Ginobili out for weeks, could miss start of the playoffs (Edit: out 3-4 weeks)

[Bruno]

http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2013/03/31/spurs-notebook-ginobili%E2%80%99s-time-on-sideline-figures-to-grow/


“It’s more than days,” Popovich said. “It’s more like weeks, unfortunately."


“It could (stretch into the playoffs),” Popovich said. “We don’t know how his leg is going to react. We’re doing everything we can.”


Edit:

318768956561313792

[BatManu20]

April fools! Right?

[siraulo23]

manu letting the team down... again... nothing new

[Bruno]

April fools! Right?

Nope :depressed

[BatManu20]

Nope :depressed

Damn.. We don't really need him in the first round if we play Utah or Dallas, we can beat hose teams without him. But, if we play the Lakers, it could come back to bite us.

[BatManu20]

manu letting the team down... again... nothing new

The guy's almost 36 years old.. what do you expect? Most guards can't even play in the league at that age.

[Bruno]

With Manu out for a long time, Pop needs to have a talk with De Colo asking him to take more responsibilities offensively.

I think the main reason why De Colo is doing so little offensively is because he just doesn't want to do mistakes that will put him in the doghouse. Pop needs to tell him that he has to do more play-making wise but also that he will lengthen his leash and not bench him at his first mistake. I'm not really sure that Nando can carry a bigger load, but he is Spurs best outside playmaker outside of Tony and Manu.

[hater]

bad news. manu is out probably for rest of season

good news. shit bag manu is out :tu

lets face it. this team was not going anywhere. At least now they can go on their summer vacations early.

[ElNono]

Manu will play in one leg for the playoffs if necessary... you can take that one to the bank...

I'm more concerned with Pop being overly cautious like he was in that game 1 vs Memphis a few seasons ago, than Manu suiting up and contributing...

[MultiTroll]

I'm not saying he did, but anyone think it looked like Clipper jammed Manu on purpose? Knowing full well his hammys are jacked up.

[phxspurfan]

Manu on one leg vs. Durant or James


:depressed

[024]

getting real tired of ginobili's shit. he better take a huge pay cut in the offseason and rework his game if he wants to stay with the spurs.

[loveforthegame]

Another playoff run with Manu injured. Shocking.

:td

[Spur|n|Austin]

Officially out 3-4 weeks, expected return during the 1st round of playoffs.


getting real tired of ginobili's shit. he better take a huge pay cut in the offseason and rework his game if he wants to stay with the spurs.

You say that like he meant to get hurt. I'll never understand people who blame players for injuries, like they want to miss games and be in pain, smh.

[emanueldavidginobili]

Manu is out 3 to 4 weeks.....smfh

[emanueldavidginobili]

He probably could come back earlier but this is the smartest thing to do sit him out for the rest of the season. Hamstrings linger and the only way to fully heal is give it time...this might be a blessing in disguise

[Spur|n|Austin]

He probably could come back earlier but this is the smartest thing to do sit him out for the rest of the playoffs. Hamstrings linger and omlubway to fully heal is give it time...this might be a blessing in disguise

He's actually not out the rest of the playoffs..

[024]

Officially out 3-4 weeks, expected return during the 1st round of playoffs.



You say that like he meant to get hurt. I'll never understand people who blame players for injuries, like they want to miss games and be in pain, smh.

never said i blamed him for his injuries. most people who do that do so because of ginobili's choice to play on the national team rather than resting. i don't think that way. i'm more mad that the spurs management have, year after year, kept ginobili as part of the core knowing full well his injury history. it's like the rockets holding on to yao ming and tmac when all the signs are telling them that probably won't work out. instead, the spurs keep burying their heads in the sand and crossing their fingers every year hoping ginobili will stay healthy. it's really a dumb plan. and now, even when ginobili is healthy, his play just seems completely off. for the spurs to make it back to the finals, ginobili needs to regain all star form. duncan and parker have been playing like all stars but even when ginobili was "healthy," he looked nowhere close.

[Thread]

You have to reverent & still now.

Like he was at prime when he was killing them reverently, yes, for himself & them, but, mostly for you.

[romsho]

bad news. manu is out probably for rest of season

good news. shit bag manu is out :tu

lets face it. this team was not going anywhere. At least now they can go on their summer vacations early.

Seriously...why do you bother? Shit bag Manu? Wow. As a fan, you are truly a piece of shit. Go away- you won't be missed. Thanks for nothing.

[dbreiden83080]

Not a shock. We really can't rely on him anymore. He is never healthy for long. Hopefully he can play limited min off the bench in the playoffs and give them a little punch. Kahwi just gets more chances to expand his game now..

[timvp]

Damn it. Even if Ginobili was struggling prior to his injury, he's still the third best player on this team. The Spurs can't win a championship without him. Hell, winning in the first round would be a whole lot tougher ... and I don't think the Spurs can win in the second round without him.

The earliest the second round starts is May 6th ... so there's some time. The first round starts April 20th or 21st.

But yeah, let us hope Ginobili can be back for the start of the playoffs. At worst, let us hope he'll be back for the first two road games of the playoffs.

Unfortunately, this news probably locks up the No. 1 spot for the never-get-injured Thunder.

:depressed

[ElNono]

We're already heading into the playoffs with Neal and Tony hurting... let's hope Manu can join them in the 1st round.

[dbreiden83080]

Damn it. Even if Ginobili was struggling prior to his injury, he's still the third best player on this team.


Come on... Really? Manu has been mediocre on D and ineffective on O far more than he has been productive this year. Kahwi has to be the 3rd best player by now if not for his D and energy alone... Manu rolls out of bed and he pulls a muscle... People still look at Manu and think of the potential but when is the last time he showed us that potential?

[Darius McCrary]

Even more evidence that last year was our perfect storm. Sucks.

[Dex]

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lyci2t8hC01qen75u.gif

[Mugen]

He'll be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs tbh.

[TE]

Can we catch a fucking break? Good god man.

[Raven]

that hurts...

[Thread]

Can we catch a fucking break? Good god man.

Remember, T, playing the injury card is a pussy & asshole protocol.

You have 15 slots and a world 6 hours away.

Get on with it.

[TheGoldStandard]

Well, it's no surprise that Manu is hurt, it's not his fault but the guys body just can't and has never really stood up to the abuse of an NBA season. Our best bet is to hope Utah stays the course, keeps the 8th seed that way we can slowly bring Manu along during that run to gear up for the 2nd round and hopefully WCF. I hope that he plays within himself when he returns he doesn't have that quick of a first step anymore but that Euro step is still pretty solid at least to create some kind of interior collapse. No more step back 3's just take the shot if it's decent

[Bruno]

And unless Ginobili has a playoff campaign at a MVP level, Spurs better not offer him a contract over $6M per year. With Ginobili being that unreliable, Spurs badly need to add a quality player with their cap space.

[SpurYank]

The moderators of this site should put up a huge sign for all the current Spurs so-called FANS. The sign should read NO WHINING. You may be eating your words soon."

About Manu: How do you whiners feel about American doctors, including your own? The data for the last couple of years is over 100, 000 patient deaths EACH YEAR due to doctor error. Heard it on NPR last Friday. The authoritative voice behind this date was a doctor himself. Making mistakes is a part of our human make-up. He added that the data is "of recorded information. No telling how many more deaths occur that are not reported."

Go look in the mirror.

[TheGoldStandard]

And unless Ginobili has a playoff campaign at a MVP level, Spurs better not offer him a contract over $6M per year. With Ginobili being that unreliable, Spurs badly need to add a quality player with their cap space.

Haha at 6M, at his age he should be making 1.5 a year.. Max 3 mil a season,

[Man In Black]

There is no grade on the hamstring injury. The issue is that an explosive move could aggravate a balky hamstring. But them saying 3-4 weeks means he's out for at least 2 weeks easy. It's about getting the muscles re-balanced. Once the strain is released, the body goes back into balance. That first 48 was lots of ice and from there, ace wrap figure 8 to help assist the leg motion from walking back and forth. the ace wraps figure 8 style to push the leg forward a bit and it's noticeable to the wearer.

Spurs aren't the favorites going in and things have to break a certain way to get it, but we all know that the playoffs are going to be tough. The road looks rocky but if they find a way to claim 1 for the thumb, this one may be the sweetest of all.

[TheGoldStandard]

There is no grade on the hamstring injury. The issue is that an explosive move could aggravate a balky hamstring. But them saying 3-4 weeks means he's out for at least 2 weeks easy. It's about getting the muscles re-balanced. Once the strain is released, the body goes back into balance. That first 48 was lots of ice and from there, ace wrap figure 8 to help assist the leg motion from walking back and forth. the ace wraps figure 8 style to push the leg forward a bit and it's noticeable to the wearer.

Spurs aren't the favorites going in and things have to break a certain way to get it, but we all know that the playoffs are going to be tough. The road looks rocky but if they find a way to claim 1 for the thumb, this one may be the sweetest of all.

If they manage to find the Golden Ticket and get past Slugworth, willy wonka and the oompa loompas in the finals then Tim and Manu should just have a walkoff.

[Man In Black]

If they manage to find the Golden Ticket and get past Slugworth, willy wonka and the oompa loompas in the finals then Tim and Manu should just have a walkoff.

Manu maybe, but Tim? That guy balls harder than KG and most people don't think he's going anywhere else this season or next.

[look_at_g_shred]

I believe this is what's best for Manu and the team. Having him out the rest of the season to rest that injury that has been lingering is good for him. Sure the hamstring injury could linger even when he does come back. But at least this move will help his chances of being healthy for the playoffs. I'm hoping this is what Manu needs to re-gain his confidence. The first round is going to be huge no matter the opponent.

[Budkin]

This season is spiraling down the shit hole right quick.

[TheGoldStandard]

Manu maybe, but Tim? That guy balls harder than KG and most people don't think he's going anywhere else this season or next.

If he captures gold I say hit the bricks and enjoy going out as a champion. Very few get that opportunity and some hang on too long.

