Hawks

By MannyT

December 21, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

I did not see the turn coming this much after that playoff series. I guess we will have to rename the Hawks and the Falcons as the Atlanta Phoenix.

The Hawks just have to keep it rolling as they still have lots of games to play. While it looks like they are in a better position to survive an injury, those things can still take a toll on their regular season record.

I hope they blow my 44 win prediction out of the water.

BWAF

By 2nd

December 21, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

2nd

By AJW

December 21, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Didn’t expect the here this soon?

Are you kidding me? It has taken a very long time to get to this point.

This is finally a very good team that is winning games with control. I always feel like this team has a chance in any game now. Can’t remember ever feelin that way about the Hawks.

By doc

December 22, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

careful what you say there sekou about our rise to prominence. i said something similar earlier in the day and they said it wasnt kosher. there are some lurking folks that say we cant begin to change our expectations even when it is becoming apparent there may be something special happening. they may come to get you, funny, i even used similar terms to your NOW. yes the future has finally come and it is NOW.

we shouldnt underestimate how huge it was to beat the pistons. they have beat on us like a bully step brother without any conscience. i am glad that streak may be behind us. one might even say it is similar to the yoke my bees threw off themselves with paul johnson at the helm against CMR. yeah, first the yellow jackets rise up unexpectedly and break the seven year hold by the dogs. then the falcons who could be division champs with a first round bye week this time next week. now you sekou are echoing what i said in the last post . look out folks, we as hawks fans might be legitimately headed to a four seed and end up a first round host. is the world still spinning or has it stopped?

By Star of the Zanarkand Abes!

December 22, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

Things are looking up in this town!

Get all (or most) of our birds in the postseason, and LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!

By rms

December 22, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

We can really make a statement by putting a nice long streak together by winning out the rest of our home games and maybe even winning those road games at the Pacers and whoever else we play. I hate the rotation but at least we are winning! Merry Christmas Sekou!!

By Matt = niremetal

December 22, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

No, I did not expect to see this. I was one of the bigger optimists for the Hawks for the last year and change, and even I figured they’d be at around .500 come New Year’s. Now, even if they drop all the remaining games between now and the beginning of ‘09, they’ll be 3 games above .500.

That said…a part of me still is nervous. We might be headed for a 4/5 seed in the East, but a part of me is waiting for the other shoe to drop. For now, it’s looking damned fine. I saw the Hawks playing in DC last month, and they looked damned good. Hopefully, I’ll see them again this Saturday in ATL while I’m home for the holidays. Regardless of whether I do or don’t, though…damn, the next 4 months will be interesting!

By The Truth

December 22, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the Hawks for this win and Bibby in particular for staying RED HOT the whole game. As stated in previous blogs, when he is hot, he is a game changer.

Since I am in a festive mood with the holidays approaching as I am about to travel, I want to wish all you Hawk Bloggers a MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY YEAR!!!

By Gypsyjoe

December 22, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Sekou,

Merry Xmas to you and all Hawk fans. Loving the season so far. Just keep it going Guys. I just wish that we could start playing more of our bench guys. We are going to need them some time this season, PEACE

By ant banks

December 22, 2008 3:38 AM | Link to this

no, i don’t think that anyone saw this comin’. funny thing about it, i don’t know what to attribute the winnin’ to. the only thing that changed was we shipped out salim, chills, billy knight and brought in randmo, flip, mo evans, and gardner and sund. WTF??

who woulda thought that the addition of these guys would equate to us bein’ 17-10 and 4th place in the east?

you can put your fingers on the celts success, as well cleveland’s but you can’t with the hawks.

is it marvin’s ability to hit three’s?

is it a healthy bibby?

what was our formula for success? what did we do, so that other teams can look at us and say “hey, we need to do what the hawks did?”

By Mookie blaylock

December 22, 2008 4:46 AM | Link to this

Any fool could see the hawks were poised to contend this year after taking the world champion Celtics to 7 games…

Detroit’s downgrade of Billups for Iverson cemented Atlanta as the 4 seed out of the East…

By TheAntiMe

December 22, 2008 5:59 AM | Link to this

Way to go, Hawks! Atlanta is for the Birds!

By some sense

December 22, 2008 7:28 AM | Link to this

Gotta luv the enthusiasm and response. The Woody bashers have crawled back under their rocks. This team can be in every game.

By Sekou K. Smith

December 22, 2008 7:30 AM | Link to this

I guess I’m no fool Mookie, because while I predicted 45 wins this year, I had no idea they’d start the season this well.

And the things that really startling to me is the way the Hawks are winning against quality teams without even playing lights out basketball every night.

That, perhaps more than anything, is what’s really striking about what they are doing. They’re winning while not at their absolute best, which was hardly ever the case in the previous four seasons.

By Clyde

December 22, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this

FIRE WOODY

By Willie Coyote

December 22, 2008 8:25 AM | Link to this

I predicted that they’d win 47ish games so I am not surprised they are doing well. With the early schedule they had, I was shocked they started 6-0 (and then went 0-4).

Marvin has been under control and consistent all year. I would like him to be a little more assertive at times and slice to the basket more to give Joe an option when the offense stagnates. Other than that, he just hits his shots and if they aren’t falling, he makes an effort to go inside. When Horford was out, he made a concerted effort to pick up the rebounding slack and when Josh was out, he picked up his scoring. Whatever the Hawks lack one night, he is making an effort to provide that. That type of attitude is what winning is all about.

By Tiger Woo

December 22, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this

Don’t under-estimate the impact of the Hawks playoff experience last year - taking the eventual NBA champion Celtics to 7 games. That series game the Hawks a lot of confidence that they can compete with any team in the league - gave them the motivation to work extra hard over the off-season to come back ready and focused this year. Adding some new veteran pieces in Flip and Mo was huge as well. Actually, the Hawks record could be even better if J-Smoove doesn’t get injured and the Celtics don’t win the 2 nail-biters.

Clyde - you can’t possibly fire Woody now - you need to put that to rest for now, my man.

By Tiger Woo

December 22, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Money or not, I think J-Chill regrets his decision to leave the Hawks and play in Europe. I watched him play in the EuroLeague over the weekend - he looks like he’s bored to death and out of his element over there. You can’t tell me he doesn’t wish he was part of what the Hawks are doing this year.

By Da Real Real

December 22, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

No Clyde I doubt that’s going to happen. I can’t do nothing but smile about my Hawks right now. I can remember back when this slide began for the Hawks (when we made that playoff promise) all the way up to now how much flack I was catching from my boys for sticking with my home team. It ain’t fun to get clowned on but I’d always say eventually I would be the one smiling and laughing. I got to do it a bit last year in the playoffs and now…you can really see the maturity of this team and all that talent and athleticism finally starting to grow to what we expect it to be.

I’ll be a bit careful because I can recall last season headed into Christmas that we were winning, but came out flat at the beginning of the new year. This year’s Hawks is different though, there’s something different about our Hawks and I’m loving it. I still believe that the Hawks are at least the number three, but possibly number two team in the east (putting records aside). The only two teams that I think could beat us in a series would be the Celtics and the Cavs….but I think we’d give the Cavs a run for their money and have a great shot at winning. Its a different day in Atlanta because we can now expect to WIN. I’m going to go ahead and say goodbye to Loserville

By ILL-logical

December 22, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

Congrats to all the Birds and Bees for your achievments to date. As the immortal Sam Cooke once said..”A change is going to come” I still have some nits: Is the current rash of NBA firings that is clogging up the head and assistant coaching ranks as well as the tv commentators jobs influencing some of the decisions being made by the current incumbant head coach?

40+ minutes a night for starters who have inuries/playing hurt could be be a factor later on down the road(Any Bobby”Blue” Bland fans out there?)

Speaking of the blues, do you think Coach Curry will get any Holiday love from AI this year?

By ray

December 22, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Saw this coming? Not me. I was just glad to have gotten at least one key element back to the team. Hard to make any positive prediction when you weren’t sure what your team would look like.

Woody being fired is a joke at the moment. A bad joke at that. I do believe that has pretty much been established. Which is why I don’t understand the need for a continued argument, nay *demand for an answer, regarding who his replacement should be. Anybody who wishes to pursue this nonsensical argument at *this point should seek out those who are pushing for his exit, then call them by name and engage them. Of course, it’s much easier to simply throw it out there for the sake of illiciting a reaction. Whatever. I’m still waiting on an answer from that dark, dank corner on who Josh Smith’s replacement should be. If only one worked so hard at finding that answer as they do at clawing futilely against other people’s opinions. I guess even miracles aren’t limitless…

Ant Banks,

Those were some good points/questions about the team’s formula for success. Like you say, it’s hard to gauge. Despite our inconsistency in some areas, we still have won close to twice as many as we’ve lost. Our swarming, harassing defense has much to do with it. Hitting outside shots at key times is also a big factor. Perhaps it is our ability to suddenly turn it on at either end, although that’s not something you want to be relying on when you’re not exactly a veteran team just yet. Obviously it’s a combination of the above and more, but as you say….hard to get a fix on it because it changes. And lately, Marvin has been more impressive going to the basket, and foregoing the long bomb, though he can certainly hit it.

Da Real Real, it’s a great feeling isn’t it? I feel the same way about the Falcons, and talk about being dragged through the mud as a fan of that franchise…

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

I’ve been saying since last year’s playoff series that we ended the season the second best team in the league.

We are very close to that Right Now

We can take any team in the NBA to seven games right now. All of a sudden the bar has been raised from: making the playoffs, to winning a first round series, to now making the Eastern Conference Finals. Yea, I said it.

WOODY=COY

By ray

December 22, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

The Truth, RIGHT BACK AT YA!!

By ray

December 22, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Samuel,

That’s a bold prediction. However, if we were to make it to the east finals, you’d get your wish- Woody would just about have to be named COY. Maybe we’ll petition somebody to have a mini-plaque made up, you having been by far his most ardent supporter.

Of course, according to certain sources, you are dumb for thinking this way, and should not be allowed to have an opinion of your own. But they won’t call your name and engage you on said subject. I’m not quite as boldly optimistic as you are, but at least you have the balls to have your own opinion (instead of having it shaped by what you hear on the radio from former players), and stand up for what you believe it. That beats the dog mess out of existing only to try and bash the beliefs of others…

By Jason

December 22, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

I am so stoked about this season. Our first goal should be to get homecourt in the first round of the playoffs. Second goal should be to win a series and the third goal should be to beat the darn Celtics in the semis!

This Hawks team is very deserving of Atlanta’s support.

GO HAWKS!

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

I’m looking back at the many posts that I missed.

I’m still blowen away at the negativism here. People here still questioning Woody as a coach. Give me a break.

You either have to say that BK was an absolute genius in drafting players that need no coaching or that our Head coach is responsible for developing the youngest team in the league into one of the best. Which is it.

Yall want ot give credit to anybody but the man in charge. The assistants are what they are assistants. They can help but they don’t have the responsibility or the pressure of making the ultimate descision. If they were that good they’d have a Head coaching job. There’s one open every other week.

Ando, wake up man. Bibby is here to stay. Acie lovers, he’ll get minutes when that washed up point guard cools off and that aint happening right now.

Heat Check. Bibby’s on Fi.

By A town Dogs

December 22, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Would you please get off of mike woodsons jock. Hes just not that good of a coach. Defintely billy knight was a better gm than mike is a coach. It takes the man five years to get to a winning record for cying out loud that aint coach of the year. The season is maybe a third of the way over anyway and they dont give out the awards until way later you jock clinger.

By HOME GROWN aka E.J.

December 22, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

First, I want to say Happy Holidays to all of the bloggers. Have a safe and happy holidays season.

Secondly, the first time I blogged I said that I thought the hawks would win 45-50 games and would come out 4th or 5th in the East. At the start of the season, i thought that we would miss JCHILL, and that would effect the chemistry. I thought we had a good team, but I thought that JCHILL was the glue of the sqaud. Now AL does some and so does FlipMO. So the great start I didn’t see, but I thought that we would be good. TigerWoo, I wish someone could hook JCHILL up to lie detector test and really ask him if he made the best choice. Is the money really worth what he has now. How is he doing over seas anyway? Is he running the league?

By ray

December 22, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Word is that Felton could be traded to Golden State for Brandon Wright or Anthony Randolph. Interesting, seeing as how Augustin and Felton have done moderately well in the backcourt together. However, that’s a very small backcourt (unwise for any real length of time).

Golden State continues to search for a pg, so that’s on tap. If I were Jordan and the crew, I’d jump on it (as long as the rest of the details of the trade were amenable). Especially if Larry Brown’s going to stick around. It’s obvious he likes Augustin more than Felton. And it’s obvious why. Both of those forwards would be good for a defense that’s struggling. They can both rebound. And they are both in Nellie’s doghouse…

Since some talk of trading Acie Law, would the Warriors be interested in delaying the dividends of acquiring a young pg? Or is he not ready enough to contribute for them? Would we be interested in Wright or Randolph (or is that even a fair trade for either team)? Better yet, would any acquisition get playing time? Heh…

By Aaron

December 22, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

If we continue to play defense at this level winning will always be possible without Joe having to put up 30. We can afford to have so-so offensive numbers when we hold a Detroit or a Cleveland to under 90. Great to see after all thats happened the past 10 years. Would love to see Acie do a little more and another Big wouldn’t hurt. I’m just hoping to see Boston in the playoffs. I want another shot at em.

By Melvin

December 22, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

RAY, although I would hate to see Acie go. I may be entice to make that trade but I think both of those guys are duplicates of what we already have in Josh and Marvin. Unless one of them start using the magic cream to put on some weight (BALCO style) to play the 5 spot. Now that I think about it, I guess either would be good off the bench to sub for Josh or Marvin. However, that would leave us bare at the pg spot say if Bibby or Flip gets injuried. Unless Speedy would come out of retirement at that time. Maybe GS would throw in Marcus Williams as well to sweeten the deal…

By happyhawk

December 22, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

it’s a good win for the hawks. it was awesome watching mike draining those long bombs. it’s fun watching him play way he’s on fire. though not seeing our bench players play quite disappointed me. woody needs to give these guys some significant minutes. he needs to ACT NOW!!!! cause i’m sure that it’ll come to hunt us in the playoffs where i think the team with the deeper bench usually prevails. yeah we have a solid starting 5 but we can’t expect them to play their best game everynight. we should learn from our mistakes last playoffs. we need our bench if we’re planning to move into 2nd round.

