Tuesday, July 13th, 2010...11:05 am
Buford and Popovich could solve the economy if so inclined
Next summer, when the league is in the midst of a lockout and we struggle to find topics to write about, there should be a wealth of information to look back on from this summer as to why the NBA is in such dire financial difficulties.
Cap space may have been in abundance, but common sense has been a rare commodity among general managers. David Kahn appears poised to add another point guard. The Knicks are open to the possibility of another run with Isiah Thomas.
But rather than dedicate what could be an endless number of words towards questioning offseason moves, here is a list of a few big men and how their salaries stack up to the reported 3 years, $11 million the Spurs signed Splitter for. (source for salaries: Yahoo Sports):
Channing Frye 5 years, $30 million
Drew Gooden 5 years, $32 million
Brendan Haywood 6 years, $55 million
Amir Johnson 5 years, $32 million
David Lee 6 years, $80 million
Darko Milicic 4 years, $20 million
Jermaine O’Neal 2 years, $12 million
Johan Petro 3 years, $10 million
Nikola Pekovic 3 years, $13 million
Tyrus Thomas 5 years, $50 million
Hakim Warrick 4 years, $18 million
The San Antonio Spurs just signed the best big man in Europe for Johan freaking Petro money. For Matt Bonner money. It’s official, Popovich and Buford have that Jedi mind trick down. I’m convinced if they ran for office they would be able to solve the economy simply by convincing debt collectors to take less money.
But in defense of President Obama, he doesn’t have Tim Duncan to make it all work. And Popovich and Buford didn’t have to step in and replace Isiah Thomas in the front office.
107 Comments
July 13th, 2010 at 11:13 am
Very nicely written, and very funny!!!
July 13th, 2010 at 11:32 am
Time and time again I wonder what NBA GMs are thinking. Very few front offices do it the right way, glad to be a fan of a team that does. I have read many articles by John Hollinger and Bill Simmons, I wonder why a desperate NBA owner (see: Donald Sterling) doesn’t reach out to one of these guys with a chance to be their GM. After all, how much worse could the Clippers get?
July 13th, 2010 at 11:34 am
Well written.
All these teams making this off-season a frenzy will be pissed after the (lockout).
A player like Shane Battier will go for about 3 Million… Amar’e would go for 10-ish. I think our front office is being smart by what they are not doing… signing super inflated long term deals.
We will be much better off in the future becuase of this.
July 13th, 2010 at 11:35 am
David Kahn will prevent any team from ever hiring a media member to run their team again. There goes my dream. KAAAAAHN!
July 13th, 2010 at 11:36 am
Splitter = best deal of the summer
That Amir Johnson deal just kills me….how about a foul rate of 6.3 per 36 min….and that’s the lowest since he started getting regular minutes…..and he’s going into his 6th season….
July 13th, 2010 at 11:44 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Andrew A. McNeill. Andrew A. McNeill said: Buford and Popovich could solve the economy if so inclined http://dlvr.it/2bRjR [...]
July 13th, 2010 at 11:52 am
I’m hoping this is a sign to come for resigning Jefferson. Say 3 yr, 18 mil?
July 13th, 2010 at 11:58 am
Great short term deal, but apples and oranges.
Splitter wasn’t a true free agent. The Spurs had to compete with Real Madrid, but not the Nets.
Also, I have a sense that Splitter traded dollars for the three year deal and a quicker real free agency.
Win-win? I think so.
July 13th, 2010 at 12:04 pm
@Tyler
I think you’re right on both counts. I think Amir Johnson and Ian Mahinmi are very similar players, except one has gotten playing time and the other hasn’t. The drastic difference in their contracts baffles me.
July 13th, 2010 at 12:04 pm
The Spurs FO has again demonstrated that it is still the best in the league. Just a month ago, most thought that if Splitter was actually going to play for the Spurs, he would at least take the entire MLE. Just a month later, we signed him and still have $2.4 mil of the MLE left. Rumors have us going hard after Raja Bell. It is believed he will either choose us or the Lakers. I think we have a good chance of getting him since the Lakers can only offer him $1.8mil.
Two years ago the Spurs selected little known George Hill who is turning into a very capable combo guard. Last year, we picked up Dejuan Blair who could easily average 10-8 for us in his second season. This summer we sign our 2007 draft pick (who fell farther in the first round than many would have expected in 2007) that has been named All-Euro league for the past 3 years. On top of this, Splitter was signed in one of the most frenzied free agent markets in recent history at a bargain basement price. If Anderson pans out as well as Hill and Blair, we will have a nice young core.
With the LLE still available and almost $2.4 mil left in the MLE, I think we have a chance to sign at least one more decent, veteran player. If we resign RJ for around $5-6mil/year then our offseason coup will be complete.
July 13th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
Tim Duncan for Secretary of Defense
July 13th, 2010 at 12:10 pm
@NL
I don’t think we can do that, he’s not a natural born citizen. Virgin Islands Ambassador to the US? Is that possible? Does that position even exist?
July 13th, 2010 at 12:13 pm
@DromJohn,
I think it was a win win situation. In three years, Splitter won’t be a real FA, he will be a Restricted FA. Also, Spurs will have Manu and TD off the books by that time, so the front office might decide to make Tiago and TP the new franchise guys, or maybe Tiago and George Hill and give them both pseudo max deals.
Being a draft-and-stash player is a tricky situation for both the player and the franchise. The player, on one hand is a “prisoner” of the franchise that drafted him, since draft rights do not expire. On the other hand, teams usually try to cash in their picks.
I remember the Scola situation was somehow similar, he had decided that he wanted to come to the NBA, but since Spurs were unwilling to pay what he considered a reasonable price for him, he engaged the franchise frontally, even his agent was on the record saying that “in the land of the free, Scola was a prisoner of the Spurs”.
I believe Tiago’s agent and the FO pulled a great deal, it allows the Spurs to have flexibility in the short term to sign a back up wing (Raja Bell, anybody?) and give Tiago the chance to prove himself in the big leagues and engage Unrestricted Free Agency in his prime (I think he might be able to pull a 5 year, 60 million contract as a UFA)
July 13th, 2010 at 12:29 pm
Don’t mean to burst expectations, but George Hill and max contract never belong in the same sentence unless it’s something along the lines of “Chris Paul signs a max contract, joins George Hill in the Spurs backcourt”.
