Spurs trying to get Raja Bell?

[jag]

What else is out there in free agency for 2.4 million that is Bowen-like then Jag?

There isn't a single player out there who is bowen-like. I don't care if you make an argument for Bell to contribute, but you, and many others were acting like 2004 Raja Bell was running around in free agency.

[ElNono]

It doesn't matter if bell is unable to keep up with quality SG's and SF's. He's going to get reputation calls. Ok bro

None of the remaining available players can keep up with quality SG's and SF's.
Bell however is probably the best available of said players, and unlike Hairston, he can knock down the corner three, which is a need for us.
And if he doesn't work out, much like the centerpiece last season, you can always give his minutes to any of the other guys. It's not like we need to let got of Temple/Hairston/Anderson to sign Bell.

And Bell sure as hell is going to get much more of a pass from refs than any rookie. If you don't think so, you haven't been watching basketball for long.

[MaNu4Tres]

but you, and many others were acting like 2004 Raja Bell was running around in free agency.

:lol

Not really, Raja Bell would be great insurance on the wing that can provide 3 point shooting and defense for 15-20 minutes a night. Nothing more.

I wouldn't mind Spurs standing pat and giving Hairston and Anderson the opportunity, I would love it actually.

I just think Bell is the best fit for what is available on the MLE.

[jag]

And Bell sure as hell is going to get much more of a pass from refs than any rookie. If you don't think so, you haven't been watching basketball for long.

I'd rather have a guy who knows the system and has athletic ability out on the perimeter challenging shots than have a guy you hope can get away with a few vet calls.


:lol

Not really, Raja Bell would be great insurance on the wing that can provide 3 point shooting and defense for 15-20 minutes a night. Nothing more.

I wouldn't mind Spurs standing pat and giving Hairston and Anderson the opportunity, I would love it actually.

I just think Bell is the best fit for what is available on the MLE.


I wouldn't say he's lost a lot of lateral quickness. He may have lost a small step, but he still would be our best perimeter defender

I think it's obvious he's lost much more than just a small step. That's where we disagree. I think Bell would be a nice addition for the vet min, because i think they can do better with $2.4 mil.

[rmt]

Again, when i say the Spurs aren't forced to go with him, that obviously applies to both ends of the floor. Matt hustles, has good footwork and plays fundamental D. He struggles when he's forced to guard highly athletic players - Marion with Dallas, Amare with the Suns - and the Spurs couldn't play McDyess 40 min and were many times forced to go with Bonner. This shouldn't be the issue any more. His defense isn't changing, so if he's hitting from the outside he's a great asset. If he's not, the Spurs don't have to give him minutes, especially if he's facing unfavorable defensive matchups.

I don't understand when people say Bonner "hustles, has good footwork and plays fundamental D." What is the end result - does he come up with a steal or rebound or does he stop or change the opponent's shot? No - so what good is that hustle, good footwork and fundamental D? If he's not hitting from outside, he's not just useless but a detriment to the team (both in taking mins. away from Splitter and Blair and from overworking Duncan who has to cover for him). He struggles against all players and he's always facing unfavorable defensive matchups. Is there any favorable defensive matchup for Bonner?

I should just console myself with the high probability that as Bonner gets worse 3 years from now, Splitter will be getting better and that as that 3.5 mil of Bonner will look horrible, Splitter's pay will look like a bargain.

I think most posters are complaining about the years and money that he got. If he was getting 1 year at the minimum, no one would be griping.

[Obstructed_View]

I don't understand when people say Bonner "hustles, has good footwork and plays fundamental D." What is the end result - does he come up with a steal or rebound or does he stop or change the opponent's shot? No - so what good is that hustle, good footwork and fundamental D? If he's not hitting from outside, he's not just useless but a detriment to the team (both in taking mins. away from Splitter and Blair and from overworking Duncan who has to cover for him). He struggles against all players and he's always facing unfavorable defensive matchups. Is there any favorable defensive matchup for Bonner?

Gee, if only the Spurs had guys like Theo Ratliff and Ian Mahinmi who could play post defense and get blocks and rebound. When Bonner is overmatched and playing out of position against the other team's front line, why is Bonner the one who's blamed for it?

BTW, complaining about how much money he got is pretty stupid until we find out how much money he actually got.

