Grades: Spurs @ Magic - Jan. 18

[timvp]

In a battle of attrition, the Spurs won their first road game of the season by defeating the Magic in overtime by a final score of 85-83. With both teams playing with heavy legs, penetration was rare, running was unexpected and shooting was abysmal. Thankfully, the Spurs did just enough at the end to get the win.

On paper, it looks like this was a defensive victory for San Antonio, as they held Orlando to 33.3% shooting. However, the truth is the Magic missed a ton of open shots. The Spurs deserve some credit -- just not a whole lot.

That said, I like how hard they played and their overall focus. And with as poorly as the Spurs have performed on the road to date, any success on the road is appreciated.

http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/7393/boxjan18.jpg

Tim Duncan B+
Things weren't always easy for Tim Duncan. He had trouble creating shots for himself or others. Rebounds were often hard to come by. Duncan even had trouble getting up and down the court at times. But in terms of effort and toughness, he was fantastic. He fought Dwight Howard all night and didn't give up an inch. He's not as good as he used to be but Duncan was a warrior tonight. He earned this win as much as any player on the team.

Tony Parker A-
In the first quarter, Tony Parker did next to nothing. In the middle two quarters, he remained quiet. However, the fourth quarter came and Parker put the team on his back. His offensive prowess kept the Spurs afloat; without him, this was another blowout loss. He seemed to wear down a bit late but, all in all, he did just about everything he could. Defensively, I thought he had one of his best games of the year and he even pulled down a few contested defensive boards.

Richard Jefferson D+
I wasn't too thrilled with the way Richard Jefferson play. He lacked hustle and appeared content to expend the minimum amount of energy possible. The Magic missed 58 shots yet Jefferson managed to pull down only one board in 38 minutes. On offense, he remained silent for most of the night until a key floater in the lane in overtime. Needless to say, the Spurs need more out of Jefferson.

DeJuan Blair B-
DeJuan Blair continues to do a great job finishing around the basket. In his last seven games, he's shooting 61.8% from the floor. Against the Magic, I thought his defensive play was surprisingly solid, however his lack of boxing out played a big part in Orlando grabbing 18 offensive rebounds.

Kawhi Leonard C+
The rookie looked fatigued for much of the night. To begin things, Kawhi Leonard was invisible. He eventually picked up his intensity but he never made a major impact on the game. The most notably aspect of his evening was when he was switched onto Jameer Nelson defensively. It was the first time we've seen Leonard defend a point guard. It'll be interesting to see if we see more of that going forward.

Danny Green B-
It was an odd night for Danny Green. Less than 24 hours after hitting 6-of-7 threes against the Heat, Green couldn't buy a shot. Many of his five misses from deep were wide open. That said, he made a few big plays with his passing off the dribble and he ran the court well. Defensively, I was mostly satisfied with his mixture of aggression and smarts (other than, of course, that Ginobili-esque foul on a layup late in the fourth when the Spurs were up three points). When he plays hard yet stays within the team framework, he's a valuable player -- as evident by the 38 minutes he played tonight despite not hitting a shot all night.

Gary Neal C+
Speaking of not hitting a shot all night, Gary Neal was in Green's boat. And then, with 28 seconds remaining in overtime, Neal drained a three-pointer off of a down screen. He showed no fear in taking and making the biggest shot of the game. Defensively, while he still wasn't anything to write home about, I thought it was by far Neal's best outing of the season.

Matt Bonner D+
I'm not exactly sure how Matt Bonner ended up playing 20 minutes. He had a few moments of competence here and there, but he was usually a liability. He wasn't spreading the court, wasn't doing anything special on defense and was horrible on the glass.

Tiago Splitter A-
On the other end of the spectrum, I definitely disagree with Tiago Splitter only playing 18 minutes. During his time on the court, especially in his first stint, he was pretty damn dominant. The Magic couldn't stop him on the low block and he was extremely active on defense. There's not much else to say other than to reiterate that Splitter deserves more minutes.

Cory Joseph B-
In the first half, Cory Joseph wasn't very good; Pop couldn't wait to get Parker back in the game. In the second half, Joseph was better. After hitting an outside shot, he showed a lot more confidence on both ends.

Pop D
I can't explain what Pop was thinking this game. Bonner playing more than Splitter is the ultimate headscratcher. Pop almost torpedoed San Antonio's chances by failing to give Parker an appropriate amount of rest. Going small when the Spurs couldn't keep Howard off the glass was risky, to say the least. And even though a few of them worked, I wasn't too thrilled with the plays the team ran following late timeouts. The win was good to see but I don't give any of the credit to Pop tonight.

[ferg]

Did bonner at lest move his fkn feet this game or are they still nailed to the floor like they were against mia and phx?

[Nathan89]

If Pop doesn't think Splitter should play more minutes then I don't want Pop as the Spurs coach anymore.

Fuck Pop.

