Hawks

By Scott

February 16, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Pathetic suck up to your boy Billy Knight Sekou. He has, still, and always will be a pitiful excuse for a general manager. Don’t see why he had to also give up a draft pick, and now we are even smaller than we were before. He could have signed DJ Mbenga for the minimum, but passed. We are still small and have no depth. We still have Speedy. And we still dont and NEVER will have Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Brandon Roy, Rudy Gay, Andre Igudala, etc. Knight and Atlanta Spirit, you all are brutal.

By mississippi

February 16, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

SS-

I is obvious from the writing how excited you are about this deal. It looks like we all get to watch this team go somewhere. BK has been slow, very slow, but he has put these pieces together. They are good pieces and it seems like now we are ready to make a run.

By Aaron

February 16, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

Any word/guesses on how the Hawks will fill the rest of the roster? Is another trade in the works? Is Childress a goner for sure now? Will any of the expirings sent to Sacramento return in 30 days?

LOL, gotta keep ya’ working. ;)

By Ced Ced

February 16, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are deffinetly a top team, ON PAPER, now. They have to jell with Mike now and continue to get better as a team. It was great that they kept all of our big hitters, even though I hate to see Anthony go because he helped light a fire and get us going earlier. The key with Mike is hes a vet, just like Tyrone and Anthony, but he is more talented and teams will respect his game, which should open things up.

By kwooden1

February 16, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

I will say this about BK, he’s last draft and two trades have been positive. They may not make-up for the mistakes, but they give this team hope. I think they had enough before to make the Playoffs before, now I believe (barring injury) it will be a disappointment if they don’t make the Playoffs. Sheldon, Lue, Johnson and a 2nd for Bibby is a very good move, because more than anything else it fits the coaching style of Woodson. I don’t agree with most of the things that Woodson does, but its pretty clear he works best with a short bench and a good jump-shooting/pick and roll PG. (That’s definitely what Bibby is!) I don’t like losing the second round pick, but keeping all the core guys is worth the Pick.

GO HAWKS!!

By kwooden1

February 16, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

I will say this about BK, he’s last draft and two trades have been positive. They may not make-up for the mistakes, but they give this team hope. I think they had enough before to make the Playoffs before, now I believe (barring injury) it will be a disappointment if they don’t make the Playoffs. Sheldon, Lue, Johnson and a 2nd for Bibby is a very good move, because more than anything else it fits the coaching style of Woodson. I don’t agree with most of the things that Woodson does, but its pretty clear he works best with a short bench and a good jump-shooting/pick and roll PG. (That’s definitely what Bibby is!) I don’t like losing the second round pick, but keeping all the core guys is worth the Pick.

GO HAWKS!!

By Greg

February 16, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Now Scott I’m not the biggest BK fan, but you got to give the man props for this deal. Yeah we don’t have CP3, BROY, or DWILL, but baby we got Josh Smith, Al Horford, JJ, and now Bibby these are all BK moves that you can not deny. Then we still have enough expiring contracts to deal this summer if necessary to land a big name. I know it’s hard, but give credit where it is due.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 16, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

I must not have been paying attention, but I missed the part somewhere along the line where DJ Mbenga became a valuable asset to an NBA team.

Knight still sucks, but this was an outstanding trade. I think we can fairly bump him up from a D to a C- for his Hawks career now.

By bobbo

February 16, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

How can anyone complain about this trade…at least in Atlanta? This is grand theft NBA.

Getting rid of AJ is also addition by subtraction as anyone who knows his locker room reputation can tell you (complain, complain, complain). Lue and Wright are done. Williams was a mistake now corrected.

By mavid

February 16, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Whassup Yall

I havent been posting much lately (too busy with work), but I gotta say I love this trade. Whenever you get a very good NBA player without giving up real talent in exchange, you’re doing well.

Finally, someone who can hit 3s, handle the ball, step up in the clutch, and get our young guys the ball.

Joe is gonna play MUCHHHHH better in the 2nd half with Bibby next to him. MUCH BETTER.

Acie is gonna thrive in a more consistent backup role. Bibby seems like a good mentor.

This isn’t the permanent answer, but it is a start.

The ownership and BK have showed us they can deal! Thank god.

By kdog

February 16, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

thank,god! the landlord has a new zipcode,finally! billy you got it right

By Astro Joe

February 16, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

mykhalc, most blockbuster trades require a very large expiring deal (or a boatload of draft picks). Bibby’s $14M (or somewhere in that neighborhood) could net us a bigger fish during next year’s trade deadline. I was also attempting to say that Lo and Shelden were 2 Hawks who were willing to put a shoulder on someone to set a pick. Horford, obviously, is willing to play physical as well. We need to make sure that if he is serving that role more frequently to free Bibby, that he doesn’t get called for too many offensive fouls (or moving picks).

Still very interested in seeing how we grow our roster beyond the 10 healthy players we currently have. I’m hoping for another physical big (Dale Davis) and a quality 3rd PG (Mike Wilks?). Can Ruben Patterson be trusted?

This should actually result in more playing time for Acie. Woody should go with a 3 guard rotation of Bibby, JJ & Acie. And we can bring Acie along much like Dallas did with Devin Harris.

Sekou, I wish I could share your optimism. But I’m thrilled something was done, even if I don’t view Bibby as the baller like you. He’s a helluva lot better than Lue, AJ, Shelden or Lo.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 16, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Glad to know that nothing short of the implosion of the world would satisfy Scott and his legion of haters. I give it up when it’s due, Scott. I’ve raged against the Hawks machine plenty of times. But they pulled off a nice deal this time, so they get the love just like they should get the hate.

That 13th roster spot becomes mighty interesting. The Hawks could go a number of different ways (D-Leaguer, veteran looking for a job a la Earl Boykin, semi-retired vet like PJ Brown). There’s no telling.

They have a couple days to work it out, so we’ll see. I don’t know that it really matters who they pick up, so long as the guy can actually play.

By Nate ArchiBALL

February 16, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Great move Billy. This will take a lot of pressure off Joe Johnson. Now if you can move ZaZa and Salim for a serviceable defensive big man…….we might really have something.

By Professor

February 16, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Is Woodson still coming back after the allstar break? I will wait to pass judgement. Its a good trade on paper. I think another move has to be in the works though unless we are going to sign some fillers to fill out the squad.

By LA Hawk

February 16, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

I like this deal. Gotta give it up (even if it’s just a little) to BK. But to say we got Bibby for next to nothing is revisionist history. Even though Shelden didn’t work out here he still was a NUMBER 5 pick…just cuz BK made one of the worst lottery selections ever shouldn’t belittle the fact that it was the FIFTH pick overall. This deal is a nice little cleanup job…now let’s see what Bibby has left in the tank.

By Mike

February 16, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Sekou although we know you were a bit over zealous with your accolades for Bibby. Your right about one thing, “THIS WAS A HELLUVA TRADE FOR THE HAWKS.” This guy is a winner, say what you want about his injuries, he’s the perfect veteran point guard for this team.

This guy is a proven winner that shows up big in big games. You can’t ask for any more than that for what we traded.

I’m feeling kind of giddy because my boy Salim wasn’t traded. But I still think another a deal will be made for a Big involving Salim, Zaza, and one of the young guns. Hey if not may be Woodson finally gives this kid chance.

GREAT TRADE GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By richbrave

February 16, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Dark Ryder:

March 17th. Throw down dude. See you on the hardwood. Bibby and Areanas. Hammer time - can’t touch this. Gotta’ be there.

By Glenn

February 16, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

I’m surprised that the Hawks were able to trade for a guy that will take up 14 mil. next year . I thought that Belkin situation would prevent that . That being said I hope Bibby can stay healthy . That guy always seems to be injured . He is a big upgrade though thats not saying alot .I am on the good to see Sheldon go bandwagon as well . He just played Sloooow . The key though will be whether Bibby can stay healthy . I really hope so .

By DarkRyder

February 16, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

Bibby understands that he will have to pick up his game as well. He is set up for a big payday should he become the same type of catalyst he was during the Kings’ playoff runs a few years back.

What many of you are missing (Scott) is that we wouldn’t know if those players BK apparently missed out on would’ve been good anyway working in Woodson’s system. Besides, Deron Williams is the only one who has led his team anywhere. What has Rudy Gay done in the NBA? Does Mbenga even still play in the league?

Anyway, Astro Joe I believe that Mario West will get more playing time to offset Bibby and Acie in case they need someone for garbage minutes. I’m sure the dealing isn’t done yet, as you said in the last blog that teams around the league now believe BK is serious about building a winning team in spite of the ASG. They need to trade Zaza for Magloire to get better interior help for Big Al.

Will this work out? I’ll wait and see, because with all of the excitement Sekou, remember that Mike Woodson is still the coach. Is he able to change his ways and let this team run?

Whether or not this is a risk the bottom line remains that people know the Hawks can be taken seriously.

As I said earlier, I’m sure Lebron James is ticked off to no end.

By DarkRyder

February 16, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Richbrave I’m trying to get in touch with JohnGTfan to get there. Hit me up at solarstar2k2@yahoo.com and i’ll let you know what happens.

By mykhalc

February 16, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

JOE, i was tryin’ to understand SHELDEN and LO point. and i hear what you are sayin’ about their willingness. but since they didn’t see the court much at all, i’m not sure their willingness would have ever come into play and paid any dividends. and especially with ALL-KNOWIN’ and HE OF ONE PLAY at HC!!!

By Ra'mon

February 16, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

Sekou, the most interesting thing that you said above all is that BK actually READS the blogs. That says alot about the man in a positive way.

Everyone speaks about the bad draft picks and one terrible free agent addition (every team has them) that BK has made. However, no one ever speaks about the bad moves he DIDN’T make. Signing Dampier, Dalembert (and more) or drafting Yi, Conley, or even Noah, ALL of these are suggestions that people on THIS blog have made.

Paul, DWilliams, and a few others would’ve been just like Law if they were playing under Woody, and Conley would’ve been WORSE. There isn’t a GM who on that draft day would’ve selected DWilliams over Marvin, and Paul had many question marks surrounding his character (remember?).

When was the last time you remember one of BK’s players getting into trouble? I truly believe he does a great job of getting good people on his team. In a city where my favorite manager beats his wife (Cox), my favorite QB is in prison (Vick), and the best CB in the city, doesn’t even play for a team here, but is only here for COURT (Pacman), BK’s selection of players have been wonderful in the character side of things.

BK is a lot better of a GM than half the GMs in the league right now. Is he in the top 5? NO! But he’s not the worse. Personally, I respect a man who can READ what some say about him constantly on this blog, yet still do HIS job HIS way.

BK doesn’t make deals just to make deals, the way some of us wish he would. And now I see why, last week BK told the commentators that he was ‘happy’.

Ainge’s buddy, McHale, gave him a 95% off coupon, and suddenly he’s the GM of the year, when other wise Allen and Pierce would be struggling like Kidd and Carter.

Youtube owed Laker’s boy, Mitch, a check for how much site visits they got thanks to Kobe’s standup routine on him. This same GM gave KWAME BROWN a 10 mil a year deal, and traded ALL-STAR Caron Butler for him, yet, two weeks ago he was praised so much that I thought they were about to give him a Hollywood star right by Jamie Foxx’s.

All GMs make mistakes. But as someone stated the other day on here, most GMs are giving the resources to cover up their mistakes. Being a GM is just like being a professional poker player, no matter how you look at it. No matter how good you are, if you play long enough, you’re going to lose. The Patriots cheated and still couldn’t win EVERY battle. And neither can BK. However, I think in the world of NBA Executives, he is ‘batting’ over .500 for his career.

By Chris D'

February 16, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Barring injury this squad should make the playoffs easily. You also have to think we are pretty set with a quality squad for the next five years. Taking a look at the roster and the salary situation. If the Hawks can clear Speedy’s salary off the books with a medical retirement we could go into the off season in 2 years with $10 to $20 million in cap space to make a move. Remember the Joshes will be getting a large chunk of change this summer so we wouldn’t have all $20 million.

I have thought for a couple of years that Danny Ferry is the worst GM in the NBA. Look at the CAVS roster and their untradeable assets. When Lebron opts out and heads to NYC or LA (or maybe Hotlanta) in a few years I recommend Danny Ferry has a helicopter ready and waiting to get out of town quick. There will be a lot of unhappy folks in Cleveland.

