Atlanta Hawks: Hawks 106, Nets 101
Newark, N.J.–Larry Drew has been pretty conservative with his starters’ minutes this season. Until tonight, when he suddenly decided to ride them and go all out to beat the Nets. The absence of Marvin Williams explains some of that but I thought the bench guys had OK stints in the first half, only to never be seen again (except for Zaza Pachulia).
- “Going into halftime, I was going to come out and see what happened and go off feel,” Drew said. “Once New Jersey made that run, I made a decision to ride the starters. I didn’t want to lose momentum. I went with feel. I kind of went with my gut.”
- “I understand in this short season, every game is important for us,” Joe Johnson said. “I’m willing to do whatever L.D. wants. We talked, and he understands my mindset. He knows what I’m willing to do what I have to as a player to help this team get better.”
- “He took me out in the fourth for about 20 seconds at the start of the fourth quarter and then put me right back in, and I was like, ‘OK,’” Al Horford said. “It was an important win. It’s the fist 10 games, and [at] 7-3 we are in a good position.”
- Neither Jeff Teague nor Johnson came off the floor in the second half and Josh Smith sat for just 52 seconds. “I didn’t even notice it,” Teague said. “I was just playing.”
- The Nets are not going to be mistaken for a good defensive team, but this game showed how many offensive threats the Hawks present when they share the ball.
- The Nets had to worry about Joe’s runners, Al’s pick-and-pop (even if he didn’t square up on a couple of them), Josh’s athletic drives, and Teague’s dribble penetration. And then there was Vladmir Radmanovic waiting in the corner ready to make a 3 when the Nets reacted to all of that.
- “I was wide open,” Vlad Rad said. “Not like [just] open. I was by myself and looking to see if somebody was coming. It was amazing. I think me knocking down shots is going to help [teammates] be more open and not have the double teams coming. That’s the kind of relationship we are trying to build. We depend on each other. I’m glad they found me today. Some nights I am going to have a lot of shots, some nights probably not. As long as we are winning, I’m OK. ”
- Smith (26 points on 14 shots, six rebounds, three steals) filled up the box score again. He also took (and made) jump shots. But he also attacked the rim and earned 11 free-throw attempts. “I’m starting off aggressive, setting the tempo early and getting into the flow of the offense,” Josh said.
- “He’s taking open shots and not worrying about what people say,”Teague said. “He’s driving to the basket and being aggressive. When he’s like that, we are at our best.”
- “He’s doing a better job mixing up his shots and not just settling,” Drew said of Josh. “He’s driving, he’s taking the mid-range shots. He’s making really good decisions off the dribble.”
- Another strong game from Teague, who got to the basket and finished, was 3 for 3 on 3-pointers, and distributed the ball well. Teague also was able to use the threat of doing all of those things to shake free and score in the 5-10 foot range. If his 3-point shooting holds up over the long term, it would provide yet another scoring threat for the Hawks.
- Joe turned back the Nets with some of those familiar fadeaway Js against tight D. Each one deflated the Nets, who saw their best efforts negated by Joe’s size advantage and scoring talent. “It was nice to see Joe get in that groove late in the fourth quarter and knock down some big jump shots to stop the bleeding,” Josh said.
- Apparently the Nets didn’t pay attention to their scouting report. There were a few times when they seemed to be very concerned about Jannero Pargo shooting but not so worried about Vlad Rad.
- “I don’t understand how he’s the best shooter on the floor and he always seems to get wide open,” Joe said. “I don’t know what the defense is thinking. Leave me wide open sometimes. I don’t undestand how he gets wide open looks, especially with last game the way he shot it.”
- Again, I think part of the reason for that is because the Hawks have so many scoring options when they have good player and ball movement (and, in those cases like tonight when Joe is feeling it, even when they don’t). Better defensive teams will be able to do a better job solving that puzzle in the playoffs but, as you saw with the Bulls the other night, even elite defensive teams can have their hands full with the Hawks (especially if the Hawks also get transition scores).
- The Hawks got lax on their closeouts when the Nets came back (tired legs?), but New Jersey does have an elite point guard to set up a bunch of shooters.
- “To be perfectly honest, I expected it to be a close ball game,” Drew said. “This New Jersey team is a very scrappy team. Avery has done a magnificent job, particularly because they are depleted with injuries. They are still playing hard, still competing. They have always played us well. They have guys who can hit shots. They are physical on the glass.”
- After playing their sixth game in eight days, and with the starters putting in work tonight, the Hawks play a tough game at Indy Wednesday before playing host to Charlotte the next night.
- “We’ll take advantage of tomorrow, get a little time off, rest our legs,” Joe said.
- “We should be all right if everybody takes care of their body,” Josh said. “The bench guys are definitely going to come and help.”
- Told that he should be fine because he’s a young guy, Teague smiled: “I guess. I’m still human.”
Michael Cunningham, Hawks beat
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281 comments Add your comment
Macaroni Tony
January 9th, 2012
11:49 pm
first
Jay
January 9th, 2012
11:53 pm
First
FreshFromATL
January 9th, 2012
11:54 pm
Just win baby!
Jay
January 9th, 2012
11:54 pm
Not even close
Ryan
January 9th, 2012
11:55 pm
JT is playing great, exactly what this team needed. Now having to worry about so many different dynamics, it is extremely hard to guard the hawks.
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 9th, 2012
11:59 pm
Joe turned back the Nets with some of those familiar fadeaway Js against tight D. Each one deflated the Nets, who saw their best efforts negated by Joe’s size advantage and scoring talent.
“I was wide open,” Vlad Rad said. “Not like [just] open. I was by myself and looking to see if somebody was coming. It was amazing. I think me knocking down shots is going to help [teammates] be more open and not have the double teams coming. That’s the kind of relationship we are trying to build. We depend on each other. I’m glad they found me today. Some nights I am going to have a lot of shots, some nights probably not. As long as we are winning, I’m OK. ”
Now what’s Marvin’s excuse? Oh wait. 6′10 Vlad > 6′8 marvin #SizeAdvantage #ToughHawks #BigHawks
Ryan
January 10th, 2012
12:04 am
gawd I wish SLB would go away.
Tom
January 10th, 2012
12:05 am
this team could be dangerous when they get Hinrich back.
SteveW
January 10th, 2012
12:10 am
We have caught a break playing the Nets 3 times with Lopez hurt. He hurts us on occasion, and gives them another scoring option.
But then they caught a break catching us with Hinrich and Marvin out, and TMac evidently getting rested. Rest TMac as much as needed. We’re going to need him in the playoffs
SteveW
January 10th, 2012
12:15 am
We caught the Heat w/o LeBron and Wade also – some break. We did better with them in the lineup.
This season is just weird because of the lockout. A guy is out for a week, and all of a sudden he’s missed 5 or 6 games instead of 3. No practice times for weeks on end, and that after a very short training camp as well.
Good to see Teague doing so well. The stat I keep checking on him are the Turnovers. He’s one of the best PG’s in the NBA right now at not turning the ball over.
SteveW
January 10th, 2012
12:17 am
I thought Marvin was 6-10 after the back surgery?
SteveW
January 10th, 2012
12:21 am
I’ll be interested to see how Al plays Hibbert on Wednesday. Or maybe LD will break out the big lineup. Hibbert keeps improving little by little. Decent C right now. If we don’t go big, I’m not sure how Vlad Rad will do against Granger.
The Pacers SG – George?, looks like he’s going to be a player in a year or two. I think he’s only 21, but doing pretty well.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
12:41 am
Boxing Out !
I do not know how to correct it with our present personel;
and with Uncle Larry at the helm.
LD is doing a fine job [X's and O's] but he is not a hard ass
with the troops.
(sometimes not a bad thing)
Tonight:
NJ had 10 offensive boards
*[we had 9 against them]
However;
we were rebounded overall by seven 40 – 33.
It’s the 10 off. boards we surrendered.
I could not find the stat but I’m certain those ten off. boards by NJ
translated into at least 14 to 16 points.
It’s very disheartening to play suffocating defense for 20+ seconds
then give up a hoop on a rebound.
I do not wish to pick on anyone but yawl can watch for yourself
and see who’s leaking out [snow birding / cherry picking].
Plus the ones who stay inside do not always put a body on a man !
(It’s as if they do not want the opponents perspiration on their jersey)
This is one area, w/o pulling off a trade that could immensely help.
Jody
January 10th, 2012
12:48 am
I thought it was poor coaching tonight riding the starters the entire 2nd half. Some fresh legs could of helped when things got stagnant and LD could easily yank the backups if the game got too close. It will be important come playoff time for the starters to not log too many minutes early in the season.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
12:56 am
Kudos ….. to Ken Strickland !
He told us for three years that having a pg
that could stop dribble penetration and be a defensive force
would be more valuable than a shot-blocker.
He told us of the switching defense used to compensate
for Bibby’s diminished foot speed.
How teams would exploit Bibby and he was the basis
for our foundering defense.
Now, after Ken S has called for two years, Teaguer has shown
Ken Strickland to be prophetic.
Teague has become what many of us knew or hoped he could become.
A Defensive Stalwart.
A great big ” Huzzah ” for Teaguer !
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
1:00 am
Bad minutes management, bad zone defense and rebounding in the second half, bad offense in the final minutes when burning clock became a bigger priority than getting quality shots.
The Hawks won this game because they are more talented, not because they played better. Gotta step it up against a quality, deep Indiana team on Wednesday.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
1:09 am
Teague is currently 7th among starting point guards in assist/turnover ratio, 3rd among starting point guards in steals, and 3rd among starting point guards in defensive rating. He is still a work in progress at times figuring out when to attack, when to defer, and when to shoot, but he is getting the job done on both ends of the floor.
Buddy Grizzard
January 10th, 2012
1:26 am
HOW HARD IS IT TO GOOGLE JANERO PARGO???!!!!!!
mykhalc
January 10th, 2012
1:35 am
^^^^^ i know….too funny!!!LMAO
hittman jamillion
January 10th, 2012
1:36 am
Grand dad lay off the meds. I wouldnt trade you for bargiani.
David stern take your fake NY ass BACK home. If you don’t like Atlanta leave,to not like the team is one thing,but to talk about the city’s another. Let me guess these pretty women in Atlanta must won’t give you any play,or is it the men u desire in tight pants.
FreshFromATL
January 10th, 2012
1:40 am
^^^Yea, I must admit, that was a pretty funny story form MC, LMAO.
hittman jamillion
January 10th, 2012
1:43 am
Yeah i dig those numbers on teague
They the realdeal
Wit maturation next year he’ll be our rose/rondo
All we need now is DH
JaeEvolution
January 10th, 2012
1:52 am
Would love to see Timofey Mozgof here, people sleep on him but he is pretty much everything we want Zaza to be.
Legit 7 feet
Big body, good hands
Block shots, mobile
Finishes around rim with dunks, not brick layups
Would be the most afforable big in a trade because his contract is still low and he is still young so we could keep him for along time and watch him continue to develop.
Prison Mike
January 10th, 2012
1:56 am
About the Nets: How can they trade their ‘12 first round pick when they traded their previous first rounder to the Jazz. Did the new CBA allow teams to trade back to back picks?
Hate it for Marv but Vlads dead eye shooting is just what the starting unit needs. Once he gets started, he’s unconscious. Would love to acquire a vet big for Marvin.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
2:35 am
hittman jamillion
Thanks h j
-the other mad hatter did not have as good a nite as our Hawks-
Can’t lay off the meds … they are what’s keepin’ me around, hey hey.
I should have figured out that was you earlier & sooner ? LL right ?
Evenin’ to you & yours !
Rav
January 10th, 2012
2:38 am
Why is T-Mac playing only 8 minutes the last games? Is this because of his bruised knee or what? Man, he showed he has still this spark… Let him play, he is the best man on our team, whatever you say! Period
Big Daddy
January 10th, 2012
2:58 am
It is great to watch Jeff Teague mature and evolve into what many of us thought he could be. He is still growing but the potential is there and it is showing. It is scary that Josh hit so many of his jump shots tonight. If he continues with the accuracy, that is exceptional. If it was just one of those nights and he continues to try to make it a regular thing, it could be a frustrating year for him and the fans. I still don’t know why he won’t give the ball to Teague in the backcourt and dribbles it up himself.
The team has gotten off to a good start and it is certainly something we can build on. Let’s hope it continues and when that time does come when the other team is really on, the coaches can come up with adjustments and strategy that will keep us competitive in the game. GO HAWKS!!!!
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
3:06 am
*earlier & sooner;
That’s kinda like if you hurry up you get there quicker & faster
which is both redundant and repetitive
and thats really messed up ’cause if it’s
“both” redundant “and” repetitive
it’s like being earlier, sooner, before you were ahead of time
or being redundant, repetitive, & recurring before starting.
What ?
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
3:07 am
MC, nice writeup
Marvin, VRad is digging this role and giving 14/6, very similar numbers that you give us at times….
Teague tonight was en fuego…he is def comfortable in his DWill matchups.
Get healthy Joe; a bum thumb isn’t good for anyone.
