Vicaroge of Jonathon Simmons

[SnakeBoy]

Didn't see this posted anywhere...

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2535158-is-jonathan-simmons-the-san-antonio-spurs-latest-diamond-in-the-rough

[SilverSpur]

I've watched most of the summer league games, and I'm reading this thread and trying figure out if you guys are being sarcastic or not... Eddie Jones, Jimmy Butler, Tony Allen... the comparisons are insane... it's summer league... we talkin summer league... not a game... we talkin summer league!

I agree , comparisons are way out there.

[TheDoctor]

Didn't see this posted anywhere...

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2535158-is-jonathan-simmons-the-san-antonio-spurs-latest-diamond-in-the-rough

Nice find. Thx for sharing it.

[Gladney to see you]

I'm guessing his value is in defending more than one position? It isn't shooting.

[TheDoctor]

Mood:

623335776479150082

[DJR210]

:worthy:

[Dex]

Didn't see this posted anywhere...

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2535158-is-jonathan-simmons-the-san-antonio-spurs-latest-diamond-in-the-rough

:hungry:

Excited to see the development of both Simmons and Anderson over the next season or two.

This is easily one of my most anticipated Spurs seasons. To see the old team coming back with a chip on their shoulder, see how the new pieces fit, see how the young guys develop....it's gonna be a fun season!

Still three months away UGGGHHHH!!!

[Dingle Barry]

He may have a higher vertical than Manu but at his age (26) was quicker than Simmons and a much better overall player. I mean, when Simmons can score 24 straight points VS an actual NBA team or do THIS (https://youtu.be/8uoGnzDLDAU?t=5m30s) to above-average defenders (Matrix & Stat) we can talk :toast

Did you really just call Amare Stoudemire an above average defender? :lol

[ceperez]

Lots of monster blocks!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmopEELDl9o

[kobyz]

Lots of monster blocks!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmopEELDl9o

Iggy type athleticism...

[ceperez]

Iggy type athleticism...

Compare the numbers:

Igoudola:

2004 NBA Pre-Draft Camp 6' 5.75" 6' 6.75" 217 6' 11" 8' 9.5" NA 30.5 34.5

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/#ixzz3hf3J61Z9

Simmons
2015 D-League Elite Camp 6' 4.5" 6' 5.75" 204 6' 7.5" 8' 5.5" NA 30.5 38.0

From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/#ixzz3hf3cchzG

Leonard

2011 NBA Draft Combine 6' 6" 6' 7" 227 7' 3" 8' 10" 5.4 25.5 32.0


From DraftExpress.com http://www.draftexpress.com/#ixzz3hf4LU5Dt
http://www.draftexpress.com


Iggy is bigger and longer... but less hops.

[Spurtacular]

At this point, I'm more optimistic about Simmons than I am Anderson, tbh.

[dweaver99027]

Hmmm. After last year's McDermott SL showing, I'd rather hold my excitement back. Eye-test says this guy has NBA-translateable skills, though.

[ceperez]

Hmmm. After last year's McDermott SL showing, I'd rather hold my excitement back. Eye-test says this guy has NBA-translateable skills, though.

Non-believer needs a dose of this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWD9Cw45ys0

nothing but praise from Isaiah Thomas

[dweaver99027]

Because... dunking ability will make him a useful rotation player? I'm 50/50 on whether he'll pan out or not, and dunking has little to do with my assessment.

[ceperez]

Because... dunking ability will make him a useful rotation player? I'm 50/50 on whether he'll pan out or not, and dunking has little to do with my assessment.

Do you have blinders on? Watch the assists and layups in this video:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXvh18GGkpw

Notice how he's doing it in traffic. Also pay particular attention to which hand he's using to finish the play.

http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/065/007/popedeathstarye3.jpg

[dweaver99027]

The video in your original post was just a couple great dunks. As I said before , he seems to have translateable skills like the ones you mention, but SL and DL competition only makes me wary. Still 50/50 on him.

[dgspursforlife]

I doubt he gets a guaranteed contract if the FO doesn't think he can produce in some way. And his play in DL/SL is certainly not scrub lvl

[ceperez]

I doubt he gets a guaranteed contract if the FO doesn't think he can produce in some way. And his play in DL/SL is certainly not scrub lvl

Who's the last d-league guy the Spurs gave a one year guaranteed contract? Was it Danny Green?

[wildbill2u]

I think a lot of us who watched most of the SL games feel he has some skill sets that the Spurs can use this year. He can already play better defense that KA and that skill will get him some minutes on the floor. For a undrafted rookie, being able to play good defense is the most marketable skill he can use to impress the coaching staff.

[dgspursforlife]

Who's the last d-league guy the Spurs gave a one year guaranteed contract? Was it Danny Green?
I believe his first fully guaranteed contract was the one he signed in 2012.

[Ice009]

I think a lot of us who watched most of the SL games feel he has some skill sets that the Spurs can use this year. He can already play better defense that KA and that skill will get him some minutes on the floor. For a undrafted rookie, being able to play good defense is the most marketable skill he can use to impress the coaching staff.

That's what he needs to base his NBA game on IMO. Defense, that needs to be the core of his game and then go from there to offense. He needs to pattern himself a little bit after Danny Green and have a defense first mindset and let the offense come to him.

[ceperez]

That's what he needs to base his NBA game on IMO. Defense, that needs to be the core of his game and then go from there to offense. He needs to pattern himself a little bit after Danny Green and have a defense first mindset and let the offense come to him.

Going to be a big transition. In the D-League and in SL, playing PG, he would call plays for himself. He's the guy driving to the hoop and dishing out the assists.

Just like Leonard, Spurs aren't going to be calling any plays for him.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Going to be a big transition. In the D-League and in SL, playing PG, he would call plays for himself. He's the guy driving to the hoop and dishing out the assists.

Just like Leonard, Spurs aren't going to be calling any plays for him.

Hopefully the Spurs will put the ball in his hands a little bit more. I'd like them to try using him a little like they use Manu when he's in the game.

[ceperez]

Hopefully the Spurs will put the ball in his hands a little bit more. I'd like them to try using him a little like they use Manu when he's in the game.

You would think so. But with Manu on the court at the same time as Simmons, guess who'll be handling the ball?

Best chance Simmon is to play like a Bruce Bowen / Tony Allen. Any offense is just icy on the cake. (such a waste of talent)

[sasaint]

You would think so. But with Manu on the court at the same time as Simmons, guess who'll be handling the ball?

Best chance Simmon is to play like a Bruce Bowen / Tony Allen. Any offense is just icy on the cake. (such a waste of talent)

Why do you think he and Manu will be on the floor at the same time? Judging by his skill set and the way Becky used him in SL, I think the Spurs see him as a versatile player along the lines of Manu. I see him more as a Manu apprentice and fill-in for Manu's DNPs. Granted, at this point his defense seems to be more NBA-ready than his offense. And his best offense is driving to the hole, but with Chip around, I don't rule out his developing a decent 3-pt shot. I'm really rooting for the guy, hoping he can max-out his potential.

[ceperez]

Why do you think he and Manu will be on the floor at the same time? Judging by his skill set and the way Becky used him in SL, I think the Spurs see him as a versatile player along the lines of Manu. I see him more as a Manu apprentice and fill-in for Manu's DNPs. Granted, at this point his defense seems to be more NBA-ready than his offense. And his best offense is driving to the hole, but with Chip around, I don't rule out his developing a decent 3-pt shot. I'm really rooting for the guy, hoping he can max-out his potential.

Why he's playing with Manu? That's because he's part of the 2nd unit. Unless you think he should start???!

So he needs to fit within the capabilities of who he's in the court with.

This would likely be:

Manu
Mills
Diaw
West

with the fourth slot replaceable with either: Anderson, Marjanovic or Simmons.

He's not going to have the kind of freedom he had in D-League or in SL.

There is of course the situation where Manu isn't playing. This is likely in the regular season.

[sasaint]

That's what he needs to base his NBA game on IMO. Defense, that needs to be the core of his game and then go from there to offense. He needs to pattern himself a little bit after Danny Green and have a defense first mindset and let the offense come to him.

I think you are right; he definitely has good defensive instincts. But he already shows far more potential than Danny for getting his own shot, especially going to the hole. But IMO, both Danny and Kawhi are great young role models for new guys hoping to become true Spurs. Concentrate on the D and Pop will be much more impressed. They need to take the O as it comes and not push it, but by the same token, being too passive will get you in the doghouse like Jefferson. If young players can walk that fine line, that shows the kind of judgment and maturity that Pop will reward.

[ceperez]

I think you are right; he definitely has good defensive instincts. But he already shows far more potential than Danny for getting his own shot, especially going to the hole. But IMO, both Danny and Kawhi are great young role models for new guys hoping to become true Spurs. Concentrate on the D and Pop will be much more impressed. They need to take the O as it comes and not push it, but by the same token, being too passive will get you in the doghouse like Jefferson. If young players can walk that fine line, that shows the kind of judgment and maturity that Pop will reward.

Foul free defense. Efficient offense.

His best offensive weapon is when he slashes to the basket. With his ability to use either hand, eurostep and use his incredible vertical. Add that his ability to score on a floater while receiving contact. Incredible offensive talent. Much better than the one-dimensional RJ that you reference.

Looking forward to see his game at the NBA level.

[sasaint]

Foul free defense. Efficient offense.

His best offensive weapon is when he slashes to the basket. With his ability to use either hand, eurostep and use his incredible vertical. Add that his ability to score on a floater while receiving contact. Incredible offensive talent. Much better than the one-dimensional RJ that you reference.

Looking forward to see his game at the NBA level.

I agree. I am very excited about Simmons' prospects. I only reference RJ because he became overly passive and deferential to the big 3. I don't see Simmons going that route.

I'm still not sure that I see him on the floor with Manu that much - especially in a lineup with Mills. Against most opponents I envision Anderson filling in the 5th slot in your second unit. I think McCallum may get some starts if Tony is a DNP for whatever reason. And I think Simmons slides into the spot you have designated for Manu when he gets a DNP. I think that's where most of Simmons' minutes will come.

[AFBlue]

I know the forum is excited about Simmons, as am I. But, I think he should spend the early part of the season smoothing out the rough edges of his gamelan Austin. He has tantalizing tools and athleticism, but I think just a bit more seasoning and a more ball-dominant role in Austin will pay serious dividends.

I like the kid a lot though. Might be tough to keep him on the bench if he continues to bring that intensity and versatility.

[ceperez]

I know the forum is excited about Simmons, as am I. But, I think he should spend the early part of the season smoothing out the rough edges of his gamelan Austin. He has tantalizing tools and athleticism, but I think just a bit more seasoning and a more ball-dominant role in Austin will pay serious dividends.

I like the kid a lot though. Might be tough to keep him on the bench if he continues to bring that intensity and versatility.

