ajcsportstalk

By Greg

June 26, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this

I’ll take Yi and Conley! that would be exciting…would also love Horford and Conley.

But to be honest, I dont expect Conley to be there at #11.

By Mike-Tuscaloosa

June 26, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

WOW….I am not sure that BK has the nerve nor the time to make this pick…I would like to see Yi here but we would need to make additional roster moves/trades in my opinion to make it work…What gives You this impression Sekou? Do you think BK has the time to wait on Yi to develop? Or do you see him playing right away?

Thanks, Mike

By Jay

June 26, 2007 6:11 PM | Link to this

What do I think?

There is no way Conley drops to 11.

Yi is going to be a huge bust that is going to play out of position unless we move Smoove or Marvin.

The Hawks are going to be ridiculed on national tv (again).

Im worried because Sekou is connected and Im guessing his prediction on Yi is from inside information.

By Dave knockahomer

June 26, 2007 6:16 PM | Link to this

Yi is talented and will bring it alot of fans! Would be a good move by the Hawks!

now, someone tell me the truth….no way is Greg Oden 19 years old! Look at his face…..he is alot older than 19. Was his birth certificate tampered with?

Can you look at his photo and honestly say this guy is 19?

By Ernest

June 26, 2007 6:17 PM | Link to this

I think you may be on to something. Yi is getting more and more support as the #3 pick, partly because of the economic benefits he also brings. I predict that if Conley is not available at 11, they will select Law.

By DKM

June 26, 2007 6:20 PM | Link to this

BK will not pick Yi and Conley will not drop to 11. If Yi can run the floor it is a great pick but that’s right we have the personnel to run but a coach that won’t! Noah is the impact player in the draft and we will ignore him and draft another project! Good Luck fans, we will need it.

By Hawksbeliever

June 26, 2007 6:23 PM | Link to this

Although picking Yi makes it more likely that Conley drops to 11, I really don’t think it will happen. Conley will be gone before then.

Also, Sekou’s draft was prepared under the assumption that there are no trades. If none of the teams in the top 10 want Conley, one of the other teams surely will trade up to get him.

If we pass on Conley and Hoford at 3, I’d prefer we take Noah.

By maskedhawkfan

June 26, 2007 6:26 PM | Link to this

Please dont tell me we are going to pick Yi. Where does he fit on our team? He doesn’t play down low, and seems to fit the mold of every other hawk draft pick. Please draft Horford. Please! Then a point guard at 11. It makes so much sense. Which is why the Hawks wont do it.

Forget about a trade right now. With the ownership in flux a trade with the Hawks seems impossible. Drafting Yi means though we HAVE to trade one of our forwards. Which means other teams know this. Also who wants to wait on this guy to develop? And who anticpates the worst case scenario? Yi staying in China another year? To pick Yi would be the the dumbest of the dumb picks the hawks have made.

By roan st

June 26, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

Jay, I agree with your assumption that sekou knows something because virtually every mock draft I have seen has them going horford or conley. Now all of a sudden two days before the draft sekou is predicting YI who by the way is a player he was against picking in the first place. So we know that his prediction is not based on bias because that is who he would like the hawks to take. I have also read another NBA insider say that he thought the horford to the hawks was just a smoke screen because he felt that the hawks wanted to trade down a spot or two and pick up some extra assests.

By John

June 26, 2007 6:28 PM | Link to this

I’d prefer Horford at #3, Yi is just too much of an unknown. As for #11, it would be great if COnley were there, and Sekou’s mock is at least plausible - if the Hawks take Yi. If the Hawks take Horford, then I think Memphis takes Conley at #4.

Yahoo has a story today that stated Conley tossed a lot of bricks at his workout with the Hawks, so there was no way the Hawks would take him at #3. The story also stated that a rival exec thought BK would trade #11 to Seattle for - get this - Luke Ridnour. Oh, Lord, say it ain’t so. If Jaret Jack isn’t worth the #11 pick straight up (and I don’t think he is, although I like him), there’s no way Ridnour is. Maybe for a low 2nd round pick (which we don’t have, obviously), but #11? I’d like to think that even BK isn’t that inept.

By J. Shuttlesworth

June 26, 2007 6:29 PM | Link to this

NO WAY the Hawks have the ca-hones to take Yi. There’s just way too much risk. Play it safe, and get the big man in Horford who can hold down the paint on D.

They’re already the laughing stock of the league, and taking one more potential bust is just too crazy.

By Matthew at the SLC

June 26, 2007 6:31 PM | Link to this

At Least with Yi we will not have to worry about Dog Fighting and other THUG activites.

All hail the Chinaman! Anybody for some Long Duck Dong?

“No more yanky my wanky. The Donger need food!”

By J. Shuttlesworth

June 26, 2007 6:32 PM | Link to this

AJC - Yi ain’t no center!!! Does anyone at the paper actually follow this stuff??

By The Fonz

June 26, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Yi @ #3? What you smokin. Did he even work out with the Hawks? Good thing you are not the GM. Horford will go number 3, and a PG at 11, either Law or Critt. Another option is to trade the 11 pick for a vet PG like Bibby.

By doug

June 26, 2007 6:35 PM | Link to this

if bk drafts yi, conley will not be there at 11, so he will have to draft crittendon. they could easily both fail. i see carrie’s mother telling bk, ” THEY’RE ALL GOING TO LAUGH AT YOU ! “

By captncold

June 26, 2007 6:37 PM | Link to this

How about taking Hortford at 3 and trying to trade down to get Conley? Somebody has got to be interested in taking the 11 spot along with Childress, Marvin or Sheldon and one of our spare points.