He’s good, but not THAT good.
July 13th, 2010 at 12:32 pm
@Andrew
http://bit.ly/8CwD0T
“All persons born in the U.S. Virgin Islands on or after February 25, 1927, are native-born citizens of the United States.”
July 13th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
@Johnny
I stand corrected. Excellent research. Secretary of Defense it is.
July 13th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
While I love this signing, does anyone think that Bell will really sign with the Spurs. I mean, it is hard to compete against a personal invitation to join the Lakers (whom are considered the best to win the West) from Kobe Bryant (i.e. Artest). What other options other than Bell are there out there?
July 13th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
We must all remember that the Spurs are first and foremost a business. With all the trouble teams are having financially lately, you know the FO is looking at every situation from a basketball AND financial perspective.
There are no bad contracts anywhere on this roster. Even if you are concerned that Manu’s extension may have been a little steep for such a fragile player, also take into account how much income Manu generates from the populace south of the border.
I think the FO needs to be commended for their fiscal responsibility all while producing a product on the court that competes day in and day out.
On a different note, if I were Raja Bell, I’d much rather sign for less money with the defending champs, who are also favorites to win again this year. No point in catching elbows with my face for 7 games if I can join the elbow thrower. I don’t think he’s going to seriously consider anyone else unless he gets $4 mil a year somewhere.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
@Jesse,
You are right, maybe Max Contract was overblown. Maybe an above-the-MLE a-la Manu contract could be what GH is worth a couple years down the road. It also depends on what is the outcome of TP’s Free Agency next year (assuming it happens)…
Maybe a Rajon Rondo type of contract would be in line for GH assuming he develops into that kind of player.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:05 pm
[...] hips which is weird. 6th: NBA Offseason. Chris Bosh(notes) is the smiliest Miami Heater of all!7th: 48 Minutes of Hell. R.C. Buford is so good at money he should do everyone’s taxes. 8th: Sactown Royalty. Yeah, [...]
July 13th, 2010 at 1:09 pm
@Jesse,
Hah, excellent.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:29 pm
A joke on the NBA recently:
All teams in the NBA, with the exception of the Lakers and the Heat, have filed to have their name changed to the Washington Generals.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:30 pm
@ThatBigGuy
It is precisely because we run our organization like we do that we have the flexability to go out and take risks like the RJ trade. Even though it didn’t work out, the move was all upside (“hey a 20 pt scorer!!”) and no downside (“if it doesn’t work out, we’re only on the hook for 2 years at most.”).
To the average basketball fan, this goes unoticed(but of course not Spurs’ fans, who are infinitely more knowledgable….agreed?). And because we manage our finances conservatively (is there really any other way to manage your finances?), we will be in a position of strength a few years from now when teams are trying to rid their books of the bloated deals they signed this summer. This will allow us to scoop up some great assets at a bargain. Basically, the business side of the Spurs has afforded the basketball side the opportunity to thrive.
It’s no coincidence that we’ve been atop the NBA for over the past decade. Our success as a small market team is unparalleled in any major sport really.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Is anyone else worried about the Mavs acquiring Chandler? He was pretty good at defending Duncan 1v1 back in 08…
July 13th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
M. James
July 13th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
“While I love this signing, does anyone think that Bell will really sign with the Spurs. I mean, it is hard to compete against a personal invitation to join the Lakers (whom are considered the best to win the West) from Kobe Bryant (i.e. Artest).”
I think we have a decent chance, and really, at this point, Bell’s probably the best fit. We need a savvy veteran wing that plays tough-nosed “D”, AND can hit the three. Bell is 5th active ALL-TIME in career 3-point shooting %.
Also, I don’t think Bell is the “classic” front-runner. I think he could very possibly prefer to be a key piece that could put the Spurs over the top, than jump on the favorites bandwagon. Also, I’m sure he could use the extra million dollars. And as things stand now, if things go perfectly for us this year, signing a guy like Bell could give us a “reasonable chance” against the Lakers.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
Re: Raja Bell - Don’t underestimate the Virgin Islands connection. I believe he and Timmeh hail from the same set of US territory islands near Florida. As I recall, there was discussion about them playing together for the VI FIBA team a few years ago, but Tim had already played for the US team once (when VI did not field a team) and was thus ineligible for FIBA play with another squad.
July 13th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
@Jordan
I’m pretty fuckin’ tired of seeing that the Mavs and Cuban are involved in almost every player available. I’m tired of their relentless meddling!
I stand by it; we need ONE more solid defensive big with the rest of the MLE, and we need to re-sign RJ with an additional SF like Brewer, Butler or Barnes with the LLE.
Now Dallas is trying to get Harrington too…. the nerve.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
This is a great story… but we re-signed matt bonner!
i was so happy that he would be coming off our books and then we re-signed him.. how embarrassing
July 13th, 2010 at 2:06 pm
@Jordan
Chandler hasn’t been near the player that he was against the Spurs in the 2008 playoffs since. He’s had several injuries and lost a step or three. That move doesn’t scare me at all.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Donnie Nelson (Mavs GM) was on the ESPN affiliate here in Dallas earlier today and said they’re certain Chandler is “fit as a horse.” Whatever that means.
Just thought I’d share some details from behind enemy lines.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
@ Jordan
With respect to the Mavs signing Chandler, I’m not too worried. Damp was probably just as effective at defending Timmy, so I’d say it is a lateral step, at least on the court. I think the trade was mostly financial. Sure Chandler has more years left on his contract, but getting rid of Matt Carroll’s contract was the real reason the trade was made, I presume.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:13 pm
@ ThatBigGuy - Yes. I think the primary goal was to set up expirings totalling nearly 30million. I think Cuban wants a run at ‘Melo.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Added to this article should be the fact that probably the best or one of the best gms in the NBA, Sam Presti, came from the Spurs organization as well
July 13th, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Jacob
July 13th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
“I stand by it; we need ONE more solid defensive big with the rest of the MLE, and we need to re-sign RJ with an additional SF like Brewer, Butler or Barnes with the LLE.”
Actually, I would sign Bell with the rest of the MLE, and either Amundson, J. Anthony, Jeffries, (bigs), Brewer, Barnes, or Butler (SF) with the LLE.
