General 2012 Free Agency Discussion

[DPG21920]

Ronnie Brewer to the Knicks for the minimum.

Man, under this new CBA, it seems like if a player can't cash in, he just signs with one of the five biggest market teams. :lol @ "parity"
/emo

Well if the Spurs would stop saying they are done making roster moves and that they want to keep their roster at 14, maybe guys would look at coming here.

[ace3g]

Michael Lee ‏@MrMichaelLee

Seeking a backup for John Wall, #wizards have agreed to terms with free agent PG A.J. Price. Price has been with IND past 3 years.

Brooklyn Nets sign F Tornike Shengelia

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/brooklyn-nets-sign-f-tornike-182748067--nba.html

[pad300]

It's weird that Kirilenko is making the move now to go back to the NBA. A lot of teams have no money left. I'm not sure if there are teams that are good fits for him and with enough money left.

That's kind of good for us. If he's not going to cash in someplace, a decent shot a championship (Us...) might be the deciding factor.


PS. Dreaming in technicolor is fun. I do recognize that the FO is so extremely happy with the current big collection that they have no intention of changing it. Bonner and Blair give us so much impact in the playoffs! :depressed

[Bruno]

What is sure about Kirilenko is that if he ends playing to the Nets for the min (they can't offer more), it will make a ton of noises. The assumption that Nets owner has an under the table deal with Kirilenko will be too easy to make. And he will be impossible for the NBA to check that Kirilenko doesn't get additional money because the money transfer will be done in Russia.

[DPG21920]

Pretty sure they won't care for the reasons you stated (really can't prove anything).

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Several league executives believe Minnesota is pursuing free agent Andrei Kirilenko. He's no longer considering Brooklyn, sources say.

[timvp]

Kirilenko is going to get >$8M.

:lol @ those of use who thought he might accept MLE

[racm]

Damn, Kahn has a pretty white roster that's not bad.

I think it's Adelman who pretty much pulls some strings to prevent Kahn from overloading on point guards.

[DPG21920]

Kirilenko is going to get >$8M.

:lol @ those of use who thought he might accept MLE

Well, there were those who thought Jamison wouldn't take the league min, so there is always hope tbh.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Not exactly an impressive resume when you take a closer look. The Cavs game was over after a 32-18 1st quarter, in a game where Luke Walton played 18 minutes. Granted Mills scored efficiently, but it wasn't exactly against top level players or subs.

Then there is the Suns game in which Mills went 9-23 for 27 points while both Channing Frye and Grant Hill were injured and didn't play, and Nash played a total of 17 minutes. To put things in perspective Josh Childress, who the money conscious Suns felt was worth amnestying this off-season, played 21 minutes that same game. In fact with the exception of Ronnie Price, no one on the Suns played fewer minutes than Nash and yet they only lost by 4.

Then there was the final game against GSW. Again keep in mind this was a GSW team that had to lose in order to have a chance at keeping their lottery pick. So in order to do that they started 5 rookies, played a total of 7 players with Chris Wright and Jeremy Tyler logging 46 and 44 minutes respectively.

That's not to say the Spurs were at full strength, since the Big 3 didn't play in any of those games, and Splitter and Green played only limited minutes in the GSW win. However none of those games are particularly good indicators of how he will workout as a full-time backup PG for the Spurs.

Mills was the backup in a dysfunctional Portland team for 74 games and did fine. In his 16mins per game for us last season (over 16 games) Patty averaged 10/2/2, shot .485 and .429 from 3. He plays hard D, and is a great team mate. He runs the Australian team like a grizzled alpha dog at the age of 23. He will be a GREAT backup PG for the Spurs, probably the best since Speedy.

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/patrick_mills/career_stats.html

[racm]

The Spurs system is IMO a better fit for Mills. Portland was all about slow-it-down; I think the 2010-11 Blazers were dead last in pace or close.

The Spurs system isn't quite Seven Seconds or Less, but a system that exploits the fastbreak and relies on ball and off-ball movement to get the best shot available in the halfcourt, regardless of who takes it.

[AFBlue]

Mills was the backup in a dysfunctional Portland team for 74 games and did fine. In his 16mins per game for us last season (over 16 games) Patty averaged 10/2/2, shot .485 and .429 from 3. He plays hard D, and is a great team mate. He runs the Australian team like a grizzled alpha dog at the age of 23. He will be a GREAT backup PG for the Spurs, probably the best since Speedy.

http://www.nba.com/playerfile/patrick_mills/career_stats.html

http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2010/0425/rpm_g_spursts_576.jpg

Excuse me?

[DPG21920]

Still nothing on K-Mart or Blatche which is interesting.

[venitian navigator]

Still nothing on K-Mart or Blatche which is interesting.

...think you say interesting meaning their market value is going down...and that could let them to consider a Spurs offer for the minimum ?

[Redshadows]

What a boring summer.

[DPG21920]

...think you say interesting meaning their market value is going down...and that could let them to consider a Spurs offer for the minimum ?

I think they both will have to sign for close to the min more than likely. It's hard to tell, but it doesn't seem like the Spurs have interest in either player regardless of whether or not they would sign for the min.

I just thought it was interesting that with all the guys being signed (even some really bad players) that you haven't heard anything around these two who definitely could help a team in need of a PF.

[spurs10]

I think they both will have to sign for close to the min more than likely. It's hard to tell, but it doesn't seem like the Spurs have interest in either player regardless of whether or not they would sign for the min.

I just thought it was interesting that with all the guys being signed (even some really bad players) that you haven't heard anything around these two who definitely could help a team in need of a PF.
:bang

[Bruno]

Still nothing on K-Mart or Blatche which is interesting.

https://twitter.com/JaredZwerling


Spoke with Andray Blatche's manager today. Wouldn't comment on teams interested. Said a few. He's working in Houston at John Lucas' camp.


Manger on Blatche: "Amnestying w/ the Wiz not a surprise. Was kind of mutual. I think it worked out on both ends." Starting not a focus.

Nothing serious about Blatche isn't that surprising since he is a free agent for a little over a week. The silence about Martin is more troubling. Maybe he is asking for too much money and teams are only willing to offer him the minimum.

[timvp]

He's working in Houston at John Lucas' camp.

Probably means Blatche is fat, a drunk or both. He's probably trying to get in reasonable shape before he starts shopping around.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Minnesota is finalizing a two-year, $20 million contract with free agent forward Andrei Kirilenko, league sources tell Y! Sports.

[DPG21920]

I'd rather pay AK47 10M per year than Batum. Especially rather pay AK 20M guaranteed (if that is the case) than 45M for Batum.

Wing play was a large part of their struggles last year and AK is definitely an upgrade. Minny looks like a playoff team if everyone is healthy.

[ace3g]

This should make KLove happy, he said recently he would consider leaving if the Wolves FO didn't make moves to improve the team.

[DPG21920]

If KLove is as good as he thinks he is - no excuses now.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Kirilenko's deal with the Wolves is expected to include a player option for the 2013-'14 season, sources said.

--

My top remaining FAs are: Dominic McGuire, Blatche, Kenyon Martin, James Singleton, and DJ White.

[TD 21]

If KLove is as good as he thinks he is - no excuses now.

Exactly. Is there a more arrogant player in the league at the moment? If James, Howard, Anthony, you name it, said half the things he's said in the past year or two, they'd be vilified beyond belief. I realize he's amongst the best players in the game, but he really thinks he's in the elite of the elite, with James, Durant, Howard, Wade, Paul and Rose. As if piling up meaningless numbers on a non playoff team makes him important. It didn't make countless others in that position important or earn them multiple All-Star berths.

As far as them making the playoffs, I think the Jazz edge them out. Their pieces fit more seamlessly together, they've taken potentially major strides to fix their biggest weakness by adding the likes of the Williamses and Foye and unlike the Timberwolves, who have undergone their annual off season overhaul, they figure to have a semblance of continuity.

[Vic Petro]

Kevin Love is an elite player, no doubt about it. I look at the Twolves and still don't see a playoff roster. I don't think him opening his mouth is any different than when Garnett used to do it in the same situation.

