What's the big idea? Shaq as a Hawk wouldn't work

lancer

July 6th, 2010
9:23 am

First. Let Josh shoot

DP

July 6th, 2010
9:26 am

MB…the only reason I see for signing Shaq…management thinks it would sell a few more tickets.

Decatur Native

July 6th, 2010
9:27 am

the big peachtree or Shaq-lanta

Decatur Native

July 6th, 2010
9:30 am

Only way I can see it working if he comes in to show them “How to win” like how to go hard in practice, intenseity levels during games, most of all attitude, I think it would work kinda how it did in Miami more so than Cleveland.

DP

July 6th, 2010
9:31 am

If he signs here, FLA has Shamu, then we’d have Shaluga

SOUTH GA DAWG FAN

July 6th, 2010
9:32 am

Just say no to the Big Cactus , or whatever he is going by this time. he would sell tickets but he would only be good for about 15 minutes a game i would rather have randolph morris. Drew does not need this headache and I am a shaq fan , that is the shaq of 10 or even five years ago

J.J.M.

July 6th, 2010
9:33 am

good morning mark. you know anything about the josh smith trade rumors?

Michael

July 6th, 2010
9:33 am

Shaq wouldn’t be a starting center at this point. He’d be Horford’s backup, and in particular would be a wide body to counter Dwight Howard when needed. They could make worse moves.

Scotty

July 6th, 2010
9:37 am

completely disagree, and i think you’re missing the point here. we need help defending the better post players in the East, one of the reasons we got killed by the Magic is we have ZERO answer for Dwight, and we wouldn’t have made it out of the first round had the Bucks been trotting out Bogut every night.

we won’t win more regular season games, but we will win more playoff games with this move.

Nick

July 6th, 2010
9:42 am

Just because Josh would not line up with the 3 on paper does not suddenly mean he has to play the 3. There is no rule that says you can not have 2 guys who play the 4 on your squad…

dap01

July 6th, 2010
9:42 am

On paper it sounds like a good idea. But Shaq would not accept being a role player and his history the past couple of years says that he would not help.

Cleveland was worse with him.

Nick

July 6th, 2010
9:42 am

Excuse me, just because he would line up with the 3 on paper. My mistake…

Mike

July 6th, 2010
9:42 am

I disagree Mark. A small doesn’t necessarily have to shoot. A small can be effective without any plays called for him, like Shawn Marion. I think the 3 would be more effective for Josh. He could use his athletic ability even more by slashing, upping his offensive rebounds, catching more alley-oops, and shooting occasional threes … like Marion. Putting Josh in a position to drive while being guarded by sligthly smaller players is just what we need. AND … I’d agrue we’d get double out of him than what we get out of marvin from night to night … even if he didn’t take one shot.

ew

July 6th, 2010
9:43 am

Just when I thought the front office had it’s ish together and was making smart moves by keeping JJ…so much for THAT….

Contrary to popular belief, Shaq is NOT the answer to defend the post. We have to get better as a TEAM defense and Shaq doesn’t do that.

Mike

July 6th, 2010
9:43 am

However … I do agree that we don’t need Shaq. Find a way to get McGee in here. We will need another 3 point threat, which means Teague needs to be shooting now thru his dreams.

cp

July 6th, 2010
9:43 am

i would like to see a hawks big elbow dwight in return once in a while….

TimP

July 6th, 2010
9:44 am

There you go again with Horford at the center. We all know Horford puts up good stats as a center, but he is seriously undersized at that position. Horford has no chance against Howard. You still have to go through Orlando in the East and look what Boston did with Perkins. They told him to man up against Howard so everybody can guard the 3-line and by golly look what happen (also look what happened to the Celtics when Perkins went down in game 7 of the finals). The Hawks can’t do that with Horford. The Hawks fouled out their entire bench in the first quarter trying to guard Howard. I’m not saying Shaq is the answering, but the Hawks either need a footer or more girth down in the 5 spot.

Scotty

July 6th, 2010
9:44 am

Cavs had Illgauskas as well and tried to make Shaq a focal point, when for their lineup going “small” and leaving shaq and Z out of the lineup would’ve been the better approach. we do not have any big bodies to stack up against the better centers of the league.

plus, taking the burden off Horford (6′10, 250) to guard guys who have 2-3 inches and 100 lbs on him will only make Al more effective.

Darrin "The Vent King"

July 6th, 2010
9:46 am

As entertaining the “Big Aristotle” has been throughout his career to me, this has disaster written all over it. I know we need a “true” center, but gheesh Shaq is wayyyy past his prime and it would only hamper the rest of the young guns on this team. I just can’t see what he would do for us except collecting his last few NBA checks b4 heading off into the sunset. If those in charge of the Hawk’s organization actually thinks this is a good idea, then I have to just give up on them EVER doing what will be needed to make this team a true contender and this is after a slew of bad ideas already. Let’s see, Isaiah Rider, Jon “Contract”, signing an old Moses Malone, the Dominique Wilkins for Danny “No Knees” Manning trade, the last 4 or 5 1st round draft picks including Sheldon “Two Left Feet”, Williams, signing “Pretty Boy Chemistry Killer” Reggie Theus, the undynamic duo of Billy Knight and Mike Woodson, and couple that with the in fighting of the Atlanta “Killing My” Spirit Group one can not help but start to question their own loyalty to this team considering their history and their future if this Shaq signing is done. This would be yet another inept sign that NBA b-ball in Atlanta is never going to amount to anything unless someone who truly cares AND knows the game buys this team.

Too bad Arthur Blank doesn’t enjoy b-ball as much as football…

Riggodeaux

July 6th, 2010
9:46 am

Bringing in the over-the-hill, 38+ y/o Shaq is certainly consistent with substantially overpaying Joe Johnson. Combine the two, and the Hawks will be lucky to even make the playoffs, much less get past the first round. Casey Stengel had it right, in a different context: Doesn’t anyone here know how to play this game?

Dawglasville

July 6th, 2010
9:48 am

Smells of desperation.

Josh

July 6th, 2010
9:48 am

MB,

I also have to disagree. The Hawks main threat in the East is Dwight Howard and after I have seen Horford try to defend him, we need a true center. Somewhere in all the hoopla of the million articles already out there about Shaq possibly coming to Atlanta, Shaq said he is open to coming of the bench and splitting time with Horford. This is fine with me. And should be for you too. There is the other side of the rumors too. That the Hawks are talking about trading Josh Smith, Marvin Williams and Mike Bibby for an all-star PG. The only way this is good for the Hawks is if its CP3. Than it all works out and Smith does not have to worry about playing the 3. All and All, lets get Shaq. We need him just to match up against Dwight because have you seen Horford match up against Dwight? Its not a pretty picture. In fact, its not a pretty picture for most people guarding Dwight. If we are going to remotely think about getting any farther than the 2nd round, we have to get a true center.

BigE Dawg

July 6th, 2010
9:49 am

ASG is looking to get more fannies in the seats–Shaq would do that. I think he can help “a little” guarding with Howard and other big centers.
But he is not worth the locker room dissention he will cause a 1st year HC.
Shaq will walk all over Drew
Not what this young impressionable team needs

Mark–what other centers are available?

PMC

July 6th, 2010
9:49 am

What if they put horford at Small Foward?

It’s still not going to make the Shaq signing better, but Horford does have a pretty decent jumper when he needs it.

PMC

July 6th, 2010
9:50 am

At least he would be a good quote though, they need some funny in the locker room and they just paid 119 million to a guy who never really says anything.

TONE

July 6th, 2010
9:51 am

leave Horford alone at center get him a decent backup (not shaq) pick up a good defender and lets see what drew can do for you .

PMC

July 6th, 2010
9:51 am

Good teams that are on the rise though don’t typically sign 38 year old washed up players.

Luke Cage

July 6th, 2010
9:52 am

@Mike

I’ve been saying all last season we shoulda gotten McGee while he was just rotting on the wizards bench, but I don’t think thats going to happen now as he will be their starter.

F-105 Thunderchief

July 6th, 2010
9:52 am

Yeah, I lean against this one pretty strongly. We need Teague to be better than Bibby and to have the Wizard of Oz grant Marvin some gumption. Larry Drew is the key here. If he can be what few (me included) think he can, that is what will improve the Hawks.

Joseph Allen McWhorter

July 6th, 2010
9:53 am

My sentiments exactly on this Mark. The Hawks don’t need Shaq right now. He wouldn’t help them that much. Whatever team he plays for next season will almost be pushing him around in a wheelchair. He is overweight and doesn’t have anything left in the tank!

No Shaq

July 6th, 2010
9:53 am

Shaq—a big waste of money and roster spot. He’s over the hill and would just eat time that a better scorer could take.

Say What

July 6th, 2010
9:54 am

Your 66-16 and 61-21 comparison is silly. 1. Basically, they are the same. 2. Who knows what they would have been without Shaq there. Although, I don’t like the gorilla, your facts in number 1 are weak at best.

F-105 Thunderchief

July 6th, 2010
9:54 am

Also, was Zaza not an effective backup two years ago? I, and Kevin Garnett, thought he was. What happened last season?

HawksFan

July 6th, 2010
9:54 am

@TimP

Amen. Horford cant line up against Howard and no one on that bench could either. It was embarrassing.

Luke Cage

July 6th, 2010
9:54 am

What about Josh coming off the bench?

Grumpy

July 6th, 2010
9:54 am

Shaq as a backup, putting up 12 and 7 in 20-25 minutes a night, would not hinder the progress of either Al or Josh. And to point to a decline from 66 to 61 wins as a sign of Shaq hurting a team is the lamest argument I’ve read in a long, long time.

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July 6th, 2010
9:55 am

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Tech75

July 6th, 2010
9:55 am

As has been suggested, if they’re thinking of bringing him in, I hope it would be as a role player, to counterbalance the Howards and the Boguts and to spell Horfy and ZaZa occasionally.

No way Shaq is a starter on this team, as has been pointed out, that creates a lot more problems than it solves. But, I have no idea whether he would accept a lesser role, and I agree the coach would have a tough time managing him.

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July 6th, 2010
9:57 am

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TimP

July 6th, 2010
9:58 am

What Shaq will do is put more people in the seats. And the O’Neal vs Howard might still be marketable TV wise. Again, I’m not saying Shaq is the answer, but if 5.whatever million dollars gets you more season ticket sales and TV money, is it really that bad of a deal?

Luke Cage

July 6th, 2010
9:59 am

Problem in playing the magic is they let the 3 point shooters get rolling, I always say play Dwight straight up 1 on 1, he may get alot of dunks and points but then their 3’s ain’t going, Celts played him straight up with Perk & Sheed with tough physical D and covered their perimiter players and won. But that being said still would like to see a true 5 but not Shaq.

TheAntiMe

July 6th, 2010
10:00 am

I totally agree, Mark, that signing Shaq would be a bad move by Rick Sund. However, I totally disagree with your assertion that Al Horford (and therefore, the Hawks) would not benefit from acquiring a more traditional Center i.e. someone 6′11″ ft. and 250 lbs. or more. As good as Al Horford has performed at Center while giving up height and weight advantages to his counterparts, Horford would absolutely be a beast were teams having to defend him from the Power Forward position.

I also disagree that Josh Smith would fare badly at SF. Your argument sounds good on the surface because all most people remember are the 3-point airballs he has had a penchant for launching during his career. However, truth be told, Josh is an able shooter from 15 to 18 ft. and has been more judicious with his launching of 3-point shots the past season.

I think that you at least have to try acquiring a traditional (large and defensive-minded) NBA Center and moving Horford to PF and Smoove to SF because the status quo has been shown to be inadequate to get the Hawks any further than Round 2. I think that they can be so much more than Round 2.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 6th, 2010
10:02 am

I would say trading for Jamison and asking him to be Lebrons side kick in a system that didnt fit him was the reason why Cleveland didnt go further in the Playoffs.

Luke Cage

July 6th, 2010
10:03 am

Just throwin it out there Mark LOL.

Rather have Jermaine than Shaq though, he KNOWS he’s coming off the bench at this stage in his career and won’t be a negative influence, not sayin sign him but if I had to chose between the O’Neals it would be Jermaine.

Josh

July 6th, 2010
10:04 am

@MB
Howard averaged 21 points and 13.3 rebounds against the Hawks in Round 2. He didn’t beat them by himself. He didn’t even have a 30-point game.

The Hawks got destroyed because they tried to double-team Howard and left themselves open to the Magic shooters.

You have made my point exactly. With Shaq guarding Dwight, we no longer have to double team him. Those numbers Dwight put out some dang good numbers for being double-teamed.

Pi$$onaDawg

July 6th, 2010
10:04 am

We just blew way too much $$$ on JJ and now we are considering blowing money on an OLD MAN. Give me a Break. The Hawks can’t grow a fanbase with moves like this.

NC Braves Fan

July 6th, 2010
10:06 am

Mark: Michael Cunningham has asked the question if it makes a lot of sense to focus on the center position when PG and perimeter defense seem to be significant issues for the Hawks. Would you agree with that view and if so, who would you like to see the Hawks get — and how (free agent or trade)?

Josh

July 6th, 2010
10:07 am

@Pi$$onaDawg

What is your solution then? We have to have a true center.

PMC

July 6th, 2010
10:07 am

The Hawks lost to Orlando partially because they played terrible perimeter defense (hello Bibby)

Think about it. JJ Reddick has had a pretty decent NBA career… why? Dwight Howard is in there taking doubles and triples while he spots up clean 3’s.

The Hawks have to improve at PG big time. Hopefully Teague can be half of Rajon Rondo.

honest_abe

July 6th, 2010
10:08 am

horford wouldn’t be better as a power foward? and how do you know this mr. bradley? even horford himself admits power forward is his more natural position. going against guys his size and sometimes even smaller will make him even a bigger force…

as for josh smith… he needs to be moved… i love his talent. i love his athleticsm. i love his highlight reel dunks and blocks. i love it WHEN he puts forth effort. and therein lies the problem. josh plays hard when he wants to play hard. he plays smart when he wants to play smart. if he dedicated himself to becoming a niche player. like a ben wallace. he’d be an allstar. no doubt. but at times he sees himself as a poor mans lebron james and thats why he needs to moved. because he doesn’t know who he is. and if he has yet to figure that out its a strong possibility that he never will. also, if he didn’t listen to mike woodson, a coach with a nba finals ring what makes you think he’ll listen to a first year coach?

trade josh for a nice piece. let shaq man start in the middle for 15 – 20 minutes a game. resign chills. and you got a nice complementary five. teague or (pg in a trade), joe, marvin, horford, shaq

Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 6th, 2010
10:08 am

Also if memory serves aquiring Moses and Reggie was essentially bringing in 2 Black Holes. Once either of them got the ball you know were it was going, in the air.

