Pop to Kawhi: "You're the big 1."

[Cry Havoc]

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2014/12/2/7319459/kawhi-leonard-san-antonio-spurs-gregg-popovich


"We're trying to loosen up a bit and give him more of a green light," Popovich said. "He's getting more license. When you're a young kid, you're going to defer to Timmy and Manu and [Tony]. Now it's like, ‘To heck with those guys. The Big Three, they're older than dirt. To hell with them. You're the Big One. You've got to go do your deal.' So, we're trying to get him to be more demonstrative in that regard."

35 ppg incoming. :hat

[Robz4000]

RIP NBA imo

[loveforthegame]

But I thought he was a role player.

[hater]

translation: making a case for Kawhi in the Allstar

he needs to step it up to get in the mix:
randolph
aldrige
favors
ibaka
griffin
gay
dirk
kawhi

[SupremeGuy]

Kawhi is about to create a path of destruction all over the NBA. War Kawhi!

[testies]

The day that happens, its the end of our team

we shouldn't give green light to anyone, we have to pass the ball

*prays for Parker injury*

[Budkin]

RIP NBA imo

tbh

[spurraider21]

RIP NBA imo

[Uriel]

Pop better be careful what he wishes for. The last thing we want is for Kawhi to be jacking up more midrange jumpers off the dribble with a hand in his face, rather than kicking it out to a wide open Timmy, Tony, or Manu.

[Blake]

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2014/12/2/7319459/kawhi-leonard-san-antonio-spurs-gregg-popovich



35 ppg incoming. :hat

"Pop said he is the Big One"
-Kawhi's agent

Near max deal incoming

[spurraider21]

"Pop said he is the Big One"
-Kawhi's agent

Near max deal incoming
not "near"

he's getting a max deal

[KL2]

Pop better be careful what he wishes for. The last thing we want is for Kawhi to be jacking up more midrange jumpers off the dribble with a hand in his face, rather than kicking it out to a wide open Timmy, Tony, or Manu.

Those are easy shots for him, low % for others, easy for him, hell everything this guy shoots is high %.

[Cry Havoc]

not "near"

he's getting a max deal

Yep, this pretty much seals it.

That, or he's getting Hill'ed. :lol

[r0drig0lac]

this gonna be good

[Mel_13]

From the OP:

"We're trying to loosen up a bit and give him more of a green light," Popovich said. "He's getting more license.

From an article a week ago:

"I have license to do down there in the post if I can, if I have the opportunity, and I'm just trying to be more aggressive," Leonard said.

http://www.poundingtherock.com/2014/11/24/7277397/spurs-enjoy-letting-big-banger-slam-into-opponents-for-a-change



Spurs sticking to the talking points.

[Malik Hairston]

He's never going to put up shots at the volume everybody wants, tbh..his style of play doesn't fit with the Spurs, which has been evident for a minute..

He has excelled in his role, because he's very talented and is a rare case of a player that is a dual-threat as a role player and also a creator, which has been made possible due to the amazing work Chip did with his jump shot, of course..

However, the Spurs' system doesn't cater to Leonard's skill-set as an offensive player..this is an extremely unique case, as usually when teams have a talent like Leonard, it's a young team that isn't in a position to contend, and can provide all the opportunity in the world for that player to experiment and run whatever type of offense he wants/needs..

The Spurs' still have the same core, no other team has ever had their core for this long(in NBA history), they can't revamp an entire system to include heavy Leonard sets, especially on the go, while still maintaining their pace in a competitive conference where you can't go on a losing streak if you are planning on staying in the top 4..they're certainly trying to get him more involved, a lot of post looks, but it has been painful, at times, and it's evident that the rest of the team is going to take a long time to adjust to Leonard creating offense..

It would be different if he was a guard, as the Spurs' system is very friendly to guards and finishing big men, but he's never going to be more than a spot-up shooter and "freestyler" on offense here IMO..

[ElNono]

what I like about Kawhi is that he quietly goes out there and puts up a great production... I had no idea how many points he scored or how many rebounds he had last night until I checked the boxscore at home.

[in2deep]

and yet Kawhi has delivered everytime the Spurs have asked more of him

no he's not the next Lebron or KD but Kawhi has improved greatly every year and he's only 23 :tu

[Malik Hairston]

what I like about Kawhi is that he quietly goes out there and puts up a great production... I had no idea how many points he scored or how many rebounds he had last night until I checked the boxscore at home.

That's the best part about Leonard..

This isn't Richard Jefferson, where we're all wondering how he's going to "fit" with the offense..in the NBA, every time there's a major addition to a team(this year, Lance Stephenson, Chandler Parsons, the Cavs, Jeremy Lin, etc) that struggles offensively, the question is always about how his style of play can fit better, and how the team can make him more comfortable in their system..

With Kawhi, even when we complain about his touches and his role, it's still always a given that he's going to rebound and defend at an elite level, at least..he has learned how to play basketball in the best system in NBA history, on a championship team, which is invaluable to his future and growth, especially if he joins a different team..

[ElNono]

That's the best part about Leonard..

This isn't Richard Jefferson, where we're all wondering how he's going to "fit" with the offense..in the NBA, every time there's a major addition to a team(this year, Lance Stephenson, Chandler Parsons, the Cavs, Jeremy Lin, etc) that struggles offensively, the question is always about how his style of play can fit better, and how the team can make him more comfortable in their system..

With Kawhi, even when we complain about his touches and his role, it's still always a given that he's going to rebound and defend at an elite level, at least..he has learned how to play basketball in the best system in NBA history, on a championship team, which is invaluable to his future and growth, especially if he joins a different team..

http://www.spursreport.com/forums/spurs-nba-fan-feedback/80159-i-think-richard-jefferson-needs-get-more-touches-offense.html

[Mikeanaro]

and yet Kawhi has delivered everytime the Spurs have asked more of him

no he's not the next Lebron or KD but Kawhi has improved greatly every year and he's only 23 :tu
He is a hard working player, not a manufactured piece of shit.

[spurraider21]

Outside of Manu, I can't remember the last time a Spurs perimeter player had the green light to improvise as much as we've seen from Leonard. He's the #1 option in transition and it's not even close, and they don't seem to mind if he forces a contested shot in the paint coming off transition, instead of pulling it back and getting into a set. He's allowed to force the issue.

Even in the halfcourt, when the ball gets to him, sometimes he continues to move within the offense, drive and finish/kick, but other times he'll just take a step back and take his guy on, either with the dribble or get himself into a post position where the rest of the team clears up and gives him room to work.

To my eye it looks like he's allowed to do whatever he wants, but he's been responsible with it, not taking too many bad shots.

[DPG21920]

Of course he can be more with a few extra sets called for him (at the expense of Tim most likely) and in the future with Tim/Manu gone. I highly doubt the Spurs stick to the same thing when Tim/Manu are gone. They could, but they will have to add wrinkles.

[dbreiden83080]

They don't really need him doing that much more offensively.. His D is maybe even more important. Need to save some for that end..

[DPG21920]

They don't really need him doing that much more offensively.. His D is maybe even more important. Need to save some for that end..

Agreed. But he's the most efficent mid-range player on the team and top post player (maybe Tiago). Spurs system is predicated on ball movement (not stagnant post play) and not mid-range (Kawhi's specialty now), but he comes in handy and if he works on passing he could see an expanded role.

[DarrinS]

He just needs to pick his spots. The current offensive system doesn't benefit from any ONE player going full Enrique. :lol

[Cry Havoc]

Outside of Manu, I can't remember the last time a Spurs perimeter player had the green light to improvise as much as we've seen from Leonard. He's the #1 option in transition and it's not even close, and they don't seem to mind if he forces a contested shot in the paint coming off transition, instead of pulling it back and getting into a set. He's allowed to force the issue.

