Hawks

By ILL-logical

December 3, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

SS: nice(and timely as well).And I see you are a GU man also. Howevere, after seeing the Pacers and ‘Blazers recently the Hawks cannot rest on their “up and coming” status long. Those teams have a ton of young talent that is well coached and seemingly cohesive.

The point is that tomorrow is not promised; the Hawks better win now while the have the opportunity.An opportunity that other similarly situated teams are equally hungry for.

By MannyT

December 3, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Sekou Unless your sports psychic also predicted a significant injury in November, I am not impressed with his prognostication. The statistical skeptic in me says—don’t take him to Vegas. If he is on track as of January 1, then he gets some credibility.

I am glad to hear that Woody decided to play match ups against the Wiz. I do wonder how much of this is him forcing other teams to deal with his talent or him back pedaling to deal with their talent. For example, if he knows the Grizz are likely to go big, does it serve him to make those Grizzly bigs run around and chase the Hawks smaller bigs. After all, the offensive threats of the Grizz start on the perimeter (Gay & Mayo), not in the post.

The cohesive unit thing is interesting, given that 5 of these players were not on this team last season…and 2 of those newcomers are in the regular rotation. I guess getting around and getting along is a key skill for guys that have long careers coming off the bench. I’ll even toss Woody some credit for this…something about nice guy karma.

I recall there were similar stories out of New Orleans last year. From Tyson Chandler’s blog after Bobby Jackson trade.

This whole team does things together off the court too. Someone may be just be like, “Yo, we’re playing cards over at my house” and everybody will go over, wives and kids too. One person will be like, “I’m going to the movies tonight,” and the next guy will say, “Alright, I’m coming too.” We spend so much time together off the court.

Samuel Sounds like there will be a Euro party in the post tonight. Don’t let it get you down.

Time for the birds to pick apart some bear tonight. I’ll be there!

BWAF

By The Truth

December 3, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Sekou I’m curious about the “D” guy you mentioned in your “NOSTRADAMUS” piece. Has he made a full season prediction yet? If not, can someone please ask him to give one. Also, ask him how long will this recession last?

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Sekou, sorry but that Zaza piece makes NO sense to me. Zaza didn’t play at all in the 4th quarter of the Raptors game, after grabbing 17 boards and playing solid defense on Bosh in the first 3 quarters. And since when does a rookie center who weighs 190 pounds and is still very, very, very raw dictate our rotation? If I just grabbed 17 boards in 3 quarters and then missed the next 5 quarters while being healthy, well, I’d be just a little miffed. Especially if I played on one shoulder over the past few games. If Woody wasn’t known to have a doghouse with frequent tenants, then maybe that “strategic decision” might be a legit rationale. But, again, if I’m Zaza… with Smith on the mend, Solo playing better and playing time in doubt, I’m thinking twice if the gift card to Nate’s Necktie Nook should be for $50 (which would allow Woody to purchase 10 ties) or $25. Oh and let’s not forget that DNP-Coaches Decision don’t look too good in a contract year.

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Manny, I agree that guy didn’t predict an injjury…..he got lucky…defenetly wouldn’t take him to vegas lol.

I’m glad Solo was actually in Woodys good graces enough to get extended PT without some other factor (Zaza’s shoulder) being the cause. Slol will be an X-Factor off the bench this season.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

AJ, Good Point, their may be more to this story than Woodson is letting on.

I thought Zaza not playing the final quater of the raptors game was one of the deciding factors in that game. At first I just supposed his shoulder was just acting up on him again…….guess not.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

I’m impressed. Going 16 for 16 on W/L sounds impressive to me.

By Craig "Speedy" Ehlo

December 3, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

Sekou -

I wanted to let your readers know of a new Hawks blog that my roommate and I started a few days ago. We’re hoping to keep it funny but have some predictions and other random analysis and insight. Please pass it along if you find it entertaining. Thanks!

Billy Knight Took My Lunch Money

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

True, but if smoove had played we defenetly would at least be 13-3 (Shoutout to James Verret lol)

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Kappy

December 3, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I have a hard time stomaching your boy D’s predictions. Really? He predicted we’d win at Orlando opening night? And AT New Orleans the next week? Seems understable now that we’ve seen New Orleans fall back to earth this season, but to predict that at the beginning of the season?

And the biggest reach was predicting the home and home loss to New Jersey. Really? He predicted that?

As a follower of the NBA, Hawks, and lines, it’s easier to pick winners based on road trips, days off, etc. So I can see where its possible for D. But to predict ALL? Color me impressed.

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

Kappy, yup and my thoughts were correct on the New Orleans matter. Their coach even said that their not the same team without Pargo……..CP3 can’t play a full 48 every night……..They should look into aquiring SS. They dort of play the same.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Ariose, if Speedy would ever get healthy (and play 10-15 consecutive games) I’m sure the Hornets would take him back.. he and CP3 were a very good combo before.

You know what think would be nice to have? One of those big-body ‘tweeners. Like a Leon Powe/Brandon Bass/Jason Maxiell type players. Not any of them specifically (as I doubt they are available) but that type of guy who brings a lot of energy, solid board work and tenacious defense. It ffels like we have a slew of shooters and could use an athletic banger.

Speaking of that kind of player, I saw that Rodney Rogers had an ATV accident and may be paralyzed. Very sad.

By Kappy

December 3, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe Couldn’t agree more on the idea of a tweener-banger. Let me add some other names: Paul Millsap, Reggie Evans, Nick Collison, Jeff Foster, Ronny Turiaf and even Mikki Moore. Reggie Evans sticks out as a guy who can add some toughness, hustle, and unselfishness to this team.

We have the expiring contracts and salary cap room to make a move for a big man.

By ray

December 3, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Damn, some of y’all just can’t get past somebody making a series of predictions about some basketball games? I’m not into predictions hardly at all, but I thought the guy, whoever he is, did a heck of a job. It’s not like he gets a valuable prize for this. Don’t hate the playa…

Astro Joe,

That is indeed very sad. I liked Rodney Rogers. Reggie Evans does remind me of him in some ways, minus some of the shooting/scoring ability that Rogers had. Detroit has a similar guy in Maxiell. Golden State has Turiaf, although I swear they do not know what to do with him. I don’t know where we’d get a guy like that. Or if/what we’d have to give up to get him.

Here’s a thought: do you want a veteran version or a rookie/young version? I ask simply because we may already have that guy. His name is Othello Hunter. But we’ll probably never know whether or not he can be that guy this season. No sir, we must glue all rooks/youngsters to the bench because it is tradition, and they cannot possibly contribute for the first two seasons or so. Hee hee….

By rms

December 3, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

I still hate Woody….POBWAF!!! Sekou, you keep talking about ZaZa and J-Smoove, but aint nobody reporting about that old sorry sucka Claxton!! When is that dude coming back? At some point whether its this season or the off-season we have to make a move and get better..much better. Adding a inside scoring presence would be nice and extending some contracts on some key players would be even better. By the way did I mention I hate Woody :)!!!!!

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

MANNY T:

And to add to the litany of former “ZARDS runnung through DETROIT lets not leave out “RIP” HAMILTON and the oft mentioned KWAME BROWN.

By Sautee

December 3, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

rms

Don’t sugar coat it, man.

Tell us how you really feel about Woody!

;-)

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

THE TRUTH:

Screw that. I want to be on a plane with this “D” dude headed to LAS VEGAS. NOSTRADAMUS is dead.! “D” rocks.

By MannyT

December 3, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Ehlo Unless your lunch money is about 6-7 or 6-8 in height, I doubt BK took it ;-)

ray If you really believe he did a heck of a job, I’ve got some statistical magic for you. Call me the math mentalist.

14, 23, and 35. No real significance yet, but I promise you I can make these look great before Monday.

And yes, I just picked them out of the air. A broken analog clock is correct twice each day down to the second (if it has a second hand.)

Not hating, just proving a point.

BWAF

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Used the link and went to “SPEEDY” EHLO’s new blog-site. Saw the picture of BK shaking down JJ for lunch-money. “MORE DOUGH” looks about right BK. I’m guessing you’ve “supersized” those “MICKEY D’s” meals already.!

By mykhalc

December 3, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

MannyT, you gotta use the ad and pop-up blockers man. you won’t be bothered them in the future. ;o)

By The Truth

December 3, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

richbrave Good chuckle. But really, I’m still suspicious of this “D” dude. He could just have been lucky on his prediction. I would really be impressed if he could do it again, before I invest.

