Atlanta Hawks: Hawks 92, Trail Blazers 89
- The Hawks faced their toughest foe since Al Horford went down and won again. After the W they said a lot of things about guys stepping up to do more in his absence. Normally such cliches inspire eye-rolling from a cynical hack like myself but, I’ve got to say, that’s what’s happened so far.
- How else to explain a W in which the bench kept the Hawks in it until Joe Johnson got hot, and then the starters closed it out after the reserves faded and Jamal Crawford tried to do his thing where he shakes off all of his earlier misses with fourth-quarter shot-making? What else to think about a game in which Jannero Pargo and Tracy McGrady play big roles along with Joe, Jeff Teague and Josh Smith?
- The pieces seem to be fitting together.
- “It really feels like these guys are starting to get a feel for one another,” Larry Drew said. “In the first half felt like we had a good flow with the starters and reserves. A few times in the second half we fell out of rhythm but guys are starting to mesh together. Any combination I put on the floor we seem to have some kind of chemistry. We feel like the players we have brought in complement the players that have been here.”
- Look at some areas in which Horford produced and the Hawks have several players who, either consistently or at crucial times, have offered a bit more than usual since he went down: rebounding (Joe, Zaza Pachulia, Marvin Williams, Tracy McGrady), scoring (Smith, Johnson, Pargo, and Willie Green), assists (Johnson, McGrady).
- “We’ve got a lot of guys who can do different things,” Williams said. “I think everyone has stepped up to give a little more to fill that void. You can’t replace a guy like Al so everyone has to chip in.”
- “I think everybody is doubting us because Al went out,” Teague said. “I think it’s [made] us tighter. Guys want to win.”
- If you weren’t impressed by the Ws against Charlotte, Minnesota, and Toronto then you at least have to give the Hawks Ps for this one. It’s not like it was a given they would win all of those games after the shock of losing Horford. “I didn’t know how we would fare because he does so much for this ball club,” Smith said.
- Since blowing leads against Chicago and Miami, the Hawks have showed some finishing kick to close out New Jersey, Minnesota, Toronto and now the Blazers. None of those teams is as good as the Bulls and Heat but the Hawks have to get it done consistently against lesser competition if they hope to do it against the better opponents (which sounds kind of weird to say since they are missing their All-Star center).
- “We maintained our composure,” Drew said. “That’s one area we have to continue to grow in. Last year in a situation you could read our body language, and runs kind of let the wind out of our sails. As of late, we have been withstanding runs and that’s a great sign to me and tells me we are starting to grow in that area.”
- The winning plays included Smith blocking Gerald Wallace’s layup attempt and Johnson creeping up from behind on Wesley Matthews for a steal that led to an alley-oop dunk by Jeff Teague.
- “I don’t know if he thought I was not going to try to get back in the play,” Johnson said. “He didn’t have any awareness when I was coming from behind. I didn’t want to tap the ball forward to where he could get it so I tapped it to where I could get it. Jeff Teague, I saw him running down the wing and I know he can fly so I just threw it up there and he went up there and got it.”
- Johnson started 0 for 5 and then 8 of his next 14 shots. He had 10 of Atlanta’s 30 points in the second quarter and seven of 17 in the fourth. “That’s all it takes is to see a couple go in the basket,” he said. “We are doing a good job mocing the ball but I wanted to be a little more assertive in that second quarter.”
- Smith didn’t make jump shots tonight but he had 11 rebounds, three blocks and three assists against three turnovers. LaMarcus Aldridge, Smith’s friend from their prep days, tested his slimmer frame and Smith held up pretty well while taking swipes at the ball to throw off Aldridge’s rhythm. “I was just trying to absorb the contact and get some help as little as possible,” Smith said. “When he caught it deep I was wanting them to come down and scrap a little bit and show him different looks. It definitely wasn’t just me.”
- Williams had eight rebounds and 12 points on eight shots in 21 minutes. That’s similar to his production before he got hurt so maybe Drew needs to ride him when Ivan Johnson isn’t having much of an impact, like tonight.
- Teague was driving to pass or get fouled (13 points on five shots). He did a good job on the ball-handler in pick-and-rolls–the problem at times was Aldridge easily shaking free on the pop.
- Speaking of which, Drew’s decision to play Jason Collins against Kurt Thomas led to Thomas leaking out for those mid-range jump shots he favors and controlling the boards.
- Meanwhile Zaza (11 rebounds in 27 minutes) was solid. Finishing at the rim remains an adventure and he didn’t get to the line tonight but he covers so much more ground than Twin and is always challenging ball-handlers and shooters.
- Pargo came in and made his first four shots. He appeared to be a bit peeved about coming out after his second turnover in the first half.
- Jamal tried to steal one from his old team. “I knew that was coming,” Josh said. “He actually probably still wanted to be here. It would have been nice to see him in a Hawks uniform. Things happen in this business. I wish him the best. I’m glad we were able to slow him down a little bit.”
- “I tried not think about coming back to Atlanta and just tried to focus on getting a win,” Crawford said. “The Hawks are playing great even without Al in the lineup.”
- The Hawks made 21 of 27 free-throw attempts but, go figure, two of the six misses came in the final 7.6 seconds.
- Vladimir Radmanovic was a DNP-CD. “There were a couple times I wanted to get him in there but at that four spot I didn’t want to play him against certain guys,” Drew said. “He will be back into our rotation because I definitely need him.”
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152 comments Add your comment
TMACfan
January 19th, 2012
12:39 am
Looks like Atlanta is #2 in the east!
HawkZ
January 19th, 2012
12:41 am
FIRST!~!~ DAYME!!~~!~ GOOO HAWKZ
TMACfan
January 19th, 2012
12:44 am
Go TMAC!!
Mike
January 19th, 2012
12:45 am
Our bench play is really surprising, especially since all the “experts” (Hollinger, etc) said we had no depth. Marvin def should have saw the floor more tonight- LD needs to recognize that. All in all, great win for morale and we def need a W in Philly on Fri
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
12:46 am
“I was just trying to absorb the contact and get some help as little as possible,”
though lighter, Josh did a pretty good job on defending LA in the post. i noticed he kicked it back out a few times late when trying to back Josh down..
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
12:49 am
thats as descriptive as ive heard Joe when breaking down a moment in the game..
no usual,” i dunno man, i just wanted to make a play”
Adam
January 19th, 2012
12:49 am
As I’ve been telling you, Joe Johnson’s MVP run continued tonight.
He owns each and every one of you.
tjhook
January 19th, 2012
12:53 am
I’m wondering if there is a way the Hawks could acquire shotblocking forward Ed Davis from the Toronto Raptors
Big Daddy
January 19th, 2012
1:01 am
Good win against a solid team. The starters played together and did not get rattled at the many times Portland made comebacks after the guys got minor leads. The bench played well again and the play did not drop off with the 2nd unit in. That is very encouraging. The guys have shown that they can go out an execute the plays the coaches have called and they are seeing that it is working. I am very happy for this win and the continued emergence of Jefff Teague as the person to lead this team.
It is still maddening to see Josh bring the ball up and try to run the play. He ignores Jeff and tonight made a number of turnover on passes he should not have attempted. He is getting the green light on the jumpers because he is making them. Tonight, he did go inside and pass when they weren’t falling. That shows maturity. Go Hawks!!!!!
GA PEACH
January 19th, 2012
1:03 am
Go hawks TNT,ESPN, AND AJC continues to doubt these hawks and all they keep doing is winning. I love it GO HAWKS
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
1:05 am
This was their first major test after losing Al, and they passed. If Marvin and Zaza can contribute more positives than negatives, like they did in this one, the Hawks can beat good teams like Portland. Joe and Josh continue to show up every game. Josh played All-Star Aldridge to a draw and Joe stuffed the stat sheet again. Great to see them step up in Al’s absence, and I hope they can keep this up.