Dr. Warren
January 10th, 2012
3:46 am
Hawks make the Falcons look bad. At least they get to the 2nd round.
real talk
January 10th, 2012
4:05 am
Rav 2:38 I feel u. Not only is his min Down but so are everybody else. If LD doesn’t give the bench a chance, they will not play for him. If Mac got those min Vlad is gettin, he easily average 17, 5, 5.
clay
January 10th, 2012
4:12 am
Just think if we won both of the games last week. One when LJ or DW didn’t even play and the 19 point blown lead we had against Chicago. 9-1 through 10 games. NBA would be taking the Hawks very serious. But I guess it’s good. Let everyone keep under estimating the hawks so we can go steal some wins for the other team not being prepared.
Senator Blutarski
January 10th, 2012
4:20 am
–glad the Hawks won, but was concerned about the starters having so many minutes…no explanation especially for McGrady not playing more, unless it was to rest his knees for the long haul. At least they have a day off before Indiana. Fun team to watch and root for!–was watching the Hawks instead of the LSU-Alabama national championship game!
vava74
January 10th, 2012
6:58 am
TS,
Are you going to fill up the blog on your own?
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
7:21 am
Bye Bye Birdie!
Gone to Auburn is Brian Van Gorder – Good Writtens, Sir!
vava74
January 10th, 2012
7:26 am
I am very happy with this win.
The starters getting so many minutes is not a good sign of LD’s ability as a coach (he got out coached by Avery) but…
… I really thought that they would drop this one (and the next) in typical Hawks fashion.
Maybe LD sensed this as well and wanted to do what he thought would assure him that we would not lose it.
Good to see Josh playing with poise and confident. Hopefully he can keep it up (although I cringed at every jump shot like usual).
Strangely enough – I am not usually very forgiving on knuckleheads – but maybe, just maybe, we should simply give Josh the car keys and anoint him as the team’s leader.
Maybe he will rise to the occasion and continue to play at this level.
Buddy Grizzard
January 10th, 2012
7:36 am
“Hate it for Marv but Vlads dead eye shooting is just what the starting unit needs.”
Get this… Marvin and Teague are among the leage leaders in three point shooting percentage.
truth
January 10th, 2012
7:38 am
i dont care about regular season
Its all about the Playoffs
truth
January 10th, 2012
7:40 am
So when is Joe going to score 40+ and earn that money??
Scoring 16-17 a game is not worth 20 million..
terrell
January 10th, 2012
7:50 am
LD played Teague for an ENTIRE half?
“It’s the big one. Elizabeth, I’m coming to join you honey”.
MO
January 10th, 2012
7:50 am
“Told that he should be fine because he’s a young guy, Teague smiled: “I guess. I’m still human.”
Who ever said that needs to be shot.
terrell
January 10th, 2012
7:53 am
Teague/Joe/Josh/Vlad/Al
Kirk/TMac/Marvin/Ivan/Zaza
Pargo/GreeN
Stick with it LD..
terrell
January 10th, 2012
7:56 am
I feel like Skip Bayless supporting Tim Tebow, when it comes to Teague. “I told yall” this kid could ball from the beginning, but the haters kept hating. It’s all good though. lol
Trent
January 10th, 2012
8:02 am
“TS,
Are you going to fill up the blog on your own? ”
I wouldn’t doubt that he would. He seems to have a lot of time on his hands, and he loves creating new identities. I guess everyone needs some attention sometimes. If this keeps up though, it’s going to take a lot of scrolling to find a post that isn’t his. LOL.
On a more serious note, this was the type of win that I didn’t get very excited about. We played with a mild effort and beat a struggling team, there’s nothing to brag about. Jeff Teague was great, Joe looked like he was getting his rhythm back, and Josh made a lot of jumpers. I’m not sure I really like that last part. I don’t Josh to fall in love with the jumper more than he already has. Sure, he can shoot them when he’s open at times, but I feel like he’s going to be a lot less effective than he could be if he continues to attempt long jumpshots at a high clip. Al looks like he’s getting his game legs back, his rebounding looks like it may be picking up (hopefully). As far as everyone else on the team, they played as expected.
I’m curious to see how we do against Indiana on Wednesday. It’s going to be interesting to see who L.D. chooses to match up against Granger. I expect that game to be much more competitive than last night’s game. I still feel like we’re a superior team when compared with the Pacers, but the question is…will we play like one?
Section 303
January 10th, 2012
8:05 am
I don’t think it is that big of deal playing the starters big minutes. Just means the bench guys got rest. T-Mac, especially benefits from that.
I have never seen Josh Smith play better than these past 3 games. Good shot selection (even with jumpers!), making great decisions, and just playing hard. He keeps this up and no telling now far this team can go. Josh has always been the X factor with this team.
The game with Indy tomorrow will be a good one. Two high energy teams. Pacers always play hard.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:09 am
Paid Up!
“So when is Joe going to score 40+ and earn that money??
Scoring 16-17 a game is not worth 20 million..” -truth-
_______________
Tell that the the Celtics whose big three scored 15 points each on their way to the trophy case. Mr. Johnson does not have to earn his money – that contract is guaranteed.
Thank goodness Joe didn’t get paid and ride the bench for the next six years with real or perceived injuries like countless others: Jermaine Oneal, Eddie Curry, Alan Houston, Rashard Lewis, Gilbert Arenas … we could do this all day.
Joe has a fractured orbital bone, puts on a face mask and plays for the Suns in the play offs. Last year, Mr. Johnson has elbow surgery and returned in what, 10 days? The surgeon recommended he sit for 10 – 12 weeks. His reoccurring thumb ligament is torn now and for the past two seasons, what does he do? He put duct tape on it and neary one word of complaint. Question his quietness but, NEVER his toughness.
People really need to get over Joe’s contract, I wish someone offered me a contract, I would sign that too.
This team has really come together. IDK how much credit Sund should get for a terrific bench or how much of his success is just dumb luck? But, this is the most useful bench of my recent memory.
Never underestimate the heart of a man in a battle. You fight until the other guy stops breathing. Keep fighting Hawks, your fr-enemies are still breathing and LBJ is till thumping his chest – kill ‘Em!
Trojan
January 10th, 2012
8:13 am
MC: How is McGrady? Is he healthy?
brigadier
January 10th, 2012
8:15 am
dr maryb,
did u hear wade may have plantar problem?
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:21 am
Blog Con-Troll!
Trent and vava74, I hear you fellas.
MC! Wassup with the new blog system that was supposed to begin in January 2012? ONE user I’d per ONE verified email address is old technology these days. That simple feature shouldn’t put the AJC over the luxury tax threshold.
_____________
Arthur Blank started rolling heads last night: BVG is the first coordinator pink slipped – he gone to Auburn, back to college where he belongs. Who’s next?
I would hire a new DC who could pressure Mike Smith to step up his play or be replaced by mid season next year. What do you think Najeh, Ken Strickland?
terrell
January 10th, 2012
8:23 am
Truth, I’ll take the 17 and 6 Joe over the Iso “40 +” Joe anyday. It means we’re getting EVERYONE involved. Joe cant beat teams by himself. He’s proved that. We dont have to run Iso’s now. WE’VE GOT A PG. NOT JUST A GUY HANDING THE BALL TO JOE AND STANDING BEHIND THE 3PT LINE.(Bibbster)
terrell
January 10th, 2012
8:27 am
Mary B. One word. STEVE SPAGNUOLA.
terrell
January 10th, 2012
8:28 am
And one more word
Todd Haley on offense.
MULARKEY is just a bunch of MULARKEY!
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:34 am
Lord of The Rings!
Plantar Fascitis!
Briggs! If that is true? This is great news. Cry-Ami gloated what last pre-season? 6 Rings?
DWade and Joe are about the same age and Mr. Johnson is very cool and healthy. The style Wade plays, he won’t last forever with all his dunking and clowning. Plantar Fascitis is some nasty stuff! I hope his foot falls off. LOL!
This could be the year for a dark horse, why not us?
vava74
January 10th, 2012
8:37 am
“MC! Wassup with the new blog system that was supposed to begin in January 2012? ONE user I’d per ONE verified email address is old technology these days. That simple feature shouldn’t put the AJC over the luxury tax threshold.”
Classic suff drmaryb! Simply down right classic stuff!!!
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:41 am
Help Wanted!
“Joe cant beat teams by himself. ” -terrell-
______________
Neither could LeBron.
joe white
January 10th, 2012
8:43 am
Go hawks at 7-3 so far i will take it looks like a different team i hope they reach east finals this year.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:53 am
Pushing the Pile!
I’m still seething over the Falcons beat down, sorry for being off topic but:
4th and 1? Turner on the bench? All the Giants defense have to do is stack the box. I have no problem with going for it, but call a different play.
The QB hitting the pile side ways had not worked against the Saints and it wasn’t gonna work three times against the Giants either. You always take the 3 points in a road play off game inside the 30 yard line, or just punt the damned ball. I seriously question Mike Smith play calling. Why not throw the damned ball to Gonzalez for 10 yards and, kill that QB sneak in broad daylight. You ain’t sneaking up on anybody with that play.
___________
If the Heat have injuries to the any of the big three, Hawks should take that #1 or #2 spot. Beating the WCF winner is a bridge to cross when you get there. But, get there!
The equivalent to the busted 4 and 1 play is Larry Drew not fouling Bosh when they needed a three to tie it in regulation – YOU HAVE TO GIVE THAT FOUL! You big dummie! You had a FOUL to GIVE. I hope that doesn’t come back to haunt us later.
Ken S. How’s that for an off topic recovery?
hawks D
January 10th, 2012
9:03 am
Keep it up Hawks!
The hawks have definately shown us they can play strong on both ends of the floor!
But I will say it again and again and again—-Consistancy is EVERYTHING, its that rather simple ingredient that splits championship teams from mediocre teams..
KEEP IT GOING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Dom from Germany
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
9:10 am
Najeh,
Hard to believe this is the same Teague who Woody and LD could not find consistent PT for. Dude is averaging 12, 6 and 2, while playing good defense and not turning the ball over.
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
9:11 am
I didn’t agree with LD’s decision to ride the starters, because I thought the bench was doing ok, and in the end, the starters ended up making the game closer than it should have been.
I’m very happy for the road win, but the Nets were only averaging 86 ppg, and we let them come back.
That being said, thanks to JJ for sealing the win. We will need a big game out of him and Josh (who has had 3 solid games in a row, not counting the rebounding) on Wednesday.
Astro Joe
January 10th, 2012
9:13 am
I wonder if they found new meds for Josh? He is playing with exceptional discipline in the past few games. We can only hope the disciplined focus remains (even if the output fluctuates). LD will likely go with the big line-up against the Pacers, if for no other reason than to have Josh (instead of Vlad Rad) start out on Granger. Hibbert isn’t going to score 40, so I don’t think there is any concern with Horford defending the former Hoya. But Granger can score 40.
I still think LD was boneheaded to play the starters that many minutes. Joe has a bad thumb and Willie Green has looked like a solid SG of late. Meanwhile the “team leader” has apparently fallen and can’t get up. LOL at those quick to annoint TMac (and some wanted to offer him a contract extension after the first Heat game).
Oh and while the Nets have little talent and Lopez is injured to make matters even worse, I’m beginning to think that Avery Johnson may not quite be as good as advertised. I can’t imagine listening to his voice after each and every loss. Like nails on a blackboard.
wordsmithtom
January 10th, 2012
9:20 am
DrMary, spot on about that Qback sneak vs tossing to Tony G. He’s bigger. He’s taller. He’s a future Hall of Famer, yet we QB sneak instead of tossing it high to him for a 2 yard gain. Hell, he can fall forward for 2 yards… SMGDH
Hawks playing GOOD. Not Great, but GOOD. I’ll take GOOD at this point in a shortened season. We’ll see how this plays out. If Josh can keep up his recent play, we might just have something special like the Detroit model.
Ken Strickland
January 10th, 2012
9:30 am
DRMARYB-You do it soooo good!!!!!!!!!!!LOL.
GRANDAD-Thanks for the recognition. The thing that puzzled and angered me was the fact that both Woodson and Drew knew Bibby and Jamal were total DEF liabilities. Otherwise, they wouldn’t have done something as drastic and employ the switching DEF to cover for them. And to start Bibby and play him so many mins, considering his OFF and DEF limitations and lack of production, and the fact they had an alternative sitting on the bench begging for a chance to contribute and grow, was downright stupid.
Even if every excuse they gave for not giving Teague a chance to play was true, it certainly wouldn’t have interferred with his ability to play DEF, which we definitely needed more often than not. Starting Teague, and not having to contend with Bibby’s and Jamal’s nonexistent DEF, has caused our interior DEF and rebounding to improve. Having Radmanovic as our primary OFF threat off the bench, instead of Jamal, has contributed to the improvement of our interior DEF and rebounding.