[racm]

Second tier superstar, because he can't carry scrubs to the Finals. :downspin:

[DPG21920]

Kevin Love is an elite player, no doubt about it. I look at the Twolves and still don't see a playoff roster. I don't think him opening his mouth is any different than when Garnett used to do it in the same situation.

If you are an elite player in your prime, you pretty much don't miss the playoffs ever. Regardless of who's on your team.

KG took the Wolves to the playoffs pretty much every year (even if he did get bounced in the first round)

[racm]

If you are an elite player in your prime, you pretty much don't miss the playoffs ever. Regardless of who's on your team.

KG took the Wolves to the playoffs pretty much every year (even if he did get bounced in the first round)

Love will never be the first option on a championship team.

[tesseractive]

Kevin Love is an elite player, no doubt about it. I look at the Twolves and still don't see a playoff roster. I don't think him opening his mouth is any different than when Garnett used to do it in the same situation.

Rubio is better than anyone Garnett played with except during the year Minnesota went to the conference finals. Yet Garnett carried that team to the playoffs every year. Love is sure as hell no Kevin Garnett.

[Nathan89]

If you are an elite player in your prime, you pretty much don't miss the playoffs ever. Regardless of who's on your team.

KG took the Wolves to the playoffs pretty much every year (even if he did get bounced in the first round)

23 is a players prime?

[DPG21920]

Some players enter primes earlier and have a longer prime. It's arguing semantics - if you are one of the greats (like Love thinks he is), you don't miss the playoffs really.

[Ice009]

If you are an elite player in your prime, you pretty much don't miss the playoffs ever. Regardless of who's on your team.

KG took the Wolves to the playoffs pretty much every year (even if he did get bounced in the first round)

Exactly, I've heard great players say that a superstar can get you to the playoffs but you need role players to step up if you're going to do anything there. One player can't take you to the finals, but a truly great superstar should be able to get almost any team into the playoffs.

David Robinson was one of those great players, but he just didn't have the support to win it all in his prime.

Kevin Love is a long way off the true elites.

[racm]

Exactly, I've heard great players say that a superstar can get you to the playoffs but you need role players to step up if you're going to do anything there. One player can't take you to the finals, but a truly great superstar should be able to get almost any team into the playoffs.

David Robinson was one of those great players, but he just didn't have the support to win it all in his prime.

Kevin Love is a long way off the true elites.

2007 begs to disagree. :downspin:

[CGD]

^ also the 2006 Miami Hey say hi. Don't give me any of that Shaq crap either; he was a glorified role player ever since leaving LAL.

[Ice009]

I should have said one player can't win you the championship without the role players stepping up.

[ace3g]

Clippers agreed to terms with Ronny Turiaf

The Clippers and free-agent Ronny Turiaf have agreed to a one-year, veteran’s minimum contract worth $1.146 million, said NBA executive

http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-clippers-turiaf-20120725,0,3716161.story

[Cane]

Rubio is better than anyone Garnett played with except during the year Minnesota went to the conference finals. Yet Garnett carried that team to the playoffs every year. Love is sure as hell no Kevin Garnett.

KG missed the playoffs three straight years for the Wolves before getting traded to the Celtics.

I agree Love isn't no Kevin Garnett though. His defense sucks compared to KG. Offensively they both like to pick and pop and shoot an outside jumper than bang in the paint, but KG definitely wins here too since he's a better passer and has more junk in his game

[Duncan2177]

Clippers agreed to terms with Ronny Turiaf

The Clippers and free-agent Ronny Turiaf have agreed to a one-year, veteran’s minimum contract worth $1.146 million, said NBA executive

http://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-clippers-turiaf-20120725,0,3716161.story

The clippers:lol What a dope.

[tesseractive]

KG missed the playoffs three straight years for the Wolves before getting traded to the Celtics.

I agree Love isn't no Kevin Garnett though. His defense sucks compared to KG. Offensively they both like to pick and pop and shoot an outside jumper than bang in the paint, but KG definitely wins here too since he's a better passer and has more junk in his game

Oops. I forgot about that. Nevertheless, they made the playoffs for 9 years in a row, usually with an utterly shitty supporting cast.

[racm]

What's even more rankling is that after KG's MVP year he failed to make the playoffs until he was traded to Boston.

[Nathan89]

KG missed the playoffs three straight years for the Wolves before getting traded to the Celtics.



28,29,30, are prime years. He wasn't an elite player.

Neither was Kobe who missed the playoffs at 26.

DPG you agree with this?

[therealtruth]

KG missed the playoffs three straight years for the Wolves before getting traded to the Celtics.

I agree Love isn't no Kevin Garnett though. His defense sucks compared to KG. Offensively they both like to pick and pop and shoot an outside jumper than bang in the paint, but KG definitely wins here too since he's a better passer and has more junk in his game

How do you not bang in the paint and lead the league in rebounding?

[therealtruth]

Rubio is better than anyone Garnett played with except during the year Minnesota went to the conference finals. Yet Garnett carried that team to the playoffs every year. Love is sure as hell no Kevin Garnett.

You forgot about Wally?

[racm]

How do you not bang in the paint and lead the league in rebounding?

To the point of stepping on Scola's face.

[Cane]

28,29,30, are prime years. He wasn't an elite player.

Neither was Kobe who missed the playoffs at 26.

DPG you agree with this?

Yea was quoting tesseractive



How do you not bang in the paint and lead the league in rebounding?


Tbh should have said that Love doesn't have much of a back to the basket game. Imo both guys want to shoot the open jumper anyway

[Obstructed_View]

^ also the 2006 Miami Hey say hi. Don't give me any of that Shaq crap either; he was a glorified role player ever since leaving LAL.

You're high. Shaq's MVP trophy is sitting on Steve Nash's mantle.

[NickiRasgo]

Timberwolves Sign Veteran Forward Andrei Kirilenko


http://www.nba.com/timberwolves/news/timberwolves-sign-veteran-forward-andrei-kirilenko

[Bruno]

The Kirilenko signing isn't a good news for Derrick Williams future in Minny:
http://www.nba.com/2012/news/features/scott_howard_cooper/07/26/wolves-derrick-williams/

I had to admit that I don't know a lot about him but should Spurs pursue Williams?

[timvp]

It's shocking to say since he was just the second overall selection last season but everything I've seen of Williams since the draft has been ugly. He's like Michael Beasley but fatter and whinier. The only thing that keeps his stock high is his draft position.

A fat, whiny tweener who can't really shoot and isn't that athletic is difficult to imagine as anything more than a low efficiency chucker, tbh.







That said, his stats were so good at Arizona that I'd still give up something like Blair and a first rounder on him. I think.

[pad300]

It's shocking to say since he was just the second overall selection last season but everything I've seen of Williams since the draft has been ugly. He's like Michael Beasley but fatter and whinier. The only thing that keeps his stock high is his draft position.

A fat, whiny tweener who can't really shoot and isn't that athletic is difficult to imagine as anything more than a low efficiency chucker, tbh.

That said, his stats were so good at Arizona that I'd still give up something like Blair and a first rounder on him. I think.

Your observations match real well with what Hoopsanalyst.com had to say


Derrick Williams, Arizona: Terrific offensive season. The most amazing stat was that he hit 57% on 74 3-point attempts. Guards don’t even shoot this well. There are just a few players who top 50% every year. Derrick Williams was simply the best 3-point shooter in the nation last year. He fell just short of qualifying for the record, I’m guessing because a player needs to have at least 2 attempts per game to qualify. This isn’t a bad skill to have at all, but it doesn’t tell me he can play either forward position.

The problem with Williams is I’m not sure where he’ll fit. As a PF his defense is very weak, with a 2.2 combined steals and blocks per 40 minutes. His .600 on 2-pointers is good, but the best PFs have been well over that, so it isn’t like he translates to becoming a dominant inside scorer. The same could be said about his rebounding: decent, but hardly dominating. That he’s smallish for a PF isn’t going to help either. As a SF, he has that low ASB40 and has never shown much of an inclination to pass the ball. Those are two very bad signs for long-term NBA success. He just isn’t a good fit at either forward position. That makes him a role player at best and a real reach in the top five of any draft, even one as weak as this.