Of course, according to Hollinger’s rankings, the Hawks’ next opponent is the best team in the league. That is test #2. Can they win a road game against the league’s #1 defense? We shall see.
I still would feel better about them if they acquired a real big man. I like some things Twin does that don’t show up in the stat sheet, but he isn’t starter material and neither is Zaza.
FTPB:
“najeh please dont leave >>> we know who you are >>>fk them trolls man.”
My name ain’t Hermione. I don’t have the inclination to stay and fight trolls. If they want to jack my screen name, they can have it and I’ll leave. Hopefully people are smart enough to figure out when a troll is posting.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
1:11 am
Count me in among those who thought Josh did a pretty good job on Aldridge considering that he gives up probably 20-30 pounds to him.
Buddy Grizzard
January 19th, 2012
1:19 am
“How about hoping that Zaza scores 15 points and grabs 13 rebounds ” – northcyde
A little optimistic there northcyde… settle for 5 points and 11 boards?
“Also a good reason why projecting Zaza’s per minute stats and implying that he would be equally effective in a starting role doesn’t work.” – Najeh
That requires actually trying him out as a starter.
“Here’s another hint: he’s also the 12th worst player on that list in turnover rate.” – Najeh
But he still lead the Hawks in postseason +/-.
“I like Twin for his basketball IQ, ability to take charges, and some of the little things he does that don’t show up on the stat sheet.” – Najeh
It’s a good thing Twin does things that don’t show up in the stat sheet because otherwise, how would we know he was even there?
Najeh, you can’t get past the fact that Zaza is awkward. I was at the game tonight and HE IS AWKWARD. But he also put up highly productive stats. If Drew wants to continue his dog and pony show with Collins as a 12 mpg starter… whatever. But to suggest we need to trade away a player who has been in the top 10 in postseason rebounding rate 2 of the last 3 years (and who is the only player on that list making less than $10m per season) strikes me as a bit absurd.
Hawks Fan Down Under
January 19th, 2012
1:22 am
good win with even contributions. Marvin must be frustrated though. He was our best player in the first 6mins but he’s subbed out first….doesnt make sense.
Not sure what Chris Mullin’s been smoking but Joe Johnson is not LeBron like in any way. but he called the game good unlike Brent Barry who’s a total tool.
Ken Strickland
January 19th, 2012
1:26 am
It was excellent timing that Pargo and Green finally started hitting their shots immediately after Horford went down. Shortly after getting the starting nod when Marvin was out, VRad seems to have lost his shot and has fallen out of favor with LDrew. The Hawks arecontinuing to become a very consistent and productive team, both offensively and defensively.
GaSouthernSmooth
January 19th, 2012
1:26 am
good solid win, great bench production. surprised we won on the national tv, When will the letdown come though? is the 1st question, And the 2nd is can this team (sans horford) with the pieces it has accomplish anything in the playoffs? PLEASE MAKE A MOVE FOR A 7 footer who can solidify the hawks as a contender. move 1st rd pick marvin zaza if you need to isnt this obvious SUND?
Free IVAN
Hawks Fan Down Under
January 19th, 2012
1:28 am
And Zaza is tottaly an adventure under the hoop. He’s awkward, timid, gets blocked, stripped, blows lay ups. I reckon he should be like Rodman was. Get the board and kick it straight out again because he’s got about a 10% chance of scoring on the put back.
Buddy Grizzard
January 19th, 2012
1:33 am
“It is still maddening to see Josh bring the ball up and try to run the play. He ignores Jeff and tonight made a number of turnover on passes he should not have attempted.” – Big Daddy
Good observation and I’ve been noting this all year… Josh will bound-and-break and have Teague ahead of him but he won’t push the ball ahead. Instead he tries to be the point guard. Sometimes he makes great decisions, sometimes he throws the ball away. But if he would just let the point guard be the point guard he’d have more monster dunks like the one Jeff fed to him off the break.
EmirS.
January 19th, 2012
2:01 am
The excuse that was made for Josh [somewhere in a previous blog], as to why he brings the ball is up because Mike Bibby was too slow to run with him/the team. With Bibby gone, Josh continues bringing the ball up. I remember in one of those Miami games, the announcer said the Josh was an excellent passer. I thought excellent was a bit to much. Josh is a good passer. Why he continues bringing up the ball is beyond me at this point. Everyone on this team can run the floor. You have Teague and Joe who are more then willing to give you the lob. Why not pass it to them!? Hell Marvin will run the floor with you and set you up for a dunk! [Notice how I went from speaking about Josh to actually speaking to him?]
And you know what pisses me off even more, is the when he actually does pass it in the backcourt…it’s like a “princess” pass. It’s so soft that It feels like a good 4 to 5 seconds before the ball actually reaches the intended person. I feel like throwing a brick at him when I see that.
I’m very happy to see him drive to the paint alot more now. He still jacks up the shots, but he’s slowly incorporating driving into the paint, as part of his arsenal. I know Josh is explosive. But has anyone else noticed that to many times he’s taking his time running into transition defense?
daniel
January 19th, 2012
2:08 am
tmac makes everything look easy. Imean the guy seems to be thinking on 2 possessions ahead. He reads the floor so well and has serious court vision. If he was’nt so injury prone, dude would be the best PG out there.
daniel
January 19th, 2012
2:09 am
Valadrad is out of the rotation because if his shot is not falling he brings nothing else. Atleast guys like Tmac and Green have other weapons
Hawks Blog Legend Worldwide Clyde
January 19th, 2012
2:36 am
FIRE SUND
Mac-Town #maconchevyrider
January 19th, 2012
4:31 am
The bench brought us back against Minnesota. The bench kept us in this game until Joe got hot. That will be the difference this year, actually having a “2nd Unit” instead of 1 guy and useless crap.
Just Joe
January 19th, 2012
5:24 am
Loved how LD sent a clear message to Pargo. I don’t care if you’re 4 for 4, you’re my backup PG. You turn the ball over twice WHILE BRINGING IT UP THE FLOOR, and you’re out. That’s unacceptable.
I’m also not going to complain about the Marvin sub in the 1st. Because in the end, Marvin was -5 in 21 minutes at SF, and McGrady was +8 in 27 minutes at SF. I said it pregame, that Marvin, TMac & Vlad would have to outproduce Wallace & Batum. Hawks three = 20 points (with no minutes from Vlad). Blazers two = 8 points.
ag
January 19th, 2012
5:25 am
I think Marvin is finaly getting it. He is our wink link and other teams know it. Crawford checked Marvin and Wallace checked Joe. If Marvin would have a strong inside game, this team would be complete. At least he is boarding more.. and I hate to say it….. I wish Drew had more confidence in him and give him more minutes when he is playing well. He should have played at least 35 minutes tongiht.
Just Joe
January 19th, 2012
5:31 am
Our center production tonight (Collins, ZaZa & I’ll include Ivan): 7 pts on 3 of 8 shooting, 13 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 1 turnover, and attempted 2 foul shots. (These 3 actually totalled 53 minutes on the floor to accumulate these stats).
ag
January 19th, 2012
5:34 am
Collins is on our roster for only one player in the league and honestly that is when he should play. It reallly is no centers out there unless we are going to tear up our team. ZaZa under the basket is a terrible thing… I will say he does look like he hit the weight room.
Hmmmm
January 19th, 2012
5:41 am
“The bench brought us back against Minnesota. The bench kept us in this game until Joe got hot. That will be the difference this year, actually having a “2nd Unit” instead of 1 guy and useless crap.”
BASICALLY.
TO EVERYONE SAYING THEY DON’T NEED AL, UHH YOU CAN GET AWAY WITH HAVING ONE BIG WITH A PULSE (ZAZA) AGAINST SOME OF THESE TEAMS, BUT IT WON’T WORK LIKE THAT COME PLAYOFF TIME IF YOU’RE TRYING TO DO BIG THINGS. JASON IS A WASTE OF A ROSTER SPOT. CAN’T GO INTO THE POSTSEASON WITH ONLY BIG WHO CAN REBOUND AND RUN THE FLOOR AND YOU’LL BE ELIMINATED QUICK. BETTER HOPE AL MAKES IT BACK LIKE HE SAYS.
