Sports Columnists

By Orlando Rivera

June 21, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this

Atlanta is looking for players who can contribute now, which is why they’ll probably go for Horford at 3 and hopefully they will trade the 11 pick to get a veteran PG if they don’t get Law. They don’t need any more “projects” for Woodson to screw up with his inept coaching.

If they get Crittenton it will only be to sell tickets for the locals.

By Orlando Rivera

June 21, 2007 7:50 PM | Link to this

One question: what exactly do you do with Marvin Williams? I understand Horford is solid at 4 and you can put Josh at 3, but did anyone remember that they’ll have to find some way to include Marvin as well?

By jackson

June 21, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this

Bibby is washed up. Chauncey/Kidd will be too expensive. Target Mo Williams (sign and trade for Shelden and Speedy). Take Yi/Horford and Critt/Law.

By jackson

June 21, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Bibby is washed up. Chauncey/Kidd will be too expensive. Target Mo Williams (sign and trade for Shelden and Speedy). Take Yi/Horford and Critt/Law.

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 8:38 PM | Link to this

Mo Williams is basically Claxton. We have enough back up PG’s already.

By Macaroni Tony

June 21, 2007 8:47 PM | Link to this

see that the Boston Celtics will not be getting Kevin Garnett, he told them that he did not want to play for them. Also I don’t see the trade for Villanueva want be happening with that contract extension that he just earned. So we are going to have to make some wise decisions with these picks. I do like the sound of Dwight Howard playing with us, but are we going pay him what he is worth. So I don’t think that we will not be getting Garnett because he said that the only team that he would like to play for is the Suns. I know that BK heart is still with Gasol so if Memphis can’t convince him to stay then maybe we can send our #11 along with Wright, Salim, and Ivey (some dead weight) for Gasol. Then with the #3 we chose Yi. Then the line up could be

Charlie Bell (get him through FA)If Milwaukee don’t match JJ (floor general) JS (franchise future) Yi Gasol

bench

Speedy/Lue Chills MW SW/SJones Zaza

that is a micro wish I think that would be at least a playoff team for starters

By travis

June 21, 2007 8:48 PM | Link to this

Okay, I am sold on Horford. Pull the trigga!! If he is what they say he is. I don’t know if I would bring Bibby in though. Dude is due to make 14mil next year. I don’t want to get ride of J-Smoove neither. Can we package the 11 with Chills/Lue to get a player? Critt would be already, but he would take a few years to develop.

By Scott

June 21, 2007 8:53 PM | Link to this

Mark, I have always been a fan of your work, HOWEVER, that was the worst, most illogical garbage that has ever spewed from your fingertips. Have you been hanging around Billy Knight too much. Horford is not what this team needs, NO WAY would we EVER give up JOSH SMITH for Mike Bibby?!?!? Are you crazy?! Lastly, Crittendon is a project on a team of projects. Mark, that was HORRIBLE!

By ATLplayer

June 21, 2007 9:08 PM | Link to this

I agree take Horford at #3. or trade the #3 and Speedy to Portland for Aldridge and Jack. But If Memphis will take the #3 and Sheldon Williams for Paul Gasol pull the trigger now! If we have to keep both picks take the best PG available at #11 that fits the Hawks scheme.

By Greg

June 21, 2007 9:10 PM | Link to this

If we go Horford, seems to me to be alittle crowded. I would imagine Josh Smith, M. Williams, or S. williams would be moved to free up some playing time. I dont mind seeing us pick Horford or Yi at #3, I just hope we make the right pick.

By Lawrence Givens

June 21, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

I’m of the belief that if you are wanting to keep a solid nucleus of young players together then you avoid trading Josh Smith. Build a team that isn’t a one or two year flash (flash is optimistic at best)in the pan which is what I think you’d be doing with trading for Mike Bibby.

Stick with the picks, at No. 3 take Horford. He’s the polished big body the Hawks have been looking for (and missed with Sheldon Williams) Don’t discount the fact that he’s played in some HUGE games against some premier big men and held his own, if not outplayed them. At No. 11, if he’s available take Law over Crittendon. Law is more tested and proved than Javaris. Acie has potential to be a nice scoring guard that can pass, as well as, take and hit clutch shots (The name Chauncey Billiups sound familiar?)

Let’s face it, the Hawks aren’t going to make the playoffs this year and if they do, chances they advance past the first round are minimal considering they’d slide in at the 7 or 8 slot and be pitted against the 1 or 2 seeds. So, by the end of the season, your starting lineup should be at the 1) Acie Law 2) Joe Johnson 3) Josh Smith 4) Al Hortford 5) Zaza with Josh Childress and Marvin Williams as your six/seven men (yes, its sucks to have the No. 2 and 6 overall picks as your bench players but its better than having some no named journeymen in the roles).

Side note personally, I’d look for a nice defensive compliment at the 5 spot to pair with Zaza in free agency - Jaamal Magloire, Marc Jackson, Kelvin Cato

Even through his inept draft grading and strategy, Billy Knight will have made the most of the mistakes he’s made by following this game plan. Now that being said, we’ll draft Al Thornton and Julian Wright (Huh? Yeah … exactly)

By travis

June 21, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Scott, you may want to cut back on the caffeine, easy there. Mark was just saying that don’t be surprised if the Hawks take Horford. I mean dude is projected to go top 10, so the Hawks aren’t the only ones with him high on their list. And he suggest a package deal for Bibby…Bibby is not “washed up” he was 17pts, 5ast, and 3rebs last year, these stats are not washed up. I like the suggestion of Horford over Yi, an unproven risk. And drafting Conley at 3 IS a stretch. Why? Well, Chris Paul and Brandon Roy had great 1st yr numbers and CP had great 2nd yr numbers, but neither led their team anywhere. I can’t think of a guard in recent memory who rearranged the game because they were so good, so Conley is not warranted for a 3pick. A good forward is a game changer ie. Kobe, KG, Lebron, Chris Bosh, etc. A GOOD forward can get you in the playoffs before a good pg can. Other than Deron Williams, name the last young pg that got his team DEEP into the playoffs.

By Charlie

June 21, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

Honestly, what happened to Marvin Williams the Hawks 3rd best player behind JJ and Josh Smith? Are Marvin Josh Chill and Sheldon backups for Al H and Josh Smith. No real center no real PG….Joe Johnson’s gotta hate this

By Charlie

June 21, 2007 9:20 PM | Link to this

Honestly, what happened to Marvin Williams the Hawks 3rd best player behind JJ and Josh Smith? Are Marvin Josh Chill and Sheldon backups for Al H and Josh Smith. No real center no real PG….Joe Johnson’s gotta hate this

By greenvegas

June 21, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

we should trade some assets to draft Williams from BC. the dude is nasty defensively at center and worth the risk if you take him around 20 in the draft

By E-dubb

June 21, 2007 9:25 PM | Link to this

o.k. bk here is the trade we need to do, swap #3 & j-chills to Boston for #5 & al jefferson. with 5th pick take conley and # 11 take best available or field trade offers to maybe get a first next year.

By jackson

June 21, 2007 9:33 PM | Link to this

Mo Williams numbers have increased steadily in his four years in the league and put up 17, 6, 5 last year while shooting 45%. He is the reason they traded TJ Ford, a player Conley projects to be. He is a proven starter, something Speedy has never been.

By tony

June 21, 2007 9:39 PM | Link to this

I totally disagree with taking another forward for the 5th time in a row. A forward nor a center will solve our biggest problem which is lack of assists and low field goal percentage. A true point guard is the only position that can solve those problems because he is the ball distibutor and the qb of the NBA. This the 5th year that BK said “THIS GUY IS TOO GOOD TO PASS ON”. I am sick of this guy. He better take Mike Conley and that’s all to it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By rascal

June 21, 2007 9:40 PM | Link to this

I think we trade Joe Johnson for Larry Bird, then maybe package Speedy Claxton and Shelden Williams for Magic Johnson. Work a sign and trade deal when we draft Yi or Horford for Kareem Abdul Jabbar or we can all just wake the heck up and realize that this stuff is hard and with a little luck and a little show of support for the local team., we might just be pretty damn good with a couple of solid players with our two picks in this draft.

By T

June 21, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

That is insane. If we keep drafting forwards and depth the Hawks will never amount to anything. Why would you pass up another good PG regardless if he is worth the 3 pick or not. Conley is 19 and was easily the MVP of the NCAA tournment. Why don’t we stop wasting are time trying to trade for a PG that we should have drafted, and JUST DRAFT ONE. Then with the 11 pick we should take Spencer Hawes. So we have some future to build on. Lets face it, even if we did bring some veterans in and trade some of our youngsters, we would still not be good.

By Matt the Brave

June 21, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

Is it really too much to ask the Hawks to maybe…just maybe…not draft a forward. I mean, honestly. Are we ABA now? I don’t mean from the 70s, I mean now. We’re the laughingstock of the NBA year after year after year now. If you want a forward, trade your picks, next year’s pick (which I guarantee will be a lottery pick) and a couple of deadbeats for Kobe. At least it’ll be interesting to watch him self-destruct in a smaller town that doesn’t care.