He's going to get every opportunity when Manu has a DNP.

If he gets better with his ball handling skills then he could also replace McCallum's spot. Nobody is going to argue that CoJo is better than Simmons.

[steeledl]

I see Simmons taking manus minutes by seasons end tbh.

[ceperez]

I know the forum is excited about Simmons, as am I. But, I think he should spend the early part of the season smoothing out the rough edges of his gamelan Austin. He has tantalizing tools and athleticism, but I think just a bit more seasoning and a more ball-dominant role in Austin will pay serious dividends.

I like the kid a lot though. Might be tough to keep him on the bench if he continues to bring that intensity and versatility.

He's just a rookie and in a team like the Spurs that's loaded with talent, they just don't pin their championship hope on a rookie.

[SAGirl]

I agree. I am very excited about Simmons' prospects. I only reference RJ because he became overly passive and deferential to the big 3. I don't see Simmons going that route.

I'm still not sure that I see him on the floor with Manu that much - especially in a lineup with Mills. Against most opponents I envision Anderson filling in the 5th slot in your second unit. I think McCallum may get some starts if Tony is a DNP for whatever reason. And I think Simmons slides into the spot you have designated for Manu when he gets a DNP. I think that's where most of Simmons' minutes will come.
This is also what I think. I don't envision him sharing the lineup with Manu regularly. I think Anderson will get whatever small minutes of backup SF are available. But Simmons will get chances to play when Manu has DNP or there are injuries. Anderson ended up playing 33 games last season just on injuries and rest days alone, without ever having the smallest chance at the rotation last year. I think this year Anderson plays more and Simmons goes the rookie route: learning by observing and getting the most out of your opportunities. Anderson has a different game than both Manu and Simmons, so he is a good pairing with either, he has size, rebounding and is a good help defender. He also brings playmaking with a different style likely to give the bench different options than just a PnR, such as opportunities pushing the offense from rebounds in transition, a strength of Anderson's, etc.
I do think Simmons has the potential to carry that bench with Mills and Anderson when Manu sits and hopefully develop into a rotation piece for when Manu retires, but we'll see.

[Ice009]

Well, I for one, hope Simmons' game translates and he plays more than only on days when Manu sits.

Manu became my second favorite player in his prime, or even at a time almost equal favorite (1B) next to Tim because of his driving game and taking it to the rack hard (which I love that type of game) and I see similarities with Simmons' game, so I really want him on the court if he can play his game on the next level.

Obviously there is other things in Manu's game such as his passion, fire, determination, fearlessness that made me a huge fan of his, but Simmons has some similarities that get me a little excited.

I really still do think this team needs a player/s that can get to the rim and finish since that isn't a huge part of Manu's game anymore. With TP not being able to do it last season, the team was really lacking that type of player. I was hoping Kawhi would be able to do it last season, but for whatever reason he didn't drive it much. Not sure if that's because of his handles or if he felt that a jumper was a better option for him. Hopefully this season Kawhi and also Danny can start getting to the rack more and finishing or getting fouled.

[ceperez]

Well, I for one, hope Simmons' game translates and he plays more than only on days when Manu sits.

Manu became my second favorite player in his prime, or even at a time almost equal favorite (1B) next to Tim because of his driving game and taking it to the rack hard (which I love that type of game) and I see similarities with Simmons' game, so I really want him on the court if he can play his game on the next level.

Obviously there is other things in Manu's game such as his passion, fire, determination, fearlessness that made me a huge fan of his, but Simmons has some similarities that get me a little excited.

I really still do think this team needs a player/s that can get to the rim and finish since that isn't a huge part of Manu's game anymore. With TP not being able to do it last season, the team was really lacking that type of player. I was hoping Kawhi would be able to do it last season, but for whatever reason he didn't drive it much. Not sure if that's because of his handles or if he felt that a jumper was a better option for him. Hopefully this season Kawhi and also Danny can start getting to the rack more and finishing or getting fouled.

I'm not going to build up any expectations that Danny can start getting to the rack. He's not the kind of player that seems capable of improvising.

Simmons can improvise in the lane, he has rare combination of athleticism and improvisation while in attacking the rim. He's ambidextrous, that's a tremendous advantage when you can go strong either side.

It indeed is surprising that a player this good just drops into the lap of the Spurs. He wasn't even drafted and didn't even play in the D-league after college. Going to be a legendary rags to riches story.

[look_at_g_shred]

Really excited to see Simmons play against NBA talent!

[ChumpDumper]

I know the forum is excited about Simmons, as am I. But, I think he should spend the early part of the season smoothing out the rough edges of his gamelan Austin. He has tantalizing tools and athleticism, but I think just a bit more seasoning and a more ball-dominant role in Austin will pay serious dividends.

I like the kid a lot though. Might be tough to keep him on the bench if he continues to bring that intensity and versatility.Depends. If he plays at a high level in the preseason and the first three weeks there is no need to send him down. Operation preserve Manu could be fully implemented.

[littlecoyotecoin]

I know the forum is excited about Simmons, as am I. But, I think he should spend the early part of the season smoothing out the rough edges of his gamelan Austin. He has tantalizing tools and athleticism, but I think just a bit more seasoning and a more ball-dominant role in Austin will pay serious dividends.

I like the kid a lot though. Might be tough to keep him on the bench if he continues to bring that intensity and versatility.

He's already played two seasons in Austin. I am not so sure that him playing another 20-25 games up there at the beginning of the season are going to bring him along that much further than the 94 games he's already played. If no one is injured, and he's not getting playing time because he's in a suit behind the bench, then I'm all for shuttling him back and forth to Austin, some. But, given so many of our guys are 30+, I hope that we get them early rest days/DNPs, and I do not hope for, but fully expect injuries.

He's also not 21. He's an older, hopefully, more mature dude. I hope the opposite of you. I hope they find lots of opportunities to begin working him hard into the big Spurs, if they can. I want Tim, Manu, Tony, Boban, and maybe Patty (if his shoulder still is requiring any rest), to be rotating (not a cuff pun) in and out of suits whenever possible, just as a preventative. Bonner, too, for age and skill/depth reasons, all. God forbid an injury, and I think both Anderson and Simmons will both be suited (in uniform-not Barney Stinson-style) up many if not most nights?

Maybe I'm wrong, but I think he would learn a lot quicker in this situation. He has come a long way, obviously, playing for the Spurs-Austin, but after a couple of years, I would imagine that learning curve begins to flatten out a little, and you get some point of diminishing return. Like bacterial growth. Not exponential out to infinity, but a plateau. Probably learns more up here in a first year than down there for a third?

We've got several new pieces. They've all got to play a little to get acclimated with each other. It would seem you really want to do that early in the season, not late. When they screw up early, the vets can save their asses.

If Jimmer stays, or the guy that replaces him is not a Spurs-Austin guy (maybe even if he is, depending upon tenure), Jimmer or that dude may benefit the most from getting playing time in Austin just to learn the system a little bit. I don't know if Jimmer or McCallum would be sent, as they may see it as an affront. But, Daye was sent, and he was a 5 year vet, so it's not out of the question, I guess.

Maybe he ends up not being ready for the big leagues, but I hope he's good enough to get early and often burn, to allow Manu to rest as much as possible.

[SAGirl]

He's already played two seasons in Austin. I am not so sure that him playing another 20-25 games up there at the beginning of the season are going to bring him along that much further than the 94 games he's already played. If no one is injured, and he's not getting playing time because he's in a suit behind the bench, then I'm all for shuttling him back and forth to Austin, some. But, given so many of our guys are 30+, I hope that we get them early rest days/DNPs, and I do not hope for, but fully expect injuries.

He's also not 21. He's an older, hopefully, more mature dude. I hope the opposite of you. I hope they find lots of opportunities to begin working him hard into the big Spurs, if they can. I want Tim, Manu, Tony, Boban, and maybe Patty (if his shoulder still is requiring any rest), to be rotating (not a cuff pun) in and out of suits whenever possible, just as a preventative. Bonner, too, for age and skill/depth reasons, all. God forbid an injury, and I think both Anderson and Simmons will both be suited (in uniform-not Barney Stinson-style) up many if not most nights?

Maybe I'm wrong, but I think he would learn a lot quicker in this situation. He has come a long way, obviously, playing for the Spurs-Austin, but after a couple of years, I would imagine that learning curve begins to flatten out a little, and you get some point of diminishing return. Like bacterial growth. Not exponential out to infinity, but a plateau. Probably learns more up here in a first year than down there for a third?

We've got several new pieces. They've all got to play a little to get acclimated with each other. It would seem you really want to do that early in the season, not late. When they screw up early, the vets can save their asses.

If Jimmer stays, or the guy that replaces him is not a Spurs-Austin guy (maybe even if he is, depending upon tenure), Jimmer or that dude may benefit the most from getting playing time in Austin just to learn the system a little bit. I don't know if Jimmer or McCallum would be sent, as they may see it as an affront. But, Daye was sent, and he was a 5 year vet, so it's not out of the question, I guess.

Maybe he ends up not being ready for the big leagues, but I hope he's good enough to get early and often burn, to allow Manu to rest as much as possible.
I agree with you in that I don't see the purpose of sending him to Austin when he already played there 2 years. I could see him being sent down to keep his rythm and stuff like that if he's not playing for a stretch, but I suspect they will need him. LIke you, I don't wish injuries, but there are always some here or there. I think the challenge for Simmons is knowing his role and the team defensive schemes. I saw him get lost on defense even in the SL and Kyle pointing ou to him to rotate and stuff like that. He might go through phases like Danny did at the very beginning, where the athleticism and quickness is there on defense, but there are mental lapses, missed rotations, lack of closing out on shooters and stuff like that. He also might have a different role, and may need to sit on the bench to observe and learn. Kyle already went through that last year and his awareness in team defense is actually really good, his issue is athleticism, but most of the time he actually knows what he needs to do and where to be. I do think both guys will play, the wing depth will allow for minutes to both. Neither Manu nor Kawhi have played a full 82 season anyway for the past years.

[sasaint]

He's already played two seasons in Austin. I am not so sure that him playing another 20-25 games up there at the beginning of the season are going to bring him along that much further than the 94 games he's already played. If no one is injured, and he's not getting playing time because he's in a suit behind the bench, then I'm all for shuttling him back and forth to Austin, some. But, given so many of our guys are 30+, I hope that we get them early rest days/DNPs, and I do not hope for, but fully expect injuries.

He's also not 21. He's an older, hopefully, more mature dude. I hope the opposite of you. I hope they find lots of opportunities to begin working him hard into the big Spurs, if they can. I want Tim, Manu, Tony, Boban, and maybe Patty (if his shoulder still is requiring any rest), to be rotating (not a cuff pun) in and out of suits whenever possible, just as a preventative. Bonner, too, for age and skill/depth reasons, all. God forbid an injury, and I think both Anderson and Simmons will both be suited (in uniform-not Barney Stinson-style) up many if not most nights?

