Atlanta Hawks: Hawks 98, Heat 89
J.J. and Hawks got by LeBron's Heat. (Curtis Compton/ ccompton@ajc.com)
–This was nothing like the Magic game for the Hawks. They were ready from the jump, defended hard until the end and didn’t blink when the Heat threatened to open up a lead after halftime.
– Both teams went at each other hard and had their starters on the floor to finish. “It didn’t feel like a preseason game at all,” Jamal said. “As the preseason winds down, we’re just trying to get into a rhythm we can carry into the regular season and they are doing the same.”
– “Two teams came out and really made a statement,” J.J. said. “It was fun.”
– Props to J.J. for 27 points, six rebounds, six assists and just one turnover. He’s quietly been the most consistent guy in the preseason. You can see him start to figure out where he can find space in the motion offense. There are still some isos but, for the most part, he picks the right time to do his thing.
– “The Hawks have a little more movement offensively,” Udonis Haslem said. “Last year they were more of a one-on-one team. They still have versatile big players. They’re going to be just as good as last year, most likely better.”
– That remains to be seen but would anyone have said that about the Hawks just three days ago?
– The Heat didn’t have D-Wade and this game showed the potential problems when any of the Super Friends are out against good teams. LeBron went for 38 points on 11 of 22 shooting and 13 of 19 free throws; his nine teammates combined for for 51 points on 10 of 57 shooting and 11 of 15 free throws.
– “I’ve seen improvement in the defense the last couple games,” L.D. said. “Tonight we did a good job collectively on them. One thing I wanted them to focus on was the transition defense. We let LeBron get away a couple times but for the most part we did a good job with that.”
– Having LeBron means the Heat are never really overmatched. I can’t even say Marvin did a bad job against him. LeBron is just so big, fast, strong and skilled. That’s no revelation, I know, but the guy provides reminders each time you see him.
– “When LeBron comes to town you know he’s going to score 30,” Marvin said. “That’s what he does. It’s the other guys you’ve got to cut off.”
– 11 rebounds and nine points points on 4 of 8 shooting for Marvin. That plus good D gets it done.
– Smoove was really strong in the post against Bosh. He set the tone early by blocking his dunk attempt and stripping him of the ball a couple other times. He never let Bosh get comfortable.
– Josh also showed growth within a 5-minute span of the third quarter. Joey Crawford gave him a tech. “All I said was, ‘Hey Joey,” Smoove said, and J.J. backed up his story.
– Later, Josh was called for a foul on LeBron and calmed himself down, with his palms facing the floor. A few moments later he stole James Jones’ pass and soared in for a dunk that gave the Hawks their first lead of the second half.
– Bibby said he was putting it on himself to get guys easier shots. He ended up with five assists, made two big shots late in the game and showed some energy on D. His issues are well known but the guy is a pro.
– Teague looked like he needs more time to get back in rhythm.
– Jamal seemed less interested in defense than crossing over whomever the Heat put in front of him. His moves fired up the crowd, though. And he ended up with six free-throw attempts: “I’m just trying to get my timing back.”
– Al looked out of sorts again. He couldn’t get his jump shot to fall and too often settled for jump hooks far away from the basket. He still made four free throws, collected nine boards and three steals and did a good job challenging Bosh at the rim.
– Twin missed on a chance to send LeBron to the ground with a foul, instead just touching him as he went by. He made amends a few minutes later with a hard foul on Bosh that prevented a dunk.
– Josh Powell was active again. He’s not shy about shooting the ball or mixing it up.
– With all of the regulars available and the regular season approaching, L.D. said he’s starting to set his rotation . Tonight that meant 22 minutes for Powell and the first DNP-CD for JC2.
– “Jordan will have his time for sure,” Jamal said. “He’s a really, really good player. But I think right now we are settling down into what we will do in the regular season.”
– Good effort for the Hawks, especially defensively, but they know the next step is to keep it up.
– “I knew this was a big game and I never have to worry about us in big games,” J.J. said. “It’s ther other games that are not so big that I worry about [the energy].”
– “That’s how you become a great team is to do it night in and night out regardless of what the offense is like,” Al said.
– “We knew it would be like that,” Josh said. “We stepped up and played with passion and with our hearts out. That’s how we’ve got to play all the time. I think this is the toughest division in the NBA and wins are going to be precious. This showed that we can play with them and be a force to be reckoned with but we’ve got to do with with everybody.”
– I’m out, Hawks fans.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
134 comments Add your comment
Rufus1
October 22nd, 2010
12:07 am
1st
Rufus1
October 22nd, 2010
12:15 am
Koolaide anyone…..
It is time for some of you to start drinking the Koolaide. The team that played tonight is definately a 50 win team. The Offense, Defense and Pace are all better.
MsDee
October 22nd, 2010
12:19 am
MC,
So the only reason JC2 didnt get no burn tonight was because of what again????????
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
12:19 am
“With all of the regulars available and the regular season approaching, L.D. said he’s starting to set his rotation . Tonight that meant 22 minutes for Powell and the first DNP-CD for JC2.”
If Jordan is not going to crack the regular season rotation, they should send him to D-League and let him get some playing time. Sitting on the bench does him no good. Ask Teague.
Real Talk
October 22nd, 2010
12:21 am
That was a good performance from the Hawks 2night even though it would have been a TOTALLY different outcome had D-Wade played but Joe earned his check 2night. My questions is Y they couldn’t play Orlando like that? and Can they play consistent like this especially Joe?
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
12:22 am
Wow Teague looked horrendous tonight. As did ZaZa
FIRE SUND
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
12:23 am
“11 rebounds and nine points points on 4 of 8 shooting for Marvin. That plus good D gets it done.”
11 boards is nice. 4/8 shooting is nice. 9 points is no big deal — the Hawks don’t need him to be a scorer. The 3 pointer towards the end of the game was big, and if he can consistently hit that shot it would work wonders for this team. Defensively he had his moments, and of course his assignment wasn’t easy, but I thought Joe did a better job on LeBron than Marvin did. Marvin needs to be a lock down defender. Not a decent or good defender, but a lock down defender who can draw LeBron, Durant, Pierce, Granger, and whoever else and make them work for every bucket.
Real Talk
October 22nd, 2010
12:23 am
That was a good performance from the Hawks 2night even though it would have been a TOTALLY different outcome had D-Wade played but Joe earned his check 2night. My questions are why they couldn’t play Orlando like that? and Can they play consistent like this especially Joe?
Swatguy
October 22nd, 2010
12:30 am
Has Pape Sy practiced yet?
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
October 22nd, 2010
12:36 am
@ Najeh, ask not only Teague, but Salim and Acie also.
Hmmm
October 22nd, 2010
12:42 am
Niceness. I got a little nervous there in the 2nd qtr and at the beginning of the 3rd (I was like “PUT JC2 in, dunk-gate pt.2!”) but everything looked crisp tonight for the most part.
smh @Bibby, The old dog just wont lay down. He just wont let me win. MC was right though, he’s a pro.
The captains showed up, Marvin did not….
I like what I saw from the offense tonight. Guys were dedicated to making it work. Reggie Miller seemed to enjoy talking about it.
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
12:44 am
1) Teague needs to do a hell of a lot more than he did tonight
2) Horford needs to drain that midrange shot all the time
3) Smoove needs to post up. STOP TAKING JUMPERS.
4) Marvin needs to keep attacking. Dude posterized Bosh
Do those 4 things and this team will be fine.
We will never compete or come close to competing vs. Orlando, but we can compete vs. everyone else, as we showed last year
Grandad
October 22nd, 2010
12:56 am
JeJe
What game were you watching?
Zaza played with energy, hustle, kept balls alive battling on the def boards,
and should have gone to the line another time or two.
Jeff provided speed & quickness, saw the floor well and even though he is
still not shooting well he was able to collapse the def for some kickouts.
I also thought he did a good job of spotting open teammates.
I have openly been critical of Bibby.
Tonight, I must agree with MC, he showed that he still has a role for this team.
I was very impressed.
