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DEL.ICIO.USShowtime
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
HAWKSVILLE - For once Hawks coach Mike Woodson and I are in total agreement. But for all the wrong reasons.
Tonight’s preseason opener against Orlando is huge for Woodson. He wants to see his team go at the defending Southeast Division champions (a team they owned last season, for the most part) and see his starters pushed to the limit so he can see just how truly competitive they will be with the lights on.
Tonight’s preseason opener against Orlando is huge for me, too. I want to see how the new guys blend in with the old guys and see if the improvements made by guys like Solomon Jones and others translate when the opposition is wearing a different name across their chests (plus, it’s always good to get an early look at the competition and how their new parts fit as well).
Woodson wants to win at all costs during the preseason. I could care less about who wins and loses and remain much more concerned with the minutiae, which becomes tougher and tougher to read with rapid-fire, three hour practices during the first week of training camp.
Nothing seemed to change from the first scrimmage of training camp to the last, on Saturday (there was no real scrimmage action Sunday). The guys who stood out the first day continued to shine. Now we want to see if that needle moves or skips with the Magic staring back at the Hawks.
Again, the winning and losing during the preseason is basically a non-issue (for me). I think Woodson is in the camp that believes preseason wins help energize the base, and when you’ve struggled the way the Hawks have in the past there may be some truth to and need for that.
But my needs are a bit more pedestrian.
I want to see if Al Horford and Josh Smith can find a way to frustrate the Magic big men the way they were able to frustrate Boston’s big men at times during that playoff series.
I want to see if Othello Hunter (a real find in an era when front office types swear there aren’t any hidden surprises during the player procurement process) can be as active and crafty around the basket against the Magic as he has been against the Hawks’ first team.
I want to see if Acie Law IV feels empowered enough to assume control of the floor like everyone knows he will have to in order to be Mike Bibby’s understudy or if he defers to his veteran teammates on the second unit (which he seemed to do during scrimmages last week).
And so forth and so on.
Most important, though, is I want to see if the Hawks’ bench can come together quickly enough to really give this team the extra edge it’s going to need to compete for a playoff spot this season.
That another place where Woodson and I are in total agreement.
“I want them to have a nastiness about them,” Woodson said of the bench, “that you don’t lose anything when they’re in the game. That ‘when coach puts me in the game the first unit doesn’t lose anything with the second group on the floor.’ I need them feeling good about playing that role.”
Despite suggestions from the punditry to the contrary, Woodson thinks the bench crews of his four previous teams have performed in that fashion.
“They always felt good about themselves when they came into the game and they always seemed to have a little edge to them,” Woodson said. “That’s how this group has to be with all these guys, Mo and Flip, Zaza and Acie and Solomon and Mario, if he’s a part of it. They’ve got to have a nasty edge, to where if the first unit has it going or even if they don’t, they don’t hurt the flow coming in. Their job is to maintain or take it up to another level.”
That’s going to require regular minutes for not just a couple of those guys, as has been the case in the past, but for all of them.
Woodson has admitted that he has to expand his bench if the Hawks are interested, as they profess, in taking the next step up the Eastern Conference food chain.
Tonight, we’ll get our first chance to see if that (and everything else talked about above) takes place.
SAY IT AIN’T SO SPEED-O: When I ducked onto the practice court Saturday and saw Speedy Claxton on the sideline without his playing shoes on I knew something was up.
At first I was told he “tweaked” his hamstring, I didn’t think it was that big of a deal. After being informed later that he had indeed pulled it, I realize just how tenuous his situation must be.
For a player scrapping and clawing to regain his footing in the NBA, Claxton seems to have the worst luck. You start to wonder if his body is going to continue to betray him at every turn - which certainly seems to be the case thus far.
“I hate it for Speedy,” Marvin Williams said. “I know what it’s like to have to fight back from an injury having broken my hand a couple years ago during camp. People don’t realize how deflating it is to be knocked down like that. But we’ve all got his back. We need him to get healthy and be ready to go, because you never know what’s going to happen during the course of a season. We’re going to need every man on this roster to reach our goals.”
BEST CAMP YET?: To a man the Hawks insist this is the best training camp they’ve had under Woodson.
There’s only one problem, Josh Smith is the only player on the roster to have participated in all five. And while he agrees that the competition and tenor of camp is as good as it’s been since he was drafted, he’s hesitant to knock any of his former teammates.
But he is willing to characterize this group of players as the best “fit” he’s seen during his time with the Hawks.
“Everything works with this group,” he said. “From the starters to the bench to the way we’re trying to play to the atmosphere and attitude during camp. It all makes sense. There is still a lot of work to be done, obviously, and just because it looks good on paper and during the first few days of camp doesn’t mean everything works out in our favor in the end. Nobody can predict how things will end up. I just know that it feels right from the start, and I figure that’s half the battle. The rest is up to us, and I mean the entire organization. We have to finish the deal.”
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Comments
By Clyde
October 6, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
I want to see if Woodson has drawn up some new plays during the offseason.
Roll Tide!!!!
By ha ha
October 6, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
first !
By Melvin
October 6, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this
Sekou, I agree with you. I could care less about a win in preseason. I just hope Woody don’t play the starters 30+ mins like he did last preseason. A win would be nice but I rather see all the guys getting some PT so we can determine our rotation….
By Ernest
October 6, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
I was hoping to hear Morris’s name more but perhaps it is still early. While I’m excited to hear about the progression Solomon Jones has made, I still like the idea of a real ‘big body’ down low to bang and clog the lane. Can anyone give any updates on his progression?
By ATL Rattler
October 6, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
Oh, you mean Craig Claxton? Right, don’t think I know a Speedy. I’m very familiar with the intern assistant coach Craig though. BOY, he really gets paid as an assistant coach.
The national writers (ESPN) are really crapping on Acie. I think if he can stay away from Claxton, be aggressive, & be on the court he’ll make some folks eat crow.
By MsDee
October 6, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Well, I cant hate on the way Mike Woodson is looking at having a “winning attitude” with the players and all cause we are not a Spurs/Lakers type of team that is used to winning on a regular basis. All Woodson is saying is stay focus on winning cause losing is contagious. Yeah, this maybe only be preseason but you still want to win. Now I’m not saying play your staters to death cause I really cant see Woodson getting away with that for long if Rick Sund will have anything to do with it. He bought in some really great additions to the team not to just sit on the bench..and that goes for Acie too cause I think Sund likes Acie. I just think Mike Woodson wants EVERYONE playing hard..that’s his starters, 2nd & 3rd string guys and I see nothing wrong with that!! We went 7-1 last preseason and made it to the playoffs. Lets now go 8-0 and make it to the next round. GO HAWKS!!
