HawkTodd

Hawks News (6-3-04) Pre-Draft Workout, June 3. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_060304.html Trevor Ariza (left) matches up with Dorell Wright during one-on-one drills. ------------------------------------------------------------ Wilkins may get piece of Hawks (6-3-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha.../04wilkins.html ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-3-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8485.shtml Atlanta Hawks: There are just two head coaching jobs still available in the NBA, and only one of those teams has a GM (Toronto appears to have no front office at all). The Hawks offer the world's last opportunity to coach an American NBA team... at least until turnover rears its ugly head once more. The Hawks have interviewed apparently everybody under the sun. They have already worked out 28 potential draft choices. Isn't it time for a decision? Isn't it time for a coach? ------------------------------------------------------------ Finals Memories. http://www.nba.com/finals2004/finals_memories.html Jason Terry, Atlanta Hawks: "In 1987, when Magic Johnson connected with his 'junior, junior, junior skyhook' in Game 4 with two seconds remaining that gave the Lakers a 107-106 victory and a 3-1 lead in the series." Stephen Jackson, Atlanta Hawks: "In 1993, when Michael Jordan was in the Bulls' locker room hugging his father and crying, while flashing 3/4 fingers signifying the titles Chicago had won and the amount he thought the Bulls might win."

Hawks News (6-2-04) Pre-Draft Workout, June 2. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_060204.html Al Jefferson (right) goes one-on-one with Anderson Varejao. ------------------------------------------------------------ Camby is closer to decision day (6-2-04). http://rockymountainnews.com/drmn/nuggets/article/0,1299,DRMN_20_2931638,00.html WAITING GAME: He is out of work and living in the 100-degree Arizona heat, but John MacLeod is not sweating his future. The former Nuggets assistant officially joined the unemployment ranks when his contract expired Tuesday. MacLeod, who won 707 games in 18 seasons as an NBA coach, interviewed for the Atlanta coaching vacancy two weeks ago but has not heard back from the Hawks. "They're not going to rush this thing," MacLeod said from his home in Phoenix. "I'll just hold tight here and play it as it goes. You can't force anybody to make a move." MacLeod said he also would be interested in the opening in Toronto, but he has not been contacted by the Raptors. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (6-2-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8472.shtml Atlanta Hawks: A week ago, we watched as the Atlanta Hawks received the sixth selection in the 2004 NBA Draft. In that process, there were little surprises. After all, picks 14 through six had gone exactly to script, in order of finish of the 2003-04 season's records. We saw general manager sit there near emotionless and I speculated that he looked like he could care less where he was, much less where the Hawks were picking. No frustration that the Hawks didn't move up as hoped. No satisfaction that they didn't fall to a lower pick. No emotion at all. Since those observations of Knight, I have had time to reflect and I have come up with one conclusion: I'd sure hate to play poker with Billy Knight. ------------------------------------------------------------ Pollard rode pine for Pacers (6-2-04). http://www.ljworld.com/section/kusports/story/171891 Here's an update on the other former KU players in the NBA: Jacque Vaughn. As a backup point guard for the Atlanta Hawks, Vaughn averaged 3.8 points and 2.7 assists while logging about 18 minutes a game. Vaughn has played the last two seasons with one-year contracts, so he's a free agent again. In seven NBA campaigns, Vaughn has gained a reputation as a solid reserve who can play defense and protect the ball. ------------------------------------------------------------ Trade may attract top performers (6-1-04). http://www.floridatoday.com/!NEWSROOM/spor...yS0602MAGIC.htm With no consensus No. 1 available -- not even UConn's Emeka Okafor -- talks of the Magic dealing it are sure to dominate. So FLORIDA TODAY has come up with 10 trades that might be had. Salaries have to match up, so that eliminates most of the stars. And, for now at least, McGrady is off limits in the trade talks. So here are 10 deals the Magic might want to consider: The deal: Orlando's No. 1 pick to Atlanta for the No. 6 pick and point guard Jason Terry. Why it makes sense: Atlanta wants local product Dwight Howard to put fans in the stands and knows that if it does not jump ahead of the Clippers at No. 2 it will miss him. This deal would allow the Magic to fill their hole at the point with Terry, a guard who can score and distribute. Also, Orlando could use the No. 4 pick to select either UConn's Ben Gordon or a center/power forward here. Why it doesn't make sense: Terry has had his issues with teammates in the past because he is too often a shoot-first, pass-second point guard. Also, Atlanta would have to be convinced that Howard is going to be a superstar to unload so much to get him.

Hawks News (6-1-04) Pre-Draft Workout, June 1. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_040601.html Brandon Mouton grabs a rebound during Tuesday's workout. ------------------------------------------------------------ Humble beginnings for Crawford couple (6-1-04). http://www.mlive.com/sports/kzgazette/inde...85223227520.xml Chris Crawford discusses NBA topics like LeBron, Lakers (6-1-04). http://www.mlive.com/sports/kzgazette/inde...85212227520.xml ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ | Taking A Look @ The Hawks (6-1-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8454.shtml ------------------------------------------------------------ Tuesday Smack: See you next season T-Wolves! (6-1-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2450550 The word is that the Hawks might be leaning toward Del Harris for their next head coach. There's really no coaching job that Del won't turn down. Del, do you want to be one of Nellie's 17 assistants in Dallas? Del, do you want to coach the Chinese National Team? Del, do you want to take on a no-win situation in Atlanta? Yes, yes and yes. ------------------------------------------------------------ Rudderless Raptors could probably use Harris' help (6-1-04). http://www.madison.com/captimes/sports/uw/...l/men/75464.php The Clippers have the No. 2 pick and you can expect a move. They've had the No. 2 pick in the draft three times and they've traded all three selections: Danny Ferry, Antonio McDyess and Tyson Chandler. One of the scenarios could find the Clippers taking Dwight Howard at No. 2 and then working out a deal with the Atlanta Hawks for their No. 6 pick and maybe guard Jason Terry. The Hawks covet Howard, an Atlanta native. The Clippers don't need a forward as much as they need a point guard, and Terry could be the answer. Or maybe they would turn around and have the Hawks draft for them - Harris or Gordon at No. 6. ------------------------------------------------------------ Jazz will play Kirilenko's ex-team in Russia in preseason (6-1-04). http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/7380420 SALT LAKE CITY -- The Utah Jazz will open the preseason in Russia, facing the former team of All-Star forward Andrei Kirilenko. Utah will be the first NBA team to play in Russia since the Atlanta Hawks toured the former Soviet Union in 1988. ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Dr. Jack Ramsey (5-31-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5350 Bryant: (GA): can the hawks do anything to stay out of the nba basement next season. thanks for your answer. Dr. Jack Ramsay: The Hawks have a tough remake job...very difficult in one year...but Denver did it with Kiki Vandewegh's expertise. The Hawks need to do that same kind of thing...not as easy this season because there's no Melo or James out there.

Hawks News (5-31-04) Something's gotta give in L.A. (5-31-04). http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sp...0405310120may31,1,3049132.column?coll=cs-home-utility Hawks like Harris: The Hawks are said to be leaning toward Mavericks assistant Del Harris for their head-coaching job. Harris had a shot at the Cavaliers' job before Paul Silas, but rejected it. Now, Don Nelson's staff isn't as secure and Harris, coaching this summer's Chinese Olympic team, is looking for opportunities. The Hawks also talked with former coach Mike Fratello, who looks to be the best candidate given his success in previous jobs. Fratello also is talking to the Hornets about the general manager job but prefers to return to coaching. ------------------------------------------------------------ Could Jack Be Back? (5-31-04). http://www.woai.com/spurs/story.aspx?conte...A5-1DF7A9900292 ------------------------------------------------------------ Coaching in the NBA takes a real pro (5-31-04). http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian...04577123410.xml When Mike Montgomery left Stanford to take over as coach of the Golden State Warriors on May 21, he said he could succeed where many of his brethren have failed. Rick Pitino, Lon Kruger, Leonard Hamilton and Kevin O'Neill are a few of the college coaches who tried their hands at the NBA coaching game in recent years, and most have retreated to the college game. "When you're playing back-to-back games or four games in five nights, you aren't practicing," said Kruger, who posted a 69-122 record (.361) in slightly more than two seasons with Atlanta. "You have only so many opportunities to practice." NBA players often have greater influence with management than NBA coaches. Kruger said communication and standing up for what he thinks is right will be critical for Montgomery. "It's so difficult if you don't have that open line of communication with management," Kruger said. "And having some input in personnel decisions is a must for Mike. "I guess I was a little naive in that sense. Especially early on. I just kind of rolled with it a little bit, expecting certain things to take place. You've got to fight for your turf."