Even in the halfcourt, when the ball gets to him, sometimes he continues to move within the offense, drive and finish/kick, but other times he'll just take a step back and take his guy on, either with the dribble or get himself into a post position where the rest of the team clears up and gives him room to work.

To my eye it looks like he's allowed to do whatever he wants, but he's been responsible with it, not taking too many bad shots.

Just like every other year, Pop using the regular season as practice grounds for the Post. He wants Kawhi to get a feel for everything he wants to do.

[DPG21920]

With Kawhi its passing, decision making and patience. He rushes a lot still as he gets giddy. He needs to stop Brook Lopezing in the post all the time too. He's doing damn well. His effort on defense and transition is fantastic and his post play is so damn efficient. His mid range game is very, very good. He just has to feel the game out better on offense.

[gilmor2002]

He's never going to put up shots at the volume everybody wants, tbh..his style of play doesn't fit with the Spurs, which has been evident for a minute..

He has excelled in his role, because he's very talented and is a rare case of a player that is a dual-threat as a role player and also a creator, which has been made possible due to the amazing work Chip did with his jump shot, of course..

However, the Spurs' system doesn't cater to Leonard's skill-set as an offensive player..this is an extremely unique case, as usually when teams have a talent like Leonard, it's a young team that isn't in a position to contend, and can provide all the opportunity in the world for that player to experiment and run whatever type of offense he wants/needs..

The Spurs' still have the same core, no other team has ever had their core for this long(in NBA history), they can't revamp an entire system to include heavy Leonard sets, especially on the go, while still maintaining their pace in a competitive conference where you can't go on a losing streak if you are planning on staying in the top 4..they're certainly trying to get him more involved, a lot of post looks, but it has been painful, at times, and it's evident that the rest of the team is going to take a long time to adjust to Leonard creating offense..

It would be different if he was a guard, as the Spurs' system is very friendly to guards and finishing big men, but he's never going to be more than a spot-up shooter and "freestyler" on offense here IMO..

Things gonna change. With Tim and Manu nearing retirement, Kawhi obviously have to step up. That's why is he is the Big 1.

This is going to be a transition phase with Kawhi and Tony playing together.

I am pretty sure all this Pop's talk is preparing Kawhi for the near future when the Spurs is no longer the Big 3.

[100%duncan]

It's a long time coming. Funny how we were all worried for the Post TD/Big 3 era and now that Pop has finally "chosen" the next big thing for us, a lot of ya'll are hesitant and want to go back into the past. And it's not like Kawhi is an inefficient volume chucker, the dude's been pretty efficient throughout his whole NBA career. He has the tool to become what he wants to be, the strength and quickness to drive, the shot, the post-up, the defense, everything. It's time to give the keys to some new young kid, whether we like it or not.

[spurraider21]

It's a long time coming. Funny how we were all worried for the Post TD/Big 3 era and now that Pop has finally "chosen" the next big thing for us, a lot of ya'll are hesitant and want to go back into the past. And it's not like Kawhi is an inefficient volume chucker, the dude's been pretty efficient throughout his whole NBA career. He has the tool to become what he wants to be, the strength and quickness to drive, the shot, the post-up, the defense, everything. It's time to give the keys to some new young kid, whether we like it or not.
but Timmy :cry

its too hard

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/unfair.gif

[NickiRasgo]

I have watched his highlights against 76ers, yeah 76ers but I noticed his playmaking ability is improving.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFk7nbHvUgY

[Blake]

not "near"

he's getting a max deal

wouldn't surprise me either way

[itzsoweezee]

translation: making a case for Kawhi in the Allstar

he needs to step it up to get in the mix:
randolph - nope
aldrige
favors - nope
ibaka - nope
griffin
gay - nope
dirk
kawhi

[apalisoc_9]

He's never going to put up shots at the volume everybody wants, tbh..his style of play doesn't fit with the Spurs, which has been evident for a minute..

He has excelled in his role, because he's very talented and is a rare case of a player that is a dual-threat as a role player and also a creator, which has been made possible due to the amazing work Chip did with his jump shot, of course..

However, the Spurs' system doesn't cater to Leonard's skill-set as an offensive player..this is an extremely unique case, as usually when teams have a talent like Leonard, it's a young team that isn't in a position to contend, and can provide all the opportunity in the world for that player to experiment and run whatever type of offense he wants/needs..

The Spurs' still have the same core, no other team has ever had their core for this long(in NBA history), they can't revamp an entire system to include heavy Leonard sets, especially on the go, while still maintaining their pace in a competitive conference where you can't go on a losing streak if you are planning on staying in the top 4..they're certainly trying to get him more involved, a lot of post looks, but it has been painful, at times, and it's evident that the rest of the team is going to take a long time to adjust to Leonard creating offense..

It would be different if he was a guard, as the Spurs' system is very friendly to guards and finishing big men, but he's never going to be more than a spot-up shooter and "freestyler" on offense here IMO..

Agree 100%, but I've never understood why Pop props up Kawhi so much, specially in the last 2 years..He was one of the first to call kawhi a future star, a franchise, and now this even when I myself as a huge fan can't see it in his game. I've always wanted more kawhi, but I've nver seen him as a 1 guy, or a franchise guy...I've always thought, his potential is best sidekick in the history of NBA..

I don't know if Pop is being honest, or he's pulling a Geroge hill on kawhi, but that wouldn't really make sense though since at this point kawhi is getting the max..

[Blake]

http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/229/files/2014/06/kawhi-leonard-gregg-popovich-nba-san-antonio-spurs-utah-jazz-850x560.jpg

"You've got big ones"

[-21-]

This is gonna make apalisoc_9 so happy.

[spurraider21]

Agree 100%
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/210/119/9b3.png

[phxspurfan]

Looks like RC told Pop pre-season that if KL wants the max, he better show this season that he can offensively carry the team.

[SpurPadre]

Agree 100%, but I've never understood why Pop props up Kawhi so much, specially in the last 2 years..He was one of the first to call kawhi a future star, a franchise, and now this even when I myself as a huge fan can't see it in his game. I've always wanted more kawhi, but I've nver seen him as a 1 guy, or a franchise guy...I've always thought, his potential is best sidekick in the history of NBA..

I don't know if Pop is being honest, or he's pulling a Geroge hill on kawhi, but that wouldn't really make sense though since at this point kawhi is getting the max..

Best sidekick in the history of the game? Well, that title currently belongs to Scottie Pippen and he's a Hall of Famer. So if you think that Kawhi has that potential, that would make him a star.

[aintjustthem]

Is there anyone better at the small forward position currently in the West? I know KD is back, but in the NBA as it stands now Kawhi is on top when it comes to small forwards in the West.

[Malik Hairston]

Is there anyone better at the small forward position currently in the West? I know KD is back, but in the NBA as it stands now Kawhi is on top when it comes to small forwards in the West.

Well Dominos Durant is obviously better..the Kings version of Rudy Gay is a toss-up, depending on what you value(Gay has really cleaned his game up since his embarrassing exit from the Raptors, where he realized he needs to alter his playing style to something less cancerous:lol)..those are probably the only 2 in the mix with him..

[apalisoc_9]

Best sidekick in the history of the game? Well, that title currently belongs to Scottie Pippen and he's a Hall of Famer. So if you think that Kawhi has that potential, that would make him a star.

kawhi is a star and a future Hall of famer, I have no doubt that..I said that back in his rookie year...

franchise..starting to think he is.