By Chris

June 26, 2007 6:40 PM | Link to this

Conley at 11? Sekou, out the pipe down. Not happening.

I like Yi’s game a lot, but I see him as much more of a 4 than a 5. He plays away from the basket, and we need someone down in the post. As it stands, we have a bit of a logjam at the F positions. I don’t see this happening without shipping someone elsewhere.

By Chris

June 26, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

If they take Yi then I will never go to a Hawks game again. He is a HUGE bust waiting to happen.

By m berry

June 26, 2007 6:44 PM | Link to this

I prefer drafting Conley 1st and the best big at 11, but if Hawks draft a big first, it should be Horford, who can play center. We need players who are NBA ready. Yi is not. Decision to get Yi for marketing, instead of winning, gets people fired. Physically Horford is similar to Amare Stodamire. Take Law at point since Conley will not be available.

By Ernest

June 26, 2007 6:57 PM | Link to this

There was a pretty good article on Yi on the Draft Express website. You can read it at: Yi article

By P

June 26, 2007 7:06 PM | Link to this

Yi is a Huge risk!! BK cant afford big risk his days are numbered!! Conley is the only pick at 3. WE NEED A TRUE PG. Remember Tony Parker was 19 when the spurs got him just like conley, he did not have a consistent jumper just like conley, he is 6’1 just like conley!! Last I checked Tony Parker was killing the Cavs and Won Finals MVP. CONLEY AT 3 IS THE ONLY PICK. BEST BIG AT 11 OR TRADE THE PICK TO PHOENIX AND GET BACK OUR NUMBER 1 PICK NEXT YEAR AND GET THE CTR OUT OF GEORGETOWN.

By Peter

June 26, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this

I’ve seen Yi and yep he can play. He’s going to be something really different and he will allow the Hawks to play a more uptempo style. I know JJ really likes him and so does Jason Kidd.

However Horford is the kind of guy that can put you into the Eastern Conference final four.

Now Law canceled further workouts after he worked out for us. I think he has a commitment from us and it makes sense because the Hawks are looking defense at the PG.

I think it’s Horford and Law but Yi wouldn’t surprise me.

By The Truth

June 26, 2007 7:14 PM | Link to this

We don’t need anymore projects…sign Billups and trade the picks for J. O’Neal…end of discussion.

By jeremy

June 26, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Good call, Sekou.

Yall Yi haters havent done your research. He is not a high risk. The dude’s been playing int’l comp for years, has played in a league (albeit inferior), has a 30 something vertical leap, catches alley oops like its going out of style, shot 82 % from the free throw line, WEIGHS MORE THAN HORFORD OR NOAH, etc. etc. plus the dude is adept to our culture, speaks decent english (not like when Yao or Batista entered the league). I would love to see him in there with jsmoove or zaza playing the 3 or 4. yeah, he’s not fast enough for the 3, but he can create match up problems. and yes, i can see conley going at 11. id rather get acie law, but law is not that lightning quick as conley. im just scared is going to be another speedy (super fast but a bad shooter). yi will bring tons of revenue for the hawks with all the games on tv in china (the dude is i think one of the most popular athletes in china!). how can yall freak out about getting Yi and in the same breath talk about getting brandon wright or joakim noah…both of which are busts in the nba. neither can shot outside of 10 feet and will be guys coming off the bench for their careers.

By jbrownjib

June 26, 2007 7:21 PM | Link to this

Why not take Conley number 3 and Yi at 11. Would that make people happy?

By hawksfan

June 26, 2007 7:29 PM | Link to this

It be a Christmas Miracle should get be able to get both Yi and Conley

By WONK WONK

June 26, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this

Yi aint no damn center

By Chris

June 26, 2007 7:43 PM | Link to this

Conley at 3. Do not mess up again. Dude is going to be really, really good. And in case people haven’t noticed, we need a good PG. Look at what Tony Parker just did in SA’s championship run.

By Lifelong Hawks Fan

June 26, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

jbrownjib, I don’t honestly think Yi would be available at 11 if we let him slip past.

By St Bernard

June 26, 2007 8:05 PM | Link to this

We’re trading at least one of these picks and maybe both of them, so don’t get so worked up fellas. We may have two picks in the lottery, but it won’t be #3 and #11. BK will make a trade with someone, if for no other reason than to prove he’s alive. They won’t be satisfied with any pg in this draft except Conley, so if they don’t take him at #3 and don’t trade up, they’ll trade #11 and something else for a point. Think Andre Miller.

By OddJob

June 26, 2007 8:09 PM | Link to this

This is all nonsense (probably).Let’s say Sekou has some insight to what BK is thinking.Thats the 3(Yi) which I doubt.Conley dropping to 11 is fantasy though (probably).

By Lifelong Hawks Fan

June 26, 2007 8:11 PM | Link to this

I do hope we can trade responsibly out of either pick and pick up some veteran help. I don’t want to give up too much young talent in the process. But either one of those picks could get us something. Out of all the trade rumors, I think Gasol looks nice on paper. But I think we need more than that.

By superman

June 26, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I said last week that Conley would drop to 11. To the people who know nothing about the teams involved. None of them are desparate for a point gaurd. So the Hawks are the only team that would be stupid enough(along with half the people posting here) who would consider picking a gaurd wh CAN’t shoot very well at the third pick. Memphis don’t not need Conley they already have Lowery who is a better player than Conley. He just got hurt last year. The rest of the top ten prospects are all big men. So the Hawks will take Horford then Conley at 11. Yi doe not make any sense unless they would trade him. They need a rebounder and defender inside. Yi is neither.

