Lon Kruger was convinced he could win in the NBA with a smile and an easy manner, and get the best out of his players with a positive attitude.

He was wrong.

As a result, the head coach who guaranteed the Hawks would make the playoffs this season won't be around to see it if they do. The Hawks, who haven't made the postseason since 1999, fired Kruger Thursday. The team also dismissed assistant coach Gar Heard.

Terry Stotts, who joined Kruger's coaching staff this season, takes over for the rest of the season.