Hmmmm
January 19th, 2012
5:47 am
GOOD WIN THOUGH. REMEMBER WHAT I SAID ABOUT THE BLAZERS AND KNICKS BEING FRAUDS THOUGH? YUP. MELO IS GETTING EXPOSED LIKE NO ONE ELSE.
IF YOU WANT TO SEE A REAL TEAM DOING DIRTY WORK, LOOK AT OUR OLD FRIEND TY CORBIN AND THE UTAH JAZZ. ESPN WON’T TALK ABOUT THEM THOUGH SINCE THEY AREN’T IN A BIG CITY. HE’S GOT THEM OUTWORKING EVERYBODY.
Shellie Ludemann
January 19th, 2012
5:58 am
Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with some pics to drive the message home a little bit, but instead of that, this is fantastic blog. An excellent read. I’ll certainly be back.
Just Joe
January 19th, 2012
5:58 am
If you’re a fan of PER (and I’m not), its interesting that every guy on the roster is 11 or better except Pargo & Jason Collins.
Pargo is shooting 36% from the floor, 31% from 3, and his high turnovers to low assists just paint him as an inefficient player.
Collins just doesn’t show up in the stat book at all. He actually has a -1.1 rating.
This doesn’t paint the whole picture, because we also can’t have Marvin & Vlad shooting below 40% from the field.
Hinrich replaces Pargo. ??? replaces Collins.
Shows us how the Hawks are getting it done though. 12 of 14 guys that have played this year, are playing within the system and producing. Last year we had 17 guys log minutes for this team, and only 10 of them produced a PER above 11 (and Kirk Hinrich wasn’t one of them).
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 19th, 2012
6:00 am
The horford Effect!
•“I think everybody is doubting us because Al went out,” Teague said. “I think it’s [made] us tighter. Guys want to win.”
______________
That’s what I’n seeing.
______________
“I don’t have the inclination to fight the trolls.” – najeh davenpoop -
I know man … the 2 foot gremlins were out in full force last night. They lit up Sautee too, but I spotted the foolishness right away. I know Najeh’s style and vernacular so, it was relatively easy to spot the imposter. The meds ran out early this month. ha ha
All great observations on this game from everyone. We know more than these so-called GM’s hands down. i agree zaza should kick those rebounds back out, or like josh said, help should come and (i’ll add to get the ball) out of zaza’s hands in those instances … Marvin, too.
Dukester
January 19th, 2012
6:02 am
Good game Hawks I am proud of the decisions to bring in this cast of the bench. Iam proud how Drew is handling this team. I am proud of the unselfish team concept they have adopted. Josh you have improved but if you would commit to 15 rebounds a night you would average 25 pts and get a max contract guaranteed! Marvin commit to 8-10 boards a night you would get 15-17 points and no one will bother you anymore. LOL Joe if you would shoot 20-25 shots you would earn that check. Hey good luck guys the rest of the way. Sund get a rebounding shotblocking center on this team I mean now and right now!!!!
STRETCH
January 19th, 2012
6:34 am
Wow, im watching NBA TV, they just showed the highlights and afterward they all just sat on the panel and talked about the Blazers the entire time!!!
Lea
January 19th, 2012
6:46 am
Lol at all you josh smith haters…
Marcus
January 19th, 2012
6:47 am
MC,
Taking all things in consideration so far (2nd team play, absence of “Capt. Kirk” while recovering from injury), for the latter part of the season and post-season, does Kirk Heinrich have more value as a super-sub PG or as dangling bait to get another piece for a playoff run?
Marcus
January 19th, 2012
6:54 am
dmaryb,
LOL
Can we teach Zaza to go straight back up with the put-back vs. trying to head fake or put it on the floor for positioning?!?
I recall at least twice (maybe 3) times he did that and ended up getting blocked or having the ball stripped.
northcyde
January 19th, 2012
6:57 am
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
1:05 am
FTPB:
“najeh please dont leave >>> we know who you are >>>fk them trolls man.”
My name ain’t Hermione. I don’t have the inclination to stay and fight trolls. If they want to jack my screen name, they can have it and I’ll leave. Hopefully people are smart enough to figure out when a troll is posting.
****************
I spotted it almost right away.
You can spell and form complete sentences. That troll couldn’t. Plus, you aren’t really highly critical of Jason Collins, while the troll dissed Collins almost immediately. That wasn’t you. So I called him out on it.
Ronnie Dobbs
January 19th, 2012
7:19 am
FYI: ESPN “experts”, all 5 of them, labeled the Hawks as pretenders, yesterday. A majority labeled Portland as contenders. Aside from the 4th quarter surge, the game was never close. This team will never get it’s due until we make it into the Eastern Conference finals.
northcyde
January 19th, 2012
7:28 am
Stop the Horford bashing.
The Hawks were looking like a DOMINANT team with Al in the lineup. Don’t forget that in 2 of those losses, we were beating the hell out of Chicago before the mounted a furious comeback, and we played the most lackadasical(sp) game of the year vs a Wade and Lebron-less Heat team.
The REAL ISSUE was that Smith was playing a little too much on the outside on both ends of the floor ( which was the reason for his horrible start of the year ), and JJ not being assertive enough offensively. With Al out, both guys have corrected these two things and are playing great.
Smith is rebounding the ball as well as I’ve ever seen him do it, because he’s actually mixing it up on the inside. And JJ is doing a lot more catching and shooting when he’s open. He’s actually has a Ray Allen scoring mentality these days. A guy like him needs to shoot the ball when open, instead of always trying to take and make difficult shots.
To me, those are the two biggest reasons we haven’t lost a step with Al out. That, and the bigs we DO have, can hold their own defensively and on the boards.
PPG average is down since Horford’s departure, but the defense hasn’t slipped.
truth
January 19th, 2012
7:38 am
please at the arena were more excited to see Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn than the Hawks..
They got more cheers than Hawk players
Mac-Town #maconchevyrider
January 19th, 2012
7:39 am
As for this need for a big time C, D12 is the most dominating C in the game and we whooped his team in the playoffs with our “weapon” against him still on the roster. If we could beat a team with D12 at Center, I’m sure we could work out or arrange something to help us out in the post against other teams post players without the need of some super save-a-team, productive, starter material center. There has to be some big (PF, C, PF/C) we could sign or make a minor deal for that knows how to box out and is hungry for boards, right?
d.carter
January 19th, 2012
7:48 am
FREE VLADRAD! marvin would be so much better coming off the bench like he was a carolina, Vlad does the little things like play great helpside defense and rebounds even when his shot isnt falling, And he stretches the floor and even attacks the basket with a little more vigor than marvin. I think marvin would have a more aggressive attitude if he played with the 2nd unit because of his deferring mentality he plays timid when joe and josh are on the floor
Trojan
January 19th, 2012
7:48 am
MC; When is Hinrich coming back? What is your best guess? I predict that the Hawks wait until Hinrich comes back before getting a center so that they can cut 2 guards in order to pay for 1 more big.
Cheap.
The organization is not committed to winning but you have to give Sund credit for finding good guys without spending anything over the min.
Trojan
January 19th, 2012
7:50 am
Sheldon Williams should be cheap enough to acquire and his rebounding per minute is good.
Will
January 19th, 2012
7:56 am
I have been saying this all along, hawks have the talent and the personnel to win a champion and they could do it this year, if they play at the level they are playing at right now ” consistently” and ratchet their defense up another level. They would shock the world and I mean it would be a shocker!!!
