Hawks

By Sekou - What the?

January 29, 2009 2:34 PM | Link to this

Could you possibly bring up coaching in any blog you write? Seriously! Once again you are afraid to address the most glaring weakness of this team. COACHING! We don’t call the right plays (out of the 2 or 3 we have). We don’t handle matchups correctly (ie. bibby getting torched in the fourth by Nate Robinson…we did not have the right personel in the game to stop Nate and even after we called a timeout we continued to not have the correct defensive stopper). We don’t execute on offense. We stand around for 20 seconds and chuck up a jumper. Call a timeout and then run the same play. THESE ISSUES ARE PROBLEMS WITH THE COACHING STAFF. Yes, we need to hit free throws. Mark Price! GREAT! He’s really helped us out so far. He’s running this team into the ground and all we can talk about is how bad we come out in the first Quarter? When will we have a blog entitled. “Coaching - Do we have the right man for the job”. Instead of continuing to blame the players like questioning “Is Joe An Allstar”??? He would be if he were put in the right situations. If our coach understood how to run an offensive set outside of Isolation. Thanks for another pointless blog blaming our team. Because our Coach should never take some of this blame…NO WAY!

By PD

January 29, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

That’s good stuff!

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

Good point Sekou. I think the 4th qtr numbers are a little misleading b/c too many times they are trying to make up points or reduce leads that they have giving up thru the 1st 3 qtrs. Like the stat showed, they need to play better in the opening qtr maybe that would allow them to rest the starters more in hopes they would be fresh to finish the game in the 4th… And maybe they should skip Woody’s halftime speech b/c their 3rd qtr play has been awful as well….. Hmmm, lets see. Their 2 worst qtrs of the game are the 1st & 3rd. I see a connection here…..heh,heh

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

Sekou, your eyes must be deceiving you b/c I know you didn’t see Josh working on his free throw shooting. Comeon, he’s a selfish, knucklehead fella that could careless about improving his game. I’m sure he prefer to shoot 20% from the free throw line again. No way he was putting in extra effort with the shooting coach to correct his shot. That’s not his M.O….. RIGHT…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 29, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this

If the first quarter is such a problem for the Hawks (and we all know it is), maybe a change in the starting lineup is the solution? Don’t know what that change is, necessarily — replacing Marvin with Mo Evans is the first thing that came to mind — but perhaps that could be the answer to the first quarter blues?

By Ramon

January 29, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

Could you possibly bring up coaching in any blog you write? Seriously! Once again you are afraid to address the most glaring weakness of this team. COACHING! Sekou-What the? aka Terrence Moore

Stay off our blog young man, lol.

By bigdave

January 29, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

from yesterday’s comments on Joe…

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” game is 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 Ramon

January 29, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

In the last four/five seasons, who has shown more improvement in their all around game then Josh in the city of Atlanta (in any sport)?

In the words of begging Keith Sweat, NOBODY!

By BA

January 29, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Funny how this loser that posts under all the bs names is back the next day, after promising he wouldn’t read anymore. Keep your word, junior- you’re a black eye on this board.

Or at least get some new lines.

By Chamblee Dawg

January 29, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this

I agree with “Sekou what the?”

When will Woodson’s faults be addressed and come under fire by Sekou? When we’re under .500?

By oldmike

January 29, 2009 3:33 PM | Link to this

I would love to embrace this team. I do live here. Love sports and basketball. Grew up with the Red Holzman Knicks, the Cousy Celtics. Great basketball. But oh my God this team is painful to watch 90% of the time. To the first blogger - AMEN. After 45 games why do they still come out flat each game? Where is the offense? Maybe they would be better served if the ball was in Bibby’s hands finding the open man and helping create shots for everyone. When this team plays it’s best Bibby is the creator. When the ball runs through Joe’s hands everything comes to a standstill. This coach may have some strengths but strategy, offense and motivation aren’t on the short list. It doesn’t matter if they have improved every year under him. I argue they would be farther along with a better coach. Look at the Knicks. A roster of miss-matched parts brought together by Isaah that floundered miserably and now is very competitive under D’Antoni. Would love to see him coaching here. But with the Spirit in court until the next milennium and their teams hemorraging money, getting a top tier coach is out of the question. Let’s hope they strike gold in the next draft with another inside monster. Until then, it’s just not worth the effort.

By ray

January 29, 2009 3:48 PM | Link to this

I agree with BA. I don’t know who this nimrod is that keeps coming after Sekou, but he just needs to quit.

Go write your own damn blog or something.

By ray

January 29, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

Chamblee Dawg,

Does it make much sense to bash somebody that you have to talk to and interview several times throughout the season? Maybe Sekou should start bashing the players as well, when they don’t perform well. Watch the interviews go right out the door, along with the beat writer’s job. Honestly, some of you people…..

By chill ray

January 29, 2009 4:02 PM | Link to this

He has as much right to his opinion as you. Nobody is suggesting you get kicked off for some of the venom you spew from time to time.Speak your mind Sekou-What the?.

By Chamblee Dawg

January 29, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

I guess you’re right ray. If we slip below .500 Sekou should just say to Coach:

“it’s ok big guy…don’t worry..you’re doing a great job…we love your playcalling and how well you’re doing with the team…way to go!!”

Sekou does talk about the players. He talks about their slumps and poor free throw shooting. He talks about their problems on defense. What has he ever said that’s negative about Woody though? Anything? I’m not saying he should cuss the guy out. I’m saying step up and ask a few tough questions. That’s all. If not than at least put something in this blog about Woodson’s efforts. The people on this blog are the one’s who complain about Woody. Sekou does not. Ever notice that?

By Sekou - What the?

January 29, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

It’s a blog dude… I’m sorry to inform you but some of the people on here… you might not agree with. It’s an opinion bro. You got yours. I got mine. I’m not telling you to get outta here am I? We’ll all on here to talk about the Hawks. Sekou is our only connection to the team as the beat writer. If I’m not happy (being a paid subscriber to the ajc) I belive that on this blog I’m more than welcome to express my concern.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 29, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind someone coming at me, provided it has some basis in reality.

And let’s be real here, Mike Woodson’s is knee-deep in this mess as well. That’s a given. If his team isn’t performing, ultimately it rests on him. He knows it just like we do.

But if you’re wanting me to call for someone’s head on a blog, you’ve clearly confused the purpose of this forum. I’m neither authorized no paid to offer up those sorts of opinions. That’s the domain of guys like Mark Bradley, Jeff Schultz and Terence Moore.

That said, I believe it’s obvious that whatever the Hawks have done in the past 12 games has not worked. Now we can study and debate the causes (or at least what we think are the causes for this current slide) or some of you can try and stir it up by taking shots at me or someone else and risk bogging us down in the petty foolishness

By jhan

January 29, 2009 4:22 PM | Link to this

Anyone with a moderate IQ can read between the lines that Sekou writes & realize he questions Woody’s coaching all the time.

Sekou just has a little tact about him. He also has a family to support - he’s probably decided writing articles completely bashing the people who indirectly pay him is not a good idea.

For those of you who can’t read between the lines (less than moderate IQ) I am calling you idiots.

By ant banks

January 29, 2009 4:23 PM | Link to this

hawks will drop from the 4th seed to the 7th seed by the all star break.

miami and detroit are one game behind them and they are ballin’ outta control. philly has won 8 of their last 10 games. wtf is wrong with the hawks.

the hawks don’t have that “dawg” in them to fight when things are on the line.

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 4:28 PM | Link to this

Ray, did you notice those 3 responses to you are exactly 5 mins apart from each other… Too funny…

By cheese

January 29, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

JOE JOHNSON TO THE KNICKS IN 2010?

interesting article below.

http://www.newsday.com/sports/basketball/knicks/ny-spkside296015812jan29,0,4193283.story

By Oldmike is the man

January 29, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

what a post dude! you hit it dead on.

iso joe = offense dead in the water d’antoni = should have been in atlanta

By Sekou - What the

January 29, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this

**”The morning after a dismal 17-for-32 showing at the free throw lines derails any chance the Hawks have at ending their latest losing streak there’s nowhere else they should have been.”

What the hell does this even mean?**

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 29, 2009 5:00 PM | Link to this

jhan said what I wanted to say a lot better than I was going to say it.

That Newsday article is quite comical. I’m no fan of New York sports in general. Like many of you I’m sure, I’m sick of hearing about all the cap space the Knicks will have in 2010 and how all the free agents are going to New York. The thought that the New York media has already given up on LeBron and Wade and is now thinking about second-tier stars like Joe Johnson brings a smile to my face. I’d be pretty happy if they ended up with nothing in 2010, just to see how the mainstream media talking heads like Stephen A. Smith handle it.

I’m not saying it’s completely impossible that Joe Johnson goes to the Knicks in 2010, but after leaving the Suns to spearhead a rebuilding project in Atlanta, I’d think if he leaves here it would be to be the missing piece for a title contender, not to be the centerpiece of another rebuilding project.

By Sekou - What the?

January 29, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

Would like to point out the gentleman above me stole my screen name. I understood the statement mentioned.

By mark

January 29, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

a lot of time stats don’t lie, for instance the final score,the hawks have been finding trhemselves on the wrong side of it lately. those 1st and third qtr stats’ say alot about the coaching.the hawks have a winning record in spite of mike w. not because of him. you never see and in game adjustments you never see them create mis matches, teams rarely double team any one player. jj is 6’8 most nights he has a height advantage on his opp. you never see him posting, he can shoot over most opp. he strong enough to over power most. he passes, as good as a lot of point guards, they have so much athleticism, you never see them use it on the defensive end. sometimes we you need a spark on defense, you think he would bring in west, if just get the team motivated. zaza take the 12- 15 ft jumper teams are letting you have that shot. seen you make it in the past.we are not getting another coach this season, i agree with the previous post, they are hard to watch sometimes with the slow start, leading at halftime and trailing before the 3rd qtr has ended.let mark price coach, i am trired of mike w.i was dissappointed when they gave him the 2yr extension. the hawks have to much talent to be so inconsissent, solo attack the the damn rim, stop letting guy’s a half foot shorter thah you block ur shot, i hope georgia hire anthony grant f rom vcu.

By newkid

January 29, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

Gotta agree with oldmike, it’s indeed sometimes painful to watch these cats. It’s also loads of fun to watch when most parts are properly clicking. Save the injection of a foreign substance, it is what it is with this group of players and coach.

Sekou, good to hear that Josh is putting in the time on the practice court. But again, with the mechanics of his stroke, he’s equally likely to be dead on or 3 feet off. His is not a stroke that leads to errors of millimeters, but rather meters (reference the play at the free throw line last night when Al Harrington went to his butt on a cross over by Josh). It is what it is. They only successful shooter I’ve seen with similar mechanics is Michael Redd; and it would be blasphemy to mention Smoove in the same shooting breath with Redd.

Enjoying these Hawks means accepting that you’re just as likely - on any given night - to see a well-oiled machine as you are to see a squad that the lady UConn Huskies might flog.