Hawks News (5-30-04) Howard a Hawk? It still could happen (5-30-04). http://www.ajc.com/sunday/content/epaper/e...fea0a10040.html ------------------------------------------------------------ BRYANT HOT FOR SUNS, SPURS (5-30-04). http://www.nypost.com/sports/22004.htm Decision makers and swayers representin' both the Clips and Hawks disclose and confirm there's meaningful conversation regarding a swap of elite first round choices. To nobody's shock or awe, Atlanta's primary objective is to place itself in position to draft local schoolboy sensation Dwight Howard. In order to accomplish that goal it must, at the minimum, advance to the second overall pick owned by L.A., since it appears Emeka Okafor will be selected first by the Magic. Although the Clips might be able to find room in their lineup for a 6-10 power tool, their pressing need is for a point guard. The idea, which may soon be realized, is to swap No. 2 for Nos. 6 & 17 and harvest either Wisconsin's 6-3 Devin Harris or 6-7 teenager Shaun Livingston with the highest pick. The Hawks received permission from the Pacers to interview associate coach Mike Brown for their head job when Indy's season ends. ------------------------------------------------------------ Best to keep heat turned up (5-30-04). http://www.thejournalnews.com/newsroom/053...banotesweb.html Around the rim: Some of the league's younger coaching prospects reportedly are avoiding the Hawks because they fear a second chance will not be offered should the atmosphere not change in Atlanta over the next three years. ------------------------------------------------------------ Nets mulling Abdur-Rahim (5-29-04). http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/197920p-170914c.html

Hawks News (5-29-04) Rivals' confusion can only help Heat (5-29-04). http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketb.../sfl-ira30may30,0,3462217.column BAD BOUNCE: Apparently, the Hawks are on a postseason losing streak. Having tied with the Clippers for the fourth-worst record, at 28-54, Atlanta lost an April 15 tiebreaker with Los Angeles for an extra lottery combination, leaving the Hawks with 104 and the Clippers with 105. As it turns out, each team had three of the same numbers of the four-number combination that decided the No. 2 pick -- 9-11-13. But when the fourth ball Wednesday night was a 4, the No. 2 pick went to the Clippers. The Hawks needed a 3. To appreciate why the Hawks still have a coaching vacancy, consider that Atlanta has only four players under contract for next season: Jason Terry, Boris Diaw, Chris Crawford and Alan Henderson. It is not exactly a core that a proven quantity would be rushing to guide. ------------------------------------------------------------ What to do? Go to high school or drop out in the draft (5-29-04). http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...rts/8794331.htm Tricky situation: The Magic are taking calls from teams, wondering how much value they can get for the No. 1 pick. There are no instant stars waiting at No. 1, as James was last year, although Okafor and Howard figure to have fine careers. Howard wants to help his hometown Atlanta Hawks turn things around. But he likely won't be around when the Hawks pick No. 6, so why not go to Orlando? "I'm going to be the No. 1 pick," Howard told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "I'll get them to decide that when they see me work out. I would love to play with T-Mac."

Hawks News (5-28-04) Pre-Draft Workout, May 28. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_040528.html Marcus Douthit prepares to launch a jumper at Friday's workout. ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-28-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4736.shtml ATLANTA: Vinsane In The Membrane Now that the Atlanta Hawks are likely to come nowhere near hometown hero Dwight Howard in next month's draft, they now must decide if there is someone else worth taking at six and if not, where to send the pick. The odds of making a deal would seem to be pretty decent. Unless the Orlando Magic trade their number one to a team looking to take Howard, the Hawks would be dealing with the Los Angeles Clippers for the right to swap for their second pick. The good news is that the Clippers already have All-Star caliber forward Elton Brand and do not need Howard. They also have an abundance of youth at all positions and don't necessarily need another high schooler, though that hasn't stopped them before has it? Collecting young and temporary talent come draft time has become their annual ritual. The Hawks, for their part, have to hope that they can persuade the Clippers to send Howard their way in exchange for a player like Josh Smith (who would go at six). The Clippers might go for this because they could use a swingman like Smith due to his inevitable marketability because of the Vince Carter comparisons. Speaking of that, couldn't the Hawks use a big-time draw right about now? Everyone assumes Howard would be the perfect fit in Atlanta, but he might never develop into anything and that would only serve to anger those in Atlanta. However, Smith looks poised to be a dunkaholic if nothing else, which always lights up the masses even if he also fails to develop into greatness coming straight from the prom. Also, keeping the pick and taking the high-flying Smith would save the Hawks from having to pursue an unlikely and costly deal to land Howard. Which is not to say they won't pursue that still, but they really must be careful when making this decision. Howard will cost the team a player or two, future considerations and the right to draft Smith, if the Clippers even go for it. While Smith would cost them nothing but their pick and has been described as 'Vince Carter with heart'. That's sounds pretty scary to me, as heart and toughness are always said to be the missing ingredients in Vinsanity's game. It's all up to you Billy Knight. Between this and the upcoming coaching decision, Knight will be able to put his stamp on this franchise in a very big way. Will he make the right choices?[i/] ------------------------------------------------------------ Ryan still excels at budget ball (5-28-04). http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/n.../8779157.htm?1c DON'T PRINT THAT: Timberwolves assistant Randy Wittman is being mentioned for the Atlanta Hawks' coaching job. It wouldn't be surprising if former Golden State coach Eric Musselman gets an offer to join the Wolves if Wittman or one of Flip Saunders' other assistants gets an NBA coaching job. Musselman also is expected to be interviewed for several NBA head-coaching jobs this summer. ------------------------------------------------------------ Mock Draft: Williams' Magic touch (5-28-04). http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/7369096 Here's an early look at how things may go on June 24: 6. Atlanta: Devin Harris, PG, Wisconsin. His size and skill make him the perfect building block for the Hawks to start over with. Better yet, he would be a great complement to Jason Terry if the diminutive two-guard sticks around. 17. Atlanta: Pavel Podkolzine, C, Varese (Italy). The Siberian Bear has baggage (broken hand, pituitary gland disorder) but he's 7-5 and gets up and down the court well. With the lack of talent the Hawks have assembled, he's a gamble that must be taken. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks Land at No.6 (5-27-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8407.shtml

Hawks News (5-27-04) Hawks coaching job has two faces: It's a big bust or a big chance (5-27-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/28hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-27-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4731.shtml ATLANTA: Hawks, Howard Deep Sixed The look on Billy Knight's face said it all. No words necessary. Almost a look of "Why did I even come?" "We didn't drop," Knight said, shrugging his shoulders. Until the Washington Wizards slipped from a potential third pick in the draft to the fifth spot, the draft order rang as true as the season-ending records each team had, almost as if scripted that way. Gone were Atlanta's hopes of leaping to #1 or #1 as their name was read by Deputy Commissioner Russ Granik at #6. Out the window were the hopes of landing the University of Connecticut's Emeka Okafor. And the dreams of Dwight Howard becoming the next LeBron James as hometown boy makes good? Gone, too ..... Howard is likely headed out to L.A. or Chicago to play under the bright lights of the big city rather than hanging in his hometown to play in the shadows of the Braves. So what now for the Hawks? This should be an easy formula. They could trade the pick. "We're going to look into everything," Knight said. "We're going to look at all of the options and trading it is obviously an option. We'll consider that. We're still evaluating what we're going to do ... We obviously don't know." They actually might not know ... that's the bewilderment written all over Knight's face as his team's name was read aloud. They have no coach (too bad there wasn't a lottery for that selection process). They barely have a core unit around which to build. And the pickings are slim at best, even in the top ten, but moreso as you continue down the line. There is no clear cut superstar this year, making it not only difficult to select anyone that has that perfect fit, but making the pick just as unattractive to potential suitors willing to part with a quality veteran or two for it. Lady luck is completely ignoring the Hawks for some reason. All the more reason they could throw caution to the wind and select nearby Smyrna product Josh Smith, since Howard will be out of the green room, area and zip codes by the time the Hawks pick. At 6'8" Smith has been drawing comparisons to Toronto's Vince Carter, described as "an explosive athlete who can jump out of the gym." There are others who label him as "quite simply a freak of nature. There are few that have the NBA skills that he naturally possesses at this moment." "We’ve got the sixth pick and that’s where we were when we came here. So, we’re still in the same spot. It would’ve been nice to move up. We didn’t move up. We’ll just go forward from this position on. There’s nothing else you can do," lamented Knight. I think you could really gamble on a player like a Josh Smith, though. After all, after the last few seasons, what more do you really have to lose? Fans? Hey, once the Braves wrap up, basketball season starts. And forget Michael Vick ... Smith is someone who could hit it out of the park for Atlanta and the Hawks. Right from the get-go. ------------------------------------------------------------ Draw means Bulls' best bet is a trade (5-27-04). http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sp...0405270382may27,1,3110087.column?coll=cs-basketball-print Even No. 2 would have been terrific. No, the Bulls wouldn't have taken Howard, the top high school player. But teams like him, especially the hometown Atlanta Hawks. It would have put the Bulls in position to trade down to No. 6 and get something from Atlanta, perhaps their two draft picks at Nos. 6 and 17 and a veteran scorer like Jason Terry. Maybe Atlanta would have taken one of the Bulls' bad contracts, like that of Scottie Pippen or Eddie Robinson. It also would have given the Bulls a trade exception and the right to acquire someone for a future draft pick without matching salary. Sam Smith's mock NBA draft: 6 Atlanta Devin Harris Wisconsin 6-3 185 COMMENT: Going to the Clippers, who need guards 17 Atlanta-b Sebastian Telfair Lincoln (NY) HS 5-11 170 COMMENT: Exciting point guard ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Chad Ford (5-27-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5283#bottom Tyler (Lansing Michigan): Do you think it is possible for the Atlanta Hawks to get both Dwight Howard and Josh Smith. Do you think they will be willing to trade their 17th pick with Jason Terry to the Clippers. Chad Ford: It's an intersting theory. Howard and Smith were AAU teammates and would form a nice nucleus to build around. Terry is unhappy in Atlanta and the Clippers need a point guard and have the cap room to absorb his contract. But, I think the Hawks have to be careful here. The Bulls paid dearly for drafting two unproven high school kids in the lottery. They still haven' recovered. High school kids need to be surrounded by veterans who know how to win. I think you're putting a lot of undue pressure on Howard and Smith to turnaround the team if you bring them in together. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE LINKS (5-27-04). http://slamonline.com/links/05242004/ The Hawks -- my Hawks -- once again finished out of the money. The order for the top seven goes like this, with my completely uneducated guesses as to who will be picked... 6. Atlanta Hawks -- Andris Biedrins: If the Hawks stay at the six, why not draft Andris? He's big (6-11) and strong, and they can throw him into the line-up immediately. ------------------------------------------------------------ 'Guarantees: The Best and Worst' (5-27-04. http://www.thetandd.com/articles/2004/05/2...rts/sports3.txt THE WORST: (2002) Atlanta Hawks' Coach Lon Kruger guarantees the Hawks will make the playoffs for that season. Things were looking up for the Hawks in before the 2002 season signing Glenn Robinson, and Kruger said that his team would make the playoffs. He was so sure that he promised a $125 refund to all season ticket holders if he failed to deliver. Robinson did not play up to his potential and Kruger was fired after Christmas. The Hawks finished seven games out of the playoff race and had to pay the residuals. ------------------------------------------------------------ Five Forwards to Take Part in Friday’s Workout (5-27-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workouts_040528.html Knight Comments Following Draft Lottery. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/knight_comments_040526.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks were No. 1 pick for Howard (5-27-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/0504/27howard.html

