Hawks

By Billy Hoyle

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

Sekou,

Did you see Josh shoot any jump shots by chance? Is his stroke and sweeter then last year. Do you see him working the block more this season with the added muscle?

Also, will the players be taking part in team voluntary workouts as they did last year before training camp? Any update on Speedy’s prognosis after summer camp? One thing I like about the signing of Flip and Mo Evans, is the fact they will push Bib and JJ everyday in camp. If you all remember correctly from last year, JJ got off to a horrible start shooting the rock last year, especially behind the three point like. I think the addition on Bib and Flip will take some pressure off of him and allow him some one on one opportunities as we saw against Boston.

Any word on the players take on the loss of David Fizdale? Seemed like he was the first one off the bench (and in Woody’s ear) during timeouts. Hate to lose him to Miami.

Keep up the good work.

By Reggie

August 18, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Sekou

I like the Flip Murray signing, can you talk about what he brings to the table. I believe that Speedy Claxton, cant be on this team. There is no way way you can have Speedy, Mike Bibby, nad Acie Law on the same team?

I believe the hawks need to make another move, what are the chances Speedy Claxton is traded, for a veteran piece?

By salinsa

August 18, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

As far as overall accomplishment, Phelps has been the most dominant athlete of the Olympics. The fact that he’s dominant in so many events in a relatively small period of time is just amazing but in terms of one singular athletic event, Bolt’s 100m performance was jaw dropping. He slowed down before the race was over and still took almost half a second, which is a lot in 100m, off of the world record. He could’ve run a low 9.6 if he hadn’t slowed down for the last 10m. What’s make this more amazing is this is he just starting running the 100m less than a year ago. Once he gets more experience and becomes a more disciplined, technical runner, he could run in the 9.5s which doesn’t seem human.

By khao$

August 18, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Any discernible improvements to Smith’s game? I know this was a glorified pick up game. However, if he hung around the post more or shot the jumper better, those are huge pluses and things to look forward to.

By Dan

August 18, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Michigan football sucks

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 18, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

I gotta disagree on the Olympics… sure, Bolt’s performance was great and there have been some other highlights, and the basketball is pretty entertaining, but non-stop coverage of 8-year-old looking girls doing gymnastics and people swimming gets boring pretty quick. Maybe if they switched it up and showed some of the other sports more often it would be better. Not to mention the commentators are unbearable. Seriously I’d rather listen to a non-stop loop of Mike Patrick than listen to any more Olympic commentary.

Love to hear that Josh is stronger… if they keep playing him at power forward he’s gonna need that bulk to handle some of the bigger post players in the league. With his incredible athleticism it probably won’t hurt him much in that regard.

Remember a couple of years ago when people were calling Gordon “Ben Jordan”? Yeah, me neither. I wasn’t feeling him as the #3 overall pick when it happened and I’m not feeling it now either. Moral of the story: if you’re under 6’4” and you wanna get paid you better work on your ball handling and passing skills.

By kgbsfinst

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

I dont have a problem with Bolt celebrating early, but I’d be worried about upseting the olympic Gods;)

Sekou There has been a lot of discussion on this blog about whether Smith is a 3 or a 4. Based on him as a player, and not the Hawks need, what do you think?

By ToeKnee

August 18, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

I always felt like Ben Gordon and Salim Stoudamire brought alot of the same skills to the table. They’re the kind of guys who could start and be great on a bad team, avg like 30 a night, but ur not gonna win a championship with a guy like that in ur starting 5. theyd be great off the bench, and i always feel that the pressure put on woody to not only “win now” but also “develop young players” cost salim an opportunity to find his place, plus he always seemed to be injured at the worst possible times, like when there would be minutes to spare, remember when we literally had no guards besides joe for a few games. kinda like shockley with the falcons last year, he would’ve gotten a start for sure. i had always held a little flame for salim thinking he would take off like gordon but it just never seemed to happen. i do wish him the best though, and hope he gets a shot somewhere. he should go to memphis or somewhere where he can be a force in their offense next year. a shooter like that will stick around in the nba and i wouldnt be surprised to see him bounce around the bench of championship contenders later on in his career. and that sucks for gordon, shouldnta been greedy i guess, cuz he’ll never get an offer like that again. he probably thought he was ‘their guy’ and clearly he’s not.

great to hear about josh, hopefully marvins reported weight gain is muscle too and not jelly donuts. what kind of league is this where josh smith plays against javaris crittenton and louis williams???!! these things should be televised man. haha i know i would watch. anyways thanks for the update, usain bolt is absolutely sick!!(in a good way) and be sure to get alot of interviews come training camp go hawks!!

By terrell barron

August 18, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the read Sekou, but come on man, NBA role players can be EASILY replaced. Now when a STAR goes over seas, there could be a problem, but I dont see it happening. Great players want to win NBA championships, not Continental trophy’s, where “Trangan Langdon” was named finals MVP. lol!! Are you kidding me? And by Josh bulking up, does this mean that he’s thinking PF longterm? If so, the Horford is playing out of position bloggers will probably lose they’re minds. lol!!

By terrell barron

August 18, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Reggie, the other team has to agree to the trade too. WHO IN THE HELL WOULD TRADE FOR SPEEDY cash those checks Claxton?

By This Gets Old

August 18, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Couldn’t get too excited about Bolt because he wasn’t running against Tyson (looks like the ankle injury did indeed play a role in the Olympics)

As far as USA basketball it is endlessly tiring to hear all of the idiotic critics of the team. They are the only US squad that a lot of Americans want to lose. The “overseer” mentality (good thing coach K is there to “crack the whip”) takes a lot of the enjoyment away.

They’re bashed for anything and everything. From not staying in the Olympic Village to criticizing the three point shooting in blowout wins. They improve on the threes against Spain then its “they won’t be able to let Argentina hang around that long”

“Well they haven’t been behind yet. Let’s see what happens when they are”

First it was go back to the college players because “they really care about winning” And when they take the gold (if they do) it’s be “They’re NBA players they should win”

And if it’s so patriotic to participate in the Olympics why doesn’t everyone come down hard on MLB for not letting their top players play. I know they’re in the middle of their season but that’s my point. If it were truly about patriotism it shouldn’t matter. Let’s save the criticism for those on whom you have to “crack the whip”

By Reggie

August 18, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Terrell

With teams willing to take on salary there are teams that can take on speedy’s contract, remember his deal expires in 2010. If Ron Artest can be traded to the Rockets, for bobby Jackson, and draft picks. Why cant the hawks find somebody to take on speedy Claxton’s deal, plus he can be a very good backup point guard(when healthy) for any ballclub.