By ray

December 3, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Manny,

I said I’m not much into predictions. I know my limitations. Which means I know better than to take on a statistical/numerical super power like you within your own realm. So whatever the trick is, I concede you the victory. I’ll listen to the point you seem to want to prove regardless. Now you know I don’t think of you as a hater. However, let me finish my own version of the phrase I started with. “Don’t hate the playa…if you ain’t playin’ the game.” Have you been playin’ the game?

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this

Ray, yeah, I was thinking about Othella too. I recall that Sekou suggested that he may be a candidate for the NBDL, but as usual, we have opted not to take advantage of that option.

Joe Smith will likely be available soon and Sund obviously has ties to the Thunder. Maybe what I am “missing” will be what Smith brings… maybe I just have forgotten his ability to score in the paint. When I think of this team this season, I mostly think about jump shooters and would like to see us score more in the paint. Again, maybe with Smith returning, we’ll get a few more easy baskets and won’t have to live/die by the 3-ball.

And if I had Ando’s huge bank account, I would challenge guys to nail the Hawks next 10 games in terms of wins/losses… but I’ve been wrapping pennies the last few nights in hopes of giving my children a few nice things under the tree. Somehow I doubt that I could get anyone to predict 10 games for a $1.25 payout.

By ray

December 3, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Astro Joe,

I can always find better ways to waste money than gambling or taking bets. Not judging those that do, I just know what I’m likely to lose at, and can find more pleasurable ways to lose it.

You’re dead on about us not using the NBDL. I don’t know why we don’t do it. I realize it’s not the same level of experience you get from playing time against other teams’ starters and bench guys….but it’s playing time. Hell, what do I know. But I think there are things about Hunter that will make him a good contributor. Let’s hope that this doesn’t end up being somebody else’s discovery…

As for Smoove, yes he gets to the hole rather well and can score inside against a lot of teams. He does take some jumpers, but he doesn’t rely on that shot, fortunately. People are talking more and more about the terror he causes on defense. One other thing he brings is an increase in fast breaks per game. He will run the break with anybody that is willing. The very sight of him making a 90-foot pass or throwing down one of those thunderous jams on the break in more than one consecutive possession is enough to make even the hardiest coaches call a quick timeout.

By Astro Joe

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

NO LIVE TV BROADCAST or RADIO in ATLANTA TONIGHT!.

Game isn’t televised locally (unless you have NBA League Pass) and 790 The Zone is broadcasting the GA Tech basketball game and will re-run the Hawks game later (probably around 10:00). So you will likely need to go to NBA.com and listen to the Grizzlies game on your PC.

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Ray, let’s hope that once Smith proves that he is healthy and in game shape (which will take a few games), that they will go ahead and assign Hunter to the NBDL. It was probably wise to have that extra body available in Smith’s absence… now they need to do what’s right for Hunter’s long-term development.

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Astro, most of Zaza’s boards either bounced right to him, or they were off of his own misses. Dont let the #’s fool ya. And what about on the defensive end? They were taking it right to Zaza. They thought twice when that 190 lb. guy was out there though.

By ant banks

December 3, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

PLEASE DON’T TELL KEN THAT WOODY MADE A SMART COACHING MOVE BY NOT PLAYING ZAZA AGAINST THE WIZ. HE WILL HAVE A FIT LOL

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

terrell, did Zaza try to date your sister or something? And the 190 pound guy I was referring to was McGee… why would we “game plan” for McGee? Maybe in a few years.. but not in his first month as a rookie (and while weighing 190 pounds).

Zaza played a very good game against Bosh and the Raptors. And when Woody pulled him, Bosh took over the game. I’m not saying that Zaza is the second coming of Hakeem… but let’s give the dude credit when he is a force on the boards… and he clearly was that night in Toronto.

By doc

December 3, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

nice to see the trust level going up on this team where they are able to talk in positive terms about their individual teammates. seems there has not been much of that in the press in the past. it shows a belief in the other guy and maybe the roles that are being determined as the season plays out.

By tongue in cheek

December 3, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Sekou, you asked what changed? Childress and B. Knight were obviously the problems. They were the same ones around when we had 13 wins, 26, 30 and 37 wins and now that they are gone, look how good we are doing!!

By The Truth

December 3, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

One obvious change is the addition of Mark Price. Last year seems like we couldn’t buy a basket. This year, we are shooting lights out. We lead the League in three point shooting %. Clearly, Mark Price as had an impact on this team.

By doc

December 3, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

truth i am sure mark would agree.

go bees!

By Ken Strickland

December 3, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

ANT BANKS-like DOC, I’ve been good, so far as Woody and the SAASG is concerned. And now you want to get me stirred up again. I’d be the happiest Hawks fan around if Woodson made more smart decisions, starting with playing Acie more and starting Solo instead of Zaza. I’d also like to see him give Hunter a chance. He seems to be the kind of player that can do a lot of damage around the basket, which would make him a bigger, taller and stronger version of Chills, without the unusual, but accurate jumpshot.

Large tall teams, like Portland, can be hard for us to match up with, especially in a halfcourt set. But if we run, we can create even bigger matchup problems for them. Woodson needs to realize, we’re bigger and stronger than any team that can match our speed and quickness, and we’re faster and quicker than any team that can match our size and strength. We should spend less time trying to match up with other teams, and spend more time creating mismatches for other teams to deal with. The Suns have been one of the NBA’s winningest teams over the last few yrs using that philosophy. Only injuries to our own Joe Johnson and Amare Staudamire prevented them from reaching the finals and possibly winning 2 NBA titles. When our starting frontline of Horford, Smoove and Marvin are on the move and running a fastbreak, no teams transition DEF can matchup to their size, speed, quickness and athleticism.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

December 3, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Astro - thanks for the head’s up on the tv/radio issue tonight.

i know when the d-league was just in the southeast the hawks’ used them. i remember donta smith being d-d out to arkansas as well.

maybe once josh smith proves healthy, they will use the d-league for gardner. with mr. speedy taking up a roster spot, sending gardner and hunter out would be have been risky with only one inactive available to play if someone twisted an ankle and was our for a game - especially given the road trip.

who is the hawks’ assigned d-league time this year, anyway? wasn’t it out west last year?

for the d-league to truly work, in my opinion, each team would need its own team, with that team within a few hours (at most) of said nba team. that way, the offensive and defensive concepts would be put in place my the d-league team to help the transition.

given the pay scale of the d-league ($13k to $25k per season for non NBA allocated players) a team would only have to shell out, at most, $250k for player salaries if they had a 10 person roster.

The Hawks would have some options for D-League cities: B’ham, Chattanooga and maybe Greenville; the most obvious of all being Gwinnett.

By Sekou K. Smith

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

I don’t know why it’s so hard to believe that there was nothing sinister going on with Zaza. Maybe I’ve seen so much of the rotation craziness the last few years that nothing really surprises me. But Zaza hasn’t scored more than four points in almost three weeks now, so if it was decided that needed a smaller and more athletic group to keep up on the scoring end, he’d be the guy sacrificed to make it happen.

He wasn’t bitter at all when I asked him about. And he said nothing was said to him regarding why he didn’t play, so he did’t take it as anything more than what it was.

By Sekou K. Smith

December 3, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

And D sent me a text message updating his predictions for the next two months and the season. He’s calling for 8-7 this month and 12-4 in January with a season record of 45-37. I guess he figures wins are going to be hard to come by over those last two and a half months (15-20 to finish things out doesn’t seem particularly inspiring, I’ll have to see what his deal is there).

But he’s aware that some of you don’t believe in his Ms Cleo skills and has put himself out there for all to smash if he’s wrong about this month and the next.

By rms

December 3, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Dang it Sekou, I dont care!! What the hell is up with that overpaid no good point guard whose last name is Claxton. Please tell me something good is coming out of this… Sorry I dont have any pictures of a POBWAF!! But if we lose tonight I am sure there will be plenty!

By HB Ando

December 3, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

Heading to the game to join doc (thanks, doc), for the festivities.

Got to admit it’s pretty weird to go to a Hawks’ game expecting a win is a foregone conclusion.

But if these Hawks are for real, then the Griz, at home, should be a no-brainer (or as I like to call it, an “astro joe”)…………..

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

ray:

Would you please go over to LEO WILLINGHAM’s blog on merger of historically black schools with white ones and tell me what you think of my take on the subject. I value you considered opinion. And I’m not being funny. I truely do value your opinion. Post there if you are so inclined.

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

A JOE:

Your 2:15 p.m. post. Ouch.!!!! ATLANTA really is a college sports town after all.!!!!