July 13th, 2010 at 2:32 pm
well written! this is what hooks people to 48minofhell, and with the 3yr deal i see a timetable set for duncans departure hopefully splitter will improve w/ a good 2 seasons can he spell timmy D ? i think so! i also think whatever the Parker outcome we will be in good poition to compete for rings.
July 13th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
Maybe Buford and Pop know that the dollar is going into severe red-line territory. The debt our country is carrying is toxic. It is feasible that there will come a day when the NBA won’t have enough money to pay these overgrown children to simply put a ball through a hoop…..hence the lockout.
July 13th, 2010 at 3:11 pm
A quick aside:
I don’t believe you need to be a natural born citizen to be Secretary of Defense. That eligibility requirement only applies for President and Vice President.
Go Spurs!
July 13th, 2010 at 5:00 pm
Chandlers about as fit as a horse with Turf Toe can be apparently.
Kahn is just killing it in Minnesota.
Sessions/Ridnour/Flyn are on the roster right now with Rubio stuck in Barca wondering what cat he kicked off the Sagrada Familia to deserve this clownshoes GM drafting him.
Couple this with giving Darko that contract, getting rid of a productive Al Jefferson who wasn’t exactly overpaid…he was on $13 million this year not 20 million. Thats at 25 and capable of 20 and 10 day in day out. He gave em 17 and 9 last year coming off a full reconstruction.
Kevin Love is a great prospect but turning Al Jefferson in for a couple of protected first rounders is bat**** insane.
July 13th, 2010 at 5:53 pm
Bushka,
Ha, i can’t believe they signed Ridnour. I love it.
I agree with the idea of trading Jefferson. However, I’m pretty sure they could have got something better back. I guess they wanted to add to their terrible center collection. They’ve got a nice one.
July 13th, 2010 at 6:41 pm
Pop also let Raja work out at Spurs camp in 2003(?) and kept Captain Jack instead. The Spurs wanted to keep Bell but they helped Raja get signed by Larry Brown by putting together a video of Raja’s work which they sent to Brown. That was before the Spurs-Suns contretemps, however.
July 13th, 2010 at 7:30 pm
A fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.
July 13th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
thats great - I really like the article - thanks for the good words and of course i agree about the teams ‘common sense’. If you have class you don’t need to flash money. It’s great when your team is not only an actual ‘team’ and has a passion for their craft, but they also have class.
If i had a FF button i would zoom to day 1 of the NBA (i would slow down for COWBOY sundays though).
nice work and GO SPURS!!!
July 13th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
What is the Spurs salary cap situation after signing Splitter and re-signing Bonner? Can they still realistically be players in free agency?
July 13th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
este
July 13th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
“What is the Spurs salary cap situation after signing Splitter and re-signing Bonner? Can they still realistically be players in free agency?”
As of now, the Spurs still have approximately $2.4mil left of their Mid Level Exception and the entire Low Level Exception (approximately $2mil). It is expected that the Spurs will sign Richard Jefferson sometime this week for far less than the $15mil he was supposed to receive had he not opted out. I have heard rumor and speculation that the contract will be around $6mil/year (I can’t swear this is true so don’t quote me on this). If this is the case, the Spurs will save themselves a ton of money this offseason and have a more competitive team this next year.
Rumor also has it that the Spurs are chasing Raja Bell with the remainder of the MLE. Bell would be a HUGE help not only behind the 3pt line, but on our perimeter defense. His signing would literally kill two birds with one stone. We are also rumored to be looking at James Jones, who could play meaningful minutes behind RJ and can hit the deep ball at a decent clip. If we could sign Bell for the remainder of the MLE and get Jones for the LLE, our summer would be complete. As it stands, I like what we have done so far, but I think we still have two or three more moves left this summer starting with resigning RJ for a low price.
July 13th, 2010 at 10:37 pm
Hobson13
July 13th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
“We are also rumored to be looking at James Jones…”
Hobson, Barnes appears to be more expendable in Orlando, with the recent signing of Q. Richardson, especially if they match the Bulls offer on Redick. If you had a choice between Jones & Barnes, which would you choose?
July 13th, 2010 at 11:07 pm
Pop, I am CRYING OUT LOUD FOR RAJA BELL, at this point, Bell’s probably the best fit. We need a wing player that plays tough-nosed “D”, AND can hit the three. Bell is 5th active ALL-TIME in career 3-point shooting %. Signing a guy like Bell could give us a “reasonable chance” against the Lakers.
Kobe is a good Anaylzer, trying to take those D who were giving him trouble to Join his team like Artest and now Raja. Spurs and Timmy DO NOT let Raja slip away, Do not allow this to happen - We have to put in mind that Laker are the team to Beat in the West.
Please Pop and Timmy, our mission is almost completed once we signed Raja Bell we are HOT and are done and ready to Go.
July 13th, 2010 at 11:56 pm
fatsocalifornia
July 13th, 2010 at 11:07 pm
You used the text in quotes below in your post despite the fact that I originated this exact text from my post earlier on this thread. In the future, please do not use someone else’s text as your own. If you want to use it, put it in quotes and make the proper attribution. Thanks.
“….at this point, Bell’s probably the best fit. We need a savvy veteran wing that plays tough-nosed “D”, AND can hit the three. Bell is 5th active ALL-TIME in career 3-point shooting %……..
…….signing a guy like Bell could give us a “reasonable chance” against the Lakers.”
July 14th, 2010 at 12:22 am
So Raja is the saviour now…
Barring other moves he’d be playing either starting or back-up small forward. That means defending Carmelo, Durant, Lebron, among others.
Only problem is, Raja is 6.4 with shoes… he is (or was) a good defender on perimeter players, but I doubt he can effectively take on those giants.
July 14th, 2010 at 2:16 am
It’s not really about locking those guys down though is it?
I mean you just try to stop the bleeding with guys like Lebron & K.D.
July 14th, 2010 at 5:26 am
I honestly believe, with the moves that we have made, we will be in the top half of the Western Conference.
In an earlier post I wrote that I didnt think this was true, but upon further consideration, I was wrong.
