Sund assuming nothing about Hawks right now
When this NBA season started, Rick Sund admitted he pretty much was like the rest of us. He didn’t know whether to judge the Hawks on three playoff wins or 45 regular season losses (as well as all those that preceded them). So he steered clear of sweeping changes.
He called this season, “a barometer.”
It’s late February and nothing has changed. The Hawks stood pat at the trade deadline. They are nine games over .500 (32-23). But any assumptions that the new general manager suddenly has his blueprint for the future would be a mistake.
The players aren’t safe. The coach isn’t safe. The team’s grade this season: incomplete.
When asked what the expectations of the Hawks should be moving forward, Sund paused, then said: “That’s a question that should be asked and answered at the end of season.
“My feelings are consistent with what I’ve said all along, that this season is a barometer. We’ll analyze it when it’s all over.”
Wise man. To take any other position would be a mistake. There has been too much baggage to assume success, and too many warning signs, even now. Josh Smith still can’t decide if he wants to be a superstar or an 8×10. Joe Johnson isn’t playing well and has been dragging since mid-Janaury. Mike Bibby, an impending free agent, has been carrying this team, which is good for his marketability but not for the big picture.
There is good news: Entering the weekend, the Hawks held a three-game lead over Miami for the fourth playoff seed in the East.
There is bad news: They are a sub.-500 team (11-13) since a 21-10 start.
If Mike Woodson was hoping for a vote of confidence, he is going to have to wait until after the season.
Understand, this is not merely another year in a building process for the franchise. This is the fork in the road. This season potentially has more impact on the Hawks’ future than any other since Billy Knight started bragging about cap space.
Sund didn’t hire Mike Woodson as coach. He only kept him – and even then only with a two-year contract. A one-year contract wasn’t an option. One-year contracts scream, “Coach on the Green Mile!” Woodson didn’t get the three- or four-year deal he sought, which would’ve suggested a vote of confidence, not a postponed decision.
For Woodson and everybody else, a first-round playoff loss isn’t going to get it done this time. Expectations have been raised. If they aren’t met, the potential ramifications are significant: Woodson could be fired. Bibby may not be re-signed. Johnson, with one year left on his contract, could start thinking about going elsewhere (especially given his chemistry with Bibby).
There are contract/trade decisions to make with Marvin Williams (who is up) and Josh Childress (who may return from Greece). And about Josh Smith: Do you keep hoping he grows up or start exploring trade options?
See how quickly this thing blew up?
When asked if this season will significantly impact his plans, Sund said: “That’s a good word to use.
“We have a lot of options – but that’s a good thing, not a bad thing. We’re like every other team in the league. Look at the Lakers: Kobe [Bryant] can opt out next year. [Steve] Nash and [Dirk] Nowitzki can be free agents in the next year or two. Everybody is keeping contracts short-term now. A lot of teams may be shuffling the deck.”
We’ve seen too much to presume stability.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Guides
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2009 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
67 comments Add your comment
Jt
February 21st, 2009
4:42 pm
Perfect approach for management to have. Key to Hawks- Falcons- Braves- successes is sound fundamental, calculated decision-making. Looking ahead, evaluating, seeing the big picture. Falcons seem to have found that in Dimitroff and Smith. Sounds like the Hawks may have found it in Sund- the jury is still out on Woodson. His defense first approach is great- his half-court offensive philosophy sucks. And the Braves? Well they have had that for many years- questions abound in recent years. Personally, I think Wren will prove to pan out- had a great teacher.
I like Sund’s open approach- we will see what will happen with this year’s Hawks version. I fear a first round loss (maybe even as the 4 seed home team). Too inconsistent. Something must change with them or changes will be made with them
Truth-serum
February 21st, 2009
4:45 pm
truth-serum
February 20th, 2009
6:46 pm
Mr. Sund thats a cop-out. The Hawks have already proven that they have reached the playoff level. You are just being cheap. Your not trying to win! Spend the money and get a center. No team goes to the next level with out a center. Your evaluation should be of what center is available not on whether this team is good on not. Thats an excuse not to reach to the next level…
I do like the Hawks. I have always been a fan. Having said that its time for a dose of reality. The Hawks like any serious contending NBA team cant win with out a center. It is the piece that they miss. Pachula is a liability clearly! How many turnovers does he have in the low post? Alot. Why cant he finish in the post? His hand are made of rocks. Hartford is an excellent powerforward…but never a center.
Every time the Hawks face a team that has a legitimate center guess who wins? The team with the center…This is a no brainer… a DUH?!?!! of major porportions.
