Grades: Spurs vs. Jazz - Dec. 31

[timvp]

Tim Duncan C+
Defensively, Tim Duncan was decent throughout. He gave good effort on the boards and clogged the middle adequately well. Offensively, he really struggled in the first half -- missing six of his seven shots. In the final two quarters, he look a lot better on O and was 3-for-6 from the field. Unfortunately, Duncan continues to look slow and not very mobile. Let's hope he'll loosen up as the season unfolds.

Manu Ginobili A
In the first two home games, Manu Ginobili dominated due to energy and willpower. This time, he skinned the cat using technical precision. Ginobili hit 9-of-10 shots from the field, including 5-of-6 from deep. He also had a number of good passes and crafty drives to the lane. Defensively, he wasn't very active but also didn't get burned. All in all, it was another very good game out of the Argentine.

Tony Parker B
On defense, Tony Parker was solid. He kept Devin Harris in check and was actively helping his teammates. On the other end of the court, Harris and Earl Watson -- two of the best Parker-defenders ever -- made life difficult on San Antonio's point guard. Parker racked up eight assists but really had to force the action to score points. He ended up with 14 points, hitting 3-of-10 from the field and all eight of his freebies.

DeJuan Blair A-
Another game, another quality outing from DeJuan Blair. Offensively, he's moving with purpose and using his wide body to his advantage. He continues to show good touch around the rim and a court awareness that allows him to find open teammates. As good as Blair was offensively, I thought he was equally as good defensively. He was really active with his hands and feet against the numerous talented bigs on Utah's roster. One negative to Blair's game has been a lack of defensive rebounds from the usually board hungry post player.

Richard Jefferson B-
Richard Jefferson didn't do much good or bad. He hit a few shots early but his defensive intensity was inconsistent and his overall energy was poor. Jefferson seems content to be a spotup shooter these days. When he's hitting, he's useful. When he's not, he makes virtually no impact.

James Anderson C+
It wasn't a pretty game for James Anderson. On offense, he was oftentimes out of control. He didn't seem to know what he wanted to do -- both with the ball and with his cuts off the ball. On defense, he got tortured in the low post, especially against Josh Howard. For Anderson to keep a spot in the rotation, he's going to have to play a steadier and tougher brand of basketball.

Tiago Splitter B+
Defensively, Tiago Splitter was really good at protecting the rim. He's never been a shotblocker at any level in his basketball career, however he's showing that ability so far this year. His post defense against the Jazz wasn't very good, however. On offense, Splitter was really, really aggressive -- with mostly positive results. The Spurs need him to get comfortable offensively for Splitter to reach his potential and he appears to be making strides in that direction.

TJ Ford C-
At first, TJ Ford was playing pretty well. He was making plays offensively and hustling on defense. However, once the Jazz realized Ford is showing no ability to actually score the basketball, the wheels fell off. They doubled off of him and Ford couldn't make Utah pay. He then compounded the problem by dribbling too much and playing sloppy defense. By the end of the game, Pop couldn't pull him fast enough.

Kawhi Leonard B-
In the first half, Kawhi Leonard looked good. His movement on offense continues to be a plus. He was also a big factor on the boards and played fine defense. In the second half, Leonard experience a lot of growing pains. He got caught being too aggressive defensively a number of times and found himself out of position. He also made a handful of tactical mistakes on the defensive end, especially in transition. That said, there's no way the Leonard is going to learn on the fly without these types of struggles.

Matt Bonner B
Hey, compared to the first three games, Matt Bonner was pretty damn good. He actually pulled down three rebounds and hit his only shot. His defense was still sub par but his passing on the offensive end helped the Spurs get off to a good offensive start. Watching him closely, he appears to be favoring one of his legs. He had a knee wrap in the first half, which may be a hint that he's not totally healthy right now.

Danny Green A-
Danny Green played nine minutes in the second half and I thought he did about as well as possible. His perimeter defense was impressive and he played with tenacity. Green was strong on the glass and didn't hesitate when he got opportunities to attack offensively. Tonight he definitely helped his case for more minutes.

Pop B+
I continue to like Pop's rotation so far this season. Getting Leonard in early to play with the starters is working out well. Blair as a starter has worked out great and Pop isn't limiting Splitter's minutes even if the matchups are unfavorable. Against the Jazz, I thought Pop overreacted a little bit when he reinserted Parker in the fourth ... but that's the only nitpick I can muster.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Accurate takes, although TJ deserves a D and TP a C+ (interesting comment about TP-stoppers: I knew about Harris, but not Earl!). TJ's got to learn that he is allowed to try and make uncontested layups. He's overly pass-first and that's killing the offense. Gotta show his teeth occasionally.

Love the way Grizz, Splitter and Leonard are playing! Much better than I had expected coming into the season.