Maybe I'm wrong, but I think he would learn a lot quicker in this situation. He has come a long way, obviously, playing for the Spurs-Austin, but after a couple of years, I would imagine that learning curve begins to flatten out a little, and you get some point of diminishing return. Like bacterial growth. Not exponential out to infinity, but a plateau. Probably learns more up here in a first year than down there for a third?

We've got several new pieces. They've all got to play a little to get acclimated with each other. It would seem you really want to do that early in the season, not late.

Exactly. I believe Simmons, McCallum and Anderson will be given enough rope to hang themselves early. They are on the team, but they will be given every opportunity to play themselves out of the rotation (and out of San Antonio) before the trade deadline. The Spurs have to know what they have coming down the stretch and into the playoffs.

[ceperez]

Exactly. I believe Simmons, McCallum and Anderson will be given enough rope to hang themselves early. They are on the team, but they will be given every opportunity to play themselves out of the rotation (and out of San Antonio) before the trade deadline. The Spurs have to know what they have coming down the stretch and into the playoffs.

I agree. Spurs standards are pretty high. It is not enough to perform well in the regular season. Players have to deliver come playoff time.

[steeledl]

Simmons= Dwade.

[Silver&Black]

Can't believe I didn't check in yet....:pctoss

Hope one of you niggas saved your boy a seat.

[Dex]

623502268470587392

:drool:

[wildbill2u]

Simmons and Manu can work perfectly together because Manu will give him an assist pass as Simmons breaks for the basket every time. If he can move without the ball and catch a pass and finish half as well as he can dribble for a layup, they'll have a lot of fun playing pass, catch and score.

[The Whopper]

If you were Pop, wouldn't you limit Manus minutes before the All-Star Break A LOT? Simmons might have a chance early to earn his Spurs. That's what I would do. Manu needs to be fresh and ready for playoffs.

[Gladney to see you]

We won't know if he is any good until the end of the year.

[Fireball]

Anderson will be the first option to take some of Manu's minutes ... if he sucks, Simmons has a legitimate chance to get into the regular rotation.

[ace3g]

Happy Birthday

https://scontent-dfw1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtf1/v/t1.0-9/12019824_10153092883016981_7638915412714423548_n.j pg?oh=cf178cbbc3be4466cc75c8b24e05b172&oe=5666058E

[ElNono]

no wonder I like this guy, same birthday as me :D

[Robz4000]

no wonder I like this guy, same birthday as me :D

Happy b'day bruh. Hope you have a good one and your client sends you something nice.

[ElNono]

Happy b'day bruh. Hope you have a good one and your client sends you something nice.

Thanks Robz... not asking for much, tbh.... just another :lobt2: for the collection...

[TheGreatYacht]

no wonder I like this guy, same birthday as me :D
Happy bday bruh, your country still sucks tho

[ElNono]

Happy bday bruh, your country still sucks tho

thanks, pancho

[BillMc]

no wonder I like this guy, same birthday as me :D

Happy Birthday man!:bobo

[ElNono]

Happy Birthday man!:bobo

Thanks Bill! :toast

[Ice009]

Happy birthday man. To both of you!

[Manu-of-steel]

Happy birthday, EN!

[Manu-of-steel]

Also to mr simmons

[K...]

Might as well... Happy birthday to el jefe no-no, y el nuevo jugador de los spurs, el senor simmons

[ElNono]

Happy birthday man. To both of you!


Happy birthday, EN!


Might as well... Happy birthday to el jefe no-no, y el nuevo jugador de los spurs, el senor simmons

:toast








had to log into this account to tell ElNono ... come blow my candle clown

http://gifprint.s3.amazonaws.com/p/gif/81/8c1f6eb0b17e012f1793123138132b32.gif

[ceperez]

Check out this move: https://vine.co/v/izXKa2EiqAP

[SAGirl]

Check out this move: https://vine.co/v/izXKa2EiqAP
His explosion really shows up in that move. He has displayed better ballhandling than we saw in preseason, and he's always had his passing talent. Very encouraging.

[ceperez]

His explosion really shows up in that move. He has displayed better ballhandling than we saw in preseason, and he's always had his passing talent. Very encouraging.

That's one crazy move! The more unpredictable his moves the more chances he'll get uncontested layups. He's going to have to learn a lot from Tony and Manu. He has ridiculous athleticism that will compensate he will need to take it to the NBA level.

Spurs need to lock him up long term.

[SAGirl]

That's one crazy move! The more unpredictable his moves the more chances he'll get uncontested layups. He's going to have to learn a lot from Tony and Manu. He has ridiculous athleticism that will compensate he will need to take it to the NBA level.

Spurs need to lock him up long term.

I think he is here for 2 years (2nd year unguaranteed), and then a RFA the third year. I would like to see him more personally, but there is Rasual (who has been playing really well), then Kyle (who has had trouble finding minutes for himself, and he's already guranteed for another year, and a young player that needs minutes to develop at this stage, even if you eventually want to trade him).

Pop has also elected to play the duo of Patty/Tony a whole lot together when Manu is out, bumping Patty's minutes over 21 at the moment.

Pop has even been reluctant to play Ray, who has played a lot of NBA minutes already and is athletic and a threat from 3, with a nice midrange shot as well.

So with all of this, Simmons has found himself with barely a chance to play, and he won't play when everyone is healthy.

I am sure if Pop wanted to find minutes for Simmons he could scale Patty's minutes back a little bit when Manu is out, but the problem has been 3 point shooting, and Simmons is not a threat from 3. With Danny, Patty, Manu and Kawhi now getting into the flow offensively from three, I think Pop can incorporate him.

WE may have a lot of small ball ahead coming up, so I definitely think Simmons could help.

[ceperez]

I think he is here for 2 years (2nd year unguaranteed), and then a RFA the third year. I would like to see him more personally, but there is Rasual (who has been playing really well), then Kyle (who has had trouble finding minutes for himself, and he's already guranteed for another year, and a young player that needs minutes to develop at this stage, even if you eventually want to trade him).

Pop has also elected to play the duo of Patty/Tony a whole lot together when Manu is out, bumping Patty's minutes over 21 at the moment.

Pop has even been reluctant to play Ray, who has played a lot of NBA minutes already and is athletic and a threat from 3, with a nice midrange shot as well.

So with all of this, Simmons has found himself with barely a chance to play, and he won't play when everyone is healthy.

I am sure if Pop wanted to find minutes for Simmons he could scale Patty's minutes back a little bit when Manu is out, but the problem has been 3 point shooting, and Simmons is not a threat from 3. With Danny, Patty, Manu and Kawhi now getting into the flow offensively from three, I think Pop can incorporate him.

WE may have a lot of small ball ahead coming up, so I definitely think Simmons could help.

I'm surprised how little time Ray has played. Last game he played a bit over one minute. Ray is likely just insurance when either Parker or Patty are injured.

I like the fact that Pop is experimenting with Boban and Simmons and playing them with the regular guys.

[cheguevara]

this guy is a legit NBA player. WOW

amazing

[TXstbobcat]

Simmons had a good game tonight

[Silver&Black]

Started off slow IIRC (air balled a wide open corner 3)....

Then turned it on. Good game overall for our Summer League Finals Game MVP.

[r0drig0lac]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/bobo.gif

[loveforthegame]

Gave some good minutes tonight. :tu

[siraulo23]

if simmons can be a consistent shooter, he can definitely crack the rotation and give the spurs good minutes when manu is struggling or not playing

[KL2]

He had a very good game, he had a few mistakes out there, but that's what you expect from a rookie. He played some solid defense on Barton at times, boxed out well, made passes, did a bit of everything out there. I think he also made 2 3's? He needs to knock down his open looks at a respectable rate, his slashing ability is legit.

Anderson-Simmons were nice on defense, when you pair them with Green or Leonard they really work well off them as their defensive role is lessened. Seems like a very effective defense to counter small ball lineups.

[SAGirl]

He had a very good game, he had a few mistakes out there, but that's what you expect from a rookie. He played some solid defense on Barton at times, boxed out well, made passes, did a bit of everything out there. I think he also made 2 3's? He needs to knock down his open looks at a respectable rate, his slashing ability is legit.

Anderson-Simmons were nice on defense, when you pair them with Green or Leonard they really work well off them as their defensive role is lessened. Seems like a very effective defense to counter small ball lineups.

Agree with you. I definitely think he has potential, and some mistakes are rookie mistakes.

Needs to look at film, learn and get better. I like him with Anderson bc he supplements Anderson's lack of athleticism, and the chemistry they have from playing in the dleague and SL together shows. He played some minutes with Kawhi, and Kawhi found him cutting to the basket. Overall, I like what he provides and would like to see him more when Manu sits, and maybe even in uniform when we expect to play a lot of small ball.

He can only get better from here. Good game from him.

[HarlemHeat37]

He had a very good game, he had a few mistakes out there, but that's what you expect from a rookie. He played some solid defense on Barton at times, boxed out well, made passes, did a bit of everything out there. I think he also made 2 3's? He needs to knock down his open looks at a respectable rate, his slashing ability is legit.

Anderson-Simmons were nice on defense, when you pair them with Green or Leonard they really work well off them as their defensive role is lessened. Seems like a very effective defense to counter small ball lineups.

I thought his team defense was awful, tbh, but nice energy, otherwise..

Anderson continues to impress me, though, not sure why Pop doesn't trust him, at all..

[KL2]

I thought his team defense was awful, tbh, but nice energy, otherwise..

Anderson continues to impress me, though, not sure why Pop doesn't trust him, at all..

It was, he was lost out there at times, I liked his individual defense on Barton though, he did a good job of denying him the ball and staying in front of him. I feel better with him as a 3rd defender with Green-Leonard out there.

Anderson's defense is nice too, he's got a Leonard like effect with his length, when he closes out on 3pt shooters he does a good job of contesting their shots just from his reach, really hard to shoot over. I wouldn't mind seeing him against GS, that length could bother the shooters.

I think Pop's been reluctant to play him due to his lack of 3pt shooting, it's a shame he's shooting so bad from 3, his shot hasn't looked good from there idk if he can improve it this year.

[SAGirl]

I thought his team defense was awful, tbh, but nice energy, otherwise..

Anderson continues to impress me, though, not sure why Pop doesn't trust him, at all..
Anderson's BBIQ shows the most in his team defense.
He didn't score a whole lot or had the highlight plays, but he was in whenever we made a run, that is why he has such a high +/- in this game. Even when others were scoring, he was doing all the little things (like Pop says) that wins us games. I am sure it does not go unseen by Pop. Pop loves all those little things that wins us games and will continue to be strict with him to make him better.

