Spurs withdraw qualifying offer to Neal

[Gino-Step]

Per Marc Stein:

"San Antonio in process of withdrawing qualifying offer to Gary Neal, making Neal an unrestricted free agent and sure to speed exit"

[loveforthegame]

Does this mean a sign and trade is out now?

[BatManu20]

See ya, Gary

359756564942430209

359757222156304385

[spurraider21]

Does this mean a sign and trade is out now?
Yes, for a sign and trade involving Neal.
If his market is really that shitty this doesn't rule out the spurs signing him at an amount lower than the QO

[Spurs Brazil]

@ESPNSteinLine
All signals suggest that Gary Neal, after strong play in NBA Finals, sure to be snapped up quickly once he becomes unrestricted free agent

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

Thanks for the great moments in the finals, Neal.

Will never forget the buzzer beater against the Griz either.

[TheGreatYacht]

Damn it, this more than likely means that the FO has given up on S&T's. Staying pat. The norm, unless they pick Greg Oden or wait till the trade deadline to make some moves.

[BatManu20]

359757812638810112

[TE]

Hallelujah my lord tbh

[TheyCallMePro]

NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bklynspursfan]

@AminESPN (https://twitter.com/AminESPN): Re: @ESPNSteinLine (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine) report about Gary Neal: expect the Heat to be interested”

[MeloHype]

:cry

[lefty]

Fuck yes

[loveforthegame]

I guess we'll know where he's signing soon.

[illusioNtEk]

damn, we should stay witht he same team, neal is good! :(

[bklynspursfan]

Go to Atlanta, Gary!

[Gino-Step]

Fuck yes

2nd that. this is so awesome.

[spurraider21]

Heat? Thunder? Rockets?

Hed be filthy on the rockets

[Splits]

Welcome, Oden

[Vic Petro]

This was inevitable at this point but I admit I'd hate to see him on the Heat.

[loveforthegame]

Too bad the Spurs couldn't get something in return.

[BatManu20]

My bet is Houston or Miami. Imagine him killing us w/ the Heat next year if the Spurs somehow face Miami in the Finals again..

http://i.imgur.com/N98UhL3.png

[DPG21920]

What benefit at all do the Spurs have for doing this? They don't need cap space, aren't near the LT and now lost the right to do any S&T. If they didn't want to do a S&T they simply could have not matched the offer. Am I missing something?

[Budkin]

Damn I'm having mixed emotions. Anyone know what this means for our roster? Are we signing someone?

[rjv]

the timing of this move will fuel speculation about oden

[look_at_g_shred]

Fuck!!!!!!!!! Will miss you Neal.

[BatManu20]

Still don't think Oden comes here. Would be shocked tbh. Miami and New Orleans seem like far better options.

[Baam]

I hope he does well wherever he goes, fuck pop and fuck the FO overpaying soft underachieving POS like T-Vag and Bonner instead.

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

I think this signals Oden to the Spurs. I bet the Spurs don't give Oden the min though.

[TheGreatYacht]

Damn I'm having mixed emotions. Anyone know what this means for our roster? Are we signing someone?
Damn it, this more than likely means that the FO has given up on S&T's. Staying pat. The norm, unless they pick Greg Oden or wait till the trade deadline to make some moves.

[look_at_g_shred]

Still don't think Oden comes here. Would be shocked tbh. Miami and New Orleans seem like far better options.

If you listen closely, his knees are screaming, "Spurs...please pick the Spurs!!"

[TheGreatYacht]

I think this signals Oden to the Spurs. I bet the Spurs don't give Oden the min though.I thought the Spurs were out of cap space therefore allowing them to offer nothing more than a minimum to a FA am I right?

[McGusto55]

Good...

[spurraider21]

Just making space for Denmon

:wakeup

[toki9]

What benefit at all do the Spurs have for doing this? They don't need cap space, aren't near the LT and now lost the right to do any S&T. If they didn't want to do a S&T they simply could have not matched the offer. Am I missing something?

Maybe they're doing it so that it would open up market for Neal and help him along...sounds like the team has decided not to bring Neal back, so maybe they figured it'd be best for all to expedite a resolution by helping him out?

[rjv]

neal will be missed less than we thought, unless marco b really lays an egg, which i highly doubt will happen

[Bruno]

For people wondering about the timing:
http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q115


July 23 Last day to withdraw a qualifying offer to a restricted free agent without the player's consent

[McGusto55]

Damm Budkin your avtar makes me want to cry..

...

[Darkwaters]

What benefit at all do the Spurs have for doing this? They don't need cap space, aren't near the LT and now lost the right to do any S&T. If they didn't want to do a S&T they simply could have not matched the offer. Am I missing something?

No, I'm with you. The only advantage would be that his cap hold is lifted. But that's a totally moot point now. So what benefit do they get out of this?

Maybe teams have been wary of offering a contract to him thinking the Spurs might match. Perhaps this is a way of helping him out and allowing him to sign more quickly? That's the only thing I can figure.

Or maybe they're worried that he might have signed the qualifying offer? Although, that'd be a really good bargain if he signed it.

[Bruno]

Spurs were bluffing when RC they were fine with re-signing Neal at a reasonable price. Other GMs haven't been tricked by that and none offered a good S&T for Spurs. Spurs folded just before keeping the QO for Neal would have been a more serious engagement.

Now, it will be interested to see how much money Neal will get. The Belinelli signing was in part justified by Neal being more expensive to keep.

[spurraider21]

They probably are out of S&T scenarios with Neal so they cut him loose

[Bruno]

What benefit at all do the Spurs have for doing this? They don't need cap space, aren't near the LT and now lost the right to do any S&T. If they didn't want to do a S&T they simply could have not matched the offer. Am I missing something?

Neal could ahve end up signing the QO which would cost Spurs $1.1M.

[lurker23]

For people wondering about the timing:
http://www.cbafaq.com/salarycap.htm#Q115

Thanks Bruno. That explains an awful lot. :tu

Pretty much an indication of what many of us suspected...they probably weren't horribly interested in bringing him back, but wanted to leave options open in case a S&T came up, or he ended up signing a cheap contract.

[Reeko_Htown]

I hope we can sign him. Would be a great 6th man backup to Harden.

[Holden_Caulfield]

does this mean we are getting oden?!?! extra roster space!!

[keywester]

If Neal is gone, who is going to be the designated gunner? I can't see De Colo or Cojo taking up the slack. I guess it'll be Mills?

[benefactor]

Grande Beli will erase all memory of Neal.

[justinandimcool]

Will be missed. That Clippers tying 3 to force overtime was the best moment I've ever seen live, other than Dwight's ejection.

[cd98]

I have mixed feelings about Neal leaving. My main question is why if he only cost 1.1 million, why let him walk and keep De Colo and Mills. As limited as Neal is, I think he's better than those two, even as a back up point guard. Especially when he's really the back up to the back up point guard as CoJo is the real back up point guard.

[Juggity]

Sad to see him go, but he can make an impact for another team. Good luck Gary, you acquitted yourself well during your 3 years with the spurs.

Hopefully, this signals an Oden signing or something similar

[Ditty]

Welcome Greg Oden :lobt2:

[MeloHype]

359766400966995968

[spurraider21]

Haven't renounced Blair yet...

[ducks]

spurs should cut del co or trade him for a second round pick and sign Thomas and oden

[Budkin]

Hopefully this good news on Oden.

[Hoops Czar]

What benefit at all do the Spurs have for doing this? They don't need cap space, aren't near the LT and now lost the right to do any S&T. If they didn't want to do a S&T they simply could have not matched the offer. Am I missing something?

Maybe the organization values De Crapo and Mills more.

[baseline bum]

Damn, hate losing Neal. :(

[ducks]

Maybe the organization values De Crapo and Mills more.

dude they are less $$$$$$$$$$$$


neal will get paid IMO

[Mugen]

Good news tbh.

[Hoops Czar]

dude they are less $$$$$$$$$

neal will get paid IMO

My point was two wasted roster spots. Neal is better than both. If he chooses the Heat or Rockets, he won't get more than what the Spurs offered.

[timtonymanu]

I will always be a fan of Neal, but this is good news. His defense was just unacceptable. Thanks for your services, Gary. Now don't sign with Miami or OKC.