Camby anyone?
How demoralizing is it to know that your owners/GM wont do what it takes to win? Very demoralizing to both players and fans!
With these facts clearly evidenced the Hawks although they are my beloved and a good team, will never be champions…Why? because the owners and General Managements arent Champions.
The only way we as fans will see a basketball champion is to watch one in another city……
O'brien
February 21st, 2009
4:50 pm
I appreciate all the work that Woody has done for the Hawks, and he seems to be a great guy, but I think we need a new coach to take us to the next level. Too many times he has said one thing, but not follow through. Too many times he refuses to make adjustments. And JJ continues to be top 2 in terms of minutes played, even when he is struggling.
The bad thing is regardless of our opinion about Josh Smith, Acie Law (and others), who knows what the results would be if we had a better coach, and a better offensive system. Maybe our players would be more developed.
Mr.Schultz, if I remember correctly, there were times last year when Woody would not answer your questions because of some of your articles and opinions. With the way our season has gone so far, what is your opinion about the job Woody has done this season?
googla
February 21st, 2009
6:08 pm
What’s an 8×10?
Harry Hawk
February 21st, 2009
6:11 pm
Truth-serum,
Sounds more like you’ve been smokin’ some wacky-tobacky. Who the hell are “Pachula” and “Hartford”? What is “General Managements”?
Look. I don’t care for our owners, but Sund hasn’t done anything yet to make me dislike him. However, not firing Woodson after a first-round playoff exit would make me dislike him.
ant banks
February 21st, 2009
6:25 pm
what is sund’s pedigree? his biggest splash as a gm was he got ray allen for gary peyton? wow!! i am not sure that he will know what to do next year,either.
now, hold on. SELF CHECK!! sund did wait until the 11th hour to re-sign smoove, maybe sund knew what he was doin’. smoove definitely didn’t deserve the 12mil he is gettin’. he balls like a mid-level player. we all screamed at sund durin’ last summer’s wait-and-see approach to signin’ smoove. actually, sund got that one right.
i stand corrected on my sund assessment
Stat Man
February 21st, 2009
6:39 pm
I can’t start to say how disappointed I am at Josh Smith. I have NEVER seen a player with such talent play like a complete moron.
What his shooting % from beyond about 12 feet? I’d guess about 10% – maybe not that much. Yet he keeps chunking those bricks up like he’s in the house building business. The capper came the other night when he was called for a lane violation – ON AN OPPONENTS FIRST FREE THROW. What a cement head.
I agree they had to sign him, but if you can get anything close to equal talent back – get rid of this guy.
Keith Strawn
February 21st, 2009
6:53 pm
Jeff, The new look is absolutely ridiculous.
The Fight Realtor
February 21st, 2009
6:56 pm
Shultz must be angling for some kind of acknowledgement from ESPN, which has eluded him for his entire career.
MannyT
February 21st, 2009
7:19 pm
Given the state of ownership, it is really a surprise that Sund is watching this season without making any significant moves. Who knows what the ASG can afford beyond sharp words for Belkin.
If we were 10 games under 500, Bibby would have been gone for a bag of chips and a draft pick.
A championship run and all those profitable playoff games, is worth a lot of cash. If you don’t expect to make that run cash is king.
By the way–Ant, Josh makes $10 mil this season, not 12.
BWAF
Big Ray
February 21st, 2009
7:33 pm
Sund is right to wait until the season is over to make some big decisions. We thought (or at least I know I did) that this past summer was the big one. This summer will be bigger.
Every GM puts his print on a team. None of them leave it the way it is for long (unless it’s wildly successful). Sund is smart. He has moves in mind, he’s just not sharing. And I can guess what they might be…
Timothy
February 21st, 2009
7:55 pm
That is a load of BS . . . if he doesn’t know what the team is by now, what in the world has he been doing since he was hired?
Kurt
February 21st, 2009
8:14 pm
Amazing how many people on blogs think they know everything and the organization knows nothing.
Waiting is advisable, and I agree Josh Smith has been a terrible disappoint. On the defensive end, he’s always looking for blocks instead of not letting people by him, and on the offensive end, he insists on taking jump shots when he’s terrible at them. He doesn’t hustle very much either, unless he’s looking for a dunk or block.
We have had a ton of injuries this year, which I think has slowed Horford down a bit, but he’ll still pan out I believe.
