Richard Jefferson, Season 2

[phyzik]

We saw sporadic good games from him last season, so it could be just one of those solid games followed by mediocrity....

Despite that, its a new year and, despite his foul trouble, I liked what I saw from him tonight.

We will see if he can keep it up consistently this year.

New season, I'll give him the benifit of the doubt for now.

16 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assist in roughly 18 minutes.

I'll take that from him.

Good game RJ.

[024]

yup definitely saw some improvements. he will have to be consistent though.

[sananspursfan21]

i was happy with his output and yah he looked to be in sync with the other guys

[ezau]

He has improved. He looks really comfortable and he seemed to finally get everything. The guy is just going to get better.

[DesignatedT]

He looks a lot better out there. Just looks way more comfortable on the court and its translating into him being a lot more aggressive.

[HarlemHeat37]

He played well in this game, I liked what I saw, however, he's playing against a team that will be one of the worst defensive teams in the NBA this year..we'll have to see a few games against teams that play consistent and smart defense..

[Biggems]

He should have finished with 4 fouls...that block was legit

[Spurs Brazil]

RJ played well, attacking more and his J looks much better

[sananspursfan21]

He should have finished with 4 fouls...that block was legit

truth.

[phyzik]

I cringed the first half of the game when he clanged the rim on that 3 and then again on that free-throw, but I loved his aggressiveness driving the lane.

[TDomination]

Last year towards the end of the year, he began looking a lot more comfortable and was being really aggressive and I'm glad to see that continue

[ElNono]

I want to see him do this consistently. As HH said, Indiana might not be the best measuring stick.
Don't get me wrong, he played really well tonight, despite the foul trouble. Let's hope it stays this way.

[sananspursfan21]

really expect a change from him. last year's gone as far as i'm concerned

[The Truth #6]

He played well, especially in the first half. Also it looked the Spurs offense was more fluid which helped his game as well. This should bode well for the rest of the season.

[LakerHater]

http://oi54.tinypic.com/2nbhg28.jpg

[ducks]

played better then bosh and wade in game one

[SenorSpur]

The main thing is RJ looks comfortable and confident. The production is a byproduct of those things. Hopefully, there's more in store from him.

[G-Dawgg]

Mark my words..RJ is going to be the key to our success this season, not DeJuan Blair.....

[mingus]

I believed all along this guy would turn it around this year. It's no surprise to me that he played well. I'm sure it'll continue. His improved stroke will open up the rest of his game.

lots of y'all who doubted RJ will be eating crowe.

[GSH]

Mark my words..RJ is going to be the key to our success this season, not DeJuan Blair.....


Definite improvement, but I'm not ready to go that far yet. My biggest complaint/concern is that there were too many times when he couldn't finish at or near the rim. Going to the FT line is great, and something the Spurs really need. But if he could finish and turn those into and-1's he could really dish out some punishment. If he's going to be the key to our success, he's going to have to stay with more of those plays and get the ball to do down.

Don't get me wrong. I liked what I saw a lot more than last year.

[completely deck]

http://oi54.tinypic.com/2nbhg28.jpg

Cool, maybe you could give credit to where you got that from (http://www.poundingtherock.com/2010/10/27/1778962/quickcap-1-vs-pacers) next time.

[SequSpur]

Cool, maybe you could give credit to where you got that from (http://www.poundingtherock.com/2010/10/27/1778962/quickcap-1-vs-pacers) next time.

really? credit for what?

[smrattler]

Comfortable, confident, sure of himself, knew where he was... these were the things really missing from him last year. I believe Pop when he says RJ worked all summer making sure he took his experience from last year to come back better this year. If this is the type of game he plays more regularly this year, we'll be much better already.

[timtonymanu]

This is the RJ I expected to see last year when we acquired him. Hopefully it becomes a consistent thing though. But hey he outplayed his performance from last season's opener.

[angelbelow]

Obviously this was great to see him comfortable and productive but the season is young and the Pacers defensive was bad.

[pawe]

He was the key last season and will still be the key this year. GG RJ.

[Darkwaters]

I believed all along this guy would turn it around this year. It's no surprise to me that he played well. I'm sure it'll continue. His improved stroke will open up the rest of his game.

lots of y'all who doubted RJ will be eating crowe.

Maybe they'll be eating C.R.O.W.S. instead?

http://blog.norway.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/crows_common_remotely_operated_weapon_station_unit ed_states_003.jpg

[Obstructed_View]

I believed all along this guy would turn it around this year. It's no surprise to me that he played well. I'm sure it'll continue. His improved stroke will open up the rest of his game.

lots of y'all who doubted RJ will be eating crowe.

He was very good, but it was one game. Perhaps we should wait a week or so before we start going crazy over him. I'll be happy to be wrong if he continues to play this way.

[sa_butta]

Looked much better and more aggressive, I like what I saw so far...Hopefully he continues to improve and stays consistent for us.

[benefactor]

He was very good, but it was one game. Perhaps we should wait a week or so before we start going crazy over him. I'll be happy to be wrong if he continues to play this way.
:tu

[mingus]

He was very good, but it was one game. Perhaps we should wait a week or so before we start going crazy over him. I'll be happy to be wrong if he continues to play this way.

i've been behind him since the the off-season. i'm not making these claims on the basis of one game.

reason i believe he will be great for us is the work he put in over the summer and the type of player he is. i've no doubt that his shooting stroke will stick and he'll continue to hit threes with consistency. same way George Hill did last year: he put in the work and it showed. he's not going to turn into steve Kerr, but he'll keep the defense on their toes.

second, he's a driver, and a great one at that. people suddenly forget that this guy was one of the most athletic players at one time. he's not in his athletic prime anymore, but his first step is still VERY good and he's got a lot of upper body strength and a knack at getting to the line. the absolute key for him is to be able to have room to drive. so if he's able to hit the three it will have a domino effect and open up his total game. it also looks like he put in work with Pop to get into the post, which is something we didn't see last year.

i haven't checked, but it would be interesting to see how well RJ did last year where he had at least one three (maybe two) in game. i'm sure he had his best games when he was able to keep the defense honest so he could drive. i;m not sure about that so i don't know though.

[bigdog]

Not amazing, but he had a solid game. His jumpshot continues to look better than its ever looked. He was aggressive all night, and his D wasn't too bad. With that being said, it was against the Pacers. Not exactly a great team. I do expect him to be much better this year, however. He looks way more comfortable than he did last year. Good game, RJ.

[DJB]

The main thing is RJ looks comfortable and confident. The production is a byproduct of those things. Hopefully, there's more in store from him.

This.

I concur.

[jb4g]

He had a couple tough foul calls that could have been let go, in turn cost him a few minutes of PT. He would have easily had a 20+ point night, he was hustling for rebounds and tips, looking to cut to the basket often. Succesful game 1, keep it up RJ!

[Obstructed_View]

i've been behind him since the the off-season. i'm not making these claims on the basis of one game.


They don't play games in the off-season, so you're making these claims on the basis of one game, which is an improvement since you've spent the summer saying he's a good player on the basis of zero games.