I might move Blair for him, but I certainly wouldn't include a first. Heck, I'd be hesitant about just Blair; Blair has shown the ability to be productive inside his limits.

[TD 21]

I always thought he'd be a bust. Basically, he looked like the second coming of Beasley, only without the off court problems. Considering he's not a natural at either position forward position, I don't see him as a starter on a good team. Best case scenario is, he becomes one of the best off the bench front court scorers in the league, in the mold of Harrington, only with more athleticism. But for Blair and a 1st, I'd do that without even thinking about it. Unfortunately, the Timberwolves wouldn't.

Kahn would look even more stupid than usual by giving up on him so soon, especially after he just gave away a former 4th overall pick (granted, he's an even bigger bust, but still) and a future 1st, just to sign a 31 year old -- who's in decline and not a primary scoring option -- for $10M annually, but he really should trade Williams before his value further declines.

[Nathan89]

TBH, the wolves would request Bonner in the trade.

[Bruno]

That said, his stats were so good at Arizona that I'd still give up something like Blair and a first rounder on him. I think.

Derrick Williams has a $4.8M salary. Bonner will be needed to match salaries. A trade like Bonner+Neal+1st round pick for him could be a good starting point.

An issue with getting Derrick Williams is that deadline to pick the option on his 3rd year will comes quickly. At the end of the training camp, his team will have to decided whether or not to commit $5M for his 2013-2014 salary.

[Duncan2177]

TBH, the wolves would request Bonner in the trade.

Good get rid of him.

[Redshadows]

Don't think Wolves would give up the second overall pick that fast.

I would trade Bonner + Blair + Neal for Derrick Williams and then sign a bigman for min.








Don't think Williams would help Spurs next season. But good to get rid of Bonner.

[Redshadows]

--Kahn acknowledged that Derrick Williams will have to step up his play to become a part of the mix this year. "I think it challenges Derrick to seize the moment," Kahn said. "I think that, otherwise, Derrick probably would have been in a situation where he would have felt the minutes would just have been handed to him. I think in this environment, Derrick should feel challenged, and I hope he accepts the challenge to seize what he wants as opposed to it just being handed to him. There are no limitations on Derrick's ability to play here, from a minutes standpoint."
http://www.startribune.com/sports/blogs/164057606.html

Seem at least Kahn is not gonna trade Derrick Williams right now.

[JonNOKC]

It's shocking to say since he was just the second overall selection last season but everything I've seen of Williams since the draft has been ugly. He's like Michael Beasley but fatter and whinier. The only thing that keeps his stock high is his draft position.

A fat, whiny tweener who can't really shoot and isn't that athletic is difficult to imagine as anything more than a low efficiency chucker, tbh.







That said, his stats were so good at Arizona that I'd still give up something like Blair and a first rounder on him. I think.

So we know the Spurs are content to stick with what they have for now (I think the Spurs want to at least get to training camp and maybe even wait to trade deadline to make next move) I really do think they will make at least one more move to improve frontline by next years trade deadline.

Waiting allows the FO/staff to get better feel on a number of issues like seeing how guard situation shakes out - while Neal seems like the most likely to be dealt - CJs value may be at a high with summer league performance, and while I think Mills has inside track at being the #2 PG, if CJ has great camp and De Colo shows ability to run offense at times then Patty could be attractive to other teams as well.

Also they can get a feel for the health/physical condition of Blair, upside of Richards or other TC bigs, and possibly by waiting until trade deadline maybe the right fit comes available - of course also possible that waiting back fires, so lets hope we haven't missed an opportunity and are left with Bonner in playoffs.

If Spurs want to make move Williams or maybe one of Houston's young PFs would be good place to start. I think that there are many options that are realistic for Spurs to improve frontcourt but the wait sure is frustrating

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Golden State has reached agreement on a 3-year, $2.6M deal with Draymond Green, league source tells Y! Green was 35th pick in June draft.

--

Also looks like the Warriors will re-sign Rush and sign Carl Landry

[loveforthegame]

Good signing by the Warriors. They've made some nice moves and had a solid draft. They should improve this year.

[jyra]

Landry going to the Warriors is a good thing. They were one (the only?) team that was linked to Kenyon Martin and could have offered him more than a minimum contract.

[DPG21920]

There is no question that if you can get DW for Bonner/Neal and a late, late 1st rounder you do it. I am not high on him at all, but his ceiling is still so much higher than what you would be giving up that you have to do it.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent guard Roger Mason has agreed to terms on a contract with the New Orleans Hornets, a source tells Yahoo! Sports.

[racm]

Good replacement for Belinelli.

[TimDunkem]

Not really.

He's a shooter who has forgotten how to shoot.

[Obstructed_View]

Not really.

He's a shooter who has forgotten how to shoot.

Almost like he's a crappy shooter who had an extended hot streak when he was here.

[venitian navigator]

I just took a look at the free agents still available (hoopsworld) and I have to say that ther's still a lot of at least decent names out there with no contract.
I don't know how many teams still have cap space, probably not a lot of them...it's a shame we can offer just minimum contracts.

[Duncan2177]

Chris Andersen Open To Signing For Veteran's Minimum


http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/222792/Chris_Andersen_Open_To_Signing_For_Veterans_Minimu m

[sehui]

Chris Andersen Open To Signing For Veteran's Minimum


http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/222792/Chris_Andersen_Open_To_Signing_For_Veterans_Minimu m

that would actually be awesome. I know he's got a bad rep, but ingame he's pretty tame.

That whole Child Pornography thing is a little daunting, but, the guys' got talent and size, so I don't really give a fuck.

[Stump]

Please, no Birdman.

[Obstructed_View]

that would actually be awesome. I know he's got a bad rep, but ingame he's pretty tame.

That whole Child Pornography thing is a little daunting, but, the guys' got talent and size, so I don't really give a fuck.

The DA is dragging their feet on charging/clearing him, so nobody's going to touch him until that's out of the way.

[DPG21920]

Per Marc Stein:

Free agent rumble that just dribbled across the pond: Heat & Spurs among teams to express exploratory interest in free agent Andray Blatche

[elemento]

for the MIN, hell YEAH i would take Birdman

[sehui]

The DA is dragging their feet on charging/clearing him, so nobody's going to touch him until that's out of the way.

Gotham's White Knight?

[Redshadows]

Darren Wolfson ‏@DarrenWolfson
D-Will/Ridnour for someone. My guess w/ no inside info. is Varejao. RT @PhilipkAnderson: @DarrenWolfson The big move Kahn is talking about?

[Obstructed_View]

Gotham's White Knight?

Gotham = Denver. Last word was that the investigation was still open.

[ace3g]

Via Michael Lee, Washington Post

After using the amnesty provision to cut Andray Blatche and signing Price, the Wizards have reached out to several players, including the recently amnestied swingman Josh Childress, forward Anthony Tolliver and shooting guard Jodie Meeks. .... The Wizards were interested with Childress two years ago and a source close to Childress said they are one of a handful of teams in the mix for his services.

http://www.iamagm.com/article/wizards-express-interest-in-free-agent-josh-childress#.UCGBzqNdC7s

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Aussie coach Brett Brown predicts Joe Ingles has NBA future with his "body like Tayshaun Prince." Heard same from two NBA GMs tonight

Didn't realize he was only 24 (thought he was closer to 30). More of a SF, but has good size at 6'8. Always been impressed by his play.

[Bruno]

^ Spurs are fine for this year at SF with Leonard and Jackson. In case of injuries, Green or Ginobili can too play some minutes at SF. For 2013-2014, it could be more complicate with Jackson getting older and with him being a free agent next summer. It wouldn't be a bad idea for Spurs to start looking at young SFs like Joe Ingles.

[Tyrone Jenkins]

^ Spurs are fine for this year at SF with Leonard and Jackson. In case of injuries, Green or Ginobili can too play some minutes at SF. For 2013-2014, it could be more complicate with Jackson getting older and with him being a free agent next summer. It wouldn't be a bad idea for Spurs to start looking at young SFs like Joe Ingles.

Agreed.

However, Kawhi is the SF of the future (next 5-8 years most likely). Another young SF would leave the position w/ 2 younger and less experienced players. Cheap vets that are defensive minded and cheap are better candidates to back up KL.

