enough of this sh....!!!! Bring back Bruce

[hater]

do whatever it takes...

http://www.kmph.com/Global/story.asp?S=10653154&nav=menu612_4


"when asked what are the chances for Bruce finishing his career in LA, he said.... LA is not for Bruce." :toast

[DynastySpurs210]

BRING BACK BRUCE!!!!!

http://www.brucebowen.com/images/fanzone_inthezone_02.gif

[honestfool84]

take it for what it's worth...and i hope it's wrong, especially the long tree it comes from...


but my brother's gf's father ate lunch with peter holt, and holt said bowen isn't coming back.


i really hope it's all wrong, though.

i want bruce back.

[coyotes_geek]

He hasn't been waived yet so there's nothing the Spurs can do. Assuming they're even interested.

[SA210]

Thank you, I've been saying this. Great thread.
Bring Bruce back, or we'll regret it later.

:pop::pctoss

[in2deep]

"when asked what are the chances for Bruce finishing his career in LA, he said.... LA is not for Bruce." :toast


that's my man Bruuuuuce!!!!!!

Fuck LA.

:tu

[tp2021]

D-Rob, Timmy, Bruce.

They represent what the Spurs stand for, and they all deserve to have their numbers hanging from the rafters.

Bring back Bruce.

[Muser]

Bruce needs to come back for one more year and then retire, have his number retired and hung in the rafters.

[kace]

we don't hear any news about him. i would like to know at least if he could be waived.

i really hope he will be back, and i even think he could be useful for us.

[rascal]

take it for what it's worth...and i hope it's wrong, especially the long tree it comes from...


but my brother's gf's father ate lunch with peter holt, and holt said bowen isn't coming back.


i really hope it's all wrong, though.

i want bruce back.


Good news. The fans need to let go of past memories. He was being phased out last year and now the spurs have a borderline star at the 3 and young players that need minutes to develop there are no more big minutes to give to Bowen where he will make any type of impact.

The spurs have a more exciting new look team with more athleticism.

[urunobili]

B.b.b.

[rayray2k8]

They have to waive him first, dumbass..

[Spursmania]

I want Bruce Back too! Remember though, Pop's falling out with him. I just think once that happens, there is no tuning back. I hope I'm really wrong.

But if we don't get Bruce back, what defensive specialist will the Spurs pick-up? They need a defensive stopper.

[Spursmania]

They have to waive him first, dumbass..

The Bucks need to decide by August 1. So, I guess we''ll know more then.

[hater]

They have to waive him first, dumbass..

NO!! really???

of course they do. Then Spurs can sign him. ya dumb ho

[all_heart]

I want Bruce Back too! Remember though, Pop's falling out with him. I just think once that happens, there is no tuning back. I hope I'm really wrong.

But if we don't get Bruce back, what defensive specialist will the Spurs pick-up? They need a defensive stopper.

Please remind me of this falling out thing, what happened? Thanks

[rayray2k8]

NO!! really???

of course they do. Then Spurs can sign him. ya dumb ho

Then go bitch at the bucks you ignorant fuck.. Why do dumbasses like you post these ridiculous threads, demanding to bring this player, or sign this guy.
Do you honestly believe R.C Buford or Pop comes on spurstalk?
Get a clue man. :rolleyes

[SA210]

Good news. The fans need to let go of past memories. He was being phased out last year and now the spurs have a borderline star at the 3 and young players that need minutes to develop there are no more big minutes to give to Bowen where he will make any type of impact.

The spurs have a more exciting new look team with more athleticism.

I really see that most of what you say about the Spurs is just ignorant and you never make any sense at all.

I would love Bruce to have big minutes, cuz there is no "real" reason why he shouldn't...but even if he didn't have any minutes, he could be valuable to us to have at the end of the bench for moments like in the Playoffs when our new signings don't matter cuz Kobe is killing us, we then can call on a great veteran to come in and cool down Kobe.

We are going to need that, I don't care what anyone says.

[coyotes_geek]

Good news. The fans need to let go of past memories. He was being phased out last year and now the spurs have a borderline star at the 3 and young players that need minutes to develop there are no more big minutes to give to Bowen where he will make any type of impact.

The spurs have a more exciting new look team with more athleticism.

Undoubtedly the Spurs can't trot Bruce out there as a starting SF for 30 minutes a night anymore, but I think it was obvious that last year Bruce was still the best perimeter defender on the team. Bruce can't do it for big minutes, but I don't see how anyone can think that even small minutes of Bruce Bowen's defense isn't something the Spurs can benefit from. Maybe the Spurs see it differently, but as I see it there will be plenty of time to develop young guys later. I'll take 10 minutes of Bruce Bowen defense a night over garbage time minutes for some younger player.

[z0sa]

If the FO or other spurs even mention bruce returning, we could see the League take action against us. Therefore, any Spurs source is unreliable regarding the situation.

[DMX7]

No. Bruce is done.