By Josh C

June 21, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this

How ‘bout Marvin, Josh Smith, and the no. 3 for Garnett or Kobe? Then take Crit at 11. Think about it…

Speedy/Crit, JJ, Kobe, Shelden, Zaza

or

Speedy/Crit, JJ, JChill, KG, Shelden

You could also trade the no. 3 to Portland along with Speedy for Jack and Randolph so Portland can grab Conley with Oden:

Jack, JJ, JSmoove, Shelden/Marvin, Randolph.

This pick could change the franchise, Horford won’t.

By tony

June 21, 2007 10:33 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, you apparently don’t know too much about team needs, because if you did you would agree that Mike Conley gives us the best chance to win. Memphis is picking right behind the Hawks and they are willing to take Conley. So tell me, what’s the different between 3 and 4? If he is worth the 4th pick, then he is worth the 3rd pick. We have a foolish GM and Memphis has a smart GM - thats the difference. The pg is the most important position in the NBA but that so call GM (BK) still hasn’t realize that after 4 years of complete failure!!!!!! http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=ArM6XF6jPg9z5KF0xA46xV110bYF?slug=ys-mockdraft062107&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this

I know so many people are truly in love with Conley. If you really want to watch him for the next couple of seasons, don’t watch the Hawks games, because I doubt he’ll be wearing a Hawks’ uniform. This will be the first time I will not criticize BK’s first pick, unless he takes Brandan Wright. Then, of course, I will turn the tv off! I won’t care about the 11th pick. But he should not take Conley with the 3rd pick, in my opinion. For reasons I’ve stated often…but for the most part, undeserving of such a high pick. We’re going to get a solid PG for the future with the 11th pick or via trade.

So, do I have a problem drafting ANOTHER FORWARD with the 1st pick for the Hawks this season….NO. But only if that forward is Horford. He is the only one. This guy will be a game-changer. He will make an impact, play right away, and be a Karl Malone type player.

Everyone else can whine and complain all they want (popular ATL sports fan theme), but with Horford and a solid PG, this is a very dangerous team in the East not only this year, but for the next 5 - 8 years, minimum.

If, and I do mean IF…ATL resigns J Smith, and let’s say for argument sake that we keep the 11th pick….

Just a quick projected lineup for years to come: PG: Law or Crittenton (that’s TON, not DON) SG: JJ SF: JSmith(where I truly believes he should be playing) PF: Horford C: Jones/S Williams

Now, as Lawrence stated earlier…hard to have a no.2 and no.6 overall pick on the bench. But what they will be on draft night are very attractive trade options. If not, then you have insurance if you can’t resign JSmith. But I think BK will find a way to package one of our MANY 6-9 guys, the 11th pick, and a useless current roster spot (LWright, Claxton, Ivey) for the starting PG he really wants, or the starting C he really wants. If he find the starting C he wants BEFORE the draft, then a lot of you will be happy with the no.3 pick, b/c then it will almost certainly be Conley. Otherwise, watch from afar as the rest of us enjoy having Horford in a Hawks uniform for years to come!

By Mark Bradley

June 21, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

The idea isn’t to get just any point guard. (The Hawks already have just any point guard in Speedy Claxton.) The point is to get the right one. And I think the Hawks will see Crittenton as having a greater upside than Conley.

By huh

June 21, 2007 10:52 PM | Link to this

Im sorry but what the hell did Horford do that was so spectacular. The guy played good some games and tottaly disapeared in others. I dont want this guy at all. He is a decent player but he is not even close to being a center. The guy is 6’9, check the measuremnts and is not as athletic as some people are making him. This guy is no where near a Tim Duncan or Amare Stoudamire. Damn how many more years will the Hawks just blow the draft. FIRE BK AND THE WHOLE FREAKING FRONT OFFICE.

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 10:56 PM | Link to this

Josh That is NOWHERE near enough for KG or Kobe. And Portland would not take Claxton with 5 years left on his contract, just to draft Conley, while trading away Randolph and Jack.

And someone please explain(I’ve yet to understand this one) how Conley “gives us the best chance to win”? Without a true inside presence, where does Conley help? The entire world knows by now he CANNOT shoot. So, it’s fairly easy to keep him out of the lane in the NBA. Remember, he won’t have Oden to dump the rock off to. Not only that, he’ll face in your face, physical defense, in the NBA, every night. He won’t have his way in the paint every night. So, again, how does he give us the “BEST CHANCE TO WIN”?

By rt

June 21, 2007 10:57 PM | Link to this

i like the idea of law,johnson,smith,horford,but then you still have zaza? he’s not a bad 5 man he just doesnt fit well into the young hawks system.

also knight keeps hinting he wants to trade at least one of the picks for a veteran player possibly luke ridnour-seattle. or possibly trading down to 6 and getting villanueva the 6-11 beast who does it all.

how sweet does one of those options sound?

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this

rt I like the luke ridnour scenario. I have since last year before the trade deadline. That would be sweet. And I would enjoy Villanueva also…but I’m wondering..I saw today that Milwaukee picked up the option on him. Does that mean they’re keeping him?

By CAL

June 21, 2007 11:12 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it, the Hawks need everything. Pick the best available with the first pick and a point guard with the second pick whether it be Conley , Law or Crittendon.

By vdunkndunk

June 21, 2007 11:13 PM | Link to this

I did check the measurements on Horford. Conclusion: Horford is a hair under 6’10, his standing reach is within an inch-and-a-half of Amare’s, and his vertical leap is essentially the same as Amare’s.

So just going by the numbers, Horford is actually fairly close to Amare in terms of measurable physical attributes - much closer than a lot of people realize, and much closer to Amare than to Shelden.

Obviously it’s a stretch to call Horford the next Amare, but in the weaker Eastern Conference I think Horford could cause a lot of teams a lot of problems.

And at 6’10 with strength, athleticism, and big man skills, it’s not a stretch to think he could play center in the Eastern Conference alongside Josh Smith - especially with the way NBA teams are moving towards smaller but more athletic centers.

In other words, I’m all for this one. Most NBA teams feel that Horford is the third-best player in the draft, and he’s 6’10, strong, athletic, quick, and skilled - plus he blocks shots and rebounds.

So I see no reason not to take him, especially because we can still get a fairly good PG with the 11th pick. And while Conely is a surprisingly polished playmaker for a freshmen, he can’t shoot a lick. And Critt has enough talent to where there may not be much difference between those two guys a year or two from now.

But the dropoff between Horford and whatever bigman will be available at 11 is huge.

And just in case people haven’t watched much of the Hawks, their defensive rebounding and lack of shotblocking from the center position is probably an even bigger reason for our losing than our lack of a PG.

We’re basically last in every defensive stat you can imagine, so Horford will only help us. And we can still land our PG of the future, because as good as Conely is, he’s still a bit of a project himself.

By Braves Fan 79

June 21, 2007 11:14 PM | Link to this

I like Hartford at 3 and critt at 11. Critts a hometown boy who shoots better than conley. And u cant tell me conleys post up game is better than critts…

By Nick

June 21, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this

Mark, you watched the Tech games this year, right? At gun point, who would you say is going to be the better pro, Crittenton or Conley? Conley has a lot of upside, too, and - guess what? - he’s already a better player than Crittenton.

Also, you may be the first sports writer to put Horford in the same sentence as Duncan. Not sure that’s a good thing. Congrats!

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

Some people simply will not be happy unless Conley ends up in ATL. He is not going to be Magic Johnson folks.

By vdunkndunk

June 21, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Nick, even if Conely is the best PG in the draft, it isn’t necessarily by a huge margin. Conely is more in the Tony Parker mold, although he’s probably a better passer than Parker, while Crittenton is in the Chauncy Billups mold. Their different kinds of players, but both of them have a lot of upside.

Right now Conely’s floor-leadership is clearly ahead of Critt’s, and Critt makes too many turnovers, but Critt is bigger and stronger, he has a better jumpshot, a better postgame, and he’s just as good as Conely when it comes to getting out in transition or finishing around the basket.

Basically, I see nothing in Critt’s game to suggest that he can’t become a very good NBA PG within the next two or three years. And before you say we don’t need a project, don’t forget that it may very well take Conely that long too, since he can’t shoot and he’s only a freshman himself. They’re different players, but the best-case scenario for both players could be pretty high.

At any rate, whether your’re talking about Conely or Critt, it’s putting a lot of pressure on a freshman PG if you’re asking him to come into the NBA and save one of the worst teams in the league his rookie season. I’m not sure that either guy is up to that task next season.

So to me, we might as well maximize the pick and get a rugged 6’10, athletic, skilled postplayer to go along with a nice PG prospect for the future. That fills two holes at once - and I think Horford is more ready to make an immediate impact than Conely anyway.

