Ten Things We Learned from RC Buford

[timvp]

R.C. Buford spoke with the press (http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/120711_buford) earlier today to announce the re-signing of Tim Duncan and Danny Green. He also talked about the Spurs' plans for the summer and their goals heading into next season. While it can be difficult to slice through Buford's doublespeak and endless cliches in order to arrive at his true feelings, here are ten conclusions I've drawn from his meeting with the press.

1. The Spurs Seek Continuity
Coming into the offseason, I suspected the Spurs would simply look to bring back the same team (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200663) and give it another go next season. Following Buford's spiel, we can say with supreme confidence that the Spurs are aiming to reload with the same pieces -- while obviously hoping for a happier ending.

"Our hope going into free agency was to bring the group back together and build on the momentum we had throughout the season," offered Buford.

2. Any Improvements Will Come Internally
Buford's best wordplay of the media session was when he explained why the Spurs wouldn't be going to battle next year with a replica of last season's squad.

"We won't go into the season with the exact same team we had last year," teased Buford. "There is a lot of opportunity for internal growth -- especially this summer when our players have an opportunity to work with our coaches in our gym unlike last offseason. And it's already started. Our young guys were back at work in June and with summer league next week, there's a structured summer program our young players can be a part of if they wish. We've seen what type of internal growth can occur and I know the group that will be with us this summer will benefit from that."

Buford went on to talk more about summer league action, which runs from July 15th through July 21st and will include five games for the Spurs: "We're always excited to see the summer league group. We saw Cory [Joseph] grow a lot in Austin and hopefully that translates to improved play everywhere. Kawhi [Leonard] had a role with our team this year and our hope is he gets to blow it out to see what else is behind the tires and gain confidence in exerting himself. And it's our first chance to get a look at Marcus Denmon."

I do think the Spurs have a lot of room for growth. It's not inconceivable that Joseph proves himself to be a legit NBA player. Denmon may surprise. Tiago Splitter should take another step forward. Green may blossom further. Even players like Gary Neal and DeJuan Blair can get better. And as far as Leonard is concerned, I don't know if anyone can predict what the final product will look like. In his rookie campaign, he consistently exceeded expectation at each juncture of his progression.

However, despite the potential growth, there are two counteracting elements to add to the equation. First of all, the more seasoned players on the roster -- namely the Big Three -- could negate the growth of the supporting cast by succumbing to Father Time. Secondly, it's inarguable that the competition in the Western Conference (namely the Thunder and Lakers) has even more room to improve over last season.

Thus, for the Spurs to emerge from the West next year, not only will the supporting cast need to grow, their growth will have to outpace the decline of the Big Three to a degree above which the competition improves. A tall task, indeed. But in my eyes, and apparently Buford's eyes, it's the best avenue given the possible routes.

3. Tim Duncan Feels Rejuvenated
While it was apparent from how he played, Buford talked about Duncan experiencing a bounce-back season last year. In the stretch run, Duncan played some of the best basketball he's played in years. Although Duncan making it through the season unscathed was important for his physical well-being, the impact was even greater on his mental outlook.

"I think it solidified in his mind how far he wanted to go into the future," said Buford when talking about Duncan's renaissance of sorts. "He played well throughout the season and felt better than he had in the past. In his mind, that's what was important. We're going to play him as long as he wants to play -- and then probably a couple days longer."

Can Duncan continue to play at the level he did last season? It's difficult to say he will with much confidence when looking at historical comparisons. Duncan will be 37 years old by the time the 2013 NBA Playoffs begin. In the history of the league, players that age who can contribute at a high level are few and far between.

Then again, with advances in training techniques and recovery methods, we're witnessing players being able to sustain a higher level of performance later into the careers. We know Duncan is going to put in the work to be at his best; let us hope the work pays off.

"This year was a fun year for him and I think he felt great," said Buford. "That goes into his training and how he takes care of himself."

4. The Spurs Made Danny Green a Priority
I stated my case about why the Spurs couldn't afford to lose Green (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200732). Buford, too, views Green as an integral part of the team going forward.

"Danny had a breakout year," Buford said of Green, who the Spurs inked to a contract worth a reported $11.3 million over three seasons. "He was a big part of the success we had this year -- especially with Manu [Ginobili] missing the early part of the season. It gave him an opportunity to become an important part of the team. We look forward to being able to bring Danny back and build on that going forward.

"He does a lot of things that work well here. He shoots the three ball well and he's becoming more comfortable in his offensive game. And from a defensive standpoint, he's great to have because he can matchup against big point guards and he can matchup against wings. Overall, coming into this previous season we felt we needed to get bigger and longer on the wings and Danny was an important part of fulfilling that."

If the Spurs were to have lost Green, it would have been a double whammy. Not only would the talent have been lost, the Spurs would have lost his salary slot completely. To replace him, the front office would've needed to use a salary exception -- eventually trickling down to a loss of another member of the core the Spurs wanted to retain.

"There are limiting factors that come along with the collective bargaining agreement," the Spurs general manager explained. "Danny Green played well last year. If we weren't unable to retain him, we would have been one chip short when it came time to replace him because the MLE was needed to fill a different need. By being able to use Danny's Bird rights, we were able to keep something that was going to be difficult to replace if he had gotten a terrific offer sheet that we would have been unable to match."

Heading into the offseason, Duncan was clearly the top priority. However, Green was very likely priority 1b. Thankfully, the feeling was mutual.

"From the time the season was over," said Buford, "he was focused on being here and we were focused on bringing him back."

5. The Erazem Lorbek Ship has Sailed
Since the Spurs are down to only being able to offer minimum contracts, bringing aboard Erazem Lorbek no longer appears to be possible. Buford confirmed that notion: "Erazem is going to go back to Barcelona next year. It would have been difficult to split the MLE and get Erazem and somebody else or get somebody else and have enough left for Erazem. It just didn't work out this summer."

It was always a longshot for the Spurs to be able to squeeze Boris Diaw and Lorbek into the 2012-13 roster. Though worth a try, the available money to spend made it an either-or proposition.