[WeNeedLength]

While everyone is writing to congress about that SOPA bill, all Spurs fans need to acquire Pop's e-mail, cell #, and home address and let him have it regarding the Bonner/Splitter situation. I would definitely write to him expressing my frustration.

[FkLA]

Josephs grade seems a bit high, maybe its the low expectations but hes pretty much a game manager out there. He doesnt even try to look for his shot unless he absolutely has to...he looks like a younger Vaughn at times tbh.

[ElNono]

Solid grades.. I would've given Leonard a few more points though. He wasn't spectacular, but he did have a couple of key plays (like a block on Nelson and that dunk in the lane from yet another really good cut).

[Nathan89]

While everyone is writing to congress about that SOPA bill, all Spurs fans need to acquire Pop's e-mail, cell #, and home address and let him have it regarding the Bonner/Splitter situation. I would definitely write to him expressing my frustration.

Someone should start a "Stop Pop" thread.

[Redshadows]

The front-court of the Spurs is weak especially its defense. And Pop just still sticked to Bonner over Splitter even when Bonner kept missing 3ptrs and sucked on defense. I don't get it.

[DPG21920]

As an aside Reggie Evans is a beast on the boards :wow

[dbestpro]

I continue to disagree with the scores for Blair. He's getting some points, but he gives up a ton more than he gets. Whenever he was on the floor Orlando would go right at him. He right now is not better than Bonner on defense and maybe even worse.

His rebounding is abysmal. The rebound where ANderson just reached over Blair's head to grab arebound was imbarrassing. There is a reason Pop pulled him for most of crunch time. Blair gets a D+, because he still does not give this team what it needs, which is defense and rebounds.

[Mugen]

The only reason I can think of is that Pop thinks Tiago is injury prone. He had some nagging injuries last year and during NT play in the summer.

Maybe he's saving him his body during a rigorous season since the only way Bonner can get hurt is if somebody dunks the ball too hard on his face.

I'm grasping for straws because there is absolutely no logical reason why this is still an issue this season. Tiago should be an automatic 25-30 mins a night.

[Redshadows]

MIAMI — Though Spurs coach Gregg Popovich can’t yet name the time or the place, Tim Duncan could be due for a day off soon.
http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2012/01/17/tough-stretch-to-bring-rest-for-duncan/

Hopefully next game against the Kings, Pop would sit Duncan and Parker. They both played so much that they need a rest.

[Cane]

Two back to back gut wrenching games and for different reasons.

Parker and Duncan gave a vintage performance. Splitter was a beast when Dwight was sidelined.

The Magic really could've used Marcin Gortat, Splitter just abused the Magic's "frontcourt depth". Good god, how the hell does Otis Smith still have a job as a GM???


The only reason I can think of is that Pop thinks Tiago is injury prone. He had some nagging injuries last year and during NT play in the summer.

Maybe he's saving him his body during a rigorous season since the only way Bonner can get hurt is if somebody dunks the ball too hard on his face.

I'm grasping for straws because there is absolutely no logical reason why this is still an issue this season. Tiago should be an automatic 25-30 mins a night.

Maybe he wants to save Splitter in case of foul trouble too, but yea more Splitter would be good.

[MaNu4Tres]

This Splitter/Bonner situation is laughable and has been the past year or so.

Kudos to Pop :tu

[Cane]

Hopefully next game against the Kings, Pop would sit Duncan and Parker. They both played so much that they need a rest.

Wasn't Duncan hobbling after the 4th? Looked like he pointed at his knee :depressed

[Nathan89]

Pop is a strong supporter of the +/- stat. Therefore he plays "the king of +/-" aka "the red rocket" aka " the sandwich hunter" aka "matt bonner".

[timvp]

Pop is a strong supporter of the +/- stat. PJ was the big plus/minus stat guy. I'm not sure if Pop even knows what that means.

[Nathan89]

PJ was the big plus/minus stat guy. I'm not sure if Pop even knows what that means.

Only logical reason, tbh.

[jmanu20]

Two back to back gut wrenching games and for different reasons.

Parker and Duncan gave a vintage performance. Splitter was a beast when Dwight was sidelined.

The Magic really could've used Marcin Gortat, Splitter just abused the Magic's "frontcourt depth". Good god, how the hell does Otis Smith still have a job as a GM???



Maybe he wants to save Splitter in case of foul trouble too, but yea more Splitter would be good.


For the same inexplicable reasons that Danny Ainge still does, I imagine.

[SA210]

If Pop doesn't think Splitter should play more minutes then I don't want Pop as the Spurs coach anymore.

Fuck Pop.

[TimmehC]

PJ was the big plus/minus stat guy. I'm not sure if Pop even knows what that means.

If RJ and Bonner get more minutes than Leonard/Splitter next game, you have your answer.