[lefty]

What else is out there in free agency for 2.4 million that is Bowen-like then Jag?
Bowen

[jag]

I don't understand when people say Bonner "hustles, has good footwork and plays fundamental D." What is the end result - does he come up with a steal or rebound or does he stop or change the opponent's shot? No - so what good is that hustle, good footwork and fundamental D? If he's not hitting from outside, he's not just useless but a detriment to the team (both in taking mins. away from Splitter and Blair and from overworking Duncan who has to cover for him). He struggles against all players and he's always facing unfavorable defensive matchups. Is there any favorable defensive matchup for Bonner?

I should just console myself with the high probability that as Bonner gets worse 3 years from now, Splitter will be getting better and that as that 3.5 mil of Bonner will look horrible, Splitter's pay will look like a bargain.

I think most posters are complaining about the years and money that he got. If he was getting 1 year at the minimum, no one would be griping.

Bonner knows the system and isn't a guy who's going to leave you hanging on defensive rotations. At best he gets a hand up, challenges the shot and stays out of foul trouble. I already agreed with you on the bold part. If he does hit from the outside, though, he's great for the entire Spurs offense. Not sure why the Spurs gave him that deal, maybe he had other offers...who knows? With depth at PF/C, I expect the Spurs to be smart with Bonner's minutes.


When Bonner is overmatched and playing out of position against the other team's front line, why is Bonner the one who's blamed for it?

[EricB]

Shame Duncan couldn't Do a little recruiting himself...

[TJastal]

I heard Raja Bell has learned to use a new technique to slow down opposing penetrators. By focusing his "KI" (taught by a super secret martial artist who wishes to remain anonymous) he can actually form short bursts of energy waves generated from high pitched screams that only a canine can hear. So in effect he can trip, push, grab, or pull opponents using only his vocal cords while clueless referees can't stop him.

This will totally rock dudes! No wonder Kobe wants him!

[ElNono]

Gee, if only the Spurs had guys like Theo Ratliff and Ian Mahinmi who could play post defense and get blocks and rebound. When Bonner is overmatched and playing out of position against the other team's front line, why is Bonner the one who's blamed for it?

If we're looking for rebounding we have a really short kid that rebounds at twice the rate, but gets half the minutes... just sayin'

[21_Blessings]

Shame Duncan couldn't Do a little recruiting himself...

He's too busy playing the shit out Starcraft 2 with D-Rob.

[Man In Black]

The other consideration is that keeping Bell away from the Lakers forces Bryant to continue to play heavy minutes. With Brown opting out, that leaves Vujasuck as his primary backup. IF the Spurs get Bell, that reason alone helps them against the Lakers.

[lefty]

Lakers trying to get Bell ?

http://www.sportsbookgurus.com/news/...e-to-la-lakers (http://www.sportsbookgurus.com/news/kobe-bryant-raja-bell-to-discuss-move-to-la-lakers)

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant will meet with free agent guard Raja Bell to discuss a possible move to L.A. The two had a heated rivalry when Bell played for the Phoenix Suns, but now Bryant needs Bell’s talents on the Lakers if he is to compete with the new “Big Three” of the Miami Heat. The two are scheduled to meet Wednesday in L.A. to discuss the numbers it would take to bring Bell to the Lakers. Bell will make the trip to attend ESPN’s ESPY awards show, and meet the 2008 NBA (http://www.sportsbookgurus.com/nba.html) MVP. Bell has admitted to reporters that he has already had several telephone conversations with Bryant.
The rivalry between Bell and Bryant climaxed in the 2006 NBA playoffs. The Suns knocked out the Lakers in a seven-game fight to advance to the second round. In the fifth game of that series, Bell hit Bryant with a clothesline that defined the animosity shown by the two teams towards each other.
Since his run with the Suns, Bell has been playing for the irrelevant Charlotte Bobcats and Golden State Warriors. Bell was traded to the Bobcats along with Boris Diaw and Sean Singletary, for Jason Richardson and Jared Dudley.
Bell was again traded in 2009, this time to the Golden State Warriors, for Stephen Jackson and Acie Law. At the conclusion of the 2009 NBA season he was released by the Warriors, allowing the Lakers to take steps to sign the 33-year old.
The Lakers have been making key off-season moves so far this summer. They signed the former Portland Trailblazer and L.A. Clipper point guard Steve Blake. Signing Blake means the Lakers have $1.8 million left in salary cap room to offer Bell.
Phil Jackson’s backcourt is also bolstered by the recent resigning of Derek Fisher to the club. Fisher was a key piece of the Lakers’ championship puzzle last season, and the Heat took notice by trying to sign him. Shannon Brown also has not ruled out coming back to the team for a chance at another title.
Bryant is reportedly ready to put the past behind them in order to complete his second three-peat of his career. Kobe has obviously been paying attention to NBA news while watching the World Cup (http://www.sportsbookgurus.com/sports/soccer/2010-world-cup/index.html) in South Africa. He could be feeling the breath of Dwyane Wade, and his new Heat teammates Chris Bosh and LeBron James down the back of his neck.
NBA sportsbooks (http://www.sportsbookgurus.com/sports/nba/index.html) have set the Heat as the favorite to win the 2011 NBA championship at 7/4 odds. The Lakers’ pre-season chances to three-peat have been set at 11/4.