[apalisoc_9]

translation: making a case for Kawhi in the Allstar

he needs to step it up to get in the mix:
randolph
aldrige
favors
ibaka
griffin
gay
dirk
kawhi

Randolph, Ibaka and favors won't make it over kawhi specially if the spurs finish a top the west before the All-star break. But, All-star selection is different now..It's just frontcourt and backcourt..So there is Gasol and Boggie who will both for sure make it. Durant will make it, aldridge and Griffin are sure shots...

kawhi's real competition is gay, Dirk and Tim.

[BatManu20]

I've noticed it too, tbh. With his baseline fade-aways.

539642093170622465

[apalisoc_9]

I've noticed it too, tbh. With his baseline fade-aways.

539642093170622465

This is awesome, because it will allow kawhi to score even at later ages..

[spursparker9]

Shit.

Now Tony is going to solo even more

[Richie]

Best sidekick in the history of the game? Well, that title currently belongs to Scottie Pippen and he's a Hall of Famer. So if you think that Kawhi has that potential, that would make him a star.

Agreed. Pippen is actually a very interesting comparison to Kawhi. Leonards goal should be to emulate Pippens defence and post game, he's already a better 3 point and mid range shooter (using Pippens late career stats) but he'll never be the playmaker that Pippen was.

[apalisoc_9]

Agreed. Pippen is actually a very interesting comparison to Kawhi. Leonards goal should be to emulate Pippens defence and post game, he's already a better 3 point and mid range shooter (using Pippens late career stats) but he'll never be the playmaker that Pippen was.

Man, i swear some people don't even watch spurs games.

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

Man, i swear some people don't even watch spurs games.

:lmao

Leonard is great on defense, but give me a fucking break kid... Pippen could D up ANYONE. Leonard couldn't D up Westbrook.. Pippen could.

As for playmaking? LMAO! When have we seen Leonard play this year much less be the playmaker Pippen was?

[midnightpulp]

Agree 100%, but I've never understood why Pop props up Kawhi so much, specially in the last 2 years..He was one of the first to call kawhi a future star, a franchise, and now this even when I myself as a huge fan can't see it in his game. I've always wanted more kawhi, but I've nver seen him as a 1 guy, or a franchise guy...I've always thought, his potential is best sidekick in the history of NBA..

I don't know if Pop is being honest, or he's pulling a Geroge hill on kawhi, but that wouldn't really make sense though since at this point kawhi is getting the max..

Kawhi can still be a "franchise player" even as the number 2 offensive option. I think we need to get out of this idea that franchise players have to lead the team in PPG and be the primary focal point of the offense.

Kawhi can be the number 2 on offense, but be the number 1 defensive player of the team, leading the team on that end. Even if Kawhi's PPG never gets above 20ppg, if his defense and rebounding remain at their elite level, that is a franchise player when you consider the total package.

I'd prefer he never become a 25ppg scorer, because that would mean his defense and other skills would decline as he's tasked with more of a load on offense.

[apalisoc_9]

Kawhi can still be a "franchise player" even as the number 2 offensive option. I think we need to get out of this idea that franchise players have to lead the team in PPG and be the primary focal point of the offense.

Kawhi can be the number 2 on offense, but be the number 1 defensive player of the team, leading the team on that end. Even if Kawhi's PPG never gets above 20ppg, if his defense and rebounding remain at their elite level, that is a franchise player when you consider the total package.

I'd prefer he never become a 25ppg scorer, because that would mean his defense and other skills would decline as he's tasked with more of a load on offense.

Oh I agree with you 100%..

it's just that for this particular Pop comment, it just seems like he actually wants him to a scorer.

[itzsoweezee]

not trying to be hyperbolic, but Kawhi's post-up and midrange game is very Jordanesque. You can tell he's been studying those tapes.

[apalisoc_9]

not trying to be hyperbolic, but Kawhi's post-up and midrange game is very Jordanesque. You can tell he's been studying those tapes.

Jordan and Pippen infused into one player...:cry

[Floyd Pacquiao]

Kawhi is already a better playmaker than pippen was at the same age. The numbers support iirc

[spurraider21]

Man, i swear some people don't even watch spurs games.
leonard isn't a natural when it comes to playmaking/passing. he's gotten better at creating for himself, but he's not super fluid when it comes to involving others and creating for them

[apalisoc_9]

Kawhi is already a better playmaker than pippen was at the same age. The numbers support iirc

my nigga

[spurraider21]

Kawhi is already a better playmaker than pippen was at the same age. The numbers support iirc
hm, i always seem to forget how young Kawhi is given its already his 4th season. this is kiwi's age 23 season. scottie's age 23 season was his 2nd year, in which he averaged 14.4 points and 3.5 assists (2.7 turnovers)

[exstatic]

Looks like RC told Pop pre-season that if KL wants the max, he better show this season that he can offensively carry the team.

RC doesn't tell Pop anything. Pop, in addition to being coach, is president of basketball operations. RC works for him.

[Fireball]

Number of shots do not matter to me, in the Spurs system that should be dictated by the flow of the game. If Kawhi has the ball and the opportunity to post up, then go for it. No reason to force anything that's not there.
I only care for one thing and that's Kawhi playing average of 36 minutes because we need his defense and rebounding. To do this he only needs to stay out of foul trouble.

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

Kawhi to Pop: no, you're the big one ;)

[wildchild]

kawhi's real competition is gay, Dirk and Tim.

Even with a more prominent/expanding role the fans votes won't favor Leonard and I can't see the coaches choosing the player who scoring less points per game than the others candidates. The AGS it's a show, only matters the offensive end and stats like 18/20 ppg.

If the coaches have to vote a Spurs player like last year because of the team winning record, they'll select Tony again, he's part of the Big 3 and one of the best european players. The later means he's more international marketable, and that's what the NBA wants, expand overseas.

[hitmantb]

He's never going to put up shots at the volume everybody wants, tbh..his style of play doesn't fit with the Spurs, which has been evident for a minute..

He has excelled in his role, because he's very talented and is a rare case of a player that is a dual-threat as a role player and also a creator, which has been made possible due to the amazing work Chip did with his jump shot, of course..

However, the Spurs' system doesn't cater to Leonard's skill-set as an offensive player..this is an extremely unique case, as usually when teams have a talent like Leonard, it's a young team that isn't in a position to contend, and can provide all the opportunity in the world for that player to experiment and run whatever type of offense he wants/needs..

The Spurs' still have the same core, no other team has ever had their core for this long(in NBA history), they can't revamp an entire system to include heavy Leonard sets, especially on the go, while still maintaining their pace in a competitive conference where you can't go on a losing streak if you are planning on staying in the top 4..they're certainly trying to get him more involved, a lot of post looks, but it has been painful, at times, and it's evident that the rest of the team is going to take a long time to adjust to Leonard creating offense..

It would be different if he was a guard, as the Spurs' system is very friendly to guards and finishing big men, but he's never going to be more than a spot-up shooter and "freestyler" on offense here IMO..

Can not agree with this at all.

Kwahi's individual play in game 3-4-5 to cancel out LeBron was what gave Spurs the 5th title, without him awakening his ISO power, Spurs was headed toward a Utah Jazz 1998 bitter ending. Basically, it was like what would have happened if you added LeBron to the Spurs. Dominant team ball on top of dominant individual talent = steam roll the defending champion.

Team ball will only get you so far. In game 6 OT against OKC, Duncan took over. Unless you are blowing teams out, at end of games you need individual scoring power. Prime Manu always had the freedom to do what he wanted. Kwahi can easily be that guy. He doesn't have the passing but he can overpower with his strength. Can you imagine prime Manu cancel out LeBron 1v1 like Kwahi did last year?

