Atlanta Hawks: Jamal Crawford prepared to ‘go elsewhere’ without extension

Jamal Crawford isn’t happy about his contract situation. It’s been obvious to those around him at Hawks camp that his demeanor isn’t the same. He’s being a professional but the enthusiasm is lacking.

So far, Crawford has stopped short of publicly expressing his displeasure with the Hawks for not offering a contract extension. In that way he’s taking a different tact than Kenyon Martin in Denver and Aaron Brooks in Houston.

But Crawford’s stance might be shifting a bit. At media day Monday he was careful to avoid talking about the possibility of leaving the Hawks. Now, with GM Rick Sund still not offering an extension and also resisting trade inquiries, Crawford sounds more urgent about the issue.

“You think something is solid and a family you just want that to be what it is,” Crawford said today “I would love to be here long term, no doubts about it. I would love to lock that up before I become a free agent. I want to make it work here. But if that is not the plan I guess I will go elsewhere.”

Crawford will make $10.1 million this year. He is seeking a new deal after winning the NBA’s Sixth Man Award while helping the Hawks to 53 victories and the No. 3 playoffs seed in the East. The uncertainty with the expiring collective bargaining agreement also is a major factor in his desire for an extension.

Sund has declined comment on Crawford’s situation, citing his policy of not discussing players’ contracts. He typically hasn’t offered extensions on veteran contracts. The exceptions have been cases in which the player could expect a maximum contract in free agency like Joe Johnson.

If Crawford were to become a free agent next summer, he would be among the top players available.

“There is a part of me that is comfortable with that,” he said. “But my whole thing is loyalty. I’m a loyal person. And I thought the Hawks were big to step up and give me an opportunity to go further. I thought I played my role to the best of my abilities, and I just want to be here a long time.

“I don’t want to compete [for a contract] and have to go anywhere else but if I am not in the future plans then I guess that is what I will have to do.”

In the meantime, Crawford is doing what’s asked of him at camp. His back tightened up during practice Thursday and Hawks coaches offered to let him sit out sprints at the end of the session but Crawford finished.

He said he’s trying to separate the business from the basketball

“That’s the tough part,” he said. “I’m just taking it one day at a time, being supportive of my teammates. I have the utmost respect for Coach Drew and his staff, that’s for sure. I try to do as much as possible without my mind wandering too much. [But] at times, you can ‘overthink’ it instead of just going with the flow.”

MC

113 comments Add your comment

ryan

October 2nd, 2010
5:49 pm

Maybe we should trade for Billups or K . Mart .

Sherewshevsky

October 2nd, 2010
5:55 pm

This is not good. When you have an unhappy employee, why can’t you talk to him?

ILL-Logical

October 2nd, 2010
5:57 pm

And the plot thickens!

Najeh Davenpoop

October 2nd, 2010
6:00 pm

There is a surplus at his position and big holes at other positions. The Hawks can make do with Jordan and Mo backing up Joe at SG. If Jamal doesn’t want to be here, trade him for a SF who can challenge Marvin for his starting spot. Make it happen Rick Sund.

jason

October 2nd, 2010
6:06 pm

this is bad. Rick has created an unmotivated monster in jamal. Dude who makes highlights for the highlight factory might go from 18 to 9. way to go rick, you have just decreased our winning percentages wayyyyy down.

mike

October 2nd, 2010
6:12 pm

i saw rick sund on thurs night at a restaurant.. nice guy, shook my hand etc.. when he was leaving i shouted “sign jamal!” and he responded “he’s already signed” with a smile.. i see his stance (jamal is under contract) and i see jamal’s (pay me, i over-performed, give me a new contract).. i dont know how this will turn out honestly

Hawks73

October 2nd, 2010
6:18 pm

I don’t understand players that are thrilled to initially go to a “competing” ball club, then as soon as they don’t get the fat contract extension they are discontent and want to be traded. There was a reason for the two year deal and it was due to the uncertainty of how Crawford would fit in and perform for the Hawks. He clearly was a performer last year and lived up to expectations, but his contract was/is for two years PERIOD.

It’s understood with the CBA coming up for NBA players that the expectation for additional $$$ is questionable, but their has to be a more professional way of dealing with this situation. Why not honor the contract you signed Jamal, give a 150% effort this season, and be a PROFESSIONAL as opposed to a punk. I do realize that Crawford has been quite generous and supported exterior projects for the needy, but this only tarnishes his image…just a shame.

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
6:22 pm

Sund should at least acknowledge the request. He made it very clear that he wanted to do whatever possible to retain Joe. He’s made it crystal clear that he wants to extend Al. Why now does he have a tight lip when it comes to Jamal’s desire to stay?

south ga bird fan

October 2nd, 2010
6:28 pm

I like crawford but sund is right…shut up and play!

niremetal

October 2nd, 2010
6:29 pm

Jamal is an idiot. If he’s going to sulk because the Hawks aren’t stupid enough to give him a new contract right before the CBA expires (nevermind that no other team would give him one either), then trade his ass.

lewis

October 2nd, 2010
6:31 pm

sund needs to see if jc2 is decent before he gets rid of jamal

pedro el gitano

October 2nd, 2010
6:36 pm

AARON BROOKS SERIA UN CAMBIO A CONSIDERAR PERO PARA QUE QUERRIAMOS A KENION MARTIN???