[tp2021]

Then go bitch at the bucks you ignorant fuck.. Why do dumbasses like you post these ridiculous threads, demanding to bring this player, or sign this guy.
Do you honestly believe R.C Buford or Pop comes on spurstalk?
Get a clue man. :rolleyes

Calm the fuck down Chris Paul

[rayray2k8]

Calm the fuck down Chris Paul

Oh be quiet. You're probably one of the one's im talking about. :lol

[Spursmania]

Please remind me of this falling out thing, what happened? Thanks

I don't really know if Pop and Bowen had a true falling out. But there were questions of it due to Pop's reluctance to play him in the latter half of the season and during the playoffs.

Many fans were frustrated with Bruce's lack of playing time and the consensus seemed to be he had fallen out of Pop's good graces. Others say he had lost a step, yet he was still pretty effective when he was out there compared to our other defenders.

[SA210]

Bruce lost a step MY ASS! Someone said that one day, and people went with it as truth. It's complete BS. People can't think for themseleves and just believe what they hear. He is STILL the best perimiter defender in the entire NBA, period.

[dbestpro]

The way most talk around here i know you are eeither divorced or will be. Taking Bruce back is like going back to the old spouse. The good times are over. It's time to move on. Some of you probably want Avery back running the point over Tony. And for you real old hold outs, Gervin ain't coming back, either.

[silverblackfan]

Bruce lost a step MY ASS! Someone said that one day, and people went with it as truth. It's complete BS. People can't think for themseleves and just believe what they hear. He is STILL the best perimiter defender in the entire NBA, period.
:toast
Bruce has not looked that slow or unprepared to me when he was on the floor during the season or against the Mavs. In fact, I really didn't notice the guys he was covering as long as Bruce was in the games. He is still the stopper that could be valuable this year.
Of course, once he is waived, the Spurs can comment on this. Otherwise, Fine City.

[rayray2k8]

Bruce has lost a step for sure. I mean, it's not like he's getting younger.
He will always be a spur.

[SA210]

The way most talk around here i know you are eeither divorced or will be. Taking Bruce back is like going back to the old spouse. The good times are over. It's time to move on. Some of you probably want Avery back running the point over Tony. And for you real old hold outs, Gervin ain't coming back, either.

Why do you have to exxagerate? Avery is not the best point gaurd in the NBA or even near it and he's retired. Gervin is retired and old. What a ridiculous arguement.

Bruce though, is still the best perimiter defender in the NBA right now, regardless of what BS people say. He's the best defender on the perimter, we are "supposed" to be a defensive team. We have noone to slow down Kobe. Makes sense.

[SA210]

Bruce has lost a step for sure. I mean, it's not like he's getting younger.
He will always be a spur.

"He's lost a step" has been the common popular statement but has no real backing.

And even he he did lose a step, he's still the best defender on the perimeter in the NBA, and definitely better defensively than any other Spur, period. I guess when Kobe's killing us next year, you'll just have to see then what I'm talking about.

[all_heart]

The way most talk around here i know you are eeither divorced or will be. Taking Bruce back is like going back to the old spouse. The good times are over. It's time to move on. Some of you probably want Avery back running the point over Tony. And for you real old hold outs, Gervin ain't coming back, either.

Good one! :lol

Bruce still holds some value, however I have to agree that he's lost a little step and I hate to say it but I don't think anybody can really "lock down" Kobe. Bruce from 4 years ago, could get pretty close. I think Shane Battier is probably the best perimeter defender in the league right now. I also think Ariza has some pretty good potential to be in that category. That's why I think the Lakers fucked up by not keeping him and getting Artest. I don't think toughness can really be "spread" to everyone, if they wanted to be tougher they would get tougher on their own. Inspired perhaps, but Artest isn't that type of player, he'll just be a foul magnet next year for the Lakers. They are worse now w/out Ariza. Getting back to Bruce... he has to be released from the Bucks before he can be "taken" back by the Spurs, shit who knows, maybe the Bucks will keep him and play him 20 min. a game. Whatever the case is the Spurs will be an upgraded team next year! :ihit

[SA210]

^^^^ Bruce makes Kobe ineffective, jacking up shots, Kobe doesn't get his team involved as much when Bruce is on him. How do you not know this?

[Da Spurs]

There is no way the Bucks are going to keep Bruce. They wanted his contract so they could cut him and save money since it was only partially guaranteed. They're going young and rebuilding and the last thing they need is an old unhappy dinosaur on the team.

On the other, the Spurs could use the old dinosaur considering all of the new players. So, on Aug 1, let's go after him. Isn't there like a 7 day period before we can sign him or something like that?

[tp2021]

If Bruce is cut, he has to wait 20 days before signing with anyone.

[all_heart]

^^^^ Bruce makes Kobe ineffective, jacking up shots, Kobe doesn't get his team involved as much when Bruce is on him. How do you not know this?

