Wizards interested in Blair, looking at a S&T.

[coyotes_geek]

This needs to happen already. I hope RC isn't overvaluing Blair too much in these trade talks. I know in the past he wanted a 1st in exchange (from MIA & GSW iirc), and balked at a trade when he couldn't get one. Three observations:

(1) The fact nothing has happened yet may mean the Spurs are waiting to see what happens with Neal, and assessing whether they will need to package any spare parts like Mills or Nando in a trade involving him.
(2) If the Spurs intend to sign Neal regardless, the fact that Bonner + Blair for Ariza hasn't happened yet is proof positive that Bonner is in the Spurs plans next year.
(3) Also if the Spurs intend to sign Neal regardless, the fact that Blair + Mills + Nando for Ariza hasn't happened yet suggest the Spurs aren't ready to give up on Nando.

Maybe it's proof positive that the Wizards don't want to give up Ariza for spare parts. They've got a say in this too.

[CGD]

Maybe it's proof positive that the Wizards don't want to give up Ariza for spare parts. They've got a say in this too.

Sure, but if that's true really the Wiz are saying they dont want to give up a 7M contract, not that they dont want to give up Ariza himself, a 3rd string SF given the current make up of their roster. A Bonner/Blair deal at least lets them keep 4M of that expiring deal, while getting an asset they value in return.

[DesignatedT]

It's proof that we will never know what's actually happening.

[cd98]

This rumor has been out there for a week or so. The fact that no Wizard players are ever mentioned as possible trade chips makes me wonder how close these talks really are.

Also, and unrelated to the Blair acquisition, aren't we all in agreement that Neal is better than Mills and De Colo. I know he wasn't a great back up point guard, but I'm assuming most of those minutes go to Joseph. That being the case, not sure why we would let Neal sign with someone else and keep Mills and/or De Colo. Seems to me that Neal has more value for playing back, up back up point guard and back up, back up shooting guard. I guess this all depends on what exactly he is asking for to return. My guess is that number is going down given that it appears no one is really talking about acquiring him.

[benefactor]

Hoop Czar is the perfect example of something that looks and sounds like a basketball take, but is really a bunch of fucking nonsense. Kinda like taking shit and putting it in a Hersheys chocolate bar mold.

[yavozerb]

It's proof that we will never know what's actually happening.

Its taken 18 pages for someone to actually say something here that makes sense..:lol

[coyotes_geek]

Sure, but if that's true really the Wiz are saying they dont want to give up a 7M contract, not that they dont want to give up Ariza himself, a 3rd string SF given the current make up of their roster. A Bonner/Blair deal at least lets them keep 4M of that expiring deal, while getting an asset they value in return.

Actually it would just be the Wiz saying that they don't think Ariza for Bonner/Blair is an equitable trade for them, which it's not.

Besides, Washington already has 14 players under contract for next season. They need to be looking for trades where they can package Ariza with some other younger players and trade up in quality, not looking to take quality and trade down for multiple players.

[coyotes_geek]

Its taken 18 pages for someone to actually say something which here that makes sense..:lol

Offseason. Gotta talk about something. :)

[Hoops Czar]

Actually it would just be the Wiz saying that they don't think Ariza for Bonner/Blair is an equitable trade for them, which it's not.


Bingo! I wonder if offering up Diaw in place of Bonner would actually move Washington closer to deal. Though, I'm no sure the Spurs could actually lose Diaw given their current big situation and the versatility Boris brings to the table.

[r0drig0lac]

Its taken 18 pages for someone to actually say something here that makes sense..:lol
word

[Darkwaters]

^ nando/blair PNR = :wow.......................

:lol Had to switch users really quickly so you could comment on your own comment?

[slick'81]

Dnt think spurs are gonna want anything wiz are offering

[TheGreatYacht]

This needs to happen already. I hope RC isn't overvaluing Blair too much in these trade talks. I know in the past he wanted a 1st in exchange (from MIA & GSW iirc), and balked at a trade when he couldn't get one. Three observations:

(1) The fact nothing has happened yet may mean the Spurs are waiting to see what happens with Neal, and assessing whether they will need to package any spare parts like Mills or Nando in a trade involving him.
(2) If the Spurs intend to sign Neal regardless, the fact that Bonner + Blair for Ariza hasn't happened yet is proof positive that Bonner is in the Spurs plans next year.
(3) Also if the Spurs intend to sign Neal regardless, the fact that Blair + Mills + Nando for Ariza hasn't happened yet suggest the Spurs aren't ready to give up on Nando.

Bingo! I wonder if offering up Diaw in place of Bonner would actually move Washington closer to deal. Though, I'm no sure the Spurs could actually lose Diaw given their current big situation and the versatility Boris brings to the table.https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1003134_344259862373958_1929332032_n.jpg

[Hoops Czar]

I know in the past he wanted a 1st in exchange (from MIA & GSW iirc), and balked at a trade when he couldn't get one.

They did which makes it all the more astounding that some posters feel the Spurs would be willing to package one of their first rounders with Blair for an under performing backup SF.

[Chinook]

They did which makes it all the more astounding that some posters feel the Spurs would be willing to package one of their first rounders with Blair for an under performing backup SF.

No one thinks that. They just think that the Spurs have assets to pull off a trade. The majority of trades in the NBA involve expiring contracts and picks. So even if Blair has low value, the Spurs could acquire Ariza for him Bonner and a first. This is because Bonner and a first would likely be enough by itself if salaries matched. Blair would just be gravy.

[Chinook]

They did which makes it all the more astounding that some posters feel the Spurs would be willing to package one of their first rounders with Blair for an under performing backup SF.

I'll quote this post instead of the long one to answer your other question. First, the Spurs have three players in Europe who will probably come over within the next three years in Jean-Charles, Bertans and Hanga. They're not blue-chip prospects by any means, but with more seasoning, they'll provide as much return as late first-rounders usually do. If you expect the Spurs to fall off this year and miss the playoffs, any pick they give would be protected in all likelihood, so they'd get to keep it in that event.

More importantly, the Spurs aren't blowing up their team until at least Parker retires. They'll most likely try to build around Parker, Leonard and Splitter, with players like Green and Diaw (and maybe Pendergraph and Belinelli/Neal) getting re-upped. They'll still be a playoff team, and they'd have a ton of cap space to acquire players, whether through free agency or trades. Players in their mid-20s who've been professionals overseas for a view seasons will probably be more attractive to them than rookies straight out of college anyway.

[Hoops Czar]

No one thinks that. They just think that the Spurs have assets to pull off a trade. The majority of trades in the NBA involve expiring contracts and picks. So even if Blair has low value, the Spurs could acquire Ariza for him Bonner and a first. This is because Bonner and a first would likely be enough by itself if salaries matched. Blair would just be gravy.

I kinda agree with this. However, having assets and having assets teams want are two different things. I think the only way Bonner could be moved is by coupling him with a first rounder but I'm not sure the Spurs are willing to go that far. I guess we'll see how badly the Wizards want Blair and how far they're willing to go to get him. I'm hoping it doesn't come down to a first though.

[Chinook]

I kinda agree with this. However, having assets and having assets teams want are two different things. I think the only way Bonner could be moved is by coupling him with a first rounder but I'm not sure the Spurs are willing to go that far. I guess we'll see how badly the Wizards want Blair and how far they're willing to go to get him. I'm hoping it doesn't come down to a first though.

Bonner's not that bad. We make fun of him a lot on here, but he's actually worth his contract when looking at the stats. He's definitely good enough to not hurt his stock created by his expiring contract. The biggest issue with trading him (besides Pop loving him) is that the Spurs don't want to take back a lot of long-term salary themselves. So while the team could easily trade him for a failed mid-salary player on a long-term deal like Beasley, they wouldn't want to burden themselves in the long term.

When thinking about it in the context of Blair, it's pretty much the same thing. To acquire him, the Wizards will have to give up some expiring salary. The total will probably be about $3-4 Million. They can give it up by trading one player (Vesely), multiple players (Singleton and Booker) or by trading away a player as well as taking back another (Bonner for Ariza). Financially, all three of the options have the same impact on their long-term future, since Blair's long-term salary is what they're taking on regardless. It's just a matter of what makes the most sense for them to take back from a personnel standpoint. I'm sure they'd prefer trading Vesely. They may even prefer moving Singleton and Booker (although Booker himself could work). But when looking at their small-forwards and two-guards, they really can justify keeping Ariza that much. If they want Blair, they shouldn't waste their chance to get him.

[CGD]

Actually it would just be the Wiz saying that they don't think Ariza for Bonner/Blair is an equitable trade for them, which it's not.

Besides, Washington already has 14 players under contract for next season. They need to be looking for trades where they can package Ariza with some other younger players and trade up in quality, not looking to take quality and trade down for multiple players.

We can disagree on how valuable Ariza is to the Wizards, especially as a 3rd string SF. No big thing. Personally, I just dont think it's really a trade down for the Wiz, especially if they've indicated an interest in Blair and they can conserve 4M of the 7M of the Ariza expiring deal.

[CGD]

They did which makes it all the more astounding that some posters feel the Spurs would be willing to package one of their first rounders with Blair for an under performing backup SF.

Yeah, I'm not sure why the Spurs would send THEIR 1st in a deal with the Wiz for a backup player.

[cd98]

This whole deal strikes me as sort of the same thing as trying to get Kirilenko from Minnesota. Blair probably wants to get signed, and Washington probably wants to sign him, but they have to do it via sign and trade. The hold up is the Spurs don't really have much interest in what the Wizards have. I wouldn't deal a first round pick for any of the small forwards on the roster, if I were the Spurs. If we are giving up a first round pick, it better be for more than Ariza. But because the Spurs aren't interested in giving up more than Blair, Bonner, Mills, and/or De Colo, there aren't many players that the Wizards have on their roster that they would want to trade for that accumulation of end of the bench talent. And those that the Wizards would give up are basically players we don't want or need.

I'm guessing there is no trade here. Tough situation for Blair, who is searching for a home, and is going to have a hard time finding one that will get him more than a minimum contract.

[elemento]

In the end, Blair signs a 2-year contract with a PO in the 2nd year for the min with Washington and the Spurs stand pat per usual.

