Thursday, July 22nd, 2010...7:37 am
San Antonio Spurs sign Gary Neal
An undefeated run through the Las Vegas Summer League does not turn many heads, not when the squad in question lacks the intrigue of a first round draft pick or second year rising star.
DeJuan Blair out. James Anderson out. Malik Hairston out. Garrett Temple one game and out. Ryan Richards out of the country. Not even a Ian Mahinmi to pin some intrigue on.
That does not mean the Summer League was completely bereft of potential rotation players. Jonathan Givony of Draft Express reports that the San Antonio Spurs have signed sharpshooter Gary Neal to a three year guaranteed contract.
Neal averaged 16 points in just a shade under 26 minutes through five games. More importantly, he did so while shooting 50 percent from the field and the three-point line.
Once the fourth leading scorer in college basketball, Gary Neal saw his career at La Salle University derailed after being falsely accused of rape in a coverup scandal that attracted national attention and sent that program into disarray.
Though acquitted, Neal was cast out of La Salle. He transferred to Towson, and after going undrafted, spent the past few seasons flourishing in Europe where the guys over at Draft Express kept tabs on him:
Neal operates as Benetton’s main facilitator and is looking absolutely outstanding creating shots for himself and others on the pick and roll, being arguably the most complete offensive player in that league.While no one will confuse him with Steve Nash anytime soon, he has improved his playmaking skills substantially while keeping his turnovers to a minimum. Neal is very effective off the dribble and possesses a terrific mid-range game, needing very little space to get his shot off thanks to his quick release and excellent body control, being equally dangerous coming off screens.
Fluid and highly versatile, yet not incredibly explosive, he gets the rim nicely and finishes well around the basket, often opting to dish the ball off to an open teammate cutting to the rim or spotting up if things are looking overly congested in the painted area.
115 Comments
July 22nd, 2010 at 7:51 am
Goodness. I know he was good during the summer league, but really, I was not expecting this.
But what the hey, this is the Spurs, not the TWolves, so I trust that the FO’s doing the right thing. Losing Mason & Bogans and getting fresh and hungry blood like Neal would be definitely interesting.
Please correct me if I’m wrong, but is the lineup already complete?
PG - Parker, Hill
SG - Manu, Neal, Anderson
SF - RJ, Hairston
PF - Timmy, Blair
C - McDyess, Splitter, Bonner
Uh… That’s 12 players already. Did I miss someone? Is Gee officially a Spur or is he only in the summer squad?
July 22nd, 2010 at 7:59 am
I believe Temple and Gee have training camp contracts. Not sure of Neal’s contract, but the Spurs should also have a little exception money to throw around.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:01 am
Can we make an offer for CP3? He wants out according to espn.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:03 am
I’m sure the Spurs will inquire. As will every other team in the NBA with the exception of maybe Utah.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:15 am
We needed a shooter, and it seemed the FO was searching the free agency for a filler. I watched every summer league game and thought Neal was the best rounded player due to his lack of mistakes and good overall shooting. Gee being on the other end of the spectrum with great athleticism and decent moves, but would seem assuredly to look sloppy in the spurs system. People leaning towards James Jones etc… need look no further, this guy can shoot it from the corner or in pick and pop situations.
I hope he comes up big for the franchise and doesn’t flake on both sides of the floor like R. Mason Jr. 09-10
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:16 am
The Gary Neal signing is intriguing. The guy proved he can shoot the 3 ball, which is a Spurs weak spot.
I would’ve thought the Spurs would’ve done the same after signing Bobby Jones to a 10 day contract a yr ago, seeing that a Bruce Bowen clone was needed. But, the Spurs signed Keith Bogans instead.
Does this mean the Spurs will have more than 13 players on the roster?
Rey listed 12 w/out Temple. I get a vibe that Gee will not make the final roster after training camp.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:17 am
@Rey-those seem to be the first 12.
I also think the Spurs will pick up Gee and Temple and keep them in Austin-at least part time.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:23 am
I happen to really like the Neal signing.
On one hand, he’s much more than a D-League talent. He’s played and had success in the Euroleague - the best competition outside the NBA and much, much higher quality than the D-League. Benetton Treviso and Unicaja Malaga are two of the better club teams in Europe.
Neal can shoot the ball, which helps fill one of our biggest team needs. He can also handle the ball in a pinch if need be and he’s a decent athlete. In that respect, I think Roger Mason Jr is good comparison. And if nothing else, Neal should be better than the RMJ of last year and he’ll probably come cheaper (I haven’t seen the figures yet).
Will Neal be listed as a rookie? Yes, technically. But after playing at the Euroleague level for two years, I doubt Neal will have any problem adjusting to the NBA game. After all, he has experience against NBA-caliber athletes on Europe’s biggest basketball stage. I doubt he experiences any stage fright in San Antonio.
Does he still have to prove himself on the NBA level? Of course, but I think his results in Europe are a good indication of what we can expect, as opposed to a rookie fresh out of college just learning how to adapt his game to the bigger, more physical athletes of the NBA.
There are, however, two questions I have about Neal:
1.) Defense - can he guard opposing NBA SG’s for more than short stints? I honestly don’t think anyone but the Spurs’ scouts and FO can answer this, so I’m not going to try. But if signing him is any indication, I’d say the answer is closer to a “Yes” than a “No”. On this one, I trust that the FO has made the right decision.
2.) Off the court issues - it’s been posted here before, so I won’t get into it. But suffice it to say, his conduct in college was questionable (to put it lightly). Will that come up in SA? Again, only time will tell, but it’s reasonable to assume the FO has looked into it and given him the stamp of approval. Again, I trust the FO’s opinion, so I’ll side with them in thinking he should represent the Spurs like we’ve grown accostomed.
Lastly, and this might suprise some here, but I think Neal will be a solid contributor next season. I even think he’ll average more minutes than Anderson (roughly 15 min/game) as a backup SG and even SF depending on matchups. Again, just my opinion, but I think it says a lot about a player when the Spurs’ FO doles out a 3 year guaranteed contract to a guy just fresh off the summer league team. In the end, I think the signing of Gary Neal will go down as a shrewd move on the FO’s part.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:38 am
At this point, from what I’ve heard and read, I think the last active roster spot should come down to Hairston and Temple.
In Temple you have a young, cheap, versatile guard that can play 3 spots, although SF might not be an ideal, everyday spot. He also shoots the ball proficiently from outside, which we need and shows the willingness to defend.
Hairston is a SF, a position that lacks depth. He’s an NBA athlete and has also shown he’ll compete on defense. However, he’s still developing his long range shot. Also, if I’m not mistaken, he’s ineligible to play in the D-League.
I’ll take the easy way out and say both players stay with the Spurs (the SA team that is). Depending on the matchups, the active spot migh go back and forth from game to game. And also, TD and Manu are going to sit a number of games, which should allow both to suit up at the same time.
All in all, the depth/logjam we have between Hairston, Gee, Jerrels, and Temple is a great problem to have.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:45 am
I know Gary very well, and off court issues are of no worries. What happened at LaSalle was an unjustified accusation. He is a very intelligent, and thoughtful person. He actually just got married before the summer league started, and was out there on his honeymoon. What the Spurs are getting is a well grounded, determined man who loves to play the game.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:45 am
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Andrew A. McNeill and San Antonio Spurs, Mark Schlosser. Mark Schlosser said: Gary Neal, formerly of #Towson Basketball signs with the Spurs http://www.48minutesofhell.com/2010/07/22/san-antonio-spurs-sign-gary-neal/ [...]
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:56 am
Neal is an absolute offensive talent. A guy you can put in and expect some quick buckets from if you fall behind or get into an offensive rut. He had very quick feet and gets his shot off quickly which is great for the pick-and-roll. This signing really caught me by surprise given his off the court issues and Spurs tendency to aviod players with such issues. But, having watched all 5 summer league games, I definitely expected him to land in the NBA somewhere.
This is my final roster:
1. Parker
Hill
Neal
2. Ginobili
Anderson
Temple
3. Jefferson
Hairston
Gee
4. Blair
Bonner
Richards or Gist
5. Duncan- more center as his mobility declines
Splitter
McDyess
My condolences to Jerrels, a Baylor guy like myself, and Gist or Richards loser. Jerrels played great during summer league and I hope we can somehow keep him in the pipeline since we may lose Tony. Gist will have to return to Europe after his injury for the third year against his wishes, I am sure. Or, Richards will be sent to Europe which he clearly stated at pre-draft interview was against his wishes.
Interestingly, our ex VP Demps hired as GM in New Orleans yesterday, the same day that CP3 first voiced a desire to be traded. How did Gasol get to LA? Tony’s game predicated almost purely on speed as he’s not much of an outside shooter and only slightly better than average distributor. Just a thought to ponder.
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:00 am
Seems to me that the off-court issues from 7 years ago were the result of youth more than anything else. We all know that young college students make questionable decisions when alcohol is involved. I think the fallout from that incident taught him a lesson or two.
Time goes on and we learn, mature, and grow. I believe that he is not the same man he was then.
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:08 am
I was hoping for this. I dont knmow what percentage he shot the from three in the SL, but I know it was above 40%. Glad they signed him. Seems like a great guy to have on a team. For both infulence, and shooting. The only conscern I have about him is Defense. Can he guard the 2 guard for moer than short stints? I know somone on this already posted something like this. Assuming that they signed him though, he can’t be ay worse than Mason Jr. or Tony. On another note, I hope they sign temple, and Gee, or maybe hairston instead of Gee. He’s too predictable. Above Average athletisism, but he seemed very predictable in the SL. Thats something he needs to work on, besides his 3 point shooting.