By OddJob

June 26, 2007 8:14 PM | Link to this

I’ll put it another way.Neither of these players will be around at 11.

By Wedgie Evans

June 26, 2007 8:30 PM | Link to this

Conley could drop to 11, but I think it’s very unlikely. If the Hawks don’t take him at #3, I think four or five teams including the Kings (looking for a replacement for the aging Bibby) and the Bucks (gives them flexibility with re-signing Mo Williams) will probably be interested in taking him. The Hawks need a legit low-post scorer and defender who can play the 4 or the 5. Horford fits the bill, but Yi seems more like a 7-foot tall version of Marvin Williams. Conley would be a great pick at #3, Horford would be a good pick, and Yi would be a bad pick. I’d rather trade the #3 for Gasol than get Yi, who probably won’t be a star for two or three years, if ever.

By David

June 26, 2007 8:32 PM | Link to this

I’d sooner believe Yi is available at #11 than Conley. Hollinger’s ESPN column on draft ratings for the past five years has me salivating over the thought of our team being run by Conley for the next eight years. Unfortunately, I’m afraid we’ll blow it since we are, you know, the Hawks.

By Sam

June 26, 2007 8:36 PM | Link to this

If Crittenton had not participated in so many Tickle Piles while at Tech I believe he might have been higher rated. After the Tech experience teams are reluctant to bring a Yellow Jacket into a heterosexual dressing room.

By destin

June 26, 2007 8:37 PM | Link to this

Yi may not be a prototypical NBA center, but how many teams have a Shaq these days? Depending on the match-up, he could play 5 at times now — and as he matures, adds weight, muscle, and experience he very well could find himself playing more 5 than expected. However, that is not why I would draft him. Whoever above said Yi was not fast enough to play 3 is smoking some good sh##. Look at the film on Yi and watch him dribble the length of the floor and slash to the basket. Watch his ball handling, passing, his 18-20 ft. shooting. Not only can Yi play 3 and 4 right now, he could probably play a little 2 if we ran into a team with a really tall shooting guard. Anyway, with his talent, energy, and the desire to succeed, I feel he would contribute right away and be a star in the future.

By **billy g**

June 26, 2007 8:44 PM | Link to this

Conley will not get past Milwaukee.

Yi is an interesting pick. If the Hawks take him, they will have to move a forward. I think that Yi will be a very good player, but the Hawks need a Center and a PG.

Your draft plan is nice, but not realistic.

By jp

June 26, 2007 9:05 PM | Link to this

Yi is not worth the 3 but then again BK is our GM. He supposedly drafts the most talented player available but for the last 3 drafts he has screwed in evaluating players.

I think we have to do a trade for someone else’s backup pg like Jose Calderon from Toronto or Leandro Barbosa from Phoenix for the 11th.

By Chops

June 26, 2007 9:09 PM | Link to this

I think this is the worst mock draft I’ve ever seen. Yi isn’t going 3 and Conley isn’t dropping to 11. So this mock draft is totally useless.

By tee

June 26, 2007 9:19 PM | Link to this

i think horford is the pick at #3. For the past 7 years the hawks haven’t had a inside player who could rebound and block shots. horford is a player you don’t have to run plays through. he was a great rebounder in college and got his points on rebs and hussle. If noah is there at 11 i’ll take him too! Trade zaza!!!!!!!!!! he sucks! no offense, all he does is try to draw fouls and looks foolish everytime he has the ball. noah and horford along with smoove would soidify the front court for years. as for the point you have two veterans in bibby and billups you could throw some of this money the hawks have been wanting get rid of for the last 2 or 3 years. HORFORD AND NOAH!!!!!!OR HORFORD AND LAW!!!!!!!!

By Steve B.

June 26, 2007 9:21 PM | Link to this

I love it. Yi at #3, Conley at 11. Mike has not shot the ball well which could scare off some teams. The only problems GM’s are finding on Yi is that they don’t know his weakness yet. All the other players they know, They saw these other guys, they know their weakness,Yi is the ? Take the shot at him BK I’m with you on this one. If we would all be honest we have only seen what Yi dose well so every dissing him saying what he can’t do is just blowing hot air. Honestly if your against him it’s only because of what you heard some one else say, not what you saw with your eyes. So truth be told if you don’t want him because you want someone else that’s cool, but stop slaming him because you realy don’t know what he can and can’t do.

By adrian

June 26, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

First off, the hawks are in need of a real point gaurd and a leader on the court to get all the players moving and play with more energy. Mike conly is the only choice for the hawks. For all the people who disagree my only argument is who we have passed up on in recent years like deron williams and chris paul.

By adrian

June 26, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this

First off, the hawks are in need of a real point gaurd and a leader on the court to get all the players moving and play with more energy. Mike conly is the only choice for the hawks. For all the people who disagree my only argument is who we have passed up on in recent years like deron williams and chris paul.

By amanda hugnkiss

June 26, 2007 9:26 PM | Link to this

tee i disagree the hawks really need someone to guide there team and drafting another forward isnt goin to help

By gdg73

June 26, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

I have some inside information from a source close to the Hawk’s front office. I know many of you will disregard this blog, but you heard it here first. The Hawks will draft Joakim Noah. The team is looking to trade out of #3 and snag him. They know one of the three point guards will be there at #11 as well. It looks like Billy finally gets it.

By Clyde

June 26, 2007 9:34 PM | Link to this

Noah at 3

Law at 11

Woody and Yi don’t mix.

FIRE BILLY AND WOODY

By John

June 26, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this

Sekou,

I hope you are drunk because there is no way they make either of those picks you suggested they are taking Horford and Law no doubt about it. You are another reason why the AJC sucks.

