ajcsportstalk

By Rod Stone

April 30, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

The NBA is flip-flopping on the rules. Enforce the rules or get rid of them. You should not be allowed to tough the refs.

By Series Tied

April 30, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Tell me again how Josh Smith didn’t win the Defensive Player of the Year Award…. Tell me again how Old Man KG won the award. No one on that team can defend Joe Johnson, even while triple teaming him, yet KG wins the award. What a joke.

By DAWG

April 30, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

The Hawks can do it. They may not be able to hear the Atlanta fans, but if any of the players read this, know that we’re still with you!

By law29

April 30, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Go Hawks!! Boston have to back up there hype..The Hawks simply have to play hard no pressure….So yea i think the Hawks can win…..o yea

By Atl Dyme

April 30, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

I am sure the Hawks can win tonight if they keep the same focus, drive, and determination that they had at home. I agree with the previous comment. I think Josh Smith should have received DPOY. I also think that Josh Childress should be recognized as the Sixth Man of the Year as well. I feel that the Hawks do not get the respect that they deserve and after eliminating Boston from the playoffs, people will start to give them their long overdue props.Oh I can’t forget Al Horford, he should definitely win ROY.

By 13winhawkfan

April 30, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

I think the hawks showed that they can play with this team. They no longer have to be intimidated by the big bad celtics. The fact that the hawks could take this game and come back to atlanta with a chance to take the series is unbelievable. I think if we keep running that geriatric bunch up and down the floor and run the plays that are called we definatley have a shot. They just dont need to let the rowdy crowd get to them! GO HAWKS

By CeltsinSix

April 30, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

The Hawks well deserved wins came as a result of outplaying the Celts in both games at Atlanta. Let’s not get carried away however. Hawks fans, do what the Phillips Arena announcer keeps imploring you to do and make some noise for Horford, Johnson, Smith and Co., beacuse they will need it. I have no doubt that the Hawks will continue to play hard and with a lot of energy but nonetheless will be outclassed in the next two games. Celts in 6

By Sid

April 30, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

To answer your question. Yes we can win game 5! We have them on their heels. This series is very similar to the 1988 series the hawks and celtics (Old celtics and young hawks)had the greatest nba playoff series of all time. Can we say deja vu!?

By K-Dog

April 30, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

I think they can do it! Even if they don’t win but play really well and keep it close I think they still keep momentum and come home Friday and win again here. Then you’ve got a Game 7 and you never know what might happen there… I’m just glad it has gotten exciting. I will admit that I, along with most, expected a 4 game sweep so CONGRATS HAWKS! Keep playing hard.

By Ryno

April 30, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

JUST. KEEP. RUNNING.

They will fade. Allen is too old and Pierce is too slow. Run them into the ground.

By Fulton

April 30, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

2 points for Atlanta: 1) Other than KG, the C’s are not an athletic team so, continue to go to the hole and put pressure on their defense. 2) Who ever he checks, take Ray Allen off the dribble & wear him down. His legs will not be there for 4th qtr shots. To the ONLY Atlanta team I will ever root for; GO HAWKS!!

By ww5

April 30, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

of course there were no suspensions, that would hurt the nba requirement of a lakers v. celtic final match -up. you can bet there would have been some suspensions if the hawks were playing someone else or if the suspension would have just been on the hawks. and that’s all i have to say about that

By gwarfan

April 30, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

hawks LOST IN 87-88 SERIES.

By maurice

April 30, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I think so too. Josh Smith got snubbed two years in a row on Defensive Player of the Year! KG who! Who blocked the shot in crunch time!? Who was second in blocked shots and top fifteen in steals? Who had seven blocked shots in the game? Not KG. The NBA stinks, but we’ve known this in Atlanta since the three years ago. More especially this year, when they decided to have the Hawks replay a WIN against the Heat. David Stern needs to step down and give Commissioner to Ted Turner at least he’ll be on Atlanta’s side. Oh, and if Horford doesn’t get Rookie of the Year ……

By Mondy

April 30, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

This stinks. KG should’ve been suspended for 2 games for shoving a ref, and Perkins a game for coming off the bench. Hell, I’ll give them Marvin a game for barely stepping out during the scrum. The C’s wouldn’t stand a chance without KG. Stern is up to his old shenanigans… All he wants is a Lakers/Celtics final.

By 16 Titles

April 30, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

Tony Allen will guard Mr. Johnson tonight and the referees will remember how to call the game fairly. Did you see how many more fouls went against the C’s. Back to reality Hawks fans!

By Puleeze

April 30, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Lakers/Celtics the 2 best teams in the league.

The Atl series will provide a nice rating boost. ATL should be done by game 6.

ATL will dominate in 2009!!

By Sidn

April 30, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Your right gwarfan the hawks did lose that series! hopefully we will turn the table this time around, but the series is very similar to the 88 series young vs old.

Go Hawks!!!

By Mack Truk

April 30, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

CeltsinSix,

I bet you were CeltsinFour after the first 2 games, and you probably changed your name to CeltsinFive after Game 3. Now you’re CeltsinSix. Listen, this isn’t an abberation. We’re really in this thing. Everyone thought this would be a cakewalk for KG and the boys. Well, facts are: 1) Boston HAS to win tonight or it’s GOODNIGHT!! 2) If the Hawks can get it done tonight and come home, up 3-2, you’ll have to wear earplugs in the Arena Friday night. The ATL fans are SOOO thirsty for something big to happen with one of our sports franchises, we’re going to be 10 times crazier than we were Monday night!!

