Hawks

By richbrave

October 2, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

SWEET, Sekou.

By fudd21

October 2, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

Sekou, You really didn’t mention Morris at all. How did he look? You’re right about Marvin. If he really has developed the 3 point shot he will be tough to guard.

By Samuel

October 2, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

A few weeks back, I said that Solo would come up Big this year. the few minutes that he played in last year’s playoffs showed me a lot about his potential.

He(Solo)will eventually be the first big man off the bench say by the Allstar Break. I say again, Mike Bibby will make a strong push for the Allstar team this year.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 2, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

It would be huge if either Solo or Morris could become a contributor off the bench and push Zaza for playing time. The more big bodies the better, in a division with Dwight Howard and Emeka Okafor.

By Tyger

October 2, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this

Great Post

Knew Flip would be a great pickup.

Glad to see Solo stepping up his game too. Hope Woody continues to play him when it counts.

Very interested to hear about Morris and Gardner.

By honest_abe

October 2, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

great stuff!

i wasn’t a huge acie law guy. thought crittenton made more sense. hope he still turns into something special but i won’t be surprised at all if speedy takes over as the backup pg.

i like the makeup of this team and if solo looks half as good as you say, look out!

By Gray Mule

October 2, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Great article. Informitive and easy to follow. Like that foremat.

Gray Mule

By Dan

October 2, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Sekou

That is great stuff! Thanks!

I cannot wait for this season to start! This team is going to be heard from.

My season tickets arrived today! Let’s get this thing started!

By MannyT

October 2, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Sekou If you have a bonus kicker that is related to number of posts, have your agent check into the posting void. Now that the team is back, the blogoshere is stepping it up. We have new stuff to critique. No need to canniblog when you can talk about actual Hawk happenings. I also like the note thing…it’s like a twist you have added to your game!

doc as I tried to say many times yesterday and this morning, I look forward to seeing you in the 108. As for LoWright, that popcorn thing might be big when he retires. I can see a cross between Ashton Kutcher’s Punked and some reality TV show where LoWrigh has the role of dumping a bunch of popcorn on some unsuspecting victim at the end of the spoof. They might get the NFLs Mr. Popcorn in on the deal.

I hope Mario can learn from Mo Evans how to focus that energy as a defensive specialist. If Solo & Zaza played well together, maybe they come off the bench together when we play bigger, more physical centers. If Zaza can stay in front of the guy, Solo can be that weakside swatter to keep the offense off balance.

In my homage to the underdog. YELLOW TEAM, YELLOW TEAM. At least 3 of those guys have to make the squad. How was Rusty/Speedy today? More importantly, if he played good minutes, how will he feel tomorrow?

Just for the last part of your notes, I’ll roll out Woody’s Happy - Apocalypse Tomorrow?

Yup, you just started WHAT?

By A Real Fan

October 2, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this

Enjoyed reading you notes so much, Sekou. The only thing better, would have been, being there in person watching the action!

By reg

October 2, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

Dang Sekou, good stuff. Thats what I’m talking about. Forget ESPN, we getting low down on our team in-person, not some ESPN stat freak guessing what he think based on what numbers and their gut. I like the report on Solo, dissapointed that Law aint quite tearing it up. He really needs to have a breakout year at the point. Would it hurt to move Solo at the 5 spot or have him play off the bench at the PF position? Look out Eastern Conference, new team on the rise. GO HAWKS!!!

By reg

October 2, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this

I like that name: Flip Mo Suad(Flip Murray). Was that u Astro Joe that came up with that name? That tight, I might have to use that one when I at the games or yelling at the T.V.

By MannyT

October 2, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

Dan I forgot how much happiness comes in a little box!

While I am not a professional photographer, I think the person that took the pics on the Hawks BasketBlog needs camp time to step up his or her game. Several of these pics seem blurry in the wrong places.

Nevertheless, blurry pics are better than no pics in the preseason.

The D-League must like Atlanta. They had their summer showcase in the burbs (Gwinnett I believe) and now they will be here for their draft…granted it’s in the NBA-TV studios. It’s basketball and it’s here!

Sekou Just for your ref love. The NBA released their report on officiating. It’s long—I’ll read it later. Not too much ATL specific stuff, but there was one incident that cracked me up. Would you buy a book from a brother? I’m grading your performance…page 90 in hardcopy/102 in PDF.

That’s referee PAIN!

By mykhalc

October 2, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

excellent post SEKOU!!!

By Lacsho

October 2, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

Sekou

I was about to turn hater mode on you. I loved the notes. I feel like I was at the practice. I told people Solo was going to be the difference maker. I didn’t hear too much about Morris though. Looks like Solo is trying to be the first big man off the bench. And if were running like we’re suppose to, we can take five out and put five in. Now that’s some (ish) for your azz. Nino keep the blue tops coming.

Seems like there’s going to be a lot of pressure on Woody, can he make the necessary adjustments. For the first time in years, we have 12 strong players.

Banks you were on point with the FlipMoSquad. We’re going to have to get some t-shirts printed up.

By DEE DEE

October 2, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this

I’m proud of all our hawks workin hard 2 improve their games it workin we will shock da nba this year da year of da hawks

By DEE DEE

October 2, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

I’m proud of all our hawks workin hard 2 improve their games it workin we will shock da nba this year da year of da hawks

By chuckw/deadjournalist

October 2, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

great stuff sekou, really, that was a top-knotch blog.

i don’t want to get too excited about the first scrimmage, but maybe the team has turned the corner.

if espn can pick the braves to finish 1st, and then they have a horrible season, maybe them picking the hawks to finish last is good foreshadowing.

By Sekou K. Smith

October 2, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Morris looked good. Had a sweet block on Zaza and one nice feathery baseline jumper. He’s a big body and a solid offensive player that will have to crank up his defense to play for Woody. But he’s got a shot to be a serious steal considering what the Hawks paid to get him.

Gardner didn’t work today (still on the shelf with the calf injury I believe).

I barely mentioned Joe but you all know what he can do. I was just relaying the stuff that stood out to me during the scrimmage. Just the basics.

Don’t meant to hype anybody unnecessarily, but the guys that stood out made it to the blog.

Somebody else that was there might have seen something totally different. You never know. But it was a good showing overall. There were no weak links out there on the floor when the first 10 guys were going nose to nose.

And if I’m right about dude, Flip might end up being the guy with the edge and the subtle fire that could really make this crew dangerous. He’s got the right attitude and the perfect opportunity on this team to assume that role.

By cp

October 2, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Great info SS. I really hope Acie gets it together this year. He can get to the hole with ease but needs to work on his finishing. He also has to stop being so tentative and show us what made him so great in college. I have high hopes for the kid so I hope he shows signs of being a good pg this year.

By ray

October 2, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Samuel,

I clowned you a little bit a good while back about Solo being “the difference maker” in the paint for the Hawks this season. So far, according to Sekou’s notes, you were right, and I was wrong. Nice call. At the same time, I hope that he not only gets a valid chance to show more of this in games, but that he continues to show it.

Ant Banks, that Flip/Mo squad shiz is off the chain. Oh, you own the phrase and the copyright. The phrase has now become enshrined on this blog. ALL BLOGGERS IN FAVOR SAY “AYE”! Those opposed can cram it up their keister…..now if we can get a Hawks promotional commercial featuring Busta Rhymes in between whistle blows. I’m tired of that Phillips/Norelco commercial with the Italian singer in the background and the young couple makin’ triplets….but that’s sportsouth for ya.

One thing that stood out to me about the interview with Solo: He said that before, he was trapping himself by having the “I have to play my role” thought being the only thought in his mind.

I hate to keep baggin’ on Woody, but I swear that’s cut right from his book. I think this is also how Sheldon got himself in the situation he was in (though I still think he’s less talented). It takes mental strength for guys to succeed. That’s why you see a guy like Al Horford, who had less statistical success than Sheldon in college, succeed in ways that others cannot. That’s why I still don’t believe that “we shouldn’t have drafted this guy or that guy because he wouldn’t be so good under Woody.” Players with the mental strength and confidence do well. Those without it, do not. And those that catch on and realize that neither Woody, nor any other coach determines how good they really are….eventually succeed. Let’s hope that both Solo and Acie are guys who fit that category. It’s really simple: Good players with the right mental approach and confidence will force a coach to play them…because they are that good.

If Acie doesn’t understand this, he will never get off the bench. Especially with Flip and a healthy Speedy out there. Last year was Woody’s mistake. Acie should’ve played more. This year, Woody has decent options. And Acie is only one of a handful of those options….

One other thing about Solo. He kind of took the same path that Josh Smith took by going off on his own to improve his game. I really wondered what he was doing when he didn’t go to summer league. Lifting weights is great, but not enough when you need to work on your skills. Apparently he has been. But that really says something about this organization more than it does anything else.

