Top 25 Spurs Bigman Free Agent Targets

[EricB]

McDeyss would not see minutes at the end of games?

Hmmm, doesn't compute.

[duncan228]

Spurs begin free agent window shopping (http://www.examiner.com/x-14479-San-Antonio-Spurs-Examiner~y2009m6d30-Spurs-begin-free-agent-window-shopping)
Michael Chartier

With the 2009 NBA Draft in the books and free agency set to begin in less than 24 hours, the San Antonio Spurs are a step away from completing their transformation.

Arguably, San Antonio is set to enter the 2009-2010 season with their strongest roster since 2003.

The trade for Richard Jefferson and drafting of DeJuan Blair should add some immediate punch to a lineup expected to see the return of Manu Ginobili and unveiling of Ian Mahinmi.

While the Spurs could also use a backup point guard, the passing of project big men Josh Heytvelt and Chinemelu Elonu in the draft would suggest that San Antonio will use their mid level exception on a veteran frontcourt player.

Here’s a look at some of the top choices that will be available on Wednesday and their likelihood to wear a Spurs’ uniform for the upcoming season.

Anderson Varejao (CLE) – Player Option. At just over $6 million a season, Varejao is at the cusp of his earning potential - much more would be reaching and overpaying. The Cavaliers were smart to turn down his overtures of a long term deal at seven figures per annum. While an active, long-armed defender, his offensive game is lacking. Expect Varejao to play out the season alongside Lebron and Shaq and try to parlay that into better numbers and a sweeter deal next summer. Spurs: Possible. Not likely.

Antonio McDyess (DET) – Unrestricted. McDyess isn't sexy but he is steady. Antonio will be 35 when the season begins and he hasn't averaged double figures in scoring since his days in Denver. But he hasn't been overworked either. In the 2001-2002 season, McDyess ruptured his petellar tendon (knee) and spent the next 4 seasons battling surgeries, including missing the 2002-2003 season in its entirety. However, he has been healthy the past 5 years. While not the explosive player he was before the injury, McDyess is a good defensive player and can knock down mid range jumpers. Spurs: Possible if San Antonio thinks the career 67 percent free throw shooter is the best option when evaluating experience, talent and contract size, which he could be.

Brandon Bass (DAL) – Unrestricted. Strong, athletic and young. Bass is a bit undersized for a power forward but his skill set is not far from Millsap and could come at 1/3 of the cost or less. San Antonio got quite a few looks with Bass playing in Dallas the last two years. They should be well aware of his talent and athleticism. Spurs: Very Possible if the Spurs want to add a reasonably priced, high energy, strong but undersized athlete at the four spot.

Carlos Boozer (UTA) – Early Termination Option. At 27, Boozer can opt out of his final year and over $12.5 million. If he does, he’ll be doing it for a long term contract. Spurs: No shot.

Channing Frye (POR) – Unrestricted. The Trail Blazers decided not to make the $4.6 million qualifying offer to the 4-year veteran. Only 26, Frye is long and athletic. After averaging about 12 points and 6 rebounds in 24 minutes per game as a rookie, Frye’s numbers dropped dramatically when New York traded him after just two seasons. In Portland, Frye didn’t get many minutes posting under 12 a game last year as the Blazers worked in Greg Oden, Joel Pryzbilla and LaMarcus Aldridge. At 6-11, Frye could be a great value signing. Spurs: Possible if he is on their radar.

Charlie Villanueva (MIL) – Unrestricted. The Bucks declined to tender the once restricted free agent an offer, making him readily available. Reports have Cleveland high on his list but the 25-year-old power forward should command between $5-7 million on the open market. Don’t be surprised if he just goes to the highest bidder. Spurs: Possible. Not likely.

Chris Andersen (DEN) – Unrestricted. Nuggets’ fans have embraced Andersen’s high-flying act and energy. Plus, Denver believed in him despite returning after a 2-year substance abuse suspension from the league. While he could command upwards of $6-8 million on the open market, both parties should want to stay together. Spurs: No shot.

David Lee (NY) – Restricted. San Antonio passed on Lee coming out of Florida, instead opting for Ian Mahinmi. The 26-year-old power forward led the league with 65 double-doubles. Yes, the same league with Dwight Howard and Tim Duncan. With New York eyeing 2010 and Lebron James, the Knicks will may be more fiscally prudent than in recent years. Still, Lee is in a position to earn more than the mid level. Spurs: Not likely.

Drew Gooden (SAS) – Unrestricted. He’s looking for a home and last season Gooden called Chicago, Sacramento and San Antonio home for at least one game. He’s only 28 and will put up 12 points and 8 rebounds a night if you give him 30 minutes. He can score and rebound but he’s not a particularly special defensive player, which the Spurs might prefer. Gooden won’t attract big offers on the free agent market and should jump at the chance to get a solid multi-year deal and an opportunity to play 20-25 minutes a game. Spurs: Possible if the Spurs cannot can’t find a better option and don’t wait too long.

