Spurs @ Kings preseason Grades

[apalisoc_9]

Kawhi - Looks primed and comfortable offensively. Still need to be a little bit more aggressive. Scored 7 of his points from his steals 16 in 20 minutes could be misleading... Defense was not all time great material, but he's kawhi. A-

LMA - The spurs didn't really do much to give him the spacing people assumed he would get in spurs system. He looks fat and couldn't score in post ups. Defensively, he can obviously move and the effort was there. Hopefully we see SIGNIFICANTLY LESS LMA post ups and more Pnpop D-

Danny - Was forcing the issue a little bit. C

West - Made a jumper but otherwise underwhelming offensively. He looked somewhat slow defensively. C-

Patty - Looked spry and confident. Distributed pretty darn well and shot the ball really well..He's in great Shape A+

Anderson - Was the best performer. He looked competitive and made his jumpers..His ball handling ability will be crucial and hopefully it improves as Manu plays less and less with the ball A+

Simmons - Had a poor shooting night and forced a couple of situations. Still needs to learn how to play without the ball. Average defensively C+

Boban - Looked really mobile defensively and opposing players were clearly intimated by his size. Still needs to learn the offensive system. A bit slow with his hands. B-

Butler - Can clearly shoot. Defense is atrocious but should be fine for spot up minutes. B

Ray - is a much more confident shooter than Cojo, but he still needs to learn how to play with the offense better..Great game overall though. Made shots. B+

Jimmer - Looked like the retarded kid in pick up ball that we're all forced to pick sometimes because we don't want to be mean F

Bonner - lol...D-

Ndoye - Great garbage man like player. Very raw offensively. B

Williams - Underwhelming on both ends. C-

[TheGreatYacht]

Thomas - Underwhelming on both ends. C-


Thomas didn't even play, dumb fuck :lmao

[RD2191]

Thanks for the grades.

[ElNono]

:tu

[apalisoc_9]

I meant williams..The look alike tbh.

It's like those irrelevant niggas without photos in JRPG in the 90's IMO.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

Thanks for the grades bro :tu, I missed the game.

[LongtimeSpursFan]

Thomas didn't even play, dumb fuck :lmao

Fucking Pilipinos don't know shit. Hate when I have to fcuking call att to get my Uverse fixed and my call gets routed to Pilipines

[apalisoc_9]

Thanks for the grades bro :tu, I missed the game.

was fun despite the loss IMO.

I asked people to record the game in the thread..Hope someone did.

[BatManu20]

D- for Bonner is very generous. Guy sucked something fierce.

[RD2191]

Fucking Pilipinos don't know shit. Hate when I have to fcuking call att to get my Uverse fixed and my call gets routed to Pilipines

Get your faggotry out of here, queer.

[apalisoc_9]

D- for Bonner is very generous. Guy sucked something fierce.

Well he wasn't the worst player..IMO jimmer was so bad that I couldn't justify giving him the same grade as jimmer

[Nathan89]

Jimmer needs to push Bonner off the roster if he wants to make the team it appears after 1 game.

[TheGreatYacht]

Fucking Pilipinos don't know shit. Hate when I have to fcuking call att to get my Uverse fixed and my call gets routed to Pilipines
:lmao you ain't lying...

[SAGirl]

Jimmer needs to push Bonner off the roster if he wants to make the team it appears after 1 game.
Some guys acting like Bonner has it made and doesn't need to compete here. If he wasn't a vet in the team already, everyone would be all over kicking him like they are with Jimmer.

[Nathan89]

Some guys acting like Bonner has it made and doesn't need to compete here. If he wasn't a vet in the team already, everyone would be all over kicking him like they are with Jimmer.

On top of him not playing well we have Kawhi and KA that can play pf minutes if needed. While maintaining elite shooting in Butler. Jimmer could have a spot if he doesn't continue to be awful.

[Spurtacular]

Kawhi - Looks primed and comfortable offensively. Still need to be a little bit more aggressive. Scored 7 of his points from his steals 16 in 20 minutes could be misleading... Defense was not all time great material, but he's kawhi. A-


Guy is part of Rudy Gay going 10/13 for 26 points and he fucks up the easy assist to Jimmer for a three and he gets an A-. :lmao

[Spurtacular]

Some guys acting like Bonner has it made and doesn't need to compete here. If he wasn't a vet in the team already, everyone would be all over kicking him like they are with Jimmer.

I don't see Jimmer or Bonner losing their spots to Butler; given their contracts and that Butler would just be a redundant player who wouldn't play much behind Kawhi, Anderson, and Simmons.

Jimmer needs to pull his head out of his ass though. He played like crap tonight.

[SpurPadre]

D- for Bonner is very generous. Guy sucked something fierce.

What else is new? Motherfucker is the Donald Trump of basketball where the more bad stuff he does, the more he sticks around and doesn't go away.

[apalisoc_9]

Guy is part of Rudy Gay going 10/13 for 26 points and he fucks up the easy assist to Jimmer for a three and he gets an A-. :lmao

Guy got most of his points with kawhi seating..he made a run there. Guy played almsot 30 minutes in preaseason :lol

Glad he fuked up that assist to Jimmer tbh..Wouldn't want the organization getting cute ideas about jimmer imo. He did it for the team.

[YGWHI]

Thanks for the grades!!

I expected to see more Aldridge and Patty in pick and roll situations since they played together before...

It seems like Danny was right when he said the second unit "have got their chemistry down probably better than the first unit"...

[letmk]

- All the regular rotational players from last season (Kawhi, Green, Patty, etc.) are playing like what we've all known, including Bonner. Bonner is not on audition like players on unguaranteed contracts, so he is what he is.
- West plays like what he was last season, obviously not the West Spurs fans knew from NO years. But he is serviceable.
- KA is the biggest encouragement so far. He could become a real contributor to the team.
- Simmons should be graded a little higher. He is very active on both ends, and has some pretty good passes. Forced issues sometimes though, and handling needs to be improved.
- Ray was overwhelmed in the first half, but he settled down in the second half. He could play himself into the rotation, especially considering Tony is not the old Tony any more.
- Boban is actually more agile than we thought. For his size, avoiding cheap touch or bumping fouls by pump fake or guards from the perimeter is the #1 priority.
- Right now, it's a no-brainer that Butler is ahead of Jimmer.
- In all, all eyes are on LMA for the pre-season games as he is expected to be the biggest game-changer, and his mesh with the Spurs system makes-or-breaks the whole season. As of now his performance raises big concerns. It's not that he didn't make shots. It's that he doesn't seem comfortable with his teammates at all.

[SAGirl]

I don't see Jimmer or Bonner losing their spots to Butler; given their contracts and that Butler would just be a redundant player who wouldn't play much behind Kawhi, Anderson, and Simmons.

Jimmer needs to pull his head out of his ass though. He played like crap tonight.
Messina benched Bonner in the second quarter and played Butler at the 4 exchanging with Anderson. Unlike Bonner, Butler shot well and ran the floor better. The team immediately made a run. Bonner is done. If he's not shooting well he doesn't add anything. He's a nice guy and all, but I would not take him over Butler. I am not going to act like other guys didn't show they have more game than him tonight.

[FireMicoHalili]

Get your faggotry out of here, queer.
It's racism, and you should get your homophobia out of here. Fucking trash of the earth

[FireMicoHalili]

worst grades ever by the way!

[SAGirl]

About LMA, he didn't shoot well, but made his open looks. The shots he missed were all contested and he seemed uncomfortable. There is some lack of chemistry there but also the guys on the starting unit are not great playmakers, so they channeled the offense some through him. He doesn't have good chemistry with Danny and between the two if them botched some plays that could have been 3s for Danny. Not going to freak out about it.

[YGWHI]

Guy is part of Rudy Gay going 10/13 for 26 points and he fucks up the easy assist to Jimmer for a three and he gets an A-. :lmao

Kawhi? Not sure, Spurs turnovers in the perimeter gave him a couple of easy fast break opportunities, Gay exploited the missmatch against Patty several times, he got open looks in some plays 'cause Spurs double-team Cousins and our guys missed rotations, also played 10 minutes more, someone else had to defend him...

