Spurs 2nd Round Draft Pick: Deshaun Thomas

[ace3g]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4s92pB3_4M

[rjv]

RC stated in his during the game interview that there was a roster spot behind kwai that has to be filled. this is the answer he gave when asked about thomas. RC also mentioned how pop will place demands on thomas but that they had been impressed .with deshaun's work ethic.

[DJR210]

So they brought him back I see..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZQnYmTCuqc&feature=player_embedded

[itzsoweezee]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4s92pB3_4M


Based on this video, it seems he's good at making bad shots. Not sure that translates into a roster spot.

[Rito3d30]

I see a little bit of the James Anderson when everybody loved in him
Better offense, worse defense version

[Russ]

He's a great shooter, no doubt.

But I'm even more impressed with his passing, ball-handling and confidence.

[Darkwaters]

He's a great shooter, no doubt.

But I'm even more impressed with his passing, ball-handling and confidence.


Hes definitely got the Spurs offense extra pass around the perimeter thing down.

[jesterbobman]

I don't think that he can be a fulltime SF, but in looking for a backup we should realize that they don't have to be able to cover every SF. Kawhi will start and play major minutes, Danny and Manu can cover lineups with a SG or small wing, so Deshaun would just cover the big backup SFs in the reg season. If you can't get Kirilenko, opting cheap is a good option. He wouldn't play much in the playoffs unless Kawhi is injured. If that happens, we're not winning anyway.

[FireMicoHalili]

when you say tbh does it mean you weren't 'h' the whole time

[toki9]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4s92pB3_4M
Most of his shots were from the right side of the floor...i guess he likes midrange from that side...

[Captivus]

Ive seen worst player getting minutes for the Spurs.
He has a chance.

[coyotes_geek]

I like his scoring and offensive game. He seems like a very smart player and can obviously score. Saying that, he looks like an undersized stretch 4 to me. He might be able to play the 3 at the NBA level at times but it will strictly depend on matchups.

I think you're right in your assessment, but "undersized stretch 4" just doesn't sound like a recipe for a successful NBA player.

[8FOR!3]

Based on this video, it seems he's good at making bad shots. Not sure that translates into a roster spot.

I don't see it.

[yavozerb]

My very early take so far on DT:
-Shooting is above average and his strength is his in between game. Great at pull up jumpers and 3pt shot is definatly in his range but not his strong suit as of yet.
-Passing is average and seems to have no problem passing to the open man.
-Dribbling is average and does not seem to over dribble.
-Rebounding is average for someone his size. Has no problem going down low to rebound but his lack of athletcism and size hurt him here but his desire to get a rebound sometimes overcomes this.
-Defense is below average regardles of position. Lacking size for the 4 and quickenss for the 3 he is a definate tweener on this side of the ball. I expect this part of his game to improve the most over the next 2-3 seasons. I agree with most who indicate his position is the 3 in the NBA long term so he is going to have to work on his agility but I think this is attainable.
-Dedication is above average. This is what make get him on the spurs roster more so than any other attribute. Seems to have a similar work ethic as Leonard and wants to be the best at what he does.
- Another asset that needs to be mentioned is his age of 21 and low draft pick salary. Is young for a 3 year college player and seems to have a higher ceiling than most college juniors entering the NBA. I mentioned his draft pick status since he will have a low salary for the coming seasons and this will definatly help his chances of making the spurs.

[Darkwaters]

My very early take so far on DT:
-Shooting is above average and his strength is his in between game. Great at pull up jumpers and 3pt shot is definatly in his range but not his strong suit as of yet.
-Passing is average and seems to have no problem passing to the open man.
-Dribbling is average and does not seem to over dribble.
-Rebounding is average for someone his size. Has no problem going down low to rebound but his lack of athletcism and size hurt him here but his desire to get a rebound sometimes overcomes this.
-Defense is below average regardles of position. Lacking size for the 4 and quickenss for the 3 he is a definate tweener on this side of the ball. I expect this part of his game to improve the most over the next 2-3 seasons. I agree with most who indicate his position is the 3 in the NBA long term so he is going to have to work on his agility but I think this is attainable.
-Dedication is above average. This is what make get him on the spurs roster more so than any other attribute. Seems to have a similar work ethic as Leonard and wants to be the best at what he does.
- Another asset that needs to be mentioned is his age of 21 and low draft pick salary. Is young for a 3 year college player and seems to have a higher ceiling than most college juniors entering the NBA. I mentioned his draft pick status since he will have a low salary for the coming seasons and this will definatly help his chances of making the spurs.

A pretty solid take. I definitely think his passing is an asset. Hes not one to go for the flashy move, but just the functional one.

All and all thats what I think I like about him. Hes a guy that seems like he can thrive on just taking what an offense gives him and converting the shots he gets. He doesn't appear to be someone thats prone to forcing the issue. He'll never be an alpha-scorer (as I've heard it called) but he'll be a guy that can kill opposing teams if they choose to play him the wrong way.

[Baam]

He deserves to make the team, he outplayed both Cory and De Colo, he can score in the post and from the perimeter like Boris and would be a huge asset if used properly imo.

Bonner and Splitter = one dimensional with no post game = biggest post season underachievers of the last few years

Neal = no defense but most versatile offensive player not named Parker = biggest post season overachiever of the last few years

Boris Diaw = fat and slow with both post game and outside shot = one of the most useful players in the post season

Do the right thing RC.

[2centsworth]

My very early take so far on DT:
-Shooting is above average and his strength is his in between game. Great at pull up jumpers and 3pt shot is definatly in his range but not his strong suit as of yet.
-Passing is average and seems to have no problem passing to the open man.
-Dribbling is average and does not seem to over dribble.
-Rebounding is average for someone his size. Has no problem going down low to rebound but his lack of athletcism and size hurt him here but his desire to get a rebound sometimes overcomes this.
-Defense is below average regardles of position. Lacking size for the 4 and quickenss for the 3 he is a definate tweener on this side of the ball. I expect this part of his game to improve the most over the next 2-3 seasons. I agree with most who indicate his position is the 3 in the NBA long term so he is going to have to work on his agility but I think this is attainable.
-Dedication is above average. This is what make get him on the spurs roster more so than any other attribute. Seems to have a similar work ethic as Leonard and wants to be the best at what he does.
- Another asset that needs to be mentioned is his age of 21 and low draft pick salary. Is young for a 3 year college player and seems to have a higher ceiling than most college juniors entering the NBA. I mentioned his draft pick status since he will have a low salary for the coming seasons and this will definatly help his chances of making the spurs.

This

[tim_duncan_fan]

Sign him up! He'll do more for us than Bonner does, even if he gives up points.

[dbestpro]

Deshaun Thomas 6-7 215. Chuck Person 6-8 220. Person played mostly SF over his career, and wasn't considered the best of defenders as a player.

“I wasn’t a great individual defender by any stretch, but I was a good team defender, and I focused on those techniques,” This comment is in regards to the defense he learned once he joined the Spurs, and has lead him to be considered a solid defensive coach, now.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

He's pretty damn impressive for a second round pick. Let's see if he can become a defender at all because he's a natural on offense. Another draft steal by the Spurs??

[Marcus Bryant]

I am sure he can learn team D. Another thing to consider is that as a backup, he'd be going against backups primarily.

If the Spurs decide to bring him in next season, they'll likely sign him to an inexpensive 2 to 3 year deal. And if Jean-Charles is worth it he's capped by the rookie scale, which is inexpensive for the 28th pick.

Here's to you, RC. :drunk

[G-Dawgg]

Looks like James Anderson.

He looks like the "instant offense" pick the Spurs were hoping for when they selected both James Anderson and Marcus Denmon..

[spurraider21]

He looks like the "instant offense" pick the Spurs were hoping for when they selected both James Anderson and Marcus Denmon..