Reports indicate the Spurs have come to contract agreements with returnees Diaw and Patrick Mills along with 2009 second round draft pick Nando De Colo. However, since those three players are off preparing for the Olympics, the Spurs have yet to secure the necessary signatures. Buford, though, hinted that it's simply a matter of time.

"You are never completely done until you're done. And with the logistics that are in place for getting international contracts signed, we'll have something to announce when things get done."

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
The possibility of trading or even amnesthizing Matt Bonner has been bandied about since the copper-capped regular season marksman once again shot blanks in the playoffs. That dream, though, appears to be just that -- a dream. Buford, when discussing whether the Spurs need to add to their collection of bigmen, didn't hesitate to include Bonner when explaining the strength of the roster makeup.

Said Buford: "As far as our big rotation, we don't have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago, DeJuan, Matt and hopefully Boris, I'm not sure what our needs are there. We'd love to have an All-Star center but there are only two or three of those. Short of that, we have a diverse group that fits a lot of needs."

He didn't sound like a general manager who is concerned about adding an impact bigman; Buford sounds like a GM who is satisfied with the bigmen depth and will allow the coaches to figure out how the pieces fit.

7. DeJuan Blair May Return
Blair recently discussed his displeasure (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200965) regarding his benching in the last two playoff runs. Previously, there were reports that the Spurs were shopping their bowling ball of a bigman. However, when talking to the media, Buford didn't come close to closing the door on Blair.

"We understand the way he feels," said Buford. "If you look at the story he laid out, it's very true. While I don't think we have to apologize for the results, we understand the way DeJuan feels. We're looking to build the best team we can and we hope that DeJuan wants to be a part of that. If he tells Pop that he doesn't, then we'll address it and have opportunities elsewhere. In the meantime, we won't react to what a frustrated player says publicly."

Asked specifically if Blair has requested a trade, Buford said he has not. While this may be GM-speak and Buford may be actively looking to trade him behind the scenes, it's not unfathomable that Blair begins the season with the Spurs. His contract is inexpensive and still an asset to the franchise. By all accounts, Blair remains a respected teammate and he's able to produce -- statistically, at least -- when given minutes. If not offered something substantial, the Spurs could opt to simply milk the final ounces of value out of Blair's contract.

8. Expect the Spurs to Shop the Bargain Bin
By looking at how the Spurs structured the contracts they have doled out this summer, it appears as if they are leaving room to sign a player to a long-term deal at a minimum salary -- much like they did with Neal. Buford seemed to verify that assumption when describing what type of player the Spurs will look for next.

"We're hoping to get a couple more guys signed," said Buford, presumably speaking about Diaw, Mills and De Colo, "and then from that point we'll watch our summer league team. We'll start evaluating our guys and players on all the other summer league teams. And we'll see what comes to us."

To my ears, it sounds like Buford and his staff will be on the lookout for the next Neal. Perhaps the Spurs will sign a bargain veteran for the minimum if one becomes available, however that doesn't seem to be a priority at the moment.

9. James Anderson Won't Be Back
It was definitely a surprise to see James Anderson on San Antonio's summer league roster (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=201060). After the Spurs failed to pick up his third-year option, Anderson's agent reportedly asked for the Spurs to trade the former first rounder out of Oklahoma State -- but no trade materialized. Following the end of the season, one would have assumed the finalization of the divorce would be a formality. Apparently, though, Anderson thinks the best way to catch a suitor's eye is to flourish under the Spurs umbrella.

"It was as much James' idea as it was ours," clarified Buford. "We welcomed him back. He's a terrific person and has a lot of potential. Most often, when a guy is a free agent, he'll go try to find a spot somewhere else. But James trusted the development work of our coaches and wanted to continue to try to get better. He felt like this was a good venue and environment for that to happen. My hope is that James will go tear it up and make us look not-so-smart."

In other words: Good luck but farewell.

10. Tim Duncan's Back at Work Already
Duncan's work ethic is legendary. In the past, young players have talked about showing up to the practice facility in the dead of summer only to find Duncan in an empty gym working on defensive slides. Even though training camp is three months away, the Virgin Island native isn't taking it easy.

"Already this summer, he's back in here at it again," Buford said of Duncan. "Sean Marks is in the cold tub now because he tried to keep up with him."

While it wasn't a cinch to return as much of last year's team as the Spurs have evidently been able to bring back, Duncan's flexibility, loyalty and ability to see the big picture made it much easier.

"He made it clear that he wanted to be here. We laid out what our realities were and how we could put the best team around him. And he said he wanted to be a part of it."

Now let us all hope that these best laid plans indeed work out for the best.

[Man Mountain]

TiMvp your writing is getting better,,,,,to bad about Bonner tho.

[Dingle Barry]

Not sure what the front court needs are? We need an agile, spry, and long PF who help defend the rim. I guess I'll hitch my dream wagon to the Green kid from Bama.

[Nathan89]

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
The possibility of trading or even amnesthizing Matt Bonner has been bandied about since the copper-capped regular season marksman once again shot blanks in the playoffs. That dream, though, appears to be just that -- a dream. Buford, when discussing whether the Spurs need to add to their collection of bigmen, didn't hesitate to include Bonner when explaining the strength of the roster makeup.

Said Buford: "As far as our big rotation, we don't have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago, DeJuan, Matt and hopefully Boris, I'm not sure what our needs are there. We'd love to have an All-Star center but there are only two or three of those. Short of that, we have a diverse group that fits a lot of needs."

He didn't sound like a general manager who is concerned about adding an impact bigman; Buford sounds like a GM who is satisfied with the bigmen depth and will allow the coaches to figure out how the pieces fit.

Hopefully this is just a case of under promising and over delivering.

[slick'81]

as usual bonner is going no where and as our esteem gm said what could are needs next to timmy possibly be?!?

[mountainballer]

good read!

hmmm.
Buford still counts on Joseph to become a NBA player. and Denmon will get his chance?
that's: Tony, Manu, Danny, Nando, Mills, Neal, CJ, Denmon
even if the Spurs send 2 to the Toros, there are only so many roster spots.
can they really spend 8 spots on guards?

