Duncan, Ginobili and Parker are not playing tonight

[NRHector]

they are having the night off

[NRHector]

is true I heard it in the radio that's what bill shoening said manu is a little hurt and tim played too much last night and tony just resting:flag:

[duncan228]

Big Three a Big Zero tonight (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2009/02/big-three-a-big.html)
By Jeff McDonald

No Tim Duncan. No Tony Parker. No Manu Ginobili. That's all that will be missing from the Spurs' lineup tonight at Denver.

A night after the Spurs expended so much energy to get past Golden State in overtime, coach Gregg Popovich just informed the gathered media that he plans to rest each and every member of his Big Three.

The decision on Ginobili comes with a bit of an injury concern. He suffered a left hip contusion taking a fall against the Warriors. With three days off after tonight, Popovich felt it was best to give him the night off.

As for Duncan and Parker, the Spurs' top two scorers? They're just getting the night off "for a variety of reasons," Popovich said.

"Parker makes the All-Star team, becomes hard to deal with, so we're going to sit him and teach him a lesson," Popovich joked. "Duncan says he wants to renegotiate his contract, so I said, 'Sit, I'm not talking to you.' "

Though Popovich wouldn't say so, it's worth wondering if this new and not-so-improved rotation is meant to send a message to the league scheduling wizards, who sent the Spurs to Denver by way of Oakland.

After Monday's overtime win, the Spurs did not lay their heads on their pillows in Denver until close to 4 a.m. Ragged and facing an uphill battle against the Nuggets anyway, Popovich has apparently opted to steal an extra day of rest for his most important players.

[anjlbitz]

jacque vaughn sighting?

[HarlemHeat37]

as I've said before, Pop has reached a new level when it comes to the regular season..he simply no longer gives a fuck in any way..he's giving a win to the team behind us in the standings, so he can rest our guys..I disagree with it, because we have a lot of rest until Boston..but I don't question his methods..

[Joe Schmoogins]

good for them... hope manu especially can get some rest.

[timvp]

Awesome decision :smokin

There was no way the Spurs were going to win the game. The Big Three, especially Manu, looked dead tired after the Warriors win. I was really worried about their health in the game against the Nuggets.

Too short of period of time to rest. In altitude. Against a very good team. All that just adds up to trouble.

I'll just gladly take the L and have the Spurs get a whole bunch of rest before the Boston contest.

[HarlemHeat37]

LOL *waits for whiny Spurs fans to complain about Pop being a "quitter"*..

[mystargtr34]

What a dumb move. He can run them down into the ground tonight, theres nearly a week till their next game.

[Quiet Strength]

I like it. I hope the spurs still win!

[TMTTRIO]

Good they need it. yeah that fall that Manu took the other night worried me. I'm surprised he came back and played as well as he did.

[PM5K]

I guess something like this really let's you know how good you are; when you are really good you don't even have to play, and when you are really bad you don't even get to play when the three most important players on your team aren't even playing, and if you're ok you get to start, but only because the big 3 are resting...

Pop really has it made, he can pretty much do whatever he wants, there are certainly other coaches that probably wouldn't even be allowed to do something like this, much less even have the balls to try..

[TDMVPDPOY]

put money on nuggets to win?

[timvp]

A positive side effect of this decision is that Hill and Mason can get a lot of run ... and they need it. They need to find their groove and you can't really do that without minutes and touches.

Plus it gives the Spurs a good look at Hairston, if they so choose.

[angelbelow]

Go G Hill!

[Ditty]

don't they get paid millions of dollars to play basketball just limit there minutes thats all we need to concetrate abot trying to catch the lakers ginobili should just sit and duncan and parker play no more than 30 minutes

[jdev82]

this is just another of pops jokes.

[raspsa]

OK great opportunity for the role players to step up.. no reason to hold back anything and give 100% effort.. plenty of time to rest afterward. please compete and make us proud..

[Biggems]

What a dumb move. He can run them down into the ground tonight, theres nearly a week till their next game.

pop knows the players better than you. also, the main guys have played an extra season or two cause of all their playoff success. all those extra and intense games take a toll on the body.

[HarlemHeat37]

we AREN'T going to catch the Lakers..people need to get off this idea..they're 5 games up on us..they are still an elite team without Bynum..there's no reason to think we'll catch them..everybody should have known that we weren't going to get the #1 seed, right after Manu and Parker got injured..I'm actually kind of surprised that we're 2nd after those injuries..

[mystargtr34]

A positive side effect of this decision is that Hill and Mason can get a lot of run ... and they need it. They need to find their groove and you can't really do that without minutes and touches.

Plus it gives the Spurs a good look at Hairston, if they so choose.

I guess when you factor everything in, i can see the basis for his decision. I still dont agree with it. A win tonight, as tough as it would have been would have given us a cushion from the chasing pack. We lose tonight, Denver and Portland are both within 1.5 games, heading into 7 more on the road.

[MI21]

Hill
Mason
Finley
Bonner
Thomas

for starting lineup? Unless the Spurs think they can get away with Finley on Kenyon (which they can't) to allow 2 bigs off of the bench. This could get ugly quickly.

[Flux451]

nice, i am looking forward to watching Malik, Hill and Mason!!!

any guesses on starting line up?

[2Cleva]

These old men can't handle a back-to-back before AS break yet they will last the 2nd half of the season and be ready deep in the playoffs?

And waving the white flag on a conference game because one of the lowest teams in the conference took too much out of them. Especially when this game could easily cost them in seedings with any tiebreakers with Denver.

And what's the difference between 4 days off and 5 days off? Is that really going to make a difference vs Boston on Sunday?

Bad sign.

[HarlemHeat37]

standings are meaningless to us though..sure, it would be nice, but Pop has been experimenting all season long..we clearly show a different effort vs. good teams, compared to the lesser teams we've faced..this team simply could care less about the regular season, and it starts with the coach..

I'm interested in seeing Hill, Mason, Oberto, Udoka, and Hairston tonight..

[z0sa]

Pop's will be done, but this is fucking bullshit. I am very disappointed in all honesty.

[td4mvp21]

I guess I'm the only one not ok with losing 2 straight?

[angel_luv]

I am glad the guys get to rest. But what a bummer for any Spurs fan who bought tickets to see the game in person.

[mystargtr34]

pop knows the players better than you. also, the main guys have played an extra season or two cause of all their playoff success. all those extra and intense games take a toll on the body.

Lol, ok. I know them well enough to know anytime Duncan, Manu and Parker are on a basketball court, they have a good chance to win regardless of the opposition and circumstances.

I could see the point in doing it on a normal b2b @ Denver after an OT game. The Big 3 now get what, 6 days rest instead of 5? Do you think that makes that much of a difference in the long run?

[Shastafarian]

These old men can't handle a back-to-back before AS break yet they will last the 2nd half of the season and be ready deep in the playoffs?

And waving the white flag on a conference game because one of the lowest teams in the conference took too much out of them. Especially when this game could easily cost them in seedings with any tiebreakers with Denver.

And what's the difference between 4 days off and 5 days off? Is that really going to make a difference vs Boston on Sunday?

Bad sign.

Whatever helps you sleep at night. Needing 60 points out of Kobe and barely beating the Knicks seems like a good sign I guess.

[Quiet Strength]

I'm not saying the spurs will win but seriously.. its possible. I believe they could still get a win tonight. :flag:

[Flux451]

I guess when you factor everything in, i can see the basis for his decision. I still dont agree with it. A win tonight, as tough as it would have been would have given us a cushion from the chasing pack. We lose tonight, Denver and Portland are both within 1.5 games, heading into 7 more on the road.


This sets us apart from the rest. We are elite if we lose and still stay ahead for the rest of the season.

If you have ever played on a b-ball team in a tournament where games are close to each other, you would realize that its easy to get hurt when you are pushed past the body's limit. It's a good idea to rest them, they are more susceptible to injure if not...now we wouldn't want that would we?

[tp2021]

I'm not saying the spurs will win but seriously.. its possible. I believe they could still get a win tonight. :flag:

That would be hilarious.

I have been to 2 Spurs games against the Nugs, and both times Tim AND Manu were out IIRC...I would be PISSED if I went to this one.

[Creation88]

i fucking love how much of a hardass Pop is. i always look forward to his interviews with Sager. they're hilarious.

[Flux451]

I am glad the guys get to rest. But what a bummer for any Spurs fan who bought tickets to see the game in person.

Amen!! i live in Albuquerque, and would of gone if it wasn't for a little one on the way!! I would have cursed the gods!

[TheDarkSide.]

These old men can't handle a back-to-back before AS break yet they will last the 2nd half of the season and be ready deep in the playoffs?

And waving the white flag on a conference game because one of the lowest teams in the conference took too much out of them. Especially when this game could easily cost them in seedings with any tiebreakers with Denver.

And what's the difference between 4 days off and 5 days off? Is that really going to make a difference vs Boston on Sunday?

Bad sign.

just say you're scared.

:flag:

[Joe Schmoogins]

The only thing that disappoints me about this decision is that I have both Manu and Tim on my fantasy team...

[Creation88]

FYI i hope this is a joke.

[HarlemHeat37]

Pop is by far the best coach in the NBA, there's nobody on his level..there's no other coach in the NBA that would even think about doing this..not only does this help us avoid injuries, but he's playing mind games with the rest of the NBA..

[angelbelow]

you never know, with our big 3 sitting coach karls game plan could be in such chaos they just surrender.

[alchemist]

What kind of weak bullshit is this?

[doldrums]

and to think, this is the 1st time fans voted on tuesday for NBA TV to show a game not featuring the Cavs or Lakers. And what do they get for their vote. No big 3.