[chrhawk]

Neal is ass as a defender and as a ball-handler. But when healthy, he is a sixth-man caliber scorer. As the Finals showed us, you can never have enough shooting on your roster. Can't say I'm happy to see him go.

[DPG21920]

Neal could ahve end up signing the QO which would cost Spurs $1.1M.

Ya, which in theory, would be a great value for Neal. I can't believe they would so badly not want Neal back that they were scared of the above scenario.

This off season has been quite bad so far and made very little overall sense.

[DPG21920]

It just makes no sense. If he gets an offer too high, just simply let him walk or get a Trade Exception if you don't like the players. You really can't be that scared of him taking the QO because at that money, it's a great deal.

[playblair]

Heat? Thunder? Rockets?

Hed be filthy on the rockets

word gary neal on the heat or thunder = frighting ........................ open 3's galore...............................

[benefactor]

I doubt he signs for the minimum. He's already been doing that and he turns 29 this year. Time to get paid.

[CGD]

Are they still able to facilitate a S&T? Do the Spurs retain his Bird rights as in the case of Blair?

Unless they sign someone else soon, I dont really get the move tbh. Sure they save 1.1M but that's a cheap asset to keep on the books until Feb 2014 when the Spurs can use Neal to sweeten a deadline deal. It's not like they'd be on the hook after this year.

[DPG21920]

I doubt he signs for the minimum. He's already been doing that and he turns 29 this year. Time to get paid.

So why were teams not making an offer? If they really felt Spurs would not retain him, why not make him an offer knowing that and force the Spurs to either retain a guy at a price they likely don't want, let him walk or engage in a S&T for at least a TE if you really want Neal?

[benefactor]

So why were teams not making an offer? If they really felt Spurs would not retain him, why not make him an offer knowing that and force the Spurs to either retain a guy at a price they likely don't want, let him walk or engage in a S&T for at least a TE if you really want Neal?
They knew when the QO cut off date was just like the Spurs did. There was no reason to make an offer and jump through any sort of hoops when they could just wait until today when the Spurs had to make a choice. Now they can just cut out the middle man with no worries.

[cd98]

They knew when the QO cut off date was just like the Spurs did. There was no reason to make an offer and jump through any sort of hoops when they could just wait until today when the Spurs had to make a choice. Now they can just cut out the middle man with no worries.


Yes, but some takers can't sign him outright unless he just takes the minimum. With the S&T, he had more potential buyers.

[slick'81]

Good bye Gary nice knowing u

[yavozerb]

Yes, but some takers can't sign him outright unless he just takes the minimum. With the S&T, he had more potential buyers.

Well, maybe some of those buyers were teams that offered garbage in return or simply a team the spurs did not want neal to be a part of.

[benefactor]

Yes, but some takers can't sign him outright unless he just takes the minimum. With the S&T, he had more potential buyers.
...and those teams that can't sign him outright have to send something back if they are over the cap. Seems like there wasn't much the Spurs were interested in.

[T Park]

They knew when the QO cut off date was just like the Spurs did. There was no reason to make an offer and jump through any sort of hoops when they could just wait until today when the Spurs had to make a choice. Now they can just cut out the middle man with no worries.

Pretty much this.

[Budkin]

I will always be a fan of Neal, but this is good news. His defense was just unacceptable. Thanks for your services, Gary. Now don't sign with Miami or OKC.

That fucking shoeless Miller 3 he allowed ended up contributing to the heartbreaking loss.

[ace3g]

That fucking shoeless Miller 3 he allowed ended up contributing to the heartbreaking loss.

He also essentially let Chalmers walk into that 3 at the buzzer to end 3rd quarter that put the Heat up 1 instead of down 2 heading into 4th quarter...

[CGD]

Fairly annoyed that the Spurs couldn't turn Blair/Neal into something more valuable. It's not like they even gained cap-space to sign another player. I guess there is still time, but those are fairly decent assets to just let walk.

[yavozerb]

When are spur fans not annoyed with something? Just chalk up something else to complain about..

[cd98]

...and those teams that can't sign him outright have to send something back if they are over the cap. Seems like there wasn't much the Spurs were interested in.

I'm sure that is the case. Obviously if they were offering something the Spurs wanted, a sign and trade would have happened. Just saying that a lot of these teams, like Miami, probably aren't a candidate for Neal given that they are well over the luxury tax and he's unlikely to sign for the minimum. That said, not many people can afford more than that.

[TDomination]

He also essentially let Chalmers walk into that 3 at the buzzer to end 3rd quarter that put the Heat up 1 instead of down 2 heading into 4th quarter...

And if he just stands in front of him, Chalmers misses, spurs up 2 and Duncan is going for a lead when he missed instead of a tie.

ugh, it still hurts :(

but anyways, I will miss Neal. I loved that he always showed no fear in shooting the ball. The moment was never too big for him. Though he had his defects, he was all we could have asked for, especially for that salary.

[Capt Bringdown]

That fucking shoeless Miller 3 he allowed ended up contributing to the heartbreaking loss.

Ugh...just when I had almost erased that play from memory. Who am I kidding, 2013 will forever haunt Spurs fans :(

[TheGreatYacht]

So why is all this talking going on? Everything is clear as water. The FO was not interested in the proposals (if you're one of them folks that has blind faith in the FO) for Neal or the FO has failed in their S&T negotiations with Blair & Neal. However one wants to view things, it's time to move on. No need to speculate on what should of or would of happened. To the next subject.

[wildbill2u]

I think it means that Thomas may be given a shot to make the roster because of his shooting in the SL. I thought he'd be shipped overseas.

[chrhawk]

He also essentially let Chalmers walk into that 3 at the buzzer to end 3rd quarter that put the Heat up 1 instead of down 2 heading into 4th quarter...

Yeah that was bad. It basically killed all of the momentum they had ending the 3rd quarter.

[ace3g]

Following the Chalmers shot

http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/22/24/76/4804510/23/rawImage.jpg

[superbigtime]

Master plan.

[TheGreatYacht]

Following the Chalmers shot

http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/22/24/76/4804510/23/rawImage.jpg
^:lol I wish Pop would of had that reaction on Manu for every turnover in Game 6.

[tenbeersbold]

I'll miss Bill Land and his "Towson Triple" tbh

What player gave us bigger shots on that kinda salary???

NONE and for that Neal will always be a fave Spur of mine,Neal was the ultimate underdog

Damn we just lost possibly the BEST pure shooter on the team

[slick'81]

Pop to neal- really?! Lol

[ace3g]

I like Neal as well but he will always be a situational player because he can't play defense.

Part of the reason our rotations have shortened the past 2 years in the WCF and Finals is because of too many situational players. We need more players that can play both sides of the court.

Unsure if Belinelli and our other acquisitions can be more than that, but we needed a change.

[Sean Cagney]

I'll miss Bill Land and his "Towson Triple" tbh

What player gave us bigger shots on that kinda salary???

NONE and for that Neal will always be a fave Spur of mine,Neal was the ultimate underdog

Damn we just lost possibly the BEST pure shooter on the teamWith horrible shot selection at times and his bad D on the other side which evened out his shooting.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

i like this news. let neal get his payday. please dump the turd towers too. no more defensive liability guys!

i will say neal was my favorite shit defender. unlike blair, it doesn't matter that he can't block or out-rebound his man. and unlike bonner, neal made em' when they mattered.

but "in the end..." the 3's you make, ain't equal to the defensive shit... you take.

[Budkin]

Ugh...just when I had almost erased that play from memory. Who am I kidding, 2013 will forever haunt Spurs fans :(

Yeah I'm finding it just a tad easier if I accept it for what it is and focus on the upcoming season. Woulda coulda shoulda.

[slick'81]

Yeah I'm finding it just a tad easier if I accept it for what it is and focus on the upcoming season. Woulda coulda shoulda.

Yup its like a bad breakup you go over all the things you coulda changed but in the end the bitch is gone .gotta move on

[tenbeersbold]

i like this news. let neal get his payday. please dump the turd towers too. no more defensive liability guys!

i will say neal was my favorite shit defender. unlike blair, it doesn't matter that he can't block or out-rebound his man. and unlike bonner, neal made em' when they mattered.

but "in the end..." the 3's you make, ain't equal to the defensive shit... you take.
LOL! You guys expect everyone to be a damn lock down defender

TP and Manu were awful on defense this year along w/ Blair,Mills etc

Neals gonna get paid and its too bad it wasn't the Spurs cause this team has some shaky shooting

And fer chrissakes Bonner is still here...