I don't think anyone is looking for 30 shots a game. But prime Manu often mix up his drives/passing with mid/long range jumpers. I am perfectly OK with Kwahi taking 15-20 shots per game and make end-of-clock 1v1 plays.

[wildchild]

We shouldn't buy "Kawhi, you're the 1". Pop has a trolling-reporters story, saying one thing in public and doing another on the court.
Like this season when Leonard didn't touch the ball for whole quarters.
In november against the Kings, Cavs, etc, or during eight minutes of the 4th quarter against Celtics, we saw the team didn't look him and they didn't get him the ball where he needed to get it.

Manu sounds more realistic than Pop.
After last game he said "On a different team Kawhi would be pulling much higher numbers. We play a system. We take what the game gives us. Leonard's day as the Spurs' every-night go-to scorer is coming It's just a matter of time, and we're not talking about a decade. We're talking about a year, or two" so not this season with the Big 3 still playing.

[spurspokesman]

Make room america

[Proxy]

RC doesn't tell Pop anything. Pop, in addition to being coach, is president of basketball operations. RC works for him.

Never realized that

[superbigtime]

http://cdn.fansided.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/229/files/2014/06/kawhi-leonard-gregg-popovich-nba-san-antonio-spurs-utah-jazz-850x560.jpg

"You've got big ones"

Look at those freakish fingers.

[hater]

and yet Kawhi has delivered everytime the Spurs have asked more of him

no he's not the next Lebron or KD but Kawhi has improved greatly every year and he's only 23 :tu

agree with this. Kawhi has never let us down. (and no that missed free throw in game 6 is not a FAIL given Pop, Manu's and even Duncan failures that game.) plus it was his 1st finals.

until he let's us down bigtime, my money will always be on Kawhi

[hater]

Randolph, Ibaka and favors won't make it over kawhi specially if the spurs finish a top the west before the All-star break. But, All-star selection is different now..It's just frontcourt and backcourt..So there is Gasol and Boggie who will both for sure make it. Durant will make it, aldridge and Griffin are sure shots...

kawhi's real competition is gay, Dirk and Tim.

#1) Spurs will NOT finish #1 in the West
#2) since when does the allstar selection depend on team record?

gay and Favors are both in the mix definitely regardless of record. who knows if Durant will decide to join too. sure the Centers need to make it too, but IMO they usually let a few centers in and then it's all SF PFs...

IMO the possibility of Kawhi in the all-star game is about 50% (assuming he will sustain or increase the output of his last 5 or so games)

but my point was that Pop is already working the PR on it for mainly 1 reason, he wants Kawhi to join the ranks of the ref-favored players in the league. Pop is already looking forward to the playoffs and wants Kawhi to get benefit of the doubt like the rest of the superstars.

[apalisoc_9]

#1) Spurs will NOT finish #1 in the West
#2) since when does the allstar selection depend on team record?

gay and Favors are both in the mix definitely regardless of record. who knows if Durant will decide to join too. sure the Centers need to make it too, but IMO they usually let a few centers in and then it's all SF PFs...

IMO the possibility of Kawhi in the all-star game is about 50% (assuming he will sustain or increase the output of his last 5 or so games)

but my point was that Pop is already working the PR on it for mainly 1 reason, he wants Kawhi to join the ranks of the ref-favored players in the league. Pop is already looking forward to the playoffs and wants Kawhi to get benefit of the doubt like the rest of the superstars.

people take into account records when choosing all-stars..That's why miami had bosh-wade-Lebron all making it even though they were a few players in the east that had better stats than bosh.

Favors will not make it...you can't have two players from shitty teams..if anything, Hayward will be the token Jazz player but it is very unlikely for a jazz player to make it..

The Possibility of Kawhi making it, is way less than 50%..I'd say less than 1% because the last two spots is not position based..It's anyone who the coaches think deserve to be in the all-star.

you have 5 Guards 5 Frontcourts and two wildcards.

Durant, Griffin, Gasol, Aldridge and Davis will all make it..Harden, Westbrook, curry, Bryant, Paul will all make it.

That leaves Kawhi fighting for a spot with Tim, Dirk, Thompson, Tony, Randolph, hayward, Dragic, Bledsoe, Lillard, Ellis, Gay, Boggie, Howard,

So for two spots, One of which is going to be the token spur...Most likely Tony since he is in his all time high of stat padding, another one will be the token Mavs, That leaves Howard, one of dirk or Ellis, Thompson, gay all not making it...

Kawhi's real xompeition is his own teamate Tony..Tony knows this though. no wonder he is trying his best to not run plays for Kawhi.

[hater]

people take into account records when choosing all-stars..That's why miami had bosh-wade-Lebron all making it even though they were a few players in the east that had better stats than bosh.

wrong. Lebron and Wade made the people's choice last year, which leaves only Bosh to be chosen by coaches. Obviously KD(assuming he holds up) and 2 of Davis/Aldridge/Gasol/Decousins/Howard? will make the people's choice this year.



Favors will not make it...you can't have two players from shitty teams..if anything, Hayward will be the token Jazz player but it is very unlikely for a jazz player to make it..


never said he would, he is in the mix thou and will be in the ballots



The Possibility of Kawhi making it, is way less than 50%..I'd say less than 1% because the last two spots is not position based..It's anyone who the coaches think deserve to be in the all-star.

IF Kawhi sustains his output and is the best Spur player (which he should) he has a great chance of making it (Spurs are the champs after all) IMO there are 2 spots open for the following:
Kawhi
Dirk
Gay
(Howard/Decousins)
Griffiths (who is NOT a lock to make it)
Favors

regarding Tony, he has already given up MVPs for Kawhi so giving up Allstar for Pop's grand plan is a no brainer. :tu thanks MVParker :wow

[apalisoc_9]

wrong. Lebron and Wade made the people's choice last year, which leaves only Bosh to be chosen by coaches. Obviously KD and either Davis/Aldridge/Gasol/Decousins/Howard? will make the people's choice this year.



never said he would, he is in the mix thou and will be in the ballots



IF Kawhi sustains his output and is the best Spur player (which he should) he has a great chance of making it (Spurs are the champs after all) IMO there are 2 spots open for the following:
Kawhi
Dirk
Gay
(Howard/Decousins)
Griffiths (who is NOT a lock to make it)
Favors

regarding Tony, he has already given up MVPs for Kawhi so giving up Allstar for Pop's grand plan is a no brainer. :tu thanks MVParker :wow

spurs are the champs after all, but then deny the fact that people take into consideration team success...WtF Bro

[hater]

spurs are the champs after all, but then deny the fact that people take into consideration team success...WtF Bro

correct, current champs >>>> record at allstar break

[apalisoc_9]

Tony didn't give up anything...

Kawhi won despite him..

Lol stat padding fourth quarter of game 5 :lol

[Blake]

I think all star voters will remember Kawhi's finals MVP performance

[hater]

I think all star voters will remember Kawhi's finals MVP performance

that too. Thanks MVParker :tu

[apalisoc_9]

I actually can't wait for the voting...

tough task, but would be awesome if he is starting...

[Brazil]

^ not sure why this faggot is so obssessed with the ASG tbh...

who fucking cares

not even starting on the parker not running plays... duh

[N0 LyF3 ScRuB]

Jeremy Lin will start too

[benstanfield]

He's never going to put up shots at the volume everybody wants, tbh..his style of play doesn't fit with the Spurs, which has been evident for a minute..

He has excelled in his role, because he's very talented and is a rare case of a player that is a dual-threat as a role player and also a creator, which has been made possible due to the amazing work Chip did with his jump shot, of course..

However, the Spurs' system doesn't cater to Leonard's skill-set as an offensive player..this is an extremely unique case, as usually when teams have a talent like Leonard, it's a young team that isn't in a position to contend, and can provide all the opportunity in the world for that player to experiment and run whatever type of offense he wants/needs..