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Ariza is intriguing, but I'd also take Seraphin - kid can play, just needs some proper guidance.

[Budkin]

Expecting to see the "Bonner signs 3 year extension" thread any day now.

[TheGoldStandard]

Expecting to see the "Bonner signs 3 year extension" thread any day now.

With a pay raise.

[xmas1997]

I guess we are going to go 20 pages on another nowhere thread.

[playblair]

I guess we are going to go 20 pages on another nowhere thread.

blair deserves a 50+ page thread ............................ when blair leaves spurs fans will be devastated on an robinson/rose/elliott/hill level....................

[xmas1997]

blair deserves a 50+ page thread ............................ when blair leaves spurs fans will be devastated on an robinson/rose/elliott/hill level....................


You can't be serious. You should have used the blue font for satire or sarcasm.

[TheGoldStandard]

http://i43.tinypic.com/25fkgzq.png

[Baam]

http://distilleryimage10.ak.instagram.com/1a401ceaef7511e2800922000a9e5110_7.jpg

The Dunking Ninja and Bertans probably talking about teaming up on the Spurs.

[exstatic]

I guess we are going to go 20 pages on another nowhere thread.

You just contributed to that. :lol

[ace3g]

Wizards Putting Challenge To Vesely, Singleton (http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2013/07/17/wizards-putting-challenge-to-vesely-singleton/)http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2013/07/17/wizards-putting-challenge-to-vesely-singleton/?cid=nba_12_twitter_L

[Bruno]

I wouldn't be against Singleton or Vesely but the only realistic target that would make a difference for Spurs is Ariza. If I was RC I would say it's Ariza or no S&T.

Saying that, the rumor started 5 days ago so it's likely that this story is over. Spurs and Wizards just haven't been able to find a deal that pleased both teams.

[DapDaGenius]

:lol Had to switch users really quickly so you could comment on your own comment?

:lmao

[ace3g]

I wouldn't be against Singleton or Vesely but the only realistic target that would make a difference for Spurs is Ariza. If I was RC I would say it's Ariza or no S&T.

Saying that, the rumor started 5 days ago so it's likely that this story is over. Spurs and Wizards just haven't been able to find a deal that pleased both teams.

Agree, although I mentioned earlier with summer league going, teams are evaluating talent; in Wizards case, possibly looking at whether Singleton and Vesely have developed enough to trade Ariza.

[Chinook]

Agree, although I mentioned earlier with summer league going, teams are evaluating talent; in Wizards case, possibly looking at whether Singleton and Vesely have developed enough to trade Ariza.

Or whether one of them has developed enough to play the four instead of Blair.

I haven't heard of any trades involving young players during this summer league. It's not just the Spurs who have been relatively inactive.

[Sean Cagney]

Well this thread can now follow the others to the second page because nothing came out of this so called S&T. Infact it was probably dead that day.

[TheGreatYacht]

Well this thread can now follow the others to the second page because nothing came out of this so called S&T. Infact it was probably dead that day.
I wouldn't be against Singleton or Vesely but the only realistic target that would make a difference for Spurs is Ariza. If I was RC I would say it's Ariza or no S&T.

Saying that, the rumor started 5 days ago so it's likely that this story is over. Spurs and Wizards just haven't been able to find a deal that pleased both teams.Who knows if both team even started negotiations. Maybe the Spurs were not interested in Ariza without giving up Matt Bonner. Nobody understands how the Spurs FO works since they pretty much do everything under the radar. Most of the trade rumors or speculations when it come to the Spurs turn out to be a failure. Nothing ever gets accomplished. For the trades that have occurred, Spurs fans were not even aware of the talks.

[Sean Cagney]

Who knows if both team even started negotiations. Maybe the Spurs were not interested in Ariza without giving up Matt Bonner. Nobody understands how the Spurs FO works since they pretty much do everything under the radar. Most of the trade rumors or speculations when it come to the Spurs turn out to be a failure. Nothing ever gets accomplished. For the trades that have occurred, Spurs fans were not even aware of the talks.
True, which is why when I hear interested in or a possible trade in the works I just say blah and sit back and don't get too excited. This is probably another case of that.

[coyotes_geek]

I'm pretty sure this is how it went down.

Ernie Grunfeld: Hey RC, we like DeJuan Blair. Any interest in S&T'ing him to us?

RC: Sure. What did you have in mind?

EG: How about Booker?

RC: :lmao

EG: Singleton?

RC: :lmao

EG: Okay, what did you have in mind?

RC: How about a package with Bonner for Ariza?

EG: :lmao

RC/EG simulatneously: TTYL

[apalisoc_9]

I'm pretty sure this is how it went down.

Ernie Grunfeld: Hey RC, we like DeJuan Blair. Any interest in S&T'ing him to us?

RC: Sure. What did you have in mind?

EG: How about Booker?

RC: :lmao

EG: Singleton?

RC: :lmao

EG: Okay, what did you have in mind?

RC: How about a package with Bonner for Ariza?

EG: :lmao

RC/EG simulatneously: TTYL

:lol

[kobyz]

we can make better than Ariza using Blair:
http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=op462ns

[DapDaGenius]

we can make better than Ariza using Blair:
http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=op462ns

This trade works out better:

http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=kzg5xab

.................................................. ...............................................
.................................................. ..................................
.................................................. ...............
.................................................. ......
...............................................
........................................
.................................
..................................
.........................
....................
.
....................
.
.
.................................................. .......................dat shit broke

[coyotes_geek]

we can make better than Ariza using Blair:
http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=op462ns

The Spurs wouldn't be getting nearly enough back for Blair, Bonner, Mills & Decolo. This is much more reasonable.

http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=qyf9m7x

[kobyz]

The Spurs wouldn't be getting nearly enough back for Blair, Bonner, Mills & Decolo. This is much more reasonable.

http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=qyf9m7x

ok, so add 2 first round picks for Toronto and it seal the deal, they lookin to get rid of Gay for somthing...

[ohmwrecker]

I think the trade machine is broken.

[monkeypunk]

I think the trade machine is broken.

It should be after coyotes_geek's trade, lol...

[jimbo]

Might as well get a backup Big 3 and some eye candy for some players on the team tbh

http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=pbelols

[fleggy2k2]

Might as well get a backup Big 3 and some eye candy for some players on the team tbh

http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=pbelols

do it RC :tu

[playblair]

show some respect .............. blair deserves it...................

357944982461612032

[DapDaGenius]

I think the trade machine is broken.

Yeah it is. EVERY trade works. Look at the trade I posted a few posts above, I gave away bonner and blair, and we got like 10 people in return. :lol

[Big P]

show some respect .............. blair deserves it...................

357944982461612032


If blair worked on his game half as much as his tweets, he'd probably still be on the team.

[ohmwrecker]

Yeah it is. EVERY trade works. Look at the trade I posted a few posts above, I gave away bonner and blair, and we got like 10 people in return. :lol

Um . . . yeah. I got it.

[DapDaGenius]

Um . . . yeah. I got it.

ok then....

[unforeseen]

Soon to be 20 pages of nothing.

[benefactor]

358076509921087488

:lol Blair...Miami doesn't want your ring chasing ass. Its gonna be hilarious when he winds up in Washington.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

bonner and blair for ariza. then sign pittman for cheap. infuses the spurs roster with a hearty dose of laker/heat champion mentality. beefs big depth, and defense, beyond belief. while maintaining floor stretching range pretty well.

lots of injury insurance for timmy. and mental collapse insurance for tiago. a quality combo swing/3 and d mentor for kawhi. fat suckage insurance for a diaw at bench 3 experiment.

[jyra]

358275198052605952

[playblair]

358076509921087488

:lol Blair...Miami doesn't want your ring chasing ass. Its gonna be hilarious when he winds up in Washington.

hater................... hes in mia training ............... he wouldnt be ring chasing................ blair lead spurs to 2 #1 seeds................ blair being benched = spurs 2010/2011 playoff failures ..................................


358292371647102977

[Universe]

show some respect .............. blair deserves it...................

357944982461612032
Nothing funnier then when NBA players tweet stuff like this. He left college early and had plenty of chances on the basketball court. The real underdog would be Joe Blow from McDonald's getting a chance in the NBA.

[cd98]

He's the best free agent big left on the market b/c all the other ones have been signed to a deal.

[Bruno]

If Blair can't find a team willing to give him $3M per year or so, his best option would to sign an one year vet min contract in a team where he could showcase his skills before trying again to get a big contract next summer. Wizards would be a good place for Blair to get playing time and put some stats.

[CGD]

358275198052605952

So two of the three parties for a S&T are on board. Come on Spurs.
RC better not be trying to get an unreasonably high draft pick for Blair again.

[Kindergarten Cop]

So two of the three parties for a S&T are on board. Come on Spurs.
RC better not be trying to get an unreasonably high draft pick for Blair again.

I think the biggest issue is that the Spurs would have to take back salary, considering that Washington is so close to the luxury threshold. They can only offer him a minimum deal otherwise. Obviously the Spurs do not plan on bringing Blair back, so why would they take back a player that they don't want just to appease Blair/Washington? I'd rather them just let Blair walk if they feel that there are better options available compared to what the Wizards are offering.

[slick'81]

Wonder if teams r still talkig deal ?!

[chrhawk]

Ever wonder if playblair is really just the real DeJuan trolling Spurstalk?

[dbestpro]

Ever wonder if playblair is really just the real DeJuan trolling Spurstalk?

I think its really Bonner. Its his way of misdirecting the hate.

[xmas1997]

Ever wonder if playblair is really just the real DeJuan trolling Spurstalk?

Oddly enough, I had that thought too except I think the real Blair is a lot more intelligent grammer wise.But I'm glad I'm not the only one who had that thought.
IMHO none of the Spurs come here, because they would have to be gluttons for punishment if they did.

[xmas1997]

Wonder if teams r still talkig deal ?!


Doubt it, it's been way too long.

[spursnatic]

FO is fucking retarted to not try and land Ariza for a Bonner Blair combo..Guess they think Bonner is too great of a Player to let go?..

