Spurs call up Malcolm Thomas

[Bruno]

http://twitter.com/#!/SpearsNBAYahoo/status/156475155143602176


Spurs call up NBDL LA Defenders forward Malcolm Thomas, source says.

[Hooks]

Nice! He played with Leonard at SDSU, he was pretty vital to the team's success. He's a very athletic guy, he's pretty damn fast for a PF and can run the floor very well.

[Bruno]

Maybe Spurs didn't like what they saw form Diogu, which wouldn't at all a surprise, and they are trying a new PF.

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.

[Hooks]

He's also good friends with Kawhi, both high energy guys as well.


Nice article on him:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/apr/01/aztecs-thomas-hoping-join-leonard-nba/


I wonder if he can take Diogu's spot on the roster?

[Interrohater]

Physically, Thomas has intriguing tools that mesh well with what he brought to the table on the college level. He's a bit undersized for a NBA power forward at just 6'8, but his 7'2 wingspan made him a menacing shot blocker at SDSU and allows him to play a bit taller than he's listed. While his 220 pound frame could still use additional muscle, Thomas is a good all-around athlete, running the floor well and looking exceptionally quick off his feet when pursuing rebounds.[/URL]


Defensively, Thomas had extended stretches of promise. He had a number of big time blocked shots at the rim over the course of the week, and while he wasn't pursuing every shot he likely could have, he showed terrific timing. When he was playing on the weakside he showed a nose for the ball and a willingness to box out when pursuing rebounds. Couple that with the lateral quickness he showed defending the perimeter and it was tough not to come away impressed his defensive versatility.

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com#ixzz1izsruGtR (http://www.draftexpress.com)
[url]http://www.draftexpress.com

[ace3g]

His twitter bg showcases classic Kawhi:

https://si0.twimg.com/profile_background_images/374178532/mediaManager.jpg

[Hooks]

Maybe Spurs didn't like what they saw form Diogu, which wouldn't at all a surprise, and they are trying a new PF.

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.


I forgot about Blair. I wouldn't be surprised if the Spurs assign him to the Toros though. I wonder if them calling him up has anything to do with Kawhi, trying to make his transition to the NBA easier by bringing over a friend.

[TE]

Another undersized big. Does the FO not fucking learn?

[lmbebo]

Hope he can bring energy to the front line.

[lefty]

His twitter bg showcases classic Kawhi:

https://si0.twimg.com/profile_background_images/374178532/mediaManager.jpg


Fuck, does Leonard ever smiles ?

[Interrohater]

Last D-League season that he was with the D-Fenders, he averaged 14.3 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 2.7 blocks in 31 mpg. From Ridiculous Upside:

Malcolm Thomas (http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-basketball/players/100717/malcolm-thomas) has the tools and athleticism to be a contributor in the NBA but can he show he is a well-rounded basketball player and not just an athlete? Thomas put up a good showing in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, earning first team honors, which no doubt piqued the interest of a few scouts. Standing at 6'9", Thomas has an impressive 7-foot-2 wingspan, which helped him to his 7.0% block rate in 2010-11 while anchoring the 3rd most efficient defense in the nation.
If Thomas wants to fit into a NBA rotation, he will have to be committed to defense on a nightly basis, as this will be the only way he will be able to garner any minutes. This is his biggest strength though, coming out through a hunger to play defense, the basketball IQ of knowing when and where to rotate and the eagerness to box out and rebound.
It is easy to say at 6-foot-9 that Thomas is undersized to play defense in the NBA. However, Thomas currently is projected to be a fringe rotation player, meaning he will not be matched up against star players most likely but instead matched up against the likes Amir Johnson (http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-basketball/players/26497/amir-johnson) of Toronto or Matt Bonner (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/21772/matt-bonner) of San Antonio. When facing these players, Thomas should be able to hold his own on the defensive end. He showed a passion for working on the defensive end and the knowledge of where to rotate along with the athletic ability to get to the right spot on the floor to play help defense.

[IronMaxipad]

This Luck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_Lu ck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_ sucks there's a reason lakers cut him.

[cantthinkofanything]

Fuck, does Leonard ever smiles ?

Who can blame the young man after what he's been through.

[Hooks]

Another undersized big. Does the FO not fucking learn?


He's 6'7.25 without shoes and around 6'9 with shoes which is a good height for a PF, weighs 225lbs and he's also very long. Thomas was a very good defender in college, people have also said he's a very versatile defender. His no step vert is 32.5 (very good), it's probably around 36 inches max which would help him block shots.

[ace3g]

Prospect Watch: Showcase Edition

No. 11: Malcolm Thomas
Forward, L.A. D-Fenders
Thomas had quite the summer. After wrapping up at San Diego State University, he and current NBA player Kawhi Leonard helped to transform the Aztec program, he went (somewhat shockingly) undrafted. So, as a way to help heal that wound, signed for a hefty chunk of change with Korean club Mobis Phoebus, where he was set to make a reported $350,000. But an invite to Lakers camp brought him back Stateside, and the man who ended up second all-time on SDSU’s blocked shots list in only two years with the team could very well make the Showcase one giant coming-out party.

http://www.nba.com/dleague/news/prospect_watch_showcase_2012_01_09.html

[024]

Thomas currently is projected to be a fringe rotation player, meaning he will not be matched up against star players most likely but instead matched up against the likes Amir Johnson (http://www.sbnation.com/ncaa-basketball/players/26497/amir-johnson) of Toronto or Matt Bonner (http://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/21772/matt-bonner) of San Antonio. When facing these players, Thomas should be able to hold his own on the defensive end.
:rollin not very encouraging words if in the same category of fringe rotation players like bonner

[Hooks]

This Luck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_Lu ck_The_Fakers_Luck_The_Fakers_ sucks there's a reason lakers cut him.


Lakers don't know how to develop a player lol, they just buy and trade for their ships. Spurs on the other hand are the exact opposite.

Thomas could wind up being a solid 4th or 5th big or be with the Toros, at least the Spurs took a chance on him.

[Libri]

:rollin not very encouraging words if in the same category of fringe rotation players like bonner

He should do well against Bonner type players? :lmao

[Maddog]

Maybe Spurs didn't like what they saw form Diogu, which wouldn't at all a surprise, and they are trying a new PF.

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.

Awaiting the Spurs waive Diogu in 3, 2,

[Dex]

His twitter bg showcases classic Kawhi:

https://si0.twimg.com/profile_background_images/374178532/mediaManager.jpg

Kawhi is not amused.

[Dex]

Is this guy going to be the next Gani Lawal!?

[Interrohater]

Is this guy going to be the next Gani Lawal!?
Nope, Malik Hairston

[jjktkk]

Another undersized big. Does the FO not fucking learn?

Got a list of bigs you think they need to take a look at?

[Bruno]

Spurs called him up something like an hour before his first D-League showcase game. I guess Spurs liked him and feared that after a good game another team would steal him from them. That's some smart move.

