Hawks

By BA

March 25, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

I think the executive is kind to refer to them as “sets”. Woodson’s offense is really only one set. But the undeniable fact is that Bibby plays FAST. And his passes come quickly, clearly too quickly for Pachulia. The more this team evolves with Bibby, the more they leave behind Pachulia. Just not his style, he’s too slow. I think the Hawks will make the playoffs. And with a couple of the right moves this summer we’re looking at a four or five seed this time next year.

By MannyT

March 25, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

Sekou So your unnamed former Hawk agrees that the team should run. Next time you talk with him ask him his thoughts on WHY it took so long to play this way. Ask him what he would have said to the coaching staff if he were still on this team and they were plodding along trying to play molasses ball for most of the season.

What do your league execs say about the effect of televised games on the perceptions of voters for ROY? The national TV audience would have no idea if the Hawks ran around in unis with actual feathers glued to them. Aside from a minute of SportCenter, they are like the crickets in the middle of the summer night—heard, but never seen.

WAF

By ray

March 25, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

Uh-huh. I knew it. No sooner than I submit my daily news, Sekou does another blog. That would be the king reminding the jester who’s court it is, LOL! Yes, I know I’m the clown…wouldn’t have it any other way.

But anyway, if you want to see the latest Ray-Ray’s daily news, go to the blog prior to this one, titled “Game of the Century II.” Hope you find it humorous…that’s all that’s intended.

Furthermore, I like Dominique Wilkins. But I can’t help it if one of the trolls made him into good fodder for a daily news fable…

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

Great to from you sekou.

1)ray, you are halarious…..

2)Hawks make the playoffs and Horford wins ROY

3)THADDEOUS YOUNG? I know sekou, it hurts me too

4)A SALIMFAN.I to would like to keep salim.And they can also call me crazy but ,to me.In college his game was just as good if not better than acie.For ten years I did nothing but, beat on sports and i won more than i lost.Lou had to play hind ai & now miller.Salim doesn’t get a chance to play period.And even though we have a good nucleus now,he & rio should a been getting burn then(over lue & aj).Dam that true pg center sh!t.Put the best players on the court.As far as Ellis.Woody wouldn’t played him either

Jami$$ion I hear you dawg.

5)Ando In the last blog were you implying that without basketball theres no way josh would have gotten into college?

Also South Gwinnett Played a national schedule so they played the best competition in the country. Delano Howard was the PG but all three guards brought the ball up the court on numerous occasions. All three were exellent passers.

Also during that draft other than Will Bynum, Louis Williams, and B.J Elder, I really couldn’t hink of anyone good that the hawks could take. But when the said Salim I was like He’s still on the board? SCORE!! BK picked the most proven and talented player available in the draft at the time. Any he’s still a beast.

6)I predict that the Mavs regroup under the leadership of Former Hawk Jason Terry. They inish fifth in the West. Denver misses out on the playoffs this year.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Kevin Durant would have a much stronger case for Rookie of the Year if he could do something, anything, other than score. Unfortunately right now he’s not a good rebounder for his size, doesn’t really set up his teammates well, can’t take advantage of his height in the post, and from what little of him I’ve seen doesn’t play defense to the level he probably can with his incredible athleticism.

The “good player on a bad team” argument doesn’t always apply, but in this case it does, and here’s why. No, the Hawks are not a great team, but they are good enough to where Horford doesn’t receive nearly the same number of touches he would on a team like Seattle. Kevin Durant takes twice as many shots as Al Horford; should he not be expected to score twice as many points?

From what I can see Horford impacts the game in a lot more different ways than Durant does. The stats don’t always show how positively a player impacts a game, but even if you wanna look at stats, the one area Durant has Horford beat by a wide margin is points, which really is a wash because of how many touches he receives. The one area Horford dominates Durant is in rebounds — you can attribute some of that to Horford playing inside more, but 10 to 4 is still a huge margin for two guys who are basically the same height. Every other statistical category is basically a wash. And when you see all the things Horford can do that a typical PF/C can’t (ball handling, for example), and you compare that to Durant who for all his physical gifts is basically a one-dimensional player at this point, Horford really should have him beat. He won’t beat him, but he should.

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

Sekou said it best “(and I would caution anybody about making a definitive opinion on a player after just two or three seasons. Some guys take a while longer to develop and find their niche).”

That means stop hatin’ on all hawk players not named Joe Johnson and Mike Bibby…..coughzaza tooCoughcough*

By mykhalc

March 25, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

unfortunately SEKOU has been seen with SALIM rose colored glasses on too!!!!

By annoyed

March 25, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

Josh Smith received the Academic Award at Oak Hill for the highest grade point average maintained during the 2003-04 season. This info is available on Josh’s bio on NBA.com. Ando Please stop with your comments. I think it is incredible that you can say a young man you don’t know wouldn’t be able to get in college without basketball. He also was a NCAA qualifier so he would of been in school. The funny thing is that you sit on a blog and talk about him every day. Maybe you are jealous, bitter and all of the other negative qualities u show here constantly.

By Matt

March 25, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this

Najeh,

You said it perfectly, man. Right on about Durant - he’s taking 20 shots per game, while Horford is producing without his number ever being called.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 2:47 AM | Link to this

SalimFan, while the comment about players taking time to find their niche is true, particularly for players like your boy Salim, missing layups does not qualify as a niche. Therefore, the statement doesn’t apply to Zaza.

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 3:05 AM | Link to this

Hahaha no, I meant zaza was included with Bibby and Johnson so feel free to have a full rag session on Fumblelina He drops at least three passes a night sheesh.

By hawks-4-life

March 25, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this

The only thing close “D” in Durant is the first letter in his name yet he is the front runner. People must’ve forgot what a liability he is one defense.

By hawks-4-life

March 25, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this

on defense…lol

By ray

March 25, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this

BA, that’s right. The fact is, almost none of these guys were initially ready for Bibby’s quick passes. At first, they were all dropping or missing them. But one by one, we began to see who is able to catch on and who isn’t…

I’m sure that another reason for this is that our pgs, most notably Acie Law, have not been encouraged to play like Bibby plays. AJ and Lue weren’t capable. Acie IS capable, but got the choke-chain yanked on him quick. I’ve watched some games where he really threaded the needle, but a player just wasn’t ready for the pass and it ended up looking like nothing more than an Acie turnover. When in fact…it was a bad play on the receiving end.

Was this always the case? No. But a lot of times it was…and often times it was because it had not been encouraged. We have been needing a strong presence at the pg spot that forces the game to be played differently. Coincidentally, it forces the coach to slack up on the reins.

By fudd21

March 25, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

I think it would be sad if Al doesn’t win rookie of the year. As Najeh said Durant’s only statistical category where he is beating Al is in points. That is due to his role on the team. In Seattle Durant is the number one option and therefore puts up twice as many shots as Al. All the writers will look at is the points but fail to realize all the other things that Al brings to the table. We watch Al every game so we know what he does and what he brings. Again it will be sad if he doesn’t win it.

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

March 25, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

For the sake wanting to believe (as all Hawks fans have and will do) I hope what Ando was getting at is that Smoov wouldnt have gotten a college scholarship offer if he wasn’t a freakish athlete- he had few discernable actual basketball skills. He obviously used/uses his athletic superiority to compete/excel while he learns “how to play basketball”.

As far as “who will be what” in the league, it’s a crap shoot. I disagree with statement that “then all the Mickey D Americans would be ballers statement”. In any given year, some players are better than others (obvious, I know). If you took all the MAA from the past 6 years (about an avg NBA career), then enevitably their would still be a pecking order withing the 150 or so players. This doesnt even account for the growing European contingent or those who take a couple years to develop.

By Astro Joe

March 25, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Blog Z, surely you can make a mad dash to the Michigan Ave and pick up a new wardrobe for the evening. We all know how well you guys are paid. And feel free to bring home a few Chicago-style pizzas and I’ll stop by the AJC offices tomorrow. Pepperoni, sausage & extra cheese please. There’s a $1 tip in it for all your troubles.

I don’t think we have a true understanding of how bad the Knicks are this season. I watched them against the Nets last night. They are truly horrific. Worse than even the Hawks team that won 13 games. At least we were attempting to build something. Knicks will likely go 22-60 this season. They are one BUTT-UGLY team. Walsh (or whomever takes over) will need to consider a major yard sale with that team. Even decent players like Jamaal Crawford may be scarred for life after spending the last few seasons with that train-wreck of a squad.

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

March 25, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

The level of disrespect…. So I’m roaming various sports pages trying to see how the Hawks are being viewed and decide to look up Joe’s stats of late(for which he’s been playing well). What do I find?

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/players/3520/

“Politically speaking”, who is this hump pictured and why are we always getting disrespected at every turn?

(if anyone really knows, please say so)

By koncaker

March 25, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

We never run plays for Al, but we should. He would score more and it might have yielded a little more than isoing Joe. He should be ROY

I love Chill’s game. Good kid, plays hard, adds a lot ot the team and has been getting the minutes instead of Marvin lately. Chill may as well start. But we could have had Iguodala with that pick. Philly is pushing for the fourth spot thanks to his all-star caliber play.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Wow, what the f-ck… is that Joe Johnson’s retarded brother Bilo?

By annoyed

March 25, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

It is Donta Smith. The Hawks former second round draft pick.

By Anthony

March 25, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Who is their right mind thinks Al Horford aka Buck Williams Jr should be the rookie of the year? No team schemes to stop Horford because he only gets his numbers due to hustle points. He won’t score 30 to beat you in any game.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Ohhh, yeah… I thought he looked kinda familiar. Wonder what happened to Donta Smith anyway?

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Funny how you called Horford “Buck Williams Jr.”, seeing as how Buck Williams won Rookie of the Year in 1982.

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

ASTRO JOE:

Isn’t that Isaiah (Larry Bird sucks) team? I thought he’d been put on the floor to prove to management how his picks were to be utilized? So is it the picks, the coach, or both that make the Knicks so bad?

Saw in the paper today that Walsh was on the way out of his current position at Indiana. NY bound huh?

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

March 25, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

Donta Smith.Right. I actually do remember him on the roster (albeit briefly). This is the same guy who exploded for 42 points against Wabash Valley. Tallied 40 points and 10 rebounds against Moberly Area.

No doubt he was scouted and uncovered by BK against the local juggernaut when he collected 24 points and 10 rebounds against Georgia Perimeter in the second round of the NJCAA Tournament.

Perhaps the most telling thing about the ill-fated 6’7 215lbs Donta was in his profile: ” According to his coach Todd Franklin, Smith has a pro body, seven-foot wingspan and can play the one, two or three positions. “

Now I know why CNNSI is confused. Sound like anyone else we know on the Hawks roster from that draft/era?

Not stuck in the past, just noting were we come from

RISE UP tonight!

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Philly just matched their win total from last year, just as our guys did a few nights ago and nobody is talking about Maurice Cheeks getting fired. Does this mean that Woody will get a pass? What yall think? Philly is over 500, however.

By MannyT

March 25, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Najeh Nice pick up on the Buck Williams comment!

Because the award is voted on by sportswriters and broadcasters, I think a telling informal scale is how many times has one of these folks seen the ROY candidate play. I would not be surprised if several of the eastern folks have seen Durant more than they have seen Al.

Sure it’s tricky to compare players at different positions, but that’s what the efficiency stat tries to do…and guess who is the most efficient rookie?

As for Donta Smith, I think he has been working on his foreign languages and skipping the barber shop a bit since his JJ impersonation. This is a year old Donta sighting.

WAF

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Hey Top50, who the hell is that? It for damn sure, aint Joe Johnson. I did notice that Joe only avg. 9 points per game in his 3rd year. Maybe I’ll back off Goofy a little bit, for he avgs more than that, in his 3rd. I’m going to leave you alone for a while Marv, just stop FALLING!

By TheHawksFan

March 25, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Whats the deal with this Walsh dude? He did a good job in Indy, but they suck now. He gets the blame for them stinking as he gets credit for 17 NBA finals appearances with no rings. Sounds like the Jim Kelly Dan Reeves Marv Levy of the NBA. There is no DEBATE worth talking about with this ROY award. Durant shoots 75 shots a damn game. Gimmie a friggin break. You ask me, he is the reason the Sonics suck so bad. But blame PJ. He wants him to shoot that much. Look the guy can shoot, but his azz needs to be on the block. Trying to protect his skinny azz putting him the perimeter aint working. Feed him pinto beans and cornbread until he gains about 125 lbs. Until then AL the ROY award is all yours. I kinda like the spirted Banter amongst the bloggers. I know the AJC does. What like 50 thousand hits a day on these forums?? The Hawks making the playoffs with 37 38 wins and A Western Conf team missing out with 50 wins will be dealt with in the next CB deal. Dont blame the Hawks though. 10 years with no post season in punishment enough. We could use some FAVOR!!!! Heres to another Bulls player telling Boylan to get bent, hopefully during tonights game. Goooo Hawkss!!

By MannyT

March 25, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

The NBA is having that battle of the dance teams imagine if they did the same for GMs and coaches? That would be interesting!

Given all the grief BK gets for his picks, would you rather be him or KMc? Read the article then decide.

Is it worse to pick well and trade or just not trade down to get your guy at a later slot?

WAF

By Astro Joe

March 25, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

richbrave, I think it is all of the above when it comes to answering the question “why are the Knicks bad?”. But mostly, I blame Zeke the GM more than Zeke the coach.

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Manny T , I’ll take BK over McHale anyday. We shoulda swapped Sheldon for Roy. Hell, McHale would have probably did that.

By Orlando

March 25, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

terrell the Sixers signed Cheeks to a one year extension, which will be the same thing that happens to Woodson should Atlanta finish in 8th or even 9th.

I don’t know why anyone really cares if Horford wins the ROY or not. Awards like that and the MVP are nothing more than media-biased concoctions that serve to hype up a player more than he should. I mean really, did anyone really think Dirk Nowitski deserved the MVP after that horrid playoff performance last year?