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:10 am
@ E & b.diddy
I tend to agree. I also doubt very seriously they would sign someone they thought would possibly clash with the Spurs’ culture.
Again, the fact that we signed him right after summer league leads me to believe the FO has high expectations for him. I also have the hunch that we’ve had an eye on him for some time. In essence, we probably brought him into summer league to see how he fit with the coaching staff and players before we tied the knot. That and the fact that he played well probably sealed the deal - you don’t just sign a guy out of summer league to a 3 year guaranteed contract just because he played well in a handful of games. He’s been on the FO’s radar for quite some time I’d think.
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:20 am
a little more detailed info about gary neal…in his first year of professional basketball he played for KARSIYAKA, a turkish first division team which I am on of the million fans…let me tell you guys, he might be a undersized for his position in NBA but, he has best shooting technic ever I watch (not on TV). I spent 3 years in the states and attent all basketball games of my college (clemson) and many nba games (hawks) and I started to go basketball games when I was 6years old…so you can count on my words…he can shoot so quickly that defender even can’t get close to him to defend…his career in europe outside KARSIYAKA is also a story of success. he transferred to barcelona and then moved to Italy…he was top scorer in italian league…a very good move from spurs…we, KARSIYAKA fans, always remember him not leaving the court on his last game with us, kissing the logo of the team on his own jersey…we’ll be praying for him to be successful in NBA…
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:30 am
If I am not mistaken you can have more than 12 on your NBA roster. Believe they changed that a few years back. If so that means more than likely we will have Hairston, Gee, and Temple on the roster come October. Now of course if Gee does not play well in camp then maybe he does not make it, but I think Hairston and Temple are in for sure. So we should look like this come OCT.
PG-Parker, Hill, Temple
SG-Manu,Anderson,Neal
SF-Jokerson,Hairston,Gee,
PF-Mcdyess,Blair,Bonner
C-Duncan, Splitter
Looks like we need one more for a 15 man roster, so lets see what the front office comes up with.
PF-McDyess, Blair,Bonner
C-Duncan, Splitter,
Need one more player to round out the 15
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:32 am
Disregard the extra PF and C spots as well as last line- Had some operator error going on.
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:20 am
Like this a lot. Watched part of one of the Vegas games online and Neal seemed like a good basketball player and shooter, if not a great athlete. I concur with the poster above who pointed out that it is unlikely that a 3-yr guaranteed contract would be offered to a random summer league roster filler. Seems likely that the Spurs have been watching him for awhile.
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:23 am
With RMJ and Bogans gone, replaced with Anderson, Neal, Temple, we are replacing experienced players with inexperienced players! I like Anderson and Temple, but experience matters. I have some concerns…
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:42 am
I like this 12 man unit!
duncan
mcdyess
jefferson
ginobili
parker
splitter
blair/bonner
anderson/gee?
neal
hill
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:45 am
Saw every Summer League game and there was just not a lot of shooting on display from any team. Neal definitely left a mark. He wasn’t just shooting but hitting daggers. He was always under control (unlike Gee) and played like a professional… he’s a SPUR.
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:56 am
Taking major issue with the wording of “falsely accused of rape in a coverup”. Read up on the story; legally acquitted does not equate to false accusation or imply that no incident took place. The event in question is reprehensible. Hope further research, if you care to do any, doesn’t ruin your enjoyment of future Gary Neal 3 pointers!
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:00 am
CP3 trade scenario:
Parker, McDyess, Gee, and 1st rounder in 2011
For
Chris Paul, James Posey
NO would get expiring contracts (McDyess is only partially guaranteed in 2011), a chance to sign another good, young PG or use him as an expiring contract at trade deadline (Parker), and young talent (Gee and 1st rounder next year). The Spurs would get a top 5 talent when healthy and the perimeter defender we’ve wanted. Since Demps is now the head cheese in NO, I wonder if that gives us any inside track. Thoughts?
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:04 am
Why not Curley Neal Instead!
Jeez, If we needed a shooter then we should have picked up a veteran proven player. The guy wasn’t bad during summer league but how many guys have had outstanding summer leagues and did nothing during the regular season…. like Dante Green, he scored 30 and over 40pts in the summer league.
Jefferson at 9.7 Million a year wow, for 4years is way to much for a player on the decline.
If they where going to pay him that much at most a three year deal.
He actually was rewarded for playing bad!
Bonner gets paid almost twice as much as Splitter??
I remember when Stephen Jackson had a great Playoff run and all he wanted was 15 million for
4years and we wouldn’t give it to him.
Sometimes our Spurs don’t make sense!
Now we are stuck with Jefferson and Bonner until they are 34yrs old.
Doesn’t make sense… Doesn’t make sense!
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:10 am
Gee will end up in Austin. Might as well since you can do it for one more year. Hairston will finally get his shot if he shows improvement. And then he’ll have to prove consistency as Gee waits in the wings.
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:10 am
Love erinc’s comments above. Thanks for sharing your first hand knowledge of Neal, and your affection for him. I’m anxious to see him suit up for the Spurs.
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:11 am
Terrific insights from you new folks, thanks for dropping in.
Roger Mason hit a high percentage until the finger injury and was always eager to take the big shot, which is not true of all role players. He also had a good attitude and work ethic. It’s really too bad it didn’t work out here. That said, Gary Neal has a much better stroke. Mason always seemed to hit the rim, even when he made shots. He also shot better after a dribble or other maneuver which put his body out of position than when he was squared up. Because of that I thought he was a bad choice for the All-Star 3 Point Shooting Contest (Bonner would have done much better).
Neal has classic form, balanced with everything moving in the same direction. Of course results matter more than style points and Neal has yet to play an NBA game, but I said he was a natural shooter after game 1 in which he only shot a few times.
The Spurs probably figured they’d use Summer League to watch his ball handing, defense, interaction with coaches and such and then invite him to training camp. Good plan, until he single-handedly ended the Memphis game in only three minutes. After that I imagine he was getting calls from everyone, so the Spurs had to lock him up.
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:21 am
Why dont we hear something about C PAul?
HE wants out.
Parker for Paul Straight up.
Parker/MAnu/McDOosh
FOR
Paul/Okafor/Posey
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:23 am
A Guy Who Likes Facts:
I don’t think any of us knows the facts here, sa is typical of a case like this when he says one thing, she says another. But that’s why we have judges and juries. I certainly don’t think something like date rape should be swept under the rug. But it would also be unjust for an innocent man to be falsely branded a rapist for the rest of his life.
Lacking further knowledge, I think we can assume his innocence and leave it at that. If the Spurs were to limit their rosters to players who had never had consensual sex or partied in college, they’d have a pretty short list to choose from.
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:29 am
Hobson13,
I don’t think NO is so retarded as to take Dice in a cp3 trade. We would have to give up Hill or Blair with TP, imo.
Doesn’t hurt to offer Dice first though. Who knows?
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:38 am
I think that you actually need 13 players to be signed and 12 to be active game day.
I believe this will be Spurs Roster of 13 signed players:
Parker (le live en le paint) G Hill (defender/scorer)
G Neal (shooter/sniper)
Ginoboli (THINGS THAT DON’T MAKE SENSE) G Temple (defender/all around)
Jefferson (SLASHER/FINISHER/DEF?) Hairston (defender/strong wing)
J Anderson (shooter/scorer)
Duncan (LIVING LEGEND) Blair (BEAST)
Splitter (LONG SKILLED BIG) McDyss (REB/DEF/MID RANGE)
Bonner (stretch 4/shooter)
5 bigs
5 wings
5 guards
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:44 am
@TradeTP
“Parker/MAnu/McDOosh
FOR
Paul/Okafor/Posey”
No, No, No.
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:44 am
Ok, Trade Tp:
First of all, why would we want OkaFor, when we have Splitter? Secondly, Manu is better than Paul, and Posey, multipled 3 times together. Manu’s got more heart, and he’s more of a complete player. If they are going to trade TP, and second, (or a first round draft pick if they don’t like the second round) round draft pick. It’s a win win. I would also like a second round pick from New Orleans, if we could get it.
July 22nd, 2010 at 12:06 pm
If we as Spurs fans have learned anything over the last decade, is that the Spurs overseas scouting is near the top of the league. Don’t thing for a minute that this was a summer league decision. I thought Neal was the best player in summer league, his game is steady and he can flat out shot the ball. I think he brings much more to the table than just a great stoke. Congrats to him and his family.
P.S. This is the writing on the wall for Gee, great athlete but he gambles to much on Defense….He’ll be in Austin or in a suit.
July 22nd, 2010 at 12:09 pm
Want to make it clear that I do think what happened back in 2003 was wrong on a moral level, even if not on a legal one.
July 22nd, 2010 at 12:14 pm
hey trade tp
okafor sucks
went to a spurs hornets home game last season. okafor’s statline read 2 pts 2 reb in over 30 min of action. even a 36 year old mcdyess is better than okafor. and james poseY? overweight, out of shape, try-to-injure-tim-duncan james posey? forget about it.
July 22nd, 2010 at 1:26 pm
Hoopster
July 22nd, 2010 at 9:30 am
“Need one more player to round out the 15.”
Amundson.
Dave J
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:23 am
“With RMJ and Bogans gone, replaced with Anderson, Neal, Temple, we are replacing experienced players with inexperienced players! I like Anderson and Temple, but experience matters. I have some concerns…”
Very good point, Dave!