[scottspurs]

San Antonio Aztecs

[angelbelow]

Maybe Spurs didn't like what they saw form Diogu, which wouldn't at all a surprise, and they are trying a new PF.

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.

I don't think anyone would dare try and justify Diogu after that Thunder game. (Unless you argue that the sample size was too small..)

[angelbelow]

Another undersized big. Does the FO not fucking learn?

Calm down, David Robinson's don't grow on trees. Probably 99% of the teams out there would love another 7'0 footer who can play but unless we discover an island full of Admirals, chances are slim.

[slick'81]

dont know anything about this kid but >diogu

[phxspurfan]

I like the move...low risk, medium reward.

[jjktkk]

Calm down, David Robinson's don't grow on trees. Probably 99% of the teams out there would love another 7'0 footer who can play but unless we discover an island full of Admirals, chances are slim.

:wow, The voice of reason. Be careful angel, some folks on here will crucify you for making sense. :lol

[ChumpDumper]

Dude's been a bit of a blocking machine in the D-League this season. As good as anyone to call up this season -- and yeah, he was bound to be picked up by some team this week.

[Solid D]

From what I've seen of Malcolm, I like his potential better than I do Ike Diagu's. He can get up and down and provide weakside rim support on D (which...if he can rotate over properly, the Spurs could really use right now).

As I mentioned earlier, Ike is really only good as a practice body, if the Spurs ever get to practice.

[ace3g]

Plus might be easier to add muscle to Thomas than it is to lose fat from Ike...

[TD 21]

Sounds like he's in the mold of McGuire or Amir Johnson (before he could shoot and added muscle). Because of his athleticism and shot blocking, he makes more sense than Diogu, who appears to be at best a poor man's Blair at this point.

Ideally, the Spurs need a fifth big that can play both big positions. Obviously, Thomas doesn't have the size to do that, but he could play some next to Blair -- if/when they choose to give Duncan the odd game off -- because of his ability to protect the rim.

They really should be carrying six bigs though, at least for a month or two. Now that they have the athletic shot blocker they need, the other big should be a center that can shoot. Cousin would make sense.

[angelbelow]

Dude's been a bit of a blocking machine in the D-League this season. As good as anyone to call up this season -- and yeah, he was bound to be picked up by some team this week.

Looks like we got an athlete like you predicted. Other than being a blocking machine, how does he fair in other areas (if you caught the games that is.)

[angelbelow]

:wow, The voice of reason. Be careful angel, some folks on here will crucify you for making sense. :lol

Haha, when has that ever stopped us.

[ChumpDumper]

Looks like we got an athlete like you predicted. Other than being a blocking machine, how does he fair in other areas (if you caught the games that is.)Have only seen highlights so far; was actually waiting for the showcase to see him in action. Will try to review one of his games against similar players in the next day or so.

[Bruno]

Since the 07-08 season, Spurs have called up 17 different D-League players: Marcus Williams, Keith Langford, DerMarr Johnson, Jeremy Richardson, Bobby Jones, Blake Ahearn, Malik Hairston, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Cedric Jackson, Garrett Temple, Curtis Jerrells, Alonzo Gee, Larry Owens, Steve Novak, Othyus Jeffers, Danny Green and now Malcolm Thomas.

None of these players has had a significant impact for Spurs. You had to give props to Spurs organization for keep trying. Maybe one day, something good will pop of all these moves.

[DMC]

Malcom Thomas...

Wasn't he working at Lowe's? How did they get ahold of him on the phone?

[DMC]

Calm down, David Robinson's don't grow on trees. Probably 99% of the teams out there would love another 7'0 footer who can play but unless we discover an island full of Admirals, chances are slim.

But they've been known to swing from a few.

:king

[phxspurfan]

Since the 07-08 season, Spurs have called up 17 different D-League players: Marcus Williams, Keith Langford, DerMarr Johnson, Jeremy Richardson, Bobby Jones, Blake Ahearn, Malik Hairston, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Cedric Jackson, Garrett Temple, Curtis Jerrells, Alonzo Gee, Larry Owens, Steve Novak, Othyus Jeffers, Danny Green and now Malcolm Thomas.

None of these players has had a significant impact for Spurs. You had to give props to Spurs organization for keep trying. Maybe one day, something good will pop of all these moves.

DerMarr Johnson...awesome headband guy

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_kOv_Hz3sg6Q/R__l0V20BpI/AAAAAAAAAA8/1YoZU2ThDes/s320/dermarr_johnson_250_071229.jpg

[weebo]

Another scrub. Nothing to get all worked up about.

[slick'81]

Since the 07-08 season, Spurs have called up 17 different D-League players: Marcus Williams, Keith Langford, DerMarr Johnson, Jeremy Richardson, Bobby Jones, Blake Ahearn, Malik Hairston, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Cedric Jackson, Garrett Temple, Curtis Jerrells, Alonzo Gee, Larry Owens, Steve Novak, Othyus Jeffers, Danny Green and now Malcolm Thomas.

None of these players has had a significant impact for Spurs. You had to give props to Spurs organization for keep trying. Maybe one day, something good will pop of all these moves.


damn only green and gee stick out

[Libri]

Since the 07-08 season, Spurs have called up 17 different D-League players: Marcus Williams, Keith Langford, DerMarr Johnson, Jeremy Richardson, Bobby Jones, Blake Ahearn, Malik Hairston, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Cedric Jackson, Garrett Temple, Curtis Jerrells, Alonzo Gee, Larry Owens, Steve Novak, Othyus Jeffers, Danny Green and now Malcolm Thomas.

None of these players has had a significant impact for Spurs. You had to give props to Spurs organization for keep trying. Maybe one day, something good will pop of all these moves.

That's about four years of trying?

[Koolaid_Man]

http://twitter.com/#!/SpearsNBAYahoo/status/156475155143602176 (http://twitter.com/#%21/SpearsNBAYahoo/status/156475155143602176)


they should be contending in no time :lol

[Bruno]

That's about four years of trying?

Yep, it is.

All these failures show how difficult it is to turn a D-League player into a legit NBA player. Spurs haven't been able to do so despite trying very hard.

[wildbill2u]

Maybe they signed him just to keep Leonard happy.

[Russ]

Here is his draft profile:

http://nbadraft.net/players/malcolm-thomas

He looks a bit more promising than most D leaguers just because he's fairly athletic and physical.

If he can play D and rebound, he can play for the Spurs.

[spurtech09]

Maybe Spurs didn't like what they saw form Diogu, which wouldn't at all a surprise, and they are trying a new PF.

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.I know Diogu only played one game with the spurs but I rather have a young pf on the squad

[spurtech09]

Here is his draft profile:

http://nbadraft.net/players/malcolm-thomas

He looks a bit more promising than most D leaguers just because he's fairly athletic and physical.

If he can play D and rebound, he can play for the Spurs.
if hes athletic and physcial than im sold....than add some good dand rebound im on board....

[ChuckD]

damn only green and gee stick out

Temple was REALLY good finishing out his first season here. His game fell off a cliff over the summer, and he was cut in the fall. Everything that everyone is saying about Green noew, they were saying about Temple then.