If these players are having to go elsewhere to improve, then there’s something wrong. Wrong with management, and wrong with coaching.

The organization should be bringing people in to help these guys. Alton Lister hasn’t done squat. Smith went to Houston to get help. Solo avoided summer league. Mark Price is the first guy I’ve seen added that makes any sense. And the question is whether or not he’ll be allowed to do what he can do, and if he’ll be good at it. We’ll see. That’s one change Sund needs to make, and hopefully Price is the start of it. Again….we’ll see.

But hell, no time to get down about all of this. I’m ready to see what these guys can do in competition next Monday! Yeahhhhh baby…

By ray

October 2, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

Sekou, thanks for really great info. I think you’re right on the money with RandMo though. I have never doubted that he’s got good offensive skills. But if he goes all Sheldon on us, he’ll never see the floor…

By ray

October 2, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this

I sure hope Bibby stays healthy. His shooting will help stretch the defense, whether it’s half court offense or running game. That will help Smith when it comes to slashing to the basket.

In all of this though, I don’t see Marvin getting 18-19 points a game. If he does, either he’s playing JJ-like minutes or somebody else in the starting lineup isn’t getting the ball….but who would that be?

By Mike is back

October 2, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Sekou, great post!!!

It looks like Solo is starting to figure things out, I am so proud of that cat. Flip and Mo should be huge coming off the bench this season. If we could get some stout play from Solo and Morris, the Hawks could be a match-up nightmare this season.

I love the notes, I feel like at the scrimmage. Don’t get to post much but always reading.

GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Samuel

October 2, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Thanks Ray,

We’ll see when the season starts on Solo. One thing that I like about him is that he’s even tempered. He seems not to let things bother him. That can be good in this era of blogs and such. The guy has tremendous talent. He can be that big we’re all wishing for. Let’s hope so.

On Marvin and points. I’m sure Woody wasn’t saying what he said to be specific about numbers and averages. He was mostly telling Marvin that he needed to be more consistant in all areas. In my opinion, Marvin is a role player and possibly not even starter potential in the NBA. I’ve never seen him as a great player but he can play a tremendous ROLE on this team. Boston won last year with 3 great players and some tremendous role players. That’s the way it’s done. Everybody can’t be the star.

We have 3, maybe 4 players who are capable of being Allstars in: JJ, Bibby, Josh and Al and that’s good, considering the last few years. The rest can and must know that they are role players and embrace that fact.

Can you guys visualize Sarah Palin as president?

By femhawkfan

October 2, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

I am just glad that mini camp has started! I have really enjoyed reading Sekou’s blogs with updates from camp. I like what I hearing. The guys seem really motivated this year. I really think that they are going to do well this year.

By Swatguy

October 2, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Sekou, What about Speedy?

By kwooden1

October 2, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

Sekou, we can’t ask for better basketball commentary from a Training Camp scrimmage game. The things that stuck out to you were all the things that we on the blog we’re looking for; 3pt shooting for Marvin, constant slash and finish from Smoove, aggressive play and chemistry from Flip and Mo and overall game improvement from Solo. You also commented on Acie. These are all good signs, especially the play of Morris, Solo and Zaza. But what you said about Smoove has really started to change my mind about the key to this team being very good if not great. (Marvin is the key for most of us) If Smoove becomes that consistant 3rd scorer, who gets his points at the rim (slash and finish) we actually have a Contender on our hands! Clearly Bibby can play, JJ needs to be double teamed, but if Smoove becomes a guy that you have to double-team also, then we have our version of the Big 3! (like Boston, Washington, Lakers, etc) Not as good right now, but if they can just hold their own…. That leaves Al and Marvin one-on-one or one-on-none, more open shots for Marvin to drain.

Sekou keep-up the great work!

GO HAWKS!!

By mred

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

who will win the final roster spot West, Robinson,or gardner

By doc

October 3, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

this is real good. dont neglect checking it out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jfsdD111MY

major rofl titer.

By doc

October 3, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

a biggie;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1XyoxfjD5V4

By Ken

October 3, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

Hey Sekou, did you get an idea of who would be the most likely to start at the five in a bigger line-up(Zaza, Morris, Solo); so Al could move to the 4 and Josh to the 3? How did speedy claxton look or did he get much burn? And i haven’t seen a lot of Solomon Jones, how athletic is he? Is he somewhere between Josh Smith(freakish) and Marvin Williams(stiff)?

By The Truth

October 3, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this

After the first scrimmage, the final roster spot is TBD. I’m more concern about Acie. He has to show progress. Every since he’s been here, he has been pre-ordain to be the PG of the future for the Hawks. I think that halo is blunting his drive and hurting his growth. He must understand, the self-fulfilling prophecy will not happen automatically. It will not be handed to him on a silver platter. He’s got to earn it. He’s got to seize the moment and TAKE IT!!

If he doesn’t sense that this year with these other competing able-body PG’s, then he could end up as a permanent backup or worst.

By Lacsho

October 3, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

Marvin a role player, my man give me a break. The number two pick in the draft a role player. If that’s the case, they would’ve gotten rid of Marvin with Shelden. Are we all reading the same thing? This reminds me of the debate. The republicans say their candidate won, and the Democrats say their candidate won. However, the non bias people always seem to recognize the true winner. Bibby will be more effective as a facilitator who can keep the defense honest by nailing his outside shot. Furthermore, by Marvin hitting the three consistently, he will reap havoc on the other teams. They won’t be able to double up on JJ, and our offense shouldn’t be stagnate.

I will correct myself from an earlier blog. I stated Woody should announce the point guard spot is up for grabs, and Acie will give Bibby a run for his money, but it seems like Flip might be the monkey wrench. So therefore I stand corrected. Hopefully, Acie will bring the noise. I still say he’s our future point guard.

Ken

I’d enjoy seeing Solo, Al, and Josh in the game at the same time. They should be able to hold the fort down in the paint. Man I’m really exicited, I’ll be there on the 11th.

I hope we see JJ taking it to the hole like Kobe (dunking on everybody).

By Gypsyjoe

October 3, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

The note’s on todays practice was great. I think it is good that everybody is showing us no respect. That will realy be a thing that will keep the guys playing hard. I think this team can do some damage. I realy like the Depth this year. Keep up the great update’s GO HAWKS!!!!!

By Clyde

October 3, 2008 2:46 AM | Link to this

Solomon Jones!!!!

By BA

October 3, 2008 3:01 AM | Link to this

I know it’s been said already, but this blog was a real treat. Strong, Mr. Smith.

Ray shines as a diplomat, nice to see. if the cat can correspond peacfully with me, clearly he can work with anybody!

I don’t think these guys working out/improving on their own reflects poorly on the coaching staff. People are individuals, I don’t have a problem with where their growth takes place. I’m just glad these “young veterans” are taking the initiative.

The improvement from Marvin and Solo is exciting. And the FlipMo squad, well, look out. Add in Speedy, Two-years-ago ZaZa, Acie, RandMo (ando’s “next Tim Duncan”, hehe)…this could be a SQUAD.

45 wins, easy. People are selling this team and coaching staff short.

By blue hawk

October 3, 2008 5:56 AM | Link to this

Hearing the news on Solo is great. I read his profile on draftexpress and it’s nice to see him address his weaknesses which were bulk and strength. As aggressive as he is now, he’ll be able to showcase his ‘feathery’ touch as well. This big man is a good free throw shooter and he should be encouraged to bang inside and get fouled.

Hoffa and Smoove have not yet gained recognition for their passing ability.

I think our coaches have not realized a weapon in there hands yet in the fact that our big man duo can both pass well. Hoffa averaged a little over 3 assists a game during the playoffs while Smoove averaged just under 3 (Smoove is capable of more assists). I hope the staff will realize this and put it to good use, making it an integral part of the Hawks offense, passing to open teamates, open jump shooters and cutters and in transition. Can someone please teach Hoffa the ‘outlet pass’?

By blue hawk

October 3, 2008 6:51 AM | Link to this

We definitely have a hardworking bunch in the frontcourt. Types who work hard to improve their bodies and skills. Hoffa, Smoove, Marv, Solo and even Zaza have worked on themselves. Hunter is also that kind of player too. Having a negative reputation on this regard, I’m sure the work ethic and the attitude will definitely be assimilated by RandMo. Put into the mix Jim Todd as big man coach and we will have ourselves a frontcourt that will develop and be able to hold it’s own this season and in the coming years.

I just hope they learn something from Rasheed Wallace and his dwindling conditioning throughout last season. Our young bigs have to learn that they have to maintian their conditioning throughout the season.

