Hawks

By Swatguy

January 23, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

Sekou, I saw Dwight as lottery intended at age 13. It was there. Ask the young fellow(scribe). Dwight could have been in the MLB (pitcher/third baseman) and probably the NFL also (He played center but he would have been a reciever or QB). It blesses me to see him as “still Dwight”, but growing up.

By MannyT

January 23, 2009 10:12 AM | Link to this

Sekou nice variety of thoughts today. I like it, alot.

Reasonable prices for concessions and player access is why I like minor league baseball better than the pros. The dollar deal in Philips is a smart one. Get the fans in the place early and give them a deal that doesn’t cost too much. If they start eating before the game, they are likely to make another concession run (at regular prices) before the game ends. Makes me wonder about the minimum time to work there for an employee discount ;-) I’d put in some time at a few music concerts if that meant cheap eats for all the Hawks games!

The Dwight Howard vote count is more about positional competition than his dominance. I agree that he is the dominant center in the East, but imagine if he had to share votes at that position with Yao or Shaq. He might win, but he wouldn’t get ALL the who’s better than that guy votes. The specific analytical comparison—look at the guy who just missed in each category and his number of votes. (You need to look at 3rd for guards & forwards, but 2nd for centers.) I didn’t look at this list and say, I should have put in a few more votes for Kendrick Perkins! NBA All Star Voting final tally

The front court activity thing fits well with who the Hawks really are as a team. Without the big, lane clogging, intimidators, our bigs must be quick, pesky, and active to be successful. Do you attack the Shaqs of the world by trying to be the little elephant that gets stomped by the big elephant OR by being the pesky bird that keeps coming by and pecking the larger, slower adversary?

Be who you are and exploit the heck out of it. I think we have advocated that approach on this blog for years. Even in the current level of success, you have to wonder if they would be even more effective offensively if they played a quicker game. Evn if we cannot run all the time, a more ative offense would allow us to force other team to make tough decisions about playing bigger, stronger centers & forwards.

All that said, I think tonight will be a tough game. Last time we played, Redd was out and they still were a lot to handle.

I’ll be there, ready to root—after I finish my $1 boxes of popcorn ;-)

BWAF

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

Good stuff Sekou. Glad to hear the Josh is putting the effort into studying tape. Still can’t figure out why so many thinks he’s a knuckle head when all you hear about is how much effort he put into his profession while keeping his nose clean off the court. As for the Bucks, I havent seen the injury report so I’m assuming all of their guys are health. I don’t think Woody can get away with Josh playing center against this team. They are too big and talented in the paint. JJ will have his hands filled with Redd. Hopefully Woody will put Evans on him to start the game b/c the Bucks run tons of screens for Redd. Don’t want JJ using too much energy trying to chase him around the court all night. Keep an eye on their rookie Joe Alexander, he’s going to be good.

By terrell barron

January 23, 2009 10:57 AM | Link to this

Sekou, so when can we expect Horford and Acie to return?

By noddy dred

January 23, 2009 11:00 AM | Link to this

Dwight Howard is a beast and a specimen!exclamation! Josh is playing well. Go Hawks!!!

COME BE APART OF THE BEST SUPERBOWL PARTY IN ATLEAST 11 YEARS WHEN THE 2 LIVE STEWS HOST THEIR 1ST ANNUAL STEWPERBOWL PARTY AT THE LUCKY LOUNGE. JOIN ME, THE STEWS, AND A SLEW OF CELEBRITIES FEB. 1, STEWPERBOWL SUNDAY. TELL’EM NODDY SENT YOU.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 23, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

Not before the end of next week for either guy terrell b. I can’t see how they’d come back any sooner than that.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

Okay Sekou, I agree. Howard is a beast but get his picture off our site. We don’t need to see this guy anymore than the 4 games a year that’s required…

By STRETCH

January 23, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Can someone please tell me how a young kid that talented living IN Atlanta gets overlooked by the Hawks?!!! Is there a rule against franchises signing kids in the same area code?

By Barry

January 23, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

What i have seen of Howard’s talent is that his an O.K. players, but he is not great. He is primarily popular with the kids and others for his “SUPERMAN” act in the SLAM DUNK CONTEST last year. Thaat is why his popularity has risen this year. Not for any fntastic thing he has done on the court. He is not yet the greatest center in basketball. He is not a Kareem Abdul Jabar, a Wilt Chamberlin, a Bill Russell, a Akeem Alojuawaun. He is an average young center who likes to slam dunk. I, however, believe do not like his all around game to be considered one of the greatest. He is average at best right now.

Moreover, since he plays in Orlando and not in Atlanta, he gets no props like that from me. I am a hometeam ‘FAN”.

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

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!! This is a SECRET from a HAWK FAN. TELL EVERYBODY!!

SEE YOU AT THE DOME!!!!!!!!!!!

               "SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!"

By Swatguy

January 23, 2009 12:31 PM | Link to this

Barry, wow. Dwight leds the league with rebounds, double-doubles and block shots. He is second in scoring and first in eff (for all centers). You believe these stats are average?

By MannyT

January 23, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

Stretch, they did not overlook him, they just had bad lottery luck.

I guess it all averages out in the long run. Phoenix should have gotten our pick 2 drafts ago when we got Al. Fortunately for us, the pick was high enough to be protected. Instead they got Robin Lopez this year.

BWAF

By Ramon

January 23, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Barry, you are making yourself sound like a republican, lol. LIsten, Dwight got so many votes, because anyone in the world can see he’s easily the best center in the east by far. And aside from the billion in China, and the Houston population, its widely accepted that he’s the best center in the league, period (Yao will never be able to rebound like him). So you are basically saying you don’t like a center who rebounds, block shots, scores, stays out of trouble, and is still 4-5 years away from his peak. You must be a Don Nelson fan (defense optional).

By Ramon

January 23, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

Barry by the way, if you’re a hometeam fan, why wouldn’t you want a player who is from this home team, and gives back to the area to succeed?

By Barry

January 23, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

Inequivically, “Yes” his stats are average. That is average because there are no other good centers in the leaugue right now. Therefore, you are comparing his stats to almost “nothing”.

Again, See you at the DOME.

Go HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Ramon

January 23, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

Barry How many dominant centers beside Russell did Wilt play against? And how many dominant centers did Kareem play against? If you take out Olajuwon, Robinson, and Ewing, how many other dominant centers did Shaq play against? Even in Shaq’s case (and you add Mourning) thats still only 4 out of 25+ teams. And I definitely guess that means they should take Mikan out of the Hall of Fame, because what greats did he dominate against? You are minimizing the fact that Howard doesn’t have a traditional PF on the court. So he’s getting these boards many times against two players even though he’s getting all of their attention in the scheme.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

“Stunningly, not everyone was convinced that he, and not Emeka Okafor, was the clear-cut top player available that year.

I had several scouts argue me down at the Big East Tournament that spring in New York that Okafor was the no-brainer to player.

What I’m wondering is, for those of you who kept up with Howard during his high school career, did you have any idea Howard would be this good when you saw him?”

I saw Dwight Howard play for the first time when he was a senior in high school, and I was convinced he’d be an NBA star. I saw Emeka Okafor play many times in his senior year, most notably when the Huskies beat the Yellow Jackets in the NCAA final, and I thought he would be a rich man’s Ben Wallace. Howard is every bit as good as I thought he’d be, but it turns out Okafor’s not even as good as I thought he’d be, let alone the NCAA nutjobs like Dick Vitale.

But as far as breaking the All-Star votes record, it’s pretty obvious that when he’s going up against the likes of Kendrick Perkins and Eddy Curry, people are generally not gonna vote against him. I voted for Howard too.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Melvin, if the Bucks don’t have Bogut, I think the Hawks can get away with playing Josh at center for extended minutes. If they do, though, Zaza will have to come up big against his old team.

From the previous blog… if the always-lowercase doc is planning to join the acronym club, won’t he have to discover the shift key at some point?

By 404atlhoops

January 23, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

Wow..Sekou! No Horford and even Law until the end of next week. With 5 games in the next seven days, I hope the schedule doesn’t start to catch up with the Hawks. What about Marvin? He’ll be back before then, right? I hope.

By Barry

January 23, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

Don’t get me wrong, Dwight is a nice kid; however, do not even think his name should be next to or equal to Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Willis Reed, Robinson, Shaquille in his prime. Dwight is not great. In fact, he has not won any championships,as Yaao Ming, so therefore currently non of these centers in the leaugue, including Howard, are considered “great’ in my book. They are not considered great until they win a championship. More than one championship. That will validate their worth as a true championship center in the NBA, not just a freak show during a “slam dunk” contest.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

Najeh, Charlie V and Gadzuric is pretty tough in the paint. And that hustle guy from UCLA (can’t think of his name) is good at running down offensive rebounds then kicking it back out to Redd for the 3. Alexander like to get his nose dirty in the paint as well. So Josh, ZaZa and Solo may have their hands full tonight. Hopefully I’m giving the Bucks too much credit but I wouldn’t underestimate them either…

By Swatguy

January 23, 2009 2:20 PM | Link to this

Ramon, not such a good analogy. Wilt and Bill played in maybe the best bigs ever. Bellemy, Thurmond, Unseld, Beatty, Lanier, Reed, Gilmore, Alcindor. Petit early also. Wilt faced them all.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

Barry, Barry, Barry. How can you compare Howard to those guys body of work? Howard only been in the league 5 years. All of those guys played on great teams and had at least a Robin to their Batman. Unlike Howard who had kryptonite as teammates prior to this year. Also, he’s 23 yrs old and would have been a rookie according to those other Legends of the game standards. Let’s at least wait until he’s dry behind the ears before judging his career….

By Ramon

January 23, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

Swatguy. the guys you are talking about now, would be small forwards and power forwards in today’s game. And with the exception of Olajuwon in one season, which great big didn’t have another all star on the team with him when he won it all, the main factor that Barry said Howard isn’t in that class. With the exception of Bill and Kareem (possibly), which one of those you named could guard Howard (especially when fouls were called a lot differently then)?

By no means am I saying Howard is the greatest. But to say he’s not the best center in the game, is almost impossible if you put in every aspect (especially durability). You name the greats, but you fail to mention that Howard hasn’t been in the league 6 years yet. Age wise, he this would be his 3rd season out of college. Short of zone defenses, in three seasons, no one will be able to stop him.

By mark

January 23, 2009 2:53 PM | Link to this

since josh is studying film, shbw him some tape of cedric cellabolas, from back in the days, dude was unstoppable around the basket. and didn’t have near the hops josh has.

By Astro Joe

January 23, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this

mark, I’d show him some Aguirre and Dantley film too. Or he could check out how Larry Nance was able to be effective in the post (despite weighing about 180 pounds) by using his explosive leaping ability.

Wow, I missed the Iavaroni firing last night. And I’m THRILLED to read that Lionel Hollins will get a shot at running the team for the remainder of the season. I thought Hollins did a terrific job in Vancouver and should have had another shot at a coaching gig. It’ll be interesting to see which players will improve because of the coaching change and which will spend more time riding the pine.

Glad to see that Smith has found a learning technique that seems to work for him. Too bad it took the Hawks 2-3 years to use something as basic as showing the guy some film. It’s not as if that technology or technique is new. Why did it take a new assistant to discover that Smith would respond to video lessons (as opposed to drawing pictures on the dry erase board or yelling loudly in his ear)? I swear, sometimes it feels like we’re operating with a 1950s group of coaches/execs/owners.

By steve

January 23, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this

why is everybody talking about someone who dont play for the hawks

By Ariose

January 23, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

Good stuff sekou. Hopefully the guys can keep it up until we’re at ull strength.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By ant banks

January 23, 2009 3:43 PM | Link to this

i remember when dwight first came into the league they interviewed him on espn. he was talkin’ about how much of a christian he was and how he wanted to change the “logo” to a sign of a cross. he was young then and i love dwight, but no one talks about the kid that he has with one of the cheerleaders in orlando.

you gotta be careful when professin’ what you want to change. jus keep it in your heart so that when you do “human” things, you won’t be judge by it.

by the way, i am not judgin’ dwight…i have 5 kids myself.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 4:08 PM | Link to this

Comeon Ant Banks. What does that have to do with Dwight playing ability? I have read many of your post in the past and you normally bring indept bball info to the blog. I can’t agree with you on this one…

By Ramon

January 23, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this

Ant, what Christian besides Jesus never made a mistake??

By I .MUS WRITE

January 23, 2009 4:25 PM | Link to this

Banks- I wish more yungnz had the attitude that Dwight has….. Melvin was right tho-that has nothing to do with his playing ability.

