Free Agency: Top 25 Richard Jefferson Replacements

[timvp]

With the news that the Spurs are going to use the amnesty provision on Richard Jefferson, it's now official that the team is in the market for help at the small forward position. Here is my list of the top 25 available free agents that fit what the Spurs need at small forward. The order also considers their likely cost on the open market.

1. Tayshaun Prince
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3621.jpg
4 years, $21.4 million
Many attributes make Tayshaun Prince a very good fit for the Spurs. First of all, he has a lot of playoff experience and knows all about being a fourth or fifth option on a contending team. While no longer a great defender, he's still good on that end. Pop loves players who contend shots but don't foul -- and that's exactly what Prince does on that end. Offensively he has enough range to spread the floor and he's an underrated passer. Unfortunately, there's a real chance that he will get more money than the Spurs can offer.

2. Andrei Kirilenko
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3347.jpg
4 years, $21.4 million
Last season, Andrei Kirilenko made nearly $18 million. Though he's obviously not worth that sort of money, he'd be a bargain at an MLE deal. In San Antonio, he could start at small forward and give Pop a very capable small ball power forward. Kirilenko's athleticism and activity on defense makes him a disruptive force. He can get out and run and is a good finisher at the rim. His shooting is shaky, which would hurt his fit with the Spurs. But, that said, Kirilenko plays much better in international competition and the Spurs run the most European offense in the league so perhaps even his scoring could re-blossom. Like Prince, a higher-than-MLE offer is probably in AK47's future.

3. Grant Hill
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/2626.jpg
1 year, $3 million
Even though Grant Hill is 39 years old, he's still a really good player. All those years of battling ankle injuries has allowed him to extend his career. His best attribute today is his defense; it's safe to say he's the best 39-year-old defender in the history of the NBA. He's quick, long and smart on D and is able to defend four positions. On offense, Hill doesn't have much range but picks his spots well and isn't a liability. Though he has been extremely durable the last four seasons with Phoenix, the Suns have a training staff that specializes in keeping injury-prone players on the court. In San Antonio would Hill remain as healthy? That's a legit concern. Plus, Hill has turned down the Spurs a number of times in the past so it's unlikely that he'd change course now.

4. Luc Richard Mbah a Moute (R)
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4498.jpg
3 years, $9 million
Yes, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute is a poor offensive player. He can't shoot to save his life (except again the Spurs, it seems). Even worse, Mbah a Moute seems to spend most of his time trying to hide when his team has the ball. Even given his putrid offensive game, his defense is so good that I think he'd be a good fit in San Antonio. Mbah a Moute is tall, long and can really move his feet. In Pop's defensive scheme, it wouldn't be much of a surprise for him to emerge as the best perimeter defender in the league. Mbah a Moute also rebounds extremely well and is a plus character-wise.

5. Mike Dunleavy, Jr.
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3601.jpg
3 years, $9 million
Mike Dunleavy's career has been derailed due to injuries over the last few years. However, if available at a fair price, he'd be a worthy gamble. Dunleavy's basketball IQ is perhaps his biggest strength, which makes him a solid help defender and positive impact offensively. He can shoot from deep, get to the line and is a better rebounder and shotblocker than expected.

6. Caron Butler
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3608.jpg
4 years, $21.4 million
A talented scorer, Caron Butler can knock down mid-range jumpers and is a difficult cover in one-on-one situations. While with the Mavericks, his defensive intensity was a lot better than earlier in his career. Does he fit well with the Spurs? I don't really see it. The Spurs don't run many isolation sets and he's a shaky three-point shooter. Additionally, he suffered a torn patellar tendon last season so there's no guarantee he can regain his previous form. On paper, a volume shooter with limited three-point range doesn't fit next to the Big Three. However, reports indicate that Butler is the No. 1 target for Pop and the Spurs this offseason so perhaps they have a plan on how he can fit.

7. Shane Battier
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3516.jpg
4 years, $21.4 million
On paper, Shane Battier fits pretty darn well. On offense, he's content to catch-and-shoot threes from the corners. He's tough defender, even though he's lost a step from his prime. Battier's personality would be a great fit in the lockerroom. All that said, I think he's too limited for as much money as he'll demand on the open market. He doesn't score enough and he's not a good enough defender anymore to be worth a full MLE deal. And at 33 years old, he's about the age where he'll lose another step, which could wipe away all of his defensive value.

8. Jonas Jerebko (R)
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4644.jpg
4 years, $15 million
A forgotten man on the free agent market, the Pistons undoubtedly hope it stays that way. As a rookie, the native of Sweden was really good. Jerebko has a high motor, plays extremely hard, rebounds very well and can defend both forward positions. He missed all of last season, which would have been his sophomore campaign, with a torn Achilles but has reportedly healed well. It would be a bit of a gamble because at 6-foot-10 he may no longer be able to play small forward if he lost any quickness due to the injury, but Jerebko could theoretically help now and be a building block for the future.

9. Reggie Williams (R)
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4710.jpg
3 years, $9 million
When it comes to young, talented scorers, Reggie Williams could very well be the best option on the market. Not only is he a quality shooter from deep, he understands how to move without the ball and makes really good decisions. He has that "it" factor in regards to just knowing how to score. However, he isn't without flaws. Williams has never been in good shape and is a poor defender. Does he have the dedication to thrive on a contender? It's questionable.

10. Vince Carter
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3248.jpg
2 years, $6 million
Ah, Vince Carter. A guy who had all the tools to go down as one of the game's greats but seemingly just didn't care enough. Now that his physical abilities are eroding, he's probably headed toward an ugly end to his career. So why is he ranked this high? Good question. Firstly, since the Suns already owe him $4 million this season, it's possible to sign him for a relatively cheap deal. And second of all, that talent is still seductive. If he ever really started to care, he could be a damn good player -- even today. But that's a gargantuan If.

11. Josh Howard
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3732.jpg
3 years, $9 million
In the last three seasons, Josh Howard has played a total of 53 games. He hasn't played a complete season since the 2007-08 season. Spurs fans may remember him as a playoff headache -- but it's been a long time since he was even a decent NBA player. He no longer has three-point range, he has character red flags and his quickness has deteriorated drastically. But since he'll be cheap and he's still just 31, Howard might be worth rolling the dice. There's a chance he could become an above average small forward again, although not a very good chance.

12. Anthony Parker
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3171.jpg
2 years, $6 million
Much like Battier, Anthony Parker fits on paper: he can shoot, he can defend and he's a good character guy. But even though he'll be a lot cheaper than Battier, he's a questionable fit for what the Spurs need. At 6-foot-6, he's much more of a guard than a small forward. And at 36, he's quickly losing the little athleticism he has left.

13. Al Thornton
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4292.jpg
3 years, $9 million
Al Thornton is 6-foot-8, built like a tank and can jump. He's much stronger than most small forwards and much too quick for any power forward. (One of Thornton's hobbies is destroying Matt Bonner whenever the two are on the court together.) He will also not demand that much money on the open market. So why is he so low on this list? He's as dumb as a pile of bricks. Thornton has no idea how to play the game of basketball. He can put points on the board, he can rebound and he has the tools to defend -- but it just hasn't clicked yet with him ... and likely never will.

14. Peja Stojakovic
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3119.jpg
1 year, minimum
Peja Stojakovic's bulky back has made him a shadow of his former self. When his back is acting up, he can hardly move. His career may very well be over due to his back. But, as we saw last year in the playoffs, when he's feeling good, Stojakovic is still one of the best shooters in the solar system. His size and quick release makes him deadly when he's on. If the Spurs could get him for a minimum deal, they could hope that his back is loose come playoff time.

15. Michael Redd
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3442.jpg
1 year, minimum
Michael Redd is in the same boat as Stojakovic, except his problem is a knee that keeps imploding. He has only played 18 games the last two seasons and looked really bad in those games. The Spurs could take a low cost gamble and hope Redd's knee has another season in it. But since Redd has never been known as a hard worker, the chances of a bounce back season are slim.

16. Vladimir Radmanovic
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3522.jpg
2 years, $5 million
Vladimir Radmanovic remains a tease. At 6-foot-10, he can stroke it from deep and is surprisingly quick and athletic for his size. On the Spurs, he could play both forward positions while spreading the floor and not being too much of a liability on defense. The problem is that his effort level is suspect and he never seems mentally engaged.

