DX: Spurs to sign Steve Novak

[Bruno]

http://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/34635487914237952


Steve Novak will sign a 10-day contract with the San Antonio Spurs tomorrow. Spent 48 hours in the D-League before getting the call-up.

[tp2021]

A 6 foot 9, 3-pt specialist...just a tryout, or Bonner insurance?

[Rapper]

The spurs will soon waive him just same as the udoka's case

[Mel_13]

The spurs will soon waive him just same as the udoka's case

10 day contracts make that easy to do.

[Bruno]

By waiting until tomorrow, the 10 days contract will length the whole second leg of the rodeo road trip that ends in Chicago on February 17th. Spurs signing Novak also likely means that Bonner still need a little time before coming back.

On a side note, Pop has a golden opportunity to give Tiago consistent minutes. Spurs will play 5 teams in 7 days and these 5 teams are below .500. It will be the perfect time to open the bench to give Dice and Duncan some rest. Having Nowak will also help to rest the "old" players.

[Brazil]

By waiting until tomorrow, the 10 days contract will length the whole second leg of the rodeo road trip that ends in Chicago on February 17th. Spurs signing Novak also likely means that Bonner still need a little time before coming back.

On a side note, Pop has a golden opportunity to give Tiago consistent minutes. Spurs will play 5 teams in 7 days and these 5 teams are below .500. It will be the perfect time to open the bench to give Dice and Duncan some rest. Having Nowak will also help to rest the "old" players.

you really think Novak is going to play meaningful minutes and will enable the "old" players to rest ?

[TDMVPDPOY]

power shift move?

[Bruno]

you really think Novak is going to play meaningful minutes and will enable the "old" players to rest ?

I hope the one that will allow the "old" players to rest will be Splitter. Novak will be mainly useful for the garbage time.

[Brazil]

I hope the one that will allow the "old" players to rest will be Splitter. Novak will be mainly useful for the garbage time.

:toast

I really liked the minutes he played against the kings, some are saying it was the kings but the same kings destroyed the lakers front court just before. With bonner still out this is Tiago chance I hope he will take it.

[dbestpro]

I've always wondered what Pop could do with this guy. His shot from outside is arguably the best in the NBA. If Pop could make him work in certain situation, then Bonner could actually become a trade chip with the much lower salaried Novak in place.

Splitter would see the bulk of these minutes, but when Pop would need that big to stretch the floor, then Novak would be the guy to deliver. It seems every game I have watched of him he nails the three whenever given the chance, and regardless of how cold he is from sitting on the bench.

I would have to say that his defense cannot be much worse than Bonner's when he first got here, as well.

[ohmwrecker]

Pop just wants someone to run his stretch four sets. He is so proud of them.

[Drewlius]

I actually like this, hope he gets more than a minute or two, he has a pretty outside shot.

[YODA]

I hate to say I have no information on this guy. Does anyone have some history on this guy besides a good outside shot?

[Blackjack]

Austin Croshere 2K11.

[Mel_13]

I hate to say I have no information on this guy. Does anyone have some history on this guy besides a good outside shot?

Poor man's, perhaps homeless man's, Matt Bonner. Tall guy that can shoot the 3, but can't shoot, rebound, or defend as well as Bonner.

[CubanMustGo]

I hate to say I have no information on this guy. Does anyone have some history on this guy besides a good outside shot?

http://nba.fanhouse.com/2011/02/03/steve-novak-formerly-of-dallas-mavericks-now-in-the-nba-d-leag/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Novak
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Steve-Novak-129/

[lefty]

I hate to say I have no information on this guy. Does anyone have some history on this guy besides a good outside shot?
He is white

[HarlemHeat37]

Novak is a fucking bitch..he cost me a 100$ in the Spurs-Mavs game earlier in the season..he took a meaningless 3 attempt with less than 20 seconds left to hit the OVER..this is a disappointing signing:lol..

As for his game..he's a very good 3-point shooter, but Ralph Lawler(the Clippers announcer) used to literally joke, on the air, about when Novak would do anything positive, outside of making a 3:lol..he might be the worst all-around player in the NBA, might be the worst defender in the NBA..

He has no ability to shoot off the dribble, either..his only asset is spot-up 3-point shooting..

[kaji157]

This is good, Novak is a better shooter than Bonner and he is more clutch.
His defense is even worse than Bonner´s but he has never been on a team that required him to play any of course.

[lefty]

http://blogs.hoopshype.com/blogs/muoneke/files/2007/12/novak.jpg

[Cry Havoc]

He has no ability to shoot off the dribble, either..his only asset is spot-up 3-point shooting..

Sadly, this means he'll be ahead of Tiago in Pop's rotations. :depressed

[tdunk21]

i see this "10 day contract" trend going till the feb 24th deadline...maybe the spurs are just waiting to sign a player involved in a trade and bought out..... lets hope we get a good 13th player with some good defense...

