Hawks

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

James White? What is he doing in town? hmmm? Sekou, be honest. Will Josh be signed, or will there be a sign and trade? The best one I’ve seen yet is Smith and Speedy for Camby, Mobley and a pick. Bibby/JJ/Duck/Horford/Camby Acie/Mobley/Evans/Othello/Morris. You like?

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

James White? What is he doing in town? hmmm? Sekou, be honest. Will Josh be signed, or will there be a sign and trade? The best one I’ve seen yet is Smith, Zaza and Speedy for Camby, Mobley and a pick. Bibby/JJ/Duck/Horford/Camby Acie/Mobley/Evans/Othello/Morris. You like?

By B.A. ToDa

August 1, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Good looks Sekou. I was wandering when your next blog was coming out, cause i’ve been dying for some more information. Oh, you gotta admit that Mo Evans did a good thing by bringing Josh Smith’s name up during his welcome to Atlanta. Now hopefully Sund and others know how much he’s needed not just to the fans but also the players.

By A Thinking Fan

August 1, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this

NO MONEY ASG! Says it all…

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

Sekou, is this the same James White who is the only player in the history of the game to throw the ball between his legs and dunk, FROM THE FOUL LINE?

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

I’m sure they already know those things BA. We’ll here something soon. I think? But dont have a heart attack if he’s traded. It might happen, but I doubt it.

By J. Shuttlesworth

August 1, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

“One of the things that I think is important in the process is to have the integrity and professionalism to not negotiate in the newspapers,” Hawks general manager Rick Sund said.

Dang. You’d think that if this mess is going to drag out and get ugly, they could at least talk some trash and give me something to read during the day.

But, at least this Rick Sund guy opens his mouth.

Sekou, what does Billy Knight have to say about this fiasco? Is he still a non-talker now that he’s no longer a Hawks employee? I know you got his number, and I know he’s got all the juicy tidbits.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 1, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

The same James White. But I didn’t get a chance to talk to him, so I don’t know any details about why he was there. For years the Hawks’ practice court has been a hot spot for local pros to workout on during the offseason, so it could be nothing. We’ll snoop around a bit more Friday and see what’s shaking.

By J. Shuttlesworth

August 1, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Only a bush league organization lets it’s GM walk, but doesn’t remove his bio from its webpage for months…..

Billy Knight’s Hawks Bio

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 1, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

Yeah, I would love to see a Billy Knight interview… not that it would necessarily be directly relevant to what’s going on right now, but just to see if there were any other moves that Billy may have wanted to make during his tenure that were thwarted by the A.S.S. At the very least it would give us something to talk about.

Oh yeah, and A.S.S. = Atlanta Spirit Sucks. I was trying to get into the acronym game — word to MannyT — and I couldn’t really think of one for a while, but this seems pretty short and to the point.

By EX-HAWKSQUAWKER

August 1, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this

Wow, thanks for the update, Sekou, even if there isn’t a whole lot to report. I like Evans attitude and think he will help us replace Chillz and at a bargain price. He will even help spread the floor better than Chillz did but we will miss Chillz’s scrappy offensive putbacks and chemistry he had developed with the Hawks for sure. Who knows, maybe he returns in a year or two and is our X-factor and we end up with both he and Evans. You are right to point out that the Hawks are really starting to accumulate some overseas assets with Akyol’s apparent development. Unfortunately, they appear to be for naught because we appear unwilling to pay for our current players much less reach overseas and pay to actually ADD NEEDED DEPTH!

Still, I have to admit the potential of the future could still be very bright if we are able to sign Smoove. It appears if it were to happen, he will be at no more than “market value” which means we might have some cap room to remain flexible to tweak our team in future years (again, that would assume our owners would actually ever spend some money to help the team, which I dont know why I should even think that is a chance given recent events. I guess being a Hawks fan in general throws logic out the window, so why not?). I also wanted to ask if you still believed this from an earlier blog:

“Someone asked me yesterday if the Hawks have passed the point of no return with Josh Smith to get something done. I have a feeling they have. “

This blog seems to kind of go in another direction. I guess the proper question what be, what would you set the odds of josh smith playing in a hawks uniform next season with a new contract?

Also, any word on what if any summer league players will be on the roster next season? Particularly interested in Luke Jackson, Richardson, and Mario West. I really would like to see Jackson over West or even Jeremy. Is that a possibility?

Thanks for keeping us in the loop. Keep the info coming when you know something!

AS FOR MY USERNAME, YES, I WAS RECENTLY BANNED FROM HAWKSQUAWK BECAUSE OF THE OVERZEALOUS TYRANT MODERATOR DOLPHAN AND I DIDNT OFTEN SEE EYE TO EYE AND HE USED HIS STATUS TO MAKE ME GO AWAY, EVEN THOUGH I WAS A LONGTIME POSTER AND HUGE HAWKS FAN. SO, IF YOU HAWKSQUAWK, TELL DOLPHAN TO GO TO H*LL FOR ME.

By EX-HAWKSQUAWKER

August 1, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

Wow, I certainly would love a SPICY Billy Knight interview. He may be hesitant to throw us under the bus from a PR standpoint, but I have to admit, I would be a huge sucker for a tell-all…

Hook THAT up, Sekou!

By RaJaH

August 1, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

After hearing Chillz’s interview this morning, I find it odd that he never met with Sund in person. I thought I remember Sund saying that one of the first things he would do as Hawks GM would be to have a face to face with all players.

By cp

August 1, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

I think I will comment on the Smith situation once they finally do something with the kid. Its just frustrating now with all the rumors and feet dragging. I like James White. Decent defender and a strong finisher. Could fill out the bench. The bonus is that he would be cheap so he would be what this front office is looking for.

By Harry Hawk

August 1, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

Shuttlesworth,

Not only is that Billy Knight bio still up, it’s from three offseasons ago.

Check the first two paragraphs:

“Determined more than ever to create a winning attitude in Atlanta, Executive Vice President and General Manager Billy Knight has total faith in his transformation of the Hawks following four seasons of significant changes at the helm.

Ultimately, he knows the wins will come, and with last year’s team showing 100% improvement in victories from the year before, Knight has patiently crafted a young and up-and-coming team that is seeking to reverse the results of the past seven seasons and challenge for a positive finish in 2006-07.”

Okay. Those paragraphs are entertaining. Let’s look at the fourth one.

(WARNING: This might hurt your brain.)

“This offseason, Knight has continued to reshape the look and future of the Hawks. He selected Duke’s Shelden Williams with the fifth overall pick in the 2006 Draft and added agile center Solomon Jones in the second round, and acquired free agents Craig “Speedy” Claxton and Lorenzen Wright to fill necessary positions on the Atlanta roster. Claxton gives the Hawks the quality point guard the club has lacked, and by returning Wright to the roster and complementing last year’s free agent surprise Zaza Pachulia at center, he brings the tough, inside presence Mike Woodson has desired since becoming the Hawks head coach.”

Anyway, reading that page has me pumped up about the 2006-07 season. Don’t tell me how it ends! Don’t ruin it for me!

(I am now going to vomit.)

By HB Ando

August 1, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

Saw James White get robbed by the judges, in the McD’s All-American game dunk contest, by David Lee, who got the same kind of token, white guy vote that Brent Barry got when he won the NBA all-star dunk contest.

Dude could honestly be a world-class long jumper.

Unfortunately, the Hawks compete in the world’s best basketball league, and not in an obscure track and field event.

Look, folks continue to weigh in on their subjective opinion regarding Josh Smith’s value to the Hawks. But history will support that the resolution of Smith’s contractual status will ultimately represent the immediate future of this franchise.

It’s quite telling that so many folks here attempt to minimize Smith’s value to the franchise via overly simplistic statistical misrepresentations. Smith’s numbers, this past season, are actually stronger than AK 47’s, during his matching season (age/# of seasons), and AK got a max extension.

There’s simply no logical explanation for the ASG to fail to sign Smith to a contract that is in line with guys like Okafor, Ellis, Biedrins, and, now, Deng. None of those guys are objectively superior, and none of them have the upside of Smith.

If it’s simply a matter of limited funds, for the ASG, then why isn’t the focus on eliminating the obligation to pay Bibby $15 million next year?

I’m starting to envision the very real possibility that this organization could end up being utterly destroyed by cluelessness and a complete inability to meet the basic, minimum funding required to field a competitive NBA team.

Look, it’s actually very simple: if the Hawks fail to commit to a now well-established market defined contract for Josh Smith, it’s money (and I mean I’ll wager anyone up to $1000) that both Bibby and JJ will both sign their next contracts with any team but the Atlanta Hawks.

Sign Smith and we still have hope (though I still guarantee that we’ll miss the playoffs).

Give him away, and understand that all remaining Hawks will lose whatever slivers of faith, they have held on to, with the ASG.

Ball is in the court of the ASG. And all they have to do is pay Josh Smith. Doesn’t have to be max. Never did. Just has to line up with his peers (and if they’d signed him last summer, they would have saved at least $10 million).

By HB Ando

August 1, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this

Damn, Harry, I just hurled like a fraternity pledge……

By RealSquawk

August 1, 2008 2:36 AM | Link to this

I would really to Smith in a hawks jersey and then I really don’t want to see him in a hawks jersey if for the next four years we are going to be bickering and arguing about why they signed him to such a deal and how to move him.

There is a worst case scenario and a best case scenario in every decision. The key is to be able to accurately account for those scenarios. That is something that the ASG does not seem to have a grip on yet.

They general manager gets paid to not get blind sided by Greece and they also get paid to know what offers to match and which ones not to match.

Why people decide to call the ASG cheap I am not sure why we should be even approaching the luxury tax with only 37 wins is a mystery. If we were to sign all the people to contracts that people are asking for we would probably be closer compared to the Knicks than the Celtics or Spurs.

Sekou I do have a question. like you said we own the rights to three players and yet we have brought not one over. Why is that? and Wayne Simien is going to be on the team?

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 2:57 AM | Link to this

“I really worked hard to get here, man,” Evans said. “I was undrafted. It’s been a fight, scratching and clawing to make it in this league. They pick the players from all over the world. If you can play in Africa or somewhere else halfway around the world and you can run and jump over building the NBA is going to come and get you. So if you have a spot and have a chance to impact a situation like I have here, I took advantage of it and you can parlay that into whatever in a couple of years …

Now that is what someone who has the drive, desire, and motivation to play in the NBA sounds like.

He worked too hard to get to the NBA to just go overseas when there’s an opportunity here. I like that, and he had good positive things to say about Bibby as well. No hurt feelings stuff.

Good to see someone is excited to be here and can see some positive possibilities. I don’t care how many teams he’s been with previously, he’s here now and he sounds like he’s ready to get after it. Good signing.

Unfortunate turn of events with the Smith situation. I believe there are few, if any, good reasons at this point,not to have this matter resolved within a week or so.

Anything longer and I would have to reconsider my evaluation of ASG on this particular matter.

Still, not all bad news. I’m proud to be obsessed with this team.

Go Hawks!!

By HB Ando

August 1, 2008 2:59 AM | Link to this

Here’s a thought: instead of pretending that this franchise is NOT a caricature of an NBA franchise, maybe the ASG should embrace their limitations, both from a fiscal as well as a credible expertise standpoint, and do everything in their power, from a strategic marketing perspective, to brand themselves as the NBA’s version of “And 1”.

I mean those dudes are fighting for $25,000 contracts. Isn’t that the kind of money that the ASG is looking to spend, when they’re locking down the last 5-7 players on their roster.

How about throwing out guys like Helicopter, Escalade, Springs, Bad Santa and The Professor?

All these dudes think they should be in the league anyway. So sign the whole lot of them, for the league minimum, and then you don’t have to pretend that your anything more than the embarrassment of the NBA.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 3:20 AM | Link to this

Choking on vomit over here lol….

Manny, Thanks for that 790 the zone link.

From what I understand. Childress was defenetly upset with being stuck as the sixth man(with no oppoutunity to compete for a starting spot)……which baisically means he was upset with woodson. Sund was an Idiot, not even meeting with Chills face to face. Childress uderstood that he had to wait in order for the unrestricted free Agents to get signed, but at that point he felt no love from management and was fed up.

I kept refrencing the Elton Brand situation as an example. It’s the same scenario here. The difference here is that Chills to his game to a whole nother leauge.

….yup

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this

Based on what Mo-Mo said. It’s seems like Josh Smith is one of the main attractrions in Hawksville as far as other players are concerned.

But unless we get a new coach, don’t expect much of an improvement.

Ando, Keep spittin that venom man. I love it lol.

By ray

August 1, 2008 4:02 AM | Link to this

I’m glad Evans is here. At least we got a shooter/defender. I youtubed the hell out of him, and he’s got some skills, no doubt. Better yet, he seems like a good teammate, and when he played with the Lakers, they liked him.

One thing to add: there’s a difference between guys who have to fight and scrap to get into and stay in the league….and guys who go right into the league, stay for a few years, and then have to do what they have to do to get out of a bad situation. Childress already made his mark. He took a chance at trying something different. That takes balls, determination, desire, and an open-minded approach (not that a nice contract didn’t have anything to do with it…but you know). Not everybody understands that or is open-minded. He knows he can come back to the NBA whenever he pleases, and smartly accepted a contract that allows him to do so at the end of each season. He’ll be back. But it might not be here, and who can blame him?

I’m hoping for good things from Randolph Morris. He was never going to get a fair shake in New York with guys like Randolph and Curry ahead of him. Not to mention true hard workers like David Lee or Jared Jeffries. Then you have bums like Malik Rose and Jerome James. No, Morris didn’t have a snowball’s chance in hell. Hopefully he’ll shed any concerns that he has a lazy attitude and is a softie on the block.

Positive as we may try to be, the Josh Smith situation continues to hang like a cloud. I don’t understand the fact that there’s NO dialogue whatsoever. This ain’t good, but one can only hope that things end up similar to those other RFAs who are being taken care of. The list that some people continuously pointed to is getting very short now. And the trade rumors, however truthful or ridiculous they may be….are getting “older” if you know what I mean. No offense, but Mobley and Camby are good for how long exactly? You add guys like that when you’re about to make a run at the title or when you have a boatload of very promising young talent and need a vet or two to help balance things…not when you’re worried about making into the top 3 teams scrapping for the 8th seed…But that’s just my opinion.

In the meantime, I’d like to know if James White is around for anything Hawks related. I’d like to see Luke Jackson added to the team (no such thing as too many shooters around here). I’d like to see if Wayne Simien can be a healthier horse than Nene Hilario (best paid sick man in the business, I swear).

But we don’t always get what we like. May as well try and like what you get for the time being, hard as that may be.

By Harry Hawk

August 1, 2008 4:29 AM | Link to this

Ando,

I’m down with the And1 idea. Just gotta sign MC Duke Tango on the dotted line.

Gotta have that man yellin’ stuff like this to make the atmosphere appropriate:

“OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH, BAY-BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!”

“No holdin’! No holdin’!”

“My cousin! THA PROFESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSA!!!!!!!”

Escalade could solve our interior D problems. Nobody’s getting within five feet of the basket with his fat a* in the way.

(By the way, wouldn’t it be great if the Pistons’ PA guy played the role of Duke out there? Imagine him yelling “DEEEEEEEEEE-TROIT BAAAAAAAAASKET-BAAAAAAAAALLL” and getting punched in the face by an opposing player as the guy runs back up the court. This needs to happen, doesn’t it? I’m starting to like this idea more and more.)

You could also release the “HB Ando1 Mix Tape Blog Beatdown Tour, Vol. 1” on here. Maybe produce some Ando1 shoes that’ll make ya break ankles like HOT SIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZLE!

(This is what happens when I wake up for no reason and have no work tomorrow.)

By ray

August 1, 2008 5:13 AM | Link to this

Ha ha! Harry Hawk, you are crazy! Too funny….

By youreanidiot

August 1, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this

**Now that is what someone who has the drive, desire, and motivation to play in the NBA sounds like.

He worked too hard to get to the NBA to just go overseas when there’s an opportunity here. I like that, and he had good positive things to say about Bibby as well. No hurt feelings stuff.

Good to see someone is excited to be here and can see some positive possibilities. I don’t care how many teams he’s been with previously, he’s here now and he sounds like he’s ready to get after it. Good signing.**

No, that’s a guy who was glad to be on a team and get paid. His own team didn’t want him anymore and we paid him more than anybody else was going to which is the same thing josh childress did. You’re an idiot and you hate anybody named Josh thats all there is to it.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

August 1, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this

Ando and Harry Hawk, that’s some funny stuff. I was talking about AO just the other day.

Personally, I’d like to see them bring in The Assassin and Bad Santa, just so two cats can be running around the court with some headwear.

I mean, when a guy (The Assassin) wears a head piece like the dude from The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh, you know he can entertain.

You know, maybe the Hawks such do what the Pittsburgh Pythons did in that movie:

1) Pick their star player like the Pythons did with Moses Gutherie (Dr. J);

2) Change their team name to his astrological sign (the Pisces);

3) Sell off the rest of their players;

4) Hire a low-rent astrologist to assist the GM;

5) Hold a try-out for guys who have only the same astrological sign;

6) Struggle at first, but come back to win the champion ship … only if the ballboy fills all the basketballs with helium to make sure everything works on the astrological time tables the assistant GM sets.

Think of the possibilities …

If they built around Joe Johnson, the could change there names to the Atlanta Cancers! (How fitting.) Or maybe, because of the age of political correctness, the Atlanta Crabs … equally fitting.

If they resigned Josh Smith, the could be the Atlanta Sagittarius (although I have no clue what the pural of Sagittarius actually is).

If they built around Al Horford and Marvin Williams, they would be the Atlanta Geminis.

So there’s the solution to all of our problems!

By richbrave

August 1, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this

SIGN JOSH SMITH WHATEVER IT TAKES. He’s one of the five reasons I became a HAWKS fan. Lose him and I only got HORFORD, JOHNSON and WILLIAMS to retain my interest in this team. CHILDRESS has already feathered out and made like a Hawk. If the nest gets much smaller there’ll only be one reason to journey 600 miles to see PHILLIPS and a game - to meet the BLOG Z LIARS CLUB and its individual denizens. GO HAWKS.

By DAP01

August 1, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Childress never met Sund? Website has old bio on former GM? The management may actually be as bad as it appears!

By Reggie

August 1, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

Seokou

What free agents was Rick Sund’s short list before he signed Maurice Evans, also is it possible this team could sign another free agent, or another trade.

By doc

August 1, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

yeah as i said before we are all on the same side only looking at it from very different perspectives kirk.

obsession is part of it and a bit of camaraderie even if it is of the argumentative kind. no camps just ritz-carltonesque zone of blog heaven since we have the sekou/blog z moster to play with us.

najeh nice a.s.s. dude, not yours.

really liked the chills interview, measured a bit as he was holding back but factual. funny how sund likes to tell others what to do, that being quiet and professional, but doesnt do it himself. funny how the chill camp didnt say a word until the hawks began to misrepresent what happened.

i also especially liked how chills said he was tired of not being able to compete and told to take what is offered as though he couldnt create anything any better though he had already found an nba market value at a premium to what the hawks wanted to pay him. nope the guy is nothing but class and balls doing what he did, competitor all the way just not to the hawks favor. he said it, the hawks were limiting him and his drive was greater. he found the only way to begin to grow was to leave. that in itself takes a lot of self confidence.

also the interview shows a VERY smart kid as opposed to the stupid BASG group that wants us to believe they didnt see it coming, just no excuse for not doing due diligence on their part, no how, no way to not see it as a valid concern. it is either arrogance, ignorance or complacency as starters in their failure to get the job done and it will cost them big, ultimately, this season.

ultimately chills decided to drink the water from the well before the well was dry. pretty smart move. really dumb of sund to not talk to chills. sund would rather talk to the press than his players, guess we have the opposite of billy, shame we couldnt get the type of gm that could do both.

go get em, my boy rick ,you are doing it just right to keep your job, couldnt expect anything less. just not in the interest of the fan i might add.

at present rate of player movement, by this time next year there may only be one on your list left richie, an astounding REALISTic thought. unless we agree to overpay marvin and say it was a coup. spin baby spin; nothing but party lines.

By vdunkndunk

August 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

If only Childress would have stayed and the ASG would have gone to Greece. This is the most ridiculous franchise in the NBA. It’s an embarrasment. I thought I was a die hard Hawks fan, but the ASG has finally helped me realize that this team will never rise from the ashes. Only the Hawks could try to spin a 37-45 season as a success, and even tha small amount of success is already long forgotten. It only took a couple of weeks for them to poison the momentum and goodwill that they somehow earned by losing a firstround playoff series. So Childress is gone. What’s the excuse now for not signing Josh Smith? Deng has signed, Bogut has signed, Biedrins and Ellis and Okafur….why not Josh Smith? Get out, ASG! Get out and sell this team to some real owners who won’t sue each other or lose their 6th overall pick to Greece or pass on Chris Paul or draft Shelden Williams number 5 overall. Thanks.

By doc

August 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

i wonder what spin one tries to give when it is referred to as a short list? is it a little jargon or is he trying to say we can get who we want or it is a list of cheap affordable maybe players that have nba “experience”? we might be wishing for shels before the season is over folks.

By Paul

August 1, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

I can see James White coming in and being a replacement for Mario West. James White can be good defensively and is lights out athletically but seems to have more potentially offensively than Mario.

