Hawks

By The_Future

April 17, 2008 2:27 AM | Link to this

REST. HEAL. PRACTICE. HUSTLE. WIN.

By EC

April 17, 2008 4:22 AM | Link to this

Hard to understand the reasoning for having the starters in for a nonchalant effort. Woodson, has been around I know, but it just seems some guys are born to be assistant coaches and thats respectable. His lack of development of the bench is puzzling, and he really could have gotten those guys more time for these last two games. The playoffs can be grueling and many times you see sparks from reserves, who are fresh from lack of minutes, who just need the chance. Salim could easily be the Daniel Gibson of the playoffs this year. Are maybe even Acie. Josh Smith is bound for foul trouble against all the Celtics bigs and then what. ZaZa with his 4 inch vertical. Still can’t understand why they didn’t get a big a the trade deadline. There are a few 6’11 or bigger stiffs who could at least bang around down there. We have nobody. If Joe and Bibby aren’t on, and both have to be on, it can and will get ugly. But it is great to be in the mix after all the years of missing the show. My family we are huge basketball fans and its hard to believe this is the first time my teenage sons are old enough to see and remember the Hawks is the playoffs. I’m getting my Ken Norman jersey out the cleaners Friday. Its going to be sickning to listen to the gripes about how bad our fans are. I think Atlanta has the smartest fans in America, we don’t support crap. If you put out a real product the fans will come.

By dre

April 17, 2008 4:40 AM | Link to this

I don’t get it. Why would Woody leave multiple starters in the last 2 games against scrubs when the games mean nothing? He sits out key players with 2 fouls for the rest of the half in big games, but he subs Joe Johnson in for a last ditch effort to beat Miami in game 82? Our top 6 players have played huge minutes in games which we have had big leads vs Memphis/New York so you would think the Hawks of all teams would cherish the opportunity to play the bench in two meaningless games. I seriously have no idea how Woodson managed to keep an NBA coaching job for 4 years.

In addition to running the starters into the ground(while Boston’s bench has been firing on all cylinders while the Big 3 rest)…Woody has also done a fairly good job in destroying Acie Law. It seems like all the swagger he had in college has just been sucked out of him. I hope Billy Knight(not to high on him either) called Woodson and let him know how much of an idiot he is for refusing to play Law after going 5-5 with no turnovers against Orlando. I know Law is a rookie, but he hate to hate Woodson and/or wish he was drafted by another team by now.

By BA

April 17, 2008 4:43 AM | Link to this

How many practices before game one? How do you practice for K.G.? Sekou, are you doing the mohawk too? Who’s Joe going to guard? Who’s going to guard Cassell? “Solomon. Wake up son- ZaZa has three fouls. Do you remember our five plays?”

K.G. is a FREAK of nature. Not much you can do. The Hawks have got to play perimeter defense OUT OF THEIR MINDS to stay close. Boston can nail some threes. And for us to win any of these games, Joe and Bibby are going to have to rain threes like a video game to keep up. Bibby is the key, he's a problem for little Rhondo offensively-and Rhondo doesn't have much on offense for Bibby to guard. These are great things to talk about this time of year, underdogs or not.

By BA

April 17, 2008 5:04 AM | Link to this

Eventually Woodson has to be held accountable for wasting a year of development for FOUR young players with potential (Law, Stoudamire, Jones and Richardson). Especially Law. The Hawks will have to win three series in a row with seven players for Woodson to sniff an extension.

By doc

April 17, 2008 7:17 AM | Link to this

ba i dont know what server you use dude but you tend to fade out at the end.

frankly this team is not good enough to turn it on and turn it off. no momentum going in and where aj was pointing out how well their record looked a few days ago for a ten game span it doesnt look as good now. even the celts were taking care of business down the stretch as even after they had finished with the best record and on top of its division with “nothing to play for”. even steve smith said it had been a perfect opportunity to get the bench players some play time last night but our great head coach woody couldnt come to grips with how tired of playing his front liners were.

as we all know it is very hard to be a hawks fan and care abut this team and how dysfunctional it remains. i say this after dropping significant coin yesterday for the opportunity to see this team and how it will play on prime time stage. you know this run of not playing the bench almost seems a shot at bk by woody. is this the under current of what this is all about, showing up his boss in a very indirect way? is bk in agreement of this and is he sitting there agreeing with this use of the guys he has chosen to fill out the roster? is this a way for woody to get back at the gm for trying to fire him by suggesting over one third of his roster cant play in the nba? enquiring minds want to know how this really reads and is it a power struggle where the bench gets caught in the middle.

By richbrave

April 17, 2008 7:46 AM | Link to this

BA:

My man. How YOU doooin’?? The Hawks are in. Now a Braves magic pill is called for.

By FUNK DAT

April 17, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this

FIRE WOODSON!!!! The guy will have absolutely no strategy against the Celtics, but hopin that the 7 players he plays will have 4 of the most spectacular games of their lives to win the series. The odds of that are extremely slim to null. I dont think Woody comprehends the idea of a spark comin off the bench when our 6 players are not clickin on all cylinders. When that happens, if not only for a few minutes, expect the game to be long out of hand as the C’s go on a long scoring run. Playoffs are when stars are born and when some of the bench players are called to make solid contributions and even surprising moments as someone previously mentioned Daniel Gibson. I’m just afraid our bench besides Chills will not have the opportunity to do so. Playoffs are when you have to employ different game plans and strategies to find your strengths and your opponent’s weaknesses. I’m just afraid our coach lacks the imagination to make any sort of adjustments out of his usual routine of substitutions and 1 or 2 plays. I hope I’m wrong. But in any case, unless we win this Boston series, FIRE WOODSON!!!!!!

By oldmike

April 17, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this

The worst thing about making the playoffs (among many) is that there might be a semblance of support to retain Woodson. He is an absolute disgrace as a coach. He needs to go. If we had been smart enough or lucky enough to have hired a Rivers or Scott when they were available I am POSITIVE the players on our roster would be hands down better. We should have at a minimum 48 wins and a starting unit that isn’t pulverized by excessive minutes.

By JD

April 17, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

This Hawks team, while close to respectability, is not up to a series win over the Celtics.

The young players have not learned to win over an 82 game season so how does anyone expect them to be ready for playoff intensity?

I hope the Hawks win and I will be there but reality tells me more than a win or two is unlikely.

By paul

April 17, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

They’ve improved a great deal, but I still think they’re gonna get pumped bigtime by Boston. 3 and out.

By poorhawk

April 17, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

RichBrave good to see you’re a Hawk fan too. Maybe richhawk? I don’t believe you will find the magic pill for Braves till BC is gone. Keep up the good reports. GO hawks!!!!

By Dr. Warren

April 17, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Let Dominique coach. With no experience, he’d still be better.

By Dr. Warren

April 17, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Let Dominique coach. With no experience, he’d still be better.

By kj

April 17, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

Yeah I know woodson sucks and yeah we shoulda got a big, but I think we will be alright. I figure we got about as good a chance as any to do it. Who knows, Old woody might just surprise us and go 8 maybe 9 deep into the roster against the celts. Call it the secret weapon. hahaha, man I almost believed it myself. Seriously folks, We had a good run this year and i’m sure that shortly after the series is over the owners will announce that the woodster has been terminated. Or, we could at least hope anyway.

By Mitch

April 17, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

The Hawks played decently until the last three games, to make the playoffs. That being said, it is highly unlikely that the Hawks are going to pull off a series win against the Celtics.

While Boston did win the last game that the teams played in Atlanta, I think that the home crowd’s energy may be enough to will the Hawks to one win in the series. My call: Celtics in Five.

Mitch

By Pete

April 17, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

GO HAWKS!!!

By Realist

April 17, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

I don’t want to hear “The games were meaningless.” Guess what? They meant even LESS to the Heat, and they still showed up and whipped the Hawks’ tails. The Hawks starters played 30 minutes last night, and I don’t care if the game meant anything to them or not; they should be able to beat a team that previously had 14 wins — with their EYES CLOSED! The fact that they didn’t or couldn’t says a lot about how bad they are going to get beat by the Celtics.

By ATL Rattler

April 17, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

I think you’re dead on doc! I can’t see no other reason, you’d keep JR & Salim off the floor in some of the games down the stretch with the big leads & the last 2 games that didn’t really matter. Yeah I know they got some play time, but they need to be mixed in better with a few of the starters that will be on the floor.

On a lighter note, Woody looks like he’s always rocking a box hair cut, or he has a naturally square head. I don’t think I’ve seen a bald square.

I’ll be at game 4! Let’s Go Hawks!!

By fudd21

April 17, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Anybody who makes comments about Boston 3 and out or who the Hawks will draft needs to be banned from the blog. IMHO!

By 4 Idiots Only

April 17, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

For the idiot who said its Boston 3 and out, and about the Hawks draft pick…two words…GET LOST ! Its a best of 7 series, therefore they need 4 wins, not 3 you idiot. And the Hawks have no 1st round draft pick this, year, that pick belongs to Phoenix. The point is, you don’t know shchits about basketball or the hawks. So you and “coach” Woodson, both are one and the same - You don’t know basketball.

By doc

April 17, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

hey ray ando was right, if we hadnt gotten the bibby trade done do you not think that this team wouldnt be sitting at 31 to 34 games won and watching as indy goes to the playoffs on some kind of a true roll? i covered my bet of 35 to 38 but i would have been low if not for the bibby trade as well. incidentally shame on indy for losing to charlotte at home since the charlotte team is one of the worst road teams the nba. if they had last nights game might have meant something and i am not sure if we would have pulled it off.

with a healthy o’neal actually the indy team is a better bet to pull off the first round upset than we are. taking it to 5 is my best bet for this bunch, if not i get to see a third game with boston so it will be fun to be there unexpectedly.

By MannyT

April 17, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

doc don’t think of it as turning it on and off. Think like a wire has a short in it. You keep playing with the switch and sometimes it works, but often it doesn’t. It usually stays that way until it totally falls apart or you get an electrician in to fix it.

I heard there is an available electrician named Rick Carlisle that might be able to do something with the existing wiring. He might be encouraged to bring an apprentice with local ties that has a great mentor in his current role—Tyrone Corbin.

I understand that the current electrician has some strong points, but has difficulty when you need to make adjustments with live game current. He seems to refuse to use substitute batteries when the main power sources need recharging. Consequently, there are often brownouts late in the game day.

This message supported by the IBEW-is it the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers or the Infamous Bloggers Exposing Weaknesses

I think they do tech work for the blog crimes unit ;-)

WAF

By Ron

April 17, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I understand as a reporter covering the team you have to pretend they have a chance, but come on. We all know the Hawks are going to lose 4 straight by double digits (if not 25-30 points) to Boston. Yeah it’s nice to make the playoffs after a long absence. Now can we fire Woodson, retool the bench, and look to next year?

By Vick Supporter

April 17, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

If Marvin doesn’t disappear on us and Salim gives us some scoring, we have a chance.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

“They meant even LESS to the Heat”

I strongly disagree with that… half the Heat’s roster is NBDL players with expiring contracts who want to show NBA GMs that they can play. There’s not much more motivation an NBA player can have than the possibility of a guaranteed contract.

Yesterday’s game showed a strong disconnect between Mike Woodson, who realizes he’s coaching for his job and wanted to win a meaningless game to make his record look better, and the Hawks’ players, who want to rest up for the playoffs. Woodson had the starters in the game to win the meaningless game, but the starters rightfully care more about staying healthy for the playoffs than winning yesterday’s game. Reason #139048230948 to fire Woodson.

By Astro Joe

April 17, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Even if the Hawks had won the last 2 games by 30, that would not sya anything about what willl happen 4 days later in Boston. This team has already proven that days off typically leads to a lackluster effort. They will be blown out Sunday, end of discussion. And with a long rest before game 2, the same is likely possible. I have my ticket for the Saturday game and I am hopeful of watching a team victory.

But the important thing is that these guys expereince playoff basketball. That they learn the importance of every possession. This is part of every team’s learning process. This is how a team goes from 38-42 wins to 50 wins. By learning what it takes to perform at the next level and applying that knowledge in the vast majority of games the following season.

By terrell barron

April 17, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

When he’s fired, I’ll drive him to the airport and pay for his flight, FREE OF CHARGE!

By Ryder

April 17, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Atlanta’s going to come at Boston with everything they have since they have nothing to lose. If Woodson thinks too much in this series Atlanta is toast!

Atlanta can’t waste time trying to play half-court basketball all the time, but instead force Boston to match their tempo.

I think the two areas where Atlanta has an advantage is at the PG position and at the 4. How is that possible? Since KG will be guarding Horford most likely on defense, J Smith has an opportunity to abuse whomever guards him. They can’t afford to have him out behind the arc, and he must attack at all cost to force one of the C’s forwards to come at him, getting them into potential foul trouble.

This can be done, but Atlanta must display the same hunger and hustle that Boston and their rabid fans are sure to display come Sunday Night.

Attack Boston’s defense at all costs, FULL SPEED AHEAD ATLANTA!

By richbrave

April 17, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Somewhere in the series the Celtics will coast. After they think its under control, they will ease off in preparation for the next series with either Wizards or Cavaliers.

So every game to the Celtics and decided by 10 or more.? Maybe, maybe not. I don’t think so. Hawks win at least one - 50/50. They’ve got some good young players and they’ll be hungry. But will they listen to Woodson? He!! SHOULD THEY LISTEN TO WOODSON?!!

I’ll be watching the games/the series. It is going to be on National T.V., right?

By smartguy

April 17, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

So I guess Woody is still our coach?? Hey Gearon and Levenson, its great how on the eve of our first playoff games in a long time, how most people are still talking about what a bad coach Mike Woodson is, and if we can overcome him.

As bad as I think Mike Woodson is, I think our players are good enough to overcome him, even against a team like Boston.

Take Sam I am’s marbles and shove them back down his throat. GO HAWKS!!!

By smartguy

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

I was going to make a comment about how the long breaks between the early games should help the Hawks, but then I realized Woody will probably use it as an excuse to play only six guys.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

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

Just great, now the whole world will see what a terrible coach Mike Woodson is 4 real. I pray the fellas can overcome his lack of coaching and give the little green men a good fight…

GO HAWKS!!!

By 5 to 7

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

Ya’ll should lay off of those people calling for 3 and out. Keep in mind a lot of folks who followed the Hawks great play-off run from the 80s through 90s remember the old 5-game 1st round. When your favorite team hasn’t been in the playoffs for 9 years…it is easy to forget the increase to 7 games. Go Hawks!

By The Realist

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

I’m amped about the playoffs. It’s been a long time, to say the least. Now that’s my positive input. On another note: PLEASE tell me Woodson (just look @ his career record & failure to develop young players) & Knight (just look @ how long it took to get a legit PG & the fact that we still don’t have an even close-to-legit center) will BOTH get pink slips. Then tell that we can call the Marvin Williams-as-a-starter experiment done. Please tell me what he brings to the starting lineup other than inconsistent offense & decent defense. I’m just saying either trade him or bring him off the bench & replace him with a decent center that’ll play some D.

By Eric

April 17, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

CALL ME CRAZY, BUT LET ME GIVE EVERYBODY SOME REASONS WHY THE HAWKS CAN WIN THE SERIES AGAINST BOSTON. FIRST THE HAWKS HAVE THREE STARS THAT HAVE YET TO PEAK, MAYBE THEY MAKE A STEP IN THIS SERIES(MARVIN WILLIAMS, JOSH SMITH, JOSH CHILLDRESS. SECOND MIKE BIBBY HAS BEEN DEADLY IN THE PLAYOFFS IN THE PAST, MAYBE HE FINDS THE MAGIC AGAIN. THIRD THE CELTICS INDIVIDUALLY HAVE STRUGGLED IN THE PLAYOFFS, DOC COULDN’T GET THE MAGIC OUT OF THE FIRST ROUND, GARNETT ONLY GOT OF THE FIRST ONCE. FINALLY BOSTON HASN’T GONE THROUGH ANY ADVERSITY THIS SEASON, THE HAWKS HAVE.