…still watching and cheering (sometimes).

By Mychelfromatl

January 29, 2009 6:26 PM | Link to this

Wow…I must admit I didn’t see this discussion coming today. Hmmm.

By Blast

January 29, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this

I have been hacking about Hawks problems at the line for two weeks now. Glad to see the topic getting some burn. Their problems at the line is caused by lack of concentration and rushing the shots. Watch the Hawks shoot free throws, Josh Smith and Flip especially, then watch other NBA players shoot free throws. Most players utilize almost all the time they have before shooting the ball. The Hawks step to the line, bounce the ball once or twice, then jack up a casual free throw, which is where concentration comes in.

They have to take their time, then be serious about the shot because it won’t automatically drop just because you shot it. You have to guide it in. They have to treat every free throw as if it was the potential game winner everytime. Every free throw. Just pretend this is to win the game, and those shots should drop in. Hawks need to step it up in all departments big time though. I’m sick of seeing teams like the Kicks rub their faces in dirt.

By dmortone

January 29, 2009 7:01 PM | Link to this

Something interesting on ESPN today. Atlanta’s Joe Johnson went 5-for-15 last night as his January swoon continues. The Hawks’ star hasn’t made half his shots in a game since Dec. 27 and is shooting 35.4 percent in January; the Hawks are just 5-9 in the month after starting the season 21-10.

Here’s the part I find really interesting: Johnson did the same thing last season. Check out his 2007-08 splits and you’ll see the same mid-year slump, with Johnson shooting 39.8 percent in January and 41.4 percent in February, and averaging under 20 points in both months before he recovered down the stretch.

I suspect he’s wearing out from all he’s asked to do for the Hawks, both offensively and defensively. What pulled him out of his malaise last season was the Mike Bibby trade, which took a lot of the offense-initiating responsibility away from him, but the tradeoff is that he’s being asked to chase guards more than ever so they can hide Bibby on D.

Whatever the cause, the most important question for the Hawks is whether he’ll snap out of it. Last season he did, and if the Hawks are going to snag a top-four seed, he’ll have to revert to playing like the November Joe Johnson sometime soon.

Since Joe’s playing Bibby’s defense, what’s Bibby’s excuse for his slump?

Another interesting article on ESPN about Big Men on the trading block.

Williams starts at the 3 for the Hawks but can also play the 4 in a small-ball lineup. He is the guy the Hawks infamously took instead of Chris Paul in 2005.

While Williams has been solid, he hasn’t been great. And the Hawks will have a tough decision to make with him hitting restricted free agency this summer. The team already is cash-strapped. Joe Johnson and Josh Smith have huge deals. Mike Bibby will also be a free agent. Ditto for Josh Childress. And sooner than later, they’re going to have to pay Al Horford.

All of that has led to some rumblings around the league that Williams is available in return for a lottery pick and a little cap relief. My source in Atlanta denies it, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

Chance of trade: 15 percent

By dmortone

January 29, 2009 7:26 PM | Link to this

I probably should have use italics to deferentiate between what I posted and what I got off ESPN but whatever. I think if Marvin gets traded, he’ll explode into a Danny Granger type player. He probably won’t here because he’ll always be the 4th or 5th option on offense. But that’s my fan opinion

By chill Melvin also....

January 29, 2009 7:56 PM | Link to this

“Too funny”…..

Really? You guys (talking to you as well Ray) think Sekou only writes for you. Please.To those who think we will quiet down due to established kinship here and wonder whether we are going to continue to speak out…”Yes we can”.

By terrell barron

January 29, 2009 7:58 PM | Link to this

Damn! I wanted JJ to stay home during All-Star Weekend and get some much needed rest. Not happening. Congratulations JJ. I guess?

By Melvin

January 29, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Joe Johnson for making it to his 3rd All-Star game….

By terrell barron

January 29, 2009 8:10 PM | Link to this

To those that were hating: Fratello and Marv just agreed with me about Mo Williams. Were you listening? lol!!

By terrell barron

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

Oh. And Reggie Miller also agreed. Mo Williams was snubbed.

By Murphy

January 29, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this

Congrats Joe

By Ken Strickland

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

Continuing to hold on to Woodson could eventually cost us most of our core players when they become FA’s. I seriously doubt that Acie, Solo, Zaza, Bibby or JJ will resign if he’s here. Bibby’s on the down side ow his career, and although he;s still effective, he doesn’t need to be subjected to the mins Woodson is forcing upon him. JJ is also showing the effects of playing too many mins, and we’re just approaching the Allstar break.

Acie, Solo and Morris are dying for more mins and a chance to prove themselves, and unless injuries force Woodson to use them grudingly, they basically get ignored. BK hired Woodson, but he had the guts to try and correct his mistake by attempting to fire him. Sund rehired him, and it’s about time to see if he has the guts to correct his mistake as well. Of course, that’s assuming the SAASG isn’t preventing Sund from doing his job like they did with BK.

I’m sick and tired of watching a talented Hawks team turn into an inconsistent team that can no longer motivate itself to compete against top teams like Orlando and Cleveland, or also rans like the Knicks, who earlier in the season we defeated with relative ease.

By The Truth

January 29, 2009 9:03 PM | Link to this

Congratulation Joe on another all-star trip; this just may be the ego booster you need to get your MOJO Back. I WISH BIBBY COULD GO WITH YOU. HE REALLY NEED SOME SWAGGER RELOAD :)

By Reggie

January 29, 2009 9:07 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.

Now I posted this on the other blog so the comments to other people is from sekou’s other blog.

By doc

January 29, 2009 9:27 PM | Link to this

congratulations to jj on his al star placement. good for him. it isnt his fault his coach isnt able to use him wisely and still use the pieces we have to get the wins. tired horse. he will also arrive back from the all star game energized.

guys offer no resistance to the idiots. i know you are protective and honorable to sekou. it is what it is, read it and when you are sure it is BS then put your scroll on. we got too many good guys sometimes with differing opinions, just the same they are expressing and idea worthy of a retort. some folks really dont deserve the energy to return the comments.

By ray

January 29, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to Joe Johnson for making his 3rd all-star team!

Kirkinga,

You called it right, it’s another losing streak, but I hope it doesn’t last much longer. I think that’s one of things you have to learn to be a truly good team: limiting the losing streaks. 3-5 losses is never GOOD, but not something that can’t be overcome. For a team like the Celtics, it’s not as big a deal. They re-focus, do a gut-check and a “systems check”, then they’re right back at it. A team like ours is still in the “good team” formative stages, at least in some areas. Losing streaks of 5 games are more damaging to team chemistry and what not. But we’ll see what happens.

Melvin,

Yeah, I noticed that. Whatever, ya know? Some people just have no clue. What gets me is they might actually think that their senseless and misdirected onslaughts will result in Sekou doing things the way they think he should do them. Perhaps if they had delved into the archives, they’d see where Sekou has written articles in which he has asked tough and direct questions of not only Woodson, but Billy Knight, Rick Sund, and others. But why do that when you can thump your nose at somebody, then try to use the slogan of an honorable man (“yes we can”) to back up your own inane, ridiculous babble…

By Lacsho

January 29, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

Reggie paragraphs are your friend..lol..

I think everyone on this blog knows we have a very good team, but Woody is out of his league.

Sekou ask him if he was going to shake things up, and he responded anything is possible. Then he stated, (paraphrasing) I don’t know how to get this team to play 4 quarters.

If you don’t know what to do, I don’t think you should be a head coach. Furthermore, I’d like to see Larry Drew become interim coach; I think Woody should be fired. I think he has lost this team.

If JJ slumps the same time every year, that means he playing to many damn minutes. The guy is warn out, and Bibby is at his best playing no more than 30 minutes per game…

Here we go again, we face Devin Harris and Vince Carter… Talking about Groundhog Day I might go to the game tomorrow night (It’s been a long time, I shouldn’t have left you (Rakim))

Peace Hawks Fam!!!!

By ray

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

Doc,

Of course, you are right. Sometimes watchdogs just have to bark a bit more to get it out of their system, ya know? Besides, what harm is there in biting idiots? I thought that’s what idiots were for, after all….heh heh heh.

By Reggie

January 29, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

LACSHO= I know man I realized that after I posted it. I didn’t realize it quited got that long. I guess I went a little to far (lol). Also if there happened to be a firing I definitely agree we would have to go with Drew. I saw people saying to hire the Mavs old coach, can’t think of his name but that wouldn’t work in the middle of the season obviously. haha

By darrell starks

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

Well deserve joe but we as fans wants NBA CHAMPIONSHIP and this city is starvin for one thats why YOU SEE THE OUTPOUR for this team just imagine 1championship between THE HAWKS THE BRAVES AND THE FALCONS 40YEARS OF SPORTS IS HORRIBLE FOR THIS city thats WHY YOU SEE half support of the fans because there has never been a dynasty IN THIS CITY yes we now the braves won 14division TITTLE BUT how many championship only 1 that to me is sorry who remember 2place I DONT THIS CITY IS TO EASY TO SETTLE FOR LESS FROM FANS TO SPORT WRITER AND THATS THE TRUTH. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ray

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

I think if there is to be a coaching change at all, going with one of the assistants (Larry Drew, as Lacsho suggests) is the way to go. Bringing in an entirely new guy isn’t going to do it.

By beau gust

January 29, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

Since the last couple games have been too ugly to even think about, here’s a differnt topic.

Soon Belkin and the ASG will be back in court. With the article in today’s AJC about how many $millions the Hawks and Thrashers have lost since 02-03, I expect that the ASG will offer the whole shebang to Belkin for $10, with $5 coupon for Hawks merchandise thrown in.

No way would Belkin take them, of course. Who’s got $174 million dollars and no improvement in sight to waste?

Hey, wait! Is David McDavid still interested? Wasn’t he just awarded even more than this for being saved from buying the Hawks/Thrashers?

By BA

January 29, 2009 10:51 PM | Link to this

Excellent post at 9:07 p.m., Reggie.

By Reggie

January 29, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks BA I had to ramble a bit (haha)

By Lacsho

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

Ray

Whatz good money? I think we could really use Childress now. He’s a very unselfish dude that can do multiple duties on the floor. He’s the one guy who could definitely give JJ a breather.

Call me a hater, but who really plays team ball. The only unselfish player I see in the starting line-up is Marvin and the center. Keep in mind Marvin had a huge game the other night, but it was overshadowed by the disastrous lost.

Smoove (to bad he’s not Smash) dribbles to much on the break. He’s been playing good ball lately,but he needs to give the ball up on the break. However, if he gives the ball up, will he get it back at the end of the break. With Smooves ups, the only thing you have to do is throw the ball to the rim on a fastbreak. Yet I must say, he’s been posting up more lately, and I don’t mind him missing shots in the post. I still cringe when he hits a jumper lol

JJ cannot continue to guard the other teams pg. There’s know way around this one. Bibby is killing us on defense. I haven’t seen him shut one guy down the entire season. So Bibby hits 20, while the other teams guards go for 30. Not only do the other teams guards put up huge numbers, but they’re able to penetrate inside the lane. By doing this they create easy shots for their entire team.

