Hawks

By I MUS WRITE

February 27, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this

ITz time to man up and play sum ball ….grab your cahones and go all out ….Did we really play better without Smoove in the line up…………………………………………….

ACIE LAW to the Aneheim Arsenal….

By Hawk73

February 27, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

I am certainly happy that the Hawks are in 4th place, but let’s look at how strong the East is…there are ONLY 5 teams above .500 with Miami 1.5 games behind us. They would be the 10th place team in the West and are clearly not good enough to COMPETE against those teams. I realize that memebership has it’s priviledges (Eastern Conference) but are any of you REALLY excited about the playoff prospects of our Hawks? They lack the desire and enthusiasm to play/get better. They seem disgustly happy to settle for 4th place (even though 3rd is almost impossible) and eek there way into post season. I believe they are still stuck on sneaking into the 8th spot from last year and are living off the Boston series. I hope that I am wrong, but I only want them to play with PASSION and FIRE (Win or lose).

By Art Vandelay

February 27, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

When are we going to get some more info on Josh Smith’s “family situation?” Not trying to be nosy, but it seems a bit odd that he’d have to bolt so suddenly after he’s been struggling with virtually every aspect of his game and had a meltdown against the Jazz. Sekou, Is there more to this than we’re hearing?

By JimmyB

February 27, 2009 11:03 AM | Link to this

What happened to the coverage of the Atlanta Spirit trial? Why no articles this week after daily articles last week?

By Rod from College Park

February 27, 2009 11:10 AM | Link to this

Art Vandelay,

Smooth’s family situation was that he has a little one on the way. Nothing more. Family comes first.

By PD

February 27, 2009 11:28 AM | Link to this

GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!

By ken

February 27, 2009 11:38 AM | Link to this

The most fustrating thing about the Hawks orgaization is that they are not trying to address the obvious needs of this team while the teams with championship aspirations are such as Boston, Lakers, even Orlando seem to find ways to get players they need now instead of standing pat.Why didn’t the Hawks name not even come up in the discussions of Stephon Marberry or Mikki Moore? Another key is that coach Woodson has not been able to clearly develop a team identity on both sides of the ball and has also failed to develop his bench players . Its one and done in the playoffs and I think the organization is content with that for this year. Too bad!

By mrprozach

February 27, 2009 11:59 AM | Link to this

Sekou Have you seen the new article that Bill Simmons has up at ESPN on the economy of the NBA? [(http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/090227)] I would be really interested to see what your sources are saying about a possible lockout and/or a teams moving cities, The Hawks are listed as a team that has the characteristics needed for team movement.

By ant banks

February 27, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

the hawks will relinguish their 4th seed to miami by the end of next week. hawks will remain in 5th spot for the remainder of the season. we will meet miami in the 1st rnd.

i think that we have the homecourt advantage over miami. we should win that series and face clev in the 2nd round.

By Art Vandelay

February 27, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Rod. I must have missed where that was mentioned. Congratulations to Josh — maybe having a child will help him gain some perspective on life and stop complaining so much. The only thing keeping him from being a superstar is his approach.

By Wink from Lithonia

February 27, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

Yes the pack has caught up! I have been having an email dialogue with someone at the following email address: Hawks.FanMail@atlantaspirit.com

They seem to be pretty impressed with the Hawks current standing as the 4th seed. Appears the glass is half full with atlanta spirit.

I was told they wanted to go .500 on the road & win 25 home games, which would give them 45 wins. My responder stated that if they go play 5.500 the rest of the season they would finish at 44 wins. He/she stated they would take that any day of the week.

Numbers are a beautiful thing, because they can be spent either way. As for going .500 on the road that not going to happen this year. They way they have been playing the Home Court does not guarantee they will go .500 the rest of the season. I get the feeling we are watching two different teams performing.

I am not sure 44 wins will keep them in the 4th spot in the East, again based on their performance, and the rest of the pack fast approaching. They don appear to be ready for the playoffs, whether they are the 4th seed or 8th seed.

My gut feeling is they would be satisfied with the win total going from 37 to 44 and just making the playoffs. If that is the case Woodson would be back again next year, because the team would have increased their win total incrementally again. I don’t believe that the Lakers, Jazz, Spurs, Suns etc would consider 44 win a goal, or being successful.

The product on the floor is what it is. The growth of that product does not have high priority unless we sink in the standing & miss the playoffs all together!!

By Ariose

February 27, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

Five in a Row….i’m calling it…….

~Sir links A Lot~

By MAC-TOWN

February 27, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

Hawk73,

I said it once before and I will say it again. I actually feel good regardless of where we finish as long as it isnt against boston, because we have shown we can compete and beat orlando and cleveland at home and on the road. We usually play tough close games with them. I’m not sold on the fact that those 2 teams will KILL us, and of course we should be able to beat the teams below us now.

Either way, I believe we are in for some or “a” (hopefully not “a”) exciting playoff series

lol I dont care if its the 76ers,Heat,Piston,Cavs, Or Magic

I dont see us WINNING any of them in anything less than 6 or 7 games.

Despite last season’s 7 game series…..Boston in the first round is the only scenario I truly fear.

By jhan

February 27, 2009 1:39 PM | Link to this

Hawk73 - if 3rd place is impossible then 4th sounds great to me.

ant banks - if we are the 5th seed then Miami will have the home court advantage.

Ariose - is that 5 wins or losses?

By Eric

February 27, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this

A FEW GROWING ISSUES I HAVE WITH THIS TEAM. FIRST, WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH JOE JOHNSON??? THAT PLAY THE OTHER NIGHT IN DENVER WAS AWFUL, TAKE THE SHOT JOE!!! JOHNSON HASN’T BEEN PLAYING LIKE AN ALL-STAR LATELY. THEN THERE’S MARVIN WILLIAMS WHO PLAYS OUT OF HIS MIND WHEN THE TEAM IS SHORT HANDED 35 POINTS AGAINST DENVER, THEN WHEN EVERYBODY COMES BACK HE GOES INTO HIS NORMAL SHELL AND GETS BOUT 10 POINTS MAYBE 6 REBOUNDS. SHOULD WOODSON RUN THE OFFENSE THROUGH MARVIN??? I LOVE THEM, BUT THIS IS THE MOST HELTER-SKELTER TEAM I’VE EVER SEEN.

By ant banks

February 27, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

what?? jsmoove has a child on the way?? the baby is in trouble, because daddy acts very childish at times. maybe the baby will take daddy under its wing and nurture daddy to adulthood…or is that suppose to be the other way around??

By I MUS WRITE

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

DAM …… Ant -thats a little low dont you think…….. Commenting on the mans new born, Well atleast Josh is capable of financially providing for his child —-Which means - One less yung’n on public assistance sucking up my tax dollars.

I dont have kids, and i get reamed every year at tax time for it…………………..Mean while little ms.do nothing all day walks away with six stacks………… Im disgusted

Sorry for the rant yall .

By Ariose

February 27, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this

Umm….I think Boston just Solidified a 2009 Championchip. They just signed Stephon Marbury…….Lord help us all.

The Rich get richer and the poor……well, you know the rest.

DASG!!!!!!

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Barry

February 27, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

This is the time of season where basketball is “KING”. I love the position our Hawks are in even though being No.1 would be better. However, I believe our young Hawks are up to the task of “SHOCKING THE WORLD!!” again. They have a new bunch with some game players who will start getting the taste of Atlanta during a playoff drive at home. Things are heating up and I believe by the time we getting nearer to the end of the regular season, the HAWKS will be on “FIRE”. I know PHILLIPS ARENA will be jumping tonight and through the rest of the season. We can smell intense playoff competition in the air with our HAWKS running and gunning, non-stop. We, as Atlanta fans, look forward to ant team coming into “OUR HOUSE”. We will be on our best, rowdy, loud, screaming behavior. So do not be shy when you come to PHILLIPS. ITS NOW TIME FOR OUR HAWKS TO PLAY SOME REAL BASKTBALL. I SMELL IT IN THE AIR.

