Hawks should trade any two players for Dwight Howard
If Orlando wants Josh Smith and another player to get Dwight Howard, fine (Curtis Compton)
NBA teams are starting to open their facility doors to players, having conversations with agents and formulating plans for their respective rosters.
What a great time for the Hawks to push for the one move they could make that would grab everybody’s attention, fill Philips Arena and possibly move them closer to title contention: Trade for Dwight Howard.
I realize this is a long shot. But Howard almost certainly is going to be traded some time over the next several months. He can opt out of his contract after this season and there’s no indication that he wants to stay in Orlando.
Howard never has stated that he wants to come back home to Atlanta to play center for the Hawks. But let’s put the team’s potential sales pitch to him on hold for just a minute.
Here’s the plan, after my high-level talks with Michael “Ice Man” Cunningham: Tell the Magic they can have any two players they want.
At some point, Orlando will come to the realization that it can’t convince Howard to stay so management will go looking for the best deal. I can’t believe any other team in the league could offer as valuable a trade package as the Hawks can. Tell the Magic that they can take Joe Johnson and Al Horford. Or Joe Johnson and Josh Smith. Or Al Horford and Josh Smith.
Regardless of which two players Orlando chooses, the Hawks would have the most dominant center in the game and the major marketing piece the franchise needs in this city. Their starting two pieces toward building an NBA title contender: Howard and Johnson (I can see the commercials now), Howard and Horford or Howard and Smith (reuniting the pre-school teammates).
Now, about Howard. There are ramifications of the new collective bargaining agreement that I freely (and proudly) admit ignorance about. I’m aware that impending free agents don’t quite have the leverage they used to (see: Carmelo Anthony). Therefore, Howard might prefer just opting out of his contract, hitting the open market and getting a longer, more lucrative deal as a free agent than he could in some sort of extend-and-trade situation.
But the Hawks have ammunition if they want to pitch Howard:
• 1.) Atlanta is home. His parents, family and friends can watch him play.
• 2.) The cap space cleared by two high-profile players leaving would give the Hawks the ability to pursue other players in trade and free agency. Howard’s presence also immediately makes Atlanta a more attractive option for other NBA players, many of whom already live here in the offseason.
• 3.) Howard wants to build his brand. That’s understandable. But he doesn’t need to go to Los Angeles or New York to do that. The Hawks need only show him last week’s New York Times story that was titled, “Stars Flock to Atlanta, Reshaping a Center of Black Culture.”
Excerpts from the story:
” … Fueled by a generous entertainment tax credit, the migration of affluent African-Americans from the North and the surprising fact that even celebrities appreciate the lower cost of living here, this capital of the Deep South is emerging as an epicenter of the black glitterati. …
To be sure, Atlanta has long had a high concentration of well-connected, affluent blacks. But the Atlanta area is now home to such a critical mass of successful actors, rappers and entertainment executives that few would argue its position as the center of black culture. Tyler Perry and his movie and television empire are based here. Sean Combs has a house in a suburb north of the city. The musicians Cee Lo Green, Ludacris and members of OutKast call it home. So does the music producer and rapper Jermaine Dupri.
Gladys Knight, an Atlanta native who was honored at the awards, which were taped Nov. 17, runs a chicken and waffle restaurant here. And it is not unusual to spot Usher at one of the city’s better restaurants.”
The Hawks’ biggest problem handicapping them in this situation: ownership. Regardless of what you think about the Atlanta Spirit, they are trying to sell the team and arena rights. (A potential sale to Alex Meruelo fell through four weeks ago.) Major trades, contracts, hirings and firings generally don’t happen when an ownership situation is in flux.
But this is a trade the Hawks need to pursue. As much as last year’s playoff showing was impressive — eliminating Orlando and taking Chicago to six games — few have a sense that this team could maneuver through the Eastern Conference, past Chicago, Miami and Boston, to get to the NBA finals.
Acquiring Howard is one huge step toward making that possible. He is worth any two players Orlando may want.
By Jeff Schultz
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204 comments Add your comment
The Barves
November 30th, 2011
12:25 pm
I mean yeah… yes please!
But i’m not sure how fond Dwight is of Atl after how the fans went after him in the playoffs. He did not seem pleased.
That probably doesn’t matter. But having Josh here would. and imagine that is who the Magic would want, along with Horford.
that wouldn’t make us anymore of a contender then w/o Howard
The Barves
November 30th, 2011
12:26 pm
and i hate the Firsters, and I am so glad they do not win today.
Ted M
November 30th, 2011
12:32 pm
That is a no brainer.
bob dylan
November 30th, 2011
12:33 pm
The only return value for Josh Smith would be a rack of used basketballs and a youth sized Dwight Howard jersey. Get him out of town….NOW!
tmc
November 30th, 2011
12:34 pm
2 players? i’d do 4 or 5 (not kidding).
Word
November 30th, 2011
12:35 pm
Word
mike
November 30th, 2011
12:39 pm
So if we give up Al and Josh, that leaves us with Kirk, Joe, Dwight, Marvin, Z, Teague as our core players. Jamal is probably gone through free agency.
Jeff- do you see that group I mentioned above going deep in the East playoffs?
If we give up Joe and Al or Josh for Dwight, who is going to create points? Again, Jamal is probably gone. For all of Joe’s shortcomings, he can create shots.
Ted M
November 30th, 2011
12:39 pm
if Orlando did it they wouldn’t take JJ so it would be Al Horford & Josh Smith.
No Brainer
November 30th, 2011
12:42 pm
BRING HIM HOME!
TampaDawg
November 30th, 2011
12:43 pm
No chance the Hawks get Howard. He is the face of the magic.
Nom Nom Nom Chucks....Taylor or Norris, I don't care
November 30th, 2011
12:44 pm
Jeff…yes and yes again.
Maybe they could just sell the team to Dwight Howard.
Thoughts?
Sisyphus
November 30th, 2011
12:46 pm
Have always heard he’s said that he would never come back to play in Atlanta. Who would, with this ownership?
Nom Nom Nom Chucks....Taylor or Norris, I don't care
November 30th, 2011
12:47 pm
Send Orlando Sean Combs too……
The Real Fan
November 30th, 2011
12:48 pm
Should they? Yes.
Will they?
Of course not. Who do you think owns the Hawks?
The Real Fan
November 30th, 2011
12:50 pm
The only thug in this town and on this blog is gnomeboy.
tmc
November 30th, 2011
12:50 pm
Let me amend my trade bait…
i’d trade 4 or 5 players and throw in the owners…
and give Howard ownership too!
oh wait, i don’t care if the NBA plays or not… but i might if DH comes here!
JacketFanMarcus
November 30th, 2011
12:51 pm
Jeff – you have lost your mind! This is a waste of internet space. Glad you’re not a GM in real life!
