Drew finally speaks to Joe Johnson, and he wants him back
For the first time since getting the Hawks' coaching job . . .
Larry Drew was tired late Thursday night, so tired that, as he said, “One of my bulbs is out and the other one is blinking.”
But the new Hawks coach was happy for two reasons: 1) The team had drafted Xavier’s Jordan Crawford, whose game tape makes Drew light up; 2) For the first time since he was named the team’s head coach, Drew said he finally got a return phone call from impending free agent Joe Johnson and the two spoke about the future.
“It was encouraging,” Drew said. “Joe’s not going to tip his hand. But we had a good conversation. I had left him a couple of messages and
. . . Larry Drew spoke to Joe Johnson. (Curtis Compton/AJC)
Joe did respond back, and I was happy that he did.”
Drew said he was sitting in his Philips Arena office on Monday. His phone was on his desk and he had left for a minute to go to the restroom. “When I was in the restroom I heard the phone vibrate on the desk. When I got back there I saw who it was and I quickly picked it up. I was hoping it wouldn’t say, ‘Call missed.’”
Re-stating the obvious: Drew wants Johnson back. He told him that: “The one thing I said was I totally respect his position in the free agency market. There are teams that want him and will do everything they can to entice him, and I said we want him even more.”
He is aware that the fan base is somewhat divided on Johnson, given some poor playoff performances and his comments following a loss during the disastrous Orlando series. Johnson and the team were booed loudly during a Game 3 blowout at home, setting up the likelihood of several empty seats for Game 4 and prompting Johnson’s comment: “We could care less if they showed up.”
Drew believes Johnson regrets those comments and would like to make amends for his playoff showing.
“I know he’s disappointed about his performance in the playoffs,” he said. “Joe would be the first to admit that he didn’t play Joe Johnson basketball. Then the comments that he made afterward, I spoke to him briefly about them. I told him, I’ve seen interviews with Kobe [Bryant], I’ve seen interviews with K.G. [Kevin Garnett] after bad games. Both guys made the comment, ‘They should’ve booed us.’ That’s the way I would like to see him handle it. From what I was told, it was kind of misunderstood how [Johnson] meant it.”
Drew reiterated how he wants to add “movement” to the offense and get away from the isolation plays with Johnson that have plagued this team. “Movement makes them harder to defend,” he said. “Our biggest problem last year was we became a stationary team at times. I want guys to move freely. I want all five guys to be a threat. At times we got a little bogged down, standing around, playing a little bit too much one on one. We were stagnant.”
He thinks Crawford, whom he watched on tape for the first time two weeks ago, will fit in his offense well: “He has an uncanny ability to score. He looked like Jamal [Crawford] out there. He has a quick first step. He’s elusive with the basketball. He can make shots. He can just flat out score. I just love a guy who can break a defense down. They make it easy for other guys.”
Nobody knows if Johnson will be one of the other guys. But at least he’s phoning back.
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119 comments Add your comment
Reid Adair
June 25th, 2010
9:52 am
It’s one thing for the new head coach to “believe” that Joe Johnson regrets his comments and his poor performance; it’s another for the man who was directly involved to at least attempt to make amends for his actions.
I still don’t want to see Joe Johnson in a Hawks uniform next year. I realize that I’m probably in the minority with that opinion, but that’s the way it is.
bone
June 25th, 2010
9:53 am
OMGGGGGGGG JOE RETURNED THE CALL? HES A HUMAN? I DIDNT KNO THIS
bone
June 25th, 2010
9:55 am
OH and word on hoops hype is that jCHILLZ is signing with the wizards in the next few days
TommyJack
June 25th, 2010
9:58 am
Sorry, I couldn’t give a rat’s azz about the NBA. But I’m a Schultz fan nontheless.
BDowning
June 25th, 2010
10:04 am
Very Good sign that joe and coach drew talked…Listen I would love to see the hawks sign joe. Who else can we get to fill his shoes. A new coach, new scheme, an improved desire to get the ball to josh and al, using teague in the right way. I like it. Just a thought… how bout signing kurt thomas and use him as a back up power forward and center? He played horford tough in the playoffs.
James
June 25th, 2010
10:17 am
This dude is saying all the right things–let’s see if he can do them, too. I’m willing to give him a chance! Go hawks!
Bob Didier caught here
June 25th, 2010
10:22 am
Any chance we can make a trade for that gifted big man Kwame Brown??
JRo
June 25th, 2010
10:26 am
Thanks for letting us know you have absolutely nothing to add to the conversation, TommyJack. Don’t we still have the rights to Childress? I think Drew might turn out to be a descent coach, though it’s always difficult to become THE authority figure when you’ve been more buddy-buddy with the people you are going to be managing for such a long time.
lyric82
June 25th, 2010
10:29 am
TommyJack,
Seems like your upset that your a greeter at walmart and not making millions like these physically gifted young men. Im sure if you had any athletic talent in your body at all, you would not pass up the opportunity to join the thug nation.
Jeff Schultz
June 25th, 2010
10:34 am
Reid — I think it’s 50-50 on whether Joe is back. I realize that’s not going out on a limb.
Jeff Schultz
June 25th, 2010
10:35 am
Bone — Wizards don’t have permission to talk to Chills. It would be tampering since Hawks own his rights. Report out of Greece was erroneous (at least for now).
Remarkable
June 25th, 2010
10:38 am
We have a team. Others will have pieces of a team. If we can resign JJ, the Hawks may have an advantage over several of these teams that have gutted their teams for a chance at a superstar. Add a draft pick and pick up a free agent center and we will be ready to take on most of these other teams. . .
Remarkable
June 25th, 2010
10:40 am
Jeff, will Childress ever play a game in an Atlanta uniform? Will he be a starter and in place of who?
ASHCAN.
June 25th, 2010
10:47 am
@James, any coach but woodson.Now i like woodson but he had no offensive plays just out of time outs.I think drew will make all 5 starters on the court better with real play calling threw out the game instead of just time outs.The guy created his own offense and displayed it for the owners.I wonder what the name of it is called?
TheAntiMe
June 25th, 2010
10:48 am
I don’t know what Joe Johnson is thinking about where he wants to play next season but I do know that if he got his iddy biddy feelings hurt by the fans here in Atlanta, then he is going to have a nervous breakdown when the fans in Chicago and especially the fans in New York get on his case if he decides to go with the Bulls or the Knicks.
Glenn
June 25th, 2010
10:58 am
Wow ! They talked ! We won’t offer Joe a max contract ( and shouldn’t ) . Someone will . I will bet a ham sandwich to any taker that Joe & Lebron wind up in Chicago holding hands all giddy to be together . They will be unbeatable as well .
