Hawks

By rms

February 25, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

First!! What took you so long Sekou??

By cp

February 25, 2009 11:00 PM | Link to this

Like always the Hawks go away from whats working.

By MAC-TOWN

February 25, 2009 11:00 PM | Link to this

Marvin = better player than Josh Smith

By rms

February 25, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

This team can cause you ulcers or frequent trips to the T.V. repair shop. They truly are a team you love to hate. It would be nice if we had an identity.

By cp

February 25, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

Anthony Carter is terrible.

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

Jhan,

True. But is it because Josh gets in Marvin’s way, or because Marvin has to step up as a scoring forward when Josh is out? All I know is that Marvin did not play like this LAST year, so I felt like there’s no way we could let Josh Smith go. However, if the offense is run correctly, Marvin looks damn good. And I’m okay with him as our SF of the future…but not Horford remaining as the Center.

Guess you can figure out where I’m going with this.

Nice, Joe. We get going, and you travel on a fast break. Yeeesh, come on man.

In the meantime, look who is instrumental in getting us back in this game. That’s right…the player formerly known as Duck…

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

Thera-Flu bro. Like Rampage Jackson, it’ll knock you out!

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 25, 2009 11:07 PM | Link to this

Predictably, tonight’s inspired first half performance without Josh Smith has resulted in all kinds of people blaming him for the recent road losing streak, the lack of energy, the recession, and the war in Iraq.

Never mind that Bibby is out tonight too. Never mind that they predictably fell apart in the 3rd quarter.

Yes, Marvin does look better without Josh — in this game. This is the same Marvin who was his usual maddeningly inconsistent self during most of November when Josh was injured.

We all know Marvin has the ability to be a solid 20 points per game scorer. We all know Josh has the ability to be a dominating defensive presence. We all — except for Clyde — know that Al Horford has the ability to hold it down inside.

The common thread here is Woody. And although I am one of those people who wonders whether Woody’s potential replacement will be an improvement or a downgrade, there’s no way you can look at this team and say Woody is getting the most out of it.

I am open to any trade that makes this team better, whether it means giving up Josh, Marvin, Al, Joe, or anyone else. But I am never in favor of getting rid of players because the coach doesn’t know how to use them properly. Of all the Hawks’ players, Josh is maybe the most poorly utilized, and that’s not a good enough reason to get rid of him in my opinion.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:08 PM | Link to this

Marvin Williams is having a monster night. Has the Hawks within six … never mind, another jumper from Melo.

By niremetal

February 25, 2009 11:09 PM | Link to this

My eyes popped when I saw that the Hawks were 19 for 20 from the line. Maybe that’ll rub off on Smoove once he rejoins the team.

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:09 PM | Link to this

Damn, that was a nice pass by Flip….followed by the steal and dunk!

By Seth

February 25, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

Marvin still didn’t get a bowflex for Christmas.

By KevinA

February 25, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

I like it when we feature Marvin and Al in the offense. Going through JJ should not be our identity.

By bigdave

February 25, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

Marvin turning in another solid performance as a #2 option…

By Ken Strickland

February 25, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

It’s taken this far into the season for Woodson to realize the advantages of pressing full court DEF. I’ve been preaching that since last yrs playoff series with Boston. Anybody notice how much better we are offensively when the decision is made to make Marvin the focus of the OFF? And, have you also noticed how much difficulty teams have had trying to stop Marvin when we feature him?

By rms

February 25, 2009 11:15 PM | Link to this

Somebody tell Joe to stop dribbling the ball and pass it to Marvin or Horford. Nobody can stop them now. they are doubling you Joe so run the offense through Horford or Marvin. come on genius!

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

Scrappy Hawks won’t go away. Still clinging with at the six minute mark. Impressive.

Wish Al and Marvin were free to play this way all the time.

By BravesFan79

February 25, 2009 11:17 PM | Link to this

Im so glad that self-hating racist scumbag Charles Barkley is going to jail!! Funny how all the articles now talk about his DUI.. .but leave out the fact he was caught with his pants down! Cheating on his wife AGAIN!

Charles the sooner i never have to see your ugly worthless mug on tv again the better!

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:18 PM | Link to this

Mac-Town,

In some ways, but not all. He’s a better shooter from the line and the field in general. But he’s not as capable on the boards or on defense.

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

Horford has missed several easy shots tonite…

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:19 PM | Link to this

Hawks can’t catch a break with some of these shots.

And that was not a good call. The ball was coming out of the cyliner. Hell, it was already out…

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

Murray is an impressive leaper…

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:23 PM | Link to this

Mo Evans aint doing nothing…

By KevinA

February 25, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

Look I like Bibby but what if we had a point guard that lived in the paint and thought pass first. With Bibby’s contract that should be do able. We need a point guard that will feature our front court. It might be fun to see Al play his natural position and Solo Start. Then feature Josh in the second unit.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:25 PM | Link to this

Joe scores every time if he doesn’t get doubled.

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

Everyone on the planet knows JJ will get doubled as soon as he gets the ball. WHY IN THE DEVIL IS THERE NO COUNTER PLAY FOR THIS??!

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:28 PM | Link to this

Can’t keep playing HORSE with these guys…

Great 4th quarter effort by this team. Too bad we’re outcoached and have no answer for the brilliance that is Billups.

GREAT hustle by Marvin and Big Al!

By KevinA

February 25, 2009 11:28 PM | Link to this

We have never had an answer for point guard defense. We will lose but I love the hustle of Marvin.

By Ben

February 25, 2009 11:29 PM | Link to this

didn’t you people know? marvin only shows up to games when players are out. he attacks the rim when no one else on the team feels like it. as soon as Bib / Smoove are back, you will see Marv go hide in the corner with that terrible back posture of his, and you won’t hear from him for 3 weeks til another player misses a game

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:30 PM | Link to this

Sekou, amen to that.

KevinA, we have one. But he doesn’t get to play much.

BravesFan79,

Tell that to his face. Dare ya. Punk.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:31 PM | Link to this

Give the Hawks their credit. They have not given an inch against these Nuggets, who are stroking the ball from deep as well as I’ve seen any team this season.

One of the Hawks’ best games of the season, win or lose. How crazy is this?

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:32 PM | Link to this

About time Mo Evans done some. Big steal by Mo

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 25, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

What the f-ck…. did they not have a timeout left?

By bigdave

February 25, 2009 11:33 PM | Link to this

damn good fight hawks… damn good fight…

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:34 PM | Link to this

Hawks lose a heartbreaker at the buzzer. No timeouts left. 1101-09 Nuggets. Flip has shot at end to win it and ball bounces off front of rim. This hurts. Oh, this hurts bad.

By Ariose

February 25, 2009 11:35 PM | Link to this

Damn…..so close…

By niremetal

February 25, 2009 11:36 PM | Link to this

What the hell…were we out of timeouts? All I see is the play by play showing flip grab a rebound with 6 seconds left and then heave up a missed jumper at the buzzer…

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 25, 2009 11:36 PM | Link to this

“Everyone on the planet knows JJ will get doubled as soon as he gets the ball. WHY IN THE DEVIL IS THERE NO COUNTER PLAY FOR THIS??! “

Because Mike Woodson is a moron.

By KevinA

February 25, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

Nice effort. Lets hope home cooking will turn the Hawks around.

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

Dang it Joe. Why did you take the shot. Better yet, why didn’t you jump into Kmart to draw the foul… Hats off to the Hawks. They were short handed but played with alot of heart. Hopefully this will get us some confidence going into Friday’s game…

By Sekou K. Smith

February 25, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

Hawks fought like crazy for this one. Nothing to be ashamed of tonight. Just didn’t finish at the end. Big steal by Mo. Huge shots by Joe late. And almost a fairy tale finish.

This would have been a huge game to steal.

By Melvin

February 25, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

Najeh, they didn’t have any timeouts…

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 25, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I don’t know how the players feel right now, but as a fan I feel a lot better watching a heartbreaking last-minute loss like this than watching the blowouts they suffered against the Lakers, Portland, and Utah. In fact I’d be curious to know which one the players prefer, or if they even have a preference.