C'mon, that's exaggerating a little bit. He helps, I'm not saying he can't guard Kobe, it's just when Kobe gets it going, it's too late, the fucker gets confidence and rhythm. Perhaps Bruce can't play the needed 30+ minutes to be "effective". Bruce has the brains to get it done, he's just not fast enough any more. Either way I think Kobe has come to rely on his team mates more these days, unless he has a hissy fit and decides not to take any shots and leave the team out to dry. Kobe is getting wear and tear too, so that "difference gap" shouldn't widen too much if Bruce comes back.

[Da Spurs]

If Bruce is cut, he has to wait 20 days before signing with anyone.


Thanks. I knew there was some sort of waiting period less than 30 days.

[SA210]

C'mon, that's exaggerating a little bit. He helps, I'm not saying he can't guard Kobe, it's just when Kobe gets it going, it's too late, the fucker gets confidence and rhythm. Perhaps Bruce can't play the needed 30+ minutes to be "effective". Bruce has the brains to get it done, he's just not fast enough any more. Either way I think Kobe has come to rely on his team mates more these days, unless he has a hissy fit and decides not to take any shots and leave the team out to dry. Kobe is getting wear and tear too, so that "difference gap" shouldn't widen too much if Bruce comes back.

I don't think it's an exaggeration. I think we just have forgotten how valuable Bruce really is to us. You saw Bruce was great while he played in the playoffs. He can gaurd Kobe better than anyone. That would come in handy for us in the playoffs. No matter how much you or anyone seems to believe that Bruce is slower, the bottom line is there is no one better to gaurd Kobe or Lebron or any of those types of dudes, period.

[all_heart]

There is no way the Bucks are going to keep Bruce. They wanted his contract so they could cut him and save money since it was only partially guaranteed. They're going young and rebuilding and the last thing they need is an old unhappy dinosaur on the team.

On the other, the Spurs could use the old dinosaur considering all of the new players. So, on Aug 1, let's go after him. Isn't there like a 7 day period before we can sign him or something like that?


So he's not good enough for the Bucks but good enough for the Spurs, WTF??! Every team in the NBA could use a salty vet on the bench, whether he plays 5 min or 20 mins a game out there. Bruce is plenty smart and crafty enough to teach a few young Bucks a thing or too. Don't forget he can knock down that corner 3, so there is always a chance they may decide to hold onto him.

[SA210]

So he's not good enough for the Bucks but good enough for the Spurs, WTF??! Every team in the NBA could use a salty vet on the bench, whether he plays 5 min or 20 mins a game out there. Bruce is plenty smart and crafty enough to teach a few young Bucks a thing or too. Don't forget he can knock down that corner 3, so there is always a chance they may decide to hold onto him.

Those reasons are why we need him. I'm not for putting him at the end of the bench, but at least have him for that if nothing else. So when we do need to cool down another player on another team, and none of our NEW signings can do it, Bruce has fresh legs for it and can do that veteran job for us when we need it. What's wrong with that?

We'll need it.

[hater]

Then go bitch at the bucks you ignorant fuck.. Why do dumbasses like you post these ridiculous threads, demanding to bring this player, or sign this guy.
Do you honestly believe R.C Buford or Pop comes on spurstalk?
Get a clue man. :rolleyes

don't like the thread? don't post in it ya stupid cunt.

[hater]

The way most talk around here i know you are eeither divorced or will be. Taking Bruce back is like going back to the old spouse. The good times are over. It's time to move on. Some of you probably want Avery back running the point over Tony. And for you real old hold outs, Gervin ain't coming back, either.

uh, Bruce is still top 5 perimeter defender in the NBA. it's a no brainer for min salary and minutes.

[all_heart]

I don't think it's an exaggeration. I think we just have forgotten how valuable Bruce really is to us. You saw Bruce was great while he played in the playoffs. He can gaurd Kobe better than anyone. That would come in handy for us in the playoffs. No matter how much you or anyone seems to believe that Bruce is slower, the bottom line is there is no one better to gaurd Kobe or Lebron or any of those types of dudes, period.

On past Spurs teams, there was nobody better to guard Kobe. So if the Spurs were playing in these past playoffs, who would you rather guard Kobe, Shane or Bruce (IF you had the option)? I'd have to lean towards Shane myself. I just don't believe Bruce has the speed or strength to guard players like Kobe or Lebron, the heart and brains yes, that's why he's a great help defender and is able to block some shots from the back or side.

[SA210]

On past Spurs teams, there was nobody better to guard Kobe. So if the Spurs were playing in these past playoffs, who would you rather guard Kobe, Shane or Bruce (IF you had the option)? I'd have to lean towards Shane myself. I just don't believe Bruce has the speed or strength to guard players like Kobe or Lebron, the heart and brains yes, that's why he's a great help defender and is able to block some shots from the back or side.

I'd rather have Bruce. I think he's still the best at gaurding the perimiter right now. And if the Bucks cut him, he's be easy to resign for the minimum.

And Battier is way overrated on defense. It makes me sick how overrated people make him out to be.

[all_heart]

Those reasons are why we need him. I'm not for putting him at the end of the bench, but at least have him for that if nothing else. So when we do need to cool down another player on another team, and none of our NEW signings can do it, Bruce has fresh legs for it and can do that veteran job for us when we need it. What's wrong with that?