HEAR WE GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NOW ARE YOU READY FOR SOME BASKETBALL???!!!!!!!!!

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

This is ROUND 8 of a 12 ROUND FIGHT. WE HAVE NOT DONE “THE SHUFFLE” YET.

SEE Y’ALL AT PHILLIPS.

             "SHOCK THE WORLD!!!!!"

Ringold

By Just Dumb!

February 27, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Ant Banks you’re an idiot! Do you have a personal vendetta against Smoove cause that was a low blow? Did he hit girl or something?

F.Y.I. Josh already has a child!

By calico

February 27, 2009 2:46 PM | Link to this

lets go hawks it is time to really focus we should not loose this game tonight and we have to beat lebron sunday and Marvin if you are reading you have to play very big vs lebron we are going to need you in the next couple of weeks.

By Ariose

February 27, 2009 2:51 PM | Link to this

jhan, Wins obviously….

By Hawks73

February 27, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

I really hope our Hawks find the miracle cure for their inconsistency, but I have to be objective about their effort. It lacks a lot of spirit (no pun intended) and passion. I am very pleased with the progression in record, I just believe that this team is capable of more. I have been a lifelong fan (25 years)and want them to improve beyond the first round.

The obvious gripes I have are lack of effort (personally don’t think that the players buy into Woody) and lack of bench use. It is apparent to all of us that Woody has not properly prepared his bench players for real time action. The “real contenders” always make use of every bench asset. Our starting five is more than capable against the best in the East, it’s the lack of bench use/preparation that separates the pack.

By ant banks

February 27, 2009 3:26 PM | Link to this

i.mus i didn’t say anythin’ about his child, i was referencin’ jsmoove childish ways…i was bein’ facetious by sayin’ the child would show him how to behave.

i would never say anythin’ derogative about anyone’s child.

just dumb you are a coward, i could easily have easily hid behind a fake monicker, like you did, and made the same comment.

this is a place to express opinions, i expressed my opinions, jsmoove is too old and too paid to act*as childish as he does*.

GO HAWKS!!!

By This Gets Old

February 27, 2009 4:09 PM | Link to this

The Hawks in a way are constantly “almost there” it’s like if your hot girl wanted to surprise you and get a boob job and then came home and said “I decided to have ‘em do only one” Somethings just a bit off.

It’s hard to get excited about this team unless you’re bi-polar like they seem to be. This season was a real chance to change the way that Atlantans viewed the team.

It’s not just the series against Boston and the hot start this year that seem to have been squandered. It’s seemingly how the team views itself. Marvin has really improved this season in a lot of ways and that means that Josh and Al should really be able to operate down low. The Hawks are an athletic team but it still seems all promise and that is tiring.

It’s not losing so much as getting blown up AND out. There’s still no recognizable style that they play. I’m not discounting the fact that the record is better.

By jhan

February 27, 2009 4:11 PM | Link to this

ant - I hope you are correct! This team could use another winning streak right now. We’re 11-15 over our last 26. Despite whatever math Samuel likes to use this is not winning basketball.

By James Banks

February 27, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

A few quick thoughts:

Given the current state of affairs, I wonder how much the team misses Josh Childress on, the court and especially in the locker room.

If Michael Jordan could pass championship winning shots to Steve Kerr and John Paxson, why are people upset that Joe Johnson passed the game winning shot attempt against Denver to Flip Murray?

If defense wins championship, why is everyone so concerned about a lack of offensive firepower?

If the old saying “live by the jump shot and die by the jump shot” is true, then why is anyone surprised at the inconsistency of a team whose leading scorers (Joe Johnson, Mike Bibby and Flip Murray) rely on the jump shot?

If Mike Woodson is truly a defense-oriented coach, then why does his most enthusiastic defender (Mario West) get so little playing time?

If GM Sund has given Coach Woodson a “win or else” mandate, why is anyone surprised that the development of young talent (Law, Jones, Morris, etc) has taken a secondary position to the “use (up) your veterans” approach?

If Marvin Williams, who steps up and produces big-time whenever the major scorers (Johnson or Bibby) are unavailable yet doesn’t produce like that when they are, was drafted to replace Al Harrington, why is he not the team’s first offensive option like Harrington was? And, why does no one question Williams, Johnson, Bibby or Coach Woodson about why Williams is not a primary offensive option?

By I MUS WRITE

February 27, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this

good post JB………..

Ant itz all good- i know josh wilds out from time to time but im sure he is’nt the same way at home with his family…atleast i hope not

By anonymous

February 27, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this

Hey Imus, Acie Law to the Who???? Aneheim Arsenal? Wtf???

By Gilley

February 27, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

I haven’t been on this blog in awhile but I have been keeping up with my Hawks and they have been very inconsistent. Namely our most praised player, Joe Johnson. His demeanor and attitude is upsetting and it baffles me. He is quoted as saying,

““I’d feel pretty good,” Johnson said if someone had told him five months ago the Hawks would be 32-25 this late in the season.

Like are you serious Joe Johnson? What kind of attitude is that to have? You are lowering your expectations and not giving yourself credit enough when we all know good well the Hawks are supposed to have a good 35-38 victories based on some performances and teams they let get the best of them. Flukes and inconsistencies.

When your leader is not upset about how bad your team is playing and only looking forward to playing at home then you have a problem because you have to win on the road to become a great team and the Celtics ultimately did that in their quest to win the NBA Finals last year.

Also, Marvin Williams can be a number one option but he always falls off. He is effective because he drives and gets to the line and is a double threat from shooting and driving. Johnson is such a finesse player and great passer but doesn’t know how to exploit the double team. When he learns how to handle double teams consistently and make the other team pay we will be better

By ray

February 27, 2009 7:18 PM | Link to this

Some of y’all act like Josh Smith is making the news every week by getting in trouble. Fact is, he never gets into any legal trouble at all. What do you have against him, 5 bad games and a flagrant foul? Complaining to the refs? Yeah, I’m sure that means he will not make a good father, or that having a child will make him a better player in your eyes. Get your heads out of your anuses…

Big game tonight. Time to step up. I’m looking forward to this one.

By ray

February 27, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this

Anonymous,

That’s the Hawks’ D-League affiliate. We just sent Hunter and Gardner down there about a week ago, then called them back up. It’s not NBA level competition, but you get plenty of playing time. Sort of like scrimmaging in practice, only with guys you probably don’t know.

Gilley,

My read on this is Marvin is just fine with deferring. When Bibby, JJ, and Josh are in the game, Marvin defers to them. Define his role as more of a featured contributor/scorer, and he will no doubt blossom.

By rms

February 27, 2009 7:35 PM | Link to this

Is Sekou doing any in-game blogging? I like how he just drops a blog that pretty much tells us nothing and then dissappears. Tell me something I dont know.

By rms

February 27, 2009 7:37 PM | Link to this

Dang, Dominique will be doing color analyst. Time to put the game on mute!

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this

LETS GET…GET…GET IT!!!!

By ray

February 27, 2009 7:47 PM | Link to this

Heh. So…..Starbury went to the Celtics afterall…

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

CATCH THE BALL AL AND FINISH…!!!

By mo

February 27, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

dang did i just see mr. no defense bibby get a blocked shot, must be our night

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 7:51 PM | Link to this

I THINK JOE HAS HIS SWAG BACK…

By Sautee

February 27, 2009 8:11 PM | Link to this

I HATED those 3 point shots by Josh, but he’s hustling, rebounding and has 2 assists. And that with NO basketball I.Q.!!!!!

Musta gotten lucky. Like he does 2.5 times per game

By ray

February 27, 2009 8:12 PM | Link to this

Horford looks good. Everybody else is bombing away from the perimeter, Josh included.