By johnny houston

June 26, 2007 9:44 PM | Link to this

pick horford #3 mike conley is not ready to play now

By Orlando Rivera

June 26, 2007 9:56 PM | Link to this

When you think about it (I know many of you on this blog don’t think but at least try for once) Yi does fit the type of player BK would prefer to draft. Long and athletic? It doesn’t get any longer than a 7 footer who can shoot from outside. Also, whether you people like to realize it or not, he is bigger in size and weight to Horford.

However, I don’t remember Yi working out at all for the Hawks, so that would be a bit puzzling. I think if they do draft Yi then Law will be their choice at 11, because this team is looking for guys who can play now. I don’t think they’ll get Crittenton and wait for another project to develop, not with their jobs on the line.

I just find it strange they would go this route after all the talk about Horford. Perhaps there’s a trade brewing we don’t know about.

I don’t know if I should be excited or seriously nervous on Thursday….

By Daniel

June 26, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

The potent superstar talent we need to put with JJ is J. Smith. I say we remain patient, don’t trade the pic’s but pick up solid talent and see where we get. At years end we will still have VERY tradeable assets and flexibility and be in a better position to determine what the best mix of talent is. In the meantime, we SHOULD be a playoff team this year but does anyone REALLY expect to win it all? Why rush then, give our guys a chance.

By Daniel

June 26, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Orlando - be afraid..be very afraid.

By Random Task

June 26, 2007 10:06 PM | Link to this

Tee I’m not down on Horford but the facts are this.Shelden out rebounded, out scored and blocked twice the shots that Horford did in college.Now we can debate why that is,but we can’t pretend it ain’t so.

By HHoops

June 26, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

This is going out on the limb, but here is my prediction: The Hawks get Stodamire in a four way deal with the Lakers(get Garnett to keep Kobe happy), the Suns(get Hawks #3 pick & take Horford + others), the Timberwolves(get Odom & Bynum + others) and the Hawks(get Stodamire). The Suns want a high pick badly. Then the Hawks will get the best Point Guard available @ #11. Probably Law, enen though I think a lot of teams have under evaluated Rodney Stuckey. Stuckey will be the steal of this draft!

By pleeeaase hawks!!!!!

June 26, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this

I say trade 3 pick for Zach Randolf or Pau Gasol and hope for Conley at #11, if not take the guy that put TEXAS A&M on the map. I know I am not a GM, but who really thought Texas A&M was a good team before Acie Law went shot for shot with Kevin Durant.

By Hock

June 26, 2007 10:18 PM | Link to this

You are smoking crack, but at least you didn’t repeat your previous columns on this subject. Conley at #11 is so off the wall, only a dope would write such a thing.

By cp

June 26, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this

Yea as the draft gets closer the scarier it gets. Man im praying BK doesnt blow this. I thought I was p** last year but if he blows it this year I think I will be done with this team. I cant keep supporting a team that doesnt get it.

By Daniel

June 26, 2007 10:28 PM | Link to this

HHoops - why would we trade for Amare? We have him (with less attitude and cost) now in J.Smith. All we would be doing is giving away the #3!

pleeeaase hawks!!! - why would we take on ZBo? He is a locker room killer and overpriced. I’ll give you Gasol though. He is overpriced too but least he brings the offense without being offensive.

By Steve B.

June 26, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

If the PHX/MINN/BOS trade goes down and Minn is picking at 5 and 7, Maybe we can trade 3 and 11 for 5 and 7. Draft Conley at 5 because the China Gov dosn’t want Yi in MIL, And Yi at 7. Just A thought.

By Wes

June 26, 2007 10:34 PM | Link to this

horford at #3 and crittenton at #11. they are a great fit for the system (versatile athletes) and provide balance among the team. simple as that, so expect knight to pick otherwise….

By regg

June 26, 2007 10:37 PM | Link to this

Al Horford at #3 because he;s a winner and strength wins in the NBA

and at #11 what ever point is left of the top 3

By bob61

June 26, 2007 10:40 PM | Link to this

Yi & Conley would be a great draft for the Hawks! Yi is an unknown risk only to people who have not taken the time to find out about him. For those in the know, Yi may have the least risk of all potential draftees because he is the only one who has actually played games against NBA players. In the 2006 FIBA championships, Yi played for China in two games against the USA. The USA team included Dwight Howard, Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwayne Wade, Joe Johnson, and other NBA all-stars. Yao was out injured, so Yi had to play as a ‘big’. Yi performed very well in those games. The USA players, especially Lebron James, had very good comments about Yi’s performance. Joe Johnson knows how well Yi can play!

By Peter

June 26, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this

HORTFORD IS THE PLAYER THE HAWKS SHOULD DRAFT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By tony

June 26, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this

I want to see Mike Conley in a hawks uniform PERIOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By A-ville Ranger

June 26, 2007 11:19 PM | Link to this

bob61 Come on now,when it comes to evaluating these guys there’s no such thing as in the know.Some people have better judgement than others but it’s still a crap-shoot.

By reese

June 26, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this

Getting Yi at 3 would be great for the hawks and hawks fans. Yi did work out for the hawks in California.

Yi is not an unknown talent. We all seem to agree that JJ and Josh Smith are the best hawks players. Both have played against Yi and both jj and josh say that Yi is a solid player.

Yi is the one of the only player in the draft who has played against and held his own against current NBA Allstars. He is the one of the only players in the draft who has played against international players from NBA teams.

Why do so many of you think that he is an unknown. Just listen to are top 2 players. Its that simple bloggers.