By cp

December 3, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Yea I have been complaining about our lack of use of the NBDL for the past two or three years now. If we have youngsters on the bench who are elgible to go and we don’t play them anyway, send them down there to pick up some valuable court time. Playing in the NBDL is better for them in the long run than sitting on the bench watching Woody fold his arms . I know the competition there is not great but playing every night there is better than sitting on the bench every night here.

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this

DAMM SEKOU:

I picked 45 wins - I’m not really Mr. “D” am I.? Only the SHADOW knows. NOSTRADAMUS is my guide and inspiration.

By Ed

December 3, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Has anyone seen Acie? Now I know why BK didn’t draft CP3…Woody wouldn’t have played him!

By Arts' Jokers

December 3, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Good comments about the team being tied up together. Braves have gotten rid of Mike Hampton, can Craig, formerly “Speedy” be too far behind?

By darrell starks

December 3, 2008 6:51 PM | Link to this

HOW retarted toronto raptors fired THERE COACH.GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Bernard

December 3, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

Hey what is Billy Knight up to. Have you spoken with Billy since the season started?

By terrell barron

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

Ryan Cameron is getting a little carried away. lol!! Great to hear J-Smoove’s name in the starting lineup.

By Ken Strickland

December 3, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

RICHBRAVE-I predicted the Hawks would win an additional 10gms over last yrs total based on overall team improvement. After the next 2 gms, we will have a rough 4gm road trip. After that, we can make up ground with a series of home gms.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 3, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

An and-1, 4 dimes and 2 steals before the first timeout? Certainly looks like J-Smoove is 100%.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 3, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

6 points 4 boards 5 dimes before halftime… could Josh put up a triple double in his first game back?

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

KEN:

That’s 47 right? Can’t be correct because Mr. “D”, SEKOU’s inside boy says so.

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

It’s halftime and solo hasn’t played. This guy can’t manage anything sheesh. same-ol same-ol…..against tha Grizz? come on….he better ge some non-Garbage time burn in the second half.

DAMN, Toronto just fired Sam Mitchell. I Guess they’d rather have an interim HC for the rest of a young season when they’re only 8-9? Idiots……

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Oooh! Correction, apparenntly solo played a grand total of 44 seconds in the first half…….of course that’s WAY Better….

~Sir Links A Lot~

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

HALF-TIME on the ‘ZARDS-BLAZERS game. PORTLAND up by two. WIZARDS aren’t in zombie mode, but YOUNG, SONGAILA, and McGEE are the only ones playing with the verve necessary to win. At least in the first half. BUTLER has 2. Tonight JAMISON and STEVENSON brought hammers to work on the iron they’ve been drawing in the first 24.

Is it me or is GREG ODEN walking with a limp.? Has he been injured recently or is this some residual from last year?

BTW, McGEE signed at 230, but got up to 237 on weights before the pre-season started. At the rate he’s being played, he might be down to 190 before the season’s over, but the WIZARDS expect him to fill out around 260-265 in two-three years. I wonder if that extra muscle is gonna effect his ups.

By ajw

December 3, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this

We are looking really good with Josh back. We can beat anybody with this lineup. Without him we barely hang with losing teams like the Grizzlies.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 3, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

63.6% shooting, halfway through the 3rd quarter.

Welcome back, Josh.

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

Better not blow a 26 pt lead. Down to 15.

By ray

December 3, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

RichBrave,

What’s the name of his blog? I am honored that you value my opinion on the subject. I’ll check it out as soon as I figure out which one it is, and where it can be found. Did you check the post I put out on D. Orlando Ledbetter’s blog when he asked about renewing Falcons season tix? It may have been out of place, but small spurts of inspiration often are….

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Down to 7. Wow!

By Astro Joe

December 3, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Ando, ouch, you really hurt my feelings. I guess I’ll have to call a fellow blogger and complain that you’re picking on me. Boo-hoo-hoo.

By ray

December 3, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe this game isn’t on tv. Who’s a$$ can I gripe about kicking for this?

I so wanted to watch this game, particularly with the return of J-Smoove. I have been following along with yahoosports.com, and I see Josh is up to his old tricks: filling up the stat sheet.

Another thing that sticks out: JJ and Bibby are giving quite the lesson to the young Conley and Mayo. Wooohoooo!

By ray

December 3, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Why is the game so close all of the sudden? Man, I wish I could see this one…

Youch. Slow down with the turnovers, Smoove. I see Zaza has come back in to do battle.

By Samuel

December 3, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Yea, this guy Bibby is pretty good. Let’s Trade him before he continues to turn this team and franchise into a legitimate contender.

By ajw

December 3, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

I know some of you have been wondering what Billy knight has been up to lately. Well, he has been working really hard using his little known dance skills and marketing prowess. Enjoy!

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ3oHpup-pk&eurl=http://productiveatwork.tumblr.com/post/60927134/flea-market-montgomery-its-just-like-its-just&feature=player_embedded]

By Sekou K. Smith

December 3, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Actually, I had lunch with Billy Knight and the Mad VP today Bernard. Billy said he’s got a Honey Do list a mile long, is watching plenty of NBA basketball and rooting hard for the Hawks to finish this season as strong as they started it. He’s still here in the Atlanta are and will be until something (perhaps a new job) changes that.

By Sekou K. Smith

December 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Once the Hawks got up 26 they did the inevitable “this is a blowout let’s get cute” routine and allowed these young Grizzlies, a hard-working bunch for sure, to shoot their way back into this thing.

But Zaza Pachulia made some huge plays down the stretch (along with Joe Johnson, Mike Bibby and Al Horford and the rest) as the Hawks outlasted the Grizzlies for the win.

I think it was far too much energy to expend on a 4-13 team, but the credit belongs to the Grizzlies. They forced the Hawks to play them in the second half and kept this game competitive when it shoul have been a rout.

By hawkeye

December 3, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Samuel

LOL!

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

Acie got 7 min. Wow!

By ajw

December 3, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

Oops! I posted the link text wrong! Sorry!

I know some of you have been wondering what Billy knight has been up to lately. Well, he has been working really hard using his little known dance skills and marketing prowess. Enjoy!

Check out Billy

]

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

ray:

Sorry. Go to the bottom of SPORTS BUZZ. HBCU blog.

By Ed Gray

December 3, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

Any new update on “Speedy” Claxton? Didn’t he pull a hamstring like 2 months ago? Or does he have a new injury now?

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Definitely a balanced scoring effort tonight. Joe 26pts/5assists, Bibby 20pts/10assists, Smoove 14pts/6reb/5assists, Marvin 16pts/4reb/5assists, Horford 15 pts/5reb/2blks

By Sautee

December 3, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

WOW!

Starting backcourt: 17-26 w/ 8-12 threes.

Great shooting night!

This is the Bibby we hoped we were getting last year. I’d LOVE to see this kind of game two out of every three from him.

Sure wish I could have seen it.

By terrell barron

December 3, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

5-0 with Josh Smith in the lineup.

By ray

December 3, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Sautee,

Yeah, looks like Bibby played his butt off. I’ll take 20 and 10 every now and again myself.

Samuel,

Send that to the guys who need to see it. The fans already know what the deal is….

What stands out to me about this game is the number of assists. Not a single starter had less than 4 assists, with Bibby leading the way with 10, as a pg should. THIS, my fellow hawkers is called ball movement, and it’s one of the things that makes us good. We need to continue it. Good performance, glad to have Josh back, and wish I could have seen the damn game!

Go Hawks!

By Samuel

December 3, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

EURO Post players: 5-11 FG ,13 reb, 12pts combined. Thank God for Zaza.

Analysis: Mitchell firing not a surprise By David Aldridge, TNT Analyst Posted Dec 3 2008 8:21PM

But it was always clear that Colangelo and Mitchell had differing views on Toronto’s personnel and on how to best utilize it.

One area of conflict was the development of forward Andrea Bargnani, whom Colangelo chose first overall in the 2006 draft. Colangelo had to press Mitchell to play the rookie the following season. Mitchell said that he couldn’t reward Bargnani with minutes while he struggled with his defense, but Colangelo and Mitchell ultimately reached a kind of agreement.

EURO POST PLAYERS=COACH KILLERS

By Khao$

December 3, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Sekou…how was Josh?

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Sekou, Reading the play-by-play on NBA.com it looks like the bench came in and really stunk it up so bad that the starters had to come back in and finish the game.

It’s funny because this is exactly what happend when we played the Grizzlies last season. I thought for sure with the bench we have now this wouldn’t happen again. Guess I was wrong…..our bench still has some work to do…

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Khao$

December 3, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Sekou…what was your take on Josh’s first game back?

By richbrave

December 3, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

SAMUEL:

Right on. FIRE BIBBY.