We'll need it.

Nothing wrong with that, I like that idea, I'm just saying that's why the Bucks may hold onto him. You never know...
I will say that right now w/out Bruce we just have to hope Hairston, Manu, or RJ can do a good enough job and our new rebounders will make up the difference. Hill just isn't tall enough to stop those pullup jumpers that Kobe likes to shoot. Going forward between TP and Hill we should absolutely own the opposing teams PGs. TP should be able to wear them out offensively and Hill on the defensive side. It's going to be an awesome sight to see TP, Manu and Hill getting into the paint with the likes of RJ and Mason waiting at the 3 pt line, with Blair, TD, and Dice ready to hit the glass.

[iilluzioN]

BRING BACK BRUCE!!!!!

http://www.brucebowen.com/images/fanzone_inthezone_02.gif


:lol nice foul

[Da Spurs]

So he's not good enough for the Bucks but good enough for the Spurs, WTF??! Every team in the NBA could use a salty vet on the bench, whether he plays 5 min or 20 mins a game out there. Bruce is plenty smart and crafty enough to teach a few young Bucks a thing or too. Don't forget he can knock down that corner 3, so there is always a chance they may decide to hold onto him.

I don't think you trade for a 38 year old unless there is something to be had financially. And yes, the Bucks needed that financial break to sign their free agents. They ain't going to keep Bruce. Mark it down.

[all_heart]

I'd rather have Bruce. I think he's still the best at gaurding the perimiter right now. And if the Bucks cut him, he's be easy to resign for the minimum.

And Battier is way overrated on defense. It makes me sick how overrated people make him out to be.

Battier is a good defender, very similar style to Bruce, he even knocks down that corner 3 too. I like the way he can get a hand an inch away from Kobe's grill without knocking the shit out of him. Although the latter would be nice too every now and then.. :lol

[SA210]

Nothing wrong with that, I like that idea, I'm just saying that's why the Bucks may hold onto him. You never know...
I will say that right now w/out Bruce we just have to hope Hairston, Manu, or RJ can do a good enough job and our new rebounders will make up the difference. Hill just isn't tall enough to stop those pullup jumpers that Kobe likes to shoot. Going forward between TP and Hill we should absolutely own the opposing teams PGs. TP should be able to wear them out offensively and Hill on the defensive side. It's going to be an awesome sight to see TP, Manu and Hill getting into the paint with the likes of RJ and Mason waiting at the 3 pt line, with Blair, TD, and Dice ready to hit the glass.

We are going to need Manu to play his badass offense and to do all the Manu things he does. But Bruce makes it easier for the team. He already frustrates the hell out of his guy by the time they gets to the rim. We don't need Manu or our other offensive players trying to do something Bruce can already do better.

Hopefully the Bucks cut him, so Pop can take his head out his ass and resign him.

[all_heart]

I don't think you trade for a 38 year old unless there is something to be had financially. And yes, the Bucks needed that financial break to sign their free agents. They ain't going to keep Bruce. Mark it down.

I hope you're right dude. I just hope Denver or NO doesn't step in and offer Bruce just enough $$ to lure him away from us. Karl is just the type of person to push for that too.. I'd personally fuck him up for that! :ihit

[all_heart]

We are going to need Manu to play his badass offense and to do all the Manu things he does. But Bruce makes it easier for the team. He already frustrates the hell out of his guy by the time they gets to the rim. We don't need Manu or our other offensive players trying to do something Bruce can already do better.

Hopefully the Bucks cut him, so Pop can take his head out his ass and resign him.

Gotta point there, problem is that RJ and Bruce technically play the same position. Unless you go small, you can't have TD, TP, Manu, RJ and Bruce out there at the same time during crunch time. In the last two minutes of a game with 1 or no timeouts left, you need both scorers and rebounders out there. You could probably put Dice in for RJ, put TD in his natural 4 spot and hope that TP or Manu are in rhythm.

[rascal]

Why do you have to exxagerate? Avery is not the best point gaurd in the NBA or even near it and he's retired. Gervin is retired and old. What a ridiculous arguement.

Bruce though, is still the best perimiter defender in the NBA right now, regardless of what BS people say. He's the best defender on the perimter, we are "supposed" to be a defensive team. We have noone to slow down Kobe. Makes sense.


Bruce is not a Kobe stopper, he no longer can even slow him down anymore.
Kobe is just too good and at the top of his game for Bowen.

[SA210]

Bruce is not a Kobe stopper, he no longer can even slow him down anymore.
Kobe is just too good and at the top of his game for Bowen.

:lol Whatever dude.

[weebo]

For a team in win-now mode, a guy like Bowen (who knows the Spurs defensive schemes) makes sense. With the addition of so many new players, it also wouldn't hurt to have a guy like Bowen help mentor the new players, especially the young ones that make the team.