That said, whomever Blog Z spoke to earlier comparing Horford to Durant and Thorton is an absolute moron. The award should be based on who was the most consistent performer, and not who scores the most points. Team results should have nothing to do with it. Anyone can jack up a lot of shots if they are the only scoring option on the team.

Whatever, Hawks just need to beat Chicago tonight and Milwaukee tomorrow. Atlanta can smell it, and fans need to get behind them for real.

By Anthony

March 25, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Buck Williams also got traded for Sam Bowie! I don’t need to say anything more than that!

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Orlando, I doubt he gets a 1 yr. extension, if we finish 9th. Why would he?

By cp

March 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

I think Horford should win the award. I noticed while watching our games that many of the opposing teams play by play guys feel he should get the award too. I like Durant but as it has been pointed out, the guy does nothing but shoot and shoot and shoot. His defense makes Pachulia look like Bruce Bowen and I think even Al Harrington is a better rebounder and we all know Harrington was terrible at grabbing rebounds when he was here. As far as Donta Smith, I always like the kid’s game. I think he was caught up in a situation where he stayed in Woody’s dog house no matter what he did. I remember Donta scoring like 18 one game and Woodson was like Donta has to show him more games like that so guess what Woodson did the next game. Yep you know it he didm’t even play the kid. Donta has all the tools hell I actually wanted us to pick him up before the season started or when we needed to fill out our roster after the trade. Chalk Donta as another player who produced when given minutes but was on that short leash when he was ever given a chance to show what he could do.

By Hawksville Resident

March 25, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

CP, I get your point but Pachulia and Bruce Bown should never be in the same sentence! ha Whenever y’all get a chance go the Hawks.com and check out the front page! Playoffs!!!Dude, this is going to be crazy!

By cp

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

Yea come to think about it Hawksville you are right lol but you get my point. I hope we as others said in the last blog take care of Chicago seeing how they are probably more dysfunctional than even the Knicks.

By HB Ando

March 25, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

annoyed, fair enough. I usually do my research, and, on the issue of Josh Smith I did not. I must have confused his seeming lack of hoops IQ with his actual intellect. I owe him an apology.

However, your assertion that I knock him daily couldn’t be more incorrect. First of all, I don’t post daily, and am known to skip a week or two at a time, these days, as I see nothing changing with the franchise and little new to add to the points/predictions I’ve made over the preceding years, which have largely been accurate.

I believe Smith has one of the most unique, irreplaceable games in the league. What I have questioned is whether the Spirit will be outbid for him, via a term-sheet, and whether he will continue to improve (and, more importantly, show nightly consistency which is sorely lacking). His numbers, since the all-star break have declined (you can pull his splits from his player card on ESPN.com).

And what I have said is that he represents the same risk that Utah took, when signing AK47 to a max deal, only to see him stop improving.

I also question whether the Spirit will pay more than the number they have in their collective heads (which we are not privy to), if he signs a term-sheet for greater than that number. And if they are unwilling to match, then I wonder how we can best optimize his value in a forced sign-and-trade.

So, point taken on an unfair characterization of his intellect. But you couldn’t be more wrong about my bashing him on a daily basis. I challenge you to find any evidence, in the archives, of me being anti-Josh Smith.

You’ve simply done the exact same thing you accuse me of, which is making an incorrect statement with no facts to back it up.

I continue to imagine that the optimal Hawks’ front court, long term, would be Smith at the 3, Horford at the 4, and the use of Chills and/or Marvin, and/or Bibby’s expiring contract, next year, to acquire a viable center, who can rebound on both ends, and is most dangerous knocking down face up jumpers from the top of the key, which would free up Horford to work the low blocks, in the half-court, and create driving lanes for Smith to attack the basket.

Because if you do commit to Smith and Horford as your forwards of the future, there’s no place for Marvin, and without a really solid outside shooter, at the 5, this team will struggle to score in the half-court.

I don’t think there’s any way that we’re not going to either move, or let go via free agency, at least 2, if not 3 players, from the primary rotation, over the next year and a half. Bibby is too expensive for what he brings, and his optimal value to the franchise will be his expiring contract, next season. So I think he’s gone. The organization needs to be damn sure that Joe Johnson is committed to re-signing at the end of his current deal, because if not, it should impact what they do as far as retaining Childress.

I don’t see Horford as a center, and have consistently said so since we drafted him. And I think that opinion is shared by most personnel folks around the league. He can be a solid, under-sized center, or a star power forward. So I think Marvin is the odd man out.

No matter whether there are the needed changes in the front office and coaching staff, this summer, this roster will be made over in the coming 12-18 months. Because they can’t afford to pay all of these guys with the existing budget they’ve employed over the past few years. And Horford, when his time is due, is going to get Al Jefferson money. So you can’t keep Bibby, long-term, at $14M, Johnson at $12M, Josh at what will likely be $11-14M, and then ante up, in a couple of years for the same type of number for Horford, all while still not having a solution for a quality center.

Something has to give. And it will. Law will either step up and take over for Bibby, after we move his contract next season. Or we’ll be looking again for a long-term solution at the point. You only re-sign Chills if he’s willing to take that mid-level type money, which is probably lower than an offer sheet he’ll get this summer, AND if you have legitimate fears that Johnson has no intention of sticking around when his deal is up.

Folks can talk all they want about the roster that has been built. But it’s going to be de-constructed more quickly than it was put together. Which essentially means that the “rebuilding” was 5 years of wheel spinning and missed opportunities (while the folks who were our basement-dwelling peers, 4 years ago, when Billy started his “master” plan, have all actually rebuilt-Portland, Boston and Toronto). Only the Knicks, and their bizarrely incompetent team of Thomas and Dolan, and the Grizz, who are owned by a guy who has wanted out for the last several years, remain as equally inept as the Hawks.

Earning the 8th seed would have value, if this was the roster of the future. But getting swept, and losing 2-3 of the core group, means that there wasn’t much value, other than marketing, to snatching the last spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

By HB Ando

March 25, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

BTW, as far as picking up a D-league big man, I still wish we would go get Rod Benson. Not only can board and block shots, but his blog is easily the most clever, intelligent player blog around (Paul Shirley has become a self-indulgent caricature of his previously clever self, as his bitterness grows with the knowledge that he will not have an NBA career).

By Don't Hate Buck

March 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Anthony has selective memory…Buck got traded for Bowie and a draft pick, he also went from a loser(Nets) to a playoff team(portland). Portland could not get out of the first round until the trade. They then went to Western Conference finals and then the NBA Finals twice. Oh sorry, that wouldn’t be good enough! You would rather he score 30 a game and lose every game!

By MannyT

March 25, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Orlando this is why I care if Al-ROY gets his deserved award.

Awards bring visibility. Visibility brings attention to get decent free agents. (We don’t need cash vultures like Curry & Dampier who wanted a payday bigger than their games to come here.) The Hawks have not gotten a major contributing free agent since the ASG bought the team. Remember JJ was a sign & trade. The biggest name we brought in that was not resigning our own player was Speedy. While I am not one to knock him for his injuries, he was a backup before coming here.

Awards may get the Hawks some national TV games and a better chance at notable free agents. Remember in all that February free agent talk, none of them signed here.

WAF

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

We cant have it both ways Ando. Lets say we drafted Paul instead of Marvin. Who’d be the odd man out then? Joe, Paul, Smoove, Horford. All of these guys agents would want a max contract. Could we keep them all. No! Marvin will not ask for the max, however, unless he makes the All-Star team next year, which he wont. Acie and Horford still have 3 yrs on their rookie contracts, so I dont see a problem with keeping the core together. Smoove, Horford, Joe, Acie, Chills, and Goofy. We all knew before hand that Bibby was just going to be here for a year or two, and that’s it. Acie should be ready by then, and like you said, we can use Bibby’s expiring contract for a big.

By Cedric

March 25, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Great post HB Ando, nuff said!!!!

By Lil E

March 25, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this

The reason Al Horford is probably not going to win Rookiee of the Year is because Kevin Durant is already becoming a household name. He’s got endorsements and commercials, something Al Horford doesn’t. It terms of production, they are very close. I actually think Al Horford has been slightly more impressive than Durant. However, the media had practically made up their mind that when Oden went down, Durant would be ROY. It’s a damn shame.

I wouldn’t mind seeing Solomon Jones matched up against Noah tonight. This will be a good chance to get some playing time for him, because we are going to need him and every player on our roster if we make the playoffs.

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

HBANDO:

oNCE AGAIN YOU PROVE TO BE THE ACME OF hAWKS fANS. vERY lOGICAL AND WELL THOUGHT OUT. btw HAVE YOU HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO PERUSE gILBERT aRENAS’ MEA CULPA REGARDING HIS OUTBURST AT THE GAME THE OTHER NIGHT. Something about HIS RETURN THIS YEAR. i HAVE NOT AS YET, BUT AM INTRIGUED TO SEE IF YOUR PROGNOSTICATION REGARDING HE AND HIS CONTRACT BARES FRUIT. It would be logical.

By HB Ando

March 25, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Terrell, we wouldn’t have Horford if we’d drafted Paul. Because we wouldn’t have had the fourth worst record in the NBA last year with Paul, instead of Marvin (much less Roy instead of Shelden). So, I’m not asking to have it both ways. I’ve repeatedly asserted that giving credit to Billy for drafting Horford, when having the opportunity to do so was predicated, 100%, on his utter failure to construct the team he promised, via the draft, his pointless wasting of picks on the Johnson deal, and his ridiculous decision to pay Speedy $26 million. He essentially failed, in his role, so miserably, that he ended up keeping a top-3 pick that he was convinced wouldn’t be in play by last summers’ draft. And only the additional luck of the ping-pong balls saved us from giving the 4th overall pick to Phoenix.

The two most ridiculous things Billy is given credit for are failing so badly, in the past few years, that he bumblef$%*#d his way into getting Horford, and having Josh Smith fall into his lap, at 17, when he was predicted to go as high as 6th, but scared everyone off with during his interviews and poor HS all-star performances. As a franchise lacking in local fan support, at the time, his taking Josh Smith was the ultimate no-brainer, when he grew up here, and dropped 10 slots from his projected lottery position. The only person I know of, here on this blog, who argued that the Smith pick was a mistake, preferring Jameer Nelson, was our own Astro Joe (though he’s gone to complete radio silence on that opinion in the last season and a half). I mean what does it say, about Billy’s player evaluations, that the guy he took 17th is a far better, and more valuable asset, than the guy he took 6th (who he also couldn’t hope to trade for the guys who went 7th, 9th and 11th).

I don’t know that we can use Bibby’s contract for a big, but we can use it for something of value (say a lottery pick). But he’ll go for cents on the dollar, because he’ll be a salary dump for us, at the time, and a projected cap-space clearer, for the acquiring team. I mean we got him for Shelden, Lo Wright, AJ and Lue, while he still had a season and a half on his deal. Imagine how little he brings, as a rent-a-player, come the middle of next season. And where is the accountability for having his actions finally admit what a pathetic pick Shelden Williams was?

And remember that last time we were in a position to improve the team by trading an expiring contract, on a talented player, before the deadline, Billy did nothing with Harrington, though he did get us a first that was used for Acie, in a sign-and-trade. But I still believe the Pistons would have taken Harrington’s expiring deal (for the same amount), rather than Cato’s, that year, and netted Darko and Arroyo, when we needed a PG and at least the possible upside of Darko (not that we would have retained him, though at 3/$21M, and only 22 years old, he was still a pretty reasonable risk for Memphis to take on).

‘Course old Joe never bought that logic either, at the time, stating that Detroit preferred Cato over Harrington, so they could use Cato to play significant minutes against the Heat, and give fouls on Shaq. Then Cato played all of about 8 minutes in the whole Heat series (draw your own conclusions).

It’s not so much seeing a problem with keeping the core, but you’re not attaching the idea that there’s likely a number that the Spirit won’t go beyond, in keeping Josh. So it’s more about the unknown market value of him, and whether that value, when objectified via a term sheet, exceeds the Spirit’s historically low threshold for financial pain. And you cannot neglect the question of what the internal perception is, within the organization, of what it will take to convince Joe that staying beyond his current contract is a good career move, if he’s intent on winning.

I’m just saying that there will be a lot of dice rolling, on upcoming contractual decisions, impacted further by the unknown interest, and term-sheet size, of offers for both Josh and Josh. You can only pay Childress so much, if you continue to project him as a long-term sixth man. Any team that sees him as a starter, will offer him more than we can justify. BUT, you do overpay him if you believe that he’s insurance for the possibility that Joe Johnson is not likely to stay beyond his current deal, if internal rumors support that consideration.

Finally, you have no idea what Marvin will either ask for, or be offered, should he not re-sign and allow himself to go restricted. His numbers, one-dimensional as they are, are not out of line with Deng’s production last year (though you couldn’t get a GM in the league to give you Deng for Marvin), and Deng turned down 5/$55M this summer.

As far as Law goes, I feel like he gets a do-over on his rookie year, between injuries and Woody never really defining a consistent role for him. If he can stabilize as Bibby’s back-up during the first half, next season, and, like Udrih did in Sac-town, instill confidence that Bibby leaving, and Acie stepping in, creates no real drop off in production, then we at least have a cheap, quality young PG.

I’m just saying that no one should be surprised if this team’s make up changes dramatically in the coming two years. And the belief that, should we make the 8th seed, we’re looking at the core of an up-and-coming contender, is highly unlikely. And since it’s simply an opinion, pointed towards the unknown future, there’s really no point in arguing about whether I’m right, or wrong, or anyone else is either, it’s all just conjecture.

Like predictions of the past, only time will tell…..

BA, how’s that for substance (you dumb b*******)?

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

LETS JUST WIN 2NITE!!!!!