Hankie Aron
November 30th, 2011
12:51 pm
Jeff- This would be a great move but he said that he HATES Atl in a past interview. The only thing that would bring him here is if Atl Spirit throws in the keys to Fort Knox.
TK
November 30th, 2011
12:52 pm
“Thugs, thugs, and more thugs”
Have you even watched the NBA in the last 5-10 years? No doubt for a time after MJ retired the league had it’s share of “thugs” as you call them. However, the league has taken great strides to clean up its act and there is no question the thug aspect of the league is mostly gone. You look at the stars of the league now – Kobe, Durant, Wade, Lebron, Paul, Melo, Dirk, Dwight Howard to name a few – these guys aren’t thugs by any means. Are there still some around the NBA? I guess so. But no more so than in any other sport.
Hawks fan
November 30th, 2011
12:53 pm
Nice article, Jeff. May I suggest a headline to work toward for your next piece: ” Hawks owenership should trade themselves for anyone willing.”
BillS
November 30th, 2011
12:56 pm
Yes, yes yes. But I doubt it would happen. Still, bringing Howard to ATL would bring a little life to a dormant franchise that is on schedule to finish in the middle of the pack (again), lose in the playoffs without having any serious shot at a title (again), and suffering maximum fan disinterest (again).
Brian
November 30th, 2011
12:57 pm
Sorry folks….this will not happen.
Dozer
November 30th, 2011
12:57 pm
My choices are Josh & Joe – addition by subtraction. there should be incentive for the Spirit (think of the irony in that name)to do this – the team would be much more saleable with a franchise center like Howard in the fold…….
Dr. Warren
November 30th, 2011
1:01 pm
Trading the Hawks’ core for Howard could set the Hawks back into the pre-2008 Stone Age if he left in free agency.
rollo lawson
November 30th, 2011
1:04 pm
I would love to see a core of Joe, Dwight, Josh, and Jeff Teague. Everyone else should be expendable.
Negi Uno
November 30th, 2011
1:05 pm
Nice Article, Jeff
But I willing to do that for Chris Paul if Hornets wants, since Hawks, Clips, Knicks and Nets will be the only teams that he will signed ext if he traded to that time.
But at the end of the day, the ASG needs to look at the mirror and ask this question, do you want to stick with the core or not.
Howard for 2 players and draft choices will be good for Magic, heck it should beats Nets offer.
UGA alum
November 30th, 2011
1:06 pm
The Atlanta Spirit Group will get none of my time, none of my attention and none of my cash. The most inept ownership group in the history of professional sports.
ron
November 30th, 2011
1:06 pm
Josh Smith & Joe Johnson a must that needs to go!!! there’s no needing to trading if he’s not going to sign a long term contract.Joe Johnson type of money can go a long way in signing Dwight Howard.
rollo lawson
November 30th, 2011
1:06 pm
Is “thug” a code word for something else? Seems like it!
Mid Town Joe
November 30th, 2011
1:07 pm
Nobody would want Joe Johnson. Not the contract, nor his inability to perform in the playoffs.
marcus kelly
November 30th, 2011
1:13 pm
U could offer any number of players to Orlando but bottom line is dwight is not coming here.
Lenox Financial Guy
November 30th, 2011
1:16 pm
Biggest no-brainer in the history of earth. Get him.
Please Please Please
November 30th, 2011
1:17 pm
Make this happen.
mick crysler
November 30th, 2011
1:17 pm
I’m in. Horford would hurt, but I’d like to see it. Alas, I doubt it’ll happen.
afan
November 30th, 2011
1:17 pm
Get it done..hell Yes!
Delbert D.
November 30th, 2011
1:18 pm
Jeff, what in the world are you doing, writing about this? Football, man.
PMC
November 30th, 2011
1:22 pm
They can have the entire ROSTER for Dwight Howard.
Brian
November 30th, 2011
1:23 pm
So the Orlando Magic w/ D Howard as their ‘franchise’ guy led to them being a team the Hawks could beat in the first round. If we trade away 2 integral pieces of that Hawks team for said ‘franchise’ guy, we “[can] maneuver through the Eastern Conference, past Chicago, Miami and Boston, to get to the NBA finals”? I no sure I follow, but I don’t think D. Howard as franchise equals titles. Ask Orlando.
Remember how Howard playing well meant a playoff loss? http://www.nba.com/home/playerfile/dwight_howard/
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:24 pm
Mike — In your scenario, Hawks obviously would either bring in other players to support Howard and/or re-sign Jamal. But yes, there’s the possibility of taking a hit for a year before moving forward.
PMC
November 30th, 2011
1:24 pm
Shouldn’t a superstar town, have a superstar athlete?
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:25 pm
Gnomeboy — I don’t think the word “thug” necessarily always carries a racial connotation. But in the case of your comment, I think it did. So I deleted it.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:26 pm
TampaDawg — Howard is the face of the Magic, but that doesn’t mean he wants to stay there and, ultimately, it will be his choice to leave.
tony
November 30th, 2011
1:26 pm
I would be happy if they could trade JJ and JS for D.Howard. It will only happen in our dreams. Nice thought though.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:26 pm
Nom Nom Nom — Hah. I think for now, Howard would prefer just getting paid. The headaches of ownership can come after retirement.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:27 pm
JacketFanMarcus — “Have you lost your mind?” …. Yes. Years ago.
Harpie
November 30th, 2011
1:27 pm
Why would Dwight Howard want to come play for a team with an idiot for a coach?
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:28 pm
Hankie Aron — Howard rolled his eyes about losing to “the Hawks” last year when Cunningham and I were there during the playoffs. Then we pressed him on it and he begged off from elaborating much. MC asked him again recently at a charity function and he wouldn’t talk.
Gerhart76
November 30th, 2011
1:29 pm
One and done for Howard and then what? It certainly would put us back in the lottery game.
Seems I recall the Nique for D. Manning trade that sent them on that near 10 year spiral down.
This is crazy.
Howard is going to follow the path of Lebron and Wade and go somewhere he can win a title (or at least have a shot).
essss eeeeeeee seeeee
November 30th, 2011
1:29 pm
Ah the life of a sportswriter. What a job. Almost as good as Pat Sajak’s. I had this exact same conversation with my friends a year ago.
Good Grief
November 30th, 2011
1:29 pm
C’mon, Jeff, as long as the ASG is in charge this will never happen. It’s more likely that they sell the Hawks and move them to St. Louis before they make a trade that will possibly better the team.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:30 pm
Mick Crysler — I’d hate to see Horford leave to but you have to give something to get something.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:30 pm
Delbert D. — Geez, come on, man. I can’t write ONE blog that’s not football related? Trying to stretch a little here.
theight
November 30th, 2011
1:31 pm
Orlando can acutally have three of them. Take Joe, Marvin and AL. Try to keep Josh with Howard and that would be a hell of a superstar team. This is where the money will come flowing in. With those two players, Chris Paul would definitely make a push for the owners to come after him. Well anyway, doesn’t reality always sound so good. Too bad this wonderful dream won’t come true.