I'm still disappointed with Anderson. I mean Denmon was an undersized 2 guard, so I wasn't very optimistic in the first place. But Anderson was called "the best shooter in the draft" was a good scorer, supposedly was able to get his own shot and put the ball on the floor. Plus at 6'6 215 he had really good size. At least we found Danny Green, but I used to have supremely high hopes for Anderson. Klay Thompson has essentially become what we were hoping out of J.A.

[sexinthatsx]

I'm still disappointed with Anderson. I mean Denmon was an undersized 2 guard, so I wasn't very optimistic in the first place. But Anderson was called "the best shooter in the draft" was a good scorer, supposedly was able to get his own shot and put the ball on the floor. Plus at 6'6 215 he had really good size. At least we found Danny Green, but I used to have supremely high hopes for Anderson. Klay Thompson has essentially become what we were hoping out of J.A.

Klay Thompson is light years better than James Anderson. The reason James Anderson was called the best shooter in the draft was because all he did was shoot 3's, he didn't have a complete offensive game. furthermore, if you watched a lot of his college years, most of his shots were spot-up shots - he wasn't able to create his own shots. Klay on the other hand has proven that he can create his own shot, and that translated well into the NBA

[spurraider21]

Klay Thompson is light years better than James Anderson. The reason James Anderson was called the best shooter in the draft was because all he did was shoot 3's, he didn't have a complete offensive game. furthermore, if you watched a lot of his college years, most of his shots were spot-up shots - he wasn't able to create his own shots. Klay on the other hand has proven that he can create his own shot, and that translated well into the NBA

I know. There's a reason we were able to land Anderson outside the lottery (even though he was projected to go higher) and there's a reason Klay was the 11th overall pick. I just think a lot of us had the vision of Anderson becoming the type of player that Klay has become

[TXstbobcat]

Thomas can be a great scorer coming off the bench. This could be a 2nd round pick that can help us immediately this season.

[2centsworth]

He's a natural scorer with a nice stroke. As far as d, WAY too early to decide. If he continues to improve he should make the team.

[ace3g]

http://ht.cdn.turner.com/nba/nba/video/teams/spurs/2013/07/16/130716thomasmp4-2542377-10.576x324.jpg (http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/2013/07/16/130716thomasmp4-2542377)
Summer League: DeShaun Thomas
7.16.13 |
3m48s

* let spurs.com know it didn't upload correctly

[Darius McCrary]

Why's he look so fat, does he even try to stay fit?

[ace3g]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2mfb-L2wfU

[BackHome]

Every time I watch him play I think of one of my favorite players "CHUCK PERSON"....:)

[Duncanonu]

So far I like what I see offensively. I'd expect that if he makes the team, pop will bring him along slowly and make team defense the first priority. Let's not forget the struggles that even veterans have had in their first year as a Spur. The system has a reputation for taking some time to get down. Add that to pops history of not being a fan of giving rookies valuable time (except tony and maybe kawhi) and I think we can't expect much this year. But, as a late second round pick, I think he looks great so far. Put it into perspective, Manu was drafted in the same area of the draft and didn't play for two years, and was older than Thomas is. Patience.

[Obstructed_View]

Why's he look so fat, does he even try to stay fit?

He's got kind of a round face, but he looks to be in WAY better shape now than he was in college. If you watch the highlight video ace3g posted, he looks long and muscular.

[sexinthatsx]

Deshaun Thomas aka Captain America:

https://si0.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000136769588/cd1cb66fbbe4c33a205c1eabacb3b767.jpeg

via his Twitter profile pic

Doesn't look too fat to me, definitely slimmed down from the freshman 15 :lol
I think every player that gets drafted by the Spurs anticipates that they have have to bring not just their offensive game to make the team, but everything on the table. Hence the reason why the players that get cut because they can't make it on the Spurs end up being starters on other teams *cough Alonzo Gee cough* lol

[ace3g]

PLAYER NAME
GP
MPG
PTS
FGM-FGA
FG%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG


Andrew Goudelock (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_andrew_goudelock/index.html)(CHI)

3
30.3
22.7
7.7-13.7
0.561
3.7
2.0
1.30
0.00


CJ McCollum (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_cj_mccollum/index.html)(POR)

3
35.0
21.3
7.7-20.3
0.377
4.7
3.3
0.70
0.70


Jeffery Taylor (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jeffery_taylor/index.html)(CHA)

3
31.0
21.0
7.0-14.7
0.477
2.7
0.3
1.70
0.00


Jonas Valanciunas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jonas_valanciunas/index.html)(TOR)

3
28.7
20.0
6.0-11.3
0.529
9.3
1.3
0.30
0.30


Josh Akognon (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_josh_akognon/index.html)(DAL)

3
26.0
19.3
6.3-14.0
0.452
2.0
0.3
2.00
0.00


John Jenkins (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_john_jenkins/index.html)(ATL)

3
30.7
19.3
7.0-17.3
0.404
4.3
2.3
1.00
0.30


Austin Rivers (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_austin_rivers/index.html)(NOP)

3
33.3
17.3
6.7-14.3
0.465
4.0
2.7
1.30
0.30


Marquis Teague (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_marquis_teague/index.html)(CHI)

3
30.7
17.3
5.7-13.0
0.436
2.7
5.7
0.70
0.00


Ben McLemore (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_ben_mclemore/index.html)(SAC)

3
31.3
17.0
5.3-16.3
0.327
3.7
0.0
0.70
0.30


Deshaun Thomas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_deshaun_thomas/index.html)(SAS)

3
28.7
17.0
6.7-12.3
0.541
5.0
1.0
0.70
0.30

[timtonymanu]

I'm still disappointed with Anderson. I mean Denmon was an undersized 2 guard, so I wasn't very optimistic in the first place. But Anderson was called "the best shooter in the draft" was a good scorer, supposedly was able to get his own shot and put the ball on the floor. Plus at 6'6 215 he had really good size. At least we found Danny Green, but I used to have supremely high hopes for Anderson. Klay Thompson has essentially become what we were hoping out of J.A.

I think you're being a little too harsh on James Anderson. We will never know how good he could have been because of that injury. This is the same injury that has turned players like the great Roddy B and Travis Outlaw into inefficient players.

[AusSpur]

In his interview video that is David Bertrans you can see getting his knee worked on by a trainer just behind DT.

[Leetonidas]

PLAYER NAME
GP
MPG
PTS
FGM-FGA
FG%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG


Andrew Goudelock (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_andrew_goudelock/index.html)(CHI)

3
30.3
22.7
7.7-13.7
0.561
3.7
2.0
1.30
0.00


CJ McCollum (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_cj_mccollum/index.html)(POR)

3
35.0
21.3
7.7-20.3
0.377
4.7
3.3
0.70
0.70


Jeffery Taylor (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jeffery_taylor/index.html)(CHA)

3
31.0
21.0
7.0-14.7
0.477
2.7
0.3
1.70
0.00


Jonas Valanciunas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jonas_valanciunas/index.html)(TOR)

3
28.7
20.0
6.0-11.3
0.529
9.3
1.3
0.30
0.30


Josh Akognon (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_josh_akognon/index.html)(DAL)

3
26.0
19.3
6.3-14.0
0.452
2.0
0.3
2.00
0.00


John Jenkins (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_john_jenkins/index.html)(ATL)

3
30.7
19.3
7.0-17.3
0.404
4.3
2.3
1.00
0.30


Austin Rivers (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_austin_rivers/index.html)(NOP)

3
33.3
17.3
6.7-14.3
0.465
4.0
2.7
1.30
0.30


Marquis Teague (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_marquis_teague/index.html)(CHI)

3
30.7
17.3
5.7-13.0
0.436
2.7
5.7
0.70
0.00


Ben McLemore (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_ben_mclemore/index.html)(SAC)

3
31.3
17.0
5.3-16.3
0.327
3.7
0.0
0.70
0.30


Deshaun Thomas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_deshaun_thomas/index.html)(SAS)

3
28.7
17.0
6.7-12.3
0.541
5.0
1.0
0.70
0.30



Austin Rivers being on that list makes me not want to value it too much so far :lol