[Budkin]

Can he just sign with the Wizards outright?

[xmas1997]

Geeez, 20 pages, and all over a simple rumor that was probably finalized an hour after they inquired!

[Hoops Czar]

FO is fucking retarted to not try and land Ariza for a Bonner Blair combo..Guess they think Bonner is too great of a Player to let go?..
Has it ever dawned on you that maybe the Wizards don't want Bonner? The FO is retarded for other reason.

[raybies]

Has it ever dawned on you that maybe the Wizards don't want Bonner? The FO is retarded for other reason.
Was watching summer league, when One of the guys doing the broadcast said Wall wanted a stretch 4 to open lanes up for him. If any One else heard this pls confirm. But it might just be not enough for bonner If what we all suspect is true. Pop loves bonner.

Also Thomas play might just be shaking things up. I expect us to sign him to a deal If he responds with a big game. Him and oden are the x factors to whether our off season is done or not. If one or the other are signed than a trade would seemingly be forthcoming.

[Dverde]

Spurs may have agreed to a S&T already with Wiz. I think right now Blair is trying to decide where he wants to play. I would pick the heat over the wiz if I was him. Better chance of ring and playing time. Not sure if Miami will tender him a contract.

[Hoops Czar]

Was watching summer league, when One of the guys doing the broadcast said Wall wanted a stretch 4 to open lanes up for him. If any One else heard this pls confirm. But it might just be not enough for bonner If what we all suspect is true. Pop loves bonner.

Also Thomas play might just be shaking things up. I expect us to sign him to a deal If he responds with a big game. Him and oden are the x factors to whether our off season is done or not. If one or the other are signed than a trade would seemingly be forthcoming.

Jason Collins is a big. Therefore, any team looking for a big should be all over Jason Collins, right???? Washington would like a stretch four, but like any other team in search for a S-4, They probably don't see Bonner as the answer.

Its really unfortunate about R.C. though. It's a shame he came into the offseason unprepared. He took a chance on two players that he knew nothing about. Pendergragh wasn't even good enough to crack Indiana's top four bigs but, upon an assistant's advice, he signed him. This is the type of move lottery teams make, not one's with championship aspirations. Pendergragh should fill Blair's shoes nicely stockpiling his garbage time minute resume. Belinelli wasn't even offered a contract by the offensively challenged Chicago Bulls, yet, the Bulls thought he was a winner so R.C signed him.

Most teams focus on strengthening team weaknesses in the offseason, but not good old R.C. They have one true point guard and SF, and unless they sign Oden or make an unforeseen trade , they'll still be one of the worst rebounding teams in the league.

[ace3g]

here you go PlayBlair

DeJuan Blair @DeJuan45
(http://twitter.com/DeJuan45)Nice!

[Chinook]

Jason Collins is a big. Therefore, any team looking for a big should be all over Jason Collins, right???? Washington would like a stretch four, but like any other team in search for a S-4, They probably don't see Bonner as the answer.

Its really unfortunate about R.C. though. It's a shame he came into the offseason unprepared. He took a chance on two players that he knew nothing about. Pendergragh wasn't even good enough to crack Indiana's top four bigs but, upon an assistant's advice, he signed him. This is the type of move lottery teams make, not one's with championship aspirations. Pendergragh should fill Blair's shoes nicely stockpiling his garbage time minute resume. Belinelli wasn't even offered a contract by the offensively challenged Chicago Bulls, yet, the Bulls thought he was a winner so R.C signed him.

Most teams focus on strengthening team weaknesses in the offseason, but not good old R.C. They have one true point guard and SF, and unless they sign Oden or make an unforeseen trade , they'll still be one of the worst rebounding teams in the league.

There are many ways to build a team. The Spurs are at the stage where they can't prop up their team with ready-made older players. They need talented youth to provide depth and to learn the system. What has been the Spurs' most-important free-agent acquisition of the past seven years? Danny Green. Besides that, it's just been drafting well and letting Diaw fall into their laps.

So I like the Pendergraph signing, because Boylen thinks he can be a good piece in a similar way that Ferry thought Green could be. He's a good rebounder who has the range to play the four. He's a good addition to a team that needed a competent big to challenge Bonner.

I don't get the Belinelli signing, especially if they bring Neal back. I don't think he's a bad player, but the team didn't need so many guards. But unlike with point-guards, the log-jam at the two shouldn't hurt that much. Plus it gives the team a trade piece later on. The team has a lot of assets, with expiring contracts, young players and picks. They can certainly make a pretty big move if they need to.

[Kindergarten Cop]

Can he just sign with the Wizards outright?

Absolutely - but it can only be for a vet minimum deal and they are dangerously close to the tax threshold as it is. Blair is looking for more than a minimum deal and apparently the Wizards are willing to give it to him, but the only way they can do this is via sign and trade and it is yet to be seen if San Antonio wants anything that the Wizards may be offering in a S/T.

[ace3g]

Well Wizards and Spurs finished up their Summer League games today, wouldn't surprise me if teams are still interested, a deal will happen within next 24 hours. I had a theory some transactions/trade discussions were stalled till the end of SL, so teams could evaluate their young talent.

[Hoops Czar]

There are many ways to build a team. The Spurs are at the stage where they can't prop up their team with ready-made older players. They need talented youth to provide depth and to learn the system. What has been the Spurs' most-important free-agent acquisition of the past seven years? Danny Green. Besides that, it's just been drafting well and letting Diaw fall into their laps.

So I like the Pendergraph signing, because Boylen thinks he can be a good piece in a similar way that Ferry thought Green could be. He's a good rebounder who has the range to play the four. He's a good addition to a team that needed a competent big to challenge Bonner.

I don't get the Belinelli signing, especially if they bring Neal back. I don't think he's a bad player, but the team didn't need so many guards. But unlike with point-guards, the log-jam at the two shouldn't hurt that much. Plus it gives the team a trade piece later on. The team has a lot of assets, with expiring contracts, young players and picks. They can certainly make a pretty big move if they need to.

I agree that youth should be a priority but this isn't the time for trial and error. The clock is ticking and the time is now. Sometimes you need the right mixture of youth and experience to put yourself in contention. Right now, I see a lot of youth and not enough experience. This was the year where the Spurs finally had cap space to improve the overall quality of the team and shore up some weaknesses. That didn't happen. They grossly overpaid a declining Manu, resigned the little big man Tiago, and signed a couple of replacements for Neal and Blair.

Pendergragh might turn out to be something someday, but he has yet to prove someday will be during this upcoming season. And it should be realized that the majority of his production came in garbage time against 3rd stringers. You don't use part of the MLE on guy like this. That's just plain stupidity.

How can you limit Tony's minutes when you have a backup who's green behind the ears? How can you limit Duncan's minutes ( a priority) when you haven't got a solid big behind him that can consistently fill that role. When he takes a seat on the bench, the interior defense takes a huge hit. The Spurs do have replacement bigs, but the majority of them are inexperienced or just not that good and leads evaporate quick.


I also don't see the Spurs resigning Neal if they have any hopes of landing Oden unless they make a trade. Given R.C's track record, that's unlikely.

[Chinook]

I agree that youth should be a priority but this isn't the time for trial and error. The clock is ticking and the time is now. Sometimes you need the right mixture of youth and experience to put yourself in contention. Right now, I see a lot of youth and not enough experience. This was the year where the Spurs finally had cap space to improve the overall quality of the team and shore up some weaknesses. That didn't happen. They grossly overpaid a declining Manu, resigned the little big man Tiago, and signed a couple of replacements for Neal and Blair.

Pendergragh might turn out to be something someday, but he has yet to prove someday will be during this upcoming season. And it should be realized that the majority of his production came in garbage time against 3rd stringers. You don't use part of the MLE on guy like this. That's just plain stupidity.

How can you limit Tony's minutes when you have a backup who's green behind the ears? How can you limit Duncan's minutes ( a priority) when you haven't got a solid big behind him that can consistently fill that role. When he takes a seat on the bench, the interior defense takes a huge hit. The Spurs do have replacement bigs, but the majority of them are inexperienced or just not that good and leads evaporate quick.


I also don't see the Spurs resigning Neal if they have any hopes of landing Oden unless they make a trade. Given R.C's track record, that's unlikely.

The Spurs don't want Oden. That's just a rumor. They would not have signed Pendergraph if they wanted him.

Also, the Spurs can afford trial and error right now. They're bringing back the same team that almost won the title. They're just using their spots for younger players with upside, which seems like a great idea to me. If those guys contribute, great. But if they don't, the Spurs will be the same team but with a better Leonard, Green and Splitter. The Big Three will be older, but I think the top-eight will be better.

[cd021]

Can he just sign with the Wizards outright?

If he did it would be for the minimum ($988,000). They are near the luxury tax after acquiring Nene, Okafor, and Ariza last season. He is worth ,imo, 3 years $10-12 million. It wouldn't make sense for him to do that deal.

[MeloHype]

will this reach 20 pages? :lol
6 days later

[Sean Cagney]

FO is fucking retarted to not try and land Ariza for a Bonner Blair combo..Guess they think Bonner is too great of a Player to let go?..

BONNER will never be let go for some damn reason? I don't get it.
The Spurs don't Oden. That's just a rumor. They would not have signed Pendergraph if they wanted him.

Also, the Spurs can afford trial and error right now. They're bringing back the same team that almost won the title. They're just using their spots for younger players with upside, which seems like a great idea to me. If those guys contribute, great. But if they don't, the Spurs will be the same team but with a better Leonard, Green and Splitter. The Big Three will be older, but I think the top-eight will be better.

I agree with almost everything you said there. Belli should be an upgrade as well! Pendergraph should get more PT and contribute more than Blair did last year, so yes they are better sides the BIG three regressing some. I would have to put Leonard in the big three if he keeps improving, he was impressive in the playoffs.

[palangi]

FO is fucking retarted to not try and land Ariza for a Bonner Blair combo..Guess they think Bonner is too great of a Player to let go?..
does this mean the FO got re-sweeted? or are they dumb as in retarded?

I'm so confused?

[raybies]

Just for fun my offseason moves...