I guess it's like that: Neal will be gone either via trade for a future 2nd round pick, or he will be cut. Denmon will be talked into a year or two in Europe. Spurs have their connctions, this will help to find a team for him.

unfortunately this Spurs roster has more room for regression, than room for improvement. so we shouldn't count on a repeat of last years great run. (I just try to be realistic, not pessimistic)

our best chance will be:
KL continuous his way to become an all star player some day. this season he turns into a full time starter, delivers 12 and 6-7 and plays even better defense.
and
DG stabilizes his shot.
and
Boris get's in shape and get's a brain wash, that cures him from his must-not-shoot-it complex.

everything else won't have that much of a significant impact.

[venitian navigator]

About James Anderson : looks that the relationship between him and the team is good. That considered, there are too many guards and not enough forwards in the roster...and probably the best contract james can get after a good summer league will be the same the Spurs could offer to him.
If he shows improvenment in summertime, and considering he already knows our system, I'll have no doubt to resign him with a contract a la Neal as a third string sf. After all, neither Jackson nor Gino (that means two of the four wing players we have) are longterm projects...

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

About James Anderson : looks that the relationship between him and the team is good. That considered, there are too many guards and not enough forwards in the roster...and probably the best contract james can get after a good summer league will be the same the Spurs could offer to him.
If he shows improvenment in summertime, and considering he already knows our system, I'll have no doubt to resign him with a contract a la Neal as a third string sf. After all, neither Jackson nor Gino (that means two of the four wing players we have) are longterm projects...

Pretty sure there's a rule that prevents a team to re-sign their own players on rookie contracts whose options they haven't picked up to a deal smaller or larger than what they're originally supposed to get under the rookie scale. Or something along these lines.

[Mel_13]

amnesthizing Matt Bonner

:lol

I was hoping that all the signings would push the payroll up against the limits of the apron and either force an amnesty or at least make it too financially attractive to resist. It appears, however, that the Spurs have figured out how to fit all the contracts into the budget. Too bad.




Pretty sure there's a rule that prevents a team to re-sign their own players on rookie contracts whose options they haven't picked up to a deal smaller or larger than what they're originally supposed to get under the rookie scale. Or something along these lines.

If the player was a first round draft pick, just completed the second year of his rookie scale contract, and his team did not exercise its option for the third season (see question number 48), then the team cannot use the Early Bird exception to re-sign him to a salary greater than he would have received had the team exercised its option. In other words, teams can't decline an option year in order to get around the rookie salary scale and give the player more money.

http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q25

[Redshadows]

He didn't sound like a general manager who is concerned about adding an impact bigman; Buford sounds like a GM who is satisfied with the bigmen depth and will allow the god to figure out how the pieces fit.

fify.

Only god could make the bigmen depth better with Bonner and Blair.

[mudyez]

my favorite reads(with trend):

1. timvp ^1
2. bill simmons v1
3. mavs>spurs =

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

If the player was a first round draft pick, just completed the second year of his rookie scale contract, and his team did not exercise its option for the third season (see question number 48), then the team cannot use the Early Bird exception to re-sign him to a salary greater than he would have received had the team exercised its option. In other words, teams can't decline an option year in order to get around the rookie salary scale and give the player more money.

http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q25

Cheers Mel :toast

[Holt's Cat]

If Splitter and Diaw play as well as they are capable of, then the limitations of Bonner and Blair don't matter as much.

Also, not to be a Bonner apologist, but he has helped to win a number of regular season games and his contract is below the league average. Not bad for a stretch 4 who hits 40%+ from 3 in the regular season. It sounds like RC has accepted the fact that he disappears come playoff time.

[intlspurshk]

Internal growth is not going to take the team to the promised land, especially Bonner is still around. Damn!!!

Despite RC's official comments, I really doubt SPURS will not consider any trade possibility especially involving Splitter based on the way Pop use him.

[mudyez]

Yeah...No problem with keeping Bonner (amnestizing him just costs Peter Money and its not like we get anything for him via trade) as long as he gets benched come April.

I'm really curious if he gets booed at seasons start.

[Mel_13]

I'm really curious if he gets booed at seasons start.

He won't.

Strangely enough, Bonner has been a crowd favorite at the AT&T Center. If RJ didn't get booed, Bonner won't either.

[spurspokesman]

Classic case of doing the same thing and expecting a different result. Most believe a full training camp will make us better. I agree but it will also make the thunder better and every other nba team so in the end you have the same result. Shame that A world class FO couldnt string together a tough big with defensive tools in nearly six years. I get it we have a shoe string budget but man did they drop the ball on a few good bigs.

[TimDunkem]

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
The possibility of trading or even amnesthizing Matt Bonner has been bandied about since the copper-capped regular season marksman once again shot blanks in the playoffs. That dream, though, appears to be just that -- a dream. Buford, when discussing whether the Spurs need to add to their collection of bigmen, didn't hesitate to include Bonner when explaining the strength of the roster makeup.

Said Buford: "As far as our big rotation, we don't have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago, DeJuan, Matt and hopefully Boris, I'm not sure what our needs are there. We'd love to have an All-Star center but there are only two or three of those. Short of that, we have a diverse group that fits a lot of needs."

He didn't sound like a general manager who is concerned about adding an impact bigman; Buford sounds like a GM who is satisfied with the bigmen depth and will allow the coaches to figure out how the pieces fit.
:bang :pctoss

[weebo]

The team as is will not contend for a championship. A lot of guys last year played out of their mind and we still didn't ring.

The Spurs still need that one big guy that can help patrol the paint alongside Timmy.

[racm]

No, a tweener forward will be better. As much as we all wish for the Turd Towers to be flipped for even the rawest big who can protect the rim, even if he's named Hasheem Thabeet, quality big men are snatched up left and right by teams with cap space.

The Spurs have no cap space and aren't in a position to go into luxury tax territory either.

[Hoops Czar]

The Spurs should take a shot with Greg Oden. He might be willing to sign at next to nothing just to play basketball and prove himself. And if it works, he'll be the shotblocking defensive minded center this team definitely craves, and if not, it won't cost the Spurs much pain and suffering. Maybe they'll can catch lightning in a bottle because its about all they can afford at this point.