By Josh C

February 16, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this

Just imagine if we could somehow finagle with cap dollars to match up a Salim and Marvin package for Ben Wallace, who the Bulls desperately want to move. Seriously, could a team of Bibby, JJ, JSmith, Horford, and Wallace (with Chill as the 6) come out of the East?

By Atl Flavor

February 16, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Mannn leave Billy Knight alone for now. This man is trying. The 1st word that he would part with Lue or AJ in deal showed me the man is WORKING!! He loves both those guys and to deal them shows he has HEART for the job he has. Can you imagine being in his shoes for 24 hours??? Come on mannn. The HAWKS finally MANed upped. So leave him alone for now. Now Woody… lol thats another story. Tighten up Wooodyyy!!!!!!

By Matt

February 16, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

I agree with what most people are saying here - this is a GREAT trade for the Hawks. Here’s the biggest reason why (hat tip to mavid):

Acie is gonna thrive in a more consistent backup role. Bibby seems like a good mentor.

Bibby is a big-game player. With the Kings slow decline over the last 7 years, Bibby was simply out of place. I have no doubt that he’ll be hesitant making the move across the country, but this man has needed a change of scenery for awhile. And he just got traded from a sinking ship where Ron Artest was the oil to his water (sorry to mix my metaphors) to an up-and-coming team loaded with young talent.

Bibby led the Wildcats to the NCAA title. He led the Kings to a 3-2 lead in the Western Conference finals before the referees figured out what was going on and shut them down. Ever since then, he has been slowly losing motivation. But in a new setting with exciting teammates, Bibby can be Bibby again.

And the best part is - Acie can watch and learn under Bibby far better than he ever did under AJ or Lue (love Tyronn to death, but still).

Our starting 5 is now Bibby, JJ, Marvin, Josh, and Al. We have JChill, Acie, and Zaza leading the charge off the bench, with Soloman, Salim, and Mario getting into the mix a bit now too. We even have room to go out and sign up another warm body to fill up the lane in case Zaza goes down again.

Folks - it’s on now!

By Rutuger

February 16, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Dude, since when have you been heralding the genius of Billy Knight? And now you have the nerve to try to point your finger at Hawks fans who were fed up of his perennial draft day failures and made their disapproval known?

I applaud BK & Co. for the Bibby move, as do all true Hawks fans. We get likely the best PG this franchise has seen in two decades, and clean ourselves of the Shelden disaster in the process. Very well done.

But your insinuation that this single move makes fools out of every fan who has criticized BK’s string of past horrid decisions is nothing short of ridiculous. Shame on you.

You can choose to mudsling your unfounded “I told you so’s”—the real Hawks fans will be celebrating this fantastic move. Because for us, they are few and far between.

GO HAWKS!!!

By Lamont

February 16, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Sekou, thanks for sharing all the info with us. You’ve done a terrific job. I’m also very happy with this trade. While many thought we needed a shooter to open the floor, I think our biggest need was a PG that could give this team an identity. I believe Bibby will make this team play at a faster pace which should bring the best in everyone else. Do you think we can come up with another trade to get us a Big or/and a shooter ? I just don’t trust Zaza very much.

By mrprozach

February 16, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

I’m as big a BK hater as there is, but this was a great trade. With the Knight theft of Bibby and the ATL’s own superman taking the Slam Dunk contest, a great day for basketball in the A

By Josh C

February 16, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Chris D

Actually I live in the Cleveland area- work sent me up here 5 years ago. Re: LeBron, folks around here are fully expecting him to leave. A story surfaced that his senior year he nominated himself as “most likely to move farthest from home” in his senior class. Most folks know about his Nike deal… it doubles if he moves to NY, LA, or CHI. Word is that he, Melo, and Wade (who all took short extensions) will end up playing for Jay-Z in Brooklyn together in 2011.

Oh yeah, and he’s p** everyone off around here sporting his Yankee cap. Even wore it to an Indians-Yankees playoff game. Believe me, folks are expecting him gone and some are actually calling to trade him before he bolts.

By Don!

February 16, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Gotta admit it. Great trade.

With that having been said, you have to think the Hawks have to make the playoffs this season or Woodson is done.

I’m glad to see a real PG in a Hawks uni — and one that doesn’t really mess up our roster.

The question becomes — the 13th slot. Is there a big man worth having, even that ‘deep’ on your bench out there? Or are we better off finding a defensive stopper, because Bibby’s occasionally been mistaken for a matador with the way he waves the opposing team’s guards past like spring bulls.

Anyway, BK you did good. Now the ball’s in Woodson’s court — and he has to find a way to go at least 2-3 on this next swing out West — and that will be a chore.

Later,

Don!

By Bob Sacamano

February 17, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Hey, just think, none of this would be necessary had Billy Knight not screwed up the last two years, and just drafted either Chris Paul or Derron Williams two years ago, or drafted Brandon Roy last year.

For that, Billy Knight gets no pass. He’s still the man wearing the dunce cap. Every dog has his day, and Knight is still the biggest dog in the NBA not named Isiah Thomas. And no, I don’t mean the good kind of dawg.

By new jersey faithful

February 17, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

Ra’mon, BK might just read what Sekou writes, not what all us crazy fans write, that would take forever. The Hawks have an AWESOME team now! We’ll see how bad or good Woody really is now. I hope the young guys can accept Bibby as a possible leader right off the bat, and there is no chemistry problems. The Hawks should soar, no f*cking around now!!

By Malone

February 17, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

This trade more than anything will be Woody’s final chance. Make the playoffs and he stays. Miss the playoffs and he goes…

…along with Bibby and BK, probably.

By reese

February 17, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

Congrats to Billy Knight for bringing Mike Bibby to the hawks. Just as important however is that we will not have to watch Sheldon Williams or Lorenzen Wright in a hawks uniform anymore.

Bibby is the scoring point guard that this teams needed. He is the ball handler that this team needed. He is the passer that this team needed. He is a veteran presence that this team needed. He plays with an intensity that this team needed.

Yes, other moves need to be made, but anyone not happy with this move I just don’t understand.

DJ MBenga, give me a break. How can anyone crave this player.

Good Work Sekou in building suspense and delivering.

By cp

February 17, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

DJ Mbenga is pure trash so how anyone could be upset we did not sign him is beyond me. Hell I saw more out of John Edwards than I have ever seen from DJ Mbenga. Im only baffled by people who think Sheldon will end up being a good player now. Just because he was taken 5th does not mean jack shid. The dude is undersized, had horrible hands, bad footwork, cant finish at the rim, and slow as hell. Are we done making deals?

By Robert

February 17, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but I’ve hated on Billy Knight for YEARS now, but this trade is exactly what the Hawks needed. I’ve already started looking for tickets to the first home game after the all-star break. Billy Knight added exactly what he needed to add to bring the Hawks to the playoffs. It’s now up to the players and I think they are more than up to it. Lets just hope Woody doesn’t screw it up! Go Hawks!

By Dawgs

February 17, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

Seriously. This is a friggin steal if he had included the 2nd and 3rd round pick. BK can barely do well with a 1st rounder. We have no significant minutes coming from our 2nd and 3rd round choices the last few years.

Hate to see AJ go as he would have been a great back up but now AC can learn from a top 7/8 PG in the league

I just purchased a rest of the season pass just for this trade.

By Lil E

February 17, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Good job, Billy Knight. You have proven to me that you want to make this team a winner. Also, you got to fix the mistake that was Shelden Williams. I’ve never been overly upset about Marvin vs. Paul/D.Williams, because it wasn’t a terrible pick at the time. I could speculate all day and night over people we (and other teams) could have drafted, but what’s the point ?

‘preciate ya.

By Lil E

February 17, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Also, I want to add that when Billy Knight took Marvin Williams, almost every source I read had Marvin Williams as the best player in the draft. Also, I don’t think Paul wanted to play for Atlanta. Atleast he didn’t want to come here for a workout.

By ray

February 17, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Man, I can’t remember seeing so many new bloggers.

You have to get a chuckle out of the article written by Jeff Schultz. What does he do, read Sekou’s blog (and our comments) and then write a column? Waaaahahahahahahaaaaa! There’s not a single thing he said that we didn’t say on the LAST blog!

I have to give Billy Knight credit for this move. I really do. Gave him credit for drafting Horford (tell me you don’t love this guy) and Acie (not the new sheriff in town yet, but wait a bit..). This move was bold, unexpected, and probably as good as it was going to get. I don’t know if we would’ve done anything good with a 2nd round pick either. And as another blogger pointed out, other teams are taking note of this. So are other players. **Matt, I agree. This was such a good move. It’s really going to do something for JJ as far as pressure, and for Acie as far as mentoring. I can see the two of them shooting mid and long range jumpers together for hours. Acie can learn so much from this guy. I look forward to JJ getting his customary double/triple teams, only to pass to a wide open Bibby beyond the arc. BOMBS AWAY!

I’m sure we’re going to round the roster out a bit after this. Pick up a cheap FA or two.

Ra’mon, I give credit to Billy for this deal, and for this recent draft. His flubbs are his flubbs. No good deal erases all the bad ones. However, a good deal is proof that a guy can change his path and do what needs to be done to make things better. We need to see more. Josh Smith needs to be re-signed. Other moves have to be made. We still need another potent froncourt player to play alongside Smoove and Horford. Tell me how great he is after all that, eh? Uh huh.

By el el

February 17, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this

Billy Knight has a small history for pulling off lopsided trades. This kind of reminds me of the time he ripped us off by giving us Shareef Abdur-Rahim for Pau Gasol, Lorenzen Wright, and Brevin Knight. In fact, I always thought that maybe he was still working for Memphis with some of the head scratching moves he’s made as our GM.

“Umm, what’s that Memphis Grizzlies? You want to trade for Houston’s lottery pick, but they don’t to because they’re the only other team deluded enough to actually think that Shelden Williams is a top-ten pick. It’s okay, we’ll draft him for absolutely no reason, that way you’ll be guaranteed to either get Roy, Gay, or Foye, who are all just oozing with star potential.”

I’m glad to see Mr. Knight finally make a deal that doesn’t make us look like complete fools.

GO HAWKS!!!

By edgar

February 17, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

i just about soiled my drawers when I saw this on ESPN. Billy, you have redeemed yourself. Sekou, you’re right all the way. This is amazing. The Squawks just became legitimate.

By Patrick

February 17, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

Hate the man.

Love the deal.

GO HAWKS!

BTW, Sekou, any chance of another deal cooking? Or are we set?

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

most know i’ve been an ACIE fan since pre-season. one of the side notes to ACIE now bein’ mentored by BIBBY is that ACIE will rediscover his ‘big shot’ mentality that he had in college. ‘cause BIBBY is still showcasin’ that part of his game with no problem!!

however, WOODSON STILL LURKS!!!!

kudos to BK to gettin’ it done and to SEKOU for providin’ some midnite drama!!!

By Chris D'

February 17, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this

Josh C I grew up in the Cleveland area and I have been in Atlanta for a long time but I observe the Cleveland sports scene and all its sorrow from a distance now. Folks up there take it very personal and they have had a lot of mourning to do over the last 40 years.

I have felt for a while that Billy Knight is not a horrible GM. I just never thought he was all that impressive. His success or lack there of in Atlanta until this trade came down to one horrible summer he had. In the same off season remember he made these glorious moves, he drafted Sheldon and used our cap space to get Lo Wright and Speedy. $13 Million a year has been tied up for the last two years in a whole lot of nothing.

Before we get too excited about this Bibby trade lets make sure the Hawks have the best doctors that they can find available to give Mike Bibby his physical. If he has anything deteriorating lets find out before the train becomes official. Lets not forget the lessons learned from our past starting veteran point guard acquisition history.

By STEVE (HAWKSFANSINCE84)

February 17, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!!!!

EXACTLY WHAT WE NEEDED, WE WILL BE TAKING THE STEP FORWARD THIS SEASON THAT WE LOOKED SO CLOSE TO TAKING BEFORE CRUMBLING FOR A MONTH BECAUSE WE LACKED A POINTGUARD!!!!!!!!

