Game 5: The Hawks prove they’re too good for these guys
The wonder isn’t that the Hawks have again taken a series lead. The wonder is that they were ever behind. They’re so much better than the Heat it isn’t funny. And they won’t be laughing if Sunday arrives and they’re back here trying to close this out in a Game 7. This one should end Friday night in Miami.
We know the Hawks can play. What we need is for them to prove they can finish, that they can actually win a best-of-seven series, that they can dispose of a demonstrably lesser opponent and commence with the serious business of chasing LeBron.
The Hawks showed their steel in a first half Wednesday of hard fouls and key injuries, and when intermission arrived they led by 23 points. (They would win by 15.) Said Flip Murray, who scored 23 points and steered the Hawks through the choppy second half: “The game got physical, but I liked the way we kept our composure.”
A year ago in Boston, the Hawks couldn’t do that. Four times the Celtics hit them in the collective mouth, and four times the Hawks buckled. This time they’ve already proved they can win on the road — Game 4 was a huge advance for this team’s psyche — and now they need to do it again.
Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.It won’t be easy. Al Horford sprained his ankle in the second quarter — “As long as it comes around, I should be fine for Friday,” he said afterward — and Marvin Williams didn’t play at all. And Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, grasping at straws, made it a point to say: “The game became a highlight reel [at the end], and they really tried to embarrass us.”
He was speaking of one play late in the game: Free on a runout, Josh Smith sought to whip the ball between his legs before dunking. (He missed the dunk, by the way.) But a team that has trailed all night and is down by 20 with 4:16 left should worry more about how badly it had been outplayed. And to his credit, Spoelstra said this: “They kicked our butts in every was possible … They pounded us in every shape and form.”
The great Dwyane Wade made one first-half basket. The Hawks made 13 of their 16 shots in the second quarter. This was the fifth no-doubt game of the series, which is pretty weird in itself, but it’s time now for the Hawks to forget the highlight stuff and to get down and D up and grind one out on the road. That’s the way the good teams do it, and this team has the capacity to be very, very good.
No Hawks team since 1970 has won a best-of-seven series. This team can and should. Forget the Heat’s trumped-up ire — “Yes, we were very insulted,” Wade said, speaking of Smith’s abortive around-the-worlder — and the fan blackout that awaits in Miami in Game 6. Forget everything except the mission at hand, which is getting to Round 2.
“That’s a game we have to have,” Murray said, and it’s a game these Hawks can get if they control themselves and stick to business. It’s time to put this outclassed opponent to sleep. It’s time to say hello to LeBron.
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135 comments Add your comment
Jeff
April 30th, 2009
12:41 am
Great points, MB…. Atlanta has had so many “almost” moments in its NBA history, I hope this can be a “look back on with pride moment.” To be one of the last 8 teams in the league still standing – after what this team went through not too long ago with some 20, 25 win seasons – would be a great accomplishment. As for Smith’s failed windmill… that’s just Josh showing he still has some immaturity. He needs to take the layup or the simple two-handed flush… don’t try to be MJ. And as for Miami being upset about it…. TOUGH CRAP! My god, EVERY NBA game is a freakin’ highlight reel if it’s more than 15 points in the final minutes! What about some of the highlight reel junk that LeBron, Kobe and even D-Wade have done in recent years? Miami’s film guy, er, head coach, Erik Spoelstra, needs to worry less about how to stop Josh Smith’s fancy dunks and more about how to keep Atlanta from building 20 point leads. Good luck Hawks, you’ve given yourselves a shot, now FINISH THE DEAL!!!
i hate cold prey.....its better to HEAT My(aimi) prey
April 30th, 2009
12:42 am
Dwayne wade is a crybaby! The hawks beat that heat @$$
GO HAWKS! MAKE HISTORY
i hate cold prey.....its better to HEAT My(aimi) prey
April 30th, 2009
12:45 am
jeff i dont agree with it! If josh smith would have completed his dunk it would have been all the more momentum we need!!!!
The hawks need what ever they can get and if the physical game isnt working they need to up their phycological game
westcoastatlfan
April 30th, 2009
12:51 am
I grew up in ATL and was at that game 6 series defining moment where the whole Omni crowd was in a frenzy feeling they finally could get over the top against the mighty Celtics. Of course, we all know what happened – typical ATL letdown.
Let’s see if this team can indeed close the deal. I agree the Heat are DWade plus a supporting cast and if he isn’t healthy, the Hawks should have the guts and the attitude to close this out.
Cmon Josh Smith – you still don’t get it, do you? This is the freakin playoffs and you still think you are at a slam dunk contest. Act like a professional and compete with your teammates and actually close this series out….
ken
April 30th, 2009
1:03 am
yall trippin, it wouldve been a different thing if lebron tried the dunk.
The Truth
April 30th, 2009
1:14 am
Great piece Mark. I totally agree with the points about the Hawks as the better team. I can’t believe TNT Barkley, Kenny and even Wade making such a big deal about that one attempted dunk by Josh. He was just trying to give the fans something special. If the shoe had been on the other foot, you better believe Wade would have done likewise or something equivalent. It would not have been a bone-headed play if Wade had done it. What I am pissed about from the TNT so called analysts, is that they did not give the Hawks any credit for the win. They devoted all their air time and attention to that one single play. If you want to know the real HAWKS HATERS, ITS KENNY AND BARKLEY ON TNT. These guys flat-out hate the Hawks, no bones about it. If Miami had won the game, it would have been high-light reel after high-light reel talking about the great D Wade. In fact even though Miami lost, there were more D Wade high-lights than Hawks high-lights. Mark you should take note and write about it.
Reid Adair
April 30th, 2009
1:22 am
It is ridiculous that Erik Spoelstra, Dwyane Wade and the blowhards on TNT are whining about Josh Smith’s dunk attempt. Throw in @ajcsportseditor for saying that Smith should be “embarrassed.”
Najeh Davenpoop
April 30th, 2009
1:34 am
If the Heat don’t want Josh Smith attempting fancy breakaway dunks in garbage time, they should play better, prevent garbage time from occurring, and take care of the ball better so the Hawks don’t get breakaway dunk opportunities. LeBron James does this all the time and he gets nothing but praise. I was at the game so I don’t know what Kenny and Charles said, but if they are hating on Josh for that they better be hating on LeBron when he does that too.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
1:36 am
It’s odd, huh? The NBA tries to play up its stars and its sensational plays — check out SportsCenter and see what percentage of basketball highlights are dunks — but Smith tries a windmill and gets ripped.
Where do you think it would have been on ESPN’s “top plays” had he made the thing? I say No. 1.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
1:37 am
Oh, and thanks to you, Mr. Truth.
wxwax
April 30th, 2009
1:39 am
In a single move, Josh Smith showed the world what Woody’s been dealing with.
In a playoff game – a playoff game! – when all you want to do is nail the coffin shut, this immature kid decides to showboat and misses the dunk. He’s a gifted and profoundly stupid young man. No wonder Woody’s had to sit him down.