Spurs need a PF who has size more than any other position. TD is a center now. Splitter can play PF and is pretty good in pick and roll situations, but he can't defend better PFs (Gasol, West, etc.).

[ace3g]

@paulcoro:

Free agent center Jermaine O'Neal has agreed to sign with the #Suns. More to come on azcentral.com shortly.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

My two favorite leagues collide: Hapoel Jerusalem signing Craig "The Rhino" Smith out of the NBA and is in talks to make Luther Head next

[jyra]

Jared Zwerling ‏@JaredZwerling (https://twitter.com/JaredZwerling)

Chris Andersen has received some offers from NBA teams. He does have a favorite team he wants to play for, but his reps won't say just yet.

Chris Andersen's offers have been from the $1.2 to $5 million range per season.

[ace3g]

Todd Ramasar @tramasar

Ryan Hollins has verbally agreed to be a LA Clipper.

[DPG21920]

Jared Zwerling ‏@JaredZwerling (https://twitter.com/JaredZwerling)

Chris Andersen has received some offers from NBA teams. He does have a favorite team he wants to play for, but his reps won't say just yet.

Chris Andersen's offers have been from the $1.2 to $5 million range per season.

:lol Ya right. If he has offers in the 5M range, it's quite easy to determine where he is going.

[racm]

http://twitter.com/Jonathan_Feigen/statuses/235169611421724672



Jonathan Feigen @Jonathan_Feigen
Rockets have come to an agreement with guard Carlos Delfino on a one-year deal, with team option on 2nd season, per source.

[8FOR!3]

http://twitter.com/Jonathan_Feigen/statuses/235169611421724672

Good signing. He performs they get to keep him.

[ace3g]

Via Sam Amico, FoxSports

Minnesota is one team said to be on the lookout for a real center to position next to All-Star power forward Kevin Love. While it's too soon to have reached out to the Sixers, they have placed calls to teams to see who might be out there, several sources told FOX Sports Ohio. But it seems all discussions have been exploratory and have even subsided in recent weeks. Right now, the only two true centers on the T-Wolves' roster are Greg Stiemsma and Nikola Pekovic. Each seems more suited for a backup role.

http://www.iamagm.com/article/timberwolves-looking-to-trade-for-a-center#.UCmsF6NdC7s

[racm]

Really? They're thinking of moving Pek to the bench already?

He was good last year.

[ace3g]

The Orlando Magic have re-signed free agent guard Ish Smith, General Manager Rob Hennigan announced today

http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/42506/magic-re-sign-ish-smith.html

--

John Hollinger ‏@johnhollinger

Contract become fully guaranteed tomorrow RT @Jpdabrams Rockets announced that they waived former Knick Josh Harrellson

[TD 21]

Contract become fully guaranteed tomorrow RT @Jpdabrams Rockets announced that they waived former Knick Josh Harrellson

If there is any truth to the Patterson rumor from that person on the HoopsHype board and the scenario with Bonner being traded -- in addition to Blair -- comes to fruition, then Harrellson would make sense as a fifth big. He's strong, he can shoot the three, he's a solid rebounder and he can play both big positions.

[ace3g]

If there is any truth to the Patterson rumor from that person on the HoopsHype board and the scenario with Bonner being traded -- in addition to Blair -- comes to fruition, then Harrellson would make sense as a fifth big. He's strong, he can shoot the three, he's a solid rebounder and he can play both big positions.

I mentioned in that thread, if that trade happens, it will be for just Blair and Neal. Adding Bonner (adds salary) to the deal would make the trade more complex for the 3 teams.

And from what I've seen of Harrellson, while he has some size (doesn't get moved around in the post on defense), his lateral movement is really bad, he would only be a spot up shooter in our system.

[TD 21]

I mentioned in that thread, if that trade happens, it will be for just Blair and Neal. Adding Bonner (adds salary) to the deal would make the trade more complex for the 3 teams.

And from what I've seen of Harrellson, while he has some size (doesn't get moved around in the post on defense), his lateral movement is really bad, he would only be a spot up shooter in our system.

Well, it would depend on who the third team was. As I said, a couple of the teams that person has mentioned need stretch fours and if they bring in Patterson, then they'd probably like to move Bonner. I'm not saying they wouldn't do the deal if they couldn't though.

Yeah, Harrellson's lateral movement is terrible. Really, I think he's probably best utilized as strictly a center, but he did play some power forward for the Knicks last season. It wouldn't be ideal, but if one of Diaw/Patterson were injured, they could probably get away with one of Harrellson or Splitter defending power forwards. I don't see that as enough of a concern to supersede the reasons he'd be a good fit (again, if Bonner were traded).

[racm]

I'd take a flyer on Harrellson. The Spurs picked up Green from the Cavs' refuse pile, f'rex.

Along with Diaw he'd also make Bonner fully expendable.

[ace3g]

Hornets Sign Brian Roberts

Roberts, who played in all five Summer League games for the Hornets (three starts) averaged 13.8 points, 2.2 assists and 2.0 rebounds in 27.4 minutes per game while shooting 50.0% from the field, 54.5% from three-point range and 93.8% from the line. The 6’1’’ Toledo, OH native played for Brose Baskets Bamberg in Germany last season, leading the team to the German National Championship.

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/223039/Hornets_Sign_Brian_Roberts#ixzz23lD0F89Z

--

Brian K. Schmitz @MagicInsider

Magic, armed with $17 million exception after Howard deal, hope to acquire more draft picks from teams shipping players, trying to avoid tax


Brian K. Schmitz @MagicInsider

Al Harrington wants to make home in Orlando after Howard trade, but likely will be dealt this season or next summer in rebuild plan

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka has reached agreement on a four-year contract extension, league sources tell Y! Sports.

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nba--serge-ibaka-reaches-agreement-on-four-year-extension-with-oklahoma-city.html

4 years - 40 million

[racm]

4 years/48 million, actually. Good value, especially since guys like JaVale McGee get roughly the same amount and Ibaka actually contributes more.

[ace3g]

john telich @JohnTelich8

Source: Alonzo Gee and #Cavs close to deal. 9.8 mil 3 yrs. @PJFOX8 @TheKovach @fox8news @ALaForce #nba

Sam Amico @SamAmicoFSO

Cavs and Alonzo Gee nearing 3-year deal, around $10 million, source says. @JohnTelich8 reported same first. Offer has been on table

[DPG21920]

Wow, congrats to Gee :tu. That is a pretty nice contract for someone like him. He did play well with them, but dang.

[CGD]

Not a FA, but not wanting to create another thread I'll but the Ibaka extension info here.

http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2012/08/18/sports/basketball/ap-bkn-thunder-ibaka-extension.html?ref=basketball

Its gonna be interesting to see what they do with Harden, and to a lesser degree Maynor next summer.

[Redshadows]

OKC could resign both Harden and Ibaka now.

If they don't want to pay the tax, they could trade one of them for picks next summer.

[Bruno]

john telich @JohnTelich8

Source: Alonzo Gee and #Cavs close to deal. 9.8 mil 3 yrs. @PJFOX8 @TheKovach @fox8news @ALaForce #nba


These is the kind of contract that makes the Green contract looking like a great one.
The biggest positive of Spurs offseason is that they haven't overpaid a single player. Duncan, Diaw, Green, De Colo and Mills contracts are all very reasonable given their respective levels.

[Bruno]

https://twitter.com/JohnTelich8/status/237273709046554624



john telich ‏@JohnTelich8
Source: #Cavs likely to buy out Omri Casspi from contract. Hearing this may be a mutual desire.

I'm not sure how Casspi would fit with Spurs roster but Spurs have been rumored to really like him for a long time.

[ace3g]

Would it be possible by some luck to land Patterson, Blatche, and Casspi?

In the rumored Patterson deal, at least 3 players (Blair, Neal, and Byars?) outgoing, clears some roster space.