Pity that JA has regressed after a solid first game of the season, and that Tim look more like 40 than 35.

Manu is incredible.

[Obstructed_View]

Matt Bonner B
Hey, compared to the first three games, Matt Bonner was pretty damn good. He actually pulled down three rebounds and hit his only shot. His defense was still sub par but his passing on the offensive end helped the Spurs get off to a good offensive start. Watching him closely, he appears to be favoring one of his legs. He had a knee wrap in the first half, which may be a hint that he's not totally healthy right now.

I thought I noticed him limping a bit in the Houston game. I'd go back and check but I deleted that abortion from my DVR pretty quickly.

[objective]

I'd give TJ a D, and RJ a C-. Providing that C is just passing or satisfactory. RJ had moments in the 4th that were pretty bad.

[DMC]

I think Blair's drop off in rebounding is due to him not taking risky swipes at the ball which gets him into early foul trouble, though he did do that a couple of times without getting whistled.

[angelbelow]

I think Blair's drop off in rebounding is due to him not taking risky swipes at the ball which gets him into early foul trouble, though he did do that a couple of times without getting whistled.

Could it also be him sacrificing rebounding position for better defensive positioning? Just a guess, as its not something that I noticed or remember.

[Obstructed_View]

I think Blair's drop off in rebounding is due to him not taking risky swipes at the ball which gets him into early foul trouble, though he did do that a couple of times without getting whistled.

There was a drop off?

[DMC]

There was a drop off?
"One negative to Blair's game has been a lack of defensive rebounds from the usually board hungry post player." -Timvp

[ElNono]

You know, I would give Matty a B if he had to guard Al Jefferson. But he didn't even had to do that.

You also forgot to rate Pop. I would give him an A. He pushed the right buttons again, and as long as he keeps ginger in the 10-15 min range, I'll be pleased.

[objective]

TJ Ford has more turnovers than points so far this season, and nearly double the turnovers Parker has in about half the time. If he doesn't turn this around he will become a big problem for the Spurs.

He currently has a disgusting A/T ratio, about 1.4/1 (Parker is better than 4/1). And his TOV% before the Jazz game was an astronomical 42%.

[ElNono]

TJ Ford has more turnovers than points so far this season, and nearly double the turnovers Parker has in about half the time. If he doesn't turn this around he will become a big problem for the Spurs.

He currently has a disgusting A/T ratio, about 1.4/1 (Parker is better than 4/1). And his TOV% before the Jazz game was an astronomical 42%.

I'm sure Neal will have some tryouts at the backup PG. TJ will be waived as soon as Neal is deemed serviceable.

[Obstructed_View]

"One negative to Blair's game has been a lack of defensive rebounds from the usually board hungry post player." -Timvp

On a night when the guy got 23 percent of the team's rebounds and 100 percent of the team's offensive rebounds. Yeah, I guess there had to be some negative just to fill up space. Don't see how 10 rebounds is a drop-off from 12 the previous game. Also wasn't sure how anyone would complain that a guy was getting half or more of his rebounds on the offensive glass.

[objective]

I'm sure Neal will have some tryouts at the backup PG. TJ will be waived as soon as Neal is deemed serviceable.

I pessimistically expect Anderson or Kawhi to be benched instead, with TJ keeping his spot.

[timvp]

You also forgot to rate Pop.

Good point. Hopefully I remember to add that in the morning.


TJ Ford has more turnovers than points so far this season, and nearly double the turnovers Parker has in about half the time. If he doesn't turn this around he will become a big problem for the Spurs.

I actually feel bad for TJ. He's trying really, really hard to fit in and has changed his game a lot in doing so ... but he just looks done athletically. Those spinal injuries have left him about three or four steps slower than his UT and early NBA days. If you watch before and after videos of him, it's pretty shocking to realize he's fallen off so much athletically and he's only 28.

Hopefully TJ can somehow find another gear. Otherwise teams are going to do what the Jazz did tonight: ignore his dribbling, force him to score and then take advantage because he can no longer score even when ignored. Even Jacque Vaughn could score when he was ignored . . .

[TD 21]

The general consensus all along has been that Leonard would eventually lose his spot in the rotation once Neal returns. But right now, there's no justification for playing Anderson ahead of him. Not unless Anderson starts looking like the shooter he's supposed to be. Ford, though he inexplicably no longer appears to be a scoring threat, at least gives them a true point guard, so that they don't have to play Ginobili with the second unit. Anderson can't defend or rebound as well as Leonard and can't shoot or create as well as Neal. He's been the biggest disappointment so far.

[therealtruth]

I wonder how much of the 3-1 start is due to better defense versus outshouting the opponent from 3. Tiago, Kawhi, and to a lesser extent Anderson are providing defense that probably wasn't available last year.

