The New Starting 5

[look_at_g_shred]

Thought that this deserved its own thread. What does replacing Duncan with Gasol do for our offense? I think the biggest beneficiary to the change would be Green. I could see him getting better looks with our front court being so deadly now. So what are your thoughts ? Pro's and Con's of the new look starting 5.

[noles1983]

con - parker sucks balls

[SouthernFried]

Pro's - Experience and inside scoring.
Con - Defense and outside scoring.

Roadblock to success - Parker

[RD2191]

Tbh Parker is by far our weakest link in the starting 5. Best we can hope for is for Murray to have a roty season and take over the starting spot.

[ElNono]

Danny Green has to have a substantially better season than last season. I think he's aware of it, and for these Spurs, we just can't afford to have two deadweights for a back court.

[TheGoldStandard]

Tbh Parker is by far our weakest link in the starting 5. Best we can hope for is for Murray to have a roty season and take over the starting spot.

Will never happen with Pop at the helm.. that fucker will play everyone but murray.. Lots of Mills, Anderson, Manu(if he's back) that kinda shit.

[TheGoldStandard]

Gasol - He'll average like 15/10 and provide some nice passes, decent defense and be useful.
Aldridge - 18/8 will look at lot better early on in the system, Gasol will help him a lot since he doesn't have to shift to center.
Kawhi - Hopefully he goes god mode this next season and gets into Prime years talk 25/8 and still be a monster on defense
Green - Fucker just needs to hit shots consistently, don't expect him to learn how to dribble or how to lay the ball up. Might have a regressed year defensively. Avg 13 a game.
Parker - Ugh... defensive liability.. will get burned a lot.. 4/12 shooting will be a good night. 6 to 7 assist games will be the one upside. If only they counted rebounding bricks as assists would get average double figures.

[Kikoluna]

Parker will be our doom. And kyle

[DPG21920]

How I think of it: Gasol & Tim were literally the same type of player all the way down to their inability to guard the perimeter.

However, Pau is so much better on offense at all the things Tim had to do in SAs offense. When guys sagged off of Tim on PnR or kick outs, Gasol can shoot. Dump it to Tim on the block and he struggled? Pau won't.

Pau won't help perimeter defense but neither did Tim.

[look_at_g_shred]

I too believe Parker is our weakest link. The sad part is there's nothing we can do about it. Would prefer to have Manu in place of Parker to close games.

[Seventyniner]

Parker should do better in this lineup than the one with Tim. Gasol provides much better spacing.

[RD2191]

Still, Parker can't play against GS. Manu or Kyle might have to start imo.

[TheGoldStandard]

I too believe Parker is our weakest link. The sad part is there's nothing we can do about it. Would prefer to have Manu in place of Parker to close games.

I'm with you but even Manu is a shell of who he used to be.. Murray can't be rushed either or it's bust city.. Tough times ahead.

[baseline bum]

I think Gasol is going to get in Aldridge's way the same way Duncan did when he had that hot start to the season. I would have much rather have gotten a point guard.

[TheGoldStandard]

Still, Parker can't play against GS. Manu or Kyle might have to start imo.

It'll take the first 4 minutes and a 18 point run for Pop to call a time out and then he won't bitch out Parker he'll bitch out Green because you know Green has to cover Parker and Greens assignment.

[ElNono]

Hopefully we play the Dubs all 4 times in November, tbh...

[spurs10]

Danny Green has to have a substantially better season than last season. I think he's aware of it, and for these Spurs, we just can't afford to have two deadweights for a back court. Yes- our front court is pretty badass.


How I think of it: Gasol & Tim were literally the same type of player all the way down to their inability to guard the perimeter.

However, Pau is so much better on offense at all the things Tim had to do in SAs offense. When guys sagged off of Tim on PnR or kick outs, Gasol can shoot. Dump it to Tim on the block and he struggled? Pau won't.

Pau won't help perimeter defense but neither did Tim. :tu

[RD2191]

It'll take the first 4 minutes and a 18 point run for Pop to call a time out and then he won't bitch out Parker he'll bitch out Green because you know Green has to cover Parker and Greens assignment.

:lol

[RD2191]

Hopefully we play the Dubs all 4 times in November, tbh...

:lol

[TheGoldStandard]

Hopefully we play the Dubs all 4 times in November, tbh...

It'll be during that 1st game that Parker "tweaks" an ankle..

[look_at_g_shred]

It'll be during that 1st game that Parker "tweaks" an ankle..
:pop: A variety of Maledies

[TheGoldStandard]

:pop: A variety of Maledies

A chapped ass from getting screwed so much on defense. GS will just call out Parker.. that'll be the play.. whoever Parker is on give the ball to him and clear out

[Nathan89]

I think Gasol is going to get in Aldridge's way the same way Duncan did when he had that hot start to the season. I would have much rather have gotten a point guard.

There weren't any pgs on the market. The team needs a star pg to balance the inability to dribble of Green and LMA. We need Westbrook or Chris Paul not just a top 15 pg.

[SAGirl]

Tbh Parker is by far our weakest link in the starting 5. Best we can hope for is for Murray to have a roty season and take over the starting spot.
:toast to Murray. Too bad he's not playing this SL game tonight TBH.