[Humberto]

Going to miss Gary on the fastbreak, he was a good pull up shooter from mid range. Now we may see more passes going to Danny Green on the break... Danny Green layups :lol

http://gifrific.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Tim-Duncan-Rubs-Gary-Neals-Head-Gm-3-2013-NBA-Finals.gif

[Johnsyounger]

For all the hate for Gary, im sad to see him go. He could shoot and was fearless no matter if he was 0-6 or 6-6. Good luck...

[chrhawk]

Following the Chalmers shot

http://ww3.hdnux.com/photos/22/24/76/4804510/23/rawImage.jpg

http://mememaker.org/wp-content/themes/viralimagehubpro/images/memes/ed9161a78f476d103d502f737f441eeb.png

[spurraider21]

I sorta wish pattty opted out and we kept Neal for the QO

[DesignatedT]

I love Gary and all and I'm not trashing him when I say this, but I'm glad he's gone. His time was wearing out here quick. He had a horrible season.

Looks like Blair's the lone hope for a S&T

[Texas_Ranger]

nice to see one of the guys that have balls on the team go. Good luck Gary.

[therealtruth]

i like this news. let neal get his payday. please dump the turd towers too. no more defensive liability guys!

i will say neal was my favorite shit defender. unlike blair, it doesn't matter that he can't block or out-rebound his man. and unlike bonner, neal made em' when they mattered.

but "in the end..." the 3's you make, ain't equal to the defensive shit... you take.

This. We're getting rid of our defensive liabilities. Blair is about gone. Now Neal. No more gifting teams easy baskets.

[mountainballer]

dozens S&Ts of minor bench players that delivered stars in the making this summer, but the Spurs couldn't get it done.
I give you a list:
.
.
.
wait...ok, nevermind.

[mountainballer]

Neal was gone the day Beli signed. that's a good move. Beli's upside in the Spurs system might be higher and the worst case should be, that he just delivers the same what Neal provided.
Neal was a great deal considering the money he got. he is likely seeking a mini MLE type deal. hope he gets it somewhere. but at that price he isn't a god deal any longer. Spurs know that.

[ElNono]

Good luck Gary wherever you go. Hope you get paid.

[DPG21920]

They knew when the QO cut off date was just like the Spurs did. There was no reason to make an offer and jump through any sort of hoops when they could just wait until today when the Spurs had to make a choice. Now they can just cut out the middle man with no worries.

Interesting. If you like a player, you are running a decent risk that he signs with someone else if you wait. Plus, if you call the Spurs bluff and are wrong, you could miss out. Just interesting to me to see the Spurs do this is all.

[MannyIsGod]

DPG not sure why you don't think it makes sense. 1 million is still a lot of money in the end to a small market team and to say that Neal would have been redundant on this team would have been putting it mildly. I thought it was far more surprising that RC said they might keep him.

Maybe if the Spurs had deep pockets it wouldn't make as much sense but the fact is they don't.

[icango]

i will miss neal and blair (when he's finally gone) but the bench as we speak is not better. all our future international player are hurt. just like to be a fly on the wall in the FO.

[Buddy Mignon]

My bet is Houston or Miami. Imagine him killing us w/ the Heat next year if the Spurs somehow face Miami in the Finals again..

http://i.imgur.com/N98UhL3.png

That ain't happening.

[Texas_Ranger]

lol @ have to save that 1 million but not release Bonner and save 4.... great move.

[Budkin]

He was a chucker of the highest order but he made some huge shots. I'll miss the guy for sure.

[jermaine]

He disappeared in the wrong gms! His defense was terrible, therefore he doesn't get a pass for his disappearance. That Dude Belinelli is gonna take over his roll an succeed!

[DapDaGenius]

Can't wait for his inconsistency to drag down another team. Gonna miss SpursTalk going into a meltdown when Neal gets put into the game.

[Mal]

Good luck Gary. Hope you get paid.

[JR3]

LET'S ALL JUST NEAL WITH IT FOR THE LAST TIME!

[hater]

LOL! You guys expect everyone to be a damn lock down defender

TP and Manu were awful on defense this year along w/ Blair,Mills etc

Neals gonna get paid and its too bad it wasn't the Spurs cause this team has some shaky shooting

And fer chrissakes Bonner is still here...

:lmao

truth nuke

spursfan expects neal to be lock down ignoring the fact that TP and Manu are the worst defensive guard duo in the NBA

[Tbiggums47]

I think this signals Oden to the Spurs. I bet the Spurs don't give Oden the min though. I second that...I think Oden is in the bag...

[TheGreatYacht]

:lmao

truth nuke

spursfan expects neal to be lock down ignoring the fact that TP and Manu are the worst defensive guard duo in the NBAThis.

[anakha]

However one wants to view things, it's time to move on. No need to speculate on what should of or would of happened.

This statement is rather ironic, given your previous posts.


:lmao

truth nuke

spursfan expects neal to be lock down ignoring the fact that TP and Manu are the worst defensive guard duo in the NBA

Nash and Kobe were worse by a country mile this season. Calderon and Brandon Knight were probably the worst defensive guard duo by the end of the regular season.

[Chinook]

In case anyone is wondering, withdrawing Neal's QO does not preclude the Spurs from S&Ting him. They still have his Bird Rights. What it does is it takes away his right of first refusal, which means the Spurs have considerably less leverage to force a trade than they did before.

[TheGreatYacht]

In case anyone is wondering, withdrawing Neal's QO does not preclude the Spurs from S&Ting him. They still have his Bird Rights. What it does is it takes away his right of first refusal, which means the Spurs have considerably less leverage to force a trade than they did before.Can Bruno confirm this? He's the most knowledgeable person here on ST when it comes to CBA rules.

[tesseractive]

In case anyone is wondering, withdrawing Neal's QO does not preclude the Spurs from S&Ting him. They still have his Bird Rights. What it does is it takes away his right of first refusal, which means the Spurs have considerably less leverage to force a trade than they did before.
Thanks, I had forgotten about that, and it's pretty important.

Blair is in the same spot, right? Bird Rights, but no QO?

[Chinook]

Can Bruno confirm this? He's the most knowledgeable person here on ST when it comes to CBA rules.

Interesting. The CBA FAQ says that the Spurs lose Neal's Bird rights by rescinding their offer. Had they not tendered him at all, they would have retained his Bird rights. If they had cap space, they could trade him (like Utah can will Mo Williams), but they can't do anything else.

[Chinook]

Thanks, I had forgotten about that, and it's pretty important.

Blair is in the same spot, right? Bird Rights, but no QO?

The Spurs do have Blair's Bird Rights. They get to trade him. As I said to GTY's post, they renounced Neal as well.

[tesseractive]

Interesting. The CBA FAQ says that the Spurs lose Neal's Bird rights by rescinding their offer. Had they not tendered him at all, they would have retained his Bird rights. If they had cap space, they could trade him (like Utah can will Mo Williams), but they can't do anything else.
Wow, that's an interesting rule.

[coyotes_geek]

Interesting. The CBA FAQ says that the Spurs lose Neal's Bird rights by rescinding their offer. Had they not tendered him at all, they would have retained his Bird rights. If they had cap space, they could trade him (like Utah can will Mo Williams), but they can't do anything else.

That only applies after July 23rd. Teams retain Bird rights if they pull the QO on or before July 23.

It's buried in the footnotes on the FAQ.

On/before July 23rd: Team can pull QO without player's consent, team retains bird rights.

After July 23rd: Team must get player's consent to pull QO, team loses bird rights.

[Chinook]

That only applies after July 23rd. Teams retain Bird rights if they pull the QO on or before July 23.

It's buried in the footnotes on the FAQ.

On/before July 23rd: Team can pull QO without player's consent, team retains bird rights.

After July 23rd: Team must get player's consent to pull QO, team loses bird rights.

So they do retain his Bird Rights. Cool.

[tmtcsc]

That sucks. All the fans who are happy to see him go are going to regret it. He's instant office and a fearless shooter. He's a more explosive scorer than Beninelli. We may have gotten a little bit better defensively but it still sucks to see him go.