Believe what is being told. We have nothing to lose and EVERYTHING, I mean, EVERYTHING to gain!!

LET’S. GO. HAWKS!!

By RA

April 30, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Okay, first off. Stern would have to run for his life if he suspended KG for one game in this series, regardless of how well deserved. Secondly, I don’t want those clowns to have any excuses if Atlanta beats them. As for defensive player of the year, yea, it was a major snub job, but they won’t be able to do that forever. Remember, J-smoove is only 22 years old. He’ll be a multi-year winner of that award before his games are over and maybe one or two MVP trophies to boot.

Now, let’s talk about a true crime. 17 out of 20 ESPN analysts voted Kevin Durant Rookie of the Year over Al Horford. Sad. It sets the precident that if you can score the most points as a rookie, you’ll get the award. I mean, come on. Seattle didn’t even get into the playoffs this year! I mean it just throws so much out the window, rebounding, defense, FG percentage, double doubles in a season. Shouldn’t all that count for anything?

By Mr. JMT

April 30, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Help me understand something? I’m from the ATL, and I’m having problems understanding why we are not supporting this young Hawks team in the media. They should be on the front page of the AJC and the top officials like Govenor Perdue and Mayor Franklin should be leading the charge to make the city rally behind this team. They haven’t done a thing. Everyone counted this young team out and look how they have shocked the world. They have Boston worried right now. In stead of putting the Hawks on the main cover page, we have a cover story on private quarters. Are you kidding me? When are we going to come together in this city and be a true sports town.

By Rutuger

April 30, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

I gotta say it’s gonna be EXTREMELY difficult for us to win in Boston…

of course, after the way we’ve dominated the past two games, anything is possible… I’m just ecstatic I get to come in town and see them on Friday at the Highlight Factory.

RUN, RUN, RUN… DEFENSE, DEFENSE, DEFENSE!!

GO HAWKS!!!

By candi ann

April 30, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

i believe that the hawks will win tonight. i have seen them play some good games and i think that they have the potential to win tonight. They just need to remain focused and dont let any thing destract them and play their best. i believe they will do great. go hawks!!!

By candi ann

April 30, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

i believe that the hawks will win tonight. i have seen them play some good games and i think that they have the potential to win tonight. They just need to remain focused and dont let any thing destract them and play their best. i believe they will do great. go hawks!!!

By candi ann

April 30, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

i believe that the hawks will win tonight. i have seen them play some good games and i think that they have the potential to win tonight. They just need to remain focused and dont let any thing destract them and play their best. i believe they will do great. go hawks!!!

By candi ann

April 30, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

i believe that the hawks will win tonight. i have seen them play some good games and i think that they have the potential to win tonight. They just need to remain focused and dont let any thing destract them and play their best. i believe they will do great. go hawks!!!

By phar71

April 30, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

We have to keep getting to the line. TO get to the line we have to drive. If we get to the line and the fans starting booing the refs like crazy, there is a good chance the Celts will get wrapped up in that and get some T’s lose there compusure and we might be able to steal one.

By Glenn

April 30, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

They will not get any calls or breaks . The NBA is horrified of the possibility that the Hawks could win this series. Oh how they want that Celtics , Lakers final . If KG was a Hawk he would be suspended for tonights game . I would love to see them win but from now on it will be an uphill battle & thats not counting the Celtics .

By RA

April 30, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Hey, Mr. JMT Come here, closer, closer, that’s it. YOU LIVE IN A VERY SKEPTICAL CITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Mack Truk

April 30, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Man, these Celts fans are so sure of themselves. Tony Allen is nothing special, and of course, everyone wants to use the ol’ “refs calling the game unfair” crap. KG should’ve been suspended. Talk about preferential treatment. David Stern is a lame, and no one getting suspended is the only way to keep Garnett safe. Yes, the NBA is rigged!! Stern is the real Donaghey!!

By Michelle

April 30, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Of course the Hawks can win…if George Bush can find money from somewhere and all of a sudden pass it out all over the USA…. THE HAWKS CAN WIN

Have a great day everyone!

By brent a.

April 30, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

I think the x factor could be Mike Bibby.

He needs to reach deep down and pull out the type of performance he had in game 5 of the 2002 WCF.

By Boone

April 30, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this

No way. Perkins and Williams should be suspended for leaving the bench. Doesn’t matter how far off the bench you are. The rules are clear.

Not sure how you could suspend KG for standing there while a bench player with no real talent gets in his face and gives him a head but. I think everyone and their brother knew he was trying to bait him.

Typically to win an award, your team has to finish above .500. Sorry Josh Smith, maybe next year.

The shot at the end of game 4 with the dweeb in the dress shirt and the newly purchased jersey over it was classic. And Boston has bandwagon fans?

By vannmc

April 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

damn, i think i have a fever, oh yeah IT’S HAWKS FEVER, catch it baby! GO HAWKS!

By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER

April 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Lets go Hawks keep playing with that fire and intensity! We are pulling for ya’ll down here!

By yoye

April 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

Pathetic decision by NBA Rulers to allow KG to play tonight for Boston. This is unheard of.

