In Flames

Atlanta's playoff run ends in flames with a 93-73 home loss to Chicago. The Bulls took an early and commanding lead and the Hawks never made any adjustments to get back in the game. As weird as this sound, I knew the game was over when Jeff Teague left with a right wrist injury because he (and Josh Smith) was the only player attacking the basket, distributing the ball, and trying to play defense during the series. I knew that when Jamaal Crawford came into the game, he was a liability in the Chicago series because he couldn't run with Derrick Rose. In addition, he ruined the flow of the offense because he relies on isolation plays and if his jump shot isn't falling, he lacks the explosiveness to get to the basket.

The Birds' future is uncertain as we move into the offseason. It's hard to say, but the team's core group - Joe Johnson, Josh Smith, Marvin Williams, and Al Horford - and they're supporting cast are not good enough to take us to the next level. Do we stay the course or do we try to trade one or two of our "superstars" for new talent?

The team needs fresh blood. Most people say trade Josh Smith, but I say keep him. At least he makes an impact on big games - good or bad. I'd like to see Joe Johnson traded, but his new contract is so ridiculous that I doubt any other team will take him. Marvin "Duck" Williams must go. He was a waste of a #2 pick. Al Horford is an all-star, but he completely disappeared in the playoffs. He's a restricted free agent, so I'd entertain offers, especially if a team is willing to trade a similar talent and a high draft choice. Jamaal Crawford is a free agent and wants too much money, so I'd let him go. Jeff Teague played great against Chicago, so I'd try to work him into the rotation with Kirk Hinrich, who plays good defense.