Hawks

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this

Sekou, your invitation to the Craig Claxton retirement party is in the mail.

If ASG said, “Mr. Smith, you know this team better than we do. Who should we hire as GM?”, who would YOU hire as GM?!

Stay away from the CAK

By richbrave

May 11, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

SEKOU:

Thanks for the new blog.

By #21=Top 50,1stBallot

May 11, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

In addition to an estute basketball acumen, something our antecedant GM may or may not have possessed, I hope the all chief indian tribe of the BASG seeks out someone a bit more gregarious and amiable toward the media and general public. They have to see that part of the folly of the carmudgeonous BK was that by not engraciating himself to the city/fans he could not garner any real fan support. This may sound trivial but I assure you generating excitement (re: $ in ticket sales, requests for appearances, merchandising) is most assuridly part of an entertainers job description (even in the front office). This way, in lieu of having an actual resume of success, you can at least invigorate the community to support the team by not being so smug as to say “I know more than everyone else”.

That said I have to agree that while a hasty decision may not be what is needed, a timely one is definately in order. Current player evaluations, coaching evaluations, prospect (while I know we dont have a pick, still gotta do homework), etc take time and everyday we wait, the hour glass empties a bit more. Getting rid of BK (which I think he knew we would) way a step in the right direction. The more decisions we make like this (re: bye, bye Woody) the more likely we are to continue to….

RISE UP

By Sekou K. Smith

May 11, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

Great question Horford Rox,

I don’t know who I would hire, because I’m not sure the guys I would want for the job want the job. But two guys on the list of six circulated earlier this week would get the first calls. I’d say more but I don’t want to outkick my coverage …

By Matt

May 11, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

If the ASG people hire Scott Perry, all is forgiven.

If they hire Billy King, I’ll go cry in a corner for 2 months.

By Harry Hawk

May 11, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

I think we should ask Mike Woodson who he wants. If he likes Billy King, then that’s the guy we need. After all, Woodson should really be the guy pulling the strings, right?

(shoots self)

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

Sekou you’re not sure the guys you want for the job want the job,

or is it that they don’t want it known they want the job, but THEY WANT THE JOB?! (I have just confused myslef).

I’m guessing you’re no fan of the other BK? One down, 23 options to go!

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this

Look at that. I’m so confused, I’m lucky to spell confused. I can’t even spell “myself!”

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

RIP, Harry Hawk. You will be sorely missed!

By Najeh Davenpoop

May 11, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

I have a hard time trusting the D.A.S.G. with such a decision. I’d prefer the Hawks hire a guy from a successful organization, but then again, that hasn’t quite worked out so well so far for the Falcons.

Harry Hawk’s post cracks me up…

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this

Sekou, D’Antoni seems to be leveraging himself toward a nice PAY RAISE (in Phx) or a sweet PAY DAY in either NY, Chi, or…….ATL?!

He could be one of the dudes that “wants the job, but doesn’t want it known he wants the job.”

Otherwise, the national sports network would be broadcasting his interest in ATL as well as the other two.

Wouldn’t More Interest = More Leverage? Maybe he doesn’t want the job, but doesn’t want it known he wants the job. What?!

I quit.

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Najeh, you did say Falcons right? I think I know who you’re talking about, but I’m not sure.

Doesn’t drmaryb play for them?

By atlantaspiritsucks

May 11, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Maybe they don’t want the job because the Gearons act like little kids. Asking everybody in the league their opinions on personnel decisions and the only reason they like Woodson is because he listens to all of their bs. Gearon really wants to run the team. Don’t look for a big name GM. Someone needs to ask them how many trades didn’t get done because of them. No one finds it interesting that BK walked away. He didn’t get fired he said I have had enough of this circus.

By JJ

May 11, 2008 2:11 AM | Link to this

I’m guessing whoever is hired as GM is stuck with Woodson as his coach like it or not since the new guy won’t start until July 1. It’d be way late in the game at that point to start a coaching search that would actually yield an obviously better candidate than Woodson.

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

See how confused I am. Can’t even tell the difference between coaches and GMs. Or could a coach, like D’Antoni also want to serve as GM?

I QUIT!

By Horford Rox

May 11, 2008 2:22 AM | Link to this

I’m calling it a day, so I can save whatever credibility I haven’t destroyed with my previous posts.

D’Antoni has signed on to be HC of Knix. (MY bad).

I really do quit…like for real!

By Malone

May 11, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this

D’Antoni gone to the Knicks.

We MUST be worried about the non-playoff teams in the East. We have to improve or they’ll pass us.

By Sekou K. Smith

May 11, 2008 2:39 AM | Link to this

Now I’m confused. Ha. I have guys I like, guys I think would be great for the job. What I don’t know yet, for sure, is if they are as interested in the job as I am in them filling the job.

By cp

May 11, 2008 2:46 AM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop im guessing you really disliked the Falcons draft lmao.. I dont blame you. A lot of people are putting their faith in the new gm. I have the wait and see approach with him. He was a scout so he never really made a decision on who to draft but thats another story..

I honestly have no faith in this ownership. Im hoping for the best but so far they have showed me nothing.. I really wish we could have one owner with deep pockets who hired smart basketball people and not keep guys around because they are nice.. I want this team taking steps foward not back.

By The Ghost of Harry Hawk

May 11, 2008 2:46 AM | Link to this

There is no clear choice. Not even from up here. I should have invited Horford Rox. Sounds like he has lost his mind.

By Beck

May 11, 2008 2:50 AM | Link to this

Sekou, Is Woody keeping his job or what?