Marvin Williams, on the other hand, has been fantastic this season. His constant improve has been great to see. He may be worth more than Smith… he’s a good jump shooter, but quick enough and has good enough ball skills to drive to the basket, which he is doing more. Plus he’s a great free throw shooter, and he gets a lot of rebounds. Well done, Mr. Williams.
Patrick
February 21st, 2009
8:30 pm
I am very disappointed that the Hawks didn’t make an effort to improve the team at the trade deadline. Marvin Williams is a very valuable, young player in the last year of his rookie deal; I’d also be willing to bet that Atlanta doesn’t really want to pay him this off-season. This would have been a great opportunity to trade him (along with Acie Law, future first rounder, etc) into a veteran player (Caron Butler? Marcus Camby?) to get this team over the first round hump. Maybe trade Josh Smith for Andris Biedrins, they are both young, talented players making about the same amount of money, and this would allow Atlanta to slide Horford to his natural PF position. Anyways, I get the vibe that Atlanta was happy to stay put during the trade deadline, which makes no sense if the team is, as you described, at a fork in the road.
About Josh–I live about two hours south of LA, and generally the only time I bother making the trip up there is when the Hawks come to town. I went to both the Clippers and the Lakers game, and those two game basically represent everything I love and hate about him. Against the Clips, he dominated the game in basically every facet from tip-off to final whistle. He was in the passing lanes, disrupting shots, dominate in both the open floor and half court, and looked like far and away the best player on the floor. Against the Lakers, he looked listless, spent a lot of time wandering around half court, didn’t run hard in transition, lost his man on defense often, didn’t box out, and didn’t look engaged offensively unless the ball was in his hands. The player I most often compare him to is Carmelo Anthony, not because of style but because he has what appears to be unlimited talent, but the question remains about if the lightbulb is ever going to go off. Melo finally figured out this year that you have to play hard every trip down the floor to maximize your talent, here’s hoping Josh figures out the same.
troy
February 21st, 2009
8:54 pm
Like Timothy said above, is Sund doesnt know what this team is about by now, why is he the general manager. The real truth is he KNOWS, but atlanta spirit i guaranteed has told him not to make any moves until they find out whats going to happen with belkin. Here is my midseason assessment:
Joe Johnson: too many minutes, cannot carry a team, a role player getting too many minutes. defensive liability.
Mike Bibby: too many minutes, can carry a team, but shouldnt have to. defensive liability.
Josh Smith: a walking turnover, TRADE HIM. i didnt like when they resigned him during the offseason. singlehandly kills most Hawks rallys with stupid play. cannot dribble to his right. Negates his blocks and steals by giving the ball back to the other team.
Marvin Willaims: pleasant surprise. Has developed his game. Can shoot from outside and drive to the basket. Hitting boards lately also.
Al Horford: playing out of position. needs help in the post.
Zaza Pachulia: needs to come off the bench.
Mo Williams: great off the bench. Hustles and a good shooter.
Flip Murray: Attacks the basket. What more needs to be said?
A.C. Law: We dont know yet, he gets yanked too often.
Robert Morris: See A.C. Law.
Solomon Jones: I like him, shows flashes of being a good offensive player.
Mario West: Shannon Brown’s poster child. lol Hustles but we are out of the game by then.
Mike Woodson: Needs to go. Doesnt develop players, has no offensive philosophy and his team doesnt hustle and play defense, so what do they need him for?
Eric
February 21st, 2009
9:04 pm
For all the blame ex general manager Billy Knight took, he really left the Hawks in good standing financially. The New Orleans Hornets and reportedly four other N.B.A. teams are broke and dumping some of their best players. The bad move that Knight made in Speedy Claxton is coming off the books in 2009, so Sund is taking the right approach in waiting it out. He’ll have so many options come this summer, thanks to Knight.
Jeff Schultz
February 21st, 2009
9:21 pm
Hey, checking in.
JT: good comments.
Truth-serum: I disagree. Saying everybody has something to prove isn’t a copout. It’s not like this team (or this coach) is coming off championships or has much of a resume. You should not be judged by games in December or January but by the body of work – including the playoffs. I agree with Sund’s approach. And if the Hawks finish strong and win the playoffs, Sund’s job will be a lot easier and there will be plenty of praise to go around. It’s not like he’s rooting against his own team.
Googia: an 8×10, as in an 8-by-10 picture — as in not moving, as in – well that should do it.
Stat man: It would be a shame of Josh doesn’t get the most out of his talent, and on a consistent basis. I get a headache every time I see him lining up to fire up 3s.
Keith: I’m sorry. Are you suggesting a new wardrobe? Glasses? Botox? Implants?
