[8-2] 3PK Hawks|Hawks @ Celtics|vs Hornets|Game On|

[3PK]

Ashes to dust, how the Hawks season began to rust. From success to crude defeat; the Hawks conquered one goal but similarly they faced defeat. Patience is a virtue and for the Atlanta Hawks Patience was finally leading to success. The Hawks 2008-09 season was just a stepping stone to their island. A record of 47-35 saw them take the 4th seed in the East and meet a Dwyane Wade led heat in the opening round. After a long season the Hawks struggled with fatigue and injuries however, pushed on to take the series. They then travelled to a hungry Cleveland, where LeBron James and the Cavs awaited. After a convincing defeat of the Detroit Pistons the Cavs were fresh and revitalised. The Cavaliers dealt the card of defeat, wrapping up the series 4-0 and leaving the Hawks in despair.

An offseason full of richness awaited the Hawks, with great change the only way to bring a championship to Atlanta.

General Manage Rick Sund and Coach Mike Woodson entered with ambitions to re-sign Mike Bibby (success), find his successor (success), entice a veteran (success), add front-court depth (success) and keep the potent front-court of Horford, Smith and Williams together (success). Above this was his goal to add a supporting cast that could win him a championship. Therefore, one task remains. One task is yet to be conquered. The one task that is the greatest of all. The task that every team in the NBA strives for. The only task that matters. Atlanta, Rick Sund and Mike Woodson wanted a championship. They wanted to hang that banner right above the Phillips Arena.
The season to follow was one with high ambitions for the Hawks and here I present it to you.

|The Time is Now|3PK| Atlanta Hawks Franchise|
----
Players Added

Atlanta VIA DRAFT
Jeff Teague (No. 19)
Sergiy Gladyr (No. 49)

VIA FREE AGENCY
Mike Bibby (re-signed)
Jason Collins (from Wolves)
Othello Hunter (re-signed)
Zaza Pachulia (re-signed)
Joe Smith (from Cavs)
Mario West (re-signed) - Later cut
Marvin Williams (re-signed)

VIA TRADE
Jamal Crawford (from Warriors)


Jamal Crawford was the Atlanta Hawks major offseason addition.

Players Lost

VIA FREE AGENCY
Solomon Jones (to Pacers)
Ronald Murray (to Bobcats)

VIA TRADE
Acie Law (to Warriors)
Speedy Claxton (to Warriors)
David Andersen (draft rights to Rockets)


2009/10 SEASON ROSTER
Mike Bibby: (10) - Guard - 6-2 - 195 - 77 overall
Jason Collins: (34) - Center - 7-0 - 260 - 52 overall
Jamal Crawford: (11) - Guard - 6-5 - 190 - 74 overall
Maurice Evans: (1) - Guard-Forward - 6-5 - 220 - 66 overall
Al Horford: (15) - Center-Forward - 6-10 - 235 - 78 overall
Othello Hunter: (50) – Forward-Center - 6-8 - 235 - 50 overall
Joe Johnson: (2) - Guard-Forward - 6-7 - 235 - 88 overall
Randolph Morris: (33) - Center - 6-11 - 260 - 50 overall
Zaza Pachulia: (27) - Center - 6-11 - 275 - 67 overall
Joe Smith: (32) - Forward - 6-10 - 225 - 64 overall
Josh Smith: (5) - Forward - 6-9 - 225 - 83 overall
Jeff Teague: (0) - Guard - 6-2 - 180 - 66 overall
Marvin Williams: (24) - Forward - 6-9 - 230 - 69 overall

LAST SEASON: 47-35
AVERAGE AGE: 26
TEAM SALARY: 64.65M
CAP ROOM: -6.95M
OFFENSE: 86
DEFENSE: 82
OVERALL: 84


2009/2010 SEASON COACHING STAFF
HEAD COACH:
Mike Woodson (College - Indiana)

ASSISTANT COACHES:
Larry Drew (College - Missouri)
Bob Bender (College - Duke)
Jim Todd (College - Fitchburg State)
Tyrone Hill (College - Xavier)
Mark Price (College - Georgia Tech)

ASSISTANT COACH/PLAYER PERFORMANCE:
Pete Radulovic (College - Loyola Marymount)

STRENGTH-AND-CONDITIONING COACH:
Chattin Hill (College - Central Washington)

ATHLETIC TRAINER:
Wally Blase (College - Winona State)

SCOUTING STAFF:
FULL TIME SCOUTS
Greg Ballard
Lojze Milosavljevic
INTERNATIONAL SCOUTS
Mark Crow
Ron Meikle

MAIN OWNER: Atlanta Spirit LLC
VICE PRESIDENT OF BASKETBALL: Dominique Wilkins
DIRECTOR OF BASKETBALL OPERATIONS: Rick Sund

