AJC > Sports > Hawks > Blog > Archives > 2008 > October > 28 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USCalm before the storm
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
HAWKSVILLE - This silence is nerve wracking.
Waiting around for the Hawks to kick off the 2008-09 season against their favorite Southeast Division foe (it seems like the Hawks and Orlando have played twice a week since training camp started) has been almost as painful as waiting for all of September to get training camp going.
Love ‘em or hate ‘em, there is something reassuring about the Hawks’ season kicking off.
They’ve been our punching bag the past few years. They’ve been our blankie, our favorite slippers, our lucky sweats or whatever other pet object you treat like a wet food stamp only to go back to it again and again expecting it to fit just the way we like.
If you let the Hawks tell it, though, they’re done being our victims. That playoff series with Boston last spring was just the beginning, not the end of an (the Billy Knight) era.
So our days of abusing them, even in jest, might be over.
“We’ve taken our lumps the past few years and that’s cool,” Hawks captain Joe Johnson said. “But we’re not going back to where we were. We’re not running in place any more. We’re chasing more than what we’ve accomplished so far. We’re tired of watching somebody else do what we want to do. So we’re going to fight for our spot.”
That spot Johnson mentioned is the Hawks’ spot in the Eastern Conference food chain. After being guppies for years, the Hawks believe they are moving up. Only time will tell - and what better test is there than the Hawks’ opening stretch that includes 10 of their first 16 games on the road?
At least one pundit, Scoop Jackson of ESPN.com’s Page 2, seems to believe. Jackson picked the Hawks to win the division (the only member of the Worldwide Leader’s pundit brigade to pick a team other than Orlando for the top spot).
There are cautionary tales for the Hawks to learn from, teams that experienced a little bit of postseason magic and assumed they were on the road to redemption, only to be slapped back to reality the following season.
Golden State didn’t make the playoffs a year after knocking off Dallas in the first round. And that Chicago team that everyone thought served notice by dispatching Miami two years ago bottomed out last season and are basically in yet another rebuilding mode.
So why should anyone believe the Hawks are headed for anything more than a one-hit wonder playoff trip and then back to their permanent seat at the geek table?
“The difference between us and some of these other teams is that we’ve really done this the slow and painful way and never strayed from that course,” said Hawks forward Josh Smith, the lone player remaining from the 2004-05 season, Mike Woodson’s first at the helm of this team. “That’s one of the things about doing some the hard way, it always lasts. The quick fix never lasts.”
If a 106-222 regular season mark the past four years is considered the “hard way,” the Hawks are the league champs in that category.
Few teams have endured a more dizzying array of bad draft picks (Shelden Williams anyone?), puzzling trades (everyone’s still waiting for those Gary Payton Hawks jerseys to go one sale), botched free agent signings (in their defense, Speedy Claxton did have severe injury issues and Josh Childress got a groundbreaking offer from Olympiacos), off-court drama Hollywood screenwriters couldn’t dream up (let’s not revisit the ownership squabble), stunning drama (Jason Collier’s family remains in our prayers) and just about any other crazy thing that could happen to a team during a four-year stretch fit for the Twilight Zone.
To their credit, the Hawks have come through all of it in relatively decent shape. The roster is as balanced as it’s been in years. The salary structure is solid, with the ability to get better with a few moves here and there over the next couple of seasons. They rekindled some of the love with their fans by putting on as good a home playoff show as any team (other than the Celtics) during the postseason.
Perhaps most stunning is that the Hawks gone from a punch line around the league to an actual topic of discussion in places as far away as Los Angeles, where Lakers coach Phil Jackson was actually asked about the Hawks during one of his training camp media scrums.
“Usually, it’s tough to carry that over,” Jackson said when asked if he thought the Hawks would be able to capture some of that same playoff magic this season. “It’s something that solidifies in the post-season. They have a awful lot of young guys who are all searching for pecking order there. But they got a start.”
Man, even the Zen-Master thinks the Hawks might have stumbled on to something.
Maybe times really are a changing.
Comments
By rms
October 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
Dang Sekou what took u so long!! That too long a gap in between blogs. I need more than that. Hope Acie and our bench steps up and Woody takes the shackles off these guys and let them play loose. what do u think?
By rms
October 29, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this
Also Sekou, I dont think thats what the Zen-Master meant. I think that was just a nice way of saying they better stay their butts out in the East or we will eat them up as our appetizer and they wont amount to much anyway. WOW, Scoop thinks the Hawks will win the division. Man, hell must be thawing out after it just froze over!!
By rms
October 29, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
Hey Sekou, slap M. Bradley for me and tell him to get with the program and start drinking the kool-aid!! At least pretend to be a AJC reporter that likes the home team!!
By smartguy
October 29, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this
Woodson is still the worst coach ever. As long as he is in charge, it will be tough to be a Hawks fan. Give it a month, then we will already be talkin about a new coach.
My basketball soul is too scarred up from Mike Woodson wounds to have any hope for this year.
By SQUAWKER
October 29, 2008 4:23 AM | Link to this
Wow, Sekou….thanks for finally deciding to check in….your hours are almost as odd as mine….
RANDOM PRE-SEASON QUESTION - LAST CHANCE TO GO ON RECORD BEFORE THE SEASON!!!!
What would you say the chances are that Bibby gets traded at or before the trade deadline? And if we shop him, what would we look for in return? Thanks, I’ll hang up now and wait for your response =)
By Sekou K. Smith
October 29, 2008 6:18 AM | Link to this
I don’t think the chances are good at all SQUAWKER, unless things go terribly wrong between now and the trade deadline. As long as your in the mix for the playoffs there is no need to mess with this team.
The only thing to move him for is a legit starting PG or C that can help lift your team to a new level.
Since you asked me, the smart move for the Hawks would be to keep Bibby all year and save that cash when he comes off the books this summer. That’s far more beneficial than any trade might be unless there’s an All-Star caliber player you get in return for Bibby.
And sorry I disappeared for a few days, but I had to finish up the preview stuff and take a couple days to mourn the death of a once proud football program (go easy on me Dan and the rest of you Michigan football haters, it’s already been the longest season of my liftime).
By Stefan
October 29, 2008 6:18 AM | Link to this
Great offseason, good preseason, players getting their groove back, and todays the big day! I’m dieing of anxiousness over here! I can’t wait for the start of the Hawks 08-09 season!
By some sense
October 29, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
Couple of responses:
The guy(s) that keeps up the “Woody must go” copy is as boring as people who still yell “air ball” at games.
Seems like we’re always lookin’ at the next big deal. This one is Bibby comin’ off the books next summer…NEXT summer?????
By Hawk in New Orleans
October 29, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this
This season can’t commence any sooner. I don’t know if its optimism or anticipation but whatever it is, its overflowing right now. If Bibby can kick it in gear, the team will be fine and will succeed no matter who’s coaching.
By Hawk in New Orleans
October 29, 2008 7:59 AM | Link to this
This season can’t commence any sooner. I don’t know if its optimism or anticipation but whatever it is, its overflowing right now. If Bibby can kick it in gear, the team will be fine and will succeed no matter who’s coaching.