He does have the 2nd highest FG% though which is impressive

[dylankerouac]

PLAYER NAME
GP
MPG
PTS
FGM-FGA
FG%
RPG
APG
SPG
BPG


Andrew Goudelock (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_andrew_goudelock/index.html)(CHI)
3
30.3
22.7
7.7-13.7
0.561
3.7
2.0
1.30
0.00


CJ McCollum (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_cj_mccollum/index.html)(POR)
3
35.0
21.3
7.7-20.3
0.377
4.7
3.3
0.70
0.70


Jeffery Taylor (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jeffery_taylor/index.html)(CHA)
3
31.0
21.0
7.0-14.7
0.477
2.7
0.3
1.70
0.00


Jonas Valanciunas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_jonas_valanciunas/index.html)(TOR)
3
28.7
20.0
6.0-11.3
0.529
9.3
1.3
0.30
0.30


Josh Akognon (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_josh_akognon/index.html)(DAL)
3
26.0
19.3
6.3-14.0
0.452
2.0
0.3
2.00
0.00


John Jenkins (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_john_jenkins/index.html)(ATL)
3
30.7
19.3
7.0-17.3
0.404
4.3
2.3
1.00
0.30


Austin Rivers (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_austin_rivers/index.html)(NOP)
3
33.3
17.3
6.7-14.3
0.465
4.0
2.7
1.30
0.30


Marquis Teague (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_marquis_teague/index.html)(CHI)
3
30.7
17.3
5.7-13.0
0.436
2.7
5.7
0.70
0.00


Ben McLemore (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_ben_mclemore/index.html)(SAC)
3
31.3
17.0
5.3-16.3
0.327
3.7
0.0
0.70
0.30


Deshaun Thomas (http://www.nba.com/summerleague/2013/players/sl_deshaun_thomas/index.html)(SAS)
3
28.7
17.0
6.7-12.3
0.541
5.0
1.0
0.70
0.30




Fewest attempts among non-centers.
Second best percentage.
best rebounding rate among non-centers. (He's a good rebounder among high scoters already adding a dimension to his game)
assist rate not so great but its in line with his career averages, he's not known to get many assists (playing with the Spurs should help up the average though, especially if Thomas is creating before the pass)

Hes making a strong case to join the team and there just happens to be an opening at his position.

[ceperez]

Can't believe this guy was drafted at 58!

Just watching the SL games. You can see he can shoot from anywhere in the court!

He's got this hook shot while in the paint.
He's got some kind of floater going.
He can shoot while being crowded. Doesn't need a lot of daylight.

Yeah, maybe his speed and defense are suspect but he definitely has skills!

[Russ]

Why's he look so fat, does he even try to stay fit?

Better fat than frail (like James Anderson).

[TheGreatYacht]

So far I like what I see offensively. I'd expect that if he makes the team, pop will bring him along slowly and make team defense the first priority. Let's not forget the struggles that even veterans have had in their first year as a Spur. The system has a reputation for taking some time to get down. Add that to pops history of not being a fan of giving rookies valuable time (except tony and maybe kawhi) and I think we can't expect much this year. But, as a late second round pick, I think he looks great so far. Put it into perspective, Manu was drafted in the same area of the draft and didn't play for two years, and was older than Thomas is. Patience.I actually think that Pop is one of the best coaches at giving the green light to youngsters. Hasn't Pop in the past thrown players into the fire such as Beno Udrih, Dejuan Blair, George Hill, James Anderson, and Kawhi Leonard? As much as I criticize Pop, I admire his ability to coach and trust young players throughout the years.

[Darkwaters]

He looks like the "instant offense" pick the Spurs were hoping for when they selected both James Anderson and Marcus Denmon..

I think when you're drafting in the late 50's you're not necessarily looking for anything in particular. Instead you're just looking for the player with the greatest possibility of actually getting through training camp without being cut. Denmon was taken at 59 and Thomas at 58. I don't see any special correlation except that the scouts thought that these two guys might actually be NBA players.

[emanueldavidginobili]

If Draymond Green can play in the NBA then DT sure as Hell can are you kidding me. Also Draymond Green plays at the 3 and he's the same height as DT and heavier so there's no doubt in my mind DT can compete at the 3

[Bruno]

It's very easy to understand why Thomas was available at #58. If you compare him to the average NBA player, he is way too slow to play SF and way too small/thin/weak to play PF. He really doesn't fit the mold of a traditional NBA player.

Saying that, by scoring 20ppg as a junior in good big ten team and with his first three good SL games, he is for sure showing that he is a good basketball player. Now, the big question mark is how his atypical profile could work in the NBA. Pop/Spurs are known to be able to get the best of their players but they face quite a big challenge with this one.

[Atl Spur]

If Draymond Green can play in the NBA then DT sure as Hell can are you kidding me. Also Draymond Green plays at the 3 and he's the same height as DT and heavier so there's no doubt in my mind DT can compete at the 3

I agree!!! Better agility + shot!!!

[ceperez]

It's very easy to understand why Thomas was available at #58. If you compare him to the average NBA player, he is way too slow to play SF and way too small/thin/weak to play PF. He really doesn't fit the mold of a traditional NBA player.

Saying that, by scoring 20ppg as a junior in good big ten team and with his first three good SL games, he is for sure showing that he is a good basketball player. Now, the big question mark is how his atypical profile could work in the NBA. Pop/Spurs are known to be able to get the best of their players but they face quite a big challenge with this one.

Or could it be that Spurs told him to tell everyone that he refused to give the Spurs his phone number?

The Spurs FO are into all these kind of tricks. Do you recall Batum with that heart problem? If the Spurs want someone, they'll tell them to make up a story.

[kobyz]

Thomas has amazing assertiveness and excellent jump shot that will make him very good offensive player, the obstacle with him will be defensivly because of his poor athletic atributes, but he seems to be fairly smart and determined person, so with time and work he could understand how to hide some of his weaknesses by learning certain defensive tactics and tendencies.
and btw his nickname should be "Old School"...

[Mr. Body]

It's very easy to understand why Thomas was available at #58. If you compare him to the average NBA player, he is way too slow to play SF and way too small/thin/weak to play PF. He really doesn't fit the mold of a traditional NBA player.

Saying that, by scoring 20ppg as a junior in good big ten team and with his first three good SL games, he is for sure showing that he is a good basketball player. Now, the big question mark is how his atypical profile could work in the NBA. Pop/Spurs are known to be able to get the best of their players but they face quite a big challenge with this one.

Agreed on the above. But a player with questionable athleticism but superior scoring skills normally is found at the end of the first or at worst beginning of the second round. Where they got him you normally find total shots in the dark, plodding big men, or undersize shooting guards. Especially given how thin this draft was a guy like Thomas shouldn't have fallen almost out of the draft.

[playblair]

If Draymond Green can play in the NBA then DT sure as Hell can are you kidding me. Also Draymond Green plays at the 3 and he's the same height as DT and heavier so there's no doubt in my mind DT can compete at the 3

word...................

[ace3g]

Jonathan Givony @DraftExpress
(http://twitter.com/DraftExpress)Kelly Olynyk, DeShaun Thomas, Ray McCallum, Tim Hardaway, Reggie Bullock C.J. McCollum Victor Oladipo RT @Mr_TQ (http://twitter.com/Mr_TQ) Top 2013 draft picks in PER?

[dbestpro]

Watching all these athletes run up and down the floor and clanging shot after shot reminds me that putting the ball in the basket is becoming a lost skill.

[raybies]

From my observations, he plays the game non complicated. He makes the right moves on offense, whether its pump fakes and drives, spot up shooting on the pick and roll, or making the easy pass for a good to great shot. He also rebounds adequately for his size.

What I like the most from him is his movement without the ball. He hasn't played much 3 for us during the summer league which is telling. It seems the Spurs see him as a situational 3 and small ball four which makes sense considering we already have Manu and Marco to man the 2 and 3, if Green does in fact stay in the starting lineup. R.C. did mention him as a backup to Kawhi, but I think that was a technical term.