[racm]

I'll take a flyer on Oden, but didn't he say he'd take a break this season?

[Ocotillo]

I am not convinced he content going into the season with the set of bigs he has. Your point (and great write up by the way) is correct that what he said at this presser makes it sound that way but I contend the front office is too smart to know they stand pat with this bunch. He may well go into this season with the bigs we have because he is also smart enough not to make a trade, just to make a trade.

As others have said, we have a lot of depth at guard and if the right deal comes along, it would make sense for Neal to be packaged with one of the bigs. Maybe it happens at the trade deadline but they are going to have to thin out the guard depth by the end of training camp.

I don't disagree with your perception that R.C. is going forward with the same crew on the front line going forward but logically the Mr. Spock in me says something will happen.

[Ocotillo]

^^ I don't usually speak that badly but am hurrying because I should be working rather than reading my favorite Spurs board.

[Juventini]

I want to add one more thing. The reason that they were trying to brought the same team back is that the players themselves believe that they could have won it all and they still think they should win it all.

Remember what Parker said last summer about Spurs will still have a good team but they won't be a championship team? Nobody said such a word after that amazing run we had last year. It's important for the players to believe in themselves and especially in their teammates( minus Bonbon of course :D )

[racm]

I am not convinced he content going into the season with the set of bigs he has. Your point (and great write up by the way) is correct that what he said at this presser makes it sound that way but I contend the front office is too smart to know they stand pat with this bunch. He may well go into this season with the bigs we have because he is also smart enough not to make a trade, just to make a trade.

As others have said, we have a lot of depth at guard and if the right deal comes along, it would make sense for Neal to be packaged with one of the bigs. Maybe it happens at the trade deadline but they are going to have to thin out the guard depth by the end of training camp.

I don't disagree with your perception that R.C. is going forward with the same crew on the front line going forward but logically the Mr. Spock in me says something will happen.

Considering the FO has a lot of time to move Bonner and Blair I wouldn't be surprised. Plus, SA never telegraphs its moves. Notice how we didn't get the Green/Diaw/Mills/Duncan re-signings until a few hours before the end of the moratorium?

[SenorSpur]

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
The possibility of trading or even amnesthizing Matt Bonner has been bandied about since the copper-capped regular season marksman once again shot blanks in the playoffs. That dream, though, appears to be just that -- a dream. Buford, when discussing whether the Spurs need to add to their collection of bigmen, didn't hesitate to include Bonner when explaining the strength of the roster makeup.

Said Buford: "As far as our big rotation, we don't have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago, DeJuan, Matt and hopefully Boris, I'm not sure what our needs are there. We'd love to have an All-Star center but there are only two or three of those. Short of that, we have a diverse group that fits a lot of needs."

He didn't sound like a general manager who is concerned about adding an impact bigman; Buford sounds like a GM who is satisfied with the bigmen depth and will allow the coaches to figure out how the pieces fit.

Of all the things Buford had to say, THIS is perhaps THE most disturbing. As far as the big rotation, he's not sure what their needs are? Are you kidding me? Did he not watch the WCFs versus the Thunder? Did he not watch the manner in which the Grizzlies bullied the Spurs in the paint in that epic playoff upset a year ago? :huh

By now, it is evident to everyone involved - including all Spurs opponents - that Bonner isn't a strength, but an established liability - especially come playoff time. It's also no secret that Duncan is getting older. As such, he needs additional help, as opposed to trying to prop up a severly-limited cast of undersized bigs, such as what the Spurs currently have in place. :cuss

As a GM, I know that Buford can't show his hand and one can only hope that all this prattle about Bonner and the Spurs frontcourt is only GM-speak. This is a smart front office and logic tells me that they cannot seriously believe this team is well-equipped enough in the frontcourt to contend with the likes of OKC and the Fakers. I just cannot believe that they seriously are ready to ride another year with a severly limited, playoff-choker, like Bonner. :shootme

Because if I'm wrong and if Buford truly believes this team's frontcourt rotation is fine as currently constructed, then he's as delusional as Jerry Jones - and that goes for Pop too. Then they will have truly wasted the final years of Duncan's brilliant career. :bang

[loveforthegame]

Such depressing news about Bonner and Blair. :depressed

[Bruno]

I won't read as much into what RC is saying, especially with Spurs being fine with their bigmen. If Spurs want to improve their roster, it will likely be through a trade. They must avoid to appear like a team with needs because it will put them in a situation of weakness to negotiate a trade.

IMO, aside of the good news around Duncan health and motivation and James Anderson likely not coming back, there are very little to take from this interview.

[racm]

Yep, and RC doesn't seem to be the guy to telegraph moves simply because it puts the organization in a weak bargaining position.

Everyone wanted RJ out after he flamed out (hehe) in the playoffs, to the point everyone wanted him amnestied. Then bam, Golden State decides to tank, Milwaukee decides to acquire more firepower for a mid-season playoff push, and SA decides to get Captain Jack for Jefferson for only a first rounder. And then Charlotte waives a fat, unhappy Diaw and the Spurs swoop in and make him a playoff starter.

[Cant_Be_Faded]

the Matt Bonner situation is absolutely gut wrenching.

At this point we need to pray to the basketball gods that Bonner starts the season shooting 80% threes, his value reaches a temporary peak, and some pacer/golden statesque team wants to trade for him.

The log jam at guard is dumb, there's got to be more they can do to balance out this roster.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

So CIA...I love it!!

Get ready to see a trade involving 2 or 3 current Spurs players....

[benefactor]

I won't read as much into what RC is saying, especially with Spurs being fine with their bigmen. If Spurs want to improve their roster, it will likely be through a trade. They must avoid to appear like a team with needs because it will put them in a situation of weakness to negotiate a trade.

The goods.

The Spurs aren't just going to come out and bad mouth their assets. Perhaps they will roll with what they have, but if they weren't going to they most certainly would not come out and say "this player" or "that player" that is currently under contract and part of the rotation is no longer part of the plan.

[CGD]

Thanks for the write up.