17. DeShawn Stevenson
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3422.jpg
2 years, $6 million
In reality, DeShawn Stevenson is a player who should be paid the minimum. But since he's coming off a championship run, he'll be overpaid. Stevenson, when his back is cooperating, is a really good defender. He doesn't blink and isn't afraid to mix it up. Offensively, the only thing he can do is loft his iffy three-point shots -- though that honestly isn't too much of a bad thing in San Antonio. Overall, his extremely limited offensive game and injury history make him a gamble at anything more than the a couple million dollars a year.

18. Gary Forbes (R)
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4805.jpg
2 years, $4 million
Gary Forbes came out of nowhere to have a solid rookie season with the Nuggets last year. He's not much of an outside shooter or defender but he can score and has shown a well-rounded game. Forbes doesn't have a high ceiling, though it appears as if he has the tools to be a functional rotation player going forward. The native of Panama is a good bet to carve out an NBA career.

19. Julian Wright
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4291.jpg
1 year, minimum
A former top-flight prospect, Julian Wright just never reached any of his potential. He's an athletic 6-foot-8 wing who can handle the rock a bit and he plays hard. But Wright can't shoot, has lost all confidence and doesn't make an impact defensively even though he's built like a guy who should be able to defend. He is still just 24, which is why he's even this high on the list, but I haven't seen any reason to believe he'll figure it out.

20. Jamario Moon
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4342.jpg
2 year, $4 million
A cult favorite when he broke into the league with the Raptors, Jamario Moon's career has flatlined. Teams have learned that he can't dribble so they crowd his jumper. Today, Moon relies on contested threes and alleyoops to score the few points he's able to produce. He can rebound and seems to have the tools to defend so he's not totally worthless … but paying him more than the minimum would likely end up being a mistake.

21. James Jones
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3752.jpg
1 year, minimum
All James Jones can do is shoot three-pointers. That's it. He never takes the ball to the basket and is worthless offensively if he can't get his shot off. On defense, James is decent thanks to his long 6-foot-8 frame, but he's hardly anything to write home about. Even at the minimum, the Spurs should be looking for more than a player who can just shoot.

22. Maurice Evans
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3568.jpg
1 year, minimum
Maurice Evans lives in San Antonio and he's a high character guy. He likes shooting corner threes and will compete on defense. But with his athleticism in decline and limited talent to begin with, Evans holds little value. A few years ago, he could have made sense. However, the Spurs weren't interested then and I don't know why that would change now.

23. Derrick Brown
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4645.jpg
1 year, minimum
Derrick Brown is ultra athletic, and at 6-foot-8, he looks like an imposing small forward. Unfortunately for him, he hasn't shown enough perimeter skill to be anything more than a small, skinny power forward. He can't shoot and can't dribble. The hope with signing Brown would be to send him to Austin for a year and try to mold him into a small forward … but it's unlikely he'll amount to anything.

24. Dominic McGuire
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/4338.jpg
1 year, minimum
If the NBA allowed designated defenders, Dominic McGuire would be a rich man. At 6-foot-9, he can defend just about every position on the court. But he's such a train wreck offensively that his time in the league is probably coming to an end. Outside of Jared Jeffries, he's probably the worst offensive player in the league. The worst part of his offense is that he doesn't seem to realize how bad he is at it.

25. Rasual Butler
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/4.0/global/basketball/nba/players/3650.jpg
1 year, minimum
He's a James Jones clone but a worse shooter and worse defender.


Not listed for being too expensive: Arron Afflalo, Jeff Green, Thaddeus Young, Jason Richardson

[stephen jackson]

the list gets horrible after jho

[DPG21920]

I would move a few around, most notably I'd have AK47 as my number 1 and Dun above Luc, other than that a solid list. When looking at the first 15 all seem like improvements over RJ in the cats we need the most, even if they aren't as talented. I have to wonder how good Leonard can be/is and why they seem to be pressing so hard for a SF.

My guess is they sign Prince, AK or Caron. I'd be thrilled with one of the first two and happy with Caron. There are other players I would be happy with (Dun & Luc or Hill) but those 3 I mentioned are the best available IMO.

[cheguevara]

(throws up)

[DPG21920]

Also, I guess kudos to the Spurs for making basketball decisions over financial ones (at least it appears that way for now). Spurs have had some rough luck lately so let's hope they can get something going in FA/Trade that works out.

[Texas_Ranger]

I'd rather have Nachbar than half of those guys..

[ace3g]

WojYahooNBA Adrian Wojnarowski
Tayshaun Prince will sign a four year, $27 million dollar deal to stay with Detroit, league sources tell Y! Sports.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-wojnarowski_tayshaun_prince_pistons_120811

[Darkwaters]

Where does Bostjan Nachbar work into this? #32?

[lefty]

WojYahooNBA Adrian Wojnarowski
Tayshaun Prince will sign a four year, $27 million dollar deal to stay with Detroit, league sources tell Y! Sports.
:depressed

[ChumpDumper]

23. Derrick Brown

1 year, minimum

Derrick Brown is ultra athletic, and at 6-foot-8, he looks like an imposing small forward. Unfortunately for him, he hasn't shown enough perimeter skill to be anything more than a small, skinny power forward. He can't shoot and can't dribble. The hope with signing Brown would be to send him to Austin for a year and try to mold him into a small forward … but it's unlikely he'll amount to anything. The Spurs already have a guy like this playing in Austin. I wouldn't be surprised to see Lance Thomas in training camp for a week.

[MannyIsGod]

Nevermind I'm way late.

[timvp]

I'd rather have Nachbar than half of those guys..

Forgot about Nachbar. I'll add him in.

[DPG21920]

Prince got a nice contract but I'm surprised he wants to play on a loser team.

[DPG21920]

The Spurs already have a guy like this playing in Austin. I wouldn't be surprised to see Lance Thomas in training camp for a week.

He will be with the Hornets.

[timvp]

I was going to drop out the players who have already "agreed" to deals.

But then I remembered about Lamond Murray.

[ChumpDumper]

He will be with the Hornets.Thanks, just found the list. That's a surprise. We'll miss him, but I don't think he'll be gone long. No perimeter skills at all yet.

[stephen jackson]

kawhi is better than most of em....
why even sign anyone if they just gunna be worse than him..
i only want butler or kawhi to start

[Bruno]

Nice list.

No Gelabale?

[DAF86]

I like Battier and Dunleavy from that list.

[DAF86]

Does somebody know what's the deal with Nocioni? Will he get cut?

[tdunk21]

whats the situation with luc richard? is there a chance of us getting him?

[cheguevara]

kawhi is better than most of em....
why even sign anyone if they just gunna be worse than him..
i only want butler or kawhi to start

bingo. get a bigman

[The Great Fantastic]

Nice list.

No Gelabale?
Good call....here is a link to a summary of TP's radio show...http://www.basket-ball.com/blog/tp-week-4-ar8542.html


"Il a envie que Mickaël Gelabale le rejoigne aux Spurs, en refaisant des essais. "

I don't know if this is an exact quote from Parker but it sounds like Gelabale has Tony Parker's approval! That would be a nice addition. I don't know exactly what it says beyond that. Google translator doesn't nail it all the time.

[TimmehC]

I was going to mention that Gelablae is under contract, but forgot that Tony would be able to release him to the Spurs. That would actually work pretty well.

[timvp]

Nice list.

No Gelabale?

What's his contract/health status? I heard TP talking about him in French but I think he was just talking about getting him on some his show.

Then again I don't know French :stirpot:

[5in10]

I forgot about Jerebko. Hes at the top of my list. Is he a restrcited free agent?

[timvp]

Does somebody know what's the deal with Nocioni? Will he get cut?If he does, he'd make the Top 25. Though closer to the bottom because I'm not sure he moves well enough anymore to defend small forwards. Although it's good that he finally stopped chucking last season. He had that bad habit ever since leaving the Bulls.


whats the situation with luc richard? is there a chance of us getting him?
I haven't heard of any team making a run for him yet. He's restricted and a Scott Skiles favorite so he'd be difficult to pry away.