One fear is that the Spurs live and die by the 3. Living and dying by the 3 might get them thru the regular season but it's going to make it much easier for teams to gameplan in the playoffs. It's a little difficult to do because you want to take open 3's but you have to keep in mind those 3's won't be so open in the playoffs.

[timvp]

Also wasn't sure how anyone would complain that a guy was getting half or more of his rebounds on the offensive glass.

Blair's rookie season, he averaged 10.6 defensive rebounds per 48 minutes. Last year it dropped to 9.5. This year, even after tonight, he's sitting at 6.0.

Offensive rebounds are nice but the Spurs are built on cleaning up the defensive glass. Blair becomes much less valuable if he goes from elite defensive rebounder to an average or below average defensive rebounder.

I think it's probably a case of small sample size but it's definitely something to keep an eye on. Usually the first sign of a small power forward losing their athleticism is a drop in defensive rebounding rate. And with Blair's knee situation, no one really knows when that drop will come. We could be witnessing the drop already or he could have a complete career.

[DMC]

On a night when the guy got 23 percent of the team's rebounds and 100 percent of the team's offensive rebounds. Yeah, I guess there had to be some negative just to fill up space. Don't see how 10 rebounds is a drop-off from 12 the previous game. Also wasn't sure how anyone would complain that a guy was getting half or more of his rebounds on the offensive glass.
I was taking Timvp as meaning historically, not just in the past few games.

Maybe he will respond.

edit: nm, he just responded

[DMC]

Blair's rookie season, he averaged 10.6 defensive rebounds per 48 minutes. Last year it dropped to 9.5. This year, even after tonight, he's sitting at 6.0.

Offensive rebounds are nice but the Spurs are built on cleaning up the defensive glass. Blair becomes much less valuable if he goes from elite defensive rebounder to an average or below average defensive rebounder.

I think it's probably a case of small sample size but it's definitely something to keep an eye on. Usually the first sign of a small power forward losing their athleticism is a drop in defensive rebounding rate. And with Blair's knee situation, no one really knows when that drop will come. We could be witnessing the drop already or he could have a complete career.
Or it could be that the majority of the time he's in there now he's not the only good rebounder.

If the Spurs aren't giving up more second looks, that has to be considered.

[therealtruth]

The general consensus all along has been that Leonard would eventually lose his spot in the rotation once Neal returns. But right now, there's no justification for playing Anderson ahead of him. Not unless Anderson starts looking like the shooter he's supposed to be. Ford, though he inexplicably no longer appears to be a scoring threat, at least gives them a true point guard, so that they don't have to play Ginobili with the second unit. Anderson can't defend or rebound as well as Leonard and can't shoot or create as well as Neal. He's been the biggest disappointment so far.

I agree Anderson may be the odd one out. I think to improve the defense the best defenders are going to have to play. Leonard is looking like he can be a defensive stopper for 1-3.

[Obstructed_View]

I wonder how much of the 3-1 start is due to better defense versus outshouting the opponent from 3. Tiago, Kawhi, and to a lesser extent Anderson are providing defense that probably wasn't available last year.

One fear is that the Spurs live and die by the 3. Living and dying by the 3 might get them thru the regular season but it's going to make it much easier for teams to gameplan in the playoffs. It's a little difficult to do because you want to take open 3's but you have to keep in mind those 3's won't be so open in the playoffs.

So far the threes haven't mattered, since none of the games have been close. The Spurs have played good defense in the wins and no defense in the loss.

[siraulo23]

DeJuan Blair A-
Another game, another quality outing from DeJuan Blair. Offensively, he's moving with purpose and using his wide body to his advantage. He continues to show good touch around the rim and a court awareness that allows him to find open teammates. As good as Blair was offensively, I thought he was equally as good defensively. He was really active with his hands and feet against the numerous talented bigs on Utah's roster. One negative to Blair's game has been a lack of defensive rebounds from the usually board hungry post player.



Except for the first regular season game where Blair was in foul trouble, Dejuan has played an exceptional brand of basketball. He plays with poise and controlled tenacity and has shown a couple of go to moves in the post. He also is more patient down low, and is finishing consistently.

With that said, lets see how he performs against the better and more physical post defenders. It will be a great plus if Blair can provide this team consistent points in the paint as Duncan has regressed and is practically a jumpshooter this early in the season



Kawhi Leonard B-
In the first half, Kawhi Leonard looked good. His movement on offense continues to be a plus. He was also a big factor on the boards and played fine defense. In the second half, Leonard experience a lot of growing pains. He got caught being too aggressive defensively a number of times and found himself out of position. He also made a handful of tactical mistakes on the defensive end, especially in transition. That said, there's no way the Leonard is going to learn on the fly without these types of struggles.


Kawhi has been the best perimeter defender every time he's out on the court.