By BrittishAnger

December 22, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Yes, we are playing very well for a subpar team…God only knows why the other teams in our conference refuse to do the same…The only reason we’re subpar is that post presence. Get me a trio of centers like Boston had against us, and we’ll wilt like a chamberlain’s rose in a steam chamber. Good to see us going back to our bench and using them, that’s what they’re there for. As soon as we can dominate the post proficiently, I’ll agree to the renaissance….for now, let’s just enjoy the afterglow and get some waffles….

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

Ray,

Nellie wouldn’t want Acie. He already has one lefty/slasher who can’t shoot in M. Williams. Wright is a good athlete but can’t shoot either. I like Randolph. He probably will develop but with the Ellis situation, GS needs to try to salvage some wins NOW

Unless we can bring is an Allstar caliber player. I don’t see where he’ll get any minutes. I say, let’s just roll with what we got and see where it takes us. It’s working pretty dam_ good right now. Why mess with a good thing. Wouldn’t you agree?

By MannyT

December 22, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this

Chills made the best financial choice. He wouldn’t get that money in the NBA. As far as the excitement of being on a successful NBA team, he will have to hope that works out in the future. He can opt out and come back next season if he believes that the money isn’t worth the hassle of the differences of playing in Europe.

WoodyFan aka Samuel I covered your deal on the prior blog. Sure I’ll give Woody some credit, but that doesn’t mean I have to trust him to do the best for the long run…and your boy Mark Stein noted that some folks in the west are doing as well as Woody with some significant injury challenges.

Throwing a bone to kirknga y’all may find interviews that Calvin Murphy did with Josh back in March and July interesting.

In the meantime here’s your holiday cheer that should have been played at yesterday’s game.

BWAF

By Ken Strickland

December 22, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

During training camp I saw the possibility of us doing even better than we’ve done so far. I stated how it was not inconceivable for them to win 50gms, which was the players goal. But because of who we have as HC, I wasn’t convinced it would happen.

Woodson’s OFF scheme doesn’t permit our halfcourt OFF to be very efficient, which is why we have so little ball movement and so much ball hogging and one on one play. If we routinely used our speed, quickness and athleticism to get easy transition baskets, developed and used our bench liberally, and reduced the mins of our starters, we’d be ahead of where we are right now.

IF ANYONE THINKS COMPETENT COACHING, ATTITUDES BETWEEN PLAYERS AND THAT COACH, AND TRUST, DOESN’T HAVE A DRASTIC IMPACT OF A TEAM, JUST LOOK AT THE FALCONS UNDER HC’s MORA AND PETRINO, THEN COMPARE THEM TO THIS YRS FALCONS UNDER HC SMITH. UNTIL WOODSON AND HIS LIMITATIONS ARE GONE, THIS TEAM WILL CONTINUE TO UNDERACHIEVE. AND YES, I SAID THEY ARE UNDERACHIEVING.

By O'brien

December 22, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

I am pleasantly surprised by our 17-10 record so far. And we havent played our best basket ball yet either. for example, imagine if Mo Evans starts making his 3ptrs consistently (and finishes at the rim better), or if Flip plays under control more consistently? The sky is the limit, and I think the Hawks can finish 3rd or 4th in the east.

However, two things that bother me. 1) JJ still averages 40 minutes per game (only one minute per game less than last year). I am worried that as the season winds down, he will get tired and struggle (we saw what happened last year down the stretch). 2) Acie not getting consistent PT. Woody said last year he did not do a good job of bringing Acie along (because the playoffs were on the line), and that he would do a better job this year. Acie had a great preseason, but still gets no love from Woody.

By KeithEdmundson

December 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Gotta hand it to you Ray; you are looking to add more depth to the roster. Now’s a good time to see who is available, especially with Golden State because things there and in Clipper-ville aren’t going so well. Fire Woody; not now, won’t happen…that’s the past and he like all the players he started with have paid their dues and have enough lumps not to be reminded time and again. This team has a presence about them. They may still have some bad streaks, but all in all, they aren’t depending on one guy to lead like JJ has had to in the past.
The scoring dependencies are improving as well. We do need continued hot streaks from Marvin and Bibby, but they don’t have to be on every night. Whether we can beat an Orlando or a Detroit in a 7 game is nothing to worry about for the moment. Way too much will change before that time comes. I think we are better than Orlando though and have said it all year. We could essentially vie for a top 4 slot, but that could also be a bad spot to be in as well. Get to 2 or 3 and you might have the advantage needed should we slip up a game or 2. All in all, an exciting brand and a consistent brand of basketball being played, finally!

By TJ

December 22, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I’m a Hawks fan in New Orleans. I’m a Hornets fan also, but when the Hawks played them here, I rooted for them, just because. This was during their undefeated start…it was at that game that I saw them at their prime - that I saw a different team, even from that Boston series.

They held CP3’s team to 78 points, and the dagger three to seal the win, made by of all people, Paul’s 1st round counterpart, Marvin Williams. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him as active on the boards as he’s been lately. He’s one of the reasons they’re this good now; one of many…

they’re not totally back to where they were during that streak. They’re close though. The tell-tale sign isn’t how they beat the likes of the Pistons, but the likes of the Thunder tomorrow night. Acie’s minutes should be a good barometer of that. He gets more than 10, the Hawks blew them out…even so, i’m just hoping this won’t happen. LOL Geaux Hawks!

By doc

December 22, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

sekou, from what i have noticed is the level of defensive intensity is greater this year to make up the differece. a second huge factor is marvin has been doing sooooo many things right to help his team. his defense has been superb, he has attacked the basket the way josh cant because of his injury, played defnse and rebounded or has contested the rebounds by poking it out to others if he cant get to it. his smarts is beginning to show and his basketball IQ rating is going up.

yes josh is favoring the ankle. one can tell it when he comes down on it wrong and he has to collect himself to make sure it is intact after major spills. give him time and allow him to work on a different more horizontal plane for a while. it will pay off in the end.

i just dont like the idea of getting rid of acie unless a better or equal point comes back. we need three in case one goes down. we are stuck if we bring in another forward in the mode of bk’s type. without a point as well. didnt we say we had enough of them?

we are now quite sure of the fact that speedy is going down the road to retirement and insurance money payback as they dot the i’s and cross their t’s. i guess if anything definitive came out of the town hall that was it. that also means there is more money to keep bibby with in the end which is important to this club’s fiscal stability. in other words speedy is not in the picture to be a third choice in the discussion. now folks get out and see some games.

samuel, you are correct in saying we need folks to lay off the woody monster for a while, at least until we stop winning with an intact roster. only problem is some folks while saying the same thing say the tiger cant change its stripes as it is cheating when you try to do just that or hadnt you noticed? betwixt and between.

thanks to both kirk and manny t for the heads up on what is out there to learn about our squad and maybe others in the league. i am always looking to find a broader take on things and that will be one more thing to ponder. again thanks manny t for providing the link, i will check it out when i have some free time and thanks to kirk for passing it along as it sounds intriguing.

enjoyed seeing you manny t and look forward to seeing you again after your safe travels of the holiday.

By ant banks

December 22, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

o brien calm down. a 3 seed in the east? baring any injuries on any team i don’t see that happening. i still see clev, orlando, and boston as better teams than us, so i am happy with our 4th seed.

ken as much as i hate to i have to agree with you. i think that the woody is not playin’ this correctly. he is burnin’ jj up in minutes. there is no way that jj can go this hard thru june, assumin’ we make it that far.

manny t chills has got to be sick right now, like tiki barber was when the giants won a ring as soon as he left. wow!! i don’t think that we have th room to bring chills back. what can we get in a trade for him. i am not sure that i want him back now. chemistry is paramount and we have chemistry now

By Tiger Woo

December 22, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

E.J.

In the EuroLeague game I watched, J-Chill wasn’t even the man on that team - some other guy dropped about 30 - J-Chill got some of his usual garbage points - still hasn’t improved on that jump shot much.

By I MUS WRITE

December 22, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Good win for us yesterday,I was really impressed with our Defense holding these guyz under 80 points

For the luv of gawd, get an offensive minded assistant in here ASAP…..

JJ almost blew the game for us late dribbling like crazy until the shot clock is expiring and forcing up shots - I mean come on now, ISO Joe is the best we can come up with late in a game

Play to win - whass with this hold the ball crap…I dont know if that was JJ or Coach X….It was a stupid idea none the less

Flip- ???? I like the way he scores but thats about it. He is getting ripped every other possesion and to often dribbles into traffic and leaves his feet with no where to go…TURNOVER

Flip is not a dam point guard, Acie should get sum/most of those minutes at the backup point. Better ball handler, penetrates more instead of relying on jumpers.

20-10 on the horizon ….

F.A.L.C.O.N.S. WE’re Here babay

Ryan-MVP

SMITH-Coach of the year

Dimitroff-Gm of the year

By doc

December 22, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

it was woody’s idea. the one time the younguns tried to push the ball up the floor for a quick score late when josh piled into stuckey woody was talking to marvin as they came off the floor. woody and josh decided to ignore each other.

yes imus the iso jj play was used to no effect ad nauseum yesterday as was the hold the ball and then try to get off the last shot. they are most effective when moving the ball around and sharing the responsibility. they are at their worst when they do it the other way but continue it just the same even my daughters see the ineffectiveness of it and comment on it. it seems they can continue to move the ball without shooting then still make the last shot as they need it rather than forcing it and seeing flip or jj dribble off their feet.

By ant banks

December 22, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

imus what other coach and gm is doin’ anythin’ in the nba? can you see the woodman as coach of the year and sund gm of the year, if the hawks make a deep run in the playoffs?

By bali smith

December 22, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

goo article…… i think the hawks have gotten better each year coach W has been in charge. Are they an elite team……….. i dont know. I do believe they will be better this year and maybe be a higher seed………have they arrived…. dont know. can the hawks handle success, will they have major injuries…… will Marvin use his gifts to the fullest. time will tell. It sure has been ablast so far……. go hawks

By I MUS WRITE

December 22, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Ant -I can see that, becuz most of the sports writers dont follow this team the way we do.

At the end of the day it really is all about wins and losses and a deep playoff run would solidify Woody and Sund as Coach/gm of the year

Those of us who watch nearly every game know the deficiencies of our coach …..how stubborn he can be, how he kills confidence, lack of in game adjustments etc…….

If this team gets to 50 wins and getz busy in the playoffs -I would vote for him myself lol

ISO JOE- Can that shyt man, u cant beat a team playing 1 on 5…..

By Melvin

December 22, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this

Before for the season started I predicted 45-50 wins. After watching just about every game this season, I believe that our record could have been better. Although we’re in 4th place, I still think had Woody use better rotations and play calling that this team could have been more successful at this point in the season. However, I’m not going to bash Woody too much b/c he does have these guys playing hard every nite and we’re winning more than we are losing.

Go Hawks….

By I MUS WRITE

December 22, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

Ray- I doubt GS would want Acie, he does’nt shoot well enuff and would probably be in Nellies dawg house.

If they were game I would jump on that trade in a minute. B.Wright is a solid yung player..I luv his athleticism and length, he does work inside for being so thin….. I could see him fitting nicely here,that way we could ax sum of these bench warmers- Gardner, Clax,Hunter

Rudolph is gonna be a player as well -He reminds me of an athletic Danny Manning -Chris Gatling

By BosnianBaller

December 22, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

Thats how you win in this league.Win your home games and play .500 on the road.Thats how those good Hawks teams with Smith and Blaylock won in the 90’s.

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Tell me a coach that is perfect? Can’t find one. Sure we can find all kind of things wrong with Woody but bottom line is that the Hawks under Mike Woodson is the biggest surprise and one of the most talked about teams in the league. That’s all that counts.

IMUS,

I wouldn’t call it stubborn. Woody sticks to what he believes in. I would say that he has built more confidence than he’s killed, otherwise we wouldn’t be 17-10.

I’ve seen all types of coaches. Some who spend 75% or more of their teaching doing plays and X’s and O’s. Then i’ve seen the Flip side where coaches spend the majority of their time teaching defense, rebounding and just letting the guys play on offense. Both ways can work. The main thing is the confidence and talent of the players.

Right now,

The players trust in Woody’s system and it’s working. That certainly means more than what you and I think.

Woody = COY

By bigdave

December 22, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

I feel our Hawks can excel in 7 vs anyone..

Whats important is to play confident, aggressive, and inspired basketball. When the Hawks are playing with that attitude you can tell. I think the key for this team is to continue to buy into Woody’s defensive philosophies. This is what will determine the Hawks progression. We can not, or will not outscore anybody night end or out. Nor should we have this mindset. Defense is all about effort, point blank.. period. Our players must realize that every game your jumper might not be working for you, you might commit turnovers, or struggle in other facets of the game. However, going all out on defense requires nothing but personal effort and competitive nature. The WILL to win. Sometimes I notice that this effort is given only when that particular player has is offensive game working. That won’t get it done. Our formula to that 6-0 start was holding teams under 85 per game.

Take the game v. the Leprechauns. The Hawks played with passion and inspiration, due to the high intensity of the game. We did not play that well, however our effort was there and you could see it on the defensive end. When Josh threw it down on Big Perk, you could see the passion and to some degree hatred for the competition in his reaction. Though KG came down and had his way with us on the offensive end. Josh played outstanding d on those KG’s made conversions. I saw the replay’s slowed down and Josh was there, bumping, grabbing, and contesting.