Simmons is super athletic, but he does get lost on D. He's not so aware of what's going on. I have seen that every game he has played, but if you talk on D it helps and I really think that them together are really good as a group.

[Kawhitstorm]

-Kawhi was looking for him & Simmons made himself available when Kawhi was getting doubled...seems like they have a nice chemistry from scrimmage
-Danny was directing him on both offense/defense so he still isn't sure about his positioning on the floor which is part of the reason he looks hesitant (his performance will improve when he gets comfortable playing in the system)
-Seems like the spin move is his signature, players don't care about his scouting report so he's going to get a couple of scalps w/ that move:lol

[NASpurs]

http://youtu.be/Z9TiHdRuIkI

[SAGirl]

http://youtu.be/Z9TiHdRuIkI
Amazing how all of his highlights come assisted by Kawhi or with Kawhi on the floor. I am thinking his most natural position really is SG.

[ceperez]

Amazing how all of his highlights come assisted by Kawhi or with Kawhi on the floor. I am thinking his most natural position really is SG.

Kawhi and Simmons two man game can be dangerous.

[ceperez]

My latest contribution to the Vicaroge:

http://giant.gfycat.com/RawNarrowEstuarinecrocodile.gif

[LaMarcus Bryant]

Looks like there's a new long dick nigga in town

[Keepin' it real]

https://memecrunch.com/meme/JAE3/charming/image.png?w=500&c=1

[Chinook]

Wouldn't mind seeing Simmons/Anderson start for Green until Danny can figure out how to shoot again. Pop needs to be pushing whatever buttons he needs to to get Danny on track. The SL won't be clicking offensively until Green and his spacing click, so it's not like Pop can ignore Danny to try to get LMA and Kawhi comfortable.

[Nathan89]

I'd mind if Anderson started tbh. Dude isn't good and won't be good. The need to develop Simmons.

[Kawhitstorm]

The more I see his play, the more he reminds me of a poorman's Evan Turner

[dabom]

Black man's very poor manu. Impressive no less. Expect good and bad games from him in the future trying to work some rotations.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Genuinely thought Pop would put him in the doghouse after that first turnover right after he checked in, I bet he was shitting his pants looking at the bench after Lakers scored on the fast break :lol

Had a good game from then on though, he was aggressive offensively and Pop likes this.

[DeRozan m8]

Black man's very poor manu. Impressive no less. Expect good and bad games from him in the future trying to work some rotations.

He's played like 10 games LOL

Dude has a decent ceiling

[dabom]

He's played like 10 games LOL

Dude has a decent ceiling

I said very poor my man. :lol

[Leebrix]

Atleast he fuckin drives to the rim, just needs to take some pointers from Manu and learn to go AROUND the defender sometimes to get there instead of through them and getting called for the offensive foul.

[LaMarcus Bryant]

Atleast he fuckin drives to the rim, just needs to take some pointers from Manu and learn to go AROUND the defender sometimes to get there instead of through them and getting called for the offensive foul.

You just described a unique trait that makes Manu unique

[DeRozan m8]

His aggressiveness is great.

He's basically the opposite of Anderson.

[LaMarcus Bryant]

If you watch Simmons, he's always calling for the ball

All the stupid bull shit on this forum-well nigga Simmons got ALPHA in him.
He is always calling for that rock.

He's awesome but his weaknesses are glaring
His defense blows ass, he can't work around screens for shit
And he's not a good 3 point shooter

Usually up and comer spurs shoot auspicious in summer league then get better.

He shot great and went to shit.

I love Simmons but he's very much still a project

[SAGirl]

If you watch Simmons, he's always calling for the ball

All the stupid bull shit on this forum-well nigga Simmons got ALPHA in him.
He is always calling for that rock.

He's awesome but his weaknesses are glaring
His defense blows ass, he can't work around screens for shit
And he's not a good 3 point shooter

Usually up and comer spurs shoot auspicious in summer league then get better.

He shot great and went to shit.

I love Simmons but he's very much still a project

I completely agree with your assessment. To correct on the SL shooting. He didn't "shoot" particularly well, he had a lot of highlight dunks off TO, he split PnR and got to the rim against bad SL defense and he caught some nice passes from Anderson. His skill is getting to the rack, drawing fouls and finishing through contact.

I think precisely because of his deficiencies, his role is to be aggressive and attack the rim. If he's not going to do that, he won't play because there are other guys that can do everything else (defend,rebound,pass,shoot) better.

You know how players are assigned roles? Simmons role is to slash. He is an offensive player. If he is not going to be aggressive getting to the rack and drawing fouls, he won't play quite simply. What made Pop love him is that aside from his athleticism he is a very nice passer.

Those two are the NBA level skills he brings to the team. Everything else is currently in development.

[jermaine]

Black man's very poor manu. Impressive no less. Expect good and bad games from him in the future trying to work some rotations.
I told my wife this exact thing... He won't get much time right now, but when Many retires, he'll be thrown right in. He'll know everything he needs to know an his shot will be better.

[SupremeGuy]

Until Green finds himself, this guy can drive to the basket and teams aren't expecting it from the 2 anymore. Let him ball. Forreal though, dude needs to stop with all that excitement.

[DenialTwist]

Laker fans are even talking about Simmons hehe thank goodness the Spurs signed him in the offseason. Nice pickup. He is not afraid to attack the basket that's for sure. His hustle and aggressiveness is great. He can still improve on his defense but I like that he isn't afraid to score.

[DenialTwist]

Until Green finds himself, this guy can drive to the basket and teams aren't expecting it from the 2 anymore. Let him ball. Forreal though, dude needs to stop with all that excitement.

Yeah they even mentioned that Pop told Simmons "calm down young fella" when he got that offensive foul.

[ceperez]

Yeah they even mentioned that Pop told Simmons "calm down young fella" when he got that offensive foul.

Pop seems to treat Anderson differently. Anderson is on a very short lease. Simmons has leeway and needs constant encouragement. Simmons also gets upset on himself on the court when he makes mistakes.

These two players are going to be very good. There needs though are complete opposite. Anderson needs to be aggressive, Simmons needs to calm down. Both however need to practice their 3s.

[boutons_deux]

"Simmons needs to calm down."

yep, he got carried away, needs more control, smarts, intensity is great, emotions sorta dicey.

[Ice009]

I completely agree with your assessment. To correct on the SL shooting. He didn't "shoot" particularly well, he had a lot of highlight dunks off TO, he split PnR and got to the rim against bad SL defense and he caught some nice passes from Anderson. His skill is getting to the rack, drawing fouls and finishing through contact.

I think precisely because of his deficiencies, his role is to be aggressive and attack the rim. If he's not going to do that, he won't play because there are other guys that can do everything else (defend,rebound,pass,shoot) better.

You know how players are assigned roles? Simmons role is to slash. He is an offensive player. If he is not going to be aggressive getting to the rack and drawing fouls, he won't play quite simply. What made Pop love him is that aside from his athleticism he is a very nice passer.

Those two are the NBA level skills he brings to the team. Everything else is currently in development.

Pretty much what I said in a post earlier today. Everything else he has to work on. Getting to the rim and passing seem to be his two strengths right now. I mentioned defense as his biggest priority to work on, then shooting as his next.


Until Green finds himself, this guy can drive to the basket and teams aren't expecting it from the 2 anymore. Let him ball. Forreal though, dude needs to stop with all that excitement.

I agree that he needs to tone it down a bit as I don't like over celebrating, but this is a guy that was thinking about quitting basketball a few years ago until he went to a open tryout for the Austin Toros - possibly viewing it as a last chance, and now he is in the NBA getting minutes on one of the best teams in the NBA. They can't all act like robots out there. I think he should be allowed to show some excitement.


"Simmons needs to calm down."

yep, he got carried away, needs more control, smarts, intensity is great, emotions sorta dicey.




Pretty good take. He does need to keep these things you mentioned in check if he wants to reach his max potential.

[Obstructed_View]

I'd mind if Anderson started tbh. Dude isn't good and won't be good. The need to develop Simmons.

Isn't it time to put this idiotic take to rest? At what point do you guys transition from just repeating this shit to actually watching the games?

[midnightpulp]

Too bad he's 26, which is near the end of an athletic prime. Guy has beastly athleticism. Love to see a 22-23 year old Simmons developed in the Spurs program. That said, his development needs to be fast tracked. The Spurs desperately need another athlete and penetrate who can attack and draw fouls.

No reason he can't become a great defender, either. He's got quickness and decent length.

[ceperez]

Too bad he's 26, which is near the end of an athletic prime. Guy has beastly athleticism. Love to see a 22-23 year old Simmons developed in the Spurs program. That said, his development needs to be fast tracked. The Spurs desperately need another athlete and penetrate who can attack and draw fouls.

No reason he can't become a great defender, either. He's got quickness and decent length.

He's 26 but does not have a lot of mileage, so unlike guys like McGrady who started the NBA after high school, he's got a lot more years left.

[LaMarcus Bryant]

Isn't it time to put this idiotic take to rest? At what point do you guys transition from just repeating this shit to actually watching the games?

This

[LaMarcus Bryant]

Too bad he's 26, which is near the end of an athletic prime. Guy has beastly athleticism. Love to see a 22-23 year old Simmons developed in the Spurs program. That said, his development needs to be fast tracked. The Spurs desperately need another athlete and penetrate who can attack and draw fouls.

No reason he can't become a great defender, either. He's got quickness and decent length.

Exactly
He needs to work on his lateral quickness and watch months worth of film

If only this were his 2nd year in the system smh, but that always happens with spurs up and comers

[SAGirl]

Pop seems to treat Anderson differently. Anderson is on a very short lease. Simmons has leeway and needs constant encouragement. Simmons also gets upset on himself on the court when he makes mistakes.

These two players are going to be very good. There needs though are complete opposite. Anderson needs to be aggressive, Simmons needs to calm down. Both however need to practice their 3s.

I have noticed these two things too.
Anderson will coast offensively if you let him. . . which is funny bc he was heralded as being ball dominant coming into the league. I am pleased that he's not. He actually likes to pass, a whole lot, maybe too much, maybe all the time.. OK, maybe he should take a shot every once in a while... :lmao you get me?

I think Pop doesn't want him to force a single shot of his own. He's coming in only taking a wide open shot for himself and looking for shots for others. That is really a development phase. Pop is having him work on his decision making and focusing on making the right passes for that he's got to be on a short leash. Because if Pop gives him the ball, he's got to earn Pop's trust that he's not going to be jacking up shots. So he's doing at this point what Pop wants.

He does strike me as tough minded. He was the captain of an NCAA team that made it to the Sweet 16 after all, and he really was the captain of that SL team over the summer. They relied on him for much of their offense, but more so for leadership. He's got to be one tough competitor underneath all that slowmo unassuming shtick.