[coachmac87]

Offense: Gasol is one of the best low post scorers in the game. Can shoot over both shoulders and his footwork is really good. He has an almost automatic top of the key jumper and sometimes has range for an occasional 3ball. Suprisingly when I looked at his film..he can actually put the ball on the floor pretty well. Great passer and really soft touch due to his extreme length.

Defense: He has his moments. He sometimes lacks focus and effort. He is slow footed but not as bad as most think and his length is always a plus on contesting. Averaged 2 blocks a game and is still an elite rebounder. He's best around the basket and could be a problem in PNR but he is better than Duncan in that regard. Again his length is a plus. I will say this he does make the Spurs rebounding a strength..something we haven't said in awhile

[look_at_g_shred]

Not to mention, Gasol knows how to draw fouls and make them too!

[myhc]

Offense: Gasol is one of the best low post scorers in the game. Can shoot over both shoulders and his footwork is really good. He has an almost automatic top of the key jumper and sometimes has range for an occasional 3ball. Suprisingly when I looked at his film..he can actually put the ball on the floor pretty well. Great passer and really soft touch due to his extreme length.

Defense: He has his moments. He sometimes lacks focus and effort. He is slow footed but not as bad as most think and his length is always a plus on contesting. Averaged 2 blocks a game and is still an elite rebounder. He's best around the basket and could be a problem in PNR but he is better than Duncan in that regard. Again his length is a plus. I will say this he does make the Spurs rebounding a strength..something we haven't said in awhile

Nice breakdown. Thanks.

[LongtimeSpursFan]

Tbh Parker is by far our weakest link in the starting 5. Best we can hope for is for Murray to have a roty season and take over the starting spot.

LOL. Ignoring our 3 and D guy that can hit a 3 or dribble. Or the 4th best two-way player in the NBA that can't dribble in traffic or finish at the rim.

[RD2191]

LOL. Ignoring our 3 and D guy that can hit a 3 or dribble. Or the 4th best two-way player in the NBA.
Are you mentally challenged? Serious question.

[look_at_g_shred]

Are you mentally challenged? Serious question.
The hell is that scrub talking about tho?

[RD2191]

The hell is that scrub talking about tho?

I have no effing clue.

[SpursFan86]

I think our SL will be better next year, especially if Green has a bounce back year and can shoot ~40% from deep.

The bench is a concern though...going to take some magic from the FO to allow us to have one of the best benches in the league like we've had for the past few years.

[look_at_g_shred]

I think our SL will be better next year, especially if Green has a bounce back year and can shoot ~40% from deep.

The bench is a concern though...going to take some magic from the FO to allow us to have one of the best benches in the league like we've had for the past few years.
Not last year.

[LongtimeSpursFan]

Still, Parker can't play against GS. Manu or Kyle might have to start imo.

Stick to posting of fan forums because you ain't no coach.

[RD2191]

What if Parker moved to the bench? While Kyle is slow as shit we only need him to bring the ball up and play okay defense. He can't be worse than Parker on either side of the ball imo. Plus Parker might get some swag back by beating up on bench players. Just a thought. Don't shoot me. :lol

[RD2191]

Stick to posting of fan forums because you ain't no coach.

I think you might be having a stroke. Go to your local ER ASAP.

[dabom]

What if Parker moved to the bench? While Kyle is slow as shit we only need him to bring the ball up and play okay defense. He can't be worse than Parker on either side of the ball imo. Plus Parker might get some swag back by beating up on bench players. Just a thought. Don't shoot me. :lol

You just said start fathead dude... :lol

[look_at_g_shred]

What if Parker moved to the bench? While Kyle is slow as shit we only need him to bring the ball up and play okay defense. He can't be worse than Parker on either side of the ball imo. Plus Parker might get some swag back by beating up on bench players. Just a thought. Don't shoot me. :lol
You ain't no coach!!

[RD2191]

You just said start fathead dude... :lol

Bro, we have to do something about the PG position. I mean it would be downright suicidal to start Parker against GS.

[RD2191]

You ain't no coach!!

:lol

[SouthernFried]

What if Parker moved to the bench? While Kyle is slow as shit we only need him to bring the ball up and play okay defense. He can't be worse than Parker on either side of the ball imo. Plus Parker might get some swag back by beating up on bench players. Just a thought. Don't shoot me. :lol

I said this early in the season. Parker coming off the bench would be awesome...if he'd cope the right attitude to do it. With Parker, it's all about being slighted...and his response. Sigh. lol

[cutewizard]

the other pieces would be crucial......

i wonder who the FO signs up to complement the best frontline in the NBA now

[spurraider21]

Gasol's scoring and ability to draw doubles >>>>> duncans last year. He's probably a better passer out of the post, Duncan arguably the better high-low passer though

Still holding out hope that timmeh returns

[RD2191]

I said this early in the season. Parker coming off the bench would be awesome...if he'd cope the right attitude to do it. With Parker, it's all about being slighted...and his response. Sigh. lol

Yeah, at the very least Kyle brings size. It's a tough call tbh. Hopefully Pop will work something out.

[RD2191]

Gasol's scoring and ability to draw doubles >>>>> duncans last year. He's probably a better passer out of the post, Duncan arguably the better high-low passer though

Still holding out hope that timmeh returns

If timmy calls it quits it's because he knows he's done. Have to respect that.