In contrast, take Sundays 1st half performance vs. Detroit. In my opinion we executed better than we had since our great start. However, we suffer from lapses. Giving Detroit ample opportunities to get back into the game and they eventually did. This required the Hawks pick it back up on defense. Shown from the Sports South’s camera angle above the basket, Joe came down and defended A.I. better than Ive seen A.I. defended. He refused to give up an easy basket. Thats effort and WILL folks.

Rondo said it best, if we play everyone else like we play Boston we will be an elite team. We can be an elite team and truthfully we are. We just have to bring it, night end and out. No matter who the competition is or if its regular or post season. That game came down to made baskets late. They hit, we missed, but the game was there for the taking due to our effort. Our developed habits on both sides of the ball during the regular season, will determine our mindset, play, and even the calls we get during post season play…

LETS GO HAWKS!!! LETS GO HAWKS!!! LETS GO HAWKS!!!

By My name is Hank

December 22, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Sekou when is the last time both the Hawks and Falcons made the playoffs in the same calendar year?
And, who is this infamous Greek Chills guy? Sounds like a failed international 33rd flavor from Baskin Robbins. Unlike Oliver Miller at the Ryans buffet, I’ll pass on that.

Happy Holidays from Hank.

By I MUS WRITE

December 22, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Samuel- come on man……..I said I was’nt gonna bash the coach this year.

We are 17-10 becuz our guys are maturing and playing better Defense,also we have a healthy Bibby. Last but not least the bench is alot better.

Now i will give Woody props for the focus on defense- i think that may be his nitch as a coach?…..

My only complaint is the offense- its too dam predictable and the ISO Joe stuff is killing me …… I really dont see any sets being run -its mostly long jumpers or scoring off scramble plays…

Y not run JJ or Marvin off 2 or 3 screens (Reggie Miller/Rip Hamilton) to get open instead of jj slowing the ball down and try’n to shake 2 or 3 people -just doesnt make sense.

Y is Josh still hang’n around the 3 pt line jacking shots when he is like 25% -dribbling the ball 94 ft just to throw a bad pass,this is all coaching Sam,a good coach would’nt put up with that garbage.

I call it like i see it -we are a good team who wins inspite of coach x not becuz of him…………. With all that said we are winning games so Im going to cut the guy sum slack.

The next hawks game just look in the huddle at the faces as Woody is drawing up a play…. Its crazy players are looking in the stands, scratching their azz,flerting with women, Thinking about what they are gonna do after the game. Nobody is paying attention becuz they are going to do what they want when the ball is inbounded.

Developement- Acie Law ….the guy needs playing time. He is clearly our best defender at pg, breaks the D down at will but still remains stuck to the bench…………………Our coach had confidence in Anthony Johnson but cant trust Law …………… Yeah Woody is like kids smoking cigaretts - GROWTH STUNTER

By ray

December 22, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Samuel,

From your 11:13 post, I agree. Unless something comes along that will clearly make us better in the short and long term. And since I am not privy to the realm of such possibilities, I don’t see anything like that coming.

17-10 feels great to me…

By Ryder

December 22, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL OF MY HAWKS BLOGGING BRETHREN! Enjoying time with the family and of course loving how the Hawks continue to man up and win against potential playoff teams in Detroit and Cleveland. I think Wednesday’s loss helped the Hawks more than anything else, especially when they came out sloppy against Golden State.

Look at how much more poised the Hawks looked since the Celtics game last week. One note of caution though is how much time the starters are playing. Since they are facing a weak Thunder team on Tuesday I hope Woodson will allow the bench to get more playing time and balance things out at the final stretch of this homestand.

Even if they finish 6-2 they are going to go back on the road at 19-11, and it’s like i’ve always said, you can’t judge an NBA team until around Christmas….

….well, Christmas is here, and as we’ve seen Atlanta is a threat to make noise in the playoffs. That said, the Hawks must continue to get the wins not only at home, but on the road against weaker teams (Pacers, Wizards, Sixers, etc.) before they go out on those West Coast trips that can really wear a team out.

As of this note the Hawks and Falcons now own the city, and it’s exciting to see where both teams are going come 2009!

Love and blessings to all, and GO HAWKS!!!!!

By cp

December 22, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I MUS WRITE you pretty much summed it up for me lol… Great post…Woody has to realize that Flip is not a pg. I don’t think I have ever seen a guy get his pockets picked as much as Flip… I also hate how he dribbles and dribbles to take the last shot at the end of the quarter only to lose the ball or throw up a brick…We cant develop Law if we wont allow him to get some consistent minutes and play through his mistakes…

ray if Golden State does that move then Mullin might as well clean up his office and go home. I like Felton but that would be a bad move for the Warriors and a great one for the Bobcats. It might be time to get Nelly out of there. That guy is hurting that team because of a grudge he has with whoever within that organization… I think Wright and Randolph are going to be good players. Both just need to add weight and get some consistent pt….Those two along with Augustine would give the Bobcats a nice young nucleus in the up coming years. Marcus Williams can play but he hasn’t been given an opportunity there…Man if I’m the Bobcats I’m all over that deal.

By hawkfan

December 22, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

okay the 17-10 record is still looking good, the only team that I see that my creep up on us and try to get the 4th seed is the miami heat, after seeing them defeat the lakers last friday, idk what to say about them, every time i think they are going to lose they somehow win and right now there only 2.5 games behind us so we cant lose focus any time soon, GO HAWKS!!! and for some reason the falcons remind me of the hawks last season when we creeped into the playoffs and had the “nothing to lose” approach, the difference only that we had max of 7 games where the falcons just have a one game chance to get it right

By ray

December 22, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

LOL….

I MUS and Samuel…

By ray

December 22, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this

CP, Melvin,

I was just throwing that out there since some people brought up the idea of trading or packaging Acie Law for….who knows what. That, and I saw the news that Felton might be going there. Plain and simple- neither Wright nor Randolph gets minutes here. But it makes for decent side discussion. I don’t really see it happening, but you never know about these things.

By ray

December 22, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

CP,

Charlotte should jump on it with both feet. But who knows with Michael at the helm…

By cp

December 22, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

I just read that Joe Smith is available. I think he would be a nice pickup. He can rebound and he plays good d.. I know he is not a center but I think he can play some back up center at times. I think we should look at that option.

By hawkfan

December 22, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

also, did anyone notice during the postgame show, dominique referred to rip hamilton as richard jefferson, lol, and no one said anything of it

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

I MUS,

That happens at every NBA game. They do it to Phil and all the great ones.

The NBA game is pretty simple. You guys keep making it sound like rocket science. The successful teams have players that demand double teams, they kick it out to the open man. Occassionally, you let other players initiate the offense but it still basically the same thing.

JJ is our Kobe, our KG, our Tim Duncan, our Shaq, our MJ. The difference is that now we have a Allen/Pierce, a D Wade, a Ginobli/Bowen, a Kerr/Hodges in Mike Bibby.

It don’t really take a lot of play calling just unselfish basketball and somebody who can knock down the open jumper.

By ray

December 22, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

hawkfan,

I think everybody is treating ‘Nique like an old punch-drunk, former boxing champion. Everybody knows he’s a little slow, but everybody likes him, so they don’t pick on him, lol! ‘Nique is a heck of a guy (not that I know him personally). He’s certainly a nice guy. But I see why he doesn’t hold any particular office of responsibility.

Samuel,

I swear I’m not trying to get into it with you, but could you not make such bad comparisons? JJ is great. But he lacks Duncan’s focus, Shaq’s ability to just absolutely dominate, KG’s intensity and vocal motivational leadership, and MJ and Kobe’s absolute sheer will to win (and pure dominance).

Bibby is definitely our open jumper guy. But we missed our chance on a D Wade type. Several times over…

By The Grinch

December 22, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

I am very happy to see the Hawks playing as well as they are, and I think it’s legit. But anyone who thinks it’s due to Woody’s coaching needs to back away from the crack pipe. Even WITH BK screwing up almost a decade of top 10 draft picks, we’ve still amassed enough talent that it shouldn’t be a surprise we’re playing well. I will say it’s nice that none of them are thugs and/or locker room cancers, which I suppose is one thing Knight did right.

Woody is too stodgy for this team; he’s not the right fit. And the reason we have players on the bench is so that JJ doesn’t have to play 48 minutes every night. The poor man ought to sue when he has to retire at 30 with bad knees.

Woody=COY? ^%$#$ please. He’s a lot closer to Wade Phillips coaching down the Cowboys than Mike Smith coaching up the Falcons.

This team is playing well and will continue to develop (especially if Sund gets us a big man so Al can play his natural position), and I’ll be happy to plunk down my hard earned dollar to watch it. But it ain’t on Woody.

By A Thinking Fan

December 22, 2008 6:21 PM | Link to this

Wins will blind the sane - we still have the BASG!

GO HAWKS!

By ray

December 22, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

CP, I wouldn’t mind the addition of Joe Smith. He’s a decent veteran big, so Woody would probably play him. At least then we could get more help down low on the bench and maybe ease the minutes on Al and Josh (while he’s healing).

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Ray,

I said he was our Shaq, Duncan and MJ. Just making an analogy being that all these guys forced double teams. He’s not on their level but no one man can stop him either.

On a side not: neither DWade or Kobe has shown that they can be Batman either. I’m just sayn.

By Ed

December 22, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

It appears to me that Woody is playing to have a good December/January and the heck with later on. You cannot get by all year with what has now come down to a 7 man rotation. DNP’s for Acie & Solo again…it’s just not going to cut it!

By ray

December 22, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Samuel,

I know, man. It’s just that I have a reputation to uphold. If I agree with something you say, then I must disagree with the next thing you say. It’s all about balance, you see? Just kidding. No, I really did know what you meant, but I have a devious streak a mile wide.

On Kobe and Wade: you’re right. I feel that Wade is just trying to lead his team, after losing so badly last year. He’s doing as good a job as can be expected. And 29ppg is nothing to sniff at. Kobe on the other had, has been Robin often enough to the point of where he hated it. I think what is what truly drives him at this point. He watched Shaq be the man time and again, with him mentioned as the sidekick. He wanted more. He’s capable of more, but has to prove it. Otherwise….he becomes a more successful version of Tracy McGrady. Or Vince Carter. Or some other prolific scorer who’s capable of taking over a game, but not winning it all as the lead man. And that drives him nuts. Maybe this is the year. Maybe not. But sooner or later the window closes.

And I don’t know if he has what KG had: the ability to take it down a few notches and work with guys who are essentially your peers, for the greater good. I’d say right now, Kobe doesn’t have that in him. And he shouldn’t. Not if he’s going to be the man, and have the best chance he’s ever had to prove it…for the second time.

By ray

December 22, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Ed,

We could say that. But then if he has a good January/February, must we then say that Woody was planning/playing to have a good Jan/Feb, and to heck with the second half of the season? However, I do agree that a 7 man (or even an 8 man) rotation is a bit short over the long term scheme of things. Seems that Woody said he was the one who did this, against the advice of his assistants. Perhaps he will do it again, it’s his choice and prerogative. We can only watch…and complain. But there’s nothing wrong with having an opinion about it.

By darrell starks

December 22, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

woody no that we all like him and we want him to succed as coach but we only speak the truth and everyone has there on opinion. sometime i think woody just dont get it THIS IS A LONG SEASON WOODY AND I WILL LEAVE IT AT THAT.GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By richbrave

December 22, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

I see the HAWKS doubters are becoming believers. Go all in HAWKSTERS. This team is for real. MANNY T said he hoped his 44 prognostication was blown out of the water. Zerox mine for 45. Wish drMARYB would show and give us her current take.

By rms

December 22, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

If Woody dont expand his bench now just to see what his player strengths are off the bench whether its rebounding or assists or just fouling defense or just fouling someone to keep your starters from fouling out then I guarantee you that as the season progress especially after the All-Star break then defitnitly wont expand the bench then. Now is the time to play your bench if anything just to see what you got in your players in game time situations. Practice games are not an accurate gauge to make that determination. I just have a feeling that if we rotate our bench effectively we could be better that our record indicates.

By The Hawksta

December 22, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

Same ole song, Woody won’t use his bench. Maybe he’s letting his vets decide how much the bench will play? As you can see, we haven’t blown anyone out allowing the bence to get more second half minutes. It sucks becuz we really want to see these other guys get better. I like our record 17-10. We must remember that this still is a very young team with plenty of growing pains to go around. I did see Josh make several outlet passes to Bibby. I think he(Josh) went the length of the court once or twice. That’s a milestone! The Hawks for the most part seem in cruise control yesterday. That’s saying a lot fellas. Since when do we cruise to a when over Detroit?

By Melvin

December 22, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

Im watching the the Lakers and Grizz. OJ and Rudy are putting in work. They are going to be a good tandem for years to come. I remember I lobby for BK to pick Rudy instead of Shelden Williams right here on this same blog. Dang BK, the one time you should have chosen a 6’8 stud….

By Lacsho

December 22, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Hmmmmm, I saw this coming that’s why I predicted 50 wins. I’m still not satisfied with this start. I think we could have a Cleveland record.(now will the naysayers hate for that comment, or will they heed the word of the brotha).

We have a strong bench that’s not being utilized properly. A better coach could have us at 23-4. It’s a long season, and I see the same trend. We’re playing our starters too many minutes. I think Woodrow is trying to save his job, during a time where pro coaches are being fired at the drop of the dime.

Peace from Jersey,

Sho

To my fantasy brothas get at me I’m still holding the number one spot!!!!

By Samuel

December 22, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

The nerve of a coach trying to save his job.

Better savor that #1 spot while u can. Week 11 will be here before you know it. Another beatdown.

I’m getting healthy.

By rms

December 22, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

So when do the vets decide how much playing time they get. If I am an owner (which I realize I am not), I am worried as to why I am paying a first round pick to sit on a bench for a long time. I love our record where we are and with better execution we could be a little better. No complaints there, just as a fan you are always looking for ways to improve and the obvious lack of using our bench a little bit more effectively can really save wear and tear on the starters in latter part of the season. Hopefully we can put our foot down on the Thunder on Tuesday so the starters wont have to play much.