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
6:46 pm

I guess I’m the minority here. I’m not mad that JC’s asking for an extension. He knows his value is up after his performance last year. He knows the CBA changes are upcoming. Why wouldn’t he at least ask? The comments about him being an idiot for sulking is crazy to me. That’s like if you asked your boss for a raise and your request was denied. Would you be happy about that? No matter what price tag you put on these players, at the end of the day they’re still human. You say trade him? Who does that punish? Jamal? Obviously the teams inquiring about Jamal weren’t offering anybody that would make Sund think twice. I’m beginning to believe Sund doesn’t know what the hell he’s doing.

truthspitter

October 2nd, 2010
7:07 pm

Trade Jamal to the Kings for Donte Greene and a 2nd rd pick. Donte Greene gives us a legit sized SF to backup Marvin for the future even when we don’t resign Mo next year or can’t trade his expiring. We get under the salary cap and the Kings stay under. We can then use Mo, Marvin, Bibby, and Zaza to make any other trades we may wish to make.

mike

October 2nd, 2010
7:07 pm

This guy jamal is crazy. He had a great year but he is historically a loser. He has never won anywhere he has been. And for him to have the nerve to be upset is crazy. The can score but so can many other players in the league. Extensions are given to franchise players who have proven themselves over a long period of time. The hawks did jamal a favor by letting him run wild and do what he does best which is score, but he has never been a playmaker and before last season he was irrelevant in the nba. Dont get me wrong he is one heck of an offensive talent but can easily be replaced for a lot cheaper. JC2!!!

drmaryb (*_*)

October 2nd, 2010
7:09 pm

Too Many Irons in the Fire!

The problem Jamal is encountering is the unprofessionalism
of this ASKG!

There are too many stooges in the executive offices and
Sund does NOT have the autonomy to make a unilateral
decision! Not one damned decision.

He prolly needs permission to change the toilet paper rolls
in the men’s room. They prefer Scott Tissue because you
get one-ply and 1,000 sheets per roll!

smdh

drmaryb (*_*)

October 2nd, 2010
7:18 pm

Disgruntled!

Aye AS killer G!
How’s all that chemistry working for you now?

All Sund has to do is tell the man’s Agent – yes or no.

End of speculation
End of discussion
End of story

That’s All Folks!
The End
- Looney Tunes -

Geez ….

J from the A

October 2nd, 2010
7:20 pm

Jamal likes playing for the Hawks. Jamal likes the community. Jamal is also looking for (and expecting) a little more stability. Nothing about this sounds “crazy” or anything approaching crazy.

After bouncing around a bit, he thought he finally found a home. Of course, he is disappointed (frustrated?) that he has not locked up an extension yet, especially considering the year he had last year.

Of course, I also understand the Hawks position, not wanting to offer him a pricey long-term contract. The Hawks are deep at the 2 and will need the cap space to (re)sign other higher priorities.

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
7:33 pm

Why is he whining so much? Just because he has to wait for a new contract doesn’t mean sund won’t sign him in the offseason. Man these ballplayers have been getting everything they’ve wanted & had ppl kissing their butts their whole lives smh. Grow up. If mal doesn’t get paid in ATL he’ll get paid elsewhere. I just think he wants 10mill a season thats why he’s acting like this.

It could also be that he’s afraid of geting injured andnot having security, but I think the 10mill he’s getting this year is enough security LOL.

ryan

October 2nd, 2010
7:41 pm

This is the end of the ASG Joe should have went elsewhere instead of signing with these retards .

Allofus

October 2nd, 2010
7:42 pm

Hawks are highly interested in Richard Delk the rookie in camp and would like to sign him should Jamal Crawford leave.

ryan

October 2nd, 2010
7:48 pm

Wow Richard Delk not an eye opener how will that make this team any better .

Sara

October 2nd, 2010
7:48 pm

I was hoping this wouldn’t happen, but it has. Yeah he’s being professional to the media, but if his demeanor is different around the team maybe the Hawks should probably listen to some teams who are making offers.

Gilk

October 2nd, 2010
7:52 pm

Jamal, pure logic and economics (new CBA is coming) dictate that Rick Sund CANNOT give you an extension. Count your blessings (every day!) that you have $10 Mil coming into your bank account for playing a boy’s game, play w/ 100% effort every night, keep your mouth shut and help the Hawks get to the Eastern Conf Finals! You do that and somebody (probably the Hawks) will break you off somethin’ proper in 2011 once the new CBA is in place!

In this economy, the fans don’t want to hear this whining and b____! Also do right by your teammates and stop sulking!

Najeh Davenpoop

October 2nd, 2010
7:53 pm

“I guess I’m the minority here. I’m not mad that JC’s asking for an extension. He knows his value is up after his performance last year. He knows the CBA changes are upcoming. Why wouldn’t he at least ask? The comments about him being an idiot for sulking is crazy to me. ”

I don’t think he’s an idiot either. He knows that if he doesn’t get a deal now, the deal he does get after the new CBA is signed will probably be lower, and he’s sulking and asking for a trade because that’s his only leverage. The Hawks also know this, so they are playing hardball. But all that said, Jamal’s days as a Hawk became numbered as soon as the Hawks drafted Jordan Crawford, and I’m sure Jamal is smart enough to realize this. The Hawks owe it not only to Jamal but also the other players in the locker room to solve this situation before the season starts so it doesn’t become a problem in the locker room.

Dub C

October 2nd, 2010
7:57 pm

I don’t have an issue with Jamal wanting an extension either. He understands that he’s in the last year of his contract and with a new CBA coming up, he may/will get less money next year. BUT, he is under contract and he has to play it out.

I also think Sund could handle the situation with more professionalism than to not address it at all, which is what it appears. I smell a trade coming, which wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing, expecially if we can get what we need in return.