If he played like he does now in summer league during the season one might think he is more valuable than a Boris due to his shot making ability, driving, and passing skills.

We know he's too small for a 4 and too slow for a 3 but in an evolving NBA landscape that's moving towards small ball, he could be prototypical in that aspect. He could hide on a Tiago Splitter or Kendrick Perkins. Don't like saying one of our own guys but he has already done it against Cody Zeller and Mike Scott although Scott did go off. He would fit very well as a weapon that hides on another limited player(Mike Miller), a player that isn't a primary option on offense(Tayshaun Prince), or someone you could live with as a scorer(Dramont Green).

All in all I think he could contribute next year especially if he plays like this and continues to grow the way he has. I would put him at 20 mins with 9 points 4 boards or 10-15mins around 7 points and 3 boards considering he is a high per guy.

[r0drig0lac]

in my opinion, it somewhat resembles diaw less ability to pass and shot better or easiness of getting his own shot, but what surprises me and reading before the summer league, thought he was a guy individualist, but he has offense played right, and left the game to go for it, have to face a spurs player system

[sexinthatsx]

I actually think that Pop is one of the best coaches at giving the green light to youngsters. Hasn't Pop in the past thrown players into the fire such as Beno Udrih, Dejuan Blair, George Hill, James Anderson, and Kawhi Leonard? As much as I criticize Pop, I admire his ability to coach and trust young players throughout the years.

Your takes are so horrible... the reason they got playing time was because of injuries, it was a last resort.

[TheGreatYacht]

Your takes are so horrible... the reason they got playing time was because of injuries, it was a last resort.Pop trusted them enough and most of them panned out. Some of them ended up leaving or not staying with the Spurs long term but that's a different story. Pop trusts anyone that can play. He don't give a fuck about age. I'm surprised that you disagreed on me complimenting Pop, I mean aren't you supposed to be a Popsucker?

[sexinthatsx]

Pop trusted them enough and most of them panned out. Some of them ended up leaving or not staying with the Spurs long term but that's a different story. Pop trusts anyone that can play. He don't give a fuck about age. I'm surprised that you disagreed on me complimenting Pop, I mean aren't you supposed to be a Popsucker?

It's not trusting players if it's your only option to play them dummy...

-Danny Green's emergence came at the expense of Ginobili's injury and lack of depth at SF at the time
-Dejuan Blair's emergence came when he was only Center on the Spurs team not name Matt Bonner
-Beno's emergence came from the ankle injuries Parker always had
-I don't even know why the fuck you mentioned James Anderson, that guy averaged like 2 minutes of playing time max, he shouldn't even be in this discussion
-Kawhi Leonard's emergence came because S-Jax was waived (yeah I said it). You really think if S-Jax was on the team Kawhi would have seen any more than 17-20+ minutes on the floor? I don't think so.
-George Hill is probably the only player that Pop pampered and even then he refused to play George Hill over Parker when we were getting beat by the Grizzles

Your point is just stupid.

[Jwash_1986]

It's not trusting players if it's your only option to play them dummy...

-Danny Green's emergence came at the expense of Ginobili's injury and lack of depth at SF at the time
-Dejuan Blair's emergence came when he was only Center on the Spurs team not name Matt Bonner
-Beno's emergence came from the ankle injuries Parker always had
-I don't even know why the fuck you mentioned James Anderson, that guy averaged like 2 minutes of playing time max, he shouldn't even be in this discussion
-Kawhi Leonard's emergence came because S-Jax was waived (yeah I said it). You really think if S-Jax was on the team Kawhi would have seen any more than 17-20+ minutes on the floor? I don't think so.
-George Hill is probably the only player that Pop pampered and even then he refused to play George Hill over Parker when we were getting beat by the Grizzles

Your point is just stupid.
I thought Kawhi was part of the reason the shipped RJ off? His emergence made it easy to trade RJ off.

[sexinthatsx]

I thought Kawhi was part of the reason the shipped RJ off? His emergence made it easy to trade RJ off.

Nope. RJ was shipped off because he didn't learn the system and couldn't execute the plays needed, so the Spurs traded RJ's contract to get back Stephen Jackson, who helped a lot more. However, since Stephen Jackson was waived, the SF position became thin, and Kawhi was the only true SF on the team

[Jwash_1986]

Nope. RJ was shipped off because he didn't learn the system and couldn't execute the plays needed, so the Spurs traded RJ's contract to get back Stephen Jackson, who helped a lot more. However, since Stephen Jackson was waived, the SF position became thin, and Kawhi was the only true SF on the team
Kawhi been starting ever since RJ left though? Jackson been coming off bench since he had came over.

[TheGreatYacht]

It's not trusting players if it's your only option to play them dummy...
-Danny Green's emergence came at the expense of Ginobili's injury and lack of depth at SF at the time
-Dejuan Blair's emergence came when he was only Center on the Spurs team not name Matt Bonner
-Beno's emergence came from the ankle injuries Parker always had
-I don't even know why the fuck you mentioned James Anderson, that guy averaged like 2 minutes of playing time max, he shouldn't even be in this discussion
-Kawhi Leonard's emergence came because S-Jax was waived (yeah I said it). You really think if S-Jax was on the team Kawhi would have seen any more than 17-20+ minutes on the floor? I don't think so.
-George Hill is probably the only player that Pop pampered and even then he refused to play George Hill over Parker when we were getting beat by the Grizzles
Your point is just stupid.Dumbass, there are 12 roster spots on the court. Players are inlcuded on the 12 roster available spots because they will probably see some playing time.

Ever since Tim Duncan has been out of his prime which was around 2008/2009, Pop tweaked his system to include more players on the rotation. Pop used to be old school where he would use an old-fashioned/playoff 8 man rotation. The moment Pop implemented his new motion offense where ball movement became the emphasis, that was the moment where Pop began to have more trust on the young guys.

Injuries had nothing to do with Pop trusting the young guns. Pop realized that he can no longer rely just on the Big 3 therefore he began experimenting trying to discover new gems in role players. Pop (became an offensive coach) fell in love with his lab experiments that he decided to use a 9-10 man rotation throughout the regular season.

Pop fell so in love with this new system that he started picking up bad habits such as relying way too much on role players which is a major reason why the Spurs have had playoff failure after playoff failure. Role players can't win you championships on the road or when facing adversity, very rarely does it happen (2004 Pistons). Superstars win you championship when adversity is at its best. Tony Parker getting shut down or dissapearing every playoff year is another reason why we haven't won a championship.

The big reason why the Spurs have been so successful these past two seasons is because of Tim Duncan's resurgence. Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard almost carried us to #5 until Pop with his newly picked up bad habits and Manu fucked it all up.

So yeah, Pop is good at trusting young guys, he don't give a shit about their age. If he notices that they can play, that they can contribute, then they will crack into the rotation. Don't be a moron and try to deny all this. Injuries might have played a part in developing young players but not as much as you're implying.
Pop isn't a hack like those guys, he definetly deserves some respect and appreciation. But he's also let his ego and stubbornness get the best of him and the team. Just hope there are people there to tell him about his fuckups, because he acts like a tenured professor at times, perhaps past his prime.

[Chinook]

Nope. RJ was shipped off because he didn't learn the system and couldn't execute the plays needed, so the Spurs traded RJ's contract to get back Stephen Jackson, who helped a lot more. However, since Stephen Jackson was waived, the SF position became thin, and Kawhi was the only true SF on the team

Did you become a Spurs fan in April? Leonard has been the starting small-forward and playing big minutes since the Jack trade in 2012. A big reason why Jack was so upset is that he wasn't getting a lot of minutes due to Leonard and Green being ahead of him in the wing rotation. Had Jack remained on the team, he would have seen some of Neal's, Green's, Ginobili's and Diaw's minutes in the Finals, but Leonard would have played just as much.

[Chinook]

Dumbass, there are 12 roster spots on the court. Players are inlcuded on the 12 roster available spots because they will probably see some playing time.