By mykhalc

May 11, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this

MEADOWLARK LEMON for GM!!!

By mykhalc

May 11, 2008 3:01 AM | Link to this

nah, can’t wish that on a brotha that has done the good he’s done in the bball world!!! i withdraw his name!!!

By Cousin Cledus

May 11, 2008 3:02 AM | Link to this

top of a mornin to ya, fellers. i thank tha hawks should hire this josh smith feller. he might be a lil bit confuseded, but at least he nose it. and josh, yoo have some intrestin ideas. keep it up. i likes this blog. mama has to reed and tipe for me, though.

gotta run, mama needs more pawl mawls.

By Cousin Floyd

May 11, 2008 3:05 AM | Link to this

I like lemons.

By mykhalc

May 11, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this

$24 million joke…D’ANTONI to the KNICKS!!! let’s see if they can blow up that roster with the speed, the zeal, the professionalism, the no deal is a bad deal if it gets ‘em off the books knowledge that BK delivered for the HAWKS!!!

CHRIS ROCK for GM!!!

By Cousin Cledus

May 11, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this

Floid shut up an go watch Rasslin!

By Cousin Floyd

May 11, 2008 3:15 AM | Link to this

I dont like rocks.

By Cousin Cledus

May 11, 2008 3:20 AM | Link to this

Floid its like paw paw seys, yoo can send a man to tha mune but yoo cant make him eet rocks. now pleese shut up.

By Astro Joe

May 11, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

To paraphrase ” all you can ask is that they get it right this time”. Sekou, when has this ownership group made a hiring decision on a GM or head coach with either franchise? I’m confused by the term “this time”, as it insinuates they have done this before. Waddell, BK, Woody and Hartley I believe were all inherited. This is the most important hire of this ownership’s tenure. I have NO condifence that htey will get this right. At this point, I am only mildly interested.

Meanwhile, remarkably, Waddell may end up being the boss of both the Hawks and Thrashers after being resoundly criticized for his inability to build any resemblance of a team with a future. He has already moved into Bernie Mullen’s old office and appears ready to accept the title of President of the ASG.

To me, we’re going from bad to worse.

By Chris

May 11, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

Any chance at all we could get someone from Detroit like Milwaukee did? ANY of Joe Dumar’s people would be a god-send to us!!!!

By nique'stheman

May 11, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

DOM DOM DOM DOM DOMA: Dominique!

By richbrave

May 11, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

SEKOU:

Be sure the GM is compatable with the ASG on his left hand and the Coach on his right. Unless all three componants are working together toward a common goal and with a defined system in place nothing much thats positive is going to happen.

That goal has to come from the ASG. So far, I can’t see much consensus amongst the ownership. Have they set out any parameters that YOU can see.?? IF SO, is the entire ownership AGREED.

SEKOU, you know this town is a gold-mine. If I had my money tied up here, I would sure as he— demand a stable course of action. Of course, I would do it alone. You don’t need a democracy to make money. You need a dictatorship. Believe me, if I had that kind of green, I would kick them all out. They’re too used to their democracy to keep as partners. ANDO is right on the button about finding a BELKIN replacement.

By ignition

May 11, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Well lets hope the do better than the Falcons… Oh well they all ready have by not getting dissed in public.. Lets cheer the only team I feel has a REAL good future in this city .. GO HAWKS

By longtimehawkfans2

May 11, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

How about looking at some former players as GM. What about Steve Smith. Alan Henderson, or a combo? Tyrone Corbin as coach. All 3 really smart guys.

By honest_abe

May 11, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

i trust the hawks will hire the least qualified person for the job. its not like the person will have any power anyways. he won’t be able to hire his own coach and with wannabe gm owner gearon jr, he’ll most likely just be a figurehead.

just like usual poop for brains comes to some kind of ridiculous conclusion. to crap on the falcons and the new gm when they haven’t even a single game yet. you really are an idiot. so after one draft you’re ready to label dimitroff a disaster. ha. funny stuff.

By Matt

May 11, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Anyone seen the “Zaza = Rocky” video up on the Hawks BasketBlog? Pretty awesome. Here’s the link:

http://hawks.portspaces.com/post/hawksbasketblog/zaza_rocky.html

There’s nothing worthy of note after the 2:00 mark in the video, thought.

By Don!

May 11, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

The first question for any potential GM is asking if they would keep Woody. If their answer is ‘Yes’, then the interview is over.

Of course, my first choice is Steve Smith — and not because he’s a former Hawk. It’s because he knows a heck of a lot more than I imagined about how an NBA franchise should be run. In that regard, he reminds me of Joe Dumars a lot.

Anyway, can we fire Woody now? Besides, I think a new GM would likely want to bring in their coach as opposed to being stuck with a choice made by another GM.

Later,

Don!

By BosnianBaller

May 11, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

It has to be Steve Smith.He knows the team inside out.I don’t want some suit from utah or portland

By Ben

May 11, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

this blog sucked. can we get a real update about GM’s?

quit beating around the bush every blog

jesus

By Harpie

May 11, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

WOODSON MUST GO!!!!!!!!!

By Matt

May 11, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

It has to be Steve Smith.He knows the team inside out.I don’t want some suit from utah or portland

Yeah, those “suits” really do a horrible job of running a team. Guys like Donnie Walsh, RC Buford, and Kevin O’Connor have all been horrible as GMs. And great All-Star players like Isaiah Thomas, Kevin McHale, Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor…and Billy Knight…have all been awesome. And Dominique sure proved his mettle one he called Marvin a once-in-a-decade player. I actually can only think of two players - Dumars and West - who’ve been successful as GMs. Smitty might make a good coach, but I do NOT want him as GM.