[Leetonidas]

Parker should be practicing nothing but 3s this off-season imo. it's the only way he can remain a threat in the SL

[UNT Eagles 2016]

Hopefully we play the Dubs all 4 times in November, tbh...

We only play them 3 times next year, including only once at Oracle.

[DPG21920]

I too believe Parker is our weakest link. The sad part is there's nothing we can do about it. Would prefer to have Manu in place of Parker to close games.

Well, the good news is Parker was in the SL last year and SA STILL had one of the best defenses in 20 years. Tim was horrible on the perimeter and SA STILL had one of the best defenses in 20 years.

As long as Pau can offer around the same rim protection as Tim did (which I think is 80%+ possible), the SL defense should be almost as good while the offense should be much better. Pau is a much better all around player than Tim is at this point in their career.

The bench is an issue, there is no way around that now, but you have to get your SL right before all else and SA did that with Gasol.

Now let's see if they can work some magic on the bench and hope that Mills bounces back, Kyle improves, Simmons improves and Bertans can step up and maybe we get a surprise from Murray. There is upside there, but way more questions than answers.

Let's see what SA does with Boris and who else they sign.

[tmtcsc]

Murray has a looooooooong way to go before he contributes anything to this team.

[gospursgojas]

Lol Fathead at point.
Lol corpse of Manu at point.
Lol rookie who can't shoot at point.

We're screwed at this position and we'll see it all season long.

[gilmor]

You guys are so seriously blaming on Parker. I think even if you replace Parker with CP3, we still stand no chance against GSW.

One or two of Curry, Durant or Thompson will have killed any line-up we put up.

GSW is a mega super team next season. No team will stand a chance if they gel.

[Beaverfuzz]

Kiwi, LMA, Pau, Green, Porker. For now.

[Beaverfuzz]

You guys are so seriously blaming on Parker. I think even if you replace Parker with CP3, we still stand no chance against GSW.

One or two of Curry, Durant or Thompson will have killed any line-up we put up.

GSW is a mega super team next season. No team will stand a chance if they gel.


He's literally the weakest link. If you need someone to score 16+ points, would you take CP3 or Parker?

[Marcus Bryant]

Danny Green has to have a substantially better season than last season. I think he's aware of it, and for these Spurs, we just can't afford to have two deadweights for a back court.

Absolutely. Spurs needed that 3rd wheel and he just didn't show last season. Was somewhat surprised he came back for that money last summer, now am glad. Improvement from him next season would be a great acquisition.

[Chinook]

Parker will have to be better for sure. I wonder what it would take to get Patrick Beverly from Houston.

[TheGoldStandard]

He's literally the weakest link. If you need someone to score 16+ points, would you take CP3 or Parker?

Paul can actually hit his jumper consistently

[ace3g]

In terms of Green, lets hope that Lasik eye surgey makes a difference.

[Chinook]

Pop needs to run plays for Green to keep him in rhythm. The passes he gets from post just aren't stable enough. Parker spotting up too would be nice, as I don't think he's going to be much better driving or running the PnR.

[GSH]

Offense: Gasol is one of the best low post scorers in the game. Can shoot over both shoulders and his footwork is really good. He has an almost automatic top of the key jumper and sometimes has range for an occasional 3ball. Suprisingly when I looked at his film..he can actually put the ball on the floor pretty well. Great passer and really soft touch due to his extreme length.

Defense: He has his moments. He sometimes lacks focus and effort. He is slow footed but not as bad as most think and his length is always a plus on contesting. Averaged 2 blocks a game and is still an elite rebounder. He's best around the basket and could be a problem in PNR but he is better than Duncan in that regard. Again his length is a plus. I will say this he does make the Spurs rebounding a strength..something we haven't said in awhile


Over the course of the whole season, Golden State was not a great half-court team. They were good, but not great. Their real hammer came in the first 8-9 seconds of the shot clock. That was where their shooting percentages got jacked up so high, and it was where their biggest advantage could be seen. Part of the way to deal with that is obviously to play good transition defense. But my observation was that they fed off of other teams' bad shots. If Pau can still be a consistent low-post scorer, it's a HUGE plus when playing the Dubs.

I don't care how good a shooter is from distance, they still make a lower percentage of their attempts than good shooters in the paint. A 40% 3-point shooter is considered good, and they score 1.2 points per attempt over time. But that means that 60% of their attempts potentially provide opportunities for GS to jam it back down the court. A guy making 60% from close range still only scores 1.2 points per attempt. But only 40% of his attempts have a chance of leading to a fast break.

The point being that Pau's offensive game (which Tim was totally lacking at the end of the season) will lead to more points for the Spurs. But against teams like Golden State, it will lead to better defense for the Spurs, because they will have the opportunity to get back into their defense instead of constantly playing transition D.

[Dro210]

I said this early in the season. Parker coming off the bench would be awesome...if he'd cope the right attitude to do it. With Parker, it's all about being slighted...and his response. Sigh. lol

Yep, I remember... I was sayin it too. I wanted to see it against gs mainly, but that never even happened... Still think it's worth trying. :tu

[Kawhitstorm]

Parker will have to be better for sure. I wonder what it would take to get Patrick Beverly from Houston.

Now they got Eric Gordon, Beverly is most likely off the trading block.

[Kawhitstorm]

I think Gasol is going to get in Aldridge's way the same way Duncan did when he had that hot start to the season. I would have much rather have gotten a point guard.