Mac-Town #maconchevyrider
January 19th, 2012
8:05 am
I mean seriously, these are decent players, but Is Hibbert, Hawes, Joel Anthony, Noah, Asik, etc, going to actually take over, dominate and run us out of a game? We put together a scheme to beat a team with D12 at C in a series! Any PF, C or PF/C that’s willing to come off the bench and play with high energy and is a decent-to-good rebounder can make a difference in crucial spots in a game (i.e. Ivan Johnson). Get another random F or C somewhere that wants to crash the glass, we’ll be aight.
Mac-Town #maconchevyrider
January 19th, 2012
8:06 am
Who knows maybe Benson could have been that guy???
Stackhouse is useless
oldmike
January 19th, 2012
8:10 am
I was at my first game of the year. Many things caught my eye. Regardless of when the game starts there will be a large contingent of ticket holders arriving 30 minutes late. Don’t know what the attendance was but looked like under 10k. Why can’t more people show up? TMac is a great addition. He does so many of the little things on the court. He makes everyone better. Marvin was strong on the boards all night and made a great steal of the inbounds pass with 5 seconds left to seal the deal. JJ can drain it when he is on. JT is making a huge difference at both ends of the court. Once he loses that hesotation to shoot watch out. And, JSmooth played amonster game. He was banging with LA all night and that guy is a beast. If he and Joe can continue to focus and JT can continue to be more assertive this season will be a big plus. There is a noticable up tick in the mental resolve of this team versus any other year’s unit. Peace out.
justahawkfan
January 19th, 2012
8:10 am
I believe the reason for Josh’s dramatic weight loss is the constant knit picking of him the bloggers on this site.
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
8:43 am
Good win for the Hawks. Guys stepped up, and they are playing good defensively even when the offense might come and go.
At Philly will be tough, especially with Philly coming off a loss to the Nuggets last night.
I like the effort though. And they appear to be getting stronger mentally.
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
8:47 am
However…we need another big. If ZaZa gets in foul trouble or is having a bad game, and we have to play Twin major minutes, we are in trouble.
Jason Collins last 5 games;
12 mins, 0 points, 4 rebs
3 mins, 0 points, 0 rebs
14 mins, 2 points, 3 rebs
13 minutes, 0 points, 1 reb
13 minutes, 0 points, 1 reb
With Collins on the court, we are essentially playing 4 on 5 when on offense. We need another backup big. Don’t wait until the Hawks lose 2 or 3 in a row. And we do have a very tough schedule next month.
And for thinking we are better off without Al, please consider that the Heat are 4-0 this season without Wade. So does that mean Miami is better off without Wade?
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
8:48 am
I know there are things Twin does that doesnt show up on the stat sheet, but we need more options at center depending on the matchups.
SoullRenaissance
January 19th, 2012
8:52 am
Smith.Leuer.Bogut
I’d trade Horford for just about any center right now.
YES INDEED – He is looking very expendable right now – dayum! Could we really have gotten a 1 year Dwight Rental for him?
Geemack
January 19th, 2012
8:52 am
Eastern Conference Finals or Bust……even without Al.
HoosierHawk
January 19th, 2012
8:57 am
Anyone remember when Memphis played so well in the playoffs last year without Rudy Gay? I like these Hawks.
Mac-Town #maconchevyrider
January 19th, 2012
9:04 am
oldmike, according to ESPN the attendance was 13,729
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
9:09 am
If the Hawks keep winning, this blog will go out of business.
J
January 19th, 2012
9:17 am
LMAO – somebody said bring back sheldon williams … i’m sorry but i think i just lost all respect for any post you have. HAHAHAHA!
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
9:20 am
Joe and Jamal had almost identical stat lines, but anyone who thinks Jamal is in the same discussion as Joe doesn’t watch the games closely and/or doesn’t know basketball. Joe was hands down the best player on the floor last night and made winning plays when his team needed them the most. I often opined that Joe was too unselfish to produce 24+ averages in a season. With Al down, he is showing that he can still big a big-time scorer when there is only one other 20-point type scorer on the roster. Oh yeah, and the pass back to TMac for the easy layup was beautiful and a clear sign that Joe is still willing to share the spotlight (that a the perfect lob to Jeff Teague).
I give him credit to Aldridge as I have never been a big fan and always considered him Chris Bosh-light. But he looks like he is much better than Bosh now and more inclined to physical play (while still having an effective face-up game). But he stayed in the post and made good decisions down there.
Didn’t LD play Vlad-Rad at SF when Marvin went down? Now all of a sudden he is an exclusive PF? Give me a break.
Now who was that who predicted this Hawks squad would be surprisingly good because of the balanced roster that includes players capable of playing on both ends of the floor?
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
9:40 am
@O’Brien
if only Ivan was about a foot taller…
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
9:42 am
people bash Joe Johnson and Josh Smith but right now the two are playing the best of there careers
Joe just seems to make big shots at big moments and Josh has become the team leader we have lacked for several years
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
9:43 am
@Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
“THEIR” carrers, sorry
hawks fan down under
January 19th, 2012
9:47 am
not much talk about Teague but I reckon he’s the biggest addition this year. the new bench is going great but Teague starting is the difference. I look forward to watching him get better and better.
Rufus1
January 19th, 2012
9:49 am
Is it possible we had too much TALENT…
Was the amount of TALENT on this team hindering the players growth. There was only one ball and everyone wants touches, but now they more touches and freedom.
This team is now built around 2 STARS and a bunch of good role players…..We haven’t missed a step and Josh and Joe are excelling.
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
9:50 am
i;m sorry Kirk Hinrich, but even once your healthy we gotta stick with Teague, he’s solid defensivly and he runs the offense so smoothly and seems to really fit well with the rest of the team
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
9:51 am
““Also a good reason why projecting Zaza’s per minute stats and implying that he would be equally effective in a starting role doesn’t work.” – Najeh
That requires actually trying him out as a starter.”
“But to suggest we need to trade away a player who has been in the top 10 in postseason rebounding rate 2 of the last 3 years (and who is the only player on that list making less than $10m per season) strikes me as a bit absurd.”
They have tried him out as a starter. He started the entire 2005-06 season and posted a rebound percentage of 15%. He started half the 2006-07 season and posted a rebound percentage of 14.9%. For comparison’s sake, Chris Kaman has beaten those rebound percentage numbers in every year of his career except his rookie year. I am using rebound percentage as a comparison because rebounding is the one thing Zaza does somewhat consistently well.
Zaza is a decent backup and a marginal starter. Kaman is a great backup and an average starter. That may not seem like a huge upgrade, but it can be the difference between a playoff spot and a lottery ticket. Of course if they can keep Zaza and acquire an upgrade like Kaman, that’s great, but you usually have to give up something to get something. Kirk + Zaza for Kaman is a net positive.
Trojan
January 19th, 2012
9:53 am
I am not a Sheldon fan but he is better than Collins. Look at Collins numbers in the post above, he is less than nothing.
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
9:56 am
@Najeh Davenpoop
I don’t like that trade.
first of all if your gonna trade centers, send off Collins not Zaza (at least Zaza brings some fire)
im not ready to trade Kirk Hinrich just yet although I think Teague needs to remain the starter. I still like him over Pargo as the backup PG.
I would like getting Kaman, but how about sending off Collins and Pargo instead
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:03 am
“The excuse that was made for Josh [somewhere in a previous blog], as to why he brings the ball is up because Mike Bibby was too slow to run with him/the team. With Bibby gone, Josh continues bringing the ball up. ”
This is true. In general, the excuses for his questionable decisions (too many jumpers, too much ball handling) are no longer nearly as valid since Bibby has been replaced with a living person at point guard.
Of course, if he continues playing like these last few weeks, I can live with a questionable decision or two.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:04 am
“I would like getting Kaman, but how about sending off Collins and Pargo instead”
Of course if you can trade lesser players for him, that’s great, but I doubt that New Orleans trades Kaman for Pargo and Collins.
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
10:06 am
@Najeh Davenpoop
probably true, Kirk and Zaza are just two guys I don’t feel like ditching right now
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
10:06 am
Zaza is better than kaman right now. Yeah. i said it.