By MannyT
October 6, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
AAAAAAAggggghhhh!
Sekou You nailed it, and Woody, as usual, has a different view. Even with the experience that is on the team, Coach W needs to use this month to figure out how to mix and match his parts. I don’t care if they win or lose the Fake 8 title!
Some Fake 8 things to work out:
Let’s see how disruptive his small line up can be (Josh at the 5?).
Let’s learn how big he can go (Marvin at the 2?)
Can he make the BK model work (everyone that plays has to be about 6-7 to 6-9?)
Does he have a lockdown defensive line ups (for the end of a game when up by 1/2/3?)
Does he have multiple end of game, down by 1/2/3 line ups?
Does he have some new wrinkles to go in that 6 letter play book that is kept on a match stick? ISO JOE
Is the roster really set or is there competition for the last few slots?
Just win baby is for the real games, now is the time for the pimps advice to his staff…don’t get hurt, keep moving, it’s ok to fake it, and get me my money!
That last one is because I believe all the preseason games should be played in non-NBA towns where they will gladly pay for the games. Is it really a draw for me to see half a game with guys that will be in Europe or the D-League by Christmas?
BWAF
By Astro Joe
October 6, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this
Anyone know if there is a way to listen to the game tonight? Not only am I interested in everything already mentioned, I am also curious about the Magic’s progress. Is Battie healthy and will he be the defender/banger that Howard needs beside him? Have they addressed their SG problem? Can Jameer get better? That team has a lot of pieces but they are still missing some critical parts of a true contender.
By ant banks
October 6, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
preseason wins don’t matta!! at all!!! it is just a money grab for the owners and “practice” for the players. I would rather go 0-7 during preseason and go deep into the playoffs.
By Ben
October 6, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Well, it’s not like this team starts seasons well, so how does preseason winning translate?
By Ryder
October 6, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
So I take it that means Woodson is going to play the starters for 40+ minutes during the preseason if he’s still trying to use the old Rat Riley method of “play 7, trust 6” mantra.
Great, just great. I’ve never heard of a team hitting the preseason wall, but thanks to Woodson the Hawks will end up doing just that.
I understand wanting to develop a winning attitude regardless of preseason, regular season, or postseason, but I just hope Woodson will be smart enough to realize he actually has a bench he can use as well.
If healthy I believe that Murray and Evans will bring more to the table than what Childress could ever do coming off the bench.
By jhan
October 6, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this
ray - on the previous blog I was trying to make sense of other’s view that we have too many pieces that need playing time. Therefore we won’t be successful.
I’ve always been of the opinion that the more quality players the better. If the starters know the back-ups can come in & produce they will play harder & smarter. Nobody want’s to be pushed to the bench.
Everyone can agree that our starters played too many minutes last year. Now that we have some legit back-ups people see that as a negative.
Maybe I’m an idiot, but I can’t follow that logic.
By Bertie
October 6, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
Astro Joe, check out NBA.COM, open a free account and listen to the games for free.
By Traceman
October 6, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this
Let’s get it started baby! I am definitely ready to get this show on the road.
There are a lot of things I want to see (including the things that Sekou stated above) but the three things I want to see most are as follows:
1) Is Marvin ready to step up and be consistently productive from the SF spot. Last year, we had Chillz as the safety valve when Marv was not being aggressive enough. Well Chillz is no longer here and it’s all about you Marv. Do your thing!
2 Which big man (or big men) is ready to come in and be CONSISTENTLY productive when called upon? Al and Smoove are going to be a nightmare for teams up front at times but there will also be times when the sheer size of our opponents’ front court will be a problem. When that happens, who between Zaza, Solo and Morris will Woody be able to count on to go in and bang with the Howards, Ilgauskases and Haywoods of the world? I have no doubt that Big Al will hold his own against all of those guys but if he only has to do it for 30 minutes versus 40 minutes, he will likely be much more effective down the stretch. I hope that at least ONE of those guys steps up but two would obviously be even better.
3) Who wins the backup PG battle? With Speedy going down, the door is wide open for Acie but he had better step up and take charge of that 2nd unit or Flip will be the primary back up at PG. We already know that Woody is not going to play any more than 9 guys (probably only 8) on a regular basis so if Acie stumbles early, I look for Woody to go with Flip/Mo/Zaza as his primary BUs with Solo and Acie getting spot minutes based on situations. Acie can change that with a good preseason (as can Solo) but he had better show what he can do early or he may find Flip with a stranglehold on the backup PG position.
By DAP01
October 6, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
Is it me or do any of you find Woodson’s attitude about training camp distrubing?
He want’s to play the starters major minutes. It’s preseason.
Play many players. We have a deeper team with many more options.
I also hope that Woodson has drawn up another play. That way we will have 2 offensive plays.
By Dan
October 6, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this
Sekou
Awesome stuff! Your blogs have been great lately!
Most excited I have ever been for a preseason game.
With the starters being the same as last year, I don’t see why they need to log heavy preseaon minutes. We know what they can do. I think Acie and Hunter are the ones that need the most playing time. We all know Acie’s story and, if Sekou is right, Hunter may be a steal. I guess Morris can be thrown onto that list to.
The other new guys—Flip & Evens—we know they can fill their roles. They are vets and will play the game the right way.
By jhan
October 6, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
I don’t care which people step-up off the bench, as long as it happens.
By cp
October 6, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
Look I feel bad that Craig is hurt again but im over the guy at this point. When he is actually healthy and ready to help this team then I guess I will want to hear any news on him.
I know Woodson wants to win in the preseason but its no reason to play the starters heavy minutes. Sounds like he is in midseason form already. Let those bench guys get out there and get some minutes so you can figure out who will be the main guys coming off the bench this season. I hope to also see more than 2 offensive plays called.
Is there any way to watch the preseason games? I know they showed the summer league but I have no idea if preseason is shown on NBA TV.
By Astro Joe
October 6, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Bertie, thanks!
By MsDee
October 6, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Did I mis-read anything or something? Woodson never said he will play his starters to death just to win in preseason. He said he wants his players to take every game, weither preseason or regular season, seriously with a winning mentality. The goal in life is to win/strive to win. Never said kill yourself in the process. If Woodson went into preseason with the attitude of “lets just take these preseason games for granted without trying to build chemistry with our new guys, not hustling for balls, not playing tough defense, not trying to gain control of the game early so that our 3rd string guys can build confidence as well..etc” You guys would hate on Woodson that way also..Don’t read too much in his “winning games” attitute. Take it as a motivational boost for his players to work hard at all times!!