Mike Bibby is COLDBLOODED. He is great at pushing and controlling the tempo, he gives us a veteran leader that knows how to win and has competed at the highest level……. he is the one thing we desperately needed: A VERY GOOD POINTGUARD! Another thing we really needed that he gives us is VERY GOOD PERIMETER SHOOTING, and another option in the clutch besides JJ. He will make his teammates better, take alot of pressure off of Joe Johnson, give us another playmaker, a pointguard that Woody will trust, an efficient floor general that does a good job running the offense…. and he can mentor Acie (Same type of PG in college that Bibby’s been in pro’s) if Acie is capable (Which I think he will be, but admit remains to be seen)….

THIS IS PERFECT! EXACTLY WHAT WE NEEDED, THE ONE THING WE REALLY REALLY NEEDED! AND WE DIDNT GIVE UP ANY OF OUR 6 BEST PLAYERS!!!!

THIS IS AWESOME!!!!!!

Bibby-Johnosn-Williams-Smith-Horford with Chillz as 6th man and Zaza at the 5 off the bench and Law as backup pg……. Horford breakin out too….. this is gonna benefit him, Joe, Chillz, Marvin, Smoove, Acie and Zaza, and our coach as well…..

WOW, GET YOUR POPCORN READY!!!! THESE HAWKS ARE GONNA BE EVEN MORE FUN TO WATCH!!!!!! THIS IS GONNA BE REAL GOOD!!!!! PLAYOFFS, LOOK OUT!

WHAT A GREAT DAY!!!

By Tom Glavine

February 17, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

Suckers.

By STEVE (HAWKSFANSINCE84)

February 17, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

YOU ARE RIGHT MATT

Bibby-JJ-Marvin-Smoove-Horford with Chillz, Zaza and Law leading the charge off the bench and West, Solo and Salim mixing it up in relief…..

YOU AARE RIGHT MATT: IT IS ON NOW!

By hazer

February 17, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

We all know and dislike Knight’s arrogance. But why no one has pointed out that trading Sheldon (among other expirings)for an exceptionally capable and legit veteran PG in Bibby is a public apology to everyone is beyond me.

This is BK’s “sorry folks” for the Paul/Williams debacles, and is as close as we’re gonna get to him admitting a mistake on Sheldon and correcting it. I highly respect those who can overcome their mistakes and learn from them, even thoug BK isn’t coming right out and saying it. He’s too cocky. But coming from him, this is a major “I f’d up, and I’m doing something about it so forgive me” and let’s move on. We should be fair enough to accept it.

BK’s made some crappy moves, and some great ones as well. Let’s give him credit where credit is due, though. This trade is a frikkin’ steal.

This unlikable eccentric has methodically and patiently assembled a starting lineup of Bibby, Johnson, Williams, Smith, and Horford. That’s GOTdamn stout! None were here before he arrived, he brung ‘em all.

PG: 2nd pick, 1st round. SG: 10th pick, 1st round. SF: 2nd pick, 1st round. PF: 17 pick, 1st round (steal of the decade), C: 3rd pick, 1st round. 4 of our 5 starters are top 10 1st rounders, 3 of them top 3. And, arguably, our 2 best players were steals at 10th and 17th of the 1st.

Bibby, Johnson, Williams, Smith, and Horford are one of the top starting lineups in the East. They’re all under 30. The most excited I’ve been about a Hawks lineup since the Mookie /Smith/Laettner/Mutombo days.

“Backup” we’ve got Acie, Salim, and JJ at the 1. Acie should see most of that time, which is much needed. Chillz, Salim, and West backup JJ at 2. This should bring Salim more into the gameplan, which is also much needed. Chillz, JJ, and Smoove can backup at 3. Horford, Zaza, and Solo can sub for Smoove at 4. And Zaza and Solo at 5.

Obviously the “add” to reach 13 needs to be a “big” to come off the bench at 4 and 5 and provide some serious D and rebounding. The offense will be covered with at least 3 15-20 point scorers and outside threats from Bibby and JJ. Hopefully we can get Lo back, and his 6 rough fouls to give as a backup.

Thinking Law will get those much-needed additional minutes at 1, with well-schooled tutoring from Bibbs. Should elevate Acie’s game at an accelerated pace. Ready to take over after Bibbs contract expires. Also thinking Solo will get in there more, rotating between the backup 4 and 5. Still needs to bulk up more, though.

All in all, just got real excited about the Hawks again (C;

By el el

February 17, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

I was just thinking about this, but doesn’t our starting lineup look eerily similar to Detroit’s starting five now (or at least a younger not as good version).

I mean we now have a veteran point guard who has a reputation for burying 3-point daggers into the heart of the opposing team.

A two guard with the endurance to a marathon who drives opposing defenses crazy with their skill and hustle.

A long-armed small forward with an almost automatic mid-range jumper.

A legitimate offense threat at power forward whose true value is the ability to change the game with his defense.

And an undersized center who offsets the fact that they are playing out of position with the simple fact that they are just stronger and tougher than most opposing centers.

By hazer

February 17, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this

Spot-on analogy, double el. Was thinking the very same thing. I’ll take Motown’s record next year. Better yet, the rest of this year (C;

By hazer

February 17, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this

The Pistons have won 10 in a row against the likes of the Magic, the Lakers, the Mavs, the Trailblazers, and so on. Among those 10, the Atlanta game was the closest. Add Bibby, we won that game……….

By hazer

February 17, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this

And the majority of those 10+ “giveaways” would probably be wins with Bibby coming through in the clutch, or JJ without the pressure that Bibby would relieve. Which would put us right around, what, 6th in the east?

By Malone

February 17, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this

So what’s our record the rest of the way?

I say 19-13.

By milledgevilledawg

February 17, 2008 4:39 AM | Link to this

scoop up LARRY TURNER from the nbdl!!!

he’s not the second coming of shaq, BUT he could give us 10-15 minutes a night. he’s a true 7 footer who’ll bang and block shots. he’s exactly what we need off the bench.

he’s a jawja boy too (you can probably tell i’m a little biased). but check out his shooting percentage and rebounds during the last month.

i wouldn’t say it if i didn’t mean it.

By Gusto

February 17, 2008 4:57 AM | Link to this

The 3 biggest winners in that trade are in the following order:

ACIE Law: Finally, he gets a A real point guard from which he can learn from…if somehow, Speedy can come back healthy, would be at least a serviceable backup PG and we could play Acie sometimes at the 2

Joe Johnson & Josh Smith: We will see the end of 4th quarters where both guys hold on the ball for 20 sec and jack up an ugly jump shot.

AND NO, the hawks did NOT gave up too much the only guys that still have value are Johnson (average starter and good backup) & williams, who can become at least a decent defender & rebounder. Lue needs to play in a slow tempo mode with a scoring big man to be effective, otherwise, he’s useless and Wright has been good only to come up with pranks for the rookies…and

By Dominique

February 17, 2008 5:13 AM | Link to this

Great news guys, papa Billy just traded that new guy Mike to Cleveland for a handfull of 8th round draft picks. Finally we can draft some future All-Stars.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 17, 2008 5:40 AM | Link to this

I love how now that Shelden is gone so many people are waxing poetic about what great potential he has and what he might develop into. Some people say he can be a reliable rebounder and defender, some say he might develop into a good post scorer. Some guy earlier, either on this blog or the other one, said that he has a chance to develop into a “perennial All-Star”. This is pretty hilarious. Shelden is a bum. With time, hard work, practice, and some coaching, he may become less of a bum. Maybe he even manages a season averaging 12 and 10 and gets a bizarro world All Star invite a la Jamaal Magloire in 2003. But he will never perform like a #5 pick, and he will struggle to ever be the 4th best player on a good team. Ironically, one guy whose career path Shelden may come close to is… Lorenzen Wright, who also got picked way too high by an inept general manager. The Hawks gave up pretty much nothing of value in this trade, period, other than expiring contracts. Bibby may not make the Hawks a 2nd round team, but regardless this trade is a heist.

By vava74

February 17, 2008 5:50 AM | Link to this

Excellent trade!

And it did not involve Salim who I believe could be our “Microwave” (does anyone remember Vinny “Microwave” Johnson of the 80’s Pistons?”

Maybe now Salim will get his deservered 15-22 minute rotation as the designated shooter off the bench heating up the scoreboard when JJ, Marvin and Josh are on the bench.

If he gets his confidence up and starts shooting as he is really able to and drops his turnovers - which come more out of excessive willingness to please Woody than of lack of talent - he could be extremely valuable and get us a steady 9-12ppg of the bench that can make a huge difference on the score board.

Go Hawks!

By elvis

February 17, 2008 6:07 AM | Link to this

should have went for mike miller and kyle lowry with all those expiring contracts!!

By stevo

February 17, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this

i don’t get the infatuation with salim. first, he is NOT a point guard. not in any way, shape, or form, other than being too short to play any other position effectively. which brings us to point number two, which is he cannot defend. yeah, shooting is great, but there are other parts of the game, which he is totally deficient at ALL of them. and heis a good streaky shooter, but that could just as easily be 1-11 as 6-8. he is a 10 minute a night role player on a bad team at best, and hopefully the hawks will not be that bad team. i just don’t get it.

By FormerHawk

February 17, 2008 7:32 AM | Link to this

The hawks will not win with bibby——their incompetent coach and GM couldn’t win with Bird, Magic and Jordan on the same team. It will be another disappointing season, no matter who they get here.

By doc

February 17, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

to paraphrase kobe for woody, it is now the time to walk thee walk. the ball is in the coaches court. he has absolutely no excuses at this point, it is now or never for him. the pressure to deliver is there.

woody has set out an agenda if no injuries this team would make strides. guess what? we are where we were last year in spite of the fact all have been healthy for the most part. he has to begin to look in the mirror and BOW UP during the stretch drive an have folks begin to say he can make a difference.

one more time, good job bk, hope your buddy can make it work.

By TW

February 17, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this

When looking at the real talent that resides elswhere in the NBA, this trade should not have even made the news. Comparatively speaking, Bibby is an average NBA PG. But the Hawks never look at thing like that - neither do the Falcons. Anytime someone with a recognizeable name comes here, we print up the poster and assume the ring is right around the corner. Didn’t we last year? year before? made a big million dollar deal about some guy named Speedy who was supposed to be the real thing at PG? Bibby is not Baron Davis, Steve Nash, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, or Tony Parker. Mike Bibby is average, an average player in a town that brings in big names to sell jerseys. Anybody ever heard of a kid named Jason Terry?

By Dude

February 17, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this

I think now we can make a run at fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Woo hoo!. Wouldn’t all of this been much easier to have drafted the right players to begin with. Everybody at the time of the draft knew he should have drafted a point guard, everybody!

I guess by this trade he can admit that Sheldon was not a top ten pick, because you will never hear him say it.

By smartguy

February 17, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

Is it possible Mike Bibby can bring is father with him to coach the team? All we need now is a new head coach. WOODY STILL SUCKS.

By JohnGTFan

February 17, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

I agree with many…BK doesn’t get a pass…but he’s far from the worse GM in the NBA (Isaiah), much less all of sports. People tend to forget the mess he inherited. Look at what he HAS BROUGHT here…JJ, Smith, Horford, Law, Chillz, now Bibby. The biggest headache is Woodson. The Hawks have had great talent for a couple years…and I still think Law is simply being held back. I think the talent is there. Also, I’m not so sure that he’s doing the same to Salim as people think. Sure, Salim can fill it up (from time to time), but he has no size and plays NO DEFENSE. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not a fan of Woodson, but I don’t think he can be completely blamed for Salim not getting time. This trade surely makes ATL dangerous, and I think they will climb up as high as the 6th seed. But I’ll always be worried as long as Woodson is on the bench!

By richbrave

February 17, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

DARKRYDER:

Virus ate my e-mail, but the Geek Squad is coming to the rescue. I’ll touch you when they’re through.