By newkid

August 1, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Is it just me, or is Mr. Sund dreadfully underwhelming? His very subtle attempt at post-Chilz ESPN interview spin control in the face of his not-so-subtle concern about Smoove and his agents likely electing to out he and the ASG in the ‘middle’ of these so-called negotiations reminds me of a VERY POOR man’s Dick Nixon. You recall Dick Nixom, the president who hid behind one lie after another under the pretense that if he’d allowed citizens to know the truth (e.g., about his secret bombing of the soveriegn nation of Cambodia, etc), then it would have been impossible for him to do the sort of broader ‘good’ he wished to pursue at home and abroad. I’m not sure exactly what this cat has done to garner the reputation he brings to town, but so far he appears to me to be a first class chump.

By Mike

August 1, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

SEKOU:

Thanks for the updates. Can you tell us about Speedy? How did his knee hold up in summer league? I know he didn’t play after the first two games, so that doesn’t sound good. It would be nice if he could contribute.

By MannyT

August 1, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

doc It makes me wonder…did BK spend a lot of time talking to players and little time talking to media. I understand he should have had a more balanced approach, but I’d rather he err to the side of keeping the internal business moving forward.

Lang Whitaker had a follow up with Chills lawyers after it was all done. I learned a few things here.

EX-HAWKSQUAWKER I hope you got a Favre-like offer to retire from the other blog ;-)

To the late shift time travelers, I forgot that the Hawks started 06-07 with a 4-1 record. We were on the way to something good even though we picked up several players on the cheap (Bozeman, Freije) to fill out the roster…and then it all fell apart.

Najeh There is always space in the acronympho world for another one. Sautee has WHOLE and you’ve got A.S.S. If Ivory Latta from the Dream gets between you two…;-)

OLE

By Nice

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

The hawks should look for a legitimate 7ft starting center and move Harford to power forward

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Sekou, you mean to tell me the Hawks let other teams players workout on their floor? For how much? lol!!

By chuckw/deadjournalist

August 1, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Because it’s Friday, and I’m trying to refrain from my usual, more serious posts, I bring you this idea (since it seems that no one though making over your ‘08/’09 Hawks in the vain of a classic late’70’s movie was a good idea):

Sign Rod Benson. Yes, he does have skills and actually could help the team out. But he’s good a HUGE personality, has his own Web site, created the BOOM THO! movement and writes for Yahoo! Sports.

And since Paul Shirley already played here, he’s the next best active basketblogger.

To be serious, the Hawks should sign Benson. I said that last February. He’s put up good numbers in the D-League and went to summer camp this year with Toronto but tweaked his knee and didn’t play.

He’s a big-man version of Mario West with a better offensive game. He’d be a HUGE fan favorite. Maybe bigger than Scott Hastings …

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 1, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

The pride of South Gwinnett High School, Louis Williams, inks a 5 year deal with Philly. Excellent.

A.S.S.

By B.A. ToDa

August 1, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Louis Williams got his 5 year contract today. That’s just some other NBA News for you guys. I can actually see what you guys are saying with JJ leaving the Hawks if our management shows no long-time commitment to any of our young players. Al Horford’s turned into our franchise player? He’s an automatic lock to be a Hawk for the next 7-8 years? That’s what u guys are saying. I dunno man, I just don’t have too much faith in our organization right now.

The talk is good. But if you gonna talk-the-talk… well you know. And you also know what the saying about those who Assume things. So i’m just always standing guard when it comes to these Hawks.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

……I thought I was the Pride of South Gwinnett High School???……..whatever, the important thing is that he reps SG ;-)

D.J Augistin Drops a NASTY 30pts

Another Mo Evans signing article. This one has new different quotes from Sund and Mo than the previous ones though.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Rocky Mountain Review top 10 plays…

I wanna say congrarz to Will “The Thrill” Bynum for inking a deal with Detroit this season. ThanHs Lyndsey hunter for retireing and opening the door lol. Here’s a brief video run through of what Will has been up to since leaving GT up until now….Enjoy

Also big shout out to another former GT guard Anthony Morrow who just finished playing in the RMR for The Warriors. He went undrafted also and just inked a deal with them last week.

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

Ray, we took the World Cjampions to 7 games last year. With Camby’s presence, and Mobley’s 3 pt shooting, we might have witnessed the biggest upset in NBA history. I know Smith was a big part in those victories, but hey, you never know. Just tell me this ray, which lineup would you rather see next year come playoff time? 1. Bibby, JJ, Evans(better defender than Duck), Horford, Camby. Or Bibby, JJ, Duck or Evans (you choose), Smoove, Horford? And remember we’d have Acie, Duck, and Mobley at 6, 7, and 8th off the bench.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 1, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

Speedy’s knee wasn’t a problem. He left Salt Lake City early because his wife was with child. He left to be at her side. But from all the insider reports I heard, he didn’t do anything to scuttle his comeback attempt. In fact, some folks thought he looked pretty good out there.

By MikeJones

August 1, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

The AJC has now published three articles about the signing of Randolph Morris. Randolph Morris has a lifetime career points per game average of 2. I’d say that sums up your atlanta hawks pretty well.

By SalimFan

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

Sekou, Do you see Rick Sund trying to acquire any other free Agents (Not on our summer leauge squad) before training camp??

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Hell yeah he looked pretty good out there. Considering he has’nt played in 2 FREAKIN YEARS!

By JOE

August 1, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

SEKOU K. SMITH,

            What exactly is the price difference between the hawks and josh smith?     What do they (a.s.g.) think he's worth? And what does josh smith think he's worth?    And do you think the a.s.g cares about us fans and what our opinions are?

By JOE

August 1, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

SEKOU K. SMITH,

            What exactly is the price difference between the hawks and josh smith?     What do they (a.s.g.) think he's worth? And what does josh smith think he's worth?    And do you think the a.s.g cares about us fans and what our opinions are?

By JOE

August 1, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

SEKOU K. SMITH,

            What exactly is the price difference between the hawks and josh smith?     What do they (a.s.g.) think he's worth? And what does josh smith think he's worth?    And do you think the a.s.g cares about us fans and what our opinions are?

By JOE

August 1, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

SEKOU K. SMITH,

            What exactly is the price difference between the hawks and josh smith?     What do they (a.s.g.) think he's worth? And what does josh smith think he's worth?    And do you think the a.s.g cares about us fans and what our opinions are?

By Mike

August 1, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

SEKOU:

Thanks for the update on Speedy. Any word yet on how else the Hawks will fill out the roster? Will West be back? Does Salim have any offers from anywhere? Will Othello Hunter, who played well in Colorado, make the team? Luke Jackson?

Thanks much!

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Francisco Elson may sign with the Heat for vet. min. 1.3 million. Are you kidding me? We could definately use this guy. I would much rather have him than Morris. And did’nt he play in Seattle whaen Sund was there??

By Mistadolla

August 1, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

If you pay Josh Smith near max money,what do you think Al,Marvin and Joe would want? Just those three alone could get the Hawks near the luxury tax.

By Mike Tyson

August 1, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

It’s ludaquist I tell you. Da hawks loose 12 points 5 rebounds 2 assist for a 8 2 0 replacement and still haven’t signed the rising star.

By Melvin

August 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

I sure hope Morris is more productive than last guy who wore that number 33 Jersey. To bad for Morris that the lady (Shel’s better half) doesn’t come with the Jersey.

By JOE

August 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Sorry I don’t know what happened!

SEKOU K. SMITH,

              What exactly is the price difference between the A.S.G and josh smith?  What does josh smith think he is worth? And what does A.S.G think he is worth?

And also Do you think A.S.G cares about what us fans actually think? Do you think they read your blogs?

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

The Bulls are offering Gordon 8 to 9 million, while Gordon is looking for something in the 12 mill$ range Hoopshype. If he wants 12, what does Smoove want? Just a thought.

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

The Bulls are offering Gordon 8 to 9 million, while Gordon is looking for something in the 12 mill$ range Hoopshype. If he wants 12, what does Smoove want? Just a thought. No way they pay Gordon 12 mill a year. Is he crazy?

By JOE

August 1, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

Sorry I don’t know what happened!

SEKOU K. SMITH,

              What exactly is the price difference between the A.S.G and josh smith?  What does josh smith think he is worth? And what does A.S.G think he is worth?

And also Do you think A.S.G cares about what us fans actually think? Do you think they read your blogs?

By JOE

August 1, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

SEKOU K. SMITH what does josh smith think he is worth? And what does A.S.G think he is worth? and do you think A.S.G cares about what us fans actually think? And do you think the A.S.G reads your blogs?

Sorry I didnt mean to send this post so many times!

By JOE

August 1, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

what Is the price difference between josh smith and the ASG? What does josh smith think be is worth? And what does the ASG think he is worth?

By B.A.ToDa

August 1, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

I don’t even know what to say about that Ben Gordon situation. I think he may be in worse shape than Josh Smith. Gordon might just wanna accept that offer the Bulls got on the table.

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

http://www.HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs - Jorge Sierra

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

lets try that again. http://www.HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs-Jorge Sierra

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

lets try that again. http://www.HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs-Jorge Sierra If it does’nt work James White worked out.

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

lets try that again. http://www.HoopsHype.com NBA Blogs-Jorge Sierra If it does’nt work, James White worked out.

By ray

August 1, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

One more time, terrell…..heh, heh..

Najeh, that’s not all. Saw an article in HoopsHype that said Philadelphia management and Iguodala’s agent are in constant dialogue.

Why do we always have to be the last kid on the short bus????

For the record, I’ll take James White. He’s another athletic body that should have some offensive potential. Don’t know much about his “D”. Time to do some you-tubin’ I guess. Oh wait, some people aren’t going to like this guy. I mean, he’s athletic and jumps and dunks, and such. We all know that’s no good….

Doc, that’s what I see in Childress too. Class, smarts, etc. Of course, if you choose to believe otherwise, you can spin it in any direction you want. Although some have taken it well past a difference of opinion and into the range of defamation of character. Funny how they sound just like Sund….could it be a boss-employee thing?

By Adam G.

August 1, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Sekou, any truth to the Pistons rumors. I’m hearing that Josh Smith wants to play in Detroit next year. I’m also hearing that Detroit is making a solid offer and is willing to take Claxton’s contracts of Atlanta’s hands. What can you tell us abput Josh and Detroit.

By neal

August 1, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

I know it may be difficult but i think this particular blog would have more impact if you were specific about how far apart the two sides are. Do the hawks want to give him 50MM for 5 and he thinks he should be at 72MM for 5? what is the spread, roughly.

By cp

August 1, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Paul I agree. I would probably take White over West. ray White has good length that really helps him defensively. I think his senior year with Cincinatti he actually handled the ball a lot more than his previous years. Im not saying he is a great ball handler but it is much improved from when he was with the Gators. He is a fantastic finisher and he plays hard. Seeing how we are not going to pay guys a lot of money he fits in because he would be cheap. A long athletic player who finishes with the best of them and plays hard. Might as well give him a shot.

By drmaryb

August 1, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this

Hey RichBrave, Doc, Ray-Star, MannyT, KenS, Salim, Ando & of course Najeh:

Now don’t let this crazy team and these crazy bloggers BREAK us all UP? This blog would be nothin’ if not for Ray-Star & Doc I had to take a break from this thing man…I gotta eat! - you feel me? Like a Station-Break - I had to go PAY SUM’ BILLS! Student Loans are a BIATCH!

Ray-Star what ever you do - DON’T Quit the BLOG ,,,even when I can’t post up…I do come and read the B C U - for Entertaining Newz & Factz So, keep up the good werk! Tell all them Haters to go to HELL & PRAY! LMBoobiesO.

Don’t worry FELLAS - the Thong-Song is alive and well! Just wurkin’ on some new material - that’s all! Waiting to see what kind of FREAKIN’ team these FOOLS gonna put out NEXT! NO Smoove - No Me - No Fans!

Hey RichBrave I thought I gave you a Heart-Attack or sumthin’ Great to Hear Your VOICE……Gotta Go!

Hey Sekou I still got your back like a CHIROPRACTOR! ha ha ha ha !! Keep Up the GREAT - WERK!

By richbrave

August 1, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

So Evans is a fine replacement for CHILDRESS. O.K. some inside defense both individual and help. That’s a good thing. But the lack of conversation between ASG and SMITH.? Boo, that’s a bad thing.

If I were a poker player in this situation, I would like to keep my hand in and have my agent play it. It doesn’t seem that any poker is currently being played. At least that’s the drift I’m getting from this blog and SEKOU.

SEKOU, do you think the ASG is sand-bagging you, conducting secret talks with SMITH’s agent without you knowing.? If not maybe ASG is saying let’s see what you (SMITH) do on the court as you become a FA. Then we’ll talk. Wouldn’t that be a little late.? I mean where’s the leverage from ownership’s side of things.?

Of course, by the end of ‘08-‘09 BIBBY’s contract is up and presumably it won’t be renewed unless he becomes an All-Star once again. If he’s looking for one more big contract, his play for the HAWKS club hasn’t earned it at this point. I see him gone.

I just can’t see SMITH in that same catagory. I refuse to believe the ASG is that inept at their responsibility to the city of Atlanta, its fans, and the NBA. ‘Course I’m a newbie relatively speaking where study of the ASG is concerned.

So sign, and no trade. Then do whatever $$$$ dictate with the rest of the club.

HORFORD’s mine-field is on the horizon, and to my mind SMITH and HORFORD are the essential elements of this franchise. Signing and retaining both are vital to the future viability of the Hawks.

By richbrave

August 1, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

drmaryb:

I see you werkin’ girl. You go.!!

By This Gets Old

August 1, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

ASG is so bad that guys on their fantasy teams wanna’ leave! I’d bet you that if one of their pets ran away it’d leave a note “Don’t look for me!”

Never did I think that Louis Williams would get a long term NBA deal before Chills and Smoove, never! Think we’re tired of ASG now just wait until they’re selling the team in about three years and we’re not only watching CPaul but JJ, Chills, Smoove and Bibby all on other teams.

It may be a chiche’ but it’s also a truism, You have to spend money to make money. You’ve got a guy born and raised in the ATL and he can’t get a contract?

All of the talk about going over the salary cap is crazy. JJ wasn’t happy LAST summer, what kind of mood do you think he’ll be in if both Joshs’ leave?

By Eric

August 1, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

According to all the basketball experts, a sign and trade deal is almost impossible and would be very difficult to pull off in this situation with Josh. Reason one is that a lot of the players the Hawks are trying to trade him for are at the end of there deals, which means they also would walk after one year. Reason two Josh has more value than most the players the Hawks are trying to trade him for, which means the other team would have to give up two or more players to match Josh. Example of this was the Pistons who were thinking of trading Prince for Josh, it didn’t happen because they would have to give up another player in the deal. My opinion is that Josh has all the leverage in the situation, the Hawks have two options. They can sign Josh to a one year deal, which allows him to walk after that, or they can do what they should do and lock Josh Smith down for 5 to 6 years.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 1, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Josh Howard arrested for drag racing… not that I really care about what players do off the court, but it’s just more ammunition for those of us who are not so thrilled by a potential J-Smoove sign and trade for Howard.

I wouldn’t mind James White either… I don’t think he fills a need, but considering that he’s gonna be like the 10th or 11th guy on the bench I don’t think that’s gonna be a big deal.

By Maxx

August 1, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I have a strange feeling that you are not a Duke fan. I like Mo Evans, and Randolph Moriss might have been an offseason steal. Must resign J-Smoove. It’s ok man I don’t like Dukies either I feel your pain

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Pot Head, Er I mean, Josh Howhigh er, Howard heh, was arrested today and charged with speeding and Street Racing.

I WONDER what could have made him act so irrationaly…..I can take a good guess though hehehehehehe…………

By doc

August 1, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this

dr m b after all his you know there is nothing but luv babe.

By J-rough

August 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

SO looking for some response.. the way I see it is in a sign and trade Smith is worh 5 to 6.5 mil in return salary because of BYC, so that pretty much leaves us to trade for guys still on rookie contracts or 6th man kind of guys… So, what rookies could we possibly get besides Brandon Wright and Marco Bellinelli? some ideas please, I would much rather trade for potential and guys that could be stars than let Smoove walk after this year or get garbage in return, and I do not like the Odom trade thats been posted, besides it just doesn’t work salary wise. Come on hawks fans lets get some ideas and see if management will bite on it… we can’t do any worse than they have… I am thinking we need 2 young guys for Smoove…

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

Poop, you beat me to the breaking news lol. Oh well, better luck next time heh.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

yup, after you see this you’ll DEFENETLY want to trad for Josh Howard…

BTW…How come it’s NOT news that King’s Big man Brad Miller revcently got a 10 game suspension for his pot use???? I smell foul play……and some of you wanted to trade for Miller….sheesh.

The Jail Blazers are the only Ganja users that I wouldn’t mind having in the ATL (Sheed and Damon (Not sure if Bonzi was in on it too??? I do know that portland acquiring Shawn Kemp back then didn’t help the situation lol.))

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

J-Rough, that’s why we’sd have to include Speed’s contract in a sign-and-trade. And then we could take back about 12 mill.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 7:05 PM | Link to this

More Brad Miller

Yup, you guessed it, More Brad Miller…

By Hayley

August 1, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Whatup EX-HAWKSQUAWKER

BHayley here. I know you are really bumpy, but we won’t get into that.

LOL I saw how you got banned.

Dolfan is a dictator there. ALways starting ish… IM out

By HB Ando

August 1, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

TB, I know it’s really hard for you, and folks who share your opinion on the subject, but the truth is the Celtics simply couldn’t convince themselves to take the Hawks seriously, and it almost cost them.

And based on the way things are imploding with the handling of the Josh’s, combined with no draft picks, and nothing more than the addition of a couple of minor role players, neither the Celtics, or any other Eastern Conference team, will be faced with finding a way to convince themselves that the Hawks are for real, as it’s extremely unlikely, barring several very unexpected transactions, that we’ll be anywhere but chasing the lucky bounce of a ping pong ball, come next summer.

Look, these Hawks’ players can read. And they know what the word on the street is. They have agents who make sure they understand exactly what’s happening with this ownership group. The ASG can spin the fans all day long, and virtually none of us have the necessary access to know the truth. But it’s very likely that the players are becoming increasingly demoralized by what is unfolding this summer.

These guys have to have expected that having made the playoffs, and confirming the potential of their young team would logically lead to the kind of support, from ownership, that defines the respected franchises in the NBA. Instead, they’ve witnessed Childress leave, due to a lack of urgency in communication (not some BS about him expecting $10 million), and now see the ASG inexplicably fail to step up and make a solid, documented offer, to Josh Smith, despite the recent series of signings, by other teams, of players who fairly establish Smith’s fair market value.

There’s still time to make things right. But the clock is ticking, and with each passing minute that the team fails to define its commitment to its players and its fans, folks increasingly lose faith that the ASG will ever deliver a legitimate product.

And how they handle Smith, and I know I’m now pounding this point repeatedly, WILL be one of the primary determining factors in the upcoming decisions, regarding extensions, for guys like Johnson and Horford (I fail to include Bibby here, because I simply don’t believe the ASG will pay him $15 million this year, leading to what I think is an inevitable trade between the start of the season and the trade deadline).

What could have been a summer of hope, building on the unexpectedly competitive playoff series against the Celtics, has quickly become a sad reminder that the Hawks lack the necessary leadership to become a consistent consideration in any discussion related to Eastern Conference contenders.

Clock is ticking, like a time bomb of credibility, for the ASG. The failure to act, to the expectations of the majority of Hawks fans, will lead to a devastating explosion of faith and interest. And if the management of this franchise does not either see this, or accept it as truth, then they will have no one to blame when an undeniable proof is validated, by a rapid decline in ticket sales (once again), and a consistent, and collective voice of utter disgust and discontent.

I’ve heard it said, from someone who’s opinion impacts this situation, that winning cures all. If that is true, then where are the actions that clearly support the possibility of winning? Mo Evans and Randolph Morris certainly cannot be expected to take this team to the next level. So who will, and how much longer must we (can we) wait, for a clear plan of action?

Tick tock……..

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

James white still has one year left on his overseas Euroleauge Contract. It’s with the Turkish Squad (Fenerbahçe Ülker).

(Fe-ner-ba-chi)

……Maybe he’s just training in the states. Or he had an opt out clause in his contract????? Maybe sekou mistook someone else for him??? White is from D.C….sekou will clear it up eventually lol.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 1, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, SalimFan… my experiences with driving while blazed usually lead to me doing about 50 in the left lane of the freeway. Maybe if Howard had smoked some more he would have reconsidered his decision.

By J-rough

August 1, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

barron who would take speedys contract and smoove for a quality player? you will only get someone that is being overpaid that is it, rookie contracts is the only way to go from my standpoint, also you would need to find a team 5 to 6.5 mil under the cap to do that, it doesn’t work, that keeps getting repeated on here, everyone is bashing ASG but expecting other teams management to be boneheads, highly unlikely in my opinion. so what rookie contracts could we get for smoove??????

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

Summer Leauge top 10 plays

We just need ONE MORE Legit wing (Mike Miller) added on to what we currently have and a new coach and we will be set. The we have big men who take up space. Morris is ONLY (You guessed it) 22 years old. With a LEGIT coach and an oppourtunity he can becom that missing key cog in the middle.

Of couse these are just fantasies. The BASG are not capable of pulling off such a feat.

Sigh, Back to the waffle house, I mean drawing board.

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

It is disappointing to read about Josh Howard and his brush with the law. Going 94 in a 55 zone is risky behavior. However, it is just a misdemeanor apparently and he should be go to go for the season.

I still believe his acquisition in a sign and trade could prove beneficial for the Hawks.

He is not the first to make a poor decision off the court, but there is not much complaint about his on court decision making.

Here’s an interesting interview with him, that I believe shows a player quite aware of his situation and comes across and a humble and highly motivated player.