Trade Nando and Cory to the Jazz for Mo Williams
Trade Bonner and Blair to the Wizards for Ariza
Sign GreG Oden

Parker/ Williams/ Mills
Green/ Ginobili/ Belineli
Leonard/ Ariza
Duncan/ Diaw/ Pendergraph
Splitter/ Baynes/ Oden

[Darkwaters]

If he did it would be for the minimum ($988,000). They are near the luxury tax after acquiring Nene, Okafor, and Ariza last season. He is worth ,imo, 3 years $10-12 million. It wouldn't make sense for him to do that deal.

Based on what production? He probably nets a deal similar to Pendergraph's.

[Darkwaters]

Just for fun my offseason moves...

Trade Nando and Cory to the Jazz for Mo Williams
Trade Bonner and Blair to the Wizards for Ariza
Sign GreG Oden

Parker/ Williams/ Mills
Green/ Ginobili/ Belineli
Leonard/ Ariza
Duncan/ Diaw/ Pendergraph
Splitter/ Baynes/ Oden

Why is everyone so hot-to-trot on signing Greg Oden? The dude looks done. But even if he started playing at an elite level it would only last 45 minutes before he was injured for the rest of the season. He was drafted in 2008. Since then he has played a total of 82 regular season games and 6 playoff games. That's 1/5 of the available regular season games. And 61 of them came in his rookie year and the other 21 in his sophomore year. He hasn't played an NBA game in 3 years because hes been that hurt.

And you want to pay this guy millions of dollars? To do what? Go to doctor's appointments?

[Baseline]

Just for fun my offseason moves...

Trade Nando and Cory to the Jazz for Mo Williams
Trade Bonner and Blair to the Wizards for Ariza
Sign GreG Oden

Parker/ Williams/ Mills
Green/ Ginobili/ Belineli
Leonard/ Ariza
Duncan/ Diaw/ Pendergraph
Splitter/ Baynes/ Oden This would be fantastic. Unfortunately, that's exactly why it won't happen. Pop would rather do things the hard way, like leaving Tim on a island to get every rebound the entire game. Unless of course, it's closeout time in the Finals and all we need is one rebound for a championship. And he takes Tim out of the game.

[spurraider21]

Just for fun my offseason moves...

Trade Nando and Cory to the Jazz for Mo Williams
Trade Bonner and Blair to the Wizards for Ariza
Sign GreG Oden

Parker/ Williams/ Mills
Green/ Ginobili/ Belineli
Leonard/ Ariza
Duncan/ Diaw/ Pendergraph
Splitter/ Baynes/ Oden
Way to go, getting my hopes up and such :lol

[TheGreatYacht]

Why is everyone so hot-to-trot on signing Greg Oden? The dude looks done. But even if he started playing at an elite level it would only last 45 minutes before he was injured for the rest of the season. He was drafted in 2008. Since then he has played a total of 82 regular season games and 6 playoff games. That's 1/5 of the available regular season games. And 61 of them came in his rookie year and the other 21 in his sophomore year. He hasn't played an NBA game in 3 years because hes been that hurt.

And you want to pay this guy millions of dollars? To do what? Go to doctor's appointments?Who is saying millions of dollars? The signing would be for the minimum which makes Oden a low risk high reward type of acquisition.
This would be fantastic. Unfortunately, that's exactly why it won't happen. Pop would rather do things the hard way, like leaving Tim on a island to get every rebound the entire game. Unless of course, it's closeout time in the Finals and all we need is one rebound for a championship. And he takes Tim out of the game.Agree. Pop and the Spurs organization love doing things the hard way.

[Marcus Bryant]

Armchair GMs are awesome with 100 per cent accuracy in their hindsight.

As for Bonner, the attraction for Pop is that he's a 4 who shoots 45% from beyond the arc and helps space the floor on the offensive end.

Oden is intriguing given his age and talent. But he hasn't played in a NBA game in three and a half years. For the vet min, sure, if he's healthy signing him could pay off well. If he can't make it back, ever, then it was a decent wager.

[Darkwaters]

Who is saying millions of dollars? The signing would be for the minimum which makes Oden a low risk high reward type of acquisition.

Wow, are you for real? That's a pretty moronic response.

A) If you're going to sign him it probably isn't a one year deal. Multiple years = millions of dollars
B) Hes already got options from the Hornets for much more than the minimum. You think a one year minimum deal would cut it? You're deluded.
C) It still doesn't matter since he won't hardly ever play regardless

[Vic Petro]

Wow, are you for real? That's a pretty moronic response.

A) If you're going to sign him it probably isn't a one year deal. Multiple years = millions of dollars
B) Hes already got options from the Hornets for much more than the minimum. You think a one year minimum deal would cut it? You're deluded.
C) It still doesn't matter since he won't hardly ever play regardless

Depends on how Oden views himself imo. He has banked over $45m already. Is this a final cash grab because he sees the writing on the wall? Or is this a sincere attempt to place himself in the best possible growth environment basketball and health wise. If its the former then NO or Dal makes the most sense. If its the the latter then SA and Mia make the most sense.

[TheGreatYacht]

Wow, are you for real? That's a pretty moronic response.

A) If you're going to sign him it probably isn't a one year deal. Multiple years = millions of dollars
B) Hes already got options from the Hornets for much more than the minimum. You think a one year minimum deal would cut it? You're deluded.
C) It still doesn't matter since he won't hardly ever play regardlessYou have a pretty moronic mentality if you actually think that the Spurs or Heat are willing to commit on Greg Oden for over a year. Spurs are over the cap so I don't know why you're even concerned about he Spurs signing him long term and spending millions of dollars on him, same goes for the Heat. Go study the CBA rules before posting idiotic comments in here. The only delusional one here is you thinking that a team is stupid enough to commit long term.

[cd021]

Based on what production? He probably nets a deal similar to Pendergraph's.

His career PER is 17.5 (about) his has been very efficient. Spurs fans tend to over the fact he was the #37 pick. He is worth much more than Pendegraph in terms of past production hands down. He is an fantastic P&R player and great rebounder. Someone will pay him in that area code.

[ace3g]

Jared Zwerling @JaredZwerling
(http://twitter.com/JaredZwerling)Source: DeJuan Blair still talking to teams. He's in mini midlevel $3 million range, as for most FAs still available leaving #Knicks (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Knicks) out.

[Darkwaters]

You have a pretty moronic mentality if you actually think that the Spurs or Heat are willing to commit on Greg Oden for over a year. Spurs are over the cap so I don't know why you're even concerned about he Spurs signing him long term and spending millions of dollars on him, same goes for the Heat. Go study the CBA rules before posting idiotic comments in here. The only delusional one here is you thinking that a team is stupid enough to commit long term.

So basically, what you propose is a one year minimum deal? Why would he sign that? Someone will either offer him more than the minimum or multiple years.

You seem to forget that the Spurs aren't the only one that has to agree to the terms involved.

[Darkwaters]

His career PER is 17.5 (about) his has been very efficient. Spurs fans tend to over the fact he was the #37 pick. He is worth much more than Pendegraph in terms of past production hands down. He is an fantastic P&R player and great rebounder. Someone will pay him in that area code.

Hence the reason he logged such massive minutes during the playoffs and finals.

I'm sorry, garbage time stats don't excite me. The fact is that they liked him to eat minutes during the season against inferior teams. However, when the games mattered he didn't play. If I want a player to do that I take Matt Bonner well before Dejuan Blair. Hes an assassin from 3 and can actually play passable defense on occasion. Sure, he doesn't play in the playoffs, but neither does Blair. For a garbage team that has no chance to competing (ie, the Wiz) Dejuan is a good fit. Hes the prototypical big numbers on a bad team kind of guy.

[Marcus Bryant]

Bonner helps win regular season games. In the recently concluded playoffs, he was solid in the first round and the WCF.

If he was the player Spurs fans expect, his salary would be double what it is. As it stands, it's less than the league average.

Spurs fans have it good if they think his contract is some kind of albatross, or that he isn't paid appropriately for his value.

[playblair]

^ bonner is wack..................... blair provides more than bonner does..................... bonner will never have 2 30/20 games .......................

[playblair]

358675325804224514

[Hoops Czar]

Bonner helps win regular season games. In the recently concluded playoffs, he was solid in the first round and the WCF.

If he was the player Spurs fans expect, his salary would be double what it is. As it stands, it's less than the league average.

Spurs fans have it good if they think his contract is some kind of albatross, or that he isn't paid appropriately for his value.

If by helping win regular season games, you mean sparing some starters from logging extra minutes. Then yes, he helps win games in the same way CoJo, Mills and De Colo helped to relieve Tony Parker from logging extended minutes, thus keeping him fresh for the 4th quarter push.

But his 1.6 FG's and 2 RPG contributions could have been covered by any one player on the roster.

[Kindergarten Cop]

If by helping win regular season games, you mean sparing some starters from logging extra minutes. Then yes, he helps win games in the same way CoJo, Mills and De Colo helped to relieve Tony Parker from logging extended minutes.

But his 1.6 FG's and 2 RPG contributions could have been covered by any one player on the roster.

Honestly though, he does bring a bit more value than just the number of FGs or rebounds considering that when he's on the floor, he draws the big guarding him out of the lane - which opens up shots for others. I'm not saying that he is irreplaceable, but you have to admit that he brings more to the table than the stats that you used.

Now, I'll duck out before all of the Bonner haters show up with their torches and pitchforks. :downspin:

[Hoops Czar]

Honestly though, he does bring a bit more value than just the number of FGs or rebounds considering that when he's on the floor, he draws the big guarding him out of the lane - which opens up shots for others. I'm not saying that he is irreplaceable, but you have to admit that he brings more to the table than the stats that you used.

Now, I'll duck out before all of the Bonner haters show up with their torches and pitchforks. :downspin:

I was responding to MB's assertation that Bonner helps win games. Sure, what you say is true but he averages less than 14 minutes per game and that number is skewed by the resting of key starters during various games of the regular season. He's also rarely, if ever is used in late and close game situations and when the Spurs need a three late, Bonner is riding the pine. His value comes in the form of relief of others more so than anything else.