[EricB]

I think one thing that could lend to potential hope is his shooting stroke is sooooo much better than it was last year, along with his conditioning. He also seemed to be moving quicker too. Loved his cut to the basket with Duncan high hitting him on the cut and drawing the foul. His defense also seemed improved to me, dropping the LBs should improve his mobility defensively and he seemed good last night in the 4th quarter.

[mingus]

They don't play games in the off-season, so you're making these claims on the basis of one game, which is an improvement since you've spent the summer saying he's a good player on the basis of zero games.

no, i'm basing these claims off of first hand experience playing basketball and what i've seen from other players in the NBA and not in the NBA. i don't need a numebr of games to justify my claim that he would be better. what you need is an understanding of the game, which in this respect, i have.

summer of Sophmore year of high school one of my coaches helped me change my shot and I became a vastly better shooter. Same thing with Tony Parker. Same thing with George Hill. Malik Rose developed a jumper. practice makes you better and it always translates to the court.

i've never heard of a player doing the kind of work that RJ put in and not come back much improved. so i knew it would happen first game, and i know it will continue to happen.

[Cessation]

Agree with mingus, RJ already showed improvement at the end of last year, he made impact in spurs win over the mavs. He's just getting started, and brings another dimension to the team. I'm sure he'll have poor games, but due to his effort in the off season, he'll be solid majority of the time, and with splitter rearing to go, this is feels like a good season.

[Leonard Curse]

http://oi54.tinypic.com/2nbhg28.jpg

damn i love our team even if we arent popular our players have brains/talent/and respect! i just cant imagine lovin any other team

[Leonard Curse]

oh yeah and Rj looks the way we expected he wouldand im sure this (summer workout) will raise the bar for him as a player, if you think about it theres no way hes going to stop working on his game esp.

if he overcame the spurs system and feels great contributing on the court with a group of hall of famers !! this has got to fell good for Rj to see his hard work pay off.

theres no direction but UP from here as far as rj's efficiency , next stop DEFENSE!!! if he becomes a solid defender this season w/what ive seen from james anderson oh my.....:p:wait just wait until my tiago comes baby!!!!!!

:elephant :domokun

[benefactor]

no, i'm basing these claims off of first hand experience playing basketball and what i've seen from other players in the NBA and not in the NBA. i don't need a numebr of games to justify my claim that he would be better. what you need is an understanding of the game, which in this respect, i have.

This is pretty hard to take seriously.

[Libri]

I think one of the reasons he played well had to do with the pace of the game. RJ is most comfortable running fast breaks and playing an up-tempo style. If the Spurs plan to continue with this style, then RJ should have many more good games.

[yavozerb]

I think one of the reasons he played well had to do with the pace of the game. RJ is most comfortable running fast breaks and playing an up-tempo style. If the Spurs plan to continue with this style, then RJ should have many more good games.

I never really thought of this helping out RJ but I think you may be onto something with this..If there is a break RJ seems to be always one of the players involved and these type of plays seem to energize him as well on the defensive end of the floor.

[arakkus]

One thing I noticed this year and last is that he doesn't seem to be getting the foul calls that he use to get. He went from getting 6-8 free throws to 3-4. Last year when he showed aggressiveness and got the contact he was not getting rewarded with a call. Which I'm sure confuses the heck out of him, but he just needs to adjust. My personal opinion refs may be a little extra generous with 2-3 members of a team especially those that seek out the contact. Our team already has parker, ginobili and Duncan that recieve those calls. Richard is not going to get those calls and needs to a) he learns to embrace his inner drama child force the refs to pay attention b) play through it and not let it affect his aggressiveness.

[benefactor]

Putting work in on drills does nothing to change things like RJ being lazy in every other facet of the game when his shot is not going in. That is something he will have to prove he worked to correct on his own...and if he does not show improvement in that area then the improvement in shooting won't matter one bit.

[mingus]

This is pretty hard to take seriously.

k

[benefactor]

k

Putting work in on drills does nothing to change things like RJ being lazy in every other facet of the game when his shot is not going in. That is something he will have to prove he worked to correct on his own...and if he does not show improvement in that area then the improvement in shooting won't matter one bit.

[MaNu4Tres]

Putting work in on drills does nothing to change things like RJ being lazy in every other facet of the game when his shot is not going in. That is something he will have to prove he worked to correct on his own...and if he does not show improvement in that area then the improvement in shooting won't matter one bit.

The bold is such an over-exaggeration, I don't even know where to begin. I'm not saying he was Mr. All- NBA Defender or Mr. Intangibles, but the guy was better than the typical bold statement.

He had terrible two months in January and February of last season (in all phases; which lead to a very intense meeting with Pop around the trade deadline), but every anti-RJ yes man tries to make those two months out for the whole season. From March on forward, he was a much more aggressive player in every other facet that included rebounding, taking the ball strong to the hoop, and more aware and aggressive with his rotations on the defensive end.

Before January, RJ actually shot 40% from 3 the first 3 months of the year and helped keep the team stay in contention by many great performances when Tony was out early on.

[mingus]

i don't expect him to be a great a defender or a great rebounder for this team (if that's what you're talking about when you say "every other facet"). he's never really been either of those. his whole career he's mainly had a scorers mentality. all i expect him to do is be better in that area. you're expectations are too high and that's you're problem.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Interesting stat from the Pacers game was the fact that Jefferson shot 10 free throws. In all of last season RJ only had two games in which he got 10 free throws. I think him touching the ball more, driving more, will be rewarded with more trips to the line. We'll see if his focus and aggression holds up. Seemed to fade from time to time last season.

[Dex]

Putting work in on drills does nothing to change things like RJ being lazy in every other facet of the game when his shot is not going in. That is something he will have to prove he worked to correct on his own...and if he does not show improvement in that area then the improvement in shooting won't matter one bit.

Well technically...if he makes more shots, he won't be inclined to be lazy as often? :stirpot:

[duncan228]

R.J.’s foul-line parade a good omen for Spurs’ offense (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2010/10/29/r-j-s-foul-line-parade-a-good-omen-for-spurs-offense/)
by Tim Griffin

...Jefferson said he made a conscious effort to try and boost his chances of getting fouled.

“A little bit,” Jefferson said. “Part of it was having a better understanding and a better feel of the schemes, the driving lanes and my teammates. It’s my second year and there will be improvements hopefully across the board. It won’t be conscious efforts or work put in this summer, but just having experienced another year under my belt.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2010/10/29/r-j-s-foul-line-parade-a-good-omen-for-spurs-offense/

[Bender]

^--- yeah good to see him get to the line all those times, too bad he sucks at FTs though

[benefactor]

The bold is such an over-exaggeration, I don't even know where to begin. I'm not saying he was Mr. All- NBA Defender or Mr. Intangibles, but the guy was better than the typical bold statement.

He had terrible two months in January and February of last season (in all phases; which lead to a very intense meeting with Pop around the trade deadline), but every anti-RJ yes man tries to make those two months out for the whole season. From March on forward, he was a much more aggressive player in every other facet that included rebounding, taking the ball strong to the hoop, and more aware and aggressive with his rotations on the defensive end.