On our side Bibby is a one man show, while the other teams beat us by playing team ball on both ends. It’s a well known fact that if you involve everybody on the offense end, everyones going to play harder on the defensive end of the floor. However, when you have Bibby and the crew going Solo know one wants to play team defense. Perhaps the teams logic is, “if Bibby can continue to put up meaningless jumps shots, he can get his azz back and play some damn defense.”

Doc I hear you from the other blog. I still have my head intact. I was fortunate they didn’t bite it off lol….

Wassup Banks, are you going to the game tomorrow night?

By RLP

January 29, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

With the team’s losing streak I have just been lurking without making any contribution to the blog during this down time. It actually hurts too much to write how bad it feels. I think this last game was the worst with our primary offensive weapons going for some ridiculous shooting percentages. And JS missing 9 of ten from the free throw line did not help. But at least JS appeared to be angry that things were going badly. Good for him!!! I think he is a key to the teams future. Our team is in a slump and then playing the Nets who seem to own us this year does not contribute to our well being. At this point in time we have a team with one all-star - JJ who is in a terrible slump. Give him credit for this honor. We are missing what may be the heart of our team based on the results since he has been out. We have an ownership that appears too poor to be able to fire their coach even if they wanted to do so and a fan base that is ready to mutiny. I don’t have any solutions. Hurry up JJ and Bibby - get back in the groove. JS and Marvin are coming on strong. Get well Al. Maybe in some way this mid season swoon will prove to be a blessing in disguise. Or maybe I am just a foolish optimist. But I cannot wait to see the team that moved the ball earlier in the season.. The team that you knew would make a strong push in the fourth quarter and seemed to be on the way to making a big jump. All of that has faded. Let’s see if they can get it back!!!! All they need is 16 wins against 21 losses and they will be above .500 of the year. How many of us would have been happy with that achievement before the season began? After the great start and the wonderful December please do not forget just because of a horrible January. February may be a struggle but thank goodness we have a seven game home stand in March. Go Hawks.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 12:05 AM | Link to this

LACSHO= I do agree that Marvin does play the best team ball. I mentioned before that I think that if he wanted to he could average 20 a game but he only takes smart shots usually and is starting to penetrate well.

By Lacsho

January 30, 2009 12:46 AM | Link to this

Reg you’re right, Marvin could easily average 20 pts if the team played unselfish. When we had a 9-10 man rotation, we were playing our best ball.

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 1:40 AM | Link to this

So could there be a New York reunion between the two (Joe Johnson and Mike D’Antoni)?

JOE JOHNSON RESPONDS:

“I don’t know,” said Johnson, who is earning $14.2 million this season and has one more year left at $14.9 million on his five-year, $70-million contract. “I can’t really answer that because like I said, I don’t know what’s going to happen. He was a great coach and I enjoyed the time that we were together.”

LIKE I TOLD YOU GUYS BEFORE: JOE JOHNSON WILL LEAVE THE HAWKS AS SOON AS HE GETS THE CHANCE, FOR WOODY CAN’T COACH, AND HE’S KILLING JOE WITH MINUTES PLAYED.

By Willie Coyote

January 30, 2009 5:42 AM | Link to this

I keep seeing statements to the nature of the free-throw shortcomings are not the only reason the Hawks lose, etc. The thing is that, while some games defensive rotation is missing, others it’s bad outside shooting, others it’s rebounding, others it’s fatigue…the one common thing that’s always coupled with one or more of the above reasons is free-throw shooting. So, on any given night it’s not the only reason they lose but on most nights they lose, it is one of the reasons.

The bottom line is that they just lost by 8 while missing 15 free-throws. Even though they played horrible in the second half, the game and scoring scenarios change dramatically between missing 15 free-throws and missing only 10 or 7 or however many.

By ray

January 30, 2009 7:15 AM | Link to this

Reggie,

Echoing BA, good post. The team is doing better, and Woody has to get some credit for that. Credit, of course, is a two way street….

Lachso,

Wish I could be there with you and Banks. It should be a good one. We owe Jersey a beating. I don’t care, as long as we win.

E.G.,

You’re just full of good news and positivity, aren’t you? Lol…

By terrell barron

January 30, 2009 8:59 AM | Link to this

Sekou, is Horford playing tonight?

By terrell barron

January 30, 2009 9:12 AM | Link to this

Reggie, fyi, Larry Drew has always thought that Marvin would be more effective at the 2 guard spot. But I guess you know more than him. Idiot. And LA could play Kobe at the 2, JJ at the 3, Odom at the 4, and Gasol at the 5. Looks pretty damn good to me. And it was just a thought my man. I know it’ll never happen. Just a thought. Who are you to question what I know about basketball.? Scrub! And btw, LA has been wanting to move Odom for years now. Where’ve you been? And they almost traded Bynum for Jason Kidd. So who are you to say that they wont move Bynum. Your’re the funny one, not me.

By terrell barron

January 30, 2009 9:14 AM | Link to this

And I’d take Patrick Mills(2 mill) over Baffling Bibby(15 mill) anyday. He’s a PENETRATING PG, that can also score. Fool!

By Ramon

January 30, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

Terrell, thats a two sided question. If Woody is still in this gauntlet match called ‘woody’s playbook’ then Mills won’t be able to penetrate much. Law’s shoe and towel would get in the way, as Law sits and tell him how he got the popcorn out of his ride without messing up the rims, lol.

By Mark

January 30, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

Man! I hate the fact that Joe made the allstar team. He needs as much rest as possible. Maybe we should start FLIP because and put Marvin on the bench. Nothing against Marvin, but we need to get off to better starts and stop fighting these uphill battles. Flip RIGHT NOW is are most explosive player. What I mean by that is he is able to draw contact and get to the line. He unlike Joe, is able to go to the hole and dunk. All Joe wants to do is shoot those runners and floaters in the lane. Most scorers are able to get to the freethrow line, whereas Joe doesn’t and part of that is he tends to throw up those weak shots when he drives in the lane. He maybe an ALLSTAR, but he definitely is not a SUPERSTAR. Joe can’t take over a game, even when we run that stupid ISO play every game. Joe needs some help and Josh isn’t GOOD ENOUGH. He can’t dribble, average at best when it comes to shooting, no post game, and sucks at freethrows.

Bibby is ok, but streaky.

Joe maybe the CAPTAIN, and Bibby the FLOOR GENERAL, but the HEART of this team is AL HORFORD. He is the toughest player and he gets rebounds with AUTHORITY. We need HORFORD, because SOLO AND ZAZA can’t cut. We gave up 60+ points in the paint the other night.

We are very thin and need to make a move, but we have nothing on our roster that anybody would want. WE ARE DOOMED!!!

By terrell barron

January 30, 2009 10:16 AM | Link to this

Ramon, You know good and damn well I know Woody dont like young pg’s. I did’nt mention ole Woodrow’s name one time. You know why? Because I dont expect him to be around come draft time. If he is, you can diregard everything I just said.

By terrell barron

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

Your’re right about that Mark. When was the last time JJ, who’s 6’8 btw, drove to the basket and flushed one with authority? Has he ever?

By Ramon

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

Terrell, sorry I just needed to laugh this morning. Now I’m feeling much better, lol. I think Woody has that child mentality that thinks a baby just appears with out a process. I think Woody thinks a PG just shows up in his 4-5th year at least, and he’s ready to play. Woody wants to draft a PG who was coached by Knight or Woodard, otherwise he won’t get any playing time. If the Hawks would’ve drafted Paul or Williams, they would’ve been traded by now.

By ray

January 30, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

Heh Heh….ohhhh boy…

By terrell barron

January 30, 2009 10:33 AM | Link to this

E.G., JJ is here until 2010. Woodrow’s probably gone at the end of the year. Unless we have a winning record and make it out of the 1st rd. Thats a huge upgrade if you ask Sund and the ASG. If it were up to me, I’d say it’s Eastern Conf semi’s or bust. lol!!

By Ramon

January 30, 2009 10:36 AM | Link to this

Mark, JJ may not go and dunk on every one, but remember Steve Smith in his Hawks days didn’t do that either. There are a list of players who are over 6’6 who doesn’t play ‘above the rim’ and still have good careers. In my mind, JJ is just as good as Reggie Miller when it comes to all around game. And only one or two times do I remember Miller dunking like that (JJ plays better defense and has better court vision as a playmaker for others). Truthfully, the only thing wrong with JJ is he plays for the wrong coach. And to be honest, if I was a free agent, I wouldn’t sign with a team that was coached by Woody. Smoove stayed because he loves playing for his team. But you look at this roster, JJ was the ONLY player who came to this team by choice. And you have to know he came more because of BK than Woody. BK had the vision of this team running all game long. That is why he wanted so many versatile swing man, b/c in transition, the best defense is having a team where 2-4 can at least guard all the opposing 2-4’s.

By Mike is back

January 30, 2009 10:52 AM | Link to this

Congratulation Joe, during the All Star break look at some film like Josh did and ask yourself is this the JJ for which the coaches are voting for. Clearly, you are exhausted and worn down. Go have some fun in Phoenix and forget about the past struggles and come back with that swagger that made everybody started mentioning your name.   

Either you are going to have to change your approach or Woody is going to have to give up on those dreadful ISOs play that stifle the life out the team, especially in the first quarter. It’s Woody’s propensity to want to get you off early in the game that opposing coach prey on. They are keying their defense off where you receive the ball on the floor.  

They know if they make it difficult for you and Bibby to score, the whole team will struggle.  Case in point…NY didn’t have a single legit shot blocker on their team…yet the Hawks hoisted up shot all game…the Hawks never attack the rack…nor Woody did keep someone in the on the floor who could…WTF!!!  

Joe, so go look at some film, you know that Woody will run all his plays through you, think about what you can do different in those situations to keep guys involved in the plays, because obvious Woodson do not get it.  

 Doc, I figured I would say something encouraging to Joe, rather then slamming Woody for his recent asinine comments. HE IS ALWAYS TRYING TO FIGURE SOMETHING OUT.  Daaaaaaaaaaam, after four years with that draconian offense, you would think he would have figured it out by now.  

But what do I know, I’m just a lowly blogger with a bunch of DNPs. Heh heh heh  

GO JOE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ILL-logical

January 30, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

” Earlier in the season we were out there freelancing and playing well,and didn’t care who scored or who was doing what. Now all of a sudden everybody thinks that they can do it alone.And we’re just not going to win like that”

Quotes from your All-Star and team captain in today’s dead tree AJC.

???!!!!!

By jhan

January 30, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

Once again Woody talks of things he must do/change in order for the team to succeed.

Will he ever make any of these changes? If he doesn’t, will the ASG hold him accountable?

Woody - “Yeah, I can change the lineup or whatever, but who says that changing the lineup is going to make that big of a difference? You just don’t know.”