Glen Davis (BOS) – Restricted. San Antonio took Marcus Williams ahead of Big Baby in 2007. The former SEC Player of the Year, Davis, stepped up big when Boston lost Kevin Garnett. Davis showed the same active motor he displayed at LSU but the 6-7, 289 pounder has quickly turned himself into an all around player in just two seasons. Expect Boston to match any reasonable offer for the 23-year-old as the Celtics may be penciling him in with a core of Paul Pierce and Garnett. He’s better than Brandon Bass offensively but not near as explosive. He also won’t come as cheaply. Spurs: Not likely.

Lamar Odom (LAL) – Unrestricted. Does anyone think he’s really going to leave LA? Does anyone think he can be signed for $5 million? Spurs: No shot.

Linas Kleiza (DEN) – Unrestricted. After spending his first four seasons in Denver, the 24-year-old power forward could get a long term deal. The former Missouri product has been a steady contributor off the Nuggets’ bench each of the last three seasons. A strong, tough athlete, Kleiza can shoot threes and mix it up inside. Spurs: Possible if the numbers fit and they can’t get someone higher on their list.

Marcin Gortat (ORL) – Restricted. If Orlando does not resign Hedo Turkoglu, Gortat could stay with the Magic. After a solid season and playoff performance, the 25-year-old Polish Hammer is seeking more playing time than he’ll get with Dwight Howard in front of him. He’s also seeking more than the $1 million he’s set to earn behind him. Gortat showed good feet and lateral quickness for a big man and could stand nicely next to Duncan for the right price. The downside? It has to be more than Orlando is willing to match. Spurs: Possible. Not likely.

Mehmet Okur (UTA) – Early Termination Option. At $9 million and 30 years of age, Okur will likely stay a member of the Jazz. Unless he sees a long term suitor out there, it would be hard to hand over $9 million guaranteed unless you could lock up $30 for the next 5 seasons. For San Antonio, he doesn’t provide the defensive edge or athleticism necessary to compliment Duncan. Spurs: Not likely.

Paul Millsap (UTA) – Restricted. The Jazz will likely match any offer and that offer may be near the $10 million range for the 24-year-old power forward. Spurs: No shot.

Rasheed Wallace (DET) – Unrestricted. He’ll be 35 when the season begins but he did make an All-Star team just a season ago. A motivated Wallace would give any contender a presence and a boost to their frontcourt. Some may wonder if he has anything left. He does, but it has to be in the right situation. Spurs: Possible if the Spurs front office thinks he can fit, if Wallace has any desire to win a second ring and if no other team decides they should overpay for his services.

Shawn Marion (TOR) – Unrestricted. The 4-time All-Star is at that age, 31, where winning might be foremost on his mind. He’s made money in this league, lots of it. But he’s never won a title and he is also coming off time in Toronto, which should have him dying to be on a winner again. Can the Matrix get one more multi-year deal between $8-10 a season? If he does, that will be a pay cut. If he doesn’t, he might just be on the Spurs’ radar. Spurs: Possible. Not likely.

Zaza Pachulia (ATL) – Unrestricted. The two biggest differences between Gortat and Pachulia are quickness and experience. While they are about the same age, Pachulia is not quite the athlete that Gortat flashes. However, Pachulia has shown toughness and a much more polished offensive game. He also has enough experience that he’s proven he’s not a franchise center. And because he is a known quantity, he may come cheaper. Spurs: Possible if they’re looking for a center and Pachulia wants to play for a winner.

[Mugen]

Sheed to the Celtics would be a longshot. They already got Perk which means he would still have to fight for closing mins because Perkins is a really good player.

Plus i just dont see Sheed playing in Boston with those fans.

its the Magic or Spurs.

i kinda think the Magic have the advantage right now. thats just the vibe ive been getting from all the news reports.

[HarlemHeat37]

I don't think anybody has an edge right now..Rasheed hasn't said anything, so nobody has the edge..

the media obviously doesn't want the spurs to get him for obvious reasons..

[Sobe_Kucks]

10. Glen Davis
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4313.jpg16. Shelden Williams
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4133.jpg



There are no words.....
:rollin

[duncan228]

Charlie Villanueva: Pistons Interested? (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=rotowire-harlieillanuevaiston&prov=rotowire&type=fantasy)


Update: The Pistons are expected to make a play for Villanueva, who became an unrestricted free agent on Monday after the Bucks declined to extend him a qualifying offer, the Detroit News reports.

Recommendation: Villanueva, who turns 25 in August, broke out with the Bucks last season, averaging 16.7 points and 6.7 rebounds. He developed into an offensive force who can work in the post or drill a three. With Antonio McDyess and Rasheed Wallace both expected to leave via free agency, the Pistons will lack a front court scoring presence and Villanueva could fill that need.

[HarlemHeat37]

Why would Detroit want him?!..

[coyotes_geek]

Good question. They were supposedly big on Boozer, but he decided not to opt out.

[K-State Spur]

shelden williams is a rare talent in that he can look up and see his nostrils. seriously, the guy looks like admiral ackbar.