By Atl Dyme

April 30, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

i don’t know about you my fellow atliens but i am tired of people putting the ATLANTA HAWKS down. i have been a fan since the 80s (Spud, Niq, and Doc era). and i thinks this is our year to finally defeat boston. i mean their team is too cocky, kg sucks and gets away with alot and i don’t recall him playing d in any of the playoffs games (correct me if i’m wrong). so you know i was p** to find out he won DPOY, which should have gone to JOSH SMITH AKA J SMOOVE. i am worried that AL HORFORD AKA BIG AL will not get ROY even though he deserves it. i also upset that JOSH CHILDRESS AKA J CHILL does not get recognition as a sixth man because he makes great plays that helps the starters a lot (go back and watch games 3 and 4). i could go on and on. has the commissioner been to any other playoff games? if not why was he at game 4? any theories?

By Mondy

April 30, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Stern had no qualms sitting Amare for barely coming off the bench during the Suns most crucial game against the Spurs last year. KG freaking shoved a ref, Perkins clearly comes off the bench and both get to play? Even you arrogant, blabbering Celtics fans have to admit that sans KG, they would be run off the court tonight. It all smells to me.

By The OMNI

April 30, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

remember folks we are not dealing with lame brains like roger goddell and bud selig, david stern is not going to sacrifice a very compelling series by suspending players for something that was not cut and dry - keep in mind also that regardless of how suspensions would have affected the celtics they would have affected us more because we basically have a 7 man rotation

By Atl Dyme

April 30, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

sorry i just can’t post enough comments. i feel so strongly about the ATLANTA HAWKS being able to eliminate the celtics i just can’t talk about it enough.

they key to winning is everyone on the team contributing (the bench included)staying focused, and not giving up. ATL HAWKS CAN DO IT AND WILL, JUST WATCH! LETS GO HAWKS

By Check it Out

April 30, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

www.blackthen.com

By Jay

April 30, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

I’m going to tonights game in Bos and if Joe J. plays like he did the other night the Hawks will win, but what are the chances of that happening? Slim and none.. C’s dominated in front of the home crowd in the first two games and we expect more of the same tonight. Have fun now Hawks fans because by this time next week you’ll be talking about next year

By Horford Rox

April 30, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

When #5 is flyin’, ANYTHING is possible.

Can JJ have an encore of game performance 4? IF so, we need it in G5!

Marvin ain’t too popular on the ole blog, but he IS capable of knocking down some shots! Tonight could be his break through performance. If so, cut him a break. If not, I’ll take the heat. (I promise not to scream and cry in front of a camera like that crazy B Spears fan!)

I loved watching S Jones play D right before halftime of G4. Woody doesn’t play him much, but I believe in the young fella.

Go HAWX and HEADBUTT EM IF YOU HAVE TO!

By Bobby V

April 30, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

Mike Woodson, Coach of the Year. Go Hawks, the east coast “showtime”.

By Ish

April 30, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Now come on people. Yes the Hawks did outplay the Celtics in Games 3 & 4.. But really, the Celtics have 3 potential Hall of Famers… Come on, a lot of us including 90% of ATL didn’t think the Hawks would even when a game let alone 2 games. Even if the Hawks don’t win tonight or Friday, they’ve had a great Season.. Celtics in 6…..

By Dev

April 30, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

lol at Titles talkin about Tony Allen like he’s Bruce Bowen or Raja Bell or Shane Battier, HAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA

By I was there!!!!

April 30, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

This is my game advice to the Hawks, and it’s based on seeing it for two nights in a row:

They can’t beat you, only you can beat yourself.

Don’t turn the ball over, box out every time on D, and take good shots on offense.

It’s the same game in Boston as it is here, they can’t guard Joe, Horford, or Josh. Bibby and Marvin’s shots are gravy, and they must hit them since they’ll be open.

Go Hawks!

By Johnny H

April 30, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

I don’t necesarrily see why this series is so surprising? I mean Kevin Garnett is much better than Marvin Williams, but passed that the matchups are not that off:

Rondo has been a little better than Bibby.

Joe Johnson is a much better overall player than Ray Allen.

Josh Smith plays just as well all around as Paul Pierce, just not as much of a household name for ESPN to promote.

Al Horford is better than Kendrick Perkins.

Josh Childress is the best bench player in the series and Zaza can play underneath as well as any Celtic bench player.

Basically, the biggest difference between the two teams is the huge difference in experience. The Celtics played with drastically more intensity than the Hawks did all year, which to their credit, left them with the number one seed in the playoffs. However, this doesn’t matter come playoff time.

KG should have been suspended for pushing a ref. Do you think Rasheed Wallace would have been suspended? I do. Do you think Carmelo Anthony should have been suspended? I do.

KG is also one of the more overrated players of the post-MJ era. He is one of the most elite talents of all time, but how many times has he been out of the 1st round of the playoffs? Once and that was when he had Latrell Spreewell and Sam Cassell in their primes to help him. How many times did he miss the playoffs completely in his prime? Three. THREE!! Name another elite talent in NBA history that has done that in their PRIME!! Kobe Bryant would be chastised daily if he pulled that.

Go Hawks! Steal this one tonight. We got the momentum right now, and nobody on that team has the killer instinct to lock up a win. Our shoes are wet, we got the intensity, we can pull it off. Don’t let the overrated fans of Boston get in your head. They are just mad because they think their city is New York but it blatently isn’t and it is still cold with nothing to do.

By Hawks Shock World

April 30, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

I agree with so many of you. I can’t believe the lack of love the Hawks have felt from people in Atlanta. You complain with they lose and won’t support them when they win. The media acts like it’s just another game. Hardly any press has been done on them and when they do receive press, there is still a negative spin on it. No wonder the new people who move here don’t care about our teams. They must think if their own doesn’t love them, then why should we. When you go to games, sometime there are more people cheering for the other team than the Hawks. Come on media - SUPPORT the Hawks. The Hawks CAN WIN and WILL SHOCK THE WORLD!