Against centers, Pau shoots jumper like D-Worst who didn't get in LMA's way when Tim was out.:wakeup

Pop can have Pau posting up when LMA is out of the game now that Diaw is on his way out.

[offset formation]

Parker will be our doom. And kyle

Lol. Cat scored 28 tonight on bettee than 50% shooting and was clearly the best player on the floor for either team. You Kyle haters crack my ass up.

[baseline bum]

Lol. Cat scored 28 tonight on bettee than 50% shooting and was clearly the best player on the floor for either team. You Kyle haters crack my ass up.

Kyle can take us to the summer league repeat

[Emperor]

Lol. Cat scored 28 tonight on bettee than 50% shooting and was clearly the best player on the floor for either team. You Kyle haters crack my ass up.

It's the SUMMER LEAGUE for crying out loud.

[DAF86]

It's hard to get excited about the team untill Parker either has a resurgency or gets the fuck out. He's just such a major deadweight right now.

[Obstructed_View]

It's hard to get excited about the team untill Parker either has a resurgency or gets the fuck out. He's just such a major deadweight right now.

It's just funny how ST is sometimes such an ignorant echo chamber that one opinion snowballs until there's someone saying stupid shit like the above.

[SequSpur]

I agree with DAF86 actually. Watch a game and quit sucking st.com dick...

[DAF86]

It's just funny how ST is sometimes such an ignorant echo chamber that one opinion snowballs until there's someone saying stupid shit like the above.

"Respect the big three", "The big three can do whatever they want" :cry:cry:cry

Look, I'm grateful for all of what those guys did. But they aren't what they used to be. With Duncan and Ginobili there's no problem 'cause Tim is probably going to retire, and Manu is going to play for the vet minimum. I would have no problem with Parker either if he wasn't making all-star money while giving below average production for an NBA player. That's cap space that could be used on a young star that would really help us improve, or at the very least have better depth.

I love Tony but his contract is a huge handicap, anyone that thinks differently just doesn't want to see reality.

[Snaq O'Meal]

Lol. Cat scored 28 tonight on bettee than 50% shooting and was clearly the best player on the floor for either team. You Kyle haters crack my ass up.

He did put up better numbers than Ben Simmons FWIW.

[offset formation]

It's the SUMMER LEAGUE for crying out loud.

And he just finished his second year for crying out loud. With very little playing time his first year. Dude is 22-23. Not 28-29.

He's only going to get better. He was one of our best players off the bench already last year in certain games.

Let him develop a bit. Get off his ass. Profit.

[ElNono]

It's hard to get excited about the team untill Parker either has a resurgency or gets the fuck out. He's just such a major deadweight right now.

He just didn't age well, which somewhat makes sense, as he has a lot of mileage. More than "resurgence", I just hope he finds his niche, like Tim and Manu did once it was clear they were not the dominant talent they once were, and embrace that "role player" role, which is still important. I've said it before, the Spurs didn't need to trade him, but perhaps acquire a younger (not rookie, but somewhat seasoned) PG and move TP to the bench. Not a matter of disrespect or anything, just to have a more balanced team, where you have LMA/Kawhi really dominating and where Tony has more legroom to be more effective.

Unfortunately, Patty is just a streaky shooter, I don't know it would work out like that. I was thinking more of a game-manager type of PG (Conley obviously fits that bill, but he would've been way expensive).

[DAF86]

He just didn't age well, which somewhat makes sense, as he has a lot of mileage. More than "resurgence", I just hope he finds his niche, like Tim and Manu did once it was clear they were not the dominant talent they once were, and embrace that "role player" role, which is still important. I've said it before, the Spurs didn't need to trade him, but perhaps acquire a younger (not rookie, but somewhat seasoned) PG and move TP to the bench. Not a matter of disrespect or anything, just to have a more balanced team, where you have LMA/Kawhi really dominating and where Tony has more legroom to be more effective.

Unfortunately, Patty is just a streaky shooter, I don't know it would work out like that. I was thinking more of a game-manager type of PG (Conley obviously fits that bill, but he would've been way expensive).

The problem is that we need another big time scorer, not another role player. That's why that waste of cap space hurts us so much.

[Snaq O'Meal]

He just didn't age well, which somewhat makes sense, as he has a lot of mileage. More than "resurgence", I just hope he finds his niche, like Tim and Manu did once it was clear they were not the dominant talent they once were, and embrace that "role player" role, which is still important. I've said it before, the Spurs didn't need to trade him, but perhaps acquire a younger (not rookie, but somewhat seasoned) PG and move TP to the bench. Not a matter of disrespect or anything, just to have a more balanced team, where you have LMA/Kawhi really dominating and where Tony has more legroom to be more effective.

Unfortunately, Patty is just a streaky shooter, I don't know it would work out like that. I was thinking more of a game-manager type of PG (Conley obviously fits that bill, but he would've been way expensive).

That type of point guard is now a rarity. They're either unavailable (i.e. Chris Paul) or too old (i.e. Andre Miller).

[Obstructed_View]

I agree with DAF86 actually. Watch a game and quit sucking st.com dick...

And the idiot echo chamber is visited by the head idiot.

[DAF86]

And the idiot echo chamber is visited by the head idiot.

Did you even analyze what I responded or are you just going to go the emo route?