Hawks News (5-26-04) No Howard for Atlanta? Hawks get No. 6 pick (5-26-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...draftorder.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Once Again, Tanking Prevails (5-26-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=447 ------------------------------------------------------------ DIME: NBA mock draft, version 2.0 (5-26-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2435582 6. Atlanta Hawks — Josh Smith, SF, 6'8" 214 - Smith is an Atlanta native and the best athlete, hands-down, in the draft. His leaping ability makes for some ridiculous dunks, and though thin, he's got the kind of height the Hawks could use in the post. He's got a nice jumper (think Vince with a better pull-up), but he needs to work on his handle and put on some weight. He's a project, but then again, so are the Hawks. At the very least, he'll sell some seats for the hometown. 17. Atlanta Hawks (via Bucks) — Sebastian Telfair, PG, 6'0" 175 - This would be a perfect fit for the Hawks if Telfair falls this far. Adding the point guard phenom from Brooklyn will sell tickets in an arena that's almost perpetually empty. Plus, the Hawks are shopping Jason Terry. However, on the flip side, Telfair is small and inexperienced, and years away from NBA success. ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-26-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4721.shtml ATLANTA: One Man Can Make A Difference The Atlanta Hawks have so many holes on their team that its been difficult deciding where to begin. For now, the team has concentrated its efforts on the draft while letting the head coaching vacancy take a backseat to filling up their roster (which currently only possesses five guaranteed contracts for next season). The Hawks though should reconsider their current efforts and take the Utah Jazz as their model for "success" next season, as they too were a team with holes in their roster and plenty of cap room to spend. In the end, all the problems took care of themselves as the team rallied behind a strong coach, something the Hawks should consider. For certain teams in the league, money can rectify their problems. Unfortunately for the Hawks, that option isn't really an option as Atlanta is probably one of the least desirable free agent destinations this offseason given the team's financial insecurities and sagging attendance problems. Still, given that sentiment, the Hawks will likely acquire a few mid-level free agents, on whom they will overpay for, while injecting this team with some much needed talent, but it won't be enough. To put it bluntly, there is little, if anything, that the Hawks can do this offseason to turn it around completely, but the one move they can make that can make inroads to a turnaround for the future is with their head coaching hire. While the General Manager Billy Knight has stated that hiring a head coach will be a timely process, he has seemingly narrowed down his list to a few choice contenders. On the top is a familiar face, Mike Fratello, who compiled 572-465 record with the Hawks from 1983-90. His possible return to Atlanta should bring excitement to a franchise that has had little in recent times. Fratello not only brings experience and success to the table but he also carries a strong, dominating personality that affects his team in every way. While those traits may hurt some squads, for the Hawks, who have little to build on, it could provide a foundation that creates a winning and positive identity for this team. As Jerry Sloan did for the Utah Jazz this past season, Fratello can do for the Hawks similarly next season. Other possible candidates can have a similar impact as well, underscoring the importance of the head coaching hire and the necessity of speeding up this process of hiring a head coach so that the Hawks can began to rebuild their franchise.

Quote: Have they said who's going tonight? I'm assuming it's billy knight again right? Would be funny if it was harry the hawk. that would be hilarious I can just see all the GMs shaking his hand if we won... lol Yes it is Billy Knight according to Hawks.com. That would be enjoyable however to see Atlanta's mascot representing the team at the lottery. It would be all these respected NBA general managers and owners and then all of a sudden you see "Harry the Hawk."

