Atlanta Hawks: Hawks 90, Blazers 83
Hawks have gotten defensive since adding Hinrich. (Bruce Ely/The Oregonian)
Portland–Watching the Hawks these last two games, I kept thinking back to what some All-Stars on good defensive teams said in L.A: It’s difficult to stop NBA players one-on-one but you can do it as a team if there is a real commitment to the system.
- I don’t know if the Hawks can become that kind of team. I do think it’s more realistic for them to do so now that Hinrich and Teague are playing most of the minutes at point guard. It made an obvious difference at Golden State and again tonight.
- There no longer is an easy swinging gate open to ball-handlers. That had led to breakdowns and obvious frustration as the Hawks were forced to scramble and cover for the guards. They don’t have to do it so much now and it seems to have had the effect of lifting everyone’s defensive level.
- “Obviously during a game you are going to have to help but when it’s limited to a minimum that makes it that much better,” Smoove said. “I think this team can be known as being scrappy and a team that gets after it defensively. That’s what we’ve been the last two games. I think we are finding an identity.”
- “We don’t have to help as much,” Al said. “It takes a lot of pressure from Josh and myself. The guys are really doing a good job getting over screens and staying aggressive. Now we have to keep it going because we look good when we play like that.”
- And the Hawks don’t look so good when they lose focus and nearly squander big leads. They were in total control from the second quarter until they got sloppy with six turnovers in the final four minutes (a couple of them courtesy of flops by Batum, but still).
- “That was really rough,” L.D. said. “We took a lot of ill-advised shots, and then their pressure sped us up and we turned the basketball over. You just can’t do that but hopefully we’ll learn from it.”
- “We’ve been getting big leads but we still have some room for improvement in closing out games,” J.J. said. “But for the most part a win is a win. We’ll take it.”
- It would have been a shame if the Hawks blew this one because they looked like an inspired ball club in stretches. None more so than that 14-1 run in the third quarter when they challenged shots, rebounded, made the right plays in the open court and got easy chances to score.
- “When you do those things, get a lead and make a run, everybody feeling good about themselves on the fast break, a lot of guys who can finish with dunks and layups,” Zaza said. “It’s just fun to play like that. It’s fun to be part of a basketball team when you do those things.”
- Jamal and J.J. each scored at least 20 points for the first time since Jan. 12 at Toronto. They combined for 45 points on 29 shots.
- It turns out that Jamal’s recent struggles may have been related to grief over the death of his friend and mentor Paul Lawrence.
- Teague held up relatively well in his assignment against Andre Miller, who never consistently backed him down. Whenever Miller started to post Teague, help was quick to arrive and then quick to recover once Miller gave it up.
- The same thing goes for Atlanta’s work against LaMarcus Aldridge. He was doubled when he caught in his sweet spots, was never allowed to get comfortable and was challenged constantly at the rim by Smoove.
- It’s easier to help in those predictable, planned situations as opposed to scrambling because of breakdowns.
- “From a bigs standpoint, it was like me and Al had to pick and choose because we didn’t want to get in foul trouble helping every night,” Josh said. “Kirk is a hard-nosed defender. And you have definitely got to tip your hat off to Teague, who was definitely thrown in the fire after really not playing a whole lot. He’s really been handling it well. Whenever you can limit the help on the perimeter it makes the team that much better.”
- Aldridge had 12 points on 12 shots through three quarters.
- “They tried to take away LA and made the other guys shoot the ball,” Blazers coach Nate McMillan said. “We’ve seen that [before] with some of our guys on the floor, they’re not going to let LaMarcus play and they’re going to clog and they’re going to force you to make perimeter shots.”
- The Blazers couldn’t do it. A fair amount of their 17 missed 3-point shots were open but credit the Hawks for not making anything easy for long stretches.
- The Rose Garden was hyped for the return of Marcus Camby and the debut of Gerald Wallace. They were peeved by all the foul calls against the Blazers in the fist half, then turned on their team when the Hawks took control in the third quarter.
- Hinrich now has more road Ws in the last three days than he did in 48 games at Washington. “I can laugh about it now, I guess,” he said.
- Hinrich said he felt more comfortable on defense than offense.
- “Since I’ve been here we’ve talked about defending and bringing the energy,” Hinrich said. :And when we do that we can be a tough team because of the talent we have and athletes and the shooters. If we can lock down on the defensive end, it will make the game a lot easier for us.”
- Zaza, fresh off his benching at Golden State, came into the game and immediately started thrashing the Blazers on the boards. That was a big reason Atlanta forged a 48-36 halftime lead despite Al playing just 10 minutes.
- “The last two games I couldn’t waste my energy, anyway,” Zaza joked. “I just did the things I was supposed to do and rebound was my No. 1 goal. Bottom line that’s what the coaches want. After the last two games I want to do the things that coaches expect from me.”
Michael Cunningham, Hawks beat
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205 comments Add your comment
GaSouthernSmooth
February 28th, 2011
3:26 am
wow. anyone catch LDs pregame speech… talk about not playing a FULL 48 minutes i almost got sick watching the last 4 minutes. but none the less a W against a solid team. Now lets keep it rolling in Den and get the popcorn out for a showdown at the “Highlight Factory” on wed. CMON ATL lets show the home team some love and PACK OUT Phillips when DROSE and that goon noah comes to town.
p.s. keep playing Teague, looks like letting go bibby was all that was needed to play some decent team D. LD thats on you brotha
tenn-hawk
February 28th, 2011
3:28 am
the officials tonight were absolutely horrible,doesnt take away from the roller coaster ride from the hawks tonight,but give me a break!!!! where is the consistancy refs??????
rusty
February 28th, 2011
3:28 am
Yea jj closeing out well means taking the ball out of your hands. You think in the 4th you need to take over the game & go into your iso mood to show us all how great you are. Your the last guy on the team that I want to monopolizing the ball. Ld it just seems that you keep getting dumber as the season progresses
tckr83
February 28th, 2011
3:33 am
I never thought Bibby was that much of a liability to the team, but it’s evident after just 2 games or so… Hinrich will be a great addition to the team. It’s a great win in the Rose Garden against a team that had won 7 of their last 8! The officiating was horrible, this is true. Crawford was just short of tackled twice in the 4th and no call. Next 5 or 6 games are going to tell us alot… uggh. The toughest 5-6 game stretch I can ever remember as a Hawks fan.
tjhook
February 28th, 2011
4:54 am
I haven’t watched the team play since the trade for Hinrich so Thank You MC for painting such a strong picture of the Hawks’ results through game discussion and player quotes.
Jake
February 28th, 2011
5:49 am
LD is hurting teagues Confidence!!!Teague only played a total of 13 Min and Hinrich played 29!!!!You could tell after teague was”Fouled” on the missed layup and Smith dunked it in.He just looked frustrated the whole game!!!
Ernest
February 28th, 2011
6:26 am
•“We don’t have to help as much,” Al said. “It takes a lot of pressure from Josh and myself. The guys are really doing a good job getting over screens and staying aggressive. Now we have to keep it going because we look good when we play like that.”
I think this was a key statement regarding the benefit of the trade. Offense wins games but defense wins championships. Our perimeter defense has significantly improved and it will be felt throughout the team. Once ‘Captain Kirk’ becomes familiar with the preferences and tendencies of his fellow teammates, I’m sure we will see higher shooting percentages with more assists. There will also be confidence by LD while Teague is playing.
I’m probably in the camp that agrees with Teague starting then bringing Hinrich off the bench (with Crawford). I think those are good combinations.
Ray
February 28th, 2011
6:34 am
@ Jake
Teague didn’t play many minutes this game casue LD already said before today he didn’t want him to go up against Andre Miller he’s more of a Power Point G not a speed type point guard.
So it does make since, but still I expect him to play Teague a lot more.
On the fence fan
February 28th, 2011
6:39 am
getting rid of Bibby’s clownish spirit really helps the Hawks they seem to take it more serious Bibby was just a class clown thank god he is gone
Buddy Grizzard
February 28th, 2011
7:05 am
Agree w/ tjhook… MC does a great job. Hawks need to grind out a win at Denver and they go home with a 4-3 winning road trip despite the three game losing streak. Then it’s Chicago and we really find out alot about this team. The Hawks have better talent at every position except point guard against the Bulls. Hinrich will be up for that game as drose tries to show his former “mentor” that the student has become the master.
How Drew handles Teague the next two games is going to tell us alot as well. First we get Denver and Ty Lawson, a player Denver picked one spot ahead of the Hawks after they traded up to draft him. Pure speed and definitely a Teague assignment. Then it’s drose and nobody can stay in front of him, but Teague has the best chance. If LD yanks him after his first couple mistakes, we’ll know it’s back to same old, same old.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
7:13 am
Observation Deck!
One the fence fan: This is a very astute and diabolical observation, that I believe is very, very, very true. I noticed this two years ago and quietly wondered how impactful, overt silliness affects the mindset of a team.
An intangible but powerful characteristic of losers.
I prefer the business like professional approach in sports.
____________________
Let’s Go!
Big Daddy
February 28th, 2011
7:18 am
What a difference over the last 2 games. With Bibby no longer there the team has picked up their defense and has been even better offensively. Teague has not been as bad as LD seemed to think he would be. I hope this is sustainable and marks the beginning of a very positive change. Kudos to the team for responding to the change and for Teague stepping up. The win over a pretty much healthy Trailblazers team should be a confidence booster. GO HAWKS!!!!!!
jg
February 28th, 2011
7:41 am
good win–game went on until 1:25am and i had to stay with it to make sure the hawks didn’t blow it late. the officiating was really bad in the 1st half as portland fans and team thought they were getting the raw end of the whistle and then the refs tried to make it up in the 2nd half by giving the blazers every call–horrible job and those guys need to be held accountable for that job.
great defense that led to easy baskets won this game. teague did play well while he was and i was screaming for his return late in the game. we were a turnover machine in the final few minutes. a big three by crawford really saved the day. hinrich has to get more comfortable handling the ball with this group–he had a lot of turns as did the whole team….very sloppy late–very scary too!
a win tonight would really mean a lot for these guys–a 4 and 3 trip when it could have been really bad would be a plus–denver is playing well–keep the defensive pressure up and run, run, run–got a good chance.
phil
February 28th, 2011
7:41 am
2 games does not a season make, but at least they played some defense apparently. I’m sure it won’t be long, however, until Josh and his whining drag em back down…
Section 303
February 28th, 2011
7:49 am
I am paying the price for staying up and watching the game last night. Going to bed after 1:00AM and getting up before 6:00AM is never a good thing. But, worth it when Hawks get a win.
They did allow the lead to shrink, but that’s just the NBA. It happens a lot. Last night was a good win. I think the best defense they’ve played all season. They were everywhere. To me, the biggest problems were the turnovers. Too many of them were just unforced and the result of lazy/stupid passes. Take those away, and the Hawks win by a larger margin.
Denver will be tough tonight.