By terrell barron

August 18, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Ron Artest can put Houston in the top 3 of the Western Conference, Speedy CANNOT! Ron Artest actually plays, Speedy has’nt played in 2 years. Ron Artest EARNS his money. Speedy does not. Ron Artest has 2 GOOD KNEES, Speedy has 1. Need I say more?

By kgbsfinst

August 18, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

The thing about Camby is they just took on all of his cap. They payed Denver $10 million for him, and didnt get anything, money or players back. It makes no sense for the Clippers.

By Mac

August 18, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Are the Hawks interested in Cenk from Turkey? If he scored 22 on the US team I would think he could make the Hawks. Is there a timeline beyond this year for him to come to the Hawks? Also, what are the chance of seeing Mario West in a Hawks uniform? You didn’t mention him in Sunday’s column.

By get real

August 18, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

stomp the gators?????

Neither team played defense in that game and you just simply outscored them.

You wouldnt call what APP STATE did to you a “stomp” would you?

Please stick to Hawks basketball.

Go Dawgs!!!!

By Reggie

August 18, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Terrell

Im saying teams can take on Speedy’s deal because it expires in 2 years, the same year ,Lebron,Bosh,and Wade become free agents. I believe we can find a team to take on Speedy Claxton’s deal, and get back a veteran player, which we need in return.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this

Josh shot quite a bit from deep. While he didn’t exactly make it rain in the first half, he knocked down at least 50 percent of his jumpers (combined inside and beyond the 3-point line) after halftime. If it wasn’t for the work he did inside and out his team would have gotten drubbed because Crittenton and Louis Williams were just too much for Jarrett Jack and the other guards on Smith’s team.

Smith’s power game is what should be improved this year. I’d love to see him go inside more the way he did at times against the Celtics.

He’s got the size, athleticism and the strength. I’m more concerned with the tweaks the Hawks are going to make to their offense to put Smith in a position to exploit his tools. Same goes for Al Horford. I don’t feel like the Hawks played through those two young cats as much as they should have last season. It would have forced teams to play Joe Johnson straight up more often.

But his overall game is a bit more rounded. He handled the ball better than I’ve seen him do in the past. And he had no problem breaking down his defender and getting to spots he wanted to on the floor. He made a lot of moves that resulted in passes for his teammates. The structure, though, wasn’t ideal. The game, as good as it was, did get raggedy at times.

I like Smith at the 4 myself, it’s where I think he has the best mismatch against defenders because he’s usually quicker and more athletic. The beauty for the Hawks is that he can play spots and he and Horford are capable of swapping spots depending on the opponent.

You’re a cruel man Dan, cruel. You know how bad we’re going to be this year so you can have all your fun while we’re down. It’ll be like App State weekend for an entire season. All the smack I’ve talked the past 20 years is coming back on me this fall.

I’m not saying the Olympics ranks as some sort of perfect sporting display. There have always been faults in the way things are run and how they are done (the scoring system in the boxing competition is infuriating), plenty of them to be exact. But I dig the spirit of the whole thing and the athletes and what they’re trying to accomplish. It probably helps that you only have to deal with it once every four years, too. Watching Phelps work that pool over the way he did was something.

The way I understand it on the Hawks’ involuntary workouts Billy Hoyle is that they’ll convene back here about three weeks before the start of training camp and do the same routine they did before last season. The extra work, with Bibby in tow, will be crucial to the Hawks getting a good start to the regular season.

And terrell b., we’re going to find out just how easy it is to replace NBA role players this year and going forward. I don’t think it’s nearly as easy as you do. But we’ll see.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

I’m sure the Hawks are keeping an eye on Akyol Mac. But I don’t think there’s any room for him on the roster this season.

Mario West didn’t make the guards roundup in Sunday’s paper but he will be in the frontcourt wrap up this week. I know he’s a shooting guard technically, but his shooting stroke doesn’t really make him a viable option there with the additions of Evans and Murray.

And when you win you can call it whatever you want get real. isn’t that the rule? App State had their way with us, just like we had our way with the Gators in that bowl game. Come on man, give me something to work with here. It’s going to be a long season in Ann Arbor. I need some good vibrations to cling to if I’m going to make it through this year.

By kgbsfinst

August 18, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

That Gator game could easily have been worse if Hart doesnt fumble twice(didnt he have two fumbles all year going into that game), and wasnt there another mistake by Michigan also? I thought there was three big mistakes by Michigan that kept the score close. It was nice to see Adrian “I should have been a Hawkeye” Arrington have a huge game!

By Vulcan

August 18, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

I usually don’t dig the rush around and put a ball or puck into the net sports. But who knew there were such babes playing field hockey? Sure, I like the beach volleyball bikinis, but women in form fitting tops and short skirts … that’s some good jiggle right there. What a truly delicious sport.

By This Gets Old

August 18, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

They simply outscored the Gators? Isn’t that the point of the game?

By kirknga

August 18, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

The Olympics are hit and miss I think. There is something for everyone to liker and dislike.

While I’m mostly interested in the basketball competition, I have to say that Michael Phelps and the swim team have been a compelling story. Dude had all this pressure on him to win a bunch of medals and through all the hype, he did it and did it in record fashion. I watched one race where he was behind and he just overtook the field and won, if you like competition you had to like the swimming this Olympiad, especially the relays.

I hope the US does well this week, wins some more gold, including both basketball teams. Don’t want China to brag too much. Then lets get these games over already. Football is in the air!

By Shannon

August 18, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

For the life of me, how you could go on for paragraph after paragraph on non-basketball olympics and not even mention the most decorated Olympian in the history of sport. it would be like ananlyzing golf in the 90’s and 00’s and not mentioning Tiger. Phelps dominates his sport MORE than Tiger does his, more than BOLT does his, more than RICE did his.

By Swatguy

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

Sekou, I hope all is well with you. I wanted the Hawks to draft Javari instead of Acie. Am I nuts to think Javaris would fit well (better than Acie) with th Hawks, at point? I’ll hang up and listen for your answer.