By The Flash

April 17, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

I think that it is great that the Hawks are in. You guys should kick back and enjoy it. What could be bad?

People still talk of Celtic tradition. What tradition? This is a team of imports, hired guns brought in from other towns, where they honed their skills, made their fortunes, and then said, Toodles.

The Hawks in the main are home grown; a throwback playing in a modern world in which you need a score card to know who you are rooting for from week to week, month to month, season to season.

So, for as long as it lasts, stop all the hatin, and glory in the reality that this team is in the freakin playoffs. The playoffs!

By Barry

April 17, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

I agree with Eric, the Hawks have potential stars on this team. And this may be the series/playoff that the nation and the NBA will see them. This is their time. Do not be surprise. This may be the time they turn into men in the NBA. In fact, I am sure their star qualities will bloom under the pressure of the playoof. In fact, I think they are going to get so into the game and the excitement, they are going to be playing and talking like a “kid in a candy store”. They are going to love it. And at that time, their opposition is going to automatically realize that that these men are “no joke” and it is going to be too late for them. Believe me, this is going to happen. They are going to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!” They are going to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!”

LET’s GO HAWKS!!! SHOCK THE WORLD!!!

SSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! This is a SECRET from a HAWK FAN!!!! TELL EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

“SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Ringold

By Barry

April 17, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

I agree with Eric, the Hawks have potential stars on this team. And this may be the series/playoff that the nation and the NBA will see them. This is their time. Do not be surprise. This may be the time they turn into men in the NBA. In fact, I am sure their star qualities will bloom under the pressure of the playoof. In fact, I think they are going to get so into the game and the excitement, they are going to be playing and talking like a “kid in a candy store”. They are going to love it. And at that time, their opposition is going to automatically realize that that these men are “no joke” and it is going to be too late for them. Believe me, this is going to happen. They are going to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!” They are going to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!”

LET’s GO HAWKS!!! SHOCK THE WORLD!!!

SSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! This is a SECRET from a HAWK FAN!!!! TELL EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

“SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

Ringold

By cp

April 17, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Great post doc, Manny T, and BA. Terrell I will go half on that ticket with you. Its great to have playoff basketball back in the city and for the young guys to get some playoff experience. It will also be nice for JJ to have some national exposure once again. That is about the only positives I can come up with. Darrin you said the same thing many of us were saying last night, the whole world will get to see just how terrible “the coach” is. I wouldnt be shocked if he went to a 7 man rotation. He might and the keyword is might, go with Salim at point making it a 8 man rotation but if Salim makes a few mistakes then its probably the end of his season because he wont see the floor again. The coach will then go with Chill at the point thus making him less effective. If Duck decides to show up and I really hope he does I can clearly see the coach pull him for Chill if Marvin makes a few shots. He has done this all season. Marvin comes out scores about 8 points then for some reason goes to the bench. Like someone said earlier, its the time to make adjustments and find that spark off the bench but with the coach we have I just dont have any faith in any of that happening. We would be better off letting Bibby act as the head coach during the playoffs and send “the coach” to the house.

By Marc

April 17, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

“How to do you practice for Garnett?”

Call me crazier, but I would add another big to the active roster and the guy I would chose would be Olowokandi who was pretty much sacked from the Celtics roster at Garnett’s request.

By Ryder

April 17, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Salim won’t make an appearance in this series unless Boston is blowing them out. I would pull a surprise and throw Mario West in the starting lineup just so he can harass Ray Allen in the beginning.

If Atlanta wants to seriously pull an upset they have to attack Boston with surprises, throw them off a bit. Mario’s defense would give the Celtics fits, even if it’s for a few minutes, then bring in Marvin Williams to lead the bench along with Childress.

The Celtics will expect Marvin to begin the game shooting from the outside. They are expecting JJ to shoot from the top of the key. Atlanta must keep Boston guessing if they plan on pulling an upset.

What people forget is last year Golden State beat Dallas mentally and forced them to adjust. It wasn’t a talent issue, and Atlanta must do the same thing.

That said, I would love nothing more than to watch the homegrown team continue to stay together and put in the role players needed to take them to a championship!

By Ron Mexico

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

Dream on people. The Hawks will lose 4 straight to Boston. They will be lucky to make it to game 5. The Hawks were 0-3 against Boston this year. The Hawks are lucky to even be in the play-offs.

By oldmike

April 17, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

SEKOURiddle me this. I just read an article that suggested the Wizards as the Eastern darkhorse contender. One of the reasons mentioned is their quick ball movement offense that winds up in lots of open looks. Wouldn’t that approach work for the Hawks? Can you explain who is calling the “dump it to Joe, stand around and watch, post up” offense this team has employed in the majority of the come from ahead losses? I think our only chance for even one win is to put the ball in Bibby’s hands and let him maike plays. Thoughts?

By Jester

April 17, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

No team 12 games under .500 should be in the playoffs. NO TEAM! This is just sad.

By doc

April 17, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

flash, now stop hatin on is poor slow southeners down here dude. we pays our money so we gets to speak and we enjoy all of it. glad to see you still care about us, nothing but love buddy.

aj admire your outlook but it is about playing in the now. what a better way to get to 50 wins by learning to win the gimmies. we choke on the three footers dude. btw we havent seen 38 wins yet, right? we are not even inclusive to that club yet of 38 - 42 wins.

manny t waaay too funny, resembles the three goats under the bridge.

jester where did you learn to subtract?

By Sekou K. Smith

April 17, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Yes oldmike, that approach would work for any undersized team with a cadre of good shooters. The Hawks have one part of that down. The other … not so much.

By The Realist

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

SEKOU, I know discussing possible moves for next year is a bit off the intended subject but…what is your take on Marvin Williams? He just doesn’t seem to bring any consistency to the table on either end of the floor. I just can’t help but imagine a starting lineup of J. Smith & Horford @ forward & a legit center to patrol the paint…

By SalimFan

April 17, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Salim/J-Rich are my dark horses for the series. Every team needs a Gibson.

By doc

April 17, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

yes sekou, our best shooters are mired on the bench with the woody made dog house attached choker collar on. salim and richardson have both forgotten how it feels to stroke it on game day as they havent had the time on the court to get anyone elses confidence much less their own.

next problem will be to solve the celts long range shooters aplenty to be followed by the onslaught of the man in the middle MR. K G. toss in a bench that can bring its own game in to spell the starters brief minutes or just plain replace them if they are off …. well, that is what our babes are up against.

forget the comparison to the warriors as the celts dont come close to appearing like the mavs did going up against a fast a furious team like the warriors. the mavs were still smarting from how the refs took it away from them the year before and very fragile emotionally as a team knowing the pressure of a narrow window of opportunity even with the best record. dream on to those who see it or feel it or hear it any other way. PLUS, and here is the one that irks so many, the warriors EARNED their trip with a flourish of wins down the stretch. besides that, because of their finish, folks were saying the mavs had better watch out for that team.

dont know about you but i havent heard those accolades about our hawks anywhere except from the occasional delusional blogger here. not hate, just truth. now, if you want to go to disneyland and talk something other than basketball then change the agenda here. if we do that then maybe we can get the person that asks the foolish questions to take over for sekou. i imagine we can really get into some fluff that way instead of grown men talking about a grown up man’s game. any girls out there that wants to argue … segue into dr. mary b … did anyone say dr. scholl’s?

By ray

April 17, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Today In The News

An article stating that Woodson is going bald for the playoffs is not quite what people think it is. In fact, our sources say that Woody’s reason for doing so is completely different. After catching up on his blog reading, he discovered the numerous criticisms aimed at his WAF stance, as well as his dumbfounded look (with or without the mouth open). Some of our agents managed to bug his office (again). One of our recordings was of him talking to himself…while alone in the office. It was then that he had an epiphany….”I’ll shave my head bald!” he thought. “Then the glare of the overhead lights reflecting off of my dome will distract people from the WAF and the scowls/dumfounded looks!” Once again, Blog Crimes Units have uncovered the truth…

You know, Billy going bald would’ve been an even better story. But Billy Knight, sometimes called the Sultan of Soul Glo, and also known as the Afro Ayatollah, just wasn’t having it. Oh well, one can only dream.

This is not how 8th seeds prepare for the playoffs. Getting beat down by the worst team in the NBA with both of it’s best/most talented players on the bench the whole game does very little to promote the idea of a first round upset. I know we’ve already made the playoffs, but a winning mentality is a winning mentality. You don’t build such a mentality by half-stepping your last two games (especially if you’ve won less than 40 anyway).

Mike Woodson never ceases to amaze. Acie Law gets in the game for what…2 or 3 minutes? Why do I feel like that was a parting shot or something? I mean, come on man. We know Boston’s better than us, but you’re going to need a guy like Law. 3 minutes?? Same for Solo and Jeremy Richardson. And West got NOTHING. How about while we’re getting beat by freakin’ Chris Quinn and Daquean Cook, you put in Mario West to seriously slow their roll?! I really don’t want to see us get swept by the Celtics (which could happen), but the silver lining on that little rain cloud would be that Woody is possibly the coach for only 4 more games. I know, I know. Sounds like I’ve got an agenda. Well I would if I had any clout or influence with the organization. But I’m a fan, which means I have no say in anything at all. Just give me your money and be happy with whatever I see fit to throw on the floor! Yep…ASG…gotta love it.

And in other news….hell just froze over for the third time. The devil has got to be p**. So what happened this time? HB Ando was wrong. Yep. Wrong. What was his win prediction? 31-34 wins? 36 wins? Come on people, help me out here. All I know is that it was less than 37 wins, right? RIGHT?? If that doesn’t get him stirred up, nothing will….

And that’s all…for now…

By HHBO

April 17, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Gents, Long time reader, seldom poster, but long time Hawks fan. The conspiracy theorist in me always finds it funny to look back and see the similarities in what everyone is saying now and what has always been the case for the Hawks team. Does anyone remember Mark Schultz’s articles 10 years ago about the Hawks stagnant offense? Let Mookie steal the ball, give it to Smitty, and everyone stand around and watch him back down his defender…. Does anyone remember Furman Bisher’s articles from 15-20 years ago about the same thing? Everyone stand around and watch ‘Nique and K Willis fight each other for the left block, post up and fire away…. Same thing now, give the ball to JJ, stand around and watch him go one-on-one. I think something fishy’s going on! Just a thought! Anyway, I’m jumping for joy that the playoffs are back in the ATL and I WILL be at Saturday’s game… ol’ skool Tree Rollins Jersey and all. Regardless of the outcome of the series, I’m just glad I don’t ever have to see Dikembe post up and shoot those gawd-awful hook shots! Anybody remember how painful it was to see him back somebody down around the basket? Daaaayuuum! See you guys there!

By oldmike

April 17, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

thanks for the post SEKOU. What was I thinking anyway. Woodson has yet to employ any in game adjustments other than having his chiropractor unfold his arms so he can sit on the bench and draw up one of his patented “come out of a timeout in a crucial situation and do nothing” plays.

By ray

April 17, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Doc,

Here I was getting a good ol’ cheap stick-poking shot/opportunity at our mutual friend and you go and break my stick, you spoil sport! Where in the blog rules does it stated that a win prediction is void after any and all trades that may or may not improve the team? Heh. To be honest, prior to the Bibby trade (and during our post-December slide) I had us figured to win maybe what we did last year.

As for the playoffs

This is what I expect to see happen:

1)Kevin Garnett is sick to death of first round exits (or not making the playoffs at all). He has publicly said more than once that their regular season wins mean nothing, and were merely a means to enter the playoffs. Don’t look for the Celtics to coast or be lacking in motivation. He might say this is Pierce’s team…but anybody with NBA knowledge of the last decade knows this: The Big Ticket is just that…The Big Ticket…to the Big Dance.

2)The Celtics will look to get frustrate Al Horford and Josh Smith. They will look to get them into early foul trouble. Why? Because both guys will fight you all day and night on the boards (and they’re both effective in their own ways). Horford gives any frontline (notice I said the entire frontline, not just the center) a tough time. Josh adds to it with his desire and supreme athleticism. If either gets into foul trouble, then it’s curtains for us. Why? The bench. Do I need to explain that further?

3)Double teams coming against Joe will be smarter and quicker…more so than anything he’s faced all season. And Pierce will guard him a lot. They’re the exact same size, so no real advantages there.

4)Bibby will have to contend with Rajon Rondo, who is quicker, younger, and relentless. Who will get the better of whom?

5)Defense. JJ will split time guarding Pierce and Ray Allen. He’s going to be tired as hell, which is exactly what the Celtics are counting on…it will slow him on offense. Why will he guard both? Think about this: who’s guarding Pierce if JJ isn’t? That’s right…Marvin Williams. Pierce scores 30+. Game over. As for KG, refer back to the Horford/Smoove foul issues. KG can’t be stopped when those guys aren’t on the floor. He can’t be stopped anyway, but either of those guys will be relentless and give him problems if they’re not in foul trouble (as he found out a few games ago against Horoford).

6)The bench. Do we really need to go here? The Celtics big men are all superior to our bench big men. Zaza isn’t the same guy we signed a few years ago, and Solomon has probably played 48 minutes in his entire NBA career (okay, so I exaggerate, but you get the point…wait a minute…maybe I’m not exaggerating…). Law has been tied to the doghouse. Same goes for Salim. Jeremy Richardson has been played like a guy who’s 10-day contract has expired. In other words: not at all, just about. Childress has not played well against the bigger, hustling Celtics. It doesn’t look good, I don’t care what kind of rose-colored glasses you have.

7) In the playoffs, a good solid coach is very important. Yes, the world-beating superstar (or incredibly cohesive team of stars and supporting cast) are important. But a good coach knows how to make good decisions and adjustments in the most intense moments. A GOOD COACH. They have one. We don’t. End of story.

Sorry if this sounds woefully pessimistic. I live and die with each play just like anybody else does. But seeing past my nose is both a blessing and a curse, if you know what I mean…

By MannyT

April 17, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

The good news

Look back at the blogs in August. We really didn’t have much to talk about. Because there are no draft picks, we might be in August form by late May. Enjoy the next few weeks. At least the Hawks will be in games which is more than 14 other NBA teams can say. They have already hung out their gone fishin’ signs.

I doubt most of you are headed over the the Atlanta Dream blog when this season ends. I may try it out for their first season.

jester That kind of math explains why there are no additional players on the Hawks bench. Someone on the ASG payroll swears we have a full roster ;-)

HHBO I hope enough of these fans show up to give the Hawks a real home court advantage. The more the place rocks, the better the chance we win. You can go pick out a playoff seat on Saturday and get cheap eats while there.

I’m thinking I’ll ride a personal wave of optimism at least through Sunday night. Because I am certain that the series will be tied at least until 8 PM!

Let’s Go Hawks!

By glw

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

I dont think the bench issue is as big a deal in the playoffs. The games are spread out and there are no back to back. you have 2 days off before Game 2 and Game 3 each. A dependable 7 man rotation is ok, but Woodson needs to find a way to steal a few minutes here or there with Law/Stoudamire. I remember the Bulls would rest Jordan like the last minute or so of each quarter. That strategy has to be implemented for Joe Johnson. Bibby probably only needs to play about 35 a game. There are many keys but they arent out of the realm of possiblity:

1) First the obvious, JJ and Bibby need to be on. The last few games, it seems that Bibby was forcing shots trying to find his groove. Hopefully he can get back on track.