By fritzenheimer

February 17, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

I love this trade too. We got a great player for very little. But let’s be serious here: we still have an inept general leadng the charge. To all of you who are going on and on about Acie and Salim and Solo contributing “now” I would ask you what in the world Woodson has done to build their confidence or readiness for this moment. Isn’t it clear to all of us that follow the Hawks that our coach has no idea how to develop talent? All of a sudden Salim is going to be our sharpshooter off the bench? Isn’t this the guy who the coach would play for a game or two then bench hin for the next 15 games? The guy he would put into the game for the first time last year with 15 seconds left when we needed a “deep” threat? And Solomon? What has Woody done to develop his talent? Acie? Woody has been poison to his psyche. Those of you who think Chris Paul, Deron Johnson and Roy would have come here and prospered should think again: would Coach Woodson have guided them to success? i think not. We are still one piece away and I don’t mean a 13th body from the D league. It is time for us to get a coach. No one can convince me we could not have done better with what we had: think about how many end game situations Coach blew this year. And to El El who compares us to the Pistons? LOL! You forgot about Rasheed Wallace. We still don’t have a big presence (no disrespect to Al).

By JohnGTFan

February 17, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

I doubt anymore more trades or coming…and I’m just throwing this out there…what abot a trade involving Marvin to the Nets for Magloire? Starting lineup of Bibby, JJ, Smith, Horford, Magloire. I like that.

By Chris

February 17, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

It will be interesting to see how the Hawls play now that they have a true facilitator at PG. Bibby can fill up the stat sheet, choosing to shoot when he has the chance or to pass to the open man. He also fights for boards, which you can’t say about many PGs.

And with Lue and AJ gone, I would think that Salim would get at least a couple minutes a game. When JJ needs a quick breather, Bibby can stay on the floor, drawing the D to him and creating some open looks for Salim outside.

Sekou, how does taking on Bibby’s contract affect the Hawks’ ability to re-sign Josh Smith after the season?

By jfreak13713

February 17, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

PERFECT! Billy Knight has made some big mistakes in the past, but today he helped the future of the Atlanta Hawks. When this works and it may be next year before we see it play out well Billy Knights past mistakes will be just that, the past! Finally, A good move for an Atlanta based team. Remember, this is a what have you done for me lately sports nation and Billy Knight just pulled off a GREAT deal.

By Maurice

February 17, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

TW. Yes we have heard of Jason Terry. We would be a more competitive team if Jason had stayed with the nucleus we have now. But that’s only if you’re psychic. Mike Bibby is not the second coming and no one, at least not me, thought that Speedy would be anything more than a bench warmer. Remember he wasn’t hurting before he came over then all of a sudden his knees starting buckling. Oh, the fear… I guess he couldn’t handle it. We have a PG be happy.

By Scott

February 17, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Sekou, that was a little harsh about the world imploding. I am sorry, we are in this situation because of Billy Knight. He made ALL those draft choice and free agent blunders. One trade where he picked up an expensive point guard in exchange for some decent depth doesnt come close to exhonerating him for all his prior crap. Bibby will make 14 mil next year, which totally depletes our cap room, PLUS, We STILL have no center and STILL have Mike Woodson. Our problems are not solved! Finally, DJ Mbenga is definitely no savior - but he would have come in very handy on this roster.

By Count Chocula

February 17, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

I am now convinced that the “K” in Sekou K Smith stands for “kiss arse”.

And his disciples on “Blog Z(ero)” are just as pathetic.

Billy Knight(mare) FINALLY makes a good move, and some of you bozos are now proclaiming him to be an underrated genius? Puh-lease.

To borrow a phrase from my country cousin, even a blind hog finds an acorn once in a while.

Think about this: why was it necessary for Knight(mare) to trade for a starting PG? Could it have anything to do with the string of absolutely HORRIBLE draft picks and free agent signings he made? (Personally, I give BK virtually no credit for lucking into the Horford pick last year. That would be like praising somebody for winning Mega-Millions.)

And, while Bibby is certainly better-than-average, if you think he’s capable of guiding THESE Hawks past the first round of the playoffs, you are absolutely delusional.

Of course, as soon as the Hawks put together two or three wins in a row against the dregs of the league, Sekou and the Suck-Ups will be talking about how the team has finally turned the corner.

In the top-heavy and incredibly shallow Eastern Conference, they’ll make the playoffs … heck, according to David Stern, SOMEBODY has to … but they’ll be done after the first round.

Count on it!

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

In my humble opinion, this trade has done two things;

First, it has validated that Hawks management drafted incorrectly in the past by passing on point guards when they had the chance in past drafts when they kept going for power forwards.

Secondly, by trading all of their expiring contracts, they have now risked being able to sign potential players on their own roster to long term contracts, such as Josh Smith, or free agents from other teams, because they will not have cap room.

The Hawks now have taken their only potential opportunity for long term success and frittered it away for a possibility for a slim chance at a playoff for this year. This reeks of desperation.

Not much of trade if you ask me.

By DNo

February 17, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

SS, I gotta give you your propers on this one—-you are da man!

By JohnGTFan

February 17, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

I swear, in this day and age, still can’t please some people no matter what you do. ATL finally does something impressive to lift Atlanta from the depths, and certain people still have to be negative. If ATL traded for Dwight Howard, there would be at least a handful of people saying he makes too much money, or he won’t thrive playing in his home city. Unreal!

As far as criticizing Sekou…YOU MUST BE KIDDING! He’s the only AJC writer with CREDIBILITY and GUTS to keep the fans updated and speak his mind. How many other writers (with the exception of DOB) come back for updates on their blog? Sekou Smith is as good as it gets! Show respect on his blog, or don’t show at all!

By JDUD

February 17, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

For you guys to continue to bash the GM and then call Sekou a brown noser is childish. The past is what it is the past. You guys never think to see where we are going only to think about where we have been. It is apparent that you guys live perfect lives and issues of the hawks on court and cap issues make you feel better about your mistakes and mismanagement of finances and talent. I bet some of you had high price dates that turned into bad housewifes. But hey, I guess I am a kiss arse too.

Peace up, A-town down.

By James

February 17, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Yeah… he FINALLY got a point guard.. it only took what… six years? You can not excuse the stupidity of the past because he makes one good move. Should have never ever in a million years passed on Chris Paul…ever. The GM is still an idiot, no matter how good this deal is, and I still want him gone.

By terrell barron

February 17, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

I’m happy with the trade, but remember, Woody Woodpecker is still around, so we’ll just have to see how it goes.

By SalimFan

February 17, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

I Agree TB this is obviously a great treat but with mike woodsen on the case you never know how things will turn out. This trade was an absolute STEAl and it really helps our drafted guards out.

With a less clutterd backcouurt thius opens up playing time for Acie and Salim. It also gives them time to go through growing pains and learn to grow without looking over their shoulders at T-LUE and AJ thinking their coming out of the game. Mike Bibby can be a mentor to Acie and Salim. And by the time he’s ready to hand over the reigns they’ll be ready for the task.

Bibby is a proven player whose wone an NCAA championchip a FIBA americas gold Medal and had tons of success with other NBA team. He is also VERY durable and almost NEVER has injuries.

By Mitch

February 17, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

The Hawks should be able to keep this current roster intact for this year and next, assuming they will re-sign JSmoove (no brainer) and Chills. After the 2008-2009 season, should they decide to let Bibby become a free agent, they will return his $15.5 M to the salary cap, which by then may be nearing the luxury tax plateau.

If the Hawks don’t improve and not only make the playoffs, but have a good showing in the playoffs, look for a coaching change. Ownership has too much $$$ invested in this team to not put the team in the hands of a capable coach.

One of the things that is bothersome about Mike Woodson is how poorly he assimilates young players into the program. Aside from Al Horford, whose tremendous effort and competitiveness would be welcomed by any coach at any time, Woodson has thwarted the progress of the youth of this team…why? He’s got no patience, and when he does give some of the young players some run, he’s all over them when they screw up (thus affecting their confidence) and gives them quick hooks. How frustrating is it to watch Solomon Jones get some run and actually provide some nice athleticism on the inside, and then not see him for another week or two.

One has to wonder what the real story with Shelden Williams was. At Duke, did any of you ever see Williams dog it? He was the ultimate high effort player…and a real warrior on the floor. Here in Atlanta, having been graced with the #5 pick, Williams not only floundered, he looked like he really didn’t care. There were times when he hardly ran up and down the floor, while donning the look of a totally demoralized and listless player. We will see what happens with him when he’s coached by someone else. While it would seem pretty certain that he will never live up to the #5 pick billing, if Williams finds the right coach and team, he will become a highly comeptitive player.

Imagine going from Coack K to Mike Woodson?

The Hawks second team now looks like Acie Law IV-PG; Salim Stoudamire-2G; Josh Childress-SF; Solomon Jones-PF; Zaza Pachulia-C; and defensive specialist Mario West as the wild card. Judging from the relative inexperience of this unit (albeit some intriguing talent), it would behoove the Hawks to sign a more veteran player to fill out the roster.

The Hawks have a tough schedule ahead…but could this trade have come at a better time? This team has been down in the dumps and playing like chumps in close games. With Bibby and his moxie, the whole climate could change.

By Bertie

February 17, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

JohnGTFan, Marvin for Magloire, no way. I like the Magloire idea but not at that price. The best will be Zaza and Salim for Magloire but the Nets probably will not go for it because Zaza has 1 more yr left in his contract and they are trying to clear cap space. They would have probably done either LO or Lue and Salim for Magloire. Also, Magloire will start at C only against teams with a dominant C, to prevent a trashing like the one in Houston a couple of weeks ago.

Great trade, this season now has a chance to be salvage. Woodson needs to do less coaching, let his players run, run, run and give the bench longer minutes. Please no more time outs in the middle of a winning fast break.

By richbrave

February 17, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

JOHNGTFAN:

Yeah!!@@, Yeah!! Tell ‘um J. Smith rocks. He’s why I both to post here. Reminds me of Brother Dave, O’B - wan with his word saber.

By richbrave

February 17, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

ASTROJOE:

Yours of 10:16 P.M. LAST NIGHT. wIZ WORKED OUT wILKS AND HAD HIM ON 10 DAY. gOT IN TWICE. dIDN’T SHOW MUCH. mAYBE NOT A GOOD FIT FOR THE d.c. TEAM. nEVER SAW ENOUGH OF HIM TO TELL REALLY.

By Professor

February 17, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

The year they drafted Marvin he was supposed to be the best in the draft. Everyone said we would have been reaching to take Paul that high. He had character issues and he was undersized. NO ONE though Deron Williams would turn into what he is today, they just thought he was a bigger PG than Paul. Everyone was saying not to let the fact that we needed a PG cloud our judgement into making the best pick we could make. So BK did that. Granted, he made a huge mistake in drafting Sheldon, who I don’t think is even a first round talent, but he got rid of that mistake yesterday and gave it to the Kings for what?….A PG. I don’t think BK is doing that bad of a job. All that is missing is ZAZA playing as good as he was a couple of years ago and this would be a great squad. ZAZA put up decent numbers back then but I thought he wore down because he played too many minutes. Maybe he needs to play all those minutes to get in a groove. But if he could give you what Childress does off the bench, all of the sudden the Hawks are much better than before. And by the way I dont think they will keep both Josh’s. But how do you trade the potential sixth man of the year on a team that is trying to make the playoffs? Its a tough situation thats for sure. I don’t think you resign Bibby either. By the time his contract runs out we will know what we have in Law. Then you can trade his expiring contract next year for a big man or resign him if Law doesn’t pan out. He is just 29 by the way so he still has alot left in him.

By TW

February 17, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Maurice - I will try to be happy, and will continue to support the home teams - which includes holding them accountable when they continue to screw over the fans by selling us a bill of crap time and time and time and time again. Take a look at how much we are paying ‘bench warmer’ Speedy.

By Richie Rich

February 17, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

I wonder how much playing time Bibby will get, considering he plays virtually no defense. This is mainly the reason why Salim doesn’t play, because his defensive effort is lacking….Now having said that, Will he play Bibby because of his offense, and overlook his defensive woes?…If he does, I think Salim needs to be playing as well!!!

By terrell barron

February 17, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

BK got Bibby for a 2nd in 2007(AJ), a 2nd in 2008, a 5th overall bust(Sheldon) and Mr. dribble,dribble,dribble(T-Lue). I can live with that. I sure hope that Mike helps out Marvin’s game. He should get a ton of open looks, with the addition of Bibby, and Lord knows, thats his only option.