Hobson13
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:00 am
“CP3 trade scenario:
Parker, McDyess, Gee, and 1st rounder in 2011
For
Chris Paul, James Posey”
That’s a decent deal for both teams, but I’m thinking that if the Hornets traded Paul, they would want a young star to start in their front court, and just throw the talented Collison into the fire at the point. We don’t have a young front court star to offer, and we couldn’t really keep TP, Manu, & CP3; it would be too much star power for 2 positions. They would probably want Hill and/or Blair to be part of the deal.
leoniss
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:04 am
“If we needed a shooter then we should have picked up a veteran proven player.”
I agree.
“Now we are stuck with Jefferson and Bonner until they are 34yrs old.
Doesn’t make sense… Doesn’t make sense!”
That’s certainly a head-scratcher.
Trade TP
July 22nd, 2010 at 11:21 am
“Parker/MAnu/McDOosh
FOR
Paul/Okafor/Posey”
Hornets are going to want a young & promising front court player in any deal for Paul, perhaps even a front court star would be required. They don’t need a star PG that much; they have Collison.
July 22nd, 2010 at 1:40 pm
“Hornets are going to want a young & promising front court player in any deal for Paul, perhaps even a front court star would be required. They don’t need a star PG that much; they have Collison.”
I think NO would be very interested in Parker for a couple reasons. First, he would give Darren another year to learn and gain experience and to find out if he is the best choice at PG. Second, Tony will be a valuable trade chip if Darren is the answer.
I think NO would seriously think about TP and Blair/Hill and maybe a throw in (we can only hope it’s Boner).
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:05 pm
“I like Anderson and Temple, but experience matters. I have some concerns”
I share your concerns but I will say one thing. Mason and Bogans last year were pretty worthless despite their “experience”. I would love someone who was both productive and experienced but barring that I’d rather develop young talent and hope they’re ready come playoffs. Looking back on last year I would have much rather Hairston got Bogans and Mason’s minutes experience or not.
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:06 pm
As far as the 14th and 15th roster spots go, most teams (including the Spurs) usually keep the last roster spot open (or they keep a non-guaranteed contract that can be easily released) in the event that a 2 for 1 trade emerges.
And it’s unlikely we would keep Gee in SA if he’s not going to be on the active roster. Most likely, we’d send him back to the Toros where he’d see more playing time.
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
I think we’re overvaluing experience a bit here. Experience is valuable to a point, but what do you gain by having experienced players that don’t perform (like RMJ and Bogans last year)? In the end, it’s talent that should be valued more heavily. And we need as much talent, no matter how experienced, more than anything.
And again, Neal isn’t your typical rookie. He has experience at a very high level.
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:23 pm
@ johnny
I love this description of Manu’s skill set “Ginoboli (THINGS THAT DON’T MAKE SENSE)” ROFL
As for the trade TP comments. He has won like 3 rings sliced and diced the Cavs D in the last finals we where in to win the MVP award. One of the regulars on here commented B4 that he and his buddies where crunching stats for all the point guards playoff numbers per 48 min and Tony Parker won out in all stats except apg where he trailed only Steve Nash. I wish I could find this post so I could quote it directly……………
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:29 pm
Neal proved he can score during summer leagues I saw. He is a nice piece to add to the 2010/2011 Spurs puzzle. We can always use another guy who can shoot.
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:33 pm
Lenneezz
July 22nd, 2010 at 1:40 pm
“I think NO would seriously think about TP and Blair/Hill and maybe a throw in (we can only hope it’s Boner).”
My main point was that the Hornets are unlikely to do a deal for Cp3 without getting back a “star, or very promising” front court player. If we put Blair in that might help attract a deal for TP, since TP has a large expiring. It is doubtful the Hornets will want to add any long-term contracts (e.g., Bonner, RJ). They might be open to Gee, Hairston, Dice, etc. as throw-ins, and/or future draft picks. The Hornets would probably be open to unloading West and his contract as well, and replacing him with a cheaper option until Blair more fully develops. If they unload Paul, it will be to fully engage a rebuilding process. TP would be to keep their fans happy for a year. Blair & pieces would be the “future” part of the deal. I don’t know if that’s enough, plus I don’t know if I’d want Paul under these circumstances. I don’t like the LeBron James trend of ME ME ME need to win a title NOW. Give it to me on a silver platter or I’m going to take my ball & go home. Utter BS, and TERRIBLE for the future of the league.
Tyler
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Neal is not proven like a Jason Kapono, for example. And that increases our risk of being successful with a key role on the team.
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:38 pm
REGARDING
A Guy Who Likes Facts, who stated:
“legally acquitted does not equate to false accusation or imply that no incident took place. The event in question is reprehensible.”
The presumption of Innocence means he is innocent until PROVEN guilty. He was never proven guilty of any crime.
As a former prosecutor, I can assure you that cops lie, witnesses lie, and yes, so do defendants. However, juries are almost always ready to convict if prosecutors “the good guys” ask juries to do their civic duty and show the “bad guys” that crimes have consequences.
O.J. notwithstanding, it’s generally easier to get convictions against black males than just about any other demographic, especially if you have jurors who think black people are all criminals. Sad to say, but there’s more than a small minority of supposedly religious people who harbor such absurd views. I’ve seen it first hand in our justice system. It’s pretty easy to convict most defendants, 95% of the time, unless the case was bullshit to begin with. Remember the Duke LaCrosse scandal?
I say we trust that Pop and R.C. have the brains to keep making the choices that result in the Spurs organization remaining the pure class in all of professional sports. Let’s give the guy a little respect, he’s earned it by working hard and chasing his dream to play in the NBA.
July 22nd, 2010 at 3:27 pm
This a good ordeal for Neal, however people let’s keep in mind that it is not guaranteed and nothing more than a tryout. I think that Neal is a good player. Nevertheless with the lack of ball handling skills to play the PG spot on the NBA level, the biggest question that will decide if he is still in the NBA when contracts are guaranteed in January is his ability or lack therefore of to guard NBA shooting guards being that he is only 6’4″
July 22nd, 2010 at 4:21 pm
A great signing imo. People will say he’s not this or not that… but in comparison to what? He’s a piece, a potentially really good piece, at an inexpensive price (I would assume). Nice gamble by the kid to try the summer league route; a shrewd move to pick the Spurs really. It’s a perfect fit if you view him in terms of a Steve Kerr type player: he’s bigger, more athletic, a better defender, and a more diverse shooter/scorer. As was previously mentioned, he’s been successful in college (one of only three players in NCAA history to score more than 1,000 points for two divison 1 schools) and overseas (the top scorer as the primary offensive option on Benetton Treviso in the Italian League @ 20 ppg). He’s seasoned, has a high basketball i.q. and knows his limitations which allows him to play efficiently. Doesn’t that sound like a Pop type player?
July 22nd, 2010 at 4:24 pm
This does draw us closer with the Lakers…now we also have a player cleared of rape charges?!?
Amazing how that is now an afterthought regarding Bryant.
July 22nd, 2010 at 4:30 pm
“Amazing how that is now an afterthought regarding Bryant.”
Not in my book, but I never liked the guy anyway
July 22nd, 2010 at 4:55 pm
“My main point was that the Hornets are unlikely to do a deal for Cp3 without getting back a “star, or very promising” front court player.”
I agree. If they unload CP3, then they will be in full scale rebuilding mode. They will also want someone to take a contract like Okafor or Posey to help with their cap situation. I disagree when you say you don’t think we have the necessary pieces to pull a deal off. I think we have a number of young pieces they would like. The ultimate question is at what cost? Would they want Parker, McDyess (partially expiring contract), Blair, and Anderson/Gee? That, to me, is too high a price. Although Parker could walk for free, our young pieces are VERY cost effective since they are on a cheap contract. We can’t trade away our future even for a guy like Paul (I’ll come back to this in a minute).
“I don’t like the LeBron James trend of ME ME ME need to win a title NOW. Give it to me on a silver platter or I’m going to take my ball & go home.”
Allow me to rant for a minute:
This is indeed becoming an unsettling trend. Years ago, when the NBA was in it’s infancy, I have no doubt that the owners misused and abused players under contract. I’m sure many of these players had little say in their future. Now we have the Players Union and the pendulum has swung to where the tail is wagging the dog. We now see a trend where arrogant, spoiled, and supremely immature people are attempting to call the shots for hundred million dollar organizations.
In the corporate world, would we see a 25 yr old like James be pampered the way he is even if that 25 yr old had a PHD from Harvard? No way. I think this summer cements a lockout next year. Salaries and many other issues must be corrected so the league can be more viable during tougher economic times.
In one sense, I would love to have Paul on our team. He can (and I believe will again) be a top 5 player in the league. He is one of the 2-3 PG in the ENTIRE NBA who could come in and raise everyones level of play, including “Koopa” Jefferson. However, for the next 24 months, I would be worried that us Spurs fans would be watching another 1 hour “Decision” where Paul decides to “take his talents to NY.” Bottom line: I wouldn’t part with a great deal of young talent (outside of Parker) unless he immediately signed an extension. If he weren’t willing to do that then he needs to stay in NO and honor the contract he eagerly signed two years ago.
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:09 pm
Like I’ve said before, I think we’re being too harsh on James. On his stupid decision to do “The Decision” but on his desire to move. He spent 7 years without a Pippen, Gasol, Kareem, Ginobili, or anyone else like that. I certainly didn’t think the Cavs were going to get their roster together anytime soon.
