Stan Bowman on Dale Tallon, Florida's new GM

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Hawks general manager Stan Bowman spoke with the media in the Hawks lockerroom Monday afternoon about Dale Tallon’s hiring in Florida:

On how much credit Tallon deserves for re-building the Hawks:

“He was a big part of it, no doubt about it. We struggled for awhile and we got it turned around finally. I think it’s good for him to be doing something again. I know he’s excited about the chance there in Florida.”

On what he learned from Tallon:

“You guys know Dale. He’s a great guy to be around. He’s a real people person. You can learn a lot from that and relationships. And also he’s got a great background in scouting. I think he’s done a great job in that area in particular. He really has a good eye for talent. Working with him for all those years, it was good for me to get that side of the business. I had some of the other skills that I helped him with and he certainly helped me in a lot of areas.”

On whether there is a blueprint he’s taking with him to Florida?

“We’ve been preaching for a long time that it does take time to do it the right way. Looking at our team here, we’ve tried to focus on building from within, and I think most teams would like to do that. But it’s not easy to do. You have to have the right mixture of people in place and you have to have patience with your fan base, because it does take time to do it. I think we did it the right way. We’re happy to be where we’re at right now.”

On whether he talked to him:

“I talked to him today. We had a good chat. I wished him well. I’m sure we’ll see a lot of each other.”

On whether he felt Tallon wanted to get back to the day-to-day, running-the-show stuff:

“I think so. He probably enjoyed some time to wind down a bit. But once he did, I think he’s probably excited to get back at it.”

On Tallon’s involvement after Tallon’s role changed from GM to senior advisor:

“He’s been a good behind-the-scenes guy for me to talk to about a number of things. He’s just been a fan for a number of years. That’s something he’ll always be. I think it’s great for him. I’m excited for him.”

On whether it’s fair to view Tallon as the architect of the Hawks:

“I think we all said a long time ago that Dale has been a part of what’s gone on here. There are a lot of things you have to do to reach the level we’re at. Dale was certainly a big contributor and wish him the best. He’s a great guy. He’s great person.”