Joe Johnson finding his rhythm — and so are Hawks
The look says it all as Joe Johnson sinks a jumper to seal the Hawks' four-overtime win over Utah Sunday night. (AP photo)
There is a tendency in pro sports to measure pro athletes by the number of digits in their paychecks. It follows that expectations of what Joe Johnson is supposed to be reside somewhere just south of Zeus-ian.
So let’s start with this: Yes, Johnson makes a lot of money. He will continue to make a lot of money. He probably has an ATM in his pantry, just to the left of the case of Beluga caviar.
He is the only person in Atlanta who this week will drive past that billboard that reads, “Mega Millions: $356 million” and think, “You know, I just don’t know if I want to fill out all of that paper work for another direct deposit account.”
But in what is turning into a rather remarkable Hawks’ season, Johnson has been far more than a dollar sign with ears lately. The guy known for 2-ton-W-2, with too few big moments and too few big games, has been a relative wonder on the court.
Johnson scored 18 points in a perfect eight-for-eight first quarter Sunday night against Utah. Then the legs went dead, or so we thought. On a night when the Hawks continued to amaze — winning a four-overtime game on the third night of a back-to-back-to-oh-my-back — Johnson provided the most jaw-dropping of moments.
He scored eight points in the fourth overtime. He did not take a rest in any of the OTs. He finished the night with 37 points. He played 55 minutes, 23 seconds of playing time, bringing his three-night total to 126 miutes. There might’ve been a five-mile swim in there, too, but nobody can remember. The Hawks won 139-133 win over the Jazz at Philips Arena and, with this latest spasm, are now 10 games over .500 (30-20).
Zaza Pachulia cracked later that players were dragging so much, “It looked like a 40-and-over game” down the stretch.
Coach Larry Drew said, “I know they were out of gas because I was out of gas.” And he was a suit.
The ultimate survivor was Johnson — again.
Like many players coming out of the lockout, Johnson started the season slow. Like many in this hellish condensed schedule, he had to sit out games (six) with an injury (knee). Unlike many, he has emerged of late a different player. In 11 games since returning from knee tendinitis, Johnson has averaged 24.5 points on 50-percent shooting. Compare that to his scoring averages (16.3, 19.8, 14.5) and field goal percentages (43.6, 43.6, 39.3) in December, January and February, respectively.
Josh Smith had been this team’s best player this season, particularly since Al Horford was lost for the year. But Johnson now is doing something he has been criticized so often for not doing – carrying his team when it’s needed most.
“When we lost Al, [Johnson and Smith] had to elevate their games for us to still win at a high level,” coach Larry Drew said. “The other guys could kind of piggyback on them. I know they felt a little bit of pressure, that they had to take on more of a burden.”
Johnson conceded Sunday what Drew suspected – that his left knee started bothering him long before he went to the bench in late February. He said the pain began a month earlier, less than 20 games into the season. “But it was in and out,” he said. So he kept playing.
He missed six games in a seven-game stretch, including the All-Star break, a span of over two weeks. That benefited him in more ways than just rest. “It gives you a different perspective on the bench, a different view,” he said. “You’re able to see things that you can be better at than when you’re on the court. I could see where the double teams were. I just tried to come out and be more efficient.”
He was more than that down the stretch. It was Johnson who hit a three-point shot with seven seconds left in the second overtime to extend the game (again). Ultimately, Drew knew who would decide his team’s fate.
“We were running every option through Joe,” he said.
Good choice.
By Jeff Schultz
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
71 comments Add your comment
Big Lou
March 25th, 2012
10:19 pm
First!
Big Lou
March 25th, 2012
10:24 pm
“He probably has an ATM in his pantry, just to the left of the case of Beluga caviar.”
Good line.
Heck of a game. I loved every moment of it–very memorable. Jeff, have you seen the past few games? Joe has made late shot after shot.
Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there… WITH A CLUTCH GENE!
brandon
March 25th, 2012
10:26 pm
There’s too much talent on this team for them to keep being mediocre in my opinion.
Najeh Davenpoop
March 25th, 2012
10:31 pm
He’s been ballin’ since he came back from injury. He’s always going to be overpaid, but as long as he’s getting the most out of his talent, who cares? If someone offered to overpay me I wouldn’t say no.
keepinitreal
March 25th, 2012
10:36 pm
Larry Drew should be a Coach of the Year candidate in all honesty. I don’t always like his X’s and O’s, but what a job he’s done holding this team together through a ton of injuries.