By Boston native

April 30, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

The hawks can win but i doubt it.

By bulldawg

April 30, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

I did really believe this would be a sweep, the Hawks are a Jeckle & an Hyde team, But man if they play with the heart they have had the last 2 games the Celtics better watch out. And really what have the Big three ever won, it is not like their Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman. And I am not so sure they ar 3 future Hall of famers, KG, yes, but Allen, and peirce I don’t thinks so. Go Hawks, God bless

By ignition

April 30, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

They mos def have a great shot at winning this game.. They can not guard Josh, I hope he comes out focused and just smashes on the Celtics.. This is gonna be fun to watch..

By Ryder

April 30, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

RA brah, ESPN and the NBA was going to make sure that once Greg Oden went down that Durant had the award wrapped up in October so it would make for a good rivalry when Oden returns. Al Horford could’ve averaged 20-10 and still would’ve lost out.

It’s not about the points, it’s about the commercials made and hype produced.

Now on to more serious matters. Atlanta cannot be intimidated by the home crowd or this will be a quick game tonight. I was surprised that neither Perkins nor Marvin was suspended. I wonder if Celtics Nation errr, ESPN will even comment on that.

By Big Daddy

April 30, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Go Hawks Have Fun and Don’t Worry About it.

By b-rab32

April 30, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

i agree with rod stone the nba is flip flopping the rules i am a big marvin williams fan but when him and the boston player stepped on the court the other night they both should have been suspended just like amare stoudamire last year but yes i do believe the hawks can win this series if they believe in there self

GO ATL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By priest

April 30, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

Hawks can win in Boston, just gotta play their game. by the way, Coach Wodson is coaching these guys. i have never liked him and called for his head along with everyone. But this guy is coaching. When they lose focus and he calls a timeout, he is coaching them and keeping them focused. great job Hawks, great job Woody! (never thought i’d say that Woody part either)

By FIRERICHT

April 30, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

KG is a whiner and a loser! I would like to see him throw an elbow and my throat. Remind him he’s not in High School anymore. SMith and Johnson will have their own Tea Party tonight in Boston. Go Hawks!

By RA

April 30, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

Ryder, you’re right of course, but it stinks like Sam Cassell’s old gym socks…

As for suspensions, I’ve already made myself clear on that point in a dozen different blogs, but just one more time for emphasis, NO EXCUSES. I don’t want Boston to be able to say anything excusing themselves if Atlanta wins this series. I think it’s good for this series that there were no suspensions. HOWEVER, I think it’s bad for the game. The second that Kevin Garnett put his hands on an official, for whatever reason, he should have been tossed from that game and then suspended from G5. Mark me, they’ve set a precident where it will be all to easy for a player to look away, throw an official to the ground and then claim that they didn’t know who they were touching or that they were just caught up in the moment. There are some lines that have to be drawn for the simple reason of making an example out of anyone that would dare cross them. Garnett crossed that line, and nothing happened. That nothing does not bode well for the future. (And for the record, I’d say the exact same thing if it had been Joe Johnson shoving an official.)

By RA

April 30, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Now,I have said on a few occaisions that Kevin Garnett is classless. I stand by that, but in the very same and not so contradicting breath, I will say that he is deserving of a championship. Think back, Dennis Rodman, Bill Lambeer, Isaiah Thomas, all of those guys were nothing short of despicable in their methods, but great players all and deserving of a championship. However, there is a difference between being deserving of a championship and a deserving champion. I hope that KG will see that one day.

By Cody

April 30, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

Can the Hawks win? you dam skippy! I believe for this to happen, the Hawks must continue to be aggressive and take it to the Celtics. Don’t wait on JJ to do the job, everyone must step it up. Once the double/triple team starts on JJ, Bibby,Smith,Chill,Will and Big Al has to make them feel the pain and let them know that we are a team we all can put it down! The Celtics are not ready for this Atlanta team and I do feel that the Hawks has the confidence and determination to prove that. Go HAWKS!

By NBA-Fan

April 30, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

I’m happy for the Hawks. I never expected this, but you have to admit THIS IS A STRANGE BALL CLUB. They don’t play the game the way it is supposed to be played. That is why when they lose they look absolutly disgusting and when they win they astound us with their athletic play. Is this a maturity/player issue or a coaching problem? I do not intend to suggest that Woodson does not know what they should be doing (I’m sure he is more frustrated by their play than anybody else), but rather that there is an inability to effectively communicate, i.e. TO GET THE POINTS ACCROSS. I also think that the central figure in all this wierdness (both good and bad) is Josh Smith.

AJC, How about a blog on Hawk’s style of play. I would like to know what others think!

By Kareef

April 30, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

The Hawks finally woke up and realized that they are an OFFICIAL team, I am so proud of them finally realizing that THEY CAN WIN THIS SERIES, because of the fact that playoff experience is not really a factor in this series since all these guys but a few have the experience so its ALL EMOTIONAL, and what is more emotional than being an “UNDERDOG”.nothing.. individually, the Hawks can defend Garnett with JSmith on him as we saw in past 4 games, Garnett has not really been a major force (which is hurting the Celtics), so you take those facts and add some drive and emotion and the leadership skills of Josh Childress and Joe Johnson , you have two victories coming right up, IF MIKE BIBBY CAN PLAY HIS GAME……… hmmmm….