Good call....here is a link to a summary of TP's radio show...http://www.basket-ball.com/blog/tp-week-4-ar8542.html


"Il a envie que Mickaël Gelabale le rejoigne aux Spurs, en refaisant des essais. "



Gelabale has Tony Parker's approval! That would be a nice addition. I don't know exactly what it says beyond that. Google translator doesn't nail it all the time.
Damn, typed too slow.

[baseline bum]

I was going to drop out the players who have already "agreed" to deals.

But then I remembered about Lamond Murray.

:lol Great memories. Murray pulls a Splitter, the Clippers then match Nesby, and the Spurs roll with Chucky Brown and Jerome Kersey.

[Bruno]

What's his contract/health status? I heard TP talking about him in French but I think he was just talking about getting him on some his show.

Then again I don't know French :stirpot:

Gelabale is a free agent. He wants to come back in the NBA provided he gets a guaranteed contract. He had a big ankle sprain at the Eurobasket but he is now healthy.

He was on TP radio show this Monday where he said that he would like to play for Spurs. Parker said that he would be a welcomed addition because Spurs need help at the SF spot and that he will try to convince Pop and RC to sign him.

[DesignatedT]

I like Reggie Williams if Hil and Butler fall out.

[DPG21920]

Tomorrow is going to change the world.

[MaNu4Tres]

Gelabale is a free agent. He wants to come back in the NBA provided he gets a guaranteed contract. He had a big ankle sprain at the Eurobasket but he is now healthy.

He was on TP radio show this Monday where he said that he would like to play for Spurs. Parker said that he would be a welcomed addition because Spurs need help at the SF spot and that he will try to convince Pop and RC to sign him.

Gelabale has more ability than Butler and Green IMO.

[DMC]

I'll take a decent player with a high IQ over a good player with a decent IQ.

Late game decision making kills a lot of "good" teams, and it's been the Spurs' advantage for years (Ginobili foul notwithstanding).

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I forgot about Jerebko. Hes at the top of my list. Is he a restrcited free agent?

Just resigned in Detroit.

[DesignatedT]

If our main options don't work out I could totally see us signing Peja and stuffing him in the corner.

[pad300]

I'd love to see AK47. I have always been a fan of his skill-set. And his positional versatility would give us options if either we see a breakout from assorted young 3's (Leonard,Anderson) or a fail from assorted 4's (Bonner,Blair).

I don't see it happening though.

[ElNono]

I much rather stick with 1 year, or at worst, 3 year deals. With that in mind, and discounting Tay and Battier which seem to have made up their minds, I would take Grant Hill (unlikely) or Mike Dunleavy, Jr, in that order. Wouldn't take on any other, tbh.

[tdunk21]

@varner48MoH
Timothy Varner
.@jmcdonald_saen Why do you think Michael Finley is practicing with the team?

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Not sure I get the idea here - we amnesty RJ (yippee!) so we can sign another old SF to a 4 year contract? If we wanted an average old SF, why not just keep RJ (bluuuurgh!) for a year to give Leonard some time on the court?

Um, why are we targetting SFs? Aren't we crying out for frontcourt help, and shouldn't that be where we're targeting the MLE? Isn't it time to throw SF to the youth (Anderson, Leonard, Green) and see what happens?

I'm obviously missing something.

[Mugen]

with Caron going to the clippers, i say you throw 4/20mil at Luc richard and see if the Bucks match.

[ajballer4]

with Caron going to the clippers, i say you throw 4/20mil at Luc richard and see if the Bucks match.

This. Works best in the system.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Totally forgot about Luc Richard. Would take him easily, especially on that type of deal.

[Trill Clinton]

Anthony Parker is the only one on the list I can see in a Spurs uniform.

[objective]

Josh Howard has been so terrible that if the Spurs give more than say, 2/4, they're doing it wrong.

[stephen jackson]

ok wit butler gone...
just start kawhi
fuck fuck fuck

[MaNu4Tres]

Hill > Dunleavy > Howard

[stephen jackson]

why do yall like dunleavy wtf is goin on here
dude is a sf matt bonner....

[eric365]

Gelabale signed withe Spirou Basket in August. It's not even a joke. Here is the logo of that team :
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/81/Spirou-basket.png
His contract was indefinitely suspended because of his ankle injury at the eurobasket

[lmbebo]

butler and dunleavy gone

[Buddy Holly]

Finley quote

Because he lives in San Antonio.

[ace3g]

SpearsNBAYahoo Marc J. Spears
Wiz free agent SF Josh Howard is attracted to signing with team DEN FA C Nene signs with, source tells Y! SA, Chi, Den, NO, Utah, NJ in mix

If we got Nene, I'd be happy with Howard, but don't see how that is possible

[tdunk21]

@SpearsNBAYahoo
Marc J. Spears
Wiz free agent SF Josh Howard is attracted to signing with team DEN FA C Nene signs with, source tells Y! SA, Chi, Den, NO, Utah, NJ in mix

[MaNu4Tres]

Howard ain't coming here.

Grant Hill or bust really.

[dbestpro]

What about Wilson Chandler? NBA teams are allowed to toss 500k in the kitty to help get him out of his contract in China.

[mathbzh]

Gelabale has more ability than Butler and Green IMO.

As a cheap option, Gelabale has everything I would expect.
He is a long athletic SF who can play defense. He can shoot. He is cold blooded and does great under pressure.

[Buddy Holly]

SpearsNBAYahoo Marc J. Spears
Wiz free agent SF Josh Howard is attracted to signing with team DEN FA C Nene signs with, source tells Y! SA, Chi, Den, NO, Utah, NJ in mix

If we got Nene, I'd be happy with Howard, but don't see how that is possible

S&T for Nene, Howard gets half or all (10 mil two years) of the MLE.

[ElNono]

What about Wilson Chandler? NBA teams are allowed to toss 500k in the kitty to help get him out of his contract in China.

He doesn't have an opt out clause. Thus, he can't sign with an NBA team until the Chinese league is over (around March, IIRC).

[benefactor]

Wouldn't Chandler still be an RFA if a team payed the buyout?

[benefactor]

Wouldn't Chandler still be an RFA if a team payed the buyout?

[DPG21920]

That tweet doesn't make sense. I think it's out of order. Sounds like Nene has signed w Denver and jho open to the teams listed.

[Buddy Holly]

That tweet doesn't make sense. I think it's out of order. Sounds like Nene has signed w Denver and jho open to the teams listed.

The tweet is hard to read but makes sense. Howard is attracted to signing with which ever team Nene signs with. Then it lists the teams still in play for Nene.

[benefactor]

Since I'm bored...

If teams truly can buy the players out (http://denver.sbnation.com/denver-nuggets/2011/12/8/2620052/nba-free-agents-2011-rumors-china-jr-smith) of their China contract then how about this...Spurs agree to pay the buyout for Wilson Chandler, then they do a sign and trade with Denver for Blair/Dice and a first round pick. The Spurs suddenly have one of the most athletic SF rotations in the league.

Problem solved. :)

[ElNono]

nene, wants 50mil how would we get that? If we could come up with that i would rather have jordan who we should have drafted over hill as i stated years ago.

s&t?

[Buddy Holly]

Nene, wants 50mil how would we get that?

S&T of Bonner, Blair, Dice.

[DesignatedT]

S&T of Bonner, Blair, Dice.

lol. Denver would be all over that offer.

[Mugen]

Pop's running out of shitty vet SFs to sign and play ahead of Kawahi.

[dbestpro]

Since I'm bored...

If teams truly can buy the players out (http://denver.sbnation.com/denver-nuggets/2011/12/8/2620052/nba-free-agents-2011-rumors-china-jr-smith) of their China contract then how about this...Spurs agree to pay the buyout for Wilson Chandler, then they do a sign and trade with Denver for Blair/Dice and a first round pick. The Spurs suddenly have one of the most athletic SF rotations in the league.

Problem solved. :)

Better than anything else out there. Now if you can find a way to add Bonner to the deal.

[Buddy Holly]

lol. Denver would be all over that offer.

Yeah, because they're loaded with talent to contend for a playoff spot. :lol

[benefactor]

Better than anything else out there. Now if you can find a way to add Bonner to the deal.
Bonner's not going anywhere unless he's added in on a deal for a big FA.