RA

October 2nd, 2010
8:20 pm

I guess I just come from a different generation. When a man put his name to a piece of paper, it used to mean something, now days, not so much. But here’s the thing, if Crawford had come off a down year instead of a great one, would the Hawks lock him out because his numbers were down until he agreed to a pay cut, or to less years on his contract? Aside from that, 10 million dollars is a lot more money than a lot of hard working people will make in their entire lives. The money is going to be there, and I’m sorrry, if it’s 15 million a year instead of the 30 or 40 that players seem to want these days. But you paid (and very well) for playing a game that you love. If that’s not enough, maybe we don’t need that type of player here.

Astro Joe

October 2nd, 2010
8:23 pm

Jamal talks as if he had been witht he Hawks going back to the 13 win season. “Loyalty”? Dude, RandMo wore a Hawks uni longer. He is over-playing his hand. One terrific year does not generally translate into a long-term commitment… especially with a non-luxury tax team. Hawks did no better with Jamal (by measure of what many consider to be the ultimate measuring stick… the playoffs) than they did with Flip. Again, dude is over-playing his hand.

Tbird

October 2nd, 2010
8:34 pm

Love JC but this is asinine. Sund should be fired if he signed Crawford to an extension of what…3 years at 8 million per?? 10 million per?? With a guy already signed to a max contract at the same position AND a promising rookie that also plays the same position?? Do some of you have any business sense?? Again, Jamal you just made the playoffs for the first time in your career…you will be paid 10 million dollars to provide great offense and minimal defense yet again…at the end of that YOU get to decide where you want to play…Loyalty?? What BS…Be loyal to your signature and play

J from the A

October 2nd, 2010
8:45 pm

The only people “whining” here are the fans.

No one can blame a man for thinking he found a stable job in a place where he could be happy, only to be disappointed (frustrated?) when it looks like the other side won’t (cannot) make a commitment to him.

Daddilicious

October 2nd, 2010
8:53 pm

Give Jamal a contract before Al? No..
There are players who outplay their contracts (and want more $) and also players who underplay theirs (I dont think they will accept less $ for this). It mostly balances out for teams.
Shut up and play Jamal!

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
8:57 pm

All Sund has to do is tell the man’s Agent – yes or no.

Amen!!! That’s all I’ve been saying. Ugh!!! What’s so freakin hard about that??

Sund, stop being a d-bag!

drmaryb (*_*)

October 2nd, 2010
9:11 pm

dstdeelite

I know – right?

The Truth

October 2nd, 2010
9:12 pm

Sund is playing Russian roulette that will surely backfire. The biggest loser might be LD as he tries to coach the Hawks to the next level. If adapting to a new offense and defense isn’t enough for the Hawks to digest, the increase likelihood of a malcontent Jamal continues to loom. If a trade happens resulting in the loss of his 18 ppg while the Hawks are in the middle of a playoff run, then it really seems delusional to expect no negative impact on this team. Even trade rumors during the regular season may even strain Jamal focus. And if the Sund just let Jamal play-out his existing contract and let the aguish grow, then there will certainly be distraction induce from the media. So, one way or the other, there will be consequences from this dilemma.

Since Sund has already twice rejected offers for Jamal by inquiring teams that could have ended this drama, I’m beginning to wonder about his real intentions. Why would he handicap his new promising coach with this problem? LD certainly has enough on his plate. We do know that LD was not Sund preferred choice during the Hawks head coach search. His man was Dwane Casey. Not sure if this is playing a role but it smells awfully fishing.

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
9:14 pm

Having this type of distraction in an already fragile is a recipe for disaster.

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
9:15 pm

*locker room*

I.MUS WRITE

October 2nd, 2010
9:15 pm

Jamal is a good guy but the constant whining about his extension is sickening.

NCBravesFan

October 2nd, 2010
9:15 pm

One more reason why the whole NBA is becoming so unwatchable. I couldn’t care less about this, and wonder why Jamal feels the need to air this dirty laundry publicly … as if the fans care about his contract situation?

Trade his azz – we need to sign Al first anyway.

Clyde

October 2nd, 2010
9:16 pm

Dam the Hawks

Roll Tide!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Astro Joe

October 2nd, 2010
9:26 pm

I hope that Sund is refusing any fair trades for Jamal… Sekou reported the other day that Sund has received some calls from interested teams. But they could be offering fish-heads and rice for Jamal.

Astro Joe

October 2nd, 2010
9:28 pm

isn’t refusing fair trades…

dstdeelite

October 2nd, 2010
9:29 pm

Want to know Jamal keeps talking about? Because the media keeps asking about it.

JD

October 2nd, 2010
9:43 pm

This is simple. Jamal is an employee with a signed contract for a specific time period. When that contract is completed if the employer wishes to retain the services of the employee, it can offer the employee an new contract. In order to be offered a new contract, the employer should expected the employee to honor the existing contract and continue to perform in the manner he has in the past.

rusty

October 2nd, 2010
9:51 pm

the big problem with jc wanting an extention is because we gave jj the kitchen sink while he didnt play much better than jc, if better at all. they are direspecting jc , thats how he feels & its hard to blame him.

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
9:55 pm

Look at what Ethan has to say about Kevin Durant. Now thats a leader. Joe has some of these skills,but he’s clearly lacking in some areas (like acquiring new skills lol)

http://blogs.hoopshype.com/blogs/thomas/

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
9:58 pm

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
10:03 pm

JC isn’t JJ. If JJ doesn’t play, we LOOSE period. We have three anchors on this squad, players who are the foundation for our success. Horford, Smoove, and JJ. If we EVER loose JJ for extended time, everyone will see. His defense, scoring, and just his overall presence on the court. Jamal doesn’t have that. We lost to Toronto on a buzzer beater after Jamal dropped like 28 pts when joe was out. He’s a better than flip offinsevely, but flip had better D and finished at the rim better.