Josh Powell looks to be a sleeper pick-up.
mike
October 22nd, 2010
12:59 am
@jeje, shut up you sound dumb he sprained his ankle. He is clearly hurt still but he is trying to tough it out and play through it. He has to get his rhythm back. U know nothing about basketball
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
1:07 am
”
Zaza played with energy, hustle, kept balls alive battling on the def boards,
and should have gone to the line another time or two.
Jeff provided speed & quickness, saw the floor well and even though he is
still not shooting well he was able to collapse the def for some kickouts.
I also thought he did a good job of spotting open teammates.
I have openly been critical of Bibby.
Tonight, I must agree with MC, he showed that he still has a role for this team.
I was very impressed.
Josh Powell looks to be a sleeper pick-up.”
“@jeje, shut up you sound dumb he sprained his ankle. He is clearly hurt still but he is trying to tough it out and play through it. He has to get his rhythm back. U know nothing about basketball”
LOL. Teague was garbage tonight. Get real. His jumper at the end showed that he still can’t take a jumpshot. Bibby’s shots were all contested, which makes me think he probably will be streaky again this year. I was at the game, and I can tell you Teague is still incredibly timid. WTF is Van Exel doing?
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
1:07 am
Miami is probably the only team in this league with worse point guards than us.
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
1:10 am
Another thing this team DOESN’T do is box out.
Same story different year — SSDY
Players just depend on athleticism and let seasoned vets like Haslem outsmart them.
BOX OUT YOUR MAN. IT’S NOT THAT HARD
truthspitter
October 22nd, 2010
1:11 am
Atleast they tried to play defense tonite and the offense looked good tonite. Let’s see what happens 2morrow night on the road, lets see what happens when teams are playing for Wins come next week. Finally, Teague is not ready to be a starter as I have been saying all summer since I saw how sorry he was in summer league for someone that people are calling to start. Frankly put, not just Teague but the entire bench is garbage. Jamal has to be traded for some depth.
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
1:16 am
Bench really does suck.
Mo is useless
Teague is useless as of now
Powell is okay
Collins is okay
ZaZa is off and on
Craw is a stud
——-
Now look at Boston’s bench:
Shaq
Jermaine
Big Baby
Delonte
Wafer
Nate
Yeah………
Rufus1
October 22nd, 2010
1:18 am
What no one is talking about….
This HEAT team even with Wade gone is probably as good as the Cavs team last year that won 60 games.
PS The Heat won’ t win the title for one reason….NO INTERIOR DEFENSE OR REBOUNDING and WADE can’t help with that. Of the 47pts the Hawks had in the 1st half, 26pts were in the paint.
Sorry Lebron no title this year………):
Grandad
October 22nd, 2010
1:22 am
Al’s shot will come around.
He has proven in the past what he can [and will] do.
My take on JC2 is he is a volume shooter which is not a need. (right now)
Jamal’s playing time was curious to me.
It caused me to wonder.
Was LD sending him a message? [defense]
Was LD holding him accountable? [defense]
Does LD consider him part of the core? [trade]?
Two more observations:
(1) 1st half – I was ready to give up on Marv.
[stats proved that my eyes were lying to me]
(2) Mo was horrible.
*** Last Thought – the offense was a thing of beauty ***
Chicago '85
October 22nd, 2010
1:36 am
Pre-season. No D-wade. Lets see what the Hawks do when the games really counts.
MsDee
October 22nd, 2010
1:50 am
I love what we accomplished tonight and dont give me that ,”Wade didnt play” crap. Heck, for that matter, we actually got the toughest player out of the “BigThree”. Now if Wade would have played and LeBron out, than folks MAY have a reason to say something but with LeBron being LeBron with 38pts,,WE STILL WON WITH GREAT OFFENSE AND DEFENSE!!
Hawks Fan In New Orleans
October 22nd, 2010
1:52 am
I will reserve my season record projection for after tonight’s game. Great early road test before opening day in Charlotte.
Clyde
October 22nd, 2010
2:00 am
Real teams play their best basketball in March and April. *yawns*
The Truth
October 22nd, 2010
2:09 am
Kudos to the Hawks on a nice win; did anyone notice LD lobbying for Jamal on TNT? “He is very valuable to our team”. Perhaps he was sending a message to Sund. When you coupled that with Jamal comments about Jordon:
“Jordan will have his time for sure,” Jamal said. “He’s a really, really good player. But I think right now we are settling down into what we will do in the regular season.”
From these comments, I wouldn’t bet on Jamal being traded at the deadline. If the plan was to groom Jordon for a role in the rotation to help transition away from Jamal, then to DNP Jordon with the rookie treatment would not be a way of doing it. With so much pressure on the Hawks to show continuity from last year winning season, I don’t see how Sund could pull the trigger on anything during midseason without major disruptions given Jamal key role and PT on the team. Unless it’s a blockbuster trade which is highly, I don’t see it happening. This script looks more like a replay of Flip Murray empty-promise from Sund then a BK Speedy trade that got us Bibby during midseason.
Big Ray
October 22nd, 2010
2:36 am
The truth ,
I wouldn’t bet anything in the opposite direction, either. You never know what a GM is going to do, regardless of what a coach says. Larry Drew also said that adding Shaq would really be something. Is Shaq here?
Big Ray
October 22nd, 2010
2:45 am
You gotta love it.
Northcyde is right. What is with some fans??
We lose games in the preseason and people wail that the season is hopeless, Larry Drew is screwing things up, and the Hawks won’t make the playoffs, or whatever. The whole team is garbage, the bench sucks, blah blah blah.
The team turns it around and wins a big game against a big opponent and the first thing out of some of the same people’s mouths is “it’s just a preseason game” and every other excuse they can think of.
Some will be saying the exact same thing during the regular season.
News flash: the only teams PLAYING in March and April are the ones who take care of business in October, November, December, January, February, etc….
Yes, it’s a preseason game. No, it doesn’t count in the standings of the regular season. But you just saw that this team is capable of playing a new way, a different way, a better way.
If the bench sucks, then how in the devil did we win a game that saw 10 different guys play double figure minutes? Powell was in the game longer than Josh Smith. Even Joe played less than usual (35 minutes). Fact is, they held serve long enough for us to rest guys. Now are they gonna do this on a night to night basis? I don’t know. We’ll see.
Big Ray
October 22nd, 2010
2:49 am
Now look at Boston’s bench:
Shaq
Jermaine
Big Baby
Delonte
Wafer
Nate
Congrats to them. I guess the fact that we swept them in the regular season last year prompted them to upgrade, huh?
Better hope:
Shaq – doesn’t hurt his toe, or get grumpy about playing time
Jermaine – gets two brand new knees for Christmas
Delonte – doesn’t get caught trying to screw somebody else’s mom, or get caught with 15 different firearms strapped to his motorcyle in the middle of town at 2 a.m.
Nate – can defend as well as Tony Allen….not!
Big Baby – doesn’t get in trouble again
Wafer – can play defense
ICECOLD
October 22nd, 2010
2:52 am
i saw some things in this team that i think really need to change…
1. zaza needs to be traded, he doesnt fit in this offense or this defense any more… his minutes is played better by etan thomas or twin
2. Jeff teague needs to work on that jump shot asap… and he is so fast, sometimes a little bit too fast..
3. josh smith has to stop shooting jump shots… he can shoot 3 a game.. but not 7 like he did tonight….
the good
1. joe johnson is showing that he is worth the contract he signed…
2. marvin did ok tonight,.. dunkin, shooting and rebounding…
3. offense was beautiful.. it was some iso… but you can tell that its going to work when they get it down pack..
