Zach Lowe : "I think there is mutual interest between CP3 and the Spurs" + LMA future

[spursistan]

867074935449157633


:wow


I know there's been a lot of rumblings about Chris Paul [and the Spurs] and I think that's real. I think there's mutual interest there, I don't know how real it is given the Clippers can offer a gigantic amount of money and are also a really good team


Lowe and Kevin Arnovitz discuss the Spurs; Aldridge and what's next for them..


on LMA starts at 17:45

On Paul starts at 25:30

[spursistan]

Listen to the whole thing, and before discussing CP3, Lowe politely shits on Mills' ability as true point guard :lol..

[Chinook]

Lowe hasn't stopped being full of shit yet. Bygones can be bygones in July. Maybe.

[Jdspur20]

it helps that Duncan is friends with Paul, but I really don't see him coming. How in the world can they afford him?

[TXstbobcat]

it helps that Duncan is friends with Paul, but I really don't see him coming. How in the world can they afford him?

Pau would have to opt out and spurs would have to get rid of LMA's contract to pay cp3 what he will want.

[ducks]

can they do a sign and trade for either cp3 or blake?
lma for either one would like blake over cp3 though

[spursistan]

Lowe repeated "it is real" like 3 times...

[DaBears]

Pau would have to opt out and spurs would have to get rid of LMA's contract to pay cp3 what he will want.

pau did state early in the season he plans on opt' into his player option.. He wouldn't turn down 16 mil.

[SpursforSix]

pau did state early in the season he plans on opt' into his player option.. He wouldn't turn down 16 mil.

What if he passed away before he opted in?

[TXstbobcat]

pau did state early in the season he plans on opt' into his player option.. He wouldn't turn down 16 mil.

yep, Spurs are stuck with him for 1 more year.

[CGD]

pau did state early in the season he plans on opt' into his player option.. He wouldn't turn down 16 mil.

If there is anything to this "interest" by CP3, Pau can use this leverage to refinance his deal. Opt out and try to eek out another 15M with something like 3/30m. That can give the Spurs some of the cap flexibility they'd need.

[rjv]

i thought i had seen some comments later in the season where pau hinted at opting out.

[Chinook]

What if he passed away before he opted in?

Actually, that's an interesting question. You have to opt into a PO. If you don't do anything by the deadline, you opt out automatically. So there are scenarios where he could not opt in and might give the team cap space. But him dying might allow a relative opt in for him.

[SpursforSix]

Paul is too expensive. If they're going to spend that kind of money, they need to do it on a big.
Murray is fine for next year for what they're paying him. Especially if Parker is healthy.

[TXstbobcat]

Actually, that's an interesting question. You have to opt into a PO. If you don't do anything by the deadline, you opt out automatically. So there are scenarios where he could not opt in and might give the team cap space. But him dying might allow a relative opt in for him.

in that case would the Spurs qualify for the disabled player exception????

[SpursforSix]

Actually, that's an interesting question. You have to opt into a PO. If you don't do anything by the deadline, you opt out automatically. So there are scenarios where he could not opt in and might give the team cap space. But him dying might allow a relative opt in for him.

Ok. Noted. So...are we all OK if that happens?

[rjv]

could marc opt in for pau if pau died?

[SpursforSix]

could marc opt in for pau if pau died?

I would think so. They're brothers.

[SpursforSix]

Or maybe Marc could designate Conley as the replacement.

[Chinook]

Ok. Noted. So...are we all OK if that happens?

Si el muere, el muere.

[Chinook]

in that case would the Spurs qualify for the disabled player exception????

Would imagine so, yes.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

How much would he hurt kawhi by handling the ball too much?

[SpursforSix]

Si el muere, el muere.


En un mundo perfecto

[Chinook]

How much would he hurt kawhi by handling the ball too much?

He'd compound the fall of "The Beautiful Game" for sure. He'd reduce Kawhiso, though, and Leonard is a good enough off-ball player to still get his points

[DPG21920]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

[Chinook]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

I have plenty of concerns. But I don't like Kawhiso either. That did them no favors in the last round. So I'd rather them move more toward guys who can pass and score and don't need the ball in their hands all the time rather than having two guys dominating the ball.