[Obstructed_View]

I think the firing of Michael Curry could be a bad sign for San Antonio. It's possible that Joe Dumars looked at the free agent list and saw that two of his own players were right at the top. Hiring a coach that Rasheed thinks could bring the team back to contention could keep him in Detroit, and it's fairly logical that Dice would follow suit.

[Behrooz24]

shelden williams is a rare talent in that he can look up and see his nostrils. seriously, the guy looks like admiral ackbar.

Imagine if he had the Charlie V. no-hair-disease thing. http://smiliesftw.com/x/ohnoes.gif

[coyotes_geek]

I think the firing of Michael Curry could be a bad sign for San Antonio. It's possible that Joe Dumars looked at the free agent list and saw that two of his own players were right at the top. Hiring a coach that Rasheed thinks could bring the team back to contention could keep him in Detroit, and it's fairly logical that Dice would follow suit.

Dumars didn't give away Chauncey Billups so that they could clear cap room to re-sign Sheed and Dyess.

[spurtilldeath]

Looks like Boozer is sticking with Jazz this season, Villanueva to Pistons is a possibility based on earlier posts. Nuggets would want to keep Birdman. The only legitimate chances seem to be, but then whom am I kidding, we are talking abt the Spurs here..
1. Sheed
2. Dice
3. Pachulia
4. Gortat

[coyotes_geek]

With Boozer staying in Utah, Okur as well, Milsap suddenly becomes a guy who a team like Detroit might be able to pry away.

[pkbpkb81]

If sheed is going to Boston dose that mean they are letting big baby walk?

[Russ]

Looks like Boozer is sticking with Jazz this season, Villanueva to Pistons is a possibility based on earlier posts. Nuggets would want to keep Birdman. The only legitimate chances seem to be, but then whom am I kidding, we are talking abt the Spurs here..
1. Sheed
2. Dice
3. Pachulia
4. Gortat

With the slim pickins available, another option is to grab a cheap big (like they did with Elson in '06) and then let the season play out.

That way they can see what they have in Blair (and even, gulp, Mahinmi) and trade for a (hopefully) better big than they could sign now.

Camby will be traded at some point, but the Clippers are always reluctant to pull the trigger in off-season deals (preferring to wait until the inevitable crushing disappointment of the season compels them to act).

There is no hurry as long as the free agent bigs are as weak as they now appear to be. Keep the powder dry and act when other teams' desperation sets in. :toast

[Spurs Brazil]

Okur Won't Exercise ETO With Utah


Jun 30, 2009 7:33 PM EST
Utah Jazz center Mehmet Okur announced today he has elected to remain with the franchise for the 2009-10 season, and is declining to exercise his early termination option. “We are looking forward to Memo’s return,” said Utah Jazz general manager Kevin O’Connor. “He has clearly been an integral part of our success since his arrival and we are hopeful that he will continue to perform at such a high level in the future.”

http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/60219/20090630/okur_wont_exercise_eto_with_utah/

[Gino2882]

If sheed is going to Boston dose that mean they are letting big baby walk?

Big Baby is a RFA and I believe Boston gave him a qualifying offer.

The Celts would have the right to match any offer.

[pkbpkb81]

Big Baby is a RFA and I believe Boston gave him a qualifying offer.

The Celts would have the right to match any offer.

but if the got sheed would they, unless they can move allen that will put the over the lt wont it

[HarlemHeat37]

They wouldn't match a MLE offer for Baby if they get 'Sheed..BBD isn't worth that much though, so he won't get it..

[HarlemHeat37]

Looks like Okur is opting to stay in Utah, meaning Paul Millly is pretty much a 100% out..

[pkbpkb81]

big baby is young and showed up big in the playoffs if we miss on sheed i say get big baby

[HarlemHeat37]

He's a good player, but he doesn't fit what we need..we also have a project in Blair that has the exact same body type, so I don't think we should have 2 short PFs as our main big men next to Duncan..

[urunobili]

Guys is there any remote chance we could get Millsap?

[HarlemHeat37]

No chance at all..he's getting paid..

[duncan228]

Cavaliers’ Varejao now a free agent (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-cavaliers-varejao&prov=ap&type=lgns)

Cavaliers forward Anderson Varejao did not exercise his option on a $6.2 million contract for next season, making him an unrestricted free agent.

The hustling Varejao posted career-highs in starts (42), scoring (8.6), field-goal percentage (.536) and minutes (28.5) per game last season for the Cavs, who won 66 regular-season games but were eliminated in the Eastern Conference finals by Orlando.

Cleveland general manager Danny Ferry has stated his intent to re-sign Varejao and the Cavs may offer him a contract during the free-agency signing period which starts on Wednesday.

The 6-foot-11 Varejao sat out a large chunk of last season in a contract dispute with Cleveland, but has said he wants to stay with the Cavs.

[K-State Spur]

big baby is young and showed up big in the playoffs if we miss on sheed i say get big baby

he did have a good playoffs, but there had been absolutely nothing special about him up until that point.

his track record heading into the playoffs was that of a poor offensive player who shoots too much and he's pretty terrible on the boards. and he blocks about 1 more shot per season than oberto.

he did step up in the playoffs. the question was that just a hot 10 game stretch against two teams that aren't known for front court size/depth (beyond Dwight Howard) - or was it a legit coming out party?

i lean towards the former, but accept the possibility of the latter.