Josh and Horford’s shotblocking has increased, because there’s no more SWITCHING DEF to take them away from the man they’re covering and put them out on the perimeter. Being able to remain with their man keeps them near the basket, which allows them to defend the lane much easier, as well as get better rebounding position. The combination of Teague and Pargo allows us to apply constant DEF pressure on the quicker faster PGs that always destroyed us when Bibby and Jamal were our PG combo.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
9:51 am
“I would hire a new DC who could pressure Mike Smith to step up his play or be replaced by mid season next year. What do you think Najeh”
I’m probably in the minority on this, but I think the Falcons’ problems on both sides of the ball are more personnel-related than coaching-related. BVG was unspectacular but the Falcons’ D was 12th in the league, which isn’t terrible. What they really need on D is a playmaker in the secondary a la Polamalu, Ed Reed, Darrelle Revis, etc. who can scare opposing QBs. Spagnuolo would be a good hire but really any 4-3 defensive coordinator who isn’t an idiot (or an anal-minded moron) would be fine.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
9:54 am
Having said that, not getting Tony G involved in the offense in that game was inexcusable on the part of the coaches.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
9:59 am
Ken S. correct me on this statement if I am wrong, but didn’t LD tell us after the 1st CHI game that they were doing the switch on the defensive end during the Bull’s comeback? That last quarter should be kept on video as to what not to do for LD and his coaches to see over and over.
I agree that switching never puts you in the best position, but have we ever gone to start using a zone like so many teams have incorporated? It might prove beneficial to us down the road, IF we can ever get any practice time on it.
For DBoard, going inside on us is a problem and last night’s stats continue to show that:
ATL NJN
Total Rebounds 33 40
Offensive Rebounds 9 10
Turnovers 10 16
Fast Break Pts: 10 5
Biggest Lead: 16 2
Points in the Paint: 30 32
PITP has been the biggest of weaknesses for us for so long. We need more of it and attack the rim. That has to come from Al and Josh because the rest of our post men don’t have such skills.
We are going to have to deal with what we have though. Sund is a ZERO / ZILCH / NADA rash decision maker.
Let me throw my regular D12 vent out there; why would you pass him onto a team he wants to join? Wouldn’t your focus just be on the best offer made, despite where it is? Why should D12’s agent have that kind of power that he can tell you where he wants to go? Not that they can’t be the frontrunners, but I’m opening up my player to the entire league and buyer beware.
terrell, on the radio yesterday, listening to 680 about the Falcons talking about what changes would be made, I said why can’t we bring in a Steve Spagnola to replace BVG and makeover our defense? Not one minute later came the news for BVG to Auburn. To me, that was an excellent first step. Don’t let the defense take this loss though; the offensive game plan was pathetic and we need changes on the ball side as well. No way Malarkey gets a pass on this one.
Someone mentioned Brian Billick; would his ego allow him to come here and open up the lanes for our guys? He won a Super Bowl without a QB at one point.
My 2 minute Falcon rant is over, back to the ‘BIG’ league.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
10:02 am
Anyone like the scheme Raheem Morris used to run in Tampa? He might be viable as well. They always seemed to swarm the ball and make big plays. Our def backfield is nothing to brag about.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
10:03 am
The Cure!
“I wonder if they found new meds for Josh?” – AJ –
___________
Yeah AJ, they did: Charles Barkley’s truth statement was a hard pill to swallow, but it did the trick. Send Charles some flowers? Josh making his haters his motivater.
__________
Ken S. I’m killing everybody today, I’ll play doctor tomorrow (my office is closed today). LOL! 680 The Fan, Buck Belue just asked, “Why is when an Atlanta team loses, the national media always blame the fans?” LOL
Najeh put up that hysterical link of Matty Ice with a jersey that said – “2 POINTS”. Sad truth is, when the Falcons stumbled into 2 points, Matt was on the side lines. A more accurate photo would be Matt Ryan wearing a Jeff Teague jersey.
___________
And, like a 2 Live Stews Caller? I’m Gone. My work here is done.
ag
January 10th, 2012
10:04 am
Is Marvin’s injury a blessing in disguise like KH was last season? I think VladRad starting may be a better option. Also, remember last season Josh was stroking the outside shop before he struggled with it at the end of the season. I also think I heard Josh praise JT0, but he said he is doing a great job while KH is out..??? Does LD plan on starting KH when he comes back? Also, will Marvin be effective off the bench?
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
10:09 am
The Decade!
Mr. Ken Strickland is a plodding WARRIOR, (ask his prostate?). This guy will kill anything standing in his way. Without Ken’s positive blog contributions, this blog would be nothing!
For that? I will “crown his azz” as the blog MVP!!!
________
Later my cohorts.
ag
January 10th, 2012
10:09 am
KevinM, I agree. I would not D12 tell me were I could trade him. I wonder is DWill regrets going to NJ now. I still don’t see the appeal for some guys wanting to go to NJ. Smith should trade D12 to the Timberwolves for Love.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
10:14 am
“A more accurate photo would be Matt Ryan wearing a Jeff Teague jersey.”
LMAO
Fundamentals
January 10th, 2012
10:16 am
LD needs to keep Teague and Marvin starting. Let Vlad play his role. Some nights its big, some its not. Just be glad we now have good role players who can all plug in at anytime when called upon. Kirk will play his role. He’s a team guy. I don’t see him gunning for Teague. I see him coming in looking to back up Teague and Joe with his minutes. Thus being an upgrade to a solid bench.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
10:17 am
I like what Vlad provides the other starters by stretching the floor, but I don’t know that he’s good enough on D to start him. It may be a better idea to keep him on the bench but let him finish games, taking the role T-Mac had during the first few games. Indiana has more firepower at the SF position than New Jersey, so that will be a better test for how well Vlad can play on both ends in the starting lineup.
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 10th, 2012
10:33 am
How hard is it to put Smith on Granger to clog lanes & get steals and block shots from the wing and funnel him to our other shotblockers protecting the rim and erasing mistakes…oh wait. Josh Smith is the only one.
—-
“”You can say what you want, but every since Josh called Al out and got in his face in the locker room Al has shut up with All that talk about playing power forward. Al should just shut up and play. He should be doing what he can to help the team not trying to disrupt it.
Im glad Josh got in his Azz”‘
———-
Um,, when did that ever happen?
Fundamentals
January 10th, 2012
10:48 am
Al should play his role, not politic for a position. Teams win, individuals play for stats and all star bids.
Rev in Tampa
January 10th, 2012
10:49 am
I am real interested in the Orlando/Portland game on Wednesday. With the exception of thier win over Houston, Orlando has only beaten scrub teams for their six wins (NJ, Charlotte, Toronto, Wash, & Sac). Their three losses are to Chi, Det, and OKC.
If Portland beats Orlando it will be a clear indication to me that Orlando will be nothing more than a better than average team. Hopefully it will broaden the range of teams under Dwight’s consideration and hasten his departure.
Dept. Of Unintended Irony
January 10th, 2012
10:51 am
“Mary B. One word. STEVE SPAGNUOLA.”
enough said – which is two words
Fundamentals
January 10th, 2012
10:55 am
Agreed, nice to see Portland playing well.
Ra'mon
January 10th, 2012
11:00 am
I don’t mind LD playing the starters so many minutes last game. Because if you remember,the starters are actually younger than the second unit. And Green,Pargo, and McGrady have been logging a lot of minutes for there legs this early in the season. So the bench players need rest just like starters so no one gets injured!
PEDRO EL GITANO
January 10th, 2012
11:01 am
vava 74:Josh Smith no es un cabeza de chorlito,de acuerdo que el no estuvo en una universidad,pero eso no es garantia de ser inteligente.Recuerden que G.w.Bush fue estudiante de una de las mas prestigiosas del mundo y actua como un retardado mental.Yo he visto a Smoove decidir y ser mas determinante que JJ.Otra cosa es que a veces los tiros no le entran,pero nos puede ayudar de muchas otras maneras.
Astro Joe
January 10th, 2012
11:02 am
KevinM, how many points did the flawed Falcons offense put up on Tampa’s swarming defense? In the first half? My sense is that Morris may be an emotional coach, we need a strong tactician. I’m not sure that rah-rah guys have a long-term impact in big boy football. And the secondary coach needs to be gone, one of the lasting terms of the Falcons 2011 season is “blown coverage”.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
11:08 am
Term Limits!
One more thing! And, put a character limit on that user ID while you’re at it. Some azzholes like to type a fkg novel in that little box. Thanks.
Too Much Good Stuff from Mr. Davenpoop, nothing new there. Thanks vava74, we All Stars got this blog under con-troll, for now! LMBAO
Hey AJC! Upgrade. (I’m really gone this time)
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 10th, 2012
11:10 am
PEDRO EL GITANO: Estoy totalmente de acuerdo
vava74
January 10th, 2012
11:11 am
Pedro,
Josh no tiene un tiro suficientemente consistente que justifique todos sus intentos desde lejos, en particular “en frio” al empezar de los partidos.
Primero Josh debería trabajar bajo la canasta y hacer su marca ahí.
Después, ya “caliente”, si, no veo porque no el no pueda tirar una que otra vez desde afuera para mantener la defensa en duda.
El año pasado Josh empezó tirando muí bien desde afuera temprano empeoró muchísimo y a la medida que transcurrió la temporada sus porcentajes bajaran dramáticamente hasta un nivel que no le permite reclamar mas tiros desde ahí.
Astro Joe
January 10th, 2012
11:13 am
Now, we just need some Falcons messages in Spanish on the Hawks blog to make everything just perfect.
vava74
January 10th, 2012
11:14 am
All that Falcons’ chatter is almost as annoying as the effects of the multiple personality disorder our TS friend suffers from…
The Truth
January 10th, 2012
11:41 am
“It’s been a smooth transition for McGrady and the Hawks, the only team that has figured out how to beat Miami this season. There is no question McGrady is motivated by his well-chronicled playoff failures, having never gotten out of the first round”
We Shall See
Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/tracy-mcgrady-baron-davis-mystery-determine-success-failure-team-ny-knicks-article-1.1003696#ixzz1j4f2fGZe
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
11:41 am
Annoyed?
And, so is saying the same damned thing every single day over and over and over and over and over and over and over. Which is what 90% of you “orators of the obvious” do
24/7! That is also mind numbing. Can yawl say something fresh and new to contribute and keep everyone on topic? I guess not.
Also, typing is spanish/Portuguese is equally ignor-anus. Even though I’m fluent in spanish and four other languages.
So, taking some Falcons TO’s from the troll ish, shouldn’t be to much of a problem, especially if you can draw parallels to our sister team.
Gearon, JR did it! It’s our turn now. (Go Falcons!)
__________
Bye.
BigTimeTECHFan
January 10th, 2012
11:46 am
I like they way the Hawks are playing.
Starters sharing the the ball, 5 people in double figures every night.
Bench has nice players, add Hinrich and they added a NBA starting PG to their bench.
Vlad was a great pick-up, not going to be their every night but sure takes Hawks to different level when he’s on.
Keep getting Ivan Minutes and he will be impact player in the playoffs. let him learn to control fouls. A lineup of Zha Zha and Ivan could be a little nasty, and upset a few plays to take them out of their game.
Joe Johnson is turning more into the player he was in Phx, teams have to fear him when he gets hot, but he also knows teams are focusing on him so he making the correct dishes.
Very nice team, they need to play hard and they can get 1 or 2 seed in east. Miami’s loaded and will be hard to beat so you want to meet them as late as possible.
Mike
January 10th, 2012
11:47 am
First of all, good job to the Hawks last night, 7-3 is a good record even you that you could be 9-1 but sometimes things happened, I guess.
Yall should look at that Angry ATL Fans video on Youtube is very funny but also tells you that we Hawks/Braves/Falcons fans is tired being look at by other people around the country as some of the worst fairweather fans(yes, there is some) in the US. I think that Hawks Ownership needs to call Otis Smith everyday and tell him that Hawks is willing to take D-12 off of his hands. Then the Hawks can be talk of the town as long they dont pull a “Miami” again.
Ken Strickland
January 10th, 2012
11:50 am
I wouldn’t get too upset over how many mins Drew played Teague. Don’t forget, if not for Hinrich’s injury during last yrs playoffs, and his preseason injury this yr, Drew would hardly be playing him at all.
It's great to see.....
January 10th, 2012
12:00 pm
Jeff Teague free!!!
vava74
January 10th, 2012
12:07 pm
drmaryB,
touchy, touchy…
I typed in spanish because Pedro addressed me direct. I have no idea why he does not type or attempt to type in english since the vast majority of the blog people does not understand him.
Tu estás a portar-te como uma gata assanhada sem razão!!! Uma coisa é fazer paralelismos entre os insucessos dos Falcons e dos Hawks e outra completamente diferente é discutir se os coordenadores dos Falcons têm que ser despedidos ou não e quem deverá substitui-los!!!!
Embrulha!
vava74
January 10th, 2012
12:08 pm
And now this was in portuguese, specially for you my friend!!
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
12:11 pm
KevinM,
It’s hard to get a good read on Raheem Morris in Tampa, because it appears the team quit on him.
I don’t know if all these guys are 4-3, but some of the names being mentioned are Del Rio, Spagnola, and Mike Nolan.
Najeh,
I think the problem is both personnel and scheme.
Hawks Str8Talk
January 10th, 2012
12:16 pm
Happy that Drew learned from the first Bulls game that sometimes you have to ride your starters to get a W. Not sure you needed to do that vs. the Nets, but against the elite teams – starters may have to play the whole half. Let’s hope he figures out how to do that vs. the right teams.
