Hawks

By mississippi

February 27, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this

SS,

strange blog late at night. Do you have some of the bipolar tendencies? It’s not fair to expect a basketball team filled with young men to be consistant. Maybe that is taking them off the hook some, but still, it’s not a linear processes. All of that said, it doesn’t mean that I don’t check this website daily hoping that a coaching change has been made. That is what happens in these situations, but for reasons that no legitimate and unbiased person can explain wholeheartedly.

By Clyde

February 27, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Thanks for keeping real Sekou. I’ve been saying the same thing for years now but people thought I was crazy. We need change and it starts at the top.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By RealSquawk

February 27, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

Thanks for speaking out about us hurt hawk fans

do you know the rules to nationally televised games?

By Peter

February 27, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

Well Daddy I’ll take my whuppin because I AM TOO STUPID TO LIVE. I thought that this year would be different. I mean in all honesty it is really a feat in today’s NBA to miss the playoffs for this long.

Let’s face it, two GM’s back to back who have made ABYSMAL moves, totally inconcievable.

I mean I just hope that JJ can still walk next season, let alone run. The idiotic ownership situation? Have you ever even heard of anything so foolish and hopeless. Mostly I’m sick of being called “not a basketball town”

Give us a team. It again seems…hopeless.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2008 2:26 AM | Link to this

Whoa! Did HB Ando kidnap the real Sekou and stuff him in a dark alley or something? I have never seen Sekou this down on the team. Can’t say that I disagree with anything said here though. And despite everything that’s gone on with this team, the Hawks really could make the playoffs only because the other teams in the East are equally terrible from top to bottom.

By cp

February 27, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

All I will say is It is hard being a Hawks fan

By defenseless

February 27, 2008 2:56 AM | Link to this

this is my first time writing and it’s sad man. I have been defending this group for three and some years and i can’t believe how hard it is to watch them now. i thought there was hope before now its just sad i can’t defend them anymore.

By SalimFan

February 27, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this

(Nods head in silence…)

By mykhalc

February 27, 2008 3:14 AM | Link to this

Sekou, i go back to your blog where your scout buddy broke down the issues with the HAWKS. the thing that sticks out for me is what he said about the team NOT havin’ a veteran BIG presence that JS, MW, and AH have to lean on and learn from. these cats are reallly on their own, especially when you consider the talent of the HC that does not seem to know how to scheme to the team’s strengths.

BIBBY will make a definite difference but too little, too late!!! but regardless of his presence, it still does not make up for SKILLED, veteran leadership from a BIG!!!

By mykhalc

February 27, 2008 3:32 AM | Link to this

and the plain and simple truth is, this team less BIBBY, has NO CONFIDENCE, game in, game out!! and the players can spin it however they wish, but it is EVIDENT that they really have NO CONFIDENCE as a team!!!! and i’ve said it before, their play and lack of confidence is a DIRECT reflection of WOODSON…PERIOD!!!!

it is the only explaination for them losin’ leads like they do!!! lack of close-out ability and belief in the ability to close out!!! WOODSON, himself, probably hands out the panic buttons at half-time!!

By SalimFan

February 27, 2008 3:51 AM | Link to this

I have to agree woodsen does not look very motivated or enthusastic about anything. Whenever he’s talking to a player you can tell it’s in a pessimistic tone. You can always see the doubt and digust on his facial expressions whenever anything negative happens on the court.

I will say that wood sure knows when to call for timeout.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2008 4:06 AM | Link to this

Well, one thing I will also add is that there is another explanation for the Hawks losing: because their last five games were on a West Coast road trip playing against teams who all have better records than them and who all face tougher divisional competition.

I’m not making any excuses for the team. I have been complaining about the same issues most of y’all have too. But let’s keep that in mind for a second. No East team is gonna do that well when they face a 5 game West Coast trip like the Hawks just did. Now if they continue sucking against the likes of the Knicks on Friday, then we are in serious trouble.

This team has major issues, no doubt, and Sekou summarized them pretty well. But even if they sneak in as the 8th seed with a .430 record, I’ll be happy. Why? Because more than anything, I don’t wanna see Phoenix get a lottery pick. Not only will that add insult to injury, but there’s a good chance HB Ando and Clyde will go on a murderous rampage as a result. I’m still willing to hold out hope that the team as currently constructed can manage to make the playoffs.

By tb

February 27, 2008 4:22 AM | Link to this

Once again I have to disagree with you Sekou. It is absolutely normal for us all to expect improvement. If it doesn’t come from the current bunch, then the next step is to make the appropriate moves to change the course. You do one or the other or you risk doing very mong-term damage to the team and the franchise.

It is clear that nearly 100% of the communications I see from the fans are understanding this and calling for Woodson’s job. It is normal for him to be replaced based on the results. BK isn’t far behind.

Some of you recent arrivals are also part of the problem. Igrew up in ATL from the late sixties and followed and pulled for the Hawks since then. New arrivals come in with the attitude that things started when they got here. Take Sekou for instance; he arrives as an out of town reporter geting a job. he “discovers” the Hawks and starts a relationship witht hem. there is the normal cycle of adaptation; trust, confidense, sharing… Then the problems and realities start to show and things turn ugly.

Well some of us Hawksfans have been here forever. I’ve moved, but I’ve never abandonned my home town teams.

To be held hostage by a new administration of out of towners is also trying. What did BK and Woody care about the Hawks before getting HIRED to do a job? Does Sekou have the same connection with the Hawks as the collage football team that he talks about all the time?

It’s all business. The fan is duped into supporting a symbol instead of players that become and remain ATLans. Don’t call for Woodson or BK’s job, that’s politically incorrect. Well isn’t it politically incorrect for these out of towners to come in here and hi-jack our Hawks?

I have no reason to adopt or accept these guys into my vision of the Hawks. Easy come, easy go.

We want winners, we want someone to come in and be successful. We are hiring hired guns and we don’t expect them to get the team “all shot up”.

By The ASG

February 27, 2008 5:56 AM | Link to this

Dear Fans, what exactly do you want? Lose 3, win 1, lose 4 more… What’s wrong with that? Our coach has a winning percentage over 30%. That is really good, and we plan on bringing him back. It may be 30.6%, but like I said, if we are winning over 30% of the games, then we are really happy, and you should be too.

Forget about road games, I don’t think they count the same.

We also like to make excuses, so that is another reason that we love our current head coach. It doesn’t matter that he can’t use the players he has, he still hasn’t had the chance to coach a full roster since Speedy has been hurt.

Don’t get me wrong, out of the 9 owners and 8 other people who report to us, there are a few differing opinions. But for the most part, if you want an organization with a clue that cares about winning, we simply aren’t it. And don’t worry, Sekou, nothing’s going to change anytime soon.

By The ASG

February 27, 2008 6:05 AM | Link to this

I forgot to add- we love a coach that looks as stupid on the sidelines during the game as the results he produces when the game is over.

By Pete

February 27, 2008 6:39 AM | Link to this

Damn dude!

By doc

February 27, 2008 7:04 AM | Link to this

yes hope springs eternal, even after blog z talks. there is a real possibility that the team can finish strong enough to have a significant improvement in their record from last year. maybe kool aide, only none of us here can control it but the players and coaches themselves. it is time they look again deep into the mirror and find out what is truly there, promise or reality.

looking back this has been the perfect season to make an improvement where they survived and even thrived on an early season schedule that most of us thought they would stumble upon only to fall flat when the time to reap their rewards came. now after a very difficult stretch they are really no where close to being significantly improved on last years record that was exclaimed to be because of injuries or even the year’s before that was labeled as one where they were too young. the frightening reality of all this is that they have done it almost on the wave of a season where there have been no significant long term losses because of injuries and most in good health. wasnt that one of the criteria to see a rise? what has been the result the same old stuff, there has been no significant improvement from the debacle of three years ago.

yep maybe we are better and they will finish strong. however, the guys that really ned to look hard at themselves for the firs time is the BASG that continues to drink the strongest kool aide of all thinking that this team as it is configured is worthy to call to all “it has arrived” as it did after the lakers game. no, with each move they show they are really just fans like ourselves with no clue except they got the money to deserve to an an nba franchise. the only apparent decision they have made was to fire the president so they could be closer to the decisions. that is a scary thought.

well the hawks are really at 23 wins as i concede the miami game as a win. 27 games left to go and is anyone confident the team can finish at better than .500? that would get the team above the 36 wins that many that dont drink the served up hawks kool aide served around town predicted as the high water mark this year for the team. we should know soon enough as any string of losses means we are as done as i said they were after the charlotte game and it is time to see if there are any other combos that havent been tried this year by woody that might work including playing two big guys side by side. face it, josh is not the second coming of marion and horford not the second coming of amare this year nor any time soon. we are not at that point of development.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

SPEAK FOR YOURSELF!!!

BLAME YOURSELF!!!

Do you even read this blog Sekou? Every day there are about 100 comments begging for Woodson and Knight. Now after 4 years of making excuses for them now you want to blame everyone in the entire city for the Hawks failures instead of blaming the the people actually responsible. You are part of the problem, you and the rest of the idiots who write for this rag. As for me and the vast majority of the fans, including the ones who post here every day, we have BEGGED FOR THESE CLOWNS TO BE FIRED FOR A LONG TIME!!! Don’t try placing blame on us.

WHAT A JOKE!!!

By Casey

February 27, 2008 7:26 AM | Link to this

I remember when they hired Billy Knight. I said “WHO THE HELL IS BILLY KNIGHT? WHAT QUALIFIES HIM TO BE A GM? DID THEY JUST PULL HIS NAME OUT OF A HAT?” But, did anyone at this newspaper even question it? NO! I said the same thing when they hired Woodson. Did anyone at this paper question that? NO! I have lived here all my life, and I have never seen a GM and coach lose as much as these two have and get a free pass from the media in this town. I remember Mike Fratello Stan Kasten winning 50 games a year and reading Terrence Moore and Mark Bradley begging and pleading for them to be fired every day. This is ridiculous. I wonder what it is about these two guys that is different from all the other coaches and GMs who have been tarred and feathered by this newspaper. Hmmmmm.

By St. Bernard

February 27, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

Sekou, Be happy there’s enough of us here reading your blogs and reports to keep you working.

By Joe Bland

February 27, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY!

I’d rather have Pete Babcock back that this jackleg dolt Knight.