[HI-FI]

thanks for the grades as well since i missed the game.

[Maj_G]

grades are GARBAGE, it's the pre-season you clown!

[Fireball]

3 things ...

LMA looks out of shape, and it was obvious if he has to play center, then better not against guys like Cousins or Marc Gasol. I fear Timmy has to take this load.

Kyle Anderson looked sharp and seems to be able to contribute enough to more than offset his speed deficiencies on defense.
He is confident with his shot, but I missed his playmaking abilities. The Spurs need him as a solid rotation player this season.

And about Boban ... he is so much fun to watch. Now he needs to get into Cousins head so that he gets the T and not Boban himself.
To be so mobile he really lowers his shoulders and upper body, that's why his size did not translate into rebounds (he also did not jump at all).
But its encouraging that his defense was better than everybody thought, his offense will improve IMO ..

[DeRozan m8]

See, its time Bonner goes.
I've been lenient on him the past couple of years but fuck, someones gonna miss out who will no doubt be better than this red nuts.
Give him a job in the organization off the court and be done with it tbh

[DeRozan m8]

Also, I really wanna see some Boban footage from today

[AFMadison]

Kawhi - Looks primed and comfortable offensively. Still need to be a little bit more aggressive. Scored 7 of his points from his steals 16 in 20 minutes could be misleading... Defense was not all time great material, but he's kawhi. A-

LMA - The spurs didn't really do much to give him the spacing people assumed he would get in spurs system. He looks fat and couldn't score in post ups. Defensively, he can obviously move and the effort was there. Hopefully we see SIGNIFICANTLY LESS LMA post ups and more Pnpop D-

Danny - Was forcing the issue a little bit. C

West - Made a jumper but otherwise underwhelming offensively. He looked somewhat slow defensively. C-

Patty - Looked spry and confident. Distributed pretty darn well and shot the ball really well..He's in great Shape A+

Anderson - Was the best performer. He looked competitive and made his jumpers..His ball handling ability will be crucial and hopefully it improves as Manu plays less and less with the ball A+

Simmons - Had a poor shooting night and forced a couple of situations. Still needs to learn how to play without the ball. Average defensively C+

Boban - Looked really mobile defensively and opposing players were clearly intimated by his size. Still needs to learn the offensive system. A bit slow with his hands. B-

Butler - Can clearly shoot. Defense is atrocious but should be fine for spot up minutes. B

Ray - is a much more confident shooter than Cojo, but he still needs to learn how to play with the offense better..Great game overall though. Made shots. B+

Jimmer - Looked like the retarded kid in pick up ball that we're all forced to pick sometimes because we don't want to be mean F

Bonner - lol...D-

Ndoye - Great garbage man like player. Very raw offensively. B

Williams - Underwhelming on both ends. C-

Anderson C+
Jimmer D+
Bonner F
Boban C-
Simmons D+

[DrunkTXLabrat]

lol at Aldridge sounding like Anthony Bennett.

[BillMc]

Thomas didn't even play, dumb fuck :lmao
:lmao

[ceperez]

Kawhi - Off in his long range shooting. Missed two 3 point attempts in a row.

LMA - Out of shape. Couldn't hit anything.

Danny - Missed too many forced 3 point attempts.

West - Wasn't making his shots. I personally don't like his long 2 point attempts.

Patty - Absolutely ready for the regular season. Was a good glue player with the starters and the 2nd team.

Anderson - Looked patient, confident and could take anybody and score.

Simmons - Got duties bringing the ball up under pressure. Kept looking for opportunities and finding the open man. Wasn't looking to score.

Boban - Isn't a liability going up and down the court. A major intimidator, Kings were missing badly when he was around. Gave notice to the league by elbowing Cousins in the face. The guy can cause havoc with passing lanes with his long arms and huge hands (someone has bigger hands than Kawhi). An obvious intimidator when he was on the court. The team with McCallum, Simmons, Butler, Anderson and Marjanovic was close to completely shutting down the kings before they pulled out Marjanovic. He's still adjusting to the game in offense. Spurs will eventually figure out when best to pass him the ball.

Butler - Good offensive game. Forced some shots towards the end, but being 6'7" and able to shoot from outside, he was in a good lineup with Anderson and Simmons.

Ray - Couldn't orchestrate the offense but was very good when all he needed to do was catch and shoot. Took a long 3 point with a release that was ridiculously fast. I think he release the ball faster that even Mills.

Jimmer - Had one good setup for Aldridge, but otherwise missed open 3's and couldn't defend the smaller white guy on the court.

Bonner - Missed his one 3 pointer. Typical.

Ndoye - Raw center. Will need a couple years.

Williams - Didn't share the ball in offense.

-----------------

To conclude: Jimmer and Williams are redundant players whey you see that McCallum and Butler can both hit the 3 with equal ease. People are underestimating what Boban can do. KA is proving doubters wrong. I would like to see lock down defense from Simmons. Patty and LA are ready to play, LMA, West and Green aren't ready. The first team offense looks stagnant.

I predict the 2nd team will bail out the Spurs in the first part of the season.

[Chinook]

Grades based on expectations

Mills – Shouldn’t have started, as he’s a bench specialist. It took him a bit to get going, and he isn’t going to ignite the offense through his playmaking. Once he got some run with Anderson and Simmons, he took off. Can’t defend any legit PG, though. And I guess we have to call Rondo that to save some face for Mills. – A-

Green – Didn’t shoot well. Didn’t defend well. Thought he drove well, though. He had a couple of assists fail him off drive-and-dish and drive-and-kick plays. When he and Aldridge get their timing down, they should be able to run a serviceable PnP. That is if Danny stops trying to pocket-pass in traffic. – C+

Leonard – On offense he could get his shot when he had to, so that’s a plus. Still don’t like his game in relation to the Spurs, but seeing as the system is shot to hell with Aldridge on the roster, there’s hope that it all comes together. – B

West – At least at the beginning of the game, West seemed like a perfect fit for the team. He was money on his shot, made smart passes and overall just had heady play. He frayed a bit in the second half just like the rest of the starters did. – B

Aldridge – A 20-foot turnaround fadeaway might be the worst shot in the game, and Aldridge whipped it out at least once. This was a failed first attempt at letting him be the man, but it’s not like coaching was ideal. – C

McCallum – If that shooting holds up, he’s going to be a pretty good addition to the team. Thought he was out of place with the bench, so it’s good that Patty will be there. Don’t love his offensive game which consists of step-back midrange shots and threes. If he’s going to replace CoJo, he needs to get to the basket more. – B

Simmons – Was tentative to start the game and never did get up to the number of drives I wanted. Made some plays defensively, though, despite not really having a good game on that end. Hopefully, he gets some time with Mills and Anderson again, so that he can do more with the ball. Failed to box out WCS for the game-sealing rebound and sucked hard on the final play. – C

Anderson – Dude can get his shot whenever he wants. That’s the benefit of having an elite midrange game. He’s not a low-post guy unless he can sneak into ideal position before the catch. He’s not going to be backing down most guys due to his body structure. Was disappointed in his lack of play-making, though. I guess he has to score first to start forcing rotations. But the SL trend of him being a black hole (relative to his UCLA days) continues. – B+

Bonner – He’s done, and I hope the staff knows that and are willing to do what’s right. He can be a solid locker-room presence as an intern. Matt was underrated when was in his prime. But he’s hot garbage now. Took time away from more deserving guys, and that’ll be the case until he;s cut. – F

Butler – He was exactly what we could have hoped/expected him to be. He made his shots, did a little work inside. Boarded well. Seems like a great guy to have in the mix with Kyle and Jon. – A

Ndoye – Thought he was better defensively than Boban last night (though he was frazzled on offense). He was excellent at trapping guards, and he battled Cousins better than any other big. Think he would be a nice 15th man, though he’d be an even better d-leaguer who comes into camp next off-season. Would really like to see him and Cady develop more on the Toros. – B

Fredette- Awful. An absolute drag on the court last night. Made his teammates worse. Messed up spacing. Couldn’t do anything unless he had the ball in his hands. He made a nice pass to LMA (and Green should watch how that to see how to pass on a PnP) and another nice dish to Boban that was fumbled away. But Jimmer’s gonna need to score better to make the team. He’s like seventh in line for playmakers. – D-

Marjanovic – I didn’t like anything that he did outside of that last shot, honestly. Thought he got credit for the defensive plays of others (pretty sure Anderson got one of the blocks accredited to Boban). He was like the 11th guy this time, though. So I’m keen to see him with a more cohesive-looking rotation. – C+

Williams – Have no idea why this guy is even on the roster. He was never going to make the team, and he probably could have gotten a deal somewhere overseas. I guess we’ll have to see how he develops. May yet be trade bait. – F

Messina – I really think the Spurs messed up be hiring him. The chemistry just seems to be off since he came aboard. Last night, I thought his rotations were abysmal. The best lineup he put out was Mills/Simmons/Anderson/Butler/Ndoye in the middle of the second, and he never went back to it. I don’t blame him for the play-calling too much, as no one wants to show their hands in the preseason. But that only explains part of the lack of flow. Becky had the summer-league team rocking, and they had less time to gain chemistry. – D

[Raven]

:tu

[Manu-of-steel]

:lmao you ain't lying...

