McDonald: Fin expected to return

[El Jefe]

Spurs expect Finley to come back
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/spurs/Spurs_expect_Finley_to_come_back.html
Jeff McDonald - Express-News

The NBA free-agent market opens for business at 11:01 Tuesday night, when all expiring contracts are terminated. The Spurs aren’t expecting to have to stay up quite so late to have their first big free-agency decision made for them.

Though he has yet to officially inform the club of his decision, swingman Michael Finley is expected to exercise his contract option and remain with the Spurs for a fifth season.

Finley, 36, played in 81 games for the Spurs last season, starting all but four. He averaged 9.7 points, while enjoying the most accurate shooting season of his Spurs tenure – hitting 43.7 percent from the field and a career-best 41.1 percent from 3-point range.

Finley, who is due $2.5 million from the Spurs in 2009-2010, could have opted out of the final year of his deal to test the free-agent waters. In a soft market, however, he was unlikely to find a more lucrative contract than the one the Spurs already owed him.

Finley has until 11 p.m. to render his decision final.

If Finley, as expected, elects to return to the Spurs, he will be asked to fill a different role than in previous seasons. Newly acquired forward Richard Jefferson, snagged in a trade with Milwaukee last week, is likely to siphon a good deal of his shots and minutes.

Neither Finley nor his agent, Henry Thomas, could be immediately reached Monday night.

[timvp]

F.

[El Jefe]

To be fair, it doesn't sound like official confirmation. Is it possible that he still opts out?

[lefty]

faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaak

[iilluzioN]

he would be a good backup for RJ, FinDog can hit those 3s, and this year he wil have less pressure to make plays and drive in, all he has to do in play smart D, and shoot.

plus, hes a good vet to have in the locker room

[NewJerSpur]

Please God no.

[Spursmania]

No surprise here.

[Dex]

http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2007/07/do-not-want.jpg

[coyotes_geek]

Sooooo......is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because McDonald expects Fin to return? Or is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because he talked to someone in the know who is saying Fin is expected to return?

[TheDarkSide.]

what happens if Fin comes back? does this affect our MLE and free agent targets?

[SenorSpur]

His should be the first contract the Spurs offer in the next trade. If not, I'm afraid Finley's presence will hinder minutes for a player like Gist and possibly others.

[tomtom]

dammit...

[GSH]

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/ltd73/bluto.gif

[montgod]

Just sounds like McDonald's opinion... not an actual fact.

[MarHill]

F.

Timvp,

No Spurs fan should be surprised by this...if its true.

Would you turn down 2.5 million...to play on a team where they are one of five best teams in the league and have a chance to win it all?

I didn't think so.

Whether you think he's washed up or not.....with the player's option to return it seemed a no-brainer to me.

:flag:

[lefty]

http://submedia.tv/ITE/ITE_Thumbs/ITE_S1_E3.jpg

[Steve-O-Matic]

Might as well start getting on the phone now.

[Dex]

http://blog.internetnews.com/apatrizio/do-not-want-dog.jpg

[SenorSpur]

Timvp,

No Spurs fan should be surprised by this...if its true.

Would you turn down 2.5 million...to play on a team where they are one of five best teams in the league and have a chance to win it all?

I didn't think so.

Whether you think he's washed up or not.....with the player's option to return it seemed a no-brainer to me.

:flag:

I knew my pal MarHill would be on the opposite end of the discussion from me on this. :lol

[Kori Ellis]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

[jaffies]

hope the dude doesn't read Spurstalk threads

[El Jefe]

Sooooo......is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because McDonald expects Fin to return? Or is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because he talked to someone in the know who is saying Fin is expected to return?

Excellent question. The title of the article suggests that it's coming from the Spurs, but he never does come out and give any indication of where this is coming from. Not even an anonymous source.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Trade his ass to the Grizzlies.

F him.

[SouthTexasRancher]

If he stays he'll have to be willing to get very few minutes per game and that could prove to be a disaster for his shooting as he's shown us in the past. If he stays it'll be because he figures the Spurs just might get him Ring #2. I say it is time to move on. We need bigs right now to help us against the Lakers and/or Magic/Cavs.

[lefty]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.tvsquad.com/media/2008/05/the_end.jpg

[MarHill]

His should be the first contract the Spurs offer in the next trade. If not, I'm afraid Finley's presence will hinder minutes for a player like Gist and possibly others.

I believe the Spurs are done with trades unless they get a stupid offer from some team wanting to unload salary like Milwaukee.

The Spurs have already received several gifts this offseason....the other teams DO NOT want to do them any more favors.

Finley is a Spur for his last season!

:flag:

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

The problem is he won't be the 15th man for Pop.

[Dex]

I'm just amused by funny pictures.

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/44/Panda_DO_NOT_WANT.jpg

[Thompson]

Does Finley have a no-trade clause, or can the Spurs trade him if they choose to? I don't hold it against Finley, but I wouldn't mind if we were able to free up his roster spot.

[Kori Ellis]

The problem is he won't be the 15th man for Pop.

Oh.. I think he will. Pop is not going to give him 30 mpg with Richard Jefferson here. And they are obviously on a big youth movement.

[timvp]

Sooooo......is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because McDonald expects Fin to return? Or is McDonald saying Fin is expected to return because he talked to someone in the know who is saying Fin is expected to return?

I'd guess that someone on the Spurs told McDonald that Fin plans to come back. Fin doesn't have any reason to not take the entire allowable time.

I highly doubt this is just McDonald trying to figure out the situation by himself.

[NewJerSpur]

Hopefully this is purely speculation....just too much of a risk he'll be used in a larger capacity than what he should.

[MarHill]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

Kori,

I agree with most of your post.

But with athletes.....it's always about money even for our beloved Spurs.

Would he turn down 2.5 million to not play for the one of the best teams in the league and have an opportunity to win a 2nd ring?

I believe we all know the answer to that question.

Fin is returning!!

[Spursmania]

2.5 million is pretty cheap for a vet like Fin. I, too, really don't think he will play that many minutes given our new acquisitions. Although, I prefer he opt out, realistically, I think most of us knew he would not pass up the money or the opportunity to play for a Championship again.

[Kori Ellis]

Kori,

I agree with most of your post.

But with athletes.....it's always about money even for our beloved Spurs.

Would he turn down 2.5 million to not play for the one of the best teams in the league and have an opportunity to win a 2nd ring?

I believe we all know the answer to that question.

Fin is returning!!

The only reason I think he's leaving is he is in the middle of selling his house. I think he has other plans.

[timtonymanu]

Not a surprise. But Bowen deserves Finley's spot. No more big minutes for Finley. He should be put into a Szczerbiak role.

[MarHill]

Oh.. I think he will. Pop is not going to give him 30 mpg with Richard Jefferson here. And they are obviously on a big youth movement.

I do agree with that Kori!

RJ is the starter and Pop won't change that!!

Fin is coming off the bench for his last season as a Spur. He knows that and I believe he will accept that role.

Now....whether he will be good in that role is a different story!!!! :lol

[jman3000]

I can't wait for him to score 15 points in December and see the whole board orgasm simultaneously.

[Blackjack]

Not shocking at all, if true.


Newly acquired forward Richard Jefferson, snagged in a trade with Milwaukee last week, is likely to siphon a good deal of his shots and minutes.

The fact that McDonald only went as far as to say "likely" to siphon minutes from Jefferson, lead me to think he was understating the obvious, but then I remembered this is Pop.

Jefferson might only be "likely" to siphon a good deal of his shots and minutes and not guarantee to.:(

I don't hate Fin as a reserve and/or designated shooter, or the possibility of his contract becoming an asset come the trade deadline, as long as Pop views/uses him as such.

[Trainwreck2100]

The scariest aspect of this thread is how Duncan 228 got scooped

[Dex]

If Finley can return, provide some spot minutes from the end of the bench, be a leader in the locker room, then great.

Unfortunately, I'd rather see Bowen filling that role, and I don't see the Spurs ponying up for both. I'd be less bothered by Finley resigning if I didn't feel like it was closing the door on Bruce.

[picnroll]

If Finley stays would Pop be willing to trade his expiring contract at the trade deadline to fill a need or would he hold onto Finley out of a sense of loyalty. I'm afraid the latter

[MarHill]

The only reason I think he's leaving is he is in the middle of selling his house. I think he has other plans.

Oh I didn't know that!!

Hmm....interesting!!

I did read today on FoxSports.com that Denver might be interested if he doesn't accept the player option for the Spurs.

[MarHill]

I can't wait for him to score 15 points in December and see the whole board orgasm simultaneously.

:lmao:lmao:lmao:lmao

[lefty]

http://www.demotivationalpics.com/albums/userpics/normal_demotiv_pic_6845-Finsucks.jpghttp://demotivationalpics.com/displayimage.php?pos=-7284

[AFBlue]

The only reason I think he's leaving is he is in the middle of selling his house. I think he has other plans.

Downsizing...stopped getting paid by the Mavs.

[timvp]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed

[NewJerSpur]

Not a surprise. But Bowen deserves Finley's spot. No more big minutes for Finley. He should be put into a Szczerbiak role.

With the team making moves with the offense in mind this offseason it would be nice to give Fin's spot to someone indeed who could shore up our perimeter defense, especially given that G. Hill is the strongest defender we have at the wing in only his 2nd season. Please Fin, you've got your ring, now give up your spot.

[Kori Ellis]

Oh I didn't know that!!

Hmm....interesting!!

I did read today on FoxSports.com that Denver might be interested if he doesn't accept the player option for the Spurs.

Yeah there was another thread about it. Maybe he's just moving within the city but that would be a little odd just for one more season.

[lefty]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over even McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed

Did you mean "this fishing lineup " ?