Najeh Davenpoop
November 30th, 2011
1:31 pm
Agree on all counts. I have been saying this for like a year now. I would prefer to hold on to Teague, but besides that any combination of players (more than two if necessary) should be made available. And the Hawks would really improve their chances of successfully completing a trade if they were willing to take on the contract of Turkoglu as well.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:32 pm
Harpie — So I take it you weren’t impressed by Larry Drew in the playoffs?
SteveW
November 30th, 2011
1:35 pm
Been saying that since last season…JJ and Al for Dwight. Josh then re-signs with the Hawks. Unstoppable defensive frontcourt – and with Teague coming on at the Point, we have a team.
John Galt
November 30th, 2011
1:35 pm
Atlanta IS black LA. Howard can own it. Go get him.
GTT
November 30th, 2011
1:37 pm
Can’t argue with any of it. Do it. Also, let those glitterati buy the team.
theight
November 30th, 2011
1:38 pm
the ownership would also have to agree to pay either 1/4 or 1/2 or Joe Johnson’s contract in order for any other team to want to trade for him.
SteveW
November 30th, 2011
1:39 pm
Now if it was Josh and Al – I would make sure to have an agreement in place that Dwight would sign here. You could always re-sign Josh as a Free Agent in a couple of years. Could you imagine a backcourt of JJ and Teague, and ZaZa and Collins backing up Dwight in the Frontcourt? We’d need to sign a FA PF pretty quick however – Chucky Hayes, Reggie Evans, somebody
And I don’t believe all this talk about ASG not trading Josh. I think he get’s traded somewhere before he tests Free Agency in a couple of years, unless we get Dwight. I don’t think ASG likes Josh.
SteveW
November 30th, 2011
1:42 pm
Watching Dwight interviews in the past – I actually think he wants to come to ATL. He has said he doesn’t need to be a large market to become a national brand. He’s said ATL is home. I think he wants here. With LA or NY being next on his list.
Good Grief
November 30th, 2011
1:43 pm
“I don’t think ASG likes Josh.” – SteveW at 1:39
_____
I don’t think the ASG likes Atlanta, otherwise they wouldn’t have treated us like garbage for the last five years.
Negi Uno
November 30th, 2011
1:44 pm
@Najeh Davenpoop
In fact, I think it can also help out in finding an new owners for this team, bring back fans to Phillps and so much more. But then again, they are ASG, they would say that they are happy with the team with cheaper vets and etc, etc, etc.
Worldwide Clyde
November 30th, 2011
1:45 pm
How is ATL black when they won’t even let us have our own weekend. Bring Freaknik back.
Born2Buzz
November 30th, 2011
1:46 pm
This makes way to much sense for the Spirit to act on it. Sadly, we will continue to be a middle of the pack team.
Negi Uno
November 30th, 2011
1:48 pm
@crackbaby
Okay, so would you go after Chris Paul but not Howard?
iceHAWKcold11
November 30th, 2011
1:54 pm
Too much like right. The Hawks rarely do things right. This is good conversation but the reality is no one even wants to own the Hawks sad history of a franchise.
Jamal come back man you will be SORELY missed.
reality check
November 30th, 2011
1:56 pm
The local teams didn’t recruit him very well coming out of high school so I don’t expect the local franchise to recruit him now.
Go DAWGS beat those bengal tigers
Whopper Dawg
November 30th, 2011
1:59 pm
Take Joe Johnson………………please.
Dawglasville
November 30th, 2011
2:01 pm
I started blog screaming for this in the middle of last year’s season.
Trojan
November 30th, 2011
2:01 pm
Maybe the Hawks owners will at least try.
Nicker
November 30th, 2011
2:04 pm
Thank you Schultz.
My sentiments exactly.
I’ve been thinking this since the Hawks made began playing well a couple yrs ago.
I think Dwight would play EVEN BETTER by being at home. He could motivate the team, and most importantly the FANS.
You want to get my family in the seats?
Put Dwight on the floor for the Hawks.
He would be this generations ‘NIQUE.
Go big D! Come home to Hawks.
Ray
November 30th, 2011
2:06 pm
@ Woldwide Cycle
I agree with that statement the last one ya’ll had was garbage I had to hear that for about a week coming down here to Central GA and also on the news.
As for the go get Dwight if only he could come here on his own accord saying get out of his current contract at the end of the season it would be awesome to have Joe, Dwight, Josh and Al could you imagine that we don’t need CP3 we have Teague who I’m certain with more practice will turn out to be as good as a Rondo or Westbrook maybe even CP3 himself.
WitStream
November 30th, 2011
2:08 pm
I agree entirely, but no one could be stupid enough to take on JJ and JS and their contracts. It’s just incredible we have both of these losers in the same town.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
2:08 pm
Cr***baby — Please change your screen name. I don’t like it.
NBA AM: Plenty of Trade Rumors Surfacing – HoopsWorld | Basketball News Pro
November 30th, 2011
2:15 pm
[...] Rumors: Dwight Howard to the New Jersey Nets Hinges on ExtensionBleacher ReportUSA Today -Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) -Orlando Sentinelall 177 news [...]
joe kill
November 30th, 2011
2:17 pm
are we stupid if we trade for howard our young core will be gone really if we get dwight we will lose jsmooth and al and maybe joe just say hypothetically that this deal is done where is our offense going to come from and dwight howard cant shoot free throws at lease al and josh can hit freethrows im so anti against this trade
bulldogmaniac
November 30th, 2011
2:27 pm
Don’t trade Horford. He is da future!
Smith and Johnson for Howard!!!!!!!!!! I’m all in!
honest_abe
November 30th, 2011
2:27 pm
one can dream.
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
2:29 pm
Here’s a link to a Josh Robbins story in the Orlando Sentinel on the possibility of the Magic dealing Howard: http://ht.ly/7KbmF
Bill
November 30th, 2011
2:29 pm
Jeff the Magic would take Horford (2 Nattys at Florida) plus Smith.But I believe the Magic would want a first round draft pick.
What are the odds of this elite ownership resigning Howard?I would say less than 10%.
Mr. Riley
November 30th, 2011
2:29 pm
First off, you have to have a ownership that is committed to winning and building a nucleus and currently we don’t have that with ASG…nice idea to think about though…
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
2:31 pm
Bill (and others) — Obviously you don’t make the trade without assurances of DH signing an extension.