N.D.T.K.A.

October 2nd, 2010
10:15 pm

Sund not commenting on the “Jamal Situation” is a smart move by Sund and the Hawks.

First, not commenting on giving an extension to a player under contract is just good company policy and when you are trying to sign Al Horford to an extension as your #1 priority,you cannot take care of everybody, priorities have to be made. It is also good business sense not to offer an extension to an aging player who plays little to no defense when you are strong at that position(SG)finacially and personnel wise, as someone mentioned earlier.

Secondly, by not commenting or giving Jamal and his agent a definitive answer about the future. Sund in some respects is diffusing any attempt for this situation to be played out in the media. This could force other teams to offer nothing in return for Jamal when you could get something valuable for him at the trade deadline from a team looking to make a playoff push. It also allows LD to evaluate JC2 and decide if the Hawks will be ok without Jamal.

Jamal is getting paid for being a Hawk. In the end if he continues to gripe and moan, he is only going to mess up his next paycheck at his next destination. Sund knows this and that is why he is not commenting on this situation.

dap01

October 2nd, 2010
10:34 pm

Crawford is full of crap. He talks about loyalty in one sentence and talks about leaving the other. Trade him to the Clippers. He is not the person that I thought he was.

Better than that, sit his AZZ.

dap01

October 2nd, 2010
10:37 pm

Jamal, you are a cancer.

SteveW

October 2nd, 2010
10:39 pm

Jamal and Bibby for Williams, Nocioni, and Kapano from Philly. Why? Nocioni and Kapano are because of expiring contracts. And Lou Williams is a future star – per of 18.2 last year. Gives us 3 G’s 23 or younger – and Williams is cheaper – 5m per for the next 3 years. Philly may bite just to get rid of Nocioni and Kapano (now those are bad contracts) – and to help Jrue at PG. Bibby can mentor him, and there is some talk in NBA circles that having Lou there is hurting Jrue – he feels like if he makes a mistake, they just go back to Lou. I’m sure there are many other trades that can make the Hawks better – Trade machine says we have a +2 with this one.

Jae Evolution

October 2nd, 2010
10:40 pm

If we have to trade Jamal why not send him and Mo to NJ and we recieve Troy Murphy (New Sixth Man) and Damion James our original 1st round pick. Troy could bring scoring off the bench and Damion James is a perfect backup or he could push Marvin for minutes.

The funny thing is when I tried this on Trade Machine it projected the Hawks to lose 8 games and the Nets to gain 8 wins because of this, Jamal is good, but he isn’t THAT important, at least to me.

Thoughts?

JeJe

October 2nd, 2010
10:50 pm

Sund will offer Crawford a 1-year Veteran’s Minimum deal next August.

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
11:29 pm

Kobe Bryant says he’d beat Lebron James in a 1 on 1- “I’d do that in my sleep”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnDrm8YPSBE&feature=player_embedded

cp

October 2nd, 2010
11:30 pm

IF he is going to be a distraction then put him on the block. I understand why he wants a new contract but it would make no sense to give him one with the upcoming CBA. LD has a lot on his plate as it is he does not need a guy who is going to pout and whine all year.

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
11:41 pm

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
11:48 pm

http://www.slamonline.com/online/media/slam-tv/2010/10/for-old-times-sake-baron-davis/

Jamal & Bibby For Baron Davis. I’d Do it. He’d fit perfectly in this offense. We could even give them Mo to sweeten the deal. LOL

Hmmm

October 2nd, 2010
11:49 pm

I’m just kiddin BTW.

Grandad

October 3rd, 2010
1:07 am

Is it so hard for Sund to pick up the phone & talk to the man?
Rather yet, walk down to the gym and shake hands then act as if
you actualy are concerned one way or the other…..then talk.

What is so darned hard about communication?

Why the silent treatment?
Is it some sort of gamesmanship?

In the meanwhile LD & the Hawks are in the process of
“team building”.
You reckon Sund even understands that concept? [Team]

I’m not taking up for Jamal, [so much], as it seems to me
that the ball is in Sund’s court.
Sund’s strategy – “4 corners” delay, until time runs out.

tbhawksfan

October 3rd, 2010
3:08 am

Jamals’ own quotes show how full of crap he is. $10m and a chance to earn his next contract arn’t enough, he wants to get paid when he’s already getting paid. Sund has no card to play except to work a trade that favors the Hawks, barring that, Crawford needs to shut up and play.

Watch him go to another team and revert back to the player that he was before the Hawks put him in a position to play at 6th man level.

Barring a beneficial trade, a few DNPs might bring him back to reality.

Sleepy

October 3rd, 2010
3:21 am

Are some hawks fans this dumb ? Do they not know hat an extension is ? How is he not honoring his contract ? A guy who is in the last year of his deal who shows up for work and requests that his contract be EXTENDED is nowhere not honoring his contract.

Imo Sund probably promised the guy a future here and then after he got here was still open to it but after Marvin,Bibby,and Zaza bombed well now Jamal is the only chip he has to play and so now he is no longer open to an extension and is stalling .

I think if Sund goes to Jamals house and tells him that we want to rent him for a year and then auction him off so drop his opt out that jamal probably says no and takes his chances in last summers free agency .

I think thats what keeps getting forgotten here that a deal was made that required jamal giving up his opt out or he wouldve been a free agent last summer.