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Ando, you know good and damn well, if we would have taken Paul, he would not be the player that he is under Byron Scott. Remember Woody was here then too, so who’s to say that we would’nt have still been in the lottery, and ended up with Big Al. Can you honestly say that, knowing that he would have been playing for Woodrow and not Byron? PLEASE!

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

Ando, your comments dissapoint me today.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

MARVIN!!!!OMG

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

And Marvin fumbles away a perfect pass from Josh.

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith ever gonna learn that perimeter shot isnt for him?

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

I can’t lie marvin and josh both jist p** me off. Hopefully since they did it early it’s out of their systems.

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

Possible milestone night!! Woody going for 100th win!! Only took Josh Smith about 6 minutes to shoot one of his UGLY shots. Air ball, straight away 3 pointer. How does he miss so badly so often?????

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Chillz and 1!!!

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

what in the world?@Marvin Squilliams

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

The problem is Mac-Town, he makes a couple of those once in a while. He also misses like he has never shot a basketball before,alot, and thats the problem! So the few he makes must make him feel he is capable of making them more often, and as we all know(except JS), thats just not the case! He has such a slow and inaccurate jump shot.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

LOL at zaza and marvin

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

that was a goltend wtf!!

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

ZaZa is a thief!!!

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

hey new jersey faithful, thats true about Josh Smith’s perimeter shooting. The funny thing is that his mid ranged jumper looks as consistent (or inconsistent) as Marvin’s.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Joe and al are invisible so far..

By Iceman

March 25, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Hey I’m not trying to be funny or anything, but why does marvin start and get as much playing time as he does. Maybe I’m missing something but he looks so useless.

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

We should be killing these guys…

By cp

March 25, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

I honestly don’t know how we are winning this game so far. The energy and hustle from some of our guys is down right pathetic. Guys are not fighting for loose balls or rebounds. If we win this game it will be because the Bulls are just bad and not because we played well (some guys came to play and are remembering we are in a playoff race) . At this point if we traded Duck and got a first rounder for the upcoming draft and maybe a player I would not be too upset. This guy drops more easy passes than Michael Jenkins. Does Marvin wash his hands and forgets to dry them before every game? I swear this guy looses a easy pass under the hoop at least twice a game if not more. My granny could hold onto the ball better than Duck. I hope guys come out with some damn intensity the second half but hell we are known for coming out after halftime with no type of energy or hustle. I guess I’ll see what second half Hawks team shows up tonight.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Can we stop running the offense through marvin…

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

“This guy drops more easy passes than Michael Jenkins.”

LMAO!!

By sMH.

March 25, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

3rd Quarter….after 3rd Quarter….after 3rd Quarter….after 3rd Quarter

By mrprozach

March 25, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

What do the Hawks drink at halftime? I’ve heard of the 2 cocktail lunch but not the 5 shot halftime!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

whats happening out there….

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

It seems like we always have more poor and dropped passes than our opponents. Guys dribbling it out of bounds.

as a matter of fact, one just happened as I was typing this.

By Marvin Williams

March 25, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

I SUCK.

By Murphy

March 25, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

3rd quarters are when we lose games. We get ourselves in to deep of a hole and when we finally wake up its to damn late

By cp

March 25, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

It is only the 3rd quarter but im going out on a limb here and calling it GAME OVER. Once again we come out from halftime sluggish and with no damn heart. Josh Smith is being outhustled by Noah. Guys are turning over the ball, missing lay ups, looking like they dont care. Once again we cant handle our business when we need too.

By Don!

March 25, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

Halftime adjustments are often the best indicator of coaching.

The Hawks’ performances in the third quarter this entire season bear out the team’s biggest problem.

With that having been said …

* Can we fire Woody now? *

Later,

Don!

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

We’ve been outscored 21-6 to begin the 3rd quarter. wtf? I go to the store at halftime, and come back to this.

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this

Hey Sekou, does Woody give the guys vodka in the locker room at halftime or what? GEEZ!

By Sautee

March 25, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

What urgency? What defensive intensity?

Is this a preseason game?

No wait, we were good in preseason.

If you tuned in and didn’t know their precarious position, would you EVER guess by tonight’s play that they were “fighting” for a playoff spot?

Even if they back into the 8th spot, this kind of play is depressing to watch. Thank you Woody, for your inspiring preparation.

Even my boy Horford is on his heels. Does have 2 blocks for Clyde, though. And another double digit rebound night.

Down 16, I’m goin’ to bed. Ugh.

By PLEASE

March 25, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

FIRE WOODY!!!!!

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Why do the hawks always play to the level of their competition?

By MARVIN WILLIAMS

March 25, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Hey screw you guys, at least I came out tonight in my stylish headband so I could look cool like Mike Bibby, Josh Smith and Jeremy “Should be getting more playing time than me” Richardson.

By jami$$ion

March 25, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

JUST WHEN U THINK THESE SUCKAZ GOT IT.THEY DON’T.I DO NOT KNOW WHAT WOODY DOES TO THESE GUYS AT HALFTIME.BUT IT MUST CEASE IMMEDIATELY !!!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

SUPERCHILLZ TO THE RESCUE!!!

By jami$$ion

March 25, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

JUST WHEN U THINK THESE SUCKAZ GOT IT.THEY DON’T.I DO NOT KNOW WHAT WOODY DOES TO THESE GUYS AT HALFTIME.BUT IT MUST CEASE IMMEDIATELY !!!

By Marvin Williams

March 25, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

PLEASE BENCH ME.

By cp

March 25, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Looks like they are trying to prove me wrong about game over. Lets see if they can come back and win it

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

Marvins fat @ss isn’t singing yet!!! We got this game!!

By SalimFan

March 25, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

NOW were playing like the team with all of that talent.

Any lead chicago has is fools gold. it’s just us not coming out with the right mindset and intensity.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

yes finally marvin made a shot

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Hey RichBrave

I’m watching you, I saw your post on Jeff’s BLOG today, good stuff as always.

This Hawks - Bulls game always scare me. It’s something about these bulls that gives the HAWKS match-up problems.

Is MJ still on that team? I never appreciated how great Pippen was until right now! He really complemented MJ’s game more than I ever realized.

I believe Bibby does the same for JJ here. I just hope they have time to really GELL before the Playoffs start. But for some reason, J-Smoove seems to be having a hard time adjusting to not having the ball in his hands.

Can Smoove play without the ball? Or does he lose interest when he’s not in the middle of the action.

I see Bibby calms the team down in the fourth quarter and makes big-plays! But what happens in the third quarter? Is it fatigue or rotations or what? What does RIO have to do to get PT? He makes a difference on the floor - I just don’t get it. He’s like Jerious Norwood, the HC doesn’t know how to use this man. His Energy is Irreplaceable.

JUST WIN BABY

I’m on my way over to the previous blog to read RAY’S Daily NEWS

But I promise you - I’ll Be Back!

By Jeremy Richardson

March 25, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

“Why am I on the bench when my field goal percentage behind the arc is higher than Marvin’s inside of it”

By cp

March 25, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Another great invisible game by Marvin ” Duck, Michael Jenkins” Williams. I would say put Josh Smith back in but his lack of hustle and terrible decision making has hurt us. At this point hell just put in Richardson or Salim. They cant do any worse than Duck

By O'brien

March 25, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

When Marvin is struggling, why does Jeremy Richardson not get any playing time?

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Man just when we cut it to 2 noah with a 3 point play

By The Rick

March 25, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Is it just me or does every bulls score start with an illegal screen by Noah? He’s throwing his hip and even both feet every TIME!!!!!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Wow marvin got up for that rebound

By ajw

March 25, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

4:45 left in game - what a pass by Bibby!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Man wtf smoove, why did you put him back in the game omg!!!

By Daniel

March 25, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

Chris Paul - 31 pts 14 ast 4 rbs.

I’m just saying…..

By Mike Woodson

March 25, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

I have one sheet of paper with random Xs and Os drawn on it, but under it is a coloring book just to make it seem like i have a nice sized play book.

Hey, I got to enjoy my 50th birthday getting wasted with old timers over in indiana for the weekend.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Marvin is actually hustling unlike some others

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Why did josh go full court in favor of an airball

By ajw

March 25, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

I’m predicting that horford & Durant will be co-ROY. They’ve done it before. haven’t they?

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

What the EFF is Josh Smith doin?

By mrprozach

March 25, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Josh is singlehandedly losing this game. He is not hustling and yet still pressing and taking bad shots!

By Melvin

March 25, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Cruical miss call by the refs. Deng block Jsmoove shot and step out of bounds and was the first person to touch the ball as he step back in bounds.

By Are you kidding me?

March 25, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

LMAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO@MARVIN shouldnt play any more after that one

By Murphy

March 25, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Josh screwed up this game and marvin just put the icing on the cake

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Marvin..just when i gave you some props, you lose the ball..

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

MARVIN WILLIAMS CANT CATCH SHIZ. WHAT A RETARD.

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

As much as JS helps this team, he kills it even more sometimes!! How did he get the nickname smoove, when he is anything but???? MV drops another under the basket…oh well! chalk up a L

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Marvin Williams should officially be demoted to the bench. Josh Childress should start until Marvin can prove at least he can catch a ball or do anything else productive. He and Josh Smith’s dumb plays lost us this game.

By ajw

March 25, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

WE would definitely be in the playoffs if someone/anyone else on the bench got more playing time than Marvin. Why does the coach think he deserves to be out there? Insane!!!!!!!!

By cp

March 25, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Another non adjustment game by Mike Knapp. We come in the 3rd quarter flat and cant score so does he put in Salim or Richardson,NOPE. Another dropped pass by Marvin. What in the hell does this guy have to do to show he needs to be benched until he gets it if he ever gets it. Nice to see the guys wake up and realize they are in a playoff race. Seems to me they are hoping other teams lose so they can back in the playoffs instead of handling business on their own.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Everyone except chillz played awful today…this is why we shouldnt get our hopes up

By Daniel

March 25, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Great. All these games are ‘playoff’ intensity and we bag ‘em like preseason warm ups. We are still getting beat by teams with worse records! I’m calling it now - OKC gets a new name and franchise I’ll root for them. I just can’t stand waiting on this bunch of clowns (coaches/owners..not players) to get it together.

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

In addition, I also agree that Jeremy Richardson needs to take some of Marvin’s playing time. At least, he can make a 3-pointer and actually catch the ball.

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

WTF! We just cant win on the road. PERIOD!

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

the problem with the hawks are fundamentals. Bad decisions. Stupid passes. Fumbling the ball.

The bulls gave us lots of chances to get even or take the lead in the 4th.

I don’t understand the 3rd quarter thing at all.

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

MY GOODNESS!

How many games will this team lose due to poor rotations? Where is RIO & SALIM at?

This team is not good enough to be arrogant enough to play DOWN to the competition?

This is a RIDICULOUS FREAKIN’ LOST! It should never have happened. This was a very very winnable game. Give me a Break - I sure need one. What does the BENCH have to do to get a Win when they really need it.

Mediocre play is the staple of this franchise. They are just glad to be mentioned in the PLAYOFFS conversation - if you ask me!

WOW! what a major let-down. This team is just too talented to play like this. I must agree with CLYDE now. My will to promote this team is nearly broken!

Call CLYDE and get me one of them NEGATIVE T-SHIRTS I’ll pay good money to wear one of those!!! Who in the world does the BULLS have on that team anyway? And can we get them’ players to play for us?

By hawksfanfordawin

March 25, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

LMAO @ all these posts!!

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

I’ll tell u what happened in the 3rd quarter. Woody got the bright idea to go to Marvin Williams for a few plays and suddenly the lead becomes 16. Both these guys need to go ASAP.

By champ

March 25, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

What great play will you come up with out of the timeout Woody? JJ drive to the basket and throw up an airball while the other 4 players watch, perfect! Josh Smith when you get the rebound run full speed down court while trying to dribble and throw up a horrible shot(for the love of God Josh Smith, give up the ball!). Mr second pick of the draft, why don’t you fumble a perfect pass while standing in the lane out of bounds. I swear, watching this team game after game and seeing the same mistakes game after game could drive a person insane!

By MarvinFan

March 25, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

YOU GUY ARE IDIOTS!! Marvin has all-star potential….

…in the NBDL.

By Atlman

March 25, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

Mac-Town you just summarized smiths whole style of play

Yeah to cut the lead to 5 after that dumbass fvcked it up. Smoove lost us another game. I don’t understand Woody, we were playing the best with Chill, Marv and Horford in there and than he puts Smoove so that Smoove doesn’t get p** off. Fvck him woody let him whine about it all day who gives a sh!t, this is a team game not to pleas some dumbass.

We were down 94-90 with over 2 minutes left when that selfish bustard decides to drive on 3 players. Than Gordon hits the 3 and we are down 7. ball game!

I personnaly don’t care whether he resigns with us or not. I know he will play good against us anytime we face his new team though.

Marvin sucks, but Smoove can be worse.

By Matt

March 25, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Screw you, Mike Woodson. Screw you for not resting JJ for a single second in a game where the Hawks predictably collapsed in the second half. If the Rockets can afford to rest T-Mac, we can afford to rest JJ. Just for 3 damned minutes.

By jami$$ion

March 25, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

i actually. i’m speechless. jj where the hell were u? dammit punkazzspirit!Y didn’t fire woody when BK tried. I HATE YOU SO MUCH RIGHT NOW!HOW COULD YOU COACH SOO BAD?WHY DIDN’T YOU PLAY SOLO RICHARDSON?WOODY SHOULD BE ON WELFARE & YOUR KIDS WILL BE ON WIC THIS SUMMER!!

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

WE MUST BEAT CHICAGO LATER THIS WEEK! Its getting to the point where Woody MUST play the guys who are producing and bench whoever isnt. There isn’t time time to F around anymore with these guys egos, just play the better player, plain and simple!!!!

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Hey, I know that as fans sometimes we tend to over exaggerate things sometimes. However, it is not the case with this Marvin situation.

