farther along than I think, then maybe we sneak above 40 wins and make the playoffs. Plus I do think having Anthony Johnson for an entire season will help, and I’m encouraged by the Hawks’ record in the preseason.

So overall, 38 wins sounds like about right to me, factoring in the inevitable injuries and everything else - although it’s certainly not impossible that they win as many as 44 games. It’s NEXT year that I really expect this Hawks team to make the playoffs if we can keep the Joshes around.

By bob

October 31, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this

I say, 44-46 wins

By Hatertots

October 31, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

The Hawks will become more dangerous over the course of the season as Horford gets more involved offensively and Law gets more time at the point. They’ll look bad after that brutal opening eleven game stretch, winning only 3 or 4, but the Hawks’ll turn it around after that. I’ll say 41-46 wins.

By KY

October 31, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Let’s see you start off stating:

First thing, mind your business big homey. There’s nothing worse than a person all up in your phone conversation without an engraved invitation

then later you state:

Little tidbit picked up while eavesdropping on a conversation on the sideline before a recent exhibition game.

Isn’t that a little contradictory?

Keep your cell phone conversations in the car or out of my space so I don’t have to hear you!

By Astro Joe

October 31, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this

38 wins; 10th place finish in the East; 3rd place finish in SE. And I’m expecting the ownership mess to be settled by the end of the season (out-of-court settlement). And Woody finishes the year as Head Coach.

By the way, supposedly, most Vegas casinos have the Hawks winning 38.5 games this season. And is anyone going to question they’re ability to forecast in the world of sports?

By Hawksville Resident

October 31, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this

I’ve been to all of the preseason games and I see a vastly improved team. Every Sports writer, whether with a positive or negative Hawks prediction, agrees that we’re better than last year. Based on that and the fact that we won 35 last year, I don’t see why 38- 40 wins would be a stretch even in an improved Eastern Conference. My prediction 40-42 8th seed in the east and Golden State type upset of Detroit in the first round!

By Volman

October 31, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

I’m going to say 40 wins. 8th or 9th place.

By Jonathan

October 31, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this

Hello All, After this many years of suffering, 42 wins would be amazing. Gotta say it is kinda scary to see the bandwagon that is forming in Hawksille. As someone who broke a remote control over the Priest Lauderdale pick, I still suppose it is better to have a bandwagon than the usual people coming to watch other stars play.
Sekou, you are one of my favorite writers going even though you are misguided enough to be a Michigan fan. Glad that Lang Whitaker has also come aboard as well. We need all the fans that we can get. Please do not jump off to early, our opening schedule is brutal so hold on. If the T’wolves beat us by 45 then jump off.

By Jamaaliver

October 31, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Put me down for a solid 41 wins. With improved depth and a fresh Joe Johnson we should easily pick up another ten wins………

We’ll be the eighth seed in the playoffs.

By Jamaaliver

October 31, 2007 12:22 PM | Link to this

Put me down for a solid 41 wins. With improved depth and a fresh Joe Johnson we should easily pick up another ten wins………

We’ll be the eighth seed in the playoffs.

By gutz

October 31, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Hawksville Resident, the Hawks only won 30 games last year not 35.

By Ryder

October 31, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

39-43, 10th seed in the East. Woodson will be let go and they will resign Josh Smith but let Childress and Anthony Johnson leave.

By mavid

October 31, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

I’m saying 39 wins and just outside of the playoffs.

Oh, and I’m guessing the star pg was Arenas, that just sounds like something he would say.

By Willie Coyote

October 31, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

If they can get a consistent up-tempo chemistry going by the second half of the season (I think it will take some games before they can consistently push the pace the way they want to.), they could get closer to 50 than 40. That assumes a lot so I’ll stick to last years prediction and say 40ish wins & 40ish losses.

By Champ

October 31, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

First off i’m a big Hawks fan and I hope that they do well, but the telling stat will be how they are after the first ten games. DAL,DET,PHX,BOS,SA… they could very easily be 3-7. The key will be how they respond. It also seems that this group of players on this team just can not stay healthy for a full year. With all that said my prediction is a little lower 34-38 wins.

By redhawk

October 31, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks had the average amount of injuries last year they would have won 34, so it’s reasonable to expect six more wins than that. If we get all our five point guards playing decent, a contending team is going to need one and we can make a trade for a decent big man. And, Hawks fans, the first five games are pretty rough—Mavs, Pistons, Nets, Suns, Celtics—so don’t get down if they start slow. At least the Hawks don’t have to Go West until January.

P.S. Are the Celtics overrated? Doesn’t it take five players to make a full squad? I mean, Rajon Rondo and Kendrick Perkins?

By Hawksville Resident

October 31, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I stand corrected. Well I guess our improvement will be more than I thought. My prediction stays the same.

By GaSouthernEagle95

October 31, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

First, let me say that you are the best AJC beat writer. You always have something cooking for the fans to stay in tune with. I love that! Other writers don’t post for days on end. My prediction is for the Hawks to finish with 40-45 wins. This is based on Law and Horford both producing like veterans by the break. Also, for this to happen, we need Shelden Williams to be a “Charles Oakley” type player, a bruiser who can hit the J out to 15ft.

Who do you think will be a surprise player for the team this year and why?

By bwtbird

October 31, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Big range of possibilities I think…gonna say 42-48 wins- Low end if there is one or two injuries or if Woody goes into a conservative walk it up shell at the first sign of trouble- 48 wins if he just lets them go and they stay relativley injury free- Not near as sold on the rest of the East as some others are…it still is a weak division

By BeFrank

October 31, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

My prediction is for 40 wins. Hopefully Zaza gets back in the lineup soon so we don’t start to wear Al Horford down. Also I’m hoping that Woody will give Acie plenty of minutes because he’s going to be really good in the second half forward. Go Hawks!!!!

By Clyde

October 31, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

We are wasting MILLIONS on Speedy and Lorenzen Wright but we won’t sign Josh Smith.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By DekaturKing

October 31, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this

42-46

By Floze

October 31, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

I heard Woody on 790 this morning saying that Horford can be one of the great Power Forwards in our leauge. While I agree, I think that leaves us with a pretty nasty hole at the center poistion. Josh and Al will have to man up at the 4 and 4 positions to make a 5. I think athletically they can block shots, rebound, and provide some insode presence. I would just like to some more height and weight in the middle for the big fellas.

By mykhalc

October 31, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, i’ll stick with my earlier prediction of 40 wins. not sure if that’ll be enough to get them into the playoffs, tho.

at least my inactive list was correct, SPEEDY and WRIGHT. (DOC, still postin’ with the INVISO-SPEEDY ink, don’t worry LOL) we probably could’ve used LO’s fouls with ZAZA bein’ out but SOLO needs to be ready to step it up, EARLY!!! and i REALLY hope SPEEDY sits until…..i DO NOT wanna see WOODSON make the same in and out, yo-yo moves he made with him last year!!!his availability, especially if inconsistent, WILL NOT serve the team well!!!

By LEA

October 31, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Clyde… Blo and Speedy both suck.. And are useless… We don’t need either one of them

By silky-d

October 31, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

I looked at the standings from “05-06” and “06-07” seasons; Toronto won 20 more games last season than the previous season. I don’t believe they have great talent throughout their roster. The East has improved but I believe the Hawks hae improved enough to make a sizable increase in wins as Toronot did last year. I’m predicting 42-45 wins because of the drafting of Horford and Law and the maturing of a young goup of guys that are much more talented than the Raptors. Woody is the deciding factor in this equation!!

By Mr. Gilley

October 31, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

I am a fan of the Hawks and I am realistic as well. However, I believe in my heart that they will contend for the playoffs and ultimately qualify. Last year 30-52….This year 43-39….Plus or Minus barring any injuries, additions, or great season from Josh Smith and Marvin Williams!!

By Greg

October 31, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

I think 42 to 45 wins. If we are thinking Playoffs that the win total to get us there.

ALSO I THINKS THE HAWKS ARE PREPARING TO LET JOSH SMITH GO. IF MARVIN HAS A GOOD YEAR AND AL HORFORD IS ALL HE IS BILLED TO BE. THEY WILL LET JSMITH GO. I THINK IT’S CRAZY, BUT I THINK THAT’S THEIR STRATEGY. They will sign Josh Childress, but they can’t afford to keep JSmith, Marvin,& JChil. JChill and Marvin are first high 1st rounders, so those are the Hawks priortites.