[Kori Ellis]

Pop still thinks Splitter is a pansy from getting hurt in training camp (or being hurt going into it) of last year. I think that's why he treats him like he can't play more than 20 minutes or so. It's a stupid grudge, and it's going to end up being really damaging to the Spurs. The only way to tell if he's a pansy, is to make him play 35 minutes and see if he falls apart. Pop should try it for a few games.

[SenorSpur]

Pop still thinks Splitter is a pansy from getting hurt in training camp (or being hurt going into it) of last year. I think that's why he treats him like he can't play more than 20 minutes or so. It's a stupid grudge, and it's going to end up being really damaging to the Spurs. The only way to tell if he's a pansy, is to make him play 35 minutes and see if he falls apart. Pop should try it for a few games.

If this is true, it's hard to believe that a professional coach, especially one as respected as Pop is, would resort to such junior-high school-level antics. Splitter was the most effective bigman for the Spurs during most of his time on the court. There is absolutely no reason to deny the team Splitter's production. Pop has to know that he's hurting the team by keeping him chained to the bench. If Pop is truly holding onto such a stupid grudge against Splitter, then he is a big ol' hypocrite and perhaps it is HE, who needs to "get over himself".

[Spur|n|Austin]

I usually find my myself yelling at different spurs through the tv most nights but tonight all I could do was yell at Pop. A headscratcher is a good way of putting it, I cannot understand how Bonner is getting minutes over Splitter after the dominant start Tiago had. The only thing I can think of is an uber attempt to somehow raise Bonners trade value haha; or as Kori said, a grudge. Coach needs to grow up if that's the case, but this is getting ridiculous. FREE SPLITTER!!

[silverblk mystix]

I usually find my myself yelling at different spurs through the tv most nights but tonight all I could do was yell at Pop. A headscratcher is a good way of putting it, I cannot understand how Bonner is getting minutes over Splitter after the dominant start Tiago had. The only thing I can think of is an uber attempt to somehow raise Bonners trade value haha; or as Kori said, a grudge. Coach needs to grow up if that's the case, but this is getting ridiculous. FREE SPLITTER!!

The biggest problem with all this is that this was also the same shit he did ALL LAST SEASON!!!!!


And everyone made excuses for Pop...saying that Splitter is injury prone...Splitter is a rookie....Splitter will learn the offense his 2nd year...Bonner is OK for 5-10 minutes....blah-fuckin'-blah....

Same shit...another season in the shitter....

FUCK POP....


I want that fuckhead gone...

[SenorSpur]

If anything Pop should hold a grudge against Bonner for the myriad of missed defensive rotations that has become routine with him.

[Keepin' it real]

Yeah, and I'm sure the fans who have already paid money to watch the game in person on Friday would be thrilled to learn that the two best Spurs are not gonna play.

When a team chooses to hold out uninjured players, they should offer full or partial refunds, or at a minimum, provide free food and drink to the thousands of loyal fans who support the team -- not from their couch or computer -- but inside the arena ... a.k.a. with their pocketbooks.


Hopefully next game against the Kings, Pop would sit Duncan and Parker. They both played so much that they need a rest.

[angelbelow]

The one thing that was holding Splitter back earlier this season was his hesitation on offense. He was weak, indecisive, slow...

However, hes really turned it around in the last 10 games or so. The 3rd quarter against portland will probably stand out the most. But now Splitter is being physical and confident when getting the ball in the post. Hes shooting 58% from the field and 71% from the FT line. I see no real reason not to play him 25 minutes a game when hes capable on the offensive end and I guess I should mention, if anyone cares, that hes one of our best defensive bigs right now.

[Obstructed_View]

The one thing that was holding Splitter back earlier this season was his hesitation on offense. He was weak, indecisive, slow...

...and better than Matt Bonner has ever been since he's been a Spur.

[HarlemHeat37]

I'd go even further, and say that Splitter is the 2nd best overall defensive player on the roster, tbh..

Actually, considering his newfound ability as a shot-blocker, to compliment his mobility, he's probably the best overall defender on the team, at the moment..

[LakerHater]

Tiago Splitter A-
On the other end of the spectrum, I definitely disagree with Tiago Splitter only playing 18 minutes. During his time on the court, especially in his first stint, he was pretty damn dominant. The Magic couldn't stop him on the low block and he was extremely active on defense. There's not much else to say other than to reiterate that Splitter deserves more minute.
LOVED his up & under.... Pop needed to give him more mins!

[Obstructed_View]

I'd go even further, and say that Splitter is the 2nd best overall defensive player on the roster, tbh..


This might sound like sacrilege, but who's first?

[angelbelow]

...and better than Matt Bonner has ever been since he's been a Spur.

Plus, he flashed quite a bit of potential in the midst of his sucking. Despite being soft, he displayed nice passing skills and smart offensive. He also showed off a variety of post moves (which weren't going in because he was playing soft.) So I always felt that he just wasn't confident/in shape/used to the physicality etc etc but once he figured "it" out he would be more than capable on offense. Looks like that is in fact the case.