Before January, RJ actually shot 40% from 3 the first 3 months of the year and helped keep the team stay in contention by many great performances when Tony was out early on.
It was less about Pop having some talk with him and more about Parker going out and Manu moving to the starting lineup and flat erupting. A Manu/RJ starting lineup created better chemistry because Manu is a better setup player than Parker is...so much so that there was tons of speculation on whether or not Parker should come off the bench in the playoffs. RJ didn't get that much better...Manu did.

Once the playoff rolled around the same old inconsistent RJ showed up. Couple of good games to help win the Mavs series, followed by a couple of stink jobs in the next round...one of which was the pivotal game three that basically sealed the deal.

We'll see what happens. The season is here and the games are being played. We'll have a little better picture a few weeks from now.

[benefactor]

i don't expect him to be a great a defender or a great rebounder for this team (if that's what you're talking about when you say "every other facet"). he's never really been either of those. his whole career he's mainly had a scorers mentality. all i expect him to do is be better in that area. you're expectations are too high and that's you're problem.
The Spurs don't need him to score more. He can go for 16/8 and the Spurs can still get bounced in the second round again. He has to hustle and make rotations on the defensive end and be smart and take what is given to him on the offensive end...and he has to do it consistently. I still see it as questionable that he can, but if he does it becomes one of several key elements that boost the Spurs towards the contender conversation.

[mingus]

The Spurs don't need him to score more. He can go for 16/8 and the Spurs can still get bounced in the second round again. He has to hustle and make rotations on the defensive end and be smart and take what is given to him on the offensive end...and he has to do it consistently. I still see it as questionable that he can, but if he does it becomes one of several key elements that boost the Spurs towards the contender conversation.

well at least you see it as questionable now because before you weren't giving the guy a chance pretty much.

RJ is too good of a player to write off over a one year period and I was one of the few posters who realized it. I have no doubt his play will continue.

Enjoy that crowe, and while your at it bump that thread of yours again.

[jesterbobman]

As a New Zealand fan it's difficult to get a chance to watch him play(Lack of TV and shitty slow internet for trying to watch league pass). Statistically he's been fine in the 1st 2 games, just wanted to ask:
How comfortable has he looked in his offensive role?
What's his defense(both individual and help/switching) been like?

[HarlemHeat37]

Jefferson looked great tonight..really aggressive, played hard..

He should have made that clutch 3, he was wide open..he also shouldn't have passed up the open shot, which led to Neal taking a tough, contested 3, those are the types of plays that Jefferson has to completely avoid, he has to have some balls..

With that being said, he was the best Spur tonight, and he looks a lot better so far this season..

[AussieFanKurt]

HarlemHeat sums it up well. More good than bad in first 2 games thats for sure. Different player compared to last year

[Ice009]

Jefferson looked great tonight..really aggressive, played hard..

He should have made that clutch 3, he was wide open..he also shouldn't have passed up the open shot, which led to Neal taking a tough, contested 3, those are the types of plays that Jefferson has to completely avoid, he has to have some balls..

With that being said, he was the best Spur tonight, and he looks a lot better so far this season..

His new jumper looks great so far. I still hated that he passed up that second three after the miss. The miss was a tough one, but that shot I am OK with. Probably minute for minute RJ has been the most consistent Spur this season.

[peskypesky]

if only they could do something about that voice of his. :(

[benefactor]

Well done tonight RJ...well done. :toast

[jag]

http://i193.photobucket.com/albums/z145/snowflaky22/richard-jefferson-and-model.jpg

Props

[phyzik]

Richard Jefferson, Game 2, Season 2011

33.25 minutes
18 points
4 rebounds
3 assists
1 Turn over



Not bad, hope he keeps it up. I will take that score line EVERY NIGHT!... He was agressive tonight as much as, if not more than, the first game. The loss was definately not on him. In fact, without him and Hill, it would have been a blowout.

[angelbelow]

Well done tonight RJ...well done. :toast

hey bro, i know how you feel about the guy, but lets be optimistic about the season. Tonights loss was tough considering our comeback but its time like these were we just have to continue to cheer as b-ball fans.

Whether RJ improves, or stays the same, or gets worse... isnt something we can control now. IMO the best thing to do is to hope for the best and hope he continues to play hard like he tonight and the season opener.

[TJastal]

hey bro, i know how you feel about the guy, but lets be optimistic about the season. Tonights loss was tough considering our comeback but its time like these were we just have to continue to cheer as b-ball fans.

Whether RJ improves, or stays the same, or gets worse... isnt something we can control now. IMO the best thing to do is to hope for the best and hope he continues to play hard like he tonight and the season opener.

l9K4BKkLaCI&ob=av3e

[ezau]

I jumped off my seat when he drove to the lane, made one pump fake, and slammed the ball with one hand against Trevor Ariza.

I know it's too early, but RJ looks really comfortable out there. He was aggressive all game long. He started off slow, but if I remember correctly, he scored like 16 points in the second half.

If TD, TP, Manu,RJ, and to a lesser extent, Hill and Blair show up every game, the Spurs are very tough to beat.

[Ice009]

I jumped off my seat when he drove to the lane, made one pump fake, and slammed the ball with one hand against Trevor Ariza.

I know it's too early, but RJ looks really comfortable out there. He was aggressive all game long. He started off slow, but if I remember correctly, he scored like 16 points in the second half.

If TD, TP, Manu,RJ, and to a lesser extent, Hill and Blair show up every game, the Spurs are very tough to beat.

The reason RJ started off slow is because he never got the ball from Tony or Manu.

[benefactor]

hey bro, i know how you feel about the guy, but lets be optimistic about the season. Tonights loss was tough considering our comeback but its time like these were we just have to continue to cheer as b-ball fans.

Whether RJ improves, or stays the same, or gets worse... isnt something we can control now. IMO the best thing to do is to hope for the best and hope he continues to play hard like he tonight and the season opener.
What the hell are you talking about?

[ohmwrecker]

It's still early, but RJ is one of the few bright spots so far. He has started out comfortable and aggressive and I don't see that dropping off. His shot looks great and he's starting to hit them at a good clip.

RJ is not the problem.

The problem is defense. Perimeter and paint. Splitter should help in the paint, but the perimeter d is a big issue. DeJuan Blair is a major disappointment so far. I know he is anxious to show off all the work he put in this summer on his outside game, but it ain't working. Stay down low and let Timmy shoot the jumpers. Pop needs to pull his ass out of the starting lineup pronto. I would prefer McDyess at this point, but Splitter, if he learns quick, would be preferable.

They let Jason Smith get going, for chrissakes!

[ezau]

The reason RJ started off slow is because he never got the ball from Tony or Manu.

Yeah, I agree with you. I see launching off from his fast start and continue contribute solidly for the Spurs.

[ElNono]

I thought RJ had a good night but I liked him more on the first game than on this one. In the first game he was involved from the get go. In this one, he went basically under the radar for the entire first half.
That said, when he did show up, he hustled his ass off, and for a moment when our offense was in shambles, his jumper carried us.
The only knock I had with him on that stretch was that he passed up wide open 3's to drive to the basket looking for the foul. He did get the calls last night, so props to him, but I can see how that can backfire against other teams.
All in all, looking at the team overall, you really can't rag on RJ's production unless you're being super picky. We have much bigger problems right now than his production.
I hope he keeps it up.