The Spurs' still have the same core, no other team has ever had their core for this long(in NBA history), they can't revamp an entire system to include heavy Leonard sets, especially on the go, while still maintaining their pace in a competitive conference where you can't go on a losing streak if you are planning on staying in the top 4..they're certainly trying to get him more involved, a lot of post looks, but it has been painful, at times, and it's evident that the rest of the team is going to take a long time to adjust to Leonard creating offense..

It would be different if he was a guard, as the Spurs' system is very friendly to guards and finishing big men, but he's never going to be more than a spot-up shooter and "freestyler" on offense here IMO..

Meh, he'll be much better when the bench is healthy & they can play with more consistent pace. He's already pretty deadly in transition as a coast to coast ball handler & creating mismatches in the post in transition.

Besides, if one of the better defenders & rebounders on the planet is only giving us ~17ppg I aint even mad

[Malik Hairston]

Can not agree with this at all.

Kwahi's individual play in game 3-4-5 to cancel out LeBron was what gave Spurs the 5th title, without him awakening his ISO power, Spurs was headed toward a Utah Jazz 1998 bitter ending. Basically, it was like what would have happened if you added LeBron to the Spurs. Dominant team ball on top of dominant individual talent = steam roll the defending champion.

Team ball will only get you so far. In game 6 OT against OKC, Duncan took over. Unless you are blowing teams out, at end of games you need individual scoring power. Prime Manu always had the freedom to do what he wanted. Kwahi can easily be that guy. He doesn't have the passing but he can overpower with his strength. Can you imagine prime Manu cancel out LeBron 1v1 like Kwahi did last year?

I don't think anyone is looking for 30 shots a game. But prime Manu often mix up his drives/passing with mid/long range jumpers. I am perfectly OK with Kwahi taking 15-20 shots per game and make end-of-clock 1v1 plays.

I didn't say any of that:lol..I've been one of the biggest advocates of Kawhi getting more involved in the system since he joined the team..

His isolation skills in the Finals were "freestyled", they weren't set plays, which is my point..Pop rarely ran plays for him prior to this season, as Pop himself has stated several times..

Leonard is talented enough to improvise and produce for himself in the system, but he's never going to be a natural fit, his style of play as a scorer isn't suited for Pop's system..

Prime Manu was a much better fit with the Spurs, as he excelled out of the pick&roll and playmaking off the dribble..

Kawhi's game is much more difficult to build a team around..his best offensive skill is posting up, but it's difficult to find spacing when both Duncan and Splitter are on the floor with him(as we saw in the 1st half of last season, where he struggled)..it's also obvious that the rest of the team hasn't learned how to play off him..really, SF is the most difficult position to build an offense around, unless you have a super-gifted passer like Lebron or Larry Bird(and even then, it wasn't particularly easy to build championship teams)..

[Brazil]

4-16 for the big 1

:depressed

[loveforthegame]

His offense sucked. No excuses.

But it's his first bad game in how many? Let's not make it sound he's been sucking for awhile.

[phxspurfan]

RC doesn't tell Pop anything. Pop, in addition to being coach, is president of basketball operations. RC works for him.

Yes, but it's still RC's money. I'm pretty sure that any max offer request has RC raising an eyebrow and discussing with Pop, if the player really deserves that money.

[cd021]

Tony didn't give up anything...

Kawhi won despite him..

Lol stat padding fourth quarter of game 5 :lol

How is going 7-7 in the forth quarter of an closeout finals victory stat padding? Its not like he was jacking up shot in garbage time. You forgot to mention that Lebron guarded Parker in game 5 and not Kawhi. I think Wade guarded Kawhi. Parkers presence on the floor made it easier for Leonard that game and Diaws floor spacing was a big reason why KL had enough room to operate from games 3-5

[wildchild]

Lebron guarded Parker in game 5 and not Kawhi.

In 2013 Finals? Yes, but last finals after game 4 Lebron was on Kawhi more, if you watch Leonard highlights of game 5 you can see Lebron guarding him most of the possessions.

[apalisoc_9]

His offense sucked. No excuses.

But it's his first bad game in how many? Let's not make it sound he's been sucking for awhile.

agreed.

[Budkin]

Everyone sucked tonight. Everyone.

[DarrinS]

Everyone sucked tonight. Everyone.

Troof bomb

[wildchild]

4-16 for the big 1

:depressed

Tim 5-18, Kawhi 4-16, Bonner 3-10, Boris 0-6 ...horrible shooting night.

[apalisoc_9]

Tim 5-18, Kawhi 4-16, Bonner 3-10, Boris 0-6 ...horrible shooting night.

Why is tim taking 18 shots again?

Jesus, he is shooting way below 20% for post ups and they continue to run through him..

[TheGreatYacht]

Why is tim taking 18 shots again?

Jesus, he is shooting way below 20% for post ups and they continue to run through him..
Quit bitching about players taking more shots than KaPassive

[TheGreatYacht]

540352112073654272
This MF has gotten cocky after 5

[apalisoc_9]

Good decision pop..I agree with you.

We would have been blown out if Parker was running the the show IMO.

[TheGreatYacht]

"You're the big one" ... 4/16

[DarrinS]

"You're the big one" ... 4/16

I thought this loss was 100% on Manu

[TheGreatYacht]

I thought this loss was 100% on Manu
It is :lol Kawhi at least shut down his man... Manu gave Willams enough time to call his mom, and then make a 3

[DarrinS]

It is :lol Kawhi at least shut down his man... Manu gave Willams enough time to call his mom, and then make a 3

You're a one-trick pony

[ElNono]

I don't care if he shots 1-237823, he's earned the max, tbh... same with Danny, tbh... would go to battle with those guys along with the Big 3 every night...

[TheGreatYacht]

You're a one-trick pony
I thought you were better than this, nvm no I didn't. zzzzz

[cd021]

In 2013 Finals? Yes, but last finals after game 4 Lebron was on Kawhi more, if you watch Leonard highlights of game 5 you can see Lebron guarding him most of the possessions.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bckeFYPj-o

Not really. This 10 minute clip shows Lebron guarding Parker, Manu and even Mills and Duncan. I don't think I saw him guard Kawhi even once. To stat the game Lebron definitely guarded Parker.

In the second half they began to switch more and Lebron was guarding Duncan on several possessions in the second half.

[wildchild]

This 10 minute clip shows Lebron guarding Parker, Manu and even Mills and Duncan. I don't think I saw him guard Kawhi even once.
2:33 Lebron guarding Kawhi...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSj1uwHnSLM&feature=youtu.be

Re-watching this video Leonard scored over almost all Heat guys. 3 on Battier, 3 on Wade, 2 on Allen, 1 on Lebron, 1 on Lewis.

[cd021]

2:33 Lebron guarding Kawhi...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSj1uwHnSLM&feature=youtu.be

Re-watching this video Leonard scored over almost all Heat guys. 3 on Battier, 3 on Wade, 2 on Allen, 1 on Lebron, 1 on Lewis.

I stand corrected on that but Lebron was seldom on Leonard in Game 5. I remember SVG mentioning that that was one of the adjustments the Heat made was to start Lebron on Parker.

[TheGreatYacht]

Big 1 got outplayed by Tayshaun Prince :lmao

[Clipper Nation]

Big 1 got outplayed by Tayshaun Prince :lmao
Enrique quit and faked an injury and the team played better without him :lmao

[Kool Bob Love]

540352112073654272
This MF has gotten cocky after 5
https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10429265_10201958907334268_3777477251863035871_n.j pg?oh=d112a87a2578e14168b0c2e9eed54719&oe=54FF8E22&__gda__=1427622493_35719770d70ac8b534a5965f50c327a 9

-3

:nerd

[TheGreatYacht]

Enrique quit and faked an injury and the team played better without him :lmao
Oh for real?
541051621359493120

[loveforthegame]

2 bad shooting nights and people are trying to make more of it than there is.