Shaq at this stage can give you 15-20 mintues of dirty work and make the Eastern Conference big’s work a little bit harder than they normally would.

At 5.8 mil for 2 seasons, who else can the Hawks bring in that would be as good if not better?

BIG MASS

July 6th, 2010
10:08 am

You just listed all the reasons to bring him in. Be real with yourself and realize that Horford is a 4. If Shaq averaged 12 and 6 in 23 minutes and Al avg 14 and 9 in 35 minutes. It makes adding Shaq a plus. Also look at it like this. Atlanta beat Boston in the season series, but got destroyed by Orlando in the regular and post season. Now take the 3 matchups that Shaq played when Cleveland played Orland. Dwight only out scored Shaq by 10 points and had like I believe 15 more rebounds. But he played mega minutes compared to Shaq. Now having Smith play the 3 is another story, but there are plenty of teams that don’t have a 3 who is an outside threat every night. Plus they have to do something to get bigger and better.

Ryder

July 6th, 2010
10:09 am

Mark, you just missed the entire point of bringing in Shaq. Did you not watch the semifinals against Orlando? Atlanta was done after game 1. Horford succeeded as a center in college against smaller talent but he is too small to play against the bigger teams in the NBA.

Atlanta, as they are presently constructed is TOO SMALL to win an NBA championship. I know Horford is a cute story by making an All-Star as a Center, but you and the rest of these fans are crazy if you think he can stand up against the likes of Dwight Howard, Amare Stoudamire, and Tim Duncan, much less the Lakers frontcourt.

Shaq may be in the twilight of his career, but he is enough to handle Howard on the defensive end. His presence alone would make Atlanta more of a threat in a wide-open Eastern Conference. We’ve been screaming for a big for years, and this is far and a way their best chance.

As for Josh Smith, trading him may not be a bad option if it makes Atlanta into more of a halfcourt team. I think he is a SportCenter highlight type player, but not the type that wins you titles.

I applaud Atlanta management for making bold moves.

Matt

July 6th, 2010
10:12 am

Is it just me, or does that photo of Shaq looked like it was photoshopped? There is NO WAY that he actually that “thin” in real life.

This would be a disasterous move for this team. You want to run, then you don’t bring in Shaq. An elephant seal would be able to move up and down the Court faster than he does at this point in his career.

Josh

July 6th, 2010
10:15 am

Chris Duhon has signed a 4 yr deal worth $15 million dollars with the Magic.

Luke Cage

July 6th, 2010
10:15 am

Anyway changing the subject, what about a shooter like Kyle Korver in a Hawks uniform Mark?

Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 6th, 2010
10:16 am

When was the last team to win a title playing fast?

Lakers- No

Celtics-No

Spurs-No

Pistons-No

Fast makes it exciting and gets you ESPN highlights, but ask the Suns if it brings you titles. You have to be able to execute in the halfcourt in the Playoffs win the game slows down and each posession is critical.

ParkerPuddwhacker69

July 6th, 2010
10:16 am

Am I missing something? Wasn’t depth at the 5/Center a need at the draft? I totally, 100% agree Shaq is no longer the Shaq of old, but he is two main things for the Hawks. Dwight Howard nemesis and box office draw for the Hawks. Face it, the Hawks are stale. They signed Col. Stale JJ for the max. Shaq would instantly create a buzz around the team. He can still drop 20 and 10 on certain nights. Plus, name another Center that is available that has the frame to battle the Magic?

Also, the talk of Horford being a C or PF? Have you heard of Karl Malone playing C? I never did. He did post up some big boys, but was able to be in the top 10 in scoring and rebounds, so why not have Horfy (terrible nickname) rotate over to the 4 and let shaq-za run the paint?

Regardless of age and other stigmas, you have to consider Shaq.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 6th, 2010
10:17 am

*when*

Dr. Warren

July 6th, 2010
10:17 am

This would be the quintessential Atlanta sports move. Bring in an over-the-hill, disruptive big name who might sell a few tickets but mainly would help a mediocre, perpetually strapped ownership feel “big-time” and think it has evoked the same feeling in the fans. We know better.

Stockdog

July 6th, 2010
10:18 am

I am a live long Hawks’ fan. I remember when they played at Alexander Memorial and the old Municipal Auditorium. This reminds me of the Reggie Theus, Moses Malone and Kenny Smith fiasco. Although, I think that adding Shaq would help Horford. I think Horford could become more of a low post threat if he a big body on the other side rebounding. If Shaq knows his role it would be a benefit. Secondly, attendance would improve greatly. So bring on the diesel.

asheville dawg

July 6th, 2010
10:20 am

There are two questions the Hawks (ASG) must ask: One, does Shaq make them a better team? Two, does he bring in more fans to watch a game? Regrettably the answer is no on both. So why bother?

Mike Jay

July 6th, 2010
10:21 am

You folks are nuts. There are about 1-3 ‘true’ centers left in the NBA. The game has simply moved away from that style of play. Hofford is great at ‘center’ he made the all star team for a reason folks. He is quick, usualy plays in good position and can rebound. Bigger guys can occasionally push him around but he holds his own more times than not. Nobody in the NBA can guard Howard when he is on his game….nobody. Our lack of perimiter defense killed us against the Magic not Hofford. Hell he was our MVP of the playoffs. Shaq would be terrible for this team. Hawks play best when the run the floor and play up tempo. Shaq can’t run….at all and is a pain in the ass.

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:23 am

I thought Phoenix made a mistake getting Shaq. I thought Cleveland did the same. I can’t think of one reason why it would make more sense for him to come to Atlanta. Backup or not.

Josh

July 6th, 2010
10:23 am

@MB

why all the Shaq hating? We do not need to move any faster than we have been. We need a big body to guard against Dwight. You may not like Shaq, but we have to have a true center. Horford is not the answer at center. He may be an all-star but he would be more dominant playing his natural position which is power forward.

BIG MASS

July 6th, 2010
10:24 am

In the four matchups between ATL and ORL in the regular season the numbers for D-12 vs Al went as follows:
22pts 17 rebs- 2pts 9rebs, 12&7-14&5, 31&19-4&4, 19&24-12&11

Horford got killed except in the 2nd matchup. It doesn’t have to be Shaq, but they better get bigger somewhere. There was no need to mention the playoffs. Besides you get to the playoffs by what you in the regular season.

TimP

July 6th, 2010
10:24 am

Ok Mark….so maybe the Hawks had to double team Howard because they know Horford can’t guard Howard by himself….I mean that’s just a thought.

Now the whole thing with Josh is this….Josh has no skills whatsoever. He relies solely on his incredible athleticism. He is a better passer than most people realize and he is all defensive…..so as long he is playing defensive off the ball. But he can’t stop stop LeBron, Carter, and Pierce one on one. He also can’t create his own shot. And from someone you should be able to take it to the rim at will, his 60% foul shooting is horrible. These are things you really need from a 3F. Josh has been in the league for 5 seasons now, so you have to assume at this point he is what he is.

What I do know is his contract is a bargain. I think his making about $10 million a season. For a team like NJ, who is starting to look like they may be big losers in this free agency period, a Josh Smith package might be a consolation prize. Devin Harris maybe?

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:24 am

Besides I thought we were trying to install a movement oriented offense. What about Shaq makes one think of motion other than “lack of”.

bigstack19

July 6th, 2010
10:25 am

Reggie Theus and Moses Malone were both duds upon their arrival at The Omni. Thanks for bringing back those memories Mr. Bradley. The Hawks need a point guard upgrade badly. They might think Shaq can sell a few tickets, but if that is there goal instead of winning then the Hawks will be spinning their wheels for awhile and continue to be swept out of the playoffs by teams like Orlando.

Stockdog

July 6th, 2010
10:25 am

The more that I think about, the less I like the idea. I rescind my previous post and say no way. We still need a big guy to help Al, but Shaq isn’t it.

Bud

July 6th, 2010
10:27 am

Who gives a crap!!!The money they are throwing around during this depression just makes more and more fans say the hell with the NBA.

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:27 am

Question: Do owners/GM’s work under a three strikes per off season system. I mean signing Joe Johnson to a ridculous contract plus signing Shaq…one more idiotic move and we should get new owners right?

All I'm Saying Is...

July 6th, 2010
10:28 am

Al Horford says point blank that his natural position is “the 4″ meaning Power Forward, so, once again, Bradley, I’m telling you that you are wrong and Al is not a Center. Who cares if he is an All Star or not at Power Forward? We’re trying to win a NBA title! I don’t think they should sign Shaq either but we do need to sign a true Center and I say they should sign Brendan Haywood. He is an UFA, 30 years young, and is available. Get Joe Johnson to recruit him and give it the full court press to a quality, North Carolina guy who is not use to people at the NBA level showing him love for his game. We don’t need scoring punch in the 1 position; we just need Haywood’s defensive presence. I would also keep Jason Collins and Randolph Morris to give us some beef on the bench to rotate into the 1 position.

LET’S GO HAWKS!

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:30 am

@MB
“That’s why the Hawks got destroyed. They didn’t even let Horford try to take Howard by himself. He’d have held his own.”

OMG I have been screaming that same thing since game 3 ended. I was starting to think I was crazy because nobody else was seeing it.

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:31 am

@MB

According to Michael Cunningham Al said that he was a power forward just the other day.

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:33 am

The quote from Blog entitled Al’s Summer (or something similar)

“I’m fine with [center] but my natural position is obviously the four,” he said.

honest_abe

July 6th, 2010
10:34 am

watching al try to guard dwight in the playoffs looked pathetic. too big, too strong… demoralizing.

wiley

July 6th, 2010
10:34 am

Yeah I really dont see Shaq helping us too much. He is injury prone now…. The Hawks have royally screwed themselves with the 20 million dollar man a year man…come on!

TimP

July 6th, 2010
10:36 am

@Mike Jay…you said “There are about 1-3 ‘true’ centers left in the NBA”. Well please name me the past championship team that didn’t have a true center.

Look at Bynum. This dude is average at best and the Lakers probably could get away with Gasol at C. But look how better of a team the Lakers are with Gasol playing PF instead of C. Its the same thing with Duncan.

The only reason why the league is moving away from the traditional centers is because no one wants to develop big men. If a kid is 6′10 or taller, he won’t even have a chance to step on a college.

SWAT Native

July 6th, 2010
10:37 am

Shaq even at his stage is about as good as you’re going to do for the mid-level exception. I like the Hawks team, but it will be difficult for them to go any farther than they have without getting bigger to match up with Cleveland and Orlando. I think it’s worth a shot. And, they’ll sell a BUNCH of tickets and jerseys.

Also, as for the comment that Horford was an all star but not Shaq, I believe that Horford was an actually injury replacement for Shaq.

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
10:37 am

That said, I don’t think Al would be a third as effective at the Four as he is at the Five. At the four he will be going against guys with similar quickness. Thast has been his real advantage to this point in his career. Of course, a few new skills can always change that. That’s what summer’s are for.

bigeasy830

July 6th, 2010
10:39 am

The Hawks need a strong personality in that locker room. Shaq may be what they need leadership wise and you do need a big body in the post. Start Shaq and make a trade for CP3. Trade smooth if you can and bring back Chills. Put Marvin on the bench if you can’t trade him, PLEASE!!!!. If Shaq does not work out at least you did not invest 6yrs and 119 million dollars for a gut that, I appreciate what he has done, but sometime you have to know when to walk away. And, if it was going to take 6yrs and 119 million doallars to keep Joe Johnson, then it was time for the Hawks to walk away and cut ties with Joe.

Reid Adair

July 6th, 2010
10:40 am

Absolutely, Mark. If ASG goes after Shaquille O’Neal, they’re just throwing away money on 1) his salary and 2) the luxury tax. O’Neal couldn’t bring a title to Cleveland with LeBron James. Do the folks with ASG honestly think he could do it with Joe Johnson? Ugh.

Bill Russell and Wes Unseld

July 6th, 2010
10:41 am

“That’s why the Hawks got destroyed. They didn’t even let Horford try to take Howard by himself. He’d have held his own.”

We concur.

BIG MASS

July 6th, 2010
10:42 am

Are the Hawks a Championship contender with an undersized center who is smaller than LeBron James?

jack

July 6th, 2010
10:42 am

So Mr. Bradley if you were GM who would you have on the team, and lebron is out of the picture

Andy

July 6th, 2010
10:42 am

Right on the money Mark. This has disaster written all over it. The only reason they would do this is if they want to sell a few more tickets to improve attendance.

Dave Cowens and Alvin Adams

July 6th, 2010
10:43 am

And, we agree with Bill and Wes. Horford’s the best center on his team. He’d be the second best forward.

PD

July 6th, 2010
10:46 am

Mark,

It was just reported this weekend on this site that Horford said he was a Power Forward. In this article http://blogs.ajc.com/hawks/2010/07/04/atlanta-hawks-al-horfords-summer/

But I feel you though, Shaq could possibly render J-Smoov or Horford useless. I prefer Haywood or Chandler.

cdog

July 6th, 2010
10:47 am

mark, you are going to be against anything that atlanta teams try to do differently and the obvious any way. you also was against the braves bringing up jason heyward so who’s listening to you? no one.obviously, with what we already have in za za pachalia, bringing in shaq will only be a positive move.no one is listening to you anyway so just leave this alone

bigstack19

July 6th, 2010
10:49 am

Is Shaq one of the “Big Name Free Agents” Joe Johnson is trying to get to come to Atlanta?

Barton

July 6th, 2010
10:51 am

Great passer in the low post for our new “ball movement” offense

Matt the Brave

July 6th, 2010
10:52 am

If they sign him as a backup, then yes, I’d say let’s do it. I would want to slow the game down in the 2nd half of the game because it’d mean less scoring opportunities for the other team. However, it’d also mean we’d need to defend like crazy in the first to have enough of a lead to win with Shaq on the floor. I like it if he’s a backup, nothing more.