4 OT Thriller
March 25th, 2012
10:36 pm
Was at game! I’m exhausted. Took my wife and two boys…we had a blast. It was there first game. Great weather. 6pm start. Flatbreads. Cokes. Wings. Peanuts. 4 OTs. And, bought 2 mini basketballs for $12 each ($24 total).
One of my sons, the oldest, usually doesn’t appear to have a great time at sporting events with me (though his Dad played pro baseball with NY Yankees). But, today…he screamed and yelled the entire game. He’s was loving it. Heck, my wife was dancing and getting into it.
I’m glad we one. I know we got our money’s worth. Both boys, 11 and 8, were asleep by the time we hit North Druid Hills exit heading toward Norcross (The Forum). Thanks Atlanta Hawks for a truly remarkable game. Way to fight for the ATL!
4 OT Thriller
March 25th, 2012
10:38 pm
Sorry for spelling errors. Hard to type on cell phone.
Corrections:
It was their first game (not there).
I’m glad we won (not one).
phil
March 25th, 2012
10:41 pm
I played for the Red Sox myself…
Seriously, glad the family enjoyed it so much.
doc
March 25th, 2012
10:42 pm
thanks jeff for giving the guy cred. both josh and jj and others have been balling hard playing mainly to their strengths since that slump in early feb. back to high water mark of plus ten. i didnt figure we would see it again.
phil
March 25th, 2012
10:43 pm
This team isn’t mediocre when Joe and Josh decide to show up, play with heart and use some sense.
That’s what’s so dang frustrating about them though.
Inconsistency.
Trainwreck
March 25th, 2012
10:44 pm
Proud of the Hawks tonight… really showed some heart!
chalkdawg4
March 25th, 2012
10:48 pm
4 OT it sounds like a blast. Thanks for the commens. I may take my family down for a game.
FreshfromATL
March 25th, 2012
10:49 pm
One minute I dislike the Hawks then they go out and show some heart like over the past couple of games. These dudes need to stop playing with my emotions!
@TimothyGonzalez
March 25th, 2012
10:57 pm
Its nice to see the rotation taking shape as we near the playoffs.
I love the idea of 1.Teauge, 2.Kirk, 3.Joe, 4 Josh, 5.Zaza with..LD bringing Marvin in off the bench. My hope is that LD see’s that Collins is a waist of mins and casts him away to the end of the bench and lets “Mr.9to5″ continue to get more time..
For this first time since this “core” has been together, I feel like we FINALLY have the supporting cast to hold it down when Joe & Josh need a blow. I’ll take Marvin, Ivan, Willie, T-Mac, and the occasional Stackhouse sighting against any ones 2nd unit.
Hawks getting it together ppl, these guys are going to gel and really make a push for the 4th seed.
We’ve got a great chance to do anything once the playoffs get here…and just imagine if we get AL back!!! #ComeToPlay
hawkfan
March 25th, 2012
11:00 pm
Amazing (and quite fortunate) win and great effort… at this point it makes you wonder what kind of season it could have been if (i) it weren’t for the lockout and brutal schedule and (ii) a healthier squad with Horford. I believe 60 wins could have been within reach.
hawkfan
March 25th, 2012
11:05 pm
@ TimG: Absolutely – Horford will find a way to make an impact, even if it’s just coming off the bench. He is too competitive and too hard-working to do otherwise.
The Hawks could really give any team in the East a tough time come playoff time. I just hope they continue to get healthier …
Freshmaker
March 25th, 2012
11:17 pm
That’s a good point, hawkfan. We’ve played the Heat and Bulls really well. I think two of our Heat losses were very close, and we won there once. The Bulls loss was narrow and we beat them pretty handily twice if memory serves. If we can get Al back, look out.
New Orleans 'Inhales'
March 25th, 2012
11:19 pm
This dissing of Joe Johnson has gotten out of hand. It’s not like he’s Jon Contract, um, KONCAK!
bulldogbubba
March 25th, 2012
11:29 pm
Pretty good for a team thats reminded of being down a man all the time.
steve brown
March 25th, 2012
11:30 pm
I’m one of those boycott guys due to ASG, however, it is getting harder and harder not to root for these players. Hell, way to go Hawks you made us proud!
flintrock70
March 26th, 2012
12:10 am
Heck of a game fellas. Great heart tonight.