[spurraider21]

Kawhi was the big -3 today

[loveforthegame]

Spurs fans crying because Leonard hopes to be a Spur for life. I can't wait to see the melt down when he gets the max. :lol

[dabom]

Spurs fans crying because Leonard hopes to be a Spur for life. I can't wait to see the melt down when he gets the max. :lol

if the spurs give it to him, he totally deserves it.

[Clipper Nation]

Oh for real?
541051621359493120

Yes, for real. Better ball movement.

[loveforthegame]

if the spurs give it to him, he totally deserves it.

I agree. I hope he's a Spur for life.

But not everyone agrees. It would serve them right if Leonard managed to leave this summer. I guess they'd like to go back to the Finley's and RJ's.

[spurraider21]

there's no "if"... leonard will be a spur. the only question is if he accepts the spurs max offer or a shorter-term offer sheet like Parsons

[wildchild]

Big 1 got outplayed by Tayshaun Prince :lmao

Prince outplayed the player who defended him...and that guy wasn't Kawhi.

Leonard was on Lee and then on Carter, only in two possessions Kawhi guarded Prince.

I'm gonna waste my time but...you watch the game, the defensive assignments during the game, or just the boxscore?

[TheGreatYacht]

Spurs fans crying because Leonard hopes to be a Spur for life. I can't wait to see the melt down when he gets the max. :lol
Kawhi deserves the max, hope we keep him...

[ivanfromwestwood]

Green>Leonard. Better shooter and defender

[TheGreatYacht]

Prince outplayed the player who defended him...and that guy wasn't Kawhi.

Leonard was on Lee and then on Carter, only in two possessions Kawhi guarded Prince.

I'm gonna waste my time but...you watch the game, the defensive assignments during the game, or just the boxscore?
Did Courtney Lee guard Kawhi? Why do you think Kawhi struggled?...

[milkyway21]

Enrique quit and faked an injury and the team played better without him :lmao

Whoa! that's so uncool !

Any Spur's injury is always a problem. I don't think he is faking it.

[wildchild]

It would serve them right if Leonard managed to leave this summer. I guess they'd like to go back to the Finley's and RJ's.
Well, I could laugh so hard when they blame the team 'cause Kawhi plays in a WC contender against us...

[wildchild]

Did Courtney Lee guard Kawhi?
Well, if you watched the game, you would know the answer.


Why do you think Kawhi struggled?...
You will call every explanation for why Kawhi played so well the first quarter and then he wasn't involved, an excuse...

[apalisoc_9]

Kawhi will only be the player we want him to be in the post big 3 era...too many factors holding him down. Even though he probably is already the team's best player

[TheGreatYacht]

Well, if you watched the game, you would know the answer.
I want you to say it, not swerve it... Who guarded Kawhi?


You will call every explanation for why Kawhi played so well the first quarter and then he wasn't involved, an excuse...
He played awful. There's nothing else to say

[spurraider21]

Kawhi will only be the player we want him to be in the post big 3 era...too many factors holding him down. Even though he probably is already the team's best player
the main factor holding him down today was tayshaun prince :lol

[SnakeBoy]

there's no "if"... leonard will be a spur. the only question is if he accepts the spurs max offer or a shorter-term offer sheet like Parsons

There is no "if". Spurs will offer the max and Kawhi will take it.

[spurraider21]

There is no "if". Spurs will offer the max and Kawhi will take it.
its one of the more realistic scenarios. but they aren't going to immediately re-sign him anyway. they are going to fill up the leftover cap room first, and you never know exactly how long that will take. 2 days into free agency? 5? 7? if Kawhi or his agent get antsy, they could sign an offer sheet in the meantime

[wildchild]

I want you to say it, not swerve it... Who guarded Kawhi?
You mistake me for someone who cares what you want.


He played awful. There's nothing else to say
I expect nothing less than the easier/stupid thing to say from you.

[TheGreatYacht]

You mistake me for someone who cares what you want.


I expect nothing less than the easier/stupid thing to say from you.
We both know you ain't tough, now carry on... What was the point of quoting me first, again? God damn you're retarded :lol

[wildchild]

We both know you ain't tough...
And you say that you know me...


What was the point of quoting me first, again? God damn you're retarded
If a guy needs people to explain the obvious...who's the retarded?.

[#2!]

Those are easy shots for him, low % for others, easy for him, hell everything this guy shoots is high %.

The way the pictures in your sig are lined up it looks as though the people in the front row are giants.

[Splits]

its one of the more realistic scenarios. but they aren't going to immediately re-sign him anyway. they are going to fill up the leftover cap room first, and you never know exactly how long that will take. 2 days into free agency? 5? 7? if Kawhi or his agent get antsy, they could sign an offer sheet in the meantime

Only guy who may be on his way out is Kawhi's agent. Dude has already publicly said he wants to retire a Spur. We're in that rare cap-loophole situation next year where we can spend because our max guy is an RFA coming off his rookie contract. Only question is if Holt will reach deep

[spurraider21]

Only guy who may be on his way out is Kawhi's agent. Dude has already publicly said he wants to retire a Spur. We're in that rare cap-loophole situation next year where we can spend because our max guy is an RFA coming off his rookie contract. Only question is if Holt will reach deep
the extra cap room won't have any impact if Duncan and Manu return... the only time the loophole comes into play is if those guys hang them up (or if they're retarded and play for even less under market value). if those guys retire, i think Holt will pay up to try to keep the team relevant. we wouldn't be in tax range anyway, if im not mistaken. we'd be about 7 mil over the cap

[apalisoc_9]

Pop was on to something...

[TheGreatYacht]

:lmao

[milkyway21]

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2014/12/2/7319459/kawhi-leonard-san-antonio-spurs-gregg-popovich



35 ppg incoming. :hat.

Dated 12/2/2014 the month when the struggle started...

Big responsibility on his shoulders.
And Kawhi is not yet the prime Duncan.

This is team sport there shouldn't be a leader. Everybody has his own role.

[mkurts]

I don't think Kawhi will ever be close to prime Duncan

[cd021]

I don't think Kawhi will ever be close to prime Duncan

His ceiling is probably a second option or a really good 3rd option. I could 18 ppg, 7 rpg, & 2 spg type numbers in his prime

[spurraider21]

His ceiling is probably a second option or a really good 3rd option. I could 18 ppg, 7 rpg, & 2 spg type numbers in his prime
i mean, he's averaging 16 ppg, 7.6 rpg, & 2 spg numbers right now

so you're saying his prime is basically right now + one more basket

[cd021]

i mean, he's averaging 16 ppg, 7.6 rpg, & 2 spg numbers right now

so you're saying his prime is basically right now + one more basket

I don't think he's going to become a consistent 20 ppg scorer, year to year. I think he will score in the high teens per game for most of his prime and 8.5 rebounds is probably closer in terms of rebounding.

[hater]

Matrix v2.0 :tu

[Budkin]

Damn, you guys turn on people quick.

[Cry Havoc]

Damn, you guys turn on people quick.

r9uizdKZAGE

It's really fucking sad to see. Spurstalk used to have real fans posting occasionally, but the trolls drove them out.

[DMC]

I don't think Kawhi will ever be close to prime Duncan

No one will in our lifetimes.

[Spur-Addict]

He's only 23 years old.

[DMC]

He's only 23 years old.