[HarlemHeat37]

Raja Bell is such a bitch if he goes to LA:lol..whoring himself out for a ring after Kobe embarrassed him through the media..

[Obstructed_View]

If we're looking for rebounding we have a really short kid that rebounds at twice the rate, but gets half the minutes... just sayin'

And I am SOOOOO with you on that. I thought Blair should have been starting early into last season. Maybe he can now that there's a legitimate seven footer to start at center next to Timmy. That was the worst part of trying to pigeonhole Bonner into any kind of a real 4-5 role instead of as just a role playing three point shooter.

[ElNono]

And I am SOOOOO with you on that. I thought Blair should have been starting early into last season. Maybe he can now that there's a legitimate seven footer to start at center next to Timmy. That was the worst part of trying to pigeonhole Bonner into any kind of a real 4-5 role instead of as just a role playing three point shooter.

:tu

[TD 21]

He's probably going to the Lakers. Bryant is seemingly persuasive and most players seem to be in awe of him and even somewhat scared of him, like they can't say no to him. Also, he's been recruiting Bell since at least the beginning of free agency, which will make him feel wanted.

Sure, the Spurs have probably been in constant contact with his agent and have had interest going back to last season, but has Duncan or Parker been recruiting him? I doubt it.

You can look at it and say "the Spurs gave him a shot in '01", but they also cut him. That very season, he stuck for good in the league, so he probably feels like he shouldn't have been cut. Throw in the Spurs-Suns battles of the mid-aughts and my guess is he probably isn't overly interested in signing with the Spurs.

I'd assume priority number one is to win a championship at this point. I remember him being on ESPN during the playoffs and analyzing the Spurs-Suns series before it began and I could just tell that he didn't really think of the Spurs as legit contenders. The financial difference probably isn't big enough (I think $650,000) for him to go to the Spurs over the Lakers based solely on that.

Minutes and opportunity will have to win the day for the Spurs. With the Lakers, he'll be firmly entrenched as the third wing, with no chance to start or finish. With the Spurs, he'll have a chance to start and even on occasion finish.

[ducks]

lakers are talking to kurt thomas now
means bell said no

[EricB]

Uh no it doesn't.....

[MaNu4Tres]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slu...gentbuzz071310

Free-agent buzz: Lakers, Spurs chase Bell

By Adrian Wojnarowski and Marc J. Spears, Yahoo! Sports 6 hours, 40 minutes ago

The Los Angeles Lakers have long targeted Raja Bell(notes) in free agency, and now one of his biggest boosters within the two-time defending champions – Kobe Bryant(notes) – will be working to close a deal with an old, fierce rival, league sources told Yahoo! Sports

Bell is traveling to Los Angeles later this week for a visit that sources said is expected to include an audience with Bryant. After helping to keep Derek Fisher(notes) with a three-year, $10.5 million contract on Monday, the Lakers have one available spot in their rotation that comes down to Bell and Shannon Brown(notes).

The Miami Heat are tying to recruit Bell, but it appears the Lakers and San Antonio Spurs could be the two top remaining suitors for Bell.

The Lakers have a little less than $1.8 million of their midlevel exception left to pay Bell after agreeing to a four-year, $16 million contract with point guard Steve Blake(notes).

After agreeing with 2007 first-round pick Tiago Splitter(notes) on a three-year, $10.9 million contract, the Spurs have nearly $2.4 million left in the midlevel exception to offer Bell.