[Cane]

RJ looked great last night, one of the few good things from last night's game. Hopefully he brings this energy and aggressiveness all the time, he's shown a lot of improvements in these past two games from last season. He was a lot better than both Parker and Duncan against the Hornets as well.

Loved that pumpfake and dunk on Ariza as well.

[Spurs Brazil]

Props to RJ, 2 solid games

[mountainballer]

at least he looks as if he was worth 8M per.

[DPG21920]

RJ didn't really have a good "game". He had an exceptional "quarter". Obviously, it would be nice if he was a factor throughout, but so far he answered one of his biggest questions from last year: If he is not involved early, can he stay engaged enough to make a difference when it matters?

The answer is yes so far. Everyone is going to have off games, but for RJ, that used to mean there was no chance of recovery. He did not have a good game, but then he stayed in it and exploded in the fourth quarter.

Tough to complain with RJ's play so far.

[ohmwrecker]

To be fair he wasn't getting too many touches in the first half. Although he had a few lapses, his defense was pretty solid throughout. He was the best, most consistent player for the Spurs last night. Never could have said that last season.

[mingus]

RJ didn't really have a good "game". He had an exceptional "quarter". Obviously, it would be nice if he was a factor throughout, but so far he answered one of his biggest questions from last year: If he is not involved early, can he stay engaged enough to make a difference when it matters?

The answer is yes so far. Everyone is going to have off games, but for RJ, that used to mean there was no chance of recovery. He did not have a good game, but then he stayed in it and exploded in the fourth quarter.

Tough to complain with RJ's play so far.

RJ "didn't have a good game" because Manu was too busy jacking up most of his 11 threes (of which he made 2). it isn't so much as he "is not involved" as no one involved him.

[DPG21920]

RJ "didn't have a good game" because Manu was too busy jacking up most of his 11 threes (of which he made 2). it isn't so much as he "is not involved" as no one involved him.

:lol Of course, nothing is RJ's fault.

[mingus]

to be fair he wasn't getting too many touches in the first half. although he had a few lapses, his defense was pretty solid throughout. He was the best, most consistent player for the spurs last night. Never could have said that last season.

+1

[mingus]

:lol Of course, nothing is RJ's fault.

pretty much, if you want to believe that your distortion of what i said is what i really said.

[DPG21920]

There is a reason why some players are usually the guys not getting touches over and over.

I don't think his defense was solid. I think he was able to coast doing nothing on both ends for 3 quarters.

[angelbelow]

What the hell are you talking about?

lolol

[DPG21920]

pretty much, if you want to believe that your distortion of what i said is what i really said.

You said he wasn't involved because Manu was jacking up shots. That is faulty. He needs to get himself involved. If he were doing things to get himself involved, he would have been.

He is know for coasting through games. Manu is not just jacking up shots and ignoring a wide open RJ every time he is "coasting".

[mingus]

There is a reason why some players are usually the guys not getting touches over and over.

I don't think his defense was solid. I think he was able to coast doing nothing on both ends for 3 quarters.

his defense wasn't solid. that isn't much of a surprise. he's an average defender with average lateral quickness and defensive intuitiveness, and i don't expect him to be great on that end.

[mingus]

You said he wasn't involved because Manu was jacking up shots. That is faulty. He needs to get himself involved. If he were doing things to get himself involved, he would have been.

He is know for coasting through games. Manu is not just jacking up shots and ignoring a wide open RJ every time he is "coasting".

how is he supposed to get himself involved if Manu is jacking up 11 threes? that's bad decision making on Manu's part. RJ's ability to get himself involved is proportional to his teammates willingess to get him involved. it's a team game. you can want to get yourself involved all you want butit won't materialize into anything if teammates are making stupid decisions. he did absolutely nothing different in that 4th quarter other than get the ball. since he's not a primary ballhandler, he has to realy on people to help create his shots. if Manu isn't doing that, that's Manu's fault. luckely he changed and created for RJ in the second half.

[DPG21920]

RJ is supposed to get himself involved the same way everyone else does when Manu is "jacking up shots".

[mingus]

RJ is supposed to get himself involved the same way everyone else does when Manu is "jacking up shots".

which is how?

[DPG21920]

You watch the games? Answer how does anyone else ever get open and involved when Manu is chucking shots? Or does everyone coast and stay uninvolved like RJ?

[The Truth #6]

I wouldn't boil it down to Manu vs. RJ...but RJ wasn't getting any touches in the first half for whatever reason. He's been relatively aggressive this year so it's not like he's running from the ball.

[mingus]

don't be a rhetorical question asking douchbag and answer my questions directly. you brought up "getting involved," and that's a general. i'd like to know what you mean by getting involved.

[DPG21920]

No, you figure it out. If you are going to throw something out like it is a fact (Manu caused RJ to not be involved), then back up what you mean or GTFO.

[DPG21920]

I already proved your notion faulty as other people in the same game with Manu were obviously more involved than RJ.

[arakkus]

not sure what the point of this argument is RJ did not get any plays run for him in first half he barely saw the ball, however, he is the 4th scoring option. He is not suppose to. When given the opportunity he produced good for him. He hasn't been timid I hope he keeps it up. I don't want to see our offense changed our big 3 are all better at producing than RJ just want him to keep playing like he has been.

[mingus]

No, you figure it out. If you are going to throw something out like it is a fact (Manu caused RJ to not be involved), then back up what you mean or GTFO.

you made the statement earlier that RJ had "a good quarter," not "a good game." the only thing that changed b/w those other three quarters and that 4th quarter was that Manu turned into more of a facilitator and created open shots and driving possibilities for RJ (and for others).

i explained this already. you've provided absolutely no substantive retort to that. all you've been doing is making general, vague claims that he doesn't get himself involved, by which i have no idea what you mean.

[mingus]

I already proved your notion faulty as other people in the same game with Manu were obviously more involved than RJ.

again, this means absolutely nothing to me. you've made a general statement about involvement and haven't given examples of what you mean that this whole time.

[mingus]

LOL @ asking me to figure out what you mean.

[DPG21920]

No, I am asking you to figure out why what you said is true. It's not. Manu jacking up shots shouldn't simply effect just RJ.

Other people were on the court with the same Manu as RJ. Did they all have the same type of impact as RJ during those first three quarters?

Do those other players consistently coast through large portions of a game like RJ?

Answer those and you will see how your argument sucks.

[mingus]

No, I am asking you to figure out why what you said is true. It's not. Manu jacking up shots shouldn't simply effect just RJ.

Other people were on the court with the same Manu as RJ. Did they all have the same type of impact as RJ during those first three quarters?

Do those other players consistently coast through large portions of a game like RJ?

Answer those and you will see how your argument sucks.

RJ didn't get the ball until the 4th quarter. in the fourth quarter, he broke out, mostly due to Manu creating shots for him and giving him the ball where he could succeed. Manu's 11 three point attempts hurt the whole team. that's possbily 9 shot attempts that could have gone to someone else: RJ.