Ever since Tim Duncan has been out of his prime which was around 2008/2009, Pop tweaked his system to include more players on the rotation. Pop used to be old school where he would use an old-fashioned/playoff 8 man rotation. The moment Pop implemented his new motion offense where ball movement became the emphasis, that was the moment where Pop began to have more trust on the young guys.

Injuries had nothing to do with Pop trusting the young guns. Pop realized that he can no longer rely just on the Big 3 therefore he began experimenting trying to discover new gems in role players. Pop (became an offensive coach) fell in love with his lab experiments that he decided to use a 9-10 man rotation throughout the regular season.

Pop fell so in love with this new system that he started picking up bad habits such as relying way too much on role players which is a major reason why the Spurs have had playoff failure after playoff failure. Role players can't win you championships on the road or when facing adversity, very rarely does it happen (2004 Pistons). Superstars win you championship when adversity is at its best. Tony Parker getting shut down or dissapearing every playoff year is another reason why we haven't won a championship.

The big reason why the Spurs have been so successful these past two seasons is because of Tim Duncan's resurgence. Tim Duncan and Kawhi Leonard almost carried us to #5 until Pop with his newly picked up bad habits and Manu fucked it all up.

So yeah, Pop is good at trusting young guys, he don't give a shit about their age. If he notices that they can play, that they can contribute, then they will crack into the rotation. Don't be a moron and try to deny all this. Injuries might have played a part in developing young players but not as much as you're implying.

He's actually pretty correct when he explains Pop's mentality toward young players, at least as to how it pertains to games that matter. Pop almost never gives rookies big minutes in the playoffs. Leonard and Neal (and Blair to a small extent) were exceptions. He's the guy who refused to put Hill, Splitter and Green into the games their first playoffs until the series was already lost. Most players in general and young players in particular have what is essentially a red-shirt season in San Antonio. What happened with Joseph isn't all that uncommon, though the players didn't always go to the d-league.

All in all, it's really unlikely Pop would give Thomas any time with the big club this season unless Thomas puts up 15-20 points in garbage time or something. As much as we may like him, he doesn't have any skill that makes him rotation-ready right now. A year in Austin developing his body and game to meet his role will do him wonders.

[sexinthatsx]

He's actually pretty correct when he explains Pop's mentality toward young players, at least as to how it pertains to games that matter. Pop almost never gives rookies big minutes in the playoffs. Leonard and Neal (and Blair to a small extent) were exceptions. He's the guy who refused to put Hill, Splitter and Green into the games their first playoffs until the series was already lost. Most players in general and young players in particular have what is essentially a red-shirt season in San Antonio. What happened with Joseph isn't all that uncommon, though the players didn't always go to the d-league.

All in all, it's really unlikely Pop would give Thomas any time with the big club this season unless Thomas puts up 15-20 points in garbage time or something. As much as we may like him, he doesn't have any skill that makes him rotation-ready right now. A year in Austin developing his body and game to meet his role will do him wonders.

Well that was my whole argument with GreatYacht to begin with. He said Pop puts his trust in young players, which is not in the same as giving them minutes. Trusting a player means putting your player out on the floor when the game or elimination is on the line, and Pop would never be one to trust young players in those situations barring injuries.

And in response to your prior post, yes I do know that Leonard has been the starting SF and taking up a lot of minutes. However, if Jax was on the team and never complained and did what he was supposed to do, do you think Pop would put Jax in the big moments of the game rather than Kawhi Leonard? I think so... hence my point - Pop does not trust young players when the game is on the line, or when the player is the only option at that position.

[sexinthatsx]

Albeit, it wouldn't have been such a stretch to say that Kawhi would've seen playing time at SF while Stephen Jackson played PF.

[TheGreatYacht]

He's actually pretty correct when he explains Pop's mentality toward young players, at least as to how it pertains to games that matter. Pop almost never gives rookies big minutes in the playoffs. Leonard and Neal (and Blair to a small extent) were exceptions. He's the guy who refused to put Hill, Splitter and Green into the games their first playoffs until the series was already lost. Most players in general and young players in particular have what is essentially a red-shirt season in San Antonio. What happened with Joseph isn't all that uncommon, though the players didn't always go to the d-league.
All in all, it's really unlikely Pop would give Thomas any time with the big club this season unless Thomas puts up 15-20 points in garbage time or something. As much as we may like him, he doesn't have any skill that makes him rotation-ready right now. A year in Austin developing his body and game to meet his role will do him wonders.
Well that was my whole argument with GreatYacht to begin with. He said Pop puts his trust in young players, which is not in the same as giving them minutes. Trusting a player means putting your player out on the floor when the game or elimination is on the line, and Pop would never be one to trust young players in those situations barring injuries.
And in response to your prior post, yes I do know that Leonard has been the starting SF and taking up a lot of minutes. However, if Jax was on the team and never complained and did what he was supposed to do, do you think Pop would put Jax in the big moments of the game rather than Kawhi Leonard? I think so... hence my point - Pop does not trust young players when the game is on the line, or when the player is the only option at that position.Chinook I agree with what you're saying. I already know and only a retard would fail to realize that Pop doesn't trust his young players come playoff times.

Shit, Pop kept leaving Manu out there in Game 6 so much that it cost us the title. Same thing happened in Game 7. Manu was playing pretty good but he was bound to commit turnovers. Instead of Pop yanking Manu out in the 4th quarter of Game 7 to prevent him from doing something stupid, Pop leaves him out there. Manu turns the ball over twice I think.

The reason I got into this debate is because this dude sexinthatsx is making it seem like Pop doesn't develop players. I guess I should of specified that Pop is good at developing and trusting his young players during the regular season. Sexinthatsx makes it seem like Pop hates young players and doesn't give them opportunities which is complete BS. This is my original comment :
I actually think that Pop is one of the best coaches at giving the green light to youngsters. Hasn't Pop in the past thrown players into the fire such as Beno Udrih, Dejuan Blair, George Hill, James Anderson, and Kawhi Leonard? As much as I criticize Pop, I admire his ability to coach and trust young players throughout the years.


LMAO @ sexinthatsx saying that my "takes are horrible" just because I'm always shitting on Pop and Manu. Typical Spurs homer. Most of the homers on this website hate me because I dislike Pop and Manu so they'll try to gang up on me. Frankly I don't give a fuck. A lot of them are consumed by their blind homerism that anything that criticizes Pop or Manu is viewed as pure hatred and ignorance. Their blind faith in Pop and Manu is just as ignorant..

[ChumpDumper]

-Kawhi Leonard's emergence came because S-Jax was waived (yeah I said it). You really think if S-Jax was on the team Kawhi would have seen any more than 17-20+ minutes on the floor? I don't think so.Since Leonard was averaging about 34 mpg in the last full month Jack was here, I do think so.

[Chinook]

And in response to your prior post, yes I do know that Leonard has been the starting SF and taking up a lot of minutes. However, if Jax was on the team and never complained and did what he was supposed to do, do you think Pop would put Jax in the big moments of the game rather than Kawhi Leonard? I think so... hence my point - Pop does not trust young players when the game is on the line, or when the player is the only option at that position.

I disagree. Two years, ago, Pop may have benched Leonard for Jack in the playoffs. But I think he was going to live or die by Leonard and Green after they carried the team in the WCSF. Jack would not have drawn Curry's or Thompson's guards, so Kawhi and Danny were going to get the minute they needed. Jack playing well would have given in minutes over Diaw (as you suggested in your other post), Neal or even Ginobili in the latter two games of the Finals. He may have gotten some of Green's minutes in Game 7 but he definitely wasn't going to become a priority unless he showed it during the first three rounds. The way Jack was playing his year, it's doubtful he would've been good enough to play heavy wing minutes.

