Stein: Michael Finley released

[Sausage]

via twitter

STEIN_LINE_HQ

Just filed to ESPN.com: Spurs agree to release former All-Star and Stein Line fave Michael Finley so Fin can sign elsewhere before playoffs
-----------------

Sources: Spurs to release Finley
By Marc Stein
ESPN.com

The San Antonio Spurs have agreed to release former All-Star guard Michael Finley later Monday to allow Finley to pursue opportunities with other teams, according to sources close to the situation.

Finley was a key member of San Antonio's 2007 championship team after leaving the Spurs' longtime rivals in Dallas but has struggled to earn playing time this season from coach Gregg Popovich.

As long as the Spurs waive the 36-year-old before midnight Monday, Finley will be eligible to play in the playoffs for another team.

Marc Stein is a senior NBA writer for ESPN.com.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4956729

[Spurstro]

finally

[jag]

no way

[anakha]

There goes one of Fabbs's talking points.

[HarlemHeat37]

Wait?! Is this true?!..don't toy with my emotions please..

[Kool Bob Love]

http://i317.photobucket.com/albums/mm375/Niketalk_Bucket/1238157980_scanners_-_head_explosio.gif

[yavozerb]

:stfu:stfu...no way

[SA210]

Read my sig

[DesignatedT]

hahaha. pop with the bitchslap on all you haters.

[Dex]

http://www.snarkypants.com/wp-content//WTF.jpg

[Dex]

I need to see a non-twitter source before I'll believe this ish.

Definitely plastered all over Stein's page though.

[HarlemHeat37]

If this is true, I wish Fin the best..class act, good contributor to our 2007 title, made some clutch shots, apparently helped the youth out a lot according to Hairston and Williams(when he was here)..his time in the NBA should be over, but I hope he finds a team to sign him if he's still interested in playing..

Pop might have seen the light after all..

[ElNono]

Thank you Fin....






now GTFO

[DesignatedT]

stein is pretty reliable... i believe this... the way finley was sprawled out on the bench last game... i have a feeling he knew this was coming already.

[jag]

Read my sig

Go away. you're living in a fantasy world.

[Dex]

Weird turn of events. I wonder if Finley was pouting about playing time.

He seemed to really enjoy being with this team, and always seemed like the consummate professional. Really didn't see this one coming.

[lurker23]

Here's the link:

http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ

I can also confirm independently from my sources that this is true. The issue seems to be playing time.

[ElNono]

I wonder if he will end up in Dallas...

[SenorSpur]

If this is true, perhaps this indicates Pop is committed to giving Hairston some much needed time. However does this provide us some insight on how Pop is viewing the rest of this season?

[TJastal]

I wouldn't get too overly excited here. Pop is just tossing out the old Finley in order to bring in the new Finley (Bogawns).

[DesignatedT]

Weird turn of events. I wonder if Finley was pouting about playing time.

He seemed to really enjoy being with this team, and always seemed like the consummate professional. Really didn't see this one coming.

doubt he was bitching about it, but the spurs and pop probably sat him down after the houston game and said that there going to go try to do this thing without him and gave him the choice of riding the pine or taking his chances elsewhere.

[ElNono]

Also, do the Spurs save tax money with this move?

[Sausage]

I know it's a business of "what have you done for me lately", but Finley has been a class act during his time in San Antonio. I'm glad we were able to get him a ring and not the Mavericks. I know his time in San Antonio came to a sort of ugly end, but he was a true Spur.

[DesignatedT]

I know it's a business of "what have you done for me lately", but Finley has been a class act during his time in San Antonio. I'm glad we were able to get him a ring and not the Mavericks. I know his time in San Antonio came to a sort of ugly end, but he was a true Spur.

yep. :tu to Findog

[mexicanjunior]

If only Bogans would ask for the same treatment...

[Old School 44]

I wonder if he will end up in Dallas...

Maybe after he kicks Terry in the nuts. :lol

[Ditty]

yes!!!!!!!!!!1

[SpursRulez4eVeR]

no way!!!!....pop and fin broke up????

[Siebzehn50]

Wow, big surprise. Would have been nice if he had just not taken that Player Option though

[spursfan09]

Awww, well thanks Fin for being classy and helping the Spurs win in 07!

[sa_kid20]

Man I didn't see this one coming. I kinda wish we could have at least kept him around in a suit since he's a great locker room guy but if he wants to try to sign with a contender I fully understand and respect that. Thanks for everything Fin :tu

[DesignatedT]

Hmm interesting. Let's sign AJ Abrams for the rest of the season for guard insurance in case Tony needs rest. However, Fin should not have been active yesterday. I noticed that Pop made a legit effort to avoid small ball, which is good against the Suns. But when McDyess went down it just happened to be when it was Tim's turn to rest in the rotation. So Pop went small. Thank goodness Antonio came back, but that should have been Ian's chance to play, too bad he was not active because of Finley.

rather just take my chances with hairston and ian then bringing anybody else in.

[lurker23]

Here's the link:

http://twitter.com/STEIN_LINE_HQ

I can also confirm independently from my sources that this is true. The issue seems to be playing time.

To clarify, the split was amicable as far as I can tell, and was at Finley's request.

No word yet on the financials of the deal, but obviously the Spurs will have to sign a 13th player.

[Juanobili]

oh fuckkk

[Creation88]

Thank god.

[romain.star]

here come the balls licking after months of insults

moi je tourne ma veste... toujours du bon côté

[Old School 44]

Thanks to Fin! Seems like a nice guy. :toast

I just wonder what playoff bound team will pick him up and give him any more minutes than he could possibly get with the Spurs?

[SenorSpur]

Surprising move. Totally support it.

From a Pop perspective, what does this say about this season?

[Libri]

Get out of here!! Really?!

I didn't expect this.

[Chomag]

Can Bogans go with him?

On a side note. Alot of people don't seem to want to play with Pop anymore. Be it Mason, Finely and even Heslip(sp?) They are all saying the same thing.

[urunobili]

Dwayne Jones plz...

Thanks Fin :tu I thought you were staying as part of the coaching staff... good luck getting another ring with the Mavs...

[Old School 44]

Can Bogans go with him?

That's probably why he's leaving. He couldn't believe Bogans was in the rotation ahead of him.

[Libri]

Spurs could be preparing to pick someone off waivers.

[HarlemHeat37]

Charlotte seems like it could be the most likely destination for Finley..they need shooting and they were going to sign Larry Hughes, but he's going to be out for a while, so they decided not to..

[easy7]

Times, they are a-changing. Let the youth run wild...

[urunobili]

Charlotte seems like it could be the most likely destination for Finley..they need shooting and they were going to sign Larry Hughes, but he's going to be out for a while, so they decided not to..

Agreed.

Remember Fin is a Jordan brand endorsee and it makes a lot of sense...

I would bet money on this :king

[SenorSpur]

Despite Finley having been the one to exercise his player option, this looks like an admission that Finley being on this year's team was a bad idea from the jump.

Too bad the Spurs don't have a John Salmons to throw into the mix in his place.

[xtremesteven33]

So there is no Pop/Fin conspiracy??

[urunobili]

Despite Finley having been the one to exercise his player option, this looks like an admission that Finley being on this year's team was a bad idea from the jump.

Too bad the Spurs don't have a John Salmons to throw into the mix in his place.