4. jeff teague was showing signs of brilliants… he is so fast and have a mean cross over.. he is going to be good on a athletic team like the hawks
excuse the bad typing.. its late
cp
October 22nd, 2010
3:26 am
Teague has only played two games. Dude is coming off a ankle sprain. He put up 20 and 6 in his first game and looked fine. The overreactions on this board is hilarious at times. The Hawks win its only preseason, The Hawks lose its trade everybody and fire everybody. Player has a good game then its only preseason. Player doesnt put up big numbers then its the player is garbage and not ready. Absolutely hilarious
lewis
October 22nd, 2010
3:52 am
verdict isn’t out on teague yet…i personally thought he looked good given the circumstances
MsDee
October 22nd, 2010
5:47 am
Teague would have had probably a 14pts/7assists game tonight if he would have played all pre-seasons games up to this point but guess what? He didnt cause he has been hurt with an ankle sprang u guys so of course you are not going to see Teague put on an all-star performance now even though, IMO, he did in the 1st and ONLY OTHER pre-season game he has played thus far. Yes, Bibby was great tonight but dont be fooled, he was playing up against Arroyo, a PG slower than him. Heck, Bibby even got a block on him so you know the Heat are in trouble if Bibby can stay in front your PG. Teague WILL be our next starter PG, just watch and see!
JustAThought
October 22nd, 2010
6:37 am
So who’s gonna drink the “drank”????????
lou
October 22nd, 2010
6:45 am
Still pre season
Samuel
October 22nd, 2010
6:58 am
Ray,
Where did you get that from? Shaq on the bench? He’s started every game so far this year.
Samuel
October 22nd, 2010
6:59 am
Guess it was JeJe who originally posted it.
JROLL1
October 22nd, 2010
7:41 am
I WENT TO THE GAME….NEW MOTION OFFENSE? 4 ASSISTS AT HALF TIME…STILL WAY TOO MUCH ISO JOE FOR ME. I REALLY WANTED TO SEE JC2 PLAY. THANKS LD! NICE JUMPERS BY BIBBY DOWN THE STRETCH. AL MISSED AND TOOK WAY TOO MANY JUMPERS.
~~MAC-ToWN~~ (Area Code 478 Westside Macon)
October 22nd, 2010
8:06 am
From what you guys have saw in the pre-season, do you think L.D.’s strategies will benefit the team more than Woodson’s? Has there been any real displaying that make you lean one way or the other?
O'Brien
October 22nd, 2010
8:07 am
1) JJ looked good tonight. And he didnt have to work as hard as he usually does for his shots.
2) Marvin looked ok. But I agree with Najeh. If his defense can improve from “ok” to “very good”, that would do wonders for this team. And for offense, just make the open shots.
3) Al rushed his shots, so he just needs to slow down.
4) I saw Josh take 2 or 3 juumpers in the first half (although he was open). Josh, go to the basket.
5) As for Teague, he is fast, but still rusty. We talked a little about it on the previous blog. When he is in the game with Jamal, Jamal dominates the ball, which I think takes away from Teague’s game, because Teague is not a shooter.
With Bibby and Jamal in the game, Jamal can play point more, and find Bibby for good looks.
I think Teague should get most of his minutes with JJ, and let Bibby get most of his with Jamal.
6) Make your FTs
Section 303
October 22nd, 2010
8:16 am
Walking into the arena last night, I knew the Hawks would play well. There was a buzz in the arena and the team seems to always respond to that (when Orlando is not in the building, anyways).
I love watching Jamal Crawford handle the ball. Just fun to watch. As someone who spent their playing days (high school and 1 year of JUCO) struggling to dribble, Crawford’s handles just amaze me. Love watching that guy play.
Did anyone see Sportscenter’s highlights last night. Literally all LeBron James. He was the only player they showed. Gee…how hard is ESPN trying to rebuild that guy’s image?! The network will not rest until that guy is everyone’s favorite player.
Bosh is very average. By far, most overpaid free agent this summer.
jason
October 22nd, 2010
8:18 am
i think we have a chance against the heat next season.
Hawk n the Ham
October 22nd, 2010
8:19 am
I swear, by reading some of these comments, some people are still so jaded from the Woodson way of doing things. Wake up folks, new coach. Player rotation was GREAT tonight. Just because Jordan didn’t see time tonight, doesn’t mean he is not going to get his turn. The problem for Jordan was Bibby, Joe, and Jamal were playing well last night. It’s hard to take some of those guys out long enough to insert the rookie. Plus, Teague had to get his burn.
And for anyone knocking Teague last night, the boy was rusty, but come on! He has been missing in practice and game time due to injury. Give him time to knock the rust off. He had a beautiful drive in the lane that broke down the defense, to dish it out to a wide open Joe for a made 3 pointer. Isn’t that what the team needs out of him? Well, he did it! Stop whining LOL.
It is nice to see defenses are not going to lock us down by doubling on Iso Joe this season. Joe’s work has gotten easier, and still scored 30 points. Good job to LD!
The Hawks offense really needed to have a good game like this, so they will buy into LD’s offense. This was very pivotal for the team. Now, they can start trusting themselves within the offense and make things happen. A few months down the road, who knows how clean and crisp they will be executing this offense? Might be a treat for us fans to watch. I can’t wait for opening night.
Go Hawks
darrell starks
October 22nd, 2010
8:20 am
LD is a smart coach from what i see so far, his bench rotation is awesome unlike woody, one thing i would like for LD 2 do is concentrate more on defense and understand that will be the hawks bread and butter from and offensive prospective into translating easy basket from fast break.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!
Section 303
October 22nd, 2010
8:23 am
O’Brien, I thought Teague’s most impressive play happened in the 3rd quarter (at least, I think it was the 3rd). At the Hawks basket, he came up with the ball on the baseline. Through traffic, from the baseline, he managed to get the ball to Joe Johnson for a 3, which Joe hit. Nice pass. Thought it showed good court awareness on the part of Teague.
Bibby is playing well right now. I do not think Teague it is a lock that Teague is going to take most of the minutes from Bibby. It’s going to take sometime for him to beat Bibby out.
Section 303
October 22nd, 2010
8:24 am
err….I do not think it is a lock Teague is going to take most of the minutes from Bibby. I don’t know what kind of mental fart I was having when I typed the 2nd paragraph up there.
darrell starks
October 22nd, 2010
8:27 am
LD ROTATION IS THIS.
STARTER BIBBY, JOE, MARVIN, JOSH, HORFORD,
BENCH TEAGUE, JAMAL, MOE, POWEL, ZAZA
LD SHOULD STARTE TEAGUE 2 CREATE EASY BASKET SPECIALLY ON THE ROAD.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!
Hmmm
October 22nd, 2010
8:30 am
http://dimemag.com/2010/10/joe-johnson-hands-lebron-primetime-loss/
At least we dont hve to listen to themedia kiss miamis butt for one night lol. ESPN’s highlights were pathetic! Nothing but Lebron. SERIOUSLY!
darrell starks
October 22nd, 2010
8:34 am
I no bibby played well last night but the fast break is not there when he is in the game, it’s time 2 starte teague with the starter and let him make his mistake on the court he will only get better with time.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!
Art Vandelay
October 22nd, 2010
8:49 am
Michael:
Would it be asking too much for you to write like an actual journalist and use the players’ names, at least the first time you mention them? Who the F is “Twin?” Do any casual fans know who “JC2″ or “L.D.” are without having to research the roster and coaching staff?
i_am_soulstar
October 22nd, 2010
8:56 am
This breakdown of minutes is pretty awesome if it lasts through the regular season.
Breakout season for Josh Powell anyone????????????????????????????
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
9:09 am
Bench Warming!
It was good for Jordan to sit and wàtch and learn last night.
We all know what he can do. Just like Doc Rivers sat the shoot first PG Nate for 38 games to learn the TEAM OFFENSE and DEFENSIVE requirements.
He got his burn in the play-offs and it paid dividends and a new contract for Nate. Just be patient Jordan, your time will come!
Ramon
October 22nd, 2010
9:10 am
O’Brien, Josh made a couple of those jumpers. And still shot 50% for the game.
oldmike
October 22nd, 2010
9:19 am
Don’t know if any of you watched SportsCenter this AM. Seems there was only one player on one team in the building – and it was – guess who? Right. The oft maligned LBJ. They didn’t even post the Hawks scoring leaders. Just LBJ and Bosh’s stats. So, all the teams save for the ones with what ESPN deems to be marquee players just don’t matter. I am QUICKLY getting over ESPN!!!!!!!