JSS
March 26th, 2012
3:46 am
What up Phil?
Don’t look now but look who’s in reach of having home court against everyone except San Antonio or OKC? Ro-oh!!!
soullrenaissance
March 26th, 2012
4:42 am
Its good to see Joe emerge as the clutch closer this team has desperately needed since JC1 left. JJ is a hard working dude. Much success for the remainder of the season and postseason.
J-bone
March 26th, 2012
5:10 am
Proud of this team! Way to fight guys! Keep it up!
tyger
March 26th, 2012
5:15 am
Great Win, period!!! LD – Coach of the Year?
JJohnson showed why he gets the Zeros…..
LD developing a pedigree…show him the money…
ZaZa – 15pts., 20reb. – isssheed!!!
Marvin – just wont go away – hang in their Marvin..
Teague starting to figure it out…
Back to LD – 1st time head coach – lowest paid…
Minus Horford – Dead man walking – Not!!!
LD showing what he’s made of – and I like it…
He’s managed an infirmary to 4th in East….
Bigger names fall like flies…Del Negro, Westphal, D’Antonio, McMillan..
LD just keeps on winning… .500+ record not good, but…
Minus blown FTs, layups, 18pt. leads – they’re right there…
And its not luck, its not happenstance, its not despite him…
Yes, we have a couple great players who have stepped up…
Look at ball movement, fresh plays, depth, player development…
Yes, player development: ZaZa is back, JSmoove, Teague are surging…
Now, he’s developing his playoff rotation…Hinrich, Green, Collins, Ivan…
You barely notice the absence of Pargo, Vladi, TMac…why?
All have contributed to big wins this year…why? LD
Not to take away from JJs great performance, but why now?
LD inserted Hinrich and slid JJ to SF, teams punished for doubling now…
JJ getting better 1-on-1 looks – give the man his props…
He knows what he’s doing…in fact, LD for Coach of the Year!
Wilbo
March 26th, 2012
6:30 am
You write like a 3rd grader who had Snickers for breakfast.
IceColdATLien
March 26th, 2012
6:36 am
I’m telling y’all, it’s all about having him in that “3 guard” lineup, which I think is really just a regular lineup since Joe is really a SF. Yes, he shoots (normally) like a 2 and can handle the rock like a 2, and he does have more advantages posting up smaller 2s, but it ain’t like his bread a butter is found down on the blocks. And, yes, it also means he has to guard bigger guys at the 3, but I prefer to see that since there aren’t too many SFs that are taller AND stronger than Joe… but there are plenty of 2s who are quicker than Joe, which negates the size advantage he has on the other end when those quicker 2s gotta guard him (especially since he doesn’t use much of a back-to-the-basket game). Let’s just recognize that the Hawks are a much better squad with Kirk and Jeff mixing and matching who does what each night depending on the other team’s backcourt, having Joe with quickness and perimeter advantages over most 3s in the league, and then you get the added bonus of strengthening your bench by bringing Marvin in as your 6th man.
Ok, don’t go crazy on me yet, y’all. I know that Marvin is Marvin, but I think his mentality is better coming off the bench (he’s kinda laid back personality-wise and coming off the bench knowing his minutes will be dictated by his impact instead of simply handing him 30+min/night just cuz that’s what starters are supposed to get…) it makes him focus better and become more aggressive, which have always been his main problems when you get right down to it. Plus, having Marvin as your 6th man provides flexibility cuz if any of the 1,2, or 3 guys get in foul trouble, Marvin can come in and you just rotate around who’s left of Kirk, Jeff, or Joe to fill out the backcourt… and against some teams Marvin can actually play the PF spot.
I’ve been screaming for the Jeff-Kirk-Joe-Josh-(wish it were Al, but…)-Zaza starting lineup since Kirk got his legs back under him after missing first 18 games. Not that I’m a bball savant or anything, but it just seemed like the best option since Marvin was always the weak link of our starting five… and that includes Zaza, who’s had a better year filling in at starting C than most of us give him credit for. Kirk isn’t really a bench guard (comes in fast and loose, willing and able to score in bunches and/or push the pace) but rather more of a natural PG (son of a former coach) who will consistently get the team in the correct offensive sets, makes good defensive rotation calls, is sort of a coach on the court, and (most importantly) takes some of the pressure off of Jeff for having to “run the team” instead of being instinctive, athletic, and aggressive… the three things which tend to result in Jeff having a good game and a positive net effect on the team overall. While I don’t want Kirk coming off the bench, I sure as hell don’t want Jeff coming off the bench, either. Too much raw ability and talent that will only come to fruition with PT.