By reese
October 6, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Glad that the season is starting backup. The mindset that Woodson should be establishing is that the team can win and that includes incorporating his bench players.
Things that I would like to see: 1)Has Marvin Williams improved his defense. Will he rotate on defense to cover and stop another players man. 2)Can Solomon Jones and Randolph Morris play well together on the floor. 3)Can AC Law run the point. 4)Can Othello Hunter translate his solid summer league performance with the big boys.
Things that I don’t care to see: 1)Anything to do with Speedy Claxton 2)Anything to do with Zaza pachulia. He’s been here for 4 years and I think that we know what he brings. No Defense rotation, poor defensive rebounding, no shot blocking or shot altering and sporadic offensive that usually yields less than 10 points. 3)The starters playing more than 30 minutes. Additionally, some of those minutes need to be mixed with key bench players.
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
When Woody said, “if he’s a part of it”, was he talking about Mario? Is he on the brink of not making the team? Somebody is going to have to take CRAIG’S spot. Already hurt? Give me a break. It’s all over Speedy. Retire and buy an island or something with all that FREE money.
By ILL-Logical
October 6, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
I tuned out when SS reported that the starting line up was set in stone.
How is a sub .500 record NOT a cry for change; how is a first round play off exit where the margin of defeat averaged 20 points per game; and how is the consensus opinion of almost every NBA pundit not worth anything regarding change?
Come on people, being a fan is one thing but blindly following this nonsense is crazy. The playoff appeareance was more about what the Wizards didn’t do than what the Hawks did. Thankful we made it:yes. But not filling the need at the 5 when there were better options than a back up to a back up; not impressed.
By femhawkfan
October 6, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this
and Mario, if he’s a part of it. Did anyone else notice that part of Woodson’s quote? The way I read it, things may not look so good for Mario to make the team. I thought he had a good chance. I guess not. However, I am pulling for the kid.
By The Truth
October 6, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
I agree will Sekou on Hawks preseason mission. However, his assessment of Woody’s preseason game plan is based on his comments. Woody could be playing mind games with his players to motive them. It would be “bone-headed” of him to over-work his starters (just for the sake of winning a preseason game) and not evaluate his new and improved players.
We will have to wait and see and get the facts before we fans go off on him. Our worst nightmare would be if a key player gets injured in the process while Woody showboats for personal reason.
By kirknga
October 6, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Kudos to Woodson for taking a look at the schedule and understanding that the Hawks must come out strong and that he might as well instill that tenacity in training camp.
As mentioned earlier, it is not as if this a veteran team that we know will be there come playoff time. Woodson also realizes that he’s on a short leash and that if they fall behind in the standings he could be the first to go.
The coaching staff should already have an idea of what the rotation is going to be, at least initially. There really should be no great mysteries to solve on this team.
I would like to see Speedy in the mix, but his absence is more of an opportunity for Acie who I believe will not out compete Bibby any time soon.
Insist on a high level of play from the outset, get in playing shape, and come out of camp with key people healthy. There really isn’t much else if the goal is to win.
By A Thinking Fan
October 6, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
The prove is in the pudding…
By Gilley
October 6, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
By femhawkfan
October 6, 2008 2:16 PM
and Mario, if he’s a part of it. Did anyone else notice that part of Woodson’s quote? The way I read it, things may not look so good for Mario to make the team. I thought he had a good chance. I guess not. However, I am pulling for the kid.
Well Woody was simply being realistic. The chances of him making the team are not as high as you think. However, I am rooting for him as well and know that if he became consistent at one area of offense, i.e. ball handling, running the point, or slashing and hitting free throws, he could be a nice back up for a team. But his defense is superb. Even better than Royal Ivey who was a good defender but overlooked. I am glad he along with a few other former players came to watch the hawks in the playoffs. Its like that camaraderie is still there with the young players who were there with Josh Smith and a few others.
I know Acie can be effective but I would like him to look for his offense more and take open jumpers. He can be streaky and hit a few buzzer beaters in the pros, which he did a lot of in college.
By Sekou K. Smith
October 6, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
I don’t think either one of us is right or wrong. We just have different approaches. Everything written isn’t meant as an indictment of someone else.
And I think Woody has a point about wanting to make sure his vets (there are enough of them here finally to use that word without a wink) set the tone for everyone else. He didn’t say he was going to run these guys through crazy long minutes. But he is going to expect them to bring it when they’re out there (no problem with that either, I just don’t think it matters who wins these dang games).
As tough as the schedule is in November, it’s just as friendly in December with home games like crazy (nine straight at one point I believe). So the Hawks will have their chance to make up for any dips before Christmas.
By Ken
October 6, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
I think Woodson’s comments were to say that he wants to develop the winners mentality and get that enthusiasm flowing early. These starters have been playing together since Feb/Mar, so i’m sure they are familiar enough with each other, especially after the series w/ Boston. He also should have a pretty good idea of what he’ll get out of Flip/Mo, with them being veterans. But I hope he just wants to see who is going to step up and lead the team, be it a starter or off the bench. Hopefully all the great progression we’ve heard about over the summer and in training camp won’t disappear tonight. Go Hawks!!
By The Truth
October 6, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
One thing is true Sekou, no matter how you slice this cake, when the regular season starts, winning will cure any ills or preceived ills the Hawks may have. If that winning starts, we will all get severe amnesia about anything negative we said previously about Woody.
By ray
October 6, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I’m done worrying about Woody and whatever he’s thinking or saying. I just don’t care until the games start. Let’s get the games on and we’ll see who is going to do what, and where.
By ray
October 6, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
The Truth, that sounds like….the truth to me.
By mred
October 6, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Sekou since mario is iffy what are the chances for robinson and gardner for making the roster
By HB Ando
October 6, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
There’s no winning arguments about the importance of winning pre-season tilts. Confidence for a young team, learning to win? Yeah, maybe. But if those wins come against teams who couldn’t care less, and who are trying to work out the back ends of their rosters, and protect the health of their veterans, it’s hard to suggest that there is any predictive value, for the real season, to be derived from winning games in the pre-season.
Me, I think any coach that risks his key players, to unnecessary injury, for the sole purpose of building his teams’ confidence, against opponents who may not even care if they win, is pretty short-sided.