Will Josh Smith ever mature and realize his full potential? Or will he always be a knucklehead who never quite figures it all out?
My sympathy to Coach Woodson. I had no idea what he was dealing with.
wxwax
April 30th, 2009
1:41 am
He didn’t try a windmill. He tried a dopey through-his-legs thing.
More importantly, you don’t take things for granted. You put the other team away. Business first. *Especially* in the playoffs.
I couldn’t believe it. And neither could the commentators. I hope Smith is shamed into, at least temporarily, getting his priorities straight.
doc
April 30th, 2009
1:52 am
JOSH = MVP
get over it; 20/8/4/2/2 and zip to’s
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
1:54 am
Doc, you’re ahead of me. I was just looking for Josh’s numbers in Game 5. Pretty awful performance, huh?
uga_b
April 30th, 2009
2:32 am
My question is that if Lebron had done a fancy dunk would he have gotten the bad rap? I have seen him pull that off on a breakaway. The NBA commentators need to realize the NBA become more about sizzle, flash and entertainment years ago. Watch a dang All-Star game. Nobody wants to watch a bunch of corn-fed white boys from Indiana do 2 handed chest and bounce passes and shoot open shots. Get with the times. Hop on the trolley.
uga_b
April 30th, 2009
2:34 am
Dang, i didn’t read Najeh’s post first. Good Lookin’ out. Just watch the playoff commercials of fantastical moves…how many are 1 in 1 free throw shots…none.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
2:39 am
I knew what was coming the second Josh got the ball, and I thought it was kind of funny he missed — I always think missed dunks are funny — but objectionable? No. What was he supposed to do — lay it up? Pull it back out and run the Four Corners?
Dr. Warren
April 30th, 2009
3:02 am
Let’s not ignore the pattern. Every time the Hawks look superior, and a cinch to win the next game, they don’t. That is their identity–a frequently good team that loses focus and intensity at potentially transcendent (for the franchise) moments. They’ll lose in Miami, Horford or not. But they’ll probably win game 7. If it sounds like I’m contradicting myself, I’m not. They’ll win because it’s at home.
By the way, Mark, nice historical reference on the 7-game series futility.
NCBravesFan
April 30th, 2009
6:28 am
Mark – thanks for the great coverage in-game (and from Acworth, no less!). Dr Warren – I agree that these Hawks can be really frustrating. They come out in one game and look like no-one could ever beat them (Game 1), and then they fall flat and lose their way (Games 2/3).
But as we all know, LeBron and the crew do not suffer fools, and the Hawks need to close this Heat thing down in a hurry and focus on what’s coming.
If they can shake past patterns & advance, I hope at a minimum the Hawks can make the Cavs series at least mildly entertaining.
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
6:32 am
In a playoff game – a playoff game! – when all you want to do is nail the coffin shut, this immature kid!
STOP RIGHT THERE. How many “KIDS” are?
When Cleveland’s starters were doing the photo-op thing, was that mature? How bout Wade crying like a baby? How bout Kobe snitching on Shaq? How bout Barkley spitting on fans? How bout K. Smith pouting after the Hawks rejected him? You like apples?????? How bout them apples? Now leave the HOMEGROWN ALONE. From the most Indiginous one. Peace
hawks hawk
April 30th, 2009
6:58 am
Well i’ll take one missed highlight dunk, when we up by 15 or more with 3 minutes in the 4th quarter. Now if we down or if this was the 2nd or 3rd quarter, i could see someone getting upset. Smoove played a pretty good game, did everythang like he’s done the whole series. Let MIA be upset, but Hawk fans WOW! Smoove do you, guess it was crazy when he tried to dunk on J Oneal and M Beasley, that was silly also(lol ar tall clowns), should’ve just pulled up for a jumpshot! Go hawks, great game!
Cuz
April 30th, 2009
7:20 am
Maybe the Hawks need a new catch phrase. “Fire Woodson” does not seem to be working. Get someone to call Mark Richt and find out if “Finish the Drill” is copyrighted.
That was a dunk? I thought Josh was trying to pass the ball around his back to the fan with the ugly Braves hat under the basket. The fan then makes the shot and gets one of those checks so large they won’t fit in a VW. I think the retro Braves hat threw Josh off and ruined the photo-op.
jason
April 30th, 2009
7:23 am
Not saying if its right or not, but I get where Smith was coming from. Smith gets alot of what I would call pure B.S. calls against him or flat out missed calls. People forget Smith is still a kid, or a young man. His emotions tend to get the best of him at times. Emotions are a great tool to have if you can control, and channel them through your play. I saw a Miami team come to ATL to play physical. ATL flat out whipped them. ATL can play really physical when they want to. I knew after game 1 the Heat couldn’t stay on the floor with the Hawks. They proved once again in game 5. How far could the Hawks go if they could consistently play at that level night after night.
I read somewhere the questioning of JJ being ATL’s superstar. Their LeBron, Kobe, Wade, etc. ATl doesn’t need JJ to be. They need JJ and Bibby to be leaders. ATL has at least 6 to seven guys who can score when needed. Last big props to Flip,Mo, and Mario, and Pachulia, for an excellent game off the bench. If the Hawks were more mature, this series should have been swept, or at least over in 5. Sometimes people just don’t get how young the Hawks are.
lawton
April 30th, 2009
7:26 am
the missed dunk i ATTEMPT sums up smith’s problems and the hawks are not a good team because they have NO halfcourt offense. who cares if they beat the heat, they gonna get thumped by cleveland. 40 years, 40 years and the hawks are STILL rebuilding in atlanta, lol.
Birdy
April 30th, 2009
7:30 am
Regarding Smith’s dunk attempt: The Heat’s coach is just grasping for ways to motivate his squad. Smith was focused all night long, making great passes and aggressively gettingt to the hoop and making his free throws.
Smith displayed playoff-type leadership, IMO, all night long — even in the failed dunk attempt. Yes, even in that play because he was just giving the fans something to enjoy and something for the league to market. This is entertainment, afterall.
Well done, Josh. You played a heckuva game when we needed it most.
Randy Whitman
April 30th, 2009
7:37 am
How about D. Wade being protected – literally – by the officials. Oh, the irony.
jg
April 30th, 2009
7:39 am
i knew the heat and their coaches would play that “missed dunk” into some kind of motivating speech for the rest of the series. but that’s just reaching for something–this is what coaches do in desperate times–he’s basically challenging his team’s manhood. i don’t think it will make much of a difference if the hawks keep playing this style of ball.
the thing about this game that bothered me was the flagrant foul on mo evans by d. wade. i thought that should have resulted in an ejection. i hear all the crap about how wade blocks a lot of shots this way–whatever–do you guys remember the play josh made against harping in the regular season–josh blocks more shots than wade and he barely missed the block on harping and they ejected him. i know if the shoe was on the other foot and josh made that same play on wade that wade knocked evans down–josh would’ve been thrown out and suspended for the next game.
as for the “hard” foul by solo on wade–that’s ridiculous! wade led with his elbow right into jones’ chin—i thought solo was just trying to get out of his way–then wade pulled solo to get things going!
oh well! hawks won it anyway and if they could go ahead and finish this off in miami on friday that would be just wonderful. i keep thinking i don’t want to see a game 7 in this series just because of the pressure will be on us–but that’s what we played the entire year for right????
go hawks
chattanooga
that's a long time
April 30th, 2009
7:45 am
Haven’t won a seven-game playoff series since 1970? Really? I don’t doubt you Mark, I remember losing a couple of tight seven-gamers –but the thought is we must have won a seven-gamer sometime in the 80’s ..must have been best-of-fives I’m thinking about.