Last year we gave away at least 5 games becuase we could not drain the WIDE OPEN shot. We gave away at least another 2-3 in the last few minutes due to defensive lapses that led to lay-ups. With the addition of Splitter, i doubt there will be as many uncontested layups considering this is probably the most skilled big that we have had since my man BIG DAVE. There is no way that our draftee Anderson shoots as bad as RMJ. Bringing in Raja Bell would be a fantastic upgrade over Keith Bogans, better defense and the ability to drain the open 3 ball.
You have to believe that either George Hill or DeJuan Blair will make a giant step forward this year. Considering Hill’s leap last year, I would say that his shot is a little better, but DeJuan is the one who will have made the “leap” this year. His footwork and ability to put the ball on the floor should make up for his lack of height. I am also told that he is adding a jumper to his game…
Can season start already…?
July 14th, 2010 at 5:38 am
“It’s not really about locking those guys down though is it?
I mean you just try to stop the bleeding with guys like Lebron & K.D.”
Yeah, how many times have we lot the opposing teams player have a big game and still won? You do your best to slow them down and then make sure their supporting cast doesn’t get much.
July 14th, 2010 at 6:33 am
Bowen was a great defender but keep in mind that bowen had some pretty pretty good help defense. I hope that splitter/duncan is going to help in that department. Bowen’s greatest asset was that he would use the baseline and a shot blocker to play defense. It is alot easier to be a good defender when you have two 7 footers to funnel them down to. Raja would be awesome to pick up. But if we only have timmy playing the shot blocker/interior defender, our dfense still won’t be good enough to be a contender.Tiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaago and the rest of our bigs must have a bigger presence in the lane.
July 14th, 2010 at 7:49 am
Jim Henderson
July 13th, 2010 at 10:37 pm
“If you had a choice between Jones & Barnes, which would you choose?”
Wow…that, to me, is a tough decision. Let me say that either would be a big upgrade at the backup SF role over a complete clown like Bogans. Both James and Barnes are about the same age and have similar size. Jones is a better 3pt shooter, but Barnes is probably a better defender. With that said, I would personally go with Barnes because he actually started for a very good Orlando team for much of this last year. Jones, while a very similar player, has been a backup for most of his career. There’s no doubt in my mind that Barnes could actually start in certain situations where Pop is looking for a more defensive minded 3.
While I would give Barnes the slight nod over Jones in the talent department, I think the Spurs will pick up Jones if RJ resigns. RJ averaged 31min last year meaning there is only about 17 min on the table for the backup 3. Barnes hasn’t averaged that few minutes since his 3rd year in the league. Two of Jones’ most important career averages are in minutes and 3pt shooting at 19min and 39.5% respectively.
Bottom line: I think the Spurs are looking for a good role player to back up RJ not a guy who will demand minutes. Besides, I read an article at least a year ago in which Matt Barnes stated that he wasn’t interested in SA at all (I don’t remember what article it was or I’d post it). Otherwise, I think we would have gone after him since he made only $1.6 mil last year. As I say, either guy is a massive upgrade to our SF spot and bench rotation. Remember that no one even wanted Keith Bogans last year until Pop decided he needed to be the key cog in our defense…
July 14th, 2010 at 7:59 am
@ Hobson - What kind of guy says he DOES NOT want to play for SA? That’s kinda crazed, IMO.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:12 am
SAJKinBigD
July 14th, 2010 at 7:59 am
“@ Hobson – What kind of guy says he DOES NOT want to play for SA? That’s kinda crazed, IMO.”
I don’t know. That’s just what the dude said. He acted as if he had some sort of irrational hatred of the place. Now that was at least a year ago so maybe he’s changed his mind. Barnes has been to 7 different teams in 7 years. He may welcome some stability by signing on with the Spurs for a while.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:13 am
@Francesco
You hit the nail on the head. Would I love to have Bell here? Yes of course. But keep in mind he’s listed at 6’5″ and that is generous. Until we sign RJ we have no real SF on the roster only swing wings. We have a stockpile of SG’s but no real SF’s. Of the guys you listed (Carmelo, Lebron Durant) they are all 6’8″ or above and 225, 250 and 230 respectively. The other thing about Bell is he has to want to sign here. There have been zero indications that he wants to play in San Antonio. He’s mentioned Dallas, Orlando and Miami as being his top three, nowhere has he mentioned he wants to pay in SA. With Miami’s financial situation, they’re out of the top 3. Now you have the 24 rapist trying to coax him into Fakerland.
@Hobson/JHenderson
I think Jones is the target here. Barnes D is what he’s known for but he’s also known for complaining in the locker room. Doesn’t sound like a Spurs guy. Don’t know Jones that well from the media and that’s probably a good thing. His 3 point shooting is the key. What’s I’ve read is that they would be looking to use the remaining MLE on Jones and that means that Bell must be willing to choose SA for the LLE.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:25 am
I’ve read in several sources that Jones is a great locker room presence, kind of typifies the Spurs chemistry / character type. I think his defense is good but not excellent, and with his good 3 point shot he is more than servicable for a backup SF role.
When do we re-sign RJ? Once he is locked in, I think they make their move, if any.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:29 am
@Hobson: Fair ’nuff. Maybe it’s some imagined slight a la Shaq’s BS story about David Robinson stiffing him for an autograph (which I have a hard time imagining still to this day - I have seen DR out and about a hundred times and he always signed gobs and gobs of autographs).
I think I’d be happy with the FO adding Jones to this team.
Also, it’s pretty funny how angst-y the Mavs fans are here in Dallas about losing Al Jefferson to Utah and getting Chandler instead. Makes me laugh.
July 14th, 2010 at 9:45 am
Master Yoda would be proud.
July 14th, 2010 at 10:00 am
@ Dr. Who
you hit the nail on the head back to you about Barnes: too much twittering and always complaining… plus, while taller than Raja he’s another short small forward, so I don’t care how good he is on D, the premier 3s in the league will not even take notice.
Of course nobody can stop those guys, but (ideally) you would like to make them think and, in a playoff series, maybe take a game to adjust to the defender.
RJ was brough in to defend the best opposing swing player (Pop’s words), and if we get him back I’m sure you’ll see his effort and success on D much improved this year.
We don’t need offense from the 3 spot, with Parker+Hill+Manu+Duncan we have enough offense.