By Dan

February 25, 2009 11:38 PM | Link to this

This loss is all on Woodson. We could of used a time-out on that last play, but then again his stupidity in wasting a time-out, by using two withing a minute or so, cost us the game. Great effort in the 4th quarter for the Hawks.

By cp

February 25, 2009 11:39 PM | Link to this

Denver tried to give us the game and we lost.

By bigdave

February 25, 2009 11:39 PM | Link to this

Marvin used the last timeout on his scramble for a loose ball to save a possession…

By rms

February 25, 2009 11:40 PM | Link to this

DANG its all your fault Sekou! LOL

By Astro Joe

February 25, 2009 11:40 PM | Link to this

How do we keep Mike Glenn?

We gave up too many offensive boards and fell one possession short of a victory. Great effort and while there are no moral victories, they shouldn’t feel like pond scum flying back to the ATL tonight. Hopefully, they feel like they have re-discovered that the are in fact a pretty good team.

By Fritz

February 25, 2009 11:42 PM | Link to this

I don’t get it. Would MJ have given up the ball in that situation? LeBron? Koby? Larry Bird?

I don’t fault Flip. He was absolutely not expecting that pass and it caught him flat footed. JJ was within 4 feet of the basket with the defense back pedalling and he did not take it to the hoop. What is going on with him? He disappeared for the first 8 minutes of the 4th quarter too. He doesn’t seem to have it in him to demand the ball and take over.

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

What a final few minutes!

I’ll settle for mentioning JJ finally coming alive late in the 4th, Marvin with a great game (he should have taken the last shot, or JJ) and Horford showing what he can do as a PF. The two forwards definitely had great games, and JJ had a good 4th quarter.

There are a thousand things we could have done to win this game and actually avoid having to undergo such a furious finish. I’m not going to get into all of that.

The last play? Yes, that’s the easiest one to dissect. I think JJ should have taken that shot or tried for Marvin. Flip wasn’t even ready for that pass, and he shot completely out of rhthym/comfort. Still, it was a close shot. But I’m not mad at either guy. Joe didn’t intend to pass it to Flip, he dribbled into trouble then turned around and flung it to the closest Hawk he could see a clear path to.

We needed to have that intensity for the bulk of the game, not just in the last 5. Well, gotta get ready for Miami.

See y’all later…

By Mark

February 25, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

That last play is why Joe is an ALLSTAR not a SUPERSTAR. No way KOBE, LEBRON, or WADE pass up that shot. Joe is not a Batman, but a Robin. He is nothing more than a sidekick.

Oh yeah we played much better without Josh. Huh Ray?

By DNo

February 25, 2009 11:43 PM | Link to this

why doesn’t Joe take that shot at the end? that’s his job. Flip was shocked he got it. Kobe takes that shot, LB takes it, Pierce takes it. c’mon Joe!

By Reggie

February 25, 2009 11:44 PM | Link to this

Joe should take that shot. He had a rhythm tonight. He had a closer easier shot, he could have possibly gotten fouled, and possible get a tip in with time left. Flip’s shot was unbalanced and a weird shot. Good game though. That one still hurt even if we had men down. Ready to get home.

By ROLLINS TREE

February 25, 2009 11:45 PM | Link to this

Raise your hands if your over this crap already and looking forward to next season with a NEW HEAD COACH!!!!!!!!!!!!

By cp

February 25, 2009 11:46 PM | Link to this

Mo Evans gets whipped defensively night in and night out. Where the hell is that defense he was so known to have? I haven’t seen it all season. This is a game they should have won but the brain farts during crucial moments of the game always come back to haunt us.

By Reggie

February 25, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this

Dan Did you watch the game? The timeouts were used twice when Marvin was had a loose ball. Seriously this one isn’t on Woody. He actually did a wonderful job for coaching a team without two starters. Don’t be stupid now. This was a loss that most people would have predicted to lose big time. I’m proud of us playing with a lot less talent and to stay in there but still would have loved the W

By E. G.

February 25, 2009 11:47 PM | Link to this

In a couple days, the Hawks will be in the 5th spot.

Philadelphia will catch us and take the fifth spot.

We will end up playing Orlando for the first round of the playoffs.

Woody=Coy

By KevinA

February 25, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

The Heat game is very important. Even though were losing so have the other teams. Beating the heat would take the sting out of last three losses.

By Mark

February 25, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

Sekou, I don’t care what you say. A loss is a loss. Joe should have taken that shot. Why the heck did he not shoot it. Flip gets him the ball and as much as he likes to shoot those WEAK floater and SOFT runners, why didn’t he do it then. Flip looked suprise to get the ball back. What a disgrace! Dang Joe! You better not pull that PASSIVE crap this weekend against WADE and LEBRON you IDIOT!

By DNo

February 25, 2009 11:49 PM | Link to this

Could it be any more clear that we have to dump Woody and Smoove this offseason?? Talk about addition by subtraction!

By cp

February 25, 2009 11:50 PM | Link to this

Marvin had a great game but unless he is willing to go out there with that type of mindset every night, then games like this is nothing but a tease of just how good he could be. I really wish we could keep him this aggressive when other guys get back but knowing ol Woody he will force the offense to go through JJ and Bibby. He has to get more creative as a coach.

By Da Real Real

February 25, 2009 11:50 PM | Link to this

This loss I have absolutely no problem with…unlike the other losses on this road trip there was a lot of effort put into this one. Dan, this loss is not on Woodson. I actually thought that this was his best coaching performance this year. He actually had us commanding the tempo of a ball game this year - why can’t he get this team to do that all the time baffles me. Definitely would have liked to see that shot from flip drop would have been nice to carry that win into the Miami game.

By matt Jones

February 25, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

Why can’t Marvin be option 2. JJ, Marvin, Bibby, AL, Josh. Josh should get his shots from getting rebounds. NO plays for him. Marvin is very talented but he must be pushed into the forefront otherwise he will defer to others. The coach must do this. Good effort tonight.

GO HAWKS

By ray

February 25, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

Co-sign what Najeh said…

Easy to chop this one up and talk about what should have happened earlier in the game, but all I can really say at this point is that I hope the energy these guys came with in the 1st and 4th quarters is not all spent.

Phillips needs to be rockin’ against Miami, as the team will need some of the fans’ energy to sustain them. In the words of Kirk

Go Hawks

By 404atlhoops

February 25, 2009 11:51 PM | Link to this

In that situation, I think its better for the Hawks to not have called a timeout and just keep playing. By calling a timeout, Denver gets to set their defense and the Hawks may not get a good shot off. Murray had a wide open look from point blank range but for some reason he short-armed it. He probably makes that shot 8 out of 10 times.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 25, 2009 11:52 PM | Link to this

In fairness to Joe, he was being defended by Kenyon Martin (who is athletic enough to block his shot) and Flip Murray had nobody in front of him. That said Flip clearly wasn’t expecting the pass, and Joe probably should have looked for someone else. It was a pretty chaotic final play though, so I can’t really fault him for making what turned out to be the wrong decision in that situation.

By welikebaseball2

February 25, 2009 11:52 PM | Link to this

Sorry, not buying into the “nothing to hang your head about” garbage. It’s still a loss. The 4th of the 6-game trip. It’s not the effort in this loss that bothers me. It’s what this says about the other losses on the trip. We can take the Nuggets to the buzzer with 2 starters missing, yet we get blown out in the other losses while we were at full strength? This only reinforces the fact that we’re drastically INCONSISTENT.

By Reggie

February 25, 2009 11:53 PM | Link to this

Please don’t blame it on Joe. He had a tough shot and he probably should have taken it but he might have thought there were a few more ticks left and thought Flip could have gotten it and drove in for a layup. JJ was lights out at the end of the 4th and hit some LONG HUGE shots. Seriously some of the comments so far are pretty unnecessary. I’m disappointed that we lost but it is stupid to be mad at someone for this game.