He's near his athletic zenith however. He could improve his shot, shot selection and understanding of the game. He won't improve most other areas and could and likely will regress physically as injuries mount.

[r0drig0lac]

it is the world's best perimeter defender, he has ceiling superstar, if can bring the offensive side

[Spur-Addict]

He's near his athletic zenith however. He could improve his shot, shot selection and understanding of the game. He won't improve most other areas and could and likely will regress physically as injuries mount.

True. But when the regression occurs could be 6, 7 years from now. His touch however likely will improve, and particularly his post game. His shot has come a long way over the last few years. I wouldn't exactly call him a "High-Flyer", his athleticism is most utilized defensively IMO.

[hater]

it is the world's best perimeter defender, he has ceiling superstar, if can bring the offensive side

same thing was said about young Matrix tbh

[dabom]

same thing was said about young Matrix tbh

Does young matrix have a FMVP? by his 3rd season?

[hater]

Does young matrix have a FMVP? by his 3rd season?

don't remember Suns reaching the finals tbh....

[dabom]

don't remember Suns reaching the finals tbh....

thanks. tbh

[hater]

23 year old Marion
19ppg
10rpg
2apg
47% FG
40% 3pt


Kawhi
16ppg
7rpg
2apg
45% FG
34% 3pt

[dabom]

23 year old Marion
19ppg
10rpg
2apg
47% FG
40% 3pt


Kawhi
16ppg
7rpg
2apg
45% FG
34% 3pt




one plays 40 mins and the other 30 mins.

if u use per 36 numbers they are identical.

Then if you look at their WS/48 for the first three years of playoffs kawhi has .184WS/48 and marion has a 0.092WS/48. Dam seems like marion shrunk in the playoffs considerably. Like from allstar to chump.
NEXT!!!!!

[apalisoc_9]

one plays 40 mins and the other 30 mins.

if u use per 36 numbers they are identical.

Then if you look at their WS/48 for the first three years of playoffs kawhi has .184WS/48 and marion has a 0.092WS/48. Dam seems like marion shrunk in the playoffs considerably. Like from allstar to chump.
NEXT!!!!!

Kawhi elvates his game to a new level in the playoffs..This has happened every year since his rookie year.

[dabom]

Kawhi elvates his game to a new level in the playoffs..This has happened every year since his rookie year.

I know man. Some people just can't see that kawhi is in another stratosphere.

[hater]

one plays 40 mins and the other 30 mins.

if u use per 36 numbers they are identical.

:lol in what dimension is 45% vs 47% and 40% vs 34% identical??




Then if you look at their WS/48 for the first three years of playoffs kawhi has .184WS/48 and marion has a 0.092WS/48. Dam seems like marion shrunk in the playoffs considerably. Like from allstar to chump.
NEXT!!!!!

:lol why do ppl get upset when I call Kawhi the next Matrix? that is a huge compliment. we wish we could be that lucky. Can you imagine if Kawhi ever reaches prime Marion level?
23pts 11.8reb 1.7blk on 52.5% shooting with a PER of 23.6

:wow

[dabom]

:lol in what dimension is 45% vs 47% and 40% vs 34% identical??




:lol why do ppl get upset when I call Kawhi the next Matrix? that is a huge compliment. we wish we could be that lucky. Can you imagine if Kawhi ever reaches prime Marion level?
23pts 11.8reb 1.7blk on 52.5% shooting with a PER of 23.6

:wow

Prime marion never showed up in the playoffs. :lmao

Thanks for the laughs. :lol

[hater]

Prime marion never showed up in the playoffs. :lmao

comparing Pop' to Dantonio playoff systems :lol

[dabom]

comparing Pop' to Dantonio playoff systems :lol

He was worse with rick carlisle. :lmao

[hater]

He was worse with rick carlisle. :lmao

:rolleyes he was also 32 :rolleyes

[hater]

so now we gotta wait till April to see the real MVP Kawhi :lmao

Kawhitards :lol

[dabom]

so now we gotta wait till April to see the real MVP Kawhi :lmao

Kawhitards :lol

enriquetards :lmao

[PingPong]

Toronto is just a (rare) bad match for Kiwi. He isn't the smartest guy in the team, at least isn't in the same level as Boris, Splitter, Manu, or even Fagnelli. But he can improve his fundamentals and be a great #2 or #3 player in a contender Spurs. But he can't lead shit to a championship. The Spurs won in 2014 because it was a well oiled machine, not because someone led the team.

[DMC]

The "we love Kawhi" trolling is another example of shitty alt name takes tbh.

[ohmwrecker]

http://calvinwritersonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Sean-Connery-Finding-Forrester.jpg

[ElNono]

Prime marion never showed up in the playoffs. :lmao

Thanks for the laughs. :lol

Not to mention that if you don't post amazing offensive numbers while D'Antoni is your coach, you might as well be out of the league. :lol

Qu:lolntin Rich:lolrds:loln looked like a borderline All Star with Pringles...

Few players are as overrated as Marion, tbh...

[hater]

The "we love Kawhi" trolling is another example of shitty alt name takes tbh.

:lol

[dabom]

The "we love Kawhi" trolling is another example of shitty alt name takes tbh.

Shutup faggot.

[TheGreatYacht]

23 year old Marion
19ppg
10rpg
2apg
47% FG
40% 3pt


Kawhi
16ppg
7rpg
2apg
45% FG
34% 3pt



Damn :lol

But this is only his 4th season, he'll reach his full potential by his 10th season watch :cry

[TheGreatYacht]

The "we love Kawhi" trolling is another example of shitty alt name takes tbh.
Yea, they mad :lmao

[dabom]

Greatfaggot "trying" to troll. :tu

D-

Maybe next time. :lol

[Kool Bob Love]

Spurs are screwed if they max him out. :depressed

Hes putting up these numbers playing with the greatest pf and 2 of the best gurads the NBA has ever seen.

its gonna get very ugly for kawhi when the trio retires.

[FkLA]

At 23 years old for both...

http://i.imgur.com/LVGUNwf.png?1

[Cry Havoc]

23 year old Marion
19ppg
10rpg
2apg
47% FG
40% 3pt


Kawhi
16ppg
7rpg
2apg
45% FG
34% 3pt



Kawhi in that no defense 108ppg Suns system with Nash at point would be getting at LEAST 20 PPG. Probably averaging 20-10 with more blocks than he does now, since he'd be covering for Nash constantly and getting a lot of opportunities for blocks.

[pgardn]

I know man. Some people just can't see that kawhi is in another stratosphere.

We don't have any players in another stratosphere numnuts.

He is by far the most athletic player on our team. But the kid has quite a ways to go. There is so much he can improve on.

[DMC]

We don't have any players in another stratosphere numnuts.

He is by far the most athletic player on our team. But the kid has quite a ways to go. There is so much he can improve on.

Yeah they are too stupid to not step on their own dicks with these troll attempts. They go overboard and ruin the entire schtick.

[Brazil]

Yeah they are too stupid to not step on their own dicks with these troll attempts. They go overboard and ruin the entire schtick.

ST trolling is as good as TP penetrations nowadays

[sook]

:lmao

[DMC]

ST trolling is as good as TP penetrations nowadays
It's always been shitty, just that there were some good ones as well once upon a time when certain people had their thread starting privileges revoked. You still see the same posters starting thread after thread saying the same stupid shit. One talks about farts and taking a shit, all the time, and the others are either sucking off Manu or sucking off Tony, depending on how their mouths angle.

[Brazil]

It's always been shitty, just that there were some good ones as well once upon a time when certain people had their thread starting privileges revoked. You still see the same posters starting thread after thread saying the same stupid shit. One talks about farts and taking a shit, all the time, and the others are either sucking off Manu or sucking off Tony, depending on how their mouths angle.