What we need, somehow by someone, is 3 point shooting. Last playoff proved it. Why do you think Miami and Chicago hurried up to snatch the league’s best snipers?
It doesn’t matter how well a team plays, in today’s NBA you need to have someone who can consistently knock down from long range.
James Jones would be welcome.
July 14th, 2010 at 10:02 am
SAJKinBigD,
“What kind of guy says he DOES NOT want to play for SA? That’s kinda crazed, IMO.”
I mean, think about it, some of these guys like Barnes and Raja Bell have been getting their asses handed to them by the Spurs for years and years. You never really wan to join the team that consistenly beats you. But hey you know as they say, “if you can’t beat em, join em.”
July 14th, 2010 at 10:04 am
@fatsocalifornia: “Signing a guy like Bell could give us a “reasonable chance” against the Lakers.”
Even if Bell can guard Kobe as well as he used to, does that really help us? It’s not like Hill or even Manu can keep Artest away from the rim. So you’re looking at a Parker/Bell/Jefferson/Duncan/Splitter lineup?
July 14th, 2010 at 10:28 am
Of course most people don’t want to play for the Spurs! Are you people blind?
No nightlife, no party oriented teammates, lower than average salaries, a coach who calls his players “dogs”…
Come on, it takes a certain kind of PERSON to want to play for San Antonio.
July 14th, 2010 at 10:59 am
@Francesco
That’s exactly right, and that is why they made their moves last year instead trying to lure free agents this year. Because they knew they couldn’t attract the bigger name players.
If you look at what kinds of free agents the Spurs have been able to attract, this is obvious. It’s either guys that are out to prove something or vets on the way to retirement.
July 14th, 2010 at 11:13 am
But…but…but…
Naw, I understand. But… LOOK AT THE RINGS! AND THE BANNERS, PEOPLE! This is an organization that KNOWS and UNDERSTANDS how to win!
I’d bet monies (when will you have the monies? will you have the monies soon?) that Bell signs with the Silver and Black. He’s a pretty down-to-earth dude, from the interviews I’ve heard of him, and since Miami’s priced themselves out, and Orlando doesn’t seem to be very interested and the Mavs are…the Mavs… I’m betting he goes to the Riverwalk.
July 14th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
Dr. Who
July 14th, 2010 at 8:13 am
“I think Jones is the target here. Barnes D is what he’s known for but he’s also known for complaining in the locker room.”
I agree. I maintain that Barnes is the better all-around player, but he never has struck me as a very good locker room presence. I’m sure Barnes wants to play serious minutes and that won’t happen with however plays behind RJ. Besides, Ryan Russillo reported today that Barnes turned down an offer for $4mil/year. There’s no way we can afford him at even that level. Jones, on the other hand, can be had for cheaper.
BTW, the Spurs and Lakers appear to be Raja Bell’s top two choices according to numerous sources. I like our chances since we can offer more than the Lakers. I bet we give him a 3 year deal with the last year being only partially guaranteed.
Here’s the article on Raja.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=Auil6qtOdEizo1BZ9nV9rRy8vLYF?slug=ys-freeagentbuzz071410
July 14th, 2010 at 1:51 pm
When you factor in the fact that TX has no state income tax the Spurs deal becomes even sweeter in comparison to what the Lakers can offer Bell.
July 14th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
If I’m not mistaken, signing Raja Bell would mean we’d be bringing in 13 guys to training camp as of today. Signing him might be a signal that we don’t intend to bring RJ back. RJ could be left out in the cold.
I say save the tax money and let Bell, Anderson, Hairston, Gee, and Temple fight for the SF spot and the minutes left over from the SG spot behind Hill and Manu.
July 14th, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Francesco
July 14th, 2010 at 12:22 am
“Barring other moves he’d be playing either starting or back-up small forward.”
Afraid not. He’d be backing up RJ AND Manu, and that’s about 20 mpg., easy. Now, if you guys want to DEPEND on Anderson backing up Manu, or a late 2009-2010 addition from the D-League backing up Parker (Temple), go ahead. I’m not.
mjs2377
July 14th, 2010 at 6:33 am
“Raja would be awesome to pick up. But if we only have timmy playing the shot blocker/interior defender, our dfense still won’t be good enough to be a contender.”
I agree. That’s why I’ve been advocating for months now to add a shot-blocker for cheap and NOT re-sign Bonner. I had suggested going after J. Anthony & L. Amundson with the LLE (which I believe we still could do, but then we’d have SIX bigs - probably too many without a trade).
Hobson13
July 14th, 2010 at 7:49 am
“I would personally go with Barnes because he actually started for a very good Orlando team for much of this last year. Jones, while a very similar player, has been a backup for most of his career. There’s no doubt in my mind that Barnes could actually start in certain situations where Pop is looking for a more defensive minded 3.”
Okay, I tend to agree, because I put more value on tough “D” right now.
“While I would give Barnes the slight nod over Jones in the talent department, I think the Spurs will pick up Jones if RJ resigns. RJ averaged 31min last year meaning there is only about 17 min on the table for the backup 3. Barnes hasn’t averaged that few minutes since his 3rd year in the league. Two of Jones’ most important career averages are in minutes and 3pt shooting at 19min and 39.5% respectively.”
Fair point.
Dr. Who
July 14th, 2010 at 8:13 am
“Until we sign RJ we have no real SF on the roster only swing wings.”
The potential Bell signing is with the assumption that we are quite confident in signing a SF, whether that’s RJ (a strong possibility at this point), and/or someone else.
“What’s I’ve read is that they would be looking to use the remaining MLE on Jones and that means that Bell must be willing to choose SA for the LLE.”
I would do that the other way around. Even though 3 years older, and his lack of size, Bell is still a more valuable addition, in my view (particularly with assuming an RJ signing).
Francesco
July 14th, 2010 at 10:00 am
“What we need, somehow by someone, is 3 point shooting.”
That’s right, and Bell is the best available in this regard. 5th all-time active 3-point shooting %. We won’t need him much for defense on the other star SF’s around the league. Not if RJ signs, which is likely. RJ plays about 33 mpg. That leaves 18 mpg. for back-ups (Hairston, Bell, Manu, Anderson, etc.). And a guy like Jones will add depth if we bring him in with the LLE.
doggydogworld
July 14th, 2010 at 10:04 am
“@fatsocalifornia: “Signing a guy like Bell could give us a “reasonable chance” against the Lakers.””