James Anderson = FA
DeJuan Blair = Part of Patterson trade
Matt Bonner
Derrick Byars = Part of Patterson trade
Nando de Colo
Marcus Denmon = Signed with French team
Boris Diaw
Tim Duncan
Manu Ginobili
Danny Green
Stephen Jackson
Cory Joseph
Kawhi Leonard
Patty Mills
Gary Neal = Part of Patterson trade
Tony Parker
Tiago Splitter

That leaves 12 players on the roster, so theoretically (Casspi and Blatche would have to agree to vet min contracts) adding those 3 players would put the roster at 15?

Long shot yes.

[mountainballer]

https://twitter.com/JohnTelich8/status/237273709046554624
I'm not sure how Casspi would fit with Spurs roster but Spurs have been rumored to really like him for a long time.

they definitely did in 2009 and 2010, but do they still feel the same way? Casspi did have a good rookie season, but from there he didn't improve. even worse, his output went south in almsot every possible category. that's why he also lost his starting spot to a player named Alonzo Gee, who couldn't even secure a roster spot with the Spurs.

but if they still believe in his potential, I can see how he fits. if Pop thinks he can play a role like Nocioni once did with the Bulls, or Jerebko plays with the Pistons, then he could find his niche. his size also makes him intriguing vs. Thunder/Durant.
I really can't see the Cavs buy him out. so it would need a trade. question is, what do the Cavs want? they are thin at SF, so they will likely ask for a SF. Spurs don't have. (KL is untouchable and Sjax to expensive)
a package of Blair and Neal might make them listen, but they will still take another teams offer, that includes a SF, over that package.
so, not the most likely scenario, also considering that at this point the Spurs priority would be a traditional PF.

[racm]

they definitely did in 2009 and 2010, but do they still feel the same way? Casspi did have a good rookie season, but from there he didn't improve. even worse, his output went south in almsot every possible category. that's why he also lost his starting spot to a player named Alonzo Gee, who couldn't even secure a roster spot with the Spurs.

but if they still believe in his potential, I can see how he fits. if Pop thinks he can play a role like Nocioni once did with the Bulls, or Jerebko plays with the Pistons, then he could find his niche. his size also makes him intriguing vs. Thunder/Durant.
I really can't see the Cavs buy him out. so it would need a trade. question is, what do the Cavs want? they are thin at SF, so they will likely ask for a SF. Spurs don't have. (KL is untouchable and Sjax to expensive)
a package of Blair and Neal might make them listen, but they will still take another teams offer, that includes a SF, over that package.
so, not the most likely scenario, also considering that at this point the Spurs priority would be a traditional PF.

I'd take a PF who isn't too slow to do some perimeter D. That was why Boston gave Miami a hard time.

I'd trade for Mbah a Moute f'rex.

[ace3g]

Not that he was really an option for anyone but...

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Going online now @espn: Eduardo Najera retiring as NBA player to become head coach/part owner of D-League's Texas Legends, per sources close

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Linkage to Eduardo Najera retiring as NBA player to become head coach/part-owner in D-League w/ @TexasLegendsNBA: http://es.pn/Ov9SLZ

[CGD]

Not that he was really an option for anyone but...

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Going online now @espn: Eduardo Najera retiring as NBA player to become head coach/part owner of D-League's Texas Legends, per sources close

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Linkage to Eduardo Najera retiring as NBA player to become head coach/part-owner in D-League w/ @TexasLegendsNBA: http://es.pn/Ov9SLZ

Good for him. Loved the heart they guy played with. Best of luck to him.

[Big P]

The San Antonio Spurs today announced that they have waived guard/forward Derrick Byars.

Byars joined the Spurs on April 25, and appeared in the final two games of the regular season, averaging 5.0 points and 5.5 rebounds in 18.5 minutes.

[mountainballer]

most likely this is to give him a chance to sign in Europe.

[bklynspursfan]

"As for Fisher, it would not surprise me to see him end up with the Spurs. "

It would surprise me, I know that much lol

http://sulia.com/channel/basketball/f/799d94ad-940f-4db9-8a64-33775eb8c822/

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Hearing that Martell Webster auditioned this week for Wizards and that Wiz are on short list of teams sharpshooter is likely to sign with

Via Michael Lee | Washington Post

Free agent small forward Martell Webster worked out for the Wizards at Verizon Center this week, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation. .... They are about $3 million under the salary cap but are seeking to fill out the roster with players on minimum salaries. Anthony Tolliver has been in the mix for some time, but the team also has interest in free agents Michael Redd, Terrence Williams and Shawne Williams.

http://www.iamagm.com/article/wizards-interested-in-using-the-veterans-minimum-on-shawne-williams-michael-redd-terrence-williams-anthony-tolliver-or-martell-webster#.UDWC7qPF-So

[Sean Cagney]

Good for him. Loved the heart they guy played with. Best of luck to him.

I hated him, his dirty foul in the 010 playoffs when he was sent in and his wreckless play that pissed off Malik Rose a few times in the 03 series. He was just a wreckless clutz alot of times and hurt people without meaning it :lol:lol I still remember Malik snapping one game when he hit him on accident again shoving him away and giving in the :rolleyes face.

[Wild Cobra Kai]

I hated him, his dirty foul in the 010 playoffs when he was sent in and his wreckless play that pissed off Malik Rose a few times in the 03 series. He was just a wreckless clutz alot of times and hurt people without meaning it :lol:lol I still remember Malik snapping one game when he hit him on accident again shoving him away and giving in the :rolleyes face.

I hated Najera, too. Every time someone called Bowen dirty, I wanted to post one of a number of Najera YouTube hack jobs. He was the NBA version of a hockey enforcer/fighter, just flat filthy dirty.

[racm]

I hated Najera, too. Every time someone called Bowen dirty, I wanted to post one of a number of Najera YouTube hack jobs. He was the NBA version of a hockey enforcer/fighter, just flat filthy dirty.

Hey, every championship team has an enforcer!

[Drom John]

Dirtiest Spur that I remember was Cherokee Parks.

[wildbill2u]

Dirtiest Spur that I remember was Cherokee Parks.

This could be an interesting topic by itself. I'd have to say Dennis Rodman. He had a nasty habit of submarining underneath a player who was in the air. That trick can permanently end the career of a player.

Meanest was Rich Jones. After he was traded to the Nets in the great Spurs/Nets melee that had players and fans all over the floor, Rich chased one of the fattest Spurs fans from the floor almost up to the roof in the old Hemisfair Arena.

[ace3g]

Donte Greene signs with the Brooklyn Nets
The forward was a free-agent

http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/42852/donte-greene-signs-with-the-brooklyn-nets.html

Via Tom Haberstroh | ESPN.com

Looking to fill their final spot on the roster, the Miami Heat hosted a workout for free agent center Josh Harrellson on Thursday morning, a league source told ESPN.com. .... Because the Heat have already used the taxpayer’s mid-level exception to sign Allen, Miami would only be able to offer Harrellson a minimum contract for 2012-13.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Going online now @espn: Sources say Wizards and free-agent swingman Martell Webster have agreed to terms on new contract. Link in a sec

--


Via Ira Winderman | South Florida Sun Sentinel
The Heat also have attracted the interest of free-agent center Chris Andersen, who recently bypassed a lucrative European offer and is believed to be amenable to a Heat offer at the NBA minimum salary, which is all the Heat, operating above the NBA salary cap, have available. Andersen was released earlier this summer by the Denver Nuggets under the league's amnesty provision that eases a team's luxury-tax liability.
--

[Interrohater]

Dirtiest Spur that I remember was Cherokee Parks.

Haha, I met that dude at the Palace one time. Cool as a fan, we hung out for about an hour and he was just a regular guy. Said most people didn't even recognize him. He sure as hell didn't dress like most ball players that went there.

[ace3g]

Alex Kennedy ‏@AlexKennedyNBA

The Minnesota Timberwolves are watching free agent big man Hassan Whiteside work out today in Houston.

[Obstructed_View]

Alex Kennedy ‏@AlexKennedyNBA

The Minnesota Timberwolves are watching free agent big man Hassan Whiteside work out today in Houston.