[therealtruth]

I'd go even further, and say that Splitter is the 2nd best overall defensive player on the roster, tbh..

Actually, considering his newfound ability as a shot-blocker, to compliment his mobility, he's probably the best overall defender on the team, at the moment..

Exactly why he has to start. His defense is wasted on bench scrubs. He and TD are the only chance the Spurs have of defending the elite frontcourts in the league. The Spurs have the advantage on the perimeter with TP and Manu but they waste that advantage when they have to cover for Bonner/Blair.

[timvp]

I was wondering how much longer Obstructed_View was going to be able to bite his tongue regarding the Bonner/Splitter situation . . .

:toast

[therealtruth]

Plus, he flashed quite a bit of potential in the midst of his sucking. Despite being soft, he displayed nice passing skills and smart offensive. He also showed off a variety of post moves (which weren't going in because he was playing soft.) So I always felt that he just wasn't confident/in shape/used to the physicality etc etc but once he figured "it" out he would be more than capable on offense. Looks like that is in fact the case.

I had no doubt he would get better on offense. He's a smart player. Now he's making Pop look like an idiot. Another advantage of him playing with TD is the Spurs can punish teams that want to play small ball or weak frontcourt defenders. Blair's not great at drawing fouls and Bonner can't draw fouls by shooting 3's.

[objective]

Playing Splitter wouldn't be fair the team, guys.

Focus on the positives. Like how we still have Bonner and Jefferson locked up and soaking up a lot of minutes.

They are Spurs basketball.

[objective]

And hopefully Kawhi Leonard can get over his South Beach Flu. He's been fighting through screens like Roger Mason and that's not good.

[angelbelow]

I had no doubt he would get better on offense. He's a smart player. Now he's making Pop look like an idiot. Another advantage of him playing with TD is the Spurs can punish teams that want to play small ball or weak frontcourt defenders. Blair's not great at drawing fouls and Bonner can't draw fouls by shooting 3's.

But it still creates the colossal problem of having to play Blair and Bonner at the same time. Unless Pop creates a clever rotation that features the available minutes between the 4/5 split between Duncan, Splitter and Blair, there's no other way to make it work. It's almost as if all the potential positives that Splitter and Duncan bring to table will inevitably be un-done in devastating fashion when the Blair/Bonner duo take over.

It really sucks that we don't have Mcdyess or that this isn't the 2010-2011 season..

[objective]

But it still creates the colossal problem of having to play Blair and Bonner at the same time. Unless Pop creates a clever rotation that features the available minutes between the 4/5 split between Duncan, Splitter and Blair, there's no other way to make it work. It's almost as if all the potential positives that Splitter and Duncan bring to table will inevitably be un-done in devastating fashion when the Blair/Bonner duo take over.

It really sucks that we don't have Mcdyess or that this isn't the 2010-2011 season..

If McDyess was here Splitter would be getting zero minutes. And then the SA lapdog media would be insisting that Splitter was ill with Ebola or someother nonsense while insisting that Bonner was the secret weapon and why the Spurs would win the western conference.

The likely sucktitude of rare minutes of a Bonner/Blair combo doesn't outweigh the positives of playing Splitter more and as a starter to help the team start games well with their best players playing.

[mystargtr34]

I'd go even further, and say that Splitter is the 2nd best overall defensive player on the roster, tbh..

Actually, considering his newfound ability as a shot-blocker, to compliment his mobility, he's probably the best overall defender on the team, at the moment..

God damn that was hard to click on 'Quote' while covering my eyes from your sig :lol.. I've made the point a couple of times that Tiago has quietly become the Spurs best defender.

1. Splitter
2. Duncan
3. Leonard
4. Manu

Those are the top 4 imo..Leonard and Tiago are clearly the two best man-to-man defenders.. Tim is the best rim protector (although you could argue Tiago is at least his equal now) but Tiago .. when you combine one-one-one defense.. pick and roll coverage.. and protecting the rim.. is the best defender. He's basically a Tyson Chandler/Kevin Garnett lite. Its pretty uncommon for a long 6'11 guy to move his feet aswell as he does + have great defensive instincts + great rotations + great timing on blocked shots.

Its kind of scary how much improvement he has made this season on both ends.. its just a shame Pop is holding the team back by playing him 20 minutes a night.

[angelbelow]

If McDyess was here Splitter would be getting zero minutes. And then the SA lapdog media would be insisting that Splitter was ill with Ebola or someother nonsense while insisting that Bonner was the secret weapon and why the Spurs would win the western conference.

The likely sucktitude of rare minutes of a Bonner/Blair combo doesn't outweigh the positives of playing Splitter more and as a starter to help the team start games well with their best players playing.

If that did actually happen I probably wouldn't be following basketball at all this season. I was already so demoralized during the playoffs that I didn't bother watching games 5 and 6. I didn't pay much attention (I did watch the draft though) until the preseason (couldn't help but feel excited that basketball was back) and started following super closely again.