[jermaine]

That was a great podcast. Makes me want Paul!!

[picnroll]

If Spurs could get Paul and if he could be healthy for the playoffs I like Spurs chances against anyone. Would Paul be willing to sign with a year two player option and get paid when the Spurs have cap space.

[Chillen]

I don't see CP3 leaving LA, but Spurs probably need him more than he needs them at this point. I see him staying with Clippers and cashing in. I like that duo of Paul/Leonard but in this league you need a big 3. If Manu retires, they trade Pau or Aldridge and maybe Parker get's traded who will be the third star. Unless they keep Aldridge and get rid of Gasol and shop Parker. Spurs would have a big 3 of CP3/Leonard/Aldridge.

[goliath]

Zach Lowe was the first one I had heard who ever mentioned Aldridge to the Spurs as a real and legitimate possibility. He reported it right after the all star break when Portland was like the number 3 seed in the west and everyone thought it was a foregone conclusion that aldridge would resign in Portland. He is a pretty credible NBA reporter.

[weebo]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

Yes they can function together. Plus, CP3 would be of great help for everyone else not named Kawhi.

[goliath]

I have concerns about cp3's age, cost and fit but if a player of his caliber wants to play for you you sign him and try and make it work

[picnroll]

Paul plays with Blake and Blake a ball in the hands guy.

[Chillen]

I have concerns about cp3's age, cost and fit but if a player of his caliber wants to play for you you sign him and try and make it work

Well Paul has had injurys, more than Tony who is 2 years older. Of course he fills a need for this team now so it makes sense to try and sign him in the offseason and make it work.

[NASpurs]

Here we go, an offseason mega thread that'll get 30 pages and will ultimately amount to CP3 resigning with the Clippers. :lol

BTW besides being friends with Duncan, he's also good friends with Parker.

[Keepin' it real]

I have concerns about cp3's age, cost and fit but if a player of his caliber wants to play for you you sign him and try and make it work

Many had similar concerns about LMA a couple of years ago. How'd that work out? So basically:

If the Spurs do sign CP3 but don't win ... it's a bad decision.

If the Spurs don't sign CP3 and don't win (especially if he has a great next couple of seasons), it's a bad decision.

So, the only way the Spurs and CP3 can end with a "good" decision is for the Spurs to sign CP3 and then win 1 or 2 NBA titles.

Anything less will be failure in the eyes of spurstalk.

[picnroll]

What? Not the point. Point is Blake usually has the ball in his hands, gets his own shots and Clups offense was effective, better when Griffin was better. Bottom line are you trying to say Spurs with Paul would be worse than with Parker?

[313]

Please, PATFO, pass on him.

Millsap would be money better spent

[SpursforSix]

Many had similar concerns about LMA a couple of years ago. How'd that work out? So basically:

If the Spurs do sign CP3 but don't win ... it's a bad decision.

If the Spurs don't sign CP3 and don't win (especially if he has a great next couple of seasons), it's a bad decision.

So, the only way the Spurs and CP3 can end with a "good" decision is for the Spurs to sign CP3 and then win 1 or 2 NBA titles.

Anything less will be failure in the eyes of spurstalk.

You got it. I don't want to gamble with the kind of money that it will take to get Paul. It'll set the team back several years if they don't win.

[Mal]

If Paul comes here as max players, this team wouldn't be better next year.

[InRareForm]

you can say what you want about LMA as a player, but his FA signing kind of gave this franchise some confidence with getting free agents. also having a top 3 player in the league and best coach helps as well.

[Jdspur20]

If Gasol opts in, is there anything in his contract that can prevent the Spurs from trading him?

[SpursforSix]

you can say what you want about LMA as a player, but his FA signing kind of gave this franchise some confidence with getting free agents. also having a top 3 player in the league and best coach helps as well.

Yeah...it just sucks that he's so big and skilled but is hesitant to play down low.