At this point Im not even advocating resigning because I feel we positioned ourselves for mediocrity once we resigned Joe however if people think that we wouldve come anywhere near 50 wins last year without him Jamal are kidding themselves and simply ignoring that Marvin,Bibby,Zaza were all horrible

As for Jamal will scare other teams away crowd well thats just crazy. He isnt asking out because he doesnt want to be here hes asking to stay and we are telling him no or better yet not saying anything . When you do that to the 6th man of the year the other teams in the league are looking at you funny not jamal.

Also one thing to consider if that if Sund resigns jamal now and then Al next summer well then the following summer Smoove will be eligible for an extension and will expect one early .

Grandad is right about the communication issue and I think it goes back to what he told jamal when he flew to his house to get him drop his player option so we would agree to the trade .

~~MAC-ToWN~~ (Area Code 478 Westside Macon)

October 3rd, 2010
4:37 am

eff Jamal Crawford and any other players that act like him. If you are a player on a team then your effort, attitude and enthusiasm should remain in high spirits….dont mop around because something isnt going your way. Try that in a job outside of professional sports and see how that works for ya slim.

if he acts like he doesnt want to be on the Hawks without that extension then ship his martian lookin a** somewhere else.

~~MAC-ToWN~~ (Area Code 478 Westside Macon)

October 3rd, 2010
4:40 am

if jamal didnt like making the playoffs for the first time in his career with the Hawks, then maybe he wants to go back to a 30-35 win team where he can be a starter and take a million shots a game.

ejh

October 3rd, 2010
4:52 am

I think the Hawks need to find a way to extend Jamal. If you think back to last season when Joe was not on his game which was often Jamal carried this team. Now you take him away and what options do you have when the offense becomes stagnant. You are going to need two good scoring options on the floor when you are matched up against Lebron and Wade. Not only that but people tend to forget when Jamal came here the first thing the hawks asked him when they traded for him was not to opt out of his contract when he got here, because he could have opted out after he got to Atlanta before the season started and he kept his word and did not opt out. So when he speaks of loyalty, he was loyal and now he expects the Hawks/Rick Sund to do the same, so I understand his sentiment. Once again management is lying to the fans and the players.

tbhawksfan

October 3rd, 2010
5:28 am

” take him away and what options do you have when the offense becomes stagnant ”

You’re agument becomes invalid when you care to add in the options of trading his mopeing, complaining self. We traded for him and we can trade him. Or he plays out his contract and we decide at the end of the season if he’s important to the future of the Hawks.

I don’t like Craws position or managements position but given the situation, the Hawks should either trade him in a trade that benefits the Hawks or expect him to play out his contract with professional application.

compatibility

October 3rd, 2010
7:23 am

do your job and stfu. unless you have something positive to say. or you might get your wish.

like a trade to NJ and back to irrelevance!

MsDee

October 3rd, 2010
8:17 am

@Grandad

Actually, Sund is not obligated to speak to Jamal. Before Jamal started speaking out into the media about wanting an extension or to be traded, he should have gone to Sund first! And I dont mean speaking to Sund via his agents but Jamal speaking to Sund face-to-face. If Jamal would have went about this in a more professional way, Sund would have broke it down to Jamal and would explained to him that if the more franchise player(AL Horford) would sign to a ‘reasonable’ contract, than both the franchise player and the rotational player(JC1) would have a deal..but if the franchise player feels he is worth more than a ‘reasonable’ contract, then AL wins and JC1 loses. If Jamal cant understand that, then he must not know much about business because as we all know, professional sports are nothing but BUSINESS!!

truthspitter

October 3rd, 2010
8:19 am

Rick Sund sucks just as bad or worse than Billy Knight.

Bad Moves:

Marvin’s contract amount
Bibby’s contract length
Zaza’s contract length

Good Moves
Josh Smith contract

TBD
The firing of Woody. The guy won with a team of players playing out of position and diminishing skills. Al out of position, Josh does not have ideal size for PF, and Bibby diminishing skills and they fire him. I just don’t see someone doing any better with this flawed roster.

Jamal’s contract: How Sund handles this means a lot. We could actually get a good young player for Jamal from a team that just needs a little fire power to take the next step. If we don’t get anything out of Jamal then I just don’t see the trade as a true success. Yes he won 6th man of the year and we won a couple of more games but we really are no better. We need to turn this into some other players who can help us take the next step.

Joe’s contract: We don’t know how this will work out but if Joe declines badly within the next 2 to 3 years this contract will totally destroy the Hawks payroll.

Al’s contract: Big move here. If Al makes it to the FA market and the bidding wars this team is either going into luxury tax or they will not be able to resign him.

Draft picks: Sund has not drafted a big yet and that is still arguably our biggest hole. The one SF he did draft he traded in Damion James and that is another big hole. He did draft a PG but that guy is not a true PG and did not play PG exclusively in college, Teague. JC2 is a small SG 6-4, which is about Flip’s height. Both guys that he has drafted in the 1st round have built in flaws. You really don’t go around looking for those type of players IMO. I hope they both work out but I have my doubts about both ever being good starters in the NBA.