Senor... they have a Hairston :toast

[Chomag]

Times, they are a-changing. Let the youth run wild...

I wish this were true however Pop is still at the helm. IT looks to be more of getting rid of the old Finley and getting the new Finley (bogans)

I do hope I'm wrong though...

[angelbelow]

Wow... shocking

[nkdlunch]

this drops our team average age by about 12 years

[Chomag]

So there is no Pop/Fin conspiracy??

Pop has Bogans now. Sorry Finley but Pop has moved on to fresher meat.

All kidding aside though, I wish Finley the best. He is a class act and has been one of my favorite players since he was a rookie. Sad thing is even though Finley is pretty much done, he is still better then Bogans.

[Bruno]

Surprising move.

Spurs were too deep on the perimeter. One of Bogans, Mason and Finley had to go or to be in the doghouse. They all have been quite bad this year but Finley was the older so Spurs going with Bogans and Mason is maybe the best choice. It would be even better if Finley agreed to a buyout that saved some money to the FO.

Spurs have now 12 players under contract. They have 2 weeks to sign a 13th player.

[Bruno]

moi je tourne ma veste... toujours du bon côté

:toast
xVjaI9-8KbI

[timvp]

Fin has always been a class act. From all accounts, he was a perfect teammate and everyone respected him. TD and Pop have always raved about him. Plus Fin deserves props for turning down more money before deciding to come to San Antonio.

That said, this is a very good development. Fin's NBA career is over. It was time for the Spurs to move on. Fin can go try to win a championship elsewhere.

[Old School 44]

Not that I want this, but it wouldn't surprise me if they made a run at Z.
Even though many think he's going back to the Cavs.

[Quiet Strength]

haha wow I didn't see that coming. I was kinda happy that pop was now giving finley the minutes he deserves on the spurs. This is even better. I hope he can play well for another team.

[ChumpDumper]

AJ is a shooter who could easily slip into the Spurs system. Feed Tim in the post, let his man double, hit open jumper. Like I said he should just be signed for a 13th man spot.Can he play any D? There are some decent enough point guards in the D-League, but most of them suck at defense. I think the best point guard defender there is injured.

[timvp]

Spurs have now 12 players under contract. They have 2 weeks to sign a 13th player.

Yeah, I expect the Spurs to take the entire two weeks so they can save as much money as possible.

A third point guard makes sense. The rest of the positions have enough bodies.

[Libri]

Fin can go try to win a championship elsewhere.

????

Cavaliers
Lakers
Celtics
Mavericks
Magic

[Chomag]

Spurs have now 12 players under contract. They have 2 weeks to sign a 13th player.

We should have signed Theo Rattlif! Oh wait...

[Bruno]

Yeah, I expect the Spurs to take the entire two weeks so they can save as much money as possible.


Spurs could save even more money by signing a player only to a 10 days contract in 2 weeks. At the end of this 10 days contract, wait another 2 weeks before re-signing a new player. :greedy

[Sausage]

Sources: Spurs to release Finley
By Marc Stein
ESPN.com

The San Antonio Spurs have agreed to release former All-Star guard Michael Finley later Monday to allow Finley to pursue opportunities with other teams, according to sources close to the situation.

Finley was a key member of San Antonio's 2007 championship team after leaving the Spurs' longtime rivals in Dallas but has struggled to earn playing time this season from coach Gregg Popovich.

As long as the Spurs waive the 36-year-old before midnight Monday, Finley will be eligible to play in the playoffs for another team.

Marc Stein is a senior NBA writer for ESPN.com.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=4956729

[angelbelow]

does this also mean they realize they cant win a title?

[anakha]

does this also mean they realize they cant win a title?

I honestly doubt Finley was the difference between winning or not winning a title.

[lurker23]

Spurs could save even more money by signing a player only to a 10 days contract in 2 weeks. At the end of this 10 days contract, wait another 2 weeks before re-signing a new player. :greedy

Two weeks- March 15
End of first 10 day contract- March 25
Another two weeks- April 8
End of another 10 day contract- end of regular season

Are teams required to have 13 guys in the playoffs? I assume a playoff eligible player would need to have a contract for the rest of the season, and not just a 10-day at the end of the season.

[galvatron3000]

So is Fin going to Denver then?

[Ditty]

is bonner next?:wow

[jiggy_55]

HOLY SHIT!

I guess good news for us Spurs fans who have been calling for the younger legs to play.. I just hope Bogans' minutes are to drop now..

[phxspurfan]

I doubt the Spurs sign a 13th player. I think Fin wanted to go because of PT (already been verified I guess) and the Spurs, haveing already dumped Theo, will just stay with teh current roster and hope for the best. They may be cutting their losses after the RJ debacle.


Even still, RJ, now playing in his natural position, may yet surprise and become the 4th reliable option the FO thought he could be to this team.

[ChumpDumper]

I doubt the Spurs sign a 13th player.They have to at some point, but it could just be 10-days as stated.

[tdunk21]

its on espn site...so maybe its legit news....so what next????are we signing anyone or givin hairston and mahinmi some PT

[poop]

wait...what? did i just read that correctly? no..no it cant be.no. there must be some mistake....what..i..thought..i..read could never, ever happen. no, i must be mistaken.

[Bruno]

Two weeks- March 15
End of first 10 day contract- March 25
Another two weeks- April 8
End of another 10 day contract- end of regular season

Are teams required to have 13 guys in the playoffs? I assume a playoff eligible player would need to have a contract for the rest of the season, and not just a 10-day at the end of the season.

I think teams must have 13 players under contract for the playoffs but salaries paid during the playoffs don't count against the tax.

[benefactor]

Wow...this is very surprising. I almost couldn't believe what I was reading. We will need to hear from Fabbs in this thread.

Thanks for everything Fin. I just wish it could have happened a year sooner.

[Johnny RIngo]

hahaha. pop with the bitchslap on all you haters.

Too little, too late. Spurs should have made a move at the trade deadline. Yeah, I'm happy Finley's gone but he really shouldn't have been here the past two years.

[ChumpDumper]

Too little, too late. Spurs should have made a move at the trade deadline.The Spurs weren't going to take on any additional salary for next season.

[Bruno]

does this also mean they realize they cant win a title?

Not really.

A good hint about Spurs' state of mind will be what they will do with their 13rd roster spot:
- If they sign or at least try to sign a vet, they haven't given up.
- If they go after a young D-League player, they are more focused on enxt year.

[benefactor]

Too little, too late. Spurs should have made a move at the trade deadline.
Yeah...that was one of my first thoughts when I read this. It sucks to see his expiring deal just go away instead of actually using it.

[lurker23]

So much for the power of expiring contracts. We have millions of dollars in expirings, and we decide to give away one of them and outright waive another. :shootme :lol Still, the small silver lining is that perhaps the ~$1-2 million saved from these two moves makes the contracts of McDyess and Jefferson just slightly more palatable for the owners.


I think teams must have 13 players under contract for the playoffs but salaries paid during the playoffs don't count against the tax.

Thanks for the info. I think we'll see 10-day contracts for D-League level players, with one of them getting to stick around for the playoffs.

[Chomag]

Too little, too late. Spurs should have made a move at the trade deadline. Yeah, I'm happy Finley's gone but he really shouldn't have been here the past two years.

yep, this and also the replacing Finley with Bogans I wouldn't go far as to say it was a bitch slap...