By Reggie

February 25, 2009 11:57 PM | Link to this

rollins tree* Are you serious? You aren’t looking forward to the playoffs at all? **cp Did you not see what Mo did tonight. He happened to be the reason they were turning the ball over in the 4th and why we were getting stops. He also got a steal on the inbound with like 40 seconds left and we then scored. Please think before you type. E.G. We’ll see about that Mr. Positive Mark That could be one of the worst comments I’ve seen on these boards. Seriously if you have no idea what you are talking about then leave. What is with these boards tonight.

By Astro Joe

February 25, 2009 11:58 PM | Link to this

Can we keep Mike Glenn? Please!

By rms

February 26, 2009 12:01 AM | Link to this

Even I will admit this loss is not on Woodson! And everyone knows how I loathe Woodson. Nice comeback by the Hawks, though, I think Joe has got to be thinking all the way I got to take this shot. They arent going to call a foul in the final seconds to bail you out unless its blatantly obvious. Dont come out pussyfootin’ around come Friday, come out and play hard and win!

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 12:01 AM | Link to this

How to solve the hawks problems? Even when Bibby returns, run more offense through the front court. Run more plays FOR MARVIN. but with that said……guys like Marvin and Horford HAVE to ALWAYS stay in attack mode…even with Bibby and Josh back

as for defense…just set up SOMETHING that takes away all those easy lay ups/shots in the paint guys get against us.

If those things I mentioned above happen, we wont have to settle for so many games where you see the hawks miss jump shot after jump shot then get back on defense sluggish and half heartedly only to allow some lay up or easy shot in the lane for the opponent.

By Astro Joe

February 26, 2009 12:05 AM | Link to this

Last quarter of a 6 game road trip. Down by 14 points. Missing 2 starters. And your coach asks you to play full court defense for the whole quarter. You suck it up and only allow a team that had scored 92 points in 3 quarters to only 18 points while putting up 31 yourselves. Excuse me if I choose to believe that there is hope for this team yet. Warts and all. Good night gents.

By This Gets Old

February 26, 2009 12:05 AM | Link to this

There are no good losses. They’re supposed to bring the effort. JJ has got to take that shot.

By ray

February 26, 2009 12:06 AM | Link to this

Najeh,

You’re right. Woodson is a moron. So is Mark. Two peas in a pod…

By welikebaseball2

February 26, 2009 12:11 AM | Link to this

Astro Joe, I respect your optimism. I too believe there’s hope for the squad. Would you not agree though that consistency (or the lack thereof) could prevent that hope from being more than just hope? How do you take a 37-20 team to the buzzer with 2 starters missing yet get blown out in other road games while you were at full-strength? I’m just really concerned about the lack of consistency.

By pinoy hawk

February 26, 2009 12:12 AM | Link to this

That last play shows that JJ is not ready to be a leader. If bibby was there he would have taken and made that shot. That said, the hawks need to be physically (bibby) and mentally (josh)ready for the next game.
Go Hawks!!

By gypsyjoe

February 26, 2009 12:13 AM | Link to this

I saw the shot on ESPN and Flip had a short shot and a good look he just missed it. We need to beat the Heat when they come to our house.

By Realist

February 26, 2009 12:24 AM | Link to this

Is Sekou still mocking the Phoenix Suns for their personnel moves? Last week, he told us all how they had fallen apart since trading Joe. Looks to me like Phoenix has a better record—in a tougher conference—than the hawks.

By cp

February 26, 2009 12:27 AM | Link to this

Reggie I also saw Evans get beat defensively by JR Smith and others all night. Please think before you type. I’m so glad he got a huge steal but that steal does not make up for the numerous times Evans is getting punished on the defensive end. Evans wasn’t the reason we were getting steals in the fourth quarter, Anthony Carter was the reason the Nuggets were turning the ball over. When Billups was in the game their offense looked great. As soon as Carter came in he started coughing up the ball. The announcers were talking about how bad Carter was out there . So once again please think before you type. Evans was getting his lunch handed to him defensively as he has pretty much every game this year.

By Moweignman

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

Joe should have taken that ball to the hoop.It would have meant a score or foul.

By niremetal

February 26, 2009 12:30 AM | Link to this

Just saw the replay of the final seconds. And it is unreal the number of people who point the finger at JJ and say that MJ or Kobe would have taken that shot.

That’s total BS. The Bulls won the ‘97 title after MJ got doubled and passed the ball to a wide open Steve Kerr, who stroked the 18 footer to win it. Five years earlier, in the same situation, he passed it to Pippen, who passed it to Grant, who kicked it back out to Paxson - same situation, same result. With the Finals on the line, MJ gave up the ball. Magic and Larry gave up the ball all the time if a teammate had a better shot, even if it was close and late. I don’t doubt that LeBron would too.

The great ones don’t necessarily take the last shot. They take it if they’re in the best position to make it, and they pass if they’re not. JJ was double-teamed and Flip was wide open. JJ might not be one of the all-time greats, but he made the right play.

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 12:39 AM | Link to this

Realist, I dont know if the West is tougher this year. The EAST is better at the DIRECT top. The West is better in the Middle (the playoff teams 4-8 teams..and 9th seed)

but the East’s bottom teams have much better records than the West’s.

It could be said that the West teams have piled up wins against ALL their under 20 wins teams like Wolves, Grizzlies, Thunder,, Clippers, Kings and Warriors (who happen to be right at 20)

By dmortone

February 26, 2009 12:40 AM | Link to this

JJ made the correct play, Birdman(one of the best shot blockers in the nba) would have put that shot in the 12th row if he tried to go up with it, I saw on the replay he was gearing up to do it. Flip was open, he just missed. Good game tho

By Ed

February 26, 2009 12:45 AM | Link to this

Did anyone notice the Hawks were +11 tonight when Acie played? Marvin is the type of player that the coach has to tell we are going to you for him to take on a much bigger role in the offense. He’s not going to command it the way some players would…that being said, he has the talent & ability it now appears to be a big time player. So it’s imperative that Woody takes advantage, but he won’t…ISO JJ.

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 12:45 AM | Link to this

I think JJ should have took the shot, BUT I wont blame him for this game because he did hit BIG SHOTS down the stretch. You cant blame THIS game on JJ.

lol…BUT..to be this superstar/all-star……JJ doesnt come up big in the CLUTCH enough to be considered any of that to me.

He’s just a really good player to me.

By Da Real Real

February 26, 2009 12:48 AM | Link to this

Just seen a replay too…and not only was Kenyan there but Andersen was there too, he had already had what…4 blocks tonight? When looking back on it I can’t blame JJ for getting it out and to an open man. Shot just didn’t drop for Flip although I still believe that JJ knocks down that shot…we’ve seen him do it before.

By bigdave

February 26, 2009 12:49 AM | Link to this

Joe had no good look at the basket… a very long an athletic defender in front and a defenders to his right.. Joe made a good basketball play draw the defense and hope to hit an open spot up man or trailer. i thought the Hawks played as a unit tonight…

all you LBJ/KB jock riders, James in particular has been known to differ to his teammates in game winning situations; has done it the past few seasons vs. the Wizards in their playoff series…

By Magic Fan

February 26, 2009 1:01 AM | Link to this

Hawks Suck Joe Johnson Blows

By Ben

February 26, 2009 1:14 AM | Link to this

a loss is a loss. we lost again on the road. we cannot beat any good teams on the road this year—simple as that. bench is completely awful. to have Mo as your 2nd scoring option off the bench and acie law (who doesnt fit the system) as the backup PG means you obviously aren’t serious about winning. i will say this in every blog: hawks are #4 in the east. what does this mean? nothing. this team will not make it past the 2nd round with this roster

By BA

February 26, 2009 1:28 AM | Link to this

…from “Magic Fan”, speaking in traditional Cave Man dialect: Me Tarzan. You Jane.

Can you say “Magic. Paper tiger”?

By ROLLINS TREE

February 26, 2009 1:39 AM | Link to this

Playoffs? Playoffs? (in Mora voice - NFL joke). No I am not looking forward to the playoffs. Do you really think we are going to have another exciting Celtics series again this year? Uhhhhh NO!! This team is done man. Once again we can not win on the road under Woodson. Just watch… a new coach will come in next season and this team will play the way they should. Im thinking number 2 seed in the East next year with a legit road record.