Here’s an interesting article on TrueHoop that talks about this.
http://espn.go.com/blog/truehoop/post/_/id/18462/magic-johnson-sought-elite-teammates-too
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:12 pm
Tyler
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:12 pm
“And again, Neal isn’t your typical rookie. He has experience at a very high level.”
Completely Agree. If taking previous examples of successful players in Europe transitioning to NBA, you can see good players are still good players no matter where they play. Experience, poise and talent translate in any league/arena.
Jim Henderson
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:33 pm
“Neal is not proven like a Jason Kapono, for example. And that increases our risk of being successful with a key role on the team.”
I’m sorry, Jason Kapono? Since when did he become a proven (clutch) playoff performer? I think when one weighs the cost/reward of both players, the system/player fit and potential upside, Neal looks like a real steal. We just haven’t seen him on Tv every other night for the last four years like Kapono. The reality is there’s a risk with anyone outside of a: Steve Kerr, James Posey, Bruce Bowen, Robert Horry type player- a proven clutch player. After that, they’re all crap shoots. I just happen to really like the potential of Neal being a clutch type player more so than anyone else left out there.
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:30 pm
You say Hairston was “safe enough to keep out of Vegas” - does this mean he’s a lock for another season? With Neal signing to a guaranteed contract, I just don’t see how the Spurs will retain both Gee and Hairston. As I understand it, Hairston does not have Toros eligibility any more, so I thought Neal’s 3-year contract meant the end of Hairston as a Spur?
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:42 pm
“If they unload Paul, it will be to fully engage a rebuilding process.”
Chris initiated this trade speculation. He wants out of NO; NO won’t gut their team now. A trade of Chris does not warrant or guarantee that David gets traded.
Why are you, Jim, so sure that NO will demand a young front court star? They have West, Marks, Okafor, Gray (a 7 ft FA) and Brackins. Not to mention Peja, who is 6’10″. NO is short handed at the guard position. I think Hill and TP would be required for the deal.
I would take Chris in a second for Tony, George and say Malik. Chris is one of those special players that makes other guys around him better. Any chance at SA acquiring Chris Paul should be seriously pursued.
July 22nd, 2010 at 6:05 pm
@Ian
I think Hairston’s in a better position than Gee is on making the roster. As I recall Hairston would have played last year, most likely, come playoffs had he not been injured. Gee still needs time to develop more control and a consistent long range shot to really help the Spurs imo. Hairston’s defense is steps ahead of Gee as well.
July 22nd, 2010 at 6:15 pm
Ian, the Spurs can carry 15. Assuming they sign Anderson and cut Jerrells they’ll be at 14. There is always a player (or two or three) with some kind of injury and/or need for rest (e.g. Timmy on back-to-backs) so #13 and 14 will get to dress often. Plus Gee and Temple (and even Anderson) can get minutes with the Toros.
The main issue with this 14 man roster is we really only have 1 true SF and 1 true PG. The others who will get minutes at those positions are combos who would ideally be playing SG.
July 22nd, 2010 at 6:31 pm
if NO can’t persaude Paul to stay, they will force somone to take Okafor or West as well.
TP can walk out of NO next summer, so we’d have to give up other assets that can really help them over a longer term. They are virtually under the cap, and aren’t gonna be much of an FA destination, so they don’t want cap space. They want talent and youth/draft picks. TP + a draft pick + Hill/Blair/Splitter or (maybe Anderson) might be enough to get Paul, but worse, we’d still have to give up more to take Okafor. CP can make Jefferson (and everyone else) a good Spurs fit offensively, is a threat from deep, and is a guy who can take over a game, but, considering how much the Spurs have valued Bonner and RJ, expect them to stick with TP for another year.
If NO is savvy enough and they can get TP + assets and dump Okafor, they can then trade TP (to Portland, NJ or NY) for more assets, getting maximum return for Chris Paul. But I don’t see SA doing what it would take to acquire CP. Portland, in contrast, can and will offer some combination of Miller, Batum, Adridge and Oden or Camby, and would be willing to take on Okafor to get Paul.
The guy I wish we could trade is Matt Bonner. The Knicks want a stretch big, but W Chandler isn’t a fit for us. Gallinari and Azubuike are likely starters, but would they part with Turiaf? The problem is on our end… I wish the Spurs weren’t so in love with our big red defensive liability who can’t shoot under pressure.
July 22nd, 2010 at 7:07 pm
ROC well said
July 22nd, 2010 at 7:46 pm
Re: Hairston. While I doubt there are any promises for him, I’m sure if he were closer to being cut than making the team they would have told him so he could’ve been in Vegas fighting for his roster spot.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:23 pm
@ Jesse
Great point. I think out of the Temple, Hairston, Gee, and Jerrels bag, Malik is as close to a lock as you can get, with Temple no too far behind. Gee and Jerrels will be taking their talents to Austin where they can see more floor time.
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:38 pm
Experience? Really guys give me a break. Tell me how much experience Beaubois had when he was running up and down the court on the Spurs? If Neal was actually playing alot of minuets in the Euro League I consider that good experience. Enough with the trade TP malarky it makes no sense to give up TP and Blair for a non championship winner in CP3. I really do not like the terms of the Jefferson deal but I think with a season under his belt he will play much better. I cant wait for tip-off!!
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:53 pm
I wish Gary Neal the very best and I really hope that he does well with the Spurs. However in comparison to Steve Kerr, yes he has more size than Kerr but guys like Steve Kerr and B.J. Armstrong were pure shooters something that Gary is not. Steve played over 900 NBA games and he shot over 47% for his career.
Samething with B.J. Armstrong he played nearly 750 NBA games throughout his career and he shot nearly 48% as well. There is a difference between pure shooters and streaky shooters. Also lets be honest the NBA summer league is a total different game than the NBA.
Who do you think a GM would take first Juan Dixon or Gary Neal?
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:10 pm
Badger
July 22nd, 2010 at 2:38 pm
Solid post, Badger.
bduran
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:09 pm
“He spent 7 years without a Pippen, Gasol, Kareem, Ginobili, or anyone else like that. I certainly didn’t think the Cavs were going to get their roster together anytime soon.”
Yeah, they only won 127 games in the last two years. And, no, James was FAR from the only reason. He had plenty of talent to help, and the team was constantly willing to spend money to add talent to the roster, even “consulting” James on a regular basis. By the way, who else was with MJ that was great other than Scotty during their 1st repeat. NOBODY. MJ won a title with Luc Longley starting at center! James hasn’t been playing with chopped liver. Jamison’s a 2-time all-star, Moe Williams has been a borderline all-star as of a couple of years ago, and he’ll probably rebound from a mediocre year last year “now that James is gone”! Shaq & Ilgauskas, even as aging vets are something a lot of challengers would have loved to have chipping in on the front court. I could describe the value of each player up & down the roster, but it’s a waste of my time (e.g., they have three of the top 13 active career 3-point shooters in the entire league). Byron Scott will turn that team around. You just watch. Right now, they just need another center, and a SF, and they’ll be in good shape, probably win 50 games their 1st year without James, on their way to 60 again in subsequent years, and this time without players that shut down in a playoff series because all he can think about is taking “his talents to South Beach”! What a punk. Byron Scott won’t put up with that kind of crap from ANY player.
roc
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:12 pm
“I’m sorry, Jason Kapono? Since when did he become a proven (clutch) playoff performer?”
Jason Kapono happens to be the TOP, NUMBER ONE, active career three-point shooter in the ENTIRE league (44%). He’s had the opportunity to perform in two playoffs, and promptly shot 54%! What don’t you get? Because he hasn’t had the good fortune of being on one of the “handful” of teams in the entire 30-team league that has won a title in the past 12 years, somehow that makes him unworthy as a “clutch” shooter?! You’re not really going to say that you’d take Neal over Kapono, are you? A guy that’s hit three’s in college, Europe, and summer league?! Please, let’s get real!
“I just happen to really like the potential of Neal being a clutch type player more so than anyone else left out there.”
Fine, I don’t dislike Neal as a more affordable prospect. But the fact is, he’s much more of a gamble to truly have an impact on our team this year than Kapono is.
Lenneezz
July 22nd, 2010 at 5:42 pm
“Why are you, Jim, so sure that NO will demand a young front court star? They have West, Marks, Okafor, Gray (a 7 ft FA) and Brackins. Not to mention Peja, who is 6’10″.”
Peja is clearly declining, and has a huge contract. Gray & Marks are nothing more than adequate back-up centers. Brackins is a second round pick that is completely unproven. West is an undersized PF that’s a poor rebounder, and is now hitting the back end of his prime years. They need young, athletic, front court help, preferably a star SF to take over for Peja (or West), who’s been injury-plagued, and is now 33 years old. For Paul, that’s what they’re going to want. They have two VERY talented YOUNG players in the backcourt in Collison & Thorton. They would want a good back-up PG and/or SG in the deal as well.
Tyler
July 22nd, 2010 at 8:23 pm
I’m quite sure you’re correct about that. Hairston & Temple are ahead of Gee & Jerrells.
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Irresponsible journalism, Blanchard, plain and simple. He’s innocent of the crime, but
“Falsely accused of rape” is inaccurate. The facts of the case are he and his roomate had sex with the 19 year old girl while she was drunk; if it was consensual is unknown. We do know he initially told his coaches it was only oral sex, but then DNA tests and condoms proved Neal was lying.