[TD 21]

I agree Anderson may be the odd one out. I think to improve the defense the best defenders are going to have to play. Leonard is looking like he can be a defensive stopper for 1-3.

Exactly. You can't claim your goal is to "get back to being 4th-7th defensively", then drop your best perimeter defender from the rotation, when he's done nothing to warrant that.

As Pop basically alluded to in his post game comments, they're going to be patient with Ford, because he's still learning the system. Also, it would be ideal to have a true point guard on the second unit, so that Ginobili doesn't have to essentially play that role. At some point, that patience will run out obviously. But right now, I'd stick with him and drop Anderson.

[Obstructed_View]

Blair's rookie season, he averaged 10.6 defensive rebounds per 48 minutes. Last year it dropped to 9.5. This year, even after tonight, he's sitting at 6.0.

Offensive rebounds are nice but the Spurs are built on cleaning up the defensive glass. Blair becomes much less valuable if he goes from elite defensive rebounder to an average or below average defensive rebounder.

I think it's probably a case of small sample size but it's definitely something to keep an eye on. Usually the first sign of a small power forward losing their athleticism is a drop in defensive rebounding rate. And with Blair's knee situation, no one really knows when that drop will come. We could be witnessing the drop already or he could have a complete career.

Okay, that makes more sense. I don't know that I agree, but I see what you're saying now, and it's something to keep an eye on. Don't know how to figure out if Blair's drop in stats after going to the bench made all the difference in his rebounding numbers or just part, but it's probably a factor.

The Spurs gave up the fewest offensive rebounds in the league for a couple of years before Blair arrived and they're moving down the charts. I don't know how much pace factors into it. I do recall that those Spurs teams took no chances, never pushed the ball, never challenged passing lanes. They finished near dead last in offensive boards, so nobody was getting second chances on either side of the ball.

This is a really interesting train of thought; I'd love to compare the stats on this, but it's too late and my brain is fried.

[analyzed]

I'm sure Neal will have some tryouts at the backup PG. TJ will be waived as soon as Neal is deemed serviceable.

nah as bad as TJ is , I think you still need a real point guard in the regular season, especially early on and back to backs. I do see Neal playing more minutes at the point as the season progresses towards the Playoffs with Manu helping him out quaterbacking the second unit. The other reason Neal playing the point is important is it allows Anderson to still get minutes. I think its key that Anderson becomes a rotation player in the playoffs, this can only happen if Neal plays PG

[analyzed]

Blair's rookie season, he averaged 10.6 defensive rebounds per 48 minutes. Last year it dropped to 9.5. This year, even after tonight, he's sitting at 6.0.

Offensive rebounds are nice but the Spurs are built on cleaning up the defensive glass. Blair becomes much less valuable if he goes from elite defensive rebounder to an average or below average defensive rebounder.

I think it's probably a case of small sample size but it's definitely something to keep an eye on. Usually the first sign of a small power forward losing their athleticism is a drop in defensive rebounding rate. And with Blair's knee situation, no one really knows when that drop will come. We could be witnessing the drop already or he could have a complete career.

One possible reason Blair's defensive rebounds has gone down in the 1st few games from prior seasons, is more than ever before he has been assigned on the opponents best big man scorer, Randdolf, Griffin, Scola , this results in Blair having to focus on sticking to his man rather, than going for the boards

[ElNono]

Blair's rookie season, he averaged 10.6 defensive rebounds per 48 minutes. Last year it dropped to 9.5. This year, even after tonight, he's sitting at 6.0.

Offensive rebounds are nice but the Spurs are built on cleaning up the defensive glass. Blair becomes much less valuable if he goes from elite defensive rebounder to an average or below average defensive rebounder.

I think it's probably a case of small sample size but it's definitely something to keep an eye on. Usually the first sign of a small power forward losing their athleticism is a drop in defensive rebounding rate. And with Blair's knee situation, no one really knows when that drop will come. We could be witnessing the drop already or he could have a complete career.

Another reason would be that Blair-Bonner combo was extensively used in the past, and we also didn't have a lot of good perimeter rebounders.

This season Kwahi has been really working on the boards, and the combo Blair-Bonner hasn't seen as much time.

[ElNono]

So far the threes haven't mattered, since none of the games have been close. The Spurs have played good defense in the wins and no defense in the loss.

I would disagree on this. As much as the hot shooting opened the game against Utah and LA, it also puts pressure on the other team to keep up.
Conversely, when the Spurs are not shooting well (Rockets) it really puts pressure on the defense to make up for it. And we didn't react all that well to that. All that said, that Houston game was an aberration (I think we shot 30% for the half).

What I haven't seen yet, is a game where the Spurs don't really shoot all that well and manage to win playing D. A grind it out type of game. Those games are a lot closer to what the playoffs will bring, and I thought we reacted really poorly to those games last season. I'm hoping this season is different with Thiago in there.