I'm hoping Blair has an amazing stint with the Olympic squad to up his value.

[SenorSpur]

Agree. However for most us who've watched the Rocky Bonner Horror Show for the past four seasons, it's extremely plausible to think that Buford and Pop too, for that matter, will stand pat.

[Mel_13]

Agree. However for most us who've watched the Rocky Bonner Horror Show for the past four seasons, it's extremely plausible to think that Buford and Pop too, for that matter, will stand pat.

Given the assets available to make changes, that's entirely possible.

[timvp]

I won't read as much into what RC is saying, especially with Spurs being fine with their bigmen. If Spurs want to improve their roster, it will likely be through a trade. They must avoid to appear like a team with needs because it will put them in a situation of weakness to negotiate a trade.

RC usually isn't CIA. He's more of an avoider than someone who will say erroneous info to throw the press off the scent. It's not CIA Buford for a reason, tbh.

We can all hope that there's more to it but RC is usually WYSIWYG.

If it was Pop saying these things, that'd be totally different . . .

[Mel_13]

RC usually isn't CIA. He's more of an avoider than someone who will say erroneous info to throw the press off the scent. It's not CIA Buford for a reason, tbh.

We can all hope that there's more to it but RC is usually WYSIWYG.

If it was Pop saying these things, that'd be totally different . . .

Whether CIA or WYSIWYG, the bottom line is the same. The Spurs have put together a full roster that sits barely under the tax threshold. Any improvements to the big rotation will come from a minimum salary signing or a trade involving some of the players at the bottom of the roster. Either way, no reason to expect or project significant improvement.

So while they may be working towards improvement in that area, it can't be a realistic priority since they don't have the assets that are normally associated with acquiring a significant player.

[mountainballer]

Spurs will likely wait till free agency and amnesty moves have cooled down. which will be about one more week.
once the dust settles, there might be some teams left, with the need to fill/balance the roster. the fact that the Spurs roster is stacked, they are the perfect trade partner for 2/3/4 for 1 trades with teams that need to fill the roster. just look at the teams that will likely face this situation. (Suns? Blazers?)

[wildbill2u]

:lol

I was hoping that all the signings would push the payroll up against the limits of the apron and either force an amnesty or at least make it too financially attractive to resist. It appears, however, that the Spurs have figured out how to fit all the contracts into the budget. Too bad.





If the player was a first round draft pick, just completed the second year of his rookie scale contract, and his team did not exercise its option for the third season (see question number 48), then the team cannot use the Early Bird exception to re-sign him to a salary greater than he would have received had the team exercised its option. In other words, teams can't decline an option year in order to get around the rookie salary scale and give the player more money.

http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q25

Ah, but this is all about the rules on giving the player more money. Could the team offer less money than was the scale on his original rookie contract? I don't think Anderson has proved he's worth that much money.

[Mel_13]

Ah, but this is all about the rules on giving the player more money. Could the team offer less money than was the scale on his original rookie contract? I don't think Anderson has proved he's worth that much money.

Of course. They can offer him any amount between the minimum salary for a third year player and the amount he was due to receive in the third year of his rookie contract. I thought that was perfectly clear, sorry for any confusion.

[quentin_compson]

I guess it's like that: Neal will be gone either via trade for a future 2nd round pick, or he will be cut. Denmon will be talked into a year or two in Europe. Spurs have their connctions, this will help to find a team for him.



Neal should be too valuable a trade asset to be cut, shouldn't he? He is a proven shooter, and there are always teams who need players like that, especially if they won't get/demand too much money.

[SpurPadre]

Doesn't it sound like if they make any trades, it would be during the regular season? I guess we're going to have to be patient and it may be the smartest move to increase Bonner's stock. As we all know, Bonner only shows up in the regular season and maybe some team will get suckered into him after he hits a few threes against the Bobcats, Kings, and Pistons. We can only hope.

[mountainballer]

Neal should be too valuable a trade asset to be cut, shouldn't he? He is a proven shooter, and there are always teams who need players like that, especially if they won't get/demand too much money.

if Spurs think DeColo can deliver same or more and with Mills taking backup PG minutes, Neal won't see many minutes.
Neal's contract isn't guarranteed.
that's 850K that come off the books.
and the Spurs have a history to not block a player's way, if he could find a better place/deal somewhere else. if they cut him, he will no doubt get some decent offers and more PT, instead of rotting at the end of the bench.

[benefactor]

if Spurs think DeColo can deliver same or more and with Mills taking backup PG minutes, Neal won't see many minutes.
Neal's contract isn't guarranteed.
that's 850K that come off the books.
and the Spurs have a history to not block a player's way, if he could find a better place/deal somewhere else. if they cut him, he will no doubt get some decent offers and more PT, instead of rotting at the end of the bench.
I still don't think they cut him regardless of his contract situation. The Spurs are under the tax line with everyone signed so cutting a player that could be useful as a trade sweetener doesn't make much sense.

[rascal]

The Spurs will attempt to make a trade to add another frontline player. Lorbek was not the player that fit their plans. They really never wanted Lorbek this year anyways.

I expect the Spurs to target a defensive big . That doesn't mean the Spurs will pull it off(trade) but there is a high chance that they will get the player they are looking for to round out the roster.

[024]

spurs have always been patient, just lurking around until a good deal pops up. that's how they picked up jackson and diaw last season. it's a good strategy except the spurs get worse every year due to the declining big 3. even at their absolute best last year and some luck, they couldn't get past the thunder. the spurs can't keep up with the other teams without making a larger splash. but of course that comes with higher stakes, which i think the management is unwilling to gamble.

[ElNono]

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues

:smchode:

[temujin]

spurs have always been patient, just lurking around until a good deal pops up. that's how they picked up jackson and diaw last season. it's a good strategy except the spurs get worse every year due to the declining big 3. even at their absolute best last year and some luck, they couldn't get past the thunder. the spurs can't keep up with the other teams without making a larger splash. but of course that comes with higher stakes, which i think the management is unwilling to gamble.