[tp2021]

and to think, this is the 1st time fans voted on tuesday for NBA TV to show a game not featuring the Cavs or Lakers. And what do they get for their vote. No big 3.

HA! That'll teach them to vote for the Spurs!

[urunobili]

GR8 desicion right there... lots of time to develop Hill and Hairston... Pop should take the night off himself and let coach Bud take over!

[Ditty]

there playing lol

[mystargtr34]

This sets us apart from the rest. We are elite if we lose and still stay ahead for the rest of the season.

If you have ever played on a b-ball team in a tournament where games are close to each other, you would realize that its easy to get hurt when you are pushed past the body's limit. It's a good idea to rest them, they are more susceptible to injure if not...now we wouldn't want that would we?

Players log nearly 3000 minutes a season. 99% of basketball injuries are incidental, or freak injuries.

Rolled ankles, sprained knees, or dislocated shoulders. Professional athletes dont break down because they played an extra OT period the night before.

[HarlemHeat37]

LOL..knowing Pop, he's probably only doing this because the fans voted us in..we're the "boring" team, remember?..

[InK]

What kind of a joke is this?

[Kori Ellis]

I think this move is a psychological one as well as a physical one.

[Bandwagon Spurs Fan]

http://blastmagazine.com/images/media/GreggPopovichMain.jpg

Popovich: SMB.

[FreeMason]

Mason's got this shit handled.

No biggie.

[Galileo]

Big Three a Big Zero tonight (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2009/02/big-three-a-big.html)
By Jeff McDonald

No Tim Duncan. No Tony Parker. No Manu Ginobili. That's all that will be missing from the Spurs' lineup tonight at Denver.

A night after the Spurs expended so much energy to get past Golden State in overtime, coach Gregg Popovich just informed the gathered media that he plans to rest each and every member of his Big Three.

The decision on Ginobili comes with a bit of an injury concern. He suffered a left hip contusion taking a fall against the Warriors. With three days off after tonight, Popovich felt it was best to give him the night off.

As for Duncan and Parker, the Spurs' top two scorers? They're just getting the night off "for a variety of reasons," Popovich said.

"Parker makes the All-Star team, becomes hard to deal with, so we're going to sit him and teach him a lesson," Popovich joked. "Duncan says he wants to renegotiate his contract, so I said, 'Sit, I'm not talking to you.' "

Though Popovich wouldn't say so, it's worth wondering if this new and not-so-improved rotation is meant to send a message to the league scheduling wizards, who sent the Spurs to Denver by way of Oakland.

After Monday's overtime win, the Spurs did not lay their heads on their pillows in Denver until close to 4 a.m. Ragged and facing an uphill battle against the Nuggets anyway, Popovich has apparently opted to steal an extra day of rest for his most important players.

yet more evidence that Pop reads Spurstalk.

[completely deck]

This is the stupidest shit I've ever heard. They have a week until the next game. This is ridiculous.

[Josepatches_]

Pop is by far the best coach in the NBA, there's nobody on his level..there's no other coach in the NBA that would even think about doing this..not only does this help us avoid injuries, but he's playing mind games with the rest of the NBA..

Pop without TD = Fired long time ago.Who was him before Duncan? And he had 47 .

[Ditty]

unless they play like the hornets

unless george hill plays like chris paul

unless roger mason hit 3 pointers like peja stockavic

unless matt bonner hits outside shots like david west

and kurt thomas is defensive presence like tyson chandeler

then we have no chance

[exstatic]

[B]Though Popovich wouldn't say so, it's worth wondering if this new and not-so-improved rotation is meant to send a message to the league scheduling wizards, who sent the Spurs to Denver by way of Oakland.

Bravo. It was pretty fucked up that even on a B2B, there were only 22.5 hours between tip offs. When you factor in the OT, there were less than 20 hours (and a trip) between the end of the GS game and tip off for this one. Having tired players leads to injuries.

[Spurs1234]

when was the last time atleast one of the big three was not out there...i guess if duncan missed a game in the 2000-2001 season, that would be it.

[SpursFan0728]

feel so sorry for NBA TV
suppose to be a great game

[SPURS21]

Wow this isn't a joke. What a terrible move.

They are basketball players, they get paid to play basketball. If I have to work late, commute home and be up early for work the next day than that is what I do because it is my job. Duncan barely broke 40 minutes yesterday. Same with Parker.

This is one of the worst decisions coach Pop has ever made. Especially when we will likely be battling the Nuggets for playoff positioning and this game likely could cost us the tie breaker. :bang:bang:bang

FYI NBATV is reporting TP/TD will play just aren't starting

[DPG21920]

As a fan, this is the gayest move of all time. As a team, probably smart. But it does shaft the fans over.

[ManuTim_best of Fwiendz]

As a fan, this sucks!

It's just basketball. Let us enjoy the game, live a littleee!!!!

It's taking things a little too seriously for my tastes. This is bullshit!

We get it, the regular season is pre-season....I'm already tired of him waving the white flag in regular season games, but he is reaching new levels, with that mentality.

[DynastyBuilder]

no Finley either... wow. This is a surprise.

[FreeMason]

Everyone calm the fuck down.

I GOT THIS.

[Andy25]

I told you guys Pop is a spurstalk troll.... I agree with his decision today and it will help a lot in building the confidence of these guys.. but I wish he didn't kill my stats for my fantasy team this week by doing so.. :(

[wijayas]

Is Pop a genius or what? I like the move!

[Jayem]

pop knows the refs handed us the win last night so he decided to tank this game

[superbigtime]

As a fan I don't like this at all. How are we supposed to come together on the RRT when 3 starters and Manu are sitting? I would be pissed if I was in Denver and bought tickets for this game! We shouldn't throw a game because our players have some "bumps and bruises." Wins are too important. By losing to Denever tonight, Spurs will have lost the season series 1-2 and that has obvious implications.

[SpursFan0728]

lol oberto penetrating

[ECZ]

Bold move.

But this should be a good test for the bench

[DPG21920]

Question? Why not rest the guys against an inferior team in the Warriors and play the real team tonight? Why help Denver who is right behind us? Wouldn't the bench stand a better chance against the Warriors to steal a win than the Nuggets?

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

pop knows the refs handed us the win last night so he decided to tank this game

Good thinking, gayem.

[ManuTastic]

These old men can't handle a back-to-back before AS break yet they will last the 2nd half of the season and be ready deep in the playoffs?

And waving the white flag on a conference game because one of the lowest teams in the conference took too much out of them. Especially when this game could easily cost them in seedings with any tiebreakers with Denver.

And what's the difference between 4 days off and 5 days off? Is that really going to make a difference vs Boston on Sunday?

Bad sign.

I agree completely. They don't play again until SUNDAY. F this.

The only reason I might agree with is that he's protesting the crappy scheduling. And don't forget this is NBA tv fan night; wonder if people would have voted for this game if they knew our big 3 would be sitting out!

[ploto]

I think this move is a psychological one as well as a physical one.

I think it is almost entirely psychological, and that disappoints me. Providing an excuse for the loss in advance.

I am so sick of these writers acting as if the Spurs are the only team with schedules like this. They all have to do it.

I have a friend who operates for 12 hours and is up at 5:00 AM the next morning to round and operate again, but these guys can not play basketball?

[Amuseddaysleeper]

I think it is almost entirely psychological, and that disappoints me. Providing an excuse for the loss in advance.

I am so sick of these writers acting as if the Spurs are the only team with schedules like this. They all have to do it.

Sadly, I do agree with this.

Kinda like the Orlando game was coached with the "L" already on the team's minds

[MarHill]

I think it is almost entirely psychological, and that disappoints me. Providing an excuse for the loss in advance.

I am so sick of these writers acting as if the Spurs are the only team with schedules like this. They all have to do it.

Obviously, Pop knows what's best for his team. I would agree I was surprised by the decision. But, if it helps them in long run...then some short-term pain is sometimes needed.

[ducks]

I think it sends a message to the lakers, boston and the rest of the nba
pop does not care about homecourt
he likes their chances against them anyhow

[GSH]

I guess you either love the decision or you hate it. I think it's a great move, on a number of levels. I'm sure he's making a statement. But also playing those guys to the point of exhaustion is a set-up for an injury. And nobody ever won a championship during the regular season.

This isn't the first time Pop has done something like this. A few years ago, the Spurs were banged up going into a game in Phoenix. Rather than let the Suns "prove" themselves against a depleted Spurs squad, he sat a couple of our starters and let them play our bench. If I remember right, Manu scored like 42 or 44 that night and the Spurs nearly pulled out a win.

[Duncan2177]

Damn are we that fragile? You dont see the lakers or celtics doing that, Thats lame.

[ducks]

I think it is almost entirely psychological, and that disappoints me. Providing an excuse for the loss in advance.

I am so sick of these writers acting as if the Spurs are the only team with schedules like this. They all have to do it.

I have a friend who operates for 12 hours and is up at 5:00 AM the next morning to round and operate again, but these guys can not play basketball?

manu should have been benched for sure because tired players get hurt

suns bench shaq on back to back games

[ducks]

Damn are we that fragile? You dont see the lakers or celtics doing that, Thats lame.

suns bench shaq on back to back games

[ploto]

Obviously, Pop knows what's best for his team. I would agree I was surprised by the decision. But, if it helps them in long run...then some short-term pain is sometimes needed.

But it is the fans- whether in person or who watch on TV- who pay the salaries. If you are hurt- then it makes sense. But to rest that many players because they played an OT game last night is ridiculous.

[Duncan2177]

I'm not saying the spurs will win but seriously.. its possible. I believe they could still get a win tonight. :flag:

Are you kidding?