[DapDaGenius]

Blair ain't sign to another team yet? *sigh*

[DapDaGenius]

^ bonner is wack..................... blair provides more than bonner does..................... bonner will never have 2 30/20 games .......................

I have a feeling you want Richards to replace Bonner.

[TheGreatYacht]

Bonner helps win regular season games. In the recently concluded playoffs, he was solid in the first round and the WCF.

If he was the player Spurs fans expect, his salary would be double what it is. As it stands, it's less than the league average.

Spurs fans have it good if they think his contract is some kind of albatross, or that he isn't paid appropriately for his value.I actually agree with this comment. The main reason why Spurs fans pick on Matt Bonner's contract is because they refuse to point the finger at their hometown hero Manu Ginobili. Manu is the one that is big time overpaid . He's past his prime and the FO rewarded his pathetic performance in the NBA finals by offering him that $14M 2 year deal.
^ bonner is wack..................... blair provides more than bonner does..................... bonner will never have 2 30/20 games .......................De Colo sucks. He's a scrub, he bitches about his minutes, he is cocky, and he is just a waste of roster space.

[CGD]

Jared Zwerling @JaredZwerling
(http://twitter.com/JaredZwerling)Source: DeJuan Blair still talking to teams. He's in mini midlevel $3 million range, as for most FAs still available leaving #Knicks (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Knicks) out.




good find.
At this point in the game, who has that money? Do many teams? I feel most of the big money has been spent. is S&T the best option?

[Marcus Bryant]

If by helping win regular season games, you mean sparing some starters from logging extra minutes. Then yes, he helps win games in the same way CoJo, Mills and De Colo helped to relieve Tony Parker from logging extended minutes, thus keeping him fresh for the 4th quarter push.

But his 1.6 FG's and 2 RPG contributions could have been covered by any one player on the roster.


Naïve. Instead of a 4 camped near the paint so his defender can easily help on penetration or TD posting up the defender's focus is outside.

Watch a game sometime. And tell me which stat covers that impact.

[Chinook]

Naïve. Instead of a 4 camped near the paint so his defender can easily help on penetration or TD posting up the defender's focus is outside.

Watch a game sometime. And tell me which stat covers that impact.

Bonner wasn't the plus-minus king for nothing.

[unforeseen]

:lol Blair getting anything worthwhile.

[exstatic]

^ bonner is wack..................... blair provides more than bonner does..................... bonner will never have 2 30/20 games .......................

Blair's never even had one.

[therealtruth]

I wonder if Blair plays overseas.

[cd021]

Hence the reason he logged such massive minutes during the playoffs and finals.

I'm sorry, garbage time stats don't excite me. The fact is that they liked him to eat minutes during the season against inferior teams. However, when the games mattered he didn't play. If I want a player to do that I take Matt Bonner well before Dejuan Blair. Hes an assassin from 3 and can actually play passable defense on occasion. Sure, he doesn't play in the playoffs, but neither does Blair. For a garbage team that has no chance to competing (ie, the Wiz) Dejuan is a good fit. Hes the prototypical big numbers on a bad team kind of guy.

What are you talking about? for the past four seasons he's been a well above average player. Why focus on last season when he was replaced by a point forward and player who was 4 inches taller with a similar skill set.His numbers are good. The Spurs are an elite team who needed an infusion of young talent, he was the guy they looked to. He started in place in Dyess. When the postseason rolled around Dyess was healthy and we were playing a front line consisting of a 6'10 and 7'1 talented front line. He couldn't check an red hot physical ZBo. Its not a knock on his lack of talent it was a bad matchup considering he is 3-4 inches shorter than him.

Diaw the following season had a unique skill set that pushed Blair to the bench. Diaw was capable of defending centers, PFs and switchng/hedging onto 1-3 in P&Rs. He can hit 3's at a high rate, is a fantastic passer and can attack the rim off the dribble. Diaw paired with Duncan and the rest of the Spurs starting line up made sense. He can stretch the floor and pass Blair could do only one of those two well.

Why compare Bonner and Blair? Its irrelevant. Bonner can defend the post and hit 3's. Blair can board and scores well in the p&r. He is also a fantastic passer. They both had positive contributions on a team that made the finals.

Splitter finally got to start in December and played well enough to keep the job. Replacing Blair for the reasons I mentioned above. Blair didn't get benched because he stunk it was because Splitter and Diaw offered better alternatives in our system. There is no shame in that. He is certainly worth $3 million and is now being looked at with the mini midlevel exception by several teams.

Blair could cerainly be a backup for the Wizards. He put up great numbers on a pair of 60 win teams. He can certainly do it for a team that is likely to make the playoffs as an 8th seed.

[TheGreatYacht]

What are you talking about? for the past four seasons he's been a well above average player. Why focus on last season when he was replaced by a point forward and player who was 4 inches taller with a similar skill set.His numbers are good. The Spurs are an elite team who needed an infusion of young talent, he was the guy they looked to. He started in place in Dyess. When the postseason rolled around Dyess was healthy and we were playing a front line consisting of a 6'10 and 7'1 talented front line. He couldn't check an red hot physical ZBo. Its not a knock on his lack of talent it was a bad matchup considering he is 3-4 inches shorter than him.

Diaw the following season had a unique skill set that pushed Blair to the bench. Diaw was capable of defending centers, PFs and switchng/hedging onto 1-3 in P&Rs. He can hit 3's at a high rate, is a fantastic passer and can attack the rim off the dribble. Diaw paired with Duncan and the rest of the Spurs starting line up made sense. He can stretch the floor and pass Blair could do only one of those two well.

Why compare Bonner and Blair? Its irrelevant. Bonner can defend the post and hit 3's. Blair can board and scores well in the p&r. He is also a fantastic passer. They both had positive contributions on a team that made the finals.

Splitter finally got to start in December and played well enough to keep the job. Replacing Blair for the reasons I mentioned above. Blair didn't get benched because he stunk it was because Splitter and Diaw offered better alternatives in our system. There is no shame in that. He is certainly worth $3 million and is now being looked at with the mini midlevel exception by several teams.

Blair could cerainly be a backup for the Wizards. He put up great numbers on a pair of 60 win teams. He can certainly do it for a team that is likely to make the playoffs as an 8th seed.This.

I don't understand where all the hate towards Blair is coming from. I don't know how some Spurs fans wish him failure (lol, they shit on me for being ungrateful towards Manu - hypocrisy). Seriously, it's not DeJuan Blair's fault that God didn't gift him with 2 or 3 more inches of height.

[playblair]

What are you talking about? for the past four seasons he's been a well above average player. Why focus on last season when he was replaced by a point forward and player who was 4 inches taller with a similar skill set.His numbers are good. The Spurs are an elite team who needed an infusion of young talent, he was the guy they looked to. He started in place in Dyess. When the postseason rolled around Dyess was healthy and we were playing a front line consisting of a 6'10 and 7'1 talented front line. He couldn't check an red hot physical ZBo. Its not a knock on his lack of talent it was a bad matchup considering he is 3-4 inches shorter than him.

Diaw the following season had a unique skill set that pushed Blair to the bench. Diaw was capable of defending centers, PFs and switchng/hedging onto 1-3 in P&Rs. He can hit 3's at a high rate, is a fantastic passer and can attack the rim off the dribble. Diaw paired with Duncan and the rest of the Spurs starting line up made sense. He can stretch the floor and pass Blair could do only one of those two well.

Why compare Bonner and Blair? Its irrelevant. Bonner can defend the post and hit 3's. Blair can board and scores well in the p&r. He is also a fantastic passer. They both had positive contributions on a team that made the finals.

Splitter finally got to start in December and played well enough to keep the job. Replacing Blair for the reasons I mentioned above. Blair didn't get benched because he stunk it was because Splitter and Diaw offered better alternatives in our system. There is no shame in that. He is certainly worth $3 million and is now being looked at with the mini midlevel exception by several teams.

Blair could cerainly be a backup for the Wizards. He put up great numbers on a pair of 60 win teams. He can certainly do it for a team that is likely to make the playoffs as an 8th seed.

props on this post...................

[yavozerb]

What are you talking about? for the past four seasons he's been a well above average player. Why focus on last season when he was replaced by a point forward and player who was 4 inches taller with a similar skill set.His numbers are good. The Spurs are an elite team who needed an infusion of young talent, he was the guy they looked to. He started in place in Dyess. When the postseason rolled around Dyess was healthy and we were playing a front line consisting of a 6'10 and 7'1 talented front line. He couldn't check an red hot physical ZBo. Its not a knock on his lack of talent it was a bad matchup considering he is 3-4 inches shorter than him.

Diaw the following season had a unique skill set that pushed Blair to the bench. Diaw was capable of defending centers, PFs and switchng/hedging onto 1-3 in P&Rs. He can hit 3's at a high rate, is a fantastic passer and can attack the rim off the dribble. Diaw paired with Duncan and the rest of the Spurs starting line up made sense. He can stretch the floor and pass Blair could do only one of those two well.

Why compare Bonner and Blair? Its irrelevant. Bonner can defend the post and hit 3's. Blair can board and scores well in the p&r. He is also a fantastic passer. They both had positive contributions on a team that made the finals.

Splitter finally got to start in December and played well enough to keep the job. Replacing Blair for the reasons I mentioned above. Blair didn't get benched because he stunk it was because Splitter and Diaw offered better alternatives in our system. There is no shame in that. He is certainly worth $3 million and is now being looked at with the mini midlevel exception by several teams.

Blair could cerainly be a backup for the Wizards. He put up great numbers on a pair of 60 win teams. He can certainly do it for a team that is likely to make the playoffs as an 8th seed.

Good post. I think using the word "great" for his numbers is a bit of an overstatement but he played well. Blair's downfall has always been his defense, not much he can do about that just undersized. Blair is a 20 mpg energy type player who comes in mixes things up. Nothing wrong with this its just who he is. Never going to be able to play regular type minutes in my opinion due to knees. Always will be one of my favorite players.

[cd021]

Good post. I think using the word "great" for his numbers is a bit of an overstatement but he played well. Blair's downfall has always been his defense, not much he can do about that just undersized. Blair is a 20 mpg energy type player who comes in mixes things up. Nothing wrong with this its just who he is. Never going to be able to play regular type minutes in my opinion due to knees. Always will be one of my favorite players.