Besides- Christian or not itz hard to turn down sum hot cheerleader azz. U know the women down there were putting it on a platter for him.

If I were a Gm and had to choose one center it would be superman all day…. Yao is a better shooter and thats about it. I wanted to trade up to get him that 04 draft. Okafur is 6’9 at best and i couldnt see what all the fuss was about concerning him….. That man is just aiiiight to me

5 kids… -im sure you know its hard to turn away hot chics lol

By ant banks

January 23, 2009 4:43 PM | Link to this

Hey,

Sorry, you are right. it has nothin’ to do with his bball ability. i am sorry that i posted it. please disregard.

atleast i don’t type foolishness and “hide” behind another monicker. i said it. i faced the criticism. i am sorry.

GO HAWKS!!!

By ant banks

January 23, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this

i.mus you are right, i love women. i was really tryin’ to point out how when he came into the league at 18, he had an “immature” view of the league.

but again, i apologize, profusely!!! you know how you all get…wantin’ to cyber-jump/cyber bullyin’

it had nothin’ to do with his playin’ ability. i was wrong for mentionin’ it.

By Ariose

January 23, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

ummm, christians have kids too lol. I didn’t know he got some cheerleader action lol!! I’m not mad at him!!!

But yeah if the good lord didn’t want us to use our tools he wouldn’t have given them to us and our race as we know it would ge extict hehee….

Hey ant, you wouldn’t happen to haven know of an article article about the kid and cheerleader in question would you????

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

No problem Ant Bank. Like I said, I’m familiar with your work. Besides I’m sure there are tons of things I wish I could take back. Glad that you didn’t get offend by my comments. It’s all good. No harm No foul…

By cp

January 23, 2009 5:36 PM | Link to this

I think the scariest part about Dwight is that he still has no low post moves. If this guy ever gets a low post game its going to be almost impossible to stop him down low….. I really haven’t watched too many Bucks games this season but we should win this one. They do however have size and we struggle playing teams with size… Redd is back and is playing well. I don’t know if Bogut is back or not as I said I really haven’t paid much attention to them..

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 6:13 PM | Link to this

all i can say is that he dunked on me and a few classmates from Mays and W.D. Mohammad a couple times at Southwest YMCA…. he and Javaris were running sets on us in there… the boy was ridiculously quick and explosive… he will be great and unstoppable if he can extend his game to 15 ft… out were Zo and Pat could play…

hey temptation is what it is… as a peer i can only wish him well, and continued success…

meanwhile… LETS GO HAWKS…!!! should be a good test tonight…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 6:39 PM | Link to this

I’m not too concerned about Gadzuric… if Josh Smith brings even his B- game today, Gadzuric will foul out in 15 minutes. Villanueva has been ballin’ though, and J-Smoove will probably have his hands full with him, although he doesn’t really use his size to bang in the paint much.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 23, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this

Marvin is back tonight. Al and Acie are both out. Andrew Bogut is out for the Bucks, missing his fifth straight game with a back injury.

By Ariose

January 23, 2009 7:05 PM | Link to this

Speaking of Marvin, I ran across this old article. It’s a good read if you have the time.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By rms

January 23, 2009 7:24 PM | Link to this

Thats a good thing that Bogut is out for the Hawks sake because Redd and Bogut was going to take it to the Hawks. Now its just going to be Redd and some player we havent heard of thats going to have a career year. That always happen to the Hawks.

By rms

January 23, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

Ant I remember that interview. I am suprised that never came up since the last time it aired. I thought I was the only that remembered that. I like Howard but I never hear him talk like that anymore. He defitnetly has a sense of humor that never went away. Thats the beauty of the NBA, you never know how these players are going to pan out, no matter how high they are projected. D. Williams had a awful rookie season with Utah but look at him now!

By Da Real Real

January 23, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

Been a minute since I’ve been on, but it feels good to be back! Yeah Sekou when I heard that Howard was the overall leading vote getter I was a little shocked. He’s easily a super star but I didn’t think he’d get more votes than guys like Lebron and Kobe. I don’t think its all about position neither because he theoretically shouldn’t need that many votes to be an all star at his position. I agree with you cp about the scary part being he doesn’t really have any low post moves. Once he gets a couple of go to moves he’s going to destroy people like Shaq did in his prime.

Back to our Hawks. I said a few weeks ago on the hawks hack blog that if Smoove would focus more on the low post that he’d do a lot better. I’ve always said that he has a decent enough hook shot that he could use it down there. Now we’re starting to see him just go to hole the more and trying to get to the basket which is what he has to do. It just amazes me to see how the Hawks play more like a team when a few guys go down. Woody even coaches better. If we ever can translate our play when guys are missing over to when we are 100% healthy we will be back to that team that went 6-0 to start the season. Alright Hawks, lets go out and handle our business tonight!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

Early on, the Bucks look every bit as unwilling to play defense as I thought they would be. Unfortunately the Hawks have given them two turnovers already.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

Luke Ridnour has played worse defense in this first quarter than any point guard I’ve seen all year. Bibby is nice but when you let him blow by you three times in 6 minutes you need some serious help defensively. If this keeps up Bibby is gonna have a new season high in something by the end of the game.

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

Za Za has stepped his game up… he and Bibby have found a little groove.. maybe he has summoned his inner Vlade DIvacs..!!

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this

Give the Bucks, Speedy and our 1st rnder for Charlie V. The are looking to cut salary and we need a big. Let’s get it done…

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this

We running tonight i see….

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 7:59 PM | Link to this

Milwaukee is not playing well at all in this first quarter. The Hawks have a real chance to pull away and build a double digit lead early in this game. For once I’d like to see them take advantage.

By t-hawk

January 23, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

Whats the link to watch the games online

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

Nique’ on Flip’s iso shot… (whisper) ” i dont know what that was”…

me either brother… wish they would try something else cause that set has about a 8.234% chance of being effective.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Step on their throats! I want to see a blowout!

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Wow. Who Flip the switch on!!!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

Haha this Bucks defense is HORRIBLE right now.

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 8:25 PM | Link to this

bibby is running the point tonight…

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Way to go JJ. Get nasty an just elbow the snot out of somebody. I’m glad you did it to Redd as well. Send him a message. Now only if we could pump some fear into Charlie V heart. I think a good hard foul will slow him down… If not, give the Bucks 2 1st rndrs for him…:)

By Sautee

January 23, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

Bibby’s had a good game this HALF!

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

Is JJ wearing his contacts tonite b/c he has thrown at least 3 passes directly to a Bucks player. My gosh..

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

Damn, I wouldn’t want to be a Bucks player in that locker room after this game. Even when the Hawks screw up the Bucks manage to screw up worse.

If it weren’t for Charlie V hitting every shot for no reason, this game would have been over a long time ago.

By Sautee

January 23, 2009 9:02 PM | Link to this

Enjoy this guys, this is vintage Bibby, in the 02,03 days. Wow!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

It took nearly three full quarters, but Nique finally said “heat check”.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks can be up by 15 or more at the end of this quarter, they should be able to put the game away early in the 4th and rest some starters. Hopefully.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this

The people in the crowd booing Tyronn Lue crack me up. Is he even worth it? Come on now.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

Najeh are they booing or are they saying LUE…..

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

Oh my, what an alley by Bibby to Josh… Rest assure CP and others, Josh is back to blocking shots…

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

good one Nique’, ” the superstar Damon Jones”….

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

I want to see the bench guys finished the game strong. The starter have done their part by getting a big lead. Now the bench players need to play hard and show woody why they deserve more playing time. To badd Acie is hurt b/c he could have gotten extended mins tonite…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

Haha good point Melvin… didn’t occur to my dumb azz that they could be saying “Lue”. Agreed on Acie Law too… I was about to type the same thing before I saw you had said it already.

Hilarious hearing Rathbun and Nique clowning Damon Jones.

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 9:35 PM | Link to this

Comeon Woody we are up 28pts. Let Mario and Randmo have the last 5mins of the 4th quarter… Give the FlipMo squad a rest. They did their job and played well tonite….

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

a much needed blow out…

By Melvin

January 23, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

Great win by the Hawks tonite. The team played excellent… Go Hawks…

By falcon21

January 23, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

Mike Woodson is the biggest horse’s azz in the NBA. He said my bench players do not play enough to put them in the game. What the fu%& is that?

By Ariose

January 23, 2009 9:51 PM | Link to this

I want more wins like this….

~Sir Liks A Lot~

By AtlFlavor

January 23, 2009 9:51 PM | Link to this

People around me were saying Lueeee. A game of 50’s. 50 points off the bench 50% from 3 57% from the field. Great Game. Best Game so far this year!

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

John Rocker is a fool…

Basically, last night, John proved he was everything I’ve said he was over the years,” Shapiro said Friday. “I saw him staring me up and down. I told him, ‘John, let’s be civil here, that was all a long time ago.’ *He told me, *‘It wasn’t that long ago, mother [expletive]. And right away, he pulled out the ‘Jew’ card.”

this was told to Steak Shapiro from 790 at the W Hotel gala… ya boy ZaZa was in the building too, swagged out, with a nice lil honey with him… some Euro model looking piece… check the photos…

I see why his game has improved…

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this

Mario has that ignorant playground game… the guy at the gym nobody wanted to guard cause you would get hurt.. out of control…

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this

by the way JOSH IS BECOMING AN ISSUE… HIS PLAY HAS BEEN BEASTLY !!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

Phoenix just got their asses kicked by Charlotte. I guess you can look at that either way… either they are slumping and the Hawks are catching them at a good time, or they are gonna be p** after this loss and take it out on the Hawks. Regardless, if the Hawks play as well as they did today they can beat anyone in my opinion.

By bigdave

January 23, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

hopefully this game will open eyes as far as what type of play yields good results… usually there arent too many times where more than 3 players touch the ball on an offensive possession… however, tonight i saw the ball swung nicely.. that makes teams work harder on defense and an athletic team such as ours becomes a nightmare to defend…

good unselfish play…

By Bozo

January 23, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

falcon21 - don’t get it twisted. This is what Woody actually said:

“I can’t rely on guys who haven’t played a whole lot of minutes,” said Woodson after Thursday’s practice. “You can’t expect Mario (West), Solomon (Jones), Randolph Morris and Thomas (Gardner) to come in and be world beaters.

“They haven’t played a whole lot of minutes. So I’ve got to put it on the guys who have competed the most for our ball club. Those guys have got to step it up and Josh Smith has been one of those guys.”

By rms

January 23, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Nice win Hawks, I like the way the team defended the pick and roll for a change. With a blow out win, I see why those guys are GLUED to the bench. They play with no rythm or enthusiasm at all. Those guys look horrible. Too bad for AC Law though, it would have been nice to see him prove that he was worth a 1st round pick!

By Big Ump

January 23, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

RMS

So the Bucks with Reed and some other player was going to take it to the Hawks Huh?

By Clark Dark

January 23, 2009 10:14 PM | Link to this

FIRE CLYDE !!

By falcon21

January 23, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

Good point Bozo, I posted on what on I heard and not what I read. Or did not read. My bad!!!

By Wood Dick

January 23, 2009 10:23 PM | Link to this

Dem Hawks be ballin’ - me tink J-Smoove play like dat blood clot rude boy.

By Bozo

January 23, 2009 10:30 PM | Link to this

falcon21,

It’s all good !!

By doc

January 23, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

missed the game but it seems the other guys got a butt kicking for a change.

bibby finally gets around to earning his money. heh heh

j smash is turing the tide against him. efficient game 24 points with 15 shots from the field. huge! and no 3 point attempts.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 23, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

Just think. A four seed. H** YEAH.

By hawkeye

January 24, 2009 1:13 AM | Link to this

i just hope bibby won’t leave us for houston. maybe asg doesn’t really have enough money to give bibs an extension and just really planning to rent him for 1 1/2 year all along.

By cp

January 24, 2009 1:20 AM | Link to this

Great win. I dint catch the game so I had to check the box scores. Josh seems to be playing under control like we all prefer him to. Bibby another great game. Bench stepped it up…. I think NBATV has a free preview going on this week for those who are interested.

By Dirty Birds

January 24, 2009 1:37 AM | Link to this

Smoove appears to be back to the guy he was at the end of last season in the playoffs and at the beginning of the season prior to his injuries. He’s our x-factor and if he keeps playing this way we’re going to continue to be a dangerous squad. We won tonight by 20 without Horford playing, and without JJ’s scoring. Talk about scary, that’s scary. Im interested to see how Woody coaches when he gets his full squad back…if he uses his bench like he has these past few games we’re going to be a very scary team

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 2:18 AM | Link to this

Wow! 10 games over .500 at 26-16!