Mike is back
February 28th, 2011
7:58 am
MC, great commentary on the game…it’s hard for the ole man to catch those late one on work nights…Congratulation to Hawks for back to back wins on the road…keep doing yo thaaaaang New Hawks!
What a difference a couple of days make…if we get anything near from Armstrong…what we are getting from Captain Kirk…we may finally have youthful talent at two positions that was considered eye sores on the team…imagine that…finally a vet that ain’t scared to lead the team…no more excuses LD…What Ya Gonna Do…now tell me… What Ya Gonna Do!!!
MC, you know it and the blog crew know it…it ain’t no secret…So how some way…we got to find out what got with Armstrong…that’s all I’m saying…preferably before playoff.
jim
February 28th, 2011
8:11 am
that last 4 minutes was hard to watch but the first 44 was awesome. We made some big shots and held on after taking some punches. WE HAVE HAD LOTS OF GAMES WHERE WE ENTER THE FINAL 5-10 MINUTES WAY UP AND LOST BUT OUR DEFENSE HELD UP TONITE. Kirk struggled at the end but taking that charge ended things. Thats what you do!!!!! When things arent going your way, shots aren’t falling, ref’s are calling horrible calls, you don’t watch and scream at ref’s (smooth)…. you play defense.
Good win boys
terrell
February 28th, 2011
8:14 am
Cant believe some people actually act suprised that Bibby’s defense was killin us. Been hollering that shizz for 2 years. lol!
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
8:14 am
“I’m probably in the camp that agrees with Teague starting then bringing Hinrich off the bench (with Crawford). I think those are good combinations.”
Co-Sign
Abe
February 28th, 2011
8:15 am
Can somebody please tell me why Josh is standing at the top of the key throwing passes inside to Joe instead of the opposite!?!
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
8:16 am
“How Drew handles Teague the next two games is going to tell us alot as well. First we get Denver and Ty Lawson, a player Denver picked one spot ahead of the Hawks after they traded up to draft him. Pure speed and definitely a Teague assignment. Then it’s drose and nobody can stay in front of him, but Teague has the best chance. If LD yanks him after his first couple mistakes, we’ll know it’s back to same old, same old.”
Very True.
terrell
February 28th, 2011
8:18 am
Mike, I doubt we see much of Armstrong if Zaza is serious about focusing on rebounds and defense. However, we need to keep the ball out of his hands on the offensive end. lol!
sam'l
February 28th, 2011
8:32 am
I’m all for Teague and Hinrich playing great defense. I think I’ll let LD decide how to divvy up their time.
I’m also up for learning new tricks. Announcers say Portland has been making four quarter comebacks. Watching how they put pressure on the Hawks, I would say, take the tape, get other tapes….break it down, and do it ourselves.
If the Hawks beat Denver and Chicago, are we going to start praising Sund? Didn’t think so.
Denver…milehigh backtoback….Please don’t schedule this again…
lewis
February 28th, 2011
8:37 am
I was blown away by Teague’s ball pressure yesterday. It sets the defensive tone of the game, i’d like to see him start and get 10 minutes per half, 6 with starters 4 with scrubs.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
8:40 am
“Can somebody please tell me why Josh is standing at the top of the key throwing passes inside to Joe instead of the opposite!?!”
______________________
Perhaps Josh is a better passer and joe a better paint finisher.
Why not use Josh skills as a deft passer at times in game situations.
It’s just basketball and not always X’s and O’s.
Chris Webber and Shaq were always lauded for their great passing skills.
Why nit-pick our strengths to death!
Would you rather Josh shoot and not pass, in those plays last night?
_____________________________
“You can Please some of the people some of the time, but never ALL of the people all of the time.”
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
8:54 am
Abe
Also, it may as simple as, joe was positioned inside and josh had the ball standing on the outside? Ever heard of playing inside-out?
_______________________
Peanut Butter inside – Outside Jelly!
kaminari
February 28th, 2011
8:55 am
Again it was fun to watch. I had to stop watching the game at the top of the 4th to go to work (I’m on the other side of the world) but followed the final minutes on the phone. Almost crapped my pants when the lead was down to 6 but we didn’t let this get away.
Without all the turnovers we would’ve blown them away. As it was, this win was over a very good team and we were kind of lucky that they couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with their shooting. But good teams create their own luck & I think starting Teague and having Capt. Kirk off the bench is good. But I’d also like to see what happens when the Captain starts & the Kid comes in.
This team is exciting. Let’s hope they keep it up. Great blog btw MC.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
8:59 am
Happy for the win and a chance to finish the road trip at 4-3 if we can win tonight.
Good game by ZaZa. Maybe LD should bench him ever so often just to get him riled up.
Good defense by Teague, but he has to learn to make some of those shots.
I didnt know Bibby’s (lack of) defense and guys having to scramble to help was affecting the guys that much. They seem to have a new found energy on defense. When Kirk was interviewed on ESPN, he said this team has the (interchangeable) pieces to hang their hats on defense. With Bibby here, that would have never been the case.
That being said, too many turnovers. Jamal had 6, Kirk had 4, Josh had 4, and JJ had 3. We need to take better care of the ball in Denver tonight. And I think it starts with giving the ball to Teague and Hinrich more often. And with Jamal in the game, why is he playing PG while Kirk plays SG?
I think Bibby was a bad crutch fo LD, and I;m glad Rick made a trade. I think Jamal is a bad crutch too, because LD doesnt know the best way to use him, so it will be interesting to see what LD does if Jamal is not resigned.
Looking forward to a win tonight.
ClassicHawks
February 28th, 2011
9:06 am
Can’t believe I’m about to say this, but Rick Sund made an outstanding trade, again. First Jamal, Now Kirk. Kirk makes us a solid defensive team. All I’m going to say, if Jamal and Joe Bring There A Games In The Playoffs, We Could Really make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. And Who Knows What The Celtics Will look like without KP In the Middle. We Defense like we played last nigh, we are going to be very hard to beat in April/May. Goooo Hawks!
Buck
February 28th, 2011
9:10 am
Impressed with ZZP. (never said that before). Hope he can keep it up. He needs to seriously bang Noah. That will take him out of the game.
But please, please, please do not throw any pass to ZZ unless it is chest high and soft and make sure he is looking at you and standing still.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
9:10 am
Nobody!
There once was a man who had a stubborn ole’ mule whom he called “Nobody”! Sometimes, to make the mule GO? The old man would wind up his fist and clock the ole’ mule on the tip of his nose.
One day, the old man wagoned up the ole’ mule and went to town for supplies. A little boy, approached the old man and asked, “What is the ole’ mule’s name?” The old man replied, “I call her Nobody! She’s just a stubborn ole’ mule.”
After loading the supplies, the ole’ mule refused to GO! The old man wound up his “right upper cut” and the ole’ mule did a 360 and kicked the old man “out cold!”
The little boy, seeing this, ran and got the Sheriff! Upon coming around, the Sheriff asked the old man, “Who did this to you?”
_______________________
The old man replied, “Nobody!”
__________________________
The moral of this story is: be careful who you call “Nobody!”
Everybody IS Somebody.
______________________________
Mike Bibby? Was Somebody.
Najeh Davenpoopm
February 28th, 2011
9:19 am
“I don’t know if the Hawks can become that kind of team. I do think it’s more realistic for them to do so now that Hinrich and Teague are playing most of the minutes at point guard. It made an obvious difference at Golden State and again tonight. ”
Well, more importantly, it results from simply subtracting Bibby. Not to take away from Hinrich and Teague, who have both been solid defensively, but really you could have stuck a league average point guard in there and seen a noticeable improvement over Bibby.
I think what’s more remarkable is how much better the offense has looked, for the most part, without Bibby. For a team that (supposedly) runs a motion offense, it’s amazing what a difference it makes to have point guards who can, you know, move. Granted, he’s been playing off the ball a lot, but Hinrich moves without the ball as well as any point guard I can remember seeing. And Teague, despite being up and down offensively, has done a good job of getting the ball out of his hands and into the post when he doesn’t have any driving lanes available. The bottom line is that the ball doesn’t stagnate on the perimeter nearly as often now as it used to, and that is a welcome improvement to the Hawks’ offense. It gives me hope that as Hinrich gets more acclimated and takes over any remaining point guard duties from Jamal Crawford, the Hawks’ offense won’t stagnate in the 4th like how it has for most of the season and like how it did for the final 5 minutes of yesterday’s game.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
9:24 am
“If the Hawks beat Denver and Chicago, are we going to start praising Sund? Didn’t think so.”
If the Hawks advance further in the playoffs, Sund will deserve his props. As will LD. Until then, the jury is out. These last two games have been really promising, but it has still only been two games.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
9:26 am
Also, I hope the inspired play of Zaza continues. The quote at the end of MC’s (really great) writeup gives me hope. Dude is understanding his role and going into the game with a purpose. Lord knows the Hawks need a capable backup big man who can bring it every night and impact the game.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
9:34 am
Najeh!
CoSign that comment re: understanding a role.
Geez, how basic is that?
Hoops
February 28th, 2011
9:51 am
The Hawks are better! We’ll see how much during the next 6-8 games.
K.W.
February 28th, 2011
10:08 am
Nice win for the Hawks, even though they let Portland back into the game. Nice to see when Al was in foul trouble Zaza stepped his game up.
Ken Strickland
February 28th, 2011
10:25 am
How many times have you heard me repeat over and over and over again that Bibby was holding us back with his MATADOR DEF. However, the blame falls at the feet of HC LDrew, who not only insisted on playing Bibby 30+mins, but played him with Jamal. And then, after we’d get our butts whipped, he’d make the same lame post gm excuses that Woodson made.
Can any of you Bibby apologist, who insisted on claiming we’d lose gms if we started Teague or played him more mins, tell me if we’d be better off or worse off if we had benched Bibby much earlier? Let’s face it, LDrew shares the same bias for vet PG’s and against rookie and/or less experienced PG’s. He also demonstrates a shared Woodson approach when he makes these lame excuses in an attempt to coverup his bias’.
There were numerous fans who totally bought into his BS excuses. Not once did LDrew, or any of Bibby’s apologists, make any comments about: 1-Bibby’s lack of aggressiveness,
2-his awful DEF,
3-him deferring to JJ and Jamal more and more,
4-his poor and inconsistent OFF production,
5-his inability to penetrate or create easy scoring opportunities for others,
6-the problems he caused for his teammates both on OFF and DEF.
Yet, there were no shortages of excuses coming forth from both LDrew and our Bibby apologist. In just 2 gms, we’ve all seen what I saw all along when it came to Teague and Bibby. Just like Bibby’s poor DEF was having a negative effect on everyone else’s DEF, the solid DEF of Teague and Hinrich is having a positive effect on everyone else’s DEF.
It does appear as if LDrew intends on using the same approach with Teague that Woodson used with Royal Ivey.
J from the A
February 28th, 2011
10:29 am
I have been critical of Teague this year — well, at least more so than just everybody on this blog with the exception of northcyde — but I have to admit that Teague has looked very decent in the last couple of games. If Teague can keep it up, I think he may be ready for good rotational minutes.