The Spurs played far and away the best basketball in the league.
Textbook team basketball. Not even close.
Why should they change?
Winning the title is a totally different thing, and requires assets Spurs will not have for a long time, no matter what they do.

[Fabbs]

The 1 thing we learned should sum it up:

6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
Said Buford: "As far as our big rotation, we don't have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago, DeJuan, Matt and hopefully Boris, I'm not sure what our needs are there.---------------------------------------------

spurspokesman

Classic case of doing the same thing and expecting a different result. Most believe a full training camp will make us better. I agree but it will also make the thunder better and every other nba team so in the end you have the same result. Shame that A world class FO couldnt string together a tough big with defensive tools in nearly six years. I get it we have a shoe string budget but man did they drop the ball on a few good bigs.
Well said. We could hope for Coach Numb Nutts to include more Splitter. Day late and million dollars short but if Duncs can stay healthy at least maybe we'll see some Duncs/Splitter action together.

[temujin]

The Spurs will attempt to make a trade to add another frontline player. Lorbek was not the player that fit their plans. They really never wanted Lorbek this year anyways.

I expect the Spurs to target a defensive big . That doesn't mean the Spurs will pull it off(trade) but there is a high chance that they will get the player they are looking for to round out the roster.

They did target Lorbek, he was simply too good this year and commanding money they couldn't offer him.
Looking retrospectively, the year to bring in Lorbek was 2011. Time to move on.

[Drom John]

I think the management is willing to gamble ...
that the Thunder won't shoot that well.

[tesseractive]

RC usually isn't CIA. He's more of an avoider than someone who will say erroneous info to throw the press off the scent. It's not CIA Buford for a reason, tbh.

We can all hope that there's more to it but RC is usually WYSIWYG.

If it was Pop saying these things, that'd be totally different . . .
But it's the same thing either way, really. Until they find a trade they can make, they have to keep the team together and move forward. If there is no trade to make, they have to play out the string with what they have.

I can't imagine that RC was under any illusions last year about RJ, yet they went through the season with RJ because he's who they had. When a deal was a possibility, they traded him. I expect things with Bonner will go the same way until/unless an opportunity presents itself.

[rascal]

They did target Lorbek, he was simply too good this year and commanding money they couldn't offer him.
Looking retrospectively, the year to bring in Lorbek was 2011. Time to move on.

They didn't want Lorbek. If they wanted him bad enough he would be on the team.

They flat out told him that they were looking in another direction for a different type of frontline player. That holds more credibility than what RC said, that the team is all set with the frontline as it is.

[TimDunkem]

I think the management is willing to gamble ...
that the Thunder won't shoot that well.

That gamble worked out quite well in the WCF's.

[Spurs Brazil]

Great read. Thanks timvp

[Mr Fundamental]

Great read.

The best part is Tim's.

Legendary.

[Obstructed_View]

I won't read as much into what RC is saying, especially with Spurs being fine with their bigmen. If Spurs want to improve their roster, it will likely be through a trade. They must avoid to appear like a team with needs because it will put them in a situation of weakness to negotiate a trade.

IMO, aside of the good news around Duncan health and motivation and James Anderson likely not coming back, there are very little to take from this interview.

Agreed. In addition, even if Blair has actually asked for a trade, the Spurs probably wouldn't say that publicly, and would tell Blair to keep it under his hat so that they could have some negotiating leverage. Point out how great Bonner and Blair are, and someone might want to throw money at them.

[TD 21]

I won't read as much into what RC is saying, especially with Spurs being fine with their bigmen. If Spurs want to improve their roster, it will likely be through a trade. They must avoid to appear like a team with needs because it will put them in a situation of weakness to negotiate a trade.

IMO, aside of the good news around Duncan health and motivation and James Anderson likely not coming back, there are very little to take from this interview.

First of all, they're not a team with needs, at least not positionally. Second of all, no offense, but this is cliche nonsense. The reality is, every team around the league is acutely aware of all of the other teams situations. You don't think the other 29 teams don't know that the Spurs would like to move Blair and that Blair wouldn't mind being moved, but that they're not exactly desperate to move him? I realize they would never admit to this, but even if they did, it wouldn't change a thing.

timvp, I disagree about room for internal improvement. Not that there's none, but in short order, this team has quickly shifted more towards older and athletically deficient again. They're not back to '08 levels in those respects, but the rotation does consist of six players on the wrong side of 30 and of the four under 30, only Leonard would seem to have the potential for significant improvement. Splitter, Green and Mills, could improve, but probably no more than incrementally. Joseph and Denmon are irrelevant, as neither has a shot at being in the rotation (barring injuries, of course). Blair is 50/50 to return, but again, barring injury, won't be in the rotation either way and Neal is a virtual lock to be traded.

This is not like the past few summers, when significant internal improvement was a strong possibility. Hoping for/expecting that is akin to thinking the defense will significantly improve with more practice time. As we saw in the playoffs and have seen time and time again in recent seasons, that's fools gold. Teams that defend well are teams that either have an elite defensive anchor who can log major minutes, a lot of plus defenders or both. This team has neither. The same logic applies here. Teams with room for significant internal improvement either underachieved for whatever reason(s) the previous season, have a lot of young players with a lot of room for growth or both. Again, this team has neither.

[timvp]

Speaking of Bonner and amnesty, today would be the day to do it if the Spurs were going to pull the trigger. If they waited any longer, the teams looking to claim a cheap bigman will have already used their money on Brand, Scola, Darko or Haywood.

Too bad it's a pipe dream, though.

[Bruno]

Speaking of Bonner and amnesty, today would be the day to do it if the Spurs were going to pull the trigger. If they waited any longer, the teams looking to claim a cheap bigman will have already used their money on Brand, Scola, Darko or Haywood.

Too bad it's a pipe dream, though.

If I've well understood the amnesty process ( http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q67 ) saying money through a Bonner amnesty will be hard to do for Spurs.

The last year of Bonner's contract is only $1M guaranteed with a $4M salary. If a team claim Bonner for $4M ($2M per year), then amnestying Bonner will only save $1M to Spurs.