We’re not going to win like this…sooner or later the other team gets hot.

By ray

February 27, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Bibby looks awful…

By ray

February 27, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this

The Heat have nothing for Horford. Spoelstra has to take a timeout and bring O’Neal back in to guard him…

Gotta love this young fella. See what happens when you involve him in the offense?

By 404atlhoops

February 27, 2009 8:34 PM | Link to this

This is an ugly game. I think the Hawks missed their chance to really build a lead with Wade on the bench with two fouls. It’s going to be a dog fight.

By ray

February 27, 2009 8:37 PM | Link to this

Josh to Horford. Love it. Horford with a double double at the half. Where’s Roll Tide Clyde?

By ray

February 27, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

404atlhoops,

True enough. Good thing Horford showed up. Otherwise, we’d be hurting worse.

Such leadership shown by Joe to end the half…yeesh..deja vu anybody.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2009 8:41 PM | Link to this

36-32 at halftime? I didn’t know the Atlanta Dream already started their season…

By Ken Strickland

February 27, 2009 8:45 PM | Link to this

I guess Woodson has answered my question about whether he’ll learn from what worked the last gm, or revert to his old habits. During the 1st half, he used a 7 man rotation. If no one gets into foul trouble, or injured, Woodson will force our key starters to log heavy mins. i GUESS IT’S TRUE THAT YOU CAN’T TEACH AN OLD DOG NEW TRICKS, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE DOG DIDN’T LEARN ANY TRICKS WHEN HE WAS YOUNG.

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 9:00 PM | Link to this

good team basketball…

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this

playing as a unit on both ends of the floor…

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this

Smith to Horford again. Love it.

By 404atlhoops

February 27, 2009 9:01 PM | Link to this

The Hawks have come out of the 2nd half ready to play. Now they need to go for the kill and build on this double digit lead.

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:03 PM | Link to this

Smith and Horford have a chemistry. This is what it takes for this team to win. Ride these two (and Marvin) until it opens things up for Bibby and JJ. How hard can this concept be?

See how easily a run initiated by our frontline guys caused Miami to go to a timeout?

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:06 PM | Link to this

LOL @ Ken….

Hey, where’s “Roll Tide” Clyde? Has ya boy Sean Williams ever had 17 and 13 in an NBA game? Looks like Horford will possibly match or outdo his 18 point, 18 rebound performance against Sacramento…against Jermaine O’Neal no less…

By mo

February 27, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this

Sick reverse jam by smoove

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:09 PM | Link to this

Holy….Did y’all see that play by Josh Smith??!!

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 9:10 PM | Link to this

props to Joe for going up… he has a lil bunny in those legs…

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:12 PM | Link to this

How about this? No 3rd quarter swoon by the Hawks.

Horford is straight killing the Heat from both ends of the floor. Wow.

By Sekou K. Smith

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

Josh Smith just made a play on a putback that I haven’t seen before. Seriously, don’t miss the highlights tonight. It was crazy.

Grind it out game going on here right now. Nothing pretty but the Hawks’ effort after halftime is what you want.

Bibby looks like he’s still suffering from that flu. He’s 0-for-7 from the floor and doesn’t really seem to have any legs on his shots. Thank goodness for Flip Murray.

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 9:18 PM | Link to this

Flip has settled into his game and role within the offense… i like what he’s been doing

By KevinA

February 27, 2009 9:19 PM | Link to this

WOW WOW Josh adds to high light reel.

By Sekou K. Smith

February 27, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

Horford is working the Heat. FEED HIM. FEED HIM!!!!!!!!!

By KevinA

February 27, 2009 9:20 PM | Link to this

Front court featured more tonight. Were winning, imagine that.

By rms

February 27, 2009 9:24 PM | Link to this

Oh crap! Its a Sekou sighting!! Where ya been dude!

By KevinA

February 27, 2009 9:28 PM | Link to this

Al is learning to be agressive. Marvin being agressive. Nice to see. Take it to the hoop boys.

By KevinA

February 27, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

For the Josh haters - he is playing whith in him self and having a good game. Good D by the front court. Sorry about all the posts. That dunk or what ever you want to call by Josh got me pumped. And what a game by Al.

By White Chocolate

February 27, 2009 9:36 PM | Link to this

i enjoyed reading the blog fellas… i luv the passion for a better team - Go Hawks!!!

gotta take my wife from Guyana to her first pro b-ball game this year - Hawks better represent!

we need to bring back the Nique and Spud Webb…. those were the days, and i think we are putting together a team that will consistently compete. i’m very interested to see what we do during the offseason.
later

By ray

February 27, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

That does it for Horford: 21 points, 20 rebounds.

Now if only we can finish this game off strong. Miami’s going to crank it up. We have to as well…

By rms

February 27, 2009 9:40 PM | Link to this

Dang, Quit dribbling the ball so much. That why you gotta rush a shot off with the clock expiring…

By bigdave

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

got a game fellas…

i was just about to say the view must be real nice down there Sekou if you know what i mean… been quiet ,but i can’t blame you…

By niremetal

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

So I’m gonna be in Atlanta for the week of the games against the Jazz (Mar 11) and Pacers (Mar 13). Anyone from the ‘liar’s table’ gonna be there? It’d be nice to put some faces to screen names…haha.

By KevinA

February 27, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

It’s so easy to get negitive with the Hawks, then they win a big one. Great fun. Game ball to Big Al.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

Nice win, but man, it would have been nice to see the Hawks take advantage of their 11 point lead at the beginning of the quarter to put the Heat away early in the 4th.

By bigdave

February 27, 2009 9:56 PM | Link to this

GREAT WIN…. EVERYONE WHO PLAYED OR WAS WELL CONTRIBUTED… MUCH BETTER EFFICIENCY ON THE OFFENSIVE END. DEFENSE WAS STELLAR… MUCH BETTER JOB HANDLING THE SCREENS FOR WADE..

By Sautee

February 27, 2009 10:03 PM | Link to this

Blasphemy, I’m sure, but we seem to go to the frontcourt more when Bibby’s out.

Doesn’t mean I don’t LOVE him, but I’m just sayin’.

Glad to see some energy on defense. We’ll need all that and more on Sunday.

By ray

February 27, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

KevinA,

Ain’t it sweet? Now if we can just convince them to run it that way consistently.

I’ll certainly take that win, no bones about it. JJ is still shooting badly, but at least he’s getting a handful of dimes each game, seeing as how we’re going without a pg lately.

Somebody sign Flip to an extension. He’s been a true boost off of the bench.

How about that game by Horford? 21 points, 22 rebounds. Nice. That even trumps his 18 point, 18 rebound performance against Sac-Town. He’s been aggressive, and when he’s gotten the ball, he has been doing good things with it.

Josh played decently tonight.

Marvin didn’t shoot well, but his level of aggression is still there, something we couldn’t get from him 90% of the time last year. I’m happy with him.

Obviously Bibby is still sick. I don’t know why Woody was trying to play him. Wait, yeah I do…

Nice win. Way to scrap for it when the shooting was off for the most part.

By ray

February 27, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

Also, good to see JJ get to the line a decent amount. That helped offset his shooting performance. He needs to find ways to continue doing this.

By Clyde

February 27, 2009 10:08 PM | Link to this

Game High In Blocks For Al Horford: 6

Game High In Blocks For Sean Williams: 8

Horford is a better offensive player but Sean Williams is better on defense.

By kirkinga

February 27, 2009 10:12 PM | Link to this

Needed win for the Hawks tonight. Despite the road trip and a less than well Bibby, the Hawks return home to expand their lead over the Heat.

Well done.

Go Hawks!!

By rms

February 27, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this

12 points 2 assists!! Come on, Stinger, Murray is not a point guard!

By Samuel

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

Isn’t Sean Williams in the D-League? Jhan, 2.5,3.5, and 4.5. How you like that math?