[Chinook]

Can Bruno confirm this? He's the most knowledgeable person here on ST when it comes to CBA rules.

EDIT: So I was right and just didn't read the CBA FAQ carefully enough the second time. They can still sign-and-trade Neal. You can thank coyotes_geek for catching that.

[Kingsly Alexander]

So we have the bird rights to Neal and Blair. Wonderful

These are players that teams covet for different reasons and have value.

I'm sure the FO are doing their best, but can we not get at least 2nd Rounders for these guys? Or at least swap our second rounder with the Wizards or a Utah?

[timvp]

Strange. As Bruno stated, RC appears to have been trying to bluff his way into a sign-and-trade. Once that didn't pan out, the Spurs were more interested in the open roster spot than bringing back a now redundant player (the only way he wasn't redundant is if the Spurs had simultaneously given up on Joseph, De Colo and Mills).

I'm still hopeful that the offseason isn't over yet but it has been an odd month.

From the outside, it looked like Neal's reps tried to bluff the Spurs with a big contract offer. The Spurs, instead of meeting the demands, simply went ahead and signed Belinelli for less than Neal was asking. Then Buford returned the favor and bluffed the NBA regarding Neal -- but nobody bit......

Now it'll be fascinating to see if he'll get more than Belinelli. I'm guessing not since most of the money around the league has been used up.





P.S.

This could have also been a going away present for Neal. By withdrawing the QO, that raised his value because now teams don't have to worry about the Spurs matching.

[Chinook]

Even a small trade exception would be a good thing to get. That would allow them to bid on players who get waived with small salaries.

[SpursRock20]

Going to miss you Neal. Will never forget these two plays...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZNKqA1DwQY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jGnJ0uUgJIw

[timtonymanu]

I would much rather have Neal than De Colo, but there isn't a situation that makes it realistic.

[Kingsly Alexander]

I like Neal as well but he will always be a situational player because he can't play defense.

Part of the reason our rotations have shortened the past 2 years in the WCF and Finals is because of too many situational players. We need more players that can play both sides of the court.

Unsure if Belinelli and our other acquisitions can be more than that, but we needed a change.

And it seems the only way were gonna get this player is if we package all our situational assets and projects and picks for an impact player.

Though its fair to mention we never have much leverage with these sort of things and the last two times we tried for this didn't work all too well i.e. Kurt Thomas and Richard Jefferson.

[DPG21920]

Strange. As Bruno stated, RC appears to have been trying to bluff his way into a sign-and-trade. Once that didn't pan out, the Spurs were more interested in the open roster spot than bringing back a now redundant player (the only way he wasn't redundant is if the Spurs had simultaneously given up on Joseph, De Colo and Mills).

I'm still hopeful that the offseason isn't over yet but it has been an odd month.

From the outside, it looked like Neal's reps tried to bluff the Spurs with a big contract offer. The Spurs, instead of meeting the demands, simply went ahead and signed Belinelli for less than Neal was asking. Then Buford returned the favor and bluffed the NBA regarding Neal -- but nobody bit......

Now it'll be fascinating to see if he'll get more than Belinelli. I'm guessing not since most of the money around the league has been used up.





P.S.

This could have also been a going away present for Neal. By withdrawing the QO, that raised his value because now teams don't have to worry about the Spurs matching.

Some people think that goodwill from team to player or vice versa does not exist.

[Baam]

Some people think that goodwill from team to player or vice versa does not exist.

Lol at goodwill when they signed Beli 5 minutes into the off season and backed themselves into a corner.

It's more like we're gonna do what it takes so that there's zero chance you remain on the team.

[coyotes_geek]

Strange. As Bruno stated, RC appears to have been trying to bluff his way into a sign-and-trade. Once that didn't pan out, the Spurs were more interested in the open roster spot than bringing back a now redundant player (the only way he wasn't redundant is if the Spurs had simultaneously given up on Joseph, De Colo and Mills).

I'm still hopeful that the offseason isn't over yet but it has been an odd month.

From the outside, it looked like Neal's reps tried to bluff the Spurs with a big contract offer. The Spurs, instead of meeting the demands, simply went ahead and signed Belinelli for less than Neal was asking. Then Buford returned the favor and bluffed the NBA regarding Neal -- but nobody bit......

Now it'll be fascinating to see if he'll get more than Belinelli. I'm guessing not since most of the money around the league has been used up.





P.S.

This could have also been a going away present for Neal. By withdrawing the QO, that raised his value because now teams don't have to worry about the Spurs matching.

Agree about Belinelli, but when it came to Neal's QO I thiknk the Spurs just didn't see a rush to make a decision on Neal's QO until they had to. Basically the Spurs just gave themselves a window of opportunity to see if some team liked Neal enough to talk offer sheet with him which would be an instant S&T conversation starter for them. No one bit, so the Spurs pull his QO which they knew they were going to do from the beginning. There was no downside to waiting, and a chance of there being an upside.

[DPG21920]

But what do you gain by pulling the QO? Unless you are really scared of him playing for 1 year, 1M?

[spurraider21]

I would much rather have Neal than De Colo, but there isn't a situation that makes it realistic.

[Chinook]

Lol at goodwill when they signed Beli 5 minutes into the off season and backed themselves into a corner.

I actually agree. If the Spurs signed Belinelli because they think he's an upgrade to Neal, that's one thing. But if they signed him simply because they thought Neal was going to be out of their price range, then that was poor judgment on their part. It's cool to be a patient franchise that doesn't rush into free agency and focuses on internal improvement, but if they jumped the gun with this situation, it sort of throws a wrench into any strategy.

[Chinook]

But what do you gain by pulling the QO? Unless you are really scared of him playing for 1 year, 1M?

It's kind of getting to that point. He may well not sign for too much more than that.

Also, perhaps this will get more teams to bid on him, which is mainly for Neal's benefit, but it could also help the Spurs out if they're willing to take a lopsided deal.

[DPG21920]

DPG not sure why you don't think it makes sense. 1 million is still a lot of money in the end to a small market team and to say that Neal would have been redundant on this team would have been putting it mildly. I thought it was far more surprising that RC said they might keep him.

Maybe if the Spurs had deep pockets it wouldn't make as much sense but the fact is they don't.

Well, tbh, nothing the Spurs have done this off season makes sense. While you might argue that 1M is a lot of money, the Spurs paid more than that to their 5th or 6th big man and Gary is a proven NBA-Level player. At that 1M he far exceeds his value and would cost about the same as any 15th person you could add to the team. The difference is he is proven and you know he is worth what you are paying.

[DPG21920]

It's kind of getting to that point. He may well not sign for too much more than that.

Also, perhaps this will get more teams to bid on him, which is mainly for Neal's benefit, but it could also help the Spurs out if they're willing to take a lopsided deal.

It makes it slightly better remembering they still have his BR's, but still does not make a ton of sense to me. I can't believe, that even with depth, they don't value Gary at 1M per year. But hey, the Spurs have had one unbelievably odd off season so who knows what they are thinking.

[coyotes_geek]

But what do you gain by pulling the QO? Unless you are really scared of him playing for 1 year, 1M?

It's not about being scared Neal would accept the QO, it's about pulling it when the Spurs could do so while retaining his Bird Rights which keeps the possibility of an S&T alive.

[TheGreatYacht]

I actually agree. If the Spurs signed Belinelli because they think he's an upgrade to Neal, that's one thing. But if they signed him simply because they thought Neal was going to be out of their price range, then that was poor judgment on their part. It's cool to be a patient franchise that doesn't rush into free agency and focuses on internal improvement, but if they jumped the gun with this situation, it sort of throws a wrench into any strategy.I've been saying this for the longest time.

[DPG21920]

It's not about being scared Neal would accept the QO, it's about pulling it when the Spurs could do so while retaining his Bird Rights which keeps the possibility of an S&T alive.

If they didn't pull it, they would still have the S&T and the option of him signing for 1M. I don't see anything gained from it unless your mindset is:

1) You under no circumstance really want him to sign that QO
2) It's a good will gesture

Nothing else makes sense IMO

[coyotes_geek]

Neal is going to make more than the QO. There was no risk to the Spurs of him accepting it. This is all about the Spurs doing what they can to keep S&T possibilities alive.