Can someone please explain to me what POSSIBLE reason he could still be starting and getting this many minutes?

He is not better than Childress, and from what I’ve saw he cant be better than Richardson.

Why does this guy still have his starting job and significant minutes for that matter?

It’s very puzzling.

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Ray

Who can we get in here to coach this team?

I like Gregg Anthony and I like Mark Jackson too. Who can we bribe to come in here and teach these kids. I know, I know we are THE YOUNGEST TEAM in the NBA along with Portland! Average age I think is 23 years.

Hell - my 7 year old deceased sister could have played better. (RIP Glynnis) These games are consistently lost in the third - Why is that? Why?

What happens in that locker room. Are they in there taking a CRAP? Or are they in there patting each other on the BACKS - Or WHAT?

If I could be a FLY on the wall, I would fill you guys in.

Hell - is Bill Lambeer available? What about Pat Summit and Candace Parker? Are they done winning yet?

People - winning is WHAT YOU DO! you can’t teach that…Winners-Win, Losers-Lose and the HAWKS? Well, they just SUCK!

Winners never quit! Like the old DRUNK said -

Rehab is for quitters &

……..The HAWKS are in REHAB!

By new jersey faithful

March 25, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Hey it could be worse, we could be rooting for the Atlanta Hawks. Oops, my bad, it cant be any worse, these are the Hawks!!! LOL We still in the hunt…somehow!

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

At least he tried a head-band for luck. It did’nt work, but at least he tried. Hey Sekou, when can we label this cat a bust. Next year, year after that, 3 yrs from now? I’ve tried to give him some time, but I think he just doesnt have it. If he tries to draw another foul, without trying to finish the play, I am going to scream! Can I get at least one and 1? And I thought you learned how to catch a pass in High School. Why did’nt he start again, at Carolina as a freshman? Do you see any other top freshman players coming off the bench? hmmm… I said I was going to leave you alone Marvin, but I had no choice, with that effort tonight.

By atlman

March 25, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Jamisson is an idiot, out of all the f******* guys he blames jj, yeah he played a shiz of a game, but jj. the guy doesnt get any rest. I blame stupid azz smoove and his partner in crime wonderboy marvin.

By Marvin Williams

March 25, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

You idiots!!!! You can’t deny that I looked pretty fly in my new look stylish headband tonight.

Too bad I was the same ol Church’s Chicken Grest on my hands Marvin Williams tonight.

I couldn’t finish a child’s crossword puzzle let alone a drive to the basket against NBA players.

By cp

March 25, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Co-sign new jersey faithful. Im sick of guys who are doing absolutely nothing getting plenty of minutes. If a player isn’t contributing then bench his a* and go with the next person. Im sick of this crap. Marvin Williams has the hands of a 2 month old infant. This guy cant hold onto jack shid and im sick of watching him fumbling the balls out of bounds only to clap his hands and point at himself to say his fault. You know what Duck it is your fault. Man the hell up and show us why you were taken second. Im willing to pay good money to see workout footage of Marvin before the draft. I just have to see what the hell this guy was doing to impress these idiots. Whenever people bring up Chris Paul on tv I just turn the station at this point. I just cant take it any more with the MVP talk this kid is getting and watching the guy we took get outplayed by guys on the bench.

By Royal Ivey

March 25, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

**Hey hawks fans, I was just coming through to say hi to the fans of my old team. The hawks are known for giving up “Career Nights” to nobodys such as myself.

So, in the game tomorrow you can expect 30 pts, 8-10 Assist and 7 Boards from me. 21 of the 30 will come in the 2nd half and 15 of those will be in the 3rd quarter alone.**

By richbrave

March 25, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

drmaryb:

Been missing you girl. Gave up on the Wiz in Portland. Down 15 at half - and Brandon Roy left with a re-aggrevated groin strain. If they drop four of five out west, they’re in sixth place. That’s probably where they end up. Hope the Hawks are winning tonight.

By LMAO

March 25, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

<<

rofl@Marvin

…he thought he was gonna shine tonight because he had on that headband.

By Tiger Woo

March 25, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

No matter how I try to forget that we passed on Chris Paul for Marvin and move on (even though we desperately needed a point guard at the time), it’s difficult when Chris Paul has MVP performances such as tonight. We didn’t even need another friggin’ 6’ 9” one-dimensional forward!!

By FUNK DAT

March 25, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

Marvin and ZaZa need to spend an entire practice just standing around the goal and jumping as high as they can and dunking with AUTHORITY. Both of them are so weak and scared around the basket that you would think they were both 5-footers. After that practice, Marvin needs to spend another entire practice standing in a corner and catching passes thrown at him from all directions. Hopefully, one will knock him in the head and knock some sense into him.

By Marvin Williams

March 25, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

The headband didnt work tonight guys. For the rest of the season I think I’m goin to try the Rip Hamilton Mask or some Horace Grant Goggles. You know just to try for a new look.

New look, better performance!!! Maybe???

Your boy, Marvin Gay Squilliams Fancyson

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

I just checked the boxscores:

What a pitiful sight to see. How does MW get all those minutes when clearly JChills is PRODUCING. This man is 5th in the league in FGP threes included.

Why on GOD’s Green Earth - is MW getting all those minutes?

Why do we even CARE? I really need to have my head examined in the morning! I will schedule a CAT-Scan to figure out what the hell is wrong with me?

JJ played 48 minutes people! When are we gonna’ get Acie some seasoning? Man we need a HC! BK is fine man he needs to be able to DO HIS JOB I don’t even know why he keeps coming to WURK daily - Them’ puppet strings must be wrapped around his neck by now! I ain’t laughin - I am so TICKED off! We need a damned HC in here!

We Need a WINNER in this TOWN - We don’t need no LOSERS - MAAANE! -mel SW-Atlanta-

You play to WIN the - GAME! -herm edwards-

The BULLS are who we thought they were - AND we let them off the HOOK! -Denny Green-

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

I remember reading something earlier in the season about Josh Smith possibly maybe being more about HIMSELF than the TEAM

I think I’m seeing that. He seems like he is trying to make himself look good rather than the team sometimes. It’s like he wants to prove that he can knock down outside jumpers and that he can go coast to coast and make big shots in crunch time, yet fails miserably.

Instead of playing a style that better suits him he tries to make some SUPER HERO play that just isnt for him.

I mean hey he’s known enough for being a high flying dunker and shot blocker,so he’s just being selfish now!!

By preston

March 25, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

It looks like Woody has his team set for a hit or miss playoff run with a script that is etched in stone. It is absolutely amazing…..same script….same story…..and 99.9 percent of the time we see the same results: play basically a 7 man rotation that includes all five starters, plus Jchills and Zaza…..put Mario West in the game with 5 seconds left in the half for his defensive prowess…..let Jsmoove and Marvin struggle like hell for extended minutes on the court while Salim, Jeremy, and Solo make their only contributions to the team by making like hihg school cheerleaders. I don’t know why people keep saying that we are a running team, when I see other teams running us off the court. The schedule might be soft, but if we are continually getting outplayed and outhustled by these teams that we should beat, we won’t be going nowhere.

By atlman

March 25, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Richbrave can you please take your stupid azz to e-harmony or something i dont want to know your f******* love affair with dbicthb

By O'brien

March 25, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

On Hawks Live, Jerome and Dominique had some on point comments. They asked “what happens in the locker room at halftime, and where are our adjustments?”. Also, “why dont we have a steady rotation by now, where guys know their role”, and “since we have a game tomorrow night, why didnt Woody use the bench more?”

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are ONE BIG ROLLER COASTER RIDE!

By ???

March 25, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Why cant that chubby white guy with t the great hair and cheap suit that’s always on the hawks sideline be hired as the heac coach, He just looks like he has somethin tricky and inspirational up his sleeves!!!

By ???

March 25, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Why cant that chubby white guy with the great hair and cheap suit that’s always on the hawks sideline be hired as the head coach, He just looks like he has somethin tricky and inspirational up his sleeves!!!

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Hey RichBrave

Glad to see you are still kickin’ it! I thought I gave you a near heart attack or something.

Should I sing the THONG-SONG now? Hell to the NAW’ This team doesn’t deserve my passion. They don’t care about how uncomfortable I feel when they lose winnable games.

My razor-sharp nylon cheetah thong is going to the George Jefferson Dry Cleaners in the morning - for that DELUXE CLEANING in the SKY! :o

Because, in the morning? I’m Movin’ on Up! I’m gonna get my life together, get the stink of losing off my CHEETAH-THONG And start singing a new song - I have got to get my career back on track - I’m Going to Nail School! Oh Yeah, that’s right! I’m gonna give the KOREANS a run for the MONEY!!!

It seems like when the HAWKS beat a Good Team? - They take the next couple of Games Off. Why is that? Are they patting themselves on the BROKE-BACKS because they beat the MAGIC?

By Mac-Town

March 25, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

Maybe Jerome, Dominique and Steve Smith could be the coaching staff for the hawks. They seem like they know more than woodson and that assistant coach..the light skinned cat with the beard who looks likes he could easily be “Mike Woodson Jr.”

By preston

March 25, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

I think that it is safe to say that Marvin Williams should keep his day job as the mascot for Aflac Insurance!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 25, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

Marvin Squilliam Fancyson? At least Squilliam Fancyson is successful at something. Marvin needs to be taking orders at the Krusty Krab.

By jlewis

March 25, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Just begs the question, why wasn’t Billy allowed to fire Woody? I truly believe Josh Smith has ADD, how can a guy make the same stupid mistakes for 70 games, I am at a loss. Marvin is terrible, can’t catch, plays no D and does not rebound, this team needs an overhaul.

By terrell barron

March 25, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

Is it me, or does ole Marv look a little SLOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW? Like, short bus SLOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWW? Just asking.

By drmaryb

March 25, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Hey Altman BA or whoever the hell you are?

If you were not so damned stupid? -I would actually feel sorry for you!

The HAWKS just lost a winnable game and all you can do is beat up on a blogger? If you mess with my -RichBrave?- Man your’e messing with me! And I promise you - You don’t want to mess with me!

Your’e the person SEKOU was talking about in this opening article:

I would tell you to go to HELL But you probably VACATION there!

Don’t worry Richie-Baby I got your back like a Bobby Knight Tight Red Sweater! ;o

By drmaryb

March 26, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

And one more thing - that’s DR.B*** to you!

By atlman

March 26, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

drmaryb,

Why don’t you and Richie-Baby take that mess to Motel-6? Or Holiday Inn Express? Just go away!

By Tiger Woo

March 26, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

Time to cut our losses and ship Marvin out - just like we did with Shelden.

By ray

March 26, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

Today in the News

Honest Abe wins the weekly Nostradamus Award. This is an award instituted by the Ray Daily News for making the most accurate prediction before a game. Honest Abe rightfully predicted the following: It seems that whenever a game comes along that everybody figures the Hawks should win…they lose. Is this supposed to be funny? No. It’s actually both sad and frustrating. But either way, Abe wins the first Nostradamus award. So, before each game, let’s make some predictions?

No really, it will be fun…and therapeutic.

Marvin Williams has decided to try and make a statement by wearing a headband. Previously, Marvin took a lot of flak for looking like Goofy: long arms swinging aimlessly, hindquarters stuck out as if something was stuck in his a$$. Unfortunately the headband doesn’t quite do for him what it does for others. In fact, it pushes his ears down and out. Instead of looking like Goofy, he now looks like a 6’9” long-armed Ewok…with something stuck in it’s a$$.

Somebody mentioned this to Bob Rathbun. His response was “Ewok?? Where?!”. You get the feeling that even evil gremlins would be uncomfortable around this guy…

To be fair to Marvin, he didn’t play such a bad game. Well, unless you count the fact that he missed 11 of his 14 shots.

Mike Woodson revealed a previously unknown pose for the game against Chicago. At first, we didn’t know it was a new pose. Apparently it involves standing with his arms at his sides, head cocked to the right or left, and mouth partially open. One team doctor, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that this new pose is a result of some discoveries during Mike Woodson’s most recent physical. Apparently, extended use of the WAF (Woodson Arms Folded) maneuver, so aptly named by blog resident MannyT, has caused hairline fractures in Woodson’s ribs and sternum. You know, I just don’t think I could squeeze myself that hard…

Chicago Bulls forward Drew Gooden was asked about his generous sprout of facial hair. He had this to say: “My beard? Oh I love it. But those folks from Campbell’s won’t let me do any of their soup commercials. I don’t understand it.” Probably because you have to eat it from a bowl, Drew…and with that beard, you’d look like a Rabid Wookie.

Bad things come in threes.. Well troll number 1 (terrence) made his mark. Now troll number 2 (Jeff) has appeared. What does he have to say? “If the NBA playoffs opened today, the Hawks would lose to the Celtics.” How many times have bloggers said this already? Two or three blogs back, maybe more? Why does this MORON continue to committ Grand Theft Blog and call it writing? That’s it, I’m going to get a warrant right now dammit…

Tell me Terrence Moore’s article wasn’t ASG propaganda. It wasn’t even really about Dominique. They still don’t care about Dominique, they’re just using him to try and make themselves look good. But as usual, the raving lunatic idiots just couldn’t get the timing right. Why do you bring something like this up when your team has only 13 games left, is fighting for it’s very life to make it into the playoffs, and the one guy who is supposedly getting tutored by the Hall of Famer is NOT exhibiting any such signs that he’s learning anything truly useful? Makes me wanna puke.

I promise it’ll be funnier next time, there wasn’t much to laugh at.

That’s all for now..

By BA

March 26, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

I don’t appreciate the accusation. I didn’t post that crap. Why are you obsessed with homosexuals? Who knows, but leave me out of it. But I do know this: NO chirpractor is a doctor. Please go somewhere else to show your azz.

By drmaryb

March 26, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Hey DOC?

Can you please check up on RichBrave? Do you make house calls?