Mac
April 30th, 2009
7:46 am
The photo above tells it all, you can see the disgust on Spoelestra’s face. Whatever. Hope the Hawks kick ‘em just as hard in Miami. Make a statement about who the superior team is.
The Truth
April 30th, 2009
7:48 am
lawton
Who cares about your comment; I know Miami has a Blog that would fit you nicely. Misery and whiners love company.
a long time --and accurate
April 30th, 2009
7:53 am
Just researched. Did win a few best of fives, but despite some solid 50+ win teams in the 80’s as well as a couple in the 90’s, did not pull off a seven game series victory.
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
7:54 am
In the end, only one team wins. And it won’t be Cleveland. Not to be overly optimistic, but I think at full strength the Hawks would have a great shot at beating cleveland. Wade; James, same M_O, but keep Mo’ Williams off the peremiter. The Hawks are inconsistent, but all you have to be is consistent 4 times. Ask the Celtics!! And if we take one(not steal)in Ohio…………Well, it COULD happen.
ndadome
April 30th, 2009
8:02 am
What ticks me off is that I’m probably the only one reading this that understands your “Four Corners” reference. I agree with you, Mr. Bradley, response would have been totally different if he had made it. I believe they still got two points in spite of the miss. But I thought Coach Woodson was going to run out and strangle Josh.
J
April 30th, 2009
8:19 am
While it wasn’t the best thing to do at that point, I agree it would have fired up the crowd … I think that’s where you get the biased opinions from the “TNT Analysts” … can’t believe anybody would go that hard on J-Smmove … if you’re a true fan, you understand why he tried to do it
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
8:26 am
Maybe he’s going back to get his dunk title
Daniel
April 30th, 2009
8:38 am
Mark- several others have already stated it, but I totally agree that an article on the way the TNT crew is so negative on the Hawks is warranted. I mean TNT is in Atlanta for goodness sake. I don’t expect them to be our cheerleaders, but it is ridiculous the lengths that they go to be negative about the Hawks.
Also, I have a lot bigger issue with Josh when he takes that 20 foot jump shot early in the clock without moving the ball, than him trying a highlight dunk. I hate it that he missed it. To the victors goes the spoils.
Miami and DWade are a bunch of chumps.
Daniel
April 30th, 2009
8:39 am
ndadone- everybody gets the four corners reference
ndadome
April 30th, 2009
8:45 am
Sorry, Daniel. .didn’t see the 900 pound gorilla in the room.
Atllovesthesteelers
April 30th, 2009
8:45 am
This failed dunk attempt has recieved too much attention. Was this show boating? Yes. Was this a sigh of immaturity? Maybe. I find this hard to believe that no one is talking about D Wade’s missed wide open dunk, or the fact that the Miami Heat can only win a game if thier three ball game is on. The Hawks have won back to back games because they finally figured out that you have to defend. I liked the physicallity of yesterday’s game, and kudos to the players for not losing thier composure on the aggressive foul of D Wade. This was like watching old school playoff basketball. The Hawks have a chance to prove something if they can close the Heat out on thier own floor, which they should do.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
8:46 am
Thanks, Dr. Warren. Thanks, NC. Sorry to have unveiled an antique, NBD.
And Long Time, ‘Nique’s teams won three best-of-fives in the ’80s, and Hubie’s team won a best-of-three in 1979, and Lenny’s teams won four best-of-fives in the ’90s. But that’s it as far as playoff series wins go since 1970.
oldmike
April 30th, 2009
8:47 am
For the record Dr. Warren the Hawks just put two thumpings on the Heat back to back. Tell DWade to shut up and stop whining too.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
8:53 am
Seems to me the Hawks-Celtics series got interesting a year ago only after Paul Pierce got so frustrated he made, in the NBA’s parlance, a “menacing gesture.”
The big-timers don’t like losing. Maybe that’s what makes them big-time. But it is interesting how these little Hawks keep getting under big-timers’ skins. And good for them (the Hawks), I say.
Atllovesthesteelers
April 30th, 2009
8:59 am
Have to admit that look on Woody’s face after Josh’s failed dunk attempt was hilarious. We take the good (Spectacular Dunks/Blocks), with the bad (Ill-advised 3’s, and attempting to play point guard). But the look on Woody’s face was like “Son what are you doing?” I am all for alittle show boating just make the dunk next time Josh. For the whiny Heat fans and D Wade if you didnt like the dunk attempt, next time play some D.
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
9:04 am
you guys are pathetic when you were down in the series you thought it was the end of the world and now you are world beaters? give me a break we are going to kick your a–es when you come to MIAMI . your franchise will always be second class. and your team has no basketball smarts.
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
9:08 am
by the way do you actually think you guys shut down d-wade when he is hurt shows you how much you know about basketball. we will see you in miami.dont cry after you lose!
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:08 am
I couldn’t see the look on Woodson’s face. When your seat is in Acworth (meaning: mezzanine), all you get is Woody’s back.
Atllovesthesteelers
April 30th, 2009
9:12 am
That look should have been on today’s article. You missed a treat MB.
Westurd
April 30th, 2009
9:17 am
“heatforlife” the only one crying in Atlanta at the moment is your golden boy DWade. Everygame of the series DWade goes through about three boxes of tissues.
GREAT GAME LAST NIGHT….GO HAWKS!
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
9:18 am
It’s the same one for 5 years. LOL
Astro Joe
April 30th, 2009
9:20 am
Regardless of Smith’s intent (and I truly believe he was trying to entertain the fans and not disrespect the Heat nor “the game”) I think there is a 99.8% chance that a Heat player will try to under-cut him Friday night or try a good ole fashion Gordon Solie announced clothesline. With 2 starters potentially missing, the last thing we need is for Magloire to channel Maurice Lucas and put one of our key players in the hospital.
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
9:20 am
he is waaaaay better than anything you have and you know it.
Optimistic Falcon Fan
April 30th, 2009
9:22 am
Just hope the officials in Miami aren’t already plotting against us. I think they are the ones that console and bring DWade the tissue! I agree too, if it were Lebron or Dwade takign that break away dunk< it would be praised and called an exclamation point!
hawks hawk
April 30th, 2009
9:22 am
O lawd, heartforlife. this is basketball, everybody plays hurt, just SOME STARS WHINE MORE about their injuries, so they can have an excuse when they dont play well or their team loses. So Sorry wade is hurting, must not be too bad, if he can still score 29. O well though, thanx for your comment not needed but thanx!