[ajballer4]

He used to play for dallas and I believe new Orleans so that's a good sign. Other than that I don't really like the signing

[BlackSwordsMan]

who the hell is steve novak

[Darkwaters]

Eh, garbage signing.

He'll be gone in 10-20 days.

[Agloco]

Poor man's, perhaps homeless man's, Matt Bonner. Tall guy that can shoot the 3, but can't shoot, rebound, or defend as well as Bonner.

ie the Spurs had some extra coins in the petty cash drawer.

[awktalk]

On a side note, Pop has a golden opportunity to give Tiago consistent minutes.

Why does every thread that has anything to do with personnel on this board turn into "opportunities" to get Splinter "consistent minutes"? Pop has said thousands of times, minutes are not assigned they are earned. So if he feels Tiago is earning them, he will play him. It is so boring to read every Splinter sack licker on this site turns every freaking thread into Tiago's minutes. Stop it already.

[Mugen]

Why does every thread that has anything to do with personnel on this board turn into "opportunities" to get Splinter "consistent minutes"?

because you're a fag.

[#41 Shoot Em Up]

http://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/34635487914237952

:lol

[SenorSpur]

Maybe Novak will cause us all to wish for the return of Larry Owens?

[toki9]

ie the Spurs had some extra coins in the petty cash drawer.

And needed a body to meet the league minimum.

[yavozerb]

I expected this kind of signing since pop likes to have a 3pt shooting big on the roster and Bonner being out longer than anticipated. Expect the kind of minutes that many have cried for years that bonner should be getting (5-7 minutes per game)..

[SenorSpur]

I expected this kind of signing since pop likes to have a 3pt shooting big on the roster and Bonner being out longer than anticipated. Expect the kind of minutes that many have cried for years that bonner should be getting (5-7 minutes per game)..

It's a damn shame that, according to some who have seen him, the only thing Novak can provide is 3-pt shooting.

I would ask the question that if he IS such a good shooter, why has he been on the street most of this season?

[Brazil]

Novak signed and JA to the toros... not sure being a fan of that moves

[yavozerb]

It's a damn shame that, according to some who have seen him, the only thing Novak can provide is 3-pt shooting.

I would ask the question that if he IS such a good shooter, why has he been on the street most of this season?

Thats the problem, 3pt shooting is basically all Novak can provide. He is a career 40% 3pt shooter in the NBA for his career and non existent in every other stat line.. This has been the point I have made for years with Bonner, not only is he an above average 3pt shooter, but the rest of his game is average as well for a big (talking about matt bonner). Not an easy balance to find in a 3pt shooting big.

[crc21209]

Just a ehh signing to me. Won't see much playing time...

[SenorSpur]

Thats the problem, 3pt shooting is basically all Novak can provide. He is a career 40% 3pt shooter in the NBA for his career and non existent in every other stat line.. This has been the point I have made for years with Bonner, not only is he an above average 3pt shooter, but the rest of his game is average as well for a big (talking about matt bonner). Not an easy balance to find in a 3pt shooting big.

I love Pop, but it's almost as though he's talking out of both sides of his mouth. He wants the team to be better defensively, and has continued to stress how essential that is for long-term success. However, he keeps falling in love with these "one-trick-pony" type of players. Those can only shoot, but are horrific defenders. One would think having Bonner on the roster should be enough. I'd rather he invest time in getting JA back into the rotation

[jestersmash]

Did somebody really say that Novak has "arguably the best outside jump shot in the NBA?"

Seriously?

Where does a guy like Ray Allen fall?

I don't doubt that Novak has a really pretty jump shot, but seriously now, let's be reasonable.

[tp2021]

If it's well-known that all he provides is 3-pt shooting, then I'm sure Pop might be aware of such things. Don't read too much into it. He's a stopgap, not a prospect. Bonner might not be ready to go against Detroit, so just in case, they have this guy.

[Baseline]

Tracy McGrady once said that Steve Novak is the best shooter he has ever seen.

[DesignatedT]

All this means is Bonner is going to continue to take longer then expected IMO. If Novak doesn't work out which is highly likely then the Spurs will just call Anderson back up. Anderson doesn't have a spot in the rotation and cutting Neal or Hills minutes would be a retarded move at this point since they have been huge in contributing to our 42-8 record. Anderson will also get to see more floor time and continue to get back in shape in Austin if by chance we do need him to be a rotation player come playoff time.

[SenorSpur]

Tracy McGrady once said that Steve Novak is the best shooter he has ever seen.

If that's true, then Pop is creaming all himself and has his new man-crush. Expect Novak to get the Finley-like Valentines Day treatment.

[DesignatedT]

If it's well-known that all he provides is 3-pt shooting, then I'm sure Pop might be aware of such things. Don't read too much into it. He's a stopgap, not a prospect. Bonner might not be ready to go against Detroit, so just in case, they have this guy.

exactly.