[ace3g]

http://o-h-i-owe.blogspot.com/2013/07/making-case-for-deshaun-thomas.html

Making a Case For Deshaun Thomas (http://o-h-i-owe.blogspot.com/2013/07/making-case-for-deshaun-thomas.html)

[jyra]

If Thomas ends up going to Europe, I'd love to see him end up with FC Barcelona.
They have a big hole at SF right now with both Pete Mickael and Joe Ingles leaving the club. Their coach is also known to be a defensive guru capable of getting the most out of players on that end of the floor with the team consistently ranking as one of the best defensive teams in the Euroleague/ACB.
They have at least been rumored to be interested in Andrew Goudelock, so you know that they have people at the summer league scouting players.

[sexinthatsx]

LMAO @ sexinthatsx saying that my "takes are horrible" just because I'm always shitting on Pop and Manu. Typical Spurs homer. Most of the homers on this website hate me because I dislike Pop and Manu so they'll try to gang up on me. Frankly I don't give a fuck. A lot of them are consumed by their blind homerism that anything that criticizes Pop or Manu is viewed as pure hatred and ignorance. Their blind faith in Pop and Manu is just as ignorant..

Your takes are horrible, there's a reason why everybody in here thinks you troll like a dumbass and run your mouth the way you do...

[sexinthatsx]

I disagree. Two years, ago, Pop may have benched Leonard for Jack in the playoffs. But I think he was going to live or die by Leonard and Green after they carried the team in the WCSF. Jack would not have drawn Curry's or Thompson's guards, so Kawhi and Danny were going to get the minute they needed. Jack playing well would have given in minutes over Diaw (as you suggested in your other post), Neal or even Ginobili in the latter two games of the Finals. He may have gotten some of Green's minutes in Game 7 but he definitely wasn't going to become a priority unless he showed it during the first three rounds. The way Jack was playing his year, it's doubtful he would've been good enough to play heavy wing minutes.

I actually envisioned Pop using Jax the way Heat used Mike Miller. The guy didn't play at all during the regular season, comes to the finals and hits all his 3's. I know Kawhi can shoot 3's, but given the pressure situations where Jack has been hitting 3's in the past I can definitely see Pop putting Jack on the floor to make those 3's. Like I said though, Kawhi and Jack both playing on the floor at the same time was a possibility, so we never know how it would pan out.

[Bartleby]

Thomas having an awful game today. 1-10 from the field. Ouch!

[ace3g]

bad shooting night, still doing other things well, getting big rebounds, making nice reads with the passing

[loveforthegame]

He doesn't let a bad shooting night affect his game. Still finds other ways to contribute.

[DesignatedT]

Flaws are too noticeable. He can't defend and is way too slow on his feet. Not sure giving him a roster spot is smart.

[SanDiegoSpursFan]

His defense wasn't THAT bad. Pittman's defense was that bad.

[BatManu20]

Eh he was due for a bad game.

[ace3g]

Thread be prepared for "he is useless without shooting" comments

[Hoops Czar]

If Thomas makes the roster, then R.C. has clearly given up.

[TheGreatYacht]

Your takes are horrible, there's a reason why everybody in here thinks you troll like a dumbass and run your mouth the way you do...You're the only dumbass here making invalid points just to try to defend your worthless argument. In regards to me being a troll...
I should have told you this before- but I think over the last couple of days - you have started to see it;

People in here HATE....I mean HATE ...truth...

Nothing will bring out the popsuckers and spurs homers wrath more than - TRUTH.


They absolutely HATE it. They will label you a troll, will try to gang up and hit you from all sides and all the others will appear out of nowhere and have a little hate parade.

If you want to be "accepted"

You must;

A) Never tell the truth or call things exactly what they are - you cannot do this. Truth will get you on the "outside" here.

B) Pop is always right. Every decision is justified- because - 4 rings, hall of fame, etc....

C) Even when you are PROVEN right - it didn't happen and you are still a stupid troll, an idiot, and - it just never happened- and if you try to say - "but it was the truth!---and I was correct!"....just go back and look at (A) above.

D) Titles are for winners....2nd place is what these Spurs homers are satisfied with - don't try to understand - don't try to convince anyone here that the object and the highest hope is a championship - because --- it isn't what is important here. Following Pop and spurs mgmt is more important than actually winning titles. 4 is enough and anything else on top of 4 titles makes you greedy and spoiled and a stupid idiot in here.



If you understand all that - your time here will be a little better. Just lower your standards and be accepted and ....


"2nd place forever!!!!!!!!"Swallow that.

[Baam]

If Thomas makes the roster, then R.C. has clearly given up.

But if he let Baynes, De Colo and Joseph stay on the team he doesn't?

Because Thomas still compare favorably overall despite an horrible game.

[monkeypunk]

Played his way off this years roster today. Only chance was to dominate like Neal and Blair did. Rebounds were a plus but still -9.

[ChumpDumper]

lol sbm has a new e-gang member

[spurraider21]

so are we putting his jersey retirement on hold?

[TheGoldStandard]

Had a bad shooting game but did other things well.. De Colo, well that guy is way too inconsistent.. Channeled a lot of Manu today

[TXstbobcat]

Lets see how he bounces back in tomorrow's game.

[jARS mEsH sEt]

How many TJastal alts are in this topic :lol

[Russ]

Tomorrow may be a big day for Mr. Thomas (and he probably knows it).

[siraulo23]

is tomorrow spurs' last summer league game?

[Darkwaters]

is tomorrow spurs' last summer league game?

Yep. One consolation game and then a lot of free time until training camp.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

i really like thomas. i think he's good enough for a roster spot this year. my only gripe was he didn't make enough noise on the defensive end. but fancy this, the guy sucks on offense and decides to board it up on d. sign that man!

[xellos88330]

3 good games out of 4 isn't bad. Hope he can bounce back.

[SpursDynasty21]

What are the chances that Thomas can make the Spurs roster?

[rick1991]

What are the chances that Thomas can make the Spurs roster?

rather give TMAC a real chance

[admiralsnackbar]

rather give TMAC a real chance

Hells yeah! Let's bring back Havilcek, too!

[tesseractive]

Hells yeah! Let's bring back Havilcek, too!

Clearly the time it's right for us to disinter George Mikan and send him out on the court for us.

[chapnis]

Clearly the time it's right for us to disinter George Mikan and send him out on the court for us.

I hear Naismith is looking for a coaching gig too.

[xmas1997]

Don't think he makes the team, Oden either.

[Darkwaters]

Don't think he makes the team, Oden either.

Agreed. His only chance was to have an amazing summer league. He was doing a great job of it too until the last two games. He probably goes to Europe now and gets relooked next season. Probably a good thing too as he wouldn't have made much of a difference this season.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BPoBph8CMAAShVV.jpg:large

DT1UpNComin (https://twitter.com/DT1UpNComin) DeShaun Thomas 4m (https://twitter.com/DT1UpNComin/status/358600933317423105)
At the airport waiting on my flight back to Columbus be there for a few days it been a while pic.twitter.com/RbqhSh6gmi (http://t.co/RbqhSh6gmi)

[yavozerb]

Agreed. His only chance was to have an amazing summer league. He was doing a great job of it too until the last two games. He probably goes to Europe now and gets relooked next season. Probably a good thing too as he wouldn't have made much of a difference this season.

I wouldnt say it was his only chance but it would have helped alot thats for sure. I would say the odds are 50/50 for ST being on the spurs next season still. Got the rest of the summer and training camp to decide so I do not expect the spurs to decide until then. The spurs have a couple of contracts they could possibly move and still 2 RFA to deal with so I guess we are going to have to wait and see.

[Chinook]

I wouldnt say it was his only chance but it would have helped alot thats for sure. I would say the odds are 50/50 for ST being on the spurs next season still. Got the rest of the summer and training camp to decide so I do not expect the spurs to decide until then. The spurs have a couple of contracts they could possibly move and still 2 RFA to deal with so I guess we are going to have to wait and see.

If Thomas (or any of the second-rounder) goes to training camp, then the option to stash them in Europe next season goes away. The Spurs have to sign him to a contract to bring him to camp, and doing so then cutting him relinquishes his rights.