Kaman is still arguably an elite scoring center, but zaza is a better rebounder and defender, quicker.
We dont need kaman’s scoring, diminished as it is.
If it will tell you anything kaman doesnt even start for the hornets!
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 19th, 2012
10:07 am
“I would like getting Kaman, but how about sending off Collins and Pargo instead”
________________
Well, when you dont live in a parallel universe, salaries have to match.
Still Laughing at Mike Bianchi
January 19th, 2012
10:08 am
@Bigman needed
amen on we don’t need Kaman’s scoring
we have 4 players near 20 points every night
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:12 am
“I think marvin would have a more aggressive attitude if he played with the 2nd unit because of his deferring mentality he plays timid when joe and josh are on the floor”
This may be true, especially if T-Mac is setting him up with shots. But if Marvin does what he did yesterday, he can stay in the starting lineup. Hit open shots, get to the free throw line, play good D, and crash the boards. Be the best damn role player you can be. That’s what the Hawks have needed out of him for several years now. Maybe he’s starting to figure it out.
Same with Zaza for that matter. Be the best damn role player you can be. Crash the boards, don’t turn it over, play good man to man defense (because we all know he can’t play help defense), and either finish when you get it near the basket or get to the free throw line. Both of them generally played well yesterday, except for that run Portland made in the second half.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:13 am
How can NBA.com not have last night’s box score up? Amazing, especially when you can get updates during the game.
Take a snapshot of the current conference standings! We are now seed #2.
Have we ever been on this pedestal this ‘late’ in the season?
JC1 sure showed up last night; you think he was uber-pumped to come back here? He had his moments too! Its a shame we had no salary for him, but life under the ASG is just that…you can’t expect them to go beyond their boundaries. But this team doesn’t appear to be missing him at all, and that might be based on this year’s bench not being solely dependent on his points. Trust is being gained by Pargo, Green, T-Mac, Ivan, and Zaza.
Should the ASG ever hang a banner, will it also include the term ‘tax-free’ to it?
Stretch, I hear ya man! It’s the norm when you are doing national coverage on the Hawks. All one-sided coverage. Our guys might as well not have their names on their jerseys…..Hawks highlight: “0 passes to 2, 2 looks at the clock, shoots for 3!”
You guys do know, the more we succeed, the more we keep our current regime in place? I have mixed emotions about that scenario. We might have the best GM in the NBA that we like to despise, yet things seem to be going according to plan so far. And LD has the guys buying into his schemes.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:16 am
Speaking of schemes, how does Hindrich coming back put a wrench into the rotation going forward? Does his complement this group we are throwing out there?
I know we need better, more dependable talent, because we won’t know if our guys will show up on a nightly basis. But as a unit, someone so far ends up producing. You just have to find that ‘hot-hand’.
As long as we’re winning, don’t count on Sund making any major inclusions to this roster. Right now, he’s probably thinking about who to pay for the entire year before that deadline comes up.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:17 am
Sorry, Hinrich…too easy to do that!
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:18 am
I am not talking up Kaman for his scoring. I am mentioning him because he rebounds at a similar or better rate than Zaza as a starter, blocks shots better, and is less clumsy and less likely to blow layup and dunk opportunities. Just as importantly, his contract is expiring, so he doesn’t add any long term salary obligation. If anyone can find another expiring center who may be available who would be an upgrade, by all means mention him.
drmaryb.[*_*].
January 19th, 2012
10:23 am
Fight Night!
I thoroughly enjoyed that Hermoine link of the bathroom troll. I’m not a movie, music buff and am embarassed to say, I have never seen a Harry Potter movie. I may go out today and purchase the collection of movie DVD’s to rectify that.
Thanks Poop, I’m also terrified of monsters and sleeping in the dark … but, I believe I can handle the Harry Potter trolls. LOL … I know i fight dirty and talk a lot of ish on this blog, but at the end of the day … I’m still a girl. Ha Ha
____________
Anyways, the hawks are growing up into a tough mindedm scrappy bunch. Ken Strickland has been yelling from the top of Stone Mountain for years … I can hear him now. Don’t get it twisted, we still need to do something with Al’s roster spot. IDK what, but something for insurance and hard times ahead, they’re coming.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:24 am
D12 is my guy until he finds a new home. We still need elite in this city.
There’s only one way to get elite based on where we are today: beg, steal, or luxury tax land.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
10:24 am
Kevin, in Woody’s last season, the Hawks were the #2 seed at the All-Star break in February. Remember, the eyebrow shaving incident? Pretty sure it was a goofy motivation ploy… “if we’re leading the SE division at the All-Star break, I will shave my eyebows”.
rollow lawson
January 19th, 2012
10:24 am
GO SIGN RASHEED WALLACE!!!!!
doc
January 19th, 2012
10:25 am
funny aj you bring up the pass back to teague. my thought when i saw it happen in front of me was a year ago we had a point guard who couldnt make unchallenged lay ups much less alley oops. teague and the versatility he brings is huge for this team especially now with horford out. glad they were forced to let him play. isnt that also what so many said, not to bench him and jerk him around like they did? find out if the kid can play by playing him. that cant be learned on the bench or in pretend games at practice. hmmm who said differently?
teague is what might be keeping this team afloat in comparison to last year. this team also does well for short stretches when one of its guns go down. we will see. away games start soon.
ivan is more of what we were hoping to get in sheldon fresh out of duke. he was out quicked last night by smith a few times, so he got to lean a little more about the nba.
my wish, is we had signed thomas instead of twin a few years back to a legit contract. however, i dont think thomas fit the vet minimum rule for entertainment value.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:26 am
I think now we could truly envision what D12 would look like in this lineup…..I think the lower bowl would be filled nightly!
Seriously though, does D12 lose annual salary if he doesn’t sign an extension prior to him becoming a RFA? I would think it would have to be a S&T for him to get a better max going forward?
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:28 am
AJ, thanks for that unforgettable moment in Hawks history…I totally let that one slip my mind….the visual? Well, we all know no one noticed because he was wearing his championship ring.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:30 am
Some people have mentioned Shelden Williams… I don’t think he’s an upgrade over Zaza, but he can probably provide more as a backup than Collins. 2nd round pick for Shelden is not a bad idea.
One other player, who may or may not be available but has been putting up good numbers in limited minutes, is Gustavo Ayon of the Hornets. I haven’t seen him play at all, but his numbers have been good. I doubt that he’s available for a 2nd rounder, but it’s worth a shot.
Other possibilities: Jordan Hill of the Rockets (has a team option next year), Ronny Turiaf of the Wizards (is on a one-year deal), Jason Maxiell of the Pistons (has a player option for next year), or Jamaal Magloire of the Raptors (one-year deal). Anybody up for a Kirk for Turiaf + Jordan Crawford trade?
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
10:31 am
“I thoroughly enjoyed that Hermoine link of the bathroom troll. I’m not a movie, music buff and am embarassed to say, I have never seen a Harry Potter movie. I may go out today and purchase the collection of movie DVD’s to rectify that.”
Haha… I strongly advise against it, because those movies are terrible, but that’s the first thing I thought of when “fighting trolls” came to mind.
doc
January 19th, 2012
10:32 am
aj, if they win at philly tonight i might shave my eyebrows. just like the pacers, i think philly is ahead of us; just like both were last year at the end of the season.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
10:33 am
Hawks clearly need a big body added and need Hinrich healthy. If another one of our top 6-7 players goes down for 1-2 weeks, we’re toast. IMO, the only trade that will turn this team into a true contender is one that will bring back a player better than one of our 3 captains, and that means trading away one of our 3 captains. With Horford hurt, that is highly unlikely to happen this season. Any other trade would likely allow us to “lose better” but won’t likely offer much else. Find a serviceable big body soon and look to see if something else is available closer to the trade deadline.