The fat lady isnt singing yet but trust me she is in the wings warming up and its over for our Hawks this year.

And you punks who leave the “good effort” and “we played hard” comments on here are losers also. DON’T ACCEPT LOSING!!! Atlanta fans (cough cough) are too nice and thats just one of the reasons our city is known as loserville. The point is to win. Not just put up a good fight. Geeeeeezzz!!!

By dcarter

February 26, 2009 1:42 AM | Link to this

I have made this same post a thousand times… RUN THE OFFENSE THRU MARVIN ON THE BLOCK!!!!! HE MAKES THE STRONGEST MOVES TO THE BASKET AND MAKES HIS FREE THROWS…. Joe never gets calls because he avoids the contact and goes up weak….

Woody needs to make sure that we are running the offense inside out and stop running plays to get the ball too joe 30 ft from the basket… Joe is actually a physical mismatch for 95 percent of the 2’s in the league… Force a double team let AL spot up for the short jumper.. u cant leave bibby or marvin and let Josh cut backside and get the easy backside putbacks and dunks off of the ball movement…..

On defense we need to switch help all picks and committ to the hard double team scramble and rotate on defense which will actually raise the game tempo so that we can take advantage or our OVERALL LENGTH AND ATHLETISM….

By SQUAWKER

February 26, 2009 3:23 AM | Link to this

Don’t you mean to say they are THE TEAM WE “HATE TO LOVE”??? Not “Love to Hate”????

crazy game. tough loss. where has that effort been the last 3 weeks?

By Hip Hopcracy

February 26, 2009 6:36 AM | Link to this

What were the PERSONAL REASONS that kept J. Smith in Atlanta yesterday?

Did Woody tell him to get lost?

By smartguy

February 26, 2009 7:09 AM | Link to this

Woodson is a total idiot. I think its time to start thinking about trading Joe Johnson in the offseason…

By Melvin

February 26, 2009 8:06 AM | Link to this

Nice article on the Hawks Can the Hawks finished the Job

By Melvin

February 26, 2009 8:08 AM | Link to this

Have the Hawks won a game on national TV this season???????

By MannyT

February 26, 2009 8:32 AM | Link to this

Sekou—thanks for precognizing this game on the blog intro.

I hate that we lost, but this was an entertaining roller coaster ride. A little more defense on the 3 pt shooting and we get this win, but Denver’s 10 of 18 from 3 is hard to overcome. Can we take the scrappy positives from this game to build something useful for March?

The standard question for the bipolar ball club—can you add to the mix when Bibby and Smith return or will it be subtraction by addition?

Not blaming Woody for any of the TO issues. Marvin kept diving after loose balls and getting them. Unfortunately, the 2nd & 3rd players to the heap were always Nuggets so TOs were called to save the possession. A sports habit that makes more sense in alternating possession (i.e. college) games. If you clearly have an advantage on the tie up (say Marvin vs Billups), teammates should be responsible for calling out some key word like hold instead of time out.

My question for Woody is can he change up things to take advantage of the strengths of his players? Same question for years. If so, we play more of a ball sharing offense that gets more guys involved.

Funny how I keep thinking of the Chuck Daly Pistons as a model for this team. Sure they had more success, but they also had a guard dominant offense. On the flip side, the west coast teams defended Joe the same way Daly used to defend Jordan. Keep running more guys at him until he gives up the ball. The Hawks offense seems to be too stagnant when JJ gets doubled.

Who do you speak with to put a Stinger in front of a heat check on TV?

Imagine what the end of this season would look like if Marvin had Flip’s mentality about scoring. We could see that big points every night and be a threat to the big Eastern teams…hmmm

BWAF

By kwooden1

February 26, 2009 8:39 AM | Link to this

Tough night for me, my Terps lost Duke again!! and the Hawks lost on a last second shot!

Overall, the HAWKS fought hard with two guys out. Marvin, won the match-up against Melo, which I didn’t expect. Billups when off, but Al got his man! I definitely would have liked the win, but Marvin, playing at a high level along with Al is just as important if not more. I didn’t see the game again, just listened and read the box score, but my assessment is there are a lot of good things to pull from this game. Al is getting back to his form and Marvin is taking serious steps towards his potential. But either way its time to move on, Miami is coming …

Miami is all about limiting Wades touches and making him shoot contested jump shots! I would alternate putting Marvin and JJ on Wade and live with any mismatches that creates. JJ has to attack Wade all game long, to wear him down, which leaves Marvin to score. I don’t think Marvin will have an easy time against Diawara but the lane should be open if Al is playing well. If Bibby plays he needs to be 100% because Chalmers is another bad matchup for him. JS better bring his lunch pale to this game, because Miami is going to pound him as the pound the glass. If JS can concentrates on securing rebounds and passing the ball, I think this is a winnable game. But again, job 1 will be to take care of the defensive boards!!

GO HAWKS!!!

By O'brien

February 26, 2009 8:40 AM | Link to this

To have a chance to win like the Hawks did, with 2 starters out, on the road against a division leader, shows exactly what we are capable of. Unfortunately, it just goes to show how inconsistent we are.

Even though we played well without Josh Smith, if I’m not mistaken, doesn’t he usually have good games against the nuggets?

One piece the Hawks are missing is a point guard who can defend another team’s point guard. That way, we wouldnt have to put JJ on him.

Let’s beat the Heat Hawks!

By Dan

February 26, 2009 8:41 AM | Link to this

This hurts I usually do not get too up or down about games, but last night’s game is stinging me. Flip hits that shot 9 out of 10 times…..D@mn!!!!

Would have been huge to get that one. Would have helped make up for some the of the games the Hawks have blown this season. Oh, well….

Friday night’s game is a monster. Roll call….who will be there? I’m at almost every home game. I’ll be there for this one.

By Astro Joe

February 26, 2009 9:21 AM | Link to this

welikebaseball2, sure the Hawks are inconsistent. They have too many warts to be a consistent force. Mostly, the team is lacking leadership… from players and the bench. What I keep trying to suggest is that all of this is relative. We keep holding the Hawks up to some model of near perfection (or perceived perfection), but we don;t need to be anywhere close to perfect. Just closer to it than 11 other clubs in our conference to secure the 4th seed. Once we’re in, then everything changes.

Anyone think that if Sund wants to replace Woody, that he is likely to get a different caliber of coach if we finished the season as a 4th seed than if we finish as a 6th seed?

By rms

February 26, 2009 9:26 AM | Link to this

The only thing though is that it makes you wonder when Friday’s game get here will we convert back to just standing around waiting for something to happen when Bibby and J-Smith are in the lineup. Will we get that kind of effort from Marvin and Horford with all our starters back! Will Marvin be passive again and will Horford get outmatched at the 5 spot. Plus, AC really had a chance to prove hisself and he layed a egg! I hope that dude can redeem himself somehow, but I doubt he will get a chance to.

By Ken Strickland

February 26, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

While playing the last of 5 road gms in mile high Denver, and missing to key starters, the Hawks showed some real spirit. A gm like this, even if it’s a loss, can help turn this team around. We can only hope Mike Woodson learned a key lesson from this. And that is, YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL AN YOU’RE MISSING KEY STARTERS TO USE YOUR BENCH.

The prospect of getting some extended mins seemed to energize West, Acie and Solo, who in turn, seemed to energize JJ and Evans. Oh, and I really like Horford at the 4. We got back into that gm because we extended our DEF fullcourt and created a lot of turnovers. The move also forced them to take extra time off the clock, which forced them to take a number of last second shots. Unfortunately, they made a few of them.

When we meet Miami Friday, we’ll see if Woodson learned anythihg from last nights effort. We’ll also learn if the players will take that don’t give up attitude into Fridays gm. THAT’S THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IN US WINNING AND LOSING, OR BEING ABLE TO OVERCOME WOODSON’S SHORTCOMINGS. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME WE SAW JJ BE THE ASSASSIN HE WAS IN THE 4 QTR LAST NIGHT? HAVE YOU ALSO NOTICED HOW MARVIN HAS DELIVERED BIG WHENEVER WOODSON HAS MADE HIM THE FOCUL POINT IN THE OFF? IT SEEMS TO REV MARVINS ENERGY LEVEL UP, AND HE SUDDENLY BECOMES VERY AGGRESSIVE AND A LOAD FOR THE DEF TO HANDLE. NO OTHER HAWKS PLAYER CAN ATTACK THE DEF AND DRAW FOULS LIKE MARVIN.