ARENA: Philips Arena
Opened: November 4, 1999
Capacity: 20,007

FRANCHISE VALUE: $306M, 21st overall (Source: Forbes, 2008)

[3PK]

Settings

NBA 2K10 (PS3)
Season length: 82 Games
Play NBA D-League Games: On
Team Chemistry: On
Player Roles: On
Progressive fatigue: On
Trade Deadline: On
Trade Override: Off
Allow CPU Trades: On
Preseason Games: On
Injuries: On
Headline Ticker: On
Fantasy Draft: Off
Customize League: Off
Substitution Method: Rotation (Manual)
Conference Quarterfinals: 7
Conference Semifinals: 7
Conference Finals: 7
NBA Finals: 7
Quarter Length: 12
Sim Quarter Length: 12

[3PK]

Around the League

Friday, November 13th, 2009
Hawks Leaders
PPG: Josh Smith 24.0 (-5), Joe Johnson 22.5 (-3.2), Jamal Crawford 12.0 (-7.0)
ORPG: Josh Smith 2.1 (+0.4), Zaza Pachulia 1.4 (+0.1), Al Horford 1.3 (-0.7)
RPG: Al Horford 11.4 (-4.3), Josh Smith 10.3 (+1.6), Marvin Williams 6.1 (+1.1)
APG: Mike Bibby 7.3 (+/- 0), Joe Johnson 3.6 (-0.7), Josh Smith 2.3 (-0.7)
SPG: Josh Smith 2.1 (-0.6), Marvin Williams & Mike Bibby 1.3 (+/- 0)
BPG: Josh Smith 2.8 (+0.5), Al Horford 1.7 (+/- 0), Joe Johnson 0.9 (- 0.1)
TOPG: Joe Johnson 2.1 (+0.1), Mike Bibby 1.8 (+0.8), Josh Smith 1.5 (-0.5)
FG%: Jeff Teague .655% (-0.011%), Al Horford .568% (-0.084%), Jason Collins .500% (+/- 0)
3P%: Jeff Teague 0.555% (-0.445%), Maurice Evans 0.500% (+/- 0) Jamal Crawford .391% (-0.154%)
FT%: Zaza Pachulia 0.947% (-0.053%) Jamal Crawford 0.916 (-0.084), Joe Johnson 0.853% (+/- 0)
MPG: Josh Smith 37.3 (-1.3), Joe Johnson 36.4 (+0.7), Mike Bibby 33.9 (-3.4)
FPG: Josh Smith 2.8 (-1.2), Al Horford 2.4 (+0.4), Joe Johnson 2.0 (+/- 0)
PER (Player Efficiency Rating): Jeff Teague 35.03 (+/- 0)
PPR (Pure Point Rating): Mike Bibby 9.1 (+/- 0)
TS% (True Shooting %): Jeff Teague .753% (+0.055)

Awards: None obtained as of yet

*The +/- indicates their improvement or decrease in that field of analysis. The comparison point is taking from the last update – which most of the time will be a fortnightly comparison. It is a simple and easy way to analyse player momentum and team trends.

League Leaders
PPG: Carmelo Anthony 32.9, Dwyane Wade – 31.9, Devin Harris 30.1,
ORPG: Chris Bosh 4.4, Jason Thompson 4.3, Tyson Chandler 4.1
RPG: Chris Bosh 14.9, Dwight Howard 13.7, David Lee 13.6
APG: Jason Kidd 10.9, Rajon Rondo 10.2, Deron Williams 10.1
SPG: Manu Ginobili 3.1, Dwyane Wade 3.0, Baron Davis 2.9
BPG: Tim Duncan 3.6, Andrew Bogut 3.0, Andrew Bynum 3.0
TOPG: Devin Harris 4.6, Dwayne Wade 4.3, Rodney Stuckey 4.0
FG%: Grant Hill .650%, Dwight Howard .640%, Andrew Bynum .633%
3P%: Derrick Brown 0.857%, Sergio Rodriguez 0.636%, Jodie Meeks .625%
FT%: Manu Ginobili 0.950%, Zaza Pachulia 0.947%, Leandro Barbosa .947%
MPG: Kevin Durant 41.3, LeBron James 41.1, Andre Iguodala 40.3,
FPG: Andres Nocioni 4.9, Andris Biedrins 4.5, Luis Scola 4.4
PER (Player Efficiency Rating): LeBron James 32.5, Dwyane Wade 32.1, Devin Harris 28.5
PPR (Pure Point Rating): Luke Ridnour 16.8, Chris Duhon 14.7, Jason Kidd 14.4
TS% (True Shooting %): Grant Hill .726%,Richard Jefferson .686%, Mike Dunleavy .678%