[Russ]

If you think LMA's aloofness (attitude) created problems . . . :lol

[NASpurs]

At 32, Paul's grandeur dreams of actually reaching the conference finals... I mean, to win a ring is better with the Spurs than the Clippers especially if the Clippers are going to gut everyone outside of their big 3. But that's an insane amount of money that he would have to give up and the Spurs would have to do cap gymnastics to actually have a chance of signing him that would leave the team with gaping holes. Who knows if Paul has any confidence in the Clippers management to build a team that could compete with the Warriors seeing as most teams in the West are playing second banana. Then there's the whole thing of living in SA compared to LA.

You know Paul is interested in the Spurs but let's be realistic, things are extremely stacked against the Spurs right now and it starts with that $200+ million contract that the Clippers can offer.

[spurraider21]

omg... zach lowe made a wild prediction that spurs would trade aldridge and then major outlets starting reporting that :lol... can only imagine the CP3 hysteria just based on a lowe comment

[lefty20]

CP3's age and health problems make this an obvious pass, tbh.

[coachmac87]

I tried to tell everyone and I feel I'm the bus driver of CP3 to SA....

Lowe is sometimes questionable regarding predictions of how teams play etc but he's connected for sure and has legit sources..probably more than anyone still with ESPN tbh..

But Woj started this whole thing and since he did I know it's real...it's just about the moving parts Simmons,Pau, Parker, Dedmon, Mills, Manu etc that make it hard to really comprehend what it'll take..

But we're fans and aren't in the Spurs or Paul camp so we don't know what the true priorities are...but there's toooooo much smoke going around for it to not be real..

Paul wants a ring and KD has made it easy for others to jump ship without criticism tbh..

[Hoops Czar]

Lowe repeated "it is real" like 3 times...

It's as "real" as Paddy getting $20M from the Spurs.

[HarlemHeat37]

Chris Paul created a CBA rule that will directly help him maximize his potential earnings, tbh:lol he's taking as much money as he can..

[tholdren]

He'd compound the fall of "The Beautiful Game" for sure. He'd reduce Kawhiso, though, and Leonard is a good enough off-ball player to still get his points

Meh idk if hed compound it tbh. It takes touches from lma and pau will pass or dribble with a purpose

[Russ]

CP3's age and health problems make this an obvious pass, tbh.

Redick is cheaper and would fit in better (if you really, really want a FA guard).

[TXstbobcat]

Chris Paul created a CBA rule that will directly help him maximize his potential earnings, tbh:lol he's taking as much money as he can..

this thread will reach 100 pages and CP3 will sign his max deal with the clippers.

[coachmac87]

Chris Paul created a CBA rule that will directly help him maximize his potential earnings, tbh:lol he's taking as much money as he can..

Right but that's if Clippers offer and he takes the 5th year... any player making 40+ at 36-37 is tough for a franchise. Wouldn't surprise me if a 2-3 year deal woul be a possibility nobody is really thinking about..

He'd still clip $100M with that deal which is more than the previous CBA deal was...so yeah he can still benefit and contend if he REALLY wants to

[FkLA]

It feels weird having star players seriously consider the Spurs. I'm still stuck in the days where with all the cap space in the world, our big FA signing was fucking Rasho.

If CP3 wants to be here you do everything possible to make it happen though. You worry about fit and paying him an exuberant amount towards the tail end of the contract later on.

[baseline bum]

I tried to tell everyone and I feel I'm the bus driver of CP3 to SA....

Lowe is sometimes questionable regarding predictions of how teams play etc but he's connected for sure and has legit sources..probably more than anyone still with ESPN tbh..

But Woj started this whole thing and since he did I know it's real...it's just about the moving parts Simmons,Pau, Parker, Dedmon, Mills, Manu etc that make it hard to really comprehend what it'll take..

But we're fans and aren't in the Spurs or Paul camp so we don't know what the true priorities are...but there's toooooo much smoke going around for it to not be real..

Paul wants a ring and KD has made it easy for others to jump ship without criticism tbh..

