Hawks

By jhan

January 28, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

I agree with Woody. No brainer for JJ.

By fudd21

January 28, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

Of course he is. He is 11th in the league in scoring, but second only to D Wade among SG in the east. He is 17th in the league in assist again only behind D Wage among SG in the east. But most importantly he is the best player on a team that is in 4th place in the east and 8 games above .500 It’s a no-brainer.

By Lhubert

January 28, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

Why are we even questioning the fact that JJ is an all-star? He should be a starter.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 11:06 AM | Link to this

I agree with Woody on this one. It’s not even up for debate. JJ is 11th in scoring and he’s leading a team that’s 4th best in the East….

By Dan

January 28, 2009 11:19 AM | Link to this

He will make the team. I have not seen any of the talking heads (TNT or ESPN crew) leave him off their reserve list.

He is an All Star. I love Joe Johnson. He was the main reason this team started to turn around.

I will say, however, that I almost wish he does not make the team. If what Sekou says is true, and I think it is, than Joe needs a rest. It would be nice if he could go sit on a beach with his feet up for a few days.

By Astro Joe

January 28, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

The Hawks own the 4th best record in the conference. We absolutely MUST have a representative and Joe is the one that makes the most sense. I think he is better than any of the backcourt players on the 3 teams ahead of the Hawks (Ray Allen, Rondo, Jameer, Unknown Magic SG, Mo Williams & Delonte). In fact, after Paul Pierce and Chris Bosh, Joe should be the next reserve player named to the team.

By noddy dred

January 28, 2009 11:31 AM | Link to this

Joe out in 2010. Wade in 2010.

FEBRUARY 1. 134 LUCKY ST. THE LUCKY LOUNGE. DOORS OPEN AT 3:00 PM. CELEBRITIES, WOMEN, FOOTBALL, FUN. HALFTIME: DJ CANNON.

             STEWPERBOWL 1

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

WOW the ASG has lost over 174 mil since 2002. My Gosh, with those type losses maybe the ASG have (or had) deeper pockets than we think. I can’t blame them for being Broke now. It will be interesting to see how much Belkin will receive (or if any) from the buyout being that he hadn’t contribute funds the past few years like the remaining members. It will be a sweet deal for Belkin if he can walk away with more than he contribute and now sharing in the losses along the years. That would be one heck of bond/golden parachute for him. One would think, if the ASG is losing so much money why not cut some of their losses and sell the team back to Belkin….

BASG=PAIN

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 11:48 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe, I agree with all that you said except for putting Chris Bosh ahead of Joe. No way does head deserve to be name to the All-Star team ahead of Joe. The Raps are one of the worst teams in the EAST. Luckily, the Wiz have multiple players injury, if not, the Raps would replace them at the bottom…

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this

That should have read “not sharing in the losses along the years”…

By MannyT

January 28, 2009 11:55 AM | Link to this

Sure, JJ should be on the team.

Will he be on the team…I am not so sure.

The NBA gravitates toward personalities, that might matter when it gets down to the last slot or two. We know that JJ is not the vocal, visible type. If the coaches voting is influenced by recent games—using the Janet Jackson rule—What Have You Done for Me Lately, January has not been Joe’s best month.

Orlando could bring some new folks to the party (Jameer Nelson, Rashard Lewis)

Rondo and Devin Harris have also made improvements that could take a slot or two.

If you look at the teams behind the Hawks, Danny Granger makes a strong case on a weak team. Similar things could be said for Antawn Jamison & to a lesser extent David Lee.

It will be interesting to see who makes it.

BWAF

By PD

January 28, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

Yes

By Harry Hawk

January 28, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Joe will be there. He’s been there the last two seasons while toiling for crummy teams. He’s a lock to be there with the Hawks in the top four in the East.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 12:41 PM | Link to this

No comment. Go Hawks.

By HOME GROWN aka E.J.

January 28, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

He should be there.

By I .MUS WRITE

January 28, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

Ditto……. Noddydread Ditto….Fudd21

Just take that max money and go after Mr. Wade

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 1:20 PM | Link to this

Sund said, Our goal coming into the season was to make the Playoffs with a winning record. Wow! If that was their goal, I guess we might as well stop the Fire Woody talk. He’s here for at least the remainder of the season. If we’re out in the 1st rd, I think he’s outta here. If not, that old stubborn mule will probably still be around next year.

By rms

January 28, 2009 1:24 PM | Link to this

the way Joe is playing right now, he is backup to a reserve all-star! maybe he should rest during the all-star weekend insteading of playing….

By Clyde

January 28, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

Here are my all-star reserves:

Pierce Bosh Ray Allen Danny Granger Hedo Turkolu Rasheed Wallace Devin Harris/Jameer Nelson

FIRE WOODY

By Daniel

January 28, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

Joe Johnson is absolutely an All-Star. Although, I kinda agree with some posts that maybe he should rest. I really think Joe is not getting the calls that other All-Star players get and as a result he is not getting charity stripe shots and banged around a lot. No wonder he is tired. 40 minutes for Kobe going to the line 15 times is a lot less wear and tear than Joe’s 40 with a handful of trips and a whole lot of mugging

By braja

January 28, 2009 2:01 PM | Link to this

Joe Johnson is not an All-Star,way far from superstar.

By 404atlhoops

January 28, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Johnson is an All-Star. I thought last year he really did not deserve to be on team because his numbers were down. Now that the Hawks are winning coupled with being selected to the All-Star team the last two years, Johnson has established himself as a big time player to the rest of the league. Even if Johnson just puts up “good numbers”, he’ll make All Star on rep alone.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

NBADraft.net has Atlanta selecting pg Patrick Mills of St.Mary’s College. What do you guys think about possibly drafting a pg in rd 1 for 2 consecutive years? I dont think it will happen. Woody would never go for that. Mills can ball though. They had us taking Hasheem Thabeet 7’3 265 Center out of UConn earlier in the year, but now they’ve moved him all the way up to the 3rd pick in the draft.(Sacramento). It sure is nice knowing we actually have a couple of picks this year. I can see us dealing our 2nd rdr in a package featuring Marvin and possibly Acie, if we plan on drafting Mills. I know, I know, it’s only a mock. But it makes for good conversation. lol!!!

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Big AL for making the Rookies-Soph game… Hopefully he will sit out to rest his knee.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

I meant 2 consecutive drafts, not 2 consecutive years.

By Ramon

January 28, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

Off topic aren’t we glad the Hawks didn’t get the first pick 2 seasons ago? They would’ve been forced to draft Oden (who’s not a bust yet) but would’ve missed out on the Manchild ‘Horford’.

By Clyde

January 28, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

Here are my reserves:

Joakim Noah and Sean Williams

By Sekou = Sissy

January 28, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this

Wow Sekou, You’re really asking the tough questions to Coach Woodson lately. Another hard hitting interview. Atlanta Media is so scared of Woody. Why? Step up and ask Coach why he is running his superstar into the ground??? JOE NEEDS A REST EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE! Why won’t anyone step up and say something? We let Coach say things like “he’s got to work through it”. Work through it?!?! He’s about to die of fatigue. He leads the league in minutes and is struggling worse than he ever has and you’re going to keep him out there for 40 plus minutes?!?! You moron! I can promise you he will be hurt (unfortunately) within the next month and he’ll be out a long time. And the blame should fall on Woody. But no one in Atlanta Media will say a damn thing because for some reason they are scared of Bozo the Coach. I’m done reading you sekou. At least until you get some balls buddy.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

“Pierce Bosh Ray Allen Danny Granger Hedo Turkolu Rasheed Wallace Devin Harris/Jameer Nelson”

There are at least 3 Hawks who deserve to make the All Star team this year over Sheed. You gotta be kidding me.

Joe Johnson has been on every All Star reserve list I’ve seen, and I see no reason why he shouldn’t be on the team. I hope his minutes are limited though.

In less happy news, you think President Obama could throw an extra $174 million into his bailout package for the Atlanta Spirit? I’m no fan of the DASG, but damn, that’s a lot of money to lose.

By Astro Joe

January 28, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

Nothing like someone using a moniker like Sekou=Sissy to accuse someone of not stepping up to the plate. DING!

tb, Marvin cannot be a part of any draft day deal because he will be in that gray RFA area. He won’t have a contract to be dealt but he isn’t free to take another deal without signing an offer sheet. With Zaza’s contract expiring (Solo too)and Morris looking like a practice player, finding a cheap big seems like the most logical choice. No, I’m not expecting to find a guy who can start or even give us 20 minutes off the bench in his rookie season in the draft. Just a “project” that can ultimately develop into a quality rotational player. Basically, this year’s version of Javale McGee (if there is someone like that available when we pick). Sund likes to pick big projects, but none have progressed to even become rotational players at this point (from his Sonics tenure).

By The Truth

January 28, 2009 3:17 PM | Link to this

I’m going to take a contrarian view on this whole all-star debate for the sake of making a point. Here’s the main question: Does a team creates an all-star to win games or does a team win games to create an all-star? Which question is more important? Which outcome would be more beneficial to the team? These are questions about priority. Perhaps they shed light on the root causes of the current struggles.

By Coach Woodson

January 28, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this

Hey Fellas,

I’m back! Up in New York now getting ready for tonights big game. Just wanted to check back in for a few tips and answer any (easy) questions you may have (please throw me soft balls and kiss my rear end like sekou does). Anyways, I want to talk to you today a little bit about our Superstar. Mr. Joe Johnson. He’s been struggling as of late and I can’t seem to put my finger on why it’s happening. Someone told me it’s because he’s playing too many minutes but that’s CRAZY TALK! He’s our star player. We have to have him out on the court at all times. Resting is not an option for Joe…ever. I don’t even let him shower after the game. And when he goes home at night I follow him and blast loud music from my car outside his bedroom. All the time yelling “No Rest For Joe…No Rest For Joe!!”. You see fellas, this way I keep him alert and on his toes at all time. I then call every single play for him. When you see us in a huddle in the timeout all I’m usually saying is “Give Joe the Ball and back away”. By the way, since we’ve been up here in NY something really funny happened. I punched Acie Law in the face. That’s it. Pretty funny huh? Well, I thought it was. No reason of course. I just don’t like the guy. And when I don’t like someone I let them know. Right Salim? So anyone have any questions for me or tips for tonight? I’d love to hear them. My gameplan as of now is to have our guys shoot jumpers all night and never drive to the basket. Especially Josh Smith and that silky smooth 3 point shot. Oh man. Anyways, I’m outta here guys. Gotta go give Speedy his daily foot massage. If you see me crossing my arms and pouting on TV tonight it’s only a sign that I’m thinking of you….

Love, Coach Michael Woodson

By Why Sekou Why?

January 28, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Hope the name’s ok this time…

Wow Sekou, You’re really asking the tough questions to Coach Woodson lately. Another hard hitting interview. Atlanta Media is so scared of Woody. Why? Step up and ask Coach why he is running his superstar into the ground??? JOE NEEDS A REST EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE! Why won’t anyone step up and say something? We let Coach say things like “he’s got to work through it”. Work through it?!?! He’s about to die of fatigue. He leads the league in minutes and is struggling worse than he ever has and you’re going to keep him out there for 40 plus minutes?!?! You moron! I can promise you he will be hurt (unfortunately) within the next month and he’ll be out a long time. And the blame should fall on Woody. But no one in Atlanta Media will say a damn thing because for some reason they are scared of Bozo the Coach. I’m done reading you sekou. At least until you get some balls buddy.