[http://dallasbasketballdotcom.yuku.com/topic/16872]

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

LOLZ Poop, I’ve heard that before too heh. “Responsible” pot users (My previous college roomate) told me that when he’s blazed you can catch him doing about 20-50 mph at all times just in case lol.

By SalimFan

August 1, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Actually White has Three years left on his European contract. That’s a no-go in Hawksville.

By ray

August 1, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

ding.

By ray

August 1, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

SalimFan, I think we’re going to have to settle for Mike Miller lite. His name is Luke Jackson. What the hell. I’ll take him. James White, too. And hoping like hell that big Randolph shows us some good stuff. I really want to see that. Something tells me Simien is a no-go health-wise yet again, and we never even got to see Justin Williams.

Ando, exactly. People who support the ASG oddly fail to see this particular inconsistency. Funny how when it comes to ticket sales, marketing, and overall spin, the exciting playoff series is mentioned. When it comes time to pay players, the “only 37 wins” is what comes out of Sund’s mouth.

I’ll say it again: Sund ol’ boy, if you can find and construct a better team, then show us. If you can’t, then you pay fair price for what got you where you are now. Based on Sund’s past and his short tenure here, I’m not impressed at all. We can only hope that the guys we’ve picked up play beyond the expectations that their contracts paid for.

By Michael Gearon

August 1, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Hi everyone, I am a member of the ASG. I ensure you we are evaluating every player and coach on a daily basis for the betterment of our franchise. Best, ASG

By Bruce Levenson

August 1, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Hi everyone, I am a member of the ASG. I ensure you we are evaluating every player and coach on a daily basis for the betterment of our franchise. Best, ASG

By Ed Peskowitz

August 1, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Hi everyone, I am a member of the ASG. I ensure you we are evaluating every player and coach on a daily basis for the betterment of our franchise. Best, ASG

By The Truth

August 1, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

Here is a different prospective to Smith situation:

If the fans start to believe that Josh Smith is too much interested in money (with very high-dollar contract demands) and not committed to winning a championship (or at least getting into the playoff, than his support will dry-up fast. There is a point when too high of a contract can really hurt the team ability to compete and acquire other quality players. (If you just want to be entertained with dunks, than let’s just hire some globe-trotters) Remember, if Smith wants to be the Robin to Batman and seroiusly compete,than his contract should no be higher that JJ, period. Let’s not kid ourselves, everyone knows that JJ is really “the man” on our team.

At the end of today, its a team sport. Not me, myself and I.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 1, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this

“If the fans start to believe that Josh Smith is too much interested in money (with very high-dollar contract demands) and not committed to winning a championship (or at least getting into the playoff, than his support will dry-up fast.”

After the ridiculousness of the negotiations so far, there’s no way the majority of fans are gonna blame Josh Smith if it doesn’t turn out right. I think most of us realize that the A.S.S. is the problem. Sure, we may not be so sympathetic to Josh if he asks for $14 million a year, but he’s still gonna look a lot better than the A.S.S. when all is said and done.

By The Truth

August 1, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Most of what us fans know about the inside negotiations (of Smith situation) at this point is really just speculation.

At the end of today, for Smith to be a Hawk, Smith must come down from his asking price and the AGS must pay more than they wanted.

It must be a win-win situation. Both side must walk away feeling like each side won. That is what negotiation is all about.

By ray

August 1, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith haters keep trying…

By terrell barron

August 1, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

J-Rough, you dont know what your’re talking about. In sign and trade’s teams usually always take on contracts, to get the player they want. It happens all the time. And Ando , I was at game 6, and you cant tell me that Boston was’nt trying to win that game. We mighta snuck up on em in game 3 and 4, but they camt to close it out in game 6, and it did’nt happen. The Celtics were CLEARLY the better team, but dont say they took us lightly. Doc would neveer let that happen.

By ray

August 1, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

It must be a win-win situation. Both side must walk away feeling like each side won. That is what negotiation is all about.

No kidding. I think it would take $11 million. What do you think?

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this

That’s an interesting perspective. Of course those fans would immediately be labeled something like “company persons”, or “ASG supporters”.

They will simply be dismissed for one reason or another by loyal Smith devotees most likely because they failed to see that in any Hawks issue, there is fault to be found with ASG. It is always, has always been,and will forever be, no matter what, the fault of ASG.

It will mostly be done with unmistakable good nature of course.

Some offer that it is possible that Smith may deserve some responsibility in this matter as well.

But there is no division of fans of course. So I for one would hate to see Smith tarnished in any way in the eyes of those who now hold no grudge against either party.

Let’s hope this matter is resolved in a way that is helpful to the Hawks first and foremost, and for Smith too of course.

Go Hawks!

By ray

August 1, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

heh…..

By The Truth

August 1, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

I hope I am never labeled as a ASG supporter because that would be false. I am just tired of hearing about the prospects of Smith “Big-Money” contract.

I think of MJ and Magic back in the day. They were more concern with winning championships than that high dollar contract. They knew that if they became champions, the big money would naturally follow them. (and it did!)

This new breed just want to paid. But what about the fans, we want to win!

By Mo Evans

August 1, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

I’m still mad we lost Childress, however, with the addition of Mo, let’s consider the following:

He was the starting SG on a Magic team that won way more games than the Hawks. He can shoot and defend. The game at the end of March when the Hawks hosted the Magic at Phillips, we won, but Mo went off for 27 points. He hit that corner 3 alot and that will stretch things even more for Joe and Bibby.

I also like Mo’s comments about Bibby. Bibby was not healthy last year with us and plus he was in a new system with new players. If healthy and comfortable this year, that is good news for us.

By ray

August 1, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

I wonder if we’re going to pick up any more free agents? I’d like to see Luke Jackson brought in. James White is a guy I’d not mind taking a chance on, if the price is right (and I don’t know what that would be). Read an article on HoopsHype and saw that he is trying out for here, Indiana, and Toronto. He’s supposed to be back here middle of next week. I guess we’ll hear something a little later.

Of course Smith assumes some responsibility on the contract issue. Has anybody said differently (and I mean verbatim, no twisted lies, thankyou very much). Let’s see a show of hands. No hands? Okay. I don’t think that’s ever been the question. The question is how much responsibility does he have here?

But there is no division of fans of course.

There isn’t. No matter how badly some people want for there to be. There is a difference of opinion, not a division of Hawks fans. We’re all Hawks fans. Odd that only two people truely held this “divided” perspective. One seemed to recant the idea to a certain degree. The other is dead set on trying to destroy something rather than contribute to it.

Of course, that isn’t true. I’m just “obessed” with the evidence that clearly points to the contrary. All in good nature of course.

So I for one would hate to see Smith tarnished in any way in the eyes of those who now hold no grudge against either party.

I should just call that an outright lie, but perhaps it’s not in lieu of the sarcasm being thick enough to cut with a knife.What grudge? Sounds like yet another negative, devisive thing that a particular person wants to exist here. But no, that can’t be. That would be….drama.

Once again, not one basketball related part of the 9:34 post…perplexing.

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

I agree, it was interesting to see the positive observations about Bibby, and Smith as well.

There are some that believe Bibby should not be on the team come the trade deadline, and certainly not come start of next season.

I continue to believe that having that veteran PG who has vast playoff experience is invaluable on a young team. If we had vets who carry the load as they do in Boston, then a young PG is ok.

But with the Hawks, a veteran like Bibby is the best option. While he may not be in the top 6-7 PG’s in the league for to some, he’s certainly in the top half, and is without a doubt, the best PG on the Hawks roster.

By ray

August 1, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

The Truth, everybody is tired of hearing it. And every team goes through it. We just want it to be done.

The NBA was different back in the days of MJ and Magic. In a lot of ways, which I’m sure you recall. You didn’t hear nearly as much about contracts and what not. It’s different today. Smith isn’t the only one you hear about these days. Not by far. And he’s nowhere near the level of guys who are overpaid (and always seeking to be) such as Rashard Lewis and Gilbert Arenas.

But you also have to consider: Magic and MJ had such incredible amounts of endorsements, their contracts were almost literally back-burner as far as income. Think of all the sponsors MJ had : McDonald’s, Hanes, Nike, Gatorade, etc.

You’re right though, too many guys just want to get paid.

By Mo Evans

August 1, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

I agree w/ your comments about Bibby.

W/o Bibby last year, we do not make the playoffs. Period.

By ray

August 1, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

SalimFan, that article said that White has no intentions of returning to Turkey. If he’s still on contract, I could only assume a buyout was in order. And in that case, I imagine that whether an NBA team signs him will hinge on his performance and the size of his buyout…if he’s still under contract, that is.

Watched some footage of Randolph Morris. Kid does have some skills. I don’t have “high draft pick” hopes for him, but I do have high hopes. It would be really nice for us to have picked up a guy who develops into a very solid low post contributor, especially considering what we paid for him.

By mikey g

August 1, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

james white plays much like js and would be much cheaper. if we can sign james we won’t need js. he can run off to greece or turkey or play for the qualifing offer. that is all he will get from us anyway. we are a playoff team and can’t overpay our players because we will have more players wanting raises next year. if that judge would make belkin give us his money back things might be different.

By Taboo

August 1, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Now ray, did it not ever occur to you that kirknga and the truth might be one and the same? Having watched you for quite some time now, I must say that I’m disappointed in you old boy for continuing to respond to such an obvious implant. Even your best efforts and making peace have been turned aside, which should have been the first clue. Your responses help him or her to gain credibility. I think you like a good backyard tussle, but in light of what you have accomplished in the past, this is a bit beneath you, no? Please however, do not take this as a scolding. I respect your humor and intelligence.

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

You see what I mean. It’s too easy.

Yeah, it’s all just one person trying to destroy rather than contribute…lol!

But it can be fun to have a blog bully stalk you. It’s actually a compliment they are unable to just scroll by when they see your name.

You know you can make them react without ever saying a word to them? That’s right, it’s so easy. They try even harder when you don’t speak to them at all!

But the bully is insistent! Surely this next insult will hurt! Then the next and the next and the next one. On and on it goes this is seen of course as “contributing”.

The bully’s mentality is surely if I harass and libel him by calling him a liar enough, he’ll be wounded and upset, and maybe go away.

Well time to grab some popcorn as I’m sure there will be more stalking, harassing, and reaction to come. I wonder what it’ll be this time?

Self-righteousness perhaps? Feigned innocence? Insincerity? Sarcasm as informed opinion? It might be the famous , “I just do see”, or ” I just don’t get”? A plea to other bullies? Remember if all these are in the next post and you’ve marked all of these on your scorecard you’re eligible to win tonights sweepstakes prize of a Josh Childress commerative poster!

Now for those playing at home, remember there are 5 extra points for any other bully attracted as if on cue!

Thanks!

By kirknga

August 1, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

And for the record..I don’t use any other name. And there have been no “efforts and making peace” except on my end.

It’s solely due to the efforts of the bullies who apparently with all their intelligence and humor, cannot “contribute” without somehow involving me or my comments.

I mind my own business but it is the bullies who actively look for me, not the other way around.

By ray

August 1, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Taboo, don’t know ya right off. But duly noted. I concede your point. For once I’d agree that ignorance in this case probably is bliss. See ya round if you care to write again.

By Maxx

August 1, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

haha RAY you should leave the pest control to the experts! how do you bully somebody on a blog i’ve never heard of that? kirknga you must have some thin skin or somethin! get beat up in school alot?

By Taboo

August 1, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Sorry kirknga, not meant to offend. I understand that some people like to play such games. I will assume that you are speaking tongue in cheek, as you seem to be having fun with the attention you are receiving.

I do not write often, ray. I do read this blog a great deal, however. The blogs of the columnists are fewer and farther between, and something appears to have happened to the Hawks Hack. I know that this person has moved on, but is that an end to the blog, then? I shall watch and see. Adieu.

By The Truth

August 2, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

Taboo Don’t be threaten if I don’t think like you, and no, I’m not an implant. I’m just a fan just like you. You know I could accuse you of being Josh’s agent, but I won’t. The truth is, we are all Hawk fans. We just have different points of view.

By Tree Rollins

August 2, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

There is no reason to make such a fuss about Josh Smith. The guy was drafted 17th overall. He wasn’t drafted with the idea that he will be a megastar, he was just another in a long line of swingmen that Billy Knight drafted.

Nothing has changed. Tell me how much better he is than Marvin Williams? If Marvin improves at a normal, natural rate won’t his numbers be similar to the ones Josh Smith has? Remember, Josh has been in the league longer. Billy may have drafted a bunch of swingmen and no centers, but that allows us flexibility. Marvin will make a better natural small forward. What we need is a natural center so that Horford can play his natural position of power forward.

For this reason, I advocate the trade of Josh Smith for Marcus Camby and perhaps Cuttino Mobley. Camby gives us a center, and Mobley gives us another solid guy at the shooting guard spot. This also strengthens our bench. And more importantly, it balances our roster, which has been the major complaint all along.

By kirknga

August 2, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Wow, now we have all kind of people popping up!

No offense taken , if none was meant Taboo, yes I am tongue and cheek and any attention has not been asked for.

By Taboo

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

I extend my apologies to you as well, truth. I am not feeling threatened however, as I have yet to state my point of view. It is unimportant, and I enjoy the reading far more than the writing. I bid you adieu as well. Good night then.

By ray

August 2, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

The Truth, hah! Can you imagine if he was Josh Smith’s agent (not that any of us would believe it)? We’d be all over him wanting to know all the details and what not.

By wtf

August 2, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

Tree Rollins im glad you are retired and not our gm. Marvin has only been in the league one year less than Josh and Josh has been better than him so im failing to understand your flawed and dumb logic over here..

So we trade a 22 year old who isnt even close to his ceiling for not one but two aging players? Mobley helps us in what way? Camby blocks a lot of shots and gets boards but Denverr fans will tell you that his stats dont show how poor of a defender he is. So we trade a 22 year old who has been pretty much healthy for 2 injury prone old guys. Yea I love that trade smdh. And I thought BK was bad. Some of you guys make him look like Jerry West.

By ray

August 2, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Tree, you make a good point. That does balance the roster. Hard to argue with that.

Of course, I wonder how that works over the long term. We’d certainly be a suddenly more experienced team (although chemistry would be at a start-over point). I wonder how Mobley would take to coming off of the bench? Then again, would we let Mobley start at the 2 spot and move JJ to the three? Would he be okay with that? Interesting thoughts. Care to elaborate?

By ray

August 2, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

WTF, you ain’t right. I was trying to get past the Josh/Marvin thing, but you had to blow it all up, LOL! Personally, I have concerns over how it works over the long term. As far as I’m concerned, Marvin isn’t nearly the same type of player that Josh is. Their physical descriptions on paper are similar. After that…no similarities whatsoever.

However, can you argue that such a team (assuming the vets can stay healthy) wouldn’t win more than 37 games? It does make us deeper…The flip side of that is that signing more guys makes us deeper too. No, I don’t want to mortgage part of our future for a couple of older guys that may not make us better in the long run. I think we’d win more games than last year, but who’s to say we wouldn’t do that with Josh (and some more free agents) on board?

By Tree Rollins

August 2, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

wtf it’s kind of simple. Add one more year to Marvin Williams’ experience. Is it too much to ask for him to average two or three more points, plus two or three more rebounds? If you add that, then you have very similar statistics to those put out by Josh Smith last year. The only difference will be the blocked shots. What’s so dumb about that logic?

I’m glad I’m not the GM either. I wouldn’t want to work for that many owners! And Denver fans know that when Camby left, the defense left. Look at how upset Carmelo Anthony was when he found out that Camby was traded behind his back. By the way, how do you get to be Defensive Player of the Year if you are a poor defender? I wouldn’t want to call your logic dumb, but do you see what I’m saying?

By ray

August 2, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

Tree, how refreshing to be able to talk basketball. Also, not to be talking strictly about contracts.

I see your point about Marvin improving. But don’t we assume that Josh improves as well? At this point, the stats don’t remain the same. The other thing is this: Marvin does not seem like he will ever be the defensive threat that Josh will be. Of course, you could argue that Josh will never have Marvin’s sweet shooting stroke, and I couldn’t argue about that either. Again, I like the trade for Camby and Mobley only for roster balance. For building for the future….me no likey.

By Maxx

August 2, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

Well well looky here. grown folks talking basketball and suddenly the pest shuts up as he has nothing to say in the first place, but sniveling ans snotting over in the corner becasue of internet bullies ha ha! maurice evans sucks and so does randy morris. bad signings!

By ray

August 2, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

If James White is working out for the Hawks, then perhaps others are headed this way, too. Of course, I see what kind of player is coming this way (no big timers), but better for some to be coming than none at all. Wonder who’s next?

Any ideas, Sekou?

By wtf

August 2, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this

Because every year its always the same with Marvin. If he does this , if he does that. Marvin will probably score 16 ppg next year and Josh will be around 20. Marvin is a terrible rebounder. He is long and atheletic but if you look at it Josh Childress was a better rebounder than Marvin. Wake me up when Marvin actually lives up to all this potential. If we were trading for Camby or Mobley 3 or 4 years ago im fine with it. Even with them and Woodson still as our coach I see a max of 3 to 6 more wins at the most. Mobley is nothing like he once was. The Clippers took Gordin to replace him. You never know if Camby goes right back to missing half the season with injuries. The trade hurts us in the long run. I shouldnt have used the word dumb but I dont like the trade. I do not like Mobleys game anymore. The guy basically camps out behind the arc and launches.

By kirknga

August 2, 2008 2:01 AM | Link to this

I think the Evan and Morris signs are excellent ones. They don’t sux,(if I may elevate things a bit)

They address some weaknesses in the roster.

I continue to hope we add another big, especially if Josh Smith goes away.

By HB Ando

August 2, 2008 2:20 AM | Link to this

Ray, hit my e-mail with an alternate number

By ray

August 2, 2008 2:45 AM | Link to this

In a minute…

By Tree Rollins

August 2, 2008 2:52 AM | Link to this

If Josh Smith goes away, it must be for a viable center. Although Josh Howard may be an enticing idea, I would rather Dallas send Diop our way. He is fairly young and could solidify the middle. Otherwise, Camby and another player are the best options. I thought Camby was a name that has been bandied about on this blog before? Now there is no interest? I still think Marvin is our best option at small forward. Josh Smith just is not a shooter and he plays better as the power forward. But the best power forward is still ideally Al Horford.

By ray

August 2, 2008 3:19 AM | Link to this

Damn. Watched some footage of Team USA against Lithuania. Wow. These guys look better than they have in a good long while. They definitely have paid attention to defense this time around. Looks like Kobe absolutely locked Sarunas Jasikevicius down.

And if anybody was worried about Dwayne Wade’s health….don’t be. Dude is looking %110 like the guy opponents came to know as “Flash.” And his hops aren’t gone either. He got up and blocked one shot against Lithuania that was just nasty….good stuff. Long as they keep their focus, we’ll be looking good in the Olympics.

I see the Pistons re-signed Walter Hermann. Good move. I wouldn’t have minded seeing a guy of his talent here, but I don’t know if we could afford him or were even interested. I think Charlotte was foolish to let him get away.

Maxx, you won’t be saying that if Morris gets his career kickstarted here. Here’s my pipe dream: Morris gets it going and becomes a long-term solution at the 5, alongside Horford. Of course, my equation includes Josh at the 3, but you know how that’s going right now….I figure if we’re fortunate, Morris becomes a solid contributor for 20-25 minutes at the 4/5 for us.

And don’t discount the fact that Evans started 47 or so games for Orlando last year. Michael Pietrus was my choice for a signing in that slot, but Evans will do. Nothing wrong with a lock-down defender (besides JJ) on the perimeter and a guy who can hit better than %35 from 3-point land.

By HB Ando

August 2, 2008 3:32 AM | Link to this

Kirk, I’m genuinely perplexed by your comments. Either you combine an unyielding optimism, highlighting a very limited understanding of just how little impact a couple of fringe players, like Evans and Morris, are likely to bring. Or, you have an equally persistent agenda, focused on generating positive spin, for the organization, intended to diffuse the increasingly negative expectations/concerns of a frustrated majority of representative fan voices.

With no disrespect to either Evans or Morris, it’s simply nonsensical to suggest that their signings somehow reinforce the idea of either an improved roster, or greater expectations for the coming season.

And it seems that your post is specifically designed to use these marginally impactful additions as a method of distracting the rightfully concerned fans from the far greater question marks related to what appears to be an incomprehensible stance, by the ASG, to offer a fair (based on the market-based extensions signed by Smith’s statistically comparable peers) contract to Josh Smith, a player who, while still a work in progress, at 22, possesses a collection of unique athletic gifts, validated by statistical production, game-altering, highlight worthy plays, and the additional value of drawing ticket-buying fans.

If he was seeking a max contract extension, which has never been suggested by any credible media source, then it would be understandable that retaining him would come with some risk and trepidation.

But, from the limited feedback made available to both the local and national media, which is all the average fan has as a point of reference, the ASG has yet to offer this popular, and uniquely gifted athlete, anything more than 5 years/$45 million. Given that players like Bogut, Okafor, Ellis, Biedrins (10 points, 9.8 boards and 1.24 blocks, with a mere, single dime, and a nerve-wracking 62% from the line, signing a 6 year/$63 million contract this week), and, reportedly, Deng ($70 million, with escalators creating the potential for $80 million, despite averaging 17 points, 6.3 boards, 2.5 dimes, .9 swipes, less than .5 blocks, and a mere 8 3’s, for the full season).

So, as you consider that our own Josh averaged 17 points, 8.2 boards, 3.4 dimes, 1.5 steals, 2.8 blocks, and, despite needing to show a bit more self restraint about launching 3’s, 25 of his attempts, from beyond the arc, hit the mark.