Rookie Watch:
1

Stephen Curry 21.5/1.8/4.1 [Last Week Rank: 1]

2

Brandon Jennings 19./0.8/7.5 [Last Week Rank: 4]

3

Blake Griffin 11.5/9.9/0.8 [Last Week Rank: 6]

4

Tyreke Evans 14.4/3.3/4.9 [Last Week Rank: 2]

5

Jonny Flynn 12.1/1.1/7.0 [Last Week Rank: 3]

6

James Harden 11.4/3.0/3.0 [Last Week Rank: 5]

7

Tyler Hansbrough 6.3 /5.5/0.7 [Last Week Rank: N/A]

8

Ty Lawson 5.8/1.9/4.0 [Last Week Rank: 7]

9

Patty Mills 7.3/1.1/2.1 [Last Week Rank: N/A]

10

Derrick Brown 5.5/2.5/0.4 [Last Week Rank: 8]

Outside Looking In
Rodrigue Beaubois 5.1/0.3/0.4
Darren Collison 4.1/0.8/3.2
Terrence Willaims 4.1/4.4/1.9
Marcus Thornton 4.0/1.0/0.0
Jodie Meeks 3.8/0.0/0.0
Lester Hudson 3.8/0.8/0.4

Transactions
October 31st, 2009
Bobcats sign Al Simmons to 1 year/$1.83M deal
Bulls sign Jerry Stackhouse to 1year/$1.02M deal
Hawks sign Wally Szczerbiak to 2year/2.12M deal

Injury Report
Greg Oden POR (Lower Back Strain and Twisted Ankle) Out 1-2 weeks
Juwan Howard POR (strained Hamstring) Hurt Day to Day
Matt Harpring OKC (strained Hamstring) Hurt Day to Day
Leandro Barbosa PHX (Separated Shoulder) Out 2-4 Weeks
Chase Budinger HOU (Dislocated Finger) Hurt Day to Day
Jarrett Jack TOR (Dislocated Finger) Hurt Day to Day
T.J. Ford IND (Torn Labrum) Out 2-4 weeks
J.R. Smith DEN (Strained Hamstring) Hurt 1-2 weeks
Francisco Garcia SAC (Separated Shoulder) Out 1-2 weeks
Deron Williams UTA (Separated Shoulder) Out 1-2 weeks
Peja Stojakovic NO (Strained Groin) Hurt 1-2 weeks
Joe Smith ATL (Dislocated Finger/sprained ankle) Out 1-2 weeks
Al Horford ATL (Broken Finger) Hurt 4-6 weeks
Marc Gasol MEM (Sprained Wrist) Hurt Day to Day
Zach Randolph MEM (sprained Wrist) Hurt Day to Day
Al Thornton LAC (Broken Wrist) Out 2-4 weeks
Daniel Green CLE (Strained Groin) Hurt 1-2 weeks
Anthony Parker CLE (Sprained Wrist) Hurt 1-2 weeks
Derrick Rose CHI (Strained Achilles) Out 2-4 weeks
Gerald Wallace CHA (Strained Hamstring) Hurt 1-2 weeks
Stephen Jackson CHA (Knee Tendinitis) Hurt Day to Day
Jrue Holiday PHI (Strained Calf) Hurt 1-2 weeks

Awards:
Player of the Week
October 27-31: Dwyane Wade MIA (East) & Kobe Bryant LAL (West)
November 1-7: LeBron James CLE (East) & Amar’e Stoudemire PHO (West)


Rumours
The Heat are reportedly offering Jermaine O’Neal for Tracy McGrady. The move makes complete sense for both teams, well partly. The Rockets would get rid of Tracy for a competent center, and at the same time retain legitimate cap room for the off-season. Whilst Tracy would land in the nice surroundings of Miami, potentially a good change of scenery to re-ignite his career. The Heat would in turn play a smaller line-up of Haslem at the Center spot and Beasley at the Power-Forward spot.

In other news Grant Hills stellar season for the suns has seen the Wizards offer Andray Blatche and surprising the pacers offering an upset Troy Murphy for his surfaces. Either move would be extremely beneficial for an improving Phoenix team keen to add good young players.

[Dee.]

Good luck with this.

[3PK]

Good luck with this.

Thanks, I have already played 3 games and am completely in love with the Hawks. I have been having some trouble with my Internet on PS3 so for now updates will not include pictures from the game, however, as soon as i get that fixed they will.

Coming up next: Training Camp, Transactions and a season preview. I just need to edit them all and add some pictures/formatting.