The Spurs had Bell in training camp in 2001, and always regretted cutting him before the season. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich helped persuade Larry Brown to sign Bell later that season with the Philadelphia 76ers and Bell helped guard Kobe Bryant in the NBA Finals.

Bell, 33, was dealt to the Golden State Warriors in November as part of the Stephen Jackson(notes) trade with the Charlotte Bobcats. Bell missed all but six games last season.

Bell famously dropped Bryant with a clothesline foul in the 2006 playoffs, but the two developed a mutual respect. Bell was ejected and suspended a game for the foul and complained about Bryant’s tactics in the postgame news conference.

“It’s a personal thing when someone continually hits you in the face,” Bell said at the time. “That’s the only way I can put it. I’ve been playing as hard as I can play. I’ve been trying to do a good job, I’ve been trying to be what my team needs me to be, and I continually get hit in my face. There doesn’t seem to be any boundaries or limitations for what he’s allowed to do to me, and at that point, I kind of lost my cool and I took it into my own hands.”

Bell made a league-high 205 3-pointers in the 2006-07 season for the Suns under coach Mike D’Antoni, but his role changed the next season under Terry Porter and he was eventually shipped to Charlotte. Bell averaged 13 points in 45 games for the Bobcats in the 2008-09 season.

[MaNu4Tres]

Bell is evidently the Spurs first option with Jones as a possible fallback.

[Blackjack]

Jones must be the fallback. That's why the Spurs haven't pulled the trigger.

[ChumpDumper]

Get someone over 6'6".

[Blackjack]

Get someone over 6'6".

Would be nice. It'd be nice if you could count on them to be on the court as well, should you sign someone.

[MaNu4Tres]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ys-freeagentbuzz071310

Bell is the obvious first option.

[TD 21]

lakers are talking to kurt thomas now
means bell said no

Just as Jones is the likely fallback for the the Spurs if Bell spurns them, Thomas likely is the fallback for the Lakers if Bell spurns them.

Then again, the Lakers are arrogant enough to attempt to sign him for the veteran's minimum.

[Blackjack]

Just as Jones is the likely fallback for the the Spurs if Bell spurns them, Thomas likely is the fallback for the Lakers if Bell spurns them.

Then again, the Lakers are arrogant enough to attempt to sign him for the veteran's minimum.

I'm not sure they understand they can't have both. Surely there's a way they can, right? I mean, they're the Lakers . . .

[TD 21]

I'm not sure they understand they can't have both. Surely there's a way they can, right? I mean, they're the Lakers . . .

Apparently Bryant is now recruiting Thomas. I can only imagine his pitch...

Bryant: Kurt, come join us man, we need you. Sure, you'll make less here than you will elsewhere and not be in the rotation barring injury, but at least you can say you were on a championship team if we win...and if we don't win, at least you can say you were a Laker at one point and got to be on the same team as me.

[ElNono]

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ys-freeagentbuzz071310

Bell is the obvious first option.

CIA Spurs :hat

[leslie chow]

Raja Bell is a better player than Mason, Bogans, and James "i warm wade's seat" Jones

[SenorSpur]

Apparently Bryant is now recruiting Thomas. I can only imagine his pitch...
Bryant: Kurt, come join us man, we need you. Sure, you'll make less here than you will elsewhere and not be in the rotation barring injury, but at least you can say you were on a championship team if we win...and if we don't win, at least you can say you were a Laker at one point and got to be on the same team as me.

Perhaps the Spurs should engage Tim in their recruitment efforts. After all, they both hail from the Virgin Islands.

[TD 21]

I've heard that they're not close though.

I get the feeling that shortly after meeting with Bryant face to face Bell will decide to join the Lakers.

[SenorSpur]

I've heard that they're not close though.

I get the feeling that shortly after meeting with Bryant face to face Bell will decide to join the Lakers.

I have that feeling too. You know Kobe can be a very, very influential recruiter, when he wants to be. Now that he and Bell have developed a sort of "mutual admiration" for one another, I would expect Bell to sign with the Fakers too.

[DesignatedT]

We can offer more money than LA. Should be a pretty tough decision for Bell. I know him and Pop have a very good relationship.

[Solid D]

the Lakers have one available spot in their rotation that comes down to Bell and Shannon Brown.