I want a suit. I want someone who knows how to make DEALS. I want someone who knows what strings to pull and what buttons to push with agents and opposing GMs. Maybe Smitty has all that, but I’d rather not risk it. If we hire Smitty for something, make it something on the sideline.

Don’t give me another former player who “knows talent” but doesn’t know what the right price to pay for talent is. Give me Scott Perry (AGM of the Pistons) or Dennis Lindsey (AGM of the Spurs). Failing that, I wouldn’t mind another “suit” from Utah or Portland. The Utah guys orchestrated the Boozer signing and the Deron Williams draft day trade. I think that duo is going to win a title in the next 3 years. The Portland crew made the trades that netted Aldridge and Roy in the same draft - name me any other team that managed to get the two best players in a draft. With Oden coming back and Outlaw coming off the bench, that team is going to be a beast in the West for years to come.

So yeah, PLEASE get me a “suit” like that.

By infamousrks

May 11, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this

am i the only one that that doesn’t want to see a “re-tread” take the position? what’s wrong with giving a “diamond in the rough” a chance to prove himself?

very cheap (BS-ASG prefers) and it wouldn’t be hard to let the guy go if doesn’t work out in the first couple of years! this is what we’re used to anyway….why not give the “little guy” a shot ?

By ronald

May 11, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

well I throught that I’ll will see a chance to see the Hawks and thrasher be good but not so good by

By infamousrks

May 11, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

one other question….Sekou, has there been any “progress” in the owner’s divorce to report on? is there any important dates coming up that may lead to a possible timely resolution?

inquiring minds wanna know !

By infamousrks

May 11, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

also….breaking information from “today’s evening news crew”:

http://fc01.deviantart.com/fs13/f/2007/077/2/e/AnimatorvsAnimationby_alanbecker.swf

Sekou’s recent activity has been captured in “exclusive” video!

By Harry Hawk

May 11, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

Okay. I’m alive.

I see that my ghost typed something. I actually thought about typing something as my “ghost,” but I had to go to bed. I’m glad someone else took up the mantle.

By terrell barron

May 11, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Fire Woody, hire Mark Jackson!

By infamousrks

May 11, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

gotta work on that damn link above^….my bad i’ll have to check with “the today’s newscrew”……..

By infamousrks

May 11, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

http://fc01.deviantart.com/fs13/f/2007/077/2/e/AnimatorvsAnimationby_alanbecker.swf

let’s see if this video feed is any better…………….

By Sautee

May 11, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Matt

That’s my favorite post ever by you, bud.

Hope you did well on the test.

peace

By Ryder

May 11, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Sekou wouldn’t Woodson have to have some type of input as to who the new GM would be?

It’s obvious that the ASG is going to keep Woodson for the long haul, so they would want to make sure that he gets along with the new GM.

What about philosophy? It’s obvious by looking at this roster that Atlanta is built for an up tempo offense, although Woodson prefers to run a half court offense. What if this GM agrees with Woodson? They may look to bring in a big to play the 4, which means something may need to be done with Josh Smith…

…speaking of Smith he is a restricted free agent July 1, same day BK is officially gone. The same day teams around the league can negotiate contracts. What if this GM search extends late into the summer? It’s not as if Atlanta’s a prime spot due to a shaky owner’s situation.

So many questions but i’m not sure even if the ASG has any answers.

By doc

May 11, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

matt concur and said the same earlier but not in the elegant detail you did.

get your health in order dude.

By hawk fan in new orleans

May 11, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Swish! Steeeeeeeeeve Smith - for GM. Will the incompetent ASG give us hope by cutting ties with this woody guy though?

By FRANK

May 11, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

SEKOU NEWS OUT OF ISREAL SAYS WE SIGNED DAVID ANDERSON. YOU HEAR ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?

By Ryder

May 11, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

One caveat: when I mentioned Atlanta’s not a prime spot I didn’t mean the roster, which I think would’ve been perfect for D’Antoni’s system. He’s going to flame out in NY and some other coach will benefit come 2010.

The problem is that the GM will become a yes man to Gearon, since they’ll obviously have to agree with having Woodson as their coach, a lose-lose proposition all the way.

By MannyT

May 11, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Oh heck, let me be contrary to my normal thoughts. Those thoughts would say my head feels like it’s about to explode. Not sure if it’s allergies or thinking about the ASG and how much they can change things this summer based on hoops & hockey hires.

Matt U Da Man…bring me a GM that is a smart suited, never played the game at the highest level, but I love it wizard.

Nowdays it seems like the teams in most sports that are making a big difference are going for the eggheads that hone in on the business of sports. I’m not trying to hate on the average retired athlete, but how much do they learn about the business. I saw a story the other day about Magic Johnson and I’m convinced he’s the exception—learning about business while playing the game. Not recommending him for GM, but he has a plan on making business work.

If all these ASG guys were smart enough to make big bucks, they should apply their strengths to finding a new GM. Hopefully in their own odd, but successful way.

We need some excellent CRAP!

By MannyT

May 11, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

drmaryb The answer to your inquiry on the prior blog is Raja Bell. I recall hearing recently that he is getting lot’s of recognition as a hottie on internet polls and TV commentary.