By igotxx3

January 28, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

The question is should he participate or just get some rest, which he needs.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

All-Stars always shine when they play in the Big Apple.(Kobe,Lebron,AI,MJ, etc…. Tonights game will prove if JJ is an All-Star this year or not. If he goes out and lays an egg, I say that spot goes to Mo Williams. If he shines, the spot is his. Thats the way I look at it.

By blue

January 28, 2009 3:54 PM | Link to this

Would JJ be a bad pick for the All-Star game? No.

Would anybody care if he’s not? Outside of Hawks fans, no.

He’s as boring as it gets when it comes to Allstars/Superstars - part of the reason why attendance stinks and why he wasn’t voted in.

Blame it on the minutes if you want, but watching him sometimes is like watching paint dry. No hustle, no enthusiasm, no killer instinct.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 3:57 PM | Link to this

tb, Mo Williams. Comeon. How many teams do you think game plan is to stop Mo Williams? He’s 3rd fiddle (Bron/Z) in Cleveland just like he was in Miwaukee (Redd/Bogut)…. All-Star he is not. Just like Rondo/Devin/Nelson all should be left of the team as well…

By Astro Joe

January 28, 2009 4:00 PM | Link to this

tb, did Mo Williams light up NYC? How about Jameer or Turkaglu? Don’t compare JJ to future HOFers… he can be an All-Star and NOT be a HOFer (e.g. Chris Webber and Shawn Marion). Reserves are selected by coaches not the NYC media.

By Sports Genius

January 28, 2009 4:01 PM | Link to this

The only problem with Joe Johnson’s game lately is that he’s not playing enough minutes. Play him 48 minutes/game and see what he can do, especially on back to backs. If Coach would let him play more I’m sure he’d perform.

By The Truth

January 28, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

Think we are being invaded by illegal aliens.

By dap01

January 28, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

If Woody had Kobe, we would not need another shooting guard on the roster. Kobe would play 48 minutes.

Joe leads the league in minutes. Woody…that should tell you that perhaps you are out of line.

By rms

January 28, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

I agree with Blue. Joe is a bit on the boring side. He lacks fire, enthusiasm, and most of all killer instinct. Outside of Atlanta, nobody cares if he miss the All-star game. Most people dont know who he is or seen him play. The player that NBA fans should be in an uproar about not making the All-star game is Al Jefferson. That guy is a beast, but playing in the West is why he may not get in.

By LyDale

January 28, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! I have been a HAWKS fan for years. I also know my NBA. JJ has not exhibited the leadership nor the consistent scoring to be an All Star this year. Sorry Joe…luv ya dude, but I ain’t feeling it for you dude!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this

Mo Williams and Jameer Nelson are examples of the “give winning teams more All Stars” thing gone wrong. Neither one is anything more than a role player benefiting from the presence of a superstar. You really think if Bibby was in either of their positions right now he wouldn’t be playing just as well if not better? I can understand the tendency to reward good teams with multiple All Stars to an extent, but you gotta draw the line somewhere. And anyway, I’d rather put Rajon Rondo on the team purely based on production over either of them.

The same logic leads people to exclude players like Kevin Durant and Al Jefferson, who are both ballin’ for teams that happen to have very little talent and experience around them. For some reason All Star voters are unable to tell the difference between players like them, who play efficiently and would be just as productive on a good team, and inefficient players like Antoine Walker for example who benefit from being the best option on a bad team.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 28, 2009 4:32 PM | Link to this

I think our friend Why? must have missed the Jan. 14 entry titled “Gimme a break and the scores of posts that followed where we discussed the idea that JJ needs a huge rest.

No one is giving Woodson a pass for the mondo minutes he’s putting on JJ. It’s wearing the team’s best player down, plain and simple.

I’m not sure what else you expect the Atlanta media to say about it beyond what was done on the 14th and in today’s paper.

And as for All-Star voters, they’re the same crew that almost put Yi Jianlian and Bruce Bowen in the game this year. So singing the praises of that segment on the basketball population seems a bit off as well.

The fact is, the coaches choose the reserves. And they do that based on what must be a combination of reputation and current performance (with a little bit of circumstance sprinkled in there for good measure).

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 4:54 PM | Link to this

Yeah you’re right… I forgot the reserves are chosen by coaches. That’s who I meant to criticize in my post about the likes of Mo Williams and Jameer Nelson being considered All Stars while Kevin Durant and Al Jefferson are left off.

By I .MUS WRITE

January 28, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this

Terrell,Come on dude …… So you’re saying that you will evaluate a player based on 1 game to see if he’s worthy of being an All Starr. So you’re gonna totally discount everything the guy has done this season up to now…… Wow …….thats rediculous I would’nt care if he scored 3 points JJ is definitely an all star….. Name 3 gaurds in the east that are better,Cant do it can u.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

No, I’m not evaluating him on 1 game. He’s been struggling of late, and it’s happening when it’s time to choose the reserves. Tonights game is the perfect time for him to shine on the big stage. That’s all I’m saying. Stop putting words in my mouth. He’s a part-time Allstar if you ask me. He just seems to take way too many nights off. Just my opinion of course. I dont know if it’s from too many minutes or what, but it’s true. And he also takes way too many jumpshots. And one more thing, it’s ridiculous, not rediculous. Go Hawks.

By Ramon

January 28, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

I.Mus, it depends on what position Lebron is playing that night, lol.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 5:55 PM | Link to this

And Mo Williams has been huge for Cleveland. No way they’d have the best record in the East without him. No way!! Just ask Lebron, if you dont believe me.

By Clyde

January 28, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

Najeh Davenpoop here is the reason for putting Rasheed on my list. Point blank the center and power forward positions are weak this year. Outside of Garnett no one is standing out. To me Rasheed and Bosh are the two best at the 4 and 5 right now in the east. There are probably some that are more deserving but we can’t have a team full of guards.

FIRE WOODY

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this

This is why I chose not to comment on this earlier. I dont feel like Arguing. lol!!

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 6:12 PM | Link to this

Clyde, there’s no rule saying the resevers must have x-number of centers,guards and forwards. So it doesn’t matter how the bench is comprise. Therefore the coaches have the freedom to pick the 7 most deserving players.

TB, Mo Williams over Joe. Say it ain’t so….

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 6:18 PM | Link to this

TB, You should have know you was going to get backlash for saying Mo is more deserving than Joe on the Hawks blog. Joe (SF) avg more assist than Mo (PG).

Mo Williams 2008-09 Statistics PPG 17.2 RPG 3.30 APG 4.1

Joe Johnson 2008-09 Statistics PPG 21.5 RPG 4.50 APG 6.1

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 6:21 PM | Link to this

Clyde, I meant reserves….

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 6:37 PM | Link to this

The Hawks will lose tonight in New York for sure, unless Woody changes his ways.

I am looking forward to the Hawks dropping to 5th place so we can stop saying that everything is alright and the Hawks will be fine.

We “need” to lose so we can see our true deficiencies.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 6:43 PM | Link to this

I can understand Chris Bosh. He may be on a bad team but at least he’s put up some numbers. But Sheed? He’s been inconsistent as hell, he’s averaging like 12 points per game, Detroit’s interior defense sucks… even if we limit ourselves only to forwards and centers, I can’t see any reason why he’s more deserving of an All Star spot than Josh Smith or Al Horford, not to mention Antawn Jamison, David Lee… sh-t Brook freakin’ Lopez might be more deserving.

By ray

January 28, 2009 7:03 PM | Link to this

Is JJ an all-star? Unquestionably, at least in my mind (which matters to no one besides me).

Will he make the all-star team? Don’t know. This foolishness gets worse every year it seems. Like Sekou said, fans almost voted Yi Jianlian and Bruce Bowen into the game. Ridiculous. Not even funny. Retarded, even. Whatever.

By Jae

January 28, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this

He should be starting NOT A.I.!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

The Knicks look every bit as careless and inefficient as the stats indicate early, but the Hawks need to quit settling for jumpshots. There are no shotblockers on the floor for New York. Take it to the hole and draw some fouls.

Just as I say that Marvin gets an and-1. Nice.

By big o

January 28, 2009 7:53 PM | Link to this

I’m being selfish but I hope he does not make it. What will it prove ? We know as do any basketball fan that he is an allstar. Joe get some rest baby !!!

We will need you in the second half. Dude is playing 40 minutes/game

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

The Knicks are making a conscious effort to post up Josh Smith to try to draw the 2nd foul on him, going away from their typical pick-and-roll and jack up 3 pointers approach. So far Josh has played great on both ends of the floor, avoiding fouls and providing a nice defensive presence. I’d still like to see him and the rest of the Hawks attack the Knicks inside though. There is nobody on that team, straight up, who can block shots consistently.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this

Hawks score 18 pts within the 1st 9mins of the game. At least they are off to a better start this game.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this

At this point I wouldn’t mind trading for Peja Stojakovic just so he can teach the rest of the team how to shoot free throws. It’s getting a little ridiculous.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this

Joe played all 12mins of the 1st qtr… - Provide by The Woody Report (TWR) where we follow all his promises…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

Nice first quarter for Zaza. Made some good moves, scored some buckets, grabbed some boards. The team defensive presence is just night and day when Josh Smith leaves the game though.

Oh yeah, Joe Johnson played all 12 minutes in the first quarter.

By cp

January 28, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

Just as he did last year with Childress, Woodson takes Marvin out regardless if he is playing well or not. He sits Josh down to bring in Flip and Flip goes on to turn the ball over twice and repeatedly get beat off the dribble on the defensive end.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

The Woody Report (TWR) where we FACT CHECK all of Woodson promises….

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

The Knicks are getting any shot they want right now. Tim Thomas has now posted up Mo Evans (who gives up 5 inches) twice now and scored both times. There is no defensive presence when Josh Smith is not in the game. Acie Law is looking really timid. Flip Murray, bad shot selection and all, is keeping the Hawks in the game right now.

By cp

January 28, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

When Flip is at the 2 and Law at the 1, Flip is a lot more effective.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:17 PM | Link to this

It’s nice to see Joe Johnson getting some rest, but for the first few minutes of the quarter both he AND Josh Smith were on the bench. If you are going to rest your best offensive player, you should at least have your best defensive player in the game to compensate. If both are on the bench you are inviting the opposing team to make a run, and that’s exactly what the Knicks did.

Josh is back in the game now, so it’s all good. Flip is on fire which is nice to see. But the Hawks are still not taking the ball inside and challenging the Knicks’ big men, which is really disappointing considering NONE OF THEM CAN BLOCK SHOTS!!!!

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

Flip the Switch right down the lane for the Monster Jam….