Hawks blow out the Bucks on a night that Bibby and JJ weren’t shooting well. Everyone played tonight and JJ got a nice breather. Someone on the last blog asked for a blowout and the Hawks delivered one.

Good job team

Go Hawks!!

By Harry Hawk

January 24, 2009 2:51 AM | Link to this

Woody can get this team to the playoffs because the players will get this team to the playoffs. Look around the league. There ain’t many coaches doing masterful jobs with squads. Woody will only be as successful as his players are in policing each other and demanding more of themselves on the court. If the chemistry ever gets there (it certainly can’t be hurt by fighting through adversity and giving the bench some burn), the Hawks have a chance to win a series or two in the playoffs. The Hawks are no longer a chump squad.

Should be interesting to see what ASG/Belkin/God-only-knows-who does with Bibby this offseason.

By E. G.

January 24, 2009 3:05 AM | Link to this

LET’S NOT CELEBRATE TOO SOON!

I am glad the Hawks are winning, but I still realize that they are playing teams with small front court players.

I will really be glad when I see Josh Smith still driving to the basket when he goes up against big teams like Phoenix, Orlando and the Lakers. And even if they take away Josh Smith’s inside game, I don’t want to see him resort back to jacking up three point shot’s and long shots from the outside unless he has the ball with the shot clock running out.

Against the good teams, I also don’t want to see him resort back to trying to play the point on turnovers or fast breaks. If he shows me this consistency, guys, would can win the next five games and beyond.

ALL IT TAKES IS CONSISTENT DISCIPLINE BY JOSH SMITH BECAUSE HE’S REALLY OUR MAIN MAKE-A-DIFFERENCE PLAYER.

GO HAWKS!!!!

By Clyde

January 24, 2009 4:38 AM | Link to this

FIRE WOODY

By Clyde

January 24, 2009 7:01 AM | Link to this

I meant to say, RE-SIGN WOODY

By ray

January 24, 2009 7:10 AM | Link to this

Wow, what a nice win that was.

First of all, Mike Bibby was off the chain last night. 15 assists. All point guard, baby. Some of those passes were just sweet, especially the no-looks and the over-the-shoulder alley-oop to Josh Smith.

Second, Josh Smith was killing those guys. They had NO answer for him whatsoever. There were times I felt he was loafing a bit on either end of the floor, but he contested shots well (ended up with three blocks), scored inside the whole time, and grabbed 8 boards. Oh, and just the 1 turnover.

Speaking of turnovers, JJ had like 5 of them. Youch. While he did not have a very good game, I was glad to see him passing the ball and trusting his teammates. And they delivered.

The bench was awesome. Flip couldn’t seem to miss, as his turnaround and midrange jumpers were on. I was loving it, because that is what you want out of Flip: just scoring. His defense wasn’t bad either. Mo Evans was also a breath of fresh air offensively. The two of them alone combined for 43 points off the bench. Can’t ask for more than that.

Major kudos to Woody for getting his starters some serious rest, and his bench players some serious burn during this game. I really liked seeing that.

I just about fell out when Bob and Dominique started making fun of Damon Jones. Hey, he deserved it. World’s best shooter, my a$$. Dude can’t even get off the bench in Milwaukee for cryin’ out loud. Then when he does, he shoots a nasty clanker. Joe Alexander looked better than him, and that kid has a ways to go…Damon Jones looks like an NBDL reject. Ramon Sessions looks like the NBA player.

Good win. Let’s get one against Phoenix, too. We owe them a beatin’, don’t we?

By ray

January 24, 2009 7:27 AM | Link to this

Also, nice to see Marvin back on the court. He had a decent game and was a big help on the boards. We needed another guy with some energy who could play a little defense and get some rebounds. Marvin did just that with 11 points and 9 boards.

Again, Bibby was just amazing. I have to keep saying it: extend the man or say goodbye to him. All the smug comments about how good he was and he must be worth something because other teams are interested? Get ready to watch that come to fruition in ways you don’t want if management does what it typically does..

By Sautee

January 24, 2009 9:08 AM | Link to this

Bibby lately has been off the chain.

Interesting question, guys and girls….

If he can give us two or three years of THIS, what is he worth on a new contract?

Last night you see what the REST of the team can do, without a major contribution from JJ. Is it far fetched to imagine this team WITH Bibby but WITHOUT JJ?

Blasphemy or pragmatism?

By Sautee

January 24, 2009 9:17 AM | Link to this

Yes, the Hawks defended well last night. But the real eye opener was on offense where it seemed we had more motion and more cutters than we’ve had all year.

The question becomes, were we just taking what the Bucks pi$$ poor defense was giving, or have we turned the page to a new movement offense?

And if so, can Joe handle being less of a focus than before?

I’m not so naive that I think one game means “no more iso Joe”. And I know we’ll need him down the road to be our all star. But I’m hopeful that at the very least this opens Woody’s eyes to what movement on offense can bring. And that he can spread the load among more players.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 24, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this

Fourth Seed. Lock. It. Up.

By Melvin

January 24, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

Sautee, I think the market will play a major factor in Bibby resigning. With only 4 or 5 teams that will have major cap room to sign FA’s this summer. I can’t see a team offering him another max contract and that’s not a knock against Bibby play but more of what’s going on in the economy and with the super FA class of 2010, not sure how many teams are willing to spend that type of money on a 30 yr old PG this summer. Now I’m not saying that they won’t be offers on the table for Bibby but I don’t think he’ll receive max offers. So I think the Hawks will have the advantage this summer b/c their won’t be many competitors in the market and for those teams who’s willing to pay big bucks and are over the cap then they will have to come to the table with a trade package therefore the Hawks will receive compensation if Bibby don’t resign w/them. With that being said, I prefer we resign him. I think 3yrs/8-10 mil range would be fair for him.

Also, i think Marvin is in a similiar situation as Bibby. Who’s willing to offer him big bucks being that he’s been a little better than an average SF (number wise). Unlike Bibby his best years are in front of him so that may be attractive to some teams. 3yr/24mil for Marvin as we11.

However, I’m just an outsider looking in and giving my two cents.

By ILL-logical

January 24, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Good game-balanced scoring between bench and starters/front and backcourt;but the Bucks didn’t show up either.While the bench got some burn an incident that happened after the outcome seemed to be certain demonstrated to me where the current incumbant head coach could improve his leadership skills.

Solo had turned the ball over but hustled and the Hawks regained possesion. Instead of praising him for the hustle, he was berating him for the turnover.Now,mind you the outcome was settled and there was no impact on the score.Why not some positive re-enforcement; some creation of a non hostile work enviornment? You know ,make your employee feel valued.

At the half way mark of this super season there are still some areas of improvement: some that won’t be solved because of financial considerations,others will relie on the players personal comittment but the CIHC could/should be more part of the solution rather than the problem.

By Blast

January 24, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

CP, thanks for the info about NBATV free previews this week. Didn’t know that. Good looking out.

Dirty Bird, the Hawks won by 30, not 20.

I would pay Mike Bibby 10 mil a year easy.

Go Hawks, Go!

By Da Real Real

January 24, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

I think for me Sautee it would be hard for me to imagine this team without one or the other. After a game like last night the question you ask wouldn’t be that far fetched of a question. If it came down to one or the other it’d probably be a team with JJ and no Bibby before a Bibby team with no JJ. Both guys have had games this season where they’ve put the team on their back and won games. I’d really like to see this pair kept together for at least a couple of more years. Since Bibby has gotten here the team’s chemistry has really gel together…looks like they are having a lot more fun now (winning can do that to you). I just don’t trust our front office to much when it comes to handling that though so i guess we’ll see.

As for our offense last night I would say that we were clicking on all cylinders and beat a pathetic defense like we should. The thing that I like about our team now is that it appears these guys have finally realized what their roles on the team is. Everybody appears to play more in their zone this year then others and that comes from maturity. We’ve seen it break down at points this year, but they’ve been able to get back on track fairly quick.

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 11:51 AM | Link to this

Sup guys,

Glad to be able to show my face in the place.

I see my hawks are back on track and in firm control of the all important 4th spot in the east. Very important that we keep our lead over DTW. I said earlier that the goal should be to advance to the 2nd round of the playoffs. We are definately in good shape to do that. We need to stay in the 4th spot but even a slip to the 5th spot we still have a good chance to do that.

I see that Mr. AARP, lead-foot Bibby is gettn it done. Don’t know how a guy that old(31) can log all them minutes (39) and still be alive. Pure slave labor. I believe that My Boy Rick Sund will find a way to resign him. I heard talk of him reuniting with Adelman but why would he. Man is having the best year of his career and the ATL beats HOU by a long shot for a young Black Man in America. He’ll be here. Count on it.

Even Woddy is gettin some much deserved respect from the historical and undercover haters around here albeit begrudgingly.

“but I see more of him getting out of the way than I see him being the designer and leader of what is working”. What a Joke!!

On another basketball note: My Boy Monta Ellis returned last night and hasn’t missed a beat. Look for the Warriors to make a push for that 8th spot. Don’t know if they will get there but i’m so happy to see him healthy. Al Jefferson is still a beast. It would really be a shame if he was not chosen as an Allstar.

Clyde, I see you finally made it back from Katrina Land. You guys really made the SEC look bad. National Title, please. Ole Miss and LSU will be the favorites in 09-10.

Woody=COY

By Clyde

January 24, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

Samuel I’m glad to see you made it back. You were MIA a few weeks ago when the Hawks were on that losing streak. I guess a 30-point win will do the trick.

As for the Tide the new quarterback McElroy will turn some heads next year. We will play at the dome twice again next year.

Someone quit trying to use my name to post.

FIRE WOODY

By Joe Bling

January 24, 2009 1:05 PM | Link to this

Last night’s game was more evidence to support what I’ve believed for a long time. When Josh Smith plays under control and within his limits, this team is pretty potent. Josh is the key. Is it possible that he’s finally starting the get it?

By jlewis

January 24, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

People, don’t fall to in love with Bibby, remember, it’s a contract year……..All players start doing what they are capable of, but haven’t done in a while. Bibby will not command more than the mid-level exception in free agency. Also, Joe will be the 3rd most coveted free agent, take that to the bank, no pun intended.

By terrell barron

January 24, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

When was the last time a Hawks player had 15 assists? Thats what I want to see from Bibby. Not just jumpshots. And btw, I kept waiting for the Bucks to make a comeback, but it never happened. Wtf? Was that the same Hawks team? And why was Smoove and FlipMo still in the game when we were up by 25 points? That was a perfect time for the bench to get some significant min, but ole Woodrow waits until there’s only 2 freakin min. left in the 4th to clear his bench. Wow!! What a Coach!

By kwooden1

January 24, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

Great Game by the HAWKS! TERRIBLE game by the Bucks. Except for Villanueva no one on the Bucks could play. Great rebounding and execution on offensive. Bibby was as good as it gets with 15 assists in a little less than 30mins!! But overall the Bucks played terrible, I can’t remember how many layups they missed and how often they left the lane open.

As for tomorrows game, its going to be tough because Phoenix got it just like the Bucks did last night. Phoenix is going to come with energy and aggressiveness. The HAWKS are going to have to send everyone to the defensive boards! They are going to have to push the pace to keep Shaq from dominating the game. Phoenix didn’t look good at all against the Bobcats last night, slow with little execution. The HAWKS are going to have to execute and play with a lot of intensity.

GO HAWKS!!!

By ray

January 24, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

Sautee,

Very interesting query. I’m glad nobody has screamed blasphemy yet…but I won’t hold my breath, thinking somebody won’t. As for re-signing Bibby, I still think it’s highly presumptuous to think that it’s just a given (as some do). Hopefully it can be done, because as far as we know, nothing else has been done to solidify the pg position.

Melvin,

You could be right. I think Bibby will have some nice offers on hand, which means that unless he really wants to stay here, he could go just as easily. What makes me laugh is the folks that want to have it both ways. They smugly talk about how good he is (and he’s been great), then act like there’s no way in hell he could possibly end up elsewhere. Whatever…this is a business…we can only hope he sticks around. It wouldn’t be good for management to come in offering some lesser contract after he gets an offer from somebody else, is all I can say. But what do I know. I don’t talk to Rick on a daily basis. He’s not my Boy…

Samuel,

Well looky who dropped in. Where ya been? You know, if you’re going to make noise about your idol Woody, then at least spell his name right (or he’s going to kick you off of his entourage). I mean “Woddy?” Dude…But anyway, um….Bibby played 29 minutes last night, not 39, so that would explain why nobody was complaining about the minutes, now wouldn’t it? And, uh, he’s 30, not 31. You’re ahead by a few months (you wouldn’t be trying to rush him into AARP early, would ya?).