[Azzdogs]

Excited to see transactions

[3PK]

Training Camp

The Atlanta Hawks hit training camp with a vengeance. Eager to make a difference in this years NBA finals plenty of work was to be done. Woodson has put an emphasis on running the break, rebounding and drawing contact. This entails being more aggressive, he asked his forwards to crash the boards faster, get quicker and get stronger. With a arguably undersized lineup, Woodson believes the Hawks will have an edge over other teams in this category, “Al is as good a rebounder as Dwight or Shaquille, but he’s going to be twice as quick, he’s going to be up and down that court at the same pace as Mike (Bibby).”

The two biggest improvers of the offseason were Al Horford and Josh Smith. They have both put on weight and look to add to their already potent game play. A focus of their training has been rebounding and mid-range shooting as the Hawks look to extend the court. Smith is finally making his mark on the NBA stage and told Atlanta Hawks.com he, “wants some credit and wants some respect.” Smith’s defense, athleticism, inside scoring and rebounding are already exceptional however, he hopes to extend his range and improve his fundamentals. A personal goal he highlighted during an interview was to make the NBA all-star team. Competing with the likes of LeBron James, Paul Pierce, Andre Iguodala and Danny Granger this is far from an easy feat. Smith highlighted his versatility and defensive awareness as an advantage over other small forwards.


|Al Horford and Josh Smith getting excited|

|Jeff Teague taking it to the rack|


Other improvements include;
Jeff Teague: Shooting Ability, court vision and leadership
Mario West (later cut): Dribbling and passing
Joe Johnson: Perimeter defense and ability to draw the foul
Mike Bibby: Hustle, fade away jumpshot
Randolph Morris: Offensive rebounding
Jason Collins: Shot inside and shot close
Jamal Crawford: Stamina

[3PK]

Wally Szczerbiak signed as insurance

The Atlanta Hawks have moved to sign Wally Szczerbiak on a 1 year deal, however, monetary details remain undisclosed. Szczerbiak is a terrific shooter that will help spread the floor and offer insurance as a G/F. Szczerbiak also brings 54 games of Playoff experience, one all-star appearance and a career average of 14.1 points and 4 rebounds to the Hawks who are lacking playoff experience.


|New addition Wally Szczerbiak is keen to make a difference at his new home|

The move with met with great praise from hawks fans who believe there team is ready to contend. Woodson spoke to the media and highlighted the need for depth, versatility and experience in a winning team.

“Even if his playing 5 minutes a game his an asset to our team. We understand his been out of the game for a while but we have a mini-camp coming up and he has a pre-season to get back in his grove.”

“Overall, it’s about adding pieces to the puzzle. I think our jigsaw is almost solved…Wal can shoot, put it on the floor and will compliment our shooters when his on the floor. Additionally, this gives us the insurance that we need, if or when injuries inevitably occur. It’s a long season and we won’t make the same mistake twice, hopefully Wally can be our solution.”

“You look at all the teams of this decade, they’ve had that one extra experienced player.”

The move comes just days after the Hawks signalled their championship intentions. Fans flocked to the Phillips arena for media day where the squad and their new acquisition were shown off.

Furthermore, the addition of Wally Szczerbiak gives the Hawks two versatile and experienced players whom can play off the bench – he and Joe Smith. The two ironically enough played together last year. When Joe heard of the news, he had the following to say, "Its great for him to be here. Last year we became good friends, he has a good basketball IQ and is a winner. He adds a lot to this team, both on and off the court and he'll certainly mentor our younger players."

"I know Wal (Wally Szczerbiak) isn't here just to make up the numbers, we (the veterens on the team) have specified roles and I will sure welcome him with open arms...I did here rumours he might be coming but the way the world is today I just shrugged them off."

*NB: More trade news to come ensuing Game 1 vs Indiana Pacers

[3PK]

2009-10 Atlanta Hawks Season Preview

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 – Since 2004-05 the Hawks have steadily improved their record and the time is now, for a team ready to make a championship push.

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2004-05: 13 wins – 69 losses
2005-06: 26 wins – 56 losses
2006-07: 30 wins – 52 losses
2007-08: 37 wins – 45 losses (Lost in 1st round)
2008-09: 47 wins – 35 losses (Lost in 2nd round)

The Hawks kick off their season tonight against a revamped Indiana Pacers. Roy Hibbert, Danny Granger and Troy Murphy lead the exciting pacers, who are looking to get off to a good start. Tyler Hansbrough and Jeff Teague (college rivals) will continue their competition and see their first NBA action. The Hawks are looking to continue their steady development and win 50+ games, thus, allowing them a top four seed. With the Magic, Celtics and Cavs all adding depth and quality to their line-up a top two seed in the east seems unlikely. Nonetheless, the Hawks have had a near flawless offseason and believe ‘The Time is Now’.