[ChumpDumper]

The Spurs' expiring contracts were attractive to the Spurs as expiring contracts.

Pretty simple.

[silverblk mystix]

thank you finley for being a pro while you were here and good luck!

I think this is a GREAT-GREAT---....no....GREAT move for the spurs...he was way past his time...maybe he can contribute elsewhere----and I hope this means that Hairston AND Mahinmi can STAY in uniform the rest of the season....

[lurker]

Stay away from Dallas. It's bad enough they brought Najera back.

[easy7]

Stay away from Dallas. It's bad enough they brought Najera back.

I thought I saw Najera when the Mavs played the Lakers and could not believe it. Man, that is bad...:lmao

[lurker23]

The Spurs' expiring contracts were attractive to the Spurs as expiring contracts.

Pretty simple.

True. And in the end, who can really blame them after the money they spent in the offseason, and the tireless efforts they've made to keep themselves financially viable for the future? Unless the dividend was a guaranteed championship, the money off the books was probably worth a lot more to them.

[Chomag]

One thing is for sure. Bonner and Bogans would never ask to leave or complain about minutes because they know that they couldn't get any minutes with any-other NBA team.

Ok, Bonner not so much but...

[tdunk21]

can we go sign blount for the rest of the season or anyone else??

[iminol]

@Da_Finster Thank you man for heart and soul you gave city of San Antonio. We as fans really appreciate that. Big up from Poland, bro.


On the other hand, I think :pop::fishing would send Finley to a contender as a spy.

[NFGIII]

I didn't see this coming at this point in the season. As many have stated Fin stayed too long and should have left prior to this season. Having said that I wish him all the best and as HarlemHeat37/Timvp both stated he was a good team mate and helped the younger players. A class act by all accounts.

[SCdac]

This really surprised me, but generally Finely's time as a Spur were numbered anyways, might as well release him now. Also surprised we're at 12 player, will be interesting to see what the Spurs do... Anyways, good luck to you Fin. You were a consummate pro, and I was a big fan. Still holds the franchise record for most 3 point field goals made in the playoffs with 8 three's versus Denver in 2007.

[MRduncan2010]

Bring freakin bruce is all they should do

[Obstructed_View]

If you love something set it free. Pop loves Finley, Pop does not love Mahinmi. Don't look for logic beyond salary savings here. Maybe there's another three point shooting wing the Spurs can bring in to start or to play the new 5 guard lineup Pop's considering.

[tp2021]

If you love something set it free. Pop loves Finley, Pop does not love Mahinmi.

good line! :tu
Pop must really hate Ian then. :lol

Thanks for all you've done Fin. But this relationship has reached its end for sure.

[sandman]

Theo and Finley leaving dropped the average age of the team by almost two whole years: 30.1 to 28.3

[Chomag]

Theo and Finley leaving dropped the average age of the team by almost two whole years: 30.1 to 28.3

yep, now if only Spurs actually played that youth...

[spurs10]

I'm glad Finley got his ring and wish him all the best...it's definitely the best move for everyone. Good luck Fin!

[Obstructed_View]

yep, now if only Spurs actually played that youth...

I'd have been happy if they'd played Ratliff.

[Cane]

Finley's a class act and he filled his role nicely; hope he does well..just not against us :)

Hopefully Malik and Ian don't screw up their opportunities.

[DBMethos]

Bye Fin.

[silverblackfan]

Finley was a class act and best wishes to him.
Great move by the FO to free up the time for the younger players. Hopefully, Hairston will get more time now.

[eyeh8u]

more room for bosh next year

[I. Hustle]

HOW THE HELL DID THIS HAPPEN? That was fast as shit. All it means is that we are going to recreate the twin towers. That's right... you guessed it... the great wall of BONNER!!

[Sean Cagney]

He hit some big shots here and played great the first two seasons here! After those he pretty much got too old and could not play that much anymore. I will never forget when he first got here and did quite a few dunks over Dallas in the season and playoffs, the one where he headbutted the ball was classic!

Good luck Findawg.

[Spurs Brazil]

Thanks and good luck for Finley

[Flux451]

Pop gave him another chance since getting injured, but FIn bricked his way outta here. Good luck broski, I have always been a FIN supporter, but now we need Hairston to take his limited mins...and eventually Bogans. Not likely, but one can hope. Pop probably realizes his neck is on the line and that line is getting shorter and shorter.

Pop looked over at his bench when DICE went down and saw FIN the power forward, Bonner the clueless and Bogans the high energy skillless warrior...eeniminiminemo...FIN your it, peace!!!

[George Gervin's Afro]

Thanks Fin, you are a class act.. oh and don't come back and beat us with a 10 of 10 shooting night..

[bdictjames]

At least Fin won a championship with us.

Hopefully more playing time for the young guns.. best of luck to Finley to whichever team he ends up with.

[loveforthegame]

I didn't see this coming.

Best of luck to him. Class act. See Mason? That's how you do things. Quietly and behind the scenes.

[Spurs Brazil]

The ALWAYS late EN

Spurs work to waive Finley
By Jeff McDonald on Mar 1, 10 01:38 PM | Permalink Save & Share Yahoo! BuzzYahoo! Newsvine del.icio.us Facebook Google Reddit Fark Twitter
The Spurs are working to accomodate Michael Finley's desire to be released so that he might find playing time with another team, a move that could cause a ripple effect on their own roster.

Nothing has been announced yet, but the team must waive Finley by midnight in order to for him to remain eligible for another team's playoff roster. According to league sources, Finley would only consider playing for another contender.

If the Spurs are to release Finley, it would leave their roster at 12, and would have to sign a replacement player to meet the league's minimum requirements.

Finley, 36, is in the final year of his contract and could be set to retire at season's end. He has appeared in just eight games since coming off the injured list Jan. 31, logging more than 20 minutes just once.

A key member of the Spurs' 2007 championship team, Finley has appeared in just 25 games this season, missing 28 with a sprained ankle suffered Dec. 5 against Denver. He has struggled to find consistent playing time since his return, and is averaging 3.7 points on 38.1 percent shooting this season.

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2010/03/spurs-plan-to-w.html

[blkroadrunners]

AJ makes the effort on defense but his height hurts him. Certainly not his strengh though, anyone that goes through UT for 2 or 3 years is bound to be strong.

My main concern about Abrams is that he's more of a shooting/scoring guard instead of a pure PG. Do you know if he has developed his playmaking skills from his days at UT? Otherwise IMO at least, the Spurs should pursue a 3rd-string PG who has more of a pass-first mentality since Hill and Parker aren't necessarily those type of players.

[FromWayDowntown]

Among the great joys of watching the Spurs titles this decade was seeing the obvious joy that Michael Finley exhibited in 2007. It was awesome that he could get that title, better still that he could do it as a key contributor to the champion (though he had a rough Finals), and all the greater that he did it after handling a lot of needless venom from Dallas with complete and total class. Michael Finley was a guy that I always wanted to have play for the Spurs when he was in Dallas (his tenacity in 2003 was a huge reason that series went as far as it did), and I'm glad that he got to spend a few productive years in San Antonio before he met his athletic end.

[Chillen]

Finley was a great signing for the Spurs in 2005, in 2007 the move payed off, he is a classy guy and great player on the court. Better to let him free than have him stay a bench warmer on this team. Will miss ya Fin!