Veteran big man guidance is definitely a need. I’m thinking of Cliff Robinson, one of the best low post defenders ever. and Corliss Williamson, the Big Nasty, a beast down low. Adrian Dantley was my first choice for low post offensive coach but he’s still with the Nuggets. I was hoping maybe we could get Uncle Cliffy and the Big Nasty even if just as consultants or assistant coaches.

By richbrave

October 3, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this

Don’t get too excited yet sports fans. Over on the WIZARDS blogs, the same high spirits rule. Improved players abound. Some of these unbalanced thinkers even predict a higher finish for POLLIN’s team. I am more pessimistic on the WIZARDS prospects although I do have infinate faith in the coach unlike here. No ARENAS. I wonder how much insurance is paying of that 111 million.

By blue hawk

October 3, 2008 8:16 AM | Link to this

richbrave

you should read news on the Pistons. their ‘young core’ is causing a lot of excitement and is almost ripe for the picking. and everybody’s excited too about their return to a defensive mindset with new coach Curry. expect the pistons to be strong this year. the right respected coach plus fresh young blood will take them all the way.

By Astro Joe

October 3, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

Ray, maybe Sekou can weigh in on this, but during the off-season, I’m not sure that the CBA allows players to formally work out with coaches. Even more recently, when the players were at Phillips playing pick-up games, I kind of doubt that any coach could provide guidance/instruction.

Now, with that said, one would think that there are ways around that issue, when you have folk like Dennis Scott, Steve Smith, Grant Long and others in and around the city. (I left ‘Nique out since he is employed by the Hawks).

I do agree that the “play your role” comment sounds like Woody-speak. Solo decided to put himslef in that “role box” and didn’t realize until this summer that he held the key to unlocking that cage.

Sekou, LOVE THE NOTES!!!!! It makes each of us feel like we were there, scouting the action. Feel free to do more of that, as you are allowed to view the scrimmages/practices.

By Aaron B

October 3, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Sekou, very nice blog. I like this style, keep it up plz. Plus it would be good to add more to it after your notes to shore up other noteworthy events or impressions you may have had. So Al thought Josh and Solo were the two most improved cats coming out of the summer break…. I wonder what he saw in Josh that led him to believe that. He has always been a hard cover for anyone due to his freakish athleticism, and skills around the basket.

By bali

October 3, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

thanks for such a insightful article on the hawks. I have always enjoyed your articles because you really seem to enjoy what you are doing. Keep up the good workand keep writing such good accounts on the progress of the hawks.

By Lloyd

October 3, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Sekou, are there any plans to have an open scrimmage at Phillips or some other venue as has been the case in past years?

By I.MUS WRITE

October 3, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

“Acie still strikes me as being a little tentative” …..I hope he works it out before the season starts. If not I think a healthy speedy is a better option at back up Pg.

The second unit is really intriging…Flip/Mo/Solo/Zaza gives us an opprotunity to rotate 8-9 a night sumthing we didnt have last year.

Glad to see Solo beasting out there…..I think his basketball IQ had to catch up with his body….The guy is 6’10 with supa long arms and good vertical….this translates into alot of shots being erased. I think if he stays consistent he will be the first big off the pine.

Flip is no suprise, I think sum folks forgot he averaged 22 a game the 03/04 season while Ray Allen was hurt. Im just waiting him to come out gunning off the bench….which will make sum of us say-Chillz who Line ups i like- Bibby/JJ/Smoove/Al/Solo Bibby/Evans/JJ/Smoove/Al Acie/Flip/Marv/Smoove/Solo Bibby/Flip/JJ/Marvin/Al

I dont think Morris will see alot of run -he may become the new LO Wright used only to commit fouls on opposing bigs…..Hope he has some kinda Defense to him.

By terrell barron

October 3, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

Samuel, who’s Sarah Palin? Is that the woman from Saturday Night Live?

By terrell barron

October 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Sorry Solo? I guess I was wrong for bashing you for not attending Summer League. I’m sorry. But I still need to see it for myself. I know how Sekou likes to exaggerate a little bit. lol!!

By Willie Coyote

October 3, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

Solo becomming a player and Marvin extending his range…that has me intrigued about the rotation. If Solo can come into his own then I can’t wait to see him, Johs and Al on the court together. This team now has interchangeable parts at every position so foul trouble should never be an issue for these guys.

By ray

October 3, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

Samuel, I get what you’re saying. I was taking the “Marvin needs to average 18-19 a game” literally. I agree that he can play a tremendous role. With the guys we have, I have a hard time agreeing to the idea that some people have that he’ll be a 20ppg scorer.

Lacsho,

On the issue of Marvin being a role player. Perhaps it’s a bit of translation lost in the terminology. Perhaps “role player” is not the best way to describe him. He averages 14 and 5 a game (rough estimates, not actual stats), which is actually pretty good for what the average person probably defines as a role player. The way I see him is how he fits in the starting lineup. As of right now, and based on what we’ve seen from him in the last few years, he’s more of a “role player” than any other starter.

First, let’s examine the starting lineup as projected. Horford’s our best low post guy, bar none. He’s the best body-up defender and our best rebounder. Without having plays run for him, he’s a double digit scorer. He’ll be a double digit guy all year long. Smith is a unique talent all to himself. Our best weak-side or help defender, best shot-blocker, and second leading scorer and rebounder. He also gets a few dimes a game and is one of only three guys from last year who can break out for 25-30 points in a game more than 5 times in a season. Bibby is the best pg on our squad and probably the first or second best perimeter scorer. JJ is the best player and highest scorer.

That leaves Marvin. What does he do as well as anybody else? What does he do better than anybody else? Nothing. And this doesn’t make him a bad player by any stretch. I’m glad he’s learning the 3-ball. There are a few basic ways that he can expand his game: become more effective driving to the basket, learn some effective post scoring moves, and learn the three point shot.

I don’t see him being good enough yet to hit an average of 1 or 2 three pointers a game yet, unless he’s taking 6 or more such shots per game. That isn’t good. That’s more than Josh shot, and at a worse percentage. So what does Marv do? Go score in the post? That would require Horford and Smith (who are better at it and more naturally suited to it) to move out of the post to make room for him. That puts them right back at shooting lower percentage shots and an unbalanced offense…because guess who else is scoring from the outside (because that’s what they do better than anybody else)…

I don’t know what to say about this, other than I hope Marvin’s perimeter game is even better than before, but he does learn to take it to the hole. I think it was Ando that said it first: These guys aren’t all going to average 20 a game. I figure Josh Smith will average more than he did last year. A healthy Bibby will, too. JJ with less pressure on him probably will as well. And Horford needs to get the ball more. This is going to be interesting…..

By ray

October 3, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe, I failed to specify. I’m not calling out the guys on the coaching staff, I’m talking about the personal coaching in the offseason. I know the coaching staff isn’t involved with these guys during the offseason. I’m basically echoing what you’ve been saying: where are the consultants/specialists to work with these guys outside of the normal coaching and what not. I won’t down these guys for going and getting it, but like you I figure they shouldn’t have to chase it down to get it. The acquisition of Price is the first move by management to mitigate the situation. I still haven’t seen a solid move to bring the swing players and “big guys” a person to work with them.

terrell, LOL! Sarah Palin is your new VP of the United States if the GOP has their way….

By ant banks

October 3, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

i am glad to hear that the hawks are beastin and i am tellin’ you that the FLIP/MO squad is goin’ to keep us in some of these games.

sekou you told us how the players were ballin’ but did you notice how woody was actin’? was he screamin’ and hollerin’ and brow beatin’ players when they made mistakes? HE is the problem, not the players.

‘poop, ray, lacsho, sekou preciate the big ups on Flip/Mo squad…as someone else pointed out, if we still had sheldon he would be our busta.

By ray

October 3, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

Talk about strange….

I went on NBA.com to read the season previews of all the teams. Our preview showed Hunter and Gardner as additions to the team, and Mario West as one of the losses…either somebody missed the memo, or Sekou was seeing Mario’s ghost out there on the practice floor. Heh, heh!

Speaking of Gardner….the last guy I say who might have been a Hawks pg but missed out due to missing much of camp and what not with injuries was a fellow by the name of Chalmers a year or two ago. Cedric Bozeman got the spot instead (and he didn’t last either). Hope Gardner can get off the shelf, because this backcourt is loaded…and he’ll be an afterthought before he can blink.