And “cast out of LaSalle” is a complete misrepresentation if one expects a university to hold a student whose $100,000 education it’s paying for to a certain standard of behavior, like, I don’t know…
DON’T get some underage girl drunk at your place, double team her with your roomate, and then lie about it only being oral. The other defendant initially lied to his coaches that it never even happened.
And yes, Mr. I am so witty that I name myself Badger, there are facts in this case, if you bother to stop navel gazing for a second and actually look them up.
Neal and his roommate both had sex with a 19 year old visiting student when she kept passing out from alcohol in their town home. Sick stuff, but it’s even more reprehensible that this blog would paint Neal as the victim.
Oh, and Neal’s other roomate who lived in the same townhome? he was accused of rape, too, in another trial. That’s the one the coaches allegedly tried to cover up when they heard the girls story, and didn’t report it because they said “she told them to keep it secret.”
What’s next from this blog? How Alvin Robertson is so misunderstood?
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:10 am
Jim Henderson
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:10 pm
Mr. Henderson, the point I was making is that Kapono is just as unproven a commodity in clutch situations as Neal. They’ve both performed in top level leagues for a number of years now. If you’ve seen Neal play for any length of time, you would know he actually has a great stroke. He was more of a scorer for Benetton Treviso out of necessity. And please don’t bring up the Kapono playoff experience- he’s played ten (10) playoff games in his seven-year NBA career and all in the first round. You know, a realistic argument could be made that Neal actually has more pressure games under his belt when you consider the eleven Eurocup games he’s started in.
So, numbers are numbers and they can be manipulated in whatever way one chooses to support one’s argument. That’s valid.
“What don’t you get?… You’re not really going to say that you’d take Neal over Kapono, are you? A guy that’s hit three’s in college, Europe, and summer league?! Please, let’s get real!”
Well, that’s actually what I’ve said, yes. And I’ve stated a few facts and reasons to support my opinion. We happen to disagree. That’s fair. But a warning about the excessive PUNCTUATIONS and unnecessary CAPS to impress your opinion. They do add an air of insolence to your argument. Some might take offense at the bad public forum etiquette. Me? I just think it tends to undermine any valid/reasonable argument one is trying to make. But that’s just me.
GO! SPURS! GO! (on that we can agree)
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:50 am
This is just basketball. Why the heck is anyone bringing up the rape case against Neal that happened a few years ago? People mess up. Move on. He’s a proven shooter (at least in Europe, and the SL) and thats what the Spurs NEED. Besides, soemone must have loved him, because i’ve heard he just got married. Imagine how much she’s heard about that, but chose to forgive him, and move on with it. Seems like he’s changed a little bit from his college days. I whish him the best. Besdies, if his signing does pay off, we might end up getting a championship this year. (Not because of him, but partly because of him).
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:59 am
I still haven’t seen Neal’s deal yet. Is he, in fact, guaranteed for 3 years (I believe I read somewhere that it was)? Or is it simply a make-good contract?
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:19 am
Great signing, Spurs need some REAL 3 pt. shooting. Now replace Bogans with Gee and things are looking up.
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:20 am
Wow, Draftexpress is the worst site ever. I guess the Spurs just read that site and sign players. Probably why they signed Haislip too.
Seriously it was a huge joke last year when Haislip was reported as being one of the top players in Europe…..yeah right absolutely comical.
Now it’s Gary Neal’s turn……lol unbelievable.
These guys are not even considered good players in Europe. Draftexpress and the Spurs managers need to put the crack pipe down.
I can think of 50 players at least in Europe better than Neal.
July 23rd, 2010 at 7:24 am
Lakers just singed Barnes to a 2yr/3.6 million dollar deal. He would have been perfect in silver and black. We had the money but went with younger guys. I guess Barnes wasn’t interested in becoming a Spur. Lakers continue to improve
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Jim,
“By the way, who else was with MJ that was great other than Scotty during their 1st repeat”
Yeah, but Scotty is an all time great. We just overlook him a lot because MJ is the GOAT. I remeber a WP48 analysis that showed MJ’s support being significantly superior to Lebron’s, if I can find it again I’ll link it.
As to your point about Lebron having a say in who to bring in I think that was part of the problem. MJ, despite being an amazing player, doesn’t have a stellar track record with personnel decisions. I wonder what Lebron would have accomplished with a coach like Phil Jackson. I don’t think he would have made the mistake of babying Lebron.
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:41 pm
ChillFAN
July 22nd, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Chilli, you’re making too much of this. We simply don’t have ALL the facts on this case. From what I understand, we simply don’t know whether Neal was involved in a rape or not, but we do know that the evidence in this case was not strong enough for the jury to be confident that a crime was committed. From what we know, it is apparent that his behavior at the time showed an appalling lack of judgment, and it also shows the potential that alcohol can have in contributing to deleterious actions and consequences for all the parties involved. The case has now been concluded for almost 5 years (Neal would have been 20 years old at the time). Thus, our only tact can be to assess whether or not Neal’s subsequent life has been in the direction of redemption & good character, and whether we believe that he’s gotten himself on a firm path. It is not useful to go on forever in righteous indignation about an individual’s past actions that have been properly adjudicated by our legal system, particularly since we simply do not know for sure “the extent” of even his moral guilt or innocence in this case.
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:49 pm
roc
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:10 am
“Mr. Henderson, the point I was making is that Kapono is just as unproven a commodity in clutch situations as Neal. They’ve both performed in top level leagues for a number of years now. ”
That is ridiculous. You’re going to compare Neal’s clearly lower level experience with Kapono’s 54% shooting in the NBA PLAYOFFS?!
“And please don’t bring up the Kapono playoff experience– he’s played ten (10) playoff games in his seven-year NBA career and all in the first round.”
I see, because he hasn’t had the opportunity to play in hundreds of playoff games, you want to entirely discount the ten playoff games that he’s shot exceedingly well in. I guess you’ll only look at shooters that have had the good fortune to play for several years on the Spurs, Lakers, Celtics, Pistons, and a very small number of other teams. That’s a pretty short list of shooters that could even possibly be available. And that’s ridiculous!
“You know, a realistic argument could be made that Neal actually has more pressure games under his belt when you consider the eleven Eurocup games he’s started in.”
I give up!
“But a warning about the excessive PUNCTUATIONS and unnecessary CAPS to impress your opinion. They do add an air of insolence to your argument. Some might take offense at the bad public forum etiquette. Me? I just think it tends to undermine any valid/reasonable argument one is trying to make. But that’s just me.”
YOU’RE too easily offended, and are making an unwarranted judgment about my intent in using the caps. Without text editing, CAPS are simply the easiest way to EMPHASIZE a particular word or point (to make the point more clear). Such as when I responded to you’re obviously absurd discounting of the point that, at the NBA level, “Kapono has the highest active career 3-point percentage in the entire league.” I know that European basketball has improved considerably over the years, but you can’t honestly say that they’re on the same level as the NBA.
Tyler
July 23rd, 2010 at 5:59 am
“I still haven’t seen Neal’s deal yet. Is he, in fact, guaranteed for 3 years (I believe I read somewhere that it was)? Or is it simply a make-good contract?”
Yeah, I’d like to know the answer to that too. I don’t know why it’s such a secret. Barnes was signed by Lakers after Neal, and we already know what Barne’s contract terms are.
Michael
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:20 am
“I can think of 50 players at least in Europe better than Neal.”
Draft Express did not rank Neal in comparison to ALL of the players in Europe. Just those that were available as free agents.
bduran
July 23rd, 2010 at 12:28 pm
“I wonder what Lebron would have accomplished with a coach like Phil Jackson. I don’t think he would have made the mistake of babying Lebron.”
That may have helped him. I guess we’ll never know.
July 23rd, 2010 at 1:49 pm
This is a good team we just need to get rid of Hairston and get Gee and maybe get Fabricio? or Elson?
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:09 pm
I am defending Jim’s analysis regarding Kapono. Kapono IS proven in the nba. As Neal is not. That’s a given. However, there are some intriguing aspects regarding Neal that may prove positive to the Spurs team. The Spurs have always found talent in the raw that (seemingly) other teams can not find.
And it could be that the Spurs think they can develop this talent in Temple, Gee and Neal to be as productive as bringing in a talent as Kapono. Though I would be more at ease having a proven 3-point specialist such as Kapono on the team…perhaps the situation at hand does not lend itself to that option at this time.
You would also have to consider what these players would be providing on the defensive side of the team. And if one or two of these players can provide a better defensive presence though not providing as much in 3-point effectiveness (yet close) they may be a better option.
What I do see regarding the “upside” these players the Spurs have managed to find and bring in to the organization is a possibility of legitiment colateral to use at a later time to perhaps arrange a deal to land an integeral proven player later in the near future. This of course depending on their ability to perform and at what level. To which they may become more valuable to keep than to trade away.
I am in agreement with pursuing Amundson as well as maybe pursuing Josh Boone as an equal or alternative scenario.
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:36 pm
@Bayareaspursfan
“Enough with the trade TP malarky it makes no sense to give up TP and Blair for a non championship winner in CP3.”
If Buford were offered the CP3 for TP & Blair trade he might just explode from excitement.
He would take it 100% of the time. Guaranteed.
Ask around if you don’t think so.
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:56 pm
“@ Jim
Peja is clearly declining, and has a huge contract. Gray & Marks are nothing more than adequate back-up centers. Brackins is a second round pick that is completely unproven. West is an undersized PF that’s a poor rebounder, and is now hitting the back end of his prime years.”