[spurs_fan_in_exile]

Fare thee well Fin.

[scottspurs]

Finley was a class act and I wish him the best. I don't understand the comparison people are making with Bogans. Finley at the very least, was a very good player in his prime which can't be said for Bogans. Not that I'm a Bogans hater i just doen't see the comparisons. That being said I understand what Pop is trying to do with Bogans. He is hoping Bogans can provide some D which he has shown flashes of.

At this point though he has not been consistent enough and I am all for bringing back Bowen just to see what he has left. I don't know what kind of shape Bowen is in, but the rest he has received can only help. Worst case scenario would be Bowen has nothing left and we just go with what we have. For what it's worth I still think Bowen was somewhat productive last season, Pop was just trying a different approach out of desperation of needing offense because of the injury to Ginobili. Now that defense IMHO is the problem why not give Bruce a go?

Also I would love to see what Hairston can do.

[blkroadrunners]

I'd say no chance of going to Orlando, Boston or Cleveland..

I guess it might be possible to see him in LA, Dallas or Denver..Denver being the most likely out of the 3..

I'd still bet on Charlotte though..

I think it depends on what his ambitions are. If he wants more PT (like 15 min) and and to be a part of the rotation more, Charlotte is definitely the ideal choice. If he just wants a chance for a 2nd ring and possibly a few mpg during, LA or Denver would sound right.

[The Truth #6]

I wonder if another team has indicated an interest in him. I would think so, otherwise he's just ready to retire.

[blkroadrunners]

I wish Finley the best at wherever he goes. I remember when Dallas bought him out, I was totally shocked and estactic he chose the Spurs over Phoenix.He made vital contributions to the team and was able to help the organization get their 4th ring. Obviously he's not the player he once was, but I wish him luck at whatever his decisions are. :toast

[The Truth #6]

Though I can't imagine any team would really want him. Money is tight. I can't see what Finley is going to bring this late in the season and in his career.

[loveforthegame]

He must have a team in mind to sign with. No way he asks to be bought out if he just plans to retire.

So I guess Bogans is the new whipping boy now that Fin is gone.

[SPURSGOAT]

WOOHOO! YES!!!!!!!!!! :elephant
http://media.canada.com/b2e3de01-96ee-45ae-96ce-b2054095eb64/Sun3007n%20Fire10m.jpg
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_lmgVzs6K80U/SezW3jXx3CI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Lk4gX5NDlmc/ace_dance.gif

[Duncan2177]

Thank you for the memories Mike good luck wherever you play.

[rjv]

he did contribute to one title so thanks for that but it was definitely time to part ways. thanks fin and good luck!

[ginobilized]

Change is good. Should be very interesting to see which way the Spurs go with the 13th roster spot. Best of luck and thanks for the memories Findog. Always a class act.

[Duncan21kid]

Thanks for all the good games Findog.

[Brazil]

cal down it's just more PT for Bogans

[AFBlue]

I don't know if I'm more shocked that the FO released Finley or that they essentially agreed to pay double tax for a required replacement player.

[I. Hustle]

I saw Fin about an hour ago at a coffee shop. He was on his laptop and I walked by to glance at what he was looking at. Oddly enough it was this site and he looked confused. He probably didn't understand why there was so much hate for him when he was a decent Spur. I took a pic with my camera phone for those that don't believe me. It might not be the best pic since it is a cheapy phone.

Here it is.

http://www.angelsadvocate.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/gorilla_pc1.gif

[duncan228]

McDonald addition.


Finley did not accompany the Spurs on their trip to New Orleans for tonight's game against the Hornets.

[jb4g]

Best of luck Fin, thanks for the contributions in 07. Im not mad at ya for taking the option.... I wouldnt have walked away from 2.5 million either :)

I fully expect to see him in Charlotte within the week, should get plenty off looks off of Sjax.

[Xevious]

Interesting.

I still don't see Hairston cracking the rotation come playoff time, not unless Mason or Bogans go down with an injury.

But in any case, best of luck to Fin. He was a classy guy and a good contributor a couple years ago. Time to retire though.

[lefty]

:elephant

[lurker23]

@WojYahooNBA

Denver and Cleveland are two contenders who will pass on Michael Finley, team sources say.

[lefty]

????

Cavaliers
Lakers
Celtics
Mavericks
Magic
http://www.hopescreek.com/images/main_thumbnail.jpg

[toki9]

This season's been so strange...i can't remember the last time when we actually heard about a Spurs player wanting to be released/traded, let alone 3 in a season (Haislip, Mason, now Fin)...

[Baseline]

Wow. Best news I've heard in forever. We never should have signed him to this current contract in the first place.

Finley is the most overrated Spur in the history of Spurs, including old west spurs, and any spurs paleolithic man may or may not have worn.

[hsxvvd]

Excellent news, but waiving him so he can join a "contender" WTF?

That's got to be an alarming admission.

[VBM]

He helped us get a ring (and was close to a second had we sealed the deal against Dallas in 06). Worthless player for us this year though...peace Fin...

[mavsfan1000]

lol Finley must be really bad now. I think the time is up for him. Time to retire.

[ffadicted]

The thunder could always use a veteran at shooting guard lol

[tmtcsc]

I believe the Spurs expected him to retire at the end of last season or at the very least not exercise his player option.

He wasn't in their plans this year and his injury sealed his fate. I just hope that Hairston will be given a chance to play.

[DaBears]

Well enjoyed him while he was here, and glad to see we got him a ring... He knows as much i we all do that more than likley he is Hanging up the Jersey for good.. Seriously the article says to sign with a team that is headed for the playoff's what team out there that is headed to the playoff's would need him... He is accient, slow on defense, shooting thus far hasnt been the great, so please tell me how he would exactly help out a playoff contender..... Its not his fault though its father time, he catches up with all of us..

Best of luck Fin, your were a good player for this organization..

[austN Spur]

Kind of a surprise. Thank You Finley. Always welcomed to come drink on bandera road

[lurker23]

@SpearsNBAYahoo

Y! Sports: Cs considering idea of trying to sign Finley, but offer has not been made. Veteran swingman shooter would be welcomed addition.

[BlackSwordsMan]

spurs still suck without him
who cares

[DaBears]

I would differently like to see Hairston and Ian get some much needed playing time..

Hairston is probably going to be here next season, playing a bigger role in the roatation... Can kind of see it, other wise why keep him around this long and not use him..

Spurs remind me of an old mechanic shop, they use the old tools till they break down, when they do Spurs always have a back up they bring from the back....

Nice JOB FO, now get me my dam ring.......

[sammy]

Best of Luck Billy Ocean Finley! Thanks for helping us win 2007 Championship! This is a good move for the Spurs.:toast

[anakha]

Wow. Best news I've heard in forever. We never should have signed him to this current contract in the first place.



I don't recall hearing a lot of people complain about the contract back when he signed.



Finley is the most overrated Spur in the history of Spurs, including old west spurs, and any spurs paleolithic man may or may not have worn.

After the criticism (whether deserved or not) he's gotten over the past season and a half?

Look at how utterly wrong you are.

[8FOR!3]

I hope he gets his shot back, joins another team, and has success until he's ready to retire. Great player and amazing athlete back in his heyday. Hate to see him go, but it really is time. He's just not been there this year.