By Bryan

June 26, 2007 11:25 PM | Link to this

I only know one thing. BK will make the wrong moves with both of those 2 picks. He must bs shi—-ing in his pants right now. He is a jinx and a curse and the Hawks will NEVER be anything with him running ths ship. Agreed??

By reese

June 26, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this

Doc, I’m not sure why signing a player before july 1 would have any bearing on the salary cap. I know that July 1 is the first day to talk to free agents.

If we trade, we have to match salaries.

I wish that the hawks could afford to go over the salary cap like other teams. I’m not excited about conley at 11 and would rather trade up to someone like Boston. We could take their 5 pick, the salary of Theo and one of their point guards. In return, we give them Jchill or Marvin, Wright and speedy. Then I would take Noah with the number 5 pick. If I didn’t have to include the 11th pick in the deal, I take which ever player I want.

But I’m still dreaming for that to go through.

By 2007 Draft

June 26, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

Yi and Conley (if Conley’s not there, then Law will be the 11th pick). I personally believe Horford will be a solid NBA player but I also believe Yi has the potential to be a NBA All-Star caliber player. If any of you are season ticket holders, then you have become accustomed to seeing three-fourths of the arena empty. By taking Yi, the Hawks have another marketing chip to drive up attendance (of course, winning is the major chip; however, we’re still working on that).

By Kevin

June 26, 2007 11:58 PM | Link to this

Look. This team has been in rebuild mode for quite a few years now. Why now, because Billy and Woody jobs are on the line, should we give up on the youth and “long-term” philosophy? So what if Conley is 19 and may take a few years to become one of the elite guards of the game!!

At this pivotal moment in our franchise’s history there is no need to panic and take the safe pick (Horford) in order to hopefully skate into the playoffs and get crushed by the first veteran team we face. Knight made what he saw as the safe pick last year in the “land lord” and we all know how well that went (yes I am aware of the stark contrast between Shelden and Horford but humor me). Let’s take a gamble that Conley in a few years can lead us deep into the playoffs instead of just to them. Living in ATL we all know how early departures from the post-season can hurt more than not making to the post-season at all. How great would it be to have JJ, J Smoove, and Conley to build around down at Phillips for the next 7+ years??

At first I was bothered by the idea of passing on Conley at 3 but as long as we get him I am happy. He is a future franchise guard—it’s as simple as that. Another possibility is that the Hawks take Horford/Yi at 3 and then trade the 11 pick with Salim/Shelden/Money/Future Pick etc. for Conley with whoever makes a serious enough threat at drafting him ahead of us. If no one does…JACKPOT!

By neuyyar

June 27, 2007 12:05 AM | Link to this

http://blog.luohuedu.net/Images/Pictures/3844/24227/o_20070112090503.jpg

It shouldn’t be too hard to guess who Yi is in the picture. The Chinese characters below read: “ShenZhen City XinXiu Elementary School Graduation Class of ‘97, Grade 6, Group 3, Teachers & Students Commemorative Photo”.

By Chinese law, any child need to be at least 6 years old to enter 1st grade in September. If Yi indeed graduated in 1997 at 6th grade, then he had to enter school in 1991, less than 4 years old if he were born in October 27, 1987 as he is listed, something highly improbable in a huge city like ShenZhen City. On the other hand, a DOB of 1984/10/27 makes great sense, although 1985/10/27 is not entirely impossible.

By D

June 27, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

Who knows? I’ve been saying “draft Conley at 3” all along, but really, I don’t know. I really hope the Hawks pick up Conley b/c we need a PG, but… there are other ways to get to the playoffs, I suppose. I know nothing about Yi, other than JJ thinks he’s fantastic, but, heck, he could be the next Dirk as everybody is saying. Even so, we’ll need a PG, and neither Acie Law nor Critt (sorry Tech fans) is going to get the job done. That means a trade, or, sure, in Sekou’s fantasy, dreamboat, crazy scenario, somehow, someway, Conley falls to 11 (that will never happen, more’s the pity).

By AG in Jville

June 27, 2007 12:20 AM | Link to this

A very tough decision, but I think Hortford will be an All-Star one day. Trade the 11th pick for A. Miller or J. Jack. Also, Z. Randolph will no longer be needed in Portland, so we may be able to get Zach & Jack!

By Concerned Hawk Fan

June 27, 2007 12:31 AM | Link to this

I would rather see the Hawks make a move for a true center. The Hawks could send the #3 pick to the Lakers for Andrew Bynum.

Then the could use the 11th pick on a Point Guard.

By steven

June 27, 2007 12:42 AM | Link to this

If Billy Knight trades for Ridnour he is the biggest possy shot of all time. I’d rather be a real contender in the East in a couple years then be a 6 seed in the playoffs next year. Do the right thing. Take Horford and Law!

By Samuel

June 27, 2007 1:59 AM | Link to this

I truly think the hawks should try their best to get two players from the Florida Gators team together on the same team. If you get two players that have won together, and played together on the same team, atleast you have some people who know how to win and play together. I say the hawks should draft Joahkim Noah at the #3, a proven leader and winner, and then draft Corey Brewer at #11.

By Atlantan in China

June 27, 2007 3:13 AM | Link to this

I am an Atlantan—a college professor—living in Shanghai, China. There is no way Yi is 19. Trust me. I’d also worry about his lack of ballhandling skills and limited shooting moves —he only has two. The Chinese press has noted both of these problems themselves. I agree, though, it would be a great marketing move for the Hawks. Yao is like a god here—and the Rockets are famous. 1 billion customers…

By Steve

June 27, 2007 3:56 AM | Link to this

Take conley at #3 because horford is not going to improve you 20 games and allow you to win eastern conference how many times are you going to pass on a franchise point guard? Trade marvin williams and zaza pachulia and #11 and move as far up into the top ten you can and you will have a chance to take the best player you can get such as yi, brewer, noah, jeff green or al thornton!!!