[DPG21920]

Neal is going to make more than the QO. There was no risk to the Spurs of him accepting it. This is all about the Spurs doing what they can to keep S&T possibilities alive.

So if they don't revoke the QO, they still have the S&T option though, correct? They don't have to pull it. It's only that they have to pull it now if they want to in order to keep Bird Rights. If you arent concerned about him accepting, just keep the option there and keep the S&T alive that way.

[Chinook]

If they didn't pull it, they would still have the S&T and the option of him signing for 1M. I don't see anything gained from it unless your mindset is:

1) You under no circumstance really want him to sign that QO
2) It's a good will gesture

Nothing else makes sense IMO

It is notable that once Neal were to sign his QO, he is locked into staying on the Spurs for the whole season. He's virtually untradeable due to his one-year deal. The Spurs would essentially have to keep him for the season and then let him go for free next July.

[Chinook]

So if they don't revoke the QO, they still have the S&T option though, correct? They don't have to pull it. It's only that they have to pull it now if they want to in order to keep Bird Rights. If you arent concerned about him accepting, just keep the option there and keep the S&T alive that way.

Correct.

[timvp]

I don't see anything gained from it unless your mindset is:

1) You under no circumstance really want him to sign that QO
2) It's a good will gesture

Nothing else makes sense IMO

Agreed, tbh.

Unless there's something about Neal that makes the Spurs not want him back at any cost (and that something would have to be outside of basketball), goodwill is the only other logical conclusion.

Neal on a one-year, $1 million contract would be a steal. To take away that possibility for no apparent reason makes little sense other than the Spurs just doing him a favor.

The convo could have been like this:

Neal's Rep: "We have a contract on the table for X years and X dollars. Are you guys going to match?"

RC: "No."

Rep: "Okay, well the team is hesitating in pulling the trigger because they fear you will match."

RC: "Are they interested in a sign-and-trade?"

Rep: "No."

RC: "Well, tell you what I'll do. I'll go ahead and pull the QO. Tell Gary thanks for everything."

[Ditty]

Spurs must be really confident in signing Greg Oden imo

[coyotes_geek]

If they didn't pull it, they would still have the S&T and the option of him signing for 1M. I don't see anything gained from it unless your mindset is:

1) You under no circumstance really want him to sign that QO
2) It's a good will gesture

Nothing else makes sense IMO

Making Neal unrestricted now creates value for Neal and the more value Neal has, the more potential value he has as an S&T asset. Keep Neal restricted and that just diminishes his value and probably results in him getting pissed off and signing and offer sheet which would kill the S&T possibility.

Following timvp's hypothetical conversation example to better illustrate the point:

Spurs pull the QO:

RC: So, unrestricted FA Gary, I see some team offered you $X. Any interest in an S&T?
GN: Sure.

Spurs don't pull the QO:

RC: So, restricted FA Gary, I see some team offered you something less than $X. Any interest in an S&T?
GN: Fuck you. I'm signing the offer sheet.

[cd98]

Spurs must be really confident in signing Greg Oden imo

doubt it. The last roster spot will be for a big (only Oden) or a small forward. We don't need another guard.

[hater]

Nash and Kobe were worse by a country mile this season. Calderon and Brandon Knight were probably the worst defensive guard duo by the end of the regular season.

is that really something to be proud of?

[Kindergarten Cop]

Spurs must be really confident in signing Greg Oden imo


doubt it. The last roster spot will be for a big (only Oden) or a small forward. We don't need another guard.

:wtf

[spurraider21]

is that really something to be proud of?

hater, you gna stick with the Neal avatar? you've had that same one for quite some time

[KaiRMD1]

I feel as though this may not be a good thing but what do I know, I'm just a billionaire

[anakha]

is that really something to be proud of?

Did I say anything like that at all?

Just pointing out that your assertion that Parker and Ginobili were the worst defensive guard duo in the league was wrong.

[Dverde]

Neal had his warts especially on defense, but he could hit a big shot. Wish him well.

[Sean Cagney]

Neal had his warts especially on defense, but he could hit a big shot. Wish him well.

I hated the way POP used him as the backup PG, that part there was not his fault obviously but he is a spot up shooter and he was misused as a backup PG. He will be a very good spot up shooter for a team, hopefully not one we meet in the playoffs and he lights us up lol. I just hope if we play against him we exploit his horrible D, that would be a advantage the Spurs know about first hand and how to attack him.

[Libri]

Strange. As Bruno stated, RC appears to have been trying to bluff his way into a sign-and-trade. Once that didn't pan out, the Spurs were more interested in the open roster spot than bringing back a now redundant player (the only way he wasn't redundant is if the Spurs had simultaneously given up on Joseph, De Colo and Mills).

I'm still hopeful that the offseason isn't over yet but it has been an odd month.

From the outside, it looked like Neal's reps tried to bluff the Spurs with a big contract offer. The Spurs, instead of meeting the demands, simply went ahead and signed Belinelli for less than Neal was asking. Then Buford returned the favor and bluffed the NBA regarding Neal -- but nobody bit......

Now it'll be fascinating to see if he'll get more than Belinelli. I'm guessing not since most of the money around the league has been used up.






P.S.

This could have also been a going away present for Neal. By withdrawing the QO, that raised his value because now teams don't have to worry about the Spurs matching.

Thanks.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

:lmao

truth nuke

spursfan expects neal to be lock down ignoring the fact that TP and Manu are the worst defensive guard duo in the NBA

and tenbeersbold

truth nuke my ass...

i'm not expecting neal to be a lockdown defender. i'm expecting his replacement, beli, will be an upgrade. maybe not as a shooter. but def as a ball handler and defender.

i'm not pullin up the stats... but i watched the games. i'm confident enough to say bonner had his best year defense and rebounding-wise. and still, i called for bonners head too. so the spurs could make way for pittman or oden. or any other big who can actually defend like a big. without years of patience.

and manu and tp. gimme a break. manu's problem is turnovers and health. he's a total post man pick pocket and passing lane hawk. tp? yeah, okay, maybe. but i don't think of defensive pg, on spurs, as a defensive position anyway. all he's gotta do... don't get blown by. and traffic signal the opposition towards off hand and/or into timmy.

[TheGreatYacht]

I hated the way POP used him as the backup PG, that part there was not his fault obviously but he is a spot up shooter and he was misused as a backup PG. He will be a very good spot up shooter for a team, hopefully not one we meet in the playoffs and he lights us up lol. I just hope if we play against him we exploit his horrible D, that would be a advantage the Spurs know about first hand and how to attack him.More than likely the one matching up with Neat would be Danny Green and Manu or Belli off the bench. We all know that Danny can't exploit matchups because he can't play on the block. Looks like the task would be up to Manu off the bench unless Gary's new team decides to play his as a PG as well which I doubt. Add to the fact that Pop is not the type of coach that likes to exploit matchups since he's won't deviate from his system for one bit.
and tenbeersbold (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=24310)

truth nuke my ass...

i'm not expecting neal to be a lockdown defender. i'm expecting his replacement, beli, will be an upgrade. maybe not as a shooter. but def as a ball handler and defender.

i'm not pullin up the stats... but i watched the games. i'm confident enough to say bonner had his best year defense and rebounding-wise. and still, i called for bonners head too. so the spurs could make way for pittman or oden. or any other big who can actually defend like a big. without years of patience. I agree. I've been a little high on Dexter Pittman. He looked like a solid rebounder and rim protector at the SL. Greg Oden is a no-brainer for the minimum contract.


and manu and tp. gimme a break. manu's problem is turnovers and health. he's a total post man pick pocket and passing lane hawk. He used to be, when he was in his prime. Not anymore. His help defense was terrible all year long because he fouled a lot trying to swap the ball away.
tp? yeah, okay, maybe. but i don't think of defensive pg, on spurs, as a defensive position anyway. all he's gotta do... don't get blown by. and traffic signal the opposition towards off hand and/or into timmy. I agree. Danny Green is our specialist in defending PG's.

[DrunkTXLabrat]

Agreed, tbh.

Unless there's something about Neal that makes the Spurs not want him back at any cost (and that something would have to be outside of basketball), goodwill is the only other logical conclusion.