Fuck you faggot!

[TheGreatYacht]

:cry Fuck you faggot! :cry
???

[RD2191]

It's racism, and you should get your homophobia out of here. Fucking trash of the earth

Shut the fuck up faggot. Fucking disgusting piece of shit queer lover. You have aids yet, faggot?

[apalisoc_9]

Shut the fuck up faggot. Fucking disgusting piece of shit queer lover. You have aids yet, faggot?

:lmao

[UNT Eagles 2016]

Kawhi deserves no more than a C, Mills no more than a B. Anderson an A-. It's eh

[ChumpDumper]

Thomas didn't even play, dumb fuck :lmao:lol

I meant williams..The look alike tbh.

It's like those irrelevant niggas without photos in JRPG in the 90's IMO.Inherent racism in those statements aside, NBA players have their names printed clearly on their jerseys as well as larger numbers that uniquely correspond with their names on the team roster.

[Spurs9]

Grades after the first preseason game already? :lol

[Fireball]

Grades after the first preseason game already? :lol

well, they are game grades .. so nothing wrong with ... its all about not jumping to conclusions after a preseason game

[ceperez]

Grades based on expectations
Messina – I really think the Spurs messed up be hiring him. The chemistry just seems to be off since he came aboard. Last night, I thought his rotations were abysmal. The best lineup he put out was Mills/Simmons/Anderson/Butler/Ndoye in the middle of the second, and he never went back to it. I don’t blame him for the play-calling too much, as no one wants to show their hands in the preseason. But that only explains part of the lack of flow. Becky had the summer-league team rocking, and they had less time to gain chemistry. – D

Yeah, there something about Messina's influence with the coaching that I think is not right. I really am not sure as to what his philosophy is so I don't know just yet what it is.

The best lineup was McCallum/Simmons/Anderson/Butler/Marjanovic ... that's what they used to rally back.

I think they lost momentum when they subbed in Ndoye for Marjanovic.

Look at the stats... after 1:37 mark of 3rd quarter....

Spurs 64 - Sac 78
SAC doesn't score until 8:06 in the 4th. Marjanovic is subbed at the 9:47 mark the game was 74-78. 10 point difference.

[Chinook]

Yeah, there something about Messina's influence with the coaching that I think is not right. I really am not sure as to what his philosophy is so I don't know just yet what it is.

The best lineup was McCallum/Simmons/Anderson/Butler/Marjanovic ... that's what they used to rally back.

I think they lost momentum when they subbed in Ndoye for Marjanovic.

Look at the stats... after 1:37 mark of 3rd quarter....

Spurs 64 - Sac 78
SAC doesn't score until 8:06 in the 4th. Marjanovic is subbed at the 9:47 mark the game was 74-78. 10 point difference.

Was talking about the second-quarter lineup that was holding its own against SAC's starters. That second-half unit benefitted from McCallum going crazy. I don't think it was sustainable. But yeah, Simmons, Anderson and Butler were key to both groups. Butler played the Eddie role from the SL.

[Darius McCrary]

Mad props to that funny lookin weeble wobble headed Kyle Anderson

[Splits]

Yeah, there something about Messina's influence with the coaching that I think is not right. I really am not sure as to what his philosophy is so I don't know just yet what it is.

The best lineup was McCallum/Simmons/Anderson/Butler/Marjanovic ... that's what they used to rally back.

I think they lost momentum when they subbed in Ndoye for Marjanovic.

Look at the stats... after 1:37 mark of 3rd quarter....

Spurs 64 - Sac 78
SAC doesn't score until 8:06 in the 4th. Marjanovic is subbed at the 9:47 mark the game was 74-78. 10 point difference.

I think the issue is that The BOBAN can't play more than a few game minutes at a time without a breather, or as ElNono said, a smoke break :lol

[Splits]

:lol
Inherent racism in those statements aside, NBA players have their names printed clearly on their jerseys as well as larger numbers that uniquely correspond with their names on the team roster.

:lol

[K...]

Shut the fuck up faggot. Fucking disgusting piece of shit queer lover. You have aids yet, faggot?

You could have pointed out that your original response was calling out the casual racism in calling Philippine people lame. But that would have required intelligence and tact

[RD2191]

You could have pointed out that your original response was calling out the casual racism in calling Philippine people lame. But that would have required intelligence and tact

Shut up, faggot.

[Tuddy]

Fredettes d is historically bad imo. Bad man defenders can mask
their defencies with good team d but he's lost all round

[ElNono]

In Messina's defense, I think he did a good job of letting players just play for somewhat extended periods of time, which is really what they're looking at now. Right now is more about taking a look at players competing, see who's ready, who is not, much more so than trying to establish rotations and winning. I expected the first two or so preseason games to focus on that, followed by some cuts, then you get the last couple of games before the season starts to establish a rotation and see how it all works out.

I thought generally he did a good job of that. I don't think you can't say X player played too little or not enough to get an idea of where said player is at right now.

[TheGreatYacht]

:lol
Inherent racism in those statements aside, NBA players have their names printed clearly on their jerseys as well as larger numbers that uniquely correspond with their names on the team roster.
:lol

[ChumpDumper]

In Messina's defense, I think he did a good job of letting players just play for somewhat extended periods of time, which is really what they're looking at now. Right now is more about taking a look at players competing, see who's ready, who is not, much more so than trying to establish rotations and winning. I expected the first two or so preseason games to focus on that, followed by some cuts, then you get the last couple of games before the season starts to establish a rotation and see how it all works out.

I thought generally he did a good job of that. I don't think you can't say X player played too little or not enough to get an idea of where said player is at right now.True, given the mishmash of available players they just wanted to see each play a bit. I thought Karl's defensive scheme was what made the difference on that last possession tbh.

[playbonner15]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4sH1ii2M0A

Now I wanna see Big Dick Boban dicking Howard or DeAndre

[Brian Windhorst]

Is Bonner's contract fully guaranteed?

The moment I saw them put Butler at the 4, it occurred to me that Matt is actually fighting for a roster spot tbh. He has ice packs on both legs before even checking in, and can't hit the broad side of a barn. Sad to say, but if Butler plays like that from the 4 spot for the rest of the preseason, there is really no point in keeping Bonner around tbh. Make him a FO guy or something. Jimmer was putrid but I'd rather take a flier on him and hope he gets it together, or just have an open spot, than have both Bonner and Butler, and Butler was clearly the superior NBA player last night.

Aldridge, West, and Simmons looked totally lost out there last night unfortunately.

Aldridge floating around is going to become a common theme if Pop's playcalling is anything like Messina's, tbh. LMA strikes me as a guy that needs isolation possessions to get himself going. The whole 'beautiful game' thing just assured that he was never in rhythm and he deferred to Patty on most of his high post possessions. Doesn't help that the offense is STILL a trainwreck when there isn't a ballhandler on the floor.

I was dumbfounded how few postup isolations were called for Aldridge, given the fact that the starting lineup couldn't do shit but play motion and take a late shotclock heave. It reminded me of last year tbh.

Kawhi looked good on offense, but got cheesed by Rudy Gay again...