The Hawks have one of the strongest and most experienced backcourts in basketball right now and with an all-star front-court (with an average age of 26), the Hawks show great promise. They may however, struggle at the Center spot up against Dwight Howard and Shaquille O’neal amongst many others, due to a lack of strength, size but most importantly depth. This is due to Woodson’s reluctance to play Zaza at Center, instead opting to give him extended minutes behind Josh Smith at Power Forward. When asked whether Woodson believed he had the pieces to contend for a championship he responded as follows.

“We’re a good team, a really good team. Right now what matters are the Pacers. We hope we can take it to the next level but every player, every coach, every member of this organisation is taking it one game at a time. Its all you can do….focus on Indiana. They’re a dangerous team, they can shoot the ball, and right now it’s an even playing field. Anyone can win. We’ve got to be prepared to play tough.”

“To answer your question we will contend for a championship, I know that we’ve worked on our team and we will get it right. Whether or not we make the NBA finals will only be answered in due course, but there’s not doubt we’re a contender.”

The Phillips Arena reeks with confidence and the Atlanta Hawks are hoping that they can finally break through this year. There is a common belief around the league that they are just the 4th team in what is a three-team dominated conference. However, the Hawks are determined to rid such a stereotype and create history.

There’s no doubt if this team is around the mark a few months into the season or thereafter until the trade deadline, GM Sund will be on the phone organising a nice little deal. All awaits this team, and there is a beacon of hope that they must grasp.

They have all the potential but all the work to be done. One game at a time says Mike Woodson, well game one starts tonight.


Projected 2009-10 record: 53-29 (Optimistic Record: 62-20; Pessimist Record: 36-46)
---

Projected Rotation

Starters
PG: Mike Bibby (8.9/2.5/8.2; 14.5 PER)
SG: Joe Johnson (26.1/2.2/3.8; 16.4 PER)
SF: Marvin Williams (9.8/5.2/2.1; 11.9 PER)
PF: Josh Smith (24.1/9.3/3.4; 18.7 PER)
C: Al Horford (8.0/12.0/1.5; 16.7 PER)

-----------------------------------------------------

Bench
G: Jeff Teague (6.3/0.8/3.2; 7.6 PER)
G/F: Jamal Crawford (16.8/1.7/4.6; 10.8 PER)
F/G: Maurice Evans (5.4/1.7/2.3; 8.6 PER)
F/C: Joe Smith (4.1/3.8/1.1; 11.4 PER)
C: Zaza Pachulia (4.3/4.5/0.2; 9.1 PER)
C: Jason Collins (0.3/1.4/0.3)
F/G: Wally Szczerbiak (2.3/1.1/0.9)

Injury Reserve
C: Randolph Morris (0.3/1.9/0.4)
PF: Othello Hunter (0/0/0)

Projected Southeast Division Standings (Conference Seed):
Orlando Magic: 54-28 (2nd Seed)
Atlanta Hawks: 53-29 (3rd Seed)
Miami Heat: 44-38 (6th Seed)
Charlotte Bobcats: 28-54 (un-seeded)
Washington Wizard: 26-56 (un-seeded)

NEXT UP: Game Preview of Season Openor vs Pacers

[Azzdogs]

Good signing in Szczerbiak

[anthony22]

this is looking great so far,i was thinking of a Hawks dynasty too on my ps3(live 10)
im following this one

[3PK]

Good signing in Szczerbiak

this is looking great so far,i was thinking of a Hawks dynasty too on my ps3(live 10)
im following this one

Thanks so much guys. This is my first dynasty since I was 13 and well lets just say it wasn't very special. I was very tentative to make one but yeah I'm having a great time so far.

The Hawks are so much fun to play with. I really like their team and organisation and I figure they're the next big thing in the East.

Updates are on their way - Three games into the seasonn so far (One came down to the buzzer) and the other two have been close right through.

[hova-]

Nice to see a Hawks D. Interesting team! Keep it coming. Good luck

[kibaxx7]

Wally signed for the Hawks in my association too. Nice start

[The X]

Wally signed for the Hawks in my association too. Nice start

Ditto

[3PK]

Game 1 Preview - Home Opener: Hawks vs Pacers

Wednesday, October 28, 2009. The Indiana Pacers travel to Atlanta, GA to face an Atlanta Hawks outfit, finely tuned for victory. Both the Pacers and Hawks have playoff aspirations and are keen to start off the season with a bang. Whoever the winner the sellout crowd at Phillips Arena is sure to see a spectacle, a game many anticipate will be offensive, fast-paced and ultimately the beginning of what is an 82 game rollercoaster.