[ducks]

But it is the fans- whether in person or who watch on TV- who pay the salaries. If you are hurt- then it makes sense. But to rest that many players because they played an OT game last night is ridiculous.

have you ran in denver, co
have you played basketball in DENVER MILE HIGH CITY< CO
ON LESS THEN 6 hours of sleep

[m33p0]

in fucking denver after a sprint fest with the warriors? this game is lost before it started. give it a rest.

[MarHill]

But it is the fans- whether in person or who watch on TV- who pay the salaries. If you are hurt- then it makes sense. But to rest that many players because they played an OT game last night is ridiculous.

One game......

I can understand the fans frustration. But a coach knows his team and if he felt they needed a game off...then they do.

Pop is looking at the big picture and this was the game to do it.

Its not like he's going to rest them every back-to-back!

[ploto]

They did not get less than 6 hours of sleep. They had ALL DAY to sleep.

[MarHill]

But it is the fans- whether in person or who watch on TV- who pay the salaries. If you are hurt- then it makes sense. But to rest that many players because they played an OT game last night is ridiculous.

Also, stop with the fans paying the player's salaries. The TV contracts are a big reason for the players' salaries as well.

:flag:

[z0sa]

One thing this proves to me is that Pop does not care about the first seed.

[DPG21920]

I can see why people are upset, how can you not? It kind of violates the spirit of the game, but hey, we are the Spurs and you just live with it.

[ploto]

Also, stop with the fans paying the player's salaries. The TV contracts are a big reason for the players' salaries as well.

:flag:
Do you even read the posts you quote?

[Duncan2177]

suns bench shaq on back to back games

Last i checked Tim and Tony are not 37 years old. LOL And they have 4 days off coming up geez how much rest do they need?

[MarHill]

They did not get less than 6 hours of sleep. They had ALL DAY to sleep.

So what!!

The decision has been made!

There will be decisions in life we don't like. You will live it and move on!!

[braeden0613]

have you ran in denver, co
have you played basketball in DENVER MILE HIGH CITY< CO
ON LESS THEN 6 hours of sleep
Don't the players actually get to sleep late into the afternoon on back to back games?

[ducks]

They did not get less than 6 hours of sleep. They had ALL DAY to sleep.
no they had to play ball and warm up watch film
just ask you

[MarHill]

Do you even read the posts you quote?

Yes I do....

But you're complaining about something that's happened.

It's only one game......

[FreeMason]

Just think of this as the NO ORL back to back that happened a month ago.

[ducks]

Don't the players actually get to sleep late into the afternoon on back to back games?

if they could sleep
not as easy to do during the day as night

[ducks]

I think back to back games causes more injuries then anything

[GSH]

I guess you either love the decision or you hate it. I think it's a great move, on a number of levels. I'm sure he's making a statement. But also playing those guys to the point of exhaustion is a set-up for an injury. And nobody ever won a championship during the regular season.

This isn't the first time Pop has done something like this. A few years ago, the Spurs were banged up going into a game in Phoenix. Rather than let the Suns "prove" themselves against a depleted Spurs squad, he sat a couple of our starters and let them play our bench. If I remember right, Manu scored like 42 or 44 that night and the Spurs nearly pulled out a win.

Wouldn't Karl look like an asshole if Billups or Melo were injured tonight, playing against the Spurs' bench?

BTW - I think this also says that Pop feels confident that the Spurs can hang on to the 2 seed in the West, as long as they stay healthy. If the Spurs come up 1 game short of the Lakers for the #1 seed, then maybe you can look back and say this might not have been such a good idea. But any other outcome, and it would be hard to say this was a bad thing.

[Duncan2177]

One thing this proves to me is that Pop does not care about the first seed.

If thats how Pop feels then hes a idiot you always want to fight to be the first seed gives you home court advantage in the playoffs, It can be your friend you know?

[ploto]

no they had to play ball and warm up watch film
The Spurs do not make the players get up and have a team breakfast or a shoot around after last night. They slept late and probably had a nap, as well.

[tlongII]

It's bullshit. You at least need to make the Nuggets work.

[m33p0]

If thats how Pop feels then hes a idiot you always want to fight to be the first seed gives you home court advantage in the playoffs? It can be your friend you know?
mavericks can tell you all about their wonderful 2007 championship run and how they fought for homecourt advantage all season long and how that helped them all through out the playoffs.

spurs can also tell you all about their championship runs in 2000, 2006 and 2008 and how health was the most important factor in securing those titles.

[MarHill]

Wouldn't Karl look like an asshole if Billups or Melo were injured tonight, playing against the Spurs' bench?

BTW - I think this also says that Pop feels confident that the Spurs can hang on to the 2 seed in the West, as long as they stay healthy. If the Spurs come up 1 game short of the Lakers for the #1 seed, then maybe you can look back and say this might not have been such a good idea. But any other outcome, and it would be hard to say this was a bad thing.

I believe Pop would have rather a healthy team...than the #1 seed.

Remember, Manu played on a busted ankle in the Phoenix & New Orleans' series. That affected him against the Lakers.

If giving up one game in early Feb can insure a healthy team for the playoffs he will take that everytime!

[m33p0]

It's bullshit. You at least need to make the Nuggets work.
we leave that to you, guys. they are your problems, not ours. :lol

[ColoradoSpursFan]

Masons handle is bad - last couple games he has butterfingered numerous passes or dribble attempts -

Has anyone else noticed this occurance?

[ducks]

Parker got injured right after that double overtime game against the (Grizzlies?). It would really suck to play our exhausted players only to lose and see one or more of them injured. Sit them, tell the league they need better schedule makers or the game suffers (one way or another). Seriously, a late game vs. Golden State followed immediately by a game in the mile-high city, even though we have multiple 4 and 5 day breaks coming up? Screw the league, get real.

[ducks]

Masons handle is bad - last couple games he has butterfingered numerous passes or dribble attempts -

Has anyone else noticed this occurance?

yeah but he also is playing with palyers he is not used tonight

[bdictjames]

There goes my fantasy team for the day. :[

[LaMarcus Bryant]

Interesting reaction from timvp and all the timvp adorers. Because if we follow this logic to the natural extreme, then Ghost Writer was right and we should tank the season . . .

[superbigtime]

This is fucking bullshit. What are they rickety old men? Kurt Thomas is playing for crying out loud.

Also, I disagree with this saying that tired players get hurt. Cold players get hurt. Alot of injuries occur early in the game. And most injuries have a mechanism from someone falling on you (Bynum) or someone running into you or colliding awkwardly (Jameer Nelson) or just stepping on another guy's foot and wrenching your ankle. Has nothing to do with whether or not a player is sucking wind.

[Duncan2177]

This is fucking bullshit. What are they rickety old men? Kurt Thomas is playing for crying out loud.

Also, I disagree with this saying that tired players get hurt. Cold players get hurt. Alot of injuries occur early in the game. And most injuries have a mechanism from someone falling on you (Bynum) or someone running into you or colliding awkwardly (Jameer Nelson) or just stepping on another guy's foot and wrenching your ankle. Has nothing to do with whether or not a player is sucking wind.

Exactly

[Obstructed_View]

This is basically a mea culpa by Pop for fucking around with the lineups and making the Spurs have to play too hard too long to win a game they should have won in regulation but could have lost. There's certainly no harm in throwing the rest of those guys in the deep end and seeing if they can produce.

[superbigtime]

Why isn't Mason hitting his shots? He never will have less pressure than TONIGHT.

[tlongII]

The NBA should fine and suspend Popavich for this.

[SenorSpur]

This is either a boneheaded move or a genius move by Pop. A move that only Pop could get away with, as a coach.

On one hand, I understand the fact that the Spurs had an overtime game in Oakland and then had to get to Denver for the 2nd of a B2B. The starters were probably exhausted.

On the other hand, these guys do get paid to play and all teams have B2Bs. Therefore, I don't like the B2B trump card being tossed around as an excuse. Even though the chance of the Spurs winning this road game in Denver, with the high altitude, were slim, you never know. After all, this is a conference game and these games can impact playoff seedings.

Furthermore, if the Spurs didn't have 4 days rest before they resume the RRT in Boston on Sunday, it would be easier to justify Pop's decision. All of which makes his decision to rest these guys a bit suspect.

All that said, I'm not going to sweat it too much. I'll just chalk it up and watch the reserves tonight. It should be fun to watch. I am anxious to see what kind of game Hairston has. I keep wishing Ian was healthy enough for a game like this.

[ManuTim_best of Fwiendz]

Pop is not a deity. Although it's not that big a deal in the long run, I don't understand the groupthink attitude that we can't question him. This is an overboard conservative decision withholding not just one, but all of them?

Manu taking a blow, that's understandable (but Manu has contusions every year so i don't even buy that he couldn't been out there today )

Old school basketball fans enjoyed the regular season games, etc. The Jordan Bulls and the Magics, the Larry Bird Celtics would rather put on a show than micromanage for the sake of some obscure and remote unpredictable scenario three months from now.

Just get over the X's and O's, opportune moments to test the scrubs and let the players play!
I thought Championship teams have survived noobies being integrated in their bench before without having to give 48 minutes away to them at the expense of a win.

This decision and the three, four times Pop has waived the white flag on national television justifies the boring labels. To think that we might have beene deprived of some potential "come back" moments that fans talk about, and remember because Pop would rather throw away the game to send a message to his veterans, rather then let his players just go out there and try to have fun.

[MarHill]

The NBA should fine and suspend Popavich for this.

For what?

That makes no sense

[ducks]

HOW MANY OTHER TEAMS HAVE BACK TO BACKS WITH THE SECOND ONE IN DENVER ON LESS THEN 20 hours from finishing the first game
then having to travel there

[ducks]

The NBA should fine and suspend Popavich for this.

can not happen
suns do this with shaq all the time

[HarlemHeat37]

so many wet vaginas on this board..stop being so annoying, it's one fucking game..