By mountain_jim
October 29, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
With the Season Pass free preview, I will actually get to see a Hawks game or 2.
Go Hawks!
By Dan
October 29, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Sekou
Looks like “little brother” grew up a bit. I attend all Spartan bowl games. Hoping to be in Florida for New Year’s Day.
question for everyone: How many of you are wearing Hawks gear to work today? Mark Bradley’s aritcle talked about how there is little buzz in the city about the season starting. I don’t understand that. I cannot wait to get this thing going…
By mavid
October 29, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this
Sekou, we keep hearing how sucky this bench is from all the “pundits”… and to be truthful, it does look kinda bad on paper. You seem to really think it will be an adequate unit this year. Are guys like Solomon and Zaza really ready to play at a somewhat decent NBA level?
By clint
October 29, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this
Ready for the game tonight even without Marvin. Mo, Flip, and Acie will have to be huge to help fill that gap with some point production. We may even have to play Randolph Morris to use up some fouls on superman Howard.
The scare for me over the long haul is that under Woody this team never plays consistant defense. Its there some games and not there more often. Effort and concentration better be there for 48 minutes tonight for the hawks to pull it off.
By hawkeye
October 29, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
well it seems like since bynum came back the lakers wants to move odom should we trade bibby for him?
By RAD
October 29, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
I think the real “calm before the storm” is located on the front page of the AJC Sports Section in this morning’s paper. I see 4 Hawks smiling and one not smiling. Take a close look into the eyes of the one not smiling and what do you see?
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this
Doc, from last blog: when have you ever known me to post a link? Heavy lifting? Why would a light weight like me compete in heavy weight lifting against guys like Ariose and Manny? I can’t hang with them, they’d link me to death…Just go to nba.com (like I said, you clown) and the story is right there on the front page. Complacency, huh? You can’t just go there and look for it yourself, I gotta post you a link? Heh heh heh…yes, I’m fully awake…and highly caffeinated…I don’t drink coffee much, and now I remember why…
Meanwhile, Let’s Get It On!
By Swatguy
October 29, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
Is it me our does it seem Atlanta-Orlando is the newest “Rival” with significance in the NBA? Did the Hawks press a button in that first pre-season game sending the Magic on tear? I expect a very physical, playoff atmosphere even, game tonight. Dwight went “full-tilt boogie last week at Philips, Al and Josh (Zaza and Randy too) better tighten their jocks. With Marvin not dressed, Mo will have ample opportunity to ask, so you didn’t want me? I wasn’t good enough for you? And speaking of edge, Solomon gotta be Jones’n to stretch out in front of the kinfolks. Joe will have his scowl(see Stackhouse) and Flip (needs no reason) will make them pay just because. Sekou will Speedy be available? which three will sit with Marvin?
And Ain’t it a blip, The better the Hawks get the more woe is in Ann Arbor.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
RAD:
Enlighten us. AJC sports section is hard to read from the mid-Atlantic region.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Message to the haters. Satan get behind me, I’m looking up.This will be the year of the bandwagon. There’s plenty of room, so kick back and enjoy the ride.
To the naysayers who say we’re like Chicago, Dallas, and Golden State we have room for you on the wagon too. This has been a slow methodical process, and we have finally arrived. Some like it quick and fast; however, I like it slow and lasting. We’re not one hit wonders; we will be here for a while.Instead of me against the world, I say it Hawks, and the Hawks fans against the world baby, and we will prevail!!
By RAD
October 29, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
richbrave
On the front page of the AJC Sports we have….. a photo of the Hawks starters. On row one you have Woody & Bibby. On row 2 you have Marvin, Al, Josh, and Joe. Woody is positioned between Al & Josh but he is in front of them. All of the players, with the exception of Josh, have either a big smile or a semi-smile on their face as they are looking straight ahead into the camera. Josh appears to have his eyes cut at Woody and he’s not smiling. That’s the reason that I said perhaps this is the “calm before the storm.” I certainly hope not!
By A Thinking Fan
October 29, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
Despite BASG! I have some hope for this team this year!
Go HAWKS!!!
By Ariose
October 29, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
Sekou, You didn’t leave us……your articles kept us company lol. Sekou, I know everyone is going to jump on me for this, but if we get off to a good start do you think Bibby can get an All-star nod?(I mean. he deserves at least one in his career)
Honestly, if you think about it, This bench fits our personality. Guys who are exellent talents who have been forgotten about and probably have chips on their shoulders(FlipMo/Acie/Solo). Our whole team is always getting overlooked, Counted out, or just being blasted by media that rarely even watches a Hawks game…..we’ll let em know this year though.
rms, I have to agree. That seemed like a backhanded comlement by the Zen Master. To me it sounded like “I don’t think they can carry that momentum over…..and they defenetly won’t beat us this year.”
If the Magic Feed it to Dwight Early and often we might see some RandMo action tonight for fouling pouroposes…….we HAVE to keep Dwight in the high post where he’s not effective(Easier Said than done, I know…)
Peitrus will get OWNED by Evans AGAIN(you know he’s still ready to deal some lingering offseason PAIN lol.)
~Sir Links A Lot~
By Freshmaker
October 29, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Sekou, what do you think of our bench? They don’t seem to be too bad a unit based on the preseason, for whatever that’s worth. A lot of analysts seem to be down on them though. You don’t even wanna read what Bill Simmons of ESPN had to say about ‘em in his 08-09 season preview.
By TAR HEELS 3
October 29, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
COACH WOODSON WILL BE COACH OF THE YEAR AND THE ATLANTA HAWKS WILL WIN THE SOUTHEAST DIV
By Melvin
October 29, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
The offseason seems like an enternity. Can’t wait to see the Hawks in action tonite. However, I did watch the 3 games that was on last nite. Although it was their 1st game of the season, here my analysis. Celtics still are the Beast of the East. Cavs has no low post game and they will be playing alot of small ball with Lebron at the 4. They look very beatable. Derrick Rose is the truth. He’s very quick and athleteic and has even more speed. He will be a handful for opposing teams to defend. Chicago doesn’t have low post threat either. Can see them in the playoffs. The Bucks look terrible. Their bench is worse than our 07-08 bench. No playoffs and I expect to see Redd gone by the trade deadline (hmm, I wonder if they would be interested in Bibby). Lakers look like the team to be in the West. Bynum and Gasol will cause major problems for opposing teams in the paint. Odom will be the Sixth man of the year. Kobe will be in the running for the MVP again. Portland looks good on paper but they are young. Their future looks bright but they need vetern leadership at PG (Bibby????). They should challenge for the 7,8 spot in the West.
By femhawkfan
October 29, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
I am so excited for the start of the season. I have a lot of confidence in these Hawks! I think they have a huge chance of really doing some big things this year.