By Ra'mon

February 17, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Glenn, do you not understand the concept of FREE agent market? The Hawks have had PLENTY of cap space the last few years during the off season. However, if you’re not showing players that you’re committed to win, you will have to OVERPAY for them. Its easier to build through the draft and trade than via free agency. Also you fail to realize that the contracts traded equaled Bibby’s deal, but those contracts weren’t having any positive IMPACT on current games.

On top of that, if this doesn’t work out THIS season, they still have the chance to trade Bibby for something else in a larger trade. Evidently, Sheldon, Lue, Wright, and Johnson wasn’t working out (evident by the 21-28 record). So if its costing the SAME amount to keep those players, why not trade them for something that has a great chance at working.

Not including rookie contracts, what top notch point guard isn’t making the same type of money Bibby is making? Thats what the market dictates, example Mo Williams, who is doing nothing this year after signing his contract. If all the Hawks need is a PG, C and another shooter, who were the free agent PGs and Cs the Hawks could’ve chosen from that would make THIS kind of impact? The Hawks have no reason not to sign Smooth and Childress to a good deal. Smooth will set the market for the rest of the class, b/c he’s the best unsigned player from the class. Childress will probably have to wait to see what’s been offered to Gordon, Deng, and others for his deal. But it still won’t be a bank breaking deal.

By the way, I hope many of you understand that Paul and Williams wouldn’t be nearly as good as they are now, have Atlanta drafted them. One thing many of you forget is, the Jazz and the Hornets actually run PLAYS. I’ll bet a large amount of money on that having to do something with their success. With Woody, Paul and Williams would’ve only figured out how to dribble to half court and pass to JJ. Thats why Ivey started for so long, b/c he passed to JJ without trying to create.

I just wish, someone could watch a draft show of that year again. I wish so many of you could SEE that again (b/c many of you have forgotten the truth). I wish you could understand and see again that Marvin was the #1 talent in that draft. That teams were trying to do what they could to trade up to get Marvin. If the Bucks would’ve drafted Marvin, and the Hawks got Bogut, would BK have gotten so many questions about why he didn’t take Paul. I mean sure Bogut is a center, but he’s not a future all star like the beloved Paul and Williams. Do you think 16 other teams are banging their heads on the wall STILL wishing they would’ve taken that jumping ‘kid’ out of Atlanta, instead of letting him fall to the 19th slot (I say only 16 others, because I’m sure Orlando is happy with their decision)?

By Billy

February 17, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

He got an All-Star caliber PG and gave up pretty much nothing. Doesn’t make up for all his bonehead moves, but it was still a good move.

By NATIVE SON

February 17, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

* Only one small thing to add. I know this will give Acie L. a good mentor, but if Bibby, can get Marvin to move more, it’s on for real. PRETTY GOOD DARN TRADE! GO HAWKS ORGINZATION!!!!!*

By Tony

February 17, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

I think it was an okay trade but I think we should have really gone after Devin Harris when Bibby is gettting torched by the opposing pg you will see what I mean. Also Shelden will be a serviceable big not a top 5 pick but I could see him as a quality backup PF getting 7-9 boards a game. At the End of the Day Bibby is 30 he will provide offense and clutch shooting I say about 14- 18 pts a game but if he is giving up 20 - 25 pts to opposing guards what good is that, I will have to wait and see. Also Some People are saying to go after Curry and Magloire and I say get off the pipe. The Hawks should be going after a defensive low post threat someone that can provide 6-10 pts and 7-10 boards and someone who can run the floor with a pulse and magloire nor curry does that.

By randy

February 17, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

One thing noone is asking is: Will they have the money to re-sign Josh Smith now that they have added a large contract like Bibby’s??

By Wow

February 17, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

We’ll see how the west coast trip goes…They may need some time to adjust to each other but I think the true value of this trade is the positive effect it will have on the current Hawks starters. Open looks for Marvin, less wear and tear on JJ, great set ups for JS and Horford will be Horford. If we can hit the 5 seed in the East then we might sneak into the Eastern Conf. Finals…where we will get waxed, but it’s a start!

By JackP

February 17, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

The NBA stinks.

By preston

February 17, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

I have been just as disappointed as everyone else regarding the hawks and Knight over the past fews yrs…..but I have to give them credit for making this deal…….we didn’t get Paul, but Marvin was regarded as one of, if not the best player comming out of the draft, it just turned out that Paul was the man…..if Marvin had turned out to be the next Micheal Jordan, no one would be thinking of Paul here……this deal just proves that drafting Sheldon, and missing out on a player like Paul was a mistake, so that is why I have to give credit to Knight b/c he is at least attempting to get it right. Knight has actually developed a very good roster inspite of the draft gaffes. I think now that the two people that have just had their leashes shortened are Woody and Marvin……..Woodson has just been given one of the best backcourts in the east, and Marvin has just seen a fellow first rounder shipped out…….so it’s put up or shut up for them both.

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Ra’mon, I understand free agency better than most as I have a law degree and know how the cap space works better than most.

What effectively just happened is that the Hawks lost the ability to use the cap space that would have been immediately available this summer (by the expiring contracts) without having to do anything.

This could have been used to offer current players, such as Josh Smith, a max contract, had that been of interest to the Hawks, and either keep him or trade him, and also have flexibility in the free agent market. Now that flexibility has been lost for a chance at a low level playoff spot in the Eastern conference this year, and the requirement to fill this year’s roster with players that no other NBA team wants.

I understand what everyone is saying about trying to show the team that management is trying to help them make it to the playoffs, but in this case, what has happened is that the fans are the ones who are really getting screwed. We are the ones laying down the big bucks to support the team, and, in my opinion, this short term “solution” will haunt the team for years to come, just like the bone headed drafts of the past years.

Again, in my humble opinion, had the Hawks drafted a point guard, when they had the chance, rather than big man after big man, this move would not have been necessary, and the team would not only still be vying for a playoff spot, it would probably even be in a better position than it currently stands.

While I am on my soapbox, let me also say that in watching the team, I do see talent, and players hungary to win, but I also see a team desperate for some coaching. It is obvious when watching the Hawks play other teams that at least offensively, it is almost sad watching the team trying to come up with some offense in the half court. It is like they have no clue how to run a play when watching other teams, like the Jazz or Wizards. Unless Bibby is a magician who can provide plays to his teammates where his coaching staff can’t, I’m not really sure how much this trade will really help get the team beyond the first round, if they get that far.

By cee

February 17, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

WOW I CANT BELEIVE IT I CAN ACTUALLY SAY GOOD MOVE BILLY GOOD MOVE

By The Flash

February 17, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Bibby is a great get.

A word of caution. Bibby’s best days were leading an offense informed by the guidence of one of the greatest basketball minds/teachers of all time, Pete Carrill. Carrill had everyone on that team understanding concepts that made watching the Kings on offense a joy.

By Hock

February 17, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Glenn, I too have a law degree and have no idea what that has to do with anything. Hopefully, you were trying to amuse us and not impress us.

As for losing cap space, the Hawks have been masters of freeing up cap space for the past decade or more — and for what? This team has had more five-year plans than the old USSR and none of them worked worth a crap. It’s about time they tried the opposite approach and actually traded for a player who can help now. No more five year plans for me.

By Northwest Dawg

February 17, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Hey Glenn, I’m not a lawyer but I play one on TV. If you’re going to brag about your creds then please bring something new to the table- first, it doesn’t matter how far under the cap the Hawks are if no top free agents want to be in the ATL. Plus, do you really think Josh Smith would stay if the Hawks didn’t make any moves? The Sixers, among others, have made it known they want Smith and they already have pieces in place to put around him, including a pg. With Bibby in place, all of the sudden resigning Smith may have just gotten a lot easier. As for your comment about drafting a pg— this point has been made ad infinitum and, yes, Knight should have lost his job a long time ago. Finally, as for this being a “short term solution”- you can’t rebuild forever. At some point, you have to step up and win now. The East is awful, why not make a move for this year and next and see where it takes you.

By Conan

February 17, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Well at least we don’t have to worry about BK screwing up the next draft since he has traded away all of our picks….a bright side to everything

By Hock

February 17, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

As for now having no 2008 draft picks, unless our #1 is a lottery pick, recent history of Sarver and the Suns suggests they will dump their #1 for a bag of balls in order to get under the cap, so if we really need a #1 there’s a good chance we could get it back from Sarver, cheaply. Given the Hawks youth I don’t think it’s a big deal that they have no draft picks, especially since #2 picks like the one just traded usually wash out — especially Billy’s.

By hazer

February 17, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Fritz: Solo and Salim will get more minutes purely out of necessity. The guys immediately in front of them just got shipped…

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Hock and Northwest Dawg, I respect your opinions, no need to get personal here. I was just expressing mine.

The problem is the GM and the Head basketball Coach. The GM has made mistakes for a number of years and this trade, in my opinion, is too little, too late, and it has taken away some of the best leverage the team had to get much better in the near future with veterns through free agency because of the cap space they traded away.

As far as the Head Coach is concerned, Mike Woodsen might be a nice man, but he doesn’t seem to be able to get the guys to learn how to play a half court offense if his job depended on it. The defense seems to be playing better, but on the offensive side of the court, it is usually people standing around watching someone playing one on one.

If there weren’t some really great athletes on the team, with some amazing desire to win pride in their job, there is no telling how few games they would have actually won. It definitely wasn’t based on the offensive genius of the Head Coach.

Now if you want to slam me for my opinion, go for it my friends…It’s a free world and I have now said my two cent’s worth. The podium is all yours.

By Mike

February 17, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Mykhalc excellent brake down bro. You covered all the bases with the big M touch like always. Doc, Ray, Roan, Abe, CP, KEN, Clyde, and all the rest of the old heads, even HB ANDO himself knows this was a great trade for Hawks. I can’t remember in the history of this blog so many new guys joining in. We sit here and drink Kool-Aide take shots at each other, but always in the name of fun. Anybody that’s been on this blog any length of time knows what a great move BK made to bring in a baller like Bibby. It’s like Kobe said about having Gasol, now you have so many options its fun to play the game. The same goes for Bibby. With his court vision, Big shot, and Big game mentally, he can do for the Hawks what Nash did for Phoenix, and that’s make it easier for everyone to score, especially JJ.

It’s funny you always hear people complaining about what you don’t have, without taking stock of what you got. What the Hawks have is still one of the youngest teams in the league, and they just got better. I’m not sure if Woodson can change his coaching philosophy, I know one thing, “His Assss is on the clock.” If the Hawks stumble coming out the gate, they should go head and give Larry Drew a chance to coach this team. He’s knows the guys and the he knows the system. This would cause the lease distraction for a team that’s looking to make the playoff for the first time in ten years.

Welcome to all the new wagon riders, GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Steve T

February 17, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

The signing of Bibby has made it possible for the Hawks to sign another good player because you now have the big 3. The big 3 for the hawks are Bibby, JJ, and Josh Smith. The hawks need to add a deadly 3 point shooter to round out the mix.

What I would like to see is the Hawks turn the ball over to Bibby. They had a lot of turn over because everyone wanted to handle the ball.

I can wait until Ken weight in on the trip.

By Aaron

February 17, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

Glenn, did that law degree help you with math?

Because unless they Hawks renounced Childress (meaning COMPLETELY GAVE UP ON), they had NO CAP SPACE even BEFORE the Bibby trade.

NONE. ZIP. ZILCH. NADA.

Yours is a flawed argument, which, of course, is not uncommon on a blog with more football fans than basketball fans.

By Tom Glavine

February 17, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Suckers.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 17, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Scott,

I understand where you’re coming from on the pounding about the Hawks’ draft mistakes. It’s not that your critique is invalid, it’s just overly redundant (perhaps you’ve seen Clyde’s everlasing chant “Fire Billy and Woody” around these parts).

Listen, my only point is that we trumpet a good move for once, since WE are all so quick to bust up Knight and the Hawks for the bad ones. I’m all for cracking people. But I also believe in a little balance. And the Hawks came through on this one.

Time after time I’ve said here that the best GMs recognize their mistakes immediately and then take the necessary steps to fix it. The Hawks certainly have made their mistakes and they haven’t always recognized them as fast maybe we have. And fixing them has been even tougher battle.

But they did right this time, man. And I’m no hater of epic proportions, so it was time to give up the love.