He’s being attacked by some mean old drunk A S S blogger. I can’t sleep knowing my man might be hurting. ;)

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

There’s the good Josh Smith and there’s the bad Josh Smith. I just cant decide if the good makes up for the bad or the bad makes up for the good. Or something like that. I’ve come to the conclusion, that Acie, Big Al, Chills, JJ, Mario and Bibby are the only players that I want to see on this roster next year. Lets use Marvin, Smoove, and Zaza for draft picks, some bench players, and a big. They’re driving me INSANE! Josh Smith is the Deangelo Hall of the Hawks. All the talent in the world, but would rather be on Sportscenter. And they both can blow a game or two, or three for ya. I love you Smoove, but I dont think I can take it any more. Maybe its just Woody allowing this nonsense to go on, but damn, damn, damn, as Florida from Good Times would say, it is so frustrating.

By drmaryb

March 26, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

A Parting Shot for the guy who lives in a Mobile Meth-Lab on Wheels

What is a Motel-6? I never heard of that. A Holiday Inn Express - I am way to smart to stay there.

If you want me? You can find me at the Ritz-Carlton in Buckhead! Oh - My Bad! You probably have never heard of that place.

You need money, looks and more that one BRAIN-CELL to get inside of there.

By richbrave

March 26, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Hey drmaryb,

Meet me at Motel-6 @ 1:00. Be there or be square. My gay lover just left.

By ugaman

March 26, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

Everybody ragged me when I made this suggestion earlier this year. Even then, I kept saying how Smoove kept killing us in games with his selfish play and lack of basketball intelligence. Marvin at least will play defense most of the time while Smoove is only looking for the weak side blocked shot. I would take David Lee in the off-season for Smoove in a heart-beat. Move AL to the 4 and start Chillz and have Marvin come off the bench with AC, ZaZa, Salim and Solo. With this line-up, we have two shooters coming off the bench and size in both line-ups. Lee is a really smart player, takes up space and makes consistent plays all night long. He dominated Josh when we played NY because he went straight at him. Sure, he doesn’t have the stats, but he makes all the small plays. Then you can put Horford on the block or use him on the screen and roll or screen and pop. His mid-range jumper is already much better than Smooves and he is only going to get better and better. Barkley even said that AL was going to be a monster player, Smoove will only get jealous and take shots away from him. Then you have Chillz spotting up and cleaning up the trash points and Bibby driving and dishing and setting everyone up and actually bringing the ball up the court instead of Smoove. Everyone can hate on this suggestion all you want, but I believe that Smoove is a bad fit on this team that needs consistency and unselfish play. We have a go-to scorer already in JJ, Horford would be the low-post presence (which Smoove could do, but won’t) and Bibby could spot-up with Chillz and Lee doing all the clean-up and dirty work. That’s a winning plan. Find unselfish players!!!!

By BA

March 26, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

“Ewok”?! Ray, you’re KILLING me! That’s what we needed tonight, some quality! I can only hope soon Woodson is on somebody else’s bench, squeezed in with some other assistants, where he belongs. And to whoever it was earlier, what makes you think that “white guy” would do any better? He’s been here the whole time and as far as I’m concerned, this whole staff is to blame- not just Woodson. A lot of Greg Anthony rumors are swurling on NY radio. I don’t know much about the guy, but at this point I’d take anybody!

By SalimFan

March 26, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

Ray, stop it you’re gonna make my insides bust! Halrious

And we can’t le Big Al off the hook either. He fumbled three passes also.

We are still gonna make the playoffs……….but right now I don’t even care.

And I wouuldn’t want salim to play in that game. He leaves it all on the floor and vapparently the team didn’t tonight. I hope marvin left the headband though…

Fublelina actually gave decent minuets again (why am I even pulling positives out of this?)

By drmaryb

March 26, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter what name you post under your’e still stupid.

You can’t even spell chiropractor! Stop using words you can’t spell. Didn’t I tell you that Home Schooling is not a real school.

Look up chiropractor on wikipedia and check out the curriculum and requirements before you open your B I T C H A S S mouth again. It’s the same as a MD without the pharmacology. Now you go back to sleep or school or whatever it is that you do!

By atlman

March 26, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

Oh! My bad, drmaryb …

I didn’t know you worked @ the Ritz-Carlton in Buckhead. I bet you do a great job cleaning those rooms!

By reese

March 26, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately, as Joe goes, the hawks go. Joe’s performance tonight is why the extrapolation of minutes played is a waste of time. The key reason is that it ignores the concept of diminishing returns. I think that woodson believes that playing Joe 48 minutes is a good thing. It doesn’t help when he gets criticized by many of you fans when he does sit Joe.

Several of us bloggers have been stating all season that Woodson needed to be playing bench players. Tonight is a prime example of why bench players needed to play. The 7 foot Noah is beating players down court. Unforced turnovers and having the ball slapped out of hawks players hands as well as being out hustled in the 3rd quarter were the major contributors to tonights loss.

Woodson’s lack of bench development thoughout the season and therefore his current lack of confidence in that same bench is frustrating.

Whats the use of having 15 assistant coaches if none of them will speak up and offer player rotation suggestions or recognize tired/lack of hustle players to woodson.

I wonder which assistant coach is assigned the task of evaluating the optimal number of minutes that each player produces his best results. In other words, on average JJ averages 28 points, 6 rbs, 8 ast etc when he plays 40 mins.

Because right now woodson says that it doesn’t matter at this point in the season. JJ and Bibby have to play heavy minutes. I guess it doesn’t matter if they continue to produce lower numbers with more minutes.

But what do I know.

By BA

March 26, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

It’s the same as a witchdoctor, but without the oil! That stuffs a big scam, and everybody knows it! You might as well be Miss Cleo! Or Dionne Warwick! You’re just a notch up from those chinese massage parlors! I wouldn’t talk about school, because you post like you went to school in Clayton! On a serious note, is the meth thing a racist thing, or do you see a lot of it, or something? You must have been attacked by some crazy, gay axe wielder on meth!

By HB Ando

March 26, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Ray, where you at? Got a brief window here, and you can’t be too far gone.

atlman, very weak of you to misrepresent Mary’s gig at the Ritz. I do a lot of venture cap meetings there, and, now that I know that she can be “found there”, I think you’re confusing housekeeping with full-service, no-reservations-required, companionship. Now the references to nylon, cheetah thongs makes perfectly good sense. Not that I’m judging, but I think we just got a whole new perspective on “manual adjustment”.

Mary, if you’re hangin’ at the Ritz tomorrow, during happy hour, I’ll probably be around, looking into a couple of upcoming deals……..

By BA

March 26, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

I wonder if she’s smart enough to figure out what dude(Ando) called her…

By HB Ando

March 26, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

Reese, do you not get a sense of deja vu, as we went through this same situation last season, only to see JJ’s calf blow out? I don’t know if you can put all this on Woody, as the Spirit continue to push the ridiculous notion that we’re up-and-coming on the local market.

It’s the height of sadness that we maintain a 35-win pace, and folks find optimism in what is objectively an utter failure. Our winning percentage is .429. Whether we stumble into the 8th seed or not, this isn’t a team that is a “year or two away”. This is an aimless, rudderless, leaderless abomination of bad management and under-funded ownership.

Maybe a solid draft will help….Oh, yeah, we don’t have any draft picks.

Really, how can anyone get excited about the best possible outcome being obliterated by the Celtics, in a four-and-out series? We currently have the 12th worst record in the NBA, which means that the Suns get a late lottery pick, while the Hawks scratch their asses, and watch the draft with nary a pick.

Swell.

By BA

March 26, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this

Ando, what if they clean house with the management? Would you concede that, if they got the right coach in here this could be a quality contender in the east? I know your Smith/Childress theory, but humor me- what if they brought back both guys? Which coaches would you like to see?

By Matt

March 26, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

All this hatin’ on Marvin is well-deserved. And yet too many people seem unable to acknowledge that Smith (he wasn’t Smoove tonight!) got outpositioned repeatedly and gave up 6-7 offensive rebounds. He’s as talented as anyone in the league, but like Marvin, he just doesn’t focus when he needs to. That -20 number on Smith is just killer.

It might just be me, but it seemed like Smith and Marvin exchanged shortcomings for a day! Marvin threw up stupid shots when he clearly didn’t have the stroke going, and Smith just didn’t bother to hustle or play aggressively. And did anyone else notice how Marvin and Smith BOTH dropped easy passes (and how they counted the dropped pass by Smith as a TO for JJ)? I mean, Smith, come on…pick someone else to imitate.

If people are gonna be smothering JJ with double teams every time he touches the ball like the Bulls did tonight, we need Smith and Marvin to find a Goldilocks solution (not too reckless, not too timid) and fast.

Ray - it’s funny because it’s true, bro.

By mykhalc

March 26, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

the only thing NOT deja vu about this season is HORFORD…PERIOD!!! all else has been seen, said, played, and F’n coached the same!! it ridiculous!!! (BIBBY gets a pass)

and gettin’ blown out by BOS doesn’t even bother me if we do make the playoffs!!! what bothers me is what makin’ the playoffs ‘might’ mean with this franchise…more of the f’n same next year, with the same cast drivin’ the bus off the cliff!!! it’s like watchin’ the LAW and ORDER reruns on TNT!!! i’ve seen ‘em all for gods’ sake!!!! somebody turn the channel and take the remote from these fools!!!!

By jami$$ion

March 26, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this

TRADING JOSH SMITH FOR DAVID LEE IS THE EQUIVALENT OF TRADING THE MATRIX FOR TROY MURPHY.SO JOSH SINGLE HANDIDLY LOST THE GAME.THIS TEAM IS TIRED.GUYS ARE PLAYING 40MINUTES A GAME ON THE REGULAR.THAT SHIITT IS UNHEARD OF. LIKE I SAID A GOOD COACH A HATE US IN THE 4TH SPOT.AND A GREAT COACH A HAVE US IN THE 3RD.WHEN YOU GUYS SEE REALITY AND REALIZE THESE GUYS BLEED LIKE US.AND ARE NOT ROBOTS OR A VIDEO GAME.THEN YOU’LL SEE HOW VALUABLE COACHING & CONDITIONING IS.

By mykhalc

March 26, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

HAWKS lose in the same way they’ve done most of the year and then we find out CLINTON and JOLIE are related!!! talkin’ about an F’ed up day visual day!!!!!!!!! my eyes!!! my eyes!!!! my eyes!!!

By ugaman

March 26, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

OK Jami$$on, you can’t blame fatigue on josh turning the ball over again and again in the first quarter. That is just poor basketball. The Hawks were close to pulling away from the Bulls in the first half when Josh started playing stupid and trying to handle the ball and make passes he’s not capable of, not to mention continuing to shoot that terrible jump shot he has. No, you can’t call that fatigue, you must hold him accountable for continuing to make the same mistakes now that he was making last year and the beginning of this year. You have to look at the team as a whole to understand what i am saying and the needs this team has. Josh could be a tremendous asset if he would play within himself and focus on his strengths (post play, rebounding, help defense), but he wants to be a superstar without putting in the work outside to become a good shooter and consistent one on one defender. He also doesn’t make up for his deficiencies with hustle, which is absolutely inexcusable for a team trying to make the playoffs. At least Marvin has been playing good defense by pressuring the person he is guarding and crashing the boards even when his shot has been off. I am talking about building a team that compliments each other and plays unselfishly and within itself. I can see JJ and the rest of the team lose steam when Josh makes some of the stupid plays hes does, and I don’t believe his good plays outweigh his bad plays at this point in time. There are times when I get so excited watching him play, only to be reminded of how poorly he knows the game and is ouot of position most of the time. He even stops movement on offense and it just shows me that he either doesn’t want to learn or can’t learn at this stage of his career. I predict that he is going to be nothing more than a more exciting Kirilenko, but never a superstar to build a team around like JJ and Horford have the potential to be. We might as well trade him over the summer while we can still get something of value for him. Maybe Lee and a draft pick from NY.

By reese

March 26, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this

HB Ando, I’ve quit caring about who owns the hawks, who is the GM and who is the coach a long time ago.

Now, I critique whomever the individual that happens to be in the respective role.

The ASG has already stated that they made the decision to honor Billy Knights suggestion 4 years ago to go the rebuilding route and that they knew that they would be blasted by the media.

The ASG were rookies and have made rookie mistakes. However, they talk to other owners and meet among themselves to correct their mistake and to discuss how and who will nuture/mentor the management staff they have in place.

Has night made mistakes? Yes. Has Woodson made mistakes? Yes. However, the ownership group knew that mistakes would be made and now they are not allowing Knight to scapegoat woodson when they all knew there would be struggles.

Are they right or wrong, I really don’t care anymore. Why don’t I care anymore, because to tell the truth, if I was in a their position, I would do things my way as well.

However, I would enjoy seeing the hawks make the post season and I don’t care if they lose in 4 games.

Currently, I’m taking things one game at a time because I realize that the hawks can lose to any team and win against any team.

I enjoy the games when I see 5 or 6 hawks players score double figures, 3 or 4 players block shots, multiple players get steals, multiple players have double digit rebounds, the guards rebounding and at least 1 guard have double digit assists.

When those scenarios occur, I prefer a win, but I can live with the effort. The contribution of bench players would be a bonus.

Am I asking for too much, yeah but so what. Good night

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 26, 2008 2:39 AM | Link to this

“We currently have the 12th worst record in the NBA, which means that the Suns get a late lottery pick, while the Hawks scratch their asses, and watch the draft with nary a pick.”

That is 100% wrong. The 14 teams that miss the playoffs enter the lottery, not the 14 teams with the worst record. The Hawks making or missing the playoffs is the difference between the Suns getting a lottery pick or a pick in the 15-18 range. As of right now the Suns would be picking 15th, and Denver and Portland would be picking ahead of Philadelphia.