By The Truth

October 31, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

If you don’t want people “all up in your cell phone conversation,” maybe you should stop loudly blabbing on it while in line inside a restaurant. That’s the real crime here.

By Omnihawk

October 31, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

Predictions: 55 wins….for the Spurs

35 for Atlanta

Josh Smith earns his max deal and BK lets him go for a second round pick.

Speedy never steps on a basketball court again.

Woody plays Horford 8 minutes a game, and “develops” him by teaching him the art of hacking.

Clyde is elected mayor of Hawkville.

By CRobinson

October 31, 2007 2:54 PM | Link to this

41-41. Hawks make playoffs. Yes the East got better, but a lot of the non-playoff and a few Playoff teams got worse. Besides wins will be harder for the non-elite so we shouldn’t be surprised to see a few more 50 win teams and few more 20’s and Teens. Sekou how’d you like that Lang from Slam took at you? haha

By gutz

October 31, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

If Josh Smith is not resigned the Hawks can just forget about having any fans coming to the games. I will not renew my season tickets! You don’t let a guy like Josh Smith leave period!!

By mississippi

October 31, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I say 44 wins.
I’m curious who the change in the starting five could be. Sheldon for AH or Law/Lue for Johnson. I wouldn’t mind sheldon getting the start. It’s only Wednesday. I have faith the 2 Joshes will sign when the season is over. They have to match. Let’s move on from that. And it doesn’t matter where a player was drafted after he plays, so whoever said MW, JC were the clear priorities is crazy. The best places for the team are the priorities, that’s Josh Smith.

By Ramon

October 31, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I am predicting 45-46 wins this season. I know that is 15 games improvement, however with JJ not playing olympics this past off season, he’s more likely to be injury free this season. Also, I pray the Hawks resign the Joshes and run with this line up for a good while.

Everyone is saying the Hawks need a better starting center. However, the Bulls won with Luc Longley and Wennington. Dennis Rodman was a great defender, but wasn’t a shot blocker. I have no doubt in my mind that Zaza is better than both of those. And if the Hawks do the right thing as far as tempo, their mismatches 2-4 (also PG when Law is on the court) will override their disadvantage at the center position. Also remember Clyde’s Blazers, won consistently without a great big man, and Barkley’s Suns did also.

By Don!

October 31, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

My prediction: 42-40, 2nd in the SE, 6th overall in the Eastern Conference.

With that having been said, I can see the Hawks winning 50 games if Acie Law plays as well as either of the two PGs we passed over in the ‘05 draft and Marvin Williams, JJ and Josh Smith play well enough to make the All-Star game … and we manage to get through New Year’s with a record over .500.

I can also see the Hawks winning less than 30 games if we lose JJ again for a significant amount of time, or if Horford’s rookie season matches the Landlord’s from last year. Another bad possibility would be the simple inability for this team to truly gel and fall into a losing rut — a possibility given their tough early schedule. Ownership could make a coaching change, and the team could struggle to adapt and … we would be no better off than we were two years ago, except we don;t have our 1st round pick to comfort us through what would be a really ugly off-season.

In reality, I think this team will fall in the middle of those expectations and my 42-40 prediction is based on this team making to Christmas playing .500 ball. I wouldn’t be surprised to see us play the first half of the season a couple of games under .500 — but as long as we can sniff the break even point through January, I think this team can make the playoffs with a good stretch run.

Anyway, I’m looking forward to this season — and the future. I think we’ll be challenged to keep both Joshes after the season, but I’m not sure that’s a bad thing. They’ll both be playing for contracts, and as restricted free agents we can match any offer. Barring a major bump in the salary cap, or major trades — the number of teams that would be bidding on the pair would be relatively limited … unless there are owners willing to go over the cap to get them and the Hawks not match. Of course, that would likely open up a sign-and-trade … but anyway, that’s an issue for Memorial Day, not Halloween!

I’m looking forward to a fun season, and a good blog from Sekou to make my workday up here in Philly go by faster.

Later,

Don!

By Singindablues

October 31, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

45+ wins if healthy - mid to upper 30’s if the injury bug lingers. Starting the season without Zaza healthy is a problem and may cost them a few games they otherwise might have won.

Sekou, you say we didn’t add any allstars? Think smoove might get a nod this year? And I predict Horford & acie won’t be far behind in the next couple of years. Don’t think we have to necessarily add much to the young talent on hand just be patient , the stars are already on board just maybe not quite polished yet. Winning will change everyone’s perception of the players on hand.

By MsDee

October 31, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

I think by not signing the Joshes gives them & the Hawks exactly was both wants..By the Joshes not signing makes them want to work just that much better to get the mula(money) they desire by playing smart, exciting basketball that way making it to the playoffs and beyond which leads us to the Hawks getting what they want and need,,the new found respect and a chance to get some quality players to be interested if the Hawks decide not to resign Joshes..so in saying all that, I say they will win 46-48 wins, keeping Coach Woodson his job and not giving the Suns our draft pick!!

By JMF

October 31, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this

This Hawk team will improve. They have made some good additions. I project 38-42 wins.

By bryant

October 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

i think that josh was going to get a big deal reguardless of whether or not we signed him this summer or next summer. it’s obvious that his agent wasn’t going to let him get less. as for childress, i want us to keep him but i think he’s going to blow up also. best case scenerio, he excepts a luke walton type contract and becomes our sixth man of the future.

it’s a good thing we have over 9 million in expirings coming off the books this year.

By I MUST WRITE

October 31, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

I just want to say that i have been reading this blog since late june right before the draft. Good stuff guyz(ando,ray,astro etc…)-Now to basketball:

I’ve been to 3 preseason games and the scrimmage at woodward academey. i do agree we should wait til june to sign j smoove-i need to see a more consistent jump shop and low post moves before we give him 65 million. Is it me or does j chillz look like a man on a mission. j chillz and horford have been our best players in the pre season. I think we should have taken care chillz this summer when he was a little cheaper 30-35 million. I like smooves game but i honestly believe he will be in another uniform next year…. if this happens i swear im turning in my season tickets…..

I will be at phillips arena on friday to support my boyz, here’s to a good season and a play off birth

yeaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!! go hawks!!!!!

p.s. trade salim -he doesnt fit and woody aient having it

By DevilInLaw

October 31, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

32 wins. You fellas are all smoking Sekou’s weed to think otherwise. This team still is without a PG or a Center. You can’t win without at least one of those in this league.

By Singindablues

October 31, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

It’s a good move to not sign Smoove now. He needs the motivation of playing for a big contract this year. Maturing but still too young to have mega dollars thrown at him without another year of improvement. Just hope he delivers and we can pay him if he does.

By Wedgie Evans

October 31, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

The over-under is 38, and I bet the over, so my prediction is 39 wins.

By Moose

October 31, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

The Hawks might be the most underrated team in the NBA. But that doesn’t mean they are great (like 55 wins would imply). That means they are decent, but everyone thinks they will be terrible. Don’t underestimate young lottery picks maturing in the post. Hawks surprise everyone and finish 45-37 for the three seed in the East (behind Cleveland and Orlando). Beat up on the overrated 6-seed Celtics in the first round before losing to Orlando in the second.

By Mike

October 31, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

The PG situation is improved,

They have Horford.

The Josh’s want new contracts…

All these are good signs, but they are not the key to the hawks win total this year.

Can Joe Johnson play out of this world ball more consistently, and without getting hurt, like he did in strectches last year? That’s the real question. If he sustains his play a little more your Hawks will surprise some folks.

If, and that’s a big IF, that happens 45-48 wins is possible.

If not, then just like last year, shortly after the all-star break everyone will be looking to ahead to next year, yet again.

By mikefresh

October 31, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this

im sayin tha hawks are going 44-38 and geting in the playoffs as a 6th seed. the hawks have one of the deepest benches in the east plus stephen a smith from espn said we might just have the rookie of the year on are team! the hawks could make some noise and i’ll be there friday to see what tha deal is but im tellin you if the hawks let josh smith go then im saying f*** tha hawks

By Neel

October 31, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Win total could be anywhere from 36-46 wins. I’m just not convinced we have the talent level of a majority of the improved teams in the east. I went to the exhibition game against the hornets and craig was once again on the sideline in a suit, blo wright wasn’t even at the game, and shelden looked as pathetic as last year. Horford does look like a beast though, and Marvin looks vastly improved in his ability to finish around the basket while his stroke is still as sound as it has been. If we stay healthy we should be in the 40 win area but Woodson and injuries are bound to get in the way. That’s just how it will probably end up for us hawks fans considering how terrible we have been for so long.