[ChuckD]

damn only green and gee stick out

Temple was REALLY good finishing out his first season here. His game fell off a cliff over the summer, and he was cut in the fall. Everything that everyone is saying about Green now, they were saying about Temple then.

[Solid D]

Devin Brown is probably the one who has had the most success of those who have played for the Spurs. USBL and then a NBDL MVP and then finally stuck with the Spurs on his 3rd try. He did help them in the regular season and the playoffs. Of course he got in Pop's doghouse with his lack of self-discipline, but he still was able to play in the NBA for 7-8 yrs...up until 2010.

[angelbelow]

Temple was REALLY good finishing out his first season here. His game fell off a cliff over the summer, and he was cut in the fall. Everything that everyone is saying about Green noew, they were saying about Temple then.

Yeah.. its really too bad Temple got injured before the start of the 2010-2011 season. You're right though, Temple was described as "fearless, confident, natural feel" much like Green. Temple was more of a PG so he had more responsibilities while Green's job is to defend first. Hopefully Green pans out.

[GSH]

Yep, it is.

All these failures show how difficult it is to turn a D-League player into a legit NBA player. Spurs haven't been able to do so despite trying very hard.


It's about the same as trying to turn a budget NBA player into a legit NBA player. Theo Ratliff, Austin Croshere, Jacques Vaughn, Damon Stoudamire, Eric Williams, Nick VanExel, Chriss Quinn, Bobby Simmons. Matt Bonner.

Looks like with Green and now Malcom Thomas the Spurs are looking for defenders first and foremost. They can't afford an established big man. They obviously can't afford a SF who would be an upgrade over what they already have. I guess if you're going to go fishing for a surprise player on a budget, the best chance is finding an under-rated defender.

[jhuan16]

Good find, I hope he can shoot the three and spread the floor

[TDMVPDPOY]

i think its best to go undrafted for the ungaraunteed money, play ur soul out for minimum then get a big contract for 3-4 years, earning same or more amount then the first lotterypick....

[Ice009]

Good find, I hope he can shoot the three and spread the floor

Is that sarcasm?

[8FOR!3]

I could see this guy doing a decent job against tweeners defensively. Guys on Minnesota like Derrick Williams and Michael Beasley are the type that kill us. He might need some seasoning before sticking him on a guy as good as Odom or Josh Smith, but there could be a use for him. The good thing about having a tweener on the team is that they can match up with another team's tweener.

Dude's a shot blocker and I could see him being a legit role player IF he can develop a solid jump shot. I think he's got the potential to develop that shot, but it's all on him. Teams are proving as of late that scrub big guys can stick if they can hit the midrange.

Good article:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/apr/01/aztecs-thomas-hoping-join-leonard-nba/

[Jahivah]

At the most, he'll be here for two weeks. See a few minutes and get sent back down Pop's inability to develop his young talent has killed this team.

[Doctor J]

He used to play in the Korean Basketball League.

He wasn't that impressive there.

He is a defensive-minded guy, but he can't shoot.

[Interrohater]

He used to play in the Korean Basketball League.

He wasn't that impressive there.

He is a defensive-minded guy, but he can't shoot.

I'm not saying he's even close, but Tyson chandler nor ben Wallace can shoot. That really means nothing if you can block a bunch of shots. I'll take 3 blocks and a multitude of challenged shots over 15pts any day.

[Interrohater]

Also, he apparently averaged 21 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks and three assists during his time in Korea. That sounds like the opposite of wasn't that impressive.

[Darkwaters]

Another undersized big. Does the FO not fucking learn?

It's a D-League call-up. The guys with prototypical size come with other glaring concerns or actually are Greg Ostertag. If the guy has the skills and size hes usually on an NBA roster already.

[Darkwaters]

Since the 07-08 season, Spurs have called up 17 different D-League players: Marcus Williams, Keith Langford, DerMarr Johnson, Jeremy Richardson, Bobby Jones, Blake Ahearn, Malik Hairston, Pops Mensah-Bonsu, Cedric Jackson, Garrett Temple, Curtis Jerrells, Alonzo Gee, Larry Owens, Steve Novak, Othyus Jeffers, Danny Green and now Malcolm Thomas.

None of these players has had a significant impact for Spurs. You had to give props to Spurs organization for keep trying. Maybe one day, something good will pop of all these moves.

Danny Green is close to actually being an impact player.

After that I'd say the next closest is Garrett Temple and Steve Novak.

So of the three players I mentioned only one was a true undrafted free agent and two were former draft pick cast offs that got recycled. Not good odds.

[mathbzh]

He should do well against Bonner type players? :lmao

CIA Pop... No other team will call up the Bonner stopper

[Darkwaters]

We forgot James White!

[Ice009]

I could see this guy doing a decent job against tweeners defensively. Guys on Minnesota like Derrick Williams and Michael Beasley are the type that kill us. He might need some seasoning before sticking him on a guy as good as Odom or Josh Smith, but there could be a use for him. The good thing about having a tweener on the team is that they can match up with another team's tweener.

Dude's a shot blocker and I could see him being a legit role player IF he can develop a solid jump shot. I think he's got the potential to develop that shot, but it's all on him. Teams are proving as of late that scrub big guys can stick if they can hit the midrange.

Good article:

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2011/apr/01/aztecs-thomas-hoping-join-leonard-nba/

Thanks for the link. Here is a quote from Steve Kerr in that article :

“I think Malcolm can play in the NBA,” said CBS analyst Steve Kerr, a Rancho Santa Fe resident and the former general manager of the Phoenix Suns. “He’s got such great length. He may be a little light, but I see some Taj Gibson in him. He can guard multiple positions and block shots, and I think he’s got a chance to be an NBA player because of that unique ability to defend.”

[Darkwaters]

I'm excited about him. This team has taken a lot of flyers on young athletic scorers but not nearly so many shots at young defensive specialists. Add in the fact that scant few of our callups have been bigs and Malcolm is something we haven't seen in a while.

Maybe he doesn't pan out, but it's refreshing to see the front office go after the kind of player the fanbase has been screaming for for years instead of Matt Bonner 2.0

[TJastal]

Temple was REALLY good finishing out his first season here. His game fell off a cliff over the summer, and he was cut in the fall. Everything that everyone is saying about Green now, they were saying about Temple then.

Giving us a little revisionist history eh? :nope

I never said anything good about Temple, didn't like him from the start and realized fairly quick he was basically a swiss army knife combo guard (and a poor one at that) .something you would only use if you didn't have a proper tool handy.

[TJastal]

I'm excited about him. This team has taken a lot of flyers on young athletic scorers but not nearly so many shots at young defensive specialists. Add in the fact that scant few of our callups have been bigs and Malcolm is something we haven't seen in a while.