When healthy, we got Pargo and Green who are quite capable of playing PG, especially when Tracy is out there with them to help take care of the rock as a point-forward kinda player. So it never made sense to me for Drew to rotate Kirk and Jeff in and out for one another. In the beginning, sure, because Kirk had to get his legs and stroke back after shoulder surgery (I’ve had shoulder surgery and a spinal fusion, and the shoulder was tougher to come back from believe it or not), but now that Kirk is ballin’ again, it’s a beautiful thing to watch Kirk and Jeff play together with each utilizing what he does best and hiding the deficiencies of the other (Kirk’s lack of quickness to stay in front of the super-fast PGs and his inability to get into the paint and cause havoc, while Jeff’s indecisiveness and sometimes outright stupid plays end up hurting his confidence… and there ain’t much worse for a team than a starting PG who’s down on himself). Another bonus is that this lineup keeps Joe from having too much ball-handling responsibility, which wears on him over the course of a game & also keeps him from falling into the Iso-Joe bad habits that he developed under Woodson’s “if Joe don’t do it, then we’re f’ed” philosophy.
There’s no doubt that Joe is having a very nice run of games since he’s had some time to get that knee healed up, but let’s not forget the benefits he’s receiving by starting at the 3 alongside Jeff and Kirk… and let’s also not forget what all of this is doing for the team as a whole: racking up Ws!!!
tyger
March 26th, 2012
7:05 am
IcecoldATLien – Agreed for the most part –
Gotta watch Hinrich – tweaked hamstring again, cost us last year…
It’s playoffs or bust for Tmac – gotta get right by playoffs…
Stackhouse, Dampier are going to be luxuries come playoffs…
Side note: Look at what LD is doing w Vladi…
6′10 shooter now contributing close to basket, 3 offensive reb other night…
If we get Big Al back in time to get a rhythm, we could be dangerous…
It’ll cost Ivan/ZaZa some minutes but we’ll leave that to LD…
Team taking on the personality of the coach – tough, perserverant, underdogs
RA
March 26th, 2012
7:26 am
I’m going to say something that I don’t say often, good article Schultz. I think that with the struggles that this team has had this year (many of which stemming from injuries, this unholy schedule, no respect from the officials…etc), it’s easy to miss what an extraordinary job this team has done. Now granted, beating New Jersey and Washington, that’s not going to open many eyes, but last night, they took out a playoff team that had been playing great ball and simply refused to quit. (And don’t lose the job that, everyone’s favorite draft pick, Marvin Williams did, and has been doing off the bench.) I think that Sunde put a much better team together this year than anyone will ever give him credit for, and I believe this team has more heart than anyone thought that they did. I mean, be honest, after that last long road trip, this team looked dead in the water, but now, even without Horford, they’re starting to look like a team that could challenge for the three seed in the east, and a team that secretly, Chicago and Miami would just as soon bypass in the first round. Now, I’m not saying that Atlanta could take either of those teams, but I believe if they play up to snuff they could give them one heck of a limp on their way through… What bothers me most though is that this team REALLY deserves to have a solid home base, and some respect around the league, but I don’t know if they’ll ever get it, and I’ll never figure out why.
KBP
March 26th, 2012
8:02 am
Great win. Josh and Joe have been incredible, especially Josh. Hope we don’t trade him. Now, Marvin, who is underappreciated by most Hawks fans, is a very solid SF. Playing better on second unit because he is getting shots. Talent has always been there but only got 6-8 shots per game as a starter over the last 2 years. Clearly in the top half of SF in the league. Can anyone name 15 better SF’s? Hope we don’t trade him unless we can get a real center in return.