[Kori Ellis]

Downsizing...stopped getting paid by the Mavs.

The house is already cheap.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed

Exactly. There had to be a counter to the ridiculously good news that ended last week. This is it. Talk about crashing back to earth...

[SenorSpur]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

Because Pop has always demonstrated an incredible amount of misplaced trust in Finley, for whatever reason and no matter how he performed. Whereas, Pop kept most other non-star players on short leashes when they were inconsistent and playing poorly, Pop gave Finley way too much freedom and way too much playing time when he struggled - which was very often.

IMO, I just cannot envisioin Pop relegating him to the end of the bench. Finley will be the primary backup for RJ. Book it!

If I'm correct, that will indeed take minutes away from an up and coming player.

[exstatic]

trade his ass to the grizzlies.

F him.

+1

[Kori Ellis]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed

That would only be the finishing line up if the Spurs struck out in FA/trades for bigs. Pop knows that he's not winning with lineups like that.

[Kori Ellis]

Because Pop has always demonstrated an incredible amount of misplaced trust in Finley, for whatever reason and no matter how he performed. Whereas, Pop kept most other non-star players on short leashes when they were inconsistent and playing poorly, Pop gave Finley way too much freedom and way too much playing time when he struggled - which was very often.

IMO, I just cannot envisioin Pop relegating him to the end of the bench. Finley will be the primary backup for RJ. Book it!

If I'm correct, that will indeed take minutes away from an up and coming player.

I'm booking Manu as the backup for RJ.

[El Jefe]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

Agreed that he's been nothing but a stand up guy during his Spurs tenure (and even well before that) I have nothing against Finley the person.

But I almost don't want Pop to even be tempted by him. At some point Hill, or Hairston, or Williams, or any young kid they give a shot at significant time next year is going to screw up something on the court. And there at the end of the bench, waiting like a professional, is the guy with the nicest looking jumpshot on the team.

He just doesn't have the legs to keep up anymore. It's a damn shame, but it happens.

[jman3000]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed

That's pretty much the most depressing post I've ever read.

*pops a zoloft*

[MarHill]

If Fin returns, I can see this finishing lineup:

C Duncan
PF Finley
SF Jefferson
SG Ginobili
PG Parker

As good as the other four players are on the court, Finley would single-handedly ruin it. The only big who I think Pop would trust more than Finley at the end of games is Rasheed. I think Pop would even play Finley over McDyess. No question Pop would play Finley over players like Gortat or Pachulia at the end of games.

:depressed


Timvp,

I have always respected your opinion and this forum you and Kori have put together.

But I think you are going off the deep end about Finley. Just a little....

If he does come back....Finley will be deep on the bench.

I believe Pop (and maybe I'm giving him more credit than you are) has told him what his role is if he comes back.

Will he come off the bench is some spots to close out games...yes!!

But not as much as you think!!!

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

The moment Mason gets inconsistent, Finley will turn into Manu's backup.

Or worse, we'll trade Mason and Finley will be Manu's backup and get 20-25 minutes a game. :shootme

[lefty]

http://www.demotivationalpics.com/albums/userpics/normal_demotiv_pic_6845-Finsucks.jpg

[NewJerSpur]

I know this is a redundant question, but when can the verdict officially be passed?

[Kori Ellis]

The moment Mason gets inconsistent, Finley will turn into Manu's backup.

Or worse, we'll trade Mason and Finley will be Manu's backup and get 20-25 minutes a game. :shootme

I'm not sold that Mason will even be here.

[MarHill]

The moment Mason gets inconsistent, Finley will turn into Manu's backup.

Or worse, we'll trade Mason and Finley will be Manu's backup and get 20-25 minutes a game. :shootme

Mason is not going anywhere.....

Fin is coming back to the ire of Spurs fans!! :lmao

[ElNono]

I think this pretty much seals the deal with Bowen if true.
Farewell Bruce! You will be missed!

[SenorSpur]

The only reason I think he's leaving is he is in the middle of selling his house. I think he has other plans.

I will offer this. Finley is a very, proud man. If he gets the feeling that he's not wanted, he may very well leave.

[El Jefe]

I'm not sold that Mason will even be here.

You think it's likely another trade is brewing? I thought RC said something about being done with trades, and turning to free agency now.

Of course, that's just what he WANTS us to think....

[Kori Ellis]

You think it's likely another trade is brewing? I thought RC said something about being done with trades, and turning to free agency now.

Of course, that's just what he WANTS us to think....

RC didn't say that as far as I heard.

And yes, I think they'll be another trade this summer.

[MarHill]

I'm not sold that Mason will even be here.

Kori,

What gives you that impression Mason will be traded?

I thought Spurs were happy with him most of the season.

Yes, I know he didn't play well in the playoffs.

However, I believe Pop went too far in putting him as the backup PG. I believe with RJ and Tony on the wing...he will get better shots this season.

And he's not afraid to take a big shot in a big spot.

[exstatic]

:lmao lefty, FTW...

http://www.demotivationalpics.com/albums/userpics/normal_demotiv_pic_6845-Finsucks.jpghttp://demotivationalpics.com/displayimage.php?pos=-7284

[loveforthegame]

If Finley stays would Pop be willing to trade his expiring contract at the trade deadline to fill a need or would he hold onto Finley out of a sense of loyalty. I'm afraid the latter

I think the Spurs would trade a combination of Finley, Mason, and Bonner if it was a no brainer.

But unless that player(s) is an impact player or has an expiring contract this season I don't think the Spurs make any more trades.

While those 3 contracts would be tempting for teams looking to shed salary this season it could be just as tempting for the Spurs to let them run off the books after this season.

[NewJerSpur]

Money Ma$e will be back, and if not I'll eat a boatload of crow. I just hope Bowen returns as well and Fin exits.

[lefty]

:lmao lefty, FTW...
:toast

[barbacoataco]

The Spurs have Ginobili, Jefferson, Mason and Finley for the 2/3 spot. If Gist gets minutes it will be because he can defend players that are too big, strong or effective for Finley. If Gist is really capable of doing that, I'm sure Pop will give him the chance.

I like Finley as a 10-15 mpg player as long as she shoots at or close to 40% 3ptrs. he also is an expiring contract and could be useful in a trade package.

[Budkin]

It's time to hang em up Fin.

[MarHill]

I will offer this. Finley is a very, proud man. If he gets the feeling that he's not wanted, he may very well leave.

SenorSpur,

Just because some Spurs fans doesn't want him.....

FO may still want him and he gets free money!!!!!!

[Kori Ellis]

Kori,

What gives you that impression Mason will be traded?

I thought Spurs were happy with him most of the season.

Yes, I know he didn't play well in the playoffs.

However, I believe Pop went too far in putting him as the backup PG. I believe with RJ and Tony on the wing...he will get better shots this season.

And he's not afraid to take a big shot in a big spot.

They tried to trade him in a package for Vince Carter right before they got RJefferson. I just think he's a tradeable asset ... not that he's horrible. I also think his atrocious D in the postseason didn't do him any favors.

[Spursfan092120]

http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/donotwant.jpg

[SenorSpur]

SenorSpur,

Just because some Spurs fans doesn't want him.....

FO may still want him and he gets free money!!!!!!

I was referring to Finley getting the hint direct from the FO, not Spurs fans. We don't count.

[MarHill]

I was referring to Finley getting the hint direct from the FO, not Spurs fans. We don't count.

I know....

I know.....

I was just needling you!!!

:lol

[loveforthegame]

I think Kori is the closest with predictions.

I think Ginobli gets the minutes behind Jefferson allowing more time for Hill.

I think Mason and Bonner will be packaged if possible.

[NewJerSpur]

They tried to trade him in a package for Vince Carter right before they got RJefferson. I just think he's a tradeable asset ... not that he's horrible. I also think his atrocious D in the postseason didn't do him any favors.

His defense heavily sagged midway through the season, but hopefully that changes in '09...either way we've kept gunners with less than stellar defense on championship teams in past season (hence the guy at the center of this post). Would be cool to see Hill and Mase (NJ's trade targets) wind up playing with Jefferson after all because of a trade....one that didn't involve them. Come on back Bruce!!!

[TheProfessor]

Surely someone wants a veteran who shoots over 40% from three and a little cap relief at the end of the season.

[SenorSpur]

They tried to trade him in a package for Vince Carter right before they got RJefferson. I just think he's a tradeable asset ... not that he's horrible. I also think his atrocious D in the postseason didn't do him any favors.

Didn't they know that when the got him? Unless, of course, somehow Pop misjudged Mason's defensive abilities. After all, he was the one who thought Mason would thrive as a backup PG. At any rate, I'd be concerned with them giving up on the guy so soon - unless of course, they can obtain an upgrade.

I feel the same way about them trying to ship out G Hill by way of a trade package, when the rook had only played a half a season. Again, Pop didn't think the rook was ready for prime time - turns out he was.

[timvp]

If Fin is coming back, Spurs fans better get out their rosary beads and pray that Sheed signs. I'm pretty damn sure Pop will use Finley as his PF closer in any other situation. Pop always goes with shooters on the court down the stretch and he trusts Finley's shot as much as anyone's on the team.

I'd like to believe that Pop knows Finley should be sitting on the bench in crunch time ... but this past season I saw Pop put Finley on the court at the end of games even when Finley had been sitting for a long time and had been sucking. When the clock strikes four minutes, Finley would almost always enter the game.











Please sign, Sheed.

[SenorSpur]

Remember Pop chose Finley over Bowen, when it was Bowen who was the most productive wing player versus the Mavs in the playoffs.

[Ice009]

Kori,

What gives you that impression Mason will be traded?

I thought Spurs were happy with him most of the season.