[McGusto55]

Out for season...back for start of playoff....

[Budkin]

Remember, T, playing the injury card is a pussy & asshole protocol.

You have 15 slots and a world 6 hours away.

Get on with it.

Losing your best players has to count for something. It's not even the same team without them.

[rmt]

Spurs need to rest Duncan and Leonard as much as possible. If necessary, make sure they win vs ORL, LAL, MIN and SAC - tank the rest and make sure everyone's healthy and rested going into the playoffs. That'll ensure at least the 3rd seed vs GSW or HOU.

[superjames1992]

This sucks. I do wonder if Pop is just trying to get Manu fully healthy again before the playoffs. I saw the injury live and it didn't seem that bad. However, Manu has been struggling with lingering hamstring injuries all season, so maybe Pop just wants to let it get fully healed so he doesn't re-injure it when it really matters.

[spurtech09]

well I don't think it matters because manu hasn't been really doing anything to help the spurs the last couple of weeks.....manu will probably be back by the 2nd round of the play offs...that's if the spurs make it past the 1st round

[jag]

there is something seriously wrong with spurs fans, we are supposed to be the best fans in the NBA

http://guycodeblog.mtv.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mitt-romney-laughing.gif

[Thread]

Losing your best players has to count for something. It's not even the same team without them.

Doesn't matter. It's pussy & assholish to lodge the injury card. I won't do it. Nope. Uh, uh. & as long as I'm here I'll smight anyone that attempts it.

Utopia does not exist. You have 15 slots. Choosing to fill those 15 slots is vital. Choose wisely.

[justinandimcool]

Silver lining: at least he won't break anything on the last day of the season.

[HI-FI]

crap....figures with Manu though.

even if he makes it back for the playoffs, his rhythm will be really off and he'll probably create some mindboggling turnovers. Hopefully they can ease him back in a way that makes things easier. This whole season he's looked off. He was starting to look almost like vintage Manu before the original hamstring injury. But that's been the story for awhile now with him.


And unless Ginobili has a playoff campaign at a MVP level, Spurs better not offer him a contract over $6M per year. With Ginobili being that unreliable, Spurs badly need to add a quality player with their cap space.
this. I'm hoping he won't be butthurt by it and realize he isn't reliable, or hasn't been for quite awhile. Maybe if rests up well this summer, he can have a very productive final year or two with us at a very good price for us.

[007nites]

It's sad that even when he's averaging 23 mins and playing less than 60 games a season he still can't even manage to stay healthy.

[TheChillFactor]

Why did culburn get unbanned again?

[polandprzem]

And unless Ginobili has a playoff campaign at a MVP level, Spurs better not offer him a contract over $6M per year. With Ginobili being that unreliable, Spurs badly need to add a quality player with their cap space.

Ginos body needs few months of relief and then get back into shape IMO. I wold not offer him much. His production is not near the level we would wish.

[kobyz]

Come on... Really? Manu has been mediocre on D and ineffective on O far more than he has been productive this year. Kahwi has to be the 3rd best player by now if not for his D and energy alone... Manu rolls out of bed and he pulls a muscle... People still look at Manu and think of the potential but when is the last time he showed us that potential?

Manu still brings important leadership to the team that is unreplaced

[Bruno]

Ginos body needs few months of relief and then get back into shape IMO. I wold not offer him much. His production is not near the level we would wish.

While I would be thrilled to see Manu having a rebound year like Tim is having this year, I wouldn't bet on it. What Tim is having this year is quite exceptional. 35+ years old players are usually getting worst each year. The most likely scenario is 12-13 Ginobili > 13-14 Ginobili > 14-15 Ginobili.

Considering that, $6M per year for Ginobili might even be too generous...

[benstanfield]

We're absolutely screwed for as long as Pop gifts Manu's minutes to Gary "2 of 8" Neal. Give them to Patty, Nando, ANYONE else.

[ElNono]

http://guycodeblog.mtv.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mitt-romney-laughing.gif

:lol

[TD 21]

And unless Ginobili has a playoff campaign at a MVP level, Spurs better not offer him a contract over $6M per year. With Ginobili being that unreliable, Spurs badly need to add a quality player with their cap space.

I was just going to say the same thing. And you're right; even that might be too much, because of his lack of durability. But because of what he means to the franchise and the fact that his per minute numbers remain strong and they'll have a good amount of flexibility, I'd be fine with that.

I also agree that Pop needs to take the reigns off of De Colo. As we saw earlier in the season, the guy can make plays. Yeah, his turnover rate was through the roof, but that has to be secondary to generating as much offense as possible right now.

[Budkin]

Doesn't matter. It's pussy & assholish to lodge the injury card. I won't do it. Nope. Uh, uh. & as long as I'm here I'll smight anyone that attempts it.

Utopia does not exist. You have 15 slots. Choosing to fill those 15 slots is vital. Choose wisely.

I guess Miami proved that last night.

[Johnny RIngo]

Considering that, $6M per year for Ginobili might even be too generous...

He'll spend most of the time in a suit, so I can't imagine anyone offering anything more than the MLE for him.

[Johnny RIngo]

We're absolutely screwed for as long as Pop gifts Manu's minutes to Gary "2 of 8" Neal. Give them to Patty, Nando, ANYONE else.

None of those guys are a viable option tbqh.

Gary Neal's a chucker.
Patty's probably the worst defender/playmaker out of all our guards.
Nando is Boris Diaw in a guard's body. Defenders don't have to worry about him because he'll never look to score.

[DeadlyDynasty]

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120511213537/villains/images/f/f3/Elijah_Price.jpg

[hater]

Manu will play in one leg for the playoffs if necessary... you can take that one to the bank...

:rolleyes

manu on 2 legs was hurting the team

manu on 1 leg, pop might as well forfeit the series

[polandprzem]

While I would be thrilled to see Manu having a rebound year like Tim is having this year, I wouldn't bet on it. What Tim is having this year is quite exceptional. 35+ years old players are usually getting worst each year. The most likely scenario is 12-13 Ginobili > 13-14 Ginobili > 14-15 Ginobili.

Considering that, $6M per year for Ginobili might even be too generous...

It's sad tbh. I never though I can say that Manu is not worth damn when it comes to him being a guy that can provide a punch for a championship team. But it looks like he will regress now totally.
You've said it b4 IIRC.

All in all we need to look at another contributor for the next year - there is enough cap space there.
Tim will not play forever.


Gino is so injury prone it is ridiculous. And him getting back to the game shape an rhythm taking so many time. That's not good.

Damn whiskey screwing me a bit

[wildbill2u]

Even if he is cleared to play he will be out of game shape. This is extremely bad news for any chance at a championship this year.

[TE]

http://guycodeblog.mtv.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/mitt-romney-laughing.gif

:lol

[ElNono]

:rolleyes

manu on 2 legs was hurting the team

manu on 1 leg, pop might as well forfeit the series

What difference does it make, nobody is beating Miami anyways, right?

[Spur|n|Austin]

He'll be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs tbh.

Agreed..

[hater]

Even if he is cleared to play he will be out of game shape.

Manu was nowhere near game shape after the allstar break. and he wasn't getting in anyway

[Robz4000]

If the Spurs manage to hold on to that #1 seed despite all the injuries, they'll be in good shape. The Spurs won't get upset in the first round, the bottom teams of the West are just awful this year. The second round is a different story (and is where I currently see their ceiling), but if Manu and TP find their game/rhythm by then they'll have a 50/50 shot as long as they're facing the Clippers or Grizz.

[rjv]

he could get into shape by the time we reached a 2nd round assuming we did...but that's no guarantee with the way we have been playing as of late

[slick'81]

#1 seed is slipping away

[ElNono]

I think the biggest foes are OKC and the Grizz, and I think we have a shot at both... not sold any of the other teams in the West can beat us on a 7 game series with or without HCA. Call me a homer, and I could be wrong, but I think the Spurs in general will elevate their games a bit when the playoffs roll around and the adrenaline is there.

[Robz4000]

I think the biggest foes are OKC and the Grizz, and I think we have a shot at both... not sold any of the other teams in the West can beat us on a 7 game series with or without HCA. Call me a homer, and I could be wrong, but I think the Spurs in general will elevate their games a bit when the playoffs roll around and the adrenaline is there.

I actually think the Spurs can and would beat OKC in a 7 game series this year. The embarrassment of last year will be heavily on their minds and OKC doesn't match up as well as they did. Same with the Grizz, and I'm just not sold on them as a top 4 team in the West anyway. Denver, imo, will be the worst team for the Spurs and if they meet in the second round, Denver will win it in 6.

[ElNono]

I actually think the Spurs can and would beat OKC in a 7 game series this year. The embarrassment of last year will be heavily on their minds and OKC doesn't match up as well as they did. Same with the Grizz, and I'm just not sold on them as a top 4 team in the West anyway. Denver, imo, will be the worst team for the Spurs and if they meet in the second round, Denver will win it in 6.

Denver has all the traits of a regular season team. I'm not even 100% sold they'll get out of the first round. Playoffs are a slow-paced game, and their halfcourt game is fairly non-existent. Not really worried about them.

Much more worried about Memphis, since they have guys that can check all of our better players. Conley/Allen/Prince/Gasol matchup great with Parker/Manu/Kawhi/Tim... how healthy is Marc will play a large part on that, I believe.

[Robz4000]

Denver has all the traits of a regular season team. I'm not even 100% sold they'll get out of the first round. Playoffs are a slow-paced game, and their halfcourt game is fairly non-existent. Not really worried about them.

Much more worried about Memphis, since they have guys that can check all of our better players. Conley/Allen/Prince/Gasol matchup great with Parker/Manu/Kawhi/Tim... how healthy is Marc will play a large part on that, I believe.

Denver will more than likely face Golden State in the first round, who is even more unproven, injury prone, and far too dependent on 3-point shooting and home court. Denver will beat them in 5 or 6. This is all based on whether Ty Lawson is back and 100%, however. Should they face the Spurs, I can see their athleticism wear down the Spurs enough for them to sneak a win out of the AT&T Center, and I'm not convinced the Spurs can win a game in Denver.

The Grizzlies are extremely limited offensively, and it doesn't help Zbo has been struggling and Marc Gasol isn't 100% and prolly won't be. The Spurs' improved D might not be a joke as I previously thought, and the fact Tim/Tiago/Kawhi all play together and well at that on both ends makes the match up all the more even. Only thing that concerns me in a potential series is the physicality, which could cause an injury to any Spur considering how fragile everyone seems to be this year.

[chapnis]

April fools? Back for Orlando?

[dbreiden83080]

Manu still brings important leadership to the team that is unreplaced

That doesn't make him the 3rd best player on the team. He can't handle any physical play anymore without needing an extended vacation. And the palyoffs are very physical..

[superjames1992]

We're absolutely screwed for as long as Pop gifts Manu's minutes to Gary "2 of 8" Neal. Give them to Patty, Nando, ANYONE else.
+10000000000000000.

Assuming Manu can make it to the first round, he should be in rhythm and hopefully playing well by the second round, so we should be fine. Unless he injures himself again, that is...

Considering the plethora of injuries Manu has experienced over the years, he tends to avoid injuries that keep him sidelined in the playoffs. I know he missed the entire 2009 playoffs (and we got prison raped by Dallas, as a result), but I don't think he's ever missed another playoff game aside from that year (correct me if I'm wrong)?

EDIT: As Rob says, Manu missed game 1 vs. the Grizzlies in 2011. We lost that series 4-2 and lost the first game 101-98, which set the series spiraling into disaster.

[Robz4000]

+10000000000000000.

Assuming Manu can make it to the first round, he should be in rhythmic and hopefully playing well by the second round, so we should be fine. Unless he injures himself again, that is...

Considering the plethora of injuries Manu has experienced over the years, he tends to avoid injuries that keep him sidelined in the playoffs. I know he missed the entire 2009 playoffs (and we got prison raped by Dallas, as a result), but I don't think he's ever missed another playoff game aside from that year (correct me if I'm wrong)?

Game 1 against the Grizz in the 2011 Playoffs...

[boutons_deux]

Manu takes so long to get back in rhythm, he's done this season.

[superjames1992]

Game 1 against the Grizz in the 2011 Playoffs...
Damn, I forgot about that one. Granted, I've tried to wipe that sickening playoff series from my memory.

[ElNono]

Game 1 against the Grizz in the 2011 Playoffs...

That would be the game Manu wanted to play but Pop decided to be cautious and sit him out. I'm hoping Pop learned from that one.

[TMTTRIO]

good news is I think Manu will think about retirement now (he said he would wait and see how he's feeling at the end of the season).

[siraulo23]

with ginobili, it's more like 5-6 weeks tbh

[jag]

http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20120511213537/villains/images/f/f3/Elijah_Price.jpg

http://cdn.wl.uproxx.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/ZackAttack.gif

[ElNono]

Brent Barry saying on NBATV that Pop just gives long estimates so journalists stops asking him about when player X is coming back :lol

[chapnis]

Brent Barry saying on NBATV that Pop just gives long estimates so journalists stops asking him about when player X is coming back :lol

So true, except for Kawhis tendonitis :/

[maverick1948]

With Manu out for a long time, Pop needs to have a talk with De Colo asking him to take more responsibilities offensively.

I think the main reason why De Colo is doing so little offensively is because he just doesn't want to do mistakes that will put him in the doghouse. Pop needs to tell him that he has to do more play-making wise but also that he will lengthen his leash and not bench him at his first mistake. I'm not really sure that Nando can carry a bigger load, but he is Spurs best outside playmaker outside of Tony and Manu.

Nando has carried the load in Europe. He can carry the load here. He will carry the load. Knowing he is going to get good minutes on consistant basis, he will step up. He needs time with the 1st team. He needs time with Timmy, Tony and Splitter. The biggest thing to come out of this is for Danny Green. He will see more minutes with Nando. I see a small drop off for a few games, but Nando will got the confidence he needs to head into the playoffs. Even if Manu returns, he will see more game action. :toast

[kaji157]

Ginobili will be Spurs best player during the playoffs.
Mark it.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

tbh manu will probaby be ready before the playoffs start. this is just pop being overly cautious like always imo.

[therealtruth]

Isn't it ironic when Pop finally decided to stop play around with Ginobili's minutes in '11 he averaged a career high in minutes and stayed healthy? Pop treats Ginobili like a china doll which has prevented him from getting his rhythm and allows him to get these strain type of injuries. Another example is Splitter. Pop messed around with his minutes last year and he had all these injury issues. He finally decides to just play him and he's played every single game.

[freetiago]

Isn't it ironic when Pop finally decided to stop play around with Ginobili's minutes in '11 he averaged a career high in minutes and stayed healthy? Pop treats Ginobili like a china doll which has prevented him from getting his rhythm and allows him to get these strain type of injuries. Another example is Splitter. Pop messed around with his minutes last year and he had all these injury issues. He finally decides to just play him and he's played every single game.


strong username to post content ratio

[maverick1948]

None of those guys are a viable option tbqh.

Gary Neal's a chucker.
Patty's probably the worst defender/playmaker out of all our guards.
Nando is Boris Diaw in a guard's body. Defenders don't have to worry about him because he'll never look to score.

Would you feel better if you had a player who averaged per 36 11 pt 5 reb 5 asst 1.4 steal and only 3 TO's? How about 46% from the field and 41.5% from 3 pt? Those are De Colo's numbers for the year. Not bad after the start he had. I say give him the ball and let him play 25 to 28 mins and see what happens.

[TheGoldStandard]

Would you feel better if you had a player who averaged per 36 11 pt 5 reb 5 asst 1.4 steal and only 3 TO's? How about 46% from the field and 41.5% from 3 pt? Those are De Colo's numbers for the year. Not bad after the start he had. I say give him the ball and let him play 25 to 28 mins and see what happens.

Nah, here you go Gary go get em' and don't let up even if the shots not there.

[kobyz]

That doesn't make him the 3rd best player on the team. He can't handle any physical play anymore without needing an extended vacation. And the palyoffs are very physical..

thats different question, we don't talk whether he could stay healthy or not, we talk how much he's important to the team when he does play and i think he is the 3rd or 4th best player, cause even with his not shining play he still give impact and brings intangibles that make the team better.

[oski1000]

If Manu will be out of playoff the spurs are done in the second round.

[KaiRMD1]

2011 anyone?

[Budkin]

2011 anyone?

Feels like it.

[timtonymanu]

Feels like it.

Could be the same result, but the 2011 Grizzlies are better than any 1st round opponent we are getting this year. Plus this team is more suited for the playoffs than that 2011 fools gold team. The only major downgrade from the current Spurs is Manu Ginobili compared to 2011.

[james evans]

ginobli needs to retire. it's not that he gets hurt a lot, but a lot of times, his flopping leads to him getting hurt.

[emanueldavidginobili]

We miss Manu a lot more than people think, his shot my not be on but he is a ball handler and creator and takes a lot of pressure off of tony, there's literally only 2 players that can handle the ball good on the team and I might add Nando

[Budkin]

ginobli needs to retire. it's not that he gets hurt a lot, but a lot of times, his flopping leads to him getting hurt.
:rolleyes

[doldrums]

ginobli needs to retire. it's not that he gets hurt a lot, but a lot of times, his flopping leads to him getting hurt.

Nominate for one of the stupidest posts of the year. At least learn how to spell his name.

[Hoops Czar]

Out 3-4 weeks, BIG DEAL!!!

[elemento]

I know the hate on Manu is big right now on ST, but SA needs him.

SA's chances are already slim with him. Without Manu, SA has zero chance to win it all.

Hopefully he has a quick recover. I want to see Manu back 100% to play the playoffs.

[Spur|n|Austin]

ginobli needs to retire. it's not that he gets hurt a lot, but a lot of times, his flopping leads to him getting hurt.

:lol Name one time..

[hater]

time to wake up

Manu is 35 and that injury is hard to heal from. Plus the chance of reagravating is high. I hope Pop is a realist and assumes we are not getting a healthy Manu at least for the 1st 2 rounds.

Stephen Jackson, that is the guy that needs to turn it on, along with Kawhi and Parker. I think a solid TD, Parker, Kawhi, Jackson could possibly take us to round 2. Hopefully

[Brazil]

his flopping leads to him getting hurt.

:lmao

best quote of the year imho

[Kidd K]

Manu Ginobili's jersey is turning into a suit more and more every year.

Another year, another playoffs where Manu's unhealthy.

[DesignatedT]

Elliott just said on the broadcast that Manu told him that his hamstring really isn't bothering him right now and he isn't sure exactly when he will come back. The Spurs want to make sure that it is all the way healed and he doesn't re-injure it.

Great news and if you go by this it looks like he should definitely be ready for round 1 of the playoffs and maybe even sooner.

[UZER]

ginobli needs to retire. it's not that he gets hurt a lot, but a lot of times, his flopping leads to him getting hurt.


Nominate for one of the stupidest posts of the year. At least learn how to spell his name.

Why is this hard to believe? Every laughs at Dwyane Wade for always being hurt because he "flops" by throwing his body to the ground after every drive or any contact. Manu does the same thing.

It's not the one specific flop that hurts him, it's the numerous amount of times he hits the floor over and over when its really not necessary.

Flopping consist of allowing to body to take a hard fall for the purpose of selling the foul, and not bracing or protecting yourself from the fall as you normally would, resulting in more damage.

[superjames1992]

Elliott just said on the broadcast that Manu told him that his hamstring really isn't bothering him right now and he isn't sure exactly when he will come back. The Spurs want to make sure that it is all the way healed and he doesn't re-injure it.

Great news and if you go by this it looks like he should definitely be ready for round 1 of the playoffs and maybe even sooner.
:tu

[therealtruth]

Could be the same result, but the 2011 Grizzlies are better than any 1st round opponent we are getting this year. Plus this team is more suited for the playoffs than that 2011 fools gold team. The only major downgrade from the current Spurs is Manu Ginobili compared to 2011.