“but I see more of him getting out of the way than I see him being the designer and leader of what is working”. What a Joke!!

I’ll explain this one, just to be nice. We have not seen ball movement in our offense like this ever in Mike Woodson’s tenure. He has always been a walk-it-up-the-court type of guy, trying to promote a half-court offense that consists of Joe Johnson ISO plays more than anything else…by far. Woodson never demanded that there be more ball and personnel movement. We never heard that from him. It was just defense, defense, defense. Along comes Bibby, and in his first full season with us, he promotes and executes such wonderful ball movement, to the very point where we don’t need 25+ point nights from JJ to win. Add to that some quotes from your hero Mike Woodson himself:

This is what he said last year: “I want Mike Bibby to talk to me out there. If he doesn’t like what we’re doing, he has just to tell me, and we’ll change it.”

And then there was this year: ” He’s been good for me, too. Because I can come in there all upset and he will instantly say, ‘Hey man, relax. Settle down and relax. Everything’s going to be alright.’ And I need that. It’s reassurance for me that they have things under control in there as veterans.”

Both quotes have been gleaned from excellent articles written by your Cuz, so you know it’s legit.

What did those quotes say to you? This is not Woody’s offensive design, or you would have seen it before. We’ve never seen it before. And we know Woody does not change overnight. This is Bibby, and the effect that he has. He’s not just out there shooting the long ball. He’s also putting guys like Josh and Marvin in position to score in the best ways that they can. Josh should thank Bibby for over half of his 24 points from last night.

I’m not condemning Woodson for not designing this offense. I’m commending him for letting it run the way it does, because we’re winning like that. He could’ve chosen to be stubborn and kept to the ISO Joe plays, running the clock all the way down and then trying to score. Instead, he chose to let these guys do what they have shown they can do, as long as they don’t play too out of control. I’d say it’s working right now. Remember, this is the guy who kept saying we were going to get out and run, but then wouldn’t let it happen…kept slowing it down and not using our advantages. But he finally has relaxed a lot of that, thanks to Bibby.

If you still think this is a joke, then laugh it up. You’ll be the only one…

By ray

January 24, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

E.G., Jo Bling,

I’m not trying to argue, but there is another element to this. Somebody has to get Josh the ball where he can do the most damage. And that person or persons has to encourage him to continue doing what he does well. Mike Bibby has done that. JJ is starting to do it more. And it really has made a difference. Go to Smith early and often down low, and he produces. Not only that, but he doesn’t come out to the perimeter that much for scoring opportunities, because he doesn’t have to. He’s getting the ball down low, so he doens’t need to come out by the arc to get it.

I notice that when he’s playing as well as he did last night, he’s only coming out to the perimeter if it’s part of a play design (and it’s usually just so he can pass the ball), or because he’s not receiving it down low, and whoever has the ball is getting trapped out on the perimeter. So, he comes out to the ball. But if you notice from last night, he wasn’t trying to shoot it much from the outside, just get the ball moving again, get the offense reset, and/or set a screen. Zaza and Solo do the same thing, as does Marvin. It’s just that every now and again, Marvin and Josh will take the shot. But I notice that he’s taking it less and less.

Josh knows he’s an integral and important part of this offense. And he’s aggressive, so he’ll try to make things happen. Yelling at him to NOT do something is only going to go so far. Consistently getting him the ball when and where he can do the most with it, then encouraging the positive effect…that’s what we’re beginning to see more and more now. And that’s where all of these 20+ point games are coming from. It’s a good job by the guards to execute this way, and a good job by Woody to support and push it.

I especially liked Joe’s reaction last night. He was off (3-11), but instead of trying to force the issue (by taking 8 or 10 more shots), he sat back, scored when he could, and let Bibby and the fellas do their thing. He did force it to an extent (a team-high 5 turnovers), but more of that was simple sloppiness with the ball, not forcing plays.

By Macaroni Tony

January 24, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

I wonder when will that sorry about Josh Childers will come out.. Great gamae last night, I just wish we can get a killer attitude like that for the rest of the year…

By The Truth

January 24, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

My impressions and surprises about the game last night against the Bucks:

1) Impressed with the refinement of the 2-man pick-and-roll game between Bibby and Josh. This contributed to Bibby’s high assist number and Josh monster offense game. This pick-and-roll game may be the answer to the Hawks occasional struggling offense when perimeter shots are not falling.

2) Impressed with Flip finally getting his swagger back.

3) Surprised that JJ is still struggling on offense although it was a non-factor since the bench played so well.

4) Surprised that Solo is becoming foul prone like Zaza. When we are short at the center position, Solo need to learn how to play under control otherwise his game is developing in a positive way.

5) Surprised that Morris still didn’t get much playing time even in a 30-pt blow-out. I think he only saw about 2 minutes.

6) Surprised that the Buck’s coach pulled Villanueva so early in the third quarter since he was really the only offensive threat they had. Reid and Jefferson didn’t really come to play. That is why the game was a blow out; their best players became spectators early in the third quarter when the game was still on the line.

7) Surprised that some fans became bored of the blow-out and left early. I personally enjoyed the blow-out and stayed to the end. It was as if they are so use to drama with the Hawks, they don’t know how to behave when the Hawks is on the winning end of a blow-out.

8) Surprised at how good and how big those $1.00 hot dogs tasted. I got a chance to drink more beers for less.

By Melvin

January 24, 2009 3:47 PM | Link to this

Reports that Amare is on the trading block. Hawks fan would yall be interested in bring him to the ATL for maybe a deal that would be center around Big AL? What yall think??????

By Joe Bling

January 24, 2009 3:53 PM | Link to this

ray:

I totally agree with you. He definitely needs someone to get him the ball down there, but so far it’s working very nicely. I think having Horford out may turn out to be the best thing that ever happened to Josh - so long as he doesn’t revert to his old bad habits once Al returns. Josh playing down low has gotten him off the perimeter and removed the temptation to jack up those stupid shots. He did take one long bomb in the first half last night, but he got lucky and it went in.

Now he’s catching the ball low and putting it in, or drawing fouls. Or, he’s catching it on the wing or baseline and taking it to the hole. Or, he’s cleaning up offensive rebounds and putting it back. His scoring and rebounding numbers over the past few games have been phenomenal - and he’s getting almost all of his points deep in the paint. That’s what he has got to do and how he helps this team the most. Hopefully we’ll get to the point where he entirely ceases the stupid long shots that more often than not result in long rebounds and easy points for the opponent on the other end.

An added benefit is that the inside play seems to keep his whole focus together. He’s still intense, but not in a frantic way. That’s made him less inclined to make the boneheaded turnovers in transition that have plagued his game – and the Hawks – for so long. Control, Josh, control. And by doing that, the Hawks have been able to sustain runs and keep the momentum, which they have never been able to do when Josh is unfocused.

I have been coaching basketball (at a much lower level) for a long time, and I honestly believe that Josh Smith’s play is the most important factor to how this whole team performs. Last night we were able to rest our starters for significant minutes for the FIRST TIME all season! And it was all because Josh was in control and didn’t kill our momentum with dumb 20-footers and transition passes over people’s heads or at their feet. I just hope he keeps it up when Horford returns.

By ray

January 24, 2009 4:37 PM | Link to this

Jo Bling,

I definitely agree on the idea that Josh continue what he’s doing when Horford gets back. It can only help, and since both guys like to pass, they’ll pass to each other, making them more dangerous than ever.

I think only two things can derail this: the backcourt hogging the ball, and Smith going back to hanging out on the perimeter. We need to feed those two guys early and often, then let JJ and Bibby shred the defense when they start trying to collapse on Horford and Smith.

You could be right: he might be the key to this team staying as good as it is, and getting better. Either way, we need the inside prsence on offense. And we need it to be consistent. Lord knows we have enough jump shooters…But we’ve got to be consistent in getting those guys the ball. Got to be. I do NOT want to see us going back to our starting backcourt chucking up nearly 40 shots a game, and missing more than half…and that being the staple we live and die by. That won’t get us anywhere.

Melvin,

Again? Seems like Amare is always on the spot. I wonder if it’s really true this time. I don’t know what it would take to get him, or if he’s a good fit here. You can’t ignore talent like that, but he’s not much different than Smith in some ways: he needs a good pg to get him the ball where he can do the most damage. And Smith plays better “D.” For that matter, so does Horford. Horford doesn’t mind banging down low all game long, something Amare publicly abhors. The main difference is he does have a 15-foot jumper. I think maybe he’s about a half-inch to maybe an inch taller than Horford.

I don’t know man…an intriguing prospect, but you really have to wonder how he fits here, and if he’s a better fit than what we have already. Again, if he’s not willing to do what Horford’s doing now (playing center) for the money he’s going to command, then why trade Horford for him? In which case, you then consider trading Smith for him, and is that a good idea?

Yeah, I know, more questions than answers….sorry, LOL!

By ray

January 24, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

Of course, we’ll get to see as much of Stoudamire as we can handle this very evening….which might spark further review of this trade talk…

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

“Reports that Amare is on the trading block. Hawks fan would yall be interested in bring him to the ATL…”

Absolutely ‘YES”. Trade anyone except Al, JJ, and Bibby.I’d even throw in a couple of draft picks too.

By gypsyjoe

January 24, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

Melvin,

I also think Amare is a stud but to get him we would have to gut our core team. NO WAY. We are playing good B-ball now. I think we add to what we have. Maybe a Joe Smith and Rashad Macants. We could probely get them both cheap. They both never see the court. With Smith you get a big that can get boards and score. In Macants 1 more scorer off the bench. What do you guys think????

By ray

January 24, 2009 4:46 PM | Link to this

Melvin,

Don’t get me wrong: I like Stoudamire plenty. I just wonder how this fits us, and if it’s a better fit than what we’ve got. As it stands, Stoudamire gives us a 2-power forward frontcourt if we trade Horford for him. In other words, nothing changes in the position make-up itself. On the flip side, whereas Horford has given us 11.8 and 8.7, Amare gives you 21.3 and 8.0. Yeah, that’s a huge difference offensively.

So really, the next question is who do you give up in addition to Horford for Stoudamire, because we all know a straight up swap isn’t going to happen. It would be a steal if it was, because Stoudamire is an all-star, and Horford is not. And I can only imagine what a frontcourt of Smith and Stoudamire would do to opponents. I’d still be looking for a rugged guy to put in between them to help with the dirty work.

Then the next question is how to keep Bibby, who would be essential to keeping both guys busy in the paint with the ball.

Still, the possibilities (if they exist), can be intriguing…

By Hawkenstein

January 24, 2009 4:50 PM | Link to this

Ray, both posts were excellent, first-class.

By ray

January 24, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

Kirk,

I thought you might see it that way, and wondered if you’d weigh in. Whatever happened to DFWI? I mean, we are 26-16 and shouldn’t be talking about trading people…right? Just poking at ya! :) As always, I believe in “if it makes the team better, then do the deal.” That goes for trading Smith as well.

Obviously, if Horford is a guy you don’t want traded….then Smith is your pick to get sent away, as not much else makes sense (can’t see Phoenix going for Marvin and a couple of draft picks). But what happens if the Suns aren’t interested in anything that doesn’t involve Horford? Is he worth holding onto so much that you nix a deal for Stoudamire? I’m not being pretentious, just really wanting to know your opinion.

I would be interested in seeing a bunch of opinions on the subject. Some people have stated a desire to trade Horford, rather than Smith, if going for a guy like Stoudamire (or some other big). Really, we haven’t explored the idea in a while. This could make for interesting talk, even if it’s just a pipe dream…

By Missing???

January 24, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

I saw Al sitting on the bench, but i didnt see Acie at all. Did something happen????

By ray

January 24, 2009 5:07 PM | Link to this

Thankyou, Hawkenstein.

Kirk,

Also consider that while I talked earlier about making Horford as part of the trade package for Stoudamire, it was to address Melvin, who mentioned the trade centering around Horford, not Smith.

The fact is, I’d prefer to keep Horford and let Smith go in a deal like that (much as it pains me to say so, or to see Josh go if this were a real possibility).

I really like Horford’s blue collar game, and see where he can contribute more than he does now. He’s a smart player with a relentless motor. That, and you absolutely must have a guy who’s willing to do more of the low post banging. Between Stoudamire, Smith, and Horford….that’s Horford. Amare doesn’t want to, and Smith doesn’t have the instincts or the desire. Horford’s a team guy and will do whatever it takes.