By MJ

October 31, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

I am going to go with around 30 wins. The Hawks play little to no D, don’t have a true point guard and very rarely spread the ball around on offense. The only games they’ll win are if a team is just to lazy to run with them or are playing the Hawks at the end of a series of back-to-back contests. They are young and talented, but I guess I just have to see it too believe it.

By Mike

October 31, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this

It’s too early in the season to talk about trades, unless it nets us that preverbal Big the Hawks so desperately need. Everyone prediction including mines hinges on the team staying injury free. With Speedy down and the shaky status of TLue it would behoove the Hawks to hold on to Salim. If for nothing else to let’em shine and increase his trade value.

My prediction is between 39 and 45 wins, which I think will get us in the playoff. If we don’t stumble out the gate, we win 40 with no problem.

For a franchised that’s strapped for cash, starved for fans, and in dire need of increased ticket sales, it’s inconceivable that they would just give away the two guys that can fills up the seats. I still think we resign Smoove and Chill.

GO HAWKS, ALL THE WAY TO THE PLAYOFF BRO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ntrigue

October 31, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Sekou The Hawks definitely have a chance at winning 55 games if everything falls in order. If their core group can find a way to stay healthy over the course of the season the Hawks are a legitimite contender for the playoffs as well as winning 45-55 games. I look for the Hawks to be a tuff opponent for any team on any given night as long the core group of Acie Law, Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams, Josh Smith, Al Horford, Zaza, T. Lue, J-Chills, Salim Stoudamire, Soloman Jones, Sheldon Williams manage to get playing time. This is a group of young athletic individuals that like to play an uptempo style of play. The only reason they have been stuggling the last 2 years is mainly due to injuries but not to forget poor coaching at times also has been a major factor but the main reason for our last couple of losing seasons is due to injuries to players in our core group. Our core group will get stronger as the season continues everybody look out because after the All-Star break barring that we dont have any major injuries our team will have had enough time to build the chemistry they need as a unit to compete and finally become a force to be rekoned with in the Eastern Division.

By Gil , NYC

October 31, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this

41 - 41 … While still a little wet behind the ears this team sure is deep and that will keep them in the hunt till the end lets hope it gets them in. If so I will be flyin in from NYC for the playoffs!!!! 21 4 life

By TJ

October 31, 2007 4:59 PM | Link to this

-It will be necessary to observe the Dallas/Cleveland game tonight, just to gauge what the Hawks should expect from them on Friday night. “Champ” above brought up their opening schedule before Thanksgiving (11 games). During that span, they play 7 2007 playoff teams along with a game against the Boston G.A.P. Depending on how serious they plan to be this year (I think they mean it this time), the Hawks will return from the Thanksgiving dinner table around .500 (5-7 wins). -By this time, Law IV, JJ, JSmoove, Horford, Pachulia should be the starting five, with the first substitutions being Childress and Marvin for Zaza and Acie, putting their quickest and most talented 5 on the floor. -Along with that, finding their pace will be key this year, so them playing against Phoenix next Wednesday (even if they lose) will be a key learning experience for them.

MY EXPECTATIONS: 1. Acie Law IV will establish himself as starting PG and a much needed vocal leader before 2008. 2. Horford will be a starter sooner and a consistent double-double threat that will win ROY because.. 3. The Hawks WILL make the playoffs (and Durant’s Sonics won’t). # of wins will be in the 42-47 range, the lower end stealing a 7th/8th spot, the upper end possibly winning the division (everyone except Charlotte is capable of winning the Southeast division this year). 4. Horford and Law IV (gotta say the “IV” b/c it’s cool) will start in the Rookie/Sophomore game, which the Rookies I think will win. 5. JJ and JSmoove will be at an All-Star level, but might not get to play simply because Gil, DWade, Lebron, KG, and Shaq/Howard are seemingly locked into the starting 5. Will the coaches/GMs take note of the Hawks’ improvement and reward them an All-Star appearance? 6. While I’m not expecting them to win a playoff series, their chances of winning a few games go up depending on their placement, whether or not they play Detroit/Boston or if they play Toronto/Cleveland/Chicago. 7. After the season is done, the Hawks sign JSmoove to a JJ-like extension and Childress to make a bit more than Speedy is undeservingly making right now 7a. Woodson’s future is less certain to me at the moment…

By ScoobySnacks

October 31, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this

I already know exactly how many the Hawks will win. The answer is 47. Would be 48, but they’ll get beat on an overtime buzzer beater in the last game of the regular season. Now that is a prediction! What’s this range stuff?

By rob

October 31, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

42 wins. 7th seed. Horford and Law play Big. JJ is JJ. JSmith puts up great stats but still blows a few games with his mental errors. Childress emerges into somewhat more than just the glue of the team. Mario saves a couple of games when the team is lethargic. ZAZA surprises. Salim becomes disgruntled with lack of PT. Marvin has a breakout year barring injuries. Lo Wright offers “wisdom” from the bench. T Lue gives us half a season…but a very productive half a season. Can’t wait for friday!

By SJH

October 31, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this

Hawks don’t have a PG, even if Speedy were healthy. Can’t see more than 40 wins with no PG. Those guys make a difference executing at the end of games. I say 35-38 wins. Improvement, but not playoffs. Maybe next year when Law IV has a year under his belt…

By cp

October 31, 2007 5:16 PM | Link to this

I see the Hawks winning around 40 games this year if they stay healthy and Woody finally gets it.. As far as Kobe.. I really dont understand why the Lakers just wont trade Bynum to the Pacers for Jermaine O Neil… I know he has some miles on him but he would make them a better team. I just dont see Bynum ever improving to the point where he would be some star.. KY I think you missed his SS point.. They guy actually stated talking to him after listening in on his call. I dont think SS got involved in the convo with the star pg on the other team. That is a big difference. He listened but didnt say anything.. The other guy listned and added his two cents…. I think this is the year for the Hawks.

By MsDee

October 31, 2007 6:07 PM | Link to this

47 wins because the Hawks never had a problem beating great teams like Dallas/Utah/even the Spurs..there problem was with the “easy” teams like Toronto/Bobcats/Orlando..and since we handled them in preseason pretty solid, I say the Hawks can “do what it do baby!!”

By TheRick

October 31, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this

While our friend predicting 55 wins is probably the same guy expecting the Falcons to win 8 of 9 and slip into the playoffs, I think your low end estimate of 38 may be a bit too low. I don’t have space to run the stats, but teams playing under the same system with the same corps roster have had marked success in their third year recently(see San Antonio late 90s). If the rooks can grow into contributing roles by the All-Star break, 42-48 wins isn’t unreasonable.

By MannyT

October 31, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

I am sure that all of these predictions are subject to the ripple effects of Kobe post LA. Sounds like you need at least 3 teams to get him traded. (If we were one of the extra teams in the mix, maybe there is a big center on the way before before Thanksgiving.)

I put in my 41-41 prediction earlier this week. It is nice to see more optimism here this week than in most of July-September combined.

Now if these optimists can come out and root for the home team, maybe we can do a little better. I’ll be there for most of the home games.

Let’s Go Hawks!

By TheRick

October 31, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Also, since there has only been one star point guard on the sidelines of our recent exhibition games, why don’t we just go ahead and say “Agent Zero said…..” and dispense with the vagueries shall we?

By mykhalc

October 31, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this

has CP stopped bein’ a ‘star’ PG now???

By nookah

October 31, 2007 8:28 PM | Link to this

My prediction - 4 wins.

We’ll sign Josh Smith, BK ain’t stupid!!!

Nuff respect!!!

By nookah

October 31, 2007 8:31 PM | Link to this

My prediction - 46 wins.

Josh Smith will be signed, BK ain’t stupid.

Nuff Respect!!!

Go Hawks!!!

By Wink from Lithonia

October 31, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Hawks are due, should get maybe 38 -40 wins. Based on coaching, pg play, and 4th quarter defensive rebounding. Improvement in these areas should be good for 10 wins, that were lost last year.