By tony

June 21, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley, you are completely clueless. First of all, Mike Conley is the best shooting point guard in this draft. If he’s not, then prove to everyone that there is a pg that shot more than 52% from the field. Conley give’s us the best chance to win because he will improve our assists total and that will improve our field goal percentage. The hawks were 24th in the league in assists and 28th in the league in FG%. Defensively we were pretty good. 5th in block shots, 9th in steals and 22nd in rebounding. We held our opponent under 100ppg. With Conley quickness and his ability to create separation and space off the dribble, he will create scoring opportunities for the team. Conley is too fast for anyone to guard him so he will create havoc for a lot of teams. I rather it be them and not us!!

By Effler

June 21, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Critt has great tools but will need a few years to develop; he’s simply too young and too raw. If the Hawks draft him, though, I hope I’m wrong because he is a great kid and will be sorely missed at GT. As a first rounder, he had to go; if, however, he had stayed to finish college, he would have been all-world and probably would have led GT back to the final four maybe more than once.

By Hatertots

June 21, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley-

If I hadn’t read the “expiring contract and #26 pick for Josh Smith and #11” proposed by a 12 year old over at realgm.com earlier today, your “Smoove + #11 for Mike Bibby” would’ve been the most hilarious Smith trade I read today. Better luck next time, big guy.

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 11:38 PM | Link to this

tony

Please accept my apologies for being rude, but of all the ignorant things we read on blogs, you stating that Conley is the best shooting PG in this draft was borderline ignorant. You can’t use FG% to judge how well someone shoots. He never had to shoot much, and for the most part, they were layups and 10 - 15 footers. He is not the best shooting pg, BY ANY STRETCH OF THE IMAGINATION, of the PG’s in this draft.

By JohnGTfan

June 21, 2007 11:39 PM | Link to this

tony

Please accept my apologies for being rude, but of all the ignorant things we read on blogs, you stating that Conley is the best shooting PG in this draft was borderline ignorant. You can’t use FG% to judge how well someone shoots. He never had to shoot much, and for the most part, they were layups and 10 - 15 footers. And he never had to shoot much. He is not the best shooting pg, BY ANY STRETCH OF THE IMAGINATION, of the PG’s in this draft.

By rt

June 21, 2007 11:49 PM | Link to this

ok when conley was in trouble he dumped it to oden, who seemed to get every body out of trouble.

when oden was in foul trouble and it was conley, conley would lead, but whn he couldnt shoot he dumped it daquen cook.

so when javaris was in trouble he dumped it to…maybe thad young.

when acie law was in troble, he picked up the pace.

wat im trying to say here is conley was on a team with superstars and it has been that way his whole life, wats gonna happen when he has to make his own way in the nba?

By Gutz

June 21, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

MARK, wow you really are an IDIOT. You were actually making sense for once by saying we should take Horford and Crit with our #3 and #11 picks. I totally agree with you on this. But then you had to go and lose ALL CREDIBILITY by making that awful trade proposal. You don’t trade a potential superstar in Josh Smith who just averaged 16.4pts, 8.6rb, 3.3ast, and 3blocks a game last year all the while being only 21yrs old. Plus Smith still has TREMENDOUS upside and you want to trade him and our #11 pick for a washed up, shoot first bum PG in Mike Bibby? Wow you obviously don’t even watch the Hawks clown. How do morons like you even get to write sports articles. Good lord!! Bibby also had his WORST year of his career last year and is clearly washed up. But of course you probably didn’t even see him play once. What a god awful trade proposal. Your knowledge of the NBA is pathetic!

By huh

June 21, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this

Dunk i know where your coming from but if im not mistaken Josh Childress had a higher recorded vertical than Iguadola at the pre draft measurements and we all know Josh Childress is not as athletic as Iguoadala. Now im not saying Josh is not athletic because he is but I still dont see how he had a higher vert than Iguadola because that guy is jumping out of the building. I like Horford but I just dont see how this guy is the 3rd best talent in the draft. I just didnt see him do anything at Florida that made me go damn that guys is a monster. I know we play in the east and its weak but I just dont see in Horford what others are. To add to the vertical subject. Luke Jackson vertical was measured higher than Loul Deng, J.R. Smith , Dwight Howard , Josh Childress, and Andre Iguodala. So you cant put much faith in those vertical measurements because I highly doubt Luke Jackson is leaping higher than any of these guys. ..http://cavs.fanmonster.com/articles/0014.htm

the link to show i wasnt making it up.

By Remembering Roundfield

June 22, 2007 12:07 AM | Link to this

Even though I agree that Horford and Crittenton would be ideal for the Hawks both now and in the future, I can’t help wondering what could happen if they traded down in the lottery for a very good ‘big’(Villanueva,perhaps?) and maybe the 7,8,or 9 pick,use it on Yi and still be able to take Critt at #11. Then everyone would be raving about what a genius BK is and the Hawks would be in great shape for years to come. To get 3 great players out of 2 draft picks would definitely shift the balance of power in the east and make our Hawks the envy of the league!

By Samuel I AM

June 22, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Good going Mark. Now you will have every Kings fan thinking there is a trade in the works for Bibby now. These next few days should be fun on the msg boards. Can’t you guys keep your trade ideas to yourselves? Don’t post any trade suggestions unless their is proof behind them. Now everyone think there are rumors out there.

By yea lets take horford

June 22, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

Marquee Performances:

He was a pretty constant player throughout his three seasons in the SEC, and he did record a career-high 22 points and 13 rebounds against Tennessee in early February. In that game he bullied his way to the foul line sixteen times, also a career-high. In the first round of the 2007 NCAA Tournament against Jackson State Horford was at his best, scoring 15 points and grabbing 16 boards in just twenty-nine minutes of play.

Yea this is really a guy I want (note the sarcasm) The guy was an average player people. He did not have one dominating game yet people think he will have the effect Okafur or Amare has had in the NBA. get the heck out of here.

By Nick

June 22, 2007 12:10 AM | Link to this

vdunkndunk, I merely point you here:

http://clipperblog.com/index.php?itemid=367

An honest assessment of Crittenton, and really, I couldn’t say it better myself.

I’ll take the steady leadership and good decision making from Conley over Crittenton’s strength and size any day.

As for the Billups comparison, he was drafted in 1997. 1997! He bounced around the league - Celtics, Raptors, Nuggets, Timberwolves, Detroit - for six years before starting to come into his own in 2003.

Needless to say, I hate the Billups comparison. Lets hope that Crittenton’s fate isn’t the same if the Hawks do (ugh) pick him.

By JohnGTfan

June 22, 2007 12:12 AM | Link to this

Of course a very important question…is anyone actually going to show up at ATL’s draft party after what BK pulled last year?

By tony

June 22, 2007 12:23 AM | Link to this

JohnGTfan, I don’t have to be rude to put you in your place. First of all, there is a different between a SG and a PG. A SG primary responsibility is to score points through the perimeter shooting. A true PG’s job is to create scoring opportunity for his team. He does the passing, setting up plays on the court and exert a leadership role on the floor. Points generated from layups are no different from generating points from the perimeter. They’re all the same thing, POINTS! Conley scored 11 ppg and could have scored more if he wanted to play SG which is not his natural position. I take it that you didn’t watch Armond Hill back in the 70s. The hawks took him in the 1st rd and he improve the team tremendously. He didn’t shoot a high % but he did the little things to make the team successful. He was an excellant passer and ball-handler. He put up great assist numbers. Conley will contribute the same way.

By JohnGTfan

June 22, 2007 12:36 AM | Link to this

genius, you’re the one who called him the best “shooting PG” in this draft…you still haven’t answered…because you can’t

By puck

June 22, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

God, what a homer article. Mark Bradley grow a pair Taking another F is a fallacy. We have to many that need development time. Sheldon, Marvin, Chills, Josh Smith -Why do they not deserve some minutes? Why should we believe that the next guy is better than the last guy. We need to build a team and unless someone can point to a decent big trade that BK has made with us (there isn’t one, I’ve tried), then we have to build through the draft. And that includes not blocking the players we currently have. Unless we get players who play different positions, we always will be in last place and laughed at.

By vdunkndunk

June 22, 2007 12:52 AM | Link to this

Nick, we all know that Critt had some trouble running the offense at times - especially the first half of the season but also later in the season at times as well. I won’t argue that point.

The thing is, though, he was a freshman PG starting in the ACC on a young team without any other legitimate PG’s to back him up or show him the ropes. To struggle in that kind of situation is normal. It takes most PG’s a couple of years to figure it out….it’s fairly rare for PG’s to even be considered in lottery after just one season.

So yeah, Critt had his ups and downs. But there’s no reason to think he won’t figure things out over time. I also think some guys are more suited for the NBA game than for the college style of play, and I think Critt is one of them. He also really started to improve over the second half of the season - you could see the lightbulb coming on.