By McRly?

April 30, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Difference between games 1 and 2 and game 5:

1) The Hawks didn’t know if they could beat the C’s. Now they Know.

2) The Hawks have all the momentum.

3) JJ has proven that once he gets hot, noone on your team can stop him-and please, save that ‘Allen is our best defender’ nonsense. Please, PLEASE stick him out there on JJ. Allen is one crossover away from 2 broken ankles, trust me - like Smitty says, JJ will put him in the BLENDER haha. The only guy I’ve ever seen truly get in JJ’s grill honestly and give him trouble was Kobe, who held him to 18 in their last game. Joe, by the way, held Kobe to 23. It was a fantastic defensive matchup.

So Celts fans, Lemme do this. I’m not going to ask you who you think will win the series, I know you’re forced to regurgitate an answer. And I will by no means come here and say that the Hawks will undoubtedly win this series, because by all accounts they shouldn’t have gotten this far, so let me instead ask you this, and ponder your honest answer: Who looks scared, Celtics or Hawks?

This week the Highlight Factory is coming to YOUR town.

ATLANTA HAWKS BOMAYE

By Kareef

April 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

EVERYBODY NEEDS TO BE ON THE SAME ENERGY LEVEL AS JOSH CHILDRESS…. PERIOD…. THEN THEY WILL BLOW THE CELTIC OUT EVERY GAME.

By the Irishman

April 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

HAWKS = SCRUBS

Please. No chance. Keep dreaming Atlanta.

By Kareef

April 30, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

EVERYBODY NEEDS TO BE ON THE SAME ENERGY LEVEL AS JOSH CHILDRESS…. PERIOD…. THEN THEY WILL BLOW THE CELTIC OUT EVERY GAME.

By Steve

April 30, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

Well, nobody thought that they could win one game, much less two. But they did. I’ve had a friend telling me all year long that this was a young team that showed a lot of promise and was poised to surprise a lot of people but the truth is I thought he was just wishful thinking and didn’t care enough to check them out except for the odd game on Sportsouth. And they didn’t look that good to me. Obviously, something’s changed, whether it’s the addition of Bibby or whether Coach Woodson is bringing a level of maturity to a group that didn’t possess it before now. But something’s different. I watched both of the games from Philips and I was stunned. These young guys can play basketball! Heck, they play DEFENSE, which to me is the hallmark of a truly good team and something that I haven’t seen much of in the NBA in years, which is why I’m more of a college ball fan. But the Hawks are playing defense and it’s what has won them the last two games even though the Celtics put the clamps on the Hawks normal run and gun. It’s been a blast to watch. Can they win in Boston? It’s doubtful. I don’t care what anyone says, the refs in the NBA favor the home team. It’s always been that way and it always will. But, if the Hawks can find a way to keep their composure in a hostile environment, if they can continue to play the kind of defense they’ve been playing, if they can open up the lanes again with outside shooting and if they can get Boston in foul trouble again, yes they can win in Boston. Lots of ifs though.

By jeff

April 30, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

I’m a Hawks fan to the bone. My heart says yes, we can beat them tonight. However, our horrible road record and my mind says, no. Then again, I thought we’d be swept so…

By Kellie J

April 30, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

YES THE HAWKS WILL DO IT!!! I am so happy for Joe Johnson who more than deserves all the recognition and accolades he is receiving. He’s played so hard for our team and deserves his time to shine in the playoffs!! Josh Smith has stepped his game up over the past couple of years and deserves his recognition as well. Per the reports Durant will get ROY but Al Horford deserves it just as much as Durant. And Josh Childress is our little energizer, he comes of the bench and plays well. This team is young, athletic, vibrant, and confident!! Despite being written off they worked hard and didn’t give up. And the end result has been getting into the playoffs and winning two games (so far!) against the number one seed in the east. The Celtics, the team that everyone picked to represent the east in the finals, the team with the best regular season record in the NBA. The Hawks are ready for them tonight. Yes they can win!! Boston fans better get ready for further disappointment.

Let’s Go HAWKS!!! I’ll be waiting on your return and ready to play my part as sixth (wo)man, as I have all season long, to close this thing out!! Love Yall!!!

Have a good day everybody!!

By RA

April 30, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

We’re living the dream right now my dear Irishman. The thing of it is, our dream is your nightmare. May we never wake from it! And may your team never wake at all.

By Dean

April 30, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

I’m glad they didn’t bench KG that way they won’t have excuses when they lose again. They think they are entitled to a title becuase they had a great regular season. They are frustrated because they have no answer to what the Hawks are doing to them. Just like the Super Bowl! This time the HAWKS will destroy the dreams of Boston. Oh, and tonight, boo all you want you fair wethered jerks. He said it, he meant it, and it’s true!!!! GO HAWKS!!!!

By Adam

April 30, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

I have been a huge Hawks fan since the Dominique days but I am also realist.

All I really wanted was a single win so we would not get swept.

Now we have two wins which I thought was impossible and now I am elated.

Lets take the Celtics.

By Get Real ATL

April 30, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

This article will help:

http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/bobryanblog/2008/04/panic_time.html

By Saturday it will be time to focus on the Braves! Hahaha…

Sincerely - From a loving C’s fan, Doug

By Q

April 30, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

the missing piece to this team going to the next level is community involvement and fan excitement. I agree with a previous post…why is the gov and mayor not pushing the excitment?