[ElNono]

nah as bad as TJ is , I think you still need a real point guard in the regular season, especially early on and back to backs. I do see Neal playing more minutes at the point as the season progresses towards the Playoffs with Manu helping him out quaterbacking the second unit. The other reason Neal playing the point is important is it allows Anderson to still get minutes. I think its key that Anderson becomes a rotation player in the playoffs, this can only happen if Neal plays PG

I'm just giving my opinion of what I see, tbh. Pop was a guy that decided to roll with RMJ as backup point in the playoffs and sitting Hill, so I just don't pretend to know what he thinks.

But right now, if Neal shows up, and he needs to take somebody's minutes, it should be TJ's. Anderson hasn't really impressed me that much to be honest, but I can't deny his aggressiveness and he seems like he could be a capable scorer.

[BackHome]

The general consensus all along has been that Leonard would eventually lose his spot in the rotation once Neal returns. But right now, there's no justification for playing Anderson ahead of him. Not unless Anderson starts looking like the shooter he's supposed to be. Ford, though he inexplicably no longer appears to be a scoring threat, at least gives them a true point guard, so that they don't have to play Ginobili with the second unit. Anderson can't defend or rebound as well as Leonard and can't shoot or create as well as Neal. He's been the biggest disappointment so far.

Leonard is a true SF and Neal will not be getting his minutes since Neal will be getting minutes at the PG and SG positions. So look for Neal to steal some minutes from the PG and SG position when we need some offense.

[analyzed]

But right now, if Neal shows up, and he needs to take somebody's minutes, it should be TJ's. Anderson hasn't really impressed me that much to be honest, but I can't deny his aggressiveness and he seems like he could be a capable scorer.

Yup I hope you're right that Neal takes up TJ's PT rather than Anderson which results in hindering James growth to be serviceable for the playoffs. In practical terms however at least for the compressed regular season. I see some nights when one of the three (TJ' Neal or Anderson) get's zero playing time. Especially in back to backs. Some games the guard main back-ups will be TJ and Neal , another night TJ and anderson, and in others Neal and Anderson. With the latter two hopefully being the main back-ups leaving out TJ come playoff time, at least that's what I hope.

[ElNono]

Yup I hope you're right that Neal takes up TJ's PT rather than Anderson which results in hindering James growth to be serviceable for the playoffs. In practical terms however at least for the compressed regular season. I see some nights when one of the three (TJ' Neal or Anderson) get's zero playing time. Especially in back to backs. Some games the guard main back-ups will be TJ and Neal , another night TJ and anderson, and in others Neal and Anderson. With the latter two hopefully being the main back-ups leaving out TJ come playoff time, at least that's what I hope.

I just heard Pop's postgame comments and he seems pretty high on TJ. So we'll just see what happens.

[analyzed]

I'm actually hoping at some point Anderson starts with Manu coming of the bench. Which brings me to the question, do you think at some point Pop will alter his starting line-up ? or is he set with it ?

[mystargtr34]

Another reason would be that Blair-Bonner combo was extensively used in the past, and we also didn't have a lot of good perimeter rebounders.

This season Kwahi has been really working on the boards, and the combo Blair-Bonner hasn't seen as much time.

Usually ill look at the Spurs DRR (defensive rebound rate) before looking at the individual players DRR. If the team as a whole is rebounding well.. then it doesnt matter if one players rebound rate has dropped.. because it just means another Spur is getting those rebounds.. obviously. On the other hand if the Spurs DRR is down a bit as is the case so far.. then you have to look at individual output. Spurs are middle of the pack atm.. but you can probly chalk that down to the Matt Bonner effect for now.

[therealtruth]

I would disagree on this. As much as the hot shooting opened the game against Utah and LA, it also puts pressure on the other team to keep up.
Conversely, when the Spurs are not shooting well (Rockets) it really puts pressure on the defense to make up for it. And we didn't react all that well to that. All that said, that Houston game was an aberration (I think we shot 30% for the half).

What I haven't seen yet, is a game where the Spurs don't really shoot all that well and manage to win playing D. A grind it out type of game. Those games are a lot closer to what the playoffs will bring, and I thought we reacted really poorly to those games last season. I'm hoping this season is different with Thiago in there.

Exactly. When you're shooting well it puts less pressure on your defense but when you're shooting bad you're forced to defend better. The Spurs haven't had too many of those grind it out victories and I think it cost them against the Grizzlies who like grind it out games.

Tiago was part of the unit that tied the score in the Rockets game. If he could play with a better scoring unit like the starters they could probably have taken the lead. The good thing is that with Kawhi and Tiago, Pop has options when he wants to he needs to stop the bleeding on defense.