By kwooden1

February 27, 2008 8:02 AM | Link to this

This first time I’m hearing signs of resignation from Sekou, I’m definitely surprised! At what point in the Spurs game did anyone think the Hawks were in a position to win. I started listening to the game at the 2nd and they were up by ONLY 11, it doesn’t matter that the Spurs scored only 5! It was a bad offensive game for both teams, but the Spurs made more shots. The team went 1-4 on the road trip, as many predicted, but now it is time to show-up or shut-up. I don’t like Woody’s coaching style (I don’t think he does anything during the game), but he’s given everyone “some” time during the last few games. I believe it is up to the guys to get themselves to the Playoffs and I believe they can. The teams below them and immediately above them are not any better than them (I believe the Hawks are better, especially with Bibby) I see the next two games as HUGH in building confidence and getting them to believe. I’m not at all saying they should expect to win any game because they are better than the other team and look down on them. I think they should expect to win because if they play the way they are capable, they should WIN! As fans we should expect the team to play to their potential every night and they should expect nothing less from themselves. I think most of us on the Blog are saying the same thing about Woody and if what we have seen for the last few years is the best he can offer than I believe their is better out there.

These guys are ball players and this is their time to show what they can do. There is no reason for us to expect they can’t compete with Philly, Jersey, Milwaukee, Chicago, etc for two spots in the Playoffs! Tell me I’m crazy if you want, but I can’t see them not getting one of those spots!! I believe they are better than all of those teams and it’s time for them to show it!

GO HAWKS!!

By Willie Coyote

February 27, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

Damnit!!! I’m buying the Hawks! I’ll just need to pass the collection plate around a few hundred thousand times to get the appropriate funds. Now when the plate gets to you, just remember, I’m glad to get the kind that jingles but I’d rather get the kind that folds.

Oh, and as bad as things have gotten, it is not as bad as when Babcock was the GM. He successfully turned a playoff contender from sugar to sh!# and had a balanced roster all the while. He traded #21 for # who the hell cares, and when he left and Knight took over, there was nothing to do put tear down the rest of the debacle that was the hawks at the time. Now Knight has definitely not gotten the job done but he, my friends, is no Pete Babcock.

By DemDems4Ever

February 27, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

Salimfan@3:51

Actually Woodson does not even manage time outs very well.

In the Detroit game, which the Hawks had a real opportunity to win late in the 4th quarter, Woodson called a 20 sec time out with 2:23 left and the Hawks with the ball. So what you say?

If the Hawks continue to play and allow the game clock to go under 2 minutes the next dead ball produces a FULL time out for Detroit and as a bonus the only full time out Detroit could call in the last 2 minutes. The Hawks would have still had a full and 2 20’s while Detroit would only have the 2 20 second time outs.

As usual nothing positive resulted from the 20 Woodson called so opportunity was lost and so were the Hawks.

One of the small details lost on the Hawk coaching staff and trainer who are responsible for this type of error.

By Dan

February 27, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Sekou

Wow! Great blog!

Reading this makes me feel even more stupid for renewing my season tickets, especially after a price increase!

By Sekou K. Smith

February 27, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Y’all get to play the doomsday card every single day around here, win or lose.

I don’t have to be Mr. Sunshine every day. Time is running out for this team to get it right. Every game on the schedule is a must win game if they want to make the playoffs. Every single game.

After all this time the only thing anyone can be certain of is that this thing doesn’t work. Check the record, man. This just ain’t working!

By DemDems4Ever

February 27, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

Willie @ 8:12

Lenny Wilkins was responsible for the ‘Nique trade and that playoff team you remember was exposed as old and slow by the Knicks in the playoffs.

The Knick guards picked up Blaylock and Smith in the back court and completely shut down the Hawk offense. Meanwhile on defense Mookie and Steve had to wait at the top of the circle, inside the 3 point line, because the Knick guards were just blowing by them.

Mookie, Steve Smith, Shareef and Theo Ratliff were all exposed in that playoff series as being past their prime. Steve played sparingly with the Spurs championship team but did any of the rest ever contribute to a winner?

J.R. Rider was a mistake (huge mistake?) but the trades still needed to be made.

By richbrave

February 27, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Did anyone think of this? Ticket prices jacked-up during a losing streak( well, one win sandwiched around several losses on each end). Is the ASG trying to get people to stay away so they have an excuse to move the team? Just a thought.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

It’s not like it’s a good thing when Woodson calls a timeout. Every time they come back from a timeout or halftime it’s a disaster. They would be better without timeouts.

What do you think Woodson is saying during the timeouts and halftime to make them come back and play worse than they were before?

By The King, baby, THE KING!

February 27, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

Well, Sekou, it’s nice to see you (finally) coming to your senses … although it would have been ever nicer if you had the (basket)balls to call out some of the players on an individual basis. (I know, I know - that ain’t how Scoop does it.)

Anyway, I wonder how many of the self-proclaimed geniuses who post here still think that:

• Joe Johnson is a legit All-Star

• Josh Smith is an “untouchable” player that you build your franchise around

• It’s all ZaZa’s fault

I won’t even mention Mike Bibby’s status as a future first-ballot Hall of Famer. I mean, that’s a given … right?

By Bravesfan79

February 27, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this

Willie Coyote: wow, for any GM to be called worse than the guy who traded away Dominique Wilkins in the middle of a playoff run is pretty bad!!
PeteBabsuckacock will always be on my list of most hated sports people!

I think the leadership (GM and coach) is a perfect example of equal opportunity gone horribly wrong!

Owell, on to a REAL team, the Houston Rockets have once again been struck by bad luck. It seems every year either Yao or Tmac gets hurt. This sucks as im very loyal to my teams. Braves, Falcons, Rockets.

How about Mutombo tho…the guy could be 50 and STILL go out and dominate on defense!! Mutombo and Tmac are definitly my 2 favorite players in the NBA!!
no rapist Kobe, no overhyped Labron for me.

By roan st

February 27, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I agree with everything you said with the exception of us fans drinking the kool-aid. Most folks on this blog put the kool-aid jug down a long time ago. If asg has any leadership or guts, woodson and knight will be gone at seasons end.

By smartguy

February 27, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

“You’d simply have to show the game tape for them to comprehend how this is even possible to continue like this in such a futile manner.” IMHO, if you watch enough tape, you’ll see that Mike Woodson is the clear and consistent explanation.

“how in the world could a team that continues to lose games from ahead?” Again, its an easy answer. Mike Woodson is how. He decides before the game who will play in the fourth quarter. It doesn’t matter if a player has been on fire for three quarters, Woody may still take him out for the fourth. He also likes to slow the game down, when we really need to keep our foot on the gas all the way through the final buzzer. His use, and misuse (as stated above) of timeouts in critical situations has cost us many games. Add to that, the only play he ever calls out of a time out is an iso for JJ, which the other team can see from a mile away, and undoubtedly ends in subsequent failure. Sometimes, Woody is even fighting with his assistant coaches during time outs, not to mention his relationships with the players.

Legler and Anthony also said that the Hawks are the most talented of the teams in contention for the final spot. I have said repeatedly that we have, and have had, more than enough talent to win. ITS MIKE WOODSON THAT IS THE PROBLEM. Hire Steve Smith or let Larry Drew take over. Mike Woodson is ridiculous.

By smartguy

February 27, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

86.73% (621 votes) on AJC’s Hawks homepage think the Hawk’s problem is inadequate coaching. Is anyone listening over there at the ASG??

By yessir

February 27, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

Let’s Go Hawks!!!! The season starts tonight. Fire Clyde!!!!!

By Kevin

February 27, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Just say what we all know you want to say Sekou… Fire WOODY!!

By RA

February 27, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Well gee Sekou, don’t be bashful. Tell us how you feel.

By Astro Joe

February 27, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Sekou, you better be careful or you’ll end up being reassigned like your colleague Matt W. Wasn’t he the one run off by Mora and sent to the college ranks? You don’t want to be assigned to the Georgia State Women’s bowling league for stating the truth so emphatically.

Doc, I see the Thrashers traded Hossa for Bibby. LOL. One pot of money. Last year, little Thrasher got the candy. This year, Hawk received the prize from his parents. Next year, I’m betting little brother Thrasher gets some love. Alternating parental support. Kincade mentioned Thrashers are around 27th in payroll in NHL. Guessing Hawks are probably around 25 with Bibby. So despite a top 10 media market, both teams operate in the bottom 10 of their respective leagues.

By kwooden1

February 27, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I agree their not West Playoff worthy but the East!! You can’t tell me that Philly, Jersey, Milwaukee, Chicago, Charlotte are working!! We all know the organization is going to have to change first before any really change is going to occur. Bibby was a nice move and I will believe it will work out in the end, but all of that is irrelvent, because players have to play right now. And right now they have a good chance of making the Playoffs, even if they play 50-50 ball. For this year, just see that the goal is in reach! We can’t change the past, CP3 and DWilliams are not coming through the door, neither is last year’s rookie of the year! But, the opportunity is their for this year they need to take it! I agree though it still doesn’t change the fact that the organization is a mess.

GO HAWKS!

By Chuck D

February 27, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

“The season starts tonight.” No, actually we are ten games under .500 and 1 1/2 games out of the playoffs. Thats the same attitude that says road games don’t count either.

By Billy Knight and Mike Woodson

February 27, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

FIRE SEKOU!!!

By Chuck D

February 27, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

“The season starts tonight.” No, actually we are ten games under .500 and 1 1/2 games out of the playoffs. Thats the same attitude that says road games don’t count either.

By TS

February 27, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

The 1st thing I did after moving back to Atlanta last year after living in NYC for 9 years was buy Hawks season tickets. What a mistake. I don’t care if they make the playoffs as the 7th or 8th seed; unless they make a run and make the 6th seed, I’m not coming back. Woodson has a solid roster to deal with, and if you can’t make the 6th seed in the crappy East, you gotta go.

By BufordTJustice

February 27, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

The Hawks will never be better until they hire a white GM and a white coach. Look at the teams that are contending in their respective conferences….white GM’s and coaches. There might be a token black guy thrown in there somewhere, but they are few and far between.

By Hoosier

February 27, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Sekou, you know you should never blame your customers, or else they do not have to buy what your selling anymore. If people did not have expectations do you think they would be reading your tripe anyway?

I’ll bet you do not have the guts to come out and write an article about where the blame really lies, that we have the worst coach in the NBA. Instead you want the fans to take on blame for watching. Wow! Now that is some New Age stuff there!

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

“Check the record man.This just aient working!”….. Well the man has a point our record speaks for itzself. Nevermind about the ASG debacle,lack of coaching or draft day misfires….. this just aient working. Everyone knows Mike Woodson is a below average coach,but some of the responsibility has to be put on the players.We just find a way to lose winnable games,also we dont play smart at times, nor do we play with that fire. Our team isnt made up of guys with high B-ball IQ’s IE.Detroit/SanAntonio, we have a team of yung athletes. If there is’nt a good coach in place (Nate Mcmillan,Byron Scott) this is a recipe for disaster.