Maybe he doesn't pan out, but it's refreshing to see the front office go after the kind of player the fanbase has been screaming for for years instead of Matt Bonner 2.0

A shotblocker who is long and athletic is defenitely something the team has been lacking with Duncan on his last legs and a frontcourt consisting of a guy who also can't jump much (Splitter), an undersized PF with no cartiledge in his knees (Blair), and a wannabe SG who rebounds like one (Boner).

[ChuckD]

Giving us a little revisionist history eh? :nope

I never said anything good about Temple, didn't like him from the start and realized fairly quick he was basically a swiss army knife combo guard (and a poor one at that) .something you would only use if you didn't have a proper tool handy.

:lol No that would be ridiculous, since you never say anything positive about any players or the Spurs in general. Feel free to silently exclude yourself from any future "everyone" I drop without the need to post it. We all know you don't think positively on any Spurs plane. :rollin

[TJastal]

:lol No that would be ridiculous, since you never say anything positive about any players or the Spurs in general. Feel free to silently exclude yourself from any future "everyone" I drop without the need to post it. We all know you don't think positively on any Spurs plane. :rollin

More revisionist history it would appear.

In fact,, I've said plenty of positive things about past and present spurs... Manu, Robinson, Duncan, Bowen, Hill, Splitter, Mahinmi, Danny Green just to name a few.

But don't let facts get in the way of your tirade.

[Buddy Holly]

From the highlights of this kid, he seems to play with emotion. I like that.

The type that can fire up his teammates, esp on D.

[timvp]

Let's just hope it's not because Blair is injured.

Agreed. Hopefully this this move wasn't made to survive a Blair injury.

Regarding Malcom Thomas, he looks like a decent prospect. While D-League call-ups have like a 95% failure rate, at least he has a few interesting attributes.

Safe to say Spurs scouts spent a lot of time watching San Diego State games.

[xellos88330]

From what I am reading about him, he should be great to cover jump shooting bigs. He is quick enough laterally to keep them from driving straight to the hole, and might be able to do well in the pnr. I don't really care much for offensive potential right now. I am just tired of teams driving the lane ALL the time.

[loveforthegame]

Sounds interesting. Looks like he has some of what the Spurs need.

Don't want to get too excited as these guys rarely pan out but I'd rather give a shot to someone like this than Diogu type players.

[ace3g]

Some footage of Kawhi as well
wBHKCSEs_UA

[acoelho1]

I like this guy and if he can provide some shot blocking, which we desparately need, it would improve our defense. Although, Pop won't be giving him any playing time unless an injury occurs. Maybe someone can Tonya Harding Bonner.

[Man In Black]

Both Kawhi and Malcolm were 1st All-Mountain West D Team.
If he could provide good position D with the looming chance at a swat, then it's a good signing.

[Man In Black]

Both Kawhi and Malcolm were 1st All-Mountain West D Team.
If he could provide good position D with the looming chance at a swat, then it's a good signing.

[will_spurs]

I'd rather see the Spurs give a chance to a young, unproven player than guarantee minutes to a proven done vet who's never been any good.

[Spurs Brazil]

JMcDonald_SAEN Spurs haven't officially signed D-League PF Malcolm Thomas, and he's not in MIL, but you can expect him to join team Wed. vs. HOU.

[ace3g]

maybe they want to give Ike one more game tonight, then waive him, sign Thomas

[spurs50_]

U mean ike is not signed for the whole yr?

[Bruno]

maybe they want to give Ike one more game tonight, then waive him, sign Thomas

I think it's just because of a logistic problem. Thomas was in Reno yesterday. He would have spend the day to go to Milwaukee and then would have traveled back to SA with the team. It makes more sense for him to travel from Reno to SA today, have a good night of rest tonight and then do the medical visit/contract signing tomorrow.

[slick'81]

in other words theres no rush to bring in someone who will barely see the court this season

[callo1]

I don't think anyone would dare try and justify Diogu after that Thunder game. (Unless you argue that the sample size was too small..)

How can anyone judge Diogu from a blowout loss when he saw very limited time in only his second time on the court? Seriously now, had TJ's game been defined by his first few games as a Spur, he wouldn't be here now.

How many people on this board talked about TJ "dribbling the air out of the ball", or being a turn over machine?

I am not trying to defend Ike, but yeah, the sample size is infentesimal. The guy had no camp and has barely seen the floor. That being said, he looked out of shape (which is to be expected), so maybe the front office is looking another direction.

We don't need a backup big racking up double doubles every night, we just need a solid big off the bench. In my opinion, we need a big that does what our other bigs don't do right now (with exception to Blair). We need a guy that will bang, alter shots and get some boards, and draw some contact with some garbage man cleanup down low...not unlike what Will Purdue gave the team in 1999.

Thomas may be a good fit from the standpoint that he and Kawhai have some chemistry. I think the only thing keeping Kawhai from entering beast mode is some shot tweaking with his jumper and more confidence on the floor. Thomas and Leonard together on the floor may be exactly what Kawhai needs.

Don't expect a superstar for the vet minumum, set your sights a bit more realistic, like a better big than Bonner for the vet minimum:)

I actually don't want to hate on Bonner, he has something to offer, it just won't be found anywhere near physicality...is has been unfair to Bonner the last few seasons having to rely on him to do stuff he just isn't made for.

[Gagnrath]

Alonzo Gee has panned out to be a solid rotation NBA player. Temple was decent last year with the bobcats, but got offered nice money in Italy as long as he didn't have an out clause in his contract for the NBA season actually happening. For a fringe rotation player it was a smart financial move and I see him coming back and signing to be a significant part of some team next year. No these guys aren't going to be all stars for the most part but someone who is a decent part of your team for 8 to 10 minutes on the court a night is good and valuable.

The D league isn't for making all stars, though if it happens great, it is for making role players and subs who aren't scrubs.

[ace3g]

maybe they want to give Ike one more game tonight, then waive him, sign Thomas

spurs San Antonio Spurs
The team has announced the signing of Malcolm Thomas and placing of Ike Diogu on waivers - http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/120111_spurs_sign_malcolm_thomas

[FvckMavs]

Is Diogu's contract fully guaranteed?

[MANUUU]

i know malcolm personally as he went to my high school in san diego, and he's a great guy. he's really good. i hope him connecting with kawhi will bring chemistry and some youth to help timmy. i'm excited! this is a dream for me. two of my favorite guys from san diego are going to my favorite team of all time. great news this morning.

[angelbelow]

How can anyone judge Diogu from a blowout loss when he saw very limited time in only his second time on the court? Seriously now, had TJ's game been defined by his first few games as a Spur, he wouldn't be here now.

How many people on this board talked about TJ "dribbling the air out of the ball", or being a turn over machine?

I am not trying to defend Ike, but yeah, the sample size is infentesimal. The guy had no camp and has barely seen the floor. That being said, he looked out of shape (which is to be expected), so maybe the front office is looking another direction.

We don't need a backup big racking up double doubles every night, we just need a solid big off the bench. In my opinion, we need a big that does what our other bigs don't do right now (with exception to Blair). We need a guy that will bang, alter shots and get some boards, and draw some contact with some garbage man cleanup down low...not unlike what Will Purdue gave the team in 1999.