[Mugen]

rockets after Gortat

http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/60227/20090701/morey_kicks_off_free_agency_with_gortat_tweet/

[timvp]

Sounds like the top three choices are Wallace, McDyess and Bass ... if McDonald is to be believed.





Guess we should take a closer look at Bass with the Spurs' reported interest.

-According to combine measurements, Bass is exactly one inch taller than Blair and his wingspan is half an inch bigger.

-He's a pretty damn good jumpshooter. He hits about 45% of his jumpers. However, near the basket, he's dunk or bust. With the Mavs, he has shot about 36% close to the baskets on attempts that aren't dunks. That's horrible for a bigman. The problem is that he gets blocked about 30% of the time on close shots. In other words, he hasn't figured out how to finish to compensate for his lack of height.

-His two years with the Mavs resulted in almost exactly the same stats (approximately 8.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in 20 minutes). That would make him a relatively low risk signing. He's shown enough to prove he can play on the NBA level.

-He just turned 24 so Bass has a chance to improve. Two straight years of posting a 16 PER is pretty good.

-Bass has been damn good in the playoffs. Both years in the playoffs, he's had a PER of better than 22. He's hit 52.1% of his shots in the playoffs and 52-of-56 free throws :wow. Plus only seven turnovers in 325 career playoff minutes.

Overall, these stats make me like him a little bit more. I like his consistency and his playoff stats. His finishing ability is really shaky but having a jumper is good. Plus he's young enough that he should have four or five high quality years left.

I think my main hesitation is that he doesn't really have a good feel for the game. He's basically an isolation bigman. In an offense that requires a lot of read and reacting, I'm not sure he can hang. Plus he seems much more of a bench player than a starter.

Still would much rather have Sheed or McDyess but I could see Bass being an option. I'd feel much better about Bass of the Spurs are sure about Blair's ability to produce right away.

[kbrury]

Im not for it but what do you think the ideal price for bass is? As like a plan C if Sheed, Dice, Zaza don't come, could we split the mle for two decent bigmen?

[timvp]

Im not for it but what do you think the ideal price for bass is? As like a plan C if Sheed, Dice, Zaza don't come, could we split the mle for two decent bigmen?

I think Bass would cost most of the MLE ... if not the whole MLE. A lot of teams are supposedly interested and any big who is 24 years old will bank these days as long as he's shown some promise.

[Mugen]

i loved brandon bass on the spurs til the 37th pick was announced.

[kbrury]

If it comes to it Gooden over Bass

[Manufan909]

If it comes to it Gooden over Bass

+ 1

Sheed>Gortat>Dice>Gooden>Rasho>Javtokas>Bass>>>>Iannis:hat

[Obstructed_View]

I think the firing of Michael Curry could be a bad sign for San Antonio. It's possible that Joe Dumars looked at the free agent list and saw that two of his own players were right at the top. Hiring a coach that Rasheed thinks could bring the team back to contention could keep him in Detroit, and it's fairly logical that Dice would follow suit.

Update: Whew. Glad to be wrong about that one. And not just a little wrong.

[timvp]

I almost put Josh Childress on the list but I think he's probably just a bit too small. Anyone think the Spurs can survive with Childress at PF?

[polandprzem]

I almost put Josh Childress on the list but I think he's probably just a bit too small. Anyone think the Spurs can survive with Childress at PF?

Is he a bigman?

[timvp]

Is he a bigman?Is there an echo?

[Muser]

I almost put Josh Childress on the list but I think he's probably just a bit too small. Anyone think the Spurs can survive with Childress at PF?

No, we should be loading this team with the Lakers in mind. Childress at 6 ft 8 would not measure up with either of their 7 footers.

[coyotes_geek]

It's awfully quiet on the Zaza Pachulia front. Perhaps a little too quiet????

Just sayin...........

[polandprzem]

Is there an echo?

Can echo play PF as well?

Umm, but seriously. I don't really like the idea of having the mobile guy at the PF position, mobile and without a strenght. All in all we need somebody to take those close rebs along TD. Well spurs had problems with long ones, hopefully RJ will be abe to adapt to a role where he can get long rebs.
I need strenght and big on PF position if TD plays center. We need to protect the rim better, now when Bruce is not there it will be double importatnt.

[urunobili]

I almost put Josh Childress on the list but I think he's probably just a bit too small. Anyone think the Spurs can survive with Childress at PF?

first time I read you post such a bad idea... as skinny as he is.. he'd get easily killed by anyone posting him and would get easily overpowered...
he'd get 0 rebounds as well... pass...

[bishopospurs]

No Robert Swift?

[timvp]

first time I read you post such a bad idea... as skinny as he is.. he'd get easily killed by anyone posting him and would get easily overpowered...
he'd get 0 rebounds as well... pass...

You must have missed the Matt Bonner Era.

[tp2021]

You must have missed the Matt Bonner Era.