[TD 21]

Finally, at long last, Finley is gone. I actually like Finley, but his skills had deteriorated to the point where he had clearly outlived his usefulness. The Spurs don't receive the greatest wing production in the league, but they do have depth their and Finley was arguably the worst wing on the roster, so it no longer made sense for him to be kept.

This opens up an active spot for Hairston/Mahinmi. Now the Spurs won't have to choose one or the other and it also clears up a roster spot for a young player who could potentially be on the team next season. I have no idea where Williams (Marcus) is playing, but maybe the Spurs bring him back. They clearly like him and he'd offer depth at SF and (supposedly) PG, two things this team could use. If not Williams, then I hope the Spurs sign Almond. He's an SG/SF and a good shooter/scorer, who could potentially take over Finley's role going forward, in terms of having a wing shooter/scorer deep on the bench.

This also sets the playoff rotation. Whether Bogans continues to start over Jefferson or not, we know those two, along with: Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, McDyess, Hill and Blair, will be the top eight. We also know that Hairston and Mahinmi have no shot at being in it, so that leaves spot minutes to Mason and Bonner. At least now the rotation/roles are, if not ideal, at least cut and dried.

It's strange, but the Spurs no longer have a veteran role player on the bench. In fact, they only have one on the entire roster; McDyess, who's still a solid, if inconsistent, contributor. This is the youngest the Spurs have been in a long time though, with the only other "old guys" being Duncan and Ginobili and in the case of both, they're still playing at a high level.

[Sobe_Kucks]

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh24/kimble02/TOJ.jpg

TEARS OF JOY BABY!

OK so thanks for being the consumate professional but thank goodness the manlove is finally gone between Pop and Fin. Was he caught cheating on Pop with Theo? It will be wonderful never ever having to see a starting line-up that includes Fin and Bogans.

[DaBears]

I think either develope Hairston and Mahani for the future, Spurs might be able to bring in a guy like Larry Hughes if at all possible, he he either was waived or released from his deal last week.

But stay with what we got we make the the playoff's or not we have a good core of young guys, that have grown a great deal this season(HILL,BLAIR)... LEt it be the basketball gods will decide..

[Spurologist]

Thank you for your services FIN....especially in helping us in our '07 run but your time is up.

[024]

please play hairston now.

[Duncan2177]

Maybe they waived Fin because of Hughes?

[TD 21]

Draftexpress doesn't even have an update on where Williams is playing this season, not even stats listed. I haven't heard a thing about the guy since the Spurs cut him in training camp. With their clear fondness of him and his supposed ability to play all three perimeter spots, you'd think he'd be the logical player to fill the thirteenth roster spot.

I've already mentioned Almond, who I'd like to see the Spurs take a flier on, but here's another name: Jerrells. He too was in training camp, plays for the Toros, is a point guard and when Mason inevitably goes elsewhere this off season, the Spurs will need to find a third (true) point guard.

[baseline bum]

2 years late, but I'll take it.

[Dex]

http://cache3.asset-cache.net/xc/74693622.jpg?v=1&c=IWSAsset&k=2&d=77BFBA49EF878921CC759DF4EBAC47D0AA60E5C41F2D74A3 DB176D57B8F9CE33EA4E8E725E2BA26D
Thanks for the memories, Michael. Glad you finally got your ring.

[bigdog]

Class act and the ultimate professional. It was good to see him finally get a ring. Best of luck, Mike.

[DJB]

I guarantee the latest ESPN buzz will be that the Celtics are interested in this old dog.

[8FOR!3]

I don't get why you guys want Larry Hughes. He'll make you a lot less disappointed in RJ though, that's for sure.

[bigdog]

Larry Hughes sucks. I would never want that scrub on my team. He's washed up now.

[ambchang]

Fin was great for the Spurs in 06 and 07, it's a shame that fans of the "what have you done for me lately" culture kept bashing him for playing to the best of his declining abilities over the past few years. What do you guys expect him to do? Refuse to suit up and tell Pop he should be playing Hairston?

Anyways, best of luck to Finley. He was classy and did his best throughout his stay.

[Buddy Holly]

Fin was great for the Spurs in 06 and 07, it's a shame that fans of the "what have you done for me lately" culture kept bashing him for playing to the best of his declining abilities over the past few years. What do you guys expect him to do? Refuse to suit up and tell Pop he should be playing Hairston?

It's a business, you should be judge with a "what have you done for me lately" frame of reference.

[dbestpro]

Thank you, Finley and thank you, Pop. Maybe, just maybe things are changing for the better. Finley will most likely land in Dallas. Cuban will want to give him the going away and say that Finley is a Maverick all along. I think it would be cool and a great way for Finley to end his career.

[crc21209]

As much as I, we have bashed this guy over the past 2 years or so..he was a good contributor to the 07' title and hit some clutch shots then and in the 08' 1st round series against Phoenix. Great guy, class act, the ultimate professional...it was just his time to go. Thanks for everything Fin, I'm glad you got your ring here and not with a douche like Terry in Dallas. :tu

[temujin]

Mr. Finley, thanks for some good basketball and good luck with your next team.

Now,

BRING BACK

BRUCE

BOWEN.

[Buddy Holly]

Mr. Finley, thanks for some good basketball and good luck with your next team.

Now,

BRING BACK

BRUCE

BOWEN.

No. No. No. No. No. No. :bang

[Buddy Holly]

Now,

BRING BACK

BRUCE

BOWEN.


http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/7089/921w.gif

[AFBlue]

My best guess for a replacement would be any of the top 3 Toros left on the roster...Jerrells, Gee or Jones. Each of them brings a different skill set, but I'd argue that the Spurs could use all three.

Guess it depends on where the FO thinks they're most deficient.

[objective]

Thanks for playing, Michael Finley. Retire with peace.

And thank you Pop, or RC, or KGB Lindsey, or whoever it is that made the call. Maybe it was Finley's idea, either way, congrats all around.


I don't recall hearing a lot of people complain about the contract back when he signed.

there was. the reaction was even worse when it was discovered that it was a two-year deal and the second year was a player option.

[Ryvin1]

My best guess for a replacement would be any of the top 3 Toros left on the roster...Jerrells, Gee or Jones. Each of them brings a different skill set, but I'd argue that the Spurs could use all three.

Guess it depends on where the FO thinks they're most deficient.

I agree and honestly they could just keep either one in Austin, the FO doesn't want to spend any more money on a move what won't put it over the top, and unless someone who already knows the system, and that can make an impact, is released I see them filling the last spot with the cheapest option available. A Toro's call up would lock-in the rights on a player that could develop and they could just continue to play in the D-league. My bet is Jerrells incase of injury he could be quickly called up and we are probably most vulnerable at that PG as depth goes.

[AFBlue]

I agree and honestly they could just keep either one in Austin, the FO doesn't want to spend any more money on a move what won't put it over the top, and unless someone who already knows the system, and that can make an impact, is released I see them filling the last spot with the cheapest option available. A Toro's call up would lock-in the rights on a player that could develop and they could just continue to play in the D-league. My bet is Jerrells incase of injury he could be quickly called up and we are probably most vulnerable at that PG as depth goes.

I'm a Baylor alum, so I have a clear bias as to whom I'd like to see get signed. But, I also agree that there's some practical sense to signing Jerrells.