…and congrats on the football win. Looks like the D has stepped up the past 2 weeks.

ray Never wrote jingles, but I was always a fan of Weird Al Yankovic

Sekou bloggers seems to be in a panic about you last week. In the event that you want to be found I’d suggest you keep a safe deposit box with an old Michigan jersey/t-shirt and a bottle of your unique Blog Z essence, Swagger. In an emergency, they send a bloodhound to the box and you should be located quickly ;-)

To support the new local team, I’ll be at opening night for the Atlanta Dream May 23rd. Hope to see some of y’all there.

Looking for some good CRAP.

By Southern Sooner

May 12, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this

The way the fans have hung Chris Paul around BK’s neck like a bowling ball, we should find someone that, on record, had CP3 as the number one pick overall.

By Ben

May 12, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

Rumor or not but they are saying we signed David Andersen. They have reached a preliminary agreement for him to play here next year. Pray that it is true.

By infamouskrs

May 12, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

been looking around on the web…it’s seems there really might be some truth to the signing (finally) !

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyPw2G2WPsM

this what we’ve got to look forward too……

By ILL-logical

May 12, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Re current roster:

A possible move that the incoming GM could consider would be signing current Laker Chris Mimm to a mid level exception pending how the Lakers resolve their center position surplus. With Bynum and DJ Mbenga on the roster , his playing time is going to limited. A 7 footer and over 260 ilbs; can(or could) run the floor,score and block shots. But -and how can I say this -he brings a different “flavor” to the team. IJS.

By Astro Joe

May 12, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

ILL-logical, I made the same suggestion last summer about Mihm and Doc was correct to point to his long history of injuries. Did Mihm play at all this past season? I’m guessing that he has missed at least 75% of the games the last 2 seasons.

While David Andersen does not appear to be a shotblocker, he does seem to be a guy willing to bang and evidently is effective on the perimeter. If Zaza maintains his playoff form and Andersen can make the adjustment to the NBA, then we may have a reasonably cheap 2-headed answer for the center position.

By Melvin

May 12, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Is credit deserve? Here comes several if questions. If David Anderson sign with the Hawks and prove to be a legimate NBA player. If Marvin and Acie improve to the point that they meet/exceed their predraft expectations/hype. If the Hawks resign JSmoove and JChill and win more than 45 games next season. Should we give some credit to the architect. Billy Knight?????

By ILL-logical

May 12, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Astro: Good points ;I’m just hoping for some creativity from this franchise because it is now the only atlanta team that offers any resonable hope for winning big in the immediate future. PS. I am very afaid of any thoughts that involve ZaZa and a major role with this team: nice kid but must have left his heart and defense in SF.

By Some Sense

May 12, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

If Woodson stays, and I’m not opposed to that, then we can’t have a traditional GM since we can’t force a coach on a GM. Once again I suggest that Mike hire himself as GM and add a strong player personnel guy who would be de facto GM.

By doc

May 12, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

i have a feeling the same thing is gong to occur with bk as his last stop where he was replaced by west . west remember kept the coach until one third of the season showed bk doesnt know his coaches and hired hubie who came in and the next three seasons were 50 win seasons. fratello having his control issues and gasol going down along with a shift in owner desire to spend money took that team down.

the probability that the same thing happens here is high, i just dont have confidence in a rookie coach managing a rookie team surrounded by obviously rookie owners with a potential president coming from an organization that has failed miserably in the thrashers who again was a rookie gm. it is again the perfect storm and only luck like last years draft will avoid.

scary equation for failure. see matt’s submission above please before hirin,g BASG.

By I.MUS WRITE

May 12, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Gm- Hire the guy from the Spurs, just look at their success the past 10 years ,nuff said

Coach- hire Avery Johnson or Del Harris

Players- With David Anderson coming over -I say we waive or trade ZAZA and offer Diop the MLE…. we would be set a center- A long defensive type 7footer who blocks shots and a pick and pop type center in Anderson

Sign the Joshes immediately-

Im stuck on Marvin…. i want to get rid of this guy but actually he is steadily improving every year….. dont wanna throw him away -then he averages 19pts next year…….. If we dont keep him I say trade him along with ZAZA for a veteran and a draft pick

Marvin/Zaza for Barbosa/ #15 pick-

I really want a new coach who will give Acie and Soloman more minutes and get a solid offense and defensive philosophy going.

Keep our core and build on that

Bibby,AC,JJ,JS,JC,Horford……Diop,Anderson,Barbosa???, draft pick-B.Lopez

By I.MUS WRITE

May 12, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

The NFL Draft….. Atleast im not the only one disappointed….. I think Ryan was the right pick but the 2 second rounders we gave up to get Baker -bites azz man…….

Baker better be all world….. I would have kept all 3 2nd rounders . I think Anthony Collins -Kansas and Carl Nicks-Nebraskea will be better tackles anyway………… NO Line Help at all-Jezus I hope Ryan can run because he may be running all season…… today I read the paper to check on minicamp and we have the same ol O Line -Forney,Mcclure,clabo…. come on now how dissappointing is that.

Like the Lofton,Douglas picks and KB from Montana- if u got drafted out of montana u have to be good- saw clips of him (Kroy B) the guy plays with an attitude……. wouldnt be suprised if he plays alot this year ……………….

By grammarman

May 12, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

You misspelled “successors,” bro!

By MannyT

May 12, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

I.MUS Why do you have to move Zaza? If he can have some of that playoff intensity he’ll be ok. Besides, he is going into his contract year. Most pros don’t dog it when they are playing for that next contract.

doc don’t give into the dark side yet. It’s only May. Hopefully some of the loud playoff fans come back. I need you or jhan to become that guy in DC that used to give all the big stars grief before they ran him off. I still remember a picture of him yelling at (Chicago) Michael Jordan about something from his book.