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:22 PM | Link to this

Damn, I had no idea Flip Murray could dunk until right now. He has been outstanding off the bench.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

What is up with our free throw shooting? And Marvin drills a 3 and then Woody pulls him for Evans. wtf??? And Bibby is off again. Why is he still in the game?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:35 PM | Link to this

Mostly a well-played half… they still need to attack the basket more and step up defensively when Josh Smith leaves the game. Joe Johnson played 19 minutes in the first half, which isn’t that bad I guess. Hopefully they can continue to extend the lead and he can get some real rest in the 2nd half. Nice night for Flip Murray and Zaza Pachulia so far.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah, 3/9 free throw shooting is, uh, bad. Not much more you can say about that.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 28, 2009 8:36 PM | Link to this

what’s wrong with playing like this every night, save, of course, for the missed free throws and the anything goes attitude on defense?

By cp

January 28, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

Yea terrell that’s what I was saying earlier. Regardless of how well Marvin is playing he will pull him to play Evans. Woodson is notorious for pulling the hot hand out the game and putting in the cold one. Josh had a great first half but man he has to knock down those free throws and he missed a few gimme buckets. Bibby is still off. Pachulia is having a nice game.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this

Timid? Wouldn’t you be a little timid Najeh, if everytime you made a mistake your Coach pulled you and screamed that’s why I dont play your a*.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks had cut down on their turnovers and made their free throws they could have a double digit lead.

By Big Ump

January 28, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

E G

That’s a true fan Huh. Hoping the team lose, so you can prove your point. Come on dude. Now that’s being pretty selfish don’t you think.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

We dont get the Knicks ever night Sekou. That might have something to do with it.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this

Yeah I know, Terrell, I wouldn’t be surprised if that was the reason he was playing timid either.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

Well, looks like Woody gave his best speech about cancer, AIDS, death and destruction at halftime, because the Hawks look completely out of it early in the 3rd quarter.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 9:00 PM | Link to this

What the f-ck… neither guard is hitting any shots, the Knicks have no shot blockers… you’d think the Hawks would catch on and start taking the ball inside, but nope, hasn’t happened yet…

By ray

January 28, 2009 9:04 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

You know well and good there ain’t a damn thing wrong with playing like this every night (with a bit better defense), lol!

Well, it appears that our dynamic backcourt duo is still struggling, but the good news is that our frontcourt is handling business JUST LIKE THEY SHOULD BE against their Knick counterparts.

Marvin has shown up big time, and Josh? Oh, this is the Josh we’re used to. Dude is ALL OVER THE GLASS, hitting one shot after the next, grabbing at loose balls, and swatting shots. I LOVE it, don’t you?

And Flip Murray is earning more than his share, if you ask me.

One of the keys to the game was not losing the hustle game to New York’s role players. So far, we’re not losing that aspect of the game. Good job, Hawks!

Najeh,

You never saw Flip throw it down? He’s done it a few times this year. Then again, you probably also saw a few MISSED dunks from him this year, too. But yeah, he can do it. Generally can’t throw it down OVER somebody, but nobody’s perfect.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this

Sekou, can you please ask Woody after the game why the Hawks didn’t make an effort to score inside more, against a team that has ZERO SHOT BLOCKERS!?!?!?!?! I don’t think the Hawks have taken a single shot in the paint this entire quarter other than Flip Murray’s dunk in transition. This is ridiculous.

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Look like the wheels has came off the wagon in the 3rd qtr…

By ray

January 28, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Najeh, you killin’ me, yo! I have Captain Morgan’s Mojito coming out of my nose! That $hit stings!

CP,

What is with us chaning our approach again? I’m okay with Bibby being in there even though he’s missing shots…as long as he’s not taking bad ones. If he’s open, and other guys are completely covered up, then shoot. Can’t get warmed back up if you don’t shoot. That, and if he’s doing his usual thing with good ball movement. But if he’s turning it over, get Acie and Flip in there. Flip’s hot right now…ride that mutha…

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

Woody need to put Joe and Bibby on the bench…

By cp

January 28, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

Our starting back court is I don’t even know right now. Ugly third quarter. Flip has almost given up as many points defensively as he has scored.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

The starting backcourt is 6/22 and the Hawks are still making no consistent effort to get the ball inside. Sorry if I’m being redundant, but even a high school coach should be able to see this and correct this problem. Woody ain’t even earning a quarter of his paycheck tonight.

By cp

January 28, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

ray that look on Woodys face says it all for me.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 9:17 PM | Link to this

By going 1/2 each on their recent free throw attempts, Mike Bibby and Josh Smith have actually brought the Hawks’ team free throw percentage UP.

By bigdave

January 28, 2009 9:18 PM | Link to this

stinking it up…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks continue playing like they did in that 3rd quarter, they won’t be able to beat the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

Probably the most pathetic quarter I have seen all year, including the 121-87 game against Orlando. Horrific coaching, terrible shot selection, pathetic defense, pathetic effort, and a complete inability to take advantage of the opposing team’s personnel.

By bigdave

January 28, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

stinking it up…

By cp

January 28, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

We cant hit free throws, showing no heart, no type of energy, giving up all kind of second chance points, Bibby is logging heavy minutes despite the fact that he is playing horrible, woodson on the bench with his mouth open and pouting.

By bigdave

January 28, 2009 9:21 PM | Link to this

this club needs a shot in the arm…

By Da Real Real

January 28, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

I’m with you ray. You treat these guys like you’d do a running back who’s finishing off a ballgame for you in the 4th quarter. You’ve got ride that horse. Problem is, Bibby’s shooting is starting to effect his whole game….aside from the steals…He doesn’t have that swagger right now about his game. He’s being hesitant, and the same goes for JJ. Can’t be hesitant.

By 404atlhoops

January 28, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous. The Hawks are about to lose to the damn Knicks. 82-74 at the end of the 3qtr. Johnson and Bibby are ice cold. It’s not looking good at all.

By doc

January 28, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

yes, jj should be on the all star team.

cp what look? not watching.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 28, 2009 9:31 PM | Link to this

The Hawks’ free throw shootint tonight is almost as atrocious as their entire offense was in the first half against Miami. The ridiculous part is they work on free throws all the time in practice, like every NBA team. But it’s a disaster out here tonight. A complete disaster. And yet they’re still in this game (despite this hiddeous 11-for-25 showing from the line, as of right now).

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 9:34 PM | Link to this

How do you let a team throw and alley oop to a 5’9 guy…..

By cp

January 28, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

iso iso iso iso iso iso. is this the only damn play woodson knows. get that coy crap outta here.

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 9:37 PM | Link to this

Fire Woody!!!!!

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

My Goosh, the Knick commentators just said the Hawks look like a team with no cohesiveness….

By cp

January 28, 2009 9:39 PM | Link to this

doc, woodson has his mouth open, rolling his eyes. and looks to be pouting on the bench.

By rms

January 28, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

Firing Woody wont do any good. This team need to make some moves because its painfully obvious that they dont play any interior defense at all. This is pathetic, no low post game, no perimeter shooting!! Like I said before, this team is not as good as the record indicates. Blame the coach, blame the players, Bottom line: This team is bad!! Its not just a funk. This team is bad!!

By Mark

January 28, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

Josh is not worth 58 million!! He is having a good night, but still is finding a way to mess up. He is just a screw up. If he shooting good he misses ft, if he making ft he makes bonehead plays. We need Horford, because he is the heart of this team!!

By igotxx3

January 28, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

i never say negative stuff about the hawks but this is horrible. I think we need to make a trade for farmar or ariza somebody who’s agressive. Josh smith did everything he could, he played a good game. I dont no what to say about this team right now.

By ray

January 28, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith is having a great game….except from the free throw line, where he’s killing us.

CP,

That look on Woody’s face is “I can’t believe my veteran starting guards aren’t shooting well.”

Went away from the post game again, and tried to shoot our way back into it. Stupid. But I know what Woody’s going to say: He’ll ignore everything else and talk about us not playing defense.

And he’ll be right about that part. But ONLY that part…

By Sekou K. Smith

January 28, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

This is bonkers. The Knicks worked the Hawks to the end, totally outplayed them in the second half.

By War-Town Eagle (Northside of Warner Robins)

January 28, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

How many games do we have to wait until “all-star” joe johnson breaks out of his slump?

By Jeremy

January 28, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Need a new coach to take this team to another level. Same stuff every night for the past 5 years……………

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Nate Robinson scored 20pts in the 4th qtr…My Goosh

By O'brien

January 28, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Bibby, 2-13 and JJ 5-15. That’s 7-28 from your starting backcourt. And when you shoot free throws like we do, we can’t win.

By Da Real Real

January 28, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this

Well it sounds like the Knicks commentators told the truth. Our team as a whole is playing with no confidence and that happens when your top guys aren’t playing with any confidence. You have to have confidence to shoot free throws and make them. Anybody can go take a free throw. That is the difference in the ball game right now. NY has confidence and they are letting it hang out while the Hawks are just to hesitant. Woody can keep telling these guys to go inside because its working all he wants but its up to the players to convert. If they dont choose to go inside thats on the players.

Yeah JJ is an all-star but I really wished that JJ had the mentality that Smoove has. Smoove is not afraid whereas I can’t figure out what the heck JJ is afraid of because he’s got plenty of talent and has the skills.

We’ve proved this year that this team has got talent and can beat teams…we just got to get our mojo back because we’ve lost it.

By igotxx3

January 28, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this

come on man josh is playing with heart. he has been playing good on both ends of the court. as a TEAM they cant make free throws thats whats hurting them, so blame that on the TEAM, so please stop hating on josh when the whole team is not playing well.

By ray

January 28, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

Da Real Real,

They have to work through that hesitation, and the missed shots. And the former definitely has to happen before the latter can. Thing is, those two guys are the two who should know better.

Well, we lost. Let them beat us playing their own game.

Stupid statement prediction for the night:

Somebody will say “hey look, Acie got the ball in the waning seconds of the 4th quarter and missed a wide-open three pointer! Told you he doesn’t deserve to play!” ….while ignoring horrid shooting performances by Bibby and JJ.

Three guesses who THAT will be. You won’t need the second and third guesses…

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

Lets just go ahead and trade JJ and Bibby for an up and coming superstar(Roy, Mayo, etc.. and go young AGAIN. We can draft a big and play Acie at the point. This team isn’t going anywhere, I’m afraid. And yes, I’m p**. Even though I predicted the Hawks to lose this game.

By darrell starks

January 28, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

Where is AVERY JOHNSON Woody have to go. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

Hey BIG UMP

I’m not being selfish; Woody is being selfish because all he is thinking about is himself. Why? He doesn’t care about the players who is sitting on the bench wondering why they can’t play when it is obvious that someone is having an off night.

I watched this game until New York went up 66-65. i couldn’t take it any more. Joe Johnson is tired and overworked and Woody doesn’t know how to make good decisions. The Hawks looked like a D-League team tonight. The couldn’t even beat the New York Knicks!!!

By the way, I don’t think this team is going to make any moves or resign Bibby. I heard on the radio earlier today that the Hawks’ owners have lost 174 million dollars since 2002.

* By the time January 31st is over, we will at least be able to say that the Hawks went 2-6, beating Milwaukee twice, for they surely won’t beat the NJ Nets this coming Friday.*

GOOD COACHING WOODY!!