If the Spurs were to do what I suggested it would be a move for the future anyway. I don't see them as a contender so I'm all about moves that involve some aspect of rebuilding.

[DMC]

Just dump the lot and bring in some D-leaguers.

[Kori Ellis]

Since Bowen and Finley were practicing with Tim, etc., you should add them to the list of bodies. :wakeup

[Buddy Holly]

Since Bowen and Finley were practicing with Tim, etc., you should add them to the list of bodies. :wakeup

I'm not gullible to fall for such jokes.

[TimmehC]

Bowen?

[monkeypunk]

Since Bowen and Finley were practicing with Tim, etc., you should add them to the list of bodies. :wakeup

:bang

I hope to hell that Bowen is only there to mentor Kawhi...

[swaggerjackson]

Lets go get the restricted small foward from the Bucks who has like 6 last names. Dude has defense!

[scottspurs]

I would take Bowen over some on the list. No thanks to Finley though. I say start Leonard.

[RodNIc91]

Free agent Grant Hill is expected to choose a team this afternoon, according to a league source. The source said Hill will decide between the team where he has played the past four years, the Phoenix Suns, and a newly emerged contender: the San Antonio Spurs.

One thing the source ruled out: “It won’t be New York.”

The Knicks had been a rumored destination for Hill, but now they are now attempting to shed salary, not add it, so they can pursue Tyson Chandler.

The Spurs are apparently willing to give the 39-year-old Hill a second year on his contract, which the Suns would not. If Hill, a small forward, were to sign with the Spurs it would presumably coincide with San Antonio using the amnesty provision to waive small forward Richard Jefferson, who has three years and $30 million remaining on his contract.

Per ESPN

[stephen jackson]

grant is so old tho wtf.....

[yavozerb]

With as many back to backs and less days off between games this season not sure of Hill would be good signing this season...

[jjktkk]

Hill is old, but remember that he missed several years, due to injuries, so he doesn't have alot of wear and tear, usually associated with players his age. Hill would be a great bridge to Leonard.

[yavozerb]

Again, Hill will not play more than 20 minutes per game..good for the min. only

[spursince#99]

I think I may actually kill myself and to sit here and see that you guys are ok with a 38 year old that got exposed by Kobe 2 years ago picking his knees up off of the ground each play. :depressed

[yavozerb]

I think I may actually kill myself and to sit here and see that you guys are ok with a 38 year old that got exposed by Kobe 2 years ago picking his knees up off of the ground each play. :depressed

:lmao, who hasn't got exposed by Kobe...Gonna have to find someone who is not considered the best NBA player to prove your point my man...

[mudyez]

my list:

#1 Grant
#2 Luc
#3 Prince, Battier, Jerebko which are already off the list
.
.
.
#38 Butler, which is also off anyway

[timvp]

I had Hill as one year for $3 million but I'd go up to $6 million over two years if that's what it takes to convince him to sign. As a stopgap, Hill's the best option. As long as you have the Big Three, you might as well try to win now ... and Hill fits right in with that.

[ChumpDumper]

I think I may actually kill myself and to sit here and see that you guys are ok with a 38 year old that got exposed by Kobe 2 years ago picking his knees up off of the ground each play. :depressedThat's fine with me.

Anyone else?

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

That's fine with me.

Anyone else?

http://vivirlatino.com/i/2008/07/raise%20your%20hand.jpg

[NicolasBatum]

Wilson Chandler is not Free agent ?
unfortunately he have to stay in China until march

[dbestpro]

Wilson Chandler is not Free agent ?
unfortunately he have to stay in China until march

He can buy out his contract with 500k from NBA team and payback of salary if ok'd by China team. Problem is he is a RFA.

[ace3g]

johnhollinger John Hollinger
Can't imagine Hornets are doing this deal without sticking somebody with Ariza's contract. Won't have to renounce West if include Ariza.

[NASpurs]

We should start putting X's on the faces of the guys in the original post. They're dropping like flies.

[Sense]

I think I may actually kill myself and to sit here and see that you guys are ok with a 38 year old that got exposed by Kobe 2 years ago picking his knees up off of the ground each play. :depressed

please do so.

[timvp]

After Butler's visit to SA, the Spurs called his agent and offered $10 million over two years.

WTF, why even waste everyone's time? :lol

[MaNu4Tres]

I'm starting to think Spurs may reconsider using the amnesty on R.J this year with how the F.A market is unfolding.

[DAF86]

why do yall like dunleavy wtf is goin on here
dude is a sf matt bonner....

Not really, Dunleavy is a big SF, Bonner is a small PF.

[Mel_13]

I'm starting to think Spurs may reconsider using the amnesty on R.J this year with how the F.A market is unfolding.

Nah, that ship has sailed. Time to have Tony call Gelabale, sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal and concentrate their resources on adding a big.

[DAF86]

I prefer the starting SF to be a good three point shooter than a good defender.

[monkeypunk]

Not really, Dunleavy is a big SF, Bonner is a small PF.

I think Bonner just plays small, he's like 6'10''

[MaNu4Tres]

Nah, that ship has sailed. Time to have Tony call Gelabale, sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal and concentrate their resources on adding a big.

Or they could sit on the MLE and wait for the Wilson Chandler situation to unfold by March :lol. WE STACKED

[Cant_Be_Faded]

ehhhhh i guess its grant hill or jack shit at this point. Never thought it would come to this. Have to hope leonard is a grand slam durable beast.

[Mel_13]

Or they could sit on the MLE and wait for the Wilson Chandler situation to unfold.

I was thinking the same thing. Kmart will be available in March as well.

[benefactor]

Or they could sit on the MLE and wait for the Wilson Chandler situation to unfold by March :lol. WE STACKED

Since I'm bored...

If teams truly can buy the players out (http://denver.sbnation.com/denver-nuggets/2011/12/8/2620052/nba-free-agents-2011-rumors-china-jr-smith) of their China contract then how about this...Spurs agree to pay the buyout for Wilson Chandler, then they do a sign and trade with Denver for Blair/Dice and a first round pick. The Spurs suddenly have one of the most athletic SF rotations in the league.

Problem solved. :)
Still haven't heard if this buyout thing is actually true.

[stephen jackson]

I prefer the starting SF to be a good three point shooter than a good defender.
that has worked out well huh.

[urunobili]

If Jebrenko plays like his rookie season it'd be an incredible addition!

[DAF86]

that has worked out well huh.

Yeah, Bowen, Barry, Jackson, Finley. All champions.

[Bruno]

With all the best FA SFs signing elsewhere, I wonder if Spurs will reconsider waiving RJ. There is still a financial incentive to do it but it makes less and less sense basketball wise.

[kjhip1]

i think they have reached pas that line of no return..i mean Dick would prolly be all butthurt with all the amnesty rumors and SFs coming to town..i think we end up getting J howard..just hope its not for any longer then 2-3 years..

[mudyez]

Yeah, Bowen, Barry, Jackson, Finley. All champions.

and Bowen always has been the starting SF...

...so Bowen was a worse defender, than he is a 3Pt-Shooter??? :downspin:

[DesignatedT]

Highly doubt that. The Spurs interviewed Josh Howard before they publicly amnestied RJ. I think they still would rather have JoHo than RJ.

[timvp]

With all the best FA SFs signing elsewhere, I wonder if Spurs will reconsider waiving RJ. There is still a financial incentive to do it but it makes less and less sense basketball wise.

Doubt it. Saving $6 million is too enticing for Holt to pass up.

But I gotta admit that settling for JHo has me wondering . . .

[timvp]

Parker is one of AK47's best friends in the NBA. Time to go on a recruiting mission, TP.

[DAF86]

and Bowen always has been the starting SF...

...so Bowen was a worse defender, than he is a 3Pt-Shooter??? :downspin:

Didn't say that. What I'm saying is that I think that having a SF that can hit that historic corner three in the Spurs system would help us more than getting a good defensive player that is offensively challenged.

[The Truth #6]

Parker is one of AK47's best friends in the NBA. Time to go on a recruiting mission, TP.

That would be great. He's already made a ridiculous amount of money playing for Sloan, whom I doubt he really loved with all the yelling. Playing for Pop and his love for Euros should look more enticing.