Yes, I know he didn't play well in the playoffs.

However, I believe Pop went too far in putting him as the backup PG. I believe with RJ and Tony on the wing...he will get better shots this season.

And he's not afraid to take a big shot in a big spot.

Defense. I think if Mason Jr is traded it's because of defensive reasons. I really started getting on RMJ about his defense around January or so when everyone else was still talking about his offense.

I really like Roger, but I don't know if I'd even want him on the court at the end of the game with his defense being so poor.

[El Jefe]

RC didn't say that as far as I heard.

And yes, I think they'll be another trade this summer.

I thought I heard him say it, but I can't find where. I must be creating my own false memories.

[Ice009]

They tried to trade him in a package for Vince Carter right before they got RJefferson. I just think he's a tradeable asset ... not that he's horrible. I also think his atrocious D in the postseason didn't do him any favors.

Exactly Kori. His D is too poor for him to be in any of my crunch time line ups. If he stays on the team I'd have Roger out there mainly for offensive reasons in the first, second, third quarters and maybe at the start of the 4th for a few minutes, but other than that I don't think he is good enough on D to be out there in the 4th.

He really has to improve his D, but I don't know if he has the physical tools to do so?

btw do you think the Spurs wanted Carter more Kori? Any idea what happened with that trade? Was the RJ one available before then or did the Spurs look at other trades because the Nets asked for too much?

[jason1301]

he would be a good backup for RJ, FinDog can hit those 3s, and this year he wil have less pressure to make plays and drive in, all he has to do in play smart D, and shoot.

plus, hes a good vet to have in the locker room

I can't agree more!

[SenorSpur]

Defense. I think if Mason Jr is traded it's because or defensive reasons. I really started getting on RMJ about his defense around January or so when everyone else was still talking about his offense.

I really like Roger, but I don't know if I'd even want him on the court at the end of the game with his defense being so poor.

Finley's defense is just as poor, probably worse - and his shooting is even streakier. Yet he's on the court at crunch time. It's pointless to expose RMJ's flaws, when Finley's on-court presence is counterproductive.

[loveforthegame]

I like to think the Spurs learned from their mistakes. A couple signs of that is the trade for Jefferson and the move to get younger.

The idea that they're willing to pay the LT if it means making this team a contender for the last couple years of Duncan/Ginobli's careers.

[50 cent]

Hopefully we can package he and Bonner's expiring deal for something. Pietrus? Raja Bell?

[NewJerSpur]

Defense. I think if Mason Jr is traded it's because or defensive reasons. I really started getting on RMJ about his defense around January or so when everyone else was still talking about his offense.

I really like Roger, but I don't know if I'd even want him on the court at the end of the game with his defense being so poor.

If the defense around a shooter is strong and also solid at the rim, you can live with trade-off IMO. If you sub Bowen for Fin I think that task is accomplished.

[Ice009]

Finley's defense is just as poor, probably worse - and his shooting is even streakier. Yet he's on the court at crunch time. It's pointless to expose RMJ's flaws, when Finley's on-court presence is counterproductive.

Ok man that was last season. I DO NOT think either of them will be this season. I think Pop has smartened up.

[loveforthegame]

I think the reason Mason's defense is pointed out more than Finley's is because he wasn't even guarding the other teams best player.

Of course Finley was going to look like a clown having to guard Lebron, Durant, Pierce, Howard, and so on.

[NewJerSpur]

Finley's defense is just as poor, probably worse - and his shooting is even streakier. Yet he's on the court at crunch time. It's pointless to expose RMJ's flaws, when Finley's on-court presence is counterproductive.

:tu

[Das Texan]

Finley was supposed to be the fifth wing last year and we know how well that ended up.


There is no chance in hell Finley would be the 15th man as long as Pop is calling the shots.

[SenorSpur]

Ok man that was last season. I DO NOT think either of them will be this season. I think Pop has smartened up.

Let's clasp our hands, click our heels, and pray that this is the case.

[NewJerSpur]

I think the reason Mason's defense is pointed out more than Finley's is because he wasn't even guarding the other teams best player.

Of course Finley was going to look like a clown having to guard Lebron, Durant, Pierce, Howard, and so on.

All the more reason to upgrade the defense at that position on the wing.

EDIT: That position being Finley's.

[picnroll]

Maybe Fin's house is on the market because he, Spurs and some other team have worked out a pre-arranged trade where he'll play for them or retire with the cash. :praying

[Cant_Be_Faded]

There is absolutely nothing that Finley can bring this team that Bowen can't.

[Udokafan05]

http://blog.internetnews.com/apatrizio/do-not-want-dog.jpg

I almost spit water all over the computer when i saw that picture. Suprisingly, there have been several funny pictures in thread.

[loveforthegame]

There is absolutely nothing that Finley can bring this team that Bowen can't.

I don't think anyone is arguing that.

While many will blame Finley (if he stays) for Bruce not returning I don't think that's the case. The Spurs are clearly moving forward and if they can dump Finley for the right price they will. Just like they did Bowen.

Otherwise, I think the move forward will continue next summer when Mason, Finley, and Bonner's contracts will be off the books. Again, assuming none of those 3 are traded.

I just don't see any team willing to give anything up to the Spurs for a Finley/Bonner combo. Maybe a Mason/Bonner combo.

[rayray2k8]

I don't mind keeping the "veteran" on our team, but not for the 2.5 mil that he's picking up.
Maybe he opts out and signs for the minimum?
That possible?

[EricB]

I wouldn't turn down 2.5 million either.

Duncans happy too, he loves Fin.

[NewJerSpur]

I don't think anyone is arguing that.

While many will blame Finley (if he stays) for Bruce not returning I don't think that's the case. The Spurs are clearly moving forward and if they can dump Finley for the right price they will. Just like they did Bowen.

Otherwise, I think the move forward will continue next summer when Mason, Finley, and Bonner's contracts will be off the books. Again, assuming none of those 3 are traded.

I just don't see any team willing to give anything up to the Spurs for a Finley/Bonner combo. Maybe a Mason/Bonner combo.

It's not that the 2 moves directly correlate (Bowen's trade/Finley's return) but Mike would be linked with Bruce from the standpoint that one was sent packing (presuming he doesn't return this season) though he provides the team with a greater asset while the other is re-signed with possibly a larger role than he deserves within the same offseason.

[timvp]

I wouldn't turn down 2.5 million either.

Duncans happy too, he loves Fin.

I doubt Duncan will like Finley much when Duncan is playing center and Finley is at power forward.

[EricB]

I think he's done.

I don't think he's got anything left in the tank.

I wish he wouldn't have picked up the option, but I can see why he would.

I would definately try to package him and Bonner and get something of use for him.


Heres the onlything I say.

Don't rip on Finley for picking it up. Its not like its a TEAM option. Its HIS option. It wasn't his fault it was put in his contract last year.

[EricB]

I doubt Duncan will like Finley much when Duncan is playing center and Finley is at power forward.


He's done it for 4 years, if he was gonna not like him for that reason he would've started a long time ago.

[KenGee21]

Nothing against the guy, but go away already...still remembering those horrific games he had against OKC last year.

I think he had some ridiculous stat-line like 3 for 10, 7pts & 2 Ast, while playing damn near 40 min. and getting burned by anyone he guarded....class act human-being, but 'DUN' as a player IMO.

[Taking it to the Hole]

We do have to consider the source of this story. I wouldn't be surprised if tomorrow he opts out and we have another classic McDonald blunder.

[Russ]

Finley! :)

[MoSpur]

Please trade him if he opts to stay!!!!

[EricB]

If him and Bonner are traded, people around here are gonna shit.

Their two favorite punching bags are gonna be gone.

[timvp]

He's done it for 4 years, if he was gonna not like him for that reason he would've started a long time ago.Horry used to get those minutes. Finley getting those minutes = disaster.

If Fin re-ups, the Spurs have a Need for Sheed.

[loveforthegame]

I'm surprised how many of you think the Spurs could get something of use for a package involving Finley/Bonner.

I'm sure the Spurs will be open to anything involving a combo of Finley, Mason, Bonner. But I stand by that I think those expring contracts are of more use to the Spurs than anything they could get in return.

[MoSpur]

The scariest aspect of this thread is how Duncan 228 got scooped

True that. :wow

[EricB]

Horry used to get those minutes. Finley getting those minutes = disaster.

If Fin re-ups, the Spurs have a Need for Sheed.


Fin played some small ball in 2007 against the Nuggets.

Yeah that worked out horribly.

While I agree Finley playing small forward is bad, again, the bitching about it should be directed at the coach, not the player.

[MoSpur]

I'm surprised how many of you think the Spurs could get something of use for a package involving Finley/Bonner.

I'm sure the Spurs will be open to anything involving a combo of Finley, Mason, Bonner. But I stand by that I think those expring contracts are of more use to the Spurs than anything they could get in return.

There are teams looking to dump salaries.

Did you think a package of Bowen, Thomas, and Oberto could get you Richard Jefferson?

[EricB]

I'm surprised how many of you think the Spurs could get something of use for a package involving Finley/Bonner.

I'm sure the Spurs will be open to anything involving a combo of Finley, Mason, Bonner. But I stand by that I think those expring contracts are of more use to the Spurs than anything they could get in return.


Their useless due to Jefferson coming.

Ending contracts would be usefull to someone like New York, Cleveland, whoever.

[Flux451]

remember that time fin hit a buzzer beater to take the game to overtime

[lurker23]

I personally think we need Finley and/or Bowen to come back for the sake of our depth.

Let's assume for a minute that neither Finley or Bowen were to come back; how would the 2/3 minutes be distributed? 96 minutes, plus let's assume 5 minutes of RJ at small ball, so 101 total minutes.