Freshfromatl
February 28th, 2011
10:54 am
Ken Strickland,
I will be the FIRST person to give you your props on what you’ve been preaching about the Hawks all season long.
*Salutes*
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
10:59 am
Haha word. Big time vindication for you, Ken Strickland.
Trojan
February 28th, 2011
11:03 am
Is there a vet that the Hawks might sign for the remainder of the season. Jarvis Hayes, other?
We have a spot open.
Ken Strickland, I hope that Teague continues to get consistant minutes in order to develop.
Good article, MC.
Rufus1
February 28th, 2011
11:05 am
We are Better….
We have beaten the Magic Twice…We are better than the Magic
We have beaten The Heat….Miami can’t beat good teams, we are a good.
We haven’t played the Bulls…Our defense is now Elite, and our perimeter defense maybe the best in the League.
We have lost to the Celtics Twice but with Perkins gone, they have lost their advantage. …The next time we play, we will prove we are better than them.
Perimeter Defense keep the Hawks from being Elite, NOW WE HAVE IT!!!!!
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
11:05 am
Tonight’s game is really going to be tough, though. Not just the altitude, but also the fact that the Hawks get less than 24 hours between the end of last night’s game and the start of tonight’s game, and they probably didn’t go to sleep until 3 or 4 in the morning mountain time. Add in that Denver has looked really good since the Carmelo trade, and it’s probably going to be tough for the Hawks to match the Nuggets’ usual level of intensity. It’s a valid excuse, but I hope the Hawks don’t have to use it.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
11:11 am
And … Mike Woodson was Somebody.
Mr Mojo
February 28th, 2011
11:11 am
Lets finish it tonight in Denver and comlpete this trip 4-3 would be a big boost.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
11:12 am
Ken Strickland is the first who said this team would be better served with Bibby coming off the bench, at least what I recall.
What I don’t like is how long Larry stood by him and shoved Bibster down our throat? It tells me that Larry is letting the players tell him who they are most comfortable with on the court…how many times was there some sort of reference from other players that they preferred Bibster out there? This tells me that Larry is not fully in charge of the troops. Why else would Josh continue to jack up those long bombs?
0-3 early on, and my gut tells me that doesn’t hurt his confidence at all.
Anyone else keeping up with the Wizard’s Bibster? 1.0 ppg in 14.5 mpg.
So if Bibster can’t provide set shot 3 pointers, what can he provide?
That hoopshype rumor about Bibster to Portland is laughable….amazing what some people consider as a good opportunity. Portland will drop hard if they hand the ball to him.
And crediting Sund going forward? Hardly…he made a move because he was forced to make a move……there are way too many intelligent fans out there who can see a bad thing, yet the GM thinks we have no clue as to the inner workings of the organization….its basketball, not corporate money swindling. Take your medicine Sund, you and Larry don’t deserve the credit at this point. You almost put this year into the ruin bucket before the playoffs even began.
I am more optimistic than I have been about this team since the Boston playoff series in ‘07. Talk about sad to watch a team stand pat when you know there were numerous changes needed to progress forward.
Instead, we worried how cheap of a bench we could put together and coddled the incumbents.
Nothing better in my mind, than taking a ‘PRIME’ piece out of the core and start holding players accountable.
And please fill that roster slot 15 before Larry suggests to bring Bibster back as a seasoned vet.
Rufus1
February 28th, 2011
11:12 am
Don’t worry about ESPN….
The east has taken notice. The teams in the east have always feared we would find a PG and a defensive identity……THE SEARCH IS OVER!!
Rod from College Park
February 28th, 2011
11:13 am
I am really impressed with the defense being played by the Hawks. The defense has really improved with the removal of Bibby. That is something I think we all knew. LD should be blamed for playing Bibby so many minutes.
The guy that is really starting to concern me is Joe Johnson. He actually has started missing point blank layups and making some awful turnovers. He misses these layups because he totally tries to avoid contact, unstead of going up strong and drawing the foul, like all superstars do. I can’t tell if he is injured or not, but he needs to start going to the hole like a man, and not like a little boy. I also can not figure out for the life of me why LD allows Joe to go into ISO mode in the 4th quarter, when the motion offense has been working all game. It makes no common sense to stop doing what works. Our lead diminishing was directly related to Joe holding the ball, dribbling down the shot clock, and missing shots in the 4th quarter. Jamal does the same thing, but he is quick enough and decisive enough to make his move without totally draining the shot clock.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
11:15 am
Mojo, after that shellacking by the Lakers, we are so lucky to be at 3-3 heading to Denver. Its amazing how long it takes Larry and Sund to see something isn’t working. This falls right in line with Sund’s approach to making roster changes.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
11:16 am
Rod, I totally agree; the motion offense works. Can it work in the 1/2 court for an entire game? We will soon find out.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
11:22 am
This is It!
” it’s amazing what a difference it makes to have point guards who can, you know, move. Granted, he’s been playing off the ball a lot, but Hinrich moves without the ball as well as any point guard I can remember seeing.
_____________________________
A minor, but critical adjustment changes the game.
_____________________________
” How many times have you heard me repeat over and over and over again that Bibby was holding us back with his MATADOR DEF. However, the blame falls at the feet of HC LDrew, who not only insisted on playing Bibby 30+mins, but played him with Jamal.”
_____________
Perhaps, The Coach had to expose the player/problem to the GM and Owners to force a trade. Also, the Coach cried to the media for a shake-up/line up change/ultimately a – trade? These owners are more stubborn than anyone on this staff: Woodson, J-Smoove, et. al.
Edgewood Adam
February 28th, 2011
11:27 am
Either Joe Johnson is hurt or he has just completely broke down. Its gotten to the point where he does not hit open shots. This team could be really something if Joe starts playing to his potential. Why has there been no talk of how horribly he has played over the last 7 games? He seems to just disappear. That is not what the “best” player on this team should be doing. I hate to be so negative because the team has been a joy to watch the last 2 games but something has got to give with Joe.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
11:28 am
Najeh
I liked the italics you put on “move” in that stellar post.
doc
February 28th, 2011
11:32 am
ken said this a couple days ago at the end of a blog:
“maybe the ole’ defense will be a part of the past. i dont know if this trade is the one but we are better on defense, more able to run, hinrich will actually help on the boards because he still has wheels and good court sense and skills being very heady if not an all star. i like the trade because it was absolutely necessary if we are to entertain beating orlando in seven and out pace the knicks to the finish line.” then maybe take care of business in round two.
what is nice is the hawks can look for stops now. as it was before they didnt know when their defense could do the job. i really like a team that can defend and depend on that being there every game. though it is fun to watch time to time, the high scoring games dont have the tenacity i like to watch and admire. i hope this signals a change in attitude and emphasis. i think the hinrich addition will add flavor to this notion. still want to see hinrich finishing games with the marvin, jj jsh and al ine up or maybe having him with jamal, jj josh and al as the end. i think it will be better at fifnishing as he can do the small vet things to disrupt the other team.
what is also necessary that they begin to respect each and every possession on both ends of the court. they have been too lackadaisical in their approach thinking their mistakes can be taken care of later in the game. if LD wants to preach something that is what i want to hear more of. the truly good teams know this, practice it and it shows.
not sure if the box score line suggests it but though it wasnt mentioned, it seems maybe marvin had the type of game we need him to have every game. i hope he finds the courage to do this on the yellow brick road.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
11:36 am
DMB, you know how Larry should have exposed Bibster? But slapping his funny bone on the bench! He was dreadful after his hot shooting run. Everyone hear knew he would wear down..how is that possible for a vet who ’should’ be a top conditioned athlete wear down?
Larry is to blame as much as Sund…this coach gets no credit for this move. He is forced to play Teague right now and his true decision making will come out in a week or 2 after Kirk gets acclimated.
Is he going to ride the Hindrich horse until gets hurt?
Does he have zero interest in growing Teague or does he just dislike the kid altogether? Larry and all those DNPs tells me he in over his head and I will stand by that until he no longer the head coach here.
Didn’t I read here that Miller, who was a bad matchup for Teague didn’t get a bucket while Teague was guarding him? Someone help me understand our head coaches’ decisions/comments….
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
11:38 am
Everyone hear…I meant everyone ‘here’…no matter, Bibster is gone!
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
11:39 am
Interpretation is Key!
“It tells me that Larry is letting the players tell him who they are most comfortable with on the court.”
__________________
How do you know that Coach Drew did not initiate and push Bibby out that door? You really don’t know?
_____________________
Be careful, with baseless accusations. Drew may have exposed Bibby to rid Bibby. You just, really, don’t know.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
11:41 am
“not sure if the box score line suggests it but though it wasnt mentioned, it seems maybe marvin had the type of game we need him to have every game. i hope he finds the courage to do this on the yellow brick road.”
Maybe it would help to have his role defined clearly for him, like how Zaza seems to have had his role defined for him in the last couple of days. Maybe if LD were to tell Marvin to focus on one or two things, like active on ball defense and perimeter shooting, Marvin’s play would pick up like Zaza’s did yesterday.
Marvin has had some good games over the last couple of weeks, but it seems like he either plays well or he is just awful. There’s no in between with him. Having a more defined role may go a long way toward getting some consistency out of him.
Freshfromatl
February 28th, 2011
11:48 am
Doc,
I agree with you about Marvin. 11pts, 7 rebs, and good defense. Good Game Marvin. He needs to bring that effort he brought last night, every night (and that goes for Zaza too).
superiorblogman
February 28th, 2011
11:49 am
“From a bigs standpoint, it was like me and Al had to pick and choose because we didn’t want to get in foul trouble helping every night,” Josh said. “Kirk is a hard-nosed defender. And you have definitely got to tip your hat off to Teague, who was definitely thrown in the fire after really not playing a whole lot. He’s really been handling it well. Whenever you can limit the help on the perimeter it makes the team that much better.”
The players notice that Teague is now a big part of this. Hopefully, that will warrant more minutes. Teague is only averaging 16 minutes since Hinrich came. LD is just waiting to bury him for no reason but we all see now that he has a good effect.
Samuel
February 28th, 2011
11:50 am
I understand the optimism but let’s not get too carried away here. We beat two teams with a combined 59 and 58 record.
Freshfromatl
February 28th, 2011
11:51 am
KevinM,
You touched on a point that I could really see (and would hate to see happen) this ownership group entertaining. If Bibby, in-fact does buy out his contract, would Sund bring him back? Hopefully not, but I wouldn’t be surprised one bit. DON’T DO IT SUND!!
Miles D
February 28th, 2011
11:51 am
How about letting Teague play more at the end of games! His speed is what could help us maintain leads and keep distance, instead of playing not to lose by running Iso Joe too much down the home stretch of ballgames!