Tough decision for the Lakers, too. Shannon Brown has been outstanding for the Lakers.

A healthy Raja Bell in a Spurs uni on the perimeter versus Kobe Bryant sounds inviting.

[ChuckD]

I'm not sure they understand they can't have both. Surely there's a way they can, right? I mean, they're the Lakers . . .

Buss has no other income other than the Lakers, no outside business. They low balled Fisher this summer, and there was a question as to whether he would come back or not. The NBA isn't doing well from a profit stand point. I'd say they can't afford both.

[ChuckD]

some post content

How's Jonathan?

[Marcus Bryant]

Re-sign Jefferson.
Sign Bell using remainder of MLE.
Sign Jones using LLE.

Starters
2 Ginobili
3 Jefferson

Bench
2 Bell
2/3 Anderson
3 Jones

[MaNu4Tres]

Re-sign Jefferson.
Sign Bell using remainder of MLE.
Sign Jones using LLE.

Starters
2 Ginobili
3 Jefferson

Bench
2 Bell
2/3 Anderson
3 Jones

IMO

After RJ resigns, Spurs will only resign one more wing. (If anything; there's a chance after R.J resigns Spurs will call it an off-season)

[SA210]

Re-sign Jefferson.
Sign Bell using remainder of MLE.
Sign Jones using LLE.

Starters
2 Ginobili
3 Jefferson

Bench
2 Bell
2/3 Anderson
3 Jones

:tu

[DPG21920]

I think the Spurs are too high on Malik to bring in two wings if they sign RJ.

[MaNu4Tres]

I think the Spurs are too high on Malik and Anderson to bring in two wings if they sign RJ.

:tu fixed

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Re-sign Jefferson.
Sign Bell using remainder of MLE.
Sign Jones using LLE.

Starters
2 Ginobili
3 Jefferson

Bench
2 Bell
2/3 Anderson
3 Jones

Hill?

[Pauleta14]

Hill?

bench:

1. Hill

[Russ]

Raja Bell is not listed in the NBA.com "Players" section.

Ususally, that means the guy didn't play last year.

In fact, it looks like he played in only six games last year for two different teams.

The fact that two teams gave a player only a total of six games can mean but one thing -- he could be a bargain. :)

[Dro210]

Raja Bell is not listed in the NBA.com "Players" section.

Ususally, that means the guy didn't play last year.

In fact, it looks like he played in only six games last year for two different teams.

The fact that two teams gave a player only a total of six games can mean but one thing -- he could be a bargain. :)

injuries.... wrist surgery.

[Obstructed_View]

I PRAY the Spurs are too high on Malik and Anderson to bring in two wings if they sign RJ.

Fixed fixed.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

bench:

1. Hill

Hill is more of a 2.

[ChuckD]

Hill is more of a 2.

Po-TAY-to

Po-TAH-to

[DPG21920]

Quit fixing my stuff!

[Mark in Austin]

I get the feeling that shortly after meeting with Bryant face to face Bell will decide to join the Lakers.

Perhaps - but he should have plenty of good will towards SA - they got him to Philly. As Woj on Yahoo reminded us: (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ys-freeagentbuzz071310)


The Spurs had Bell in training camp in 2001, and always regretted cutting him before the season. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich helped persuade Larry Brown to sign Bell later that season with the Philadelphia 76ers and Bell helped guard Kobe Bryant in the NBA Finals.

[Man In Black]

I said that last night. Woj needed a refresher.

[mytespurs]

If Kobe is recruiting him with the opportunity to play with defending world champs & getting a ring, Raj will more than likely end up with the Lakers since Heat can't afford him.

So Spurs have to go to plan b,c,d..........

[ChuckD]

If Kobe is recruiting him with the opportunity to play with defending world champs & getting a ring, Raj will more than likely end up with the Lakers since Heat can't afford him.
That didn't work for the Spurs in 2007 with Grant Hill. Some players have too much pride to jump on a champion bandwagon, let alone a repeat bandwagon that has an expiration date of next summer when Phildo is retiring. They'd rather take on the champ. Raja has always seemed like he had a bit of a chip on his shoulder, as opposed to being the buddy/sidekick.