By bwk

June 27, 2007 5:01 AM | Link to this

Horford will be a bust!

Noah will be a bust!

Only one of those gators that will be a very good NBA-player is brewer, because of his defense and athleticism.

And all of the players except oen and durant seem like a stretch at #3 because they´re all too close together and too much of a gamble. i hate all these guys coming out after their freshman years. and it doesnt make much of a difference if they come straight from hs or from freshman in college. wait a year, and pick derrick rose (who will probably come out after his freshman year also, stupid pg morons!)

i dont really care who they pick, conley would be nice, noah and horford not!

but we were really screwed by the lottery since picking #3 and #11 is worst for filling our needs without having to stretch.

trade childress and #11 to milwaukee, and take brewer with #6.

then trade #3 for a mid-1st-rounder, a 1st-pick next year, and get rid of one of our too highly paid pgs, maybe golden state will part with manta ellis (they never would :) ) for yi.

this is going to be a desaster!

By Alex

June 27, 2007 5:11 AM | Link to this

Sekou’s been ridding some good stuff! Where can I get me some?! But for real now, if we could get them two out of this draft, I’ll take it (although I like Horford better than Yi)! Its just so hard to believe that Conley’s stock will drop all the way to 11… Anyway, keep dreami’ folks, its that time of the year… Go Hawks!

By Ernest

June 27, 2007 6:50 AM | Link to this

Just heard on ESPN that the Hawks ‘may’ be involved in a 3 way with Minny and LA involving Stoudamire and KG. Not sure of the details but it was interesting hearing.

I find myself wavering a bit and almost wanting to see the Hawks trade the #3 pick for a known veteran, like Gasol. Yi has the potential to be a superstar but there are many unknowns about his game. Hortford may end up being a solid player but I don’t think he will be a superstar, what you’d expect from the #3 pick. I like Conley, but not with the #3 pick. It’s going to be interesting the over the next day to see how things turn out.

By Ernest

June 27, 2007 7:23 AM | Link to this

Sorry, the 3 way I heard was through Phoenix not LA. It would require KG waiving his no trade clause.

By truckstop

June 27, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this

Sekou - I like it! I think Yi (a scorer who can play 3 positions) and a point who can score (Conley, Law, etc.) gives the Hawks what they need on the perimeter doing closing minutes of games when points in the paint get soooo tough (and usally when the Hawks faulter because teams are keying on JJ because there were no other scoring threats on the floor).

By racinoto

June 27, 2007 7:41 AM | Link to this

Yi (another forward, albeit a large forward) at three could be a great move and Conley or Law or Critttendon will be available at 11. However, BK doesn’t have the guts to pick an oriental at three, so look for Horford to be the next Hawks forward taken with their first pick.

By Don!

June 27, 2007 7:46 AM | Link to this

The ESPN deal has us shipping the 3 and 11 picks for Stoudamire.

I’d do that, but then where do we get the point guard we need?

Later,

Don!

By An Andruw Advocate

June 27, 2007 7:49 AM | Link to this

Please,pretty please, Hawks. Please take Conley with the third pick.

By VerbalKent

June 27, 2007 7:52 AM | Link to this

I like your draft scenario Sekou… it would be just what Atlanta needs… especially the ownership… Yi would generate tons of revenue… I’ve been intrigued with the prospect of him coming here since the Hawks received the #3 pick. He doesn’t have to be a traditional center… he’s 7 feet and will be playing in the East. Who else is a legit center over here besides Shap or maybe Ilgauskas??? If need be we can throw ZaZa, Shel, Solo, Wright at them while Yi does his thing. We would be suited to be a running team Yi actually gets up and down the floor. As far as Conley… it would be nice to see him fall that far down. If not I’d take Crit, he’ll be more like a Deron Williams type in a year or two.

By m berry

June 27, 2007 8:40 AM | Link to this

IF YI IS SELECTED WITH THE NUMBER 3 PICK, instead of Conley or Horford, Billy King deserves to be fired.

By Dan

June 27, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

OK I am convinced….holy crap…YI at 3 baby….The guy is going to bring money to Atl….and championships !!!! I am sold…Watch these then judge him

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=yi+jianlian&search=Search

By glenn

June 27, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this

God , What if we could get Horford & Conley in the same draft . That would be crazy ! I have read so many rumors that if Conley is gone at 11 , We will trade that pick to Seattle that there must be some truth to it . Seattle will draft Acie Law & we will get Luke Ridnour . If we draft that Yi Jianlian guy I will be livid ! I will really want new ownership more than anything else ! Way to many question marks for a #3 pick ! Sekou , where would we play him ? His game seems suited to a SF . What do you think of Jianlian at 3?

By m berry

June 27, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

I actually like Billy King so PLEASE TO NOT DRAFT YI WITH THE NUMBER 3 PICK.

By m berry

June 27, 2007 8:55 AM | Link to this

I actually like Billy King so PLEASE TO NOT DRAFT YI WITH THE NUMBER 3 PICK.

By NoD

June 27, 2007 8:58 AM | Link to this

Take Yi 3rd and Law 11th would be awsome draft.

By Tony Su

June 27, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this

Yi brings huge huge financial benefits to the team which selects him. He would bring sold-out games to the team everywhere they travel. He will be an all-star player every year because of all the votes he could get internationally. It makes great sense to Atlanta to get him, which will also greatly help their cause of getting a direct flight to China. All add up, he is a CAN-NOT-MISS guy in this draft!