He’ll never know until he tries something different!

By Rod from College Park

January 30, 2009 11:39 AM | Link to this

Please can someone explain to me why I keep seeing people talking about how good Marvin Williams is. Marvin Williams has one decent game a month. He is goofy, can’t finish, has not been that great this year at the free throw line, rarely hits open shots, and has no confidence. Someone earlier said they think if we trade him he will end up being a Danny Granger type player. Halarious. This guy will never be able to hold Danny Granger’s bags. His game is not fluent enough. Marvin Williams is by far the waekest link of all of our starters and should be traded ASAP. I will admit that I think he would be decent in an offense where he can come off of screens and shoot jumpers, like RIP Hamilton, or Reggie Miller, but we all know that our Great coach Woody will not change his offense for anything. Trade him now. He is officially a BUST. If I see him Dap up the whole team agian after missing a free throw I might choke.

By esmith

January 30, 2009 12:05 PM | Link to this

There is something called a ten day contract.If not now when.

By Clyde

January 30, 2009 1:18 PM | Link to this

Fire Woody

By Wink from Lithonia

January 30, 2009 1:22 PM | Link to this

So Sekou,

Did you just say games can be won in the First Quarter, because we all have been told that you don’t lose a game in the First Quarter, apparently you can because stats don’t lie.

Also, if you you aspire to be an elite team, you may want to win the First Quarter, because the good teams Cleveland, Boston, Orlando, Houston, the Lakers, San Antonio, Detroit, Philadelphia, Toronto and New Orleans, establish their will & create an environment for seccess.

On the other hand, we lead the league in win percentage in the 4th quarter, because we are playing from behind and scraping to get back in the game, usually coming up short but winning the quarter. All the while the other team, is protecting there lead running the clock or the starters are resting on the bench.

I have seen this formula recently, with our Atlanta Falcons, start fast, get early lead, protect the lead, run clock in 4th quarter. They led the league in scoring in the first quarter and probably not that good at scoring in 4th quarter.

We play up or down to competition…we’re an average team no more, not elite and not really bad, but either can beat us on any given game.

By Dan

January 30, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

The reason we are losing these games is becasue Horford is out? Oh yea I like Marvin I like his accurate shooting and team play? If ESPN is right the only way I would trade him would be assured we got Hasheem Thabeet to play center and to move Horford to Power Forward and Smith to Small Forward. I also want to know if the Hawks are interested in Marcus Camby?

By 404atlhoops

January 30, 2009 1:35 PM | Link to this

Rod

How can you say Marvin Williams is bust? The guy puts up 13pts a game as the fourth option on a team that runs zero plays for him. Yes, he’s not athletic and can’t finish but at least he goes to the basket. Williams averages the same amount of free throw attempts per game as Joe Johnson yet he averages nine fewer shots per games. (reference: NBA.com) You put him on a team where is one of the focal points of the offense and Williams is putting 18-19 points a night.

All you have to do is look at Devin Harris. He was a top 5 pick and put up decent numbers in Dallas. Harris is an All-Star now in New Jersey because the offense is built around him. In Dallas, he was the fourth option. It’s all about getting the opportunity and being in the right system. Sheldon Williams and Darko are busts. Marvin Williams is not.

By Mac-Town

January 30, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

Wink from Lithonia, did you just mention toronto and philadelphia AS GOOD TEAMS???????

By Blast

January 30, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Folks keep saying JJ should not play in the All Star game because he needs his rest. I believe this is a ton of bulls.hit. Why did I say that? First, the All Star game is a long weekend affair. Secondly, Joe will play in the game, but I don’t see him getting more than 20 minutes game time total. This is not the Hawks team where he logs 40 minutes. Also, I do not think there will be any practice time for the teams before the game. Then we all know there is no defence played in the games anyway, so JJ will not be required to guard the opposing teams, point guard, so he’s not gonna get burnt out playing 20 minnutes in an All Star game guarding a fast point. So all I’m saying is him going to the game will not wear him out any further than Woody already has. Hopefully being out there with the best in the league will revitalize the old Joe Johnson as we knew him to be. as they said, the Hawks can only go as far as Joe carries them.

That said, I love the Hawks and all, but I see them losing to NJ tonight. I pray they prove me wrong and win the game which might jumpstart them to playing better again, but I am not holding my breath, I am steeling myself for a loss now, so I won’t be too disappointed when it does happen.

Go Hawks, prove me wrong tonight.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

TERELL BARRON I have no idea what you are talking about. You say the Lakers want to move Bynum? When they did it had to be back a while. Bynum is probably now their 2nd guy they would relly want to keep. They wouldn’t have enough cap for JJ anyways. I also wouldn’t have a problem with Mills but there is no way we start him the first year. Marvin playing the 2 position would be insane really. He has started to strongly go inside and has shown a solid post game. Also he isn’t quite athletic enough at 6 foot 9 to guard other SG in the NBA. Don’t get too upset i just thought your comment was a little uneducated. Also for the marvin haters. Since he came back he has gone 24-47 fg and 6-15 3pt plus putting up 18.5 ppg and 7.5 rpg. He is our 4th scoring optiion and puts that up. There would be no reason to trade him because i see awesome potential for him. If bibby is gone next year he could average 20 ppg.

By jhan

January 30, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

Marvin has been playing fine since he returned. His numbers may ultimately be similar to Graingers but their on court games never will be. Marvin is just too clumsy & uncoordinated with the basketball in his hands. Danny is very smooth & fluent with the ball.

I haven’t seen Marvin’s improved post up game yet. I don’t consider a running hook across the lane a post-up game. He hasn’t learned how to put someone on his back side & make a good move yet. Not to say he won’t - he just hasn’t.

By Astro Joe

January 30, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

404atlhoops, excellent post on Marvin.

Heck, I hope the Hawks win tonight just to change the tone of this blog. There wasn’t this much venom here when we were winning less than 30 games for the whole freakin’ year!

By MsDee

January 30, 2009 4:20 PM | Link to this

Well, I really dont care how Marvin or anyone on this team scores the ball, just as long as u score the ball!! I dont uuderstand why its a big deal that Joe drives the lane for a floater than a slam dunk?? Or if Marvin scores with that running hook or a post-up?? WHO CARES!! Points are points. If Josh would dunk 90% of the times instead of those crazy jump shots, than he should do it and stop worrying about being a one dimentional player. Again, points are points. Look at what Chills did with us, he slashed and put back garage points and some people on here had issues with that, but as u can see, we are missing those points BIG TIME!! So let’s stop complaining about how we get our points and just gets some points to stay ahead of the 4th and under pack!!

By Ramon

January 30, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this

MsDee, I think Josh is trying to develop more an all around game below the rim to secure a longer career. Out of all the great leapers that have played, not many have lasted long in the league on just jumping abilities. From Kemp, McDyess, and many more, can testify when you go year after year only relying on jumping, you’re only one landing away from having a finished career. I bet when Smoove is in the gym practicing, many of his jumpers go down. The reason why he takes them in the game is to get game rhythm. Many people know that doing something practicing still doesn’t translate all the way until you’re able to consistently do it on the court during the game. For the 2-3 bad shots Smoove may take (and they’re really not that many this season), he is responsible for over 10 stops a game, just by his presence. Besides with 3-4 seconds on the shot clock, its not many ways he can drive and get a shot off.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 5:20 PM | Link to this

The reason Joe doesn’t attack the basket is from an injury he had with Phoenix when going up for a slam. It was pretty bad. He hasn’t had the aggressiveness since. I would like to see him be a little more aggressive but I don’t think he HAS to have it. Now to say Joe can’t dominate a game or take over is ridiculous. Did you not watch the playoffs last year? I’m not sure what game it was but where he made something like 7 in a row on each possession. He has taken over plenty of games. Denver, and Chicago are 2 that pop off my head right now this year. His shot is off right now but when he is driving and has his jumper on a little he is already an all-star. By no means am I going to be mad that Joe made the all star team. That’s stupid, congrats on your accomplishment and hopefully he comes out of Pheonix rejuvenated knowing he one of the elite and gets hot.

By rms

January 30, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this

this kats come from outta nowhere and got a ton to say.

By O'brien

January 30, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

Let’s hope the Pistons lose 2 games this weekend. The Pistons play the Celtics tonight, and then the Cavaliers on Sunday. That could be 2 losses for the Pistons, and then Miami plays at Indy tonight, and then they play Dallas tomorrow.

What I will be watching tonight is how does Bibby and JJ respond to Devin Harris and Vince Carter.

Also, if Bibby struggles, what does Woody do (WDWD)…

By Melvin

January 30, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this

Bibby off to another badd start for Bibby. 6 mins 0-3 (0-2 3pts), 2fouls, 2steals, 2 turnovers, 0assist…

By Melvin

January 30, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

Why are we playing Josh at the center spot this early in the game. If this game remain close, Im willing to bet he’s going to be gasping for air in the 4th…

By rms

January 30, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

WOW, AC Law in the game for an entire 7.4 seconds. I hate our rotations! 0-4 against the Nets!

By Lacsho

January 30, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

Acie is the only person who can guard Harris

By cp

January 30, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

Great game so far… Our free throw shooting still sucks.. Pachulia’s defense tonight has been atrocious. Hopefully they don’t come out sluggish in the 3rd quarter.

By O'brien

January 30, 2009 8:53 PM | Link to this

I hope Woody does not give a half time speech, because it doesn’t work. However, I’m glad he gave the bench some PT, and they responded (Flip’s on fire). Hopefully they will keep it going in the second half.

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

If Carter hasn’t taken many shots up to this point, you know he is waiting until the fourth quarter to slam us.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this

E.G I love how positive you are! haha Bibby is getting his shot back a bit and JJ has been solid. Actually our offense has been solid. This game has proven so far though that we have to pick up a 7 foot big man.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

You think Woody has been reading these blogs because big Acie is getting him some PT tonight!

By E. G.

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

Hey Reggie

If the Hawks win, I will be glad due to the fact that I will know that they can beat New Jersey, even without Horford or anyone else missing from the lineup.

I just don’t want you to get your hopes up because the Hawks have been stinking it up lately because of WOODY’S LACK OF INTELLIGENCE.

By Dee

January 30, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have been solid tonight we just need to finish it off. Josh Smith has been quiet but he’s done some good things - although he still scares me when he’s handling the ball on the break. He needs to assert himself a little more by driving to the basket.

Flip has been the X-Factor tonight though. He got the offense going when nothing was happening and he kept us in it until Joe and Bibby turned it up.

By rms

January 30, 2009 9:31 PM | Link to this

where in the world did you come from all of a sudden?

By Melvin

January 30, 2009 9:39 PM | Link to this

Lawerence Frank is about to take Mike Woodson to school. He’s allowing Devin Harris to rest to start the 4th qtr while the offense runs thur Vince. So who’s guarding Vince while Harris is on the bench, Joe. When Harris comes back in the game and take the offense over, who’s going to guard him, Joe… Joe our defensive specialist and our #1 offensive option… Yeap, he’s our do all robot…

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

RMS: I’ve posted various times with different names but have decided to be a full timer now. EG: I know man and of course you’ll be glad if we win (i hope) haha

Man joe is hot!