By GoHawks

October 31, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Don’t be a dick Sekou. The guy overhears you talking about the Hawks and wants to chime in… ?

Who cares. You should appreciate that considering your damn job.

We should win about 45 games IMO.

By Josh

October 31, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

put me down for 39 wins and just missing out on the playoffs with a 9th or 10th seed and next season with another good draft and signing a real free agent the Hawks will be playoff bound next year and for many years to come hopefully IMO

By TheRick

October 31, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

I think CP is definitely on his way to being a star, however, our game against the Hornets was in New Orleans and I’m highly doubtful Sekou went on the road for a pre-season game. Also, the ego in the quote is clearly Gibert.

By Adrian

October 31, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

Horford will win roy.speedy is good as gone maybe we can trade him and wright and salin and chill for gooden,wilcox,bynum,or another expendable big.of course we get other decent role players then go after varego.we give up chill because he marvin and smoove wont all sighn.we then have our pipen jordan and rodman.we need a pik for this draft ther are tons of great pgs in the draft.what is the basis pho. gets our pick.we could get lawson low as 20

By mykhalc

October 31, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

TheRick, i hear ya. just throwin’ it out there!!LOL

fellas, i MUST be dreamin’!!!is there REALLY a chance WOODSON starts ACIE???????? my desied lineup could actually hit the floor to start the season!!! who woulda thunk it????LOL

By Mike

October 31, 2007 9:57 PM | Link to this

Hey Hawks fans don’t get discourage by the Cleveland score. We all know Cleveland has only one superstar, without the ref calls they’re a different team.

That’s the best thing about the up coming season; the Hawks have never had the benefit of ref calls, so that bodes well for the Hawks also. If Stern have to let the ref call the game fair for all teams, Joe should have a great year.

GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By doc

October 31, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this

mavid agree thoguht areanas too.

clyde, my son showed up today for work at the soup kitchen wearing the fire billy shirt on, he stole it from me and had no cluea s to what it meant. been wearinf it all over he says.

36 to 39 wins is the range for wins. just think the team has too many if’s to start the season. could end up 6 games under .500 before the 11th game and that will be a huge hole to climb out of.

myk gald to see how pure your karma is becoming, it is like i can see right through you, using the ink on yourself?

atf, how about the man! tim is still huge and he finally got his due reward of 20 mil a year extention for 2 additional years. he will rank up there with russell when all is said and done for effective big men if they throw in about 2 more of those rings in the next 5 years.

By Pete

October 31, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

I am thinking the Hawks will win 42 games. The Spirit have really screwed up by not extending Josh Smith and Childress…….You don’t know what you got ‘til it is gone…….I know they will be restricted free agents which means they are going to pay through roof for J-Smoove.

By mykhalc

October 31, 2007 11:35 PM | Link to this

DOC, it’s tough livin’ like i do!!!!LOL

good game…SEA vs DEN…WILCOX is tough…

By AC Blow

October 31, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

They’ll get at least 40. If they don’t drop the dead weight it’ll be another 30! Young players can’t learn anything from old trade bait veterans. Slow Mo Claxton is Trash, Too Old for Braids Lue is Done, Arthritis Johnson is finished, and Lorenzen Gotta Feed the Kids Wright should go work as a Greeter at Wal Mart!! Send those Bums to the retirement home and lets play some ball!!!!

By fred b.

November 1, 2007 12:35 AM | Link to this

Not sure about the number of wins but if we stay healthy we should be in the playoffs. The schedule eases a bit after the first month so if the Hawks can somehow get to Dec. with 6-8 wins we’ll be in good shape!!!!

By ray

November 1, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

Myk, as soon as I read what the opening night lineup was gonna be, I swear I could hear a triumphant yell coming from somewhere in California. That couldn’t have been you, could it? Heh, heh, heh! First game of the season and you already get your wish. Damn you’re good….

I refuse to predict the number of wins. You can’t make me.

Oh geez…if Ando is reading this blog…he’s either pulling whatever hair he has right out of his head or in a lab somewhere feverishly mixing his doomicide elixir (and wondering if he has enough for the entire population) so that he can dump it all in our kool aid when we’re not looking. Heh heh!

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 2:56 AM | Link to this

BIG RAY, yep probably me bro!! but you mighta heard me screamin’ about that 5.6 shakin’ i felt the other nite too!!LOL made my a$$ sit up with my prayer beads bro!!!LOL

WOODSON’s still got some wiggle room to start AJ tho. ‘cause i haven’t read that ACIE and HORFORD were both in the startin’ 5 yet???!!!??? if they have been named PLEASE point a brotha to the link!!!LOL

RAY, you know that’s what i felt all along. they REALLY are the future of the team and still give the team the best shot of winnin’ right now. like i said in a previous post, AJ is not concerned with bein’ a starter, IMHO. but he does want his minutes. whereas ACIE said str8 up he was out to become the starter. they are just at different points in their careers. AJ needs to start the season in the role that best suits him and the team…off the bench in a backup role. it’s who he is. doesn’t make him any less valuable!! but it DOES set the roles right from the start!!!

i kinda see LUE as a DAMON JONES kinda player this year. put him in when the team needs that ‘something’ or late game specialist.

but my NBA LEAGUE PASS has already been tested and ready for openin’ nite!!! tho i did have to place a call to COMCAST and go WTF is goin’ on with my channels!!!LOL problems in the BAY AREA they said!! musta been that 5.6!!!!!

By Alex

November 1, 2007 3:02 AM | Link to this

43-39 We’ll make Playoffs, no doubt! With a bit of luck Hawks can even win 47-48 games this season…

By Edo River

November 1, 2007 4:29 AM | Link to this

Mr. Smith I was the guy that jumped in your business….. No, not really. I see our center position the Achilles heel of the team, because ZaZa will get hurt….so

48 wins If I’m wrong, a box of Japanese sweets to your office! (maybe I should buy them now? :-)

By hawks-4-life

November 1, 2007 8:08 AM | Link to this

Hmmm these are some very interesting predictions and admittingly im very bias to the hawks. However based on the conference and our division I’ll say the hawks will win 42-45 games.

By Clyde

November 1, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

Who’s going to the game Friday? The official FIRE BILLY AND WOODY t-shirt will be in full effect.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By Darrin "The Vent King"

November 1, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this

I swear the NBA hates the Hawks. How does the worst team in the league keep getting schedules like they do at the beginning of the year is unreal. Dallas, Detroit, New Jersey, Phoenix, Boston, then Washington to start off the season? Good grief, you’d think we made the Eastern Conference Finals with a record like that. By the time the first week is over, the Hawks will be 1-5 and all the optimism will be lost, everyone will get that losing feeling, and write them off AGAIN. I’m going to hang in there and overlook the first week or so and hope they came overcome that, but I know when Dallas comes in here tomorrow and probably beat us senseless, everyone is going to go “Oh well, same ole Hawks!” If they can get thru that first week and a half without losing faith, I think they’ll win 45 games at the most, hopefully a few more than that.

GO HAWKS!!

By hawks-4-life

November 1, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

ILL BE THERE IN SPIRIT (GERMANY)….BUT I WONT BE WEARING THE FIRE BILLY AND WOODY T-SHIRTS CAUSE WHAT IS DONE IS DONE TIL THE OFF SEASON SO, RIGHT NOW IM ROCKING THE “HAWKS IN FLIGHT” T-SHIRT…LOL

By hawks-4-life

November 1, 2007 9:41 AM | Link to this

DARREN THINK IF THE HAWKS WAS TO COME OUT OF THAT SCHEDULE WITH A “LETS SAY” 3-3 RECORD HOW DO YOU THINK THE TEAM WOULD FEEL OR HOW WOULD YOU FEEL. CHALLENGES IN LIFE IS WHAT MAKES AND BREAKS US AND IF THIS TEAM HAVE PLANS ON MAKING THE PLAYOFFS AS THEY DO, THIS IS JUST THE FIRST OBSTICLE.

By G Money

November 1, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

Guys, The reality is that it is going to be a tough year. The team is way better than last year, but so are a lot of other teams. I predict 7 wins in November if we’re lucky: Charlotte, Seattle, Milwaukee, Miami, Minnesota, Milwaukee, New Orleans and maybe DC. I went through the rest of the schedule just like that. It’s not easy. We might average 7 wins a month. If that is the case then we win 38 games. If we’re way better than we all think that they are now, then we win 41. Unfortunately, I don’t know that we will be able to sustain the momentum so the low could be 35. Sekou hits it on the head when he talks about the decision that Woody has to make regarding the guards. If Law has a year like CP or DW, we could be looking at the play-offs for real.