Dukester
January 10th, 2012
12:26 pm
Dr Mary B has done it again. Im so sick of the Joe contract issue. He is who he is. Love him or leave him. Knowing what I know Im glad the hawks resigned Joe. Its the business of basketball at that time thats why they had the labor issues. I rather have him than he be playing with Chicago!! Great job Mary. Even though we disagree on needing Dalembert to replace Zaza I still have a cyber crush on you:)
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
8:09 am
Paid Up!
“So when is Joe going to score 40+ and earn that money??
Scoring 16-17 a game is not worth 20 million..” -truth-
_______________
Tell that the the Celtics whose big three scored 15 points each on their way to the trophy case. Mr. Johnson does not have to earn his money – that contract is guaranteed.
Thank goodness Joe didn’t get paid and ride the bench for the next six years with real or perceived injuries like countless others: Jermaine Oneal, Eddie Curry, Alan Houston, Rashard Lewis, Gilbert Arenas … we could do this all day.
Joe has a fractured orbital bone, puts on a face mask and plays for the Suns in the play offs. Last year, Mr. Johnson has elbow surgery and returned in what, 10 days? The surgeon recommended he sit for 10 – 12 weeks. His reoccurring thumb ligament is torn now and for the past two seasons, what does he do? He put duct tape on it and neary one word of complaint. Question his quietness but, NEVER his toughness.
People really need to get over Joe’s contract, I wish someone offered me a contract, I would sign that too
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
12:32 pm
KevinM,
If I’m Brian Billick, I am taking the Falcons OC job if it is available. Why? With all these openings, have you ever heard one team say they are going to interview Billick? Jacksonville and Miami is going to interview Mularkey, but no mention of Billick.
I think getting an OC job would get him closer to getting back into coaching. Plus Billick and Mike Smith are in-laws (one is married to the other’s sister if I’m not mistaken).
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
12:36 pm
Marc Stein’s power rankings; Hawks are up from 14th…to 6th.
As soon as you figure out the Hawks, let us know. In a roller-coaster week, they looked like defensive juggernauts in monster wins over Miami (in Miami) and Chicago … and at other times like a dude out of the D-League (Ivan Johnson) was their best player.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
12:40 pm
OB, I think Billick could do a lot of good for the Falcons…..he has a good strategy and could def build a better offensive line.
On Raheem, I just looked at some of the stats when he was a non-head coach in Tampa and they had a better than average pass defense while the run defense suffered greatly.
This is a passing league, so we better work on our 2 corners and safeties and nickel backs for the most improvement. We ignored that over the offseason.
Back to the Hawks, yes, we look like we are listening to LD. LD looks like he has a plan….he looks like he is flexible. Not much more I can ask from him, considering he is on a one year contract and he kept guys this time from camp that can contribute immediately on the court….see Ivan the terrible.
I will watch with confidence that we will be in every game this year. I don’t see the consistency yet we need, but that takes time, especially with a new bench, no KH, and no practice….and as AI said, “we talkin about practice!”
AI would love this year’s compacted schedule………
Rev in Tampa
January 10th, 2012
12:46 pm
OB,
I know we are pushing the limits of people’s patience by posting the Falcons stuff on this blog. But I don’t care about the opinions of the people on the Falcons blog. I care about the opinions of the people I know in this community. Plus, being fans, we still have a lot of turmoil in our systems that we have to flush out after Sunday’s game.
That being said, Raheem has a lot of good qualities as a leader but ultimately did not have control of the team. Last year the Bucs won a lot of their games as a result of an unlikely big play. Almost every game they had to come from behind. They rarely took control of a game and played well for 4 quarters.
This year the Bucs played stupidly every game. Their penalties were through the roof, their blown assignments were happening every play. Were it not for Josh Freeman’s ability to freelance they team would have been winless.
Raheem needs to go back to being a defensive coordinator but not with the Falcons.
Ryan
January 10th, 2012
12:48 pm
Did it bother anyone else that everyone of Vlads shots were 3s? Atleast have some balance.
vava74
January 10th, 2012
12:51 pm
Ryan,
It bothered me, to be honest.
It’s not that Marvin is anything remotely good or dependable but V-Rad went from a guy who looked to make plays to a Kyle Korver impersonator (I know that someone around here specifically said that he was nothing like Korver but he sure looked like it this game).
Trojan
January 10th, 2012
12:51 pm
Vlad plays a role, therefore the balance is not too big of an issue.
ROBERT
January 10th, 2012
12:53 pm
Enter your comments here
ROBERT
January 10th, 2012
12:55 pm
If Josh keeps playing like this and doesn’t make the Allstar team this year the fans and the coach’s are a bunch of idiot’s.He is dominating games right now.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
12:56 pm
Pedro, keep typing en espanol, porque yo necesito brush up on the espanol that I aprendi en high school para tres anos. For those of ustedes who no comprenden, Google Translate es su amigo.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
12:59 pm
“Raheem has a lot of good qualities as a leader but ultimately did not have control of the team.”
I wonder how much of this was Raheem and how much was lack of locker room leadership among the players. They were the youngest team in the league, Ronde Barber is really their only established veteran, and they didn’t win a single game after they acquired Albert Haynesworth. Raheem deserved to be fired after the way the team quit, but that team needs to acquire some veterans if they want to prevent that from happening again.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
1:01 pm
“I don’t know if all these guys are 4-3, but some of the names being mentioned are Del Rio, Spagnola, and Mike Nolan.”
Nolan is 3-4. The other two are 4-3. If they go for a 3-4 guy, you can be sure Abraham isn’t coming back, and they will probably try to move Lofton and Babineaux too, since both are ideally suited for 4-3.
Sorry for the football posts but there is too much nonsense on the Falcons blog to wade through and too many anal-minded morons who post there.
EmirS.
January 10th, 2012
1:04 pm
Estoy tratando de usar traductor Google aquí. No sé qué tan bien está funcionando, pero parece que debe ser capaz de engañar al usuario promedio de Inglés que no entiende una pizca de español …. un poco como yo!
¡Oh, manténgase dentro del tema, prefiero VladMan salir de la banca debido al simple hecho de que él es uno de los anotadores nuestro banco. Yo tomaría la defensa de Marvin en cualquier día de Vladman.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
1:05 pm
Here is the video Mike is talking about. 7 minutes long but it’s worth sitting through the whole thing, dude is hilarious.
EmirS.
January 10th, 2012
1:06 pm
“Sorry for the football posts but there is too much nonsense on the Falcons blog to wade through and too many anal-minded morons who post there.”
LOL! Ain’t that the truth. Same can be said for Schultz and Bradley when they post about Hawks related articles.
DS
January 10th, 2012
1:21 pm
Najeh that was the best use of spanglish I’ve ever seen.
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
1:28 pm
Najeh,
I think we keep the 4-3. But defensively, Falcons might be in trouble. Ray Edwards and Duntae Robinson are making big money (and under-performing), and now we have to pay Curtis Lofton, Brent Grimes, and John Abrahams. And we dont have a 1st or a 4th round pick.
Decisions, decisions, decisions.
ILL-Logical
January 10th, 2012
1:52 pm
“But defensively, Falcons might be in trouble. Ray Edwards and Duntae Robinson are making big money (and under-performing), and now we have to pay Curtis Lofton, Brent Grimes, and John Abrahams. ”
D’untae is probably going to get traded for a 3rd rounder. Lofton stays and gets paid; Grimes… I’m 50-50 on his staying. Depends on what interest he draws on the open market. Abe is a free agent, 34-5 ish. Depends on who the new DC is but I wouldn’t bet on his return.
For my money, Roddy White would be dealt if a team like the Bears, who need wide outs desperately, would give up a 1st. Not good times in Falconville.
The lesson learned from the Falcons’ sad state of affairs for the Hawks is that no matter how much the local media spins a franchises’ future, the ball don’t lie.
vava74
January 10th, 2012
2:37 pm
EmirS. January 10th, 2012
1:04 pm
Not bad. You would fool most non Spanish speaking bloggers.
Najeh’s Spanglish was hilarious by the way…
Astro Joe
January 10th, 2012
2:40 pm
vava, i made the korver/Vlad comparison. Yeah, I don’t like watching any player exclusively take 3s, but that hasn’t been his MO in this short season. He has better overall basketball skills than Korver (i.e. dribbling, passing, rebounding, etc.). The thing to like about his game the other day was that instead of trying to “prove” that he was a potential long-term starter by jacking up shots all over the court, he let the game come to him. He didn’t try to do too much and go beyond his personal talent limits.
Rev in Tampa
January 10th, 2012
2:55 pm
Astro,
To back up your support of Vlad… I like the energy he brings on defense by playing aggressively on the perimeter against the opponents SF or in double-teams. Furthermore, he has a knack for stepping in the passing lanes just at the right time. He has caused several steals.
All this is qualified by the fact that he has done this against the back-up scrubs, but still…
I would be very worried about assigning Vlad to cover LeQueen or Granger since they are quicker than Vlad and have good handles. In that case I think it would be better to bring him off the bench.
ntrigue
January 10th, 2012
3:03 pm
Hawks ranked #5 in Hollingers power rankings… Finally getting respect!
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
3:11 pm
ILL,
Dimitroff is going to have be creative. Do you trade Roddy White? How about Michael Turner? Money has to be freed up somewhere. Now we see why Houston didnt give Duntae the money he wanted. But that didnt stop Wade Phillips from helping them become a top 5 defense, even without Mario Williams.
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
3:14 pm
“I was wide open,” Vlad Rad said. “Not like [just] open. I was by myself and looking to see if somebody was coming. It was amazing. I think me knocking down shots is going to help [teammates] be more open and not have the double teams coming. That’s the kind of relationship we are trying to build. We depend on each other.”
This is the point I have been stressing for the last 4 years. Vlad does not have to worry about things changing, because if they do, then it will allow other guys to get off. The statement that he made, that it was amazing, is very telling. Vlad is basically saying, that he has almost never gotten wide open shots like this in his professional career. I have been saying, that if you put any other guy in Marvin’s spot, who has the ability to knock down a wide open shot, their career would take off. That one move alone, can change the Hawks fortunes, similar to replacing Bibby with Teague. People wonder why I don’t get excited when Marvin scores 12 to 14 points, hell, he should be able to do that with his eyes closed. He is left wide open most of the time. Teams having to stay at home on Vlad will open up the driving lanes for Teague, and Josh, and prevent the double team on Joe. Any guy at the 3 that can knock down open shots, or catch and penetrate from that 3 spot on a consistent basis, will change the offensive dynamics of the team.
The team has been playing very well lately. Hope this intesity keeps up. Usually when your heart is tested, guys respond. Thank you Mr. Barkley.
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
3:20 pm
Vlad had 6 rebs yesterday, and for the season, he is averaging 8 points, 3 rebs and 2 assists in 20 mpg. And even when his shot is off, I think he finds ways to contribute.
There has been one or 2 games where he seems to attempt only 3’s, but I wouldnt hold it against him yet, because he has contributed in other ways most of the time.
He is not as good a defender as Marvin, but for a min vet guy, he has tremendous value so far.
Rev in Tampa
January 10th, 2012
3:21 pm
Good post, Rod from CP
Jump Shooter X
January 10th, 2012
3:25 pm
Did TMac play ? I didn’t see an interview of him after the game and was wondering ?
Jump Shooter X
January 10th, 2012
3:26 pm
This is Hawks blog. Go to the Falcons blog to rap about the sorry Falcons.
Jump Shooter X
January 10th, 2012
3:28 pm
By the way, Matt “Scared” Ryan & soory excuse for an O-Line was reason Falcons lost. Back to basketball…
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
3:43 pm
Rev in Tampa,
“I would be very worried about assigning Vlad to cover LeQueen or Granger since they are quicker than Vlad and have good handles. In that case I think it would be better to bring him off the bench.”
Thinking wrong Rev. He as well as any other 3 in the league can’t check Lebron or Granger 1 on 1, but the blueprint for Lebron has already been set. You zone Miami up. Marvin or Josh has no chance agianst Lebron either. The game we won this year, I think Lebron had close to 20 points at the half. But offensively, he posses a threat, which keeps Lebron from roaming around on defense, and not having to check hsi man. It will help to space the floor. Sometimes you have to give to get.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
3:45 pm
I don’t give a shooshoo / scroll if you wish.
Mike Smith … Dang good Coach … best Falcon coach Ever !
Yes … better than my beloved Dan Reeves.
D-Coordinator;
VanG got ‘em to play hard, I agree with Astro Joe …
” Birds need a tactician on def.”
The next two drafts and free agency needs to be OL exclusively.
O-Coordinator; need some that will take the shackles off Matty.
Matty Ice still “greatness in his future” G-dad said, yeah !
Fundamentals
January 10th, 2012
3:45 pm
Amen to canning the Falcons yap. Get lost.
Good points on Vlad and Marvin. I too like Vlads energy, rebounding and knack for steals. They guy is extremely long and his uses it. Surprised Billy didn’t draft him since he’s so long and versatile! Don’t knock his 3’s. Dude was signed for one thing. We’re getting 3-4, be happy. He’s an excellent role player on this team.