Good game all around tonight. Al really showed that he’s ready for more touches.

Good game by Josh tonight. I really liked how the fans got on him when he took bad shots. It worked. He did what he’s supposed to do. Finish around the basket and play good defense.

Miami did not impress me. JO is still slow and gimpy. He won’t get any better. His knees usually don’t hold up for more than a couple of weeks at a time. Their best bet is to ride Wade and Beasley. Either way, I don’t believe they have enough players to go on any long winning streak. Same with Detroit. Philly may be our challenge down the streatch.

Hopefully, we have gotten our second wind. Joe looked fresh tonight. Good win.

Woody=COY

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2009 10:38 PM | Link to this

Game high in blocks for Shawn Bradley: 13

Game high in blocks for Dikembe Mutombo: 12

Shawn Bradley is a better defensive player than Dikembe Mutombo.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

Also, a really insightful and interesting column by Bill Simmons about the NBA’s economic climate today. I think we can officially stop whining about the DASG, because it looks like every NBA team is suffering just as bad in the accounting books at this point.

By ray

February 27, 2009 10:43 PM | Link to this

Blocks do not win a game. Nor do they make you a superior defender overall.

By the way, let’s complete the stat story, since game/career highs came up:

Career high in points for Horford:27 Career high in points for Williams:22 Career high in rebounds for Horford:22 Career high in rebounds for Williams:12 Career high in assists for Horford:6 Career high in assists for Williams:3 Career high in steals for Horford:5 Career high in steals for Williams:3

Horford: Starts for his team, averages 10.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 2.9 fouls per game.

Williams: Comes off the bench for 17 minutes a game for his team. Averages 5.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and 2.6 fouls per game.

Bottom Line: Horford is better in every single category except blocks. You can have that measley 2 more blocks on the career high. Williams isn’t good enough to start for his own team. Wonder why? Call me when he’s good enough to start. Then we’ll talk. Until then, I’ll take Horford.

By Big Ump

February 27, 2009 10:46 PM | Link to this

Ray

I like how HC let the Josh Haters know that Josh hadn’t done anything wrong and he deserve his privacy like anyone else. Way to defend your players HC

By richbrave

February 27, 2009 10:48 PM | Link to this

Oops. O.K., NOW 33 wins.

doc:

Wifey is going to NYC on a UNIVERSITY of RICHMOND trip sometime next month. I’m hoping the timing is good and I might slip down to ATLANTA for a game at PHILLIPS. Will keep you posted. BTW thought you’d appreciate this WIZARDS post I just put up.

Missed the game. Got back just as COMCAST Sportsnite aired. O.K. so I missed the President and an inspired performance by the local heroes. But I got to see “SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE” AND make my wife happy. So an even trade in my book.

By richbrave

February 27, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

AND my thinking on recent REDSKIN moves.

JOE:

Listen up to bugkiller. He’s got the knows. I’ll repost my thinking on DANNY BOY and his bag-man VINNIE.

DAN SNYDER collects FA’s like a night-time thief in OCALA stealing grapefruits from a farmer’s grove. While the TITANS and the new regime in ATLANTA shun these misanthropes, UNCLE DANNY provides them with a collective home, and the playdough to spend on shrinks who attempt to make them less sociopathic. Meanwhile, the results show on the field. You have nothing to fear from the REDSKINS, FALCONS fans. They will continue to be mediocre whilst you ascend the NFL’s hierarchy of teams headed toward a SUPER BOWL. Roll on.

By richbrave

February 27, 2009 10:55 PM | Link to this

Oh and doc:

Did you see the BRAVES on ESPN. Between the hyperbole spewing from the announcers booth, they looked pretty good I think. Still hoping to make a game in ATLANTA.

By doc

February 27, 2009 10:58 PM | Link to this

co sign samuel except karl/mcmillan/pops for coy. a coy would be using a different ofense that moved the ball more into horford’s hands.

when the crowd jumped josh i am not sure it was deserved as there were 4 seconds left on the shpt clock and two players and already given up open looks for some odd reason including joe ad marvin.

get to measure up against one of the best on sunday, no way this team should end up lower than fourth place. if miami is the next in line this division is very weak, sadly weak.

By ray

February 27, 2009 10:59 PM | Link to this

Big Ump,

I agree. I have to give it up to Woody on that. He definitely did the right thing there. Classy…

RichBrave,

You know the deal. Even trades is what it’s all about.

By the way, your boys didn’t look bad at all tonight. McGee needs more PT, look what he did in just 10 minutes. Young and McGuire looked good, too.

For the Bulls, the starting lineup played like crap, though Noah was hustling. Miller and Salmons looked real good.

Still, the Wiz won handily..

By ray

February 27, 2009 11:02 PM | Link to this

LOL @ Najeh. Good point.

Also, good article by Simmons. NBA decided to lend between $13 and $20 mil to each of 12 NBA teams. What you want to bet the ASG is on that docket? Still, I’ve learned a few things that lead me to believe that they aren’t as broke as we think.

Whatever, as long as they can keep the ball rolling. Mark my words, this summer will be bigger than last, and some serious changes are coming.

By doc

February 27, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

richie keep up with the plan and we can get together. give me a litt;e advance as i will be able to share some tix or get some more. whatever you do dont buy them first without touching base here dude.

matt alias nire. i’ll be there catch you at one or both.

By Najeh Davenpoop

February 27, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

Richbrave, although I have to agree that a lot of the Redskins’ free agent pickups haven’t worked out, I couldn’t disagree more on Haynesworth. He was clearly the best defensive lineman I saw all season. Having impact players in the middle of your defense like him on the D-line and LaRon Landry in the secondary has an effect on the rest of the D. Haynesworth may be an azzhole for stomping on Andre Gurode’s head but he is the kind of player that can single-handedly make an defense better.

By richbrave

February 27, 2009 11:26 PM | Link to this

ND:

Well here’s hoping you’re right and he stays healthy, ‘cause DS just invested a huge chunk of the REDSKINS’ future in him. It worries me because I’ve seen far too many of these deals backfire on the ‘SKINS. MeANGELO as an example. 54 million over 5. Hope he doesn’t revert to his ATLANTA style.

By cp

February 28, 2009 12:12 AM | Link to this

Good win. We really needed that one. Horford was beasting out there. If Bibby is still sick then we need to let him rest..

By Ben

February 28, 2009 1:02 AM | Link to this

**when do we hear the ASG ruling? They said by the end of this week, so should be around now…. tonight we saw a legit team. we need to compete on the road with this effort. you could tell from the beginning that Horford came to ball and that the guys seemed to have treated the game with a playoff-like intensity.

bottom line is: we need to drive the ball to the hoop. we really were feeding duck the ball and he was helping generate the offense. this team is legit if we play like this, and this was WITHOUT Bibby. we need to stay healthy, drive the ball to the hoop, and treat every road game as a must-win. cleveland game on Sunday should be very close. hopefully we can pull it out (no homo**

By ray

February 28, 2009 1:41 AM | Link to this

Ben,

True that. Been saying it all season: run the ball through the post…

By jhan

February 28, 2009 1:56 AM | Link to this

Samuel - That math I like a lot!

If we keep utilizing our forwards the math should get even better.

By uga-brave

February 28, 2009 3:38 AM | Link to this

when was the last time j-smove had 20 rebounds and twenty points?

it is called desire.

horford is a player, j-smove is a loafer.

isolate him, watch him.

he plays on his heels.

he does not deny the ball. he only wants to block shots.

he does not deny the ball in the post. he is usually beat.

all he wants to do defensively is block shots.

great defenders never let their opponents get the ball on the blocks.

we signed the wrong josh.

this team would be better if we still had josh childress.

By Clyde

February 28, 2009 4:19 AM | Link to this

Ray

Did you see the Rockets-Cavaliers game the other night. If you didn’t Houston put on a clinic on how to play interior defense against Lebron James.