Of course, I’m not saying that Critt is going to come in and be our savior right away, because that’s just not going to happen. And it’s too much to ask of Critt OR even of Conely. But that doesn’t mean that Critt can’t develop into a very good PG.

And since the Hawks aren’t winning a championship next year one way or the other, this is a good opportunity to add both a good big man who can help right away and a good PG prospect who can help in the future.

Mostly I just think Horford plus Critt is the best value for our money - better than Critt and whatever marginal big man happens to fall to number 11.

In the NBA plenty of guards taken outside of the lottery turn into great players - just to name a few off the top of my head, look at Steve Nash, Tony Parker, Gilbert Arenas, Michael Redd, Manu Ginobli, John Stockton, Sam Cassell, or Kobe Bryant.

But John Hollinger wrote an article a few months back detailing how rare it is for big men to pan out when they’re drafted outside the top 10, and it’s not pretty. Better to take the sure thing in Horford, then roll the dice with Critt (or Law or even Stuckey).

By tony

June 22, 2007 1:16 AM | Link to this

JohnGTfan, you’re just too hostile to call a person by their when things aren’t going your way could you? I prove my point before my last comment. He shot 52% from the field. NOW, IF YOU WANT TO FIND OUT HOW HE SHOT A HIGH %, THAT’S ON YOU MY FRIEND. He score 3 ppg less than Crittenton, so he shot the ball more than what you give him credit for. He average 6 assist ppg, so if he wanted to, he could have selfishly kept those points for himself which would have given him 24 ppg instead of 11 ppg not counting the shots miss from his passes. I will tell you this. In the last 5 games in the NCAA Tournament, he step it up big time. He score 18 ppg in those games. SO, GO FIGURE BUD.

By Jay

June 22, 2007 1:20 AM | Link to this

Bradley, stick to writing about other sports because you’re clueless on the Hawks.

1. Josh Smith AND the 11 for Bibby? ARE YOU KIDDING? Bibby isnt worth Josh Smith straight up! And Bibby is almost over the hill. Come on.

2. Almost a center? We dont need another “almost” center because we drafted two last year. You sound like a Knightmare apologist…”we’ll he’s almost a center, so be happy with that”. Give me a break. Why not draft a real center instead of an almost center?

3. Ok, so lets say we play Horford and Josh Smith. Where does that leave Marvin? On the bench. We’d have a #2 and a #5 rotting on the bench with stiffs at pg and center still. Thats just poor team assembly. Why do that to ourselves?

4. Your Calvin Johnson comparison is nearsighted. Football teams can play multiple receivers and are rotating players in and out almost every play. They also have 11 players on the field at one time. Basketball has none of that. Think a basketball team would carry 5 or 6 power forwards? No. So Horford and Johnson’s situation dont compare.

By BWA

June 22, 2007 1:38 AM | Link to this

QUESTION:

How many POWER FORWARDS do the Hawks have on thier roster? Marvin Williams is NOT a PF! Josh Smith is not a PF! Shelden struggled last year at PF and is more suited as an undersized C! Okay, Solomon Jones is a PF… But who else?

I can not stand it when people say we don’t need another forward! People, there are 2 types of forwards on a basketball team. (It is ridiculous that I even have to explain this!) The SMALL forward and the POWER forward. Small forwards are slashers and jumpshooter. Power forwards play with their back to the basket and have a midrange jumpshot.

Who on this Hawks team plays effectively with their back to the basket. NO ONE!!! Do we have one natural POWER FORWARD on this team! NO!

So all you idiots who say we don’t need another forward, needs to read this post to understand that we desperately need a forward…a POWER FORWARD.

Yes, we need a point guard. But, it can and will be address with the #11 pick. And trust me, don’t be surprised if Conley fall in our laps at the #11.

By superman

June 22, 2007 1:57 AM | Link to this

vdundndunk Your make some good points. i agree with a lot of your opinions. The Hawks have to take the big guy first and I think Conley will be there at 11. Memphis at 4 will not take Conley wtih B. Wright available, and they already have Kyle Lowery at PG whom they were in love with before his injury last year. Boston at #5 already said they WILL NOT take a PG. Milwaukee will then take Corey Brewer. Minnesota has Randy Foye at the point. So they will try to get Garnett some help. Charlotte, Chicago and Sacramento have no need for a PG. So if the Hawks don’t pick Conley at 3 he WILL be available at 11. Only the Hawks will consider drafting a PG who can’t shoot a jumpshot with the 3 picks. They already got one Speedy point guard who can’t shoot.

By tony

June 22, 2007 2:06 AM | Link to this

BWA, be a man and call someone an idiot in person. Don’t hide behind this MB and call someone an idiot like a little coward. First of all, your favorite GM(BK) drafted forwards four consecutive seasons and if he so foolishly draft 1 this year, that will be 5 consecutive forwards. They call some of them PF and others SF during the course of the season. See they keep flip floping them to different position, so no one really knows what position they will have them playing. WE NEED TO ADDRESS THE MOST IMPORTANT POSITION ON A TEAM - A POINT GUARD After that, we need to address the center position.

By BWA

June 22, 2007 2:10 AM | Link to this

You are absolutely right superman! Conley is going to fall to the #11 pick.

By BWA

June 22, 2007 2:35 AM | Link to this

tony, what is your point? As I said, the Hawks currently do not have any back-to-the-basket players on this team. Whether you call that a forward or not, this is a need that has to be addressed!

I will retract the idiot statement, however. It’s just that I keep hearing the same things. People are so stuck on the FORWARD thing, and the fact that they don’t like BK, that it is imposible for you all to make a sound judgement. Like picking Mike Conley at the #3 pick is absolutely ridiculous!

Look at the teams from 4 to 10.
4 Memphis- they want Al Horford 5 Boston- Ainge said he doesn’t want a PG 6 Milwaukee- needs a SF-Corey Brewer 7 Minnesota- Foye will start at PG 8 Charlotte- Chris Paul 9 Chicago- Hinrich, Duhon 10 Sacramento- Bibby, and they need a SF-Jeff Green

The Hawks will be sitting at the #11 pick with 3 point guards to choose from!

Don’t be so impulsive with picking a point guard at #3 just because we made the mistake of passing on Deron Williams and Chris Paul. That was the past. We must move forward and make smart decisons that are logical and not based on emotion.

By Eric

June 22, 2007 2:36 AM | Link to this

MAYBE NO ONE HAS HEARD, BUT BILLY KNIGHT IS WORKING ON A DEAL THAT WOULD BRING ZACH RANDOLPH AND JARRETT JACK TO ATLANTA FOR THE 3RD AND A PLAYER.

By travis

June 22, 2007 3:12 AM | Link to this

eric, maybe YOU haven’t heard that you should type in all CAPS. and please don’t come in hear making claims without facts. most of the bloggers on here come with hardcore facts. where did you hear this trade from?

By tony

June 22, 2007 3:17 AM | Link to this

BWA, the hawks were 24th in the league in assists and 28th in FG%. A PF nor a Center will improve those statistics without a floor manager. We need a TRUE POINT GUARD who is capable of creating separation off the dribble to create scoring opportunities for the team. Mike Conley is the only TRUE POINT GUARD in this draft who is capable of this. If that BK trade our 3rd pick for Jack and Randolph, this will be his last season in the ATL. Portland will certainly be in the playoff with Oden and Conley and the hawks will be worse off this year than last year. Jack didn’t put up better numbers the Tyrron Lue and Randolph is just another forward. THE ONLY WAY TO GET BK OUT OF ATLANTA, WE HAVE TO BOYCOTT THE GAMES. I am for that 100%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Halsey

June 22, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

This year’s First Team All NBA Center was Amare Stoudamire. He’s listed at 6’10, 245 lbs. The same height and weight as Al Horford. If Horford can play Center, and allow the Hawks to keep Josh Smith and Marvin Williams on the floor, then i’m all for the Hawks taking him. A starting front line of Marvin Williams-Josh Smith-Al Horford would mightr work real well. That would make Shelden Williams a backup and require the Hawks to basically admit that they messed up by taking him #5 last year. the #11 pick better be a PG though.

By BWA

June 22, 2007 3:55 AM | Link to this

Once again, tony, I agree we need a point guard. But you refuse to admit that we need a power forward on this team— which we DO NOT have. Hell, we need a lot of things to be a playoff/ championship contender. Point guard, power forward, and center.

I do agree with you 100% about Randolph and Jack. That trade will be an absolute mistake. Portland will be dumping their unwanted players on the Hawks, while they maintain a very good young team that will most likely make the playoffs next season.

I will say, that your hate for BK is not constructive. Are you a Hawks fan or just someone living in Atlanta who roots for the Spurs, Suns, or some other hot team that is currently winning? I do not agree with every move that the Hawks have made in the past, but I still hope for the best. All the negativity is hurting the moral of this team. No wonder Phillips Arena is always empty, unless Kobe or LeBron is playing.