Randy
April 30th, 2009
9:23 am
Dear Miami Heat,
If you don’t quit and allow the other team to have 3 or 4 breakaways in the span of 2 minutes, you won’t have to watch a player trying to show out for his own fans. He’s was trying to embarrass you? He was even sure you were still in the arena!
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:23 am
I did look at Woodson immediately afterward, Steelers. But all I got was the rear view.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:25 am
And I concur with Randy: Right after Josh’s whiff, Joe Johnson had a breakaway dunk. (Which he made without fuss.)
Again, I think Spoelstra and Wade were fanning the fire for Game 6, as opposed to being genuinely angered. But I’d agree with Astro-Joe: Smoove needs to watch out Friday.
hawks hawk
April 30th, 2009
9:26 am
I agree wade is better talent out on the floor most nights, but too bad NBA basketball aint a game of 21, so he still needs a team, regardless how good he is. So once again, thanx for your comment but not needed or valid this time!
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Optimistic Falcon Fan
April 30th, 2009
9:28 am
Mark,honestly, would do you think? Do you think we win this series or do you think we keep the rut of losing when it counts that it seems like Atlanta sports are stuck in? I am ready for the ATL to step it up, we have so much talent in all of our sports teams, but no hardware to support it!
Barry
April 30th, 2009
9:28 am
He Y’all:
Let’s Go Hawks! Let’s Go Hawks! Let’s “SHOCK THE WORLD!!”
What a game last night. The fans were really jumping and screaming on every play. Our Hawks were sticking the dagger in the Heat with consistancy. The Heat was whining and crying ffrom the pain they were receiving from our Hawks with that great defensive intensity they play every game. They even resorted to rough, street ball tactics to hurt some of our stars. Now that is a sign of desperation and we will take it. For it shows that the Heat knows they are overmatched. Joe Jophnson, Flip Murray, Mike Bibby, Josh Smith, Al Horford, Mo Evans and the rest of the crew were not taking any stuff from these Heat. They know these Heat got a “false sense of security” with the win they got in Miami. “Now the Hawks know” that they got the Heats heart and are going to play their ass off in Miami to close the deal. These birds are not playing. They are throwing knockout punches against the Heat. And guess what? THEY HAVEN’T EVEN DONE THE SHUFFLE YET!!!!!!!!
LET’S GO HAWKS!!! LET’S GO HAWKS!!!! LET’S GO HAWKS!!!
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a SECRET from a HAWK FAN. TELL EVERBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!
……………………”ATLANTA HAWKS, BOOM-BYE-YEAH!!!”………..
…………………………”SHOCK THE WORLD”………………….
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:31 am
I think they win in six, Optimistic. I’ve thought that from the start.
And Barry, I don’t know that they’d be shocking the world if they won Round 1. As David Stern himself noted last night, “They’re the fourth seed. They’re in the upper half of the bracket.” Meaning: They’re supposed to win this.
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
9:32 am
if that cr-p happened against your team (the ridiculuos dunk attempt )you guys would have been crying.Karma is a b-tch.see you in miami get ready for a thorough beat down.
JenChicktastic
April 30th, 2009
9:33 am
Maybe Spirit the Hawk can swoop in and lend a feather or two to mop up the tears D-Wade and Coach Eric are crying over a physical game and an oh-so-mean missed dunk by Josh.
Get over yourselves, Miami…without D-Wade you got no game.
As for TNT being harsh on the Hawks – name me one “sports network” that gives any props or credits to a Georgia based team (UGA/Tech/Hawks/Falcons/Braves) when the deserve it (with the exception of the Braves on TBS/Peachtree TV)?
Hawks should put this one away in game 6! Any update on Horford’s ankle sprain?
Dejay
April 30th, 2009
9:33 am
So Josh Smith is guilty of showboating? Really? Don’t we see Labron and Kobe do this in almost every ‘effin game to finish an opponent off? Doesn’t ESPN highlight the ending of a Cavs victory with a sick Labron jam that totally demoralize the other team? Really, folks.
If the shoe was on the other foot and Wade attempted a signature dunk while up 20, no one on TNT or ESPN would say a word. I doubt that it would even be replayed. They would’ve poo-pooed Woodson and the Hawks for feeling ‘insulted’ and ‘embarrassed’ and told them they they had no room to talk when you’re getting beat by 20.
And as for Miami being upset at the Hawks, they’re barking up the wrong tree. They should be upset about Mario Chalmers making Flip look like Andrew Toney in his prime last night. They should be mad about Haslem not being able to keep Zaza off the offensive boards. They should embarrassed that Smith had so much time to conjure up that breakaway dunk attempt, that if given three more seconds, he could’ve gotten Nique’s old jersey out the back, put it on, and done a tomahawk slam instead. And most of all, they should be upset about BEING DOWN 20 TO A TEAM WHO DIDN’T HAVE TWO STARTERS IN THE GAME.
If they come back here without the need of a ticket for Game 3 of the Eastern Semis, its a ‘we’ problem. Until then, it’s a ‘them’ problem.
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
9:37 am
Barry really ? the shuffle ? by the way we won in atl by15 or you forgot? you guys love your HAWKS so much they can’t even make the front page of your only news paper pathetic!
Optimistic Falcon Fan
April 30th, 2009
9:39 am
Amen, JenChicktastic! But the other networks can hate all that want-we know how good our guys are! I wish we would make the championships in all sports so they have no other choice but to show us and say something good about us!
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:40 am
Great Andrew Toney reference, Dejay. I used to think Mike Bibby was a lousy defender … and then I saw Mario Chalmers.
And Ms. Jen, the Hawks don’t practice until 10:30, and I’m all but certain we won’t have a definite word on Horford even then. He seemed optimistic about playing in Game 6, but esteemed colleague Sekou Smith was more cautious.
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
9:45 am
In all seriousness. The Heat are who we thought they were!! But damned if we are gonna’ let em’ off the hook.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:46 am
Actually, Coach Green, I’ve been disappointed by the Heat. I thought that team was better than this. Wrong again.
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
9:52 am
I dreaded playing Philly, they’re too much like us for me to be comfortable. And Mark: I’m glad we’ve seen the softer side of you. You must have known the cuts were comming. LOL
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
9:56 am
Dominique Wilkins felt the same about Philly, NS.
Multimedia update: Under no circumstances should you check out this Seattle station at 10:45 EDT. Because I’ll be on with Mitch Levy.
PMC
April 30th, 2009
10:02 am
Are the heat 6th grade girls? Really? Whining over a dunk (ATTEMPT) in a professional league that makes it’s bank on entertainment? Isn’t Dwayne Wade on that team?
Seriously? That’s panty waste stuff. Good Job Josh. Next time throw it down harder and work on the execution. Other than that. Please continue throwing down. Skip the jump shot, skip the full court dribbling, THROW IT DOWN and do what you do!
Go HAWKS! Continue taking it too them in game 6.
nunna yo biznezz
April 30th, 2009
10:03 am
As predicted,the hawks won last nite,but,to think they will win in miami come friday night is not something that can’t happen,but,it won’t..
this team is too inconsistent..yes,they have won 2 in a row,but,you know our team won’t show up..