[duncan228]

All this means is Bonner is going to continue to take longer then expected IMO...

The latest on Bonner, from practice this morning.


...Forward Matt Bonner went through the most extensive set of drills as he recovers from bone marrow edema in his right knee.

Bonner looked sharp in both his conditioning and his shooting. His return would be exceptionally important in the early part of the upcoming road trip when the Spurs play four games in five days starting Tuesday night in Detroit.

Owens returns to D-League as Bonner’s work intensifies (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/owens-returns-to-d-league-as-bonners-work-intensifies/)
Tim Griffin

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/owens-returns-to-d-league-as-bonners-work-intensifies/

[crc21209]

The latest on Bonner, from practice this morning.



Owens returns to D-League as Bonner’s work intensifies (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/owens-returns-to-d-league-as-bonners-work-intensifies/)
Tim Griffin

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/owens-returns-to-d-league-as-bonners-work-intensifies/

If Bonner could come back sometime this week it would be huge. We can't afford to burn out TD and Dice too much this week. If Splitter, Blair, and Bonner could all help out with that that would be awesome...:tu

[jjktkk]

If that's true, then Pop is creaming all himself and has his new man-crush. Expect Novak to get the Finley-like Valentines Day treatment.

:lol

NNC0kIzM1Fo

[Spurs Brazil]

If Bonner is close why we sign Novak?

It'd be better sign a true SF since JA is back with the Toros

[G-Dawgg]

Steve Novak is no Bonner. Too many people undervalue Bonner based on a few weak playoffs showings... mark my words: If we were to lose bonner we'd be in a tight spot. Find me another player his size that's got his kind of 3 point accuracy and I'll take him on this team.. not very common huh? Until then Bonner is our man.

[Bruno]

With Anderson send to the Toros and Bonner clsoe to being back, I guess, that unlike what I first thought, Novak will play some minutes at SF.

[jjktkk]

Is Bonner is close why we sign Novak?

It'd be better sign a true SF since JA is back with the Toros

+1. Best guess is Pop is watching the waiver wire for a true sf type.

[Whisky Dog]

Has anyone picked up a 10 day street guy mid season and have him eventually make any kind of significant contribution to a playoff run?

[Mugen]

Has anyone picked up a 10 day street guy mid season and have him eventually make any kind of significant contribution to a playoff run?

wasn't Glenn Big Dog Robinson a 10 day in 2005?

I remember him having a big game in that years playoffs. not sure tho

[awktalk]

Steve Novak is no Bonner. Too many people undervalue Bonner based on a few weak playoffs showings... mark my words: If we were to lose bonner we'd be in a tight spot. Find me another player his size that's got his kind of 3 point accuracy and I'll take him on this team.. not very common huh? Until then Bonner is our man.

Splitter probably does, but because Pop doesn't give him consistent minutes or call plays to give him consistent looks, he hasn't been able to develop it.

[Mugen]

Splitter probably does, but because Pop doesn't give him consistent minutes or call plays to give him consistent looks, he hasn't been able to develop it.

Splitter's good game against Sacramento really got you butthurt, huh?

I doubt he gets much time when Bonner gets back so i don't know why you're getting your panties in a bunch over it.

[awktalk]

Splitter's good game against Sacramento really got you butthurt, huh?

I doubt he gets much time when Bonner gets back so i don't know why you're getting your panties in a bunch over it.

Not at all, I would like nothing more to see him be a dominant force for the Spurs. I'm a Spurs fan, whatever is best for the team is what I want to see happen. This is directed at all the morans on this board that turn every single thread into 2nd guessing Pop's coaching when we're farking 42-8.

[ChumpDumper]

morans:wakeup

[Mel_13]

moops

[awktalk]

moops

http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/n/U/moran.jpg

[hsxvvd]

Isn't this the dude from Blue Chips?

[awktalk]

Isn't this the dude from Blue Chips?

Could be. I thought it was Kenny Powers after he got cut from spring training.

[ChumpDumper]

http://0.tqn.com/d/politicalhumor/1/0/n/U/moran.jpg
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_jnskQdAz9QE/Soi4ppAqoZI/AAAAAAAAVok/BG86WxRy-WU/erin_1%5B7%5D.jpg

[awktalk]

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_jnskQdAz9QE/Soi4ppAqoZI/AAAAAAAAVok/BG86WxRy-WU/erin_1%5B7%5D.jpg

Is that what teabaggers look like when they're young?

[ChumpDumper]

Is that what teabaggers look like when they're young?I don't know her politics. Only her name.

[weebo]

fuck steve novak

[Mugen]

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_jnskQdAz9QE/Soi4ppAqoZI/AAAAAAAAVok/BG86WxRy-WU/erin_1%5B7%5D.jpg

chachi with the goods.

[ChumpDumper]

Yeah, back to the topic -- he's not very good. I just don't see that he has enough going for him to stay on the floor.