Here’s my educated opinion on the potential for improvement, of both Deng and Smith, based on their current levels of production and their individual athletic traits: Deng can become a consistent, and efficient, wing player, unlikely to emerge as an all-star, but offering very valuable contributions to the Bulls, or any other team he ends up playing for. But, from an athletic standpoint, he will never become a force on the defensive end, consistently averaging less than either a steal or a block per game. At the end of the day, there will always be more players, in the NBA, who have the similar traits and abilities to replicate Deng’s potential.

On the other hand, Smith, at 22, and playing catch up on applying the finer points of the game, having never played college ball, and allowed to cruise based on his freakish combination of size and athleticism, has significantly greater potential to improve by leaps and bounds (OK, some play of words was conveniently applied, given its relevance).

We’re not talking max here, folks. We’re talking market, unless the majority assumption regarding his expectations are way off base. The recent flurry of signings, of RFA’s, none of whom stand in clear superiority to Josh, from either a current production standpoint, or a defensible potential upside projection, all stand in a very narrow range, making it that much more clear cut of just what Josh Smith should expect from the ASG.

And when you add the somewhat intangible, but undeniable, value that his nightly awe-inspiring displays of gravity defying, highlight reel plays, which bring back ticket-buying fans just as reliably as wins, it’s literally beyond my comprehension as to why the ASG hasn’t locked this kid down, and accelerated its marketing efforts to take advantage of his near-nightly displays of mind-blowing feats.

But hey, if the ASG would rather pay a over-paid, over-rated, over-the-hill, completely unlikely to re-sign point guard, in Bibby, well they’ll have no one to blame when we struggle to win 30 games, and the team plays to empty, uninspired crowds, who can’t be fooled into ludicrous spin that there’s a master plan just around the corner (again, for the 10th straight year).

By thrilla

August 2, 2008 4:14 AM | Link to this

That would be the real truth! Mo Evans and Randolph Morris are end of the bench players. I can not get excited about them until we sign our starter. iF we let Smoove go, then yeah we have to get another big guy. But why let Smoove go? He hasn’t done anything but help this team. Look at the polls. They might be silly but you can see that most people want Smoove to stay. I guess a few guys just don’t like him but for what I can’t imagine. He’s not crazy like Ron Artest and never gets arrested for anything. Like HB ando said, Smoove gets numbers as good as the other guys getting signed. And hes very young! We can’t lose two first round draft picks in one offseason! Well not two good draft picks anyway. I never cried about losing Sheldon. He was not worth anything until gargbage time at the end of the season. Sign Smoove now!

By kendall

August 2, 2008 6:30 AM | Link to this

VERY SIMPLE THE NBA NEED JOSH SMITH THE CITY OF ATLANTA NEED JOSH SMITH. 4YEARS IN THE NBA 22 YRS OLD AND A GREAT PLAYER U DO THE MATH. PAY THE MAN OUR LOSSS YOUR FRANCHISE. THIS PLAYER IS THE HAWK FURTURE. JOSH N KOBE????

By TONEY

August 2, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this

KIRKNGA - YOU ARE CRAZY RANDOLPH MORRIS DIDNT EVEN GET DRAFTED WHEN HE FIRST CAME OUT. HES LIKE A D LEAGUE PLAYER AND EVANS CANT EVEN STICK TO A TEAM THAT HAD HIM STARTING. JOSH DOESNT NEED TO GO AWAY BUT FANS LIKE YOU SURE DO. YOU WANT SCRUBS IN PLACE OF STARS ARE YOU STUPID????

By ZULU

August 2, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Atlanta is a world class city that still has a second tier mind set when it comes to top tier sports. Rick Sund is not a visionary and was not put in place as one. His job is to simply to hold the line and don’t do anything outlandish. Like paying the going price for talent in a profession DOMINATED by Blacks. M.Evans would have been a Great pick-up had Childress remained a Hawk & J. Smith been resigned. That old saying is true “__ walks and money talks.”

By doc

August 2, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

do we have a three in one trinity among us?

funny to even hear folks think marvin can take slack from josh smith, he couldnt even take the slack of chills and will have a very difficult time filling that void. marvin is not a finisher. he starts but doesnt have his coaches confidence he can be the one to make the right decisions consistently on the floor when games are decided.

i remember when royal ivory was a starter, so what on the starter thing,? it is irrelevant to the ultimate contribution, i want finishers, the joshes were,. marvin and evans arent or orlando would have kept the guy at that price. nice player but journeyman replacing one of the top sixth men in the league. how can one even argue it is a god move? it is downright silly, stupid, insane or just a plant for the hawks to deflect from the issues sund and his mer4ry band of men are killing this hawks team just like it did in seattle? is he preparing it to move it back to seattle?

By Eric

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

Why are these blogs so uninformative?

GIVE US SOME SUBSTANCE.

By jhan

August 2, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

I hope one day we finally get to hear the truth about what is happening this off-season. I know this may be impossible for some here, but try to follow this logic:

The ASG consists of several owners, all of whom are very successful & intelligent in the business world. Face it, how many of us have made enough money in our lives to purchase even 1/8th of an NBA/NHL franchise? Not many I presume.

How can these same owners agree that this is the way to successfully run this NBA franchise? I have to believe none of them wants to run the Hawks in this matter. They understand about public & player perceptions. They know they are alienating fans & certain players with the way things are being handled right now.

Does anyone truly believe they are running the team this way because they all sat down & agreed this is the most productive way to do it? I have to answer NO to that question.

Let’s be real for a minute - if a bunch of bloggers can come up with legitimate solutions to personnel & PR issues don’t you think these guys can as well?

There’s something going on behind the scenes that is not allowing them to run this business as they see fit. I refuse to believe that any of these owners are dumb enough to think they are doing a good job right now.

I’m sure it all boils down to the money. They are in the middle of a nasty divorce & their hands are probably tied to a certain extent.

I’m glad the ownership mess will be finished in February. This will allow me to guage what’s happening before it’s time to renew my tickets. If I don’t like what I see & hear then I get to keep my money.

By Mike

August 2, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

I don’t know where this hype about Evans defense comes from.

1. If he was so good on the defensive end the Pistons would never have cut him
2. If he was so good on defense the Magic wouldn’t have replaced him with Pietrus who only stays in the NBA because of his defense

Evans is not close to Childress in ability. Replacing Childress with Evans was a step down for the Hawks.

Smith and his agent have an over inflated opinion of what he is worth. For a mediocre rebounding PF who shoots less than 29% from more than 4 feet he is probably worth no more than $8 million a year.

Smith is a great athlete but not much of a basketball player.

By Ken Stricikland

August 2, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the informative info Sekou. This is very encouraging to me because it shows Smoove and his agent are trying to work out a deal, instead of trying to force the Hawks’ hand. He could very easily agree to take the one yr tender and force the Hawks to seek a sign and trade, or lose him after the season.

As long as there’s continued dialogue, there’s definitely hope. I think the efforts by Smoove and his agent, to work out a deal with the Hawks, definitely dispells the rumors of him no longer wanting to be on the team.

If we resign Smoove, we’ll go into the season pretty well stocked. During our playoff run, we were shorthanded at PG and the frontcourt. With Speedy added to the mix we’ll be very well stocked with quality PG’s. With RMorris, we’ll have another BIG that should provide us with as much as LWright or SWilliams provided, and probably more, if given consistent mins.

I still think the Hawks were caught off guard when Smoove didn’t receive any offers. What they’re doing now is likely a hastily constructed plan B, brought about by the sudden and unexpected departure of Chills. So, if we resign Smoove, we’ll go into the season with core of last yrs playoff team in tact, except for Chills. The addition of REvans, RMorris and Speedy leaves only one remaining active roster spot, which places MWest and JRichardson on the bubble. REvans’ ability as a DEF stopper, and Richardson’s shooting ability, makes West the likely odd man out.

It’s going to be exciting to see how this team starts the season. The impact that Speedy, Morris, Evans and a healthy, comfortable Bibby will have on this team will be interesting, and hopefully exciting. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

i hated to lose CHILS but i do ‘think’ EVANS can replace him without too much issue. for all CHILS’ assets his shot was a liability and opponents knew they could back off of him, especially the last 2 seasons. CHILS only started to take a ‘few’ 3s again toward the end of last season. so as smart of a player that CHILS is, he ‘weaknesses’ could be exploited. and his main weakness was the same weakness of the team!!! so in that regard the team ‘did’ improve with the EVANS signin’. we’ll see if EVANS can bring the other intangibles that CHILS brought to the court.

and as much as i hate WOODSON as the HC, CHILS did himself and the team NO favors by NOT developin’ a shot in 4 freakin’ years. it’s not like he didn’t know what he needed to work on. so ‘that’ lies with CHILS and CHILS ONLY!!!

i too wanted to see this team land PIETRUS and stated his worth months ago. but EVANS ‘might’ be as suitable in that his shot seems to get better reviews than PIETRUS’. defensively, it seems to be even. JARVIS HAYES would have been an ‘obvious’ 1st choice after havin’ seen his play in DET IMHO.

bottom line…SIGN SMOOVE DAMN IT…PERIOD!!!!

By doc

August 2, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

yup jhan, said many years ago the divorce would hamper this team and we wouldnt resolve player and competitive issues until it was finalized. first it was legal ensnarements and now it is just plain under capititalization that keeps us spinning in this spiral of discontent for the players and fans.

if the wiz are just ahead of us and spend to keep their nucleus together and we dont which was are we headed? it is not that i thought the wiz handled it without exposing a possible issue down the road and didnt overspend.

i would prefer to look at philly, another relevant example and what they did this summer. it is another team ahead of us and one that started its rebuild after us with the termination of a i to denver. they have been aggressive in first courting smith and then pulling the rug out from under smith, the clips and the baron. which way are we headed in comparison to them?

that is the way to run a franchise, not the way sund has done it when he cant take the time or make the effort to sit down with chills and look him in the eye and develop a relationship. i dont know if that is poor judgment or being poor financially but i have long excused the hawks and management for certain decisions based on lack of funds and even gave cred to bk with some of his decisions, especially the pick of shels as the only way he could get a big in to the rotation without the funds necessary to pay for a big.

if it ends up sund didnt meet with chills there is no way to excuse it jhan. you cant spin it any other way that to say what were they thinking and were they inviting him to leave?

as for the divorce it was not thrust on them and a decision that they are paying for as they played that hand maybe against belkin in a coup as it turned out, certain comments from a basg member point in that direction as sad as it might seem. egos and money and we are trapped in its down draft.

no jhan, they brought it upon themselves and us just as they didnt do due diligence to lose chills while saying they were not taking it seriously. another example is how they were out maneuvered legally in its contract for settlement with belkin. how does it keep happening over and over?

the tough reality jhan is that even if they win the divorce and keep the team, they and we lose as they were needing another partner. if they dont bring in capital with yet another partner they still are underfunded. ugly!

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

i’ll say this other thing on SMOOVE and CHILS. for all those hatin’ on SMOOVE, pls remember this cat enhanced his game more than MARVIN and CHILS. granted he might have had farther to go than either of the two but at least he knew it/knows it and was/is willing to put in the extra work on ‘all’ the things that i and others have ragged him about regardin’ his game.

so for all you cats knockin’ his game now DO NOT deny the work this cat has put in and continues to do so. and in that regards his ‘IQ’ seems to be better than CHILS and MARVIN!!!!

By drmaryb

August 2, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Hey Doc IF my money was a long as yours or as L - O - N - G as Ando’s DIATRIBES?

Then I could BLOG all day & all the time……But since Chiropractors have to work like a Third - World - Immigrant just to make a living in this GREAT Country we all live in - It’s impossible for me to live on here!

But PUH-Lease don’t mistake that little fact for a lack of INTENSITY or FERVOR for this PATHETIC TEAM STRUCTURE & all of it’s non-working PARTS!

i.e. ASG!

I truly love this team and I literally cried when a character guy and team player like J-Chills was allowed to walk away with not so much as a press conference or statement from the so-called owners!

(He did everything they asked him to do & could have done a lot more is was *ASKED!)*

We never saw all of his TRUE potential here - under WOODY!

If we don’t value character like that? Then hell we may as well go and get Ronnie Artest ala: HOUSTON…..Lets get us some THUGS! and Just Win Baby !

Doc I am so disgusted with this off-Season …which looks no different than the SEASON!

Disappointing!

I am exhausted now …You can find me at MIENEKE And, like GEORGE F. & the ASG

I am not gonna pay a lot for this MUFFLER

By HHoops

August 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Sign & Trade Smooth for JR Smith, L. Kleiza & a draft pick. Denver would go for that and that trade would work with the salaries involved. Look, I don’t want to lose Smooth no more than anyone else, but all indications are that ASG does not want to or are not finacially able to pay 11-13 M for him. I understand that they may be in a bind with this ligation with Belkin coming up in February. Get what you can get to improve the team. Don’t sign him for one year and then get nothing as he walks away.

Look @ this potential line up:

Starters-Bibby/JR Smith/JJ/Horford/Zaza

Bench-Acie/Speedy/Evans/Marvin/Kleiza/Morris/L. Jackson/Solomon

We are quicker and more athletic than last year. We have better perimeter shooters. We are better defensively. We will have to continue to look for post help, but we are not going to get any @ this point in the summer anyway. At some point in the season, if Acie and Speedy are playing fine, we could maybe move Bibby for a BIG before the trade deadline.

By BravesFan79

August 2, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

good call Sekou… we all know GT… NOT Duke….has had the best guards!!
GT HOOPS IS BACK!!

By richbrave

August 2, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

doc:

Since you brought up Washington. Wiz should have let one-legged ARENAS walk. That’s all he’ll be good for now anyway after that double whammy on his knee.

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

HHoops, yours is one of the better trades i’ve seen for SMOOVE!! and it would get the team value in return!! the ‘only’ place i differ from you is to me KLEIZA would send MARVIN to the bench not JJ to the 3. for as much as JJ will post his smaller opponent at the 2, ‘to me’ JJ is NOT suited as a 3!! he’s right where he needs to be and does the most damage and that’s at the 2. he’s got the game of a big 2 IMHO. but hey, other than that, your trade scenario looks good to me…if we gotta lose JS!!! if we gotta…

By doc

August 2, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

hey, dr m b your HIGHLIGHTS more than make up for anythong(originally a typo but it must have been freudian) my long winded notes can say. i guess i dont have as much emphasis in my words. babe as far as the work schedule thing i can assure you, i put in my time and still do but to a lesser extent. having one 58 hour day as a fellow in houston and many 30 hour on and 18 hours ours off days for months at a time tossed in there at grady doing trauma, i paid my dues. much cred to you and i wish you well. when you break down you know where to come for acupuncture and herbs. heh heh

richie, i think they must be expecting insurance to cover that one. it still makes no sense. what they have proven is their word and protected their brand which in times of trouble is important. needless to say our group of merry owners still have not been humbled enough to get on with business.

my take on the chills thing is they wanted to have evans signed in house before continuing “negotiations” so they could tell chills he isnt as important to the team as there was a replacement for him on the bench. i wouldnt put it past these guys as they try to leverage up their rights and literally turn off everyone around them. they are NOT TAKING CARE OF THEIR BRAND NAME, simple as that and they will find it will cost them in the end as they get the wrong type of press.

yup, there is still time to salvage it but the clock ticks. chills was smart for getting his ducks in a row or he would have gotten screwed financially. i dont think smith would be able to do what chills did because it takes a special person to make the move chills did and turn a lemon into something sweet.

By Nookah

August 2, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

HB Ando, I like your commentary. However, let me say that even though I agree that the ASG are strapped for cash, they are being shrewd and not offering too much money to JS. However, while Cesar is fiddling, Rome is burning. I think they are being too shrewd and may end up outsmarting themselves and establishing some badwill (I coigned that one) not only with Josh but with the fans. In addition I think they are driving a wedge between themselves and all other future FA’s.

Don’t forget we have Horford, JJ and Marvin (I know some people don’t like him), coming up soon. How will they feel about returning to a franchise that treats their players with disdain? I really hope the fences can be mended. I also hope the relationship is not as bad as it seems to us fans.

I am cautiously optimistic even though the signs are not encouraging. I am sure the ASG is thinking about ticket sales and know the value of JS as it relates to that. However, I have to wonder what impact Belkin is having on these negotiations. Doesn’t he have to agree on signings in excess of a particular amount? Can someone enlighten me, Sekou anyone?

Ken S you are right. Can you imagine we get back a healthy Speedy and we are able to mend the gorge with JS and ourselves? I also believe Marvin will have a great season. I like the guy and I think he is an improving player. This team will make some noise in the East and as someone said earlier….winning cures everything!!!!

Go Hawks!!!!

Nuff Respect!!!!

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

DOC, you might be right on the EVANS and CHILS thing but i tend not to think that was the case. afterall, didn’t EVANS first agree to sign with GSW ‘before’ Kelenna Azubuike was re-signed. so to me, the BASG were even ‘lucky’ to walk away with the EVANS signin’ regardless of how they were approachin’ the CHILS thing. whatever the case was/is, it still points to BRAINLESS…CLUELESS…USELESS…PERIOD!!!! B-CUP!!!! (as MannyT would say)

By doc

August 2, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

yup myk, maybe, maybe not. if it wasnt evans it might have been someone else and it is why it made no sense for chills to wait as he wasnt their priority. he knew it and made a very smart move for many reasons.

some are excited about the speedy return. it doesnt help us all that much, speedy doesnt give us anything as three point guards cant be on the floor at the same time even is 22 mil is tied up in them. bibby better be good or be gone. he and speedy cant be on the court at the same time because of size issues no matter how good speedy is as a defender and bibby as a shooter. together evans, speedy and bibby may push acie farther down the depth chart further diminishing his role if any.

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

as much as i was ACIE’s #1 supporter to start the season, it’s NO DOUBT he suffered under HINDSIGHT!!! and at this point there is NO WAY IN HELL i would have a backcourt of ACIE and SPEEDY!!! BIBBY is CLEARLY the BEST PG we have, regardless of his salary.

who knows, if this stupid a$$ BASG is ready to start over then yep, we’ll see SMOOVE and BIBBY outta here. another year under BIBBY and ACIE will be ready IMHO (well dependin’ on the BRAINLESS HC of course). but SPEEDY…he has NO SHOT and personally i didn’t think he ran the team well even in the games he did play. but that’s just me…

By OEIJTH

August 2, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this

WOULD YOU PEOPLE STOP ALL THE P** AND MOANING ABOUT SMITH. YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THE ASG, GM, OR EVEN WOODSON ARE PLANNING TO DO WITH THE SITUATION. WHAT EVER YOU THINK ARE THEIR SHORTCOMMINGS, YOU ARE IN A POSITION TO KNOW LESS. YOU ARE CRITICAL OF THINGS YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT, INCLUDING THE AUTHOR OF THIS BLOG.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 2, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

“BIBBY is CLEARLY the BEST PG we have, regardless of his salary.”

I agree, but unfortunately we can’t disregard salary while the A.S.S. is owning this team. The real comparison shouldn’t be between Bibby and Acie, it should be between Bibby and Smoove due to their salaries. And I don’t think there’s any doubt that if/when forced to keep one or the other, Smoove is the guy to keep.

I think this is also a good time to bring up the comparison I make pretty often with regards to Acie — Rajon Rondo was an inexperienced, inconsistent second-year point guard last year who got a chance to start and play his way through his problems, and he succeeded. Of course we don’t have a team full of proven All-Stars here to take the pressure off him like the Celtics do, but we do have good enough talent that he wouldn’t have to do too much. If we traded Bibby and started Acie next year I don’t think we would be regretting it by around January, especially if we get better bench depth in return for Bibby.

By Glutton for Punishment

August 2, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

Hey Doc…. don’t remind me of those days. I think I am suffering from Post traumatic stess disorder from residency….hee hee 36hr on & 12 off for 10 days straight….. YIKES !!!

By jhan

August 2, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this

Have to agree with you doc. Funding has to be the main issue with these clowns. If they had the money to spend, this team would look much different.

At this rate the Hawks should have about $50 million in cap space for the 2010 season. By then everyone on the team will be gone. Maybe they are trying to pull a coup by signing Lebron, Wade & Bosh all in the same offseason! Talk about a big 3. LOL

By clint

August 2, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

havent gotten to check the blog in a few days. Sorry if i offended you sekou, didn’t mean that you weren’t trying to get a quote from smoove, just thought it would be a good idea. smoove could have said something a few days ago and it could have gone under the radar with Brett Favre and Manny Ramirez talking so much.

Again, the hawks are signing minimum wage players while the rest of the league, and now the world, gobbles up our young players that have developed right before our eyes.

By KevinM

August 2, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Reading this blog and watching the activity over this summer has convinced me that the ASG is simply not going to sign anyone of significance to this team. Apparently, they feel they won the 3 playoff games last year and that no one deserves more than market value for their efforts. I agree, we should not be excited about giving players multi year contracts when we haven’t gotten to .500 in the Woody era. Fact is, Woody’s pay should be based on wins alone. While I don’t see Smoove getting a significant increase over the reported 5/45M deal, look for this team to go into camp with him probably not even reporting to camp.
It will be interesting to see what happens come October, so while we wait, the ASG will continue to get bad press not solidifying a playoff contending team and possibly going thru what Cleveland did with Varajeo and Pavlovic at the beginning of the season. IMO, that ruined Cleveland’s season from the get-go and put them behind in trying to catch Boston all season. That team is better than what we see here and should have things in place this year to make a run at the Finals again. I wonder how that would feel in Atlanta?