1) He has the best all-around game (points, assists, rebs, defense) of all three players.
2) He adds another facilitator (arguably the most important role) and is familiar with the offensive sets.
3) He protects against injury or overuse of the two current PGs on the roster.

[DDS4]

Class act. Good guy. Glad he got a ring with the Spurs.

[Obstructed_View]

So how long until the Spurs have to fill that spot on the roster?

[Obstructed_View]

I'm a Baylor alum, so I have a clear bias as to whom I'd like to see get signed. But, I also agree that there's some practical sense to signing Jerrells.

1) He has the best all-around game (points, assists, rebs, defense) of all three players.
2) He adds another facilitator (arguably the most important role) and is familiar with the offensive sets.
3) He protects against injury or overuse of the two current PGs on the roster.

My wife's a Baylor alum, and I'm a Baylor fan, and I think the only reason to bring in CJ is so people stop referring to Parker as a selfish point guard.

[Dex]

So how long until the Spurs have to fill that spot on the roster?

H-Q7b-vHY3Q

Sorry, couldnt help myself.

[HarlemHeat37]

-Marcus Williams is playing in China IIRC..I think Bruno said that a few months ago IIRC..regardless, he's not good enough to be on an NBA roster IMO, he doesn't have the physical tools to have a niche in the NBA..

-A lot of us didn't "bash" Finley, we always "bashed" Pop for playing him..obviously it's not up to Finley whether he plays or not..it's been clear that Fin was done a long time ago though, anybody can see this..he's still an NBA-level shooter, but he doesn't have anything else going for him at this level at his current age and with his mileage..he contributed for a ring though, he wasn't just along for a ride, he absolutely earned his ring, and that was the last year he was effective enough to be a rotation player IMO..

-Interesting to see that Denver passed on him..I'd be surprised if any other contender takes a look at him, it's obvious he's done..I'm gonna say Charlotte or bust..if the Celtics sign him, that would be ridiculous..they're so old already..

[DesignatedT]

Dont really understand the ratliff trade.... Wouldnt mind still seeing him at the end of the bench. especially once LA and DEN roll around.

[DesignatedT]

Wasnt there a rumor about devin brown being bought out... i know he still has a house in s.a..

[Obstructed_View]

Wasnt there a rumor about devin brown being bought out... i know he still has a house in s.a..

Yeah the Spurs need a fifth guy for the all-guard lineup Pop seems to be dreaming about for defensive situations at the end of games.

[Obstructed_View]

H-Q7b-vHY3Q

Sorry, couldnt help myself.

So they don't have to fill the spot? I thought they were under the minimum.

[phyzik]

H-Q7b-vHY3Q

Sorry, couldnt help myself.

One of the best movies ever. :lol

[DesignatedT]

Yeah the Spurs need a fifth guy for the all-guard lineup Pop seems to be dreaming about for defensive situations at the end of games.

dont really know what that was all about. rj on amare :lol

[gameFACE]

Not to say it can't happen but the Spurs know their chances for a title are slim to none. I hope they can play the rest of the season a little freer and looser. They could do some damage and spoil the chances of a bigger contender. Just have some fun, man.

[spursfan1000]

I love this move for all 3 parties.

Spurs- have a chance to develop younger players more
Finley- Gets to play somewhere to get more minutes
Spurstalk- no more fans hating on finley, but bonner has to be next

[HarlemHeat37]

I wonder if "letting Finley go to a contender" is just a nice way to tell him his time is done, or if Pop actually loves him enough to let him move on to a better team:lol

[TD 21]

-Marcus Williams is playing in China IIRC..I think Bruno said that a few months ago IIRC..regardless, he's not good enough to be on an NBA roster IMO, he doesn't have the physical tools to have a niche in the NBA..

-A lot of us didn't "bash" Finley, we always "bashed" Pop for playing him..obviously it's not up to Finley whether he plays or not..it's been clear that Fin was done a long time ago though, anybody can see this..he's still an NBA-level shooter, but he doesn't have anything else going for him at this level at his current age and with his mileage..he contributed for a ring though, he wasn't just along for a ride, he absolutely earned his ring, and that was the last year he was effective enough to be a rotation player IMO..

-Interesting to see that Denver passed on him..I'd be surprised if any other contender takes a look at him, it's obvious he's done..I'm gonna say Charlotte or bust..if the Celtics sign him, that would be ridiculous..they're so old already..

I agree about Williams, but the Spurs were clearly high on him and looked at him as a potential NBA player. The team needs depth at SF/PG and supposedly Williams can play PG (I doubt he could at the NBA level). This is why I brought him up. I think it will be Jerrells though. Not just this season, but even more so next season, the Spurs will need a third PG and it will have to be someone cheap. Jerrells is already playing in the Spurs system with the Toros, he's young and he'll make the minimum, so he makes sense.

With the Bobcats passing on Hughes, who's currently injured, I'd be surprised if they don't pursue Finley hard. Brown loves veterans who know how to play and the Bobcats have no wing depth, so Finley makes sense there. As for the Celtics, I get it, they've needed another SF-sized wing since Posey left, but Finley is the exact type of player the Celtics don't need, which is another old guy who can't move.

Dex,

The Spurs have 2 weeks after Finley is released to fill his roster spot.

[Das Texan]

This is a bit surprising....


I wonder if the Spurs go after an Antonio Daniels as an extra point now?


With Tony's health somewhat of an issue, a 3rd PG almost seems a lock at this point....


Maybe.

[gameFACE]

They've always had a 3rd string PG in past years.

[SpurNation]

Perhaps Fin got shopped and no takers. Now his best contribution for the Spurs and possibly Fin is to be released.

It'll be interesting to see how the rotations play out for the rest of the season.

This has been one of the weirdest campaigns to watch this year.

[DesignatedT]

This is a bit surprising....


I wonder if the Spurs go after an Antonio Daniels as an extra point now?


With Tony's health somewhat of an issue, a 3rd PG almost seems a lock at this point....


Maybe.

that is possible. has antonio said he wants to still play?

[bostonguy]

good move

[Bruno]

It's official:

http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/100301_finley.html


March 1, 2010
Spurs Waive Michael Finley

SAN ANTONIO – Today, to honor Michael Finley's request to be released from his contract, the San Antonio Spurs waived the veteran guard. This move will allow Finley to sign with another team and be eligible to participate in the 2010 NBA Playoffs.

"Michael Finley was an outstanding professional during his time with the Spurs," said Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich. "Both on and off the court he was great example for all to follow."

The 6-7, 225-lb Finley appeared in 347 games over five seasons with San Antonio. He averaged 9.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 25.3 minutes while shooting .417 (1,212-2,905) from the field, .382 (490-1,282) from three-point land and .849 (309-364) from the line. Finley ranks fourth all-time for the Spurs in three-pointers made and attempted. In 55 postseason games with San Antonio he averaged 9.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 26.9 minutes per game.

Finley was originally signed by the Spurs on 9/2/05. The two-time All-Star has also spent time with the Phoenix Suns and the Dallas Mavericks. Over his 15-year NBA career, he has appeared in 1,082 games and has averaged 15.9 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.0 assists in 34.8 minutes. Finley has also appeared in 101 career postseason games and averaged 13.0, 3.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 33.3 minutes.