Mick
March 26th, 2012
8:12 am
RA I agree with you. “This team REALLY deserves to have a solid home base, and some respect around the league.” The problem is as Hawks fans, we’ve been bitten so many times. Every time I embrace this team, they’ll go out and lose by 35 or 40 at home. All though I must confess, that hasn’t been the case this year. I also must say that I’m putting aside the issues that I have with the ownership group and will get behind these guys, they deserve it. As a matter of fact, I plan on attending a couple of games to show my support. Y’all better jump on the bandwagon while there’s still room. GO HAWKS!!!
oldmike
March 26th, 2012
8:28 am
I know this team will put up the usual stinker soon but they sure look different. I am bgeginning to think they could make a serious run. They play wirth energy and resolve most of the time and are SO much better with JJ at the 3.
Phil Lunney
March 26th, 2012
8:33 am
How many times last night did you think the Hawks were done? At the end of regulation and in each of the first 3 OT’s, it looked like they were going to let Utah escape. Great heart from everyone from Zaza, number “0″ and all those metioned above. I hope Al gets to return this season to this group of guys. Keep it up guys.
Trojan
March 26th, 2012
9:13 am
Games like that will win over many fans.
Go Hawks.
Kojak
March 26th, 2012
9:32 am
Trade Josh NOW while his stock is up. What a boneheaded player. Jacking up jumpshots and he obviously has not worked on his low post game. what a dumb a$$ player. Cannot remeber when I saw a dumber player.
Eric
March 26th, 2012
9:45 am
When the Hawks are playing good ball nobody in Atlanta wants to talk about them, but let the Hawks go on a losing streak and they make the front page of the newspaper. Atlanta is just a bad sports city we got three teams here that are perennial winners, if any other city had the teams we had they would be happy. Joe might no be Kobe or Lebron but he’s definitely a star, he proves it every night taking double teams scoring 30 and sinking last second shoots like he did once again last night.
hawkville
March 26th, 2012
10:02 am
Joe will go back to SG when/if Al come back this year. Zaza will remain at C, why would u take him out with the way he’s playing… To keep Kirk at SG, seriously
alex
March 26th, 2012
10:16 am
Enter your comments here
STRETCH
March 26th, 2012
10:36 am
ESPN is at it once again!
The Hawks and Jazz probably played the game of the year last night and ESPN, ESPN 2 (with Skip Bayless and the “2 Live Stewed Beefs”) and Mike N Mike in the Morning are all talking about:
1. Tiger Woods
2. Kentucky vs Louisville
and…..
3. Teebow!
Mike
March 26th, 2012
10:37 am
Zaza isn’t a starter in this league he’s a solid backup, if you watched the game last night he has trouble defensively. Al Jefferson isn’t even one of the bigger centers in the NBA and he totally out muscled Zaza, plus you got to have some scoring punch off the bench. The reason Drew went to this line-up is because he has too many guards that need to be on the floor. Pargo backs Teague, Green backs Kirk, Marvin or Tracy backs Joe, Ivan backs Josh, Zaza backs Horford.
heartofdarkness
March 26th, 2012
10:42 am
Dr. Jekyll was in the house on Sunday. Judging from the +/- stats, the Hawks bench played really well offensively. Derrick Favors line is mystifying, however. Tremendous offensive efficiency in only 18+ minutes and he has the worst +/- in the game. Looks like he’s playing to get out of Utah.
Dr. Warren
March 26th, 2012
10:46 am
Hate to spoil the party, but doesn’t this happen every year? Explain how this group will advance farther than the second round.
alex
March 26th, 2012
11:01 am
this not about guys on this blog, they are proud ed Atlanta pro sports this is about vast majority rest, hey wake up, civil war is over, hawks playing all seasons butts off and you not paying attention, somewhere in remote Siberian villages cared more about your teams than you are. OK continue to be national laughingstock. couple more month and your beloved dawgs criminals come to play (sorry a lot of them be suspended for different infringements) and you be happy again. agree hillbilly f… this hawks, braves and falcons. don’t worry about the rest sport world which compared you with ancient arrogant people.