Last yr I mentioned the cause of Marvin’s troubles when driving to the basket. I noticed he was s vertical leaper, like myself and Nique. That means when driving to the basket, he has to have his legs under him, instead of leaning forward and jumping off of one leg when he goes up. I don’t know if someone else saw the same thing an drought it to his attention, or he figured it out for himself, but the results speak for themselves.

YOU COACHED A GOOD GAME LAST NIGHT MIKE WOODSON, LET’S KEEP IT UP!!!!!

By newkid

February 26, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

It was heartening to see such a strong 1st quarter performance by Horford at the PF slot last night. While he had a really good overall game, he was particularly effective when he could turn and face K-Mart out in space. Would love to see much more of him at the 4, and in a motion offense rather than the sort of ‘iso’ offense Woody runs. Unfortunately Al’s development is being stymied because of our need to almost always play him at the 5.

By Heat Check

February 26, 2009 10:26 AM | Link to this

Tough loss made so much easier to swallow by the presence of THE STINGER. He actually analyzes the game, describing what adjustments the Hawks could make and opposing players strategies, while Nique says “wow” or “that’s a good looking rookie” or sometimes even “wow, that’s a good looking rookie”. Glenn uses Rathbun’s comments as a way to build upon topics, while Nique uses the opportunity to say things like “yeah he did” or “yes it is” or usually “…….”. While Glenn is speaking clearly and sounding like an actual professional commentator, Nique is busy posterizing your English teacher. Nique have got to go. He’s brutal on the mic. Just awful. Poor Bob.

Mario needs more run. His energy is infectious and it’s hard to improve when you only see the floor for .6 - 1.1 seconds at a time. Hopefully the next coach sees that.

By Mark

February 26, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

Reggie and Ray are a waste. They are such HOMERS, that they are pretty much DELUSIONAL!

By Sam

February 26, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

I agree. Dominique is nearly useless as an announcer. In fact when you say - Nique have got to go - you sound just like him. I think that’s why ESPN fired Emmit.

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 11:20 AM | Link to this

You know what, I’m not really that worried about the hawks unless we get matched up against boston again. If we have some kind of dramatic fall the odds are we’d play Cleveland or Orlando in the first round, whom we have shown that we can compete with and beat at home or on their own courts.

By RedTailHawk

February 26, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

Bravesfan79 I have followed these blogs for a long time. YOU are one of the most racist people on here. You are a very biter and ignorant person. Get some help son. But if you re so depressed that u want to end it, we wont mind. Or, the easy way out would be to say that crap to CB’s face. LOL. You got crazy internet heart…LOL

By Tron

February 26, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

Is it me or should Al Horford get more shots every game? Instead of Josh Smith

By Dominique Wilkens

February 26, 2009 11:58 AM | Link to this

That…was a heat check!

By I MUS WRITE

February 26, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

Anonymous-from the last blog…..i couldnt agree more- Js doesnt really fit what X wants to do -he is a horrible jump shooter…..

We could be set with Marvin at SF /Horford at PF and a Center ????

package JS/ Acie for a nice big like Bogut/Kaman…… dont know if we can get bogut but he’s a nice peice when he’s healthy.

By tyger

February 26, 2009 12:12 PM | Link to this

Big Pass Joe

Once again, our All-star, our money guy defers with the game on the line. Would Kobe, Lebron or DWade passed up a game winner? Where are his nutts?

What more do you want?

Your All-star in the open court with 4.5 seconds oeft going hard to the rim. You score, miss, get fouled or blocked, you dont pass!!! Jump hook, finger roll, floater…what kinda scorer are you????

By tyger

February 26, 2009 12:15 PM | Link to this

Heat Check Wrong

Fans want to hear from Dominique - the best player in franchise history. Glenn is all the things you say, but Glenn isnt Dominique.

By Willie Coyote

February 26, 2009 12:17 PM | Link to this

We don’t need to get rid of Josh, we just need him to realize that this team is better when he doesn’t try so hard to be a scorer. If he played more like Chills used to when he scored his points on put-backs, flashes in the lane, etc. then he’d ok. He has the ability to do some limited post up stuff that Chills couldn’t do also.

We also need our bench guys (Acie, Solo, Morris, West) to be allowed to play and to be effective when they get in there. Them not playing is not all on Woody for sure. I wish Mario would be a guy who could hit his open jumpers and free throws for this team. He will stick around a long time in this league if he adds that to the incredible defensive energy he brings.

By Ben

February 26, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

i don’t see how people think last night’s loss will cause the hawks to go on a run. is it because we absolutely stink on the road and are about to play home games? face the facts people—we cannot beat any good teams on the road and would’ve lost at SAC if Salmons and Miller hadn’t been traded the day before. Right now, the only teams in the East we can beat in a playoff series are Miami (probably would lose), Milwaukee (who has 2 stars out), and Detroit, who probably would beat us too. Trade Smoove this offseason and get a real big

By John

February 26, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

Marvin needs to be our second option. He has the most complete offensive game aside from JJ and Bibby. He is a scorer because he can shoot, drive, and get to the line where he knocks his free throws down.

By Ben

February 26, 2009 12:32 PM | Link to this

sorry I meant the only teams in the east PLAYOFFS right now. i hope marv doesn’t go back to sleep after last night’s game

By Johnor

February 26, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

Joe has taken huge shots for the Hawks over the years. He made a good play last night. Flip just missed the shot. JJ made big shots all night. Did you see the threes he was hitting. Those were huge shots. He likely would have gotten swatted with Anderson and Martin hanging right there with him. The Hawks will pull it together. Once again, Atlanta fans are awful. People were talking better about the team last year when we finished five games under .500 and now we are still 7 games over. People just like to complain. Are people serious about trading JJ. What do you think? We can trade JJ for Dalembert, Tyson Chandler, or Bogut and we will be a championship caliber team because we have a legitimate center? Get real. JJ is a three time all-star and is entering the prime of his career. Go Hawks!!!

By Heat Check

February 26, 2009 12:41 PM | Link to this

Tyger, then you’ll be happy to hear that prelimary talks have begun with Dikembe Mutumbo to have him replace Bob Rathbun as the PBP man next season. Sure, he sounds like he just put 3 jawbreakers in his mouth, but boy could he block some shots!

Nique got plenty of screen time to pacify any old skool fans when he was in the booth with Jurenovich. This is overkill. How about they replace him and just put Nique’s headshot in the corner of the screen or something? Win/Win.

By JM

February 26, 2009 12:50 PM | Link to this

All this Josh hating is crazy. The kid is one of the best players on the team and one the better all around talents in the league. To say we should move Smoove because Marvin had a good game is stupid. Marvin had a good game when Joe was out too, does that mean move Joe? No. It means Marvin can step up when give a chance. It means we have more talent than is shown on any given night.

The problem, if there is one, is that the offense to often gets bogged down. Mostly with guard play, but occassionally with forced post-ups with Al and Josh. The solution, run more, pass more and use less clock. That way all would get more touches and hopefully more points.

Finally, good to see Mario get some time. He’s like the energizer bunny out there, but I hope next time he drives the ball when he gets touches (nobody was guarding him last night).

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 1:26 PM | Link to this

look, seriously. GIVE MARVIN MORE RESPECT in the offense. Run more plays through him. Get his confidence up. Get it in his head that he CAN and SHOULD be a go to guy and make him think he SHOULD,CAN and WILL perform.

Because, call me crazy, but eventually I think he can be equal or MORE effective than Joe Johnson.

He can shoot, he’s long and UNLIKE JOE, he goes to the hole STRONGER.

With a little bit more confidence, set plays and polishing of ball handling and moves. Marvin Can be very dangerous.