[mingus]

also, Anderson, Hill, and Blair missed a lot of shots, some of which were created by Manu. they were missing shots that they should be making. that's going to happen. so RJ's "inolvement" had a lot to do with those guys getting the open looks in the first half as well as Manu jacking up ill-advised threes. the one you can't control: Anderson and Hill should be taking and making those shots. Manu's bad attempts is something you can control, and that's what i'm harping on.

[Agloco]

Dicky J looked good for the second game in a row. IF he can avoid going 2-9 or 3-10 in many games this year, it will be a much smoother year for them.

[Waps1980]

I agree with Mingus mostly.
It wasn’t just manu but the first quarter or so it was parker streaky to the lane, which he did well and we don’t want to stop that drive.
But while Parker is playing that game it really becomes a game where RJ just fills the court.
Parker, Manu(who ever but a 3 point shooter) and TD, anything else may fall to an offensive rebounder but thats it.
During this stage RJ isn’t required or rarely able to do more.

Skip forward in the game when TP and TD were out, the game play was different obviously RJ was no longer a court filler but 1st or 2nd scoring option.
And suprise suprise what did he do, found some rhythm and did what he can do.
To think he is going to do that alongside the big 3 is stupid, I think he will score most his points in bursts this season, those bursts being when he is the 1st or 2nd option not in the 1st quarter when the big 3 go to work.

Good work RJ love what I’m seeing so far this season.

[AussieFanKurt]

2009 RJ:
Y7TVjCOlqgU

[ohmwrecker]

It is becoming pretty obvious that the RJ detractors are going to be able to find something wrong no matter what. I'm not sure if it's just save face because they were so adamant that RJ was a bad fit and was never going to do well here, but whatever the reason, it starting to get absurd.
I don't understand what is so difficult about giving the dude a little credit without nit picking the negatives.
Are you just so afraid to be wrong?
I realize we are just two games in and no one should jump to conclusions yet, but you can literally criticize every player on the team with this level of minutae.

[ElNono]

You don't think he was given 'a little credit' by the 'RJ detractors' the last two games?

And unless you're pretty new around here, we do 'nitpick and literally criticize every player on the team with this level of minutiae'. Manu just got criticized in this very thread for jacking up too many ill-advised threes. I don't see you running at his defense...

[DPG21920]

RJ didn't really have a good "game". He had an exceptional "quarter". Obviously, it would be nice if he was a factor throughout, but so far he answered one of his biggest questions from last year: If he is not involved early, can he stay engaged enough to make a difference when it matters?

The answer is yes so far. Everyone is going to have off games, but for RJ, that used to mean there was no chance of recovery. He did not have a good game, but then he stayed in it and exploded in the fourth quarter.

Tough to complain with RJ's play so far.

:lol So basically you want everyone to suck RJ off for everything. Every player does good and bad. Some are under a more watchful eye for obvious reasons.

CROFL at the "are you so afraid to be wrong" shtick. You are so desperate to be right that your run around calling scoreboard on every little thing.

[ohmwrecker]

You don't think he was given 'a little credit' by the 'RJ detractors' the last two games?

And unless you're pretty new around here, we do 'nitpick and literally criticize every player on the team with this level of minutiae'. Manu just got criticized in this very thread for jacking up too many ill-advised threes. I don't see you running at his defense...

Yeah, you're right . . . It's the same exact situation.
I'm not running to anyone's defense . . . just making an observation. You are just being defensive.
Manu was really terrible, despite the numbers, last night. His decision making was questionable and he spent entirely to much time bitching at Blair and Neal. He did "jack up" a lot of bad shots and didn't do a lot to move the offense and get others involved.
I give credit where it's due and lay blame where it belongs. I don't stick to my guns just to forward my agenda because I am afraid of being wrong.
If RJ is largely responsible for a loss this season I will freely admit it.

[DPG21920]

So when anyone makes an RJ comment and you run into the thread (which is virtually every time), it is just observation? But when someone replies, they are defensive.

This is a magical world you live in where are the rules are designed to make you look awesome :lol

This is not a personal attack btw....

[HarlemHeat37]

So when anyone makes an RJ comment and you run into the thread (which is virtually every time), it is just observation? But when someone replies, they are defensive.

This is a magical world you live in where are the rules are designed to make you look awesome :lol

This is not a personal attack btw....

:lmao

[ohmwrecker]

:lol So basically you want everyone to suck RJ off for everything. Every player does good and bad. Some are under a more watchful eye for obvious reasons.

CROFL at the "are you so afraid to be wrong" shtick. You are so desperate to be right that your run around calling scoreboard on every little thing.

Yeah, you got me . . . that's exactly what I want.
Manu, Tim and Tony deserve the lion's share of responsibility. Blame for losses, credit for wins. RJ belongs in the next tier with Blair and Hill. Of those three, RJ is, as of now, the best and most consistent performer.


I don't get this "calling scoreboard" shit. Where am I doing this?
I could easily say you were calling scoreboard in the preseason if you want to play that game.

lol see my post

[Blackjack]

When you're Omnipotent, awesomeness supersedes rule.

It's good to be 'Jack, tbh, aimca,aitm-fOB,tbh

[Ice009]

RJ didn't really have a good "game". He had an exceptional "quarter". Obviously, it would be nice if he was a factor throughout, but so far he answered one of his biggest questions from last year: If he is not involved early, can he stay engaged enough to make a difference when it matters?

The answer is yes so far. Everyone is going to have off games, but for RJ, that used to mean there was no chance of recovery. He did not have a good game, but then he stayed in it and exploded in the fourth quarter.

Tough to complain with RJ's play so far.

RJ never got the ball. He didn't start of slow at all. He hardly ever got the ball from Manu or Tony in the first half. They were too busy jacking up shots.

[DPG21920]

Fml

[ChumpDumper]

Good game by RJ.

[ohmwrecker]

So when anyone makes an RJ comment and you run into the thread (which is virtually every time), it is just observation? But when someone replies, they are defensive.

Yes. I actually let a lot of stuff go. btw tbh imo


This is a magical world you live in where are the rules are designed to make you look awesome :lol

Seriously though . . . doesn't this pretty much describe everyone on the board?

And . . . I am awesome.

[Ice009]

RJ's defense is a work in progress, but his offense so far this season is a lot better. The team needs to get him the ball more when he is playing good. They can't freeze him out. RJ has to be aggressive and assertive all the time though to deserve the ball, so I am not talking about getting him the ball to simply get him going. So far this season he has been aggressive when he's gotten it most of the time.

He's not going to get himself involved on defense because he still needs to work on that and get better, maybe further into the season he'll start engaging defensively and play better on that end too.

[ohmwrecker]

:lmao


You are just really, really awful.

[Blackjack]

And . . . I am awesome.

Blackjack thinks you need to get over yourself.

[HarlemHeat37]

Blackjack thinks you need to get over yourself.

:lol:lol

[ohmwrecker]

Blackjack thinks you need to get over yourself.

Ohmwrecker thinks the pot is calling the kettle Blackjack.

[Blackjack]

Ohmwrecker thinks the pot is calling the kettle Blackjack.

Blackjack isn't a color, and that comes across as racist, tbh.

Ain't no one more humble than Blackjack and Blackjack believes you need some humility.