Sekou I feel your frustration,before the season I thought we would be much improved,but as we kept losing winnable games I saw my team for what they were -athletes with no direction or guidance- How do u explain the Seattle Loss or the Clipper loss with 8 bodies in uniform. Whatever it takes to put a winning product on the floor im all for it even if that means trading some of our core players not named Josh or Al. Sekou: Whats really up with this tyrade at 2am-never heard you go ape shyt like that, are u disgust4ed with the team or did your booty call cancel on you? Should have called me dude, I woulda had ANGINA WILLIAMS and a bottle of petron to you in minutes ……Keep hope alive hawks nation…MUS

By Serge45

February 27, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

SAVE THE DATE! April 18th, day after the last game, the Atlanta Sprit Super Press Conference. Get your tickets now! All GMs and coaches will go!

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

We need to milk the shot-clock a little bit? WTF!

By JMar

February 27, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Sekou has the right to be as frustrated as the rest of us.

By Big "O"

February 27, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

For a young,improving team, I think you need to be able to note signs of marked improvement. The last 2 games with Utah and San Antonio, the Hawks played GREAT!—-Did you REALLY expect them to win those? Of cours, NOT!

But, now, Bibby and the team have 5 games under their belts and a little practice time. If the Hawks can only win the remaining games they’re supposed to win(like Sacto tonite) and produce a few upsets along the way, they’ll be fine and make the playoffs. I, for one, think they will do it and, with a little luck, they might possibly advance to the 2nd round!

By SalimFan

February 27, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

TS, I was just going to say the if the hawks can make it back to .500 in a reasonable amount of time then we could really have a shot at the 6th spot. Washington cannot keep this up without Gilly.

It’s also evident that some of the starters are gassed. We need more playing time for the bench (for better or for worse). If they can come in and have a solid ten good minuets each half, then I have no doubt that the starters can come in and finish the job.

By Hoosier

February 27, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

JMar, you are right, I re-read the article and agree with the overall tone.

I do believe though, that if you want to accomplish something from a vent like that, you need to start somewhere with someone, and I think we all know who that Someone is.

I used to cover the Hawks under Hubie, and I remeber him calling out the beat writer Cunningham in a press conference, and telling him he had * for brains. So it would be professional suicide for *Sekou to call-out Woodson. I guess we all need to understand that.

By randy

February 27, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Even when this team had a winning record, I knew they wouldn’t be able to keep it going. Good teams will blow out teams that they should blow out. Hawks haven’t blown out anyone this season, even when they were up by 20+ at some points in a game. They ultimately blow leads and play down to their opponent and either lose or win by a couple points. Lately, we have seen who the Hawks are. Losers. They are what we thought they were. How in the world is Woodson still coaching this team??

By A Thinking Fan

February 27, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Just an ole fashion broken spirit around the ATL…

By SalimFan

February 27, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Big “O” What about the fact the the jazz and the kings just lost to teams that stink far more than we do. I’m referring to minnesota and the Miami Heat. BUT they are on THE ROAD NOW. Just hope the hawks can dish a little payback.

By SalimFan

February 27, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Big “O” what about the fact that The jazz just lost to the Timberwolves and the Kings just Lost to the Miami Heat? Two teams that are clearly NOT better than the hawks. Maybe their is something to this “I have an excuse to play like crap because it’s not a home game thing”?

Well at least the hawks can redeem themselves with one of many much needed wins tonight.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

……..?

By Jo Bling

February 27, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

The Big O is right. You people are unbelievable! A week ago when the Bibby trade was announced some of the same people on this board who are now b*** and moaning were brimming with excitement. Just one week ago the energy and enthusiasm was palpable.

What happened? The Hawks went 1-4 against the best teams in the West after unloading four low to moderate contributors and installing a new leader at the point. That’s a pretty major shakeup. So what if they went 1-4? Did you expect anything different? I don’t think so. A week ago everyone was saying that realistically that was about the best they could expect. Maybe two wins. So, now that it’s happened, why is everyone suddenly jumping out of buildings? Look, now is not the time to moan. The timing of the trade was just terrible. Let’s acknowledge that and move forward. It’s still a great deal for the Hawks.

It’s really about what happens now. There were a lot of positive signs out of the last couple of games. It’s time for this team to put together a nice winning streak. If it doesn’t happen now, then, yes, it will be time to b*** and moan. Then - not now. Let’s not proclaim all is lost because we just went 1-4 against the best of the West after making a substantial shakeup to our roster. Get real people! It’s what happens from here on out that matters.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

The man has a point………. “this just aient working” We all know Coach X is well below average,but some of this has to be directed twoards the players.

We find a way to lose winnable games. Seattle and the Clippers game were just inexcuseable-8 bodies in uniform- come on. It seems like these guys are on auto pilot playing not to lose instead of taking it to the other team.

The real problem is we have a collection of yung athletes and not high IQ ball players IE.Detroit/San Antonio……. when you dont have a good to great coach leading your yungnz that can be a recipe for disaster. Whatever it takes to put a winning product on the floor im all for it even if that means trading away sum core players not named Josh or Al.

Sekou: Whats the real reason for the 2am tyrade? Did your booty call cancel on you at the last minute? You should have called me, I could have had DIMPLES and a bottle of Petron to you in minutes -trust me bro. u aient neva eva seen sexxy like this-next time-I got u

Buford t Justice: There may be a hint of truth to what you say,but there are bad GMs,Owners and Coaches that happen to be of the caucasion persuasion. Donald Sterling comes to mind and lets not forget Kruger and Stotts who were’nt much better than Coach X…. Does’nt matter if the higher ups are pink and purple so long as they get good players and put a good product on the floor.

By RA

February 27, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Okay Sekou,

Listen, here’s the thing. You can tell us in all honestly that we should be ashamed for expecting them to do better. Fair enough, God knows, but you have NO right whatsoever to tell fans that they cannot hope for their team to do better. When my grandfather was on his death bed, he had my father prop him up so that he could watch the Atlanta Braves. This was in 1986. Now were they going to win many of those games, no! I think they won a grand total of 72 games and finished 6th in their division, but he watched every game until he died that September. That old man had followed his team for the better part of sixty years from Boston, to Milwaukee, and finally his dream came true when they came to Atlanta. He loved his team and he had every right in the world to hope that they would do better even though even as late as 1990, there was no reason for any one to expect it.

My thing is this Sekou, somewhere, maybe in Atlanta, maybe somewhere else, there’s an old man that’s watched this team from St. Louis to Atlanta and hopes that they’ll get better. Maybe unlike my grandad he’ll live to see that hope realized. Either way, I’m not willing to take that hope away Sekou, are you?

By Willie Coyote

February 27, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

DemDems, I don’t believe Shareef was on the team when they last went to the playoffs. He came in ‘01 and I think the Hawks last went to the playoffs a couple of years before. You’re right though about that team being old and slow. Those last Hawks playoff teams were great defensively but they really lacked an effective shooter (to go along with Smitty and Mookie) in addition to the aged roster. that’s why they couldn’t get by the Pistons, Pacers, Bulls, & Knicks during the 90s.

You’re also right about Lenny having a lot to do with the Nique trade but Babcock was still the GM and the buck stopped with him. I really wasn’t a fan of Lenny Wilkens either. It’s great to be a good defensive team but you still have to score to win and that is why there were a couple of years when they should have made the finals and didn’t.

By Angry Tim

February 27, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

WOODY IS A CLOWN!

WOODY IS A CLOWN!

By Ramadan

February 27, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Can we just hire the Sports Guy Bill Simmons as our G.M.

By ugaman

February 27, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Here’s the deal. Woody won’t allow the team to run, therefore nullifying whatever advantage we have against less athletic teams. Even JJ is now saying that they sould listen and slow things down wen they have the lead. Well, why change what got you there? In every game the Hawks have won, they got the lead by playing fast and running. Now, when they get the lead, they want to slow it down and paly to the other team’s strengths, which ultimately allows them to wear down the Hawks on the defensive end, pass them on the scoreboard and leave the Hawks scrambling to try and firgure out how to run a half-court offensive set (which they don’t have a coach to teach them how to run a half court set). The only way the Hawks win is when they run, run, run, hence their ability to win against Golden State fairly easily. They also did this when they beat Dallas, Pheonix and others earlier in the season. When they slow down, they suck, and now the coach is telling them to slow down when they have the lead. What a moronic thing to do as the coach. It’s almost like they can’t handle success, so the look to keep the game close by playing to the strengths of the competition. The players are tuning him out and losing heart. We need new leadership now or this whole season will be a waste, not to mention the acquisition of Bibby. Bibby excels in the open court. If we’re not going to run, we might as well have kept T-lue and Johnson. Nothing changes with tis stubborn and overmatched coach. Someone, please listen to the fans. Remember, without the fans, there is no revenue to build a team with. Without revenue, you’ll never get good players to come here or keep your good players. They will go somewhere else who has a good coach and fan base and become perennial all-stars. God help us!

By Hawksville Resident

February 27, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Well said RA! If being a fan of a team during the extra lean times makes me wrong, then I’m guilty as charged. I agree we should fire Mike Woodson, but you’r not going to tell me not to root for my team..Go Hawks!

By CDS

February 27, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

When you have a culture of losing like the Hawks have had ever since we traded Steve Smith and Mookie Blaylock, it will always show, no matter what. These guys are used to losing now, and every rookie that we get from a winning college team quickly learns this as well.

As for the current situation, I truly believe Philadelphia and New Jersey are about to run away with the 7 and 8 seeds. This franchise doesn’t deserve to make the playoffs. I don’t blame all of the players as Josh Smith, Childress, and Horford come to play every single night. We’re overpaying Joe Johnson for what he actually accomplishes on the court, and I’m still waiting for this “Superstar potential” that sold Billy Knight on Marvin Williams. They haven’t shown me that they really care about winning because any halfway sane NBA team would’ve fired a coach like Mike Woodson two years ago.

I agree Sekou. In a time where the Falcons have become an embarrassment, the Braves continue to struggle, and the Thrashers get bounced out of the playoffs by a low seeded team, we were fools to believe that this Hawks team had actually changed enough to give us hope. But now, I don’t even want them to make the playoffs. It will more than likely fill Billy Knight’s head with thoughts of keeping his good friend Woodson.

By EJ

February 27, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

I’ve said it before and I will continue to say it. If the Hawks make the playoffs BK will give Woodson a 5 year contract extention and we will have 5 more losing seasons. Be careful what you wish for.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Good post RA- I feel your pain bro.,as a young boy a friend of the family took me too my first hawks and falcons game. Ive been a hardcore fan of both teams since that day. The guy is no longer with us,but the happiest i remember him is when we were just kickn back watchn the games -win or lose.

When Vick and the falcons won on Lambeau field -I saw something in his eyez that i will never forget….. I know our teams are’nt of championship caliber but sum day we will be and the years of waiting will be worth it.