5150 UOAD
November 30th, 2011
2:31 pm
Howard has said more than once that he hates ATLANTA. His dad is still the DA and it would suck to have to prosecute your own son for being stupid. I would love Howard, but he has no interest in being in the ATL. Any idea how many old FRIENDS would be hitting him up for Favors and hanging on?
Ray
November 30th, 2011
2:31 pm
What is everyone’s real gripe with J-smoove cause we all know Al and JJ won’t sale the seats so if you get rid of J-smoove that place would be a ghost town.
Plus most of the defensive pressure comes from Smoove when he’s on the court he might not play as hard as he could, but still when he’s on the court it changes many opposing teams dynamics.
5150 UOAD
November 30th, 2011
2:33 pm
Wow we are discussing the WORST pro sport on the planet owned by the worst owners on the planet. WHO really wants to play in ATL?
marshall
November 30th, 2011
2:34 pm
How do u afford it .this is how,Give him part of the team.
Grandmaster JeJe
November 30th, 2011
2:39 pm
This blog probably took 15 minutes max to write. Not to mention I’ve mentioned this idea on AJC many times as a casual thought
Yeah good luck competing with a core of Dwight Josh and Marvin.
In case you didn’t realize, Orlando has had some LOADED rosters before and never won. Go look at their 09-10 roster..
SMDH
Grandmaster JeJe
November 30th, 2011
2:42 pm
Jeff Schultz
November 30th, 2011
1:24 pm
Mike — In your scenario, Hawks obviously would either bring in other players to support Howard and/or re-sign Jamal. But yes, there’s the possibility of taking a hit for a year before moving forward.
LinkReport this comment
Who would we sign, Mr. Schultz? The biggest player we have SIGNED in the last 5 years is Mo Evans.
Good Grief
November 30th, 2011
2:43 pm
Honestly, Jeff, it doesn’t matter to me what they do. As a matter of principle, I refuse to go into Philips Arena again until the ASG are no longer associated with it in anyway. Yes, this is because of what they did with the Thrashers. No marketing, no attempts at building a winning roster, and then selling the team and letting them go away for $120 million, after giving a single basketball player a six year deal for $119 million. That’s why I despise the ASG.
Lou Hudson
November 30th, 2011
2:45 pm
I finished my career with a great club the Los Angeles Lakers and so should Howard so he should go to the Lakers.
david
November 30th, 2011
2:56 pm
Please remember who still owns the Hawks.
Bama Mike
November 30th, 2011
2:58 pm
We can still dream. But when the Reality O Lever turns on your still talking about having to deal with the ASG and Rick Sund. Whom it does not appear that any quality players respect.
ryan
November 30th, 2011
3:02 pm
ASG has to make the trade for Howard they no longer have the Thrashers breathing down there necks the only way this ownership can make peace with the fans is to bring him home he wants to play with friend Josh Smith .
JSS
November 30th, 2011
3:04 pm
1st Drive-by Hawks blog of the new season!
I hate trades in your own division… If you trade for Howard, the only pieces that can’t go away are Josh and Teague… The rest, good riddance!
Section 303
November 30th, 2011
3:07 pm
What a stupid article.
Grandmaster JeJe
November 30th, 2011
3:09 pm
Schultz thinks reuniting Smoove and Dwight will make us go further in the Playoffs. LOL
Stuart
November 30th, 2011
3:17 pm
I saw on ESPN today that Atlanta is one of the few teams (reportedly) that Chris Paul would accept a trade to and sign a long term deal with. Any chance the Hawks would try to trade for CP3? If so, who would they likely deal?
judy
November 30th, 2011
3:18 pm
This sounds great just as long as they keep Joe!!!!!!! He is are best player!!!! I can’t wait until the games begin. A true Hawks an Braves fan!!!!!!!!!!!!
newkid
November 30th, 2011
3:23 pm
SteveW, for what it’s worth, your suspicion is correct.
Lord
November 30th, 2011
3:25 pm
You’re right, Jeff!
The Hawks should trade Josh and Al for Dwight! Marvin and Hinrich for Lebron!
Beachy and Hinske for Pujols!
AJC is awesome!!
stillsuperior
November 30th, 2011
3:30 pm
Great idea.
SWAT Native
November 30th, 2011
3:30 pm
Michael “Ice Man” Cunningham? I love it! I’m going to start calling him that!
newkid
November 30th, 2011
3:31 pm
@SteveW: “Watching Dwight interviews in the past – I actually think he wants to come to ATL.”
Don’t be surprised.
stillsuperior
November 30th, 2011
3:32 pm
But It is not happening. We should try and make a deal with one of the small market teams that are pissed because they did not get the CBA they wanted like the Bucks for Bogut.
Hawks2012
November 30th, 2011
3:32 pm
Agree 100% they should, but today I looked back at the playoffs last year and if they played with that intensity (not likely) for this year… they would probably win 52ish games. We have a lot of talent, especially in that #0 Jeff Teague, but if the opportunity presents itself let’s trade for Dwight. I’d imagine he would like to play with Jsmoove.
rocky
November 30th, 2011
3:41 pm
Jeff S. — Why in the world would Orlando want to take up Joe’s contract? If DH is traded — it would be for Josh Smith/Al Horford.
bill
November 30th, 2011
3:47 pm
I think Mr. Schultz has forgotten who owns this team…a great trade in theory, but it’s only a dream while the ASG is in charge.
Grimmshaw
November 30th, 2011
3:49 pm
Trade Johnson and Smith, but please keep Horford. From what I’ve seen Horford is a class act on and off the court.
David Smith
November 30th, 2011
4:03 pm
I agree with Gerhart76. I would love to have Howard come back home to play for the home team but three things will prevent this potential deal happening. 1. The ASG and Rick Sund want no part of a deal that would put them over the luxury tax, 2. Dwight has openly said that he wants to play for a bigger market team that would give him a chance to win a title, and 3. We simply don’t have enough pieces to offer Orlando much less anyone else to bring a star player here without giving up too much. Dwight would love playing with his buddy Josh Smith but the contract The ASG gave Joe Johnson last year will make getting anyone we pursue a challenge.
Child Please
November 30th, 2011
4:07 pm
Schultz, I can’t stop laughing at this headline. We don’t have 2 players worth D. Howard; now get serious.
Ray
November 30th, 2011
4:09 pm
I support Jeff Teague we don’t need someone like Chris Paul he’s a good player, but at least give the Jeff Teague experiment maybe 2 seasons at best we saw glimpses in the playoffs of what he could do.
boomboomjoe79
November 30th, 2011
4:16 pm
Jeff I love your thought process and sympathize with you. But, you know and I know,thisakes too much sense to pursue. Given the hawks (generally rick sund & asg) history,there going to make the stupidiest move ever. Doesn’t matter if it improves the team or not, just as long as its idiotic is all that counts for the hawks management & ownership. So, as an hawks fan that sat back and watched the worst contract ever given to a supar player in joe johnson unfold in front of my eyes, this will never happen cause it makes too much sense.