1 4 GT
March 26th, 2012
1:12 pm
I hate the dumb popup at the bottom of the page. I assume it is on all the blogs. I have decided to just ignore it since the advertisers base their decisions on it’s $ value to them, indicating how many readers the blog has. I’ll bet you that clicking on the down button also registers as a “HIT”, so if WE will ignore it, it will lose it’s appeal to the advertisers using this offensive way of pestering folks and maybe they will let it expire. The popup advertisements are just as obnoxious as telemarketers calling at all hours. Shuck ‘em all!!!!
ag
March 26th, 2012
1:12 pm
I was at work and had to tape the game. My DVR stopped recording during the 3rd OT and the Hawks were down by four. I was very disappointed, and thought they lost. When I got on the internet WOW – GREAT WIN!!! I am happy for the team and I think overall this team has to rank next to some of the best Atlanta Hawk teams. Would love to see an article to see what others think..
hawkville
March 26th, 2012
1:58 pm
Really, I’m the type who gives credit where credit is do. Jefferson had a good game last, just like Zaza had a good game (20 rebound + clucth free throws) what more do u want from a STARTING center. Millsap had a good game, should Josh move to being a solid backup. Just saying
ag
March 26th, 2012
2:03 pm
The two Atlanta teams with a .695 winning percentage are the 1986-87 Hawks and 1993-94 Hawks. This team is only playing .600. Without pulling all the team stats, player vs. player
57-25, coach Mike Fratello – edge Fratello
Forwards – Dominique Wilkins and Kevin Willis In his third season, Willis averaged 16.1 pts and 10.5 rebounds. Yet because of his short arms, he was not much of a shot blocker. Willis only took 4 treys, and he actually made one of them. Yet, Josh is averaging 18.2 and 9.7 – and having a career year. He almost averages 2 blocks per game – advantage Smooth
Dominique Wilkins vs. Joe Johnson: If LD would have continued with Marvin Williams starting, no reason to debate. Wilkins averaged 29 ppg with 6.3 trb 3.3 ast and 1.5 steals. Joe 19.3 ppg, 3.7 trbs, 3.8 ast and .9 steals. A closer look will show that Johnson is turning into the team leader although allowing other teammates to get involved. – Advantage Wilkins
John Koncak/Tree Rollins vs. Al Hortford/ZaZa Pachulia: Koncak and Rollins shared the center position. Rollins much more defensive minded leading the team with 1.9 blocks. Yet, he was an average rebounder at 6 trb. Koncak did have a good run at the end of the season, but neither player averaged more than three baskets per game. ZaZa lacks athleticism and certainly making the Woody Harrelson/Wesley Snipes 1992 basketball movie stereotype become reality. Horford is an all-star, and has averaged almost a double-double every season. – advantage Horford/Pachulia
Randy Wittman vs. Kirk Hinrich: Hinrich numbers look pretty paltry, averaging only 7.3 ppg along with 2.2 trb. Yet, as a starter over the last 10 games Hinrich averaged 11.2 ppg. Wittman, (for you younger Hawk fans you saw him coaching the Wizzards) was the third option for those Hawks. He was a great long range shooter and he was relied on to stretch the defense. Yet, Hinrich is a much better defender and can dribble a basketball – advantage Hinrich
Doc Rivers vs. Jeff Teague: Yet another former Hawk who is a coach – and Doc was pretty good. He averaged 12.8 pts, 10.0 ast. Rivers also had something Teague does not have yet- a clutch gene. You could depend on Doc to hit the big shot to win a game (despite shooting .19% for 3 point land). Teague has the speed of Doc’s replacement Spud Webb and the athleticism. Yet, Doc was the glue. – advantage Rivers
Bench. Battle, Levingston, Webb and Carr could each start – and did at some points of the season. Pargo, Green, Johnson… much better upgrade than the past. –advantage 86-87 Hawks.
Heisenberg
March 26th, 2012
2:17 pm
Mike @10:37, granted nobody will confuse Zaza’s defensive ability with that of Dwight Howard, but Horford would not haved fared much better against someone the size of Jefferson. These extra large guys are why Collins is on the team and I would have expected more of him (and maybe Dampier) in this matchup.
Hawks are sometimes frustrating with their occasional flops against teams they should dominate, but nobody can say they (or Utah) have no heart after last night. It was worth delaying bedtime for.
ThreeDawgKnight
March 26th, 2012
2:24 pm
I believe Zaza has elevated his game as well.
*[just not his vertical]
Mr Mojo
March 26th, 2012
2:48 pm
One thing is for sure this team has showed some mental toughness this year that is did not in past years. Last year they would of never won that game last night. It is amazing we can still get the 3rd seed even with Horford out almost the whole year and all the other injuries we have had this year. Hawks will be a tough out in the playoffs for anyone.
nba might as well be soccer.....zzzzzzzzz
March 26th, 2012
3:40 pm
Jeff, can never get too excited about Hawks after best years with Hubie and Fratello….There is no charisma, or whatever term floats your boat, to any teams since.