Jefferson: 35 minutes
Mason: 28
Ginobili: 28
Hill: 10

What happens if Mason or Ginobili get hurt? Who do you rely on for minutes to fill the gaps? Hairston? Williams? McClinton? Gist?

[loveforthegame]

If him and Bonner are traded, people around here are gonna shit.

Their two favorite punching bags are gonna be gone.

Mason would move to the front of the line.



We do have to consider the source of this story. I wouldn't be surprised if tomorrow he opts out and we have another classic McDonald blunder.

Wouldn't be all that surprising. While he didn't state any sources, I still got the feeling he talked to someone in the know.

[EricB]

Mason would move to the front of the line.




Wouldn't be all that surprising. While he didn't state any sources, I still got the feeling he talked to someone in the know.


Hmmm.

I dunno. he sure gained alot of fandom with his game winners.

Would be hard to see.

I take it back, Pop would take it all thats easy to see now.

[timvp]

Fin played some small ball in 2007 against the Nuggets.

Yeah that worked out horribly.Uh, Horry was the power forward to close out those games. In fact, I don't remember any small ball in that series. Elson started next to Duncan while Oberto and Horry got relatively big minutes off of the bench.

[NewJerSpur]

I personally think we need Finley and/or Bowen to come back for the sake of our depth.

Let's assume for a minute that neither Finley or Bowen were to come back; how would the 2/3 minutes be distributed? 96 minutes, plus let's assume 5 minutes of RJ at small ball, so 101 total minutes.

Jefferson: 35 minutes
Mason: 28
Ginobili: 28
Hill: 10

What happens if Mason or Ginobili get hurt? Who do you rely on for minutes to fill the gaps? Hairston? Williams? McClinton? Gist?

I'm for Bowen (primarily) or whichever of the youngsters has the best defensive upside. Finley should be viewed as primarily depth at this point, but the fear is that his role may still be significant even without an injury.

[MannyIsGod]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

I honestly don't understand it either. I think Finely's done fine in his time here. Its not his fault Pop plays him too much. I don't understand the hate directed at him at all. Direct it at the man who plays him far too much.

[loveforthegame]

I don't see the Spurs dishing out money on Jefferson, Wallace or McDyess just so they can find more minutes for Finley.

[jcrod]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

Completely agree.

[EricB]

Uh, Horry was the power forward to close out those games. In fact, I don't remember any small ball in that series. Elson started next to Duncan while Oberto and Horry got relatively big minutes off of the bench.


:lol

Ok fine.

Again though, being pissed at Finley is again misguided.

but he made more money than Tim Duncan and David Robinson so therefore = Evil.

[EricB]

If Finley does pick up his option I honestly have no idea one way or the other if the Spurs shop the pick.

I think Bonner is gonna be shopped, MAYBE Mason ( i hope not I'm hoping he starts) but Finley, I just don't know.

If he is, with Bonner's 3.5, that gets 6.

You might get Posey for that, but there you are again, do you have room for him? I think so.


I just don't know what teams are wanting 6 million and what you'd get in return.

[objective]

Finley coming back would be a disaster.

At best, even if Pop doesn't pull his Fin-love routine, Finley STILL is going to retard the growth of whatever young player they have at the wing (be it Gist, Hairston, M.Williams, Sanikidze, Hill in smallball) by keeping them off the court.

Worse still it will be much harder for the Spurs to fairly judge the place those players might have with the Spurs in the future. They'll go into next offseason not knowing what they really have with the young guys, whoever they are. And Pop will have the perfect excuse to REFUSE to give them a chance in the playoffs because they 'won't be ready/have enough experience'. And they won't have that experience because Finley will still be hogging time.

Finley can't play forever people. I realize some people on this board would love to give him a lifetime contract and delude themselves into thinking he'd be very solid in 15 minutes off the bench when he's 55 years old. But Finley = Fail. Nothing against him, he's no doubt a great person. But on the court he's a disaster.

[jcrod]

I honestly don't understand it either. I think Finely's done fine in his time here. Its not his fault Pop plays him too much. I don't understand the hate directed at him at all. Direct it at the man who plays him far too much.

Agree here also and I think Pop learned his lesson.

[EricB]

Agree here also and I think Pop learned his lesson.


Yeah Pop has been 100% "new direction" since after game 5.

Glad to see me and Manny agree.

[timvp]

I honestly don't understand it either. I think Finely's done fine in his time here. Its not his fault Pop plays him too much. I don't understand the hate directed at him at all. Direct it at the man who plays him far too much.The only way Finley won't play too much is if: 1) He's not on the team 2) Pop is fired.

Two isn't going to happen so one is the only hope.

[td4mvp21]

:pctoss :pctoss

[NewJerSpur]

Again, glad this news isn't OFFICIAL. Fin, you've got your ring and money, do what's best for the team and opt out, please.

[Mr. Body]

Jeesy-creezy, what's with the hate? He played a lot last year because we had shit-all-else at the position. Who expected him to turn down this money? We can trade him, whatever. He can sit the bench, play bench minutes. He's still better than Hairston at this point.

[Cheeto]

:lol

Ok fine.

Again though, being pissed at Finley is again misguided.

but he made more money than Tim Duncan and David Robinson so therefore = Evil.

Are you serious? You blame the guy for making more money than DRob & TD? He & or his agent asked for a certain amount of money & FO's paid it. They're the evil ones for paying up. If you had the chance to make bank like that, you know you'd do it. I know I would.

I don't mind Fin coming back. I'm worried about Manu getting hurt again & needing some scoring. Yeah Fin's D is real suspect, but his offensive game isn't gone. He's a good leader & IMO a respectable guy. If they trade him, so be it. He's done some good in his time w/ the Spurs.

[HarlemHeat37]

All I'm going to say..

Mason and Finley play the same way..we don't have room for both..one of them has to be moved to make room for a guy with a different skill-set..I'd obviously rather have Roger, but he would probably bring in a better player in a trade..

Finley would be good on a younger team, as a veteran presence that could come in once in a while for some shooting..he won't be good on this team, because the coach uses him in a much bigger role than he can successfully play..

Michael Finley is ONLY good when he's hot..that's it..he doesn't have a middle-ground, he's either hot or cold..when he isn't making shots at a consistent rate, he hurts the team..bad shot selection, horrible passer, can't rebound, can't play defense..

[texasqb2]

I never really post on here, but had to throw my 2 cents in here....

I can't believe you guys wouldn't be excited to have Michael Finley back on this team. I never have seen so much hypocrisy. The same people who are saying let's start the youth movement are the same ones wanting Sheed and also Bowen to return. Then there are some of you who really want to go young and want guys like that big stiff Orlando has come off the bench who can't play.

Wake up board...we have a short window to capitalize and we need the players to help us win NOW. Finley is a great player off the bench and a great team player behind the scenes. I would be thrilled if we get someone who can knock down shots like Finley for 2.5 million and it doesn't affect our MLE. Finley has always been a solid player, but everyone here on the board was expecting the young superstar version of him. He can help us win a title next year and that's all that matters.

I'd much rather see Finley in there when it matters over a player like Gist, Williams, Hairston, or whoever else you guys are upset that he will mess up their development. Timmy doesn't have the time for this to happen....

[HarlemHeat37]

Sorry, but Michael Finley isn't a significant piece for "win now" mode..

I don't care about Finley's age, I care about his lack of remaining ability..

[texasqb2]

All I'm going to say..

Michael Finley is ONLY good when he's hot..that's it..he doesn't have a middle-ground, he's either hot or cold..when he isn't making shots at a consistent rate, he hurts the team..bad shot selection, horrible passer, can't rebound, can't play defense..


A bad passer? Really? Do you watch any Spur games?

[Mr. Body]

I never really post on here, but had to throw my 2 cents in here....

I can't believe you guys wouldn't be excited to have Michael Finley back on this team. I never have seen so much hypocrisy. The same people who are saying let's start the youth movement are the same ones wanting Sheed and also Bowen to return. Then there are some of you who really want to go young and want guys like that big stiff Orlando has come off the bench who can't play.

There's a lot of groupthink along with scapegoating in this thread. Finley is suddenly the worst player to don a Spurs outfit.

[timvp]

It's hilarious that this thread is playing out like last year's thread about Finley re-signing (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103083). So many Spurs fans were convinced that Finley would be used as a deep reserve and that Pop had learned his lesson in playing him too much. What happened? Finley played more than ever.

If Pop can bench a Spurs legend who had been named to the All-Defensive team for the last eight years or whatever it was to make room for Finley, he'll find a way once again. If you could guarantee that Finley would take a Steve Smith 2003 role, I'd be fine with him coming back. But if he's part of the rotation at all this coming season, I don't think the team wins a championship. Finley is just too horrible at defense, too soft and too much of a volume shooter who gets cold at the absolute wrong times.

[HarlemHeat37]

Michael Finley is one of the worst passers I've ever seen..I'm wrong??..he's easily the worst inbounds passer I've ever seen, dude belongs on the Nuggets..

[texasqb2]

It's hilarious that this thread is playing out like last year's thread about Finley re-signing (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103083). So many Spurs fans were convinced that Finley would be used as a deep reserve and that Pop had learned his lesson in playing him too much. What happened? Finley played more than ever.

If Pop can bench a Spurs legend who had been named to the All-Defensive team for the last eight years or whatever it was to make room for Finley, he'll find a way once again. If you could guarantee that Finley would take a Steve Smith 2003 role, I'd be fine with him coming back. But if he's part of the rotation at all this coming season, I don't think the team wins a championship. Finley is just too horrible at defense, too soft and too much of a volume shooter who gets cold at the absolute wrong times.