Thanks. Good is better, I stand corrected. In terms of where he was picked in the draft, he was an absolute steal. His defense is problematic but every player has his flaws and limitations that's his. 20mpg is a good number he can certainly have a nice career as a bench player.

[elemento]

The thing about Blair is simple.

We expected more from him.

Even with all his flaws, he came to the NBA as a rebounding beast and with the years, we were expecting a jump-shot and improvement on the defensive area. It did not happen and that's why most ST fans are so frustrated.

Even though his tweets are pretty annoying, he handled his bench situation like a PRO, in a very mature way. Way different than a gangsta loved here in ST.

I don't understand why so many people hate him so much.

I wish nothing but the best for him.

[TheGreatYacht]

Good post. I think using the word "great" for his numbers is a bit of an overstatement but he played well. Blair's downfall has always been his defense, not much he can do about that just undersized. Blair is a 20 mpg energy type player who comes in mixes things up. Nothing wrong with this its just who he is. Never going to be able to play regular type minutes in my opinion due to knees. Always will be one of my favorite players.Blair faces a similar problem to Nate Robinson in that they both are bad defenders by default just because of their short height. If Dejuan Blair was 6' 10" and Nate Robinson was 6'2", then they would probably be star players worth about $6-$8M a year, minimum.

[xmas1997]

The thing about Blair is simple.

We expected more from him.

Even with all his flaws, he came to the NBA as a rebounding beast and with the years, we were expecting a jump-shot and improvement on the defensive area. It did not happen and that's why most ST fans are so frustrated.

Even though his tweets are pretty annoying, he handled his bench situation like a PRO, in a very mature way. Way different than a gangsta loved here in ST.

I don't understand why so many people hate him so much.

I wish nothing but the best for him.


Same here, I wish him the best, except of course when he plays against the Spurs!

[cd021]

This.

I don't understand where all the hate towards Blair is coming from. I don't know how some Spurs fans wish him failure (lol, they shit on me for being ungrateful towards Manu - hypocrisy). Seriously, it's not DeJuan Blair's fault that God didn't gift him with 2 or 3 more inches of height.

Spurs fans also do this with Neal and Bonner and it annoys the hell outta me. They are role players who produce within their roles and get paid accordingly (plus Neal has outperformed his deal 10 fold in my opinion)

[cd021]

The thing about Blair is simple.

We expected more from him.

Even with all his flaws, he came to the NBA as a rebounding beast and with the years, we were expecting a jump-shot and improvement on the defensive area. It did not happen and that's why most ST fans are so frustrated.

Even though his tweets are pretty annoying, he handled his bench situation like a PRO, in a very mature way. Way different than a gangsta loved here in ST.

I don't understand why so many people hate him so much.

I wish nothing but the best for him.

Exactly right.

[Marcus Bryant]

Blair was good value for where he was selected and is a quality player. He just does not fit this team.

[spurraider21]

I didn't mind Blair on the team given his tiny salary. That is where I drew the distinction between him and Bonner, though Matty played well in these playoffs.

[AFBlue]

Blair is one of my favorite non-Big 3 players of the Big 3 era. He came into the league with a sizeable chip on his shoulder ready to prove the doubters wrong. With sheer determination...and enormous backside...he was able to do so right out of the gate.

Unfortunately, he never took the big step forward skill-wise and to grow beyond (insert WhataBurger joke here) the "energy big" role. Like others have said, he took his fluctuating role and minutes mostly in stride, and seemed to be a well-liked member of the team. I hope he goes to a team that can more effectively utilize his strengths and give him a more prominent role.

I understand the FO's decision to move on from him, but I wish him well.

[playblair]

I didn't mind Blair on the team given his tiny salary. That is where I drew the distinction between him and Bonner, though Matty played well in these playoffs.

where was bonner vs the heat....................... blair would've dominated miller/birdman/battier ...................................

[spurraider21]

where was bonner vs the heat....................... blair would've dominated miller/birdman/battier ...................................

Bonner is a matchup guy that comes into play when the other team has 2 relatively immobile bigs, like the Lakers and Grizzlies. This is why he was effective there but not against small ball teams like the Warriors or Heat. I don't trust Blair's defense against a team like Miami thats going to have him out in space. He's not quick enough to hang with perimeter guys. Even if he's matched up on a guy like Mike Miller, a screen or two and he's going to end up on the likes of LeBron or Wade. He's too short and too slow to match with LeBron, and he's too small to be an effective help defender against Wade/Bron.

[Darkwaters]

What are you talking about? for the past four seasons he's been a well above average player. Why focus on last season when he was replaced by a point forward and player who was 4 inches taller with a similar skill set.His numbers are good. The Spurs are an elite team who needed an infusion of young talent, he was the guy they looked to. He started in place in Dyess. When the postseason rolled around Dyess was healthy and we were playing a front line consisting of a 6'10 and 7'1 talented front line. He couldn't check an red hot physical ZBo. Its not a knock on his lack of talent it was a bad matchup considering he is 3-4 inches shorter than him.

Diaw the following season had a unique skill set that pushed Blair to the bench. Diaw was capable of defending centers, PFs and switchng/hedging onto 1-3 in P&Rs. He can hit 3's at a high rate, is a fantastic passer and can attack the rim off the dribble. Diaw paired with Duncan and the rest of the Spurs starting line up made sense. He can stretch the floor and pass Blair could do only one of those two well.

Why compare Bonner and Blair? Its irrelevant. Bonner can defend the post and hit 3's. Blair can board and scores well in the p&r. He is also a fantastic passer. They both had positive contributions on a team that made the finals.

Splitter finally got to start in December and played well enough to keep the job. Replacing Blair for the reasons I mentioned above. Blair didn't get benched because he stunk it was because Splitter and Diaw offered better alternatives in our system. There is no shame in that. He is certainly worth $3 million and is now being looked at with the mini midlevel exception by several teams.

Blair could cerainly be a backup for the Wizards. He put up great numbers on a pair of 60 win teams. He can certainly do it for a team that is likely to make the playoffs as an 8th seed.


Pros:
- Huge 7'2" wingspan
- Shoots a high FG% (just under 53% for his career)
- Still only 24 years old
- Historically a good rebounder (one of the most prolific ever in NCAA history)
- Good Pick n' Roll player
- Very nifty, and underrated, passer out of the post
- Possesses a great floater in the lane
- Knee issues have not plagued his career, as many had thought likely
- Seems to have overcome issues with weight
- Streaky. Has rare occasions where he gets hot and goes off
- As a result, had some monstrous games early in his career (20/20's)
- A ball of energy; serves as a great energizer for the team

Cons:
- Woefully undersized at 6'6.5" (in shoes) for a center
- Exclusively a center, has no capacity to play PF
- Among the league's worst defensive bigmen
- Not an enforcer; blocks very few shots and cannot guard the lane
- Struggles to understand team defensive concepts, despite 4 years in the system, and also in man-to-man D
- Low BBIQ
- Has consistently, lacked consistency
- Has no jump shot to speak of; purely a post scorer
- Not a threat in the Pick n' Pop
- Shoots a horrible FT% (60% for career, almost 63% last year)
- Despite coming into the league at age 20, has shown no real improvement in 4 seasons
- Per 36M rebounding numbers have been steadily declining since rookie season except for a minor rise this last season (.48 RPG)
- Possible future knee issues will always be a concern, especially as he gets older and puts more miles on them
- Limited playoff experience, despite ample opportunity. Through 36 playoff games with the Spurs hes only averaged 8.2 MPG
- Additionally has very limited 4th Quarter experience (except garbage time), as he was largely used early in games when in the rotation
- Has been consistently dropped from the rotation prior to the playoffs basically his entire career
- Has historically struggled and sulked when not starting, somewhat mitigating his utility as an energy big


I think thats a fairly balanced assessment of Mr. Blair. Although I've no doubt playblair will object within 2 minutes of this post.

Reading that analysis, and without knowing the player's name, would you be interested in this guy? I wouldn't. You seem to credit him losing his job to other, more capable, players coming in. That is definitely true. But the Spurs had been needing bigs for sometime when they drafted Blair. He came into a house that was vacant and prime for squatting. It's only natural that the team upgrade and move past him, as he was occupying a spot he was only worthy to fill out of sheer desperation (reference: see 2008-2009, otherwise known as the year Matt Bonner started 67 games).

Now, I definitely think that Blair is an NBA player. Hes proven that he can play in the league. But hes a very deeply flawed player that also comes with some probably overstated but legitimate injury concerns. He definitely deserves a contract from someone, but considering his limitations I wouldn't take it too far. But, of course, this league is filled with teams like the Raptors and Bobcats. Teams with GM's just itching to draft poorly and offer ill-advised contracts. Some GM will take a flyer on him, maybe overpaying in the process, in the hopes that a change of scenery will unleash him.

Personally, as a Spurs fan, he has no place on this team. Hes always struggled to understand where to be and what to do, and has basically been a regular season minutes eater. For the money, he was a great buy - just like Neal. But while I'd gladly accept Neal back, Blair just has no place on this squad. I wish him luck in Washington or wherever he goes.

[Baam]

Blair is a PF, only on a team like the Spurs would he get called a center...

[Darkwaters]

Blair is a PF, only on a team like the Spurs would he get called a center...

And yet he is deficient in PF skills and can't guard them either.

The only reason you're saying that is because of his height. But if he were 6'10 you'd tell me that hes a center and shouldn't be called a PF.

[exstatic]

Blair is a PF, only on a team like the Spurs would he get called a center...
If you go by height, he's not even a PF. If you go by his game, he absolutely IS a center.

[lurker23]

Great post Darkwaters. Excellent summation of what Blair is and is not.

[playblair]

And yet he is deficient in PF skills and can't guard them either.

The only reason you're saying that is because of his height. But if he were 6'10 you'd tell me that hes a center and shouldn't be called a PF.

blair played very well defensively vs pf's ....................... blair was a legit defensive threat vs griffin.......... pau.......... ibaka........
not to mention blair gave dirk fits .....................................

the blair cant defend myth was started because no one wanted to blame dice ............................