By Dee

January 30, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

I’ve been around, just been too lazy to post but I’m thinking about being a regular around here. I need somewhere to talk about the Hawks.

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

RMS you were talking about me or Dee?

By Dee

January 30, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

Joe is just unguardable at the moment..

The team is finally playing with energy and our shots are falling. I still think Flip is the MVP of this game, he really saved us after yet another slow start.

By Melvin

January 30, 2009 9:50 PM | Link to this

Dang it’s good to see Bibby and Joe get their swagger back. This is a totally different team when those guys have it going… Now let’s finish this game strong….. Miami and Detroit lost tonite. We have a chance to go up a game on those guys..

By Dee

January 30, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

Haha, yeah I was wonderin who he was talking about after I posted that.

Time to get Acie and Mario some playing time!

By rms

January 30, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Reggie: Never mind me. I was just jealous since my name is Reggie too!! :)

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 9:57 PM | Link to this

and joe sticks on 9,999

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 9:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Melvin

Joe and Bibby probably got their swagger back because WOODY let them rest yesterday.

The last game we lost, Woody had the team practicing the very next day “in Miami” before leaving to go to New York, which was definitely ridiculous.

By Farack Ubama

January 30, 2009 10:01 PM | Link to this

Nice win, Hawks - that should quiet the haters for a minute …

By Melvin

January 30, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

Much needed win tonite. Let’s take care of the Bucks tomorrow nite…

By Reggie

January 30, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

nice comfortable win there. My heat rate didn’t have to go up.

By Dee

January 30, 2009 10:06 PM | Link to this

This is a good win for the Hawks. We seem revived and Bibby/Joe really improved their shooting in this game plus the offense looked better then it has lately.

By Farack Ubama

January 30, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

E.G. - should we fire Woody tonight? Stop the hatin’ …

By Justin

January 30, 2009 10:15 PM | Link to this

Good win, nice to get that monkey off our back with the Nets, especially after blowing that huge lead last time and no Horford tonite.

By Lacsho

January 30, 2009 10:16 PM | Link to this

Bibby comes out of his slump.

Acie plays great defense against Harris, and he threw some nice dimes.

Flip is trying to move into the starting line-up.

JJ got his step back, once Acie starting guarding Harris. JJ plays better when he’s guarding the two or the three.

WTF Woody utilizes his bench, and extends the rotation.

Nice win!!!!!!

JJ energy was great; I guess he gets busy when he doesn’t have to guard the other teams pg, during the entire game.

Marvin is not a bust

Peace Family

By Al Horford

January 30, 2009 10:20 PM | Link to this

I’m gonna miss hangin with Speedy and Acie next week. And it was good to meet RandMo, Thello and Garner- they’re some cool cats. I didn’t know they actually play for this team! I thought they were trainers.

By Justin

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

I saw Stephen Curry play in person a few nights ago. He’s gonna make some GM’s that pass on him look like Billy Knight in a few years. Wouldn’t mind seeing him in a Hawks jersey, but then again we probably would either never draft him or never play him…

By Dee

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

Justin, Marvin can’t be labled a bust yet because he’s far to young for that. However, he’s got so much talent and athletic ability and he’s simply wasting it.

He’s 6’9 and can jump out of the building and he would rather take the 18-22 foot jumper than dunk on someone. I’m sorry but he’s wasting his talents. He has a nice stroke but it’s inconsistent - I’d love to see him fake a jumper, go in for the drive, then penetrate and dish, THEN take the jumper. It’s all about keeping the defender on his toes, guessing what your going to do next. He just needs to do a better job understanding how to use his skills on offense because right now.. he just isn’t playing up to his ability.

I’ve seen a ton of improvement in his game year after year but he still has a long way to go before he lives up to his potential.

By doc

January 30, 2009 10:29 PM | Link to this

good for our guys. just saw the score only. every win right now is huge, even more so without big al.

By rms

January 30, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

Is Bibby going to the All-Star 3-point contest? One win doesnt mean your backcourt is out of a slump. And yes….I still hate Woody! Marvin is a BUST!!

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this

HEY FARACH UBAMA

We should still fire Woody because he only changes his ways once he has put us in a hole so deep that it forces him to try something different, TEMPORARILY, to keep from being fired before this season is over.

One game will not cause me to jump on the WOODY bandwagon because Woody can’t change who he is:

CAN THE ETHIOPIAN CHANGE HIS SKIN, OR THE LEOPARD HIS SPOTS? THEN MAY WOODY DO GOOD, WHO IS ACCUSTOMED TO DO EVIL TO MY HAWKS (JEREMIAH 13:23)(LOL).

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

HEY EVERYONE

WE STILL HAVE TO LOVE WOODY RATHER THAN HATE HIM, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE CAN LOVE HIM ON HIS WAY OUT OF HAWKSTOWN.

FIRE WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOODY!!!! (LOL)

By richbrave

January 30, 2009 10:47 PM | Link to this

doc:

CRITTER report. Damm! Call this a coming out party. +10, highest on the squad. 20:12 minutes off the bench. 7-10 shooting from the floor. 0-0 three’s. 1-3 FT. Leaves MUCH to be desired at the line. 4 rebounds, 2 offensive. SEVEN-that’s 7 assists.!!!! the kid was on fire with the dribble penetration and kicks or passes. 2 fouls, 1 turnover. 2 steals and 2 BA’s( I assume that’s block attempts ). No outside shots unless I missed one. At least two finishes at the rim. Great twisting penetration drives. Two dink shots. One dunk on a rebound, and the rest hanging shots from the hip, etc. Serious move tonight. Why? 76’s lost their intimidator DAMELBERT in the middle which opened things up. DAM. had a nasty looking turned ankle. probably stepped on somebody’s foot. J-CRIT still loses his man on d most of the time and looks out of sinc in the offense, but improving. If he can get some serious burn with DeBRICK having returned, I think the young man has what it takes to succeed in the NBA. Off this game anyway.

BTW, think the HAWKS have problems with the WOODEN-one’s coaching? TAP runs STEVENSON for 23 plus on his first night back from a slipped disc and of course, he goes -10. YOUNG sits, gets in off the bench for 10+ minutes and has a +7. Right, play the -10 guy and sit the +7 guy. Whew.!!!! WIZ lose by ten of course. Where’s EDDIE JORDAN when you need him.?

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

**HEY EVERYONE

WE STILL HAVE TO LOVE WOODY RATHER THAN HATE HIM, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN WE CAN’T LOVE HIM ON HIS WAY “OUT” OF HAWKSTOWN.

FIRE WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOODY!!!! (LOL)**

By Farack Ubama

January 30, 2009 11:00 PM | Link to this

C’mon E.G. - can’t you just appreciate the win? Did Woody slap your sister or something?

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

*HEY WOODY!!

Below is my prayer to God concerning you if you are reading this blog:

O LORD, you are searching for honesty. You struck Woody, but Woody paid no attention. You crushed Woody (through the games we lost that we should have won), but Woody refused to turn from sin (his stubborness). Woody is determined, with faces set like stone; Woody has refused to repent (change his mind).

MAY GOD HAVE MERCY ON WOODY BEFORE SO HE WON’T GET FIRED.

By Tiger Woo

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

Nice win Hawks - good to see Bibby and Joe find their shooting touch …

27-19 !! I like how that sounds!!

E.G. - why are you wasting your time with all the fire Woody nonsense? The Hawks are 27-19 - # 4 in the East. I’ve got bad news for you - Woody ain’t going anywhere!!

By kirkinga

January 30, 2009 11:15 PM | Link to this

ray, you called it, limiting the severity of losing streaks is indeed a sign of a good team.

I’m very impressed by the win tonight. The Nets have presented matchup difficulties for the Hawks in the previous 3 meetings, yet they manage an impressive win without Horford.

This was a gut-check game and the Hawks did what good teams do, they imposed their will upon the Nets and the Nets couldn’t answer.The Hawks wanted this game and they darn well took it!

Acie played 13 minutes, Solo 18. I think Solo once again did the most with his limited minutes.

Detroit and Miami both lost and so we pickup a game on both.

27-19 and 4th place…still.. is what’s really happening right now everything else is just noise.

Go Hawks!!

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

Tiger Woo old buddy!**

I’m not wasting my time, nor I’m I frustrated. Being on this blog is fun. Aren’t you having fun, Tiger Woo? (lol)

By Tiger Woo

January 30, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

I second that, kirkinga …

I can’t believe the negativity on here - even after a nice win, they’re hatin’ on Woody and it appears that Marvin is the subject of their wrath now - even though he is playing well - go figure.

Man, the Hawks are 27-19 !! There are a bunch of teams that would love to have that record right now. I’m really enjoying this season so far !!

By Tiger Woo

January 30, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

E.G.

What’s up, dude? I’ll give you credit - if nothing else, you are consistent with your message.

Like I said, I’m really enjoying this season so far!! Being on this blog IS fun - especially after a Hawks win!! I’m happy for the players and coaches - winning cures all !!

By E. G.

January 30, 2009 11:45 PM | Link to this

Hey Tiger Woo

Get used to the negativity on here, for as long as Woody wins “one” game and then loses “two” or win “three” games in a row and then turn around and lose “four” the negative aspects of his coaching will NEVER CEASE TO BE ADDRESSED BY SOME OF US.

By doc

January 30, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

kirk, agree, good win, gut check and very important to keep losing streaks at three or four. i know we both are expecting tremors of some kind the next month though you might be a little more on the optimistic side though that isnt necessarily the word you would use.

not sure but it seems if acie is to get minutes it will be at the expense of mo with jj moving to three, flip to two and acie at point. didnt see how the rotations actually were since i didnt see the game but that might be the most reasonable way he gets on the floor.

By Tiger Woo

January 30, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this

Oh, and one more thing …

Great coaching job tonight, Woody! Fantastic!! Awesome with a capital A!! John Wooden and Red Auerbach would be proud!!

By Tiger Woo

January 31, 2009 12:01 AM | Link to this

E.G.

Repeat after me:

27-19 - # 4 in the East. OK - one more time, 27-19 - # 4 in the East.

Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Go Hawks !!

By Da Real Real

January 31, 2009 12:02 AM | Link to this

Really good to see the guys bounce back and win against a team that has had your number this year and against a guy that’s always had our number since he entered the league. Flip has been our MVP this month and we can only hope that he can continue to produce for us off the bench. I tell you what though…..after playing against the Nets 4 times this year and being able to see Lopez each time I must say that, that Lopez guy has really impressed me in his rookie season. Can only imagine what the Hawks could do if we had a big man in the center like him with this squad we have now.

By Dick Vitale

January 31, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

Great job Woody, scintillating, sensational, fantastic, super-duper, awesome with a capital A, you’r’e a prime time player - a P-T-P er, baby!!