I must say that before I went to monday night’s game, I was not paying much attention to the hawks. Now, I realize that what’s missing is the fan excitement. the building on monday night was electric and i truly believe that the hawks fed off of that. it was like i could see the hustle and desire growing as the night went on.

i am now on the ‘bandwagon’ and will stay there. i will attend as many games as i can next season. in full support.

although i can’t attend friday night’s game, my husband will be there in support and i will be in front of the TV.

if the hawks do not win tonight, i don’t think that they will win this series…and if they do win tonight, i believe they will take the series.

with that in mind, other NBA teams had better be on watch for next season because the talent of the hawks and their heart fueled by the fan excitement will make them real contenders!

By ugaman

April 30, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

well just about everybody on espn said that the hawks would be smited at the hands of king pierce and lose by twenty in game four, so the answer to the question is yes, the hawks can and will win. KG PP and RA are old and slow, rajon rondo gives us more fits than anyone on there team, the hawks can win with good shot selection and defense

By Realist

April 30, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this

Hey while we are at it, Knight should have been Executive of the Year and Woodson should have been Coach of the Year.

Give me a break. When this team loses the next two games, can we please still fire both of them? Or do we have to pretend that the last two games make up for 5 years of embarrassment?

By JuliusCesaer

April 30, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Boston will crack and fade. Pierce and Garnett, and Allen are ancient and slow a foot to stop the youthful and quick Hawks. Im happy for Joe Johnson because Johnson took a BIG RISK in signing with Atlanta, giving the Hawks enough time to build into this powerhouse team that they have become. Joe Johnson may be the best player in the association, even better than Kobe Bryant, LaBron James or Chris Paul. Joe Johnsons performance last game was the best single game performance Ive ever seen in the NBA by any single player past or present. Go Hawks, throttle the Celtics in 6 games!

By GT

April 30, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

We are going to get killed, but we come back home this weekend. If we win in Boston tonight it will be the biggest sport’s upset in the history of Atlanta.

By heybud

April 30, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Can the Hawks win tonight? Sure, it CAN be done.

Will the Hawks win tonight? Not a chance.

By roro

April 30, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

IF THEY BELIEVE IT! I BELIEVE IT!

By kevo

April 30, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

If the hawks can control the tempo, which is hard to do against boston, and play good defense…..they will win game 5. They cant get caught up in bostons slow half court pace. The Celts will dominate the game if that happens. Then again, JJ looked pretty good in ATLs half court offense at the end of game 4 haha. but they need more than him 2 win. I know they can do it…..GO HAWKS!!!!!

By kevo

April 30, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

If the hawks can control the tempo, which is hard to do against boston, and play good defense…..they will win game 5. They cant get caught up in bostons slow half court pace. The Celts will dominate the game if that happens. Then again, JJ looked pretty good in ATLs half court offense at the end of game 4 haha. but they need more than him 2 win. I know they can do it…..GO HAWKS!!!!!

By JerrySeinfeld

April 30, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Amen Realist: That is precisely what Ive been saying about Knight and woodsen. While the bandwagen jumpers and uneducated fans have been slamming Knight and Woodsen and calling for their dismissals, Ive been saying all along that they should be praised for their fine work: executive of the year and coach of the year respectively. The reason why no one noticed it is because the Hawks underachieved so badly during the regular year that very few saw this coming. Ive been predicting this since the acquisition of Bibby because I know how great and talented Bibby is. Mike Bibby has the ability to make those around him shine like a Gold Plated Jewel. Bibby almost singlehandedly hoisted the Sacramento Kings into the championship series. The only thing that thwarted that effort was a very lucky shot by Robert Horry. Had Horrys shot not gone in Bibby would have had himself a championship ring. NOW HE WILL GET ONE WITH THE ATLANTA HAWKS FOR HIS FINE LEADERSHIP AND HIS EXCELLENCE AND FOR ELEVATING HIS TEAMMATES TO BELIEVING THEMSELVES WORTHY OF THE PRIZE.

By bulldog

April 30, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

Hey “Get Real ATL”, why don’t you try again there, Sport!

To Hawks fans: Do you want to know the part that really scares the Celtics and their fans? This year is their one and only big chance to win a championship because they are one of the oldest teams in the league. As our young, up and coming Hawks have shown the past two games.

They thought that they had pulled a Yankees on everybody and assembled the best team that money can buy. Now, they are on the verge of what Charles Barkley says will be the biggest upset in NBA playoff history.

As another Hawks fan made reference to, you could see it on the Celtics player’s faces in the fourth quarter of Game 4…They couldn’t stop the Hawks!!

By Celtics Win in 4 Games!

April 30, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

Suckers.