By ray

August 18, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

Some people just don’t understand. Going overseas to play is now a better option than it ever was. Some people think that a player that goes overseas doesn’t have what it takes (be it desire or ability) to play in the NBA. That’s just not true in all, or even many cases. Two things we forget: Money and Playing Time. If you have been in the league for a few years and can’t seem to make serious headway against the “stars” and “favorites” in the NBA, doesn’t it make sense to go overseas where not only will you get paid significantly more, but you can still WIN, and get a LOT more playing time? You can have “the drive” all you want. But when you want “the money” and “the playing time”, and know you won’t get it here….over there is viable option. So too, for those who have yet to get into the league and don’t/can’t get into college…you can go overseas to get paid while you learn. It’s just an option. And it works great for guys who aren’t in the top heap.

And thanks for the updates on Smoove. This frontcourt has a better chance with him and Marvin bulking up. Both need to step it up in the physical department. Especially Marvin, because despite his size, he’s not intimidating anybody. We need him to be more intimidating.

Terrell, I think anyone with common sense will be glad to see our frontcourt remain the way it is as long as we can win that way. Nobody is going to lose their minds on this blog because reality didn’t jive with the opinion they have on a blog, of all things. If they do, then it’s a clear example of somebody who’d rather be right (on a blog or elsewhere) than for the team to win. Fortunately, there’s not too many of us like that around here. I still think Horford is better off at PF. But guess what? If we’re knocking Boston’s door down with him at center and Smoove at the 4….I’ll be celebrating just as hard as anybody else. Happy as a clam….

By ray

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

Anybody still complaining about paying Josh 11.6 a year should check out Iggy’s contract. Just think, this dude had lower numbers than Smoove in the playoffs, plays JJ’s position, and is making more than JJ now. Wow.

Ben Gordon is a fool for rejecting $50 million last year. Before anybody calls me a hypocrite (which I am), let me say this: Sekou has him pegged. His defense sucks and will continue to do so. He was never interested in defending (ask Scott Skiles). He can’t play the point worth a damn. He’s a gunner, and a damn good one, but what you see now is exactly what you’re getting. It won’t get any better. He’s a sixth man forever, unless he can be matched up with a 6’4/6’5 pg that can ably defend SGs every night. Even then, that leaves him guarding the opposing team’s pg. Did I mention he sucks at defense? I think I did. He’s all offense. Good offense, but that’s it. The thing about it is….he’s not 20ppg for the next 8 years kind of offense. He plays plenty, but not enough because of….you guessed it…sucky defense. Chicago is going to end up taking a loss on him some kind of way. And Gordon is going to end up playing for less than he rejected. He should call up Fred Jones and some other guys, so they can explain how much future there is for guys who are short SGs….well, except for guys like Iverson. And he can “D” up a pg pretty good.

By doc

August 18, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

thanks for the update sekou. like the spirit of it, upbeat.

wonderful to hear smith continues to grow in many ways in this case physically. we saw it with howard last year as he became a man and this year with smash. josh has had a great summer as he has been to mature and his attitude of becoming an ambassador of sorts is really exciting.

cool to hear crit is coming into his own. still think that will be one that samuel and i can sit back on and say gee if only. i think the kid is going to be huge as he gets his nba legs and confidence.

though i like many of the moves the hawks made still think in a team that is height and size “challenged” they will lose a lot more than most think without chills game. he played big and small as needed and allowed the team and woody flexibility (even if that is hard to conceive) to not give up much size wise and even cause mismatches because of his broad capabilities.

some say evans replaces chills though i admit he does some things better and it isnt the point for those that want to make it one before you start, dont misread. evans cant and he will not have the impact at three that chills had and will probably force jj to the three position which will possibly mean evans is on the stud for the other team or overwhelmed. as far as flip, he and evans may have trouble being on the court at he same time again due to size. it may be a problem there. unless drew comes up with a small ball team and woody allows it to go through growing pains necessary to become a unit he just doesnt give the team the versatility it had. the team needs size and it got smaller is the bottom line, just dont care how you flavor it or spin it. please AVOID mention the randmo name at this point, until he proves himself to do some magic on defense and according to my boy rick that is his big deficiency in his game right now.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t know that I can say really that one is better than the other between Acie and Crittenton based on what transpired last season. I like the long term potential for both guys.

If anything, Louis Williams impressed me as much as either of those guys (granted, he’s been in the league longer). I’ll admit I underestimated him when he was coming out of high school. I didn’t see the outside game and I felt like his size would be his downfall on defense. But the kid has shut me, and all the others that have doubted him, up.

His outside stroke from all over the floor is vastly improved. He was stepping back and draining leaners on anyone that tried to check him. He’s still so slender that you’d assume he’d struggle against more physical opponents, but he’s stronger than he looks. The Sixers stuck with him through his early struggles and now they have a quality player for a mid-level price for at least the next five years. That’s good business all the way around.

Jarrett Jack looked good, too. His offensive arsenal is far more diverse than he displays during the course of the NBA season. He can shoot it better than you think and he’s in great shape and was as aggressive as I’ve seen him. I can see him being a real problem for teams off the bench in Indy.

By kgbsfinst

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

Ray and Dco

I agree with you both. Players going overseas is a good thing for them, and that may be the best fit for Gordon also. I dont see players leaving becoming a big problem, remember big brother(david stern), seems to be the most powerful commish of any sport. If he sees it a problem, I’m sure he’ll do somthing about it.

As for Smith and Horford playing the 4 and 5, the best word to describe that is mismatch. It seems people forget what kind of mismatch they will have on the offensive end.

Chills will be harder to replace than people think. Lets not forget, he was one player, how many players is it going to take to get his production?

By Samuel

August 18, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Cuz,

I have to say that: Women’s Track and Field is my favorite, OH MY GOD, followed by Men’s Track and Field (1mile or less), Women’s (or Toddler’s) Gymnastics, Snychronized Diving, and Women’s (Especially Cuba) Volleyball.

I love this guy Bolt. Ali on the track. It aint bragging if you can back it up.

I have no doubts that Josh will take it to another level this year. People keep saying we’re undersized but I keep reflecting back on the Boston series. Al and Josh are plenty big enough and most of all Tough enough to match up with the best of them. The Shaq’s of the world are gone so we’ll do fine.

By Reggie

August 18, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Sekou

Do you see the hawks trying to make a trade of any signifence with Speedy Claxton. I dont believe the hawks need him with Acie Law, and Mike Bibby.