[DPG21920]

:td. Stupid signing. Pointless.

[DMC]

I don't want to get into another Tiago debate, but the Kings game should not be used as an indicator of his progress. There was almost zero defense from the Kings in that game. Tony and Tim were running layup drills.

[Obstructed_View]

I don't want to get into another Tiago debate, but the Kings game should not be used as an indicator of his progress. There was almost zero defense from the Kings in that game. Tony and Tim were running layup drills.

The Kings game is an indicator that he's a legitimate player in the NBA. Progress comes from actually getting consistent playing time. Besides, the defense to be focusing on comes from Splitter, not from the opponent.

[Obstructed_View]

Splitter has no 3pt range.. He can't even shoot consistently out from 15 feet...

Yeah, he shouldn't be backing up Blair, who excels at that very thing.

[G-Dawgg]

Yeah, he shouldn't be backing up Blair, who excels at that very thing.
Tiago should be in the all star game I guess huh?.....:rolleyes

[Gagnrath]

Has anyone picked up a 10 day street guy mid season and have him eventually make any kind of significant contribution to a playoff run?

Temple was significant against the mavs last year, not huge but significant.

Honestly unsure of why he's not around in place of Quinn other than Pop realizing he's just injury insurance here and will not get a roll in the next 3 years behind Manu, Hill, Parker, and Neal where as he can probably be a rotation player somewhere else but nothing super.

Anyone else notice that the spurs really do seem to make an effort to give players that would be non essential to team success the chance to find opportunities else where if they make a request?

[ohmwrecker]

:td. Stupid signing. Pointless.

I would've rather kept Owens tbh.

[Mel_13]

I would've rather kept Owens tbh.

10 day v. rest of season commitment. Once we get past the veteran buyouts at the end of the month, they can always go back and sign Owens if they want to ensure he's on the SL team and in training camp.

[024]

pop finding every excuse to not play splitter.

[dbestpro]

Tiago should be in the all star game I guess huh?.....:rolleyes

No, we wouldn't want him to take Blair's spot.:rolleyes:rolleyes

[SenorSpur]

The Kings game is an indicator that he's a legitimate player in the NBA. Progress comes from actually getting consistent playing time. Besides, the defense to be focusing on comes from Splitter, not from the opponent.

Agreed. There aren't too many players who can thrive with 2-3 minutes of garbage time every 4-5 games.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Novak is an absolutely dead-eye shooter with no other discernable skills. I thought we might sign him in the off-season and let Bonner go, although I think Bonner is a much more rounded player.

Does this mean that Bonner is out long-term? Or just that Pop feels naked without a 3pt-shooting PF security blanket? :lmao

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

The Kings game is an indicator that he's a legitimate player in the NBA. Progress comes from actually getting consistent playing time. Besides, the defense to be focusing on comes from Splitter, not from the opponent.

Exactly. The great D in the Faker game, then the breakout against the Kings, were confimation that Splitter can play in the NBA and that he's slowly improving. He's going to be a very nice player given time.

[benefactor]

Or just that Pop feels naked without a 3pt-shooting PF security blanket? :lmao
This is probably the case.

[duncan228]

...Novak could sign as early as Tuesday, in time to join the Spurs in Detroit.

Novak will be Spurs’ latest 13th (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/novak-will-be-spurs-latest-13th/)
Jeff McDonald

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/novak-will-be-spurs-latest-13th/

[SenorSpur]

I saw this guy a few times earlier this season, when he played for the Mavs. It's great that he's such a dead-eye shooter. However, I would think that he would need at least another discernable skill or two, to be able to make it. Teams will most certainly drive him off the arc, which means he'd have to be able to at least put the ball on the floor, or move a bit laterally to create space. Something that Bonner and Neal both can do pretty well.

Does anyone think that Novak has a chance to stick through the rest of the season?

However it works out, at least Bonner now has a short-term buddy that he can drag off to search for sandwiches with, on road trips.

[Ditty]

Novak will be Spurs’ latest 13th (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/novak-will-be-spurs-latest-13th/)
Jeff McDonald

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/07/novak-will-be-spurs-latest-13th/

I like how that is a picture of cardinal except novak :lol

[Obstructed_View]

Does anyone think that Novak has a chance to stick through the rest of the season?

Only if Bonner's injury is season-threatening.

[ohmwrecker]

Only if Bonner's injury is season-threatening.

Jeez, if Bonner's injury is season threatening I would hope they could come up with something better than Steve fucking Novak.

[MaNu4Tres]

Jeez, if Bonner's injury is season threatening I would hope they could come up with something better than Steve fucking Novak.