Doggy, those are NOT fatsocalifornia’s words. Please see the following posts:
Jim Henderson
July 13th, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Jim Henderson
July 13th, 2010 at 11:56 pm
doggydogworld
July 14th, 2010 at 10:04 am
“Even if Bell can guard Kobe as well as he used to, does that really help us? It’s not like Hill or even Manu can keep Artest away from the rim. So you’re looking at a Parker/Bell/Jefferson/Duncan/Splitter lineup?”
You wouldn’t want Bell as a back-up to Manu? He’s FIFTH active ALL-TIME in 3-point %?! AND he’s a tough-nosed veteran defender on the wing. What is wrong with that?
Kornbread
July 14th, 2010 at 10:59 am
“If you look at what kinds of free agents the Spurs have been able to attract, this is obvious.”
It’s not just about who they can “attract”. It’s also about who they “want”. And let’s face it, the Spurs have always been more discerning about player acquisitions than the average team, and that strategy has paid off. Ultimately, it’s more about assembling a TEAM than it is about the so-called STARS. Stars are an important PART of the team, but the TEAM overall must take precedence.
Hobson13
July 14th, 2010 at 12:55 pm
“Besides, Ryan Russillo reported today that Barnes turned down an offer for $4mil/year. There’s no way we can afford him at even that level.”
Perhaps, but there’s a good chance that Barnes is over-pricing himself at this point. We’ll see.
“BTW, the Spurs and Lakers appear to be Raja Bell’s top two choices according to numerous sources.”
I still have some concerns with Chicago, Portland, & Utah.
July 14th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Tyler
July 14th, 2010 at 2:02 pm
Are you Holt’s financial advisor?
July 14th, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Francesco
July 14th, 2010 at 10:28 am
“Come on, it takes a certain kind of PERSON to want to play for San Antonio.”
Yeah, it’s called someone that’s willing to put in the work that it takes to become a champion, as a TEAM, not some prima donna that wants to be “all that” as he struts around about town.
July 14th, 2010 at 3:55 pm
By the way, Kyle Lowery of the Rockets is a nice back-up PG for the Rockets, but 24 million for 4 years? Are you kidding me?! And the Rockets felt forced to match the Cav’s offer. I don’t know what Cleveland’s thinking, offering that much for Lowery, when they don’t even have a starting center. They have SIX guards under contract already. Has the newly installed Cav’s GM, Chris Grant, taken lessons from David Kahn in the past, or what?! I’d rather try and sign Brad Miller for 12-15 million over 3 years, and have about 2-3 million left to sign another player if I was them. I don’t know why that wouldn’t be a good spot for Miller, from both the team & players’ perspective.
July 14th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
I’ve read in more than one place that bell is leaning heavily towards SA or LA. That being said, assuming we land him, could we still use the LLE on jones and get both? I would be a very happy and excited (enthusiastic not erect) Spurs fan. Our line would look pretty nice.
Parker-Hill-Temple
Manu-Raja-Anderson
Jefferson-Jones-Gee
Duncan-Blair-Bonner
Splitter-McDyess
July 14th, 2010 at 5:28 pm
Fanhouse interviewed Raja Bell earlier today, prior to his Kobe meeting for dinner tonight. It sure sounded like he has a good chance of working something out with LA! He only mentioned Miami & LA, and pretty much stated that the Heat were now out of the picture. NO other team was mentioned, although I don’t know why the interviewer didn’t specifically ask him about that. Dumb.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUMzPDCHl5E&feature=player_embedded
Jacob
July 14th, 2010 at 5:17 pm
“….assuming we land him, could we still use the LLE on jones and get both?”
Yes.
July 14th, 2010 at 5:38 pm
@Jim Henderson: “They have SIX guards under contract already.”
We have EIGHT guards under contract and you still want to add Raja Bell.
July 14th, 2010 at 5:50 pm
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5381152
Bell is going to Utah
July 14th, 2010 at 5:57 pm
According to Stein, Bell canceled the dinner with Kobe. But that YouTube reporter Jim Henderson dug up interviewed him at the restaurant “minutes before his dinner with Kobe”. Sounds like at least part of Stein’s info is wrong.
July 14th, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Yeah but the resigning of Bonner was horrible!!! I know the Spurs value character, but the guy is a one trick pony who isnt gonna get better. $32 million!! Matt Bonner must be on cloud 9 right now
July 14th, 2010 at 6:04 pm
doggydogworld
July 14th, 2010 at 5:38 pm
“We have EIGHT guards under contract and you still want to add Raja Bell.”
Cleveland’s FOUR non-starting guards, most of which have filled NBA roster spots for an entire season, have contracts totaling 12 million. Most of our FOUR non-starting guards have not filled NBA roster spots for an entire season, and have contracts totaling just 3 million dollars. So, yes, I’d love to have Raja Bell, and have Jerrells & Gee continue to work on their game in Austin.
Unfortunately, that’s not going to happen, because exactly what I was worried about just happened: Bell apparently just signed for more money to play in Utah. And, with the addition of A. Jefferson, likely puts the Jazz back into the playoff mix.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=5381152
July 14th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
mvg03
July 14th, 2010 at 6:01 pm
“$32 million!! Matt Bonner must be on cloud 9 right now.”
Where are you getting 32 million! I believe it was closer to 14 million.
July 14th, 2010 at 6:07 pm
Most reports say around 16m for Matt, but no one knows for sure.
July 14th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
Does anybody know much about Bobby Simmons, a FA small forward that played with the Nets last year? He had an off year last year, but he has had some good years. He’s 30 years old, listed at 6’7″, 210 lbs., and is ranked 10th in active career 3-point shooting %.
Best SF shooters left that we might have a chance at getting:
Jones
Simmons
Butler
Barnes (not as good of a shooter)
July 14th, 2010 at 6:24 pm
…… and Brewer, perhaps, as more of a defender, but he’s young enough where he could probably improve his shot some.
July 14th, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Hopefully we see some action soon. Jones & Brewer???
July 14th, 2010 at 7:07 pm
tony parker and malik Hairston for Chris Paul?