[HarlemHeat37]

Tough to judge players on preseason games with no established roles or structure, outside of obvious observations(Bonner sticking out, Aldridge looking chubby, Anderson's confidence, etc)..

[HarlemHeat37]

Is Bonner's contract fully guaranteed?

The moment I saw them put Butler at the 4, it occurred to me that Matt is actually fighting for a roster spot tbh. He has ice packs on both legs before even checking in, and can't hit the broad side of a barn. Sad to say, but if Butler plays like that from the 4 spot for the rest of the preseason, there is really no point in keeping Bonner around tbh. Make him a FO guy or something. Jimmer was putrid but I'd rather take a flier on him and hope he gets it together, or just have an open spot, than have both Bonner and Butler, and Butler was clearly the superior NBA player last night.

Aldridge, West, and Simmons looked totally lost out there last night unfortunately.

Aldridge floating around is going to become a common theme if Pop's playcalling is anything like Messina's, tbh. LMA strikes me as a guy that needs isolation possessions to get himself going. The whole 'beautiful game' thing just assured that he was never in rhythm and he deferred to Patty on most of his high post possessions. Doesn't help that the offense is STILL a trainwreck when there isn't a ballhandler on the floor.

I was dumbfounded how few postup isolations were called for Aldridge, given the fact that the starting lineup couldn't do shit but play motion and take a late shotclock heave. It reminded me of last year tbh.

Kawhi looked good on offense, but got cheesed by Rudy Gay again...

:lol not sure what game you watched, tbh..

[Brian Windhorst]

:lol not sure what game you watched, tbh..

28 points in the paint
As many shots for Aldridge as Kawhi and Anderson
Starting lineup with a putrid +/-
http://muslimgirl.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/confused-muslim-girl.jpg

[ceperez]

Is Bonner's contract fully guaranteed?

The moment I saw them put Butler at the 4, it occurred to me that Matt is actually fighting for a roster spot tbh. He has ice packs on both legs before even checking in, and can't hit the broad side of a barn. Sad to say, but if Butler plays like that from the 4 spot for the rest of the preseason, there is really no point in keeping Bonner around tbh. Make him a FO guy or something. Jimmer was putrid but I'd rather take a flier on him and hope he gets it together, or just have an open spot, than have both Bonner and Butler, and Butler was clearly the superior NBA player last night.

Aldridge, West, and Simmons looked totally lost out there last night unfortunately.

Aldridge floating around is going to become a common theme if Pop's playcalling is anything like Messina's, tbh. LMA strikes me as a guy that needs isolation possessions to get himself going. The whole 'beautiful game' thing just assured that he was never in rhythm and he deferred to Patty on most of his high post possessions. Doesn't help that the offense is STILL a trainwreck when there isn't a ballhandler on the floor.

I was dumbfounded how few postup isolations were called for Aldridge, given the fact that the starting lineup couldn't do shit but play motion and take a late shotclock heave. It reminded me of last year tbh.

Kawhi looked good on offense, but got cheesed by Rudy Gay again...

Simmons had the highest +/- of the entire team at 18. He had 5 rebounds and 4 assists and 1 steal. Those are stats of someone who knows what he's doing. Sure he had a terrible shooting night, but he made up in all other things.

+/0 of West was -14 LMA was -21, Aldridge has Zero assists... that's a sign of a guy that is totally lost!!

I think Spurs might have acquired a very expensive catch and shoot player.

[HarlemHeat37]

28 points in the paint
As many shots for Aldridge as Kawhi and Anderson
Starting lineup with a putrid +/-
http://muslimgirl.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/confused-muslim-girl.jpg

They ran a ton of Aldridge post-ups, they were treating him like Zach Randolph..I don't have replay footage, but if I had to guess, the PPP on those plays was terrible..

[SAGirl]

In Messina's defense, I think he did a good job of letting players just play for somewhat extended periods of time, which is really what they're looking at now. Right now is more about taking a look at players competing, see who's ready, who is not, much more so than trying to establish rotations and winning. I expected the first two or so preseason games to focus on that, followed by some cuts, then you get the last couple of games before the season starts to establish a rotation and see how it all works out.

I thought generally he did a good job of that. I don't think you can't say X player played too little or not enough to get an idea of where said player is at right now.
Agree with this. I share Chinook' s and other concerns about Messina, but I have to agree there was a degree of limitation since you have to give guys decent slots of time to show their game and he was probably obligated to make some if the subs he made. He did make some adjustments in lineups that allowed the team a winning opportunity despite LMA having a bad game and Danny being cold, out of rhythm with LMA and forcing things. It's tough to jump to conclusions at the starting lineup. If you had to roll a few games without the big 3 due to rest during the season, I am not sure you want Danny to start. That unit needed more ball movement and action. Danny as a spot up shooter doesn't add much there. Can't draw too much from this and I would hate to split the combo of Kyle/Simmons bc those two guys play really well together and as long as they were paired up they shined. I really really like their potential. So, overall not sure what can be done concerning the main unit. Batum is a terrific playmaker and added a dimension to LMA game and the looks he got in Portland that we didn't see last night and I am not sure this starting group has any playmakers like that. I hope that w/ Timmy and Tony it will look better, but I have my concerns, too many iso guys a spot shooter and no playmakers does not a high scoring starting unit make. I am afraid that group will again depend on Tony to create looks and that is precisely what we wanted to alleviate.

No overreaction, just observations from one game and where guys are at.

I really liked Kawhi' s aggressiveness. He's going to have a good year.

[SAGirl]

Is Bonner's contract fully guaranteed?

The moment I saw them put Butler at the 4, it occurred to me that Matt is actually fighting for a roster spot tbh. He has ice packs on both legs before even checking in, and can't hit the broad side of a barn. Sad to say, but if Butler plays like that from the 4 spot for the rest of the preseason, there is really no point in keeping Bonner around tbh. Make him a FO guy or something. Jimmer was putrid but I'd rather take a flier on him and hope he gets it together, or just have an open spot, than have both Bonner and Butler, and Butler was clearly the superior NBA player last night.
I kind of have been proclaiming that Bonner is done since last season ended and I did not want him back this season. Seeing him w the icepacks or calf warmers whatever that was made me feel sorry for him. I kind of feel bad criticizing him so much but to see him not being able to contribute, looking like he's breaking down to start the season and with a cold hand on his two 3s it's tough. I wish nothing but the best for Bonner personally, but as a player I don't know....

[TimDunkem]

As much as I'd like to believe that Bonner is competing for a spot, that's just not the case. The guy has a guaranteed spot on that bench until he decides to retire.

[Chinook]

Agree with this. I share Chinook' s and other concerns about Messina, but I have to agree there was a degree of limitation since you have to give guys decent slots of time to show their game and he was probably obligated to make some if the subs he made. He did make some adjustments in lineups that allowed the team a winning opportunity despite LMA having a bad game and Danny being cold, out of rhythm with LMA and forcing things. It's tough to jump to conclusions at the starting lineup. If you had to roll a few games without the big 3 due to rest during the season, I am not sure you want Danny to start. That unit needed more ball movement and action. Danny as a spot up shooter doesn't add much there. Can't draw too much from this and I would hate to split the combo of Kyle/Simmons bc those two guys play really well together and as long as they were paired up they shined. I really really like their potential. So, overall not sure what can be done concerning the main unit. Batum is a terrific playmaker and added a dimension to LMA game and the looks he got in Portland that we didn't see last night and I am not sure this starting group has any playmakers like that. I hope that w/ Timmy and Tony it will look better, but I have my concerns, too many iso guys a spot shooter and no playmakers does not a high scoring starting unit make. I am afraid that group will again depend on Tony to create looks and that is precisely what we wanted to alleviate.

No overreaction, just observations from one game and where guys are at.

I really liked Kawhi' s aggressiveness. He's going to have a good year.

The reason why Joseph was valuable to the Spurs is that he could spot-start and do some of the things Parker could do. That allowed the Spurs to be relatively normal while Mills could stay in his role on the bench. McCallum is that guy now. He would start if Parker couldn't go, and while he's not the driver than Cory is, he's good enough to work with Leonard and LMA getting so many touches. Green is not a secondary play-maker. He's not even a tertiary play-maker. He can do some things with the ball if he doesn't have to get creative. But that's pretty much it.