Hassan Whiteside actually working out should be newsworthy. They probably watched just because they couldn't believe it was happening.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

Houston Rockets, I'm told, have formally waived ex-Nets/Mavs/Celts center Sean Williams. Move actually happened Monday


Orlando Magic sign E'Twaun Moore

http://www.iamagm.com/article/orlando-magic-sign-etwaun-moore#.UD1r3aPF-So

[bklynspursfan]

Kurt Helin ‏@basketballtalk

Blatche, Whiteside, Tolliver in mix for Timberwolves roster http://dlvr.it/24Gjp2 #PBT #NBA


https://twitter.com/basketballtalk/status/240812186472169474

[elemento]

Orlando has a big glut right now. 17 players signed and too many BIGs.

Al Harrington, Andrew Nicholson, Glenn Davis, Josh McRoberts, Justin Harber, Kyle O'Quinn, Gustavo Ayon and Nicola Vucevic.

I think McRoberts will be waived and he could be a decent addition for the min.

[Redshadows]

Orlando has a big glut right now. 17 players signed and too many BIGs.

Al Harrington, Andrew Nicholson, Glenn Davis, Josh McRoberts, Justin Harber, Kyle O'Quinn, Gustavo Ayon and Nicola Vucevic.

I think McRoberts will be waived and he could be a decent addition for the min.
Spurs and Suns rumored to have interested in Ayon when he was in Euro.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Nets working out FA Cs Eddy Curry & Hilton Armstrong today & seeking vet C & SF. Billy King looking for next Gerald Green diamond in rough.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

NBA free agent Donte Greene suffered an ankle fracture while working out in Charlotte last Saturday, his agent Chris Luchey tells Y! Sports.

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Greene's expected signing with Nets this week now on hold due to pending surgery on ankle "with some type of fracture,"Chris Luchey tells Y!

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent F Josh Howard, a Winston Salem native, has been working out with Charlotte this week, sources tell Y! CHI, NY amongst interested.

[outmap]

Anyone interested in Sean Williams? An athletic power forward that play good defense. Only 25 years of age. Although known as a defender, he's not a liability on offense. Big enough to spot at center.

[8FOR!3]

I saw Williams play for Frisco last year.

I guess if Donte Green and Josh Howard are NBA players, why isn't Sean Williams?

[Bruno]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent F Josh Howard, a Winston Salem native, has been working out with Charlotte this week, sources tell Y! CHI, NY amongst interested.

It's a good news that Josh Howard isn't linked anymore with Spurs. I never wanted him.

[ace3g]

Hilton ArmstrongVerified ‏@H__Strong

Good Morning everyone. Just wanted to share some good news. I will be plays for Panathinaikos, a Great team in Greece!

[Obstructed_View]

Hilton ArmstrongVerified ‏@H__Strong

Good Morning everyone. Just wanted to share some good news. I will be plays for Panathinaikos, a Great team in Greece!

And his tweet already sounds like KBP.

[TimDunkem]

These guys are probably just coming in for workouts, but I figured this was the best place to post the information.


The San Antonio Spurs are bringing in two big men next week whose surnames together make up the name of a former NBA player and coach. Brian Butch and Warren Carter will work to make a name for themselves (http://www.projectspurs.com/2012-articles/august/carter-butch-in-for-workouts-next-week-spurs-next-week.html) in their professional basketball careers (http://hoopshype.com/rumors.htm#) as Butch Carter did, and for them, they likely see the Spurs as a place that could take them there. According to Keith Kreiter of Edge Sports International, a sports management company, said that Carter, a 6-9 Illinois grad with a bevy of international experience and a stint with the New York Knocks, will be in town next Tuesday and Wednesday. Kreiter noted on Twitter that Carter has played very well overseas the last few years. ProjectSpurs.com (http://www.projectspurs.com/2012-articles/august/carter-butch-in-for-workouts-next-week-spurs-next-week.html)

[TDMVPDPOY]

These guys are probably just coming in for workouts, but I figured this was the best place to post the information.

wtf are they going to bring in a real FKN BIG 7'0 in height...

[Obstructed_View]

Who the fuck are the New York Knocks?

[jyra]

David Pick ‏@IAmDPick (https://twitter.com/IAmDPick)

Hearing bullseye shooter Josh Akognon who signed an NBA out deal in China, has a 2-day workout w/ San Antonio Spurs on Sept 11-12.

5-11 PG :huh (https://twitter.com/IAmDPick)

[racm]

They're looking for the next Gary Neal, tbh.

Plus, it's a bunch of guys fighting for the last roster spot so I'm not thinking it's a very big deal.

[racm]

They're looking for the next Gary Neal, tbh.

Plus, it's a bunch of guys fighting for the last roster spot so I'm not thinking it's a very big deal.

[mountainballer]

Reyshawn Terry will work out with the Spurs.

[Duncan2177]

Reyshawn Terry will work out with the Spurs.

Scrubs :rolleyes

[timtonymanu]

Scrubs :rolleyes

Oh really? How could you be so sure? :rolleyes

[slick'81]

wait who is reshawn terry

[Obstructed_View]

Scrubs :rolleyes

Well, he's no superman...

[ace3g]

Emiliano Carchia ‏@SportandoBasket

The Indiana Pacers announced Thursday they have signed free agents Sam Young, Sundiata Gaines and Blake Ahearn to contracts

http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/43408/pacers-sign-young-ahearn-and-gaines.html

[timtonymanu]

I still get nightmares about Sam Young having a career series against RJ.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Brooklyn plans to conduct a free agent workout with forwards Dominic McGuire and Josh Childress early next week, league sources tell Y!

--

Nets stay away from McGuire, I think he would be a good fit with the Spurs

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Heat sign forward Jarvis Varnado and center Mickell Gladness.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Free agent forward Dominic McGuire has reached agreement on a deal with the Toronto Raptors, league sources tell Y! Sports.

[MR.SILVER&BLack]

Dammit

[Ice009]

This guy might have been worth a shot too. I wonder what the Spurs are looking for because I have no idea and it seems like they have no idea either.

Working out Jason Kapono, looking at other small guards, just wtf are they doing exactly? Maybe they are looking to go small and play Kawhi at PF?

[ace3g]

The reason why I liked players such as Dominic McGuire and James Singleton because they could play both SF and mobile PF spots. At this point I wouldn't mind Derrick Brown or Tyler Wilkerson because they are in that same mold.

During the WCF, the Spurs did face some trouble when either Kawhi or SJAX got in foul trouble. We didn't have another big SF that could defend and stay with Durant and Harden.

[Duncan2177]

I don't get the spurs sometimes.

[Ice009]

The reason why I liked players such as Dominic McGuire and James Singleton because they could play both SF and mobile PF spots. At this point I wouldn't mind Derrick Brown or Tyler Wilkerson because they are in that same mold.

During the WCF, the Spurs did face some trouble when either Kawhi or SJAX got in foul trouble. We didn't have another big SF that could defend and stay with Durant and Harden.

I agree with that too, especially with the Heat also using Lebron James at PF too. That's why I was also interested in Dominic McGuire myself.

The Spurs still need a mobile PF/C, but next on my list would be those SF/mobile PF types, we need another one of those as well because Bonner and Blair can't play that role. That, to me, is another critical hole that the Spurs need more depth in. Diaw would be able to do it if he went back to his Phoenix weight, but other than that we have only Kawhi and SJax that can fill that role.

I think we're on the same page here, and really most of us here are on the same page, but why are the Spurs looking at small guards and slow guard/slow forwards like Kapono?

[therealtruth]

I agree with that too, especially with the Heat also using Lebron James at PF too. That's why I was also interested in Dominic McGuire myself.

The Spurs still need a mobile PF/C, but next on my list would be those SF/mobile PF types, we need another one of those as well because Bonner and Blair can't play that role. That, to me, is another critical hole that the Spurs need more depth in. Diaw would be able to do it if he went back to his Phoenix weight, but other than that we have only Kawhi and SJax that can fill that role.

I think we're on the same page here, and really most of us here are on the same page, but why are the Spurs looking at small guards and slow guard/slow forwards like Kapono?

I don't think we ever used Green on Durant and I think that was a mistake. You never want to give great players the same looks.

[Ice009]

I don't think we ever used Green on Durant and I think that was a mistake. You never want to give great players the same looks.

I think Green was giving up too much height wise, but since we lost the series I guess that was something that was worth a shot. It's easy to say that now though, but overall Green was a little rattled so it was hard to play him.