The Flight Realtor: Uh, what?
Manny T: There’s not question that if the team was 10 games under .500 at the deadline, trades would’ve been made, and yes, probably Bibby. Fortunately that didn’t happen because he has been too important to this team.
Timothy: That’s an oversimplification. Sund’s just saying that decisions have to made on the whole body of work. What’s wrong with that?
Patrick: I think you’re misreading something. Sund held trade talks. Of course he would’ve made a trade if he thought it would improve a team. But you don’t make a huge trade that would take a key piece off a team that is 10 games over .500 at the trade deadline. That risks doing more damage than good.
Troy: You might be right about Joe wearing down. But remember he should be rested by now. He was sick and sat out 2 games, then had the All-Star break. But maybe it’s all catching up with him.
truth-serum
February 21st, 2009
9:33 pm
Harry Hawk, I apologize…did you get lost on my spelling? was it so bad you missed my point…? Gee what a guy. Yeah the management(check that spelling for me, while I deal with whats relevant) is lost as ZAZA(I hope that works for you). Horford is a forward filling in at center because ZAZAbrick-hand-turnover-pleasegivemeafoul-paschulia(check that spelling for me, since you clearly dont understand basketball, make yourself useful),cant play the position. In a perfect world Josh would be a swing forward and Al the power and wed have a 6-11 or 7.0 center who could alter shots and finish in the low post. The hawks will never win at the finals level or get there without a center. Koncak and ZAZA are twins. Why fire woodson when he is handicapped without a center? Unlike the BULLDOGS WHO HAD ALL THAT TALENT AND ONCE AGAIN CHOKED.At least give Woodson a team to compete with first. Bird-Brain
Patrick
February 21st, 2009
10:01 pm
“Of course he would’ve made a trade if he thought it would improve a team. But you don’t make a huge trade that would take a key piece off a team that is 10 games over .500 at the trade deadline.”
I mean, this just depends on what the expectations and goals are. If the Hawks braintrust thinks “Even if we make a move, we probably can’t get past the second round at best. Therefore, even if we could make a deal that would improve us short term, the payoff this season wouldn’t be enough to compromise the team long term. So we should stay put.” So, if that’s the mindset, the Hawks wouldn’t make a deal even if they knew for sure it would improve them for this season, if the improvement isn’t dramatic enough to make a noticable impact on how the rest of this season plays out.
As an example, let’s say Washington came to the Hawks and said “Acie Law, Marvin Williams, random minimum contract guy to make salaries work, and a lottery protected first rounder for Caron Butler.” I don’t think anyone could argue that the Hawks would be a better team for this season, as Caron Butler is a giant upgrade over Marvin Williams and Acie Law hardly plays. But it the Hawks looked at that deal and said “You know what, even with Caron, we aren’t making the Eastern Conference Finals, so let’s just hold onto our young guys.” So that’s an example of a mindset that would cause a team to turn down a deal that would improve the team, at least short term. I personally don’t agree with that mindset, and I think the Hawks are about one big piece away from being a real contender this year. And given how many teams were looking to shed salary, this would have been a great opportunity to get a high quality, veteran piece at below market price. Maybe that Caron deal I just made up wouldn’t have been enough to pry him away from Washington, but I’m sure there were other players like him that could have been acquired for the package I just mentioned(maybe Tayshaun Prince, for example.)
Like, being 10 games above .500 is nice for a team that has not had a winning season this decade, I get that. But, if this season ends with a first round loss, or if it ends with Mike Bibby walking this off-season because he’s heading towards the end of his career and he feels like this team will never be serious enough about competing for a championship, then it doesn’t mean a whole lot. Especially when you consider how the negotiations went last summer with the Joshes, I just wish Marvin had been shopped more seriously for the types of players I’m talking about.
Joe
February 21st, 2009
11:53 pm
I think the hawks should have made a trade during the deadline and they should have tried to acquire Tyson Chandler from New Orleans because even if he is hurt right now they could have used him next season at full strength.
Mike Bibby
Joe Johnson
Josh Smith
Al Horfod
Tyson Chandler
I would have loved to see this lineup the hawks could have given New Orleans Marvin Williams and Zaza Pachulia since his contract expires after the season.
Joe
February 22nd, 2009
12:06 am
Let’s just hope Rick Sund is not going to be another Billy Knight I know the hawks owner situation is bad but I hope they can do what they have to do in order to improve the team in order for them to take it to the next level and be a premier team in the eastern conference and not just settle for trying to make the playoffs and lose in the first round.