Thomas may be a good fit from the standpoint that he and Kawhai have some chemistry. I think the only thing keeping Kawhai from entering beast mode is some shot tweaking with his jumper and more confidence on the floor. Thomas and Leonard together on the floor may be exactly what Kawhai needs.

Don't expect a superstar for the vet minumum, set your sights a bit more realistic, like a better big than Bonner for the vet minimum:)

I actually don't want to hate on Bonner, he has something to offer, it just won't be found anywhere near physicality...is has been unfair to Bonner the last few seasons having to rely on him to do stuff he just isn't made for.

I'm not just judging him based off one game. I watched a ton of Clipper games last year (since I live in LA and all my friends hopped on the Clipper band wagon) and he was terrible last year and hes still terrible this year. The Clippers have a deleted front line this year and they didn't even want him for the minimum. They kept Brian Cook instead, who is like a worse and more selfish version of Bonner over Diogu for goodness sake.

Ike Diogu has been hyped since he was drafted as a lottery pick but he is nothing but a roster filler. He sealed his own fate by being lazy, refusing to work hard and get in shape. There's a difference in being a legit 5th/6th big (Veteran, prospect, size etc) and just flat out not being a NBA caliber player (Ike Diogu.)

The Bonner hate is often unjustified and blown out of proportion. He has the resume and tools to be a 5th big but that's really all he should be. A situational player whom provides the occasional scoring punch and big body when necessary.

[LakerHater]

WoW, kid looked good in College lets see what he can bring to the Black & Silver!

[dylankerouac]

Odds that he gets playing time tonight?

[Amuseddaysleeper]

wd6KwsleD_0

[LakerHater]

Odds that he gets playing time tonight?
Zero chance!

[Darkwaters]

Odds that he gets playing time tonight?

Thats rough coming in and playing your first day with a new team - at a level thats way higher than anything you've ever done. I'd probably prefer he doesn't play.

Change of subject: does the waiving of Ike Diogu mean that the Spurs are looking to sign a filler PG now?

[TimmehC]

Odds that he gets playing time tonight?

Duncan played a lot last night. I could see him getting some burn if the game isn't close.

[angelbelow]

Thats rough coming in and playing your first day with a new team - at a level thats way higher than anything you've ever done. I'd probably prefer he doesn't play.

Change of subject: does the waiving of Ike Diogu mean that the Spurs are looking to sign a filler PG now?

Hmm hopefully there are garbage minutes available because the Spurs took care of the rockets in 2 quarters and a half.

[jjktkk]

Hmm hopefully there are garbage minutes available because the Spurs took care of the rockets in 2 quarters and a half.

This.

[ace3g]

24writer 24writer
"You have to call his college coach,"-Pop on what he knows of newest #Spurs player Malcolm Thomas.
13 minutes ago Favorite Retweet Reply

24writer
24writer 24writer
Newest addition Malcolm Thomas on the floor right now working in the post with coach Newman and Marks in the post. CJ out here too. #Spurs

Wf_D0SE3iF8

[ChumpDumper]

Some vintage Marks defense there.

[ChuckD]

Odds that he gets playing time tonight?


Zero chance!


Thats rough coming in and playing your first day with a new team - at a level thats way higher than anything you've ever done. I'd probably prefer he doesn't play.

Change of subject: does the waiving of Ike Diogu mean that the Spurs are looking to sign a filler PG now?

Don't bet against it. Pop has a history of throwing guys out there in their first game just to see their reaction/play level, even if it's for 4-5 minutes.

[ChumpDumper]

When Scola starts torching them, Pop might as well try him.

[DPG21920]

Tiago did fine on him, hopefully pop goes to that more.

[xmas1997]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Thomas turns out to be the defensive big the Spurs have been missing. He did real well with Leonard in college and probably should have been drafted based on his defense alone. If he does, that changes everything defensively.

[wildbill2u]

This guy will be fabulous, a sure All-star. I watched the video and he shoots 100% and gets every rebound, blocks every shot, and can clap his hands real good.

[Man In Black]

Not saying he's an All-star anything but before people jump at what he can do as a Spur,

it helps to know what people thought about him when he decided to leave San Diego State.
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Malcolm-Thomas-5055/


I see...good WEAKside blocker.

[xmas1997]

He seems to be a tweener SF/PF, but with good defensive instincts as shown when he was Leonards teammate. If he can give some of that defense without being pushed around by the bigger PFs and block shots, I think he will make this team. He has the leaping and lateral movement ability that it is no wonder the Spurs jumped on him quickly.

[ChumpDumper]

We'll see if he gets any time in the next two games. If not, I wouldn't be surprised to see him playing against Frank Hassell in Austin next Wednesday.

[Darkwaters]

Still psyched about the Spurs finally going after a project shotblocker.

:toast Heres to the next great Spurstalk man-crush.

[Interrohater]

Still psyched about the Spurs finally going after a project shotblocker.

:toast Heres to the next great Spurstalk man-crush.
::blush::

[GSH]

I've seen two references now that the Spurs signed Thomas to a 3-year contract. They aren't giving a D-League callup guaranteed money. Anyone know what the story is?

[Mel_13]

I've seen two references now that the Spurs signed Thomas to a 3-year contract. They aren't giving a D-League callup guaranteed money. Anyone know what the story is?

As I understand the rules for a non-drafted rookie, it is entirely possible that they signed him to a three year contract with little or no money guaranteed.

[GSH]

As I understand the rules for a non-drafted rookie, it is entirely possible that they signed him to a three year contract with little or no money guaranteed.

Thanks. I don't remember ever seeing that before. I guess you can't read anything into it except they've got him locked up if he works out.

Three years for a D-League callup, but all of it non-guaranteed? Still smh.

[timvp]

I've seen two references now that the Spurs signed Thomas to a 3-year contract.Interesting. Link? I haven't seen that ... but then again, I haven't read much about the signing since these things rarely work out.


As I understand the rules for a non-drafted rookie, it is entirely possible that they signed him to a three year contract with little or no money guaranteed.

Yeah, you can sign second round draft picks or undrafted players (or first round picks drafted three or more years ago) to any contract you wish by using cap space or the MLE.


Thanks. I don't remember ever seeing that before.

Da'Sean Butler was signed to a three-year contract. Same with Gary Neal. The Spurs have done it a few other times recently.

The thinking behind giving players a three-year deal is you guarantee them a certain amount of money in exchange for the player giving up control of their free agency status for a few years. It's actually a genius way to do it and can save tons of money. For example, if Neal would have been a free agent this past offseason, he would probably cost at least three or four times as much as he costs this season. Maybe more.

With Thomas, if the Spurs did give him a three-year deal, they probably gave him sort of amount guaranteed this year in exchange for control for the next two years. For Butler, the amount was $100K. For Neal, the Spurs had to guarantee the entire first year in exchange for two unguaranteed seasons. Unless there was a bidding war for Thomas, I assume the Spurs probably guaranteed him $25-75K in exchange for the control.