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
9:20 am
Ding …
Not so casual observer
October 22nd, 2010
9:23 am
How many games into the season before Powell starts at the 3?
Sports Illustrated has the take on Marvin – not a 3 or a 4. The upper body of a 3 and the lower body of a 4 as I have posted before.
Teague will be fine, Mo will contribute and ZaZa and Collins will fit in situational areas. Thomas will be a contributor as well.
Miami is a long way from being a “super team”.
HoosierHawk
October 22nd, 2010
9:25 am
Bibby, although slow and a big question mark to me, was suprisingly scrappy on D. He had a few strips that turned into easy buckets. And he can still stroke it. I think Teague really has to earn the starting job. Horford’s shot was so bunk the first half and Josh settled for some long 2’s circa 2008. But other than that i was impressd. Contrary to what those who only looked at the box score said, Zaza played well. He did lots of little things on D. And Marvin, despite my skepticism towards him, did make a big 3 to seal the game. GO HAWKS
Rufus1
October 22nd, 2010
9:27 am
Section 303
I think the most impressive thing Teague did was LOCK DOWN EDDIE HOUSE…he could not get a shot off when Teague was on him. Did you see the defensive rotation when Teague refuse to leave House and let Chalmer shot the open 3….. LD I love it.
11 man rotation
Defensive intensity
Ball movement
I will say it again…IT IS TIME FOR SOME OF YOU TO START DRINKING THE LD KOOLAIDE!!!!!
We are talking about a 53 win team that looked better last knight, than they did all last year(except maybe the Utah game)
J from the A
October 22nd, 2010
9:28 am
I am not sure, but I think Josh & the mid-range jumpers are a bit of “pre-season experimenting.”
I, too, cringe every time I see Josh (half-)open at 17-18ft. Before he even takes the shot, I am like, “Noooo, don’t do it!”
But at least a couple of the 17 footers looked liked they came off of set plays. If Josh can start hitting the mid-range jumper, that would really open up opportunities for him. His man would have to start playing him close anytime he caught the ball within 17 feet, as the opposing teams would be forced to respect the mid-range shot. And as his man is forced to play Josh a bit closer around the perimeter, two beautiful things will start happening: (1) Josh will be able to exploit bigger, slower PF’s and blow right by them. (2) The lane will be a little less congested, clearing the way for Josh to make some nice assist to Al or a cutting Joe, Marvin, Teague, Mo, Jamal, etc.
However, if this experiment doesn’t look like it is panning out, say by the end of November, I want to see those jumpers cut down to no more than 2 or 3 a game … and even those better come only when there is little to no choice in the matter.
But whatever Josh does, please, please NO THREE’s!!!
Manny
October 22nd, 2010
9:29 am
I can care less about ESPN because they are trying to fix their image regarding LBJ and “The Decision” debacle. They have to somehow justify that stupid thing they did.
But here’s what I saw: I saw the Motion Offense and I think I will like it later on. It is definitely a work in progress because it requires the open man to make the open shot. That’s fine, but what I don’t like is that there’s hesitation on the boards. That means that it’s not clicking yet. The boards needs to be attacked and it allows the defense to recover when there’s hesitation.
Also, even though Bibby looked really good and that he can spot up really well; Teague’s speed and slashing abilities makes the motion offense work better. The problem is that he is so green. He needs more floor time. But if and when Teague gets better and able to make better decisions, this offense will sing. Teague’s maturity, to me, is what excites me the most about this year.
Astro Joe
October 22nd, 2010
9:31 am
Big confidence builder for the Hawks. Let’s hope we stay healthy after tonight’s game.. I vote for playing Pape Sy 45 minutes tonight… oops, never mind.
OB, I said as much last year, Jamal is a bad backcourt partner for Teague. He needs to play with someone like Joe or Mo. But the idea of playing Bibby and Jamal together is frightening when thinking about defense. Unless you have “expendable” bigs down low to get in foul trouble when the opposing guards constantly penetrate into the paint.
J from the A
October 22nd, 2010
9:44 am
If I am not mistaken, the Hawks best lineup last year (as far as plus-minus goes) was Bibby, Jamal, Joe, Josh, and Al. So, whatever defense deficiencies this line up has, they more than make up for it with offensive output.
And, I think last night was a sign that Bibby still has a role. He is a good court general, sees the floor well, and can hit the open jumpers. However, it is no secret that he gets exposed bad against some of the better PGs in the league.
Ken Strickland
October 22nd, 2010
9:59 am
As you can plainly see real Hawk fans, the NEGATIVE MINDED, GLASS HALF EMPTY TROLLS have come out in full force. Last night the Hawks brought a BIG DOSE OF REALITY to them, and made it harder for them to maintain their fantasy about the Heat being a dominant force and a certainty to become this yrs NBA champions.
Yes, this was a PRESEASON gm, but in every respect this gm was played exactly the way a regular season gm between these 2 teams would have been played. Both teams definitely went all out to win.
Najeh-Sometimes I don’t understand your reasoning. I know you’ve questioned JTeague’s readiness and ability to run this team, as well as make known your preference for MBibby as the starting PG. You’ve used Bibby’s ability to protect the ball and subsequent low turnover rate as your reason. But, why would you expect Marvin to be a LOCK DOWN DEFENDER, not just a good or average defender, yet not ever say a single word about any expectations you might have about Bibby being more than an OPEN DOOR DEFENDER? It’s Bibby who’s been the teams biggest DEF liability, not Marvin, followed closely by JaCrawford.
With multiple options on OFF(ISO, motion OFF, pick and roll, high low post, fastbreak), the Hawks will be much better equipped to win on the road. With Miami not likely to be as dominant or as successful as Cleveland was last yr, and with Boston becoming even slower, older and more injury prone that the team that got swept by the Hawks last yr, I don’t see the Hawks finishing lower than 3rd in the East.
Even with the addition of CBoozer, and the Bulls turning over half their roster, they won’t be any more successful against the Hawks than they were last yr. The Bucks are too frail, and won’t be able to take advantage of the stupidity, rigidity, predictability, and lack of adjustments, like they did in last yrs 7gm 1st rd playoff series. While they get MRedd and ABogot back, the Hawks handled them during regular season last yr when both players played, including resigned SG JSalmons, with 2 of the 3gms being played in Milwaukee.
The only team standing in the way of the Hawks getting to the Eastern Conference Finals is the Orlando Magic. One other observation about Bibby. With him knowing he’d be accountable for defending his man and having to watch out for and fight over picks, rather than relaxing and expecting to switch on every pick like last yr, he appeared to be more active and effective on DEF last night than he was all of last season.
The Hawks didn’t make a big splash in FA, or any significant changes to their roster, player wise. However, by hiring LDrew as the Hawks new HC, along with the positive chances he’s installed, they certainly made the change that will make them the most improved team in the East, with the possible exception of Miami. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Section 303
October 22nd, 2010
10:05 am
Rufus1, that is a good point. Eddie House was perfect from 3, if I’m not mistaken. Teague played good D. But, I thnk that D is one of this strenghs. Teague is quick and seems to have a good feel. You don’t see him get caught up in screens very often.
Also, on Teague, he seemed very aggressive with the ball last night. He attacked the rim several times last night. He is not afraid to mix it up.
ILL-Logical
October 22nd, 2010
10:09 am
Good Preseason win and on national television. wonder when the marketing campaign will begin? And who will it feature-to sell the most tickeyts and mechandise?
Wabe
October 22nd, 2010
10:29 am
Big Ray
October 22nd, 2010
2:49 am
Better hope:
Shaq – doesn’t hurt his toe, or get grumpy about playing time
Jermaine – gets two brand new knees for Christmas
Delonte – doesn’t get caught trying to screw somebody else’s mom, or get caught with 15 different firearms strapped to his motorcyle in the middle of town at 2 a.m.
Nate – can defend as well as Tony Allen….not!
Big Baby – doesn’t get in trouble again
Wafer – can play defense
LMAO @ at Delonte.