While the ASG are likely to mess up, there is still a chance they double screw up and things come out better.

Chris Mihm has a player option for the 2008-09 season or he can walk to free agency at the end of this season. He’s only played in 4 games since Christmas. You are correct to question his health.

No PAIN, bring me some good CRAP, like that David Anderson news out of Israel.

By infamouskrs

May 12, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

short side-note today…..is it just me or does anyone else think “JSMASH” was ROBBED of making either 1st or 2nd team all-defensive squads? i thought he was a better choice than Shane Battier! first AL minus the “ROY” trophy..now this!

still….no national respect! we’ll have to see if those playoff games, at least, get the fellas some prime-time games next year. i know, i know,….i won’t hold me breath……

By Sekou K. Smith

May 12, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Didn’t mean to stick that apostrophe on successors. Thanks grammarman.

Saw one question above about Woody having some say in who the next GM is … um, NO! The GM needs to have some say about who will coach the team, not the other way around.

Per David Andersen, the Hawks planned all along to bring him over for the start of the 2008-09 season. Without a first or second round draft pick, Andersen fills that space (on the roster, payroll, etc.). They do have come to terms with Andersen but don’t have to rush to sign him. They need him in camp for sure, though, unless the new GM has something up his sleeve to add some other big man to the mix.

On the pending divorce between the owners, NBA Commish David Stern told us during the playoff run that a decision was due in February - a surprising revelation to most of us since we hadn’t heard any updates before that.

By I.MUS WRITE

May 12, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

Mannt T- I hear what u r saying but, we both know thaT ZaZa wont show next year like he did in the playoffs. I think ZAZA grade is a D for the season and C+ for the playoffs. I mentioned trading him because if we can get Diop and Anderson -when is he gonna play….. right now i would prefer Solomon……. atleast I know Solomon will rebound,block sum shots and go hard when given the time…………. ZAZA is a flopper period -he stanks in my opinion

By doc

May 12, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

manny t just pointing out the obvious dude. it is in the light for all to see except our fearless owners. i dearly would like to see a trend to suggest change in philosophy but they continue to jettison folks and replace them with under performers or not replace the under performers at all.

as far as being the thorn in the side like the guy in dc i can do that with the refs primarily if close to the action to send out the needle. i desire to get along with folks that are bigger than i; sometimes in the heat of it all forget to maintain that sensibility witt the players. as a bench jockey in college as a starting pitcher i had to fill a role when i wasnt playing. i found that i had a very strong voice and used it accordingly.

now the double negative to get a positive is a new way of praying with this group thus far. maybe that will work since little to date has.

imus one cant just get rid of folks like they do in football without paying the guy. if i am paying someone i want to get something in return even if it is to pick up jocks after practice. just dont think life in the nba is that simple so look for another solution.

tell me korver wouldnt have looked good in a hawks uni say for a trade with philly for marvin back in february before the jaz got a hold of him. think if we had done that, which i suggested, we would have ended up in the playoffs and had money to spend this summer. yep, just a stupid unsophisticated fan, that i am.

By infamouskrs

May 12, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

THANKS SEKOU…..looking forward to summer updates on what the boys will be doing during the off-seasons!

also anxious to know if Salim has already “reserved” his U-Haul truck?

this one is on Woody !

i’d luv for him to stay….Craig Hodges, Del Curry and Robert Horry weren’t (or aren’t) the best ball-handlers in the pros…but their “downtown” shots were (or are) always deadly. he just needs a coach!

By Author

May 12, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

There have been two and only two players in the history of the entire league who were under 6’4 and built solid careers on the ability to knock down threes and nothing else - Hodges and Steve Kerr. Salim is great from the outside and has very nice form, but Kerr and Hodges had hall of fame level form - Salim isn’t that good. He’s also an inch shorter than Hodges and 2 inches shorter than Kerr. Also, the league has changed a LOT since the days where Hodges and Kerr made their living.

There are half a dozen other players in the league who shoot the trey just as well as Salim, and who are at least 3 or 4 inches taller.

Salim was definitely misused, and he’ll probably find a spot on some team next year. But dude’s much close to Trajan Langdon than Hodges, Kerr, or Curry.

By Najeh Davenpoop

May 12, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if J-Smoove is a better man to man defender than Battier (obviously he’s a better interior help defender) but I think it’s a little fishy that a guy who finishes 6th in the Defensive Player of the Year voting doesn’t make the first- or second-team All Defense… which basically is saying he’s not one of the top ten defenders in the league. Yeah, something doesn’t quite add up.

By Najeh Davenpoop

May 12, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

From what I’ve seen of David Andersen (not much, I’ll admit) I like his game, but I kinda doubt he’s big enough or strong enough to be a PF/C in this league. He seems better suited to being a SF/PF to me. Then again there’s not much on Youtube of him other than clips of him dunking, so I don’t really know. But it would be nice if he could be the tough guy/interior presence/rebounder that Zaza is supposed to be.

By infamouskrs

May 12, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

ouch….this guy comes out like a “Za-Za uppercut” ! as far as an entire body of work is concerned..he isn’t even close to the 3 i used as examples. the comparison (didn’t know i had to explain it in depth) was used only to show a similarity in how they’re skills were used to benefit the team (role players), that’s it ! no height stats, that’s it!

you also use the words “hall of fame level”…are you kidding me?

and give the kid some credit (in his short amount of time in the NBA)….he has had a few games (when given a shot) that he’s lite up the scoreboard!