Shake Something
February 28th, 2011
11:51 am
Man Joe Johnson should post up the small guards more often like he did these past 2 games and force the doubles like he was doing in the ISO mode.More of that would possibly open Jamal up when he is on the court or Hinrich.I liked Bibby ,but thank goodness we got Hinrich,a second team all defensive guy at one point.I really think Hilton should have been getting some burn,but maybe he will on this home stand.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
11:52 am
“Larry is to blame as much as Sund…this coach gets no credit for this move. He is forced to play Teague right now and his true decision making will come out in a week or 2 after Kirk gets acclimated.”
____________________
KevinM
But, if Coach had not been forced to play Bibby? (See Sund), Then would Bibby have been a tradeable asset? Didn’t Bibby lead the entire league for 5 weeks in 3 PF%? Isn’t the only measurable asset Bibby displayed this season? Did he not return a PG in Kirk Hinrich? Sometimes, exposure is the best light.
Perhaps, Coach Drew is a smarter, pragmatic and more effective
puppet- master, then we give him credit for.
___________________
How does a rat eat an elephant? That’s right … One bite at a time.
We fans can be overly obsessive and critical from a lounge chair.
“This is The NBA, man!”. -joe hohnson-
Wabe
February 28th, 2011
11:52 am
I want to see how consistently the new-look Hawks play on the defensive end.
If the Hawks continue to build on this suffocating style of defense they’ve played these past two games, they will be a tough out come playoff time.
I don’t think the Hawks have ever put together back to back defensive games like the one’s they just put together. Granted, they weren’t against the best teams in the league, they’re still much better off defensively now than they’ve ever been in recent history.
Hope to see another great defensive performance tonight at Denver.
rusty
February 28th, 2011
11:56 am
JJ just needs to run the offense just like he has since he has been here.we paid him 123m to keep being the man. We need him to take over the 4th quarter & dribble & dribble until he finds a shot . This is his strength,ask nortcyde. We can’t trust the rook jt to handle the ball in crunch time, ld would rather see him where he thinks he belongs on the bench. Oh & we all know he played mb so much that it would force sound to trade him
Wabe
February 28th, 2011
11:57 am
By the way, what is this bum talking about?
@johnhollinger Great job by Joe helping Teague on that Miller post-up. Hawks often just let him get devoured down there. Not tonight.
Teague never sees the floor guy, so how does he just get devoured down there?
Also…
@johnhollinger Teague just successfully executed a fast break. Looks like it’s Atlanta’s night.
Again, this guy never sees the floor, so what are you talking about?
Hate just a bit?
Trojan
February 28th, 2011
12:00 pm
Everyone understanding their exact and limited role is the key. Larry has to define that role. And if LD could not understand the Bibby situation, how should we expect him to define roles?
JoJo the Godfather
February 28th, 2011
12:00 pm
If it aint broke, don’t fix it. Start Teague tonight. Hinrich off the bench.
JoJo the Godfather
February 28th, 2011
12:02 pm
If the hawks lose tonight, they finish the month 6 & 6. Sund will no longer be able to brag about consecutive winning months. Or will he just change it to consecutive months without a losing record?
Geemack
February 28th, 2011
12:03 pm
The Hawks gave up 2 vets and 2 1st rd draft pick (JC2) for Hinrich.
Why is he coming off the bench?
Freshfromatl
February 28th, 2011
12:05 pm
@johnhollinger should be slapped. It’s okay thought, as long as the Hawks keep winning and playing great team defense. The bums will have no choice but to take notice! That’s one reason I love the Hawks schedule in March, they yhave the prime opportunity to get it tuned up just in time for the playoffs and they can put a lot of people around the league on high alert.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
12:12 pm
Geemack, if you are going to include one side of the deal, include Armstrong as well….and Hindrich will be starting soon enough.
Larry isn’t comfortable with Teague and probably never will be. At least give the kid some regular rotation minutes, and play him more if he excels…that is all I would expect any head coach to do instead of holding a grudge because he’s not a vet that his teammates prefer to have on the court.
DMB, I don’t buy the Sund tells Larry to play Bibster 30+ mpg and he has very little to show for it, and we deal with several blowouts. That is what doesn’t make sense…..but I’m not there, so what would I know? My sight tells me to bench ‘Prime’ and go with energy and think about the team instead of hurting feelings.
Larry has a problem dealing with reality it appears.
Veteran Fan
February 28th, 2011
12:17 pm
It is amazing what a trade will do! The “CORE” is actually playing defense and running the floor! Hope it lasts, but it never has! Actually in Denver on business and will go to the game to see if they are professional enough to put up a strong showing! They usually just mail in the last game on these western trips. Don’t think Kirk will put up with a lack of effort as he is so happy to be out of Washington, he is busting his butt!
mountain_jim
February 28th, 2011
12:39 pm
Hope Za Za keeps the fire going that coach lit under his butt….
I was glad to get to see last night’s game on TV. Don’t get many here and not buying the pass.
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
12:39 pm
Im Pumped for the game tonight. It’s time for some draft day vindication!
Teague > Lawson
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
12:40 pm
Hindrich reminds me of Mo Williams….anything looks better than where I just left!
Do I expect a victory tonight? I really don’t, but if this team starts playing consistently, they should at least make a good game of it. But you won’t win with 20+ turnovers despite our record in Game 2 of back-2-backs….
The Truth
February 28th, 2011
12:43 pm
(See how that works Zaza, you got rewarded 6 more extra minutes for your fine performance) So:
Will the real Zaza please stand up!!!
Props to him for finally bringing some real (big-man) production off the bench; As we have jested in the past about stepping on Marvin’s foot before game-time getting him mad to motivate him, maybe we periodically whisper trade rumor about Zaza getting him angry to play with more passion. He looked freshly rejuvenated and played with a purpose. Maybe the acquisition of Hilton also played a role in his motivation to upgrade his game.
What ever it was, I appreciate the effort.
J from the A
February 28th, 2011
12:45 pm
FWIW (probably not much), several of the betting blogs/sites are predicting a big win for the Hawks tonight.
Keep the turnovers down and the intensity up and this new-look Hawks squad can run with anyone in the league.
Freshfromatl
February 28th, 2011
12:54 pm
I think we should all pitch-in and send flowers to whatever playoff team (Boston or Miami) that signs Bibby. Nothing would make my day more than seeing Teague destroying this dude on the perimeter.
Reggie
February 28th, 2011
1:02 pm
Samuel
February 28th, 2011
11:50 am
I understand the optimism but let’s not get too carried away here. We beat two teams with a combined 59 and 58 record.
That’s true Samuel but those two teams are also a combined 39-22 at home, a place where we pretty much dominated them both.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:18 pm
“I understand the optimism but let’s not get too carried away here. We beat two teams with a combined 59 and 58 record.”
Portland is a legit playoff team in a deep Western Conference. The game against Golden State didn’t prove much, but beating Portland at the Rose Garden is impressive no matter how you slice it.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:22 pm
John Hollinger is a corny ass nerd. Everything in basketball has to fit into his perfect little PER-dictated world for him. He lives in Atlanta and has probably been to more Hawks games this year than most of us on this blog, but all his tweets are either about the Philips crowd or the other team.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
1:22 pm
Najeh, I got to thinking that perhaps like us Portland shouldn’t have settled for just one significant move. They were ready to blow it up just prior to that winning streak.
I like that team also; they play with a lot of energy, but they do need a change in the backcourt. And moving Pryzbilla only makes their frontline that much thinner.
No way they compete with the Lakers going forward.
tom
February 28th, 2011
1:22 pm
wasn’t golden state 7 wins in 9 games before we played them on friday?
Dr. Warren
February 28th, 2011
1:24 pm
Great article, MC. Full of good information. I like the bullet-pointed style. Easier to read and digest.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:26 pm
“If Bibby, in-fact does buy out his contract, would Sund bring him back? Hopefully not, but I wouldn’t be surprised one bit. DON’T DO IT SUND!!”
Two reasons it won’t happen:
1. The Hawks can’t sign a free agent until March 12 without going over the luxury tax, and even then they can only sign for a minimum salary.
2. Players who get bought out usually try to land in places where they will be able to contribute to a contender. Having been traded away from here for his replacement, Bibby would rightly assume that he can’t get big minutes here. A team like the Celtics (who just traded away Nate Robinson) or the Heat (whose point guard situation is even more abysmal than the Hawks pre-trade) would likely be able to promise Bibby minutes that the Hawks don’t have available.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
1:29 pm
Well, Miami heading to solidify their PG position:
http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/211573/Heat_Will_Pursue_Bibby_Pending_Buyout
That will put the nail in the coffin for the Heatles.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
1:29 pm
Also, Portland had won 7 out of 9 coming into last night’s game.
The Hawks have played much better on the road, so it will be interesting to see how they play at home. Will their new found defensive intensity carry over to home games?
I am looking forward to Hinrich on Rose for the 3 games coming up though.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:30 pm
“FWIW (probably not much), several of the betting blogs/sites are predicting a big win for the Hawks tonight. ”
The post-Melo Nuggets are being slept on by everyone. That is a legit, deep team that could make some noise in the playoffs. The Hawks better not take them lightly. JR Smith and Gallinari are going to force the Hawks to close out on the perimeter, the Felton/Lawson combo will be the toughest test yet for the Hawks’ new defensive PG combo, and Nene is the kind of physical center who can give Al Horford problems. They don’t have the go to scorer Portland has, but they are every bit as deep and talented.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:32 pm
“Will their new found defensive intensity carry over to home games?”
One favorable sign in that regard is that the Hawks have several marquee matchups coming up, so fans (myself included) are going to turn out. The Hawks have implied earlier in the season that they get complacent at home because of a lack of crowd energy, but that likely won’t be the case this month.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
1:36 pm
“I like that team also; they play with a lot of energy, but they do need a change in the backcourt. And moving Pryzbilla only makes their frontline that much thinner.”
If they could ever get healthy, they would be a serious threat. The Przybilla for Wallace trade was a clear talent upgrade, so I can’t fault it all that much, but it definitely makes beating the Lakers more problematic, especially if Camby gets injured again. But they are fun to watch, like a lot of those 2-6 seeds in the West.
Zach Blend
February 28th, 2011
1:37 pm
A few thoughts…
1) Zaza stopped worrying about his Bottle Bar and started concerning himself on the boards.
2) The focus on perimeter defense allows are bigs to be in better position to board.
3) Are fast break is rusty.
4) Hinrich has proved he can hit the open 3.
5) We’re getting to the line and knocking them down (5th best in league)
6) Josh Powell is has brought production the last two nights
7) Joe has proved he can score 22 quitely. That’s ok.
9) Powe, Kapono are available
10) Excitement in the air.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
1:44 pm
Jordan Crawford article;
http://www.bulletsforever.com/2011/2/28/2019630/jordan-crawford-wizards-hawks-mavericks/
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
1:47 pm
Crawford didn’t literally mean that everything he learns is meaningless if he doesn’t get a chance to show it off in game action. He credits lessons learned from Jamal Crawford, Mike Bibby and Hawks assistant coach Nick Van Exel (”like Sam Cassell here” is how he described him) for working with him in practice extensively.