2) Eliminate turnovers. Thats a message to Josh Smith, I know you like to handle the ball, but let the guards do that.

3) Marvin and J Chill need to be aggressive and become more physical. we need at least 25 ppg out of them.

4) Woodson must find a way to steal minutes from certain guys. Salim needs to get some minutes and get us a few points. He needs to incorporate minutes in for Law and get Bibby some rest. Chills needs to work the baseline, not run the point.

I hope that all those things happen and they work, I like to dream and hope for the best, but dont see the Hawks winning more than a game. I figure they get one of the games here in Atlanta and then go out in game 5 in Boston. But I will still be there rooting the guys on.

By honest_abe

April 17, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

hhbo: the word is “tried” to back someone down. that skinny bean pole had a hard enough time getting position much less actually back someone down. lol.

ray & doc: amazing. to think some of us including myself actually thought that maybe woody might play the bench with the playoffs already a foregone conclusion. like they say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. i’m trying not to get too excited so i don’t have too much of a hangover after the sweep.

By honest_abe

April 17, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

oh ya and whatever happened to michael m?? after arguing for the hawks to pick conley with that 3rd pick he seemed to have vanished into thin air. heh

By ray

April 17, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Damn. What did happen to that guy…

Not to sound too much like a spoil sport…but I believe it’s “the more people show up to the Hawks’ playoff games, the greater the profit for the ASG.”

yes, I’m p** because I can’t go. So what….

If nothing else, such fan support will lift the spirits of the players. They could use the boost.

By Astro Joe

April 17, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

Abe stopped by. Flash came through. It’s like a family reunion up in the piece. Even Clyde had a kind word the other day. And did Dark Ryder return from the other side?

Wow, winning does cure all ills.

Welcome back, cousins.

By MannyT

April 17, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Inhale chemicals from cleaning cabinet…

We have at least 72 more hours of hope…probably more if we don’t get blown out.

Use your optimism well.

Hey I’m looking forward to BWAF BALD Woody-Arms Folded for the playoffs. He was smart enough to take the most temporary of his options…no need for a 50ish guy to get his FIRST tattoo or earring.

All sorts of things happen this time of year. Lot’s of great playoff games in the west. Can a lower seed derail the Detriot-Boston series? Let’s go Wiz

All the pressure is on the Celtics. While they have tradition, NONE of those primary guys has a ring. They had to bring in a guy that smacked their starting PG to get ring cred. And Sam’s ring is almost old enough to drive.

Where’s Queen & David Bowie when I need them…can you say Under Pressure!

Let us steal a game up there and who knows.

The NBA Playoffs…where new cred happens!

Chemicals wearing off…

Astro I’d say playoffs are like a homecoming…our team might not win, but we come back together for a bit.

WAF soon to BWAF

By ScoobySnacks

April 17, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Attention Everyone

Let’s cut the whinning and enjoy the good vibes as best we can before this butt whippin’ starts.

Making the playoffs means we got some kind of talent. Let’s look forward to building on that.

Go Hawks

By HHBO

April 17, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

I always hoped the Hawks could maximize their potential and simply dominate all those in their path. You know most of the major pieces are there. Even the “specialists” (3pt/defenders) are there on the bench, when/if they will ever be used properly. Still missing a couple of major ingredients to really do some damage this time of year, but as soooooooo many have already said, with proper management and a little creativity with the line ups by the coaching staff, this team could possibly steal TWO games from Boston!! Can’t remember who said it, but Mario West in the starting line-up to defend Ray Allen and Marvin coming off the bench as a 6th or 7th man is one of the best ideas I’ve heard!! Will BWAF read this? Will we see anything closely resembling a bench getting into the game (unless thrown in by a rabid fan)? He!! no! But we can dream that the new GM will add the couple of needed pieces somehow next season and the new coach will be able to manage a game like a PROFESSIONAL coach should and then, gents, we can all relax a bit and watch the Hawks take off!

Somehow Billy and Woody’s team reminds me of the ‘91 All-Star game. Stumbling down the court just like ‘Nique after his ‘one-on-nobody within 6 miles of him’ fast break, all alone, we’ve seen it a thousand times, thunderous wind-mill jam… CLAAAAAANG! Ball stuck right on the front of the rim. A true jaw dropper that shocked the basketball world that day coming from one of the three or four greatest dunkers of all time.

And that’s what this team is…

Filled with talent, certainly solid effort, but just not quite enough to make it over the top!

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 17, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Pretty much agree with Ray on everything. Like I’ve been saying for a while now the Celtics are a nightmare matchup for the Hawks, from the coach on down to the 12th man. But if the Hawks come out running and play with some fire they can steal a home game. Hopefully it will be Game 3, the one I just shelled out 20 hard-earned bucks to go to.

By jts

April 17, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

I have tried to stay out of the Atlanta Hawks business, however, I just had to finally post to this blog. I have been following the Hawks all year from Texas. I agree that Woody has got to go if the Hawks are ever going to be a legit team. He seems to have NO plan. He has NO idea of how to develop players or to design a game plan around the talents of his players. Also, he can’t afford to put his good players in his doghouse. I am like many of the other bloggers in that I have mixed emotions about making the playoffs. I am scared to death that this may give Woodson another chance to ruin this team next year. Keep your ears & eyes open. Avery Johnson may be available next year if the Mavericks bum again.

By Fritzenheimer

April 17, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

All season we have been calling for Woody’s head and all we get is his hair? Can he cut from the neck up? That would be a huge improvement for us.

By honest_abe

April 17, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

thanks aj. been in and out lately. been so long since the hawks have played any games of significance it sure does feel weird.

for all those who think the hawks are going to come up with a new plan to slow boston down, forget about it. what have you seen from woody that makes you think he can be creative or have the ability to construct some sort of game plan, or go away from his routine and be able to adjust?

By jts

April 17, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

Oh, hell, I’ve got a lot of pent up frustration. I get mad every time I watch Woody butcher this team. This team has just too much talent to not win at least 50 games. The Hawks need a coach that can teach teamwork and ball movement. Also, with the athleticism of this team, they should be averaging about 100 points per game.
Woody is at best clueless. He seems determined to get B. Knight fired right along with himself. It’s a pure d shame that Knight has gotten the talent that he’s brought to Atlanta, yet Woody refuses to use the players or has no clue as to how to develop talent. I’ve already had to watch Tyron Lue “improve” in Dallas, as the Mavs coach can coach to a players abilities, not just roll the ball out in practice and tell the players to have at it. Go Hawks, and Woody, just GO!!

By Astro Joe

April 17, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

MannyT, homecoming, perfect word. I said that some folk would be mad when the Hawks enter the playoffs.

Hey Doc, I’m still waiting for the Thrashers to hire a head coach. It’s been 76 games and about 2 weeks and still nothing. No need to even think about Woody going away until the Thrashers show that the owners can do something. Of course, I’m putting my money on a Thrashers assistant coach to get the gig. You know, someone very affordable and gullible.

By holdingAJCaccountable

April 17, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Celtics in three. Yes, I know it’s a seven game series, but after halftime of Game 3, the FCC, citing “decency guidelines” will refuse to let any further Hawks-Celtics games be broadcast.

At the end of Game 3 David Stern, sensing a disaster on his hands, will simply order the Hawks to reset the scoreboard to the score of last weekend’s game against the Celtics an add 51 seconds and offically call it a “replay of Game 1”.

Billy Knight will then be cloned by the ownership group (one Knight will defend not drafting Chris Paul, while one Knight will defend not drafting Deron Williams) but tellingly, Knight will refuse to shake hands with himself.

By Harry Hawk

April 17, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

Sekou: Is there any vindication for both you and the franchise after all the heat you’ve taken regarding the past three years and the tumultuous nature of this rebuilding process since the ownership dispute began?

Billy Knight: You don’t find solace in something like that. Even if you want to say, ‘I told you so,’ you don’t say, ‘I told you so.’ Even if that’s what you’d like to say. You just don’t get into that. You still have to go on about your business. We’re certainly happy to make the playoffs. It’s a great accomplishment for this team. And these players deserve it after all that’s gone on.

(The only people who would be justified in saying “I told you so” after a 37-45 season are the ones who say, “They fired the GM and coach, dude. I told you so.”)

By BATMAN

April 17, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

CAN’T BEAT THE HEAT???

By doc

April 17, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

aj the thrashers assistant already turned the job down during this season. they offered it up and he said no, maybe they can get him to change his mind but they couldnt get him to budge earlier.

By richbrave

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

NJ:

Good luck with you $20.00 gamble. Hope you hit the lottery.

HHBO:

Have you ever heard of HB ANDO?

By HHBO

April 17, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

Hey Rich.

I thought Ando got ran off of here some months back. I also remember somebody accusing you at one point of being him trying to slide back on the blog, or maybe that was you accusing someone else. I can’t remember. If you’re insinuating the same, I can assure you I’m just a daily reader here that never bothered joining in on the regular Billy and Woody hating until now. Forget the playoffs, it’s been a loooong time since the Hawks were broadcast nationally, period. I’ve got family on the west coast, bro. First time ever they might catch a glimpse of me acting the fool at the game on Saturday and I can’t contain the excitement! Playoffs are back and as long as the ASG gets their heads out of you-know-where this summer and do what’s right, we just may be a regular for a long time coming.

I thought about this for quite a while, and I don’t remember anyone ever mentioning this here, but hear me out. SI, ESPN, the Boston Herald, et al have been saying all season that Doc Rivers finally has a team in Beantown. If they don’t win the championship, the idea is Doc is to blame and he’s out of a job. I don’t know about you, but Doc Rivers is known for coaching up a bunch of scrubs (Coach of the year in Orlando, anyone?). I would be more than happy to bring him back home again to coach up ours. Seems to me the timing is almost uncanny. What do you think?

As far as a GM is concerned and with the current trend of hiring hall-of-fame former players, we’ve already got one of those on salary now! Save some money ASG, dump Billy’s salary and trade it for a new placard on ‘Nique’s office door.

Who better to bring the Hawks back to the glory days of the ’80s than the players themselves. Doc Rivers on the floor and ‘Nique upstairs. At least they’ve got respect throughout the league…

By ray

April 18, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Post of the year, courtesy of Harry Hawk:

Sekou: Is there any vindication for both you and the franchise after all the heat you’ve taken regarding the past three years and the tumultuous nature of this rebuilding process since the ownership dispute began?

Billy Knight: You don’t find solace in something like that. Even if you want to say, ‘I told you so,’ you don’t say, ‘I told you so.’ Even if that’s what you’d like to say. You just don’t get into that. You still have to go on about your business. We’re certainly happy to make the playoffs. It’s a great accomplishment for this team. And these players deserve it after all that’s gone on.

(The only people who would be justified in saying “I told you so” after a 37-45 season are the ones who say, “They fired the GM and coach, dude. I told you so.”)

By HB Ando (does not rhyme with bitter)

April 18, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

HHBO: what nonsensical perspective led you to believe that “Ando got ran off here some months back”? Exactly how would I have been “run off”? Was I shamed away? Was I forcefully removed from the blog?

I’m here when I choose to be. And, based on the collective references to both my name, as well as my clearly unforgettable, iconic status, it’s seemingly simplistic, and, honestly, disrespectful, to suggest that I’ve been rendered irrelevant, based on my choice(s) to take a week, or two, away from the daily meanderings of the largely clueless, and unwashed, masses, which have proliferated Sekou’s blog.

It, in between the chuckles that underscore how oddly clueless your statement was/is, leaves me curious as to how you, who are historically nameless, here, would reach, beyond your grasp of legitimacy, to assume you are worthy of even referring to me.

I guess that a relevantly accurate analogy would be that you are, at best, Damon Jones. And you’re baseless mischaracterization of my community standing, is no different than Damon taking Lebron to task.

I remain, at my leisurely discretion, the Alpha of this blog. Since I do not recognize your handle, and cannot find a reference point for any historic credibility that you might other wise have (and I make that point based on what little, inconsequential, offerings you’ve posted), I am hard pressed to do anything but dismiss you, outright.

I have not been run off. I just choose to participate at my leisure. If you would like to tangle with me, feel free to underscore a position, and expect to have your minimalist perspective dissected and discounted, in rapid, and largely irrefutable, fashion.

Silly, silly child.

By BA

April 18, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

Ray can’t go? The AJC should chip in and help my boy out! You can’t tell me SOMEBODY hasn’t bought something they saw on AJC.com on their way to read “Daily News”!

By BA

April 18, 2008 2:28 AM | Link to this

LeBron? ALPHA?! Ando, either you’re crazy, or you border on comic genius! But please, after all this time, you come out for a noname? The starters on the blog have been calling for you, even the Solomon Jones types like me have called for you, THE HAWKS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS! Surely even the consumate pessimist such as yourself takes a LITTLE joy from this!

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 18, 2008 6:03 AM | Link to this

I must say, for an HB Ando post, that was pretty short and to the point.

By doc

April 18, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this

ba as a friend i suspect the latter. the real reason is he is enjoying the moment like a snake sunning himself behind a rock. anyway what is he left do but agree with me when i have been proven right on one of the cardinal issues? it is also one he will still try to spin his way knowing ALL will chuckle at his attempt. that is very offensive to the main man or self-reposed alpha. so what is he left to do but wait and pick up the pieces of his efforts as the hawks bow out and we begin to analyze one more time where we have been and where we are going with his acute and acerbic wit. good morning all or good afternoon to you HB ANDRO. heh heh

By Don

April 18, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I would like to buy what ever it is you are smoking. The Hawks have a LOSING record. A horrid record and you are treating them and their management like they are one of the best teams in the league and have turned it around. If they were in the not in the WEAK conference they were in they would be where they truly belong. Buried at the bottom of the division. Until they fire the guy you seem to be in love with, Billy Knight and his sidekick Woody, they will NEVER be anything but second rate. I know BK and Woody thank God each night in their prayers that they work for a management group that has not clue and are covered by a weak beat writer.

By paul revere

April 18, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

Let me get this straight, the hawks are supposed to beat boston? you guys could not beat milwaukee, struggled with the wizards, (who beat boston 3times this year), you could not beat portland, miami, indy but now you have the parts to beat boston?

I see why you all are last in education and I see why you have the highest foreclosure rate and I see why you lost the Civil War. YOU GUYS ARE IDIOTS, if you think the Hawks will beat Boston over a 7 game series!!!

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this

HB ANDO:

2:12 a.m. I knew I’d draw you out eventually. My, my you and HHBO certainly do have a different STYLE. Heh,heh. Now that’s the Ando I know and love to read. Welcome back my friend. Give us a take on the Hawks-Celtics match-up.

Looks like I finally get to see the team in action

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

HEY paul revere:

I will remind you that many of the finest New England families of yore had close relatives in the south and in Atlanta. Be careful how you class your cousins clueless lest ye be judged as well. Ever hear of a guy named “Stonewall” Jackson. His in-laws were from your hometown.

By Rev. M.M

April 18, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this

The Hawks are going to beat Boston! The Hawks are going to beat Boston!! The Hawks are going to beat Boston!!! Y’all watch and see!! Go Hawks!!!

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

HAWKS gotta’ learn the “feel” for playoff games. They’re gonna’ get smacked in the kisser and then they’ll come around. Once they REALLY know what’s up, its over. But they’re learnin’ and that’s growin’. Like Arnold they’ll be back. Meanwhile Hawks fans enjoy the show and the ride in the playoffs!!! YES-S-S!!!

Commenting is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. M-F Post a comment

By Malone

April 18, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

What about Mike Dunleavy?

If the Clips dump him, he’d be the perfect coach for this roster.