T-Mac seems to be a great role player as well. I loved it when he called Josh out. I think that had alot to do with Josh’s coming out party. Kudos to Josh to finally using his talent. Sky is the limit if he continues to stay focussed.
Only complaint I have is what is Stack doing for us? I’d rather see him as a coach with Benson on the bench as a suit or D-League player we could call up. Unless someone can prove otherwise he’s only there for coaching, which doesn’t require a uniform. Waste of cap space.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
3:46 pm
note to Hatter
behave please
Fundamentals
January 10th, 2012
3:47 pm
Lebron failed against us because he like Josh resorted to shooting jump shots. Both players need to always aggressively attack the rim. Zone forced him into poor shots, which he missed, repeatedly.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
3:54 pm
If Hatter will keep himself straight;
he’s a joy to have on the blog.
Please, man … be opinionated;
-but-
It’s like Woodrow Call said:
” I don’t tolerate rude behavior ”
-Lonesome Dove-
and they won’t.
I like havin’ you around – heck – I’ll loan you some of my meds.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
4:05 pm
All things considered, I predict Stack will get released once KH becomes available to participate. We can’t afford to lose JT this year, and we might keep Sloan and Pargo for insurance.
OB, is Marvin really that great of a defender? I have been impressed with VRad and his footwork. I think he is always in a good position on the floor. We lose absolutely nothing when he is in in place of good ole Marv….amnesty could have been a major step forward…..use 7.5M elsewhere….anywho……
I think wematch up well with Indy and Collins probably gets more minutes with Hibbert in the post. How about a Ivan/Hansbrough matchup?
West/Granger vs. Horford/Josh…good matchup for our guys and good test to see if Josh is all-star worthy.
Collinson vs. JT…I like that matchup as well
Joe vs. Jones – edge to Joe….
You know what is so good about this lineup?
Teague-J.Johnson-Radmanovic-Smith-Horford
They are at a 1.000 winning clip….LD, I would ride that horse as long as far as it could go……
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
4:13 pm
Lights Out!
“There has been one or 2 games where he seems to attempt only 3’s, but I wouldnt hold it against him yet, because he has contributed in other ways most of the time. ” -OB-
_____________
OB, I’m not sure I see your concern here on Vlad. He said he had some Hungarian food from zaza that day he dropped 5 three bombs on somebody. Maybe zaza spiked his food? LOL
Jokes aside, but Josh and Drew were queried after the lock out and, Josh said this team needed a “lights out” shooter. We got that. So, what’s the problem if he is knocking down threes? In addition to that, when his shot was off that second game he went to the rim – literally … The worst dunk attempt I ever saw, sans Shellhead but, Vlad did get to the line. So, with his Lakers pedigree I have no concerns whatsoever that he will do whatever coach says and what this team need. Knocking down threes consistently is a specialist role and this guy seems to fit the bill and gives tremendous effort on defense which has been a rarity ’round here the past 7 years. OB, if Vlad starts hitting twos more than threes or as much as – then, he is reduced to just another average guy on a NBA roster. Not to mention, this team has way too many jump shooter as it is, the three was the missing element here. Jamal was way too streaky @ 10.8M imho.
Good stuff OB, you keeps the blog so interesting for us. Thanks for always feeding a hungry fan like myself. I’m OCD by nature so this blog is my favorite thing to do when I’m stressed, which is all the time these days. LOL
____________
Dukester! I love you too dear … Cyber Crush back at you. vava74 you will always have a place in my heart, I love the dance thing you and me do. It works for me. Mmmmwah!
___________
Let’s Go Hawks! Indy next.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 10th, 2012
4:13 pm
“Hawks ranked #5 in Hollingers power rankings… Finally getting respect!”
Hollinger’s rankings are computer automated. They are like the BCS, taking into account strength of schedule, point differential, margin of victory, etc. Basketball-reference.com has something called SRS which is more or less the same thing. The Hawks are still not getting much media love, but at least they are getting computer love, word to Roger Troutman.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
4:42 pm
Solution!
To all the cry babies: if you don’t like an open forum where you are privileged to have live convo and, live in a FREE country? Then go to, Ubeki – beki – stan – stan … where there is no freedom of speech on the internet and holler back!
Get Your SCROLL on whiners! Your whining about others comments is equally annoying.
Just know that Imma’ do me – regardless.
ALL YOU CAN EAT on a dinner buffet – is an option not a requirement. LOL!
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
4:47 pm
KevinM,
I don’t think Marvin is a defensive stopper, but I think he is a good defender and a better defender than Vlad (not saying Vlad is a bad defender, because he does move his feet, and does make an effort).
But Rod raises a good point. Marvin is not going to slow down LbJ. However, I would still start Marvin and give him a chance to see if he can make open shots. If he isn’t slowing down his man, and not knocking down his shots, I will replace him quickly
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
4:49 pm
And to be fair to Marvin, he is actually making shots this year (10-21 from 3, 48%) so hopefully he can keep it up.
Lithonia Up in Here!
January 10th, 2012
4:56 pm
“Usually when your heart is tested, guys respond. Thank you Mr. Barkley.”
*rod
So Mr. Barkley statements were out of love for the Hawks? Man please, he spit in their face and sadly you don’t know the difference. Here’s a better wise quote:
STAND UP FOR SOMETHING, OR YOU’LL FALL FOR ANYTHING
HAWKS FANS, MAKE SOME NOISE!!
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
4:59 pm
V-Rad = Glue Guy
Marv has been mis-cast as our teams glue guy by the national media.
Marv has never really found a role here … not his fault.
He has always played out of position.
Regardless of what some think,
he’s not graceful enough to play the three.
He does not possess the mentality / savvy / nor chutzpah
to be the glue guy.
But this is -not- a knock Marv post !
It’s a pro V-Rad post !
V-Rad’s … intangibles + skills::
* #1 he’s clever, *patient, *High B-ball IQ, can shoot, pass,
does all the little things, plays defense with his mind, unselfish,
good teammate, understands his role, and is more athletic …
than one would think. [yes - Euro stereotype]
He is the perfect 5th starter;
with four others who maybe have different egos.
-glue guy-
Marv can be a # 1 option with 2nd group.
V-Rad does not have to guard LBJames …
as Josh can defend LeBJ.
- no rule says [3] must guard [3] or [4] must guard [4] -
V-Rad could easily guard Bosh.
Also quit worryin’ about LD playin starters too much for 1 game.
woody used to play 6 guys 40 min for 80+ games / slight exaggeration.
He has used the bench quite well this year as a whole.
Green & Pargo are growing on me / JP needs to understand;
he’s not the # 1 option on offense !
_____________________________________________
We Still Need A Big ! ! ! … Poor Marv … He sets up as the trade bait …
… (to acquire a Big) …
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:02 pm
-lame ass use of asterisks in my previous post-
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
5:03 pm
Psycho T!
“How about a Ivan/Hansbrough matchup?” -KevinM-
_________
I heard last week that Tyler had 0 assists on the year, nada, zilch. Something about being the only starter in the NBA with such distinction. I don’t follow that team so I don’t know. And, I thought we had problems.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:07 pm
Imma gonna change my name to Imma ! hey hey
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:10 pm
To be clear;
V-Rad would not have to guard LeBJ.
most likely match-up = Josh on James & V-Rad on Bosh.
-sheesh-
Rev in Tampa
January 10th, 2012
5:11 pm
Lithonia Up in Here!,
Rod’s statements did not imply that Barkley was giving out love for the Hawks. SMH
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
5:15 pm
“So Mr. Barkley statements were out of love for the Hawks? Man please, he spit in their face and sadly you don’t know the difference. Here’s a better wise quote:”
It does not matter if they were out of love or out of hate. They were the truth. Sometimes you have to get punched in the mouth, or spit on before you do something about it. Knowing Barkley, he probably really does not like the Atlanta team, and he has every reason to feel that way. I was just glad to have someone express nationally what we talk about here everyday. No way the players, owners or coach can lie, and say they did not hear what Barkley said. They can always say, we don’t read the blogs…….
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:18 pm
Teague’s comment: ….. [from a previous article]
(I promise I’m not trying to be a know it all)
” Players on a string ”
When playing defense (even straight up man)
there are zone [help] principles involved.
“players on a string” simply put means;
the further player ‘A’ and his man are from the ball …
the further he should be from his man.
So, he should be cheating toward the ball.
With the “defensive 3″ rule
a player cannot have his foot in the lane as in college.
That’s why you see players on the weak / backside
do-si-do-ing with one foot, back and forth, in the lane.
Therefore, it is as if all player are attached to a string,
When one moves toward the ball, it draws the other players,
more closely to the ball.
“ players on a string “
I stated that I was not attempting to be a know it all;
but, I cannot overcome the fact that I’m a Jackass.
It just comes natural / sorry.
vava74
January 10th, 2012
5:19 pm
drmaryb,
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
5:22 pm
My Grand-Daddy!
Brilliant post re: vlad-rad. My new favorite Hawk.
What I appreciate most is his championship pedigree (lakers training) and wealth of play off rounds experience. Vlad can teach our guys a ton of lessons on how to be a champion. How to go about your business, practice habits, taking care of your body techniques, phil jackson secrets, kobe stories, etc.
Josh Powell taught us nothing, except how to get arrested for being an azz. Too bad we didn’t have Vlad last year.
This core is probably so damned tired of looking at each other, that outsiders look like the second coming of Christ at this point. LOL!
vava74
January 10th, 2012
5:26 pm
An Orthodox Christ! Remember, V-Rad’s 5 three pointers came on Christmas Day in the orthodox calendar…
Ra'mon
January 10th, 2012
5:31 pm
I wonder if the Lakers would take Marvin and a 2nd for Troy Murphy and the $9 million trade exception they got for Lamar Odom. I think a move like this would open up so many possibilities for the Hawks, for future trades, and flexible roster.
Starters – Teague, Joe, Vlad, Josh, Al (for now)
Bench – Kirk, Green, TMac, Troy Murphy, Zaza
reserves- J. Pargo, I. Johnson, Stackhouse, Collins.
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
5:31 pm
Grandad,
“Marv can be a # 1 option with 2nd group.”
I agree with your analysis, but Marvin will never be a #1 guy. Even if he played with the second unit, he would defer to Willie Green, TMac, or even Ivan Johnson. He just does not have that shooters mentality. He does not want that pressure or spotlight. The only reason he scores to 10 to 14 points he gets with the first unit, is because he is left unguarded most of the time. If there is ever a time where the defense actually focuses on him, he does not stand a chance.
O’Brien,
Marvin is shooting well this year, and playing much better, but it’s not so much the shots he takes that bothers me, as it is the shots he passes up. I have seen him numerous times this year pass up a wide open jumper, and pass to Josh for a wide open jumper. That is where BB IQ comes into the picture for me. No reason Marv should ever pass up an open jumpshot, to pass to Josh for a jumpshot. Joe does the same thing as well. Sometimes I think they purposely do it to make Josh look bad, because they know he is not afraid to take the shot.
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
5:36 pm
Please don’t mistake my post for me thinking that Vlad is the greatest thing since sliced bread. He is ok, but when put in the right system, he can be above average. As long as he makes those open shots, and is not afraid to take them, he provides the Hawks with the same thing or better than Marvin does, for a hell of a lot less.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:36 pm
Rod from College Park
check and mate on the Barkley comments.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:45 pm
Rod from College Park and others;
about being in the right system.
LD’s motion Offense / a thing of beauty when run to perfection.
*They have brought in some guys who thrive in LD’s off. [V-Rad]
*T-Mac @ this point in his career fits perfectly in LD’s “mo”.
*Bargnani (I Know, I know) would be terrific moving in LD’s system.
-disclaimer- { I am not as Big a Bargnani fan as yawl might think }
*Joe seems, -seems-, Seems, SEEMS, to have bought in.
_____________________________________________
We Still Need A Big !
Dept. Of Unintended Irony
January 10th, 2012
5:49 pm
Which brings to mind…
Why don’t those who believe in “life beginning at conception” celebrate Christmas in March?
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
5:55 pm
Ra’mon
LAL will not give up that [ T E ] as long as there is any chance
they can get their hands on D.Howard.
tyger
January 10th, 2012
5:56 pm
Falcon Fans Rise Up!!!
- If Mgt. can’t make the tough decisions, rise up!
- If Mgt. stands behind a scoreless QB, rise up!
- If Mgt. bypasses another Heisman QB, rise up!
- If Mgt. produces an inferior product, rise up!
- If Mgt. sells an inferior/defective product, rise up!
- If you were humiliated Sunday, rise up!
- If you value your hard earned $, rise up!
- If you cant take it anymore, rise up!
- If your’e tired of being sick and tired, rise up!
- Why support their half-a$$ efforts???
Ken Strickland
January 10th, 2012
6:01 pm
With all of our guards having enough quickness, speed, athleticism, and willingness to play DEF, angles and passing lanes, we are now able to use traps and double teams, which is something we couldn’t even consider doing with our 2 former backcourt DEF liabilities. We now have a team that can win with OFF or DEF, and when both are clicking, we are as good as anyone.
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
6:29 pm
tyger
Yes;;; Rise Up I Say;;; Get Those Republicans Out Of Office ! ! !