Negi Uno
November 30th, 2011
4:20 pm
@Ray
I support Teague, but he has never was a full stater and with Coach Drew on that beach, he will be going to Hinrich, every chance that Teague mess. Besides CP III is a type of player that Hawks need. A All-NBA PG and true leader on and off the court.
J
November 30th, 2011
4:29 pm
does it surprise anybody that a UGA person made a comment that they hate the ASG and will ever spend a dime in Philips? I mean, we already know you will never spend a dime here regardless … haha, lame comment
J
November 30th, 2011
4:31 pm
we can dream of getting Dwight Howard but it’s not going to happen … not even why we should waste our time commenting on it. It’s the same media crap as us getting Amare or us getting Iverson awhile back or us getting Shaq.
meh
November 30th, 2011
4:36 pm
Howard should buy the team and then trade for himself
Ray
November 30th, 2011
4:36 pm
@ Negi Uno
After what happened these past playoffs I think a lot of people will be screaming at LD for at least not giving Teague a chance. I honestly think anything against Teague is false most of the coaches to try and save their jobs try not to play the younger members much because they are “you’re fired” bait basically, but if you don’t play them and they get to another team 50/50 chance they turn into something big then it reflects heavily on the coach that chased them away.
Teague is able to hold his own against many of the PG’s in the league although he needs work on his shot that will come.
ryan
November 30th, 2011
4:45 pm
Chris Paul chatter seems interesting from hearing a lot people that he is buying a home in Atlanta and evens says that Hawks is a team he would like to play for only rumor right now we keep hearing is the Knicks .
cdog
November 30th, 2011
4:51 pm
this is a common sense trade.make it quickly.don’t mess around and let the lakers, celtics, heat or mavs get him.he belongs with the hawks.there is no player or players on the hawks roster that can come close to dwight howard. make the trade for him now, point blank.
James
November 30th, 2011
5:11 pm
Great idea but Joe Johnson has to go,if not to Orlando any other team is fine.Is there any team that would take on that contract? It just makes too much sense for the Sprirt to pull the trigger on this one.
DirtyBird87
November 30th, 2011
5:15 pm
DH is a vet. He has paid his dues. He’s looking to win NOW. If I were in his shoes im looking for a premade championship team. He’s not gonna want to start all over in a place like ATL.
DirtyBird87
November 30th, 2011
5:24 pm
Plus we’ve seen him get shut down in the playoffs …. by ATL! He’s simply a marketing tool. ATL not gonna win a championship with DH as the center piece.
Dante
November 30th, 2011
5:29 pm
First, the CBA would affect Howard next year as I dont think it takes effect until the 2013/14 season. I may be wrong. Second, Why would Orlando want any of those two combinations.? They are horrible. Sorry, I know you are a homer, but those guys are not superstars, they are barely stars. Good luck with your pipe dream. Hawks will be horrible this season.
joe
November 30th, 2011
5:36 pm
the can not happen for the hawks. The key to the deal for Orlando is getting rid of Turkaloo contract. The Hawks do not have the salary space
Gary
November 30th, 2011
5:38 pm
No team in their right mind would take JJ’s contract. We are stuck with him, but he can create shots. As long as we have someone to hit the open 3’s created when teams double team Howard, we can be a very good team. I would hate to lose Horford, though, and that’s who Orlando would want.
"Chef" Tim Dix
November 30th, 2011
5:43 pm
I would trade 7 for him and make Gearon a starter.
Forest (Gump)
November 30th, 2011
6:14 pm
Who do I need to talk to so that this can happen!!! Superman In The ATL!!!
alex
November 30th, 2011
6:36 pm
you dreaming Jeff, it not going to happen 100%, better find the way to trade asg out for any price with prohibition to be not close to Atlanta as 1000 ml, and do it asap because as thrashers gone hawks in danger becoming st. louis hawks again because of this clowns ruling.
stillsuperior
November 30th, 2011
6:40 pm
The Magic are going to trade Dwight to us right after the Lakers trade Kobe to Boston. (LMAO) Seriously guys. Let’s focus on something feasible like Kaman or Bogut.
Zaza, Kirk, and 2 2nd round picks for Kaman and Bledsoe
Zaza, Kirk, and a 1st round pick for Bogut
Both feasible for the following reasons:
Clippers are going to have to choose between DeAndre Jordan and Kaman, they are not paying both of those guys starters salary. So, Kaman will walk at the end of the year and they will get nothing in return if they don’t trade him.
Bucks may want to move Bogut and definitely would like to cut payroll and getting Zaza and Kirk’s expiring plus a #1 would let them cut payroll get a #1 pick and serviceable C.
James
November 30th, 2011
7:22 pm
@ 5150 UOAD
His dad is not Fulton County DA Paul Howard,that’s his uncle.His dad’s brother.
Sam
November 30th, 2011
7:22 pm
Amazing video of a high school senior from Columbia TN who kicks the ball dead straight 75-80 yards in the air. He was successful on 54 of 54 attempts this season….100%. Now he needs a college team. Wants to go to Georgia Tech!!!
Watch for yourself…it is unreal!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_JKwgwFY3g
James
November 30th, 2011
7:35 pm
I heard today that New Jersey(soon to be Brooklyn) will offer Brook Lopez and two first round picks to Orlando.I just get this feeling he will wind up a Laker.After Jerry West did his old team a favor by sending Paul Gasol to the Lakers for Javaris Crittenton,Kwame Brown and pocket change I believe anything can happen.
Burdell
November 30th, 2011
7:51 pm
Vote to ban Sam.
Wow
November 30th, 2011
8:14 pm
Do you have any REAL hawks news or just making a request to Santa? Anybody can write this stuff. How about some news????
Snoop Graham
November 30th, 2011
8:57 pm
It’s nice to dream but there’s no way Orlando would take on Joe Johnson’s contract. Plus any package involving Josh Smith would at best bring J.J. Reddick.
Z-Ro
November 30th, 2011
8:59 pm
i dont see how dwight and Al could coexist in the paint Al has a decent 15ft’er but i dont want him out there all the time…dwight and Joe would get into a fight over joe’s EMPTY chest during the playoffs!!….dwight and josh would give josh reason to go outside and shoots those jumpers we all moan and groan about BUT at least he has balls enough to take them BYE AL AND JOE!!!