This Just In
February 22nd, 2009
1:58 am
This just in. Troy is an idiot.
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
2:58 am
Hey Joe, you’re an idiot. Chander was traded but he failed his physical. That’s who’s gonna push the Hawks over the top, huh?
Frank
February 22nd, 2009
5:46 am
Here’s a nice NBA site-
http://crashingtheglass.com
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
8:44 am
The Hawks have proven that they are a good team. The bar for Woodson was to take these rookies and make them to a decent team. Hes done that. They are competitive and show up to play most nights. The playoffs against Boston lifted us a state/city. That is now said. The are not a great team. They are among the youngest in the NBA and have a lot of room for growth in front of them yet. Dont lose sight of that. All of the parts are interchangable inclulding joe johnson. The teams mvp right now is Bibby, clearly and the hawks cannot compete with out that outside shot. No one else including joe johnson is consistant outside. It is very possible that because of ZAZA is such a liability or handicap it allows teams to rotate out to johnson and take away his out side game.True as that is great players create shots off the dribble.
Pachulia is a scrub. Im sorry. Id like to cheer for him but he cant finish inside and nobody is intimidated by his presence….what is he good for? My point is, you cant take this hawks team any further with out a bonified center….DUH?! Woodson is a good coach and most nights has this team competing, (which is the sign of sucessful coaching), although he is outmanned at the post. Harford is a forward who can play the 5 position better that ZAZA but he is still a forward. He’ll be a superstar back at his position.
Jeff Schultz I normally ignore you because I see you as a racist. Your attitude toward Michael Vick,and David Justice confirmed your prejudice for me. You are highly opinionated but your views have never lead to a superior team in the ATL.Your views on the hawks wont either.Stop calling for Woodsons firing and call for a center. I find it hard to talk to a man I dont respect. I wish the Hawks well. Go Michael Vick!!! Sports is larger than wins and losses. Champions are created by how they invest in others to better them as people. Your cold heart did not show that compassion for Micheal Vick. You responded like most pagans: wisdomlessly. Micheal Vick is a better quarterback and talent than that rookie guy with the falcons who led the league in handoffs to TURNER AND NORWOOD!
Eddie
February 22nd, 2009
9:10 am
Let’s not forget how awful the Hawks have been that past 10 years! For now they are a solid team. However, J. Smith is probably the most over rated player in basketball. Time to move on there! Woodson should already be an assistant somewhere else?? The Hawks have a solid core to build around in Horford, Johnson and hopefully Bibby. Now lets go get a coach that will match their abilities and some inside help for Horford. Hawks will lose in the first round of playoffs I believe?? Good but not great, yet.
Jeff Schultz
February 22nd, 2009
10:31 am
Patrick: Did I miss something? Was that trade offered? Secondly, I think there could be some debate as to whether Marvin and Acie are key components of this team. Again, GMs generally are not going to mess with chemistry unless they’re convinced there’s a great offer on the table.
Joe: You make trades to help you now, not next year. Unless you’re selling off players to shed salaries and get back picks/prospects – like our hockey team in town.
Truth-serum: Al Horford arrived great and is great. Acie Law hasn’t progressed. Josh Smith – talented but up and down. Marvin – getting better. I don’t know if I would give Woody a higher grade for developing young players than a B-. Your thoughts? …. And by the way, do your research before you call somebody a racist. I think David Justice is/was great. As for Vick, everything I wrote about him was positive until his lack of maturity started to come through and then, of course, the dog-fighting stuff. I believe in compassion but I also believe in personal responsibility. Can’t have one without the other.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
11:19 am
Jeff Schultz I wish you had this principle about personal responsibility when it comes to reparation for slavery,segregation and racial oppression. You view is one of convenience. So Michael Vick was an arrogant boy/young man who fought pitbulls for sport,which was a misdemeanor until may of 2007. You crucified him for that. You want him and others to make the players around them better but do nothing to let them grow and get better. Do play morals with me. You have none. You would swallow a camel then Strain at a gnat. Matthew23:24
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
11:21 am
Schultz thats dont play morals with me…..typo in case harry hawks is out of his cage.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
11:38 am
Jeff Schultz After rereading your statements here. Its clear that you dont understand patience with young men who have not had the “white” experience. Or perhaps youve become old and can no longer relate to the “next” generation, as in Josh, Marvin and Harford. You remind me of John McCain in being out of touch. I hope you dont have too much influence with the Hawks. They could never win with you incharge. You could never build a winning team because you are intolerant and impatient. Have a nice day.