JC

July 6th, 2010
10:53 am

I don’t like Shaq, but what other options do we have. I thought a trade with Dallas involving JJ and Dallas big (Dampier), Caron, and a point seemed like a good idea. But now, Dallas doesn’t want to pay JJ max money so we’re stuck. What other options are out there. It appears that the Hawks have no desire to draft a center, so who else could we bring in? I am torn on moving Josh but it seems like that may be the only other way we get better!

SteveW

July 6th, 2010
10:56 am

Mark, who do you suggest we sign to help us get past Dwight Howard? Horford is very good, but Howard is too big for him.

Also saw the Magic just signed Chris Duhon – good move for them – any suggestions who we sign to help us match up with Jameer?

Shaq

July 6th, 2010
10:57 am

Mark Mark Mark. One of the worst things Ive read from you in a while. Al was begging last year to sign big Z because he wants the burden off of him. Hes an all star player while being consistently overmatched night after night by teams that have elite big men. Imagine what he could do playing against people his own size or smaller. Id take alot of the burden off of him and provide some vocal presence that you dont get from Joe whos making 119 million dollars. The Hawks can be a contender with me.

CanHewitt

July 6th, 2010
10:58 am

Why not? The current Hawks team would never win more than 55 and get past the second round in playoffs unless they get a great point guard. So if that doesn’t happen they might as well get a big name star who can guard Dwight Howard. The worst case scenario would be 50 wins and second round exit, which would be pretty much the same without Shaq. And as some people pointed out, it will generate some buzz and bring more fans to the game. Shoot, I’ll go to more games if Shaq plays for Hawks.

Sick & Tired Of Being Sick & Tired

July 6th, 2010
11:00 am

Anyone watching the playoffs this past season realized that the Hawks are in need of a big strong (occupy a lot of space in the paint) center. Although I like Horford as a player, he can not consistently compete with the big centers in the league. It was painful watching him get pushed around.

Kreate

July 6th, 2010
11:01 am

Let the record reflect, Mike Brown didn’t lead the Cavs to anything. Lebron James did.

Josh

July 6th, 2010
11:02 am

From the mouth of Al Horford: ““I’m fine with [center] but my natural position is obviously the four,” he said.”

PaulieOldSchool

July 6th, 2010
11:03 am

Excellent summary of the key points against, Mark. We gain NOTHING by having Shaq here. All I can see is Moses Redux. We have JJ signed (or virtually signed) to an obscene contract and now ASG is looking to dump more $$ on someone else that can’t help us get further in the playoffs? Please, for the love of God, someone buy the Hawks!

papadawg

July 6th, 2010
11:04 am

UH, Kobe started winning championship after Shaq left. Enough Said

#21=Top50,1stBallot

July 6th, 2010
11:08 am

Nein on Shaq.

As for Horford at 4- Who cares what he says? Shaq says he cans till play effectively, but nobody believes him. Why should we believe Al? Just because it’s what you’ve known (UF days), doesn’t mean it’s best. Joe will say he’s best with the ball in his hand, do we believe that’s best for the team? Ahem…… [listen's intently]

RISE UP

Shaq’s exit strategy: Play for everyone - Lakers blog : The Orange County Register

July 6th, 2010
11:13 am

[...] of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution would just as soon see O’Neal continue his downward spiral somewhere else. The Hawks would be [...]

TimP

July 6th, 2010
11:16 am

First of all, Bradley, you need to present your facts a little more fully. How you gonna bring up the fact that Shaq’s numbers are half his career average when the man played 10 minutes less his career average. The fact is his 12 points 6 rebounds a game is still better than any other option the Haws have at C beside Horford.

Shaq willingly knows he would be splitting time with Horford. The last thing he wants to do know is play 30 minutes a night for 82 plus games.

Unless Shaq would just be horrible for the locker room, I can’t believe people would be oppose to an additional 12 points 6 rebounds a night, more ticket sales, more jersey sales and more tv money all for JUST THE MID-LEVEL EXCEPTION.

doc

July 6th, 2010
11:17 am

mark, as you put it, there are plenty of reasons to say no to shaq, just not by comparing him to moses. shaq at his worst is better than moses at his best. moses had one more stop at least after atlanta, milwaukee. i got to ask senator kohl personally about the move saying ti seemed dubious. as the owner of the bucks at the time he disagreed with me in his senatorial office after certain events led me there. moses was done at 33, shaq was still winning championships at that age wasnt he mark?

nor is the reason that the cavs didnt go far in the playoffs. shaq was not the reason the cavs did so poorly in the playoffs as he was just coming back from injury and there were underlying issues within james that seemed to have nothing to do with shaq. that comeback about the performance of the cavs was not close to being relevant and you know it. shaq will fall somewhere in a bigger market for bigger money and show he still has something left.

JSS

July 6th, 2010
11:17 am

The Hawks lost to the Bucks in 89 because they could not stop RICKY PIERCE and Kevin Willis’s sorry butt could not stay healthy!

lynberg

July 6th, 2010
11:19 am

Mark, looking at and comparing Cleveland’s regular season record to last season doesn’t say much. They were on pace for maybe 68 or so wins, they had the Eastern Conference crown early, didn’t Lebron sit the last 5 games or so?

Manny

July 6th, 2010
11:20 am

On the one hand, Shaq is a big body with good passing skills. He’s an underrated passer that can open up a lot in the half-court offense.

But the other hand is that he can’t run the floor and doesn’t have the ability that he once had. He can’t play that many minutes. He will slow down the offense in transition.

But here’s why I’m for it: I think that he can be a good role player: Half-court big man that will change shot trajectories. He will also be able to sit when we want to run and gun, so he may get more games from him. And it’ll make us a more flexible team because we have a banging threat inside, and we can sit him when we want to go lean.

But not only that, but he’ll sell more tickets and give the Hawks some star power. Atlanta is a cosmopolitan city with a lot of stars living here and to have one on the court can add value. And I would absolutely love to watch and read the post-game interviews. That’ll be fun also.

Ron D

July 6th, 2010
11:24 am

We need someone that can contribute throughout the season and not just slow down a Dwight Howard. Shaq is not a good fit for the Hawks.

Smitty

July 6th, 2010
11:25 am

MB – It seems you might be missing the point of the signing. Shaq coming to Atlanta would be in a bench role – 20-25 minutes per game. It would also allow flexibility with their lineup. Would you rather have Shaq or Jason Collins coming off the bench? At least the Spirit group seems to be doing more than filling out the bench with over the hill journeymen. I’ll take an over the hill former All-Star instead, thank you.

All I'm Saying Is...

July 6th, 2010
11:26 am

Bradley, you need to read the Hawks Blog on, hmm…what is it again…a site you might be familiar with…AJC.com!

See this link http://blogs.ajc.com/hawks/2010/07/04/atlanta-hawks-al-horfords-summer/ where the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s own Michael Cunningham quotes Al Horford as saying that his natural position is the 4 as in Power Forward.

Like I typed, Bradley, whether you think it makes sense or not is irrelevant because I will take Al’s opinion over anybody and he says he needs to play PF.

So again I say: Shaq no, but Yes sign a true Center and Brendan Haywood is the best choice out there!

LET’S GO HAWKS!

SB

July 6th, 2010
11:27 am

Well MB we don’t agree on much, I do and have always felt moving Horford to power forward could be a huge mistake. IMO he’s an undersized center and he does it well. Josh has played well enough at power forward for his haters to stop this non-sense.

SB

July 6th, 2010
11:30 am

All I’m saying…….. Dwight Howard said when he was drafted and a couple of years ago the his natural position is power forward. Do you think he was right? I’m not even saying your opinion is wrong, I am saying the player looks at it from his own point of view and he could be wrong.

SteveW

July 6th, 2010
11:30 am

The Celtics, reigning East champs want Shaq. Mavs want Shaq – quality organization – why not the Hawks. Who else is going to stop Howard? Good move by the Hawks. ATL has been loserville so long, we’ve forgotten the risks it takes to get a Championship.

And we need to find an answer to Jameer at PG also.

The Mavs wanted JJ for the max. Bulls, Knicks, Nets, Heat all wanted JJ for the max. Why not the Hawks? Because we’re losers in our mentality. The Magic gets Duhon, Carter, Bass, re-sign Gortat after going to the finals – why? They want to win. We scream don’t get the one guy who can stop Howard. Still waiting on suggestions other than Shaq on who can matchup with Howard.

SteveW

July 6th, 2010
11:38 am

So still waiting on who we get too combat Howard, if not Shaq – Jermaine O’Neil? I guess Horford, who said he was a 4, which Mark missed in his own paper, is the man. If so, we get destroyed for seasons to come. Sign Shaq you losers. Yes it’s a risk, but good teams take risks to get better.

Chip Shot

July 6th, 2010
11:39 am

hey Mark, check 08-09 season and check the second round of the postseason against Dwight before u say no to shaq. thanks.

Traci

July 6th, 2010
11:40 am

1. Shaq is the kryptonite to Dwight Howard. That’s the only reason to sign him.
2. He’s coming to Atlanta to party and to do appearances at the clubs.

If Shaq got serious – and went on a DIET. Lost about 150 lbs and got lean and mean. He might be able to give it one more last run. But BIG OVERWEIGHT and SLOW – what’s the purpose.

ooops I forgot sell tickets. (see#2 above)

Shaq – don’t embarass yourself – get in shape take some weight off of thoses ankles and your knees.

ohh yeah – stop being messy – we have heard about all of your body parts, women, team mates women, ex wives, former team mates.

Unless you are serious don’t come to Atlanta – the team needs no more distractions – Shaq at the Velvet Room, Shaq at Echelon 3000, Shaq at Strip, Shaq at Jermaine Dupri’s, Shaq and Allen Iverson caught up in a shoot out at The Compound. –too many distractions to win a championship.

TimP

July 6th, 2010
11:41 am

Hey Mark, how come you didn’t mention Shaq only played 23 minute a game when he averaged only 12 pts and 6 rebound a game? It makes sense Shaq would have a significant drop in production if he is averaging 25-30% less playing time. Even still, his 12pts and 6 rebounds at 23 minutes a game still makes him highly productive! We sure aint getting that from ZaZa Especially compared to Horfords 14 pts and 10 rebounds in 35 minutes a game.

Secondly, you present your arguments as if Shaq would take over the C position full time. I’m pretty sure Shaq doesn’t want to play 35 minutes a game 82 plus times a season at 38 years old. And like you said, pushing Josh to perimeter is not the best idea. But I do like the idea of having our second team anchored by Shaq and Jamal Crafword.

Thirdly, we are talking about a mid-level exception! Where else are you going to get 12 pts 6 pounds a game, a ticket seller, and more attraction for TV money at the mid-level exception. Your true legitimate argument is his locker presence. But he supposedly already has a relationship with Larry Drew, so if Drew is any type of a good coach, we should be able to handle that.

All in all, I’m not saying Shaq is the hands down answer, butr you argument is heavily biased. There are clearly possible advantages to bringing Shaq in. Just say you don’t like the man.

SteveW

July 6th, 2010
11:46 am

Just as I thought – no suggestions on who to get too stop Dwight other than Shaq. Mavs want him – Celts want him – we’re to big of losers in the fan base to want him – of course it’s a risk, but so is life – get Shaq! Win a Championship – go Hawks!

I really think Mark must be a secret Magic, Cavs fan – scared to death Shaq would beat down Howard, then Bynum if we got that far.

Mark, think of it as job security -no limit on the stories with Shaq here. P.S. You did retract that Braves are losers article you wrote earlier this year didn’t you? How about the ditch Troy Glaus Article you wrote? i do think you admitted you were wrong there – good man.

boots

July 6th, 2010
11:51 am

Mark, WTH is with the “UGA PLAYER ARRESTED” headline for the paper??? FIREWORKS on July 4? Are you kidding me??? I try to like your paper, I really do, but sometimes…

Ken Strickland

July 6th, 2010
11:51 am

MARK BRADLEY-your comparison of acquiring Shaq with our acquisition of Moses Malone is the same as comparing apples with oranges. First, MMalone was acquired to be a dominant starter, and we also added SG Reggie Theus to our starting lineup. When you add 2 dynamic starters, there’s always the risk of having chemistry issues, due to adjustment problems.

Shaq will be brought in as a backup, not a starter, and won’t have anywhere near the impact, potential adjustment, or chemistry issues that MMalone and RTheus had. I have no doubt he can give us more than we got combined from JCollins and RMorris under MWoodson. And that alone would make us 3 deep at the center position.

SHAQ IS STILL UNSTOPPABLE WHEN HE GETS THE BALL IN THE LANE, AND HE STILL HAS THE ABILITY TO GET OPPOSING CENTERS IN FOUL TROUBLE, WHICH IS SOMETHING WE’VE LACKED.

hatfieldgeoff

July 6th, 2010
11:57 am

This deal for Shaq reeks of a publicity move and is destined for failure. Shaq doesn’t have enough game left to be the difference maker this team needs. He will probably spend most of the time injured and he will be too slow for the Hawks uptempo office. He may sell some tickets but it is too late in his career for it to have a major impact on sales. People just aren’t going to care to see a former star as a shawdow of what he once was. I hope they pass on this deal. And let Johnson go as well. Why pay big bucks to a player who has proven he isn’t a superstar and doesn’t want to be one. Save the money, win 10 or 12 games less next year and see who we can acquire in the draft or free agency (though the ownership is always going to scare away most of the bid names.)

Ken Strickland

July 6th, 2010
11:58 am

For all of you who are so enamored with having us acquire a shot blocking center like TChandler, who’s unavailable since he decided not to opt out of his contract, or BHeywood, please answer the following question.

HOW MANY TIMES HAVE YOU SEEN ANY CENTER STOP DOMINANT, PHYSICAL CENTERS LIKE SHAQ OR DHOWARD BY BLOCKING THEIR SHOTS?