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Aaron, with the exception of Sheldon Williams, all of the players the Hawks traded away had expiring contracts and would have provided the cap space I was referring to.

Maybe you need to understand what you are saying before you start throwing out insults. Why do you think the other team was willing to make the trade? They wanted the expiring contracts so THEY could be players in the free agent market next year.

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

By the way, Aaron, did you ever stop to think why the other team made the trade with the Hawks rather than the Cavs, who were after Bibby for over a year? It was because the Hawks could provide them with the cap space.

By cp

February 17, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Great to see you join in on the discussion Mike. Did the people from the Falcons blog make their way over here? Some rediculous post are popping up in here. Yea having cap space for free agents is nice and all but what is the use when nobody wants to come here. What has that cap space done for us? We got Speedy “my knees hurt” Claxton and Lo Wright. So obviously having that money meant nothing. I said it yesterday and someone mentioned it earler, when you consistently have a bad team like the Hawks have had over the last 10 years you build the team through the draft and trades because most free agents would rather come here to party than to actually play for the Hawks. Im not even a big Bibby fan but I can even admit that this was a great move by the Hawks. They gave up nothing for Bibby. People Sheldon Williams will not turn out to be the next Diaw, hell he wont even be Royal Ivey. The guy is a second round talent at best. Poor hands, poor footwork, not athletic, cant finish at the rim, very undersized ( hell BK is bigger than Sheldon), no type of hops. The guy was doomed from start so trust me he wont be more than a servicable if not end of the bench guy. He got the benefit of a lot of ghost calls at Duke. Well this is the NBA not Duke so he wont be getting any more fantom calls. My only problem like many of the other regulars states is that we still have Mike “Gregg Knapp” Woodson calling the shots. Maybe Bibby will say forget Woody and actually call some real plays. Something I havent seen by Woody since he has been here.

By Glutton for Punishment

February 17, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

I wonder if a Kevin Pittsnogle is available. He can shoot from the outside. He can be our Bill Lambeer or Mehmet Okur for the Jazz. Or is he so poor on defense that it is not worth the risk. If we could get a big that can pull the other teams center out so JSmoove and Horford can work on the inside (while Marvin is sitting on the bench)

By gccausey

February 17, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Unless Soloman Jones cranks it up, to help Pachula, we still need a big man.

By Aaron

February 17, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Glenn,

Expiring contracts do not necessarily create cap space. You have to get under the SALARY CAP to pursue free agents above the MLE. The Hawks weren’t going to have enough money under the salary cap to puruse anyone of interest, and there were very few players on interest to begin with.

I’m not going to spend hours explaining this people on here. Google Larry Coon’s FAQ and read it. Then come criticize this trade, if you can.

You won’t.

By Aaron

February 17, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Glenn,

The Kings will not be players in the market next year. In fact, they’ll likely be OVER the salary cap. They want to save MONEY (which expirings offer) and go with the younger Udrih and Shelden Williams. THAT’S why they made the deal.

By terrell barron

February 17, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

Kings President, Geoff Petrie said that he was excited about adding another young front court player, who was the 5th pick in the 2006 draft. How could you be excited about Sheldon? Maybe he has him mixed up with Candice. lol

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Mike, you might have given me credit for Ra’mon’s post??!!?? not sure. but i’ll take it anyway. LOL but i was on a roll in yesterday’s blog!!!;o)

Aaron, i agree with your observations about why SAC went with the trade. i truly believe THEUS believes/knows he can get some mileage from SHELDEN. i said yesterday i thought SW could be a 10/8 cat. most might doubt that. but SW was right at 6/6 in his rookie year under the BRAINLESS WONDER, havin’ started 31 games last year. personally, i think THEUS can get another 4/2 outta him.

just like players have reps in the league, so do coaches. and i’d luv to know what other coaches think after reviewin’ WOODSON’s game film!!! i’d be willing to bet the majority would give him less than passin’ grades on game management and substitions!!!

i STILL CANNOT believe the TO he called on a fast break in the POR(?) game!!! i just truly hope that this franchise realizes that NO MATTER how this team does the remainder of the year that WOODSON should NOT be the HC beyond this season…PERIOD!!!

By vlad

February 17, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Now let’s trade Marvin Williams for a good centerman and put Horford at the power forward spot where he belongs.

By Ken Strickland

February 17, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

With this trade, BK has positioned us to be a factor in the FA market next yr. Our expiring contracts are off the books. We have no 1st or 2nd rd draft picks to worry about, and we have no long team committment to Bibby. We can now resign our RFA’s and acquire some URFA’s as well. All we need now to be a major factor in the East is a shooter and some servicable BIG’s coming off the bench.

Our 2 PG’s compliment each other. Acie is a penetrator that isn’t much of an outside shooter, and Bibby is an outside shooter that isn’t much of a penetrator. This trade doesn’t excite me, but it doesn’t disappoint me either. Something had to be done. Now if we can only do what DOC suggested in an earlier post, trade Woodson. Who knows, maybe my lack of excitement isn’t from the trade, but the fact Woodson is still involved.

Being a seasoned vet, maybe Bibby will be strong enough to put team needs ahead of Woodson’s insecurities, bullheadedness and/or stupidity. With rest and a breath of fresh air(Bibby), I wouldn’t be at all surprised if we had a successful west coast trip. I certainly hope so.

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Aaron, I’ve read several commentaries on the cap issue, including Larry Coon’s Larry Coon’s, and well aware of the Hawk’s and Sacramento’s positions. No need to lecture to me. As I said before, everyone is entitled to their opinion, including me, whether you like it or not. As for me, I do not like the trade for the reasons I gave before, and you you choose to disagree with me, it is a free country.

It doesn’t change the fact that the Hawks just traded away three expiring contracts that would have opened up cap room for the team this coming summer for a point guard when they passed up point guards for big men on several previous drafts. It also doesn’t change my point that the Head basketball Coach doesn’t seem to be able to prepare his team or teach them any fundamentals.

Those were the basic points of my comments that you never addressed.

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Sekou, what’s the status on CHILS’ after the MRI?

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 17, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Glenn, it doesn’t matter what your cap number is when you are trying to give your own players contract extensions. Josh Smith has what are called “Bird rights” which allows the Hawks to exceed the cap to sign him. The Bibby trade has no effect on that from a salary cap perspective. This is how the Heat were able to give Dwyane Wade a max contract even though they had Shaq on the roster and were over the cap at the time.

What the Bibby trade does impact is the ability for the Hawks to add marquee free agents this summer — but chances are slim to none that the kind of big man the Hawks could use is available on the free agent market without a sign-and-trade. The Hawks won’t be able to go over the mid-level to sign free agents from other teams. But assuming that this is a playoff team already, that shouldn’t really be a problem since they will be looking to add complementary pieces, not major pieces.

And even if the Hawks end up needing cap space, Bibby’s contract expires next year. So even if the Hawks don’t want to extend Bibby at this price (they would be foolish to do so anyway) they will have a $13 million expiring contract on the books next year to use as a trading chip. Bibby is not a long-term solution at his current salary, but as a guy to keep the seat warm until Acie Law is ready who can help this team make the playoffs this year, he is a great fit.

There is pretty much zero downside to this trade. Zero.

By MJ

February 17, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

This deal was a very good deal for this team on so many different levels. Not only does it provide help in the back court with JJ; but the fact that they made this deal will probably do wonders mentally with this team because it says that management really wants to try to get this team to the playoffs. Now maybe with these moves, they’ll be able to resign both Joshes to long term contracts???

I’m lovin this!!!!!!!!! Go Hawks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By MannyT

February 17, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

1. Woody’s got to make this work

2. Who’s laughing at 41-41 now

3. If you take an honest look at all the NBA GM’s, BK is above average, but not great. If you really think he’s so bad—I wish Pete Babcock comes back to GM your team, not mine.

4. While you hate the tight lips, that the silencer (BK) has with the media, note that Sekou said he pulled him aside awhile ago and tipped him that something was in the works.

5. As far as NBA rules go, this trade should have almost zero impact on resigning our own free agents. The interesting thing is the impact on getting anyone to come here as a free agent. (Probably no cap space for a big name. Mid level exception maybe if allowed.) Will we see a sign and trade if something cannot be worked out with a Josh?

No I am not a lawyer, agent, or accountant. I did not even stay in a Holiday Inn Express last night, but I am loving the trade.

For all you Darks, Darths, etc…could this be the return of the jedi?

By Astro Joe

February 17, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

For those who missed it, BK conducted a very, very rare radio interview around 4:00 today on 790 The Zone. Nothing exactly mind-blowing was shared (I think I may have missed first few questions). Highlights were…Bibby brings experience and shooting skills. Expects that he will fit in nicely with the current roster. Tends to be soft-spoken. Team still likes Law and thinks this will allow him to learn from a top PG. Expects Law to get better by practicing against Bibby and from back-up minutes. Wouldn’t predict how trade would translate into playoff position.

If he had any comments about the guys who left, I missed them. He did say the team has been “wildly inconsistent” this season and he thinks that Bibby’s addition will help. Also mentioned that opposing teams use their PG to double Joe and he thinks that will stop with Bibby on the floor.

The guys conducting the interview did not ask questions about adding more players, possibility of future trades or our existing free agents. It felt like they wanted to focus on the positive Bibby story exclusively. I wanted more but was glad to hear our GM “speak to the public” for a change. This is the 2nd time I’ve heard him on the Sunday afternoon program, they must promise him slow pitches right down the middle (or gift cards to PetSmart).

By RA

February 17, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Okay,

Let me begin by saying that I’m no bandwagon jumper. I’ve been a Hawks fan for over 30 painful years. I’ve sworn them off time after time and then I’ve gone back for more… I’ll be the first to say that this franchise has made mistake after mistake, not just over the past ten years but during also during the 30 years previous to that! And yea, there are the Paul’s and the Roy’s and every other draft day mistake that we’ve made since the Hawks moved to this city that MIGHT have ended up in a championship, but you know what? There are also the Dominique Wilkins, the Josh Smith’s, the Doc Rivers, the Al Horford’s, guys that could have won a championship and guys that still might if we give them half a chance and throw our support behind them. I don’t think it’ll happen this year. There’s still the matter of that glaring hole in our front court where a legitimate center should be, but this is the eastern conference so… My point is that this team is moving toward something, and as many mistakes as they’ve made, the talent is undeniable. Our question is the same question that Lincoln had in the summer of 1862, do we have a general that can manage the arithmetic of what we have and use it to win? I don’t know.

Posted this to the wrong blog last time around…

By Steve T

February 17, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

We just added another JJ type player on the team. If JJ and Bibby get hot, it will be a long night for some team because they will stretch the D all over the place, thus leaving Smith and Horford free to work the inside.

By Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs

February 17, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

Well we can discuss this trade all we want, but how about an article or at least a word from the AJC on how the Hawks blatantly (and stupidly) make up the attendance stats. No one comes to the games. On a good night (Lakers, perhaps) they have 5,000 and report a sellout. On a bad night (almost every other one) they have perhaps 1,500. Then they report 12-14,000. Really…whatever? The NBA has become such a joke, with gross overeporting of attendance, some of the lowest playoff TV ratings ever (not to mention that network TV barely even covers it anymore). The NBA is well on its way to NHL-dom, or is it already there. And hey, about those Hawks - they draw 2,000 in an area with 3.5 million. The people have voted, with their backs turned!

By roan st

February 17, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

The hawks traded nothing but garbage to get bibby. So I view this as a good deal but not great. Why? Because bibby is definitely in decline at this point in his career. He is a very old 29. But since we gave up absolutely nothing to get him, he is very much worth the gamble. The biggest issue will be his ability to stay healthy.

Sekou, This was a no-brainer trade for the hawks but you’re overselling bibby just a tad. I don’t think it’s prudent to refer to bibby as ” a monster” at this stage of his career. But if he can keep his health the hawks have a chance to make the playoffs. And as far as knight’s ability as a GM, shelden williams should have been brandon roy. So instead of saying knight is now hammer, lets just say he turned a potential quadruple bogey into a decent score. I’m not ready to shower praise on him like he is a king because he finally made a good move (see speedy claxton). This is what we should expect from him if wants to keep his damn job.