I agree somewhat with what you are saying, but Bruce was obviously not very valuable to us with Manu out and Tim hurting. We needed offense down the stretch and Mike at least gave us that. I don't think with 4 healthy scorers on our team, we'd need Mike to play as big of a role as he had to last year. I still like him in our locker room and still think he's a bargain at $2.5 million.

[objective]

I'd much rather see Finley in there when it matters over a player like Gist, Williams, Hairston, or whoever else you guys are upset that he will mess up their development. Timmy doesn't have the time for this to happen....

Finley in when it matters at this stage of his career = LOSS. If you want to see Tim Duncan lose in 09-10 and be wondering what kind of pieces you have to work with for 10-11 then Finley is the man for you.

He's significantly worse than he was even in the playoffs of 08, when he hit the end of 4th three against PHX in game 1.

He'll be even worse by the coming playoffs. He's completely finished. He'll do what he's been doing as a finished player, have hot and cold streaks where the cold streaks are getting longer and longer. And that's ignoring his awful defense where he straight up can not cover perimeter players anymore. And he can't defend the post either.

[NewJerSpur]

I never really post on here, but had to throw my 2 cents in here....

I can't believe you guys wouldn't be excited to have Michael Finley back on this team. I never have seen so much hypocrisy. The same people who are saying let's start the youth movement are the same ones wanting Sheed and also Bowen to return. Then there are some of you who really want to go young and want guys like that big stiff Orlando has come off the bench who can't play.

Wake up board...we have a short window to capitalize and we need the players to help us win NOW. Finley is a great player off the bench and a great team player behind the scenes. I would be thrilled if we get someone who can knock down shots like Finley for 2.5 million and it doesn't affect our MLE. Finley has always been a solid player, but everyone here on the board was expecting the young superstar version of him. He can help us win a title next year and that's all that matters.

I'd much rather see Finley in there when it matters over a player like Gist, Williams, Hairston, or whoever else you guys are upset that he will mess up their development. Timmy doesn't have the time for this to happen....

1) Bowen I could understand trumping the immediate youth movement one more season at the wing because he provides great one-on-one, pontentially stifling defense along with some clutch shooting from behind the arc.

2) Gortat played a nice role in helping his team reach the NBA Finals, especially when their All-Star Center was in foul trouble or suspended.

3) The team is already making strides offensively and shouldn't be in dire need of Finley's streaky shooting like they were for stretches of last year's injury-riddled season when we can get that from other sources but need better defense from the wing.

[Mr. Body]

Two teams needing shooting guards, and possibly veteran help: Minnesota, Toronto.

This would put players like Corey Brewer, Craig Smith, and, uh, crap all from the Raptors, if Finley were dangled. What other teams might want him?

[spurtilldeath]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.


I totally agree. For all that we know, he would be a good backup to RJ. Having a veteran like him playing spot minutes is important to ensure proper transition to the next generation. Also, I hope people remember his clutch 3 pointers during the end of season to make us the south west division winner.

[timvp]

Two teams needing shooting guards, and possibly veteran help: Minnesota, Toronto.

This would put players like Corey Brewer, Craig Smith, and, uh, crap all from the Raptors, if Finley were dangled. What other teams might want him?Why would the T'Wolves want Finley? You expect them to make the playoff run?

I don't think anyone takes Finley unless the Spurs take back a bad contract or they ship Finley with an asset.

[Obstructed_View]

Though I obviously don't want him to start or get big minutes, I don't get why many of you guys hate him staying. If he stays, consider him the 15th man who will get some spot minutes. He's not going to eat into Manu/RJ's playing time. He's a good guy and the Spurs/Pop/Duncan all seem to like him A LOT. So, I see no problem with him sitting at the end of the bench.

That being said, I still think he might leave.

Wow, you don't know Popovich very well, do you?

[timtonymanu]

Finley was supposed to be the fifth wing last year and we know how well that ended up.


There is no chance in hell Finley would be the 15th man as long as Pop is calling the shots.

i think the result of that was that there wasnt another option. Udoka choked when he was called to start. Bowen wont give you alot offensively. Finley was the best option to go last year. sadly that's how much of a joke the roster was last year.

[Mr. Body]

Why would the T'Wolves want Finley? You expect them to make the playoff run?

I don't think anyone takes Finley unless the Spurs take back a bad contract or they ship Finley with an asset.

They've said many times that they need some veterans on the squad. Everyone of importance on the team has only been around for 3-5 years, and none of them winning years. A couple sturdy vet would show them how to comport themselves and change the franchise's attitude.

Good enough for you?

[timvp]

They've said many times that they need some veterans on the squad. Everyone of importance on the team has only been around for 3-5 years, and none of them winning years. A couple sturdy vet would show them how to comport themselves and change the franchise's attitude.

Good enough for you?Not really. Finley isn't going to be someone who is happy to get traded to NBA Siberia and take a bunch of youngsters under his wing. And the T'Wolves certainly aren't going to give you Corey Brewer in return.

You might be able to trade Finley to a desperate contending team who needs a shooter .... or trade him a la Beno. Then again, the last time the Spurs desperately wanted to dump a player who had $2.5 million left on his contract, they did the Scola trade.

[Obstructed_View]

I betcha Pop finds a way to juggle the lineup to have Finley start at some point.

[Bruno]

Having both Mason and Finley seems quite useless to me. I think one should be traded and I rather see Spurs keeping Mason (even if he is more expensive).

The perfect scenario would be that Spurs have a trade in the works with Finley and Finley has picked his option because he is fine with the team where he will be traded or the team that get him will waive him.

[Solid D]

Pop likes Fin for his leadership in the room to help/keep up with the young guys. I've got him on the roster, unless he's traded.

[Borosai]

Cock.

[Mr. Body]

Not really. Finley isn't going to be someone who is happy to get traded to NBA Siberia and take a bunch of youngsters under his wing. And the T'Wolves certainly aren't going to give you Corey Brewer in return.

You might be able to trade Finley to a desperate contending team who needs a shooter .... or trade him a la Beno. Then again, the last time the Spurs desperately wanted to dump a player who had $2.5 million left on his contract, they did the Scola trade.

By that rationale Finley won't be happy to go anywhere. My scenario is deeply speculative -- he's staying in SAS -- but he's enough of a professional to settle into a new locker room. He's not an asshole, if that's what you're insinuating.

As for Brewer, the guy makes way too much money. I'll be interested to see if Minny picks up his option.

[HarlemHeat37]

You better add Finley to your depth chart Borosai..make sure to have a Kleenex to wipe the tears as you do it..I'm crying with you..

[objective]

Just checking the numbers real quick for the people who insist that Pop will limit Finley's minutes to 10 or 12 or make him the 15th man(!) or whatever because of Jefferson.

Ignoring the first 3 games of each of Manu's playing stretches to give him time to work himself back into shape, by my count that left 38 games where Finley and Manu played together. Mason played all 82 games. Bowen and Udoka and the d-league scrubs were also available.

Finley still averaged about 28 minutes a game unless I duplicated numbers on the calculator or made some similar mistake, it was a quick count. But 28 minutes a game. And that's with Manu on the court.

And he averaged in the playoffs . . . about 28 minutes a game. So for those posters who insist that "Oh! Finley only played that much in the playoffs because Manu was hurt! He wouldn't have played at all if Manu was healthy!" . . .

Unless my math is wrong, that's the same he played in the regular season! Pop will find ways to get Finley on the court. Small, big, it doesn't matter.

Manu last season averaged the fewest minutes per game of his career except his rookie season. I've little doubt the Spurs will be extra cautious next year and his minutes will actually decrease to no more than 25.

There will be room made for Finley. Don't act surprised when Finley is giving up drive after drive, post-score after post-score, lost rebound after lost rebound, and shoots brick after brick in 20 mpg in the playoffs.

[EricB]

Having both Mason and Finley seems quite useless to me. I think one should be traded and I rather see Spurs keeping Mason (even if he is more expensive).

The perfect scenario would be that Spurs have a trade in the works with Finley and Finley has picked his option because he is fine with the team where he will be traded or the team that get him will waive him.


Interesting.

Doubt you can get much for him, but I'm 100% for it if you can get Bonner mixed in.

[Mr. Body]

I pretty much agree with Bruno. You should get rid of Mason or Finley, but it will probably be Mason. Eh.

[Sean Cagney]

Finley still can hit that super clutch shot as proven, he is good in spots. With alot of mins HELL NO (Like he has gotten), but at the end of games yeah he can stay.

[Obstructed_View]

There will be room made for Finley. Don't act surprised when Finley is giving up drive after drive, post-score after post-score, lost rebound after lost rebound, and shoots brick after brick in 20 mpg in the playoffs.

QFT. The worst part of Finley isn't that Pop puts him in the game, but that Pop never pulls him out even when his guy is lighting up the entire team. Remember, Fin's a guy who scored 20 and was still -18 for the game.

[EricB]

You better add Finley to your depth chart Borosai..make sure to have a Kleenex to wipe the tears as you do it..I'm crying with you..


God grow up people.

You act like they are adding Jack haley for christ sakes.

[DMX7]

I want him to stay.

[EricB]

I pretty much agree with Bruno. You should get rid of Mason or Finley, but it will probably be Mason. Eh.

I doubt either one goes.

[Libri]

I betcha Pop finds a way to juggle the lineup to have Finley start at some point.

Since the Spurs still haven't found a big man and if Pop still thinks that Finley should start, then as of now the starting lineup looks something like this:

Matt Bonner C
Tim Duncan PF
Richard Jefferson SF
Michael Finley SG
Tony Parker PG

[Sean Cagney]

i think the result of that was that there wasnt another option. Udoka choked when he was called to start. Bowen wont give you alot offensively. Finley was the best option to go last year. sadly that's how much of a joke the roster was last year.