[Kori Ellis]

Manu got banged up last night (hip and something else). He probably wouldn't have played tonight even if Tony/Tim/Finley did.

[Kori Ellis]

so many wet vaginas on this board..stop being so annoying, it's one fucking game..

You find wet vaginas annoying?

Interesting. :downspin:

[Obstructed_View]

Looking at the shot chart, it looks like the Spurs haven't hit a single shot inside fifteen feet.

And why are they bothering to take time outs? Shouldn't they just get the game over with? There wasn't any actual thought of winning was there?

[superbigtime]

This decision and the three, four times Pop has waived the white flag on national television justifies the boring labels. To think that we might have beene deprived of some potential "come back" moments that fans talk about, and remember because Pop would rather throw away the game to send a message to his veterans, rather then let his players just go out there and try to have fun.

I so agree. It's disappointing and makes the team look weak. I hate throwing in towel early. This game was doomed before it started. Puts the team into a psychological funk, IMO. This is not a genius move and I can't be persuaded otherwise.

I don't understand why the Spurs aren't hitting more of these open shots.

[ducks]

maybe the other players will appreciate the big three creating more space for the other role players to shoot

[Rapper]

so Timmy can visit China during this week:lol

[superbigtime]

so many wet vaginas on this board..stop being so annoying, it's one fucking game..

Man if throwing a game doesn't warrant some bitching, I don't know what does.

[tlongII]

It is every NBA team's duty to play their best players if they are physically able. Willfully putting an inferior product out on the floor is not fair to the fans and is an affront to league rules. Teams can be fined for doing this same thing at the end of a season when willfully tanking.

[ducks]

It is every NBA team's duty to play their best players if they are physically able. Willfully putting an inferior product out on the floor is not fair to the fans and is an affront to league rules. Teams can be fined for doing this same thing at the end of a season when willfully tanking.

so why has the league not fined suns this season over benching shaq

[DrHouse]

I don't know why the Spurs would throw a game against DEN, who is nipping at their heels for that #2 spot. That's just pure stupidity IMHO.

It's one thing to not wear yourself out to get the #1 seed, but you also don't want to drop too far down and end up having to play tougher opponents in the 1st/2nd rounds.

[ducks]

spurs could always make up injuries to duncan and tp and said that is why they did not play

[MarHill]

It is every NBA team's duty to play their best players if they are physically able. Willfully putting an inferior product out on the floor is not fair to the fans and is an affront to league rules. Teams can be fined for doing this same thing at the end of a season when willfully tanking.


The coach has right a do what is best for their team.

The NBA will live if one game if a team doesn't play their best players. The Spurs have already come to Denver (and won) with the Big 3 earlier this season.

If people can't handle one game like this...tough!!

[Obstructed_View]

It is every NBA team's duty to play their best players if they are physically able. Willfully putting an inferior product out on the floor is not fair to the fans and is an affront to league rules. Teams can be fined for doing this same thing at the end of a season when willfully tanking.

I don't think a fan of the Blazers should be lecturing anyone else about affronts to league rules.

[MarHill]

I don't know why the Spurs would throw a game against DEN, who is nipping at their heels for that #2 spot. That's just pure stupidity IMHO.

It's one thing to not wear yourself out to get the #1 seed, but you also don't want to drop too far down and end up having to play tougher opponents in the 1st/2nd rounds.

I don't think they will drop too far and they will still get a top #4 seed.

I believe everybody is making too big a deal out of this.

[tlongII]

A number of years ago when Shaq was still with Lakers I seem to remember them sitting Shaq and Kobe near the end of the season without notifying the league beforehand. I believe they received a substantial fine. This is worse imo.

[MarHill]

A number of years ago when Shaq was still with Lakers I seem to remember them sitting Shaq and Kobe near the end of the season without notifying the league beforehand. I believe they received a substantial fine. This is worse imo.

near the end of the season......it's only early Feb

and even if the Spurs got a fine.....they will be glad to pay it.

especially if their big 3 are fully healthy for the playoffs.

I'm sorry you seem so outraged by this!!!

[Rapper]

Bonner, Hill, Mason

don't give up, Maybe we can win tonight

[afireinside20]

I think it's a good move by Pop. Seeing that the Big Three do need some more rest for the tougher parts of the road trip, especially since the Spurs won't play again til Sunday at Boston. This would give them some much needed rest for that game.

[m33p0]

I don't think a fan of the Blazers should be lecturing anyone else about affronts to league rules.
oooooooooohhh!... you tell 'em OV.

[SenorSpur]

A number of years ago when Shaq was still with Lakers I seem to remember them sitting Shaq and Kobe near the end of the season without notifying the league beforehand. I believe they received a substantial fine. This is worse imo.

Pop dares the league office to question one of his coaching decisions.

[m33p0]

it's only an 8 point game. they MIGHT want to win this one and play.

[tlongII]

After the Donaghy scandal I don't see HOW the league can put up with this crap!

[DrHouse]

It's not even the ASB though, I've never seen a team rest their players this early in the season.

[MarHill]

It's not even the ASB though, I've never seen a team rest their players this early in the season.

Well, Popovich is different!

If this game helps in the long run....so be it!!

[ginobili's bald spot]

I've never been impressed with the Nuggets.

[Obstructed_View]

oooooooooohhh!... you tell 'em OV.

:ihit :ihit

:lol

[DPG21920]

It is Pop's choice, his team. Fans may not like it, but it is not up to us.

[DrHouse]

Well, Popovich is different!

If this game helps in the long run....so be it!!

You're too much of a fan to see the writing on the wall. This isn't a good sign.

[ducks]

After the Donaghy scandal I don't see HOW the league can put up with this crap!

spurs are within 4 points in the 4 quarter

stern likes close games

[Obstructed_View]

Stern doesn't mind bad ratings for the Spurs; it gives him an excuse not to showcase them.

[MarHill]

You're too much of a fan to see the writing on the wall. This isn't a good sign.


That's a silly statement!

DrHouse, I've enjoyed debating you but c'mon now!

I've been objective about the Spurs.

If Pop felt he needed to give the big 3 a night off...then so be it!!

Plus, they have a four game lead in their division and still have a top #4 seed.

[tlongII]

spurs are within 4 points in the 4 quarter

stern likes close games

Down 11 now. They could have won this game by putting in Duncan and Parker. Complete bullshit.

[ducks]

actually they got within 3

[21_Blessings]

The Spurs have no more heart, including their spineless, defeatist of a coach.

Yup that's right, you weren't catching the lakers even without Bynum. Might as well throw in the towell and send the conference gift wrapped to the Lakers because you didn't want it anyways. Sad, just pathetic.

[DrHouse]

That's a silly statement!

DrHouse, I've enjoyed debating you but c'mon now!

I've been objective about the Spurs.

If Pop felt he needed to give the big 3 a night off...then so be it!!

Plus, they have a four game lead in their division and still have a top #4 seed.

It's not like they are playing any games in the next couple of days though.

And they are playing a team that is right now only 2-3 games behind them for the #2 spot. It just doesn't make any sense to throw this game.

[MarHill]

The Spurs have no more heart, including their spineless, defeatist of a coach.

Yup that's right, you weren't catching the lakers even without Bynum. Might as well throw in the towell and send the conference gift wrapped to the Lakers because you didn't want it anyways. Sad, just pathetic.

Yep...33-14 on the season after starting 1-4

3 titles in the last six years....

the most winningest franchise in the last 10 years

oh sure.....he's a defeatist

whatever!!

[703 Spurz]

Wow this isn't a joke. What a terrible move.

They are basketball players, they get paid to play basketball. If I have to work late, commute home and be up early for work the next day than that is what I do because it is my job. Duncan barely broke 40 minutes yesterday. Same with Parker.

This is one of the worst decisions coach Pop has ever made. Especially when we will likely be battling the Nuggets for playoff positioning and this game likely could cost us the tie breaker. :bang:bang:bang

FYI NBATV is reporting TP/TD will play just aren't starting

You're comparing working where, a grocery store, office, mall, gym to professional basketball?

LOL

[jag]

Down 11 now. They could have won this game by putting in Duncan and Parker. Complete bullshit.

What are you bitching about? Why do you care if Spurs players rest a game?

[DrHouse]

Yep...33-14 on the season after starting 1-4

3 titles in the last six years....

the most winningest franchise in the last 10 years

oh sure.....he's a defeatist

whatever!!

Ignore him.

[m33p0]

The Spurs have no more heart, including their spineless, defeatist of a coach.

Yup that's right, you weren't catching the lakers even without Bynum. Might as well throw in the towell and send the conference gift wrapped to the Lakers because you didn't want it anyways. Sad, just pathetic.
this makes it very easy to be glad about bynum's knee.

[MarHill]

It's not like they are playing any games in the next couple of days though.

And they are playing a team that is right now only 2-3 games behind them for the #2 spot. It just doesn't make any sense to throw this game.

DrHouse,

Obviously, Popovich has his reasons.

Again, as a fan I can see why people would be upset.

But he has been able to manage his team unlike most coaches in this league.

His success has proven that!

And I understand that Manu was injured a bit last night as well.

[itzsoweezee]

hairston is playing great

[Obstructed_View]

this makes it very easy to be glad about bynum's knee.

:lol

[ducks]

within 6 under 3 minutes

[MarHill]

This game says a lot about Denver. The fact the Spurs are still in this game with less than three minutes left.....yikes!!!

[21_Blessings]

this makes it very easy to be glad about bynum's knee.

Oh no, schadenfreude. I never expected that from a conference rival!

[m33p0]

Oh no, schadenfreude. I never expected that from a conference rival!
surely, you did not!

[jag]

I find it so ridiculous that fans of opposing teams even care about this. I could give a shit if Kobe sat out a game.