By Mel

May 12, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

Found this on DraftExpress earlier; they scouted the Hawks…here’s what they said about Marvin

“Marvin Williams

Overview: A blossoming young forward who is starting to live up to the potential that made him a top-2 selection. One of the top players in the HS class of 2004. Won the NCAA title at North Carolina in 2005 under Roy Williams. Has solid athleticism to go with good size. Still has room to add weight to his frame. Starting to turn the corner, and appears to be working hard to improve his game. Struggled initially to find a position on the floor and did not have the aggressiveness you would expect from a player drafted so high. Worked through that and appears to be on the verge of becoming the special player many thought he would be.

Offense: Has improved his jump shot significantly since entering the League. Shoots no-dribble jumpers in two-thirds of his spot-up situations; a telling sign of where he is most comfortable at this point. Gets most of his other touches from one-on-one dribble drives and in transition, but seems extremely content hoisting shots from the perimeter when defenders give him space. Able to shoot an above average percentage on mechanics alone. Kicks his legs from time to time when in rhythm, which makes him look less fluid. Could stand to take that out of his game and improve his footwork. Needs to improve both his consistency and aggressiveness to reach his potential. Asked to post up periodically. Shows some decent moves down low. Tends to avoid turning to the baseline when posted up on the right side, but shows the ability to score over both shoulders at a decent clip from the left block. Doesn’t crash the glass as hard as he should given his athleticism. His future remains on the perimeter, and he needs to improve his ball-handling skills and range in order to take advantage of his physical assets. Wouldn’t hurt him to cut down on his turnovers and look to assert himself off the dribble more frequently either. Has shown the ability to get to the line at a high rate. His ability to shoot a good percentage will make his development as a slasher that much more worthwhile.

Defense: A tweener? Doesn’t translate his physical talents to the defensive end as well he translates them to the offensive end. Has a tough time defending the post. Is susceptible to bigger more experienced post players. Can make an impact defending the perimeter. Ability to contest shots on the perimeter, coupled with the fact that he doesn’t take a lot of risks shows how solid a defender he is. A little bit too upright in his stance, which makes it tough for him to stay in front of quicker small forwards. Commits some unnecessary fouls, but that shouldn’t be a problem as he acclimates to his competition. Rebounds the ball at a good rate. “

By Macaroni Tony

May 12, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

JS and the Hawks robbed again. Come on man how many block shots and steals do a person have to have just to get some attention. This man is a shot changer under the whole and a pretty good defender. Robbed, robbed, ROBBED

By Author

May 12, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

Um…ok. Do you really honestly think that Josh Smith is a better defender than Bowen, Duncan, Garnett, Battier, or Prince? If so, I’ve got some prime beachfront property I’d like to sell you.

Josh Smith blocks shots. He doesn’t do ANYTHING as a man-up defender. He’s always looking for the blocked shot, which leads him to make two big mistakes - 1) when his man has the ball, he’ll bite on a pump fake and get hit with a foul; 2) when he’s playing help defense, he’ll leave his man too early to go stop the guy with the ball…which often leads to his man being left wide open under the basket for a dunk or layup.

His “defensive ability” is just his athleticism. He still hasn’t learned when to NOT look for the block, and you kinda need that before you can be considered a good defender.

By Author

May 12, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

We have been robbed twice, though - once when Al didn’t win ROY and again when JJ wasn’t named to the All-NBA Third Team over Manu.

By infamousrks

May 12, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith “changed” games with his defense, period! players would always think twice about taking it to rack when Smoove was on the prowl.

the sad part about the voting is that it was done by a panel of coaches!

just ask Dwight Howard how bad he wants him as a teammate! he understands that with another DOMINANT shot blocker next to him….they’ve created a massive froncourt wall that the NBA wouldn’t wanna see! imagine a similar Smith/Artest combo…scarey!

that’s all i’m saying…JOSH DOES IT ALL ON HIS OWN ! tell me how many other guys bring that kinda fear, as a forward, every night!

By Author

May 12, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Uh….Bowen, Duncan, Garnett, Big Ben, Battier, Artest.

By Ryder

May 12, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Sekou what if the new GM doesn’t want Woody as his coach, knowing the ASG is firmly behind him to remain as the coach? That’s a problem right off the bat! So i’m sure whomever they hire he and Woodson will have to get along.

I don’t think Andersen will be much of a C in this league, but at least he will be another body who can play the 4 if needed.

I’m a bit surprised that Smith wasn’t voted to the all-defensive team, even if he was sixth in the voting for defensive player of the year.

Even though he’s ten times better than Shane “I’ll take the charge since I can’t play D” Battier. Smith is also much better on defense than Bruce “must play dirty when i’ve been beaten” Bowen. Astro Joe you are usually on the money with your posts, but this time I don’t know what games you’ve been watching. Those guys have been abused the entire postseason. Go back to the Utah series to watch how Battier got ripped by Brewer, AK-47, and Harpring on the wing.

That said, there’s not one team in the NBA who wouldn’t want Josh Smith playing on their squad.

By infamousrks

May 12, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

on his OWN…meaning Duncan w/Bowen being on the same 1st team is excluded.

same applies to (without the 1st team honors) Battier/Ming….Big Ben is a ghost of what he was in Detroit and now with no help in Cleveland he has really shown why he was an undrafted rookie….

that leaves you with 2….Garnett and Artest ! i’ll give you those “TWO” PLAYERS who might be considered NBA GOAL SARAN-WRAP type players (seals the lid)!

who’s a better argument? Smith, Battier, or Artest (for the year)?