By dan

December 22, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

The Hawks could very well win 51-52 games based on their current winning percentage. Childress was a great loss but I may like this team better as Evans and Murray are good role players. They all know The Celts could’ve been had in their 2nd meeting. 40% FG shooting would’ve done it even with Joe’s missed FT. I predict an eastern final showdown between ATL and Boston.

By lex luther

December 23, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I saw this coming. I knew that the Hawks were 1 maybe 2 players away from brighter days. I still think they should add a true big man. And if Acie is the point guard of the future, then get him in the game. Let Acie blossom like Boston has done with Rondo. Still, I saw this coming and I knew it was a matter of time. By the way, once Marvin starts playing like a man, watch out!!!!!

By Tron5000

December 23, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Dan, as it stands now, as the #4 seed, we’d play #5 in the first round and the winner of the 1-8 matchup in the second. So we need to move up to 2 or 3 to avoid meeting the Celtics before the East Finals. There’s a lot of basketball yet to play; hopefully the guys will get it done. But you’re right; an East Final against Boston would be downright ill.

By ES

December 23, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Hawks need to take care of business against Oklahoma City, but more importantly, their bench needs to wake up and start providing more meaningful minutes

By ant banks

December 23, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

what are the odds of us bringin’ chills back, if we make a playoff run? we still own his rights.

i think that everyone agrees that bibby will be here thru the deadline, right?

By sweetd

December 23, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

I think the Hawks are playing good, but I think we still need an athletic 7ft., to contend with the Celtics. It would be nice if we could trade Speedy Clayton for Johan Petro and Damien Wilkins or any other athletic center that is 7ft or taller.

By richbrave

December 23, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

ant banks:

Right. BIBBY stays through his contract. Next year - well, that’s next year, but you can see what happens to any NBA team without a power PG viz: the WIZ.

Merry Christmas to all believers and Happy Kwaanza for others who celebrate that holiday. Enjoy family and friends and take nothing for granted in this life for its far too problematic and brief. Peace.

By newkid

December 23, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Now’s the time to prepare the roster for a deep playoff run THIS season. Let’s hope Mr. Sund’s thinking in those exact terms. Doc says all that remains before Speedy’s retirement is the dotting of the i’s and crossing of the t’s. Let’s hope you’re right doc. “Retiring” Speedy now would create roster space for the addition of Dikembe - or perhaps Dale Davis - to fill the defensive post presence needed for the stretch run and the playoffs. Rather than waiting until after the trade deadline to address this need in a sort-term fashion (which appears to be the custom), wouldn’t it make sense to take the ‘pick of the litter’ sooner and allow more time for creation of chemistry prior to the playoffs?

To those of you who are now celebrating Hannukkah, and those of you who’ll soon celebrate Christmas and/or the Nguza Saba during Kwanzaa, all the best.

By O'brien

December 23, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

newkid I read somewhere that Dikembe will be looking to sign with a team after the holidays. And Doc Rivers said the Celtics are interested. I think the Hawks need to look into it (although Dike would probably prefer Boston, since they have a better chance to win the championship). We need a post presence, and Dike is a 7 footer who knows how to play defense and “throw dem ‘bows”. And he’s a vet, so Woody would probably give him lots of PT

By Ken Strickland

December 23, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

MELVIN-pause for a moment and reflect on each one of our starting players, then rethink your, Woodson has them playing hard comment. Consider the tremendous progress each key player has made during previous off seasons.

It was Smoove’s decision, not Woodson’s, to live in Houston during the off season and be tutored by Hakeem the Dream. It was Solo’s decision, which Woodson opposed, to skip playing in another Summer League to work on his individual skills and development. We’ve all seen the noticable improvement, but like the past 2 yrs, Woodson has refused to reward his efforts, unless forced to do so because of injuries.

It was Horford, not Woodson, that brought the tape of Ali, as a motivational ploy, to get the Hawks to sucessfully come off the deck and push Boston to 7gms. We were all totally suprised, especially Woodson, at how Marvin improved his 3pt range and accuracy. Bibby, the consumate professional, has worked on his long range accuracy and quick release, to compensate for his loss of speed, quickness and penetrating ability.

JJ knows he’s the teams primary OFF weapon, yet he doesn’t ease up when playing DEF, which shows individual motivation and determination. Acie took it upon himself to work extra hard this off season and come to training camp rededicated. As a result, he had the best and most productive training camp and preseason of any player on the team. Yet, Woodson has refused to reward his efforts and/or continue building upon his off/pre season hard word and success.

The bottomline is this. These young Hawk players have a lot of individual pride, are self motivating, and would play hard even if there was no HC. They don’t need, nor do they receive, much motivation from Woodson. What they need form him is a system, an approach and an attitude that will allow them to develop confidence, cohesiveness and structure, both individually and collectively.

THEY DON’T NEED A BALD HEADED, ARROGANT, GRUFF, TASK MASTER THAT’S NOT SUFFICIENTLY EQUIPTED AS A HC TO PROVIDE OUR YOUNG PLAYERS AND TEAM WITH WHAT’S NEEDED MOST TO REACH MAXIMUM POTENTIAL.

By Aggie80

December 23, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

Can someone tell my why Acie Law’s playing time has been so inconsistent? I one just looks at Acie’s individual stats, game to game, they makes NO SENSE! Stats do not show everything, but one can generally see some trend. Acie’s stats just bounce from game to game. He has what looks like a pretty good game - some points, some assists and some free throws. Then, the next game, he doesn’t even play. I mean if the next game showed 2 or 3 minutes, then you could assume he went in and was having a bad game. But to go from a nice game, to NO playing time is just crazy! What’s the deal?

By newkid

December 23, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

O’brien, I’m hoping the fact that Dike maintains a home and an active charitable organiation in the ATL, and the ‘rise from the embers’ of his old Hawks team, will combine to entice him to sign here for the remainder of the season.

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Ken,

That’s the biggest bunch of non-sense if seen to date on this blog. It’s one thing to dislike a coach but BS like that really shows your ignorance towards the game.

Woody has been with these guys the past 3 or 4 years on a daily basis but gets NO credit for their success?

Get a Clue.

Woody=COY

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

Hey,

maybe I can get the Thunder that Rocky Series on DVD for Xmas. That should put them in the Finals this year, huh Ken.

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Hey,

Hey, Boozer wants out of Utah. Maybe we could ship’em Acie. He’d be an allstar since he seems to like that Rocky Mountain High. Ken, what you got against Bald-headed guys? I’m sure you’re offending a bunch of regulars on this Blog.

By O’brien

December 23, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Samuel, I give Woody some credit, especially with a 17-10 record (men lie, women lie, numbers don’t). But Woody is Woody. Last season, he said he did not play his bench because the playoffs were on the line, and he said he would do better this year (he hasn’t (ask Acie and Solo)). He also said he did not do a good job of bringing Acie along last season, but he would do better this year (he hasn’t, despite Acie’s good preseason performance and flashes of good play when he is in the game). Last year, Woody said we would run more (we haven’t). And after 4 years, let’s not talk about our non existent half court offense and our iso JJ. As long as we keep winning games, Woody stays. But despite our record, there is room for improvement, including the coach.

By Melvin

December 23, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

O’brien your last 1:54 comment is on point.

Ken, I agree that the players deserve alot (or most) of the credit for their improvement. But it shouldn’t it be there responsiblity or job to improve from year to year? However, please don’t think I’m a Woody adovcate at all (sorry Samuel). I think the guy has his faults which is well document by us bloggers but I do have to give the guy some credit b/c the team is winning and has the 4th best record in the eastern conf. But I’m with you, I think the team could have a better record with some improvements to their offensive sets and bench usage….

By beau gust

December 23, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Whose fault is it that the Hawks stand around when they don’t have the ball? Is that part of the offensive game plan, or just a lack of basketball smarts by the Hawks players? I love the record and the tough defense, but I’ve never seen a team that stands around with their hands in their pockets so much on the offensive end. (Hawks are the only team where the unis even have pockets :^)

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Guys,

I know this is a blog and I thank the ajc and Cuz for giving us the avenue to be Fantasy Coaches and GM’s. So have at it, criticize and critique till the cows come home. I for one choose to get behind our coach and our team and trust professionals to do their job. Melvin, save the apologies. I don’t need them. Results are all that count and I’m sure Woody could give a rat_ arse whether you support or disagree with him.

Would I like to see some things happen? Sure. I would love to see a fast paced ballgame. Everybody does. Would I like to see Solo play more. Sure. But I also see the results of the system Woody is working and I would be a fool to question it right now. We’re sitting at No. 4 in the East and quite possibly could be better than the No. 3 team we’re chasing. What’s not to like about that?

Woody=COY

By ant banks

December 23, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

one of my homies came up wit’ a good point and it was hard for me to refute the points. so i bring it to you guys

he claims that the hawks are nothin’ more than lucky and that a lot of teams “sleep” on them. that’s why they are winnin’ but as soon as teams “wake-up” they won’t have the same outcome.

his main reasonin’ is what specifically have the hawks done to make them a better team? what is their formula? can it be duplicated? i couldn’t give him the “formula”

boston added 3 hall of famers, that is a tangible formula. you put 3 hall of famers on any one team and you got it. clev added a deadly mo williams to a letha lebron. that is a formula that can be duplicated. utah runs the pick and roll to deaf, very hard to defend. this can be duplicated.

what have the hawks done to contribute to their success. he told me not to mention the fact that they had a playoff run last yr because so did philly toronto but they are doin’ poorly.

i had no answers for him. do you?

By fudd21

December 23, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Ant I can’t believe you let your boy hit you like that without a response.

You can start with the 3 point shooting. Someone please correct me but we are at the top or near the top in both 3 pointers made and percentage. Last year I beleive we were like dead last.

We now have a legitimate point guard. We can go back and forth all day about whether Bibby will be here next year or not. But the fact remains he is a legit point guard and takes so much pressure of JJ. No different than Mo in Cleveland. Yes Bibby came here last year but was hurt and without summer camp.

Our entire frontcourt should be ROOKIES! I think alot of people forget just how young they are and if they had went to college 4 years would all be rookies. Therefore their growth and maturation will be greater each year than most players. Yes other teams have 1 or maybe 2 young players that are developing, but we have 3. It may not show in the box score but several have noted the improved defense and rebounding of Marvin. Josh isn’t turning the ball over as much. Al is hitting that 15 footer on a consistent basis.

CONFIDENCE!! I think that’s the biggest thing with these young Hawks. We as bloggers go into every game believing we can win and our Hawks do as well. Even when they get down they now it’s just a matter of time before they get back in the game.

And Ant please don’t let him compare us to Philly or Toronto. Philly brought in Elton Brand who is a half court low post player. Philly before Brand was a running team. The two don’t mesh, PERIOD! You see Brand got hurt and the next game Philly won. As for Toronto there is so much instability up there. TJ Ford leaves, Oneal comes in, Oneal gets hurt. Coaching change. Bargnani start, sometimes he doesn’t. Parker starts, Parker doesn’t start, now they want to get rid of Parker.

Defend your Hawks. We may argue amongst ourselves but take nothing from an outsider.

By Melvin

December 23, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Samuel, I agree with your statement We’re sitting at No. 4 in the East and quite possibly could be better than the No. 3 team we’re chasing. If you believe this, than why does the No.3 team has a better record than the No.4 team? Please advise.

By ant banks

December 23, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

fudd21 thanks for the materials, now i can go back at him. he is one of those hawks haters to the max. he just caught me off guard.

he also mentioned that bringin’ in mo evans, flip murray, randmo, gardner and gettin’ rid off salim, chills, and knight should not “equal” the success that we have.

thanks for the fax!!

By Ken Strickland

December 23, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this

SAMUEL-a lack of comprehension is acceptable on the Falcon blogs, but not on the Hawks blogs. You were being very presumptuous when you ASSUMED my mention of Woodson’s bald head was an indictment of all person’s with bald heads. That wasn’t the case.

I have no problem with anyone disagreeing with me. However, I wouldn’t question anyone’s overall intelligence just because of a difference of opinion, which is all this is. A lot of the difference of opinions concerning Woodson is based on expectations.

Some fans, and pundits, have had such low expectations for the Hawks the last 2 yrs, their accomplishments, this yrs accomplishments are viewed as a major achievement. My expectations, based on individual talent, have been higher, especially this yr. This team has had questionable coaching, as well as use and/or over use of certain players. Certain younger players have had difficulty developing under Woodson and his rigid approach to coaching the Hawks.

It’s all about expectations. The Detroit Lions would be happy to win just one gm. That would be unacceptable for winning franchises like the Packers, Patriots and Cowboys.

By JerryWest

December 23, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

Flip has 56 turnovers and 40 assists this season, despite getting a steady 20 minutes per game. That has to be the worst point guard stat in the nba. Can’t we just use him as a backup shooting guard?

By ray

December 23, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this

Good comments all around. Good comments on pro-Woody and not-so-pro-Woody.

I agree that Woodson deserves some credit for what is happening right now. So does the former GM, the current GM, and the players.

Samuel makes one very strong argument in favor of Woody. The 17-10 record and making the playoffs last year (although I still feel that this is highly debatable on many levels).

Ken made some great points on Woody as well.

O’Brien made some very sharp observations, and backed them up with quotes that I remember as well.

I enjoy the fact that we’re 17-10. I like that things are working. I have no problems giving credit where credit is due. But the proof is not all there yet. And it’s impossible for it to be there yet. Nobody gives out (or even considers) Coach of the Year awards for records through the first 27 games. Why? Because a lot can happen in the next 54 games. If such a thing was the case, then either Mike Brown or Doc Rivers would be taking that plaque home.

Again, the results speak for themselves, but these are not complete season results. Furthermore, if we end up with a winning season (and we should), it will be Woody’s first ever. That’s great. In the grand scheme of things, that means he has taken the next few steps in the journey of a thousand miles. Show me back-to-back winning seasons (provided the team is healthy and the GM has given him good enough tools to work with)….then talk to me about how great the guy is.