If Duncan and Splitter started together and wound up spending a lot of time on the court together, Bonner+Blair combo wouldn't be rare. That's my main concern with the concept right now. Even then.. I'm for giving it a shot.

[DrSteffo]

Why can't you start Duncan and Splitter, sub Blair for Splitter, Splitter for Duncan, Bonner for Blair, Duncan for Splitter? There is no rule that the bench players has to play together! If the best players get 30 minutes there is no need for that. Also, when we go small there is no need for Bonner or Blair and one of Duncan/Splitter gets some rest.

I don't really care who starts but there is no excuse not to give Splitter more minutes except if he is injured or in bad shape (which doesn't seem to be the case). Pop has decided Spurs should be a 3 pt shooting team with average to bad defense and he just loves Bonner.

[mystargtr34]

Another thing.. Splitter is basically a PF.. he's just used as a backup C because of the trash the Spurs have at PF in Blair and Bonner. Thats what makes him a really good fit next to Duncan who at this point is a C in every sense of the word. If you play the two together.. you take a huge burden off Tim and allow him to concentrate on guarding the C and staying closer to the rim where hes most effective defensively. Let Splitter use his length and quick feet to guard the 4's.

Thinking towards the playoffs.. i wont know what to do with myself if the Spurs end up in a series with the Grizzlies again, or the Mavs, or the Lakers, or the Clippers, or the Blazers and guys like Randolph, Dirk, Gasol, Griffin, Aldridge all start going off on Blair and then Pop panicks again and thrusts Splitter into the starting lineup when the team is down 2-0 or 3-1. I honestly wouldnt put it past him.. i thought he learnt his lesson from last season, but it looks like he hasnt.

You cant bring your best defender off the bench while the best players on the other team are going off in the first quarter and setting themselves up for a huge game.

[mystargtr34]

dp.

[mystargtr34]

If that did actually happen I probably wouldn't be following basketball at all this season. I was already so demoralized during the playoffs that I didn't bother watching games 5 and 6. I didn't pay much attention (I did watch the draft though) until the preseason (couldn't help but feel excited that basketball was back) and started following super closely again.

If Duncan and Splitter started together and wound up spending a lot of time on the court together, Bonner+Blair combo wouldn't be rare. That's my main concern with the concept right now. Even then.. I'm for giving it a shot.

Thats a valid concern, but stating the obvious..thats why you have a bench. They would be playing against other bench players who cant exploit their defensive shortcomings as much. Its not ideal.. but i would rather the Darrel Arthurs' and Josh McRoberts' of the worlds getting a couple of extra buckets than Zach Randolph and Pau Gasol having a field day early and then often.

[Redshadows]

Yeah, and I'm sure the fans who have already paid money to watch the game in person on Friday would be thrilled to learn that the two best Spurs are not gonna play.

When a team chooses to hold out uninjured players, they should offer full or partial refunds, or at a minimum, provide free food and drink to the thousands of loyal fans who support the team -- not from their couch or computer -- but inside the arena ... a.k.a. with their pocketbooks.
Haha, maybe RC would ask the big three to dance during the half.:lol

[z0sa]

I think it's obvious to everyone at this point, including 4-time champion and one of the best to do it ever, Gregg Popovich, that Splitter deserves and needs more minutes. Additionally, he truly is better than Bonner will ever be and has ever been at everything but shooting the basketball.

HOWEVER

I am trusting in His Holiness of the Church of Popovich, Coach Pop, and in doing so, wonder what logical reasoning backs his limiting Splitter's minutes.

A few possibilities spring to mind. Some could be true, or none, or others, or maybe all, I really don't know.

One, Pop could be saving Splitter for the play-offs. Although the roster is already injury ridden in this early season and lacking capable big men as a whole, Pop truly may still believe there's hope for this Spurs squad winning a title if Splitter, chief among others, is healthy and capably steps up his game in the postseason. Tiring Splitter out early, or him suffering an injury, or worse - such as having him hit some sort of unpredicted "wall" mid way though the season and lose his confidence in Pop's barking - could all spell disaster for the Spurs. The Spurs have a tough road ahead without Manu and delicate management of the situationals is obviously quite important.

Two, Pop could be simply worried about the big man rotation and is overplaying Bonner to compensate. From the most logical standpoint, an injury to Bonner would be the best possible scenario out of all four primary big men being injured. For example, Blair's offense is needed and his learning needs continue; Bonner, on the other hand, won't be getting any better any time soon. In fact, with every passing day it has become clear that he is worse. Ultimately, Pop's conservative rotations regarding Splitter could leave the rotation feeling decently fresh come playoff time without a major move. Considering the circumstances, this scenario is quite possible.

Third, Pop could be exerting his influence as a coach on Splitter. Not in a bad way, just in a way that lets Splitter know whose boss, and what he must continue doing to earn meaningful minutes often. Pop and the Spurs organization in general has proven stubborn in its mandates, especially concerning a player's general respect for the coaches, fellow players, and especially townsfolk. Splitter seems like a great guy but we don't know exactly what goes on in the background, and Pop's actions may be reflecting unknown events in the locker room and beyond.