If they can salary dump Aldridge for capspace and could just squeeze in about a $31 million offer to Paul, assuming Gasol, Dedmon, and Lee don't opt out. Then Ginobili, Simmons, Mills walk and the roster looks like

G Paul
G Green
F Leonard
F Anderson
C Gasol

6 Murray
7 Lee
8 Dedmon
9 Bertans
10 Forbes
11-13 minimum salary player

IR Parker (with hopefully a return in the second half of the season)

I don't think that's a team that could beat Golden State and if you sign Chris Paul you have to win right away because of his age and injury history.

Now if they could get Gasol to opt out of his deal to sign something like a 3 year, $30 million contract they might have a chance to keep Simmons.

[kaji157]

Spurs best chance is if the Clippers fail to renew Blake and then choose to go rebuilding mode, going back to being, "the clippers".

[LkrFan]

Pau would have to opt out and spurs would have to get rid of LMA's contract to pay cp3 what he will want.

866881100102205440

https://media.giphy.com/media/1PgPvWLfXGkCY/giphy.gif

[TD 21]

I don't doubt it, but it's just not practical. It's not just the 5th year, it's the Spurs' extremely difficult path to max cap space. Salary dumping Gasol would be a given and probably relatively easy too, but Parker would require attaching a future protected 1st and severing ties. I can't imagine them doing that or Paul being on board with it, considering they're long time friends . . .of course, considering it's a clear cut top 10 player and their greatest positional need, they should still pursue it to the fullest through the back channels and have a meeting anyway.

Once that fails though, they should lock in on Hill, who they should have been pursuing through the back channels since he got traded. He'd be an ideal bridge from Parker to Murray and can play with either on both sides of the ball. He'd also only require them to move Gasol, as far as significant salary and obviously move on from Mills. Both would be fine, since neither can really play against most of the best teams anyway.

[RD2191]

866881100102205440

https://media.giphy.com/media/1PgPvWLfXGkCY/giphy.gif

:lmao

[sasaint]

Please, PATFO, pass on him.

Millsap would be money better spent

Good call. :tu

[objective]

Redick is cheaper and would fit in better (if you really, really want a FA guard).

Redick has already started his decline spiral, his production numbers collapsed and probably keep falling.

[SAGirl]

Pop was secretly complimentary and showed his admiration for CP3 when he suggested Murray to study him.

[bic50]

866881100102205440

https://media.giphy.com/media/1PgPvWLfXGkCY/giphy.gif
shit :lol

[tholdren]

shit :lol

The shit he needs to learn is like bringing a once paralyzed person into being self sufficient, someone from recovering from a stroke. He cant pass, he cant score when it matters, he cant defend, he cant rebound. He CANT EVEN SET A GOOD PICK. Hell, he doenst even make contact on 80 percent of his pick attempts.... the system cant teach him how to function at basic levels. Hes a loser, out of shape, and just a douche.

[Joseph Kony]

Redick is cheaper and would fit in better (if you really, really want a FA guard).

Reddick is already 32 and doesnt have much outside of his ability to shoot, hes already started declining. He will easily get 20 million a season though and that sure as hell is not a worthy or necessary move for SA imo...

[TXstbobcat]

[QUOTE=LkrFan;9028853]866881100102205440


i never said Pau was going to opt out. I simply answered the question of what would need to happen to open up enough cap space.

[ElNono]

Reddick is already 32 and doesnt have much outside of his ability to shoot, hes already started declining. He will easily get 20 million a season though and that sure as hell is not a worthy or necessary move for SA imo...

:pop: "Ideal"

[Keepin' it real]

Whatever happened to "Built not bought"?

Maybe there's a reason why the likes of RJ, LMA, Pau etc. haven't worked out as envisioned.

[TheGreatYacht]

Whatever happened to "Built not bought"?