That's just what He believes.

[ohmwrecker]

It's called a pun, son.


Racist? I'm looking at your avatar, friendo.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Oh give me a break.

He is scoring 17 points on 65% from the field. He is only shooting 3's at 33% but he is hitting most shots from more than 15 feet.

Ariza and Belinelli put up 12 points. Granger only scored 7 of his 26 points in Jefferson's 21 minutes on Wednesday. He held Granger without a point for the final 6 minutes to ice the game.

I have seen him cut off the baseline, keep up with his man in traffic, be an excellent transition defender, and not miss rotations.

Our problems have been Blair's inability to rotate on penetration, Neal and Anderson sucking, Hibbert having his way with Duncan and the Hornets hitting a shit-ton of long jumpers. That reminded me of Phoenix.

You can talk about 'lateral quickness' and 'average defender' all you want but if you cannot see that his agility on the court has improved immensely then you are just being intentionally obtuse. His ability to backpedal and move side to side in transition defense speaks for itself. The results speak for themselves.

He has been a plus-scorer and a plus-defender. He has been our best player and its not even close.

[mingus]

Oh give me a break.

He is scoring 17 points on 65% from the field. He is only shooting 3's at 33% but he is hitting most shots from more than 15 feet.

Ariza and Belinelli put up 12 points. Granger only scored 7 of his 26 points in Jefferson's 21 minutes on Wednesday. He held Granger without a point for the final 6 minutes to ice the game.

I have seen him cut off the baseline, keep up with his man in traffic, be an excellent transition defender, and not miss rotations.

Our problems have been Blair's inability to rotate on penetration, Neal and Anderson sucking and the Hornets hitting a shit-ton of long jumpers. That reminded me of Phoenix.

You can talk about 'lateral quickness' and 'average defender' all you want but if you cannot see that his agility on the court has improved immensely then you are just being intentionally obtuse.

He has been a plus-scorer and a plus-defender. He has been our best player and its not even close.

it is better, but it's still average. and i am and have been one of RJ's big supporters. he still fucks up on rotations.

and i disagree with Neal. Neal played a great game yesterday. he hit his shots on offense and played, surpisingly, tough-nosed and effective one-on-one defense.

[Blackjack]

It's called a pun, son.


Racist? I'm looking at your avatar, friendo.

I can't be a racist. Racists don't call others racist, no one throws that kind of rhetoric around irrationally.

Jobu is not a racist either. He can hit a curve ball.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

it is better, but it's still average. and i am and have been one of RJ's big supporters. he still fucks up on rotations.

and i disagree with Neal. Neal played a great game yesterday. he hit his shots on offense and played, surpisingly, tough-nosed and effective one-on-one defense.

Neal got beat by his man consistently. Harrington says hello. If by tough you mean he fouls his man all the way from half-court when he got beat a step in transition then sure. He tried very hard but he was getting beat.

I do not recall missed rotations. I have seen him rotate from the baseline on pick and rolls and balls down in the post. I saw him chase Granger through all kinds of screens and contest shots.

I call complete bullshit.

[ohmwrecker]

I can't be a racist. Racists don't call others racist, no one throws that kind of rhetoric around irrationally.

Jobu is not a racist either. He can hit a curve ball.

I can't be racist either because I have evolved beyond such earthly trappings. I don't really care for the Dutch, though. So, my friend, we are at an impasse. The proverbial rock y hard place. Omnipotence is a bitch, ain't it?

[ElNono]

Yeah, you're right . . . It's the same exact situation.
I'm not running to anyone's defense . . . just making an observation. You are just being defensive.
Manu was really terrible, despite the numbers, last night. His decision making was questionable and he spent entirely to much time bitching at Blair and Neal. He did "jack up" a lot of bad shots and didn't do a lot to move the offense and get others involved.
I give credit where it's due and lay blame where it belongs. I don't stick to my guns just to forward my agenda because I am afraid of being wrong.
If RJ is largely responsible for a loss this season I will freely admit it.

????

People overwhelmingly gave props to RJ for his first two games, alleged detractors and supporters. Some also nitpicked on a thing or two, which are far from being the team's major problems at this point.

I'm not sure what you're looking for. When you call it like you see it it's OK, but when other people do it it's being defensive? GTFO

[ohmwrecker]

Blah, Blah, Blah . . . Something like what DPG said.

[MaNu4Tres]

When you're Omnipotent, awesomeness supersedes rule.

It's good to be 'Jack, tbh, aimca,aitm-fOB,tbh

Excellent post.

Enjoyable read as always Blackjack.

[TD 21]

Yes. I actually let a lot of stuff go. btw tbh imo

I have two questions for you. Throughout this back and forth, have you...

1) Been being honest?

2) Has everything you said been in your opinion?

Because if I don't see "tbh" or "imo" within' every couple of sentences, I get confused to the point where I suddenly begin to think that whatever someone's writing is not in their opinion and they're not being honest. It's not like those things go without saying.

[ElNono]

RJ's defense is a work in progress, but his offense so far this season is a lot better. The team needs to get him the ball more when he is playing good. They can't freeze him out. RJ has to be aggressive and assertive all the time though to deserve the ball, so I am not talking about getting him the ball to simply get him going. So far this season he has been aggressive when he's gotten it most of the time.

He's not going to get himself involved on defense because he still needs to work on that and get better, maybe further into the season he'll start engaging defensively and play better on that end too.

When we signed RJ up, I expected the team to change the 'system' a bit to accommodate his running style a bit more. It didn't happen, and he was stuck in the spot-up-shooter lame duck role.

This team is built around playing the pick and roll when TP and TD are in the floor together. And Manu being the wildcard when he's also out there. RJ truly is the 4th option, and I don't really think that's going to change as long as the big 3 share the floor with him.

[ElNono]

:cry

:jack

[Blackjack]

I really don't see what RJ has to do with ohmwrecker being a female dog named Omnipotence.

Color Blackjack perplexed; and He's never perplexed.

[ohmwrecker]

I have two questions for you. Throughout this back and forth, have you...

1) Been being honest?

I don't understand the question?

2) Has everything you said been in your opinion?

Maybe . . .

Because if I don't see "tbh" or "imo" within' every couple of sentences, I get confused to the point where I suddenly begin to think that whatever someone's writing is not in their opinion and they're not being honest. It's not like those things go without saying.

Scoreboard!

[ohmwrecker]

I really don't see what RJ has to do with ohmwrecker being a female dog named Omnipotence.

Color Blackjack perplexed; and He's never perplexed.

That makes two of us. I led to believe that with great omnipotence comes great responsibility, which can be a bit of a drag. That's why I switched to Ohmnipotence. Nobody bothers me because nobody knows what it is.

[ohmwrecker]

:jack

:cry

[ElNono]

:cry

[Blackjack]

That makes two of us. I led to believe that with great omnipotence comes great responsibility, which can be a bit of a drag. That's why I switched to Ohmnipotence. Nobody bothers me because nobody knows what it is.

Got it. Ohmnipotence is a stage name, a persona that carries quite the burden and responsibility, which is typically inherent when one goes into drag.

Blackjack can relate.