In conclusion with all the flaws that Knight had he did select Josh and Al and get Joe in a trade. Yes he made mistakes with his draft picks of Sheldon, Marvin, Law, and to some extinct Chillz but he is no worse than Sund whose good moves pal in comparison to his bad moves also. Sund sucks and should be held accountable hopefully he can do something with the expiring contracts we have along with the trade exception, but I doubt it. When someone has been doing something for 50 years they become stuck in there ways and too stubborn for there own good, not to even mention the good of others.

dirtypimp

October 3rd, 2010
8:19 am

We need to trade Bibby, Jamal, Marvin, and our next 3 picks for Melo, Billups, Nene, and Denver’s next 3 second rounders. Win win for both teams. Denver gets two expiring contracts a servicable forward and 3 picks to rebuild with. Obviously this is all predicated on Melo agreeing to an extension, but this would be great for the Hawks, because we would have a top 10 type player in Melo, a veteran defensive minded point guard who can actually get to the bucket, and a true center. Team them up with JJ and Al that’s a starting five that can compete, on paper, with Lakers, Celtics, and Heat. Plus our bench would still feature Josh Smith Jeff Teague, Mo, and the Zsa Zsa.

Maurice

October 3rd, 2010
8:20 am

He’s not complaining! Sure he’s dissatisfied with not getting an EXTENSION but who doesn’t want job SECURITY! Like most people in this world he wants to finish where he think he belongs. It has everything to do with money and everything to do with his team and teammates. And seriously without Jamal last year, Atlanta would have been irrelevant. He deserves an extension and one should have been given to him at the end of the season. We do not have a surplus of talented players on our team that can take over the game. We have two. Jamal and Joe. They should not be on the court at the same time, which is the way they played last season. Extend his contract and we will contend with Miami year in and year out. Don’t and we become irrelevant again.

MsDee

October 3rd, 2010
8:20 am

Rick Sund is the BOSS, not the employee..he doesnt HAVE to say anything to Jamal. As long as Sund is doing what is required in his contract, than Sund doesnt owe Jamal nothing but a 10mil paycheck during this last season. If anything, Jamal is starting to fail on his end of the bargain by complaining and not giving his ALL so far in practices.

MsDee

October 3rd, 2010
8:24 am

Dont get me wrong, I LOVE JAMAL, but he should have gone about this in the RIGHT WAY but he didnt and he is suffering the consequences by not getting the answers or responses from Sund like he wanted.

b jones

October 3rd, 2010
11:09 am

Hallelujah, MsDee!

Jamal, why you gonna weep about earning 10 mil, then be a free agent? can’t you put a little of that cash away to tide you over during the lockout?

quit youre f n whinin and ball. if you keep cryin about it nobody will want your b*tcha$$.

i_am_soulstar

October 3rd, 2010
11:14 am

Jamal knows what he’s doing. He’s not stupid by any means. He knows they’re stacked at his position, he knows the CBA is coming up, and he knows Horford’s extension is the priority. He’s also very aware of a Jordan Crawford who plays a very similar 6th man style of basketball, and could likely be an inexpensive replacement.

From the moment they traded for Jordan Crawford, he knew his shot at an extension might be in trouble.

ant banks

October 3rd, 2010
11:19 am

I CAN UNDERSTAND JAMAL’S POSITION: “i be damned if i bus’ my azz to help the hawks get back to the playoffs goin’ 20 and 5 a night, only for them to let me go. i can not hustle as much, not give my best and still get paid the same amount.”

I CAN UNDERSTAND THE HAWK’S POSITION: “jamal is under contract. he is due to make 10mil this year.”

the hawks are in the worse position, in this case. WE NEED JAMAL. A HAPPY EMPLOYEE IS A GOOD EMPLOYEE.

ant banks

October 3rd, 2010
11:21 am

WHAT IS THE LEAST AMOUNT THAT WE CAN OFFER JAMAL AND NOT GO OVER THE CAP AND STILL BE ABLE TO RE-SIGN HORFORD?

JoJo the Godfather

October 3rd, 2010
11:27 am

As soon as Jamal threw out the “trade” word, then fans start to question his true desire to be here and start speculating that its more about money than anything else…He could have easily said this is where I want to be no matter what…That he’s willing to work with Sund on a fair deal, and his door is always open…That then puts all the pressure on Sund.

Mz. Hawkdafied

October 3rd, 2010
11:28 am

Crawford Prepared to 'Go Elsewhere'

October 3rd, 2010
11:31 am

[...] else but if I am not in the future plans then I guess that is what I will have to do.” Atlanta Hawks: Jamal Crawford prepared to ‘go elsewhere’ without extension | Atlanta Haw… The 2010-11 Minnesota Timberpuppies Reply With Quote + Reply to [...]

i_am_soulstar

October 3rd, 2010
11:43 am

But it’s not just the Hawks, other GMs like Daryl Morey with the Rockets have refused to give talented players an extension. Morey simply says there’s a new CBA on the horizon and it would make sense to wait and see rather than overpay his players.

Hawk n the Ham

October 3rd, 2010
11:47 am

It will only be a matter of time this season Jamal gets traded for a SF.

Brazil!

October 3rd, 2010
11:51 am

Jamal! Shut up and play. Sund, don’t give that one-dimensional player an extension. Trade his sorry behind for a SF. Bring Childress back!

rusty

October 3rd, 2010
11:54 am

no one is going to give us equal value in trade known our circumstance. any one who thinks jj is much better than jc dosent know basketball. jj cant drive hard to the basket & holds the ball way to long. he is what he is , a player who needs the ball in his hands to be effective. he dosn’t draw fouls or make things happen with the ball in his hands. he tries to take the game over in crutch time but tends to hog the ball. he is really not a clutch player. fans need to be real they dont accept the truth

Saint Richt

October 3rd, 2010
12:10 pm

Doesn’t this dude get it? He’s NOT going to get an extension in Atlanta. There’s this little issue of Al Horford and the fact that it’s the ASG…………doesn’t matter, mediocrity abounds! It’s the mid/late 90s all over again! HOORAY AVERAGE!

terrell

October 3rd, 2010
12:13 pm

Who was Jamal Crawford before he put on a Hawks uniform? Just your average “streaky” NBA sg, that played no D, and had never even tasted the Playoffs. I like you Jamal, but come on. An extension? Please! When was the last time a 6th man, not named Ginobli, got an extension? Play out your contract? Looks like JC2 was an excellent pick by Sund. Put him on the market Sund. See what we can get for him. Sf, Center maybe? Dont want a bad apple in LD’s basket.

jhan

October 3rd, 2010
12:32 pm

Saint Richt – bet your namesake would like to have an average football team right now!!