Also talk about what Flip Murrray brings. Is he a pure shooter,How will he fit with the other players on the team?

By kgbsfinst

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

Sorry Doc, that was a misspell, my bad

By Astro Joe

August 18, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

I wonder when the last time Smith won a team trophy/award of any kind?

And I know it is another sport, but the last time a young Atlanta athlete bulked up for the season, well, it didn’t quite work that well. Right, Mr. Francoeur? Mostly, I am glad to hear that Smith’s handle looked better. I hope that he continues to improve his ability to get closer to the basket.

Ray, I know that we would like to say that Sund “lucked into” the Smith deal, but the reality is that the Hawks got the best value of all of the RFA deals signed this season. It’s not even close. And how it happened is a lot this important than the fact that it did happen (especially for a spend-thrift ownership group).

By Ken Strickland

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

DOC-I totally agree on your assessment of Chills. He allowed Woodson to play the 2nd half of the season with only 2PG’s. He also allowed Woodson to play the entire season without utilizing another SG and SF. He also played solid DEF at each position. How many players will we have to sign to replace his PPG, RPG, APG, team high shooting, FT and 3PT percentages, as well as his overall OFF/DEF efficiency.

Woodson will have to do something he’s never demonstrated an ability or willingness to do before to replace Chills. He’ll have to liberally utilize his bench and manage his players mins. This season, the Hawks will be at a crossroads. Until the 2nd half of last season, we’d focused on exceeding the previous yrs win total. After the start of last yrs 2nd half, we focused on making the playoffs, and we did. Because of last yr success, we’ll be focused this season on getting a higher seed in the playoffs, as well as getting our HC to move forward and be more progressive/aggressive.

This is going to be a very exciting season for all of us, and for severak reasons.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

I’m trying to keep it family friend here Steamboat. ‘Cause if we’re talking about favorites, nothing beats the women’s volleyball teams from Cuba and Brazil. And the track and field … well, thank goodness for spandex.

And tough enough is a good way to put it. Smith and Horford have already shown me that they are more than up to the challenge against whatever froncourt they face. They didn’t back down against anyone last year. That was impressive with so little depth behind them.

By IVSPORT

August 18, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the return of Andrew Bogut will do anything to make this game remotely close. I know he’s the star of that team but let’s be honest, he’s a mediocre NBA player at best and even Team USA’s worst player (Jason Kidd) is better than Bogut. Even though I agree that even the blowouts have been fun to watch, I do want to see a close game in which Team USA is actually tested, I just don’t expect the Australian team to provide us with such a game.

By MannyT

August 18, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Sekou Sure Michigan is scheduled for a down year, but that doesn’t mean there is no bowl hope. They travel well, so a winning season probably gets some party time in nice weather in December or January.

Najeh Stop pooping on the Olympics. If you turn to some of the other channels (USA, CNBC, MSNBC) you will see some sports that are interesting, but don’t get the ratings love of little girls (gymnastics) or the talented but less dressed (swimming, volleyball, track).

Time to take a peek at some of those other sports that we won’t hear about for 4 more years.

Have some stro-motion trampoline, so you can see what might have been if they unleashed kids with skills in gym class ;-)

This one has all the elements of something we might see here. A top plays clip, some ladies, and a game that looks like it was made up by someone who could not break through in basketball.

If you use the follow the money adage, it makes sense for Bolt to barely break the record. Track stars get paid for records. Keep trimming a little off and showing some personality to get the endorsement money flowing. If he dropped a 9.55 and could not beat it, then the record breaking cash won’t be there. Give the crowd a little something and leave with them wanting a little more.

Back to hoops…Chills biggest contribution was the flexibility he gave Woody w/o expanding his bench rotation. It’s nice to hear that Josh is expanding his strength and skills. I hope the pressure is on Woody to make something happen with all these new skills and players to achieve something more than last season. He’s getting growth from the younger guys and some vets. It’s time to close the WAFFLE (Woody’s arms folded-feeding lower expectations) house and que the Highlight Factory!

By doc

August 18, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

cool kgb.

yup ken my friend, the woody was flexible because of tne heady fro guy. woody is going to have to stretch his coaching chops to make up for it. let us see if the notion chops gets any west coast action here. heh heh

By mike

August 18, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

SEKOU,

I am very curious to see who is on the next Olympic roster. Assuming these guys win the gold, I bet some of them will not want to continue the commitment. Watching Lebron play the 4, blocking shots and getting out in transition, makes me wonder just how good Josh Smith would be in that same style of play and with those guards. He would be amazing! I know Horford made the practice squad, but it looks to me like Smith’s style of play is more suited to the way the U.S. is playing. That may change when they get away from the trapazoid lane, but for now the athletic help defender inside seems so important.

Any idea where Crittenton will end up? Too bad for him he’s stuck in that crowded back court in Memphis right now.

Finally, why isn’t Cleveland going after Ben Gordon? They would have to do a sign-and-trade, but what a perfect fit for them! He’s basically a much, much better version of Boobie Gibson. I know they just got Mo Williams, but adding Gordon would still be great. Playing with Lebron might be the only way he could justify the big contract he wants.

By doc

August 18, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

for starters mike a little known fact may be that cleveland has one of the highest payrolls of any team away from nyc. i was surprised to see that, it mat be a figment of my imagination. just seems i saw that some where along the way.

By cp

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

For the Hawks to be able to take advantage of both Horford and Smith on the offensive end, it would require Woodson to have more than 2 plays in his playbook. He really needs to get creative on the offensive end and show me something this year. I think Marvin will be the X factor this year. If he gives us around 16 points we should be fine but I want to see better rebounding from this kid. The guy is way too atheltic and long to be such a bad rebounder. I know Horford and Josh will rebound but if Marvin does it better this year I think it will help this team a lot, along with the 3 point shot he is working on.

By mike

August 18, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Doc, you’re right that the Cavs couldn’t sign Gordon straight up, as they do have one of the highest payrolls. But they have over $20 million in expiring contracts, plus one quality player they don’t want, Varajeo, who would give the Bulls some of the toughness they are lacking inside (though admittedly not the scoring they need). That team is just painful to watch since no one can shoot. Gordon would create lots of space for Lebron.