And this is the #1 reason why I want the Hawks to make the playoffs, so that the Suns are not in the lottery. A stupid reason? Maybe, but that’s what it is.

By McLovin

March 26, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this

The fight for the 8th spot continues…………

By vava74

March 26, 2008 5:27 AM | Link to this

Josh Smith was creamed by a soft knucklehead power-forward who had a career night.

It is obvious that JSmoove is not a PF, nor a SF and that if we depend on him shutting down his direct opponent, we will be loosing many more games until the end of the season…

By Brian

March 26, 2008 6:58 AM | Link to this

Is it too late to fire Woodson? For crying out loud, the man gets out coached just about every single night! With the talent on this team, they should be at least 10 games over .500. I bet most fans could do a better job.

By Cee Jay

March 26, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

Maybe, just maybe the reason the Atlanta Spirit would not allow Knight to fire Woodson is they have plans to replace Knight. Allowing Knight to fire Woodson means he gets to select Woodson’s replacement and I don’t want Knight making any more decisions for this team… …not even travel arrangements.

I watched last night’s game versus Chicago and I actually lost it. Box scores from last night; Marvin Williams played 36 minutes, was 3 for 14 for 10 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 turn overs. In contrast Chris Paul played 49 minutes, was 9 for 19 for 31 points, 3 rebounds, 14 assists, 3 steals and 1 turnover.

For the season,Marvin’s fg% is .450, ft% is .100, 5.8 rebounds per game, 1.7 assists per game and averages 14.8 points per game. Chris’ has a .497 fg%, .376 3 point %age, 3.9 rebounds per game, 11.2 assists per game, 2.72 steals per game and averages 21.7 points per game.

Will someone please tell me what Knight saw in Williams to warrant drafting him over Paul (or Derron Williams)? He wasted the Sheldon Williams pick, wasted money on Speedy Claxton and don’t tell me Al Horford makes up for these misses. While Joe Johnson is good, he does not consistently play like the all star the team needs on a night in night out basis. He can’t carry a team.

Mike Gearon (Sr. and Jr.), if you’re reading this please fire Billy Knight. This city deserves better.

By Marvin Williams' Jump Shot

March 26, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

Can someone help me? I’m lost

By Astro Joe

March 26, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Reese, was Paxton scapegoating Skiles when he dumped him? Skiles didn’t pass up Aldridge for Tyrus Thomas (did he even play last night?). Skiles didn’t essentially trade Chandler for Ben Wallace. And for a team desperate for consistent offense, was adding Noah (whose one dimensional game mirrored Wallace) the right pick for that team?

No, seems like he was trying to save his team’s season. I truly do not understand the mind set that suggests anything other than trying to win more games is a good thing. There is no doubt that Woody has hit the ceiling as an NBA coach, right around 32-35 wins. The notion that the owners have kept BK on the sinking ship is ridiculous when there was a chance to remove gallons of water from that very ship. What does it say to players and fans when you stand by and do nothing? And as I continue to ask, if the owners decided that the 2 of them need to be linked together in futility, then fire them both… yesterday. Don’t stand by and do nothing.

Ando, I most definitely thought the more logical choice, after choosing a 6’8” forward with a great college pedigree, was the college player of the year who would have addressed a position of need. I can’t deny that was my logic at the time. Player of the year at position of need or high school forward who attended the school for talented but not so bright basketball players and is redundant with my earlier selection? Hmm. Silly me.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Joe plays 48 min. on a back to back. PATHETIC!

By Ken Strickland

March 26, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

When players get tired the 1st thing to suffer is DEF and turnovers. Woodson played Bibby, Chills and JJ into the ground. They had nothing left in the 4th qtr. Even though Marvin wasn’t doing much on OFF in the 1st half, he held Deng to 0 pts and 0 rebs. After Woodson took him out Deng woke up. I guess Woodson is like certain others who only see production in certain players in one dimensional perspectives.

Bottom line, we lost this one because of missed free throws and fatigue. After coming back from 16pts down we had nothing left, and Woodson wouldn’t give them any relief. You’d think he would have at least considered this was the 1st of back to back gms.

You can’t coach on the road the way you do at home. Everything’s different so you have to use a different approach. Have you noticed how we tend to fade(fatigue)much earlier on the road than we do at home? Once we cameback to within a point, we didn’t have enough to get over the hump. At that point he should have brought in fresh legs. We should have played Zaza, Richardson, Marvin, Acie and West together and turned up the DEF pressure with a full court press. We’re in a fight for the playoffs, so for once why can’t this fool at least try to think outside the box, or at least think, damnit.

The playoffs require an entirely different level of intensity and strategy. If this moron can’t recognize the need for a different strategy to get us into the playoffs, what can we expect if we’re lucky enough to stumble in? Sometimes I just feel like going down to the Hawks bench and putting my foot knee deep into Woodson’s anus. That seems to be the quickest way to stimulate his brain.

By richbrave

March 26, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

drmaryb:

I’m fine girl. Another bypass on the immediate horizon and I’m down for another ten years. Forget whomever is posting negativity. Don’t mean nothin’. Gotta’ go. Must finish my thesis. Runnin’ out of time. See you soon.

By Willie Coyote

March 26, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Why is this team never ready to play in the third quarter!!??

By CDS

March 26, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

9-26 on the road is not a playoff contending team. My biggest fear is that this team will make the playoffs only to get crushed by the Celtics and our owners will offer an extension to Woodson.

And what about Marvin Williams? Since we were so quick to write off Shelden Williams as a bust, how about this kid picked before Deron Williams and Chris Paul? He can’t play a lick of defense, has no inside game, and the team gives up far too many baskets when he is in the game. If BK is here next season, I think he’d better look to shop Marvin before his trade value drops any further. Childress is the key to this team winning, but it doesn’t help things when Woodson leaves him on the bench until near the end of the third quarter.

And I’d be careful about tonight’s game against the Bucks. They might be out of the playoff race, but that’s when you get teams who play much more free and have a chance to pull off an upset.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

9-27 on the road. wtf!

By Lil E

March 26, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

The problem with our team tonight is that it seemed like the only one who was playing with a sense of urgency was Childress. Everyone seemed to out of it, offensively. Marvin Williams had a horrible shooting night, missing easy jumpers off the front of the rim. We needed him to bail out Joe last night, and he failed. He needs to work on his conditioning. Al Horford had one of those rare bad games, although he still rebounded in double digits. Collectively, the team did a pretty bad job on the offensive boards. When ever someone has the ball in the post (and Al is guarding them), the burden is on everyone else to get in position and box out for a rebound. Josh Smith disappointed me a little bit last night. He shot well from the field, but it seemed like every good pass was followed by a boneheaded one. He made a great pass to Marv for an easy dunk, and then threw his patented 90 ft hailmary for a TO the next. Josh Childress is really played like a leader last night, although he came out a little rusty in the 3rd. He is deceptively quick and explosive, and his defense wasn’t as bad as it normally is. Mike Bibby played decent, but I just don’t like the few times when he forced long jumpshots with hands in his face. As much as I would like to blame Woodson for this loss, it just came down to our players playing with focus and effort. We missed entirely too many close shots in the second half. Anyways, we have got to win tonight to put some space between us and Indy. We need to also pray for a Nets and Bulls loss tonight.

Cee Jay, If I’m not mistaken, I think Chris Paul refused to come to Atlanta for his workouts that year. That was a very clear gesture that he had no interest in playing in Atlanta. The big knock on Deron Williams at the time was that he too big/slow to play the point in the NBA. The Marvin Williams pick only looks so bad with hindsight, but at the time it wasn’t as bad as the Shelden Williams pick was.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

The Nets play the Pacers tonight, so one of them HAVE TO WIN.

By Willie Coyote

March 26, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Chris Paul said that he wanted to be a Hawk and I’m pretty sure he came in with the other pgs for a workout.

By cp

March 26, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

I tried supporting Woodson even saying if they brought him back to bring in some better assistants but im done with this clown. They guy just refuses to try anything different… If guys are not producing sit them down its as simple as that. Like someone mentioned earlier, not developing the bench has really hurt this team. We have a back to back and some guys put up biggg minutes last night. If we lose to the Bucks, which is possible then I really think this team could go on another nose dive and miss the playoffs. Salim’s reaction last night on the bench after we ran down the court without the rebound summed up my feelings.. Flat out disgusted with this effort… Forget feelings play guys who are going to go out there and bust there butts and hustle. Im sick of seeing guys not even attempt to grab a rebound or dive for a loose ball. We have all these young horses but most times they dont seem to ever care….I dont think you can call Duck a bust but rather a dissapointment. Kwame Brown is a bust Marvin Williams is just a big a* dissapointment. We need a new name for Duck. Anybody remember the wr off of the movie THe Replacements who could not catch anything until they put sticky on his hands. I like Josh Smith but last night the guy looked like he could care less with his effort and body language. How in the hell did he let Noah outplay him. Pachulia should have gotten more playing time. He was having a great game but Mike Knapp is freaking clueless. What does Richardson and Salim have to do to get some damn run on this sorry team. I really dont see how these two could do any worse. If Woodson comes back next year I dont think I can keep watching this team. The guy is probably a nice person and all but a head coach he is not.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Could someone please tell me who that light-skinned brother with the beard is? You know, the one that sits beside Woodrow, and says nothing. And what about that big, dark haired white guy, who also has a beard. Who are these characters? And I’m being serious. Who the hell are they?

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Yall need to get over C.Paul. He’s not coming to Atlanta. You are not going to wake up one day, and find out that the 2005 draft was a fraud. We selected Marvin aka “Duck”, aka “Goofy” Williams, and N.O. selected Paul. It’s over and done with! Either trade him now or hope and pray that he somehow turns into the player that he was supposed to be. THAT’S IT!

By preston

March 26, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

terrell, all those cats can be found on the Hawks web page…….but the two in question are David Fizdale

http://www.nba.com/coachfile/david_fizdale/index.html?nav=page

and Wally Blase

http://www.nba.com/coachfile/wally_blase/index.html?nav=page

By preston

March 26, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

And I am with you over the Paul comments…..coulda, woulda, shoulda….aint no amount of complaining going to do anything but make us lament more. Paul has proven himself to be a hell of a player…infact he is what we hoped Williams would be……that once in every 10 yr player that Dominque talked about……but he won’t be playing here, so we should all just forget about it.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

So Fizdale was a scheduler, and a recruiter before he came to Atlanta. That’s just great! And ole Wally needs to be somewhere rubbing Craig’s knees, for crying out loud.

By Melvin

March 26, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Well if the Hawks suck again next season. There will be a grand prize waiting on them. His name is Greg Monroe. 6-10(legit) PF going to Georgetown next year and playing in tonite’s McDonald’s All-Star game. This kid can do it all. Josh Smith type ability with handles, jumpshot and passing skills…..

By I.MUS WRITE

March 26, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

OY

By I.MUS WRITE

March 26, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this

OY

By I.MUS WRITE

March 26, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Lil E- you are thinking about Brandon Roy, He said that he wouldnt work out for Atlanta and if drafted he would’nt play here…………………………… Chris Paul said he wanted to come here and play.

I hope all the Marvin supporters now realize the boi is a bust……He may b the worse Defensive player on our team….

By Willie Coyote

March 26, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

It’s funny, Marvin is the only one who seems to have regressed since the Bibby trade. Not sure why that is since there should be more open space for him to wrok.

By Ken Strickland

March 26, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

CP-let me be the 1st to welcome you to a club that’s growing by the minute. Don’t feel bad, because it’s better late than never.

TERRELL BARRON, PRESTON-you’re wasting your time. These guys, including some AJC writers, are too hung up on the concept of fantasy basketball to accept reality. Imagine if these coulda shoulda fantasy fanatics were old enough to remember when the Hawks drafted David Thompson, Marvin Webster and HS player Bill Willowby in the same draft and ended up with only Willowby. They also signed Julius Erving to a FA contract that same yr, and he actually played in a Hawks uniform during exhibition season. DThompson refused to sign because Hawks mgt wouldn’t sign his teammate and best friend, PG Monte Towe. MWebster rejected the Hawks because of the way they mishandled the Thompson situation. The ABA threatened to sue the Hawks for signing Doctor J, and Hawks ownership punked out and wouldn’t follow through. Think about it, how could the ABA sue the Hawks for doing what they’d previously done to the Hawks(remember the ABA signing former Hawks Zelmo Beatty and Jumpin Joe Caldwell).

If these guys are going crazy over Paul, Williams, Deng and Iggy, imagine how utterly stupid and foolish they’d be acting over the loss of Dr J, David Thompson and Marvin Webster, WOW.

If we lose tonight like we did last night, don’t be alarmed if you see paramedics trying to remove my foot/leg from Woodson’s anus. GOOD LUCK TONIGHT YOU HIGH FLYING HAWKS, ESPECIALLY IN TRYING TO OVERCOME WOODSON’S BS MOVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By MannyT

March 26, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

Folks, you amuse when you get so upset that the team had a down game after a better than expected one.

We are who we know we are—inconsistent. We might win tonight and we might not. The race for the 8th spot will be interesting because all of the team competing for it are flawed. It’s like reality TV—they don’t want to put normal folks on.

If mules and plow horses watched NBA hoops, I’m sure some of them would sit back with a cold one and say “I’m glad I don’t get worked as hard as that Joe Johnson. He should sue Woody for reparations.”

It will be interesting the rest of the way. Just grab a bottle and enjoy!

I’ll be there tonight. Let’s Go Hawks.

WAF

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

We need to root for Indiana tonight. If they beat Jersey and we beat the Bucks, we’ll still have a 1.5 game lead for the 8th spot. I know it5s wrong to look at it like that, but it’s the truth.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

WE DONT NEED NO DAMN PF! Got that one from my man Mel.

By preston

March 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Ken- that was some really good insight and perpspective on the pattern of ineptitude that has tormented this franchise and its’ fanbase for a number of yrs now.