[Darkwaters]

If Thomas (or any of the second-rounder) goes to training camp, then the option to stash them in Europe next season goes away. The Spurs have to sign him to a contract to bring him to camp, and doing so then cutting him relinquishes his rights.

Bingo

[yavozerb]

If Thomas (or any of the second-rounder) goes to training camp, then the option to stash them in Europe next season goes away. The Spurs have to sign him to a contract to bring him to camp, and doing so then cutting him relinquishes his rights.

Thanks for pointing that out, did not knwo that. Then it all comes down what changes if any happen to the current roster from now till training camp. I will just roll the 50/50 odds over to training camp invite for DT then, cause if he gets a an invite then the odds go up quite a bit on him making the team.

[Chinook]

Thanks for pointing that out, did not knwo that. Then it all comes down what changes if any happen to the current roster from now till training camp. I will just roll the 50/50 odds over to training camp invite for DT then, cause if he gets a an invite then the odds go up quite a bit on him making the team.

It will come down to Thomas. I think the Spurs' preference is to send him to Europe no matter what. If he's okay with that, then he needs to start looking for teams overseas before they fill their rosters. If he's not, the Spurs will sign him for almost certainly at least two seasons on a non-guaranteed contract. If they really like him, they could even give him the three-year deal they have saved up. That would guarantee his roster spot for next season. I actually expect Thomas and the team to decide pretty soon.

[yavozerb]

It will come down to Thomas. I think the Spurs' preference is to send him to Europe no matter what. If he's okay with that, then he needs to start looking for teams overseas before they fill their rosters. If he's not, the Spurs will sign him for almost certainly at least two seasons on a non-guaranteed contract. If they really like him, they could even give him the three-year deal they have saved up. That would guarantee his roster spot for next season. I actually expect Thomas and the team to decide pretty soon.

Well, if thats the case I think DT and his agent have all the momentum in negotiations. I am 100% that DT can get signed for at least the minumum by an NBA team which probably would equal his overseas salary as well. If I am DT I simply say I am staying and plan on playing in the NBA next season so either sign me up or cut me loose. No way are the spurs going to sign another player as good as DT for the amount of $ his salary will be for the next 2-3 seasons.

[Chinook]

Well, if thats the case I think DT and his agent have all the momentum in negotiations. I am 100% that DT can get signed for at least the minumum by an NBA team which probably would equal his overseas salary as well. If I am DT I simply say I am staying and plan on playing in the NBA next season so either sign me up or cut me loose. No way are the spurs going to sign another player as good as DT for the amount of $ his salary will be for the next 2-3 seasons.

It depends on whether or not he agreed to go to Europe before the Spurs drafted him. If he did, then him trying to back out now probably wouldn't go over well with the Spurs' front office. If he didn't, the Spurs are probably prepared to either step up with the three-year deal or to lose his rights.

I think Thomas is overrated. He's a good scorer, but he's not a knock-down shooter. That means a lot to a team like the Spurs who don't rely on 12th men creating their own shots. The fact that he's bad defensively is a huge problem. It's one thing to be a perimeter player and be bad on defense. But big men honestly can't afford it. I can see Thomas being the anti-Bonner in the sense that fans love him but he routinely leads his teams in negative plus-minus. I think the Spurs like him, but they won't be held hostage by him. They've shown the ability to get really good production out of minimum contracts. I think they can replace Thomas a lot more easily than people realize.

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

You're the only dumbass here making invalid points just to try to defend your worthless argument. In regards to me being a troll...Swallow that.
A poster online said something that's similar to your opinion... It must be true... Lol

"I'm nawt a trowl buck Diz d00d sex I'm nawt"

[yavozerb]

It depends on whether or not he agreed to go to Europe before the Spurs drafted him. If he did, then him trying to back out now probably wouldn't go over well with the Spurs' front office. If he didn't, the Spurs are probably prepared to either step up with the three-year deal or to lose his rights.

I think Thomas is overrated. He's a good scorer, but he's not a knock-down shooter. That means a lot to a team like the Spurs who don't rely on 12th men creating their own shots. The fact that he's bad defensively is a huge problem. It's one thing to be a perimeter player and be bad on defense. But big men honestly can't afford it. I can see Thomas being the anti-Bonner in the sense that fans love him but he routinely leads his teams in negative plus-minus. I think the Spurs like him, but they won't be held hostage by him. They've shown the ability to get really good production out of minimum contracts. I think they can replace Thomas a lot more easily than people realize.

I agree with him probably being overrated and I have probably contributed to that here as well. With that said I cannot see the spurs letting him walk at age 21 and making the minimum without seeing what he possibly looks like in 2-3 seasons. The fact is he looked pretty damn good in 2 games and average in the reamaining 2. There is enough fascination with this guy that says the risk of taking up a roster spot is well worth the amount of $ invested in him for what could be a very good finished product. Its players like this that Austin should be the primary grooming tool fo and I think players like Joseph proves that it works.

[TXstbobcat]

What's probably best for the spurs at this point is for Thomas to play 1 or 2 years developing in Europe. Hopefully he can be a building block for the future.

[Bruno]

Thomas didn't get drafted with the promise he would agreed to be stashed overseas.

http://buckeyextra.dispatch.com/content/blogs/hoops-and-scoops/2013/07/07-02-13-spurs-did-not-request-thomas-play-in-europe.html


Deshaun Thomas’ agent, J.R. Hensley, returned my calls today and said that the San Antonio Spurs, before drafting Thomas last week, did not seek nor get a guarantee from him that he would spend his rookie season playing in Europe.

“It was not put like that,” Hensley said. “He is not guaranteed a roster spot, but he’ll have an opportunity, I think, to make the roster. If that’s not viable at some point, we’ll explore our options with them.”

[TXstbobcat]

Thomas didn't get drafted with the promise he would agreed to be stashed overseas.

http://buckeyextra.dispatch.com/content/blogs/hoops-and-scoops/2013/07/07-02-13-spurs-did-not-request-thomas-play-in-europe.html

Would it be in his best interest at this point to agree to go to Europe or to try force the spurs to sign him and bring him to training camp?

[yavozerb]

Would it be in his best interest at this point to agree to go to Europe or to try force the spurs to sign him and bring him to training camp?

For the tenth time, DT or his agent has never talked about going the Euro route, EVER. Read just todays post in this thread and it should help explain possiblities for the DT and the spurs.

[Bruno]

Would it be in his best interest at this point to agree to go to Europe or to try force the spurs to sign him and bring him to training camp?

IMO, his best interest is to sign directly with Spurs even if they are trying to convince him to go overseas. It would be the smarter career move to do.

[TXstbobcat]

For the tenth time, DT or his agent has never talked about going the Euro route, EVER. Read just todays post in this thread and it should help explain possiblities for the DT and the spurs.

i didn't as what his possibilities were. I asked Bruno's opinion about the options.

[SpursSerb]

Rumours about Thomas and Partizan,his agent denied it.Best option for him if he plans to play in Europe.Partizan needs a starting sf.I believe he would explode in euroleague.

[yavozerb]

Rumours about Thomas and Partizan,his agent denied it.Best option for him if he plans to play in Europe.Partizan needs a starting sf.I believe he would explode in euroleague.

Do you have a link to any of these rumors?

[SpursSerb]

Do you have a link to any of these rumors?

http://hotsport.rs/2013/07/21/tomas-menja-kapitena-lucica/

But as i said his agent denied it quickly.

[yavozerb]

http://hotsport.rs/2013/07/21/tomas-menja-kapitena-lucica/

But as i said his agent denied it quickly.

I still have my doubts about DT going to Europe but I guess Partizan is as good a team as any if he goes. Thx

[DesignatedT]

I don't see Thomas being able to help much this season so I hope the Spurs don't use a roster spot on him. JMO.

[Vic Petro]

Rumours about Thomas and Partizan,his agent denied it.Best option for him if he plans to play in Europe.Partizan needs a starting sf.I believe he would explode in euroleague.