By Samuel

December 3, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Yea Ariose,

Since some here gave Marvin the nickname “Duck”. I’m about to give Acie one. How about Goose,as in “Egg”.

By happyhawk

December 3, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

gotta love mike…i don’t care about his salary. he plays his butt off when we needed it. 8 clutch pts is good. it seems he’s starting to return into his old form (the old mike bibby). i expect more good games from him. i just hope i didn’t just jinxed him. GO HAWKS!

By hawkeye

December 3, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

i want to see more pick and roll plays by bibby and horford. its really fun to watch.

By Sekou K. Smith

December 3, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Josh looked fine guys. He wasn’t going crazy or anything and he didn’t challenge shots the way we’re used to seeing, but I think he was trying to be cautious his first game back and I also think he was a bit winded at times.

The real test is to see how he feels in the morning. Because he’ll need his track shoes against the Knicks. They’re going to get up and down the floor and the undersized bigs they play are going to be active and eager to test Josh around the rim.

By cp

December 3, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

T

By cp

December 3, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

This game wasn’t even on league pass. Well from the boxscore we had balance scoring.

Not really shocked by the Mitchel firing. The fans had been really complaining about him and after they got blowed out the other game, I figured it wouldn’t be too long before he was gone.

By E. G.

December 3, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this

The Hawks need to learn from the Cleveland Cavaliers. When Lebron James and company get a lead, they keep building on that lead, even when the bench comes in. The Cleveland Cavaliers have a killer instinct that the Hawks fail to assume. The Cleveland Cavalier’s coach is using his bench; however, Woodson will not use his bench. The Cavaliers team is getting better and better because the entire team is getting more playing time, and they are putting away sub 500 teams while the Hawks struggle and let sub 500 teams get back into the game. I blame this on coaching. What do you think guys!!!!!

By E. G.

December 3, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

The Cavaliers are better than the Hawks because they know how to get a lead and put sub 500 teams away, even when they use their bend during garbage time. The Hawks don’t have the Cavaliers’ killer instinct. In addition, I am tired of hearing Woodson say that he will be satisfied just to see the Hawks play 500 ball on the road when they are capable of playing better that 500 ball on the road. Woodson’s rare usage of the bench and low expectations is going to hurt this Hawks team.

By BA

December 3, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

No offense, Sekou Smith- but I don’t think anybody in their right mind is “looking forward” to testing Josh Smith under the rim!

Unless, of course, they’ve never seen him on TV. Like tonight, when you couldn’t see the game on the ‘ole boob tube. Or listen to it on the radio.

A winning NBA team in “black hollywood”, without a broadcast available of any kind. Shameful.

Hey doc, Ray, or any other of the liar’s table contigent that has any interest, what of this Vasquez trade for the Braves? A good move?

By Ariose

December 3, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

E.G- Let’s wait until December 13th before we decide if te Cavaliers are indeed better than the Atlanta Hawks….

~Sir Links A Lot~

By richbrave

December 4, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

BA:

Solid #3 starter. Not a top of the rotation guy from his past experience. But B. COX always liked him when he was young with the EXPOS. Got to see alot of him then. Probably followed his career since. I think he’s behind that move. And TURNER FIELD may help with his homer ratio as he’s a gopher-ball pitcher at times. I see his HR’s allowed and ERA shrinking as a BRAVE. A good first start on the pitching. Still need BURNETT or PEAVY at the top of the rotation. The club is going all in for BURNETT since TOWERS, the GM at SAN DIEGO jerked us around on the PEAVY deal.

By doc

December 4, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

ba, josh contested and altered shots tonight, fun to see him back but he had a tumble and hope he didnt aggravate the ankle. 10 point win where josh wasnt in game at the end and jj with less than 40 minutes so i guess it is all good. too bad they werent able to close it out early like they did against the raptors. enjoyed the game with your bud ando sitting in my illusionary box seats.

terrible crowd tonight so black outs dont help get folks into the seats, that is for sure.

as far as the braves trade it looks like the JV trade gets them an arm that can slow the erosion of its bullpen that has been waaaaay overused by cox the past two or three years. wonder if cox will make vasquez into a sub 200 inning pitcher by being captain hook? i dont expect him to be more than a stop gap and at a price that is (relatively) affordable until hudson gets back and hanson shows up sooner rather than later if they cant pull the trigger on peavy or get burnett. right now i think these guys are pretenders no matter what they do unless frenchy makes a come back, they find a left fielder, get a legit number one starter and can cope with knowing chipper is good for only 130 games and 20 homers a year max. i am not a buyer of much more than respectability next year at this point.

honestly, i dont think cox brought much more than complacency to the team last year. seems he has forgotten how to truly manage games to make a difference. discipline in the field is awful to watch as they made some high school errors mentally. frankly. it is hard to watch as fundamentals are botched so frequently and that is coaching especially when they were so good at it, don’t know what has happened there.

what are your thoughts? you like it or not, how about your buddy steve finley and his ideas?

By doc

December 4, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

and ba an oh yeah to get a center fielder of professional quality. tall order, no?

By HB Ando

December 4, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

Dang, Astro, you may be the first member of the blog to cry about an off-hand comment. Didn’t figure I would hurt your feelings, since my posts usually make you yawn. I think you should call any of the bloggers that you’ve made friends with, over the last 4 years, to share you’re feelings.

Oh, you don’t have any……….

On to something more pertinent than Joe’s thin skin:

Again, thanks to doc for providing a very cool angle on the festivities (and always good to spend half-time with jhan and his crew, talking Hawks and then some).

Like I said, pre-game, it was strange going to a Hawks’ game expecting an automatic win.

And there we were, up by 26 late in the third quarter. One quarter later we’re up by six.

And maybe this is really what highlights what has changed here, in Atlanta. These are the games where we used to be the Griz. This is where we clawed our way to a plausible run, only to fail.

As doc pointed out, this is a lead that we had a couple of years ago, going into the 4th quarter (neither of us could remember the exact game, but jhan might, as we were with him that night), where we were up 21 (I think it was the Spurs) at the end of the 3rd, and I predicted we would lose.

doc asked, “no prediction that we’ll blow this lead?”

And I said, “no, this isn’t the same team, at all”.

No doubt we’re a better team with Bibby.

No doubt he’s giving 100% effort, in a contract year.

No doubt, in my mind, that the ASG is between a rock and a hard place, regarding how much he makes, and how limited the improved product has impacted the overall revenues.

I know it was the Griz, but the actual number of attendees had to be a good 5K to 7K under the average home attendance.

The economy continues to impact every corner of our society, and the Hawks are feeling it too, despite the best product in a decade. Proof will be in the pudding, as the season progresses, and financial pressures grow. An insurance settlement for Speedy could change everything.

Nice to see Josh Smith back.

He does, in fact, make a huge difference in the intensity level on the court. And these Hawks are, at their very best, a blue collar team; reliant on effort and hustle. If they forget that, at any given time, they will quickly be reminded with a losing streak.

Can’t say I’m surprised by Sam Mitchell’s firing. i was struck, watching our road game in Toronto, by the thought that he was showing worse than Woody, as it related to managing his rotations.

When you look at Mitchell being the NBA coach of the year, a mere two years ago, it’s a reminder of how much rope Woody has had extended by this ownership group, during his tenure.

Expectations are b***…..

By BA

December 4, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

Might want to take ‘ole ando to more games, doc- seems like he’s good for luck.

I like the trade for Vazquez. But it’s going to take a lot more. The good thing is, Wren is charging out of the gate with a sense of urgency. I think they’ll get Burnett. Frenchy will rebound- you heard it here first. McCann will be better. But pitching (or lack thereof) will be the issue.

In Finley’s day, Vazquez WAS an ace!

-sorry for all the baseball junk Mr. Smith…please don’t suspend me-

By BA

December 4, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

My guess is they’re penciling in Schafer in CF, doc- and looking for a big stick to patrol left.

By blue hawk

December 4, 2008 4:33 AM | Link to this

Want to see chemistry in action?

28 assists from the starting five.

Bibby 10, Joe 4, Hoffa 4 (good for a center), Marv 5 and Smoove 5.

The guys are finding each other and most importantly trusting each other.

Keep it up Hawks!

By Samuel

December 4, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this

So much for the great theory of Ando and Clyde that you need those magical 7 footers in your lineup. Toronto starts three, count em, three and are stinking up the joint right now.