West is 30 years old and in the prime of his career. His rebounding numbers are solid (8/gm, 35 mins) for a shooting PF. He is 6’9″, 240lbs; certainly not undersized. Craig Brackins was a 1st round pick and would have been a lottery pick in 2009. His draft stock dropped after an injury.
The Hornets owner would most likely be looking to dump salary if Chris bolts. Taking Emeka or Peja with CP3 would be the problem for SA.
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:58 pm
@Lenneezz
“If Buford were offered the CP3 for TP & Blair trade he might just explode from excitement.
He would take it 100% of the time. Guaranteed.
Ask around if you don’t think so.”
As bad as I would love to have CP3 on this team and what that would mean. I’m not so sure that giving up Balir and his cheap contract would be the best thing to do at this time.
We will have to see how much Blair improves this season.
TP and Blair for CP3 might be giving up too much from the Spurs side. Though Blair’s cheap contract would help offset Okofur’s contract in a sense that if another team is not willing to take that on as part of a deal…it’s probably the most likely scenario that would make that trade happen because of Blair’s cheap contract if the Hornets were forced to keep Okofur.
And from what I’ve read….CP3 wouldn’t be interested in joining the Spurs. He wants to pair up with another “young” superstar.
July 23rd, 2010 at 3:57 pm
“As bad as I would love to have CP3 on this team and what that would mean. I’m not so sure that giving up Balir and his cheap contract would be the best thing to do at this time.”
Blair would be a tough player to deal. However, you have to give some quality to get alot of quality. A player like Blair will never have the upside of a Chris Paul, never. Physical limitations will prohibit him from ever being an “elite” player. i.e. He will never be a dominant force in the paint because of his height. Can he be really good? You bet. Can he ever compare to a Charles Barkley or Bernard King? Nope, Never. He doesn’t have the skill set to be. He doesn’t have the ball handling or shot to be a Barkley or King. You don’t hold on to a player like that instead of an elite, special talent such as Chris Paul who has ALL THE TOOLS at his position.
It doesn’t surprise me that Chris doesn’t want to go to SA. However, if he did come to SA I know he would be pleasantly surprised. Spurs fans know how to treat players we love.
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:39 pm
I’d rather bring back Nesterovic over Elson or Oberto to be the third center. I’ll be ripped for this next comment. Forget Gee and Hairston and sign Adam Morrison at half price to back up Jefferson. Would that be too many white skinned players for the NBA’s Affirmative Action policy?
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:40 pm
Jim,
I couldn’t find the article I was looking for on Jordan’s team mates, but here’s what I did find.
http://dberri.wordpress.com/2010/04/page/3/
http://www.wagesofwins.com/Pippen.html
So we can at least compare Lebron and his next best team mate this last season to Jordan and Pippen.
Through 77 games last year Lebron had .443 WP48 and 27.1 WP. Varejao had .185 WP48 and 7.9 WP for a combined 35 WP. If you extrapolate out to 82 games you get 37.3 WP. If you use the automated WP numbers (which aren’t quite as good in general because of the position adjustment problem I’ve mentioned before.) you get a combined 33 WP.
Here are Jordan’s and Pippen’s WP48 and WP during their first championship year.
Jordan .437 WP48 27.6 WP
Pippen .321 WP48 20.1 WP
This gives a combined 47.7 wins. Cleveland won 61 games this year, so the rest of Jordan and Pippens team mates would only have to produce 13.3 wins to hit this mark. Pippen played 3014 minutes that year and Jordan played 3034. This leaves 13,632 minutes. So those team mates would only need to average .080 WP48.
Now that I’ve done this I’m not sure what it means.
I’m going to see what I can say about the relative team strength now. Below I’m going to use the wins estimated by basketball-reference pythagorean win-loss as wins produced for the team. It should be really close since Berri’s WP calculations are based on wins estimated by Eff Diff.
Pythag predicted 63 wins for the ’91 Bulls, so i’m guessing Jordan’s and Pippen’s team mates actually produced about 15 wins. The Cavaliers produced 59 wins so the rest of Cavs not named Lebron or Anderson produced 22 wins. So it looks like Lebron produced about 29 wins and the rest of his team produced about 30 more. Jordan produced about 28 with the rest of his team producing about 35 more. So Jordan’s team was marginally better although outside of the top two it was worse. I’m not sure which is better. Having two amazing players or one amazing player and more average to decent ones.
The following years give more disparity between the 2010 Cavs and Jordan’s team mates. According to the article Jordan never produced more than 25 wins in the following years. Yet the fewest wins produced by his subsequent championship teams was 58 in ’93. So the fewest wins produced by players by Jordan’s team mates was 58-25=33. This is still slightly better than the 30 produced by Lebron’s. Jordan also played on some fantastic teams (those producing 65+ wins).
So I guess the bottom line is that Jordan did manage to win titles with a couple of teams that were only marginally better than the Cavs this year, but he is the GOAT.
I’m sorry if this post lacks clarity or direction. It kinda got away from me. Let me know what you make of it.
July 23rd, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Lenneezz
July 23rd, 2010 at 2:56 pm
“West is 30 years old and in the prime of his career. His rebounding numbers are solid (8/gm, 35 mins) for a shooting PF. He is 6’9″, 240lbs; certainly not undersized.”
30 years old is generally the “backside” of a player’s prime years. In other words, they are generally on the precipice of a slight decline in their overall game, that becomes more pronounced in the 33-34 year old area. For example, if you look at West’s last 4 years, last year he showed a noticeable drop-off in his rebounds per game; averaging 8.6 rpg. in the 3 years prior to last year, and dropping to 7.5 rpg. last year. And for his career, West has averaged just 7.2 rpg., which is very poor for a power forward (49th out of 71 PF’s in total rebound rate last year). West has a nice mid-range jumper, but he’s nothing like a stretch 4. Thus, his rebounding should not be effected because he’s a “shooting” PF. As far as size, listing West at 6’9″ is like listing DeJuan Blair at 6’7″. West is at best 6’8″; Blair is at best 6’6″. BOTH are undersized; Blair is shorter, but much heavier (about 30 lbs.).
“Craig Brackins was a 1st round pick and would have been a lottery pick in 2009. His draft stock dropped after an injury.”
Brackin’s is a decent “prospect”, for a LATE first-round pick (projected to go later this year). That said, the chances of him panning out into something special are still quite slim. Just look at the history of late first round picks over the past 10 years, and what they’ve accomplished in the league as of now. No question it’s a crap shoot. Even late lottery picks are a big question mark for the most part.
“The Hornets owner would most likely be looking to dump salary if Chris bolts. Taking Emeka or Peja with CP3 would be the problem for SA”
That we agree on. The Spurs would not be open to assuming either of those contracts, particularly Okafor’s. Peja’s has value as an expiring, but we don’t have the players/salaries to use as an offset, and still make sense for both teams .
July 23rd, 2010 at 9:59 pm
Lenneezz
July 23rd, 2010 at 3:57 pm
“Can he ever compare to a Charles Barkley or Bernard King? Nope, Never.”
Those players are not the best comparisons. Boozer is the best comparison for Blair’s upside potential. And again, Boozer is undersized; at best 6’8″, regardless of the listings, and Blair is a much better leaper, and probably quicker. Also, Blair is only 21 years old. Often one can’t be sure where a player is headed until at least age 23-24. Blair has the ability to upgrade his skill-set substantially over the next 2-3 years. He was used to playing center and using his power to get easy baskets inside in college. He knows that to be a force in the NBA at his height, he’ll have to become more versatile in what he does on the court. And he can still be a very productive force in the paint, regardless of his height. Is he going to go one-on-one much down in the low post with 6’10 - 7 footers? No, and he doesn’t need to to become an all-star caliber player.
That said, “IF” Chris Paul was willing to make a long-term commitment to the Spurs, I would pull the trigger on a deal of Parker & Blair for Paul. But we won’t have to worry about that because the Hornets probably wouldn’t do that deal, because a Parker/Collison back court is really not the best fit. Both guys are small, are only PG’s, and are too good to share 48 minutes between them. In fact, in my view, they have that problem now, with Paul & Collison, but they’re not going to trade away their franchise player to have the same problem. Plus, there’s a decent chance that the Hornets under-value Blair a bit. And on top of that, Paul wouldn’t want to come to the Spurs (not that he would have much choice in the that for the next two years). He wants to follow LeBron and play with two other “YOUNG STARS”. Good luck with that!
July 24th, 2010 at 9:37 am
@Bduran
“Yeah, but Scotty is an all time great. We just overlook him a lot because MJ is the GOAT. I remeber a WP48 analysis that showed MJ’s support being significantly superior to Lebron’s, if I can find it again I’ll link it.”
Here’s the thing when talking about Jordan.
Jordan made other players better, much much much better. I’m talking about pushing players whenever they stepped on the court; real or practice. Jordan’s practices were legendary. Really. He would push everybody in practice like it really really mattered. He had a major hand in making Pippen and Grant into the NBA players they became.
Pippen and Grant were horrible horrible horrible when they came into the league; unlike MJ who was brilliant from the beginning. (28.2 ppg as a rookie!!)
The difference between Jordan and James is this. MJ kept getting so so co-players and he finally realized that he would have to help them get better to win championships. James actually had better players but couldn’t bring out their best.
MICHAEL BUILT AN ELITE, 6 CHAMPIONSHIP FRANCHISE FROM NOTHING. MJ WAS A CHAMPIONSHIP BUILDER; LeBron, at best, can only be a championship player on DeWayne’s team.