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0d4Y4aseST87Y/439x.jpg

[ducks]

hope this means in below average teams it means less manu

spurs need the big three in postseason

[ducks]

Jeez, if Bonner's injury is season threatening I would hope they could come up with something better than Steve fucking Novak.

yeah those type of players are easy to trade for without messing up the chemistry in the best record team in the nba

[ElNono]

Just another D-Leaguer to fill up that league mandated 13th roster spot. He might get a look in garbage time, but he'll probably be cut as soon as his contract needs to be guaranteed...

[crc21209]

Just another D-Leaguer to fill up that league mandated 13th roster spot. He might get a look in garbage time, but he'll probably be cut as soon as his contract needs to be guaranteed...

This. :tu

[gospursgojas]

Steve Novak is decent. Better than owens

[xmas1997]

Terrible defense and a worse rebounder. His defense makes Bonner look like Bowen!

[spurspokesman]

Eh, garbage signing.

He'll be gone in 10-20 days.
This

[Ditty]

Novak is clutch!!

N7tsLkcJqO0

GHKWJ8yCqBE

I've always know novak of being one of the biggest cheerleaders in the league, but rockets fans seemed to love him, but again rocket fans are really biased towards there players, and one day the will love the guy, and next day they will hate him.

[awktalk]

Novak is clutch!!

N7tsLkcJqO0

GHKWJ8yCqBE

I've always know novak of being one of the biggest cheerleaders in the league, but rockets fans seemed to love him, but again rocket fans are really biased towards there players, and one day the will love the guy, and next day they will hate him.

It looked like Yao was going to eat him. Did he eat him?

[tuncaboylu]

I think Novak is not assigned for Splitter's position, they're going to use him as SF instead of James Anderson next 10 days.

[justinandimcool]

It looked like Yao was going to eat him. Did he eat him?

Eat da head!

[Danny.Zhu]

He can not play defense.

[ohmwrecker]

He can not play defense.

Pretty sure that's been covered, Sparky.

[BlairForceDejuan]

Bonner wtf is up with your knee????

[Mel_13]

Steve Novak signed 10 day with Spurs before morning shootaround. Will be available tonight at Detroit.

http://twitter.com/JMcDonald_SAEN

[Manu-of-steel]

If Novak's ability is being a good shooter, then, tp, manu, and timmy have the ability to find open team mates. But i agree to what most of you are saying- it's just a 10 day contract, why not?

[Bruno]

It's noteworthy that Spurs have changed their philosophy to fill these deep end of the bench spots:
Last year, Spurs mainly went with rookies (Temple, Gee, Jerrells and Cedric Jackson). This year Spurs are mainly going with vets (Simmons, Udoka, Quinn and Novak).

This change could be explained with the combination of last year signings failure and the addition of three rookies with a guaranteed contract (Neal, Splitter and Anderson). Spurs haven't high hopes that a D-League prospect can turn into a legit NBA player and they are more looking at experience than youth to balance their roster.

At the end of the month, some vets will be bought out. Last year, Spurs were on the "giving" side with Finley's buyout. This year, I expect them to be on the other side and to try to sign a bought out vet, especially if the Novak audition doesn't work.

[Bruno]

And I'm curious to see what Novak will do in Spurs system. This guy is such a great shooter...

[dbestpro]

And I'm curious to see what Novak will do in Spurs system. This guy is such a great shooter...

Agreed. When given a few minutes he did average 6 ppg with the Clippers. The way our offense is designed he could actually pan out.

If he's on the floor guarding the other team's perimeter big he can do no worse than any big we have now who goes out on the perimeter as those shots heve been pretty much wide open, all season.

He actually can be quite a weapon on the floor at the end of a quarter.

[ace3g]

in the games he has played this year, he is 3/4 from 3...

[portnoy1]

Novak can play either Forward position which kinda makes him a little more valuable than Bonner. Bonner cant play small forward PERIOD. Which means that the spurs can never have 2 strong defenders/rebounders on the floor cause he takes one of those spots. If Novak can play the 3 plus play what I call danny ferry defense(funnel your man baseline to a shot blocker/charge taker) then the spurs will be in great shape and might be able to unload bonner at the deadline for a draft pick or hopefully a defensive specialist.

[ace3g]

JMcDonald_SAEN Jeff McDonald
Steve Novak will wear No. 23 for the #spurs. Oddly, Alonzo Gee's old uniform number hasn't been retired.

[Darkwaters]

JMcDonald_SAEN Jeff McDonald
Steve Novak will wear No. 23 for the #spurs. Oddly, Alonzo Gee's old uniform number hasn't been retired.

And there was gnashing of teeth.

[ChumpDumper]

Novak can play either Forward position which kinda makes him a little more valuable than Bonner. Bonner cant play small forward PERIOD. Which means that the spurs can never have 2 strong defenders/rebounders on the floor cause he takes one of those spots. If Novak can play the 3 plus play what I call danny ferry defense(funnel your man baseline to a shot blocker/charge taker) then the spurs will be in great shape and might be able to unload bonner at the deadline for a draft pick or hopefully a defensive specialist.lol

[duncan228]

43 seconds of highlights from NBA.com

Callup: Steve Novak

http://www.nba.com/video/channels/nba_tv/2011/02/08/20110208_novak_callup.nba/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt2

[ivanfromwestwood]

ha ha. all you dumb asses with this trade Bonner shit. he is a big reason we have such a good record. im shocked when he misses.