By HHBO

April 18, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Bitter?? You’re right, it doesn’t rhyme. What does is a Half Broke bANJO!

My point was I DO remember you. I have been around for a while. Matter of fact, why don’t you look it up…. Last time I posted was waaay back. When this blog was meaningless, but still gave us all fits. Remember when IT screwed up and reversed the order of the posts? The most recent on top, so you had to scroll all the way to the bottom to read anything? I do remember you hiding behind your rock for months on end and I do remember Rich, Clyde, BA, Doc, etc… running you right back out to the desert! It makes me laugh that you don’t have the long term memory to even accept what has happened on here since the beginning. What happened to Clyde’s T-Shirts, by the way? What sidde of Philips is he going to set up shop so we can all finally buy one?

Look at BA’s post above and you’ll see why I don’t post often. This should be about rooting our Hawks on, but your pessimism and discontent towards everyone here quickly turns this into a shouting match. I appologize to everyone here for even continuing this mess and this will be my last post until you get laid, drink a beer, get a grip, whatever….

I’ll tell you this BANJO, come find me at the game.

If you want to spit face to face and go round for round,

I guarantee I’ll play you just like your name sounds!

In front of 19,000+ no less! See you there….

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

HHBO:

Wow.!! Tell us how you REALLY feel. I think I need a doctor. Hey, doc where you at?

By doc

April 18, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

hhbo, i think you just did ando’s heart real well as you fell for his infamous in your face trap and REACTED just exactly the way he expected you too? richie, guess you know the pattern well by now having fallen for it hook, line and sinker before. listen hhbo you were the big bass ando caught today just after dawn by just putting the line out there with a little bait, not even his best bait. sorry to tell you but it is true. now laugh it off get the hook out of your mouth and be good so we can all get along. heh heh

richie, us ole folks know that forgiveness is the best antidote right? ;-))

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Even though I’m going to stay in a great mood for the next 2+ days, it looks like some folks are fixed for a blog fight, so all I can do is…DING

The DING even extends to ex-Hawks who may have a little CP3 streak in the attitude, but not his game.

If you’re interested, here’s the Celtics blog

WAF until there is a picture to confirm BWAF

By HHBO

April 18, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Gents, I lied. I am going to post again. Appreciate the diagnosis Doc. I keep going back to my reply to Rich earlier. That I am simply NOT him. I’m actually excited for the Hawks and the city of Atlanta, regardless of the outcome. Over the years, I’ve always enjoyed reading all of the optimism, valid points, and respected opinions of everyone here. He does not even hold any merit with me in this regard and if I have to be the Omega to the Alpha dog on this blog because that’s the only way he can get his rocks off, so be it. I say welcome back Banjo. As BA and Rich both pointed out, no one has heard from you in a while.

I just beg you, accept that this is an exciting time for basketball in Atlanta and it is an awesome experience for the young players on this team. Regardless of what happens later this summer and beyond.

Accept that if you are the self-imposed Alpha, your name never did come up in Sekou’s “post of the year awards” a few months back and you were certainly never mentioned in the “lifetime achievement” post. You simply seem to not be around enough for only a select few to even remember your name. Truth hurts.

By jhan

April 18, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

Who won the Sekous Bloggers fantasy basketball league this year? I haven’t heard Samuel touting his expertise recently. Oh that’s right, I won the league this year!

Let’s be realistic, if the Hawks win ONE game against Boston I’ll be surprised. They don’t have the experience or coach to make a serious run. This playoff is all about getting experience for our core players (JJ, JS, JC, AH). Everyone else is trade bait in the offseason. Most likely Marvin & Bibby will be gone sometime in the offseason or during the season next year.

I fully expect to see a different coach on the sideline next year. My gut is telling me that Billy Knight is going to keep his job. I hope my gut is wrong by the way.

GO Hawks!!

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

doc:

Your house calls are a true blessing for us all.

By Astro Joe

April 18, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

jhan, congrats, I was wondering who took home the fantasy trophy. I’m looking forward to next year, I now see how that stuff can be very addictive. And I agree with your position regarding the Hawks chances and the benefit of the youngsters gaining experience.

By doc

April 18, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

hhbo the funny thing it he already awarded the lifetime ….. to himself. yes it is all fun and it is in out best interests to borrow something from our lady doc and MANIFEST a big win for our guys by our collective conscience. okay, too much for folks to wrap their arms around so i will say GO HAWKS! for my friend mike and HOPE we win and leave it at that.

congrats jhan on your victory, i must have rubbed off on you. also retire while you are ahead.

By Mike R

April 18, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Oh man, what a hoot this is, a team that is not even mediocre, e.g., 7 0r 8 games under .500 and makes the playoffs because of the NBA’s idiotic system crowing as if they have won the World Championship. This while the idiot who passed on Chris Paul, who will either win MVP or be runner-up talks about redemption. Scuse me while I go puke. Oh wait, I can’t, I am laughing too hard. Unbelievable.

By mykhalc

April 18, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

ALPHA ANDO, you killin’ me man!!! HILARIOUS!!! only you bro, only you!!!LOL

By Astro Joe

April 18, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Mike R, what’s even funnier is that this guy who invented the PG position, Chris Paul, is making his first playoff appearance at the same time as Marvin. And you know what is even more hilarious? That Paul and Marvin will both experience first round playoff exits.

Meanwhile, Deron Williams is going to his 2nd playoff and will surely go deeper this year than Paul (or Marvin). Gosh, I am sick of all of the love in this city for Mr. Paul.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this

HHBO:

Sorry dude. Just testing Ando to see if he was scanning the blog. And he was!!

HB:

Come out guy. Let’s play. All is forgiven. Do you think that the Hawks will win at least one game from the Celtics.? I’m saying game #4.

By Astro Joe

April 18, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Flash, any truth to the rumor that your boy Belkin is inviting BK over for a Sunday afternoon peace meal before the game? Some fish and chips (sprinkled with rat poisoning)? I wonder if he will show up at the arena wearing Hawks colors or if he’ll go with the fashionable green golf shirt?

By Mike R

April 18, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Good point Astro Joe, Deron is as solid as they get. Both of them are great PG’s and the GM would have made the right choice selecting either in the draft when he had the opportunity.

By mykhalc

April 18, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

JOE, i’m with ya on CP3. cat CAN ball tho!!!

WOODSON’s logic is almost as funny as ANDO’s last post. he thinks because he GUIDED this team to the playoffs with a 37-45 record that he deserves a new contract. now i luv my HAWKS but the lame EAST is the only reason we’re in!!! i really hope that ONLY conferences winners get a lock next season with the rest decided by whoever has the better record REGARDLESS of division!!!

By Astro Joe

April 18, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

John Hollinger (ESPN NBA guru) has the following take on the Celtics (in case someone thinks the Hawks should do better).

1. How good is Boston, really?

A lot better than you might think. Most observers look at the East and see the Celtics as a really good team who may or may not get past Detroit in the conference finals.

Wake up, folks — this is one of the best teams of all time, and you might be surprised how easily they roll through the playoffs. I realize this is raining on the parade a bit since everybody is so jacked up about the competition in store this postseason, but I have to warn you there’s a chance the Celtics are just going to flat-out destroy everybody.

Boston went 66-16, one of the best marks in league history, but even that mark sells the Celtics short. At 10.3 points per game, they had the scoring margin of a 70-win team. That scoring margin is better than all but three teams since the ABA-NBA merger, and those teams all had Michael Jordan. By contrast, last season the Spurs had a scoring margin of 7.8 ppg, and that was easily the best mark in the league.

Here’s the real crazy part: their numbers were this good even though they coasted the final month and a half! Kevin Garnett didn’t play 40 minutes in a game after March 5; he averaged 31.9 minutes in March and 25.4 in April. For Paul Pierce, it was 32.6 and 27.4; for Ray Allen, it was 31.2 and 29.0. Plus, each of them skipped two April games just to freshen up.

They have the three stars, yes, but they also play suffocating defense — the Celts had one of best defensive seasons of all time, in fact (we’ll get into that more as we get deeper into the playoffs). Meanwhile, a bench that was supposed to be a liability has instead kicked some serious butt, and the late-season addition of Sam Cassell added a crunch-time scorer to the mix.

The Western Conference is where all of the excitement and most of the quality resides, but I’d be very surprised if the West champs can beat Boston in the Finals … and even more surprised if somebody besides Boston was their opponent.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 18, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

There is now a picture to confirm BWAF.

By Harry Hawk

April 18, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Sekou: Do you envision any way in which you and [Hawks general manager] Billy Knight both return in the same capacity next season and lead this franchise and team, respectively?

Mike Woodson: That’s hard to say. It’s hard to say. I don’t know. But I will say this, as soon as we win the title this year, we’re going to sit down and discuss it. I promise you that.

(As soon as we win the title this year, my head will explode like a pinata that has met its maker. However, there will not be sweets or treats laying on the floor at Philips Arena. No, not sweets, but eternal brotherhood, peace, and understanding will emanate from my wonderfully-shattered visage.)

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

April 18, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

as soon as we win the title this year… Dont know if it’s quite the (Give up the) Big Play Ray Buchanan type prognostication, but still- bald… I mean bold. Ha.

Does raise an interesting question though. Since it is generally agreed by most that we dont have the roster to beat the Celtics, I’m feel the urge to ask however what if we did win? If by some divine providence we won the series with the Celtics, it would have to be in part to Woody’s coaching. That said would it be worth it to keep him around since presumably his coaching enabled us to beat ‘one of the best teams of all-time’?

Another question is does our collective enmity for Woody have us hoping the Hawks go 4 and out just to have him ousted? Cut off our nose to spite our face? I wonder if we would still question Woody’s worth, even if we did…

RISE UP

By mykhalc

April 18, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

4 to 7 games with ANY result will not change my mind on WOODSON…PERIOD!!!!

By Matt

April 18, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Man, every time I see an article that mentioned Collier, I remember him. Collier was a truly stand-up guy and an underrated player. I know it sounds silly to think that a backup center could be the difference between us making the playoffs and not, but Collier was a scrappy legit 7-footer would have made Zaza work for his starting job. I honestly think that if he’d stuck around and pushed Zaza, we’d have made the playoffs last year - and we’d have been able to play Horford at his natural position this year.

More important than that, though, is that Collier was a great person, and he carried on the Hawks’ long tradition of having players (like Lou Hudson, Steve Smith, and Dikembe) who made us proud off the court.

Rest in peace, #40.

By Matt

April 18, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

(Yeah, just realized that if we’d made the playoffs last year we wouldn’t have had the chance to draft Horford this year. But the point was that the Hawks would have been better sooner with Collier on board.)

By mykhalc

April 18, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Sekou, props to ya on the Q&A’s to BK and WOODSON!!!

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Najeh, now it’s on. The BWAF is here!

Before I get to the end, let’s use a little beginning & middle.

For all the folks who complain because the Hawks record is not stellar for a playoff team, identify for me the last time the participating team made the rules to determine who gets in the playoffs. They played by the rules given to them and took care of business relative to the other 7 teams in the east that did not.

I put this in the Lyle Lovett-Julia Roberts category. You may not like the hook up, but given the rules at hand, he won the prize at that time. Same for 07-08 Hawks.

Next

If you want the playoffs to be more interesting, the NBA needs to take a lesson from the world of Track & Field!

Yes, I know track doesn’t get good ratings on TV, but think about how they advance through the rounds in the big events. The NBA could say the top 6 records in each conference go, plus the next 4 best records regardless of conference. If you are not one of the better teams, you take what you get. Among the bottom 4 they are seeded, first based on conference and 2nd on record. If there was a tie at the end, you get a 1 game playoff at the home of the team with the better conference record. If conf rec the same, use division record.

Using this years example, there would have been 10 teams from the west and 6 from the east sorry to us and Philly, happy days in Golden State & Portland.

Since Boston & Detroit had the top 2 records, the unusual matchups would be Bos vs Por & Det vs Tor. Por & Tor had same 41-41, but Tor had better conf record.

If Philly had the same 41-41, then there would have been a 1 game playoff between the 2 teams that had the worst conf records among Phi, Por, & Tor. This probably would have been Philly at Por on Fri 4/18 with winner getting series at Bos starting Sun.

finally

Do you expect Woody to say? I thought they would have fired me months ago. Since I got to stay around this long, why shouldn’t I get an extension. Look at the Thrashers, if Don Waddell still has a job, I should get a big @$$ raise!

Blogville has had its say. Sekou gave Woody a chance for his. However, the difference is that he is at work when his words make it to these pages. How many times have you wanted to say any of the following at work (if you are honest with yourself.)

Call it even argument. This year wasn’t my best, but I didn’t get paid what I was worth in (year of excellence), so we can call it even.

OR Gearon’s unsophisticated customer argument Customer/blogger X is a jerk. I should get paid extra just for dealing with him/her.

OR ASG/BK - Boss is clueless argument My boss doesn’t get it, we would be so much better if he got us the right resources.

but you don’t say these things in public, less you have to explain them and deal with the public flogging from the appropriate folks to show that they run their business well and don’t take crap from employees that don’t tote the company line.

I think he’s done, but I’m not going to throw him under the bus for not throwing himself under the bus!

BWAF

By Astro Joe

April 18, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Matt, well said. And Collier would be the perfect complement to Horford, with his shooting range and willingness to do a little banging down low.

#21=Top 50, reality is that we have a bottom 5 payroll, a bottom 5 GM and a bottom 5 head coach and yet we’re in the playoffs. Yes, in a watered down conference, but we’re still better than 8 other Eastern Conference teams. So while there is blame to go around, everyone can take a little credit for not being one of the conference’s bottom 8 this season. If by some miracle, we did win the next series, I think everyone should come back. (Except maybe Za, I’m about done with his soft a$$).

By roan st

April 18, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Boston in a 4 game sweep. EOM.

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

#21=Top 50 It’s UGA Hoops. If Woody win a series, he stays, even though there is a pink slip in a file with his name on it, in SportsCenter speak, Right Now!

If we won a title this year, Woody could stay for a long while. It would be odd, but I could live with it. If we get past Boston, he is Dennis Felton and gets a new contract.

However, if this does happen, I immediately run out and buy 100 tickets for the biggest lottery in the country, because I am about the be nouveau tacky riche.

BWAF

By dboss

April 18, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

I donot understand whay Hawks fans are so down on Woodson complaining about not using his bench.

Prolem with the Hawks is that they do not have a bench. Not enough talent on this teamy et and the Hawks cannot win playing two PF. hawks need a center among other things.

Celtics in a sweep 4-0

dboss

By Bob Weiss

April 18, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

The picture of Woodson on the Sports home page is hilarious! They captured the MIKE WOODSON FACE (mouth open, confused look)!!!! MUHAHAHA

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

My apologies for this-my final pro BK rant until after the playoffs

Now, scroll if you want to…

Astro Joe I have to disagree with the bottom 5 GM. For this season, let’s look at:

the other BK (Billy King-gone) in Philly

The NY cap killer (Isiah Thomas)

Whoever is running Memphis? I’ll take a handful of magic beans for the tall Spaniard!

Pat (going down the same road as Isaiah w/o the harrassment suit) Riley. Team so bad, I’ll take a few games off and go scout players.

Milwaukee’s departed Larry Harris. Decent pieces-bad team. Yi, I, Yi, I go…

I know you all love Paxson in Chicago. Let’s muck up the heads of our young guys with Kobe trade talk and then fire the coach for Christmas.

I could make arguments for BK being better than guys in Toronto, NJ and/or Dallas depending on how you look at the Kidd trade, Los Clippers, Indy since the big brawl, Seattle—but you have to factor in that ownership mess, & Charlotte.