By hawks-4-life

November 1, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

DID ANYONE SEE DURANT IN ACTION…GIVEN ITS ONLY ONE GAME IM PLEASE WE HAVE AL AND NOT AN INJURED CENTER OR A CHUCKER…THANK GOD FOR PICK 3

By doc

November 1, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

darrin, at the end of last season i would have liked that schedule very much as we were very competitive with the wiz, celts and nets last year. unfortunately if they truly upgaded more than us as all we did was add by the draft then we could lose all three. i’ll be optimistic and say we have a very good chance of winning two to possibly three of those if we are as good as advertised by the kool aide gang. if not the team could be 0 for 6. again my concern is how much we upgraded by the draft and “maturity’ of the coaches and players, soon to be answered.

myk, you kind of remind me of an old beetles song, “i’m looking through you’, off of rubber soul i think. heh heh.

By Ryder

November 1, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

It’s too bad Atlanta wasn’t in the Kobe sweepstakes. Having him here with Horford, Law, and Marvin would make for a sick lineup in the East. Oh well.

I did see Durant in action and he is giong to have a rollercoaster season (lots of points but poor shooting and lots of turnovers) but will still win the ROY since he’s on tv all the time (no matter what Sekou says, exposure and media hype does go a long way in determining who wins these awards).

Law will be brought along slowly as he becomes the eventual leader on this team. Some teams are going to regret not drafting him that’s for sure.

As for the Hawks schedule, it does look very daunting early, and I do expect Clyde to be in full force should they struggle out the gate. I’m just waiting until the end of December and by that time the Hawks will show if they are for real or if they should bring in a new coaching staff.

By PopeVanIII

November 1, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Dude,

If you want people out of your phone conversations, don’t conduct them in a public place. I can guarantee you that his butting in wasn’t nearly as annoying to nearly as many people as your coffee-house cell-yell. Sheesh, what a warped perspective.

By hawks-4-life

November 1, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this

I think having Kobe in this line up instead of JJ would look good on paper but bad on the court due to the fact that our team is young and having Kobe dominate the ball wont teach them much at all. The team wont grow and team chemistry would be s**.

By Adam

November 1, 2007 11:51 AM | Link to this

Hey man, with the quality of sports fans in this city, i’ll take it the foolish optimism!! At least somebody cares!! Dont hate Sekou, dont hate…..

By ray

November 1, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

Kobe Bryant is the most dangerous assassin in the NBA right now. As a player, you can’t justly hate on him because he is just too dang good.

However, he isn’t the leader a team needs him to be. He may not ever be that leader. What he never realized is that Shaq was always there for that and it wasn’t Shaq’s time to step down yet. Apparently Lakers management didn’t understand that either. Shaq never really alienated his teammates. Kobe does. Kobe wants to be the man and wants no mentor. He always “makes a team better” on paper. Always. What he doesn’t do is make his teammates better. Therefore, in reality the team itself is no better, except that Bryant can bail you out on occasion by scoring incredible amounts of points. So you have the vicious circle that is now the LA Lakers. They don’t have any confidence as a team because they know anytime things don’t go well, Phil will tell Kobe to take over. He’ll score, and everybody will watch. And while the Lakers will get a “W” the team will go home thinking “well, Kobe won again tonight.” That’s no way to exist as a team.

What he needs is a steady, talented sidekick. Jordan needed Pippen. Really needed him, don’t care what anybody says. Pippen could do all the things that Jordan needed him to do..including some of the things Jordan couldn’t do as well: like guard Magic Johnson. Pippen could score and pass just fine, but made sure Jordan got his first. Pippen was the better defender, a lock-down artist.

This is the kind of guy Bryant needs. A guy who’s good enough to challenge him to be as great as he can be on both ends of the floor while co-existing and complimenting him as a player. Odom wasn’t and isn’t up to the task. On the Lakers team, nobody is because this is a mental as well as physical task. You have to be mentally tough enough to deal with Bryant but be able to back it up with basketball talent. If you back off of him, he’ll run you over. Ask Lamar Odom. Odom’s a good player and teammate, but you can’t tell me he doesn’t miss Elton Brand and Sam Cassell.

As far as Kobe himself goes, I don’t know what the answers are. He wants to control so much, that has to be part of the problem. It was stupid of Lakers managment to include a no-trade clause that allows the player of all freakin’ people to approve/disapprove of trade deals. Too much power, too much control. And now they are paying for it because Bryant only cares about himself. “I won’t go to a team that’s gutted or doesn’t have players left on it that I want.” He wants the cake, eat it too, and the chef/baker who made it, and the damn recipe.

I blame Lakers managment/ownership for this. Every player wants what Kobe wants…and in this case, has. But most are rooted in the reality of the business because their team’s management is smart enough to not let their personal opinion and feelings be too large a factor in business deals.

But I’m telling you, until Bryant finds that steady and unique teammate that helps stabilize Bryant’s world (and everybody else’s), Kobe will not win big again. Instead, he will be nearly as much a part of the problem as he is a solution.

By Adam

November 1, 2007 11:54 AM | Link to this

oh and ENOUGH with the Kobe ramblings please

to get him we’d have to give up at LEAST joe johnson, josh smith, al horford and a couple of draft picks. So now all you got is the superstar Kobe with a few moderately good unproven supporting players. Man, who does that sound like? oh yeah THE CURRENT LOS ANGELES LAKERS. How they been doin lately?

let him ROT out there! LA is off the map!

By porkswordq

November 1, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

I dunno about 55 wins, but if you expect privacy while speaking on a phone in public, I’ll have two shots of whatever you have in your drink.

Words to the wise and well-mannered: Shave and use the phone before you leave home. Homey.

By mavid

November 1, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

What is the deal with the Hawks needing a trade article that was posted on hawksquawk and realgm but cant be seen on the AJC page? How did it get out? And would Joe really make such comments 2 days before the start of the season?

Something fishy is going on…

By T.C

November 1, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

ive said it once and ill say it again.trade sheldon williams,lue and a 2nd round pick for marcus camby.then we can talk playoff basketball.that means horford can play his natural position and not be moved to center every now and then making him more comfortable and effective.with camby,j.smith and horford,can you say block party(stupid defense).

By Khao$

November 1, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Here is the link to Joe’s article:

http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/hawks/stories/2007/10/31/hawksmain_1102.html?cxntlid=inform

it is a real downer if you ask me. People have high hopes (albeit tempered). However, if you read between the lines, Joe is saying, he still doesn’t believe he has any help on the court, despite the growth of the Josh’s, Marvin, Shelden, etc. He sees these guys everyday in practice. Therefore, I think he’s in a good position to know what’s missing. Plus, it seems as if he’s saying veterens will make a team a winner and Billy boy refuses to go out and get any.

Before anyone gets mad at JJ for his comments (the way a few people did on other blogs), he doesn’t come off as selfish or demands a trade like Paul Piece or Kobe. However, I think this “rebuilding process” has come to a head for him and Billy Knight fed him a bunch of empty promises to get him to ATL. However JJ is too classy to say as much.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, i have to echo MAVID’s post. what’s the deal with that article??? it’s a real good read but why is it not posted on the AJC??? did someone steal your identity and make a bogus report?? or you just holdin’ out on us????

By mavid

November 1, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Any comments on this Sekou?

By mavid

November 1, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

It just seems weird for Joe to come out and say this stuff right as the season starts when he had all summer…

By mavid

November 1, 2007 1:30 PM | Link to this

And I agree it’s an interesting, well-done article. The timing just seems weird.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

my best guess is maybe that article was bein’ saved for friday…to coincide with openin’ nite!!!????!!!

By Darrin "The Vent King"

November 1, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

hawks for life- I really hope you’re right. Right now I would VERY MUCH settle for 3-3 through the 1st six games, but that’s asking alot of any team right now with that schedule. I’m not trying to cast doubt on the Hawks cause I want them to do it, but basically I’m not jumping ship if that doesn’t happen because I’m more of a realist than most homer fans like the one Sekou was talking about. The majority of Atlantans will bail by the end of next week I guarantee it, but once we get through that first stretch which is a tough one, we can be okay, just got to get on a roll.