Hawks News (5-25-04) Lottery luck has eluded Hawks (5-25-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/h...04/26hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Pre-Draft Workout, May 25. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workout_040525.html Prospects Kirk Snyder, Ricky Minard and Luke Jackson listen to the coaches. ------------------------------------------------------------ DIME: NBA mock draft, version 1.0 (5-25-04). http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2431502 5. Atlanta Hawks — Andris Biedrins, C, 7'0" 238 - Of course, the Hawks are high on Atlanta native Dwight Howard, but chances are he won't fall this far (though don't be surprised if they trade up). The Hawks can't pass up Biedrins. He's the best player available at this spot, and he fills a big-man void left open by the Theo Ratliff trade. Think of Biedrins, 18, as a less athletic Darko, but with better shot-blocking skills. Plus, he's left-handed and strong. 17. Atlanta Hawks (via Bucks) — Sebastian Telfair, PG, 6'0" 175 - This would be a perfect fit for the Hawks if Telfair falls this far. Adding the point guard phenom from Brooklyn will sell tickets in an arena that's almost perpetually empty. Plus, the Hawks are shopping Jason Terry. However, on the flip side, Telfair is small and inexperienced, and years away from NBA success. ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-25-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4713.shtml ATLANTA: Benjamins Or Jacksons? Which Will Rebuild The Hawks? The Atlanta Hawks are in turmoil. Not only do they still not have a coach lined up, though they are working out players left and right on a daily basis, but their core group is anorexic at best. They finished the 2003-04 season with only Jason Terry, Chris Crawford and Stephen Jackson as their best impact players. Sure, rookies Boris Diaw and Travis Hansen were getting more looks, but that's because there was practically no one remaining, unless Terry Stotts were to suit up. Ending the season on the injured list were enough players to form another scrimmage team in Obinna Ekezie (torn right anterior cruciate ligament), Alan Henderson (lower back strain), Wesley Person (strained right hip flexor), Joel Pryzbilla (left patella tendinitis) and Zeljko Rebraca (lower back soreness). Now they seem on the verge of losing Jackson to the highest bidder through free agency. I mean, who really wants to stick around on a team that finished a woeful 28-54 and still doesn't have a coach? History shows (see NEWSLINES below) that the Hawks have always taken a back seat in Atlanta, even amongst their own residents. So how about the University of Oregon's Luke Jackson? Being highly recruited by Major League Baseball as well as working out for NBA teams (including the Hawks today), Jackson could find this baseball town the perfect fit ..... just in case those Hawks soar down the path of mediocrity once again. Surely the Hawks, if they get one of the top five picks in the draft, wouldn't pop it on the Duck-of-all-trades right off the bat, as local phenoms Dwight Howard or Josh Smith could conceivably still be in the mix for the Hawks to grab. But when they pick again at #17, there's still a distinct possibility that ol' Luke will be there waiting to don a Braves, er, Hawks jersey (which ever suits him best). With the attempt to get a high draft pick signed and signing another first-rounder like Oregon's Jackson, plus trying to lure an established veteran or two to Atlanta, one has to wonder if the Hawks will have nothing but Andrew Jacksons left to throw Stephen Jackson's way. That's not enough to keep someone who went from a championship ring to darn near the cellar of the Eastern Conference to want to stay. Though 'benjamins' may be the only way to get people to actually come to Atlanta to play professional basketball instead of watch or work out for baseball, keeping a couple of Jacksons in their fold may not hurt either --- especially if they're names Stephen and Luke. ------------------------------------------------------------ MVP Garnett coming to BJCC (5-25-04). http://www.al.com/sports/birminghamnews/in...47660158950.xml Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kevin Garnett, the NBA's reigning MVP, will make an appearance in the Magic City this fall. The Timberwolves will meet the Atlanta Hawks in an NBA exhibition game on Oct. 14 at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, game organizers confirmed Monday. All-Star Week Inc. will sponsor the game as part of the Be-bop, Boddie, Pearlie All-Star Week in the Magic City festivities. All-Star Week Inc. also sponsored the Hawks' exhibition game against the Miami Heat in Birmingham in 2002. William Roy Sims Jr. of All-Star Week Inc. said the group's aim is to make an NBA exhibition game a fall tradition in Birmingham. "Our goal is for the Hawks to play a preseason game in Birmingham every year," said Sims, a Birmingham native. The Hawks-Timberwolves game is the fourth exhibition game sponsored by All-Star Week Inc. All the games have showcased the Hawks. The Hawks met the L.A. Clippers in Montgomery in 1996, the Celtics in 1999 in Biloxi, Miss., and the Heat in Birmingham two years ago. The Hawks-Heat meeting drew a crowd of 9,000 to the BJCC, the largest crowd of any of the games that All-Star Week Inc. has sponsored, Sims said. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE LINKS (5-25-04). http://slamonline.com/links/05242004/ Last night's Pistons/Pacers game did something to me. I tried to watch it. I saw big chunks of the game pass me by, and did my best to stay interested. My notebook was out, the Bic was uncapped and poised, but...I just didn't recognize the game being played. That game last night, that was not my NBA. I was so despondent after last night's game that I went digging in the crates, where I unearthed a tape of the Hawks/Celtics Eastern Conference Semifinals Game Seven from 1988. Dominique vs. Bird. If you've never seen the game, it's on ESPN Classic occasionally. I called in a favor a few years ago from a friend at the NBA and got a copy of the game, which is the original CBS broadcast, featuring Brent Musberger and Tommy Heinsohn, and it even includes the between-timeout chatter between the two. I remember watching the game as a kid, sitting on the floor in front of the TV and realizing as things exploded in the fourth quarter that I was witnessing something amazing. Musberger actually said something about people in Atlanta being glued to their TV sets, and when I heard him say it again last night I transported back to that exact moment 16 years ago. And I remember being heartbroken when it ended. Since that day, though, I hadn't watched it again. Until last night. A few general things I noticed. -- The Hawks got screwed by the refs down the stretch. I probably suspected as much back then, but now I know for sure. -- The Celtics had four starters who simply couldn't run -- McHale, Bird, Parrish and the point guard, Dennis Johnson -- and they still managed to look faster than the Hawks throughout the second half. DJ backed the ball down the court on almost every possession in the fourth. -- I'm not sure what Mike Fratello was doing. You know how Larry Bird and Dominique get into that one-on-one shootout in the fourth quarter? Fratello did his best to avoid it, trying to run plays for everyone other than Nique, who would then catch the ball and make everything he tossed up. -- During time-outs, there is no loud music playing, no cheerleaders firing t-shirts into the crowd. Just organ music. And with about 1:30 left, after Bird drains a long three pointer right in Nique's face, the crowd stands and cheers throughout the time-out. -- At one point Fratello cleared out the entire court except for Doc Rivers and DJ -- and he had the eight other players all standing along one sideline. (Of course, that won't happen again now that illegal defense is no more.) -- The whole duel between Nique and Bird happens so quickly that it's almost easy to miss. They only go back and fourth on a few baskets, even though they both make every shot they take. Fratello never really leans on Nique, though. Bird goes for 20 in the fourth and the Celts win by two, 118-116. What makes it a great game are all the Wow plays. Bird throwing in runners, Nique going glass from obscene angles. Bird finished with 34 points, Nique with 47 (on 19-23 from the field). And it's not like guys weren't defending Bird and Nique. They were just great players. Hell, that entire Celtics team was great.

Hawks News (5-24-04) Talented Quartet to Work Out Tuesday (5-24-04). http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workouts_040525.html ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST (5-24-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4705.shtml ATLANTA: $30 Million Is A Lot Of Money The Atlanta Hawks have more than just finding a new head coach to worry about - they also have to think about where to spend their huge surplus of cash. There is good news: The Hawks have five players under contract for next season and five draft picks. All of that guaranteed money comes to about $18 million for seven players. Assuming the second round picks sign on and make the team, that gives the Hawks roughly $27-28 million to spend and only two to four roster spots to fill. Don't think Billy Knight has been looking forward to the coming spending spree with huge dollar signs in his eyes? Jennifer Lopez would be jealous of the kind of scratch he has to blow. Of course the key, and the part that makes it not fun, is the idea of spending money wisely. What the Hawks need to do is identify some players worthy enough to earn max money. That's a problem in itself because there aren't many in free agency this year. If the Hawks are serious about putting a competitive team on the floor and landing three stars with their big bucks, they may have to overpay. There are a decent number of players out there with good credentials who will be restricted free agents. The Hawks will gladly dare a lot of teams to match exorbitant deals and could find themselves with pretty good players. Like who? How about Kenyon Martin? The Nets have balked at the idea of offering K-Mart max money, but the Hawks won't. They'll give Martin as much as he wants and dare the Nets to match it. How about Jamal Crawford? The Bulls would likely not match any sizable offer (anything starting at $6 million+ per year) for Crawford. Quentin Richardson? Darius Miles? All of those guys might be enticed to sign in Atlanta if the dollars are right. Of course, there are some second-tier players from that same 2000 draft that might also be willing to come to Hotlanta for the right price. The Memphis Grizzlies would let Stromile Swift go if the Hawks offered him anything more than $5 million a year. Of course all of that is moot if the Hawks somehow convince Kobe Bryant to come, or make a trade for Allen Iverson. Could any of that happen? Yes, it could, and it just might. It wouldn't surprise anyone to see the Hawks come out of August butting heads with the salary cap once again, but fully reloaded. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks Likely to Pick up Option on Hansen for 2004-2005 (5-24-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=445 2004 Hawks Pre-Draft Workout #3 (5-24-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=444 ------------------------------------------------------------ The NBA Lottery Can Turn a Team's Fortune Around (5-24-04). http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/art.../405240366/1002 At the top of the lottery list right now is Emeka Okafor, a 6foot-9 shot-blocking forward who led Connecticut to the NCAA championship, and 6-11 high school star Dwight Howard. The winner of Wednesday night's NBA Lottery might face the classic choice of a mature player who is ready to help now, or a bigger, younger player with a better chance to be a superstar in three or four years. It might not be a difficult decision for the Atlanta Hawks, who see some LeBron James in the Atlanta-raised Howard. It would be a tough choice for the Magic, who need front-court defensive help immediately after a 21-61 season. ------------------------------------------------------------ Bulls to take peek at Leon Smith (5-24-04). http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sp.../cs-040525bulls,1,346367.story?coll=cs-home-headlines

Hawks News (5-23-04) Ex-aide Musselman now doesn't fit Hawks (5-23-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/0504/23nbanotes.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Picks and pans: Lots of mystery, no excitement (5-23-04). http://www.suntimes.com/output/banks/cst-spt-banx23.html The NBA draft sure ain't what it used to be. Once upon a time, the annual draft was an exciting jobfest, with 23 teams selecting 230 players, many of whom were established college stars, over 10 rounds. There was great anticipation. But since 1989, the draft not only has been reduced to two rounds, it has become dominated by unknown players because of an influx of high school stars, college underclassmen and foreign players of limited fame. This year, a record 56 college underclassmen and high school players and 38 international players have applied for the June 24 draft. ''Some may say this is decreasing the excitement of the draft, but I prefer to see these changes as a source of a new or different excitement,'' Atlanta Hawks operations chief Billy Knight said. ''It's more exciting because it's more unknown. But the truth is that the NBA has become more of a developmental league in itself. Because players are coming into the league younger and less experienced, we are charged with developing them as players and as people. We are teaching them a lot of things they used to have to learn in college on and off the court. ''A lot of teams are hiring developmental coaches like we have done in Armond Hill. These guys are not just helping us develop a player's jump shot or develop his body, they are helping in every aspect of personal development. This includes how to shop for clothes, being courteous to your girlfriend and learning how to conduct yourself in restaurants, in interviews, with fans and the general public.'' ------------------------------------------------------------ Back to his beginnings (5-23-04). http://morningsun.net/stories/052304/spo_20040523002.shtml