NBA talk is finally about action on the court – USA Today | Basketball News Pro
November 30th, 2011
9:05 pm
[...] Big Three?Bleacher ReportAs buzz around NBA abounds, anger dissipatesSportingNews.comOlogy -Atlanta Journal Constitution (blog) -Orlando Sentinelall 273 news [...]
DawgNole
November 30th, 2011
9:09 pm
Ban Sam! Ban Sam! Ban Sam!
C’mon, everybody now . . . “Ban Sam! Ban Sam! Ban Sam!”
stizz
November 30th, 2011
9:18 pm
I would be ok with JJ and Horford, but not Horford and Smoove. Both are still under 25 and are the future. JJ, Horford, and a 1st and call it a day.
Angie O'Plasty
November 30th, 2011
9:20 pm
Are you kidding me ??? Howard is from Loserville USA, he won’t be coming here to play….no way !
Another GM
November 30th, 2011
9:39 pm
Jeff what did I say that got my post deleted?
I stated that the Hawks will do nothing but sign vet minimum players.
I would bet on the above statement.
Air Zaza
November 30th, 2011
9:57 pm
While I wouldn’t trade Horford for CP3 or Deron ever, I would trade him for Howard.
brigadierjerry
November 30th, 2011
10:14 pm
I will say this about Dwight Howard. Do I like Howard and want him on my team?Yes but I will say this He’s dominating because of the lack of Centers in the NBA.
All of the previous dominating Centers have won a Championship: Shaq,Duncan,Hakeem,Jabbar and WIlt. This dude hasn’t won jack chit yet. He’s just a big overgrown baby who likes to pound the rock and have everyone stop and watch him dunk. He ain’t ever winning a championship… yeah I said it!
He couldn’t carry Kareem’s jock strap… Tim Duncan was 1000x the player Dwight howard is. He’s only in the NBA because of his size, period.Dwight Howard wouldn’t even be a guaranteed starter 15 years ago
Big Dog
November 30th, 2011
10:15 pm
D.Howard has made it clear that Josh is his boy, they roll together and have the talent to take the hawks to the highest. If they get their wish the will play with full intensity and absolutely expect to win. There is a reason they tape so many commercials together. Theyve been buddies all their lives. Let them play together like they want to.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rVIU8fJQ8w
http://atlanta.sbnation.com/atlanta-hawks/2011/8/11/2358262/dwight-howard-adidas-commercial-josh-smith
Roy
November 30th, 2011
10:21 pm
In all honesty I think if orlando was to trade howard it would have to be for Al and a combination of players and picks. Dont feel orlando will take just smoove and horford. Horford has bigger upside.
Big Dog
November 30th, 2011
10:49 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eomAsZ-evE&feature=related
Lets ball!
Big Dog
November 30th, 2011
10:52 pm
OK last one…. trout sandwich ya’ll
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKHUaTIsPjM&feature=related
Rationale
November 30th, 2011
11:19 pm
As little as I like Joe Johnson, I just got to thinking, Howard is one of the few NBA players who could come here and make Joe Johnson a better player. I can see him adjusting Johnson’s attitude. Male the offer and the trade.
Rationale
November 30th, 2011
11:22 pm
Of course, that should be “make the offer and the trade.” but try to keep Horford too.
Pete
December 1st, 2011
12:10 am
Dwight Howard and Chris Paul need to go to the Knicks there lineup would be awesome.
1. Chris Paul
2. Landry Fields
3. Carmelo Anthony
4. Amare Stoudemire
5. Dwight Howard
NBA talk is finally about action on the court – USA Today | Sports News Alert
December 1st, 2011
12:47 am
[...] Be MurkierNew York TimesNBA Rumors: Teams Determined To Make a Big Splash This SeasonBleacher ReportHawks should trade any two players for Dwight HowardAtlanta Journal Constitution (blog)Ology -FS Florida -Orlando Sentinelall 276 news [...]
Tom Shane
December 1st, 2011
1:22 am
I have to say this would be a very stupid idea. Josh is an awesome defender and when his playing smart he’s defiantly one of the top 10 players in the league. Plus without Horford, Howard wouldn’t have a true power forward to back him up especially in terms of outside shooting. Finally and probably most importantly Joe is way overpaid, lacks true top tier skill, and not a clutch post season player. All in all ATL would lose to much in the process for Orlando to accept this trade and wouldn’t. be a deep playoff threat.
SaintSparky
December 1st, 2011
6:40 am
How about JJ and JS for Howard, and the trade away Kirk, Marvin and a first round pick for Chris Paul ? Why not dream a little…
SaintSparky
December 1st, 2011
6:43 am
Just checked the trade machine, and it would work like this:
Joe Johnson and Josh Smith from Hawks to Magic for Dwight Howard and Jason Richardson, then Kirk Hinrich and Marvin Williams and a first round pick to NO for Chris Paul. Works salary-wise, and what a team the Hawks would have !!!
count_schemula
December 1st, 2011
6:52 am
Break up the whole team, keep Horford. Get Chris Paul.
Blahblahblah
December 1st, 2011
7:05 am
Pipe dream.
SaintSparky
December 1st, 2011
7:22 am
Or try and trade for Monta Ellis, a prolific scorer, but then you really would need to get JJ out of town, the two couldn’t fit in my opinion. I agree with alot of you that say the Hawks are not going to make it past the Bulls or Heat, so I say blow up the team and bring in players that can ! See m proposals before, I could see a starting lineup looking like this:
PG Paul
SG JRich or Ellis
SF Wilkins
PF Horford
C Howard
Mid Town Joe
December 1st, 2011
8:11 am
3 months until pre-season baseball.
Edward
December 1st, 2011
8:41 am
It will never happen. I wish it would but you are talking about the Atlanta Hawks.
MikeyBoy
December 1st, 2011
8:50 am
If he would want to come to the hawks it d be for
1. His Family
2. Hes friends with Josh Smith they played ball together growing up in the Atlanta area. Image the shot blocks or many I mean.
3. Its HotLAnTA baby. Stars flock to this city.
MikeyBoy
December 1st, 2011
8:51 am
And its interesting ESPN reporting that Paul also might have interest in the Atlanta Hawks. Maybe he knows something we dont about Howard?!? Who knows?!?!
Nique
December 1st, 2011
9:18 am
Hawks should sigh Tyson Chandler who’s not planning to resign with Dallas & with him & AL up front, totally change the Defensive feel of our team!
Avoid Philips At All Costs
December 1st, 2011
9:28 am
Until ATLANTA @)($&#($&* GROUP is gone, do not give a DIME to these clowns! I’m NOT saying to not be a Hawks fan… watch from home, a bar… but do not give ASG the pleasure of your hard earned money. Stay home. Do NOT go to Philips Arena. After what they have done to this city with the Thrashers and the botch of the sale of the Hawks, ASG has NO place in this city OR state! Next thing we know they’ll have sold the Hawks and they’ll be gone too. THEY CAN NOT BE TRUSTED. Go BACK to Philips WHEN, and ONLY WHEN, ASG is 100% gone from this city and has NOTHING to do with Atlanta, Philips Arena or the Hawks.