By Zulu

February 17, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, do you really think this one move by Knight is going to appease his hanging party? They have the rope and tree ready. Whose next? Plus, they haven’t gotten the thumbs -up from ESPN on the trade deal yet. Can’t wait to see the Hawks in action.

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

i’ve felt for sometime now that JS will be a HAWK after this year. he will get his big payday IMHO!!! and this trade confirms that, to me. because why would the BASG go and sign another piece of the puzzle ‘only’ to not keep a MAIN piece of the puzzle??? plus as Najeh stated so pointedly, the BIRD’s rights put the BASG in a position of strength when it comes to keepin’ one of its’ own!!!

JS is a game changin’ freak, flaws and all!! and for those thinkin’ sign and trade, i’m curious, who would you suggest as a suitable replacement(s) now that we are NOT shoppin’ for a PG in return too??? who at the 5 makes the lineup of MW, AH better than a lineup of JS, MW, and AH?? now MARVIN for a 5 that can hit the outside shot i’d understand. but JS, after the BIBBY trade, i would NOT get it…even knowin’ that HORFORD would slide to the 4!!??!!

and to add, do you really think BK would ship his #2 after havin’ just shipped his #5?? aaahhhhh, don’t think so!!!

By Volman

February 17, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Yeah yeah yeahs, you’re a dolt. Get a clue, guy.

Myk, I have no DOUBT IN MY MIND that Smoove will be a Hawk next year!

By Glenn

February 17, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop, in my previous posts, I tried to make the point, obviously unsuccessfully, that in my humble opinion, the trade took place because the GM passed on point guards for big men on previous drafts, and that even with Bibby in place, the Head Coach will not utilize him because he doesn’t know what he is doing.

On top of all of that, they also blew the expiring salaries they could have possibly used on potential free agents or working on long term contracts with Josh Smith, if they chose to do so.

I didn’t like the deal because it was too little, too late, the current coaching staff doesn’t know what to do with what they have, and it has cost the team some maneuvering room with the cap hey had positioned themselves for in the future. Is that clearer?

By Chris D'

February 17, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

It amazes me how NBA pundits often fail to realize the importance of contract management in regards to an NBA roster.

This trade was able to be done because the Hawks had reasonable contracts that they could deal. Lo Wright was signed for 2 years, Lue 3. AJ had 2 years left when we picked him up.

And to the folks on this blog saying we should pick up Magloire. Uh no. Why would we want that slow as hell worthless center when we have the potential rookie of the year at center.

By A-ville Ranger

February 17, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

Bibby is an upgrade for sure.He isn’t a great pg though and with the exception of a couple of playoff series he never was.A career 6 assist per game and low 40s shooter is mid-pack stuff.

By tony

February 17, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

most of u must be too young to know how many times this team made it to the playoffs. i rather have a new gm and hc than to see this team get knock out of the 1st rd of the playoffs-that is if they can make the playoffs. bk need to go and experiment with something else other than professional sports. pete babcock was a better gm than bk who at lease got players that was good enough to make the playoffs. if by chance we somehow make the playoff, that will keep bk around to keep screwing things up. we need magic johnson to replace bk and kurt rambis to replace mw…

By Traceman

February 17, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Glenn, you say that you understand the cap better than most but it is clear that you don’t. The only way this team was going to have the caproom necessary to sign a quality FA next year is if they did not resign Josh Smith OR Josh Childress. The salary cap for this year is $55.6M and it is not projected to go up much, if any, for next year. Before we made this trade, the max cap room we would have had next year would have been approximately $15M but that is only if we renounced our rights to Smith and Childress and it INCLUDES not bringing back AJ, Lue or Lorenzen. Assuming we resigned Smith, we were looking at having less than the mid level exception level money to fill out the rest of our roster.

The only negative possibility I see regarding this deal is if the ASG is unwilling to do what is necessary to resign Smoove and Chillz next year. We are clearly going to be over salary cap and our team salary for next season will likely approach the luxury tax depending on what offers Smoove and Chillz get in the off season.

By ray

February 17, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

I think everyone who is familiar with the Hawks knows that Woodson is still a problem. However, he’s probably being given one last chance with a quite-a-bit-better-than-average veteran point guard. If he can’t get the job done still, then there’s really no reason to keep him. If you ask me, he won’t get the job done. Funny thing is, if we do make the playoffs, is it a credit to Woody? I tend to think not, but we have the second half of the season to determine this.

I see we have an incredible collection of “extras”. Most of these guys won’t be around when the season cranks back up. As usual… oh well, the more the merrier…I suppose.

Ra’mon, where do you get this stuff? Really…

Glenn, I believe the retort is that what you said has already been said a thousand times over. Go back on this blog a couple years and see how much we’ve been arguing about the pgs that Billy didn’t draft. See the arguments about how his not drafting them resulted in signing Speedy Claxton (and how much of a failure that was). OF COURSE this trade is yet another result of missing on both all-star caliber pgs in the draft (and others). Trust me when I say that there is NOTHING you can say on that subject that we haven’t said already, more times than we care to remember.

Furthermore, having been around on this blog for the last 3+ years (and a Hawks fan for far, far longer than that), I’d say that “too little, too late” beats “nothing at all.” Nobody is hailing the Bibby trade as the trade of the century, decade (or even the season). Nor are we saying that it will get us to the championship (or the second round for that matter). We KNOW the coach sucks. Hell, the last 20 blogs alone are full of every kind of missile aimed at Woodson.

Here is where I disagree with you though: You say we blew the expiring salaries we could have used. Used for what? Are you telling me we should’ve just let the contracts expire, sign Josh (or both Joshes) and do….what? Don’t know if you’ve noticed, but we’re catching hell trying to get decent free agents to come here. What we did was trade the expiring contracts of players we were paying to do almost nothing (except for Lue and Johnson) for a player that 1)will make us better, and 2) is a much more attractive expiring contract than all 4 of the guys combined that we let go. Face it, if we keep Bibby, he’s a good guy to have. If we let him go, he’s a good talent that other teams would be attracted to (and the expiring contract is big). We were somewhat fortunate to be able to unload what we had (which I was worried wouldn’t happen) and pick up what we did, without giving up any of our best players. However, I realize you have a different opinion.

So, I guess my question to you is this: what would you have done differently, and how would it have been better for us? One thing is for certain: doing nothing at all is definitely worse. And we didn’t have any significant draft picks for this year’s draft.

By Nate ArchiBALL

February 17, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Two references were made to Jason Terry on this blog. How about a little history —- JT was drafted by Pete Babcock as a point guard. This was done without the input of Coach Lenny Wilkens, a Hall of Fame point guard.(Please remember no one ever mistook Babcock as a rocket scientist or the second coming of Red Auerbach - reference his free agent signings of Ken “The Snake” Norman and Blair Rasmussen) After a few weeks Lenny recognized and made the statement that Jason was not a point guard. Jason becomes a decent player with the Hawks but as a 6’2” shooting guard - probably the only 6’2” shooting guard in the league. Let’s fast forward a little…. Jason leaves the Hawks for the Mavs as the answer to their point guard question. After four seasons the Mavs are still trying to find a point guard…. Devin Harris and now Jason Kidd. So please, do not compare Jason Terry to Mike Bibby. JT is a shooting guard in a PG body while Bibby is a PG who can score.

By Astro Joe

February 17, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the impending trade of Hossa (and the rebuilding of the hockey team) played into the ASG’s decision to invest in the Hawks over the next 15 months? Last season, Thrashers went after vets for a playoff push and Hawks were left with virtually nothing, seems we have the inverse this year.

By Clyde

February 17, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this

This trade is good and bad for the Hawks. It looks good on paper but it has the potential of blowing up in our face. Here is what I like and dislike:

Likes: 1. We get quality point guard that score. Bibby will take a lot of pressure off JJ on the offensive end. This team lacked a floor general and Bibby fits the bill. 2. We got rid of some scrubs. I’m glad to see Lue and Lorenzen go. These two were just a waste of money. The only thing Lorenzen Wright was good for was 6 fouls in 5 minutes. 3. This deal frees up more playing time for my boy Solomon Jones. Sheldon Williams should have never come of the bench before Solomon. Sheldon Williams could be the biggest bust in Atlanta Hawks history.

Dislikes: 1. I don’t like giving up that second round pick. 4 Players should have been enough. 2. Bibby is going to make 14 million next year. Bibby is good but he ain’t worth no 14 million. With Speedy that could be 20 million next year just on point guards with health problems. How are we going to pay Chills and Smoove? 3. We got no help in the middle. Bibby isn’t going to stop people from coming down the lane for a layup.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By DarkRyder

February 17, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Sekou great interview on ESPNEWS today. For all the crap people want to give Bibby (typical bandwagon Atlanta “fans”) It was refreshing to hear how Bibby has never played with athletic wing players the likes of Smith, Marvin and Childress.

Any idea what BK will do to fill out the roster? Dale Davis or PJ Brown perhaps?

Remember the second half schedule is brutal coming out of the gate. If Bibby is really going to make the players play better then they’ll get tested early.

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

WOODSON should ask the NBA to level the playin’ field for him. HAWKS should be able to go with a short bench since he obviously does better when he has less choices!!!

By mykhalc

February 17, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

it’d be a win for ownership too!!!

By BA

February 17, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Time to give Billy Knight some credit. He just went from a high D to a low B. I am thrilled with this-Woody doesn’t use the bench anyway! I saw Williams and my heart sank-oh no, Marvin! But no, for some reason they traded this guy to us for dead weight and Shellhead williams! Of course, if Billy can pull this off, nothing would suprise me in the next couple of days. Billy Knight, please, don’t trade any of the starters or Chills. We can go with Horford at the five for now. Time for Pachulia and Solomon “blog celebrity” Jones to step up. By the way, no more complaing for the dreaded Shellhead pick-the man has recognized his mistake and taken measures to correct it. Could Bibby be our new Mcgriff?

By ray

February 17, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

DarkRyder, it will be interesting to see. I don’t expect anybody everything to gel the first night. And with the exception of Joe Johnson, none of these guys are used to playing with a point guard like this. However, I don’t think it will be a bad transition. Bibby will want to help. And he’s the kind of guy that other teams have to stop. You cannot ignore him. Is he known as a stellar defender? No. As long as he plays halfway decent one-on-one, and good team defense, we’ll get by.

The main thing is the ability to help put extra pressure on the opposing defense and provide good clutch shooting, particularly in the 4th quarter. That’s when we need it the most. When other guys are passing the ball off and JJ is drooping from being so tired…Bibby will be the guy who will step up. And who knows, he may inspire others to do the same…especially when his effectiveness and willingness to take big shots causes their scoring averages to dip…eh, Marvin?

Ken, don’t let Mike Woodson’s presence put a damper on your party! Where’s those rose-colored glasses you like to wear so much (nudge, nudge)?

Seriously, think about this: if Josh Smith (who is a young player) listened all the time to Woody, do you think he’d have developed into what he is now? How about Horford? These guys are living proof that bad coaching doesn’t guarantee that a good player won’t be able to play anywhere near his potential. Which is exactly why I scoff at anyone who says neither Roy nor Paul would be nearly as effective if coached by Woody. But that’s a whole other argument. The point is, Mike Bibby is a tough and talented veteran. If he does every single thing Woody says and forgets how to play the way he knows how…well then of course things will go bad. But he won’t. He’s a damn good player. When those guys start practicing together and find out what they’re capable of together…they’ll be loving it. If Woodson wants to hold that back…mark my words carefully now..watch his star (JJ) start speaking up like he did when he complained about a supporting cast that isn’t effective enough. Remember I said that. I truly believe that this will happen if 1) The players really mesh and start a better and more effective brand of b-ball, and Woodson steps all over it or, 2)they don’t make the playoffs…which probably means that #1 happened.

Remember…Billy Knight is a player’s GM…nobody says he’s a coach’s GM. You can replace a coach by firing him and promoting one of his subordinates. And that subordinate can replace himself with another assistant coach that’s a better fit. Much easier to do that (or even go find a HC elsewhere) than to replace guys like JJ, Bibby, Smoove…need I go on? Depending on what happens playoff-wise, Josh may not want to stay. And Woody might be one reason why.