[Darkwaters]

blair played very well defensively vs pf's ....................... blair was a legit defensive threat vs griffin.......... pau.......... ibaka........
not to mention blair gave dirk fits .....................................

the blair cant defend myth was started because no one wanted to blame dice ............................

Any tiny smidge of credibility you might have maintained just evaporated.

You're just a joke.

[chrhawk]

blair played very well defensively vs pf's ....................... blair was a legit defensive threat vs griffin.......... pau.......... ibaka........
not to mention blair gave dirk fits .....................................

the blair cant defend myth was started because no one wanted to blame dice ............................

http://weknowmemes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/oh-wait-youre-serious-let-me-laugh-even-harder.jpg (http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=tHxvJTLq570PDM&tbnid=yeLpQmpwK95gDM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fweknowmemes.com%2F2012%2F03%2Foh-wait-youre-serious-let-me-laugh-even-harder%2F&ei=fIDtUdBKj4j2BJjqgOgD&bvm=bv.49478099,d.aWM&psig=AFQjCNF5_CHfi-JjGSHHeB1JSu5FFJurSQ&ust=1374605809294813)

[playblair]

359388259379462144
359382402084241410

[Darkwaters]

playblair, just admit it:

http://i500.listal.com/image/3658774/500full.jpg

You got nothing.

[raybies]

Blair and Neal for Ariza. Would upgrade 2 positions; backup sg and backup pf-c, while we get depth at sf. Blair and Neal's constructed so that it meets the minimum to be sent out for return.

If this doesnt work Its because either, we're not high on Ariza or the Wizards are.

[TheGreatYacht]

Blair and Neal for Ariza. Would upgrade 2 positions; backup sg and backup pf-c, while we get depth at sf. Blair and Neal's constructed so that it meets the minimum to be sent out for return.

If this doesnt work Its because either, we're not high on Ariza or the Wizards are.Could also be that Pop is too high on Bonner.

[Darkwaters]

Blair and Neal for Ariza. Would upgrade 2 positions; backup sg and backup pf-c, while we get depth at sf. Blair and Neal's constructed so that it meets the minimum to be sent out for return.

If this doesnt work Its because either, we're not high on Ariza or the Wizards are.

How would that affect the cap since we're technically not sending any salary out...just gaining Ariza's contract for basically nothing.

[Baam]

And yet he is deficient in PF skills and can't guard them either.

The only reason you're saying that is because of his height. But if he were 6'10 you'd tell me that hes a center and shouldn't be called a PF.

What the hell is a PF skill?

Positions are not about skills, there's shooting guards who can't shoot, plenty of them...

Blair guards PFs, he's decent against players like Griffin and is certainly not guarded by the other team center... So when you play PF on both ends well you're a PF, same thing with Duncan who is a center and has been for a few years...

[Darkwaters]

What the hell is a PF skill?

Positions are not about skills, there's shooting guards who can't shoot, plenty of them...

Blair guards PFs, he's decent against players like Griffin and is certainly not guarded by the other team center... So when you play PF on both ends well you're a PF, same thing with Duncan who is a center and has been for a few years...

So you're of the opinion that PF's do exactly the same thing as centers?

Hmmm, curious.

[coyotes_geek]

Blair and Neal for Ariza. Would upgrade 2 positions; backup sg and backup pf-c, while we get depth at sf. Blair and Neal's constructed so that it meets the minimum to be sent out for return.

If this doesnt work Its because either, we're not high on Ariza or the Wizards are.

Or because the Wizards aren't high on Neal.

Or because Neal isn't high on the Wizards.

Or because the Wizards already have 14 guys under contract and aren't interested in a 2 for 1 swap.

[Darkwaters]

Or because Neal isn't high on the Wizards.



In all seriousness, can you name one person that's high on the Wizards?

[barakz21]

Wow, 22 pages of nothing. Seriously, I hope the Spurs s&t him and Neal or package him with Bonner for a player, ANY player who can help the Spurs. That'd be a win for them imo, since they get a player that can help them AND keep a roster spot open.

[coyotes_geek]

In all seriousness, can you name one person that's high on the Wizards?

Depends how much money is being offered.

[spurraider21]

So is the AK47 deal dead for sure?

[rmt]

blair played very well defensively vs pf's ....................... blair was a legit defensive threat vs griffin.......... pau.......... ibaka........
not to mention blair gave dirk fits .....................................

the blair cant defend myth was started because no one wanted to blame dice ............................

Dice was AWESOME against Dirk.


What the hell is a PF skill?

Positions are not about skills, there's shooting guards who can't shoot, plenty of them...

Blair guards PFs, he's decent against players like Griffin and is certainly not guarded by the other team center... So when you play PF on both ends well you're a PF, same thing with Duncan who is a center and has been for a few years...

Disagree. Duncan plays center when he's playing with Diaw and Bonner and PF (high post) when he plays with Splitter and Blair. Defensively, he usually takes the less mobile of opponent's PF/C.

[Kindergarten Cop]

How would that affect the cap since we're technically not sending any salary out...just gaining Ariza's contract for basically nothing.

We'd be over the cap, but under the luxury tax.

[Kindergarten Cop]

So is the AK47 deal dead for sure?

:lmao

In all seriousness, you need to be careful here. I'm surprised nobody has replied feeling like Lloyd Christmas.

[coyotes_geek]

So is the AK47 deal dead for sure?

It's just in hibernation. The Nets can't trade AK until December 15th, so on December 16th we should all hold our breath for a Bonner for AK swap to go down. If it doesn't happen it's because Pop and RC are stupid or something and love Bonner too much, because the Nets would definitely make that deal if the Spurs offered it.

[spurraider21]

It's just in hibernation. The Nets can't trade AK until December 15th, so on December 16th we should all hold our breath for a Bonner for AK swap to go down. If it doesn't happen it's because Pop and RC are stupid or something and love Bonner too much, because the Nets would definitely make that deal if the Spurs offered it.

the nets should take bonner he spreads the floor

[playblair]

359442278659526657
359406092444381184

[exstatic]

So is the AK47 deal dead for sure?

:lol:rollin:lol:rollin:lol:rollin:lol:rollin:lol:r ollin

[Floyd Pacquiao]

just one of these days it'd be nice to log on to ST only to find out that blair & neal or bonner has been traded for ariza. guy can dream though :cry

[Blackjack]

In all seriousness, can you name one person that's high on the Wizards?

It's the NBA. It's the off-season.

Not sure I could name a player who isn't high on the Wiz.

[Kindergarten Cop]

In all seriousness, can you name one person that's high on the Wizards?


It's the NBA. It's the off-season.

Not sure I could name a player who isn't high on the Wiz.

Both Chris Webber and Josh Howard were at one time.

:smokin

[cd021]

Pros:
- Huge 7'2" wingspan
- Shoots a high FG% (just under 53% for his career)
- Still only 24 years old
- Historically a good rebounder (one of the most prolific ever in NCAA history)
- Good Pick n' Roll player
- Very nifty, and underrated, passer out of the post
- Possesses a great floater in the lane
- Knee issues have not plagued his career, as many had thought likely
- Seems to have overcome issues with weight
- Streaky. Has rare occasions where he gets hot and goes off
- As a result, had some monstrous games early in his career (20/20's)
- A ball of energy; serves as a great energizer for the team

Cons:
- Woefully undersized at 6'6.5" (in shoes) for a center
- Exclusively a center, has no capacity to play PF
- Among the league's worst defensive bigmen
- Not an enforcer; blocks very few shots and cannot guard the lane
- Struggles to understand team defensive concepts, despite 4 years in the system, and also in man-to-man D
- Low BBIQ
- Has consistently, lacked consistency
- Has no jump shot to speak of; purely a post scorer
- Not a threat in the Pick n' Pop
- Shoots a horrible FT% (60% for career, almost 63% last year)
- Despite coming into the league at age 20, has shown no real improvement in 4 seasons
- Per 36M rebounding numbers have been steadily declining since rookie season except for a minor rise this last season (.48 RPG)
- Possible future knee issues will always be a concern, especially as he gets older and puts more miles on them
- Limited playoff experience, despite ample opportunity. Through 36 playoff games with the Spurs hes only averaged 8.2 MPG
- Additionally has very limited 4th Quarter experience (except garbage time), as he was largely used early in games when in the rotation
- Has been consistently dropped from the rotation prior to the playoffs basically his entire career
- Has historically struggled and sulked when not starting, somewhat mitigating his utility as an energy big


I think thats a fairly balanced assessment of Mr. Blair. Although I've no doubt playblair will object within 2 minutes of this post.

Reading that analysis, and without knowing the player's name, would you be interested in this guy? I wouldn't. You seem to credit him losing his job to other, more capable, players coming in. That is definitely true. But the Spurs had been needing bigs for sometime when they drafted Blair. He came into a house that was vacant and prime for squatting. It's only natural that the team upgrade and move past him, as he was occupying a spot he was only worthy to fill out of sheer desperation (reference: see 2008-2009, otherwise known as the year Matt Bonner started 67 games).

Now, I definitely think that Blair is an NBA player. Hes proven that he can play in the league. But hes a very deeply flawed player that also comes with some probably overstated but legitimate injury concerns. He definitely deserves a contract from someone, but considering his limitations I wouldn't take it too far. But, of course, this league is filled with teams like the Raptors and Bobcats. Teams with GM's just itching to draft poorly and offer ill-advised contracts. Some GM will take a flyer on him, maybe overpaying in the process, in the hopes that a change of scenery will unleash him.

Personally, as a Spurs fan, he has no place on this team. Hes always struggled to understand where to be and what to do, and has basically been a regular season minutes eater. For the money, he was a great buy - just like Neal. But while I'd gladly accept Neal back, Blair just has no place on this squad. I wish him luck in Washington or wherever he goes.

I would take that player.

I agree with most everything on your post but...

When he was drafted. He replaced Oberto and Thomas who were traded for RJ. The Spurs then used the MLE on Mcdyess. Blair only averaged about 18mpg in the 09-10 season. He came off the bench with with Bonner or McDyess.