By Ryder
October 29, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Hey everyone! Just taking a quick break from the Daddy duties to give a shout out to my Hawks family as we get ready for another exciting season (man I sound like Rathburn, guess I’m still in the honeymoon phase) at the Highlight Factory!
Sekou any word on Woodson’s lineup changes since Marvin will be serving his one game suspension tonight? Perhaps they will start both Zaza and Big Al.
Also, do you know his plans for the second unit? I would suspect that Mo Evans will get a lot of playing time due to his familiarity of the Orlando offense.
richbrave going to check out the Wiz against the Nets tonight? I think they can get the easy W against NJ. I think having Juan Dixon back in the house will help the feel-good vibes with Agent Zero out til the new year. McGee’s a sleeper!
Well everyone, I’m excited and I’ll be listening out for the Hawks on NBA league pass (on the radio of course, the wife has given me a gag order on watching it on TV for fear of throwing something and waking up the kid). Enjoy everyone!
By rms
October 29, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
Dang man, who else got league pass?? At least I get to hear it on the radio. They definitly have to use Morris and some of their big guys to eat up some fouls on Howard so Horford can stay out of foul trouble. Countdown to the season, let the playoff countdown begin!! Marvin Williams is a SAP!!!!
By Dan
October 29, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Just a thought… The Hawks might be the best team in this town. The Braves are falling fast, Falcons are in rebuilding mode, and the Thrashers are neglected by this ownership group.
Centerstage is there for the Hawks to take over.
thinking that Mo will start tonight for Marvin I keep forgetting that Marvin is not available tonight.
By doc
October 29, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
ray, it is sharing among friends not competing with the link beasts. btw, i am sure glad your wife has a good sense of humor and goes to the trouble to share those fun bits rather than refer me to where i might look. maybe one of your cohorts can teach you to do it as it takes very little time.
By Tyger
October 29, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
**BK for Hawks Hall O’ Fame”
When its all said and done, anyone with half a brain, will look back and recognize the impact of BK on this franchise.
He’ll reside alongside Nique, Pistol, Sweet Lou, Doc, Tree, Hubie, Fratello and Ted as icons.
He was soley responsible for turning this miserable franchise around, despite the buzzards flying around his afro.
Nevermind, the 20 or so, 1st rd. busts that left the franchise bankrupt of young talent. Or the dimwitted trades for Big Dog Robinson, SAR or JR Rider.
It was BK that said ENOUGH! And drafted the most talent this franchise has had at one time than in the past 20 years.
Stared down an evil rouge owner as though he were SATAN himself and acquired All-star JJ, despite hell and high water.
Capped it off with 3xNCAA champ, Big AL, AC and Bibby and like magic, the Hawks went from no future to 13wins to 26 to the playoffs.
No matter what the fair weather fans and pundits say, I know where the buck lies in re. the Hawks revitalization, and its with BK.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Doc From the last blog your comments about the link you provided were dead on. I guess we have blog spies lol.
Swatguy
I think you’re right. This will be a very intense game. ( I wish Marvin was playing tonight).
Ray
I’m so geeked I can hardly sit still. Me and the family on are on our way to the store for pizza and wings. You know I have to pick up some Coronas’. I’ll be watching the pre-game show,and I’m recording the game, so I can over analyze it tomorrow..
HAWKS FANS RISE UP
By cp
October 29, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
I got my early bird league pass special ordered ( 4 payments of 42 something a month aint bad) and im ready for some basketball. I hope this team comes out tonight with some energy. If we start out sluggish we wont win. The bench will have to come in and play as well as they did in the pre season… We can win this game. We always seem like a tough match up for Orlando.
By MannyT
October 29, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
I hope I don’t get kicked out of the brotherhood of internet linkers of knowledge, yup, BILK for sharing what’s behind the high tech curtain.
text brackets [] copy paste parentheses ()
That’s all you need to do the basics of blog linking. The tricky part is scoring the internet to find the reference that supports your world view, no matter how non-standard.
This might be a mini rant on but I’m not sure. I am sure that this is less of a defense of Childress and more of a defense of a point.
Sekou Love that 5 questions is back. You were good for 4.5. Not that the Chills/Flip Mo thing was a trade, but it almost always works in favor the the team that gets fewer players when there are professional sports trades. Herschel Walker got traded for a ton of guys that were not special. Shaq went to Miami for a number of guys that were decent, but not the same level of player. Besides, if you don’t keep them together or leverage them up, Caron Butler ends up in DC instead of holding down the SF for the Lakers. The only major remnant of that trade for them is Lamar (you can go now that Bynum is healthy) Odum. I think I have healthier knees than Brian Grant where ever he may be today. Will Memphis be better off because they got 27 players for Pau Gasol? Nope.
Even on a lower local level, when Al-get me outta here-Harrington left here in a sign & trade, Indy had to take John Edwards back. Indy got all the players. We were still better off with the draft pick (AC Law) and the cap relief. Last local example. For all the whining about Bibby, would you rather have him or the collective Lo (popcorn) Wright, Shelden (Mr. WNBA MVP) Williams, Ty (save me a spot in Europe) Lue, and Anthony (Woody hated playing me even though I was his best PG option) Johnson.
More isn’t automatically better, it’s just more.
And if I roll that back to your first question, does Woody really need a ton of options, or does he coach better with a short bench. The real Million Dollar question of this season.
rant off
I think I’ll short sell that Jim Jones 50 win Kool Aid. I think it gets a lot of takers this week, some dispair and dismay by Thanksgiving, but some more hope and excitement by February. I’m sticking with the tricky words of one of the greatest Hawks centers, Moses Malone, when he was in Philly. THe Hawks win 44 games because Mo said “Four, four, four,” he declared, referring to three straight sweeps, and his distinctive accent made it sound like “Fo, fo, fo.”
Two hours to the start of the next bandwagon. All aboard?
BWAF
By MannyT
October 29, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Tyger Not sure that I’d put BK in the hall of fame, but his tenure looked like Filet Mignon compared to the chicken crap college choosing cluster cluck that preceded him.
Let’s have one of those reunion days this season. We can bring back Babcock’s greatest hits, including Priest Lauderdale, Roshown McLeod, and Ed Gray.
Oddly, Babcock’s best pick was organized by Billy Knight. In order for the Hawks to bring Shareef Abdur-Rahim here in 2001, we made the trade that allowed the Grizzlies to use our #5 pick for some guy named Pau Gasol.
Europunk…hmmm
Samuel what week do I get you in fantasy league? I’m going to have to take this one out on you ;-)
BWAF
By Sekou K. Smith
October 29, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Mo Evans will start in place of Marvin. An All-Star bid for Bibby Ariose? He’ll have to play lights out from the start for it to even be a possibility. And yes Mavid, the bench is better than the pundits think. I don’t know that they are the league’s best or anything, but they’ll be better than they are given credit for.