[MaNu4Tres]

Got it. Ohmnipotence is a stage name, a persona that carries quite the burden and responsibility, which is typically inherent when one goes into drag.

Blackjack can relate.

Great point, Blackjack. Nice to have someone bring some common sense to the table :tu

[ohmwrecker]

Got it. Ohmnipotence is a stage name, a persona that carries quite the burden and responsibility, which is typically inherent when one goes into drag.

Blackjack can relate.

Where do you get your shoes?

[DPG21920]

This is hilarious.

[Blackjack]

Where do you get your shoes?

That's rather insensitive.

Blackjack floats. He's disembodied.

I related to the responsibility and having a persona. Blackjack is my Persona. My name is I Am.

[Ice009]

When we signed RJ up, I expected the team to change the 'system' a bit to accommodate his running style a bit more. It didn't happen, and he was stuck in the spot-up-shooter lame duck role.

This team is built around playing the pick and roll when TP and TD are in the floor together. And Manu being the wildcard when he's also out there. RJ truly is the 4th option, and I don't really think that's going to change as long as the big 3 share the floor with him.

The point I am saying is that people can't go around saying he did nothing in the first three quarters. When he consistently got the ball he's done something with it a big percentage of the time this season.

What exactly is he supposed to be doing to be move involved apart from playing defense? I don't understand what some people in this thread are saying that he needs to be doing on offense to be more involved? What else can he be doing on offense when he doesn't have the ball? Does he need to move better with out the ball?

[ohmwrecker]

That's rather insensitive.

Blackjack floats. He's disembodied.

I related to the responsibility and having a persona. Blackjack is my Persona. My name is I Am.

I meant "shoes" in a metaphorical sense. Are you permanently disembodied? I can only manage temporary disembodiment through "TM", but at some point I always prefer literal shoes.

[Blackjack]

I meant "shoes" in a metaphorical sense. Are you permanently disembodied? I can only manage temporary disembodiment through "TM", but at some point I always prefer literal shoes.

Disembodiment has it's pros and cons, mostly it's great for pulling pranks and being a perv.

Problem is, disembodiment makes being a perv pretty pointless, so I consider myself an avid observer. Just looking at some of my work, really.

But yeah, it's permanent. I suppose my shoes would be the earth you walk on or the planet you reside, if we're talking metaphorically.

[benefactor]

:cry:crygreat fucking small forward:cry:cry

[ElNono]

The point I am saying is that people can't go around saying he did nothing in the first three quarters. When he consistently got the ball he's done something with it a big percentage of the time this season.

What exactly is he supposed to be doing to be move involved apart from playing defense? I don't understand what some people in this thread are saying that he needs to be doing on offense to be more involved? What else can he be doing on offense when he doesn't have the ball? Does he need to move better with out the ball?

Well, I thought he was much more involved offensively in the first game. I thought he drove and got the line earlier and more often. He does get touches. It's not like the Spurs don't move the ball around.
That said, it's just really an observation comparing him in the two games, and not a knock on the guy. He's played really well overall.
It just seems like you can't say anything like that without hitting somebody's nerve.

[Waps1980]

I think he’s been moving really well without the ball, maybe not 100% of the time but he’s been cutting base causing the defence to rotate, which in turn creates opportunities for lanes to open and plays to manufacture for Spurs offense.

[Ice009]

Well, I thought he was much more involved offensively in the first game. I thought he drove and got the line earlier and more often. He does get touches. It's not like the Spurs don't move the ball around.
That said, it's just really an observation comparing him in the two games, and not a knock on the guy. He's played really well overall.
It just seems like you can't say anything like that without hitting somebody's nerve.

I'd have to re-watch the game, but I thought he got touches more consistently in the first game. Thanks for your opinion though. I'll back up RJ if he deserves it. So far I am liking his improvement. Not sure if people recall, but I was one of the first to ask for him traded last season.

I was actually OK with the Spurs resigning him this season too. When I heard he worked with Pop I was OK with the signing. That was a key point for me, if I didn't read he worked with Pop or any other Spurs personnel over the summer then I would have been pissed at the signing. I was thinking of a Stephen Jackson like rebuild where Pop broke him down and rebuilt him to play Spurs basketball after his first season here.

Has Pop done a Stephen Jackson like job on RJ and helped him transform his game? If RJ continues to improve this could be some of Pop's best work yet.

[ezau]

It's obvious that RJ will not be able to get the ball when TP is the team's primary ballhandler. RJ plays well when he's with either Manu or Hill.

[duncan228]

Jefferson’s sophomore surge seen in Phoenix (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2010/11/05/jefferson%e2%80%99s-sophomore-surge-seen-in-phoenix/)
By Jeff McDonald

...Given a second chance to make a first impression, and boosted by an offseason regimen rapidly becoming the stuff of lore, Jefferson suddenly appears reborn at age 30.

Four games into his second San Antonio season, Jefferson leads the Spurs in scoring at 20 points per game, and is shooting a sizzling 65.9 percent, including 8 of 15 on 3-pointers.

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2010/11/05/jefferson%e2%80%99s-sophomore-surge-seen-in-phoenix/

[Agloco]

Is no one else worried that Dicky is shooting lights out this early in the season? Does he not know about SPAM?

What gives Dicky J? :hat

Premature ejaculation metaphor in 3.....2......1......

[duncan228]

Spurs Insider: RJ's Second Season (http://www.nba.com/spurs/multimedia/101105_insider.html)

Episode No. 2 of the Spurs Insider is here! The show takes a look at Richard Jefferson's progression in year two of the Spurs system as well as checks in with George Hill out in the community

>> Watch the full episode: Episode 2 (http://www.nba.com/spurs/multimedia/101105_insider.html) | 2010-11 Episodes (http://www.nba.com/spurs/multimedia/archive_insider.html)

[Obstructed_View]

Is no one else worried that Dicky is shooting lights out this early in the season? Does he not know about SPAM?

What gives Dicky J? :hat

Premature ejaculation metaphor in 3.....2......1......

.855 field goal percentage in April, baby!

[angelbelow]

Is no one else worried that Dicky is shooting lights out this early in the season? Does he not know about SPAM?

What gives Dicky J? :hat

Premature ejaculation metaphor in 3.....2......1......

Well shit, its true, at some point his incredible shooting precentage is going to come back down to earth. But his incredible shooting percentage isnt what im most happy about.

Its about him actually being aggressive with his open looks and him being aggressive about taking the ball to the hole when he has the space. Also as many have stated his form looks improved as well. If he keeps taking these types of shots and averages around a 46-50% shooting percentage he'll help this team tremendously.

[DrSteffo]

I hope its more like tantra sex but who knows. That guy seems talented but inconsistent. Props to him.

[ohmwrecker]

Somebody is going to have to let me in on this whole SPAM thing because I don't get it.

[Blackjack]

Spurs Play/Peak After March: SPAM (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=150371)

[DPG21920]

Somebody is going to have to let me in on this whole SPAM thing because I don't get it.

lol grey.
































j/k

[ohmwrecker]

Neat.