[Bruno]

Doubt it. Saving $6 million is too enticing for Holt to pass up.

But I gotta admit that settling for JHo has me wondering . . .

I guess the $6M figure is if Dice decides to continue. From reading today's E-N article about him, I got the feeling that he would retire.

[dbestpro]

At this point I think the Spurs should use their cash on a big and trade for their starting SF.

[DPG21920]

I guess the $6M figure is if Dice decides to continue. From reading today's E-N article about him, I got the feeling that he would retire.

Would it be less if Dice stays?

[Mel_13]

Would it be less if Dice stays?

Less if they cut Dice.

[DPG21920]

I'm confused. If using amnesty on RJ saves 6M, how can cutting Dice down from 5M to 2M make the savings less?

[TimmehC]

Parker is one of AK47's best friends in the NBA. Time to go on a recruiting mission, TP.

This. I'd trust him at the 4 more than Bonner, tbh.

[timvp]

I guess the $6M figure is if Dice decides to continue.

Depends what you want to compare.

In a scenario where McDyess returns, Jefferson isn't amnestied and the Spurs spend the available MLE that would come out to $84.32M ... which would be $67.87M prorated.

In the same scenario but with an amnestied Jefferson and spending $1.5M more of the MLE, that would come out to $62.95M prorated. And that's before subtracting whatever RJ gets claimed for. If for $3M, that would end up being a total savings of more than $7 million.

So pretty much in any comparable scenario, amnestying RJ saves big bucks.

The only way amnestying RJ does save a lot is if you want to use unbalanced scenarios like RJ and McDyess returning and only minimum players added compared to RJ amnestied, McDyess returning and a MLE player signed. In this scenario, the Spurs would still be saving ~$350K plus whatever RJ gets claimed for.

[Mel_13]

I'm confused. If using amnesty on RJ saves 6M, how can cutting Dice down from 5M to 2M make the savings less?

Let's use some round numbers.

Payroll with Dice and RJ = 74M. Lux tax line is 70M. Using amnesty on RJ saves 4M in tax and 2M in lux tax distribution.

Payroll with Dice cut and RJ= 71.5M. Using amnesty RJ saves 1.5M in lux tax and 2M in lux tax distribution.

[Bruno]

So pretty much in any comparable scenario, amnestying RJ saves big bucks.


If Dice retires, amnestying RJ won't save big bucks unless a team claims a big chunk of his contract.

Spurs will be at $72M with 12 players under guaranteed contract (Parker, Ford, Joseph, Neal, Ginobili, Anderson, Leonard, RJ, Duncan, Blair, Bonner and Splitter). Depending on how much they spend to fill up the roster,
Spurs will pay between $2M and $4M of tax. The luxury tax should be extremely low this year (below $1M).

[DPG21920]

Let's use some round numbers.

Payroll with Dice and RJ = 74M. Lux tax line is 70M. Using amnesty on RJ saves 4M in tax and 2M in lux tax distribution.

Payroll with Dice cut and RJ= 71.5M. Using amnesty RJ saves 1.5M in lux tax and 2M in lux tax distribution.

I guess I was looking at it like this: You amnesty RJ and save ~6M. You let Dice go you save an additional 2M (paying only partially guaranteed portion of contract vs full).

[Mel_13]

I guess I was looking at it like this: You amnesty RJ and save ~6M. You let Dice go you save an additional 2M (paying only partially guaranteed portion of contract vs full).

Well, it does depend on how you look at it.

For me, the Spurs have to pay RJ his 9M this year whether they use the amnesty or not (any amount claimed by another team is unknown). So, what costs savings are realized from taking his salary out of the lux tax calculations? In that view, the higher the rest of the payroll, the greater the savings.

[Obstructed_View]

So I think it's time to amend this to call it "top 23 excuses for not developing Kawhi Leonard until it's too late."

Is that too wordy?

[Obstructed_View]

Well, it does depend on how you look at it.

For me, the Spurs have to pay RJ his 9M this year whether they use the amnesty or not (any amount claimed by another team is unknown). So, what costs savings are realized from taking his salary out of the lux tax calculations? In that view, the higher the rest of the payroll, the greater the savings.

It was short-sigted LT savings that got us into the RJ mess in the first place, it's only fitting that the same thing gets us out of that frying pan and into a completely new fire.

[Russ]

The only way amnestying RJ does save a lot is if you want to use unbalanced scenarios like RJ and McDyess returning and only minimum players added compared to RJ amnestied, McDyess returning and a MLE player signed. In this scenario, the Spurs would still be saving ~$350K plus whatever RJ gets claimed for.

I didn't realize that the purpose of amnesty was to save money.

[timvp]

The Suns are offering Hill a one-year, $5.5 million contract

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/2011/12/09/20111209phoenix-suns-grant-hill-undecided.html


Wow, Spurs must be offering something like $8-10M over two years. That makes Hill not as good of a deal ....... but I'd probably still do it since the alternatives are dwindling.

[Mel_13]

It was short-sigted LT savings that got us into the RJ mess in the first place, it's only fitting that the same thing gets us out of that frying pan and into a completely new fire.

Actually, it was trading for RJ in 2009 that got us into this mess. The LT savings in 2010 was an intermediate step.

[Duncan2177]

Don Harris=BS

[kjhip1]

apprently Kaman is saying he just got traded on his twitter account

[tdunk21]

apprently Kaman is saying he just got traded on his twitter account


@ChrisKaman
Chris Kaman
Wow, so it's true?! RT @blakegriffin: Hey guys I just got traded...

[kjhip1]

apprently Kaman is saying he just got traded on his twitter account

and I'm a moron...read that wrong...all this trade talk got me seeing things incorrectly...

:downspin:

[Brazil]

Just play Leonard for christ sake and go after a freaking big

[Duncan2177]

ok to who? Spurs?

[DesignatedT]

I dont think he said that. I think that was griffin playing around.

[timvp]

Looks like the Spurs are down to AK47, Mbah Alphabet Soup or Reggie Williams ... before they have to get into the Vince Carters of the world.

[kjhip1]

I dont think he said that. I think that was griffin playing around.

yeah it was my mistake...jumped the gun..i dont use twitter and let my wife update our facebook page..not savy on the trending social networks..#newbie

[kjhip1]

AK47 would be a good pickup..but as things are playing out, I see how players use the Spurs to their advantage especially when it comes to money..even if the Spurs dont go far this year, I'll always root for the underdog against LA, MIA, and New York...

[Russ]

Just play Leonard for christ sake and go after a freaking big

Bingo. :toast

[yavozerb]

Looks like the Spurs are down to AK47, Mbah Alphabet Soup or Reggie Williams ... before they have to get into the Vince Carters of the world.

You forget Grandpa Hill..

[timvp]

You forget Grandpa Hill..

Don Harris said not happening. Harris isn't very good at getting scoops but his sources to confirm stories are legit.

[024]

i like kirilenko, but only because all the other options suck.

[TXstbobcat]

I don't think that Josh Howard has turned the spurs down yet. It might come down to Howard

[Duncan2177]

Don Harris said not happening. Harris isn't very good at getting scoops but his sources to confirm stories are legit.

Paul Coro
@paulcoro Paul Coro
RT @azcsports: Grant Hill still undecided on returning to the #Suns. "Big decision" to make. More from @paulcoro: bit.ly/rPmWQX

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/2011/12/09/20111209phoenix-suns-grant-hill-undecided.html

[Jeezla]

What would it take to get Josh Smith from Atlanta?

[ChuckD]

What about Wilson Chandler? NBA teams are allowed to toss 500k in the kitty to help get him out of his contract in China.

He's restricted.

[Mel_13]

What would it take to get Josh Smith from Atlanta?

Tony Parker

[Nathan89]

AK47 has to be out of our price range. Not going to get my hopes up for that. He'll probably return to the Jazz. G.Hill was our best shot.

[Jeezla]

Tony Parker

They don't like Jeff Teague?

[timvp]

Jerebko got 4 years and $16 million. I guessed 4 years and $15 million.

But apparently I was way off on Battier. I thought he would get he full MLE but the Heat apparently got him with the mini MLE of $9 million. For 3 years and $9 million, Battier would have been higher on the list.