In the grand scheme of things, this doesn't mean too much other than Thomas will probably stay around until he at least plays off the guaranteed portion of his contract. It also means that the Spurs used a portion of their MLE to sign him because regular minimum deals can only be two years long.

Well, now that I think about it, not having their entire MLE could be an issue if they get in a bidding war for someone like Wilson Chandler, Kenyon Martin or JR Smith. That means the Spurs must be reasonably high on Thomas to take themselves out of full MLE bidding wars.

[GSH]

It also means that the Spurs used a portion of their MLE to sign him because regular minimum deals can only be two years long.

Well, now that I think about it, not having their entire MLE could be an issue if they get in a bidding war for someone like Wilson Chandler, Kenyon Martin or JR Smith. That means the Spurs must be reasonably high on Thomas to take themselves out of full MLE bidding wars.

That's the part I couldn't understand. Two years okay... but three? I never even considered the MLE angle.

I wondered if it meant they consider him a full-on project, that they are willing to commit to. I know the way they signed him before the showcase looked like they were afraid someone else would pick him up. But, like I said, it probably doesn't pay to read too much into ANY D-League callup.

I saw a reference to the 3 years earlier in the week, but wrote it off (sorry, can't remember where). I saw it again on RealGM this morning. Nothing to say two sources can't be mistaken, but it made me wonder.

[jjktkk]

That's the part I couldn't understand. Two years okay... but three? I never even considered the MLE angle.

I wondered if it meant they consider him a full-on project, that they are willing to commit to. I know the way they signed him before the showcase looked like they were afraid someone else would pick him up. But, like I said, it probably doesn't pay to read too much into ANY D-League callup.

I saw a reference to the 3 years earlier in the week, but wrote it off (sorry, can't remember where). I saw it again on RealGM this morning. Nothing to say two sources can't be mistaken, but it made me wonder.

If this contract is true, that shows me that RC trust his scouts on Thomas. I'm sure, because of Leonard, Spur's scouts got a lot info on Thomas as well.

[Mel_13]

One other thing on the contract possibilities. In normal years, players on non-guaranteed contracts have their deals fully guaranteed for the remainder of the season if they're still on the roster on January 10th. That's also the first date that 10 day contracts can be utilized. I believe the date for the this season is February 6th, which is also the last day that teams can dress 13 players.

Perhaps the Spurs guaranteed Thomas an amount equal to the salary from the date he was signed until February 5th. Kind of a probationary period. If he sticks past February 6th, then he gets a full year NBA salary and the Spurs get him for two more seasons on a non-guaranteed deal for minimum salary.

[GSH]

One other thing on the contract possibilities. In normal years, players on non-guaranteed contracts have their deals fully guaranteed for the remainder of the season if they're still on the roster on January 10th. That's also the first date that 10 day contracts can be utilized. I believe the date for the this season is February 6th, which is also the last day that teams can dress 13 players.

Perhaps the Spurs guaranteed Thomas an amount equal to the salary from the date he was signed until February 5th. Kind of a probationary period. If he sticks past February 6th, then he gets a full year NBA salary and the Spurs get him for two more seasons on a non-guaranteed deal for minimum salary.

I really appreciate the people here who talk basketball. Thanks.

[GSH]

Yep, it is.

All these failures show how difficult it is to turn a D-League player into a legit NBA player. Spurs haven't been able to do so despite trying very hard.

There was an interview with Anthony Mason Sr. on the D-League website about getting called up. He talks about finding the "right situation". I've always had this idea that it was like American Idol - that there are a few players out there who could have made it if they had just gotten the (right) opportunity. Maybe that's just wishful thinking on my part.

Anyway, here's part of the interview:

Mason:...Nah, they’re both talented. It’s not even about who’s got the best chance, it’s about who’s got the best situation. When I was in the CBA, you had people go up and come back, go up and come back, and you’d have somebody go up that wasn’t that good and ended up in the perfect situation and ended up sticking.

Suppose you need just a hustle guy, just a plain hustle guy, you don’t want him to score, you just want him to aggravate people. If a team needs that, that’s who’s gonna stick.

A lot of these guys that I watch, the way they play in the D-League, and they used to be guilty of it in the CBA, too, is just jacking the ball up figuring if you score 30 I’m gonna go up there. Most teams have a scorer or two or three. They want the intangibles, and that’s more valuable.

Even with my accolades and my success, All-Star and all of that, I got in on playing defense and hustling, that’s what Riley liked about me. I developed my game more when I got in there.

NBADLeague.com: When you were in the CBA, were you ever nervous that you wouldn’t get to the NBA?

Mason: I was 30 and 15, so I wasn’t even really worried about it. I wanted to go to the right situation. I got called up to Denver and came back, thank God – back then, Denver was…woooh.

But I mean I got called up in different situations, and it just wasn’t right. When I got called up to the Knicks, they had their stars in Patrick Ewing and [John] Starks and they had Oakley, but they needed other role players and forces and I fit right in.

NBADLeague.com: Have you had a chance to see any other games this week? Has anybody impressed you?

Mason: [Erie guard] D.J. Kennedy, Anthony’s old teammate from St. John’s, he’s pretty impressive. He’s playing the same kind of game he was playing at St. John’s.

One of the biggest things, too, is make it or don’t make it, but play your game. Be who you are. To me, the one thing that baffles me about the next level is some people bring people to their team and find out what they can do after they get there. If I’m a coach on that level, I wanna know this guy’s a big man that can shoot, or a small guy that can rebound. It’s not gonna be a surprise.

I tell these guys stay on your game until you end up in the right situation. A lot of guys try to conform, like, ‘OK, I’ll play careful,’ or ‘I won’t do what I usually do.’ And you usually don’t look good doing it.

[DAF86]

What do this FO have against guys that are 6'10'' or taller?

[jjktkk]

What do this FO have against guys that are 6'10'' or taller?

Most of the 6'10" or taller guys are jags. If they were half decent, NBA teams would be scooping them up.

[Darkwaters]

What do this FO have against guys that are 6'10'' or taller?

Yea, because theres a pile of 6'11 and 7'0 studs chillin' in the D-League waiting for teams to call.

You realize that the D-League is the bottom of the barrell, right? Guys that are down there are down there because they have flaws.

Sorry, Dwight Howard Jr. isn't playing for the Texas Legends.

[ace3g]

Did well in his 2:16; went for 2 weak side blks in the paint (didn't get the blks, but you can tell the kid knows when to help on defense), got a couple of boards, didn't look too lost out there. Glad his minutes on the court were with Kawhi.

[Buddy Holly]

I liked what I saw, Dude is LOOONG and get ups and made the shooter alter their shot because of his length. Plus, got two boards, one offensive, in 2 minutes.

[Darkwaters]

He was only credited with one rebound, but the statistician logged that incorrectly. He had 1 offensive and 1 defensive board.

[ElNono]

I like... I would like to see him when he's not playing against scrubs

[jeebus]

He played better than Bonner has in all his years as a Spur.