By Macaroni Tony

January 28, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

How many of us can play 82 games a year… I don’t know of one player in 82 games that want have some kind of slump.. Mark what the hell are you talking about JS has score double-double in five of six games.. He’s not shooting three pointer that all of complained about. Bibby needs to drive to the whole more, but I’m going to stand behind these guys for the rest of the season. I think when AH come back then we’ll be alot better.

By Mac-town

January 28, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

IT DOES NOT MATTER IF WE DO NOT SHOOT JUMPERS WELL FOR STRETCHES (GAMES) IN A ROW….we are the 4th place team in the east….a TRULY GOOD TEAM…when the perimeter game isnt working.. we can just go to our low post offensive game and beat teams that way because GOOD teams are able to win games both ways……oh wait..

By cp

January 28, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

ray I think that look was more of him saying ” i cant believe these suckers actually gave me a two year deal”

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

HEY WAR-TOWN EAGLE

JJ IS NOT GOING TO BREAK OUT OF ANY SLUMP UNTIL HE GETS SUFFICIENT REST.

I MUST AGREE WITH ONE OF OUR BLOGGERS: WOODY=COY

By Mac-town

January 28, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

Anybody notice that when we lose, or anytime when Woodson has to give an explanation as to what went wrong and what can be dont to fix it…he starts saying stuff that any coach potatoe dude at home can say….some coach!!!

By bigdave

January 28, 2009 10:11 PM | Link to this

our interior d is shaky cause we cant defend anyone one on one on the perimeter. then on occasion we hide bibby and play him in the key area and he at times matches up with a big, and from there its curtains..

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this

Miami is only a 1/2 game back 1 week later, just as I called it. We’ve fallen and we cant get up.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

Of course all the focus post-game here is going to be about the horrendous free throw shooting. No doubt the team, and Josh Smith in particular, have no excuse for that. But that’s not the reason the Hawks lost.

The Hawks lost because this was the single worst-coached game they have had all season. Woody deserves to be fired for this game alone. Like I said in like 50 posts above, when you go up against a team with ZERO SHOT BLOCKERS, there is NO EXCUSE not to drive the ball to the basket and/or post up on EVERY SINGLE POSSESSION. I can’t even count how many times the Hawks came down the floor in the 2nd half and ran the Paul Hewitt offense (throw the ball around the three point line aimlessly before jacking up a jumpshot at the end of the shot clock), making absolutely no effort to post up or challenge David Lee or Al Harrington to block their shot. And in the 4th quarter, when Nate Robinson was torching the Hawks, and Mike Bibby was bricking everything offensively, gee, which quick young guard could have possibly come off the bench and given the Hawks a boost? I haven’t even mentioned yet that Zaza played a pretty good game and yet was on the bench for most of the 4th quarter while the Hawks were getting killed on the boards. This game was ridiculous, and I am starting to believe the folks who say Woody has lost this team (yeah about time I know).

In my humble opinion, the 4th quarter lineup should have been Acie Law, Flip Murray, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams and Zaza Pachulia. Marvin was the only consistent player in the 4th quarter, Acie would have at least been able to somewhat keep up with Nate Robinson, Zaza could have helped on the boards where the Hawks got killed, and although Josh Smith took too many outside jumpshots his energy kept the game from being a complete blowout. Bibby and Joe should have received the Lawrence Frank treatment. Both of them sucked all game and had no reason to be on the floor wasting possessions in the 4th quarter.

By ray

January 28, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

I could see the energy just getting sapped right out of Smith towards the end, the way these guys were playing. We didn’t go to him nearly as much is the second half. Gee, never saw that coming…

On the other hand, his horrendous free throw shooting really hurt us. Even if he made all of his free throws, the best we could manage was a tied score. That doesn’t make up for yet another bad game by JJ, and another even worse game by Bibby.

I wonder why they are both struggling at the same time, while a young fella like Josh Smith is excelling despite being without his stalwart frontcourt mate?? Hmmm…interesting.

Marvin was fantastic tonight. Wonder if we’ll see another game like that from him for the next 20 games or so?

Flip was good too, and has been very good for us alot here lately. 20 points off the bench was a 6th man of the year type of performance. The way offensive options 1 and 2 are playing, we need more of that…..

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 28, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

But what with the DASG losing $174 million and all, and Woody having a two-year deal in place, the Hawks could lose the next 20 games and Woody probably won’t get fired.

By the way, Miami won and Detroit is winning.

By Murphy

January 28, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

Im a huge Joe Johnson fan but I totally agree with Da Real Real JJ does not have the mentality that Josh has. If he did he would destroy cats. JJ should be up there with LBJ, KB24, and CP3 cause he has all the skills minus the DEFENSE but he just dosent have the HEART that those dudes have. I dont think a person can learn that which in my opinion means JJ wont lead this team anywhere

By Dan Malave

January 28, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

I am totally in shock by what has happened to Joe Johnson and Mike Bibby. Two weeks ago I would have campaigned for both of them to make it to the all-star game, but right now I don’t think either of them deserve it. I firmly believe that the Hawks should not have representation in the all-star game. It is embarrasing, first how the finished the Phoenix game, (held almost scoreless in the last 6 mins or so), then the Miami disaster, (13 mins without a fg), and now free-throws? Are you kidding me. I would love to see what the hell goes on during their practice sessions. Or are they tking the Allen Iverson approach, Practice? Your talking about practice? I understand that woodson is not the best option, but right now the way things are going economically with the team, they are not going to fire him. After tonight the Hawks are 7 games over .500, so for all you Woody haters, and I include myself, thats not going to happen. Tonight I saw a lot of standing around, no flow to the offense. Again something that I have mentioned many times, Joe can’t expect to make every driving play. He has to look for the foul, Jesus Christ, It’s not that difficult. Get to the paint, take two steps and more times than not he will get fouled. I am very frustrated as a fan, I watch every single game and it’s tough to see them struggle.

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:17 PM | Link to this

HEY GUYS, OUR OWNERSHIP IS LOSING MONEY EVERY YEAR. MAYBE IF WE HAD ANOTHER BAD RECORD (LOL), WE COULD GET ANOTHER GOOD DRAFT PICK THIS YEAR SO THE OWNERSHIP WOULD NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT SPENDING A LOT OF MONEY TO RESIGN PLAYERS WHO DON’T DESERVE TO START OR BE ON THE TEAM.

By The Hawksta

January 28, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this

Fellas, I don’t know about ya’ll but I need the allstar break like yesterday!

It was obvious that Marvin and Josh could have had even bigger nights. Woody won’t run a play for either one of them. Josh got frustrated at the end. He will probably go off in the locker room.

It looked like he was trying to get Joe to past it in to Marv at the post but Joe jacked up another jumper.

Why the hell does Woody keep playing Joe and Bout Time in the forth?

If we lose to f*ing New Jersey again somebody better fire Woody!

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this

Woody says that he has to do something to find Joe some rest. Did he keep his promise? Let’s fact check The Woodson Report(TWR). JJ play 39:55, his season avg 39 mins. So no, he didn’t keep his promise.

Woody said he has to find easier shots for Joe. Tonite TWR shows that Joe was 5-19, .263 from the field. His season avg is .421. Again, Woodson did not keep his promise.

This info is provide by The Woodson Report (TWR) where we fact check his promises….

By terrell barron

January 28, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

Those 3rd quarter blues.

By darrell starks

January 28, 2009 10:23 PM | Link to this

SEKOU what is the sittiuation with ASG who makes the decision does Rick SUND WHO woody needs to go. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:23 PM | Link to this

JOSH SMITH IS EXCELLING BECAUSE WE ARE PLAYING SMALL FRONT COURT PLAYERS.

We are fortunate that we are not playing the very good teams right now or else we would be getting blown out every game.

SHOULD COMMON SINCE TELL WOODY THAT BIBBY CAN’T CHECK THE QUICKER GUARDS IN THE NBA, AND SHOULD WOODY KNOW BY NOW THAT BIBBY CAN DRIVE AROUND ANYONE OR CREATE HIS SHOT AGAINST THE QUICKER GUARD?

By Reggie

January 28, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

Fact: Joe Johnson could be a top 5 NBA player if he had the aggression and mentality. I rarely see him get pumped up on the court and really getting into it. He has the talent and skills. Fact: He might not be an all star right now because of it. Fact: Next year Marvin Williams could very well average 20 points a game. The guy is very versatile and really seems like he has the scorers mentality. Fact: Mike Bibby won’t be here next year I hope. I feel for the best need of this team is a fast paced point guard who can really pass the b-ball. Bibby wants to score too much. We have johnson, jsmash, and williams who all can score plenty and we; don’t have to have one in bibby what we need is a quick PG who can distribute the ball. That would complete the team for me. I would say a good guy would be raymond felton but suddenly the bobbys are in the playoff hunt so that’s really a fantasy. Anyone else agree about bibby. I just don’t feel he fits with this team

By ray

January 28, 2009 10:24 PM | Link to this

CP,

You ain’t right, man, you just ain’t right LOL!

Terrell, if you go young, you have to get rid of Woody. Wait a minute…

By Dan Malave

January 28, 2009 10:25 PM | Link to this

I have question for all you guys: What is it about Acie Law that you guys are talking about? The kid brings nothing to the table right now other than quickness. He has no outside shot whatsoever, he is always carrying the ball with that high dribble and ocasionally gets called for it, he penetrates well but can’t finish. His shot almost always gets blocked and he looks to me like he plays scared. He is to raw to contribute to this team right now. What do you think, Sekou?

By ray

January 28, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

Melvin,

You can rest your case. The defense doesn’t have a chance…

So, Nate Robinson scores 20 in the 4th quarter? Did I hear that right? I guess even a non all-star can do that too, huh?

By The Hawksta

January 28, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

So far this is Josh’s worst year from the line at 63 percent.

For his career he’s at 70 per. Not sure what’s the deal with that?

By Melvin

January 28, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

Oh well, another loss in January but we are still in 4th place, 7 games over .500 and have the COY. Things couldn’t be better…

February can’t get here soon enough…

By ray

January 28, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

And we got pounded on the boards. Again.

By Why Sekou Why?

January 28, 2009 10:30 PM | Link to this

Alright Sekou. I won’t say mean stuff about your buddy Woody anymore. Let’s hope he’s coaching here for years to come. Did you throw him some more soft balls post game? I sure hope so. Let’s not hurt his feelings or anything. When we’re below .500 in a couple weeks I hope you and coach woodson still have a great friendship.

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

THE HAWKSTA

We will lose to New Jersey, but Woody isn’t going anywhere because our owners aren’t making any money.

By the time January 31st gets here, we will be in the 6th spot, Detroit will be in the 5th spot, and Miami will be in the 4th spot because they at least have coaches who can coach a little bit.

It’s time to start looking forward to getting a good draft pick (lol) because Woody is destroying this team.

Oh! By the way, I think JJ has given up mentally because he knows Woody is wearing him out “AND” making bad coaching decisions. Joe Johnson will be gone from this team as soon as possible if Woody and this ownership is still around by the time he becomes a free agent.

By ray

January 28, 2009 10:32 PM | Link to this

Najeh,

I haven’t seen that kind of heat from YOU before. But I gotta say: you’re on point.