[Obstructed_View]

That didn't work for the Spurs in 2007 with Grant Hill. Some players have too much pride to jump on a champion bandwagon, let alone a repeat bandwagon that has an expiration date of next summer when Phildo is retiring. They'd rather take on the champ. Raja has always seemed like he had a bit of a chip on his shoulder, as opposed to being the buddy/sidekick.

I think Lebron swallowing his manhood and deserting a sinking ship to bolt to someone else's team is going to open the floodgates. Basically anyone that runs to a contender other than the Heat is just stepping up to challenge them. Welcome to the mercenary NBA.

[ChumpDumper]

How's Jonathan?Your callback is noted and appreciated.

[mountainballer]

Perhaps the Spurs should engage Tim in their recruitment efforts. After all, they both hail from the Virgin Islands.

Bell left VI as a little child and grew up in Miami. so i don't think there is much relationship based on this. however, a recruitment call from Tim should help in any case.

[mountainballer]

Bell declared he wants to play for Miami some weeks ago. he likely assumed it won't be for the minimum though. he turns 34 soon, so the lengths of a contract might be the crucial criteria. for sure he will be looking for a 2nd year, if not even a 3rd. Spurs can offer this, Heat can't.
My guess is, if Spurs offer a deal like 2.4 + 2.6 + 2.8 (50% guaranteed) he will bite. can't see him leave about 6 million in guaranteed money on the table.

[lotr1trekkie]

Today,Monroe seemed to indicate that Bell was leaning our way. As part of second unit with Hill, Blair, Tiago and Anderson, that would be formidible IMO

[CubanMustGo]

Today,Monroe seemed to indicate that Bell was leaning our way. As part of second unit with Hill, Blair, Tiago and Anderson, that would be formidible IMO

The only other source I can find this morning linking Bell and the Spurs is Yahoo's Woj: http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ys-freeagentbuzz071310


[...]
After agreeing with 2007 first-round pick Tiago Splitter(notes) on a three-year, $10.9 million contract, the Spurs have nearly $2.4 million left in the midlevel exception to offer Bell.

The Spurs had Bell in training camp in 2001, and always regretted cutting him before the season. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich helped persuade Larry Brown to sign Bell later that season with the Philadelphia 76ers and Bell helped guard Kobe Bryant in the NBA Finals.
[...]

That said most of the article's about Kobe meeting with Bell today.

[spursfaninla]

Where is bell getting minutes on the lakers? Behind kobe? Thanks for 10mpg...

Behind artest? Odom plays the sf minutes.

I don't see where he gets minutes unless kobe starts playing pg.

[tdunk21]

wow....another day of rumors and speculations...spurs just sign bell and james jones and start practicing for next season

[coyotes_geek]

Where is bell getting minutes on the lakers? Behind kobe? Thanks for 10mpg...

Behind artest? Odom plays the sf minutes.

I don't see where he gets minutes unless kobe starts playing pg.

How many more minutes do the Spurs have available? 5? 10? Are those extra 5-10 minutes worth more to Bell than the chance to play for a defending champion?

For our sake, I hope not.

[tuncaboylu]

How many more minutes do the Spurs have available? 5? 10? Are those extra 5-10 minutes worth more to Bell than the chance to play for a defending champion?

For our sake, I hope not.

He can play 20 minutes average in Spurs, backing up Jefferson (15 minutes) and playing in SG position sometimes (5 minutes).

We don't know what Bell shoose? Spurs can offer more money and playing time to Bell, Lakers offers a better chance to win a ring. It's up to him, he can choose whatever he wants.

[dbestpro]

A signing of Bell means that Hill will be used primarily as a PG. Hill is a PG mainly because Pop says so. If Hill excels it could mean TP could still be shipped out for quality by the mid season trade deadline.

[oligarchy]

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/chicago-bulls-confidential/2010/07/bulls-interested-in-raja-bell.html

The Los Angeles Times reports that the Bulls have interest in Raja Bell, a free agent shooting guardwho was waived by Golden State at the end of last season.

[peacemaker885]

I always thought that Hill was playing point because he needed to. Despite playing the 2 all his life, he will not make it far in the NBA as a 2 because of his height. Against the Lakers, he did play Kobe pretty good, but there were a number of times when Kobe just shoots over him. It's one thing to shoot over guys like Bowen and Battier who are both tall ang long reach, and another thing against long reach but shorter defenders. This is not college ball anymore. Just my $0.2.