[fotan2]

"everybady in this leagus is pro"-------------from NBA2K9

they are not playing too bad w/o the big 3

its only by 4 points now .

[DrHouse]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

[703 Spurz]

It is every NBA team's duty to play their best players if they are physically able. Willfully putting an inferior product out on the floor is not fair to the fans and is an affront to league rules. Teams can be fined for doing this same thing at the end of a season when willfully tanking.

So basically you're only here to talk shit and not be a subjective poster that can have a rational chat with the rest of us here?

[Duncan2177]

Damn some of you spurs fans are to nice about Pop not playing the big 3.

[itzsoweezee]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.


no one gives a shit what you think.

[Trainwreck2100]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

I guess the Spurs don't give a fuck about the regular season

[MarHill]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

Again, I believe is concerned more about health...than anything else.

He knows this team can go on anyone's court and win or two a game in a series.

Also, this game said more about Denver. The Nuggets should have blown the Spurs out of the water.....

[703 Spurz]

A number of years ago when Shaq was still with Lakers I seem to remember them sitting Shaq and Kobe near the end of the season without notifying the league beforehand. I believe they received a substantial fine. This is worse imo.

This is worse huh? Because you're here to tell us it's worse. Huh. Why not when the Lakers sat Shaq and Kobe, as you said.

Ohhh that's right, that was in the past. You're the fuckstick who's here now to get on everyone's nerves.

[Yorae]

These old men can't handle a back-to-back before AS break yet they will last the 2nd half of the season and be ready deep in the playoffs?

And waving the white flag on a conference game because one of the lowest teams in the conference took too much out of them. Especially when this game could easily cost them in seedings with any tiebreakers with Denver.

And what's the difference between 4 days off and 5 days off? Is that really going to make a difference vs Boston on Sunday?

Bad sign.

The diff is to avoid injuries.

[BaumSquad]

I keep hearing "this says more about the Nuggets"
That is dumb, we dont say that about the Spurs when they play down to their competition. This says nothing about the Nuggets but a W in the win column.

[KenGee21]

The Spurs have no more heart, including their spineless, defeatist of a coach.

Yup that's right, you weren't catching the lakers even without Bynum. Might as well throw in the towell and send the conference gift wrapped to the Lakers because you didn't want it anyways. Sad, just pathetic.


what do you care? you aren't even a spurs fan

[703 Spurz]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

You do realize the Spurs have 34 more games to play. If they miss any number seed by one game, it would not just be because of this game. The rest of the regular season and how it ended would be the reason they didn't get XX number seed.

[Obstructed_View]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

Honestly, you know damn good and well that a banged up Spurs team is the only chance the Lakers have in the playoffs. As easy as it is for one to imagine your being baffled by something so simple, you really aren't clever enough to fake it.

[m33p0]

george hill was MIA. dammit.

[DPG21920]

Well lets see how we do vs Boston on Sunday. If we come out and lay an egg like we did in LA, I will be a little perplexed.

[Yorae]

Oh well great way for pop to send a message to the nba about their scheduling and fuck up NBA tv.

[GSH]

Honestly, you know damn good and well that a banged up Spurs team is the only chance the Lakers have in the playoffs. As easy as it is for one to imagine your being baffled by something so simple, you really aren't clever enough to fake it.


Don't discount the Lakers - they are a damn good team. It may be that a healthy Spurs team is the only chance the Spurs have in the playoffs. Either way, Pop limits minutes to try and keep guys fresh enough for the post-season.

I still like this move tonight. Those bench guys are going to be looking to extend leads, or to make up deficits. There may be a lot of screaming Spurs fans, but I bet there are no long faces in the locker room.

[Rapper]

Where is finley?

[underdawg]

I'm just baffled honestly. This was a game the Spurs could have won easily had Duncan and Parker suited up. Instead they threw it away. Just mind boggling, especially if the Spurs miss out on a top seed by 1-2 games like last season.

It's really not baffling at all - Pop knows his players and the minutes they play. He's a little bit better at this whole coaching thing than us internet forum folks. I'd rather get some minutes for our bench players and not risk injury to the 3 players that we cannot win in the post season without. Look at how many injuries have come down this week - your boy Drew, CP3, Jameer and even Billups in this game. I'm not saying that those injuries are due to fatigue, but Tony and Manu were injured earlier in the season and Timmy has been playing huge minutes the whole first half of the season (he's not a young man anymore.) We are not going to win a championship without a healthy Big 3 period.

[m33p0]

Don't discount the Lakers - they are a damn good team. It may be that a healthy Spurs team is the only chance the Spurs have in the playoffs. Either way, Pop limits minutes to try and keep guys fresh enough for the post-season.

I still like this move tonight. Those bench guys are going to be looking to extend leads, or to make up deficits. There may be a lot of screaming Spurs fans, but I bet there are no long faces in the locker room.
there's at least one. george hill. he knows he could have helped but laid an egg. :depressed

[vy65]

This decision was god awful.

Manu: given that he's injured (read: he has a bruise), sitting him is not that big of a deal.

Tim and Tony: if exhaustion is a concern, then limit their minutes. Pop surely is capable of playing these two for only a quarter (like Bruce) or giving them limited run. Botching this call is particularly acute when our scrubs get the game to within 4 with less than 3:00 to play in the game. I don't see how the "injuries" issue is relevant here where you can limit their minutes to avoid excessive wear and tear. Unless someone seriously wants to argue that playing 5 - 10 minutes excessively exposes these two to injury.

What did we lose? Not just a game that was imminently winnable. Not just a chance to keep pace with the Lakers. We handed the team breathing down our necks in the standings a game. Handed it to them. Given how tight the West was this year -- this decision seems both arrogant and short-sighted.

In the end, I just don't see why you can't have your cake and eat it too--limit Tim and Tony's minutes, but play them when we have a chance to the win the game. Now, we have to go into Boston to face a red-hot Celtics team and beat them on their own court. If not, we risk starting the RRT 1-2.

Just a negligent and arrogant decision . . .

[SpursFan0728]

I like tonight's moves because it shows that pop trust the bench during the final stretches of the game when they were down by 4. I think this is a big boost for our young guys. Also, Denver must be feeling bad because they merely beat the Spurs 2nd team at HOME.

Good move pop

[underdawg]

there's at least one. george hill. he knows he could have helped but laid an egg. :depressed

not a great performance given the opportunity, but how do you figure he laid an egg?

[manu_maniac]

This might be the craziest decision by a NBA coach in the past decade. Pop is a mad man.

With that said, if Hill & Udoka had more point production, we could have had this game. I think we could have defended 'Melo better as well. By defending him better, I meant that we should have fouled less. And turnovers. That's what really killed us.

[m33p0]

not a great performance given the opportunity, but how do you figure he laid an egg?
4-14 for 9pts
0-4 on 3pts
did have 3 assists but got negated by 3 turnovers
had 1 block shot and in return had 4 of his blocked
he was 100% on his free throws but he only went to the line once. (:lol)

[ManuTim_best of Fwiendz]

Just a negligent and arrogant decision . . .


I think moreso blind and unorthodox than arrogant.

It's not as bad as Avery Johnson's 'statement' game against the Warriors...still kind of annoying from a competitive aspect though.

Micromanaging to the point where it sucks the spirit out of the games. I hope Pop gets find, otherwise he's going to do this whenever he sees fit.

[boutons_]

rest? what's Wed, Thurs, Friday, Sat for?

Get an all-star-type break in Jan and Pop throws W away.

fuck it, it's Jan, who cares.

Don't wanna hear any Spur talking in Mar/Apr about playing to win a higher seed.

[underdawg]

4-14 for 9pts
0-4 on 3pts
did have 3 assists but got negated by 3 turnovers
had 1 block shot and in return had 4 of his blocked
he was 100% on his free throws but he only went to the line once. (:lol)

so, you're saying that is defense sucked too? or are you evaluating his performance on offence soley?

[Jayem]

This decision was god awful.

Manu: given that he's injured (read: he has a bruise), sitting him is not that big of a deal.

Tim and Tony: if exhaustion is a concern, then limit their minutes. Pop surely is capable of playing these two for only a quarter (like Bruce) or giving them limited run. Botching this call is particularly acute when our scrubs get the game to within 4 with less than 3:00 to play in the game. I don't see how the "injuries" issue is relevant here where you can limit their minutes to avoid excessive wear and tear. Unless someone seriously wants to argue that playing 5 - 10 minutes excessively exposes these two to injury.

What did we lose? Not just a game that was imminently winnable. Not just a chance to keep pace with the Lakers. We handed the team breathing down our necks in the standings a game. Handed it to them. Given how tight the West was this year -- this decision seems both arrogant and short-sighted.

In the end, I just don't see why you can't have your cake and eat it too--limit Tim and Tony's minutes, but play them when we have a chance to the win the game. Now, we have to go into Boston to face a red-hot Celtics team and beat them on their own court. If not, we risk starting the RRT 1-2.

Just a negligent and arrogant decision . . .:clap

its funny how people on this forum are actually supporting pops decision as if in any way it made sense. i swear the homers on this site are ridiculous... spurs/pop cant do anything wrong in their eyes. pop could've played the coyote instead of mason and the idiots here would still be calling pop a genius :lol

[DrHouse]

Honestly, you know damn good and well that a banged up Spurs team is the only chance the Lakers have in the playoffs. As easy as it is for one to imagine your being baffled by something so simple, you really aren't clever enough to fake it.

The Lakers already beat your team at full strength a few weeks ago quite handily. I'm pretty sure they aren't shaking in their boots.

[underdawg]

rest? what's Wed, Thurs, Friday, Sat for?