By doc

March 26, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

manny t i was going to write a bit on the concept of who is still in the race but i was going to use the phrase severely flawed not flawed. funny how our fan base and ownership can see the holes on the other guys game but cant see how severely flawed this team is. we hear them say the other team is bad and has a poor record so we should be able to beat them forgetting that we are just as bad making it well, a true toss up.

sure getting to the playoffs might be a mile stone and is something to shoot for if it doesnt give us the same false confidence we have as we set expectations of being better than the other guy when we really arent.

there is the upper crust of maybe 6 or 8 teams that could go all the way. there is a level just below it that can be competive with the best but cant hold up for the long run. the next level is the teams that have true holes in their team but are well run along the lines of the wiz and philly. cavs probably and maybe orlando a bit higher on the pecking order. mix portland in there as well.

the next level which is where we are is the severely flawed teams for whatever reason who are pretenders to the playoffs in the east and also rans in the west. this year there are just a few really bad teams bringing up the bottom such as miami, memphis, seattle and the wolves. that is the only group that this organization has truly moved beyond and only the miami team is a surprise.

dont let playoff fever affect your reasoning and common sense. that isnt to say it isnt fun but it is not a stepping stone to something better unless major changes are made and that it takes more than organic growth which i had hoped and probably argued at one time would suffice. it might work in portland, didnt work in chicago though it would have if roy had been added and chandler kept. just hasnt proved to be the way to go in a nut shell though in theory it sounds great.

so what i say might not be politically correct but it is said just the same. now off to the gam woth the jhan master of the greta seats. mannyt be at the game hovering around the pretzels at half time on the side the teams sit on with a whitish beard and bit over 6 foot if you want to share a bit.

i expect to see yi up close for the first time since he is back playing again after an injury. ominous sound of the bucks coming at us though as they play well and match up to us usually fairly well especially charlie v and bogut with redd usually shooting lights out and mo tearing us up down the middle. just cant explain why they havent gelled yet except they are truly severely flawed.

By new jersey faithful

March 26, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

Chills comes off the bench because he is a spark. If Chills started, could you imagine MV being the first option off the bench and coming in games playing like he does???? Chills is CLEARLY better, but he provides a spark when needed. Chills isn’t perfect, but he is so well rounded as a player, and just excells under and around the basket, it great to watch him play!!!

By **NATIVE SON**

March 26, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

O-KAY NOW, HERE WE GO-MARVIN IS A SCORER( HE NEEDS HELP WITH BREAKING OUT OF HIS SHELL) AND FROM WHAT WE CAN GATHER FROM HIS BIO, HE’S A HIGH CHARACTER KID, WHO DEFERS TO HIS ELDERS. IN GEORGIA, HE’D BE CONSIDERED JUST A GOOD OL’ COUNTRTY BOY. GIVE THE KID SOME TIME, OR YOU CAN BE THE FIRST ON YOUR BLOCK TO SAY HE GOT GOOD AFTER HE LEFT. ON THE MATTER OF J. CHILLS, I APPRECIATE HIS PLAY, PROBABLY BETTER THAN MOST, BUT HE ‘S A HUSTLE/GARBAGE PLAYER, AND HE CAN’T CONSISTENTLY SHOOT THE THREE BALL. AND IF YOU GO BACK TO LAST YEAR, MORE THAN A SLEW OF YOU, WANTED TO HAVE THE GUY TRADED, BUT NOW HE SHOULD GET MARVIN’S MINUTES.(LOL) HOWEVER, WHAT I DO AGREE ON IS FOR WOODY TO FIND J. RICH SOME TIME, OR ANYBODY ON THE BENCH( EXCEPT ZSA ZSA DA-BORE, BUT I DIGRESS ) IT’S A NO - BRAINER. BLOG ON FELLAS. PEACE.

By new jersey faithful

March 26, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this

Im sure Woody sees everything opposite as the fans. Like to play the guys that are producing is our thought, where as Woody is thinking I have to play all my regulars as much as possible to win, regardless of how they are playing! MV didnt drop it…YAY!!!!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Woody said that Al looked fatigued last night, thats why he put in Zaza. No freakin kiddin! What about Joe? Does he not look at him.

By Matt

March 26, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Aaaaaaaand Josh Smith throws the ball away. Again.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

WOW marvin is lighting it up and woody puts in chillz, what a waste of a potential break out game for marvin

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

Ughhh smoove lost it on the dribble, can we please stop posting him up on the three point line

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this

That was a terrible pass by bibby, but i have to wonder how is acie always blocked everytime he gets closed he needs to learn how to put it off the glass. and i see that biby and josh are resting while joe is still out there

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

WTF Mario just fouled redd for no reason so stupid

By new jersey faithful

March 26, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Two years(i think)ago Chills shot the 3 pointer pretty well, and this year he shooting great, so maybe last year was a fluke!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Take him off the dribble Marvin! But you do know that you can only take 2 steps. Dont you?

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

Offensive rebound, after offensive rebound, after offensive rebound, after offensive rebound, after offensive rebound, after offensive rebound, after offensive rebound!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

WTF JOE HOW THA HELL DID YOU MAKE THAT SHOT, atleast you can smile

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Horford and Zaza has 2 fouls a piece. Lets see if Solomon gets some burn?

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

LOL marvin accidently caused that steal

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Zaza looks like he finally woke up from his 60 game nap!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

I was right. A Solomon sighting!

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Can we please give joe some rest now, sigh…

By new jersey faithful

March 26, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

One of the biggest games of the year so far….how will they come out in a crucial 3rd QT???

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

SOLOMON!!!and then he fouls bogut lmao

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this

I am so glad that we dont have redd, all he is is a chucker, while atleast joe shares the ball

By fritzenheimer

March 26, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Anyone notice that Herb Brown is back on the bench? Wonder what it means?

By ugaman

March 26, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Well at least we seem to have more energy tonight. I can’t underestand why teams seem to hit every jump shot they take when they play us. If Marvin ever learns how to finish at the rim, he could be dangerous. Joe is on fire again tonight and Bibby just drained a 3. Gotta love it. This is a must win for confidence sake!!

By ugaman

March 26, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Joe is playing great D on Redd

By HA!!

March 26, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

Another great pass by josh smith….sorry but he’s dumb as rocks

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

And josh smith thinks that he is magic johnson

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Is that ref blind its a flagrent 2 he didnt even go after that ball!!!!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

How is it that we seem to turn normal players into All-Stars.? Is that Andrew Bogut or Dwight Howard?

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

WTF PACHULIA WAS WIDE OPEN OMG!!!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Just slam the damn ball Zaza! Quit looking for a f*** foul.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 26, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Wait… it’s only the 3rd quarter?

I just turned on the game, saw 92-82, a minute left, and figured the game was about to be over.

Are the Hawks trying to not play defense?

Pretty ugly box score today too, with the exception of Joe Johnson. Stats certainly don’t mean everything, but what cruise line did Josh Smith and Al Horford choose to go on vacation today?

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Damn, Bibby just hurt his thumb. Lets see if he comes out for the 4th quarter.

By ugaman

March 26, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Can we keep up the intensity or will we relax and let them come back. We will be able to tell how serious the Hawks are about playing good playoff basketball in this 4th quarter. If they let the Bucks back in it, then they are definately not going to make the playoffs and it will just show that they have no clue how to compete yet.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Pretty good game so far, but bibby looks injured, nice pass by joe he couldve had an easy layup but he gave to chillz..

By Juice

March 26, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

Will someone please put J Rich in the game so he can get some playing time!?!

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 26, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Zaza feeds Marvin under the hoop with a perfect pass for a dunk? Are these the bizarro Hawks?

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 26, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Andrew Bogut gets raked across the face and starts bleeding and no foul is called… I think this may be the first time ever that a bad call that blatant has gone in the Hawks’ favor.

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Augh bogut got fouled no doubt look at all of that blood, that sneaky little wonderboywilliams

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

Najeh what about chillz look at his line pretty good for a 6 man

By Tiger Woo

March 26, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Way to go! Nice bounce back game by Duck tonight! And Chris Paul only has 15 points tonight (forget about his 19 assists).

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Chris Paul Had 20 assists, not 19. And the last one won the game.

By Atl Flavor

March 26, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

Bibby PLEASEEEEEEE Be OK!! Probably out Friday. Mannnn! But if not Acie really looked alot better driving and shooting. Maybe he is finally getting back. Great effort on 2nd side of a back to back. Woody even did a little coaching tonight on Mike Redd and Bogut. Bench Played. Just a good win!

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Woody just said that Bibby should be ready to go by Friday. I sure hope so.

By new jersey faithful

March 26, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Great win! They MUST beat the Bulls Friday night!!!!

By Tiger Woo

March 26, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

terrell,

Chris Paul only had 19 assists when I posted. Yes, he ended up with 20. At least Duck outscored him tonight. Goofy the great!

By Nate ArchiBALL

March 26, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Is Chris Paul the MVP of the league? The Hornets are the leading the Western Conference followed by the Lakers and the Rockets. Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant are surrounded by way more talent than the Hornets.

By cp

March 26, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Good Win. Duck actually showed up tonight. Law showed that he should get more minutes. Pachulia was pretty good other than that missed shot right under the hoop. Someone tell him that he does not have to pump fake every damn shot. Good production from the bench. Childress is looking real good going into the crucial stretch that we have coming up. It is a shame we dont come out with this type of energy and intensity every game. The Bucks other than Bogut and Redd are terrible. YI looks like he is lost, is very weak, plays no defense, just another tall guy who loves to shoot the jumper. We need to take care of Chicago Friday

By hawksfanfordawin

March 26, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

HEY DECDAWG if your out there, joe singlehandidly stopped redd, while scoring more points then him and dishing out 8 dimes

By doc

March 26, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

good game against a very dysfunctional bucks team. that is the type of win that is needed against that bad of a team. they looked awful not because of the hawks. it is just they are that bad.

fun to see williams hit the open shots and the team come back in the second and take control in the third. where is this team more often?

enjoyed the brief chat with sekou and a “friend” of the blog.

for whatever reason yi is not a member of the bucks.

By Steve T

March 26, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this

In order for the Hawks to make the play-off push, they will need that kind of production from the bench.

Chill had 20 points Zaza had 9 points AC had 10 points Solo had 2 points

Steve Smith said that duck need to work on his range and he will be able to hit shoots from the 3. He also talked about that sweet shooting stroke. May be Steve needs to work with Marvin over the summer.

I know people doubted AC, but I have always said that when his shot starts to him this kid will be like Tony Parker. He can drive to the basket at will.

By jami$$ion

March 26, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

THIS GOES OUT TO ANDO,DOC,RICHBRAVE,DECDAWG,UGA,CLYDE,MARY JANE,AND ANY OTHER POOR,,TORTURED,LOST SOUL.TRAPPED INSIDE THIS FAUX MIRAGE OF A LABIRYNTH KNOWN AS THE ATLANTA HAWKS. first off nothing built on Earth is perfect to the point that it will not crumble,except the pyramids built by my ancesters in Egypt.second my comrads there is no such thing as a sure shot in life(mike tyson over buster,pats over giants,falcs over vikings,bowie over mj,kwame brown,mike vick).so all the things in the past,in the words of kiesha cole let it go.we can only learn from our mistakes,we will not get anywhere dwelling on them. ANDO i read a comment the other day you posted.it was in regard of resigning the joshes.and why we would not be able to.Ando i know yu know the expression.sh!t rolls down hill.and our hawks are at the bottom of the septic tank,with a over flowing compost pit at the apex of the mountain side.but in my opinion scared money don’t make money!it’s plenty of teams that have four & sometimes five guys recieving double digit millions.and the majority of these teams are playoff championship caliber teams.for example lakers,suns(shaq,steve,amare,barbosa,diaw makes 10 mill),gs(baron,jack,al)dallas(kid,josh,dirk,dampier,jt),i can go on and on even weak teams like ny(qtip,zack,starbury,jamal,jerome james,curry,)indy(jo,dunleavy,murphy,tinsley).my point is if they want to win.and they think the core of the joshes,jj,bibby,and horford can do it with a little extra help.it can be done.no doubt about it. our organization is just so imbalanced,uneducated,thrifty,unethical,and down right ignorant to the business of operating a profitable ,enjoyable product.and i hate to blame anyone,because the organization from the ballboy,fan,harry the hawk, to the ceo is responsible for participating in this fiasco. Did BK get it right?No .but i can live with the few missteps he has made.it”s just the missteps he has made are crucial ones.being it marvin oveer deron(my choice)and paul,or signing speedy.i can actually live with shells cause he was a need,that didn’t get a chance to pan out under woody.for all yall whining,we still turned him into bibby.a 5th pick for bibby aint bad.it’s better than what boston gave up for an even older ray allen (a fifth,and three players.roy is a good player,but we had him already in jj.and do you guys ever notice whenever we play chicago or philly chills outshines both guys who you think he can’t compete with?jsut because woody doesn’t see him as a starter doesn’t meanhe is not one.just as just because bk drafted a benchwarmer.it doesn’t mean he’s better than chris paul. in closing aint nothing gonna change,until we reconfigure the make up of this team.we can have a clean home without having to clean house.we have the players a vet here and there a work wonders.and a provide the proper guidance for our young troops.since there is not anyone to lead them.boys can’t raise boys into men!a greg anthony,kenny smith,or mark jackson would make a good coach ,or gm for this organization.since i don’t see the broke spirit leaving anytime soon.at least we can up lift it.thank you.