Also, if he keeps up his same style of play as he has shown when people get hurt, teams might not be so quick to double up on joe knowing that Marvin is on the loose too.

I’d much rather see Marvin taking someone off the first step and shooting jumpers….than Josh trying to beat someone off the dribble and take his slow, sluggish jumper.

By doc

February 26, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

dan as usual i will be there and sunday.

By MAC-TOWN

February 26, 2009 1:36 PM | Link to this

JM, I think it’s MORE than fair to say Josh Smith is one of the better ATHLETES in the league, but I CANNOT say he is one of the better TALENTS in the league. He can’t shoot jumpers, he can’t shoot free throws, he can’t dribble, his basketball IQ is low and he doesnt exactly have a killer post up game. Accept for when it comes to incredible athleticism for dunking and blocking shots, the guy isnt that special. I’m not saying this is true of you, but I believe several people over hype him becaue of his athleticism and the incredible dunks/blocks…which are very much outweighed by his LIABILITIES such as the ones I listed above, in my opinion.

Then, you have to consider that with the offense woodson runs, which is basically the love for guys who can hit outside jumpers. Josh is best for an up tempo, high flying game in which Woodson just doesnt run. As long as woodson is here and maintains his ways, Josh Smith is “wasted athleticism” offensively.

By JM

February 26, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

Mac-Town: I can agree with your second paragraph as it relates to everyone BK picked, not including Joe. But beside the dribble, I cannot agree with your first statement. Josh can make jumpers if they are inside the 3 on a regular basis for a PF/SF. The free throws are terrible, but that is a new thing, which is correctable. He post-up game is getting better every year (I mean the kid is working with the Dream). And for anyone to say a player has a “low basketball IQ” is beyond me. Unless you have coached him or know him personally, you can’t make that assumption. All I read and hear about Josh is that he puts the work in and tries to get better at his craft. Making bad decessions does not egual having a low BB IQ. Take football, would you say Farve had a low football IQ because he was prone to the stupid INT. Or was the guy just trying to make a play for his team.

Anyway, the team is built to run, so we won’t see the full potential of any of the players until we do more of it.

By Ben

February 26, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

it seems the hawk’s pregame preparation consists of woodson telling his team that if they can beat boston, they can beat anybody. the guys then listen to their headphones and sleepwalk through 3 quarters till they realize they’re down 30 on the road

By Flappin" Hawk

February 26, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

Comin’ back home…thank God. Nice effort last night. We actually looked like a team out there. Good to see Joe getting a little fiesty lately. Blood N Guts Flip must be rubbin’ off on him.

No doubt who needs to be the 2nd or 3rd option to score, and who needs to be dropped down to 5th option to score(Josh Smith). Josh needs to be a rebounder 1st, shot blocker second, put back artist 3rd…everything else needs serious work.

Absolutely have to run more plays for Horford to shoot his 10-15 ft jumper.

Miami’s Gonna Get Crushed, Baby!

By I MUS WRITE

February 26, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

JM -Come On …….. Josh has been working out in Houston the last 3 years but looks the same as years past, I’ll say that his passing is definitely better,but his shot stinks….Im holding my breath everytime he shoots…….. Post game might be a little better, but how often does he post up-twice a game ….If you are a better post player than jump shooter and you continue to fire away what good is that for the team…..The guy just doesnt seem to fit -he is not a scorer or a jump shooter for that matter.

Coach X likes gunners -Mehmet Okur would fit nicely here-

Smoove needs to be in PHX or New Orleans where they have solid PG’s who know how to get the best out of a high flyer. How much better would Smoove be with C.Paul, just look what he did for T chandler-he was on his way out labaled a bust by Chicago now look at him………………………………….

I like bibby and he has nice passing ablilty but he’s more concerned with getting his shot ( contract year)

Some of us sleep on Marvin but his offensive abilities are far better that Smoove -the problem is he’s not agressive all the time……….Thats becuz they dont really run plays for him -Its hard to be agressive when you have a backcourt that doesnt care to get the ball inside ….JJ,Bibb,Flip are all gunners….

Marvin seems to be a 4th option on Offense which is rediculous to me …Given shots he’s proven that he can give us 20-30 points

Can we send Ac to the D league…..air balln 8 ft jumpers huh? ………….I now see y Coach X doesnt play him-Even tho flip turns ther ball over-he is waaaaaaaay better than Mr. Law……

By Melvin

February 26, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks had Chauncey Billups, they would be a 40 win team right now. Now that’s one guy who I believe would be able to thrive in Woody’s system (whatever that is) b/c he mixed up his drives and outside shots. Also, he knows how to control the tempo and direct the offense….

By Astro Joe

February 26, 2009 3:05 PM | Link to this

Can we keep Mike Glenn? Please>

And what happened to the Maryland trial coverage?

By Dan

February 26, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

Ben

I know there are no moral victories in pro sports, but can’t the Hawks take some solance in last night’s game. They were down two starters. Although, one of them was Josh Smith. The Hawks may be better off without him, unless he decides to find the time to pull his head out of his ars.

F*!!! Flip makes that shot, and my day is just a tad better. That was such a tough loss….

By JM

February 26, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

You guys are killing me! LOL! Last year how many were calling Marvin a bust. Dude has a few good games and now Josh is irrelavent. And the fact that you admit Josh would do better with a true dishing PG says a lot. And yeah he looks much better in the post and yes he ONLY gets 2-3 touches down there, who should take the blame for that. Your boy shoots many of the j’s because he gets the ball passed to him with no time on the clock because your other boy dribbled out the clock. Lets be real people. Josh is not the problem. Before this road trip when he was putting up good numbers, there was no problem.

The real problem is on the sideline with his arms crossed. The core is good. Probably better than we know. The system and reliance on 1 player are the problems.

By Ken Strickland

February 26, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

The only problem with Smoove is he was forced to develop under a HC that doesn’t believe in devoting the time and energy to develop young players. He also believes that veterans should be given carte blanc. Therefore, as a young inexperienced player, Smoove was allowed to develop bad habits, and as a 5yr vet, he’s given the freedom to commit those bad habits without question.

The question is, do you complain about the symptoms or the cause of the symptoms. If the SAASG intends to keep Woodson as the HC, they need to realize Horford is better suited for his perferred style of play. Smoove’s postup moves, outside shot, and overall gm, just aren’t polished enough for him to be consistent under Woodson. They need to realize Horford is better suited to play the 4 in his preferred style of play.

Trading Smoove, Acie(he’s never going to get a fair shake under Woodson) and maybe a pick, could possibly get us a shot at the BIG we need to make Woodson’s OFF/DEF work. The truth is, we’ll never be a championship calibur team with Woodson as our HC, because he doesn’t have championship calibur coaching ability.

By jhan

February 26, 2009 4:15 PM | Link to this

I think both Josh Smith & Marvin Williams will make fine SF’s in this league - once they play for different teams.

Tonights game shows me that with the addition of a true center, PF - Al, SF - Marvin/Josh, this team will do just fine without Bibby.

I would try & package Marvin/Josh with a pick to get a real center or PG. I would not resign Bibby. Use his money to land either the Center/PG free agent.

I think this team would be much better & better equipped for the future. I don’t believe you can win in this league running your offense through jumpshooters like Bibby/Joe. You have to have a consistent interior presence.

By ray

February 26, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Homers? LOL! I think you meant fans, and you’d be correct, that is what Reggie, myself, and most people here are.

I’d call you an idiot but the Idiots of America Association would sue me for defamation of character…..

By I MUS WRITE

February 26, 2009 6:27 PM | Link to this

Jhan ….just so im clear you want to trade Josh and Marvin for a center, and alow bibby to walk…………………………

Sumone take his key board please…..

Jm - people were calling marvin a bust becuz he was playing like a candy azz. last year.. but i will give credit where its due -he is much improved this year, The guy worked his tail off this summer and it shows……….

If he had showed up this year losing the ball on every drive, or going 10% form 3 ….he would have got the bizzinezz all over again.