By doc

August 2, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

GFP, yes it is a major sleep disorder and post traumatic stress disorder to boot. fortunately for me those days are so far behind me it isnt quite as damaging to remember. heh heh/

MYK, agree speedy didnt exactly blow me away with his ability to “spark” the offense when he was in charge. maybe he couldnt quite get the subtle intricacies of the woody offense. again, we are getting excited about the return of a full time back up just like evans is a full time journeyman. spin it like you want maybe evans can change his persona but for now it is his M O. next year if he has done the job then we can say it otherwise, just dont blow the smoke from the crack pipe my way please, second hand smoke is lethal.

By gumpspeed

August 2, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

Hey Hawks. You guys can have Boris and your number one pick back for Josh! So Josh for JJ….Still you guys got the better deal!! Heck you don’t need him anyways. Atl isn’t going anywhere. Let Joe avg 26 pts a game and show how good he can be by himself. He doesn’t care about winning anyways. If he did why would he have went there??!! Ugh!!

By mykhalc

August 2, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

DOC, you directin’ that pipe thing at me and my take on EVANS replacin’ CHILS????

By doc

August 2, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

myk, if the pipe fits smoke it dude. heh heh, i think many have tried to pass that sund pipe, just not ready to inhale that sh!t man.

RAY, the guys trashin on chills for going for the money and not wanting to prove himself and go for the nba championship as though the hawks are going to contend for it in this and the next decade ;arent they the ones who sing the praise of JJ who accepted a deal for 10 mil more so he could play on a team destined to win fewer games in three years as the former team he played essentially won in one? now isnt it the same player jj who walked away from a team that had a definite chance for the ring because he felt he wasnt getting the cred he deserved, the love and respect he should have gotten from his teammates and his owner for a little ole 10 mil? wasnt that the dispute and to carry it further didnt he say to the owner he didnt want them to match because he was unhappy there with the way he was treated without respect by many including amare and the owner and walk away form the competition of playing on a championship team and wanting INSTEAD to be the man on a loser the hawks and earn a few 10 mil more? didnt he walk away from a team on who if he had stayed legitimately had a chance for the ring. wasnt this all for a little 10 mil just like chills went for? how could he? now who are they fooling, themselves and idiots who fall in line for that line of thinking against chills? isnt that the owners, sund, kirk and realists take on the matter or close to it? isnt that the apologist’s poor rationalization for the ineptness and complacency of the BASG?

you would think the last few statements were to describe chills when in fact describes to a T none other than our fearless leader who blames others for not leading. it is JJ himself.

RAY, though the proceeding testimony doesnt quite qualify for the blog crimes unit, funny how the spin turns on itself you know? if they truly get the relevance of the past few paragraphs, will they realize their own absurd theatre? definitely shakespearian or greek tragic theatre.

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

DOC, you sooooo far off on this one that i have to wonder what you been into in your spare time!!!???!!LOL i think you ‘might’ just ‘might’ need to go back and re-read my posts!!! i called CHILS out for NOT improvin’ his shot…PERIOD!!! and EVANS brings a shot at least!!! now as far as CHILS goin’ to get his money…could care less and glad he did what he needed to do, for him!!! but wait ‘til the GREEKS see his shot is all i can say!!! they’re gonna make him pay his ‘own’ taxes!!!LOL and that ain’t hatin’ either ‘cause i dig CHILS!!! but after 4 years in the f’n league, dude shoulda found a shot…PERIOD!!! now put down that pipe DOC and re-read my posts!!!LOL and come back with some accuracy my karmic bro!!!LOL

By doc

August 3, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

myk dont take it personal man unless the shoe fits and it wasnt really directed at you as much as it was reflecting ia bit on what gump said and what some have thrown on chills as they forget it sonds very similar to what JJ said as he burned bridges to get here … remember?

dude, we will never agree on chills shot as there are few other awkward shooters in the league includng marion that works well. as far as the idea of changing that shot remember that experiment didnt work either. that is not what i was referring to. it was like askng arnold palmer to chnge to make his swing look like tigers, it just wasnt going to work and it didnt work as many including me said it wouldnt . chills went back to it and he was the most reliable percentage wise even from the three point line. also seems he got passed up for his shot a lot by his team mates and was one of the reasons he left.

dern dude calm down bro, nothin but fun unless you feel the gult because i am not throwing it. it is the pain body wthin that tolle talks about, not me. heh heh, there you go thinkin i am dissin your karma! ;-))

By ray

August 3, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

Doc,

I have to say that you’re on the money. That’s exactly what Joe Johnson did to come here. Am I glad he came here? Yes. If it weren’t for the very attitude that he had that you correctly say kirk accuses Childress of, we wouldn’t have a player like that. According to this argument, one would have to assume a similar line of thinking in that JJ didn’t have the drive to play with the best and compete at such a high level (for the NBA championship), but instead came here to settle for much more money (and a role not unlike a bigger fish in a smaller pond). In fact, how many players have done such a thing throughout history? Are there fundamental differences that make it different somehow?

Unfortunately, not all consider discussions such as these to be the challenging reparte and dialogue that they are. No, this is only bullying, which we should be obstaining from. I think that an answer or rebuttal of some sort in response to the argument presented (and not whatever personal issues apparently exist) would be interesting for the purpose of further dialogue, but I am not expecting one. The challenge of an efficient and credible rebuttal may be too much, leading to the concession of a point (though there is no harm in that from either side of the argument). However, suggesting that such a thing might indeed happen….well, that’s just bullying.

Aside from that, I’ve long been disappointed in JJ’s complaints about leadership. I say this, absolutely loving JJ as a player. But was he not brought here to be the cornerstone of the “new” Hawks era? Is he not a team captain? How many times have I said this over the last year or so…

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

DOC, all i can say is when you address me and follow ALL comments in that ‘same’ paragraph, in my mind you are ‘still’ talkin’ to me!!! i ain’t got no guilt bro i just wanna be clear if i’m the one you’re talkin’ to. if i ain’t then my bad!!! you know i’m courteous like that bro. address those that are addressin’ me!!! so i gotta be clear!!!LOL

regardin’ CHILS shot, like MARION’s, i don’t care that it’s ugly. i care that he didn’t choose to use it…much…enough. i knew ANYTIME CHILS had the ball he was gonna go to the rim. now that ain’t all bad. but it does allow his defender to play off of him and wait for the move. thus advantage defender!! that’s all i’m sayin’!!! we clear???

By ray

August 3, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Mykhalc, I understand what you say about Childress and Evans. I have to disagree on a couple of ideas, though.

I like the Evans signing, so don’t get me wrong there. However, Evans is a different player altogether than Childress. Both are good defenders. Evans is definitely a better “shooter.”

However, Childress was used in a variety of ways: as a 4 in a very small lineup, as a 2 or 3 many times, and often as a pg…bringing the ball up the court. Evans doesn’t do all of that. He’s pretty much either a 2 or a 3. Childress is a fundamentally sound defender. He’s probably better at guarding SGs, but how often was he placed against a superior 3 when Marvin couldn’t guard the guy? Not only that, but Childress is an opportunistic scorer.

I think he’ll always give you more boards than Evans will on both ends of the court. And he works the baselines A LOT. Evans will get you more three pointers. Now, take a look at their stats. Consider if you will, that Evans has been in the league longer, and in professional basketball overall longer as well:

Childress career stats:

11.1ppg, 5.6 rpg, 1.8apg, 1.0spg, %52FG, %36 3pt FG, %80FT

Evans career stats: 7.0 ppg, 2.6rpg, 0.9apg, 0.5spg, %45FG, %36.6 3pt FG, %77FT

Bearing in mind that statistics don’t tell the whole story, I concede the point that Childress has an awful looking shot, and Evans’ shot looks much better. However, Evans doesn’t shoot nearly the percentage that Childress does. Last year’s stats really magnify that. Evans shot %48 on FG last year. Childress shot a whopping %57. That’s what the best centers and power forwards shoot…from an area that is usually 4-5 feet from the basket on in.

But here’s another difference. Evans hit 81 3s last year. Childress only hit 22.

The way I see it, Evans is not a replacement for Childress…BUT, he would’ve made the perfect compliment to him coming off the bench. Imagine both of those guys coming off of the bench to spell our starting 2 and 3. What a combo. One guy to really work the boards, baseline, and backdoor cuts…the other to hit the outside shot and slash/drive. It would’ve been nice…

By ray

August 3, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

Myk, I see your point, but is that a design flaw in the offense, improper execution by the team as a whole, or simpy just Childress’ fault?

Childress did often get to open spots to hit his jumpers, but more often than not, he was ignored. Guess who found him the most when he spotted up? The one guy many (but not you) think is the dullest tool in the shed: yep none other than Josh Smith. People forget how much of a teammate Josh Smith was. Those 3.5 assists per game weren’t an accident.

Getting back on topic, here’s another example of a design flaw, and typical Woodson-drawn play:

JJ gets the ball and goes ISO. He drives towards the top of the key and then floats in past the free throw line, drawing no less than 2, and very likely 3 defenders. The others are standing around, Josh Smith is near or beyond the arc. JJ sees the gap closing and passes to Josh Smith. Nobody wants him to take that shot. Not even me. But where’s he going to go? Towards the basket (which is where we scream for him to go)….where those three defenders (drawn by JJ) are waiting? Saw that happen so many times in so many games that it just wasn’t funny.

There you have a design flaw mixed with a lack of execution. There needs to be more motion in the offense. One thing that helps is running the offense through a big like Horford. Doesn’t mean he has to score every time, but it takes the pressure off of JJ, who is picking up two or more defenders for the predictable play.

The idea is to put pressure on the defense, not pressure on yourself! But then, this is a Woodson issue for the most part…

By ray

August 3, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

drmaryb, third world immigrant? Girl, you are OFF THE CHAIN, LOL! I laughed like hell at that one…

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

BIG RAY, like i said, i hate to see CHILS go. he and JJ definitely had the highest bball IQs on the team!!! and all that you say is on point. what i’m tryin’ to call point to is where CHILS let himself and the team down…his weakness was that he developed no shot. or better yet he did NOT the develop the ‘mindset’ to take the shot. ‘cause he had PLENTY of chances to take ‘em. but he ‘chose’ not to…for whatever reason. my reasonin’ is he did not have confidence in it. and that my friend, took away from his game and ‘maybe’ his value in SUND’s mind!!!??? i’m just sayin’….CHILS coulda done himself and his game better by havin’ a shot that he was willin’ to take!!! all i’m tryin’ to say.

and to your point…”That’s what the best centers and power forwards shoot…from an area that is usually 4-5 feet from the basket on in.” and this was the range CHILS showed bro. and playin’ the 2/3 he shoulda been better at stretchin’ the defense. with a shot, he woulda been able to do exactly that!!!

By doc

August 3, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

sorry myk only the first paragraph referred to you. heh heh go back and read it yourself and laugh, the rest is directed to ray and that was it, the rest was a ramble and reflection again on gump and what it brought up regarding jj leaving the suns and the crap he got for doing it .. the same sh!t that we hear cast on chills.i t is kind of like the jilted lover sour grapes, you know the song .. i didnt love you anyway, now that i think about it and i gave you all i own.

myk, listen to chills interview on 790 zone it is up to listen to. i saw many times he was open and ignored and he mentioned just that fact. as far as going to the rim dont you wish marvin had gone to greece instead of chills as he NEVER goes to the rim without tripping or shoot the long range ball. his numbers are very deceiving as he shoots his fair percentage and he is always open because he shoots so poorly from close in he isnt covered.

and yes i am glad jj chose to down grade his competitive spirit and come here. just like the greeks are that chills has gone to give them a bit of credibility. yes ray chills needed to be kept and evans brought in as well. no excuse for not doing it two different players with different skill sets exclusive of the other but could have been very complimentary for the second line to relieve the starting five along with zaza and myk’s man crush acie!!!! ;-)) or speedy, throw in a legit power forward or slide horford (think another man crush of myk’s) down to the 4 and we would be cooking with the second unit, too.

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

BIG RAY, i would never put it all on CHILS. but i will say this. most of us have played organized, competitive ball. so we know how it is/was when ‘someone’ on our team is/was NOT gettin’ it done. in practice, it was usually made clear, for example, ‘if you are not gonna take the shot when you’re open then you will not see the ball’. it’s just the way it is. and we all know that!!!

WOODSON is USELESS so i know it starts there. but CHILS not takin’ the shot, from 15ft out, does ‘mostly’ lie on him…IMHO!!!

By ray

August 3, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

Well, Myk that is certainly one way of looking at it. But what have we always said about Chills? He manages to score in double figures throughout his career despite no plays being run for him. Would you agree to that? Yep…read it again. No plays run for him. Remember, this guy is known for being a team player, a role player, a coachable player. If Woodson wanted him to shoot it, he would’ve. I don’t see how Childress could NOT have confidence in a shot that was falling more often than more “prolific” shooters.

Do we not see Josh Smith determined to expand his game? How often has he come under fire for it? Why do we suppose he is shooting all those jumpers and 3 pointers? It doesn’t just happen in practice, you have to do it in games. That’s the difference. I think Chills was really trying to do what Woody wanted him to do. He was capable of more. Again: he did these things without having the plays run for him. No two ways about it. A guy like Childress doesn’t force the issue. Perhaps he should have. Then we would have been getting all this press about Childress being a malcontent and not a team player, for being selfish and not passing the ball. Damned if you do, damned if you don’t. Chill played a role. Was it his job to expand that role, or the job of he head coach?

I’m not trying to convince you that I’m right or that you’re wrong. I’m really just voicing some thoughts I’ve had since Childress left, that’s all. Hinsight speculation for the most part. I do see your point, though. I just wonder if it was only a matter of him expanding his game…and consider the fact that Marvin hasn’t expanded his either….hmmmm.

By SalimFan

August 3, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this

Ray, Yeah I’m really Excited about Luke Jackson……If he’s actually given the oppourtunity to play.

Evans is an exellent player and he shouldn’t be trashed like some of you are doing to him. BUT I wills say that as a SF there are not many thet rebound the basketball like Childress did.

I do not think speedy should be put ahead of Acie in the depth charts. Acie’s defensive pressure on the ball is just as good as Speedys and Acie is a much better shooter. Acie has more potential and should be given PT accordingly. Speedy needs to be traded. Why are we giving him that king of money ewhen Acie can come in and do the exact same thing?

Sekou, Is there any word on which Summer leauge players will be invited to training camp yet???

By ray

August 3, 2008 1:54 AM | Link to this

I hear ya, Myk. It does begin with Woodson. Although…I’m just waiting for someone to come in here and start yammering about how the player deserves at least some of the responsibility and all that damn rot…

Ahem…anyway, yes, the open shot should be taken. But if we’re going to admonish one player for not doing it, then we cannot continue to admonish guys like Josh Smith for doing it, know what I mean? Not saying that YOU were doing this, but some people do. Then they come back and say they didn’t. And it just goes from there…typical summer fare, LOL!

Doc, yeah I wish we could’ve had it that way. To me, that would’ve been a team improvement simply because the bench would’ve been strengthened (through versatility). No longer a need to have a very tight 7-8 man rotation. Besides, one likes to be prepared if injuries strike for a significant amount of time, yes?

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 2:00 AM | Link to this

DOC, RAY, i KNOW all 3 of us appreciate CHILS…PERIOD!!! but as much as i appreciated EVERYTHIN’ he did away from the ball, with NO plays called for him, i could get just as frustrated with him when he would not take the shot that the defense was darin’ him to take. instead of takin’ ‘that’ shot, he would inevitably go baseline…maybe 75-80% of the time. not always good when the defense KNOWS that!!!

and RAY your part about MARVIN, dead on!!! but just as all 3 of us, get on MW and JS, for not havin’ expanded parts of their game last year, i CANNOT give CHILS a free pass on what i feel like were his weaknesses to himself and the team!!! just like MW needs to learn how to finish and JS needs to be a bit smarter with his choices at times, CHILS, in 4 years in the league, shoulda had a shot that he and the team coulda depended on him to take!!!!

yep RAY, you are right. i wish it was MARVIN goin’ to GREECE instead!!!

By ray

August 3, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

SalimFan, I don’t agree with anybody that’s trashing Evans. He is what he is, and we’ll get to see firsthand. I think the problem comes in where people are expecting a role player to be something he’s not. The dude isn’t going to all of the sudden become an all-star. But he will help.

As far as Luke Jackson goes, I think we need to invite him to camp. See how he does. If he’s as effective as I think he’ll be, sign him. He’s more of a pure shooter than anybody on the roster, but from watching some of his summer league stuff…dude knows how to move the ball around as well, and his defense isn’t too bad. He knows how to get to the line. What’s odd is that with the exception of one game, Jeremy Richardson was the opposite of Luke Jackson…..I don’t know, maybe he’ll get another chance in camp and will show better. He stunk it up in the SL.

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

s/b…yep DOC, you are right. i wish it was MARVIN goin’ to GREECE instead!!!

SalimFan, on point about ACIE doin’ what SPEEDY can do and better…no doubt!!!

By doc

August 3, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

er myk, i think i said that @1:42 . there you go not reading my posts completely again.

By ray

August 3, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

Who knows, Myk. Perhaps the change of scenery would be exactly what he needs to improve upon that part of his game. I don’t know that he would’ve had as good a chance here under Woodson. Just don’t know…

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

DOC, LOL. i caught myself…see!!!

By doc

August 3, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

we are all for the most part in agreement.

got your correction myk. just goofin and not taking too much serious here at least.

salimfan that might be the kiss of death on luke if your salim worship follows suit on woody ‘s attitude.

By mykhalc

August 3, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

we have concensus!!! congress should take notes!!!LOL

By doc

August 3, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

shuttin her down, getting my daughter to a flight in the am to the nw area.

later.

By gumpspeed

August 3, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Are you guys saying that Josh can’t shoot and he is one demensional? If that be the case then I want to keep Boris. I was looking for a 3pt defensive wizard. As a Suns fan I am bitter (I cling to my guns and religion) that JJ had ,cry baby attitude with us. We definately would have won the championship with him and Amare in 05, instead of Bell and Diaw. The Suns would have repeated in 06-07. Could have won that year without Nash’s nose, Donaghy and the suspension. Maybe the would have won it if JJ hadn’t fractured his face in 05 playoffs. That’s a three peat. Heck the Suns might have fourpeated!! Wow! JJ is weak!!! You will never win with a guy like that.

By SalimFan

August 3, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Doc, Now way lol. I’m the ultimate good luck charm (Chases away black cat standing in front of my car) heh.

By terrell barron

August 3, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

With the addition of Morris, we now have a 3 man rotation at center, which makes it EXTREMELY necessary to re sign Smoove. And I think the deal will be completed by next week sometime. Look at these lineups that we could throw out there. Marvin at the 3, Smoove at the 4, Horford at the 5/ Smoove at the 3, Horford at the 4, Morris at the 5/ Marvin at the 3, Horford at the 4 Zaza or Morris at the 5/ Marvin at the 3, Smoove at the 4, Horford at the 5/ Evans at the 3, Morris at the 4, Horford at the 5, Evans at the 3, Smoove at the 4, Morris at the 5, Evans at the 2, JJ at the 3, Smoove at the 4, Horford at the 5, etc…. For the 1st time in years, we’d have a TON of options. I said last last week theat Josh would be signed, and I stick by that. lol! Patience my friends, Patience. lol!!

By tbhawksfan

August 3, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Any rotation that counts Moris can’t be called a good rotation. He needs to step it way up before you even want to talk about him.

By ray

August 3, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

You’re right. Josh will be signed. Signed to a one year deal, signed and traded, signed to a multi-year deal. Those are the options, and doubt seriously that he’ll be signed in Europe.

By terrell barron

August 3, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

Spin it how you want it.Morris isbig, with some offensive skills. When Zaza Sruggles we now have another option that we did’nt have last year.

By MannyT

August 3, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

dr mary b Cracking me up. I stepped out and had a chat with a 3rd world immigrant. He said can I trade one of those adjustment tables for 2 cows, 40 acres and a mule. He’ll keep the bad back for some milk and crops.

I know that you med types (adding doc, gfp etc) work hard. But it does scare me that someone makes life altering decisions while sleep deprived. On the cash side, it’s like plumbers and electricians with much more hate because of the social status. Notice how few people are jealous of folks that make huge cash, but look like blue collar workers. Put in 80 hours, wear a tie, drive a nice car, and you are the evil rich. I like that people who make life and death decisions are in a small exclusive club.

I saw that in 2003, about 1 in 266 folks in the US are doctors. Imagine if the process for health care meant counting off in Philips. Every 266th person makes a medical diagnosis on the people in their section the next time there is an illness.

That would be life (russian) roulette PAIN ;-)

By MannyT

August 3, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Back to hoops…

Someone said it before, Evans would have been an excellent addition to the bench to bring in with Chills. Josh could have done his offensive thing along the baseline while Mo worked the perimeter. You would not have to run plays for either, but both would be active options for the pass if left open. Defensively, it makes switching easier when the perimeter guys can guard multiple positions. The downside to only Evans is no slashing on the baseline to grab boards and I doubt he will run the point in spurts like Chills did.

ray You hit the prime directive in the pro athlete’s revenue rule book. Any money that you can make that is tied to your celebrity, but not directly to your sport (i.e. endorsements) is worth far more than contract cash. It does not have a cap and can sustain you far longer and better than money from a team. Look at what Jordan dealt with in his latter playing years with the Wizards. No more VP of Poor Drafting. Bounced out of the Wiz. Somehow, he still puts his Haynes on you and keeps more 3rd world folks working for Nike than you can shake a stick at!

jhan you hit it on the head! I responded to Ando about this a few days back. The impact of all this madness does not show up in season tickets this year, but next year. We have already made our commitments based on how things looked in the spring. The ASG summer switch may bother folks, but it doesn’t reverse previously made financial commitments from season ticket holders, media outlets, and advertisers that lock in deals in advance.