Freshmaker
February 22nd, 2009
12:04 pm
Reporting truth-serum for being an idiot. Hope he gets banned.
OMG
February 22nd, 2009
12:39 pm
Wow, truth-serum, racism goes 2 ways. Obviously you aren’t aware of that and expose yourself as a racist yourself. Please explain this “white experience” and how not having it makes you unaccountable for your actions. Unbelievable.
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:43 pm
Hey truth-serum, reparations? I know Obama is president and all, but dream on. That’s one “change” that will never come. “No you can’t! No you can’t!”
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
12:46 pm
Freshmaker
February 22nd, 2009
12:04 pm
No problem. Just because you silience my point of view from your ears or eyes doesnt make it cease to exist. You only fool yourself when you ignore that others dont share your views. Actually you dont have to worry, because I normally just ignore you anyway. Go Michael Vick!!! You will always be loved.
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm
Truth-serum
If such a video existed, I’d love to see your reaction of Vick slamming dogs to the ground, drowning and electrocuting them and throwing family dogs into the fighting pit.
At that point maybe, just maybe, you’d stop playing the tired old race card that now has no credibility since there’s a multi-racial president.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm
I wonder how many other non rednecks have you banned for disagreeing with your view.
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:53 pm
Truth-serum,
You are a miserable soul and it sucks to be you.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
12:54 pm
Vick is a better quarterback and talent than that rookie guy with the falcons who led the league in handoffs to TURNER AND NORWOOD!
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
12:56 pm
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm
Im sorry you feel that way.
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:56 pm
And once again, Truth-serum ignore all the stuff about Vick that federal authorities didn’t.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
12:59 pm
Micheal Vick fought dogs,Kill him, crucify him,right after this bloody session of the ultimate fighter….
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
1:02 pm
So Michael Vick was an arrogant boy/young man who fought pitbulls for sport,which was a misdemeanor until may of 2007. You crucified him for that. You want him and others to make the players around them better but do nothing to let them grow and get better.
OMG
February 22nd, 2009
2:06 pm
You can have your opinion on Vick, and while I think it is misguided in terms of his ability to QB the Falcons, I do respect the difference of opinion. I may even agree that his treatment by the government, media, and general public at large is over the top and unfair.
However, I want to hear more about this, as you call it, “white experience” which would have such a profound effect on young black athletes. You belittle all young black athletes that have made the correct choices in life by making such a broad, sweeping statement. Give a black man some credit for what he’s done right, instead of excuses for what he’s done wrong.
Grip
February 22nd, 2009
2:14 pm
Very few young players mature as fast as “everyone” wants Josh Smith to. The reason that this team is not doing better is because it is not a finished product. There is no big man who can defend the post or score some “big boy” buckets!!!!!!!!!!!! How can one judge JJ or Josh Smith without them having a big guy in the paint to work with, I say keep him, but one thing for sure either Josh or Marvin has to go. A helluva trade would have been Brad Miller for Marvin and Pachullia, Brad would play the other big guy freeing up Horford and Josh and he can shoot the rock, helping off set the loss of Marvin. Rick Sund blew this one, excuse me ASG blew this, Why sing Marvin back and we still do not have a center???? Our cap is depleting by the minute, think forward and move swiftly. The dude can play and he is white, he fills all kind of voids for the hawks. Bottom line the ASG is killing my team. PS Rick Sund has been a forgettable GM for ever
Jeff Schultz
February 22nd, 2009
3:44 pm
Grip — I agree that not having a true center handicaps the Hawks. Imagine then how good Horford would be. But having a center won’t stop Josh from pulling up for the 3 when he should be within 10 feet from the basket, and a center also won’t stop him from drifting off to sleep. That’s a Josh problem that needs to change. … JS
JSS
February 22nd, 2009
3:57 pm
Personal responsibility in OUR NATION is pleading guilty, doing the time, and ultimately coming out of the institution having served ONE’S penance to society… So here is the difference, Jeff Schultz and his ilk do not believe in crime (the committing of such acts, the adjudication of such acts, and the payment in terms of State sanctioned punishment)… For time and memoriam, and you can bet the house on this one; Jeffrey Schultz will hold Michael Vick over a pit of fire as if he is GOD, Yahweh, Siva, Allah, etc… etc… He GETS OFF of this the same way, a pedophile gets off on having power over defenseless children… The same goes for John Kincade…
Benny the Beaver, want me to call Woody and see he is willing to loan your gonads for next weekend?
dap01
February 22nd, 2009
4:43 pm
Truth Serum: You need help. Let’s talk about the Hawks!
