Joe Johnson, Josh Childress, Josh Smith, & Al Horford Can’t Compensate For Atlanta Hawks Poor Ownership

CNNSI writer Jack McCallum argues that the Atlanta Hawks could challenge for a playoff spot next season:

But I’m going to take a deep breath and go with the Atlanta Hawks, winners of 30 games last year.

I know, I know. There’s no deader venue than Philips Arena. There’s still an ownership squabble. And the Hawks haven’t so much as smelled the postseason since ’99. But I see a Joe Johnson ready to be recognized as an elite player. I see several young players — Josh Childress, Zaza Pachulia, Shelden Williams, Marvin Williams — ready for improvement. I see two rookies, Al Horford and Acie Law, ready to help.

I see lines of people at Philips and "Let’s Go Hawks" banners all over the Peach City.

No, I don’t really see that. But I do see a team that can challenge for the playoffs in the East.

My Quick Take: I agree with McCallum. Atlanta has the talent to build on last year’s thirty win season and challenge for the Eastern Conference’s final playoff spot.

But taking a deep breath won’t be enough. McCallum might have to search for four leaf clovers or just resort to prayer. And some Atlanta residents would argue that the Hawks’ ownership group is beyond God’s help.

I’m not taking a swipe at McCallum. He’s one of the best NBA reporters. His book, Seven Seconds Or Less, is a brilliant read. But the Hawks are dysfunctional.

Their fractured ownership group is probably still sniping at each other about whether to sign Joe Johnson-and that was year’s ago. Hopefully, they’ve noticed Johnson’s fine play. This summer, they blocked a trade for Amare Stoudemire and tried to convince GM Billy Knight into drafting Yi for his overseas marketing potential.

Poor ownership can ruin a team. Before breaking through two seasons ago, the Clippers were ruined by Donald Sterling’s influence. Of course, there’s James Dolan’s reign in New York.

Right now, the Hawks are solid at every position except point guard. And McCallum is right, rookie Acie Law will provide a boost. But if Atlanta makes the playoffs, it will not be because of ownership.

How will the Hawks do this season? Get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts.