Spurs Sign Eddy Curry

[jermaine]

It's getting funny cuz on pg1 people was making fun of Curry an now people giving him the hands up. This board flipflops like crazy.

[Leetonidas]

If Danny Green goes 9-22 instead of 4-22 on three pointers, we probably win that series, he really shit the bed imo and it killed our perimeter game

[baseline bum]

It's getting funny cuz on pg1 people was making fun of Curry an now people giving him the hands up. This board flipflops like crazy.

No, Curry is still a piece of crap who likely won't make the team.

[elemento]

While I do agree with you that Splitter sucked in the OKC series, you simply can't say that Splitter struggling was the biggest reason to why we lost that series. Splitter played 8.8 minutes/game and in the game he played the most, he played 12 minutes.

To me there were 2 bigger factors :

1 - Parker could not adapt when OKC put Sefolosha on him. And his game (and SA's offense) took a big hit when OKC started to switch in the P&R. SA's offense got stucked after that.

2 - Green missing open 3 pointers and completely losing his confidence was a much bigger factor. Green played more minutes and was starting for SA. He played so bad that Manu had to start again and Neal had to run the 2nd unit, something that we can all agree is a bad idea.

I still think SA can beat OKC ..I think it's a better match-up than LA tbh.

[baseline bum]

While I do agree with you that Splitter sucked in the OKC series, you simply can't say that Splitter struggling was the biggest reason to why we lost that series. Splitter played 8.8 minutes/game and in the game he played the most, he played 12 minutes.

To me there were 2 bigger factors :

1 - Parker could not adapt when OKC put Sefolosha on him. And his game (and SA's offense) took a big hit when OKC started to switch in the P&R. SA's offense got stucked after that.

2 - Green missing open 3 pointers and completely losing his confidence was a much bigger factor. Green played more minutes and was starting for SA. He played so bad that Manu had to start again and Neal had to run the 2nd unit, something that we can all agree is a bad idea.

I still think SA can beat OKC ..I think it's a better match-up than LA tbh.

Splitter playing so badly he could only be out on the floor 5.5 minutes per game for the last three was pretty devastating to the team's chances.

[therealtruth]

While I do agree with you that Splitter sucked in the OKC series, you simply can't say that Splitter struggling was the biggest reason to why we lost that series. Splitter played 8.8 minutes/game and in the game he played the most, he played 12 minutes.

2 - Green missing open 3 pointers and completely losing his confidence was a much bigger factor. Green played more minutes and was starting for SA. He played so bad that Manu had to start again and Neal had to run the 2nd unit, something that we can all agree is a bad idea.



Splitter was a one trick pony by the time the playoffs arrived and when the Thunder started switching on P&R that trick was gone. Don't forget how his pick and roll ability helped turn the tide in game 1.

Green's struggling to me is a partial indictment of TP's playmaking abilities. When a guy's struggling you've got to figure out ways to get him easy baskets to get going. You can't just leave him taking contested jumpers.

[racm]

While I do agree with you that Splitter sucked in the OKC series, you simply can't say that Splitter struggling was the biggest reason to why we lost that series. Splitter played 8.8 minutes/game and in the game he played the most, he played 12 minutes.

To me there were 2 bigger factors :

1 - Parker could not adapt when OKC put Sefolosha on him. And his game (and SA's offense) took a big hit when OKC started to switch in the P&R. SA's offense got stucked after that.

2 - Green missing open 3 pointers and completely losing his confidence was a much bigger factor. Green played more minutes and was starting for SA. He played so bad that Manu had to start again and Neal had to run the 2nd unit, something that we can all agree is a bad idea.

I still think SA can beat OKC ..I think it's a better match-up than LA tbh.

And yet the Spurs still took them to 6 games, maybe 7 if Stern didn't tell Crawford et al to hurry up the WCF.

[ace3g]

Spurs perimeter defense wasn't that great , which is why I would prefer if Brown (still needs to show something) or Wilkerson makes the roster. We did fine against the bigger Cs this year.

[CGD]

I kind of feel the Curry thing is n insurance policy for when splitter demands his pay day

[Hoops Czar]

And yet the Spurs still took them to 6 games, maybe 7 if Stern didn't tell Crawford et al to hurry up the WCF.

Oh, that,s right, the conspiracy theorists are in full bloom this fall. It's all Stern's fault.

[Gagnrath]

Oh, that,s right, the conspiracy theorists are in full bloom this fall. It's all Stern's fault.


No it wasn't all sterns fault but the way games were paced and officiated, this has also been shown by some other rules tweaks while sterns been in charge. He usually seems to have things tilted toward the team that makes the better promotional piece. Its not that it can't be overcome. Its that the less popular group is fighting an uphill battle. Moving screens and reaching in seem to be some of the favorite ways to determinate the slant of a game.

[ChuckD]

No, Curry is still a piece of crap who likely won't make the team.

[Russo21]

You can't teach size

[xellos88330]

Curry looked friggin good. (When he put for the effort)

[007nites]

How did Curry look in the scrimmages?

[ivanfromwestwood]

He might be in shape but his conditioning looks bad. Its to be expected but if he can't get his breath back, I don't see how he will be effective. He needs to look for a body to box out on rebounds. I seen him kinda flat footed just standing there looking at the rim. I've only seen him play a few mins but so far I don't see it happening. Hope he proves me wrong

[ChuckD]

You can't teach size

Plenty of big stiffs in the league proves that doesn't really matter. If we just needed size, we could have signed Ajinca. He's even bigger than Curry at 7'2" and has a HUGE wingspan.

[TimDunkem]

If Danny Green goes 9-22 instead of 4-22 on three pointers, we probably win that series, he really shit the bed imo and it killed our perimeter game

Personally, I saw it coming a mile away. Bonner is a given, to shit the bed, but I just had a feeling someone else would too; I figured it would be Green -- and it was. :depressed

[TD 21]

Spurs perimeter defense wasn't that great , which is why I would prefer if Brown (still needs to show something) or Wilkerson makes the roster. We did fine against the bigger Cs this year.

In theory, Brown is a good fit. But even if he makes it (which I'll concede is suddenly beginning to look like a long shot), he wouldn't play against the Thunder anyway and especially not in the playoffs.

I'd also like to have more depth at SF, but Green is a better third option than any fringe player. Besides, other than the Heat, the other elite teams lack either quality, depth or both, at SF, too.


Leetonidas, if Jackson didn't shoot out of his mind from three, then what? That part of it more or less evened out and was not the reason they lost. The Thunder shooting out of their minds on long two's and the refs (league?) deciding they were going to make sure the Spurs wouldn't win game 6, was.

[G-Dawgg]

I'd take Curry over Blair. We know he is capable of scoring if he's in shape and motivated, he's proven that by averaging 19/game in the past . Blair hasn't proven shit , and continues to disappoint. Also Blair losing weight only further undersizes him....

[ChuckD]

I'd take Curry over Blair. We know he is capable of scoring if he's in shape and motivated, he's proven that by averaging 19/game in the past . Blair hasn't proven shit , and continues to disappoint. Also Blair losing weight only further undersizes him....

Fortunately for us, you're not the one making the decision. Curry is roadkill.

[TDMVPDPOY]

get rid of blair or bonner, have curry....

we can go back to having a big frontline either starting or 2 bigs of the bench...

[Bruno]

In addition of Spurs only having the injury prone Splitter and the old Duncan at C, something else that might help Curry to make the roster is Diaw and Blair having lost some weight. While the loss of weight makes them better players overall, it gives them less heat to bang with bigger/stronger player. Giving some minutes at the C spot to Blair and Diaw is even a worst idea than when they were fat(ter).

It's going to be interesting to see how Spurs will handle their 15th roster spot. It seems that Powell has been the best of the invites but Curry is the one that makes the most sense positional wise. The situation should/could be more clear with more preseason games play but the choice seems tough to make at this stage of the training camp.

[Juggity]

Oh, that,s right, the conspiracy theorists are in full bloom this fall. It's all Stern's fault.

Game six was altered by referee calls, without question.

The rest of the series was officiated fairly.

[therealtruth]

Personally, I saw it coming a mile away. Bonner is a given, to shit the bed, but I just had a feeling someone else would too; I figured it would be Green -- and it was. :depressed

Give credit to the Thunder. They forced him to rush his shots just like with Bonner.

[Ice009]

In addition of Spurs only having the injury prone Splitter and the old Duncan at C, something else that might help Curry to make the roster is Diaw and Blair having lost some weight. While the loss of weight makes them better players overall, it gives them less heat to bang with bigger/stronger player. Giving some minutes at the C spot to Blair and Diaw is even a worst idea than when they were fat(ter).

It's going to be interesting to see how Spurs will handle their 15th roster spot. It seems that Powell has been the best of the invites but Curry is the one that makes the most sense positional wise. The situation should/could be more clear with more preseason games play but the choice seems tough to make at this stage of the training camp.

At this very early stage it looks like Powell is pretty much the front runner. If Curry keeps getting better and better, do you think the Spurs would be willing to trade someone to open up a roster spot for him? Or is there no way they would do that this early in the season?

[Bruno]

At this very early stage it looks like Powell is pretty much the front runner. If Curry keeps getting better and better, do you think the Spurs would be willing to trade someone to open up a roster spot for him? Or is there no way they would do that this early in the season?

If most of the guards have a good training camp, trading one of them would be a good idea. Having such a big logjam is asking for troubles.

[Ice009]

If most of the guards have a good training camp, trading one of them would be a good idea. Having such a big logjam is asking for troubles.

I kind of like all the guards on the team, and I'd like them all to stay around and compete against each other to see who comes out on top before getting rid of anyone.

If Curry works his butt off to earn a roster spot I would rather Bonner be the player that gets traded, but that is not likely to happen. I am curious though, does anyone know if Bonner was carrying an injury during the playoffs last season that may have affected his shooting?

[spurs10]

In addition of Spurs only having the injury prone Splitter and the old Duncan at C, something else that might help Curry to make the roster is Diaw and Blair having lost some weight. While the loss of weight makes them better players overall, it gives them less heat to bang with bigger/stronger player. Giving some minutes at the C spot to Blair and Diaw is even a worst idea than when they were fat(ter).

It's going to be interesting to see how Spurs will handle their 15th roster spot. It seems that Powell has been the best of the invites but Curry is the one that makes the most sense positional wise. The situation should/could be more clear with more preseason games play but the choice seems tough to make at this stage of the training camp.
Do you think Curry makes the most sense because of Blair and Bonner being on the roster. It's true we have only two centers on the roster, but I'm wondering if a PF that can play defense and back Diaw up is just as important. Blair can't spread the floor or play d and Bonner can only spread the floor. I keep wonder if we move someone so we can keep Curry and either Powell or Brown. If our 4 position is only Diaw, Bonner, and Blair then, as timvp has said, Blair starts or Bonner plays with Tiago off the bench when Diaw starts. I'm for starting Diaw because his defense, passing, and perimeter shooting is the best at that position.

[rmt]

I kind of like all the guards on the team, and I'd like them all to stay around and compete against each other to see who comes out on top before getting rid of anyone.

If Curry works his butt off to earn a roster spot I would rather Bonner be the player that gets traded, but that is not likely to happen. I am curious though, does anyone know if Bonner was carrying an injury during the playoffs last season that may have affected his shooting?

Only the type that he gets EVERY April - come playoff time.

[ace3g]

Sam Amico (http://sulia.com/source/S-7325151)
+ Follow Even in the event Eddy Curry doesn't make the Spurs, word is he's played well enough to have drawn interest from...
several teams, which are supposedly keeping tabs on him. Then again, Curry no longer seems like such a long shot to make the Spurs' final roster. The Bucks, Trail Blazers, Hornets and yes, Bulls, all may have an interest if Curry is cut loose.

[timvp]

I wonder if the Spurs gave Curry any guaranteed money. I'm guessing they gave him something.

But I haven't seen any figures for Curry, Powell or Brown ... the three players most likely to have gotten some sort of small guarantee to join the Spurs training camp. Has anyone else seen anything?

[Spursfan092120]

Heard it was non-guaranteed...could be wrong, though.

[Spursfan092120]

http://www.hoopsrumors.com/2012/03/201213-nba-non-guaranteed-contracts.html

[timvp]

Good find, Spursfan092120

If true, I'm surprised the Spurs were able to get such a stacked training camp roster without having to shell out any extra guaranteed money.

[spurs10]

Good find, Spursfan092120 (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=15391)

If true, I'm surprised the Spurs were able to get such a stacked training camp roster without having to shell out any extra guaranteed money.

I hope if any of these players we might want have no binding ties with us, we aren't grooming them for the enemy.

[Ice009]

Spurs really need to think hard about Curry if he has a good training camp because some other team will definitely pick him up if the Spurs cut him. They won't be able to get him again later if they cut him. Not sure if the same would apply to Powell or Brown? Bigs are in demand, and if he has a good showing and the Spurs still pass on him, then they better be sure they don't think he will help the team in the long run against the Lakers, and/or other teams with size.

As long as Curry keeps improving throughout training camp and the rest of these preseason games, I think he is moving to the top of my list with Powell dropping to second and Brown 3rd. Brown can move up though if he starts showing a lot more, but right now it doesn't seem like he has shown enough to even put himself in the running to make the team, neither has Curry really, but he seems to be showing flashes and has the potential to get there by the end of the camp if he can get himself in good enough shape conditioning wise.

Like someone else also mentioned, I kinda like the idea of having a guy that will finish strong and dunk the ball if TP passes it to him in good position down low. TP can get a lot of the current players the ball up close, but none of them can really finish with authority, so it would be really good to have someone that can dunk it down once in a while and finish strong around the basket. Even if he isn't a good defender, easy offense like that can be very valuable.

[Raven]

I'd take Curry over Blair. We know he is capable of scoring if he's in shape and motivated, he's proven that by averaging 19/game in the past . Blair hasn't proven shit , and continues to disappoint. Also Blair losing weight only further undersizes him....

As you point out, there really is not any future with Blair at C so perhaps the weight loss can do good for his defense at the PF where he wouldn't be as undersized.. A Millsap style Blair would be huge, of course it's a reach to say Millsap, but anyway..

[TDMVPDPOY]

even with the wight loss, blair hasnt been the same since his rookie year, giving us 20/20 on some nights.....his been studied and exploited by other players/teams due to his one dimensional game PNR circus shots, if dude wants to be serious about stayin on this team...he needs to add a 10-15ft jumpshot like malik rose did

[Bruno]

Do you think Curry makes the most sense because of Blair and Bonner being on the roster. It's true we have only two centers on the roster, but I'm wondering if a PF that can play defense and back Diaw up is just as important. Blair can't spread the floor or play d and Bonner can only spread the floor.

Powell, that has been the best PF so far among invites, is 29 years old with 6 years in the NBA without having had some kind of impact. It's unlikely that he turns up as a better option than Blair and Bonner to share minutes at PF with Diaw. He would be a 4th string PF for Spurs and would be quite useless. So, even if Powell turns out as the best player among invites, he might be not the right player to keep because he won't really help Spurs.

[Bruno]

And I'm not surprised that other teams are keeping an eye on Curry. Good seven footer aren't easy to find and Curry could be a damn good one. If he plays well in preseason games, Spurs won't let him go away. They need a center, have a roster spot and the cap space below the tax to keep him. I don't see why they wouldn't want to keep him if he is good enough.

[CGD]

Curry is the way to go with the last slot. Low-risk high-reward etc. However, the Splitter situation concerns me a bit between his injuries, and the prospect of having to pay him next summer. If Curry is kept and produces, I see good security. If that happens, I also wouldn't be shocked if Splitter is traded before February.

I'm hoping to see more out of Brown, but he hasn't seemed to impress yet. It would take a lot for Pop to consider trading/waiving either Neal or Blair to keep him around.

[xellos88330]

^ agreed.

I am going to have to pay attention to the next preseason game to see how he does defending pick and roll sets. I was mainly paying attention to his offense in the first game.

[mountainballer]

you guys realize that Curry played 24 games over the last 4 seasons?
a player like him will never be "low risk"
you will never know, if he will be healthy and/or ready to play.
such players can always only be a plus to a stacked roster.
if you take him to close a hole on your roster, the risk that you need to close this hole again during the season is damn high.

[CGD]

you guys realize that Curry played 24 games over the last 4 seasons?
a player like him will never be "low risk"
you will never know, if he will be healthy and/or ready to play.
such players can always only be a plus to a stacked roster.
if you take him to close a hole on your roster, the risk that you need to close this hole again during the season is damn high.

Some would argue that is what we have now. It's not like the Spurs have a terrible front line, nor are they looking for Curry to be a go to guy at this point of the season (if at all). If he does develops into that later in the season it means he's doing something right if not well. I just don't see the "damn high" risk you see.

[spurs10]

Powell, that has been the best PF so far among invites, is 29 years old with 6 years in the NBA without having had some kind of impact. It's unlikely that he turns up as a better option than Blair and Bonner to share minutes at PF with Diaw. He would be a 4th string PF for Spurs and would be quite useless. So, even if Powell turns out as the best player among invites, he might be not the right player to keep because he won't really help Spurs.
Thanks, if Powell can't unseat Blair or Bonner at the 4, then we would be of little use. Curry would be our 3rd C and probably see some pt.

[SenorSpur]

Spurs really need to think hard about Curry if he has a good training camp because some other team will definitely pick him up if the Spurs cut him. They won't be able to get him again later if they cut him. Not sure if the same would apply to Powell or Brown? Bigs are in demand, and if he has a good showing and the Spurs still pass on him, then they better be sure they don't think he will help the team in the long run against the Lakers, and/or other teams with size.

As long as Curry keeps improving throughout training camp and the rest of these preseason games, I think he is moving to the top of my list with Powell dropping to second and Brown 3rd. Brown can move up though if he starts showing a lot more, but right now it doesn't seem like he has shown enough to even put himself in the running to make the team, neither has Curry really, but he seems to be showing flashes and has the potential to get there by the end of the camp if he can get himself in good enough shape conditioning wise.

Like someone else also mentioned, I kinda like the idea of having a guy that will finish strong and dunk the ball if TP passes it to him in good position down low. TP can get a lot of the current players the ball up close, but none of them can really finish with authority, so it would be really good to have someone that can dunk it down once in a while and finish strong around the basket. Even if he isn't a good defender, easy offense like that can be very valuable.

Amen to all of this! :tu

Curry may not have his wind yet, but he's got some tools and some ability. If the guy can apply himself, keep himself in shape and embrace good coaching, he could potentially be a good asset to this team. It's not like the Spurs are overflowing with low-post options. I like the fact that he gives the Spurs a more physical center, who can bang with the likes of every other big in the conference. He could probably pair up well with practially every other big on the team, except Blair and Splitter. Without him, the Spurs seemingly will STILL have the most undersized frontline of practically every contender in the West.

I wish there were a way for the Spurs to keep both Curry and Powell and swap out both Blair and Bonner.

[bklynspursfan]

Amen to all of this! :tu

Curry may not have his wind yet, but he's got some tools and some ability. If the guy can apply himself, keep himself in shape and embrace good coaching, he could potentially be a good asset to this team. It's not like the Spurs are overflowing with low-post options. I like the fact that he gives the Spurs a more physical center, who can bang with the likes of every other big in the conference. He could probably pair up well with practially every other big on the team, except Blair and Splitter. Without him, the Spurs seemingly will STILL have the most undersized frontline of practically every contender in the West.

I wish there were a way for the Spurs to keep both Curry and Powell and swap out both Blair and Bonner.


That's what I'm hoping for as well. Kind of think it'd be Blair if that did happen.

[spursince#99]

I honestly believe we should keep 2 out of the Curry, Brown, and Powell trio. I was the first to say Curry would make the team and with rumored interest being shown there's no way he doesn't make the team. However, I believe it's a toss up between the other 2. I was thinking Powell could be the choice with what he's provided so far and could possibly unseat Blair for a future trade. That would only work if Powell could produce as Blair usually does, but that's where you have to make a decision because trading Blair could lead to an even better big man assuming we include a package including him and a guard or 2. Maybe even a first or second rounder. I salute the front office for this training camp roster because a very underrated part is the fact that we gain unexpected flexibility with the production we'll receive from expiring contracts opposed to saying we do keep 2 training camp invites which we should. Just a little insight.

[Gagnrath]

Guys Bonner is a spur for life unless/until the spurs get a ludicrous trade offer for him, and by ludicrous we are talking a rotation player and at least a high second round draft pick. Pop loves the guy, he's decent during the regular season and would be a rotation player for most of the teams in the league. His defense is no longer atrociousness, he rarely makes mistakes (stupid fouls and turnovers), Bonner's even really good in the locker-room supposedly and he is really capable of 12 points in 15 minutes of time or more. He's also fairly cheap for that. The only real problem with him is that he disappears come play-off time. That's a problem for about 6 teams in the league the rest of the league really doesn't care, as they have no real championship aspirations in any given year.

So unless you can get some other team's gm to offer more than what he is actually worth, (possible because there are some silly GMs in the NBA historically) He's with the spurs.

[gambit1990]

i'm for keeping curry. duncan's bound to sit out games, and splitter's bound to miss games due to injury. we could use a 7-footer.

[spurraider21]

Curry will likely make the roster, but not the top 13, meaning he will be an inactive most nights. Don't mind him as insurance

[spurspokesman]

Amen to all of this! :tu

Curry may not have his wind yet, but he's got some tools and some ability. If the guy can apply himself, keep himself in shape and embrace good coaching, he could potentially be a good asset to this team. It's not like the Spurs are overflowing with low-post options. I like the fact that he gives the Spurs a more physical center, who can bang with the likes of every other big in the conference. He could probably pair up well with practially every other big on the team, except Blair and Splitter. Without him, the Spurs seemingly will STILL have the most undersized frontline of practically every contender in the West.

I wish there were a way for the Spurs to keep both Curry and Powell and swap out both Blair and Bonner.

Yes bye bye turd towers

[Spursfan092120]

Yeah...I am too. Hopefully we can get something out of em.

[Stump]

Curry will likely make the roster, but not the top 13, meaning he will be an inactive most nights. Don't mind him as insurance
If Curry makes the team, I'm not looking for him to make an impact in the playoffs. I'm looking for him to allow Duncan to take more games off in the regular season and provide help when Tiago inevitably gets hurt a has to sit a couple weeks.

[Axegrinder]

How many heads will explode here when FO keeps NONE and carries 14 into the season?

[Maddog]

How many heads will explode here when FO keeps NONE and carries 14 into the season?

I think this is a distinct possibility
Let me ask this for those who know the CBA backwards and forwards-
If the Spurs where to Keep Curry- When would he be eligible to be traded?
A lot of teams allegedly are interested in him. I know by himself he has little value, but might be worth keeping
besides on court possibilities but also as part of a potential trade deadline package.

[ChuckD]

How many heads will explode here when FO keeps NONE and carries 14 into the season?

My prediction is 15 w/Brown, but I'll admit the strong possibility of 14. :lol

My dream is 14 w/ Brown and Powell and w/o Neal and Blair.

[therealtruth]

Guys Bonner is a spur for life unless/until the spurs get a ludicrous trade offer for him, and by ludicrous we are talking a rotation player and at least a high second round draft pick. Pop loves the guy, he's decent during the regular season and would be a rotation player for most of the teams in the league. His defense is no longer atrociousness, he rarely makes mistakes (stupid fouls and turnovers), Bonner's even really good in the locker-room supposedly and he is really capable of 12 points in 15 minutes of time or more. He's also fairly cheap for that. The only real problem with him is that he disappears come play-off time. That's a problem for about 6 teams in the league the rest of the league really doesn't care, as they have no real championship aspirations in any given year.

So unless you can get some other team's gm to offer more than what he is actually worth, (possible because there are some silly GMs in the NBA historically) He's with the spurs.

Sorry Bonner is not a rotation player on any other team than the Spurs.

[rmt]

If Curry makes the team, I'm not looking for him to make an impact in the playoffs. I'm looking for him to allow Duncan to take more games off in the regular season and provide help when Tiago inevitably gets hurt a has to sit a couple weeks.

Well, Duncan taking off more games in the RG hopefully will have an impact in the playoffs. I hope they keep Curry. They've got a ton of guards and no true 7 footer on the roster. TD is too old and Tiago too fragile/can't play long minutes (only 20 mins/game) to go up against LAL and MEM.

[racm]

Sorry Bonner is not a rotation player on any other team than the Spurs.

I'd replace him with Bargnani...

[SenorSpur]

Sorry Bonner is not a rotation player on any other team than the Spurs.

And therein lies the huge "pink elephant in the room" that Pop and every other member in the Spurs organization pretends to ignore. They see this guy every day during the regular season. Like all of us, they've become all to familiar with his numerous liabilities as well as his "high choke factor" in the playoffs, which works to the advantage of every playoff opponent the Spurs face. Yet every year, a new season dawns and the coaching staff and front office pretend as though Bonner is again an intregal part of rotation and a a key playoff piece.

[dylankerouac]

And therein lies the huge "pink elephant in the room" that Pop and every other member in the Spurs organization pretends to ignore. They see this guy every day during the regular season. Like all of us, they've become all to familiar with his numerous liabilities as well as his "high choke factor" in the playoffs, which works to the advantage of every playoff opponent the Spurs face. Yet every year, a new season dawns and the coaching staff and front office pretend as though Bonner is again an intregal part of rotation and a a key playoff piece.

Maybe Pop would prefer to have the playoff standing Bonner can help provide rather than the additional wear and tear not having Bonner would bring. It may be the lesser of two evils in their minds.

[timtonymanu]

And therein lies the huge "pink elephant in the room" that Pop and every other member in the Spurs organization pretends to ignore. They see this guy every day during the regular season. Like all of us, they've become all to familiar with his numerous liabilities as well as his "high choke factor" in the playoffs, which works to the advantage of every playoff opponent the Spurs face. Yet every year, a new season dawns and the coaching staff and front office pretend as though Bonner is again an intregal part of rotation and a a key playoff piece.

Can't really blame them when Bonner keeps playing so well in the regular season to warrant a spot in the playoffs. Also doesn't help that Splitter gets hurt every other game and Blair is no better option. Unless Bonner plays horrible enough to take him out of the rotation or he suffers an injury that will set him far back (I prefer the former), he's always going to get playing time. I don't agree with it, but it's unfortunately the case.

[Gagnrath]

Sorry Bonner is not a rotation player on any other team than the Spurs.

Just for grins, who on the pistons is going to keep Bonner from seeing 10 minutes or so per game as a back-up big?
how about for the cavs?
I'd argue for that on the Suns as well
Decent chance of getting minutes as a center on the Heat.
Simple fact is he really does stand a pretty good shot at significant minutes during the regular season from most of the league.

He's not a starter, but he is definately good enough to be a rotation player (as a specialist) in the NBA. The real problem is that what he is good at simply disappears during the play-offs.

[therealtruth]

It's a credit to Pop that he is able to get alot out of players like Bonner. But in general other teams tend to put more value in individual talent and playing their best players the most minutes. It makes the most sense. As a coach with the risk of losing job, why would you do anything else? No one has ever been fired for playing their best players but the opposite has happened.

[objective]

forgive me if this has already been covered, but if they keep Curry they can send him to the d-league with his and the union's agreement to work on his conditioning in real games once the Toros start up, right?

[SenorSpur]

Can't really blame them when Bonner keeps playing so well in the regular season to warrant a spot in the playoffs. Also doesn't help that Splitter gets hurt every other game and Blair is no better option. Unless Bonner plays horrible enough to take him out of the rotation or he suffers an injury that will set him far back (I prefer the former), he's always going to get playing time. I don't agree with it, but it's unfortunately the case.

I promise I'm not going to derail this thread anymore and turn it into an anti-Bonner rant, so I'll leave it with this. The mere fact that Bonner is on the team at all is the problem. Same with Blair. You've got 2 roster spots invested in undersized, underskilled bigs, with limitations which cause the head coach to have to sit them both in the playoffs. As Duncan is no longer able to carry this team anymore, the Spurs at least owed it to him to upgrade the frontcourt talent around him. Bonner and Blair have had more than enough time and chances to prove they cannot be counted on over the long grind. The roster really needed to have been infused with two new bigs to take their place. It's time to move on, but for whatever reason, Pop cannot seem to do so, which is why I know it will never happen.

[timtonymanu]

I promise I'm not going to derail this thread anymore and turn it into an anti-Bonner rant, so I'll leave it with this. The mere fact that Bonner is on the team at all is the problem. Same with Blair. You've got 2 roster spots invested in undersized, underskilled bigs, with limitations which cause the head coach to have to sit them both in the playoffs. As Duncan is no longer able to carry this team anymore, the Spurs at least owed it to him to upgrade the frontcourt talent around him. Bonner and Blair have had more than enough time and chances to prove they cannot be counted on over the long grind. The roster really needed to have been infused with two new bigs to take their place. It's time to move on, but for whatever reason, Pop cannot seem to do so, which is why I know it will never happen.

Oh I agree. We all definitely know Bonner being on the team is pretty much useless, but somehow every season he fools Pop into thinking he can contribute in the playoffs by having an outstanding regular season. That's what I meant by my quote. I blame Bonner for not showing up when it counts, but getting pumped up for a meaningless 82-game season. Blair isn't given the same special treatment by Pop so I don't mind Blair as much.

[SenorSpur]

Back to the primary topic, I just read that both Curry and Powell had a decent contributions versus the Hawks, as the Big Three didn't play.

[Ice009]

Back to the primary topic, I just read that both Curry and Powell had a decent contributions versus the Hawks, as the Big Three didn't play.

Curry played physical and tough out there. To me, it looked like he really, really wants it. Powell was very good too. I'd really like to get both of them on the team and Bonner sent away. Having said that, I gotta try not to jump the gun. It's only the first preseason game against an NBA team, but both those guys looked good and I think they can help the Spurs out. Brown also had some good moments.

[SenorSpur]

Curry played physical and tough out there. To me, it looked like he really, really wants it. Powell was very good too. I'd really like to get both of them on the team and Bonner sent away. Having said that, I gotta try not to jump the gun. It's only the first preseason game against an NBA team, but both those guys looked good and I think they can help the Spurs out. Brown also had some good moments.

Yeah if Curry really seems as though he's re-dedicated himself to his profession and is playing with a lot of heart and desire, that's exactly the type of scenario that the Spurs proclaim they favor - a player with something to prove. If Curry continues to keep this up, I'd much rather the Spurs be the beneficiary of his renewed desire, than to have some other team reap this reward. It'd be nice if the Spurs were serious about revamping their frontline and finally did the right thing by shipping Bonner and Blair out, and keeping Powell and Curry. That seems like an instant upgrade and would give them more upfront firepower needed to compete with the top contenders. I know it will not happen, but I'll keep the dream alive.

[ace3g]

http://www.nba.com/spurs/sites/spurs/files/imagecache/local_image_gallery_default/121010_33.jpg

http://www.nba.com/spurs/sites/spurs/files/imagecache/local_image_gallery_default/121010_97.jpg

[TDMVPDPOY]

curry needs to set real hard fkn screens, not pull a splitter where the screen isnt even set properly moving away hopin for a pass or the baller hasnt gotten pass the set screen...

he has a strong case to make the roster

just hope pulls a trade to open spots on the roster...

[Das Texan]

If Curry is going to produce somewhat and be in decent shape, he is going to get that last spot on the team.

The Spurs wont be that dumb/cheap to pass up on a fairly decent 7 foot option they might need at some point this season.

[TDMVPDPOY]

a 7ft motivated curry on a the cheap is better than undersize blair, let alone any big out there on the market who wants a big contract with teh recent overpaying for big scrubs

[slick'81]

glad to hear currys lost some weight and seems motivated

[99 Problems]

He'll get better yet.

[baseline bum]

I promise I'm not going to derail this thread anymore and turn it into an anti-Bonner rant, so I'll leave it with this. The mere fact that Bonner is on the team at all is the problem. Same with Blair. You've got 2 roster spots invested in undersized, underskilled bigs, with limitations which cause the head coach to have to sit them both in the playoffs. As Duncan is no longer able to carry this team anymore, the Spurs at least owed it to him to upgrade the frontcourt talent around him. Bonner and Blair have had more than enough time and chances to prove they cannot be counted on over the long grind. The roster really needed to have been infused with two new bigs to take their place. It's time to move on, but for whatever reason, Pop cannot seem to do so, which is why I know it will never happen.

While I'm with you on hating Bonner and being pretty meh on Blair, I think the Spurs did well to re-sign Diaw. There's no money to do anything else unless you want to unload Jackson's expiring and Leonard together for a quality big in a move that mortgages the future for the present (which could be justified depending on how good a big they'd land with that package).

[therealtruth]

While I'm with you on hating Bonner and being pretty meh on Blair, I think the Spurs did well to re-sign Diaw. There's no money to do anything else unless you want to unload Jackson's expiring and Leonard together for a quality big in a move that mortgages the future for the present (which could be justified depending on how good a big they'd land with that package).

That's the excuse they use but they're not even looking.

[Raven]

He looked pretty fat tbh.. I'm rooting for him, however.

[ace3g]

http://media.kens5.com/images/2012-10-10+Spurs_Hawks+%2816%29.JPG

[ChuckD]

tweet of the year:


I love pre-season optimism about about Eddy Curry. It's like the beginning of a horror movie when everyone is saying "what a great cabin!"

:lol:rollin:lol:rollin:lol:rollin:lol:rollin

[Dex]

Ok that's pretty good.

[spurspokesman]

The regular season argument for matt is only valid if winning a fifth is not a priority because he is useless from the very minute playoff commercials roll out. For his size he sucks at rebounding and really has no intestinal fortitude. I know its hard to find a big these days but id settle for a slightly undersized energy guy than a guy with size and no heart like bonner.

[dylankerouac]

He's got that nasty look in his eye. Can't wait to see this team fight for that ring!

[bigfan]

It has been a long time since we've had a legitimate "bruiser" type on the Spurs. If Blair was tall it could be him but he isnt. I think we should keep Curry.

[spursince#99]

He just looks like he's seconds away from being out of shape

[dylankerouac]

He just looks like he's seconds away from being out of shape

LoL, gotta have some optimism. You're right though, we will see how mentally strong he is in the coming days/weeks (this is probably the area he needs to impress Pop in the most).

Regarding Curry, I hope he didn't work this hard to just wash it away. He's wasting his own and other peoples' time if so.

[spursince#99]

LoL, gotta have some optimism. You're right though, we will see how mentally strong he is in the coming days/weeks (this is probably the area he needs to impress Pop in the most).

Regarding Curry, I hope he didn't work this hard to just wash it away. He's wasting his own and other peoples' time if so.


Yeah I totally agree. I would think he's motivated and didn't lose all of the weight for nothing, but it may be something that's out of his control.

[superbigtime]

http://media.kens5.com/images/2012-10-10+Spurs_Hawks+%2816%29.JPG

Dang that's a big dude. Scowling, tatted up, got the fro, and don't give a f!!k. Man I hope he can find a place with this team, and thereby nudge Bonner into the abyss. Unless he's a total lost cause (a definite possibility), one would think that the vets and coaches can get him to walk the line. BTW, his wrist looks kind of gnarled up there.

[superbigtime]

Bonner... he is guaranteed to stick around when his playing days are over, ala Danny Ferry, Sean Marks, JV. Pop just LOVES him.

[TDMVPDPOY]

he hasnt got alot of minutes, is pop playin it safe he knows what he get from curry, or more due to his health?

[TDMVPDPOY]

eddy curry was beasting tonight turning back the clock

pros
-actual low post player with front up and back to the rim game
-team defense still collapse on him when he receives it down low

cons
-slowbro
-looks lost on the court, but once he learns the system he be fine
-defense, not expecting much besides good positioning and active hands attempting to play any form of defense altering shots

we have ourselves a former legit franchise player who use to posts +20ppg, what he must understand now is his not a franchise player where plays wont be made for him..so he must focused on setting plays like hard screens and other stuff that doesnt appear on the stat sheet, was hoping the wankers on the court would actually lob it down low to him when he had good positioning, he open up the court once the team defense collapse on him.....he is a major fkn upgrade over blair, bonner, splitter

[bklynspursfan]

Curry confident he'll make the team.


“I feel I’m in a good situation,” Curry said. “I worked hard this summer. Every game it’s just about showing everybody what I can do. I’m trying to focus on defense and rebounding, trying to play in the system and soak up as much as I can.
“I think I’m going to make it. Until they tell me I’m not, I feel like I’m part of this team.”


http://airalamo.com/2012/10/13/eddy-curry-confident-in-his-chances-to-make-the-team/

[Sean Cagney]

The regular season argument for matt is only valid if winning a fifth is not a priority because he is useless from the very minute playoff commercials roll out. For his size he sucks at rebounding and really has no intestinal fortitude. I know its hard to find a big these days but id settle for a slightly undersized energy guy than a guy with size and no heart like bonner.

Yep, and he actually starts to suck the month before the playoffs, look it up he starts his downward spiral as soon as he sees the month ahead lol. He just seems to start to get scard when it starts to matter and his % goes down.

[Strategic]

I don't see how he could affect bonner's minutes too much. Isn't he some one that would cut into Blair's PT, not saying that's a bad thing.

[007nites]

Plenty of big stiffs in the league proves that doesn't really matter. If we just needed size, we could have signed Ajinca. He's even bigger than Curry at 7'2" and has a HUGE wingspan.

Curry has a 7'6.5" according to draftexpress. That's longer than Thabeet, McGee, DeAndre Jordan, Brook Lopez, etc.

[timvp]

A bad sign for Curry's chances of making the team is that Pop hasn't given Curry any time in the regular rotation yet. He's just been playing him with scrubs so far.

Tbh, I'd love to see a lineup with Duncan and Curry just to see what it could do.

[Vic Petro]

A bad sign for Curry's chances of making the team is that Pop hasn't given Curry any time in the regular rotation yet. He's just been playing him with scrubs so far.

Tbh, I'd love to see a lineup with Duncan and Curry just to see what it could do.

I can only imagine what all the tiago groupies would say if Pop tried Curry next to TD :cry

[spurs10]

A bad sign for Curry's chances of making the team is that Pop hasn't given Curry any time in the regular rotation yet. He's just been playing him with scrubs so far.

Tbh, I'd love to see a lineup with Duncan and Curry just to see what it could do.
That would be nice. At least on offense Tim could play more like the PF of old. It could be just me, but I didn't see Tiago getting double teamed every time he touched the ball. In a year where watching Tim's minutes will be crucial, I don't see why we would pass on Curry's inside presence.

[therealtruth]

That would be nice. At least on offense Tim could play more like the PF of old. It could be just me, but I didn't see Tiago getting double teamed every time he touched the ball. In a year where watching Tim's minutes will be crucial, I don't see why we would pass on Curry's inside presence.

Tiago was starting to draw the double team in the paint preinjury. It could be a huge weapon for us if we can have someone who can draw the double team down low. That would leave our shooters wide open. It would also be easier for our shooters to hit shots created from the paint than off dribble penetration. It takes much longer for defenders to recover from near the basket area.

[SenorSpur]

I hope he makes the team. He is a 7' footer with skills and raw talent. Too bad his working ethic is almost non-existent, but he is in the right environment. Popovich and Duncan (and Jackson) could straight him up fo sure

I hear ya. I had many doubts about Curry at the start - and still do in some respects. However. I like what I'm reading about him - especially the supposed renewed commitment and dedication to his craft. He's seems to be saying the right things - and let's face facts - you cannot teach size and height. If Curry really wants to jump start his career, SA is the place to do it. Actually, the Spurs need him as much as he needs them. I sincerely hope he makes it.

[dbestpro]

I can only imagine what all the tiago groupies would say if Pop tried Curry next to TD :cry

There is no such thing as a Tiago groupie. There are only those Spur fans who want the guy next to TD to be 6-10 or better.

The reason goes back to how we use to excel on defense. When we had two bigs on the floor we could crowd the shooters because they would be challenged in the paint. With Blair and Bonner we cannot allow the opponent to drive to the basket so we have to play a very timid perimeter defense. Those fans who want more defense know we need interior size to make Pop's better defensive plays work.

[DPG21920]

I still really don't understand why the Spurs didn't go harder after Blatche. I mean, if they can take on a guy like Curry with his issues, why not Blatche? Unless there is something physically wrong with him, I really don't get limiting yourself to guys like Curry (who at least has looked somewhat decent in moments).

[racm]

Bonner got a DNP-CD and wasn't with half the team recently. :downspin:

[racm]

I still really don't understand why the Spurs didn't go harder after Blatche. I mean, if they can take on a guy like Curry with his issues, why not Blatche? Unless there is something physically wrong with him, I really don't get limiting yourself to guys like Curry (who at least has looked somewhat decent in moments).

Blatche makes Curry look like a totally upstanding citizen, thank you very much.

[SenorSpur]

A bad sign for Curry's chances of making the team is that Pop hasn't given Curry any time in the regular rotation yet. He's just been playing him with scrubs so far.

Tbh, I'd love to see a lineup with Duncan and Curry just to see what it could do.

I was thinking the same thing a few days ago. Having Curry to bang down low would allow Duncan to do his usual work from the elbow/FT line on offense and opposing offenses would find it more difficult to drive the paint with 2 7-footers under the basket. Sounds like a familiar recipe.

[bigfan]

Frankly, if Curry could just be another Rasho Id be very happy.

[therealtruth]

There is no such thing as a Tiago groupie. There are only those Spur fans who want the guy next to TD to be 6-10 or better.

The reason goes back to how we use to excel on defense. When we had two bigs on the floor we could crowd the shooters because they would be challenged in the paint. With Blair and Bonner we cannot allow the opponent to drive to the basket so we have to play a very timid perimeter defense. Those fans who want more defense know we need interior size to make Pop's better defensive plays work.

Exactly. That and the fact that Duncan struggles to draw double teams in the post. With two 6-10 or taller guys there's a greater chance of drawing double teams in the post and getting more easy baskets.

[ChuckD]

Height <> good defense

Curry pretty much sucks as a defender. He certainly cannot be paired with Tim, as neither moves well enough laterally to cover today's PFs.

[ChumpDumper]

I still really don't understand why the Spurs didn't go harder after Blatche. I mean, if they can take on a guy like Curry with his issues, why not Blatche? Unless there is something physically wrong with him, I really don't get limiting yourself to guys like Curry (who at least has looked somewhat decent in moments).Let it go.

[Juggity]

I still really don't understand why the Spurs didn't go harder after Blatche. I mean, if they can take on a guy like Curry with his issues, why not Blatche? Unless there is something physically wrong with him, I really don't get limiting yourself to guys like Curry (who at least has looked somewhat decent in moments).

Probably because the Nets are capable of paying more money, and offering more brand exposure, which is what matters to players like Blatche.

[td4mvp2k]

Eddy Curry and Dejaun Blair have been hitting the buffet lines together I'm told.

[Two10Whitey]

Is there video of Eddy Curry's fake and dunk on the Nuggets?

[Johnny RIngo]

Blatche makes Curry look like a totally upstanding citizen, thank you very much.

SJax has been a head-case on just about every other NBA team he's been on yet he always falls in line playing in SA. With the the respected vets/coaching staff on the team, I find it hard to believe that a guy like Blatche would act the same way here.

[TimDunkem]

It doesn't matter anymore. Blatche is a Net, and that's that.

[xmas1997]

Spurs need the height and muscle of Curry.

[LittleCriminal]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx6GRGeX0nM

[SenorSpur]

Spurs need the height and muscle of Curry.

If for no other reason than for his impressive scoring prowess in the paint - against damn near anyone. In time, and with good coaching, he could probably develop into an average defender, but his ability to score around the basket is unparalleled - at least for this incarnation of Spurs team. And we all know how much Pop loves offense.

[Yuixafun]

All I'm saying is, when a man lazy enough to balloon to 400 lbs while making millions to do essentially anything but just that, and then loses quarter of his body weight while hoping some (any) team accepts this as an apology... well, clearly the guy has something to prove.




This gives hope and a direction to anyone with god givens talents and has made a mess. It strikes a chord in me, the way you put it.

More often then not as gifted individuals you sit on your laurels because you feel you already got it in the bag.

You need more then words to make an apology.

And if you haven't done anything, then yes you should live like you have something to prove.

You'll finde peace and happiness that way, instead of heartache and grief. I think.

[Danny.Zhu]

Eddy Curry signs to play in China for rest of season ...

:lol Spurs fans thinking he could make the team

[The_Worlds_finest]

Eddy Curry signs to play in China for rest of season ...

:lol Spurs fans thinking he could make the team

Zero chance of making the team doesn't include an invite to summer camp.

[spurraider21]

Zero chance of making the team doesn't include an invite to summer camp.
I've always been a Blair defender, but really, is there anything Blair is doing that Curry couldn't?

[Gagnrath]

Running without a good bit of his knees.

[Juggity]

I've always been a Blair defender, but really, is there anything Blair is doing that Curry couldn't?

I agree. Curry has talent on the offensive end, and this year seemed finally motivated. Still surprised no teams showed interest after the Mavs waived him.

[Obstructed_View]

I've always been a Blair defender, but really, is there anything Blair is doing that Curry couldn't?

I saw Blair defend a pick and roll with success once.

[wildbill2u]

I've always been a Blair defender, but really, is there anything Blair is doing that Curry couldn't?

eat less?