Gamer
June 25th, 2010
10:59 am
Joe Johnson is probably going to miami, boston or chicago for same amount of money that he could get from the Hawks with a deeper playoff run on a better all around team.
jlewis
June 25th, 2010
10:59 am
JJ is not coming back to atl, the guy played 40 minutes a game, played hurt, played sick and basically carried this team for 4 years. The guy never got arrested, dui, anything, he makes one mistake, and what he meant was “its not about the fans, its about us, we have to play harder”. Yet his heart and leadership is questioned because he doesnt hit his chest when he scores or runs his mouth or makes excuses. Its a reason free agents wont come to atl and the ownership is not throwing money into the team because the team plays in an arena with fans disguised as empty seats.
TONE
June 25th, 2010
11:01 am
the only place JJ can go with a chance to win and be the Man is ATL.
i am a master of stating the obvious
that being said he is just like the top tier free agents he is first in line in the 2nd tier waiting to see what Lebron does.
hasn’t chicago freed up enough money to where they can sign 2 or three big money free agents ?
james , bosh , and JJ nah I don’t think JJ could stand being the 4th option
he is coming back to ATL
CJ
June 25th, 2010
11:01 am
Jeff, what are the chances that Pape is ever a Hawk?
Scoots
June 25th, 2010
11:03 am
Jeff-
With the $3 million the Hawks got last night, how much $$ do they have to play with in free agency? I’d like to see them sign Joe, but even more so want to see them get a legit center.
Mitch
June 25th, 2010
11:09 am
Even though JJ called LD…it’s hard to imagine he will be re-signing with the Hawks. LD showed him the love and has a better plan for everyone in the offense…but that plan may not be all that attractive to JJ. JJ is going to get big offers and my guess is he will wind up playing in New Jersey for Avery Johnson and along side of Devin Harris and Brook Lopez. Not sure if the Nets have a player that the Hawks would want in a sign and trade, as they’ve been clearing the roster for cap room.
Even so…what do you Jeff and my fellow Hawk fans think about this off-season plan?
1. Sign & Trade: F Josh Childress to the Wizards for F Al Thornton.
2. Free agent signings: 1G Nate Robinson; 2G John Salmons; PF Craig Smith; C Ilgauskas.
Depth Chart:
1 Teague/Robinson/Bibby
2 Crawford/Salmons/Crawford
3 Williams/Thronton/Evans
4 Smoove/SmithC/SmithJoe
5 Horford/Ilgauskas/Pachulia
Adding Nate Robinson would make the Hawks’ running game all the more explosive. John Salmons gives the Hawks a chance to groom Jordan Crawford. Al Thornton could be a big-time scorer off the bench in place of Marvin. Craig Smith has the power inside the Hawks are a little lacking in. And Ilgauskasp—whom the Hawks wanted last year—gives the team a center with uncanny shooting ability and range.
Other possible free agents:
1. Ray Allen. Yes he’s 34, but he’s not showing it. In fact, his dribble/drive game is still improving. His connection to Rick Sund makes this a possibility, especially if JJ does not re-sign.
2. PG Luke Ridnour. The Hawks have always liked this kid and now he’s finally available.
3. F Travis Outlaw. Man, think of the games he torched the Hawks. He’s a slasher and step back splasher who can be a real spark off the bench.
4. C/PF David Lee. Imagine fellow Gators Horford and Lee paired together. Lee can score in the post, something the Hawks need and he and Horford are two of the best crashers in the league. Their chemistry would be something to watch.
5. C Marcus Camby. Still a very good shot blocker…imagine adding him and PG Nate Robinson??? Talk about high-flying fast breaks off of Camby blocks!!!
7. F Al Harrington. Hey, he still dominates us and is now happy coming in off the bench.
8. F Jarvis Hayes. Local talent who needs the right fit and that could be here in Hotlanta.
9. Flip Murray. If JJ leaves, why not bring Flip back as a 4th guard option? Flip was clutch for the Hawks two years ago.
Simpdawg
June 25th, 2010
11:10 am
Once again the Hawks fail to get it right on draft night, and now they’re going to have to over pay for free agents, when they had the opportunity to draft the right player the first time. Last night draft should prove to all you Hawks fans that this organization is not commented to winning and Joe Johnson will not resign with the Hawks unless it’s a sign and trade deal. The Hawks will win 32 games next year. F@ck the Hawks!!!!
KevinM
June 25th, 2010
11:10 am
If what I am hearing is right, we have a new coach and a new scheme. That remains to be seen, clearly. Saying that, I don’t see us going away alot from what got us to 53 wins. If we do, there will be an awful lot of mistakes happening, and giving LD his shot will prove whether he can lead or not.
Aside of that, you bet LD wants JJ back. If not, he has a hole to fill with limited options. We aren’t a FA player, we aren’t bringing in any big names to go with JJ. If we were able to bring in a big name for JJ to show our seriousness to change and improve, then, yes, I think JJ could have been a 50/50 option to come back. Right now, I think he leans heavily elsewhere, especially if Chicago strikes out on LeBron.
JJ and Rose have the same agent and JJ has said good things about being in Chicago in the future.
Is it me or is it wrong for JJ to take this long and wait to speak to LD after being named HC? That in itself says alot to me about how he feels about being here. I don’t think JJ is thick-skinned enough to handle the backlash he got here in the playoffs.
IMO, free up the $$ and go find a leader and some help who can get us to a championship contender. We are playing with fool’s gold right now saying we can pay more for JJ than anyone else.
That would be a foolish move.
TONE
June 25th, 2010
11:13 am
i like the nate robinson thought even if JJ comes back
Atlfan
June 25th, 2010
11:14 am
I think the draft was ok for us, but we really need vets that play the big position Center. Getting Joe back would be nice for us. He fills in alot of holes for the Hawks. We also really need to figure out the small forward position most of the time we a playing 4 on 5 with Marvin out there.
Scoots
June 25th, 2010
11:16 am
Simpdawg. They got the guy they wanted, plus an extra $3 mil. Why’s that a failure? How does gaining extra $$ show that they aren’t committed to signing Joe?
What did you expect to happen with the #23 spot in a draft with a shallow pool of talent?
Dwayne Wade
June 25th, 2010
11:20 am
I’d love to play for you guys. I’m a winner, and more clutch than ‘Tha King’. Show me the money and I’ll bring you a championship!