Hawks News (5-22-04) Sonics assistant Casey interviews with Hawks (5-22-04). http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/spor...805_soni22.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hard choices ahead (5-22-04). http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/basketb.../sfl-ira23may23,0,4248653.column?coll=sfla-sports-col Despite a commitment to broadcast the Western Conference finals for TNT, Heat television analyst Mike Fratello apparently will interview for Atlanta's coaching vacancy. Fratello had a 572-465 record as Hawks coach from 1983 to 1990. Atlanta has interviewed Sonics assistant Dwane Casey, Mavericks assistant Del Harris and Nuggets assistant John McLeod. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks/Thrashers CEO Bernie Mullin realizes sports dreams in U.S. (5-22-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/0504/23mullin.html

Hawks News (5-21-04) Hawks to consider Fratello (5-21-04). http://www.ajc.com/friday/content/epaper/e...12211c00cd.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Ten things we learned this week in the NBA (5-21-04). http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/7348570 10. Item: The one rumor that continues to persist during the coaching search for the Atlanta Hawks is Mike Fratello, the color analyst for Turner's coverage of the NBA and the coach of the Hawks from 1983-90. Fratello, 57, has not coached since the Cleveland Cavaliers fired him following the 1998-99 season. What it really means: The new ownership of the Hawks -- "The Spirit" -- is determined to bring some semblance of pride and interest back to the Hawks. Fratello was their coach during the best run in club history, averaging more than 52 victories from 1985-88, and he's still a popular figure there today. His star, Dominique Wilkins, is in the front office, and to put people in the seats of beautiful new Philips Arena is no easy task. To hire aging but talented guys like Del Harris (65) or John MacLeod (63) wouldn't necessarily be disastrous as much as boring. At least bringing back Fratello would provide some cachet for the organization. And in that nightmare of a sports town with a terrible team to boot, anything will help. Even Mikey. ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-21-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4681.shtml ATLANTA The Hawks Roll On: Don't panic Hawks fans, those of you still lingering around the arena anyway. The future looks bright in the A-T-L with star player Jason Terry enthusiastic about the new ownership of the Atlanta Hawks. Terry said way back in the middle of the season that he was excited about what a new face up front could bring and the owners seem ready and willing to turn things around. There are basketball fans among them now, with owner Michael Gearon Jr. in the driver’s seat of a club in need of a push. Terry blamed many problems on former ownership and the drawn out sale of the team this past season was detrimental to the on-court product. He's as happy as anybody else that it is over but really, it's just the beginning for a franchise still swimming in deep waters. The coaching search is the first order of business and while the Hawks are well into the process names keep surfacing as possibilities for what is still considered a good situation. NBA people like hot weather and Atlanta has it, as well as some exciting players and money to spend. They've interviewed Del Harris, an assistant coach with the Dallas Mavericks, and John McLeod who is an assistant with the Denver Nuggets but that's only the tip. Recently, TV analyst and former Hawks coach Mike Fratello had his name thrown into the mix. Fratello was up for the same job in Charlotte with the Hornets last season but stepped out of the running when he thought the process was dragging. He also appears to be in the running for that job again with Tim Floyd being fired in New Orleans, Hawks GM Billy Knight has already said the search for a head coach may take a long time and the team has made moves to go ahead with player tryouts and draft plans in case they don't have a coach in place before June 24, the day of the NBA draft. That's not at all a bad thing. Ideally you would like to have a coach in place for workouts and the draft but the decision to draft a player is mostly in the hands of the GM and his staff. Considering the base the Hawks are working with, they will likely select the best player available when their selection comes up, regardless of position. The Hawks need help everywhere. That includes at the gate. Atlantans have always kept a strange distance from their NBA team and for a while many thought it was because of their old digs. But when the brand new Philips Center was built fans stayed sparse. Clearly the people are waiting on a winner and Gearon Jr. seems young enough (he's 39) to have the drive and is "fan" enough to care. That will have a trickle down effect that will be good for the players and fans who have watched the team take its share of hits this millennium. If young is the theme then recently fired Golden State Warriors head coach Eric Musselman could be a perfect fit. He comes highly praised for his work in Golden State and will come relatively cheap. He'll also be looking to prove himself which, of course, would make him to fit right in. Terry Stotts was fired as head coach on May 6. ------------------------------------------------------------ Riley unveils plans for the future (5-21-04). http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews.../8728145.htm?1c FRATELLO IN MIX? Heat television analyst Mike Fratello is reportedly a candidate for the Atlanta Hawks and New Orleans Hornets coaching jobs. Fratello, who previously coached the Hawks, has expressed a desire to return to coaching. ------------------------------------------------------------ Pettit is one of St. Louis' biggest sports stars (5-21-04). http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/co...st+sports+stars ------------------------------------------------------------ Focus on Big Men for Saturday’s Draft Workouts. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workouts_040521.html

Hawks News (5-20-04) Pre-Draft Workout, May 20. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workouts_040520.html ------------------------------------------------------------ 2004 Hawks Pre-Draft Workout #2 (5-20-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=443 ------------------------------------------------------------ NEWS@ SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-20-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4676.shtml ATLANTA: No Coach, No Plan, No Problem: The Atlanta Hawks intend to sign their new coach after they've finished with the draft lottery. If they get extraordinarily lucky and coaches see more in this year's draft than most pundits and scouts have, they could bring in a top three pick and a top coach with it. More likely than not, they'll just blow the one enticement they had to convince a coach to join them. The Hawks management is looking increasingly confused and confusing, working out and, presumably, drafting players before they have a coach. As such, they'll have to hire a coach whose system fits the players they have, not the other way around. Firing Terry Stotts blew any momentum the Hawks had after a solid end to their season. The fun, fluid basketball Stotts got from his players in their last few games might have attracted either a veteran looking for a nice team to retire with or an energetic young player who wanted to play fast and furious. The miasma left by the continued coaching vacancy will only drive those same free agents away. Possible coaches, including Denver assistant John MacLeod and Seattle associate head coach Dwane Casey, can't be happy about entering a situation where they won't have any input into personnel decisions - and how else can they interpret the Hawks' decision to draft before they hire? Forget putting an effective team on next year's floor. At this rate, the Hawks need credibility just to stay afloat in the NBA. ------------------------------------------------------------ MacLeod upbeat about Hawks job (5-20-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2159552,00.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Marty Burns: Rasheed's one defining moment (5-20-04). http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/writ....game7/?cnn=yes MacLeod says age is no issue: Veteran coach John MacLeod interviewed for the vacant Atlanta Hawks coaching position Wednesday. He met for four hours with GM Billy Knight and CEO Bernie Mullin. The Hawks already have talked to Mavs assistant Del Harris and reportedly plan to interview Sonics assistant Dwane Casey. MacLeod, 66, is hoping to ride the success of other recent old-timers who've been hired for top coaching jobs. Though he hasn't been an NBA head coach since '91, he ranks 14th on the league's all-time victory list (707). He led the Suns to the NBA Finals in '76, and has spent the past two years as an associate head coach in Denver. "I've got a lot of juice. Sixty-six is just a number," MacLeod told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "How's [Federal Reserve Chairman] Alan Greenspan doing? All right? What about [Florida Marlins coach] Jack McKeon? [Kansas City Chiefs coach] d*ck Vermeil? [Dallas Cowboys coach] Bill Parcells? Age is a state of mind. They want a veteran, experienced coach with a proven track record, and I've got that." Apparently, MacLeod felt he didn't even have to mention the one other noted old guy who did pretty well after a long layoff from the head coaching ranks: NBA Coach of the Year Hubie Brown. ------------------------------------------------------------ MacLeod touts coaching experience (5-20-04). http://www.ajc.com/thursday/content/epaper...12f13800f2.html ------------------------------------------------------------ McIntosh Finishes Workout with Atlanta Hawks (5-20-04). http://www.georgiastate.com/home/p_home.cf...eleaseid=101397 ------------------------------------------------------------ Boylan joins Bulls as assistant to Skiles (5-20-04). http://www.dailyherald.com/sports/sports_s...?intID=38127150