By mike

August 18, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

SEKOU,

Now that Josh Smith is locked up, have the ASG said anything new about Marvin? It may sound like we’re getting ahead of ourselves, but next year both Bibby and Pachulia will be FAs, and Joe will only have one year left and may ask for an extension. That’s a huge chunk of their rotation to make important decisions about. (Even if they don’t keep Bibby and Pachulia they will have to be replaced.) It would be nice to get Marvin sewn up now if he would take a reasonable offer. He may prefer to bet on having a monster year, but it seems silly not to at least have the discussion.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

No clue about Crittenton’s final destination Mike. But I’ll say this, in a couple of years the teams that moved him will be mad they did. Young cats usually need some seasoning. When he’s ready, he’s going to be a tough matchup.

I think you answered your question about Gordon and Cleveland. Boobie Gibson does the same thing and costs a fraction of what Gordon is asking for. And Gibson is more of a PG than BG.

Great point about that next Olympic roster. If these guys win gold I suspect many of them will move on. That leaves the door wide open for plenty of others and many youngsters. Smith in that environment would be really interesting. And physical freaks like LeBron and Smith are the prototypical power forwards in the international game because they’re big enough to play in the paint but versatile enough to play all over the floor and on both ends of the floor.

MannyT you are just WRONG for that WAFFLE line. Ha. Wrong!!!!!

I’m out like Billy Knight for a couple hours. Gotta roll to the Smyrna Spartans football practice for a couple hours but I’ll be back tonight to see if there’s still some chatter going on.

By Nookah

August 18, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Sekou, nuff respect man for mentioning my countryman. Being from Jamrock, track & field is one of our first loves. Just for your information, Bolt’s splits are the fastest ever in the history of the 100m and that includes all the greats, Carl Lewis, Donovan Bailey, Maurice Greene, Frankie Frericks et al…**.

When it comes to sprinting we are second to none. Shelly-Ann Frasier is no slouch…10.78 and she is 21.

Anyway this is all about the Hawks. I am looking forward so much to this season.

However, Sekou I have the same questions other bloggers have, how is his inside game? Can he post up most of the PF’s in the league? Has he added that much bulk?

Let me hear from you.

GO HAWKS!!!!

Nuff respect!!!!

By abigail

August 18, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

Sekou, about Gordon you wrote:

“if you try to start him at shooting guard he’ll be a defensive liability”

However, the Bulls had the top defensive rating in 2006-2007 with Gordon starting a majority(51) of their games. I guess he may technically have been a defensive liability, as their defensive rating could have been even more elite without him starting, but how much of a liability can he be if his team tops the category?

By Samuel

August 18, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

I may be a bit premature here, but this years Team USA is bent on destroying any notion that the rest of the world has closed any kind of gap when it comes to basketball. I must admitt, I had my doubts after watching the lackluster performances of the past 5 or so years of international ball. These cats are proving me wrong and I like it. These guys are out to prove that: you can lump all the EURO PUNKS into one team and still not have enough to beat us at our game.

This team is proving to everybody that you can win at any level with athletes and good pressure defense. These guys are taking us all back to the Georgetown, UNLV, 40 minutes of hell days of old. Sure these cats are considered tremendous scorers and prima donnas on their respective teams in the NBA but make no mistake about it, it’s the D that’s setting them apart.

You guys can talk all you want about ball movement and Xs and Os but give me a bunch of athletes who sell out and BUY INTO the defensive pressure concept and i’ll beat you like a drum.

Funny thing all these so called fundamentally sound Euros and their great offensive scemes are being totally manhandled and embarrased by a steady dose of playground style reality. It all boils down to: can you get open, can you beat me off the dribble and can you out fight me in the paint? Guess what? It aint happening.

Sure the NBA season is a long 82 game stretch and another couple of months more if you plan on competing for a ring ,but eventually the season will all boil down to the above said.

I now see what BK was trying to do here. Hopefully, Woody and My Boy Rick Sund can finish the job.

Now, I’ve said all that and watch em lose in the first round of elimination play. Oh well. I still love the way these guys are stepping up and manning up to bring home the beacon.

By ray

August 18, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Joe, I hear you on that, bro’.

Doc, I haven’t forgotten. Amongst friends at least, you have “delayed” bragging rights on Crittenton and Yi. I didn’t forget the conversation we had on draft night last year, heh!

There’s no doubt that Al and Jsh are tough and won’t backdown. Need Marvin to get in that groove, too. We definitely present some matchup problems, but in order for them to be any good, Woody must design or allow others to design ways to exploit them. Otherwise, our frontcourt will look “small” again. No sense in sending these fellas out to do battle while outfitting them with the wrong armor…

That’s really what it comes down to. Somebody knowing what to do with the weapons at hand. Tactics vs. Strategy.

Tactics would be knowing how to use the “traditional” lineup to its optimal level. Strategy would be knowing how to use that which is NOT traditional, and making it work to your advantage.

By ray

August 18, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Heh.

By cp

August 18, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

ray thats what I was saying. Unless Woody adds more pages to that so called playbook it wont matter if we give other teams matchup problems. I saw the guy who coached the summer league team come up with more plays in 6 games than I think I saw in the majority of games Woody coached last year.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 18, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

I heard the Jamaican HS track championships are off the chain Nookah. Something like 35,000 people crammed into the stadium or something. Whatever they’ve got going on down there is working. Whenever you sweep the men and women’s 100 meters at the Olympics, you’re doing something right.

As for Josh Smith’s inside game, it’ll be as strong as the Hawks want it to be. Their offensive scheme the past four years hasn’t included much in the way of deliberate plays to get things going inside. Most of what’s been done inside has been a product of the hustle, desire and ability of Smith, Horford and the Hawks’ other inside players to scrap for what they could get. With thing running through Joe Johnson 99 percent of the time, the Hawks have remained a perimeter oriented team.

I see where you are coming from with that logic on the Bulls’ defensive numbers abigail, but team defense and one player’s defensive prowess aren’t necessarily connected. If Gordon’s a horrible defender playing in a great scheme or with other good defenders who mask his deficiencies, then those numbers can say whatever you want them to.

No one would confuse Gordon with a great defensive player, or even a pretty good defender for that matter.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 18, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

“As far as USA basketball it is endlessly tiring to hear all of the idiotic critics of the team. They are the only US squad that a lot of Americans want to lose. The “overseer” mentality (good thing coach K is there to “crack the whip”) takes a lot of the enjoyment away.”

I’m glad someone else said that, because I agree completely and I’ve been thinking that for a while now.