Feudfinder
June 25th, 2010
11:22 am
I like Joe, but I do not think the fans owe him an apology. If he wants to leave after slapping fans who pay his salary in the face, then so be it. The Hawks had somebody before him. But I hope Chicago or New York fans bow down for him for insulting them.
Dr. Warren
June 25th, 2010
11:23 am
Drew: “As an assistant, you’re just sitting there, listening to everybody. This was totally different. Now when they go around the room they’re asking for your opinion.”
From a management perspective, this quote is a bad sign. Why, as an assistant, did he “just sit there listening” for six years? Natural leaders tend to be proactive and give opinions. They’re often divergent thinkers and need to get it out there. And now, as head coach, why be so appreciative that “they’re asking for your opinion.” Should you be offering it without being asked? Shouldn’t you be a thought leader in your organization? Passivity is never a good sign in a manager.
Dr. Warren
June 25th, 2010
11:24 am
Meant to say: “Shouldn’t you be offering it without being asked.”
Glenn
June 25th, 2010
11:26 am
Joe isn’t coming back . Just because we can’t resign him doesn’t mean we can’t make other FA moves that can help us . I like Joe but he isn’t worth the max . He is a great second option though . Because of that he will get the max contract . If we are committed to bringing in other players we will be fine . I’m actually more concerned about Larry Drew as a head coach & our thinking in giving him the job than I am on whether JJ is back .
Dora Witherspoon
June 25th, 2010
11:42 am
I truely believe Joe should come back only because he has been a major help in Atlanta getting where they are at over the years. Come back maybe for a year or 2. He’s a good player not a great player! You’re if you can’t take being booed at Atlanta, – New York and Chicago is going to make you cry!!!
atl fan
June 25th, 2010
11:44 am
I think the hawks should let smoove and bibby go in some kind of trade even if they dont get anything in return because it would free up a lot of money. then try to sign dirk or salmons and mcghee of the wizard because he can opt out and ray allen they would have enough money to do that. your starters would be pg jeff teague sg ray allen sf dirk or salmons pf al horford c Mcgee back ups pg jamal crawford sg jordan crawford sf williams or evans pf sy c zaza thats pretty good
LEA
June 25th, 2010
11:54 am
Dear Joe Johnson you’re not a max player. so don’t even think about asking for max money. Sincerely, Hawks Fans
Ken Strickland
June 25th, 2010
11:55 am
It’s amusing to read comments from fans who want JJ sent packing just because of an emotional comment made after being booed. Yet, these same fans are showing just how silly, ridiculous and overly sensitive they are by suggesting we get rid of our best player since Nique, just because they feel insulted by his emotional utterance. TWO WRONGS(STUPIDITIES)DON’T MAKE A RIGHT.
We’ll definitely be a better team with JJ, but we certainly won’t collapse as a team if he leaves, as some of you whining CRY BABIES seem to think.
LEA
June 25th, 2010
11:55 am
atl fan that is just dumb lol, trading away them won’t free up much cap room. Plus when are the naive fans gonan realize Smoove is here to say
Simpdawg
June 25th, 2010
12:03 pm
Scoots,
We could have use the 31st pick to draft a big like Solomon Alabi, Dexter Pittman or Hassan Whiteside for our bench. You telling me that Solomon Alabi, Dexter Pittman or Hassan Whiteside would not have improved our bench over Joe Smith, Jason Collins or Randolph Morris. If we keep the same players we’re going to have the same results. I will say this; the Hawks will have an opportunity to get it right next year when they find themselves in the lottery. You have to understand most of the teams in the Eastern Conference improved their rosters with the exception of the Cavs and the Hawks.
Simpdawg
June 25th, 2010
12:06 pm
I agree with Glenn!!!
BigCaliDawg
June 25th, 2010
12:10 pm
“Drew: “As an assistant, you’re just sitting there, listening to everybody. This was totally different. Now when they go around the room they’re asking for your opinion.”
From a management perspective, this quote is a bad sign. Why, as an assistant, did he “just sit there listening” for six years? Natural leaders tend to be proactive and give opinions. They’re often divergent thinkers and need to get it out there. And now, as head coach, why be so appreciative that “they’re asking for your opinion.” Should you be offering it without being asked? Shouldn’t you be a thought leader in your organization? Passivity is never a good sign in a manager.”
Dr Warren,
Mike Woodson did not strike me as being a very good listener. I don’t think he gave a rats a*s about anyne else’s opinion. Had he done so, he would have utilized his assistant coach, rather than run iso’s every time down court and he would have given more run to Acie Law and Jeff Teague.
More than likely, Coach Woodson did not allow CLD’s opinions to take root.
Also, I believe CLD has been an assistant coach for more like 18 years, as he was an assistant for 2 teams, prior to coming to ATL.
Astro Joe
June 25th, 2010
12:11 pm
It’s obviously a good sign that Joe returned the call.
BigCaliDawg
June 25th, 2010
12:16 pm
Haslem, Jermaine O’Neal, Boozer, and Songaila are all FA’s. Also, Leon Powe and Nate Robinson………
willie
June 25th, 2010
12:16 pm
All stars are very hard to come by, particularly in this town with this ownership debacle. They must do everything that can do to sign Joe, because they will not be able to draw another big name here. I love the Crawford pick last night. He was the one player that I thought coule help up pretty quickly. Great job Hawks!
Supes
June 25th, 2010
12:18 pm
The Poll should have another option…*who cares*
Scoots
June 25th, 2010
12:19 pm
I’d have to disagree. From what all the experts are saying, none of the late 1st round/early 2nd round big men are NBA ready (either long-term projects with upsides, or flawed guys in general). I think Alabi and Whiteside fit into the long-term project category, but I guess you never know. I think Alabi needs to pack on some pounds, or he’s just going to get pushed around all day.
So I think it was good to get the extra $3 mill and sign or trade for a more seasoned center – someone like Big Z, Varaijao, or Brendan Haywood.
Simpdawg
June 25th, 2010
12:31 pm
Scoots,
What’s the extra $3 millions for? Joe Johnson, really!!! Do you really think Joe Johnson is going to resign with the Hawks? They’ll end up over paying for free agents like Josh Howard, John Salmons, Brendan (Brenda) Heywood, Matt Barnes or Mike Miller. Some of these guys are actually descent players but there’re also prone to injuries. Good luck lottery bound Hawks.
DIT
June 25th, 2010
12:36 pm
YAAAAAWWWWWWWNNNN… zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Blog about College Football. Anything!
tom
June 25th, 2010
12:52 pm
The problem with the new coach , he is too close to the players. Can’t make a solid decision. Let Johnson go if he wants to leave. Get some fresh blood. This team is lost with this coach.