Maybe Pop told Messina what lineups to go with. But starting Mills made no sense. You want Patty in his normal role, and that would have put Simmons and Anderson not only in roles they're comfortable with from their SL days (half-court play-makers) but also roles theyre likeliest to have in real games. McCallum would have the role HE'S most likely to have when he plays. Everything would have made sense.

The team's two biggest runs came when Patty was on the floor with other ball-handlers and when McCallum was able to space the floor next to those same ball-handlers. Both halves started with a unit that had no chemistry and nothing to go to by LMA and Leonard post-ups. They're paying Ray a million bucks to avoid that scenario in real time.

That being said, the real first unit will look a lot better. The Spurs will be running their actual offense to get LMA good looks. Chemistry will be better with four guys who've played together for four years. Green can focus on catching and shooting or at worst driving only when he has a good angle. I'm not too worried yet.

[SAGirl]

The reason why Joseph was valuable to the Spurs is that he could spot-start and do some of the things Parker could do. That allowed the Spurs to be relatively normal while Mills could stay in his role on the bench. McCallum is that guy now. He would start if Parker couldn't go, and while he's not the driver than Cory is, he's good enough to work with Leonard and LMA getting so many touches. Green is not a secondary play-maker. He's not even a tertiary play-maker. He can do some things with the ball if he doesn't have to get creative. But that's pretty much it.

Maybe Pop told Messina what lineups to go with. But starting Mills made no sense. You want Patty in his normal role, and that would have put Simmons and Anderson not only in roles they're comfortable with from their SL days (half-court play-makers) but also roles theyre likeliest to have in real games. McCallum would have the role HE'S most likely to have when he plays. Everything would have made sense.

The team's two biggest runs came when Patty was on the floor with other ball-handlers and when McCallum was able to space the floor next to those same ball-handlers. Both halves started with a unit that had no chemistry and nothing to go to by LMA and Leonard post-ups. They're paying Ray a million bucks to avoid that scenario in real time.

That being said, the real first unit will look a lot better. The Spurs will be running their actual offense to get LMA good looks. Chemistry will be better with four guys who've played together for four years. Green can focus on catching and shooting or at worst driving only when he has a good angle. I'm not too worried yet.
I think Mills starting yesterday was by Pop's design, since there were photos from Mills in training camp with the black jersey. That first unit has been struggling some to get going if you read between the lines from Danny's comments. Next game, chemistry issues for the main unit is something to look at. The second unit was fantastic with either Mills or Ray, and Butler. Kyle and Simmons are the epicenter and make stuff happen which gets me excited for their development since they can make it work w several guys. I now have no concerns over Manu and he will enjoy playing with them and mentoring them. I like Butler as a pick up as well. Neither Ray, nor Mills is a playmaker and Johnny's ballhandling issues require him to play as a 2 like Manu, to take some burden from him particularly if he's pressured.

I don't know why Pop wanted Mills to start but it must be concerns with the starting unit, since the second unit could make it work with either guy. Maybe Ray is not ready yet or it is experimental. I like some plays Jimmer made off the dribble. I had never seen him an He has a good handle. It's too bad he looked so poorly in other areas. At one point he was subbed in next to Party and I do have to admit I am not sure what Messina was looking for there. I'll give another chance to Jimmer, but so far, Butler and Simmons look better.

[Boomersgold]

The reason why Joseph was valuable to the Spurs is that he could spot-start and do some of the things Parker could do. That allowed the Spurs to be relatively normal while Mills could stay in his role on the bench. McCallum is that guy now. He would start if Parker couldn't go, and while he's not the driver than Cory is, he's good enough to work with Leonard and LMA getting so many touches. Green is not a secondary play-maker. He's not even a tertiary play-maker. He can do some things with the ball if he doesn't have to get creative. But that's pretty much it.

Maybe Pop told Messina what lineups to go with. But starting Mills made no sense. You want Patty in his normal role, and that would have put Simmons and Anderson not only in roles they're comfortable with from their SL days (half-court play-makers) but also roles theyre likeliest to have in real games. McCallum would have the role HE'S most likely to have when he plays. Everything would have made sense.

The team's two biggest runs came when Patty was on the floor with other ball-handlers and when McCallum was able to space the floor next to those same ball-handlers. Both halves started with a unit that had no chemistry and nothing to go to by LMA and Leonard post-ups. They're paying Ray a million bucks to avoid that scenario in real time.

That being said, the real first unit will look a lot better. The Spurs will be running their actual offense to get LMA good looks. Chemistry will be better with four guys who've played together for four years. Green can focus on catching and shooting or at worst driving only when he has a good angle. I'm not too worried yet.

You forget that although Cojo started on paper when Parker was out, Pop gave Mills most of the PG minutes and would often (if not always) play him down the stretch. In games that Parker doesn't play in, Mills isn't going to be exclusively used with the bench. He'll likely be called on to finish games too and this means he'll need to learn to play with the starting 5 (minus Parker and w/ LMA). The preseason's about finding the right lineups and developing chemistry. Things can only get better from here.

[tholdren]

Lol at the grades. Lma looked sterile. Take that with the fact he's talking to media about being scared makes me wonder if he has a pair. How is ray a pg? Terrible

[james evans]

I have watched 1 preseason game in the past 20+ years(and that was the spurs exhibition last season they lost). Preseason shows us nothing. The teams that play hard will be the garbage teams trying to prove something. The good teams just go through the motions. People get excited over absolutely nothing. Preseason games show us absolutely NOTHING!!!!

[ChumpDumper]

I have watched 1 preseason game in the past 20+ years(and that was the spurs exhibition last season they lost). Preseason shows us nothing. The teams that play hard will be the garbage teams trying to prove something. The good teams just go through the motions. People get excited over absolutely nothing. Preseason games show us absolutely NOTHING!!!!How would you know if you only watched one in the past 20 years?

[james evans]

How would you know if you only watched one in the past 20 years?
because I look at highlights. There is a program called sportscenter that's been on ESPN for a few decades. There is an NBA channel on DirectTv. Preseason means shit. We've always had sub par preseason games. You don't show your hand before the season starts.

[ChumpDumper]

because I look at highlights. There is a program called sportscenter that's been on ESPN for a few decades. There is an NBA channel on DirectTv. Preseason means shit. We've always had sub par preseason games. You don't show your hand before the season starts.So you saw like ten seconds of game action and from that can conclude that the entire game showed nothing?

[dabom]

If preseason meant anything duncan porker and manu would have been there and pop would be coaching.

Chump. :lmao

[ChumpDumper]

If preseason meant anything duncan porker and manu would have been there and pop would be coaching.

Chump. :lmaoSo what did you conclude from watching the game, dabom?

Or did you not watch it?

[dabom]

So what did you conclude from watching the game, dabom?

Or did you not watch it?

Couldn't careless about pre-season games. I was sleeping by then. Not even pop cares about them. Kinda like in-game interviews.

So what do you think about preseason games? Give us an important scale from 1-10 and how you came to that conclusion.

[ChumpDumper]

Couldn't careless about pre-season games. I was sleeping by then. Not even pop cares about them. Kinda like in-game interviews.

So what do you think about preseason games? Give us an important scale from 1-10 and how you came to that conclusion.They're most important regarding new or marginal players and to get an idea where vets are compared to when they last played. Pretty simple -- I don't know why you would need this explained to you.

And I don't understand why people comment on games they haven't watched and couldn't care less about.

[dabom]

They're most important regarding new or marginal players and to get an idea where vets are compared to when they last played. Pretty simple -- I don't know why you would need this explained to you.

And I don't understand why people comment on games they haven't watched and couldn't care less about.

Important to players I don't care about watching. An upgrade over summer league. :lmao

There are other methods to understand a game besides just watching it if you haven't noticed. I don't know why I need this explained to you. :lmao

[james evans]

This is dude still in here trying to explain why preseason games are important. The last time I checked, when the REAL season starts, the standings are 0-0 for all teams.