Mark Bradley and I are here in chilly Orlando, waiting to get into the Hawks’ locker room for the pregame stuff. Back with updates throughout.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
HAWKS are in the building.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
So Acie will backup Bibby. Flip will backup Joe. Who’ll come in for Evans at SF? Mario? Gardner? Who? Guys, dont be suprised to see JJ play 48 min tonight with Marvin out of the lineup. Just a pre-caution. lol!! This is the lineup that I was screaming for as soon as we signed Evans. With Marvin coming off the bench of course.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
RYDER:
Keep tuned. I’ll post you up as things develop on MSN. It’ll be interesting to see what the WIZ get out of the 1 and 5 slots tonight, and how EDDIE uses his personnel. D.C. plays two against the HAWKS before Nov. 30. I’ve penciled in two W’s for the ATLANTANS in spite of the SMITH-WOODSON face-off.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this
Richbrave, Rule #1: NEVER pencil in a win for the Hawks. NEVER! I dont care who their playing. Glad you used a pencil, and not a pen.
By HB Ando
October 29, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this
Orlando is giving 8 points. I’ll take that, opening night in Orlando.
Big night from Howard should be expected.
Magic win: 110-96
By MannyT
October 29, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
Is HB now short for Hawks Bookie ;-)
What’s the over/under on Josh’s points tonight?
14 seems like a big spread on opening night.
I am just happy to enjoy the game. We usually give Orlando a tough time even though they are a better team. It the same way that the Bobcats always play the Hawks tough.
Mo might be the guy to harrass those big forwards, but they can shoot right over him. In a flexible bench night, this could be a call for a taller defender that can guard the perimeter. Do we have an extra one on the bench?
Off to get some popcorn!
BWAF
By Professor
October 29, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
Guys, its good to be back. A new beginning. Let’s see what this team can do. I think they are better than last years team and I like what they have done with the roster. I think someone will step up from outta nowhere this year, either MW or JS with a breakout year, maybe even Bibby, who is in a contract year. One thing is for sure….we will see….
By doc
October 29, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this
statement time. let’s roll.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
The STINGER is back in the house! Welcome back Mike Glenn.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Damn, I wish Marvin was playing. Cant wait to see him launch a 3.
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
After an extended absence, I’m back. 11-hour days may have taken their toll on my lack of posts, but I’ve downed a couple PBRs after a long day and I’m back.
I’m interested to see this Hawks team; while there is less buzz there is more substance.
It’s already off to a good start … that much-missed laugh of Mike Glenn is back; it’s just too back he’s not doing the games.
i hope to see a big game from mo evans. if he hangs 20 on the magic tonight, i think we’ll be in good shape.
here’s to another - wait - a hopefully - exciting season of hawks’ basketball …
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this
or maybe if mo gets 2 pts …
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Evans should start, with Marvin coming off the bench. PERIOD!
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
good hustle, good rebounding, marginal help defense, good weak-side defense so far for the hawks. i’d like to see more ball movement on offense …
By Ryder
October 29, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
Thanks RICHBRAVE: I’m actually going to the first Hawks-Wiz matchup at the Phone Booth.
Hawks up by 11 and showing some heart! JJ is getting a raw deal getting two fouls early but it’s great that Atlanta’s starting off running.
Just when things are going good, baby’s crying…oh well…I got the game on the radio! One love to my Hawks familia!
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
Cheap foul on Joe. Shoulda been and and 1. Uh oh, a Flip Murray sighting.
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this
I miss Steve Smith
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
there’s my 2pts for mo! law is looking good so far.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
How bout Woody using that bench!!
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Hey Sautee, Nique aint all that bad. What a 1st qtr. When was the last time Joe left the game and we held a lead like that?
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
Well one quarter in the books. All 12 play. Score 23-23. Offense ragged. THOMAS looked good: 4 pts., 3 rbds.(2 off.), 2-2 at the foul line, 1 foul, 0 blocks, 0 steals. Team defense - what defense. Broken down off the dribble at the top of the key. Pick and roll - No rotation. No help defense. 6 strolls down the lane. If the NETS could throw it in the ocean, the WIZ would be down ten.
By HB Ando
October 29, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this
Um, I apologize for my dyslexia. I’m sure I meant Hawks: 110-96……..
Shock the world!!
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Murray! Murray! Murray! And 1!
By Blast
October 29, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
Flip Murray, did you see that? That should have a technical on Howard!
By doc
October 29, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
ando we all knew what you really meant.
By cp
October 29, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Looking good so far but we have to cut down on all these turnovers. Bench is playing well. Flip was a great signing. Hopefully they can keep it up in the second half.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
I see Craig’s still chillin in the bling bling. Can we please get rid of this guy? Somehow, Someway.
By ray
October 29, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
So I though Mo Evans would be a rebounding downgrade at the forward position. He’s got 5 boards at half-time. Now, who was it that was averaging that many a game? Uh-huh…
CP, you’re right about that. The thing is….look who’s turning the ball over so much. Bibby (figures), JJ, and Mo. Three vets. Not Acie, not Josh Smith, etc. Come on guys, get it together. We act like it’s Detroit’s defense we’re playing against.
Am I seeing what I think I’m seeing? Woody’s gone to the bench early and often? Yes! We’ll see how the second half goes, especially if the game gets tight (though I’d expect starters to be in there if it does, with the exception of Murray, who’s already proving his worth).
By Freshmaker
October 29, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Great first half for the good guys. They played some really solid D in stretches, and didn’t break when the Magic made a run halfway through Q2. Hope they can finish it out.
I wonder why they didn’t just bring back Mike Glenn to replace Steve Smith. I loved Smitty’s work, and I’m sad that he went to greener pastures. Glenn is good too though…I’d rather have him back with Rathbun than ‘Nique. Now Glenn is with Jerinovich. Ugh.
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Is Woody trying to look like Homer Simpson?
D’oh!
By ray
October 29, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Am I the only one who notices that our wonderful 2nd year center (and hopefully near future all-star PF) has twice as many assists and less-than-half as many turnovers as our rich point guard?
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Ray and he got 2 on consecutive trips.
I still say feed him every third trip. Not to try to score, just to run some inside out.
By ray
October 29, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Could be worse…could be Jurenovich and Rathbun at the same time. Oh wait, I’m feeling sick….
Man, Josh is just an absolute terror on defense. Gotta love it!
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
zaza! big fella!
By Melvin
October 29, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
They can’t stop ZaZa. They can only hope to contain him….. He’s back….
By doc
October 29, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
oh yeah ….. booo yaaah! josh ripping form the outside, zaza having his way inside. just the way we saw and planned it.
By ray
October 29, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Sautee, that’s always been a good idea. Always.
Good decision by Smith with the assist to JJ for 3. Meanwhile, he is just all over the place. In a good way, that is. Damn, he just hit a three, too.
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
We’re not shooting all that well (mostly thanks to Bibby and Mo) but we’re definitely doing better than they are. And we’re outrebounding them fairly easily. Nice to see Howard in as much foul trouble as Horford.
Our length and speed/athleticism is clearly a problem for them. Acie finally makes it on the scoreboard. Nice to see him coming in for the cold-shooting Bibby. Give the guy 20 minutes or so and see what he does. I think he’ll do well.