[slick'81]

come on bell come back and finish your career where it started

[TDMVPDPOY]

how about bostjan nachbar?

[Solid D]

Where is bell getting minutes on the lakers? Behind kobe? Thanks for 10mpg...

Behind artest? Odom plays the sf minutes.

I don't see where he gets minutes unless kobe starts playing pg.

Where Shannon Brown was last year.

[coyotes_geek]

Nachbar is only worth considering if the Spurs strike out on the Bell/Butler/Jones trio.

[tuncaboylu]

Nachbar was in Turkey las year. He won't come to cheap and his defense is not good enoguh.

[Mark in Austin]

Unless Chicago, the Clips, or NJ swoop in with crazy offers (and not sure if Chicago can anymore) Bell can make the most money in SA if the Spurs are actually offering the remainder of the MLE to him.

Combine that with the fact that it would be playing for a team that will be competing for a ring - and that he would be a key rotation player - Bell would immediately become the best perimeter defender here, and with his 3pt shooting he's as close as we're going to get to Bruce Bowen without a time machine. To me I like the Spurs chances.

(Funny, Pop calls Larry Brown recommending him, giving LB a key part of a finals team. LB calls Pop raving about... Jackie Butler?! Seriously, this is example # 186 why Larry Brown needs to STFU about GM stuff and just coach.)

[Spurgio]

Kobe lending hand to land Raja Bell
By Mark J. Miller

Kobe Bryant(notes) and Raja Bell(notes) have had their disagreements in the past but the five-time NBA champ Bryant is putting all that aside to meet with Bell today and try to convince him to come play for the Lakers for the $1.77 million left in its midlevel exception, according to the Los Angeles Times.
As Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reported yesterday, the Lakers and San Antonio Spurs are the frontrunners to land the 33-year-old Bell, who only played six games last year for the Charlotte Bobcats and Golden State Warriors. The Spurs have a little more money that it can give Bell, and according to Wojnarowski, are still regretting cutting him at the end of training camp in 2001.
Wojnarowski has it that the Miami Heat are also interested in Bell, while the Times reports that the Chicago Bulls, Portland Trail Blazers, and Utah Jazz all have interest in his services as well.
Bell won't make a decision till next week.

[jiggy_55]

I wonder what the chances are the Spurs can sign both of Bell and McGrady?

And I think if the Spurs do sign two old players (any combo of Jones, Bell, McGrady, *insert player who comes out of left field and is about 10 years past his prime*) then Coach Pop should really consider about once a month, maybe on second nights of back to backs, bench everyone over 30. Start Hill, bring Parker off the bench, give Tim and Dice the night off, start Gee, Anderson etc. Let the young players get their chance. Pop is big on experience which is why few players can actually get a jump start on their careers in San Antonio if they are not drafted by them.

I would love to have T-Mac or Josh Howard! But if knicks won't re-sign T-mac, than there's a problem with him. Josh Howard would be awesome if he isn't demanding much. But haven't heard anything about either of these guys, no rumors or anything!

[rayray2k8]

Kobe lending hand to land Raja Bell
By Mark J. Miller

Kobe Bryant(notes) and Raja Bell(notes) have had their disagreements in the past but the five-time NBA champ Bryant is putting all that aside to meet with Bell today and try to convince him to come play for the Lakers for the $1.77 million left in its midlevel exception, according to the Los Angeles Times.
As Yahoo! Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reported yesterday, the Lakers and San Antonio Spurs are the frontrunners to land the 33-year-old Bell, who only played six games last year for the Charlotte Bobcats and Golden State Warriors. The Spurs have a little more money that it can give Bell, and according to Wojnarowski, are still regretting cutting him at the end of training camp in 2001.
Wojnarowski has it that the Miami Heat are also interested in Bell, while the Times reports that the Chicago Bulls, Portland Trail Blazers, and Utah Jazz all have interest in his services as well.
Bell won't make a decision till next week.


Damn, it's gonna take him that long to think it over??? The lakers will wait on him, but I don't think the spurs will.

[8FOR!3]

Is he gonna announce it on a one hour special on ESPN.

www.espn.com/belltracker

[ChuckD]

Damn, it's gonna take him that long to think it over??? The lakers will wait on him, but I don't think the spurs will.