Unless Spurs do a trade that push them above the tax, there are very little financial incentives of amnestying Bonner now. Even if Pop hated him, keeping him would be the right move to do because his contract could eb a nice trade asset next June.

[slick'81]

again bonner doesnt make enough to be worth cutting not gonna happen

[BackHome]

The team as is will not contend for a championship. A lot of guys last year played out of their mind and we still didn't ring.

The Spurs still need that one big guy that can help patrol the paint alongside Timmy.

We have a good team but to win the ring we need a tough center and someone who can score by either taking the ball to the rim or making a three pointer....The opposite of Boner....

[dbestpro]

Look for Bonner to be used in a midseason trade some time in January.

[ElNono]

tbh, if they were really looking at Lorbek and shopping Blair, I can't think they're necessarily happy with the frontcourt... I don't expect RC to go out there and say it either...

[racm]

It's not like the Spurs have no time to make trades.

Bonner is good in the regular season but shrinks in the playoffs, as we all know. That means Pop has time to make him produce threes to win season games while at the same time tracking prospect bigs to replace him.

[dbestpro]

I also think that the Spurs might see Ajinca as that surprise player that can get signed for the minimum.

[ColinB]

I learned he is still on the juice just from that.

[Spur|n|Austin]

Great read, thanks. I'm somewhat thinking he's speaking in GM talk and has different motives in a CIA sense.. We will see, but shopping the bargain bin seems to be the ultimate plan in terms of adding any more depth to this team. We think KL played a big role as a rookie this season, just wait.. This team should be hungry and ready to go back to war.

[ViceCity86]

Sounds like the fat cat is full.

[ThaBigFundamental21]

God Damn, that was enjoyable to read Timvp!!!

[ThaBigFundamental21]

My opinion is, if the Spurs are to have any shot whatsoever at a title, they have to give Splitter about 30 minutes a game. Like him, hate him, whatever. We are only going as far as our big men can take us. We know what Tim, Diaw, and Blair can offer. We don't really know all Splitter can bring. He has room to grow and if Pop is wise he will explore his abilities more and pair him with Duncan.

[BatManu20]

#6 ..in other words, we can't afford another good player at PF or Center so were stuck with the average bench players we have now so let's have fun making the 2nd round of the playoffs this year, maybe even the WCF, before we are sent home again. Oh well.

[ElNono]

I can't imagine that RC was under any illusions last year about RJ, yet they went through the season with RJ because he's who they had. When a deal was a possibility, they traded him. I expect things with Bonner will go the same way until/unless an opportunity presents itself.

The thing with RJ is that the previous summer there were rumors that the Spurs were trying hard to package him with offers they received for Parker. So you knew they were looking to get rid of him. After the amnesty was announced in the new CBA, the Spurs using it on RJ was another rumor ongoing until the season started.

Other than shopping Blair, you don't really hear anything about the Spurs trying to move Bonner. I really think they're in love with him. Carcass of Michael Finley kind of love.

[Solid D]

Well done, LJ! Having seen the video prior to reading this recap, it matches up well quite accurately.


6. The Matt Bonner Era Continues
The possibility of trading or even amnesthizing Matt Bonner has been bandied about

Possibility? Matt has been anesthetized since May.

:smokin

[therealtruth]

First of all, they're not a team with needs, at least not positionally. Second of all, no offense, but this is cliche nonsense. The reality is, every team around the league is acutely aware of all of the other teams situations. You don't think the other 29 teams don't know that the Spurs would like to move Blair and that Blair wouldn't mind being moved, but that they're not exactly desperate to move him? I realize they would never admit to this, but even if they did, it wouldn't change a thing.

timvp, I disagree about room for internal improvement. Not that there's none, but in short order, this team has quickly shifted more towards older and athletically deficient again. They're not back to '08 levels in those respects, but the rotation does consist of six players on the wrong side of 30 and of the four under 30, only Leonard would seem to have the potential for significant improvement. Splitter, Green and Mills, could improve, but probably no more than incrementally. Joseph and Denmon are irrelevant, as neither has a shot at being in the rotation (barring injuries, of course). Blair is 50/50 to return, but again, barring injury, won't be in the rotation either way and Neal is a virtual lock to be traded.

This is not like the past few summers, when significant internal improvement was a strong possibility. Hoping for/expecting that is akin to thinking the defense will significantly improve with more practice time. As we saw in the playoffs and have seen time and time again in recent seasons, that's fools gold. Teams that defend well are teams that either have an elite defensive anchor who can log major minutes, a lot of plus defenders or both. This team has neither. The same logic applies here. Teams with room for significant internal improvement either underachieved for whatever reason(s) the previous season, have a lot of young players with a lot of room for growth or both. Again, this team has neither.

I thought the defensive number were kind of decent through the first two rounds. Even the first 2 games against the Thunder. Having guys like Diaw and Splitter playing more minutes over Blair/Bonner helps because there is less need to help in the post and guys can actually be more aggressive on the perimeter. Going back to single coverage and less help would solve alot of our defensive problems. Would OKC shoot so well from midrange if there was even a guy within 2 feet of them to contest the shot?

[BackHome]

My opinion is, if the Spurs are to have any shot whatsoever at a title, they have to give Splitter about 30 minutes a game. Like him, hate him, whatever. We are only going as far as our big men can take us. We know what Tim, Diaw, and Blair can offer. We don't really know all Splitter can bring. He has room to grow and if Pop is wise he will explore his abilities more and pair him with Duncan.

We need to hire an assistant coach that knows how to and develop bigs because Pop sure as hell doesn't.

[therealtruth]

My opinion is, if the Spurs are to have any shot whatsoever at a title, they have to give Splitter about 30 minutes a game. Like him, hate him, whatever. We are only going as far as our big men can take us. We know what Tim, Diaw, and Blair can offer. We don't really know all Splitter can bring. He has room to grow and if Pop is wise he will explore his abilities more and pair him with Duncan.

I agree. If we still had the version of Splitter from the RRT there's no doubt we win it all. He really regressed from that point onward in confidence and everything. The only way to nurture that confidence is to give him enough minutes. He has to get enough opportunities to post up on the block and run the offense through him. Diaw also has a post game. The Spurs really need to add more post scoring. It can't just be TD.