Draft Yi without a heart-beat!

By DB Cooper

June 27, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

I guess Sekou forgot to put the crack pipe down this morning. No way ATL is picking Yi. Nice smoke screen there. You can’t pass on Conley peroid. Then again this is the Hawks. What SF will they draft this year?

By GC

June 27, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this

So many folks are hatin’ on Yi now. What’s the big deal with drafting a project? We did it two years ago with Marvin Williams. He didn’t even start at Carolina!

Rather, what we need to today, inside this blog, is decide what position Josh Smith is going to play for the Hawks. Is he going to be a 3 or a 4? Right now, let’s figure this out.

Oh, Yi at 3, Crittenton at 11.

By GC

June 27, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

So many folks are hatin’ on Yi now. What’s the big deal with drafting a project? We did it two years ago with Marvin Williams. He didn’t even start at Carolina!

Rather, what we need to today, inside this blog, is decide what position Josh Smith is going to play for the Hawks. Is he going to be a 3 or a 4? Right now, let’s figure this out.

Oh, Yi at 3, Crittenton at 11.

By Mark C.

June 27, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

The latest rumor on espn is a 3 way with Minny and PHX. Hawks send 3/11 to PHX for Amare. 3/11 go to Minny for KG. Minny also picks up cap relief in the deal. Not sure who that would be, but still. BK should make that deal in a heart beat. Before McHale backs out. I’d love to see a core of JJ, J. Smith and Amare.

By GC

June 27, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this

So many folks are hatin’ on Yi now. What’s the big deal with drafting a project? We did it two years ago with Marvin Williams. He didn’t even start at Carolina!

Rather, what we need to today, inside this blog, is decide what position Josh Smith is going to play for the Hawks. Is he going to be a 3 or a 4? Right now, let’s figure this out.

Oh, Yi at 3, Crittenton at 11.

By ScoobySnacks

June 27, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this

Draft express says the best Case Scenario for Yi is that he compares favorably with Pau Gasol. While best case scenario for Horford is he turns into another Emeka Okafor. So who would you rather have Gasol or Okafor assuming they both reach their potential.

http://draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=44

By Macaroni Tony

June 27, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

The Hawks will not select Conley, Jr with the third pick. Billy Knight not (King) have never selected a pg with the third pick. He will either go after the money with Yi or trade both picks for A. Stoudamire. Then select another pg with the rest of the cap space. Yi will bring money to what team he goes to, and the guy is not a risk do your homework.

By RIP

June 27, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

If the Hawks don’t get with the three-way deal with the Suns and T-wolves they are really stupid. Amare is better that any of these guys will ever be. Give up the 3 pick with Childress or Williams(Marvin) and the Hawks could be Phoenix(East).

By Casey

June 27, 2007 9:39 AM | Link to this

Conley will not be there at 11

By Professor K75

June 27, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Amare would come here, Marion to Boston,KG to PHX, and our 3 and 11 to MINN. Everyone is saying that deal has a chance to go through. Amare makes about 12 mil.

By marko

June 27, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

I’d love to have Yi and Conley. Yi in particular seems to be one of those damned if you do damned if you don’t sort of picks. If we choose him he’ become a total bust if we pass on him he’ll go elsewhere and become a super star. I’m convinced that Phillips is built on Noccahomma’s burial ground and whoever the Hawks pick will become the source of decades of ridicule. As for my advice draft the best available foreigners. I can’t bear to see my countrymen abused.

By Rawbreed™

June 27, 2007 10:01 AM | Link to this

F what you heard…. AMARE STOUDEMIRE AND AL HORFORD!!!! We have changed colors to match the same color scheme of the 1958 NBA Champion St. Louis Hawks with a sick uni logo and accent upgrade. 2008 Hawks must follow suit (no pun intended) To be real live eastern conference contenders …THE LOSING MUST STOP!…. Stoudemire got me lickin my chops waaaay more than L.L.!!! YUP :)

By ladbaby

June 27, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

Is Yi 7ft.,7.1 or 6.10? I have seen all 3 sizes for him and it makes a difference if he is to play center. In other words a 7.1 Yi excites me and a 6.10 Yi is duplication or at least too similar to what we have. We need a big first and there will be a good guard at 11. I still say Salim could be coached up to play point well but I am alone in that.

By Hawks Fan

June 27, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Get all of the answers here!

www.clubhawks.com

By Vol4ever

June 27, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

With the ownership issues I doubt the Hawks will or can make a trade. Draft Horford at 3 and Law at 11.

By Yi Man

June 27, 2007 10:06 AM | Link to this

Stoudamire without a great point guard to get him the ball is just another great athlete. We’ve got more than our share of those. We need basketball players. Give me the 7’1” athlete who can shoot, dribble, run, block shots and a pt guard—Law or Conley— and I like our chances of being in the finals in 2-3 years. Put Atlanta on the map Spirit. Don’t blow this chance.

By ILL-logical

June 27, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Anyway this draft works out-trades /SS predictions-Marvin is the odd man out.JSmooth will have to bring it both on and off the court to make this year a winner and maybe,just maybe ZaZa (Gabor) will be gone also. Here ‘s wishing for the best Thursday.

By SCODEE23

June 27, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Rumor has it that Billy Knight is considering trading the 11th pick for Luke Ridnour. Just say know Billy. Luke Ridnour is not going to help save your job. You can do much better than Ridnour.