Hawks Fan In New Orleans

October 3rd, 2010
12:43 pm

Lauryn Hill said it best, “miscommunication leads to complications.” LOST ONES.

There are a lot of unknowns but if JC1 did not attempt to speak to Sund directly and not through the media spin, then there is an error on his part.
Likewise, if Sund made certain verbal promises like, “do great here and you have a future in Atlanta,” but then after he wins 6th man of the year, he drafts a young 2 guard with same skillsets and even name ‘Crawford’ and not offer JC1 an extension – that’s an egregious error on his part.”
Sund possibly lied through the skin of his teeth to get him here. The least he could do is tell him the real deal concerning his future here. No employer should treat his standout employees like that-creating unwarranted disdain in the locker room.

Wally Walker

October 3rd, 2010
12:49 pm

Brazil,you are correct! Jamal should appreciate the opportunity afforded by the Hawks. Not only is he getting 10 mil this year, but a real opportunity to perform on a meaningful team. His performance last year will assure him; a multi year contract from a contender as oppose to a garbage team. This year will be his last year with the Hawks, but still a real chance to possibly contend for a title as well as improve his stock. Now, he is respected as a solid player(SMOY)and a true hired gun. Offense will always be a premium in the league with added leadership(he’s 30)any contending team would desire his services.
Next as crazy as it may sound, the Hawks should trade Marvin and the second round pick received in the JChill pick to Phoenix for JChillz. He is far better suited for the new offense design as well as a better defender and rebounder. Next, trade Mo for anybody’s second round pick as a salary dump. Then sign, Damien Wilkins as the back up SF. Now with almost 3mil saved from the Marvin and MO trades, the Hawks could sign Dampier to a 1 year deal. Moreover with Marvin and Jamal’s contracts gone, next year the signing of Al to a long term deal is made easier!

Ga Hawks!

drmaryb (*_*)

October 3rd, 2010
12:57 pm

Nuts and Bolts!

I don’t hear Al complaining about the final year of his contract,
nor the Big help he got in the post this off-season.

I don’t hear Josh complaining that Al is trying top take his
4 spot either.

Players just Play!

drmaryb (*_*)

October 3rd, 2010
1:09 pm

Oh Yeah … Al and Josh are Bolts.

drmaryb (*_*)

October 3rd, 2010
1:10 pm

Oh Yeah … Al and Josh are Bolts.

Bolts lock onto Nuts!

vava74

October 3rd, 2010
1:16 pm

Major mistake by Jamal.

He is under contract and playing for a playoff bound team. He should shut up and play. No one likes malcontents.

He will not get a better contract under the new CBA, even on a doormat team with cap room, no one will pay him what he believe he is worth.

He should understand that Al is the Hawks priority and do his best to prove that he can aid a team to be successful.

Fundamentals

October 3rd, 2010
1:42 pm

Jamal won’t get an extension till Horford is signed. If he truly wants to be here long term he’ll #1 come out a team player and start playing DEFENSE! Once he proves he’s committed to that he’ll gain more value for himself as a Hawk and/or for another team. As it stands his skill set is great for a bench/role player on a contender, but not as a starter. If he truly wants to stay here he’ll need to talk pay cut as his $10 million is not worth what we’re going to get as we go forward. We need better team D and fewer ISO plays in LD’s system. Can Jamal fit. Definitely. Can he take less $$ to stay…that’s up to Jamal. Will he do it? We’ll see.

Play out your deal, play solid D, prove that part of your team game is sound and that you’re willing and we won’t be able to keep you when the offers come in.

Whatever happened to holding up your $10 million dollar side of the bargain before you ask for more. Shut up and play. Play well and you’ll get paid.

Grandad

October 3rd, 2010
1:43 pm

MsDee -&- everyone else:

With all due respect;
do yawl realize how difficult it is to acquire talent?
It’s Sund’s job to acquire talent. I would also think
that it’s also his job to keep it once he gets it.
-Now-
We don’t know what was said between Sund, Jamal, or his agent
when he came here. Therein lies the mystery.

Is Jamal a crybaby?
Is Sund a liar and a jerk?

Bottom line, If we lose Jamal & fail to get an adequate return
on his talent then it don’t matter who wins the testosterone
contest,[between he and Sund] the Hawks team loses!

Fundamentals

October 3rd, 2010
1:44 pm

Amen to players just play. Al seems to be handling this well. I hope his situation gets resolved where both sides are happy.

dap01

October 3rd, 2010
2:13 pm

Jamal is not dumb by opening his mouth but he is very selfish. Ten million dollars for a one dimensional player.

Selfish.

i_am_soulstar

October 3rd, 2010
2:17 pm

I feel ya Grandad,

Quality players don’t come easy. Jamal’s easiest the best thing to happen to the Hawks’ bench in the last decade.