By MannyT

February 27, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

I think Dennis Green said it best a few years ago. They are who we thought they were! commercial version

I can accept being wrong about the 41-41 season. However, the disappointment comes in the failure to adjust to the talents we have. As long as the staff takes a going down with the ship attitude, the ship will go down!

Had the coaching staff stuck with the running game and ended up here, I would put it on BK to make something happen.

I am not sure what the owners do here aside from call their pals and say I own a NBA/NHL team and you don’t.

The tough part of all of this refusal to adjust, is that it will cost owners money, administrative people jobs/reputations, players money & opportunity. All the while fans lose enthusiasm for the team.

Could be worse, could be Seattle…the next NBA team to leave for another city.

All that said, as a season ticket holder, I do want to see how we finish the season.

Volman I’ll be looking for you in 303 tonight.

By Nookah

February 27, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

Guys,

Who on earth is going to come here to coach this franchise with this ownership situation in place? ASG has to take a large part of the blame. Look, it’s like any other organization in the real world, if the head of the stream is dirty then what do you think will flow down?

Come on guys place the blame squarely where it should be. I’m not saying our players should be completely exhonerated but ASG has to get their house in order. Until they do that they will not be able to attract any good free agents and or coaches. JJ was an abberation.

As a Hawks fan I feel tortured.

Come on Spirit, get Belkin to the table, settle the dispute by any means necessary, then fire Billy and Woody and get someone Drew. Sorry that’s a fau paux, I meant new.

Nuff respect!!!!

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Buford T, the 2 BEST teams in the East have either a black head coach or GM. Color does’nt have a thing to do with it. IDIOT!

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Buford T, the 4 BEST teams in the East have either a black head coach or GM. Color does’nt have a thing to do with it. IDIOT!

By randy

February 27, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

Damn, Phoenix should be getting a good first round draft pick next year. Wonder if they will pay homage to Billy Knightmare by drafting a 6’9” forward.

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Buford T, 7 out of the 8 top teams in the East have either a black coach or GM, and the Nets are partly owned by a black man. Not that it has anything to do with it, I just hate to see a dumbass comment like that. IDIOT!

By JoeDumars

February 27, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Buford T : time to get off the internet buddy. Your WT meth addicted wife needs to call her black pimp.

By Eternal Optimist

February 27, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Buford T your an idiot and IMUS write your’re dumb for even attempting to agree with him. It’s people like you who are destroying this country and keeping that ole Jim Crow mentality alive in the 2000’s.

By myopinionis

February 27, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

As a season ticket holder and a huge NBA fan first and foremost, I have to say the Hawks are a team talented players. I can guarantee there are coaches from other teams slobbering over some of those guys. I get so tired of watching the games, seeing players getting pulled in and out and the most inopportune times. The coach calls timeouts when it’s not necessary and doesn’t when it is. JS turns over the ball because he decides to go coast to coast instead of rebounding and giving it to the pt guard. During clutch time, the “shooters” aren’t even in the game. The starters sit on the bench for long periods of time, til they are ice cold. Everybody on the team making “Rookie Mistakes” because they aren’t being coached. Them not running plays, period. Worst closers in NBA history. (Woodson’s fault) They DO need a veteran and a leader. Bibby and JJ are neither. Both are talented players but Bibby couldn’t get Sacramento into the playoffs and well JJ is a role player at best. Don’t get me wrong cuz I’ve seen JJ rise to the ocasion but not on a consistent basis. Get a new coach, a veteran, and a star.

By BOSLICK

February 27, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

what happened to the “big” that we were gonna get off waivers???————maybe from new jersey?———-is that dead?

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Bibby could’nt get Sacremento into the Playoffs. WHAT?

By doc

February 27, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

aj, yup.

concerned to about blog z’s back.

did i read between the lines to see follow the money?

the divorce made me do it is the best excuse.

By Wellll

February 27, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

This is all for ENTERTAINMENT. I want to see high flying dunks pretty shots, heart, hustle, GOOD damn decsions and adjustments made. All for the common goal of winning. BUT its NOT going to happen. These guys, this organization are pro’s or should be. The product on the floor is NOT is not what people are paying to see. But yet, they raise Ticket prices. I get so mad when I hear people on the street , tv everyday life dogg the HAWKS. But why?? This is a pro team. If they STINK they STINK. This whole organization needs to be wiped clean. The HAWKS remind me of drunk who stops drinking, then you find a bottle of Mint gin in the car.Same ole shiet. Please quit calling for certain players to play and coaches to be fired. It doenst matter. We could have Lebron and Phil Jackson and would still be losing. The fact is the team is BAD and the losing is like a terminal disease. They care about 2 days out of the month the 15th and the 30th. Period. I say FIRE the whole team, owners and the water boys. Mr Smith the locker room practice break room must really stink now. Now if Steve Smith and Bob Rathburn call the HAWKS out too on LIVE TV we know its REALLY over!!! They will win a few sprinkled games here and there but the damage is done. Hell they may even win tonight. But I wont be there! Just tired of it!! Rant off.

By ray

February 27, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Hilarious. It’s obvious some people don’t know the difference between Sekou Smith and Blog Z. And why should you not expect “controversial” or unsettling words from a sports writer? …you know you should never blame your customers, or they don’t have to buy what you’re selling anymore.. What exactly are you paying for here, besides the right to use the internet? The blog is free, the articles are free, and the opinions are free (thank GOD). Has it occurred to some of you that an article (a blog article, no less) might be written to illicit a response? Ha ha ha ha haaaaa! Some people….oh, and some of you fresh-to-the-scene need to look through the archives on this blog. You’d be surprised what you’ve missed. Then again, it may not do any good for SOME people…

Jo Bling, where you been? Seems like we’ve seen very little of you lately. Don’t worry, you’ve not been forgotten. In fact, I’ve watched several people call you out in the last blog or two about your boy Marvin. I can’t imagine why you didn’t answer. And here you are ready to throw water on people because they are disgusted at a horrible road trip. Heh…let’s talk about the greatest player ever to wear a Hawks uni…Marvin Williams! Heh.

By thecamera

February 27, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

before the season, the common thought here was that the hawks would win 38-40 games and fight for a playoff spot.

as bad as the hawks have been, they are still only 1.5 games out of the last spot in the playoffs, despite little chance at finishing with even 38 wins.

that says a lot about the east, and a lot about how far the hawks have fallen. (i blame it on charley rosen at foxsports as the day after he wrote an article about how the hawks turned the corner, this latest downward spiral started).

blame whomever you’d like because they are all responsible to some degree.

the questions that should be asked here is this:

what team are the hawks trying to become? because right now they are a poor man’s version of the washington wizards.

this off-season SHOULD be critical, as the answers to the following questions should be the most important:

• does the organization have the players who are, or can be, championship quality?

• does the organization have coaches who are, or can be, championship quality?

• does the organization have management that is, or can be, championship quality?

does anyone really have confidence that this questions are being asked or even addressed?

alas …

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Whoa!!! who turned out the lights….as im sitting in my cubical-I thought the lights went out but as i look up I see Miller and Hawes 2 of the tallest guys Ive ever seen. Couldnt help but notice Brad had his right hand heavily taped,so i asked if he would be sitting this one out….. he replied that he would be ready at tip off…….. DAM -O well hopefully it will slow him down ,but if not we can still win…. lets go get this one HAWKS !!!

By ray

February 27, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Volman, in regard to the comments on the last blog: I got you, I was just agreeing. Truth is, I was getting distracted myself at the time. Trying to reason with someone on a point, didn’t realize what I was dealing with, LOL!

Preston, wait for it….wait for it…let’s see if he answers the call-out THIS time….heh heh!10 to 1 he doesn’t, or says something absolutely ridiculous. But hey, I like a little stick-poking every now and then. I’m such a devil.

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

If we lose at home tonight, Woody should be fired after the game!

By Clyde

February 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

I knew Billy was a fraud when he help Detroit get Rasheed Wallace. They went on to win a Championship while the Hawks are still stuck in the mud. Hey Sekou while your on a roll can i get a FIRE BILLY AND WOODY?

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By tyger

February 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

“Reality is a Mofojo”

Although, Hawks only 4-5 games out of playoff race, with 25 or so more games to play, they just dont play with the “intensity” required to win big in this league.

4 years later they are still a work in progress and have a lot of good pieces, but not a lot of victories to show for it.

Long term they look good: young, athletic, with good pedigrees. Theyve got Bibby now, although hobbled, which bodes well for the future. They never addressed the center position, but they did rehap ZaZa.

They finally tweaked the roster, but have to adjust to their new roles and its going to take time, which they dont have, so its next year, again.

And my biggest concern throughout the trade season, was even if they Hawks made a move, would Woody even play the guys?

Bibby is a no brainer, Woody cant not play him, but why is Solomon still stuck on the bench after trading two bigs and looking smaller than ever on that West Coast trip?

Is Solo the new Shelden? Even short handed, Woody maintains his dog house, is it time for him to live in it?

Hawks score 4 pts. in a qtr. and shooters Salim and Richardson barely see the floor. Enough is enough.

This season is a wash, but Hawks cant go another year like this. He doggedly stuck to his NBA roots and sank or swam with his money players, and they let him down.

By cerberus

February 27, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

The first thing this team has to do to start winning is get big AL more involve in the offense. his is not getting any plays call for him, JJ smith and the likes have to stop taking so many jump shots, and woodson has to go to coach school or resigned as head coach.

By BOSLICK

February 27, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

who gives a s—— who the coach is————lets get the players———-jettison so. jones and west and get 2-3 real bigs———who needs a 1 min defensive wonder or a SERIOUS bench sitter?———————-I dont care where you get the bigs———d-league —-waivers———-whatever ————-we need some people to clog the middle(lol just stand there)——and let our talent do its work——i.e.———smith,horford,chills,pachulia,——————————let’s go hawks —-get it together———-we need a GM that will respond to the needs of the team——————————-bibbs was the 1RST step!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ray

February 27, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

I’m waiting to see how we do now that we’re back in the east. Of course, with teams like Boston and Detroit, it doesn’t matter…they’re clearly better than us…and half the west on any given night.