GO HAWKS!!

By MW

November 1, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

I foresee 38-40 wins and a 7 or 8 seed in the East…Still need Acie Law to develop to push it towards 50 wins.

Also, Sekou, I would have said something to you for being on the cell phone while you are in line…You didn’t want to hear what the over-enthusiastic fan had to say and I guarantee that noone else in line wanted to hear your conversation either….

By mavid

November 1, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

lol at people giving Sekou crap about the phone conversation deal

By I MUST RIGHT

November 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

What is so wrong with what joe said? I’ll tell what- nothing, I have been saying the same thing since late june.I do question the timing though.Horford is gonna be a beast but lets face it…. he is a rookie and he is only 6’9. I felt like we should have signed Darko-he is a legit young 7 footer and he combines good defense with decent offensive skills. Jamal magloire or camby could have helped us alot, allowing horford to beast his way through the power forwrd ranks and allowing zaza to come in off the bench. JJ was voicing his frustration … can u blame him? Im sure Billy sold this man a dream 2 yrs ago. 29 hours and counting til tip off- letz shock the world fellas…. go hawks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By I MUST RIGHT

November 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

What is so wrong with what joe said? I’ll tell what- nothing, I have been saying the same thing since late june.I do question the timing though.Horford is gonna be a beast but lets face it…. he is a rookie and he is only 6’9. I felt like we should have signed Darko-he is a legit young 7 footer and he combines good defense with decent offensive skills. Jamal magloire or camby could have helped us alot, allowing horford to beast his way through the power forwrd ranks and allowing zaza to come in off the bench. JJ was voicing his frustration … can u blame him? Im sure Billy sold this man a dream 2 yrs ago. 29 hours and counting til tip off- letz shock the world fellas…. go hawks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By BigMan

November 1, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Call Jerry Buss and see if they’ll pick up these scrubs for Kobe!

By D Smith

November 1, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

48-34, 4th in the east. Marvin Williams is a more consistent jump shooter. Josh Smith is more polished in all facets of the game (if he tries to shoot too much it may hurt the team). Joe Johnson is one of the 10 best players in the league because he can shoot, dribble, pass, penetrate, and most important , play D. Al Horford and Shelden Williams will provide the beef, rebounding, and toughness that was lacking last year. Childress and ZaZa will offer scoring punch where needed and Acie Law will be a great rookie PG that will finish 3rd in rookie voting. Don’t forget about Stoudamire, who will offer a few high scoring games and shooting that will open up the middle for guys like Childress, Horford, and ZaZa. The Hawks are better than a lot of people think because Woodson, although boring, has taught these kids the game instead of just letting them play and since this game is majority mental, their success will multiply exponentially.

By HawksBeat

November 1, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this

Poorly played on the Joe article, Sekou. Bad timing. My full thoughts Link: here

By mavid

November 1, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I don’t disagree with anything Joe said. As many have said tho, the timing is very questionable.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

HawksBeat, your article painted a dimmer read on JJ’s interview more than anythin’ than JJ actually was quoted as sayin’!!!…IMHO i agree the timin’ coulda been better/different tho…

By doc

November 1, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

WHAT?

joe cant agree with what the faithful bloggers have been saying for the last three seasons ever since the broken atlanta spirit came on the scene. get real if anyone wants to get upset with the guy for stating the obvious that has been echoed more than once before his comment by his coach.

By ITL

November 1, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

No Sekou, theres nothing worse than someone standing in line talking on his cell phone like he is someone important. No one cares to hear your conversation or to hear you talking (except maybe you). So if you don’t want someone interrupting your cell call, then do yourself and everyone else a favor and take it in private….”Homey”

By T.C

November 1, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

i guess no one is buying the sheldon williams,lue,and 2nd round pick trade.(for m.camby)but truth is, the hawks is not a championship caliber team so who cares how many games they win.

By mavid

November 1, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Doc, I do agree with you. Joe basically stated the obvious. But my thing is, why now? Why 2 days before we open against one of the toughest teams in the league?

He is basically saying in so many words: “We’re alright I guess, but I play with these guys all the time, and trust me, we need help.”

I mean, damn, talk about a downer. What do you think Marvin or Smoove takes from that?

Sekou, Michigan is my team too, so I’ll put it like this. What if Henne had come out in the week before the App. St. disaster and said: “You know, we’re not bad, but I really wish we had done a better job shoring up our defense. We couldve done a lot better job recruiting there. I mean, come on, at least give me a fighting chance by getting better D recruits.”

It might have been true. But did the young D players need to hear it? (In hindsite, maybe it wouldve lit a fire under their a*?)

By mavid

November 1, 2007 3:54 PM | Link to this

TC, Id love that trade, but it takes 2 to tango and there is no way Denver does it. Camby is too important to them.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, in response to your other article, let’s hope WOODSON LET’S the REAL PG stand-up!! the players KNOW!!! (also as you alluded to in the article) WOODSON’s selection, to me, will be a clear indication of how he is approachin’ the season!! same ole same ole????!!! or clearly playin’ the players that give the team the best chance…regardless of their rookie status. he wouldn’t sit ODEN nor DURANT, right!!!??? so HORFORD and ACIE bring EXACTLY the kinda NEEDS and SKILLS to this team that the top 2 picks bring to theirs!!! and NOBODY currently on the HAWKS roster brings what the 2 rooks do…PERIOD!!!! do right and smart thing WOODSON…start the rooks!!!!

By doc

November 1, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

WHAT?

joe cant agree with what the faithful bloggers have been saying for the last three seasons ever since the broken atlanta spirit came on the scene. get real if anyone wants to get upset with the guy for stating the obvious that has been echoed more than once before his comment by his coach.

By doc

November 1, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

mavid, do you NOT think there are about 15 guys on the team asking the same durn thing? maybe it is his new voice for leadership coming out and maybe it will mean he has a larger voice in the organization and gains more respect from his brothers in the locker room.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

guess we know why JJ hasn’t shown the smile much lately….

By david

November 1, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

The Hawks look ready. They drafted 2 good picks in Acie Law and Al Horford. Add them in with JJ, Josh “i don’t think i’m ready to come down” Smith, Marvin “my game is too much for you punks” Williams and the rest of the guys and i think the Hawks have a chance to win about 40 games this year (depending on health issues. Maybe not the playoffs this year but with this year under their belt next year they will strike…..LIKE HAWKS!

By mavid

November 1, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

Doc, I’m trying to not read too much into it. You’re right. It could be that ALL the guys are hoping for a change to make them more of a legit team. Who can blame them? We’ve all wanted the same thing.

It was the timing of him saying it that didnt sit right with me. It just seems like a day or two before the regular season starts (against some very difficult teams), he is questioning the ability of the currently-assembled team to compete. Not exactly what you wanna hear at this point in time (when everything is still in front of us). Let us at least lose some games first!

By D Smith

November 1, 2007 4:33 PM | Link to this

C’mon TC wake up, what idiot would make that trade? Lets see Denver is excited about getting sheldon and lue and a second round pick (who probably wont make the team) for their STARTING center who led the LEAGUE in shot blocking. Before you think up a trade, think about both sides before telling everybody.

By Omnihawk

November 1, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Everything Joe said is true, and I don’t have a problem with the timing either. With all due respect, most people don’t follow the Hawks very closely. If he had made that statement during the offseason, all of 50 bloggers might have even seen the article. If you are really wanting results, what better time then when your team is finally getting a little attention.

By I MUST WRITE

November 1, 2007 4:52 PM | Link to this

T.C.-come on man sheldon and lue for Camby- a shot blocking force(when healthy). Just for the record die hard hawks fans care how many games we win. This is’nt a championship organization yet, there are some changes that need to be made, players and management before that happens-but until then itz ride or die with the home team no matter what…. TC, you are from out of town ha?

By mavid

November 1, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

I mean, first we learn that our star player hasn’t cracked a smile all preseason. Now we learn that he doesn’t have much confidence in our ability to compete for a playoff spot.

Ouch Sekou, ouch.

At the same time, I’d also like to see BK do something to balance this roster out. Something tells me that JO could be had, if we want to take that injury risk.

By randy

November 1, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this

Before preseason i figured 38-40 wins. But I will say 42-40 and a 7th round playoff spot.