Michael had an amazing will to win; His competitive spirit is second to none. LeBron had the chance to become legendary; it was all right there for him to earn AND HE FOLDED.
It’s not even close.
July 24th, 2010 at 10:14 am
If anything, in ten years basketball fans might be comparing
DeWayne Wade VS Michael Jordan
but LeBron is now an afterthought in the greatest basketball players of alltime conversation.
July 24th, 2010 at 3:07 pm
bduran
July 23rd, 2010 at 6:40 pm
It basically says that LeBrons teams have been getting closer over the past 3 years, but at the age of 25 James decided he’d rather try and buy a title the easy way. See Lenneezz’s post for the rest of how I feel on the issue.
Lenneezz
July 24th, 2010 at 9:37 am
Excellent post! I couldn’t agree more.
July 24th, 2010 at 3:17 pm
Lenneezz
July 24th, 2010 at 10:14 am
“If anything, in ten years basketball fans might be comparing
DeWayne Wade VS Michael Jordan
but LeBron is now an afterthought in the greatest basketball players of alltime conversation.”
Even Wade is damaging his potential legacy by being the lead orchestrator of this plan 3 years ago. He has NO chance of even coming close to MJ, even IF he wins 3 titles with this team over the next 6 years.
Wade does not make his players better like MJ did. Not even close. Even Kobe is lacking in this area, but at least Kobe wasn’t looking to bring in an all-star and the MVP of the league to play with him. Kobe has the leadership skills to will his team to victory (Wade has more of this than LeBron), even if his “game” is lacking compared to MJ in terms of making his teammates play up to their potential.
July 24th, 2010 at 6:26 pm
Here is how two superstars used to act with each other.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykvp1h6q0dc
Both players want to be the best. They were friends off the court BUT NEVER CONSIDERED PLAYING TOGETHER.
July 24th, 2010 at 8:05 pm
On the subject of the LeBracle direction of this thread, I will say that I am now a Kobe fan. Kobe was a selfish player who got Shaq kicked out, suffered through 3 very bad seasons, but then worked his butt off to be able to transcend the team concept and will the Lakers to 2 more titles. Kobe pulled a Jordan. Only those who have read “The Jordan Rules” know what I’m talking about. Will Kobe ever be the GOAT? No, especially when you throw in Shaq and Gasol. But he sure as hell can be in the Top 10 all time.
LeBron will never have that. What a waste.
July 24th, 2010 at 10:36 pm
Lennezz,
I’m not trying to compare Lebron and Jordan. I’m just saying that the Cavs didn’t do a good job building around him. If you want to argue that Jordan could have won with the Cavs then fine. He’s the GOAT and he won twice with only marginally better teams and maybe they were only better because of his presence. However, I’m not gonna get mad at Lebron because he’s not Jordan and I don’t think you could replace Lebron with anyone else other than Jordan and have a realistic shot at a championship.
“Pippen and Grant were horrible horrible horrible when they came into the league; unlike MJ who was brilliant from the beginning. (28.2 ppg as a rookie!!)”
Pippen had a WP48 of .090 his rookie year, which is good for a rookie. The next year he had a .156. I don’t think he came in horrible. Also, his two best years measured by WP48 and WP were in ’93-’95 during Jordan’s first retirement. I’m not saying Jordan didn’t improve his team mates, but I think you’re over stating the situation. Pippen was never horrible and always going to be good and will always be underrated because he had Jordan as a team mate.
Jim,
” but at the age of 25 James decided he’d rather try and buy a title the easy way”
Yes he’s only 25. That’s one way to phrase it. It makes it seem like he’s quitting early. Or you could say that he gave it seven years and decided to move on.
One last thing. Lebron makes his team mates better. He’s unselfish, creates offense, and gets his guys open looks. He does’t have the competitive drive of Wade or Jordan which may have led him to give up when things were looking grim, but he 99% of the time he’s helping his team immensely.
July 25th, 2010 at 12:11 am
To michael or other people doubing the judgement of draftexpress.
I just googled Gary neal in news.google.it, and found the following:
“Sport Mediaset - 24 dic 2009
Ennesima domenica da miglior giocatore del campionato per Gary Neal Lo statunitense della Benetton Treviso 20.2 punti il 64% da due 37% da tre 3.8 rimbalzi … ”
So it seems that you would have to exlcude Italy in a quest of at least 45 better players in Europe to sustain your claim.
On the other Hand, Neal was suspended in April of this year by Beneeton Treviso for partying too much and missing a traning session.
July 25th, 2010 at 2:49 am
bduran
July 24th, 2010 at 10:36 pm
“Or you could say that he gave it seven years and decided to move on.”
MJ didn’t get his 1st title until his seventh year, at age 27, after working his but off, and learning to respect ALL his teammates, and his inexperienced 44 year old coach. In year seven, LeBron lacked the determination & leadership in the playoffs to give his team/coach a real shot, so he essentially quit on them. Everything revolves around LeBron, but when things don’t go as planned he looks around for scapegoats.
“Lebron makes his team mates better.”
Only because he’s a great talent, with an awesome skill-set. However, he lacks the leadership & drive that it takes to get his teammates to play at their very best, in the most important moments.
July 25th, 2010 at 7:29 am
“Pippen was never horrible and always going to be good and will always be underrated because he had Jordan as a team mate.”
Bduran,
Here are Scottie’s rookie stats
MIN 20.9 FG% .463 3% .174 FT% .576 OREB 1.50 DREB 2.30 TREB 3.80 AST 2.1 STL 1.15 BLK .66 TO1.66 PF 2.70 PPG 7.9
Compare to another defensive forward; Shawn Marion
MIN 24.7 FG%0.471 3P% 0.182 FT%0.847 OREB2.1 DREB4.5 TREB6.5 AST1.4 STL0.8 BLK1.0 TO1.00 PF2.22 PPG10.2
(Suns were ranked 3rd DEFENSIVELY and 16th OFFENSIVELY; Before the run n’ gun era started)
Shawn was a better player.
When I say “horrible horrible horrible their rookie years”, I am comparing them to their stellar performance during the championship seasons. I know how Michael pushed his teammates. I lived in Chicago and Tex Winter is a good friend of my family. He told us how MJ was in practice and how he absolutely drove those guys to become very good players.
I think Scottie would have been good, an all star. No way would he have been one of the 50 greatest; no way, no chance. I think Scottie’s career would have been alot like Shawn Marion’s if he hadn’t paired with Michael as a young player.
July 25th, 2010 at 7:31 am
Please don’t tell me that Scottie and Shawn play differently. I know that and I didn’t say that. I said they are both defensive forwards and I said that there careers would have been similar, not their skill sets.
July 25th, 2010 at 7:43 am
“However, I’m not gonna get mad at Lebron because he’s not Jordan”
I’m not disgusted with Lebaby because he’s not Jordan. What I am disgusted with about Lebaby is that he ran away from his failures and did so in a very egomanical fashion. He took the path of least resistance in his career choice. The reason he gets compared to Jordan is that they were best of their time (or supposed to be anyway).
July 25th, 2010 at 7:48 am
A real man would have at least acknowledged Cleveland in his “special”.
“I am sorry fans in Cleveland that we could not reach our ultimate goal. I tried my best to bring a championship to Cleveland and I came up a little short. I did this because this city deserves it. At this time in my career, it is in my best interest to move to Miami. I leave my home state with a heavy heart that we couldn’t reach our goal together.”
HOW FRIGGIN HARD IS THAT??
July 25th, 2010 at 8:13 am
“I’m just saying that the Cavs didn’t do a good job building around him.”
Let me tell you this for certain. If Jordan’s teammates performed like Jamison, Williams, Varrejo or Gibson in the playoffs Mike would have crushed them. First off, his team mates rarely did because they were so well prepared from practices. Second, Mike would have carried them and led by example. THIRD, HE WOULD HAVE GOTTEN DIRECTLY IN THEIR FACES AND SCARED THE SHIT OUTTA EM.
I guess Lebaby was too busy taking fake photos on the court to think about such mundane things.
July 25th, 2010 at 9:11 am
Jim,
“MJ didn’t get his 1st title until his seventh year, at age 27, after working his but off, and learning to respect ALL his teammates, and his inexperienced 44 year old coach.”
I’ve been very clear MJ is the GOAT. MJ’s talent and drive are second to none. Doesn’t change the fact that Lebron played very well for 7 years at Cleveland and then moved on. I agree that he lost his chance at being the next MJ, but that’s okay with me. He doesn’t have to be.
Lennezz,
” did so in a very egomanical fashion.”
This is the only problem I have with what he did. I dont’ care that he left but he did it in an unfortunate manner.
“Shawn was a better player”
So? My point is Pippen was an above average rookie, not “horrible, horrible” like you said. No reason to think that he owes Jordan for the fact that he became a great player. He should thank him every day for the 6 titles, but not for the fact that he was good at basketball.
July 25th, 2010 at 10:12 am
“My point is Pippen was an above average rookie, not “horrible, horrible” like you said. No reason to think that he owes Jordan for the fact that he became a great player. ”
Jesus man, try to understand what I’m saying. His rookie numbers were horrible for SOMEBODY WHO BECAME ONE OF THE FIFTY GREATEST PLAYERS.
Only ONE PLAYER from the 50 greatest list had worse statistics than Pippen his rookie year. That was Sam Jones who got 10 min/gm in 1958/59 coz the Celtics had a monster lineup he couldn’t crack.