I get the bad feeling that we will only get more confirmation that Woodson cannot get the job done with a good veteran pg, either. He’s already saying all the wrong things. “Milk the clock” indeed…I can’t stand this guy…

By Luis Malave

February 27, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Sekou K Smith hit the nail on the head. Nice piece! I feel so dissapointed that Woody is still the coach, taht I can’t even begin to say. Quick fix to be able to get in the playoffs right now is fire Woody and try to sign Magloire. I don’t understand if they went out and got Bibby, which was totally the right thing to do, they don’t take advantage of the opportunity to grab a big man like Magloire. He is expected to sign with Dallas, from what I last heard. I can go on all day giving legitament reasons why we should have a coaching change, but we also have to think about the players playing together and creating a better passing game. Why do you think Phil Jackson has had so much success with the triangle offense? It creates a better flow of the offense, which we totally don’t have. Lets face it we have a lot of talent, but we have to work towards our strengths. Marvin is good when he is driving to pick up a foul or when he is set on a mid-range jump shot. He is terrible when he tries to post up and fade away. Josh Smith is great driving to the basket and the occasional three, but he sometimes settles for the mid range jumper, when he should continue to attack the basket. Childress is great on the baseline, picking up the garbage and cleaning up shots. Don’t make him your pg, because he does not have a strong jumper. Joe is a great player when he is “on” but he should find a better way to contribute when his shot is not fallen, as opposed to forcing some shots. He should drive with the intention of getting fouled. He should be able to do this 90% of the time. A very simple play would be to spread out the floor with Bibby on one side and Salim on the other, and perhaps a guy like Jeremy Richards on the coner. that woul create some space for Joe to go one on one and if he does not have anything, he would still be able to kick it out for a three. Nobody in there right mind would leave Bibby or Salim to double-team Joe. If you look at the start of the second half against the Spurs, you can probably count as many as 6 or 7 turnovers. Thats not going to get it done. They have to take care of the ball. Points off turnovers will kill you every time.

By Jo Bling

February 27, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Hey Ray,

It’s pretty clear what you are all about, so I shouldn’t be gratifying you by taking the bait. That said, I think you really are confused so I’ll try my best to help you out.

I haven’t said much of anything about Marvin Williams on this blog or anywhere else - except one recent response to a question YOU posed. I’ve had a couple of long-running exchanges on this board regarding my doubts about Josh Smith, but I’ve never advocated for Marvin Williams, much less called him the savior of the world. I think it’s pretty clear to everyone that he’s a major disappointment, so I really don’t know what the hell you’re talking about.

I think you have confused me with someone else, so I would suggest you stop misrepresenting me and go stick your nose someone else.

By DarkRyder

February 27, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Sekou has joined the dark side…I was wondering what took you so long to join us. First Ando, then Clyde, myself, and now you… …..Anakin Joe will join us soon and then it will be complete.

By Luis Malave

February 27, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Can you guys imagine how Salim would play if he didn’t have the pressure or the uncertainty of whether or not he is going to get some minutes or if he will be pulled when not producing? I think that he is a great weapon that just goes to waste every night under the direction of Woody. He is the type of player(shooter) that in a comfortable environment can really flourish. Anybody remember Vinny “The Microwave” Johnson?

By Luis Malave

February 27, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

I wish that the hawks commentators would be honest about the terrible job that Woody is doing. Steve Smith and Bob should be more honest and call the game like it is instead of sugar coating the fact that Wooddy does not know what he’s doing.

By BOSLICK

February 27, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Is anyone responding to MY comments—————-lets deal with what we have to deal with ————————you guys are somethin———————-(20 year hawk fan)——————-

By CFT

February 27, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

BOSLICK Nice “Mad Libs” blog! [http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20060901174020AAL0O4y]

By DarkRyder

February 27, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

I began my transformation of that goody-goody Ryder a long time ago, as I forsaw the end of all hope that reigns here in Atlanta as many of you were still crying, believing that the Hawks could salvage the season.

This is the apex of bad decision making by the GM, horrific timing (knowing they were going on a six game road trip, they should’ve made this deal in January) and a coach who is STILL overmatched before the game starts.

I felt what you were saying Sekou about what happened against SA the other night. When Atlanta was up at halftime my wife (who doesn’t even watch basketball) was shocked that the Hawks were up on the Spurs, ON THE ROAD. I told her that it wouldn’t last long and that the score would be 57-49 by the end of the third quarter, Spurs leading.

What happened? Sure enough, Spurs go on an 11-0 run and the score was 57-49!

In order to beat the Hawks all you have to do is this:keep the game close going into the break. Then go on a 5-0 run in the beginning of the third quarter and instantly Atlanta begins to get out of rhythm on offense. Turnovers occur, they force bad shots, and from there teams can begin to coast.

Why you ask? It’s because Woodson and the players don’t know how to make adjustments like smarter teams do and try to rely too much on jump shots.

Atlanta is a team you can always punch in the mouth and they will retreat. At least when the Wizards went down by 11 to a healthy Hornets team they didn’t panic. They attacked the basket and switched up defenders on Chris Paul. As a result they were able to stay in the game and won at the end.

Tonight watch as Atlanta will go into the break with a 7 point lead against Sacto. What will happen is that the Kings will come out with Artest on offense in the third and he will score two consecutive baskets and bully Josh Smith around. As a result Atlanta will get nervous and will end up falling by six points (the home crowd will keep them somewhat in the game).

A common theme to watch as Atlanta finishes what has been a most embarassing season.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Eternal optimist -Eat dik……you dont know me -im not one to follow the masses -I have my own thoughts and opinions about certain things……../ Like i said there may be a hint of truth to what was said wether yall like it or not…. did I agree with him no i didnt so shut the f******* up……… as far as me being dumb -I laugh at you -you accomplish the things in life i have by being dumb…… dummies cant walk in my shoes -so i guess you will never put your foot in my size 13’s…..maybe you meant to say your momz was dumb… every time i see her she’s on her back spread eagle. Dam atleast she should get paid … dumb bytch cant even trick right…………………………………………Excuse my french to all the regular guyz and gurlz here….. another troll just popped up tryn to call me out for my opinion. Casey -you wouldnt be double posting as eternal optimist would you…..

By RA

February 27, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

No,stop there must be. Sekou, to me you must listen. Frustration leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hatred leads to bad blogs. Do not underestimate the power of this losing streak or suffer Bradley and Moore’s fate you will. Listen, always in motion, the future, even master Legler can’t see the fate of this team. If you abandon them now, relief you may find, but you will destroy all for which true fans have fought and suffered. Sekou…there is…a…no..ther playmaker….

By DSLIM

February 27, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

SEKOU,

After speaking with some of the players, they cant stand playing for coach woodson. Bring out the truth, with what is really going on behond closed doors.. what is woodsons longevity as the hawks coach?

Get him out of there, he is not the right fit for this group, and the players dont play hard for him.

Sekou, you are out inside man, you travel with the team you are close to the players, coaches, media, etc. tell BK to and try and fire him…

By ray

February 27, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Jo Bling, heh heh! Perhaps it was another Jo Bling, then. You’re still off-base on Josh Smith (I seem to recall the “other” Jo Bling comparing him to most unfavorably to Marvin-but perhaps my memory is faulty), but hey…like I said earlier the opinions are free. Bait? You mean the bait set out to get a response from you? Oh you already swallowed that….you probably didn’t even taste it…much like the bait blog Z put out for this blog. Heh!

By LA Hawk

February 27, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Sekou, You’re beginning to reflect the denizens of your blog…posting an out of character rant, oh, let’s see - about 7 minutes after last call! I love it!!! and I couldn’t agree more.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Jo Bling, nice to see you resurfaced my man. Stay on board the train,alot of the post’s are redundant…. i was looking for you to add some spice and contreversy….life aient complete without a little drama

By G.Rhone

February 27, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

To all the Billy Knight haters:

He has made the necessary moves to get “OUTSTANDING” talent that has shown that they can beat anyone at anytime, but still, some are wanting him fired…???

TRADE PACHULIA AND FIRED WOODSON!!!! NOW!!!!!

By dakid

February 27, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have no one with a classic game. No true position. And that’s what your gm wanted. For those who called for Josh Smith to play the 3, you’re out of your mind. No mid-range game. No handle for a 3. Turnover waiting to happen. Al and Joe are only true players for a position. And Al is out of position at the 5. Joe has to go to basket more, on nights his shot is struggle cause our idiot coach has ran him to the ground. But he doesn’t get calls like he should either. But ref’s don’t respect losers, nor do the respect our village idiot(Mike Woodson). We don’t have a draft pick in one of the deepest drafts in memory, thank you Billy. Marvin is a European basketball player, flabby, no heart, not tough, and he was suppose to be a superstar. Billy smokes crack. And i bet the farm Billy gives Josh a max deal.

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Ray you are on a roll today

By ray

February 27, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Jo Bling, forgot to mention one thing: did you read one of my most recent posts about being a stick-poking devil? Yeah…appears that you don’t know what I’m all about…or even what I’m about some of the time. It’s fun ‘cause it’s so easy. Doc and I do it to each other all the time. It’s even more fun when Ando is around. Ah well, a sense of humor should be appreciated in dark times like these…

DarkRyder, Woody will get nervous and start “milking” the clock. I can’t wait to see the back of his head, ‘cause I’m SO tired of seeing his face on the sideline. Same with Billy, to be honest. I still like the trade for Bibby, but it was later than it should have been. Still, I’m glad we ended up getting him. We just can’t keep on with this “we’ll make one move…then we’ll be okay” type of attitude. As for Artest, he’ll bully Marvin first..then Smoove will have to guard him.

Speaking of Marvin, I realize why it is that Josh can actually take people off the dribble (despite not being able to dribble) and Marvin can’t. Josh has a good first (and second) step to go with his athletic ability. Marvin’s skis just cannot move quick enough. Doesn’t matter if it’s offense or defense. Just watch him tonite, you’ll see it. Well, if he’s brave enough around Artest to do anything besides pass the ball, that is…

By tony

February 27, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

the hawks r going to win the nba championship

By BOSLICK

February 27, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

no one wants to talk about the current state of affairs—————-they just want to fire everyone———————-not gonna happen——————get real people—————————respond to my comments——————

By ray

February 27, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

I.Mus, I can’t help it. I’m bored and there’s always drama here of some sort. Besides, if a guy can’t recognize a simple elbow in the ribs….

Normally I’d rather talk b-ball, but the game isn’t on til 7. I want to see how our team does now that they’re back home (and back from the west). To be honest, I have been of the opinion that we won’t make the playoffs (mostly because of Woodson). We could still get in due to our weak conference. However, if that means Woody stays, then I’d rather lose. Yeah, it’s really that bad! This guy can’t take us anywhere, and it’s obvious that if we made the playoffs, it would be in spite of him. Billy is a whole other matter. I see the BASG (to borrow from Doc) keeping a loyal employee like him around for a while. However, even that could change if he screws up more stuff. The Bibby trade makes him look good for a few minutes, even if the timing wasn’t great.

We’ll see. One game at a time. And a big summer coming up, like it or not.

By ray

February 27, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

RA, that was a good one. I had to stop laughing at Jo Bling to laugh at your post!

I.Mus you’re on a roll yourself. You sure do light up fast.