Kamen is a double treat. A good big man (rare) with an expiring double-digit contract. Under the NBA’s control, the Hornets will demand a premium in return for an asset like that.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
10:34 am
What would the Wiz take on to ’steal’ JaVale McGee? Averaging 11.5/10 right now and the Wiz aren’t going forward…..would we have to take on Rashard Lewis as well? Hmmmmm………
Would Sund then be looked upon favorably?
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
10:41 am
doc, how would the Lakers have done it, an alley-oop to Fisher? Doubtful. More than one way to score two points.
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
10:46 am
Lewis has got 2 yrs at 21 per remaining sowe would have to package marvin (wiz could use him), send hinrich back, zaza and vrad to get lewis and mcgee. Lewis expires next year freeing up a ton of space, but mcgee would be arestricted free agent. Intriguing deal. Mcgee is an elite defensive center and getting better, but i cant see washington giving up on him.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
10:57 am
McGee is an elite shotblocker which is different than saying he is an elite defender. He is physically gifted. That is about the extent of the accolades anyone can offer him after 3-4 years in the league.
And how many teams are wiling to trade their only center to a division rival?
Move on people.
doc
January 19th, 2012
10:58 am
aj, easy, they would have given it to the best player since mj or have gasol touch it in or bynum slam it down. i dont see anything close to that on our squad, do you? so we need more versatility. there were too many one trick ponies on this team, crawford, bibby and collins for starters, built on the small scale, not balanced, with no bench. i dont think fisher would thrive here either without all the pieces he played with in la nor have a ring, so what is your point? after all the whole of the summer prior to last season we both screamed on the blog, get hinrich once they had walls.
Rufus1
January 19th, 2012
10:58 am
Dr.Mary/ Doc,
Can they give Al HGH or Steroids to speed the healing process?
Maybe he can find Alex Gonzales/ David Ortiz/ Manny Ramirez Dominican trainer to help with that…. Or maybe Kobe/T-mac German “Doctor” can provide him some “special” treatment.
We are paying him 12mil a year, he needs to do what he can to return.
MattP
January 19th, 2012
11:05 am
What I am interested in is, if they are a tighter group with out Horford will they trade him now or would no one want him now?
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
11:17 am
Kirk going down has helped the development of Teague (LD was forced to start him, play him consistent minutes, and live with some of his mistakes). But it has limited the team’s trade options.
I think a healthy expiring Hinrich would have been a nice trade chip. However, it could benefit us in the long run if he comes back healthy. In the playoffs, I don’t know what to expect from Willie Green and Pargo, but I think Kirk can hold his own, so he gives us another weapon.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
11:22 am
doc, I agree that we had way too many one dimensional players int he past. That is why I was so optimistic about this year’s squad. I’m still not of the opinion that you can be both an elite team AND a non-tax paying team. I have not in the past nor currently have any faith in the Thunder (if anyone wants to offer them up).
Going back to my cheeseburger analogy… some folk still bent out of shape about when the cheese was added (Teague) or when the rotten tomato was removed (Bibby), but somehow, someway, this has been an above average burger despite the numerous alledged errors. I don’t know what the 2-3 weeks of the playoffs would hold… I personally value the several months of the regular season more than the 10-14 games in the playoffs. Its just entertainment, it ain’t real life.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
11:24 am
MattP, do you think the Heat should trade DWade? They are undefeated without him after losing 3 straight with him.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
11:26 am
BTW, do the Hawks get extra credit for winning a nationally televised game? No? Then who gives an ish how many people watch them win or lose a game?
yoursporthouse dot com
January 19th, 2012
11:32 am
Hawks drop in power rankings after winning 4 straight…
doc
January 19th, 2012
11:38 am
aj problem was that burger lost its freshness, was poisonous and with bibby would have been out in 5 is my guess instead of extending the season into a very fun extra few games that really shows what each team has. unfortunately, this entertaining part is just dress rehearsal for the real theatre which is what i really thrive on. most of the nba becomes relevant with each game having meaning during that season you dont put much value on. it is march madness the way we used to know it, blown up as big as bonds head and mcguire’s forearms on roids. i love 40 games in 40 nights concept on tnt, awesome! i would also like my team a part and sadly agree it wont happen below the mendoza line.
SteveW
January 19th, 2012
11:39 am
MC said, “Williams had eight rebounds and 12 points on eight shots in 21 minutes.” Yep. Forget he’s the 2nd pick. I’ll take that all day long from Marvin. Good support role.
Noticed Teague got some calls tonite on the drive he normally doesn’t get. Maybe the refs are starting to recognize him.
Such a shame, as much as LD has improved this season over last in some areas – and I give him props as maybe his biggest critic last season – that if Hinrich hadn’t gone down for Chicago, then this season, Teague would probably be languishing out of the rotation, and maybe even gone. Wow, sometimes things happen in life that make a positive, like that situation. I just hope LD doesn’t sit Teague when Hinrich gets back. Rest him, yes, but bench him, no.
Rev in Tampa
January 19th, 2012
11:41 am
I wasn’t at all impressed with Portland last night. The only thing that impressed me were all the steals. They made the Hawks look sloppy.
I think the Hawks could have played alot better – even without Horford.
I think the Hawks are a little better than we’ve given them credit. Its a shame Horford went down this year.
SteveW
January 19th, 2012
11:41 am
LD said, “Any combination I put on the floor we seem to have some kind of chemistry.” Very noticeable. We played 10 guys last nite, and that’s without Vlad Rad playing or Kirk. Deepest team since at least the 80’s maybe ever that I can remember for these Hawks.
SteveW
January 19th, 2012
11:42 am
Do need 1 more Big that’s serviceable – Daniels, ‘Sheed, Dampier, Pryzbilla, somebody, and then we’ve got an incredibly balanced team.
SteveW
January 19th, 2012
11:46 am
Josh said, “…;osing Horford. “I didn’t know how we would fare because he does so much for this ball club,” Smith said.”
Some of Josh’s supporters may not like Al, but Josh sure has made all the correct statements since he went down. Just sayin’, ya’ll don’t have to pilliory me – ya’ll know I like Josh.
Rev – The Blazers, at times, looked fast too me. Very quick team at certain positions. But JJ looks like the best on the break to me – one of the best in the NBA on the break – I like the ball in his hands on the fastbreak.
And if we could put Bibby’s brain in Josh’s body, you would have a player better than LeBron.
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
11:47 am
doc, I’ve moved on from every bad decision made in the past few years. I have even stopped harping on the decision to hire L and try to only focus on his game decisions (like we would any other head coach). Can’t change time. Bibby is gone (obviously a few years too latefor you), Teague is here (a few years too late for many), Jamal is gone, Hinrich will hopefully be healthy soon, etc. Time to focus on the here and now. Need another sevriceable big and for Joe, Josh, Marvin and Teague to continue to be aggressive.
ole richie
January 19th, 2012
11:49 am
josh smith is playing like hawks fans have always wished he would.
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
11:52 am
talks of breaking up Boston’s big 3 and going young have heated up..
how many mins can KG give you a night making 21 milli.. ?
does that deal bring you a ECF birth?
would a move centered around Marvin get it done?
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
11:52 am
*Marvin/Kirk
SteveW
January 19th, 2012
11:55 am
That above statement was not meant to be a knock on Josh – I always admired how Bibby always seemed to know exactly what to do with the BB – like he saw the game ahead of time. Josh is becoming a great ballplayer, but if he had that – wow!
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
12:01 pm
AJ,
Speaking of the Thunder, at 12-2, they lost to a Wizards team that was 1-12. Ouch.
PMC
January 19th, 2012
12:01 pm
Just keep winning Hawks. FTW!