Wabe
October 22nd, 2010
10:37 am
Few comments on the game itself…
People are quick to call Teague’s performance “scub-ish”. He might’ve not been scoring – but I thought he showed some good court vision. He’s a good complement to what we have out of Bibby. Quick – penetration – upgrade at the PG DEFENSIVELY.
You might’ve not been too thrilled by his performance, but, he’s capable of playing a role – and a pretty good asset for a team featuring gaurds like Joe and Jamal who can step behind the arc and knock down open looks that you can credit to Teague’s penetration.
As for LD, I like what I see. I’m excited. I said yesterday, the guy is cool, calm, and collected. Doesn’t seem to get flustered and take anything out on his players. Keeps his composure and actually looks like he knows how to attack both offensively and defensively. Someone mentioned his in-game interviews, and it’s a relief to have a guy who actually seems to know that there’s something more to basketball than just his guys energy level. He sprinkled in the energy note – but also noted other advantageous points the Hawks need to keep attacking (IE – Teague/Jamal quickness in the backcourt).
I’m siked.
Not expecting a championship, but I definitely think we’re better off this season.
Bench play seems suspect though. Seems like a repeat to what we saw last season. Jamal and “the other guys”.
Wabe
October 22nd, 2010
10:37 am
meant to say “scrub-ish”
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
10:39 am
Manny T?
Is that you? I hope so. IDK Manny, but he said:
“I can care less about ESPN because they are trying to fix their image regarding LBJ and “The Decision” debacle. They have to somehow justify that stupid thing they did.”
ANY legitmate sporst network would have been derelict in their duty not to air The Decision. In their defense, ESPN aired it, got tremendous Neilson Ratings, sold commercial slots and did what they had to do.
If LeBron & Team wants to make an azz of themselves – so be it!
ESPN mad no mistakes there. Didn’t the whole world watch?
Giving the people what they want is just great business.
Ramon
October 22nd, 2010
10:48 am
Drmaryb, say what you want, but Lebron made raised a lot of money by doing his decision.
Everyone says Lebron should’ve called Dan Gilbert first, before the show. But if he called him, it would’ve been leaked on every channel and website of the decision he was going to make. So business wise it was pretty smart not to call. Gilbert should be happy Lebron made Cleveland as valuable as he did while he was there.
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
11:04 am
Ramon
Very true.
However, I was only speaking of ESPN’s role in that.
I don’t believe LeBron was paid to air that?
If he was, so be it. But, it was more about LeBron than anything else.
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
11:10 am
Cleveand’s feelings being hurt is their problem.
The man honored his contract admirably and was free to do whatever.
He owes Cleveland nothing – that’s business and it’s a hard knock life!
How many athletes have learned they were traded on a news stream or while listening to the radio while driving their cars. Didn’t Dominique get traded without knowing up front?
The knife cuts both ways!
I have no problem with LeBron not telling Cleveland he was about to DIP!
If he wasn’t the 2X MVP? Cleveland wouldn’t have told him if he was beong traded to the Clippers either.
O'Brien
October 22nd, 2010
11:19 am
AJ,
Good point. Bibby and Jamal defensively will be much worse than Teague and Jamal. However, I think Bibby and Jamal will be better offensively than Teague and Jamal, so LD will have to find the tradeoff.
Last night was the only game I’ve seen this pre-season, but I thought Bibby played well overall, which I was good, because from looking at boxscores and other comments, it looked like he sucked the other games.
However, lets keep in mind that Miami has Carlos Arroyo and Mario Chalmers at PG. I think Teague will be needed more when we play the faster PGs, so hopefully Teague can learn to move his feet and play aggressive/smart defense without fouling.
Will LD be willing to start Teague against some teams (N.O., Phoenix, Chicago, Washington etc), and then start Bibby against some teams?
Ramon
October 22nd, 2010
11:19 am
Agreed.
I.MUS WRITE
October 22nd, 2010
11:26 am
Observations 101
Jeff Teague*** needs more time- His shot is still MIA, while he provides good D and pushes the ball, Slow footed zbibby still gives us a better chance of winning. I see them splitting time this year.
ZaZa – Sigh… I want to like the guy but he is garbage IMO -It wont happen but I would look for a trade.
Smoove- Still taking those 3’s, STOP IT !!!!!!
Jamal C- looks like he is not intrested in playing this year -It looks like he isnt giving full effort because he is pissed about his contract with the CBA situation right around the corner. C’mon son be a professional and quit pouting like a child
Ball movement was good last night-
Mo Evans- *&$%$%#()#)
Powell is EHHHH….other than the occasional jumper what does he do besides commit fouls-Zaza is better, thats sad
I would like to see us make this trade- or one similar to this
JC1/Mo/ ZaZA for R Fernanzez / Pryzbilla
I.MUS WRITE
October 22nd, 2010
11:28 am
Fernandez
A-Run
October 22nd, 2010
11:44 am
Mr. Cunningham,
Would you please give the team a quick report card on the Pre-Season here below?? Thanks for all the hard work you do covering this team!
Offense: ?
Defense: ?
Coaching: ?
Chemistry: ?
Front Office: ?
My take………..
Offense : C+ (The scheme looks good and you can see things are slowly improving but not quite fluid enough and team scoring too low, so far)
Defense: C- (For the most part, individual effort is there. Team effort is not quite there. Still too many lapses in transition and opposing players getting to the rim without being diverted)
Coaching: B (Like all of these critiques, it is still way to early to get a true evaluation but I like what I see. Coach Drew has a “no nonsense” view on defense and will no let his players hear anything other than responsibility, cuplibility, and effort. It is my hope that the players’ do not get tired of his voice before they “truly buy in” to his schemes)
Chemistry: C (Is it just me or is it REALLY HARD to tell whether or not this team has “cliques” in the locker room or are they one big happy family and totally cool with each other? Al Horford’s comments regarding ISO JOE and lack of defensive effort is concerning, at times)
Front Office: D (It sure would be nice to see us go ahead and lock up Al Horford immediately and take care of what ails Jamal Crawford, trade or otherwise. Can anyone say legit Center? Anyone? Anyone? Get off your hands please
)
3Klub
October 22nd, 2010
11:47 am
I have to admit that I liked what I saw last night. The new system is MUCH easier to watch, and with the ball movement and more guys getting shots, you see more activity on the other end of the floor, ie Marvin with 11 boards. I know Teague has missed a lot of time, but I need to see more from him. As it stands Bibby and JC1 might suck up all the minutes at PG and JC2 may have more value than Teague off the bench with his scoring. Especially in those 3rd qtrs when the offense lags.
N-Trigue
October 22nd, 2010
12:12 pm
What game were you all watching? I was satisfied with everyone’s play and coaching. Good timeouts were called he switched the offense from motion to isos at different times during the game. Teague being that this was his first gm back from the ankle sprain did good his quickness was on display this is gonna be a totally different team when Teague is running point with the starters e showed me his ability to gt around screens on defense which is where Bibby struggles. He had a good game and as the preseason winds down I expect for him to be more in sync with the other guys and the offense. Zaza looked good doing all the little things I like the role Drew has planned for him. And I like the fact that the Hawks seemed to be a little tuffer than previous years especially downlow in the paint I saw them send a couple of Heat players to the ground when they tried to come inside. Cant wait for the season to start this is gonna be a really season watch I predict 55 wins or better!
Westurd
October 22nd, 2010
12:19 pm
Who is Twin?
Westurd
October 22nd, 2010
12:20 pm
By the way MC, great collection of quotes…..now can you see if you can find me some tickets on the cheap. Thanks
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
12:20 pm
Obrien
As usual, nice breakdown of how to use all the guards.
Your plan puts everyone in the best situations to be successful.
I.MUS WRITE
Re: Observations 101,
I enjoyed your feedback. Give it some more time you will be at ease. Like Al said, “he will go to war with what he’s got.”
I’ve never seen Josh Powell play before joining the Hawks. I sense he can help the team more when things calm down.. Coach tightened the rotation last night to evaluate some things he didn’t know yet, IMO and to get some film to study.
I also, noticed Coach talked to the players like Men. Very calm and supportive.