[ElNono]

That type of point guard is now a rarity. They're either unavailable (i.e. Chris Paul) or too old (i.e. Andre Miller).

I wasn't a big fan of George Hill, but when he plays point today, he plays kinda like that. I know a lot of people here would prefer a penetrating guard, but I don't think it would work well with LMA/Kawhi's forte, which are the postups. And in order for the postups to work, you need shooters. On the other hand, that kind of offense gets predictable fast too. I hope to see more variety this season on that end, perhaps some P&R for Gasol, Kawhi off-screen jumpers, etc.

[spurtech09]

Spurs definitely need a back up pg....

[Obstructed_View]

Did you even analyze what I responded or are you just going to go the emo route?

Well, you followed up your hyperbole-laced post with an assertion that 15 million a year is "all-star money" (Parker 40th highest salary last year) and that Tony Parker is a "below average player" (16.2 PER last year). Then you later said that the Spurs need a "big time scorer" rather than people to play defense and distribute the ball. Frankly, when you say something that isn't either completely provably incorrect or outright retarded then I might be ready to analyze it.

If your agenda is just to bag on Tony Parker, start with something true, like that he's been a huge disappointment in the playoffs the last three years, and you might get some agreement. I'm fully on board the, "Parker needs to transform to a pass-first guard" train. Plenty of room.

[Beaverfuzz]

Paul can actually hit his jumper consistently


Exactly. Not the flail out of control into the paint, fall down, whine about no call, and give up two on the other end.

[Beaverfuzz]

Spurs definitely need a pg....


Fixed it for you.

[ceperez]

Spurs guaranteed to win 2nd seed in the western conference.

Spurs were just unfortunate with OKC, but now with OKC without Durant, Spurs will have a crack at the newly improved GSW.

Which means, if GSW has one injured player among their 4, Spurs reach the finals!

[SASdynasty!]

Gasol - He'll average like 15/10 and provide some nice passes, decent defense and be useful.
Aldridge - 18/8 will look at lot better early on in the system, Gasol will help him a lot since he doesn't have to shift to center.
Kawhi - Hopefully he goes god mode this next season and gets into Prime years talk 25/8 and still be a monster on defense
Green - Fucker just needs to hit shots consistently, don't expect him to learn how to dribble or how to lay the ball up. Might have a regressed year defensively. Avg 13 a game.
Parker - Ugh... defensive liability.. will get burned a lot.. 4/12 shooting will be a good night. 6 to 7 assist games will be the one upside. If only they counted rebounding bricks as assists would get average double figures.
Wow, 4/12 will be a good night even though Parker hasn't shot less than 48% from the field the last 12 years. Maybe math isn't you guys' strong suit? Not sure.

[BillMc]

Spurs guaranteed to win 2nd seed in the western conference.

Spurs were just unfortunate with OKC, but now with OKC without Durant, Spurs will have a crack at the newly improved GSW.

Which means, if GSW has one injured player among their 4, Spurs reach the finals!

This is my thinking. I would be surprised if we don't reach the Finals at least once in the next 3 years and (probably get a ring when we do). Though there will be some lumps in years we don't.

People criticizing the Pau signing should realize how much we'd fall if we didn't get him AND Duncan retired. Sometimes a good offseason is minimizing your losses. Ask OKC.

[Spurtacular]

Mills needs to start a significant percentage of games. We need to at least start a realistic transition to the fact that Parker is a role player. Dude's f'ing jacking up all those shots in the final two minutes of Game 5 vs OKC? WTF.

[Spurtacular]

This is my thinking. I would be surprised if we don't reach the Finals at least once in the next 3 years and (probably get a ring when we do). Though there will be some lumps in years we don't.

People criticizing the Pau signing should realize how much we'd fall if we didn't get him AND Duncan retired. Sometimes a good offseason is minimizing your losses. Ask OKC.

It really depends on how reliable KL and Aldridge can become among other factors. We know they can carry the load for a game. It remains to be seen that they can do it for a series against an elite squad.

[TheMulletMan3000]

Mills needs to start a significant percentage of games. We need to at least start a realistic transition to the fact that Parker is a role player. Dude's f'ing jacking up all those shots in the final two minutes of Game 5 vs OKC? WTF.

If Mills starts instead of Parker, who plays the PG?

[Chinook]

Kyle can take us to the summer league repeat

I mean, I legitimately want that to happen more than almost anything else Spurs related.

[TheGoldStandard]

It's not even about the money anymore it's about fit within what the Spurs have to do to make Kawhi the guy.. I'd much prefer Parker off the team for the teams sake rather than Parker going to the bench.. It's not Parker's fault but Pop will not want to suffer through growing pains of a rookie PG or even another PG coming in and having to learn what they do.. Ultimately Parker will be back in the lineup that features Kawhi and no matter what he does to transition into a better 3 point shooter and consistent jump shot maker he's still going to be a negative on the defensive end.

[cd021]

Still, Parker can't play against GS. Manu or Kyle might have to start imo.

Not start but play heavy minutes at guard Anderson could be a big factor is a series, he needs to become a decent shooter from 3, so does Simmons in order to make them viable against the Worriers

[Mugen]

The SL looks solid but it's tough to see how good they'll be with a 300lb anchor starting at PG tbh.

[SASdynasty!]