By Melvin
October 29, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
The Hawks are looking good thru the first 3 qts….
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Doc,
Your boy Yi is tearin’ ‘em up in Jersey. He looks comfortable there, as we thought he might. Good thing he’s not in Milwaukee right now with that damn Scott Skiles. Kid’s probably loving life right now. And he made the starting squad. No surprise. How do you keep a 7-footer with a shooting stroke and range like that on the bench, especially when he likes to throw down a good dunk every now and again? He grabs boards, too….
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
RYDER:
Well, the WIZ are proving they are AS GOOD as the NETS. Yeah. That’s a relief.!!!! Tied with 9:00 to go in the fourth. McGEE has great instincts, but man is he raw. BROWN at point. Not effective. DIXON played early, second sub tonight. Dropped a couple, but was broken down consistantly from the key on the dribble. I guess JORDAN will put in the starting 5 soon. Daniels steady, but not in much this half. STEVENSON has dropped 4 3’s to this point. BUTLER was on the cusp of a double-double at 9 and 9 to begin the 4th. Assists, blocks, tips, saved free balls. Typically ALL-STAR play. BLATCHE is trying too hard. All over the place, and ineffective. YOUNG has had a few good plays, but not enough. JAMISON hasn’t been in much this half. The D.C. club has played sporatic defense, but the vast majority is miserable. Even BUTLER was lax in the first half. The team is still allowing at will penetration into the heart of the defense and even to the rim on occasion. THOMAS has shown well, but is as overmatched as ever inside. NETS are one team that SONGAILA can be effective against, and he’s stiffened the D when he’s in. Not enough p.time in my estimation.
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
REJECTIOOOOOOOOOOON BY SMOOOOOOOOVE!
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
When we run “iso Joe” and he misses, it’s one and done. Let’s try some movement on offense.
By doc
October 29, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
thanks for the heads up ray. some interesting scores especially the knicks roaring over the heat. d’antoni era has begun.
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
Is JJ clutch or what? And that was a gutsy long jumper by Smith before the tremendous weak-side rejection on big Dwight. Be honest, you didn’t want him to take that shot. Hey, I didn’t either. Never thrilled by him going for a shot like that. Always thrilled by him making a shot like that.
But we’re breaking down out there. Bibby is not helping on defense, and we need ALL FIVE GUYS on lock-down mission when these guys are running Turkoglu as a point forward.
If it weren’t for the alley-oop pass and a guy like Dwight Howard, I SWEAR Jameer Nelson would average like, 2.1 assists per game.
I gotta say it again: JJ is a freakin’ stud.
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Bad decision by Horford. He’ll learn if we feed him.
By ray
October 29, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Sautee, definitely not enough movement. That’s a carryover problem from last year. And the ISO play is very much alive.
Amazing how the game changes so much defensively when Smith is on or off the court. Or when Bibby is…different effects though. Speaking of which, why is Bibby in there? Because he’s helping (assist, steal, making shots) or because he’s simply not turning the ball over?
By Astro Joe
October 29, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Helluva game Mr. Smith.
And as much as I loved ‘Nique the player… I miss Steve Smith the analyst.
By hawkfan
October 29, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
yall tell me wats going on, im nervous, i cant see the game cuz i dont have sportsouth on my cable up here so i keep looking at the score not knowing wats going on, hoping we will win
By Astro Joe
October 29, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
If I could offer up one little negative comment… Mark Price needs to work with our players at the free throw line. I’m not looking at the stat line, but it seems like we threw up a bunch of bricks at the charity strike tonight.
By Melvin
October 29, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Big road win tonite… We have to do a better job at the free throw line and get more movement on the offensive end.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
NETS by 10. I thought I heard BUCKHANTZ say JAMISON 4-17, and BUTLER 3-12. Nobody steps up. Not an offensive rebound that I saw in the fourth quarter. Damned few on the defensive end either. Not much NETS penetration in the fourth as outside and medium range uncontested shots were falling fairly frequently. Other than VINCE CARTER (21 points), newbies and rookies for the N.J. team. Was HAYWOOD missed.? In PALIN-speak - YOU BETCHA’. No worries HAWKS bretheren. TWO in the W column in NOVEMBER. Mark it down.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
HAWKS 1 W - 40 to go - play the WIZ 4….
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 29, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
1 down, 49 to go
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
GREAT START!
I’ll take 81 more just like it.
Hey Kirk, did Josh earn his money tonight?
By Blast
October 29, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
A win on the road over Orlando? Go Hawks!
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Wow! I cant think of 1 negative thing to say about that performance. None. Not een about Woody. Which is a miracle in itself. Great game by Smith, JJ, and FlipMo. Did’nt miss Marvin too much afterall. He problably just hurt his chances of getting an extension even more by missing the 1st game of the year.
By Sautee
October 29, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this
AJ
Good call on the FT. My wife even commented on it.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
ANDO
This will not be the last time you eat crow.
Haters Jump on the wagon now, or forever be silent.
To my Hawks family We’ve only just begun
Last but not least don’t vote because of race. Vote for the best candidate…
**Holla atcha boy, cause I’m gone…
Doc I left you a voicemail on your cell
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
chuckie:
My predict was 45. I guess yours was 50. We might be close.
RYDER:
Sold out phone-booth tonight. Upwards of 21,000 to see the WIZARDS team give a reprise of seasons ago when they were consistantly receiving lottery picks, and stinking up the court. Who can forget KWAME BROWN.?. They better break the bank and pay for a solid big or this season’s done before GIL can set foot on the hard-wood. I know everybody in the division is happy. HAWKS fans rejoice.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Bibby still looks old and slow. I thought he would look alot better this year, being healthy and all. He was hot in the 1st quarter though, but I think we are just as good with Acie in there.
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 29, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
DAMN I wish I saw that game! Unfortunately I was away from a TV and it was blacked out on League Pass online (free until Nov. 11 by the way). 27 bench points despite Marvin Williams being suspended — if we can keep that up, wow. Love the efficiency from Josh Smith too — zero turnovers, when is the last time he pulled that off?
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
te.barron:
Do you think A-IV will allow the ASG to ship BIBBY and his expiring at the ALL-STAR break.? MAYBE.? I haven’t see this year’s edition, but the B man is HIS—TOR—Y in my book before the end of this season. Too bad POLLIN couldn’t see the forest for the trees where JAMISON and ARENAS were concerned….REBUILD time was at the end of this past season.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
JSmoove is back, and he is the truth.
JJ Da Man, he took it to another level
ZaZa Nuff respect, I think He’s baaaccckkkk.
Acie mad confidence. He’s got next at the point.
Flip what more can I say top billing (Old school hip hop phrase)
Bibby defense liability… I’m not impress
Solo held his own.
Horford needs to take his time.. He’s the next Tim Duncan, but he has more passion (Dangerous)
Mo suspect defense, but he hit some big shots
Solo looked good, he’ll improve with time.