By Najeh Davenpoop

August 18, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

“I’m more concerned with the tweaks the Hawks are going to make to their offense to put Smith in a position to exploit his tools. Same goes for Al Horford. I don’t feel like the Hawks played through those two young cats as much as they should have last season. It would have forced teams to play Joe Johnson straight up more often.”

There lies the real problem the Hawks face in the upcoming season… Woody is still the coach. If he coached football 10 years from now he might introduce the forward pass into his offense.

By diney

August 18, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

I’ve watched every second of every Team USA game and I have one question. Can someone please remind me why Michael Redd made this team? I really felt that JJ was more deserving of the spot. Seeing Redd’s atrocious shooting and his nonexistent defense kills me. I thought he was supposed to be this great outside shooter yet he’s the last player off the bench in blowouts.

By golden tornado

August 18, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

well well well, Is this another hypocrite as they preach and preach? Here it comes from none other than …….

By kirknga August 18, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this I hope McFann doesn’t yell at me for saying this, but throwing to 3rd is a real weakness of McCann. He’s got to do better, much better. I hold my breath every time he throws over there.

Dont you hate a fickle fan? Just because he is apologetic he thinks it doesnt count. II is like the little old ladies or blue hairs that go to play bridge and slam their friends with gossip all the while saying after each slam …. “bless their little hearts” like it changes the meaning.

By Samuel

August 18, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Naj,

It does look bad but hey,they really got these guys playing with a serious chip on their shoulder. I personally think it has more to do with Kobe being there than Coach K but hey. Whatever it Takes.

By doc

August 18, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

mike, i guess the other vital fact that went unsaid is they got mo, another relatively short tweener that can score to take the pressure off labron. dont know if it will come into play but many after wacthing labron at the 4 during the olympics that maybe with mo around brown will move labron to point power forward. interesting concept, huh? bottom line hey dont need gordon or bibby as some that smoke the crack pipe were want to suggest.

By A Thinking Fan

August 18, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

SS Did Bob Costa make reference of sprinter Bolt to that of being a monster? Just checkin’ to see if my hearing was correct…

By MannyT

August 19, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

The most dominant team at these Olympics is from the USA, but it ain’t the redeem team.

Game on.

By Bogus

August 19, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this

The word is “expecting”, not “excepting”.

By Jim

August 19, 2008 4:26 AM | Link to this

Hey Sekou, I’m an Orlando Magic fan. As has been rumored in the media, the Magic are contemplating trading For Javaris Crittenton as we still need a 3rd point guard. According to sources the sticking point seems to be the Magic’s reluctance to give up a 1st rounder and the fact that the Magic would prefer a distributing point guard more than a scoring point since we already have so many offensive weapons. How would you characterize Crit’s game and can he be an effective facilatator/distributor in that role? What about his defense? Thank you, sir.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 19, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this

Jim, welcome to our party. Crittenton is a good passer and has played with Dwight before, which would have to be a good thing. He’s also a lot bigger than the PGs you have now and a more dynamic scorer.

With Hedo, Lewis and Dwight needing touches I can’t imagine it would be hard for any point guard to get that job done. It’s a rather simple task, get the ball to those cats when and where they like it. I think he’d be able to fill that role just fine. Facilitating to me is more of a mindset than it is a skill. Most young point guards have to wrap their minds around becoming more of a distributor/facilitator than the scoring PGs they were in college (sort of like what Acie Law IV is going through). It’s just a part of the process.

His defense is clearly his strongest attribute right now because of his size, athleticism and willingness to dive in and guard at a high level.

And thanks for joining us.

By Aaron B

August 19, 2008 8:17 AM | Link to this

Well hello my peeps, I am so happy they re-signed Josh. Now I can talk bball instead of crying like a baby about my Hawks woes. I’m glad to hear Josh is continuing to strengthen up. He’ll need that for his post play. What I think would really make him dangerous is for an entire summer of ball-handling training. I think if he didn’t have to pay so much attention in not loosing the ball, Josh would be even more of a wrecking ball in the open court than he already is. And when is Josh gonna start getting aggressive again with the dunking? He seems to try to make a point that he can score without dunking so much that he doesn’t do it when he should.

By doc

August 19, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this

nice article team usa:

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/beijing/basketball/news;_ylt=AjUoaEgDXWMb6dmSw2ae2fG8vLYF?slug=aw-usaworld081708&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

By Jim

August 19, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

Hey Sekou, thanks very much for your response. I kind of suspected it but I haven’t seen Crit play enough to draw my own conclusions and wanted to get an opinion from someone that not only has seen him play but has a valuable opinion as well.

Now that you’ve got me excited about making this trade is there any way you can get a hold of Wallace Prather(Crit’s agent) and find out what is going on with him? He certainly seems like the odd man out in Memphis and I don’t see “ANY” other teams linked with Javaris on the internet except the Magic. Thanks again, kind sir!

By kgbsfinst

August 19, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

I remember Woodson did an interview a few months ago, I think right after he was resigned, and he seemed to admit he was wrong for not playing some of the bench more. The one he was mostly talking about was Law, but he said he should have played him more. This gives me hope that maybe, just maybe, he realizes he needs to expand his offensive scheme and include the two studs in the post. We can only hope!

By keithedmundson returns

August 19, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Sekou, appreciate your continued updating for all of us, even if it has to include a blip of the maize and blue. Coach Rod is a keeper; he’s just going to bring a different kind of attack there and it might take a couple of recruiting classes to get it up to OSU standards. To pawn off the other bloggers, I do see Acie and Crit having similar careers as they continue to try to prove themselves to anyone they can. A good fit for Crit would be Dallas, behind JKidd. He would get plenty of minutes and share the backcourt with JT, who needs to step up this year if they will threaten the big wigs. And IMO, Ben Gordon is a pure fit for the Warriors and/or the Western conference. How much would the Spurs love to have that weapon coming behind Ginobili/Parker? Take some of the back-to-back games minutes away and Gordon would be lights out for most Western Teams. Those teams know they have to step it up to get to the playoffs.
Finally, this Hawks team is starting to shape up at least from a competitive approach. Plenty of backcourt battles will be raged during training camp and the losers IMO are the young SL standouts. Flip, Evans, Acie & Speedy could make for some interesting options behind the big 5. Our main issue is still the frontcourt. Morris needs to establish some stability when Al/Smoove go to the bench. Zaza is a defensive liability and Smoove almost has to be on the court at the same time with him. Could Al/Morris get a few minutes together against perhaps Cleveland, who play half court ball exclusively?
Right now, you gotta have a good feeling about the Hawks competing, but can they transform those road woes to a few early wins? The EOY schedule is a big advantage should we stay around .500 thru Feb.