I’d rather see Woody put the bench on the floor, and to the test, against legitimate NBA competition, to see who might be able to support this teams’ starting lineup.
It will make me sick if he puts JJ on the floor for major minutes, during these meaningless games. Protect your vets, this time of year. They know what they need to do to prepare for the grueling 82-game season. Put your rooks, your journeymen, and the guys who are supposed to make a big jump in contribution, on the floor (like Marvin).
Build the confidence of select individuals, rather than worrying about wins that won’t count for squat once the real season starts.
I want to see Marvin show off-season improvement. I want to see the expanded game of Horford. I want to see if Smith has developed a more consistent outside shot, or a much-needed low post game. I want to see Law run the team with confidence. If I see all of these things, then I don’t give a damn what the final score is. Because that will tell me much more about this teams’ potential than its pre-season won-loss record.
But if Woody really believes that pre-season wins are of more value than these other issues, then he only reinforces, for me, his very questionable ability to be the head coach of this team.
If Dwight Howard plays 15 minutes, and we beat the Magic, what have we really learned?
By bigeasy830
October 6, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
The Hawks will win at least 45 games this year. No way will we regress. The players gotta respect Woody for the way he guided them in that Boston series. I like the way the roster have been tweaked. Speedy need to throw some salt over his shoulder or put some salt peter in his shows to ward of the evil spirits and the roots someone has put on him. He must have upset one of those red bones down in Louisiana and she put a root on him. The man has had nothing but bad luck here in Atlanta. hahahahaha.
Sekou tell Speedy there are some people in south Georgia that can get that root of him. Ask around someone will point him in the right direction, but until then Salt Peter in the shoes will do wonders, hahaha.
By RaJaH
October 6, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
Still 1st Qtr. Hawks trail 3-11. Early tech on J. Smith.
By Sekou K. Smith
October 6, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this
This thing looks like jersey swap. Mo Evans plays for the Hawks now. Mo Evans is rolling with the Hawks now, having been replaced in the Magic lineup by Mickael Pietrus (Golden State last we saw him). This league is one big game of musical chairs.
We’re only a few minutes in and already Dwight Howard has swatted one of Al Horford’s shots, Josh Smith has a tech, Marvin’s missed a dunk and the Magic is rolling. The Hawks are shooting 1-for-7 right now with two turnovers and trail 11-3. Not exactly a smashing start.
As Bobby Bowden likes to say when one of his kickers shanks one wide right, “what happened?”
That was a cheap shot Mr. Bowden. Sorry. It’s early yet, perhaps these Hawks will play a little more inspired now that they’re in their customary early hole.
Pietrus looks good, by the way. He’s playing fast and furious, the way the Hawks were flying around the floor during the first week of camp.
14-5 now, gotta get back to this thing and see what’s going wrong for the boys from Hawksville. Oops, Marvin with a 3 from the corner makes it 14-8 with 7:01 to play. Horford with a layup. Bibby with a jumper.
Call the SWAT team off, it’s 16-12 after a quick Hawks run to get things back to normal.
By ray
October 6, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Heh…..here we go.
By Sekou K. Smith
October 6, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
The only glaring stat from the first quarter is the Magic’s 6-0 lead in fast break points. The Hawks never even came close to getting a chance to play in transition because they were so busy getting shoved around by the bigger Magic.
They’d be wise to crank up the pace against this team because Dwight Howard is a matchup nightmare for the Hawks (and most every other team in the league). He’s just too dang big.
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Marvin with a 3 from the corner? Wow! Was it a jumper or a set shot?
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
Has Solo and Morris seen any action yet? And what about Flip/Mo? How are they looking?
By richbrave
October 6, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
Using the logic that pre-season games are irrelevant, then regular season games don’t mean that much either. The only incentive is to make the playoffs against a team with whom you match up well. Using the ‘it’s not that important theory’, why not skip both pre-season and all but a handful of regular season games and basically just go straight to the playoffs.? Playoffs are the true test of an NBA club, and the level to which all teams aspire. Oh wait, revenue. Oh yeah, almost forgot. Sorry.
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Heh….and people scoffed at the idea that there might be a size issue. Riiiiiiight…
Hmmmm….somebody better figure out that we need to run. Of course, we were told last year that this wouldn’t be a problem….I can’t remember by whom….heh…
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
51-49 magic at halftime. Damm, I wish I could see the game.
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Ray, size must not be that big of an issue? We’re only down by 2 points on the road. And they dont get any bigger than Dwight.
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
terrell, the best you can do is keep looking for the updates on nba.com. That’s what I’m doing.
It’s a close game, but this accentuates the need to run and quit trying to walk it up against a pair of very aggressive guards and a frontline who’s shortest guys is 6’10”.
Notice that Orlando has balance along their frontline. Two guys who can shoot from the outside, both midrange and longrange, and one guy who scores on the inside. We need balance like that. We have one guy who can shoot from midrange (but isn’t a deadly threat) and might be able to shoot from further out on occasion. Looks like he can hit a 3 against more than just his own teammates. Again, can this happen every night, or no?
Mo Evans looks like he wants to put it on his old team…
By AtlFlavor
October 6, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Hawks winning on the boards at the half. Down by only 2 despite shooting like 30%. Bench looks good. Bibby not hitting 3’s though. Team looks good though. Need to take care of ball better and of course RUN!!. I think the Hawks pull it out with a late run.
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Damn, according to the stat column Horford is smokin’. I’m glad to see this much of the offense being run through him. Last year, 10 shot attempts would’ve been as much or more than he got all game. And he’s makin’ ‘em too, apparently.
Dwight has 7 blocked shots. What a friggin’ beast. Rashard is smokin’ somebody’s a$$. Gee, I wonder who…
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Horford is a true warrior. He’s at 13 and 7 with 3 blocks. Dwight is at 14 and 5 with 7 blocks. I’ll take that, as long as we are causing them problems in other spots.
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Somebody’s keeping Turkoglu off the boards and our guards are getting on the boards, hence the rebounding advantage.
That’s where we can make up for size deficit: aggression. Marvin has 3 boards. Better than his counterpart (if it’s Turkoglu he’s guarding).
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Evidently the moron who’s supposed to be updating the nba.com “live” game stats can’t figure it out. The score shows 76-67 in favor of the Hawks, but the boxscore is still showing 68-62 with the stats from that score. Maybe this guy used to work at the scorer’s table in Phillips Arena last year…
Either way, we’re ahead and adding steam apparently. We must be running. There’s not much of another explanation I can think of, because they have a better half court game than we do.