1st,zsa zsa will not show up..great rebounding game the last time in miami but won’t be the same when now he will have someone on him blocking him off the boards and making him play defense where in he will be in early foul trouble..solo,bless his heart,won’t be the answer once he does get in foul trouble,but,morris will be..look for morris to have a great 1st half and not a great game..woody will let him play in the 1st,he’ll do A great job,and then come the 2nd half mr.morris will be on the bench..woody still does not get it..
2nd,joe johnson won’t show up..poor joe..if he can’t come off A screen or be in the flow on a fast break and shoot on the spot,he will not be a factor..
3rd,josh will be josh and lose focus and be 1 for 12 on 3 pointers,and 4 out of 9 from the field..
woodson will be forced to play more than 7 players,but because he has no confidence in his lower bench,then this team will suffer and we will have a new coach next season…
WR
April 30th, 2009
10:04 am
Why is everyone making such a big deal about Josh Smith’s dunk attempt. If it was a close game and he blew it doing something stupid than fine I understand, but in a blowout you do something to say thankyou to the fans for coming out, that was all for the fans. To naysayers, remember game 6 between the bulls and lakers in the NBA finals back in the early 90’s, the bulls were killing the lakers and what did the great micheal Jordan do, he went in for a layup switched hands in mid-air, and layed it in, its still one of the most popular highlights in his career, and it was all for the fans it wasn’t something he had to do, it was about entertainment.
Atllovesthesteelers
April 30th, 2009
10:05 am
Like I been saying if you don’t want to get blessed at Phillips Arena the Heat should learn to play defense. Down two starters, and they still let the Hawks put it in cruise control all night. This with D wade scoring almost 30. I got one word for the Heat’s effort last night “PATHETIC”.
preston
April 30th, 2009
10:08 am
Great win for the Hawks. The biggest difference for the hawks in the last two games as opposed to the prior two has been better defense and offensive fluidity. when the Hawks get consistent production from Mo Evans, Flip Murray and Zaza, they seem to be able to compete with anybody, but when we get nothing from those guys, we stink up the joint. Fip Murray is probaly the most fearless guy on the team…he will take shots when nobody else wants to, and he never shys away from tring to drive the ball to the hole regardless of the outcome. Zaza is probaly is the physical guy on our team, and without his tough as nails attitiude, this team would be soft as butter, (although Jsmoove and Horford are respectable in the toughness catorgory themselves)). Ok, so what is going on with Marvin Williams? His injuries are really starting to mount up….and with the way the team can perform without him, he may just be better playing for the hawks comming off of the bench, hec’ the hawks may just be better off without him.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
10:10 am
If Josh Smith tries 12 treys in Game 6, his coach will be arrested for assault and battery.
From ESPN.com, here’s John Hollinger’s take on Game 5.
Green Tea
April 30th, 2009
10:19 am
Instead of the “through the legs” dunk attempt, I’d rather have seen him throw down with a monster two handed windmill a la Nique. I thought it was funny that he missed. I mean they were up by 20, who gives a flip if he show boats! At least he isn’t out there throwing bows to faces like Howard or mugging players with Beyotch Slaps like Rondo. It was just a dunk. What’s the big deal Mark??
nunna yo biznezz
April 30th, 2009
10:21 am
preston
April 30th, 2009
10:08 am
Ok, so what is going on with Marvin Williams? His injuries are really starting to mount up….and with the way the team can perform without him, he may just be better playing for the hawks comming off of the bench, hec’ the hawks may just be better off without him.
did u notice how marvin played when joe johnson was out?
our coaching staff does not have plays designed to implement both joe and marvin in the mix..marvin can play,and will be A force once we have him into the team concept by doing more than just getting garbage rebounds..
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
10:23 am
BOY YOU GUYS ARE SAD, DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU ARE GOOD?LOOK BACK AT THE OLD BLOGS AND YOU WILL FIND A BUNCH OF BABYS CRYING AT HOW SOFT THIER TEAM IS. NOBODY CARES ABOUT THE HAWKS IF IT WASNT FOR D-WADE YOU WOULDNT EVEN BE ON TNT .WADE IS GOING TO PUNCH YOU GUYS IN THE MOUTH, AND I WILL BE LAUGHING SORRY HAWKS FANS.
Armando
April 30th, 2009
10:33 am
I smell a 7 game series. And a healty Wade means the Heat are better then the Hawks. The Hawks are terrible in halfcourt basketball. If the Hawks do advance they will be exposed by the Cavs.
nunna yo biznezz
April 30th, 2009
10:36 am
you know what im saying mb,he is trying to show he is a complete player by going out And shooting all of these top of the key shots and 3 pointers,which mostly have resulted in air balls..
questions mr.bradley..
during practice,or in the locker room,has either you or mr.smith had personal knowledge of woody discussing josh’s shot decisions?
2nd,who is the voice leader of this team?someone who gets into players faces or is one who will speak up and speak out on team concerns and issues..
3rd,josh went to akeem in houston texas to work on his game last year,and other players did the same,by going outside of the hawks coaching staff to get better..its like they don’t have the confidence in they’re own coaching staffs..
that bothers me,does it bother you?
i’ll hang up and listen,lol
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
10:36 am
I’m confused. If Wade is so hurt, why’d he play in the second half of a 23-point game?
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
10:38 am
One player does not, a team makes. “YODA”
Native Son
April 30th, 2009
10:40 am
He must receive bonuses when in a blow-out game.
GoldenRetriever
April 30th, 2009
10:41 am
Mark Bradley is correct that the Hawks are too good for the Heat. The Hawks should forget the fact that they have the home court advantage and there is a safety net game on Sunday at Phillips arena. Why? Because D-Wade may go crazy on Friday, help Miami win and create so much momentum for the Heat that it carries into game 7. If that happens the Hawks could come out flat in game 7 like they did in Boston last year and get smoked and lose the series. Also, dont forget in this series, the Heat have already proved they can win two consecutive games (games 2 and 3). Should the Heat do it again in games 6 and 7 the Heat would win this series. This series is definitely not over. The Hawks should play Fridays game as if they are trailing in this series 0-3 and are ready to play desparate basketball just to stay alive. Its not that I doubt the Hawks or that I am nervous, its just that the Hawks haven’t been a consistent winner since the Fratello years and I dont want to give the Heat any life at all. Guys, come out on Friday, drop the Heat and eliminate them from this series. Then you can concentrate on LaBron James and the Cleveland Caviliers.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
10:41 am
I’ve never been privy to a Woodson conversation with Smith. But I’m guessing Sekou has.
Horford is a leader. Bibby is sort of a leader. Joe is sort of a leader.
And the Houston thing didn’t bother anybody, I don’t think. Didn’t Jeff Francoeur take hitting lessons over the winter from the Texas Rangers’ batting coach?