By Mike

August 19, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Sekou, You still have not talked about Marvin. Is his added strength going to mean a more polished and aggressive offensive game this season. We all know he can shoot but how is his ball handling, basketball IQ and agressiveness coming along. Will he play with a chip on his shoulder because of all the pub his frontcourt mates, Smith and Horford, get over him?

By Mike

August 19, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Sekou, You still have not talked about Marvin. Is his added strength going to mean a more polished and aggressive offensive game this season. We all know he can shoot but how is his ball handling, basketball IQ and agressiveness coming along. Will he play with a chip on his shoulder because of all the pub his frontcourt mates, Smith and Horford, get over him?

By Frustrated Fan

August 19, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

I was at that game on Saturday afternoon as well. I was impressed with Josh’s jump shot in the second half. I was sitting with his pops Pete and Lou Williams parents. Lou Williams is better than most give hm credit for. But as a Hawks fan, I must say that Josh has gotten a lot better. Granted, the summer league game is more like AAU…just run up and down the court…not much defense until the last 5 minutes. I must disagree and say that J. Crittendon will not be all that good in the upcoming yrs as u say. Hawks have to find a scheme to play to Josh’s skill set. Having him out on the 3-point line with JJ having the rock with the shot clock winding down is the reason Josh has the stigma that he cant shoot. JJ gives him the ball when he cant do anything with it and the shot clock is at 4 seconds. Can’t wait till the season…Josh was mad about that loss Saturday cuz he missed the last shot as time expired to win the game, and he and Lou Williams love braggin about who won.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 19, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

I’ve talked to Marvin Mike but I haven’t seen him since the playoffs ended. I’d imagine that he realizes that his fourth season is as crucial as we all know it to be.

His added bulk will help him in several ways, including operating around the basket. Bigger and stronger opponents in the paint have manhandled Marvin at times early in his career. But he’s maturing and hopefully has a better grasp on how to operate when he goes inside.

I don’t know that the pub his teammates receive would cause him to play with any chip on his shoulder. But if that fires him up, that’s a good thing. I’d imagine, though, that he has many more motivating factors on the brain these days (mainly this being a contract year, the fact that he has to solidify his spot on this team and the drive to be great).

Training camp for Marvin is going to be huge so we can see exactly how he operates with all that added mass.

By MannyT

August 19, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Blog question—is the Women’s Olympic team better than the Men’s team over the past several years because many of them play in Europe during the winter? (More familiarity with the players and style?)

Why do I bring this up? If the flow of NBA players to Europe continues, would we consider making one of them (NBA talents playing in Europe) the 12th man down the road. Not because they are better talents, but because they have more familiarity with the competition. Just a thought.

kgbsfinst I hope you are correct. However, I recall Woody preaching the running game last October. He got a lot of folks excited. It lasted about 5 games before he buried that idea. Not saying he cannot change, but I am saying that I’ll look at his bench usage around New Years to see if he sticks by his comments.

doc It’s interesting to see that the current Olympic Hoops team seems to be much better at public relations than the squads of the recent past. It is amusing that it is noticed by the rest of the world. It gives the message—the world doesn’t mind losing to nice guys, but it is annoying when the US is standoffish even when they lose (over the past few years.)

Sekou The best US peek at the Jamaican High School track phenoms is usually at the Penn Relays (Philly) in late April. They send some serious teams up there every year.

…and I’d be happy to close the WAFFLE House once we get a bit more from the team than expected.

Olympic CRAP rules for 5 more days!

By ToeKnee

August 19, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Sekou, love ur contributions to the chatterbox this week. So do you really think the Hawks should go inside more next year? Obviously Josh and Al are guys youve GOT to work into ur offense on the reg, but with bibby healthy and joe bein joe youve got two great shooters on the outside. i think workin it through josh and al could only create more opportunities for joe and bib. and maybe morris can bring some serious size to our team if he can find a way to be productive. usa’s gonna roll to the gold, and yes, that has been a foregone conclusion, im just ready for training camp to start, enough of this international talk with childress and the olympics, im sick of it, the nba and the usa is where the partys at, so everybody needs to chill out thinkin the us is fading, and all these other contries are gonna take over the world like china, get real.

By Ariose Sir Links A Lot (S.F)

August 19, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

……..So anyway, Sund is out of my doghouse for now. That doesn’t mean I like his GM skills yet, but he’s in limbo for now.

Sekou, Is ben gordon’s defense really that bad? I’ve never really noticed that he was a liability on the defensive end. Then again I rarely ever watch a Bulls game….epecially this previous year (ouch).

By Ariose Sir Links A Lot (S.F)

August 19, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Shame on you for sleeping on Lou (That rymes lol.) He’s always played bigger than his size (3rd shortest player on our HS squad, #1 HS player in the country…..freakishly strong for his size…he absorbes contact like a sponge) and in HS he drained 40-Footers on the regular. I have to admit though, I was baffled by his peremeter game when he stepped in the leauge too. But then he’d come back Snellville in the summer and play at the local gyms and you couldn’t pay him to miss a shot.

The same goes for Jarett Jack as well. He was a beast at GT, sweet stroke as well….IDK what to say, it must be the Gatorade they hand you on the sidelines during NBA games……Apperently it’s not good for younger players LOL.

By jhan

August 19, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Nice link to the Flip video.

Anybody think this wasn’t a good move?

We haven’t had anyone come off the bench that can play like that since Woody has been coach. Hopefully he can fill the role that Salim was supposed to fill. We really need someone who will score when JJ is getting some rest.

Hopefully JJ only has to play 35-38 minutes per game this year.

By MannyT

August 19, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

ToeKnee Given the lack of NBA activity in August, why hate on expanded conversation. This is probably the best time of year for most NBA folks to take a vacation because there is so little going on. How much 50 days into free agency, Ben Gordon is still unsigned, but let’s not talk about the possibility of him leaving the NBA do you want? Aside from the Olympics Hoops Teams, the handful of NBA players that want media coverage in August probably cannot get it because most of the folks that cover them are taking a break. I think we are lucky that Sekou didn’t hang out the Gone Fishin’, See you at the end of September sign.