I thought the one thing you liked about his defense was his strength

[urunobili]

You must have missed the Matt Bonner Era.

At least he has the height and weight to be stood up and force someone's shot... unless Childress plays to take a charge 100% of the time he ain't playing PF...

He'd be my wet dream 6th man of the bench... but playing as either SG or SF...

[bishopospurs]

Bonner isn't skinny though... Kerry Kittles now that guys was skinny

[in2deep]

Bonner is no weakling. He threw down Garnett one time

[timvp]

I thought the one thing you liked about his defense was his strength

No, his mobility. When Erick Dampier can power through you and dunk on you as you curl up into the fetal position on the court, strength isn't an asset.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I almost put Josh Childress on the list but I think he's probably just a bit too small. Anyone think the Spurs can survive with Childress at PF?

Too skinny for regular rotation big (210 lbs). Ideal for small ball though.

[DPG21920]

Timvp: It seems like recently you have sort of been pushing for an atypical power foward. Do you think this is the way the league is going? Or is it just the best option for the Spurs because you feel so strongly they are going small-ball-four with Finley or another option more often than not?

[bishopospurs]

please do not speak such scary ideas into existence... finley at the 4? please god no. I do see it as a trend though. Lebron next to shaq at the 4.

[timvp]

Timvp: It seems like recently you have sort of been pushing for an atypical power foward. Do you think this is the way the league is going?It seems like the power forward in the NBA is getting smaller and quicker compared to five years ago. After seeing Rashard Lewis totally destroy the Cavs' stout defense with his quickness and ability to play out on the perimeter, I think every contending team now realizes that you have to be able to have at least one bigman who can play out on the perimeter. If you don't, you'll get pick-and-rolled to death.

With that in mind, I added Kleiza to this list. I think Childress is too small to consider and left him off. But if you are looking to spend the MLE on someone after Sheed and McDyess are off the board, Childress is one of the few players that should be somewhat attainable, the Spurs have shown interest in during past seasons and could buy minutes at PF. I just don't think he can buy enough minutes. I was seeing if someone else could make the argument.


Or is it just the best option for the Spurs because you feel so strongly they are going small-ball-four with Finley or another option more often than not?Well, yeah Childress would be nice if only to keep Finley away from the court.

Would an offseason pull of something like Childress and Rasho be enough? I guess it depends if the Spurs are confident in the young bigs.

Hopefully the Spurs just land Wallace or McDyess and don't have to worry about getting crafty . . .

[tp2021]

Hopefully the Spurs land Wallace or McDyess and also decide to get crafty . . .

:smokin

[DPG21920]

We will see...not to mention if the Spurs get a Childress or someone else on a nice contract, trades are possible.

[vander]

A small case for Gooden:

the days of TD being able to consistently create his own shot are mostly over. and while I do believe Blair can become a ferocious scorer, that still means our only big man with offensive game this year will be a 2nd round rookie. And you have to be able to score inside with your big men, it's like the running game in football.

[HarlemHeat37]

Duncan was completely dominant before his injury..it isn't a coincidence that his offensive game went completely inept the first game back from injury..that's a pretty ridiculous statement..

[vander]

Duncan was completely dominant before his injury..it isn't a coincidence that his offensive game went completely inept the first game back from injury..that's a pretty ridiculous statement..

we'll see

[Agloco]

Bonner is no weakling. He threw down Garnett one time

As long as you're talking from a physical standpoint, I'd agree. Mentally though, it's an entirely different ballgame.

[ploto]

The more I think about it, the more I see Bass. The Spurs have a long history of signing guys who play well against them, and if Dallas is signing Gortat...

[tav1]

It seems like the power forward in the NBA is getting smaller and quicker compared to five years ago. After seeing Rashard Lewis totally destroy the Cavs' stout defense with his quickness and ability to play out on the perimeter, I think every contending team now realizes that you have to be able to have at least one bigman who can play out on the perimeter. If you don't, you'll get pick-and-rolled to death.

With that in mind, I added Kleiza to this list. I think Childress is too small to consider and left him off. But if you are looking to spend the MLE on someone after Sheed and McDyess are off the board, Childress is one of the few players that should be somewhat attainable, the Spurs have shown interest in during past seasons and could buy minutes at PF. I just don't think he can buy enough minutes. I was seeing if someone else could make the argument.



Well, yeah Childress would be nice if only to keep Finley away from the court.

Would an offseason pull of something like Childress and Rasho be enough? I guess it depends if the Spurs are confident in the young bigs.

Hopefully the Spurs just land Wallace or McDyess and don't have to worry about getting crafty . . .

If the Spurs go for Childress, I think he plays the two. They go with more length in their backcourt. He just doesn't have the size for power forward. At that point you close your eyes and hope for the best from James Gist. Or, you try to trade for someone like Tyrus Thomas or, more attainably, Brandon Wright.

[timvp]

If the Spurs go for Childress, I think he plays the two. They go with more length in their backcourt. Disagree. He wouldn't work well as the starting two on the Spurs. He doesn't have the ballhandling or the shooting. He has to play the three and the small ball four in the Spurs' system.