By richbrave
October 6, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
And according to the WIZARDS blogs, the rest of their division doesn’t stand a chance. Yeah, right.!!!!
By ray
October 6, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Okay, moron finally got it going again….
Neither Josh nor Marvin are shooting very well, but both are on the verge of scoring in double figures. Meanwhile, Evans, JJ, Bibby, and Horford are all in double figures.
Mo Evans is serious. He’s 4-6 from the field and 2-2 from the arc, with a couple of steals and a couple of assists. Nice.
Zaza is perfect from the field and the line, with 4 boards.
Solo is getting decent burn off the bench and is using it well.
So is Law. He’s 3-5 from the field with a couple of assists and 3 boards. Only one turnover in about 15 minutes played.
Uggghhh…the stat moron has gotten behind again, it’s 87-77 in our favor, but I can’t see who’s scored the last 10 points…
By Blast
October 6, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
Pre-season games do not count, but they are important. They help a team to get in gear for the regualar season and get a feel for their opponents, as well as for each other if they have new players, but I don’t think the starters should be loggin heavy minutes. Let the bench guys play, see what they can do against other NBA opponents. As of now, 9:015 pm eastern, the Hawks have a 10 point lead versus Orlando, on the Magics home court in pre-season.
By Brian
October 6, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
How has Flip looked? He is not a high energy player who is going to bring a ton of energy off of the bench…so I’m interested in seeing if Woody has given him enough consecutive minutes to get into the flow of the game.
When Flip is on his game he is one of the most difficult combo guards in the league to defend. It just takes him a while for the light switch to go on. One of the reasons why he’s been an NBA journeyman. Not too many bench players try to carry it like they are the number one option. Flip does that — almost to his detriment.
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Okay, I don’t know what the stat monkey is doing…he just changed some things back and forth a few times.
Score is 94-81 in favor of us. It looks like Acie law (unless the stat monkey really messed this up) has gone the f@ck off for 15 pts, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists on 6-8 shooting, including 1-1 from the arc. WOW. That’s what I’m talkin’ about Acie….
Evans continues his onslaught. He’s got 14 now, shooting 5-8 from the field and 3-3 from the arc. Damn I like this guy. Even more than I thought I would.
By Blast
October 6, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Hawks up 13 in the 4th. Acie is the leading scorer followed by Flip. Both teams have played their starters roughly equal number of minutes.
By Sekou K. Smith
October 6, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Acie Law has entered the building in a big way here in the second half. He just punctuated the Hawks’ stunning third quarter turnaround with a three-quarter court heave for a 3-pointer that gave the Hawks a 94-81 lead to start the fourth quarter. Horford’s been a beast. He started the whole thing by going right at Dwight Howard to start the second half. And now he can’t back on the floor, go figure.
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
I don’t believe it. I think the starters are actually done for the night, none having played more than about 22 minutes. Of course, the 4th quarter just started.
Woodson must really be trusting the bench…that’s new, but it’s only the preseason (yeah, you knew that phrase was coming sooner or later).
Somebody needs to take a blowtorch to the stat monkey’s arse….he’s driving me nuts.
Dwight is still in the game and now has 17 and 5. Score is now 96-88. They ain’t givin’ up.
By Samuel
October 6, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Yall,
I just got back from gymnastics. Check out Yahoo sports. They got play by play text.
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Zaza holding his own with 9 points, 5 boards, and a blocked shot.
In other news, Milwauke looks terrible. They are getting beaten like a red-headed step child by Minnesota. I think they have come within 15 points only a couple of times. Apparently they cannot seem to do a damn thing with Jefferson, Kevin Love, and Rashad McCants.
Bogut and Lue are the only ones not playing, but everybody else looks like crap on the stat column. Nobody has reached double figures and only Villanueva and some guy whose name I won’t even try to pronounce is even close. Scary. NOT….I don’t think they’re going to be that good, but this is the preseason. They’re shooting %30….barely…
Hey Skiles: you can make ‘em play “D”, but you can’t make ‘em score.
By Blast
October 6, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Acie Law and Flip are causing all sorts of trouble for Orlando right now. Hawks up by 8, 5 mins to the end of fourth quarter
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
Brian, Flip isn’t doing a whole lot…besides fouling. He’s had 4 fouls since, like, the second quarter or something.
Acie Law, however…is cooking. He’s sitting on 7-10 shooting for 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. He’s got 3 turnovers, too, but I’m not sweating that as much. Whoever they have guarding him can’t keep up with him, that’s for sure.
Meanwhile, Mo Evans has hit his 4th 3 pointer (he’s 4-4 from the arc) and is 6-9 overall, matching Acie’s 17 points. I’m liking this.
Marvin and Josh came back in for a while. Typical line, though: Marvin stopped shooting and remains 2-7 from the field with 7 points and the same 3 rebounds. Meanwhile, Josh has taken 14 shots and only hit 4 of them. The good news however, is that he has 7 boards, has only taken one 3-pointer, and only has 1 turnover in nearly 32 minutes of action. That’s an improvement. The shots will come…
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Good God. They really can’t handle Law at all. He just scored again (this time a 3-pointer), and now has 20 points. Yesssssss!
Zaza is holding at 11 and 6. Solo just got a couple buckets and now has 8 points.
By AtlFlavor
October 6, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Pre -season games are verrry IMPORTANT to the Hawks. This team looks good. Good to see em in person. Starters were good but the BENCH is has ARRIVED!! Damnn!! Acie Mo Za Za Solo Mario and Flip . Murray started slow but he is GOOD. BIG road win. The Hawks are going to be GOOOD!!!!
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Samuel, thanks for the tip. This is much better than NBA.COM. The stat monkey over there can’t keep up for $hit…
Horford grabbed a couple more boards before being taken out…
By Samuel
October 6, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
It’s over 118 to 101. Good win.
By Lacsho
October 6, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
HaHa My man Acie Had 20pts 5 rebounds, and 4 assist. 16 2nd half points….Thats Wassup, and to the haters Woody played his bench and managed the minutes nicely.
By Blast
October 6, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Go Hawks. Acie, 20 points, Evans, not Murray, 17 points and the Hawks steal one in Orlando. The starters played less minutes than the Magic starters. Pre-season games don’t count, but they matter. Hawks went 7-1 last season, got off to a good start, then tumbled before sneaking into the playoffs. Let’s see what they can do this year. Again I say, Go HAWKs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By ant banks
October 6, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
WHAT CHANNEL IS THE GAME ON?