I think Sund is playing poker, I just hope he doesn’t use the same approach as he did with Childress. It’s all about how you handle it Rick. Just like Childress, I’m sure the man just wants to be shown a little respect for his efforts.

i_am_soulstar

October 3rd, 2010
2:21 pm

Grandad

October 3rd, 2010
3:22 pm

i_am_soulstar

I’m glad you mentioned Childress.
@ this point we got nothing in return
just as we got no return for Tibor Pleiss.
Sund at this point is and has not maximized our roster.
Does Sund see his job as providing LD with the best possible
players in order to win. Or, does he only want to be a capologist.

MsDee

October 3rd, 2010
3:53 pm

@Grandad,

I love Jamal as well and feel he is a Great addition off the bench but he needs to just play ball!! The whole NBA world knows its a new CBA next season…good luck at getting what u are worth next season..oh and Jamal offense is replaceable! Now if he had great defense, well then diffierent subjust.

dstdeelite

October 3rd, 2010
4:00 pm

Al knows where he stands with the organization. Why would he be griping about an extension? He knows they Hawks want him shored up for the long run. Apples and oranges

MsDee

October 3rd, 2010
4:42 pm

dstdeelite,

Exactly cause AL is a franchise player, AN ALL STAR..he suppose to know his team wants him..he is deserving of it..Jamal is just a1st time 6th man of the year after how many years in the league?

Hawks Fan In New Orleans

October 3rd, 2010
6:42 pm

Drmaryb
Are you saying Smoove and Horf are nut huggers?
I agree though JC1 needs to leave it on the court. He is thinking too much about the future and what will be. He strikes me as an intelligent guy and maybe he has outsmarted himself negotiating through the press.

northcyde

October 3rd, 2010
8:36 pm

@ Hawks Fan in N.O. . . . Bolts go through nuts. Nuts secure a structure. You can actually hold something in place with a bolt by itself. It might not be secure, but you can hold something together. But a nut by itself is useless without a bolt. That’s why Jamal is a nut, and not a bolt.

The good drmaryb described Al and Josh as bolts, because the structure that is the Hawks would collapse without them ( unless they’re replaced with another bolt ). LOL . . I understand what you were trying to do, with the sexually suggestive post, but I had to clean it up a little.

@ rusty . . . LOL . . I hate to inform you of this, but the major flaw in Jamal’s game is that he DOESN’T drive to the hole nearly as much as he should. He has the talent and skill to do it, but he’d rather take a 20 – 25 foot jumper. And that’s why he’s been one of the NBA’s most inconsistent, but talented players in league history.

Percentage wise, Jamal takes WAY MORE jumpers from 16 feet and out than JJ. JJ may not go all the way to the hole, but he will at least try to get into the paint and score via the floater ( a shot that he makes 50% of the time ). But Jamal looks long jumper first and more often. LOL . . your 11:54 am post describes Jamal perfectly, not JJ.

@ everybody else . . . Just let this all play out, before you all cross Jamal off your Christmas lists. Jamal is simply approaching this like a business. Yeah, it probably wasn’t a good idea to voice his feelings on this, because the majority of fans won’t understand where he’s coming from. But as long as his perfomance on the court isn’t affected by this, it’s a non-issue to me.

northcyde

October 3rd, 2010
8:42 pm

I should’ve said . . .”Bolts go through a structure and through a nut. Nuts tighten or secure a structure, only when they latch onto ( or hug ) a bolt.”

That’s why a structure can be held in place with a bolt, even if the structure isn’t secure. But a nut can’t do jack, unless it “hugs” onto a bolt to tighten the structure.

So is that Jamal’s new nickname?

“Nut” Crawford?

Fans are telling “Nut” to shut up and play.

Hawks Fan In New Orleans

October 3rd, 2010
9:14 pm

ROFL thanks for the clarification northcyde and no disrespect drmaryb – looks like JC1 has a new nickname then.

[...] But Crawford’s stance might be shifting a bit. At media day Monday he was careful to avoid talking about the possibility of leaving the Hawks. Now, with GM Rick Sund still not offering an extension and also resisting trade inquiries, Crawford sounds more urgent about the issue. Atlanta Journal Constitution [...]

[...] that his contractual situation is weighing heavily on his mind, and tells the AJC that he’s prepared to play for another team should the Hawks extend him: “At media day Monday he was careful to avoid talking about the [...]

A Tale of Two Hawks « The Kobe Beef

October 4th, 2010
2:10 pm

[...] of the stance that the front office has taken, Crawford has said that he will “go elsewhere” if nothing is done to keep him in Atlanta. Going elsewhere, however, is easier said than done since [...]

Vic

October 4th, 2010
3:26 pm

Crawford was perfect under the last coach because he could create his own shot and play iso ball. Drew says next season will be different. If Crawford can flourish under the “new” system, he’ll be rewrded for it, either here or somewhere else. Crawford has generally been a good player on bad teams, but he’s always averaged double digits.

[...] Jamal. The latest with Jamal is him accepting the unlikeliness of signing a contract extension and he is prepared to ‘go elsewhere’ next summer. Coming off of his 6th Player of the Year Award, Jamal would be another Hawk highly [...]

Jaykeia

October 4th, 2010
6:43 pm

Hawks need to “pay the man”! Their front office discuss me…we could have such a good team if the Hawks would have handled their business over the last couple of years…instead we’re stuck with a so-so team

rcjur

October 6th, 2010
12:18 pm

Hawks will need Jamal’s offense this season to even touch the playoffs and with the way Sund is handling this thing, it will cost you the playoffs!! Jamal doesn’t have to play for a contract. He is one of your best players on your team. Sign him up for 2 years and call it a good move and stop being a stupid owner.