[ace3g]

Pop's reasonable expectation for Steve Novak is simple: "“If I put him in, I want him to make a shot." #spurs
JMcDonald_SAEN 4 mins
more retweet favorite reply

[ducks]

:22.5 SA - Steve Novak makes a 23-foot three-pointer from the left corner. Assist: Chris Quinn

[TDMVPDPOY]

looks like a keeper

be good if he could improve his defense, he could be here for the long run

[HarlemHeat37]

:lol Earlier in this thread, I said Novak cost me $ in the Spurs-Mavs game earlier in the season, by making a garbage 3 to hit the OVER..

Tonight, he made a garbage 3 to hit the OVER, this time, on my side:lol..I guess it all evens out..

[Spursmania]

:lol Earlier in this thread, I said Novak cost me $ in the Spurs-Mavs game earlier in the season, by making a garbage 3 to hit the OVER..

Tonight, he made a garbage 3 to hit the OVER, this time, on my side:lol..I guess it all evens out..

:toast

[duncan228]

After appearing in seven games with Dallas to start the season, Novak signed with the Development League’s Reno Bighorns, lasting two games in NBA limbo before the Spurs called.

“I didn’t know what to expect (in the D-League),” said Novak, a career 40.6-percent 3-point shooter who also has spent time with the Clippers and Houston. “It just felt really good to know someone was watching.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/08/bonner-contributes-in-return/

[The Truth #6]

Good signing. I guess Pop figures its too late in the season to try and teach a new player defense. Just get someone else in who can at least shoot the ball. Less coaching needed. He's bouncing around the league a lot so obviously his game has huge holes, but with the Spurs his one skill will be appreciated.

[Spurs Brazil]

Clock is ticking for Novak
Posted on February 9, 2011 at 11:00 am by Jeff McDonald

On his first night as a San Antonio Spur, Steve Novak sat in the locker room at the Palace of Auburn Hills, going over his pregame scouting report and drilling the basics of his new team’s system with new teammates Matt Bonner and Richard Jefferson.

“I’ve been here two years,” Jefferson remarked, “and I still don’t know what I’m doing.”

With that, Novak’s eyes widened.

“I’ve only got 10 days!” he exclaimed.



Keep reading - http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/09/clock-is-ticking-for-novak/

[duncan228]

Novak’s gamble leads to Spurs (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/10/novak%e2%80%99s-gamble-leads-to-spurs/)
Jeff McDonald

When the Dallas Mavericks waived four-year NBA veteran Steve Novak on Jan. 5, the 6-foot-10 forward was faced with two options.

He could head to Europe, where there is still good money to be made for NBA castoffs. Or he could slum it in the NBA’s Development League, making far less than he would overseas but still with a hope of returning to the NBA this season.

Novak, 27, chose the second option, joining the Reno Bighorns in part to stay close to his wife and 6-month-old son.

“I waited around for a little while to see what happened in Europe,” Novak said. “But at least for this year, I wanted to stay in the U.S.”

Keep reading... (http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/10/novak%e2%80%99s-gamble-leads-to-spurs/)

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/10/novak%e2%80%99s-gamble-leads-to-spurs/

[duncan228]

...Perhaps the biggest winner for the Spurs was forward Steve Novak, who was playing on the fifth day of his 10-day contract. Because of the lopsided nature of the game, Novak got to play 23:17, scoring seven points and going 2 of 6 from the field.

“It was great to get an opportunity,” Novak said. “You’ve got to try to make the most of it.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/12/hill-benefits-from-starting-cameo/

[crc21209]

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/12/hill-benefits-from-starting-cameo/

Surprisingly I don't feel bad when this guy is out there...I'm confident in him. At least he can knock down shots. Hell, he's no Udoka that's for sure...:lol

[dbestpro]

Surprisingly I don't feel bad when this guy is out there...I'm confident in him. At least he can knock down shots. Hell, he's no Udoka that's for sure...:lol

Novak did not have a great game, but by being on the floor he caused the Wiz to keep their defense spread out as they would not rotate away from him to provide help defense.

[Darkwaters]

If this was last year I'd think that Novak might have a chance of sticking. With 3 point shooting at such a premium last year he would have made sense. But considering the advanced ability of our shooters this year with major improvements from Jefferson (up from.316 to .427 on significantly more attempts), Bonner (up from .390 to .508) and even a little production from Parker on this front means Novak might be unnecessary. Add to that the addition of Neal and, to a lesser degree, Anderson, we're looking much improved.