By ant banks

October 3, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

guys, i swear we have a deep bench this year!! if woody plays his cards/players right, i can see us goin’ deep into the playoffs!! no way teams can match our bench. our bench this year is as good as the celts bench was last year

By ray

October 3, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Ant,

I’m still keepin’ an eye on ol’ Shellhead to see what he does…

By doc

October 3, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

i line up id like to see how it goes is a defensive line up with quicks and fire power. it will be speedy, mo, jj, josh and al.

as we sit here, we see a lot of combinations and permutations that woody can use, the question is can he do it on a regualr basis to keep the other guy off balance or as aj says run the team by the clock rather than the situation. he has used many excuses before, now is the time to see the rubber meet the road.

my overall assessment is there are fewer questions this year than last with what we have. i dont think there is too much argument there and that is helpful in anticipation for the season. none if it will matter when the first toss is in the air , we get to see how woody and my boy rick can keep it together or implode.

btw i am going down to the thrahers preseason game against the blues comp of my hawks rep leo sloss. i put a bit of a smile on his face when i signed up for tix the other day so he passed along the freebies . try him out if you have an interest in tix.

By Ken

October 3, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Yeah, I forget who said it, but it would be really beneficial for the hawks if they utilize Smoove and Horford’s passing skills. The hawks are tremendous on the break and in transition, but their half-court game looks horendous at times. You need playmakers(as well as good spacing) to make the offense move. And with the hawks now being so interchangeable at every positon, they should create a lot of mismatches and easy baskets. At the same time though must remember to take car of the ball and limit turnovers.

By Ben

October 3, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

The thing about these blogs is, Sekou isn’t mentioning who is doing a crappy job. So you can all be so excited that Bibby looks like he did in 2002, or Speedy might actually be healthy, but the fact that Acie, Marvin, and ZaZa have hardly been mentioned is not a good thing.

Of course, Marvin was mentioned for his 2-2 on 3’s, but how about penetrating the lane? Is he still awkward?

Is Acie any better than he was last year? Is he taking horrific contested jumpers 23 feet out? Is ZaZa playing any defense?

Not impressed.

By kirknga

October 3, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Bibby is shooting lights out. He’s a totally different player when he’s healthy.

If he remains healthy, he remains a Hawk. His shooting ability is just as important as his ability to distribute. His experience guiding teams headed to the playoffs is an intangible the Hawks aren’t going to want to give away anytime soon.

I still predict that Acie will not be able to outperform Bibby, except defensively.

Hopefully now with him healthy, fans will be able to see that trading for Bibby was one of BK’s best moves.

By Astro Joe

October 3, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Ray, I hear you. Didn’t Tree Rollins get fired recently from the WNBA, maybe he could be our big man consultant. LOL.

I realize that we are all of 1 scrimmage into the marathon, but consider the following. Most of us are concerned with the 96 minutes at C and PF. If, and once again, we’re only 1 scrimmage into things here, but if, Zaza and Solo could combine to give us 32 productive minutes/game (call it 18 for Z and 14 for Solo), then that leaves 64 minutes to split between the starters, Horford & Smith. That’s 32 minutes/game of intense “don’t worry about fouling out just ball out of control” minutes for those 2. Of course, there will be times when one or both can’t play around 32 minutes at those power positions because the opposition may be too big. But we’re not the only team in the conference without true bigs to play 36-40 minutes a game at both positions.

Like the Doctor* said, more answers than questions this year, especially if Solo and Zaza combine to consistently give 32+ minutes of solid play.

By Left knee hurts

October 3, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

I want to see the half-court offense expand to something better than ISO for JJ. I don’t mind it some of the time b/c JJ can pass out of the double. Please don’t hold the ball (dribble in place) for 10 seconds though waiting for the play to show. I see Marvin coming out big. Last year he was #2 scorer for a while before steady slipping down to sub 15ppg. SummerLeague 2007, Marvin went to the line something like 9 times a game. You ask what does Marvin do best on this team? Hit free throws.

By fudd21

October 3, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this

Ray I think the 18 - 19 ppg and our second leading scorer is where Marvin will wind up. I have always thought from an offensive standpoint his skills are better than Al and Josh. Sekou complimented his 3 point shooting at the scrimmage. If he hits that shot, it opens all kinds of driving lanes. In Josh’s interview, he said Marvin had added some low post wrinkles that would probably surprise us. If thats the case and that a BIG if, he’s going to be hard to guard.

You speak of Al being our best low post guy. From a defensive and rebounding outlook I agree, but from a offensive standpoint I disagree. I actually say JJ is. I think there was a reason our offense didn’t run through him more, because his post skills aren’t good enough to draw a double team or to make teams pay when he’s singled covered. Yes, he’s probably the smartest guy on the team and therefore makes great decisions but going up against guys bigger than him everynight limits his low post effectiveness.

Now are Marvin’s low post skills as good as Al’s. Toward the end of the season I would say yes. But who is going to have a better matchup. Marvin being guarded by someone that is on most nights an inch or 2 shorter and 15 pounds lighter. Or Al being guarded by someone an inch or 2 taller about and 20 pounds heavier. Give me Marvin on that one. Will this happen often, I doubt it because as you said it will get us back to being unbalanced.

But the biggest reason why I think it will happen is because Woody said it needs to. We all have agreed that Marvin hasnt shown the aggressive nature we wish he would. If your coach tells you I need 18 from you a night i think it puts the thought in your head that your team needs more and Marvin will accept that challenge and give us more.

But regardless of who scores, just somebody do it to take some pressure of JJ. Go Hawks!

By Still Searching

October 3, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Hopefully I can create an image for myself here. I’m a big Hawks fan and very opinionated at times (let my wife tell it). Anyhow..I like the vibe of this blog, so I’m going to thrust myself into the mix. Look forward to chatting with you cats throughout the season as our Hawks shock the East.

Here’s a thought. One of our liabilities last year was defense. Josh was left to handle the block shots and we relied on the rookie to get most of our boards (he did a stand out job…he was robbed for ROY, but I digressed). With that said, I’m glad to see the addition of larger bodies…pray GOD they can play some D.

I am proud of the offseason additions. I think we recovered well from losing Josh C with the addition of the FlipMo Squad…Ha…I like that.

By terrell barron

October 3, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Thats a scary thought, Ray!

By Ariose

October 3, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Astro Joe- Exactly. I also want to add that I don’t think it’s outrageous to beleive the all of our starters can average around 32 minuets a game. That’s 18 productive bench minuets at every position across the board. I don’t think it’s unreasonable at all……

By Lacsho

October 3, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

Ray As of right now, and based on what we’ve seen from him in the last few years, he’s more of a “role player” than any other starter. Every year Marvin has progressed. His first year in the league he averaged 8.5 ppg. The next year he averaged 13.1 ppg. Last year he averaged 14.8 ppg. Last year he averaged 14.8, and that was with no three’s. So this year with his added nuisances, Marvin’s projected to average 18 easy, if we can get his rebound average close to double figures he’ll be on point. Every NBA player has a role on his team; however, I do not see Marvin as a typical role player. (if that makes since) It’s up to Woody to define everyone’s role on this team. As Woody previously stated, he sees Marvin scoring contributions increasing, therefore he pretty much defined Marvin’s role as one of the leading scorers for this team. Bibby shouldn’t average more than 14 ppg; we need Bibby to keep other teams honest, not allowing them to double up on any player. Bibby should average 10 dimes. With this team we don’t need a scoring point guard, we need a facilitator, who can score if needed, but he must keep opposing teams honest.

That leaves Marvin. What does he do as well as anybody else? I think Marvin is the second best shooter on this team. Hopefully, he worked on his footwork, so he’ll become more effective driving to the basket. I don’t see him being good enough yet to hit an average of 1 or 2 three pointers a game. * Sekou is telling you he’s hitting the three rather effortlessly, so do you choose to overlook his assessment?* You can’t base you entire argument on the past. I would honor you comments If Marvin never worked on his game during the off season, but that’s not the case. If that was the case we wouldn’t be fiening for updates from Sekou. I think you sound like one of the espn guys. Again, I trust Sekou’s assessments Furthermore, Micah the guy who handles the blog at the official website pretty much backed up everything Sekou stated. You have to get out of the past Ray. You’re still my man, but let’s move forward. Again, only time will tell.

By Lacsho

October 3, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

Fud21

I agree with you 100%

By ray

October 3, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Joe,

Your thoughts on the spread of minutes should be signed, sealed, and delivered with the words “Attention: M. Woodson” on them.

Oh yeah…maybe we can get Clyde to spin up some shirts that say “Hire Tree, it’s good for the environment” Heh heh heh!

Fudd21,

I don’t know, bro’. First, I don’t think that Marvin’s skills are better than Josh’s or Al’s. I think they’re different. I don’t know what it is that so many people keep seeing there that’s so much better. He’s got a better shooting stroke on his midrange jumper. That’s about it. He’s not more athletic than either of his frontcourt mates, that is for sure. His ball-handling isn’t better. And you really can’t say that it is because he commits less turnovers. He doesn’t dribble enough (especially the length of the court) to commit any turnovers.