Starters

Atlanta Hawks
PG: Mike Bibby
SG: Joe Johnson
SF: Marvin Williams
PF: Josh Smith
C: Al Horford


Indiana Pacers
PG: T.J. Ford
SG: Brandon Rush
SF: Danny Granger
PF: Troy Murphy
C: Roy Hibbert


Injuries
Atlanta Hawks: N/A
Indiana Pacers: N/A

By the Numbers
*Statistics applicable from the 2008-9 NBA season*
NBA Record:
Atlanta Hawks| 47-35
Indiana Pacers|36-46
Points Leader:
Atlanta Hawks| Joe Johnson | 21.4
Indiana Pacers| Danny Granger | 25.8
Rebounds Leader:
Atlanta Hawks| Al Horford | 9.3
Indiana Pacers| Troy Murphy | 11.8
Assists Leader:
Atlanta Hawks| Joe Johnson | 5.8
Indiana Pacers| T.J. Ford | 5.3
Steals Leader:
Atlanta Hawks| Josh Smith | 1.4
Indiana Pacers| T.J. Ford | 1.2
Blocks Leader:
Atlanta Hawks| Josh Smith | 1.6
Indiana Pacers| Danny Granger | 1.4

X-Factor:Danny Granger: His ability to score points in bunches (and quickly) poses a great challenge for the Atlanta Hawks. Granger is likely to match up with Josh Smith and defensive specialist Maurice Evans throughout the game.

Key Matchup: Al Horford vs Roy Hibbert: Two monsters in the paint, two forces on the glass, two powerhouses of the game – so young and so full of potential. Roy Hibbert and Al Horford meet at Phillips arena on Wednesday in what is arguably the biggest game of there careers to date. Warranted Horford has played in the playoffs but tonight has a greater meaning. The critics see both Horford and Hibbert as the two of the three best Young centers in the East (along with Brook Lopez) and ergo, hold the key to their teams success. With raw potential and ability hard to come by at the center spot the Hawks and Pacers are hoping that Horford and Hibbert can reach there potential through the 2009-10 NBA season.


|Al Horford gets by Roy Hibbert back in their college days|
They will battle the court in a match-up with so much to prove. Horford is attempting to become elite, not just good, but elite and Hibbert is on the verge of breaking through. Before the game Hibbert had the following to say, “tonight is big, if we want to be there in April, still fighting it out, it all starts tonight. I’m ready to take my game from 10 and 6 (10 points and 6 rebounds per game) to 16 and 10. Al and I have something to prove, and we know this game is kind of on our backs. We can both score, we both have depth, and we can both defend the perimeter but neither team has really had a dominant center for ample years. The paint will be our sanctuary and if we can own it, you open up the game from beyond arc.”

Importantly Hibbert and Horford are dominant presences in the paint on defense and will be looking to change opposition shots. Their position as an NBA center is far from dependent on one game, but what is for sure is that when tonight is over we’ll have a better perspective of whether or not these guys are for real.

Mike Woodson will be hoping Al Horford can take the matchup and lead his team to the ideal start. Nonetheless, a battle of puissant men will be on for young and old when tipoff comes and the soldier that comes out alive may indeed spark his team to a memorable victory.

Projected Score: Atlanta win 107-99

Next Up: Game Recap - Atlanta Hawks vs Indiana Pacers

[|)e8*]

Love this man

[3PK]

Nice to see a Hawks D. Interesting team! Keep it coming. Good luck

Wally signed for the Hawks in my association too. Nice start

Thnaks for the support Hova and yes Thierry in one of my original associations I had the same transaction occur. I tossed up between him and stackhouse but ultimately chose szczerbiak. After playing my fourth game, I think the move was the right one, I'm starting to get into the groove of using him. So I can't take all the credit for engineering that move!

Love this man

Thanks so much.

I am about 15minutes away from update, I would love some criticism and constructive feedback (if not compliments are fine hahaha ) because I want this to succeed. I'm far from there but seeing the kind of dynasty that guys like The x, Hova Sit and Lamrock have put together, its inspirational and I hope I can get to where they're at.

[3PK]

Game 1 - Home Opener: Hawks [0-0] vs Pacers [0-0] @ Phillips Arena



Recap:
Wednesday, October 28, 2009. The anticipation amongst Phillips Arena was one which for those who weren’t there would be hard to image. The crowd stood from there seats, each breathe deafening. The moment that they had been waiting for all through the summer had come. Play time was over and work had began. Led by Mike Bibby out came the Atlanta Hawks to a thunderous roar, heard all over Georgia. The time was now. Equally so, the Pacers were met with a thunderous boo, the fireworks were over (well at least off the floor) and as NBA veteran referee tossed the ball up to kick things of the game was truly on.