Agree, our team around our big three were just average as HELL last year, truly not a great team nor contenders no matter what some may think.

[whottt]

What's worse than herpes in the ass?


Base, you have the floor...

[whottt]

it's hilarious that this thread is playing out like last year's thread about finley re-signing (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103083). So many spurs fans were convinced that finley would be used as a deep reserve and that pop had learned his lesson in playing him too much. What happened? Finley played more than ever.

If pop can bench a spurs legend who had been named to the all-defensive team for the last eight years or whatever it was to make room for finley, he'll find a way once again. If you could guarantee that finley would take a steve smith 2003 role, i'd be fine with him coming back. But if he's part of the rotation at all this coming season, i don't think the team wins a championship. Finley is just too horrible at defense, too soft and too much of a volume shooter who gets cold at the absolute wrong times.

+13467903256789

[Borosai]

You better add Finley to your depth chart Borosai..make sure to have a Kleenex to wipe the tears as you do it..I'm crying with you..

I'll just pink him.

[jcrod]

It's hilarious that this thread is playing out like last year's thread about Finley re-signing (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103083). So many Spurs fans were convinced that Finley would be used as a deep reserve and that Pop had learned his lesson in playing him too much. What happened? Finley played more than ever.

If Pop can bench a Spurs legend who had been named to the All-Defensive team for the last eight years or whatever it was to make room for Finley, he'll find a way once again. If you could guarantee that Finley would take a Steve Smith 2003 role, I'd be fine with him coming back. But if he's part of the rotation at all this coming season, I don't think the team wins a championship. Finley is just too horrible at defense, too soft and too much of a volume shooter who gets cold at the absolute wrong times.

:lmao:depressed

Ok, you're right. GTFO Finley, Pop wouldn't be able to help himself.

[Ditty]

finley will be possibly traded!

my friends mom does eva longoria's hair and supposedly she told one of her friends that the spurs were going to trade finley if he picks up his option i dont know for who or what and my friend never bullshits so maybe give some positive in this

[jcrod]

finley will be possibly traded!

my friends mom does eva longoria's hair and supposedly she told one of her friends that the spurs were going to trade finley if he picks up his option i dont know for who or what and my friend never bullshits so maybe give some positive in this

Shit man, you have me convinced.

[objective]

Something nobody even brings up in this thread with Finley is the $$$ issue.

They are in tax territory no matter what. Finley will cost the Spurs in real world dollars $5 million. That could affect their MLE offerings.

[MannyIsGod]

I hear what LJ is saying but the Spurs last year didn't have Richard Jefferson. I think that pretty much forces Pops hand.

[GSH]

Kori,

I agree with most of your post.

But with athletes.....it's always about money even for our beloved Spurs.

Would he turn down 2.5 million to not play for the one of the best teams in the league and have an opportunity to win a 2nd ring?

I believe we all know the answer to that question.

Fin is returning!!


We're all going to feel like shitheels when they announce that Fin didn't take his player option, so that he could sign for the league minimum to give the Spurs some lux tax relief. And in his press conference he says that he is happy to come back and play limited minutes for a team that has given him so much - especially his opportunity to finally get a championship ring. Then he'll thank the San Antonio fans for always being there for him.

[EricB]

I hear what LJ is saying but the Spurs last year didn't have Richard Jefferson. I think that pretty much forces Pops hand.

James Gist.
McClinton

McClinton who RC has already said he's gonna play in the backcourt at times with George Hill.

[mystargtr34]

Theres two things that you might be able to take some solace from - both have probably been mentioned already anyway but....

1. A possible pre arranged trade tha Spurs have made involving Fin. That might be the reason for the delay in a decision, perhaps the Spurs have told Fin they want to go in a different direction, but that they would facilitate a trade that would benefit both parties - and Fin was willing to wait for them do to so. Or...

2. Its a different situation to last year. As bad as Fin was at times last season, there wasnt much else available, especially with Manu injured for part of the season too. This season, you add a relatively young All-Star caliber swingman in Jefferson, who plays the exact same position as Fin, and will likely see 35 minutes or there abouts. Plus, potentially a healthy Manu, who will see 30 minutes a night.

Theres still the small ball fascination thats been mentioned, but im confident a quality big can be found for the MLE, if we dont the team is pretty much screwed whether Fin stays or not because it means having Matt Bonner matched up with the premier big men in the West. So Finley or not, the Spurs season pretty much hinges on the bigman Free Agent signings.

[EricB]

We're all going to feel like shitheels when they announce that Fin didn't take his player option, so that he could sign for the league minimum to give the Spurs some lux tax relief. And in his press conference he says that he is happy to come back and play limited minutes for a team that has given him so much - especially his opportunity to finally get a championship ring. Then he'll thank the San Antonio fans for always being there for him.


He's been a class guy from day 1. Been nothing but a team player. Done what was asked of him and the people still cuss the guy, call him herpes, hope that he dies, say if he comes back the team is doomed.

Its a shame. He took the Spurs over the Heat. Was a huge help in 2007 to win the championship and has never once whined about shit.

Yet the fans shit on him like he was Ron Mercer mixed with Ron Artest.


I'm hoping he does decline his option, retires and lives out his life in beautifull Plano Texas. If he comes back, its not the end of the world, but I do think he doesn't have anything left to give to the team, his legs are shot and hes reached the end of the line.

[scottspurs]

I can't believe so many people are freaking out about Finley. If he goes great, I wish him the best. If he stays he gives us another expiring contract. Since we've ditched the 2010 plan we could use some of the expiring contracts to pick up someone from a team who does have a 2010 plan. Since it sounds like Holt is willing to pay the tax the possibilities are endless. And if finley is on the Roster he wasn't that bad last season so I wouldn't mind him as a reserve.

we would have about 9.4 mil in expiring contracts:
Finley: 2.5 mil
Bonner: 3.2 mil
Mason 3.7 mil
Manu too but were not trading him unless he gets hurt again and we can rent a championship with someone like Cris Bosh.

With 9.4+(if you trade some cheap Rookie contracts as well) million in trade assets we could get a good player from a team trying to unload a contract that goes beyond 2010. The rights to Tiago Splitter could aslo sweeten a possible deal

Example of possible players that fit this scenario are:

Nick Collison 6.2 mil
Tyson Chandler 11.8 mil
Marcus Camby 7.6 mil
Chris Kaman 10.4 mil
Josh Smith 10.8 mil
Boris Diaw 9.0
Gerald Wallace 9.0 mil
Luol Deng 10.3 mil
Stephen Jackson 7.6 mil
Andrew Bogut 10.0 mil
Samuel Dalembert 11.3 mil
Joel Przybilla 6.8 mil
Andres Nocioni 7.5 mil
Caron Butler 9.7 mil
David West 9.0 mil
Cory Maggette 9.0 mil
Shane Battier 6.8 mil
Andrea Bargnani 6.5 mil
John Salmons 5.4 mil
Troy Murphy 11.0 mil

I know most of these names sound unrealistic, but a team may want to get rid of one of these contracts if the team is not performing well, are having money troubles or if they want to jump in the Lebron, Wade, Bosh, Kobe, Joe Johnson, Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, Raymond Felton, Shaq, Dirk, McGrady, Michael Redd, Ginobili, Bobby Simmons, Amare Stoudemire, Steve Nash, Mike Miller, Brendan Haywood, and Mark Madsen Sweepstakes.

This would most likely not happen, but if it did, it would probably go down during the All-star break or the trade deadline in Feb. To fill up the roster spots that this trade made we could use a combination of Vets and bring in some young players that will spend most of the season with the Austin Toros.

I believe Blair will already be on the team so youngsters who could develop in austin and be brought up once this happened would be:

James Gist-replace Bonner/Finley
Jack McClinton-replace Mason
Marcus Williams-replace Finley
Malik Hairston-replace Bonner/Finley
Nando De Colo-replace Mason

Just one of the Benefits of having the Toros is having more bullets in our gun.

After a trade like this we could also fill up some roster spots with capable and hungry vets that will be cut during the season and available for the minimum being players like:

Bruce Bowen
Robert Horry(Probably not)
Raja Bell
Tim Thomas
Fabricio Oberto
Kurt Thomas
Speedy Claxton
Brian Cook
Brent Berry
Marcus Camby
Udonis Haslem
Mark Blount
Francisco Elson
Brian Cardinal
Etan Thomas
Antonio Daniels
Rasual Butler
Cuttino Mobley
Earl Watson
Chucky Atkins
Damien Wilkins
Anthony Johnson
Ben Wallace
Travis Outlaw
Steve Blake
Shareef Abdur-Raheem
Mikki Moore
Kyle Korver

All these players could be available and possibly cut during this offseason or during the season itself. Alot of these players would already know our system.

I'm just saying, an extra 2.5 million in trade asset is not such a bad thing.

And like I said if he is on the roster I believe he has enough left in him to contribute.

So please don't freak out.

GO SPURS GO

[jcrod]

James Gist.
McClinton

McClinton who RC has already said he's gonna play in the backcourt at times with George Hill.

He said he can, not that he will. Guy still needs to make the team and see if his game translates to the NBA. Not a given, for either of the two.

[Olajuwon]

Why everybody hates on Finley? He's a proven vet, who's 24/7 better than Gist, Hairston or the Spurstalk fan favourite Sanikidze. He can give us solid 10-15 mins off the bench + he's clutch. Can be argued, whether 2,5 MIL is too much for his services, but I don't believe we could get someone better for this money, though I'd welcome Anthony Parker for example.

:lobt2:

[EricB]

He said he can, not that he will. Guy still needs to make the team and see if his game translates to the NBA. Not a given, for either of the two.