Danny Terrio
June 25th, 2010
12:59 pm
I’d rather watch Schultz take a dump then Johnson play ball, at least the participant would be putting forth some effort…..
WGAF
June 25th, 2010
1:02 pm
Who cares, it’s basketball and this season is finally over!!!
Jake Wolf
June 25th, 2010
1:06 pm
Hey,since chris paul is up for a trade we could trade joe johnson for chris paul.What do you think?
Gwinnett Fred
June 25th, 2010
1:17 pm
I’m still stunned that the “braintrust” flatly states they wanted Crawford all along and took the chance he wouldn’t go at 25 or 26 by drafting James.
Seriously, a chunk of the teams future (and more importantly, immediate fan enthusiasm / disgust) was risked for about $3 million. Yes, that’s a lot of money – but that was a huge risk to take.
C from Marietta
June 25th, 2010
1:18 pm
To Danny Terrio ,
I forgot middle school. Oh wait, my middle schooler is more mature than your statements. Grow up.
Jake Wolf
June 25th, 2010
1:22 pm
Trade joe johnson for chris paul?!
Danny Terrio
June 25th, 2010
1:28 pm
C from Marietta, I’m saddened to hear you re-produced, forced sterilization would’ve been appropriate….
j.naismith
June 25th, 2010
1:35 pm
well now at least drew won’t have to also coach the hockey team
cheshire
June 25th, 2010
1:37 pm
I don’t have a problem with Joe coming back, but if that’s all we do in the offseason, that’s gonna be incredibly disappointing.
The problem with Joe is that he doesn’t want to act or play like a #1 guy, but he wants to be paid like one. And that’s why re-signing him is just going to guarantee that we stay in the exact same spot for years to come. Actually, it will guarantee we get worse if teams like Orlando and Miami are making big moves while we settle for the status quo and saving $.
This is the unfortunate reality of being a Hawks fan right now. Because of what a screwed up league the NBA is, there are really only about 3-4 teams that have a shot at playing for a championship each year. To be one of those teams, it requires money and an ownership’s commitment to winning, which we don’t have in Atlanta. People can say “oh, it’s great, we won 53 games last year”, but unless you’re one of those 3 or 4 teams with a shot (which we’re not), it doesn’t matter if you win 10 games or 53 games. In fact, it’s probably better to win 10 so you have a shot at improving through the lottery.
Dose of Reality
June 25th, 2010
1:40 pm
I am STILL committed to my other blog…..Let Joe Walk, have Jamal Crawford take his place, let Jordan Crawford take his place on the bench…. ‘IF’ we can find a true center, this will work folks… I am Banking on it!!!!
A folding Fan
June 25th, 2010
1:40 pm
Drew wants Johnson back.
Another story of a circumcision going horribly wrong.
#1 GT fan
June 25th, 2010
1:41 pm
some of you people or flat out mean. Joe siad that stuff because he knows he did bad, Joe did not want to but he did. I am sure he did not mean to say that stuff. He was frustrated about how he was doing.
Dont worry Joe, I still will not give up on you. I know you could do it.
The Hawks have to sign him, they have no choice if they want to be a good team next year. If they lose Joe, they dont have the salary cap(money) to spend it on another free agent. Even if we sign him, then trade him: WE HAVE TO GET JOE JOHNSON!
GO HAWKS!!!!
Stuart
June 25th, 2010
1:44 pm
Jeff,
Do you think the Hawks should get a legit center and move Horford to the 4 spot, Smith to the 3, and Marvin to the bench (for added depth)? It seems like it would make sense, in that Horford would be much more of a threat at his natural 4 position and that it would provide more big bodies to defend the likes of Dwight Howard. However, the one thing that would scare me is that if Smith is at the 3, he would have to play out more on the perimeter on D, where he wouldn’t be nearly as effective (and wouldn’t be able to block as many shots off help defense), and even more frightening, he would have to be further out on the perimeter on the offensive end to make room for the other bigs, thus more long-range shots and three pointers being jacked up….(yikes!). Although if you have a center like Big Z, then he could be more out on the perimeter instead, and effectively so; though, the downside with him is that he wouldn’t be able to keep up with the younger Hawks in their faster transition game, but would they need him to? Just wanted to hear your take on it.
Dr. Kenneth Noisewater
June 25th, 2010
1:49 pm
JJ is nothing more than a headache- let him go. his chemistry is bad for the team. just another diva, which we don’t need.
bulldogmaniac
June 25th, 2010
1:54 pm
How many of you have ever said something that you wish you could take back?
Give the guy a break! He was frustrated and upset. Did he under perform in the playoffs…yes but he is an allstar talent and the Hawks need him!
I for one hope that he returns.
Ryder
June 25th, 2010
2:02 pm
I look at the Joe Johnson situation like this: he has to decide if he wants to just be a good player or a true superstar. Great players (MJ, Kobe) always had their obstacles to overcome in order to get to the next level.
If Johnson doesn’t think that he is that player that can raise up the level of this team, then he should leave and be content with being a second banana. I believe that Drew has let it be known that things will change (which is always a good sign) to suit his talents.
I think that with the extra money they saved yesterday by wheeling and dealing in the draft they will try to get a second-tier center.
A true hawks fan
June 25th, 2010
2:19 pm
Simpdawg
I dont know what you are talking about. Why deviate far from what got you 53 wins? As for the draft you dont know what your talking about. Crawford is known for more than just dunking on Lebron. We were lucky to get that type of player that late in a shallow draft with a extra 3 mil to attract a legit center. We will not give JJ a max deal cause he is not deserving but we will sign him. What are you talking about? Go play Russian Roulette with yourself!
cheshire
June 25th, 2010
2:26 pm
also, this isn’t about what Joe said about the fans… this is about the fact that he disappears in the playoffs. you can run this iso stuff with Kobe or a true #1 superstar, but it doesn’t work with Joe, and when it doesn’t work we lose.
and things would be fine if Joe would recognize what he is and help/allow the team to get a #1 – he could be the best complimentary player in the league. but he’s still delusional and thinking he’s “that guy”. that’s why he isn’t good for this team – you have to pay him #1 money and feed his delusion but you don’t get a #1 player.