Anybody seen Sam? Probably somewhere sticking pins in his Acie voodoo doll…

By Dan Malave

January 28, 2009 10:34 PM | Link to this

Reggie, I disagree. Forget about the shooting ability that Bibby has for a second, but he takes care of the ball and he rarely makes a mistake while running the fast break. Bibby is a winner and a very important piece of the puzzle. The best thing that could happen is for Acie Law to learn from Bibby for a couple of years. The Hawks would not be over .500 without Bibby.

By darrell starks

January 28, 2009 10:37 PM | Link to this

Woody have just drained joe poor joe cant even tie his shoes WHERE IS MY FIRE MIKE WOODSON TSHIRT. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By E. G.

January 28, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this

You all are wondering why this team is falling apart in their free throws, their mental concentration, and teamwork. The answer is Woody. He is the leader of the Hawks’ demise that will happen soon this year.

Go Hawks!! I am looking for a good draft this year.

THANKS WOODY!!

By Lacsho

January 28, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

Man this is Groundhog day

SOS(Same old Shyt)= SOR(Same old Results) Once again the other teams pg’s have a huge game. Matter of fact Nate & Duhon had huge games. Bibby sucks, and Woodson is flat out horrible. Nothing else to say!!!

Ray

I’m going to hit you up once I finish installing a new o/s system on my blackberry. This damn phone is addicting. lol

By Reggie

January 28, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this

Dan does missing layups on fast breaks count. His turnovers are pretty rare but that’s because he really doesn’t ahndle the ball that much for a PG. I just think his scoring really isn’t needed horribly because marvin can pick the slack of his scoring if he moved. I think a very quick distributing PG could have this team as more of a threat coming playoff time.

By TheHawksFan

January 28, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this

Come on home guys. Regroup. Recharge. Its ok. Still proud of you guys for what you HAVE did so far this year. Nothing like a little home cooking to get you going again. MY ONLY COMPLAINT…Freethrows.Do them the easy way- Do the same thing every time when you goto the line. Would luv to see Big AL back in the lineup Friday! Bounce Back Babbbby!! Gooo Hawks!!!!!

By Reggie

January 28, 2009 10:45 PM | Link to this

E.G. Your negativity really isn’t needed right now. As far as I know 4th place in the East doesn’t get you much of a pick Mr. Sunshine!

By Lacsho

January 28, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

That scout was right about JJ. His first step is slow as hell. His whole game is in slow motion. Then he settles with that lame azz jump shot…

Man what does Acie have to do to get some PT? Bibby is playing flat out horrible, and he’s still jacking up shots. Common sense tells you when your shot is off, one should focus on a different part of your game….ie…. assist

By MuthaSucka

January 28, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

Bad game - Hawks will be fine though. Funny how Woody is the scapegoat for all of the Hawks problems. Sure, he’s the coach and is ultimately responsible, but you can’t blame Woody for Bibby’s horrible shooting the last 3 games, porous defense vs. NY in the 2nd half, 15 missed free throws, letting Duhon penetrate at will, letting David Lee dominate in the paint - need I go on?

The Hawks desperately need to get Horford back - they are terribly weak defensively in the paint without him - Zaza is a defensive liability and Solo is a fouling machine.

I’m sick of hearing about Acie Law - whenever he gets in the game, what does he do? Absolutely nothing!

Friday’s game vs. NJ is a must win, in my opinion.

By HB Ando

January 28, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

Very crowded house, here. Lot’s of room to expound your philosophy at the Hacks’ blog.

Don’t be afraid, we don’t bite…….(insert lame joke here).

By MuthaSucka

January 28, 2009 10:58 PM | Link to this

C’mon E. G.

How can you blame Woody for the missed free throws and lack of mental concentration? I don’t like Woody either, but these players are supposed to be professionals - can’t blame the coach for everything.

Let’s face it - the Hawks over-achieved in the 1st half of the year - they can’t afford to have their main guys have shooting slumps and expect to win consistently - their bench is too weak.

Acie is a bust (that’s right - I said it) - Solo can’t stay out of foul trouble - Evans is horribly inconsistent - Morris - don’t make me laugh. With Zaza starting due to Horford’s injury, we are seriously lacking in the big man department.

By cp

January 28, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

The so called coy had another brutal coaching performance… His substitution pattern is still baffling…. He took out a hot Marvin to put in Evans who went on to do nothing.. He took out Josh who was playing well then the Knicks started attacking the basket.. He sat Pachulia down for to long although we were getting destroyed on the glass… He made no adjustments once again.. His answer for our struggling offense was iso iso iso iso iso iso… Our starting back-court struggled again but he rode them anyway…Bibby and Flip were getting destroyed by Nate yet the coy made no defensive adjustments. It was clear to everyone watching the game that they were not quick enough to guard Nate but not to the coy….Josh was looking frustrated and tired by the fourth… I guess trying to defend your own man plus your team mates man because they just got blown by again is tiresome… I would be mad too if I had position in the post yet the guards wanted to continue to jack up shots that were not falling.. I guess the coy saw no need to get Marvin more shots since he was having the best game… Why feed Marvin the ball when your back court is struggling. We know what Woodson will say in the post game interview. It has been the same crap for 5 years now so i don’t expect to hear anything new. I hope ol boy Sund is on the phone working out a deal.

By kirkinga

January 28, 2009 11:10 PM | Link to this

Here we go again, the Hawks in the midst of a grueling part of the schedule without one of their key players. The result? Same as the first time, a mini losing streak.

The Hawks entered their first such slump 6-0, this time the enter in 10 games above .500. So in other words, even with the 3-game losing streak they are playing above .500 ball since the first injury and fatigue-assisted slump.

No matter what anyone says, the Hawks are 26-19 and in 4th place still! It’s going to be a tough fight for that 4th spot that so many expect the Hawks to secure.Definitely not stuff for the faint of heart fan.

Guys(and ladies), I like our schedule in February alot more than Detroit,or Miami. Philly looks to have the easier month out of all 4.Horford will be back during the month and the Hawks will end February much stronger than they are ending January.

Then as the dogwoods begin to bloom, the real make or break month will begin as the Hawks play what are likely to be 10-11 playoff teams from the East and West.The Hawks need to get and stay healthy, build a margin in February and then see what happens in March. They don’t want to enter March more than 3-4 games out of 4th.

No need to panic, nothing to see here folks. Move along. :)

Go Hawks!!

By MuthaSucka

January 28, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

cp,

I don’t think Woody can do anything to please some of you on here. People complain that Woody plays his starters too many minutes - but you complain when Woody subbed for Marvin (who played 43 minutes) and Josh (who played 38 minutes).

Our starting backcourt struggled, and Evans did nothing, so except for Flip, who else do we have? Don’t even mention no-jump shooting Acie or Mario.

By doc

January 28, 2009 11:16 PM | Link to this

february is going to be brutal guys followed by a march that has competition ramped up not like last years walk in the park we barely got through. horford better come in rad yo fx some leaks and right the ship or it is going down fast.

lacsho, watch out what you say bud about jj because the attack dogs will come out and try to bite you for saying the same things i said about him a couple of weeks ago. now you can call it an extended slump. i think it is who he is. the guy isnt quick nor explosive. they better find a running mate for him soon or an offense that isnt totally dependent on him as teams seem to have caught up with him for the the time being.

milwaukee game an anomaly?

By Reggie

January 28, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

If I didn’t know NBA and I got on this blog I would think the hawks would have about 10 wins. Now I’m not saying I’m satisfied but come on we’re 4th in the EAST

By kirkinga

January 28, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

Oh, and I would like to give a * Special Shout Out* to the dance team from my alma mater. Offending the sensibilities of spectators at the basketball game and prompting investigations no less.

Way to go Cardinals!!

Go Hawks!!

By cp

January 28, 2009 11:45 PM | Link to this

I guess you missed the point of me saying taking guys out when they are hot. Joe and Bibby should have came out before Marvin and Josh. I wasn’t talking about minutes. I was talking about taking guys out who were in a rhythm. Plus Woodson seems to take Marvin out every game at the same point regardless if he is playing well or not. He did the same thing last year when we had Childress. Marvin could score 10 points but as soon as the 6 or 7 minute mark came up he was coming out regardless of what he was doing on the court. That’s the point I was making. It wasn’t about the minutes. It was about the situation. And how long are people going to use that we are the fourth seed speech. Miami looks like they are about to pass us. I guess then it will be we are the 5th seed speech then. We are slowly creeping down and teams under us are moving up.

By The Hawksta

January 28, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

Get Woody outta here!

Times have changed kirk! There isn’t much these teenagers won’t do. My daughter called me hon(short for honey) the other day… I almost lost it! She didn’t even blink when she said it.

This coach does absolutely nothing that any of us can do when it comes to game planning. I use to think Woody was ok last year due to the pg situation but it’s obvious he’s no wiz. I hate complaining all the time. It Josh improve so can everyone else. He’s rised his game. Now who else is gonna look in the mirror!

FREE ACIE

By The Hawksta

January 28, 2009 11:55 PM | Link to this

cp

I second your opinion. I felt the same way! Joe and “bout time” should have came out the game before Marv and Josh. But no Woody has to do things the same all the time. Marv is always the first to come out then Bibby then Horford and Josh. Joe plays and plays and plays and plays to his darn legs fall off!

By darrell starks

January 29, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

WHY DO PEOPLE CONTINUE TO DEFEND WOODY WHO has the worst winning percentage among NBA COACHES IF WOODY WAS COACHING IN any other city HE would have been fired look IN ORDER FOR this team to go to the next level there has to be a coaching change PERIOD ANY ONE WHO NO BASKETBALL WILL TELL YOU THAT HE IS NOT DOING A GOOD JOB COACHING THIS TEAM IS NOT WINNING BY COACHING THERE WINNING with free LANCING basketball witch mean streetball HE IS WASTING the talent on the team and dont no what to do. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By The Hawksta

January 29, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

Joe’s my guy… I need to do more about getting him better shots. Same stuff BWAF! I might as well listen to the person that calls Charlie Brown. You ain’t saying nothing!

By **The Hawksta**

January 29, 2009 12:18 AM | Link to this

Joe maybe you should just fake an injury so you can get some rest! Sekou is this the longest Bout time Bibby has played without an injury in 5 years?

By **The Hawksta**

January 29, 2009 12:22 AM | Link to this

Mr Starks you broke my posting streak(lol)! I was gonna break a record!

I will never ever defend Woody again. All I want is for him to try something different. He possesses no inovation at all. Nothing that shows he’s better than any othere coach.

By wallyf

January 29, 2009 12:26 AM | Link to this

ANOTHER LOST?? To the Knicks?? Comments from players, and observations from other games, the Hawks have to be LAST in taking charges and playing team defense. Other teams take it right to them and no one steps in unless they think they have a block angle. This team will all this talent, even though young, should be right up there with Orlando. Its about playing hard and they take too many halves/ quaters off. These guys are well-paid, earn just a little of it PLEASE. I look Woodson put he pats too many butts. We need someone to hold these guys accountable and its not being done by the sport writers either.