|T.J. Ford signing autographs before the game|

1st Quarter: Things were tight early as neither side was willing to give up easy buckets. Second year center Roy Hibbert was keen to give the Pacers a strong start, and with an early block on an attempted Josh Smith dunk he did exactly that. Granger took it down the other end to in turn create a 3-point play opportunity. Coincidently enough, this marked the debut of arguably the greatest college player of the decade, Tyler Hansbrough. Unfortunately for him, it wasn’t exactly a warm welcome, an excellent steal on Hansbrough was followed up by a Marvin Williams three at the other end. T.J. ford was persistant, again handing the rock to Hansbrough, this time even worse – Hansbrough drove right to the bucket just to be denied by Al Horford, which ironically enough led to Johnson’s first three of many to come in the 2009-10 NBA season. Both teams traded buckets until the buzzer; the quarter ended with the Hawks up 30-23. Mike Bibby had a noticeable impact in the first quarter, finishing with two points, five assists, one rebound and one steal.

2nd Quarter: During the break Mike Woodson called his players to be aggressive, and to attack the basket. In an attempt to increase the tempo Jeff Teague was injected into the game. Despite a turnover and 2 early fouls Woodson persevered. On the ensuing possession Teague flew by the defense only to create an open three for Jamal Crawford, indeed it was a nice welcome party for the Wake Forest standout. In the minutes to the come the Pacers hit back behind some steller bench play from Mike Dunleavy to even things at 48 a piece. With two minutes to play the game took a turn. Consecutives three’s by Joe Johnson couldn’t be matched as the Hawks ran away to lead 60-48 at the half.

Player of the Half: T.J. Ford’s pace troubled the Hawks. His ability to find teammates of finish at the rack gave him seven points, five assists, one rebound and two steals at the half

3rd Quarter: The third quarter saw a remarkable comeback from the pacers. Behind Danny Granger the pacers rallied. Their inability to gets stops on the other end, however, meant they were inable to capture the lead. On the back of a clever no look T.J. Ford pass Indiana were able to the game at 73-73 with 5:33minutes remaining. Horford and Smith went cold and the pacers hit the accelerator. Flying into three quarter time ahead 89-86. Danny Granger had a standout quarter, hitting three, three-pointers and knocking down 21 points for the quarter.


|Josh Smith throwing it down on the break|

4th Quarter: The fourth quarter began much like the 3rd quarter ended. The Pacers took a seven point lead and the crowd were silenced. Roy Hibbert was winning the key-matchup and his 15rebounds half way through the term had the pacers up by four. On the ensuing possession Earl Watson got a magnificent interception only to turn it over for the 5th time in the game. In a fast-paced, adrenaline pumping affair Josh Smith took it to the Pacers. His transition slam was one for the ages, Mike Dunleavy truly learnt what it meant to get dunked on. After a solo 8-point run from Josh Smith, the Hawks were back in command. During a pacers timeout, Pacers coach Jim O’Brien prompted his team to slow the tempo. Such comments came to no avail. The Hawks played true help and team defense, able to empty their bench with 1:13mintues to play. Leading 114-103. Amazingly so Danny Granger took it upon himself to hit two three-pointers in the space of a few seconds. As the game ended late-game fouls saw the Hawks run out 122-111 winners. The time was now, and the Hawks had rose to the occasion with a stellar 11 point victory.


|Jim O'Brien left to ponder the 11 point defeat|

Player of the Game: Joe Johnson finished with a superb 34 points on 13-20 shooting. This was accompanied with five rebounds, five assists and two highlight reel blocks.

Noteworthy Performances:
Hawks | Josh Smith: 33 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assists, 1 steal & 2 blocks (40 minutes) | Al Horford: 13 points, 17 rebounds (all defensive), 1 assist, 1 steal & 2 blocks (36 minutes) | Jamal Crawford: 20 points (9-15 shooting from the field – 2-2 from beyond the arc), 1 rebound, 2 assists, 1 steal & 1 block (19 minutes).


|Josh Smith (2 blcoks) with the monster Block on Troy Murphy (1-9 from the field)|

Pacers |Danny Granger: 33 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists & 2 blocks (39 minutes)| Roy Hibbert: 17 points, 16 rebounds (8 offensive and 8 defensive rebounds), 2 assists, 1 steal & 2 blocks (37 minutes) | T.J. Ford: 13 points, 2 rebounds, 15 assists, 4 steals & 1 block (36 minutes) |Mike Dunleavy 23 points (10-17 from the field – 3-5 from beyond the arc) & 2 assists (18 minutes).

Not so Noteworthy Performances:
Hawks| Mike Bibby: 2 points (1-8 shooting from the field, 0-2 from beyond the arc), 2 rebounds, 10 assists, 2 steals, 1 block & 3 turnovers (36 minutes).

Pacers | Troy Murphy: 2 points (1-9 shooting from the field, 0-4 from beyond the arc), 12 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 turnover & 5 fouls (34 minutes).