And this Josh Smith thing is going to make me sick. If the Hawks let this guy get away, the Hawks will be the laugh of the league and all the fans will go away; I guarantee they will lose so much money in attendance and TV audience that they would be absolutely insane not to lock this guy up.

By High Pockets

November 1, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this

I like you Sekou and read your column/blog often, but you sound foolish and arrogant reacting to the guy who responded PUBLICLY to your very PUBLIC cell phone call. Take your calls in a private space or get off your high horse in public spaces.

Go Hawks!

By Steve T

November 1, 2007 5:46 PM | Link to this

I think you can add at least 10 more games to last season total. They lost 10 or more by not closing out the 4th. I do not see that happening this year.

I really do believe that they can win close to 50 if the rookies play very well.

By cp

November 1, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this

Im not mad at Joe at all . I think the majority of us have been questioning the moves or lack of moves by BK for the past few years. The timing might be bad but at least he is starting to speak up more rather than holding everything in.

By Ramon

November 1, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

If this is what JJ wants, why not bring up Jermaine O’Neal’s name in discussion. He’s clearly the most likely big man to be traded this season. If Marvin, Sheldon, and Lue could bring O’Neal to the Hawks, then you’d be looking at a wonderful starting line-up.

Law (AJ), JJ, Smoove, Horford, and O’Neal. And Childress, Salim, and Zaza would still be coming off of the bench.

Or even possibly Marvin, Zaza, and AJ/Lue would be enough to make the deal happen. Then the Hawks would have three potential all-stars this year, and four for years to come (Horford). I know J O’neal has had injury problems a few seasons, but he’s a baller, and has been healthy for a good while now. Besides theres NO way the Hawks can extend Childress, Smoove AND Marvin back to back years.

By Ramon

November 1, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

By the way CP, I don’t think it has been BK who hasn’t pulled the trigger. Actually, I think he’s wanted to pull the trigger on a few deals, but owners wouldn’t allow him to. And in terms of free agents, you cant MAKE any one come here if they don’t really want to. So for big name acquisitions you’re pretty much stuck left with trades as the only option.

By cp

November 1, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

Ramon I understand that but BK blew a lot of chances last year. Drafting Sheldon when a guy like Roy was still on the board. It’s like when he has peices he is scared to use them to aquire more talent but that is just my opinion. We have a few expiring contracts but I doubt BK does anything with them. It might be the spirit holding him back but sometimes it seems as if BK is just clueless. We could make another blog using nothing but BK eff ups.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 6:43 PM | Link to this

fellas, unless WOODSON has a brain freeze (likely) or does a 180 (unlikely), SALIM is N/A. there is no way he should even be mentioned along with CHILS, regardin’ depth off the bench!!! he needs to be packaged so he can have a chance to prove himself NBA ready and WOODSON wrong. plus bring the team somebody that WILL see the court!!! as it stands now, MARIO WEST will see the court before SALIM…IMHO!!!!

By Ramon

November 1, 2007 6:56 PM | Link to this

Drafting Sheldon was a terrible mistake. But remember there were 7 other GMs who also wish they would’ve drafted Roy instead. BK was looking at helping the interior defense of the Hawks last year. And STATISTICALLY Sheldon had the best resume on defense. But you’re right he turned out not worthy of a top 10 pick (much less a top 5 lol). But all GMs make terrible picks at time.

For instance, I bet anything that Krause, the very man who put together teams that won 6 rings, wishes he didn’t trade Elton Brand for an extra draft pick to get a ‘baby’ Bull.

I’m merely saying we don’t know what are happening behind close doors. And I truly believe BK sees what this team needs and doesn’t, and ownership prevents him. Because if you remember, that season, interior defense was the number one killer. Even Lue (when healthy) is better than a third of the starting point guards in the league. But they needed to have stable play down low. Because with Harrington and Laettner at 4, a team is bound to get killed inside.

But you’re right he has made some bad decisions, but I think that is the main one. And remember, he did attempt to sign Cassell BEFORE settling for Speedy.

By mavid

November 1, 2007 7:25 PM | Link to this

Just to reinforce my stance. I ENTIRELY agree with what Joe is saying. We do need some more proven players. My only issue was the TIMING. Saying it right now just didnt make sense to me.

By G Money

November 1, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this

Guys, I NEED SOME HELP! Since when did Horford shrink to 6-9? Since when did Al Jefferson, the big many have been raving about grow to 6-11? The reality is that Horford can play the center position and is the same height as nearly half of the centers in the league. And if he isn’t as tall, he’s certainly more athletic or as tall as half. Do the math. I’m not going to discount that he played power forward in college. However, players have, can and will continue to change positions in this league if team needs and physical gifts allow such. If you look at how many of the successful teams in this league play the center position, they play it with what you would call athletic power forwards. I dare anyone to say that Amare Stoudemire is a “big” in the sense that you guys talk about. Marcus Camby has been ranted about. Look at his weight and height. I just need some help. Can I get any?

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 9:31 PM | Link to this

G Money, if they listed HORFORD at his 6’10” height then it WOULD NOT be as easy to bash BK!!! gotta shrink him to 6’9” to keep the BK BASH alive and kickin’!!!!LOL (yeah i know i’m bringin’ this one on myself!!)LOL

By ray

November 1, 2007 9:35 PM | Link to this

I really don’t see what the deal is with what Joe Johnson had to say. He’s right and coincidentally, a large percentage of people on this blog have said the same thing. And what has our timing looked like, eh?

Speaking of the timing of his statements…Think about it a little harder. Joe probably waited all summer to see if the people he’s working for (owners/gm) were going to do THEIR JOB. You know, the job they are supposed to be doing to make this team better. The job Billy told JJ they’d do when they were trying to get him signed. The job they still haven’t done!

JJ waited until the summer was over. He waited until the deadline to lock up the two Joshes was over. He waited and waited. And he’s not seeing anything from management or ownership to indicate that they are doing all they can or the best they can to deliver on their end. So yeah, he waited until now. Did we forget that it was until midnight of October 31st that the team had to sign either or both of the Joshes? Now it’s November 1st. Now Joe has no idea if he’ll even have those two guys in the stable to run with. Think about that!

* Thanks to the knowledge of some of you other bloggers, I actually understand better than I did before why Childress and Smith weren’t signed.* I’m still not in perfect agreement with it. However, try to look at this from JJ’s point of view.

I say his timing couldn’t be better. AGAIN, He actually waited past the last possible minute to see if management would do ANYTHING, ANYTHING AT ALL to give him some help or hope or reason to believe that things were actually going to be better, besides the f#@ing draft*. And when they didn’t…he voiced his concern.

With all the crap ownership pulled, I cannot believe people are questioning JJ’s “timing.” He is most certainly NOT the one who has bad timing here. NOT EVEN CLOSE.

And as Doc so smartly pointed out: do you really think other players haven’t asked the same thing??!

You want to complain about JJ’s timing? Go to LA and you’ll have a reason to complain! Meet this dude named Kobe, who not only can’t stand to share the spotlight with one of the greatest players and teammates (just ask DWade about how good of a teammate Shaq is) the league has known, but then expects managment to build from scratch around him when he’s not shown that he can lead a team. Oh he can play, he can score, he can dominate. But he can’t lead.

For the record, it makes no damn sense to have Kobe here when we’d HAVE to trade JJ, and the best half of the roster. Kobe can’t get over the hump with a balanced roster and a bonafide young center. All he needs is a steady pg. He has everything else. What the hell good could he do here with no decent center, a gutted roster, and two old pgs (assuming we didn’t get to keep Law)?!

By HB Ando

November 1, 2007 9:37 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I think you look fabulous on your high horse. Don’t go changing to try and please me…..

Ray, the only folks who’ll be dumping in your kool-aid are the Hawks, if you think they’re making the playoffs.

Range? That’s what I have on my jumper, and it’s got no place in predictions.

36, like I been sayin’ for a month.

All this consternation over the Hawks not signing Josh to an extension. Whatever. Is anyone else paying attention? The only folks who locked guys down are Dallas, with Harris, which is Cuban’s MO, Minny, with Al Jefferson, because, after trading Garnett for him, they HAVE to, and, at $65 million, he’s going to look like a bargain this summer, and Sacramento, with Martin. And the Sac owners have more money than….well, you know.