” Out, damned spot! out, I say!—One: two: why, then, ’tis time to do’it ”
William Shakespeare / Macbeth Act V scene 1
Lithonia Up in Here!
January 10th, 2012
6:34 pm
“It does not matter if they were out of love or out of hate. They were the truth.”
SOME OF BARKLEY STATEMENTS WERE LIES!
Here’s one of many lies: “The Hawks peaked 3 years ago”
Playoff record:
2010-11 44-38 (Beat Orlando 4-2 rd1), Lost East Conf Semis Bulls win series 4-2
2009-10 53-29 Lost East Conf Semis Orlando win series 4-0
2008-09 47-35 Lost East Conf Semis Miami win series 4-0
2007-08 37-45 Lost East Conf 1st Rd 2008 — Boston win series 4-3, first round
Barkley Lied, they are NOT in decline yet
Another Barkley Lie:
“Marvin, Josh and Al Hortford are all the same player, they are redundant”
They are not. Each player is different with different skill set
Countless more lies, too many to mention
HAWK FANS, STANDUP MAKE SOME NOISES!
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
6:44 pm
Q & A!
“Is Marvin’s injury a blessing in disguise like KH was last season?” -ag-
_________
I think so. Like all coaches say, “a player will not lose his starter’s role due to injury, but this an opportunity for someone else to step up.”
_________
“I wonder if DWills regrets going to NJ.” -ag-
________
Regrets? Uggh he was traded. Angry he was traded there – might be a better choice of words.
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
6:47 pm
FIRE LD
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
6:48 pm
NJN gave up a former all star, talented rookie, and 2 1sts for Deron. Team barely has 1 win. Smgdh
Rod from College Park
January 10th, 2012
6:51 pm
Lithonia up in here,
If you are not smart enough to understand what he meant, there is no reason for me to try to explain. You are right, he lied. LOL
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 10th, 2012
7:00 pm
Where is Travis Outlaw? Was he amnestied by NJN? He was severely overpaid like Marvin was.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
7:21 pm
Lithonia, Cleveland swept the Hawks in 08 4-0. We had beaten a Wade led Heat team 4-3 to earn our right to be swept by Cleveland. This may be the year we have to deal with Miami in the playoffs.
DMB, Travis Outlaw is now in Sac-town, getting 12mpg and 2ppg…..still looking for a role there. He was being paid 4M for 4 years, so not as bad as Marvelous.
RickSundGM
January 10th, 2012
7:23 pm
Grandad, I am having so much trouble finding a C. This league is light in that area you know….not enough of them to go around.
Would Robert Swift work for you in the interim?
I hear Ostertag wants another crack at it at age 38…he fits my budget.
KevinM
January 10th, 2012
7:30 pm
Jeje, I still would have done that deal…..Lopez is still banged up and I have an up-and-comer in Brooks.
He’s gotta ink DWill though before he has 2nd thoughts or else its really back to the drawing board.
Astro Joe
January 10th, 2012
8:03 pm
Kevin, I’m not sure that you understand the difference between the luxury line and the salary cap line and the influence of amnesty. The following numbers are illustrative. Let’s say the Hawks actual salary expense is $69.8M and the luxury tax line is $70M. They basically can’t do anything or they will cross the luxury line meaning they will have to pay a tax AND they will miss out on the extra check teams that are under the luxury line receive at the end of the season. So it is a double hit, more money out on the tax with nothing in return.
The salary cap is around $60M (again, illustrative). The Hawks are OVER the salary cap. If they amnesty Marvin, they will remain over the cap. They would not have ~$8M to spend on a free agent. They could only use some sort of mid-level exemption to sign a FA and I think that with the new CBA, they would only have access to a small MLE (not the full one) because they are over the salary cap. So you amnesty Marvin for the ability to spend maybe $3M on a vet.
Meanwhile, in about 3 years (hopefully not sooner), Joe’s contract will be a HUGE anchor on the team. And because he will be making more than twice what Marvin makes now (or ever), there is a good chance that by using amnesty on Joe, you could truly affect your ability to get below the salary cap line.
Maybe it is smart to use amnesty on Marvin this summer, when Hinrich comes off the books. Or mayebe the following summer, if they choose not to resign Josh (I know, a crazy thought in his current string of games). Bottom line, without another $8M+ salary leaving with him, using amnesty on Marvin is just a gross misuse of a one-time asset and would be about as dumb as the Knicks picking up the one-year extension on Billups’ contract in July only to use amnesty on him in November.
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
8:06 pm
JOE HAS MULTIPLE 1 REBOUND GAMES THIS SEASON
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
8:07 pm
Lithonia Up in Here!
When one opines that belongs to him. *[Barkley]
Therefore, it cannot be a lie. *[Barkley's statement]
A lie is intentionally rearranging the facts.
Accordingly, he did not rearrange anything as what he stated
was his opinion to begin with.
-G-dad the Barrister-
ag
January 10th, 2012
8:08 pm
Reading through the post I see a lot of you all thinking the way I may be thinking. For years I have been Marvin’s #1critic (although I think he is a really good kid), but maybe it is time to shake up the core to go further. You can’t keep doing the same think and expecting a different result. As Rod from CP said, Marvin should easily avg 14 ppg because he is always open. That is pretty much what VladRad was saying.
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
8:09 pm
FIRE SUND
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:15 pm
Is there any body in our solar system that thinks Al is as good as Dwight Howard?
No.
So orlando asked for Al Horford and role players for Dwight. Why have we not work out a deal. D12 will be traded before the March deadline and we WERE right in the lead position after the request for Al.
Why did we not close the deal?
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
8:17 pm
Agreed with AJ. Although Marvin is overpaid, there is not enough of a cash savings to upgrade the team (not right now anyway).
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:17 pm
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Yahoo! Contributor Network
Dwight Howard Trade Rumor and Report Round-up
Charles Joel
By Charles Joel, Yahoo! Contributor Network Jan 9, 11:56 pm EST
At the start of training camp, the Magic gave Dwight Howard’s agent permission to talk to the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and the New Jersey Nets. Back then, it was believed that Howard’s ideal landing sport was the Nets, where he would team with Deron Williams and compete with Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire for a share of New York’s enormous basketball market when the Nets moved to Brooklyn.
Now, the Nets have lost the centerpiece of their potential trade package for D12, Brook Lopez, to injury and an Orlando-NJ deal seems highly unlikely. Additionally, various sources are reporting that the Golden States Warriors would be willing trade for Howard without long-term assurances and that New York Knicks are prepared to part with Amare.
O'Brien
January 10th, 2012
8:18 pm
From Foxsports NBA ranking; Hawks are 6th.
Just as soon as you start to believe, the Hawks go and make Charles Barkley call them too nice. If they ever play with a sense of urgency, they’ll be dangerous. But we’ve been waiting for that for years..
Grandad
January 10th, 2012
8:20 pm
RickSundGM
Okay … what about “you” letting Byron Mullens get away to Charlotte ?
his numbers are lookin’ pretty good with PT.
_____________________________________________
Heck-fire;
I’m with Mary Ellen, go get Brian Zoubek.
The Big Lug Rebounds (or at least he used to)
Just find a diamond in the rough – like V-Rad.
A Ajinca; although signed in France / don’t know if available.
How about Marv & Kirk for Kaman & Vasquez ?
Now, go to work after you read HoopsHype in the morning.
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:20 pm
http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2012-01-10/amare-stoudemire-contract-injury-knicks-dwight-howard-trade
OK the Knick are falling out of the D12 hunt
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:23 pm
Now the Lakers are losing Interest.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1017474-nba-trade-rumors-andrew-bynums-play-complicates-dwight-howard-trade-for-lakers
ag
January 10th, 2012
8:23 pm
Because D12 will not resign with Atlanta is why we are not going to make that trade (remember trading for Danny Manning and he walked after the season). I realize DWill was traded to NJ, but he forced Utah to trade him since he was not going to resign. It is pretty much the same way D12 is doing. Again, if I were Orlando, I would take the best offer for him and hopefully send him to Sac or Minn.
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:31 pm
Barkley only said what weve been saying for years. We have the worlds softest center who escorts to the rim for dunks and mild mannered JJ.
We have 2 good players (jj and Josh) and a lot of bit role players. Why get upset at the truth? Hawk fans have been saying that for years. As it is today this team gets to the second round and folds. We dont have the center to get past the second round. Ignoring that fact wont make it go away.
Fact is Hawks are soft and dont have the TALENT level to get past the 2nd round. Only JJ and Josh are capable of taking over a game. Every body else is along for the ride.
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:34 pm
You cant prove that D12 wont resign. In fact, he has more of a reason to resign here than anywhere else.
That said Id rather have lost at love that not to have loved at all.
Its better to try than make idiotic excuses about why its better to continue as an also ran gone fishing.
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:41 pm
Looks like ebay seems to think Atlanta is still in the hunt, posting a D12 Atlanta hawks jersey
http://compare.ebay.com/like/110653777374?var=lv<yp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar
Admiral Ackbar
January 10th, 2012
8:42 pm
It’s a TRAP!
Brutus
January 10th, 2012
8:47 pm
Barkley and Harlan clowning the Hawks.
“I can’t stand watching this Atlanta Hawks team play,” Barkley said.
“This game is terrible,” added Harlan. “Look at this team–31% [shooting], God almighty!”
Miller was the only one of the three that didn’t have anything bad to say about the Hawks, but Barkley kept going.
“The Hawks aint got nothing but a bunch of nice guys,” Barkley continued. “If I were the Hawks, they’re the team to me I’d try to anything to get Dwight Howard. Say ‘you can have anybody on our team.’”
Unfortunately you are right Sir Charles. But we dont want to be any thing but a team who is good. Great is not in our mantra
Lithonia Up in Here!
January 10th, 2012
9:10 pm
I know you guys are thinking me and ag ,Jump Shooter X,Trojan,Jody,Trent,PEDRO EL GITANO ,joe white are trolls.
And?
Your point?
So what?
Some of us know
January 10th, 2012
9:23 pm
Brutus = LimeLight = Wind Sailing = Inya Hass =
This is your brain on drugs…= Billy Preston =
Ernest T Baggs = Blasting = Justin Case =
Mo Money = D Board = Exclusive = ?
How many can you name?
Lithonia Up in Here!
January 10th, 2012
9:33 pm
Some of us know
ag
Jump Shooter X,
This is your brain on drugs
Bluee Steel
AL Horford
Jody,
Trent
,PEDRO EL GITANO
,joe white
Lithonia Up in Here!
January 10th, 2012
9:35 pm
And me
Lithonia Up in Here!
BIG DOG IN D HOUSE
In reality, theres only 4 people on this site.
ag
January 10th, 2012
9:44 pm
Brutus, D12 said he will not resign and that is why he gave the magic a list. Man I am glad you are not the gm because when D12 walks, we will be starting from scratch. I do think this team is more talented the Chicago and will be able to compete with Miami. I honestly think when this team plays the way they suppose to, they can finish #2 in the East
LOL
January 10th, 2012
9:50 pm
Puff, Puff, puff, puff, Inhale, hold, pass back to ag…..
LOL
January 10th, 2012
9:52 pm
exhale
ag
January 10th, 2012
9:55 pm
Looking at the power rankings and we are 5th. Funny, the 76′ers are first. Now we played NJ 3 times and wins over scrub Bobcats and Wiz we have quality wins over Bulls (should be twice) and Heat (again, should be twice).
76′ers have only one win against a team with a winning record (pacers). THey have fattened their record on the Warriors, Hornets, Raptors, and Kings.
Tomorrow will be another good game against a quality opponent for our Hawks
ag
January 10th, 2012
10:01 pm
LOL… we have really put it on the Bulls this season. My top 8 are
1. Heat: They actually have a good bench with some good point guards.
2. Hawks Stay away from ISO Joe and pass the D*** ball!
3. Bulls MVP is great. What is wrong the the heart of the team Noah?
4. Knicks The other Big 3 Carmelo, Amare and Chandler
5. 76′ers (very athletic young team that will give Hawks fits )
6. Magic (if D12 hangs around)
7. Pacers ( young team wth a lot of shooters – no playoff experience)
8. Celtics (too old, no bench)
LOL
January 10th, 2012
10:09 pm
“A lie is intentionally rearranging the facts.”
That’s a lie!!
rearranging facts is an interpretation.
A lie is an untruth or falsification presented as truth or fact.
Like saying Al Horford.is a defensive specialist.
brigadierjerry
January 10th, 2012
10:10 pm
It is interesting cause it seems like this year with the teams in the Eastern Conference, it looks like flashback of the 90’s as far as playoff teams:
Hawks
Heat
Celtics although after Bird retired they werent good anymore
Knicks
Bulls
Pacers
76ers
Magic this depends on if Howard stays on the team for the year
I like the balance of this Hawks team. 7-3 after 10 games I will take it. Big test tomorrow against Pacers. Playoffs will be interesting
LOL
January 10th, 2012
10:19 pm
Co-sign
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
-
“”You can say what you want, but every since Josh called Al out and got in his face in the locker room Al has shut up with All that talk about playing power forward. Al should just shut up and play. He should be doing what he can to help the team not trying to disrupt it.