Woody Niiiiccceeee
Hawks great win, 49 to go!!!!!!
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Anybody still miss Childress? It’s Flip Mo Baby!!
By cp
October 29, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
Great win. We really need to hit our free throws. We were bad from the line tonight. We also have to cut down on the turnovers. Pachulia and Flip were big off the bench tonight. Solo also gave us some good minutes. Law looks like a different player. Bibby had the one good quarter and did pretty much nothing else but hit the free throws late in the game. Joe Johnson is quiet assasin. He will be making his 3rd straight all star appearance. It’s nice to have some guys come in from the bench and produce when a starter is struggling. Bibby was having a rough game so having Law and Flip is huge. I dont even know why Claxton travels with the team. I guess he likes to show off his nce suits and jewelry.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Rich Whatz Good,
I’ll answer that for TBarron… Bibby it will be a wrap, however this is only one regular season game.. ACtothe4 will be starting before the playoffs….
Someone said it previously in the blog.. Portland could use him.
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Richbrave, it probably depends. If we’re still in the hunt, and playing well, they’ll keep him, if not, he’ll more tham likely be moved. The guy can score in spurts, WHEN HE’S HOT, which can help any team win games, but he’s too much of a defensive liability. Idk? It’s a tough call. Hopefully Sund makes the right one. It’s just that Acie is starting to look like the player he was at Texas A$M.
By doc
October 29, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
lascho, no haters but many degrees of optimists as we all expect the team to improve. no camps. got the message lascho and agree. heading out of town early am so we will catch up later.
i hope you kept your hands on the keyboard and your mouth silent or you are diving deep into your pockets tonight, ando. oh yeah you were all hawks tonight so your bookie pays up. right?
By terrell barron
October 29, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Ok, I do have 1 negative thing to say about Woody. Why did’nt he put Morris in the game, when the game was clearly over? Did’nt even let him sniff the court. And Al and Zaza had 4 fouls a piece. I guess they just signed him to replace Solo.
By kwooden1
October 29, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
HAWKS WIN! HAWKS WIN! HAWKS WIN! I hate that I didn’t listen to the entire game, I heard a little bit of the 3rd and the last 5 mins. Stats look really good, but either way GREAT WIN by the guys!! JJ hit some big shots and JSmoove was everywhere! They closed out the game well and didn’t give into the cheap play late by the Magic. If JSmoove can play like this every night and we get the play off the bench by Zaza and Flip/Mo we’re actually dealing with a good team!
GO HAWKS!
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
MISSED your post at 6:30 t.b. Glad you caught my meaning. heh,heh.
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
RYDER:
Guess the WIZ thought it was a “W” also cause they sure mailed in the effort.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
Doc be safe on the road…
If anyone has follow the hawks over the rebuilding years, it’s obvious this team is in a different space, and there destiny is in their own hands…
This is a different team; the overall team defense was excellent, and Smoove led the way…
Banks
Holla atcha boy I have some questions about our fantasy league…
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Lacsho and t.b.:
Still got the ASG $$$$ quandry in the back of my mind, that’s all. Guys, no worries. If you could have viewed what you saw and what I saw on a split screen, you’d KNOW the HAWKS are flyin’ this season. That taste of success with BOSTON has tweaked our heros appetites for the big time. If success keeps BIBBY a HAWK consider it a done deal.
By ray
October 29, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
Alright, gotta give Bibby credit. He made a good play on that pass to Horford and attacked the basket twice. Nice draw on the Turkoglu flagrant foul. You knew Bibby was fine when he easily swished that free throw, LOL! Nice acting, here’s your Oscar. Kinda made up for that tepid shooting performance (and that 3 to 3 assist/turnover ratio).
Meanwhile, gutsy damn game by Horford, who battled big Howard to the end. That fifth foul call on Horford was BS. He straight tied Howard up and everyone knows it. Also funny (and Bob Rathbun said this too) that Howard managed to stay at just 4 fouls for so long. Hmmmm.
Anybody still wondering why Memphis offered Josh Smith $58 million and we matched? Read the stat line, haters. 17 points on 6-11 from the field, 1-2 from the arc, 4-7 on the charity stripe (c’mon Josh) 10 rebounds, 4 steals, 5 blocks….and 0 turnovers. Notice served, haters.
Still think Evans can’t rebound? He didn’t shoot well, but the defense was there. And he got 8 rebounds. Waiting to see what Marvin can do when he gets back.
Zaza turned up big off the bench. He played quite well with a solid shooting 8 points (4-7) and 8 rebounds…in 11 minutes. I really like his effort right about now. We need that type of effort/performance from him on the regular.
Big Al came through despite foul trouble with a near double double at 10 points, 9 boards. Another big key was the 4 assists.
And how about Flip coming off the bench for some offensive punch? I’ll take double figures from any bench player.
Acie didn’t show a ton, but he was solid (no turnovers) with the ball. I expect we’ll see more scoring from him soon, especially if he gets minutes in bigger blocks. If Bibby keeps shooting like this, we’ll see more of him as the season wears on. Too soon to think about that with the season only 1 game old.
Oh, and JJ is a freakin’ Stud. Had to say that again.
A good game, and nothing can be taken away from the Hawks here. We imposed our will on this team (Ando’s phrase) by putting the kabosh on Howard early on, and keeping Turkoglu and Lewis off balance all game. Lewis fouled out, and what could you possibly attribute that to, other than Josh Smith and Mo Evans? Nice work guys, and a hell of an opening statement.
The Hawks are here. And they’re ready to rumble!
By ray
October 29, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Lacsho,
EXACTLY. Josh showed himself as a leader tonight. As the second-best player on the team for sure (and in some ways equally the best player for us tonight). He changed the game on both ends of the floor and made some very sound decisions out there. I’m looking for more of that from him. Man, that block he had on Howard. If you watch Josh, you will see him measure a teammate’s opponent for a short while. Then, when he gets the tendencies and patterns down, he strikes. And they never see him coming. Incredible. 5 blocks on opening night. And we win on the road. Nice. By the way, Ando is adding some cayenne red pepper to his Crow Curry….he says it tastes better than he thought, hee hee hee…
Sautee, sorry I missed the call. I was fairly well engaged when it came, and I saw it after the usual time you close down the ranch. Hit ya up tomorrow.
Joe, nice call on the free throws..
Moving over to New Jersey, did anybody see the wonderful Sean Williams? No? Heh…
By richbrave
October 29, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
H.B., H.B. H.B.!!! Where’s a dissenting word.? Grijos. Che-e-e-rp, che-e-e-rp.!!!! Silence. Just kiddin’ my man. We all know you’re a dyed-in-the-wool HAWKS supporter.
By Samuel
October 29, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
I didn’t see or hear the game. oN THE ROAD. I GOTTA GET Satelite radio. 790 sucks. What happened?
By ant banks
October 29, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this
good win for the hawks. however, we have room for improvement. pump yo’ brakes we shot 58% from free throw, 25% from 3pt!! wtf!! if orlando had shot better than 38% from the field we would have been in trouble. 53 rebounds is off the chain!! if they do this alone, we will win 45+ games. rebounding is so important.