[duncan228]

The Sixth Man (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/ian_thomsen/11/12/greg.oden/2.html)
Ian Thomsen
SI.com

The List

Most Improved Player is the award that is impossible to forecast before the season. But now the early results are in, and here are my leading candidates. I've included as many of the top leapers as I could find, including veterans (in italics) who are probably too old to win an award that is aimed at younger, developing players.

1. Paul Millsap, Jazz
2. Luis Scola, Rockets
3. Elton Brand, 76ers
4. Joakim Noah, Bulls
5. Richard Jefferson, Spurs
6. Russell Westbrook, Thunder
7. Glen Davis, Celtics
8. J.J. Hickson, Cavaliers
9. Dorell Wright, Warrior
10. Roy Hibbert, Pacers
11. Serge Ibaka, Thunder
12. Jrue Holiday, 76ers
13. Michael Beasley, Timberwolves
14. Mike Conley, Grizzlies
15. Toney Douglas, Knicks

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/ian_thomsen/11/12/greg.oden/2.html

[stealthjbravo]

2. Luis Scola, Rockets :)

[Waps1980]

Some of those names are just loving that they are not playing behind a star that takes 50% of the teams play.
Beasley & JJ Hickson stick out the most, and Millsap too.

[duncan228]

Jefferson's return to form a pleasant surprise for Spurs (http://www.foxsportssouthwest.com/11/20/10/Jeffersons-return-to-form-a-pleasant-sur/landing.html?blockID=357341&feedID=3742)
By Pat DeCola
FOXSportsSouthwest.com

"Richard Jefferson, we hardly knew ye."

That's the headline I thought that I'd be running with a few weeks into the season, right around the time I predicted I'd be issuing the eulogy at the funeral of Jefferson's NBA career.

Well, low and behold, it's still the one I went with.

And not because the 6'7" forward took note of the "staggering downswing in production" rumblings throughout the course of last season and retired at the age of 30, but because we literally did not know ye, Rich.

Or more specifically, we didn't know you had it in you.

After mind-blowingly opting out of his $15.2 million contract in June, Spurs fans may have though they'd seen the last of Jefferson, who notched just 12.3 points in 31.1 frustrating minutes per game last year. But he managed to re-sign with the team in July, at what he considers his own type of self-negotiated contract extension.

"So you figure it out. If you're able to get four years and 40 (million dollars by opting out) from someone (which ended up being the Spurs), it's like, 'OK, I did lose out on 15 (million dollars). But I'm going to get basically a $25 million extension,'" as he told Fanhouse before opting out.

Well, he ended up getting near his $40 million mark by signing for $39 million over four years, giving San Antonio one hella-good (so far) player for a measly $8.4 million.

His contract steadily increases throughout the course of the deal, bringing him to over $11 million in year four, in which a 34-year old Jefferson will likely be driving to the rim in a Cadillac with a perpetual left-turn signal on for 18 minutes a game. But this is not the time, nor place to discuss that dismal imagery.

Rather, it's to offer Jefferson some praise.

As the transition of the organization continues and 34-year old Tim Duncan's minutes and points diminish, the need for added production from other contributors grows consistently. Manu Ginobili has benefitted from his added minutes by shooting lights out and scoring over 21 per. Even Tony Parker has been as hot as his wife ex-wife, Eva Longoria, shooting close to 53% from the field and 81% from the line. (Parker has career averages of 49 and 73%, respectively.)

But the biggest surprise of this young season for San Antonio is undoubtedly the motivated production from Jefferson.

In roughly the same amount of playing time as last year, certain aspects of his 2010-2011 numbers are staggering. Jefferson is shooting at a 54% clip combined with 46% behind the arc. Compare that with 47% and 32% a year ago and the Spurs are in business.
His rebounds and assists are slightly down, but the adjustments to his overall game have given San Antonio a versatile scorer at the perfect time.

Jefferson has even elevated his play to the point where I've confidently added him to my fantasy basketball team, "Pimping Gloria James".

Basically what all of this boils down to is this: the majority of the NBA world believed that the productive days of the former Arizona Wildcat were far behind him. So much so, in fact, that basketballreference.com didn't even bother to update his stock photo from his time in New Jersey, despite last appearing in a Nets uni in April 2008 and changing teams twice since then.

87% of the season remains to be played, and by then this column might look ridiculous.

But right now it's time to buy into Richard Jefferson and the 10-1 Spurs, if you haven't already.

[MmP]

Im loving every minute Richard is on the floor, though he might not score that much he's helping the team with rebounds, key shots, passes. I mean c'mon this better than I expected. If the can have 20 pts game from time time or in big games Im happy.

[ohmwrecker]

When can I call scoreboard?

[skinsfan1]

Complete turnaround by RJ, doing a great job

[Agloco]

The whole difference is that when he goes 3-10 this year, it's because he's geting fouled going to the bucket and missing the shot. Last year those 3-10 games were by and large due to poor perimeter shooting on his part.

This year, we get FT's to compensate us. Last year, those were empty possessions. Each one added up and they became too much to overcome.

[ElNono]

When can I call scoreboard?

Feel free. I'm having this for dinner:

http://www.vikingsgab.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/eating_crow.jpg

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

As a man with integrity I have to check in here and admit: I was wrong about RJ this year. So far he has exceeded all expectations, and a big part of his improvement no doubt stems from that time he took out to spend with Pop over summer, and props to him for it. Well done RJ, I apologise for doubting you, and please keep proving me wrong!

I was not looking forward to watching him this year after he was so uncertain, inconsistent, and seemingly lost and detached last year (except the Dallas series, in which he was great... a sign of things to come). However, this year he has been aggressive and focussed, and he looks to have grown into a great relationship with his teammates and coach, all a credit to him.

PS My attitude on RJ has changed so much that I just traded for him! Brook Lopez and Anthony Morrow for RJ and Blake Griffin is the trade... and yes, it is marginal, but that is the one of my 6 teams that's failing (picks 1,3,4 out with injury) and I figured WTF, it can't get worse. :lol

[TJastal]

The whole difference is that when he goes 3-10 this year, it's because he's geting fouled going to the bucket and missing the shot. Last year those 3-10 games were by and large due to poor perimeter shooting on his part.

This year, we get FT's to compensate us. Last year, those were empty possessions. Each one added up and they became too much to overcome.

Just a FYI, only made field goals count as shot attempts when a foul occurs (an "and-1")

[TJastal]

As a man with integrity I have to check in here and admit: I was wrong about RJ this year. So far he has exceeded all expectations, and a big part of his improvement no doubt stems from that time he took out to spend with Pop over summer, and props to him for it. Well done RJ, I apologise for doubting you, and please keep proving me wrong!

I was not looking forward to watching him this year after he was so uncertain, inconsistent, and seemingly lost and detached last year (except the Dallas series, in which he was great... a sign of things to come). However, this year he has been aggressive and focussed, and he looks to have grown into a great relationship with his teammates and coach, all a credit to him.

PS My attitude on RJ has changed so much that I just traded for him! Brook Lopez and Anthony Morrow for RJ and Blake Griffin is the trade... and yes, it is marginal, but that is the one of my 6 teams that's failing (picks 1,3,4 out with injury) and I figured WTF, it can't get worse. :lol

Griffin paid off in a big way last night.