By joe

February 27, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

sekou = best MF beat writer in the bis

joe j. = acting like a 16 year old girl who p** that she picked the wrong prom date

josh smith = shaun marion 2.0 (puts up good numbers in the regular season but NEVER and never will live up to the hype in the playoffs) aka basketball IQ 0.6

woodson = wuss…for the sole reason that stan van gundy stands up to the best big man in the game (howard) in his first year as coach while woodson never calls out josh smith for taking game killing shots

owner/gm = dumb…once the league changed rules 3 years ago you must have a good/great PG to win, everyone got the message but the hawks until its to late

bibby - washed up…

josh childress - great 25 minute player on a winning team one day…do whatever to get off of the hawks (see spurs, mavericks)

marvin williams - who knows???

By dakid

February 27, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

People are calling for Billy to be fired because he misses more than he hits. We have Bibby, but could’ve had Paul or Williams. Why would we have to get Bibby if Acie was the player they sold us on. Then we could’ve used that to trade for a big. We trade a second rounder for AJ. You know how many players drafted in second round come back to kill us. Craig Smith just owned us inside. Look at Laundry for Rockets. Big Baby. Milsap in Utah. Joe Johnson trade. Didn’t have to give up anything because Phoenix wasn’t gonna match. They are trading away salary before Shaq deal. So they wouldn’t have 4 max deals. Stat, Nash, Marion already or was approaching deals. Marvin, go back to beggining. Speedy Claxton. Trying to sign eddie curry for max deal. Kenyon Martin to max deal when he couldn’t score in post, only in transition, but with no point how would that help. He got credit for building Memphis, now look at them. They stink, and so does Billy.

By ugaman

February 27, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Tonight is goig to be more of the same. We will start off slow, take the lead in the second after we panic a little. Third quarter- Artest will muscle his way around and go to the basket at will. We will have no answer, the coach won’t make any adjustments and we will lose by ten while Woody stands there with his mouth dropped open and make us slow the basketball down.

By Ken Strickland

February 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

If Woodson is unwilling or unable to recognize and accept that a problem exists, he can’t or won’t resolve the problem. His post gm comments after the Spurs loss makes that very clear. How can he possibly have a clue if his idea for improving an anemic OFF output is to milk the clock more? How does that address the problem of excessive turnovers, or poor outside shooting? How does that improve a poorly designed OFF that forces too much dribbling and one on one play?

If Woodson can’t recognize that a particular problem exists, how can he be expected to address it. And even if it’s brought to his attention, his ego then becomes an issue(see Salim). At this point, I don’t blame Woodson for what he’s doing to this team as much as I blame the owners for allowing it to continue happening. I’m giving BK a pass because I know he can’t make a move without the approval of our fractured ownership, both Belkin and the Spirit.

By smartguy

February 27, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

You guys, Jo Bling’s mancrush was on TLue. I figured he had been sulking since Tyron was traded.

PLEASE FIRE WOODY PLEASE!!!

By I.MUS WRITE

February 27, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Yeah- Ray itz all good…eternal azzwipe got under my skin for a hott second but im back now. Itz amazing how sum people think race actually makes you a good or bad coach gm etc….. That is garbage-itz all about the individual and his qualifications… I could go further(affirmative action) and get some folks mad at me but I wont.

By dakid

February 27, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Joe you killing them. Lol. And Ken you are right about ASG but Billy still has intent to make the moves. Woodson still is a cancer, grown man with grudges. He is hurting the team. I heard all summer we don’t have a weak player on team. We have 13 nba players, but you don’t use your bench. They blow smoke up our rears.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

The Idiot twins may have mixed up the kool-aid, but you’re the one who’s been pouring it all these years.

By James Banks

February 27, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Tell people to stop begging for someone (Woodson) to get fired right away! Since the Court must see the team operates in a fiscally responsible way until the ownership case reaches a final disposition, no one will be fired between now and the end of the season. Mike Woodson’s contract, and the contracts of his assistant coaches, expires at the end of this season so there is no reason to terminate anyone now and take on extra expenses; especially since his top assistants wanted to leave before the season started. Whether or not they make the playoffs this year, change is clearly needed if the goal of winning championships will be achieved. To that end, I propose three steps that will move this team in the right direction.

1) Create a “winning” culture. Embrace and honor those retired Hawks who are synonymous with the winning traditions of the franchise; regardless of how rare or infrequent the winning may have been. Everyone’s heard of Laker pride or Celtic pride—it’s time to create some “Hawks pride”.

2) Hire an experienced head coach with a history of winning (Brown, Van Gundy, Carlisle, even Fratello) and assistant coaches who can teach young players.

3) Address the roster’s imbalance. Center is the weakest position on the team and there is no one for whom you can trade—unless you want Eddy Curry. So, sign Centers Primoz Brezec (some offense), Francisco Elson (some defense), and Patrick O’Bryant (potential), 3 fair-to-middling, legitimate 7-footers who won’t be mistaken for a dominant center but should be relatively inexpensive free-agent bargains, and good complements to play with Bibby at the 1 with Law as his back-up, Johnson at the 2, move Smith to the 3 with Childress backing up at 2 & 3, move Horford to the 4, with Pachulia as his back-up, and have Claxton, West, Richardson and Jones fill out the roster. This does leave the question of what to do with Marvin Williams and Salim Stoudamire. Stoudamire is a free agent who probably wouldn’t re-sign. Clearly, Williams has talent and has shown the potential to improve but he lacks the aggressive/assertive mind-set necessary to become a dominant player and may never live up to the pressure of being picked ahead of Paul or D. Williams—especially while he’s in Atlanta. Sending him to a Western Conference team like New Orleans, Denver or the LA Clippers might be the best thing for all concerned.

Any thoughts?

By THE Hawks Fan

February 27, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

We need Defense!! We are a “HOME” team. No doubt about it. The thing about it though Phillips may empty tonight. The HAWKS need a jumpstart and he is on the BENCH. MARIO WEST! Come on Woody,lets his energy drive you tonight. Winning cures everything. Lets WIN this DAMN GAME!!! Goooo HAWKKS!!!!

By cp

February 27, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

What is most frustrating is seeing Mike Knapp make the same mistakes he was making his rookie year coaching. Im sorry but how can he not have learned anything the past 4 years. Im so sick of him and his post game cliches that I wish they wouldn’t interview the guy anymore. The East is horrible and we still have a shot at the playoffs but with Mike Knapp at the helm I just don’t see it.

By Imus

February 27, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Hawks are a bunch of nappy headed hoes.

By JerryWest

February 27, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

No Sekou. You just snapped.

Most people here saw both the positives and the negatives.

You had to act as the King’s poet for professional reasons. I wonder why you suddenly became a rebel.

I guess you have seen revolutionary posters on the wall. Is change really coming?

By DarkRyder

February 27, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

James Banks good thoughts but one question: Where will Atlanta obtain the money to sign all these Centers you speak of when they’re almost above the cap?

The only way to reduce any finances would be to either trade Bibby for expiring contracts after the season or do a sign-and-trade with one of the Joshes for multiple players.

While they can’t let Woodson go now at this point in the season without eating the rest of his contract I do think that they will let him go once they are mathematically eliminated from postseason contention.

In the event they make the playoffs then they will probably sign him to a one-year extention, then we’ll be right back at square one next year.

By Tiger Woo

February 27, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are a horrible road team. As a result, losing the following winnable home games earlier in the year is coming back to haunt the Hawks:

Nov. 11 - L vs. Washington, 90-101 (Washingtom was winless at the time)

Nov. 16 - L vs. Seattle, 123-126 2OT Damien Wilkins goes crazy - scores 40)

Jan. 5 - L vs. New Jersey, 107-113

Jan. 11 - L vs. Washington, 98-102 OT (poor free throw shooting down the stretch)

Jan. 21 - L vs. Portland, 109-111 OT (lost game at the buzzer)

Feb. 8 - L vs. Cleveland, 95-100 (Cleveland missing several key players)

If you add those six wins, the Hawks are in good shape for the playoffs.

By Hawknomore

February 27, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this

The only way to fix this team is for the fans to take control. A boycott is called for. When we don’t show up or buy tickets maybe they will get the message. What a joke for a franchise. PLEASE FANS, BOYCOTT!

By drmaryb

February 27, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

Hey RichBrave

What’s up man? Wow! this blog sounds like a funeral on here. Who died?

This blog looks like a battle-field..and everyone on here looks like a - landfill of casualties.

It’s really funny to me, because basketball is just entertainment it should be a fun past-time! When, it stops becoming fun? You should find a new form of entertainment.

I like basketball and all sports really, because it’s a great way to take a break from serious stuff like saving lives and paying the bills!

I actually like the Hawks chances coming down this home stretch, because we did make a blockbuster trade without giving up too much. It doesn’t exactly make up for the #1 pick going to phoenix, but let’s face it guys…we don’t need no more kids on this team. We need some Kurt Thomas’ and a dennis rodman type player. we need some veteran role players to come in and spell the #4 & #5 bangers who tend to get in foul trouble down on the post! Of course we also need a #5. But look at phoenix, they got good old dependable SHAQ…our five doesn’t have to be a Yao Ming for us to win a title!

Win or Lose - Let’s have some fun! Remember, there’s a WAR going on in the real world..This Basketball Blog can and should help take our minds off that!

The HAWKS will be fine - Folks! They’re all MILLIONAIRES!

Hey RichBrave - I miss you baby!

By Chad

February 27, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Tell it like it is Sekou. I’m not even a real fan of the NBA but I do check in on the team from time to time and they have been frustrating the heck out of me. Joe Johnson does not look like a happy camper to me. I can only assume that he is frustrated with the coaching staff. I thought his demeanor would change when Bibby was brought in but I haven’t seen a difference. SMILE JOE, at least you are bringing in the che$$e. SEKOU I FEEL SORRY FOR YOU*because you have to witness the same train wreck over and over. The rest of us can turn the just turn the channel and go about our business.

By formerhawkfan

February 27, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

You are right Hawknomore. The fans can take control of this franchise. If they start to feel a $ crunch they will realize the fans have had enough and are not taking it anymore. The Hawks absoutely #$%^. Who does Bill Knight have a picture of? Thank God for the Braves! At least Atlanta does have one franchise with class.

By fudd21

February 27, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

James Banks I disagree with you and many others on here who feel that we should move Josh to the 3. Are we going to have him, Al, and the new center all on the low blocks? There is only so much room for 3 post players unless you are suggesting making Josh more of a perimeter threat. Oh God please NO! As it stands now at the 4 he usually has a quickness advantage and can take other 4’s to the hole. He chooses or Woody allows him to shot jump shots. If he moves to the 3, his ball-handling or lack thereof, non-existing jump shot, low basketball IQ, and questionably on-the-ball defense will all be more exploited than they are now. His turnovers would probably double because he would have the ball more in his hands than he does now.