I don't know about that. If the Lakers make the playoffs they will be playing pretty well. There was such much complaining in '11 that the Grizzlies weren't really an eight seed. It will probably be the same thing over again.

[bklynspursfan]

I don't know about that. If the Lakers make the playoffs they will be playing pretty well. There was such much complaining in '11 that the Grizzlies weren't really an eight seed. It will probably be the same thing over again.

Lakers also have Nash/Artest out. And Kobe playing a ton of minutes. He played 48, 47, & 43 in his last 3 games

This team is deeper than the team in 2011.

[Robz4000]

Won't matter, OKC will draw the Lakers in the first round if they make it.

[DesignatedT]

The Lakers will get swept in round 1. No matter if they play us or OKC. They are expending so much energy trying to get there they will be relieved and content.

The Grizz were hungry and actually tanked to get the 8. Much different situations.

[Juggity]

Kobe playing a ton of minutes. He played 48, 47, & 43 in his last 3 games


Didn't realize he'd played 48. Here's to hoping he suffers a real injury soon as a result :toast

[timtonymanu]

The 2011 Grizzlies were arguably the 2nd best team in the West that season behind Dallas. It was no fluke they beat us and almost beat the Thunder.

The 6th-8th seeds this year are nothing compared to the 2011 Grizzlies. Even though we have sucked lately, the West is very weak.

[Robz4000]

If the Spurs play the way they did tonight, anyone can beat them. Luckily they'll play with more fire in the playoffs.

[Sean Cagney]

If the Spurs play the way they did tonight, anyone can beat them. Luckily they'll play with more fire in the playoffs.

You would hope they play with more fire in the playoffs.

[TMTTRIO]

I saw Manu walking around tonight without any limp and also climbing over the chairs several times. He's fine.

[superjames1992]

I saw Manu walking around tonight without any limp and also climbing over the chairs several times. He's fine.
CIA Pop with the resting goods. :toast

[ElNono]

I saw Manu walking around tonight without any limp and also climbing over the chairs several times. He's fine.

thanks for the good news

[Sean Cagney]

I saw Manu walking around tonight without any limp and also climbing over the chairs several times. He's fine.
Pop knows now fully, Health >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> #1 seed, period. That should have been a proven in 011 playoffs, period. He tried to play Manu that last game to get #1 over the Bulls! NO........ Health is the key here, that and assuming they can gel some.

[Robz4000]

That final game in 2011 that Manu got hurt in was a fluke. If I were in Pop's shoes back then I'd of played everyone in it too. Good tune up game before the playoffs and it was the easier game compared to the Lakers the night before. Pop should play the final game of this season the same way, though I'm thinking he prolly won't.

[heyheymymy]

that game in 2011 when manu got his arm caught in grant hill and broke it in what was literally game 82/82 was just heart-breaking. this is hopefully nothing like that and sounds like it's going to be okay. i calmed down when i saw the capt jack tweet about how everybody was going to be ready. i think they flip the switch in the playoffs and this slack play lately is just coasting to stay healthy.

[Bruno]

Great news that Manu feels fine. :tu

Spurs/Pop are facing quite a dilemma:
- First option: Letting Manu come back few games before the playoffs to have him in rhythm for the first round. The risk would be that he re-injures his hamstring like it happened with the other one in January. Another injury would be a disaster for Spurs.
- Second option: Wait the playoffs or the last game of the regular season to bring Manu back. Risk of a re-injury would be lowered but Manu would be out of rhythm/shape for the start of the playoffs. The risk would be to lose in the first round or have a long tiring series.

[Ice009]

that game in 2011 when manu got his arm caught in grant hill and broke it in what was literally game 82/82 was just heart-breaking. this is hopefully nothing like that and sounds like it's going to be okay. i calmed down when i saw the capt jack tweet about how everybody was going to be ready. i think they flip the switch in the playoffs and this slack play lately is just coasting to stay healthy.

Coasting? Are you saying that the Spurs want Tim Duncan playing his ass off just to get wins against crappy teams while everyone else coasts? That is absolutely unacceptable for everyone else to coast while Tim plays his ass off every game.

I don't want to hear this coasting excuse, because that is all it is, an excuse.

Spurs have lost mental focus and have been playing very poorly when closing games for weeks now. That shit has to stop, because that is how pretenders play. Spurs need to sort their shit out, and sort it out quickly. It's almost every player on the team making these mental errors.

[TrainOfThought5]

where is this myth that the spurs are coasting coming from?? its taking every ounce of Timmy D and Kawhi's best to beat these mediocre teams.