[manufan10]

I like... I would like to see him when he's not playing against scrubs

Agreed.

I was hoping the Spurs would break it open sooner so he could get more than 2 minutes. Oh well.

[ElNono]

Giving some of Matt's minutes to him is probably not fair to the team though

[Darkwaters]

He played better than Bonner has in all his years as a Spur.

Eh, Matt's had some really special games for the Spurs over the years where he lights on fire and just blows up. Unfortunately, hes been on the team a long time and those nights don't come very often - actually, there have been none recently at all.

[8FOR!3]

Maybe he'll get more playing time against Phoenix.

[jeebus]

Eh, Matt's had some really special games for the Spurs over the years where he lights on fire and just blows up. Unfortunately, hes been on the team a long time and those nights don't come very often - actually, there have been none recently at all.

True. I'll say it again though if Thomas is still on the team come playoffs and he plays defense or something for just one game...hell, one quarter. Then it'll be more true than ever.

[ChumpDumper]

Turns out "we" didn't have to draft him.

[rastaspur]

Turns out "we" didn't have to draft him.

This

[Buddy Holly]

I wonder if he practiced today, per his twitter, he had food poisoning thanks to Jack in the crack.

[dylankerouac]

I hate jack in the crack. I have gotten food poisoning 2 of the 3 times I have gone to that terrible franchise. Sucks if he was too sick to practice.

[timvp]

I wonder if he practiced today, per his twitter, he had food poisoning thanks to Jack in the crack.

Thankfully DeJuan Blair is fine after downing five Jumbacos.

[Solid D]

Thankfully DeJuan Blair is fine after downing five Jumbacos.

lol rofl

[E-RockWill]

Thankfully DeJuan Blair is fine after downing five Jumbacos.

:lmao

First "Quote of the Year" candidate, kids.

[xmas1997]

If he had food poisoning then he most probably didn't practice which also probably means Pop won't play him until he has a better grasp of the system.
It's a shame he missed the one practice he really needed to make in order to make a favorable impression on the coaches.

[SenorSpur]

If he had food poisoning then he most probably didn't practice which also probably means Pop won't play him until he has a better grasp of the system.
It's a shame he missed the one practice he really needed to make in order to make a favorable impression on the coaches.

Damn Jack in the Crack. Screw them. He should've followed Dejuan Blair to Whataburger, instead.

[Interrohater]

I hope Kawhi has already instructed him:
"don't smile, don't laugh, read and memorize the script for media sessions, just softly drop it in if you have to dunk, do not show any emotion for anything, stand at parade rest when being talked to by :::whisper::: ..Pop, And last but not least, DO NOT BECOME A FAN FAVORITE UNTIL YOU'VE ACTUALLY GOTTEN SOME REAL PLAYING TIME. You will be cut."

[xmas1997]

They were not only on the same team together, but they were also roommates in college, so my guess is Leonard is giving him lots of pointers.

[SenorSpur]

Hopefully the Spurs can develop a large enough lead where Thomas can get some extended burn. I'm anxiously looking forward to seeing what this kid has and whether he's got the goods to stick. In just a few short possessions, it was clear that he was 100 times more active than Diogu was during his short stay.

[xmas1997]

Hopefully the Spurs can develop a large enough lead where Thomas can get some extended burn. I'm anxiously looking forward to seeing what this kid has and whether he's got the goods to stick. In just a few short possessions, it was clear that he was 100 times more active than Diogu was during his short stay.

I couldn't agree with you more.:flag:

[Darkwaters]

They were not only on the same team together, but they were also roommates in college, so my guess is Leonard is giving him lots of pointers.

Really? How cool is that to go from being college roommates to members of the same pro basketball team. Thats like a sitcom plot right there or something. Just make them roommates in San Antonio and give them a little kid that they're raising, or have Malcolm's elderly father (who spits venemous bouts of dry humor) live with them too, or something similar and you're good. Thats like 2-3 seasons at least.

[ChuckD]

And by not doing so, we didnt get him involved in our system early enough to see what he can do. He is every bit as good a defender as KL. KL had alot to do with the Spurs signing him.

Hope the spurs dont give up on him to early.

Better late than never. No rookies got any kind of real indoctrination, with training camp being only two weeks. Malcolm got almost as much Spurs training camp as CoJo did.

[ChumpDumper]

And by not doing so, we didnt get him involved in our system early enough to see what he can do. He is every bit as good a defender as KL. KL had alot to do with the Spurs signing him.There was no "early" this season.

[Darkwaters]

And by not doing so, we didnt get him involved in our system early enough to see what he can do. He is every bit as good a defender as KL. KL had alot to do with the Spurs signing him.

Hope the spurs dont give up on him to early.

I agree it would have been nice to see the Spurs take a flyer on a project bigman late in the second instead of Adam Hanga. But, in the end we got both our Hungarian prospect and the undersized super-athlete big. So, everyone wins.

[ace3g]

I was at the game, no access to internet, but he wasn't on the bench tonight; any word?

[timtonymanu]

I was at the game, no access to internet, but he wasn't on the bench tonight; any word?

He had a stomach virus tonight.

[SpurCharger]

Malcolm Is definately A upgrade over Ike Diogu. I live In San Diego And Got to See alot Of The Aztecs Games Last Season. He is very Athletic, He Could Switch on the pick and role and stay in front of Guards and small forwards... He is another Player Kind of like Leonard in a sense of not scared to Do the dirty work. He will block shots, and is a Above average rebounder, and Likes To Play Defense.
Dont expect Amazing numbers from him, But he will Leave everything out on the floor.
Now all the Spurs have to Do is Sign Billy White(The other guy in the pic with Leonard and Thomas). Then We can officially Be the San Antonio Aztecs.

[Interrohater]

Anybody who watched the game, how did he do? I assume with the blowout that he got extended playing time.

[ace3g]

Good to see he is still with the team

[Darkwaters]

Former Spurs call-up, and Kawhi's teammate at SDSU, gets another chance in the NBA:


Warriors To Sign Malcolm Thomas To 10-Day Deal
Mar 08, 2013 10:42 AM EST

The Golden State Warriors will sign Malcolm Thomas to a 10-day contract.

The Warriors have two roster spots available following their cap-saving trades of Jeremy Tyler and Charles Jenkins before the deadline.

Thomas played for Maccabi Tel Aviv this season until February and recently joined the Los Angeles D-Fenders of the D-League


http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/226571/Warriors-To-Sign-Malcolm-Thomas-To-10-Day-Deal

[Pasta Batman]

I was kind of hoping Spurs would bring him in this summer, to see what work he's put in. He definitely has abilities that could give the Spurs an athletic quick big.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

what, was he available? the spurs missed out there. i think he killed it in summer league.

[Chomag]

Spurs have Baynes and he isnt even getting any playing time. This point is pretty moot I think

[TheGoldStandard]

Spurs have Baynes and he isnt even getting any playing time. This point is pretty moot I think

Yup because having a big out there that can actually play physical takes a training camp to learn.