If you want to show a little blasphemy against success, before the Gasol deal, who said Kupchak was doing a good job? For every Bynum there was a Smush Parker at starting PG. He gets D Fisher only due to medical issue and the good graces of Utah.

Kevin McHale may not be as good. He did get something for KG, but it seems that he had a decade to build around him and did…Let me know when you have a positive response.

I think we are in the middle of the pack w/o tugging on sacred capes. If you factor in payroll (not salary cap), we are 28th of 30. Even when you factor in the west, we are far better than the 28th best team in the league. Even after dealing with free agency, I suspect that our talent level will be seen as better than our payroll rank.

BK ain’t great, but he’s better than you rate him.

Even some of his failings—Shelden—gone; not picking rookie PG—went out and got several experienced ones—Speedy, AJ, Bibby, and a newbie—ACL4. Don’t even get me started on BK vs Babcock. I know you all miss Ed Gray & DeMarr Johnson.

Don’t forget the deals he did not do—Big Eddie Curry, Dampier. Restraint has its value lest you have to pay $20MM for Starbury to stay away.

BWAF

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this

Check out sekou’s one on one Interview with Mike Woodson!!!

By doc

April 18, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

manny t, i concur, he isnt as bad as a lot but isnt that how we describe our team? still shake my head at how he has run things but then get downright shivers to see how other guys have run things and held onto their jobs, incredible. nice and fair rundown there and though many say he is bottom five including the press he isnt. now just dont get me talking about the bottom five owners because somehow the BASG has made sterling look like a prince.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

doc/ray:

In that interview with Sekou.? Was that a shot by Woodson at the Blog Z Liars Club? Since several of the regulars in the Club sit in on Hawks games, it sure sounded like one to me.

” Clueless in Atlanta ” - a horror film starring Michael Woodson. Too bad the hostage Atlanta Hawks fans have to be in it.

I’m glad I can’t attend games like some of you guys. Woodson and his family would surely hear from me after that comment. I make enough of a fool out of myself on here.

You denizens need to kidnap Eddie Jordan next year. Say, can this guy really coach two NBA teams at once.?

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 18, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Separated at birth: BWAF and Mr. Potato-Head?

If MPH loses the hat and pink ears, there is a striking resemblance…

I report, you decide…

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

dboss:

2PF, no center. You catch on fast big guy. Except in the horror film starring Woodson there is only a sixth man - no bench.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

NJ:

You’re not running a “Good Morning Vietnam” flash-back on us are you?

By ray

April 18, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

Funny: HHBO duking it out with HB Ando.

Funnier: HHBO calling Ando out to make it live and in person.

Funnier than that: Doc trying to referee and Astro Joe fastidiously ignoring the entire thing.

Funniest: HHBO doesn’t know what HB Ando looks like and ends up going round for round with ray at one of the games, then finds out that spitting in ray’s face means you don’t make it out of the first round.

Yes, I’m stirring the pot. Nothing, I say, NOTHING…beats a cyber fight.

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

ray:

My man. Damm!! Fall down funny.

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Sekou also sat down with Billy Knight

By ray

April 18, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Najeh, you are off the CHAIN, man! I look forward to your posts, too funny! Glad you liked my “Afro Ayatollah”. Took me a few seconds to think that one up.

RichBrave, it wouldn’t surprise me at all if Woody was taking a shot at Sekou’s blog. I could care less. We’ve taken shots and made hits like a sniper. The target was clear. The target was obvious.

Major credit goes to Sekou Smith for his Q&A interviews with Billy Knight and Mike Woodson.

Billy:

Nice way to evade some of those questions, particularly in the case of Mike Woodson. I can live with you being here provided you continue to make decisions and deals like you did in the Bibby trade. That was well done. You still scare me on draft days (except this year). If you’re still here, please do not sign anymore useless big men that are more concerned with pulling pranks on rookies than they are pulling down rebounds (Lorenzen Wright), or any oft-injured/brittle guards who won’t play for the better part of two years (Claxton). Please get a center and a better coach. Firing Woody (or trying to) gets you some brownie points in my book. Try again on that one will you, please? If you’re still here, that is.

Woody,

First things first. Don’t try to make this about the team. The negativity is largely about YOU. Players get criticized from time to time. They’re either used to it or they’re going to get used to it. But nobody’s calling for their heads. In fact, over time we’ve come to realize that it’s YOU who isn’t teaching, coaching, developing them correctly. People say that there’s no way guys like Chris Paul, Brandon Roy, and Deron Williams could be as good as they are now, if they played for the Hawks. Why? Because of YOU. So what are you gonna do, blame the players? You already did by saying that guys didn’t play because they weren’t ready. Sounds like you’re taking stabs at players and the GM. So how do you know if a guy’s ready or not? By the way he practices? Funny, reports have been that guys have practiced like hell for you…but still no PT. It’s like riding a bike…you’re never “ready” enough to do it. You get that way by trying it. If you fall too many times, you put the training wheels back on. But the training wheels are not what helps you learn. They are just there to keep you from falling. You learn by DOING it.

Guys like Sheldon Williams I understand to a point. He’s not what he was supposed to be. That one’s on Billy. But Law? West? These guys have definable roles to play. They won’t get better in practice, they’ll only get better in games. And don’t give me that crap about two wrist injuries. That only accounts for some of the missed time. By the way, Royal Ivey is a totally different guy in Milwaukee. Let me guess…he wasn’t “ready” to play while he was here. Yeah.

You haven’t made a case for much of anything. Mike Bibby is one of the biggest reasons that we even managed to win 37 games. Without Bibby this team would be struggling to match last year’s win total. Bibby is Billy’s claim to fame (or job retention). Not yours. The best thing you did was let the man take over.

I’ll say this and leave it alone for the moment. Billy did a bad job matching you with this team. You’re a bad fit. You need to coach veterans, not young players. I’ve always considered you with two “C” words in mind. First one is Class. You’ve got it. You’re consistent. The second one is Clueless. You think that people don’t know what you’re trying to do here. Give me a break. The whole league knows the utter futility of your every move. The local commentators are trying to be polite in pretending confusion as far as your play-calling, substituting, and decision-making are concerned. It’s pitiful. Ask your players what they think is “unfair.” Ask them what they think is “tough.” Respecting you is what one human being should do to another. It’s what separates professionals from thugs. I’m willing to bet there’s a lot more bridges burnt than you’d be willing to believe.

Negativity? You EMBODY it. You PERSONIFY it.

By ray

April 18, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

SalimFan, I saw those articles. I may have gone overboard on the comments about Woodson’s interview, but the guy pi$$es me off. Continually.

Richbrave, I know I’m a nutcase. I can’t help it.

By ray

April 18, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

MannyT, wanting to fire Woody and getting Bibby here for practically nothing was a step in the right direction for Billy as far as I’m concerned. Couple that with mightily resisting the urge to draft Brandon Wright (and getting Horford instead) as well as selecting Acie Law, and you have a string of decent decisions. Personally, Paxson up in Chicago is worse….easily. He had it all: the draft position, the young talented players, and plenty of assets and leverage. He totally created a goat F#k up there. TOTALLY. Billy never had that much to work with. Still hate many of his draft day decisions, but Paxson sold the rights to LaMarcus freakin’ Aldridge for Ty Thomas. He signed Big Bum Wallace to 60 big ones. He let Eddy Curry (kinda understand that one though) *AND Tyson Chandler go (don’t understand that one). Billy wishes he had even a fraction of the number of quality big men that Paxson had to work with.

All I can say is if Paxson also roamed the sideline, he’d be right up there with Isaiah Thomas for Dummy of the Year.

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

doc you get no ownership rebuttal from me.

It’s a shame that the Ted Turner media vortex sucked up the sports teams as well. Things have been weird for all of them ever since the Time Warner days. Corporations don’t go the the club to brag about their sports teams, individual owners do!

As for the playoff gloomers…yeah Boston’s better than us, so what? Should we not show up for the games? I think the fine for a no-show is bigger than the one for messing up Shaq’s foul count. I’d rather play than pay.

Let’s take that TV exposure and do our best. Maybe we get the right eyeballs to fill that mid level exception free agent slot with an asset that will come here and give a big contribution.

Take the existing team, plus a good, plug the middle, defensive center that can give us 25-30 minutes/game. That should make us a few games better even with Woody. If that guy and a full season of Bibby gives us 1 game per month we’ve got 41 or 42 wins. If the young guys continue to develop maybe we’re a 44 or 45 win team. Cleveland got the 4th seed with 45 wins this year.

All that w/o any trades or draft picks or factoring in David Andersen, but a decent showing on TV.

BWAF

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 18, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

Kevin McHale is the worst GM in the NBA by a pretty wide margin. Chris Wallace is 2nd. Isiah Thomas is/was 3rd. Larry Harris is/was 4th. Beyond that, you could stick Billy Knight, Billy King, whichever Paxson is in Chicago, Danny Ferry, and a couple of other people in there for the 5th spot.

By cp

April 18, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

Great posts Ray. Im ready for the playoffs.

By ray

April 18, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this

CP, thanks. I’m ready for ‘em too.

MannyT, is that your long-term goal? 41-45 games? Or just next year’s hope? It’s an improvement, but would we have to keep the author of the WAF?

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this

david and GOLIATH

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Najeh

you are so cool! :o cooler than a polar bear’s toe nails!

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

ray-star is POY.

the freak! the man! the legend! give it up - he’s breakin’ them’ fools over there at the AJC

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

hey ray

A cyber-sluttress in a cyber-fight?

What could be better? And these are just a few of my favorite things!

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

winning is a man-ifestation!

By drmaryb

April 18, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

BA is a punk!

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

Oh no ray, Please don’t apologise lol. I couldn’t have said it better myself. Players not ready? what a bunch of BS!!! Salim stoudamire is a grand total of ONE year younger than Joe Johnson at 25 years old (Joe is 26). He’s almost an old man age-wise on the team. And you say he’s not ready? YOU WASTED THREE YEARS OF HIS LIFE AND SHAVED THAT MUCH TIME OFF OF HIS PLAYING CAREER YOU MORON!!!

Salim is a beast. Acie law is a penetration god, and Defense doesn’t get any better that Mario West. Let’s not even bring J-Rich into his arguement (all he did was come in games and drop three after three in the few games he played in). And you know what that Idiot Fizdale said about J-Rich? “Defensively he’s not ready, he’s got some work to do.”…Blow up the whole staff thats what I say.

I’m not gonna go hard on BK because as ray poetically puts it, BK get’s “Brownie Points” for trying to fire that clown (And for drafing Salim Stoudamire….).

Other than shelly (BK), It’s on YOU woody no one buy YOU and only YOU.

ray not overboard yet, If we all came to the game in suits and balled heads with shirts that had Mr. Potato Head on them and said said “Off With Woody’s Bald Head”….now thats overboard…..Not a bad Idea though.

By ray

April 18, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

SalimFan, I’d do it and even do the WAF pose, but I don’t think I’ve ever been able to get that dumb of a look on my face….

Astro Joe, while we’re laughing about Chris Paul and hating all the love for him…let’s laugh about how he led his team to 56 wins AND the playoffs as a #2 seed in the tough-as-nails Western Conference. The man led a team that, outside of him, is collectively less talented than OUR team…to the 2nd best record in the West. Yeah, you’re right. It’s freakin’ hilarious. What’s even funnier is how much better he would’ve made our team. Look what Bibby did, in his more limited capacity. I hate to live in the past, but people keep dragging this one back up. Woodson or no Woodson, this guy makes teams better. Period. Way better. He makes Byron Scott look good in much the same way Lebron James makes Mike Brown look good. Of course, I think Byron Scott is a better coach, but that’s me. If you get the last laugh (metaphorically speaking, as New Orleans will still retain that honor…we were too stupid to pick Paul) and the Hornets exit the playoffs early, it will be because they are playing against a team with two major all-stars and other very talented players that has been playing for championships, not because they are no better than us, or Paul is no better than Marvin.

I think we should all laugh this off…just as soon as we can wipe the tears off of our faces…

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

Asro Joe, I feel you on your 1:29pm post lol. Yes and i’m hrough with zaza’s soft a$$ also.

Manny T, BK is not at tyhe botom of the list as far as GM’s go IMO. The middl of the pack sounds right.

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Astro Joe, I agree with your 1:29pm post. I’m tired of all the CP3 talk. Also I’m tired of zaza’s soft a$$ lol.

Manny T I agree BK is not among the bottom feeders when it comes to leauge GM’s. Somewhere in the middle sonds about right.

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

I’m laughin all right…I think I just choked on a tear…SOMEBODY GET ME ANOTHR BOX OF LOTTERY PICKS!!.

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

LOL Ray, Woody Clueless will go down in Hawks history.

By MannyT

April 18, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

ray the answer is in my 3:51 post. I am not saying we should keep Woody, but I do see mid 40s as a minimum win expectation even if he did stay.

My long term goal is a title. I want a parade and some championship gear and all the euphoria that goes with it. I have been in the right place at the right time for 1.5 NCAA and 4 NBA titles. I’m starting to think it’s time to move because the ATL and I only have the Braves title and I’m not a baseball fan.

Remember I was off the Woody bandwagon in November when the running game play book either ran away from Philips Arena or got a seat between Mario & Salim on the bench.

I do expect him to be better in his 2nd head coaching job. To get there, he’s got to leave this first one.

SalimFan my question for Fizdale and all the other coaches about almost every guy on the bench is…why couldn’t you get them more prepared to play? Everyone except J Rich has been here all season. Including Herb Brown there are 7 coach-like personnel and 13 players. I don’t think they are coaching up Speedy. So if I kindly leave Mr. Brown off the count, there are 6 coaches for 12 players. Seven of the players have been in this system for multiple years.

It’s not like a bunch of new elements were added to the pro game this year…or did I miss the rule about a 4 pt line. Maybe I need glasses, but the lane looks the same size as last year…no trapezoids until the Olympics.

Fortunately, the IBEW (Infamous Bloggers Exposing Weaknesses) research staff caught me before I finished this post. They tipped me to the NBA rules changes for this season

Unless J Rich is a brawler who gets frequent flagrants, none of these should have slowed the coaching staffs’ ability to coach him up.

Maybe the difficulty coaching up five new players who play basketball as their job (as opposed to in between a few classes at college) is all the different sets they use for defense.

Man, zone, trap. I’m sure there are variants of each, but how many defensive schemes do we really run during the 5 minutes a bench guy gets to play? I know it’s harder than rock, paper, scissors, but it ain’t rocket science, origami, & outer space metallurgy.

I’m sure Fizdale and Gearon would refer me to chapter 16 of this book before I get to say, seems like you could do more with the bench players.

ray I think I need a tip line to report Fizdale and the rest of the coaching staff to the blog crimes unit

I was in a good mood before I did this post. Now I’ve got a headache and no game to watch for 13 more hours when the Wiz drop one on Bron-bron. AAAGGH

BWAF

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

ray:

Love that nut-case. Please don’t stop.

By g-thang

April 18, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this

ok the hawks are in the playoffs, they may win they may not, but the fact remains we have no 1st or 2nd rd picks this year, both josh’s are restricted free agents and bibby contract is up next year. these are facts that can’t be debated. WHAT DO WE DO?

By richbrave

April 18, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

drmaryb:

How’s that thong-thang girl.?!! You ready to rumble.?

No downside for the Hawks on this one. They win the series, the universe including most here are dumb-founded. Doc Rivers and his gang are hung in effigy from Faneil Hall.

They lose, they learn. They grow as men and as a team. The experience of even being in a playoff series is worth years of regular league play, and a real boost to their pride. They get some swagger which the Wooden-one cannot take away, ever.