[ChumpDumper]

Important to players I don't care about watching. An upgrade over summer league. :lmao

There are other methods to understand a game besides just watching it if you haven't noticed. I don't know why I need this explained to you. :lmao:lol never watches games


This is dude still in here trying to explain why preseason games are important. The last time I checked, when the REAL season starts, the standings are 0-0 for all teams.Two dudes whining about games they don't watch. :lol

[K...]

Wow casual fans trying to defend not watching the game...lol..It was a good game. It was actual basketball and mostly not too ugly. If nothing else this was a game without Parker.

It's fine to have skipped the game. Just don't talk shit about meaningless games. The whole rs is meaningless, life is meaningless, but we still do it because we are fans! ! , ,


Didn't dabom start a thread before the game "I'm so excited" and didn't he post overnight about the game? For someone who slept through it you sure did care a lot about it.

[dabom]

Wow casual fans trying to defend not watching the game...lol..It was a good game. It was actual basketball and mostly not too ugly. If nothing else this was a game without Parker.

It's fine to have skipped the game. Just don't talk shit about meaningless games. The whole rs is meaningless, life is meaningless, but we still do it because we are fans! ! , ,


Didn't dabom start a thread before the game "I'm so excited" and didn't he post overnight about the game? For someone who slept through it you sure did care a lot about it.

Finish that sentence boy. I'm excited for the new season not pre-season. :lmao

[dabom]

:lol never watches games

Two dudes whining about games they don't watch. :lol

Where did you get I don't watch games? :lmao

Basing everything off a preseason game. :lmao

[dabom]

PS sidenote. I hope chump raises the bar this season. Preseason is a little weak. :lmao

[ChumpDumper]

Where did you get I don't watch games? :lmaoWhen you say you don't watch games.


Basing everything off a preseason game. :lmaolol everything


PS sidenote. I hope chump raises the bar this season. Preseason is a little weak. :lmaoPS: You're always going to be a shitty poster. You can't help it.

[dabom]

When you say you don't watch games.

lol everything

PS: You're always going to be a shitty poster. You can't help it.

Replying to my quote and saying never watches games you stupid fuck. Who else where you directing that too? :lmao

You're insecurities are showing again. No one here thinks you know anything about basketball. :lmao

[apalisoc_9]

dabom just raping chump right now...

[dabom]

Let me clarify. Saying I didn't watch a game doesn't mean you can conclude I never watch games. :lmao

[ChumpDumper]

Replying to my quote and saying never watches games you stupid fuck. Who else where you directing that too? :lmaoYou're always commenting on games you don't watch. :lmao


You're insecurities are showing again. No one here thinks you know anything about basketball. :lmaoYou're whining about games you don't watch. :lmao

[ChumpDumper]

dabom just rapping chump right now...Yet you are compelled to help him.

[dabom]

You're always commenting on games you don't watch. :lmao

You're whining about games you don't watch. :lmao

Back pedaling. :lmao

[dabom]

Yet you are compelled to help him.

How is apol helping me in your mind? :lmao

[dabom]

dabom just raping chump right now...

Always stay winning man. :lol

[Wilt Chamberlain]

- All the regular rotational players from last season (Kawhi, Green, Patty, etc.) are playing like what we've all known, including Bonner. Bonner is not on audition like players on unguaranteed contracts, so he is what he is. - West plays like what he was last season, obviously not the West Spurs fans knew from NO years. But he is serviceable.- KA is the biggest encouragement so far. He could become a real contributor to the team.- Simmons should be graded a little higher. He is very active on both ends, and has some pretty good passes. Forced issues sometimes though, and handling needs to be improved. - Ray was overwhelmed in the first half, but he settled down in the second half. He could play himself into the rotation, especially considering Tony is not the old Tony any more.- Boban is actually more agile than we thought. For his size, avoiding cheap touch or bumping fouls by pump fake or guards from the perimeter is the #1 priority.- Right now, it's a no-brainer that Butler is ahead of Jimmer.- In all, all eyes are on LMA for the pre-season games as he is expected to be the biggest game-changer, and his mesh with the Spurs system makes-or-breaks the whole season. As of now his performance raises big concerns. It's not that he didn't make shots. It's that he doesn't seem comfortable with his teammates at all.Aldridge has likely been playing extensively with the starters while they mesh that unit. The big 3 then don't make the trip. Him looking uncomfortable is expected I would think as he is now playing with lineups he has never seen before.

[ChumpDumper]

Back pedaling. :lmao


How is apol helping me in your mind? :lmao


Always stay winning man. :lol:lol three consecutive posts in a thread you don't care about.

[dabom]

:lol three consecutive posts in a thread you don't care about.

I'm done for tonight. Maybe I can set you up for tomorrow around this time to slap you around for a bit. :lol

[ChumpDumper]

I'm done for tonight. Maybe I can set you up for tomorrow around this time to slap you around for a bit. :lolYeah, come back here and post ten more times about how much you don't care. That'll show me. :lmao

[james evans]

Let me clarify. Saying I didn't watch a game doesn't mean you can conclude I never watch games. :lmao
i don't ever watch preseason games. They mean shit and I watch at least 70 regular season games. no less than that.

[ChumpDumper]

i don't ever watch preseason games. They mean shit and I watch at least 70 regular season games. no less than that.Good for you. Say it again so we all know you don't care three times over.

[dabom]

i don't ever watch preseason games. They mean shit and I watch at least 70 regular season games. no less than that.

Preseason is just that. PRE SEASON. Not the actual season. I might watch a quarter or two but no one is actually trying.

[K...]

I'm done for tonight. Maybe I can set you up for tomorrow around this time to slap you around for a bit. :lol

whats with these early bedtimes? are you old bro.......?

[ChumpDumper]

I'm done for tonight. Maybe I can set you up for tomorrow around this time to slap you around for a bit. :lol


Preseason is just that. PRE SEASON. Not the actual season. I might watch a quarter or two but no one is actually trying.:lmao

[K...]

Preseason is just that. PRE SEASON. Not the actual season. I might watch a quarter or two but no one is actually trying.

do yourself a favor and watch the replay. it was a good game! And stop apologizing for not watching. Jeez, its a sports forum, you watch sport, you comment, you don't watch you shut up.

[dabom]

whats with these early bedtimes? are you old bro.......?

Nah man. Just been mine schedule lately.

[Ice009]

See, its time Bonner goes.
I've been lenient on him the past couple of years but fuck, someones gonna miss out who will no doubt be better than this red nuts.
Give him a job in the organization off the court and be done with it tbh

Like I said a day or two ago - If Bonner can't hit a shot anymore then he needs to go. There is no need for him on the team anymore. Move him to the front office and give that spot to someone who can contribute on the court.

It pisses me off that someone who might be better will probably be cut and he still makes the team. I hope the Spurs seriously take a look at him and that his roster spot is in question based on performance.

[sexinthatsx]

One of the worst grade readups in a while

[ChumpDumper]

One of the worst grade readups in a whileThere are a couple of decent ones on page 2.

[ceperez]

I think Mills starting yesterday was by Pop's design, since there were photos from Mills in training camp with the black jersey. That first unit has been struggling some to get going if you read between the lines from Danny's comments. Next game, chemistry issues for the main unit is something to look at. The second unit was fantastic with either Mills or Ray, and Butler. Kyle and Simmons are the epicenter and make stuff happen which gets me excited for their development since they can make it work w several guys. I now have no concerns over Manu and he will enjoy playing with them and mentoring them. I like Butler as a pick up as well. Neither Ray, nor Mills is a playmaker and Johnny's ballhandling issues require him to play as a 2 like Manu, to take some burden from him particularly if he's pressured.

I don't know why Pop wanted Mills to start but it must be concerns with the starting unit, since the second unit could make it work with either guy. Maybe Ray is not ready yet or it is experimental. I like some plays Jimmer made off the dribble. I had never seen him an He has a good handle. It's too bad he looked so poorly in other areas. At one point he was subbed in next to Party and I do have to admit I am not sure what Messina was looking for there. I'll give another chance to Jimmer, but so far, Butler and Simmons look better.

Great observations.

The first unit is missing the only two play makers. Parker and Duncan.