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
RAY
Nice recap!! We had different observations with Mo. The refs kept Howard in the game. Bibby did act his azz off, and I give him props for that move.
Rich
As I watched the Boston vs Lebron game last night. I new our bench would be the difference maker this year.. For now I’ll give Boston and Detroit 1&2, as for the rest of the east it’s up for grabs….
Peace
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 29, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
Just a couple of things from looking at the box score (as I said above, I didn’t see the game)…
I don’t know if this was a case of giving extra because of facing his former team, but if Zaza can keep getting an offensive board every two minutes (or anything close to it) he’s gonna be contending for the 6th man award before too long. It is really, really encouraging to see that kind of production on the boards especially going up against one of the leading rebounders in the league. Lord knows the Hawks need a big man to step up like that.
I gotta reiterate from above… 27 bench points without Marvin in the game is simply outstanding. Anything close to that for the season will make John Hollinger have to stuff his entire leg down his mouth, forget just his foot.
The only real “WTF” stat line is from Bibby… looks like he has picked up where he left off from last year’s playoffs. Would be nice if Acie can step up (can’t really tell if he played well or not from his stat line), because if Bibby keeps playing that way someone’s gotta push him for playing time. When everyone else is playing so efficiently it’s unacceptable to take the 2nd most shots on the team, especially as the point guard, and shoot so poorly. On the bright side, at least he got his three turnovers out of the way early and took care of the ball the rest of the way.
Holding the opponent to 36% shooting and 16% from 3, especially when that opponent starts three excellent 3-point shooters in Turkoglu, Lewis and Pietrus, is a very encouraging sign. Also great to see our bench thoroughly outplaying theirs (although I guess when JJ Redick gets the majority of your bench minutes you got some serious depth problems).
By Volman
October 29, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
What a GREAT win tonight, fellas. I was extremely proud and excited about this team… This team REALLY has a different feel about it so far..I don’t know what it is…Seemed like they shared the ball a LOT more..and it wasn’t really “Pass to Joe, and let him work”. It was nice.
Joe Johnson, What can you say? An incredible game for an All-Star. He made some HUGE shots tonight that let the air out of the crowd when they tried to get the team back into it. He’s going to have a big year, as we all know.
Bibby, I really thought it was a quiet game from Bibby, but I was glad that he shot well from inside the 3 point line.. (I’d like to see him atleast make 2 or 3 of those three’s he put up tonight..that’ll open up this offense so much more).. Overall, decent game.
Mo Evans, Boy did I jump out of my seat when Mo Evans put down that dunk on the fast break! That’s what I like to see…guys out running and finishing. Great PRODUCTIVE minutes by Mo, and he made a couple big three’s to end the Magic’s runs. I hope he brings that production and hustle off of the bench.
Smoove, I really hope he makes the All-Star team and starts to get some attention that he deserves. The blocks that he put on Howard were incredible, and what about those dunks? We all know he gives us many highlights per game, but he really did have a complete game tonight.. He defended and did all of the little things (steals, assists, blocks, rebounds).. If this team can get this type of all-star play from Smoove, WATCH OUT Eastern Conference!
Horford, kind of a quiet game, but he’s going to obviously have a tough game when he’s going up against Howard. I wish the Hawks would have gone to him some to try to work Howard, but the couple times they did it was very unsuccessful… Solid game though for Horford…
Flip, what a great game from Flip. I have heard some Hawks fans talking about how Flip just chucks up shots.. This team needs a “scorer” off of the bench like Flip. He played a masterful game tonight.. How easy did he make it look getting to the basket? And also, CAN HE TEACH MARVIN HOW TO DO THAT? Flip, please bring this kind of game off of the bench and I’ll be really happy!
Zaza, keep that fire man! It really looks like Zaza has found himself again as a Hawk. He knows his role on this team.. He’s got that fire back. He is pretty good offensively and I’d like to see the second unit go to him more often in the offense… He got a lot of “junk” points tonight… Great game though…
I would have loved to see Randolph Morris in the game… I’d like to see how he would bang around with Howard, but I guess we’ll have to wait to see him out in action. Acie has got to learn to show up on a nightly basis.. I didn’t see too much out of him but again, he did play solid for only 16 minutes.
Great win Hawks…. Oh yeah, CONGRATS to Mario West for making the team. I told him I was pulling for him at the Season Ticket holder practice and I was glad to see a fellow Tech student succeed.. I’m glad he made this team!
81 more! Go Hawks!
By rms
October 29, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Dang man, good win by the home team. It would have nice if the assists were up from our point guards but overall I was impressed, even from Woody!! Go Hawks
By Lacsho
October 29, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
Najeh In our fantasy league did you notice the statTracker had the accurate score, and our head to head was off?
By ray
October 29, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
Josh did posterize Howard on one of those dunks…Howard didn’t even bother jumping, and I don’t blame him. Meanwhile Jameer was laying on his butt on the other end of the floor…
By RaJaH
October 29, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Good win tonight Hawks!
Hopefully JJ can start get all-star caliber calls in his favor now.
By Ariose
October 29, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this
Nothing left to say, you guys pretty much covred everything….
Bibby didn’t dissapoint me really. He got a little trigger happy at one point but we’re defenetly a more fluid team with him on the floor. He stated the game hot which fueled our great start….and he played solid defense.
DEFENSE——If we keep playing like that…..we’re gonna be nice.
FlipMo=BeastMode………Childress who?
Randgolph Morris: Yeah we were up by a lot but this is the magic, they can come back like it’s nothing……Maybe in somw other game, but good move by woody.
Flip pretty much started ALL of our breaks……I still wish we had ran a little more.
INTENSITTY-we played HARD the WHOLE GAME, I can probably count on my fingers how maany games we dominated from start to finish last season.
AJ-Seemed to be playing with a chip on his shoulder……he played well.
Smoove-His Midrange Jumpshot was money, and his decision making and post moves were exellent. He held it down on defense……man this guy really worked on his game…..Most Def a PF…..but that’s just me…
All the Bigs——NASY, GRITTY, GRIMEY, TOUGH…..I like what i’m witnessing from these guys.
~Sir Links A Lot~
By Ryder
October 29, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
Thanks so much RICHBRAVE, I heard they had a chance to beat the Nets but just didn’t get off the shots.
Atlanta really played well tonight, and showed the same intensity they will need to show it all year.
By The Truth
October 29, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
One word describes the Hawks performance today, IMPRESSIVE; VERY IMPRESSIVE. I have to give credit where credit is due. So, Kudos to Woody, for motivating the players to play defense at such a high level tonight. Actually, it was the defense, rebounding and bench play that made the difference in the game’s outcome. I know it’s only one game, but as the TRUTH, I must call it the way I see it. Praise and criticism are things that are earned. One x-factor I observed from watching the game was the maturation of this still young Hawk team under pressure. Nobody tried to be a hero. Each player (who played) played their role and was effective and unselfish. The team gel in all phases of the game tonight. That is what made it such a GREAT WIN. Now, I hope the Hawks don’t get too drunk with success, because it is just one game. As Sund quoted it; don’t get too high when you win nor too low when you lose because it is a very long season.