Or, you try to trade for someone like Tyrus Thomas or, more attainably, Brandon Wright.I would say Tyrus Thomas is more attainable than Brandan Wright. But I'd go in a different direction and go for a veteran big like a Foster, Collison or Camby. Adding another young big to the equation makes the bigs too young -- something I never thought I'd say again :lol

[tav1]

Well, there is a 1 in a hundred chance we'd get to see whose read is better on Childress as a Spur, but I'd take him either way.

I wonder how much Atlanta could demand in return for Childress? They can't have much leverage. Everyone knows he won't play for them. If the Spurs wanted him, I bet they could get him.

I've heard that the Warriors are dangling Wright in exchange for a pick and a shooter. Nellie doesn't think he can play him because of the emergence of Randolph and Biedrins, two other guys who can't score beyond a few feet.

I hear you on the relative age thing. The Spurs are almost too young. But if Chicago would give up Thomas on the cheap, I don't think the Spurs could say no. Too much talent. He's cheap. He's tradable. His contract expires soon. He's a can't lose situation. I'm convinced half his development issues are his coaches.

[Marcus Bryant]

I would say Tyrus Thomas is more attainable than Brandan Wright. But I'd go in a different direction and go for a veteran big like a Foster, Collison or Camby. Adding another young big to the equation makes the bigs too young -- something I never thought I'd say again :lol

Dealing Bonner, Finley and the 2010 1st rounder for Foster and then using the MLE and LLE to go after free agents like Childress, Gooden, Powe, Kleiza, Hermann, Nesterovic, Carney, and Hill might not be that exciting, but could very well get the job done. As much as fans think you need to put together a near All-Star lineup to win, I'm not sure. The Spurs need good role players now, guys who don't need the ball to be effective.

If they get a solid starting center in a trade (such as Foster) then they can afford to gamble using their MLE on a restricted free agent such as a Kleiza or Childress. Especially if they can complete the bigman rotation by picking up a Nesterovic or Powe with the LLE.

Of course, they could use their MLE on a 5 like Pachulia and then use the Bonner, Finley, and #1 combo to make a run at a solid 3 for the bench, like a Nocioni.

There's no reason to panic if the Spurs lose out on Wallace. In fact, it may work out for the best if they do...

[mikeb2016]

If the Spurs are going to use the MLE on a small ball 4 type, they should go after Marvin Williams aggressively and gauge his interest in signing a full MLE deal for X amount of years. His potential would be worth the full 5, if he wanted to go that long. Of course he may prefer the QO from Atlanta for this year and wait until 2010 to cash in, but its worth the effort.

If he were interested, I think its worth tying up our MLE for 7 days to see if the Hawks will match. They may well do it, but again, I think its worth the effort. Williams is substantially better as a small ball 4 than Childress, and he would do well spotting up in the weakside corner, while Jefferson slashes from the wing, Tony runs pick and roll with Tim or Tim posts up on the block with Manu on the strong side wing. Williams also has the aggressive on the ball D that could hound the Nowitzki/Kobe/Carmelo types, tag-teaming with Jefferson to fill Bowen's role.

If this scenario could somehow play out, the Spurs still need to get a body, and Mr. Nesterovic would be a great, low budget choice to get a second chance at a first impression. At this point in his career, and with not having to be the guy filling in David Robinson's shoes, he would actually be a perfect choice as a 10-15 mpg 5, playing 30 minutes on nights against Shaq, Bynum, Oden, etc. (I almost said Yao, just for the sake of picking on my neighbors and co-workers- I have the unfortunate "privilege" of living in the Houston area- but I abstained for the sake of not kicking a guy while he is down!). If the young bigs are not adjusting well (or Mahinimi and Blair are having medical difficulties), Leon Powe becomes the perfect mid-season pick up (assuming he is past his medical difficulties) to team with Duncan, Rasho and Bonner (if in fact Bonner and Finley are not dealt for some real talent, as they should be, as salary dumps start taking place in January).

Now all this being said, I still say that getting Rasheed or McDyess makes too much sense not to make it the Plan A and B, as has been said often on this thread. However, if the Spurs whiff on Wallace (and that is looking 50/50 right now), and McDyess decides to wait on making his decision, I think it may be wiser to go after the best talent you can get, especially in a buyer's market, with the MLE, and use the LLE or minimum contracts to get bodies to fill the positional needs. I would much rather do that than to overpay for a Brandon Bass or ZaZa Pachulia type, especially if you had to give those guys 4-5 years. If we have to start afresh 2-3 years from now, Marvin Williams will be a guy just coming into his prime, with a couple of years under his belt in the system, and he has the potential to be a legitimate number 2 guy behind TP. Bass or Pachulia will never be more than they are now, and we will be begging for the FO to dump their contracts and get some real talent in the front court.

What do you think?

[coyotes_geek]

Spurs, IMHO, need a PF/C, not a SF/PF. Plus Atlanta's not going to let him get away.

If we're going to chase a Hawk, it needs to be Pachulia.