Simmons, yea he's more vulnerable to frustration. In the preseason he was under threat of being cut and he could barely cope with the pressure. I think he made more mistakes due to the mental aspects than lack of skill, bc he has improved considerably in a short time. It shows that to a degree he was very nervous. Pop doesn't want to compound that with his intense coaching while the guy is playing. He's played better when allowed to play through mistakes.

[Yuixafun]

In a lot of ways, being a coach and being an elementary teacher are similar.

You realize you have students at varying degrees development, and raw potential, and backgrounds... you try to give everyone what they need to blossom and not feel neglected, from the class wiz, to the daydreamer, to the kid who has to dress his little sister for school and make breakfast because mom or dad still passed out from last night...
while at the same time, instilling in each one of them a sense of care for each other, to be happy for one another's successes, to be a family.

[moisaenz]

Has Simmons been working on his shot with Chip?

[Nathan89]

Isn't it time to put this idiotic take to rest? At what point do you guys transition from just repeating this shit to actually watching the games?

He's definitely not good right now. He can be good if he develops a shot though. So that was an overstatement.

[ceperez]

Lots of praise from teammates: http://blog.mysanantonio.com/spursnation/2015/12/14/simmons-athleticism-has-opened-eyes/

“He’s got huge potential in the fact that he’s young, athletic, gets out on the break,” Mills said after shootaround Monday morning. “He can get to the rim with ease it seems like with his big steps, which leads to him shooting a lot of free throws."


“He pressures the ball,” Ginobili said. “He goes hard to the boards. He runs the fast break and is able to finish in traffic. He is able to finish in traffic above the rim.”

[SnakeBoy]

I have noticed these two things too.
Anderson will coast offensively if you let him. . . which is funny bc he was heralded as being ball dominant coming into the league. I am pleased that he's not. He actually likes to pass, a whole lot, maybe too much, maybe all the time.. OK, maybe he should take a shot every once in a while... :lmao you get me?

I think Pop doesn't want him to force a single shot of his own. He's coming in only taking a wide open shot for himself and looking for shots for others. That is really a development phase. Pop is having him work on his decision making and focusing on making the right passes for that he's got to be on a short leash. Because if Pop gives him the ball, he's got to earn Pop's trust that he's not going to be jacking up shots. So he's doing at this point what Pop wants.

He does strike me as tough minded. He was the captain of an NCAA team that made it to the Sweet 16 after all, and he really was the captain of that SL team over the summer. They relied on him for much of their offense, but more so for leadership. He's got to be one tough competitor underneath all that slowmo unassuming shtick.

Simmons, yea he's more vulnerable to frustration. In the preseason he was under threat of being cut and he could barely cope with the pressure. I think he made more mistakes due to the mental aspects than lack of skill, bc he has improved considerably in a short time. It shows that to a degree he was very nervous. Pop doesn't want to compound that with his intense coaching while the guy is playing. He's played better when allowed to play through mistakes.

I don't think Anderson is prone coasting offensively. When he has gotten the ball late in the clock and been forced to make something happen it has usually ended with good results. The rest of the time he gets pulled pretty quick he tries to be aggressive offensively. I think it was 3-4 games ago he put up a contested 3, made it, and got pulled. He's been an offensive focal point in college, D league, and SL. I think Pop isn't worried about his offensive game and has him on a very short leash until he can learn to consistently be aggressive and focused on the defensive end. That's where he is prone to coasting.

It is interesting how Pop is coaching KA and Simmons so differently. KA played under Bob Hurley so there's no doubt he can handle being coached hard so he is getting the Danny Green treatment. Meanwhile Simmons is getting the kind teacher Pop. Last game Simmons made a mistake and Pop just had is hand on his shoulder while he calmly explained his mistake to him. Maybe he thinks coaching Simmons hard will break his confidence or maybe it's just that this is Simmons last shot at having an NBA career. After last game Pop said he was trying to teach Simmons to just be solid without trying to show everyone how good he was. I thought that was an interesting comment from Pop.

[SAGirl]

I don't think Anderson is prone coasting offensively. When he has gotten the ball late in the clock and been forced to make something happen it has usually ended with good results. The rest of the time he gets pulled pretty quick he tries to be aggressive offensively. I think it was 3-4 games ago he put up a contested 3, made it, and got pulled. He's been an offensive focal point in college, D league, and SL. I think Pop isn't worried about his offensive game and has him on a very short leash until he can learn to consistently be aggressive and focused on the defensive end. That's where he is prone to coasting.

It is interesting how Pop is coaching KA and Simmons so differently. KA played under Bob Hurley so there's no doubt he can handle being coached hard so he is getting the Danny Green treatment. Meanwhile Simmons is getting the kind teacher Pop. Last game Simmons made a mistake and Pop just had is hand on his shoulder while he calmly explained his mistake to him. Maybe he thinks coaching Simmons hard will break his confidence or maybe it's just that this is Simmons last shot at having an NBA career. After last game Pop said he was trying to teach Simmons to just be solid without trying to show everyone how good he was. I thought that was an interesting comment from Pop.
Good observation!!!
Thanks for sharing!
Yes Pop is teaching each guy individually according to what they need, I agree with you there. Anderson is also younger, Simmons is a developed young man, by that I mean he's already grown into his body and he is strong and obviously atheltic. Being 26, if you are going to use that explosiveness to win games you better start now. His game does reply on his explosive first step, and he's close to getting to his athletic peak if not already on it. Anderson is a younger kid with a light frame and no one knows what he can really do.
Pop said early this season he was going to play different positions, so I think Pop is on the mindset that they can afford to see where he does best, and they don't yet know. Maybe they project internally what he could be in the future, but he's obviously not there yet. He's developing and a player like that, yea you have to be more strict, particularly if he's not putting points on the board, he has to hustle.

Very interesting for me to see Pop coach them for sure.

[8FOR!3]

I'd say Simmons is a victim of trying to do too much because he's afraid if he doesn't show out he'll be sent out. Pop's handling it the right way, I think the more comfortable Simmons is the better he'll play.

[SAGirl]

I'd say Simmons is a victim of trying to do too much because he's afraid if he doesn't show out he'll be sent out. Pop's handling it the right way, I think the more comfortable Simmons is the better he'll play.
You got it.
I think that is exactly what Pop meant when he said wanted J.Simms to be "solid." He doesn't have to come in trying to do too much or trying to impress, but just play well within the system and off others.

I think he surpassed Anderson in the rotation because he's more aggressive and plays with more confidence. Kyle is still developing clearly and getting to mature into his game.
You can see sometimes what he can do, particularly with posting up and shooting over others with that length, and he's obviously a good passer, but he's still insecure and hesitant to shoot or be aggressive. That is where Simmons edged him out...

Now that he has edged him out, he has to be "solid"... that means avoid the TO, avoid the mistakes, be good on defense, etc. All the little things that win you games.

By the way, it was garbage time but Kyle had a good showing tonight. Precisely didn't try to do too much, and most of what he did was to good use. He was also about the only guy still playing defense and getting back in transition during garbage time.

[DJR210]

It's official.. Simmons is now better than Anderson.. All skills aside, biggest difference? Simmons playing with balls now.

[Mikeanaro]

Seamonk is great, the way he plays with grit and and yes he is a little reckless but he wants to be part of this team so badly, the total opposite of DG and game after game we are seeing improvements, Spurs are lucky with their new players, even Bon Bon is resembling Karl Malone.

[ceperez]

You got it.
I think that is exactly what Pop meant when he said wanted J.Simms to be "solid." He doesn't have to come in trying to do too much or trying to impress, but just play well within the system and off others.

I think he surpassed Anderson in the rotation because he's more aggressive and plays with more confidence. Kyle is still developing clearly and getting to mature into his game.
You can see sometimes what he can do, particularly with posting up and shooting over others with that length, and he's obviously a good passer, but he's still insecure and hesitant to shoot or be aggressive. That is where Simmons edged him out...

Now that he has edged him out, he has to be "solid"... that means avoid the TO, avoid the mistakes, be good on defense, etc. All the little things that win you games.

By the way, it was garbage time but Kyle had a good showing tonight. Precisely didn't try to do too much, and most of what he did was to good use. He was also about the only guy still playing defense and getting back in transition during garbage time.

Kyle plays a solid game already. The stats do show that across the board improvement of the team when Kyle is on the court. Kyle's problem is that he is redundant with Boris Diaw. He's a rookie Boris Diaw without the athleticism.

Simmons is however the only off-the-charts athletic player on the team. It gets worse when you compare to the non-starters. Who in the non-starters are athletic?? Only one... Ray McCallum and he barely even plays.

[SAGirl]

Kyle plays a solid game already. The stats do show that across the board improvement of the team when Kyle is on the court. Kyle's problem is that he is redundant with Boris Diaw. He's a rookie Boris Diaw without the athleticism.

Simmons is however the only off-the-charts athletic player on the team. It gets worse when you compare to the non-starters. Who in the non-starters are athletic?? Only one... Ray McCallum and he barely even plays.

Well this is the Vicaroge of Simmons, ...
but since we are talking about Kyle...

in terms of guys in the team who score unassisted field goals, the leader is Tony: with 66% of his shots being unassisted.
Then you have Boban with 52%
The next two guys up are Boris and Kyle at 46% of their field goals unassisted each. Everyone else gets a lot of shots out of ball movement and being set up. See here: http://stats.nba.com/team/#!/1610612759/players/scoring/?sort=PCT_UAST_FGM&dir=1

Simmons is at only 16% of his field goals made being unassisted. I think it is a myth then that he gets his own shots.
He actually scores best in transition and off actions initiated by others. His dribble penetration is the best for setting others up out of his own penetration but him him trying to take all these contested shots at the basket, against 1-3 guys and dunk on shot blockers is I think going to be coached down a little bit by Pop. He has lately been trying to show off SL style and it has only resulted in him reducing his shooting percentage. He will not be rewarded with foul shots either when he's going against a couple of guys forcing up the action himself. Last game he forced too much and missed open teammates.

Kyle, reminds me so much of Boris. Not the exact same game as Boris but so similar in so many ways.
For one, they both have very low usage, and yet as the unassisted field goals made % I cited above show, they can pretty much get their own shots when they want, they just choose not to, and prefer to set others up.

Kyle with a 13% usage, and Boris with a 15%.

Simmons with a 22% usage.

I am still more intrigued by Kyle overall. I feel like in the end due to his youth he has more potential to add things to his game and I feel like to a degree he has held himself back by not wanting to force up shots or press the issue offensively. It has made him look passive, but he can get his own shots when needed, as the number of difficult shots he has hit to avoid shot clock violations attest.