ARE THERE ANY OTHER BLOGGERS WHO NEED ANOTHER PLAYER FOR FANTASY LEAGUE?
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Well, that was nice. Final score: Hawks 118, Magic 101. Thanks to a third quarter barrage, we slapped Orlando down.
I couldn’t see the game, but you can see what happened with the starters and the bench from the stat table. Law and Evans combined for 37 points off the bench. When’s the last time we had that happen?
Josh Smith had only one turnover. That’s always a plus.
Marvin Williams took less shots than the rest of the starting lineup and half the bench. I know this is just one game, but what am I supposed to think other than “same ol’ same ol’?”
Horford got the ball early and often. And capitalized on it. That’s good.
Solo actually got minutes. Together, he and Zaza seemed to hold it down pretty good, to the tune of 19 points and 9 rebounds in a total of about 31 minutes. Zaza’s stats are reminiscent of his first two years here. Need more of that.
Morris came in and hit a couple of buckets. I think we can count on him to do that when asked. He seems to be fairly smooth offensively. Defensively…probably not so much.
Gardner and West didn’t see much action.
Flip Murray got into foul trouble early but was most likely making a nuisance out of himself anyway.
Gotta hand it to Law and Evans. They lit it up. Evans can shoot, obviously. Nice to have him around, replacement or not. Damn good shooting….same of Law, who hit a couple of threes.
Looking forward to Sekou’s firsthand account and assessment of the game.
By kevin
October 6, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Lacsho is gay as hell
By richbrave
October 6, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Like I said. Haven’t fully decided on the WOODEN-one yet. A pre-season game does not a season make. Good step in the right direction though, LASCHO.
By The Truth
October 6, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Acie has ARRIVE!!
By ray
October 6, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Lacsho, not haters, doubters…and you know I have to say “we’ll see in the regular season”.
Other than that, hell yeah can’t deny Woody managed the minute very nicely. Some good team rebounding out there. It helped overcome the size disadvantage. Our guards helped out there, too (Acie, Flip).
I was hoping Acie would show us something. He damn sure did. Now let’s see if he can do it again. And again.
By Ken Strickland
October 6, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Sekou-I’m glad Woodson wants to win during preseason. It gives us a chance to see how HE has progressed. Hopefully, that focus on winning will let us see if he resorts to his old habits of leaning on his starters. Personally, I think this preseason shouold be used to evaluate Woodson’s progression more than the players and team. To this point, every Hawks player, except Acie, Solo and some might say Marvin, has proven himself at some point. The most unproven individual associated with this team is Woodson.
Can he adjust his mentality, personal preferences and hardline approach and adjust to a style and philosophy that’s better suited to the type of players he has?
By The Role of Ra'mon Will be Played By Devil's Advocate (Tonight Only)
October 6, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Yea, the Hawks did good tonight. I just hope they leave this game seeing more of what they did wrong instead of the things they did right. In a true regular season game, the entire front court would’ve been in foul trouble by the time the third quarter came.
The hawks bench is obviously much deeper than the Magics. Yet the question still remains, by the 3rd month of the season, how many players will get to rest their seat. I think the Hawks can easily win 47 games this season. However, I refuse to buy in to what happened tonight, until I see the bench log in considerable minutes in the games that count.
Woody says he needs to rely on the bench more this seasons. And half of the smokers in the world say they’re going to quit at least once every six months, yet they always end up back to the same habit. I just hope his Sund’s patch work this time.
By A Thinking Fan
October 6, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
Hmmm - Preseason…
By Melvin
October 6, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Why did Josh and Marvin play 25+ mins tonite. Woody won’t be happy until 1 or more of his starters gets hurt then he will used the excuse about having injuries…
By Astro Joe
October 6, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
http://www.nba.com/games/20081006/ATLORL/boxscore.html
I did not see that the bixscore had been linked, check it out.
Ray, as has been said before, someone has to take fewer shots in the starting line-up, and logic suggests it will either be Marvin or possibly Horford. When we win, does it really matter?
I’m thrilled for Acie. Let’s hope that he maintains both his confidence and his health.
By Ariose
October 6, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Woooooo!!!! Acie 20 pts. Mo-Mo was 4-4 from 3-pt range……Looks like the Magic got the short end of the stick with Pietrus…..Mo Owned him….and off the bench no doubt. Evans defenetly came in there with a chip on his shoulder…..hopefully we can do that every time (we have to play them at least four more times).
BTW Pietrus got 23mill??? for what??? And his dunks are weak…..”Air France” My azz…
~Sir Links A Lot
By Ken Strickland
October 6, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
I didn’t see or follow the play by play, but I did examine the stats. Nine players got 19 mins or more, and that’s very good time mgt. With Speedy out of the picture, I wonder if that gives DWest an opening to make the roster. With Zaza, a much improved Solo and the addition of Morris on the bench, MWest might be more valuable than another PF type, especially if we continue running. GOOD WIN HAWKS!!
By jc_dawgs
October 6, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
This sounds great! Did not get to watch but I’ll be getting the nba tkt again. Got so tired of the Hawks getting punked on the road last year. Not this year…the Atl will win there share of road games and they will be brutally tough at the Phillips.
This team has chemistry…talent and depth AND SPEED. That playoff caliber Hawk team is back. 48-34 this year. Go Hawks!
By Lacsho
October 6, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Kevin
We can meet in the streets, and I gurantee you won’t say that to my face. Matter of Fact I will be at Phillips Saturday,and we can me outside by the box office. I don’t play those internet games son, so don’t test me.
By Ariose
October 6, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Hey, Brian Cook For the Magic didn’t get any PT. He’s a big who can shoot threes. I’ve never really paid attention to his overall game though….I’m sure he doesn’t cost much….
By ant banks
October 6, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
ARE THERE ANY OTHER BLOGGERS WHO NEED ANOTHER PLAYER FOR FANTASY LEAGUE?
By Gilley
October 6, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
I am happy for Acie. He can keep doing this and prove ESPN wrong and be a solid backup and future starter to make us forget abot CP3 -), Deron Williams…..Just a lil bit!! I do think he is more of an explosive scorer than the two but he just has to be given the wings to fly and prove it.