But when asked to follow up a little bit more on how he tries to improve his game even given his previous lack of playing time, he went back to the same point.
“I had Nick Van Exel in Atlanta. It was good for me,” he said. “But as a person, I just feel like games is where you really get better.”
Flip Saunders: “He didn’t play a whole lot when he was in Atlanta, but I was talking to Mike Bibby, and he said ‘Coach, I’m telling you, this kid is extremely talented,” Saunders said. “He might not have played a lot, but he’s got unbelievable talent.”.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
1:47 pm
OB, JC2 link didn’t work for me
buckhead benny
February 28th, 2011
1:56 pm
dude, I have been trying to tell people that Bibby was a bum- I saw him and Horford, Josh Smith like 3 different times out at tongue and groove acting like complete idiots- Bibby came down to the Atl to get his groove on- and it pretty much shows when you get blown out at home by 40 plus points- I would start drug testing dudes because that crap speaks to partying your a’** off and having no sleep-
trust me I have been there and those dudes did not have their game face on- I will tell you that- this Heinrich, and teague duo I like it man- its exactly what I believe the hawks needed- a smart touch defender that can shoot the ball- and I even like the depth the big man gives them-
I think they should dump Marvin next year too- He just rubs me wrong the way he walks- Men aren’t supposed to walk like that-
Worldwide Clyde
February 28th, 2011
1:58 pm
“I think they should dump Marvin next year too- He just rubs me wrong the way he walks- Men aren’t supposed to walk like that-”
Marvin walk like Wanda from In Living Color
Worldwide Clyde
February 28th, 2011
2:00 pm
O’Brien re-up that link I’d like to read that article.
I’m telling yall giving away Jordan Crawford is going to come back to haunt us.
Mr Mojo
February 28th, 2011
2:06 pm
Yes we are lucky to have a chance at 4-3. If we get bumped in 1st rd or swept in 2nd rd again they will both be gone most likely. As i said the day the Bibby trade went through he will be bought out and sign with Miami. Well it looks like that will happen. He will actually fit perfectly there all he has to do is spot up for open 3’s.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
2:14 pm
Jordan Crawford’s article;
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Jordan Crawford played 16 minutes in the Wizards’ 105-99 loss to the Mavericks on Saturday night, which is exactly one-tenth of the amount of minutes he played in his entire NBA career before being traded from the Hawks. Many of those minutes came at the end of the game, when Flip Saunders put him out there with four other starters to try to steal a win from the league’s hottest team.
Afterwards, Crawford’s voice was hoarse and his demeanor weary. But in the midst of a rare postgame interview for him, he shared his philosophy on player development on the NBA level. To Crawford, it all comes down to playing time.
“You can’t [develop without playing time],” he said. “You can’t. That’s how I look at it. I don’t think you can. I was always the type of person where I felt I got better in a five-on-five [situation]. When you play a game, that’s how you really get better.
It was an astute comment, one that applies to him and for this organization as a whole.
Crawford didn’t literally mean that everything he learns is meaningless if he doesn’t get a chance to show it off in game action. He credits lessons learned from Jamal Crawford, Mike Bibby and Hawks assistant coach Nick Van Exel (”like Sam Cassell here” is how he described him) for working with him in practice extensively. But when asked to follow up a little bit more on how he tries to improve his game even given his previous lack of playing time, he went back to the same point.
“I had Nick Van Exel in Atlanta. It was good for me,” he said. “But as a person, I just feel like games is where you really get better.”
Crawford inadvertently hit on the biggest challenge any NBA coach faces, especially with a young team like this one. When I asked Flip Saunders before the game how difficult it is for a coach to facilitate player development, he noted that, realistically, nine of his players are youngsters who need consistent minutes. But you can only play five guys at a time, so no matter what you do, some players just won’t get their chance.
For one night, Crawford got his chance, and the results were mixed. He clearly has a very refined offensive game, flashing a nice mid-range pull-up, a three-point shot and an ability to get into the lane. The Wizards have talked up his “competitiveness” ever since acquiring him from the Hawks, and we saw a little bit of that on display at the end of the game. But he’s also the kind of player who needs game experience to figure out how he can be most effective. He seems a little too anxious when he’s out on the floor, desperately trying to make plays that, for now, are not routine for him.
Saunders, for one, sees a lot of talent in Crawford. He said the Wizards had him high on their draft board last year and loves the way he competes.
“He didn’t play a whole lot when he was in Atlanta, but I was talking to Mike Bibby, and he said ‘Coach, I’m telling you, this kid is extremely talented,” Saunders said. “He might not have played a lot, but he’s got unbelievable talent.”
Crawford said his biggest strength offensively is his ability to both hit the jump shot and get to the rim in a half-court setting. He wouldn’t tell me his favorite spot on the floor, but did admit that corner threes are good spots because of the shorter distance to the rim. But for him to make the most out of all his skills, he needs to become more efficient. His usage rate in Atlanta (27.9 percent) was way too high, and it was similarly high (25.3) even against Dallas.
For Crawford, that is a two-step process: slowing down when on the court and learning how he fits into a team setting. I asked him about the challenges of doing that, and he said he feels he is capable of figuring those out.
“My tendency at Xavier was to try to do everything, and now, I can back off,” he said. “If you’re a selfish player, yeah, it can be tough [to adjust]. But not if you’re an unselfish player.”
Of course, that goes back to Crawford’s astute analysis at the top. He’s got a lot of talent, and now that he has more of an opportunity to show it than he had in Atlanta. You can bet that he will do everything he can to try to take advantage of it. But to facilitate his development, he needs playing time to work out the kinks, get used to an NBA setting and learn how to best use his skills in a team setting.
“He’s got to learn what we’re doing, with our concepts, and as most rookies do, he has to learn the game,” Saunders said.
It’s the biggest challenge for Saunders going forward. This league is full of Jordan Crawford types. It’s on Saunders to figure out a way to get the most out of his..
tony
February 28th, 2011
2:16 pm
HIRE BILL LAIMBEER!
northcyde
February 28th, 2011
2:27 pm
O’Brien . . that article on Crawford is more of an indictment on ownership not utilizing the D-League for player development, than anything else.
Most people knew that when we acquired Jordan, that he’d have a hard time getting out on the court with an all-star and 6th man of the year playing the 2 guard. The only way he was going to see playing time is if he could play an extremely small SF, and beat out Mo Evans . . or if he could play PG, and take minutes from Bibby and Teague.
Ownership should’ve utilized the D-League when some of the young players weren’t getting minutes. Why they don’t utilize that more, I don’t know.
Ken Strickland
February 28th, 2011
2:30 pm
With our frontline players no longer having to scramble and worry about covering up for a DEF liability, let along 2, it’s makes it so much easier for them to get into rebounding position. During our most recent loses, we were getting hammered on the boards because our Bigs were usually defending on the perimeter and out of rebounding position.
Also, with us now being able to initiate our OFF well below the 3pt line, we’re going inside more and getting better ball movement. Both of our current PG’s are actually controlling the ball and the OFF, which has drastically increased ball and player movement, and all by eliminated deferring to JJ or Jamal.
I believe it will take KHinrich about 15-20gms to fully get comfortable with the OFF/DEF schemes and his teammates. Once that happens, look out. Isn’t it odd that with DEF being our biggest problem over the last 2-3yrs, it turned out to be the easiest one to fix?
northcyde
February 28th, 2011
2:38 pm
On the Teague issue, I’ll definitely give Ken his props if the kid continues to put forth the effort defensively that he has the past 3 games. There is no doubt that while his offensive game still has a long way to go, that he has made a difference defensively.
The only problem with the assessments going on though is this. Even if we’d benched Bibby, he still would’ve had to play ( most likely alongside Jamal Crawford ), which means that the 2nd team would be weaker defensively.
For this to work like it has, a defensive PG that could also provide a little offense, had to be brought in. In that aspect, Hinrich is doing an adequate job offensively and a hell of a job defensively. I don’t know if the defense all around would still be seen, if Bibby was still playing in a backup role. He had to be removed altogether, in order for the D to improve.
Teague isn’t necessarily running the team offensively, but he is making his presence known on defense, and most important, playing all out on that end of the floor. You just have to wonder why he, and especially a guy like Zaza, couldn’t play like that all year.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
2:38 pm
northcyde,
Co-sign. I dont know why the Hawks dont use the D-League more.
From the Washington Post;
The Wizards are close to completing a buyout for point guard Mike Bibby, according to a league source. Bibby’s agent, David Falk, is currently speaking with Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld to get a deal finalized.
But the source said that Falk is also looking for a possible destination for Bibby. Portland, Miami, Boston and possibly Denver are believed to have interest in the 32-year-old Bibby, whom the Wizards acquired from Atlanta in a trade involving Kirk Hinrich..
His brother-in-law (Eddie House) plays for the Heat, but they also have Chalmers and arroyo. All Boston has is Rondo, since they traded Nate. I think he ends up in Boston.
How ironic will it be that Bibby ends up in Boston, and makes it to the NBA final? Last season, Shelden Williams made it to the finals with Boston.
mykhalc
February 28th, 2011
2:42 pm
“Teague isn’t necessarily running the team offensively, but he is making his presence known on defense, and most important, playing all out on that end of the floor. You just have to wonder why he, and especially a guy like Zaza, couldn’t play like that all year.”
co-sign…and Marvin is still a bum!!!
northcyde
February 28th, 2011
2:51 pm
As for JJ . . it’s amazing that people still criticize him last night. There is no doubt that at the end of games, the holding of the ball, especially so far out on the perimeter, isn’t the best way to operate.
But some act like he was a non-factor last night. He had 16 points in the 2nd half, and was a big part of the defense last night with his help defense and deflectons.
As I’ve said before about him . . even when he does play well, people still talk ish about JJ, like he’s a scrub or something.
What I want to see Hinrich do at the end of games, is go get the ball from JJ, and run a play. Direct the team at the end of the game, much in the way that Chauncey Billups did the Knicks last night.
Ryder
February 28th, 2011
2:57 pm
It’s going to take a scrappy mentality to win on the road against the Magic, Heat or Celtics in the playoffs. Championship teams know how to adjust their mindset to play half court basketball on both sides of the ball, and if Atlanta wants to change their results from the last two years then they will need to play defense first and everything else second.
al-ref You-blow
February 28th, 2011
2:57 pm
Last night was the first hawks game of the season for me. Ok Refs sucked but thats what the do. Teauge should start every game and more playing time please. why was he not in there at the end is amazing. He is young and let him end a game put peasure on the young kid now we will need by the end of the year. Yes he should stated last year and this year too. the team will handle his mistakes. Capt Kirk and his starship crew will be fine given time to jell. Now if ZaZa can bring that every night good we can pull josh every time he jacks up a three with more than 5 sec on the shot clock. Now please play the new big so we can all see what we got. please go deeper into the bench it a long season and we will need Every Body. JJ great game keep doing what you are doing … shh do not get your superstar mad he might wants to get traded to the Knick or south beach. Coach LD ok except for that last four min I have never like a prevent dee or off….. keep doing what got you there. Again a sub to put in your best ball handler would showed me you got some. hmm
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
3:02 pm
northcyde,
What I want to see Hinrich do at the end of games, is go get the ball from JJ, and run a play..