[ace3g]

manuginobili

Mike Finley is not gonna be w/us anymore. Wishing good luck to 1 of the best teammates I've ever had. We'll miss him.

[skinsfan1]

Cant hate the guy, wasnt anything but class, hope he has success

[TD 21]

Perhaps Fin got shopped and no takers. Now his best contribution for the Spurs and possibly Fin is to be released.

It'll be interesting to see how the rotations play out for the rest of the season.

This has been one of the weirdest campaigns to watch this year.

Other than Bogans/Jefferson being the starting SF going forward, the rotation is set. Those two, along with: Duncan, Parker, Ginobili, McDyess, Hill and Blair, will be the top eight. After those two Mason and Bonner will play spot minutes and Hairston and Mahinmi will be out of the rotation.

Daniels was done last season and even though he's a PG/SG as opposed to Mason, who's a SG/PG, the reality is there's no way Daniels is a better player than Mason at this point in their respective careers (which means he wouldn't play) and I can't imagine the Spurs, at this late date, bringing in a 34-35 year old, who hasn't played in the league this season. That makes no sense. It makes sense for a young PG, such as Jerrells, to fill the position because he may be the third PG next season.

The team clearly wants Hairston to be on the active roster going forward and Mahinmi (even if he doesn't play) is necessary, so that the Spurs have a second center/fifth big available, in case of injury, foul trouble or when they get into a blowout game.

[Bruno]

SAN ANTONIO – Today, to honor Michael Finley's request to be released from his contract, the San Antonio Spurs waived the veteran guard. This move will allow Finley to sign with another team and be eligible to participate in the 2010 NBA Playoffs.


It's a strange wording. It's maybe the first time I've seen that.

It sounds like Spurs won't pay the remaining of Finley's contract. Between the remaining salary and the luxury tax, Spurs will save $1.2M with this release. For Finley, he will lose $300K if he re-sign for the min with another team. It's quite reasonable for a player who has won $129M in his NBA career

[EricB]

Shame he lost it so quick from 07 to now.

Good luck Fin, you were as David Robinson would say you were, the epitome of what a Spur should be.

[Dex]

So they don't have to fill the spot? I thought they were under the minimum.

Yeah, my statement isn't actually accurate. I just think of that For-Ev-Er kid anytime anybody asks how long something will take. :downspin:

[Ya Vez]

Don't they need to sign someone by midnight for that player to be playoff eligible?

[ace3g]

Da_Finster

To all my spurs fans, thanks 4 the luv the 4+ yrs I was representing the great city of SA. Your respect for me and what I brought to the

from Finley's twitter

[ace3g]

Don't they need to sign someone by midnight for that player to be playoff eligible?

no, you just had to waive a player for that player to be elligible, teams can sign anyone up until the playoffs start as long as they were waived by midnight tonight.

Spurs have to fill their roster in 2 weeks to meet the 13 play minimum roster requirement

[Ryvin1]

It's a strange wording. It's maybe the first time I've seen that.

It sounds like Spurs won't pay the remaining of Finley's contract. Between the remaining salary and the luxury tax, Spurs will save $1.2M with this release. For Finley, he will lose $300K if he re-sign for the min with another team. It's quite reasonable for a player who has won $129M in his NBA career

so this, and the theo cut how much money does it save? and what the cheapest they can pay to bring in a player?

[ace3g]

Da_Finster

....and one u should continue to support on their quest for a title. Peace & Blessings!!! Bye Spurs Bye!!!!!

[ace3g]

...team is greatly appreciated.Altho my time here as a player has ended, I know one place I can always call home. The team is still a gd 1,

[DesignatedT]

when will the spurs have to pick up that 13th player??

[ace3g]

2 weeks from now

[DesignatedT]

word

[Bruno]

so this, and the theo cut how much money does it save? and what the cheapest they can pay to bring in a player?

Spurs saved $800K with the release of Haislip.
Spurs saved $1.1M with the Ratliff trade.
The release of Finley have saved between $0 and $1.2M to Spurs (it depends on the agreement reached with Finley).

The cost to fill the 13th roster spot depend on what Spurs decide to do. It could cost them between $150K and $500K.

[Stringer_Bell]

Fin-dawg is thankful for his title and we're very thankful he helped us win it. I still feel I would appreciate this moment a bit more if he didn't pick up his option this season. :(

Best of luck, shooter!

[TMTTRIO]

Latest tweet from Manu. Interesting stuff

manuginobili

Mike Finley is not gonna be w/us anymore. Wishing good luck to 1 of the best teammates I've ever had. We'll miss him.

Also nice to hear Manu got his bags back after leaving them behind :lol.

manuginobili

My bag went to pick the Hornets up to Dallas and came back. Got it. // Mi bolso fue a buscar a los Hornets a Dallas y ya volvió conmigo.

[TD 21]

Don't they need to sign someone by midnight for that player to be playoff eligible?

No, players just need to be bought out, not signed, by midnight tonight in order to be playoff eligible.

[slick'81]

gl fin your a tru pro and a great teammate hope u get another chance to play for a winner come playoff time

[ManuTastic]

Don't understand why anyone would carp about this. It's win-win. Fin gets to try to find some PT somewhere, Spurs unclog the end of the bench a bit. No one gets "dissed," no one should be butt-hurt. It's not like he was going to have his number retired here...

[ducks]

Surprising move.

Spurs were too deep on the perimeter. One of Bogans, Mason and Finley had to go or to be in the doghouse. They all have been quite bad this year but Finley was the older so Spurs going with Bogans and Mason is maybe the best choice. It would be even better if Finley agreed to a buyout that saved some money to the FO.

Spurs have now 12 players under contract. They have 2 weeks to sign a 13th player.

mason should be happier now

[SpursNextRomanEmpire]

Class act and glad he got his ring with the Spurs.

[ducks]

Today, to honor Michael Finley's request to be released from his contract, the San Antonio Spurs waived the veteran guard. This move will allow Finley to sign with another team and be eligible to participate in the 2010 NBA Playoffs.



so mason and finley were complaining about playing time

:wow
no chemistry gee wonder why
mike finley class act NOT

[EricB]

Fin-dawg is thankful for his title and we're very thankful he helped us win it. I still feel I would appreciate this moment a bit more if he didn't pick up his option this season. :(

Best of luck, shooter!


So you think he should've turned down 2.5 million!?

[Strike]

So you think he should've turned down 2.5 million!?

I'm willing to bet Finley is the kind of guy who didn't squander his millions. I'm one of those people who wonders just how much money one really needs.

[doobs]

This reminds me of when Horry retired. He was useless for that last season, and was a source of several WTF moments, but once he left I missed him and his clutchness . . . even though I knew it was gone anyway.

Same with Finley. I guess I'm just realizing how much I already miss the 2005-2007 Finley.

[timtonymanu]

As much as I hated on Finley the past two years, I still consider him to be one of my favorite Spurs of all time. I'm really surprised by this move but it's good for both parties.

Thanks for the 06-07 run, Fin. And I'm damn glad you got a ring while you were here.

Peace.

[Chieflion]

LOL, who started that thread about Finley knowing he is done? Looking like a complete genius now.

[DPG21920]

What I wonder is if the Spurs will actually bring in someone that is going to be active. It can't be a good sign for Ian that Finley was made active over him last game when he was coming off a game where he played well and the Spurs knew Fin would be waived.