Hawks News (5-19-04) NEWS@ THE SOUTHEAST DIVISION (5-19-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/member/article_4664.shtml ATLANTA: Could the Hawks Land Steve Francis? The Atlanta Hawks are in a tight spot. Their would-be star player is a tweener, and they are looking for a new head coach to try and make the team a contender. So let’s throw this out there. The talk in Houston is that Steve Francis won’t be back. The Rockets are finally realizing that Steve Francis and Yao Ming cannot co-exist in the same starting lineup, and clearly Yao Ming will be the one the Rockets choose to build their franchise around. With the possibility of trading Francis on the table, the Rockets will be looking to send him East to avoid having to see him all the time. Why not Atlanta? Steve Francis is not a great team player. He takes too many shots and dribbles the ball too much. In a lineup that features Cuttino Mobley and Yao Ming that’s a bad fit. In a lineup like the Hawks have, that could be just what they need. Considering the Hawks will have a high draft pick and could land a key big man, they could afford to send Jason Terry and one of their surplus big men to Houston for Steve Francis. Give up Jason Terry?? Well, let’s face it. Terry is a tweener. He’s a little too big to be a traditional point guard. He’s a little too small to play the three. Why not allow the Rockets to work on converting him to a point guard and take the scoring punch and All-Star credentials that Steve Francis would bring. Jason Terry can do what Francis cannot. Namely, he can hit the open three with regularity. Yao Ming would create a steady diet of open threes for Terry, and that would make him a much better fit in the Houston system than Francis is. In turn, Francis’ scoring ability would be better utilized in the East, where the front line players are less intimidating and he would have pretty much free reign to drive and put up as many shots as he can get up. It seems like a favorable situation for both the Hawks and Rockets if a deal can be struck that sends Houston a package that balances the deal. TEAM NOTES: The Hawks have 104 chances of winning one of the top three picks in the draft. Yesterday the Hawks worked out: Michael Haynes, Herve Lamizana, James Moore, and Damir Omerhodzic. NEWSLINES: The Hawks began their pre-draft workouts on Tuesday, and Hawks.com has quotes from all of the players who were in town, as well as GM Billy Knight. "The guys did a good job today in a lot of different ways," said Knight. "It’s a tough process because you’re out there with only a couple other guys and you’re asked to go over a lot of things. There’s quite a few different drills we ask them to do, shooting the ball, handling the ball and a lot of other things. So it can be a tough process on them. It can be pressure-packed. I appreciate the work they put in today." ------------------------------------------------------------ Seven Game 7s to Remember: Basketball (5-19-04). http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/maga...me7_basketball/ 1. NBA Finals, April 13, 1957, Boston Celtics vs. St. Louis Hawks, Boston Garden During the second OT, long-legged Celtics rookie Bill Russell disentangled himself from the basket support after missing a layup, ran upcourt and blocked a shot by the Hawks' Jack Coleman. "Greatest play I ever saw," said Tom Heinsohn. Established stars Bob Cousy and Bill Sharman made only five of 40 shots, but the kids (Russell had 19 points and 32 rebounds, Heinsohn 37 and 23 rebounds) led the way to a 125-123 victory. 6. Eastern Conference Semifinals, May 22, 1988, Boston Celtics vs. Atlanta Hawks, Boston Garden The game turned into such a two-man shootout that it's known as "the Bird and Dominique Game." The Human Highlight Film, Dominique Wilkins, was never better, pulling out an endless variety of dunks, spin shots and jumpers banked high off the board to finish with 47 points. But Larry Bird scored 20 of his 34 in the fourth period as the Celtics won 118-116. ------------------------------------------------------------ Older coaches retreads then, trendy now (5-19-04). http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/7342963 Hubie Brown, the 2004 NBA coach of the year, made no bones about it. Returning to the sidelines as coach of the Memphis Grizzlies at the age of 69 was no easy task. "You just can't do things the same way you did at 50," Brown said. "You have to eat better. Sleep better. You just have to take care of yourself better. That's all part of it." What he didn't say was that he would coach better, but maybe that's the case. In any event, that's all part of the search for greater truth in coaching these days. Just look at the search going on in Atlanta to replace deposed Terry Stotts. Their top two candidates appear to be Del Harris, 65; and John MacLeod, 63. You can call them mere pups when compared to Brown. And if you look around the league at successful coaches, it isn't that hard to figure out why the Hawks may be going in this direction. ------------------------------------------------------------ Chat wrap: Dr. Jack Ramsey (5-19-04). http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=5259 clgj/wa: for real how good can bob sura be? where will he play next year? Dr. Jack Ramsay: Sura was at his best with the Hawks...a bad team. But he did just about double his previous numbers...minutes, points - almost 15 a game - rebounds, assists. I regard Bob as a good backup 2-guard...his performance this season may place him in higher regard around the league. Todd (Macon, Georgia): Dear Dr, Jack, Who do you think the Hawks are leaning towards at this point to be Atlanta's next coach? Thanks. Dr. Jack Ramsay: I haven't talked to anyone at Atlanta...but I hear Del Harris and John McLeod being mentioned. There aren't any high profile coaches who will take on the rebuilding job that the Hawks need. If not a veteran coach anxious to get back to a head coaching job...they'll take an assistant who has done good things. ------------------------------------------------------------ Lamont McIntosh Works Out for Atlanta Hawks Thursday (5-19-04). http://www.georgiastate.com/home/p_home.cf...eleaseid=101392 ------------------------------------------------------------ Warriors fire Musselman (5-19-04). http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/bask...n.ap/index.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Bulls Name Jim Boylan Assistant Coach (5-19-04). http://www.nba.com/bulls/news/boylan_040519.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Let's see who's overpaid, underpaid (5-19-04). http://www.tcpalm.com/tcp/sports/article/0,1651,TCP_1154_2898758,00.html So, let's go through SI's list and see who is overpaid or underpaid: 47. Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Portland Trail Blazers - $14,000,000: Overpaid. That's why the pathetic Atlanta Hawks traded him. ------------------------------------------------------------ Pre-Draft Workouts Continue on Thursday. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workouts_040520.html

Hawks News (5-18-04) Hawks Begin Pre-Draft Workouts, May 18. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/draft2004_workouts_040518.html ------------------------------------------------------------ 2004 Hawks Pre-Draft Workout #1 (5-18-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=442 Praying for a Good Knight (5-18-04). http://hawks.realgm.com/showarticle.php?artid=441 ------------------------------------------------------------ MacLeod to check Hawks' interest (5-18-04). http://www.ajc.com/tuesday/content/epaper/...1c7193003c.html ------------------------------------------------------------ MacLeod "excited" about Hawks job (5-18-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2154755,00.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks to interview MacLeod (5-18-04). http://www.accessnorthga.com/news/hall/new...ry.asp?ID=81512 ------------------------------------------------------------ Expansion draft means Mavs have strategic decisions ahead (5-18-04). http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dw...lede.b6b42.html Harris talks with Hawks: Del Harris has talked with the Atlanta Hawks about their vacant coaching position, a source close to the situation confirmed Tuesday. Harris is one of several candidates for the Hawks' job, which likely will not be filled until June. Several other hopefuls, including Denver assistant coach and former Mavericks coach John MacLeod and Seattle assistant Dwayne Casey, also are expected to interview. ------------------------------------------------------------ Notebook: Kings' Peeler will miss Game 7 vs. T-wolves (5-18-04). http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/spor...nbanotes18.html Sonics' Casey will meet with Atlanta Hawks tomorrow: The Sonics granted permission to associate head coach Dwane Casey to speak with Atlanta about the Hawks' vacant coaching position. Casey, whose contract with Seattle expires next month, is expected to meet with the Hawks tomorrow. He is among several candidates for the job, including Dallas assistant Del Harris and Denver associate head coach John MacLeod. Atlanta fired Terry Stotts, a former Sonics assistant who worked with Casey, on May 6. The Hawks reportedly would like to hire a coach before July 1. Last year, Casey interviewed with the Toronto Raptors and was linked to the opening in Milwaukee. He has spent 10 years in Seattle and assumed his current position in 2000. A Sonics spokesperson said yesterday that coach Nate McMillan and the front office have yet to decide if the contracts of Casey and the three other assistants, which also expire in a few weeks, will be renewed. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (5-18-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8315.shtml Atlanta Hawks: The fact that Atlanta doesn't have a head coach yet is not stopping them from bringing in players for workouts starting today. Here's who the Hawks will work out today: swingman Michael Haynes of Fordham, shot-blocking center Herve Lamizana of Rutgers, forward James Moore of New Mexico State, and Croatian forward Damir Omerhodzic who is said to have NBA three-point range. They will also start interviewing Denver's John MacLeod for the head coaching position today through Thursday, and then Seattle's Dwane Casey later in the week.