[analyzed]

The only thing that makes Pop's rotation (not playing Tim w/ Tiago) make sense, and I hoping is the case. Is rotation is simply to manage the situation we are in , regular season in compressed season, back to back. By not playing Tiago and Tim together you can keep both relative fresh and manage their minutes.

The only other thing I could think off , is Pop wanted to matchup with Anderson a stretch 4. So bonner was in , while rotating Timmy and Tiago on Howard , to keep both fresh

[Bruno]

I guess people worried that Parker has lost a step earlier this season can now be reassured after his last few games.


Hopefully next game against the Kings, Pop would sit Duncan and Parker. They both played so much that they need a rest.

It's likely to be one of the game of the next b2b vs Sacramento and @ Houston.

The safe way would to play Duncan against Kings and then tank the game at Houston by resting Duncan, Parker and co.
The confident way would to try to win against Sacramento without Duncan and then trying to win the game against Houston with the full squad.

I rather go with the safe way. Splitting the next b2b is fine and It will alow to give some rest to other players.

[urunobili]

Too tough on Kawhi. I thought he dried Nelson TBH. He had a horrible night and someone has to be made accountable for that :smokin:

[iManu]

Richard Jefferson, How this game really could have went:

Should have been an over and back instead of a foul = Spurs Lose.

Can only hit 1 of 2, anyway (on the GIFT.)

1 rebound.

38 minutes.

Richard Jefferson with another F.

We'd all be screaming for his deer-in-headlights head rather than complacent with the W.

:hang

[TJastal]

I think it's obvious to everyone at this point, including 4-time champion and one of the best to do it ever, Gregg Popovich, that Splitter deserves and needs more minutes. Additionally, he truly is better than Bonner will ever be and has ever been at everything but shooting the basketball.

HOWEVER

I am trusting in His Holiness of the Church of Popovich, Coach Pop, and in doing so, wonder what logical reasoning backs his limiting Splitter's minutes.

A few possibilities spring to mind. Some could be true, or none, or others, or maybe all, I really don't know.

One, Pop could be saving Splitter for the play-offs. Although the roster is already injury ridden in this early season and lacking capable big men as a whole, Pop truly may still believe there's hope for this Spurs squad winning a title if Splitter, chief among others, is healthy and capably steps up his game in the postseason. Tiring Splitter out early, or him suffering an injury, or worse - such as having him hit some sort of unpredicted "wall" mid way though the season and lose his confidence in Pop's barking - could all spell disaster for the Spurs. The Spurs have a tough road ahead without Manu and delicate management of the situationals is obviously quite important.

Two, Pop could be simply worried about the big man rotation and is overplaying Bonner to compensate. From the most logical standpoint, an injury to Bonner would be the best possible scenario out of all four primary big men being injured. For example, Blair's offense is needed and his learning needs continue; Bonner, on the other hand, won't be getting any better any time soon. In fact, with every passing day it has become clear that he is worse. Ultimately, Pop's conservative rotations regarding Splitter could leave the rotation feeling decently fresh come playoff time without a major move. Considering the circumstances, this scenario is quite possible.

Third, Pop could be exerting his influence as a coach on Splitter. Not in a bad way, just in a way that lets Splitter know whose boss, and what he must continue doing to earn meaningful minutes often. Pop and the Spurs organization in general has proven stubborn in its mandates, especially concerning a player's general respect for the coaches, fellow players, and especially townsfolk. Splitter seems like a great guy but we don't know exactly what goes on in the background, and Pop's actions may be reflecting unknown events in the locker room and beyond.

Bottom line is Splitter needs to be on the court more than Matt Bonner starting like last year. And in the starting lineup. The fact that Pop is still playing stupid little games is only hurting the team now which makes every one of your lame excuses moot.

[dunkman]

The great thing is that the Spurs finally won a road game, well in overtime. The bad is the situation with RJ is hard to explain. He should be driving more often, also get some rebounds.

[acoelho1]

What bothers me the most about Splitter's minutes is that Pop is hurting his development. He needs the extra time on the court to learn all the nuances of the NBA game. It's not like he has been in the league for 5 yrs or something.

Also, the argument that Duncan and Splitter cant start together makes no sense. Sure Blair and possibly Bonner will be the first off the bench but they will be playing against the other teams backups. I rather have Blair going against a backup center or PF than a starter.

[GrandeDavid]

Pop might be on the decline and borderline mentally checked out as a coach. He cannot get the maximum out of his players anymore. His mismanagement of Tiago Splitter is atrocious.