By Melvin Flowers/ Macon Georgia

April 30, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are very young. They Need More inside help center and Shooting Guard for next season.The Hawks could be a force in 2009 if the owners pick that center and guard up. The Hawks will lose tonight and win game six at home to loose in game 7 @ Boston. I think we have an NBA Team In Georgia “Go Hawks”

Melvin Flowers Macon Georgia

By Melvin Flowers/ Macon Georgia

April 30, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

The Hawks are very young. They Need More inside help center and Shooting Guard for next season.The Hawks could be a force in 2009 if the owners pick that center and guard up. The Hawks will lose tonight and win game six at home to loose in game 7 @ Boston. I think we have an NBA Team In Georgia “Go Hawks”

Melvin Flowers Macon Georgia

By RA

April 30, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

Here’s the thing Realist Pete Babcock left that team a mess. They had to start from scratch. Now, BK has made some of the most bonehead moves that a GM could make over the past five years, and some of the best. He took a huge gamble on Joe Johnson that paid off. He took a not so huge gamble on Marvin Williams that hasn’t paid off as much yet. He passed on Chris Paul who is, I think, the greatest player of his generation. He also drafted Josh Smith, who, despite the fact that he’s a head case, is also one of the most physically gifted talents since Domonique Wilkins. By the way, Smith is bigger, stronger, and a better defender than Nique… All in all, judging BK is a mixed bag, and Mike Woodson, could only do what he could do with the pieces that he had to work with, pieces that up until this year were too young and too inexperienced to do much of anything regardless of how good or bad the coaching was… Now, I’m not saying bring Billy and Woody back. Make no mistakes there. I think that if there’s a better GM or a better coach out there, snatch them up because right now, the franchise is at a place where they could benefit from that one talented role player that an astute GM could bring in, and they’re ready to be guided to greatness by a great coach, but I will say that they wouldn’t be here if not for Billy and Woody. They inherited a franchise in transition, and they suffered through the growing pains that came with that, but now that the transition is over and the kids are almost grown,I hope that the judgements on their upbringing might be a little more…balanced.

By Hal

April 30, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

I want the Hawks to win in 6 games, but I am a realist.

Hawks in 7.

By BeeTwn

April 30, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

SMACKDOWN! its over for these pesty Hawks. No mercy tonight, Celts need to blow these birds out the sky.

By Paul Pierce

April 30, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

Just wait till I rep West Side on Horford you buncha punk Atl bandwagon fans. I throw gang signs b***…

By alex

April 30, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

The Hawks can definitley win game 5.Theyv’e already gotten under the Celtics skin and everyone knows that know the Celtics arent as confident amymore.As long as Joe,the Joshes and Bibby can keep up their strong play,then the Hawks are gonn keep giving the Celtics problems,and will hopefully win this series

By JB

April 30, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

Yes the Hawks can do it. They are just naive enough to think they can actually win this series. And that’s great. One of my favorite quotes is “Scientifically a bumblebee isn’t supposed to be able to fly. The only thing is, the bee doesn’t know that” Visit this link to the Boston Herald for a priceless pic of Garnett…lol http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/basketball/celtics/view.bg?articleid=1090679&srvc=home&position=2

By Ryder

April 30, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Keep BK and let Woody go. He cannot lead this team to the long road to a title if he can’t develop the talent on the bench. D’antoni would be perfect because he has some defensive studs like Smoove, Horford, and JJ he could use to build around. Not to mention he could have Atlanta go up tempo full time.

By RA

April 30, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Mercy is a very funny thing BeeTwn. It tends to be shown to those that are merciful. The first two games showed that the Celtics wouldn’t be dishing out any mercy. The last two games showed that they shouldn’t expect any. I think that the only thing that’s for certain is the fact that as far as this series goes, mercy won’t enter into the equation.

By Long Time Hawks Fan

April 30, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks can play like they’ve done the last two games, they can beat Boston at their place tonight. They must worktogether, stay the course, and use good strategy like they’ve done the last few games and they’ll win. The second round of the playoffs awaits us. LETS GO HAWKS!!!!!!!! DON’T STOP BELIEVIN!!!!!!!!

By RealityWakerUpper

April 30, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

Surely they can win and try to move towards a .500 season. All that has to be done is to kidnap the Big Three and hide them in the Club of the South. Dream on. Hawks wins have been squeakers. Watch the blow-out tonight!

By Long Time Hawks Fan

April 30, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

If the Hawks can play like they’ve done the last two games, they can beat Boston at their place tonight. They must work together, stay the course, and use good strategy like they’ve done the last few games and they’ll win. The second round of the playoffs awaits us. LETS GO HAWKS!!!!!!!! DON’T STOP BELIEVIN!!!!!!!!

By Mike

April 30, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this

In My eyes KG is a overated and over paid basketball player.He’s good but he’s not as good as people make him look.I think the Hawks can win but it depends on what Hawk team is going to show up is it going to be the Hawks in game 1 and 2 or the Hawks in game 3 and 4.

By Charlie n a

April 30, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this

I know this is off topic, but if the Suns are dumb enough to fire Mike D’Antoni, can you imagine a better hire for the Hawks? Think about his ability to teach fast-paced, team-oriented offense combined with the talented, athletic, one-on-one defenders like Smith, Johnson, and Horford. He could make the Hawks a dangerous team.

By AL4ROY

April 30, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

I really think the Hawks can take them in Game 5, because the Hawks are capable of playing well. Being in Atlanta did help them, but a lot of the time when they were doing well, they weren’t rellying on crowd momentum, they were using team momentum. So I don’t think the Boston crowd will be too much of a factor. They just have to start off well and use team momentum to get through this game. Go Hawks, Al 4 Rookie of the Year!

By celticsfan

April 30, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Hawks have NO chance against a hostile enviroment. Can you say CHOKE under pressure.

By Hawkhead

April 30, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

ATL can definitely pull off a victory..Like some fans here that pointed out about running, its absolutely critical for the Hawks to tire out the Old celts..For this we need some fast feet.Mike, please put Marvin on bench..Is it just me or did any fans here found him absolutely sloppy.he got me laughing when he just couldnt keep up with the ball while running and resulted in some unwanted turnovers..Joe and Horford have been really good, but Josh Smith is the player of the series hands down.Even if they lose, I am really happy with the way Hawks showed their heart to step up their game.