Again, if a trade was done and our frontcourt was comprised of Smith and Stoudamire, I say we then look to add a rugged guy who is there JUST for the dirty work. In other words, we would have the same issue Phoenix has had (and tried to compensate for) for years….prior to Shaq’s arrival.

But hey, I’m sure there’s a very solid and compelling argument for the opposite, and I would like to see one for either.

By ray

January 24, 2009 5:16 PM | Link to this

Here’s a mildly interesting tidbit, stats-wise:

Amare Stoudamire averages more turnovers, fewer assists/blocks/steals, and more fouls per game than does Josh Smith. However, he shoots a greater percentage from the field, attempts far fewer long balls, and shoots very well from the free throw line.

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

ray

Nothing has happened. Remember DFWI arose in a different context. The discussion then was about rotation and allocation of minutes and I raised the question about how that would effect the players who are currently getting it done.

Now comes Melvin with a trade proposal, a different animal altogether. I still ask the bottom line question of how does it effect those(who would remain after the trade) and I would answer it would enhance their play and improve the team overall by addressing the undersized front line issue. It also enhances our running game, gives us a legit low post threat, and defensively we get a guy that can block shots.

So the DFWI concept allows for improvements to be made to the team.

So I say Marvin, Josh, Acie, and up to 2 #1’s(protected up to 5-10spots) for Amare and call it a day.

Now I wouldn’t approach them with a deal that rich, I would start with Smith and a pick and work from there.

They cannot have Al, that is a deal breaker for me, same with JJ and Bibby.Smith has played well and the Hawks are a better team with him on the court. And my he sure can run and jump! :)

Bottom line is, and I know this is not a new idea about addressing the undersized frontcourt, but Amare allows Horford to move to PF where I believe his games gets even better. That’s two young and very talented players for the next decade. For this reason alone I trade Josh Smith as quickly as I could get him out of town.

Go Hawks!!

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 5:50 PM | Link to this

ray, those stats make sense to me. Given the system Phoenix ran until Porter took over, I would expect to see those numbers. More run and gun equals more opportunities for turnover and with Nash, the opportunities for assists are decreased as well.

I guess everyone is still sticking with how they felt this Summer when that Amare rumor was circulating, but I think this rumor of availability could be true.

Go Hawks!!

By ray

January 24, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this

Kirk,

I honestly was just picking on you about the DFWI, as I knew it came in a different context altogether. I have a bad habit of trying my hand at impromptu “accupuncture”, so don’t pay me any mind.

Bottom line is that we agree on the Stoudamire subject, and how it relates to the team (specifically Horford). Also, can’t argue with your thoughts on how to acquire Stoudamire (and how much is too much). Sund would have to like the idea of acquiring Stoudamre, you would think….

By gypsyjoe

January 24, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

I was checking out the Suns ESPN board. Man they are realy talking about trading Amare. There are alot of the fans over there want to get rid of him. Alot of them are blaming the losing on him.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 24, 2009 6:20 PM | Link to this

Amare’s offensive stats are inflated as a result of playing with Steve Nash, and he’s one of the worst defenders in the league at the power forward position. I’m not surprised he’s on the trading block… Nash will leave and Shaq will retire in a few years, at which point he will be exposed as not being good enough to be a franchise player. There’s a reason the Suns kept losing in the playoffs — no matter how good you are offensively, if your two best players can’t play any D, you are not going to beat elite teams. Call me a hater if you want, but I wouldn’t include Josh or Al in a package for Amare.

Now if someone like Al Jefferson were to become available, hell yeah I’d strongly consider a trade involving either J-Smoove or Horford.

As far as keeping Bibby vs. Joe… I’d never commit to building a team around the older player instead of the younger player when in doubt. Joe is still the one guy on this team who can get his shot against anyone. But Bibby is definitely proving his worth with every game, and there’s really no on-the-court reason why the Hawks shouldn’t bring him back at the end of this season.

That said, last night’s offensive movement was keyed by Bibby being able to blow by Luke Ridnour on a regular basis. Pretty much every other NBA point guard plays better defense than Ridnour, so I’m not holding my breath waiting for last night’s performance to become a trend. But there were a lot of other good things the Hawks did yesterday, like posting up Josh Smith and anticipating passes when on defense. Things like that can definitely improve the team’s performance going forward.

To the person jacking my screen name at 11PM yesterday and 10AM today, if you are going to use my screen name, shouldn’t you at least say something stupid to damage my “rep” or whatever? Otherwise what’s the point?

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this

Don’t get me wrong,acquiring Stoudamire in the middle of the season isn’t a risk-free proposition. I’m not at all sure how team chemistry would be effected. There’s a reason the Suns are presumably willing to trade such a talent and any desiring team would be wise to be mindful of those reasons.

But I think it’s worth the risk, and I wouldn’t give up this year’s pick unless I just had to;but replacing a #3 is the easiest of all positions I would think.

Go Hawks!!

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 6:30 PM | Link to this

Woody,Woddy,

Bibby,Bobby,

Nitpicking about spelling again. 30,31, either way, the man is not over the hill like yall were suggesting a few weeks back. He’s looking younger every day.

To the ball movement issue. Yall act like Woody was in the timeouts and practice saying, “lets ISO JJ, no body pass the ball and nobody shoot”. I doubt it. It’s allways about the players. Coaches can talk til they’re blue in the face but until you have players to buy in, it don’t happen. JJ is finally buying in and it’s working. Simple as that.

I would not do Amare for Josh. We get Amare and we don’t resign Bibby. I’d rather have JJ, Bibby and Josh.

Josh Smith is the key to this team. I’ve been saying that all along. He works down low and he becomes an allstar and we win. He continues to jack up 3’s and jumpers beyond 15ft and we lose.

I missed all the good Obama talk too. I made my students watch every second of it. Good stuff. Especially the balls afterwards. Sure was refreshing to see some Rhythm and Soul for a change.

Barack is getting off to a good start. Closing the Gitmo Joint. Now if he can reign in them murderous thugs in the Israeli government. That will be his true test. Even more so than the economy IMO.

Woody=COY

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 6:33 PM | Link to this

Najeh, I’m not calling you a hater, you are pretty level headed, but I can’t believe you’d part with either Smith or Horford for Al Jefferson.

Smith yes, Al, no way. There are only a handful of people I’d trade Josh Smith for and only 2-4 I’d trade Al for(Kobe,LeBron, Howard, Yao).

Go Hawks!!

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 6:44 PM | Link to this

I must have missed that on. Hell yea. Al Horford for Al Jefferson. Are you kidding me. That’s a no-brainer. Jefferson is an allstar. Horford is a solid player but no Al Jefferson. Come on Kirk.

By doc

January 24, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this

just say no to any deal for amare. jj didnt get along with him in phoenix. i doubt he has changed his opinion by now.

kirk, did you really say marv, acie, josh and 2 ones for amare? that sounds as bad as the one for stain island. you were kidding, right?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 24, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

Kirk, I love Smith and Horford too. Like you said there are only a handful of players I’d consider trading them for. But in Al Jefferson, you have a guy who is the same age as Josh Smith, a legit big man who can anchor the low post on both ends of the floor, and maybe most importantly, is signed to a below-max long term contract. I wouldn’t trade both Smith and Horford for him, no way. But one or the other? Yeah, I probably would. If the Hawks had Bibby, Joe, and two Als, or Bibby, Joe, Josh and Al Jefferson as their core going forward, I think they would be at least as good if not better than they are now. That’s not a knock on either Smith or Horford — it’s just that I think Jefferson is that good.

But regardless, I just brought his name up as an example of a big man I’d be willing to trade for. I haven’t heard any rumor of him being available, and I’d be surprised if the rapidly improving T-Wolves were interested in trading him.

By ILL-logical

January 24, 2009 7:05 PM | Link to this

What is this I’d trade Josh before i’d trade Al stuff about? Al is a good player who MAY be a better 4 IF and only IF the current incumbant head coach allows it.

Josh is better playing out of position NOW and if the Hawks ever get a coach who plays him at his natural spot-3-then the sky is the limit.

Don’t get it twisted, just because you have personal differences with a player don’t confuse effort with ability.

BTW, good piece SS on Josh Childress-very insightful.Makes me wonder who the second player(other than salim) who spoke against the CIHC in the 2007 interviews with Mr. Sund?

By The Truth

January 24, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

Some interesting chatter for all you folks that think Amare would be a good deal for the Hawks

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 7:46 PM | Link to this

ILL-Logical,

So how is moving Josh further from the basket gonna make him better? I thought we were all in agreement that Josh is better the closer he is to the basket.

Sorry but his best position is where he is right now. On the block both offensively and defensively.

Woody=COY

By ray

January 24, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

Kirk,

I hear you. Any big move like acquiring Amare is a chemistry risk. And he doesn’t have a very light contract, if I recall correctly. I’m actually not sure what he makes. But if we’re moving that many guys to get him, I’d want something in return besides JUST him. Of course, I’m not sure how all of that would work money-wise…But I hear you: I think this Amare talk is for real this time. I do wonder why Phoenix wants to let him go?

We both know fame is a fickle thing. As for Amare’s stats, the turnovers and what not definitely are typical of a fast paced offense. However, Porter has them playing half-court more than anything now, so we really can’t knock Amare’s stats, which are still 21ppg and 8rpg. A total coaching change, and he still does that? He must be doing something right, even with a good pg. I don’t think the talent can be denied.

Also, while people dig on him for his defense…it’s not like it can’t be improved. As I recall, Raja Bell was the main (and just about only) defender on that squad, along with Kurt Thomas, prior to the recent Shaq era. Both are gone now, and Phoenix struggles on defense once more. People act like Amare was on a team of defensive types when he’s been playing for D’Antoni the entire time….who we all know didn’t give a rat’s butt about defense. Put Amare on a squad where the coach has been preaching defense, and most of the squad is in line with it…and you may see differences. Or not. Who knows. As you say, could very well be worth the risk. Dude scores and rebounds on the all-star level, I know that. We saw Marvin improve his defense…it’s not like Amare can’t do the same thing.

Najeh,

A very compelling argument. Especially considering that Jefferson actually has the size/weight/fortitude to play center. But as you say, he’s not being shopped. And while McHale is a moron in the front office, being on the sidelines has to have taught him SOMETHING…one would think. I don’t see that meal ticket leaving anytime soon. But then again, who’s to say the guy has the patience and loyalty that Garnett had for so long?

Ill-logical,

I’m not looking at this from a personal standpoint whatsoever. I don’t really want to see Smith or Horford go. What I’m thinking about is making tandems work to the max. Without Horford, we only have one big with enough weight/size to do the dirty work down low, and that would be Zaza. Do you want him starting at center all the time? And if so, then who is the back-up center, eh? RandMo??

My point is this: if doing a deal for Stoudamire, who will be left to do the dirty work in the post? Stoudamire has never played like that, for all the talent he has. He’s not comfortable doing it, and lacks the desire. Smith is not much different. He’s just NOT a banger, though he’s effective in the post in his own ways. And he’s never going to play center for 30+ minutes a night, every night. So if you MUST make the deal, is it smarter to deal a guy like Josh, or like Al? I say it’s better if Al stays either way, but I could be wrong. Has nothing to do with personal preferrences, which makes no sense in the first place. I’ve argued in favor of Josh Smith more times than has been popular.

However, a tandem of Stoudamire and Smith cannot be ignored. But you will still need that rugged player down there WITH them that will not worry about scoring as much (since they’ll pretty much take care of that part), and will do whatever blue-collar stuff that needs to be done.

So really, it could work either way. But either way, you have got to have that guy with the hard-hat and lunch pail who goes right to the post to do all the bangin’ and what not. If you don’t, then you need to be a team that outscores everybody and/or plays the most suffocating defense out there. We don’t have all the personnel necessary for the latter, and the former requires a different coach than we have now. So again….which works better-Smith/Stoudamire or Horford/Stoudamire? And why?

Samuel,

So what was Woody saying during all of those timeouts? Yeah, it was that damn JJ’s fault. Woody’s been telling him for YEARS how to do things. Amazing how he’s stayed on the floor for so many minutes every game, every season, making Woody talk until he’s blue in the face, before finally, magically listening in the fifth season. Wow. What ever possessed him to keep running those ISO plays and holding onto the ball for so long…for 4 years straight. Gosh, I didn’t know he was so hard-headed. I wonder why nobody thought of this before?

So Josh is the key to the team winning big. And here all this time I was thinking it was Bibby and the nominated COY….