[Mel_13]

They don't like Jeff Teague?

They traded for Kirk Heinrich.

[DesignatedT]

Looks like the Spurs are down to AK47, Mbah Alphabet Soup or Reggie Williams ... before they have to get into the Vince Carters of the world.

Josh Howard is out?

[timvp]

Josh Howard is out?

He's still available. I have JHo below Vince Carter though ... that tells you what I think about him.

[Mel_13]

Josh Howard is out?

Let's hope so

[Jeezla]

They traded for Kirk Heinrich.

Dang I wouldn't be opposed to Teague and Josh Smith for TP.

[DesignatedT]

He's still available. I have JHo below Vince Carter though ... that tells you what I think about him.

:lol

[tdunk21]

@JMcDonald_SAEN
Jeff McDonald
Based on what I'm hearing tonight, wouldn't hold my breath on Grant Hill joining the Spurs.

[ernest787]

the next few days will be very interesting to see how this shakes out.

i haven't seen AK47 linked to any teams. anyone know who's making a push for him?

[Mel_13]

the next few days will be very interesting to see how this shakes out.

i haven't seen AK47 linked to any teams. anyone know who's making a push for him?

He's still in Russia and hasn't decided if he will play in the NBA this year:

http://www.sbnation.com/2011-nba-free-agency/2011/12/5/2608597/andrei-kirilenko-nba-free-agents-2011-utah-jazz

[timvp]

He's still in Russia and hasn't decided if he will play in the NBA this year:

http://www.sbnation.com/2011-nba-free-agency/2011/12/5/2608597/andrei-kirilenko-nba-free-agents-2011-utah-jazz

TP should be on the first plane to Russia.

Seriously.

[Sean Cagney]

He's still available. I have JHo below Vince Carter though ... that tells you what I think about him.

Below VC? HELL NO, not even close Timvp. I would rather have anyone than Vince.
the next few days will be very interesting to see how this shakes out.

i haven't seen AK47 linked to any teams. anyone know who's making a push for him?

It won't be interesting, that usually means something good could happen! Spurs won't end up with anyone signing and we all know it, thats the way it is around SA now they are not contenders! Hell even before that they could get key parts around their stars but never a key FA (Bowen was their best signing along with Horry IMO). Now that the Spurs are older it is what it is. I would look to develop Leonard and Anderson etc. now, nobody is going to sign in SA that will be any help.

[Obstructed_View]

Actually, it was trading for RJ in 2009 that got us into this mess. The LT savings in 2010 was an intermediate step.

Disagree. There was no mess when he had a huge expiring contract that would have been there for the Spurs to trade away in the middle of last season, when his value couldn't possibly have been any higher.

[Mel_13]

Disagree. There was no mess when he had a huge expiring contract that would have been there for the Spurs to trade away in the middle of last season, when his value couldn't possibly have been any higher.

Then we disagree.

[ElNono]

@JMcDonald_SAEN
Jeff McDonald
Based on what I'm hearing tonight, wouldn't hold my breath on Grant Hill joining the Spurs.

This is encouraging...

[Buddy Holly]

apprently Kaman is saying he just got traded on his twitter account

That was a Blake Griffin tweet Kaman retweeted. Blake was joking btw.

[Obstructed_View]

Is there actually any option that's going to be an upgrade over RJ for what the value of their contract + what's left over after amnestying RJ? I don't personally give a fuck if it costs the Spurs more money if they can't upgrade at any position, including his own, after getting rid of him.

[Mel_13]

The rare double post sandwich.

[Obstructed_View]

Then we disagree.

:lol If you can explain how his expiring wasn't worth more than Bowen and KT I'd love to see you try.

[Mel_13]

:lol If you can explain how his expiring wasn't worth more than Bowen and KT I'd love to see you try.

It's only worth more if you're willing to pay the price the use it.

[Nathan89]

He's still in Russia and hasn't decided if he will play in the NBA this year:

http://www.sbnation.com/2011-nba-free-agency/2011/12/5/2608597/andrei-kirilenko-nba-free-agents-2011-utah-jazz

AK47 Probably won't sign for mle. He probably wants to return to the Jazz. Not only because that's his team but Utah has a climate more suitable to his liking.

[DPG21920]

:lol I don't know why but your post made me think of you talking about AK like an animal on national geographic.

[Obstructed_View]

It's only worth more if you're willing to pay the price the use it.

So no explanation, then.

[GSH]

Someone was always going to overpay for Butler and Battier. I thought Hill might have been a 50/50 possibility. But now that it looks like he doesn't want to come here, I'll say it again. Don't be surprised if we wind up with Anthony Parker, James Jones, or both.

Parker would be a good mentor for Leonard. Jones is under-rated (cheap), and probably capable of earning more minutes here than he was getting in Miami. It's sad, but probably more realistic than a lot of the names that have been getting tossed around.

[Mel_13]

So no explanation, then.

How much clearer can I be? I don't accept the premise that the Spurs would have been willing to use RJ's expiring contract to take on huge future obligations at the Feb, 2011 trade deadline. By the summer of 2010, they had realized the error of straying so far from their normal business model. Thus, the decision in the summer of 2010 to save 17-20M in that business year by restructuring his deal. An unfortunate choice brought about by the original bad decision which was the acquisition in 2009.

[Summers]

AK47 Probably won't sign for mle. He probably wants to return to the Jazz. Not only because that's his team but Utah has a climate more suitable to his liking.

TP should mention we have air conditioning in most of our buildings and, unlike parts of Russia, an uninterrupted power supply.

[mountainballer]

AK 47 for the MLE would be a no-brainer.

but if this players are not listed for being too expensive (Arron Afflalo, Jeff Green, Thaddeus Young, Jason Richardson) how comes AK isn't on that list?
he is still only 30 (same age like JRich), played a good season and a great Euro 2011.
IMO he is much better than (for example) Caron Butler, who got 3Y/24M.

btw. I do like a Gelabale signing.

use the MLE money on a PF (West? Landry?) and play the SF between Leonard, Gelabale and Anderson. if this doesn't work, get a SF at deadline, which will come pretty soon anyhow.

[spursince#99]

Reggie Williams anyone? This guy is an absolute STUD. I'd rather have him over anybody right now.

[benefactor]

Reggie Williams anyone? This guy is an absolute STUD. I'd rather have him over anybody right now.
Non defending SF in a SG's body. Pass.

[MaNu4Tres]

Reggie Williams anyone? This guy is an absolute STUD. I'd rather have him over anybody right now.

Rather bring back Jerome Kersey tbh..

[Amuseddaysleeper]

Suns have sweetened their offer to Grant Hill, so that takes care of that.

I wouldn't mind Anthony Parker, I just don't like that he's 35-36 already.

I just want a defensive minded SF. Mbah Moute would be amazing, but MIL will match any offers I'm sure.

And Toronto just grabbed Pietrus.

[redskinfan]

What happened to Travis Outlaw?
I thought he was gonne be let go by the Nets!

[SenorSpur]

Looks like Grant Hill is holding up the process. I don't understand what's taking him so long to decide. Either he wants the second year and an opportunity to win with the Spurs or he wants to stay in PHX on a 1-year deal and lose games. Just make a decision already!

[MaNu4Tres]

Suns have sweetened their offer to Grant Hill, so that takes care of that.

I wouldn't mind Anthony Parker, I just don't like that he's 35-36 already.


You want Anthony Parker's corpse, so he can prevent minutes for the development of Anderson/Leonard?

:vomit:

If Spurs lose out on Howard and Hill, Spurs are best off throwing Leonard and Anderson into the fire with Green/Butler being the insurance.

Use the MLE on Landry and pray we get every bounce come April so we have a shot at the 2nd round.

[SenorSpur]

You want Anthony Parker's corpse, so he can prevent minutes for the development of Anderson/Leonard?

:vomit:

If Spurs lose out on Howard and Hill, Spurs are best off throwing Leonard and Anderson into the fire with Green/Butler being the insurance.

Use the MLE on Landry and pray we get every bounce come April so we have a shot at the 2nd round.

Nice plan. I like it. The Spurs can easily piece meal the SF position together with the resources that they have now. In fact, if they wanted some more offensive firepower, they could try adding Reggie Williams cheaply.