I think we all can agree in the direction the team is heading, but we still need this guy if for nothing else but the intangibles he can bring to the team. He may not be Bruce of 03, but him being on the team can only help and not hurt.

[all_heart]

Bruce is not a Kobe stopper, he no longer can even slow him down anymore.
Kobe is just too good and at the top of his game for Bowen.

All I can say is that IF we get Bruce back and IF he gets some minutes against the Lakers, we'll put all theories to test and settle this argument once and for all. Personally I think if Kobe is in rhythm, nobody can really stop him unless you double team him forcing him to pass or don't allow him to catch the ball in the first place. But that of course can have serious consequences. Hopefully this past year including Beijing will take it's toll on Kobe next year, he looked exhausted in post game press conference, even my wife noticed.

[Phenomanul]

Bruce has lost a step... sure... That still doesn't negate the fact that as recent as last season (on limited minutes, no less) Bruce still

did a hell of a job on Vince Carter...
frustrated the typically stoic Brandon Roy...
did an admirable job on Ben Gordon, and Rip Hamilton...
And remember that game against the Pacers when Granger was going off?? Enter Bruce... Spurs' win.
Leandro Barbosa was his new B^#$& after Marion left the Suns...
Who was put in the games to shutdown Dallas' guard combo of Jason Terry and Barea?? A tandem of Bruce and Hill. Too bad Pop didn't recognize the benefits of this adjustment until it was too late...
And to top it off Bruce can always be counted on shutting down Peja (who's also getting up there age)...

As for his play against Kobe... He didn't get many minutes against him last season... but Bruce forced Bryant into his typical chucker mode... Unfortunately, holding Kobe off doesn't necessarily guarantee a win against the Lakers these days... Not after Gasol's arrival or when Odom decides to play...

Durant was pretty much the only player last season that got whatever he wanted off of Bruce...

Bruce for the Vet min >>> minutes given to Finley...

The way I see it, Bruce would be the defensive specialist and Finley should be relegated to the Steve Kerr role...

[rayray2k8]

:lol Whatever dude.

I guess you know more than Pop knows right now.. Maybe you should apply for a coaching job. The bucks might hire you and you could build around Bowen. :)

[Spurs_9_20_21]

Bruce come back! If we do sign him, how many roster spots are left?

[ElNono]

Bruce has lost a step... sure... That still doesn't negate the fact that as recent as last season (on limited minutes, no less) Bruce still

did a hell of a job on Vince Carter...
frustrated the typically stoic Brandon Roy...
did an admirable job on Ben Gordon, and Rip Hamilton...
And remember that game against the Pacers when Granger was going off?? Enter Bruce... Spurs' win.
Leandro Barbosa was his new B^#$& after Marion left the Suns...
Who was put in the games to shutdown Dallas' guard combo of Jason Terry and Barea?? A tandem of Bruce and Hill. Too bad Pop didn't recognize the benefits of this adjustment until it was too late...
And to top it off Bruce can always be counted on shutting down Peja (who's also getting up there age)...

As for his play against Kobe... He didn't get many minutes against him last season... but Bruce forced Bryant into his typical chucker mode... Unfortunately, holding Kobe off doesn't necessarily guarantee a win against the Lakers these days... Not after Gasol's arrival or when Odom decides to play...

Durant was pretty much the only player last season that got whatever he wanted off of Bruce...

I want to add that, if anything, I would have Bruce for the vet minimum teaching the tricks of the trade to the young guys in the roster. If Finley can be valuable in that capacity, I don't see how Bowen can't be.

[all_heart]

For a team in win-now mode, a guy like Bowen (who knows the Spurs defensive schemes) makes sense. With the addition of so many new players, it also wouldn't hurt to have a guy like Bowen help mentor the new players, especially the young ones that make the team.

I think we all can agree in the direction the team is heading, but we still need this guy if for nothing else but the intangibles he can bring to the team. He may not be Bruce of 03, but him being on the team can only help and not hurt.

This all goes back to the ability of Bruce being able to at least slow down the opposing teams best perimeter player (Kobe/Lebron). For arguments sake, if he can't do that, how much value does he have? Do you sign him up for nostalgia reasons and hope he can teach the young guys a few things or use that $$ on somebody who may be able to contribute on both ends of the floors, of course for that "low" amount of $$ what can you expect?

[all_heart]

Bruce has lost a step... sure... That still doesn't negate the fact that as recent as last season (on limited minutes, no less) Bruce still

did a hell of a job on Vince Carter...
frustrated the typically stoic Brandon Roy...
did an admirable job on Ben Gordon, and Rip Hamilton...
And remember that game against the Pacers when Granger was going off?? Enter Bruce... Spurs' win.
Leandro Barbosa was his new B^#$& after Marion left the Suns...
Who was put in the games to shutdown Dallas' guard combo of Jason Terry and Barea?? A tandem of Bruce and Hill. Too bad Pop didn't recognize the benefits of this adjustment until it was too late...
And to top it off Bruce can always be counted on shutting down Peja (who's also getting up there age)...