It's not even about the money anymore it's about fit within what the Spurs have to do to make Kawhi the guy.. I'd much prefer Parker off the team for the teams sake rather than Parker going to the bench.. It's not Parker's fault but Pop will not want to suffer through growing pains of a rookie PG or even another PG coming in and having to learn what they do.. Ultimately Parker will be back in the lineup that features Kawhi and no matter what he does to transition into a better 3 point shooter and consistent jump shot maker he's still going to be a negative on the defensive end.
I literally disagree with your entire post.

-Parker isn't the reason Kawhi disappears at the end of games and in the playoffs. He gives him the ball far more than anyone else on the team.

-We have time to draft a rookie true PG and work him in behind Parker. Why PATFO hasn't done that in the last few years probably tells you they believe Parker still has a couple more good years in him...unlike the ST cliffjumpers who said Parker was done in 2014 right after he led us to another title as the only All-Star, All-NBA player and leading scorer throughout the RS, playoffs, and Finals (and led in assists throughout the RS & playoffs like always).

-Better 3 point shooter? He shot 42% last year and 43% the year before (leading the entire league for the first half of the season). What do you want? Him to shoot 60% from 3?

...oh and funny how it's not about the money anymore. Is that because Mike Conley just got paid more than twice of what Parker will ever make, proving the fact that Parker has always been (and now especially is) a frieking bargain!

[SpurSwag]

Pros - Pau can shoot well out to about 17 feet which should provide some extra spacing, he's a decent rebounder (though not as good as the numbers suggest) and a decent interior defender. Great passing too

Cons - While I would say PnR defense, it's not like Pau can be any worse than Timmy was this year in those scenarios so I won't say that. However, we get a little worse rebounding and interior defense.

[$pursDynasty]

Mills needs to start a significant percentage of games. We need to at least start a realistic transition to the fact that Parker is a role player. Dude's f'ing jacking up all those shots in the final two minutes of Game 5 vs OKC? WTF.\
Hell no, I for one would prefer cutting Mills than losing Bobo. Bobo when inspired, which admittantly isn't often, is a matchup nightmare. To me Patty hasn't been the same since we won 5. If we need to clear space for Pau Patty would be the one I cut, and try to find a better replacement off the street until the rookie is ready.

[Spurtacular]

If Mills starts instead of Parker, who plays the PG?

Mills, obviously.

[Spurtacular]

\
Hell no, I for one would prefer cutting Mills than losing Bobo. Bobo when inspired, which admittantly isn't often, is a matchup nightmare. To me Patty hasn't been the same since we won 5. If we need to clear space for Pau Patty would be the one I cut, and try to find a better replacement off the street until the rookie is ready.

And then we'd just be even weaker at the guard position. But assuming the $4 mil disparity in their contracts isn't too big an issue, I can see credence in your viewpoint. Though, I'd note the Spurs are openly shopping Diaw; and the writing is on the wall there. We'll quite likely be shipping Diaw and keeping Mills.

[DMC]

Spurs had the best record in franchise history last season with a brand new focal point on offense. We'll be fine this year. We don't need to worry about Golden State until we meet them in the playoffs. By then a lot of things can happen.

[TheGreatYacht]

The starting 5 wasn't the problem in the playoffs, retards. It was that god awful bench led by a washed up Argie.

[TheMulletMan3000]

Mills, obviously.

But, Mills is an undersized SG. He never played PG on offense, Manu did.

[Spurtacular]

Spurs had the best record in franchise history last season with a brand new focal point on offense. We'll be fine this year. We don't need to worry about Golden State until we meet them in the playoffs. By then a lot of things can happen.

Except, it's not good when you are briskly moving along and then get blown out of the water and made to look like a second rate team.

[Spurtacular]

But, Mills is an undersized SG. He never played PG on offense, Manu did.

Mills and Manu played like combo guards together; but I don't think you were paying attention if you're calling into question Mills ability to play point. The debate is how many minutes he can reasonably be expected to do so.

[Big Empty]

Danny Greens dribbling and driving ability is the teams weakness.

[SpursforSix]

Danny Greens dribbling and driving ability is the teams weakness.

Is there any starting SG in the league that is worse? It's hard to fathom that he hasn't developed a passable floater or any kind of ability to lay it up in traffic.

[PublicOption]

Josh Maggette....we need this guy..fast.

[DAF86]

Well, you followed up your hyperbole-laced post with an assertion that 15 million a year is "all-star money" (Parker 40th highest salary last year) and that Tony Parker is a "below average player" (16.2 PER last year). Then you later said that the Spurs need a "big time scorer" rather than people to play defense and distribute the ball. Frankly, when you say something that isn't either completely provably incorrect or outright retarded then I might be ready to analyze it.

If your agenda is just to bag on Tony Parker, start with something true, like that he's been a huge disappointment in the playoffs the last three years, and you might get some agreement. I'm fully on board the, "Parker needs to transform to a pass-first guard" train. Plenty of room.

Nah, we need an explosive guard that scores in bunches to keep up with GS.

[lilbthebasedgod]

Our starting 5 probably improved. Our bench declined if duncan chooses to go. With how much better the warriors got its certainly gonna be tough if not impossible

[bklynspursfan]

Spurs had the best record in franchise history last season with a brand new focal point on offense. We'll be fine this year. We don't need to worry about Golden State until we meet them in the playoffs. By then a lot of things can happen.