Ariose Nice vid link as usual. Don’t tell me that you will be converting to LouWilFan before the season starts. Yes, I recall that he’s da man from your HS. However, absorbing contact from an 18 yr old vs a 28 yr old has to be very different. Especially given the accepted level of contact in the NBA vs HS. Good to see that his game has come around, but at least w/Salim you could pull out college video. If you start pulling out HS video showing Lou shaking a 16 yr backup from Little Sisters of the Drought HS, I will not be impressed.

While my Sund jury is still out, I am amused that he’s out of the doghouse for bringing in a guy that he has known for years in Flip Murray. jhan There is another side to the Murray signing, but I see no need to throw the sports administrative side of the organization under the bus once again. We have enough time this summer to get into that one later. I will wait and evaluate. I do like the fact that the new guys seem hungry enough to make camp interesting. I give Sund credit for that.

…and Olympic CRAP still rules for 5 more days!

By Ken Strickland

August 19, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

With 2 shooters/scoreres like Murray and Evans coming off the bench, Chills would probably be even more effective operating near the basket. Man, I’m going to miss him. With Acie, , Speedy, Murray and Evans coming off the bench, plus JJ and Bibby, we’ll be able to put a lot of OFF/DEF pressure on opposing PG/SG’s.

Our starting lineup is in tact. So, who will come off the bench. Acie, Speedy, Zaza, Evans, Murray and Morris are locks. That leaves only one position open, and it will likey go to a BIG, since Zaza and Morris are our only ones on the bench. So, that leaves Solomon or OHunter.

By Sekou K. Smith

August 19, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

They need to go inside more this year ToeKnee. Certainly they do. They didn’t do it last year and teams knew they could prepare easily for the Hawks because they were so perimeter oriented.

Teams aren’t going to just allow JJ and Bibby to abuse them from deep. You have to be able to play inside and out. Previously the Hawks were so young and inexperienced inside that they seemed to always lean on JJ rather than taking a chance on playing through the young bigs. But these guys are growing up fast enough that you have to give them a chance to become integral parts of what you do on offense.

The time is now.

By Sautee

August 19, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

Sekou

The time IS now, but will Woody actually do it?

I’ve been hollarin’ all off season that Horford needs touches every third time down. Not because of his offensive prowess, but because he makes great decisions. A big who makes good decisions opens up the floor for everybody. Anyone who has gone back and watched the wins in the Celtics series could see how Big Al set up JJ for 3’s. That should be a staple of this so-called “offense”. Also, Woodson should have a high-low set with Horford at the key. When he was a Gator, he fed Noah and Richards for two to three dunks a game. USE HIS TALENTS!

By Ken Strickland

August 19, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

Come on SEKOU, we all know who has to make the decision to go through our young bigs. Paranoia is the word that comes to mind when a HC is so adverse to trusting/using young players, especially when he’s losing and that’s primarily what he has.

I’d wish you would talk to Woodson and try to find out how much he’s developed since being rehired and winning out over BK. His development as a HC is as much a key to the success of the Hawks as any FA signings and/or development of individual players.

By mykhalc

August 19, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Sekou, you never did answer my question for the last blog. is your article on the guards rotation based on your take or WOODSON’s??? like i said before, FLIP for JJ, EVANS for MARVIN. and again, if you’re right, who’s in for MARVIN since CHILS was 1st off the bench for him?? shed some light bro!!!

By Sekou K. Smith

August 19, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

My take mykhalc, all mine.

Woody is going to coach the way he sees fit and not be too concerned with what the beat writer has to say about it. But around here, we all get to have opinions on how things should be done.

Sautee is dead on about the high low set on offense with Horford as the high post man. That’s something I hadn’t really examined but realize after seeing it written that it would be ideal.

If for no other reason than they’ve been running the same system for four years, the Hawks have to add some wrinkles this season. They can’t come back with the exact same stuff because the other staffs that they’ve faced the past few years will be ready for whatever they do.

And there’s always some wiggle room when you’re talking about NBA depth charts. Most guys play two or three positions anyways, so Flip and Evans will no doubt work behind JJ but Flip can also work behind Bibby and Evans behind Marvin. And Horford can work at power forward when Josh Smith is out of the game and so on and so forth.

By mykhalc

August 19, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

Sekou, thanks for the answer man.

yep, totally feel ya on the wiggle room. for me, it’s one of my 1st questions only ‘cause it was ‘SET’ with WOODSON that CHILS was in for MARVIN around the 6min mark in the 1st qtr (i think that is close to accurate). so given WOODSON’s set ways it’s hard for me to think he’ll deviate far from his script, no matter how much some wanna believe he’ll change. i ain’t one of ‘em!!! anyway, so given his script, i’d say look for the new face to fill the same script, which is why i said EVANS for MARVIN, FLIP for JJ. anyway, my 2cents!!!

By kwooden1

August 19, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Its good to see JS working on his inside game and dropping more jump shots. I agree with everyone on the offense, but I will continue what I’ve said all last year, Woody’s problems come during the games not before. We all clearly saw the lack of adjustments or believe in the system from the players when things aren’t going well. Having a healthy Bibby in the line-up is going to make a big difference (contract year from him also) and I hope that Evans can make up for some of the things that Chills did. I see Flip doing the same things that Anthony J. was doing early last year, but just coming off the bench. We really need to see improvement from Marvin, especially range and the ability to finish at the rim with contact. I’m on the bandwagon with looking to trade Marvin early in the season, if we don’t see great progress. (GOT to make room for Al’s big salary, whenever it comes)

GO HAWKS!!

By Ariose Sir Links A Lot (S.F)

August 20, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

Manny….LOL no LouWillFan here heh.

Of course if I DID show you a video it would be of be of SG beating up on Eric Devendorf (Syracuse) and the rest of that Oak Hill Squad. And then right after that game they went straight to Mississippi to play Monta and his squad (those National schedules are rediculous). Triple Overtime thriller Lou had 36 and Monta had 46. Ellis’ squad won, but we just played oak hill hours earlier…….they got lucky…..anyhoo….I promise you’d have been entertained.

By ray

August 20, 2008 6:53 AM | Link to this

Tools are there. But they are no good if the Carpenter doesn’t know how to use them.

By Samuel

August 20, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

ASLAL,

No excuses. I do have that entire Game , Monta vs Lou Will, on DVD.

By MannyT

August 20, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

new blog up