??? The Spurs are one of the more patient FA teams every summer. You have to be when you're shopping on a budget.

You must be thinking of their fans. :lol

[Ginnoobbllee]

Heard the announcers at the Spurs / Hawks summer league game say that RC was in the house. Surprised he wasn't back in SA working on contracts. Probly won't much happen for a few days while he's working the blackjack tables in Vegas.
:greedy

[timvp]

Heard the announcers at the Spurs / Hawks summer league game say that RC was in the house. Surprised he wasn't back in SA working on contracts. Probly won't much happen for a few days while he's working the blackjack tables in Vegas.
:greedy

RC was last official still in San Antonio. He was finishing up the contracts for Splitter and Bonner.

Wonder what this means for RJ . . .

[SenorSpur]

I'm glad, I don't want Bell, I know it is getting repetitive, but I'm tired of these 6'5 players

I heard today that he's probably closer to 6'3".

[alchemist]

he would've been a good pick-up, 3yr/10mil is a little too steep though.

[TD 21]

Well, that probably brings to an end the Spurs off season. I expect within' a matter of days Jefferson and Jones to be signed. Richards, we'll probably have to wait longer than that to find out, but as far as playing for the team this season (let's face it, Richards, if signed, will play for the Toros), the intrigue and guessing is probably done.

Given what's available, I can't complain with Jones, but his signing will mean that the Spurs won't have a single rotation player capable of adequately guarding Bryant, Wade, etc.

I assume this also means the Jazz are letting Matthews go, which would be an intelligent move. For the Trail Blazers, I've got to believe at least one of Fernandez or Bayless will be moved.

I get giving Bell a third year by the Jazz. He's significantly cheaper than Matthews, probably still better than him, but more importantly, they need to do everything they can right now to remain relevant in the West to keep Williams happy.

[Bruno]

No regret, Spurs didn't have enough money.

[Dro210]

Wow, why the hell is Bell going to the Jazz if he wants to play for a contender? :lol

Guess money did have something to do with it?

[ElNono]

Money talks :greedy

[MaNu4Tres]

Blah no quiero James Jones.

Give me Howard or Butler if possible.

[Blackjack]

Blah no quiero James Jones.

Give me Howard or Butler if possible.

I no speak-o that language-o but I agree (o).

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski WojYahooNBA

Agent for Wesley Matthews, Lance Young, tells Y!: "Kevin O'Connor told me that if (Bell) passes the physical, they won't match on Wesley."

[DesignatedT]

Jones can it the 3 but plays terrible defense. Barnes is the best choice right now. Butler sucks.

I dont even know what to think about Josh Howard and Tmac. that just wont happen IMO.

[ohmwrecker]

Butler sucks.

Butler can shoot. Barnes can't.

[Spurs Brazil]

STEIN_LINE_HQ Sources say Raja Bell also had firm two-year offer from Chicago worth more than $8 million, but Jazz trumped Bulls, Lakers, etc. Link on way

[DesignatedT]

Butler can shoot. Barnes can't.

While Butler is a better 3 pt shooter, It's not like hes a "good" 3 pt shooter. Barnes shot 32% from the arc last season while butler shot 33.6%. They are both pretty bad. Barnes' defense is better than Butlers though and he has a lot more experience in playoff basketball.

I would have rather had Bell.

[siraulo23]

While Butler is a better 3 pt shooter, It's not like hes a "good" 3 pt shooter. Barnes shot 32% from the arc last season while butler shot 33.6%. They are both pretty bad. Barnes' defense is better than Butlers though and he has a lot more experience in playoff basketball.

I would have rather had Bell.

he shot 39% with the hornets the year before

[DesignatedT]

he shot 39% with the hornets the year before

roger mason shot 42% the year before.... what's your point?

[ohmwrecker]

he shot 39% with the hornets the year before

Yeah, I don't think we should hold his Clippers stats against him. Not only is he a much better shooter than Barnes, he is a really good pressure shooter (ie clutch). You are right about Barnes being a better defender, but he is kind of a shithead. Butler is a better shot blocker, too.

[siraulo23]

roger mason shot 42% the year before.... what's your point?

butler is a better shooter than barnes

[DesignatedT]

butler is a better shooter than barnes

going by your philosophy we should keep roger mason. you agree?

and why dont you read my original post. you will see this.
While Butler is a better 3 pt shooter,