JM - Ac must be your favorite player….. Or maybe you really like Sheldon’s game……..*#@!%$$#@@(&&%^%$$##

By darrell starks

February 26, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Hawks will loose 5 in a row, 3 down 2 to go.GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By JM

February 26, 2009 8:20 PM | Link to this

I.Mus

What are you talking ‘bout. Don’t put my name with Forehead or Acie for that matter. Since Acie hasn’t showed me anything yet. If you can see that Marvin has improved, how can you not see that Josh has too. I mean are ya’ll really watching these games. Damn. People want to put the blame on one person and all I’m saying is that you can’t do that. It’s a team game and Josh and Marvin are part of this teams future. Sheldon, give me a $&@*ing break.

By Reggie

February 26, 2009 9:53 PM | Link to this

Mark I’m sorry for being a fan. Usually when you are a fan you try to support your team and root for them and hope they play well. I don’t think I’ve ever been called a homer by a fan that liked the same team as me? Mark I was harsh at your comment earlier because it made no sense at all. MannyT great post earlier. I’ve been saying for a while that Marvin can put up 20 a night if he takes enough shots too. He has a pretty complete game but he just doesn’t have the confidence to shoot enough. Josh is still a work in progress but there is no reason at all to give up on him. Also everyone is acting like he was just a huge player coming into the draft and he was supposed to be a superstar but he was only the 17th pick.

By jhan

February 26, 2009 10:11 PM | Link to this

I advocate trading Josh OR Marvin with a pick if needed to get a quality center or PG.

Then taking Bibbys salary slot & signing whatever you needed (Center or PG) along with resigning Marvin if thats who we keep.

If we keep Josh then he’s already signed & you can find some quality bench players.

I’m talking about making room for Marvin or Josh to play, trading them both would defeat the point. Unless you can trade them for Lebron!!!

By Reggie

February 26, 2009 10:31 PM | Link to this

jhan There would be no reason to let Bibby walk to get another pg. If he is up to Bibby’s quality than there probably wouldn’t be enough money to get one. Bibby is a fine PG in this league and it would be stupid to let him go if we KNOW there is one as good as him available for a fair price which likely won’t happen. Bibby doesn’t fit in our system “if we have one” great but he he is still pretty good. Also we shouldn’t trade JS or Marvin just yet because if we do, in a few years we will be crying about how stupid of a trade it was. Horford can hold his own at center I think but what we need is a real big man to be able to come off the bench to assist Al at holding the DH, YAO, SHAQ, PAU, Big men in the league.

By ray

February 26, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this

Good lord. I’m disappointed too, but I’m not looking for these guys to lose games…evidently some people are.

It would be great for our guys to show out well in these next two games. Great for them, and great for us, their fans. Not only does it instill confidence in the team, but this is one of the best times of the year to get those victories. Do it early in the season, and nobody takes you seriously. Do it late in the season, and you’re truly serving notice: “We’re here, and we’re not a flash in the pan.”

I’ll agree with anybody that this was NOT a good road trip. I feel like we should have gone 2-3 at worst. Well now it’s time to defend the homestead against all comers.

By ray

February 26, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

Reggie,

See my 4:21 p.m. post…

And players cannot be fairly judged on where they are drafted. That’s on whoever picks them.

Jhan,

Funny that we’ve come full circle to that, huh? You know, the need to choose between Josh and Marvin…

All I can say is that prior to this year, the choice seemed obvious to me. And I was clearly in the wrong. This year, Marvin has shown himself to be fully capable (when given the opportunity) of producing better than “also-ran” results at the 3 spot.

By Reggie

February 26, 2009 10:51 PM | Link to this

Ray Yeah not sure what Marks point was on that one. That is true but it seemed like he got more hype than most people do at the 17 spot. I know he has great potential and talent but some people seem to have expectations that are higher than they probably should be. He has raw talent but he just doesn’t have the fundamentals down or the basketball I.Q. Right now I would have to choose Marvin to keep because he has a much more all around game and definitely more polished but we shouldn’t be trading them anytime soon.

By Reggie

February 26, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

CP I never said Mo Evans always plays great defense but to call him out last night when the entire night he played tough aggressive defense and cause many tough shots and really disrupted the offense was not called for. Also J.R. Smith shot mostly 3 pointers and I really don’t recall him driving repeatedly. Mo probably was one of the main reasons we were even in that game. All you had to even do was listen if you couldn’t really see the good D because Stinger was complimenting him the entire 4th quarter about the defense. Mo is not an incredible defensive player usually but he also isn’t as bad as you claimed but you could have at least appreciated the hard effort last night on D and how well he got us back into that game.

By TheHawksFan

February 26, 2009 11:01 PM | Link to this

Down 2 starters on the road and we lose at the Buzzer. Not too bad IMO. We get everybody back healthy and strong this is still a good team. It looked like Joe is coming out his funk finally. He hit a couple of those lonnnnnng 3’s last night. Josh is love/hate no doubt. But he is still one of the best players on this team when he is on his game. Bibby has said many times win 1 lose 1 basketball is the way to handle a 82 game season. That said he should be on FIRE Friday night. My thinking of the end of the season goes down to Detriot imploding Magic losing the edge with Nelson out Lebron wearing down{he limped off the floor in a 20 point loss tonight) Boston just stupid for signing Starbury (mixing cool aid with champagne). That leaves My Beloved HAWKS Babyyyy!!! We are going to take it the house. I cant wait till the Playoff start. GOOOOOO HAWKKSSS!!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 26, 2009 11:12 PM | Link to this

“Tyger, then you’ll be happy to hear that prelimary talks have begun with Dikembe Mutumbo to have him replace Bob Rathbun as the PBP man next season.”

In all seriousness, Mutombo as a play by play man would be the greatest thing to ever happen in the history of mankind.

By BravesFan79

February 26, 2009 11:18 PM | Link to this

you know black culture is f*^d up when you have to defend a scumbag like Barkley because you blindly look up to them. No wonder todays blacks have little sense of family values!

yall will defend…even celebrate murderers, rapist, and guys that constantly commit adultery….as long as their the same color huh? way to teach your kids a good example!

and for the record… i could be white, asian, indian or mexican. Whats it matter? they all dont trust black males the same because of your worthless violent culture that you even celebrate in award shows. In fact the mexican mafia has more hatred for yall than any white groups ever had!

Sorry i cant be another white-guilt ridden liberal to please ya…….. when blacks start getting charged with “hate crimes” in the US for all their attacks on whites/mexicans, then progress will be made towards everyone being equal !

Political Correctness is killing this country… just like its overtaken Europe. Anyone who dare speak the truth is labeled a “uncle tom”, or a “racist” i am neither

By niremetal

February 27, 2009 1:03 AM | Link to this

Ray,

I alluded to this briefly last night…in this economy, teams aren’t gonna be buyers. I actually would like to see us trade Smoove in exchange for a big, serviceable center. But it would probably have to be someone with an undesirable contract, or someone we could take along with said undesirable contract. My ideal would be to land someone like Przybilla or Diop, but I can’t see a way to make the numbers work in a way that would make the trade sensible for the other team.

The only teams I could see wanting to make a move to get him would be Phoenix (looking to retool), Golden State (coach who likes an uptempo game), or New York (same), but they don’t have anyone that fits the bill for us (I’m assuming Golden State wouldn’t give up Biedrins for anything, and that Phoenix wouldn’t give up Amare unless they got back Horford, and I doubt Sund would make that deal). So I think that we’re “stuck” with Smoove for at least a year or two. And that does make it damned hard to keep Marvin unless the owners are willing to hit the luxury tax in this economy. That’s exactly why I’ve been thinking more and more about the scary possibility of him jumping ship and becoming an 18/8 guy next year…

By MAC-TOWN

February 27, 2009 3:50 AM | Link to this

BravesFan79, you are racist. I can tell this very simple. Any sane person knows people should be judged as individuals and not by the color of their skin, you’re skin being one color or another does not necessarily make you anything.

Anyway, THE REASON I think you are racist is because in your outlash against blacks, you used the “mexican mafia” as an example of “yet another group of people” who hate blacks.