[therealtruth]

I'm actually hoping at some point Anderson starts with Manu coming of the bench. Which brings me to the question, do you think at some point Pop will alter his starting line-up ? or is he set with it ?

Pop has pretty much said he's done with Ginobili to the bench. He even second guesses himself on using it in the past. He's indoctrinated alot of people into always suggesting it. To me it never made sense to reward a guy who plays worse than the starter by starting him.

[Spurs Brazil]

Quote of the game: ”We just lived on the perimeter. We did that in Houston and lost by 20. We need to have a little bit more varied game, so to speak,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich on his team’s reliance on outside shooting.

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2012/01/01/game-remind-how-the-spurs-beat-the-jazz/

[Obstructed_View]

I would disagree on this. As much as the hot shooting opened the game against Utah and LA, it also puts pressure on the other team to keep up.
Conversely, when the Spurs are not shooting well (Rockets) it really puts pressure on the defense to make up for it. And we didn't react all that well to that. All that said, that Houston game was an aberration (I think we shot 30% for the half).

What I haven't seen yet, is a game where the Spurs don't really shoot all that well and manage to win playing D. A grind it out type of game. Those games are a lot closer to what the playoffs will bring, and I thought we reacted really poorly to those games last season. I'm hoping this season is different with Thiago in there.

The evidence supports that conclusion. The Spurs didn't play well on either end of the floor against Houston and the Rockets shot really well. We'll have to see if the Spurs can play defense on a night that their shots aren't falling.

[wildbill2u]

It looks like all the working out that Tim did during the off-season hasn't slowed his fading abilities. This season with multiple b2b games and a compressed schedule is going to speed up his physical deterioration.

You'd think shooting would be the among the last things to go, but he's simply not making shots he used to make with ease and he's getting his shot blocked a lot. Unfortunately, Tim never developed the crafty footwork of a McHale that might help now in the paint. It was sad to see him emotionally pump a fist last night after he made a once routine wide-open 17 foot shot from the top of the key.

TVP may have to rethink his grading system. If it is based on what the player can actually be expected to bring to the table, then Duncan should be getting all "As". He may be playing to his current ceiling.

[justinandimcool]

I'm actually hoping at some point Anderson starts with Manu coming of the bench. Which brings me to the question, do you think at some point Pop will alter his starting line-up ? or is he set with it ?

Not this year. Confident and talented as he is, Anderson is still super raw, inconsistent, and the team would suffer miserably if he started. If we want Manu off the bench I'd rather start Neal...but that negates the purpose since Neal is a spark off the bench anyways.

good starting lineup, good bench (what we have now) > bleh starting lineup (TP JA RJ TD DB), awesome bench (with Manu)

[spurs10]

I have been concerned time to time with our bench scoring ability. In the past, Manu coming off the bench made a bit more sense. With him so obviously being our best player, not so much anymore. While I've really been stoked about Tiago and Kawhi defensively, scoring isn't their main role. TJ isn't that guy either, so that leaves Neal with JA, Bonner, and Green. I think we'll see Neal and JA out there together some and TJ playing more often with Manu. Seems like Blair was the go to guy when Tony and Manu were resting. Getting Neal back will make a big difference I'm sure. Good to see Kawhi, with his 'nose' for the ball, being the first guy off the bench. I think it's helped Jefferson be more aggresive about scoring as well.

[mazerrackham]

Richard Jefferson B-
Richard Jefferson didn't do much good or bad. He hit a few shots early but his defensive intensity was inconsistent and his overall energy was poor. Jefferson seems content to be a spotup shooter these days. When he's hitting, he's useful. When he's not, he makes virtually no impact.

I don't hate RJ just to hate RJ, and he has been knocking in 3's like they were free throws so far, but I wonder if we had amnestied him and just had a Kawhi and Danny Green rotation if we wouldn't be better off. Danny Green's supposedly shooting pretty lights out since camp too, plus he brings defensive hustle.

[spurs10]

I don't hate RJ just to hate RJ, and he has been knocking in 3's like they were free throws so far, but I wonder if we had amnestied him and just had a Kawhi and Danny Green rotation if we wouldn't be better off. Danny Green's supposedly shooting pretty lights out since camp too, plus he brings defensive hustle.
I really like the depth we have at the 3 now and think Green and Kawhi have been motivating to RJ. I realize the major criticism of RJ has been his playoff play, more than his regular season, but we now have two other options at that position we didn't have before. How long can we play 13 players? Don't we have to drop back to 12 at some point? That would mean losing a couple of players when we get another big. Probably Joseph and, unfortunately, Green.