I hope the side of the divorce that gets the Hawks also gets the case of Brand-Aid.

OLE

By terrell barron

August 3, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Manny, Who needs Chills to run the point? We have Bibby, Acie, and hopefully Speedt for that. I did’nt like it when Woody used Chills at the 1 anyway. It took him away from the basket, where he did the most damage. They did’nt call him the “BASELINE BANDIT” for nothing.

By MannyT

August 3, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

terrell Chills running the point was another option and level of flexibility that he provided to the team. Not saying it was his best role, but it gave the team options. The more ways you can adjust your lineup w/o making substitutions, the better your team can exploit the opponent.

You’re plucking the inch of difference versus the mile of agreement.

Josh could have done his offensive thing along the baseline while Mo worked the perimeter.

OLE

By darrell starks

August 3, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

SELL THE TEAM ASG.GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ray

August 3, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Who needs Chill at the point? If you watched any of the games last year, you already know who needed him at the point. Now…don’t confuse whether he was needed at the point with who needed him at the point.

Speaking of points….

That was a very good point, Manny. The more versatile a player is, the more you can do with him without substituting. And that’s how it worked last year…and the year before…and so on. Of course, this can also be taken too far, hence the idea that JJ could be our point guard. At this point (no pun intended…okay a little), the rate of return on JJ’s versatility was far in the negative, unable to match the investment of the idea. And that was because that one capability was undermining his most important capabilities…from both a personal and team benefit standpoint.

Also Manny, you’re right on how endorsements last much longer than contracts. Jordan will have his shoe line, cologne, and Hanes contracts long enough for a generation to be born who doesn’t even know what he looks like or who he is/was. Like you said, he could live on that alone. Which brings me to another point:

I believe that this is one of the bigger, but unmentioned reasons why the biggest NBA names stay, and the lesser names are more prone to going abroad (now that Childress has seemingly paved a newer path to go alongside those that have been around for a while). The rumors say that Olympiakos or perhaps some other European power may make a run at Lebron James when he becomes a free agent. Unlike vice versa, European teams need not worry about contract buyouts. They can just swoop in and take NBA players once they become free agents, whether restricted or unrestricted (as we have seen). No worrying about tying up money or the other team matching (well, in most cases I guess).

But here’s the catch: if all else is equal, the NBA player wants to know where he stands the best chance to make the most money, be it contractually and/or fame. In the U.S., many endorsements are possible. Ask Derrick Rose which shoe company he picked already. I think it was Adidas. Does Europe offer the same level of endorsement riches? If not, that helps explain the big names staying, does it not?

Just a thought, and certainly not an attempt at a complete explanation.

You’re plucking the inch of difference versus the mile of agreement.

I’ve noticed that lately. And it’s only been lately. Strange.

By terrell barron

August 3, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Woulda, Coulda, Shoulda. Manny, Josh is gone, get over it.

By terrell barron

August 3, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

If you guys like Chills at the 1, I’m glad your not the coach. It took away what he did best. Plus NO ONE respects his shot. I’d RATHER play JJ at the 1 than Childress, and that’s saying something. But who cares? He’s in Greece.

By doc

August 3, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

so sad to note the passing of legend skip carey. what a distinctive voice, irreverent observer of the game, and truly a blessing to listen to over the years of good and bad times for the braves. ii dont think i could have suffered any longer with milo. and what a fresh breath of air it was to have skip around to replace him.

By ray

August 3, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Doc,

Skip, Don, Joe, and Pete. A “barbershop quartet” that was the very tune of Braves baseball to me. A representation of good old-fashioned baseball and so good that I didn’t even have to be watching the game. Skip will be missed, and not just by his broadcasting partners.

By ray

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

terrell, please do point out who said that they liked having Childress playing the point. When you find ‘em, let me know. I think you might recall that when JJ was given the task of pg some years ago, there was an outcry on this blog (as most of us knew it was a mistake, especially given the so-called “design” of our offense). So it has been for the last year when Childress was often assuming such duties. I know I railed against it often myself.

Funny that you say “I’m glad you’re not the coach” (to whomever that was directed)…because as I recall, the person who kept playing Childress in that position was the coach. And as alluded to before, this is another thing in a long line of things that people have been giving Woodson crap for. Rightfully so, in my opinion. I think we would all agree (well, at least present company) that this was not a good position by far for either player to be in for any significant length of time. Well, unless of course you’re not in an agreeing mood.

By ray

August 3, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

Gosh Manny, I didn’t know you were so distraught over the “loss” of Childress. Heh. I’d call it a little reminiscing about the not-so-distant past, but then that’s no fun when the object of the game (apparently) is to try and push buttons…

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

I step away from the computer and return to find out that it’s a war of words. Who knew? I didn’t. In any case, no worries.

tb I won’t take the easy way and slap your words around like w******* at the players ball. You can look at what you wrote and I wrote and figure it out. No more Chills for you.

Just remember feeble arguments intimidate losers i.e. FAIL. I’m calling it 40% bored, 60% amused, with no intimidation. Sorry.

In the meantime, I do find it amusing that the signing of Morris was your trigger to make the resigning of Josh Smith EXTREMELY necessary.

Different folks have different triggers. Shoot ‘em how you like ‘em.

As far as flexibility, we started last season with Shelden & Lorenzen as additional pieces in the front court instead of Morris. They gave you as much flexibility as Morris and six more fouls. I hope Morris brings some offense, but I don’t think it will be seen in games unless someone in the front court gets hurt.

doc Thanks for the heads up. I’m very sorry to hear about Skip Caray. At least he got to do his thing until the end. I know he didn’t call as many games this season, but I do recall hearing him some on the radio. RIP

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

ray You are very pointy tonight. Is your spy name Procupine ;-)

You are right that the big names have lots of endorsement cash to make..normally here. But let the econmy keep doing funky things. Budweiser gets bought up by a Belgian company and the next thing you know, it’s all waffles and tulips!

Those quiet commericals that get done outside of the US could become the mainstay for major endorsement deals to suck some guy away who can enjoy living abroad (Kobe at 35?). It would be a reverse David Beckham thing.

I could see a former Hawk with big hair pushing some olive oil for the locals ;-)

Endorsements are some of the best CRAP out there for athletes.

By Taboo

August 4, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

Sad to see a person who was once a respected regular turn into little more than a person seeking to jerk a chain, wherever the opportunity presents itself.

ray are you going for the bait or really attempting to have meaningful conversation? Recall that the difference is not what you are trying to do but what the other person’s intentions are. Needless to say, this cannot be known at first glance, but is revealed in time through a series of similar communications.

By Sautee

August 4, 2008 8:06 AM | Link to this

Skip calling the Hawks in the early 70’s:

“Pistol Pete pulls up and shoots a 22 footer…. shot it 21.”

I’ll miss his sardonic wit and his “truthtellin”. He never sugarcoated anything he saw.

Yeah, he was a curmudgeon, but he was our curmudgeon.

By doc

August 4, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

hey sautee, hope the weekend went well.

we will all be reminded of what skip meant to us this season especially, as the braves swoon in a downward spiral. somehow skip kept bringing us back with his combination of homerism and a strong touch of telling it like it is without having to remind us of what he was doing every other sentence. he never oversold or embellished the product thinking the listeners too wise. in a way he respected the listener like no other broadcaster in the game today. his was the real unspin zone and i respected him for that as much as he seemed to respect me.

By Sautee

August 4, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

doc…agreed. He respected our intelligence too much to spin. God rest his soul.

By I.MUS WRITE

August 4, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Why are we not going after Francisco Elson. I read that he may be joining the Miami or Memphis for the Vet’s minimum…………

Morris will fill Solo’s role from last year we need a legit starting Center……..This guy would make Horfords job alot easier…………

I mean dam,I know our owners are broke but 1.5 milli is peanuts for what the guy can do. ZAZA makes 4 million a year and plays soft as toilet tissue………..

By kirknga, doc, ray

August 4, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

hi everyone,

we 3 are all quitting this place because no one likes us and we have no lives. we will never be back on here. thanks. bye

By richbrave

August 4, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

No comments today folks. I’m into the second day of my wake for SKIP CAREY. Later, if I sober up.

By Tyger

August 4, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

Evans No Childress

Dont get me wrong. I’m not crying over Childress leaving, he wanted too much money, bottom line.

But I’m not sold on Evans either, not as Childress’ replacement. Evans is a decent player, emphasis on decent. He is not as good or better than Childress in any phase of the game.

We will miss Childress, and Evans wont make us forget him any sooner.

Childress was a unique player in that he was as long as a power forward but had the quickness and agility of a point guard. His baseline play is unequaled, but he is injury prone and has a suspect jumper w/o consistent 3pt. range.

Evans is supposed to be a better defender and have a better outside shot. We’ll see, at 3 inches shorter, without Chills’ hops, we’ll see.

Chills could play the 1,2,3 and cause match-up problems at all three positions. Evans is a 2/3 with no baseline game.

Hopefully, it’ll all work out, we needed another shooter and you always need other good players and Evans is a good player, but I dont want to mislead people, Evans wont remind anyone of Chills, despite that jersey he we wear.

By B.A.ToDa

August 4, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

Whoever compared Josh Smith’s situation to that of the Cavs last season, i can see this happening now. The season could actually start without him being signed or sitting out. But I would believe Josh would sign a 1 yr before doing that, unless he truly believes he can get a deal done here in Atlanta to his suiting.

Sekou looking forward to whenever your next blog is coming out!

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Manny, Shelly and Lorenzon could’nt SCORE THE BASKETBALL, Morris can. That will open up things for Smoove. What’s so AMUSING about that?

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Tyger, evidentally you have’nt seen much of Evans. He has major hops. With that said, hops mean nothing . Our star player can barely dunk. lol!!

By B.A.ToDa

August 4, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

New article on ESPN Winners and losers of the NBA’s offseason (so far).

Can’t help but agree with everything this dude is saying. And we already made 2 HUGE MISTAKES. Getting a proven failure in Rick Sund and rehiring Woodson. Those 2 mistakes are bigger than the players itself on the team, which can affect us in the long run. I have a reason to be scared for this franchise…again. ToDa

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

A Golden State view of Josh Smith.

mykhalc your home area guy brings up some interesting points. They say styles make fights…maybe we can say the same for basketball teams. Josh is athletic, but maybe not a fit for the GSW.

While the ASG waits it out for this summer, it looks like the GSW can say they are done with their off season roster moves.

Now that we are in August, I’m sure that something will happen with Josh in less than 3 months.

s l o w P A I N c o n t i n u e s

By doc

August 4, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

seems like someone voted me off the island.

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Prior post left out that link for the Josh Smith story.

terrell Morris showed offense in college. So did Shelden and Lorenzen. In the pros, his best showing has been 8 pts against Atlanta and Miami. He shot 36% FG and 48% FT last season, so I won’t even rent what your selling if I hit the lottery. Until the Morris offense shows up during a game, I’m firmly in Zaza’s camp to outplay him on both ends of the court. (Not saying Zaza is a force, but he should own Morris.)

ToDa Chad Ford was not too kind to the ATL. I’m not saying he was wrong though. Sometimes it is tough to hear You’re not good from so many fronts. After awhile, you probably tune it all out…and get rid of all your executives…and not resign your players in a timely manner…and resign a coach whose style doesn’t match the talent on hand…and so on, and so on.

PAIN

By doc

August 4, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

manny t they ahve damaged the brand througout the world not just the big a and the nba.

i dont think chad ford gets his ideas from reading blogs but doesnt he sound a bit like many of the members?

thanks for the link:

“The Hawks are dumb, but they’ve already lost RFA Josh Childress to a Greek team. They built a high level (for them) of excitement last season around Smith, Horford, Joe Johnson, Childress and a little bit of Mike Bibby.

It’d be awful if they lost both Childress and Smith, playing a RFA system in which almost nobody loses high-quality RFAs. You’re not supposed to lose RFAs that are stars. They lost one. They’re not going to lose Smith and it’ll take more than Brandan Wright–I think–to pry Smith loose.”

couldnt resist another assessment of the hawks from the left coast since ford is from the right and two weeks ago from broken english, greek style, as they gloated. it isnt pretty so my man rick better come up with something soon or the brand takes another hit and it wont be bringing back bad knees al.

By kirknga

August 4, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

What a sad day. My first memories of Skip Caray are as the voice of the Hawks. As A liitle kid, listening to Skip and the Hawks on my blue Panasonic radio was a favorite pastime.

I remember being upset that he left to go be an announcer for the Braves who weren’t very good at the time.

I thought, “oh he just wants to be on tv”.

But after 30 or so seasons, I’m glad he did it, because I got to enjoy him even more.

We in Atlanta have been blessed with so many cherished and venerable voices that have come to mean more to some of us than mere announcers of games.

One of those has left us and I am glad he is at peace.

Good Bye Skip

By ray

August 4, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Doc, I didn’t know we were on an island. But that “threesome” would’ve been short-lived….

Manny, it pains me to say this, but other than some embellishments and slightly debatable sensationalized comments….Chad Ford is right. Of course, he acts like this is news that he discovered…

On the subject of Morris: I hope he works his arse off and does so much more than expected. Like I’ve said earlier, the key to his being here being mutually beneficial is his ability and determination to shed the image that he has. Nothing less will do.

I Mus, damn good question. But I think you know the answer. Cheap-a$$ ASG isn’t paying attention and Elson probably doesn’t want to be here anywhow. But what do I know….

Hey, where’s my favorite rock band, The Everything’s Alright Crew? Somebody cue the ASG cheerleaders, it’s gettin’ dark on here…heh heh!

By mykhalc

August 4, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

MannyT, DOC, what a reputation the HAWKS as a franchise have developed!!! SIMPLY AMAZIN’!!! dead on-point tho!!!

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Looks like Total Drama Island has shown up on this blog.

The kids love TDI

doc I doubt you get voted off, but it was amusing to see you, ray, & kirknga listed together on a joint posting…almost like a press release.

richbrave How can you post to say that you are not posting? Isn’t that like a celeb going out and telling the paparazzi, no pictures today ;-)

Note last line of Arroyo Signs With Maccabi Tel Aviv I thought you are American if you are from Puerto Rico. Maybe it’s one of those things to get around the number of US players on a team. Then again, the Maccabi squad is packed with Americans and they play Euroleague. Something else to learn. Maybe Sekou can get Carlos’s teammate, Esteban Batista, to fill us in on a slow summer basketball news day.

Worlwide Hoops CRAP

By ray

August 4, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

After having read the link supplied by Manny, all I can say is just wait for it. That post. You know it’s coming. Don’t know when, but it’s coming. Just wait for it….

By ray

August 4, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

I liked Esteban…not that he was a fantastic ball player, but dude was plenty tough.

By I.MUS WRITE

August 4, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Ray -“The everything is alright crew” you are wild’n out right now. I see you were down in Chatham county -my home twn SAV. How did you like it?

By I.MUS WRITE

August 4, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

Ray -“The everything is alright crew” you are wild’n out right now. I see you were down in Chatham county -my home twn SAV. How did you like it?

By doc

August 4, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

after reading terrell’s optimistic remarks about morris and then seeing his real numbers i think terrell has dipped into the preseason kool aid. he is a project nothing more nothing less and one who could be out of the league in two seasons or less. what we are hoping evans and morris brings to the table is unrealistic as they have never done it before. evans is obviously going to contribute in his own way but morris? come on.

By ray

August 4, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

I Mus, that’s my spot, more or less. Bought a house in a subdivision just inside Chatham county, real close to Effingham county. The wife and I are cool with it (she picked the house…I just agreed, you know how that goes, LOL!). Didn’t know you were from the S A V ! Been here since ‘84 when I was 6/7 years old.

Hey, you know me. Wild’n out is all we have right now.

By Melvin

August 4, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

Look like we have giving up on Morris already as the AJC replace his pic with Josh Smith…lol… Oh well, Jamaal Maglorie is still a unsigned free-agent..

By kirknga

August 4, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

In my opinion, Chad Ford’s “winners and losers” column is conventional wisdom m masquerading as information.

That he picked the Atlanta Hawks will no doubt come to the delight some. Yes, there is further confirmation now of what we’ve been saying….”wait for it”….ASG is..broke, cheap, stupid, late, incompetent, etc…

All of which maybe true, or it may not. But it will not stop the flow of the conventional wisdom, but it might inspire the use of a cartoon as a wink a nod and a pointed finger to those who are not animated by the conventional wisdom.

Like Ford’s analysis, and that of everyone who comments on this blog, we will not know until 1. the offseason is over; 2. the season is over; 3. the playoffs are over. Only then can we tell

Last season, the conventional wisdom said that there was no way the Lakers play for the championship. They had a disgruntled superstar and the GM was stupid, slow, overmatched since Jerry left”, a fool.

But then they played the game. And what happened, yes the conventional wisdom, turned out to be “wait for it “TDI fans….it was wrong! The conventional wisdom underestimated the players already on the roster. The conventional wisdom did not foresee a trade made by the “stupid, slow, overnmatched since Jerry left” GM that would propel the Lakers into the Finals.

While Josh Smith certainly is not Kobe, and Phil Jackson is not Woodson, the principle is still the same. Until the roster is set,and the season and trade deadline play out, despite all that has transpired before, no one knows what the heck is going to happen.

Wise heads and otherwise, believed that it was the Bulls who had the strongest shot in the East, or perhaps LeBron would break through, but “hey don’t forget about the Heat, if Shaq stays healthy…”

A few mentioned the Celtics, but they certainly were not the consensus choice.

So I say, and have said, beware analysis of any team until the games are actually played, because it is often wrong in whole or in part no matter how superior and obvious it may claim to be.

By B.A.ToDa

August 4, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Yea, i’m not feeling the front page for the ajc Hawks. And we should of kept the old poll up instead of the 1 we got now. The last 2 polls clearly showed how much us fans want Smith back. This new poll only shows how little faith we have that Smith will actually be back with the Hawks. I had to vote “YES”- Smith will be back in a Hawks uniform next season, just to show that I won’t him here, even though i have a feeling he’ll be gone. Especially with you guys putting up that old 2 sign and trade options up on the front page.

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Melvin I am not giving up on Morris. As a fan, I hope he gets some hometown inspiration and pushes the front court to new heights.

As a guy who looks at the data, there is nothing to support him being an impact player beyond the hope that he was in the wrong system and has desire to improve.

Going up against the Three Wide Crew (Eddie Curry, Jerome James, & Zach Randolph) in Knicks practice should have helped him with the banging. I’d think that he should be able to get shots against those guys as well. It has not shown up in his NBA box scores.

Credit where it’s due—ToDa posted the Chad Ford ESPN link. I only tossed in my 2 cents.

Yup, I’ve got a CRAB ;-) that’s a Campaign for Responsible Athletic Blogging

By B.A.ToDa

August 4, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

yea Manny, and good looking on that Golden State point of view concerning Josh Smith and his value to a team.

By Melvin

August 4, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

BA, I agree with your last post. I voted Yes as well in today’s poll. Only in hopes that the ASG does the right thing and resign Josh. I’m not sure why the AJC would bring up the 2 trade proposal again. I hope this poll doesn’t encourage management to trade the Josh. I would hate to see Josh leave his hometown for greener pastures. This kid has done nothing but improve every year under stressful conditions that BASG has created….

By Josh Smith

August 4, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

Trade in works?!?!?! That’s all I get…

By B.A.ToDa

August 4, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

yea Melvin i’m glad you understand where i’m coming from with the new poll and the old topic that is being placed on the front page. It can send a wrong message (when compared to previous polls) and i just hope people don’t mistake this. That last poll really set the tone and was all that needed to be stated- to the Hawks Organization.

By MannyT

August 4, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

kirknga I generally agree with your statements regarding patience. jhan also made lots of sense when he said that the ASG is proabably not as bad as the perception that haunts them.

I will say that in the limited market of options that NBA players have to change jobs, perception/reputation is critical.

The ASG (even pre-divorce actions) has not shown itself as a group that attracts free agents. Because we can only get players via draft or free agency, it is a problem. When we are debating the signing of starters from other teams, then we have made a leap to a better level of player acquisition.

In the meantime, if you were an owner of another NBA team, I think you would use the perception to sway any player you wanted away from the Hawks. It’s not personal, just business as they slide the shiv of bad rep into the collective ASG backs.

Until we can turn a PR corner, other owners are happy to paint this ownership and management group quietly with this video brush.

PAIN

By SalimFan

August 4, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Woorrrddd….I love all this National attention!!!! I WANT MORE!!!!!

Make that sorry ASG get their act together. TRASH THEM IN THE MEDIA UNTIL THEY GET RIGHT OR GET GONE!!!

By I.MUS WRITE

August 4, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Yeah Ray …. Thats my place of origin,but I havent lived there since i graduated high school.I guess you could say i was on a mission to see the world. I try to get down there every 3/4 months. Great place to settle down and raise sum kidz. I know you are loving tybee island……… Everytime i take sumone home they wanna go to the beach or river street. I went to St.Patricks day dwn there with sum friends and now im locked in for the next couple of years because they are forcing me to go….itz cool though…. been there done that

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Randolph has got some game people. I watched this ame guy outplay Dwight Howard twice in High School. All he needs is MOTIVATION. Hopefully coming home will bring some of it back. Hey, you gotta stay optimistic Doc. What’s wrong with that? lol!!

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

Randolph has got some game people. I watched this same guy outplay Dwight Howard twice in High School. All he needs is MOTIVATION. Hopefully coming home will bring some of it back. Hey, you gotta stay optimistic Doc. What’s wrong with that? lol!!