And the Horror movie “Clueless in Atlanta” has a happy ending for everyone; management, GM, players and most of all long-suffering Atlanta fans.

All that is except the lead actor, the Wooden-one who is exposed to the nation for what he is————(fill in the blank)———-.

Revel and be merry Mary. Wish I could join you at Phillips.

By SalimFan

April 18, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

Lol @ Manny T, I doubt chapter 16 could help those idiots lol.

Check out the ESPN scouting report and matchup analysis on The hawks and the C’s

By HB Ando

April 19, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

I don’t know who’s more delusional: Billy Knight for suggesting that he’s well within his rights to say “I told you so”, after failing to draft Paul, Deron, Igoudala, Deng and Monta Ellis, choosing to draft Shelden and Marvin, signing Speedy to a $26 million contract, and taking credit for failing so badly, and, as a result, being in position to luck out on the ping pong balls, and keep #3, rather than give #4 to the Suns, last year, leading to the ultimate booby prize of Al Horford,

OR, HHBO, for highlighting his own ignorance, and lack of familiarity with the relationships on this blog, by naming friends like Doc and Clyde as folks who “ran me back to the desert”. Gee, son, it’s kind of odd that there were so many responses to our exchange, but not a single one seemed to have your back. Doc suggested you are a guppy, hooking yourself on a chicken liver-baited hook, like the bottom feeding catfish you so clearly resemble.

Ray and I share a chuckle at the oh-so-realistic visual of you getting b*** slapped for drooling on the wrong “Ando”.

My increasingly infrequent visits are nothing more than boredom, and the reality that this team just won exactly one more game than I predicted (I was at 36). If you confuse my disinterest in coming hear to say “I told you so”, with me being run off, you’re more brain damaged than you sound (which is no small feat).

I must admit that calling me HalfBroke Banjo is nearly as clever as Tyger calling me HandJob. You two half-wits must have consumed a similar quantity of lead paint chips, as children, and quite possibly, shared rides to “school” on the same short bus.

Rich, it’ll be four straight. Don’t doubt it for a second. The match ups couldn’t be worse. Rondo won’t give Bibby room to breathe. Allen and JJ will cancel each other out. And Marvin is screwed either way, in trying, helplessly, to cover either Pierce or KG. Even Perkins is a bad match up for Horford.

This playoff berth is far more the by product of a pathetic Eastern Conference, than the start of something special. Between now and next years’ all-star break, at least 2, and as many as four, of these Hawks, will be gone. And if Woody goes (which he should), then Billy has to go too, or there’s not a compelling coaching candidate who would be willing to join this circus.

Now that Isiah is gone, Billy has no other diversion, within the league, to take attention away from his mind-boggling ineptitude.

Billy suggesting to Sekou that this 37-win season, and a largely meaningless opportunity to play the role of the Washington Generals, to the Celtic’s Globetrotters, was somehow a vindication of his rebuilding plan, is the biggest public lie since Bill Clinton said he didn’t use Monica as a humidor.

HHBO, talking to you is like redirecting a 3-year old. I know it’s impossible that you can follow what I’m saying. But there’s a since of moral obligation in trying potty train you, for the betterment of mankind (even though you’ll be a diaper-wearing mouth breather for the duration).

HHBO. BA. TB. Are you all the same person?

Doc, 7:21 AM: so I’m supposed to laud you for being right about ONE issue? Which one? I traded e-mails with Levenson, and agreed that I’d let folks enjoy the moment, before returning to litany of valid question marks that will appear, like a swarm of locusts, once the sweep is over, and the summer arrives, with the specter of massive, and inevitable, change consumes the franchise, from the top to the bottom.

I’m planning on being at game 4, with fantasy hoops champ Jhan, thanks to his ongoing generosity. Will be nice to see the last game of the season……….

By MannyT

April 19, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

g-thang We are ok as long as there is some cash to pay the folks. If we do the lazy GM thing, we wait for an offer sheet to match the restricted free agent Joshes. Think Cleveland and Andersen Varejao last season. If we cannot/will not match an offer sheet, there is a sign & trade opportunity to get a center.

No picks means no additional salary expense. Bibby’s not an issue until the end of next season. If we are not doing well, I can see a baseball like salary dump for key players in February OR there is your cap space to go after a good free agent if AC Law develops.

BWAF

By ray

April 19, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

MannyT, I hear you.

By BA

April 19, 2008 3:26 AM | Link to this

Hey Ando, I’m the one and only BA. If I were to post under a different name, it would be for a humorous purpose, not to attack you. I promise, I’ll attack in person. I’ve accepted that the tone of your posts is going to range from pessimistic to downright, well, bitter. To each his own. But I won’t take the hook, as Doc says. Don’t lump me in with these other bloggers, just accept that someone with an extreme stance like yours is going to be vulnerable to attacks. At least you’re getting noticed, right? What I mean is, I don’t agree with a lot of your stuff, but it makes good reading. Not as good as Ray, but solid stuff. Don’t take it personal when I say that I think(hope) that you’re completely wrong about the coming offseason. Because if they lose Smith OR Childress, I’m done with the Hawks. What’s the old saying, fool me once (trading ‘Nique) shame on me? You know the rest…

By Horford Rox

April 19, 2008 4:33 AM | Link to this

As reported by Horford Rox

There was a disgusting sound, feel, smell, and taste in the boston area today. No, I didn’t fart. It was the painful reality of an unexpected playoff series defeat at the unlikely hands of the ATLANTA HAWX!

What in the blasphemed name of Larry Legend happened? Joe Johnson, Mike Bibby, and too much of THE REAL Rookie of the Year, Al Horford!! Those guys dominated our dominating defense.

It all started on Sunday, when Horford gave KG an Arn Anderson caliber DDT on the celtics’ home floor.

The celtics charged toward ATLANTA’s bench, only to get a nasty beat down from HARRY THE HAWK and former footballer, William “Bill” Goldberg. That was just the beginning of the end of boston’s reign atop the eastern conference.

ATLANTA would go on to win the series, 4 games to 2 and…

Horford Rox would write/forecast more info regarding the celtics’ demise, but it’s late and he is tired!

If Prince Charming is looking for Cinderella, ATLANTA’s foot will fit the shoe!! Go HAWX and BEAT ‘EM UP IF YOU HAVE TO!!!!!

By Horford Rox

April 19, 2008 4:36 AM | Link to this

P.S. I STILL hate Laimbeer!!

By richbrave

April 19, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

BA:

HB does love his mental sparring. But all in good fun hopefully. Nice reponse by the way.

HB:

I don’t recall running anyone anywhere with the possible exception of “Pepsi” and “Diet Pepsi.” But then I don’t remember much anyway.I for one enjoy your more severe takes on the state of the hawks ship-of-state. Excuse my occasional tweaks to draw you out. I don’t presume to think you should post here for our amusement. I actually want to read what you have to say. The perspective is refreshing to me. I won’t presume to speak for others, but there is added value in you style and content. Good to have you back for a spell.

By Moy

April 19, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

There’s no way Woody’s coming back next year, Not even if the hawks win the whole thing. This guy just flat out cannot coach and I’m glad the hawks will be on National TV so that the whole nation can see. Yes, we made the playoffs, but it feels like we should have won at least 5-10 more games.

By doc

April 19, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

manny t good stuff, i know it isnt a competition but you are giving ray a run for his money, love you both. i just hope you bring the snowflake out for the playoffs so i can find you in the crowd.

salim thanks for the link, sad to say it is what folks with clear minds know even if they are hwkk fans but are shot down if they suggest it to the masses on the blog for being negative. someone always has to shoot the messenger. appropriate lead into … our favorite messenger ….

now speaking of love … ando, i love it when you bring the basketball talk. you know i agree with the cold assessment of what is to happen and what questions will be brought up as the season turns into the off season and will join in. if you have read lately or kept up with the blog, it is what i have been saying all along ….. what happens or doesnt this summer is crucial and the true measure of whether i can stop calling the ownership the broken atlanta spirit group aka BASG and whether they can muster up support and respect from the masses.

glad to hear you scored a ticket and i look forward to seeing you there as i have scored a few from the leo sloss man, laid out my plastic to the gracious owners for making it possible (yeah right) and will bring my youngest saturday and eldest monday. this is what it is all about as you are soon to find out.

as far as being right, yes, i knew you couldnt admit it. what i continuously said was, let it play out and you will find that jj was worth the price for something we havent got and would have to train over a period of four or five years. sad we cant as an organization get ready made players like the big boys do in boston, l.a. phoenix, san antoine, dallas etc. in other words we cant play with the big boys because of the basg. now as far as being right you can say i lucked into it like the owners did with horford but even so i was right. the critical thing and what we have to remember now is the folks that really have to look at it are belkin and the basg remaining group to wonder in the end was it really worth it the stand down. can they really look int o the mirror and not see something really stupid looking back at themselves, especially belkin because it has cost them more money that patience and compromise would have provided. wasnt it AJ that long ago talked about it as a fight in the sand box? as BA says shame on them and that is why i say we are hostage and can pretend all we want. that is what is going to be the foundation for comments going forward.

so, in the mean time, i look forward to sharing it with my kids and especially look forward to seeing you, giving you the usual manly hug and introducing you to my son. those are the good times win or lose. i think that is what most who are saying to wait before raining on my parade are saying, enjoy the moment.

BA, nice work at the liars table, solid. way to stand your ground, good boundaries and stayed away from the personal attacks. you seemed to play the course well today. some folks can learn from your tact, maybe? heh heh

By **NATIVE SON**

April 19, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Sekou:Congrats on a blog filled season. Though you have many idiots here, you persevered in spite of. There is also a distinguished panel of opinionators like no other blog session. Thanks for an amusiingly poignant ;discussable, topic driven, Hawks NBA season. As an observer, the Hawks really should be at the 45 game plateau at the least, and while i don’t like dipping into the negative, Woodson baffled us all with his gamesmanship, and sub pattern, which would include player development. I think what’s going to be most evident throughout this series is, they never developed an identity as a team. You can’t sell that factor short either. That is the one weapon a team has to have to combat The Leagues unspoken “STAR POWER” laws, where the perceived bigger team, or star, gets the calls. It was in full effect in the 2cd Lakers / Hawks game, with Kobe, and Joe. It’s gonna be as relevant now, as it was then, and they 4 supes, if you count Cassell. As a fan.”GIV’ UM HELL HAWKS!” PEACE, from da Nativ

By doc

April 19, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

ok basketball time: picking them in the first round, dont claim to be nostredamus like g-thang but here goes and i will put it on the line.

1. first our hawks will lose in four maybe five. their only chance is to come from a different look and feed horford like they havent before telling him to become tim duncan and get 22 to 25 a night with 10 boards. can it be done? yes, but they have to first feed him and give him the ball more than they have in the past and if he doesnt make his first two to continue to bash inside. where is j smash in all this? certainly not at the perimeter. no, he has to be fighting for offensive rebounds underneath establishing a post presence of his own. only marvin, jj and bibby should be seen on the perimeter or anywhere near it. this game has to be won underneath if it is to be the hawks.

as far as bibby we need only 10 to 12 points a game and 2 to 3 threes a game from him but need nash like dimes in the 10 to 12 range. jj needs to come with only 18 a night but play clamp down nba playoff like defense. finally marvin HAS to grow up and make his open looks and play d and rebound what is left from which ever place on the court he is. in other words crash it.

chills needs to scrap and get active on the baseline and getting some garbage. zaza will have to become some of what he was two years ago but without the offense unless called for, if he stands his ground rather than flop we do better. salim needs to hit a few and woody needs to pat him on the back and hug him a bit as he comes off the floor instead of his classic pose of BWAF that is the body language that turns off people any people. it is the look of someone that doesnt want to communicate, not what is needed from your leader, only a tirant, body language 101.

1. the wiz take the cavs if arenas doesnt get in their way.

2. and 4. orlando and detroit take care of business and send the raptors and sixers packing by 6 and 5 respectively.

to the west

1. the lakers snuff ai and carmelo and start their run to the finals. do you remember how people in the know showed their stupidity crying no he is too weak when many here wanted gasol? he has been huge for them and is a talent that might make it onto the big stage as the only thing big he had to compete with in memphis was graceland and there was no way he could compete with that. he is not a weak player but it will be interesting to see if dr. phil as in jackson can get him mentally ready for his biggest task to date.

2. houston just doesnt have it going for them enough to take out the team first oriented jazz. utah by 6.

3. sad to say but i dont know or think cp is able to put away a very good mavs team beginning to show a bit of the nads it takes to win again after being decimated by the warriors last year. they begin to get some respectability back and make it to the second round but it will take 7 and if it does it could be a crap shoot.

4. finally, the best for last. my beloved suns with my beloved shaq and their last stand against the defending champs in round one. it is a shame one of these teams has to go home after the first round as they are both worthy of at least being in the finals if not the championship game. if nothing else this game makes it mandatory that the nba change its format to allow better equilibration between the best and the nether worlds as neither the sixers, hawks, raptors and wiz and maybe the cavs could compete with either of these two teams for five games at this stage of the playoffs. until it is changed we have to do the obligatory and say it is one or the other and i pick … yes, even though i really like the big fundamental, i pick the suns in a beautiful series that goes five and the suns and shaq along with amare getting revenge for the kick or two that horry and bowen laid on them last year. for every one of those hits shaq is going to put five more on duncan each game and the big fundamental will not be able to match up against both shaq and amare if the latter two simply play within themselves. duncan looked bewildered in the last match up at home when the suns came to play. it will take 7 beautiful games no matter who wins and this series is why the march madness no longer can match up to the nba playoffs for the true basketball fan.

ok, i have said my peace. have at it and may the best BLOG Z lair win.

By doc

April 19, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

how the numbers were lost in translation when i pushed post

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 19, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

Lakers over Nuggets in 5 — I don’t pick teams that refuse to play D

Hornets over Mavs in 7 — I’m not buying the Mavs’ resurgence

Suns over Spurs in 6 — the Spurs’ window of opportunity is closing, and Shaq’s presence has turned the Suns into a championship team… seriously

Rockets over Jazz in 7 — Jazz are unbeatable at home and mediocre on the road, and that’s gonna continue in this series

—

Celtics over Hawks in 5 — being a Hawks fan I’ll grant us one game, but realistically it’s hard to see them winning any more than that

Pistons over Sixers in 6 — Sixers are a scrappy team that will give the Pistons some trouble but in the end they don’t have enough to pull off the upset

Magic over Raptors in 5 — I don’t trust teams full of soft Euroleague players, but the Raptors have some loyal (if insane) fans so I’ll give them one home game

Cavs over Wizards in 7 — I know the Wizards are deeper, but last I checked the Cavs made the finals last year with an equally sh-tty supporting cast… at the end of the day they still have the best player in the conference

There are my picks, which are guaranteed to be wrong.

Oh yeah, it is absolutely hilarious to see the ESPN commentators try to analyze Soulja Boy’s status in the hip hop world and how it relates to DeShawn Stevenson and LeBron James.

By doc

April 19, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

najah, i am so happy i read my news nowadays. i can also say comfortably, who?

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 19, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Doc, Soulja Boy is like the Zaza Pachulia of rappers.

By doc

April 19, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

see, i can get my news without the tv. thanks! ;-)

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

April 19, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

Two quasi-related Hawks things:

1. Glad to see “F” Boris Diaw pull a “France” in the final moments of the game. Way to be clutch and justify that contract extension.

2. I’m mad the Cavs stole the Hawks phrase from a couple years ago of “Rise Up”. I’ve since adopted that phrase and always thought “Witness” was pretty good by itself. Who’s next? Clyde’s signature closing cry?