By ray

December 4, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this

Samuel,

If Euro post players are coach killers, then expect three of the NBA’s top coaches to be fired any minute now. Yeah, that’s right: Gregg Poppovich (Fabricio Oberto), Jerry Sloan (Mehmet Okur, Kosta Koufus, and Andrei Kirilenko), and Phil Jackson (Pau Gasol). Maybe Mike Brown better kiss his job goodbye. After all, he’s got Zydrunas Ilgauskas playing center for him. And he’s backed by Anderson Varejao, who is of South American descent.

What you saw with Sam Mitchell was a simple and commonplace case of “fundamental and philosophical” differences between GM and coach. Happens all the time. Ya boy Billy Knight tried to fire Ya boy Woody for reasons that were probably somewhat similar, only no Euro post player involved. Oh wait….maybe he tried to fire him because of Zaza Pachulia. Yeah, that must be it.

Man, please….don’t make me call this what it really is…

By doc

December 4, 2008 8:00 AM | Link to this

samuel seems to be working for the nets many others and the lakers have the potential to do it as well. for the raptors it may be about the coaching or chemistry or even health of JON.

BA, agree, they do have a long way to go and maybe further than fans want to admit. what worries me even if they bring in burnett is they are still unstable up the middle. weak defensive catcher, obviously they are not totally sold on the ss, 2b combo and hoping a rookie cf can bounce back as a minor league drug offender is not what great teams are made of built on pitching.

again respectability is what i am looking for first. right now they remind me of some of those teams i grew up on with aaron in the lineup and top cat or pat jarvis as the pitchers of note. if everyone has a career year then we are in good shape but how often does that type of lightening strike?

By Samuel

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

Don’t think Frabricio will have much impact for the Spurs this year and Jackson would be wize not too depend on Gasol too much in crunch time. He got PUNKED by the likes of Powe and Brown during the finals.Their fate is in the hands of Bynum and That Man, Kobe. Likewise with Z and V in Cleveland. They won’t get it done, depending on the Euro Postmen. Mark it down.

Utah will always be bridesmaids.

By richbrave

December 4, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

ray:

Liked your LEDBETTER post. Going after the same mind-set I am I see.

By Raptors Fan in TO

December 4, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

See Sam Mitchell’s firing already got mentioned. Just want to respond to a couple of points:

1) Ariose: I beg to differ, the Raps would have been idiots to not take action. I agree that it might have been a little early to judge Mitchell at 8-9, but after watching Denver demolish us by 39 points —- which, by the way, happened solely because the Raps completely tanked from midway through the first quarter (ask Nugget fans who saw it!) it was clear Mitchell lost the faith of his players.

You guys saw it for yourself in Atl —- our team has lost all motivation to defend the perimeter, drive the basket and even get out-rebounded with O’Neal in the lineup. Time for change, and the interim guy (Jay Triano) is not a hack.

1) Most talk about Bargnani being a sticking point for Mitchell and Colangelo is bull. Mitchell never hesitated to play Bargnani in his rookie year, when he was scoring in bunches and (along with the improved play of Calderon) helped propel the Raps to a division title. It was his sophomore year that Bargs played like a bust, and no one complained when he was nailed to the bench.

All I can say is, I’d guess that if Delfino stayed in Toronto, Mitchell might still have a job. Oh well, to all you Woody critics (if you are still out there), you now have a local guy available to speculate on!

By doc

December 4, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

sam, seems like the additon of gasol took the lakers pretty farlast yar without bynum and there big line up of gasol, bynum and oden is all 6’11” and imposing. essentially, the euro guy and oden are both going inside and outside. filthy, eh? with oden not starting. lakers and celts unimpeded to the finals if healthy. lakers win, celts lose as gasol has his way is my prediciton. heh heh ok, got caarried away with last comment.

raptor fan, not a mitchell fan, quick and decisive move by the gm.

By Mac-Town

December 4, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

**Honestly, how do you guys see the hawks as a team now though? Are Good? Still Mediocre? I’m looking at the schedule now, The stretch of games that started on November 14th with the Nets up until this coming up Friday Vs. New York looks to be BY FAR the EASIEST part of our schedule.

On This 11-game stretch, we are so far 5-5. With the 5 wins coming against Milwaukee,Memphis,Charlotte and Washington twice, I’m not impressed. I know people will say well Josh Smith was out, but I’m still not impressed. Why? Because even with Smith in there we have seemed to have trouble with letting people basically WALK to the hole for easy lay ups, and as displayed by Indiana and New Jersey, mediocre teams will handle us as long as we allow this.

Why does this happen? Is it something wrong with the coaching techniques? Players not doing their jobs on the defensive end? A Little Bit of Both?

I LOVE smoove’s game but forget him coming back, I’m still worried about the fact that teams WALK into our paint with ease for layups. If we dont stop that we will turn into the “same ol hawks” QUICK.

This Texas road trip coming up and away game @ Miami will tell us alot about where our team is headed.**

By Melvin

December 4, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Doc, I will be at the Cavs game. What about you?

By Rob

December 4, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

did D predict a 26 point lead last night? or did D predict losing that lead? 8-7 in December is a no-brainer. but D may not get that< how about 6-9? if D says 12-4 for Jan- i’ll get back on the bandwagon. i just dont see it.

By terrell barron

December 4, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

BA, I listented to the game online on wrbo Memphis.

By Astro Joe

December 4, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Mac-Town, Smith missed both NJ games and the Indy one too. Yes, we do have problems with penetrating PGs. Every team has flaws and that is a huge one for us. Smith clearly will help (and so will an improving Solo). The teams that are best able to defend penetrating PGs are the ones that can stay in front of that PG on the perimeter (like Rondo in Boston). But I disagree that playing 10 of 16 games on the road (with Smith missing 12 of the first 16) does not give us an indication of where this team is headed. We played 75% of our games without our best interior defender and we are on pace for a 50-win season. Last year we won 12 road games, and we have already won 5 (while playing .500 so far on the road). Road wins include games against Orlando & New Orleans. Excuse me if I’m still filled with hopeandexcitement.

By ray

December 4, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Raptors Fan in TO, good point brought up here, though I have to wonder how much of that was Mitchell not having an issue, and how much was Colangelo exerting his influence. Either way, it cannot be ignored that Bargnani was scoring in bunches, as you said.

1) Most talk about Bargnani being a sticking point for Mitchell and Colangelo is bull. Mitchell never hesitated to play Bargnani in his rookie year, when he was scoring in bunches and (along with the improved play of Calderon) helped propel the Raps to a division title. It was his sophomore year that Bargs played like a bust, and no one complained when he was nailed to the bench.

Samuel,

Nobody said that anybody was relying on their Euro centers to win championships. In fact, that was never brought up. YOU said verbatim…Euro post players=coach killers. A very simple statement that left you wide open. I simply pointed out the inaccuracy of the statement. Now you’re changing the argument. Heh….Everybody knows that the Cavs and Lakers depend on two huge superstars. Neither has delivered yet. I suppose you’ll blame the Euro centers for all of that. Funny…didn’t San Antonio win a title with Nesterovic in 2005, where he started 70 games at center, playing 25.5 mpg? I’m just sayin’….Oh wait, I’m wrong. It was all Tim Duncan. And nevermind those two Euros in the backcourt…

I like how you shift the focus from your simple/senseless statement to the level of involvement of the Euro center. One could argue that Bargnani has no more of a prominent role than Fabricio Oberto…

I agree that Utah will remain a bridesmaid while other teams have superior size and personnel that match up favorably against them. That, and they lack defensive capability at certain points.

By doc

December 4, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

hey melvin. nope i’ll be out of town or actually coming back into town from a conference that night but too late to get to the game. poor planning on my part. enjoy it.

By richbrave

December 4, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

ray:

Well? Go to inRich.com and read the two articles in today’s on VIRGINIA UNION.

By JerryWest

December 4, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

Now that Flip is done with his typical early season surge, he will have a hard time to mesh with Smoove, because, a playoff bound team can’t have more than one out of control player in the court at the same time.

Thus, I think, Flip will only get minutes when both JJ & Smoove sits. Those ball hogging minutes behind Bibby should come to an end immediately.

By Ariose

December 4, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

Raptors Fan in TO, I see your point, a change was needed, and of course it’s easier to get rid of a coach that it is to get rid of fifteen players lol. They tuned Mitchell out before the season started lol.

Jay Triano, is a pretty good coach, and he has WAY more talent to work with on this team than he ever has on his Canadian National teams(sorry nash/dalmebert lol). Hopefully he’ll take this team back to the baisics and teach them how to defend.