[benefactor]

Great news that Manu feels fine. :tu

Spurs/Pop are facing quite a dilemma:
- First option: Letting Manu come back few games before the playoffs to have him in rhythm for the first round. The risk would be that he re-injures his hamstring like it happened with the other one in January. Another injury would be a disaster for Spurs.
- Second option: Wait the playoffs or the last game of the regular season to bring Manu back. Risk of a re-injury would be lowered but Manu would be out of rhythm/shape for the start of the playoffs. The risk would be to lose in the first round or have a long tiring series.
I think if he is ready you roll the dice and bring him back a couple of games before. The best shot for the Spurs to advance deep into the playoffs is to have Manu close to being in rhythm when the playoffs start and get the first round over with quickly. He could just as easily get hurt the first game of the first round as he could a game or two before. With either scenario(wait until the start of the playoffs/bringing him back a couple of games before) have just as much injury risk, it makes more sense to go with the scenario that gives the Spurs the best chance of advancing.

[Pop]

where is this myth that the spurs are coasting coming from?? its taking every ounce of Timmy D and Kawhi's best to beat these mediocre teams.

Yeah I agree it's hilarious to read that, like there wasn't a real trend that last several weeks.

[hater]

no no

rest Manu as much as possible. I rather have manu come in round 1 and reinjure himself a few games into the series than reinjure himself before playoffs even start

[Seventyniner]

Great news that Manu feels fine. :tu

Spurs/Pop are facing quite a dilemma:
- First option: Letting Manu come back few games before the playoffs to have him in rhythm for the first round. The risk would be that he fractures his damn arm in the meaningless last game of the regular season. Another injury would be a disaster for Spurs.
- Second option: Wait the playoffs or the last game of the regular season to bring Manu back. Risk of a re-injury would be lowered but Manu would be out of rhythm/shape for the start of the playoffs. The risk would be to lose in the first round or have a long tiring series.

Fixed.

[benefactor]

And how is his him getting injured in one scenario better than the other?

[MaNu4Tres]

I would rather Manu just sit out til the playoffs. Work on his conditioning and strength to get his legs under him as much as he can. Playing games won't necessarily build strength in his legs ( which he desperately needs). Games will just possibly create a rhythm to a degree and the strength in his legs won't necessarily get where they need to be for him to be as effective as we are accustomed to seeing.

[Mugen]

no no

rest Manu as much as possible. I rather have manu come in round 1 and reinjure himself a few games into the series than reinjure himself before playoffs even start

Never thought I'd agree with this mouth-breather tbh.

[TampaDude]

Can we PLEASE just have a fully healthy team for the playoffs? Is that too much to ask? Guess so...

[timtonymanu]

Can we PLEASE just have a fully healthy team for the playoffs? Is that too much to ask? Guess so...

THIS, tbh. Enough is enough. :lol

[Mugen]

Can we PLEASE just have a fully healthy team for the playoffs? Is that too much to ask? Guess so...

Had it last year.

[Fireball]

Had it last year.

This. We had our chance last year and we blew it because defense was not good enough. This year we have better defense, but obviously playing defense takes a tough toll on the bodies of our Spurs players ...

[Spur|n|Austin]

I'm all for bringing him back by the 1st round series, not before. This is in hopes that we should have a decently easy match-up and easing Manu back during that would be better than risking injury by bringing him back too soon. Thanks TMTTRIO for the good news! :tu

[TD 21]

I think if he is ready you roll the dice and bring him back a couple of games before. The best shot for the Spurs to advance deep into the playoffs is to have Manu close to being in rhythm when the playoffs start and get the first round over with quickly. He could just as easily get hurt the first game of the first round as he could a game or two before. With either scenario(wait until the start of the playoffs/bringing him back a couple of games before) have just as much injury risk, it makes more sense to go with the scenario that gives the Spurs the best chance of advancing.

Exactly (I can't believe it, either). People have this idea that a couple extra days "can't hurt", but this isn't a general soreness type thing, like it is with Parker, to where a couple extra days could make a difference. This is a specific injury and when it's healed, it's healed. It doesn't magically get more or less healed after that point. Besides, this team is clearly vulnerable and needs every shred of confidence/rhythm they can muster going into the playoffs.

[KaiRMD1]

Whatever happens, happens, we've been dealt these cards and we just gotta play with what we got. If we can get a Manu back with his rhythm back, that would be great, same with Tony but the other guys need to play their roles and make their f'n shots.

[Fabbs]

Great news that Manu feels fine. :tu

Spurs/Pop are facing quite a dilemma:
- First option: Letting Manu come back few games before the playoffs to have him in rhythm for the first round. The risk would be that he re-injures his hamstring like it happened with the other one in January. Another injury would be a disaster for Spurs.
- Second option: Wait the playoffs or the last game of the regular season to bring Manu back. Risk of a re-injury would be lowered but Manu would be out of rhythm/shape for the start of the playoffs. The risk would be to lose in the first round or have a long tiring series.
Combine the two.
Wait til playoffs start thus avoid another 2011 dipstick move foolishly chasing the overall #1 seed.
Let Manu get in rhythm during Round 1.
Are the Spurs soo good / #7 or #8 so bad that they can risk this? Yes they should be able to beat a 7 or 8 with 85% Manu for the 1st game or two.

If the Spurs end up drawing the Lakers in Round 1 and this is another rigged year, NO amount of good playing is going to overcome the fix.