By The Truth

January 29, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

From what I saw; Woody must have spooked the team during half-time. The Hawks in the second half looked entirely different. What ever Woody said during the break had the opposite effect. I agree with Josh, the Hawks played awful defense in the 3rd quarter. They gave-up too many easy baskets in the lane. I thought Bibby was the most dead-weight player on the team. In addition to a poor defender, he is a terrible finisher who loves to spot-up for 3’s off opponent’s turn-overs only to miss. How can you make-up ground playing like that? Compared to Flip, off opponent’s turn-overs, will go strong to the basket or has confidence to knock-down shots. With Bibby in the game, we were not able to capitalize on the Kick’s turn-overs. We had many opportunities to win this game despite bad free throw shooting. With the exception of Josh, Marvin, Flip and maybe Zaza, this team has loss confidence. We are missing leadership right now on the court. Our so-call leaders are laying more eggs. Maybe if Acie had been developed, we would have another game changing option off the bench, but he is not ready (Thank you Woody). Now we are stuck with no answers in this situation. Is it possible that we could miss the play-off altogether? Maybe now is the time to make some acquisition, if nothing else, it could boost the morale. The trading deadline is approaching fast.

By Ed

January 29, 2009 2:02 AM | Link to this

Woody needs to take a cue from Mike Brown…he pretty much turned his offense over to his assistant coach this year & they are vastly improved

By uga-brave

January 29, 2009 3:12 AM | Link to this

until anyone believes JOSH SMITH IS THE PROBLEM.

2-10 FROM THE LINE.

CANT DEFEND, sure he blocks shots, but he does not deny the ball. does not play defense.

does not deny his player without the ball.

defense is denying your player without position.

dont blame woody, blame his poward forward.

josh smith stinks.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 7:33 AM | Link to this

Memo to Hawks Management:

Dear Hawks Management,

I have to agree with all the whiners on the Hawks blog - it’s time to fire Woody. I mean, the guy missed 15 free throws in the Knicks game. He let Nate Robinson erupt for 20 points in the 4th quarter - he just doesn’t play defense for 4 quarters. In the Phoenix game, he went over 13 minutes without scoring - didn’t execute down the stretch - even missed layups. In the Miami game, he scored 27 points in the firat half - a new team record for fewest points @ halftime. What’s up with his shooting percentage the last few games? - are they really considering him for the all-star team?

Hawks Management - If you fire Woody, all of the Hawks problems will be solved - heck, they may not lose another game. Acie will become an all-star, Solo will dominate in the paint.

Finally, Woody has a 26-19 record - # 4 in the East - totally unacceptable!! Look at the Toronto Raptors - they fired their coach and never looked back - now they’re 19-28 and flying high!!

So, Hawks Management … why do you think the team is falling apart in their free throws, their mental concentration, and teamwork? Like E.G. said, The answer is Woody. Fire Woody and you win the championship this year !!

By Clyde

January 29, 2009 7:33 AM | Link to this

FIRE WOODY

Another loss in a game we should have won. Its getting old.

Where is my boy Samuel? Can I get a Woody=Coach of the Year?

Coach of the year my a$$. Stop speading that ignorance.

FIRE WOODY

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 7:43 AM | Link to this

I agree Clyde - I’m finally on the fire Woody bandwagon - see my post - January 29, 2009 7:33 AM.

The Hawks should have won the game - it IS getting old. How can Woody miss 15 free throws? He let little Nate Robinson score 20 pts. in the 4th quarter? Woody has to go!!

Oh, by the way Clyde, do you have a replacement for Woody in mind? Just askin’. Is Red Auerbach still available?

By O'brien

January 29, 2009 8:13 AM | Link to this

I am not a Woody fan, and I agree that the players have to take some of the blame for not executing or playing defense like Woody wants them to. But at the same time, if the team is not responding to the coach anymore, then you have to make a change. (At the end of the season).

But Woody always gets outcoached. He goes away from what’s working, and if the other team takes it away, he has no adjustments, no strategies, no offensive system. He needs to be an assistant coach, who’s in charge of defense.

By terrell barron

January 29, 2009 8:53 AM | Link to this

Smith and Horford are untouchable. Everyone else is expendable. Lets build around our youngsters. Might as well. This team is’nt going anywhere. We can draft a pg to replace Bibby, and trade JJ to the Lakers for Bynum. This team as constructed right now is an eyesore. We can play Marvin at the 2 spot. 1.Patrick Mills/Acie 2.Marvin/Flip 3.Smoove/Evans 4.Horford/James Johnson(2nd rdr.) 5.Bynum/Solo

By Ken Strickland

January 29, 2009 9:09 AM | Link to this

MOTHA-You can blame Woody because the primary cause of those missed free throws and lack of concentration is caused by either playing too many mins or not getting enough consistent mins. The over utilization of certain players and the under utilization of others is all on Woodson. The players that are having the most problems, and starting to be inconsistent, are the ones playing the most mins. That’s not by accident.

Anyone that gives Woody credit for the Hawks 1st half preformance that’s given them a winning record, has to attribute the recent inconsistency of the team and certain players to him as well. It’s obvious the players aren’t responding to his gruff demeanor or his overall approach to coaching and dealing with players, especially young players.

The 1st few yrs after Woodson was hired, he played his bench and used young players liberally because he wasn’t expected to win. That meant he wasn’t under any pressure of losing his job. Starting last yr, especially the 2nd half of the season, fans and the SAASG had expectations of us making the playoffs. Therefore, Woodson was expected to produce positive results for the 1st time in his career as a HC. That’s when he started his confrontational approach towards the younger players, ignoring his bench, as well as his overuse of certain players.

As last yrs 2nd half expectations have been carried over to this season, and with his job security on the line, Woodson has rapidly reverted to the same approach he employed the 2nd half of last yr. The problem is, after the Allstar break, we won’t have the excitement of making and participating in the playoffs as an energizer and/or motivator. The truth is, the Hawks are talented, versatile and deep enough that any oneof our assistant coach’s could have coached this team to it’s current record, or better, without all the drama.

By kenneth

January 29, 2009 9:19 AM | Link to this

Fatigue is the problem with Bibby and Johnson . Not developing the bench will be the downfall of this team. As I said before, Woody is a good person, but a below average coach who refuses to learn from his mistakes. Your starting point guard goes 2 for 11 with 5 points and you have no back up plan. I think the team no longer listens to Woody and are basically doing their own thing on the court. Why would management set a mediocre goal of just making the playoffs with a winning record? Having a winning record could be 1 game over 500. They are doing nothing to improve the bench because they are satisfied. Satisfied with mediocrity. Teams that are serious about winning a championship are never satisfied with just making the playoffs. They are always looking for ways to improve their chances. Just look at Boston ,as great as they are, they are looking to add another big man and possibly adding Stephon Marberry to the mix. What have the Hawks done to improve the team? Nothing! This is why they will make the playoffs as a 7 or 8 and be done in the first round again. And this time it will not be a seven game series. Will somebody plese wake up and smell the coffee!

By E. G.

January 29, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this

Kenneth

I SMELL THE COFFEE. THAT’S WHY I’D RATHER SEE THEM NOT MAKE THE PLAYOFFS SO WE CAN HAD A DECENT DRAFT PICK AND FIRE WOODY IN THE PROCESS.

WHY BARELY MAKE THE PLAYOFFS BECAUSE YOU REALLY DON’T HAVE A COACH WHO IS COACHING THE TEAM. QUALIFY FOR THE DRAFT, AND THEN GET A COACH WHO CAN USE HIS PLAYERS EFFECTIVELY.

By smartguy

January 29, 2009 9:31 AM | Link to this

Woody defenders are comical.

By Ben

January 29, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

MARK PRICE: PLEASE WORK WITH JOSH SMITH ON FREE THROWS. THANKS

By Dan Malavé

January 29, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

To all of you that are talking about building, where the hell have you been for the last 10 years. The Hawks did that. Now it’s time to find the right combinations and go for it. The talent is there. Everybody talks about them needing to add a big man, well guess what there are no quality big men out there. The only way to get somebody like that would be to trade for one and that would mean giving away a key player, instead of adding or complimenting the current roster. Guys stop talking crazy!!! Once Joe and Bibby start getting hot again, you’ll see what happens. For now we just have to weather the storm, ‘til Horford comes back. In the meantime we have to do a better job at the free-throw line. What happened last night against the Knicks is unacceptable. Josh Smith 2 for 10 from the line, Ouch!!!!

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

Although he’s not playing well, at least you have to admire Bibby for taking responsible

“If I do anything at all we win,” said Bibby, who was 2-for-13 from the floor and finished with five points and seven assists. “They outscored us by 16, and that’s my average. Give them credit, they picked it up, but we weren’t scoring in the second half and they were scoring easy. That’s the game right there.”

And our ALL-STAR and Captain wants to include everyone instead of stepping up and showing some leadership when this team needs it the most.

“We’re going to keep getting our [expletives] kicked if we play like this,” Joe Johnson said. “We’re playing like [expletive] right now. Plain and simple

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this

Look guys…what I really meant to say is….

Coach Woodson has the greatest record of anyone coaching in the NBA right now. He never runs his stars into the ground. Always makes great halftime adjustments. He really knows how to work a rotation of the bench and feed the hot hand. He knows tons more plays than just Isolation. He gets the best out of each player. He never holds personal grudges and lets it affect his team. He shows tons of emotion and enthusiasm on the sidelines calling plays and directing his team. His assistants could NOT do a better job than him. He is an amazing man with amazing talents and I hope he’s here for another 30 years! I love him….

I got a Woody!

By HOME GROWN aka E.J.

January 29, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

Some try and say that this is not a Woodrow thing, he is not missing shots, playing bad “D” or bricking free throws. But if his coaching was better would he not make adjustments for the short comings that he sees every night. Do we not come up short in loses the same way? Or do we find new ways to lose? When your major scoring contributors are not on, you have to find ways to change the game with your coaching. How about going down low to the post with whatever you have to try and get something there. The foul shots were not dropping and that’s a problem in and of itself. You have to try something to slow down a player that is feeling it right? In the article by Sekou, Woodrow talked about finding a way to get JJ out of his slump, have we seen him do anything different. This team has won, but do we resemble a team getting better, learning from mistakes and improving? Or do we look like we are hanging on to some spot that is slowly slipping away? We are without AL, but it will take time for him to get back into playing shape/timing. We need something, but I am not sure that Woodrow knows what that something is.

By Dan

January 29, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

Can someone tell me why the Hawks waste money on Mark Price? He has the biggest bllsht job I have ever heard of! Shooting coach?!?!?

He is doing one h*ll of a job, too. Josh Smith shoots free throws like a f’ing third grader. Mike Bibby gets a little worse every game and Joe Johnson could not hit water if he fell out of a boat right now. Thank God we have that shooting coach, though….

By Sekou - You Speak For US

January 29, 2009 10:06 AM | Link to this

Say something to Woody about all of his wrong doings for once! You can print things in the paper or in you blog but have you actually said anything negative to Woody before? Go back and read these comments. 90% are legit concerns about our coach. Bring some of these issues to his attention. He doesn’t read the AJC or your blog I’m sure. But you speak with him. So stand up for Hawks fans and say what needs to be said.

By Dan

January 29, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

Ed,

I’m with ya! There are fans who are just so in love with Josh’s game. I don’t get it. He has all the potential in the world, I will agree with that. I do not think, however, that he will ever reach that potential. He is just too much of a punk…..That’s right, I said it!