So my question to you would be, how in the h*ll can you have such a huge problem with blacks but yet at the same time not have one with mexicans and hispanics? Gang/Thug culture is just as much if not more prevalent within their community than it is ours (black), and for certain the transportation of drugs is more hispanic than black oriented. Again, I judge by individuals, but I dont see how you can have such a huge problem with blacks but not hispanics. That lets me know that you simply hate blacks. You must not ever go outside the statelines of Georgia if you think “hispanic culture” is so civil. MS-13, a hispanic gang, is the most dangerous gang in America according to the FBI, not black gangs like crips and bloods.

Please go to Cali, Texas, Arizona, etc. or any place with a large population % of hispanics and tell me if the problems that effect the hispanic community are not along the same lines as they are with blacks. I’m aware things arent anywhere near where they should be within my black community, but I just know you’re racist because I’ve saw guys try to pull the same stuff, but in reverse order. It’ll be some white guy usually from a place like cali lashing out against hispanics and crying about how they need to leave white and blacks alone. You know, the guys who lump all other ethnicities of people with whites, and try to make it out like they are ALL against whatever particular race that the racist is attempting to belittle.

By ray

February 27, 2009 4:32 AM | Link to this

BravesFan79,

I must have missed it. Which hate crime did Barkley commit? No please, tell us all.

Don’t forget your pointy hat when you go to the rally tonight, and remember to wear it with the eye holes in the front, or you’ll walk into that burning cross again….

By Dominique Wilkens

February 27, 2009 5:30 AM | Link to this

Now lets be reasonable, I’m sure Bravesfan79 is NOT a racist. He’s a level-headed non-racist that specializes in racist rhetoric. It makes perfect sense to me.

Heat check!

By Bravesfan79's sister

February 27, 2009 5:36 AM | Link to this

That’s the cross we got married under…our kids have webbed feet.

By darrell starks

February 27, 2009 7:40 AM | Link to this

Braves who what in the world you talk 79 you must be from the cave, man!!!!!!!!!!!!!! wake up and understand the truth before you speak on sekou BLOGGS YOU SHOULD NO BY NOW ITS OUR GOVERNMENT who put drugs in the poor community and destroyed the FAMILY STRUCTURE IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY AND ALL SO DONE DIRT ACROSS THE WORLD especially IN africa where they drained all the natural resources such as gold silver and other natural goods so WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFE BEFORE YOU SPEAK ABOUT ANOTHER RACE. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By O'brien

February 27, 2009 8:04 AM | Link to this

Early in games, Kobe will defer to his teamates and try to get them going, plus that takes pressure off him. But in the fourth quarter when the game is on the line, that’s when Kobe takes the big shots.

Hopefully Woody will run some plays through Marvin and Horford early, get them going. That opens it up for JJ. And then we need a fresh JJ in the fourth quarter so he can be our finisher.

Beat the Heat.

By dap01

February 27, 2009 8:23 AM | Link to this

Marvin was a waste of a #2 pick. But his game is improving and he does fit the needs of our team. Right now, Josh seems the odd man out. We are YEARS into a rebuilding and yet we are still terrible unbalanced.

Sund will have oppotunity with tradable pieces and lots of money to play with.

I do not believe that we should tie up huge money to Bibby, he is very important to us but he is not worth major money considering his defensive and mobility issues. We need more that keeping his large salary next year. We need to continue to have a long term approach and develop a top notch player at every starting position and then keep tough (inexpensive) veterans to round out the roster.

By Astro Joe

February 27, 2009 9:13 AM | Link to this

If there is any truth that Smith is a challenging young man to coach, then simply saying “he needs a new coach” is a difficult scenario. Let’s say the Hawks would do better with someone like Flip Saunders. But would Flip be able to handle Smith? He couldn’t light a fire under the Pistons. How about Eddie Jordan? He seemed to be able to deal with Arenas’ quirky ways but would Eddie have Smith so focused on offense that he loses his ability to be a defensive game-changer (one of the few left in the league)? Avery Johnson? The Lil General doesn’t take any stuff… but he also wanted Jason Kidd to wait for a play from the bench as opposed to read the defense and use his HOF PG skills. Do we really want our team to stop at the half-court line and wait for instructions from the bench? Jeff Van Gundy? Has he discovered that there is an offensive side of the game yet? Smith’s defense would excel under Van Gundy but would any free agent want to play for a team scoring 85 points a game? Mo Cheeks? A hard read for me. He appears to be a players’ coach despite being a hard-nosed player. He has been fired twice despite taking middling teams to relative success.

Bottom line question is if Smith has presented challenges for someone who appears to be in the “old school” coach category, then would he perform better for a hand’s off “players coach” or would he run through him? Ultimately, the answer could be to both replace Woody AND Smith.

By Mark

February 27, 2009 9:15 AM | Link to this

Ray and Reggie you kill me with this Josh has great potential crap. Maybe you all should stop talking about what he could be, and instead talk about what he is. He has been in the league long enough. He was a disgrace on this last roadtrip. With all of his athleticism, he can’t even rebound. That is terrible. We won’t talk about his 0 for 6 ft shooting in he 1st quarter of the Utah game. I don’t care when we picked him. We ar NOW paying him like he is an allstar. Yet you guys want to talk about his great potential. Ray is just in love with him.

Ray that idiots of america comment was quite lame. Unfortunately, that is probably all you could think up.

But as I told you a few weeks ago, I will let you guys have it. Josh is the best player since Bill Russell. I say this because of his GREAT REBOUNDING!! How many rebounds did he have against the LAKERS RAY? Didn’t he man handle LAMAR ODOM RAY?

By I MUS WRITE

February 27, 2009 9:25 AM | Link to this

Yeah- RAY Thanx for taking care of that…….. Its really hard for me to ignore sumone making stupid/racist remarks….I’ll let u handle it since you probably have sum type of psychological training.

Dam shame….This man gets raped in prison by sum Mexicans and now he hates all blacks because no body would help him behind the walls.

Braves 79 …..Were u really washing underwear and braiding hair in prison. For you to spit that BS -you had to have been sum bodys bytch, I guess next time you will destroy the child porn before the FEDS come to your home………..

I sure would like to meet you face to face !!!!

By hawkeye

February 27, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

I prefer making marvin our 1st option on offense then JJ 2nd and bibby 3rd. He played well when JJ was injured then suddenly just disappeared when JJ returned. Marvin proved that he can be a reliable player when given the opportunity to touch the ball and score. All he needs is a chance. It seems that JJ’s presence keeps marvin from building his confidence. If marvin proves that he can be a great threat on offense the opposing team might consider double teaming him which might take the pressure off JJ and bibby. Keeping them from taking bad shots.

By MAC-TOWN

February 27, 2009 1:19 PM | Link to this

To be honest…I know their are problems in theblack community, but I truly couldnt have been able to call bravesfan a racist if it wasnt for tat one funny thing he did. When he got into all that “us whites and mexicans ….blah blah…against blacks”

I mean, how in the world can he say that when mexicans face the same problems as us, poverty, crimes, gangs, etc.

If he has such a problem with blacks then he’d also have it with mexicans..for the SAME REASONS.

Since he SINGLED out us blacks, It’s obvious he is racist towards us.

By Ken Strickland

February 27, 2009 2:56 PM | Link to this

Did you read that racist garbage posted by this clown calling him/herself BRAVESFAN79? WOW, it looks like some that smelly garbage from the Falcons garbage wagon fell off the truck and landed on our blog. Has anyone else noticed how these race baiting clowns seem to always identify with either the Braves of the Falcons?

I’m really looking forward to tonights gm. It appears we’ll be at full strength. The question is, will our return to full strength be a signal to Woodson to forget what worked in our last gm and go back to his regular routine? He needs to understand that the same uptempo OFF and pressure DEF, that allowed us to overcome that deficit and give us a last shot chance to win, will also help us create a big lead of our own.

By Nate ArchiBALL

February 27, 2009 6:26 PM | Link to this

Marvin had a pretty good game going inside against the Nuggets but I noticed that no one mentioned the Nuggets were playing without Nene their starting center, who while not a great shot blocker does take up space in the middle. Just thought I would point that out……..