By Najeh Davenpoop
October 30, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
Lacsho, it’s because the head to head stats only update at 3 AM (midnight Pacific where Yahoo’s servers are based) whereas StatTracker updates stats in real time.
By femhawkfan
October 30, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
I was so glad to see the Hawks get their first win of the season on the road. I think it really makes a statement. The Hawks mean business this year.
By Clyde
October 30, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this
Good win tonight. I still think our interior defense needs works though. If the Magic would have dumped it down low instead of shooting jumpers it would have been a contest. But thank the Lord for Jsmooth. Without him the Hawks’ frontline would be as soft as my girl’s legs down in Brazil.
Oh yea and Flip Murray can play.
ROLL TIDE!! LET’S GO TEXAS TECH!!!
By BA
October 30, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this
How many games last season did the Hawks come out fired up, build a substantial lead, MAINTAIN IT, and pull away at the end?
If there was a game like that, against an upper-echelon Eastern Conference team, I don’t remember it.
Everything I hoped for with this young team is coming to fruition. Woodson USED his bench effectively. Flip Murray, as an offensive player- we didn’t have anybody like that last year. Hell, Pachulia wasn’t CLOSE to this good all year long.
Joe Johnson is a legitimate star in this league. Josh Smith might turn out to be BETTER than that. Smoove, the blocks, the steals, NAILING those three’s (isn’t that the “poor shot selection” the haters were referring to)…
If Josh Smith plays like this every night, they damn well might win fifty games.
In fairness, this wasn’t the best showing for Orlando. They seemed out of synch all night.
And speaking of fairness, and in the interest of further promoting Ray’s “kindler, gentler blog”, I’ll add this:
It’s a little early to serve up H.B.’s crow casserole. After all, this could be merely one of Atlanta’s “39” wins. But I can’t shake the feeling that my boy will be in the position to be “happily wrong” this year.
Give a little credit to Sund. These signings are looking shrewd. And give Woodson credit for reigning in all of this talent and having his team ready to ball.
Now, can the Hawks outrun Philly?
(And yeah, Ray, I DID just reinterate basically all of your points! Hey, if I’m thinking along the lines of a Ga. Tech guy, I must be on the right track. Anyway, ya’ll had to know I’d be on here after THIS game…)
By MannyT
October 30, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this
Good effort for the Hawks tonight. Woody even figured out a way to get 10 players in the game.
I recall some questions over the summer about how the ASG affords to pay the current payroll.
Two insights today on this question.
First, maybe Astro Joe needs more cash for that popcorn. Maybe I will need one of those all you can eat seats once in awhile. I’ll skip food the other nights.
Second, because no one really trusts a used car dealer, the ASG got decent terms for that team loan. I would take 4% on a loan over 10 years. Better terms means better cash flow.
Clyde Would I be a good fan if instead of booing soft defense, I just yelled Brazil! ;-)
I’ll skip the waxing jokes that could go here.
BWAF
By Matt = niremetal
October 30, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this
It’s kind of non-sensical to conclude that the Hawks’ interior defense is still weak based on one game. On the road. Against the best pure center in the NBA. Howard even averaged 22/12 against Boston last year, and no one accused them of weak interior D. But we just did something the Celtics couldn’t do last year - beat the Magic in Orlando.
If the Hawks struggle with interior D against a team that isn’t the Magic, Suns, Spurs, and Rockets (at least when Yao is healthy), I’ll concede the point. But against those 3-4 teams, every team looks like it has weak interior D.
By BA
October 30, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this
That’s a SQUAD in Houston.
I thought the Hawks defense overall looked strong, Smith was an absolute beast. Horford and co. did a decent job on Howard, but that’s kind of like doing well in a car wreck. It’s all relative.
By Samuel
October 30, 2008 6:46 AM | Link to this
Too bad we didn’t have Bargnani to bang with Howard and chuck up the 3 ball though. He got off to a monster start last night. He’s the worst #1 pick in 30 years. He’s worse than Kwame brown.
So much for our undersized front line and their lack of shooting ability.
Some of you refuse to accept the fact that Bibby is the PG and leader of this team right now. We’re just a different team when he’s in charge period. You can dissect the stats all day long but the only one that matters is the W.
Great Job Woody
By chuckw/deadjournalist
October 30, 2008 7:29 AM | Link to this
rich - missed your post. i think this team, to really get the fanbase to buy-in needs a 50 win season. as good as they looked last night, orlando helped them out a lot. the magic came out flat and was never able to overcum that first quarter.
watching the game, i still have concerns about the point guard play. bibby had a few horrible turn-overs early. acie played well, but not starter well. and what the team got out of flip last night was the best case for him. he’s always been hot and cold; i just hope he can play that well for 65 games.
the final numbers don’t indicate it, because bibby and horford both got some cheap points, but without those late free throws, neither would have been in double-digits for points.
i love zaza’s play, but i still wish the team had another big enforcer off the bench. while solo looks better with some extra weight, seeing him get pushed around by howard showed the need, in my mind, for another bruising big (and that isn’t morris). remember, horford and zaza both had five fouls.
i’m in no way knocking the win, the effort, or the overall team performance. josh smith played bigger as the game went on (he went into the break with 5 and 5).
back to the point: will the team win 50? my guess is they won’t, but if they can play consistently - and that means playing through the january doldrums - i can see the team winning 47.
if they win fewer than 41, barring injury(s), the season should be a disappointment. i know a 10 game increase from last season is significant, but the time to win is now.
By doc
October 30, 2008 8:13 AM | Link to this
yeah BA it is a very huge bit early to get drunk on the kool aide and cool down the champaign. good win, when we got sluggish there were fresh faces that woody ALLOWED to play. that is going to have to be the main ingredient so he doesnt choke and change his tactics 15 games into the season like he did last year. that is what was last year, let us enjoy this year while he learns the final step to being a first class coach. we started fast last year then changed what worked and overworked the starters. will woody stay the course and the path to elevating this team? stay tuned.
By MannyT
October 30, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this
new blog up
By terrell barron
October 30, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
I really think we would be just as good with Law and Flip running the point, but what can we get for a 30 yr old point guard that misses more shots than he hits, and plays little to no defense? Flip could back up the 1 and the 2. Evans the 2 and the 3. Maybe I’m jumping the gun a little bit, but I was expecting to see the old Mike Bibby last night, and I saw nothing different than I saw last year, when everyone was hollering he was injured. Now if comes back with a 20 and 10 performance, I’ll probably change my mind, but as of today, he’s a goner in my book. No way we’ll pay him what he’ll want. I’d offer 5 mill at the most. Maybe a mid to late 1st for him or something? Sorry Bibby, I cant go another day without having anything negative to say. It’s a habit. lol!!