He goes 2 for 10 from the line. The team is one of the league’s worst at the line. Today, in the paper, Josh tries to claim that FT’s aren’t the problem. Ummm…..Another example of that 2nd grade education shining through….

Also, I love how on multiple occasions last night he failed to get back on D so he could argue with the refs. The result? Easy NY buckets, over and over again…

The guy was a mistake to sign. Should have let him walk on over to Memphis…

By ILL-logical

January 29, 2009 10:17 AM | Link to this

SS referenced the blog in his sidebar in the dead tree edition, so keep those cards and letters coming.Our voices are being heard.

By terrell barron

January 29, 2009 10:19 AM | Link to this

7th spot by the end of the week. Bank on it!

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 10:38 AM | Link to this

Terrell,

Don’t bank on it …

It’s not mathematically possible for the Hawks to slip to the # 7 spot this week …

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 10:46 AM | Link to this

Dan,

Mark Price can’t shoot the shots for Joe, Josh, and Bibby. Just because Price was a great shooter, he’s supposed to turn everyone into a great shooter? Why does everyone blame the coaching staff for everything? Oh well, I guess you can’t fire the team, so …

By the way, last time I looked, they are 26-19 - # 4 in the East.

By bigdave

January 29, 2009 10:56 AM | Link to this

well i guess you can call me a Joe Johnson “attack dog”, better yet,im the Desert Eagle in his back pocket…

funny how that same “slow motion/boring” game revitalized the city,made the league take notice,had the basketball world outside of us diehards/bloggers, talking Atlanta Hawks basketball, after those game 4 heroics..how that “slow motion/boring” game at its best is one of the hardest in the league to defend..

that performance was a gift and a curse. you would have thought, and it looked that way early, that we would have carried the momentum of last years post season into this season. we’ve carried somethings, its just those are the things we should have left. its a shame that Joe has a head coach who got star stuck after Joe’s performance. my question is what is the harm in knowing that you have a player that can put his city,and team, on his back refuse to lose and will you to victory? instead, we have a coaching staff that has devised and offesive scheme in attempt to repeat this performance over 82 gameswith hopes of player more. im 23 years old, i probably havent seen as much hoops/sports, as some of you guys; but i have never in this era seen a player out of the guard position account for as much of the teams overall strategy and concepts as Joe this year. ive said time and time again, that most of our offensive sets naturally allow 2 passes and consist of poor floor spacing. Joe is the same player he was when he first dawned an Atlanta jersey. you know what you’re getting with Joe, production. However, Joe is not a selfish player and has never been, yet he is expected to excel in a system that in principle demands that of him. remember this is the same player that in seasons past made pleas to management for roster help. yes, he is game is struggling right now, however, we are seeing a physically and mentally fatigued player.

Joe’s “slow motion/boring” gameis most effective when he has his jumper working. that opens up his game, allowing him to drive (and you re s** me if you feel he cantthe boy has the ball on a yo yo) and create etc. however, consistency in your jumper requires legs; because of this we get this modified Joe who isnt deliberate in his attack, that is forced to do things he is unaccustomed to doing with regularity because of the lack confidence in his normal abilities. what makes this worst is *we have a coach that fine with this because, according to him, Joe is playing at an all-star level by doing “everything we ask of him”. well coach, you had a player on the cusp of superstardom but you didnt know it, cause you dont know your talent and mis manage they’re strengths.. if this regime is altering/harming Joe i can only imagine the potential in our younger players that will never be achieved. *its really no telling what type team we have.. not when our star player is asked to play in isolation, and in result we have no chemistry.

By cp

January 29, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

smartguy I was thinking the same thing lol.

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

Tiger, I also remembering the Hawks having a 4 game lead over the 5th place team just last week. That was so long ago….

By The Truth

January 29, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

The wind is starting to blow in Woody’s face. As your stock broker would say, past performance will not guarantee future results. Translation: Just because we have a record of 26-19 with an improved record from last year after pushing Boston to 7 games, does not guarantee that we will make the playoff this year. Maybe Woody’s mistake stems from paying too much attention to the 4th seed standing in the middle of the season instead of just coaching the players to get better. As the saying goes, it not how you start the season, but how you finish that counts. Its ok for us fans to have win/losses and record/standing discussions but coaches should just coach and not show that kind of concern. Has he really spooked the team? Perhaps he has injected the fear of losing into the minds of the players. It is well understood that coaches have a profound effect on the psychology of his players. The losses could get worse, if that is the case. Empty promises to the media will not work anymore either; only positive results will silent the critics.

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

NJ Nets comes to town Friday and they own our a$$ this year. Will this team show some intestinal fortitude and pull out a win…

By Dan

January 29, 2009 11:05 AM | Link to this

Tiger Woo,

You are missing my point. I know that the players have to make the shots. My point was that the position of shooting coach is ridiculous. It is a joke job and serves no purpose. This team would be the same, with or without a shooting coach.

I don’t know how much they pay Mark Price for that role. Whatever it is, however, is too much.

Mark Price should have to buy a ticket to games.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this

Melvin,

Let’s get Horford back and see what happens. He’s a very important piece that we are missing. Nothing is guaranteed, but the Hawks are still in OK shape - for now. Can they bounce back again? Will it get ugly? Let’s wait and see …

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this

Dan,

Who knows? Perhaps Price is helping some guys in practice. Maybe the results are not immediate, may show up over time - if the Hawks don’t think he’s helping anyone, I would guess they would no longer keep him on staff.

By Astro Joe

January 29, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

I’m predicting the rookies defeat the sophomores in this year’s All-Star challenge.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

The consensus on here is that we should fire Mike Woodson - like immediately!!

I have few questions for you experts out there …

Who is the best candidate available right now that can step in and fix all that is so-called wrong with the Hawks right now?

Should the new coach work in some obviously deficient bench players right now at the expense of possible victories in the short term and focus more on resting his core players for the long term?

If the coaching change didn’t show any improvement, would you be willing to admit that Woody may not have been the primary problem and the Hawks are actually who they are - a decent young team that may be lacking in some areas - on the front line and on the bench?

I look forward to your responses - especially some of you that seem to have all the answers.

By HOME GROWN aka E.J.

January 29, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

The Truth Man you have a great point. Maybe Woodrow and his supporters are putting to much on this 4th seed thing and not paying attention to (1) What the problems are and (2) HOW TO FIX THEM and not just talk about it. Being in the fourth spot is great, but we have not made it to the allstar break yet. How do you feel about the direction of this team? In life in general, “it’s not how you start, but it’s how you finish” We started with great defence, fresh legs and motivation from last year. I think that all of those tanks are running low.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 12:02 PM | Link to this

Hey HOME GROWN aka E.J.

Nobody in the NBA really has fresh legs right now. Like you said “it’s not how you start, but it’s how you finish” - that may be true, but shouldn’t we wait UNTIL they finish before we pass judgement? The # 4 seed is just that - doesn’t guarantee that they will make the playoffs - doesn’t say they won’t make it to the NBA Conference Finals - but it is what it is right now.

I will say it again - Woody may not be the best coach and may not be the long term answer, but firing a coach with a 26-19 record just isn’t going to happen.

By Wink from Lithonia

January 29, 2009 12:26 PM | Link to this

Bigdave, Truth, Tiger

What are the solutions to this team lack of consistency? This team is not getting any better. Yes, we won a few playoff games against the eventual NBA champs. We had a fast start, now we don’t know how stay in a game early. We led the league early in 3 point shooting, even then we were not pulling away from teams, now we can’t buy a 3. Josh has reeled his game in some, toward the paint, but Joe is on the decline. Bibby & Marvin are not hitting open shots, at least not right now. We have no interior game, not running the balll up & not making free throws. What CAN we do?

We have to play the hand we been dealt, not a good hand, but a hand.

The Spirit group is not making any changes,they seem happy with 4th seeding at present, which means Woody is not going anywhere. Joe is our only star player, not superstar, we will live or die with his slow motion Iso’s. Will he even make the All Star game??? Our best pound for pound player is Horford. Acie is either to passive when on the floor or wasted potential on the bench. FlipMo is just Flip…there goes our bench because Woody want play anyone else. Guys what CAN we do? Somebody, Anybody offer solutions….

By Blast

January 29, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this

It is what it is. Last night game was what it was. Atlanta Hawks are the team that they are. They are not top of the league, not bottom fodder either, just somewhere in the middle of the pack. This season for the Hawks seemed defined this way. Win 6 straight, lose 4 straight. Win 4 in a row, lose 3 in a row. Win 3 in a row, then lose currently 4? in a row. Wow! What an inconsistent team. I just hope they regain their mojo really quick, because all fans are agonizing right now. Anything short of the 5th seed in the playoffs will be unacceptable. 4th will be infinitely better.

Joe Johnson and All Star? Should not even be a debate, despite his and the Hawks current slide. Look for Ernie Johnson to announce his name tonight.

Go Hawks! Please play better basketball.

By E. G.

January 29, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

TIGER WOO AND OTHERS

These guys aren’t concentrating. I don’t think they are happy with Woody, and they have no respect for him because they know he does not know what he is doing.

Horford is out, but we still struggled against these teams before he got hurt because of Woody. I am telling you; these guys are tired of the same predictable WOODY.

There has been only one game when they put away a sub 500 teams, and that’s ridiculous. Why? WOODY doesn’t know when to rest players even when they have a big lead in the fourth quarter. These guys are tired physically and mentally or the same old mess.

I used to like watching this team, but now it looks like I am watching a high school game. TIGER WOO, the Hawks will be a 500 team shortly, but it only takes 500 ball to qualify for the playoffs in the EAST.

By E. G.

January 29, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

The Hawks will not regain their mojo because there is no mojo. We are an average team, and an average team plays 500 ball. Remember, it only takes a matter of time for other teams with new or young players to finally develope some chemistry. That is the only reason why the Hawks was beating some of the sub 500 teams. However, these teams are getting better, and our team is staying the same. The players are running the same predictable players, and all the other teams know what they are going to do before they do it because of WOODY’s predictable coaching and limited bench. The worse is yet to come.**

By Hey Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

Do you go to bed at night in your Coach Woodson shirt with a picture of him crossing his arms and pouting? Do you have posters of him on your walls? Is he your favorite Coach of all time. Are you related to him? There’s gotta be some sort of serious connection between you and him for you to stick up for this LOSER so much. Look at his records with us:

2004-05 13 69 .188
2005-06 26 56 .317
2006-07 30 52 .366
2007-08 37 45 .451

What of any of those seasons warrants us keeping him? In any other city he would have been fired by now. I don’t care if he’s gotten gradually better. That’s 4 years of being well below 500. Is it because we took the C’s to 7? Is that it? If that is your only reason you are crazy! He’s a LOSER. I don’t care if he’s over .500 right now. There are a lot worse coaches out there that could be over .500 with this talent. That’s right…TALENT! We do have a great team. And if run correctly (ie…calling more plays than just isolation, preparing your team for each game, teaching your team to MOVE WITHOUT THE BALL, teaching your team fundamentals (ex. jerry sloan b-ball), knowing how to use the pick and roll which if done correctly works 65% of the time in the NBA, not running your players into the ground @ the highest minute clip in the NBA…and many many more things…i could go on and on and on). So tell me Tiger….why should we keep your friend?!?!