Jt

July 6th, 2010
12:01 pm

Dang Mark, you get it from all angles don’t you? I hardly ever read bloggers responses, only those to whom you respond. But read a couple of them and you were blistered in both. Hey, you right about Shaq- it is wrong on so many fronts- the only front that they can justify is maybe selling more tickets because of his celebrity. And that would be a kiss of death-it’s not going to happen.

Josh Smith is not going anywhere- you can make a strong case that with all his liabilities (outside shooting, pouting, taking nights off) that he has more upside than downside and is probably their most needed player. He has improved in all of the deficient areas every year and made great strides this past year. He wants to win badly and he has the greatest skill level on the team and is relatively inexpensive for the next 4 years. They would be fools to trade him. So, I guess we will find out what type of GM Rick Sund is. He has not shown himself to be a fool thus far.

And I like Joe Johnson- they would have taken a step backwards if he was allowed to leave- that’s why they had to overpay to keep him. But if I had to choose between JJ and Josh Smith- no contest- Smith easily.

James

July 6th, 2010
12:03 pm

The Hawks franchise is a joke.

A dude

July 6th, 2010
12:03 pm

Ummm, doesn’t having a big guy who can get on the defensive glass and fire outlet passes HELP you run? Wouldn’t Josh and Horfors be more effective if there was a big rebounder in the middle, allowing them to fill fast break lanes more frequently?

real hawk fan

July 6th, 2010
12:03 pm

we need to get shaq. He may not be as good as he use to be but he is good enouh to put marvin on the bench. We have problem with superman 2.0 he is scared of shaq So why not put a bog body to help Al get 120 million. Gortat, Howard, and Orton can get it. Shaq can be the Big highlight.Then we would have zaza, boss,and The big highlight.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
12:03 pm

I’m not sold on this idea that if you bring in a true center and Horfy plays PF, that automatically means Josh Smith has to play on the perimeter and shoot 3’s. I just don’t buy that. Just because traditionally there is a 1-through-5 (PG-Center) organization of a basketball team, that doesn’t mean it’s the only way.

You might have a ‘big’ team or a ’small’ team – ‘big’ being three frontcourters, two backcourters, or a small with two front-three back. Having a true center (like Shaq) affords you this opportunity to play different packages, and I don’t think you want Shaq playing more than 25 min a game, anyway.

Whether Shaq is the right fit or not remains to be seen, but I think this team does need a true center, and Horford should not play center for 48 minutes.

Paddy

July 6th, 2010
12:06 pm

The new offense is to promote ball movement. If Shaq is in the middle of that offense, what happens to ball movement? It would be called offense artheritis.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
12:07 pm

Big Team:
Shaq-Horford-Smith-JJ-Teague

Small Team:
Horford-Smith-JJ-Crawford-Teague

Shaq or another true center gives you this flexibility, and you still have ZaZa, Marvin, Bibby, JoCraw available on the bench as subs.

A dude

July 6th, 2010
12:07 pm

Horford’s versatility means that Shaq can spell he or Josh. We need him.

ASHCAN.

July 6th, 2010
12:09 pm

Man people kill me with this aint gonna work saying.Shaq is better than what we have now and people speaking of horford,good player but was murdered by all the good centers he played against.A team that acually runs a offensive set(what woody could’nt do)could have some good use for a older groomed center.My opinion is to sign shaq and start him.We have columnist and bloggers complain about what the hawks need and when they try to address it even if its short term they all are against it.What other center is out there that the hawks can get? we can say trade this player and that player all day,but at the end of the day can it be done?(wishful thinking about trading for superstar players).Bring the big man in and keep working on getting a solid center next year using draft picks and free agency ect…(trades will be clearer then(next year) because all(players)will be signed this year to there prespective teams).

Art Vandalay

July 6th, 2010
12:16 pm

Anyone that thinks signing Shaq would make us worse than keeping the exact team we have right now obviously didn’t watch the playoffs. Heck coming from Cleveland to someplace like Atlanta where you will at least get a little more of the ‘LA’ feel with celebrities at the game etc. is probably enough for him to dig deep and have a decent season. And yes you we are in a league up from Cleveland, I know these blogs are full of self loathers who get their kicks bashing our teams and city but I have lived here a long time and know a lot of people whos job it is to promote ATL and we are much closer in a good way to LA and Miami than we are to Cleveland or Milwaukee. That’s why it is baffling that more big name players don’t express an interest in playing here, at least before the realize the ASG can’t pay them, I mean most of then already live here at least part time anyway. The point is with the right team ATL can be a BIG BIG time NBA atmosphere.

ASHCAN.

July 6th, 2010
12:22 pm

Did not know that mark was against bringing in jayson heyward of the braves,i wonder why? thats just goes to show you that a blogger can be on point more than a columnist or a so called sports expert.

Mitch

July 6th, 2010
12:22 pm

How could this make our locker room any worse? Josh Smith has the worst attitude in the NBA. Shaq would come in and set him straight, yea there would be some cutting up, but that would build chemistry. Atlanta needs a big personality on the roster. Also, Larry Drew coached Shaq in LA. Plus like everyone has stated earlier Shaq would definitely help against Dwight. The reason the Cavs were worse with him is because they already had a legit center, and he took time away from him. We do not have a true center.

Willy

July 6th, 2010
12:24 pm

Moses Malone?

I agree with the sentiment here, but the reason the Hawks didn’t go further with Malone wasn’t because of Malone. He did what he was supposed to do, which was take every rebound available and live at the foul line. The problem that year was Kevin Willis’ broken foot. If he’d have been healthy, they’d of probably made the NBA finals. They were loaded!

tyger

July 6th, 2010
12:24 pm

That’s the Mark Bradley I remember, Dumb as a Doorknob…

The Hawks have been swept two years consecutively because 1. they couldn’t get a rebound; 2. weren’t tough enough to battle the fake Superman, Dwight Howard.

Shaq immediately addresses both of those issues. Sure, he has his short-comings, he’s at the end of his career, but he’s not getting any smaller and is still dominant in the paint. He also has a ring for every finger and can bring a level of leadership that this city has never seen.

Hawks are too small and there aren’t any BIGS available that can make a difference other than Shaq. Dallas isn’t letting Brendan Haywood go, there owner is afraid to spend a penny to win. Shaq doesn’t work with LBJ b/c he clogs the paint. However, the Hawks desperately need a paint clogger.

The fact that he only has 2-3 years left works to our advantage as well. We could get the most dominant big in NBA history next to Kareem and Wilt for little of nothing. Storied franchises, Boston and LA, both extended their dominance by utilizing older BIGS, Kareem, Walton, etc.

I vividly remember an over-40 Kareem not even crossing half-ct; but the Lakers knew that they could win with a 7′2 fly-swatter, why dont you realize this? Because you don’t know what your writing about.

Please ASG don’t listen to this idiot, he only wants to see you fail, so he can say I told you so. Get the only player that can neutralize D.Howard and extend Horfords’ shelf-life. In two years, maybe you can develop Morris or find another center.

Right now, we need Shaq, he makes us better. If there’s any doubt, look at his production per minute in this year’s playoffs. He was still dominating, but they sat him b/c that’s LBJs show. We don’t have those issues.

The fans, city and team would absolutely go bezerk for Shaq. We would feel like we finally have a chance, without him, we’re still the undersized, overachievers that can barely get outta the first round.

WilliamThunderchief

July 6th, 2010
12:25 pm

What on earth do you need Shaquille O’Neal for? You already have a very reliable and much improved center in Al Horford. Shaq is old and over the hill. Shaq’s lack of production was one of the main reasons the Cavs couldnt advance in the playoffs. I saw where Shaq had one good playoff game where he scored 21 points. Other than that, Shaq was a non-factor and was occupying a space that could have been taken by 3 or 4 players. Shaq takes up a lot of space seeing that he is as big as a mack truck. We dont need shaq. We dont need LaBron. We just need for the Hawks to play up to their potential and play sold defense. That formula right now will win us a championship.

jstew

July 6th, 2010
12:26 pm

Shaq is self centered and is self serving. Ever stop to wonder why he has now been on 5 teams in 8 years?Wondering why Cleveland is not offering Shaq a contract? Shaq is always about the camera, the money and himself.

BoscoWilson

July 6th, 2010
12:29 pm

An aging Shaq coming to the Hawks looks exactly like an aging moses malone and an aging reggie theus coming to the Hawks years ago to rescue the Hawks from mediocrity. It didnt work then and it wont work now because the Hawks are great enough without Shaq.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
12:31 pm

‘Shaq is the size of Stone Mountain’

How’s that a bad thing in the defensive paint?

Ken Strickland

July 6th, 2010
12:31 pm

HATFIELDGEOFF-You, like a lot of others, can focus on finding excuses for not signing Shaq if you want. But we managed to accomplish a lot last yr with JCollins and RMorris as backup centers, and starters MBibby and MWilliams grossly under producing. Consider the following:

MWilliams-MINS-30.5, PPG-10.1, RPG-5.1, APG-1.1, BPG-.06
MBibby—-MINS-27.4, PPG–9.1, RPG-2.3, APG-3.9, BPG-.04
SOneal—-MINS-23.4, PPG-12.0, RPG-6.7, APG-1.5, BPG-1.17

Now, after looking at what we accomplished last yr, and comparing the stats of not one, but 2 grossly under achieving starters in MBibby and MWilliams, and 2 all but none existent backup centers in JCollins and RMorris, how in the hell can anyone with a clue say adding Shaq to the mix wouldn’t be an overall improvement?

We aren’t going to make the same stupid mistake Cleveland made last yr by benching Illgouskas and starting Shaq. The Hawks WILL NOT depend on Shaq as a starter, but we will depend on him in certain situations off the bench.

i_am_soulstar

July 6th, 2010
12:32 pm

Mark,

I have a brief counterargument.

Everyone said that Jamal Crawford was more hindrance than help to a team, but the Hawks finally got it right when they put him on the bench. I think the same would happen Shaq, if he’s willing to accept a bench role.

I have a modified version of your 5 points listed, but they are stated assuming Shaq would come in as a bench player.

1) Shaq has almost nothing left, but what he has left is an upgrade over any other attainable back-up center.

2) Shaq isn’t as good as Al Horford, but he would be well-suited for special situations, which is why he should come off the bench.

3) Adding Shaq as a back-up center would bolster the Hawks frontcourt as he’s (as already stated) an instant upgrade over Zaza.

4) In all the situations where Shaq hindered a teams success, he was starting, just like Jamal Crawford. Once Crawford was allowed to focus on what he does best and nothing else, he had a career year.

5) As long as we don’t insert into our starting line-up, I doubt it’d be a Moses Malone repeat. We wouldn’t be putting the fate of entire games and series in his hands at back-up center, we’d be utilizing him when needed for what he does best.

i_am_soulstar

July 6th, 2010
12:33 pm

And besides, no risk, no reward.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
12:35 pm

Soulstar – mostly agree with your 5 points. The biggest question will be whether or not Shaq will accept a backup role. If he’s willing, I say let’s get him.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

July 6th, 2010
12:36 pm

Shaq’s lack of production is why Cleveland didnt advance? Really?

He missed 53 games last season with a thumb injury. Cleveland new going into the Playoffs he was not going to carry the load so they traded for Jamison, resigned Big Z and had him share minutes with Shaq. Shaq’s stat line for 22 minutes a night is solid in the Playoffs.

If you want to fault anyone again, it was Brown’s inability to get Jamison involved more in the offense and letting him hoist 3’s in the playoffs. Jamison shot 26% (10 for 39) from behind the arc during the Playoffs.

MICHAEL

July 6th, 2010
12:38 pm

BRINGING IN SHAQ IS THE EQUIVELENT TO BRING IN WILT CHAMBERLIN IN THE EARLY SEVENTIES TO THE LAKERS, EXCEPT WILT WAS A TAD BIT BETTER. HOW ABOUT GOING FOR HOWARD WHEN HIS CONTRACT IS UP? I’VE ALWAYS WONDERED WHY ATLANTA SPORTS TEAMS DON’T ATTRACT THE BEST, THEY ALL SEEM TO LIVE THERE.

rainman

July 6th, 2010
12:39 pm

I agree that Boston is our biggest competition in landing Shaq for the mid level exemption – assuming that’s the most he would be paid.
If – Shaq can only get 5.6 (or whatever the exact amt. is), and, he is OK with that & puts some effort into conditioning – then he would probably be the Hawks best option at this point.
Guys like Haywood & Chandler would cost more & would only be aquired if a trade were involved.

Ryder

July 6th, 2010
12:39 pm

There comes a point in which ASG and guys like Mark Bradley have to ask themselves if just winning a playoff series is good enough, because apparently it is for guys like MB and the majority of the fans on this blog.

Atlanta lost a lot of games last year against bigger teams because Horford was the only true low post threat and if he gets in foul trouble look out.

What Bradley fails to realize is that Atlanta almost got beat by a Milwaukee Bucks team WITHOUT THEIR STARTING CENTER! Even if Shaq is half of what he used to be he creates a threat down low that will make opponents think twice about throwing the ball into the paint.

A lineup of Horford-Smith-Shaq-Teague-JJ increases their chance of competing with the bigger teams of the NBA, not just survive against inferior teams like the Bucks.

Atlanta needs to get bigger, and play a smarter type of game in order to step up with the halfcourt teams of the league in the month of May.

cdog

July 6th, 2010
12:39 pm

i’m under the impession that mark bradley want to see atlanta’s pro teams lose so he can write something negative about them.shaq coming to atlanta a question? come on.if kobe or lebron was coming to atlanta, he would try to start a negative column about that.the only place the hawks can go with this is up plus horford would learn valuable experiences from one of the all time great centers in the game.bradley, stick to baseball or in other words, you might want to write about the thrashers, no one is bothered about them

AS

July 6th, 2010
12:40 pm

I would love to see J smoove play a role similar to Gerald Wallace on Charlotte, as a slasher and scorer, flashing into the paint from the perimeter outjumping the small forwards who will guard him to get some offensive boards and put backs. Marvin tries to do this but he is too timid. I think a frontcourt of smoove, horford, and shaq/haywood/brad miller could match up with anyone in the league

Halsey

July 6th, 2010
12:40 pm

The Hawks need to add a long body to their front court. Shaq is better than some of the moves the Hawks could make, because he’s at least interesting.