By Ken Strickland

May 12, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Who they hire isn’t nearly as important to me as what he’ll do after he’s hired. Whoever they choose will have my support if he doesn’t commit to resigning Woodson. Right now, who we have as HC is far more vital to our team than who we have as our GM.

The resigning of our 3 RFA’s is a no brainer and the decision won’t be up to the new GM. It’ll be based on whether the SAASG will commit the resources necessary to get it done, period.

Picture the following:

(1)If we don’t resign our RFA’s, who will start and who will be our key 6th man? Without Chills, who would Woodson turn to?

(2)Consider Woodson’s total lack of trust in his current bench players, except Chills and Zaza. Now, consider his refusal to develop these players individually or a bench. How could anyone expect him to trust any of these players as perminant starters, which he’d likely have to do if our RFA’s go unsigned?

(3)If the SAASG is unwilling to pony up the money needed to resign its RFA’s, how can they be expected to spend the money necessary to sign comparable FA replacements. Remember, we don’t have any 1st and 2nd rd picks.

The only solution other than resigning our RFA’s would be sign and trades. We could pick up the big center we need and move Horford to PF. Depending on who we acquired, JSmith’s rebounding, and to some extent his DEF, could be replaced but not his scoring. Without Chills we lose so much excellence, versatility, steadiness, consistency, DEF and inside play. And I guarantee all of you that without Chills and Smith Woodson will seize the opportunity to walk the ball up and play his beloved halfcourt OFF exclusively.

When we played the Celtics in Atlanta, the inspiration and energy the players got from the hometown fans caused them to literally run the ball down Boston’s throat. But when we played them in Boston, Woodson slowed the gm down and and went half court. And without the motivating and energy from the hometown fans, we were blown out each time.

HOW CAN THE SAASG BE STUPID ENOUGH TO THINK THEY CAN BUILD A QUALITY TEAM THROUGH THE DRAFT WHEN THEY INSIST ON RETAINING A HC THAT HAS CONSISTENTLY DEMONSTRATED HIS DISDANE FOR INEXPERIENCED PLAYERS AND DOESN’T RELATE WELL WITH YOUTH?

By Matt

May 12, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

Infamousrks, you were doing so well until you said that Duncan, Bowen, and Battier somehow don’t count because there are other good defenders on the team. And the Celtics have a TON of great defenders (Perkins, Pierce, Rondo, Posey, and Brown are all excellent defenders), so Garnett was hardly doing it alone either. But that obviously doesn’t take away from the fact that Garnett is an amazing defender - and the same is true of Bowen, Duncan, and Battier. You should have quit while you were ahead.

And I’m sorry, but what the HELL were you talking about with Ben Wallace? The Cleveland defense was outstanding down the stretch and has been even better in the playoffs. Besides, being the “ghost” of your former self (which is an exaggeration to begin with) is hardly an insult when your former self is a 4-time DPOTY! The Cavs traded to get him for a good reason, and I think 90% of this blog would trade for him in a heartbeat if the opportunity arose and the price tag didn’t include Horford, Smoove, or JJ. The dude is still a beast in the lane, and anyone who says otherwise frankly hasn’t watched him play lately.

Also, you don’t give nearly enough credit to Childress, JJ, and Horford who are all very good on-ball defenders. In fact, I’d argue that they’re all better on-ball defenders than Smith, though Smith obviously is an outstanding help defender - one of the best in the league, I’d say.

But Smith hardly changes entire offensive game plans on his own. Trust me, people are not more afraid of taking it to the hole with Smith there than they are with Garnett, Duncan, Shaq, Camby, Rasheed, Big Ben, or Superman there.

Smith is good, but he’s not that good - at least not yet.

So in summary…you should have quit while you were ahead.

By MannyT

May 13, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this

Ken BRINGING THE PAIN, PAIN, PAIN. You go guy!

All that said, I am accepting the fact that Woody stays and BK is gone. Given those facts, I almost cannot believe what I write, but Woody should be involved in the GM selection process.

Yup, he should have some input into the process, as should JJ. They definitely don’t get any level of veto power, but I do believe the ASG should ask their opinions and let them sit in on a conversational meal if available.

Have I lost my crazy frog mind and almost done a 180? Exactly—not quite.

Check out story about Walsh swooping Mike D from Chicago. That Walsh dude is a bit of a GM Yoda isn’t he?

My shorter answer is new GM needs to understand where Woody’s coming from and vice versa. Otherwise, there will be much PAIN, PAIN, PAIN.

Given all the good points Ken made, the only chance we have to salvage some good CRAP out of the next GM, is that he understands where Woody’s coming from with his style of coaching. Ken explained it the way I see it, but clearly, we don’t get it.

So my bottom line here—if ASG loves Woody, the next GM needs to understand more about that bizarre relationship to figure out if he can reshape the roster in a way that will work with the people above and below him/her in the organization.

WWDJ—Watching Woody Dance a Jig

By MannyT

May 13, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

I.MUS I understand your lack of faith in Zaza, but remember we had 2 open slots on the roster & no draft picks. Hawks have the NBA rights to Andersen & Diop is a UFA. We got space to get all three if desired. That doesn’t count the FIVE guys on the roster that are free agents.

doc I think Philly just wanted to get rid of Korver’s contract. They traded him for Giricek who they dumped rather quickly. If you look at their squad, they need a shooter. All that to say, we probably could have picked him up for almost nothing (keeping Marvin) just to take his contract.

Looking at the NBA All Defensive team I’m not going to put in a big argument for Josh. Sure he is athletic, blocks shots and gets steals. However, I am with Matt that Josh has work to do as an on-ball defender. The players ahead of Josh (except Kidd) are better defenders.