In this league people are going to get by you but to be good defensively you have to have someone to stop a person at the rim. That’s what Yao Ming did. Horford does not compare to the 7’6 Ming.

Matter of fact no one on the Hawks roster comes close to dominating a game in the middle. We need a player that can do this in order to mentioned as a title contender. Right now its Cleveland and Boston and the Hawks are not being taken seriously because of their lack of size on their frontline.

Horford is good and he did have a monster game last night but he ain’t gonna cut it. He might get you 21 and 20 every blue moon but is he going to lead us to a championship playing center? Or for that can we win a 7 game series with Horford in the middle?

Holla at me when he does.

Horford is a better all around player yes. But Sean Williams can dominate a game in the paint but Horford has yet to prove that. Matter of fact give me Beasly’s numbers for tonight when matched up with against Horford.

ROLL TIDE

By BA

February 28, 2009 6:24 AM | Link to this

I could see arguing against Horford’s value as a player.

And I could see arguing in favor of the upside of Sean “Sparky” Williams.

But to say Horford can’t dominate the paint, after watching the Heat game with your eyes open, is just foolish.

And to cite Sean “Sparky” Williams as a shining example of someone who CAN dominate the paint, well that’s just silly.

But you got to love Clyde’s determination.

Kind of like the old people that won’t leave their trailer, despite an onslaught of tornadoes. They go down in flames, but at least they were determined.

By BA

February 28, 2009 6:31 AM | Link to this

RICHBRAVE:

Get ready, brother- Hall WILL revert. And there’s a big secret in the NFL: D. Hall can’t cover people.

Y’all should enjoy the new big boy in the trenches. Hainsworth is a bad, bad man.

By richbrave

February 28, 2009 8:43 AM | Link to this

I’ll give HAYNESWORTH his due, and if he comes to play, the ‘SKINS defensive line with CORNELIUS GRIFFIN, KEDRICK GOHLSON, and ANTHONY MONTGOMERY should rock. But they’re keeping DE JASON TAYLOR and letting PHILLIP DANIELS and DEMETRIC EVANS test FA. EVANS is in his prime and can double at DT. THAT makes no sense.

By jhan

February 28, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

If the Nets thought they would win a 7 game series with Sean in the middle do you think they would have sent him to the NBDL?

Think the Nets would do a straight up swap with Horford for Williams?

Think the Hawks would?

Clyde certainly does have determination. I agree that Horford is not a center in this league. He should be playing PF. Last night just proved what he could do against other PF’s in this league.

He dominated JO & Haslem. Both of whom are really PF’s themselves & not centers. I would love to see Horford playing against other forwards on a regular basis. I believe he would regularly win those battles.

By bigdave

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

**wow SportsCenter, we handled your beloved Wade and his Heat, but you highlight garbage games… wow… they’re were at least 3 highlight worthy moments in that game… Josh’s putback, his breakaway dunk, Wades block, maybe even Joe down the stretch Al’s 20-20 geesh… the game was a division match-up, 4th and 5th seeds in east…

unbelievable…!!!**

Wade down, James to go…!!!

By niremetal

February 28, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

It’s not even funny with Clyde anymore. Horford actually IS a better defensive player than Williams. Williams does one thing on defense - block shots. But he does it by jumping in the air on EVERY play in an effort to get a block, which results in (surprise!) more fouls than it does blocks. Horford plays smart, man-up defense on every play. He is, without question, a superior post defender than is Sean Williams.

If statistics were the measure of a defender, then I guess Bruce Bowen is a crappy defender, right? After all, he’s never average more than 1 steal per game in his time with the Spurs, and has never ever averaged more than 0.7 blocks per game.

What a joke.

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:21 AM | Link to this

we are in 4th seed, clev is in 2nd seed. if they playoffs started today, 1st rnd is atl vs miami, 2nd rnd atl vs clev.

we have beat miami twice this yr. we have beat clev once. houston beat clev last night. we beat houston

what does all of this mean?

nothin’!!

it sure feels good thinkin’ that maybe the hawks have a chance to make it to the eastern conference finals.

By Clyde

February 28, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this

Jhan and BA who was guarding Beasley last night?

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:33 AM | Link to this

bigdave i feel the hype, bruh…

24 games left, 15 at home, everyone almost 100%. i am ready for a deep playoff push.

our next 5 games: clev, @washington, @knicks, @charlotte, detroit. we could have 38 wins by the end of next week. I am hopin’ that we finish with 47 or 48 wins.

By Ken Strickland

February 28, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

NAJEH DAVENPOOP-excellent point, as always. To add to that, the yr Indy won the SB, they had the NFL’s worst rushing DEF. HC Dungy was asked how he expected to win a championship with that problem. He said don’t worry, he would take care of the problem, and he did. He initiated a trade with his former employer, Tampa Bay, and acquired DT Anthony “BOOGER” McFarland. After acquiring him, the Colts DEF stopped the run and won the Superbowl.

McFarland was the main reason the Bucs let DT WSapp go. Sapp was exposed after McFarland suffered a season ending injury. The same thing happened once with the Falcons when DE Claude Humphrey went down for the season and DE John Zook was exposed. The team got rid of Zook shortly thereafter.

CLYDE-that same frontline took Boston to 7 gms, no other playoff team did that. The only thing that keeps the Hawks from being a top rated team is it’s lack of top rated coaching. You see, the Hawks arent’t being COACHED by Woodson, they’re being CONTROLLED by him. and there’s a big difference between the two.

You need to ease up on the ROLL TIDE stuff. Remember, in the SEC championship gm against Florida this past season, the TIDE GOT ROLLED.

In the last 2 gms, Horford has gotten an opportunity to play a lot of PF, and he has excelled. His outside shot, and his intermediate gm, has come to life. This didn’t happen because he’s changed, but because he changed positions, which gave him more scoring opportunities.

Woodson had no business starting Bibby until he knew what his condition was. It wasn’t fair to the team or Bibby. He pulled the same ill advised stunt with Smoove and Horford after their return from extended stints on IR. We all saw how it slowed the team down and forced both players to try and do more than they were physically capable of doing at the time. With Woodson, it’s all about CONTROL and COMFORT.

I’ve been stuck down here in SE Alabama waaay too long. I’ve become as negative towards Woodson as so many of these Rush Limbaugh loving Republicans are towards President Obama. I feel like a rabbit stuck in the middle of a pack of starving, politically and socially retarded, wolves. RAY, POOP, DOC, SOMEBODY, HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

niremetal, ba, clyde, najeh, ken, if the hawks win 47 or 48 games and make it deep into the playoffs, possibly an eastern conference finals appearance, there is no way that you all can justify wantin’ woody fired.

as a matter of fact, he may get COY if he pulls this off. the hawks have surpassed everyone’s, includin’ myself, expectations this year.

By Clyde

February 28, 2009 11:42 AM | Link to this

Ok I’ll leave it alone (atleast till next month). But if I had a NBA team Sean Williams would be playing center instead of Al Horford. Check this article out:

http://www.nj.com/nets/index.ssf/2009/02/newjerseynetscoachlawrence_1.html

And yall please don’t sleep on New Jersey. They are only one game out for the 8th spot in the playoffs. They have won 2 in a row with Sean Williams playing a significant minutes off the bench.

Perimeter quickness and long frontlines are the recipe for defeating Boston. New Jesey has plenty of it with Devin Harris, Brook Lopez, Josh Boone, and Sean Williams.

Don’t sleep on the Nets. No one wants to play them in a 7 game series.

By richbrave

February 28, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

doc:

The students are on spring break the first two weekends of March and we’re committed for the 28th here in RICHMOND. That only leaves the weekend of the 20th-23rd I believe. May end up being APRIL, but its the FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT’s trip and their call. Will keep you posted.