Robyn

July 6th, 2010
12:41 pm

I completely agree with each and every point you make. Can I also say..you had me at “750lbs”!! Hilarious!

jking2123

July 6th, 2010
12:42 pm

Everyone is always picking on the size of Shaq (this column included), but the guy has 5% body fat (his body fat index has been tested, you can do the research if you don’t believe me). Shaq isn’t fat.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
12:46 pm

Robyn, you must be joking;

otherwise I have some knock-knock jokes that will have you rolling

Donnell Suggs-Atlanta Voice reporter

July 6th, 2010
12:46 pm

Shaq will undoubtebly make for bigger crowds but I agree with Mr. Bradley’s “Moses Malone theory”. The Hawks will not be better than 4th best in the East regardless who they sign or trade for this summer.

The Real JC

July 6th, 2010
12:46 pm

Well, looks like someone stole my handle. Guess I should post more often.

I might have missed this if someone said it in the 150something comments before me, but Shaq is good for business.

We’ve said it time and again, this city’s basketball fans are about names. That’s why the Hawks didn’t sell out when playing Duncan and the Spurs when they were bagging titles, but still get their panties in a twist every time Kobe comes to town.

Shaq will put butts in seats and jerseys on backs, even if he doesn’t perform anything more than role player duties off the bench. He’s a name people in Atlanta have heard of, and will help ASG will some of Shaq’s salary back in ticket and jersey sales.

Bishop

July 6th, 2010
12:46 pm

Bring in The Big Crunk!

Washed Up

July 6th, 2010
12:47 pm

Paying millions for washed up, lazy players with an attitude like Shaq? Brilliant!!! That should produce an nba title! The hawks management–on top of it baby!

i_am_soulstar

July 6th, 2010
12:49 pm

Robyn,

The Real JC

July 6th, 2010
12:54 pm

Also, is Shaq really a worse option than Randolph Morris, Jason Collins, Joe Smith or the #31 pick? Wasn’t the point of selling the second round pick in order to sign veteran help at the 5? It doesn’t get much more veteran than Shaq.

Timmy

July 6th, 2010
12:56 pm

Sign Shaq, then package him, Bibby, and Marvin for a 2nd round pick in next year’s draft. Then, trade the 2nd round pick for financial considerations.

tremaine

July 6th, 2010
12:56 pm

Al Horford can not guard Dwight Howard. Shaq can at least put a body on Howard and slow him down. I think it is good move to bring in Shaq. As for Josh Smith. He can be a slasher. Shaq is a great passer.

Wolverine

July 6th, 2010
12:56 pm

Mark Bradley you are truly entertaining. You know how to get a rise out of the Hawks faithful. But the true is the Hawks have glaring needs for a PG,C, and a Experience Leader. Now Shaq is passed his prime, but he could give us a good 15 mins a game and some locker room leadership / presence. This move doesnt bother me that much, but we do need an experience PG that would lead. Tony Parker? Chris Paul?
I know they are pipe dreams especially the latter but Hawks fans need to understand that how we are built we will not win a title. Now is the time to make a move for a good pg and yes I would trade Josh Smith to get one.

The Real JC

July 6th, 2010
12:57 pm

@Washed up – at least they’re spending money and taking risks, not something you’d expect to hear in the same sentence as ASG.

Navigator

July 6th, 2010
1:00 pm

Can’t jump, no longer score inside, can’t hit free throws, folks this is about Shaq going for the best pay check. Since the Hawks just got finished paying way too much for JJ’s service, why wouldn’t they want an over the hill center?

HawkKingBibby

July 6th, 2010
1:02 pm

M.B. All Shaq has to do is drink one of those 5 hour energys before each game. Give one to Smoove as well so he wont stand there and watch Orlando scope up loose balls and rebounds under his nose while he pouts. Who would you use the Hawks MLE on MB?

i_am_soulstar

July 6th, 2010
1:06 pm

Narrow minded blogging makes me sad. I’m not even fan of Shaq. In fact, that whole thing with he and Gilbert Arenas’ fiancee slightly disgusts me. But still, it’s plain to see how he’d help this team as a back-up.

JR1967

July 6th, 2010
1:08 pm

Thanks Mark for those “wonderful” memories of the Hawks losing to the Bucks in the 1989 Playoffs-the same Bucks team that was led by the likes of Fred Roberts and Brad Lohaus. To go further, they won Game 5 of the first round here at the old Omni building after the Hawks won all 5-6 games they played in the regular season.

The Real JC

July 6th, 2010
1:09 pm

In case everyone was wondering, Shaq would get around $5.8 for the MLE. Which would place him in between Marvin Williams and Mike Bibby’s salaries. He made $20 million last season.

First, he is not a huge financial burden for the Hawks. Secondly, his decrease in salary clearly establishes his place as a role player on the Hawks, not a star.

Finally, you can’t teach 7-1 and 325 lbs. Just ask Al Horford.

in the NICK of time

July 6th, 2010
1:14 pm

i suggest we go ahead and get the BIG BUZZARD shirts printed , because there aren’t many cactus in Atlanta they don’t seem to do real well in cement. and all the big diesel engines have to bypass ATL so it don’t look good for the BIG BUZZARD at this stage of his career, which means he will probably be on the roster before long

joseph killeen

July 6th, 2010
1:17 pm

mark i agree man completely me and a buddy of mine were talkin about this whole shaq hawk thing and we both said shaq is a giant risk i mean he would give atlanta a big man but i like seeing big al out their horford is much more capable for the job he may be undersized but he is a match up problem and shaq has injury issues heres a tip HAWKS STAY AWAY FROM SHAQFU

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
1:21 pm

@ Mark Bradley & Hawksnation. Instead of stirring a hornets nest on what Shaq has left, why aren’t you writing about how we get absolutely nothing from ZaZa & no energy whatsoever from our bench. I also don’t see you saying the same things about Joe Smith, though a solid vet he has also seen better days. This team needs another presence inside & an additional experienced veteran. There is no big man help out there, that’s going to fall in our laps. As for the Horford critics, he’s a solid young guy out of the Kendrick Perkins mode ( just a bit undersized ), he just needs more seasoning & the right coaching. Plus I didn’t see the media complaining when Perkins along with an aging Rasheed & the Celts destroyed the Cavs. People do not understand that with these guys signing for the maxx contracts there is no money left on the books to make any aggressive moves. I say get something that we will at least get a return on at this point. I pray that we do get full value out of Joe, because we have got nothing out of recently signed contracts; Bibby, Marvin, & Za Za have not earned the money awarded. Hawks fans seem so delusional sometimes, faced with this ownership & the young core we have in place, we better try anything to progress instead regressing. Because if the latter happens, we are gonna have one heck of a fire sale !!! And for the record that 88-89 team was coached by Fratello ( need I say more ), and for those of us who remember even with talent, that team had no direction much like your present 09-10 Hawks ( 2 all-stars on that roster Nique & Moses ala Horford & Joe ). Moses averaged 20.2 ppg- 12.0 rpg- 1.3 bpg Theus 15.8 ppg- 4.7 apg- 1.3 spg Doc 13.6 ppg- 6.9 apg- 2.4 spg & Nique 26 ppg- 6.9 rpg- 2.6 apg . Plus you had Battle, Levingston, & Carr contributing major pts. off the bench. I’m sorry Mark the problem was not Big Mo but little Fratello !!!

TampaGator

July 6th, 2010
1:21 pm

Pro (self) basketball…what is that? Shaq…is that a hip hop dance? Hawks…that has something to do with people in congress, right? What a bunch of dribble the NBA is…no pun intended!

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
1:22 pm

Enter your comments here

TampaGator

July 6th, 2010
1:22 pm

And when does college football practice begin?

YoMommaBrother

July 6th, 2010
1:23 pm

The Hawks need a center period. Shaq is coming off the bench doing spot work. They don’t even have to play him until after the All-Star break. Not to mention Shaq can still score.

If you saw the Orlando series it was Dwight Howard murdering the Hawks all day long. That’s all it boiled down to. He’s tall enough and quick enough to severely bother Al Horford on the defensive end. He’s way stronger than Horford and can post up very low on the block. Howard is also taller so essentially with his athleticism makes Horford contesting any shot impossible.

Shaq will help with these problems. he won’t completely eliminate them but will definitely help a little bit. Dwight cannot push Shaq around on the block or when vying for rebound position. Being able to simply man up with Dwight Howard causes the perimeter to be guarded better. On defense, offensive players are still scared to bring it in to Shaq because he’s still 350 lbs and is not afraid to knock somebody down.

Why did the Celtics smash the Magic? They were able to defend Howard 1 on 1 with big slow Perkins…and they had a significant advantage at PF with KG bodying Rashard Lewis the entire series. Horford at PF would absolutely kill Rashard Lewis.

The Hawks were forced to double team. They knew Howard would get his points but the way he got them was unacceptable. Dunk after Dunk, putbacks…gaining position deep, offensive rebounds…simply put the points were too easy. Shaq will push him out the lane, make him take some hook shots or running floaters and not to mention expend energy.

Shaq to the Hawks would put them over the top in my opinion.

on the other hand

July 6th, 2010
1:24 pm

motivation !
never doubt what motivation can do for a man if shaq is really motivated because kobe has one more title than he does , he might show up in atlanta in shape and dialed in , let him coast the regular season just enough minutes to stay sharp and then unleash him in the playoffs. kinda like doc rivers did with his best players . shaq may be thinking if i get one more title with my third different team i will be remembered better than Kobe .especially if he helps a team like the hawks without a superstar get a title.

d.carter

July 6th, 2010
1:28 pm

Mark you must be smoking again!!! Shaq is still a threat down low and will stop many of the jumpshot ladden lulls that we tend to have…. Shaq still requires a doubleteam and would open up the perimeter for JJ and jamal…. Not to mention the fact that he would allow us to be much more aggressive on the perimeter defensively, 7feet 350 is 7feet 350 no matter how you slice it, the hawks should be aggressively persuing Shaq!!! all of these people on this blog must be hiding under those empty seats in phillips on those tuesday night games against the Wizards!!!! LMAO

ASG you have got to spend money to make money… And all this Shaq off the bench talk means you have apparently not been watching the Hawks, we dont have a low post person on the team!!! AL doesnt have a low post move to speak of, ( needs to turn and face more) Josh is camped out on the 3pt line watching JJ dribble for 20 seconds… I think Shaq wants to be relevant again and would fit great with this team because he is still a matchup problem for every center in the NBA!!! AL would flourish at the 4spot and Josh would then either go to the bench or become a very big 3 moving Marvin to the bench which is where he is probaly most comfortable….. GET REAL PEOPLE

TONE

July 6th, 2010
1:28 pm

when shaq ends up with the celtics and they get doc another championship I want to be the first to second guess myself.

“the hawks should have signed shaq he was there for the taking ” now i am covered

cdog

July 6th, 2010
1:31 pm

overall, the hawks need shaq oneil.moses malone didn’t fail in atlanta, it was the acquisition of reggie theus and the fact that the hawks were a selfish team with a bunch of individuals.what hurt that year. when management got rid of tree rollins and randy wittman,that hurt the team chemistry when reggie theus came aboard. as i recall, shaq has nba champuonships to his credit with much needed experience.mark, don’t even go that with your brainless comments and ideas.you just want to start a debate unneccessarily.on the real side, acquiring shaq would be the missing piece to the frontcourt that the hawks have longed for.even if he doesn’t start, can boster the team to get to the next level.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
1:35 pm

Moses parted the red sea. Shaq will part the blue paint

bravesfanbob

July 6th, 2010
1:46 pm

We will continue to be overmanned in the playoffs against any team who has a dominate center if we don’t have a big body to play the 5. I don’t think Shaq is the answer, but it would allow Horford to move to the 4, and Josh to move to the 3. Both of them would be better suited in those positions, and the team would be able to play better defense because they wouldn’t be double teaming so much down low, and because of this, they could switch from zone to man-to-man often enough to confuse. So I do believe that Shaq would be helpful, but he won’t bring a championship. If we could also send Marvin and either Bibby or Teague along with a draft pick or Jordan Crawford to the Hornets for Chris Paul, the Hawks might be in business. This would fit under the cap, too. Regardless, we need a big, dependable body inside, or we go nowhere in the postseason.

Pay Shaq

July 6th, 2010
1:47 pm

Pay Shaq whatever he wants to come to Atlanta. The hawks need a big name to juice up ticket sales. Plus, Shaq has a lot of connections in the media and in the music industry and the hawks can get a lot more rappers to the game to buy those pricey courtside seats! Shaq–a win win baby!!!

Terrell

July 6th, 2010
1:48 pm

Hey MB, PD said @ 10:46 am there was an article that said Horford wants to play the 4 (PF). Here’s a portion of the excerpt:

J.J. is back now. The Hawks still plan to add more pieces, including a center. Al reiterated his stance that he prefers to play power forward but isn’t making any demands about switching positions.

“I’m fine with [center] but my natural position is obviously the four,” he said.

So since all of us are wrong about AL’s natural postion, is Al wrong too about his position?

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
1:48 pm

1) Shaq almost has nothing left.

Even a diminished Shaquille O’Neal is better than most centers in the league. While he’s not a dominant force, he’s still easily a top 10 center in the NBA. The Cavs were 40 – 13 in the regular season with Shaq in the lineup, a .755 winning percentage. Without him in the lineup, the Cavs were 21 – 8, a .724 winning percentage

Shaq was brought in specifically to try to handle Dwight Howard. In their 1st meeting last year AT ORLANDO, Howard scored 11 points and had 7 rebounds . . . and 5 fouls. Shaq barely played 20 minutes in that game, but was instrumental in seeing Howard pick up 2 quick fouls in the first 3 minutes. Cavs lead wire to wire, and win the game by 9 . . but had 22 point lead at one point in that 4th quarter

2nd meeting . . Cavs win by 11 . . Howard scores 19 points and 11 rebounds . . and has 5 fouls again. Shaq, once again, only plays 19 minutes and scores 10 points and 6 rebounds. Dwight won the head to head battle this time, but still lost the war. The combination of Shaq and Big Z kept Howard from completely dominating the game ( like he does against the Hawks )

3rd meeting . . Magic win by 6 . . Howard has a monster game, 22 points, 16 rebs, 4 blks . . Shaq plays well offensively, scoring 20 points and grabbing 5 rebs in 31 minutes . . but Cleveland loses because Mo Williams and Delonte West collectively shot 3 – 18 FG

4th meeting was a game the Cavs didn’t play Shaq nor Lebron. . . Magic win by 8 . . Howard dominates . . 22 points, 13 rebs, 6 blks.