By SCODEE23

June 27, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Rumor has it that Billy Knight is considering trading the 11th pick for Luke Ridnour. Just say no Billy. Luke Ridnour is not going to help save your job. You can do much better than Ridnour.

By SCODEE23

June 27, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Rumor has it that Billy Knight is considering trading the 11th pick for Luke Ridnour. Just say no Billy. Luke Ridnour is not going to help save your job. You can do much better than Ridnour.

By Macaroni Tony

June 27, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Scodee23 that is just a rumor, and I believe that will trade one of our picks to get some veteran help.

By Mike Davis

June 27, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Amare for the 3 and 11 is a no brainer. The potential to have an All-NBA center in Atlanta is too good to pass up. Regardless of our current point guard situation, adding Stoudamire to the Hawks makes the an IMMEDIATE contender in the east.

By GC

June 27, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

I read the Hawks couldn’t pull out a deal to get Monta Ellis. He’s a great fit for the point guard position…

By Andy

June 27, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

Yi and Conley??? I think you ARE dreaming. No way will Conley be there at 11. Are you crazy????? I think the Hawks will draft Horford…snoooooze….and Law….double snoooooooze…..

By TonyJ

June 27, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

How good a player is Yi? He has played against only inferior competition. Hawks should take Al Horford at 3 and get a bigger guard with the 11 pick that with a much better shot that can better postup the smaller guards; Crittenton.

By Pass on YI?!?

June 27, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

You people are crazy! Yi should #1. Youtube his videos. He’s ready to contribute now…2 to 3 years and he will be like KG or better!

By TonyJ

June 27, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this

Yes, check out his Youtube videos and look at the competition.

By Hawkeye

June 27, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Does this team still play here? Where did they go? Are they still playing over at the Omni? No! Where they playing? Phillips? Oh, the Thrashers let them have some time in that arena? How did Tree Rollins do last year? Do you think Spud Webb is going to be more than a novelty? Do you think Kevin Willis will improve upon his rookie season? Has Fratello left to become the Czar of the Telestrator yet? Doc Rivers is a helluva point guard. He might make a helluva head coach someday. Trade Dominique. He is a ballhog. This franchise will see much better years without him hogging the ball all game. Do you think we oughtta sign Koncak to that contract? If we get Mookie Blaylock, Steve Smith, and Dikembe Mutumbo everything will change for the better for this franchise. And if they do, we will make it even better by trading for J.R. Rider. Oh, yeah. Shareef will change everything. He is going to be worth trading Gasol for. Trade for Rasheed and then trade him a day later. But there is a plan. Someday, we will free up all that money and start signing free agents. SOMEDAY! Does anyone own this Fing team?!?!?!?! Does anyone still root for this Fing team?!?!?! If so, why? If so, pound your chest and proudly proclaim I am a hardcore basketball junkie as you watch Billy Knight blunder his way through another important decision. FIRE FING BILLY KNIGHT ALREADY! PUH-LEEEEEEZE! I BEG OF YOU! I IMPLORE YOU! I AM ON MY HANDS AND KNEES EMASCULATING MYSELF! FIRE THAT FRIGGIN’ CLUELESS IDIOT BILLY KNIGHT! PUUUUUUUUUHHHHHH LEEEEEZE!!!!!!

By Patrick

June 27, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this

your off your rocker with Connelly at 11.

By Vince

June 27, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Hawks can offer Joe Johnson and the number 11 Draft pick to Lakers for Kobe. Then offer the 3 pick with Josh Smith or Marvin Williams for KG. With those two player they will be guarantee to go to the Finals. Please

By kevin battle

June 27, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

Picking yi at #3 would be sucide for bk. pick horford at #3 and watch either conley, wright or yi fall down the board and choose them.They spent to much money on claxton to give up on him now.

By GC

June 27, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

Hawks take Horford, then trade him, Marvin Williams and T. Lue to Minnesota for Kevin Garnett.

By mario

June 27, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

This is my take on who I want to see in a Hawks Uniform next Year. These changes will address that problem that we have been having on closing out games. And will solidify the Hawks as a contender in the East.

Trade the 3rd overall pick with Speedy claxton, and Lorenzen wright to Portland for zach Randolph and Dan Dickau. Portland is looking to move the Big Man, and Dan Dickau is a crafty guard who can heat up at any time, he who be great for the new bench mob).

Then sign Rashard Lewis as a Free Agent. He would want to go to a team in the East that has playoff potential(Southeast is an easy division) and in a bigger market than Seattle)

Then trade the 11th pick and Josh Childress(who is from the Bay Area, he played at Stanford) to Golden State for Monta Ellis(the NBA’s most improved player and only 21) , Patrick O’Bryant (O’Bryant was in the Developmental League for Golden State, but can be worked into a reliable 7 footer, with the proper training he is only 21 years old) and the 36th pick, and 46th pick in the second round. With the 36th pick take (Big Baby Glen Davis , from LSU) , and with the 46th pick take Dashaun Wood ( a 5-11 guard who can score and pass from anywhere on the court) .

PG: Monta Ellis/ Dan Dickau/ Tyronn Lue / Anthony Johnson/ Dashaun Wood SG: Joe Johnson / Salim Stoudamire SF: Rashard Lewis/ Josh Smith PF: Zach Randolph/ Marvin Williams/ Glen Davis C: Shelden Williams/Zaza Pachulia / Patrick O’Bryant

By cp

June 27, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

When did Josh Smith play against YI? Was I sleep when this went down becauase I dont think he has played against him. Where do people get this info from. I know JJ has played against him but Josh hasnt… If we trade the 11th for Ridenour then its past time to get rid of BK.