One frame, I saw Coach rest his hand on Jamal’s chest and make contact while instructing him in that 4th Quarter. Did anyone else notice that too?
The overall facial expressions, body language and control that Coach has.
Conversely, Dwight stated that he and SVG have had bumps due to Dwights aloofness -vs- SVG Intensity. And, that he and SVG really sat down and talked about SVG needing to relax a little and have some fun too.
-paraphrased- from The NBATV Magic Training Camp interview with Dwight.
Can’t have Sautee getting me. rof-lol -smiles-
Aye Sautee! What up Man? You keeping us quoters and liars in line?
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
12:27 pm
If you don’t who Twin is by now?
Then google it.
Apparently you don’t know ISH about The Hawks roster if you don’t know who anyone is. It’s not rocket science, but do me a favor, log off and do some research. All your silly questions have been asked and answered under your other 17 user I’d’s.
Geez! Whining kids and yapping dogs are annoying!
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
12:31 pm
* Coach rested his hand on Jamal’s chest and made EYE contact …
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
12:37 pm
Twin is Jason Collins. I figured it out the first time using process of elimination.
Stuart
October 22nd, 2010
12:43 pm
Hawks looked great last night! The game was very encouraging! The motion offense looked great–not much standing around as was the case last year. Plus, Joe Johnson seems like he can definitely be a formidable threat in this offense. He is still able to produce in the points/rebounds/assist departments. With the offense, there also weren’t many shots having to be jacked up as the shot clock was going off–players were getting wide open shots on the floor and even down low around the basket. The pick-and-rolls, screens, and give-and-goes looked excellent. Another plus was the effort on the defensive end. Again, for the most part, it looked pretty solid. There was great effort all around–especially by Josh Smith, which really changed the game.
After seeing the game, I am convinced that Bibby still needs to start at point. I saw a few great things from Teague but Bibby still seems to control the ball well (without any turnovers) and that is a huge plus when running a motion offense like the Hawks are. Plus Bibby seemed to work well in the offense, hitting down shots when he needed to. Teague will still get his minutes though–more than he did last year. Bibby also looked a little better defensively, which was also encouraging, but he will probably still be exploited big time when facing the young, athletic guards like Rondo and Jennings, so that’s where Teague will especially need to come into play.
Anyway, looks pretty good! Especially considering how the shooting was awful (especially Horford) and some of the finishes around the basket for Zaza and Powell weren’t put down quickly like they should, and Josh Smith took a few shots that he probably shouldn’t have—-but all this is small stuff and can be fixed… and the Hawks still won on top of this! Plus, most of the Heat runs seemed to be when LeBron and a few of their starters were out on the floor against our bench. When our starters were out there, we were on top of it! The +/- on LeBron was -17 and all of the Miami starters were in the negative while all the Hawks starters were on the positive side. So, very encouraging! Still have to maintain the intensity for 82+ games though…so, a lot of work to be done (plus figuring out Orlando…).
AT WORK AKA NUNNA!!
October 22nd, 2010
12:44 pm
give it up jeje..wats with the teague bashing..
i hate to bring up his name,but i think u are woody.
Stuart
October 22nd, 2010
12:45 pm
Also would have been nice to see JC2…
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
12:46 pm
“Drmaryb, say what you want, but Lebron made raised a lot of money by doing his decision. ”
Come on now. A guy worth $100 million raised $500,000 by doing the decision on TV for the Boys and Girls Club. If you want to paint that like some huge act of charity, that’s the equivalent of someone making $50,000 a year “raising” $25 for charity. He could have just as easily given that money out of his pocket without exposing himself as a self-centered douchebag on national television.
There’s nothing wrong with the choice to leave Cleveland and go to Miami; that’s his right and he doesn’t owe any explanation to the Cavaliers organization. But someone who wasn’t so oblivious to the people around him would have made an effort to not do the fans of the city of Cleveland the way he did. If you are going to leave, there’s a right way and a wrong way of doing it, and LeBron chose pretty much the most wrong way possible.
northcyde
October 22nd, 2010
12:53 pm
LOL . . the range of emotions on these blogs are crazy.
While the motion within the offense was good, we did only shoot 42% FG. But the defense, especially in the 2nd half, was stellar. For the game, Miami shot 37% FG. That’s the type of defensive effort we need out of this team more often than not.
As I’ve said all summer, I’m not worried much about the starters, it’s the bench I’m worried about. As others have said, the Teague – Jamal backcourt may not be ideal for Teague, because Jamal still tends to dominate the ball. But if Teague isn’t ready to lead, we don’t have any choice but to let Bibby start. The jury is definitely out on Teague in that regard, but LD will give him a shot to prove himself.
For this offense to work, guys must knock down their open shots. I personally can’t remember the last time that both Bibby and Marvin shot 50% FG in a game. In the 2nd half of the season last year, both guys missed a TON of open looks. This year, it’s more important than ever for them to make wide open jumpers.
The ease that JJ scored the basketball within the offense is probably the most noticeable thing about last night. And his shot chart proved that. He was 5 – 12 FG on his jumpers and 6 – 11 FG on shots in the paint. And some of those shots in the paint came from him catching the ball in the 15 – 18 ft area, and immediately driving into the paint to shoot the ball within 10 feet.
AT WORK
October 22nd, 2010
12:55 pm
is it me or did jc1 audition for other teams as a point last nite?
he was on display for himself most of the game..
speaking of cliques,his buddy buddy is zsa zsa..he made some nice passes to him in the low post..
i hope we can work something out with jc1 but if not..we need a defensive center..he don’t even have to score more than 6 a game just on rebounds alone..
just guard the paint,block shots,get rebounds..then go home..thats all he has to do..
another jc1 issue i have is that he is always bringing up the ball when teague is in,and if he noticed,all he has to do is get open and teague will get him the ball..
gotta go make some calls..and yes,i am a telemarketer,and i will be calling upon your job,or your business,lol..
1
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
12:57 pm
“Najeh-Sometimes I don’t understand your reasoning. I know you’ve questioned JTeague’s readiness and ability to run this team, as well as make known your preference for MBibby as the starting PG. You’ve used Bibby’s ability to protect the ball and subsequent low turnover rate as your reason. ”
Uh… no I haven’t. I’ve been one of the biggest Teague supporters on this blog since day one, and I’ve repeatedly characterized Bibby’s contract as one of the worst on the roster. Don’t know where you’re getting this from.
“But, why would you expect Marvin to be a LOCK DOWN DEFENDER, not just a good or average defender, yet not ever say a single word about any expectations you might have about Bibby being more than an OPEN DOOR DEFENDER? It’s Bibby who’s been the teams biggest DEF liability, not Marvin, followed closely by JaCrawford. ”
Bibby is 32 years old and his physical skills are rapidly declining. Expecting him to be anything but a defensive liability at this point in his career is wishful thinking — which is a big part of the reason I’ve always been such a big supporter of increasing Teague’s minutes. Players generally don’t get better at age 32, and they certainly don’t improve in lateral quickness at age 32.
Marvin, on the other hand, is a young guy who has been on the Hawks for five years without ever carving out a defined role. Yes, a big part of this is Woody’s fault, but Woody can really only be blamed for Marvin’s offensive inconsistency; nothing ever prevented Marvin from carving out a role as a lock down defender. He has all the physical tools to do so — long wingspan, good lateral quickness, and height — it’s really just about focusing and developing the mental toughness necessary for that role.
And anyway, I am saying that in the context of the team’s needs and the fact that Marvin doesn’t have that defined role. The Hawks have more than enough scorers and more than enough athleticism to run the break; therefore, it’s not essential for Marvin to excel at scoring or finishing on the break (although it certainly wouldn’t hurt). What the Hawks don’t have is a physical defensive presence on the wing who can take some of the defensive burden off of Joe Johnson. That is the area where Marvin can most contribute to the team, and that’s what he needs to be working on.