A deadeye shooter who Pop and RC said was "the best defender we worked out" ? I'd say he's made the team.

Gist if he doesn't make the regular roster will be in Austin.

Either way, they are on the team.

[Mr. Body]

Mark Madsen!!

[scottspurs]

Mark Madsen!!

Everbody is ready to dump all of their salary to get Mark Madsen in the Summer of 2010 didn't you hear?

Don't you watch Basketball?

[EricB]

They're ready to go after Tyler Hansbourough?

[Blackjack]

Mark Madsen!!

That's the first thing that I noticed...

This guy truly recognizes greatness.:smokin

As for the OP, I generally agree and have said as much in another thread.

My only problem with Finley is his ability to manipulate Pop with whatever the hell he does behind the scenes.

I'm not sure if Finley being the first, and really only, real big name free-agent the Spurs have been able to land has left Pop feeling completely indebted and/or trying to show the next vet. just how good they could have it if they were to follow in Fin's footsteps, but whatever the case... Pop can't quit Fin.

If Fin is a trusted reserve and designated shooter off the bench, than he's worth having around. The contract, as you mention, is another quality asset to have at the trade deadline if an opportunity arises.

Again, I've got no problem if Fin is used/viewed by Pop as a true reserve, that truly plays reserve minutes. I'm just not sure how you ask a drug-addict or alcoholic to take one puff and pass, or one or two drinks, and call it a night...

[spursbird]

Trade him and Bonner for Collison.

[EricB]

Trade him and Bonner for Collison.


What's Oklahoma's motivation?

[holcs50]

After reading the first page of this thread I decided there's no way in hell I'm reading the rest. I know a lot of you guys don't like finley cuz he's pops little pet, old, breaks down on D, goes on nasty cold streaks---but damn you guys act like this ruins a great off-season so far. Settle down Debbie Downers.

Finley has always been a nice, respectable guy on the Spurs. He still has moments where he can come in and hit some big shots. With a limited role I have absolutely no problem with finley staying another year. Plus I'm obviously in the minority, but I always have liked Finley-he's a class act, brings veteran experience, again can hit nice j's/3's now and then. This will not make or break the team next year, but I don't see it as a negative in anyway. If this is true welcome back for one more year Fin, get ready to fill in like 10-15 a game and hit a few 3's. :flag:

[scottspurs]

What's Oklahoma's motivation?

Like I said its unlikely, it would take a team wanting to free up space for a player they like more than their own guy in 2010. Unrealistic yes, impossible no. We did just get Jefferson for spare parts so the Bucks could free up some cap space. So it can happen.

[scottspurs]

After reading the first page of this thread I decided there's no way in hell I'm reading the rest. I know a lot of you guys don't like finley cuz he's pops little pet, old, breaks down on D, goes on nasty cold streaks---but damn you guys act like this ruins a great off-season so far. Settle down Debbie Dowers.

Finley has always been a nice, respectable guy on the Spurs. He still has moments where he can come in and hit some big shots. With a limited role I have absolutely no problem with finley staying another year. Plus I obviously in the minority like Finley-he's a class act, brings veteran experience, again can hit nice j's/3's now and then. This will not make or break the team next year, but I don't see it as a negative in anyway. If this is true welcome back for one more year Fin, get ready to fill in like 10-15 a game and hit a few 3's. :flag:

Exactly

[crc21209]

Well...like I said before..if he came back, fine...and if he didnt come back...fine. I think having him as a spot backup for RJ for 10-15 mins a game would be fine with me. But if I had a choice, I would take Bowen over Fin. Fin can still hit a clutch 3 in a game, so why not. Just please please Pop stop with the man-crush! :lol

[Mugen]

i do enjoy the fact that this garnered 8 pages worth of hate from spurs fans.

meh, you really can't blame Fin but we gotta get rasheed now.

[mattyc]

I don't think Fin coming back is the end of the world. I quite like him as a person and I think he is a valuable locker room guy to have. However, I desperately want to see guys like Hill, Jefferson, Mason and whoever else we sign to see the predominant bunch of minutes in the 2 and 3 spots, with Fin only seeing spot minutes.

[buttsR4rebounding]

All the haters!! I don't want Fin back as a starter--just like Bonner--but he would be an excellent back up at a relatively inexpensive price. It looks like we will already have 2 new starters and 5 or 6 new guys on the team. That is a bunch of turnover. Much better that he stay in a limited role.

[Spurs Brazil]

It's hilarious that this thread is playing out like last year's thread about Finley re-signing (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103083). So many Spurs fans were convinced that Finley would be used as a deep reserve and that Pop had learned his lesson in playing him too much. What happened? Finley played more than ever.

If Pop can bench a Spurs legend who had been named to the All-Defensive team for the last eight years or whatever it was to make room for Finley, he'll find a way once again. If you could guarantee that Finley would take a Steve Smith 2003 role, I'd be fine with him coming back. But if he's part of the rotation at all this coming season, I don't think the team wins a championship. Finley is just too horrible at defense, too soft and too much of a volume shooter who gets cold at the absolute wrong times.

I’m one of those who said last offseason that I’d be happy to see Finley in the S.Smith role but after last season I know Pop won’t do that. So I hope the Spurs trade Finley.
My big concern is if they decided to not use the entire MLE because Finley is back. I know Pop already say they want to use but you never know.
Sign a player to the full MLE now will be like a $11.6 million deal for 1 year because of the tax.

[Cloud786]

Question: If Finley does exercise his option, how long do we have to wait to be able to trade him along with, say, a Matt Bonner? Or can we trade him right away?

[holcs50]

Pretty sure once he exercises he can be put in a trade...I don't know of any like clearing period.

[Obstructed_View]

Why everybody hates on Finley? He's a proven vet, who's 24/7 better than Gist, Hairston or the Spurstalk fan favourite Sanikidze. He can give us solid 10-15 mins off the bench + he's clutch. Can be argued, whether 2,5 MIL is too much for his services, but I don't believe we could get someone better for this money, though I'd welcome Anthony Parker for example.

:lobt2:

I don't dislike alcohol, but I have an uncle that I'd like to keep alcohol away from so that my uncle doesn't start alcohol and give it extended minutes against the best scorer on the other team and refuse to have any faith in or develop the younger beverages, which is why I'd rather alcohol be in another city or retire.

Okay, my analogy sort of broke down, but you know where I'm going.

[benefactor]

...and here we go again.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_fo4CG3MTjFY/STKU3Mb5lUI/AAAAAAAAPQU/39qUPpv2AnU/071009_popovich_talk_finley_gt.jpg
"What the hell are you doing? Get those warmups off and get back in the game."

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Fin played some small ball in 2007 against the Nuggets.

Yeah that worked out horribly.

While I agree Finley playing small forward is bad, again, the bitching about it should be directed at the coach, not the player.

There's a big difference between the Denver front line in 2007 and having to go against Bynum/Gasol.

Even a carny should be able to figure that out.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

I honestly don't understand it either. I think Finely's done fine in his time here. Its not his fault Pop plays him too much. I don't understand the hate directed at him at all. Direct it at the man who plays him far too much.

Pop is stubborn. We all know this. The only way for Finley not to get minutes at the end of games is for him not to be a part of this squad.

[SenorSpur]

Pop is stubborn. We all know this. The only way for Finley not to get minutes at the end of games is for him not to be a part of this squad.

:tu

One roster spot wasted. Any thoughts of a possible Bowen comeback are pretty much dead now. This also signals bad news for either Hairston or Williams - or perhaps even both.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

James Gist.
McClinton

McClinton who RC has already said he's gonna play in the backcourt at times with George Hill.

Therein lies part of the rub.

Fin will get minutes that should be going to guys like Gist. But we all know what will happen - Gist will make a bad pass/miss a rotation, and he'll be on the bench the rest of the year while Finley gets 28 MPG.

We don't need his veteran leadership on the court or the locker room. If we still need any leadership after Tim, Tony, and Manu, this team has bigger issues.

[kobyz]

Mason is most worst than Finley, Finley need to stay just to make that Mason will not get a lot of minutes.

[DPG21920]

:tu

One roster spot wasted. Any thoughts of a possible Bowen comeback are pretty much dead now. This also signals bad news for either Hairston or Williams - or perhaps even both.

So did he pick up his option?

[DynastyBuilder]

therein lies part of the rub.

Fin will get minutes that should be going to guys like gist. But we all know what will happen - gist will make a bad pass/miss a rotation, and he'll be on the bench the rest of the year while finley gets 28 mpg.

We don't need his veteran leadership on the court or the locker room. If we still need any leadership after tim, tony, and manu, this team has bigger issues.

+1

[spursbird]

Mason is most worst than Finley, Finley need to stay just to make that Mason will not get a lot of minutes.
Mason has a big heart at clutch time. He can dribble well. What about Finley? What else can he do besides shooting 3 pts?

[SenorSpur]

Mason has a big heart at clutch time. He can dribble well. What about Finley? What else can he do besides shooting 3 pts?

...and he's not always consistent doing that either.

[TimDunkem]

...and he's not always consistent doing that either.

Who else on the Spurs can play 30 minutes a game without registering a single stat?

[Olajuwon]

I don't dislike alcohol, but I have an uncle that I'd like to keep alcohol away from so that my uncle doesn't start alcohol and give it extended minutes against the best scorer on the other team and refuse to have any faith in or develop the younger beverages, which is why I'd rather alcohol be in another city or retire.

Okay, my analogy sort of broke down, but you know where I'm going.

I get your point - fair enough, but Gist, Hairston, Mahinmi are not the fellas who'll be the core of the Spurs in the next 5-10 years either. I have more faith in Blair and Hill and I'd play them over Finley. But atm it's rather obvious that there aren't much sweeter apples on the table...
If Finley can retain his %-s from last year, he'll be a 10-15 min sub.