[EricB]

Yup because having a big out there that can actually play physical takes a training camp to learn.

Spoken like someone who has zero clue of the game.

[Pasta Batman]

Spurs have Baynes and he isnt even getting any playing time. This point is pretty moot I think

Anyone expecting him to get significant play time this season was kidding themselves.

[ace3g]

After 10 day with Warriors, got another 10 days with Bulls:

http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/52731/malcolm-thomas-agreed-to-terms-with-the-bulls.html

[DapDaGenius]

After 10 day with Warriors, got another 10 days with Bulls:

http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/52731/malcolm-thomas-agreed-to-terms-with-the-bulls.html

Good to hear. I hope he gets to stick with the Bulls.

[Darkwaters]

I just hope he sticks somewhere, period. He seems like a good guy and I really do wish him the best.

If he keeps bouncing around then maybe the Spurs can invite him to Summer League and Training Camp this offseason. We'll we looking to replace Blair afterall.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

http://www.nba.com/summer-league/2012/players/sl_malcolm_thomas/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv7I9dG6SAw

summer league, training camp, free agency bargain...late season pick up? he's got system familiarity. and more potential than blair.

[spurraider21]

I just hope he sticks somewhere, period. He seems like a good guy and I really do wish him the best.

If he keeps bouncing around then maybe the Spurs can invite him to Summer League and Training Camp this offseason. We'll we looking to replace Blair afterall.

Pretty sure thats going to be Baynes' spot in the rotation next year unless he's a complete flop

[Aztecfan03]

Pretty sure thats going to be Baynes' spot in the rotation next year unless he's a complete flop

Then give him Bonner's spot. Bonner's contract is up this year right?

[spurraider21]

Then give him Bonner's spot. Bonner's contract is up this year right?

I think Bonner boils down to a 1 million dollar buyout vs paying him something like 3.5 or 3.9 mil. I don't remember the exact figure. Its better to bring over Lorbek or Bertans for Bonner's spot

[Darkwaters]

Pretty sure thats going to be Baynes' spot in the rotation next year unless he's a complete flop

I would agree. I like Baynes as our 4th big. But there is a distinct possibility that Splitter could leave in free agency and Baynes might actually move to the 3rd Bigman spot (if hes ready). Thats of course barring a signing or drafting of another bigman.

This year's bigs:
Duncan
Splitter
Diaw
Blair
Bonner
Baynes

Next Years:
Duncan
Splitter
Diaw
Baynes
Bonner
(Filler)

That filler could go a lot of ways. It could just be an empty roster spot. It could be a draft pick (maybe our 1st rounder?). Or it could be a guy like Malcolm Thomas. Who knows? But if we don't have somebody in mind for that spot, then bringing a guy like Thomas into TC would be a great idea. If hes good enough then he fills the roster spot, if he isn't then we just go short on the roster.

[Darkwaters]

Then give him Bonner's spot. Bonner's contract is up this year right?

Bonner has another year on his contract. But I don't think it's fully guaranteed. We'd have to eat some salary, but we might be able to waive him without too much issue.

This makes a lot of sense, especially since he hasn't exactly been even a marginally good player in regular season play this year...and thats where he typically shines.

[exstatic]

Bonner has another year on his contract. But I don't think it's fully guaranteed. We'd have to eat some salary, but we might be able to waive him without too much issue.

This makes a lot of sense, especially since he hasn't exactly been even a marginally good player in regular season play this year...and thats where he typically shines.

Bonner's value is as a shooter.

Career FG% .467 - 3G% .415
Season FG% .467 - 3G% .418

[spurraider21]

I would agree. I like Baynes as our 4th big. But there is a distinct possibility that Splitter could leave in free agency and Baynes might actually move to the 3rd Bigman spot (if hes ready). Thats of course barring a signing or drafting of another bigman.

This year's bigs:
Duncan
Splitter
Diaw
Blair
Bonner
Baynes

Next Years:
Duncan
Splitter
Diaw
Baynes
Bonner
(Filler)

That filler could go a lot of ways. It could just be an empty roster spot. It could be a draft pick (maybe our 1st rounder?). Or it could be a guy like Malcolm Thomas. Who knows? But if we don't have somebody in mind for that spot, then bringing a guy like Thomas into TC would be a great idea. If hes good enough then he fills the roster spot, if he isn't then we just go short on the roster.

There's no way Splitter doesn't return. I'm fairly certain they'll match whatever offer Tiago gets, probably around 11 mil per year based on market value over-inflating centers.


Bonner has another year on his contract. But I don't think it's fully guaranteed. We'd have to eat some salary, but we might be able to waive him without too much issue.

This makes a lot of sense, especially since he hasn't exactly been even a marginally good player in regular season play this year...and thats where he typically shines.

I'm not so sure Bonner comes back. He has 1 million guaranteed, but if we keep him, he's set to earn 3.95 million. We'd be better off waiving him, though he'd go unclaimed with his salary. We'd eat the 1 mil to save 2.95. So I'm thinking our rotation looks like Splitter, Duncan, Diaw, Baynes next season with, a filler. I'm also going to assume we sign somebody who can play both forward spots in the same role that Jax has. Not so certain we bring back Jax, but we'll need somebody to take his role that is a 3 who can slide to stretch 4. My best guess is that Neal leaves for a better contract than the Spurs are willing to offer, which would help clear up the muddy guard positions. I'm hoping we are able to bring in Lorbek or Bertans to take Bonner's role as the shooting big man.

[Darkwaters]

Bonner's value is as a shooter.

Career FG% .467 - 3G% .415
Season FG% .467 - 3G% .418

Almost entirely in garbage time. Have you noticed him contributing when the game was still in doubt? I know he hasn't had many opportunities, but he hasn't exactly seized the ones hes been given.

[Johnny RIngo]

Its better to bring over Lorbek or Bertans for Bonner's spot

Isn't Lorbek locked up in Europe? I think he made it pretty obvious last year he has no interest in playing in the NBA.

[Fabbs]

Bonner's value is as a shooter.

Career FG% .467 - 3G% .415
Season FG% .467 - 3G% .418
Defense, rebounding, assists.
You know, basketball.

[TheGoldStandard]

I think it would be in our best interest to cut Bonner, eat the 1 Mil and save in the long run. We can flirt with the idea of bringing over Hanga and Bertans in the offseason but I'm not sure what there contract status is. Baynes will get the 4th big, Diaw will remain, Jax will probably come back or resign for a vet minimum. Neal is probably gone but that's okay because we have a plethora of guards, manu will resign for a discount, we'll have some cash to play with.

[exstatic]

Almost entirely in garbage time. Have you noticed him contributing when the game was still in doubt? I know he hasn't had many opportunities, but he hasn't exactly seized the ones hes been given.

Read the bolded part of the post I quoted.

[exstatic]

Defense, rebounding, assists.
You know, basketball.

Read the first sentence of the post you quoted.

[Fabbs]

Ok, i read it. ^