A True Fan
June 25th, 2010
2:37 pm
All the hawks fans need to hope that Joe Johnson come back to the team. Who in the world you all think going to come through the door not Lebron, Dewayne, or Bosh so Joe johnson did say some things he should have not said but he is a good player that we can keep hopefully so everyone here I known for sure have said something you wish you can take back no one is perfect we all are human. Joe johnson sounds like to me said the comments after a tough loss and alot of players and coaches have said things after a game or series or even series. We not going to get a good player to come here so if you guys want at least a playoff team hope joe johnson comes back trust me there are other teams that would not mine him on their team : a good scorer, an all star so we can not have it both ways . We as hawks fans need to hope that our team stays a good and do not become a bad team it sounds like some of the fans want that. And let us cheer for our team
and hope we can keep an allstar player on this team for once.
northcyde
June 25th, 2010
2:38 pm
Ryder . . . who is this 2nd tier center that you speak of. Brendan Haywood? He sure did help the Mavericks last year.
That pick we sold for 3 million last night, doesn’t mean that we have 3 million extra in cap space. We only saved about 600K by not obtaining a player with the 31st pick
We still only can offer at the max . . the MLE to a free agent ( around 6 million )
jlewis
June 25th, 2010
2:56 pm
Cheshire
I ISO stuff hasnt worked for Lebron, he has no championship, and it didnt work for Kobe, when Shaq left and he had no 2nd or 3rd option, they were horrible and got swept out of the playoffs. Didnt work for Jordan until he got Pippen etc., ISO’s are easy to stop in the playoffs, especially when you have no center or other shooters. Joe needs to leave or he will continue to be the scapegoat for ASG not making any moves to improve this team.
BigTimeTECHFan
June 25th, 2010
3:05 pm
Wonder if we give Scottie Reynolds a F/A try out. That would be sweet, real good point guard, outstanding person.
hittman jamillion
June 25th, 2010
3:15 pm
first off i’m undecided on who is more full of shiy?
the spirit or you sometimey ass hating unlogical bloggers, i would say fans but you guys are not fans.
to be a fan you have to know and love the game,and most of yall just flat out don’t.
everyone screams we need a center?
but actually get over it dominate bigmen are few and far between, the best you can do is get a good powerforward and push.
elite centers are a thing of the past
the days of hakeem,kareem, patrick , the admiral are over
you have dwigt howard and yao ming those are the only,let me say this again only true allstar caliber centers, the rest of these centers are less than extrordinary
you guys let your emotions cloud your decisions.
someone name me three yes three top flight pure centers in this league, hell zach randolph plays powerforward and was the only big man in the west to avg, 20 and 10
you guys act like it’s easy to win over 50 games in the nba hawks had the 5th let me reinterate it again the 5th best record last year with losy coaching and no offensive system.
these hawks have 4 allstar worthy players on this roster all we have to do is add a proven vet or two. these guys won 53 games off pure talent alone,
would i like a center ?yes but there weren’t any who could produce who could a been drafted.
this game is won on match ups,
it’s the reason cleveland is outstanding in the regular season and a quick exit in the playoffs,
we were killed for one reason. jameer nelson penetration to dwight howard.
which reults from a poor defensive shceme,bibby couldn’t stop nelson from penetrating t,he defense weakens ,someone doubles leaves there man, and walla onpen three to a shooter, but vs boston rondo stops nelson makes him ineffective and everybody stays on there man cause noone on that team can create their own shoot and walla orlando gets blown out in two of there 4 losses
me myself i say the hawks trade jj,(duck, and bibby in a package) cause his imagine is shot,you can’t disrespect a entire city, you not good enough to say what you said.
ad bring in another shooter, and a strong big or a dirk nowitzski. hell he’s a free agent
that’s my wish a front line of dirk,al,ans josh a be incredible,no need for bosh he can’t spread the floor, plus dirk is 7ft and can play the small forward on offense while josh guards the small forward on defense on the wing.
no luo deng, no danny granger hell danny is just marvin as a number one option, laugh if you wanna but duck doesn’t have plays ran for him. and chills is a killer i watched him aingle handedly take those garbage stanford teams to the elite 8 everyyear great slasher and easily gets to the rim and finish.maybe a kapono or mike miller, or rip hamilton who can hit shoots off the screen and run aroud you need players like that it makes the defense work. let these guys play and support the team
is it things i wish they would have done better? of course but it is what it is
peace
cheshire
June 25th, 2010
3:21 pm
jlewis, good point – iso doesn’t work unless that #1 has someone to dump it to… and even then, that means the iso isn’t working. bottom line, it’s not a good offensive strategy. there are 5 men on the court for a reason.
i admire the team’s approach to trying to build a Pistons type team that is solid all the way around and not packed with superstars… i WISH that was a successful strategy that worked in the NBA because i hate how star driven the league is now. but what we’ve learned is that you have to have a Kobe or a Lebron or a Dwight to play for championships in this league. it sucks but it’s true.
Barton
June 25th, 2010
3:25 pm
@ Ken Strickland – we want Joe sent packing because we would have to waste a bunch of money on him in his declining years that he doesn’t deserve as a player. Just because he has been the “best hawk since Nique” (as you put it and with which I disagree), does not mean he is a max contract player. Nor is it saying much about the Hawks considering the years we have had since Nique. The fact that show could not take responsibility for playing bad and saying that he didn’t care about the people who are paying his overpaid butt was just throwing gasoline on the fire. Thanks for playing and watch more Hawks basketball. I think you’ll see what I’m talking about.
MsDee
June 25th, 2010
3:32 pm
Are u STILL crying, truthspitter?????????????????????????? Wow, get over it already!! Guess what, there is nothing u can do or say to change what the Hawks did in draft night last night..O-K??
Barton
June 25th, 2010
3:36 pm
BTW – @ A folding Fan – funniest blog post I’ve read in a while
Barton
June 25th, 2010
3:45 pm
@ A True Fan – You’re only thinking about next year. I (and I believe several other thousands of Hawks fans) do not want Joe Johnson until he is 35-36 and do not want him burdening our payroll for that long. It is not only about winning 53 games next year, there are investment issues too. Is Joe worth Dwayne Wade money in his 30’s and as a second rate superstar?
Barton
June 25th, 2010
4:04 pm
@ Hittman Jamillion – thank you for adding some logic to the conversation. I’ll respond to some of what I pulled out of your rant. There is a diminishing pool of dominant centers because size and length is becoming more abundant across the board. More talent and size means less domination – with the exception of physical specimens such as Dwight Howard. The new dangerous 7 ft center can step out and knock down 3’s with a quick inside game. Dominant centers in the West.. ummm Pau Gasol 18.3 ppg and 11.3 rpg?? Tough to get 20 pts per game with the team the Lakers have but still pretty dominant. Watch out for Bynum when he is healthy. You’re right about the lack of depth, maybe just need to know the game a little better. Also, there are a lot of reasons the Hawks lost to Orlando – I’m not sure your Jameer Nelson analysis is the ONE reason the Hawks lost to Orlando. Let’s just say there were ways for the Hawks to lose with a little more dignity. Generally though, I think you made some good points, but points that people have been making so I’m not sure why the rest of the comments got hated on.