By kirkinga

January 31, 2009 12:15 AM | Link to this

doc, I don’t know if I’d used “optimistic” necessarily, let’s just say that I hope the Hawks can at least play .500 ball the rest of the way. I’d like them to play better of course, but .500 assures them a winning season and a playoff spot which is all I’m expecting of them this season.

I’m glad to see you touch on how more minutes for Acie will impact others. I really think that’s an underdiscussed point. As I said before, Solo IMHO, makes the most of his little minutes, much more than Acie at least.

Tiger Woo, yes an exciting season. But after 9 unsuccessful seasons we’re in the midst of something really good. Seems like we can be happy for the entire organization.I really don’t know how to root for the team, but not the coach, or owners, and/or GM.It doesn’t feel right.

E.G.,my question to you is why don’t you “address” the wins as passionately as the losses? The Hawks have been above .500 all season long, why not get into the wins instead of the losses?

Go Hawks!!

By Woody (Tiger Woo)

January 31, 2009 12:22 AM | Link to this

E.G.

Let ‘em talk dawg, it don’t phase me It might not be right if they don’t hate me Won’t you tell ‘em how mad I make ya? You don’t feel me, ice grill me Hate so bad, you wanna kill me Hustle hard, stack paper, it’s alright, y’all hate us It’s nothin, we major, you see me, hi hater!!!! Hi hater!!!! Hi hater!!!! You see me, hi hater!!!! Hi hater!!!! Hi hater!!!! You see me, hi hater!!!! Yeah, let ‘em see me, HI HATER!!!! Pull off easy, BYE HATER!!!! You don’t like me, WHY HATER?!!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 12:28 AM | Link to this

If Dickie V is complimenting Woody then Woody definitely should be fired.

By E. G.

January 31, 2009 12:29 AM | Link to this

TO KIRKINGA from E.G.

I can’t address the wins as passionately as the losses because these are the types of production we should be seeing every night if Woody were to give players rest at the appropriate times and makes substitutions at the appropriate times.

A good coach knows how to manage players so they will be healthy physically and mentally, and this will prevent the mental, emotion, and physical break downs that I have seen on this team.

I care about these players emotional and physical welfare, but it doesn’t seem like Woody recognizes how his bad decisions affects their performance.

Therefore, there is no way I can address the wins when I see too much inconsistency.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 12:31 AM | Link to this

I only saw the first half, but I have a question… in a game the Hawks won by nearly 20 points, why did Joe Johnson play 43 minutes?

By Tiger Woo

January 31, 2009 12:41 AM | Link to this

E.G.

Mental, emotion, and physical break downs?

We’re f********in’ 27-19, baby!! Gotta love it!!

Yes we can !!

By Da Real Real

January 31, 2009 12:42 AM | Link to this

lol…Najeh I just thought the same thing about Dickie V complimenting Woody.

The funny thing about the “fire Woody” aspect is that nobody answers the question as to who you’re going to have to step in for him for the rest of the season. I can’t recall to many cases where a new hire is brought in during the middle of the season. We usually see an interim coach that was a part of the staff step in for the remainder of the season. So if coaching is the problem then we’d be saying that we have a problem with the overall staff right? If that’s the case firing Woody right now might not make that much of a difference if the same staff that helped him make some of his decisions is still around. I have my complaints about Woody, but so far this year I can’t think of to many games that he’s blown for the team like he did last year. Most of the losses that I think of this year boil down to individual players focus and the lack there is some times. Can’t blame a coach for players missing free throws or making poor decisions when it comes to shots and passes. Same things a coach can be blamed for but there are a lot of other things that’s up to the player

By Woody (Tiger Woo)

January 31, 2009 12:47 AM | Link to this

E.G.

Yeah, yeah, where the haters at? All the hatin cats. When they hate on you then they know you doin somethin. It’s cool they hated on Jesus. I came up now, now what’s up now. It’s alright love, I let a hater hate.

By Tiger Woo

January 31, 2009 12:51 AM | Link to this

Keep it real, Da Real Real!!

Yes we can !! That’s the new Hawks slogan!! (sorry Mr. President).

By doc

January 31, 2009 12:58 AM | Link to this

kirk, i look forward to seeing where we are as we head into march and discuss it then. we do beat this stuff into the ground and will continue to. isnt a blog is very little like war as we ask “what would happen if no one showed up?” guess it would be like a tree falling in the woods and the sound it makes if no one is there to listen. it should be fun to remember some of these chats.

the month of february truly will be a measure of the team. i also look to see the all star game have a posittive effect on jj in spite of the minutes he plays. i dont see him getting that many minutes and most of it is pretty soft on one end of the court anyway.

By Tiger Woo

January 31, 2009 1:00 AM | Link to this

W - Wonderful

O - Outstanding

O - Off the chain

D - Dynamic

Y - Y not?

What do you get? Woody!! Woody!!

By Tiger Woo

January 31, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this

doc,

Sensational stuff !! Man, I feel good !!

Yes we can !!

By doc

January 31, 2009 1:08 AM | Link to this

tiger, dont drink too much of that sensational stuff man. heh heh, it may be too strong for you.

By Reggie

January 31, 2009 1:17 AM | Link to this

Najeh= I wish he got out sooner but we really poured in on in the last 5 minutes so he couldn’t get out too early. Also the fact that he is right on 10,000 points could have been a factor and they wanted him to get it at home? He ended up on 9,999.:/ He also was the one that finished the game and got it out of reach for us. Marvin IS NOT a bust. Since he came back like I have mentioned time and time again, he has driven to the lane. Maybe if some people would watch the games instead of look at the box score you would notice that he had about 4 dunks tonight and quite a few since he came back. He is showing a lot of versatility in shooting and driving so lay off of the guy. Last year i wanted him off the team but this year he is showing signs of being our # 2 option to score. Good win tonight vs. the Nets. Joe was actually aggressive at the hoop and was just toying with some of those fools in the lane. His jump shot was not even what got him the buckets tonight. Let’s hope we can handle Milwaukee again tomorrow like we did last week and rest Joe a bit from his 40 minutes a game. Give Woody a rest. You are just wasting your time cause he’s not going anywhere.

By kirkinga

January 31, 2009 1:48 AM | Link to this

Therefore, there is no way I can address the wins when I see too much inconsistency.

Well that’s more of that “ignore the win” stuff someone else brought up last week and I still can’t get behind that. You play the game to win not to look good.

Besides, if you really about consistency, then the Hawks have consistently won more than they have lost, so yeah here’s to being consistently in the win column because that all that matters.Winning makes it all worth it.

If you really care about the player’s emotional and physical welfare then ain’t nothing like winning to reward their efforts right?I think they’d rather win than play 5-6 minutes less a game.

Anyway, right on man, you keep on chasing that Woodson monster!

Go Hawks!!

By ant banks

January 31, 2009 4:29 AM | Link to this

the hawks next 5 games: @milwaukee, @minnesota, @charlotte, CLIPPERS, WASHINGTON. there is no reason to think that we can’t go 5-0 before the allstar break and that dreaded west coast swing.

if we go 5-0 in the next 5games, that would put us at 32-19. now that really sounds good.

GO HAWKS

By ant banks

January 31, 2009 4:32 AM | Link to this

i see that miami has moved up to the 5th seed now. the hawks vs miami in the 1st round of the playoffs is a sexier match-up, rather than meetin’ detroit in the 1st round.

i think that we could beat either team in a 1st round series, but i wade goes into that zone during the playoffs and we also don’t know who miami is goin’ to pick up before the trade deadline

GO HAWKS!!

By The Truth

January 31, 2009 10:19 AM | Link to this

Kudos to the Hawks for the nice win. Maybe Woody is beginning to read these blogs after-all. However, I’m not going to bite on the turn-away thing just yet. I’ll be impress when they perform like this on the road. Stat: Of all the 1-8 seeded teams in the NBA, the Hawks has the worst road record (half emty). However, the Hawks has the 4th best home record in the NBA (half full) consistent with their record. Therefore at home the Hawks play lights-out but on the road they suck. Thus the victory against the Net was in accordance with their record. Still nice win though.

By jhan

January 31, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

The problem with playing Miami in the first round is Wade. You’re not allowed to play defense against him anymore. Every time he misses a shot the whistle blows & he gets 2 free throws.

I know the guy has great skills, but he gets better treatment from the refs than Bird/Jordan ever did. That being said - the Hawks are a better team than Miami so we should beat them. Same with the Pistons.

Marvin is definitely NOT a bust. Not a stud either but better than average.

Woody is NOT a bust. Just an average coach at the very best.

By richbrave

January 31, 2009 10:46 AM | Link to this

doc:

No more CRITTENTON reports for you.

By NO TV 4 U

January 31, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

WTF is up with NO TV tonight. Its Sat night. ITS AN AWAY GAME. Geez…theres nothin better on. Sure have been a lot of untelevised games this year!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 12:58 PM | Link to this

Thanks Reggie. I thought that might have been the reason.

Between Detroit and Miami I’d rather play Miami, even with D-Wade’s ability to draw phantom foul calls. Detroit has too many experienced players, and I’d be surprised if they didn’t find a way to get it together for the playoffs. Miami on the other hand relies on a lot of rookies and young players.

By Ray, Ray, Ray....

January 31, 2009 1:42 PM | Link to this

Sekou’s dry cleaning is ready. Don’t be late this time.

By Ken Strickland

January 31, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

EG-you took the words right out of my mouth. We can only wonder how long it will take Woodson to retreat back to his confort zone and his beloved 7 man rotation. As we saw in last nights gm, speading the wealth(mins/playing time) will increase the wealth(overall production). there seemed to have been a more conscience effort to keep the ball moving and not get bogged down with a lot of iso’s nad pick and rolls, and it worked.

Although it doesn’t show in the box scores, Acie and Solo did some nice work. Their BIGS started off strong, but Solo and Zaza wore them down, got them into foul trouble, and rendered them ineffective down the stretch. Woodson seems to want to win gms in the 1st half by overplaying his starters and trying to get big leads. When that doesn’t happen, we usually end up entering the 4th qtr with our starters out of gas after playing so many mins.

Like last night demonstrated, all we need to do is stay close the 1st 3qtrs, then come on strong in the 4th qtr. We have the talent, experience, versatility and depth to accomplish that consistently. OUR TEAMS LIMITATIONS, SO FAR THIS SEASON, ARE A DIRECT REFLECTION OF WOODSON’S COACHING LIMITATIONS. OUR STARTERS OFTEN SHOW SYMPTOMS OF FATIGUE, FROM PLAYING TOO MANY MINS, AND OUR OVERALL BENCH ISN’T AS PRODUCTIVE AS IT SHOULD/COULD BE. THAT’S BECAUSE WOODSON, FOR WHATEVER REASON, WILL NOT ACCEPT, NOR DELEGATE, THE RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGING PLAYERS MINS. NOR HAS HE SHOWN ANY WILLINGNESS TO DEVELOP AND EFFECTIVELY UTILIZE HIS YOUNGER PLAYERS, ESPECIALLY IF THEY’RE BACKCOURT PLAYERS.