I think Al would make an easier transition but I still have some questions about whether he could defend the 4 for 35 minutes a game. I just dont know if the lateral quickness is there.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

G.Rhone,

I don’t have a problem with the players the Hawks have. They are not the problem. Knight should be fired for hiring his butt buddy Woodson and refusing to fire his lover after he has lost more than any coach in NBA history.

By Hoosier

February 27, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

ray, I believe you were quoting me. If you read a couple of posts down, you will see that I admitted I misread the blog, in a big hurry. I agree with Sekou’s approach 100%, he has taken a bold move today, that will cost him points with Woody. Therefore I think he knows Woody might be headed back to Hoosierland, where he belongs.

By James Banks

February 27, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Combining the mid-level exception, the with the money not spent on Stoudamire, should allow them to offer Brezec & Elson $2.25 million/yr. contracts and a $1.5 million/yr. contract to O’Bryant. They would be over the cap but not in danger of the luxury-tax threshold.

By MannyT

February 27, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Different starting line up tonight—Marvin is out w/flu.

I think you tinker with things and go big up front to start (Zaza, Al-ROY, JSmith). You cannot run it too long this way because of Woody’s short bench, but it would make the Kings think a bit longer about the lineup and allow you to mix and match on Artest.

What say you dark siders. Maybe the force is using the flu to make something different happen.

By Tiger Woo

February 27, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Patrick O’Bryant is buried on the bench in Golden State - just what the Hawks need - another bench warmer.

By Gypsyjoe

February 27, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Only 10 players tonight. maybe that is because we are about the only team that is going with not a full 15 man roster. That is realy smart. I can’t belive how hard it is.

By drmaryb

February 27, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Hey, I don’t think Marvin should be a starter anyway…he hasn’t earned that spot with his play or anything that I can see. I think we should start J-Chills anyway, he’s a very consistent scorer (he reminds me of Reggie Miller and Rip Hamilton) without the jumper. I actually, think josh has a very consistent jumper but because of his role on this team (no plays called for him) everything he gets he gets on his own with smart play! If he was asked to shoot? he can do it at a high percentage (68.6% current FGA) ..we should start him ahead of ZAZA tonight…Marvin being out may be a PLUS (addition by subtraction).

By Casey

February 27, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this

cp,

I agree with you about Woodson. Knight is the same way. Every time they open their mouths words come out but they don’t say anything, or if they do it’s something everyone already knows. It reminds me of Charlie Brown’s teacher.

Wauw waaa wah wah wooo wau waw.

By Ken Strickland

February 27, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Do you guys remember the last time we were down to 10 players due to key injuries? We won 5 consecutive gms because Woodson had few decisions to make about who to play. Maybe history will repeat itself starting tonight. Let’s hope so.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

DarkRyder,

Actually, the Hawks are below the cap.

see: http://hoopshype.com/salaries/atlanta.htm

It’s a “soft” salary cap anyway. They are about $50 million below the Dallas Mavericks. I don’t claim to know all the ins and outs of the salary cap. But, the bottom line is the Hawks can spend a lot more money if they choose to do so. They don’t. Their projected payroll for next year is even less than this year, as well. Without Speedy Claxton they have another $6 million to spend, for starters. If they trade Marvin “Invisible Man” Williams, that’s another $6 million.

By drmaryb

February 27, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

The HAWKS just scored 40 points in the first quarter & Bibby has 6-assists.

Without Marvin! I’m sorry but he should not be a starter on this team

Mario West? now your’e talking! ;o what brought him here - should put him on the floor! He would be a starter on a Pat Riley team based on sheer effort plays & attitude alone! We really do need a championship coach because all the talent in the world is on this team!

By Don!

February 27, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Guilty.

I honestly thought that this was a 42-win team at the beginning of the season. And I even thought of 45 and dreamed of 50 when were three games over .500 in January.

But reality is a harsh mistress, and she’s slapped me in the face just like Robin Givens did Mike Tyson. Seriously, the Hawks have given us the Givens’ treatment this season.

Looked good. Check.

Good enough to give a commitment and money to. Check.

Showed signs of being unstable. Check.

Dumped us hard. Check.

Took all our money. Check.

Sigh, I’m about ready to get a bad facial tattoo and go on the next edition of The Surreal Life with Carrot Top and Vern Troyer.

That’s how this year’s hawks have treated me. Just like Robin did Mike.

And, just like Mike, I deserved it just for believing it.

Later,

Don!

By terrell barron

February 27, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

If Smoove throws up another jump shot, I’m going to scream!

By Casey

February 27, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

MannyT,

Woodson doesn’t have a short bench. He’s just to stupid to use it.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are playing better without Invisible Man.

Childress should be starting, West should back him up, and Marvin should take his $6 million dollar salary elsewhere.

Trade Marvin for a real center.

By mrprozach

February 27, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

I completely agree with Casey, Chill gave the Hawks the offensive energy that Marvin seems to completely suck out of the team. Marvin needs to play Salim type minutes and Mario and Chill need to alternate as the 3/2 and the 6th man.

By preston

February 27, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

What’s up fellas….had a loooong work day……looks like I missed out on all of the fun here…..as much as I want to add to some comments that I have read……I’m too freakin tired… p.s. Did we have a Jo Bling sighting tonight? or was that an imposter?

By itwi

February 27, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

Is it true that Marvin has been playing the past month with an injured wrist?

That would certainly explain his inefficiency.

(And I remind you goldfish that Marvin’s improvements early in the season were essential to the Hawks’ success).

By yghs

February 27, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

i think everyone should give marvin a break as i read earlier today he has had a wrist injury for about 3 weeks now but he still went out and played without complaining which joe johnson wouldn’t with his winy faces. like itwi said marvin was the key to the hawks success earlier in the season. i do agree though that the way he has played lately has not been good and right now childress or mario should get the start. good win for the hawks though and i love mario starting and giving the hawks a spark

By hawksfanfordawin

February 27, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

yghs you shouldnt post here anymore, i admire your love with marvin but what is your point with joe even marvin himself said that its hard to play through injuries and that he admired that joe had the strengh to do so.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Marvin is worthless.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

If Marvin was hurt, why would Woodson play him 40 minutes every game? I hate to keep repeating myself, but WOODSON IS A MORON!!!

I’m not buying this crap about a wrist injury, anyhow. It smells like another one of Woodson and Knight’s bullsh*t excuses.

By Casey

February 27, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

I love to see Mario getting playing time, but once again Woodson made the wrong move. Childress should have started. Mario should have come off the bench. That’s a no brainer. But I guess that means Woodson literally has NO BRAIN. Hey, that could be a good nickname: Mike “Nobrain” Woodson.

Hey, is it just me, or do Woodson and Knight always look like they’re on methadone? Especially Woodson with that blank stare he always has.

By thehawk

February 28, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

speaking of yghs comment if he was hurt how stupid is woodson for plyaing him 40 minutes a night like case said this guy obviously had something wrong because over that road trip before the all star break marvin was on fire and looked great and then it seemed like he just left. i love mario coming in early he really sets the stadium on fire and i think woody finally noticed that he has some on offense too and not just defense good game go hawks.

By banks

February 28, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Who is the softest 6’8 235 pound basketball player? Answer Joe Johnson. It amazes me how a guy with a body like his plays so weak when he goes to the hole. As most of you stated Woodson has to go for the following reasons: 1) No imagination with the line up 2) the inability to make game time adjustments. I am thinking that Duck is handicap, because there is no way a normal person can be that goofy and uncoordinated

By banks

February 28, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Josh(Smith) repeat after me. I AM NOT A POINT GUARD. I AM NOT POINT GUARD. I AM NOT A POINT GUARD. Shouts out to the three way junkies.

By doc

February 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

something happening as one of my entries got ate up at the closing of the last blog as a pressed the button to enter it. the woody firing story is gone again so i wonder what is what?

By Ken Strickland

February 29, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this

How long have I been trying to impress upon all of you that BK’s hands have been tied by ownership. The only thing I’ve been unable to figure out is to what extent. BK deciding Woodson needed to go makes perfect sense to me. The blueprint for this team is BK’s alone. He put it together with a definite uptempo style in mind. His biggest mistake wasn’t with the players he did or didn’t acquire, but the HC he hired to execute his blueprint.

I wonder how much of a factor Belkin played in blocking BK’s attempt to fire Woodson. I can see him using this as leverage for firing BK, as well as seizing an opportunity to stick it to him. Even though Belkin has equal imput in team matters, he gets a free pass because everyone identifies the Spirit as the culprit when things go wrong. If Belkin wins and the team is still inconsistent and in turmoil, it would make him look good if he made changes and the team started winning immediately. On the other hand, it would look bad if the team was prospering when he took over, but faultered after changes were made.

By ray

February 29, 2008 4:56 AM | Link to this

Something strange and ominous is going on here. The blog after this (the one we were all on) has had several comments, links to the infamous article on Billy trying to fire Woody, and other things missing. Plus, we cannot post on it. Very strange indeed. Needless to say, this sparks even MORE conspiracy theory.

In addition, things may have gone wrong and bad for our friend Sekou. I hope not, but there are strange things going on here.

drmaryb, if you’re clever enough to come here and read this, explain to me one thing: if coming and here and posting is something that only broke-a$$, 300 lb hamburger eating people have time to do…then what does that say about you? After all, you come here and post…don’t you? Nothing like getting caught in the nets and snares of one’s own making…Sometimes it ain’t fun when the shoe fits, eh? Especially if it’s stuck right in your esophagus. Hee Hee…

By smartguy

February 29, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

There’s something fishy in the skies over Atlanta. END THE CENSORSHIP AT THE ajc.

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Hey Ray

If I am on here, I can afford it! But I promise you I am not on here at 4:56am it just ain’t that serious -man. This is sports and entertainment. I never want to see any human person be fired for playing a child’s game! The over-the-top emotional and angry stuff - is really funny to me!

Unless you weigh 300lbs and eat hamburgers for a living ? I ain’t talking to you anyway! (Ray-do you?)

But to blog it all day and all night - no way! In three weeks I figured this is good for the weekends and during down time only…on that note - back to work - see ya!

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Hey smartguy

I smell a rat too! ever since Bernie was run-off, I figured there was some in-fighting going on! He was the only person to come on the radio and address the team and the fans concerns. Now there’s no one doing that.

Anyway, I think SEKOU is either suspended, reprimanded or even worse - maybe Fired! no more plane rides and bus rides for him I guess!

I reminds me when everybody on capital hill was screaming for Teflon - Bill to be impeached for his antics in the Oral-Office Everyone who threw the stones were themselves fired and Teflon-Bill is on the campaign trail again - to be the First - First Man! He He He ..