Neal on a one-year, $1 million contract would be a steal. To take away that possibility for no apparent reason makes little sense other than the Spurs just doing him a favor.

The convo could have been like this:

Neal's Rep: "We have a contract on the table for X years and X dollars. Are you guys going to match?"

RC: "No."

Rep: "Okay, well the team is hesitating in pulling the trigger because they fear you will match."

RC: "Are they interested in a sign-and-trade?"

Rep: "No."

RC: "Well, tell you what I'll do. I'll go ahead and pull the QO. Tell Gary thanks for everything."

this!

[heyheymymy]

damn this makes me think bailing on neal is gonna come back to haunt us. he can hit a huge shot and just our luck it'll be against us when it counts.

im gonna miss him, loved his huge 3's. clippers game, grizz game, and of course the finals game when he and green went off. it was just plain fun watching him go off. frustrating when he went cold. but great when he was hitting.

[Sean Cagney]

damn this makes me think bailing on neal is gonna come back to haunt us. he can hit a huge shot and just our luck it'll be against us when it counts.

im gonna miss him, loved his huge 3's. clippers game, grizz game, and of course the finals game when he and green went off. it was just plain fun watching him go off. frustrating when he went cold. but great when he was hitting.
Do not forget as well he will take the ill advised rushed shot after he hits one and it fuels a run to the other basket, that can be a huge advantage as well! He can hit some shots as you mentioned yes, but he is a bad defender and his long threes out of the flow of the game can spark the other team.

[spurraider21]

neal for 1 million is a bargain man

[HI-FI]

will miss Choo Choo, but hopefully things work out great for him and Spurs. That Dude Bellinelli will be a good, if not better, replacement imo.

[spurraider21]

Houston should pick and Neal and claim Mike Miller tbh

[Obstructed_View]

Good luck to Gary. He was far better than I ever thought he'd be.

[Strategic]

Pop did the best he could trying to organize helter skelter. Wish him only the best.

[jag]

http://www.gurl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Dawson_Crying.gif

[jag]

It's too bad the Spurs couldn't keep him, but the writing was on the wall as soon as Belinelli was signed. Despite his flaws on the defensive end, a healthy Neal is still one of the best shooters in the NBA. And his underrated ability to shoot off the dribble separates him from a lot of "specialist" spot-up shooters around the league. For three years of service he was paid a total of $2.14MM. Dude was a hell of a find.

[exstatic]

I think it means that Thomas may be given a shot to make the roster because of his shooting in the SL. I thought he'd be shipped overseas.

Spurs often leave spot #15 open for contingencies.

[PlayNando]

Thanks for the great moments in the finals, Neal.

Will never forget the buzzer beater against the Griz either.
Most overrated shot ever, tbh. Shit got us nowhere except bounced in the first round.

I hope the Hero doesn't let the door hit his booty on his way out of town, tbh. The Chucker won't be missed.

EXIT NEAL.

ENTER BELLI.

BELLI >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> neal.

WORD................

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

Most overrated shot ever, tbh. Shit got us nowhere except bounced in the first round.

I hope the Hero doesn't let the door hit his booty on his way out of town, tbh. The Chucker won't be missed.

EXIT NEAL.

ENTER BELLI.

BELLI >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> neal.

WORD................

Beli chucks too tbh

[dallasmaverickslose]

Best of luck to you Neal, thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to this team!

[Sean Cagney]

Im upset that he could not have left with a Ring this year being he did shoot the lights out in game 5 of the finals, but honestly I guess it was meant to be and he had his on and off nights and some of his plays on D baffled me and gave the other team momentum (Shoe off Miller and the Chalmers three tbh stand out). He gave and took away, his D was horrible and his shot selection bad at times, but he could light it up if he got hot thats for sure.

[td4mvp2k]

:tu thomas on da team

[team-work]

Neal had his moments in SA, and these solidify his place in the NBA. Depending on how his replacements pant out, his shots may be missed. Otherwise his departure helps ease the log-jam at the guard position, and hopefully the D would improve, which is a key for return to the Finals.

[unforeseen]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b398/heat_fusion/NrgNl2C.gif

[therealtruth]

Im upset that he could not have left with a Ring this year being he did shoot the lights out in game 5 of the finals, but honestly I guess it was meant to be and he had his on and off nights and some of his plays on D baffled me and gave the other team momentum (Shoe off Miller and the Chalmers three tbh stand out). He gave and took away, his D was horrible and his shot selection bad at times, but he could light it up if he got hot thats for sure.

I think at the stage of the NBA Finals those defensive mistakes become too costly. It's ok to give up points to a great player even though you defended them well but when you're giving up easy baskets it kills the entire team defense. I just don't see how Neal can fit on a championship level defense squad. He's easily the weakest link defensively. I am willing to score less if it means our defense will be better. Also on offense his hero ball could also detract from proper ball movement. If we're struggling to score the key isn't to start chucking shots but try to move the ball more.

[Darkwaters]

:tu thomas on da team

Why would you think that?

This could just as easily be Ryan Gomes. Or Greg Oden. Or Valilikus Pacifucic.

[K-State Spur]

Beli chucks too tbh

Shooters shoot.

That said, Belinelli does average about 20% less FGA per 36 than Neal.

[td4mvp2k]

Why would you think that? This could just as easily be Ryan Gomes. Or Greg Oden. Or Valilikus Pacifucic.:lol @ dem bums

[Kingsly Alexander]

More than likely the one matching up with Neat would be Danny Green and Manu or Belli off the bench. We all know that Danny can't exploit matchups because he can't play on the block. Looks like the task would be up to Manu off the bench unless Gary's new team decides to play his as a PG as well which I doubt. Add to the fact that Pop is not the type of coach that likes to exploit matchups since he's won't deviate from his system for one bit. I agree. I've been a little high on Dexter Pittman. He looked like a solid rebounder and rim protector at the SL. Greg Oden is a no-brainer for the minimum contract.

He used to be, when he was in his prime. Not anymore. His help defense was terrible all year long because he fouled a lot trying to swap the ball away. I agree. Danny Green is our specialist in defending PG's.

the verdict on Pittman is still out there and,we won't really know anything until training camp, which only happens of we don't sign Oden

[Samr.]

Spurs now have two roster spots open. That's all I care about.

[FireMicoHalili]

Spurs now have two roster spots open. That's all I care about.
Baynes, Splitter, Duncan, Bonner, Diaw, Pendergraph, Leonard, Belinelli, Ginobili, Green, Mills, Joseph, Parker, De Colo = 14, son

[look_at_g_shred]

Baynes, Splitter, Duncan, Bonner, Diaw, Pendergraph, Leonard, Belinelli, Ginobili, Green, Mills, Joseph, Parker, De Colo = 14, son

What are we talking about? Neal and Blair haven't gone anywhere yet.

[Chomag]

Spurs have enough shooters so I'm not worried. Now slashers on the other hand.....

[rmt]

If Belli ends up being more expensive than Neal, it'll be a bad signing. Neal is very versatile shooting - can put up points in a hurry and has had 3 years in Pop's system. I loved his versatility on offense - not just spot up 3s, pull up 3s, midrange, drive to the basket, floater, bank - soft touch and quick release which is MUCH MORE than I can say for Bonner. Also, not being afraid to shoot. Why is Bonner still on this team and Neal all but gone?

[Bruno]

I wouldn't be surprised or shocked if Spurs weren't fine with bringing back Neal, even for the vet min or for his low qualifying offer.

Neal is a player that has a big impact on the game positively and negatively. He can win a game for a team by scoring a lot of points but he can lose a game for a team with his bad defense and his questionable shot selection. There is a very thin line between being a valuable scorer and a defenseless chucker for players in Neal's mold. It's fully possible that, after having looked at what Neal has done in the last three years, especially in the playoffs, Spurs have come to the conclusion that he was doing more harm than good and just didn't want him back.

[ceperez]

If Belli ends up being more expensive than Neal, it'll be a bad signing. Neal is very versatile shooting - can put up points in a hurry and has had 3 years in Pop's system. I loved his versatility on offense - not just spot up 3s, pull up 3s, midrange, drive to the basket, floater, bank - soft touch and quick release which is MUCH MORE than I can say for Bonner. Also, not being afraid to shoot. Why is Bonner still on this team and Neal all but gone?

Why then do the Spurs still have Bonner around and not Neal????

[ca®lo]

Lets not forget, although Neal can hit a big shot, he can also give away a friggin wide open three to a shoeless miller

[StoneBuddha]

Lets not forget, although Neal can hit a big shot, he can also give away a friggin wide open three to a shoeless miller

Damn, that was frustrating in real time, but even worse thinking about now. Same goes for the entire finals actually.

[monkeypunk]

Why then do the Spurs still have Bonner around and not Neal????

Bonner can actually play passable defense for his position and the threat of his three can draw 4/5 defenders out of the lane, opening up drives.

Apples and oranges really, due to their positions.

[Bruno]

Regarding a potential S&T with Spurs for either Neal or Blair, you had to look at what teams would have the money to sign them to the salaries they are looking for (around $3M). You can rank teams in 4 categories:
- Teams that can't do a S&T or sign them to more than a min contract: Brooklyn, Chicago, Lakers, New York.
- Team's that can't do a S&T but can sign them as FA: Miami.
- Teams that can only get them through a S&T: Charlotte, Denver, Warriors, Indiana, Clippers, Minnesota, Toronto, Wizards.
- Teams that can either do a S&T or sign them with exceptions: Atlanta, Boston, Cleveland*, Dallas*, Detroit*, Houston*, Memphis, Milwaukee, New Orleans*, OKC, Orlando*, Philadelphia, Phoenix*, Portland*, Sacramento*, Utah.

Teams with an * are teams that can offer Neal or Blair about $2.6M per year which might not necessarily be enough to get them.

To sum up, the situation with the 29 other teams regarding Blair/Neal, and assuming they will find a taker at their market value, is:
- 4 teams can't get them.
- 8 teams can get them without Spurs help.
- 8 teams can only get them through a S&T.
- 9 teams are in a between situation where they might finally need a S&T.

[Vash StampedE]

Neal, Mills, Nando

I don't know how much the Spurs were paying them last season but I still would rather the Spurs have Neal over the other two.

Neal is proven clutch and I would hate him see play on another contender e.g., Houston, OKC, etc.:(

[Hoops Czar]

If Oden falls through, sign and trade Neal to Utah for Mo Williams.

[tmtcsc]

Neal is a better scorer than Mills and Nando but Nando is the better passer. I think Neal should have stayed over both those guys. He's a tough competitor whose balls didn't shrink when the Spurs needed a basket. The defensive lapses killed him though. Especially in the finals when he repeatedly left his man open behind the arc.

[TD 21]

I wouldn't be surprised or shocked if Spurs weren't fine with bringing back Neal, even for the vet min or for his low qualifying offer.

I suspect you hit the nail on the head.

I don't buy that a front office as astute as this one misjudged the market for Neal to such a degree that they felt they needed to rush to sign a supposedly cheaper alternative before the market had worn thin. Not when Neal was always likely to cost around what they paid Belinelli anyway. The most likely conclusion is, as you alluded to, they flat out picked Belinelli over him.

On the surface, it doesn't make much sense. A healthy Neal is a better shooter/scorer than Belinelli and those are not only the main strengths of both, but mainly what they're looking for in that role. But I remember reading a Harvey article a couple of seasons ago where he said the coaching staff didn't find Neal to be a high IQ player and in the end, that's probably why they decided to move on.

[look_at_g_shred]

The thing that sucks about Neal is all he has to do is get better percentage shots up in moderation. Which I think he could fix easily. Gonna miss him if we do not decide to bring him back..

[therealtruth]

I suspect you hit the nail on the head.

I don't buy that a front office as astute as this one misjudged the market for Neal to such a degree that they felt they needed to rush to sign a supposedly cheaper alternative before the market had worn thin. Not when Neal was always likely to cost around what they paid Belinelli anyway. The most likely conclusion is, as you alluded to, they flat out picked Belinelli over him.

On the surface, it doesn't make much sense. A healthy Neal is a better shooter/scorer than Belinelli and those are not only the main strengths of both, but mainly what they're looking for in that role. But I remember reading a Harvey article a couple of seasons ago where he said the coaching staff didn't find Neal to be a high IQ player and in the end, that's probably why they decided to move on.

His defensive IQ is ridiculously low. I don't think I've ever seen him make one good defensive play.

[therealtruth]

Damn, that was frustrating in real time, but even worse thinking about now. Same goes for the entire finals actually.

That 3 kept the Heat in the game. If Neal had simply been in position it likely wouldn't have happened. Instead he was in no man's land. With no Neal Pop is less likely to be tempted to sacrifice the defense for scoring. Also on offense no Neal means less hero ball and more trusting the pass.

[CGD]

Regarding a potential S&T with Spurs for either Neal or Blair, you had to look at what teams would have the money to sign them to the salaries they are looking for (around $3M). You can rank teams in 4 categories:
- Teams that can't do a S&T or sign them to more than a min contract: Brooklyn, Chicago, Lakers, New York.
- Team's that can't do a S&T but can sign them as FA: Miami.
- Teams that can only get them through a S&T: Charlotte, Denver, Warriors, Indiana, Clippers, Minnesota, Toronto, Wizards.
- Teams that can either do a S&T or sign them with exceptions: Atlanta, Boston, Cleveland*, Dallas*, Detroit*, Houston*, Memphis, Milwaukee, New Orleans*, OKC, Orlando*, Philadelphia, Phoenix*, Portland*, Sacramento*, Utah.

Teams with an * are teams that can offer Neal or Blair about $2.6M per year which might not necessarily be enough to get them.

To sum up, the situation with the 29 other teams regarding Blair/Neal, and assuming they will find a taker at their market value, is:
- 4 teams can't get them.
- 8 teams can get them without Spurs help.
- 8 teams can only get them through a S&T.
- 9 teams are in a between situation where they might finally need a S&T.

Nice round up. Btw, why can Miami just sign him as a FA given there cap situations? Are you assuming the Champions discount?

[Kindergarten Cop]

Nice round up. Btw, why can Miami just sign him as a FA given there cap situations? Are you assuming the Champions discount?

They have the mini MLE (~$3.2M) available to offer.

[CGD]

They have the mini MLE (~$3.2M) available to offer.
Oh ok. Thought they spent that on Bird for some reason.

[playblair]

gay x neal.........................................

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BP-a-QOCEAA1H-V.jpg:large

[Kindergarten Cop]

Oh ok. Thought they spent that on Bird for some reason.

He signed for the minimum, but will still receive almost $4.5M from Denver this year because they used the amnesty provision on him.

[Budkin]

So the Heat could end up signing Neal and Oden?

[Brunodf]

:danceclub:huddle::chestbump

[Kindergarten Cop]

So the Heat could end up signing Neal and Oden?

Yes

[PlayNando]

Beli chucks too tbh
Some chuckers are better than others, tbh.

At least Belli knows how to show off his big testes.

[TheGoldStandard]

Not really sorry to see him go if he does. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He'd hit a nice shot, then chuck a few away and then patrol the paint while his man was hitting shots from the perimeter.

[Cowboys_Wear_Spurs]

Anyone who doubts or regrets why the Spurs let Neal go only has to watch this play about 100x then you will be like, I am glad the M...... F..... gone.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LDH66ja2Zc

[tenbeersbold]

Anyone who doubts or regrets why the Spurs let Neal go only has to watch this play about 100x then you will be like, I am glad the M...... F..... gone.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LDH66ja2Zc

BS,Spurs gameplan was to contain Lebron at any cost,Gary was hedging to help out.

And its not like Miller isnt a deadly 3 pt shooter anyway....he's gonna get a few

Even if you dont

[DesignatedT]

That was the worst defensive play of the finals.

[Cowboys_Wear_Spurs]

BS,Spurs gameplan was to contain Lebron at any cost,Gary was hedging to help out.

And its not like Miller isnt a deadly 3 pt shooter anyway....he's gonna get a few

Even if you dont

Obviously you didn't hear Pop's message to Neal in Game 3, "Gary, just to let you know. Tony told me to tell you to NEVER leave Miller or Allen."

So what you are saying is TOTAL BS about hedging b/c Pop and that wasn't only time repeatly had to tell Neal stop helping out and stay on your man. You can hear Neal yell b/c he knew he fucked up yet AGAIN.