July 14th, 2010 at 7:21 pm
Great! It looks like we struck out on yet another free agent. There’s no way we could have matched Utah at 3 yrs $10mil. I don’t like our chances with either Barnes nor Brewer for the remainder of the MLE. If Bell can command that money, younger starters like Barnes and Brewer will want more money. I think our best bet would be to get James Jones at this point. Jones isn’t as good as any of the three I’ve mentioned so far, but he can fill in for RJ for 15-18min/game. Let’s see what happens over the next few days. It’s widely expected that RJ will sign by the end of the week. I wouldn’t be surprised if our roster is filled out by the end of the week or maybe by the middle of next.
July 14th, 2010 at 7:38 pm
What’s w/ RJ’s deal? He left one year and $15M. Surely he must have thought (been told?) that if he pushed to 3 years, he would get more absolute $ … like 3 for $25, effectively paying him MLE for years 2 and 3, which is about what he is worth.
Also, who thought RJ would be a fit? Dude dunked when he had J-Kidd dishing. But he’s borderline awful 3-baller. Doesn’t even drive that well. More of a finisher than a driver. So how was this supposed to work, w/ TP and Manu handling, and Timmeh in the post. No place for RJ but out on the wing, where he is average, at best.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:47 pm
I don’t know if anyone has posted this yet but here it is: http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/07/13/spurs-taking-look-at-james-jones/
July 14th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
I don’t know about James Jones, I think he would just be another Mason and not the good one from the first year. I would rather bring all our young guns to the roster. I think having Temple, Hairston, and Gee rather than cutting one of them would be much more benificial than bringing in another average journeyman who has seemingly underachieved almost every spot and team for which he was called upon.
July 14th, 2010 at 8:51 pm
i agree, im down for trading tp9 and hairston for paul superstar for better superstar
July 14th, 2010 at 9:07 pm
zainn
“i agree, im down for trading tp9 and hairston for paul superstar for better superstar”
Why would the Hornets want do this trade? They would trade their franchise player for Parker and an unproven Hairston. Unless Khan has taken the reigns in New Orleans I don’t think that’s going to happen.
July 14th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
I mean paul wants to be traded to a contending team, I gues we could include some fillers, but tony is about 75 percent of what paul is, and tony is somewhat of a franchise player as well. And tonys gonna leave anyways after next season…hornets are in rebuilding mode right now, and pauls upset
July 14th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
@Jim Henderson
“It’s not just about who they can “attract”. It’s also about who they “want”…Ultimately, it’s more about assembling a TEAM than it is about the so-called STARS.”
We all understand that the Spurs are building a team each off season. I was referring to free agents that they targeted and that they lost out on. Market size is a factor that works against the Spurs.
July 14th, 2010 at 11:19 pm
Is this guy (Bobby Simmons) worth considering, even for a vet minimum contract? He looks to be quite talented as a spot-up 3-point shooter. Has been plagued by injuries, but is he worth a look at the vet minimum. We still need 3-point shooting. He does look too injury-prone for my taste though. Any thoughts?
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Bobby-Simmons-4340/
\http://netsarescorching.com/2009/09/17/scouting-report-bobby-simmons/
kornbread
July 14th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
“Market size is a factor that works against the Spurs.”
Perhaps, but we’re not really sure who the Spurs have “lost out on”. There’s been some media reports suggesting that we were interested in a few players, Bell being one of them. But we lost Bell because of money, not really market size. Utah’s not a huge market. I think money has been the main issue this year that has made it difficult. Plus, not signing the big name FS’s hasn’t really hurt us in any meaningful way over the years, otherwise we wouldn’t have more titles than any other team other than the Lakers over the best 12 years. Market size may very well help attract “stars”, but that can actually backfire as well if management is taken in by the hype (they’re human too) and the “star” ends up under-performing, which does happen on occasion. It’s often better to focus on young players that aren’t yet stars, butt have some promise, and then aggressively develop them internally. Established star’s that mainly want to go to large markets are often too into marketing themselves, and getting a lot of extraneous attention, rather than zeroing in on the hard work, teamwork, and leadership on the court that is necessary to create an environment conducive to building a championship caliber team. I really don’t feel slighted by being “small market”. We succeed the old fashioned way, and I think that’s pretty cool.
July 14th, 2010 at 11:59 pm
With some decent money left, and Splitter now signed, Manu under contract, RJ being given the proper $$ “adjustment”,we WILL pick up one more piece. We need to let the FO do its thing.
We’ll be happy with their move, I’m pretty sure.
July 15th, 2010 at 1:02 am
Jim H,
Simmons should be an option, IMHO. You may remember a few years ago he had a couple of very strong years for the Clippers (when they were making the playoffs). He parlayed that into an overpriced contract and has been languishing on bad teams in the East ever since then. (If memory serves, the Bucks had to trade Yi to NJ when they acquired Jefferson, but they needed Simmons’ contract to make the $$ work. That should give you some idea of how big his contract was.)
Simmons was a classic example of someone who’s a good bench player for a good team and a starter for crap ones. He’s also a bit streaky as a shooter, in a way that’s scary for both teams, so he was well suited to the Vinnie Johnson/Eddie House kind of role as someone who could potentially give you a lift off the bench. Simmons is getting a bit old and rusty for a wing player and he was never a lock-down defender. Plus, much like Barnes, he’s probably looking for more money and minutes than the Spurs will offer. But I was also thinking that if Jones doesn’t work out, then Simmons might be a decent fit.
July 15th, 2010 at 1:40 am
Nice article, btw. I’m continually impressed by the Spurs’ front office and ownership. They don’t get everything 100% right (who does?) but they have a good sense of what works and the sensibility to stick to it. (Please forgive the Jane Austen reference in a hoops blog. But I live about 10 miles from her house, so I come by it honestly…)
Amazingly, though, I find signings like the Amir Johnson contract to be far less an indication of insanity than some recent front office moves. Just look at this sample:
New Orleans fired Jeff Bower because he wouldn’t take orders from Chris Paul.
Cleveland fired Mike Brown and Danny Ferry because they wouldn’t take orders from LeBron James. And then Dan Gilbert followed that up with a public tantrum that managed to make LeBron James’ TV show look tactful!