By TYBEEDAWG

June 22, 2007 3:56 AM | Link to this

take the chinese center first. GET HIM!!!! The pg position can be filled. A sleeper is Anthony Atkinson, from Barton, the DII hero.We have plenty of cap room. trade #11 and one of the overpopulated PF for a good leader vet. take a hard look at Atkinson. undersized, maybe….but one helluva court leader.

By Eric

June 22, 2007 4:35 AM | Link to this

I keep reading these comments and none of them make sense, does anybody know anything about N.B.A. basketball beside me. First, there are no true centers in the league besides Shaq and Yao. Tim Duncan is a power forward and he has four rings, so stop making the comment about he’s just another forward!!! The Hawks are the youngest team in the entire league, we don’t need the picks we need vets. We are still waiting on Marvin to develop, Josh is starting to turn the corner. I don’t want to wait another 3 years for Conley and whoever else to materialize.

By cashmere

June 22, 2007 5:13 AM | Link to this

HORFORD AND CITT IF WERE LUCKY BTW THIS IS THE WORSE DRAFT BRAK DOWN IVE READ THIS YEAR.SEKOU DOES BETTER THAN THIS CRAP

By mike

June 22, 2007 6:32 AM | Link to this

of course they will take a forward. I wouldn’t be shocked to see them take one at # 11 too. Who needs guards

By Mike

June 22, 2007 6:57 AM | Link to this

Conley at # 3 and Hawes at # 11. Passing up on Paul, Williams, Roy, Felton, Bobby Jackson, Mike James, Anthony Parker are why we are in this mess.

By Big Kev

June 22, 2007 7:17 AM | Link to this

If the Hawks keep their picks, wouldn’t it make a lot of sense to pick Horford at 3 and Spencer Hawes at 11. Then you would have a much better inside team, and you could package speedy and marvin to another team for a veteran point and maybe anther late first/early 2nd pick. What about Philadelphia? Would they not take a combo of marvin/Speedy in exchange for a 2nd round pick and Andre Miller?

By Contra

June 22, 2007 7:19 AM | Link to this

horford at 3 and law at 11

end of discussion

By e-smoove

June 22, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

I just hope we don´t make any trades. The less we do while BK is in charge, the better it will be for the franchise. Phoenix is still laughing over the JJ deal and will be again next year when they get the #1 overall. The hawks aren´t going to the playoffs next year, no matter what they do.

By Patman

June 22, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

More stupidity from Mr “Give up three players for Rex Chapman!” As stupid as the notion of drafting Al Horford was, I gave Bradley the benefit of the doubt until he suggested trading Josh smith as part of a package for Mike Bibby! I thought that all sports columnists (and yes that includes AJC with their low standards) had to take drug tests! It’s a good thing Bradley isn’t a GM or he’d make Billy Knight look like Joe Dumars!

By tony

June 22, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

BWA, the problem with you is that - you won’t admitt the fact that we literally have 3 PF on this team so we can take your favorite player, HORFORD, despite how important it is for us to take a TRUE POINT GUARD. ERIC, like it or not, TIM DUNCAN was drafted as a CENTER which was his natural position in college. The Spurs change his position because at the time D.Robinson played the CENTER position. They hawks drafted Kelvin Willis as a CENTER but he was used as a PF because Tree Rollins played the CENTER position. Josh Smith, Sheldon William, Solomon Jones are all PF. They list Josh as a SF and Marvin William as a PF when it should be the other way around. This team has been a sub 500 team for 8 consecutive season. The reason that is - is because they never replace Mookie Blaylock with player who could manage floor, who has good floor vision, who has great passing ability, who has the ability to create separation and space off the dribble and could create scoring opportunity for the team. With Mookie, the hawks had 7 consecutive winning season. When Mookie departed, the hawks had 0 winning season. When the hawks drafted Armond Hill and Doc Rivers, they had more winning seasons than losing seasons. Until the hawks get a TRUE POINT GUARD, they will never amount to anything. MIKE CONLEY is our future FOLKS! BELIEVE IT OR NOT!

By J. Shuttlesworth

June 22, 2007 7:51 AM | Link to this

Josh Smtih and a pick for Bibby???? I don’t know where to start with that one.

1. Bibby is coming up on 30.
2. He’s getting paid 14mil a year, meaning it’d take half our roster to match salaries for a trade.
3. Between JJ, Bibby, Speedy and the 2 old men (Lue and A. Johnson) we’d have a $40mil back-court.
4. Bibby ain’t no dang Josh Smith (who better get locked up to an extension this summer). Anyone who watches the NBA knows that.

Thanks again, AJC. Keep it up.

By J

June 22, 2007 8:01 AM | Link to this

As much as I am not a Bradley fan, I hate to have to agree w/ him on this post. Horford is more of a true PF/C type, and we all know that a decent PG will be there at 11 (hopefully we get Law).

By Greg

June 22, 2007 8:02 AM | Link to this

With this pick we won’t make the playoffs for another 2years. It will be 12 tweleve years before we see post season action again. The 20 years to make it past the 1st round.

Also if we make this pick you can gaurantee JSmith will not be in a Hawk uniform after this season. This sets up his trade.

The goal for the Hawk organization is not winning but to be in the playoff picture, and save money with draft picks that keeps your payroll low. WE DO NOT WANT TO WIN.

By eddiedawg

June 22, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this

at this point, just don’t draft another project and then tell us to be patient….we’ve had it with the young developers….I think they should trade 3 and 11 and get a veteran rather than gamble on a draft pick…but Bradley’s choice makes some sense…Horford is ready to make an impact now….but this Billy Knight….he may draft Thaddeus Young with the 3 pick….why does this moron BK STILL HAVE A JOB??

By travis

June 22, 2007 8:29 AM | Link to this

BK still has a job because the Spirit Group is in disarray. Belkin and the Group would have to agree on a new GM and/or a new coach and you know that won’t happen, so the GM and Coach are safe, atleast for another year. Besides, no one would want to come here with a “schitzo” ownership group

By destin

June 22, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

I think we have to be realistic about a couple of things before we decide the best way to put this team together. First, to think that the Hawks will be a serious contender in the next couple of years is ridiculous. Second, we cannot get a first-rate NBA center in this draft. So, we need to obtain a quality center through a trade. As long as it’s a ‘good’ deal for us, nobody on the team should be untouchable including JJ (whom we all love)

Yi provides the most upside with our #3 pick. You can put on weight and become stronger, but you can’t strech a 6’9” person into 7 feet. Yi is tall (has the body to put on weight), is fast, can handle the ball, is a good passer, can shoot the 18-20 footer, can play 4 different positions depending on the match-up, good work ethic and attitude, etc.
At #11 go with Crit — again, looking 2 years down the road, we need to assemble a cast of potential stars.

By J

June 22, 2007 8:35 AM | Link to this

J, tell me, why do we need another PF? This team FG% was 28th in the league - we were 24th in assists, 5th in steals, 9th in blocks and 22nd in rebounding. “PLEASE EXPLAIN SIR”. Mark Bradley said that Mike Conley didn’t make more than 2 treys last year. If you agree with this guy, then you are as delusional as he is. Conley average 18 ppg in the last 5 games in the NCAA Tournament and his assist total didn’t drop off that much. Whoever get this kid will become a suceessful organization and I will never stop saying “I TOLD YOU SO”!

By Dan

June 22, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this

OK I have it up to here with the stupidity on Sports radio and these BLOGS. All I keep hearing that we waisted a pick on Shelden Williams well who was out there last year anyway oh yea Brandon Roy…..oh I forgot we had JOE JOHNSON who plays the same position so please tell me would Brandon have started oops and oh yea we have already Childress and Stoudamire already backing up JOE JOHNSON so yea Brandon Roy would have fitted in great with our team…idiots…oh we could have had Chris Paul well you know what we dont but we have Marvin and you know what he should be coming into his own this year do you realize we got him when he was 18…idiots…Do you realize if we hadnt taken young players we wouldnt have ended up in the top of the draft for the last few years…if we would have traded them away for old players so now we have the luxury of developing a team with young players that can be here for 10 years playing together…idiots….You know what if I cant get Aldridge for the #3 or Gasol I dont want some old vet. BUILD through the draft and sign free agents is how you build a team….period… just like football, baseball and hockey. For you idiots out there its called depth. We draft 2 more young guys and we have depth that can run run and run and interchange them out and run the other team off the court with our players not getting tired. I keep hearing oh he will screw this up not another forward well why not? We have 2 picks and are pressing needs is a young guard and center so if we pick a guard are there any centers worthy in this draft ah..no…idiots….Is Conley the answer ah no…can he shoot no oh but he can pass…well think about it having Crittenton at 11 someone who can pass, rebound and oh yea a 6’5 guard that can see the entire court and play defense. So our # 3 should be the player with the most potential and that should Brandon Wright. Lets say Joe Johnson gets hurt this year wouldnt it have been nice to see Josh Smith moved to shooting guard and you could have had Brandon Wright and Marvin as your forwards. Or lets go big lets say Critteton takes a break durung a game and move Joe Johnson to point and you have Brandon, Marvin and Josh playing also at the same time… Can you imagine for a second what they are going to be like if they play together for awhile…This team would be better than Cleveland and I only forsee Chicago being the only challenger in the EAST. Detroit and Miami are getting old…..idiots

By Danny

June 22, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

I keep hearing trade the pics for vets well you know we are lucky right now picking in the top of the draft for the last few years in building this team. You know what all those players we drafted are still on the team so Billy must be doing alright. I also thought we blew up this team in the beginning to start over ? And the last time I heard we traded one of our top pics to get a vet remember we traded Gasol and wouldnt you rather have him back? Oh yea and those bashers of Shelden hello he was a rookie last year…

By GatorFan

June 22, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this

I really hope the Hawks don’t take Al. Not because it would be a bad pic, because I don’t want to see his career ruined.