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

Samuel I think Al stays because he doesn’t need the ball as much as Smith does to thrive. With a legit #5 the ball is going to go through the post more often than it does now, and Smith is use to being the first low post option and that will no longer be the case with an Amare or Al Jefferson.

Adaptability to change is why I would trade Smith and not Horford.

doc

I’ve already stated that we would be wise to be midful of why the Suns would trade this guy. If it’s not injury related then I make this trade because Amare is an All-Star in the East, and he’s young and I see he and Horford here for a decade.

Najeh

I can’t argue with you about Jefferson’s skills, you are correct. However, Amare is playoff tested. He has been deep into the playoffs and gotten it done. I’ve seen him hit big shots in big games against tough teams. I don’t know that about Jefferson and so he comes second until I see him establish a good playoff record.

No matter the sport, I place a high value on veteran players who are battle tested and proved they can raise their game to another level. When you find such a veteran and he’s still very young, I call that foundational and I pay a steep price to get him.

(Note to the Braves: Bring back Andruw, he knows how to win)

ILL-logical

I don’t hate Smith at all. I acknowledged his play and importance to the team. If I hated him then I would be as particular about who I trade him for. But I only trade the guy for maybe 6-7 players?

As for the coaching? Well according to many on here, including you, the winning is all the players doing and the losing is all the Head Coach’s doing. So following that blog logic, it would make even more sense to trade for Amare because it improves the talent. Improve the players, improves the winning, if we follow blog logic.

Either way, I’d rather be in a position to acquire a coach than a player.

I don’t hate

By ray

January 24, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this

Doc,

Can we be sure of that? Is there truth to it, or just error-net rumor? I don’t remember seeing much about that, so I’m just asking.

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

The Truth

Uh, well there are some people who will tell you that Josh Smith has some noticeable flaws in his game. So we trade one flawed, but playoff tested player for another and we fix our frontcourt weakness.

Also, it is not uncommon for players to leave one team tainted, and do well or even thrive on a new team. I think it’s a coaching thing. We didn’t hear these issues under the previous coach. Now all of a sudden Porter comes in Amare a problem?

I’m not buying it. Trade him to the Hawks please.

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

The Truth,

Interesting article, and interesting blog comments that followed it.

You know what I see? I see people who previously loved Stoudamire..less than a year ago. I see people who don’t take into account the coaching change, and subsequently a complete change of playing style. I see Shaq becoming the focal point on offense in the post, with Amare getting far fewer screen-and-roll opportunities, and fewer opportunities to score overall. Amare was THE MAN down low. Now Shaq is. Amare isn’t adapting well, and I don’t think it’s all him. He went from a feature player to a guy that I don’t think the coaching staff has figured out how to use. It happens.

Am I saying that he is a guy who is totally innocent and has had a great attitude all along? Nope. I doubt the truth of that, as times must be tough for him. Again, people act like he and Nash were the only defensive liabilities on the team. What a joke…D’Antoni didn’t care too much for defense. Just how well is his Knicks team defending, eh? Exactly.

As for being mindful of the Suns trading somebody, this is something that definitely bears thought, but you have to consider something else: reactionary measures. That’s precisely what brought them Shaq…a panic attack that saw Dallas trade for Kidd after Gasol went to L.A. Not only did it not make that much sense, but it stalled the Suns, and was part of the advent of the departure of D’Antoni. By the time these guys get it back together, Shaq won’t have anything left to give them, and they won’t be going anywhere, having changed their approach around him and Porter. Not saying that Porter is a bad coach, or that Shaq is a better player. But these guys are clearly now further away from competing for the West finals than they were a year ago.

Also recall that this is the same team that saw fit to let Joe Johnson go. Some of the comments on that blog bemoaned that fact even NOW. Now the fans want to talk defense (something that wasn’t preached in the D’Antoni era, I don’t care what anybody says), and they turn on Stoudamire, because surely he must be the problem.

Suns management is known for reacting to things (like the weather). Perhaps we should take advantage. Perhaps not. But I wouldn’t shy away solely on the fact that they want to shop Amare.

I don’t know about the “trade for Stoudamire, can’t afford Bibby thing.” Are we now building around Bibby? Just sayin’….

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

Ray,

You don’t sit your best player. Did Phil sit jordan or Kobe? No, he let them play through it until they began to trust their teamates. Did Brown sit LeBron. No. LeBron gets Mo and he gives it up more.

JJ has not played with anybody he could trust to score the ball. He now has that player in Bibby. Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder and my Blind Boys from Alabama can see that.

Woody=COY

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Kirk,

I agree. Upon reading the comments from that blog, I also saw people complaining about Amare (and rightfully so on some issues) as they do here with Josh Smith. As you say, one set of flaws for another. But that is the question. I still would like to know where this JJ/Stoudamire situation is an issue…perhaps it was Marion, I don’t know. All I know is that JJ didn’t want to remain where he was. But then, he was a 4th option on that team, offensively. Not sure what that has to do with not liking Stoudamire, but whatever. For all I know, he may not like Smith all that much. Dude’s not easy to read, and we don’t reside in the locker room, so what do we know?

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 8:23 PM | Link to this

I’m not worried about Amare’s defense. He’s young and will adjust nicely to the East. D’Antoni didn’t emphasize defense that’s why they could never get over the hump. But Amare took and made big shots in big games and he did it multiple times.

No matter the sport, from hockey to basketball, you need playmakers. And if you can get a clutch playmaker, you make the deal.

As far as the contract, well I say to ASG MTFT and do it now! Don’t wait, the Suns might change their minds.

A Stoudamire deal has the potential to go like the Peavy negotiations went for the Braves. I could see the Suns continuing to ask for additional pieces until it becomes untenable for the Hawks.

Go Hawks!!

I wonder if it’s injury related, that’s my greatest fear in all this?

By The Truth

January 24, 2009 8:26 PM | Link to this

kirkinga I also agree that coaching is a factor in a player’s performance. It manifests itself in different ways however. With the Sun’s previous coach, who never really stressed defense (and still doesn’t in NY); Amare flaws went under the radar. Now with the new coach Porter who is preaching defense, Amare flaws are becoming notice. Can they be corrected with a new team? Sure, it would be about Amare’s attitude to accepting and embracing change. He is only 26 years old with still a lot of up side. He is a natural PF at 6’10 246 lbs. To keep him at that position would be a factor as to which Hawk player the trade would involve.

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

Samuel,

It’s called sarcasm. Ask Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and your blind boys from Alabama. I’m sure they saw it…

All I’m doing is taking your arguments and turning them back on you. You say it’s all about the players, that it doesn’t matter how hard the coach tries. Okay, so then what makes Woody COY, if all it took was JJ “buying into it” and Bibby coming along to give JJ somebody to trust and pass the ball too? And how come the new guy (Bibby) had no problems passing the ball to everybody? By THAT logic (the logic YOU are providing), all the credit goes to your Boy Billy, not even your Boy Sund, and to Joe for “finally buying into it.” Still trying to figure out how Woody is the master technician in all of this by THAT logic…

Though I have no problem saying he deserves some credit for the team’s winning ways. I realize that won’t be enough to get me into his entourage like you, but I’ll just have to deal with it…that was more sarcasm, by the way…

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

Kirk,

Agreed again (we’re going to set a record here, I think…hee hee). Amare would adjust easily (hell, Boris Diaw did, why wouldn’t Amare). Funny how so many people forget that D’Antoni was never concerned with defense (it was an afterthought at best). People also forget that this is why the Suns kept trying to get a defensive player in the post alongside him (it was Kurt Thomas at one point, Brian Skinner at another). Well, not a problem here. We already have two guys who can do that, and whichever stays would do just fine next to him (although when it comes to going toe to toe with opposing teams’ bigs, I go with Horford every time, he’s got the right mentality and natural skills).

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this

The Truth,

Yep. And such an objective point of view is critical. You have to come up with the best fit, in the end. The best fit for the future, and not just the “now” because we are not competing for a championship this year, or likely next. I don’t like saying it, but Amare is no center, and it would most likely not be smart to play him as one. That points to keeping one guy….

By ray

January 24, 2009 8:42 PM | Link to this

But see, here’s the big trick. Where does Stoudamire WANT to go? The trade talk is probably serious enough, but does he want to go to a team, with a coach that emphasizes defense, and won’t want to run the way Amare wants to run? He may lobby for a trade to New York.

Also, I think some article said something about him being able to opt out in 2009-2010 or whatever….and you know he’s looking for max contract. This may not be so close to feasible after all, but what do I know?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 24, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

“And while McHale is a moron in the front office, being on the sidelines has to have taught him SOMETHING…one would think.”

That’s a good point. Strangely McHale has actually turned out to be a pretty good coach, even though he’s a horrible GM, and the more Al Jefferson continues to produce the less lopsided the KG trade looks.

By The Truth

January 24, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

ray

Copy that!!

By kirkinga

January 24, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

“But see, here’s the big trick. Where does Stoudamire WANT to go?”

Yes, time to agree again. This is what I was getting at when I said this could go the way the Jake Peavy negotiations went for the Braves.

As more time went by and along with some rather weird comments attributed to his agent, it became an open question as to whether Peavy wanted to play here or in Chicago(where he’ll end up in the very near future).

Amare doesn’t have a no-trade clause like Peavy’s so it will be easier moving him to a team not of his first choice. But it still matters where he would like to go.

As far as personality clashes, well I believe winning smooths over alot of that stuff. Then again, the Suns are winning and having issues as well.

It could be the Suns don’t want to pay him into the future, they want to position themselves for 2010 like so many other teams.

Finally, I’m going to keep harping on this, but Amare comes up big in big games. It’s hard to add players like that to your team because they don’t come available that often at his age.

I like the idea of having at the end of the game JJ, Amare, or Bibby taking the final shot than I do JJ, Josh,and Bibby.

Go Hawks!!

By Samuel

January 24, 2009 9:25 PM | Link to this

Ray,

Your arguments are becomming very silly. You really need to step away from this thing for a while and consentrate on your Real Job, if you still have one.(I really can’t see how)

So, that’s what cops do on them laptops.

Woody=COY

By keen observer

January 24, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

Glad to see Coach Todd get some props. My sources tell me he is knowledgeable,a great communicator, and well respected as a professional. A longtime assistant(once interim coach of the Clips), players throughout the league have high praise for the man. His college teams played a D’Antoni type game. GM’s would be wise to look at him as a head coach.

By rms

January 24, 2009 10:40 PM | Link to this

Big Ump OK I admit it I was wrong. It was the Hawks that took it to the Bucks. I’ll admit my error and be a man about it. But hey, at least I was wrong though.

By Astro Joe

January 24, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this

One thing to be mindful of regarding Amare, he has an early terminating option at the end of the 09-10 season. So there is NO reason to even consider trading Smith (with four years left on his deal this summer) for a one year rental.

By Melvin

January 24, 2009 11:52 PM | Link to this

Good comments to the Amare trade proposal. I agree with many of you that the trade would be center around which combo would be best going forward for the Hawks (Amare/Horford/Smith). As Ray said, Amare is intriguing but I’m with Doc. I wouldn’t breakup this team chemistry for Amare. You can’t argue with his stats but numbers don’t tell the whole story. He’s a great screen and roll guy but doesn’t have a great back to the basket game and his defense is suspect. He use his quickness and athleticism to score on his opponents in which I think will be Josh bread and butter going forward. If I had to trade for Amare I would send AL packing. No knock against Al but I think Josh ceiling is higher than AL. Agreed with Ray when he said Al’s is warrior that plays the game with a high IQ who doesn’t mind banging for 48 mins. However, I look no further to the team record without Al(4-2) vs the record without Josh(6-6) to support my decision to keep Josh over Al. Also add in the fact that Acie and Marvin has miss some games during the same stretch that Al been out…. With all that said, I would not trade Al nor Josh for Amare at this point. I think this team has earn the right to see how far they can progress before breaking them up….

By MannyT

January 25, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

Sautee I agree with Melvin. Bibby’s best deal is probably here. The tricky part is finding the total value and number of years that works for both sides.

kirk, ray, et al Amare doesn’t come free. Just to match salaries (Amare about 15 mil) you would probably move Josh + a non minimum player or 3 players including Zaza & Marvin. You better not be wrong if you make that deal. You have to add a lot of salary to a Horford deal which means you give up a lot more than Al. The cteam chemistry and the money say DFWI.

I think our best chance at long term improvement is to look at moving a player or two and our 1st round pick for a solid proven big. It could involve a sign & trade with Marvin

Najeh I am with you. Al Jefferson is the MAN! He is why that KG deal got done. Al gives you 20 and 10 without any help. Did it in Boston, does it in Minny. I’d trade any frontcourt player we have for Jefferson. It is as likely to happen as Beyonce leaving Mr. Carter for some bum.