By Ariose
October 6, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Recap from Magic.com
Recap:
The first quarter featured sloppy play by both teams, but mostly by the Hawks. As a result of their turnovers, the Magic were running and gunning in the first. That style of play helped J.J. Redick register one of his more productive quarters as a member of the Magic, as he scored seven points to lead the Magic in the first. After one quarter, the Magic led by five, with a score of 29-24.
In the second quarter, Stan Van Gundy decided to switch up his rotation a bit. Heading into the second quarter, Tony Battie, J.J. Redick and Courtney Lee were the only Magic players who had entered the game off of the bench. Anthony Johnson was added to that list in the second, playing just over six minutes and playing productive from the point guard position. He registered a bucket along with an assist and a rebound, while not committing a turnover.
Hedo Turkoglu played some point forward for the Magic, experimenting with a small lineup, as he Redick and Lee were all on the floor at the same time. It was an obvious experimental time, as the Magic offense looked stagnant and was much less effective. Their shooting percentage dropped from 61.9 percent after one quarter to 47.5 percent at the half. They did, however, head into the half with a two point lead, at 51-49.
As the second half began, it was a totally different game. The Magic took the court with an interesting starting lineup of Jameer Nelson, Keith Bogans, Hedo Turkoglu, Rashard Lewis and Dwight Howard. Bogans had not been on the court in the entire first half. That lineup struggled on the defensive and offensive ends, allowing the Hawks to go on a huge offensive outburst, scoring 20 points in the quarter in less than seven minutes. The Hawks continued their solid offensive play throughout the quarter and wound up dropping 45 points on the Magic defense.
Orlando managed to register 30 points of their own on offense, but the damage had already been done. For the remainder of the game, Coach Stan Van Gundy rotated his players in to get a look at different lineups and players. The team pulled to within seven at one point, but Acie Law took charge for the Hawks, scoring bucket after bucket to end any run the Magic were trying to put together.
Law score 20 points in the game to lead the Hawks, followed by Mo Evans’ 17 points. For the Magic, Lewis led the team with 22 points, followed by Dwight Howard’s 17. J.J. Redick played considerable minutes and played well, notching 12 points and shooting 5-of-8 from the field. He also did well on the defensive end, as did Howard, who notched eight blocks in the game.
The Magic, however, couldn’t recover from their third quarter defensive lapse and lost the game by the final score of 118-101. They take the court next at 7 p.m. Wednesday night against the Charlotte Bobcats at Amway Arena. Log on to OrlandoMagic.com to watch the live Baseline Blog throughout the game with up-to-date commentary.
By Samuel
October 6, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Cuz,
I gotta say I like Woody’s attitude. I don’t like to lose nothing. Preseason, Summer League, practice game, nothing. That’s not a bad attitude to have considering our record over the last 10 years. Winning is a learned behavior.
Our bench tonight proved that they can play with anybody. Preseason or not. We got 10 players who can hold their own.
Let’s go undefeated this preseason and see what happens.
By The Truth
October 6, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
According to the boxscore, By committee, all 4 of our centers did a nice job, combining 36 points and 18 rebounds. Morris got very little PT and scored 4 pts 1 rebound. I would like to see him get more PT (going forward) just to gauge his full capability. We won’t know until we find out. We won’t want to discover this in a critical game time situation.
By HB Ando
October 6, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Joe, not to answer for Ray, but when ANY team wins, the issue of individual minutes, and shots, always flies under the radar.
Me, I think the Hawks would do themselves, and Horford, a disservice, if Horford has to give up touches so an otherwise post-deficient offense can take turns jacking up outside shots.
The plus/minus data suggests, for tonight at least, our bench was far better than theirs. But if anyone thinks Dwight Howard will be held to five boards, by the Hawks, in a regular season game, there are some seriously delusional people here.
There’s a reason players from the NBA and the NFL b*** about unnecessarily long pre-seasons. It’s because the risk of injury far outweighs the financial value to the owners.
The value of this win is, to me, inconsequential. But I am impressed by the individual performances of Law and Evans, as well as Horford. Guys like Bibby and JJ are just getting their workout.
It seriously cracks me up that so many folks are legitimately excited about the outcome of the first pre-season game. As a point of reference, Minny is crushing the Bucks by 40. Does that mean that Minny is now a legitimate championship contender?
By blue hawk
October 6, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
ant banks
ask samuel if he can make room for one more team. the more the merrier, right? besides, a deep league is always interesting and challenging to play.
to see acie have a nice game gives all hawks followers a sigh of relief. almost everyone had been wondering if acie is a bust. but now he has shown what’s possible with him around. hopefully, acie can also gel with joe johnson ‘cause if acie keeps showing what he can do, bibby will become more and more expendable. i think if, for both guys (Bibby and Law), given the same number of minutes, they’ll produce very similar stats. If I were to choose between them I’d play Acie more because he is so much more competetive with an obvious passion for winning. I can’t help but feel that Bibby had lost some of his fire and has become somewhat lax already, as seen in the playoffs up till now. Hopefully, Bibby can bring his A-game back or else it’s bye-bye for him.
By Lacsho
October 6, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Ray
It’s a marathon, so we have to take one step at a time. I like the first steps, lets hope they remain consistent.
By terrell barron
October 6, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Acie, Acie, Acie!
By Astro Joe
October 6, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Ando, in a poorly defined offense, only the uber-aggressive players will get their fair share of shots. And in our starting line-up, that means Horford & Marvin are looking for scraps (on most nights). Maybe, with an actual offensive philosophy, we could see a more logical approach to shot distribution, but alas, the ASG offered Woodrow a contract extension.
By Lacsho
October 6, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
What cracks me up Ando is you think you are GOD of the blog. Put up or Shut up!!!! I’ve stated before I have $50 on it…..
No matter what happens you have something negative to say. Why are you a Hawks fan? Same negativity, Same lame argument. Give it a break man…. Why do you feel you have to use a condescending tone towards die hard hawks fans??????? IF the Hawks loose tonight, here’s your argument “same old woody, same old hawks, I told you so”……..
By cp
October 6, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Nice win. I know it is only preseason but it is nice to see that we have a deeper bench this season. I know Law wont play like this everynight but if he is agressive ilke this then it will only help this team. He has the game he just seemed to passive last year. If he plays up to his capability then it will make it easier to slide him into the starting spot if we trade or dont re sign Bibby. I like what Evans brings to the table. This team can be good this year. I will be getting the league pass once again so I wont miss any game.
By Ariose
October 6, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this
NBA.com official Recap
~Sir Links A Lot
By Ariose
October 6, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Play by Play from Magig website. Great stuff, check it out.