McDyess-50 starts
Bonner-23 starts

I think you got the seasons confused. In his 1st season Blair only stated 23 games. The Spurs had 6 bigs Duncan, McDyess, Blair, Bonner, Ratliff (for about 2 months), and Mihammi (D League). After Duncan none of then averaged more than 19 mpg. Blair didn't play a big role but filled the PF-C as apart of committee.

The following season Blair started. That was indeed to eat up minutes for McDyess. The plan worked out fairly weel Blair was solid and McDyess was fresh for the post season.


He is flawed but he is a role player. Of course he has flaws. He can't defend and is the size of an average 2 guard. He has, however worked hard to overcome his shortcomings (pardon the expression). He added a floater to get off his shot in the paint over bigger players while receiving the ball in the P&R. He is athletic enough to maneuver in midair and avoid getting his shot blocked.

He also the rim to shield his layups. He jumper was better and actually knocked them down in games. He also converted on a career high in Free throw %. As is he is a valuable player to have and has earned minutes on a title contending team. On the Wiz he can carve out an Niche as a productive 8pt, 6 rpg type of guy in limited minutes off the bench (20 mpg or so) (he didn't just get drafted and was thrown out there like you stated).

The Spurs really hadn't had a solid core of bigs sense the Duncan, Rasho, Horry, Mohammad. After trading Rasho for Bonner, letting Mohammad walk to Detroit, and not resigning Horry after our 4th title in 07. We signed Elson and then traded him for Thomas. There was never a true need for a stocked big man corp. Our money went else where and with Duncan healthy we could count on him to eat up about a 3 of those minutes himself. It more or less was dictated on our opposition. We moved Rasho for Bonner to counter Dirk (sounds odds) we moved Elson for Thomas who was a more phyical big to matchup with Pau and Bynum. We moved Thomas and Oberto along with Bowen for a scoring wing to eliviate Manu's Duncan's scoring responsibility and give Parker help while he lead the team in scoring. Blar came in as a second rounder (after sliding because of after concerns about his knees. He earned minutes that were vacated and would have been filled else where had we not drafted him. We could have signed a couple of bigs on minimum deals instead. He valuable piece, averaging 7pts, and 7 rebounds in 18 mpg.

He has shown nice improvement over his career and if players like Reggie Evans can be in demand despite not having any offensive game whatsoever. Blair can have a solid career as an effective scorer and boarder. My initial argument was his value was about $3 million a season, that seems more than fair. If you take a look at PF/Cs who had similar P.E.R's over the first four seasons of his career, I'm confident that number is more than fair.

I think you're understating his value over the past four seasons. As a 20 minutes a game type of guy who could be penciled in for 80 games. Eating minutes for an older team is an necessity, being productive in those minutes is an added bonus that he provided. His lack of playoff experience isn't a really a con. He was meant to eat up minutes during the season, to keep older bigs fresh. Also playoff match-ups dictated certain adjustments.

He also hasn't sulked. He talked about losing his starting spot and was frustrated. He requested a trade after he fell out of the rotation (fairly common). He then dropped 30 lbs, worked on his mid range game and reported to camp in the best shape of his career. Pop later called him a true professional.

He knew were to be on offense, defense not so much. He compensated with using his quick hands that forces turnovers and plenty of deflections allowing others to get into the fast break. Washington need players to fill roles. They had plenty of guys who went for their own numbers at the sake of the teams success (Young, Blatche, Crawford) they are all gone. Okafor and Ariza are there for Defense and vet leadership. Nene is there for a post presence (even though he has only one, that quick spin baseline) they need a guy who knows his role and can produce within that role. He certainly has that experience with S.A.

Anyway, I'm sure we both can agree it would be nice to get a something in return to help the Spurs next season.

[cd021]

playblair, just admit it:

http://i500.listal.com/image/3658774/500full.jpg

You got nothing.

Thats pretty damn funny.

[Darkwaters]

When he was drafted. He replaced Oberto and Thomas who were traded for RJ. The Spurs then used the MLE on Mcdyess. Blair only averaged about 18mpg in the 09-10 season. He came off the bench with with Bonner or McDyess.


If I implied that he'd started that first game then I apologize. I realize that such things didn't really come to pass until year 2.

My point was that the main reason that he was even in the rotation was because the Spurs were critically short on bigs, having just moved two away. And McDyess, as good as he was, couldn't be counted on as a minutes eater. This made Blair more relevant than he might otherwise have been.



He added a floater to get off his shot in the paint over bigger players while receiving the ball in the P&R.


A valid point.

While I credited him with the floater in my above post, it is true that it is something hes added since college. However, I still stand that outside the addition of that floater I've seen basically no improvement or growth out of the guy. It just isn't there.



He also the rim to shield his layups.


I never said he wasn't a competent post scorer. In fact, I absolutely credited him with that.



He jumper was better and actually knocked them down in games.


I'm calling bullshit here. Yes, hes made a few jumpers. In a similar fashion, Tim Duncan has drilled some 3's. But neither of those players can consistently do either.




He also converted on a career high in Free throw %.


65%. Seriously, your praising someone that shot 65% from the line...two years ago. By the way, his numbers went down again since then. 63% last season. Yea, I'm not buying what you're selling here either.



On the Wiz he can carve out an Niche as a productive 8pt, 6 rpg type of guy in limited minutes off the bench (20 mpg or so)

Probably. I've always said he'd do best on a bad team like the Wizards. And I have no doubt of his ability to score and rebound. It's just his total lack of ability to guard even a paper sack that concerns me the most.

PS: And please don't say that the Wizards aren't a bad team because they "will probably be the 8 Seed next year." They're in the East. The 7 and 8 seed are usually reserved for teams with losing records. It's not an accomplishment out East.




The Spurs really hadn't had a solid core of bigs sense the Duncan, Rasho, Horry, Mohammad.


Agreed. And this shortfall created an opportunity for Blair to come in and play a lot of minutes. At least...regular season ones.




He has shown nice improvement over his career and if players like Reggie Evans can be in demand despite not having any offensive game whatsoever. Blair can have a solid career as an effective scorer and boarder.


A fair assessment and a good comparison. But Reggie Evans is a better rebounder than Blair (he averaged over 16 RPG per 36M compared to Blair who was under 10). Although Blair definitely has a much more advanced offensive game in just about every way. Still, while Evans' defense isn't anything special, he still eclipses Blair. But if Blair could carve out an Evans kind of career he'd be well served.



I think you're understating his value over the past four seasons. As a 20 minutes a game type of guy who could be penciled in for 80 games.

Every GM worth their salt is going to be concerned over his knees. I understand they haven't been an issue to date, but it will always be concerning.




His lack of playoff experience isn't a really a con.


So the fact that, despite 36 playoff games over 4 seasons, the team has never seen fit to give a sizeable role in a playoff run isn't an issue? No, I think thats indicative of what he brings and doesn't bring to the table.

But again, I've always said that hes best served on a bad team. If playoffs don't matter then a team that won't make the playoffs, or at least, won't win many of those games, seems ideal.



Also playoff match-ups dictated certain adjustments.

So over 36 games the matchups dictated that he should be on the bench? It would seem that his utility is pretty limited then.



He also hasn't sulked.


Well that just isn't true at all. It was pretty plain to see once he lost his starting job.



He knew were to be on offense, defense not so much. He compensated with using his quick hands that forces turnovers and plenty of deflections allowing others to get into the fast break.


Granted. Hes done an okay job causing deflections. But gambling on steals typically isn't considered good defense.



Washington need players to fill roles.

He certainly has that experience with S.A.


Agreed. He could be a decent role player for them. I'm not saying he isn't an NBA player. I'm just saying that hes an incredibly limited role player that would be best served on a bad team. And he also isn't a guy you pay much more than the minimum for. He just isn't worth it considering his height and total defensive liabilities as well as ever-present knee concerns.



Anyway, I'm sure we both can agree it would be nice to get a something in return to help the Spurs next season.

Absolutely. If someone wants to pay for him then more power to him. I just don't think hes worth it. And I also stand that the facts back me up as well. But, it's obviously not an exact science and open to interpretation. I just think yours isn't right.

[look_at_g_shred]

23 pages of nothing :lol

[slick'81]

Yeah think these discussions r dead for now

[Bruno]

In theory, Neal QO being withdrawn could trigger a Blair S&T. Spurs could have put the talks with Washington on hold while there were uncertainties around Neal.

And even if it's possible, it isn't the most likely scenario at all.

[playblair]

In theory, Neal QO being withdrawn could trigger a Blair S&T. Spurs could have put the talks with Washington on hold while there were uncertainties around Neal.

And even if it's possible, it isn't the most likely scenario at all.

translate this ...............................

http://ask.fm/CelticsSpa/answer/54553849139

[Kindergarten Cop]

translate this ...............................

http://ask.fm/CelticsSpa/answer/54553849139

Basically the poster was asking if they would have been better off signing Blair (because he is younger and has more experience in the league) instead of Faverani. To which the other replied that only time will tell who is better, but Faverani is a 6'11" center and Blair is a 6'6" PF (which they have enough of).

[Sean Cagney]

23 pages of nothing :lol

Yep, let it go..... Done, period.

[playblair]

Basically the poster was asking if they would have been better off signing Blair (because he is younger and has more experience in the league) instead of Faverani. To which the other replied that only time will tell who is better, but Faverani is a 6'11" center and Blair is a 6'6" PF (which they have enough of).

props...................

[DrunkTXLabrat]

http://www.hoopsworld.com/bulls-clippers-interested-in-dejuan-blair

i'm crossing my fingers for blair+bonner for ariza. but... draft rights or a spare late 1st/2nd?

[playblair]

^ the clippers have been heavily interested in blair since the beginning of free agency ................ rumor on twitter is blair will sign with wizards (friend of blair)

[Bruno]

A possibility would be that Spurs and Wizards have agreed in principle to two different S&T and which one will be done will depend if Spurs get or not Oden.

[xmas1997]

A possibility would be that Spurs and Wizards have agreed in principle to two different S&T and which one will be done will depend if Spurs get or not Oden.

Another reason I wish the Oden wait would finalize.

[playblair]

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