RISE UP

By ray

April 19, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

I don’t do predictions. Never have. Not out loud, anyway. Call me what you want, but I just don’t do ‘em. Much.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 19, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this

The LeBron-Soulja Boy feud deepens…

By ray

April 19, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

Today In The News

First Blood drawn, and I don’t mean Rambo, either. Wow. What a game between San Antonio and Phoenix! So…uh, what was somebody saying about the Big Fundamental looking “bewildered” against Shaq and Amare? Well, I know this: that 3-pointer he hit to force the first overtime was very “bewildering” to the Suns…How about Nash’s three right towards the end of the 2nd overtime? Wow! And then Ginobilli doing one of his crazy layups to win it all. Yep…no shot blockers in the game at the time. I wonder what D’Antoni was thinking.

I wonder if the Suns miss Kurt Thomas? If nothing else, they certainly wish they didn’t have to play against him, that’s for sure. He’s a very valuable doesn’t-show-on-the-stat-line kind of guy. He proved it yet again.

Deshawn Stevenson! Where are you? Better yet, where were you when Lebron threw down that one-handed alley oop? I love the playoff-time trash talk. Stevenson had the nerve to call Lebron James “overrated.” Heh. The last time I heard something that stupid was when clown Patterson called himself a “Kobe stopper.” Where is he right now, anyway? Oh yeah, playing scrub minutes somewhere out of sight…what was his first name, anyway?

Long story short, despite the hack-a-thon, Lebron scored 32 on Stevenson and his crew. The Wiz are crazy. This is Lebron. The guy is 6’8”-6’9” and about 245 or so. How long do you suppose playing bumper cars with him is going to last? Wait ‘til he gets really excited. Then you’ll find out just how “overrated” he can be…

Like I said earlier, it’s first blood. One game. But patterns are emerging already. Do the Spurs have the gas to drive past the Suns? Is Lebron’s supporting cast going to be enough? Can the Nuggets play “D”? How big of a chip will CP3 and his mates have on their shoulders? Will Kidd prove to be worth the money (and the loss of good players)? Stay tuned…I know I will!

By richbrave

April 19, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

I loved the play of my Wizards. They’ve developed into a cohesive nine-man unit. I really appreciate the job thet Eddie Jordan has done with them. Now if they could just shut up and play ball they’d be winning the war. This surely beats last year. The key is “Z”. They’ve got to attack him and draw fouls. 0-1 with 6 to go.

By HB Ando

April 19, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Doc, as much as I disparaged Billy, over the years, for giving up unnecessary assets for Johnson, when he could have had him for free, I also always said the deal couldn’t be judged, in finality, until you could establish who was obtained with the use of those picks. At this stage, Diaw seems to be a talented, but lazy-a* dog. Rondo is an emerging force, at the PG, but doesn’t project to be a star. This summer’s pick, the last from the deal, will generate the sum cost. But I’d have to say, as it stands now, that we didn’t actually lose that much from those three picks, and, though I still think including them in the deal was wholly unnecessary, I have no problem agreeing with you position. Not sure it equates to me being wrong, because those picks could have been used in a number of different ways, versus how they have/will be used, from an asset management perspective.

And let us not forget that if it weren’t for a VERY luck bounce of the ping pong balls, the Suns would have used the 4th overall pick in last summers’ draft, and we wouldn’t have Horford. Now that scenario would have changed my overall assessment of the cost for Johnson. You have to be perfectly honest and admit that the only reason we have Horford is that Billy completely miscalculated the time frames, and competitiveness of the team, based on his rebuilding plan. Anyone who suggests that Billy expected to lead this franchise to the fourth-worst record in the NBA, last year, with an even more ludicrous expectation that we’d move from 4th to 3rd, in the draft lottery, and SAVE that pick from Phoenix, netting us Horford, is simply a crackhead. In fact, I defy anyone to offer me a logical explanation for how Billy should be given credit for drafting Horford. Billy agreed to protect only the top 3 picks, for the ‘07 draft, out of an absolute conviction that his decisions would have already placed us in the playoffs. If you don’t believe that, then you’re as delusional as he is (and you should thank your lucky stars that you didn’t follow Jim Jones down to Guyana a couple of decades ago).

Too many variables to consider. And the Johnson deal is way down on the list of Billy’s crimes, at this stage, well after passing on Paul, Deron, Igoudala, Deng, Roy, Foye and Gay, in exchange for Childress, Marvin and Shelden. Below signing Not-so-Speedy.

This is the conversation that defines redundancy: blame is deservedly spread across every aspect of the organization, save the players, who continue to exhibit heart, despite bad coaching and a poorly constructed roster. I’ve consistently embraced shared accountability. Yet folks still seem to mischaracterize my opinion as fixated on Billy, and dismissive of the role the ASG and Woody have played.

So here’s the crux of my current position: Billy says they’re planning on keeping the Josh’s. Based on reasonable projections, as to the annualized salaries these two will likely command, when combined with what will be a $25 million backcourt, in JJ and Bibby, next year, are we supposed to believe that the owners that guys like Doc and Astro have held responsible, for being the broke-a* ASG, are suddenly going to ramp their team salary to the range of the cap?

And if the answer is no, then somebody is full of it. Because Billy can’t re-sign both Josh’s and keep Bibby, without this team looking at a $50+million payroll next year.

And according to Joe and Doc, they won’t spend that kind of money. And if I can access such simple, fuzzy math, then either Billy’s a liar, or Doc and Astro are misrepresenting the ASG’s planned salary commitment, from a cap perspective.

I guess my point is that if folks want to keep pointing the finger at ownership, for limiting Billy’s options, then what happens to that argument, or excuse, when they pony up this summer? And if they don’t pony up, then once again we’re left with the question of accountability, for ownership’s lack of either financial resources, or commitment, and the fact that Billy just flat out lied to Sekou in his interview.

And still there isn’t a soul here who has offered a compelling response to my open, and ongoing, question, of who in the world would spend the $150 million, necessary, to buy out Belkin, without expecting the same type of administrative control that Belkin had, and demanded, which ultimately led to the ASG coup? Folks invest that kind of money expect one of two things: autonomy to optimize and protect their capital investment, or, an absolute faith that the partnership they are joining has a rock-solid track record for decision making. Clearly, the latter is not the case, as the team(s) continue to lose money, and are, from a competitive point, mediocre at the very best. Given that, the former seems the likely expectation of any potential investor. But the ASG would then find itself with Belkin, redux.

I can understand if Belkin, in that role, wasn’t a guy the remaining ASG trusted to wield that power. But I don’t see a scenario where they obtain the financing, to buy Belkin out, without offering similar control to Belkin’s successor. So, it has to be someone with both deep pockets, and enough credibility, from a management standpoint, to convince the ASG to surrender significant control to the new guy/entity.

Lastly, you still can’t find a top-tier, replacement head coach, as long as Billy is the GM. Dude has to go. His ouster is when, not if. And as long as he’s here, the best candidates will pass on the opportunity. Nobody besides a desperate guy, just like a Woodson, would hitch it future to Billy Knight. He’s just as much lame as he is lame duck.

Four and out should give the ASG all the spin they need to clean house, and highlight that they believe Billy and Woody have taken the team as far as they were capable. And now it’s time for change, and an upgrade in both the front office, as well as the head coaching slot.

Told Jhan I might have to bring a broom with me, for game 4. He said there was no way I’m sitting in his seats, if I’m bringing a broom.

Fair enough.

By ray

April 19, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

richbrave, you’re correct.

By Astro Joe

April 19, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Alpha Ando, you win, man. A classic debate technique… just exhaust your opponent. I had to take a nap in between finishing your last 2 posts. All hail Alpha (yawn) Ando. Night night.

By MannyT

April 19, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this

najeh I think you insulted Soulja Boy and Deshawn Stephenson with your 2:32 post. Don’t be surprised if some bearded blogger comes after you on a DC sports blog next season when we play the Wiz.

doc thanks for the kind words. It may be too hot for the snowflake jacket these days, but I may pull out my autographed Esteban Batista shooting shirt. Since he’s about 9 inches taller and 100 pounds heavier, look for the middle aged guy that’s dressed like he’s 12.

Aside from Fantasy Hoops, I’ve never done this but it’s a part of the euphoria of the playoffs and the fact that the Hawks still have not played their game 1 yet.

recognizing that the next part of this could be long, I’ll put it in another post, but here’s the preview…

ANDO, Game on! I like your stuff. It is thoughtful even though I don’t always agree…

BWAF

By doc

April 19, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

ray wasnt sorry as i spent the afternoon with my daughters so i cant say i am sorry i missed the game but it was the type of game i imagined when summing up what was expected and saying it was going to be as good as they come in a division final much less a first round series. i heard bits and pieces of it on the radio and was not surprised the big fundamental showed up huge. maybe he is learning the shaq opossum routine. this was a game you say there shouldnt be a loser and may be the same said for the series. do agree d’antoni must have pulled a campari at the end of the game. not sure i wouldnt have pulled a foul early in the possession to force them to the foul line and still give the suns a chance to either win or tie or called timeout to move he ball up the court if possible. on to the next game, as we bring on the celts.

ray, i still want to know how we didnt get into the kurt thomas sweepstakes with phoenix instead of seattle. what a difference he would have made.

no argument here ando, the summer is what fianally shows the hand the basg is going to play, continue as a nbdl look alike or to join the nba in salary.

By MannyT

April 19, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

ANDO! My point here is specific to some challenges from your 8:45 PM post.

In fact, I defy anyone to offer me a logical explanation for how Billy should be given credit for drafting Horford.

If BK can walk to his own drummer to draft Shelden, why couldn’t he walk to his own drummer to pick a variety of folks at #3? It was very clear that after Oden & Durant, things could have gone in a variety of directions. Look at the comments on this blog and many major sports sites. BK resisted the urge to try to make up for not drafting a PG in the past and skipped Conley. He didn’t follow his long & lean tradition and get Brandan Wright, Corey Brewer, or Yi. He resisted the chance to possibly trade down and still get the next pure center off the board-Hawes.

He had two picks. It would have been easy to not pick Horford at 3 with the idea that he was going to get his big man with the #11 pick or via trade. In fact, he got his big man in 2001 via trade. Some Spaniard named Gasol that the Hawks picked for him—go figure. BK gets credit for moving away from past tendencies and taking the best player that helped, even though he was not a center. OK

Side thought for conversation—what would have happened if we got the #2 pick in the 2007 draft? Durant, Horford, trade, hmmm <— All are welcome—this isn’t Ando specific.

Regarding your best coaches will pass up the opportunity to take the job here comment, I disagree.

First, I would ask you who you think the best currently available coaches for this team might be?

Next, if you have coaching in your veins, there are not so many of these NBA jobs, that allow you to be very selective unless you have been very successful—e.g. Phil Jackson. These guys want to coach and the coaches of good teams rarely leave.

Add to this the unBK factor. Without draft choices, you have a decent idea of what this team will look like in the fall. Granted, a sign & trade with one of the Joshes is possible due to reasons you mentioned. However, the cap rules of the NBA make it less likely that several teams can put a big offer out there unless they have a lot of expiring contracts. I see an Andersen Varejao style negotiation potentially for JSmith because most teams cannot pay him big money.

IBEW research found this note on free agency. Did a quick skim. I like it because it looks at potential free agents for multiple years.

A bigger concern for a new coach should be the BASG. Much of your argument sits on their financial commitment. If they can’t pay, who will stay? The wild card to this answer could be expected 2009 free agents.

Not to distract from the main point, but if you think one true superstar can take you to the title, the Hawks can create a lot of cap room with expiring contracts of Bibby, Zaza, & Solomon. If it is a (very unlikely) get Kobe type deal, they can even renounce Marvin to put together a $25 Million slot.

…and I will not touch that $150 Million question with a 10 ft pole and Warren Buffet’s checkbook.

Looping back, I doubt BK, doc, or Astro are intentionally misrepresenting things. I think the cap squeeze mentioned above will compress some of the salary expectations. Aside from the true max contract players, other guys are going to get a little less than they expect—kind of like the NFL free agents. Big stars will always get big contracts, B level stars get very good contracts some years and decent ones in other years. I think this is a decent contract year because there are so many decent players out there, but many teams have little or no cap room.

2008 NBA Free Agent List

All that said, I’ll be back to the blog tomorrow afternoon. Just so you know I’m not hiding from the great debater.

BWAF

By richbrave

April 19, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Was the Celts-Hawks game on TNT tonight? Richmond just had movies.

By MannyT

April 19, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

richbrave* it is on Sunday.

See right side of this link for schedule.

http://www.nba.com/hawks/tickets/Playoffs.html

BWAF

By Don

April 19, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

Let’s see. That unsurpassed GM, Billy Knight was really smart when he passed by Chris Paul because everyone knows a point guard would NEVER be as important as another small forward. RUN THE BUMB OUT OF TOWN. Hawks lose in 4 BLOWOUTS to the Celtics, because they are not good enough to even pick up the Celtics Jock Straps.

By richbrave

April 20, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

MANNY T:

Thanks man.

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Bigday 2mmorrow team.let’s do what we have to to steal no take game one.Let’s see it’s 7 teams that didn’t make the playoffs in our conference alone.Let alone the 5 teams with worse records in the west.So are we saying 12 gms & coaches need to lose their jobs?while we’re at it let’s fire dumars for drafting darko,the 12 gms that passed on kobe & tmac,the 15 that passed on smoove.Bk’s not the problem.He’s hit way more than he’s missed.The ASG has nixed many deals & firings that could of made us better.

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

i say hire isiah as coach.his indy teams were highly competitive and were the best in the league until the brawl.in NY his teams lacked that defensive pride that al,smoove,jj,& mario have.Plus he’ll play his young players,won’t quit on us(larry brown), a let these guys run,and a bring that edge we need.

By doc

April 20, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

jami care to let us know specifically the trades and deals that the basg got in the way of?

By Horford Rox

April 20, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

I hope you “fans” that are expecting us to lose in 5 games or less keep your unsupportive butts on your butt stained couches and watch Jerry Springer, so that some REAL FANS can fill the seats down at Philips!!

YES, the beantown squad is incredible. They have an awesome S 5 and a great bench…BUT….

Atlanta has a date with destiny (YES, I played that card!).

We WILL CONQUER boston in 6 games! Hate on me if ya want to, but SHUT YOUR MOUTHS WHEN OUR HAWX PROVE ME RIGHT!!!

IF YOU DECIDE TO JOIN ME AT PHILIPS, BE ABSOLUTELY NASTY! OUR HAWX NEED SOME CRAZINESS TO CARRY OVER FROM THE FANBASE!!!

WHEN IS YOUR LAST OR NEXT OPPORTUNITY?

GO HAWX AND HURT ‘EM (INCLUDING SOME OF THESE FOOLS!) IF YOU HAVE TO!!!!!!!!

By ray

April 20, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

Today In The News continued:

First Blood, part 2

Hmmmmph. In yet another installment of “I wonder”, I have to say…I wonder if Golden State is getting that familiar itchy feeling right between the two of the bottom 3 ribs on the left side of their collective chests? The area where a properly, forcefully inserted dagger can do a lot of damage. Maybe, maybe not…but I’m willing to bet at least a few guys feel it ever so slightly. Only this time the dagger’s name isn’t Baron. It’s Chris.

CP3 drops 35 and 10 on Dallas in a come-back win. If that first game was any indication, I’d say the kid can perform decently in the playoffs. So uhhh…I guess that “secret admirer” that Billy gets lavish presents from every year for the last few is somebody who resides in New Orleans….I somehow think that by the time this series is over we’ll see just how much CP3 and JKidd are really worth. But gosh, aren’t you just still glad that we got another forward instead?