As for his play against Kobe... He didn't get many minutes against him last season... but Bruce forced Bryant into his typical chucker mode... Unfortunately, holding Kobe off doesn't necessarily guarantee a win against the Lakers these days... Not after Gasol's arrival or when Odom decides to play...

Durant was pretty much the only player last season that got whatever he wanted off of Bruce...

Bruce for the Vet min >>> minutes given to Finley...

The way I see it, Bruce would be the defensive specialist and Finley should be relegated to the Steve Kerr role...

Nice post, now I ask this, if a player like Hairston can do the above -minus being effective against Kobe or Durant, but is able to add some youth and scoring, do you still sign Bruce if he's available? Or do you sign the biggest C you can find to become the designated 15 min. 6 fouls type of player? Which is more valuable at that point? Honestly if Hairston or somebody else can become the teams "lockdown" defender, signing a big goofball may prove to me more valuable than signing Bruce.

[intlspurshk]

SPURS should let him go a few years ago. SPURS finally get it but the fans still don't and this kind of mentality prohibited SPURS to move forward and retool. Pls don't bring hm back

[AusSpursFan]

move on, he has had a good career, we need that roster spot to develop someone like Hairston behind Jefferson.

[superbigtime]

It's all about how SL goes. Wouldn't be surprised if it is still a wait and see thing as far as who makes the roster. I don't think anything is set in stone right now as far as Williams, Gist, McClinton. Do the Spurs even want Bruce back? I think no. I think Bruce still has it. Most of it, ha.

[FkLA]

Bring him back for his defense if the chance presents itself, no doubt...but his years of being a starter and playing 30+ minutes are behind him. He has become a way bigger liability on offense and his once deadly corner shot is almost non-existant now.

Also I love Bruce, but retiring his jersey would be too much. That will kind of cheapen the retiring of jereseys, and we'd run out of jerseys pretty soon if we retire every likeable guy's number that plays here.

[sabar]

I'm not convinced the Spurs have him in their plans. He is getting to an age where you fall off the planet in all categories: offense, defense, speed, athleticism. While he may have been a top 5 defender last year, he could very well fall off the earth like Horry did in his last year. I'm guessing the FO is forseeing this possibility. There is also a problem with playing time. Bruce didn't do very well at all in a limited minutes role last year compared to a heavy minutes role.

[FireDavidStern]

While Spurs fans should remember Bruce fondly, the Spurs need to move on. Bruce is no longer the defender he once was, and his game would completely fall apart if he loses another half step. His days as an elite defender are numbered and his offense dropped from what little there once was. It is time to let him go and try to keep us in contention for another title by not loading up on another 08 Horry

[pad300]

Bring him back for his defense if the chance presents itself, no doubt...but his years of being a starter and playing 30+ minutes are behind him. He has become a way bigger liability on offense and his once deadly corner shot is almost non-existant now.

Also I love Bruce, but retiring his jersey would be too much. That will kind of cheapen the retiring of jereseys, and we'd run out of jerseys pretty soon if we retire every likeable guy's number that plays here.

Anti-Bruce arguments should be based in fact. "His once deadly corner shot his almost non-existant now." There's this thing called NBA hot spots -
http://www.nba.com/hotspots/
.426 from the right corner 3, .442 from the left corner. The two spots where he takes the highest fraction of his shots from... Yep, that's really looking gone to me.

I'm in the bring back Bruce camp. He was our best wing against Dallas. He hasn't lost a lot on the defensive end. I'd have preferred (and would still prefer) him playing as opposed to Finley. He can play either SG or SF spot. 96 minutes - 25 for Manu - 30 for Jefferson - 20 for Hairston = 21 MPG for Bruce. Works for me...

[all_heart]

If anything I'd say more like 15 min. but you gotta bring him in early, he'll get all stiff and cozy sitting on the bench. It's a tough call with Bruce, he's a great guy but that doesn't win rings.. To me he's a much smaller part of the formula now...

[spurspokesman]

Yeah. Gotta get the BB gun back. :lol Come back bruce.

[MarHill]

Oh boy.....fickle Spurs fans!!

They were dying for the team to get younger. And the Spurs responded...this offseason by GETTING YOUNGER!!!

Oh my.....they actually did something the people wanted it.

And..still it's not enough?????? Oh boy!!!

We can rationalize all the reasons for Bruce to come back....but the FO made a decision and we as fans should give them kudos and move into the future.

I like Bruce and I'm very grateful for his contributions in 8 years as a Spur. But..nothing lasts forever and it's time to move forward.

[SA210]

Bruce has lost a step... sure... That still doesn't negate the fact that as recent as last season (on limited minutes, no less) Bruce still

did a hell of a job on Vince Carter...
frustrated the typically stoic Brandon Roy...
did an admirable job on Ben Gordon, and Rip Hamilton...
And remember that game against the Pacers when Granger was going off?? Enter Bruce... Spurs' win.
Leandro Barbosa was his new B^#$& after Marion left the Suns...
Who was put in the games to shutdown Dallas' guard combo of Jason Terry and Barea?? A tandem of Bruce and Hill. Too bad Pop didn't recognize the benefits of this adjustment until it was too late...
And to top it off Bruce can always be counted on shutting down Peja (who's also getting up there age)...