The 2nd unit playmakers are Manu and Diaw. They were also missing. However, Anderson and Simmons were able to carry that load. Between the two of them, 9 assists were dished out.

I think it became obvious in this game that McCallum is a Mills like player. PG in name only, but really a SG.

I found that interesting too that both Mills and Jimmer were in the court at the same time. Nothing came out of it, but who knows whether either was prepared for that kind of a setup.

Butler seemed to fit in well with Anderson and Simmons. Some folks though were saying that he was just play like Eddie.... that role play who just stands stationary in one spot waiting to catch and shoot.

Although we've seen a lot of Simmons and Anderson on the court together, what I find disappointing is a rarely seem them play of each other. If they can figure out a two man game, then it'll be devastating for the opponent.

[Ice009]

Tough to judge players on preseason games with no established roles or structure, outside of obvious observations(Bonner sticking out, Aldridge looking chubby, Anderson's confidence, etc)..

Why does Aldridge look like shit physically? He doesn't look like he's in shape at all. What has he been doing during the off-season.

Bonner needs to go. I would like to give him more than 1 game to prove me wrong, but between last night and all of last season, he looks completely done. I hope his spot on the roster is up for grabs.

[Boomersgold]

Great observations.

The first unit is missing the only two play makers. Parker and Duncan.

The 2nd unit playmakers are Manu and Diaw. They were also missing. However, Anderson and Simmons were able to carry that load. Between the two of them, 9 assists were dished out.

I think it became obvious in this game that McCallum is a Mills like player. PG in name only, but really a SG.

I found that interesting too that both Mills and Jimmer were in the court at the same time. Nothing came out of it, but who knows whether either was prepared for that kind of a setup.

Butler seemed to fit in well with Anderson and Simmons. Some folks though were saying that he was just play like Eddie.... that role play who just stands stationary in one spot waiting to catch and shoot.

Although we've seen a lot of Simmons and Anderson on the court together, what I find disappointing is a rarely seem them play of each other. If they can figure out a two man game, then it'll be devastating for the opponent.

Funny that people are overlooking that Mills led the team in assists. Mills is definitely a SG, but he's now more comfortable creating plays for his team mates when the shot's not there.

[ceperez]

Funny that people are overlooking that Mills led the team in assists. Mills is definitely a SG, but he's now more comfortable creating plays for his team mates when the shot's not there.

I agree, for both the 1st and 2nd team, he was doing very well to orchestrate both offenses.

[ceperez]

Why does Aldridge look like shit physically? He doesn't look like he's in shape at all. What has he been doing during the off-season.

Bonner needs to go. I would like to give him more than 1 game to prove me wrong, but between last night and all of last season, he looks completely done. I hope his spot on the roster is up for grabs.

Same observation, Aldridge looks out of shape. Did he not participate in USA basketball with Kawhi? I can't figure out why he's got so much weight on him.

[Kawhitstorm]

#fuckbonner

[TheDoctor]

Same observation, Aldridge looks out of shape. I can't figure out why he's got so much weight on him.

Apparently he unlocked the "Eating your Paycheck" badge in Whataburger's app during summer.

#Porkdridge

[SnakeBoy]

Why does Aldridge look like shit physically? He doesn't look like he's in shape at all. What has he been doing during the off-season.


Moving

[TD 21]

Some guys acting like Bonner has it made and doesn't need to compete here. If he wasn't a vet in the team already, everyone would be all over kicking him like they are with Jimmer.

He's made it. The fact that he's done is irrelevant. They need a sixth big and could use a true stretch four, plus he knows the system, is well liked and won't complain about his role.

With this much turnover and considering those factors, they're not cutting him loose just to bring in some other scrub that would vacillate between being stapled to the bench and shuttled to the D-League.

I don't know why so many care so much anyway. The issue the past few years, has been that in match-ups where they couldn't get away with playing two centers together and needed to spread the floor, he had to become a rotation player. That's no longer the case.

Fourteen are set and the fifteenth (really thirteenth/fourteenth, since Simmons figures to spend a good amount of time in the D-League) was always going to come down to Fredette and Butler, with the latter likely having the inside track.

[Spurtacular]

Kawhi - Looks primed and comfortable offensively. Still need to be a little bit more aggressive. Scored 7 of his points from his steals 16 in 20 minutes could be misleading... Defense was not all time great material, but he's kawhi. A-

Jimmer - Looked like the retarded kid in pick up ball that we're all forced to pick sometimes because we don't want to be mean F



1:08:35 - Who took three points off the board for the Spurs; Mr. A- or Mr. F?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFiggX2Rp30

[SAGirl]

He's made it. The fact that he's done is irrelevant. They need a sixth big and could use a true stretch four, plus he knows the system, is well liked and won't complain about his role.

With this much turnover and considering those factors, they're not cutting him loose just to bring in some other scrub that would vacillate between being stapled to the bench and shuttled to the D-League.

I don't know why so many care so much anyway. The issue the past few years, has been that in match-ups where they couldn't get away with playing two centers together and needed to spread the floor, he had to become a rotation player. That's no longer the case.

Fourteen are set and the fifteenth (really thirteenth/fourteenth, since Simmons figures to spend a good amount of time in the D-League) was always going to come down to Fredette and Butler, with the latter likely having the inside track.


I agree with you now. I used to think Fredette would add something more than Bonner, on account of being younger, perhaps able to get hot on occasion and with our two playmaking guards being old and Tony having crumbled to injuries last year, I thought guard depth was a bigger need than a 6th big that is done as a player. The fact is I really don't think Jimmer adds anything TBH. Like others pointed out he can't get his shot off, with being so short and a slow trigger, is very bad on perimeter defense, closing out shooters is horrendous and just overall he tries, but doesn't have tools to help. Compared to that, I am guessing Bonner is in. I don't see him getting cut, but he's looking very done and may get waived or retire, or traded or something, if someone else appears on the radar later in the season. I really liked Butler as an end of the bench man. He's got more game than Bonner and is also a vet that is probably going to be fine with a diminished role.

[Chinook]

He's made it. The fact that he's done is irrelevant. They need a sixth big and could use a true stretch four, plus he knows the system, is well liked and won't complain about his role.

If Bonner were a lock, his contract would be fully guaranteed. The fact that it isn't is because there is a chance he'll be cut either in camp or later in the season. That is looks done is critical, as a stretch-four who can no longer shoot eventually stops stretching the floor. And Bonner's relative usefulness has been trending down for the last couple years. It's not longer rare to find a stretch-big. They're coming out of school every year, and most are going undrafted or at least in the middle of the draft (20-50 range). Look at where Cady's trending. When Bonner was an elite shooter, he was a cut above the average stretch-four. But now, he's hanging on by reputation.

Plus, I can't think of a time where the Spurs are going to be facing a lineup with two legit bigs and pass over three of Duncan, LMA, Diaw and West to put in Bonner. Aldridge and Diaw can both shoot threes, and West has had success making guys pay for sagging off him. I don't anticipate a time where the Spurs wouldn't just play small-ball if it was too hard to play Diaw or Anderson.

I think Bonner was a near-lock when he inked his deal. It was going to take a certain scenario for the team to cut him. That scenario is what's happening now (Matt looking done and there being a number of options to play the third PF role that aren't him). I still agree he hangs on, but if this trend continues, I wouldn't be surprised to see him get waived in a couple of weeks.

[playbonner15]

Bonner's not going anywhere. Last spot might be given to Butler though. Personally, I would like Bonner to jpin the FO and give his spot to Jimmer/Butler but dude's gonna stay :lol

[DeRozan m8]

Bonner is a kunt

[TD 21]

If Bonner were a lock, his contract would be fully guaranteed. The fact that it isn't is because there is a chance he'll be cut either in camp or later in the season. That is looks done is critical, as a stretch-four who can no longer shoot eventually stops stretching the floor. And Bonner's relative usefulness has been trending down for the last couple years. It's not longer rare to find a stretch-big. They're coming out of school every year, and most are going undrafted or at least in the middle of the draft (20-50 range). Look at where Cady's trending. When Bonner was an elite shooter, he was a cut above the average stretch-four. But now, he's hanging on by reputation.