Admiral Ackbar
January 19th, 2012
12:03 pm
ITS A TRAP!!!!
doc
January 19th, 2012
12:03 pm
yup aj, that was what i was doing saying how refreshing it was to see teague do that remembering the times bibby missed em at the very same basket below me on layups. in this regard we are moving ahead. pargo and green looked legit last night against what portland, with a rook, had to offer as well.
a competent big would fit the bill, or play ivan more there and see how he holds up. it is not like he doesnt have the same size as shels. funny last night i looked at ivan and thought i saw a resemblance to shels body, just better feet and hands. zaza just has no hands and though he plays hard it limits him.
O'Brien
January 19th, 2012
12:05 pm
bigdave,
The only reason I would trade for KG is because his contract is expiring. His skills have declined tremendously, and he has played aton of NBA games in his career. With this compressed schedule, we need guys who can handle it a little better, and I dont think he can handle the schedule or father time.
doc
January 19th, 2012
12:08 pm
btw, i think the thunder can take it as they have some nuggets below the waist, very good guard play, a scoring savant that stresses defense and bigs to the point they traded one away for a 2nd round draft pick i was salivating about. balanced, young and mean with a center who has been there against the best, now back in shape after knee surgery and if he had been healthy the big three in boston would have had one more ring to take to the grave. they are what we should have been, instead of entertainment.
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
12:18 pm
Ob..
i agree, he’s not all pro KG..
couple positives though aside from the freed cap.. you move Marvin Williams, you fee a lot better than running ZaZa out there night end and out.
KG has been effective when seeing mins at the C position..
depending on match up; Sf- Josh Pf-KG C- ZaZa or Sf-Rad/Mac PF-Josh C-KG
Section 303
January 19th, 2012
12:21 pm
I just read Michael’s blog from yesterday about Jamal Crawford. I like Jamal a lot. Was one of the people giving him a standing ovation last night. But, I think his the big shots he hit (Phoenix, Orlando, Game 1 Bulls series) overshadow all his poor shooting nights. He had a lot of them last season. And, really, the Game 3 heroic 3 he hit against Orlando, came on a night when Jamal could not hit a basket. Over all, he was brutal that game. He just happened to hit the big shot to clinch the game. Had he been more consistent that night, the big shot would not have been needed.
I think T-Mac, Pargo, and Green are way more consistent players. This is a big reason why the Hawks are 11-4 right now. That’s not even getting into how much better defenders they are compared to Jamal.
Jamal is a great person. He had some awesome moments with the Hawks. But, the Hawks are better off after letting him go.
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
12:24 pm
not to mention you make that deal primarily for a serious playoff run vs regular season..
given we have the perennial master of minutes/fouls of a head coach
bigdave
January 19th, 2012
12:25 pm
veteran minutes that is..
BigTimeTECHFan
January 19th, 2012
12:40 pm
Update: Keith Benson DNP , coach cut him preseason.
How come all other teams seem to find these new big guys and develop them in game, yet Hawks won’t give anyone a chance. Took Ivan Johnson to embarrass them on National TV to get playing time. Last night Dallas played they have new big guy who did pretty good. It’s because they let him play early in the season and now he impact the game.
Took Teague forever to get playing time and he’s making a hugh impact.
Anyway Hawks are looking pretty good. They are better team simply because Teague is big upgrade from Bibby. 2 seed with Horford, not sure now that he’s hurt.
Rufus1
January 19th, 2012
12:52 pm
“And if we could put Bibby’s brain in Josh’s body, you would have a player better than LeBron.”-SteveW
I’ll take Bibby’s brain in Teague’s body.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
12:54 pm
” I’m still not of the opinion that you can be both an elite team AND a non-tax paying team. I have not in the past nor currently have any faith in the Thunder (if anyone wants to offer them up).”
The Thunder will be a tax paying team once they extend Westbrook after this season. Westbrook and Harden are still on their rookie contracts. Either they both get extended or one gets traded.
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
12:58 pm
“Any combination I put on the floor we seem to have some kind of chemistry.”
…and both the starting unit and the bench have a legitimate point guard and/or playmaker (Teague, T-Mac). Coincidence?
Najeh Davenpoop
January 19th, 2012
1:02 pm
Just as I typed that last post, Westbrook signed for 5 years, $78 million.
Thunder still only have about $56 million in committed salaries to 11 players for next year, which speaks to how well Sam Presti has put together that team. But after next year, Harden and Serge Ibaka will be up for extensions, and at that point it is going to be close to impossible to avoid the tax.
Rufus1
January 19th, 2012
1:03 pm
“The Thunder will be a tax paying team once they extend Westbrook after this season. Westbrook and Harden are still on their rookie contracts. Either they both get extended or one gets traded”-Najeh Davenpoop
Don’t forget Ibaka and maynor.
Two are getting traded, because they can’t afford the LUX TAX. If they don’t win this year, they will be the western version of the Hawks…
The Truth
January 19th, 2012
1:42 pm
Kudos to the Hawks on a gutsy win, I was at the game and can testify that the backbone of this team w/o Al is still very good. That is because the backbone of this team has changed but not (currently) in decline. Without question, however, Al will be missed, but his double-double game is proving to be easier to replace than Josh or JJ all around game. As it stands now, the bench (by committee) is doing a fine job in filling the weaknesses of this so-called “soft team”. Frankly, I think the Hawks will be harder to game plan against because on any given night, different crème rises to the top.
Perhaps the toughest match-up problem for opposing teams will be a lineup with JJ, Josh and Tmac (assuming these players are on their game). I notice Portland started to double Tmac leaving Josh open. If Josh is in a zone, T-mac “balling”, and JJ “stroking” the offense of Al will not be missed. Again, though, if opponent game-plan is for that lineup in the 4th quarter, the Hawks is proving to still win in different ways with different players.
The maturation of Jeff Teague and the coach LD are also factors. Teague growth this year is showing up mostly in his BBIQ while LD is learning better how to mix and match players at the right time, in the right situations.
The chatter on this blog about a center upgrade is justifiable but I’m not ready to throw Collins under the bus yet. Does he score, no (not needed). Does he rebound, occasionally (but bench committee is filling the gap nicely). But Collins uniqueness that doesn’t show-up in the stats is lane enforcement. When he’s in the game, there is no “block parties” in the paint. Just his presence, discourages lane penetration. He’s better at that than even Al Horford. I’m sure the scouting reports for Jason Collins punctuates his ability to draw offensive fouls. LD is masterfully preparing him for his real purpose which is to stop D12.
Collins situational role might not be much, but it could be the difference between the Hawks advancing in the playoff or going fishing. Jeff Van Gundy commented last season that Collins defense against D12 was the best he’s seen all year. Remember also that Collins had other suitors pursuing him as a FA based primary on his D12 defense. So as this blog screams for a center upgrade, remember also, if there was one in the NBA it would require a near team blow-up to get him. That would be like cutting your noise to spite your face. In other words, you would cut some of your best players because you don’t like not having a better center. That would amount to checkmate for “the haters” and the foes.
I say “cherry-pick” a D-leaguer and move on.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
2:04 pm
Has there been something said somewhere that has stated OKC would not go over the luxury tax if needed? I haven’t read that nor have do I think their timetable is limited as much as ours.
We have been told by the ASG if needed, we will go over that tax. Today, do you think they are going to come out and say we are now in the business of winning a championship?
We can wish all we want, but we do not hear what we want to hear from the ASG…..a lot of hope and wishes for them to see the limited window we are approaching. OKC has more flex than we do and they have already proven they can get to the conference finals.
We haven’t proven we can beat ORL in the playoffs. That’s it!
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
2:09 pm
Agree with most of your post truth. Collins contributions do not really show up in box score never have. But he clogs the lane. D12 didnt have the post arsenal to dominate like he needed to.
But we have to get a better than dleague center. We’ve got the piece to do it: heinrich. Pargo did a great job backing up. There’s no minutes for henrich. Let’s get a chandler, defense first type in here, not a dleaguer project
We need a defense first center: chandler
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
2:10 pm
Chandler type- not chandler!!!!!