+1

[BillMc]

Spurs had the best record in franchise history last season with a brand new focal point on offense. We'll be fine this year. We don't need to worry about Golden State until we meet them in the playoffs. By then a lot of things can happen.

Truth.

[RD2191]

The SL looks solid but it's tough to see how good they'll be with a 300lb anchor starting at PG tbh.

:lmao

[lmbebo]

can see kyle getting much more burn next year. More of a ball handler, point forward.

[Taking it to the Hole]

I can see Pop giving more minutes to Anderson and trying to mold him into a point-forward when really I don't think that is a good idea. I wish he would allow Kawhi to bring the ball up and get people into the right offense but it might be too much to ask of Pop to do. If Manu comes back, then he may just have him assume more PG duties but unfortunately Parker is still our starter. I would like to remain optimistic and hope that he can rediscover a semblance of his former self but now with Boris, his best friend gone, I fear he is going to play a lot worse.

[ElNono]

Well, you followed up your hyperbole-laced post with an assertion that 15 million a year is "all-star money" (Parker 40th highest salary last year) and that Tony Parker is a "below average player" (16.2 PER last year). Then you later said that the Spurs need a "big time scorer" rather than people to play defense and distribute the ball. Frankly, when you say something that isn't either completely provably incorrect or outright retarded then I might be ready to analyze it.

If your agenda is just to bag on Tony Parker, start with something true, like that he's been a huge disappointment in the playoffs the last three years, and you might get some agreement. I'm fully on board the, "Parker needs to transform to a pass-first guard" train. Plenty of room.

To be fair, he posted a 14.3 PER in last season's playoffs and a dismal 6.5 PER in the previous season's playoffs. That puts hims squarely into the "below average player" category, at least when the competition is challenging.

That doesn't mean he can't change his role and be back to being more productive. But it has to happen.

[Obstructed_View]

To be fair, he posted a 14.3 PER in last season's playoffs and a dismal 6.5 PER in the previous season's playoffs. That puts hims squarely into the "below average player" category, at least when the competition is challenging.

That doesn't mean he can't change his role and be back to being more productive. But it has to happen.

To be fair, if you'd read my entire post that you quoted, it falls more squarely into the "huge disappointment in the playoffs" category. He was above average for the season, then shit the bed in the playoffs. Unfortunately he wasn't the only Spur to do that.

[ElNono]

To be fair, if you'd read my entire post that you quoted, it falls more squarely into the "huge disappointment in the playoffs" category. He was above average for the season, then shit the bed in the playoffs. Unfortunately he wasn't the only Spur to do that.

He's actually been tits in November and progressively gotten worse as the season rolls on. That's basically the modus operandi in the last couple of seasons. Let's hope Pop and him have something figured out to combat that this season.

[Obstructed_View]

He's actually been tits in November and progressively gotten worse as the season rolls on. That's basically the modus operandi in the last couple of seasons. Let's hope Pop and him have something figured out to combat that this season.

Yeah, I agree. He was amazing on both ends for a time, took a turn, and then crashed and burned late. The hot start is all that buoyed him. I've expected him to focus more on passing when he starts to wear down, as he's done in the past, and it hasn't happened.

This season, he has by far the best-shooting lineup around him that he's ever had. Most point guards only dream of having shooters like this around him. If his assist numbers don't go up a lot, then I'm going to stop defending him to the wolves who think he's useless.

[ElNono]

Yeah, I agree. He was amazing on both ends for a time, took a turn, and then crashed and burned late. The hot start is all that buoyed him. I've expected him to focus more on passing when he starts to wear down, as he's done in the past, and it hasn't happened.

This season, he has by far the best-shooting lineup around him that he's ever had. Most point guards only dream of having shooters like this around him. If his assist numbers don't go up a lot, then I'm going to stop defending him to the wolves who think he's useless.

Danny Green needs to have a hell of a season too, tbh... need more from him on offense

[Obstructed_View]

Danny Green needs to have a hell of a season too, tbh... need more from him on offense

Agreed. I think the spacing of having Aldridge really screwed him up. Seemed like he started to figure it out during the playoffs. A combination of two good bigs that can score inside and a Tony Parker that doesn't completely ignore his open teammates should get Danny some looks.

[Tully365]

PG by committee seems like the best plan... One hope is Kawhi can continue to improve as a ball-handler and take some minutes as a point forward a la Scottie Pippen. If he can do that even 5 MPG it could be an interesting difference. Parker's MPG average has gone down 4 seasons in a row and I expect that to continue. Mills's MPG last year was his highest as a Spur and I also expect that to continue. If anyone else-- Murray and/or Arcidiacono-- can provide 8-10 mpg at PG in addition to Manu, that'll be the best the Spurs can hope for... Ironically Kyle Anderson's best performances statistically came as a Diaw-style C (http://www.82games.com/1516/15SAS8.HTM), and his weakest performance came at PG, so that idea seems like it might be finished...

[spurtech09]

Starters look good but the back ups? Not so much.......

[hombre]

PG by committee seems like the best plan... One hope is Kawhi can continue to improve as a ball-handler and take some minutes as a point forward a la Scottie Pippen. If he can do that even 5 MPG it could be an interesting difference.


This.

Last season we saw Pop easing him into it by running more and more isos for Kawhi. Cleveland/Lebron used it effectively to control the tempo against the Warriors. Sort of a no brainer.