Gilley
October 22nd, 2010
12:58 pm
I feel a whole lot better about the Hawks after this win….but I just don’t understand how Jordan Crawford gets a DNP. Sounds like a Woody type thing to do. This was a preseason game. Give the man some burn!!!!!
northcyde
October 22nd, 2010
1:15 pm
And I still say that LD just doesn’t like something about Jordan Crawford. The bench shot 7 – 23 FG last night. We can use anybody we can get, when it comes to bench scoring.
I agree with Najeh. If Jordan is not projected to be in the rotation, send him to the D-League for a month or two, so that he can develop more as a NBA level scorer/playmaker.
We’re overloaded at guard anyway, so if he isn’t going to play, send him somewhere in which he can enhance that “dog” in him as a scorer.
STK
October 22nd, 2010
1:16 pm
This game reinforced my theory that Chris Bosh is highly overrated. He will take a beatdown from any tough forward in the league. So really it’s only the Big Two, Bosh and a bunch of stiffs. This team will surprise everyone by not being as good as hyped.
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
1:20 pm
The problem with Bibby is EVERY shot he takes is contested. Yes he made a lot of nice jumpers last night, but ALL contested. He CANNOT get in the lane, create space, or move quickly. This is a HUGE problem for this team.
Jamal was incredible last night. I was hoping we’d iso him on James Jones or whoever and let him drop 45
Manny
October 22nd, 2010
1:20 pm
Hi. I’m Manny, not MannyT. I normally write on the Falcons boards.
And ESPN DID get flack because they did get good Nielsen ratings, for about 10 minutes. But experts would tell you that the decision to air that mess was a mistake. ESPN used poor judgment and it hurt it’s brand. Not that it has great competition, but people thought it was laughable and a waste of time. (And Lebron has the money to just cut the Boys and Girls clubs a $500k check. It was unnecessary.) But I’m not going to continue to harp over the success and/or failures of marketing Lebron’s decision to go and play with the Heat.
As far as the Hawks are concerned, the Motion Offense, and Jeff Teague potential role in it, should give some hope to the fans. It is certainly a work in progress. It didn’t look good all the time. People missed some open shots. Players were forcing the pass at times. Sometimes, people looked lost. That’s fine.
But what I did see was an offense that will not only work well for Teague and Joe Johnson. I saw that this offense may give a spark for Marvin Williams. He looked pretty good yesterday, too. He seems to thrive in this type of offense.
And if they improve and make the playoffs again; even if we get swept in the 2nd round, I would take that. Larry Drew looks like he is making progress so far.
J.J.M.
October 22nd, 2010
1:21 pm
why does espn show all lebron higlights but dont show none from the winning team? why couldnt they show bosg getting dunked on by marvin or josh smith steal/dunk? NBA where predictable happens
Big D
October 22nd, 2010
1:32 pm
I no bibby played well last night but the fast break is not there when he is in the game, it’s time 2 starte teague with the starter and let him make his mistake on the court he will only get better with time.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!
True Hawks Fan
October 22nd, 2010
1:33 pm
I co-sign with Northcyde and Big Ray. Hawks fans are so fickle. Yesterday, I saw “Fire LD” and “Bring back Woodson” comments. I will live and die with this team. Nothing will ever be as bad as 13 wins.
ASHCAN.
October 22nd, 2010
1:34 pm
Yep good game from the hawks lets see if they can play like this every game and don’t have mental laps like the pryor years.I know this is on PRE-SEASON but good effort.I don’t know my fellow bloggers who commented on joe having good games this PRE-SEASON,with the type of money he’s making 124mil im especting 40 points a game 15 assist 10 rebounds 5 steals and 20 game winners at the buzzer.Joe you brushed off the fans,along with those numbers you should also serve the fans beverages in the front row every home game.I think thats about it.
Big D
October 22nd, 2010
1:34 pm
Will LD be willing to start Teague against some teams (N.O., Phoenix, Chicago, Washington etc), and then start Bibby against some teams?
jtshoopsblog
October 22nd, 2010
1:35 pm
I`m telling u. Heat is all Hype. ATL just proved it.
Big D
October 22nd, 2010
1:43 pm
The Teague-Jamal dynamic: This is a blog onto itself. Here of some comments from bloggers. Let’s continue to weigh in on this critical dynamic.
Which guard combination should the Hawks utilize most or does it vary from opponent to opponent?
Jamal C- looks like he is not interested in playing this year -It looks like he isnt giving full effort because he is pissed about his contract with the CBA situation right around the corner. C’mon son be a professional and quit pouting like a child
As for Teague, he is fast, but still rusty. We talked a little about it on the previous blog. When he is in the game with Jamal, Jamal dominates the ball, which I think takes away from Teague’s game, because Teague is not a shooter.
Jamal is a bad backcourt partner for Teague. He needs to play with someone like Joe or Mo. But the idea of playing Bibby and Jamal together is frightening when thinking about defense. Unless you have “expendable” bigs down low to get in foul trouble when the opposing guards constantly penetrate into the paint.
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
1:57 pm
My take on why Jordan Crawford did not play last night – for what its worth…
The Hawks are playing a back-to-back games and Teague is still nursing his ankle. I am guessing that Jordan will play 40+ minutes tonight. I believe Twin will also get more floor time. Somebody said that the Hawks should treat the Charlotte game as a throwaway so that the Hawks can enter the season next week good and healthy. I’m guessing this will be how LD treats the game.
In other words, although there was some talk from LD about narrowing the rotation, I don’t think there is any way Jordan is relegated to a consistent DNP-Coach’s Decision status.
If Jordan has continued to take unwise shots or played undisciplined defense in practice, then I can also see that LD may have used last night’s DNP as a “learning opportunity”.
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
2:03 pm
Big D, just for grins…
What if the Hawks went with Teague, Jamal, Jordan, JJ as shooters with Al in the paint to pick up the scraps. Who do you guard? They could be used like the hockey teams do when they pull the goalie off the ice to score quickly at the end of a game.
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
2:11 pm
I don’t know what has been happening in practice, but I can’t believe that Zaza has earned so much more playing time than Collins. Zaza looked awful missing lay-ups, fumbling passes, and punching at rebounds. He looks intimidated when he tries to shoot. Its almost like he expects it to get blocked so he just throws the ball in the direction of the hoop rather than shooting the ball. And his hands are just bad. I remember when I played football in high school. Before practice the wide receivers would toss bricks back and forth to each other to develop softer hands. Maybe this might work for Zaza, otherwise he is hopeless.
ASHCAN.
October 22nd, 2010
2:13 pm
Rufus1, i guess james and company gotta proove you wrong too.You could be right.I don’t even like the heat but im pulling for them because of all the hatred pouring in from james decision to leave cleveland.I will never understand why peeps are hating because of a grown man making a decision for him and his family putting him(james)in a better position to win championships.Not saying you are hating but i guess people don’t understand buisness.
darrell starks
October 22nd, 2010
2:14 pm
One thing about TEAGUE AND JAMAL PLAYING TOGETHER, teague should always bring the ball up court 2 set up jamal or moe for and open jump shot or penetrate toward the basket for powel and zaza on the blocks for easy basket. NO ONE CAN GUARD TEAGUE 1 ON 1 WITH HIS QUICKNESS.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!
darrell starks
October 22nd, 2010
2:15 pm
LD TEACH DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE.
G HAWKS!!!!!!
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
2:16 pm
I really enjoyed Marvin’s vicious dunk last night. He seemed to enjoy it. Was it in Bosh’s face? I wish we could see more of it.
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
2:23 pm
ASHCAN., the basketball business is the entertainment business. A player can play the game simply because he loves playing, but he gets paid the big money from the fans. LeBron basically told everybody he doesn’t care about anyone but himself and his legacy. He, and others, can say its just business, but a fan, by definition, doesn’t take such a disinterested view of a players actions. Therefore his is near universally despised.
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
2:24 pm
*Therefore *he* is near universally despised.
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
3:13 pm
Heat are not winning the title. Any injury to the Big 3 and they are just a good/great team. They have no PG unless LBJ is running it (Chalmers is very overrated), their bigs are all ancient and lethargic (except for Haslem who is always solid)
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
3:15 pm
Anyone else enjoy that Jamal sonning of LBJ? Did a Rafer Alston jumping between the legs dribble then spin move.