MannyT is coming strong. No two ways about it. And how do you follow up a tag line like the WAF or BWAF? I just can’t follow that act. That’s the best tag line since Clyde’s t-shirt slogan…and this one is just so suave and humorous. But that ain’t all there is to it. For a guy to stand up and answer an Ando call-out? Damn. Gotta give the man some serious points for that, especially since his viewpoint isn’t a pile of B.S.

That, and it’s nice to see someone who isn’t “exhausted” by a fact-charged opinion.

Way to go, MannyT. Now let’s see how round 2 goes. Personally, there’s a small thing or two I’d differ with you on, but this is between you and Ando. I’ll butt out.

Having thought about it some, I think the Spurs vs. Suns series comes down to two guys. Nope, not Nash and Parker. Nope, not Amare and Duncan. Not even the committee of Shaq vs. Oberto/Kurt Thomas. Not Bell and Bowen. Not Horry, Finley, Ginobilli, Barbosa, Hill, etc.

Popovich and D’Antoni. I could be wrong, but if both teams are healthy and remain so, it is the decisions of these two men that will determine much. Case in point? Last play of the game. Shaq’s on the bench (D’Antoni’s decision). A play is run for Ginobilli to go to the basket (Popovich’s decision). These guys are leaving signatures on each play that’s run. This time it was Popovich that made the better call. Ginobilli is famous for getting to the basket and making some shot that nobody short of Kobe or Lebron is likely to make. That was game one…

In the meantime, I don’t know what’s worse: waiting for our first playoff game, or waiting for the inevitability of summer. For once, I am looking for dynamic, dramatic things to happen. Oh, and the playoff games should be something to watch, too.

In other news, Blog Crimes Unit member Jhan has discovered that Zaza Pachulia is a long lost relative of the boxing Klitchko (spelling?) brothers. In fact, he’s the third brother! Maybe that explains all the flopping…after all, his brothers probably beat him like a drum when they were all growing up. But then, that doesn’t explain his difficulty in putting away a lightweight like Solomon Jones…hmmmm. Ah well…sources also say that that Zaza’s nickname was “Mat”…cause that’s where he usually stayed in a boxing match. Heh, heh…you know…if this guy ever reads this blog…he’d probably go all Ron Artest on me if we ever met…heh!

Tomorrow’s glory…or shame. We’ll see. Which Nuggets team will show up against the Lakers? Will it even matter? There’s gotta be something criminal about making San Antonio and Phoenix play each other in the first round.

Also…

Tracy McGrady and Co. are sick to death of first round exits. Yet here they find themselves in a matchup that could end up in just that. Will “Choke City” redeem itself? We’ll find out!

That’s all for now…

By Horford Rox

April 20, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

There has NEVER been a more important time in Hawx history to be a FIRED UP FAN!!

BE LOUD! BE NASTY! BE ANGRY!!

PRACTICE WITH ME NOW: I HATE boston! I HATE boston!

BEAT THE celtics!! BEAT THE celtics!!

PLEASE HELP ME PROVIDE A HOMECOURT ADVANTAGE, WHEN THE SERIES GETS TO ATLANTA!!

WE NEED IT! GO HAWX AND BEAT ‘EM UP IF YOU HAVE TO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Horford Still Rox

April 20, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this

I AM DRUNK! I AM DRUNK!

By Samoa Joe

April 20, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

There is no quit!

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this

a doc,good to hear from u.i got three plays this season alone BK was vetoed on.#1 the firing of woody before the season.BK knows woody is destroying his creation.#2 the chills for calderon trade before the draft.toronto was all for it then,now no chance in hell.#3 how about the NC obsessed MJ wanting marv & our #11 for felton & the #8 pick (that was used on b wright then traded for jrich).could a made this move traded that pick for a kayman bmiller beindris,or put your big here.plus still acquire bibby.

By ray

April 20, 2008 3:48 AM | Link to this

Methinks that we have another ASG employee loose on our blog…

I think McGrady and Co. are headed for another first round exit, and it’s not Rick Adelman’s fault. The injury bug has hit at all the wrong times.

Terence Moore’s latest blog article is downright sick. His portrayal of Mike Woodson is way off base. I’ve heard of propaganda, but this is ridiculous. Mike Woodson speaks in positive terms because he has to. He’s a yes man because he has to be. The ASG is the group who ultimately gave him his first shot at being a head coach. They own his arse. But hopefully not for long.

As for Moore, he’s obviously trying to play yin to Shultz’s yang. Moore is full of it, how could he believe his own crap? Calling people who want Woodson gone “foolish”? Now obviously you don’t fire the guy right in the middle of the playoffs, but give me a break! What do you mean “those who want him gone sooner rather than later” are foolish? Okay, Terence. What’s your definition of “sooner” and “later”? What a complete waste of website space….

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 20, 2008 5:20 AM | Link to this

Moore’s column was just as idiotically positive as Schultz’s was idiotically negative. Sekou still provides the best and most unbiased basketball analysis on this website by a pretty wide margin.

Oh yeah, looks like Joe Johnson and company are catching on…

By **NATIVE SON**

April 20, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Did anyone read the story on Josh? Had a lot to do with the pride all true,” Atlantians” ( *Yeah! I know that looks wrong, but that’s my darn word *) feel about this town, and all our teams. Grits too!! For that matter. I’m sure that rings true for everybody who thinks their city is the greatest ever; but day, after day, after day, after day, some trannie plant wants to beat you down about every single thing that’s wrong. With the people, the nightlife, the teams we have, or just whatever. You say ” well if it is truly so bad, then why not leave?”. They say, all stupid like; ” Uhh, I like Atlanta”. Here I digress, but great story on J. Smith. Damn! Y’all done made me go n’ git all indigenous on ya’.PEACE from the NATIVE.

By richbrave

April 20, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

HORFORD ROX:

Springer’s on during the game? Oh, brown stuff!!

By SalimFan

April 20, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

Yeah Manny T, I was just going to say that the salary cap for next year is expected to be around 80 million. MOST TEAMS are alrerady screwed (Boston), but the hawks can sighn everyone on thei roster back and still have room to sign a quality big man and still have cash to spare.

By SalimFan

April 20, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

ray, there is no way that Marvin can live up to CP3’s playoff daybiew lol. It will be interesting to see how marvin shows up.

Jami$$ion, dawg, you’re hot and cold at the same time. Good points regardless. But I still wouldn’t push my luck with Isiah. Also I know i’m in the minority here but I like marvins game. Everybody can’t be the leading scorer on a team, and marvin does play TEAM ball really well. I thinkthat wii help us in the long run(e.g Detroit) as opposed to just one superstar (Houston, Cleveland).

By richbrave

April 20, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

ray:

Read that yesterday. Don’t you just love the fact that there’s no comments section to post in on T’Mo’s article?? Guess the AJC decided to be certain no one could dog him for that innane drivel he’s passed off as journalism.

By richbrave

April 20, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

SALIM FAN:

From what I’ve read here, I think the problem is coming up with monies already spent not the cap. Ando and others contend 50 million is more than the “brokes” can handle, let alone 80 MILLION.

By SalimFan

April 20, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Ohhh, So you mean that their extremely cheap? BAASG….what are we going to do with them.

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

SalimFan, salary cap for next season around $80 mil??? where did u get that from??? isn’t it about $55mil this season?? (sorry too lazy to look up. still early in SF…no coffee yet LOL) typically the cap moves about 3-5% a year with additional salary. i think your numbers are a bit off??!!! but maybe i’m way off!!!…coffee!!!!

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

my bad…8-10%/yr

By SalimFan

April 20, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Maybe it’s 60 mil. It’s been a while since I looked it up. I’m probably remembering it wrong.

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

coffee has done its’ thing!!!LOL cap for this year is $55.63. so i think you are right in that it’ll probably be around $60 mil next season!!!

can the HAWKS SHOCK the world tonite??? uuhhhh…….Sekou, good article on SMOOVE!!!

By doc

April 20, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

which cap, minimal, cap without penalty or the cap without penalty? folks, there is no cap except the budget that the owners come up with and the collective agreement insists that teams pay so there are no marlins, pirates, royals type pretenders at the nba level. if there wasnt there would be more sub-10 win teams than folks would know to do with. i guess they argue competitive balance but it also to guarantee the union that there is sufficient funds for the players to spread around, no? like a certain percentage of the income, right?

By doc

April 20, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

myk any fall out for the warriors not making it to the playoffs this year? baron gone?

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

DOC, how ‘bout this?? the ‘cap’ that says ALL THINGS REVOLVE around THIS (55.63mil) figure!!!;o) but i feel what cha sayin’ bro!!!

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

DOC, some have been callin’ for NELLIE’s head on a platter!!! some say that it says BARON will opt out this summer!!! NELLIE said ‘finally’ that he ‘has’ no problems with BD…that the cat was just havin’ a real bad game. and most could see that he was. the question still is…why didn’t he put him back in for the late run??? personally, i think whatever the reason was, only one of the two will return next season!!!

really hope the HAWKS show better that TOR is showin’ this 1st half. HAWKS have gotta match the intensity BOS will come out with!!’cause it’s gonna be stooooooopid sick come game time!!!!

By doc

April 20, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

fast, heavy and hard is what they will experience and that is just from the fans there. what do they say, speed kills? they are going to live it tonight and they had better be ready. it will be a real education for them. could look like deer in the headlights, just hope not.

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 20, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Loved that J-Smoove article. Native Son, the only word I know for people from ATL is ATLiens.

The salary cap is about $55 million this year so I’m guessing it will probably be about $58 million next year, but keep in mind that the luxury tax level is usually higher (last year it was $62 million). Regardless, Doc’s right — the only cap that matters is how much the owners are willing to spend. The NBA allows teams to go over the cap to keep their own players, it’s up to the ownership whether or not they are willing to do that.

By doc

April 20, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

yep, this summer is where the tread hits the road for the owners. time to pay up or shut up. we will see how true they are to their product by how much they spend no matter the spin they want to put on it. with quality players ready to move up the salary scale it will tell if they hover at the bottom of the salary scale as a team in comparison to teams already in the nba for playas. heh heh

By infamouskrs

April 20, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

absolutely LUV tha fact the Smash has come out and said..”THE HAWKS WILL SHOCK THA WORLD” ! this kid is true ATLANTA BLOOD ! there should be no other reasons than to REWARD his heart and his yearly progression~~!

WE HAVE TO GUARD THE THREES TONIGHT…..get physical (Solomn) down low (early Celtic foul trouble) and lettin’ Bibby RUN THE GAMEPLAN !

“SLICK” WOODY…..KNOW you’re role……Bibby is the team leader…..LET HIM DO HIS PEYTON TONIGHT….no huddle “coloring books” tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By terrell barron

April 20, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

So now we get to see how a BALD person looks, with his arms folded, and mouth wide open. lol!

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

A DOC DID U READ THE REASONS I GAVE YOU?A SALIM I’LL TAKE THAT AS A COMPLIMENT.MY COACHES SELECTION GOES MARK JACKSON ISAIAH KENNY SMITH STEVE SMITH HUBIE BROWN LARRY DREW(BK WANTED HIM TO REPLACE WOODY CAUSE HE WOULD A USED ALL OUR TALENT AS BK INTENDED AS LIKE RIO DEFENSIVE STOPPER SALIM SHARPSHOOTER ) RICK CARLISE NELLIE(CAUSE HIS TEAMS PLAY NO DEFENSE THATS WHY HE’S HERE).That’s my short list. What you think?

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

a name hardly ever mentioned…ALEX ENGLISH. asst w/TOR now but has paid his dues as an asst coach and in the DL. think he was with the HAWKS too??!!?? he would be a great mentor for JS too. both have those slooooowww releases on their jump shots!! but FLICK, as we call him in SC, could certainly help add to JS’ half court game!! but he’ll certainly get his chance as a HC soon!!!! just thought i’d throw his name out there too!!!

By Ronald

April 20, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

you know the Hawks player are trying to comvent to themself that they have a chance come on? the way they played in the regural season let us know don’t expect anything from the Hawks nothing but them making a fool of them self this is the worst team in all of sport that is a mess from coaches and GM to ownership and player, we are still have a lot of this like for Billy Knight for his wasting a good change to get a great point gaurd to a so player in Marvin William when they or if they get real of him then I’ll would have love for them but now I’ll never have any kind of filling for them

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

myk i remember alex used to ball with bernard king in washington.nice player. i can’t wait til tipoff. i myself myk just be tripping off people who wanna can BK.I remember missing the playoffs once in like a 15year span & drafting the worse players ever that never panout.The only decent pick was Augmon.marvin was the consensus number1 pick.sheldon was the most nba ready player available.so let’s say cp & dw the best in their class guess what we got marv at 2 but he is the 3rd bestplayer with upside

By jami$$ion

April 20, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

on players drafted alone bk is better than wash,tor,bos,nj,ny,indy,mia,charlotte,orlando,chi,mil,cle.joe dumars is the only gm who drafts better than Bk in the east.and nobody calls him out on that darko ish cause he was the consensus best after lebron.I know some of yall are going to throw out names like wade,but four years later what else has riley got?Be grateful we don’t still have babecock,or mj,riley,billy king,or bird(hasn’t picked a good player yet)chris mullin good gm,SA gm good,we need a HC

By **NATIVE SON**

April 20, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

TWO HOURS, and I’m pumped y’all. This will mos’ def top Golden State- Dallas, or even S. Fla. - Michigan, when the Hawks pull this off. Go Hawks !! In spite of Woody.( Or maybe Woody’s been saving up for the playoffs )LOL.PEACE

By mykhalc

April 20, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

jami, yeah i ain’t a BK hater. he definitely could have done somethings differently and better. only absolutely wrong/bad pick seems to be SHELDON. and personally, under THEUS i’ve gone out on a limb and said he’ll become a 10/6 cat if the minutes are there. we’ll see. but i’ll give ALPHA ANDO his props on some of his picks that differed from BK at the time. he made some nice calls as far back as 3.5 yrs. yeah, some of us been here that long!!! but someone said earlier, how different would THIS team be if COLLIER had not passed???

let’s hope the YOUNG GUNS show big tonite, regardless of outcome!!

By infamouskrs

April 20, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

with 3 and some change left in the 1st…Smoove makes a 1on1 block at the basket and proceeds to take the ball the length of the court for an easy lay in…..COAST 2 COAST…..

his reward….bench time..with ZAZA checkin’ in !

By Ken Strickland

April 21, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

What’s up my friends. I just got back from bidding farewell to another loved one. It’s rough getting old, but it certainly beats the alternative.

Now we get a chance to see if Woodson really has anything to offer as a HC. We know now that the Hawks aren’t afraid or in awe of Boston. Woodson has to dig down and come up with some way to overcome the following.

(1)Boston is bigger, taller, deeper more experienced and more talented.

(2)Boston has a balanced OFF, inside/outside, has excellent ball movement and executes all of its options well.

(3)They are #1 in team DEF, and uses their BIGS to protect the basket.

Pressuring full court takes additional time off the clock, should create some steals, which increases our scoring opportunities, and should create some deflections, which takes even more time off the clock. Taking time off the clock will limit their ball movement and reduce their half court options. It also takes away some of their penetration and dish options.

Offensively, we need to beat Perkins and KG down the court before they get into position to protect the basket. KG isn’t slow, but it would tire him out some and possibly reduce some of his OFF effectiveness.

Bottom line, we’re quicker and more athletic, and we have to take Boston out of their precision OFF/DEF. So we should increase the tempo and turn this into a scrambling type of gm. Their bench is slow and not very athletic, so this style would give our bench an advantage against theirs. WHAT DO YOU GUYS AND GALS THINK?

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November 13, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this

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November 13, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this

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