Give me reasons why besides “who is better that is available”. Because at this point..my Grandma is better and she doesn’t know sh*t about basketball.

Thanks Pal

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 1:02 PM | Link to this

Good points Blast …

The Hawks ARE who they are - maybe the quick 6-0 start got us thinking that the Hawks are suddenly an elite team. However, there is no excuse for their lack of instensity starting some games and lack of consistency from game to game. Sure, some of that is definitely the coach’s fault, but as professionals, the bottom line is the players need to step up.

E.G.

I really hope the Hawks don’t end up being a .500 team - unfortunately injuries have weakened what was already an experienced bench with little depth. When we get Horford back, hopefully we can get back to the rotations that were effective earlier in the season.

Wink,

You are correct - We have to play the hand we been dealt - let’s support what we have, it could be much worse.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

First of all, “Hey Tiger Woo”,

Woody is not my friend - don’t even know him. If you read my posts, you never see where I said I like him as a coach. All I have been saying all along is the Hawks have an over .500 record for the first time in many years and I don’t think he deserves to be fired. How that translates to Woody being my favorite coach is beyond me.

And no - we do not have a GREAT team - where do you get that from?

It’s not my decision to fire, rehire, or shoot Woody, so don’t ask me why we should keep him.

How many championship rings does the great Jerry Sloan have? I thought so …

Teaching your team to move without the ball? Knowing how to use the pick and roll? Should you really have to teach that? This is the NBA - not some pee-wee church league of 6 year olds. Get real! And quit using my name in vain!

By Tiger Woo = Woodson Supporter

January 29, 2009 1:34 PM | Link to this

“This is the NBA - not some pee-wee church league of 6 year olds”

So why does our Woodson coach like it is? Why does he not undestand basic playcalling?(you have to have more than one play). Why does he ride players until they cannot breathe? Why does he not have his players moving with out the ball and setting screens and using pick and rolls? If it’s so easy and “church league” then why aren’t we doing it? Why are other teams running us over doing it? Why don’t we make halftime adjustments? Why do we come out looking like a big bag of crap in the first quarter? Who’s fault is it for not having out team prepared? Who’s excited that he’s finally over .500 and doesn’t think he should be fired even though it took him 4 years to get there and he doesn’t have a firm grasp on it.

“It’s not my decision to fire, rehire, or shoot Woody, so don’t ask me why we should keep him.”

You sure have alot of opinions on why we should NOT fire him so that’s a hypocritical statement. You seem to blame the team mostly for anything and take the blame off the coach. It falls on everyone shoulders. He’s not doing a good job. Let me ask you one question.

If we did (somehow) have a coach like Jerry Sloan or Phil Jackson right now. What do you think our record would be? How are we so sure that one of his assistants can’t turn this ship around and get the players more motivated?

Thanks!

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 1:43 PM | Link to this

Tiger Woo = Woodson Supporter,

I already told you why I think we should keep Woody in several posts - what more do you want from me?

I didn’t blame anyone for anything - please find one of my posts where I blamed anyone. Actually, there is no one to blame - the Hawks are 26-19 and I am enjoying the season so far. Looks like it hasn’t been up to the expectations of some people - so be it.

It took him 4 years because he inherited a team in shambles - that’s why.

I’m sure Woody prepares the team as best he can - it’s up to the players to go out and execute, isn’t it?

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

By the way,

Utah is 25-21 right now … what’s up? I thought Jerry Sloan was so great - maybe they should fire him !! LOL !!

By HOME GROWN aka E.J.

January 29, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Tiger

I understand what you are saying, and I never said that I wanted the coach to be fired. What I want is a team that beleives in the method/shceme that the coach implements. Has Woody lost the team, what do you think? Al coming back, will that vastly improve the shooting perecntage of our back court?

By kwooden1

January 29, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

Lost last nights game at the free-throw line. JJ will correct his shot, and JS should be able to fix his issues with a little work. The problem I’ve seen over the last few games is poor team defense. I listened to this game on the internet, but I watch the last two wins against Chicago and the Bucks. JJ looks a little fatigued which I think is making him indecisive on offensive. JS hasn’t been focusing at the line all year and it really caught up with him last night. Marvin was clearly the best player last night. Bibby has been struggling, but Flip has been playing well. With that said it all comes back to getting enough stops and it hasn’t happened the last three games.

It will be good to have a health Horford back, but Woody still needs to use this time to get his bench some more playing time. Solo’s been playing well, but Zaza has been earning his minutes. Never been a Woody supporter, so I’m with the crew that wants him to go. But at this point in the season, I wouldn’t fire him until they drop below 500. I think the guys play for him and if he gets fired prematurely I think it will have a negative effect in the locker room. Woody has to find away to get Bibby and JJ going!

GO HAWKS!!

By Tiger Woo = Woodson Supporter

January 29, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

The Jazz are 1026 and 622 under Sloan. He’s won 60% of his games.

The Hawks are 132 and 241 under Woodson. He’s won 35% of his games.

Wow just typing that record out kinda makes me sick to my stomach. 132 and 241!!! Unreal. Ok, one more question (and please elaborate)

If we get below .500 would you pull the trigger if you were upper management?

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

HOME GROWN aka E.J.

I don’t think Woody has lost his team but as the coach, he needs to find a way to get the Hawks to play more consistently.

Horford coming back will give the Hawks that inside scoring presence they are lacking - Zaza stepped in pretty well, but Horford’s intensity and rebounding has been missed.

As far as the backcourt, Bibby is just off the mark right now - he went through a similar funk at the end of last season - he will snap out of it - too good of a shooter. Teams are making it real difficult for Joe right now - again, he’s a great shooter - his touch will definitely come back.

By Tiger Woo = Woodson Supporter

January 29, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

“I’m sure Woody prepares the team as best he can - it’s up to the players to go out and execute, isn’t it?”

How are you “sure” of this? Are you in the locker room? Do you talk to the players? Because it seems apparent to the other 95% of us on this blog that he does NOT have his team prepared. But I guess that makes us all wrong and you right huh?

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

The Jazz have also had much more experienced talent over those years than the Hawks have had under Woody - and sure, Sloan is a good coach - just had to let you know that the Hawks have a better record than Utah so far THIS year!!

If the Hawks somehow fall below .500 and miss the playoffs this year or qualify as a # 7 or # 8 seed, yes - it would be definitely time for a new coach. I don’t think firing him in mid-season would make a positive impact on this season - In fairness to the new guy, I’d like to see them bring in somebody fresh into training camp next season.

By Tiger Woo

January 29, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

Tiger Woo = Woodson Supporter,

Again, I am enjoying this season so far - it’s nice to have a team as the # 4 seed and in the thick of the playoff race.

The 95% of you guys on the blog are not in the locker room or talk to the players either, do you? So it’s not a matter of whose right or wrong - it’s all speculation anyway, right?

Go Hawks - keep up the good work!! Don’t give up, coaching staff!!

By steve

January 29, 2009 4:41 PM | Link to this

if the hawks wait to long to do something,we will suffer for it.being the 6th,7th,or 8th seed this year equals a sweep. bos,orl,and the cavs are not playing this year.wake up joe johnson and see that your lack of agression is killing the hawks,flop,act like someone hits you,or even complain to the refs sometime.jj you are a role player at this point in your career until you figure out that a jump shooter that dribbles to much that is scared to drive wont be mentioned in top 10 player talk you will remain average top 50 at best.potential doesn’t make a great player…

By Ken Strickland

January 29, 2009 6:07 PM | Link to this

DAN-where were your complaints about Mark Price earlier when we were hitting our freethrows and leading the NBA in 3pt shooting? The only person that can overcome our issue of fatigue, and the problems it causes, is HC Mike Woodson. Poor DEF, freethrow shooting, 3pt and overall shooting, along with poor execution and turnovers, will always become issues when FATIGUE sets in.

By terrell barron

January 29, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this

Damn. I guess JJ wont get his needed time off.

By Reggie

January 29, 2009 7:52 PM | Link to this

The negativity on this blog is absolutely amazing right now. We are in a horrible slump, Yes. I don’t understand why it’s incredible though. WE are approaching the all star break where many players are just looking ahead. We are playing without the heart of our team in some ways with Horford. Our guards are in HORRIBLE slumps. The team is still the 4th seed! No it’s not this 4th seed talk. Is there something wrong with that?! Or is that not the Atlanta Hawks tradition? Because we are used to being in the 2 seed huh? Stop the whining because it’s absolutely sickening me. Shut up the talk about Woody’s past record. You try going into a situation like he was his first years. Is there a problem with his record this year? Definitely not. I could care less about before. He’s done a beautiful job with developing smith, williams, and even johnson. The smith hating also is deserved to stop. The ignorant comment about him “stinking” is just pathetic. You call his play as of late “stinky”. Oh ok you’re right, 20.3 ppg and 11.6 rpg in his last 6 games is ridiculous right. Also someone said marvin is off. Since he came back he has gone 24-47 fg and 6-15 3pt plus putting up 18.5 ppg and 7.5 rpg. That’s bad too? Now if joe can pick up the slack it’s fine with Horford added. Do I think Woodson is great? no. I don’t think anyone can do a better job if they came in right now either though. He will not get fired so give it a rest. WERE ON A 3 GAME LOOSING STREAK OMG!!!!!! That’s how you sound right now. Big deal we’re not slipping down the charts. We are still a 4th seed and we’re not going to fall to 7 tomorrow. E.G. You need to go somewhere else because Nobody wants to miss the playoffs so we can get a #12 draft pick so stop your babying. We have our young talent. I’m not sure why you want to get another pick, so woody will have to develop him too. Terell Barron your comment was absolutely funny to read with your horrible intelligence about basketball there. You want us to just drop Bibby without signing him in the off-season and draft patrick mills? Then you want to play marvin williams at sg? your kidding me? trade joe johnson to LA for andrew Bynum? Oh yeah they’ll definitely want joe johnson so they can play him ahead of those 2 slacks in Kobe Bryant and Lamar Odom and they’ll just give us Bynum so they can play Gasol there and not have an established starter in the other big man spot. COME ON MAN. Now I don’t believe Bibby is right for the hawks. I wish the bobcats weren’t in the playoff race so we could trade Bibby for Felton. I think we need a quick PG who can distribute the ball. WE don’t need a scorer at the pg position. We have johnson, smith, and williams who can all score fine. But the cats could easily grab an 8 spot this year so it won’t happen. The negativity needs to stop thought because the hawks at the 4 spot is fine with me. Am i fully satisfied? no because we CAN be better but I’m not beating my head on the wall with where we are at.

By PD

January 30, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Trade scenario Speedy Claxton and Josh Childress’ contract for Marcus Camby for more interior defense.

By PD

January 30, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

Trade scenario Speedy Claxton and Josh Childress’ contract for Marcus Camby for more interior defense.

By ROLLINS TREE

January 30, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

1. Hawks are starting slow again - shocker!
2. There are a lot of empty seats at the game tonight. Keep losing and we will stay away again. Fans don’t care about last years celtics series anymore. Win this year!!
3. FIRE WOODSON!!!