J
December 1st, 2011
9:30 am
everybody is STILL commenting on something that is NOT GOING TO HAPPEN … reword that, NEVER GOING TO HAPPEN. I can say that Josh Smith should be gone either this or next season. He’s run his course here and will not listen to a thing a coach says.
J
December 1st, 2011
9:33 am
Avoid Philips – really? i should avoid my Hawks b/c you lost your Thrashers? haha, lame! The sale of the team didnt go through b/c it turns out Mr. Alex wasn’t as liquid as he said he was. That was reported by numerous sources. It had nothing to do with the ASG. Go cry somewhere else. At least the Hawks are relevant.
Avoid Philips At All Costs
December 1st, 2011
9:36 am
J, you are a silly litle human. Do you realize the scum of the earth the ASG is? Are you blinded? I’m not saying to not be a Hawks fan. I’m saying ASG does not deserve to be trusted or supported after they “SOLD” the Hawks and botched it. How can they be trusted? Your ignorance is astounding. They are, by far, the single WORST ownership group in the country. The Hawks are not as relevant as you might think because they have NEVER made it to that next level. Better, yes, but let’s be real, still the HAWKS we are talking about. If you trust, ASG that is your choice. But a very ignorant one to trust anyone with ASG. DEAL WITH IT as they said.
chris
December 1st, 2011
9:42 am
I sure wish Joe would get some more love on the blogs. Everyone knows he was overpaid, but that does not take away everything he has done, and can do on the basketball court. He can create his own shot, shots for others, he can score, pass, defend, and rebound. He is big and athletic, in a smooth sort of way, not jumping out of the gym. He can take us to the finals, just not by himself. Management had a belief in a Detroit system of 5 good players, not two or three great players. The Hawks would be no better if they traded Joe for Dwight. Keep Joe, trade a package starting with Horford, plus 3 first round picks spread out over six years. Teague, Johnson, Prince (FA signing), Smith, Howard – That would be a great defensive, rebounding team, with the ability to score. Championship!!!
boom
December 1st, 2011
10:16 am
This is like beating a dead horse. I see this article every year near the start of basketball season. Guess what….every year it fails to happen.
chris
December 1st, 2011
10:24 am
You just wasted alot of ink on something the Hawks will never do. Besides, WHO CARES ABOUT THE NBA!! By the time games start we’ll be ready for the NFL Playoffs, the Bowl Games will be set to carry us into February. Then we have March Madness around the corner which I’d much rather watch than the NBA anyway. Then the Boys of Summer start Spring training. I personally wish they had stayed on strike and just not bothered to play
Pistol Pete
December 1st, 2011
10:38 am
They can have anyone on the roster as long as they take Marvin with them!
JJ_IS_TERRIBLE
December 1st, 2011
10:41 am
Yes please. Joe Johnson is probably gonna average about 15 a game and josh smith hassnt gotten the message that he cant make 3s. If you trade them 2 you have teague, horford, and dwight howard. You will have the money to go get a scorer. Teague show he can score and start at pg and horford wpud be a real good pf. This trade would be great as long as you get JJ and Smoove out of town. They hurt the team more than help.
JJ_IS_TERRIBLE
December 1st, 2011
10:49 am
NBA trade machine confirmed: JJ and Smoove for Howard and JJ Reddick and Hinrich and Teague for Rondo. Hell of a team
Sol
December 1st, 2011
11:17 am
Jeff, Great job for bringing up about Dwight, i was waiting for some body to bring it up, why not , this is once a life time oppurtunty why not try. We should do any thing to make it happen. He is a home town hero. He might want to come home
Ken Strickland
December 1st, 2011
11:20 am
With all due respect to you TRADE FANATICS, I think it would be downright stupid for the Hawks to potentially wreak it’s franchise by giving up 2 Allstars, or an Allstar and a potential Allstar, just to rent DHoward for 66gms. If Orlando can’t persuade him not to opt out of his contract, or resign, what makes anyone think we can persuade him not to do the same?
It would be different if he had indicated at anytime that Atlanta was one of his top preferences. Suppose we were foolish enough to trade for him and he decides not to stay, what would we be left with then? The only way I would ever consider, for 1 second, trading for DHoward is if he accepted a sign and trade. That way, we’d know he’s wiling to stay here long term, because we’d have him signed to a long term contract.
Otherwise, QUIT ALL OF THIS DOGGONE DELUSIONAL BS, AND WISHFUL THINKING, AND START DEALING WITH REALITY, IF YOU CAN.
ryan
December 1st, 2011
11:28 am
People say it wont happen but the chatter is getting bigger and bigger for Howard never say never .
wesley
December 1st, 2011
11:57 am
I think anyone with a nickname as lame as J-Smoove should be a top trade priority regardless of skill or talent….not to mention the horrible lack of effort and poor attitude. How can anyone cheer for a guy like that? Very difficult to pull for or even watch these guys. The NBA has a terrible image and the Hawks are near the top of that list. It would be nice to see “Superstars” such as Kobe and LeBron act like MEN and not complain like children EVERY time they drive to the hoop!!
J.J.M.
December 1st, 2011
12:05 pm
im pretty sure howard wants to play next to josh if he was traded here with that being said hawks would have to trade horford and someone else maybe joe but his contract is crazy…so this trade will never happen
J.J.M.
December 1st, 2011
12:11 pm
http://www.peachtreehoops.com/2011/12/1/2602721/nba-trade-josh-smith-atlanta-hawks
Stuart
December 1st, 2011
12:30 pm
I like a trade of Jeff Teague and two draft picks for Howard but the problem is no point guard.
Mr Mojo
December 1st, 2011
12:34 pm
Thay Yahoo article is the worst article i ever seen. Declining and out of shape? He is 25 years old. I guess that clown didn’t watch the series against the Bulls where Josh and Teague were the onyl players that showed any heart.
carefree002
December 1st, 2011
12:39 pm
Absolutely! they need to make this happen any way they can!
Inglewood, Calif
December 1st, 2011
1:31 pm
Howard to the LAKERS…..
Gate way to the West
December 1st, 2011
2:06 pm
This would be a kick in the ATL’s face, Hawks move (back) to St. Louis.
Kyle
December 1st, 2011
2:32 pm
Wouldn’t this work?
http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=7bl2eh8
Tremaine
December 1st, 2011
3:13 pm
I don’t think I will be able to get over 2005 until Chris Paul retire.