Before I go any further, I recognize his skills. But towards the end of the season, Horford’s 12-15 footer was getting to be just as good. Josh has further to go on his jumper than any of the three, but he’s the most unstoppable on the drive. Marvin takes bad angles on the drive, and he acts/looks like he’s not strong enough to finish one. How in the devil is he going to score down low, then? JJ was our best post scorer for one simple reason: The JJ ISO Effect. Isolate on the wing, isolate down low. It’s all the same play, just in different spots. Marvin wasn’t set up for plays like that, and neither was Horford.

On the flip side, I agree that Horford working against bigger opponents isn’t the best thing. But this is a direct result of the lineup we have. He’s a natural power forward, no matter how much we play him at center. And with Marvin in the starting lineup with Al and Josh, Al has to stay there…playing against bigger players every night. See the trap in all this? Al is the best center we have. Bar none. So he plays there. Now, the idea is to find a way to take advantage of that, or change the makeup of this roster. I think we both know which of the two is more likely to happen….

I like the idea of Marvin getting that 3-pointer going. But I’m not impressed with two three pointers made in a scrimmage. Making them in a real game is the confidence booster, and that’s what he’s going to have to do. And I think he is going to take the challenge, but I don’t know if it’s going to result in 18 or so points a night. One can only hope, and hope that it helps the team instead of simply coming at the expense of the production of others.

Having said that….who knows what will happen. One thing I think is for certain: we have the talent on this roster to make a LOT of noise. But the same ol’, same ol’ offensive schemes WILL NOT WORK. In order to make it back to the playoffs and be competitive….(obviously we need to remain healthy) better offensive schemes must be employed. Without that, this is another year of talent wasted.

By Lacsho

October 3, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Still Searching

Welcome to the blog. You have to get in where you fit in. I think the majority of us are very opinionated. Sometimes, it can get heated in here, but I think that’s the way we like it.

By Hawksville Resident

October 3, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

To answer your question Samuel: No. I guess guys this time of year everyone’s optimistic. You can spin any team positively especially when no one has a losing record. But I think we all can agree that the team that we saw during the playoffs at home was exciting and inspired. If we get that for 82 games we are going to win a lot more than we lose! Open Practice next Saturday!!!

By ILL-Logical

October 3, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

OK, here is the truth: Marvin cannot guard his positon! In the east alone you have LaBron; Paul Pierce; Gerald Wallace ; and,AI in Philly. All of these guys overpower him; out quick him and some of them can defend him. And you can’t play Marvin and ZaZa on the same front line-it becomes a lay up drill for the other team. He is to slow to guard the 3’s and to weak to guard the 4’s. Period. And with an undersized center , the Hawks simply cannot afford to have him on the floor for any length of time, shooting ability not withstanding.

So please, enough with the speculation/ imagination: he is what he is; a nice offensive player who at best is a designated scorer for the Hawks second unit or on a bigger/ better defensive team ,a second or third option.

The truth hurts but it will set you free.

By ray

October 3, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Lacsho,

Oh no you didn’t !(snaps fingers in the air)

Just kidding. But seriously, did you just clown me to the point of saying I sound like one of the ESPN guys? Damn man, that’s cold. Well, let’s examine our argument here. I agree that Marvin has progressed each year in his production. I am not doubting that Sekou witnessed Marvin hit the 3 effortlessly in the scrimmage. I’m glad he’s been working on this part of his game. I also agree that Bibby needs to be more of a facilitator. In fact, you might go back a couple blogs where I said exactly that in response to the assertion by Sam that he will push for the all-star game. I even said if all goes well, he should average 8-10 dimes. Seriously, look it up (if you feel like it that is).

Here’s where we’re disagreeing. Sekou specifically said that Marvin hit a couple of three pointers. Number one, that’s in scrimmage against his teammates, not against opponents in an NBA game. This is a new thing for Marvin, and I don’t expect him to become a consistent three point threat over night. I think that’s an unfair expectation.

Speaking of unfair….you think Marvin is the second-best shooter on this team? We don’t even have to go to stats for me to say on a good day he is third best. That’s right. You CANNOT tell me Marvin is a better shooter than either Bibby or JJ. No freakin’ way, so that makes him third at best. And is he really a better shooter than Evans? I don’t think so. Not yet, but in time he will be. Even then, consider this: he has a career shooting percentage of 44.8%, which oddly enough is nearly identical to Josh Smith’s.

Furthermore, Marvin has taken 108 three pointers…throughout his career. Evans took nearly twice that last year alone. And made 81 of them. Yep, that’s 39% for the year, and then he went over 40% in the playoffs. Are you telling me that after one summer of shooting the three in the gym that Marvin is better than that? I say again: I don’t think that’s a fair assessment. And I don’t think that’s the assessment Sekou or anybody else who is watching him play, is making. But what do I know?

I know I’m sounding like a Marvin hater, but I swear I’m not. And I ain’t living in the past, either. And I trust Sekou’s assessments as well. But did Sekou say that Marvin was suddenly a prime time scorer who is a legitimate, night-after-night 3 point threat? If he did, I missed it. We’re talking about a guy who’s main problem has been aggression. Sorry, but I don’t see him all of the sudden becoming something he never was before.

You say only time will tell. I agree, and I think it’s the amount of time that we don’t see eye to eye on. What happens if he goes out there and takes a few three point shots and doesn’t make them…and Woody tells him to “cut that out?” I’m just sayin’….

Anyway, it’s all good. I’ll drop it. We’re only going to continue thinking differently as it is. I’m just excited and anxious. Tell you what though. If starting on Monday, Marvin starts dropping bombs in games like he’s the U.S. Air Force, you got the braggin’ right and the first couple are on me when we see each other at a game. And I’m not being a smart-a* about it. I’ve been wrong more times than the weather-guessers….

By ray

October 3, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Lacsho, one more thing, and I promise I’ll give it a rest (I think..). When I said “role player” I meant that Marvin is the most “role player-like” of those who comprise the starting five. I don’t know really how else to say that other than he does not distinguish himself from the others as a guy who specializes in something the others don’t. Perhaps he will. I don’t know.

Ill-Logical, now that is something I have to agree with. Forget all the 20ppg scorer comments. A significantly improved Marvin on the defensive end will mean much more than folks think. The offense will be there, and it will get better. But scoring is not a problem for us, I don’t think. Defense has been. In which case, it’s time to stop laying down like we have in the past…

By Lacsho

October 3, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Ray

I hear you my brotha, I’ll get back at you tomorrow. I’m watching the new Chris Rock performance on HBO. Yo, you know you got me cracking up with the snaps. My man, you’re killing me…..

By doc

October 4, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

welcome still, maybe you can work the divide between being offensive er opinionated without being personal and never taking any of this personal.

heh heh

ray, the marvin hater. i just want him to drill a few no a lot of those threes. i hope he is following price around like my son’s new puppy follows him.

By doc

October 4, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

really key comment here; “I think he and Josh both would have to rank at the top in terms of the guys that have come back the most improved,” Horford said.unfortunately it is not inclusive of marvin but i cant wait to see the upgraded josh smith, could be nasty i mean fun.

By ray

October 4, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this

Lacsho, how was it? If I had known Rock was performing, I would have recorded it on my DVR…

Doc, you need a bigger spoon to stir that pot? Hee hee

By Ramon

October 4, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Doc, I noticed that statement also and loved it. The funny part about that statement is, the most improved over the summer just may be the man who made the comment (of course Horford wouldn’t nominate himself).

Because of the age and maturation, its quite easy to see that the most room for growth as a team is in the front court. So to say the three most athletic guys on the team each had a great summer, is huge.

The feeling I get about this season is, the guys seem to have a new developed killing instinct. I know they haven’t played a game yet, but you can tell it in the way they talk. And with the way Flip Mo Squad will bring energy (hopefully with Solomon), it will be hard for teams to get back into the game at the end of the 3rd quarter like always. That plays a huge factor when playing on the road.

I must say, I would still love the Hawks bring in a veteran ‘Goon’. The largest thing the Hawks front court will face is not dealing with opponents as athleticism, but it will be as far as respect. Respect plays better than defense ever will. Having opponents respect your front court sometimes help you avoid foul trouble.

Also, I think Flip is going to be our version of the Clippers’ Cassell, the first season they had him.

By richbrave

October 4, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

The WIZARDS are slowly growing out of the need to have ARENAS on the court. He is now acting like a coach, getting his team-mates to put in two hours of shooting practice before each session, and according to the pundits who follow POLLIN’S team, it is paying off. Maybe.

Again, as I have said, right now everything is sweetness and light. Lets see what happens on the hardwood when they play the HAWKS where they have some severe match-up problems.

I do have a sensability about their 1st pick however - JaVALE McGEE. I thing he’s gonna’ develop into a solid inside big….nothing to hang that on yet.

Just a hunch. Mainly because ANDRAY BLATCHE is displaying some sense of urgency inside. Maybe it’s the fact that ETAN THOMAS is back, and maybe its McGEE. We’ll see.