By Mitch

August 4, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have two choices:

1. Offer Smith an $11-12M/yr. contract or

2. Sign and trade him.

The option of having him sign a one-year tender at $3.4M that will ensure that he will become an unrestricted free agent next year…is NO option.

My feeling is this: Forget about ESPN’s Chad Ford and his perceptions…the Hawks can actually be better, in fact, way better, than last year if they can, for example, trade Smith to the Clippers for Marcus Camby (shot blocker) and Al Thornton (budding star).

I’ll take it a step further…if the Hawks like Thornton enough, and I beleieve he will be a much better pro than Marvin Williams, then trade Williams as well for a point guard and/or a center.

By ray

August 4, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Didn’t have to wait long for it…LOL!

By SalimFan

August 4, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Ray you dog you……..Hehehe….

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

So Sekou, is there a trade in the works?

By ray

August 4, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

A motivated Randolph Morris should be a boon to both himself and the team. A non-motivated Morris is a waste of money and time. And it shouldn’t take him long to figure out what Woody wants. Although, even if he turns out better than advertised, there’s no guarantee that Woody knows what to do with him. Like I said, I hope the guy destroys expectations that are fueled by his NBA production so far. We need that. He needs that.

Mitch, if you can get the Clips to part ways with Thornton in a deal like that, I’m game. In fact, I wouldn’t do a deal with them involving Josh Smith if Thornton wasn’t a part of it. A deal like that may not be glamorous, but it gives us a center (well, for the time being) and a young, blossoming SF. I wouldn’t feel like we were mortgaging a good part of our future then.

I Mus, I avoid St. Paddy’s Day like the plague. I’ve had enough after all this time. I especially hate working on that day. The beach is cool, but sometimes we go to St. Simon’s instead of Tybee. River Street is nice, but again….been here long enough to not always appreciate it for what it is. Holla at a brotha next time you’re in town if ya can. Sautee and I are gonna hook up when he comes around.

Manny, I understand the idea of the ASG not being as bad as perception says. But are we also not in agreement that we can’t and won’t be privy to any details behind the scenes? Yeah, yeah, I know it’s called faith, but it’s only faith in people that have more money than you do. We can’t even trust our own government. A bunch of lawyers and businessmen trying their hand at a pair of sports franchises? I’d rather put my faith elsewhere, but some choose differently. Talk about cartoonish….But anyway, I believe most of us would probably agree to some form or fashion of what is suspected: These guys are so tied up in concerns that are directly related to their litigous situation…that they can’t run things the right way right now. Or at least not the way they would like (not that we know what that is either…so much uncertainty here).

But…that might be considered conventional wisdom, which makes it automatically wrong, right?

By the way, is a concept considered conventional wisdom just because the majority of a group of people agree on it? If not a majority, then how many does it take for it to be considered as such? Furthermore, what if a concept is at first only heard and agreed upon by a few people…but then is accepted by many? Has it now lost it’s label as an idea and now become the dreaded “conventional wisdom”? If that’s the case, then could it go from “right” to “wrong”? Gee, to hear some people, it must be wrong if enough people agree on it. Wow. Perhaps the only way to be right about something is to say that which is in opposition to what everybody else agrees with. Long as very few people agree with it, it’ll be okay. But if several agree….look out…you’re staring conventional wisdom right in the face.

And as we all know…this is a crime. :< )

By HHoops

August 4, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

Trade Rumors

I’m hearing J. Smith for JR Smith and L. Kleiza. Can Denver & the Hawks get together for this one? The contracts will work if they sign J. Smith for 10-13 M.

I’m also hearing Okie want to move Wilcox.

By HHoops

August 4, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

Trade Rumors

I’m hearing J. Smith for JR Smith and L. Kleiza. Can Denver & the Hawks get together for this one? The contracts will work if they sign J. Smith for 10-13 M.

I’m also hearing Okie wants to move Wilcox.

By ray

August 4, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this

OOooops. Forgot my disclaimer: Uhh…this isn’t drama…because, uhhh…I am speaking with tongue firmly planted in cheek…uh, yeah. That’s the ticket.

SalimFan, who meeeee?? By the way, even national attention doesn’t change some things. We won’t know where the ASG stands until some time in February, and we may not until then. No, I think these guys may have already picked which hill they want to die on, so to speak. Getting creamed by every NBA website won’t change the amount of money they have, and I really think that money is the root of the entire problem. Well, that and having more than a half dozen owners….I mean really…that many partners, with each having his own individual concerns and what not. I just don’t see how it works for very long, but whatever. And I was thinking that on day one….

By ray

August 4, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

Read in HoopsHype rumors that Cavs are interested in JR Smith. Some think that the Nuggets are in full firesale mode. It appears that A.I. and ‘Melo are rather costly. I remember thinking these guys could be explosive, but I was never as committed to the idea as ol’ Samuel. Heh heh. Where is he, anyway? Lurking about and waiting for something to happen like the rest of us? Heh…don’t blame ya Sam. And leave some bass in that lake for next year….

In other news, Paul Pierce is trying his thuggishness out again. Only this time it got him cuffed up…Ol’ “W” likes to have the NBA champs up to his house, but not if you’re gonna act like that. By the way, Paul…if you think city/county cops are rough, you haven’t met Secret Service. Those cats are on a whole ‘nother level. Watch ya self, watch ya self…

By Mike

August 4, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

**I find it hymorous that on the home hawks AJC page it says:

Sekou Smith says the Hawks are mulling at least two, sign-and-trade proposals regarding unrestricted free agent Josh Smith. DISCUSS

….and that he cant even mention one player or anything of substance in these blogs. nice job.**

By The Flash

August 4, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

Imagine Woody tryin to coach up them And 1 guys to focus on defense first and then walk it up. Probably would too.

Coincidence Doc, just sent my daughter to Seattle. On the same vib, I guess.

Man, they need to sign this guy!

By Nate ArchiBALL

August 4, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

Sautee,

“Pistol Pete pulls up and shoots a 22 footer…. shot it 21.”

That was classic Skip from back in the day.

What was his line when the game was almost over ? “Another basket and its cocktail hour”.

By LilRoc

August 4, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

OK HAWKS I HOPE YOU GUYS GOT CHRIS WILCOX IN THE WORKS

By Mike is Dumb

August 4, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this

Even more humorous is that Mike has NEVER said anything substantial on this blog. Probably not anywhere else either. That and he can’t spell humorous. It is okay Mike, the U key is close to the Y key isn’t it? Loser.

By doc

August 4, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

terrell cant get my hopes up on that one just dont let me discourage you. one question though, how is he going to get motivated staying on the bench in the woody dog pound in the dog house? heh heh stumped for an answer?

By ant banks

August 4, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

man, everyday, the same ol’, same ol’… 1. A.S.G. sucks 2. Hawks should resign Smoove 3. Hawks should not resign Smoove 4. Hawks should have resigned Chills 5. Hawks should not have resigned Chills 6. Woody sucks!

it amazes me how everyone reports in everyday to recite/rehash the same ol’ things.

I am glad that I have a life!!

For those of you who ask, “Well, why are you here, Ant?”

I come here once a week or when something breaks as it concerns the Hawks.

By ant banks

August 4, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, and by the way you guys analyze and break down the hawks salary cap and know the implications of a sign and trade and who is worth what…man, do you all spend this much time analyzing you personal accounts?

If you all did, there is no way that we would have this many foreclosures, bankruptcies, or lost jobs.

You all should apply your skills to some real use and save the country.

By ant banks is dumb too

August 4, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

Who the heck comes on a blog and says people are dumb for being here, then says I only come here once a week, so Im not as dumb? Dumb-azz that’s who. Not posting on a blog means that there will be no bankruptcy, foreclosure or lost jobs? What a dumb-azz. Sounds like somebody wasn’t allowed to write for the paper and is mad as heck about it. Dumb-azz.

By SalimFan

August 4, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

Check out the new Arenas Bolg.

By terrell barron

August 4, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this

Doc, like I said before, WOODY WILL PLAY HIS BENCH ALOT MORE THIS YEAR. He better. He and Sund had a little talk about bench development. Remember? And I mentioned the Jr Smith and Kleiza rumor a while back. That would solidify our bench. Acie, Jr, Evans, Kleiza, Zaza and Morris. Also, whether it be JR, Evans or Kleiza, I can see one of them replacing Marvin in the starting lineup, EASILY. Especially since he’ll be missing the 1st couple of games.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 5, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

A few thoughts:

First of all, the ASG sucks. Secondly, although the Hawks should re-sign Smoove, one could make a solid argument that they should not either. Thirdly, failing to re-sign Childress may or may not have been a good decision. We can all agree, however, that Mike Woodson sucks. Finally, and most importantly, ant banks is an idiot.

By oldmike

August 5, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Take a look at this from Chad Ford on ESPN.com. [http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=Offseason-080804&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab4pos1] Hawks are the BIG loser. SEKOU can you comment on the article?

By RealSquawk

August 5, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

is there any news on Salim Stoudamire

By Paddy

August 5, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

After waiting and watching this slow boat to China, it is so clear.

ASG has $$ and or cash flow problems that are big time major. Sorry Josh, wish you could have played longer with the Hawks. Don’t think the sign and trade will make the fans very happy with the return on investment.

It won’t get much better when the season starts. Way too many empty seat and even more lost fan base. The sky is really falling.

By doc

August 5, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

paddy this has been the problem from day one only compounded by the legal issues. franchise was always underfunded even when belkin was here.

By Ken Strickland

August 5, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

TERRELL-Woody and BK also had a little talk about running an uptempo OFF before last season. As we all know, Woody gave it some lip service, and actually played that style during our brief 5gm winning streak, but quickly retreated back to his slow it down halfcourt comfort zone.

Also, you mentioned how Morris might respond positively to motivation. I hope you’re not expecting him to get it from Woodson. You’d better hope Woodson doesn’t use the same motivational tactics on Morris that he used on Solomon, Salim, Zaza and Acie. He might end up losing some of the feeling and circulation in his butt while anchored to the bench.

We’re talking about a man that’s rigid, dogmatic, inflexible and doesn’t respond well to change. As a HC, and probably as an individual, he was imprinted by 2 former HC’s(BKnight and LBrown) that have the same problem. Neither of them can/will venture outside of their comfort zone for very long, especially if forced to do so. Look at Knight. Indiana mandated that he change his approach toward his players and curtail his violent behavior. They had to fire him shortly thereafter because he couldn’t adjust. As a HC, LBrown has been a winner. But he frequently gets forced out as HC because of his rigid attitude and approach, especially toward his players.

I certainly hope you’re right about Woodson, and Morris. If so, we could shock a lot of people this season.

ANT BANKS-are you upset/envious of the regulars for being thorough in their approach to following the Hawks, which, based on your responses, likely places them head and shoulders above your capabilities? You obviously take a simplistic approach to following basketball. You seem to resent those who are willing to take the extra time and effort to seek out info that gives them a more indepth approach to basketball. DON’T HATE, ELEVATE(your approach to the game).

By B.A.ToDa

August 5, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

The Clippers trade would be the best scenario for the Hawks- if we don’t resign him. I don’t believe the Denver trade even being possible. But I haven’t seen any links to either 1 of these trades so it’s all probably been made up straight from this blog.

SalimFan good looks on that Gilbo blog. I wonder if he’d say the same had we gotten Kwame……. doubt it lol.

By doc

August 5, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

terrell do you hear an echo? i am not ken, too! heh heh

By terrell barron

August 5, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

Hey Ken, Did I say that I expected him to get his motivation fron Woodson?

By HHoops

August 5, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

Trade Possibilities That Benefit The Hawks

Most fans don’t want to let J. Smith go, but it may happen because of finances or egos. Either way, here are two trade possibilities that could benefit the Hawks:

1st-Offer J. Smith to Seattle/Oklahoma for Johan Petro (1.9 M) & Jeff Green (3.3 M). The contracts would work. The Hawks would get a Big and a wing that can help right away.

2nd-Offer J. Smith to Denver for JR Smith (2.3 M) & Linas Kliza (1.8 M). This does not solve our need for a Big, but it gets two players that can help right now. Maybe we can move Bibby before the trade deadline if our other guards are playing well.

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

O.K i’m about to post some disturbing stuff. You’ve all probably heard this already but it’s news to me.

Blacks Banned from Bars in Beijing during the Olympics.

By terrell barron

August 5, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

And Ken, when BK was here Woody had 4 years to do what in the hell he wanted, offensively and defensively. Right now, his a* is on the line. He signed a 2 year contract. And we all know how those 2 yr contracts work. And so does Woody. Win or go home. It’s that simple. I expect a different Woody, when it comes to bench play, and wearing out the starters. His excuse to Sund was, “We were in the Playoff hunt so I had to play my best players”. With my job on the line, I’d probably do the same. Would’nt you? Now dont get me wrong, Woody has been HORRIBLE! But hey, I’m trying to be optimistic. We might as well. He’s here for at least another year.

By nique

August 5, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

I’m shocked Smith’s people aren’t using the media as a mouthpiece to exert pressure on the ASG to get serious with their discussions. I mean no one is saying anything, or at least it’s not being reported.

Sekou, in the absence of news about Smith, how about covering the debacle that occured with Childress and figure out who is to blame and why they didn’t do any of the trade offers on the table (specifically for Barbosa)?

There are defintitely a bunch of interesting subjects to write about the Hawks but I haven’t seen any written about in weeks.

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Here is Another….

Chinese Paper Says Blacks Banned From Bars During Olympics Published on: Monday, July 21, 2008 Nsenga Burton

What do Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwight Howard and Jason Kidd have in common? They are the starting five of the 2008 Olympic Men’s Basketball team and none of them will be admitted to any bars in Beijing because they are black. No, this is not fiction — it is fact as reported by the South China Morning Post (7/18/08). Beijing authorities have forbidden bar owners to serve blacks during the 2008 Olympics.

How hypocritical is it that the host of the largest international sports competition in the free world would ban an entire group of people based on race? This blanket discrimination is couched in the idea of “controlling” Beijing’s problem with prostitution and drugs, which is primarily driven by Mongolians. Somehow, this policy smacks of impropriety, pun intended, and underscores China’s continuous policies of discrimination. You would think with the global embarrassment over the mistreatment of Tibetan Monks, faulty consumer products, and the suppression of information about deadly diseases, that China would have figured out by now that the systematic exclusion of an entire group of people, many of whom have histories of horrendous discrimination in their home countries, would not reflect well on the mainland. Further, I was not aware that blacks owned drug trafficking and prostitution worldwide. Amsterdam anyone?

Let’s get this straight. Black people can participate in the games, add money to the economy in “permitted” spaces like hotels, lodges and restaurants, but they cannot go to a bar, which may be located in a hotel, lodge or restaurant. This is outrageous. Would the world stand still if in 2008 the United States was banning entire populations of people based on perceived ideas about race?

Pretending to control drug trafficking while controlling the movement of black folks is out of control. To define an entire race of people as drug dealers and prostitutes is unacceptable. I guess this is what you get when an international committee overlooks a country that has transgressed human rights without recourse. The world community needs to unite against this injustice and demand that China allow all Olympic participants, athletes and visitors alike, equal access to all venues.

As China prepares to take the world’s stage in celebration of athletes all over the world, and by extension their people, it is tragic that they have decided to add blanket discrimination to the many offerings during this year’s Olympic games. Perhaps our expectations of China are too high? It is kind of ridiculous to have the expectation of moving freely in a country that does not allow its citizens to move freely. Complicated countries have complicated practices. The fact that Beijing is being allowed to ban all Blacks from any place or event, without rebuke or scorn, is maddening. Will the world stand by while China further institutionalizes another human rights debacle?

By terrell barron

August 5, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

On another note: The Spurs are expected to sign Pargo. And I cant wait to see the U.S. Squad go against Spain with Gasol and Calderon.

By doc

August 5, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

ken, dont worry about it. if someone as smart as warren buffet can and does play bridge on line for at least 12 hours a week, we can be afforded the time to come here read and log if desired and go on our merry way. besides i like the camaraderie and respect that is passed back and forth even if it is in different styles and over disagreements. ultimately, it becomes relationship more than anything else which he doesnt get or understand.

moving on, one of the things i hope the BASG is taking into consideration since they were fools enough to not realize the euro threat is to imagine that josh and his agent are doing their due diligence. the BASG better have assumed they have talked at length with lloyd’s of london about insuring josh smith for this season and letting him play it out with a big insurance policy to fall back on. the BASG had better know what types of max insurance contracts that are availble and be considering their offer in light of this and how much it might cost for josh to buy one of those.

look, the kid has proven to be as good as his peers, if not better. isnt that what we wanted him to do, now pay him or get on with it. just dont whine that you didnt see it coming, that is soooo stupid, sund knows the formula, how respect is shown and knows true values that are in the market place ….. so it has to be his bosses that are holding him back. it wasnt billy and it isnt sund.

By Melvin

August 5, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

HHoops, I can see the benefit of your 1st option happening for OKC but why would Denver want Josh? They already have Kmart and Melo making over 10 mil each at the forward positions. You expect them to pay Josh 10+ mil to comeoff the bench. I can’t see that happening. Besides, they’re trying to avoid paying JR Smith big money that’s why you here his name in trade rumors. Denver is trying to stay below the luxury tax. Hence, the Marcus Camby deal…

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’m suprised that other countries are not boycotting the Olympics or even speaking out on the matter. It’s just wrong. Some people are calling it institutional racisim.

By ant banks

August 5, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

ken All I am saying is that I wonder if you guys spend as much time on YOUR own “business.”

Najeh why do I get to be an idiot because I express myself, but you are the “Resident Laurette” when you post?

All that I am saying is the same exact stuff is posted every single day. Just wondering where you all find all of this time…

See you all in a week!!

By doc

August 5, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

salimfan go back and read about the olympics of 1936 in nazi germany where jesse owens was the star. now think back and remember the backlash from so many directions when president carter made his stand? ultimately, the athletes said it hurt them and many didnt support the decision though ethically, morally and maybe politically it seemed right. the only thing that can be done is prove it on the field of competition like owens did to the nazi belief of their superiority. simple formula for success.

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Doc, I was thinking about that. I was watching the game vs. Austraila this morning and I thought “I Hope we crush china in the opener”. It’s more impotant to the basketball team to do so more than any other because of the fact that this year everyone on the team is black.

On a brighter note…..well, sort of. David Andersen proved that he can bang down low. I REALLY like his game(Of course he has that nice jumpshot too). I think the Hawks sould make a run at him next season. He has an opt-out option at the end of every season in his new contract.

By travis

August 5, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

heip

you guys lose me with the acronyms, what do they mean? A.S.G., B.A.S.G., W.A.F.F.L.E., A.S.S. and any other that i may have left off.

could someone make an answer key for me?

Does anyone know when the contract situation with Smoove must be resolved by? can he go into training camp like this?

By doc

August 5, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

if the hawks had been willing to spend some money they could have done well to hold on to chills, buy evans and anderson and bring back smith. they would have had an expiring contract in bibby to rework jj’s contract and have some money to use on horford as well as zaza’s expiring contract. anderson would have worked well with horford even if they didnt want to bring in chills to save money swapping smith to the 3 spot. there was so much flexibility for this team back two mnths ago that it was excotng to think what moght have been if they were willing to spend the necessary funds. it just didnt work out that way salimfan, maybe it can come together next year but a wonderful window of opportunity was there for the upcoming season.

right now reality says, it is trying to hold enough pieces together for the upcoming season to avoid falling down to the level the griz are. maybe they can pull off 37 wins but i dont see how unless smith comes back happy. in baseball we can set our sights accordingly for the braves who set their budget and all know what it is. we dont know what the budget is until the team goes to training camp. at that point we drink the kool-aide or not until then we all guess and fantasize about what might be.

By St. Bernard

August 5, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

I saw a little bit of Anderson today playing for Australia against Team USA and he did a pretty decent job all things considered. Why is it that we don’t bring guys over after we draft them again?

By travis

August 5, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

salim fan is that a real article? it is ashame that in the ‘68 Mexico City Olympics, John Carlos and Tommy Smith were kicked out of the athletes village, like common criminals, because they held up a black, gloved fist…meanwhile China ‘08 is allowed to bar black athletes from bars, etc.

where is the outrage and protest!!

the real travesty in that is that of all of the black athletes who will still participate in the games. they, along with the media are the ones who need to speak up because it affects them

By Mistadolla

August 5, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Who would you sign to a near max contract Al or Josh and if you had to rank Hawks players from 1-10 with no 1 being the best, how would rank them?

By dmortone

August 5, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

I was only able to watch the first half of the first quarter, but i saw that australia had a 3 on 1 situation and it ended up with andersen getting stripped by jason kidd’s old a*. he want’s 5 mil a year to play over here? I say sund did a good job letting him stay on the other side of the atlantic. he only ended up with 4 points on 2-4 shooting also.

By Samuel

August 5, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Salimfan,

I saw that in the Atlanta voice. It kinda surprised me but then again, not really. Most of these athletes are pretty much “high paid” slaves. They cannot speak out.

I saw them interviewing the Basketball team about China’s human rights abuses and they all Tapped Danced something serious. That’s why it really wouldn’t hurt me to see the USA Basketball team get beat. The whole Coach K, patriotic Bullsh_t makes me sick.

Plus, they’re really not all that impressive if you asked me. Weak inside and not enough outside shooting. They may win it but I wouldn’t be surprised if they lost.