By jami$$ion

March 26, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

THIS GOES OUT TO ANDO,DOC,RICHBRAVE,DECDAWG,UGA,CLYDE,MARY JANE,AND ANY OTHER POOR,,TORTURED,LOST SOUL.TRAPPED INSIDE THIS FAUX MIRAGE OF A LABIRYNTH KNOWN AS THE ATLANTA HAWKS. first off nothing built on Earth is perfect to the point that it will not crumble,except the pyramids built by my ancesters in Egypt.second my comrads there is no such thing as a sure shot in life(mike tyson over buster,pats over giants,falcs over vikings,bowie over mj,kwame brown,mike vick).so all the things in the past,in the words of kiesha cole let it go.we can only learn from our mistakes,we will not get anywhere dwelling on them. ANDO i read a comment the other day you posted.it was in regard of resigning the joshes.and why we would not be able to.Ando i know yu know the expression.sh!t rolls down hill.and our hawks are at the bottom of the septic tank,with a over flowing compost pit at the apex of the mountain side.but in my opinion scared money don’t make money!it’s plenty of teams that have four & sometimes five guys recieving double digit millions.and the majority of these teams are playoff championship caliber teams.for example lakers,suns(shaq,steve,amare,barbosa,diaw makes 10 mill),gs(baron,jack,al)dallas(kid,josh,dirk,dampier,jt),i can go on and on even weak teams like ny(qtip,zack,starbury,jamal,jerome james,curry,)indy(jo,dunleavy,murphy,tinsley).my point is if they want to win.and they think the core of the joshes,jj,bibby,and horford can do it with a little extra help.it can be done.no doubt about it. our organization is just so imbalanced,uneducated,thrifty,unethical,and down right ignorant to the business of operating a profitable ,enjoyable product.and i hate to blame anyone,because the organization from the ballboy,fan,harry the hawk, to the ceo is responsible for participating in this fiasco. Did BK get it right?No .but i can live with the few missteps he has made.it”s just the missteps he has made are crucial ones.being it marvin oveer deron(my choice)and paul,or signing speedy.i can actually live with shells cause he was a need,that didn’t get a chance to pan out under woody.for all yall whining,we still turned him into bibby.a 5th pick for bibby aint bad.it’s better than what boston gave up for an even older ray allen (a fifth,and three players.roy is a good player,but we had him already in jj.and do you guys ever notice whenever we play chicago or philly chills outshines both guys who you think he can’t compete with?jsut because woody doesn’t see him as a starter doesn’t meanhe is not one.just as just because bk drafted a benchwarmer.it doesn’t mean he’s better than chris paul. in closing aint nothing gonna change,until we reconfigure the make up of this team.we can have a clean home without having to clean house.we have the players a vet here and there a work wonders.and a provide the proper guidance for our young troops.since there is not anyone to lead them.boys can’t raise boys into men!a greg anthony,kenny smith,or mark jackson would make a good coach ,or gm for this organization.since i don’t see the broke spirit leaving anytime soon.at least we can up lift it.thank you.

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

The game Friday is the biggest yet. If we can beat the Bulls and Indiana can knock off New Jersey at home, we’ll be in excellent shape. We’d be 3.5 up on Indiana, 4 up on Chicago, and 2 up on New Jersey. Here’s to Bibby’s health!

By MannyT

March 26, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

jami$$ion Dude, I like an key for $200 please.

I need to go take a break so I can read the post. Probably useful, just really hard on the eyes.

Just remember, you don’t have to have a winning organization to be profitable. Lots of business people run that there ASG. As long as they are putting up banners for Widespread Panic, I doubt they are in that state.

Three of the wisest words ever put together…follow the money

By terrell barron

March 26, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Peter Vescey just mentioned how much he loved Chills game. He said that he’s going to be a restricted free-agent at the end of the year, and if he was a GM, he’d go after him. He also stated that since he’s restricted, some other team will probably OVER PAY to get him. He said nothing about Josh Smith, however. Looks like our boy Chills is getting more attention than we think. Could we lose BOTH. It’s possible.

By DecDawg

March 27, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

hawksfan,

You’re right…Redd only shot 60% from the field for 20 pts in 31 mins. Good job JJ! I guess we’re just lucky he didn’t take more than 10 shots. But I will admit that JJ has been playing better defense in the last week. I just wish we didn’t have to wait 60+ games for some effort on D.

By MannyT

March 27, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

doc the gremlins/censors ate my prior post. Maybe it was reference to Russian Women’s hoops, Atlanta Dream, or Woody pic. I’ll split them out and try again to learn what is worth censoring.

Sorry I missed your note and you at the game tonight. I was there in fan Siberia, i.e. the 300s. It reminded me of a year ago after JJ shut it down. More words in jami$$ion post than people up there tonight.

I plan to be there early on Fri for season tix holder event. Will definitely make it to half time social area. I think it would be fun to meet the bloggers.

To your earlier point about the flawed teams. It is quite interesting to see how less flawed Philly & Washington are right now. Between them, they have beaten the Spurs, Pistons, Hornets, and Celtics this month. I think their fans can expect them to battle in the playoffs.

Half of the time, I expect to see Jim Mora Sr in front of the arena yelling about playoffs.

It was good to see Chills do his thing tonight filling in for Bibby in the 4th. I am also glad that the regulars got some rest and the bench ditched Witness Protection and got some time at the end.

By MannyT

March 27, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

Let’s see First there was the thing about Russian Women’s Basketball. The WNBA players have to go there to make real money.

By MannyT

March 27, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

Then there was the thing about the Atlanta Dream. Maybe better value for my season ticket $$$ there than staying in the 300s when the price doubles.

By MannyT

March 27, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

…and finally (3rd) there was imagining how BK must feel as he sees Philly & Washington knocking off good teams in March while we struggle.

Enough for him to stike the Woody pose…WAF

By MannyT

March 27, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

Gee if you put the symbols above the comma and period into the post, it removes them.

jami$$ion that prior odd response started as below but I used the bad keys instead of the italics…

Dude, I like an enter key for $200 please.

I’m done for the night.

WAF

By reese

March 27, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

First of all, great win against the bucks.

Astro Joe, I really don’t know much about the bulls decisions on hiring paxson and allowing paxson to get rid of skiles. I don’t even know who owns the bulls or if they have the same ownership from the Jordan era.

However, I do agree that the moves that they have made do not seem to have helped their chances at making the playoffs.

By Daniel

March 27, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

terrel barron - I have been worried about Chill being ‘stolen’ in free agency for awhile. I still think he is more valuable than Melvin and should be starting and playing heavy minutes. He’s just so SMART on the court and that is often the thing that kills us. He is also a low maintenance personality and when you put that with the rest of his skills you just have to lock him up for the long term.

By ray

March 27, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

Today in the News

Zaza Pachulia got more minutes than he has in a long time. During the interview at the half, I got the distinct impression that he’s not happy here. I wouldn’t be either if I was in his position, but then…there is a matter of his performance. He didn’t have too bad of a game tonight, and contributed some key rebounds, baskets, and even played some decent defense in stretches. But more on him later…’cause you know I gotta make fun of somebody…

Do you ever notice that when we’re winning, the camera doesn’t show Mike Woodson very much? I wonder what he looks like when we’re winning? I know what he looks like when Joe Johnson comes to the bench for a rest…oh wait…that never happens…Okay, I know what he looks like when Bibby comes to the bench. Woodson starts crying, hugging, and snottin’ all over him. Maybe that’s why Bibby didn’t want to come out of the game against Orlando.

Joe Johnson has gotten on a real tear here. And his defense has been good too. The minute we got smart and put him on Michael Redd, Redd got shut down. The problem is, it’s much harder to defend a guy when he’s already hot. Woodson you numbskull, the idea is to put a stopper on a guy before he torches you for 19 in the first quarter! Unfortunately, Woodson isn’t the only one to blame. Josh Smith repeatedly let the pick and roll beat him, putting Joe up against Villaneuva. Josh, get your head in the game.

Speaking of Josh Smith, he made some bad passes, but also made some good ones. I think some of his bad passes are coming from him expecting a teammate to go to a certain spot or be paying attention when he passes it. I watched this very closely. A couple of times, he shoveled a pass toward Pachulia while either in the air, or driving to the basket. Each time, Pachulia turned away and was looking towards the basket for a rebound. The third time, Pachulia caught the pass, but couldn’t convert it. Also, Josh gets himself into the air too soon, and doesn’t know precisely what he wants to do with the ball. It’s all well and good when he makes one of those long passes to a teammate in the corner or outside the arc. But in traffic, it always gets stolen or deflected. Somebody should be teaching him this….Dominique!…tell Jerome Jurenovich to get off of his knees so that you can get back to work…and teach Josh something meaningful!

Getting back to Zaza (you knew it was coming)…what is dude’s problem? I swear watching him when somebody throws the ball into him is like watching a cheap horror movie. You know ahead of time that something bad is going to happen, and that it’s going to be both ugly and cheesy. Not just that, but it’s like he can’t play in any sort of tense or competitive situation without falling down. He fell down with nobody anywhere near him, looking for a foul (from who?). Dude falls down more than the girl in the recurring opening scene of “Little House on the Prairie.” Maybe we should start a new show and call it “Little Georgian on the Hardwood”….

Andrew Bogutgot whacked in the face by Marvin Williams. If you saw the game, you saw it happen. Look, I know it was a foul and that Marvin deserved to be called for it. But I don’t feel the least bit guilty by saying that Bogut deserved at least one good shot. All night long, he was hammering Zaza, Al, and Solo. A couple of times, I saw him practically shoving Zaza away from the basket while he went after a rebound. His forearm was practically in Zaza’s throat. He did the same thing to Solo a few times, along with Childress. And then it seemed that anytime one of our guys so much as sneezed in his direction, we got a foul called on us. Gimme a damn break! The officiating SUCKED. So when Bogut went down, I thought…hmph…you get what you give. ‘Nuff said. Besides, you pansy-a$$…Josh Childress’ narrow a$$ got thrown to the ground and got up faster than that…I’m going to start calling Bogut, “Bogus.”

I’d still like him on our team though. He’s smart guy with skills and knows how to maximize his abilities…

We won! But here’s something to think about: let’s say we make it to the playoffs. Let’s say that this causes both Billy AND Woody to retain their jobs. Is this a good thing or bad thing? Would you rather us lose and Woody and/or Billy be fired (remember, we’re going to get beaten like a drum in the playoffs anyway), or win and retain both? It could happen…

And that’s all for now…

By HB Ando

March 27, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

I didn’t know we have a player named Melvin…..

Joe, it was “silly you”. The player we took in the lottery, despite his college accolades, came with some fairly obvious question marks (world’s ugliest set shot and body of a 13-year old). Projecting NBA success is clearly more than lining up first-team NCAA All-Americans (see: Shelden Williams). Do you choose to argue that your preference for Jameer Nelson, over Josh Smith, has any objective reinforcement? If not, why bother acting indignant about simply being wrong in your assessment about the decision? How about being a man about it, and just acknowledging you were completely wrong?

BA, instead of continuing to play silly, name-calling games, you have asked me a specific question: “which coaches would I like to see?”.

My answer starts with replacing Billy Knight with someone who has a greater level of established competency. Given our current situation, that could be Howie Mandel. But I think it’s important to bring someone in who has peer respect around the league, a track record for personnel evaluation, and a long-standing history with the NBA. Why not a Kevin Loughery? And as a coach, why not a Rudy T.? Can you objectify an opinion on why that kind of combination wouldn’t be an upgrade over Billy and Woody?

I addressed a similar question in the previous days, from last year, regarding who we could seek, that would be an upgrade over Woody. I pointed to both Houston and Orlando, hiring Rick Adelman and Stan Van Gundy, respectively, as proof that better options are always available, if you bother to seek them out.

It’s less about who could do a better job, than Billy and Woody (who couldn’t?), and more about the ASG’s lack of credibility, around the NBA, and the challenge that creates in getting someone solid to join the organization.

Better folks are out there. But the uncertainty of who, and how soon the ownership issues will be resolved, will be running the show, continues to limit the possibility of bringing in top talent.

By Matt

March 27, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

The first quarter was basically Michael Redd and Andrew Bogut vs. the Hawks. Redd is maybe the streakiest player in the NBA, and he was having one of those spurts where there was just no way of stopping him. I saw him hit two treys and a fadeaway jumper from 19 feet with a hand in his face. Also, the blind criticism of someone who obviously didn’t watch the game (and who I said I was done talking to) obviously didn’t account for the fact Marvin was guarding Redd as much as JJ was for much of the first quarter because the Hawks were switching on screens rather than fighting through them (presumably to keep from getting fatigued early).

The impressive thing was watching JJ’s D after he realized that Redd had a hot hand. He stopped switching on screens, played Redd tight to deny him the ball, and generally made sure Redd couldn’t do the catch-and-shoots that allowed him to rack up points in the first. The result? JJ barely let Redd get a shot off and held him to just 1 point after the first - and he still scored 28.

If JJ doesn’t win Eastern Conference Player of the Month, something is very wrong with this world.

(Oh, another thing wrong with the world - the absurd number of empty seats at Phillips tonight. Once again, proof that Atlanta has the most lackluster sports fans of any major city in America. If it ain’t college football, people just don’t get up for it down South.)

By Matt

March 27, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

Ray,

Was JJ just not assigned to Redd in the first, or were the Bucks just setting off-the-ball screens for Redd? I thought it was the latter, because I just couldn’t fathom that Woodson would actually assign our weakest perimeter defender to guard their best perimeter shooter. All I know is what you apparently saw as well - every time I looked up in the first quarter, it seemed like it was Marvin who was guarding Redd. Maybe I still give the good coach too much credit. Heh.

In any case, good post as always.

By BA

March 27, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this

Ando: I LIKE Rudy T. Credibility is one thing, but the ASG need to pony up for a legit coach. Enough cash gains you instant credibility. Three months ago, I would’ve been of the same opinion as yourself in regards to ASG being cheap. But they DID trade for Bibby, and the man in’t cheap. So either they WILL spend a little on the basketball side or they want to win enough to stretch the budget. Or (hopefully) both. If they were willing to trade for this guy I’ve GOT

By BA

March 27, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

Sorry, scratch that. Everybody, check the new blog.