DEE BROWN seems to be providing some inspirations to the coaching staff. I am less affected by Mr. BROWN. In friday’s open sessions, he did not particularly impress in my eyes. Course he’s only a second year playa’. Maybe later in the season, I’ll develop some of the vision the coaches have now. Three points and two assists running with the second squad opposite DeSHAWN STEVENSON. And yet the second unit won by 13.

Which speaks volumes about the WIZARDS prospects to my mind. Solid not great. Again we’ll see. Promised some insights after taking a personal look-see. So here it is.

By ray

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

Ramon, I agree. Flip is probably going to become our Sam Cassell. Only much younger. Evans will be a help as well.

Lacsho, I read up on Micah Hart’s blog stuff on NBA.com (Hawks.com). Pretty good stuff, and the sound bytes were pretty helpful. We definitely picked up some good vets. Evans is going to help drive things on defense, where we really need it. Not that he won’t have an offensive impact, but the defensive accountability is a bigger concern to me right now. I don’t think our offense will have any problems unless we keep running JJ ISO, which there is no excuse for at this point.

RichBrave, hang in there bro’. McGee is a project, but I think he’ll be okay. Blatche has some talent and will be solid, if not better than that. Hope Etan gets back to full strength. I always liked him better than Haywood.

By ray

October 4, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

RichBrave, I’m giving ‘em hell on the Falcons blog (but they’re not responding much). Hee hee, but it’s so much fun. Idiots…

By Ramon

October 4, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

I would trade Speedy for Etan in a heart beat, and not look back.

By new jersey faithful

October 4, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Does it really matter what the 7-12 guys really do?? We all know Woody wont use them once the season starts!! He will kill the starters and use 2 maybe 3 bench guys…3 if we are lucky

By ant banks

October 4, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

ray, lachso, doc, ill-logical i feel yall on the marvin situation, but how do you all think that our top 5 and flip mo, zaza, solo will mathch up wit’ our 1st games

at Orlando

Philly

at N.O.

Toronto

at Okl

By Ken Strickland

October 4, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Food for thought. If Marvin becomes more aggressive and hits the 3 consistently, won’t that lessen the need for Bibby’s outside shooting? Wouldn’t the additions of Murray and Evans also lessen the need as well? With our newfound ability to put so many outside scorers on the floor at any given time, wouldn’t having a consistent penetrator like Acie, who plays serious DEF, be even more valuable?

RAY-concerning Solomon Jones. I remember being the only one agreeing with his decision to skip summer league and I got jumped on as a result. I understood his reasoning. He got no consideration or consistent mins from Woodson after playing in the last 2. All he got were excuses like, he needs to get stronger or he needs to gain more weight. Well, since the summer league path didn’t yield any favorable results, he decided to take a different path, and it seems to have paid off. He took the time to get both bigger and stronger.

Think about this. When was the last time the Atlanta Hawks started a season with: (1)an established, quality starting vet PG.

(2)the same starters from the previous yr.

(3)a talented, versatile, deep, vet laden bench.

(4)a team not dependent upon a rookie playing a major role.

(5)a team with no obvious, consistently exploitable weaknesses.

(6)a team that’s highly self motivated with a goal to make and advance in the playoffs.

(7)a core of young players that are at or near their mental, emotional and/or physical peak.

Since a chain is no stronger than it’s weakest link, we have to hope Woodson steps up. And RAY, don’t you dare stop railing on Woodson and leave me out here virtually alone with that burden.

By ray

October 4, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Ant Banks, no doubt the first handful of games are brutal. But not as brutal as they could be. As good as those teams are or could be, they won’t be as good right out of the gate as they will be close to the all-star break. Plus, it’s a great “here comes the ice cold water” test for our guys. We need to have the heat turned on us early. I don’t know how we’ll do, but I’m willing to bet there will be some indicators starting on Monday when we take on the Magic.

Ken, come on now. I already admitted to being wrong to Sam on that one. You gonna make me say it twice? LOL!

As for your food for thought: this is precisely what I was talking about a couple of blogs ago. And I don’t recall you being around to agree with me either, ya scoundrel! Heh, just kidding, but seriously, it was a largely ignored series of comments. The whole premise of this is the only reason why I disagreed with Sam on Bibby making the all-star team. But no more “ifs” on Marvin’s aggressiveness. The year to turn the corner on the aggressiveness is this year. If not, it ain’t gonna happen, I don’t think. We’ll see. Looking forward to it regardless.

One small thing, though: this core of young players is (in my own non-expert opinion) possibly near it’s physical peak, but not quite as close emotionally, and definitely not mentally. I don’t say this to down these guys at all. But think of the experiences they’ve NOT had, and you’ll see what I mean. Given a couple or better yet a few years in the playoffs and it will be completely different. What they got last year was a taste and a hunger. But they haven’t gottent to the nitty gritty. Not yet. But it’s coming. And it could very well be this year that it comes…

By damfkingdon

October 4, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I hope that Law can step it up so that we could possibly trade Bibby at the deadline and free up some cap space.

By Dan

October 4, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this

F*k Speedy Claxton and his hamstring. I wish that guy would just leave. He has done nothing but steal money from this organization since he has been here. Where ever he may be right now, I hope he is hurting.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 4, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

The sky is blue, water is wet, and Speedy Claxton stays injured. He is the Mike Hampton of the Hawks. In the words of one Kobe Bean Bryant, “Ship his azz out.”

By ray

October 4, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Good lord. Again? Wait…I’m not going to hate. Lord knows he didn’t want this to happen. In the interest of “moving on” I’ll say the silver lining (or perhaps silver beltway) is that this means less competition for Acie to get minutes, although I’d rather him earn it in stiffer competition.

On the flip side, there goes an asset. I know. I sound real cold about this. But I’m disappointed, and I don’t want to hate on a dude.

By Lacsho

October 4, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Ray The Chris Rock special was off the chain. If you have Comcast, they have the special listed under (HBO on demand). I like the live interviews on the Hawks.com website. Bottom line I’m addicted to the home team, and I can’t wait for next weeks open practice.

Banks I was worried at first with so many games on the road, but now that we have a strong veteran presence, it shouldn’t be a problem. As Ray stated in his previous post, Evans is a locked down defender. Solo is going to make some noise, and the starting five is stellar in my book. I think we cause match up problems for the majority teams in the NBA. Furthermore, I think everyone is going to have problems when the come to Phillips this year.

Ken I think your seven point assessment is on point. If Woody coaches his behind off, your going to have to come with a new argument. Can you imagine what this blog would be like if we were able to capture 50 wins? (Let me dream guys).

Dan

Wow I felt some heat from that post. With injuries on the back burner, we made need Mr. Claxton. Don’t get it twisted, Craig is on my sh*t list too. However, it seems like his injuries were legit. I think speedy should play one year for free though.

By ray

October 4, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Dan, believe me I feel your frustration. But we shouldn’t wish ill will like that. And injuries generally do hurt, ya know. I tore a quadricep one time doing one of those foolish “I’m still 20 and strong enough to do this” moves. Hurt like a mutha. I’m talkin’ couldn’t “get in the mood” kinda hurt…tried that one time (against doctor’s orders) and learned right quick it wasn’t going to happen anytime soon. Heh….

Lacsho, thanks for lookin’ out. I do have Comcast, and I’ll be hittin’ that On Demand button here shortly. You gotta drop the knowledge on the open practice. If I was local, I’d be gettin’ geeked right next to you!

By ant banks

October 4, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this

KEN your points are dead on. we ain’t been able to start the season off like this since the ’90s.

lacsho ray i feel the excitement from this blog, but if we start off 0-5 or 1-4 that will suck the life outta this blog and the hawks and i think that everyone will be like here we go again, then ken and poop will be screamin’ for woody’s head along with the rest of atl…

By ant banks

October 4, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this

jus’ read the story about speedy. dam, dude musta been horrible in his previous life, but atleast he is cold gettin’ paid!!

i want to commend woody. for the past 3 yrs, all that he has said in the press is positive things like…”he has got to get better.” or “we will have to see how his body responds” woody has got to be highly irritated with this even tho it ain’t speedy’s fault

By Ramon

October 4, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this

I am curious, why does every one want to think about freeing up cap space? I mean if the team is winning, its proven that the franchise will make money ( way more than enough to pay the luxury tax). This team is good enough to be in the conference finals next season at least (with maturation). I know there are many holes to business, but who would mind paying 10 mil to make 34 mil?

By TheAntiMe

October 4, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

Two words on the Hawks’ Speedy Claxton that will be painfully clear to Braves fans:

Can you say, “Mike Hampton”?