Be careful when you ask,

“For whom the Bell tolls?” For it tolls for thee!

(so be careful when you wish other people get fired - the other people may be - thee!)

By ray

February 29, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

drmaryb, heh…just for amusement’s sake-I do weigh close to 300. But it doesn’t look the way you might think it does. Let’s just say there’s a lot more beef than there is blubber. As for hamburgers….who the HELL EATS them for a living? Well, if you want to get picky about it, I hear some guy named Jared eats these cold-cut sandwiches for a living. But he eats fresh…heh heh!

By doc

February 29, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

ya think smartguy?

By SKINFAN

February 29, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

This team sucks. Period, Point Blank. They don’t have any fire because of the bickering in the front office, the coach is hamstrung because of the talent he has to make use of. Billy Knight said it himself, this IS the team that he wanted. Then he traded underperformers that HE drafted. Yet, the Hawks still have 6 of the same players left. We have a center he truly thinks he is a center (Zsa Zsa). Sez who?? Billy?? Plus he attempted to have Woodson canned because he can’t win with a bunch of 2d rate players. Fire BILLY, HE MADE THIS MESS!!! Gosh, the team is awful!!

By Ken Strickland

February 29, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

DRMARYB-don’t make assumptions about individuals based on posting time. Some of our fans are posting from the other coast, while others are in other parts of the world. Therefore, they’re in different time zones.

Something strange is going on here because the AJC seems to be selectively practicing censorship on Hawks blogs. Yet, they’re perfectly willing to permit a full range of vulgar expressions and racist ideology on Falcons blogs without a hint of concern.

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Hey Ken

I feel you man - on here! You make Good Points and you usually do. I like this Blogging - it’s fun. I like to talk a lot of trash too! That’s part of my game to psyche out the competition - before I back it up. But if I can gain an edge and get into somebody’s head? That’s just the “Dennis Rodman” in me ;o

Now, I can take a butt-whippin too! Hey sometimes you win and sometimes you lose - so it comes down to how you play the game!

You Play To Win The - GAME -Herman Edwards-

Hey KenS. Do you think Sekou got fired or something? I sure hope not! What ever happened to Free-Speech especially at the Newspaper!

By Hawksville Resident

February 29, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Wow, high drama between the AJC and the Hawks! Anyways, I believe the story you wrote yesterday even if it seems that the Hawks made you retract it. It sucks that our ownership is so bad, but that being said I’m still excited to see this team play tonight against maybe the only franchise more disfunctional than ours! The newest member of the Mike Bibby “team Dime” fan club, Hawksville

By Hoosier

February 29, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Why is there no article on today’s game?

IF SEKOU gets fired over all this, I will make it a point to never ever spend any more money on the AJC or the Hawks/Thrashers!!!

By doc

February 29, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

smartguy ya think.

silence is not golden at this point.

me feels the hawks might be losing one long time fan of 50 years with this exorcism of some blogs and a story especially if they take it much further. maybe belden had it right all along. ma bad for taking up for the home boys. silly if they make more out of it than a false rumor and leave it at that. they really dont get public relations and seem to want to provoke just the opposite just by bk’s attitude toward fans and the press.

i mean havent they seen enough of what clemens did to himself without trying the same hard ball tactics. will be interesting to see the fall out. sad really sad. and agree whole heartedly ken we keep it above board here and really they might understand the blog is only a reflection of what they wraught, winning will change the whole demeanor. get it? no!!

By Bertie

February 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

BLOG Z seems to have been taken out of commission. No word in the last 2 days and the blog after this one was shut down, it is just a matter of time this one is closed too.

Sekou’s article was right on point, Woodson should have been fired two months ago. His coaching style does not match this team’s personnel, and now with Bibby it matches even less. This team has a whole in the middle that there is no real short term fix, so the team needs to run opponents out of the building. Also, his article was picked up by Hoopshype.com, the link is gone but the summary remains. Sekou, hope to see you back soon.

Tonight’s game is a must win.

By JustAnotherGuy

February 29, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

if you want to read the article, google this string: “Knight tried to fire Woodson”.

It’ll come up somewhere.

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

SEKOU SMITH

Where are you - MAN! -Chris Tucker- If these village idiots got rid of you I am personally going to go down there to Phillips Arena and

ASK some real Hard Questions!

These damned Millionaires better wake up get to Work! or they are going to catch a cold in that empty arena. This A-Town deserves a Winner and nothing less!

I got your support, Mr. Gearon, right here - give me a second while I remove the underwires from my 34B cups Hold on…Oh yeah let me get this polyester/nylon cheetah thong sent over to you….(sorry it’s stuck in the crack of my a*!) Just like Mario West is Stuck on that bench.

Why don’t you support Mario and get that boy some PT That man plays like his balls are on fire…we need that on the floor all night every night - he’s probably worth at least 5 games by himself!

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Hey it’s funny to me how we can only blog on this article: Shame on us all!

Is someone trying to send us some type of subliminal message here? MMMMHHH? Are they ashamed of us? Now that’s a turn of the tables.

Where’s the next BLOG I am already tired of this one!

By Ken Strickland

February 29, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

DRMARYB-Ownership knows BK is a company man and would take the heat for the teams problems. It worked until Sekou spilled the beans. BK’s been called stupid, incompetent and blamed for everything imaginable in reference to the Hawks. He was absolutely correct when he commented about fans not knowing as much as he does about basketball and being a GM. Everything that transpires behind the scene isn’t presented for public scrutiny. And as we’ve just witnessed, sometimes those things that are presented are done so without approval.

I can see Belkin not wanting Woodson fired, but not the Spirit. Why would they resist firing him and promoting an assistant? It certainly wouldn’t cost them any additional money, and improving the team would be to their benefit. Promoting an assistant that might improve the teams performance, and lead them to the playoffs, would make the Spirit Group look good. After all, don’t we associate everything bad about this team and the ownership mess with the Spirit?

WE’LL GET A WIN AGAINST THE KNICKS TONIGHT. GOOD LUCK YOU HIGH FLYING HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By JerryWest

February 29, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Sekou is by far the best Hawks reporter ever.

By Jaquan berry

February 29, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

MARVIN WILLIAMS IS A 6’10 JUMP SHOOTER NO INSIDE GAME. I HAVE LOOKED AT EVERY STAT AND HE IS ALWAYS AT THE BOTTOM OF +- WHICH INDICATES WE ARE BETTER OFF WITHOUT HIM PLAYING. I KNEW WHEN I HEARD HE WAS OUT THE OTHER DAY WE WOULD WIN! HE’S A GREAT KID, JUST ONE THAT SHOULD HAVE STAYED 3 YEARS IN SCHOOL AND LEARNED HOW TO PLAY.

By Hawksville Resident

February 29, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Wow, I just saw Spike Lee walking downtown! he’s going to the game tonight! I know he’s rich, but talk about a die hard fan! His team is and has been bad yet he hasn’t bailed. Us real Hawks fans can relate, but all the fair weather fans take a lessob on how to be a real fan.

2nd topic. Sekou! You’re the best thing the AJC has to offer! Where y’at? Buddy!

By MannyT

February 29, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Speaking of another topic (alomst)…in the midst of all this, the NY game is one we have to win if we are going to the playoffs. All that said, I am looking forward to seeing David Lee tonight. They say the kid works hard in the paint for a team that ain’t very good.

I hope Sekou is ok through all this. He brings a lot to keeping interest in a team that seems to run fans away with their decision making.

I’ll be there tonight!

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Hey KenS-Baby

I am beginning to think that the ASG has an agenda! I know - I know duuuh!

I’m Just Sayin’ - Do they really want to win and go to the PLAYOFFS? (maybe a legal strat to get the team)

I mean it’s like VICK failing the THC-test. Maybe that was intentional to establish a drug problem to take advantage of entering the EARLY RELEASE drug-rehab program..to get out in time to re-join the Falcons next year! (hey one can still dream - right?)

But listen up, We the FANS deserve better, we deserve to know what the hell is going on over there at Phillips Arena!

I mean come on, David Stern you need to be like Roger Goddell-sp and show your damn face. You need to set a deadline for this group to come together and stop all this damned bickering! It’s affecting us all and it’s poisoning our dreams to win a - Ch-u-mpionship

I’m Just Sayin’ KenS-Baby what do you think?

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

The Problem with J-Smoove is that he does everything so well (sans TO’s).

He is not a Prototype-4 & He is never gonna be a Prototype-3 (unless he can get a perimeter-game) & He blocks like a freaking-beast a - Prototype-5 (but is too small to bother Yao Ming).

So, you see he is not the type of player that you can build around. Not only does he cause problems for the opponents but he also poses problems for the HAWKS! It’s like figuring a Rubik’s Cube Billy has a really hard job.

Let Bibby figure it out - that is How to best use J-Smoove

1. No Point Guard Play - PERIOD.
2. No Three Point Shooting - PLEASE.
3. Do Your Thang J-Smoove and work on your weaknesses like TIGER does.
4. Sometimes you Gotta change your SWING

Bibby needs to re-define the roles on this team because this is HIS team now - Since JJ doesn’t want that JOB The Coach already said - It’s up to Bibby! Woody should keep his job just for saying that! Get off Woody’s Back and let that man feed his family!

By drmaryb

February 29, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Hey KenS

Do you think SEKOU QUIT! I think when he put this BLOG on here - that was his last BLOG that is why we are still BLOGGING on this 3 Day old Story.

When you Pop-Off like SEKOU did - He was probably ready to WALK! I think he’s had enuff of being MUZZLED

I think SEKOU has been De-Planed and no more free plane rides, no more free meals, no more free hotels, no more AMEX-Card…no more articles!

If this is what is going on? That is terrible! SEKOU was for the PEOPLE!

By Ken Strickland

February 29, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

DRMARYB-what do you mean maybe(in the drug test situation). As far as Sekou is concerned, only time will tell. If the AJC tolerated the incinating commentary churned out by its other writers this summer concerning MVick, surely they can tolerate Sekou Smith’s informative commentary. The Hawks ownership, as well as the AJC, are totally disfunctional.

BK has stood by the Spirit throughout this legal fiasco. The owners reward by forcing him to take the heat for their faultly decisions. It’s really ironic how the Spirit GRP is now doing to BK what they’re fighting Belkin for doing to them in the JJ trade. I wonder if BK’s foreseeing the possibility of having to replace Woodson this season had anything to do with refusing to allow Drew to accept another job? It’s certainly something to think about.

By Glutton for Punishment

February 29, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

YES !! Sekou is in his usual spot behind the scores table… I was scared !!!!

By new jersey faithful

February 29, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

AIR BALL AIR BALL AIR BALL

By new jersey faithful

February 29, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

What a horrible 4th QT!! The Hawks need to step it up and play some ball!!