As a franchise, we should be trying to develop a team of and for the future. Getting off to strong starts, then faltering and becoming an inconsistent team of streaks, that plays little more than 500 ball, is not what we should be content with. But that’s about all we seem to be getting with Woodson at the controls. How often will we have the opportunity to sign a FA, with the talent and personality of JJ? If we don’t do something to change the atmosphere Woodson has created around here, not only will we be unable to attract other FA’s, we’ll be unable to retain the ones we already have. THIS HAWKS TEAM IS TALENTED, EXPERIENCED, VERSATILE AND DEEP ENOUGH TO WIN WITH OR WITHOUT WOODSON. HOWEVER, IT’S NOT LIKELY IT’S EVER GOING TO WIN BIG OR CONSISTENTLY WITH HIM.

By terrell barron

January 31, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

Come on Tiger. You cant love Woody that much. Can you?

By jhan

January 31, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this

I think Tiger has a man crush!! LOL

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 4:59 PM | Link to this

Maybe the “Woo” in “Tiger Woo” is short for “Woodson”?

By Ken Strickland

January 31, 2009 6:32 PM | Link to this

NAJEH-that was cold.

By terrell barron

January 31, 2009 6:42 PM | Link to this

Never thought of that Najeh. “Woo” for Woodson. Makes sense. Just messin with you Tiger. lol!!

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 7:15 PM | Link to this

I just check the NBA TV guide (on TimeWarner) and they have the Bucks/Hawks game schedule to be broadcast (on NBA7) tonight. So if you have the NBA league pass like I do, then we may be in luck to watch the game tonite….

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this

Looks like the geame will be shown online at the website link below….

Bucks/Hawks Game

By Ken Strickland

January 31, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this

DA REAL DEAL-you promote one of the assistants, preferably Larry Drew. That way, you maintain familiarity between the players, new HC, and the OFF, as it were. I emphasised Drew because his NBA career was based on speed and quickness. That allows him to appreciate the obvious positive effects playing an up tempo OFF would have on the Hawks. Everyone seems to understand that fact, except Woodson.

Recognizing a HC’s shortcomings, and the negative effects it can and does have on his team, isn’t HATING, it’s being astute. Please try to understand the difference. If you take away our strong start, and our 8gm homestand, most of our key players, and overall team, have struggled with inconsistency.

TIGER WOO-I remember when you were emphasizing our 27-16 record. You seem unable to grasp the fact that recently, our wins are far too often coming at the end of losing streaks. When Woodson needs to satisfy his need for control, he shortens the rotation. Tnen we start missing freethrows, having high unforced turnovers, and losing close gms and/or getting blown out. When the pressure mounts from losing, he always pulls back, starts using his bench and allows the team to play uptempo, like he did last night. Once the pressure’s off, and he starts to fuel his need for attention and control, the rotation is shortened, the younger players, and bench, are ignored, and the starters are forced to play heavier mins.

That kind of coaching inconsistency affects the team and the players. Yes, we’re still the 4th seed now, but the teams that were losing earlier are now starting to win more frequently, and we’re starting to lose more frequently.

By terrell barron

January 31, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

Breaking news from NBA TV: Coach Mike Woodson said Horford should return next week. For a minute there, I thought Woodrow had been fired. Tiger would’ve fainted. lol!!

By Da Real Real

January 31, 2009 8:21 PM | Link to this

The key word there Ken is “if”. IF I was 3 inches taller maybe you’re talking about what I did or didn’t do on this blog lol. IF we had made some of those free throws in games we lost, or made a couple of open layups, made a couple of more open shots, then we’re probably not talking about firing Woody at all. I can even throw in the stretch where Smoove was injured, ZaZa was banged up, and now big Al. All of that is fine if we’re going to play a game of “IF” but unfortunately we can’t. We can’t take away the strong start or the long homestand no matter what.

If we’re talking about firing a guy then I’d much rather see some significant change which is where you and I would probably agree to disagree. I honestly don’t think even Drew would be that big of a change over Woody. He’s served on this staff for years. I’m not saying Drew is a bad coach at all I just don’t think we’re going to see that much of a significant change in what we have now. I called for Woody’s head a lot last year. I haven’t said anything about hating….I can understand why some guys would say he needs to be fired except I’m not standing on that side of the line right now this year. Like I said last night…most of our losses this year come more from lack of focus from the players (Ex. missed free throws).

I honestly doubt we’ll see a firing happen unless the Hawks drop a few games below .500. If that was to happen then I’m all for firing Woody. I don’t think the ASG have enough guts to just fire Woody, right now, when we’re over .500 and fighting for the 4th seed right now in the east.

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 8:33 PM | Link to this

The is being broadcast on NBA League Pass. Looks like Andrew Bogut will play tonite. Hopefully we can put the clamps on him and Charlie V….

By Blast

January 31, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this

Great win vs NJ last night. Lovely ball game. 1st time this season I have seen Woody utilize so many different players at so many different times. Out there was Acie playing with Joe and Flip, Acie playing with Bibby and Joe, Solo and Zaza mixing it up, ball swinging from side to side, Hawks playing inspired defence and getting the win, it was sweet to see.

All that being said, people are saying Bibby and Joe have broken out of their shooting slumps. I am not inclined to believe that yet. They need to show it for 3-4 games in a row. They played well last night, but that is only what we expect from them on a consistent basis. They are our All Stars, after all.

Folks, please quit knocking on Marvin Williams. This is the best the guy has played since being drafted, and he’s only going to get better. It’s not just on his offence, but he plays good defence too.

Art Banks, yes it will be great to win the next 5 games. Hawks should win all those games. Redd is out for Milwaukee, not sure if Bogut is back, though the Hawks cannot take that for granted. They cannot afford to sleep on this team. The Wolves have been playing well lately, so they won’t be easy at home. Hawks beat the Bucks tonight, win vs Minny, then they might have a shot at 5 in a row, especially if Joe and Mike stays hot, or at least just play well, as they both said. Which goes back to asking if they are really out of the slump yet. Joe goes for 25-30 tonight, Hawks win, then I would hazzard that his January slump has been due to him worrying if he was gonna get selected to the All Star team! Maybe he has a clause in his contract that pays him extra if he makes the All Star team! Think about that!

Talking about 1st round match-ups, I really think Detroit will be a better match-up for the Hawks. Watching Detroit play the Celtics last night, you could tell the Pistons do not play as a cohesive unit. It’s just pass the ball, jack up a shot, and no chance for an offensive rebound. Miami is getting better as the season goes on, their rookies are playing big, and they have Wade, the one true SuperStar that can make the unbeliveable happen and get all the calls in the world, something the Pistons do not have. I will not put Iverson in that category anymore. The only way the Hawks will beat Miami in a 7 game series is if they have home court, and play at a very high level.

I agree. I can’t remember so may untelevised games halfway into the season.

It’s kind of unfair that the Nets have two 7-footers that can score! Hawks have none. Boone of the Nets, I know you make more money than the average American, but sir, I think you have the worst, the most greasy looking dreads in the history of the world. You can’t tell me your woman likes that mess? Halle Selassie is turning in his grave right now. If you entered my office looking for a job with hair like that, I would kick your sorry as.s staight out the door!

Game time folks! On radio!

By Blast

January 31, 2009 8:38 PM | Link to this

I the Hawks stay 5-10 games over 500 going to the end of the season, and they advance to the 2nd round, Woody ain’t going nowhere.

By Blast

January 31, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

Joe Johnson! 10,000 career points! Congratulations!

By RLP

January 31, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

I agree with those who fear Miami more than Detroit. But at this point the most important point is that the team MUST finish no lower than fifth to have any chance of going beyond the first round of the playoffs. But getting to the playoffs and not going beyond the first round, while disappointing would still be a step in the right direction unless the won loss record is less than .500. Going beyond the first round will be wonderful. Of course for those who want to see Woody go, getting past the first round would be the worse disaster of all. For the team and the rest of us it will be a continuation of the progress we have been hoping for.

Go Hawks.

By jhan

January 31, 2009 8:55 PM | Link to this

If they finish 10 games over & win their 1st round series Woody deserves to finish his contract.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 8:58 PM | Link to this

If you have SopCast, you can watch the game streaming live here.

By go-hawks

January 31, 2009 9:04 PM | Link to this

is there a link to watch the game

By ray

January 31, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

Didn’t get to comment on the last game, due to hightailing it out of town, attending a funeral due to death in the family.

Good to see JJ get his groove back.

Good to see Josh back to playing mean-a$$ defense.

Good to see Flip trying to be sixth man of the year.

Good to see us get some retribution against the Nets.

Probably won’t get to see tonight’s game, either. Long as we win, I’m good.

Peace y’all…

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

Hawks are down 15pts in the 2nd. The Bucks are on a 17-2 run… They are getting layups and the Hawks are shooting jumpshot (and missing of course)…

By 404atlhoops

January 31, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand how the Hawks can be a completely different team on the road than they are at home. I know its early but how do the Hawks beat the Bucks by 30 and then trail the same team by 15 a week later? That’s a 45 point swing.

By 404atlhoops

January 31, 2009 9:13 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand how the Hawks can be a completely different team on the road than they are at home. I know its early but how do the Hawks beat the Bucks by 30 and then trail the same team by 15 a week later? That’s a 45 point swing.

By Blast

January 31, 2009 9:14 PM | Link to this

Down by 18??????

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 9:15 PM | Link to this

This game is looking an awful lot like the Miami game, where the Hawks went an entire quarter without scoring.

Only difference is, the Hawks played defense in that game. This one, not so much.

By ray

January 31, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

Interesting. Checked in at Yahoosports.com, and it looks like we are going right back to running EVERYTHING through our backcourt again, live or die.

Last night we thrived with it. Tonight…not so much, although they are not shooting badly. The frontcourt is once again hardly involved (other than Josh, who is 3-8). Old habits die hard.

I guess we’re tired. Whatever the deal is, we’re not getting done on defense, as they are shooting nearly 60% from the field. And of course, the potent Charlie V is tearing us a new one…again…

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 9:22 PM | Link to this

This Hawks haven’t seen an open jumpshot they didn’t like all year.. They fall in love with the perimeter shots too easily….

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

On Bucks TV, they are debating who has progressed most since entering the league in 2005: Andrew Bogut, Marvin Williams, or Charlie Villanueva. The consensus among the Bucks commentators seems to be Bogut, but to me it’s way too close to call… Bogut’s even more inconsistent than Marvin is. Wonder what y’all think? I’d probably give it to Charlie V actually, based on what I’ve seen of him this year.

By Najeh Davenpoop

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

Hawks are still missing a ton of jumpshots, but they are playing with more energy now than they were at the end of the 1st/beginning of the 2nd quarter, and the hustle points that have resulted from that have the Hawks trailing only by 6 now.