[SenorSpur]

It looks like all the working out that Tim did during the off-season hasn't slowed his fading abilities. This season with multiple b2b games and a compressed schedule is going to speed up his physical deterioration.
You'd think shooting would be the among the last things to go, but he's simply not making shots he used to make with ease and he's getting his shot blocked a lot. Unfortunately, Tim never developed the crafty footwork of a McHale that might help now in the paint. It was sad to see him emotionally pump a fist last night after he made a once routine wide-open 17 foot shot from the top of the key.

Therein lies the primary reason it will be tough to expect the Spurs to have a deep playoff run. We've all witnessed this the past two postseasons. Even with the assorted contributions from the role players and having a healthy Manu and TP, it still cannot begin to mitigate the dwindling production from the former superstar power forward.

[DieHardSpursFan1537]

Great takes on the players. Manu definetaley did the best.

[wildbill2u]

Therein lies the primary reason it will be tough to expect the Spurs to have a deep playoff run. We've all witnessed this the past two postseasons. Even with the assorted contributions from the role players and having a healthy Manu and TP, it still cannot begin to mitigate the dwindling production from the former superstar power forward.

It may be that Pop's decision to give Tim fewer minutes has less to do with keeping him "fresh" for the playoffs than the fact that his dwindling skills and production make it necessary to keep him on the bench. If so, that is a very kind way to retire a superstar.

[analyzed]

Pop has pretty much said he's done with Ginobili to the bench. He even second guesses himself on using it in the past. He's indoctrinated alot of people into always suggesting it. To me it never made sense to reward a guy who plays worse than the starter by starting him.

I never really understood this American fascination to start. (Internationally it doesn't matter) what matters is who finishes, or who is in when it matter most (your best 5). Which brings me to the question, the Spurs haven't been in that tight end game situation yet where Pop has had to show which 5 he will finish with, ao who we will he finish with? At SF RJ or Leonard, at PF Blair or Splitter? Seems like a offense vs defense trade off

[Hooks]

About Bonners knee, I just remembered he hurt it in the rockets game when he ran into the back of tiagos head with his knee while tiago was down, bonner too went down when he banged his knee.

[DPG21920]

Interesting quote by Pop, but do the Spurs have the personnel to not live by the perimeter? Also it's a little worrisome how Tim looks considering how early it is and how all of the reports were that he was in phenomenal shape. His minutes have been managed by foul trouble and by Pop so I don't get why he looks like he does. Hopefully it's more of a rust thing but I was anticipating more of a sharp start from Tim.

[ducks]

could blair be the post guy

[TD 21]

Leonard is a true SF and Neal will not be getting his minutes since Neal will be getting minutes at the PG and SG positions. So look for Neal to steal some minutes from the PG and SG position when we need some offense.

No, but Anderson could take Leonard's minutes as the primary backup SF. Because Neal is going to be the primary backup SG. Eventually, he may take over as the primary backup PG, but I don't see that happening now.

I don't think Pop will want to go away from one of Leonard or Anderson entirely though, so I wouldn't be surprised if he essentially platoon's them for a while.

[Fabbs]

Tim Duncan
[SIZE="5"]Tiago Splitter B+
Defensively, Tiago Splitter was really good at protecting the rim. He's never been a shotblocker at any level in his basketball career, however he's showing that ability so far this year. His post defense against the Jazz wasn't very good, however. On offense, Splitter was really, really aggressive -- with mostly positive results. The Spurs need him to get comfortable offensively for Splitter to reach his potential and he appears to be making strides in that direction.

Kawhi Leonard B-
In the first half, Kawhi Leonard looked good. His movement on offense continues to be a plus. He was also a big factor on the boards and played fine defense. In the second half, Leonard experience a lot of growing pains. He got caught being too aggressive defensively a number of times and found himself out of position. He also made a handful of tactical mistakes on the defensive end, especially in transition. That said, there's no way the Leonard is going to learn on the fly without these types of struggles.

Matt Bonner B
Hey, compared to the first three games, Matt Bonner was pretty damn good. He actually pulled down three rebounds and hit his only shot. His defense was still sub par but his passing on the offensive end helped the Spurs get off to a good offensive start. Watching him closely, he appears to be favoring one of his legs. He had a knee wrap in the first half, which may be a hint that he's not totally healthy right now.
Is the grading criteria how well the player does for said players skill set?
Or equal criteria for all players?

Leonard had 6 rebounds in 15 minutes.
Gingerbread had 3 land on him in 15.
As for his passing, i saw nothing that Ginger did out of the ordinary. GNob was on fire and all Bonner did was make one or two obvious passes.
D, help D, all the other stuff yet Gingerbread out earns Leonard by B to B-.
All the stuff Splitter has to do yet he only outearns Bonbon by a 1/2 a grade?