Best thread I've seen in this forum in a while. So many great posts.

[YGWHI]

One hope is Kawhi can continue to improve as a ball-handler and take some minutes as a point forward a la Scottie Pippen.
He has already improved, obviously not at Pippen/LeBron levels but we saw a significant progress in that area last season.

The real issue is he plays more minutes with Parker than other guards and Pop isn't ready to take the ball out of Parker's hands yet.

[YGWHI]

Why PATFO hasn't done that in the last few years probably tells you they believe Parker still has a couple more good years in him...
Because RC/Pop never made a mistake...

Like it or not, Parker's last two playoffs were bad, really bad. Can't remember a good playoffs series from him since the series against Blazers in 2014.

And remaining two years more on his contract.

[DMC]

Except, it's not good when you are briskly moving along and then get blown out of the water and made to look like a second rate team.
They are a second rate team if you consider the Cavs and Warriors 1st rate. What do you expect, a ring every season?

[cutewizard]

Over the course of the whole season, Golden State was not a great half-court team. They were good, but not great. Their real hammer came in the first 8-9 seconds of the shot clock. That was where their shooting percentages got jacked up so high, and it was where their biggest advantage could be seen. Part of the way to deal with that is obviously to play good transition defense. But my observation was that they fed off of other teams' bad shots. If Pau can still be a consistent low-post scorer, it's a HUGE plus when playing the Dubs.

I don't care how good a shooter is from distance, they still make a lower percentage of their attempts than good shooters in the paint. A 40% 3-point shooter is considered good, and they score 1.2 points per attempt over time. But that means that 60% of their attempts potentially provide opportunities for GS to jam it back down the court. A guy making 60% from close range still only scores 1.2 points per attempt. But only 40% of his attempts have a chance of leading to a fast break.

The point being that Pau's offensive game (which Tim was totally lacking at the end of the season) will lead to more points for the Spurs. But against teams like Golden State, it will lead to better defense for the Spurs, because they will have the opportunity to get back into their defense instead of constantly playing transition D.


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

This is the perfect statement of the offseason.

That is why the Warriors are still beatable.

Cheer up guys, the offseason is not over for us.

Starting line-up is ok, not lets have a hell of a bench!

[SAGirl]

This is my thinking. I would be surprised if we don't reach the Finals at least once in the next 3 years and (probably get a ring when we do). Though there will be some lumps in years we don't.

People criticizing the Pau signing should realize how much we'd fall if we didn't get him AND Duncan retired. Sometimes a good offseason is minimizing your losses. Ask OKC.
^^^Such a smart statement right here. kudos. :toast

[cutewizard]

Pau Gasol, lets see what hes got left...............

[RD2191]

As long as Parker keeps starting he'll continue to believe he's as good or better than his 4 other teammates. He needs to ride pine and get a reality check.

[look_at_g_shred]

Bench is starting to look better offensively with Bertans and Forbes (possibly) joining the juice unit

[BillMc]

^^^Such a smart statement right here. kudos. :toast
:toast Cheers

[look_at_g_shred]

As long as Parker keeps starting he'll continue to believe he's as good or better than his 4 other teammates. He needs to ride pine and get a reality check.
Dude literally has 'Mamba Mentality'

[gambit1990]

teams that play the spurs want parker dominating the ball because that keeps it outta the hands of our two best players.

part of the reason i want him coming off the bench. as a scorer.

[spurspokesman]

Parker and green doesn't inspire much confidence for a backcourt. Manu with all his faults have covered for parkers shortcomings but that Manu is no longer that type of player. Parker is the best the spurs can do and I understand but it's time to take a long and hard look at the PG position.

[PublicOption]

WE NEED JOSH MAGETTE

[Roger Freemason Jr.]

Kyle shitting all over the haters in this thread. 3 point shot is much improved, his defense is better, and most importantly, he's looks confident.

[kobyz]

Parker gonna keep starting for spurs team... He is even killing his franch national team against New Zealand, his team taking over only when the coach bench him... Spurs becoming even more a joke than what they last two years...

[Atl Spur]

My problem with KA is that he doesn't play with fire or want to! Sure, he acts as if he's full of fire but it's so fake and see through to me. He plays as if he's already arrived while players like Kawhi play as if they are still trying to make the team. Fire and want to is very evident.......... If this Murray kid is willing to listen, he may be something pretty special.

[ceperez]

My problem with KA is that he doesn't play with fire or want to! Sure, he acts as if he's full of fire but it's so fake and see through to me. He plays as if he's already arrived while players like Kawhi play as if they are still trying to make the team. Fire and want to is very evident.......... If this Murray kid is willing to listen, he may be something pretty special.

Well, if you didn't have the athleticism that other players like Kawhi have, then you are thinking all the time. So I don't think the added emotion works well with KA.

[sasaint]

Pau Gasol, lets see what hes got left...............

How much did Tim have left at age 36? Quite a lot, and he only had one good leg. Pau is ONLY 36, and he has two good legs. He will be a continuation of Tim from 2 years ago.

[cutewizard]

Imagine if we had, for example, Pat Beverly instead of Parker, hmmmmm

[cutewizard]

i have an idea, Pop elevates Parker as playing coach, gives him lots of duties and responsibilities.....

so no need to play him in the SL, hahahahahahaha