It takes more than Hinrich to make this happen. There were plays last night when Josh got the rebound, and looked away from Hinrich, but readily gave the ball up to JJ.
It’s a culture in Hawksville, that JJ is the man. And thats one of the reasons why the team struggles down the stretch. Because the team stands around and waits for JJ to do something, instead of doing more to help him out.
And even with Hinrich in the game, Jamal was playing point.
LD is the one who has to take charge of the situation, because most of the players defer to JJ, so I dont see Hinrich doing any different.
Fundamentals
February 28th, 2011
3:03 pm
I hope Crawford does well, but folks have to realize it’s easy to get minutes and stats on a dead end team who can’t win. He was insurance, when Joe signed, he became unnecessary.
ZaZa proves it’s his own personal motivation and selfishness. Play your role, you’ll help this team and become an icon again.
Marvin proves once again he doesn’t fit and I guess no one wanted him for the $$.
Teague seems to be playing with confidence and a bit more poise. I think he’s giving it his all and proving he can be a rotational player when #1 he relaxes a bit and #2 when he plays with starters.
Kirk proving what real leadership, intensity and defense can do for a team. Dude is coaching every play, even from the bench instead of laughing and joking with Josh about the Kiss Kam.
The team is playing hard to gain Kirk’s respect. Hopefully it’ll flow into the playoffs.
What’s up with DNP’s for Hilton? We should at least give him some burn to evaluate his fit? His treatment this far is well…Welcome to the ATL!
WHO ARE WE GOING TO PICK UP? WE HAVE ONE ROSTER SLOT OPEN?
bigdave
February 28th, 2011
3:05 pm
@ this stage in his career Kirk being that floor general point guard i prefer would be shocking..
i wish the point handled more in our system, but im not sure it calls for it.
Fundamentals
February 28th, 2011
3:05 pm
Kirk and Teague need to call the play and run the team. Unfortunately we have 4 other PG’s on the floor at all times bucking that system. I don’t care how long it’s in our culture. LD has to demand the offense run through the floor general = the point guard.
Kirk has done a good job setting up the bigs when given the chance. Teague needs time to command their respect, but he can’t do it without touches or LD’s support.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
3:08 pm
Veteran Fan,
about this: “They usually just mail in the last game on these western trips.”
A couple of years ago, you could say this, but last year they beat Utah 105-100 on the last game West, and the year before lost by one at Denver.
That’s hardly “Mailing it in”. Perception is NOT reality.
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
3:11 pm
O’Brien, I think Josh looking away from Kirk towards Joe, started after Kirk was in the wrong place on that turnover when Josh threw a pass out of a double team that ended up in the front row. Josh knows this offense better than anyone on the team. Also Kirk was reluctant and seemed shaky in the 4th quarter during Portland’s run on offense last night.
No crying
February 28th, 2011
3:14 pm
The more I think about it, It seems that JC2 and the draft pick was what Washington really wanted, not Bibby, we forced Bibby on them to seal the deal. JC2 was never going to get time in the Hawk rotation. Bibby led us to the playoffs for the first time a couple of years ago and kudos to him for that. We suffered too many ugly losses lately and the shakeup was needed. The team was too talented to be so bad. The excuse that we need to try harder is the mark of a loser, and unacceptable. Now we just need to do go to work and get the job done. No excuses, I am not listening anymore.
At this point in time, If we are competitive in the second round this year it will be a success, (I don’t want to get my hopes up). I am tired of being embarrassed on the national stage. We need to keep developing our pride and professional work ethic to go deeper. Two games don’t make the season, but it is a first step.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
3:15 pm
Fundementals,
“What’s up with DNP’s for Hilton? We should at least give him some burn to evaluate his fit? His treatment this far is well…Welcome to the ATL!”
This tells us that Armstrong was a throw-in for the trade. It’s also telling that he was only able to get 10 MPG with as poor a team as the Wizards.
My guess is that until he gets a full grasp of the offense, we won’t see Hilton except for extreme foul trouble by our bigs.
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
3:19 pm
Fundamentals, what you’re saying goes against LD’s system. LD runs a motion offense. There is NO POINT GUARD in a motion offense. In a motion offense, all parties are considered equal. And when (like last night) Joe has a smaller defender on him (which is often since he’s 6′8), LD loves to run a high post with Josh/Joe or Al/Joe, where they’re able to lob a pass over Joe’s defender for an easy two or foul. I actually believe this is one of the most efficient plays the Hawks run.
Worldwide Clyde
February 28th, 2011
3:33 pm
Drew plays who he wants to. If Teague was out there when Portland came back he would have got yanked with the quickness.
terrell
February 28th, 2011
3:37 pm
Earth calling Joe Johnson. You copy?
K-Dogg
February 28th, 2011
3:53 pm
OK now Josh Smith has been in the L now what 8 years and he is still making mistakes in the NBA that i made in Junior High ie leaving his feet to make a pass. I love the guy and what he brings but his baskeball IQ is awful!! He is a beast in the post and has great feet and can get slower bigs in foul trouble. Why we keep letting him shot 3’s and handel the ball on fast breaks i dont understand!!! Can someone on this team or a coach with enough balls tell him to play to his strenghts and stop with the AND 1 crap!!!!
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
3:56 pm
I have zero issue with Joe in the post and a flip flop with Josh. The only concern I have is when teams start sagging off of Josh, he is going to start jacking up his jumper again, negating any advantage. He has to be a threat to drive each time.
For JC2, glad to see him get some minutes…no room for him here and everyone knows it….its not like he is going to start playing defense to get on the court….he doesn’t have a defensive mentality.
There are plenty of JC2s out there, and if his brother was better defensively (Joe), he would still be on a NBA roster as well. JC2 will be easy to replace as there are many vets that has a shoot-first mentality.
Tonight, Teague vs. Lawson….Larry can’t say its a bad matchup. Teague IMO deserves to continue to start until he proves he can’t handle it…so far, so good. He doesn’t look like he is limited in any aspect of his game. I want to see he and KH share the minutes and let the hot hand stay on the court in the 4th. Nothing better than earning your minutes in the 4th as opposed to not even being a thought (see Larry’s treatment of Teague this ENTIRE season).
My last comment on Bibby….I don’t care where he goes as long as its not here! His effort and conditioning should have turned off every ATL fan out there. The guy simply wasn’t interested in doing more things to help this team. Its easy to see when Al comes out and clearly states the improvement of the perimeter defense (AFTER 2 games!).
The Nuggets will be challenged tonight as they try to still develop their rotation. Can they fit Felton and Galinari in quick enough for them?
ant banks
February 28th, 2011
3:57 pm
the BIBSTER agrees to a buyout from washington, foregoing his ‘11-’12 salary. WOW!!
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=6167769
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
4:02 pm
Any system runs better with a PG – right? Who leads the team when the plays break down, or the opponent impedes your game plan?
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
4:07 pm
My last comment again on Bibster: what a fool to drop 6.2M and relieve the Wizards of any commitment. Talk about saving face!
Why couldn’t Sund get that accomplished? Wow, the value of this trade only gets worse the further we go….I am still glad he’s gone though.
We don’t how to use draft picks as assets anyway.
Geemack
February 28th, 2011
4:12 pm
KevinM
There is no way Bibby accepts a buyout from a playoff team. If Washington was winning Bibby would keep making his money, but the suck. So Bibby said give me my money and I will go play with the Heat.
Ken Strickland
February 28th, 2011
4:14 pm
SAUTEE-HArmstrong probably didn’t get any burn last night because Zaza was on fire.
WORLDWIDE CLYDE-While LDrew is still an upgrade over Woodson, and approaches certain things differently, he’s definitely shown some of Woodson’s bias’(a dislike/distrust of younger PG’s)and old habits( an over reliance on Bibby and making excuses).
Therefore, we can continue to expect Drew to react differently towards Teague than we will towards a vet who makes the same mistakes.
RA’MON-The motion OFF represents only a portion of what we run. We also run ISO, high low post, and pick and roll, all of which require a traditional PG. Because Bibby deferred so much to JJ and Jamal, who just happens to be our best ISO players, we started relying heavily on ISO’s. That’s why our player and ball movement decreased, and we started relying so much of jump shots.
With the DEF we’re now getting from our PG’s, we can now win without getting a lot of pts from them. Now, it’s their DEF that compensates for their OFF, rather than the other way around.
Grandad
February 28th, 2011
4:19 pm
Ra’mon
“There is NO POINT GUARD in a motion offense”
That’s not true at all.
All five players handle the ball,
all five players move,
the ball moves from side to side,
all five players are threats to score.
* But *
There must be a Quarterback.
In football if you run the “wildcat” offense;
there is still a QB. True?
Rufus1
February 28th, 2011
4:30 pm
Bibby gives up his entire salary for next year….
The Hawks didn’t get robbed….Bibby got jobbed. His poor play just cost him 6mil.
Next time he will come into camp inshape.
EmirS.
February 28th, 2011
4:32 pm
What’s so special about Troy Murphy? Why are all the teams after him?
I read an article about him a few days ago…it read that in Indiana and in New Jersey, he never seemed fully commited in practice and at times in-game.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
4:33 pm
Ken Strickland
Great post. I loved that breakdown. I have to give you a “Shout Out!”
for calling this team out for who they are, all Summer long and now, with this trade of: Addition by Subtraction.
This team looks night and day with a true PG doesn’t it.
Not so much so, because of these two games, but because it is just the right thing to do! Having a PG, that is.
I have seen Mr. Hinrich once in that GSW game and the minute he came in, hit that three pointer, and he ran several curls through the paint.
I never saw Bibby do that. Nash does it on every play, man does Nash have a motor! If Kirk gives us that type effort? He will be too tired to play 35 mins. Which, bodes well for Teague.
Rip Hamilton, Reggie Miller and Ray Allen comes to mind when I see Kirk moving without the ball. Leandro Barbosa, John Starks and Mookie also comes to mind. I noticed these are all older, veteran type players.
The new kids just want to dunk like Blake does and Josh used to do.
Shawn Kemp, Vince Carter, Grant Hill all leapers who developed a complete game to stick around the league. Hopefully, Jordan Crawford grows his game too. He is special.
The Game Has Changed
February 28th, 2011
4:42 pm
Ra’mon and Grandad. Our motion offense is different than what the Lakers run. Our point guard has more responsibility than the Lakers. In other words I think we dont have the players to treat every as equal and thats whats killing us. The motion offense that we run allows Josh to dribble and shoot at will and that is killing us. Also Jamal and Joe think they are playing street ball when they start dribbling. So in other words Joe and Jamal dribble to much and Josh shouldnt be allowed to handle the ball on the perimeterl. When he shoots from the perimeter that leaves Al to rebound by himself and thats why we are last in the league in second chance points.