Im glad Josh got in his Azz”‘
bottom line
January 10th, 2012
10:21 pm
After 2nd round of play offs Hawks go on long fishing trips.
bottom line
January 10th, 2012
10:22 pm
like every year
JaeEvolution
January 10th, 2012
10:33 pm
When did Josh Smith get on Al? Can someone please link something, thanks.
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
10:51 pm
LMAO northcyde’s fantasy team is 4-18.
Mine is 15-7
#WhatsTheWeatherLikeDownThere?
FreshFromATL
January 10th, 2012
10:59 pm
JaeEvolution,
SMH. That rumor was started by a couple of dudes on here gossiping like females.
Ole Hawk's Fan
January 10th, 2012
11:03 pm
MM is GONEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! He is the New Coach @Jacksonville!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ole Hawk's Fan
January 10th, 2012
11:04 pm
Head Coach MM @ Jacksonville……………………LET”s Help Him MOVE!
Grandmaster JeJe
January 10th, 2012
11:09 pm
Ole Hawk’s Fan,
I hope Mr. Blank dishes out serious cash to coordinators. Our window isn’t staying open much longer.
Maybe Matt Ryan needs to hang out with Charles Oakley who will toughen his soft @$$ up – no homo
hittman jamillion
January 10th, 2012
11:26 pm
I actually like the mis information spread as facts. Like if DH was traded here we would lose out if he decided not to resign. Let’s say we make the trade could no other team offer him more than us,plus we clike just as easily sign and trade him to Brooklyn for Lopez anyway.
On the positive if DH was here the way we playing we’ll be in the ECF at the worst,and possibly the finals champion at best, DH,JOSH,JJ,IT that’s dope inside out game wit DH& JJ
hittman jamillion
January 10th, 2012
11:29 pm
I meant JT,JJ,DH,JOSH & either Vlad or Turkolou to stretch the field. Best defense hands down
tyger
January 10th, 2012
11:55 pm
January 18th, 2011
1:06 pm
1. Trade Matt Ryan for Cam Newton.
2. Sign FA DE, FA CB, FA T, FA WR
3. Fire Offensive/Defensive Coordinator
4. Release Anderson, Baker, Coleman
5. Draft TE, RB, WR, LB
LinkReport this comment.dbird1
January 18th, 2011
1:14 pm
@tyger, really? get rid of our pro-bowl qb. go back to the Aints blog
LinkReport this comment.Football Maniac
January 18th, 2011
1:15 pm
Tyger.. What? Go learn some more about football! You are on crack!
LinkReport this comment.Big G
January 18th, 2011
1:17 pm
Lets trade tyger for any one of the 3 STOOGES.
Buddy Grizzard
January 10th, 2012
11:56 pm
“what about “you” letting Byron Mullens get away to Charlotte ?
his numbers are lookin’ pretty good with PT.”
True story he played well against the Hawks. G-Dad calls it again.
J.J.M.
January 11th, 2012
12:02 am
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4ft4o_josh-smith-s-big-block-on-vladimir_sport
Slimjr
January 11th, 2012
12:08 am
Goodbye Coordinators!
Now Trade MATT BUST RYAN for the #2 Minnesota pick and draft a star QB in Robert Griffin the 3rd!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Got to upgrade the QB position, because Melt is obsolete!
Slimjr
January 11th, 2012
12:09 am
Stick a fork in ICE MELT he aint the one GRASSHOPPER……………..
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
1:29 am
Miami just choked away a game big time against Golden State, despite the refs’ best efforts to help them.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
2:22 am
Najeh,
MIA were Natefyed: 14FT by the dynamic midget.
Unfortunately for anyone hiring him, not only he is 5′7” but he also suffers from a bad case of Smoovitis (in Nate’s case, its a terminal condition): capable of the best and the worst, but a lot more often of the worst.
EmirS.
January 11th, 2012
2:32 am
Wonder how legit the Sixers are. They’ve beaten only one good team in the Pacers and the Pacers themselves have only beaten one Legit team in the Celtics.
EmirS.
January 11th, 2012
2:44 am
I don’t understand how virtually every NBA rankings have the Sixers over the Hawks……
How!?
vava74
January 11th, 2012
2:48 am
EmirS,
defensive rating. they beat crappy teams but did it consistently and keeping them at low scoring.
we also have 4 wins against crappy teams but since game 1 our wins against crappy teams have not been defensively consistent as the wins # 2 and #3 against NJN, the wins against WAS and CHA illustrate.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
3:04 am
Actually, make it 5 wins against crappy teams. We did get 2 impressive wins against MIA and CHI, but we threw away an easy win in CHI (excusable) and another against a sub-par MIA team (inexcusable).
Just Joe
January 11th, 2012
6:03 am
Philly can be a tough team: Holiday & Lou Williams at PG, wings of Meeks, Turner, Iggy, and Thad Young, and a front court of Brand, Hawes, and Vucevic. Their guards and SF’s rebound and attack the basket. Keep their small players in check and attack their bigs with speed, and we should be fine. Those first six I mentioned are a handful though, especially when we have to counter with Willie Green and Pargo at times.
STRETCH
January 11th, 2012
6:49 am
The Sixers are not all that, so far they beat DET, SAC, IND, TOR, NO and Golden State and split games with PHO.
Doesnt tell me much. We will see what they are made of in Feb when the hit Miami CHI and ATL in a four day stretch. Then they hit the LAL, San Antonio, CLippers, then the REAL SIXERS will show up.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
6:51 am
Just Joe,
Our hope is locker room dissent with Iggy potentially annoyed with decaying minutes and shots.
Evan will become very good in due time, IMO. I think his threshold is something in-between JJ and Wade.
Grandad
January 11th, 2012
7:21 am
Thanks for the props Buddy G !
I enjoy watching alot of ind.workout video on obscure players.
Some game footage, but I get more out of their workout vid.
*keep an eye on Kawhi Leonard [not obscure] “spurs”
but I think he’s gonna be outstanding.
wordsmithtom
January 11th, 2012
9:00 am
Maybe we should consider a “big man coach”. Here’s a guy who, though undersized, could flat out do it. Hire him to coach up Al….
http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nba-ball-dont-lie/spencer-hawes-turnaround-may-sprung-shawn-kemp-tutelage-202057686.html;_ylt=AmUlPXQYGk5jbOxanM9t7Du8vLYF
Herman Cain
January 11th, 2012
9:29 am
Wordsmithtom you have to be willing like Josh wanted to work out during the offseason, Al spent his chasing camel toe and requesting to play power forward. The number 1 problem Al has is attitude.
Its me again
January 11th, 2012
9:35 am
The ol shoe in mouth trick… No only is Al horford always on the perimeter and rarely down low protecting the rim. but theres practically no change in his shot blocking average.
I hope ken strickland has a shoe horn.
“and Horford’s shotblocking has increased, because there’s no more SWITCHING DEF to take them away from the man they’re covering and put them out on the perimeter.”
Al Horfords career shot blocking average 1.1 per game
Al Horfords 2011-12 career blocking average 1.3 Per game,( after 10 games)
No change worth noting.
Ken, Like many Horford apologist make up dung or as Grandad say “they lie”
Its me again
January 11th, 2012
9:41 am
“and Horford’s shotblocking has increased, because there’s no more SWITCHING DEF to take them away from the man they’re covering and put them out on the perimeter.”
Al’s career blocks average 1.1
This year (10games) ? 1.3
Well Ken, as usual, thats not exactly a complete picture. Al Spend a great deal of time asking to play power forward and picking up guards on the perimeter rather than protecting the rim.
Not much has changed, we still switch to help Al’s lack of willing effort.
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 11th, 2012
9:44 am
wordsmithtom
bring Shawn Kemp…to Atlanta….lol. My advice… Let him prove he can keep his nose clean somewhere else before bringing him to ATL.
Mercy
January 11th, 2012
9:45 am
Sund, ASG,
Please get Howard home. We promise to sell out every home game and when we finish you will have our first World Championship.
JJ,Marv,Josh, Howard
Do it NOW!!
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
9:47 am
Remember when John Salmons was supposed to be a credible and cheaper option to replace Joe Johnson? Laughable. 8 PPG on 36% shooting this year. Less than 42% shooting last year. When his contract expires, he may very well end up playing with Jarvis Hayes, Bonzi Wells and Devean George.
So why wouldn’t Paul George slap the ish out of Joe’s right thumb tonight?
I expect LD to debut the “big line-up” tonight against the Pacers. And Jason Collins will likely have 2 fouls in 6 minutes and bloggers will hype up his world class defense.
Mercy
January 11th, 2012
9:54 am
A second string scrub is no substitute for a full time MOTIVATED center.
The center position is our weakest link and its the most impacting position on the court. You will never win a championship with out a legitimate center. That’s why we cant get out of the 2nd round.
duh?
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
9:55 am
“I don’t understand how virtually every NBA rankings have the Sixers over the Hawks……”
Think back to the Hawks’ blowout loss at home to the Sixers last February. That is basically what the Sixers have done to every team this season. Also I think they played their first 4 or 5 games on the road, which probably works in their favor in the rankings.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
9:55 am
So the Heat lost a double-digit 4th quarter lead while playing on the road last night? Wait a minute, I thought that there was only one team in the NBA that lost double digit leads in the 4th quarter? Maybe the Hawks should sue (they are good at that) for losing their exclusivity to watching a home team make a late game comeback. Fire Spoelstra and trade Chris Bosh, Joel Anthony and Mario Chalmers before noon today. And free Norris Cole.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
9:56 am
I am pretty sure wordsmithtom’s 9:00 AM post is the first time in at least 15 years that Shawn Kemp has been described as “undersized”.
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
9:56 am
vava,
Evan will become very good in due time, IMO. I think his threshold is something in-between JJ and Wade..
If Evan gives them anything close to JJ’s career numbers does (18, 4 and 4, good defense…off the top of my head), I think Philly will be thrilled.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
10:10 am
OB,
I think he will give them more. I think Evan will be a 20/5/5 player very soon and maybe go beyond (hence the JJ-Wade) interval.
wordsmithtom
January 11th, 2012
10:16 am
Najeh,
Consider the irony, eh.
Two years back, when Hawks signed Joe Smith, Kemp was trying to latch on. He had lost weight and was looking good. Certainly physical enough still to whip the young pups. I’d love to see a REAL low post influence, like Nick the Quick has been for Teague, get ahold to our bigs. Josh seems to be getting it. Al needs to.
bigdave
January 11th, 2012
10:18 am
Stro Joe..
i doubt there is a need for that big lineup tonight. if Drew goes there, i dont know what he’s trying to prove. i have no problem w/ that lineup 2 teams, LA and Orlando. Horford usually holds his own against Hibbert. didnt grab 20 rebs in Indy last season.. ?
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
10:36 am
bigdave, I would use the normal line-up tonight, but I think LD will be worried about Granger and would prefer to have Collins-Horford-Josh matched against a formidable front court of Hibbert-West-Granger. Because Granger seems to get most of his points on screens and back-door cuts, I wouldn’t subject Josh to all of that running and chasing, but I think LD may opt for that defensive alignment to start the game. Less about Hibbert and more about Granger (and giving West a slightly bigger target to shoot over with Horford). Vlad should be fine chasing Granger (IMO).
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 11th, 2012
10:38 am
“Even those who were around for Kemp’s pre-lockout prime often forget that the biggest source of his points came from triple-threat plays that mostly included face-up jumpers or trips to the free-throw line.”
“The lobs and throwdowns fill up the YouTube clips, and rightfully so, but Hawes is right to point out that it was Kemp’s availability (so to speak) both in transition and the half-court that allowed him to flourish. He met the ball on entry passes, he worked his way toward the strong side without having to bowl defenders over (well … sometimes), and he made it easy for both Gary Payton and Nate McMillan to find him for dishes that didn’t show up on the assist register, or on decades-old videos that show up on YouTube mix tapes.”
Shawn Kemp tutoring back to basket game is laughable. He was a faceup big. 7′6 wingspan and 6′10 and playing forward is not undersized.
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 11th, 2012
10:38 am
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjOjeg2zvHE
Grandad
January 11th, 2012
10:41 am
vava
Are you speaking of Evan Turner ?
” I think his threshold is something in-between JJ and Wade”
-seriously-
Were you the one who compared *JC2 with Ginobili ?
*[was it JC2 or just someone as absurd]
He will never be as good as James Harden OKC.
His own teammate, Jrue Holiday is a better player.
That was a prank – right ?
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 11th, 2012
10:42 am
Josh-Vlad-Horford
Vlad-Horford-Pachulia
Josh-Horford-Collins
Good thing bout HIbbert is his high for minutes are 32 minutes. Tables might have turned on Roy vs Horford. This will be a good test for us.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
10:43 am
Grandad,
No, I never compared JC2 to Ginobili and yes, I think Evan Turner’s threshold is very very high.
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
January 11th, 2012
10:44 am
Drew hates the Josh-Horford-Collins lineup. Putrid spacing with 3 guys trying to operate in the post, putrid shotblocking and athleticsm so it takes away from the break. And it eventually forces Smith to perimeter to balance the floor.