SlimG
April 30th, 2009
10:53 am
That a boy Josh. Sore losers need to learn that the game doesn’t end until all four quarters are expired. I agree, if it had been Dwade, there would be no problem. Oh yeah, the commentators keep asking why we were booing wade. It’s not that difficult. He’s the star of the opposing team! Good lookin out hawks fans.
Baba O'Riley
April 30th, 2009
10:55 am
Has anyone seen whodied??? I don’t understand the big deal with this dunk attempy. I thought the NBA was a showboat league. I’m gonna puke if I see the clip of the Miami players helping Wade get off the bench again.
Even the radio stations in SoFla (AM 790) were getting on Wade about his non-stop whining. They also laughed at Dick Bevetta protecting Wade during the melee, asking if he would do the same for DeQuan Cook. They were saying he had to do his best to protect a superstar with Stern in the arena. They are continuously all over the Hawks radio guy.
NRBQ
April 30th, 2009
10:57 am
Barry,
What, no OOOOONNNNNEEEEEE HHEEEAAAARRTTTBBEEEAAAAATTTT!!!!!! for the Hawks?
uga_b
April 30th, 2009
11:06 am
ndadome, I understand the 4 corners and the triangle offense (which you may still see in the NBA). We also instituted a shot clock and people stopped playing defense outside of the playoffs. Most of it now is pick and roll and one-on-one. What Kenny Smith said about the Hawks is that we are a one-on-one team in halfcourt sets. Watching the game, I agree most of the time.
And btw, just to point it out, Smoove was so embarrassed after missing it, he got back there and got a rebound on the other end I am not sure he gets otherwise. I don’t mind hustle and swagger…and some high flying dunks. Someone should tell Miami they are in the highlight factory, not the widget factory.
Barry
April 30th, 2009
11:48 am
Hey Y’all:
NRBQ, It’s “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!” time with these HAWKS. They’ve been counted out last year against the CELTICS. They’ve been counted out during this series when they lost games against the HEAT. It appears there is a lot of pessemism and naysayers floating around these parts who are not local sports fans. Every series in these playoff the HAWKS have to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!” . They are the “NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK!!”. There is a changing of the guards in the NBA. The young teams are now mature. They are making their mark as the new stars in the NBA. Our Hawks are full of those new stars. We know about them here in Atlanta, but other fans don’t. That is why throughout these playoffs, and with every win they have to “SHOCK THE WORLD!!!”. Which they are doing. After we beat the HEAT, we deal with Cleveland. And again, we will make our staple in “SHOCKING THE WORLD!!” about this nitty, gritty, bunch of ballers we have in Atlanta called the “ATLANTA HAWKS!!
NOW LET’S PLAY SOME BALL, BABY!!!
LET”S GO HAWKS!!!! LET’S GO HAWKS!!!! LET’S GO HAWKS!!!!!!!
SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is a SECRET from a HAWK FAN. TELL EVERY BODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
…………………….”ATLANTA HAWKS, BOOM-BYE-YEAH!!!”…………
………………………….”SHOCK THE WORLD!!!…………………
Darrin "The Vent King"
April 30th, 2009
12:02 pm
D-Wade = drama queen = D-Babe
Miami needs to be more concerned that they got pimp-smacked with ANOTHER double-digit loss, than a missed dunk. After all the lame, sore-loser fouls the Heat were dishing out, they’re lucky that all one of Hawks responded with was a flashy yet unnecessary dunk than a punch to the eye. I’m tired of hearing that “this is playoff basketball” dung because its just giving some losers reason to maul an opponent in hopes they hurt a guy that’s hurting them on the scoreboard or the glass. Rondo did it in Boston and now the Heat are doing it to the Hawks. If anyone should be mad, it should be the Hawks after what happened to Horford and Mo Evans. If this were baseball, someone on the Heat team would’ve been getting a high slider to the BACK! Their fortunate all we did was try to embarrass them with a dunk. If I were coach, I would have ordered a clothes-hang on the next Heat player that went for a layup after that bull they pulled on Horford and Mo Evans.
Now back to D-Babe, man how long is long enough for you to lay on the ground man? Everyone in the playoff is getting thrown down left and right, But D-Cave is the only one I see laying their forever. I guess he’s waiting for the sympathy applause from the crowd like his commercials before he gets up or something. Okay, okay the one where he bumped his po’ wittle head on the court was a legit one, but I remember some college kid recently in the NIT smacking his grill three times as hard (actually losing blood and a tooth I believe) on the floor chasing a loose ball and another flipping upside down after a dunk and landing on his back banging his head twice as hard and both got right on up and shook it off. Good grief, D-Lay, could you please grow some and stop being so soft? All these unofficial timeouts is killing the flow of the game man. I enjoyed watching this guy play before, but this series is really starting to open my eyes to a piece I saw on ESPN about D-Fake where his father said he knew his son had game but they had to toughen him up cause he was always crying and was too soft. It appears some of that is still in him and it is pretty lame.
Alright I’m done with getting that off my chest and am preparing myself for the home court referee treatment I know the Hawks will have to suffer through tonight. That is something David Stern needs to address too. It is past obvious how the home team in both regular season and playoffs are getting all the calls but that’s for another vent. So go and finish these busters off Hawks so I won’t have to hear how much agony D-Pain is in because he’s crying is starting to cause me major pain. Well that and ESPN’s coverage of that situation being the only reason the Hawks are winning games.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AGTFan
April 30th, 2009
12:05 pm
The dunk wasn’t what dis-respected Miami. The total pounding is what dis-respected Miami, because they showed themselves unworthy of respect.
RickNole
April 30th, 2009
12:08 pm
Enough about Josh’s dunk, lets whoop that azz in Miami and move on. I am tired of looking at D. Wade.
Darrin "The Vent King"
April 30th, 2009
12:11 pm
“I’m confused. If Wade is so hurt, why’d he play in the second half of a 23-point game?”
That’s easy MB- D-Babe is a drama queen. I am losing a lot of respect for Mr. Softie in this series. I’ve NEEEEEEEVER seen a guy milk a foul like this guy. His back wasn’t hurt, he just plays up to that stuff for attention. Guys are getting smacked around left and right in these playoffs and he’s the only one laying on the ground like he’s been sniped or something. Grow some dude! Now he’s talking ’bout he and his teammates were insulted by J-Smoove’s dunk attempt, well I as well as a lot of other Atl fans are embarrassed by his girle-man ways!!
Baba O'Riley
April 30th, 2009
12:29 pm
D-Wade is closer to the Chris Paul-Dwight Howard level than the Kobe-LeBron level. This guy was in the MVP conversation?????????????
tscott625
April 30th, 2009
12:50 pm
Man, I really wish J-Smoove wudve made that dunk….
DawginLex
April 30th, 2009
1:28 pm
This team has not proven anything other than they can get to a game 7. Win the series=proving something.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
1:42 pm
We all know stars want every call. That’s nothing new. But Wade is pushing the edge of the envelope.
John Abraham
April 30th, 2009
1:49 pm
Check out this guy.