[Marcus Bryant]

I'm not opposed to gambling on a RFA using the MLE, provided the Spurs have found their starting bigman elsewhere (via trade). Yeah, the Hawks would love for Williams to be locked up long term starting at the MLE. I'm with you in spirit though.

[bishopospurs]

Dealing Bonner, Finley and the 2010 1st rounder for Foster
Please god do not give up a first rounder for Foster. Tyrus Thomas would be nice though, but lets keep our first rounders for right now. I think Hermann is a good cheap option as a backup SF if all else fails.

[kace]

Obviously, TP thinks the spurs will go after Wallace or Mc Dyess.

http://www.lequipe.fr/Basket/breves2009/20090704_093654_parker-mon-role-a-grandi.html


he also added that after needing two men (shaq and kobe), then 3 (spurs big 3) to win it all, at least 4 great players seems needed now to win the NBA title. that's why he's happy with the RJ trade and maybe the other Big coming.

[timvp]

^^^ Good find

TP is kept reasonably abreast of roster moves. Hopefully that is a sign that Sheed and McDyess are indeed at the top of the Spurs' list.

[kace]

^^^ Good find

TP is kept reasonably abreast of roster moves. Hopefully that is a sign that Sheed and McDyess are indeed at the top of the Spurs' list.

yes. that would confirm your list of bigmen.

i wonder if TP isn't talking too much about the Spurs, especially in the french media and if he won't be warned by the FO :lol
anyway, it's good for us because all this organisation is so secret usually, including his core players like tim or manu, that it's good to have some news from tony.

i think it's safe to say that he knows for sure that the FO will go after Wallace and Mc Dyess firstly.

[HarlemHeat37]

I love any time Tony talks, dude is so honest..

[Muser]

Dealing Bonner, Finley and the 2010 1st rounder for Foster and then using the MLE and LLE to go after free agents like Childress, Gooden, Powe, Kleiza, Hermann, Nesterovic, Carney, and Hill might not be that exciting, but could very well get the job done. As much as fans think you need to put together a near All-Star lineup to win, I'm not sure. The Spurs need good role players now, guys who don't need the ball to be effective.

If they get a solid starting center in a trade (such as Foster) then they can afford to gamble using their MLE on a restricted free agent such as a Kleiza or Childress. Especially if they can complete the bigman rotation by picking up a Nesterovic or Powe with the LLE.

Of course, they could use their MLE on a 5 like Pachulia and then use the Bonner, Finley, and #1 combo to make a run at a solid 3 for the bench, like a Nocioni.

There's no reason to panic if the Spurs lose out on Wallace. In fact, it may work out for the best if they do...

Great post, agree 100%.

[Spurs Brazil]

Let's hope we can get option 2 now.

Maybe at the end of the day we'll sign Gooden for a 2yrs - $8 million deal

[timvp]

That'd be hilarious if the Spurs wanted Gooden back the whole time and just never mentioned it to keep his value low :lol

McDyess is now far and away the number one option. Wallace and Gortat are off the board. Varejao sounds like he's staying with Cavs. The Nuggets seem to be narrowing in on a contract with Andersen.

Could Brandon Bass be the Spurs' main target all along?

:smchode:

[HarlemHeat37]

The sad part is that I wouldn't be surprised if Bass is the #1 guy..

still..RC and Pop sounded extremely confidence that we would be getting a legit starting big man..I guess the problem will be what they might view as that type of player..

[Spurs Brazil]

That'd be hilarious if the Spurs wanted Gooden back the whole time and just never mentioned it to keep his value low :lol

We heard somw news on every free agent big. The only one that we heard nothing is Gooden. NOTHING

[timvp]

still..RC and Pop sounded extremely confidence that we would be getting a legit starting big manTrue. That confidence was weird if they looked at this as a two dog race. Perhaps they have a group of players they like and will gladly scoop up whichever one doesn't land elsewhere.

[Shastafarian]

True. That confidence was weird if they looked at this as a two dog race. Perhaps they have a group of players they like and will gladly scoop up whichever one doesn't land elsewhere.

http://image.cdnl3.xosnetwork.com/pics22/400/LF/LFHQNGNQWLODUOS.20081014140109.jpg

Let's hope not

[BlackBellamy]

That'd be hilarious if the Spurs wanted Gooden back the whole time and just never mentioned it to keep his value low :lol

McDyess is now far and away the number one option. Wallace and Gortat are off the board. Varejao sounds like he's staying with Cavs. The Nuggets seem to be narrowing in on a contract with Andersen.

Could Brandon Bass be the Spurs' main target all along?

:smchode:

Pachulia?

[objective]

from my version of the list before free agency.

Still available:

McDyess
Pachulia
Javtokas (no longer with Dynamo = no buyout)
Anderson (though unlikely)

McDyess would still be a good offseason. ZaZa would be fair.

Bass or Big Baby would be a waste of MLE.

[Gino2882]

McDyess would make an excellent offseason. Excellent.