I like the plan because Landry would help shore up the PF position because it's clearly a weak link on this team.

[DesignatedT]

Non defending SF in a SG's body. Pass.

Reggie Williams is 6'6 not 6'4 like people keep saying. Although that is still a little undersized.

[yavozerb]

Looks like Grant Hill is holding up the process. I don't understand what's taking him so long to decide. Either he wants the second year and an opportunity to win with the Spurs or he wants to stay in PHX on a 1-year deal and lose games. Just make a decision already!

According to Hoopshype Phx has upped there offer to entice Hill to comeback..That may be the holdup

[benefactor]

Reggie Williams is 6'6 not 6'4 like people keep saying. Although that is still a little undersized.

Ht w/shoes - 6'4
Ht w/o shoes - 6'3.75


http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Reggie-Williams-1232/links/

[DesignatedT]

Well if that's accurate than yes, no way he could start at the 3. He's a decent scorer off the bench but we have enough of those.

[yavozerb]

For Don Nelson's system Williams probably played a little PF even...

[MaNu4Tres]

they could try adding Reggie Williams cheaply.

I like the plan because Landry would help shore up the PF position because it's clearly a weak link on this team.

They don't need more firepower offensively (from the perimeter). They need more defense on the perimeter, which Leonard and Anderson bring much more than Reggie "Money-Mase 2.0" Williams. Spurs should leave it on Josh Howard and if he goes elsewhere, stick to the young guns.

Another avenue they should explore is the path to pry Varejao from Cleveland (which has been brought up 20390202 times; McDyess/Blair/Butler works).

[SenorSpur]

The point is I believe the Spurs should move on from the SF discussion and try to obtain another big (Landry, McRoberts, Hawes, or whoever). It's the start of training camp and the frontline is still in flux.

[DesignatedT]

Wasn't there a rumor about Nocioni being amnestied? What do you think about that option if he is?

[Brazil]

Looks like Grant Hill is holding up the process. I don't understand what's taking him so long to decide. Either he wants the second year and an opportunity to win with the Spurs or he wants to stay in PHX on a 1-year deal and lose games. Just make a decision already!

The Spurs have surely a better chance to win than the suns but it's not like we are contenders even with him, I'm not even sure we are pretenders tbh.

[cantthinkofanything]

The point is I believe the Spurs should move on from the SF discussion and try to obtain another big (Landry, McRoberts, Hawes, or whoever). It's the start of training camp and the frontline is still in flux.

Unfortunatley, I don't think it is in flux in Pop's mind.
Duncan, Splitter, Blair, Bonner, and McDyess. Good enough for the best record in the West last season.

[Brazil]

Best outcome is IMO:

- Spurs find nobody for SF spot
- They don't reconsider RJ amnesty and let him go
- Pop is obliged to trust Leonard
- FO go after a big


- and Bonner retires because he is tired and wants to go back in Canada

[WeNeedLength]

I've been reading this NBA craziness for two days now and last night I had a dream I was reading spurstalk and found a thread saying we traded Duncan and his huge contract with Blair for Kaman I believe. LOL, can't wait for Spurs to actually start playing games already.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Best outcome is IMO:

- Spurs find nobody for SF spot
- They don't reconsider RJ amnesty and let him go
- Pop is obliged to trust Leonard
- FO go after a big


- and Bonner retires because he is tired and wants to go back in Canada


:lol

[Scrub]

"Andrei Kirilenko, 4 years/21.4 million" :lmao

Dude is getting paid 4 million euros per year after tax in CSKA which equates to smth like 11-12 mil $ per in the NBA. Dream the fuck on :lol

[TXstbobcat]

Have to love free agency for the spurs this year. It's kind of like Christmas morning and everyone gets toys but us.

[Texas_Ranger]

Have to love free agency for the spurs this year. It's kind of like Christmas morning and everyone gets toys but us.

it's always like that.:bang

[elemento]

So Battier is gone, Butler is gone, Prince is gone and AK is impossible. Howard wants to play with Nene, so no chance for us.

My friends. We're gonna have to welcome Dick back ! :lmao

[Obstructed_View]

They don't need more firepower offensively (from the perimeter). They need more defense on the perimeter

Agree with this. When the Spurs were playing defense and winning, nobody was complaining. What happened to make so many of us think that scoring a basket is worth more than preventing the other guy from scoring a basket?

[TDMVPDPOY]

if we aint gettin a big

acquiring all these wing players will be another waste of a season

[DesignatedT]

We should offer Mbah Moute now. See if Milwaukee matches

[Buddy Holly]

"Andrei Kirilenko, 4 years/21.4 million" :lmao

Dude is getting paid 4 million euros per year after tax in CSKA which equates to smth like 11-12 mil $ per in the NBA. Dream the fuck on :lol

Greece!

[Obstructed_View]

We should offer Mbah Moute now. See if Milwaukee matches

With your money only tied up for three days, this seems like kind of a no-brainer. Wonder if the Spurs are gonna overthink it and wait until there's three days to go.

[timvp]

Yeah, if you are going to offer a contract to a restricted free agent, today is the day to do it. The league is partially paralyzed because of Stern's trade veto so deciding to match or not would be difficult to do in three days.

[SenorSpur]

We should offer Mbah Moute now. See if Milwaukee matches

That would be great. I also agree that the Spurs have enough offensive firepower However, I fear that Pop doesn't want a defensive-minded SF, who isn't a threat on offense. Just like during Bowen's tenure, they have enough offense to mitigate it. I believe they do now also. Besides Mbah Moute can always develop some offense.

[Obstructed_View]

Completely agree, SS. I don't know what's wrong with letting a guy lower the field goal percentage of the guy he's guarding, ask him get his points wherever he can get them and not have to run any plays for him. Do the Spurs really need a team with 15 guys with 20 foot range? How has that worked out so far?

[smrattler]

I think the days of a "defensive stopper" SF with no offense are over. Ever since Timmy became human and unable to dominate inside offensively, consistently.

We can't afford a defense-only player out there, as a starter anyway.

[SenorSpur]

Completely agree, SS. I don't know what's wrong with letting a guy lower the field goal percentage of the guy he's guarding, ask him get his points wherever he can get them and not have to run any plays for him. Do the Spurs really need a team with 15 guys with 20 foot range? How has that worked out so far?

Yeah. After all, the Spurs had as much offensive firepower last year, as they've had in years. Yet Memphis wiped the floor with them in the playoffs. At some point, you have to have the ability to get stops, control rebounds and impose your will onto an opponent - not the other way around.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Sixers re-signing Young should make Iguodala available. Just sayin.

[DesignatedT]

While I agree, the offense would need to change somewhat. Bowen never shot below 37% and was as high at 44% from 3 in a season and was a big part of the offense every year. He also shot 200-300 threes in a season.

While Mbah Moute doesn't have much of a sample size I don't see his 3 pt % even going above .200. When your SF gets wide open look after wide open look in the corner you're going to have to hit at some point. Unless they change the face of the offense which it might be time to do.

His defense would be fantastic to have though.

[Obstructed_View]

I think the days of a "defensive stopper" SF with no offense are over. Ever since Timmy became human and unable to dominate inside offensively, consistently.

We can't afford a defense-only player out there, as a starter anyway.

*deep breath*

I'm saying this as nicely as I can: You're telling me you wouldn't take 2004 Bruce Bowen on this team right now?

[SenorSpur]

While I agree, the offense would need to change somewhat. Bowen never shot below 37% and was as high at 44% from 3 in a season and was a big part of the offense every year. He also shot 200-300 threes in a season.

While Mbah Moute doesn't have much of a sample size I don't see his 3 pt % even going above .200. When your SF gets wide open look after wide open look in the corner you're going to have to hit at some point. Unless they change the face of the offense which it might be time to do.

His defense would be fantastic to have though.

I liked this kid coming out of UCLA a few years ago. He would be a good get for the Spurs. He's so light years ahead defensively of anyone else on the roster, Pop shouldn't worry about his offensive game. He can always develop a corner 3.

[DesignatedT]

I agree that the Spurs should offer, I would just advise some to calm down on the Bruce Bowen comparisons.

Although I think Mbah Moute and Kawhi are pretty similar players in a lot of areas.