From: http://www.examiner.com/x-8479-Miami-Heat-Examiner~y2009m4d30-Miami-91-Atlanta-106-Game-five-thoughts
- Can’t say I didn’t lose some respect for Al Horford’s mock-seizure after a *wait for it* moderate ankle sprain. I’ve had moderate ankle sprains and after a bit of ice, I’m good to go. I was half expecting Horford to gyrate towards the stands and begin crawling backwards down the stairs. Overreaction much?
- I hate hearing people blame the referees for losses, and I’m definitely not going to do that, but there were some seriously questionable calls in this one. From Wade’s flagrant foul, to Pachulia’s stiff-arm no call, this was not the finest display of refereeing I’ve seen in the playoffs. In general, in the last couple of games I’ve seen a solid number of bad calls going against both sides.
- How cocky were these Hawks? Been there before? Doesn’t seem like it. From the chest bumping and over the top celebrations (Did you see Mario West going crazy after forcing Wade into a missed three-point attempt at the half time buzzer?), to Smith attempting (and missing) a between-the-legs fast break dunk, you could sense the Hawks desire to embarrass the Heat.
Baba O'Riley
April 30th, 2009
1:51 pm
Can someone tell me what Steve Hollman (sp?) said about Spoelstra on the broadcast last night? That has sports talk down here in SoFla in a tizzy.
uga_b
April 30th, 2009
2:08 pm
D-Wade or D(i)-vac? For the uninitiated:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgPHIT61FfU
brewdawg
April 30th, 2009
2:14 pm
It’s not fair for us to speculate and judge how badly D-wade is hurt. Only he truly knows. We aren’t out there grinding night in and night out. We are sitting on our fannies drinking beer and eating chips. (Well, I am at least). As far as milking fouls, Paul Pierce is miles ahead of Wade in that department. In fact, he’s miles ahead of anybody in the NBA. Heat take game six, then the Hawks close it out at home.
ChillyMutt
April 30th, 2009
2:16 pm
So so wrong … indefensible wrong. Missing an easy scoring opportunity for showboating is ALWAYS wrong. And why give your opponents bulletin board material going into the 7th and deciding game??? Just a really stupid and immature act.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
2:35 pm
We’re not going into a Game 7 just yet.
Darrin "The Vent King"
April 30th, 2009
3:18 pm
Even though D-”Babe” is irking the mess out of me right now, you’re so-ooooooo right brewdog- Paul Pierce is LIGHT YEARS beyond anyone in the league in that department, maybe top ten all-time. And true, we don’t know how hurt D-Pain is, but the reason people even speculate is because of how he always seems to come back not only NOT missing a beat, but playing even stronger! Its hard for people to buy into his pain when he does that in such dramatic fashion. I think his pain threshold is just lower than we expected, something like Vince Carter. Even Wade’s father (in an ESPN piece I saw) claimed his son was too soft and a crybaby when he was a little kid and that comment alone explains some of what I see in him now. Its just grown up sympathy seeking now, just my opinion though. Highly coincidental if I’m wrong though you have to admit…
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
3:19 pm
You GUYS SUCK ALL OF A SUDDEN EVERYBODY IS A HAWKS FAN.THE MOST EMPTY SORRY ARENA IN THE NBA.AND YOU WANT TO COMPARE JOAN JOHNSON TO D-WADE REALLY? YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO GET YOUR ASSES HANDED TO YOU.THEN YOU WILL FIND OUT WHAT A REAL TEAM IS LIKE. SEE YOU IN ATLANTA,OR MAYBE YOU WONT SHOW UP YOU FRONT RUNNERS.!
keith
April 30th, 2009
3:19 pm
A – Dwayne Wade – Just shut up, think of it this way, you’ll have something to talk with your buddy Chuck about next week at your next commercial shoot.
B – On the Hawks and the history of falling short at the end of series. I don’t think that’s going to be the case this time. I think they’ve already had their make or break moment. Came at halftime of game 4 in my opinion. I was sick at my stomach thinking I was about to see this team fold. But they didn’t. Coming off two games of a unstopable 3 point barrage resulting in losses (noone wins in any league when their opponents shoot nearly 60% from 3), then another one to cut a huge lead at half. Most teams (especially Hawks playoff teams) fold right there. They didn’t, they played with poise, and held them at arms length eventually winning by double digits. I think that was a defining moment, and one we very well could be looking to in the future as the changing point for this franchise.
C – Josh Smith. Who cares what the Jet or DWade’s big buddy says. Do what you do. I for one hope, that if the Hawks are up again by 20 with minutes left in garbage time Friday in Miami, that you try it again. Except this time throw in a 360 and a glass slap as you rip the rim down.
Darrin "The Vent King"
April 30th, 2009
3:26 pm
Outside of that, I think its BEYOND silly that the Heat are getting so upset about one lame dunk attempt that was MISSED. If anything they should be mad at themselves for playing so horribly- that was what was embarrassing! I guess they need extra motivation though. I take to that what some football player once said- “If you don’t want me dancing in the end zone, KEEP ME OUT OF THE END ZONE!” Where was the Heat’s defense on that play? No one could have been too mad, they didn’t try and stop it. The Heat’s coach, Spolestra (or however you spell that), should be more concerned with his team letting Smoove attempt that, than wasting time acting like his and his team’s egos were bruised. It’s all just a ploy too pump the Miami crowd up and get extra calls from the refs when they get to Miami. It’s all good, even IF that works they still have to come back here. That’s IF it works….get ‘em Hawks!!!
Darrin "The Vent King"
April 30th, 2009
3:34 pm
You’re right, we can’t compare J Johnson to D-Babe, Joe is nowhere near the drama queen [Tears in a] Flash is…lol And looky there- I didn’t have to type in all caps either to get my point across either..marvelous!
uga_b
April 30th, 2009
4:18 pm
Last thoughts on Smoove.
I for one admit that I got out of my seat and was secretly hoping he would do some kind of amazing jam. He has won the slam dunk contest; I would have been disappointed. We were all expecting it!
heatforlife
April 30th, 2009
4:44 pm
MAYBE YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE THE CAPS LOCK BUTTON IS JUST LIKE YOUR TEAM DOESNT’ KNOW HOW TO BE PROFESSIONAL.2006 MIAMI HEAT NBA CHAMPS , HAWKS CHAMPS UHHHHHHHH?????????
PMC
April 30th, 2009
5:09 pm
Caps lock is located over to the left on your keyboard.
Nothing like bringing up championships from 3 years ago to make yourself feel better about getting your head kicked in about the better team this year.
Heat fans are starting to sound like Cowboys fans.
Hey, the Marlins are playing well… looks like there are about 48,000 tickets left for the next game.
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
6:19 pm
Go back and watch 10 minutes of pro basketball on ESPN Classic. See how many guys — other than Rick Barry, who was a legendary pill — whined about every call.
Times have changed, y’all.
brewdawg
April 30th, 2009
6:31 pm
Seems like you and Rick Barry have a lot in common Mark!
Mark Bradley
April 30th, 2009
6:35 pm
I’m only a semi-infamous pill, I’ll have you know. Not legendary.
Meanwhile...can you imagine?