….And I completely agree with you on you views about Carlos Delfino. That guy is a stud and I was sorely P I S S E D that the Hawks Brass didn’t make a run at him before he went to Europe. The Hawks Still do not have a pure shooter on the roster(Ex: Peja, VladRad, Shasa, Korver) and he defenetly could have helped us…….they are especially important during deep postseason runs. And Delfino Was on FIRE during the Olympics.

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By JerryWest

December 4, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

The torrid 3 point shooting is bailing out the Hawks so far.

By Ariose

December 4, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

JerryWest, I think Flip actually thrived because of Smoove. Josh provides our team with so many more fastbreak oppourtunities because of his shot blocking/shot Altering ability. Flip is most deadly in transition…..so is Mo and when you have that many athletes running the break it’s almost impossible to stop. Pay too much attention to smoove and FlipMo, Marvin, Joe, Al Solo will burn you…Our fastbreak forces teams to pick their poisin.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By doc

December 4, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

ray at some point you have to be aware of the old bait and switch, no?

By jhan

December 4, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

Good to see doc & ando at the game last night. The crowd couldn’t have been larger than 8000. There were no lines coming or going.

The bench played like crap last night. Evans/Murray couldn’t shoot. Acie law looked completely lost on the floor. He was being routinely burned by Conley & Lowry on defense. I’ve come to the conclusion that he is NOT a point guard.

When Law is playing his directive should be to penetrate & score. If you can draw a double team & dish that’s icing on the cake. He should be the offensive focus playing with solid rebounders & an outside shooter. He just doesn’t fit with Woody’s offense (or lack thereof).

By Bertie

December 4, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Ray: Dead on with the ball movement comment. This roster is deadly when they share the ball. I see the team developing the “killer instinct” (E.G.) as the season goes on.

Sekou: All Star Voting. For the first time in a very long long time the Hawks complete starting line-up is in the All-Star ballot. With the way Bibby and Marvin are playing my vote went to all 5 Hawks without any reservations. Its still too early, but when I reviewed the ballot I felt that all 5 Hawks have a legitimate shot (some longer than others) at making the team. I encourage all Hawks fans, especially the SS’s bloggers, to vote early and often for these young Hawks. The easiest way to vote is through NBA.COM, register and vote as many times as you can (the only limit is one ballot per day).

By Raptors fan in TO

December 4, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

Ariose: LOL! No apologies needed to Nash and Dalembert —- they wouldn’t go anywhere near the Canadian national team right now! Yes, as bad as the Raps have played, they will always have more talent that the other basketball team up here :) Delfino would have been a great addition to the Hawks, though I think everyone balked at the amount of money that Russian team threw at him. He was our Josh Childress!

Ray: perhaps it was Colangelo’s influence to have Sam play Bargnani more. They started winning when he did, so if Colangelo had something to do with that, it worked!

Doc: Cool. I’m a Mitchell fan, but with no TJ Ford on the team I don’t think he was the right fit any more.

So let’s get other people’s opinions… would any of you want Sam Mitchell, the Georgia native, to take over as Hawks coach? (I know what the answer might be, seeing as the Hawks are winning)

By Astro Joe

December 4, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

Raps fan, I have to admit that I don’t know enough about what Mitchell brings to the table to have an opinion. I know that he is “old school” but we already have that. I know that he tried the “Phoenix offense” and moved away from it when it didn’t work. I did like his willingness to try something new and his flexibility to change directions for the good of the team. Woody has changed some of his habits (like playing more guys on the bench) but seems inflexible in other areas (2 fouls in the 1st quarter and you sit until the 3rd quarter). If Mitchell is an upgrade, the question is how much of an upgrade? I’d rather gamble on someone like Eddie Jordan, because not only would his offense be perfect for this roster but I’m guessing that he will emphasize defense the next time he has a job (or at least hire a true defensive guru).

By JerryWest

December 4, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/statistics?stat=nbarebound&qual=true&qual=true&sort=totreb&league=nba&split=0&season=2009&seasontype=2&seasontype=2&avg=48&pos=all

I just moved the top 200 rebounders’ offensive rebounds & mpg to excel, and Zaza is #1 in Offensive Rebound/48 Minutes. Howard is #9.

By JerryWest

December 4, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Ariose,

Anyone who can run fast can be deadly on transition. How is Flip better at that than most of our young guns? Flip’s best utilized when our offense has been shut down, and we need something created on the fly.

By Samuel

December 4, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this

Absolutely Amazing,

Our coach has us tied for 4th in the Conference and we’re still talking about replacing him with two guys who just got FIRED. WOW!! You guys take Hatn to another level.

By doc

December 4, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

no samuel it seems like the toronto guy is trying to either stir up trouble or give mitchell away. heh heh

By Melvin

December 4, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Doc, I guess I will have to catch you at another game. I know I will be there for the weekend swing with Celtics & Lakers in March. I may do the Rockets on 12/27.

Ando, I think the team you were referring to was Utah when the Hawks squander a 21 pt lead going into the 4th. I even remember you making the reference how Sloan rested his starters in the 3rd to make a 4th quarter run….

By Sautee

December 4, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Samuel

About this:

So much for the great theory of Ando and Clyde that you need those magical 7 footers in your lineup. Toronto starts three, count em, three and are stinking up the joint right now.

Toronto is 8-9, but they are stinking up the joint.

But, hey, the Lakers start three (close to) seven footers and what’s their record? Oh yeah, 15-2. Magical, I guess. You conveniently left that out.

Last year we were 37-45 (a worse percentage than the Raptors have now) and we were (according to you) the second best team in the league. Hey, maybe, just maybe, your record doesn’t necessarily show how good you are. “Cause you SURELY didn’t think we were “stinking up the joint” last year.

Why should we give any credence to your “stinking up the joint” comment?

By Astro Joe

December 4, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

Samuel, good point. I withdraw my 2:58 post. It should read… “Why would we replace the eventual 08-09 coach of the year”? Thanks for setting me straight.

I wonder if Theus makes it to New Year’s Day?

By Raptors fan in TO

December 4, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

DOC: lol! Not trying to stir the pot - hard to do when my team is stinking up the joint! Can’t give Mitchell away either —- he’s already left! :-)

By I MUS WRITE

December 4, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

Hey Ariose-The Knicks and Marvin just left my work……Drum Roll Please

Ariose goes off on me lol

Samuel is right for once lol….Why the hell would we entertain replacing Woody with 2 guy’s who had similar talent and worst overall records …….Amazing

By jhan

December 4, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Woody get’s a pass from me until this season is complete. I have no complaints with the Hawks record right now.

If we end up not making the playoffs this year, and injuries are not a factor, than his butt should be gone. If we continue to show progress & have a good showing in the playoffs then he stays.

Would anyone swap frontlines with LA? Smith, Horford & Marvin for Gasol, Bynum & Odom

I don’t know if that would be a good trade for us or not.

By ray

December 4, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Doc, I was counting on it…

By hawkfan

December 4, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

jhan no way i would do that trade especially not right now, our team is gelling with each other and no reason to break the chemistry plus all i can say right now is that the hawks are 5-0 when josh smith is in the lineup playing, and i dont want this season to be messed up especially having our best start since 97’-98’ season, 11-6 is still good at least its better than being 6-11, which us hawks fans are used to seeing plus the eastern conference this year so far is tougher, celtics just can’t lose and the cavs keep beating other teams by 30+ points on any given night, also orlando who was below us is now above us in our division, we need to get a few more wins (hopefully in a row) to pass the pistons and be 4th in the conference, but untill then as always, GO HAWKS!!!

By richbrave

December 4, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

ray:

Since you didn’t respond, I assume you didn’t care for my take on the subject. I had a hard time finding the articles myself on-line. One is by columnist MICHAEL PAUL WILLIAMS. He says that UNION is not marketing itself properly and is becoming insular to its detriment. The other comments on VIRGINIA UNION’s PRESIDENT quitting the position and citing current financial problems and the near-term economic outlook - bleak. Both speak directly to the commentary I posted yesterday under the SPORTS BUZZ - HBSU’s merger with white schools. You know - the GEORGIA legislators proposal.

I’d say the response is mostly negative, but there were a few well-reasoned responses which generally agreed things needed to change although not necessarily through my proposal.

You know its funny I picked RICHMOND and UNION as an example. I wasn’t being serious in that specific instance about any merger. It was more toward a commonality of both schools having a BAPTIST foundation, and that we all have more in common than we sometimes realize. I guess that light-bulb hasn’t gone off in some people’s minds no matter their skin-tone.

Anyway, really freaky that the very next day two articles appear in the paper about UNION’s problems. Still would appreciate your take on the matter especially if you disagree. You appear to be a well-reasoned regular, and I would care to know what you think.