Get an all-star-type break in Jan and Pop throws W away.

fuck it, it's Jan, who cares.

Don't wanna hear any Spur talking in Mar/Apr about playing to win a higher seed.

I'm pretty sure Pop didn't forget about the 4 days off. Nobody talks about the fact that playing in Denver is always more taxing on opposing players due to the altitude. Answer me this - in your mind, you have no doubt that Timmy and Tony weren't gassed from previous games and didn't really need the rest?

[benefactor]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

[m33p0]

so, you're saying that is defense sucked too? or are you evaluating his performance on offence soley?
was there anything on my post that says something about his defense? but you have to agree, if he made more of his shots, the outcome could have been different.

[vy65]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

I don't think anyone who's taken issue with Pop's decision wants to lose. Saying that you want to win makes you a Spurs fan, ostensibly just like everyone else on this board.

And the point is not what Pop does or does not think. If you can't figure out that he doesn't care about the standings based on his decision to rest the Big 3, then you haven't been paying attention. The reason why some are upset about this decision is because the seeding does matter.

Just some food for thought: the Spurs have only won two playoff series the without HCA--both of which were against the Suns.

Look, Pop is a great coach ... most of the time. But his greatness shouldn't blind you to the fact that he's human and can make bad decisions. Tonight Pop showed he's just another guy.

[Manufan909]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

+1

I want more games with no Fin!!!! Or at leastmore Bruce.:downspin:

It sucked that Tim/Tony couldn't at least play 5 minutes in each half, but seeing Hairston almost negated that oversight. 6-8 is damn fine, too bad he missed all 3 FTs. But hey, he's avging .67 blocks!!!

[DPG21920]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

I agree with you for the most part, but how can you logically explain how this move will "certainly" increase the odds of a championship? How can you explain that it could have legitimately hurt their chances at another ring?

[Crookshanks]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

:clap :tu
Well said brother - Amen!

[benefactor]

I agree with you for the most part, but how can you logically explain how this move will "certainly" increase the odds of a championship? How can you explain that it could have legitimately hurt their chances at another ring?
I consider any move that both benefits the role players and allows your starters to rest and perhaps avoid injury to be a move that is focused on the season to come...which is the playoffs. It's nothing absolute, but it's a damn good idea on paper and it seemed to work out well as the role players played hard and competed right up to the end. Having them react in that way against a good team in a hostile environment develops them mentally for what is to come.

[ploto]

HOW MANY OTHER TEAMS HAVE BACK TO BACKS WITH THE SECOND ONE IN DENVER ON LESS THEN 20 hours from finishing the first game
then having to travel there

I checked 8 WC teams and this is what I found:

LA Lakers
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009 vs. Phoenix
Friday, Feb. 27, 2009 in Denver

Golden State
Friday, Dec. 12, 2008 vs. Houston
Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008 in Denver

Utah Jazz
Saturday, January 24, 2009 vs. Cleveland
Sunday, January 25, 2009 in Denver

New Orleans Hornets
Friday, January 2, 2009 at Portland
Saturday, January 3, 2009 at Denver

OKC Thunder
Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at Sacramento
Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at Denver

AND

Tuesday April 7, 2009 vs. Spurs
Wednesay, April 8, 2009 in Denver

[Manufan909]

Damn ploto, either you have no life, or ducks killed your dog.

[ManuTim_best of Fwiendz]

LOL all the spoiled ass Spurs fans on this thread.

Let me break it down for you...Pop does not care about ratings. Pop does not care about tiebreakers. Pop does not care about seeding. He cares about his players and about winning when it counts...which is the playoffs. We just played a fast-paced, overtime game and now we have to play against a good team on their court less than 24hrs later. Sitting our starters does two things...it allows them to get rest and it allows our role players that have not been playing well to log more minutes, which can help the ones that have been struggling re-establish some rhythm.

But all fans can do is whine about not getting to see the Big 3 or bring up weak arguments like seeding and tiebreakers. You know what I want as a fan? A championship...and this was a championship move from a championship coach.

I'm sorry but that's load of crap. It has nothing to do with not caring about "ratings" or any of that.
I guess that's the perils of internet fandom and being too familiar with teh players and coaches. All of a sudden they start stating cult like statements "we might not like it, but it is not our decision to make. In Pop we trust"

Unless Pop is omniscient and can see into the future, no one has any more right to say it's wrong to complain about the decision. No championships are guaranteed no matter how much you plan. Be conservative limit minutes, but just fucking play.

Some of you guys forgot what it's like to watch a random basketball game on a Sunday afternoon, people have a right to bitch on the principle of the matter.

I would hate for the league to adopt Pop's championship strategy back then in the NBC days, during triple headers, where half the championship caliber teams randomly sat their star players all for the sake of some remote unforeseen future, or obscure injury circumstance that may or may not happen.

[underdawg]

was there anything on my post that says something about his defense? but you have to agree, if he made more of his shots, the outcome could have been different.

I won't argue with that - he needs to more consistent on offense, but I've always thought that his worth to the Spurs was on defense. We face a lot of teams with dominating guards - NO, Utah, Dallas, Phoenix, Denver, etc. To me, his usefulness will be in defending those guards in certiain situations. Other than that, he needs to run the offense and not turn the ball over. If he becomes more consistent on offense (mainly finishing at the rim,) that is a bonus.

[DPG21920]

I consider any move that both benefits the role players and allows your starters to rest and perhaps avoid injury to be a move that is focused on the season to come...which is the playoffs. It's nothing absolute, but it's a damn good idea on paper and it seemed to work out well as the role players played hard and competed right up to the end. Having them react in that way against a good team in a hostile environment develops them mentally for what is to come.

But where is the proof that this helps you avoid serious injury? Has this happened a lot before on back to backs? Why is this one of the first times this strategy has been employed then? Why do it tonight, instead of yesterday?

[ploto]

Damn ploto, either you have no life, or ducks killed your dog.

Just proving that this whining about the schedule as if it only happens to the Spurs is weak and false. I am sick of reading it this year.

[benefactor]

I'm sorry but that's load of crap. It has nothing to do with not caring about "ratings" or any of that.
I guess that's the perils of internet fandom and being too familiar with teh players and coaches. All of a sudden they start stating cult like statements "we might not like it, but it is not our decision to make. In Pop we trust"

Unless Pop is omniscient and can see into the future, no one has any more right to say it's wrong to complain about the decision. No championships are guaranteed no matter how much you plan. Be conservative limit minutes, but just fucking play.

Some of you guys forgot what it's like to watch a random basketball game on a Sunday afternoon, people have a right to bitch on the principle of the matter.

I would hate for the league to adopt Pop's championship strategy back then in the NBC days, during triple headers, where half the championship caliber teams randomly sat their star players all for the sake of some remote unforeseen future, or obscure injury circumstance that may or may not happen.
Whatever...cry me a river.

[underdawg]

I'm sorry but that's load of crap. It has nothing to do with not caring about "ratings" or any of that.
I guess that's the perils of internet fandom and being too familiar with teh players and coaches. All of a sudden they start stating cult like statements "we might not like it, but it is not our decision to make. In Pop we trust"

Unless Pop is omniscient and can see into the future, no one has any more right to say it's wrong to complain about the decision. No championships are guaranteed no matter how much you plan. Be conservative limit minutes, but just fucking play.

Some of you guys forgot what it's like to watch a random basketball game on a Sunday afternoon, people have a right to bitch on the principle of the matter.

I would hate for the league to adopt Pop's championship strategy back then in the NBC days, during triple headers, where half the championship caliber teams randomly sat their star players all for the sake of some remote unforeseen future, or obscure injury circumstance that may or may not happen.

maybe so, but that's the thing about the pros vs. the college game - it's a business and the business is winning championships. Don't worry - Stern will do all he can to make sure that his NBA is entertaining (i.e. the Pasol trade and the Boston free agent/trades.) But honestly, if you need to be entertained you shouldn't root for the Spurs - they're all about the business of winning championships.

[benefactor]

But where is the proof that this helps you avoid serious injury? Has this happened a lot before on back to backs? Why is this one of the first times this strategy has been employed then? Why do it tonight, instead of yesterday?
I am not sure what you mean about yesterday...we had a day off before the GS game.

As far as the rest of what you said goes, I am thinking it is a combination of what happened against Orlando on short rest, Ginobili being banged up and TD and TP both playing 40+ minutes the night before. With Manu out your are going to need more out of two players that are already playing with half full tanks. No need in pushing Duncan and Parker when it is already unlikely we are going to win this game.

I think the combination of circumstances is what makes is more of a unique situation compared to other back to backs we have played.

[DPG21920]

I am not sure what you mean about yesterday...we had a day off before the GS game.

As far as the rest of what you said goes, I am thinking it is a combination of what happened against Orlando on short rest, Ginobili being banged up and TD and TP both playing 40+ minutes the night before. With Manu out your are going to need more out of two players that are already playing with half full tanks. No need in pushing Duncan and Parker when it is already unlikely we are going to win this game.

I think the combination of circumstances is what makes is more of a unique situation compared to other back to backs we have played.

By yesterday, I meant why not sit the big 3 out then? Give them 2 days rest before the Nuggets game then let them play that one?

[NRHector]

I checked 8 WC teams and this is what I found:

LA Lakers
Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009 vs. Phoenix
Friday, Feb. 27, 2009 in Denver

Golden State
Friday, Dec. 12, 2008 vs. Houston
Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008 in Denver

Utah Jazz
Saturday, January 24, 2009 vs. Cleveland
Sunday, January 25, 2009 in Denver

New Orleans Hornets
Friday, January 2, 2009 at Portland
Saturday, January 3, 2009 at Denver

OKC Thunder
Tuesday, March 10, 2009 at Sacramento
Wednesday, March 11, 2009 at Denver

AND

Tuesday April 7, 2009 vs. Spurs
Wednesay, April 8, 2009 in Denverbut you forgot on little thing, the time zones, it changes if you go from west to east so that gives you less time to rest

[timvp]

Interesting reaction from timvp because if we follow this logic to the natural extreme, then Ghost Writer was right and we should tank the season . . .