April 30th, 2009
7:47 pm
Can you imagine Josh Smith trying to pull that stunt on a Larry Bird led team? A Joe Dumars led team? A Michael Jordan led team?
Need we even speculate on what Bill Russell might have done had Josh Smith even so much as had a glimmer in his eye that might have tipped off Russell to the fact that he even contemplated it, much less attempted it?
I think not
skw6480
April 30th, 2009
8:10 pm
Seriously, why is everybody busting Josh Smith’s balls? So what if he was showing off? If he did something in the pre-game like Cleveland and Lebron, it wouldn’t be a big deal. Hell, what about when Pierce made the choking jesture when Boston beat the Hawks? It was applauded. I’m proud of him. I love to see the Hawks, who have been an afterthought to everyone (NBA, ESPN, anyone who watches sports), show that they aren’t afraid of anyone. Granted, it would have been a lot better if he would have actually made it, but I’ll take it. I want more of it! I can’t wait to see him slam on anyone who plays for the over-hyped Cavaliers.
Spudly
April 30th, 2009
9:06 pm
Over-hyped Cavs? The Cavs have gone deep in the playoffs the past few years- when they were getting 50 or less wins in the reg season. They have probably the best player in the league, who is just beginning to enter his prime. And this year, he’s got a pretty decent supporting cast. But the biggest difference between the Cavs and a team like the Hawks is the level of DEFENSE that the Cavs play. The Heat’s D is an average team and they have been no cake-walk for the Hawks. Defense wins in the playoffs. The Cavs have the best D in the league. Honestly, I be happy if the Hawks can win two against the Cavs. The Cavs are not over-hyped.
PMC
May 1st, 2009
9:45 am
Meanwhile…. I can’t imagine… those teams would never have lied down like dogs and given up a break away dunk at the end of a blow out and then on the subsequent miss…allow a steal to the same player. That is far more embarassing than the dunk. I guess it hurts more to look in the mirror.
Get Over It
May 1st, 2009
11:00 am
So JS tried a sensational dunk. Hmmmm….What could be the down side?….Spoelstra and Wade are OFFENDED?… The Hawks win by two less points?.. I could see the criticism if the game were anywhere near close. THEN it would be a boneheaded play. The GAME WAS NOT ANYWHERE NEAR CLOSE. Go JS. The rest of u haters GET OVER IT!!!!
He Got Hops
May 1st, 2009
11:13 am
Wah! Wah! Wah! Josh Smith has incredible leaping ability and tried to embarass us. Wah! Wah! Wah! Cry me a freakin river Heat fans. If you don’t want Josh Smith dunking anymore then tell D- (I got a broke back and a massive headache and anything else you can name) Wade to jump up and block his dunk attempt. Yeah right!! LOL, the Heat SUCK!!
Kevin
May 1st, 2009
1:00 pm
Seriously, this is what you guys think in Atlanta? From your commentators to your team you have no class, especially this crybaby Josh Smith. I am a fan of what he can do, and like most of the talent on your team like Joe Johnson, but really you all have accomplished nothing and the prestige of your team cannot compare to an organization like the Heat. The Hawks finished 4 games better than the Heat, so where is this obvious difference? I could use the excuse that Wade has been injured since way before this series and he makes up most of the team, but the truth is that the series is 3-2 and that’s what counts. I have no idea where this confidence comes from as you are bringing your garbage road record to Miami against a very motivated team and player that has PROVEN can carry his team in a series and come through in the clutch. I have a lot more confidence in my team than I would being on your side depending on guys like Josh Smith to step up so that they can miss the open shot they’re given. Overall, I think what counts is winning the championship, though making the playoffs with a rookie coach and young team is pretty meaningful after last year, so I hope you guys riot if you win, because in the end you’ll enjoy it so much more apparently. And for whoever thinks Wade didn’t deserve MVP consideration, off yourself you hater.
He Got Hops
May 1st, 2009
2:53 pm
“but really you all have accomplished nothing and the prestige of your team cannot compare to an organization like the Heat”
LOL, and you can thank Shaq for your lone title that will have no impact at all in this series. The Heat have gotten worse since then and the Hawks have gotten better. Maybe you guys can show up at the arena tonight chanting THE 2006 NBA CHAMPS ARE HERE!! That should get 2 or 3 people fired up.
PMC
May 1st, 2009
4:07 pm
Kevin, D Wade is a great ball player. I’ll always cheer for him when he suits up for Team USA. He definately deserves MVP consideration considering what he did the second half of the season playing with the talent around him. I’ll like the guy the rest of the year….but not when they play Atlanta. We don’t and haven’t ever had a guard as good as Dwayne Wade. The “classless” argument…however… ALWAYS comes from the losing team. The laying on the ground, the whining about calls, the whining about dunks… the faux fighting… man it’s just basketball.. physical basketball. The 1980’s Pistons teams would laugh at the “toughness” of this series. Don’t take it personal, it’s just basketball.
Mark Bradley
May 1st, 2009
5:04 pm
Alice Cooper, from “School’s Out”: “Well, we’ve got no class — and we’ve got no principals.”
frank
May 1st, 2009
11:52 pm
you still think the same way after tonights game? You guys are history, just like the braves and the falcons. GO HEAT
HaHa
May 2nd, 2009
12:20 am
GAME 6 – Seems like the tables have turned on all of you haters out there. Your Hawks needed diapers and a box of Kleenex and Enfamil or Similac tonight. Hey but good luck next game from a bunch of “Thugs” as your radio commentator suggested after all the fouls I saw from your flightless Hawks. Mark…hehe…lol..after the game tonight you piece looked like the stuff that come out of the Hawks bowels…….you can write your fun after game 7 when you win the series.
Unbiased
May 2nd, 2009
2:52 am
You are nothing but a biased reportert!!
Paul
May 2nd, 2009
12:40 pm
They sure looked like World champs last night didn’t they? Oh, I mean the HEAT. Now you get the choke factor and Dwayne Wade in Game Seven — Time for Josh to back into his man cave.
IUlia
May 3rd, 2009
8:54 am
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gusman354
May 3rd, 2009
11:31 am
OH OH HE IS PISS : http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketball/heat/sfl-wade-playoffs-hyde-s050309sbmay03,0,7355032.column
gusman354
May 3rd, 2009
11:35 am
HOW ARE YOU TODAY PIGEONS, READY FOR D-DAY?
All About Basketball
May 4th, 2009
11:02 am
[...] Game 5: The Hawks prove they're too good for these guys | Mark Bradley [...]
Twitter Trackbacks for Game 5: The Hawks prove they're too good for these guys | Mark Bradley [ajc.com] on Topsy.com
August 30th, 2009
1:29 pm
[...] Game 5: The Hawks prove they’re too good for these guys | Mark Bradley blogs.ajc.com/mark-bradley-blog/2009/04/29/game-5-the-hawks-prove-theyre-too-good-for-these-guys – view page – cached Mark Bradley of the AJC writes that, in winning Game 5 of their series against Miami, the Atlanta Hawks have established themselves as the better team. — From the page [...]