Grandad
January 11th, 2012
11:00 am
For all the Al loathing;
Josh has just passed Al in Player Effeciency, per NBA Stats.com
Josh,19.3 / Al,18.8 respectively / .05 dif.
*a pretty fair minded list / the top ten looks like this:
[Josh @ 23, Al @ 28]
1. LeBron James, 34.8
2. Kevin Love, 26.7
3. Dwight Howard, 26.0
4. Blake Griffin, 24.4
5. Kobe Bryant, 24.1
6. Kyle Lowry, 23.3 – *[leads the league in assts]
7. Andrew Bynum, 21.1
8. Kevin Durant, 23.1
9. Carmelo Anthony, 22.9
10. Pau Gasol, 22.6
Ken Strickland
January 11th, 2012
11:04 am
The Magic are 6-3 and in 3rd place in the conference. With the early success they’ve had so far, unless they suffer a sudden collapse, don’t expect them to trade DHoward at anytime before the trade deadline. With the early success the Hawks have had so far this season, especially against the Eastern Conference leading Heat and Bulls, don’t expecty us to be involved in any trades before the trade deadline. So all of you delusional TRADE FANATICS can give it a rest until then, assuming you are capable of finding something else to discuss until then.
Fortunately, our GM isn’t dumb enough to breakup our core after they’ve gone 6-3, after playing 9gms in 12 days, including 3 consecutive back to backs, and 7-3 after playing 10gms in 14days. But as most of us have seen, some of you are far more interested in taking the fantasy approach to NBA basketball and indulging in fantasy trade scenarios, than actually thinking and taking a realistic and common sense approach.
Grandad
January 11th, 2012
11:09 am
* should have been:
[Josh @ 23, Al @ 28 respectively]
* not:
Josh,19.3 / Al,18.8 ~{*{*{~respectively~}*}*}~ .05 dif.
Slimjr
January 11th, 2012
11:10 am
6 STRAIGHT FOR THE SIXERS! NICE
3 STRAIGHT FOR THE HAWKS. COOL!
Ken Strickland
January 11th, 2012
11:21 am
I’m still trying to figure out how anyone with any type of basketball IQ can hold Horford more accountable for our poor DEF of the past than Bibby or Jamal. Woodson and Drew didn’t feel the need to adopt the SWITCHING DEF to protect against Horford as a DEF liability, and Drew certainly didn’t abandon it this yr because of him. He abandoned it and incorporated new DEF principles, and an entirely new DEF approach, because we got rid of our 2 previous DEF problems.
We’re talking about a team with no true DEF liabilities, more OFF firepower on both our bench and starting lineup, more speed, quickness, athleticism, versatility, and depth, which will all improve as soon as we get captain Kirk(Hinrich) back.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 11th, 2012
11:38 am
The Zone!
Josh is playing inside two zones: a player’s zone and Drew’s zone defensive scheme. Josh is flying all over the place like The Spirit Hawk and blocking everything.
He should be the player of the week. And, IFFFFF Drew starts Kirk over Teague, not only will that destroy the team’s chemistry at the point, it will also be asinine on Drew’s behalf. IDK what’s gonna’ happen, but I will just have to pull my hair out.
Does anyone think Kirk will take issue with coming off the bench? That bench with Kirk at the point will destroy any opponent. We look really good yawl.
I’m stoked.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
11:57 am
Bizarre proposal of the day (although I think it would be good for everyone).
Trade Marvin for Metta World Peace.
Yes, Metta is on the way down and having an horrible start of the season but we need a quality wing defender (we have none) AND
With Hinrich hopefully coming back good, he will need minutes not only at the PG slot (not too many so we don’t lose the Teague effect) and at the SG slot, allowing JJ to slide to SF which makes us have a bottleneck at the SF slot.
If we move Marvin, we could work with Metta, JJ, McGrady and Vlad depending on match ups and play.
I am sure that Metta would be thrilled with the prospect of going against Lebron in the playoffs.
The move is neutral from a cap point of view but Metta’s deal expires next year.
Just Joe
January 11th, 2012
11:57 am
Kirk, like any player, has an ego, and probably thinks he can start for all but maybe 5 or 6 teams in the league. I think he’s fine as long as he gets 25+ minutes a night, and he wins games. He’s going in to an offseason where he will likely earn his last multi-year contract. We’ll get roughly 30+ games to see him team with JJ & Teague. I expect things to go well, and wouldn’t mind signing him to a new contract. Maybe 3 yrs $12-15M.
Just Joe
January 11th, 2012
11:59 am
M. Williams for L. Barbosa. Toronto could use a young SF. Hawks could use the expiring contract.
Slimjr
January 11th, 2012
11:59 am
We’re streaking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah…………………
vava74
January 11th, 2012
12:23 pm
Just Joe,
I think we really need a quality wing defender to slow down Lebron a bit.
If we go into a 7 games series against the MIA, playing zone will not be the only solution. We need to be able to play Lebron, Wade and Bosh man to man for extended minutes with confidence that we will be able to at least make them work hard for their points.
JJ can check Wade and is usually quite effective.
Metta would be able to check Lebron and even Bosh in some different match ups.
Al and Josh have the ability to check Bosh in a reasonably efficient way.
On the other hand, I no longer trust Marvin to be healthy and focused to slow down Lebron.
Also, it is a psychological issue: Lebron does not respect Marvin but would respect Metta and we all know that Lebron is psychologically weak and we should exploit that.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
12:47 pm
vava, does Metta’s contract expire at the same time as Marvin’s?
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
12:59 pm
On 680 a few minutes ago, LD said he got a copy of the TNT game with Charles Brakley, and made sure everyone of his players watched it.
He said he wanted them to hear what the perception of the ATL hawks is, and hopefully, it will have a positive effect on their play.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
1:05 pm
Metta’s Contract:
2011/12 $6,790,640 — 2012/13 $7,258,960 — 2013/14 $7,727,280
Marvin’s Contract:
2011/12 $7,500,000 — 2012/13 $8,287,500 — 2013/14 $7,500,000
Unfortunately, both contracts have the same length BUT Metta’s would give us 800 thousand and 1 million in cap space this year and next year.
It seems that Metta has a player option for the last 2 years next year:
http://hoopshype.com/salaries/la_lakers.htm
Whilst Marvin has a player option on his last year
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
1:07 pm
vava,
Maybe Metta will not exercise his option that last year to go pursue his music career. You never know what to expect with that guy.
That being said, I would pass on him. I’m not sure if the risk is worth the reward anymore.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
1:07 pm
O’Brien
January 11th, 2012
12:59 pm
First quality coaching by LD so far. Maybe Josh took it personal and will take it to the next level…
If I were LD, I use a concentration of Barkley’s remarks on the tube as the sole pre-game speech.
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
1:08 pm
Doc,
At the Falcons press conference, the GM said how the offensive line was 6th in fewest sacks allowed, which was good.
Howeva…Mr Blank intervened and said numbers are misleading (in a vacuum), because just because you are not giving up sacks doesnt mean you’re doing your job.
He said maybe your QB is forced to throw the ball away (he mentioned how Matty was only sacked twice against the Giants but was under constant pressure), maybe he is forced to take the check down instead of going deep etc.
I’m glad Arthur stepped in. That is what I want from my owner. Speak the truth. Dont feed me numbers in a vaccum (like telling me how Hawks and Boston are Lakers were the only team to make the second round 3 years in a row).
And Arthur Blank also said on at least 2 different occasions today…it is all about winning championships.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
1:15 pm
Barkley also suggested that if LD can’t find time for Ivan, that there is something wrong with the head coach. I wonder how he expects Ivan to respond to that? These gimmicks have a fairly short shelf life. He should have waited until the playoffs to use them (or during a prolonged losing streak).
vava74
January 11th, 2012
1:18 pm
blog monster ate my reply.
in a nutshell:
Metta is worth the risk since he could wake up for the playoffs (and we get 1 million cap space next year).
We can’t think seriously about the ECF without a quality wing defender and Marvin is not dependable (I think his D is worse and the MIA game proved that for me).
I would hire Metta’s psychiatrist as an assistant coach. Maybe she could work with other guys in the team too:
Light a fire in JJ;
Unleash permenantly Teague’s inner dog;
Convince Zaza that every opponent is a russian invading his beloved Georgia;
Teach Ivan enough manners to get by without killing someone until the end of the season;
Get Al back to Boss mode;
Hypnotise Josh into passing after rebounding, not shooting treys and living in the paint.
wordsmithtom
January 11th, 2012
1:19 pm
Astro Joe, LD has played Ivan, at least, more than he played either of his 8-10 seated players last year, and Ivan is 11 this year. Barkley would be a fool to suggest Ivan get more minutes than the regular rotation players, considering his NBA experience.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
1:20 pm
AJ,
Horford spent the WHOLE season hitting uncontested elbow shots last year (now they are tight on him).
It’s pretty viable to think that Ivan will remain vastly unknown until the playoffs and then… then his shortcomings would be augmented anyhow so we might be better off getting him to work as a spark off the bench on crappy effort nights.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
1:25 pm
tom, with Marvin hurt and TMac limited, has Ivan received any extended time int he past 2 games? I’m not bumping for Ivan as much as I resent LD using Barkley’s words exclusively as an indictment on the players. Because most of what Barkley discussed is a cultural problem that requires strong leadership. Taking an opponent lightly, not playing hard consistently, poor asset management, etc. Those are not exclusively issues that rest on the shoulders of the players.
If Barkley is the guy who has to get these guys motivated, that is a DAYUM shame.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
1:28 pm
“On 680 a few minutes ago, LD said he got a copy of the TNT game with Charles Brakley, and made sure everyone of his players watched it.
He said he wanted them to hear what the perception of the ATL hawks is, and hopefully, it will have a positive effect on their play.”
Best news I have heard today. I’m sure Gearon was sitting in his room with his fingers in his ears saying “I can’t hear you la la la la la” that entire game, but props to LD for using that as a motivational tactic. Hopefully Josh Smith has reason to tell Chuck “in yo face” in June.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
1:28 pm
And no, I don’t know that those words were used “exclusively” to motivate the players. I’m hoping that LD recognizes the sentiment is borne from a place that he absolutely owns. With around 56 games to go, he can’t trot out that Barkley tirade with every return to poor form, at some point he needs to improve his own leadership skills.
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
1:30 pm
I must have missed where Charles singled out Josh. Admittedly, I missed most of the first quarter. What I heard was related to the team at large, I must have missed the personal assault on Josh.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
1:30 pm
“Taking an opponent lightly, not playing hard consistently, poor asset management, etc. Those are not exclusively issues that rest on the shoulders of the players.”
All true, but that doesn’t mean LD can’t present it that way as a means to an end.
vava74
January 11th, 2012
1:31 pm
AJ,
There are many paths to success and humiliation sometimes is one of them.
Obviously, LD’s lack of accountability policy is one of the factors behind those Hawks’ shortcomings so using Barkley to motivate guys is not a tactic of which anyone should be proud off so… I would have used it BUT I would not have said it to the press like LD did (which means that LD is shedding responsibility and trying to take credit for the manoeuvre).
Najeh Davenpoop
January 11th, 2012
1:32 pm
More than anything I am just encouraged that LD is using those comments as constructive criticism, because there’s no doubt in my mind his bosses would simply dismiss them and make excuses to cover their asses. The fact that LD is at all different from his bosses is encouraging in and of itself.
Sautee
January 11th, 2012
1:33 pm
AJ,
Didn’t we beat the Heat on their homecourt BEFORE Barkley’s comments?
Wonder what motivated them to do THAT?
I see nothing wrong with Uncle Larry using Barkley’s words. In fact, it’s pretty good spin to take that criticism and make it a motivation.
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
1:47 pm
AJ,
I don’t think Barkley singled out Josh. The only comments I remember about Josh is when Reggie said Josh may not excel at one thing, but he does a lot of things well. And Barkley was quick to say that one think Josh does not do well is them jumpers.
Other than that, I think it was mostly directed at the Hawks as a team and an organization (although they take shots at JJ a couple times).
O'Brien
January 11th, 2012
1:49 pm
Najeh,
How you feel about Joe Lombardi (the Saints QB coach) as the OC? I looked him up on the Saints website, and I think he is an intriguing possibility.
Slimjr
January 11th, 2012
1:56 pm
Hey Arthur spin anyway you want. Your QB is a bust!
Three embarrassing blowouts on the National stage prove he’s a strikeout!
Sunday was the worst of them all. Offense totally shut out by the 27th ranked defense is beyond horrific!
Unacceptable comes to mind. Both Coordinators were smart to jump this sinking ship….
Up next 0-4……
Astro Joe
January 11th, 2012
2:05 pm
I think vava said it best (first time
), LD should not have relayed the story to the media. The tactics he employs to motivate the team need to stay behind closed doors. It comes across as outsourcing a demand for consistent professionalism to an effin’ commentator (to me).
Sautee, sure, but I don’t think Barkley was suggesting the Hawks could NEVER beat a quality team, just that they often don’t fulfill their collective promise as a unit. So I’m not confused that LD has never coached the team well or the players have never played with effort. The issue is less about has it been done before and more about will it be done consistently in the future.
Michael Cunningham
January 11th, 2012
2:39 pm
new blog posted. shutting down this thread.