I really liked Danny last season until that WCF series. Hopefully he can get even better this season, and push through that poor WCF series that he had and play all out this time with no fear.

I'm still a Danny Green fan and feel he can get even better. I think he can and will hit back hard this season.

[Duncan2177]

I think Green was giving up too much height wise, but since we lost the series I guess that was something that was worth a shot. It's easy to say that now though, but overall Green was a little rattled so it was hard to play him.

I really liked Danny last season until that WCF series. Hopefully he can get even better this season, and push through that poor WCF series that he had and play all out this time with no fear.

I'm still a Danny Green fan and feel he can get even better. I think he can and will hit back hard this season.

I would rather have Jackson or Leonard guard Durant the whole game than Green. Putting Green on Durant is a horrible matchup.

[therealtruth]

I would rather have Jackson or Leonard guard Durant the whole game than Green. Putting Green on Durant is a horrible matchup.

Green plays a tenacious defense that could have bothered Durant.

[Bruno]

http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2012/09/09/grant-hill-hasn-given-dream-championship/uYoMkuNNcCBZVYcYdEJJxH/story.html?s_campaign=sm_tw


Veteran center Ben Wallace has indicated that he would like to return to the NBA but it likely won’t be with the Pistons, who have begun a youth movement and plan to go with AndreDrummond, Austin Daye, and Jonas Jerebko as their primary big men. Wallace said he was retiring after last season but changed his mind in July and is looking for a deal .

Ben Wallace would be a fine addition for the end of the bench. He could be damn useful in some matchups like against the Lakers.

[ace3g]

Anyone surprised Ivan Johnson (RFA) is still available?

[Ice009]

http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2012/09/09/grant-hill-hasn-given-dream-championship/uYoMkuNNcCBZVYcYdEJJxH/story.html?s_campaign=sm_tw



Ben Wallace would be a fine addition for the end of the bench. He could be damn useful in some matchups like against the Lakers.

I wanted Ben Wallace a long time ago, not sure about now though. He could very well be useful though. Can he still rebound and play defense? Would he be better than Blair and Bonner in those areas, or has he fallen right off?

[Libri]

I wanted Ben Wallace a long time ago, not sure about now though. He could very well be useful though. Can he still rebound and play defense? Would he be better than Blair and Bonner in those areas, or has he fallen right off?

Wallace is a corpse but can still rebound better than Bonner.

[Bruno]

I wanted Ben Wallace a long time ago, not sure about now though. He could very well be useful though. Can he still rebound and play defense? Would he be better than Blair and Bonner in those areas, or has he fallen right off?

Yeah, Ben Wallace has aged lot. I don't see him as a player who can really fix Spurs broken bigmen rotation but more as a player for the deep end of the bench in the mold of a Massenburg or a Willis.

[Ice009]

I would LOVE to have Tony Massenburg back, would have loved to have him back in 2006, so I would be more than OK with Wallace in a Massenburg type of role.

[therealtruth]

Wallace is a corpse but can still rebound better than Bonner.

If Bonner is 5th big it shouldn't matter all that much. Pop just needs to hope Diaw can be his stretch 4. Bonner is not worth it. I believe if the Spurs had practiced with the unit that went 8-0 in the playoffs more they would have been able to win it all. They had their most success with a big rotation that was TD,Diaw,Splitter.

[ace3g]

Training camp roster news


Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Agent: Free agent Damion James agrees to deal with the Atlanta Hawks. http://tinyurl.com/96q25lk

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Free agent center Earl Barron has agreed to a non-guaranteed training camp deal with the Washington Wizards, league sources told Y! Sports.

Alex Kennedy ‏@AlexKennedyNBA

Hassan Whiteside worked out for the Heat today. He'll remain in Miami through Thursday, working out for Pat Riley and the coaching staff.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Josh Childress has agreed to a one-year deal with the Brooklyn Nets, league source tells Y! Sports.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Josh Childress' deal with Nets is non-guaranteed, league source tells Y! Sports. He will have to make roster in camp.

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

.@MiamiHEAT has agreed in principle to sign free agent guard Garrett Temple to a contract, a source tells Y! He played in Italy last season.

[Bruno]

Teams are starting to fill their training camp roster. I hope we will hear soon where Kenyon Martin will go because he is the last remaining free agent who can have some kind of positive impact for Spurs.

[Ice009]

wow Garrett Temple signing in Miami, I wonder what kind of contract it is? Just training camp invite?

That's very interesting as Bruce Bowen started to become Bruce Bowen when he played with the Heat under Pat Riley.

[bklynspursfan]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA
Y! Sources: In search of a deal, Tracy McGrady works out for a Western contender [Spurs] and plans another in the East.

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nba--tracy-mcgrady-works-out-for-spurs--to-meet-with-knicks.html

[crc21209]

McGrady? Another guard? Why? :lol

[CGD]

The reason why I liked players such as Dominic McGuire and James Singleton because they could play both SF and mobile PF spots. At this point I wouldn't mind Derrick Brown or Tyler Wilkerson because they are in that same mold.

During the WCF, the Spurs did face some trouble when either Kawhi or SJAX got in foul trouble. We didn't have another big SF that could defend and stay with Durant and Harden.

I like what I hear/see from Brown. Seems like he's good people. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUIv2Xf4KMY&feature=related

Appears he's a lefty and has some range too. Probably not as physical as Peterson, but a comparable option.

[ace3g]

Former Duck Ivan Johnson re-signs with Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks and Ivan Johnson have agreed on a new one-year deal for the 12-13 season.

Johnson was a restricted free agent.

Johnson went undrafted out of Cal State San Bernardino.
Via Chris Haynes/CSNNW

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/223508/Ivan_Johnson_Re_Signs_With_Hawks_On_One_Year_Deal# ixzz26T2zIEP6

[iManu]

23-year-old Hassan Whiteside averaged a block about every seven minutes (in very limited action, albeit) (this is theoretically quicker than Ibaka gets one).

In college, he lead the nation in blocked shots, has Conference USA's record, and also broke Marshall's single season (and career) record for blocked shots: all in his freshman year.

I know his knee took a hit, but why doesn't anyone ever really bring him up? He might be a bit of a project, but he's got the frame and defensive mindset.

[therealtruth]

McGrady? Another guard? Why? :lol

I'm guessing more Manu insurance.

[silverblackfan]

Celtics are signing Darko to the minimum.http://www.hoopsrumors.com/2012/09/celtics-to-sign-darko-milicic.html
Hey, its another big man...

[ace3g]

gary washburn ‏@GwashNBAGlobe

Marquis Daniels has agreed to a guaranteed deal with the Milwaukee #bucks. Daniels played with the #celtics the past few seasons.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Free agent guard Terrence Williams has agreed to a training camp contract with the Detroit Pistons, league sources tell Y! Sports.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Free agent center Hamady Ndiaye has agreed to a non-guaranteed camp deal with the Sacramento Kings, league source tells Y! Sports.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent forward @Adrien4 has agreed to non-guaranteed contract with Charlotte. Rockets, Clippers, Lakers, Spurs & Boston showed interest.

--

Not sure how I missed that tweet considering it mentioned the Spurs. Jeff Adrien's build is too similar to Blair's.

[loveforthegame]

Adrien played well for the Warriors not long ago. He's a hustle guy.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent forward Louis Amundson has signed a contract with the Timberwolves, his agent Mark Bartelstein said.

[racm]

Looking at Minny's roster they have 10 white guys out of 14 (counting Hispanics)

Rubio, Ridnour, Barea, Shved, Kirilenko, Budinger, Love, Pekovic, Stiemsma, Amundson.

Ku Klux Kahn tbh

[DesignatedT]

they have 10 white guys out of 14 (counting Hispanics)

?

[silverblackfan]

Heat have a liking for Spurs picks. Garrett Temple and now Jack McClinton is trying to make the team (Jack McClinton (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-heat/heat-blog/sfl-miami-heat-jack-mcclinton-s092412,0,1571570.story)

[Ice009]

I'd say Pat Riley had a huge hand in helping Bruce Bowen become the type of defensive player that he was. I wonder what he could do with Garrett Temple?