Maybe there's a reason why the likes of RJ, LMA, Pau etc. haven't worked out as envisioned.
Spurs and a transcending star linked. Knew the inevitable "built not bought" fans would show up. apalisoc_9

[duncan2k5]

enough of these old guys...the NBA is a young man's league now...we have Murray...lets send our money elsewhere

[duncan2k5]

not to mention CP3 is a perennial choke in the playoffs...ill pass

[BatManu20]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

Absolutely they could. Kawhi and CP3 are both selfless players who would make it work. And tbh the Spurs would be dumb not to try to attain him if it's a realistic possibility. With that said, I don't think he's coming here. Too much money to turn down from the Clips. And if he did, I think it would hinder Kawhi's chances at an MVP award in the next couple seasons (not that it really matters if it gives us a better shot a ring, but just saying).

[Knucklehead]

I just want to see Anthony Davis join the Spurs and play with Kawhi. Wont be a free agent till 2020 though.

[testies]

Great we need another overpaid 33+ year old

[therealtruth]

The key is you need a guy who can play off Kawhi.

[TheGreatYacht]

Great we need another overpaid 33+ year old
Another? I doubt Manu gets anything above the vets min

[tholdren]

enough of these old guys...the NBA is a young man's league now...we have Murray...lets send our money elsewhere

The oldest guys in the league were doing just fine in the playoffs, manu vince. Its more about effort than age

[SPURt]

I don't want Paul, I'd prefer not to add older guys

[SpurPadre]

Spursfan and their old man fetish...

[timtonymanu]

Spursfan and their old man fetish...

Yeah with our luck picking aging stars, if cp3 comes here, he's gonna go on the decline even more.

[UNT Eagles 2016]

En un mundo perfecto

LaMarcia es una panocha jodida

[Clipper Nation]

Take Choke Paul, please!

[Vic Petro]

CP3 is a big union guy. I doubt he ever seriously considers not taking the best deal.

[Killakobe81]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

Cp3 would help Aldridge lee pau green etc even Kiwi but could mess up his development curve as a go to scorer and playnaker. Kiei needs reliable shooters and another playmaker but not a ball dominant one. If George Hill's early season renaissance is not a mirage ...he would be a good fit or healthy lowry or even Gordon H from Utah. Im with Deeps, Paul is waaaaay better than the guys i mentioned ...and would be a better buy than lasoftus but i think the fit is far from perfect. Long term leonard needs a money shooter and defender to alleviate some of the tougher matchup with kiwi having to defend LeBron than outscore him too ...and the shooter would give him more space for his sublime iso game

[Killakobe81]

Take Choke Paul, please!
:lol

[DAF86]

It feels weird having star players seriously consider the Spurs. I'm still stuck in the days where with all the cap space in the world, our big FA signing was fucking Rasho.

If CP3 wants to be here you do everything possible to make it happen though. You worry about fit and paying him an exuberant amount towards the tail end of the contract later on.

This, I would take making sure to be a top 3 team in the league, with a bigger chance of upsetting GS, for the next 2/3 years. You worry about the latter years of that contract later on, you can always trade his expiring the last year, tbh.

[Hoops Czar]

This is the time of year all the Spurstalk homers come out to play.

[testies]

Another? I doubt Manu gets anything above the vets min
gasoft

[GSH]

This is the time of year all the Spurstalk homers come out to play.


That only happens on days that end in "y".

[John B]

Cousins > CP3. Winning culture will be great for him. Spurs cannot outscore Worriers but best defensive team can slow them down, then pound them on the offensive. Except Softridge shied on contact. Step in the most dominant big man in the league. Chance to build dynasty with Kawhi and Co.

[silverblackfan]

I would have loved to have CP3 in previous years, but now would rather see where this Murray experiment goes. He is already showing a ton of talent and work effort. If he continues to work hard and improve, we will be fine by the end of next year.Cousins is a pipe dream. He would provide a strong, two-way athletic big man, but who wants to gamble on his mind set? Pop is respected, but it is really about Cousins being able to be couched. It would be a box of chocolates.

[Mnky]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

CP3 is the best floor general in the NBA. Next to kawhis historical playoff run, chris paul was the most efficient player in the nba playoffs this year. Kawhi would benefit greatly with him.

He's the tim Duncan of PG. Has never relied on athleticism, but game awareness to succeed. He will be the same player for several years.