We all know how this works: right now is great. A second later might not be. Like Chris Rock said the music industry is: “Here today…gone ….TODAY.”

17-10 is wonderful. But if you want to talk results, then talk 5 years of results, not a third of a season. It does not cure 5 years of ills. It’s a beginning. A stepping stone, if you will. Woodson is enjoying better results as a head coach right now than he ever has. But he is smart enough to know that this is not a body of work, it is a sliver of success. And such things can be fleeting. So we all enjoy it while it’s here, and hope that it continues. But name me one coach who received that reward for a 27 game assessment. And name me one season (aside from the lockout season) where 17 wins got you in the playoffs or a winning record at the end of the regular season.

Am I downplaying this accomplishment? No, absolutely not. I’m loving it. But you can bet our coach and our team are professionals who know better than to hang a hat on 27 games.

I remember when Kevin Garnett joined Ray Allen and Paul Pierce on television as teammates. Garnett said, “Hey, this looks great and all, and I feel great. But we haven’t accomplished anything yet.” And when they finished the regular season with 66 wins, he said it again: “We haven’t accomplished anything yet.” Doc Rivers said the same thing.

You can bet Woody and the Hawks are saying the same thing instead of “Hey look, we’re 17-10, it’s all over and downhill from here.”

Word?

Samuel,

You stick to your guns pretty good, gotta give you that. Your choice is your choice. Trust me, if Woody wins for a few seasons in a row, several of us will be doing Mea Culpas, and you can gloat until the cows come home, lol! Something you said rings both true and highly ironic at the same time. You said you choose to get behind our coach and team and trust professionals to do their jobs. You say that Woody could give a rat’s butt whether we agree or disagree. Quite true, and understandably so.

But I find it so ironic that such things can be said in all seriousness about a sports team and a game….meanwhile you rarely hear that about the education system, law enforcement, the medical field, and all those things that really count. What about those professionals….not a question or an accusation, just a bit of wry musings from a mind older than its body.

By Say it ain't so, Bib

December 23, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/8973180/Marbury-definitely-tops-the-naughty-list

Almost a year later, hotel people out here are still badmouthing Mike Bibby for insisting on ordering everything not on the menu for his party of hangers-on (“I want fried chicken just the way my mother makes it …”) and then trying to sign Ron Artest’s name and room to a $330 bill. Precluded from doing so by the waiter, Bibby sniffed the waiter with a sneer, leaving no gratuity. This obnoxious behavior occurred a couple days before the Kings traded him to the Hawks.

By ray

December 23, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Ken,

Gotta hand it to you, you’ve got class. And you’re setting a good example.

Ant Banks,

Tell that fool friend of yours that if he knows formulas so well, then surely he could see what the Hawks are doing to win. We’re more athletic across the board than so many teams. Billy Knight, in his weirdness and all, did understand the concept of creating multiple mismatches. When we run, teams struggle to run with us, because our runners are bigger and stronger than theirs. Bibby is the X-factor with his sharp outside shooting, and our perimeter game is much better than it ever has been. We still need to work on our inside game, and we’re not as big as other teams are down low, but we can still exploit mismatches due to speed and athletic ability. More than anything, guys are stepping up and getting it done when it needs doing. Tell your friend to add a little orgnic growth to his chemistry set and then maybe he will be able to understand the formula a little better. Tell him to watch the games, and he’ll see. And tell him the Cavs, Lakers, and Celtics are all luckier than we are. For now. If you can figure out their formulas, he can figure out ours…

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

Ray,

I’m not concerned with the past. 5 years ago has nothing to do with the team today. I’m talking about right now and right now Woody’s formula is working. Right now he’s COY.

I also believe that this team is here to stay. We’ve defeated and competed to the wire with the best of the league THIS YEAR, so I see no reason to believe we will go backwards. You can doubt and speculate all you want. I’ve seen enough to believe in Woody and this team we’ve got.

Ken, why would you use “bald-headedness” as an adjective in the negative sense. Alongside words such as: arrogant and (slave terms) like taskmaster. You wrote it, not me.

From what I hear, Woody is one of the most respected coaches in the league. I don’t know where you came up with this characterization. Do you know the man?

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Ray,

You call that class?

By Big Ump

December 23, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this

Samuel meant that at if the voting was doing at this time, Woody probaly would be coach of the year. Everyone know the coach of the year award will be awarded after the season. So why the few of us is so up tight about that. For instance some people is saying Kobe, Wade, Garnett, is the MVP. How can that be when only 27 games had been played. What I’m saying you can’t have it both ways.

Doc, Manny T, Samuel,and Ray, I have a lot of respect for you guys. You voice your opinion about what you believe and you not afraid to say when you were wrong. Some of us on the blogs can’t man up to do that. In the meantime Happy Holidays.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have already gone to Josh once in the post and succeeded in drawing a double team, swinging the ball around, and getting an open perimeter shot. It seems like they are doing more to get Josh in position to kick the ball to open shooters. Woody does deserve credit for this offensive wrinkle.

By O'brien

December 23, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

2 Questions:

1)I wonder how many air balls Josh has shot so far this season?

2) How will our bench ever get extended minutes when the Hawks can’t seem to blow anybody out, no matter how bad the other team’s record is?

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

I’m getting pretty sick of the Hawks’ inability to blow out inferior opponents. If the Hawks had showed up to this game they would be leading by double digits already. Too many offensive boards and transition buckets for the Sonics so far.

By richbrave

December 23, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this

SAMUEL:

Speaking of COY. Said my goodbye’s to COY BACON of NFL fame. Not a young man to be trifled with. Met him while on the road several times. We were both hanging out in the bar in a hotel in FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA where I was conducting meeting room seminars during the day. A BIG dude. And that entourage that he carried with him had a couple of seriously tough customers in it. Two of them almost stomped a patron to death in the parking lot. The police came, but COY was clean. Seems the aggrieved didn’t care for the REDSKINS and BACON’s playing abilities. COY’s buddies didn’t find his statements amusing. No more lip from Mr. Patron. I spoke to Mr. BACON only when spoken to using “Sir” a lot. He was quite civil however as long as you kept the subject away from football.

By bigdave

December 23, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

The Hawks performance thus far tonight has made a believer in a championship contending team ponder if they are just benefiting from a young league, and other rosters full of new faces that have yet to mesh. As if the Hawks are just the the team with the most youth that has been together the longest, enabling them to have just enough to pull out most games.. Elite teams destroy OKC at home and take their cookies early. C’mon guys…

This concept of relying on our suspect, inconsistent perimeter game will not cut it…

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this

One of my favorite players of all time, Chris Wilcox is killing us again. Talk about a Free Agent that would look good in a Hawks uni. Should be relatively cheap too.

ND,

We’re good but we haven’t quite reached that level yet. I’ll just be happy with a W.

By cp

December 23, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Regardless of how poor Evans has been playing this month he is still getting consistent minutes. I guess Woody would rather stick with the guy who is missing almost everything he puts up to go along with average defense ,instead of giving someone else a chance to play.

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Samuel,

Hell, I know you don’t want to talk about the last 5 years, because it is in no way conducive to your argument. It forces you to look at the whole picture. Only the wise learn from the past. Fools ignore it and eventually repeat their mistakes. I’m betting Woody isn’t a complete fool. After all, are not films and tapes reliving the past for a minute so that you can learn from it? Surely a coach understands that. Of course, it’s not like they watch film from 4 or 5 years ago. Wouldn’t want to. But a fan remembers the last 5 years…and will continue to until enjoying the entirety of a winning season. We’re due for our first, but it’s only a third of the way over. So we enjoy that third, and hope the other two go the same way…or better.

I believe in this team too,but would you not agree that this record, as great as it is, is no reason to be complacent?

I LOVE this team, and try as you might, you cannot prove otherwise. I don’t gush unabashedly over Woodson like you do, but I have repeatedly stated that he seems to be doing a good job, regardless of any personal opinions I have about some of the things he does. How many times do I have to say that, and say that I’m thrilled to death with our current record and standings?

You might be concerned with now, and that’s fine. But I don’t want to see this team lose it’s focus. Now becomes the past in a second, and in that same second, the future becomes now.

I have no reason to believe that our team will go backwards either, but I recognize that possiblity exists for all teams. All I’m saying is that with 27 games gone, the season is not over. I believe in taking things one game at a time, so I can understand the “now” thing, in a way. As a fan, speculation is natural. As for doubts, I really don’t have any.

Sorry, but I can’t gush like a drunken prom date over Woody. I’ll settle for giving him credit. COY right now is good for you, then go for it.

As for Ken, I was describing his reaction to your diatribe. I don’t care what he says about Woody. You said the man’s opinion was the most nonsense you’d seen on this blog yet, and basically called him ignorant. He responded to you more calmly and respectfully than you did. I call that class. You can call it what you want. I call it like I see it. Surely you can identify with that.

Me? I’ve been trying to be respectful too, despite your obvious baiting. But who knows….maybe I’ll have a relapse.

By the way ya boy Bibby runs the pick and roll with these guys ten times better than JJ ever has…how about that shiz? And I have to give ya boy Woody props for installing this, even if it took him forever to do it. Bibby is helping Josh get back in the game the way he is supposed to. And I love it. Can you dig that, or you still wanna call me a hater?

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

You guys talk about how bad Woody is but: How can Wilcox not be starting on this team?

By bigdave

December 23, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

How bout a little rest for the back court…

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Glad to see we finally woke up and are beating these guys like we should.

Sam, I love Wlcox’s game in the post. But where does he play for us, and how much? Don’t get me wrong, I’d sign him quick…

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Actually, I don’t see how he doesn’t start for this team. But my question is really this: who goes to the bench (or away in a trade, because I don’t see any of our starters going for that…but what do I know?).

By bigdave

December 23, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Nique… i know your nephew play for them but dam….n..

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Kevin Durant is the best player on the floor tonight, and it’s not really all that close.

Joe needs to step up.

By rms

December 23, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

I give up! We only have eight players on our team. Thats it! Only eight! I thought we could at least run with 9 or 10. Nope. Only 8. So lets just trade Law and Solo and maybe a draft pick for somebody else like a center and roll with that. POBWAF!!!

By O'brien

December 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

What’s up with Mo Evans? He can’t seem to buy a jumper in December.

And shouldn’t Woody give Acie some of Flip’s minutes? How many times have we seen the defensive intensity of the Hawks pick up when Acie is in the game?

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

That is what’s so aggravating about this team. We should be beating these guys like a well-worn drum.

Yeah, I know they’re young, athletic, and energetic. But if I was Big Al or Josh, I’d take all that dunking by Wilcox personal. And now we’ve let them back into the game, and Durant is starting to heat up. I still see us winning as long as we don’t continue to play lax and stupid. A couple years ago, I’d say this was going to be a loss. Not anymore, but we still can’t afford to d!ck around against teams…

By bigdave

December 23, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this

we miss his scoring but he’s flirting with a triple double…

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Najeh,

I can’t believe we’re letting them outrebound us by 10! Well, at least we turned it back up a notch for a second here and extended the lead. Time to go up by about 15 or so, then maintain.

By ray

December 23, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

O’brien,

Good point. It’s not like Acie is going to turn it over more.

By Ken Strickland

December 23, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

SAMEUL-you seem to have been offended by my use of the term baldheaded in my description of Woodson, and for that I apologize. You also seem to have issues with anyone, or any comment, that you don’t agree with. In other words, you seem to have a problem agreeing to disagree. If I say a certain NBA HC was incompetent and deserved to be fired, that doesn’t mean every HC that gets fired is incompetent. The term TASKMASTER isn’t a related to slavery, like the term SLAVEMASTER. You have to broaden you perspective.

The Hawks have a SUPERIOR record to that of Oklahoma City. Or, their talent is INFERIOR to ours, so we should WHIP this team. Based on your thought process, you could argue that these 3 highlighted words are slave words. However, common sense should tell you that’s not how the words were used or intended to be used.

Comeon SAMUEL. We’ve both been on these blogs too long to allow triviality to become a bigger issue than mutual respect. Besides, all we’re dealing with here, for the most part, are OPINIONS. right?

RAY-thanks my friend. It seems SAMUEL has a problem with you having an opinion of someone that’s opposed to his. The beauty of these blogs has always been the ability to embrace all kinds or people and ideas with limited disrespect.

By rms

December 23, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

whats that howling noise!! Oh yeah, thats just our bench guys locked up in the doghouse barking up a storm for some PT time. Cant keep a dog locked up forever no matter how much Alpo you feed him. POBWAF!!

By kirkinga

December 23, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

I agree that Woodson deserves some credit for what is happening right now. …

HaHaHa! See, it’s not what you say, it’s who says it and when that counts…lol! I’ve been saying this for some time now.

Sekou, thanks for the positive evaluation of the Hawks season , to this point. It is hard to promise May and April, which is point I tried to caution folks about, and they’re still crying about it.Had this team had at least one winning season in the last nine, I could see it, but the Hawks won 37 games and maybe few predicted the kind of season the Hawks are having, which is but one of the reasons why some want to change what they predicted before. Stick with 45 wins, it’s the best bet.

I would answer your question about franchise patience with the Pittsburgh Steelers. They had 3 coaches in 40 years and their ownership has been very strong in getting the NFL to consider minority coaches. All in all a good legacy for a patient franchise.

Go Hawks!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Nice to see the Hawks step on the throttle in the 4th again and put the Sonics away. This should have happened much earlier in the game, but still good to see the 4th quarter execution. Props to Joe on his triple double too… clearly he saw my earlier comment telling him to step up, took it personally, and got his in the 4th.

WOW WHADDYA KNOW 54 SECONDS LEFT AND ACIE LAW IS IN THE GAME GREAT JOB WOODSON GEE MAYBE WE COULD HAVE PLAYED HIM EARLIER

I’m a little concerned about Josh Smith’s ankle. For the last few games he’s looked like the Hawks’ 3rd best athlete. The explosiveness is missing for some reason.