The problem with relying on his stats (or any of the oh-fours’) is that they played as a team. Horford, Brewer or Noah could have easily taken more shots and had better individual numbers if they wanted.

Horford would bring a winning, team attitude to the Hawks. The questions is, will they suck it out of him?

By eddiedawg

June 22, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this

Hey Dan…. You are an idiot…yeah building throught the draft is great in theory, but you have to DEVELOP those players to get better….um, did our big first rounder last yr get better?? I think not…Sheldon did not improve his game…about the only one who has is Josh Smith, and he is still streaky at best….and to the other idiot above who said BK must be doing something right all his players are still here…ARE U KIDDING ME?? No one WANTS these players, you moron….Ill say it again GET A PROVEN VETERAN!!

By eddiedawg

June 22, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Hey Dan…. You are an idiot…yeah building throught the draft is great in theory, but you have to DEVELOP those players to get better….um, did our big first rounder last yr get better?? I think not…Sheldon did not improve his game…about the only one who has is Josh Smith, and he is still streaky at best….Childress? No devepmnt….Saleem?? riding the pine…Marvin?? some, but not enough….and to the other idiot above who said BK must be doing something right all his players are still here…ARE U KIDDING ME?? No one WANTS these players, you moron….Ill say it again GET A PROVEN VETERAN!!

By freddie

June 22, 2007 9:24 AM | Link to this

Why cann’t I get excited about the Hawks taking Horford??? I think he is was a very good player on a very good team but if he played for - say - Auburn I’m thinking he would not be mentioned for the #3.

By tony

June 22, 2007 9:26 AM | Link to this

Dan, if you’re going to call someone an idiot, please say it to a person’s face and not behind this MB like a little coward! First of all you are a complete liar about Conley can’t shoot. He shoot 52% from the field. That’s the highest amonst the PGs in this draft. He average 18 ppg in the last 5 games in the NCAA Tournament. BK had 4 seasons to make this team a 500 ball club but fail to even come close to making this team a 500 ball club. And since you’re on BK’s bandwagon, please explain how Mike Woodson gets a pass after 3 years of coaching this team but Lon Kruger get’s fired after 3 seasons. Lon Kruger winning percentage was .375 - Mike Woodson winning percentage is .281 The problem with this organization, they’re not committed to winning. I SAY BOYCOTT THE GAMES UNTIL THEY SHIP OUT THE WHOLE TEAM, THAT WAY WE CAN GET A NEW OWNER WHO IS COMMITTED TO WINNING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By steve brown

June 22, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this

How about this for playing the race card-the Hawks have no center and no one has even whispered about Hawes at 11. I’ve seen film and the kid can play and he is a true center, at least on the offensive end. A white center on the Hawks brings back “interesting” memories!

By Sautee

June 22, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

I’m not saying that Horford at #3 is the best pick, but I WILL say that the current NBA player he reminds me most is Carlos Boozer. Would you trade the #3 straight up for Boozer today? Can Horford score like Boozer - not in his first year (neither did Carlos)but his overall game is great. Imagine a post presence able to hit a cutter for a layup, or drawing a double and passing out to JJ for a 3.

By Mitch

June 22, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this

What irks me to no end is how Billy Knight has no clue when it comes to building a basketball team…nor does he have any concern for style of play when he drafts.

The Hawks should be an up-tempo team becaus of their youth and athleticism…so WHY aren’t they?

They do no have a shot blocking center to trigger the fast break on the defensive end.

And they do not a point guard with speed and penetration skills.

If the Hawks do not draft Mike Conley at #3 and Sean Williams at #11…clearly the perfect puzzle pieces for what the Hawks need…it will only further confirm Billy Knight’s glaring and egeregious ineptitude.

By mavid

June 22, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

I agree about Horford.

That J-smoove trade was straight retarded tho.

By Dawg47

June 22, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this

My god. I agree with Mark Bradley. 15 and 8 his rookie season, 18 and 9 his second, and an all-star game his third.

By Dawg47

June 22, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

And Mitch, the fact you think an undeveloped 19 year old with a bad jump shot and a guy booted off his college team are “clearly the perfect puzzle pieces” just shows that you’ve been either eating paint chips or smoking the same stuff that Williams has.

By vdunkndunk

June 22, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this

When someone says a player “can’t shoot,” they meant hat the player can’t shoot jumpshots. Shaq has led the NBA in field-goal percentage for something like 9 out of the last 10 years, but he’s not a “shooter.”

And Conely isn’t a shooter either - this is a guy who barely hit .30% of his college 3-point atteempts and who doesn’t have range out to the NBA 3-point line. Simple as that. He may develop his jump shot, but right not he doesn’t have one. His field-goal percentage is great, but that’s because he gets a lot of layups, not because he has a nice jumpshot.

By rt

June 22, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this

look al horford is not the answer, he is a clone of shelden williams. except he didnt even have the credentials shelden had. shelden was like two time all-american, and like two time ncaa defenive player of the year. so i don think horford will be anywhere as good as shelden. trust me horford is just another long term project.

we also need to stop beating around the bush and get a true 5, why cant we get noah?

honestly it seems to me that if the hawks want to win in the draft is to trade down to the bucks for vilanueva, and draft the best point available at 11 which will most likely be(conley, law, crittenton)

By SWGhawk

June 22, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

How about a trade like this: Hawks send Joe Johnson, Marvin Williams and the # 3 pick to Orlando for Dwight Howard and Grant Hill. Then the Hawks use the #11 to pick Critteton. Hawks lineup looks like this: Hill, Howard, Smith, Sheldon, Crittenton. Would that work out? Would the Magic give up Howard.

By vdunkndunk

June 22, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this

Horford is not a Shelden clone. Horford is an inch taller, he has an extra 3-inches on Shelden in standing reach, he has a much better vertical leap, and he’s much faster.

That’s just the physical measureables.

Never mind the fact that Horford also has a much more polished post-game, much better ballhandling skills, a better midrange jumpshot, and was used at times to break full-court pressure with his ballhandling - something that no one would ever ask Shelden Williams to do.

And then, what about the perception of NBA talent evaluators? Shelden was a reach as a senior in a weaker draft class with the number 5 pick, whereas Horford as a junior is the consensus top 3 pick in a much deeper draft. So that right there should tell you there’s a difference between Shelden and Horford in terms of pro potential.

By Volman

June 22, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

First off,

Look in the AJC around Sunday for the new uniforms! Sweet! (this is from Bernie Mullin when he was on 680)

Second,

Acie Law cancels his final workout with the Hornets. Source

What does this mean? Will he be going to the Hawks at #11? I hope so!! He’s what this team needs I think!

alright, that’s all I have for now.

By rt

June 22, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

are you serious are you really comparing al horford to calvin johnson? that has got to be the stupidest comparison i have ever heard. calvin johnson was the best player in college football. al horford was nowhere near the best player in college basketball. calvin was more like the durant of his draft class. o and stop saying this guy is gonna be good, he still has to develop.

By Jay-D

June 22, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this

Orlando would not do that. Howard is untouchable. He’s not getting traded unless it’s for a Lebron or the 1st pick in the draft.

As an aside, it’s clear you need a good point guard who can shoot and distribute. Bibby is that point guard. He had a bad year last year by his standards (17, 5 and 3) while playing for a horrible coach who had no idea how to run a team, and he also had a bad wrist injury for a long time. Would you trade Speedy, Marvin Williams and the 11th pick for Bibby? Then draft Horford (or whoever with the 3rd) and have a very strong lineup of Bibby, JJ, J Smith, Horford and Pryz. With S.Williams and J chill on the bench that’s a very solide lineup in the east as well as having a very talented young team. Draft or trade for a young PG and have him learn from Bibby. Bibby would be great to have in that role, he’s one of the best PGs a young PG could learn from.

By Volman

June 22, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this

“stupidest”???