As for his play against Kobe... He didn't get many minutes against him last season... but Bruce forced Bryant into his typical chucker mode... Unfortunately, holding Kobe off doesn't necessarily guarantee a win against the Lakers these days... Not after Gasol's arrival or when Odom decides to play...

Durant was pretty much the only player last season that got whatever he wanted off of Bruce...

Bruce for the Vet min >>> minutes given to Finley...

The way I see it, Bruce would be the defensive specialist and Finley should be relegated to the Steve Kerr role...

:clap


Anti-Bruce arguments should be based in fact. "His once deadly corner shot his almost non-existant now." There's this thing called NBA hot spots -
http://www.nba.com/hotspots/
.426 from the right corner 3, .442 from the left corner. The two spots where he takes the highest fraction of his shots from... Yep, that's really looking gone to me.

I'm in the bring back Bruce camp. He was our best wing against Dallas. He hasn't lost a lot on the defensive end. I'd have preferred (and would still prefer) him playing as opposed to Finley. He can play either SG or SF spot. 96 minutes - 25 for Manu - 30 for Jefferson - 20 for Hairston = 21 MPG for Bruce. Works for me...

:clap

:tu

[TDMVPDPOY]

all them biatches he owned in the pass

will become

GHILL3 biatches, accept the transition fellas...the GUNIT is here

[Russ]

I haven't noticed the decline in Bowen's defensive abilities that others refer to.

In addition, other than defensive prowess, Bruce didn't have that much to lose anyway (assuming he can still hit that unguarded corner three).

Therefore, why wouldn't the Spurs want him back? I doubt that his salary demand would be exorbitant and I can think of 2-4 members of the current roster that Bruce could trump in terms of potential contributions.

Also, last I heard, the Lakers still have Kobe Bryant on their roster.

[Marcus Bryant]

38 year old Bruce Bowen would still be the team's top perimeter defender.

[jay014]

Fuck Bruce! Time to move on.

[Marcus Bryant]

Well, he's no Pops Kunta-Kinte, that's for certain.

[alchemist]

When you think about it Chris Paul ended Bowen's career with the Spurs.

[lefty]

http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/3169/bbwedgefinal.jpg

[howbouthemspurs]

i hope bruce comes back. With out him we would have only one championship.

[Pistons < Spurs]

The Milwaukee Bucks continue to make Bruce Bowen's $4 million expiring contract available, but word is no trade is close. If the Bucks don't strike a deal in the next two weeks, Bowen will be waived by Aug. 1 at a cost of just $2 million, making him a free agent sure to interest various rivals of the San Antonio Spurs, since Bowen is not expected to return to the silver and black.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?columnist=stein_marc&page=Chatter-090714

[ducks]

trade booner or finley to bucks for bowen LOL

[pad300]

There is a reason he didn't play much on a depleted Spurs bench.

Yeah, there is. Pop was playing games. Which wing player was better against the Mavs last playoffs?

Name one.

There isn't one.

Get over it. He's got more left than Finley. He may have more left than Mason. Especially if Mason continues to "play" PG.

[SA210]

38 year old Bruce Bowen would still be the team's top perimeter defender.

[pad300]

No, he sucked. Pop played him some as a last ditch effort and well.. he sucked.

Well, lets see what other had to say:

TiMVP's game thoughts on Game 4 vs. the Mavs


-Starting for the first time since November, I thought Bruce Bowen did good work. His D on J.J. Barea wasn't always great but he had a few fantastic sequences. Bowen's help defense was also very good, as was his rebounding. Offensively, Bowen was one of the few players on the team who obviously wasn't intimidated by the circumstances. If this is Bowen's last season as a Spur, he has nothing to be ashamed about concerning his effort in this series. He's gone from bit player to integral cog in record time.


TiMVP's game thoughts on Game 2 vs. the Mavs


-Gotta love Bruce Bowen. He didn't get to do much in the regular season. Pop seemed ready to send him to pasture. Come playoff time, Bowen is back to being a vital cog to San Antonio's machine. Defensively, Bowen didn't just look like he hadn't lost a stepped, the 37-year-old looked like he had gained a step. He was all over the place and whoever he defended simply hand no chance. Bowen mostly took turns making harassing J.J. Barea and Jason Terry. His play in the first half earned him a start in the second half and probably much more minutes going forward.


TiMVP's game thoughts on Game 1 vs. the Mavs


-Bruce Bowen might have been the brightest spot for the Spurs. After being locked in the freezer for most of the season, Pop quickly figured out he needed to defrost him if the Spurs were going to have any shot. Bowen played very good defense against Terry, drew a few offensive fouls and hit the only shot he attempted. He was by far the best defender on the court for the Spurs and for San Antonio to win, it's going to require a healthy serving of Bowen.