[manufan10]

CIA Pop.. just trying to hurt Bonner. :hat

[Manufan909]

Hey timvp, is it sad that the Spurs eked out a win against a team played the last game of a b2b2b? I know it was the Spurs' 8th game in 12 nights, but still. Like you, I also blame this close win on Pop though, Tiago could have gone for 30 min and probably recorded another double double (I was pissed that at one point Bonner was subbed in before Tiago, but Tiago had to sub out when Tim and Dwight came into the game), and throwing in a 100% charged Thomas against a Magic team that was running on fumes for 5-10 min would have made a hell of a lot of sense, imo.

Secondly, is Leonard maybe hitting a bit of a rookie wall? Idk if you'd call it that, but he has averaged over 30 min since he started I believe (can you target basketball reference for specific stretches of the season?). It's a good thing Green, RJ, and Tony are all smalls who can soak up big minutes right now. If Green continues to play this much, when he has a mini-breakdown JA better not strikeout. He won't have any chances to prove himself once the team is healthy.

[Manufan909]

Bottom line is Splitter needs to be on the court more than Matt Bonner starting like last year. And in the starting lineup. The fact that Pop is still playing stupid little games is only hurting the team now which makes every one of your lame excuses moot.

I thought you'd at least give props for the Bonner injury scenario.:lol



I'd go even further, and say that Splitter is the 2nd best overall defensive player on the roster, tbh..

Actually, considering his newfound ability as a shot-blocker, to compliment his mobility, he's probably the best overall defender on the team, at the moment..
He does have as many blocks as Duncan in 108 less minutes.:tu

[TJastal]

I thought you'd at least give props for the Bonner injury scenario.:lol



He does have as many blocks as Duncan in 108 less minutes.:tu

Tbh, the spurs can't afford any more injuries to their frontcourt depth. And since Bonner's knee is bothering him, it's just stupid for Pop to be playing him more than 10 minutes a game (or at all, really he should be resting on the bench).

I used to think Pop had a single meandering artery of common sense flowing up to his brain, just took awhile for the blood to get up there but now I've come to the conclusion that Pop is just a complete and utter imbecile.

[Josepatches_]

What bothers me the most about Splitter's minutes is that Pop is hurting his development. He needs the extra time on the court to learn all the nuances of the NBA game. It's not like he has been in the league for 5 yrs or something.



True.It will hurt his confidence.Last year was a lost year for him.Now he's playing but he's the four big.When he's on the court he tries to do a lot to earn more minutes but that's not the better way...turnovers,bad shots....

It's a shame but Pop is Pop.

[Manufan909]

Tbh, the spurs can't afford any more injuries to their frontcourt depth. And since Bonner's knee is bothering him, it's just stupid for Pop to be playing him more than 10 minutes a game (or at all, really he should be resting on the bench).

I used to think Pop had a single meandering artery of common sense flowing up to his brain, just took awhile for the blood to get up there but now I've come to the conclusion that Pop is just a complete and utter imbecile.

You have at least to give him props for how he's handled the Leonard and Green situations (I admit he hasn't had much choice with Manu injured, but Neal could have conceivably received the Matty B treatment). I hate the Bonner PT situation just as much as you do (haven't reached the breaking point like you though, no offense), but at least Pop is doing a hell of a lot of good with the smalls rotation.

My one complaint there would be that Green AND Leonard need to start, and have RJ as the Spurs 6th man for the rest of the season, with Manu fighting him for that label if Pop keeps the youngins in the SL all year. Once TJ is back I'm fine with Manu as a starter, but if Manu is back first, the 2nd unit needs a ball handler more than anything else, even (no flaming please) Tiago in the starting lineup.

Like someone said on one of the first two pages of this thread, Tiago starting is possible with a low amount of the infamous Blair/Bonner combination. Tiago would have to average over 30 min a game, and Tim would have to be subbed out early so he could replace Tiago in the 2nd/4th quarter at around the 11:00 min mark (not sure if Tiago can play 2 13 min stretches a game, but I could be underestimating him). I wonder if this has ever come to Pop's attention, or his staff might not offer the suggestion because it would be like trying to represent an argument for segregation to MLK.:bang

The other option would be to have Leonard/Joseph/Green on the court whenever the turd towers are. I know that would suck for Neal, but if Neal has to lose PT for Splitter to gain PT, I'm all for it. Only Leonard and Green's PT are more valuable than the Brazilian imo, especially now with the :bking out.

P.S. Has anyone noticed how often Splitter has utilized the waist-as-a-starting-point hook shot from the Portland game til last night? He seems to be using his height now, in the Portland game especially he feasted on Batum and Wallace, and last night he feasted on Davis and (possibly) Anderson. Blair might get more attention on O because he's at much more of a disadvantage physically, has shown so much improvement, and is less experienced with pro bball than Splitter, but Splitter has the higher FG% atm. Not to take away anything away from Blair, but this season his only bright spot is scoring, which sadly might be needed more than his rebounding of the past two years with Splitter/Green/Kawhi combining to average over 40 mpg.