By sammy

June 22, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this

Over the last 5 years the Hawks have the lowest winning percentage of any professional franchise in sports. Hawk fans need to keep in mind these is no first round draft pick next year. Due to the Hawks unstable ownership issue, they are not in a position to make a trade and pickup a new sizeable contract. BK believes that Speedy is his answer as a starting PG. Thus he will not draft Mike Conley. My prediction is he will take Horford @ 3 and trade the 11th pick for a first round pick in 2008. Thus allowing the Hawks to have another 30 win season.

By Mash

June 22, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Mark, I agree that Horford wouldn’t be that bad. But Crittenden? Come on, does this team need another project on a team full of projects? And if we trade Josh Smith, that’d be unbelievably dumb. Mike Conley, Jr. is on par with Deron Williams and Chris Paul and is still the best choice. I won’t gripe on the basis of Horford alone, but if we take Critt over Acie Law (or as you suggest Conley!) I will gripe. Or, more likely, we’ll take Horford and Yi, Brandon Wright, or Jeff Green. This is the Hawks we’re talking about.

By Sam

June 22, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

I love this concept and have been emailing it prior to this article to every writer on AJC.com and ESPN.com hoping to get Bibby on the Hawks radar.

Josh Smith is great but he’s NOT worth MAX money. He’s going to want MAX money and breaking the bank for someone as inconsistent as he is right now is not a smart biz move.

I’m fine trading Josh and Marvin or Childress. The remaining player, Marvin or Childress will be the long-term small forward with Horford at the 4 position. If we can retain Sheldon to be Al’s backup, great. If not, ship him out too in order to make the Bibby #’s work.

By Jonas Titas

June 22, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this

Mike Bibby? Give up Josh Smith and the 11 for Mike Bibby? Surely you must be joking. Why not give up the same assets for Nate Archibald?

Your rationale here is that J Smith is going to be a free agent and you’re going to loose him anyways because there is a glut of forwards. We should draft another forward to replace him. Does that make any sense? Why not draft players for roles and re-sign them so that they can learn and develop together and then win together.

Or keep making the same mistakes.

By JJ

June 22, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

we betta select a pg becuz Joe Johnson might not want to stick around and wait.

By Billy Goodnight

June 22, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are being led by the dumbest management ever. This tops the stupidity of the Smith family. If we draft Horford, we’ve just cemented ourselves into idiotville. We need size like Yi Jianlian and a point gaurd.

By KB

June 22, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

Gang, it is time to get rid of Billy Knight. Al Hordford would be a great addition to this time had not Mr. Knight drafted M. Williams and S. Williams the two year before. We don’t need another small or power forward on this team.

LET ME TAKE OVER THE DRAFT!!!! I would first keep my two draft picks. My #3 pick would be J. Critten and my #11 pick would be (if he is still there) S. Hawnes of Washington. Next move, package a deal together and get rid of A. Johnson, J. Childress, S. Soudimire, R. Ivey, and E. Bastisa (maybe Boston, Golden State, or Dallase are foolish enough to make a deal.)

All and all, I would not let B. Knight engineer another draft. For all his blust and bunder, his moves look like the same of his processor, Steve Babcock. And he was bum when it came to putting a roster together!!!!!!

By ur crazy mark

June 22, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley or should I call you Milton Bradley because your article wouldn’t even be sold at Toys R Us. Hell do you have a brain, because much like the robots that come with “no batteries included”, appear to be like your head, no brain included. I mean come on bro, how do you have a job and better yet, how do you have a job that lets you post articles like this. Oh by the way, I didn’t read past trade/package, our best player, yes our best player, J Smooth and the 11th pick for, on the down side of his career, Mike Bibby. I’ll use a line from our previous falcons skipper’s Sr, You kidding me? Don’t talk about Mike Bibby, you wanna talk Mike Bibby? Do you watch the Hawks Mark, I mean Milton, obviously not or you would realize that simply J Smooth for Mike Bibby straight up would be the worse move in Hawks history outside of the human highlight trade that brought in the oh, much of the same as Bibby, a washed up Danny Manning. You see Milto the clown, us fokes who actually have been a life long Hawk fan are trying to get away from trades like that, perhaps you haven’t notice while shopping at Toys R Us. I wouldn’t even trade our 11th pick for Mike Bibby. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I don’t like Mike Bibby, infact, I’ve followed his career since his Wild Cat days and would love to have him running our point, just not for our 11th pick and certainly, “YOU KIDDING ME”, for our 11th pick and our best player since the human highlight, J Smooth. Yeah I said it, mark it down Markie Milto, J Smooth will be better than J.J.

By kg

June 22, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this

If BK liked Conley as a player, it wouldn’t matter to him if the pick was 3 or 1. Look what he did with Sheldon Williams who no one in the league felt that he was worth a 5. Bk is not about building a team, but rather assembling good, athletic players. That’s a huge difference. That said, I would have to agree with Bradley on what BK is thinking.

By HarryTheHawked

June 22, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

We all know that no matter who the brilliant front office of the Atlanta Hawks picks in the first round they will make a mistake.

By Aron

June 22, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

I watch tons of Big Ten basketball and avidly follow the Illini. Conley has pretty good form on his shot. I have no doubt he would become a very competent shooter from the outside by his 3rd year in college.

My Deron Williams was not a good outside shooter his freshman but by the time he was a junior, he was very solid and is still continuing to improve.

If Conley had bad mechanics, that would be worrisome. He will become a good shooter.

I think it would be folly to pass him up at #3.

By Rory

June 22, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Horford is ready now and comes from a successful program. But so was Shelden Williams.

By Eric

June 22, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

It’s so obvious that I am the only Hawks fan commenting on this, because if any of you were you have to know that the Hawks must trade one or both of the picks. I keep reading all the negative comments, yes I believe the Hawks will make the PLAYOFFS next year but only if they bring in some VETS.

By Adonis Betances

June 22, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

I really think that Al Hordford will be a great member of the Hawk’s if picked. I don’t believe the he is Weak at all!!!! His numbers were well deserve with the organization of the Gator’s. He is ready… I don’t believe that the media made these numbers up. Al (GodFather)hope to see you in the Hawk’s….

By Kristen Veras

June 22, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

Al will make a great addition to the team because he is an overall great player and selfless. He cares more about the team and their success rather then getting all the attention. He is a team player unlike most players today. The site couldnt even list a real weakness. I am excited about Al being a new addition to the team.

By Bianca Betances

June 22, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

I beilive Al would be a great asset to the Hawk’s organization. He’s familar the being under pressure, he seemed more mature than than the other players in his team. He put up very good numbers when it mattered. I think time will make him a better outside shooter

By Mitch

June 22, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Al Horford is a nice player…no question. But he was not an especially good defender at Florida.

Sean Williams was a lights-out defender at BC.

The Hawks don’t need a scoring center; they have one in Zaza Pachulia.

Sean Williams’ presence in the paint would allow the team to play more aggressive defensively…which, in turn, means more steals, fast breaks, layups and dunks.

There’s no player in this draft more dynamic in the paint defensively than Williams.

His offensive game has been improving impressively while working out with John Lucas. So has his free throw shooting.

Sean Williams won’t make it past #17 (Nets)…and, as Chad Ford, all the scouts he talked to said Williams was a top ten talent. To get Wiliams at #11 would be a gift. Shot blockers like him are rare to find. This kid is special.

By Lenny

June 22, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

How many times are the Hawks going to pass on a point guard ? Conley can beat you off the dribble and is a leader. Do you thin Ohio St makes the finals without him ?

By Eric

June 22, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

Billy Knight if you are reading this, make that trade with Portland!!! This would be your starting line-up

pg Jarrett Jack sg Joe Johnson f Marvin Williams pf Josh Smith c Zack Randolph

By Mark Bradley

June 22, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

About Bibby (and also about Josh Smith): He (meaning Bibby) isn’t yet 30 and still had a higher scoring average (by 0.1 ppg) last season than Chauncey Billups, who is 30. I don’t see Bibby as the league’s greatest point guard or even as one of the top five, but he’s rather better than Speedy Claxton. If the Hawks truly desire a veteran PG, as opposed to a rookie, Bibby seems (to me, if to nobody else) a viable option. And the Hawks are going to have to make a major decision regarding Smith in the next 12 months: Is he worth a windfall re-up contract, or would he be better deployed as trade bait for the long-missing piece (i.e., a point guard)? And for someone who suggested Smith is the Hawks’ best player … sorry, he isn’t. Joe Johnson is.

By Chops

June 22, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

Mark, do you even watch basketball? First, Josh Smith + the 11th pick for Mike Bibby would never work under the salary cap. Plus, why would you want Mike Bibby to run an up-tempo offense? Second, Conley is a true PG. He’s a facilitator that gets his teammates involved. The Hawks need someone like that and have since Knight started putting this team of duplicate players together. And third, Crittenton is more than a year away from contributing, but let’s go ahead and draft another project so our team doesn’t make the playoffs again. You ATL sports writers are ridiculous. Instead of taking Knight to task for being recognized across the league as one of the worst GM’s in basketball, you rationalize his continued bad moves. Unreal.