BWAF

By ray

January 25, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this

Samuel,

Ever notice how I never come at you about YOUR profession, regardless of how you show yourself to be on this blog? Seems like you’d have the class and courtesy to do the same. Guess not. Sounds like you get frustrated easily when you get your own nonsense crammed back into your prodigious mouth. By the way, I was at home when I wrote that, so talk what you know. I don’t work around the clock, and I do have days off. And I’m good at my job, thank you, or I would not have been promoted. Who’s getting silly here? And cop-hate is nothing new. So instead of coming with some actual basketball knowledge, what other inane personal insults and self-contradicting arguments will you spew forth?

Even now I won’t stoop so low as to assume that I know how you perform on your job, or hurl insults at it. I’d really have thought you could do better, but apparently unlike Obama NO, YOU CAN’T.

By doc

January 25, 2009 9:16 AM | Link to this

ray saw the nnumbers by amare good yes but it doesnt make sense to go after a guy lik that and give up on or two guys as kirk suggested that can each alone make those kinds of numbers if given the chanc and dont come with severe baggage both physicaly and emotionally. arent those pretty close to what josh dllivers in a system that doent come close to feeding him and one designed to hold the ball longer to keep scores down and limit the other teams possessions? the idea of trading jsh straight up at what he costs for amare at his diva expense card would be huge. again i say just say no!

if marvin is truly having headaches still over one week from the concussion he received there is no way he should be on the court risking injury. if the next one occurs before he is healed the the repercussions are magnified over the first injury. even a minor tap with an elbow cold cause significant injury. i really hope he is not truly playing under those circumstances.

any coaches of young people better know the concussion protocol well or they are exposing kids to huge risk that may not show until thirty years later. ask the nfl types with alzheimer’s in their 50’s. oh yeah they forgot. the kids arent professionals, even if they are they should know it well. cognitive function is precious.

By ray

January 25, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Kirk,

Agreed. Amare has and does come up big in games. In big games, at that. I think he’s really out of his element right now…and has you harp on the former point, I harp on the fact that he is still averaging All-star level numbers. I didn’t quite get the Peavy negotiations comment because I haven’t been following the Braves nearly as closely as I have in years past. A quick referrence to what you were saying shows that your analogy was pretty much spot-on. Nice job.

Melvin,

That’s what makes it such a good subject of discussion, I think. Also, on the subject of us missing Horford vs. missing Smith: It’s possible that we have an uneven comparison in light of the fact that we have missed Al for only 6 games, whereas we missed Josh for 12. Add to that some other factors, such as when we were missing either guy. With Josh, it was early in the season, and with Al, it was closer to (and during) the half-way point.

Could it be that we learned how to play better without a key player by the time Horford was laid out with an injury? Could it be that we struggled so badly without Smith because we had not yet learned to play well without a key player (this was only 5 games into the season, not 30-something games)? Would we see similar results now if the situation was reversed, or not? While I wouldn’t want to find out the hard way, I have to wonder if this isn’t something that calls for a bit of scrutiny.

Good teams find ways to win, even when they’re not at full strength, and I think we’ve found ways to do that. It’s encouraging that we did manage to play .500 ball without Smith, and above-.500 ball without Horford. Either way, we weren’t losing overall. Good signs, for sure.

Astro Joe,

That was what I was trying to get at in my 8:42 post, but could not remember the particulars. Thanks for the clarification.

Najeh,

I have to wonder if McHale’s ability on the sideline is fueled by talent, desperation, or both? LOl…And here’s another thing: the KG trade does indeed look less lopsided, but when will the Kevin Love/OJ Mayo/Mike Miller/whoever else was involved trade look better? Your thoughts on that, please sir, as I am interested in your point of view on the subject.

MannyT,

I knew you’d come to the rescue with the numbers. I was floundering in that area (as always). Chemistry killing is something we definitely want to avoid, if we can. And the risk, both money and chemisty, is well-recognized. But as I said, it still makes for great discussion, I think.

I can’t argue that our best chance at improving over the long term is trading a player or two (plus pick) for a solid big. And Marvin is probably the most likely involved guy in a lot of cases when you’re talking sign and trade…

And Jefferson IS the hot ticket. He’s going nowhere…I think…

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 10:30 AM | Link to this

This chatter has been going on for a while, i spoke on this a week or two ago… Josh is untouchable…
if anything, id send Al, Marvin, and a Gardner… for a big and Amare and id start ZaZa at center…

1 bibby 2 jj 3 josh 4 mare 5 Z

Amare would fit nicely with what we do offensively.. he and Bibby would be nice.. plus he can hit that jumper out of the high post with much more consistency.. or drive to the hole and finish with AUTHORITY.. he’s also a good passer…

By Melvin

January 25, 2009 11:56 AM | Link to this

Ray, good insight on the timeframe of injuries in regards to team play. However, I still think Josh is the bigger ingredient to the success of this team than Al. But I like both players and want both to remain in a Hawks uni. However, I would prefer to see Sund add a complimentary player like Charlie V (1st choice), Joe Smith or Chris Wilcox to our core going forward before breaking up this team…

By ray

January 25, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

Doc,

As I said before, it makes for good discussion.

By ray

January 25, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

BigDave,

I agree on the jumper. Amare’s trumps Josh’s any day, but not sure about Horford…he can shoot it when given the opportunity.

Melvin,

What do we have to do to get Villanueva? Maybe a little too much. He’s got a better jumper than possibly even Marvin, but I don’t know about his fit here. He’s offensively more dangerous, but can he live well at the three (and defend)?

Joe Smith or Wilcox is a go, as far as I’m concerned, but again, what do we have to give up to get ‘em? I still want somebody that reasonably allows us to move Horford over from center, but that seems to be a pipe dream at the moment.

By hawkeye

January 25, 2009 12:19 PM | Link to this

i think that acquiring amare will be very risky its not like we have a very good coach to run our offense. yes, we have coach bibs right now to run the show but we should also be aware we’re not yet even sure if we’ll be able to keep him this off season. till now we haven’t heard anything from sund in offering bibs an extension. having amare might solve our frontcourt issues but not being able to keep bibs or get a good replacement for him by the end of the season will surely cause us major problem it means we’ll be back to square one.

By ray

January 25, 2009 12:36 PM | Link to this

Hawkeye,

Good point about Bibby. But there seems to be a perpetual expectation of a solution to the problem. First, so many are just so sure that Bibby will be here for the next few years. Since they figure that is a “without a doubt” guarantee, there’s no since in thinking about a plan B. Heh….

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

Entertaining Blog, guys. Good comments and even a sense of brotherhood. Wow.

While the notion of a big time scorer in the frontcourt intrigues me (I’m sure you have all seen my rants about too much backcourt emphasis), I’d ask this about Amare in particular:

Could Joe and Bibby give up the ball ENOUGH for Amare?

THEY have been the focus of the offense. It’s good to talk about “would Amare WANT to come here”, but an equal and perhaps more pertinant question would be:

Do JJ and Bibby WANT a high powered frontcourt mate who would demand many of the shots THEY have been taking. That’s the real chemistry question for me.

And the other question about Amare is how responsible monetarily is it to put that much money into someone who’s had the dreaded microfracture surgery. I admit, he seems to be the poster child for it working out ok, SO FAR. But in the back of my mind, like kirk, I have some concerns here.

By ILL-logical

January 25, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

Good energy on the topic of Amare vs Josh-who can get the Hawks over the hump? Shows the depth and breadth of the fan support of the team.However, the topic is moot because :

1. management’s financial issues;

2.Amare won’t/can’t play the 5 ;(he ain’t a banger)

and we have another log jam because of having a surplus of similar sized/skilled players playing the same position.Sound familiar?

The discussion should add some additional drama to the Aamare ,Josh matchup tonight though. The larger question is who can the Hawks get that the curent incumbant head coach would play( we obviously don’t need a first rounder ‘cause he wouldn’t play under the current regime)?

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 12:52 PM | Link to this

Whoo!!! I see ray is on fire this morning, I can’t keep up lol. I defenetly plan on doing some game-time blogging today heh.

How bout Boston and Dallas at 1:00pm on ABC? Anyone smell an upset?

Oh, and Micah Heart(Hawks.com) has us going 7-3 over our next ten games. I’m going to up him and say we go 10-0 with a 36-16 record going into the All-Star break(Somebody stop me!!!) lol.

I’ve figured it out lol. The Hawks need to sign Chrish Bosh in 2010!!! Im a genuis (Somebody give me a kiss!!!) hehehe….

Guys, Check out This Mike Bibby interview after thge Bulls game with C-Webb and The Glove……funny stuff

It’s funny that you guys are talking about S.T.A.T becaude I was just reading an article about how he doesn’t play any defense lol!!! Smooove will tear him up tonight!!!!

Apparently Acie Law is good to go for this game, hopefully woody will throw Salim….erm…I mean Acie some minutes heh(Like you can tell the difference…..they both have the same amount of splinters in their dairy airs).

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

Smoove is Better All-Around than that overhyped munchkin’ right now!!!!!!!

Yeah I said it, The signatures at the bottom. We’re gonna send him home with his tail betwen his legs tonight. He’s a scrub, all that whinin’ and complinin for D-Antoni’s system to come back so he doesn’t have to play any defense…..what a joke. Why would you want a player who is constantly B^$%*$^&tching to the media about more touches. I thought we liked players with good character around here???? When was the last time you heard smooove or anyone else on this team cry about touches/minutes……..salim(sorry dawg) and that didn’t end well for him. Woody would bench Amare so fast he won’t know what hit him(except for the familiar rash on his azz from all the splinters) having the last name stoudemire wouldn’t help his case with woody either hehehehe…

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 1:11 PM | Link to this

S.T.A.T=S.C.R.U.B(suckaz cryin’ bout bulls$%!t)

They won’t make it out of the first round if he keeps this crap up, the only person he deserves touches down there is Shaq(I mean the guy is having an Incredible season)Let’s not even get into fhe four championchips and some scrub who hasn’t even been to the chip’ whants more touches? See Wade was smart. He knew in order to win you gotta keep the big man happy. If shaq was younger he would’ve put amare in his place by now and B!#%ch slapped him for even thinking about stealing his touches……what a Diva/primadonna/S.C.R.U.B…..

Let him know Smoove!!!!!!!!

~Sir Links A Lot~

By terrell barron

January 25, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

Today’s game is a must win in my book. We’ve got to win our home games. Period! Especially against a Suns team that’s struggling right now. They’ve lost 3 straight. Lets make it 4. We win today and we’re only 6 games behind Orlando. 6 games in the NBA can be made up in a heartbeat. And btw, Miami, Detroit, and Philly are right there. We could easily go from the 4th seed to the 8th seed, if we dont protect the homecourt.

By hawkeye

January 25, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

ray no plan B. i hope the guys are aware that this is business not some kind of fantasy hoops.:)

sautee i think the chem issue will work out just fine. bibs is trying to reinvent the offensive schemes he learned in sac. it worked well with him and cwebb perfectly. amare’s game is quite similar with the old school cwebb except for his defense though. he’s also familiar with pick n roll plays which they execute numerous times back in d’antoni era. i’m sure bibs will be thrilled to have a big guy to use the magic of his pick n roll but i’m not so sure with jj. i’m also curious why PHX suddenly wants to move him. is only because of the cap space for 2010? or there’s more into it .

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

Samuel

about this:

Ray,

Your arguments are becomming very silly. You really need to step away from this thing for a while and consentrate on your Real Job, if you still have one.(I really can’t see how)

So, that’s what cops do on them laptops.

Good God, SAM! The irony of that post is inescapable.

Your “REAL JOB” is teaching our young people. Don’t you owe it to your profession to at least check your spelling? Becomming? Consentrate? C’mon, man.

If you aren’t attacking others at their profession, then your spelling is NOT an issue. But you did.

Ironically you are disarming the very point you are trying to make. And if you attack another’s profession, then you should expect the same.

By ray

January 25, 2009 1:21 PM | Link to this

Ariose,

Good to see you, bro’! I’m looking forward to the matchup tonight with Josh/Amare. But another issue is the Shaq/Zaza matchup. I think this is a good time to get RandMo in there to soak up some of the beating (and the fouls). Nice link, as always, YOU DA MAN!!

Ill-logical,

Good points, and a back-down-to-earth perspective. You know what’s bad? We’re always saying “who can we get that Woody would actually play?” You would think that we were talking about a legendary coach (or at least a guy with a proven, winning record and clearly defined winning system), not a guy who has yet to have a winning season (though this will be the first, if all hell doesn’t break loose). That’s always in the back of my mind…and hopefully in Sund’s as well.