So why do we need a another one-dimensional shooter on the squad? Especially as some of our shooters have shown advanced and more well rounded games with the ability to not just shoot but also put the ball on the floor when they're run off the 3 pt line (ie, Neal and Bonner).

Novak is a great shooter, but I'm not sure how he fits in the rotation. He might stick, but I doubt hes necessary. I doubt he sees any meaningful minutes (especially with Bonner back) this season and definitely not in the offseason even if he is retained all season. So does he have a spot on the team next year? Probably not either.

I'd rather roll the dice on some D-Leaguer with a shot at upside and sticking in a distinctive new role.

[Whisky Dog]

No D Leaguer is going to magically stick in the rotation of a 46-9 team that's rolling. I think you keep Novak because of his shooting and experience in the league. We know that Bonner will play well at times now but shrivel like a raisin at the first sign of May playoff basketball, so I'd keep Novak to see if he can at least get to the point by season's end where he can spell Bonner in a playoff game once Bonner goes into turtle mode and hopefully Novak has enough huevos to actually knock down a few playoff threes in his limited minutes.

[Big P]

If this was last year I'd think that Novak might have a chance of sticking. With 3 point shooting at such a premium last year he would have made sense. But considering the advanced ability of our shooters this year with major improvements from Jefferson (up from.316 to .427 on significantly more attempts), Bonner (up from .390 to .508) and even a little production from Parker on this front means Novak might be unnecessary. Add to that the addition of Neal and, to a lesser degree, Anderson, we're looking much improved.

So why do we need a another one-dimensional shooter on the squad? Especially as some of our shooters have shown advanced and more well rounded games with the ability to not just shoot but also put the ball on the floor when they're run off the 3 pt line (ie, Neal and Bonner).

Novak is a great shooter, but I'm not sure how he fits in the rotation. He might stick, but I doubt hes necessary. I doubt he sees any meaningful minutes (especially with Bonner back) this season and definitely not in the offseason even if he is retained all season. So does he have a spot on the team next year? Probably not either.

I'd rather roll the dice on some D-Leaguer with a shot at upside and sticking in a distinctive new role.

We are going to need and sign at least 2 and possibly 3 players for the stretch run.... I think having Novak is great insurance...someone you can feel confident in, that he will make a 3 or at least stretch the defense...now we can look for another big and or a shooter like Jerrels..and be 15 deep for the playoffs.

[Darkwaters]

[/B]

We are going to need and sign at least 2 and possibly 3 players for the stretch run.... I think having Novak is great insurance...someone you can feel confident in, that he will make a 3 or at least stretch the defense...now we can look for another big and or a shooter like Jerrels..and be 15 deep for the playoffs.

You do realize that in the playoffs we'll likely run a 9 man rotation (Parker, Hill, Ginobili, Jefferson, Neal, Duncan, McDyess, Blair and Bonner). Everyone else will be there for injury protection and/or garbage time. Anderson and Tiago likely sit.

[SenorSpur]

You do realize that in the playoffs we'll likely run a 9 man rotation (Parker, Hill, Ginobili, Jefferson, Neal, Duncan, McDyess, Blair and Bonner). Everyone else will be there for injury protection and/or garbage time. Anderson and Tiago likely sit.

...unless of course, the Spurs land a veteran player of size (a la Troy Murphy), who could possibly be used to squeeze out some playoff minutes versus an opponent with size (i.e. Fakers, Celtics).

Yes, it's an overdiscussed topic, but the Spurs distinct size disadvantage IS still a concern, as we move toward the playoffs.

[Chomag]

...unless of course, the Spurs land a veteran player of size (a la Troy Murphy), who could possibly be used to squeeze out some playoff minutes versus an opponent with size (i.e. Fakers, Celtics).

Yes, it's an overdiscussed topic, but the Spurs distinct size disadvantage IS still a concern, as we move toward the playoffs.

I'll have to agree with you, as fun as the season has been.

Thing is, I think the Spurs regular season record this season might be clouding allot of the goggles. Little do we forget how much we tease the mavs at being the regular season champs. Cavs had the best record last season but that did not automatically mean they were a championship team.

Spurs are one of the most talented teams in the league no doubt, but there are still some very large holes(weaknesses) that they will have to overcome.

What strikes me the most about the Spur's weak areas that they have are very vital for playoff success such as size, and defence. At least thats how league history shows it.

I'm still not sure if the Spurs will have enough to overcome these major weaknesses but I am hopeful.

[Indazone]

Novak will be a crowd favorite. Everyone wants to see if the dude will hit his shot. He's an incredible 3 pt shooter but he can't play defense a lick. Maybe Pop can send him to summer camp like he sent Jefferson and Novak can learn a few tricks.

[SenorSpur]

I'll have to agree with you, as fun as the season has been.

Thing is, I think the Spurs regular season record this season might be clouding allot of the goggles. Little do we forget how much we tease the mavs at being the regular season champs. Cavs had the best record last season but that did not automatically mean they were a championship team.