Jeff Schultz
February 22nd, 2009
5:25 pm
JSS: I hold nothing against Michael Vick when he comes out of jail. He will have served his time and has the right to pursue employment and live his life like the rest of us. But let’s not make this out to be that he volunteered for prison or something. He continuously lied about his involvement and eventually was forced to plea. He had no choice. It’s not like his conscious suddenly got the better of him. But if he comes out of this a better man, I will support all of his rights that are afforded the rest of us.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
5:36 pm
JSS
February 22nd, 2009
3:57 pm
Well Said!!!!! Touche’ To act as if racism doesnt exist in sports,sports writing or journalism is ignorant. It is one of the reasons we will never have a championship team here, in any sport. David Justice and Micheal Vick made that clear. The sports culture hes is rednecked.Guys like lance armstrong and A-Rod and Roger Clemens are drug users and get a hand slap, a warning and back to work. A young man like Vick gets crucified.The Young man has done his time and should be given a chance to win his job back. Shultz, If your morals were where you say they were this would be the case. Youd support that.
I do agree with you, however that Josh is no long range shooter and hurts the team when he does that.That is from inmaturity in his game, something he’ll grow out of if you have patience. His assests outweigh his liabilities and therefore worth the time investment. Not so with Pachulia. ZAZA’s inability to finish and his turnover prone rock hands is not something hell grow out of. He poses no defensive threat.
I agree that Acie Law hasnt developed much but you must look at his time in the leaque. 1 or 2 years behind Bibby is not going to get you far. He is a young man and again I stress patience…these are boys..and young men…The reason Woodson is the right fit is that he has patience and fatherly disciple to guide this team. Acie may be in the dog house now but woodson is a forgiving soul and will give a second chance. He is more concerned with growth of a person heart to maturity than condemning a soul to destuction…..Shultz, somethings are more important that money and winning a game.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
5:38 pm
Shut up DOB
February 22nd, 2009
12:51 pm
Do you have video of the ultimate fighter most bloodiest battles? Why would you choose a name like Shut up DOB?
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
5:39 pm
correction thats bloodiest battles
Reggie
February 22nd, 2009
5:41 pm
Jeff
In your opinion why is Josh Smith so inconsistent from game to game? What do you see in Al Horford as far as upside? I agree with this article. If the hawks can hold on to that 4th seed & win a round keep the core & try and see if you can trade for a Center. If not what I would do is call the Suns and see if a package of Josh Smith, Acie law, & Speedy Claxton{contract expires in 2010} ,and see if you can get Amare Stodemire in return. Thoughts?
JSS
February 22nd, 2009
5:46 pm
Volunteered, he could have Nichols and dragged this out for years… He had a choice, and right or wrong, he took the lesser evil (in some eyes) … Like Vick (and the crime he committed), your actions speak louder… You and John Kincade will show your coats of many colors just as you always do… A lie by any admission is still a lie… So it takes one to know one, a sure you know how to tie one on… HACK!!!,
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
5:57 pm
OMG
February 22nd, 2009
2:06 pm
I read your statement and believe you are being honest and fair as you can be. Therefore I will respond to you. The white experience is differenced from the Black experienced. When Babe Ruth set the home run record no one chased him around or threaten him based on the color of his skin. White people here have never lived segregated, but were free to go as they pleased. My Dad got the bronzed star and purple heart in the korean war but was forced to serve in areas based on his skin color. It is impossible for humanity to deny what racism has done to the black person in america. Although you may deny it or try to diminish the realities of its affects, most black will tell you they have had a different experience here in America than has whites. White have experience life here as the ruling ethnicity and blacks experienced, slavery, segregation, oppession,lynchings and more. As a result of that many blacks see things different because their perspective of experience is different. A perspective that is in politics and sports as well.Thats what I mean.
GO HAWKS!
chris
February 22nd, 2009
5:58 pm
The Hawks are and have been a flawed team, with people playing out of position and an on again , off again comittment to effort.I have never understood the heavy minutes played by a few, and the hot and cold play of Josh Smith .I would expect that regardless of how far the Hawks go in the playoffs, we will see changes in the off season.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
6:06 pm
Grip
February 22nd, 2009
2:14 pm
100 percent agree with you on the assesment..the question is why do you mention that Brad Miller is White..Is there a quota here? We have to get a white center? Cant we just get a good center? By the way that would be nice to have Brad here.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
6:16 pm
Jeff Schultz
February 22nd, 2009
5:25 pm
Its a little late for that now… I wish youd had that view all along. I wish you were more concerned with his developement as a human than with crucifying him. Its bad to fight dogs for sport. There are worst things a person can do. Lets move on and wish the Hawks well. I appreciate your comments.
Truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
6:27 pm
Jeff Schultz
February 22nd, 2009
5:25 pm
Wasnt there a lady track star named Marion who confessed her sin of steriods use and got ruined professionally. You were silent then. Almost as silent as you are about Clemens and lance Armstrong…Yeah its a different experience. Whats your latest attempt to crucify that Bong smoking swimmer guy…. Oh my bad hes white Lets not start the presses…this will blow over.
Hip Hopcracy
February 22nd, 2009
6:44 pm
Blaming racism as your impediment to success is the ultimate cop-out. Grow a set and take responsibility for your life and your actions. As a white man, I have been confronted with unfairness and failure just like you. I just don’t get to cry “racism” as the underlying reason.
Strange how you bring up racism on a sports blog where 83% of the players are of color. Not to mention that ALL of them earn more in one season than most of us make in a decade.
Barack Obama’s black half would be ashamed of you.
truth-serum
February 22nd, 2009
7:06 pm
Hip Hopcracy
February 22nd, 2009
6:44 pm
You are right Mr Hipocracy. Blacks have overcome a lot of oppressive experiences. Im sorry that you are a failure. I wish someone had oppressed you. That may have brought out your superior qualities. No one did so you have no excuse for your failure. I wish they had then you could at least blame your failures on them. I dont want to be insensitive to your failures in life. I wish I could provide you a reason for them. Im sorry you are broke and jealous of well paid athletes. I wish you were in better shape (not round) then you could be an athlete and make money. I wish you could be something…other than a cynical sorry scrub failure.Captain loser.
Hip Hopcracy
February 22nd, 2009
7:45 pm
truth serum
I find it hard to talk to a man I dont respect.
Sound familiar?
T.J.
February 22nd, 2009
11:49 pm
I guess he’s headed in the right direction but getting a vet big man wouldn’t kill us!
http://www.hawksportal.com/forum/
BA
February 23rd, 2009
4:54 am
This is a nice NBA site-
http://crashingtheglass.com
Blot
February 23rd, 2009
1:48 pm
I used to believe in Josh Smith but after this season it seems he has stepped down after getting his contract (despite promising the opposite). I think the duck (aka marvin williams) should have a longer future here now. Smith is as good as he is going to get imo and should be moved now while the knees are still good. I would like Chandler but pairing up Smith with CP would make us look terrible as CP would make him a 20 10 man easy…
I’ve been in love with Joel Prezbylla (wow i suck at spelling – its the blazers guy) since he came here for 10 games in the SHeeed fiasco. Smith, ZAzzzA, for Rudy, Joel, conditional pick and cash considerations. Do it. Do it now lol.
P.S. Resign bibby. maybe the bad economy will help in getting his old glorious self signed cheap…
How they really rank, from Falcons to (duh) | Jeff Schultz
February 23rd, 2009
2:26 pm
[...] 5. HAWKS (5): Rick Sund admits he still isn’t sure what to make of the team. March (when the Hawks play 12 of 17 at home) needs to be better than the last two months (11-13). [...]
Earth to Josh Smith (and OK, here's another hottie) | Jeff Schultz
February 24th, 2009
12:06 pm
[...] Smith. Oy. I touched on this wonderful athlete/maroon (copyright: Bugs Bunny) in a column Sunday. Either he doesn’t realize how good he is, or he knows how good he is and he figures the rest will [...]
Grip
March 7th, 2009
6:02 pm
We are in a great situation. We can sign Marvin back, bring Childress back and deal him for a point guard of the future or a big, and trade Josh Smith for a point guard or a big also, extend Flip Murray and go from there. This would only be a slight increase in the team Salary Cap, how about Josh Smith for Maurice Speights or better yet Elton Brand, he will not work in Philly and get a serviceable PG for Childress, If Bibby cost too much do a sign and trade with him, with forward thinking this team can be salvaged.It has more pieces than most ;Bibby, Joe, Marvin, Horford, pryzbilla, (what ever else we get for Josh Smith) Flip, Mo Evans, Pachullia, that is four off the bench and what we get for childress/ Josh Smith for Pryzbilla, In between these players we can have a nice team and meet the Spirit groups requirements, RICK SUND is on DECK