By Ken Strickland

February 17, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

RAY-thanks for the encouragement. The only reason Jsmith and Horford have progressed as they have under Woodson is because he was forced to let them play through their mistakes. Woodson refused to allow ALaw, SStaudamire, SWilliams and SJones that luxury. Everyone seems to conveniently forget how SWilliams played at the end of last yr. He was given extended and consistent mins and played well enough to earn a player of the week award.

Woodson didn’t have any choice concerning Horford and Smith’s mins. But, in cases where he did have control of a players mins, he screwed up everytime. Zaza is the same player that produced his first few yrs. Since recovering from his injury, and the arrival of Horford, Woodson has been as inconsistent with Zaza’s mins as Zaza has been with his performances. The same holds true for Salim and Law. There respective inconsistencies are directly related to Woodson’s inconsistencies with their mins and how they’ve been used, or misused.

Last yr Woodson complained about our lack of rebounding and PG play. We solved the rebounding issue with the drafting of Horford, and now the PG problems have been addressed. He certainly can’t complain about the thin bench we now have, since he only played 7/8 players anyway. If we don’t have a good showing the rest of the season, Woodson will be gone for certain.

By Matt

February 17, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

You knew it would happen - you just knew it. Clyde would find things to complain about when it comes to a trade where the Hawks got a top point guard who was coveted by many teams and only gave up 2 mediocre point guards in the last years of their contracts, 2 frontcourters who weren’t getting any minutes, and a mid-2nd round pick that would have been spent on a scrub. I’m sorry man, but I don’t think any of your criticisms hold water:

1. I don’t like giving up that second round pick. 4 Players should have been enough. First, no one is going to be available 45 picks into the draft who would be worth anything to us. Second, you’re overlooking the pretty low current value and very low upside of the players we gave up. Considering that the only player with any upside who the Kings got back was Shelden, I would be amazed if the Kings didn’t also demand either Salim, Solomon, or a second-rounder in the package. Given those three choices, giving up a 2nd-rounder sounds pretty damned good to me. No GM could have gotten away with a better deal, and you know that some would have even given up a first rounder.

2. Bibby is going to make 14 million next year. Bibby is good but he ain’t worth no 14 million. With Speedy that could be 20 million next year just on point guards with health problems. How are we going to pay Chills and Smoove? Actually, one of the most brilliant aspects of the deal is that Bibby is worth 14 mil next year, and then hits free agency. Why? Because if he works out and leads the Hawks to the playoffs - great. If not, having a big contract to unload allows the Hawks to be a player in a blockbuster trade this time next year. Having that kind of contract on board will actually be a huge asset come the 2009 trade deadline if the Hawks need to make a move again.

Also, I don’t know if you noticed, but the Hawks will have no cap room to play with this summer to sign anyone but it’s own players anyway (see below). So regardless of the size of the contract, it’s no harm/no foul.

Finally, paying the Joshes will be no problem, both because the Larry Bird exception allows the Hawks to go over the cap to re-sign its own players, and because I think everyone here realizes that Childress is almost certainly going to be part of a sign-and-trade this summer, so we probably won’t have to worry about paying him anyway.

1. We got no help in the middle. Bibby isn’t going to stop people from coming down the lane for a layup. Man, what the hell do you expect?? You want the Hawks to solve every single problem in a single trade?? Many people around here, you yourself being one of the most obvious examples, have said over and over again that our two biggest weaknesses were at point guard and center. Our other big problem was that we lacked a reliable second shooter to take pressure off of JJ. So we solved two of our biggest problems without having to give up jack (I still can’t believe you’re complaining that we gave up a 2nd round pick). So I ask again - what did you expect? For Billy to get the Kings to throw in Brad Miller for free? Or for Billy to convert the deal into a 3-team trade where the Hawks threw in Zaza and got back Dwight Howard??

Geez, man. Billy solved two of the Hawks’ most glaring problems without giving up squat. If you’re still finding things to complain about, then it’s pretty clear that nothing Billy does will ever satisfy you.

By Matt

February 18, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

From Clips Nation - this pretty much sums up the reasons why this trade was great for us:

Let’s face it - from a basketball standpoint, the Hawks just got a quality point guard, who has had his best moments in the playoffs don’t forget, for a collection of spare parts. Sure, Johnson and Lue were playing some minutes for them, but that was the problem, if you catch my meaning. It’s hard to imagine that the Kings did not have any better offers. I mean, all they wanted for Bibby was some salary relief and a prospect or two, I get it. But Shelden Williams? He’s taken 96 shots this SEASON! And it’s not because he never got a chance in Atlanta - he was their starter last year. Maybe Reggie Theus can resurrect him, and goodness knows they could use a shot blocker in Sacto. But this is not much of a prospect. As for that second round pick, good luck with that. (If you’re wondering why Bibby didn’t end up in Cleveland, the Cavs just didn’t have the expiring deals to make it happen.)

It’s all the more surprising when you consider that Bibby’s contract is hardly onerous. Sure, he’s making a lot. But for the acquiring team, you’re obviously hoping for a lot of help on the basketball court, and it counts you nothing this season (since the outgoing salaries would have to match at any rate, give or take). Next season is the last on his current contract. So that would be the final year of a contract at $14.5M. Can you say Kwame Brown? If you need a point guard for a playoff run, Mike Bibby is practically risk-free. If he works out, then everything’s great. If not, you have a MASSIVE trading chip for next season. Where’s the downside?

If you want to read it for yourself, go here: http://www.clipsnation.com/story/2008/2/17/133447/408

By reese

February 18, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe, Billy Knight was also on 3D after dark around 7:30 pm on 790 the zone. He was in a very good mood and explained that he did not like a lot of the local media and that is why he doesn’t give a lot of interviews.

Dennis Scott did ask Billy Knight if anymore deals were going to be made. Billy wanted people to know that he is constantly on the phone talking with other GMs’. He may not be very talkative with the media but he is known as a talkative person among the other GMs in the league.

He said that he will be talking to teams up to the trade deadline. If something makes sense for the hawks then a deal will be made.

By reese

February 18, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this

Like others I like the small nuances that this trade has accomplished.

1)Forces Woodson to develop AC Law now because he cannot use the excuse of wanting to play his veterans.

2)Forces Woodson to develop Solomon Jones now and restore the energy he brought during his rookie season.

3)Forces Woodson to play Salim and devise a defensive scheme that hides his defensive weakness and create offensive schemes that utilizes his offensive skills.

4)Bibby solves the need for a point guard and shooter. We’ll see if he can be the leader that this team needs. They say that the point guard is an extension of the coach on the floor. Lets see if Bibby can teach Woody somethings.

5)The removal of 4 players forces Billy Knight to find a player to get the hawks to the minimum of 13 players. I hope that it is a big that has shot blocking ability, low post offense, is 7’0 or taller and has big strong hands that can palm the ball and not let other teams players knock it out of his hands.

6)We have the opportunity to bring in 3 more players. 2 of those can be 10 day contract players from the NBDL. It will be interesting to see if a player who has been playing regularly in the NBDL can be an upgrade from Mario West, Solomon Jones and Salim.

By Harry Hawk

February 18, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

For all of those who say Bibby has broken down, you have to realize that the man has played at least 80 regular season games seven times out of his previous nine career NBA seasons. Before this season, Bibby’s last year playing fewer than 80 games was the 55 he suited up for in ‘02-‘03. Before that, he played 50 in his rookie season. In other words, Bibby has been quite durable throughout his career. Unless Bibby goes all Speedy on us and is constantly injured, he should be a steadying influence night in, night out.

By reese

February 18, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know much about these big men from the nbdl, Chris Alexander, Cheikh Samb, James Lang, or Ian Mahinmi.

Chris Alexander seems interesting on paper. He is 7’1, 260 lbs, avg 10.4 pts, 10.1 rebs and 2.3 blocks per game. He is the only center in the NBDL who is averaging a double double in points and rebounds and averages more than 1 block per game.

By mred1943

February 18, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

I was just wandering if all the bk haters are still whining about marcus williams when the net don’t have enough confidence in him to even play him with the second unit.

By SalimFan

February 18, 2008 4:21 AM | Link to this

1) Bibby Was averaging 21ppg just two seasons ago. HE HAS A CAREER AVERAGE OF 16.4, AND HIS LOWEST SEASON OUTPUT OF 13.2 PPG WAS HIS ROOKIE SEASON. He’ll be fine. A change of scenery is all that he needed. Bibby, despite the hand injury earlier this season is in top physical condition. He may not have been able to use hat hand but he still ran and exercised. To call him washed up becase of that is rediculous.

2) Mike Bibby is younger than Steve Nash, Chauncey Billups, Jason Kidd, Allen Iverson, Kobe Bryant, and he is only one year older than Baron Davis.(Half of this group is getting better with age…Billups and Nash to be percise). My point is THE TANK IS NOT EMPTY HE JUST NEDED NEW TIRES TO RUN WITH IE: JOSH SMITH,JOE JOHNSON AND THE REST OF THE HIGH FLYERS.

3)Doc Rivers is the same coach he was last season just with better players this year. Nothing else has changed (Coaching Philosopy included)He just got player that actually could execut his plays. Point being THIS IS JUDEGEMENT TIME FOR WOODSEN. He has the tools now we will really see if there is any real method to his madness.

4) If it doesn’t work out with woodsen RICK CARLISLE is at the top of my list for potential coaches. He is a “No-Brainer” having coached 50 win teams in Detroit and Indiana before being let go each time (odd but not his fault…..at the time bigger names like LB were available).

5)Josh Cildress…although the hawks still haven’t found him a shooting coach to completely re-make the mechanics in his jumpshot. He is the best sixth man anyone could ask for. He is the glue for that second unit. I think getting rid of him in the off season would be a serious mistake for the hawks. There are tons of teams who wouldn’t mind having him on ther roster either.

6) some of you guys are really giving marvin a hard time. Cut the guy some slack, Chris paul played at wake forest for three years BTW he started each year. So he has tons more experience than marvin. Marvin came off the bench for one year at UNC. I think his progress has been amazing even though his development got sidetracked a little because of a broken hand.

7) And of course if Salim Doesn’t Get immediate playing time i’ll have the SWAT team waiting to escort Woody to a mental institution when the hawks get back from this west coast road trip. (you all knew I was going there sooner or later)

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 18, 2008 5:42 AM | Link to this

I know Ian Mahinmi’s rights are owned by the Spurs… and didn’t we try the James Lang experiment last year? But yeah, the Hawks need to find a big guy who can chew up some minutes.

By doc

February 18, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

salim fan, sorry your argument based on time in college is false info. paul out after two, so he didnt have that big a jump on marvin. nice try. paul also missed some significant time due to an ankle in his second year. marvin hasnt come close to his projected path as a one time in ten years kind of player that he was sold as by the hawks spin team.

By drmaryb

February 18, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

This is SO Great! In the back of my mind I was hoping Bibby would end up in the “A”!

It was the only good thing left out there, since J-Kidd ‘s deal was near complete this weekend.

And without touching my “Fab-Five?”

         **PRICELESS**

Now Mario West and Salim can move up that bench just like -

“GEORGE & WEEZIE”

Whew! I can’t wait to see this team transform…We needed a Veteran - Old School Point guard! A facilitator First and can get his own shot #2nd.

Can you say “Pick & Roll?” Now the half-court offense can GO!

It’s X-mas Boys & Girls! Thanks You Daddy - Billy K.!!!!!!!!

By drmaryb

February 18, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Can You Hear JJ now?

Now that man has got some back-court help! No more J-Smoove flying up the court with that ball in his HANDS see T.O’s. and High Assist numbers.

J-SMoove will still be the “The Stat-Stuffer” No- Doubt. But his assists will go down dramatically, because Bibby takes the ball out of his “HANDS”!

J-Smoove will show increases in his point’s and Alley-OOP-Dunks!

Great and DYNAMIC Move! Go-Billy Go-Woody! no more triple teams on “JJ”

By robdawg06

February 18, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

The Hawks need a scoring/defensive center now to complete the roster. Ben Wallace (I think) is the man they need. They need a rebounding machine to run the floor in transition with Bibby and J.Smith. Trade Zaza and next year’s #1 to the Bulls for B.Wallace. And sign Wallace to a 3 or 4 year deal right away too. Go Hawks !