Hawks News (5-17-04) THE DAILY (5-17-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8304.shtml Atlanta Hawks: With the long-anticipated dismissal of Terry Stotts as head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta general manager Billy Knight put himself in the unenviable task of finding the team not only a replacement, but an established name and reputation that people will want to follow and free agents will flock to Atlanta to play for. He needs that established person for his new owners to get potential return on their investment and pry fans away from the Braves and Falcons long enough to put the Hawks back on the NBA map for the first time since the days of Dominique Wilkins. Unfortunately, this isn't Tampa or Dallas, nor is it football and it's likely that today's NBA players could withstand the likes of a Bill Parcells or a Jon Gruden. About the only skipper that could truly match the mettle of these gridiron greats is already calling the shots and turning around a struggling franchise across the way in Memphis, Tennessee. ------------------------------------------------------------ NBADraft.net 2004 NBA Mock Draft (5-17-04). http://nbadraft.net/index.asp (6) Atlanta - Devin Harris (Wisconsin) (17) Atlanta - Luke Jackson (Oregon) (35) Atlanta - Roko-Leni Ukic (38) Atlanta - Lawrence Roberts (Mississippi State) (43) Atlanta - Chris Duhon (Duke) ------------------------------------------------------------ InsideHoops.com 2004 NBA Mock Draft (5-17-04). http://insidehoops.com/nba-mock-draft.shtml (6) Atlanta - Josh Smith (17) Atlanta - Kris Humphries (Minnesota) ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks to Start 2004 Pre-Draft Workouts on Tuesday. http://www.nba.com/hawks/news/predraft_workouts_040518.html

Hawks News (5-16-04) Hawks bringing in Harris for interview (5-16-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/h...04/17hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ NBA gray without Green (5-16-04). http://celtics.bostonherald.com/celtics/vi...articleid=28062 Senior discount: Looks like septuagenarian Hubie Brown is a trend setter - at least as far as the Hawks are concerned. Word is Atlanta is looking heavily at Del Harris and John MacLeod (among others) as a replacement for the deposed Terry Stotts. Harris and MacLeod are 65 and 66 respectively. Stotts is a relative whippersnapper at 46. The Hawks would rather have avoided firing Stotts before finding their guy, but coaching candidates were reluctant to interview while someone was still in possession of the job. ``We couldn't really explore further opportunities if we have an incumbent in place,'' said co-owner Michael Gearon Jr. ``People wouldn't talk to us.'' ------------------------------------------------------------ INSIDE THE NBA: Lakers haven't lost Bryant yet (5-16-04). http://www.ajc.com/sunday/content/epaper/e...e230af10f0.html Hawks seeking fans: Hawks general manager Billy Knight's lips have been sealed in regards to possible candidates for the team's vacant coaching position, which speaks volumes about how important this hire is for the franchise --- and Knight, who is in the last year of his contract with the team. The Hawks not only led the NBA in empty seats last season, but they also have perhaps the most apathetic fan base in the league. Knight is aware of the Hawks' dilemma and joked recently about what would make his decision on a new coach very simple. "We'd like to have a full house every night. If I thought somebody could do that for me, maybe I'd hire that person," Knight said before laughing. That individual doesn't exist among the current crop of candidates --- Del Harris, John MacLeod, Dwane Casey and Mike Woodson --- so don't expect Knight or the owners to pick a coach based on name, as much as ability. It'd be nice if they could do both. Hawks owner Steve Belkin said the team would like to have a new coach in place before July 1 when they can begin recruiting potential free agents. Knight said he would also like the new coach to consider keeping assistants Larry Smith, Jim Boylan and Mike McNieve, who are all under contract for another season. "I would like to keep those guys around [but] I'm not going to force someone down someone's throat," Knight said. Boylan, however, has long been rumored to be headed to Chicago, where he is good friends with Bulls coach Scott Skiles. Karl on Stotts: George Karl, the former Milwaukee Bucks coach now on "vacation" as an NBA analyst for ESPN, said he was surprised when the Hawks fired Terry Stotts on May 6. "I thought he did a quality job," Karl said. "I thought he did well with what he had to work with. It looked like the players played well for Terry. They played hard." Stotts was a longtime assistant for Karl in Seattle and Milwaukee but their professional and personal relationship ended two years ago when Karl fired Stotts after a disappointing season in Milwaukee. Stotts later joined Lon Kruger's staff as an assistant before taking over as head coach after 27 games. Karl said last week that although he and Stotts met before last season to resolve some of their differences, the former friends remain "on the outs." ------------------------------------------------------------ Olympic team hurt by player turnover (5-16-04). http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian...62217658410.xml Job search: Atlanta reportedly is interested in 65-year-old Dallas assistant Del Harris and MacLeod, 66. The Hawks also received permission from Seattle to interview assistant Dwane Casey. ------------------------------------------------------------ Money spent to acquire Sprewell was well spent (5-16-04). http://www.startribune.com/stories/507/4778538.html Jottings: Wolves assistant coach Randy Wittman played seven seasons for the Atlanta Hawks, and the word is that once the Wolves are out of the playoffs, Wittman will be interviewed for Atlanta's coaching vacancy. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hardsell zaps spirit of Olympics (5-16-04). http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/sfl-ira16may16,0,3031766.column?coll=sfla-sports-headlines SAGE PERSPECTIVE: Dismissed Hawks coach Terry Stotts has contacted Cavaliers coach Paul Silas about an assistant's vacancy on Cleveland's staff. ------------------------------------------------------------ Lakers' run similar to that of '93 Bulls (5-16-04). http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...4186mercurynews Not getting older: Former Suns, Knicks and Notre Dame coach John MacLeod, 66, says he's "full of juice, full of more juice than normal 66-year-old cats." With that MacLeod, whose assistant contract with Denver expires next month, says his time has returned to be a head coach thanks to the success of 70-year-old Hubie Brown in Memphis, and, of course, 63-year-old Larry Brown. MacLeod is interviewing with the Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors. Del Harris, 64 and coaching China's Olympic team this summer, also is said to be a candidate. "I want to have one more roll with it," said MacLeod, 707-657 as an NBA coach but out of the NBA as a head coach since 1991. "Every pro team I've coached I've gotten into the playoffs. The pendulum has swung from college coaches back to veterans with experience and a track record of success." ------------------------------------------------------------ Playoff experience will be valuable for Heat (5-15-04). http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...rts/8676947.htm Stirring things up: There was a bit of a stir in Atlanta when the Hawks didn't fire Stotts until a week after Doc Rivers, a popular former Hawks player, was hired to coach the Celtics. Hawks general manager Billy Knight said in Atlanta that "the timing just did not figure right" for the hiring of Rivers. According to reports out of Atlanta, several members of the new nine-member ownership group, Atlanta Spirit, had been reluctant to unload Stotts before knowing who would replace him, only to discover that many potential candidates would not interview for a job that was still held officially by Stotts. Knight indicated a personal preference for having a position vacant before pursuing candidates to fill it.

Hawks News (5-14-04) WITHOUT A TRACY (5-14-04). http://www.nypost.com/sports/16974.htm When Lon Kruger was excused from the sidelines, Hawks management, mesmerized by Hubie Brown's success in Memphis, wanted to import Del Harris, 65, another accredited, ahem, mature teacher. Because the team was in the process of being sold, AOL's braintrust refused to make a significant financial commitment, thus promoted assistant Terry Stotts on the cheap. Less than 11/2 seasons later, Atlanta's new owners are leaning heavily toward engaging Harris or a close facsimile - Nuggets assistant John MacLeod. ------------------------------------------------------------ The Amico Report (5-14-04). http://www.insidehoops.com/amico-051404.shtml LOTS OF RANDOM STUFF: I am honestly looking forward to following the Atlanta Hawks this off-season. I know, I need help. But the Hawks are undergoing a lot of changes, and I think observing their moves will be intriguing. Namely, who will they hire as coach? Who will they draft? Will they keep Bob Sura, Stephen Jackson, Joel Przybilla, Chris Crawford, Jason Terry, and everyone else who overachieved for them in the season’s final two months? Or will they trade the entire roster in an attempt to create enough cap space to sign free-agent-to-be Kobe Bryant? ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (5-14-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8276.shtml Atlanta Hawks: It seems the Atlanta Hawks are beginning to narrow their coaching selection and may end up choosing between Del Harris and John MacLeod, two men in their 60's who can teach the young roster the Hawks are likely to employ some old-school fundamentals.

Hawks News (5-13-04) Hawks ask to interview Sonics' Casey (5-13-04). http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/basketball/173135_sonx13.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks talk to Sonics' Casey about coaching vacancy (5-13-04). http://www.accessnorthga.com/news/hall/new...ry.asp?ID=81394 ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks may talk to Casey (5-13-04). http://www.ajc.com/thursday/content/epaper...59415f00f1.html ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (5-13-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8263.shtml Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks continue their neverending quest of talking with other assistants in their search for a new head coach. A day after looking to talk to Denver assistant John MacLeod, the Hawks have targeted Seattle associate head coach Dwane Casey. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports tomorrow's possibilities include Detroit assistant head coach Mike Woodson and Indiana associate head coach Mike Brown. Is this the right way to find a coach? Or is it just busywork reflective of a lack of focus for the franchise?