I know I’m not the only one that doesn’t care to see a bunch of overpaid, tattoo freaks consistently lose in the 1st or 2nd round of the playoffs each year.
Older Hawks teams did the same, but with more lovable players and coaches.
Basketball, like hockey, takes no amazing feat to make playoffs. Half the league gets in, and you have to be embarrasingly pitiful to not make the playoffs. And I won’t even start on the ridiculously long regular seasons.
NBA might as well be soccer.....zzzzzzzzz
March 26th, 2012
3:45 pm
Jeff, the Hawks have not been entertaining since Hubie and Fratello were coaching them.
A bunch of overpaid, boring, tattoo freaks that consistently get eliminated in the 1st or 2nd rounds of playoffs today.
At least the older teams that did the same had more lovable players and coaches.
No charisma to any team since.
I will never pay for anything nba
March 26th, 2012
3:52 pm
It is not a big accomplishment to make playoffs in basketball or hockey. Half the teams in league get in. You would have to be embarrassingly pitiful to not make playoffs.
Totally boring and long regular seasons, too. Shorten playoff rounds. Starting in April and ending in June is insane.
Joe Bling
March 26th, 2012
4:18 pm
Asinine comments at 3:45 and 3:52. If you aren’t a fan, why are you wasting your and my time posting on this board. Go somewhere else.
And to the poster on the first page who described the Hawks as “mediocre”, can you please explain? Do you understand the definition of the word “mediocre”? Just what about this Hawks team has been mediocre the last five years? Are they mediocre in comparison to, say, the Braves? The Falcons? The Thrashers?
Are they mediocre in comparison to 85 percent of the other teams in the NBA?
NO! And that, by definition, means they are NOT MEDIOCRE! You people better learn to appreciate what you’ve got, because it can be gone in a flash (i.e., the Thrashers). Wake up and realize that you have one of the top teams in the NBA right now in your own town. Often, the last push a team needs is to get the fan base behind them. I guarantee you if Philips Arena were full-up every night this team would have an extra edge that could make them special. If you don’t think this team can beat Orlando, you haven’t been paying attention. That hurdle was cleared last year. If you don’t think this team can beat Miami, you might be right. But again, if you have been paying attention, you will see that the Hawks match up well with Miami. This team is gunning for the playoffs, I’m telling you. They set their sights on making the Finals this year and proving the doubters (Charles Barkley, et. al.) wrong. Why do you think LD made them listen to the broadcast of that TNT game? He wanted them to hear how little respect they get on the national stage. He wanted it to hurt, and he wanted it to make them mad. Since that game this team has been much tougher. Since Zaza and Josh have started playing like men on a mission, this team has been so much tougher. They are playing super hard right now because they know they have to improve their standing to get home-court advantage. Home court is critical, which is what they learned against the Celtics, and later Orlando, a few years ago.
No way they can get home court over the Bulls or Miami, but if they can get into a series with one of those teams, anything can happen.
Good article about Joe. He has looked like a new player the last two or three weeks. He’s clearly feeling healthy. I will note, however, that he had a really good look to end last night’s game in regulation and missed the shot. He couldn’t decide whether to bank it or put it straight in and instead got the back iron. Huge three in overtime, though. That was a tremendous shot, and further credit to the toughness of this team that they were able to play four overtimes without Josh and come away with the win.
ag
March 26th, 2012
4:20 pm
Go watch soccer ‘NBA might as well be soccer..zzzzzzzzzzzzzz”! Josh Smith makes the Highlight factory. Man, that dunk Jeff Teague over Ray Allen!!! What about those money treys by Joe!!!! I am loving this team!!!!!
Senator Blutarski
March 26th, 2012
4:22 pm
–one thing that’s so amazing now is that–especially when the Hawks are healthy–I know in my gut and heart that the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls could actually be beaten in playoff games by our Atlanta Hawks. Get a bit of momentum going at playoff time and it is actually a possibility that something good could happen–
play ball!