TiMVP's series summary vs. the Mavs


Bruce Bowen has another year in him. George Hill should really blossom next season. The Spurs should be able to fill out the roster with younger and better pieces.


I would take this to mean get rid of Finley...

Get a take on the situation that's vaguely supported by evidence will you, stomping on you this much is getting bloody boring... Bowen's familiarity with the system, skill level, and character say that if he becomes available for the minimum, you bring him back in. It's a no brainer.

PS. TiMVP didn't do a game thoughts on games 3 and 5 (or at least I didn't find it from a cursory search...)

[bishopospurs]

I wouldn't mind dumping Fin/Bonner for a 7 footer somewhere and bringing bruce back for one more year to add depth at the 3

[rayray2k8]

Is he coming yet?? :madrun

[Spursfan092120]

Just saw on WOAI that it was very unlikely Bruce would be back, and Milwaukee is having trouble finding suitors...he may be cut.

[picc84]

It'd be funny to see SA sign him to the vet min, and Pop play him only against the Suns just to piss Steve Nash off.

He's not done though. All he has to do is hit the open 3 and play D for 10 minutes off the bench. And i'd love to see him back in the league again, he's a great guy.

[Knoxxx]

Bruce = back would be fine with me too, but I don't see the roster space, unless we do a 2 for 1 or 3 for 1 trade. Sure, we are getting younger and need too, but having Bruce on the roster for some situational defensive situations would still be nice.

[GSH]

Bruce = back would be fine with me too, but I don't see the roster space, unless we do a 2 for 1 or 3 for 1 trade. Sure, we are getting younger and need too, but having Bruce on the roster for some situational defensive situations would still be nice.


It's hard to justify signing a project player, when the team is into the Lux Tax, because they actually cost double what you pay them in salary. You would have to be pretty damned sure of the player's future value to pay them double for sitting on the bench.

On the other hand, if Bruce were to sign a 1-year minimum contract, the league would pick up all but $825K of his salary. There aren't many players we could get for $825K that would have a realistic chance of getting minutes. Bruce would obviously have a realistic chance of getting minutes.

If he gets waived, and I think he will, signing him looks almost like a no-brainer. The only exception would be if someone really impresses in Summer League play.

I've been saying this, but nobody seems to believe it. The Spurs could do a 2-for-1, and dump salary at the same time. As long as the player they receive makes at least 80% of the player(s) they send, the trade would work. (The reverse of the 125% rule.) And since they are into the Lux Tax, every dollar they save in salary would really save two dollars. By doing that kind of 2-for-1 trade, and signing Bruce, the team could probably save in the neighborhood of $4 Million. That's nothing to sneeze at in a bad economy.

[FromWayDowntown]

The Spurs should offer Richard Jefferson to the Bucks for Bruce Bowen. Pronto.

[hater]

All I know is RC has not deleted Bruce's # just yet

[SA210]

Just saw on WOAI that it was very unlikely Bruce would be back, and Milwaukee is having trouble finding suitors...he may be cut.


That's cuz News4 doesn't want Bruce back.

[VivaPopovich]

if Matt Bonner makes the final roster but Bruce doesn't i'm going to s*** myself

[FireDavidStern]

I wouldn't mind dumping Fin/Bonner for a 7 footer somewhere and bringing bruce back for one more year to add depth at the 3

The only scenario where i would want Bowen back. Finely and Bonner are both under contract and we need to test the young guys so we can have proven guys next year.

Arguing against playing the unproven guys is arguing against playing Hill last year. The only way we can tell if Hairston (hopefully), Blair, Haislip, Ian are any good is to PLAY THEM! As for the bigs, we have 2 proven and a quality backup in Bonner. We need to fill the 3rd bigman and the 5th. It would be great if they could send Bonner to the 5th but not necessary. Therefore we need 1 of the 3 to work out as a rotation player and 1 of the remaing 2 be serviceable. This still allows one to bust out or get hurt.

At the Wings we are just as ready assuming RJ can do anything against larger wings as between Manu and Hill we can take care of them. If we could get rid of Finley than i would love to have Bruce back, but we are unfortunately stuck with Finley :depressed

[SA210]

if Matt Bonner makes the final roster but Bruce doesn't i'm going to s*** myself

[urunobili]

All I know is RC has not deleted Bruce's # just yet

ready to be retired...

[InK]

Bruce deserves a farewell season, for all he has done in the Spurs yersey. And its not only a matter of honoring him, he showed he is more then capable to be a valuable contributor for at least one more season. I hope he comes back, and that at the end of the following season, or the next one, he can say a proper goodbye to the franchise that gave him so much, and he inturn has given so much back

[SA210]

Bruce deserves a farewell season, for all he has done in the Spurs yersey. And its not only a matter of honoring him, he showed he is more then capable to be a valuable contributor for at least one more season. I hope he comes back, and that at the end of the following season, or the next one, he can say a proper goodbye to the franchise that gave him so much, and he inturn has given so much back

Well said :tu