By Najeh Davenpoop

December 23, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Also, does anyone else see the Thunder and get reminded of the Hawks from 2 or 3 years ago? A lot of athleticism, wing players playing out of position, inability to close out games late, poor shooting, inconsistent point guard play, etc… the pieces don’t fit perfectly, but overall it looks pretty similar to me.

By rms

December 23, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

well at least they got their 59 seconds of fame. Good win Hawks! Ugly as usual, but a win is win, right! Nice triple-double to JJ!!

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

Ken,

I don’t really care what you write. Just know that when you write, expect a response.

By Ken Strickland

December 23, 2008 12:21 PM

THEY DON’T NEED A BALD HEADED, ARROGANT, GRUFF, TASK MASTER THAT’S NOT SUFFICIENTLY EQUIPTED AS A HC TO PROVIDE OUR YOUNG PLAYERS AND TEAM WITH WHAT’S NEEDED MOST TO REACH MAXIMUM POTENTIAL.

If 18-10 is the result of being bald-headed and arrogant. I’ll take it. Matter of fact: Woody is 21-14 since he shaved his head. Bet PJ,Sam,Mo and Randy wish they had his Barber, huh.

By wow

December 23, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

I wonder how Mrs. Woodson gets any qt with her husband when Samuel rides his lap daily. We get it dude. Woody is the coach of the year. He is the best coach for this team. Bibby is an all star. We get it man . Im starting to think you are his brother or something. I have never seen someone defend Woodson as much as this guy.

By ray

December 23, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Najeh,

You called on the knob, in both posts. I didn’t know Woody was old school Catholic. He has to be with the bench serving penance like that…

A win is a win is a win. We beat another team we should have beaten. Man, does it feel good to be able to say that. 18-10 baby, and making the best of this homestand!

Ball Don’t Lie, as featured on Yahoo Sports, has us #6 in the power rankings. Hell yeah. I’ll bet NBA.com has us ranked higher too! Nothing like a little respect, and a lot of positivity. It may be difficult to cope with for the insanely hypocrical contrarian, but for the Hawks fans, it’s just right. Keep at ‘em Hawks…

You know, I was just thinking about projections. What might we be projected to win at this rate? And if it’s assumed by whomever that we’re only likely to win 45 games (which would still please me, but it’s not a result one expects while playing at THIS level), then how much would we be expected to lose/win after this?

Well, the math is pretty easy. Having played 28 games, there are only 54 left. We need only 27 more wins to equal a total of 45. So, for us to get 45 wins, we have to go 27-27 (.500 ball exactly) from here on out.

I don’t know about y’all, but having watched us play better than .500 ball, I’d like to continue to see us play better than .500 ball, having proven that we can do it.

Which of course, begs the question: what would make us play less effective, less winning basketball for the rest of the season, than we have so far?

Expecting 45 wins at this point, however you may slice it, says to me that you expect this team to not play as well over the final two thirds of the season as it has over the first third. Gee whiz, that doesn’t sound so positive. In fact, it sounds negative. Safely, fakely neutral at best. But the question remains: What would make this happen? Could it be coaching? Could it be injuries (now who can predict this)? Could it be bench contribution (or lack thereof)? What would it be? And why should we expect this team to reduce it’s performance? Hmmmmmmm.

Ohhh, I would really like to hear an answer on this one…..

By Samuel

December 23, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this

Woody=COY

By ray

December 23, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this

Ken,

It’s all good man. We’ve had our differences over the years as well, have we not? But it’s still all good.

Samuel,

I don’t really care what you write. Just know that when you write, expect a response.

Take a pill out of that bottle you’re trying to hand Ken. You might not like the taste so much after all. Heh…I can only laugh at somebody basically saying you’re jockin’ Woody. Karma is a muthaf@cka…

By ray

December 23, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Okay, enough trash talkin’ with Sam the clown pimp for the night….gotta go to bed and get up at 0430…later, Sam.

By ray

December 23, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

wow should reveal himself. But it’s still funny.

By Ed

December 23, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Well it seems set in stone now that Woody is going the rest of the year with an eight man rotation & all Acie & Solo will get is last minute mop up time. What a waste!

By Melvin

December 23, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Rodney Stuckey put 40 pts on the Bulls tonite. Can we please get Acie some PT for a Christmas present….

By rms

December 23, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Ed Thats the same thing I just said earlier. IF we dont see any lineup changes by the All-Star break, you can count on that weak 8-man rotation with Flip averaging about 4 turnovers a game and Evans shooting about 3-12 from the field. So I pretty much just gave up. He is set in stone with his ways unwilling to tweak a bit to get a different look. Oh well, at least we’re 18-10

By Melvin

December 23, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

I hope AC & Solo continue to be ready to play mentally and physically. Their time will come b/c the season is very long and you never now when a injury or suspend will happen and your name get call….

By Thuglas

December 23, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Good win Hawks !! Woody, keep doing what you’re doing with your 8 man rotation. Acie Law isn’t ready for prime time anyway - a wasted first round pick. He can’t shoot anyway. Maybe I would find a few minutes for Solo though.

By kirkinga

December 24, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Nice win for the Hawks tonight, way to give your fans a nice X-Mas gift.

I agree about Woody and his rotation, he is clearly more comfortable with an 8-man rotation, with Acie and Morris handling the 9th and 10th spots.We really haven’t seen a Hawks coach committed to a rotation larger than 8 since Fratello.

Woodson’s is giving bulk minutes to two guys his new boss brought in over the offseason which is a smart move on more than one level.

For the record, I’m sticking with my original predictions because it’s the safest bet. Things, bizzare things, tend to happen to Atlanta franchises. With that history in mind, along with the understanding that the Hawks will be tested with several multigame losing streaks, and the fact this bunch has yet to have a winning season, convinces me to stick to my original impression. I suspect the Hawks to be the team that I(and most fans here) thought they were.

Reality is acknowledging that stuff happens over the course of an NBA season, that’s not negative, that’s reality. Negativity is wanting to fire your Head Coach when the team is playing over .500 ball. Negativity is being unhappy with a 18-10 team. Not enough minutes for Acie is an issue? Really?

Horford seems to have improved his game this season, Marvin seems more comfortable, wonder why they can continue to develop under Woodson, but Acie can’t?

Seasons Greetings To All!!

Go Hawks!!

By beau gust

December 24, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

Maybe I’ve figured it out! Woody doesn’t want to play Acie too much at this point because he’s afraid the Atl Spirit will try to trade Bibby before the deadline if Acie shows too much promise. It’s actually a brilliant strategy.

After the deadline, Acie will get more PT, and the Hawks will have a solid PG and solid backup.

Not sure why Solo gets so little time tho. Nice 3 to end the game.

By beau gust

December 24, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this

“Things, bizzare things, tend to happen to Atlanta franchises.”

Anyone remember when a Braves player suffered a season (or career) ending injury waving a runner home from third?

You’re right on that call, Kirk. Just keep that jinx away from the Hawks for this year!

By ray

December 24, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

Reality is acknowledging that stuff happens over the course of an NBA season, that’s not negative, that’s reality.

And there’s the rub.

That’s all that has ever happened here on this blog. That’s all that people have done on this blog since inception. Amazing how it was labeled as “being negative” by certain sources, despite the repeated fact that so many have not called for Woodson’s firing, or demanded that certain players be traded (only acknowledging that the possibility exists, however remote).

Amazing how now it’s not negativity, but a realistic perspective. Heh, heh, heh. Yeah, it truly is about who says it and when….isn’t it. I couldn’t have proved my own point any better. A little bit of cheese proves to be just too irresistable. As I well knew….

By doc

December 24, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

beau, it might have been a nice three pointer at the end by solo, unfortunately it looked like his coach didnt like it one bit. he was really chewing on solo as solo ducked out of the court quickly. with a lead like that coach might have been thinking it was showing up the other team and being unprofessional as they were not contesting it at all.

to me it looked like solo was just jacking a shot up lackadaisically as in a shoot around and it went in. whatever it looked like woody was not too pleased and solo was likely to pay for it later. more dog house time is my prediction and knowing how good my predictions are, that alone might free him.

hate to state the obvious but that was a very ugly triple double on 8 of 23. again jj shot for fewer points than shots on the basket. i was with sautee last night at the game and he looked up and said it was a very quiet triple double. if we are to continue on our streak jj will need to become a little more efficient scoring with the basketball as he has been in slump by his standards lately. the most efficient player on the court for points right now is bibby. maybe jj is really the point guard now as he has the ball in his hands about as much as he other four players on the court total.

though it is premature to declare this team there, as kirk is saying, without injury they could move up towards the heights that lascho placed them at the start of the season. all comments were for improvement but not in the stratosphere they are in now. their defense is capable of keeping them in games as long as they keep playing it and guys stay healthy. though not one for moral victories even their losses to the celts are beginning to look more and more impressive as the c’s continue to trash all comers. it will be fun to see what the lakers do against them on christmas day.

two more games to go on this stretch that should place them in very good stead going into the new year. looking into the new year there is a a winnable game on the road with the pacers though we seem to falter against them to come home and be severely tested by houston. do i smell 22 and 10?

By doc

December 24, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

yes josh is struggling with his ankle. remember that was the same injury that sidelined vick for three months, not the fracture. he is being careful now and is very conscious of it at times.

ray,how was the cheese?

clyde, can you put together a t shirt aong the lines of:

……. FIRE WOODY/FREE ACIE AND SOLO …. ?

ken, might buy the first bundle.

merry christmas all.

By SBOLEN

December 24, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Sekou, Yes I’m watching and I’m excited, but there wasn’t anything “fast” about this turn around. Its great to be an Atlanta sports fan right now. Go Hawks and Falcons!

By Ken Strickland

December 24, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

RAY=I think SAMUEL’S last response to me put’s his mindset into perspective. He states, “I DON’T REALLY CARE WHAT YOU WRITE. JUST KNOW THAT WHEN YOU WRITE, EXPECT A RESPONSE”. Then he preceeds to make an issue of something I wrote. Why made an issue, or a committment to routinely respond, to something you supposedly care nothing about? PERSONAL ISSUES.

We all know Zaza won’t resign. But, how many of you think Solo will resign, just to sit on the bench and have his hard work and improvement go unrecognized or unrewarded? How many think Acie or RMorris will resign when their contracts expire? If Woodson can’t bring himself to play Solo, Morris, West or Acie any meaningful mins, and they all have some NBA experience, what are the chances of him accepting the responsibility of playing and developing next yrs rookie draft picks, and a younger less experienced bench?

Recently, Murray and Evans have not consistently provided positive contributions to the team. But, they continue getting consistent mins and opportunities. Acie and Solo have both had positive contributions, when given mins and opportunity, but continue to be ignored by Woodson. Wouldn’t you expect a DEF minded HC to give some consideration for 3 of his best DEF players(Solo, West and Acie)?

Maybe its just me, but I totally fail to see how Woodson’s decisions, and player use/overuse in the 1st half of the season, will benefit us during our 2nd half playoff run. You just can’t continue overplaying your vets, and wait for injuries, or the last few seconds, to put your young players in a gm.

By Sautee

December 24, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Thanks to doc, I attended the game last night.

The most striking thing to me was that Josh definitely looked to be at 60% at best. Every time he left the ground you could see him struggle as he “planned” his landing. I think this is why he’s struggling (even more than usual) with his shot. No lift, so he tries to compensate with his hands, making every shot more difficult.

Ray mentioned McDyess in the Hacks blog. A very good comparison, though thankfully Josh should recover his explosiveness, which “Dice” never did after his second surgery. But, like McDyess did, Josh is going through trying to learn to be effective despite his current physical limitations. I think the very fact that he currently has limitations is so frustrating to him that he’s losing focus (even more than usual). He seemed last night to have a serious case of “fumble-itis”.

I think his minutes should be scaled back until he’s “closer to fine”, as Emily Saliers would say.

By G Money

December 24, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

The reality is that until the starting 5 start making quick work of opponents that they are supposed to, Woody isn’t going to risk their standings to put in subs. The killer instinct has to start in the 1st quarter, not the 4th. Games that should allow Morris, Solo and Acie an opportunity to get significant PT are lackadaisically played until the 4th quarter.

It should be a desire of the starting 5 to give the second team an opportunity. That’s all about chemistry and team bonding too.

It’s a difficult thing, as one NBA coach told me, to motivate guys making a million a year. That comes from them being professional and mature. Maybe Joe, Bibby and Josh will develop even greater leadership skills over the next month so that the other guys are allowed to grow in order to help the team down the stretch.

Think about that perspective versus it all being on Woody.

By JM

December 24, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

Going into this game, I stated the Hawks need to blow this team out. Although a win is win, an elite team would have ran this team of the floor. We are close but not there yet. G great point about the missed opportunity to get the bench some PT. Also, good point about resigning the bench, but Mario will be sign b/c he might not get picked up.

By newkid

December 24, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Sautee, you make a good point regarding the adverse impact Josh’s lingering ankle injury appears to have on his perimeter shot. I wonder if we shouldn’t always expect inconsistency in his jumper to do with what appears to be excessive motion in his preparatory upswing of the ball prior to release. Many good perimeter shooters (e.g., Ray Allen) have very compact strokes, which leave little room for motion error. Smoove’s upswing motion starts down near his knees, accompanied by an exaggerated bending of the knees, and swings up to a point above his shoulders before release. With that much motion in his shoot, there are far too manny opportunities along the way for slight motion error to disrupt the shoot. Hence, we’ll continue to see Smoove shoot an uncommon number of air balls from 8 feet as well as from 20 feet. Good jump shooters, when they’re off, are off mere fractions of an inch. Poor jumper shooters can be off a fraction of an inch or 3 feet.

On the offensive end of the floor Smoove will come to realize that perhaps his most valuable asset for a stellar career will be a point guard who understands where on the floor to get him the ball to allow him to maximize his skill set; and perhaps more importantly, where on the floor to NOT even think of giving him the ball.