By RA

April 30, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

RealityWakerUpper Oh, I’m sorry,I didn’t realize that the “big three” didn’t play in games 3 and 4. I didn’t know that they were out clubbing, while our team was humbling yours. Come to think about it, that guy on the court, that kinda looked like Kevin Garnett, couldn’t have possibly been frustrated enough to elboe Za Za Pachulia or stupid enough to shove a ref, but then again… Oh, and that dude that looked like Paul Pierce, you know the one that was supposed to wipe the floor with us in game four? He couldn’t possibly have been the same guy that got into early foul trouble on Marvin Williams. Oh, and that guy that was the spitting image of Ray Allen, he couldn’t have allowed Joe Johnson to score 30 points on him, excuse me, 35, and 20 in one quarter. Nah, they must have been clubbing over those last couple of games because their twins looked old, and slow, and tired. As for squekers, let me check and make sure that those still count, yep they do. So, the series is tied up 2-2 and it doesn’t matter if your team wins or loses it because even if they get by my team, my team is going to make sure that they’re too tired to do anything with anybody else.

By RA

April 30, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

celticsfan please allow me to share a revelation with you. If you are not in a position of expectation, it is impossible to CHOKE. You merely lose. But take a team that won oh say 66 games in a season and features three of the greatest players in the history of the game, if they should lose, well, that would be CHOKING indeed.

By Aaron

April 30, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

We don’t care about your regular season record. We don’t care if the commish is on your side. WE ARE RUNNING YOU. This squad has found themselves at the right time. All the ATL fans who purchased tickets for friday but not last saturday WE ARE NOT MAD AT YOU. Your past woes as a Hawks fan are justified. But now is a different time. WE ARE HERE NOW.

By ms

April 30, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

It DOESN’T MATTER IF WE WIN TONIGHT. JUST KNOW THE HAWKS WILL SHOCK THE SPORTS WORLD!!!

By Allnonie the real HAWKS FAN!!!

April 30, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

First - It wasn’t a fluke. Second - We beat them fair and square, so don’t downplay the win. Lastly - I have been a fan since I was a child when Dominique played and a season ticket holder for 4 yrs when we were the worst team in the NBA. I always knew the guys could do it. When we acquired Joe (aka J squared for two), things took a turn for the positive. It has been a long road filled with ups and downs and I think we should just be happy for the guys and send them love from the ATL all the way to old Boston. The Celts fans think we are country bumpkins that wouldn’t know a dribble if we saw a basketball. I was at both playoff games and what I saw was a sea of white towels waving and folks proud we proved those Celts wrong… Let’s lift them up, not put them down.

GO HAWKS!!!

By ceticsfan

April 30, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Good point RA. you said if they lose. will not happen.

By Allnonie the real HAWKS FAN!!!

April 30, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

Joe Johnson is the most unappreciated player in the League… But I know your worth!!!

By Ken Strickland

April 30, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

The Hawks can definitely win tonights gm if Woodson has paid attention. In the 4th qtrs of the last 2gms, Celtic players were too exhausted to mount a typical Celtic comeback. In the 4th qtr of the last gm, everyone knew what the Hawks were going to do and who would get the ball. Yet, there wasn’t a single Celtic that could do a thing to stop it.

(1)We should pressure their PG’s, who aren’t very quick or fast, especially Cassell, full court for 4qtrs.

(2)We should push the ball, even on made baskets, on every possession even if there isn’t a viable scoring opportunity. You want to force them to run back on DEF and scramble to stop the ball and pickup their DEF assignments on every possession. We should play the 1st 3 qtrs to setup the 4th by taking their legs out from under them, especially their big 3.

(3)Whenever they take an outside shot, our defender should immediately take off down court. If they miss and we get the rebound, we should have an easy score. Even if it’s a make, we should still have an opportunity at an easy basket. Eventually, the shooter will be affected because he has to sprint back immediately after the shot to defend the long pass. By the 4th qtr, shooters with tired legs might start rushing shots and/or not following through on their shots.

YES, OUR YOUNG PREDATORS(HAWKS)CAN WIN THIS GAME PEOPLE. GO YOU HIGH FLYING HAWKS AND SHOW THOSE SHAMROCKS WHAT YOU’RE MADE OF.

By Hawksin7

April 30, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

That’s right, baby. Hawks will drop one tonight, win game 6 at home, then go up and win in Beantown when it counts. Hawks in 7!

By LaVelle

April 30, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Our Atlanta Hawks will make History as the biggest underdogs to beat the Boston Celtics. Furthermore, we will give the arrogant Boston Fans pain for years to come. Go Hawks!!!!!!!!!!

By RA

April 30, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this

Oh, I’ve learned to always put in the qualifyer “if.” Only a Sith deals in absolutes. Like when people said that the Hawks would never win one game in this series and that they would absolutely get swept…

By Crazy Diamond

April 30, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

I did not think they would win one game against Boston. Was I wrong. Looks like anything is possible the way Joe Johnson, Josh Smith and the rest of the team are playing.

I will not predict a Hawks loss.

Reminds me of the 1991 Braves down the stretch and vs Pittsburgh.

By Joe

April 30, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Are we dreaming ?????????? Hawks lose big, 120-88. Sorry !!!

By HawksFried

May 1, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Gee…where are all the Hawks fans after that bludgeoning last night ???

LOLOLOLOL