[Brazil]

^ If spurs sign Brandon it will be drum & bass time on spurstalk

[vander]

God, the only thing I want less then the one of the old pistons is another offensive-minded, undersized PF. Please no Bass, please no big baby, we already have Blair, if you don't trust his knees, why did you draft him?

[bless1187]

i think i am finally able to understand what Pop means by getting a "4" during his interview. i see Spurs moving T. Duncan to "C" next year, and having a skilled and mobile "4" partnering T. Duncan up front. i think that's probably the reason that Spurs have been reported to be after B. Bass and G. Davis.

[timvp]

McDyess is for sure one now for me. Second? I'm not sure. Bass suddenly doesn't sound that bad compared to Big Baby.

Hopefully we hear either the Spurs are going to narrow in on McDyess or that they will want another bigman of adequate size.

[objective]

Don't forget Zaza.

Bring in Sanikidze for 10/11, then you have yourself a Georgian War Machine.

[venitian navigator]

Looks like the F.O. is leaning toward G. Davis.
I'm still for Gooden + Rasho, 'cause with Haislip, Blair, Bonner (or, maybe, Gist) we don't have 4'rs with size ... wand that can be a defensive problem. Plus I prefer bigs apt to rebound/block shots.
But maye the f.o. still prefer to look more at offence or has seen something I don't see regarding the Glan Davis defensive game...

[CuervoHorn]

Spurs appear to play waiting game on FA front & in doing so leads me to believe that S/T (possible multi-moves ) sign MLE & move w/ existing player/s on roster for their big Man (Krisitic?/Camby?/Gasol?)


fwiw...from DMN


The Mavs have crossed their top two priorities off their free agency checklist, with Jason Kidd deciding to return to Dallas and Marcin Gortat agreeing to accept the Mavs' mid-level exception.
Brandon Bass ought to have next, right? After all, the 24-year-old does represent the Mavs' only reliable frontcourt reserve scorer, and he's proven that he can perform under playoff pressure.
Tony Dutt, Bass' agent, had talked to four teams this morning by the time I called about an hour ago. The Mavs weren't one of them, but Dutt has been in consistent contact with the folks in the Dallas front office.
"We continue to talk to Brandon's agent and hope to work something out," Mark Cuban said.
Dutt is continuing to talk to a lot of other teams, too. He mentioned the Bobcats, Magic, Hornets, Pistons, Blazers and Lakers (if Lamar Odom leaves) as among the possibilities.

No mention of Spurs interest by Bass agent:flag:

[timvp]

^^ Nice find and welcome to the forum.

I wonder if that gives more credence to the Big Big rumors :cry

[CuervoHorn]

Tnks for the welcome TimVP

IMHO the Spurs NON pursuit of Wallace did address a question/concern in pursuing their FA and that obvious answer is TEAM Chemistry.

They want a coachable player who will buy into Spurs program. I personally did not see that fit w/ Rasheed.

The Spurs are targeting their Ring Run for these next 2 YRS and will bring in a NBA ready Big Man (no Splitter) to help TIM

I for one am looking West ...Clipperland (technically 3 centers on roster Kaman/Camby/Jordan) lotta $ tied w/ Camby -35yrs old & Kaman

Interesting to guess how chess board is being played by FO :lobt2:

[DPG21920]

Kaman will be tough to move because of that trade kicker he possesses.

[HarlemHeat37]

Camby really is the best option..hopefully the Clippers would take a 1st round pick to dump him..

[DPG21920]

Camby really is the best option..hopefully the Clippers would take a 1st round pick to dump him..

I do not know if the Spurs will take him. That trade kicker is sick.

[HarlemHeat37]

I do not know if the Spurs will take him. That trade kicker is sick.

Well there aren't many better trade options that could fill a need, probably nobody, so I would hope they take him..if we don't, then the MLE has to be used appropriately, and Big Baby isn't what I mean by appropriately..

[CuervoHorn]

Outside of Gordon & maybe Davis...Clippers will need perimeter shooters to open lanes for Griffin/Kaman

I think we have assests (players)that they may need(w/o giving up picks) to match up Camby expiring $$$. Holt has revealed short term Motivation (Reward Duncan for his loyalty) & is prepared to reasonably open wallet.

As previously mentioned in thread...maybe another team may get involved to secure player &/or $ contract ----Good God Threesome :king

[HarlemHeat37]

Well the fact that Camby is an expiring contract is the problem though..the Clippers need motivation to make an expiring for expiring trade..maybe they view Camby as a mentor for Griffin, who knows..

we'd most certainly have to throw in a 1st rounder, at least IMO..

[CuervoHorn]

Agree HH...it is difficult enuf to attempt to comprehend Clippers moves over last decade. They won less than 20 games lst yr...Griffin will play heavy minutes @ p/f and Kaman avgs 30-32 min with more minutes to be given to their developing C /DeAndre Jordan (12+ min)...Minutes for Camby as backup p/f less than 12 min (my prjection w/ Griffin in fold).

We can trade expring $$$(combo players) to Clips and they can have same $$$ xmig off their books heading into 2010. Good short term need for both teams

[straight out of bren]

Very happy to get your 2nd ranked bigman.Word!