So Shaq was 2 – 1 vs the Magic in the games that he played in. And only lost the 3rd game because Delonte and Mo couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn.

Mike

July 6th, 2010
1:48 pm

1) Shaq is not the reason Cleveland is losing playoff games. Cleveland continues to surround Lebron with guys that will not step up when it counts. They disappear in the playoffs just like they did in 2008 before Shaq. In 2007, Lebron almost single handedly took down the Pistons in the Eastern Conference finals. Against the Spurs in the Finals, he couldnt do that and they got swept.

2) As for Shaq and the Suns, they missed the playoffs because Nash and Stoudamire were both injured and they were in the West. Their record would have put them 5th in the East.

3) Shaq averages 12 pts per game because his minutes are down to 24 per game. Thats actually a productive average.

4) Horford is not big enough to clog the lane. This has been a consistent problem in the Hawks defense. They have no one that can take charge of the paint. The Hawks consistently leave a wide open lane to drive through, and premiere inside players like Howard destroy them regularly. None of the Hawks have an inside enforcer mentality. Shaq would bring them that option.

Bringing in Shaq to a much more versatile team than Cleveland would be an excellent move.

Shaq Style

July 6th, 2010
1:50 pm

You see this cat Shaq is a bad mother—
Shut your mouth!
But I’m talkin’ about Shaq
Then we can dig it.

MrHughes

July 6th, 2010
1:50 pm

We really need to keep exploring the idea of getting CP3 over here in Atlanta if they want to be in title contention. We passed him up once, We don’t need to pass him up again while he is in discussion to get traded.

Timmy

July 6th, 2010
1:50 pm

Trade proposal: Ship Childress, Mo Evans and Zaza to Denver for Melo. Trade Melo for a 2nd round pick. Trade the pick for financial considerations.

Hawks Rule

July 6th, 2010
1:51 pm

With Joe Johnson and Shaq, the hawks will be hard to beat next year—look for a deep playoff run.

1Hater

July 6th, 2010
1:52 pm

Eh. It’s not a bad move. He’s a big and just as serviceable (if not moreso) than ZaZa. Plus…he’s Shaq. lol Honestly though, I wish the big guy would just retire. I hate seeing him as the complimentary pickle on the side of everyone’s Burger & Fries combo…it’s depressing.

:0(

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
1:53 pm

As for the detractors who say ” The Hawks need to move faster, not slower ” Thats fine in the regular season for wins & profits, but it won’t get it done in the playoffs. The only 2 teams that had an uptempo game was OKC and Phoenix. Phoenix even played more pick n roll, the deeper they advanced. Running the ball sells season tickets, post play & making open shots wins rings.

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
1:57 pm

cdog . . . exactly ( your post at 1:31 ).

Moses wasn’t the damn problem. He was still a 20 point – 10 rebs guy in in those first 2 years in ATL. But those late 80s Hawk teams lost their commitment to defense. The loss of Tree Rollins took away a defensive presence in the middle that was never replaced. Moses was ALWAYS known as an offensive center. And he did his job well in those first 2 years.

But we were not a tough enough team defensively to win games in that fashion ( much like what you see out of the current Hawks ). The Milwaukee team that year, was one of the best defensive teams in the league. And they took it to us and ended up pulling of the upset, although it was only a mild upset.

And it didn’t help us one bit that Kevin Willis missed the entire 88 – 89 season that Bradley refers to, because of injury.

Chef Mentuer

July 6th, 2010
2:03 pm

Who cares what you do with SOOOOOOOOOOOOVE. JJ is gonna take all the shots anyway. LETS GO ISO JOE!

bill

July 6th, 2010
2:05 pm

What’s the worry? JJ is going to bring the FAs to the ATL…uh???

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
2:10 pm

@ northcyde Moses was never the problem. True we played some tough teams during Fratello tenure Bird in 87′ Isiah 88′ & then the Bucks. The problem is none of those talented teams ever had an identity. Can anyone tell me what the Hawks identity was under Fratello.

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
2:14 pm

2. At this stage of his career, Shaq isn’t as good a center as Al Horford.

SHAQ’S PER 36 MINUTE numbers last year

18.5 ppg
10.3 rebs
1.8 blks
2.3 asst

57% FG
50% FT ( 6.6 attempts . . made 3.3 of them )

HORFORD’S PER 36 MINUTE numbers last year

14.5 ppg
10.1 rebs
1.2 blks
2.4 asst

55% FG
79% FT ( 3.4 attempts . . made 2.7 of them )

************************

SHAQ’S DEFENSIVE PER 48 MINUTE numbers

opponents eFG%: 46.8%
opponents iFG%: 47% ( iFG = inside FG percentage . . i.e. – defense around the rim )

opponents PPG: 15.5
opponents PER: 14.2

HORFORD’S DEFENSIVE PER 48 MINUTE numbers

opponents eFG%: 50.6%
opponents iFG%: 60% ( this is the reason why people complain about Horford’s defense . . the 60% number is about as high of a number that you’ll see out of all centers for the iFG% )

opponents PPG: 16.3
opponents PER: 16.5

20-30 Per Game

July 6th, 2010
2:15 pm

as part of his max contract, Joe Johnson has likely a guarantee that he gets a kobe bryant type role in the offense and 20-30 shots per game. That will limit the need to bring in shaq, since the whole offense will basically be isos for joe j.

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
2:20 pm

Redd . . I agree. Moses wasn’t the problem. I guess you could call the Hawks a “running team”, especially with the change of pace that Spud brought into a game.

But that should be proof that running has never won a team a damn thing, unless they had a 6-9 Hall of Fame PG and a Hall of Fame C with an unstoppable hook shot ( who was still one of the best centers in the league at age 39 . . even though he wasn’t the focal point of his team anymore. )

People want the Hawks to run so bad around here. But running ( historically ) does not = championships.

Defense = championships, for the most part.

And even that team with the 6-9 Hall of Fame PG . . and the old Hall of Fame C, was a top 10 defensive team during that era, which fueled their running game.

ASHCAN.

July 6th, 2010
2:32 pm

Ok all this negative talk about what shaq cant do then why don’t the hawks and its complaining fans don’t get shaq and still lose.This team is not championship caliber with or without shaq(but a tad bit better with him)so whats all the negative fuss about adding shaq?

Peter

July 6th, 2010
2:33 pm

Mark there is little doubt the Hawks need a legit center, and turn Al back to his real position, Power Forward…….the playoffs proved that.

I agree Shaq is a waste of time and money, but hey JJ was a waste of money at the signing price, but we must still live with it…….I don’t see the Hawks getting better without getting rid of Bibby, Marvin, and getting a real center.

T.J.

July 6th, 2010
2:37 pm

I know LD is a rookie coach but didn’t he assistant coach with the Lakers when Shaq played for them way back?

Drew

July 6th, 2010
2:38 pm

I disagree. Shaq has some injuries last year so his minutes per game were down, thus so was his productivity. Compare his previous years to last year you will see he had more minutes when he had more production. Even with his numbers last year he is still better than most NBA players. Also, to argue he is too old is senseless as he was in his mid-30’s already when he won an NBA championship with the Heat merely 4 years ago. We can say no to switching Horford’s position and keeping the same formula for the Hawks and continue to settle for being second round jokes or we can ATTEMPT to change for the better. Signing O`Neal would be a smart move.

Ace

July 6th, 2010
2:48 pm

Mark

Why should the Hawks take a chance on Shaq, when they can just put the same team on the floor as last year, right? . . .

Tony Parker is getting old. Hawks should stay way the hell away from him too.

Let’s just stick with the status quo at Center and PG

Ace

July 6th, 2010
2:50 pm

Troy Glaus is washed up – what were the Braves thinking for signing him for $2 million?

Shaquille

July 6th, 2010
2:54 pm

That Mark Bradley guy was good back in the day, but I don’t think he’s got much left in the tank. The AJC should steer clear of signing that guy to a long-term contract.

gcs

July 6th, 2010
2:55 pm

Hawks should trade Joe Johnson…and Larry Drew.

.

Timmy

July 6th, 2010
2:59 pm

New trade proposal: Marvin to the Celtics or Lakers for a championship ring. Who says you can’t buy a championship?

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
2:59 pm

3. If they add Shaq, the Hawks would weaken themselves at THREE positions

With Shaq on the team, you do one of two things:

1) you ask Shaq to come off the bench, to solidify the 2nd team . . . and to play a little more minutes in games vs bigger centers.

If Shaq does this, you can essentially play him against the other team’s 2nd string center for a good chunk of the game. The bench last year, outside of Jamal Crawford, was inconsistent and bordered on being flat out horrible the entire year. If Jamal’s shot was off, the entire bench looked like garbage.

Add Shaq to the mix, along with some of the additions and re-shuffling that we could do, and your 2nd team could look like this:

PG: Bibby ( assuming that Teague is the starter )
G: Crawford
F: Evans
PF: Zaza
C: Shaq

That’s a veteran 2nd unit that you could throw at teams, that could be very effective in those minutes that you need JJ, Smoove, and Horford to rest. Shaq would instantly become our best low post scorer, and a guy who could pick up fouls on frontline people. His presence would also open up the perimeter for our shooters. You’d still have Crawford being the scoring threat, but Shaq would give the 2nd unit a legit post presence. And Zaza would still be the energy/garbage man. We’d go from having one of the worst benches in the league, to one of the best.

***********************

2) you ask Josh Smith to come off the bench, and play a Lamar Odom like role on the frontline, while still playing him major minutes.

While some may not like this, including Smoove, this would instantly balance out the team in those first few minutes of the 1st and 3rd quarters. Smoove is the guy out of position, because he’s such a hybrid player, that you really can’t play him at SF, and he doesn’t play PF tough enough at times. But add Shaq on the team, and you could essentially put a conventional, balanced lineup on the floor to start each half.

PG – Teague
G – Johnson
F – Marvin
PF – Horford
C – Shaq

With that lineup to start games, you’d have complete balance across the board, from the potential penetrating and dishing PG in Teague . . to the all-around, do it all guy in JJ . . to the hopefully good spot up shooter in Marvin . . to the solid offensively and defensively guy in Horford . . to the imposing physical presence in the middle in Shaq.

Play that group together until the 1st timeout of the 1st and 3rd quarters . . and make the sub for Smoove and Jamal.

PG – Teague
G – JAMAL
F – Johnson
PF – SMOOVE
C – Horford

You give Shaq his rest . . and now you accelerate the pace of the game instantly by putting 2 extremely fast players into the game in Smoove and Jamal. Adding Shaq would give us the flexibility to play any style of basketball we wanted.

By the start of the 2nd quarter, you could have this lineup into the game.

PG – Bibby
G – Crawford
F – Evans
PF – Smoove
C – Shaq

Instead of Zaza being the “energy guy”, it now is Smoove that’s the energy guy, alongside Shaq.

And at the end of games, you can still put this lineup on the floor if it’s in the best interest of the Hawks to do so:

PG – Teague
G – Crawford
F – Johnson
PF – Smoove
C – Horford

If that’s the group that ends up being the best lineup to close out games, then you could do that.

*********************

The fact is that Al Horford and Josh Smith tend to struggle against bigger frontlines. This is a FACT . . not FICTION. It’s not a coincidence that Horford only averaged 11 pts and 8 rebs and shot a horrible 43% FG vs Cleveland. It’s not a coincidence that Smoove averaged a decent 14 pts and 8 rebs, but only shot a horrible 40% FG against Orlando.

Horford’s 5 worst FG% performances this season:

Dallas: 34.6%
San Antonio: 40%
Minnesota: 41.4%
Cleveland: 42.9%
Miami: 48.5%

Smoove’s 5 worst FG% performances this season:

San Antonio: 32%
Oklahoma City: 39.6%
Toronto: 39.2%
Orlando: 39.6%
LA Lakers: 40.9%

And with Shaq here, all you would be asking him nto do, is give us 20 – 25 solid minutes a game in the middle. Your minutes at the PF and C position could easily look like this:

PF: Horford ( 15 ) – Smith ( 33 )
C: Shaq ( 22 ) – Horford ( 18 ) – Zaza ( 8 )

This would still give Horford minutes at center, while also allowing him to play PF. And there would be NO NEED TO EVER PLAY JOSH SMITH AT THE 3. EVER.

Whether if Smith started the game, or came off the bench, he could still log 30+ minutes a game, just like Jamal Crawford did last year.

Weaken the Hawks at 3 positons? Ish . . it may STRENGTHEN 3 positions.

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
3:07 pm

Right on it @northcyde. As stated in my earlier post MB’s saying we should get faster rather than slower well hello, Phoenix & Dallas has been running like olympic sprinters for years. Every single year in the playoffs they get exposed for what they really are ” non-defensive teams “. The only good thing that comes out of running is ticket sales. I feel for Dirk & Nash, running will eventually catch up to them, body wise. Just because a team is young doesn’t mean they’re greyhounds, like I said if you have the right coaching in place Horford’s defensive game will round itself into shape. I already know about his season’s defensive stats, but season stats can’t teach playoff intensity or know how. Which is the whole point about Shaq we are not looking for pie in the sky stats like 20 ppg &12 rpg we are hoping that Kobe’s new jewelry & a chance to contribute to a young team on the verge, will kinder the fire that needs to be lit under this directionless team !!!!

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
3:11 pm

4. Even if he says he’s willing to take a lesser role, he’s still Shaquille O’Neal.

Maybe the ONLY valid concern that Bradley has. There’s little doubt that Shaq is an imposing personality, and might intimidate a 1st year coach in Larry Drew. But if Drew can get through to him, and use him effectively, this won’t be a concern.

You’d also have to wonder what kind of effect Shaq would have on the locker room from a leadership standpoint. Oh I forgot . . . our leader is seen to be Al Horford. So the question is . . . do you want Horford to emerge as the leader of the Hawks . . . or a 5-time champion that will end up being in the Hall of Fame being it?