By niremetal

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

Clyde,

Josh Smith was guarding him for 8 of his 23. Horford was guarding him for 7. Flip was guarding him for 4 because of screen switches, and 4 were on breakaways were the Hawks were in transitition defense (Flip was the closest man on one, and Marvin on the other).

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

clyde i agree that perimeter quickness will beat boston…if i am not mistakin’, the wizards beat boston 3 times last year with perimeter quickness…

By ILL-logical

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

Did not see the game but it was a good win at a great time against a division rival.

Congrats to Josh on the birth of his child ,may he, the child and family be blessed.

Congrats to Al for a stellar game ( but some of it was the result of the shocking decline of J O’Neal)

Tomorrow is the test. Woodson better have a plan the adapts to situation because his stuff is now before a national jury. Blaming the players is not going to cut it with a national media scrutiny in full force. The ball is now squarely in his court: the same old same old will be put to the test.

By Ariose

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

Hey Guys, check out these articles from ESPN:

Free Agent Class of 2009

Possible Summer Trades

Players that intrest me are Lamar Odom, Trevor Ariza, Chris Kaman, Anthony Parker, and Rasho Nesterovic.

Also guys, If the Hawks can put togethr a Five game win-streak and go .500 the rest of the way, they will have 50 wins. OR if they just put toghether a few smaller streaks winning two and three games at a time before loosing…..but considering the fact that we play at home for the madjority of the remainder of the season. I can see us putting together a few long streaks.

If we just play .500 ball from this point on, we finish with 44 wins. We can get to 50, and I think how these next 5 games play out will determine weather we do get there or not.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By richbrave

February 28, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

KEN STRICK:

Same here in the deep CHESTERFIELD suburbs. A real multi-cultural backwater. Had a sign in my yard torn up supporting a moderate democrat for the U.S. SENATE. He won hands down BTW. Thank goodness.

By niremetal

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

Ariose,

Whatchu talkin’ ‘bout? Chris Kaman is under contract through 2012.

By niremetal

February 28, 2009 1:30 PM | Link to this

Ah, I see. You meant to trade for him. Well, maybe we can convince the Clips to do a deal of Smoove and Speedy’s expiring contract for Kaman. A lineup of Bibby, JJ, Marvin, Horford, and Kaman would be more than ok with me.

By cp

February 28, 2009 1:57 PM | Link to this

After watching last nights game it had me wondering, why the hell is Beasley not starting? I know at one point they were saying he had to improve his defense but bringing him off the bench and starting that other kid over him is hurting the team. I really don’t understand that move there for the Heat.

Hopefully Bibby is ready to go Sunday. If not we might as well sit him and let him rest. He did not look good last night at all. The Cavs are playing some great ball and they are very deep. We have to guard that perimeter because they love to shoot the 3. I want to see Marvin have a big game against the Cavs.He has the ability to drive to the hole and draw fouls. Its going to be a tough game.

By David

February 28, 2009 2:11 PM | Link to this

Just read Bill Simmons article on ESPN. The NBA is going down quick, it is a niche sport if you haven’t noticed. Not that it hasn’t slid significantly already (nobody I know who used to follow it does anymore), but it is becoming irrelevant and the Hawks are no exception.

By Ariose

February 28, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

niremetal, I was thinking about trading speedy and using Childress in a sign and trade in order to aquire him…..but it’s just a thought. The main thing is that we need another Big…..one With Muombo/Hasheem Thabeet qualities dfenively and KG potential offensively.

It’s not very likely that we will find one but it’s what we need….or we could just give Solo extended minutes(which woody will never do) but whatever.

~Sir Links A Lot~

By Ariose

February 28, 2009 2:54 PM | Link to this

I meant Mutombo lol.

~Sir links A Lot~

By Ariose

February 28, 2009 3:10 PM | Link to this

Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks have significant free agents to worry about in Mike Bibby, Marvin Williams and Josh Childress. Both Williams and Childress are restricted; Childress has spent the year overseas. If Atlanta waived the rights to all three - in addition to Zaza Pachulia, Flip Murray and the like - the team might be able to get to roughly $13-14.6 million under the cap. Where their first round pick falls sets the range, although the team can always try and draft a European player and stash them overseas for a year - or flat out trade the pick.

One option might be to bring Bibby and Williams at reasonable rates and then use the Mid-Level Exception (roughly $5.6 million) to add to the group - but that depends on how much the two are demanding.

The Hawks should be considered a threat as a cap space team but if they have a strong playoff run, they may be inclined to keep their roster together.

Via Hoopsworld

~Sir Links A Lot~

By bigdave

February 28, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

They (ESPN) hate us…

Chris (Hacienda Heights, CA): Since this seems to be the only the locked playoff matchup so far. Take your pick, the Heat or the Hawks, and in how many games?

SportsNation John Hollinger: Ha, I was thinking the same thing this week — they play Friday and again on the second to last day of the season, and that probably determines home court. I would pick Miami either way, just because of Wade.

By BA

February 28, 2009 4:23 PM | Link to this

Clyde, I thought Smith had Beasley for the most part last night. Just lost him on the perimeter a few times. Horford was primarily working on the other “centers”.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

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

so craig claxton is healthy? really?

By Ken Strickland

February 28, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this

ANT BANKS-under those circumstances, I could still justify firing Woodson. The problem would be with the SAASG, because they couldn’t justify it. Any team with ownership and financial problems like ours, can’t maintain a solid foundation exclusively through F*. You have to have a supply of successful draft picks and a HC that’s willing to develop young talent properly, or at least try to develop them. Woodson’s attitude, approach and overall philosophy aren’t good for the longterm welfare and success of this franchise.

Pat Riley and Larry Brown are in that same boat, and both have a history of having to move on after a successful stay because they are control freaks, like Woodson, and they are uncomfortable developing and/or dealing with young talent.

You can’t tell me you believe the success of this team will be due to HC Mike Woodson’s strategy, ability to motivate and development players, especially young players, ability to install an OFF/DEF system that gets the most out of his players, ability to manage his players mins and effectively utilize his bench to prevent wear and tear on his key players. THIS TEAM HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL TO THIS POINT IN SPITE OF WOODSON, NOT BECAUSE OF HIM. AND THAT’S A TESTAMENT TO THE WILL, TALENT AND FORTITUDE OF THE PLAYERS, AND THE BEHIND THE SCENE EFFORTS OF HIS COACHING STAFF, CERTAINLY NOT WOODSON.

Former Falcon HC Dan Reeves had taken the Falcons, and the Broncos, to the Superbowl, and had established a reputation as a winning HC. He was fired by Falcon’s owner ABlank when it was finally realized he has some issues as a HC. He had established a history of not being able, as a HC, to make his teams competitive without his key player. The Broncos would fall apart without QB Elway, the Giants fell apart without RB Mendenhal and the Falcons fell apart without RB JAnderson and QB MVick. In O3, when QB MVick broke his leg, Reeves coached the Falcons to a 2-10 record the 1st 12 gms. Reeves started a campaign of criticizing MVick for not returning sooner from that broken leg, although he hadn’t been cleared to return by team doctors. When MVick did return, the team went 3-1 their last 4gms.

SOMETIMES IT REALLY IS THE PLAYER(S) WHO ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TEAMS SUCCESS, INSPITE OF THE HC, ALTHOUGH HE FAR TOO OFTEN GETS THE CREDIT.

By Mel

February 28, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

Mike Woodson seems like a typical College coach.

By Ben

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

we need to activate Speedy (who may actually be healthy for once) and deactivate Acie. Play Speedy big minutes then trade them both this offseason and get a fresh set of shooting PGs that fit Woody’s system

By Ben

February 28, 2009 6:19 PM | Link to this

we need to activate speedy (who may actually be healthy for once) and deactivate law. give speedy big mins backing up bibby and then trade them both this offseason for a fresh set of PGs

By ?????