[timtonymanu]

This reminds me of when Horry retired. He was useless for that last season, and was a source of several WTF moments, but once he left I missed him and his clutchness . . . even though I knew it was gone anyway.

Same with Finley. I guess I'm just realizing how much I already miss the 2005-2007 Finley.

same here. Bruce/Rob/Brent/Fab/Mike were all great for us compared to the role players we have now.

[EricB]

I'm willing to bet Finley is the kind of guy who didn't squander his millions. I'm one of those people who wonders just how much money one really needs.


You make and get as much as you can when you can.

Im just one to wonder why people think its ok to rip a guy for trying to make money and think they know when "too much is too much" Who are you or anyone else to say how much someone makes is too much?

[ace3g]

Popovich surprised by Finley's request to be released



Spurs forward Michael Finley shocked Spurs coach Gregg Popovich when told him he would like to be released by the Spurs in time to be eligible for any other team's playoff roster.

"I was very surprised," Popovich said before the Spurs played the New Orleans Hornets at New Orleans Arena on Monday night, "but we granted his request."

Indeed, the Spurs negotiated a buyout of Finley's contract and waived him on Monday afternoon, hours ahead of a Monday deadline that would have prevented Finley from being eligible for any other team's playoff roster.

Popovich stressed that the Spurs had not "let Finley go," a connotation that would have implied dissatisfaction with a payer who had signed a free agent deal with the Spurs on Sept. 2, 2005.

"We didn't let him go," Popovich said. "He requested a buyout so he could leave and we granted that."

Finley will be free to sign with any team after he clears waivers, but Popovich defelected a question about whether Finley might be able to help another team in its playoff run.

"It's for other teams to decided if he can be useful for them," he said.

Finley, who was out for nearly two months with a grade 2 sprain of the left ankle, started the last game he played for the Spurs, missing all four of his shots in a loss at Houston on Friday.

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2010/03/popovich-surpri.html

[DPG21920]

Decoding Pop: :cry I miss my Findog

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Noooooo...... what are we going to do for a backup PF now? [/pop]

[crc21209]

Popovich surprised by Finley's request to be released



Spurs forward Michael Finley shocked Spurs coach Gregg Popovich when told him he would like to be released by the Spurs in time to be eligible for any other team's playoff roster.

"I was very surprised," Popovich said before the Spurs played the New Orleans Hornets at New Orleans Arena on Monday night, "but we granted his request."

Indeed, the Spurs negotiated a buyout of Finley's contract and waived him on Monday afternoon, hours ahead of a Monday deadline that would have prevented Finley from being eligible for any other team's playoff roster.

Popovich stressed that the Spurs had not "let Finley go," a connotation that would have implied dissatisfaction with a payer who had signed a free agent deal with the Spurs on Sept. 2, 2005.

"We didn't let him go," Popovich said. "He requested a buyout so he could leave and we granted that."

Finley will be free to sign with any team after he clears waivers, but Popovich defelected a question about whether Finley might be able to help another team in its playoff run.

"It's for other teams to decided if he can be useful for them," he said.

Finley, who was out for nearly two months with a grade 2 sprain of the left ankle, started the last game he played for the Spurs, missing all four of his shots in a loss at Houston on Friday.

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/courtside/2010/03/popovich-surpri.html

Sounds like Pop is crushed...:lol

[Dex]

No worries. Pop has Jefferson for PF now. :bang

Then again, reports were saying earlier that Jefferson was going to be kept at the 3.

Could this be...the death of small ball? :wow

I know, i know. Keep dreaming.

[benefactor]

The Spurs have three days off before the upcoming back to back. I'm guessing Pop will be hitting the bottle pretty hard.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Fin was great for the Spurs in 06 and 07, it's a shame that fans of the "what have you done for me lately" culture kept bashing him for playing to the best of his declining abilities over the past few years. What do you guys expect him to do? Refuse to suit up and tell Pop he should be playing Hairston?

Anyways, best of luck to Finley. He was classy and did his best throughout his stay.


People bashed him because he could have retired last summer, instead of sticking around to play the role of rotting perimeter corpse that Pop loves for corporate knowledge.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

I wonder if "letting Finley go to a contender" is just a nice way to tell him his time is done, or if Pop actually loves him enough to let him move on to a better team:lol

Probably more of a strategic move - get some dumbass team in the West to pick him up and give him quality PT :lol

[DesignatedT]

hope we dont meet fin in the playoffs. guy will destroy us

[duncan228]

from Manu Ginobili on Twitter - http://twitter.com/manuginobili


Mike Finley is not gonna be w/us anymore. Wishing good luck to 1 of the best teammates I've ever had. We'll miss him.

[EricB]

People bashed him because he could have retired last summer, instead of sticking around to play the role of rotting perimeter corpse that Pop loves for corporate knowledge.

So people ripped him for thinking they knew what was better for him.

Got it.


Again, more people thinking they should make decisions for others.

[ChumpDumper]

Was anyone else actually waived?

[EricB]

Was anyone else actually waived?


???
Like in the NBA?

Mark Blount and Travis Deiner so far I believe is it.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

So people ripped him for thinking they knew what was better for him.

Got it.


Again, more people thinking they should make decisions for others.

WTF? What kind of logic is that, Tfart?

It was clear last playoffs that he didn't have it anymore. I swear, I think the only person with a bigger mancrush on Finley than you was Pop.

Good riddance to Fin, no longer have to worry about him being trotted out as a smallball PF.

[ChumpDumper]

???
Like in the NBA?

Mark Blount and Travis Deiner so far I believe is it.and Mike James I guess.

Not super inspiring.

[ElNono]

Again, more people thinking they should make decisions for others.

In hindsight, it would have been the right decision.

[Chieflion]

Portland is going to sign Travis Diener. He is going to be Brandon Roy's favorite player and Nate McMillian's new butt buddy.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Was anyone else actually waived?

Mike James by the Wizards.

[DPG21920]

If the Spurs sign Mikki Moore, I will cry.

[Obstructed_View]

So the Spurs can hope that Finley goes to a playoff contender and completely fucks them up by missing shots and failing to play defense. That's one fewer playoff opponent for the Spurs.

It's also interesting that Finley seems to know the Spurs aren't going anywhere.

[Spurminator]

WTF? What kind of logic is that, Tfart?

It was clear last playoffs that he didn't have it anymore. I swear, I think the only person with a bigger mancrush on Finley than you was Pop.

Good riddance to Fin, no longer have to worry about him being trotted out as a smallball PF.


Finley should have refused money and playing time from the Spurs? That's silly. Blame falls on the Spurs FO and Pop for wasting minutes on him, but I can't fault Finley for wanting to keep playing while his team is still interested (and while his contract allows him to do so).

[Scola]

WTF! I just saw the headline on ESPN.

So this whole season Pop plays this guy over other better/younger guys and then we decide to wave him!!!!

[EricB]

Finley should have refused money and playing time from the Spurs? That's silly. Blame falls on the Spurs FO and Pop for wasting minutes on him, but I can't fault Finley for wanting to keep playing while his team is still interested (and while his contract allows him to do so).


Exactly and I agreed with that at the time.

I didn't fault Finley at all, I faulted the FO for giving him the ridiculous contract.

Finley was well within his right and I held nothing against him for picking up the option.