[Mugen]

then again, the last time the Spurs acquired a SF from the Bucks, it ended up biting them in the balls.

just sayin.

[Obstructed_View]

I agree that the Spurs should offer, I would just advise some to calm down on the Bruce Bowen comparisons.

Yeah, I feel a little guilty about taking his name in vain. I was referring more to the statement that the days of having a defensive stopper are over. If the Spurs could find a BB that can't shoot, he'd still be valuable. Bowen was that good.

[Brazil]

Yeah, I feel a little guilty about taking his name in vain. I was referring more to the statement that the days of having a defensive stopper are over. If the Spurs could find a BB that can't shoot, he'd still be valuable. Bowen was that good.

well Bowen could shoot the corner 3 too... I agree for the rest if we could find a defensive minded SF who can shoot occasional 3s that would be great but it won't happen so let's hope RJ is gone, Pop gives the starting spot to Leonard and FO goes after a big and we will all live with the result

[SenorSpur]

Yeah, I feel a little guilty about taking his name in vain. I was referring more to the statement that the days of having a defensive stopper are over. If the Spurs could find a BB that can't shoot, he'd still be valuable. Bowen was that good.

Imagine how good the Spurs would be defensively with a pair of long SFs, in both Mbah a Moute and Leonard?

[MaNu4Tres]

Imagine how good the Spurs would be defensively with a pair of long SFs, in both Mbah a Moute and Leonard?

Moute has the versatility to play the 4 as well, kind of similar mold that Derrick McKey was (type of player Pop was looking for throughout the 00's). But Moute comes without the outside shot of McKey obv.

[jjktkk]

That would be great. I also agree that the Spurs have enough offensive firepower However, I fear that Pop doesn't want a defensive-minded SF, who isn't a threat on offense. Just like during Bowen's tenure, they have enough offense to mitigate it. I believe they do now also. Besides Mbah Moute can always develop some offense.

Not true, they did draft a defensive minded sf. Question, which is more important a defensive sf, or a legit starting big?

[Amuseddaysleeper]

tribjazz Brian T. Smith

UFA Andrei Kirilenko isn't close to signing with any #NBA teams right now and no franchise has taken lead during negotiations.

[smrattler]

*deep breath*

I'm saying this as nicely as I can: You're telling me you wouldn't take 2004 Bruce Bowen on this team right now?

I don't think there is a defender available out there as good as 2004 Bowen.

But my point is that Timmy was capable of taking over on the low block back then. Teams HAD to double him. A Bowen could sit on the corner and wait till he got his open shots.

Today, Timmy is basically our center, can't take over consistently, and our PF will likely be an even older McDyess who couldn't score much last year either...

So, nobody down low demands a double team anymore. A Bowen type would not even get his open 3-4 corner shots a game, and certainly not when the game is on the line. Teams will man up, sit on the shooters, and take their chances with Timmy's bad knees not able to carry the Spurs for an entire game and much less series.

That's just my view on it. I agree we need defense, and it has to be our calling card. But we need the whole team to play good team defense and have balance on offense with an aging Duncan.

[SenorSpur]

Not true, they did draft a defensive minded sf. Question, which is more important a defensive sf, or a legit starting big?

Now THAT is the question, Grasshopper.

[Amuseddaysleeper]

I would MUCH rather get a legit starting big than a defensive SF. You can't teach size, and I'd love to give Leonard as much as playing time as possible.

[GSH]

You want Anthony Parker's corpse, so he can prevent minutes for the development of Anderson/Leonard?

:vomit:

If Spurs lose out on Howard and Hill, Spurs are best off throwing Leonard and Anderson into the fire with Green/Butler being the insurance.

Use the MLE on Landry and pray we get every bounce come April so we have a shot at the 2nd round.


I was a big fan of Anthony Parker coming here - four years ago. I think he's too old now, even though he really did do a pretty solid job on defense last season. But he's a really solid player, and a good locker room guy. And he's cheap. Given our history, and current cap situation, doesn't that sound like a potential pick-up? That's all I'm saying.

A lot of the people we want, we can't afford. If we're going to get someone unexciting, it's more likely that it will be a character guy, at a discount price, on a short contract.

[smrattler]

I'd rather have a legit starting big. Someone that demands an ocassional a double team.

And sure, throw Leonard out there, let's find out if we wasted a pick or if he'll be special someday.

[DesignatedT]

What bigs are people thinking? I just haven't heard many names that are worth MLE money.

[smrattler]

Yup. None out there I see either.

I didn't say there was a savior out there, just what I would love to have.

This shortened season may be a re-building year.

[Mel_13]

What bigs are people thinking? I just haven't heard many names that are worth MLE money.

That's the problem. What might you get for the MLE?

Carl Landry?

Kris Humphries?

In the wake of the Marcus Thornton contract, the full MLE might not be enough and those players probably aren't worth it anyway.

[DesignatedT]

I'd take either one of those tbh. Just because we desperately need help down low.


and wtf is going on with Dice? Shouldn't we know something today?

[ace3g]

Monroe_SA Mike Monroe
Richard Jefferson IS at Spurs practice right now

[Texas_Ranger]

Monroe_SA Mike Monroe
Richard Jefferson IS at Spurs practice right now

:lol

[ace3g]

JMcDonald_SAEN Jeff McDonald
Teams have until Dec. 16 to use amnesty for this season, so Jefferson isn't out of woods. But seems he's the starting SF on Day 1 of camp.

[Mel_13]

Monroe_SA Mike Monroe
Richard Jefferson IS at Spurs practice right now

:depressed

[timtonymanu]

In other words, the Spurs failed at finding a replacement SF so they kept RJ.

[Brazil]

Monroe_SA Mike Monroe
Richard Jefferson IS at Spurs practice right now

:bang

[MaNu4Tres]

In other words, the Spurs failed at finding a replacement SF so they kept RJ.

We will know for sure within a week. Patience....

[Mel_13]

The Suns waived Vince Carter today. They owe him the guaranteed $4M of his contract's $18M salary.

http://twitter.com/paulcoro

[SenorSpur]

The Suns waived Vince Carter today. They owe him the guaranteed $4M of his contract's $18M salary.

http://twitter.com/paulcoro

God no! If that's the only option available, I'd rather keep RJ. He may be heartless and gutless, but his only 31. Vince is old, heartless and gutless. RJ is simply the lesser of two evils - for now anyway.

[MaNu4Tres]

The Suns waived Vince Carter today. They owe him the guaranteed $4M of his contract's $18M salary.

http://twitter.com/paulcoro

I rather bring back David Wood tbh...

[underdawg]

That's the problem. What might you get for the MLE?

Carl Landry?

Kris Humphries?

In the wake of the Marcus Thornton contract, the full MLE might not be enough and those players probably aren't worth it anyway.

Isn't Landry or Humphries an upgrade over Blair and Bonner? It's hard to believe that there are absolutely no bigs available (in Spurs price range) that are an immediate improvement over what the Spurs have now in Bonner and Blair.

I also don't understand how getting a good deal on a mediocre SF will be better than overspending (slightly that is) on a big.

[Mel_13]

Isn't Landry or Humphries an upgrade over Blair and Bonner? It's hard to believe that there are absolutely no bigs available (in Spurs price range) that are an immediate improvement over what the Spurs have now in Bonner and Blair.

I also don't understand how getting a good deal on a mediocre SF will be better than overspending (slightly that is) on a big.

It will be interesting to see what sort of deal mediocre players like these get.

[SenorSpur]

It will be interesting to see what sort of deal mediocre players like these get.

If today's Marcus Thornton contract is any indication, these guys will be overpaid too. The owners never seem to learn.

[Mel_13]

If today's Marcus Thornton contract is any indication, these guys will be overpaid too. The owners never seem to learn.

:lol

Cry poverty and then spend like drunken sailors.

[underdawg]

If today's Marcus Thornton contract is any indication, these guys will be overpaid too. The owners never seem to learn.

possible, but mediocre big > mediocre SF

I'll admit I know little about Shawne Williams other than he was close to Bonner for a while last year in 3pt %. What's his market value?

[timvp]

Rip Hamilton is getting released. Someone convince me he can be shoehorned into the starting small forward spot.

[Duncan2177]

Please get Rip