This would not surprise me given his specific skill set. If he can find a big role on a decent team it might be better for his overall growth as a player. Endearing himself to SA by helping them out this way wouldn't hurt either.

Plus - and I don't know whether Deshaun values this sort of thing or not - from a life experience perspective it seems like a no brainer if that sort of option were available.

[yavozerb]

I don't see Thomas being able to help much this season so I hope the Spurs don't use a roster spot on him. JMO.

Well, if the spurs are depending on the 14th and 15th roster spot to help them win a championship then are already screwed anyways. I have always liked those spots for younger D league players.

[SpursSerb]

How many players Spurs drafted and then went in Europe to play,ever came back to play for the Spurs?

[yavozerb]

How many players Spurs drafted and then went in Europe to play,ever came back to play for the Spurs?

None that I can recall. It seems to be a one way ticket currently but this could change with the end nearing of the big 3.

[DesignatedT]

How many players Spurs drafted and then went in Europe to play,ever came back to play for the Spurs?

They are usually all very low draft picks. It's not because they went to Europe that they don't come back. It's because they aren't very good players.

[Darkwaters]

How many players Spurs drafted and then went in Europe to play,ever came back to play for the Spurs?

Tiago Splitter (drafted 2007, 28th, came over 2010)
Manu Ginobili (drafted 1999, 57th, came over 2003)
Nando De Colo (drafted 2009, 53rd, came over 2012)
Ian Mahinmi (drafted 2005, 28th, came over 2007)

James Gist (drafted 2008, 57th, came over 2010 - cut in training camp)

Robertas Javtokas (drafted 2001, 55th, attempted to come over many years later but a deal could not be agreed upon financially)

[Vic Petro]

Other than Gist I can't think of an American college player drafted by the Spurs who then went to play in Europe while the team maintained his rights.

[DesignatedT]

There all drafted in the 50's that's why.

[SpursSerb]

Tiago Splitter (drafted 2007, 28th, came over 2010)
Manu Ginobili (drafted 1999, 57th, came over 2003)
Nando De Colo (drafted 2009, 53rd, came over 2012)
Ian Mahinmi (drafted 2005, 28th, came over 2007)


All those guys already played in europe when they were drafted.Different situation.

[CaptainLate]

Which is better: D League or Europe?

[Chinook]

Other than Gist I can't think of an American college player drafted by the Spurs who then went to play in Europe while the team maintained his rights.

Denmon.

[Chinook]

Which is better: D League or Europe?

There are some European leagues that are worse, but most of the ones anyone cares about are much better.

[Kingsly Alexander]

Denmon.

Hairston?

[Kingsly Alexander]

There are some European leagues that are worse, but most of the ones anyone cares about are much better.

europe for sure if their playing in the EuroLeague

[Vic Petro]

Denmon.

Yes Denmon :toast

Too early to say that Denmon will never play for the Spurs though it certainly looks unlikely.

[Darkwaters]

All those guys already played in europe when they were drafted.Different situation.

No kidding.

But your original post though wasn't exactly a legible sentence. So I just posted all of them that I could find.

[CaptainLate]

There are some European leagues that are worse, but most of the ones anyone cares about are much better.

Thank you.

[Chinook]

Hairston?

Nah. He went to Europe after the Spurs lost his rights by cutting him.

[Kingsly Alexander]

Speaking of Gist though, he's one that's done pretty well, in Europe consistently catching on to players in the Euroleague

I'd like to see him in a Spurs training camp nxt yr


Hairston had a major drop off for Milano last yr, as far as production, but he's signed up for another yr, so It'll be interesting to see how he does this yr among the adversity

[Chinook]

Speaking of Gist though, he's one that's done pretty well, in Europe consistently catching on to players in the Euroleague

I'd like to see him in a Spurs training camp nxt yr


Hairston had a major drop off for Milano last yr, as far as production, but he's signed up for another yr, so It'll be interesting to see how he does this yr among the adversity

The Spurs already lost Gist's rights. They can bring him in, but so can other teams. The fact that nobody's tried suggests he's not thought of very highly around the league.

[Tyrone Jenkins]

I guess I don't really understand the thought process some people have about basketball players in college, in the D league, in Europe, etc.

It doesn't really matter when a player gets noticed, its IF he gets noticed. If he's good enough to crack a 15 player roster, what difference does it make where his origination point.

The thread is about DeShaun Thomas - no? If so, then let's discuss HIS ability to crack the Spurs 15.

I think it's actually pretty good. He's got some definite limitations but he seems to be extremely willing to be a scorer. Let's say it takes him 3 years to develop into a bona-fide roster player. I'm cool with that - especially coming from a late 2nd round pick.

[SpursSerb]

So if stays,how big of a contract would the Spurs give him?

[Poolboy5623]

So if stays,how big of a contract would the Spurs give him?

20-40$/hr seems fair? What does the 58th pick usually make?

[Kingsly Alexander]

The Spurs already lost Gist's rights. They can bring him in, but so can other teams. The fact that nobody's tried suggests he's not thought of very highly around the league.

They may have lost his rights but I'd think our FO being the best, they keep their sources closest to their hips. Surely, he's progressed since we last saw him in training camp 3 yrs ago.

[Kingsly Alexander]

I guess I don't really understand the thought process some people have about basketball players in college, in the D league, in Europe, etc.

It doesn't really matter when a player gets noticed, its IF he gets noticed. If he's good enough to crack a 15 player roster, what difference does it make where his origination point.

The thread is about DeShaun Thomas - no? If so, then let's discuss HIS ability to crack the Spurs 15.

I think it's actually pretty good. He's got some definite limitations but he seems to be extremely willing to be a scorer. Let's say it takes him 3 years to develop into a bona-fide roster player. I'm cool with that - especially coming from a late 2nd round pick.

So I'd suggest signing him now? The same rhetoric gets tossed around inevitably. Do we sign him or send him to Europe if he's willing. Only sign him if someone else, via trade or sign, doesn't pop up.

we'll really only know until training camp and pre-season starts and how we see him in the pros

[Tyrone Jenkins]

So I'd suggest signing him now? The same rhetoric gets tossed around inevitably. Do we sign him or send him to Europe if he's willing. Only sign him if someone else, via trade or sign, doesn't pop up.

we'll really only know until training camp and pre-season starts and how we see him in the pros

That is a decision that none of us posters will probably ever truly know what is correct because it's the combination of conversations. Conversations that DT will have w/ the FO, his agent, his family/advisors, etc. Who knows what RC and Co want to do w/ this kid? Who knows who will get injured next year and necessitate him playing significant minutes to help out.

Speculation about where he goes, what his salary will be, etc. is funny to me...

[maverick1948]

Needing a Backup SF, do we send Thomas to Europe or DLeague? Cory Joseph is a good indication of what the Spurs could do with Thomas. Sign him to the 15th roster spot and send him to Austin to hone his skills on defense. I am sure that the Spurs have him spending time in SA with the coaching staff before training camp. Chip can work on his shot from 3 pt land. Much of what the Spurs do with him will be decided before Oct training camp starts. I dont see them sending him to Europe to be sat on a bench the way Ryan Richards has been done. The staff at Austin use much of the Spurs system, so why not send him there instead of Europe? His salary would be somewhere around .5 mill for 1st year and about .8+/- mill. In order to do anything we have to open up a slot for DT or lose him. If he forces the issue with the Spurs, he will be released and have no where to go. Sticking with the Spurs, he can go to Europe and play 1 or 2 years or the DLeague for a year and maybe get a contract from someone or be traded to another team.

[Darkwaters]

Needing a Backup SF, do we send Thomas to Europe or DLeague? Cory Joseph is a good indication of what the Spurs could do with Thomas.

To be fair, Thomas' journey is very different (and very much harder) than Joseph's. Cory just needed more reps and time to gain confidence and work on his game. Thomas has to learn to play an entirely new position. We're absolutely talking about apples and oranges here.