Grandad
February 28th, 2011
4:42 pm
Mary Ellen,
Josh High & Joe Low ( Hi / Lo = best play in basketball )
*[it take away all help]
back to Josh & Joe;
Josh is a beautiful passer & Joe has the best post-moves [footwork]
on the team. On the flip side Joe is as soft as Andy Dick’s butt
(or so they say). “I’m glad I’m not dyslexic” !
It is also a way to get Joe inside and hopefully to the FT line.
IMHO a great option.
cp
February 28th, 2011
4:51 pm
LD has to do a better job of pulling guys when they are struggling. He tends to give the vets more rope and it hurts the team at time. I hope Teague doesn’t get buried on the bench again but I wont be shocked if it happens……..Tonight should be a fun game….No Jamal at the point but I’m sure we will see a lot of that too
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
4:54 pm
Power rankings: Wow, Hawks have dropped down to 13, which I believe is their lowest ranking this year.
http://www.nba.com/2011/news/powerrankings/02/28/week18/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt1
Grandad
February 28th, 2011
4:54 pm
The Game Has Changed
The Lakers run the “Triangle”
completely different concept.
Hawks motion;
alot of called plays.
Joe & Jamal pounding the ball;
Iso ! No ?
Josh ends up with the ball @ the end of shot clock
and like Barkley said
“If you don’t want him to shoot, why pass him the ball” ?
Or was it Weber ?
Last I checked Josh was shooting higher % from “3″ than Joe.
* + *
Since KH has arrived Josh seemingly…???
has been attacking the rim more.
The Game Has Changed
February 28th, 2011
4:54 pm
Joe Johnson has a lot of talent but he is about 25lbs overweight. Do yall realize how much better the Hawks would be if Crawford and Horford ran the pick and roll. They both can shoot the mid range and Jamal is so tricky with the ball he would blow by anybody.
Veteran Fan
February 28th, 2011
4:58 pm
Sautee, appreciate your point, have been watching too many years! Hope you are right as I will be there tonight and hope they play like last night! Wow, even saw JJ get a couple of rebounds and Josh take it to the hole! I have argued for a Josh for Love trade and still hope they consider it in the off season as Love has so much more basketball sense than Josh, but I hope they prove me wrong and I will come out and support them!
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
5:10 pm
KenS, if this is the 2nd game in which we’ve seen a true PG play in LD’s offense, how can we say that the PG is important in the half court offense? The truth is LD may have to go back into the office and add some wrinkles for the game plans now that he has a pg who can drive the lane. But on last night, Hinrich was shaky majority of the game (not to mention his +/- was -11). While he doesn’t know the offense, he still had 4 turnovers compared to 1 assist. So I can understand why Joe seemed like a better option to bring the ball up in the last 3 minutes of the game. Jamal and Kirk were having problems with the bigger back court of Portland.
By the way, isn’t it funny the one person who had no turnovers last night was Teague? Teague will be a player who stats won’t always reflect how much of a positive impact he had on the game. So right now my vote is for starting Teague until he loses the position.
JObJO
February 28th, 2011
5:11 pm
one word.
Troy Murphy
Melvin
February 28th, 2011
5:14 pm
Corey Brewer is a guy who the Hawks should really consider adding to the roster after the Knicks buy him out…. Tell Horford to put in a good word for him….
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
5:14 pm
Bibby signs with Heat, per ESPN.
As bad as Bibby is, the Heat’s current point guards are so awful that Bibby has a legit shot at starting for them. And considering how iso-heavy they are, Bibby’s tendency to dump the ball to a teammate and camp out on the 3 point line will blend in perfectly with what they already do.
Melvin
February 28th, 2011
5:15 pm
Marc Stein: Just filed to ESPN.com: Sources say we’re about to have a surprising late addition to the buyout market: New York is buying out Corey Brewer Twitter
Dept. of Unintended Irony
February 28th, 2011
5:17 pm
“one word.”
“Troy Murphy”
enough said.
Sautee,
February 28th, 2011
5:18 pm
Enter your comments here
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
5:19 pm
Who’s My Grand-Daddy?
How’s my “chunky monkey” doing? Great posts from G-Dad. He was a Coach, so he really knows his stuff about that motion offense.
I see you like the trade. I only saw that GSW game out west. I got me a life now, so I’m not Sund watching anymore. I’m getting out and doing stuff. I’ll be at that Chicago Game Live though. When are you taking me out to a game Poppie? My husband said ok, only because he knows how much I love you. LOL
Let’s Go Hawks!
____________________________
I never heard Kevin Love was being shopped. Why would the TWolves want to lose him? He is terrific for that organization. Would you trade Kevin Love for Josh Smith? I wouldn’t.
_________________________
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
5:20 pm
Melvin,
I’d LOVE to have Corey Brewer. Cut Etan if you must.
I’d be hugely surprised if it happened though.
ILL-Logical
February 28th, 2011
5:23 pm
The news that there is serious interest in buying out the ASG gives some hope that the long nightmare may be over. No matter if there is a prolonged lockout, the possibility that a more well heeled and motivated ownership structure will replace the current group and hopefully makes some critical changes from top to bottom-sorry Dominique but your days as a “broadcaster” may be nimbered- gives Hawks’ fans something to really cheer about.
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
5:24 pm
Doesn’t Corey Brewer pretty much do the same thing as Damien?
I wouldn’t be opposed to his signing — it’s slim pickins this time of year anyway — but I would ideally rather have someone who isn’t so offensively challenged. Preferably someone who can get to the line and convert once he gets there.
lewis
February 28th, 2011
5:27 pm
there’s no way we could pay brewer
Najeh Davenpoop
February 28th, 2011
5:29 pm
“What’s so special about Troy Murphy? Why are all the teams after him?”
He can hit 3’s and crash the boards, which is a perfect combination for teams that want to stretch the floor. As a role player, he is perfect for any iso-heavy team, and he’d even fit in fine on a team like Boston that has a point guard who can set him up.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
5:30 pm
Troy Murphy!
He will be that hot-ticket this week! Who is he, asks Emir?
Aaaah … He is only about 20 pts 11-12 rebs per nite @ 6′11″, aah … He lines up real nice at center. IDK a thing about his defense? A rebounding machine though and fantastic post moves, has jumper with long range.
I think Grand-Daddy would call that a stretch 4/5. LOL!
We ain’t getting him though. He gonna want that easy ring team – A Contender. He is past his prime now.
NYC, Magic, Heat, Dallas – all the movers and shakers are lined up for this rare talent. Troy Murphy.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
5:30 pm
Najeh,
IMO Brewer has a lot more lateral quickness than Damien. I could see him giving opponents the kind of trouble Childress did with his length. He is turnover prone, however.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
5:42 pm
Peach Turnover!
We don’t need another turnover machine on this team. We actually lead the NBA last year in fewest turns per game. I would rather see us land a nother BIG! We don’t need any more 6′3″ ers.
Our length is our strength. We can’t afford Troy straight up, but he may take less to play for a contender at this stage of his career.
But, like Chris Rock said when Janet jackson dated Jermaine Dupree.
“Fellas! This means … We all had a chance.” I would tickle the luxury tax for Troy Murphy on a Hawks team.
Najeh, Grand-Daddy, Northcyde:
Hey yall, What would it take for Sund to get in on Troy Murphy?
I mean, aren’t Boston, Miami and Orlando cash – maxed too?
How much can those teams really pay him? Unless it’s NYC.
ag
February 28th, 2011
5:43 pm
Bibby just bought out his contract! Why would he not do that for us? We need to get Troy Murphy before Boston or Miami gets him. Bibby may go to Miami.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
5:44 pm
Y’all watch the sky in the metro area. That was a nasty line of storms coming right atcha’.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
5:50 pm
drmaryb,
“We don’t need any more 6′3″ ers.”
“Our length is our strength.”
FYI – Brewer is 6′ 9″
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
5:54 pm
Sautee
WOW! Corey Brewer 6′9″ damn … He is as tall as Marvin. Does he play SF? We need defense and offense there to plant Marvin to the bench for stretches. If we can put a true defensive team out there? We will finally have an identity. Who are we now? What type of team are we?
terrell
February 28th, 2011
5:55 pm
Sure does feel good not letting every pg have career nights against us.
Grandad
February 28th, 2011
6:02 pm
* (1) Troy Murphy:
Not past his prime…firmly in his prime.
Career 40% “3″ pt shooter & double digit rebounder.
Average defender = 6 fouls v D.Howard.
6-11, 260.
Has always played hard and been a good teammate !
High basketball IQ.
* (2) Corey Brewer:
MVP (tourney) Nat Champ UF Gators **[2nd]
great defender
Greater Teammate
If we could buy out Marv & sign CB / life would be wonderful.
*[my last statement contained a bit of hyperbole]
mediocre shooter
Plays with tremendous energy and high motor.
Honestly and with passion!::
We need a —-Rebounder—-!
Another one.
Help wanted;
One Rebounder
Must be a Bad Ass
Eats Rebounds for Breakfast, Dinner, and Supper.
Lives for one purpose…..to Rebound.
Should have a poster of Rodman on his ceiling.
If you named your 1st born Oakley; please apply.
ATL Hawks, contact LD not [Sund/ASG]
*(will fly you over from France if need be)
Grandad
February 28th, 2011
6:12 pm
Mary Ellen,
Baby boy playing career finis`.
We shall have our date soon.
Mrs G-dad says okay as well.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
6:24 pm
I would love to have CB here. He plays defense and is 6′9″.
Sorry Troy, you Sir, are not past your prime. Do we even have a chance at either player. I heard we were looking at Rasul Butler? Who is he?
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
6:28 pm
Grandad,
“Help wanted;
One Rebounder
Must be a Bad Ass”
Wasn’t that supposed to be Etan?
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
6:36 pm
The Trigger – Has no Heart!
LOL. Mr. Riles was shopping Mike Miller hard eh? No takers! How much are they paying this guy? And would they trade him here for Marvin, straight up?
Seriously, Marvin does rebound and play nice defense.
Can Miller do that, if his shot’s not falling? IDK. To Marvin’s credit, he has played better this year. See Drew. Also, perhaps a true PG will now help him get better shots and FT’s. Maybe, we’ve all been to hard on him and Coach.
Man, Drew is getting what Woodson never had. IDK who’s to blame for Woodson, not having that PG. There is probably enough blame to go around, but a real GM makes his own moves and sells it to the owners.
But, you have got to give the Coach a balanced roster at minimum effort. You can not win without the players.
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
6:36 pm
Yes, Troy Murphy…….difference maker….the current leader of NBA players who have yet to play in a playoff game….remember JC1?..
http://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-hawks/crawford-ready-to-break-465461.html
Murphy gets that accolade as he can’t be counted on IMO, despite the double-double numbers.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
6:44 pm
drmaryb,
Woody made his own PG bed when he nixed getting CP3 or DWill.