Verdict on the matchup: Al Horford and Roy Hibbert were both extremely influential in this one. Roy Hibbert ultimately took the matchup ending with 17 points on 6-9 shooting, 16 rebounds (8 offensive and 8 defensive), 2 assists, 1 steal and 2 blocks. On the other side of the spectrum Horford played a great game too, finishing with 13 points on 5-9 shooting, 17 rebounds (all defensive), 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks. Ratings – Horford |8| Hibbert |9|

Game Moment: Josh Smith threw down a monster jam on Mike Dunleavy, giving Atlanta the momentum and what would ultimately be a game-winning lead.

phpBB [video]

|Josh Smith Dunk Mix - Just a taste of what was a sensational game|

Next Game: The Atlanta Hawks will meet the Washington Wizards @ Phillips Arena whilst the Pacers go on to meet the Miami Heat @ Conseco Fieldhouse.

[3PK]

Rockets offer Lowry, Landry and 2nd Pick for Bibby - Hawks fans in uproar

Thursday, October 29, 2009 – Rick Adelman and Daryl Morey were talking all through the night, when Adelman decided it was time. They engaged in a three-way conversation – Adelman, Morey and Sund.


|Carl Landry gets upstrairs for the Jam|

The conversation began as per usual, casual greetings, personal discussion and a little bit of tea and coffee as to speak. Quite a period of time passed before things got serious.

“Rick, we’ll give it to you straight. We have been good friends for a long time and we have a deal that we think is beneficial for both organisations. Kyle is ready for a starting role and lets be honest you’re one short of a dominant bench forward. So here it is Kyle Lowry and Carl Landry for Mike Bibby. What do you think?”

“Before he could answer Daryl cut in, remember Bibby can’t be there forever…”
Rick sund thought for a few moments, an absolute silence dulled the phone call… “you have got be kidding me…I see where you’re coming from but right now, why would I even consider it.”

“We’re willing to deal a second pick, if necessary.”

“Look guys I’m going to think about this one overnight but right now…I just can’t see this happening.”

“Alright we understand...stay in contact, because this offer is right where it is, If you want it. Its yours.”

Mike Bibby has been so far unproductive in preseason and the home opener, however, the Hawks feel as though he is instrumental to their team. Despite his sub-par contribution, his intensity in training, work ethic and hustle are all at career highs. The move is unlikely to occur in the immediate future, however, Sund is far from ruling out the option.
An undisclosed league source released the information into the media, sending Hawks fans into disarray. It should be noted speculation that the Hawks offered the deal is being reported, causing internal disputes. Mike Woodson has moved quickly to hold a team meeting following practice. Comments were obtained from Hawks supporters who were allowed into an open training session.


|Bibby is key to the Hawks success, with his tremendous leadership and court awareness|
The fans perspective

“Shipping away an experienced veteran point will ruin this team, I know Carl and Kyle are good players but we can’t upset this starting line-up write now.”

“Mike just signed a new contract, his a good player and heck, Kyle Lowry won’t lead this team to a championship, if you pull the trigger on this trade you’re gunning down our teams championship hopes.”

“I like the deal – we get two excellent players, the best bench forward in the nation and a defensive point guard, who is quick and can find his teammates. It will take them a while but they will get familiar with eachother and we’ll be better then ever.”

“Shocking move – Sund, you gotta keep your cards close until trade deadline. Then we know where we’re at and where we gotta go.”

“We should’ve done it, two good young players and a second pick, this could help us be a really good team.”

Houston were believed to be looking to play Brooks as a combo guard, backing up both Bibby and Ariza and in turn giving Houston some trade ammunition come mid season.

This one is far from over and we’re likely to hear more in the coming days.

[Fresh8]

I think it would be a nice deal actually if you put this one through!

[Martti.]

I would do this if I were the Hawks. Then I'd go with Teague-Johnson-Smith-Landry-Horford, giving you a deep bench. (Lowry, Crawford, Williams, Smith, Zaza etc.)

[|)e8*]

3 Words: JUST.DO.IT

[Lamrock]

Carl Landry is one of my favorite players, and Lowry is also underrated. However, the trade makes no sense for the Rockets, giving up their best young player, and relegating Aaron Brooks to the bench. I've also been a fan of Mike Bibby since 2002.

As for the association itself, its a considerable improvement over your Live 07 dynasty, but the previews are simply a waste of time. Furthermore, its fine that you don't have pics, but you should get shorter ones so it doesn't break up the recap as much. Good writing and lots of effort though.

[hova-]

I'd do the trade. I understand that the Rockets don't want Brooks to control their game. He is very good IRL but a veteran PG is like Bibby could def help them. Landry is a very good backup in the paint for Smoove or Horford.
Lamrock is right. Try to get in one or two resized smaller pics.