He had the worst rookie season out of anybody prorated. Now why do you think Pippen became one of the greats? What reason would you say? Late bloomer? Yeah sure.
July 25th, 2010 at 11:53 am
bduran
July 25th, 2010 at 9:11 am
“Doesn’t change the fact that Lebron played very well for 7 years at Cleveland and then moved on. I agree that he lost his chance at being the next MJ, but that’s okay with me.”
The point is LeBron had the opportunity to be the GOAT, but he “chose” to buy into the whole “king” thing. He was more concerned with his image as a stage icon than about winning, or leading a group of average to good players to the pinnacle of his profession. The fact is, LeBron had more physical gifts than MJ, and an even more dominant all-around game in some respects, but he has now frittered away his potential for ultimate greatness. It’s sad to see, really. LeBron was a guy that could have challenged MJ for GOAT, and that’s something a lot of us are disappointed with — now fully recognizing his chance of maximizing his greatness has been tossed aside into the oceans of South Beach. And for what, so that he could have a chance at “manufacturing merely a symbol of greatness”? Sure, you can be “okay with” that all you want, but it does not change the fact that what LeBron has done is set a very prominent example in our culture that it’s alright to give-up relatively quickly to pursue an easier way to “success”, even if those ultimate accomplishments turn out to be more sand than pounding the rock, more image than substance, both as a professional AND as a person. And this example of cultural decline is happening in other areas of our society as well, from politics to entertainment. LeBron has just become the biggest example of this decline in the field of sports. And that is clearly a shame.
July 25th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
“and an even more dominant all-around game in some respects”
Just curious Jim, in what way is Lebaby more dominant than MJ?
Michael was a better defender, better ball handler, better scorer, better free throw shooter, better leader, took it to the hole more often (hence the better shooting %) & more creatively & just as strong, more clutch, always rose to the occasion and had more presence.
I guess Lebaby gets more assists; which is ironic because MJ kept his teammates more focused.
He shoots slightly better from 3; which is also ironic because shooting 3′s rather than taking it to the hole is one of Lebaby’s problems.
July 25th, 2010 at 1:44 pm
Jim,
“Sure, you can be “okay with” that all you want, but it does not change the fact that what LeBron has done is set a very prominent example in our culture that it’s alright to give-up relatively quickly to pursue an easier way to “success”,”
Lebron may be extremely physically talented and not as hard a worker as MJ, but no one gets as good as he is with out a lot time and effort. I don’t think it’s mentally healthy to be as compulsive as MJ. I think MJ’s bitter HOF acceptance speech makes this clear. Lebron works plenty hard. I don’t like the example he set with doing “The Decision” but I have no problem with his work ethic.
I also believe you should like what you do. If Lebron wasn’t happy and Cleveland he should leave. He doesn’t owe them anything other than leaving in a classier manner. He’s been more than worth the money he was paid to the franchise. He does’t owe to us to be the GOAT either.
Here’s a recent Huffington Post article by Dave Berri. The last paragraph sums it up for me.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-berri/lebron-is-doing-for-himse_b_658348.html
July 25th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Bduran,
Hey man, how old r you? I’m not going to start cr@p with you. I’m merely curious because I see some generational differences. I would bet you aren’t over 30.
I’m 39.
July 25th, 2010 at 2:42 pm
“Hey man, how old r you? I’m not going to start cr@p with you. I’m merely curious because I see some generational differences. I would bet you aren’t over 30.”
I’m 31 so I don’t think it’s generational. I appreciate hard work and self sacrifice. Ultimately though, I believe in working to live instead of living to work and I try to keep in mind that for NBA players, basketball is a job. A great job that pays them tons of money and makes them famous, but a job nonetheless.
I also think company loyalty has value, but I have no problem with people pursuing a good opportunity elsewhere. When someone leaves my office for a job they feel is better, I congratulate them (unless they were jerks about leaving. Clearly I don’t expect Cleveland fans to be happy for Lebron).
July 25th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
Jordan’s acceptance speech wasn’t bitter. He had an argument with Reinsdorf during his career and he finished it on stage. He is just a really competitive guy. Let’s be honest. The guy won 6/8 championships and he woulda won 8 in a row. Only a very special type of personality will ever do that.
Personally, I would not of aired some of that dirty laundry. Then again, I didn’t become the GOAT.
Also, people who were born after 1980 need to realize that they haven’t seen an economic downturn their entire lives. Why do you think some people are calling America socialist nowadays? Because our attitudes have gotten entitled and spoiled. MJ played right after the 70′s when things were hard. Reinsdorf had his agenda and MJ had his. They both had strong opinions and ALOT to protect. Maybe after you’ve lived longer and seen something other than a prolonged 28 year economic expansion you’ll understand. Maybe sooner than later.
July 25th, 2010 at 2:53 pm
Ok Bduran, guess it’s not generational. I just think Lebaby can and did what we wanted. Now the fans can and will judge him and act accordingly.
Obviously, there will be two camps in the future, regarding Lebaby. I’m sure his name will start many good debates.
July 25th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
“Jordan’s acceptance speech wasn’t bitter. He had an argument with Reinsdorf during his career and he finished it on stage.”
He also called out his high school coach. The guy can’t let anything go. I agree this is part of why he is the GOAT, but I don’t think he’s the happiest.
“Also, people who were born after 1980 need to realize that they haven’t seen an economic downturn their entire lives.”
You mean until recently? Anyway, if you want to argue that people feel more entitled now a days i’m not going to argue. Certainly we’re a far cry from the “Greatest Generation”. I don’t like how we deal with celebrity which I think is part of the problem with James. However, I don’t think the act of leaving the Cavs in and of itself is wrong or something that many other good, hard working people haven’t done. The downturn you mention is in large part responsible for the drop in company loyalty. The days of working for one company your whole life is over, for good or bad.
July 25th, 2010 at 7:56 pm
Lenneezz
July 25th, 2010 at 1:06 pm
” ……in what way is Lebaby more dominant than MJ?”
I never said James was more “dominant” than MJ as a player. I said or implied that his physical tools and skill-set is generally as good, or in some cases, superior to MJ’s. He is as fast as MJ was, only he’s 2 inches taller, 50 lbs. heavier, and a good deal stronger. He is not the more “dominant” player because he lacks the leadership, will-power, & work-ethic that MJ had, and is not as committed on the defensive end. Clearly, LeBron is a box score nightmare, but you don’t win championships on only superior box score production.
In short, MJ was a better scorer & defender, LeBron is a better rebounder & passer, and they’re both excellent in all of these areas. Thus, you’ll see MJ excel in things like FG%, ppg., free throws, & steals, & Lebron excel in AST%, apg., & rpg. But again, the main point is that LeBron has comparable tools & skill-sets with MJ, but Jordan will always be the better player because of all the crucial intangibles he brought to bear on the game, and at the games biggest moments.
July 25th, 2010 at 8:10 pm
bduran
July 25th, 2010 at 1:44 pm
“I also believe you should like what you do. If Lebron wasn’t happy and Cleveland he should leave.”
Most of that (happiness, enjoyment) comes from within. And that’s clearly where LeBron should have been looking all along.
“He doesn’t owe them anything other than leaving in a classier manner. He’s been more than worth the money he was paid to the franchise. He does’t owe to us to be the GOAT either.”
I’m a big believer in taking actions that are not only good for myself, my family, and my closest friends from an individual standpoint, but that are ALSO good for my profession AND the larger society/culture. LeBron obviously doesn’t agree.
“Here’s a recent Huffington Post article by Dave Berri. The last paragraph sums it up for me.”
Yeah, I disagree with that last paragraph. Cleveland did more than Chicago did to get LeBron the talent the Cavs needed to contend. LeBron just doesn’t appear to have the wherewithal to be a dominant “winner” at the highest level.
July 27th, 2010 at 8:20 am
OK. it’s gone too far when somebody suggests the Spurs trade for Adam Morrison!! C’mon!!
July 29th, 2010 at 8:21 am
[...] the Spurs executives took a long, hard look at Alonzo Gee. After the summer league, the Spurs signed guard Gary Neal to a guaranteed three year [...]
August 12th, 2010 at 8:18 am
The roster. The Spurs have 11 players on guaranteed contracts: Duncan, Parker, Ginobli, Splitter, McDyess, Jefferson, Blair, Hill, Neal, Bonner and
Anderson. Neal will be the biggest addition after Splitter. I think Pop will go with a 14 man roster so that he can add a player if the opportunity pops up after the season starts. That means there are five training camp players vying for three spots. I think Temple will make it. The Spurs need another taller small forward/power forward type to bolster the front line. That will be a fight between James Gist and Tyler Wilkerson. One of those two should make the cut. That leaves Gee and Jerrells going for spot number 14. Flip a coin on that one. But with all the upcoming young talent I think Pop and Buford have thought it well for the post Duncan era. The team may not be Laker beaters, but they will pose a serious threat against LA, Portland and Dallas in the west. PS I have been an avid Spurs fan since they arrived in San Antonio. I now root for them via NBA League Pass from afar; Florida. Go Spurs, especially G-i-n-o-o-o-b-l-i-i-i!
September 23rd, 2010 at 5:56 am
[...] Gary Neal [...]
September 30th, 2010 at 1:55 pm
[...] will go into camp with Manu Ginobili, George Hill, Richard Jefferson, James Anderson, Alonzo Gee, Gary Neal, Garrett Temple, Bobby Simmons, Thomas Gardner and Kirk Penney at the wings. Many believe the [...]
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