Tweets that mention Drew finally speaks to Joe Johnson, and he wants him back | Jeff Schultz -- Topsy.com
June 25th, 2010
4:06 pm
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Mark Roberts, Jeff Schultz. Jeff Schultz said: Joe Johnson finally returns Larry Drews' phone calls — and the coach wants him back. Read on: http://bit.ly/9Ayy9o [...]
Joe
June 25th, 2010
4:22 pm
The Hawks need a center they should go after lgauskas or David Lee.
BigCaliDawg
June 25th, 2010
4:23 pm
I’m ready to let Joe get up out. Whether he intended for his words to hurt the feelings of the fans, or not. That displays poor character. He’s been around long enough not to do that.
There are still about 10 guys in the league, who are all seemingly like 6th, 7th, or 8th men, who say and do what they wish. It’s cool to be assertive and all, but not at the detriment of your teammates.
Anger management can come in many forms. My personal preference is the David Banner “Mississippi” Screwed and Chopped album. Used to be Pac, but that was so 90’s.
At any rate, bye Joe.
Ken Strickland
June 25th, 2010
4:30 pm
Allow me to illustrate just how stupid some of our Atlanta Hawk fans are. They make a big issue of Sund not rehiring HC MWoodson, and give him total credit for the team increasing its win total each yr, making the playoffs 3 consecutive yrs and making it to the 2nd rd 2 consecutive yrs. Yet, some of these same stupid fans believe JJohnson, a 2 time All Star, our best and most versatile OFF/DEF player, and our leader in both scoring and assists, had little to do with these accomplishments and want to get rid of him.
In some cases this type of delusional thinking is the result of low basketball IQ’s, in other cases, it’s the result of low IQ’s, period.
Ryder
June 25th, 2010
4:31 pm
Northcyde that’s easy. They could go for someone like Brad Miller, who may be on the downside of his career but is a vet who can fill in the backup center spot.
They don’t want Brendan Haywood. I’ve seen him play in DC for years and he is as soft as they come.
BigCaliDawg
June 25th, 2010
4:38 pm
Maybe we can have an arrangement with JJ like Rasheed had in Boston. Only thing is, it would be in reverse.
Sheed got to take the season off, as long as he went all out in the playoffs.
JJ can go all out during the season, then go fishing for the playoffs.
Mr. Strickland, you must have been occupied administering a battery of assessments on Hawks fans, while we were watching Joe try not to get dirty in the playoffs.
Get your nose out of the books. Declarative knowledge can get you so far.
Like, the 1st round of the playoffs.
cheshire
June 25th, 2010
4:39 pm
I think the notion of ripping other fans as not being “true fans” because they disagree is kind of ridiculous.
Here’s the bottom line – if you want to be a “good” team who makes it to the playoffs and doesn’t do much else, then by all means we should re-sign Joe. If you don’t want to stay in the same place (2nd round playoff humiliations) year after year, then we can’t re-sign Joe Johnson.
I fall in the second camp, but i get why people want the first camp, because you don’t want to take a step back. That’s understandable.
My issue with that though is that the NBA isn’t like other sports where, if you make the playoffs, you’ve got a chance. In the NBA, 16 teams make the playoffs, but everyone knows it’s going to be 2 of about 5 or 6 teams playing for the trophy. The Hawks are just is irrelevant at 53 wins making the playoffs as they are at 20 wins and not making the playoffs.
We’ve been an irrelevant team for 42 years, and i’m just tired of being irrelevant. That’s an embarrassment to this city, and I think as a long suffering fan I deserve better than that. I want to play for a championship or i don’t want to play at all. Does losing Joe make us worse? It does, but at least then you have a chance to get back in the lottery and MAYBE get a superstar. If you re-sign Joe, you’re signing yourself into another 6 years of mediocrity.
BigCaliDawg
June 25th, 2010
4:54 pm
“The Hawks need a center they should go after lgauskas or David Lee.”
Agreed, but I’m thinkin that “Z” doesn’t want to be here. Didn’t he have to clear waivers with every team in the league before returning to CLE after Washington released him cuz he refused to play for them? (Frickinlongrunonsentancethere)
He probably said “Nah” once already. Also, I like David Lee, but he might be more than we need.
We need a 6′10″ – 7′ who just got out of jail. We don’t need a big to score as much as we need an enforcer. ZA ZA has had to stick up for every player on this team for the last 3 years. Who did we get to have his back? Joe Smith. Dang. We need a big that can rebound and just play pissed.
b-dubs
June 25th, 2010
5:28 pm
I couldn’t care less if JJ signs for the Hawks. Jamal can take his place.
I just hope the owners get their act together and realize the people of Atlanta want a good team, not one that keeps money in the owner’s pocket. Go and get a good player to take JJ’s place.
Man, the hawks are gonna have a tough season next season. A “new” coach with a “fresh” face to “mix things up” and JJ who, lets admit, doesn’t want to play for the Hawks.
Arman
June 25th, 2010
6:12 pm
great comment by mitch! i totally agree
JeJe
June 25th, 2010
6:22 pm
Read Sund’s comments from yesterday. He thinks we could’ve played better and competed vs. Orlando. LOL
This guy is such an idiot. He didn’t even mention that Cleveland OWNED us last year or that ORL and CLE on the whole OWN us in the regular season.
We sold picks to save $90,000 (7 owners — LOL!!!!) so we can resign and dish out the world to someone who isn’t even a superstar.
welikebaseball2
June 25th, 2010
6:29 pm
Actually he did play “Joe Johnson basketball”…performing well enough during the season to make the all-star team & then disappearing in the playoffs. Correct me if I’m wrong but, last I checked, that was indeed “Joe Johnson basketball.”
Pi$$onaDawg
June 25th, 2010
7:18 pm
Jeff why do we not get CWS games? Drafts and (before the AllStar break) MLB ganes are great, but the LAST YEAR at Rosenblatt and a National Championship matter more that the other crap you are writing about. People would complain if you didn’t cover the NBA and the NHL, but again mor Paper readers care about College Baseball than we do about the NBA.
ryan
June 25th, 2010
7:40 pm
I hope we get John Solomans he would be good roll player having super stars does not always mean you win championships look at the Lakers yes the have Kobe but they one with roll players like Derek Fisher and Boston with Perkins and Big Baby.