P.P.S. How does basketballreference work? I can't find current stats, and when I search for Leonard in the search engine, he's nowhere to be found. I thought timvp used that site for all his player specific stat threads recently, but I could be wrong.

P.P.P.S. Whoever replies to this, if you would be so kind as to reply to most/all of my post, that would be fantastic. No need for multi-quoting, just don't zero in on one or two paragraphs please.:toast Also, if you're reading this sentence, then I :worthy: to you.

[Manufan909]

True.It will hurt his confidence.Last year was a lost year for him.Now he's playing but he's the four big.When he's on the court he tries to do a lot to earn more minutes but that's not the better way...turnovers,bad shots....

It's a shame but Pop is Pop.

Idk what games you are watching, but Splitter doesn't seem to force anything tbh, and he's the 3rd big minutes-wise. I'd rather 10 of Bonner's minutes go to Splitter once the season is over, but I'll be realistic and just hope that Tiago will have averaged 25 min somehow once this pathetic excuse of an NBA season is done with. The optimistic part of me hopes he starts more than any big not numbered 21 in the playoffs.
:flag:

[TD 21]

Hopefully next game against the Kings, Pop would sit Duncan and Parker. They both played so much that they need a rest.

Absolutely not. With the state this team is currently in, they need to win the games they're supposed to. And coming off a day off, at home, against probably the worst and definitely the most dysfunctional team in the West, more than qualifies as a game they're supposed to win.

He not only shouldn't even consider resting them, he should do the opposite and play them as many minutes as necessary to insure victory. If they don't have it the next night against the Rockets, pull them early and keep them stapled to the bench for the remainder of the game.

A loss isn't the worst case scenario, a loss in which the key players play major minutes is. They can't afford to attempt to have their cake and eat it too right now.


Pop still thinks Splitter is a pansy from getting hurt in training camp (or being hurt going into it) of last year. I think that's why he treats him like he can't play more than 20 minutes or so. It's a stupid grudge, and it's going to end up being really damaging to the Spurs. The only way to tell if he's a pansy, is to make him play 35 minutes and see if he falls apart. Pop should try it for a few games.

I don't know if it's that, I think it's more so his aversion to playing anyone over 6-7 major minutes. Occasionally, he'll relent and have Duncan do so, out of necessity more than anything, but anyone else, he just refuses to do it. Not that the Spurs have had a big besides Duncan who consistently deserved major minutes since Robinson, but even when another big was having a strong game or a strong stretch of games, he'd still manage their minutes, as if they'd die if they had to play 35 minutes the odd game or 25 mpg period. There's no reason Splitter shouldn't be playing at least that much on this team. That he's not is flat out insanity.

[Maddog]

Hey timvp, is it sad that the Spurs eked out a win against a team played the last game of a b2b2b? I know it was the Spurs' 8th game in 12 nights, but still. Like you, I also blame this close win on Pop though, Tiago could have gone for 30 min and probably recorded another double double (I was pissed that at one point Bonner was subbed in before Tiago, but Tiago had to sub out when Tim and Dwight came into the game), and throwing in a 100% charged Thomas against a Magic team that was running on fumes for 5-10 min would have made a hell of a lot of sense, imo.

Secondly, is Leonard maybe hitting a bit of a rookie wall? Idk if you'd call it that, but he has averaged over 30 min since he started I believe (can you target basketball reference for specific stretches of the season?). It's a good thing Green, RJ, and Tony are all smalls who can soak up big minutes right now. If Green continues to play this much, when he has a mini-breakdown JA better not strikeout. He won't have any chances to prove himself once the team is healthy.
b2b2b yes but as you said the Spurs where playing 8th game in 12 nights.
An Ill Tim Duncan, minus their best player and backup point guard
In addition, 71 of the 265 minutes where played by 3 guys with a collective 66 games of NBA experience
I'll take it

[Nathan89]

The great thing is that the Spurs finally won a road game, well in overtime. The bad is the situation with RJ is hard to explain. He should be driving more often, also get some rebounds.


Rj can't do what he can't do.

[dunkman]

Rj can't do what he can't do.

He's above average rebounder for a SF and he used to go to the line very often. Pop said he wasn't hear case like S-Jax and was able to draw defensive attention, something Bowen couldn't do. That was when the Spurs signed RJ. Not sure what's going on. Pop said recently he expected from Parker, RJ and Duncan to step up, in absence of Ginobili. All of sudden, Jefferson disappears completely. Even the rebounding became pathetic.

[Obstructed_View]

I was wondering how much longer Obstructed_View was going to be able to bite his tongue regarding the Bonner/Splitter situation . . .

:toast

:lol Yeah I tried. I've said my piece, and for the longest time I knew most of my posts were just repeating the same things over and over. It's nice to see that some people are starting to come around, though I wish I had been more convincing over the last several years. Last year was just such a bitter repeat of 2006 where you could see what was going to happen every time Pop did something stupid. I'm just beat down by it now.