Problem is on the quantity imo. The Parker schtick is nice tbh but even a vet like Harlem is over using it same with Kawhi... Only poster who does that pretty nicely is ElNono, his subtle is sometimes too evident but overall he is playing his game properly. FkLA was the best Parker hater imo for a long time but probably the smell of the blood makes him go crazy which is killing it.

[dabom]

ST trolling is as good as TP penetrations nowadays

:lmao

[dabom]

It's always been shitty, just that there were some good ones as well once upon a time when certain people had their thread starting privileges revoked. You still see the same posters starting thread after thread saying the same stupid shit. One talks about farts and taking a shit, all the time, and the others are either sucking off Manu or sucking off Tony, depending on how their mouths angle.

I could have sworn I've seen this shitty take atleast 100 times this last week. Stop hitting refresh faggot.

[hitmanyr2k]

:lol why do ppl get upset when I call Kawhi the next Matrix? that is a huge compliment. we wish we could be that lucky. Can you imagine if Kawhi ever reaches prime Marion level?
23pts 11.8reb 1.7blk on 52.5% shooting with a PER of 23.6

:wow

That's not much of a compliment to be honest. Shawn Marion's numbers have always been deceiving. He sometimes had first/second option numbers but if you actually watched him play you knew he was anything but. He was the ultimate garbageman with average offensive skills. Wasn't much of a ball-handler or a creator. He had the benefit of playing in a free-flowing uptempo offense with some good/great point guards (Marbury, Kidd, Nash) where he used his athleticism and ran the floor hard for layups/dunks and occasionally spotted up for wide open shots since defenses never really keyed on him. He wasn't a player you were going to throw the ball to and have him create for himself or anyone else. His impact was from sheer hustle and athleticism rather than skill. I consider Marion a good 3rd, maybe 4th option on a championship team and hopefully Kawhi can turn out better than that.

[ElNono]

That's not much of a compliment to be honest. Shawn Marion's numbers have always been deceiving. He sometimes had first/second option numbers but if you actually watched him play you knew he was anything but. He was the ultimate garbageman with average offensive skills. Wasn't much of a ball-handler or a creator. He had the benefit of playing in a free-flowing uptempo offense with some good/great point guards (Marbury, Kidd, Nash) where he used his athleticism and ran the floor hard for layups/dunks and occasionally spotted up for wide open shots since defenses never really keyed on him. He wasn't a player you were going to throw the ball to and have him create for himself or anyone else. His impact was from sheer hustle and athleticism rather than skill. I consider Marion a good 3rd, maybe 4th option on a championship team and hopefully Kawhi can turn out better than that.

BOOM

[Hoops Czar]

It's always been shitty, just that there were some good ones as well once upon a time when certain people had their thread starting privileges revoked. You still see the same posters starting thread after thread saying the same stupid shit. One talks about farts and taking a shit, all the time, and the others are either sucking off Manu or sucking off Tony, depending on how their mouths angle.

And then there's dabom.

[dabom]

And then there's dabom.

Rent free.

[barbacoataco]

Leonard just doesn't have a complete offensive game right now. He might in 2-3 years, but not right now. The top scorers in the league are able to bring it almost every night. He is an all around great player and he has a huge impact on the game. But if Parker is finished as a #1 scoring opton, Leonard will have to step up.

[spurraider21]

Problem is on the quantity imo. The Parker schtick is nice tbh but even a vet like Harlem is over using it same with Kawhi... Only poster who does that pretty nicely is ElNono, his subtle is sometimes too evident but overall he is playing his game properly. FkLA was the best Parker hater imo for a long time but probably the smell of the blood makes him go crazy which is killing it.
ElNono doesn't troll. He's just here to talk basketball.



















:lol

[barbacoataco]

I have been on this board since 2007 and I read it for awhile before that without joining. The quality has gone down steadily of course but there still are enough good people to make it worth it.

[TheGreatYacht]

The Big 1 for 11

[dabom]

Ya going to be sucking his dick come playoff though.

[Va Spur]

Give me a break-- dude-- did you not enjoy the 2014 title of which Kawhi Leonard was the MVP not shawn marion.

A bad game versus a slightly below All-star career. Even if Kawhi never does anything else-- he's accomplished more than marion

why can't spurs fans enjoy the run

[Silver&Black]

You're only as good as your last game.....Such is life in Spurstalk.

[Va Spur]

You're only as good as your last game.....Such is life in Spurstalk.

No freaking kidding. Spurs fans have a nanosecond of memory-- like memento 2

[apalisoc_9]

lol at people wanting to relegate leonard to a defensive player.

:lmao

Who is the big One?

[K...]

lol at people wanting to relegate leonard to a defensive player.

:lmao

Who is the big One?

Huh, give us your expected output of lma since you predicted kawhi already

[Cry Havoc]

Weird how I apparently hate Kawhi yet created this thread. So strange.

[apalisoc_9]

Averaging 20 points a game in the last three months but all of a sudden

" Kawhi should just F on D"

:lmao

[Kool Bob Love]

He sure is the big one Pop.

https://bendavidwong.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/screen-shot-2013-06-22-at-7-03-40-pm.png

[Silver&Black]

Weird how I apparently hate Kawhi yet created this thread. So strange.

Yeah, I know. You've said one nice thing about Parker before....so you know who automatically assumes that you must therefore hate Kawhi.

It's called player fan logic. I don't quite fully understand it either.

[K...]

Averaging 20 points a game in the last three months but all of a sudden

" Kawhi should just F on D"

:lmao

What part of signing a.franchise big don't you understand? Which is better to relegate lma to defense and spot up shooting while kawhi goes iso, or having lma be the primary scorer and hub of offense while kawhi focuses on defense, or some mixed version where we exploit matchups?


Player fans get to pick the first two options, team fans understand that the offense could radically change. Apo thinks this'll lead to mvkawhi but he hasn't acknowledged the new S.A. Bigs both of which can shoot. We don't need kawhi to be mvp. Let him focus on his junkman role.

[TheGreatYacht]

Such a "big 1" that Pop and the front office had to go and try their hardest to recruit a real alpha this summer :wakeup

[ducks]

Such a "big 1" that Pop and the front office had to go and try their hardest to recruit a real alpha this summer :wakeup

:lol

[apalisoc_9]

Aldridge an Alpha?

:lol

He been getting cuked by every PG/SG in Portland. Brandon Roy :lol

Kawhi is the franchise.

Kawhi is the best defender and will average 20.

That's the best player

[K...]

Aldridge an Alpha?

:lol

He been getting cuked by every PG/SG in Portland. Brandon Roy :lol

Kawhi is the franchise.

Kawhi is the best defender and will average 20.

That's the best player

wow so analysis. Great basketball mind.




What will LMA average?

[timtonymanu]

Such a "big 1" that Pop and the front office had to go and try their hardest to recruit a real alpha this summer :wakeup

lmao

[TheGreatYacht]

Cute little regular season player :tu

[PopTheGOAT]

:lol in what dimension is 45% vs 47% and 40% vs 34% identical??




:lol why do ppl get upset when I call Kawhi the next Matrix? that is a huge compliment. we wish we could be that lucky. Can you imagine if Kawhi ever reaches prime Marion level?
23pts 11.8reb 1.7blk on 52.5% shooting with a PER of 23.6

:wow
Can you imagine? :wow

:lol

[PopTheGOAT]

Cute little regular season player :tu
http://m.quickmeme.com/img/b9/b9f97e0bbbabe483d4784df8cc5107e73fdc80d9c247da0317 e8196015d3eb0b.jpg