Big Ray
June 25th, 2010
9:00 pm
Of course Drew wants Joe back. Why would you want your most potent/dangerous scorer to leave?
More than anything I fear Joe walking, with us getting nothing in return. THAT would be the darkest nightmare.
JSS
June 25th, 2010
9:20 pm
@ Big Ray and Jeff Schultz…
I posted some clips of Sy on You tube. The link is on Michael Cunningham’s blog…
mike
June 25th, 2010
11:42 pm
Players that I would like to see here: David Lee, Rip Hamilton, John Salmons Players that should go: Marvin Williams.
We might lose JJ but if Sund can pull off a good sign & trade that all is not lost. JJ is not worth max-money. If he wants to win than he will accept our offer. If not let him walk, and let Sund work some trades.
BigCaliDawg
June 26th, 2010
1:03 am
Ever wonder what Marvin Williams “role” is on this team?
He does seem like a good teammate and he was one of the 3 last year that resigned for less than they could have gotten elsewhere. He’s kinda like Billy Owens, but with fewer dimes.
kelvin davis
June 26th, 2010
1:32 am
Fans of Atlanta we all need to get something clear… We don’t need Joe Johnson… If he wants to leave then let him leave… Now lets say we don’t resign Joe, then we are left with Jordan Crawford at the SG position… I actually wouldn’t mind if we made a run at Rudy Gay in free agency… How would all of you feel if we added Rudy Gay and Tyson Chandler this offseason?… We would be great I think… Look at it like this… We would have Al Horford at C and his backup would be Zaza Pachulia and Tyson Chandler, Josh Smith at PF and his backup would be Joe Smith and Horford at times to play with Chandler, at SF I think Marvin Williams will have an impact with Larry Drew opening things up for him and his backup is Moe Evans, at SG if we got Rudy Gay that would be great for us; He is slowly becoming one of the best guards in the league and his backup is Jordan Crawford and Jamal Crawford, and at PG I think Mike Bibby would still be the starter with Jeff Teague and Jamal Crawford playing a lot of course… If we had this roster going into the season would you all say we got better or we got worse?.. At crunch time we can have Jamal Crawford at PG with Rudy Gay at SG, Josh Smith or Marvin Williams at SF, Al Horford at PF, and Tyson Chandler at C… This group of players makes life a lot easier than it did with Joe Johnson… Can you all please give me feedback on what you think about that?? I think it makes sense and we have the money to make this all happen…
JD
June 26th, 2010
5:17 am
There are deals out there to be made, the question is whether or not this ownership group will take the chance to do them or will they keep to their cheap operating philosophy.
There’s a center to be had; the Minnesota Timberwolves are trying to trade Al Jefferson (of course, when confronted with that on NBATV the other night, the TWolves gm denied it – he’s not gonna tip his hand that easily). The question is can the Hawks put together a package that will allow them to swoop in and steal yet another quality player from them. What that package is I don’t know. I’m not in the habit of playing armchair gm, but I do believe that if the right package of players and/or picks (whether future or otherwise) is put together the Hawks would have their center, Horford can move down to his natural pf position, and then you maneuver the lineup to whichever configuration gives them the best chance to win.
I’m also of a mind that the Hawks should make a run at Rudy Gay. That might seem to be a far-fetched idea because he’s a restricted free agent and any team that attempts to sign him the Grizzlies can match that offer. I don’t know of a scenario that could work to get him here, but I hope that management is looking into all options to improve this team.
As for Joe Johnson – listen, the guy made a mistake in saying what he said during the playoffs, misconstrued or not. They didn’t perform well and the fans booed, as is their right as a fan. If Joe Johnson leaves this team will never lure another big name free agent to this town again. Word of mouth is the best (and sometimes worst) way information gets spread. You can believe that if Joe Johnson leaves it’s gonna become widespread that it’s not worth it to play for this organization and that’s not the info you want floating around about your team. The goal is to become a championship contender and the Hawks would be at a competitive disadvantage if negative information gets to the rest of the league thereby hindering chances of the Hawks getting that big name free agent they covet.
I know that the words championship and contender don’t necessarily go hand in hand with this ownership group (who I believe is operating this team on the cheap and are only worried about their bottom line and about being respected as owners) but it is what it is. LD can be a good coach if given a chance. Let him coach some games before passing judgment. If he says he’s gonna create more movement within the offense then afford him that opportunity to do so. We don’t know whether the Hawks progress or step back, but as fans we’re all in wait and see mode. Let’s just do that.
Navigator
June 26th, 2010
9:16 am
Joe Johnson is a good player, no doubt, but he’s like a lot of other good players in the league. The Hawks really need to find out who else might be available on the free agent market. It’s one thing to have King James, but it’s another to have a player who thinks he is, but isn’t.
Nique
June 26th, 2010
9:59 am
@ kelvin davis
Its a good thought. I also feel that if Joe wants to leave, then let him go but only if we get something back. As far as Rudy Gay and Tyson Chandler…Rudy’s not a 2, other than that I love his game. But in getting him I feel like you are saying that Marvin’s career as a hawk is done. And we’d have to trade Marvin since I believe he’s making too much now to be a bench guy….
I do have an issue with people assuming that all we have to do is get a center, stick him in the starting lineup, and bump Horford and Smith down. Both of them are best at the power forward position and everyone knows this, so we either need to just deal with it or trade one. I prefer to keep them both since I don’t think either one has reached his full potential yet. But unless Josh makes dramatic improvements with his shooting and dribbling (which he hasn’t done yet), he will never be right at the 3. So if we keep both our best bet is to get a “rotational center” (Chandler, Haywood, etc) who gives us the option to have a big lineup when needed. So I agree with you on going for someone like Tyson, I just don’t think its best to start him. He came off the bench last year, as did Haywood, and I don’t think either would have an issue with filling the role of first big off the bench (20-30 mpg). I’m really hoping LD uses his entire 2nd team (not just one guy…JC) this year so our best players are still fresh in the fourth. Way too many blown leads last year.
Beam me up Scotty
June 26th, 2010
10:47 am
Now that the draft has passed, the Hawks need to be on the phone to the undrafted scotty reynolds of villanova. Give him a spot on the roster and you have just added another scorer and a kid that plays hard and defends. Give him a call Rick!
nobody
June 26th, 2010
11:18 am
Some of yall are dumb. This draft sucked. It really did. The undrafted players IMO are better than some of the late first and second rounders. The hawks did as well as they could. They got a scorer with lottery pick scoring capability. They made 3 million dollars and lost nothing. It was a great draft for them. But then again I also think everyone who says we need a Center because Horford isnt a center is an idiot. Horford is a top defensive center in this league. He only struggles with one player. Howard( The best bigman Ive seen in a while).
nobody
June 26th, 2010
11:18 am
And I meant the talent in this draft sucked
Steve
June 26th, 2010
12:45 pm
If we can get something of value for Joe Johnson……….then we need to do it. Otherwise,let bygones be bygones and lets move on with a new attitude under a new coach,that we have in Drew.