[spurs10]

Interesting quote by Pop, but do the Spurs have the personnel to not live by the perimeter? Also it's a little worrisome how Tim looks considering how early it is and how all of the reports were that he was in phenomenal shape. His minutes have been managed by foul trouble and by Pop so I don't get why he looks like he does. Hopefully it's more of a rust thing but I was anticipating more of a sharp start from Tim.
I think it's "more of a rust thing." Tim was clearly frustrated with his shot not falling, thus the fist pump. At one point during a dead ball he made 6 consecutive baskets, one after the other, just to watch the ball go through the %**$$#%ing net. He was getting a lot of boards and making it hard on Al Jefferson, not something many people can do.
:hat

[Obstructed_View]

I never really understood this American fascination to start. (Internationally it doesn't matter) what matters is who finishes, or who is in when it matter most (your best 5). Which brings me to the question, the Spurs haven't been in that tight end game situation yet where Pop has had to show which 5 he will finish with, ao who we will he finish with? At SF RJ or Leonard, at PF Blair or Splitter? Seems like a offense vs defense trade off

It'll be interesting to see how he handles those situations. As for starting, when the other teams in the league start their best players, you should put yours on the floor unless there's a clear matchup that you can exploit.

[Obstructed_View]

Interesting quote by Pop, but do the Spurs have the personnel to not live by the perimeter?

I'm totally puzzled by that quote, considering he's built the team just this side of the Dick Motta Mavericks to put up as many threes as possible.

[Seventyniner]

I'm totally puzzled by that quote, considering he's built the team just this side of the Dick Motta Mavericks to put up as many threes as possible.

This was true as recently as last season. However, the Spurs basically traded Hill for Leonard (this season, other pieces of that trade notwithstanding), signed Ford as a backup PG, and are finally playing Bonner the 4th-most big minutes. I think Pop wants to move away from a 3-point chucking team and has a tough task ahead of him. Heck, I recently saw a Ford/Ginobili/Leonard/Blair/Splitter lineup on the floor, and thought to myself "only 1 three-point shooter?! Isn't that 3 less than Pop usually wants?"

[Obstructed_View]

This was true as recently as last season. However, the Spurs basically traded Hill for Leonard (this season, other pieces of that trade notwithstanding), signed Ford as a backup PG, and are finally playing Bonner the 4th-most big minutes. I think Pop wants to move away from a 3-point chucking team and has a tough task ahead of him. Heck, I recently saw a Ford/Ginobili/Leonard/Blair/Splitter lineup on the floor, and thought to myself "only 1 three-point shooter?! Isn't that 3 less than Pop usually wants?"

Four games does not unmake what Pop made the team into over the last several years. It would be like Jason Garrett coming out tonight and saying "I don't know why our secondary was so bad".

[BillMc]

Just wanted to say how much I appreciate the write ups Timvp. I don't always agree (though usually I do), but you do a really nice job every time. The first thing I do after every game is wait for the grades. (Especially if I didn't see it!)

Keep up the great work.

[therealtruth]

This was true as recently as last season. However, the Spurs basically traded Hill for Leonard (this season, other pieces of that trade notwithstanding), signed Ford as a backup PG, and are finally playing Bonner the 4th-most big minutes. I think Pop wants to move away from a 3-point chucking team and has a tough task ahead of him. Heck, I recently saw a Ford/Ginobili/Leonard/Blair/Splitter lineup on the floor, and thought to myself "only 1 three-point shooter?! Isn't that 3 less than Pop usually wants?"

I think Pop was fascinated with as many three point shooters as possible after the Suns beat the Spurs in '10 playoffs. The problem in that series is the Spurs didn't stay on the shooters or at least leave the worst shooters open like Grant Hill. It would have been better to have let Stoudemire go for 40 with Dice defending him than let all their shooter go crazy from 3. They also lacked a Bowen type defender to unleash on Nash. I think they should have experimented with RJ there. They tried putting Ginobili on Nash in game 4 but they were already asking him to do so much on offense.

[Manu-of-steel]

Thanks tmvp.

[dylankerouac]

Does anybody remember the forward line-up we saw in the game. I think it was somewhere in the 3rd or 4th when I saw Leonard, Jefferson, I think Blair and Tiago in there. I don't remember who was on PG duties. I thought this was an interesting line-up. I may have to go back and watch how long this unit was on the floor together and what they accomplished.

[Mel_13]

Does anybody remember the forward line-up we saw in the game. I think it was somewhere in the 3rd or 4th when I saw Leonard, Jefferson, I think Blair and Tiago in there. I don't remember who was on PG duties. I thought this was an interesting line-up. I may have to go back and watch how long this unit was on the floor together and what they accomplished.

It was Splitter/Blair/Leonard/RJ/TJ. It was just for a few minutes in the 4th and the lead dropped from about 25 to 15 and then Tony and Anderson subbed in for TJ and Leonard.

[dylankerouac]

Ah ok, thanks. I hope Kawhi gets at least 20 minutes tonight.