[racm]

Not surprised. Riley's the OTHER small-market maestro.

[mountainballer]

Heat have a liking for Spurs picks. Garrett Temple and now Jack McClinton is trying to make the team (Jack McClinton (http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-heat/heat-blog/sfl-miami-heat-jack-mcclinton-s092412,0,1571570.story)

Temple wasn't exactly a Spurs pick. he went undrafted in 2009. and the fact, that he already played for 6 different NBA teams and 2 D-league teams in 3 years, will have washed off his Spurs smell, if there was any.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

RT @christomasson: Anthony Tolliver tells FOX Sports Florida it will be a one-year minimum deal with Atlanta. Salary will be $915,852

[elemento]

Tolliver is definitely a decent pick for the min.

[Bruno]

Wesley Witherspoon will be at Spurs training camp:

https://twitter.com/Spooooooon11/status/250633220155113473

JUST GOT OFF THE PHONE WITH MY AGENT SAN ANTONIO IT IS FOR TRAINING CAMP IM EXCITED


Diante Garrett worked out for Spurs too:
https://twitter.com/kingarrett10

[RodNIc91]

^

Weasley witherspoon is another SF and Diante Garrett is a PG appearantly. What makes me wonder the most is that they are working out these tall SF. Do the staff think they will be able to make an inmediate contribution? Why not go with an expericied one like Dominic Mcguire if they are looking at these type of players?

[ace3g]

^

Weasley witherspoon is another SF and Diante Garrett is a PG appearantly. What makes me wonder the most is that they are working out these tall SF. Do the staff think they will be able to make an inmediate contribution? Why not go with an expericied one like Dominic Mcguire if they are looking at these type of players?

McGuire signed with the Raptors, but he was a player I was hoping would sign with the Spurs, a good candidate for that SF/PF mix.

--

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Free agent forward D.J. White has reached agreement on a one-year deal to play for the Shanghai Sharks, source tells Y! Sports.

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

White will be able to return to NBA at the end of the Chinese Basketball Association's season in March. He can be playoff-eliglble in NBA.

Emiliano Carchia ‏@SportandoBasket

Sixers will invite Dan Gadzuric to the training camp http://www.sportando.net/eng/usa/nba/44044/sixers-will-invite-dan-gadzuric-to-the-training-camp.html …

[lurker23]

^

Weasley witherspoon is another SF and Diante Garrett is a PG appearantly. What makes me wonder the most is that they are working out these tall SF. Do the staff think they will be able to make an inmediate contribution? Why not go with an expericied one like Dominic Mcguire if they are looking at these type of players?

A lot of training camp guys aren't really there to make the roster, but rather to provide extra bodies to throw in there for practices and preseason. Just speculating here, but I think that adding long SFs allows them to experiment a bit with small ball, and simultaneously keep Stephen Jackson's and Tim Duncan's minutes down during the preseason.

(For the record, I think Derrick Brown has a 50/50 shot of making the roster, whereas someone like Witherspoon has little chance of making it unless they break out unexpectedly.)

[MR.SILVER&BLack]

what ever happened to Al Thornton?

[mountainballer]

I give Brown a 90% chance. not just because I do think he is a NBA player, as I wrote in the other thread, Spurs need him (or a player like him) as fall back option for several trade scenarios at dead line. it will be better to carry him on the roster and make him familiar with the team and the system, than looking for a FA after deadline, if then a forward (likely Jack) is traded. they might not even find one of his qualities.
and they will like his personality and work ethic at the camp.

[racm]

Brown could also become a "small" stretch 4 if needed. If it means Bonner's out of the rotation come April...

[Bruno]

It looks like Tre' Kelley will be at Spurs camp:
https://twitter.com/ChampagneStains/status/250672479893344256

[bklynspursfan]

Spurs invite Wesley Witherspoon to camp


Witherspoon is a 6'9", 212 lbs., small forward and attended Memphis. Last season at Memphis, he averaged 7.2 points, shot 44% from the field, 36.5% from the three-point line, grabbed 3.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 22 minutes per game.

http://www.projectspurs.com/2012-articles/september/spurs-invite-forward-wesley-witherspoon-to-camp-looked-at-guard-diante-garrett.html

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Warriors sign guard Carlon Brown, guard/forward Lance Goulbourne, forward Rick Jackson & guard/forward Tarence Kinsey.

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Jazz sign free-agent center Brian Butch, forward Trey Gilder, forward Darnell Jackson and guard Chris Quinn.

[racm]

Wonder why Pop's so reticent on getting a 6 fouls-per-game center. Does that mean Tiago's gonna be taking more minutes?

[CGD]

Wonder why Pop's so reticent on getting a 6 fouls-per-game center. Does that mean Tiago's gonna be taking more minutes?

Center is not the problem. We probably have two of the best in the west at the 5. The real issues is PF. After Boris, we have nothing good.

[therealtruth]

Center is not the problem. We probably have two of the best in the west at the 5. The real issues is PF. After Boris, we have nothing good.

I thought we did well in the playoffs with a 3 man rotation of Duncan, Diaw, and Splitter.

[racm]

I thought we did well in the playoffs with a 3 man rotation of Duncan, Diaw, and Splitter.

Anyone not named Bonner or to a lesser extent Blair would be nice for depth. There are games when TD will be given DNP-OLD after all.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Sixers signed free agents Dan Gadzuric, Devin Searcy, Xavier Silas and Damien Wilkins. The Sixers' training camp roster now stands at 17.

[Spurs Brazil]

http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/120927_training_camp

Spurs Add Four to Training Camp Roster

SAN ANTONIO (Sept. 27, 2012) – The San Antonio Spurs today announced the addition of four players to their 2012-13 training camp roster.

The Spurs current roster stands at 18 players, and includes the additions of forwards Derrick Brown, Josh Powell, Tyler Wilkerson and Wesley Witherspoon

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Free agent F Kenyon Martin's preference is to play in NBA in 12-13 & he turned down offer from Israel Maccabi,his agent Andy Miller tells Y!


Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Kenyon Martin will only take minimum NBA contract in a "comfortable" team role,his agent Andy Miller tells Y! Nothing imminent with any team
--

Well Kenyon you are going to have to accept the minimum then...

[elemento]

Surprising to see Powell among them

Haven't heard about him for a long time

[MR.SILVER&BLack]

can K mart be in silver & black by the pre season? the spurs are the only contender that can offer him at chance at being a starter.

[Bruno]

Spurs could offer K-Mart a "comfortable" role as backup PF especially if they can't make it work with Blair.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine

RT @FisolaNYDN: Rasheed Wallace took his physical with the Knicks on Thursday

--

There were some tweets a while back he was doing some workouts with the Knicks but I didn't think he'd pass. Last time I saw him, was in some vid where he was at some pick up game type event in some no name gym, and he was way over weight.

[DesignatedT]

I'll take K-mart. Spurs might like Derrick Brown better though.

[ace3g]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA

Jannero Pargo has reached agreement on a one-year deal with Washington, agent Mark Bartelstein says.

Chris Mannix ‏@ChrisMannixSI

Sixers also sign center Mikki Moore.

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo

Lakers sign guard Chris Douglas-Roberts.

[ace3g]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo (https://twitter.com/SpearsNBAYahoo) Heat waive center Josh Harrelson and now have two open roster spots.

[Bruno]

Marc J. Spears ‏@SpearsNBAYahoo (https://twitter.com/SpearsNBAYahoo) Heat waive center Josh Harrelson and now have two open roster spots.

He would be a fine addition for Spurs.

[ace3g]

I'm still a bit worried about his foot speed, but he does have a quicker jumper than Bonner and a better rebounder

[DPG21920]

Miami is looking at Birdman - wonder if the Spurs have any interest not even taking into consideration off court troubles and such.

[DPG21920]

Also as a side note, a former Spur fan dream boy in Casspi has requested a trade from CLE

[Mel_13]

Miami is looking at Birdman - wonder if the Spurs have any interest not even taking into consideration off court troubles and such.

No chance.


Also as a side note, a former Spur fan dream boy in Casspi has requested a trade from CLE

I'd offer Bonner for him straight up.