Plus, I can't think of a time where the Spurs are going to be facing a lineup with two legit bigs and pass over three of Duncan, LMA, Diaw and West to put in Bonner. Aldridge and Diaw can both shoot threes, and West has had success making guys pay for sagging off him. I don't anticipate a time where the Spurs wouldn't just play small-ball if it was too hard to play Diaw or Anderson.

I think Bonner was a near-lock when he inked his deal. It was going to take a certain scenario for the team to cut him. That scenario is what's happening now (Matt looking done and there being a number of options to play the third PF role that aren't him). I still agree he hangs on, but if this trend continues, I wouldn't be surprised to see him get waived in a couple of weeks.

I knew someone would say that, but I suspect the primary reason it wasn't full guaranteed, was in case they need a roster spot for a D-League prospect they're high on. Of course, they could do the same with Butler's spot, but why not maximize flexibility?

The fact that he looks done is irrelevant given the current roster and you're agreeing with me without knowing it. Sure, it won't help matters if opposing coaches figure this out, but to this point, they haven't. Even if they do, it would probably take three simultaneous injuries to the five bigs ahead of him for this to matter.

I disagree. True stretch four's are still a rare breed. Tons of teams have SF's or combo forwards masquerading as such, but those types, almost without exception aren't match-up proof.

[Chinook]

I knew someone would say that, but I suspect the primary reason it wasn't full guaranteed, was in case they need a roster spot for a D-League prospect they're high on. Of course, they could do the same with Butler's spot, but why not maximize flexibility?

The fact that he looks done is irrelevant given the current roster and you're agreeing with me without knowing it. Sure, it won't help matters if opposing coaches figure this out, but to this point, they haven't. Even if they do, it would probably take three simultaneous injuries to the five bigs ahead of him for this to matter.

I disagree. True stretch four's are still a rare breed. Tons of teams have SF's or combo forwards masquerading as such, but those types, almost without exception aren't match-up proof.

Bonner is far from match-up proof. The fact that Butler is playing exclusively the four so far is telling. And the point still remains that the Spurs have four good front-court players and aren't likely to sit three for Bonner.

[ElNono]

Matty isn't going anywhere. He'll be with us for the whole season.

[TD 21]

Bonner is far from match-up proof. The fact that Butler is playing exclusively the four so far is telling. And the point still remains that the Spurs have four good front-court players and aren't likely to sit three for Bonner.

He is, in the sense that he can physically guard a guy like Randolph, whereas a guy like Dudley can't.

Butler has played some with Anderson, who'd clearly be considered the four in that scenario and some of the time he's played four, it's been against another three.

That's the point. The fact that they no longer need Bonner is what makes his spot irrelevant and why he more than likely has it sewn up. Everyone can't play. No matter who holds his spot will be in the same boat, only they won't have all the intangibles he has going for him. Politics often trump merit in professional sports.

[Chinook]

Butler has played some with Anderson, who'd clearly be considered the four in that scenario and some of the time he's played four, it's been against another three.

He hasn't. You can trying calling Anderson the four all you want, but Kyle has been guarding wings, and Butler has been guarding bigs. Kyle's been penetrating and Rasual has been screening and popping. Butler's been the four, height be damned.

[YGWHI]

His answer to the question if a younger and more versatile player can take Bonner spot was a clear and unequivocal no. "Matty isn't going anywhere. He'll be with us for the whole season" said Pop after the game in Atlanta.

[TD 21]

He hasn't. You can trying calling Anderson the four all you want, but Kyle has been guarding wings, and Butler has been guarding bigs. Kyle's been penetrating and Rasual has been screening and popping. Butler's been the four, height be damned.

Yeah, because Anderson will have to guard wings on this team, so they might as well let him get accustomed to it. I wouldn't read into it though.

If you think Butler can credibly play stretch four, you're delusional and if you think every decision is based on merit, you're naive.

[ElNono]

IMO, there's no way Kyle plays the four... he was guarding SGs the other night...

I think what Pop was looking with Butler is to see if he can find a center off the scrap pile that can guard bigs better than Bonner (which shouldn't be a high bar at all), but surprisingly, I don't think Butler has managed so far.

[Chinook]

Yeah, because Anderson will have to guard wings on this team, so they might as well let him get accustomed to it. I wouldn't read into it though.

If you think Butler can credibly play stretch four, you're delusional and if you think every decision is based on merit, you're naive.

The point is the Anderson played the three. Whether he's a four by your natural scale is relevant. Anderson has been a wing all preseason while guys like Thomas and Butler have played power-forward next to him. I want to say Butler hasn't played the three even when he wasn't with Anderson. He started at the four in the second half next Kawhi.

So you can go on calling me delusional or naive. But there's no evidence the Spurs consider him a wing now. I'm not sure he can play the four, but it looks like that's his path to the roster.

[Chinook]

IMO, there's no way Kyle plays the four... he was guarding SGs the other night...

I think what Pop was looking with Butler is to see if he can find a center off the scrap pile that can guard bigs better than Bonner (which shouldn't be a high bar at all), but surprisingly, I don't think Butler has managed so far.

Well, Matt is/was an underrated defender. The reason why he worked as a stretch-four is because he was actually able to check his man respectably. Butler's post defense was awful last night. Millsap's a very good player, but he should not be able to physically overwhelm you on the block.

The only hope is if Butler's fouls come from his enthusiasm. He might be initiating too much contact in an effort to show he can play the four. Maybe he'll calm down a bit and be serviceable.

[TD 21]

The point is the Anderson played the three. Whether he's a four by your natural scale is relevant. Anderson has been a wing all preseason while guys like Thomas and Butler have played power-forward next to him. I want to say Butler hasn't played the three even when he wasn't with Anderson. He started at the four in the second half next Kawhi.

So you can go on calling me delusional or naive. But there's no evidence the Spurs consider him a wing now. I'm not sure he can play the four, but it looks like that's his path to the roster.

No, the point is, it's preseason and much of what we see, particularly early, is irrelevant. Even if Butler could get by playing the four, that's not where the need is on this team.

I didn't call you either and I don't need evidence, when common sense is all that's required. Aldridge essentially played center in a game, has missed a game and played limited minutes in the other two; West has played limited minutes; Diaw hasn't played at all; Bonner has played spot minutes. Of course, that left plenty of power forward minutes available to fill and with no other power forwards in camp, that meant small forwards would have to masquerade as power forwards. End of story.

[ElNono]

Well, Matt is/was an underrated defender. The reason why he worked as a stretch-four is because he was actually able to check his man respectably. Butler's post defense was awful last night. Millsap's a very good player, but he should not be able to physically overwhelm you on the block.

The only hope is if Butler's fouls come from his enthusiasm. He might be initiating too much contact in an effort to show he can play the four. Maybe he'll calm down a bit and be serviceable.

Nah, he's not underrated. The bar is just set extremely low for him. Anything that a big defender needs to do, he does poorly: physicality, rebounding, box out, etc. It's just that the league has gone away from bangers, so Matt's poor defense can be hidden if you play him next to a good rebounder (ie: Tim), and you definitely don't want to play him in the playoffs if the other team has a solid postup option.

I expect Boris and Tim to be rested quite a bit, so you're left with LMA and West to bang if needed. And LMA really isn't an option if Tim is not playing, as he will have to carry the load offensively. I think that's what they want Butler's role to be, a guy they can put out there to bang with bigs when we're shorthanded.

[Russ]

Bonner's not going anywhere. Last spot might be given to Butler though. Personally, I would like Bonner to jpin the FO and give his spot to Jimmer/Butler but dude's gonna stay :lol

How bout Asst. Coach?

That way he's with the team every day, every practice, sees every game, travels with the team, etc.

If they think they need him later in the season, he's right there.

In the meantime, they create an extra roster spot for Butler (or whomever).

[tholdren]

I would sign 2 new guys. Make Bonner a coach/suit of some sort. Let Bonner Practice. Re-sign if someone gets hurt. There is no use for Bonner. He's a regular season eat-up-some-minutes guy who can't do anything in the playoffs. Use the spot to develop someone, unless the coaching staff sucks that bad no one can be taught to be as good as Bonner.