Larry Ellison will probably buy the Golden State Warriors for better than $400 million and yet may keep Don Nelson on because he’s still owed $6 million. If that isn’t penny wise but pound foolish, I don’t know what is. (BTW, Don Nelson is a great guy. I had a couple of friends who worked for him in Dallas and he couldn’t have been a nicer boss if he tried. But let’s face it, he has made a complete mess of the Warriors!)
Portland not only fired Kevin Pritchard(!) but publicly humiliated him and still had the gall to ask him to run their draft that evening!
Phoenix lost/drove out Steve Kerr and replaced him with (wait for it…) Lon Babby!
Better yet, New Jersey fired Kiki Vandeweghe and may have pushed Rod Thorn into early retirement, only to hire… Billy King! Hilarious!
Give me a second here while I catch my breath… [Wipes tears of laughter from eyes.]
So remember, everyone, when you feel like criticizing RC, Pop, and Peter for letting Scola get away or re-signing Matt Bonner, look at who owns or runs some of the other teams. I’ll say it again, I’m continually impressed by the Spurs’ front office and ownership.
July 15th, 2010 at 5:04 am
TP9 to NOLA for CP3 works for me. Probably need to throw in some other players to match salaries though. We still can activate Horry and include him in the trade. NOLA renounces him and saves $$$, which they want to do anyway.
July 15th, 2010 at 6:50 am
Well said, Tim! The buffoonery of this league rivals the Stooges and the Marx Brothers at times.
Also, on Donnie Nelson - he just wants to get paid and party in Maui these days. He basically handed the Mavs to Avery and checked out his last season here, then was getting paid to sit out when the Warriors picked him up and he STILL wanted Cuban (for whom I have ZERO affection) to foot his bill, even though he was gainfully employed elsewhere. Then he checked out in GS recently and is really done. He has had some great moments as a coach, and really is a lovably fun guy (a la John Daly), but he needs to call it a career.
July 15th, 2010 at 7:53 am
@ Jim Henderson
“Are you Holt’s financial advisor?”
??
Also, even though Brewer is young, he’s not going to improve his long range shot much over his career. He had an accident as a child that prevents him from extending his shooting elbow all the way. Any improvement will only be incremental….too bad really, he’s a terrific athlete and defender.
July 15th, 2010 at 10:11 am
Matt Bonner had an accident as a child it prevents him from making his three point attempts in the playoffs.
July 15th, 2010 at 10:43 am
@Jim Henderson
“Perhaps, but we’re not really sure who the Spurs have “lost out on”…”
Sure we are. Think back a few years when the team had money to spend, then think about who they ended up signing.
@Jim Henderson
“Established star’s that mainly want to go to large markets are often too into marketing themselves, and getting a lot of extraneous attention, rather than zeroing in on the hard work, teamwork, and leadership on the court that is necessary to create an environment conducive to building a championship caliber team. ”
Endorsements are part of the game, and to say that somehow these guys can’t do that and work hard to to win is really simple. Do you think they would be signed if they didn’t produce?
@Jim Henderson
“Plus, not signing the big name FS’s hasn’t really hurt us in any meaningful way over the years, otherwise we wouldn’t have more titles than any other team other than the Lakers over the best 12 years. ..
I really don’t feel slighted by being “small market”. We succeed the old fashioned way, and I think that’s pretty cool.”
Maybe not hurt, but it certainly has not helped. What if the team would have been able to sign Kidd or O’Neal in 2003?
There’s nothing wrong with a small market, but it does have its disadvantages. I think Pop is great coach. He gets his players to compete, but we have to be honest here. The secret of the Spurs success is having the good fortune to draft Robinson followed by Duncan. The team needs to milk that for all that it’s worth.
July 15th, 2010 at 12:20 pm
@Kornbread
“The secret of the Spurs success is having the good fortune to draft Robinson followed by Duncan. The team needs to milk that for all that it’s worth.”
And the Lakers and Celtics benefited from Stern AKA The Puppet Master arranging for Allen and Garnett to go to Boston the same year he arranged for Memphis to gift Gasol to LA.
July 15th, 2010 at 1:53 pm
Tim in Surrey
July 15th, 2010 at 1:02 am
Good posts, Tim.
Tyler
July 15th, 2010 at 7:53 am
“He had an accident as a child that prevents him from extending his shooting elbow all the way. Any improvement will only be incremental….too bad really, he’s a terrific athlete and defender.”
Wow! That is too bad. That will always limit his game, but he’s still a nice player if he’s in the right role. I just think we still need a shooter, and a guy that defends pretty well, to back up RJ, which I assume we’re resigning? James Jones is really the only guy I can think of, unless this Bobby Simmons guy would help?
Kornbread
July 15th, 2010 at 10:43 am
“Sure we are. Think back a few years when the team had money to spend, then think about who they ended up signing.”
Why don’t you refresh my memory.
“Endorsements are part of the game, and to say that somehow these guys can’t do that and work hard to to win is really simple. Do you think they would be signed if they didn’t produce?”
As I said, it is not entirely uncommon for talented players that are attention-grabbers to lose focus on what is most important: doing whatever it takes to win a championship. They can get caught up in their own hype and lose the mental focus & physical preparation required to win at the highest level. Some have been signed with management thinking that they would “produce”, but they ended up under-performing in the end. Also, it takes much more than a box score to become an NBA champion. The Spurs have always understood this, and as a result have consistently incorporated a philosophy & strategy in player acquisition that reflects that understanding. And it has paid off big time.
“The secret of the Spurs success is having the good fortune to draft Robinson followed by Duncan. The team needs to milk that for all that it’s worth.”
These draft picks were not just luck, and despite these stars, we would not have won our 4 titles without the critical roles played by a number of far less celebrated players.
July 16th, 2010 at 11:37 am
Shaq? What are we thinking here? I was initially waaay against it, but now I’m kind of starting to picture him in the silver and black. Gotta be cheap though…. It sure would be nice to have too many bigs for once.
July 18th, 2010 at 6:20 pm
What about the rest of the league? Isn’t that just a list of the Timberwolves Big Men!!
Spurs have the best front office & coach combo in the league. (Besides the Lakers’ General Manager Team Kuptchek and the one on the Memphis Grizzlies Payroll!!)
July 29th, 2010 at 5:48 am
[...] R.C. Buford and Gregg Popovich are still smarter than most of us [...]
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