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
2:12 pm
Kevin, it was a little fortuitous that OKC played the 8th seeded team int he second round of the playoffs. We have yet to face a lesser seeded team in the conference semi-final round.
There is a little too much western conference envy on this blog. Portland heasn’t made it out of the first round since McMillan became the coach AND the Hawks have won the last 5 or 6 meetings against them, yet, they get crazy love on this blog. I never understood the reason… they are no more elite than the Hawks. They made a boneheaded draft decision in 2005, have been hard pressed to find a PG and mostly run iso plays in their offense.
I guess it is one of those “grass is greener” things.
The Truth
January 19th, 2012
2:24 pm
“But we have to get a better than dleague center. We’ve got the piece to do it: heinrich. Pargo did a great job backing up. There’s no minutes for henrich. Let’s get a chandler, defense first type in here, not a dleaguer project” – Bigman needed
If we can find one w/o blowing up the roster, than great. but if Sund didn’t do anything bold in the last 4 years regarding center help under the old CBA, the new CBA gives him more ammo to do what he really wants to do. NOT A DM THANG
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
2:32 pm
Jermaine O’Neal fits the model we need, but he isn’t leaving Boston. His last interview, he was talking about his role with Boston, and scoring wasn’t part of that.
Looking at the Detroit roster, I see one guy who needs some minutes and he’s one of those guys like DeAndre Jordan from a couple of years ago: a guy who needs minutes, but a rookie and needs time to learn.
The name I come up with: Vernon Macklin – Detroit 6′10″ 240…currently behind Monroe and Ben Wallace……here’s snippet of a scout report:
Reminds me of:
Plays a lot like former Gator Al Horford when he decides to assert himself on the backboards.
16/6 at Florida last year and Coach Donovan thinks he could be a handful at the next level. If he works at rebounding and develops a left hand, he will be formidable.
At least he fits the salary structure we have here…….
The Truth
January 19th, 2012
2:44 pm
“The name I come up with: Vernon Macklin – Detroit 6′10″ 240…currently behind Monroe and Ben Wallace”
KevinM, how would you compare him to Benson?
STRETCH
January 19th, 2012
2:48 pm
Some of my thoughts from watching last nights game:
If this team continues to pass the ball they are a hard team to guard.
JJ – Seems like he’s getting tired of people blasting him about that contract. He looked the role once again. He doesnt need to be a 25/10/4 guy everynight but most nights. Thats what the bench is for.
Josh – For every good play he makes, he make a bad one. (This dude scares me!)
LD – Stood there on the sidelines and watched a 13-0 run by the Blazers before calling a timeout. This dude scares me too!
Zaza has heart but NO hands!
The Bench came through again last night. Gotta give a shout out to those guys!!!
But im really worried about free throws when it gets to crunch time.
Also, Marc Stein dropped them like 5 or 6 spots just because Al got hurt, and they just won 4 straight.
They are just going to have to go out there and earn the respect. LD playing Sir Charles’ comments might have something to do with it as well. Sund, go get a BIG!!!!
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
2:52 pm
Benson not thick enough; I dont’ see that being an issue with Macklin…he has the 20-25 lbs that Benson needs.
Benson is a better spot up shooter, Macklin’s game is around the basket.
Macklin is 2 years older as well…..not that that is a big factor. I see Macklin able to help more now if needed. But being a rook, he needs those minutes to get him acclimated.
Can you get him for cash? Not usually the way deals are done, but perhaps a trade exception could be the incentive, if we still have that TPE active?
Rufus1
January 19th, 2012
2:56 pm
The Knicks are so DESPERATE…
They are chanting “We Want Woodson’’…He is the perfect coach for them and they have Bibby. It woould be nice to see Bibby guarding D12 in the paint after the switch.
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/knicks/it_getting_ugly_Z0Sf9Eu8Jt4zTKCMbyZg8M?CMP=OTC-rss&FEEDNAME=
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
3:00 pm
:Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
2:12 pm
Kevin, it was a little fortuitous that OKC played the 8th seeded team int he second round of the playoffs. We have yet to face a lesser seeded team in the conference semi-final round.”
Well, to play a lesser seeded team, you first have to be seeded high enough for that to happen…being a 4 seed isn’t getting it done.
Now going forward, finishing 1 or 2 is key getting a more favorable playoff run.
No West envy here…we have enough issues on our coast. But the ECF on your resume is what it is…and OKC doesn’t have our division to get through.
We aren’t getting any breaks in our setup.
Our synopsis should say if we finish 3rd again in our division, we should blow it up. That alone speaks about where you are in the conference.
We almost have to win the division to be a 1 or 2 seed….how tough does that make our journey. No one has us 1 or 2 coming out of our division.
We have a lot to prove and will have to do it for the entire season before getting any respect.
MattP
January 19th, 2012
3:03 pm
“Daniels, 27, who left the team Sunday to play in South Korea.”
I guess Chris Daniels is out of the question. I was hoping they would atleast go after this guy.
The Truth
January 19th, 2012
3:04 pm
I may be a bit too cynical but I find it hard to believe Detroit would help the Hawks, an ECF contender, to sharpen our run in the playoff.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
3:14 pm
Truth, we’re not a ECF contender yet…..what would DET ask for in this scenario? He was pick #52 last year….what is that worth?
This is where we are in dealing with the ASG. We can ‘hope’ for a bigger option, but we have to look on team’s benches to find a diamond in the rough….that’s how we ended up with Zaza and Collins.
But we also saw a decent college player, Randolph Morris, did with his skills after he turned pro.
Billy Bob
January 19th, 2012
3:17 pm
What do you mean they haven’t proved they can beat orlando in the playoffs? U must have forgotten how the hawks advanced last playoffs
Astro Joe
January 19th, 2012
3:21 pm
Kevin, OKC was the 4th seed last year. Memphis was 8th, and beat the #1 seeded Spurs. That left OKC with home-court advantage in the second round against the Grizzlies. Lakers & Mavs met in the other series. That is why I originally used the word “fortuitous”, because the Thunder did NOT have an “elite seed” to help them make their conference finals.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
3:38 pm
Yes, OKC got that 4th seed, but they also made a huge trade during the season to push them forward and make them a better team in the latter part of the year as well as in the future.
We didnt have a move like that in the years we were a 4 seed. And SA or Memphis, OKC could have played with SA as well as they did with Memphis….and they almost lost to seed 8 as well.
We underachieved last year durng the season, and we played the 4th seed, and couldn’t keep up the momentum with the 1 seed.
Seeds supposedly don’t matter in the playoffs, but I beg to differ. We felt like successes because we beat ORL. That was satisfying enough for us.
All you have to do is swing one road game in your favor…we did that, and that wasn’t enough to prevent the collapse. Are we better for it this year? I don’t think anyone knows….we can lose as easily as we can win….that’s where we are.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
4:32 pm
From a SI / Celtics article as to whether to blow up the Big 3:
“People might mention Atlanta’s need to free up money by dealing Josh Smith or Al Horford. But those players are the team’s best assets, the Hawks reportedly have tried to elbow their way into the Dwight Howard talks and, in case you’ve missed it, they are actually playing quite well as is.” (posted today at 12:43 ET)
Well, they are talking out in the open about how to move forward, because as they say, being around .500 is about the worse thing you can do.
KevinM
January 19th, 2012
4:35 pm
“Billy Bob
January 19th, 2012
3:17 pm
What do you mean they haven’t proved they can beat orlando in the playoffs? U must have forgotten how the hawks advanced last playoffs”
I didnt’ forget; I just typed it wrong…
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
6:18 pm
The celtics big 3 are done. They were probably done 2 seasons ago. We were sweeping that team jamal’s firstyr. We should steer clear and i think everyone will. Kg and allen contracts expire at end of season and thy can bring in a top FA
Bigman needed
January 19th, 2012
10:31 pm
Okafor 8 & 12 in 26 mins
And on the trading block! What is the hold up ASG?