Hopefully you were sauced when you wrote that because that makes no sense.


Question? Why not rest the guys against an inferior team in the Warriors and play the real team tonight? Why help Denver who is right behind us? Wouldn't the bench stand a better chance against the Warriors to steal a win than the Nuggets?
Like I was talking about before the Warriors game, the only way to conquer that pair of games was to beat the Warriors handily and get some rest. At the very worst, you try to get out of that game playing regular minutes.

Didn't happen. I thought it was a very good move to concede the Nuggets game. The chances of winning were small and the chances of injury were elevated.

Even before the season started, that was a back-to-back that stood out as very odd. Conceding 1/82nd of the regular season wasn't that much of a tragedy.

[mexicanjunior]

This move was idiotic...There was no reason for Pop to just hand this game to one of the teams we are battling for the top 3 spots in the West. The people on this forum rationalizing this by saying seedings and standings mean nothing are delusional. The Spurs (as is) need HCA to get out of the West. Pop turned, what could have been a very good RRT, into quite possibly a huge letdown and scramble to break even if they can't pull off the game in Boston...

[DPG21920]

Hopefully you were sauced when you wrote that because that makes no sense.


Like I was talking about before the Warriors game, the only way to conquer that pair of games was to beat the Warriors handily and get some rest. At the very worst, you try to get out of that game playing regular minutes.

Didn't happen. I thought it was a very good move to concede the Nuggets game. The chances of winning were small and the chances of injury were elevated.

Even before the season started, that was a back-to-back that stood out as very odd. Conceding 1/82nd of the regular season wasn't that much of a tragedy.

I never said it was a tragedy. Couple of questions then. Do you think this was a plan before the Warriors game, if the guys did not win handily? Do you think the extra 5 minute overtime really played into the decision? Do you think it could have been determined no matter what before the Warriors game?

[HarlemHeat37]

wow..we aren't getting homecourt..

HCA was out of the question the minute we learned that Manu and Tony were going to be out for a month..we had absolutely no chance from the get go..just because the Lakers lost Bynum, it doesn't mean they're going to meltdown..they made the finals last year without him, how the hell would they lose an entire 5-game lead in the standings?..

getting 2nd, 3rd, or 4th is irrelevant..there's no difference between playing any of the teams from 3 to 9, they're all similar..the Lakers are on their own level in the West, and we're alone on the 2nd level IMO..

we're a proven team that doesn't need home court..

[mexicanjunior]

The chances of winning were small and the chances of injury were elevated.


I don't understand that logic at all, this was a very winnable game considering how poorly Denver played defense for stretches of this game and the Billups injury. Playing just Parker may have been enough to pull this game out. This game could easily bite the Spurs in the ass come playoff positioning time. We saw first hand last year how much 1 or 2 regular season games can change the outlook of a playoff series. It's quite plausible that we don't even make it out of the first round without the help of HCA against the Suns, which we earned by 1 or 2 extra regular season wins...

[BaumSquad]

spurs fans should respond by "taking the night off" for the next home game. No crowd at the next game? hilarious

[timvp]

I never said it was a tragedy.Wasn't directing that at you.


Do you think this was a plan before the Warriors game, if the guys did not win handily?I doubt there was a hard plan. The team should have been focused on getting the win and playing as well as possible to have a chance against Denver.


Do you think the extra 5 minute overtime really played into the decision? Yes. Five more minutes for Manu and Tony and a couple more minutes for Duncan are a lot. Especially since all those players have their minutes watched closely most of the time.

After the game, Manu said he was dead tired and banged up. He usually doesn't admit to that, especially these days when he knows Pop will sit him at any sign of injury.


Do you think it could have been determined no matter what before the Warriors game?No. I'm sure it was more of a feel. The overtime combined by the amount of effort it took to make about four or five comebacks during the game. Plus the game was physical -- with both Ginobili and Parker getting to the line a dozen times. Not to mention Duncan having to expend more energy than usual guarding smaller players.

Usually after a tough front end of a back-to-back, Pop will simply rest the Big Three early and not over play them. But the Warriors game was just an extremely taxing affair ... much more so than could be anticipated.

I was on the concede bandwagon before Pop made the move. Ginobili was all types of banged up. Parker plays on a wobbly ankle that gets more wobbly when he gets tired. Duncan probably could have handled it but you don't want to wear him out by making him carry the load without TP or Manu.

If I disagreed with anything, it was not playing Finley. Finley actually plays well against the Nuggets and his shooting could have really helped tonight. That said, if Finley plays, he probably gets all of Hairston's minutes and letting Hairston get some run was very valuable -- so even sitting Finley worked out.

[DrHouse]

Hopefully you were sauced when you wrote that because that makes no sense.


Like I was talking about before the Warriors game, the only way to conquer that pair of games was to beat the Warriors handily and get some rest. At the very worst, you try to get out of that game playing regular minutes.

Didn't happen. I thought it was a very good move to concede the Nuggets game. The chances of winning were small and the chances of injury were elevated.

Even before the season started, that was a back-to-back that stood out as very odd. Conceding 1/82nd of the regular season wasn't that much of a tragedy.

How can you say that when just last season had the Spurs won 1-2 more games they would have had the #1 seed and HCA all the way until the Finals?

They would have played DEN and UTA instead of PHX and NOH.

These games matter because the WC is such a dog fight. You never want to throw away games you could have easily won, which is what the Spurs did tonight. Now they will be 0-2 after losing to BOS on Sunday and wishing they didn't drop this one.

[timvp]

I don't understand that logic at all, this was a very winnable game considering how poorly Denver played defense for stretches of this game and the Billups injury. Playing just Parker may have been enough to pull this game out. This game could easily bite the Spurs in the ass come playoff positioning time. We saw first hand last year how much 1 or 2 regular season games can change the outlook of a playoff series. It's quite plausible that we don't even make it out of the first round without the help of HCA against the Suns, which we earned by 1 or 2 extra regular season wins...
You can't really take anything away from Denver's performance. The crowd was dead after seeing that Pop waved the white flag. Their players seemed bored for most of the game. Whenever the Spurs made a run, it was easy for Denver to turn up the juice a little bit and up the lead.

Again, I don't play Parker in this situation ... especially after we saw his ankle give out the game after he went for 55. He expended a lot of energy against the Warriors and then getting little rest and playing in altitude against a running team is a bad combination.

[DPG21920]

OK, so basically you are thinking the main purpose was the injury factor then, correct timvp?

[timvp]

How can you say that when just last season had the Spurs won 1-2 more games they would have had the #1 seed and HCA all the way until the Finals?

They would have played DEN and UTA instead of PHX and NOH.

These games matter because the WC is such a dog fight. You never want to throw away games you could have easily won, which is what the Spurs did tonight. Now they will be 0-2 after losing to BOS on Sunday and wishing they didn't drop this one.:jack

If you think this is the first time Pop has thrown a regular season game, you haven't been paying attention. Pop cares about the regular season as much as modern day Laker fans care about being loyal to one team.

[mexicanjunior]

How can you say that when just last season had the Spurs won 1-2 more games they would have had the #1 seed and HCA all the way until the Finals?

They would have played DEN and UTA instead of PHX and NOH.

These games matter because the WC is such a dog fight. You never want to throw away games you could have easily won, which is what the Spurs did tonight. Now they will be 0-2 after losing to BOS on Sunday and wishing they didn't drop this one.

Agreed...these are the types of losses you look back on when the seedings are determined. Just makes no sense at all to throw away a game like this without even testing the waters with your healthy players...

[DPG21920]

You can't really take anything away from Denver's performance. The crowd was dead after seeing that Pop waved the white flag. Their players seemed bored for most of the game. Whenever the Spurs made a run, it was easy for Denver to turn up the juice a little bit and up the lead.

Again, I don't play Parker in this situation ... especially after we saw his ankle give out the game after he went for 55. He expended a lot of energy against the Warriors and then getting little rest and playing in altitude against a running team is a bad combination.

That I agree 100% with. It is funny how everyone loves Hairston now and is quick to dismiss the Nuggets. They clearly played down to the Spurs level and Hairston, although he played well, is not able to be accurately gauged based of off tonight's mysterious game.

[HarlemHeat37]

I see what you guys are saying, but I disagree..

the Nuggets certainly aren't bad as they showed tonight..they were also playing without Kenyon Martin, and Billups for the 2nd half, which affected them as well..but I've been wanting the Nuggets in the playoffs well before tonight..we matchup well against them, and I guarantee they wouldn't be able to beat us in a series..

while I understand the logic, you also have to consider our team tonight..going into this game, our best player was Roger Mason..our 2nd best player might have been Kurt Thomas..think about that..it's a huge disparity in talent, despite Denver not playing to their full abilities..

as for Hairston..you have to consider who he was playing with..he got his points from battling for rebounds, getting good position, he drew fouls in 1 on 1 situations..he wasn't playing vs. great competition, but it shouldn't matter..it's still an NBA game, and the other team had some starters in the game..

[Man In Black]

The Lakers already beat your team at full strength a few weeks ago quite handily. I'm pretty sure they aren't shaking in their boots.

What's funny is that should they meet in the playoffs...your team will not be. Don't think that integration of an injured player can happen in a 2 week stretch. Don't think that Bynum's injury can heal as fast as Farmar's, it's a completely different injury, and their body types are so different. 285 and lumbering is so different bio-mechanically than 170 and light on your feet.