By californian

August 5, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

It is hard for me to believe the article of Beijing banning blacks (and Mongolians) in bars on the eve of the most publized intenational event in the world where host China wants to be perceived in the most positive light. Here is an article explaining the confusion by the journalistic reporting of the South China Morning Post:

http://shanghaiist.com/2008/07/21/lostintranslationmoreonthebei.php

Here is an excerpt:

“The most convincing debunking of this story has been the hard work of Beijing nightlife blogger Beijing Boyce who actually went bar to bar to to speak to bar owners about this potential ban. Boyce suggests that the “black” referred to may not actually be about skin color but “bad elements”. The Chinese term for organized crime syndicates or the triads is 黑社会 (literally black society).”

By Melvin

August 5, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Doc, I two ponder the same thoughts at the liars table a few blogs ago on how the BASG could of had a good offseason and continue full steam ahead into the upcoming season if they would had resigned the Joshes, Anderson, Evans, Morris, West and Luke Jackson. I think that team would have competed for a playoff spot. Not sure what the future holds for the Hawks at this moment for the upcoming season. This thing could get even worst….

Mistadolla,

1. JJ, 2.JSmoove(hopefully resigned) 3.Horford, 4.Bibby, 5.Marvin, 6.Acie, 7.ZaZa, 8.Evans, 9 -15 doesn’t matter…. Uh, do we even have 15 players…..

By doc

August 5, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

melvin, agree, it would have been more compelling than what we end up with and a whole lot cheaper. heh heh it is their hard earned money and investment to capitalize. of course they want my hard earned money on a regular basis, too. i think i can enjoy the occasional game for entertainment value rather than the committed season ticket holder route as things sit right now.

By Melvin

August 5, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this

Yes, Doc. I will be going the single game route myself. If they don’t resign JSmoove, then I will be going the NBA League Pass route only. Except for when they play in Charlotte. The Bobcats has a nice arena. If you ever think about attending a Bobcats game just let me know. I can met ya out there. Can’t remember how who has the best pretzel’s… heh,heh

By doc

August 5, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

cool idea melvin.

By B.A.ToDa

August 5, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Watch out for them Bobcats… any year now…

By Melvin

August 5, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Not sure if the Cats are ready for Primetime yet BA but we’ll see. It will be interesting to see what Adam can do on this level. They will probably play alot of small ball with Adam at the 3 and GWallace sliding to the 4. I think Raymond may be on his way out if DJ can play on this level. With DJ in their lineup, that should provide them with plenty of shooters around Emeka(misp). Now if Emeka can develop some back to the basket skills then they could very well scare some people….

By Aaron B

August 5, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

I just can’t wrap my head around trading Smith or letting him go! None of those options are intelligent at any level. I just don’t want to let it go, and I find this whole thing reminiscent of the Wilkins trade. What in the heck would make the Spirit think Josh wasn’t worth the going rate for his talents. His upside is ridiculous! The only downside to re-signing him to that much cash is that he doesn’t get any better this and next year, and we get a solid defender who can score fairly on the cheap. Sekou did you show the owners our polls?

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

ROFL

By Paddy

August 5, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Salim Fan… what makes you think there will be a next year? This Hawks ship is sinking fast. ASG with no money and no leadership can’t last. If next year comes it could be the Seattle Hawks. Does everyone have their head in the sand? No fans in the seats means deeper and deeper in debt. These guys at ASG have already lost a small fortune. They could turn it around but not with the moves they make and the awful publicity. I am sure someone will write a book on “How not to run a NBA tean”. It is over.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 5, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Co-sign Californian… I’ve heard that before, that the word ‘black’ in Chinese is used to refer to criminals and not black people. I think that would be a much bigger story if it was actually true.

Ant banks, I actually post a lot less now than I used to, mainly because the topic of discussion hasn’t been changing. In fact I mentioned that a couple of weeks ago. I’m just not a big enough douche bag to come here insulting people for posting. You, on the other hand, are.

Travis, A.S.S. = Atlanta Spirit Sucks.

By doc

August 5, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

travis …. BASG= broken atlanta spirit group

By JOE

August 5, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

SEKOU, WHERE THE HECK ARE YOU???!!! It would take 10 minutes out of your day to answer some of our questions!!! Why do you start a blog and then disappear for almost 2 weeks???!!! Look all I’m saying is we are looking for answers about numerous things ( if you ever read our comments you would know ) so if you would please respond to us and answer some questions it would be great!!! JOE

By doc

August 5, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

joe if the owners dont know the answers how is sekou going to know. he breaks stories on the hawks, one reason is he doesnt foul up things and do the rumor mill stuff. we do that for him.

salim great story on oden and his relationship to his coach. mcmillan is tops and i hope he gets a ring before long my daughter is going through portland soon i might get her to bring me back a souvenir of a blazer hat.

By Dante

August 5, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks don’t re-sign Josh Smith it will be the dumbest move since they traded Nique for Danny Manning!!!!! These owners don’t know anything about the game. That’s probably why B. Knight left cause he knew some dumb moves were coming! I’ve been a Hawks fan for a long time but man they make it tough for me.

By terrell barron

August 5, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

So you mean to tell me, that they put up signs, so CRIMINALS would’nt go to bars? Are you kidding me? That’s hilarious. CRIMINALS disregard signs. lol!!!

By Samuel

August 5, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

TB,

Yea that’s funny. It’s not a big story cause America and the rest of the world is riding China’s jock right now for obvious reasons(Money). Just google the issue “blacks not permitted in Bars in China” and you’ll find plenty of stories about the issue.

Now that it is out in the open, of course they will deny it and of course Lebron, Kobe and the gang can go wherever they want but what happens to the average Joe or Tyrone when the camera’s are gone.

It’s also their choice to live there.

But then again, we got our own problems here. If they aren’t speaking out here, why should we expect them to in China, right?

By Astro Joe

August 5, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

I don’t know, Terrell, Sund put up a sign saying “Childress, Go Find a Better Offer” and that sign worked out quite well.

Anyone find an article about all of the sports writers the AJC let go today? I heard Kincade wax poetic about it earlier. Sounds like the BASG is consulting with the AJC resuting in several good writers losing their J-O-B.

By slim

August 5, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

this comment is for HHoops, I don’t what league you’re watching, who wants kleiza or JR smith, those are two journey who will earn there journeymen pass for the league JR smith can’t check anyone ok he may be able to knock a jump shot or two, but he’s not the answer and kleiza isn’t either. You have to think about the room for growth that smoove has, those two players do not fit the bill. A more attractive sign and trade would be smoove for Tayshawn, and maybe a draft pick or two. The Hawks need balance on offense and a player like tayshawn will definitely do the trick also we’ll get solid defense.

By Pac

August 5, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

So let me get this straight. The Hawks go into the summer needing to resign Josh&Josh and sign a big man and a shooter. Now they’re distant with Smith at best and childress, the big man (Anderson) and the shooter (Akoyl) are all playing ing Europe?

What a tragedy. If they resigned Joshes, signed Evans and brought Anderson/Akoyl over from Europe, there’d be talk of a serious run this year.

Hopefully Belkin wins the court case. No way he’s worse than these clowns.

By Pac

August 5, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

So let me get this straight. The Hawks go into the summer needing to resign Josh&Josh and sign a big man and a shooter. Now they’re distant with Smith at best and childress, the big man (Anderson) and the shooter (Akoyl) are all playing ing Europe?

What a tragedy. If they resigned Joshes, signed Evans and brought Anderson/Akoyl over from Europe, there’d be talk of a serious run this year.

Hopefully Belkin wins the court case. No way he’s worse than these clowns.

By randy

August 5, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

The only people Chinese like are Chinese. They can’t stand black people, they think they are dumb hoodlems. I am white myself, but I know cuz I use to work with 4 chinese people. They are all alike. They are like the Jews, they don’t trust anyone but their own kind. So not surprising they would ban blacks, of course I am sure Kobe and Lebron could find any restaurant ready to serve their rich black a*******e$.

Please someone please investigate whether the ASG are really broke, is it so hard to extend an offer for 10 mill a year. I don’t know if Josh would bite at that offer, but atleast I would feel like the management are trying.

By The Truth

August 5, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

randy

I hate to go there, but are you a racist?

By SalimFan

August 5, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

Always trying to get better: The trait of great players.

By HHoops

August 5, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Slim

Relax Slim. I did not say I wanted to trade J. Smith. I was just offering possibilities if ASG decided not to resign him. I liked the trade option with Oklahoma better anyway.

We could not get Prince in a sign & trade because J. Smith is a BYC player. Prince has a 9.5 M contract for next year. J. Smith would have to be signed for 19 M. for that trade to be possible. That is not going to happen!!! There would have to be a third team involved. Try again. At this point, the Hawks do not have a lot of options that would make sense.

We need to kiss and make up and resign Josh!!!

By richbrave

August 5, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

Some thoughts after coming back partially sobered up from celebrating a personal three day wake for SKIP CAREY.

I loved the way he stuck pins into DON SUTTON’s bag of pompous air. Now I have no choice but to listen to the “mouth of the south” prattle on about the vagaries of the Washington Nationals. Oh, I do exercise one option. I rarely listen.

Unfortunately, SKIP will never again be there to leaven the mirthless hyperbole with some much needed humor.

I have a friend who loves SUTTON, and hated SKIP’s inimitable style. We’ve never been as close since I learned that particular fact about his taste in broadcasters. Not one to goad others, I lack CAREY’s delight in exposing unimaginative thinking. Consequently, we remain friends.

That’s what I will miss. That quick, rapier wit that NO other national broadcaster possessed. And “free baseball” will forever be in my lexicon of favorite terms. Good-bye to my friend. Someone I never met, but loved fondly.

By ray

August 6, 2008 6:30 AM | Link to this

Nothing new under the sun, I see.

By B.A.ToDa

August 6, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Pac the Hawks just didn’t have the money (which is clearly easy to see now) to sign all those players this offseason. And Melvin, you right man, it’ll be a couple of more seasons before the Bobcats will have other teams worried.

Sekou we need some more updates if there is anything going on. I hear Igoudala might get $70million.

By doc

August 6, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

salimfan your concerns about china are heartfelt i am sure. please dont react to this but there have been brutal hardships placed on the peoples of china and tibet for near a half century and of course longer through the upheaval of the “revolution” to be aware of. i am not demeaning your stance or sincerity but simply saying to open the consciousness to others and their plight beyond whether blacks can go into bars and does that mean criminals or people of color.

if you have any concerns it might be interesting to google the plight of tibetan monks and dali lama to read further or i believe look at the movie, ? years in tibet, starring brad pitt, i think as a start. human suffering is huge and goes beyond the borders of china and some of the worst is between tribes of the same color in africa. we need to be aware but it goes waaay beyond your present concerns which are really very superficial if one doesnt look deeper to that it is beyond just one nation or color. once that is embedded then we can begin to raise consciousness. i am not preaching and hope it doesnt seem that way,

richie, i happened to like both don and skip, now where did that put me in or out? don sees the game as he did as a player to which he was very astute, skip saw it the way a fan does. being a former pitcher i loved the way don calls it and sees it. being a bit of a curmudgeon myself these days and liking sarcasm i really appreciated skip and knew he had a warm and loving heart.

By Samuel

August 6, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

It’s amazing how whenever people want to deflect or minimize injustice towards black people they always mention black on black crime. You are trying to minimize it otherwise you wouldn’t throw that in.

Yes we all know it exists Doc but that’s not what were talking about. White people kill each other too. World Wars, Ireland, American Civil War, ect.

The Tibet situation is the sexy Hollywood Cause but no grater than any other im sure.

It’s not just blacks going into bars im sure. It’s the overall injustice done towards poeple of color.

By Astro Joe

August 6, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Go ahead, call me a conspiracy theorist, but it appears that Stern has decided to punish the BASG by sending the Hawks on the road early in the season. Sekou is saying that we have a pretty tough schedule to start the campaign. Seems to me that we are playing the role of the Washington Generals as other playoff teams get to start their year with home wins against our still too young club. The good news is that maybe this wil seal Woody’s fate and give us maybe 50+ games to see Drew run the club. Can you imagine how dysfunctional the Hawks locker room will be when they start losing games early, on the heels of the Childress/Smith debacles, and with Woody going to a short rotation to gain some momentum? Man, I can see the ugliness from about 5 months away.

Interesting to see that Morris essentially plced himself on a platter and begged Sund to show any level of interest. Exactly what did Sund or Woody see during those workouts that led them to believe that Morris is the low post defender that we need? Size? Heck, there are plenty of big bodies around who don’t defend. In fact, they have one in Za. We spent around $3M on Morris & Evans. Me, I would have rather spent around $2M on a proven low post defender like Adonal Foyle and tried to grab someone like Quinton Ross for $1M. If Sund had gone that route, he would have given both JJ and Horford proven reserves who could take some of the defensive load off of their shoulders. I hope that a motivated Morris means that we’ll get a guy who can contribute 18-20 minutes of strong play every game. But I suspect that while he will show effort, the results may not warrant that he gets much more playing time than Solo.

Have we re-signed Lo “Popcorn” Wright yet?

By ant banks

August 6, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Sekou has got to be the laziest beat writer there is. He makes one comment and then dissappears after 400+ posts. Custance, who used to cover the Thrashers would have about 4 or 5 comments to the posts.

Several of you bloggers have been begging for a response from Sekou, to no avail.

By ray

August 6, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

I understood Doc’s point to be neither deflection nor minimization but rather a comparison/contrast. Human suffering was the overall theme, I believe. And the crap going on in Africa is some of the worst and most noticeable these days. It’s a fact, whether one likes it or not. We could also mention the things going on in the middle east (and I’m not talking about the areas where we are a direct and televised influence).

Race on race crime is an evil element all to itself. One big reason why is because it adds fuel to the fire when dealing with people who really are trying to deflect and minimize injustices levied by other races. While it is clear that we should work to decrease and eradicate such injustices, how can we do so in good faith while not addressing our own issues.

Funny how the angry voice raised against other races and their wrongdoings against us wish to minimize and deflect that which we are doing to ourselves. Unity, unity, unity is what we preach, but we have yet to accomplish this. And so, we concentrate on the outside forces, which we have even less influence on, because it is so much easier to complain about that which you cannot change….than to put forth the effort and go about changing what you can. But, this is just another point of view, probably not in line with others. Perhaps it will get me branded a traitor to my own race, as it has before. But then, the truth never sets well with those who don’t want to hear it.

In the meantime, I am not worried about where I can go in China. I have no plans to visit.

By Wink from Lithonia

August 6, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

HELLO ASG (HAWKS MANAGEMENT) ANYBODY HOME… ANYBODY!!! ARE YOU GUYS SLEEPING? ARE YOU UNDER A GAG ORDER? YOU GUYS ON SUMMER VACATION IN THE HAMPTONS…WHAT???

By Sautee

August 6, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Samuel

Regarding doc’s post: I thought his main thrust was that we ALL need to raise our conciousness about injustice.

If you don’t think black on black crimes fit THAT box, then ok, but I’d say you’re out there on a limb by yourself or with a very few others. I saw NOTHING on his post that made me think he was minimizing any kind of injustice.

I thought that his point in bringing up tribal wars was that injustice is NOT limited to racial injustice. And if that wasn’t his point, it is mine.

By terrell barron

August 6, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Pac, Anderson is Garbage.

By SalimFan

August 6, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

The 08-09 season schedule is out. Looks like the Hawks are on the road against playoff teams first. most of our home games come in the last month of the season.

I’s already bad enough but without smoove it’s suicide.

By some sense

August 6, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Come on guys at AJC. Look at the date on this piece…over a week old. This is poor. The interest level exhibited by this issue would seemingly dictate that some thing/anything fresher would be in order.

By terrell barron

August 6, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Ant Banks wants your job. lol!!!

By Sautee

August 6, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

I thought Ant Banks was going away for a week.

I guess time’s fun when you’re having flies. ;-)

By nique

August 6, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

i completely agree with some sense. there are definitely some hawks stories that should be covered and probably would be covered elsewhere, but the ajc is dropping the ball.

By terrell barron

August 6, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Doc, and Ray, I’m sorry, but I have to agree with Samuel on this one. Yall need to change the subject? FAST!

By The Truth

August 6, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

http://my.nba.com/forum.jspa?forumID=400032200

Excerpts:

*The Rest of the Free Agents — I think Deng’s money went up and Okafor, the money he turned down, he ended up signing again. That’s good that he didn’t get caught in that loop hole where he lost money, at least he stayed at the same level. They offered him $12 million, he turned down $12 million and he ended up with $12 million.

Iguodala hasn’t signed yet, either has Ben Gordon or Josh Smith. These players right now are competing against each other, believe it or not. If one of their teams decide to go after one of the other players, that’s going to push that player out.*

Based on Gilbert Arenas Blog, Josh Smith, Iguodala, and Ben Gordon are competing for perphaps Max dollars. Maybe that explains the pace.

By ray

August 6, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Terrell, no need to be sorry, and I’m not the least bit surprised at your reply. But we aren’t talking about the same thing. But why should we change the subject…fast? You have something to say, then say it.

By doc

August 6, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

my statement was that there are horrible things going on in many dfferent areas of the world that are as important as whether blacks are or are not accepted into bars in bejing. it has been going on for many lifetimes and IT has a much greater scope than black on black though some are very sensitive and sympathetic to that element and RIGHTLY so. it is much greater than that and it was not isolated to the violence perpetrated on jews in russia or germany which was and is white on white and along race lines. many dont acknowledge or accept that unless you were a jew white thrown out of russia by the predominantly white russian govt in the 1970’s without a stitch or without identity except to say your nationality was jewish as was your race. open it up to a bigger context of injustice. having spent time with african refugees i admire them immensely especially their forgiveness and remember their plight when i think my burden is great.

again, i prefaced my remarks to the greater whole of humanity and how it continues to bring forth its element of insanity. i too am a refugee and have been disembodied from my home land and treated unjustly having been persecuted. it is just as much in my genes as it is in anyones. it is what we truly have in common and to deny it is to deny ourselves at its greatest point of compassion and connection.

i do think some folks understand the point as expected and some dont as expected and why i prefaced it to the greater whole of humanity within and without. white on white crime and political torture and human sacrifice has existed for centuries and it is within us all if pressed hard enough to survive and i repeat it is within us if pressured that far. tibet is not hollywood any more than the urban plight of the poor in economic status in america if you live there.

ultimately, it is about changing the perspective and the belief that there is anything different about anyone else that is a member of the human race. until that is hammered home then race, religion, politics and nationality will continue to divide us all until we really explore whether it truly exists or does exist only because we were told to believe it. that is when real freedom exists within, when we can discern the difference. freedom will come to all of humanity when we are free to accept the commonality of man rather than the preached differences we have chosen to believe, probably unconsciously. that is the true freedom i pray for.

ultimately, when the divide drops to race, religion, politic and nationality and we can see injustice for what it is in ALL cases and truly feel the compassion to do something about it then mankind will be better off and no sooner; ALL of mankind. i know it is a very simple prayer.

as far as the HOLLYWOOD reference the VERY BEST movie i have seen this year was THE GREAT DEBATERS. i dont think that was hollywood and its schtick but a true and representative movie of humans overcoming something much bigger than itself. it was a truly glorious and poignant movie and is the focus of how far we have come, not to say we are there. denzel or brad you take your pick, both seem to have their statements to make and seem to come from the heart in spite of their wealth and perceived beauty that sells pictures and its content better than i can in words, so be it. i recognize ray and sautee might written it with greater clarity. i hope that brad and denzel both continue to make relevant movies as there are still great stories of courage to tell.

By terrell barron

August 6, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Why Ray? 1. Because anything involving race is a touchy subject. 2. Some people see things a lot differntly. 3.And I dont want this to turn into the Falcons blog.

By doc

August 6, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

what is wrong terrell? did i say something about don or skip you didnt like or something else?

did you really read it all or just jump and react as i suggested one should try to avoid as it wasnt meant to provoke?

terrell, it is not like someone else that you might think you are talking to, that the question was asked yesterday, i assure you so dont even go there.

you dont think maybe my response was even and balanced as some noted it? that is okay and you dont have to be sorry. anyway the comments were to someone else’s topic and someone else’s period but i dont mind you jumping in. it simply brought out several other areas to reflect on beyond what i had already said yesterday which was i was uncomfortable even if it was gazillionaires, fellow travelers and olympians being discriminated. if you want to bury your head to the other greater injustices then fine and all that it was meant and not recognize them for what the comments were then that too is okay with me.

By ray

August 6, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Well written, Doc, and good food for thought regardless of whether or not a person chooses to agree. Again, food for thought…agreement is secondary if anything.

By ray

August 6, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Well, terrell, I share your view of the Falcons blog. But I don’t see anybody going off of the deep end yet. I suppose some people are sensitive, preferring to feel rather than think. In cyberspace, this is purely subjective. Oh well, lest we falconize the masses….

By doc

August 6, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

ray, as you know, i dont look for agreement, just to discuss at the table. everyone’s comments and perspective is as important as anyone else’s.

By TV Schedule

August 6, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Just looked over the schedules and saw the Hawks are only booked for 1 game on ESPN(against Boston) and none on TNT….

so much for making the playoffs changing things, at least we got one game.

By rays

August 6, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

new blog is up!!

By BIGDOG

August 6, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta Hawks probably won’t resign him.He probably would have stayed but you got the same sorry coach that doesn’t know how to run the ball with a young team.You got young players and won’t to use them like their old.Stoudamire had energy off the bench but you act like JJ can’t get a break.He not the only shooter.Horford Smith Bibby Acie what are just letting one man shoot for.I don’t blame Childress, Smith, Stoudamire if they all went overseas.Low pay but you want championships but won’t pay to get it.The Braves, Falcons they suck because they won’t spend the money to get the players they need