February 28, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

Beasley torched Horford in the beginning of the 4th. Smith wasn’t even on the floor. When Smith got back in he stopped scoring. He made a 3pt late. Al had a great night but he doesn’t have the foot speed to guard Beasley. There goes the insurance paying Speedy’s contract. Hawks won’t be too happy about this article. Hopefully, some of you will get off Sekou’s back.

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

ken i couldn’t agree with you more. please don’t mistake my comments as a woody lover. i don’t like his lack of player development either.

the SAASG leadership style thus far says that they will keep woody for those aforementioned theories.

since SAASG has taken over, there hasn’t been one thing that they have done that shows creativity, thinkin outside of the box, or vision.

summation-ken as long as the hawks are owned by SAASG, and woodson is “producin’” in the win column, they will keep him here. remember knight wanted to fire him, but they kept him.

i am willin’ to be $100cyber dollars that woodson will get a 3yr extension this summer, if the hawks win 43+ games and make a deep playoff push.

there is no way that woodson would coach the 09-10 season with 1yr left, after havin’ a successful 08-09 season. his agent will demand an extension

By bigdave

February 28, 2009 7:09 PM | Link to this

??? great point,

ive always felt that Horford was a center in a PF body… i doubt he could hold his own defensively against most PF, especially in the east…

By Blast

February 28, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Great win against the Heat last night. And what about Big Al, huh? Beast. I wouldn’t trade him for Sean Williams one bit, would not even consider it. We haven’t seen the best of Al yet. The more he plays forward, the better he’ll be. Hawks guards, run the ball through your bigs some more!

I think Jermaine O’Neal is done. He looked bad out there. Not sure how much help he’s going to give the Heat.

Yeah, Houston showed how vulnerable the Cavs can be. Also most NBA teams have several guys that can come off the bench and be a game changer. The Hawks only have one: Flip. Who the hell is Wafer? Where did Houston find him, and what about that mohawk?

Art, Hawks in or win the East? Please don’t get carried away. Let’s not stretch it that far yet. I’m game by game, buddy. Hawks are so unpredictable that they could go on a long win or losing streak at any moment, so no playoff predictions. I just hope the players start playing every game with playoff intensity.

HUGE game on Sunday vs the Cavs. IF the Hawks can win that game, they have a chance of winning their next five. After Cleveland, they go on the road vs the Wizards. I say they take that game, so long as President Obama is not present. Then the Hawks travel to New York. The Knicks are scrappy, but Hawks should win that game. Off next to Charlotte. Another win. Home vs Detroit. Hawks have had their number all year. The Hornets come to town next. Hawks match up well with them. Five games they have a chance to win, only IF they defeat Cleveland on Sunday cos without that win, the Hawks will not have the mojo to go on the road take those games. Win on Sunday, and thay can sling in seven wins in a row, which will be a great boost in the standings. I really would love to see the Hawks separate themselves from Miami, Detroit and Philly. Utah comes to town after the Hornets, more predictions coming then. Lets see how things play out first.

Go Hawks!

By Samuel

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

Ken,

Let’s face it. You and many others here just don’t like Mike Woodson.

You’re telling me that if the Hawks make the Eastern Conference Finals, you would still fire Woodson? What a Joke.

That Falcons analogy doesn’t make much since either. Authur Blank knows squat about football, we all know that. Who did he replace Reeves with?

Woody=COY

By Astro Joe

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

Sekou, will the insurance company continue to pay Speedy’s salary with this new information? At this point, there doesn’t seem much difference between Speedy and Gardner (except Gardnes actually got some run last week).

By rms

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

Samuel Woody is not COY!! Come on’, dont show up when they win a few games and post your COY statement. Even if they beat the Cavs he still aint COY. You do, however, have a valid arguement for him being COY if they reach the Eastern Conference Finals but we all know they wont! Thats just being realistic!!

By Najeh Davenpoop

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

To add to what Ken Strickland said (great post BTW)… in almost every situation, it makes very little sense to trade a talented player because he doesn’t fit in a coach’s system. There are maybe three coaches — Phil Jackson, Jerry Sloan, Gregg Popovich — in the NBA who come to mind for whom that would make sense. In the Hawks’ case, unless they can acquire a legitimate star who will be a guaranteed upgrade on both ends of the floor, it doesn’t make any sense (from an on-the-court standpoint) to trade players like Josh Smith or Al Horford who would probably flourish under a better coach.

By KevinA

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

I would like to see Speedy play. I would like to see his defense against the pg’s that torch us. If he can’t guard any better than Bibby, Flip or Acie we can say we at least say we gave him a shot. If he plays good we can decide what to do with him later. Not much to lose by giving him spot min.

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this

we are in 4th seed, clev is in 2nd seed. if the playoffs started today, 1st rnd is atl vs miami, 2nd rnd atl vs clev.

we have beat miami twice this yr. we have beat clev once. houston beat clev last night. we beat houston

what does all of this mean?

nothin’!!

it sure feels good thinkin’ that maybe the hawks have a chance to make it to the eastern conference finals.

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:15 PM | Link to this

24 games left, 15 at home, everyone almost 100%. i am ready for a deep playoff push.

our next 5 games: clev, @washington, @knicks, @charlotte, detroit. we could have 38 wins by the end of next week. I am hopin’ that we finish with 47 or 48 wins.

By ant banks

February 28, 2009 11:21 PM | Link to this

if atl is serious about bein’ a top contender in the nba, please lock bibby in NOW with a 3 yr 8mil-10mil deal.

why?

jj likes bibby and i think that it would be easier to re-sign jj if bibby is here.

re-signin’ bibby shows committment to winnin’. for all of bibby’s flaws, we have won more games with him than without him.

in light of how we took boston to task last year, and based on how we do with a playoff push this year and with a nucleus of bibby, jj, smoove, horford, a lot of free agents would be interested in comin’ to atlanta

SAASG or DAASG or WTFASG!! please show some forsight and committment to winnin’ and re-sign bibby, NOW

By ray

February 28, 2009 11:30 PM | Link to this

Clyde,

Beasley is not a center. He’s a “tweener” forward who is a matchup nightmare for anybody. He can score from anywhere on the court.

“Horford does not compare to Yao Ming.”

Gee whiz. Nobody does, last I looked. He’s the tallest guy in the league. Yet he still gets dunked on every now and then (watch the highlights from the game against Chicago tonight…Chicago won..Tyrus Thomas dunked on Yao). All the same, call me when you find us a Yao.

Or do you think Sean Williams will beat up on him.

Riddle me this, Clyde. Why is it that the rookie Brook Lopez starts ahead of Sean Williams? Why did Williams get kicked down to the D-league earlier this season (Horford never has..)? And why, oh why do we have a better record than New Jersey, who has the wonderful post dominating Sean Williams? Hmmmm? Can you give good, honest, fact-based answers to those questions? Like I said, call me when the guy is good enough to win a starting job amongst a group of guys that includes a rookie and a bunch of players who can’t stay healthy.

I agree that Horford is not the ideal guy to have at center. But whose fault is that? Not his! Yeah, you can say he’ll give you a 20/20 game once in a blue moon. Williams has never had a game like that in the NBA, so just stop it. Besides, that ain’t the problem. The problem is that we do not have consistent aggression and effort along our front line. Our guys are as athletic as anybody’s. But they don’t all have their minds on doing what they have to do.

Watch for changes this summer. Who knows, maybe we’ll get your coveted New Jersey forward/center. Then he can sit on the bench. Right next to Solo…

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 1, 2009 12:03 AM | Link to this

Horford definitely doesn’t compare to Yao Ming — to my knowledge Horford hasn’t ever been packed by Nate Robinson.

By gypsyjoe

March 1, 2009 12:29 AM | Link to this

I see Luther Head got cut by Houston. I know we are guard heavy but you can always use another 3 point shooter.