Pi$$onaDawg
June 26th, 2010
1:24 pm
Cover the CWS baseball games!!! Do something. The Hawks and Thrashers don’t draw too much interest in the positive.
ICECOLD
June 26th, 2010
1:30 pm
honestly……. the ice cold truth……. we dont need joe johnson in the long run…. we have jordan crawford.. who could turn to a player better then joe johnson that the hawks have for their on.. he is the truth ,,, if you look at his high lights.. he is quick fast and can shoot from any where… the league needs another young super star after all these changes and he can really be that… if we keep joe johnson.. they play the same position and they will stunt his growth.. if kobe played behind a super star… he wouldnt be who he is today.. give the keys to jordan crawford, the other players can support him perfectly.. dont stunt the rookies growth, get a true big man or a amare stademire or carlos boozer or even chris bosh if he stop actin stupid.. but any way..
have
jeff teague,
jordan crawford
josh smith
al horford
and a true center…
start a young great team like the thunder
nobody
June 26th, 2010
2:07 pm
How does anyone think Josh Smith can play the 3? I want one of yall who have said to move Josh to the 3 to give me 3 reasons why you think he would fit there?
Patrick
June 26th, 2010
3:21 pm
There is no way Joe is coming back, with the financial issues the ASG has. They still have about 10 million to play around with without going over the cap (assuming Joe walks), so not all hope is lost. Also, teams are still desperate to shed salary, so the Hawks might be able to pick up a very good young player in a salary dump. Andris Biedrins, Luol Deng, Michael Beasley, etc, are all on the block, and they could be had for nothing (as in, a future second round pick or something).
While the selling of a draft pick is frustrating, it is possible that Drew feels the young players at the end up the bench were underused during the Woodson era, so he actually feels he has a team that’s 10 or 11 players deep already. Of course, I would have rather them just kept the pick, but it’s hard to pass up $3 million dollars when the team is in such financial strain.
ICECOLD
June 26th, 2010
4:00 pm
people already think the hawks are going to be a bad team if joe johnson leave, so lets offer next years first round draft pick for michael beasley… start him at the three, its a way better upgrade then starting marvin williams, marvin can come off the bench, you know, the thing that got him to the league… he will have a lot less pressure on him to score and he can play with no pressure will make him bettter..
josh smith can play the three for three huge reasons
1. not all three guards are straight perimeter players , most three players are slashers.. josh smith would be the perfect slasher, he can catch alley oops all day, and he can shoot that lil mid range jumper if he open.. more scoring for him- better postitioning
2. if the hawks get a really good center that can start right away, they will have the best three man front court in the league..nobody would be able to stop the hawks in the paint.
1. defenseive purposes… helpside deffense………. when he guards three’s on other teams, he can be in a situation where he can play help defense better with other people 3 forwards , if you dont understand, ill explain if you defend a slasher.. better positioning for help defense.. really simple.. he can do it..
We're LIVE from Braves-Tigers (and is this it for Kawakami?) | Jeff Schultz
June 26th, 2010
4:05 pm
[...] ♦ Drew finally speaks to Joe Johnson, and he wants him back [...]
Saabotager
June 26th, 2010
4:06 pm
Too much wasted time on Joe Johnson. It is obvious he doesn’t want to play in Atlanta, and also obvious he’s not a winner. He will end his career with a thick bank account and no ring. The Hawks should concentrate on making Jordan Crawford the next best thing in Atlanta. The kid has all the potential. Based on Rick Sund draft selection, the Spirit should fire his a$$. He’s a joke of a GM. I guess he will fir Larry Drew if they don’t have a second round repeat.
Chipper feeling young again, and Kawakami, Braves benefit | Jeff Schultz
June 26th, 2010
10:06 pm
[...] ♦ Drew finally speaks to Joe Johnson, and he wants him back [...]
BrittishAnger
June 26th, 2010
10:33 pm
I’m interested to see what “Veterans” they’re going to surround us with once the initial FA fodder is dealt with (i.e The albatross of monetary ramifications otherwise known as Joe Johnson)….I wouldn’t be so clever as to ponder a Shaq in Atlanta, but short of a three team trade scenario to grab a legit big-man from the super-cap teams (or stealing David Lee and some serious draft picks from NY) when Joe seeks his Bird rights, what vet on the FA board is willing or financially predisposed towards coming for a stroll through Atlanta for a year separate from the ones we have at our disposal? Who and how would we make offers to fill holes which need filling right off the bat assuming Joe comes back? Where and when will the ownership take a chance and grab another big man and not think we’ve got enough? And for something a little more answerable, when does the list for Rookie Camp drop?
nobody
June 28th, 2010
10:05 am
ICECOLD. Just for the heck of it, name me one starting SF that cannot hit a jumpshot?
Joe Don't Go Squad
June 28th, 2010
12:36 pm
http://joe_dont_go.WebStarts.com/index.html
Barton
June 28th, 2010
4:21 pm
@ icecold – you spelled defense three different wrong ways.. thus whatever you used as your argument is irrelevant
@ nobody – answer: Josh Smith when they play him at the 3
mike j l
June 30th, 2010
7:18 pm
i sure hope rick sund use his brain and money wisely. joe aint worth no max money(not even close). his is inconsistent and he cant carried the team like max players. if u pay him max, then u are saying he is as good as lebron, dwayne, and kobe! now, we know that aint so. finally, he doesnt care about the fans. remember the playoffs comment! if u give him the max, and ticket prices go up, this will be my last year as a season ticket holder………!
MD5000
July 4th, 2010
8:03 pm
Signing Joe Johnson will spell doom for the Hawks for the next 5 years.The Hawks need to make trades-Marvin Williams,get rid of Joe Johnson and sign 2 veteren players,trade Josh Smith for anyone who would take his contract, and plan to build around Al Horford and Teague.If the organization doesnt want to do this you will lose 70 percent of your fanbase, that i promise u.
Rich McKay
July 6th, 2010
4:30 pm
Joe Johnson is terrible
jeremiah
July 9th, 2010
11:20 pm
you need to get paul pierce for free agency