By Ken Strickland

October 4, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

RAY-I’ve been bloging on a few political sites. Posting on all but 1 has virtually shut down because I brought up some serious issues McCain/Palin fanatics couldn’t deal with. Three delusional, scripture quoting religious zealots took over the last one and I let them have it. It turned into a religious version of a Falcons blog.

If Woodson utilizes his bench the way he should, our key players won’t be fatigued at crunch time and we won’t lose leads, or gms like we did last yr. Also, with the veteran firepower and versatility on our bench, we’ll be better able to come from behind as well as win more close gms.

The additions of Murray, Evans and Morris makes us bigger & stronger on OFF/DEF, both inside & outside, more experienced, versatile and deeper. Add the individual improvement of our returning players and we have a combination that can play consistently with any NBA team, if properly coached and properly utilized(run, run, run). I honestly believe the only people more excited about this team than we are right now are the players themselves. I CAN’T WAIT!!!!!!!

By cp

October 4, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

I would love to ship his azz out Najeh but who in the world would want his azz. We would be lucky to get some gatorade and nba socks for Speedy at this point.

At the end of the day I have confidence in the players but it will all depend on if Woody has progressed as a coach.

By Dan

October 4, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Lascho & ray

I have zero love for Speedy, if you couldn’t tell. I will go to my grave believing that he knew his knee was hurt when he signed that huge contract a few years ago. He pulled a big one over on the Hawks.

By Clyde

October 4, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Speedy Claxton has to be the worst free agent signing in Atlanta Hawk history. We passed on Chris Paul (a future hall of famer) to get him and we paid him 6 million a year. And what did we get out of it? Not a dam thang.

Roll Tide!!!!

By Hoorah!

October 4, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

You can’t pass over someone in a draft to get Speedy Claxton, since Claxton wasn’t in the draft.

We all know that we didn’t get Paul. Get over it. It’s really not necessary. We just need to work with what we’ve got and hope we get better.

By Lacsho

October 4, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Man I just watch Kimbo Slice get knocked out in 20 seconds, and he had the nerve to say “we’re still going to the after party” my wife and myself just looked at each other(facial expression saying you got to be kiddin me) Damn Damn Damn this guy looked like a idiot. After party, hmmm you need to after party in the gym and train…. I digress…..

Back to the hawks

Dan I knew the reasons for your resentment and to be completely honest, I felt the same way. That’s why I said Speedy should play a year for free. I have no rebuttal for your statement.

Ray

You make a valid point about injuries; however, I still have my doubts about speedy.

Banks

I can’t see this team going out like that. Our team is very hungry, and we have a lot to prove. The Hawks will exceed expectations.

Clyde

We got off to a rough start a couple of years ago, but I will give you props about Bama.

13 more wins put us at 50 from last year. Did the hawks make the necessary acquisitions to take us deep in the playoffs? I say yes, it’s a damn shame we don’t have chill that would be the monkey wrench. Moreover, I see chill as trade bait…..Dude’s going to be salty when we go deep into the playoffs this year……

By Ariose

October 5, 2008 2:53 AM | Link to this

DIRT….

…..it’s not looking good for Salim guys. He’s been sidelined with a strained groin since the first day of camp and hasn’t platyed since….the spurs have the day off tomorrow so hopefully he can go on monday. Pop said it’s not favorable (as far as him making the squad) if he doesn’t get health soon…….i’m prayin’ for the guy.

~SalimFan Sir Links A Lot

By HB Ando

October 5, 2008 3:42 AM | Link to this

Jeesh, I think that the AJC is missing a serious corporate sponsorship opportunity, by not tying the collective frenzy of this current blogs’ general voice, to something along the lines of RedBull.

There’s optimism, and then there’s the essential compendium of projected, aggregate optimal performance, by each and every member of this current Hawks’ roster, with, in most instances, a dismissal of various limiting factors such as historic coaching decisions, a rudimentary refusal to reconcile the basic math of available minutes (with apologies to Joe, and a few others, who actually took a shot at subjective projections of the breakdown of minutes, for plausible rotations), and what I believe continues to be an ongoing response to my opinion that each projected rotational variation comes with some fairly specific flaws, offensively, or defensively, depending on which five you put on the floor, at any given time.

The idea that both Josh and Al will, short of a limiting injury to either or both, average only 32 minutes each, is, in my opinion, highly conservative, given Woody’s history of overusing his starters, combined with the significant drop off in talent, of the second team.

A drastic change in Woody’s use of the second team will require that our primary five would consistently open up double-digit leads, allowing him to go to his bench early and often. That’s a major inferential leap for a team that won 37 games last year.

And the backcourt logjam is even more concerning. Where does Flip get minutes, with 3 PG’s vying for time, and JJ eating up 40+minutes, AND Evans looking to pick up his scraps?

Projections of both, or either, of Solo AND Morris emerging as legitimate contributors is best case scenario.

A better collection of individual talent, than in recent years, for sure. But a clearly well-balanced, projected rotation, is still hard to coherently mesh.

And I’m still absolutely a non-believer that the ASG will maintain the mid-$60 million payroll that this roster requires, especially when one combines their track record for frugality with a rapidly disintegrating economy (‘cause we all know that buying tickets to Hawks games has to be one of the first things folks eliminate as far as discretionary spending).

Since Mr. Hollinger has created a baseline of pessimism, with his 31-win projection, I don’t have to feel like the villian when I stick to a projection of no better than 10th in the East, with a variable win total, impacted by just how soon Bibby will be jettisoned.

But hey, like every pre-season, I love the optimism, hopeless as it is……….

By ray

October 5, 2008 7:06 AM | Link to this

Dan and Lacsho,

I’m trying so hard not to hate. But you’re both making it difficult! LOL! Seriously, I had a blistering reply to the news of another Speedy injury. I’m really trying not to attack the guy. But he is without a doubt the worst free agent acquisition we made. At least Lo Wright was able to play when asked to.

As for Speedy knowing he was injured as badly as he was before he signed the contract…Isn’t it on the ORGANIZATION to have their doctors thoroughly check a player out before signing him? That’s who I throw the most blame on, and I don’t know how much Speedy knew. Maybe he did, maybe he didn’t. Couldn’t say. And don’t want to, because what I’m thinking is so venomous….

Ando, you know Hollinger got his ideas from you. Admit it. Heh….and I knew you’d wait until the preseason optimism was about to reach a fever pitch to come in with your usual contribution…heh heh. I was just sitting back here thinking “wait for it…wait for it…wait….there it is…”

Heh heh heh.

By ray

October 5, 2008 7:13 AM | Link to this

Lacsho,

Kimbo Slice is a good brawler, but no match for some of the “technicians” you meet in the octagon. None of these guys are scared and most have learned how to take some hard hits (or avoid them altogether). I don’t think anybody questions his ability to strike hard, but Kimbo’s ground game is where he usually gets in trouble. Easy to get him into submission holds…which if you think about it, is where real fighting often takes place. Almost nobody stands up and just slugs it out in real fights. By the way, who kicked his a$$ anyway?

By Lacsho

October 5, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Ray

He was knocked out by an unknown replacement. As far as Speedy’s concern, I didn’t know he was injured again. I have no love for this guy. When he gets healthy, I say ship his Azz out ASAP!!!! We need to get him off the books… Of course once he leaves, he’ll make a miraculous recovery, and resurrect his fledging career with another team….

Mr. Espn I knew the dark cloud was hovering; I knew it was a matter of time before the hatorade hit the blog (lol)… I’m not on that redbull. I take a pack of multivitamins daily. Thus I sustain my energy levels without needing a quick fix to get me going. This allows me to consistently perform at a higher level creating a maximum output of optimism that drowns out the pessimistic energy created by the dark force. I still got $50.00 on my Hawks making the playoffs.

By ray

October 5, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Lacsho, I don’t either really. I was hoping he stayed healthy enough to trade because I don’t see a place for him (and his salary) when we have Bibby as the present, Law hopefully as the future, and Murray as the fix if either of the aforementioned has problems. Now, we’re guaranteed not to get $hit for him in a trade.

Like I said earlier….we lost an asset for the moment.

As for noting that Woodson seems calm and cool about the whole thing: Woody knows he has a healthy Bibby, Law, and Murray…he ain’t sweatin’ Speedy one damn bit.

By Lacsho

October 5, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Ray You should watch the SNL version of the Vice President debate. SNL had me on the floor crying…

By jhan

October 5, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

How come everyone sings the praises of Portland & all the fine pieces they’ve drafted over the last few years? Aren’t they going to have a hard time getting all their players on the court?

Maybe they should trade their good bench players for lousy bench players so their starters have more playing time.

By ray

October 5, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Jhan, what are you talking about?

Actually, all the fine pieces they drafted are for a reason: assets. You know their GM is going to keep the guys he thinks are the future of the team and use the rest of the talented youngsters to acquire the services of the right vets needed to fit the equation. Oh there’s a plan alright. I don’t think they would let their good young players get away for nothing….