Apologies to the blog for taking this space and for those who could care less about this particular subject as it does not directly relate to the HAWKS.

BTW somebody said the team has a tough string of games coming up. No worries. They are going to come out of these games with a plus ledger. Definitely not like the WIZARD(s). I am the all-powerful and munificant “D” and like NOSTRADAMUS I know all and tell all. Later.

By Lacsho

December 4, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Whatz Good Fellas,

I’m back in Jersey for 7 weeks, and I’ll be catching the games on the internet. I found several sites that show the games live on the net. While listening to the game last night, it was disappointing to hear us blow a huge lead, but I was happy to get the win. A win is a win, and I’m glad smoove is back.

Najeh,Banks,Biglots,AaronB

Get at me on the fantasy tip; I’m about to run away with this!!!!

I’m dominating my fantasy football league; I’m getting ready for the playoffs…

Peace Hawks Fam!!!!

By Clyde

December 4, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this

Samuel Who had the better record last year Toronto or Atlanta? This is early in the season and Toronto will get it together.

You just get ready for our game with the Lakers. We will need a 7-footer against Bynum and Gasol.

Let me put this another way. If you want to contend for a championship you need atleast one 7-footer in your lineup. The only thing the Hawks are trying to do this season is make the playoffs.

In Alabama our goal is to win a championship every year.

ROLL TIDE!!!!!!!!!!

By richbrave

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

PROPS to MR. EARL STAFFORD of this city.

By Ariose

December 4, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

JerryWest, True lol. And LAST season, our offense got broken down A LOT (JJ Iso). Now we seem to be more fluid, but when we play the better defenses in the leauge, we are going toneed his pentration. Also it was neve a point of contention from me to say that Flip Is or isn’t better than our young guys.

I see your point about Flip being out of control at times but the Hawks knew what he brought to the table when we aquired. Last year our bench scoring was almost non existant……and without flip this year it probably would be too. On other rosters flip may or may not be a cancer, but on our roster, with the lack of scoring punch that we have coming off the bench Having Flip coming in jacking up so many shots isn’t necessarily a bad thing. I thinks Sund knew that as well.

I Also have to disagree with you on you poin that Flip cannot effectively play with smoove. Simply because in the first four games when smoove was healthy, Flip was used in crunch time with the starters to finish off the games. He’ll be fine. He and Mo are both averaging 10ppg (That’s like have two childresses off the bench…..sorry for the analogyguys). Seven guys averaging double figures is exellent, zaza isn’t too far behiend with 6ppg.

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

December 4, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this

I MUS WRITE, Come on stop playin’. They didn’t Really stop by your job. Yuo’re suuch a kidder LOL!……….seriously did they? Arrggh!!!

J/K, You must work for turner broadcasting or something……even though the NBA.com headquaters jut recently came to GA, that’s the only place I can think of where players visit when they come into town. (Like O.J and Rudy were in the studio the other night).

I MUS, You’re killing us over here lol. The fans are ready to riot hehehe…..

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By Samuel

December 4, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Clyde,

One championship in the last 30 years. I wouldn’t exactly call that a dynasty.

I’ve been saying since last year that plenty of teams had a better record than the Hawks but we ended the season the 2nd best team in the league, have I not.

We have contunued to ride that Wave as I predicted with Zero 7 footers. We don’t need em now. We’re doing fine with our 6’10s and 6’11 1/2s and our famous BK Swingmen.

By Samuel

December 4, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

And O yea, our washed up point guard and coach that can’t coach. Teams must be giving us the games.

By richbrave

December 4, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

Right on SAMMY:

Fire BIBBY.

By rms

December 4, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Fire Bibby….Yeah right Fire Woodson before you do that!!!! POBWAF..

By ES

December 4, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

I don’t know if I fully buy into Woody’s story of not playing Pachulia. Why would he not play Pachulia in limited minutes as opposed to none, especially after he was coming off a 17 rebound performance? I put more detailed thoughts of this on my blog.

• ES

By HB Ando

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

Melvin, thanks for clarifying, as neither of us could remember who it was that night.

Joe, you’re filled (full) of something other than “hopeandexcitement”. But this isn’t news to anyone who’ve been around for awhile…….

Sam, you can spin it anyway you want, but when this season ends, the Hawks will have come up short against any of several teams who present legitimate 7-footers in their regular rotation.

Ariose, I have to disagree with a comment you made. Mike Bibby is clearly a legitimate 3-point threat for these Hawks. And he truly fits in with JJ, in the back court, as JJ will always bring more dimes than just about any 2 in the league, while Bibby will always be more of a “shoot first” PG. He used to have a great pull-up jumper, off the dribble. He doesn’t seem to have the mobility for that aspect of his game anymore. But he is thriving as a ‘catch-and-shoot’ guard, playing off of JJ. It never ceases to amaze me, in all the “big 3” professional sports, how well guys play when they’re in a contract year…………

Not only did the box score highlight a huge disparity in “team assists”, but the ball movement was glaringly obvious, watching from the seats.

Josh Smith IS the X factor. I could pull my usual, and expend 500 words expounding. But if you don’t understand what that means, an extra 500 words isn’t going to change much for you.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

Ando, I cannot argue with your views about Bibby, I agree he’s defenetly a shooter. But he is the PG and part of his job is to facilitate(on occasion lol). I meant somone whose sole poupose for being in the NBA is to shoot lol….Like Peja…

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By mykhalc

December 5, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

Ariose, good points about FLIP and MO. FLIP will be fine IMHO and will make a BIG difference as the year plays out. havin’ 2 cats that can flat out get their own shots is a BIG improvement over last year. (DOC, i ain’t hatin’ on CHILS with that statement LOL)

By mykhalc

December 5, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

It never ceases to amaze me, in all the “big 3” professional sports, how well guys play when they’re in a contract year…………

ANDO, amazin’ how it is when they aren’t playin’ hurt either!!! just sayin’…

BIBBY simply does what it takes for THIS team to win. he’s about team, always has been…contract year or not!!!

By HB Ando

December 5, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

Anybody else see Hollinger’s ‘worst records after 19 games’ article? Kind of funny that the only player who was the highest scorer on TWO of those teams was Antoine Walker. And, also of humorous note, Mike Woodson was the only guy to be both the highest scorer of one of those teams AND the head coach of another.

Most funny is that, somewhere (still Minnesota?) Antoine Walker is still certain that he’s one of the best players in the NBA………

By doc

December 5, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

myk, flip has already lost the handle more times than chills did the whole last season, beyond that he can really ball and misfire as well. terrible night for mo last night with a huge unchallenged air ball and an offer on 7(5 3’s) last night. know they help but so would chills as he prowled the base line for easy baskets and still was respectable from the three point line. dont think he had the green light that the vets have even though flip is beginning to wear thin for me with his ball handling and poor shooting and no overt lock down defense. still early in the season and maybe he can move beyond his slump.

ando, i think your bud bk was on the kansas team and the gm for the same teams that were mentioned for woody if memory serves me. one more thing you can add to your bk anti-resume.

By BA

December 5, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this

Just read that article (the Harrington) ando- and I was just thinking, as hard as it is for folks to give Billy Knight credit, they’re going to HATE giving Antoine Freakin’ Walker any credit! Yech.

Jhan, (if I may), I would NOT do that trade. Though it’s an intriguing idea. Guess that shows what a homer I am. Plus ando probably already knows six ways to tell me how basg couldn’t afford it!

Oh, and the Ariose thing- you’re both right. Bibby IS a critical element on this team, but the fact is that (like Ray and I discussed last week) JOHNSON is our point guard. He facilitates, for himself, and the wings, AND Bibby. Joe is the only player on our team (other than Bibby, occasionally) that can make his own shot at the drop of a hat.

The addition of Bibby has kept teams honest, they can’t double The Basketball Player with Bibby on the left wing. He’s the Mike Miller shooter that Sekou Smith told us we needed to stretch the floor.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

Ando. I just looked at it on ESPN.com

Yeah it is funny. Bad look for woody and not a sign of things to come lol.

Now for antione Walker……no words need be spoken on his behalf lol.

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 5, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this

“Kind of funny that the only player who was the highest scorer on TWO of those teams was Antoine Walker.”

Haha I thought the EXACT same thing when I read that article too.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 5, 2008 1:18 AM | Link to this

“Najeh,Banks,Biglots,AaronB

Get at me on the fantasy tip; I’m about to run away with this!!!!”