[DesignatedT]

Neal was awful this season. Wish him the best, but glad he's gone.

[timtonymanu]

Now if only Green can learn how to create for himself, then losing Neal would be nothing.

[ace3g]

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine) 15m (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/status/361115924058742784) Hearing: Bucks closing in on completing signing of Gary Neal after sources say Neal's agent David Bauman no longer in negotiations w/Hawks

Marc Stein ‏@ESPNSteinLine (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine) 13m (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/status/361116569151090688)
MIL & ATL were top two pursuers after Spurs withdrew qualifying offer to make Neal unrestricted free agent. Deal w/Bucks now expected today

[Texas_Ranger]

sucks that he'll have to play for Milwaukee.

[Baam]

Bud wanted Neal while Pop didn't, interesting.

[UZER]

Bud wanted Neal while Pop didn't, interesting.

Now Pop has opened up more minutes for Bonner. He'll play the two spot.

[freetiago]

Neal will love Milwaukee
they let the guards chuck as much as they want and ignore the bigs

[CGD]

Can't find Bruno's write up on point, but was Milwaukee one of the teams that had to go the S&T route or could they sign him outright with space/exception?

Tbh glad Neal is going to a team where he can't come back and bite the spurs in the ass like Houston, OkC, or Miami.

[Russ]

Marc Stein ‏‏@ESPNSteinLine (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine) 13m (https://twitter.com/ESPNSteinLine/status/361116569151090688)
MIL & ATL were top two pursuers after Spurs withdrew qualifying offer to make Neal unrestricted free agent. Deal w/Bucks now expected today

This is a significant loss. When people see Neal in Milwaukee (the same ones who want him gone), they'll be reflecting on how much they loved Neal and how dumb the Spurs were to let him go.

[bklynspursfan]

Was hoping he'd end up in Atlanta

[loveforthegame]

Have fun in Milwaukee Neal. Easy road back to the Finals with that team.

[Kindergarten Cop]

Can't find Bruno's write up on point, but was Milwaukee one of the teams that had to go the S&T route or could they sign him outright with space/exception?

Tbh glad Neal is going to a team where he can't come back and bite the spurs in the ass like Houston, OkC, or Miami.


Regarding a potential S&T with Spurs for either Neal or Blair, you had to look at what teams would have the money to sign them to the salaries they are looking for (around $3M). You can rank teams in 4 categories:
- Teams that can't do a S&T or sign them to more than a min contract: Brooklyn, Chicago, Lakers, New York.
- Team's that can't do a S&T but can sign them as FA: Miami.
- Teams that can only get them through a S&T: Charlotte, Denver, Warriors, Indiana, Clippers, Minnesota, Toronto, Wizards.
- Teams that can either do a S&T or sign them with exceptions: Atlanta, Boston, Cleveland*, Dallas*, Detroit*, Houston*, Memphis, Milwauke, New Orleans*, OKC, Orlando*, Philadelphia, Phoenix*, Portland*, Sacramento*, Utah.

Teams with an * are teams that can offer Neal or Blair about $2.6M per year which might not necessarily be enough to get them.

To sum up, the situation with the 29 other teams regarding Blair/Neal, and assuming they will find a taker at their market value, is:
- 4 teams can't get them.
- 8 teams can get them without Spurs help.
- 8 teams can only get them through a S&T.
- 9 teams are in a between situation where they might finally need a S&T.

[spursnatic]

This is a significant loss. When people see Neal in Milwaukee (the same ones who want him gone), they'll be reflecting on how much they loved Neal and how dumb the Spurs were to let him go.Stupid fucking move on the SPURS part..You can never have enough shooting on a team..Why would you not let a DeColo or Baynes go instead?..They can't shoot, all they are good for is taking up Roster space..I am with you on this BIG Time.. Everyone who wants him gone over one stupid defensive miss, will miss him dearly next season

[TXstbobcat]

Good luck in Milwaukee. Wish Neal the best.

[racm]

Stupid fucking move on the SPURS part..You can never have enough shooting on a team..Why would you not let a DeColo or Baynes go instead?..They can't shoot, all they are good for is taking up Roster space..I am with you on this BIG Time.. Everyone who wants him gone over one stupid defensive miss, will miss him dearly next season

Because you can teach De Colo to shoot? Because the Spurs already committed money to Belinelli (who due to wearing #3 will get a boost in fan popularity)?

[Bruno]

Bucks can offer a lot of money to Neal so I'm actually curious to see what kind of contract he will get and if he end up being more expensive than Belinelli. One of the issue with Neal could have been that Spurs weren't ready to offer him more than a two years contract to preserve their 2015 cap space.

[Russ]

Because you can teach De Colo to shoot? Because the Spurs already committed money to Belinelli (who due to wearing #3 will get a boost in fan popularity)?

It's not about Neal vs. DeColo or Neal vs. Belinelli.

It's about Neal vs. Mills to be brutally honest.

Mills is a great guy but the only reason he's back is called "player option." My guess is he'll be off the Spurs after next year and likely out of the NBA.

[Vic Petro]

This is a significant loss. When people see Neal in Milwaukee (the same ones who want him gone), they'll be reflecting on how much they loved Neal and how dumb the Spurs were to let him go.

No one will see him in Milwaukee except the people living in Milwaukee. I thank Neal for his contributions but by December we won't even remember he was on the team.

[SanDiegoSpursFan]

What are the Bucks doing? It's like their goal is somewhere between the 10th and 8th seed.

[TXstbobcat]

No one will see him in Milwaukee except the people living in Milwaukee. I thank Neal for his contributions but by December we won't even remember he was on the team.

i work with a lot of guys from Milwaukee and they don't even care about the bucks.

[spursnatic]

Because you can teach De Colo to shoot? Because the Spurs already committed money to Belinelli (who due to wearing #3 will get a boost in fan popularity)?DeColo should have been a shooter coming out of Europe, like all other Foreign Players..And at 1 Million a year that is a steal..DeColo is trash and I don't, like many other people..See him as a Manu type player in the Future...You can never have enough shooters..True we are heavy at the Guard position, but cut one of you dead weight Players before getting rid of someone who actually gives you something

[timtonymanu]

Milwaukee? Ouch.

Hopefully he earned himself a big paycheck by going there.

Best of luck, Gary.

[ace3g]

Kevin Arnovitz @kevinarnovitz
(http://twitter.com/kevinarnovitz)Sources close to the process report Gary Neal deal with MIL will be for 2 years/$6.5 million.

[TXstbobcat]

Nice payday for Neal. The spurs wouldn't have matched it.

[Vic Petro]

Kevin Arnovitz @kevinarnovitz
(http://twitter.com/kevinarnovitz)Sources close to the process report Gary Neal deal with MIL will be for 2 years/$6.5 million.





So he's $500K more expensive than Belinelli.

[Bruno]

Belinelli: $5.6M/2 years
Neal: $6.5M/2 years

They both basically cost the same and Neal wouldn't have hurt the 2015 cap space plan with that contract.

So,
- For Spurs, is Belinelli > Neal?
- If Spurs knew that Neal could have been had for that kind of money, would have they re-signed him instead of going after Belinelli?
- Have Spurs picked Neal instead of Belinelli, they would have had enough money left on the MLE to sign a player like Dorell Wright. How much does it hurt them not to have that kind of player?

[DesignatedT]

Rather have Belinelli than Neal IMO.

[Baam]

Yeah for some reason they made the decision that they didn't want him back.

Not sure why but they clearly wanted to get rid of him.

Neal was Sjax best friend so maybe he was one of the more vocal about Pop retarded thrust in Turnobili...

Can't be the defensive problem given that they hardly signed an upgrade on that end...

It's puzzling tbh, has to be about some behind the scene stuff...

[benefactor]

Rather have Belinelli than Neal IMO.
Yes. THAT Dude will shit on his haters. Lot's of thread bumps and post quoting will happen around mid-season.

[Baam]

Yes. THAT Dude will shit on his haters. Lot's of thread bumps and post quoting will happen around mid-season.

You can't bump anything mid season because there's nothing that'd make him even as good as Neal in the regular season :lmao, wait until he makes a good play in the POs for the premature ejaculation...