I sometimes wish every play was iso-Jamal. He makes it look so easy and is an extremely underrated passer.
Another thing I loved last night is we double-teamed LBJ a ton, and we are athletic enough to recover.
Double teaming is so much better than that retarded P&R switching where we end up having Bibby on Dwight at the FT line
I think we can compete with any team in this league and even start winning road games this year…. We still have not figured out Orlando. It’s not that we can’t compete against them. We can’t even show up vs. them
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
3:16 pm
Mo Evans’ playing really leaves a lot to be desired.
It seems like his only contribution to the team is a nice game every 10 games or so, and being called for fouls then frowning. He’s very short for a SF in general and really doesn’t put up numbers. Would’ve liked to have seen JC Rook last night
JeJe
October 22nd, 2010
3:17 pm
And trading Jamal is pure idiotic. He is the ONLY player on our bench who can score at least 10 PPG consistently (yes – pathetic). What the heck will we get in return for him? Draft picks?
SWAT Native
October 22nd, 2010
3:19 pm
I wonder if Mark Bradley saw this game, and if he will do a revision to his “Hawks are doomed” blog he posted the other day?
O'Brien
October 22nd, 2010
3:28 pm
For what its worth, the decision was supposed to generate over $2 mil.
James’ team isn’t saying how much in total was raised, but Maverick Carter, CEO of LRMR, did say on Thursday afternoon that more than $2 million in net proceeds will go to the Boys & Girls Club of America. Vitaminwater and Nike also contributed in the charitable effort. .
Decision generates $2.5 mil
But in my opinion, ESPN got their ratings, which is fine. But LeBron shouldnt have done it. He could have written a check for $2.5 mil, and not even blinked.
I hope I got the link post right…
O'Brien
October 22nd, 2010
3:39 pm
I think Teague being injured really slowed him down, because he has only played in 2 games.
If Bibby can play how he did last night on a nightly basis, then I would be ok with him starting. However, Teague needs to be caught up by the time we play teams with fast PGs (Nash, CP3, Rose, Wall etc), because Bibby cannot keep up with them, and our defense will break down.
Rev,
I think the main reason Jordan didnt play last night, is because LD played the rotation that will get the most PT during the season.
With Jamal playing SG and handling the ball sometimes, JJ doing what he does, and Bibby, and Teague, there won’t be much PT (imo) for Jordan in the regular season.
northcyde, Najeh
I’m not sure how I feel about sending JC2 to the D-League. LD probably wants him around for practice, so he can learn the motion offense some more. Also, going up against Jamal and JJ in practice will help his defense.
Grandad
October 22nd, 2010
3:48 pm
Rev,
Rarely do we disagree,
but Zaza last eve was fantastic.
He has lost wgt. Punching @ balls as you say was keeeping balls alive
and tipping/punching them out many of which we came away with.
Plus many times after the catch he would create space, knowing he does
not have the lift to prevent being blocked, so he used his bounce & improved
his angle. Neither did he get a call several times.
To All:
Speaking about getting calls;
I’m sick & tired of LbJ’s Foul shots every trip down the floor.
If he goes to the rim and any attempt is made to defend him, then it’s a foul.
Yet, the same does not apply for Joe, Al, Josh, or Zaza.
Bibby & Teague:
Does it matter who starts if they compliment each other.
Versatility & match-ups = one of our strengths.
STEEL(Formerly VenomSpitter)
October 22nd, 2010
3:48 pm
In case anybody missed Marvin MASHING on Bosh here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fMqLboBFOk
Marvin got his duck on
~~MAC-ToWN~~ (Area Code 478 Westside Macon)
October 22nd, 2010
4:03 pm
uh oh….looks like Oregon doesnt have the only ducks flyin high these days
Rev in Tampa
October 22nd, 2010
4:14 pm
After watching Marvin’s dunk a couple of times, I am actually just as impressed with JJ’s pass to Marvin. And with a hat-tip to Grandad, I noticed how well Zaza was blocking out during the play so that Marvin had the hoop to himself.
Kramerica
October 22nd, 2010
4:21 pm
1. Is Josh Smith ever going to grow up and quit pitching a fit every time a call goes against him?? &
2. QUIT SHOOTING JUMP SHOTS
3. Teague still looks lost
4. Don’t just give the Heat the title yet
Fresh
October 22nd, 2010
4:35 pm
I guess LD has effected the blogs as well lol!
It’s refreshing to see the blog-people actually discussing strategies/matchups using intellegient basketball logic rather than the normal babling on and on about unrealistic trade scenarios and the usual fire “insert your most-hated person here” rants.
Good job people! I can hardly wait until the season tip next week!!!!
See you all next Saturday at the Highlight Factory!!!
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
5:13 pm
Felonious Activities!
T.I. You should move to Los Angeles:
He violates probation after serving 13 months in prison &
He gets 2 weeks to turn himself in for 11 more months.
Lindsay Lohan violates probation bout 8 times and after serving 13/90 days in county jail, she gets rehab for 180 days.
Aye T.I. Get yourself together and do right brotha … The GA Courts will not help you with your drug problems. Or, move to Beverly Hills, CA.
The Point Forward » Posts Court Vision «
October 22nd, 2010
5:18 pm
[...] Is Jordan Crawford out of the regular-season rotation in [...]
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
5:44 pm
“This game reinforced my theory that Chris Bosh is highly overrated. ”
You are not alone in holding this theory.
My theory is that fans and media alike are way too quick to form opinions of players based on physical appearance and other superficial characteristics without actually bothering to pay attention to their game. People see Chris Bosh putting up big numbers in Toronto as a 6′11″, lanky, long-armed PF and they assume that he’s a clone of Kevin Garnett, when in reality he is not as good offensively and nowhere close defensively. There are several NBA big men I’d take over Bosh.
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
5:58 pm
“with the type of money he’s making 124mil im especting 40 points a game 15 assist 10 rebounds 5 steals and 20 game winners at the buzzer.Joe you brushed off the fans,along with those numbers you should also serve the fans beverages in the front row every home game.I think thats about it.”
“I will never understand why peeps are hating because of a grown man making a decision for him and his family putting him(james)in a better position to win championships.Not saying you are hating but i guess people don’t understand buisness.”
So if Joe brushes off his fans it’s a huge offense, but if LeBron gives a nationally televised middle finger to the fans who pulled for him since he was in high school, it is OK?
Najeh Davenpoop
October 22nd, 2010
6:01 pm
“I wonder if Mark Bradley saw this game, and if he will do a revision to his “Hawks are doomed” blog he posted the other day?”
I was thrilled when I saw that. Bradley is so consistently wrong on all of his predictions that picking against the Hawks was the best thing he could have done.
northcyde
October 22nd, 2010
6:09 pm
Nah O’Brien. While I do agree that going up against JJ and Jamal in practice would be a good thing, if he’s outside of the 10-man rotation, he won’t get many opportunities to do so.
I was in that role for about a month my freshman year in college. And what happens is that when 5 on 5 scrimmages happen, you become a sub in practice that gets limited time, rather than one of the top 10 players that play most of the scrimmage.
Scrimmage would be 30 minutes. If you’re a player outside of that top 10, you may play 10 minutes max, unless one of the 2nd team guys were really playing like garbage, and coach wanted to “punish” him.
The fringe guys we had here in the past . . . ( Solo, Salim, Acie, and even Teague ), would’ve been better off actually developing their skills in actual game-like conditions, rather than in practice. In the NBA, you don’t practice every off day anyway, so that lack of playing time will not help a young player develop.
drmaryb (*_*)
October 22nd, 2010
7:10 pm
Najeh said:
“So if Joe brushes off his fans it’s a huge offense, but if LeBron gives a nationally televised middle finger to the fans who pulled for him since he was in high school, it is OK?”
Great Analogy of Biased Thinking!
People typically believe what makes them feel good about themselves.
MsDee
October 22nd, 2010
7:14 pm
New Blog up