By jlewis

December 24, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

There is no such thing as a quiet triple double! Durant is never the best player on the floor, for his size he does not defend or rebound. Also, for those screaming for AC, he should have watched that triple double last night, you don’t have to always score, but be productive, a lot of nights, when he is in the game, he is not productive.

By Ernest

December 24, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Count me among those that would like to see a player like Wilcox in then Hawks rotation. Bringing a big like him off the bench that can play two positions and bring an active body on the offensive end in the low post would provide a dimension the Hawks could use.

The Thunder have a LOT of big men and are trying to sign Krstic, which means they may consider a deal. The player that might be available could be Petro and I would not have an interest in him for the Hawks.

Count me again in the group tired of seeing the iso with JJ in the 4th quarter. I’m not impressed by his triple double when you consider he should have more assists based on the amount of time he handles the ball. He shot 8-23 from the field last night to score 20 points. I’d rather see 4-5 fewer shots and replaced by 4-5 assists. We’ve got several players that can hit the shot on the kick out or while driving to the basket. The iso’s causes everyone else to stand around and look, which takes the Hawks out of their rhythm. They have got to see this on the game film.

By Sautee

December 24, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

jlewis

There is no such thing as a quiet triple double!

I’ll defend my statement. The reason I said Joe had a quiet triple double was that he actually didn’t play all that well. Poor shooting and one particular time when he lost the dribble and in desperation tipped it toward Horford who rose and made a buzzer beating jumper. Yeah, JJ got the assist, but it was UGLY. He certainly was NOT trying to set Horford up. Other times saw ill advised shots from OKC bouncing over the head of Joe’s defender (who he had failed to block out) to Joe who happened to be in the right place at the right time.

I’m not trying to lessen the feat, but just to give it perspective. From this fan’s point of view, he played a poor game (for him), and got some lucky bounces of the ball that added to his stats. The caveat here is that it’s likely that most triple doubles involve a few lucky bounces.

In Acie’s last meaningful minutes he got 5 assists and one turnover in 7 minutes. Good enough production for you?

It apparently wasn’t enough for Woody.

By ray

December 24, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

jlewis,

Acie has been plenty productive in very short minutes. Not every night, but show me somebody who is plenty productive every night with such short minutes. Let’s face it, the guy plays at Woodson’s whim, and nothing else. Whether that’s good or bad, right or wrong, is a subject of some debate.

Doc, don’t ask me how the cheese was, ask the rodent that nibbled on it…

G Money,

That’s a fresh perspective that I don’t believe has been raised. Of course, one could argue that Woody still has some bearing on the performance of the starters as you described them. You know things are: double-edged blade. You get the credit, you’re also subject to the criticism. But, your perspective is still fresh, and I think…quite valid. So what is the solution?

By Sautee

December 24, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

newkid

You are correct about the excessive motion in Josh’s perimeter shot. I was actually speaking of any shot he took last night. When he got near the rim, it was obvious that he had NO touch whatsoever. Worried about the landing, I guess.

I think his ankle is worse than they are letting on.

They need his intimidation on defense (even if he’s not skying for blocked shots these days). But he certainly still gets in the heads of the opposition. And maybe that’s worth his being there at 60%, but I’d love to see him sitting a little more ‘til he’s truly healthy.

By ray

December 24, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

newkid,

Excellent point. I’ve often wondered what the deal is with Josh and his jump shot. He winds up slower than Steve Avery used to for the Braves. I keep thinking that somebody is about to steal second when he goes for a jumper…

By I MUS WRITE

December 24, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Alright enough is enough- Samuel I dont know what makes you think Woodson is such a great coach. We are better this year bcuz we have better players,and the players we already had worked their azzez off during the summer………

Thats it Thats all……….

KS- may be right u get heated when sumone disagrres with ur post…….. Take an Ice bath dude becuz i’ll debate you all day on that one. What has the man done that warrants so much praise….

Cant think of anything-dont worry i’ll wait (whistling)

Samuel + Woodson = Man Love

By Ramon

December 24, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Every one says the Hawks aren’t blowing out the teams they should. But Cleveland struggled to put away the Thunder this week also. I know many remember the Hawks used to LOSE these games against teams they’re supposed to beat. At least, they are on the right side of the equation. Until there is more ball movement and movement without the ball, the team will struggle to put teams away. As we all know, the ball movement gives easier shots to everyone. I’m just happy to see, that the Hawks are struggling more with offense than they are with defense.

By jhan

December 24, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Wilcox would be a fine addition.

Durant was the best shooter - not the best player on the floor last night.

Josh Smith is definitely not 100% (I hope)! He continues to make bone-headed plays regularly. Ever wonder what Josh will play like once his athleticism returns to the pack? I hope this is not foreshadowing we’re seeing right now. Without his freakish athleticism he is barely an average NBA player.

Acie/Solo - no playing time once again. I’ve given up the argument for them receiving more playing time. I just hope it doesn’t come back to haunt Woody.

I’ll take the wins right now. I’m just worried we will be firt half studs & second half duds. Why burn out your top 5 players before the playoffs even start? Will Acie/Solo be able to contribue in the playoffs when they get no PT with the starters during the regular season?

It seems like Woody has put all his eggs in the 7-8 player basket. What happens if an egg or two cracks a week before the playoffs start? Sure would be nice to know you have some solid eggs in the fridge!

By newkid

December 24, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Wow, what about the ‘Falcons to Doraville’ news, huh?

By Ken Strickland

December 24, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

DOC-you’re wrong, I’d buy the 1st 3 bundles.

It’s hard for our starters to put gms away early when they have to pace themselves to play 35-45 mins a gm. There was a question asked earlier about the possiblity of Chills returning. First, his contract allows him to opt out at the end of each season. So, if he does decide to opt out, we could either resign him or trade his rights.

If we resigned Chills, what impact do you think his presence would have on Murray and/or Evans, especially Evans? With Zaza and Solo likely signing elsewhere after this season, who would come off our bench, which brings up another thought. Do you think Oklahoma City would be interested in trading for the expiring contracts of Solo and Zaza, as well as Solo’s potential, for Wilcox?

Our bench would be be thin in BIG’s, but Woodson uses only one anyway. Woodson would have an eight man rotation with vets Murray, Evans and Wilcox coming off the bench. Wilcox would make our frontline more athletic, and give us an inside scoring threat, which we don’t currently have. He might also thrive after coming to a winning team.

I’m not advocating the trade of Solo, but it’s a better option than allowing his talents to go unused and unrealized, then watch him walk away as a FA with no compensation.

By ILL-logical

December 24, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

So SS has let the cat out of the bag,Josh is no where near %100 and playing with pain.

Not good: if the injury is aggrivated 6 weeks MINIMUM downtime.So, what will happen/ Will the current incumbant continue to play for his survival or will he take the strategic view and play to advance in May-June?

Of course we all know what the answer to that is.

The silver lining is maybe josh is shedding his AAU mentality and is slowly but surely learning how to play NBA team ball.It would help if there were some Antonio Davis types around to help the attitude adjustment process along.IJS

Anywho,have a HAPPY HOLIDAY !

By O'brien

December 24, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Bill Walton was on ESPN radio, and he said the Hawks are a real threat in the East. However, he said their main weakness is that they have no offensive structure. And to beat good teams in the playoffs, you have to be able to execute offensively.

And I agree with him. Because the Hawks best offense is when they scramble around. Bibby and iso JJ is all we have. How far will that take us, especially on the road…TBD.

Like most, I never liked the Marvin Williams pick. However, I must say, that he is playing well. And I like the fact that he drives to the basket, and does not fumble like he used to. Even Woody gave him props after the game, saying Marvin’s defense and rebounding are much improved. (When Woody is giving you props, you must really be doing something right). Good job Marvin. Keep it up.

By ant banks

December 24, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

someone mentioned earlier that the best chance for the hawks to make it to the eastern coference finals would be to move up into the 3rd seed rather than being in the 4th seed.

the 3rd seed would have us meetin’ cleveland in the semi’s assumin’ that we both make it out of the 1st round. rather than a 4th seed have us meetin’ boston in the semi’s.

orland has a 4 game lead on us with their next 7 games they should go 6-1, meaning that they will be 28-7 when we meet for back to back games.

hawks next 5 games should have us 3-2, puttin’ us at 21-12 meetin’ orlando.

i am sayin’ all of this to say that we need to package somethin’ together to get some help down low. that is the way that championship minded teams think. look around the corner, anticipate what may happ and plan accordingly.

By Justin

December 24, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

1)I think Beau is right-Woodson isn’t playing Acie more minutes because he doesn’t want Sund/ASG to trade him before the deadline. If he looked ready, we might have traded Bibby to save money. I think his pt will pick up to 12-15min after the break. 2) Marvin will never make us forget cp3, but he’s a hard worker and definitely our m.i.p. and could get a lot better. We better resign him. 3. I still think we need a true center. Let Josh get healthy and see if we can move him for a legit center. Move Al to the pf. This is necessary to get us to the next level. Teams with a true center have the easiest time with us. 4. I don’t like the Christmas Day rematch. Why put the biggest regular season game of the year on a widely celebrated religious holiday? I won’t watch the game tomorrow because of personal convictions- but that’s just me.

By Mike is back

December 24, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I’m watching this, and I like most, I am surprise by the rapid climb in the Eastern Conference standing for a team that won 37 games last season. I know it’s still early, but if the Hawks can sustain this level of play then, yes, we all may have to revisit our perdition for this season.  I’m on record as predicting 48 wins for Hawks, right now that’s very obtainable. So, while I continue to plead Acie and Solo case for more playing time, it’s hard to argue with success.  Woody = COY is not out of the realm of possibility. I guess that’s why Woody is coaching the Hawks, and we are coaching the bloggers. Heh heh!!!    

Doc, I don’t know if was just me, but I thought Joe played one of his most complete game as a Hawks. He scored 20 points, and he accounted for 22 more points by way of assist, then to top it off he had 11 rebounds. That’s not being a scorer, that’s being a Leader. Something he’s taking a lot heat for.  Joe is making a conscious effort to get the ball in the post when he is being doubled and tripled teamed. The Bigs will stay engaged on plays longer because they are touching the ball, which makes this team even more potent.  When Joe is looking for guys and getting them easy looks, “It galvanizes the whole team!!!!!”  

Sidebar, I was watching the Bulls game last night, and the subject came up, who is the team to beat this year in the NBA, LA or Boston . Everyone emphatically pick Boston , and they said the only team that could beat Boston in the playoff was the Hawks!!!!!! Right!!!heh heh

 It’s no joke, everyone around the league is taking notice of these Hawks. This team is buuzzzzzzzzzzzzziiiiiiiiiing!!!  

“Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas To ALL!!!!!!”  

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

By jlewis

December 24, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Everyone is crying for AC, the same way they cried for Salim. If Salim is so great, why isn’t he playing for anyone right now? Everyone is sick of the JJ iso, well that ISO draws a double team, no one else on this team commands one. Also, I saw Bibby play before he came to the Hawks, he was terrible, because no one on Sac demanded the double team, which rendered his ability to make open shots null. He can not get his own shot anymore.

By kwooden1

December 24, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this

Good win by the HAWKS last night. Certainly could have won by more, but that’s only going to happen if JJ and Bibby shoot really well. I like the improvement of Marvin, his game has really opened up since he’s been making the 3. The way the HAWKS play offensive, they’re not going to blow anyone out. They don’t push the blow enough or consistantly executive in the half-court. But the offensive improvements we’re talking about would put them square on the level of Boston, LA, and Cleveland! I think the team is in a really good position to improve through the rest of the season and have a good seed in the Play-offs. This was another game that will teach them to come out with energy and aggressiveness against every opponent. Their going to have to quickly learn how to play being the favorite, opposed to the underdog!

GO HAWKS!!

By richbrave

December 24, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

I’ve been thinking. You HAWKS fans don’t give a rip about the WIZARDS, and I almost never get to see the HAWKS, so why not post up on the D.C. blogs.? So I signed up for a couple, and laid my take on this feckless homey bunch of losers.

And now I can see why ATLANTANS are thrilled by their blogs. My comments from this morning are gone - vanished along with the dozen or so others from this A.M. on the WASHINGTON POST blog. They don’t keep the comments up for any length of time, or they didn’t like the tone of any from early this morning. But yesterday’s are still there and they weren’t any less critical so I can’t believe thats the reason.

Anyway, the landscape is also littered with seperate WIZARDS blogs. I counted at least six seperate ones creating a most fractured reader commentary landscape. The format is lousy. As bad as the team.

I thought you would be interested in knowing what other papers are providing as venues for their fans. Count your lucky stars.

By I MUS WRITE

December 24, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

ZAZA/Solo for Chris Wilcox…. In a NY minute

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO EVERYBODY….IN BLOG LAND

I.MUS WRITE

By ray

December 24, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

jlewis,

People screamed for Salim because we knew he was a shooter, and one of our biggest weaknesses was shooting.

Some of us screech for Acie for different reasons. One, he brings a different element to the game than Bibby. Two, Bibby is a guy you want reasonably rested and healthy for the late season grind and playoffs. Three, it would seem reasonable to assume that you want to develop the one young pg on the roster. Unless of course your current starter is going to be here for another 4-5 years and/or you plan on going with a different young pg as your guy for the future.

Jhan,

We definitely don’t want to see a second half collapse, which is why so many of us were so critical of coaching and team structure. But we were being “negative.” We were also not recognizing a truly great coach for all that he has done right….in the last 28 games, that is. Trades/free agent signings are possible, but some say that no way will it happen (or should).

So considering that, our only option to expect to maintain this level of competition and success is to develop the bench, so as to NOT burn out the starters, and to better survive any loss of services to key personnel, should that occur. Hopefully, it doesn’t. But things happen. But, uh….that’s being negative….unless you frame it up right. heh.