By ray

March 1, 2009 1:11 AM | Link to this

Houston beat Cleveland a few games back. They just lost to Chicago. Derrick Rose is such a treat to watch, and he’s just a rookie. Kid sure manned up in the 4th quarter against the Rockets.

Wade went ballistic on New York and got the Heat a game back from when they lost to us. The pressure isn’t off yet….

By ray

March 1, 2009 1:18 AM | Link to this

Najeh,

I remember that play!

Ant,

They’re going to wait until the offseason. And I’m not entirely sure Bibby wants to stay. There are other things to consider as well. We would be okay with Bibby perhaps if we make some other changes. Yes, we are better with him than without. But that’s not the sole reason for our resurgence.

One of our problems is that we don’t have a consistent threat in the low post. Some say it’s because none of our guys can get the job done. Others say it’s because we just don’t make use of what we have. Either way, something has got to give. I think you’ll see either Marvin or Josh going somewhere else this summer. It was going to come to that sooner or later anyway. I don’t think we’ll see Horford going anywhere, but I could be wrong about that, too. Doubt it, but we’ll see.

I see Speedy Claxton says he’s back and ready to play, though he doesn’t expect to play any minutes this season, and expects to be gone after the season is over. Well, all I can say is that it’s good to have healthy trade pieces….

I like how he says that Law is Bibby’s backup. What a joke. We all know there is Flip and nobody else…

By Samuel

March 1, 2009 5:50 AM | Link to this

rms,

I believe a 1st round playoff win coupled with a couple of 1st round exits by DEN, UTAH and HOU would put him in good shape to win.

Woody still in the running for:COY

By doc

March 1, 2009 8:22 AM | Link to this

By ant banks February 28, 2009 11:13 PM | Link to this we are in 4th seed, clev is in 2nd seed. if the playoffs started today, 1st rnd is atl vs miami, 2nd rnd atl vs clev.

ant b the order is 1 and 4 and 2 against 3 when you get into the playoffs not 1 and 3 and 2 and 4 as you are suggesting. so it would mean the celts in the second round if we were to hold the present position and then hold serve.

By bigdave

March 1, 2009 10:09 AM | Link to this

LEEEEEEEETSSSSSS GOOO !!!!

IM AMPED FOR THIS GAME…!!! WE NEED THIS GAME!! WOULD BE A GREAT CONFIDENCE BOOSTER!!

By ant banks

March 1, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

doc thanks for clearin’ that up for me and i apologize to anyone that i may have missed lead. sorry. i got mixed up.

i would much rather play clev over 7games instead of boston. so, if we dropped to the 6th seed, i would not be terribly upset. that would mean that we would play magic 1st round and clev 2nd round.

By jhan

March 1, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

Samuel - I have to agree that Woody is still in the running. Even making the second round will have him in consideration. Even though I tend to believe he is an average coach at best.

Doc - I’ll be there tonite but not in my seats. Friends of the family will be in the primo spot. I tried getting your attention Friday night but could never make contact (left my phone at home). I’ll come by for the halftime pretzel & chat if you are interested.

Let’s show everyone that we’re ready for prime time!!!

By ant banks

March 1, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

ray it is not so much if bibby wants to be here, it is if we give him an above respectable amount of money. i think that he is lettin’ money be his drivin’ issue

By ant banks

March 1, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

i lament the fact the starbury may get a ring wit’ the celts. i mean this guy has been pariah his whole career, for every team that he has played for.

as much as i love garnett’s and ray allen’s play over their careers and would love to see them win rings, i will really be pullin’ against them this year.

By Najeh Davenpoop

March 1, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t think the C’s are going to win this year, Starbury or no Starbury.

F-ck a snowstorm — I’m going to tonight’s game. I hope people don’t get scared off by the weather… would be nice to see a full house.

By Ken Strickland

March 1, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

SAMUEL-I don’t know Woodson personally, so my disagreement with him is strickly on a professional level, not on a personal level. It’s quite possible he and I could be very close friends personally, but I still question his approach as a HC.

NAJEH-excellent points. The current Hawks team is made up of quick, fast, young, versatile and very athletic players that are rather uniform in size and height, especially across our frontline. Talent, skill and size wise, we have demonstrated on numerous occasions, especially over the last 2yrs, that we’re far, far better off running an uptempo OFF and utilizing our bench. We have also demonstrated over the last 2yrs that we struggle when forced to play a slowdown halfcourt OFF.

Woodson’s attitude towards younger players that aren’t finished products, and that he feels doesn’t fit his preferred style of play, is almost adversarial(see Acie, Staudamire, Solo, Morris etc).

If the team manages to win with a HC that forces them to play an OFF style they’re not best suited for, and playing under adverse conditions(limited bench use, overplaying key players), can you imagine how much more successful this team would be if the bench was utilized, key players weren’t overplayed, and we got more easy baskets running an uptempo fastbreaking OFF?

Wouldn’t it be much much easier, cheaper, and more rewarding, to have a HC on board that understands the benefit of placing a ROUND peg in the ROUND hole, rather than one that insists on trying to place a SQUARE peg in the ROUND hole.

I agree with Najeh concerning Bibby. He’s on the down side of his career and has lost a lot of his former athletism. He doesn’t have a lot of productive yrs left, especially as a starter, and with the mins Woodson is forcing him to play, that end will likely come sooner than later.

By rms

March 1, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Samuel I aint saying Woody aint in the running for COY. As much as I dont agree with his stlye of coaching, its obvious he at least deserve some consideration, but he just wont win especially if Cleveland and Orlando go deep in the playoffs. Those coaches are ahead of Woodson for COY, not the other way around. Last year doesnt count, this year is what is taken into consideration. On another note, I think Speedy has been healthy for quite some time and we all know Law is not Bibby’s backup. I would argue that Speedy Claxton is ahead of Law on the depth chart!! We need to figure out this guard position now so we can now what to do with Law (play him more) or re-up Bibby and trade Claxton for a Center. You cant stand pat for too long…

By doc

March 1, 2009 5:18 PM | Link to this

jhan, under the weather a bit so i wont be venturing out tonight. conveniently sold them on the hawks site and they were sold within minutes this am. was surprised at the action expecting to come home from an earlier obligation and end up needing go. so i will be warm at home tonight. sorry, i missed you at the last game. there has been so little action in your seats and so long since there was a game i didnt look down there but hesitated in front of the pretzel stand at the last game with no liars seen. have a good time and get us a victory.

we got to turn the bus around and give samuel more blog ops for his COY rants. i’ll even take that kind of intrusion to get few victories. got tired of the only one game and we are still above .500. balance at the liars table just prefer wins. heh heh

By mississippi

March 1, 2009 7:14 PM | Link to this

Yo Sekou,

Can we get a new blog for this nationally televised game? Please.

By Ken Strickland

March 1, 2009 8:13 PM | Link to this

Did anyone else notice how Doc Rivers utilized his bench, including 2 players that just joined the team(Marbury and Moore)? Woodson is such a coward he’s afraid to utilize the players that’s been with his bench since training camp.

What’s the difference? Doc is a real HC. He’s already won one NBA championship, but continuess thinking ahead. He has enough sense to know he has to know he has to play his new players in order to incorperate them into the rotation if they’re going to make positive contributions in the playoffs. He also knows he has to get his bench players mins so they will be sharp and able to contribute down the stretch.

On the other hand, the Hawks HC has an opposite philosophy. He believes it’s best to ignore the bench, except for a couple of veterans, and ride his top 7 players like a horse down the stretch. He feels his bench should be used only when mandated by injury. No one can say what he’s preparing his team for, but it’s not the playoffs. No intelligent, competent HC wants to limp into the playoffs with with their key players fatigued, aching and frustrated.

WELL, LIKE THE PHILOSOPHY SOME HAVE USED BEFORE. IF THE CAR’S STILL RUNNING, THERE’S NO NEED TO CHANGE THE OIL.