March 26th, 2012
4:38 pm
thank goodness baseball is here to fill in time before football.
back to the fry machine joe bling
March 26th, 2012
4:41 pm
joe got no bling or a brain with those comments above
Joe Bling
March 26th, 2012
5:17 pm
Still here, I see. You really ought to go somewhere else where there aren’t any “tattoo freaks” and where it’s much harder to get into the playoffs, like it was back in the day of Hubie and Fratello. Moron.
Wink
March 26th, 2012
8:42 pm
I appreciate the play of JJ lately. However, lets get real here, Joe is in his element, playing off Josh and not having the ball in his hand as much. When Josh rebounds he brings the ball up and Josh run out in transition, Josh being as aggressive draws the defense and Joe is getting a lot of catch & shoot opportunities. Just like when Josh is stationed around the 3 point line he is less effective, so is Joe when he dominates the basketball.
Also, having him play small forward, places him closer to the basket; having Hinrich and Teague as ball handlers also reduces his need to pound the rock. As a result, Teague goes to the basket as the only slasher in the starting lineup and Hinrich now in rhythm is able to strecth the floor at the corner 3 point line, has also allowed Joe room to operate on the box or become more of a catch & shoot player…ie his Phoenix days.
Lastly, with Josh basically now the go to guy, and less Iso Joe, they both are playing at a high level over the last 12 – 13 games. What is missing in all this Joe’s on fire crap is the fact he went cold in the middle of the game 2nd & 3rd quarter. The Hawks were up 15 at the half and midway the 3rd quarter they were down and in catch up mode.
Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful we have been winning, but these guys are prone to disappear in games and still finish with good stat lines. If I hear Nique say a rookie can’t guard Joe one more time, when I know Marshon Brooks of NJ has lit him up. Joe is a good player who enjoys being the 2nd option, kinda like how Marvin plays better off the bench, not so much as a starter. Everything wrong with this team is between the ears and their fragile makeups.
Peace Out Hawk Nation
RA
March 26th, 2012
8:55 pm
Peace out wink.
phil
March 26th, 2012
9:46 pm
Dr. Warren
March 26th, 2012
10:46 am
Hate to spoil the party, but doesn’t this happen every year? Explain how this group will advance farther than the second round.
******
they won’t. No ridiculous overreaction excitement here!
kreedham
March 26th, 2012
10:20 pm
If they can just get home court for at least the 1st round….if they can clinch it with a game or two to go then Drew needs to rest some guys. At least they give us some hope!
Tennis Rodman
March 27th, 2012
6:29 am
ASG = TRASH
Tennis Rodman
March 27th, 2012
6:31 am
Here is the question then: do the hawks get bounced in the 1st or 2nd round of the playoffs?
JJ
March 27th, 2012
7:14 am
I care far less about Joe’s paycheck and far more about his production on the court. Yeah he’s overpaid. Nothing’s going to change that. I’d rather he be overpaid and productive than overpaid and unproductive.
tjhook
March 27th, 2012
8:40 am
Keep Hinrich at SG; it does improve Joe and jeff’s oncourt performance
Athens Tider
March 27th, 2012
11:53 am
Someone please explain playoff seeding. How is Orlando ahead of Philadelphia and the Hawks are not? I can understand if division winners get the top three spots, but Orlando is not a division leader and they’re currently seeded third. Please help.
bulldogbubba
March 27th, 2012
8:39 pm
Clusters?
NATIVE SON
March 31st, 2012
9:55 am
I see a lot of entries hoping for the return of Al Horford. I think Al needs to take one for the team, and sit out the rest of the season. Nothing against Al, but too many times I have seen a player come back from injury, just to disrupt the chemistry. Case in point; Chris Owens was balling out for the Falcons, but they decided to start Brent Grimes against the Saints. Bad move, and it seldom works out. If Mr. Horford is able to play some minutes. then let him spell ZaZA, or anchor the second unit with Marvin. I for one, will be decidely disappointed if he is immediately placed in the starting lineup.
An aside here, but arguably; Joe, and Josh look like the most improved players in the league, and L.D. should get a smattering of attention as COY.
Peace from the MOST NATIVE
BigMoney
April 6th, 2012
10:09 am
This team is really one of the top 3 or 4 teams in the east when they are healthy. They did beat miami early this season when they were healthy. and we were up by 20 against chicago and let that one go. Hopefully T-mac, radmonavich, zaza, pargo and all of the rest are healthy.. and people keep forgetting hawks are playing without al horford.. and what a great addition Ivan johnson has been..