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 1:31 PM | Link to this

uh-oh we’ve got some posturing on the internet y’all!!!

Everyone hide in a bomb shelter cuase it’s goin’ down!!!! hehehehe…..

Oh, if there are dirty E-Mails exchanged we’re all doomed!!!! Doomed I tell you!!!!!!

Run for your lives…..ahhhhhh!!!!!!

~Sir Links A Lot~

By ray

January 25, 2009 1:38 PM | Link to this

Damn, Ariose,

You hit Amare harder than Shaq did Kobe in that fake-a$$ rap video I saw on Youtube…LOL!

Amare’s got talent, and there’s no denying it. And no doubt his touches changed dramatically when Shaq came to town. I can’t blame him for having a rough transition, but he should’ve left that out of the public eye (and ear), put his nose to the grindstone, and soldiered on. Of course, there is nothing to say that Shaq didn’t complicate things behind closed doors, either (he’s been known to speak his mind and say less than edifying things, has he not?).

Having said that, I’d love for Josh to take this personal, get out there, and throw Amare a beatin’. Why? Because Josh wears a Hawks uni, and I love the guy. Even if I did say I’d trade him…

Terrell,

Good point about the standings, and how that is a double-edged blade. We do need to fight to hold position. However, realistically, anything above an 8th seed is an improvement over last year. Just not an improvment that we should have to settle for. I’m sure the team sees it that way as well.

Hawkeye,

“No plan B” scares me, lol!

No doubt there’s more to Phoenix shopping Amare. It’s probably a combination of things. But I’ve seen some moves by management up there that suggests some bit of panic. The move to acquire Shaq was a bit panicky, and ended up with them losing D’Antoni (though I wouldn’t say that was the sole reason D’Antoni left). They’re also not as good of a team anymore, and what did they expect to do with Shaq last year anyway? They weren’t going to win it all with or without him.

Stoudamire no doubt is grousing about a new role, but the season is only half over. Unless they figure they are going to have a healthy, productive Shaq around for a few more years, I’d be leery of letting Stoudamire go, unless they have a plan to add a piece they really need, and replace Shaq with Robin Lopez (or some other big) at some point. Again, I figure this is reaction-based. They’re worried about him getting away (via opt-out clause) and not getting anything (or enough) in return, is my guess. Which means they might hit the trade button…maybe even prematurely…

By ray

January 25, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

LOL @ Ariose….

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

Ray, Just havin’ a little pre-game fun hehehe….

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 1:45 PM | Link to this

Hawkeye

Yes, I can see Bibby adjusting easier, as he is way ahead of Joe in trusting his current teammates.

But right now, Joe is “the man” with this team. Can he coexist with a demanding frontcourt player who likely needs 25 touches or so a game in order to justify not only his salary, but the commitment the team would have made to acquire him?

Rhetorical question, I guess, since no trade has been even formally suggested yet.

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 1:46 PM | Link to this

BTW Ray, I love how you and Ando have brought back the Hacks. Good stuff.

With all of the Ego’s around here we need some more space to vent lol.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

Ray,

Yeah Amre defenetly went about this the wrong way in my opinion, and Shaq IS very good and keeping his drama out of the media. I mean here was so much shaq-kobe craqp that we didn’t even know about until after their divorce.

I love watching them play(except when they play us of course.) I think amare has some things he needs to improve upon as far as his game is concerned though, but he is defenetly a stud.

Now, Smoove for Chris Bosh? I would defenetly give that some serious consideration……just not Amare right now…..then again, you HAVE to consider it if their trying to move him. Then again, CB4 and STAT both have had knee issues in the past(so has Jermiane O’Neal for that matter) and smoove has always had a clean bill of health(excluding his recent ankle incident).

I’d rather wait until the off-season sign Okur and then use the Bird rights to sign Bibby, Marvin, and JJ to extensions……but we ALL know that’s pure fantasy considering this franchises’ current financial state, but hey who says I can’t dream?

~Sir Links A Lot~

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this

This is the perfect game for Randolph to get his shine on. I REALLY want to know what this kid is all about. It’s not like woody has a choice today heh. Like ou said ray, we’re going to need those fouls.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By kirkinga

January 25, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Manny T, I was waiting for you to weigh in. You are the blog’s cap expert so I knew we were missing a critical consideration in the discussion.

One of the other reasons I said Smith over Horford in a trade is the simple fact he makes more money and we would have to give up less players in total if we start with him as the centerpiece.

Tough game ahead folks, with Horford out, I dunno.

Who is “STAT”?

Go Hawks!!

By Melvin

January 25, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

Ray, i read somewhere that the Bucks are trying to reduced their payroll so my guess is they are looking for picks and/or young talent in return. It shouldn’t cost a team too much b/c Charile V is in the last year of his rookie contract. Besides, we have a 1st rnd pick, JChill/D.Andersen rights, Speedy (insurance reimbursement) contract and ZaZa/Solo expiring contracts (which like to see both players resign) at our disposal. So Sund has a lot of flexiblity to be a player before the trading deadline or in the summer. Notice how I omitted Marvin/Bibby expiring contracts.

One last thing about Amare. How many other 6-10 establish front court players, thats 26yrs (or in their prime), current allstar, that avg 20pts/10rebs names are being mention on the trading blocks? Most teams are trying to built around a Stud player like that? To simply say he may exercise his player opt in the upcoming season is an excuse. We don’t see the Raps seeking trades for Bosh and his name has been link from every team from the west coast all the way to the east coast.

By Melvin

January 25, 2009 3:15 PM | Link to this

Wow, Michael Redd done for the season (ACL).

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 3:17 PM | Link to this

Kirk, i’s Amare’s nickname he made for himself. Standing Tall And Talanted he even has a tatoo of it on his arm. They always talk about it whenver the Suns have a nationally televised game…

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Question? Can we get insurance to pay the rest of speedys contract and take it off of our cap charge by having a doctor declare it a career ending injury?

I know the D-Miles situation didn’t work aut but speedy has not played a regular-season game in two years…..it’s pretty much over and we could use the space. Thoughts?

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Question? Can we get insurance to pay the rest of speedys contract and take it off of our cap charge by having a doctor declare it a career ending injury?

I know the D-Miles situation didn’t work aut but speedy has not played a regular-season game in two years…..it’s pretty much over and we could use the space. Thoughts?

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Melvin, I heard. That’s horible for that team. They won’t make the playoffs now……even if Bogut comes back.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Melvin

January 25, 2009 4:02 PM | Link to this

Ariose, That’s a Manny T question you ask. I’m not sure how/when the insurance payment/reimbursement kicks in.

By kirkinga

January 25, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Ah, I see, Thanks Ariose

By cp

January 25, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

I would love to get Amare here but it would just cost us too much to acquire him. I would rather go after Joe Smith or Wilcox. They can play the backup 4 or 5 position and would come cheaper… The Suns are struggling right now and we need to take advantage of them. We will have to rebound the all well tonight and knock down our free throws……

I just read about Eddie Curry’s ex girlfriend and her baby. My condolences are with that family.

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this

i remember watching i think MTV follow Eddie Curry and his team back when i think Dockery or someone played big time hoops up there.. and they showed his girl and son or what have you.. thats a shame… celebs are big time targets up there.. from Q. Rich to A. Walker, and even the idol chic… wow…

i think Joe has had time to get a little rest.. i expect big things from Joe and the Hawks tonight…

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

pleeeeease… don t double shaq guys…

By Melvin

January 25, 2009 6:25 PM | Link to this

Can we get some touch fouls two….

By O'brien

January 25, 2009 6:26 PM | Link to this

Not a good start to the game, but I think we are just missing shots.

I hope JJ is able to shoot a good percentage, because we all know he is going to get his fair share.

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 6:36 PM | Link to this

did solo just shoot 3 free throws…?

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 6:38 PM | Link to this

Mo’s looking good off the bench

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 6:50 PM | Link to this

Did I just see Woody get in JOE’s face at that timeout?

I hope so, for the message it sends to the team.

By HB Ando

January 25, 2009 6:51 PM | Link to this

For those of you who didn’t know, there’s a new Hacks’ blog up (shameless self-promotion)…..

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

Yeah, guys, go check out the Hack blog and Weird Ando.

You’ll know why I called him that when you go.

By HB Ando

January 25, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

Mr. Nash gets posterized….

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 7:08 PM | Link to this

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWW !!!!

By O'brien

January 25, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

J-Smash!!! Just like Ando (or was it Doc?) has been calling for.

By fudd21

January 25, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

Wow! That was nasty by Josh and then a great look on the pass to Marvin.

By cp

January 25, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this

That Josh dunk over Nash was nasty… Can we please stop playing Flip at the point. He looks for his shot too much and rarely passes.

By Sautee

January 25, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this

Hey kirk,

If we base it on the first half, let’s just keep Josh and Al and let them keep Amare.

Yeah, I know…..

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

Jesus christ ALMIGHTY SMOOVE!!!!!!!!!

AWWW MAAAN….j-smizzle kellen em!!!! Whooo!!!!

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

IVE SEEN 2 FOULS ON RANDOLPH I DONT KNOW WHAT THEY ARE SEEING…

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 7:22 PM | Link to this

NO ID STILL SEND AL FOR AMARE…

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

J—smoove da man! Smashed on Stevie Nash! WOW good half so far. JJ has to be able to score on Grant Hill

By ray

January 25, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this

Geez, hate to pile on, but an absolutely wicked dunk by Josh. There he goes, making me feel bad for even mentioning him in any trade talk.

Way to go, Josh.

Nice plays all around, and I even like the shot attempt by Hunter to end the first half. He was under control, it just rimmed out.

Kudos to the much-maligned Woody for finally getting the bench involved early, often, and in a game that is tightly contested.

By ray

January 25, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

Lemme see…

Stoudamire has 6 points, 2 boards, and 5 turnovers. Um….and Josh has 17 points, 9 boards, and 3 turnovers. What was I saying again about trading Josh? I apologize to everyone for that one….

By ray

January 25, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this

Sautee,

I would gloss over the typical Samuel misspellings, but “consentrate”?? Where is he from, northern Europe? No, say it ain’t so….that would be the very height of ironies…

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this

Mike Bibby is pi$$ing me off right now……..Wooson PLEASE Flip in the Game!!!!!! How bout Acie????

By ray

January 25, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

Damn Josh, nice block on Amare!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 25, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

I’ve been watching this whole game and I had no idea the Suns were shooting 60% until I just saw the box score. Weird… I thought the Hawks had been playing much better defense than that.

If fouls per minute was a category in fantasy basketball, Louis Amundson and Randolph Morris would go #1 and #2.

Josh Smith has played like an MVP tonight. I know he was matched up against Amare most of the game, whose defense I have criticized on many occasions, but he has displayed a pretty nice array of post moves when he’s gotten a chance, and his decision making has been great.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 25, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

New blog up. Sorry about the late posting, but I got sidetracked watching the first half of the game and yapping with scouts and others about some stuff. Carroll Rogers is covering the game so I get to watch like you. But again, NEW BLOG UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 8:00 PM | Link to this

too quick to throw away a good player, both of them are good, but what amare dont do is play defense, u can have all the offensive and play no defense and find yourself on the pine. yall can have amare, i’ll forever keep Smoove for my Hawks

By Ariose

January 25, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this

Woodson is an Idiot……he needs to put Acie Law in for Bibby. Mike is like 0 for 9 tonight. it’s just not his night….take his azz out the game. By the time he gets a rythym the game will be over.

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 8:05 PM | Link to this

Mike Woodson if Mike Bibby still missing shots and gettin blown by so easily, its ok to take him out and play somebody else!

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 8:09 PM | Link to this

Mike W. sit Mike B azz down, he hurting us on both ends! Why keep shooting jump shots if u haven’t found your rhythm . go to the hole, get fouled and shoot some free throws, got to do something to help yourself out, since he suppose to be a shooter. Mike sucking tonite bad

By bigdave

January 25, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

DOUBLE EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWW!!!!

U NEED A PSYC. EVALUATION IF YOU THINK THAT WE NEED TO GET RID OF THAT YOUNG MAN…!!! SHAME ON YOU!!!

By ray

January 25, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

OOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! JJ with the excellent play! Josh with the nasty finish!!

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

might be a tough one to pull out, if JJ can and Marvin cant finish lay ups, J smith, has missed a couple jumpers, but the referees aint making no calls on our end right now.

By t-hawk

January 25, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this

yea aint looking too good, with all the missed shots, and bad defense