By doc

December 24, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

sorry mike is back, those are numbers. if jj said it was his best effort in two years since his last triple double he would be lying. this was against the worst team in the league and he goes cold from inside and beyond the line and really doesnt appear to be having that superlative of a game given the FACT the ball now stays in his hands maybe for 35 to 40 % of the time of any given possession, sorry, if you saw something different either on television or at the game. good game yes, great game eh, no exceot for your fantasy team.

please give me more specifics, besides the numbers i assure you i saw them last night before they made the announcement. jj just didnt turn too many heads last night. look the ok city team was candy for him and we were behind late in the game. it may be embarrassing he didnt ring up say thirty or so points, durant and wilcox got thiers and wilcox with a double double, not even starting. for some reason wilcox got pulled though we couldnt stop him. that may have been one of those substitutions that are made to help draft position as we had no answer for the big guy. mike if you really look at it jj wsnt even the second best shooter in the game as that belonged to bibby and durant.

By BA

December 24, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Richbrave- I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- you can’t beat the quality of work provided by Sekou Smith OR David O’Brien. Plus you get big Ray, who’s been burning it up on the super-secret hidden Hawks Hack blog. But I’m sure there’s a decent Wiz blog that would like to have you. And if you ever need an additional Hawks blog, come holler at your boy

By Sautee

December 24, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

doc

So are you gonna believe Mike is back or your lying eyes?

By Ken Strickland

December 24, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

If I’m not the biggest anti Woodson fan, I’m definitely among the top 2 or 3. Woodson isn’t without his contributions, but it’s not what his supporters think. I’ll give him total credit for instilling a DEF mindset for this young team. However, someone needs to reinstill that same mindset in him. Again, why would a HC preach DEF, then almost completely ignore 3 of his best, and youngest, DEF players(Solo, Acie and West), even in situations where their skills are needed?

If players are consistently finishing in the lane, and Horford has gotten into foul trouble, how many of you would send in Zaza, a 5 with limited DEF skills, instead of Solo, a mobile shotblocking DEF 5, to rectify the problem? How many of you Woodson fans think another NBA HC would make the same decision in the same situation?

The Hawks win primarily when they play DEF. Woodson’s OFF is limited and isn’t NBA ready, which is another reason we have trouble disposing of weaker teams.

By rms

December 24, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

I totally agree with you ray. I am not saying fire Woody (although I wont be mad). All I am saying is stretch your bench a little more. I know you dont play everyone on the bench. I dont know any NBA team that plays every player that dresses out. All I’m saying is use what you got. A first-round pg sitting on the bench that can give bibby a breather-not Flip murray- and Solo who can at least play decent at J. Smith spot. No, they wont tear up the stat sheet every night but like I mentioned before they can save wear and tear on your starters, because when the second half of the season starts thats when teams put it in another gear and then we will see what this team is made of. If you dont have a decent enough bench we will see a significant dropoff.

By O'brien

December 24, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

If we play our bench, what’s the worst that could happen? The other team makes a run? Last time I checked, we have seen other teams make runs when our starters are on the floor. And how many times have we seen our starters get tired down the stretch? (Especially JJ last year when he was averaging 41 mpg. And this year, he is averaging 40 mpg).

And you have to build confidence in your bench. Solomon played well when Josh was injured, and Josh is still not 100%. So why does Solomon not get any PT? And Acie’s biggest weakness is shooting. In college, Acie was a clutch shooter, so his shooting will get better in time.

And isnt that what Rondo’s biggest weakness is too? Its amazing what PT and a good offensive system can do for young players.

By Mychelfromatl

December 24, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

Looks like the Hawks tried to land Antonio McDyess when he was a free agent. Also, everyone’s continuing to write about the Hawks after taking the Celtics to 7 games in the playoffs.

Link to article.

By Ken Strickland

December 24, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

When Smoove sprained his ankle, Solo acquitted himself quite well as the #1 backup 5. He rebounded well, provided solid DEF in the lane, and proved to be a strong finisher around the basket. Upon Smoove’s return, Woodson has shown no appreciation for Solo’s contributions and has since treated him as an after thought.

The NBA is starved for young, talented, mobile, inexpensive, DEF minded BIG’s. NBA teams send their scouts the world over to find what Woodson has chosen to ignore. How many other NBA HC’s would use the same attitude and treatment of a BIG like SOLO, especially when he’s in the last yr of his rookie contract?

Woodson supporters have the right to believe he is responsible for the progression of the Hawks. But, you can’t ignore his poor decision making when it comes to player utilization/overutilization/distribution of mins, and unequitable treatment of players, based solely on experience, not talent and/or positive contributions. His OFF scheme is so weak, his primary OFF players consistently resort to isolations and one on one play in critical situations. THAT SHOWS A TOTAL LACK OF CONFIDENCE IN HIS SYSTEM. HOW CAN ANYONE SEE THIS AS POSITIVE CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE SUCCESS OF THE HAWKS? BASED ON OUR TALENT, MATURITY, DEPTH, VERSATILITY AND SKILL LEVEL, WE SHOULD BE THE 2ND SEED IN THE EAST. BUT, OUR LACK OF QUALITY COACHING AND A LIMITED OFF SCHEME IS HOLDING US BACK.

By ES

December 24, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Now that we’re seeing a bunch of guys like Okafor, Deng, Smith, and Iguodala in the first year of their new contracts, it’s interesting to revisit the 2004 NBA Draft. Did the Hawks do good in taking Childress and Smith? I stand by BK’s picks, but I think the draft could have gone better. There were some serious studs in that draft, and while the Hawks got one of them (Smith) they left a few on the table.

By darrell starks

December 25, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Acie would look good in a thunder uniform with durant and green if your not going to play him why not trade him AND ZAZA FOR WILCOX why waste talent for nothing look WOODY IS not going to play him so lets do something to make our team stronger bench wise THEN WOODY WOULD HAVE TO PLAY SOLO AT CENTER AND WILCOX AT POWER FORD AND FLIP AT POINT AND EVANS AT SHOOTING GUARD.GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Mike is back

December 25, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

Doc, I have seen Joe play in person, and on the TV, can the Hawks struggles with the Thunder be attributed to Joe scoring or Woody’s offense.  I just like what I‘m seeing in Joe, he’s starting to look for the mismatch in post off the double and triple teams, instead of always looking for perimeter guys.  

I agree that in terms of scoring, sure Joe has had better games, but as a leader and a facilitator, I thought this was one of Joe most complete games. Hey, but that was just me. My main point is I want to see the ball going in the post more, I saw Joe making a concerted effort to get guys easy looks in the post, and then he took the game over going down the stretch in the fourth quarter…to me that’s another step in the maturating process of becoming the leader of this team. Knowing when to dominate, and knowing when to facilitate. 

With the resurgent of Bibby, Joe no longer has to put up gaudy numbers for the Hawks to win, that’s huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge!!!!!!!!!!when consider how much this team has matured.

By ES

December 25, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

Darrell -

Love the Wilcox trade idea and I even thought about this after watching the Thunder, but I don’t think OKC would do the deal. Wilcox is in the last year of his deal and he’s getting paid around $6MIL. Law’s trade value is low right now, and OKC would be taking on more years of contract by trading for him. This would be similar to the Bibby deal in some ways, but Wilcox has an expiring contract which makes it even more valuable. Not sure OKC would want to get rid of that right now without getting more in return.

• ES

By ray

December 25, 2008 6:51 AM | Link to this

First of all,

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!

Hope yours is going better than mine: For me, it’s just another 12 hour shift. Family is out of town. It’s just me and two dogs, staring at each other. But anyway…

darrell starks,

I’ve always advocated that if you’re going to commit to a coach and his style, you may as well commit to giving him the tools he needs and wants. Like you say, he isn’t playing Acie, so fine. Trade him if we must, and in a package with Zaza for Wilcox? Oh yeah, I’m biting.

Mychelfromatl,

Thanks for the link to the article. It’s good to know that we are active in the free agent market, and have our sights set on decent/good acquisitions. And I’ve been screaming for a veteran big man since the offseason…we damn sure need one. I’d be willing to consider a variety of packages for Wilcox.

Ken Strickland,

Now stop it before you put Sam in the hospital. You hater, you. How dare you question such a talented head coach! We have only to look at his head coaching track record to…uh…er…ah…nevermind. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, please ignore that last statement…

By ray

December 25, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this

Bibby has definitely taken the pressure off of Joe. But look closely at what is really happening. Bibby is becoming the leader that JJ never really was. Is JJ the star? Yep. You bet. But being the star doesn’t make you a leader. Being the highest scorer doesn’t make you “the man.” After all, would you say that Ben Gordon is “the man” in Chicago? A one-year qualifying offer would tell you otherwise. I said a long time ago that Bibby’s skills are unquestioned on the offensive end, but he needs to be the featured guard to be effective. I also said that one of the keys to our success was how he made the transition from featured guard to distributor/playmaker, if he could do it.

Bibby has done that and more. He’s the same sweet shooter that he’s always been, but he also runs the pick and roll quite well. Better than JJ ANY day. JJ and Bibby are both scorers with playmaking ability, but in the last several games, it is Bibby who is trusting his teammates more. It was Bibby who got both Josh and Marvin going early on against OKC. It’s Bibby who doesn’t mind passing the ball to Solo in the post (when he plays, that is). JJ had a triple double, sure. But I saw Bibby running the pick and roll flawlessly. JJ still holds onto the ball too much and too long, for the play to be effective. A pick and roll where you never pass the ball is, well…just a pick. And you can’t tell me that the guys setting the pick aren’t moving they way they should, because it clearly works when they do it with Bibby. It’s supposed to be a symbiotic-like relationship, and Bibby makes it so.

Here’s the key: Bibby needs to get good looks at the basket, if he is to be effective. If the defense is denying those looks, then you have to go inside. Bibby gets guys like Horford, Smoove, and Marv going, then that opens up space for Bibby, who is MONEY when you give him a good look.

This is how you beat the defense. THIS is why ISO Joe is such a bad play to rely on as a staple.

In today’s NBA, unless you have a star on the team who is a true leader, the PG is the leader. Even then, teams find that they need a good pg. Case in point? Cleveland. What shining star is brighter than Lebron? Yet they sought Bibby, and eventually ended up going full steam ahead for Mo Williams. Worked like a charm, as they are off to their best start yet. Other cases include San Antonio and Denver. Tim Duncan may be the Big Fundamental, but where would he be without Parker? Up the creek, and so were the Spurs until they brought out rookie pg George Hill and got him going. Speaking of which…when you see a 2nd round draft pick ROOKIE pg playing significant minutes on a championship contending squad behind an all-star pg….and your own lottery pick pg can barely scrape together 10 minutes a game behind a guy who has always been good but never an all-star, it just doesn’t sit well.

But anyway, take a look at Denver. Subtract Iverson (who’s awesome, but not a pg) and add Billups. Most people would’ve said right off the bat that Detroit got over on Denver. Not so. Detroit is currently not a real power (I think we could beat them again today with no real problem), and Denver is climbing back up the ranks of respectability and solidarity.

In fact, the latest trend is to do whatever it takes to acquire a “leading man” as it were. It’s spread to the draft as well. Why else would Chicago pick Rose over Beasley? Because….nobody wants to miss out on the next Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Rajon Rondo. Yes, I said Rajon Rondo. Oh, he’s very good, and people are beginning to take notice just how good, now that they are mostly over their Garnett and Pierce obsessions. People also take notice of guys who are slightly late bloomers, like Devin Harris. The leading man is all the rage these days. And that’s what Bibby has become for this team lately.

When he ramped up his defense, the team responded. I really hated his defense before, but he has improved that dramatically. And again, the team has responded to that. A true leader. Could he still be traded? Yes. Watching Iverson and Billups swap places is proof that even really good players (all-stars and MVP types) can be moved for whatever reasons exist behind the Wizard of Oz curtain that all GMs have. Do I think he SHOULD be? NO, especially not NOW, unless we get a heck of an offer (and that would have to guarantee that the team would get even better, and remain that way for years). And I think the most important reason for this is simple.

Bibby looks to have become what Billy Knight said JJ was supposed to be when he dropped Diaw, two first round draft picks, and $70 million.

Am I bashing JJ? Hell no. He’s an all-star. He’s our leading scorer and best player. Is he our leading man? No, my friends. I think that title belongs to Mike Bibby. If he goes out hurt (which is why I think we REALLY need to be getting Law in there more), we will suffer. Why? Because we’ll go right back to JJ ISO. I just know it.

By ray

December 25, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

San Antonio Spurs rookie pg George Hill, drafted 26th (okay so it was the first round) in 2008:

26 games played, only 3 started, playing behind Tony Parker, who has only missed 7 games: **20.7 mpg, 2.9rpg, 2.7apg, 1.12 TO per game, 41% shooting.

Atlanta Hawks 2nd year pg Acie Law, drafted #11 in 2007 draft:

24 games played despite dressing for 28, playing behind Mike Bibby, 10.3 mpg, 3.0ppg, 1.3rpg, 1.8apg, .7 TO per game, 39% shooting.

I just don’t get it…

Getting major love from NBA.com. We’ve finally made it into the top 10 on the NBA.com Power Rankings at #9. Hmmmm, looks like even the “experts” who get PAID to do this, happen to change their outlook, insight, and expectations over time. Like I said, that is why this is a weekly thing…

And first thing they mention is how we have to wait until March/April for another contest vs the Celtics. Okay, everybody knows it now: this is a rivalry, I don’t care what anybody says…

By Sautee

December 25, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

new blog up

By Mike is back

December 26, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Ray, granted this is only the last couple of games I’m referring to, but I listen to Joe post game interview after the Thunder win, and he actually stated, that he was trying to get guys easy looks. If that’s an omen that Woody finally relies the team can’t go far in the playoff with out a balance attack then great!!!. I love Bibby’s play, he’s been on fire of late.  So I couldn’t agree with you more on your assessment. That same leader is inspiring Joe. We know Joe is always the first option, so the team will receive an even greater impact if that type of leadership is coming from Joe also.  

I hope this something that’s Joe committed to, as well as the hold team.

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

By I MUS WRITE

December 26, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

Speedy/Acie/ZAZA/2nd rounder

for Beno Uldrich/ Spencer Hawes