Look around. Okafor, Gordon, Igoudala, Deng, Biedrins, and our two Josh’s. None of them were signed early. And that’s smart business. Because, if you haven’t noticed, nobody in the NBA projects to have max-contract cap space next summer. And all the current teams, of these guys, have the right to match.

One simply has to look at what occurred with Pavlovic and Andy V., in Cleveland, to know that it’s a buyer’s market for restricted free agents. Nobody has any cap. And nobody will tie up what cap they do have to simply watch the home team match.

It’s much more in the favor of the teams, to play wait and see. Guys without long-term deals are now motivated to show what they’re worth. And the worst case scenarios, for their current teams? Match, or set up a sign-and-trade. They either have market value, or they don’t. No sweat. And nothing personal.

Couple of Hoopshype tidbits I ran across today:

“So the Warriors aren’t picking up the third-year option on center Patrick O’Bryant, which is both surprising and not. Clearly, they want another year to evaluate him and aren’t compelled to commit $2.37 million (factoring in raises and such) to an unproven O’Bryant. Still, 7-footers with potential are usually handy to have around, if only as a trade chip, so we’ll see how this works out for both sides. San Francisco Chronicle / October 31”

Thoughts? This is less of an indictment on O’Bryant, than a bad match between the player, and his team’s head coach and style of play. We DO NOT have a first rounder, next year. So what the Hawks should be doing, right now, since O’Bryant WILL be unrestricted next summer, is call his agent and let him know that there’s a place for him (comes with a wide open slot at the center position).

Next:

“Instead, Riley pointed out what he believes was a bit of unfair scheduling. Last season, the Heat received their championship rings before playing the Bulls, who spoiled the ring ceremony with a 42-point victory. ”They sent our most bitter rival for ring ceremony night, and San Antonio got, basically, the worst team in the league,” Riley said, half-jokingly, about the Trail Blazers, who used the first pick in the draft on center Greg Oden, who is injured. “Thank you [commissioner] David [Stern]. We got the shark eater who wanted us badly. I would have liked to have seen maybe Atlanta or somebody.” Miami Herald”

I know this reeks of classic Riley paranoid, but isn’t some what telling that he chose to use Atlanta as his preferred patsy?

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 9:53 PM | Link to this

KOBE KARMA!!!!HAHAHA he’s a team killa!!!!!

By HB Ando

November 1, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this

Kobe, here, is silly. He has the only no-trade contract in the NBA.

Any questions?

By ray

November 1, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this

Ando, poking fun at you. But for the record, I never said I thought they’d make the playoffs. I said it was possible, although not probable, and that I was hoping for it to happen as long as it didn’t result in ownership/managment taking that to mean that no further roster moves were needed.

I do believe I addressed as much in a post that was made directly to you…

By ray

November 1, 2007 10:29 PM | Link to this

Man am I glad that got nixed. I didn’t want to see that happen to my Bulls. The Kobe trade would’ve killed all progress and flexibility in Chicago. A no-trade clause and a gutted team when there was a good coach, young talent, and everything else you’d want, including the ability to go out and get what you need since the pieces are there to play with.

Ando, I think it’s obvious that Kobe coming here is an example of change for the simple stupid sake of change. Like I said, he had a better setup roster and coach-wise there than he could ever hope for here. It would be as stupid for him as it would be for us…

By HB Ando

November 1, 2007 10:35 PM | Link to this

Ray, I’m hurt. You know my skin is paper thin. I wasn’t sayin’ nothing but that I think the FRANCHISE is your most-likely candidate, for kool-aid spiking.

I get a sense of deja vu, reading all these optimistic projections. Can’t really pinpoint where, exactly, I’ve felt this before.

Oh, now I remember. It was last year, at this exact time.

Well, someone did point out that Toronto made a 20-game leap. ‘Course they picked up Ford and Bargnani, and had Bosh. So, maybe, the addition of Law and Horford will result in a 10+ win leap.

I just don’t see how.

By mykhalc

November 1, 2007 10:38 PM | Link to this

BIG RAY, PAXTON is way tooooo smart of a GM to give his contender away!!! you summed it up best in your last post bro.

there’s a new phrase goin’ ‘round…KOBE KARMA IS A KILLA!!!!LOL (DOC, i’m tryin’ to stop man…really…ok maybe not)LOL

NBA LEAGUE PASS is dialed in a ready for openin’ nite!! GO YOUNG GUNS!!! and smile JJ!!!! it’s all good!!!

By Samuel

November 1, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

Kevin Durant is the Truth.

By ray

November 1, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Oh I know, Ando. I just have to take my shots at the teflon don when I can, ya know? Just don’t want you thinking I’m on a spiked-punch high when talking to ya. Of course, you could have a look at my cyber-pupils to see if they’re dilated, heh heh!

Speaking of spiking the juice, look at Mark Bradley’s column/blog. On second thought, don’t. Rather, have a look at what Gearon had to say. Interesting, but hardly unexpected, as I’m sure you’ll say as well. Talk about eggs and bacon to go with that waffle…ah, whatever. I’m not paying attention to what any owners have to say until they make a move. Actions speaking louder than words could hardly be more relevant than it is here…

I dig what you’re saying about O’bryant. It’s possible that a pickup like that could turn out better than the one Billy made with Pachulia. Possible. Don’t know yet. But I’d much rather we find out this way than wonder about it, then watch it happen on another team. Not to mention, it’s a better risk than picking up another version of Lo Wright, which I can see Billy doing (considering what his idea of shoring up the middle consists of).

By ray

November 2, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I’m enjoying the heck out of this Suns/Sonics game. Neither Durant nor Green are having issues going after the opposing team. Niiiice.

By mred1943

November 2, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

sekou have any of the bk haters noticed that mike conley is the #3 pg on memphis depth chart while AC is apossible starter for the hawks

By A Thinking Fan

November 2, 2007 6:45 AM | Link to this

Doc That Nash guy is still up to his old tricks too this season! DD!

By Dan

November 2, 2007 8:34 AM | Link to this

The HAWKS will sign 2 of the 3 young centers below next season. DeSagana Diop, Kwame Brown and Patrick O’Bryant

By G Money

November 2, 2007 9:44 AM | Link to this

With the possible exception of Diop, since when did these guys become upgrades over what we already have? Puleez.

By Astro Joe

November 2, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Ando, I agree that we should make that early call to POB’s agent. But I personally doubt that he could displace either Zaza or Horford this year (or next). I’d bring him in a as a legit “center-in-development” project. But I’d place calls to Diop and Kwame’s agents first (assuming the price is very, very reasonable). And if Mbenga goes overseas as some have suggested, we should monitor his progress as well.

Here’s one to file away for next off-season… Josh Smith in a S&T for Biedrins. RFA traded for RFA. That assumes Boozer has not devoured Biedrins by next summer.

By I.MUS WRITE

November 2, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Next summer letz sign Kwame Brown. I know there are questions about his lack of b-ball IQ, but nevermind that the man is a real goon in the paint at 6’11 280. A rotation of ZaZa and Kwame would take care of the center situation.Then pick up a free agent 2 gaurd to come off the bench and we would be looking at atleast a 5-6 seed in the playoffs next year.

By doc

November 2, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this

i see a lot has been going down. atf, hadnt even had time to check the scores from last night.

fun tango tween ray and ando.

well we are about to get ready to go into the NBA SEASON on an nhl budget. heh heh, now lets us see how far it gets us.

yes, it is a bellweather year for the hawks as management will have to stop the talk of “you find a big if you can cause we sure cant” as bernie is just quoted on 680 this am. yes, we could find you one if you could just stretch the budget into the nba league intead of playing the next best cheap thing to the hornets guy and the clippers owner as well or pretending the nba budget is the same as the nhl. can you imagine how sorry they would be if the thrashers had to compete at 75% of what the other guy has in his budget and that was conservative an estimate.

the bellweather is how they treat their commodities this summer as trade bait to aquire more draft picks or to sign these guys and get someone to go along with them. for any of you with mavid on his concerns of poor timing and how it might affect this tender team, i assure you if you think these guys dont sit around and discuss who would be a good fit to add to this team you are in a huge illusion of your own making. these guys want to compete, get paid and be a contender and some of that means paying up. if they dont several guys walk out the door unless the nba is about to really come down in what it pays and since duncan just got 20 mil i guess that isnt quite the big picture.