[SnakeBoy]

I said last year that Kyle is a future star for the Spurs and I haven't seen anything to make me change my mind. The way he is being developed/coached makes me think the Spurs believe that too. It's just not going to be this year. Everyone is down on him for being "passive" offensively but I have yet to see Pop pull him for not being aggressive on that end, it's been just the opposite. I seriously doubt Pop is begging Kyle to take more shots and he's refusing to.

Simmons on the other hand is getting the now or never treatment. I have my doubts about his bb iq but the last couple of games he has looked to be playing smarter, although he still has a long way to go. It will be pretty awesome if the Spurs can turn him into a smart player, his athleticism cannot be denied.

[bic50]

All I know is simmons needs better shoes.

[SnakeBoy]

All I know is simmons needs better shoes.

:lol

He does look like my dog trying to run on a tile floor sometimes.

[bic50]

:lol

He does look like my dog trying to run on a tile floor sometimes.

It's weird because I don't remember him slipping like that in the d-league or summer league. :lol

[ceperez]

Well this is the Vicaroge of Simmons, ...
but since we are talking about Kyle...

in terms of guys in the team who score unassisted field goals, the leader is Tony: with 66% of his shots being unassisted.
Then you have Boban with 52%
The next two guys up are Boris and Kyle at 46% of their field goals unassisted each. Everyone else gets a lot of shots out of ball movement and being set up. See here: http://stats.nba.com/team/#!/1610612759/players/scoring/?sort=PCT_UAST_FGM&dir=1

Simmons is at only 16% of his field goals made being unassisted. I think it is a myth then that he gets his own shots.
He actually scores best in transition and off actions initiated by others. His dribble penetration is the best for setting others up out of his own penetration but him him trying to take all these contested shots at the basket, against 1-3 guys and dunk on shot blockers is I think going to be coached down a little bit by Pop. He has lately been trying to show off SL style and it has only resulted in him reducing his shooting percentage. He will not be rewarded with foul shots either when he's going against a couple of guys forcing up the action himself. Last game he forced too much and missed open teammates.

Kyle, reminds me so much of Boris. Not the exact same game as Boris but so similar in so many ways.
For one, they both have very low usage, and yet as the unassisted field goals made % I cited above show, they can pretty much get their own shots when they want, they just choose not to, and prefer to set others up.

Kyle with a 13% usage, and Boris with a 15%.

Simmons with a 22% usage.

I am still more intrigued by Kyle overall. I feel like in the end due to his youth he has more potential to add things to his game and I feel like to a degree he has held himself back by not wanting to force up shots or press the issue offensively. It has made him look passive, but he can get his own shots when needed, as the number of difficult shots he has hit to avoid shot clock violations attest.

Great stat find. Well numbers don't lie, Tony and Boris are like the two best players on the Spurs if you absolutely need to force the issue.

Aldridge and Leonard aren't as efficient.

I also agree that Simmons despite having out of this world athleticism, doesn't have enough to just beat his man in the NBA. He needs to be assisted.

[ceperez]

Yet another highlight from Jonathon Simmons ( does this guy ever run out? )

https://giant.gfycat.com/DiscreteHandsomeBedbug.gif

The dude is out of bounds and shoots it at a ridiculous angle!


Because... dunking ability will make him a useful rotation player? I'm 50/50 on whether he'll pan out or not, and dunking has little to do with my assessment.


It's not known whether Simmons can defend at an NBA level so that's irrelevant. Offense seems to translate much easier and Simmons is in NO way similar to Eddie Jones in any facet of the game. Please stop trying to push this narrative. It's a slap in the face to Eddie Jones, whom was a truly great player.


We won't know if he is any good until the end of the year.


I love Simmons but he's very much still a project


Calm down beaner. Let's not eat ourselves into a coma in celebration just yet.

He's a nice looking prospect who hasn't played a single minute in a real NBA game...nothing more or less.

[SnakeBoy]

lol Timmy when that shot goes up

[SnakeBoy]

That play is also good example of why the Spurs are making Kyle focus on the defensive end.

[k_nguyen93]

I just want to see him be a little consistent with his shot. He's been getting a lot up with all the garbage time but not necessarily converting just yet.

[benefactor]

Yet another highlight from Jonathon Simmons ( does this guy ever run out? )


The dude is out of bounds and shoots it at a ridiculous angle!
:lol squeezing the sour cream out of your burrito over a meaningless shot in a meaningless game.

Don't you ever fucking quote me again bean dip. Your shit takes are just as much of a plague on this site as all the crew nonsense. Head to my front yard, saddle up on that zero turn and edge up when you are done if you want to make a useful contribution.

[pgardn]

Simmons is a very different type of player than Anderson. Because they are listed at the same position I guess it means something. I can see them used in very different ways, and with a different group of players.

[gospursgojas]

I cringe every time Anderson gets the ball...looks clumsy and lost. And don't give me its the way he plays "slomo" shit.

[ceperez]

I cringe every time Anderson gets the ball...looks clumsy and lost. And don't give me its the way he plays "slomo" shit.

Dude... please don't desecrate the vicarage with your complaints about some other player. Take your bad impressions elsewhere.

[ceperez]

New article by Jeff McDonald: http://www.expressnews.com/sports/spurs/article/Ex-D-Leaguer-Simmons-could-be-Spurs-latest-find-6700155.php?t=9094fa2a49927fc3fb&cmpid=twitter-premium

[dweaver99027]

I'm happy with both Simmons and Anderson so far. I do not expect them to be playable during high-stakes playoff battles this year, but them giving 10-15 quality mins in the reg season to help rest our vets without costing us games is all good. I expect them to be viable rotation players in the playoffs in future years, if they stick with us.

[ceperez]

Good game by Simmons against the Clippers

2-2 shooting
1-1 3 point
1 steal
5 points
+/- +17 (Highest in the team)

http://www.nba.com/games/20151218/LACSAS/gameinfo.html?ls=iref:nba:scoreboard

[steeledl]

I said it in the game thread but I'm so thrilled for this guy..... A couple of years ago he had no clue he would be playing important minutes in big games vs Blake griffin and cp3 ... Slapping hands with Duncan, kawhi, Parker , and aldridge......


seriously an amazing story . I love this dude and hope his upward trajectory keeps going.

[SpurPadre]

Good game by Simmons against the Clippers

2-2 shooting
1-1 3 point
1 steal
5 points
+/- +17 (Highest in the team)

http://www.nba.com/games/20151218/LACSAS/gameinfo.html?ls=iref:nba:scoreboard

He gave us a spark on both ends and was screwed by the refs a couple times. Really impressed with him tonight against a real team.

[TheGreatYacht]

There's nothing else he can prove to stay in the rotation. Outplayed Stephenson and whoever he was guarding tonight

[Darkwaters]

Good game by Simmons against the Clippers

2-2 shooting
1-1 3 point
1 steal
5 points
+/- +17 (Highest in the team)

http://www.nba.com/games/20151218/LACSAS/gameinfo.html?ls=iref:nba:scoreboard

That 3 pointer was pretty. He'd just checked in and nailed it from the corner.

[steeledl]

Said in game thread as well.... This nigga needs to go up to each referee before the game and introduce himself and shake their hand because they call bullshit could on him like he is a scrub.

[steeledl]

There's nothing else he can prove to stay in the rotation. Outplayed Stephenson and whoever he was guarding tonight

good point . Simmons > stephenson

[Ice009]

I love the energy that he tries to bring every game. I love that he is now also taking some of those open 3 point shots and his form it looking better to me. He really brought great energy tonight in his short stint. Loved his play. Refs screwed him over.

[HarlemHeat37]

His role suits him well right now, an energy player that gives 10 MPG or so, tbh..he shouldn't play more than that, keeping his minutes low will maximize his impact IMO..

[steeledl]

This nigga reminds me of myself in middle school tbh.

[HarlemHeat37]

This nigga reminds me of myself in middle school tbh.

:lol

[steeledl]

:lol


I was the man bruh.

[RD2191]

This nigga reminds me of myself in middle school tbh.
:lmao

[RD2191]

I was the man bruh.
Yeah, the man who sucked the most dick.

[steeledl]

Yeah, the man who sucked the most dick.

:lmao Mad cause you keep getting exposed

[SAGirl]

His role suits him well right now, an energy player that gives 10 MPG or so, tbh..he shouldn't play more than that, keeping his minutes low will maximize his impact IMO..


That 3 pointer was pretty. He'd just checked in and nailed it from the corner.


Good game by Simmons against the Clippers

2-2 shooting
1-1 3 point
1 steal
5 points
+/- +17 (Highest in the team)

http://www.nba.com/games/20151218/LACSAS/gameinfo.html?ls=iref:nba:scoreboard

Good game by Simmons.
Pop trusted him with minutes against a playoff team and he came through. He played his role really well.

I like that he's getting more comfortable with his 3 pt shot. I hope his work with Chip continues to pay off.

[RD2191]

:lmao Mad cause you keep getting exposed
Exposed? Yeah, that's it. Tell us more about how jonathan simmons reminds you of yourself. :lmao

[steeledl]

Exposed? Yeah, that's it. Tell us more about how jonathan simmons reminds you of yourself. :lmao


Sure right after you tell me how Parker sucks :lmao

[bic50]

Yeah, the man who sucked the most dick.

:lmao

[RD2191]

Sure right after you tell me how Parker sucks :lmao
So you're a self admitted player fan? Good to see you admitting to being a faggot. So what up Jsims? :lmao

[steeledl]

So you're a self admitted player fan? Good to see you admitting to being a faggot. So what up Jsims? :lmao

Lol

I'm a player fan because I appreciate our great players. Faggot

[lefty20]

I'm excited to see Simmons get more responsibilities on nights we sit Manu. He certainly looks like he is up for the challenge.

[DJR210]

Yeah, the man who sucked the most dick.

:lol

[DenialTwist]

There's nothing else he can prove to stay in the rotation. Outplayed Stephenson and whoever he was guarding tonight

He was confident enough to take the open three and he made it! Love that he is not afraid to attack the basket but I was skeptical about his outside shooting ability. Great minutes from Simmons tonight.

[siraulo23]

Is simmons the spurs best defender in terms of navigating around screens? Id say yes

[steeledl]

Is simmons the spurs best defender in terms of navigating around screens? Id say yes

This is actually one of the things he needs to work on the most.

[steeledl]

Simmons needs more minutes tbh. imho. tbqh......iirc.

[ceperez]

You really need quick players to defend against the Clippers with all their screens.

I was surprised that Patty Mills was very effective against J.J.Redick. Simmons also did an excellent job sticking to his man. Crawford scored 0, Stephens scored 0.

Simmons is that relief defender that'll keep the others fresh. Leonard was exhausted towards the end of the game and it showed in his missed shots.

[ceperez]

Simmons needs more minutes tbh. imho. tbqh......iirc.