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
6:51 pm
If the Hawks could, adding Brewer would REALLY go towards adding that identity of being defensive and scrappy. I always thought Brewer could (defensively) become the newer mode of my all time favorite player, Scottie Pippen. With his quickness and lateral movements, Brewer is able to guard 1-3 positions. I want to start seeing the Hawks have some 80-76 games. The Hawks have an extra roster spot, but would probably have to buy out Etan to add someone else to the roster. I still wish the Pistons would buy out Ben Wallace, lol. But since that’s not happening, Brewer is the best available player for the Hawks.
slimjr
February 28th, 2011
6:52 pm
Bibby agrees to a Wizard buyout.Gives up 6.2 million next year to go to South Beach!!!! Good for you Mike!!!!………………………………..Can you take Marvin with ya???
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
6:52 pm
Ramon,
Big Freakin’ Co-Sign.
JObJO
February 28th, 2011
6:53 pm
do the Hawks have a spot for Bibby if he wants to come back here?
or not? I say not. let him go to spurs while parker is hurt.
slimjr
February 28th, 2011
6:54 pm
another classic large lead in the third lost in the 4th quarter meltdown…..When will this end?????In April, at the end of the season??
slimjr
February 28th, 2011
6:55 pm
Mike is done with Atlanta!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He’s going to South Beach and win a Championship…………
Jae Evolution
February 28th, 2011
6:56 pm
If I had the choice between Bibby or Brewer, I choose Brewer easily, another Kirk Hinrich type defender who never gives up on a play and ALWAYS hustles, I put Brewer at the top of the list of people we can acquire.
slimjr
February 28th, 2011
6:57 pm
“Woody made his own PG bed when he nixed getting CP3 or DWill.”
In the famous words of FRED G. Sanford: “You Big Dummy!”
lewis
February 28th, 2011
6:58 pm
Btw, Hinrich’s game winning charge? How has no one mentioned how “heady” that was
RaJaH
February 28th, 2011
7:01 pm
So Bibby is giving away 6 million with a huge chance of a lockout next season…Guess he’s finally serious about chasing that title the league stole from him!
EmirS.
February 28th, 2011
7:02 pm
“Should have a poster of Rodman on his ceiling.
If you named your 1st born Oakley; please apply.”
Lol, GENIUS!
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
7:02 pm
I’m surprised Bibby waived his salary for next year. $6.2 mil is alot of money for him to give up, because at his age, and with his play declining, and a new CBA, I dont think he will make that money back next year.
From hoopshype;
Brian Windhorst: With several teams chasing Bibby (esp. Portland) it wouldn’t be a surprise if Heat promised Bibby he’ll eventually be the starter at PG. Twitter.
How bad is Miami’s PG situation that Bibby might be the starter?
Chris Tomasson: One agent called it “crazy” Mike Bibby giving up all $6.2 million salary for next year. Said he’s a minimum player so would lose $5 mil. Twitter.
Well, it looks like Rick is off the hook for next year
slimjr
February 28th, 2011
7:05 pm
ESPN Confirmed Bibby headed to South Beach about 7 mins ago…………………Gave up over 6m Large………………..
KevinM
February 28th, 2011
7:06 pm
Bibster planning ahead in case of a lockout? I don’t see a lockout lasting that long. The majority of the players don’t prepare for locking out and I expect to see teams play at some point next season.
Bibster just has an ego that can’t handle coming off the bench IMO.
EmirS.
February 28th, 2011
7:08 pm
I’m looking at Troy Murphys Season/Career Stats.
It’s like he has a few good seasons in rebounding and PPG, but then drops off. His games played are not consistent. Im guessing injuries? Is he injury prone?
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
7:20 pm
Bibby is at the point of his career (the twilight) like a lot of players, who have made their money, and now realize not being called a champion will be the difference between a respectable career and a great career.
The Truth
February 28th, 2011
7:20 pm
Partying Bibby would be the perfect fit in South Beach. His brother -in-law (Eddie House) however, would be Bibby’s wife eyes and ears. So Bibby, be careful with the hanky panky. With 4 kids, child support and alimony would set you back a bit (@ your age)
superiorblogman
February 28th, 2011
7:33 pm
Joe Johnson got traded his rookie season and see how he turned out. I would not be surprised if Jordan Crawford’s numbers are not going to be really good before his 1st contract is up, like 15 pts, 3 rebs, 3 assists.
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
7:35 pm
LOL This is perfect, J-Quick and Hinrich will eat bibby alive.
When he was the starting PG I thought our SCHEME defensively was why bibby was always getting switched up on biggs etc. but the exact same thing happend to him in Washington! Multiple times! smh.
He is too prideful, I think Teague wants some getback.
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
7:38 pm
Bibby is selfish. He KNOWS he should have voulntarily requested a buyout from ATL intead of putting us through that nonsese and making our defense look scrubbish in the playoffs. I’m just sayin’
Ken Strickland
February 28th, 2011
7:39 pm
DRMARYB-What’s up young lady? I’m really excited again about the Hawks. All we have to overcome now to win a gm is the opposition. Another positive is we only have one DEF liability on the team(Jamal), and even he’s played better DEF now that he’s playing more SG.
I don’t want to sound like I’m blaming Bibby, because I’m not. If anything, he was a victim of age, wear and tear, and being forced to play too many mins and assuming more responsibility than he could handle. It looks as if it all might work out, with him signing with Miami. He’ll likely provide what they were hoping to get from MMiller, and what they’re not getting from their PG’s.
With DWade and Lebron, they don’t need a PG that penetrates and creates, just one that makes clutch jump shots.
Melvin
February 28th, 2011
7:40 pm
Bibby going to the Heat. So what!!!! His time came and gone in the ATL. I wish him the best but the Hawks have move on. So should us Hawks fans….
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
7:44 pm
Ra’mon
You got me salivating @ CBrewer. He sounds like Mookie’s ole’ running mate: Stacy “Plastic Man” Augmon. Not great offensively but was smothering on defense. A wet blanket fo’ reel.
I like the idea of stock-piling defensive players since we can’t get a true Big, right now. CB hands down over Troy Murphy….waite’! We the Hawks, we’ll prolly get Rasul Butler. Uggh!
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
7:50 pm
Can Mike run with them thoroughbreds in So. Beach?
I hope he doesn’t lumber down the court and park @ the 3 Pt Line. Maybe, Mike Miller will give Bibby a loan? Or take a buy out, (he has been awful for the Heat.
northcyde
February 28th, 2011
7:51 pm
Murphy has always been inconsistent as a big man. But what he represents, is an upgrade over Josh Powell. And anytime we can upgrade what is a mediocre bench overall, it’s a good thing.
If anything, maybe he can be that tough nosed rebounder off the bench that we consistently need. This team desperately needs that from people other than Smith or Horford.
As for Bibby, no surprise there. He gets to play one one of the most high profile teams in the league, possibly go deep into the playoffs one last time AND party in South Beach?
As many late game shots that Bibby has made for us the past 3 years, don’t think that he doesn’t have a few more in him.
Here’s a question . . . how much money did Bibby get in the buyout? I’m not sure how those rules work. Does Washington have to pay off a certain percentage of the money remaining on his contract, in order for the buyout to take place? If so, doesn’t that mean he’ll get part of that 6 mill from Washington anyway?
Bibby stupid for doing this? I don’t think so. May have been the best move of his career, when it’s all said and done.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
7:53 pm
drmaryb,
Augmon is actually a good comparison for Brewer:
Defensive minded. Played on a Nat’l. Champ. Uses length very well. Limited offensively.
Ra'mon
February 28th, 2011
8:07 pm
Drmaryb, Brewer is a carbon copy of Augmon, now that you mentioned it. Runs like a deer, and jumps like a pogo stick. Someone said Childress. But he’s WAY more athletic than Childress ever was. I guess people forget all of the dunks Childress used to miss. But the East (thanks to Boston trading Perkins) have become a wings league (Boston, Miami, New York). The Hawks regains the title of being one of the most athletic teams in the league.
drmaryb (*_*)
February 28th, 2011
8:08 pm
NorthCyde
The Wizards picked up his balance on this season (what 32 games left?).
Bibby gave back 2011-2012 salary of 6.2M today, in exchange for his freedom. Unlike, Rip Hamilton, who chose to sit on Detroit’s bench for the next two years (that’s 24 months for prison Mike – fedarale’) @ a guaranteed contract amount of 25M! Rip ain’t giving back nane’ dime.
This has to put Joe Dumar’s on the “Fallen From Grace Wall” at the HOF:
He now ranks along-side Isaiah Thomas for “Dunce of The Decade”!
Talk about crazy? Dumars drafted Darko Milicic over Melo.
Fired Larry Brown after winning a Title with – that team?
(Aye! ASG! Detroit was an aberration – Not a model to emulate.
Dumars, traded Big-Shot Billups for Allen Iverson (Practice? and a dysfunfuntional alcoholic), to boot. Dumars has NEVER recovered.
So now, Dumars treats Rip Hamilton like “hot garbage”? And, Bibby thinks he was disrespected? He didn’t know his lame ass was being traded? Come on Mike, look at your stats and read Ken’s posts – if, you ain’t know, your game is NOT tite like Kobe on game nite.
Peace … Bibby.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
8:15 pm
Ramon,
I was the one mentioning Chills, but only in the comparison of their length bothering opponents passing lanes. I’d take Brewer over Chills all day and every day.
But I’m afraid it’s just a pipe dream. I don’t see the ASKG spending what it would take (into low luxury tax land). Surely there’s another contender with more headroom, or deeper pockets than we have. Too bad. I’d love to start him at SF (defense!!!!) and let Marvin come off the bench.
O'Brien
February 28th, 2011
8:16 pm
northcyde,
It looks like Bibby got paid his full salary this year, but he basically voided his contract for next year.
And although Bibby has big shots left in him, I think LeBron, Wade, and even Eddie House will be the ones taking the last shot.
ag
February 28th, 2011
8:21 pm
I think Bibby will do okay in South Beach. With that team, he is a perfect fit. I also have been a big advocate for Teague. I read because we gave up so much we should start Kirk..NOT. Don’t rock the boat, keep starting Teague because he really does not need much offense playing with the starters. Also, because he is not a good finisher, Josh and Al are loving stuffing their stats with O rebounds and dunks of Teague misses!
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
8:26 pm
^Co-Sign!
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
8:28 pm
Interesting blog on Brewer’s lack of offense. Wouldn’t bother me, since we have enough scorers without needing a lot from him. He’d just have to answer to Horford (his former housemate in Gainesville) if he shot too often.
http://offthedribble.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/02/24/corey-brewer-isnt-answer-for-knicks-need-for-wing-depth/?src=twrhp
Booo!
February 28th, 2011
8:29 pm
*Agreeing with AG
MC, Tell Rick your blog ppl want him to sign Corey Brewer! I’m serious, I want to hear back from you on this. Rick needs to earn his Pesos.
Sautee
February 28th, 2011
8:48 pm
new blog up
allofus
February 28th, 2011
10:12 pm
Watch the game here MyP2P.eu