By Blast

October 5, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Speedy, Speedy, Speedy. Same ole Speedy.

Screw Hollinger. He and his ESPN cronies have been making wrong predictions for years, going back to when Detroit whupped the Lakers for the Championship in 2004. After Fisher’s miracle shot in the final seconds of game 5 against the Spurs and Lakers went on to win game 6 and advance to the finals, ESPN folks believed it was over. LA would win another title, the only question they asked was how many games would it take?

I thought differently. I saw a well coached, well disciplined Pistons team that played together, with 4-5 big men to throw at Shak. Game 1 in Staples proved it. In that trilling game, the Pistons schooled LA in every facet of the game and routed them on their home court.

I was shocked when Hollinger, Steven A Smith, Marc Stein et al refused to take Detroit seriously, refused to give them credit, making all sorts of excuses for LA. LA would rebound to win 4 games in a row, blah, blah, blah. I remember thinking they were out of their collective minds. Did they see the same game I did? Were they so much on the LA bandwagon that they could not pull their heads out of their azzes? After game 1, I knew the Pistons had the campionship won. In fact, I thought they were going to sweep the series.

And they almost did, too. LA managed to scrape out a close overtime win, helped immensely by the refs, and the pundits were happy. All was right with the world again. Detroit might win one game at home, they said, but LA would win two and return to finish off the Pistons in Staples.

I remember Scoffing at the ESPN crew. If it took overtime, a close game and help from the refs for a desperate Laker team to win game 2, then LA was in deep trouble. Of course we all know what happened. Detroit swept the 3 game home series to win their 3rd championship. It was that loss that resulted in the break-up of the O’Neal/Kobe tandem.

I wrote this novel to remind folks that the so called tv analysts can be dead wrong. Same as they were wrong about the Hawks making the playoffs last year, same as they were wrong in predicting a sweep versus Boston, same as they are wrong in ranking the Hawks 10 in the East this year. How many Hawks regular season games did Hollinger see last season? Very few, I’m sure. I saw all of them, same as I have been doing for years, so let them keep discounting us as they’ve done for years. Makes it easier for us to creep up on other teams. The Atlanta HAwks are one of the most fun teams to watch in the NBA, and I stand by that. This year they got even better, and we all can’t wait for the season to start.

GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ray

October 5, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Man, if you told me a couple months back that the Falcons would be 3-2 right now, I’d say you were crazy….but here we sit.

Go Falcons!

Back to the Hawks:

Can’t wait for tomorrow’s preseason game against Orlando…

By ant banks

October 5, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

blast who was the assistant coach on that detroit team that you are talkin’ about? maybe some of that will rub off on us this yr.

the nba has released it report on donaghy and the league. i swear that the league has ulterior motives. when garnett pushed a referee and hit zaza, his azz was supposed to be suspended for game 5 and we would have that one without him on the floor. the league didn’t want the hawks to knock of the celts.

By Blast

October 5, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

art banks I believe that assistant coach was one Mike Woodson…………

And of course the league would never want the lowly Hawks to knock off the mighty Celtics. That would have thrown a wrench in their plans for a Celtic/Lakers matchup. The Commish has manipulated the league, the game for years, man.

By Dan

October 5, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

ray

You should let out all your feelings on Speedy. It might make you feel better.

I agree the organization shares some of the blame on signing Speedy, bad knee and all. The Hawks are my team, however. I spend the money on season tixs, buy the shirts, watch the road games on TV, and read the articles. So, when some arshole like Speedy screws them over so badly, I make that person the target for my frustrations.

Speedy should be run out of this town on a rail.

By Samuel

October 5, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Guys,

I know I am slack this year in Marketing our Fantasy league but it’s on like popcone. So far we got 9 playaz in. We have 3 slots available. Go to Yahoo.com, click on sports, then fantasy basketball. Sign up for Sekous’s Bloggers, ID# 44442.

The Draft in Sunday, Oct. 26th at 10:00am EST. If you can’t be there live, make sure you pre-rank your players so that the computer can pick the ones you want.

All the Big Boys are in: Me, Ando,Stro,Manny T, and Mavid G. Last year Bushwackers took the ring. I want my title back. No excuses. I don’t make any. I got my a$$ kicked last year. It won’t happen again.

Ray, Cuz. We’d love to have you. If you aint scared.

By jhan

October 5, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

I’m back to defend my title, Samuel.

Good to read Woodson talk about playing Solo this season. If he’s impressed Woody that means something.

By Najeh Davenpoop

October 5, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

Samuel, if you have extra spots left you think you could hook me up with the password? Email me here

By blue hawk

October 5, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

Samuel

League ID is 44442?

What’s the password?

By blue hawk

October 5, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Sam,

me too…

password please

By richbrave

October 5, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

So what was the HAWKS - MAGIC score.?

By HB Ando

October 6, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

Blast, you sound like a caricature of the grumpy old grandfather, rambling about how, when you were a kid, you had to walk 10 miles through snow to get to school every day.

I’ve never, ever, rested my position on the opinions of the media. To correct you, Hollinger predicted the Hawks would end up 13th, in the East, not 10th.

But I’ve been saying they wouldn’t crack the top-ten, in the East, for months.

So you liked the Pistons a few years back. Woo hoo!

I picked the Heat, preseason, when no one else did, right here on this blog, when they won the title a couple of years ago. Same year I predicted the Hawks would win 26 games (the exact number they won).

Didn’t have anything to do with what the talking heads thought.

Did you post that the Patriots were going to lose last year? Wrong happens every year. If it didn’t, there wouldn’t be a booming industry called sports book.

Just because folks in the media have been wrong, in the past, doesn’t mean they’re never right. And it doesn’t invalidate independent opinions that the Hawks will fail to make the playoffs.

You “wrote this novel”, but failed to address a single, specific critical concern regarding the limitations of this team.

Rambling about the Pistons, beating the Lakers, years ago, has zero to do with the challenges this seasons’ Hawks team faces: an improved East, a shaky front office/ownership, a lingering question mark for a head coach, the realistic possibility that Bibby will be traded before the deadline, as well as the very specific questions I’ve outlined regarding the variable flaws, either on offense or defense, of each plausible rotation the team can put on the floor at any time.

Sure, prognosticators get it wrong. But the fact that they do doesn’t mean the Hawks will be a playoff team. Just like the fact that there have been trends of warm weather, during the history of this planet, doesn’t mean we’re not experiencing global warming.

Misdirection won’t change the outcome for this Hawks team.

By Samuel

October 6, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

My bad.password: hawks

By MannyT

October 6, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Ando I think you missed the Ariose DIRT link. We are supposed to be as optimistic as a Joel Osteen sermon before the season starts. You are still counterprogramming ;-)

In the meantime, for all you Speedy haters, I’ll step up once again and say, he had value when healthy. If you don’t have a big hulking, clog the lane center, you like to have a PG who can provide on ball pressure and disrupt the offense. Imagine for a moment if we need stops and you can (now) roll out Speedy, JJ, Mo, Josh, & Solo. That should be a strong defensive unit.

The Mike Hampton comparisons are reasonable, but Speedy was expected to be healthy when he was signed. Because there are 2 yrs left on the contract, his value is to be here and healthy. His trade value might be a 3rd round pick ;-)

Samuel,jhan I’ve got one word for you regarding fantasy hoops…VENGAAAAANCE! I will be ready for the rematch.

It all starts tonight! I wonder if it will be on the radio, internet, short wave, or a quixstar communication appliance?

BWAF

By MannyT

October 6, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

new blog up

By Blast

October 6, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

Ando, you work for the media? I thought we are trying to be optimistic here. If anybody sounds like a grumpy old grandpa, that person is you. Sure you are a real Hawks Fan? I know you’ve been the most pessimistic blogger on this site yet. The Hawks won’t crack the top ten in the East this year? I would like to take a bet on that with you.

“I failed to address a single, specific, critical concern regarding the limitations of this team”? I believe that’s what you fellows have been doing on this blog all summer long, and frankly, it’s gotten boring. And I believe every angle has already been hashed over. Why postulate about something that I cannot directly influence? I cannot change the Hawks management. I cannot fire Mike Woodson. I cannot trade Bibby even though I wouldn’t, and I’ll also bet Bibby will still be here come trade deadline unless the Hawks tank it up. So Mr Ando, eat some chill pill, take a deep breath, get off the media bandwagon, and lets just enjoy the upcoming season, huh?

The Hawks end up 10th or 13th in the East. What would it matter? They still won’t make the playoffs if that happens. Real fans don’t breath doom and gloom, they just hope and root for their teams through thick and thin. This is the best squad the Hawks have had for years, and you’re still complaining? Come on, man!