I agree about this. Lot's of naysayers right now all completely clueless why Simmons is needed for teams like Clippers, OKC and GSW.

[cutewizard]

this Simmons can play ei

[cutewizard]

J Simms is the Spurs player closest to MJ, tbh hehehehe

[benefactor]

Yeah, the man who sucked the most dick.
:lol

[Ice009]

I kind of agree and disagree with Harlem regarding Simmons' minutes. I think he should get a little more court time to see if he can continue to improve. I assume Harlem is thinking that there will be diminishing returns if he plays longer, but I would like to see if the extra court time can help him improve and become a better player. Mostly I want to see if he can become a consistent penetrator and either draw fouls and/or finish. I really think this team needs that kind of player. We just don't draw enough fouls IMO. I also want to see if he can continue to add a 3 point shot to his game.

At worst though, if he doesn't get extra court time, I think Harlem is right in saying that he'd be great in his current energy guy role. His enthusiasm and athleticism really helps the team out when they're going through a bit of a dry spell or playing with a lack of energy.

Defense is the other aspect of his game I am intrigued by. I also think he has potential at that end of the court. If he could use that athleticism of his and learn to play good, sound defense at the NBA level, then I think that would even outweigh what he brings on the offensive end.

[ceperez]

Defense is the other aspect of his game I am intrigued by. I also think he has potential at that end of the court. If he could use that athleticism of his and learn to play good, sound defense at the NBA level, then I think that would even outweigh what he brings on the offensive end.

The Clippers single and double screens take a lot of energy and speed to get around. JJ Redick and Paul are also running all over the place. If you have Leonard cover any of those two, he gets taxed come the 4th quarter. So if Simmons can cover any of those two for some length of time, then Spurs come out a head even if Simmons never makes a shot.

The +17 was a good tell. Further he hit 100% of his shots. He covered Crawford who was 0-3. I don't recall who covered Stephenson, but he also had zero points. Bench play is key and in this game, without the bench, Spurs could not have created separation.

[picnroll]

I also think the Spurs need to play Simmons and develop him, particularly work on his defense. He has all the tools but somehow he manages to get hung up on every screen. The guy should watch Avery Bradley tapes 8 hrs a day. He also needs to work on change of pace and a mid range game, not commit to getting to the basket every time he penetrates.

[ceperez]

I also think the Spurs need to play Simmons and develop him, particularly work on his defense. He has all the tools but somehow he manages to get hung up on every screen. The guy should watch Avery Bradley tapes 8 hrs a day. He also needs to work on change of pace and a mid range game, not commit to getting to the basket every time he penetrates.

Add Tony Allen to his video list.

He could be become better that either Bradley or Allen, he's quicker, more athletic, longer and can shoot better than either player.

[J_Paco]

Add Tony Allen to his video list.

He could be become better that either Bradley or Allen, he's quicker, more athletic, longer and can shoot better than either player.

Don't think that Simmons is more athletic than a pre - torn ACL Tony Allen, but he's close enough that he can hang with nearly any NBA shooting guard. He does bring an athletic component that this team has severely lacked over the last 5 years or so. Working on his jump shot, handle and either a floater or pull up jumper will be key for him....

[Drom John]

Simmons rookie rankings:
PER: 6th, 5th Okafor, 7th McConnell.
PER VA: 10th, 9th Cauley-Stein, 11th Booker
WS: tied for 9th with McConnell, 8th Holmes, 11th Booker
WS/48: 4th, 3rd Marjanovich, 5th Jokic
Ortg: tied for 11th with Towns, 10th Wood, 13th Kaminsky
Drtg: tied for 6th with Powell, 5th Kaun, 8th Porzingis and Portis -- 2nd Marjanovic
VORP: tied for 9th with Marjanovic, McConnell and Winslow

[bic50]

It's nice to see simmons getting playing time against better competition. Even better is that he's actually producing.

[spurraider21]

His role suits him well right now, an energy player that gives 10 MPG or so, tbh..he shouldn't play more than that, keeping his minutes low will maximize his impact IMO..
this. he might be able to grow into a bigger role one day, but he's way too raw to trust this season

[BackHome]

Why do dumb ass people try to comparer two players on the same team who play different positions? And what is up with the "My Fucking Lover Boy is Better then your Fucking Lover Boy". Need to stop that shit they are a team and they are going to win or loose as a team.

[bic50]

Why do dumb ass people try to comparer two players on the same team who play different positions? And what is up with the "My Fucking Lover Boy is Better then your Fucking Lover Boy". Need to stop that shit they are a team and they are going to win or loose as a team.

:bobo

[SAGirl]

I kind of agree and disagree with Harlem regarding Simmons' minutes. I think he should get a little more court time to see if he can continue to improve. I assume Harlem is thinking that there will be diminishing returns if he plays longer, but I would like to see if the extra court time can help him improve and become a better player. Mostly I want to see if he can become a consistent penetrator and either draw fouls and/or finish. I really think this team needs that kind of player. We just don't draw enough fouls IMO. I also want to see if he can continue to add a 3 point shot to his game.

At worst though, if he doesn't get extra court time, I think Harlem is right in saying that he'd be great in his current energy guy role. His enthusiasm and athleticism really helps the team out when they're going through a bit of a dry spell or playing with a lack of energy.

Defense is the other aspect of his game I am intrigued by. I also think he has potential at that end of the court. If he could use that athleticism of his and learn to play good, sound defense at the NBA level, then I think that would even outweigh what he brings on the offensive end.

I just think before Pop goes crazy about his role he wants him to be solid. That means limit his mistakes. He had a lot of them in the beginning, but he has been limiting TO, bad passes, falling/slipping on the floor. Defensively he needs to limit his foul rate. He plays with too much energy at times, jumping on guys or bumping them.

However, Pop keeps giving him chances and he's been increasingly better. When he's solid for a few games, Pop will continue to put more on his plate. However, he will possibly be limited in role this season anyways because there are other guys also being developed who Pop is not going to completely abandon even if they won't play a role in the postseason, bc they are part of the team's future.

He looks as the frontrunner for the 4th wing but it is possible to still see Anderson some games bc he is younger, with a different kind of game, but equally needs time to also develop his game.

[steeledl]

Bump... Another solid outing. Still making rookie mistakes..... but that's fine at this point. Dude is a steal.

[Agloco]

Yep, I like what I'm seeing from him. He should be solid by the time the playoffs roll around. His defense is steadily improving, though it's not where it needs to be quite yet.

[steeledl]

.

[KL2]

Instant offense off the bench, he's earning more minutes with his play.

[ceperez]

Instant offense off the bench, he's earning more minutes with his play.

3-4 from the field. 1-1 3pt. Playing solid. There was a stretch where he was guarding Paul George.

[rastaspur]

He is exceeding all expectations at this point and getting more and more comfortable with each minute. Hes still a turnover machine but hes improving and avoiding his pitfalls and limitations. Reminds me of a young stephen jackson making his breakthrough. Hes a competitor and fearless. He has a nice skillset which he can build upon. Plus, he has an edge about him but not the stephen jackson i must show the world and validate his street cred attitude.

Dude strikes me as a hard worker. Kid could grind away at his game like kawhi and turn into a gem. It is within the realm of possibility.

I dont need gifts for christmas if that scenario materializes. I am eager and excited to see his progression throughout the season.

If he could be in a position to absorb 10 quality minutes a night come playoff time, the versatility of the bench is goung to be an absolute buzzsaw.

[rastaspur]

Don't think that Simmons is more athletic than a pre - torn ACL Tony Allen, but he's close enough that he can hang with nearly any NBA shooting guard. He does bring an athletic component that this team has severely lacked over the last 5 years or so. Working on his jump shot, handle and either a floater or pull up jumper will be key for him....

Tony allen was a superb athlete pre-acl tear. Closest current comparison to pre-injury allen is jimmy butler.

[ceperez]

Tony allen was a superb athlete pre-acl tear. Closest current comparison to pre-injury allen is jimmy butler.

But could he shoot??

[SAGirl]

Why do dumb ass people try to comparer two players on the same team who play different positions? And what is up with the "My Fucking Lover Boy is Better then your Fucking Lover Boy". Need to stop that shit they are a team and they are going to win or loose as a team.
Too much of that going around, everywhere.
:bobo

[SAGirl]

If he could be in a position to absorb 10 quality minutes a night come playoff time, the versatility of the bench is goung to be an absolute buzzsaw.
I think we will need him for those 10 minutes. Pop will probably have him in a short leash, but we will need him for a few minutes because you can't rely on Danny as much as you would want to.

Hopefully Danny comes back from the twilight zone, but Simmons could be good for 8-10 minutes.

[Nathan89]

He played great tonight on offense. I hoping he keeps taking and hitting his open threes. He wasn't really challenge on defense so there wasn't much to take away from his great offensive contribution.

[rastaspur]

But could he shoot??

Atrocious shooting back in the day. Still sucks but has improved.

[Kawhitstorm]

Hopefully, he can develop like Will Barton who was a mediocre 3 pt shooter & is now shooting 40%. He is almost 25.

[NickiRasgo]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7CCUC2ExeA

[ceperez]

Atrocious shooting back in the day. Still sucks but has improved.

Which is why Simmons may be better than Allen. Allen could never shoot and still is a liability in offense.

[ceperez]

Hopefully, he can develop like Will Barton who was a mediocre 3 pt shooter & is now shooting 40%. He is almost 25.

Sheesh... Simmons is already at 46.7% in the 3 point line this year. He doesn't take a lot, but in the last 3 games, he's been at 100%.

I can't understand folks who keep ignoring the obvious talent or selling the player short.

[cjw]

Sheesh... Simmons is already at 46.7% in the 3 point line this year. He doesn't take a lot, but in the last 3 games, he's been at 100%.

I can't understand folks who keep ignoring the obvious talent or selling the player short.

I think they want to see him keep it up over a larger sample size. You can't deny what he's best at though is a real skill - fearlessly attacking the rim with efficiency / drawing fouls. As his passing continues to improve off the dribble, it's going to make him playable with more lineups.

Defensively, I hope he is honing in at practice on how to fight through screens. He can be a real asset against a small ball GS lineup without a rim protector, but will kill us defensively if he's getting caught up on Draymond's moving picks.

[ceperez]

I think they want to see him keep it up over a larger sample size. You can't deny what he's best at though is a real skill - fearlessly attacking the rim with efficiency / drawing fouls. As his passing continues to improve off the dribble, it's going to make him playable with more lineups.

Defensively, I hope he is honing in at practice on how to fight through screens. He can be a real asset against a small ball GS lineup without a rim protector, but will kill us defensively if he's getting caught up on Draymond's moving picks.

Yeah, they want to be on the fence until they know they got a sure thing.