Also, with his experience, what could Shaq teach a young guy like Horford about playing center? And does going up against Shaq in practice make Horford a much better, and more importantly, a much TOUGHER player in the long run? Going up against Shaq would force Horford to elevate his game, you would think.

From a public relations standpoint, adding Shaq would be an instant box office success . . at least initially. Everybody on these blogs know my distaste for about 30% – 40% of the Atlanta fan base who are nothing but bandwaggoners. How they routinely complain about the team, but make a plethora of excuses as to why they don’t go to the games ( even when the team is playing well ) . . unless a superstar rolls into town.

Well if you add one of the most popular players in the league to the squad, maybe those bandwaggoners would come out to more Hawk games, and actually cheer for US . . instead of the OTHER TEAM. You would have to expect that the initial excitement of seeing Shaq in a Hawks uniform would see an instant spike in ticket sales ( both season and walk-up ).

People are indifferent about Joe Johnson ( I’m not ), but the majority of ATL fans are. Some of them flat out don’t like him at all. They like Josh Smith, but his immaturity drives them crazy. They love Al Horford, but he doesn’t have a superstar-like offensive game yet.

So why not add Shaq to the mix, if not for anything, but to increase exposure and revenue.

SkyWalker

July 6th, 2010
3:13 pm

I am appauled at the folks who think the Hawks need Shaq. Think of this. Al Horford is playing his center position just as good as Wilt Chamberlain did when Wilt was Al’s age. That is how good Al Horford has improved in my opinion. When I look at Al Horford, he reminds me of a youthful Wilt Chamberlain and Big “Al” is playing equally as good as Wilt did when wilt was Al’s age. To the surprise of many people, Al Horford is destined to become a hall of famer as long as he continues to improve and continues to be as ambitious as he always has. The sky is the limit for Al Horford in terms of where he ends up. I cant say the same for many other Hawks but Big Al is a keeper and a great centerpiece for the Hawks.

Status quo

July 6th, 2010
3:15 pm

Try to imagine the Hawks in game 7 of the nba finals. Who’s taking that last shot to win the game with everything on the line – who’s our Jordan/Kobe/Bird – our clutch player? Joe Johnson? Jamal Crawford? J-Smoove? I can’t see it.

Who’s going to fill up the lane and get that blocked shot or huge rebound in the final minute that wraps up the championship? Sure, Horford is capable, but what if he gets blocked out? Who else is going to have that intensity to provide a game-stopper on someone like Pau Gasol, or Dwight Howard? ZaZa? I don’t think so.

I’m just saying, it’s hard to imagine this team as a championship-caliber team. The status quo is not good enough. Sund needs to make moves to get this team some proven winners, or the Hawks are just going to remain a second-tier team.

I say take a chance on Shaq. Can it really hurt? I’d rather see them take a chance and fail than watch another second-round playoff beating.

Status quo

July 6th, 2010
3:17 pm

Here’s another thing. By the Hawks staying the same, they will be worse relative to the rest of the Eastern Conference as teams like the Knicks, Bulls, Heat, Nets of even maybe the Cavs making moves to better their teams.

Roger

July 6th, 2010
3:18 pm

It comes down to this: Can Shaq guard Howard one on one for 20 min a game. If not, forget him. If so, Horford will be fine at PF. His inside game, especially, the little floating hooks and turnarounds improved last year and he is only getting better. Trade JSmith for a true SF (someone will take him for his D-fence, and we’ll throw Marvin in as a bonus), or just tell him he will become the 7th man of the year if he ever takes a three pointer.

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
3:18 pm

@Skywalker WTF Comparing Al to one of the greatest centers of all time. Hey I’m an Al & Hawks fan do or die, but I’m also drug-free

Daddy Long Long

July 6th, 2010
3:20 pm

Mark I don’t think Big Al wanted to guard Dwight “Da Beast” Howard by himself…LOLOLOL

Just rewind some of those playoff games vs. the Magic on Tivo, and remind ourselves why this team needs a Center. It’s on game tape, we got RAPED!!

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
3:23 pm

5. This has Moses Malone written all over it.

As has been noted earlier in this thread, the Hawks not winning with Moses Malone, had very little to do with Moses Malone being on the team. Moses did his dang job. The other guys didn’t.

And the injury to Kevin Willis ( I think in pre-season ) that sidelined him for the entire year, was a major blow to the frontline depth of the Hawks. Instead of being able to start Kevin Willis, they had to start Cliff Levingston or Antoine Carr. And without Tree Rollins in the mix to play center, the Hawks essentially had to rely on Jon Koncak to play backup center, instead of Tree . . or Kevin Willis ( who could also play center ). Carr would end up being our backup C for most of the year.

Losing the 7 foot Kevin Willis was a significant blow to the Hawks championship aspirations. Yet, the Hawks still managed to win 52 games . . mainly because Moses stepped up and played like a MAN

20.2 ppg
11.8 rebs
1.2 blks
1.4 asst

49% FG
79% FT

LOL . . . but Bradley would lead you to believe that the addition of Moses didn’t help the Hawks . . and even hurt the Hawks. Not even close.

It was the fact that this team was a somewhat inconsistent defensive team that killed them. And the loss of a major rebounder like Willis didn’t help one bit.

Ted Striker

July 6th, 2010
3:25 pm

Mark — On all points, I absolutely agree.

northcyde

July 6th, 2010
3:28 pm

Writers like Bradley write like casual fans . . . instead of a hardcore journalist who could at least do a LITTLE RESEARCH into a situation, before writing off the top of his head. How he could mention “this could have Moses Malone written all over it”, without telling any of you guys about the injury to a key projected starter like Kevin Willis, is just sloppy writing/blogging.

But this is not the first time he’s done this . . . and it won’t be the last.

ATL MUSIC SCENE

July 6th, 2010
3:38 pm

if we get shaq we may get interest from multi-millionaire musicians to buy the team and hire a real GM , that enough is reason to roll out the red carpet for the BIG HAWKTUS

Mystikal

July 6th, 2010
3:41 pm

AL HORFORD IS BETTER THAN JOSH SMITH! Both are good players that produce, but ppl get caught up with the highlight reel with Josh. Smoove is prob top 5 in the league talent wise, problem though is that 90% of what he does is off of talent. He’s seriously lacking in the skill departement. In 6 yrs, he still cannot shoot, dribble, guard on perimeter or make post moves. Because he is such a talent with his length and hops (and he has Big Al backing him up) he still gets good numbers.
Now when Horford came he automatically put hawks over the top into the playoffs. He has a winner’s mentality and even playing out of position is a top 10 center in the league. Al is a great passer, defender, team guy, mid-range shooter, and has post moves when he gets the opportunity. Even considering both are undersized for their positions, If Al and Josh switched positions Al would still be successful whereas Josh would be in foul trouble often.
Believe it or not, i’m not trying to hate on Josh and I like him for us, but if we’re serious about winning Al has what it takes; while we may be waiting many more years for Josh to put it all together.

Big Guy

July 6th, 2010
3:45 pm

Possible nicknames for Shaq if he becomes an Atlanta Hawk:

Stone Mountain
Martin Luther Dunk
Round Mound of Scattered-Smothered-Covered
Krispy King
The Big Peanut
The Big Peach
The Georgia Dome
Shaq-lanta
Shaq de Leon
The Terminal
MARTA Bus
The Package (sponsored by UPS)

JoD

July 6th, 2010
3:47 pm

Mark, your comment no. 5 about Moses Malone…that was the year Kevin Willis broke his foot playing pick up basketball at Morehouse. This was the reason the Hawks didn’t advance not Moses Malone…Can somebody names three, two centers available via free agency that’s a better upgrade at the five position than Shaq? I thought not.

Unleaded

July 6th, 2010
3:48 pm

Come on….Is anyone really surprised that the Hawks are really considering bringing Shaq in. Hello….these are the same people who offered Joe- No-Show-Johnson a MAX contract. Give them a few days….. they will probavbly call Jon Koncak and offer him a deal.

TONE

July 6th, 2010
3:53 pm

I vote for
The big peanut

TONE

July 6th, 2010
3:54 pm

koncak was the man remember that game when he scored a basket and almost got a rebound

Time Out

July 6th, 2010
3:57 pm

And Joe Johnson does? Work as a Hawk?

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
3:58 pm

Round Mound of Scattered-Smothered-Covered is the best, but too long to really stick

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
4:01 pm

5 reasons Shaq would work:
1. The Hawks need a center, and he’s among the best available.
2. He will sell tickets
3. He will bring a fun atmosphere to the locker room (unlike Joe the stiff)
4. He’s a proven winner
5. He’s mentally tough and can get in other players heads (like Dwight Howard)

iCECOLD

July 6th, 2010
4:03 pm

Man… every center in the world think they a power forward. But on the hawks team. They both to the same exact thing. Except on defense. But the hawks switched defensively so much. That didn’t matter either. Bibby was guarding centers sometimes on defense. So… horford. Stay where u at. We keep sayin we need a center, we need a pour guard, but really, we need a small forward. The only true week link on the hawks starting five. Cuz Marvin is not getting it. If we get rudy gay in a trade for Marvin bobby and childress, we would have one of the best starting five ans thats a true championship contending team !!

Fire woody…. lol

oil salesman

July 6th, 2010
4:03 pm

The big IR !!!!!!! injured reserve he is 78 years old you know

Mario

July 6th, 2010
4:08 pm

you all are forgetting that shaq is only interested because the hawks need someone to guard Dwight Howard!… losing josh would hurt defensively but we could bring in a all star point guard….. imagine,
1. Chris Paul
2. Joe Johnson
3. Marvin Williams
4. Al Horford
5. Big Diesel
6 Man. Jamal Crawford

aaron

July 6th, 2010
4:12 pm

mark you said that horford does not think hes a 4? he has said repeatedly in interviews that he does want another big man so that he can move over to the 4- his more natural position- we bring in brendan haywood/ tyson chandler/ andris biedrins- move al to 4- trade josh smith for a small forward

Old School

July 6th, 2010
4:14 pm

I heard Charles Barkley’s interested in coming back—he can pound the boards. Also, what about Artis Gilmore? He’s 7-2 and has a great afro!!!

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
4:19 pm

Just another AJC blog, writer posts it, & doesn’t stick around when it gets ripped to shreds !!!!!

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
4:19 pm

Can everyone get off this CP3 kick. New Orleans has stated (according to ESPN and Yahoo) that they will not trade Paul under any conceivable circumstances. Please stop offering useless “let’s explore getting CP3″ comments. I wish it could happen, but it just won’t PERIOD.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
4:21 pm

Amen, Dr. Phil. CP3 is a pipe-dream at best

Mr. Phil

July 6th, 2010
4:24 pm

Wait. I am understanding this correctly. There are people here who think Shaq can guard Dwight Howard?

SWAT Native

July 6th, 2010
4:30 pm

Keep in mind that the Bucks came very close to knocking the Hawks out of the playoffs using Kurt Thomas as their center. Do you think that Shaq can bring more to the table at this point than Kurt?

DawginLex

July 6th, 2010
5:12 pm

If they want an enforcer, sign Rasheed Wallace. Shaq won’t come off the bench, Rasheed will. Honestly, they would be better off without either.

Fonz

July 6th, 2010
5:13 pm

‘Sheed is retiring

EnOn

July 6th, 2010
5:50 pm

Mark, I’d like to just point out an ignored fact: these Hawks are nowhere near contention as it is. The reason Shaq was a risk for the Cavs last year is because they were honest-to-God competing for a title. What are we risking? Coming in 4th in the East and losing in the second round again, if we’re lucky? I say if a 4 time champ wants to come show our big men how to play like big men (without flopping everywhere, ZaZa), let’s not just turn him away haphazardly. Plus, would the butts-in-the-seats alone not be worth the experiment?

We Need Tree

July 6th, 2010
6:17 pm

Does anyone know what Drew’s scheme/strategy is? Is there any indication the Hawks will play harder for Drew?

gene

July 6th, 2010
6:28 pm

Shaq could be a good thing. He would need to come off the bench to spell Horford. He can still rebound, and eat up space. He would also free up the perimeter for our shooters, because he can still demand a double team. If used properly, he could be the missing piece of the puzzle. As far as past debacles go, it wasn’t the player as much as the way they were used. Shaq can’t be the go to guy, but he can play a significant role for the Hawks.

Drew

July 6th, 2010
8:15 pm

Why not Shaq? He had less production last year because he had LESS minutes. You say he is 38 and this is a factor? He was in his mid-30’s just a few years ago when he won the championship (one of his 4) for the Miami Heat. Honestly why not take the chance… otherwise we will have another 2nd round mediocre team? If people are content with another 2nd round sweep for the 3rd year in a row and mediocrity like Johnson and Horford than keep the status quo train rollin….

atownhawk23

July 6th, 2010
8:22 pm

Two things that won’t work. Oh yeah Mike Woodson is gone already. OOH I know what will work bring back J-Chill. The thought of Bringing Shaq is making me cold. lol.

#GETONMYLEVEL

atownhawk23 aka I Love JJ

July 6th, 2010
8:24 pm

I almost forgot. Nooooooooo. He gonna try take JJ’s shine. Oh yeah, how can you forget about Joe and his juicy pay raise.

JD

July 6th, 2010
9:15 pm

Well. Who else are they going to get for a mid-level exception that would contribute?

If Shaq won’t work, who will?

ReddJonn68

July 6th, 2010
9:16 pm

You have the Haves & the Have Nots in the NBA right now, we fall under the Have Nots if we don’t address our glaring weaknesses that were pointed out so harshly by the Magic

Chris D'

July 6th, 2010
9:19 pm

We already got Dennis Scott calling the games along with Shaq lets get Penny Hardaway in here and see if the new Magic can beat the old Magic.

And who said a really big free agent would never think about signing in Atlanta. First Jason Collins then Shaq they just keep getting bigger.

killerj

July 6th, 2010
9:23 pm

You,ve gotta be kidding,what a presence inside,could be the difference to the finals,they can,t do it with what they have,big men draw double teams inside.They get Shaq, I attend my first game since Mike “Stinger” Glenn roamed the floors of the Omni!

Football Fan

July 6th, 2010
9:30 pm

Agreed. For the first time in history I agree with Mark Bradley.