Spurs are one of the most talented teams in the league no doubt, but there are still some very large holes(weaknesses) that they will have to overcome.

What strikes me the most about the Spur's weak areas that they have are very vital for playoff success such as size, and defence. At least thats how league history shows it.

I'm still not sure if the Spurs will have enough to overcome these major weaknesses but I am hopeful.

Same here. Yet, it's a topic of concern and one worth discussing. Unfortunately, I have the memories of that shellacking by the Suns etched in my mind. There no way the Spurs have improved or plugged holes enough to mitigate the defensive woes that were exposed in the playoffs. The record has masked a lot and it will be fools gold, should the Spurs falter along the way, without so much as a trip to the Finals.

[xellos88330]

Same here. Yet, it's a topic of concern and one worth discussing. Unfortunately, I have the memories of that shellacking by the Suns etched in my mind. There no way the Spurs have improved or plugged holes enough to mitigate the defensive woes that were exposed in the playoffs. The record has masked a lot and it will be fools gold, should the Spurs falter along the way, without so much as a trip to the Finals.

The major problems with last years Spurs was their lack of footspeed and the shooters being too 1 dimensional. They definitely have some pep in their step so far this season and the guard play isn't one dimensional anymore.

[DrSteffo]

Neal is so much better than RMJ in all aspects of the game. I still feel a bit sick when thinking about RMJ and Bogans getting significant minutes last season.

[duncan228]

...Novak completed the 10th day of his 10-day contract with Thursday’s game in Chicago. The Spurs could opt to sign him to a second 10-day contract, but are likely to wait until after the break to decide whether to do so.

“I’m not sure how they’re going to handle it,” said Novak, who has appeared in five games with the Spurs. “Just have to wait and see.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2011/02/19/popovich-reminds-team-much-work-remains/

[ace3g]

JMcDonald_SAEN Jeff McDonald
Big, breaking post-All Star news: The Spurs have opted to sign Steve Novak to a second 10-day contract. Melo who? #spurs

[Muser]

Meh..

[xmas1997]

It'll be his last with the Spurs.

[DesignatedT]

Just means they don't feel Anderson in back in good enough shape yet.

[coyotes_geek]

A glimpse into the future...............

JMcDonald_SAEN Jeff McDonald
Big, breaking news 11 days from now: The Spurs have opted not to re-sign Steve Novak to a remainder of the year contract.

[DesignatedT]

btw is there any news on Tiago? Is this guy going to be able to go Wednesday?

[Seventyniner]

btw is there any news on Tiago? Is this guy going to be able to go Wednesday?

This is what I want to know. Does it need its own thread?

[Darkwaters]

This is what I want to know. Does it need its own thread?

Likely.

I don't typically look through the Steve Novak thread for info on Tiago Splitter. :lol

[Ice009]

I'm actually surprised that he's been resigned.

[UnWantedTheory]

Woot Woot! Stevie Novak to the rescue!

[coyotes_geek]

I'm actually surprised that he's been resigned.

Meh. He's cheap and can be a warm body for the next 10 days, after which he vanishes and the Spurs can start targeting guys getting bought out after the trade deadline.

[lefty]

Woot Woot! Stevie Novak to the rescue!
Choo-choo for Neal

Woot Woot! for Novak

[Bruno]

Anderson is still in Austin and Splitter is day to day. Having an extra body like Novak is a welcomed addition.

Having 13 players under contract at the trade deadline will also allow Spurs to do a 2 for 1 if there is an opportunity.

[Indazone]

Novak can at least play as well as Brent Barry in his final 2 or 3 seasons with the Spurs. All Brent did was stand around on the perimiter and pass the ball to another teammate if he wasn't wide open to take the shot.

[JR3]

Novak can at least play as well as Brent Barry in his final 2 or 3 seasons with the Spurs. All Brent did was stand around on the perimiter and pass the ball to another teammate if he wasn't wide open to take the shot.

Brent Barry was much better at passing the ball and way better at local commercials.

[coyotes_geek]

Novak can at least play as well as Brent Barry in his final 2 or 3 seasons with the Spurs. All Brent did was stand around on the perimiter and pass the ball to another teammate if he wasn't wide open to take the shot.

Brent handled the ball way more than any sane person would want Novak to.

[hater]

I just don't get this. A poor man's Matt Bonner in the same team Matt Bonner is in???

[xmas1997]

This is what I want to know. Does it need its own thread?

Short answer? Yes.

Long answer? Yeeeeesssssss

:lol

[Splits]

Anderson is still in Austin and Splitter is day to day. Having an extra body like Novak is a welcomed addition.

Having 13 players under contract at the trade deadline will also allow Spurs to do a 2 for 1 if there is an opportunity.

So who will be inactive tonight? My guess is Splitman :depressed