I seem to recall the Spurs did the same thing the week before.:flag:

[NFGIII]

This has been a very interesting and hilarious thread to read. All the sniping back and forth with trolls entering into the fray just to :stirpot:

One side stating that it's terrible because:

1) its sucks - I wanna see the Big 3 and do you realize how that makes the Spurs look on NBA TV?

2) unprofessional - pros play because they're paid to

3) cheats the fans -puts an inferior product on the floor and they pay the salaries dont they?

4) could cost them come seeding time - Didn't you know that Denver was a conference rival Pop?

OR

The other side calling it a brilliant move because it:

1) protects the Big 3's health - resting said players will reduce the tendency for injury since we all know that tired players are more prone to injury than rested ones and if we lose one of the big 3 ..........well you all know what that would mean!

2) gives role players more minutes to get into a groove thereby developing our bench further - and that goes for Mason, too.

3) gives Pop an opportunity to take a look at Hairston for extended minutes while in a real situation rather than garbage time where it is more difficult to evaluate his possible contibutions down the road

4) will ultimately lead to a championship or a better chance at winning one at the very least.

Frankly I wanted to see the Big 3 play also but will defer to Pop when it comes to decisions about the team. This decision obviously has its pros and cons but from my viewpoint I think it has far more upside than downside. I really can't/don't believe that this one game will make the difference in a higher or lower seed. It might or it might not but as of right now we don't know if it will. Time will tell. But it seems that the arguments supporting Pop have a more objective view than those who disagree with it.

This thread needs to get bumped come seeding time in order to see who were right and who were wrong.

:flag:

[Blackjack]

But where is the proof that this helps you avoid serious injury?

Fatigue leaving the body more susceptible to injury is a pretty standard belief, and given how Tony last sprained his ankle (second game of a back-to-back, after a double-overtime win at Minn.) it's hard to blame Pop for playing it cautious.


Why do it tonight, instead of yesterday?

Circumstance dictated rest, not a predetermined plan. Had the Spurs been able to handle the Warriors with any kind of relative ease, I seriously doubt you see the Big 3 resting. I actually think there was a little psychological aspect to this as well for Pop.

The last time they played the Nuggets, they ran them out of their own gym. The Nuggets were looking to exact some revenge and gain some confidence/momentum with a win against the Spurs, so I think Pop took that into some consideration. I'm sure Pop thought the odds were definitely stacked against them, so instead of giving the Nuggets any kind of shot in the arm with a likely win, he turned a lose/lose into a win/win.

Lose/lose in that, you probably lose the game and risk getting the Nuggets on any kind of roll. (The Spurs do want, and probably need that 2 seed.)

Win/win in that, you get a many break to rest-up and heal some minor bumps and bruises with the next game not coming until Sunday, and you get valuable minutes for role players/rookies who are left with a good taste in their mouth with a solid showing on the road.

[DPG21920]

Well this is why asking is important. If this was premeditated (which I thought it was), then it makes it a little different. If not, then I understand fully.

[m33p0]

I won't argue with that - he needs to more consistent on offense, but I've always thought that his worth to the Spurs was on defense. We face a lot of teams with dominating guards - NO, Utah, Dallas, Phoenix, Denver, etc. To me, his usefulness will be in defending those guards in certiain situations. Other than that, he needs to run the offense and not turn the ball over. If he becomes more consistent on offense (mainly finishing at the rim,) that is a bonus.
he needs to be aggressive on offense coz if the spurs rely on him only for his defense, he's basically jacque vaughn jr. i don't think he was ready for this game. hopefully, this teaches him to be ready coz you never know when you're being called to deliver.

[timvp]

Fatigue leaving the body more susceptible to injury is a pretty standard belief, and given how Tony last sprained his ankle (second game of a back-to-back, after a double-overtime win at Minn.) it's hard to blame Pop for playing it cautious. To see how a combination of fatigue and travel can make players more susceptible to injury, all you have to do is look at the difference in the regular season and the playoffs. In the playoffs, there are no back-to-backs and far less travel. The result? Less injuries.

[Blackjack]

To see how a combination of fatigue and travel can make players more susceptible to injury, all you have to do is look at the difference in the regular season and the playoffs. In the playoffs, there are no back-to-backs and far less travel. The result? Less injuries.

:tu

Losing your starting point-guard to a non-contact ankle injury, a day after dropping 55 in a double-overtime victory, I'm guessing reinforces that belief.

[024]

popovich shouldn't have rested finley, parker, and duncan for the entire game. each of them should have gotten 10-12 minutes to at least demonstrate the spurs are trying. from the nuggets' point of view, it was pretty disrespectful to hold four starters inactive. spurs could have won if parker and duncan played some minutes off the bench. not too many minutes that would wear them out, but at least some to play competitively.

[LA24]

I really don't understand why all the non Spurs fans are complaining
about. Any time the Spurs lose and for whatever reason or cause, is a good thing. Stop complaining and wish that Pop would do this more often. idiots.

[m33p0]

I really don't understand why all the non Spurs fans are complaining
about. Any time the Spurs lose and for whatever reason or cause, is a good thing. Stop complaining and wish that Pop would do this more often. idiots.
:lol that's actually spot on.

[Tully365]

I can appreciate both sides of this debate, but I still can't help thinking that it might've been wise to tell Duncan & Parker at half time to stay warmed up and well-stretched just in case the team is down by 2 points with under 6 minutes to go, or down 4 points with 2 minutes to go... imagine how a tired and worn out Nene or Carmelo would have felt if suddenly they were faced with having to guard a completely fresh Tim & Tony for just the last 3 or 4 minutes of the game. Oh well-- it's all speculation at this point. I do wonder though, if this scenario had played out not in a Spurs game but in a Laker game and Phil held out Kobe, Pau, and Odom, how many Spur fans would rush to this forum to claim that the move proves his genius as a coach, and how many Laker fans would argue that it proves he is a coward, an idiot, etc...

[LA24]

and how many Laker fans would argue that it proves he is a coward, an idiot, etc...

Don't know if that is referring to me, but I wasn't calling Pop an idiot, rather the non Spurs fans.

[Tully365]

Don't know if that is referring to me, but I wasn't calling Pop an idiot, rather the non Spurs fans.

No, not at all-- it was just a general question.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

I love how this decision maddens non-spurs fans more than the spurs fans, especially the laker trolls and ploto, thoroughly enjoyable!

It was a good decision and a statement as well. The fact it was televised only helped Pop's statement get more recognition. And the more it's being discussed the more ingenious the move will prove to be.

[Yorae]

I just realized that since the scrubs can keep it close with winning teams, how about not playing the big 3 until the 4th qtr in most games?

[wisnub]

Big Three a Big Zero tonight (http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2009/02/big-three-a-big.html)
By Jeff McDonald

No Tim Duncan. No Tony Parker. No Manu Ginobili. That's all that will be missing from the Spurs' lineup tonight at Denver.

A night after the Spurs expended so much energy to get past Golden State in overtime, coach Gregg Popovich just informed the gathered media that he plans to rest each and every member of his Big Three.

The decision on Ginobili comes with a bit of an injury concern. He suffered a left hip contusion taking a fall against the Warriors. With three days off after tonight, Popovich felt it was best to give him the night off.

As for Duncan and Parker, the Spurs' top two scorers? They're just getting the night off "for a variety of reasons," Popovich said.

"Parker makes the All-Star team, becomes hard to deal with, so we're going to sit him and teach him a lesson," Popovich joked. "Duncan says he wants to renegotiate his contract, so I said, 'Sit, I'm not talking to you.' "

Though Popovich wouldn't say so, it's worth wondering if this new and not-so-improved rotation is meant to send a message to the league scheduling wizards, who sent the Spurs to Denver by way of Oakland.

After Monday's overtime win, the Spurs did not lay their heads on their pillows in Denver until close to 4 a.m. Ragged and facing an uphill battle against the Nuggets anyway, Popovich has apparently opted to steal an extra day of rest for his most important players.

I totally understand Manu rest to avoid injury. But Tony And DUncan? I dont mean to disrespect,but are Spurs try to get home court advantage? I mean Lakers loose Bynum and they burn NY anyway... Do you think Celtics will rest their Big 3, maybe one but 3 ??????? I know we need more rest, Duncan probably need more rest, but i still think Tony can handle it...he should be able to play coz everybody except big 3 played. Spurs is the only top team who did this...nobody else did it...nobody with 4 championships on their records ever did it. Dallas and Pistons did rest their starters before playoffs...but LA and Celtics wouldnt just laid down and sleep in hotel, i mean these guys get paid millions as an athletes...mandatory overtime should be on the menu when one try to secure home advantage. If Spurs think they can not get past Lakers in terms of home court then i understand why pop sits Tony coz hes young ( only Manu is excusable). Duncan should play at least in 2nd half with reduced minutes (show some leadership). I got problem when a guys gets paid millions of dollars but still dont want to battle while the record on the line, or perhaps Pop didnt care about regular season. This case I appreciate Lakers for fighting after Bynum go down. I saw many times when Spurs down double digit, Pop rest Big 3 even when it still early 3rd quarter...this attitude really annoy me. Celtics and Lakers played hard even though theyre down double digits...If this saving energy attitude continues in playoffs then im not surprise if Spurs lost,they deserve it...even warriors (Baron Davis era) played until the the very end even when they are losing

[ForeignFan]

I generally like Pop's idea but I have one question: should Pop not have included Tim and TP and/or Fin when the game was close?

And I definitely hope Spurs will have a good game in Boston - if they get trashed, Pop's move will not look so smart I guess...

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

And I definitely hope Spurs will have a good game in Boston - if they get trashed, Pop's move will not look so smart I guess...

Why? Resting them doesn't have anything to do with Boston.