:lobt2:

[urunobili]

If Finley is kept ala S.Smith role in 2003 I'd be happy with him staying.. someone has to be on the younglins ass as it happened in 2003... I think Mason will be the one traded if McClinton proves he can shoot as he does... Otherwise... this means he is cool being trade fodder... I don't see Pop giving him more than spot minutes...

[hater]

man ppl are assholes around here. so he wants to finish his career a Spur. blame pop if he gets too many minutes.

[tp2021]

It seems like he would be fully aware at the possibility of being traded once he picks up the option. Maybe the FO talked to him about it. If he agrees to be traded to help the team get better, ST might owe Fin a bit of an apology.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

man ppl are assholes around here. so he wants to finish his career a Spur. blame pop if he gets too many minutes.

People know it's on Pop, you're missing the point - Pop will screw up if the opportunity presents itself (i.e., Fin is on the roster). So our only hope is for the opportunity to remove itself (Fin to leave).

[rascal]

finley will be possibly traded!

my friends mom does eva longoria's hair and supposedly she told one of her friends that the spurs were going to trade finley if he picks up his option i dont know for who or what and my friend never bullshits so maybe give some positive in this

If you are lying it is a good lie.

[BacktoBasics]

Just because he opted in doesn't mean he'll play. As far as I'm concerned this contract is a good bargaining chip if they're trying to put a package together with no long term ramifications. I'd rather have an expiring 2 or so mil contract over nothing. Its a manageable trade asset at best and trusted vet at worst.

[ElNono]

Just because he opted in doesn't mean he'll play. As far as I'm concerned this contract is a good bargaining chip if they're trying to put a package together with no long term ramifications. I'd rather have an expiring 2 or so mil contract over nothing. Its a manageable trade asset at best and trusted vet at worst.

You mean a 30 mpg vet at worst.

[E20]

Unless if he gets a lot of minutes, WGAF. Won't matter. 8/9th man on the bench.

[coyotes_geek]

I'll take the "under" on Finley @ 30mpg next year.

[Dex]

I thought about it last night. I totally respect everything that Mike has done for this team. He's filled a vital role in the backcourt for four years. He was crucial in our 2007 run. He has always shown outstanding professionalism, accepts the role that is given to him (even if it is too much), and should be a favorite in the locker room and by the fans.

That being said, I'm sticking to my guns...

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/gawker/2009/03/omg-do-not-want.jpg

[Dex]

Echo, echo, echo....echo......

[BacktoBasics]

You mean a 30 mpg vet at worst.With a healthy Manu and hopefully a slightly improved Hill along with a 35 a minute a night starter in Jefferson I don't see Fin getting anywhere near those kinds of minutes. Lets not forget that although he's young Pop still likes Hill's defense and surely he likes it over Fin's.

This team is quite a bit deeper than a year ago. They just added a 35 a minute a night starter. You guys are overreacting.

[SenorSpur]

Finley was a bad idea from the jump. I warned everyone of this declining one-trick pony. He was serviceable in '06, but that was about it. He's declined every year he's been here. It was a bad idea then and a worse idea now. Pop has proven that he can't be trusted to limit Finley to a specified role. His presence on the roster makes absolutely no sense. I just can't fathom another year of his turnovers and bricklaying.

[ElNono]

Lets not forget that although he's young Pop still likes Hill's defense and surely he likes it over Fin's.

I don't know where you got any indication of that. Last I checked Hill was riding the bench while Mike was attempting to guard Durant.

[SpursFan0728]

You guys are pretty naive if you think Pop will LIMIT Finley's minutes to 10-15 mins a game.
Fuck i'll be happy if Finley doesn't start.

[lotr1trekkie]

I assume that Pop/RC already met with Fin and explained the situation. Unless Pop's pre-Alz he should have explained that not only is Fin not starting --- he's not even in the normal rotation. Lots of DNP or inactives. Fin has been a solid pro and doesn't need the embarrassment of finishing his career that way. Hopefully, they are working on some dignified way of parting.Bowens would be a better compliment player ot RJ.15 minutes a nite of solid D.

[SpursFan0728]

I assume that Pop/RC already met with Fin and explained the situation. Unless Pop's pre-Alz he should have explained that not only is Fin not starting --- he's not even in the normal rotation. Lots of DNP or inactives. Fin has been a solid pro and doesn't need the embarrassment of finishing his career that way. Hopefully, they are working on some dignified way of parting.Bowens would be a better compliment player ot RJ.15 minutes a nite of solid D.

my thoughts exactly!:toast

[baseline bum]

Fucking shit. Not only does Finley ensure Bruce isn't back, but the fucker is also going to take Hill's and Mason's minutes. Fuck! :pctoss

Go home, Finley.

[baseline bum]

Jeesy-creezy, what's with the hate? He played a lot last year because we had shit-all-else at the position. Who expected him to turn down this money? We can trade him, whatever. He can sit the bench, play bench minutes. He's still better than Hairston at this point.

That's not valid at all. Bowen is a far better player who had his minutes cut to nil the entire season for Finley's washed-up ass.

[DDUBB1770]

I dont want him back anymore than any one here, but other than Mason did anyone on our squad hit more game winner, game tying shots in the last few seconds, experianced vet not afraid to take the last shot sound like a great end of the bench guy if forced to keep him, look at it this way he stays maybe JV gots ta go.

[TimDunkem]

I dont want him back anymore than any one here, but other than Mason did anyone on our squad hit more game winner, game tying shots in the last few seconds, experianced vet not afraid to take the last shot sound like a great end of the bench guy if forced to keep him, look at it this way he stays maybe JV gots ta go.

JV is an expiring....

[loveforthegame]

I'm going to laugh when Finley doesn't pick up his option and Bowen still isn't brought back.

[baseline bum]

What's worse than herpes in the ass?


Base, you have the floor...

I'm fucking pissed he's back, but Steve Smith is still the worst Spurs player of all-time IMO because:

1) He was being paid $10 million per by the Spurs.
2) He threatened to hold out if Pop didn't give him a $10 million per extension, with two fucking years still on his contract.
3) He completely mailed in the 2002 series with LA. You'd think a guy making $10 million would chase loose balls and get on the floor for them, but you'd have thought wrong with HITA. Just no effort whatsoever in that series; you could tell he was still pissed about not getting the extension.
4) He was done.

I'm pretty fucking disgusted that Finley is back though; make no doubt about that. What the fuck was RC thinking giving him that player option this year?

[td4mvp21]

If Finley truly comes back over Bowen...I can't even finish that sentence. I will be fucking pissed.

[baseline bum]

We're all going to feel like shitheels when they announce that Fin didn't take his player option, so that he could sign for the league minimum to give the Spurs some lux tax relief. And in his press conference he says that he is happy to come back and play limited minutes for a team that has given him so much - especially his opportunity to finally get a championship ring. Then he'll thank the San Antonio fans for always being there for him.

I don't want Finley back for the minimum.

[pad300]

RC didn't say that as far as I heard.

And yes, I think they'll be another trade this summer.

Yeah, IMO, it makes no sense to partially trade out of the 2010 plan. Expiring contracts are supposed to be valuable for the 2010 FA bonanza; with Finley we have at least 3 practical pieces to trade on contract value alone - Finley, Bonner, and Mason. Given that letting them expire won't give us squat for maneuvering room, trading for a useful piece makes much more sense.

[baseline bum]

Why everybody hates on Finley? He's a proven vet, who's 24/7 better than Gist, Hairston or the Spurstalk fan favourite Sanikidze. He can give us solid 10-15 mins off the bench + he's clutch. Can be argued, whether 2,5 MIL is too much for his services, but I don't believe we could get someone better for this money, though I'd welcome Anthony Parker for example.

:lobt2:

Maybe Finley would be capable of a solid 10 minutes off the bench, but instead we'll get a shitty 25 minutes. Fuck, another year of getting eaten alive by the Brandon Bass es of the league.:bang

[angelbelow]

ive always liked finley, i realize that its best that he does not come back so we can save money and let the younger guys play more but it wouldnt be terrible if he stuck around to mentor some of them. then again, im not sure how interested hes in tutoringthe young guys.

[BacktoBasics]

The thought process in this thread boggles my mind. This guys contract is a huge trade asset.

[timvp]

The thought process in this thread boggles my mind. This guys contract is a huge trade asset.
Not really. $2.5 million isn't much of a trade asset. By itself, it'd get nothing. I don't see the Spurs doing another 3-for-1 deal to further lessen the depth.

The fact that Finley's contract will basically cost $5 million when you factor in the lux tax threshold trumps its trade power by itself. If Finley opts out, the Spurs are much more likely to use their MLE and LLE. If he doesn't opt out, it's doubtful the Spurs use both. It might be difficult to get Holt to use the entire MLE if Finley doesn't opt out.

[D-ROB 50]

Not really. $2.5 million isn't much of a trade asset. By itself, it'd get nothing. I don't see the Spurs doing another 3-for-1 deal to further lessen the depth.

The fact that Finley's contract will basically cost $5 million when you factor in the lux tax threshold trumps its trade power by itself. If Finley opts out, the Spurs are much more likely to use their MLE and LLE. If he doesn't opt out, it's doubtful the Spurs use both. It might be difficult to get Holt to use the entire MLE if Finley doesn't opt out.

Makes perfect sense.

[Trimble87]

This is nonsense. 7 pages of hate for a guy who has done nothing but be a solid role player for us the last 3 years. If you guys really have such little faith in Popovich then thats fine, but 4 championships later I think he knows how to handle a rotation.

If Finley comes back I'm 100% sure it will be as a role player coming off the bench for spot up shooting 10-15mpg.