I’m in the terrible 10%. Note that Ben Wallace didn’t receive any defensive team votes. I would not want him here at all. He got real old right after signing that big contract. Aside from 2 more years @ $14MM, imagine how hard it would be for us to score playing 4 on 5.

I’ll spare you the country music YouTube, but you got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, know when to walk away, and know when to run!

Joe Dumars was right to play his Kenny Rogers tune when Ben’s contract expired.

I need less PAIN!

By Mac

May 13, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this

Athens, Greece.

I watched Andersen In Euroleague in all of his games.

He has a very high basketball IQ, he knows the game, very smart, not very strong right know fo your league, incredible long range offencive game.

if Gasol is 100 Andersen is 85.

By Astro Joe

May 13, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Ryder, I made no comment about Smith or Battier and the Defensive Teams. But since you asked, I think most guys named on those teams are players who are regarded as smart, savvy and tenacious. Smith simply doesn’t have that reputation. Not saying if it’s fair or not, just calling it as it appears.

By infamouskrs

May 13, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

sorry Matt, just can’t quit! it’s not about “being ahead”…i was simply stating that the lack of a second premiere defender is why Josh does deserve his props. say what you want about the Chills,JJ,and Horford…but, it’s in my opinion that without Smith’s defensive numbers, this year, there is no way this squad would have even smelled the playoffs…disagree if you like!

now can the same be said about the Spurs without Bowen? nope, they’re still in. what about the Rockets without Battier (considering Ming is healthy)..they’re probably still in!

and you said it yourself…he’s an OUTSTANDING off-the ball defender. then if the supporting cast are “all” better defenders…then why is he having to help them out so much? you also have to consider his defensive rebound stats. another solid reason why he deserves respect.

so in summary…..i’ll take Smash…you take Ben and we’ll see who gets to 21(old school) first!

By The Flash

May 13, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

The drop off in Ben’s game has one explanation. No Larry Brown. Larry made Ben a much, much, much more skilled offensive player, and a smarter one too.

Under Larry, Ben understood what Detroit was trying to do on offense as well as anyone on that team, and what they were trying to do involved Ben, not simply in finishing, but in creating scoring opportunities for himself and others.

Everybody else on that team viewed Ben as integral to their offensive attack. Ben’s roll, like everyone else’s, got tweaked, even during games.

DO NOT DISCOUNT THE IMPACT OF BEING EFFECTIVE ON OFFENSE ON A PLAYER’S OVERALL SUCCESS, EVEN IF HE IS A DEFENSIVE SPECIALIST!!

This is Woody’s greatest failing. He has no ability to make the least effective players integral to the offense and certainly not to tweak what they are doing to make them smarter on that end.

In my opinion, once a GM is selected, Gman will walk out with tears in his eyes and say that they really had no other choice, that they had to give the GM the ability to chose, even though, yadayada. Color Mike gone.

Interesting way to clean house. Very direct and up front. Right!

By newkid

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

Joe, thanks for lending a bit of rationality and sanity to Hawksquawk this morning. Generally it’s a really informative forum, but every now and again …

Many thanks.

By MannyT

May 13, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

infamouskrs all of the guys in front of Josh are better on-ball defenders. You make your first defensive stand with the person in front of you. Even on the Hawks, look at the typical defensive assignments especially during crunch time.

JJ gets the best perimeter offensive threat at the 1,2, or 3.

Al usually gets the strongest inside player. Josh gets the most athletic. If the most athletic is also the strongest (see Dwight Howard) Al usually gets the assignment.

Josh is good and gets flashy highlights for his off ball efforts, but he got a reasonable ranking. He did better than AK in Utah with whom he is most often compared.

Amusingly/sadly, our most effective on ball defender when healthy was probably Speedy Claxton. (I know it’s hard to remember those few moments.) If you can disrupt the initiation of the half court offense, it creates havoc. Recall the job that Rondo did on Bibby.

Think about Chills playing PG. Defensively, it has value because of his length. He won’t get muscled by a PG. For this to be very effective for us we need a Pippen type that can run the point on offense and guard the 2 or 3 on defense. That would allow Chills to get his baseline scraps r us offense. He should not be far away from the basket on offense until he develops a reliable, quicker outside shot.

We are who we know we are…mediocre defensively = PAIN

By Astro Joe

May 13, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

newkid, thanks for the shout out. And I agree, that is usually a very good forum with knowledgable and passionate fans.

Sekou, I know that typically, coaches involved in the playoffs can’t/won’t interview until their team is done, but is the same true for front office execs? I guess I’m wondering if the ASG want to interview someone from a playoff team, if they will be forced to wait until that team is eliminated or if they can get permission to interview that candidate immediately? Walt Perrin looks good. I wonder if he worked with Alvin Gentry in Detroit?

By Ken Strickland

May 13, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

MANNYT-the problem with allowing Woodson to have input in the GM selection process is this. He would most certainly pick someone that shares his passion for experienced veteran players and controlled half court OFF. We’d end up with a team comprised almost exclusively of veteran players, except for Horford. Eventualy that would lead to another Miami situation, an over the hill team comprised of vets with little trade value and little production. Ironically, that’s what BK inherited when he became our GM.

Atlanta is an exciting city and we gravitate towards exciting events. We’re not a BAD BOY type of city, we’re SHOWTIME all the way. Woodson has a BAD BOY mentality. If you gave him Bob Hayes, once the worlds fastest human, he would put a small parachute on his back to slow him down. He’d still be the worlds fastest human, he just wouldn’t be able to prov