[Duncan2177]

This article is a couple of days old


Buford indicated no pressing need to add another big man.


“As far as our big rotation, we don’t have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago (Splitter), DeJuan (Blair), Matt (Bonner) and hopefully bringing Boris back, I’m not sure where our needs are there,” Buford said. “We’d love to have an All-Star center but there’s only two or three of those. Short of that, I think we’ve got a pretty diverse group that fills a lot of needs.”
Reading between the lines, it doesn’t appear there is any imminent plan to move either Blair or Bonner at the moment.
*Speaking of Blair, Buford seemed unfazed by the fourth-year big man’s comments to the Express-News, indicating he expected to be traded or otherwise moved this offseason.
“We understand the way he feels,” Buford said. “If you look at the story he laid out, it’s very true. And while I don’t think we have to apologize for the results that the team built, DeJuan, we understand the way he feels and we’re looking forward in building the best team we can, and our hope is that DeJuan wants to be a part of that.


“If he comes and tells Pop (coach Gregg Popovich) he doesn’t, I think they’ll address it and then we’ll have opportunities elsewhere if we need to, but I don’t think anyone’s going to react to what a frustrated player says publicly.”

* Former Texas standout Alexis Wangmene, Buford’s adopted son, has been named to the Spurs’ summer league roster. Buford joked a guaranteed contract was on its way.
“You didn’t hear he was starting?” Buford deadpanned. “That was part of Tim’s negotiations, that Tim had to come off the bench to make room for Alexis.”

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2012/07/12/buford-talks-lorbek-blair-and-big-men/

[Mel_13]

R.C. Buford spoke with the press (http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/120711_buford) earlier today to announce the re-signing of Tim Duncan and Danny Green. He also talked about the Spurs' plans for the summer and their goals heading into next season. While it can be difficult to slice through Buford's doublespeak and endless cliches in order to arrive at his true feelings, here are ten conclusions I've drawn from his meeting with the press.

1. The Spurs Seek Continuity
Coming into the offseason, I suspected the Spurs would simply look to bring back the same team (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=200663) and give it another go next season. Following Buford's spiel, we can say with supreme confidence that the Spurs are aiming to reload with the same pieces -- while obviously hoping for a happier ending.

"Our hope going into free agency was to bring the group back together and build on the momentum we had throughout the season," offered Buford.

Pop endorsed this in his interview last night. Starting around the 2:20 mark:

Q: What type of ballplayers are you looking to add to your team?

A: None. We're pretty loaded up right now. We signed basically all the guys from last year.

http://www.nba.com/video/games/hawks/2012/07/15/1521200012_SAS_popovich_intv.nba/

[SA210]

Pop endorsed this in his interview last night. Starting around the 2:20 mark:

Q: What type of ballplayers are you looking to add to your team?

A: None. We're pretty loaded up right now. We signed basically all the guys from last year.

http://www.nba.com/video/games/hawks/2012/07/15/1521200012_SAS_popovich_intv.nba/

His way of saying, "Fuck you, fans!"

[Dex]

Buford indicated no pressing need to add another big man.


“As far as our big rotation, we don’t have Dwight Howard but between Tim, Tiago (Splitter), DeJuan (Blair), Matt (Bonner) and hopefully bringing Boris back, I’m not sure where our needs are there,” Buford said. “We’d love to have an All-Star center but there’s only two or three of those. Short of that, I think we’ve got a pretty diverse group that fills a lot of needs.”


http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2012/07/12/buford-talks-lorbek-blair-and-big-men/

This is the kind of mentality that drives me nuts.

Yes, we do have a diverse group of bigmen who fill a lot of needs. We have big men who can shoot, big men who can assist, big men who can perform the pick & roll. Unfortunately, those are mostly not the needs that you expect to be filled by big men. When it comes to those needs....rebounding, post defense, physicality in the paint, we only have one big man who really excels in those areas, and he's on the short side of 30.

Just because we have four guys who are moderately big, does not mean that the big-man role is filled.

[Bruno]

If Spurs were so fine with what they have at PF/C, they wouldn't have been rumored as a team wanting Scola had he cleared waivers.

I won't judge Spurs front office on what they but on what they do. So far, it's been a very good off-season for Spurs but there are still some work to do.

[jjktkk]

His way of saying, "Fuck you, fans!"

Now I know why you usually just use other members quotes. :lol

[SA210]

Now I know why you usually just use other members quotes. :lol

Get off the nuts. You can quote me.

[DMC]

Solid piece.

I've long said that the Spurs are milking the Duncan, big 3 era for all it's worth. They are profit minded. They want to sell season tickets, and keeping people around that ticket holders recognize is their way of saying that ticket sales >>>>> championships.

Actually, there comes a point when you have to harvest what you've toiled away at sewing, and the Spurs are doing that now. Some teams just spend constantly trying to get the owner some ego boost, but the Spurs run like an enterprise, profit minded people who believe they make money by delivering a good, consistnt level of product year after year, and they shy away from the get rich quick schemes of seling the farm for hyped up highschoolers.

[DMC]

I agree. If we still had the version of Splitter from the RRT there's no doubt we win it all. He really regressed from that point onward in confidence and everything. The only way to nurture that confidence is to give him enough minutes. He has to get enough opportunities to post up on the block and run the offense through him. Diaw also has a post game. The Spurs really need to add more post scoring. It can't just be TD.
Bro, aint nobody winning a title this year but the Heat.

[Sean Cagney]

Bro, aint nobody winning a title this year but the Heat.

You are probably right all things considered.

[therealtruth]

Bro, aint nobody winning a title this year but the Heat.

To get back in title contention the Spurs are going to need to improve their post scoring and defense.

[racm]

...Which are things that can be done in training camp. If Kawhi can develop a post game...

[100%duncan]

B:lolnner

[DMC]

You are probably right all things considered.
Considering no one is playing again this year, but you know what I meant.

There are no moves the Spurs can make that will make them contenders at that level. Their only hope is that other events unfold during the year that gives them a chance, but they probably don't hold out for that hope.