G

July 6th, 2010
9:36 pm

Does your “NBA MAN” realize Shaq has also won a few titles, and made some coaches look pretty good?

James

July 6th, 2010
9:40 pm

It doesent matter to me that Shaq is not beter than Al Horford.What matters is if he can contribute more than Randoulph Morris.I’d have to say yes!

earldaddy

July 6th, 2010
9:59 pm

Mark, what free agent center would you want to see the Hawks acquire? Haywood? What about a viable trade. Who do you want them to look at? And why are they better than Shaq?

harry the hawk

July 6th, 2010
10:03 pm

Yshoo has already saddled the Hawks with the worst deal in NBA history for signing JJ for 6 at 119 mill…..are they trying to solidify first AND second place by signing Shaq?

Time to cut losses and get rid of Sund, as he clearly has no new ideas or solutions….

Timing is perfect–lots of top-notch GM’s sittin’ on the sidelines

DHunt

July 6th, 2010
10:04 pm

Didnt Cleveland bring Shaq in to play against Howard in the playoffs? They never saw Howard, and they got slap out coached by Doc Rivers which probably had a lot to do with the coach getting the axe. Maybe Clevelan lost more games this year because they were a little too much iso-LaBron and the supporting cast didn’t step up at all around him. Blaming the Cavs problems on Shaq at this point seems a rather frail argument.

For all Zaza’s hustle he is a liability on offense. I swear I got to the point where every time somebody passed him the ball I just chalked up another turnover on the scoresheet. Dude has hands of stone and the vertical leap of a platypus. Shaq will be an instant upgrade.

@Northcyde, Interesting lineup scenarios

Roland

July 6th, 2010
10:16 pm

YOU HAVE TO ADMIT WE WILL SELL MORE TICKETS. MARK BRADLEY HATE THE IDEA AS MUCH AS YOU WANT YOU KNOW YOU WILL NOT MISS ONE HAWKS GAME ALONG WITH A MILLION PEOPLE IN ATLANTA IF SHAQ COMES HERE. THIS IS WHAT THIS CITY NEEDS TO WAKE ITSELF UP!!!!!

Barton Bright

July 6th, 2010
10:33 pm

If dramatically over-paying Joe Johnson doesn’t prove that Hawks’ management is inept, signing Shaq would clinch it.

THE REAL DEAL

July 6th, 2010
10:48 pm

come on guys tradin josh can be one of the worse mistakes the hawks can ever make if anyone heeds to be traded its marvin or he can come off the bench behind j-chill if he decides to come back…the shaq to the hawks is an ok move only if he comes off the bench behind AL.. we need a dwight howard stopper plain and simple shaq or brandon haywood (before miami gets him)would be a great fit…HEY MARK HAVE YOU HEARD ANYTHING ON JOSH CHILLDRES YET????

Chuck Bagley

July 7th, 2010
12:13 am

It makes just as much sense as signing JJ to a MAX contract

Colorado bulldog

July 7th, 2010
12:50 am

This is not like Moses Malone. When Doc passed the ball into Moses it never came out. And then Nique and Willis and choke Theus did the same. We essentially a starting unit of Doc and 4 ball hogs.

If Hawks are thinking bringing him in as a starter, then no. But I say Shaq can come and be a force off the bench. I’d sign him in a NY minute. He would give you way more than Morris ever has in his best dreams. We suddenly would have a big body that other teams would have to respect. You don’t have to start him because he doesn’t have that much in his tank and would slow us down but man when he’s on the floor with Horford and Smith or JJ and Crawford – look out! Okay Cavs didn’t improve… so what. They didn’t win with him either. Hawks have nothing to lose because w/o him we are not going past 2nd round. With Shaq Daddy, we might not… but we could.

JK

July 7th, 2010
12:53 am

Shaq at $4 mil for one year as a 10-15 minute bench center. Golden. Otherwise, no point.

Josh

July 7th, 2010
1:04 am

good points mark bradley, but i would still take shaq. horford is clearly still the starter, but bring shaq in sparingly to punish smaller centers when needed.

ntrigue

July 7th, 2010
1:09 am

Mark do you think Luis Scola or Tyrus Thomas would be a good pickup for backup to Al?

StingerSplash

July 7th, 2010
1:14 am

Had the Hawks signed Moses and stopped right there, they might have been a force to be reckoned with.
But adding Theus gave the Hawks not one, not two but three shoot first and ask questions later players — Moses, Reggie and Nique. Doc Rivers, Bob Cousy and Tiny Archibald couldn’t have kept those three happy.

AG7

July 7th, 2010
1:58 am

northcyde just RAPED Mark Bradley

cdog

July 7th, 2010
2:47 am

mark, shaq now is better than za za pachalia, jason collins, joe smith and randolph morris or current center on the roster.a fool can see we need shaq on our team for next season

CO22

July 7th, 2010
3:14 am

Mark, you can’t be serious by mentioning that Dwight did not have a 30 point game. HE CONTROLLED AND OWNED THE PAINT. If for some reason we don’t sign Shaq Fu then who? I agree he is over the hill we NEED a big body to bang Dwight.

Atlanta Hawks - Page 47 - iSTORYA.NET

July 7th, 2010
5:44 am

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JJ

July 7th, 2010
6:24 am

I won’t argue with you as to whether or not the Hawks should acquire Shaq, but I will argue with your assertion that Horford is better at center than he would be at power forward. That is a ludicrous thought, yet you seem to think it is a given. I guess every scout in the league is an idiot if we are to believe you, Mark.

Centers camp out in the paint and shoot baby hooks and dunk. See Howard, Dwight. Power forwards play in the paint but also extend their game to 12 feet. See Malone, Karl. One of Horford’s greatest assets is that 12 foot jumper. It improves every year. He needs to be able to keep that in his game. Putting him as a true center will pretty much take that away.

It isn’t about whether Shaq or any other center available is better than Horford. It is about whether Shaq or any other center is good enough to put Marvin on the bench (or force the Hawks to trade him) so that this starting lineup can look a little more like the rest of the NBA.

Not having a true center has held the Hawks back more than anything over the past 3 years in my opinion.

Nate ArchiBALL

July 7th, 2010
7:22 am

Thanks to ReddJonn68, JoD and Northcyde for stating the facts about the Moses Malone, Reggie Theus era. Fratello had become one of those NBA coaches who wanted to call every play rather than pick his spots for play calling. Very talented team with a very insecure coach. Fratello was OK sharing the spotlight with ‘Nique but sharing it with Moses, Reggie and Spud was a major issue. Fratello’s ego was the problem. It’s unfortunate that he turned into Hubie Brown, the coach he replaced. River’s also had problems with Reggie, who was actually ran the break better Doc.

coo coo bird fan

July 7th, 2010
8:14 am

As I agree that we don’t need Shaq, it has nothing to do w/ attitude or age. Quite simply its his style of play. It didnt mesh w/ the running Suns or Cavs, hello Atlanta we are also a running team. If you want to boost ticket sales and have 15 minutes of Shaq swim a game go for it. We need another deadly shooter from outside. JJ Redick is available.

DecaturHawk1987

July 7th, 2010
8:49 am

Great article….I mean….. blog northcyde! You really know your stuff. I agree that Bradley is more opiniated than factual, but hey….he does spark intense debate. There are only a few people who have gotten right it right throughout the debate… Forget signing players….can we get some REAL OWNERSHIP. I mean like One person who writes the check and having a sensible GM call the shots. Lakers, Spurs, Celtics, Pistons all are/were ran/run organizations. Can we see if John Schuerholz will have the same winning pedigree in basketball as baseball?? This is absolutely ridiculous! We have 8, broke, idiot owners that can’t seem to get out of their own way. BTW…..8 is an even number, so how does voting work within the front office…just end it at a 4-4 tie??? Is David McDavid still around!!!1 We’re ready to sell! Why can’t Atlanta seem to get it right????

Chris from the Rock

July 7th, 2010
9:03 am

Hawks should ink Michael Cage, but only if he agrees to sport the ‘do circa 1988. Opposing centers would slip and fall on the grease dripping on the floor from his gheri curls.

Eric B

July 7th, 2010
9:25 am

Sign him to the NBA minimum salary and let him back up Horford.

True Atlanta Fan

July 7th, 2010
10:58 am

We don’t need Shaq ruining our locker chemistry any more than it has been. We already have enough of Josh’s immaturity to deal with.

Big Rome

July 7th, 2010
11:25 am

Horford is not, let me repeat, not a center in the NBA. Al Horford played center for the Hawks simply because his team needed him to do so. Ever watch a Major League Baseball game when a team runs out of pitchers and a another position player assumes the role of the pitcher? Al has just been pitching until the Hawks get a center! Better yet, remember when Magic Johnson played all five positions against the Sixers? Magic Johnson played center, but was a point guard. Enough said!!!

tarheelsfan

July 7th, 2010
12:29 pm

I acutally think this would be a grat move for Atlanta. For one the Hawks need someone with size and secondly he would bring some leadership to the locker room and stir some things up. You probably wont look for him to get 20 and 10 but he is still in the top 5 at the center posistion.

Summer League

July 7th, 2010
12:36 pm

All this hypothesitization is cool and all but how about some real news. Who is on the Hawks summer league team. When/where can we watch them? ANYBODY?

bailey

July 7th, 2010
12:59 pm

u dont know anything about basket ball the hawk need him to take out Dwight howarad

bailey

July 7th, 2010
1:00 pm

i agree with tarheelsfan

atlgent

July 7th, 2010
2:57 pm

After eading the topic and the responses, I have become more and more confused by you gentlemen.

First and foremost, there is regular season play and postseason play. The brand of basketball for each is totally different! Postseaseason play relies on coaching skills and match-ups..i.e Boston Celtics 2010.
Shaq should not be brought in to boost regular season win totals. There is virtually little difference in winning 53 games and 62 games…DUH..you will likely get home advantage for first round with either total and you have to be able to win games on the road in the playoffs anyway, so really who cares after seeds 1-4 get together.

Shaq should only be brought in for matchup problems related to postseason play. BTW, postseason play is much slower than regular season play anyways! Imagine Shaq,Horford,and J.Smith roaming the paint together defensivelyduring playoffs time. Thats a paint nightmare for any team!!!By the way, I can not think of any team with the size to guard that combo on the offensive side either…

Futhermore, I am not opposed to Haywood coming in either. And to those that say we need a CENTER, I again ask, Who is this CENTER that we need and can get?

Also, I dont think any of you guys on here that continuously say ” We paid joe too much money” aand ” we are going over the luxury tax” are a part of ASG. Actually, you have paid nothing!!! Just enjoy a good product that they attempt to put on the floor for you and stop crying about how much players are paid, YOU AIN PAYING THEM OUTTA YOUR BUDGET!!! I don’t care if they go over the luxury tax, just play and win…GEEZ!!!

Mike

July 7th, 2010
3:30 pm

First Shaq was the Big Aristotle, then the Big Cactus & if he comes here, he’ll be the Big Peach!! LOL

Jfreak13713

July 7th, 2010
3:37 pm

Rumor has it that Josh Smith would be on trading block if Shaq is signed? I don’t have a problem with Shaq as long as a Smith trade would bring a Small Forward who can shoot the ball? Interesting idea?? We know the Hawks have reached the ceiling with this current team and even if they 45 games instead of 50 or lose in the first round instead of the second round does make much difference. I want to the the Hawks TRYING to improve even if they don’t actually improve.

Nickster79

July 7th, 2010
3:38 pm

Atlanta area Hawks fans (I am in Charleston), if you don’t want Shaq and we get him it is your fault. Shaq will equal sellouts and Phillips, which people didn’t show up for before. The bottom line is money, and Phillips will be full if Shaq is here.

Mark: I don’t like deal either, but is there a good trade somewhere to be made involving Josh Smith and/or Marvin Williams for a top flight small forward?

Rod from Stone Mnt

July 7th, 2010
3:55 pm

Shaq could help as a backup, but Zydrunas Ilgauskas or Joel Przybilla would work better.

Rod from Stone Mnt

July 7th, 2010
3:58 pm

Portland picked up Marcus Camby late and have invested in Greg Oden. Is Joel Przybilla expendable?

Nickster79

July 7th, 2010
4:00 pm

Illgauskas would be a great fit, but I think that will only happen if Lebron leaves Cleveland.

Rod from Stone Mnt

July 7th, 2010
4:00 pm

Signing a Big Man, Jordan Farmar, and moving Bibby and Marvin would be my interest.

Rod from Stone Mnt

July 7th, 2010
4:07 pm

IN:
1) Przybilla, Illgauskas or Shaq
2)Jordan Farmar
3)Outlaw or Al Harrington

Out: Marvin, Bibby, Evans, Collins Randoph

Marty

July 7th, 2010
5:31 pm

Then who should we try to get to confront Howard ?

LA fan

July 8th, 2010
2:18 am

The problem you will have with Shaq is keeping his attention once he see’s the hawks aren’t making it to the NBA finals….it will be just collecting a check, he might even fake a injury

Bring The Big Aristotle to The Big “A” « Glasses Hot Sports

July 8th, 2010
7:35 am

[...] Bradley listed 5 reasons why Shaq wouldn’t be a wise addition, and while there are valid points there, there are still plenty of reasons why the big fella would [...]

No Shaq and no more Hawks' big spending? Big shock there | Mark Bradley

July 16th, 2010
8:54 am

[...] issue here isn’t whether Shaq would have fit the Hawks — my belief was that he wouldn’t have — but the reasons Tomasson identifies for the team’s non-interest. From his report: [...]

mp

July 29th, 2010
12:45 pm

Overmatched 6 -10 centers don’t last long in the NBA. Hate on Shaq if you want, but he averaged 2 less points than horford and played a lot less minutes. Also you analysis that Cleveland loss more with Shaq is STUPID!!! THey also brought in Jamison, also had West in and out of lineup.

Don’t write an analysis without doing a full analysis of the situation.

What’s the big idea? Shaq as a Hawk wouldn’t work

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What’s the big idea? Shaq as a Hawk wouldn’t work

310 comments Add your comment

About Mark Bradley

We’ve Moved!

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Search this blog

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Archives

More from the AJC

Categories

Bradley's blogroll (sports)

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More Bradley Bloviation

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