Ken Strickland
December 1st, 2011
6:02 pm
JEFF SHULTZ-Please answer the following question for me.
1-Exactly how many NBA titles has Orlando won with DHoward?
2-What makes you think DHoward would stay in Atlanta after we’ve depleting our roster to acquire him, when his reason for wanting out of Orlando is a lack of the talent he thinks is needed to win a title?
3-If Orlando chooses AHorford, which is a certainty, and either JJ or Josh, and then Dwight exits after 66gms, what shape would our franchise be in then, especially with us not having a 1st rd draft pick.
I understand you’re trying to gain readership, but there are better ways to get it done than stirring up all of these DELUSIONAL TRADE FANATICS with trades suggestions that will never happen. The best and only moves the Hawks can or need to make involves our bench. Our starting lineup will be just fine, regardless of how it’s constructed.
Last yr, we got a whole lot further than anyone ever expected, and that was without Hinrich, with Teague having very little experience, and with JJ and Horford playing at less than 100%. I see this yrs Hawk team being a whole lot better than last yrs, and here’s why:
1-Will have KHinrich at the start of the season, and he’ll be healthy and fully indoctrinated into our OFF/DEF systems,
2-We’ll start the season with the same confident JTeague who was our MVP during our playoff run,
3-All of our returning players will have had a full yr under LDrew and his OFF and DEF systems.
4-We’ll be able to improve our bench by replacing the dead weight we had on last yrs bench, like EThomas and JPowell.
The big question that needs to be answered is,
1-Will Teague be given the WOODY TREATMENT again, or will he be given an honest chance to win the starting PG position?
2-Will JJ replace MWilliams at SF, which will give us a backcourt of Hinrich and Teague, or will he remain at SG?
Personally, I’d love to see us move JJ to SF, and start both Teague and Hinrich at guard. That lineup would be solid as a rock defensively, but might require us to acquire another quality backup PG to go with DWilkins, assuming he’s resigned. The other PG option would be for us to show confidence in Pape Sy’s ability to get the job done.
With his size, quickness, penetrating ability, and solid DEF, I’d give him every chance to succeed or fail before I waste a spot of another PG. I would especially consider it with Hinrich and JJ’s ability to function at the position. A 4 guard rotation of Hinrich, Teague, Wilkins and Sy would give us solid DEF, depth, and a great combination of speed, size, quickness, and experience.
Sambo 4 Rambo
December 1st, 2011
6:12 pm
HA! HA! HA! HA! This column made me laugh. Not really. No one thats worth a crap would come to ATL to play basketball…unless your an average player that gets paid 68 billion dollars a year…joe johnson (caugh)
Z-Ro
December 1st, 2011
6:59 pm
Enter your comments here
Z-Ro
December 1st, 2011
7:02 pm
it would be the funny ish ever to trade Marvin and Teague and a 1st for chris paul when we couldve had him back in 05!!! Marvin runs the court like he needs a pedicure and a chiropractor NOBODY wants that trash….OAN; Has anyone ever seen someone in atlanta with a joe Johnson jersey??
EmirS.
December 1st, 2011
8:14 pm
Yea Ken is right,
What happens if he decides not to sign long-term with us?
I also don’t believe we can give up “any” two players to get him. Combination of Josh and Al would have to go. Joe is our deep threat. Having a frontline of Howard and Josh/Al would make us one dimensional. Every team would make protecting the paint as part of their main gameplan. And even if you sign someone, they would have to be able to handle the ball, make the 3, make the inside 2, create their own shot, and play defense.
With a Joe/Howard combo you get the best of both worlds. Howard can kick out and Joe can laser it into the paint. You spread the floor and you allow someone like Teague to cut for an easy basket.
ryan
December 1st, 2011
8:16 pm
Paul to the Knicks does not look like will happen because they have no one they can trade so is still a window .
2011 NBA free agency buzz: Trail Blazers reportedly reach out to Jamal Crawford, Nene (links) | Portland OR DIRECTV Service
December 1st, 2011
9:30 pm
[...] Jeff Schultz, Atlanta Journal Constitution: Hawks should trade any two players for Dwight [...]
Just saying..
December 1st, 2011
9:52 pm
And Marv Albert says “YEEEESS!
STRONG HAWK
December 2nd, 2011
9:28 am
ANYBODY BUT AL. AL IS THE LEADER OF TEAM AND THE BACKBONE, MAYBE MORE OF A LEADER THAN D HOWARD. SO NO AI STAYS !!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 3rd, 2011
10:34 am
Horford for Bogut and shooter USA Select Team’s Jon Leuer for perimeter. bench Marvin for Leuer. Keep the slimmer Smith inside.
Bogut and Smith defend the Lebrons and Dwights. Hand the reigns to Teague and Johnson to distribute.
nique
December 3rd, 2011
1:29 pm
He gets booed all the time here, don’t think he’d want to come.
Theresa
December 3rd, 2011
3:46 pm
Hawks need to trade Joe Johnson and Josh Smith if they are going to make a trade. Joe contract is outrageous never should have been paid that much and Josh thinks he’s a shooting guard wanting to shoot three’s when you are a bad free throw shooter. Get Dwight and resign Jamal.
Theresa
December 3rd, 2011
3:49 pm
Oh I forgot Marvin Williams just give him away in the trade he is not worth 2 cents.
dwight gone
December 4th, 2011
10:00 am
dwight’s heading to LA–book it. 24/7 club scene, movie/music deals, superstars at courtside everynight, beach mansions, wild hollywood chicks everywhere looking for money, millions in endorsement cash……
Joe
December 5th, 2011
7:47 am
I didn’t think it would be possible for the Hawks to get Howard (and, am still very pessimistic) but I think he would be a great addition and I would think your scenario of trades would be well worth it! But, aren’t Dwight Howard and Josh Smith good friends and if so, wouldn’t (couldn’t) that be another possible enticement for Howard?
MitchC
December 5th, 2011
6:31 pm
I dont see this happening. The Hawks have never even been to the Eastern Finals. Atlanta ia a very aptethetic basketball town, with little fan base. I would be very surprised if Howard ended up in Atlanta.
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 5th, 2011
9:14 pm
If we cant get superstar Horford go for Bogut who’s rumored to be in a 3way if Horford’s value is this high…
Jon Leuer > Marvin Williams. Hawks have a 7 foot shooting forward for next decade.
Josh Smith PnR, slimmer, dunking giant. hoop and harm > pick and pop Horford
Andrew Bogut > Jason Collins
Jeff.Joe.Jon Leuer.Smith.Bogut
B.o.B
December 5th, 2011
9:15 pm
Hey Jeff,
You heard the latest rumors swirling around CP3 and the Hawks in a trade? You know anything?