PATFO is defense first, however they aren't going to sign-up a player like Tony Allen that's going to be left open. That's why guys like Mbah a Moute weren't signed for the minimum. Rather, Butler who can shoot was signed.

Also explains why Jimmer was waived. He couldn't play defense.

McCallum can't play defense and will only be played when Parker or Mills isn't available. Was looking for more upside with Ray, but I guess that's not going to happen.

[ceperez]

Highlight play that wasn't posted:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HechvTHuIL0

BTW, if you look at the slow motion, he was actually fouled in the play!

[ceperez]

More highlights:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiqOW3JwM24

[SequSpur]

DFs can't even spell

[DJR210]

Highlight play that wasn't posted:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HechvTHuIL0

BTW, if you look at the slow motion, he was actually fouled in the play!

Making shit happen :tu

:worthy: JS

[ceperez]

Making shit happen :tu

:worthy: JS

Actually, making garbage into gold!

[ceperez]

Paying homage to the treasury and the vicarage:

https://giant.gfycat.com/AnguishedFeistyHoverfly.gif

[steeledl]

I love both of these guys. I was slow to the party on boban but I've bought in now. He is such a mismatch and has great skills for a guy his size.

[steeledl]

if Simmons tightens his handles.....:wow

[Agloco]

Seriously tho. Where's the love for this guy tonight? He's ballin out there.

[weeks]

Seriously tho. Where's the love for this guy tonight? He's ballin out there.
church is definitely in session tonight

[bklynspursfan]

He needs to take KA's minutes consistently now imo. He's been far more impressive and consistent. His ability to create off the dribble is huge off the bench

[100%duncan]

:worthy:

[exstatic]

http://www.mamafoundation.org/teens/choir.jpg

[LoneStarState'sPride]

Halleluyer :worthy:

[SpursFan86]

I'm actually a fan of how KA has played this year, but god damn, Simmons needs to start getting more of those 4th wing minutes. If he can develop into a serviceable spot-up 3 shooter and improve his D a bit, he'll be a serious threat out there. Hell, he already is one.

[Old School 44]

Simmons has a little of that Jack swagger. Great game!

[Darius McCrary]

Anyone got a link to his highlights

[steeledl]

Anyone got a link to his highlights

[r0drig0lac]

https://media.giphy.com/media/GEUOs9yMw1OpO/giphy.gif

[Gagnrath]

I don't like/think/feel the simmons in place of Anderson thing. Kyle is a small forward who can muster some minutes at the 2 but will end up probably being more of a tweener forward to spread the floor in a hybrid 3/4 role. Simmons is probably naturally a slashing 2 who has the size and strength to work in some match-ups as a small forward. Yes on the spurs the roles on offense can be somewhat redundant but they do have different matching on defense.

[steeledl]

https://media.giphy.com/media/GEUOs9yMw1OpO/giphy.gif


:lmao This one makes me lol everytime. That little girl feels the spirit within.

[Mel_13]

The guy was on Brooklyn's SL team before the Spurs signed him.

[Splits]

Simms was vicious tonight. Thought his D was above-serviceable, he played his ass off on both ends.

[ceperez]

6-7 from the field, 6-7 from FT ... total 18 points agains a long athletic Bucks team. That's not a bad performance!

Doubters, please start line up in the confession queue!

[TheGreatYacht]

Too many dunks. Expect the doghouse treatment, needs to get over himself :pop:

[ceperez]

Simms was vicious tonight. Thought his D was above-serviceable, he played his ass off on both ends.

He had to cover Carter-Williams in defense. He did a decent job. He had one monster block where a foul was called against him.

His quickness definitely puts him ahead of Anderson in the rotation.

[UZER]

Parker will snuff him out real quick.

[Mnky]

:lmao This one makes me lol everytime. That little girl feels the spirit within.

Cracks me up everytime too. :lol

[look_at_g_shred]

Spurs have never had a guy this athletic.

[bic50]

Spurs have never had a guy this athletic.

Shannon brown but nobody remembers that dude. :lol

[littlecoyotecoin]

Spurs have never had a guy this athletic.

Yes, we have, but not many...Derek Anderson comes to mind. The other #1 Anderson. He was every bit as athletic and agile. Just wasn't here long, had a rocky departure, injury, and it was quite a while back. Better, all-around than Simmons. But, expensive.

[ironman2886]

http://youtu.be/wdxeLZqAPno

[Floyd Pacquiao]

Notice how he holds back on his celebrations cause :pop: thinks it's not classy :cry:cry

[jermaine]

https://media.giphy.com/media/GEUOs9yMw1OpO/giphy.gif

I swear this is the best thing I've ever seen on ST!!!!! Lmmfao

[steeledl]

I'm in vegas on that PST..... Can we get some more simmons post while I still got a Simmons boner.

[tim_duncan_fan]

RC's reaction when some random guy he picked up that no one had heard of turns out really well for the Spurs:

https://images.rapgenius.com/e37a18de9fff97ba5196737c9bb7929f.600x336x1.jpg

[Splits]

Simms' dunkfest/highlights: http://www.nba.com/spurs/video/teams/spurs/2016/01/05/1451966637809-Highlights--J-Simms.mp4-210452

[spursistan]

Simmons made a big impression on Joe Prunty, the Bucks' interim coach.
"One of the biggest differences was Jonathan Simmons," Prunty said. "He really came in and affected the game. His energy, his effort, pushing the ball down the floor and how aggressive he was. He really impacted the game."
http://espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=400828403

[SAGirl]

I'm actually a fan of how KA has played this year, but god damn, Simmons needs to start getting more of those 4th wing minutes. If he can develop into a serviceable spot-up 3 shooter and improve his D a bit, he'll be a serious threat out there. Hell, he already is one.

I think that he will and has in the interest of getting him ready for the real playoff competition. He has to be priritized. Kyle and Boban are probably for the future and maybe injury/rest insurance and have upside, but are not going to play over other guys when everyone is healthy. They will still play bc we are blowing teams out and we rest guys. Perfect way to develop while we keep winning.

[SAGirl]

I don't like/think/feel the simmons in place of Anderson thing. Kyle is a small forward who can muster some minutes at the 2 but will end up probably being more of a tweener forward to spread the floor in a hybrid 3/4 role. Simmons is probably naturally a slashing 2 who has the size and strength to work in some match-ups as a small forward. Yes on the spurs the roles on offense can be somewhat redundant but they do have different matching on defense.

I don't like the comparisons either since I like both players and the comparison and competition thing takes away from my enjoyment of each guy individually. I defend Anderson staunchly bc I like him and he has had a lot of detractors, but Simmons is a very talented and very different. Kyle might ultimately be a 3/4 combo point forward like Diaw, not the same exactly, just similar. Simmons resembles Manu. Obviously we are not talking Manu/DiaW clones, those guys are unique, but so are these two. They are their own package that keeps unfolding before our eyes.

But just in who they remind me of, I see how dissimilar they are. We don't have minutes for both and We need to prioritize the best player of the two and the better fit but this current bench, but we are not so far off from needing KA to also contitribute mire, which he's not ready to do at a the level Diaw and West are. But just bc we need a "Manu" facsimile right away doesn't mean you want to give up your potential Diaw. And notice Manu and Diaw play so well together.

It is just not Kyle's time and it's probably fir the best since he needs to continue to work on his aggressiveness and his shots. Fir a guy as unathletic as he is he really needs to add that 3. Will complement Simmons nicely in the bench and will allow him to as also drive and make plays if they have to close out on his 3. He's not there yet. Simmons is game ready but these two are our bench future (Simmons' case present) and I don't like the constant competition and comparison since they are ultimately destined for different spots.

[ceperez]

http://espn.go.com/nba/recap?gameId=400828403

The difference is speed that Simmons brings will give defenses fits. Simmons +22 is an indicator of this.

Spurs thrive on the defense reacting, so historically a zone like defense gives problems. However, when you have players like Simmons who absolutely need to be covered when he gets to the paint, that becomes a major problem.

[ceperez]

I don't like the comparisons either since I like both players and the comparison and competition thing takes away from my enjoyment of each guy individually. I defend Anderson staunchly bc I like him and he has had a lot of detractors, but Simmons is a very talented and very different. Kyle might ultimately be a 3/4 combo point forward like Diaw, not the same exactly, just similar. Simmons resembles Manu. Obviously we are not talking Manu/DiaW clones, those guys are unique, but so are these two. They are their own package that keeps unfolding before our eyes.

But just in who they remind me of, I see how dissimilar they are. We don't have minutes for both and We need to prioritize the best player of the two and the better fit but this current bench, but we are not so far off from needing KA to also contitribute mire, which he's not ready to do at a the level Diaw and West are. But just bc we need a "Manu" facsimile right away doesn't mean you want to give up your potential Diaw. And notice Manu and Diaw play so well together.

It is just not Kyle's time and it's probably fir the best since he needs to continue to work on his aggressiveness and his shots. Fir a guy as unathletic as he is he really needs to add that 3. Will complement Simmons nicely in the bench and will allow him to as also drive and make plays if they have to close out on his 3. He's not there yet. Simmons is game ready but these two are our bench future (Simmons' case present) and I don't like the constant competition and comparison since they are ultimately destined for different spots.

You are correct that they are different kinds of players and really shouldn't be compared to each other. Nobody compares Manu with Diaw. So why should they do the same with Simmons and Anderson. It is like comparing Simmons with Boban since they are both rookies. Just not very logical.

Simmons will like get more playing time over Anderson this year. It is just because Simmons inserts a different kind of element into the mix when he's in the court. Not only in the half-court offense is he valuable, but in the fast breaks. Simmons is extremely fast down the court.

Like I've been saying day one, if anything, Simmons quickness is needed because it tires out opponent defensively and in offense you have that missing piece of a guy able to slash to the rim. Tony and Manu have aged to much that the slashing threat has been diminished.

[exstatic]

1vtio6p5ZB0

[ceperez]

1vtio6p5ZB0

Didn't realize that the dude dunked 3 times! His numbers are ridiculous... 6-7 shooting? That's like Boban Marjanovic numbers!

[SpursFan86]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vtio6p5ZB0

For those who might have missed the game last night.

[TheDoctor]

Teams haven't been prepared for Simms' athleticism. They're taking him lightly and are paying for it.

[ceperez]

Teams haven't been prepared for Simms' athleticism. They're taking him lightly and are paying for it.

You are right here in that the Bucks likely didn't prep for a scrub to be dunking on them with regularity.

Spurs have high standards, and great plays only count if they are executed in the playoffs.

[Darius McCrary]

Any video of Bucks fans chanting "Who are you"?

[100%duncan]

Any video of Bucks fans chanting "Who are you"?

[ceperez]

Highlights for Simmons against the Jazz:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWs7h-BH-wE

Sorry no dunks this time.... but he can definitely shoot the 3!

[BatManu20]

684854466890186752