~Sir Links A Lot
By HB Ando
October 6, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
Lac, I thought I’d already confirmed our $50 bet. No waffling here. Not believing is not the same as not being a fan.
And I didn’t mean to be condescending, when I suggested that anyone here who thinks that Howard will be held to 5 boards, in a regular season game, is on crack. I actually thought that statement was virtually inarguable.
But hey, you and I put our money where are mouths are. So time will tell. You stepped up, in support of the Hawks, when almost everyone else went mute on the offer.
I just don’t believe in the coach, or in the owners’ financial commitment. And I don’t believe in the balance of the roster, as it stands.
If I lived in Boston, or Detroit, then you would see a different perspective. But I live here, and I just call it like I see it.
For the last 4 years, this organization has done nothing to dismiss my negativity. If this is the year, then I’ll eat crow. I’ve said a million times, that I’d rather be wrong, and have the Hawks be legit, than continue to be right, and have to follow a fatally flawed franchise.
You can p** at me, if you want. But I’m not the reason this franchise has been a long-standing laughingstock, in the NBA.
Kind of like shooting the messenger…….
By Hawksfan
October 6, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this
Sekou, can you tell us why josh smith got hit with the technical?
By Lacsho
October 7, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
Ando there comes a time when one must move forward, and we can’t continue to dwell on the past mishaps. You know a couple of years ago I was riding hard with you about management and woody. I think Ken was the main person making positive contributions to the blog at that time.
It seems like every time we get a great vibe on this blog, someone comes in and sucks all the positive energy out of the air. Most of us have been patiently waiting for this young group of guys to mature, and reach their potential. Finally, I see everything I wish coming into fruition, and I’m totally ecstatic about this current team.
I worked at this call center, and I use to listen to my friend tell me how much he hates his job…. Often I found myself lamenting the same thing… I noticed every time he came around the mood would change, and I felt myself being dragged down. Finally, I told my friend, “If you hate this job so much quit”. I told him if the only contribution you have is negativity, I don’t want to be around you… We had a harsh talk, but in the end he understood how I felt, and I wasn’t the only person feeling that way….
Times are so hard, with the economy in the toilet, and people loosing there homes and jobs. Sometimes a blog like this, is the only outlet from the harsh reality of this economic depression….
I’m blessed b/c I have a great new job, but I’ll always remember where I come from. Sometimes hope is all one has….
Peace
By Ariose
October 7, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this
Hawksfan, He got the tech for arguing a foul called on him with a ref.
BTW Marvin hit a 3-pointer…….
By The Truth
October 7, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this
Just a thought:
Sour grapes make winning that much sweeter
By TruATLien
October 7, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Damn what a rip-roaring start, great 3rd quarter they had. Glad Acie got off tonight.
By Volman
October 7, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
Preach, Lascho….
By Hawksfan
October 7, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
Thanks ariose i figured it was something to that nature. Lets go hawks!
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 7, 2008 3:15 AM | Link to this
Damn, wish I could have seen this game. LOVE the Acie Law stat line. I’ve liked his game since college and I’ve been waiting for him to translate that at the pro level. It would be outstanding if he could play like that every day in the regular season.
By Sekou K. Smith
October 7, 2008 3:59 AM | Link to this
The early technical on Josh Smith was for arguing with the one of the refs. Josh thought he got fouled (didn’t see what happened but he was on the floor) and barked at the ref and Bob Delaney didn’t like what he said and whistled him for the tech. Funny thing is, Delaney wasn’t the ref Josh was yelling at.
By J
October 7, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this
Ando,
You are no messenger by any means. And I agree, I’m tired of the negativity … I get enough at work and from my fiancee. It’s time to be positive … there is no fun in this world when negativity is around. Hawks did a great job in the offseason, they have a great team put together, and they have the talent.
By terrell barron
October 7, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
What’s up with Othello Hunter? Why did’nt he play?
By I.MUS WRITE
October 7, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
There is live play by play of the preseason games on 790 The Zone………
” Ando thinks he’s GOD of the blog”….. WOW - Maybe one of the 12 desciples but GOD no way…LOL
Our reserves wont get 51 points a night during the season, but its good to see them being agressive. We have to play 4-5 guys a night off the bench if were to be successful.
IF Law/Mo/ZAZA/Solo can give us between 30-35 pts off the bench to go with the starters we are gonna cause sum headaches this year.
By I.MUS WRITE
October 7, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Well put Lascho, with the current state of things in this country….
Blog/Sports give me an escape from the maddness ..atleast for a couple of hours anyway. I know we all want change but apparently sum want change more than others. I got up this morning hit Star Bucks and made my way down to Pryor St. I went there to vote early -thinking that i’d be one of a few…… When i hit the 4th floor and exited the elevator there was atleast 100 people in there for the early vote, and this is at 9 thirty……..Jeezuz… I guess it really is time for change
By Ken Strickland
October 7, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this
LACSHO-thanks for the props. My optimism was based on my understanding of what BK was trying to accomplish by drafting so many forwards. He took his cue from the Braves. They loaded up on young arms and then traded off some for whatever position players they needed. BK traded off our surplus for the PG(Bibby)we needed and it worked.
We now have a VERY SOLID necleus thanks to him, and have added some nice support pieces to compliment that necleus. One thing is certain. THE SUCCESS AND THE EXPECTATIONS OF THIS TEAM HAS ALL BUT ELIMINATED TALK THAT ONCE DOMINATED THESE BLOGS ABOUT THE PLAYERS WE COULDA, SHOULDA DRAFTED. That in itself is progress.
One thing should be very evident about this yrs team.
(1)Very few teams will be able to dominate/defeat us because they’re simply more talented or athletic.
(2)Very few teams will be able to dominate/defeat simply because their bench is stronger, deeper or more experienced.
(3)Very few teams will be able to dominate/defeat us simply because they’re quicker, faster or better perimeter shooters/defenders.
(4)Very few teams will be able to dominate/defeat us simply by focusing on stopping JJ or Bibby.
Lsst yr we played well enough at home to make the playoffs. If we can translate our newfound experience, versatility, shooting range/ability and maturity into better road production, we can not only make the playoffs, we can be a force in the playoffs. I JUST CAN’T WAIT FOR THE SEASON TO OFFICIALLY START.
By ray
October 8, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this
Well. The blog does not seem to be working at the moment. It’s just as well. I think I’ve had enough of the crab syndrome as it is.