By T

June 22, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Tony I agree with you alot. We have the same vision. Mark Bradley should realize that Speedy Claxton is not going to cut it. Plus if we “already” have a pg on the team, than we “already” have a 6’9 power forward (Shelden Williams)and a 6’9 leaper (Marvin Williams) So what do we do with those wasted busts? Conley is a floor general who is quick and plays great defense. I like Critt, I like his size, I like his playmaking ability. Conley is a better value pick, who will last us a VERY long time.

By smileswiper

June 22, 2007 2:08 PM | Link to this

why not try and package both picks or one of the picks and a top player and go after oden full speed ahead.

By Dave

June 22, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Who cares? Move the whole team to Las Vegas and let us enjoy hockey in peace. Go Gladiators!

By Bob in SF

June 22, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

I would much rather the Hawks take Crit at 11 than trade for Bibby. Bibby is hitting that point when PGs start slowing down radically and we already have 3 broken down PGs who can’t play on the roster. If you’re going to go young, go young. Draft Horford whose post game will be in the top 5 in the NBA by the all-star break of his second season and throw Crit out there and let him play. I agree, playoffs in 08 is a stretch but by 09 this team could be in the top 5 of the East with some good breaks and a coach other than Woody.

By Billy Goodnight

June 22, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this

The Betances must live in Florida. Yes hes’a solid player, but wasn’t S.William, M.Williams, J.Smith, Solom, and Batista. All 6’9”-6’10” guys. We don’t need another solid guy. We need a Center and Point. The draft is full of solid guys. Billy surprise us this year. At least draft Corey Brewer or Al Thornton, at least they can come off the bench for J.Johnson play solid defense and score some points.

By Dtruth

June 22, 2007 3:14 PM | Link to this

It does not matter who they draft with Woodson at coach. He tried to coach like Larry Brown but was inept at it. The Hawks did not play defense like a Larry Brown team. Then he did not utilize what he actually had which was young athletic players. They should not have been a walk it up, set up team. With all those young legs they should have been running people off the floor. Don’t use a set scheme with any group of players. Adjust your scheme to fit your players. Dummy.

By Eric

June 22, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this

This is a direct comment to Mark Bradley. I can’t believe you are actually so high on Bibby, let’s go back a couple of years ago when you and your co-workers wrote Jason Terry out of town. You guys suggested that Billy take Marvin Williams over Paul and Deron Williams, because he was the projected best player. Knight takes the players you guys suggest he take, and then he gets blasted a year later for doing just that. To answer your doubt about Josh Smith, he’s the real deal. He may not be the best player on the team, but he is the most valuable. Josh is the youngest player in N.B.A. history to reach 500 blocks, breaking Shag’s record.

By Andy Bidgoli

June 22, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

I grew up in ATL, but now live in LA and I know more about the hawks then the people who post the crap on this blog. Here are the ways to improve the Hawks:

1) Sign Mo Williams and pick Horford at #3 and at #11 take Noah (I don’t think he will be available) or Hawes. Mo would have been considered for most improved player if so many other guys weren’t having amazing years. Look at his number in Feb. He will be a candidate for most improved next year. And with our picks, we will finally have some size with our wing players Lineup: PG: Williams/Lue SG: JJ/JC/Salim SF: JS/MW PF:Horford/SW C:Noah or Hawes/Zaza

2) Take Conley at 3 and hope that Noah or Hawes is available at #11. Speed kills (look at Tony parker-can anybody stop him?) and if we can get Noah then I think we have done AMAZING!! 3) If you are going to take Horford at #3, then you have to get Crittenton at #11. Acie Law is a combo guard. He is just like Salim Studimare or Mike James. Crittenton has size (look at Shaun Livingston-everybody was dying to get him before he got hurt) and can play defense. We have enough scores on our team and we need a guy who wants to pass the ball first and can hit a three pointer here and there. I really hope we do NOT draft Law.

By Dan

June 22, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley,

Remember last year at this time? I do. That was when you led us all to believe that the Hawks were going to get Allen Iverson. How did that play out? Now, here you are again, making up trades that will probably never happen. Are your “sources” telling you the Hawks are after Bibby like they told you the Hawks were after Iverson?

You are the ultimate know-nothing sports writer. You write two articles a season on the Hawks and give poor evaluations of the team’s players. Just stop writing about basketball. You do not know what you are talking about.

That being said, I do agree that Horford would not be a bad pick. Not my first choice (I want Conley), but I could live with it.

Just remember, Mark, if you have an opinion on the Hawks, no one wants to hear it.

By Tommie

June 22, 2007 5:04 PM | Link to this

How about Marvin Williams and the 11th pick to Chicago for Kirk Hinrich. Then the Hawks would have a quality young point guard who’s already under contract for several years.

By tony

June 22, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

If that BK take another forward, BOTCOTT THE GAMES!! NO MORE STUPIDITY! You people should join me. The hawks are our team, not BK. BK is just an arrogant reckless humanbeing who think we are too stupid to see what he has done to our team. Take a look at this> http://www.insidehoops.com/billy-knight-100504.shtml BK and Woodson are friends and that’s why Woodson still has a job today. Woodson winning % after 3 seasons is .280, Lon Kruger winning % after 3 seasons is .371. http://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/ATL/coaches.html Check out how many games they lost under 500! We gave BK 4 years to make the hawks a winning team, but can’t even make us a 500 team. Steve Belkin is the reason why he’s our GM today, but look how Bill Knight showed his appreciation - he stab the guy in the back and went against Belkin to bring Joe Johnson to Atlanta. Now he has created chaos in the ATL. I SAY BOYCOTT THE GAMES AND GET THIS ARROGANT GUY OUT OF ATLANTA!

By STOP THE MADNESS

June 22, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

People you are kidding yourselves if you even think that Horford is on the level of Amare athletically. The reason Amare can play Center is because of his body and his great leaping ability. Horford has a good sized body but this kid no where near the area of Amare when in terms of athletic ability. If we draft Horford then we are just repeating the same mistakes over and over and over. I hate to break it to one blogger but Josh Smith is the pf. He plays better at pf because he is quicker and is a better leaper than most pfs thus giving him an advantage. That is why Shawn Marion is so good. Marion has a sf body but plays pf because he is a great leaper and is a lot quicker than most pfs. If you noticed in the playoffs that as soon as Marion moved to sf he struggled because he didnt have that advantage anymore. That what happens to Josh when you move him back to sf. He is better suited at pf and Marvin at sf. Like someone else said we dont need an almost Center we need a legit Center and Horford is not a legit center. At the end of the day Horford and Sheldon do the same thing and it doesnt matter that Horford is quicker than Sheldon or that he has a better vetical. If you give them both minutes they probably produce the same numbers which would be around 12 and 8 a night. TAKE CONLEY HAWKS. IM SICK OF PASSING OVER GOOD PGS WITH NO VALID REASON. IM SICK OF BEING THE LAUGHING STOCK OF THE NBA. TAKE THIS KID OR WE WILL BE TALKING YEARS FROM NOW ON HOW WE COULD HAVE HAD HIM LIKE SO MANY OTHER PLAYERS.

By Mark Bradley

June 22, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

I don’t mind being held accountable for things I’ve written. The Rex Chapman thing? Yep, that was me. But the Allen Iverson thing wasn’t. Feel free to check.

By tony

June 22, 2007 6:18 PM | Link to this

CORRECTION, It was BK decision to bring Joe Johnson to Atlanta not Belkin. MY BAD.

By SG

June 22, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

Horford and Crittendon, that’s what I came up with also. The difference between Crittendon and Conley is minute. Crittendon was rated higher than Conley coming out of high school. If Crittendon had played at Ohio State, he would have been in the Final 4 also. Javaris is much bigger and could swing to shooting guard at times. If he is going to be available at #11, it makes sense. If Crittendon is not available, then most likely A.C. Law could be the #11 pick. Too bad the Hawks can’t ask R.C. Buford, the Spurs GM, what to do. He is a wizard.

By tony

June 22, 2007 7:13 PM | Link to this

SG, you came up with the BK SYNDROME! That’s why this team is a 500 Sub TEAM today, because you guys based your decisions on perception and not by statistics and their level of pay on the court. Yes, anyone can say what could have been, but the facts are, Mike Conley is the best TRUE POINT GUARD in this draft. In 04, 05, 06 and now 07, you guys are still saying that we should take another forward because they give us the best chance to win. TELL ME SIR, where are the results? Why are you so afraid to take a TRUE CENTER and a TRUE POINT GUARD? I know - if we are successful, that will really make you look foolish! AM I RIGHT!

By BadgerDawg

June 22, 2007 8:06 PM | Link to this

Jackson, as a Bucks fan I can answer the same way 99% of all trade proposals should be answered: your proposing a trade the other team would be insane to take. Why would the Bucks want a garbage PG and a waste of a draft pick? They’d be better off giving him away than taking those guys back. They’re not that desperate.