Hawks News (5-11-04) Nuggets will allow Hawks to interview MacLeod (5-11-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/h...04/12hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Jackson still not certain of return date (5-11-04). http://www.startribune.com/stories/511/4769471.html Wittman to Hawks? Wolves assistant coach Randy Wittman has been mentioned as a candidate for head coach of the Atlanta Hawks, a team with which Wittman spent most of his nine seasons as an NBA player. Wittman said he had not been contacted by the Hawks, adding, "I'd have to listen." Kevin McHale, Wolves vice president of basketball operations, said the Hawks, looking to replace the fired Terry Stotts, had not requested permission to interview Wittman but indicated he would grant it. "Randy would do a great job," McHale said Monday. "He knows the game, and he's put in his time. He had one opportunity in Cleveland, and I think it was proven by the coaches they brought in behind him that it was not the [coaches' fault]." Wittman was coach of the Cavaliers from 1999 to 2001. He compiled a 62-102 record, though the Cavaliers were hurting for talent. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE LINKS (5-11-04). http://www.slamonline.com/links/05102004/ Keith in Atlanta writes... Del Harris is a name that the AJC's Michael Lee and Tim Tucker both mention today as a candidate to coach the Hawks. While he hasn't been out of the game as long as Hubie Brown was, he comes from that older group of coaches that have experience as head coaches. Del is 63 years old, and I remember an article by Marc Stein a couple of months ago when he stated that he had heard Atlanta was leaning towards going after a coach from the Hubie Brown age group. I still feel that Chuck Daly is a name that could pop up before long as well. Daly and Knight worked together in Memphis, so there is a connection there. My personal choice would be Mike Fratello, who I think is one of the best teachers of the game out there. He's also a coach that has changed his style to suit his team. In Atlanta, he ran an up tempo offense that could score a lot of points. In Cleveland, he didn't have the athletes, so he slowed it down and had them play very good defense. In Lionel Hollins's case, I don't think it makes sense to fire Terry Stotts and then hire someone who isn't clearly an improvement. Hollins might be a better coach in the long run, but at this time, he does not represent an improvement. He represents more questions. Jack Ramsey would be an interesting case. I imagine many would publicly laugh at the Hawks for doing that, but they laughed at Jerry West when he hired Hubie Brown. I do wonder how Ramsey would relate to the young players, as this Hawks team will be a young one for the next 2-3 years. How will Ramsey coach a guy like Dwight Howard or Josh Smith? You bring up some great points, Keith. I've talked to a few people involved with the Hawks situation, and there are a few things to note. The biggest problem with this whole thing is the new ownership group. Nine heads may be better than one, but they're also a pain to get on the same page. One reason it took so long to fire Stotts was because the majority of the owners couldn't be convinced it was worth it long-term to eat his $1 million salary and move on. Once that finally got handled, they've now got to agree on a coach. I like Fratello for the Hawks, too. From what I hear, he's tight with two members of the ownership group, but they're in the minority. The other guys are indeed interested in Lt. Frank Drebin (Del Harris), but that seems incredibly short-sighted to me. Same with Dr. Jack and Chuck Daly. The Hawks need to hire someone younger with more local appeal, which Fratello has (plus he looks like he's about 12 years old, so there's your youth). Maybe Mike Vick is available? ------------------------------------------------------------ MacLeod wants to be in charge again (5-11-04). http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1413,36~90~2140018,00.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Philips Arena operating without fire safety permits (5-11-04). http://www.accessnorthga.com/news/ap_newfu...ry.asp?ID=37717 ------------------------------------------------------------ Remote chance of viewing NBA playoffs (5-11-04). http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=...id=161561&rfi=6 Now, it seems every cable channel outside of A&E and Bravo carries NBA playoff games. It requires great channel surfing skills to watch NBA playoff games. The NBA is spreading itself too thin, but advertising dollars are all that matter. Maybe this is just the beginning. In the future, we may very well see certain teams appearing on certain cable channels. Cartoon Network figures to get the dibs on Atlanta Hawks games. After all, the Hawks are so bad, it's funny. You could hear the laughter echoing throughout the Phillips Arena in Atlanta during any Hawks' game. The reason you could hear it is because there's usually only about 200 fans in the arena for a game. ------------------------------------------------------------ THE DAILY (5-11-04). http://www.hoopsworld.com/article_8242.shtml ATLANTA HAWKS: The argument against Atlanta stealing Del Harris away from Dallas to be the next Hawks head coach is that he's not a big-name draw. No one doubts that he's experienced -- the man has overseen both more wins and more losses than all but about a dozen others. But the Hawks need a big-name. There are few names bigger in all of sports than Kobe Bryant. Harris has the distinction of not only having coached Kobe in Los Angeles, but also Kobe's father in Houston back in 1982-83. Could Harris help draw this offseason's most coveted free agent? ------------------------------------------------------------ New CEO shooting for Hawks' rebound (5-10-04). http://atlanta.bizjournals.com/atlanta/sto.../10/story2.html

Hawks News (5-10-04) Knight promises due diligence in search; Wittman on list? (5-10-04). http://www.ajc.com/sports/content/sports/h...04/11hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ U.S. Olympic team to be no one's dream (5-10-04). http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sp...0405100151may10,1,2887084.column?coll=cs-sports-print Firing line: With Tim Floyd and Terry Stotts ousted last week, Charlotte's Bernie Bickerstaff now has the sixth-longest tenure of Eastern Conference coaches. And the Bobcats haven't played a game yet. Candidates are lining up in Atlanta (Del Harris, Randy Wittman and Scott) Scott, though, is said to be waiting for the Lakers' exit. If Phil Jackson leaves, as expected, Scott is the favorite to replace him with the backing of Bryant. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hill patiently waits for another shot as boss (4-10-04). http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/bask...ak10051004may10,1,6130654.story?coll=orl-sports-headlines When fledgling assistant Lawrence Frank became head coach of the New Jersey Nets early this season, one of the first people he hired was Brian Hill, for whom Frank had been an assistant with the Vancouver Grizzlies. They proceeded to win their first 13 games together, giving Frank a wonderful start to a budding career. Frank leaned on Hill's wealth of experience. While Frank never had been a head coach before, Hill already had been through both the highs (Orlando Magic) and lows (Vancouver) the NBA could offer. It's one reason why the Nets may lose Hill when their playoff season comes to a close. Hill is part of the merry-go-round that is NBA coaching. And he is expected to change horses again. Both the New Orleans Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks will be giving him strong consideration as a head coach in the coming days. Although his stint with Grizzlies was short and woeful (31-123 in a little more than two seasons), his run as the head coach of the Magic is what many people still remember, which is why he remains an attractive candidate. He has been where everyone wants to go. With 23-year-old Penny Hardaway and 22-year-old Shaquille O'Neal -- both still young and foolish -- Hill coached the Magic all the way to the 1995 NBA Finals. The Hawks make sense for Hill because they will completely rebuild this summer. And he knows what that's all about. They are expected to be a major player in the free-agent market with $20 million under the salary cap. They also will have a very high first-round draft pick. Hill started his NBA coaching career in Atlanta as an assistant under Mike Fratello in 1986.

Hawks News (5-9-04) LAKE SHOW NOT OVER YET (5-9-04). http://www.nypost.com/sports/23814.htm T'wolves assistant Randy Wittman, a former Hawks player and Cavaliers head coach, is the leading candidate to replace Terry Stotts in Atlanta, say sources. ------------------------------------------------------------ Mavs' Harris mum on rumors about Hawks' job (5-9-04). http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dw....1a6e0025e.html ------------------------------------------------------------ Hawks competing with New Orleans, Toronto in coach search (5-9-04). http://www.ajc.com/hawks/content/sports/ha...04/10hawks.html ------------------------------------------------------------ BROWN HOT AT THORN (5-9-04). http://nypost.com/sports/nets/23787.htm Hall-of-Fame coach Larry Brown fired back at Nets president Rod Thorn yesterday, calling him a "hothead" and accusing him of phoning Hawks GM Billy Knight to complain about Atlanta trading Rasheed Wallace to the Pistons. Brown was steaming that Thorn questioned his career loyalty in response to the Pistons coach questioning the Nets for firing Byron Scott. Brown revealed Thorn was mad at the Hawks for making the three-team deal at the trade deadline in which Atlanta only got back expiring contracts. "When that guy can complain that we got Rasheed Wallace and yell at Billy Knight, he has no business doing that," Brown said. "He's trying to get Rasheed Wallace, too, and he's going to call Billy Knight and question his integrity and what he did and how smart he was. He should mind his own business and worry about his team."