Y’all gotta watch your backs… my team is finally getting healthy, Redd and Ginobili are back, and once Chris Kaman gets over his foot problem and starts pulling down those boards again I’m gonna be right up there at the top. I’m beating whoever is #2 in that league right now.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 5, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

“Would anyone swap frontlines with LA? Smith, Horford & Marvin for Gasol, Bynum & Odom”

If I was only concerned about this year, with no concern about the future, then yeah probably, because their front line is more experienced and more polished offensively. But with the future in mind, I’d keep ours solely because ours has three young players who probably still haven’t reached their potential, whereas Bynum’s the only one on their front line who is still developing. Clearly Bynum as a 7-footer is harder to find than any of the players we have now, but it doesn’t change the fact that our group has a lot more unrealized potential.

Plus, that line doesn’t start together — Odom’s a bench player right now. If Phil Jackson doesn’t think they mesh well enough together to start all of them at once, how good are they really? As much as the Hawks may have problems with players like Horford playing out of position, I don’t think our front court players are ever out of their element as much as Odom seems to be starting at SF with Gasol and Bynum up front.

By BA

December 5, 2008 1:54 AM | Link to this

Charles Barkley calls Mike Bibby “the best shooting point guard in the last seven years”.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

BA, yup…mike didn’t do too much talking thouth lol….trying to kee the Hawks a secret eh…..I like it.

I bet Barkley, C-Webb, Kenny, E-Snow, and Payton got to the Hawks games in their spare time.

Now They Know, thats why theres so much love from the TNT guys…

BTW, What Did C-Webb say about Bibby on the Radio? They were talking about that and giving C-Webb a hard tme about it.

By Samuel

December 5, 2008 6:44 AM | Link to this

Ando,

You’re comming around.

By mykhalc

December 5, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

DOC, as you said, bottom line is, it’s VERY early in the season. FLIP will deliver a lot more positives for this team than negatives despite his current slump IMHO.

By doc

December 5, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

myk, be at the game tonight with ya boy fretless bass man sautee. let me know if you come back into town to do a game, would be glad to share the seat next to me with you.

as far as flip …. will monitor the situation closely, heh heh.

By I MUS WRITE

December 5, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Well whata you know- Najeh Davenpoop or should I say jacko is back from the Falcons blog….Black or white naw black n blue from the elbows and jabs lol. Dam man you wuz really getting the bussiness over there I mean really hittng below the belt. Welcome back to civilization my man…..everybody over here walks upright.

Ahm- no way in hell I trade our front line for LA’s… Marvin is better than Odom right now, Smoove over Gasol, Horford and Bynum cancell each other out and with the exception of Bynum those guys are right at that 30 yo mark… no thanx Now i would do horford for bynum straight up …o yeah in a heartbeat. could you imagine our front court with Bynum Smoove and Marvin…..

Ariose -i wuz serious yesterday…. Ny boiz are sum cool catz -lil nate is funny as hell he reminds me of money mayweather…u know napoleon complex

heres a trade that would help us alot

Kris Kaman for ZAZA/Speedy2nd rounder 09

They have alot of bigs in clipper land these days and I dont see Zach,camby ,Kaman all getting serious minutes….if not Kaman then Camby for the same players.

this would give us a good up and coming center and we would still have solo as a backup. Big line up: JJ,Marvin,Smoove,Horford,Kaman

Other line up: Bibby,JJ,Marvin,Smoove,Kaman

By ant banks

December 5, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

HAPPY B-DAY J-SMOOVE!!! may you light ‘em up for fity (Fifty) tonight.

PooP slow yo’ row on that fantasy league!! jus’ a quarter away thru the season. calm down!!

By hawkfan

December 5, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

BA, Charles Barkley didn’t say that watched the video again, it was kenny smith, but yea to me c-webb was more excited to see bibby than bibby was to see him, idk, get a win for j-smoove’s b-day

By ant banks

December 5, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

I.Mus are these changes that you think that the hawks will make by the trade deadline.

does anyone think that we will make any trades? i think that we should keep bibby and see that 14mil drop off our own books next yr. we should have about 18mil in cap space plus 2 draft picks.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

I Mus, I knew you were serious lol.

Ant, yup Smoove is 23 today. and he has 801 blocks on the season making him the yongest player to 800 blocks shaq did it at 24 years and 9 days of age.

BTW, when Kenny Smith said “mike you shouda hear what C-Webb said about you before you walked in” he was just joking. C-Webb was like “Y’all gon’ make mike hurt me before the show is over.”

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

I Mus, Now that you mention it, Nate Does remind me of Mayweathewr LOL!

BTW, Is Nate playing tonight? I know he’s been injured for the last couple of games.

also, Was marvin there the same time that the knicks were?…….not that I care or anything……just curious ;-)

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By I MUS WRITE

December 5, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Ant -I was playing fantasy GM is all. I would like to get Kaman though he has a solid game.

Ariose - I dont think Nate is playing -he said the groin is getting better so I took that as a no for tonights game.

Does anybody here remember a kid by the name of Robert Whaley- 6’10 type PF that commited to Mizzou. about 7 years ago..

I was talking with David Lee about this dude and he said the guy had Amare type talent but got caught up with legal trouble….. DAM What a shame -6’10 270 with super hops — If i had that size during my playing days,Im pretty sure Im a 1st rounder….Well maybe lol

Theres another one for the list….Vick, Oj,Plaxico, Whaley -Dam

Yall have got to see OJ cry’n in the court room “must see Tv”..youtube

What a loser… How dumb do you have to be to get aquitted for murder then write a book titled “What if I did it”

What if you get out of our lives for the next 6 years. Gawd I wanna throw up

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

I Mus, Are you referring to This Guy?

~(SalimFan) Sir Links A Lot~

By ant banks

December 5, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Ariose don’t forget that shaq did 2 yrs at LSU LOVE SHAQ UNIVERSITY. if he had come into the league at 18 he may have done the same or better.

By I MUS WRITE

December 5, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

The king of links strikes again…… Yeah thats him-his numbers stink tho. i guess he never reached his potential,reminds me of a certain big man glued to our bench right now…..DAM

O well u gentelmen have a nice evening,quitting time,I’ll have a double shot of grey goose with grapefruit juice shaken not stirred…….

By Sautee

December 5, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

It looks like so far, we’re content to just run and shoot with the Knicks.

We need some D.

By Sautee

December 5, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Horford should go for 20+ tonight if we’ll just keep feeding him.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Woodson has ONLY played seven players tonight. He is so stupid. At least play Solo, he can run and gun with those guys. Our top seven are going to be exausted for the game tomorrow.

Dallas is the easist of all the texas teams to beat. We can’t afford to loose that game……especially due to fatiuge.

By Sautee

December 5, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Ariose

Exactly!

I somewhat understand not using ZaZa, but why not Solo or even Hunter?

Actually Zaza just came in. That’s 8.

By Ariose

December 5, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this

we are SERIOUSLY playing down to our level of competition…..this is pathetic….what is this a playground game?

By ray

December 5, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this

RichBrave,

Sorry I took so long to get back to you. I read your comment on that blog, and I liked your take. It’s not a popular one, as you said. But then, is a view like that ever popular? Let me tell you something: it’s still obvious today that too many people don’t want to get past…well, the past. They don’t want a better future. They want to do and be the very things they have despised for so long. They don’t want integration of any kind. Having said that, one must always examine the why vs. the how. And then examine the question: which is better (or worse)- forcing it to happen (for the wrong or misguided reasons), or trying to help it happen for the right reasons? And what are the right reasons? After all, what is the true goal here, and is it a good one? Furthermore, is that good goal the goal of those who can make/help it happen? I think that it is in the hearts of some, but not all. And in saying so, sometimes osmosis and side effect are better and truer than the best intentions of direct action. But what do I know…I didn’t sleep at a Holiday Inn last night. One thing is for certain. Too many of my brethren can’t get out of their own way.

Onto basketball….

Looks like a shootout tonight. Flip gets a chance to get his groove back against a Knicks team that seems downright allergic to defense.

Oddly enough, Bibby and JJ aren’t shooting that well, but our frontline is putting the hurt on them.

Where is our DEFENSE? Horford should have 20 already. Give him the damn ball!

Heh. 14 points and 6 boards from J-Smoove in just under 20 minutes. I love that kid….

a little defense please….

By Sekou K. Smith

December 5, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

NEW BLOG UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Astro Joe

December 5, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

Marvin is almost too disciplined. In a game like tonight, it’s great because he is one of the few Hawks who is playing within himself and isn’t trying to play like a Knick. He’s trying to play like a Hawk… what a concept.

Smith looks really exhasuted, which is to be expected. Too bad Woody doesn’t think that Solo could contribute in this particular game. Seems like a good game considering the pace.