By RLP

January 31, 2009 9:35 PM | Link to this

And yet at halftime they are only down five.

By 404atlhoops

January 31, 2009 9:41 PM | Link to this

I missed the comeback by the Hawks. I started watching the end of the Nets-Sixers game. Nice win by the Nets in Philly. Now that the Hawks are back in the game, hopefully they’ll play some defense in the second half.

By Da Real Real

January 31, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

Yeah I’d have to give it to Charlie V based on what i’ve seen of him when going against the Hawks this year too Najeh . Bogut and Marvin are to close to call. I think in the end Marvin is going to be better than Bogut….at least I’m hoping that’s the case

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

The Hawks played better in the 2nd qtr. For the life of me, I can’t understand why they are not running the pick&roll like they did against the Bucks in the ATL. They had much such success with it last game. Hopefully we can pick up the energy in the 2nd half and attack the rim and at least swing the ball around on the offensive end to find the open man before attempting a jumpshot.

By E. G.

January 31, 2009 9:47 PM | Link to this

TO DA REAL REAL FROM E.G.

DA REAL REAL SAID, “The funny thing about the “fire Woody” aspect is that nobody answers the question as to who you’re going to have to step in for him for the rest of the season.”

DA REAL REAL, MY BROTHER, THE HAWKS DON’T NEED ANYONE FROM THE OUTSIDE TO STEP IN: ALL THEY HAVE TO DO IS USE ONE OF THE ASSISTANT COACHES ON STAFF ALREADY TO FILL IN AS INTERIM COACH.

GOT IT?

By E. G.

January 31, 2009 9:58 PM | Link to this

HEY GUYS, WHY HASN’T ACIE LAW PLAYED YET?

IS IT BECAUSE OF MATCHUP PROBLEMS?

HOW MANY MINUTES IS JJ AND BIBBY PLAYING?

DOES WOODY SEEM TO BE MAKING THE RIGHT SUBSTITUTIONS?

By E. G.

January 31, 2009 10:09 PM | Link to this

MILWAUKEE BEATS TORONTO LAST NIGHT, AND NOW THEY ARE BEATING US TODAY!!!

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

ALL THE OTHER TEAMS JUST BELOW US LOST TONIGHT. WHY CAN’T WE BE RESPONSIBLE AND BEAT MILWAUKEE TONIGHT TO LENGTHEN OUR LEAD ON MIAMI, DETROIT AND OTHERS.

THIS IS GETTING RIDICULOUS!!

SOME GUYS ON THIS BLOG MAKE A BIG DEAL OF THE HAWKS WINNING ONE GAME ONLY TO SEE THEM LOSE THE NEXT DAY TO A LOOOOOOOOOOOOOSERRRRRRRRR.

THIS IS GETTING RIDICULOUS.

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 10:18 PM | Link to this

The Hawks has lost their composure in the 3rd qtr. We are down 13 pts going to start the 4th qtr. If we dont outscored the Bucks by at least 13pts then it doesn’t matter if we win the 4th qtr..

By ray

January 31, 2009 10:21 PM | Link to this

Da Real Real,

The true question is “Will Marvin be better for this team than Bogut is for HIS team?”

In the meantime, we get closer, then fall behind…get closer, then fall behind. The combination of bad defense and bad shooting continues to kill us. Living and dying through our backcourt again as well. Sigh….

4th quarter. Gut check time..

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 10:27 PM | Link to this

2nd Half Meltdown….

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:36 PM | Link to this

It’s quite simple why the Hawks are trailing right now… they have played extremely stupid basketball in the 2nd half. Solomon Jones belongs in the D-League. Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and Zaza Pachulia have made all kinds of stupid plays. The defense has been too slow to rotate on nearly every play. It’s not that hard to defend this Bucks team — just don’t give them open perimeter looks and you’ll be fine, but the Hawks apparently didn’t get this memo.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

God dammit, the free throw bug hits again at the worst time… Josh Smith had a chance to make it a one-score game and bricked the free throw.

By RLP

January 31, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this

Josh missed 2 ff which would have pulled us to within 3. Oh my.

By SIMPDAWG

January 31, 2009 10:44 PM | Link to this

Where’s Steve Smith and Mookie Blaylock when you need them?

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:50 PM | Link to this

Well on the positive side, Miami lost, so the Hawks only lose the half-game to Detroit if they lose tonight.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:52 PM | Link to this

Man, when Bibby has no defensive help he really, really gets exposed. Ramon Sessions just walked to the basket for a layup.

The Bucks commentators are loving them some Joe Johnson…

By SIMPDAWG

January 31, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

Can someone explain to me, why Solomon Jones play for the Hawks? Hell they should have kept Batista.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:55 PM | Link to this

By the way the Bucks have only missed three free throws all night. It’s really hard to mount a comeback against a team that is hitting all its free throws, because it means you can’t gain ground by making it into a free throw shooting contest.

Bucks wasted all 24 seconds on their shot clock, but the Hawks played great D and made them shoot an airball. It still doesn’t look good though… down by 4 with 12 seconds left.

Speaking of doesn’t look good… let’s just say the Bucks’ cheerleaders are nowhere near the same level as the A-Town Dancers.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 10:56 PM | Link to this

Josh Smith with the nice putback. Down by 2, but Luke Ridnour’s on the free throw line… not a good scenario.

By Da Real Real

January 31, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

Yeah Ray that is the true question. That’s why I’m hoping in the end its Marvin being better for us than Bogut for the Bucks.

E.G. My brother….That was the point I was making when I typed that out last night.

By Melvin

January 31, 2009 11:01 PM | Link to this

Hawks won the 4th qtr but lost the game. How do you like those stats…

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

“The true question is “Will Marvin be better for this team than Bogut is for HIS team?” “

That’s very true… but considering the Hawks’ financial situation and the makeup of the roster, Marvin’s ultimate impact to this team might come in the form of his trade value.

Bogut’s a lot like Marvin in one way though — you see him play and you can tell he has the skills to be a star, but for whatever reason he just hasn’t put it together yet.

By SIMPDAWG

January 31, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are going to regret losing all these winnable games.

By Najeh Davenpoop

January 31, 2009 11:16 PM | Link to this

Another thing… Joe Johnson Minutes Watch: 44 today, after playing 43 yesterday.

Acie Law Minutes Watch: 3 today, after playing 12 yesterday. He didn’t make much of an impact in the stat sheet, but his three minutes were three quality minutes. On one play he drove inside, drew the defense, and set up Flip Murray with a wide open 3 which he bricked.

By ray

January 31, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

Close loss. We didn’t play defense worth a crap (Milwaukee shot 52%).

Ramon Sessions is a good player (and a good D-league story), but we let him get away with 20 and 7? Speaking of which, Charlie V has our number, and we also let Richard “Jersey traded me because I’m NOT a franchise player” Jefferson do his thing a bit too much.

Joe gets 22 and 9…but it takes him 23 shots to get there. This, right after an all-star performance the night before. What was he saying a day or two ago about some guys acting like they could “do it all alone?” I’m just sayin’….

Can’t blame it on the free throw shooting. We actually did well this time. Can’t blame it on turnovers (Solo and JJ had the high there, with Pachulia and Bibby right behind them). I don’t care what anybody says: stat box says Marvin and Josh only had 1 turnover between them.

Josh has another very solid game with 18 and 11, including two steals and 3 blocks. 50% shooting…again. Bibby had a nice game with 24, 4 and 4.

Nope, gotta chalk this one up to bad defense, as the foul issues clearly illustrate…

By ant banks

January 31, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

i am gettin’ real frustrated wit’ these hawks, keep losin’ winnable games.

i also think that jj and horford are bein’ irresponsible by playin’ in the allstar games. i mean for weeks, we have been bloggin’ about how jj is playin’ 43 min per night. he should take this time off to rest so that he can be ready to gun it when the season opens back up.

also horford has missed 9 games to an injury and instead of usin’ the break to rest up and get rejuvenated what does he do? go and play with the sophomores.

By Mark

January 31, 2009 11:31 PM | Link to this

Well Sekou, this game helps to justify that STUPID STAT you gave about how we lead the league in net points in the fourth.

Where are all the JOSH APOLOGIST tonight.

Milwaukee went to HACK-A-JOSH because they know he sucks at shooting freethrows. I see why the SIXERS chose Elton Brand over him in the offseason. Philadelphia made it seem as if they wanted him when they were working a deal behind the scenes with Brand to steal him from the Clippers. They know a player with real skills and not some ATHLETIC BUFFOON with a HOT TEMPER and LOW BASKETBALL IQ.

Why did we offer this guy 58 million, we should have let the GRIZZLIES have him.

You suck Josh!!

I feel sorry for Joe because he is playing with a bunch of STIFFS!!! (and yeah that includes Mike “No Defense” Bibby.

I wish we could trade Josh and Marvin for Amare Stoudamire next year since he will be a free agent in 2010. (like Joe)

GO JOE!! SCREW THE HAWKS

By ant banks

January 31, 2009 11:41 PM | Link to this

mark, so why don’t you tell us how you REALLY feel about josh smith. i mean don’t hold back brutha.

By Mark

January 31, 2009 11:42 PM | Link to this

Ray who are you suppose to be? You really think Marvin and Josh are good. Marvin “Duck” Williams is just not a player. All this so called potential that he was suppose to have just doesn’t exist. Josh is just an athlete that THINKS he is good. He can’t dribble, he can’t shoot, and with his athletic ability you would think that he would lead the league in rebounding. He is quite inconsistent and here you go supporting him because of tonight. He wanted prove he was worth the money that the Grizzlies offered him, but instead he is proving why we let the wrong Josh leave. Marvin has ability and unlike Josh, actually is a smart player. He just doesn’t have the attitude to be a great player.

By Sekou K. Smith

January 31, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this

New blog up folks. Sorry for the delay but we’re trying something new tonight with the late start (local time). New blog up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By RLP

January 31, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this

Once again the Hawks have a strong fourth quarter winning the quarter by 10 points but unable to overcome the deficit from earlier in the game.

For the Acie fans the team was -6 while he was playing. I am not sure what that means since I did not see the game. The box score on ESPN indicates that Josh did not start. Is that right? Was that an example of Woody’s coaching? Again the box score shows that Mo started in his place and the team was -20 during his 17 minutes of PT. All of the normal starters had + times except for Marvin who was -9. Josh was +8. Solo was -14.

Based on the IF game someone mentioned earlier Al Horford could have made a difference. On the other hand so could Michael Redd.

Maybe the last part of a young team’s maturation process is learning how to win on the road. For the last two years the team has won 12 games on the road each year. This year’s team has won 9 with almost a half a the season to go. And close losses do not mean much but in losing the team is coming close more often than during the last 4 years so in spite of the spate of losses in January the team is still progressing. The question is if the fans can remain patient enough for the growth to show enough progress? How many wins will it take to keep a sufficient number of fans happy? 42? 45? 50? I think 42 is the very minimum.