[DeRozan m8]

Cousins > CP3. Winning culture will be great for him. Spurs cannot outscore Worriers but best defensive team can slow them down, then pound them on the offensive. Except Softridge shied on contact. Step in the most dominant big man in the league. Chance to build dynasty with Kawhi and Co.

Agreed.

Always thought Cousins could be awesome as a Spur under Pop.

[99 Problems]

Yer his game should age as good as any ones tbh. Good scorer. When he gets to that shoulder spot he's very reliable.

[SpursforSix]

Agreed.

Always thought Cousins could be awesome as a Spur under Pop.

Yes sir. Boogie and Leonard on the same team. Would make them the favorites imo.

[Killakobe81]

Just remember there are those that warned yall away from Aldridge and Pau ..
At least they stay healthy despite his high efficiency numbers he also breaks down at the worst times ...we suck and i still dont want him at the max, buyers beware ...his game may age fine ...when he is healthy ...but always misses key regular season stetches and or playoff games habitually.
You guys have a great takent locked up ...instead of rushing to marry Kiwi to the first pretty free agent that smiles or spreads their legs ...why not wait for "wifey"?! LEbron is already 30 with lots of miles and Durant and steph will be so soon. Spurs shouldnt force a bad marriage imho ...

[John B]

Boogie and Kawhi is the best defensive answer to Worriers if any. Kawhi and Co can guard the 3's and Boogie can swat away incoming layups. CP3 on the defensive end does not change much, but would still need that shot blocker in the middle. Curry and Durant feast on Spurs' bigs.

[TheGreatYacht]

Cousins isn't a free agent why is he being discussed?

The time will come when the Spurs can go after him (same year TP, Gasol, and potentially LMA come off the books)

CP3 is the goal right now.

[John B]

Can Spurs do a sign and trade for Cousins? LMA can compliment Davis with his outside shots. LMA demeanor can be more ideal to a younger team compared to Cousins esp if not winning. Cousins/Kawhi can lure CP3 but needs to structure his contract to get more when TP/Ginobili out of the books. Then we get Cousins/Kawhi/CP3 while Murray still one or two years. Is that doable?

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Can Spurs do a sign and trade for Cousins? LMA can compliment Davis with his outside shots. LMA demeanor can be more ideal to a younger team compared to Cousins esp if not winning. Cousins/Kawhi can lure CP3 but needs to structure his contract to get more when TP/Ginobili out of the books. Then we get Cousins/Kawhi/CP3 while Murray still one or two years. Is that doable?

No.

[PopTheGOAT]

I can't help but think this would be a mistake

[Ron Swanson]

I'll wait to see what Tspence says. That guy is so good he called Pau to the Spurs two years before it happened.

[Brazil]

I did not pay attention to that possibility tbh... as far as I understood Spurs cannot throw the amount of money clippers can and gap is too big to get CP3 interest. I'm sure he would love to play for the Spurs but won't let that much of money on the table for that...

[superbigtime]

I can't help but think this would be a mistake

[coachmac87]

I did not pay attention to that possibility tbh... as far as I understood Spurs cannot throw the amount of money clippers can and gap is too big to get CP3 interest. I'm sure he would love to play for the Spurs but won't let that much of money on the table for that...


Yeah but I'm curious how much Paul can save with the NO STATE INCOME TAX and if that makes a difference..

[sananspursfan21]

Does no one, outside of the merits of spending money on CP3 at his age, have concerns with his fit? Kawhi has the ball a lot and would SA really adjust their offense by taking the ball out of Kawhi's hands to be in CP3's?

CP3 is a high usage, ball-in-the-hand to create for others player and I don't see him changing. Could SA function and both Kawhi/CP3 change their style of play?

I think I'm in the minority that would have serious reservations about it. I would love reading all the "Spurs are back in contention just when you think they're done" cliche articles but deep in the depths of my basketball instinct, I would be worried for our guys. We'll look good on paper but I think we'd have another version of a fool's gold season.

[Mugen]

Dejounte tbh. Nigga is the future.

[mo7888]

I have reservations about paying the money it would take to get CP3. I am however, firmly in the Avery Bradley camp. I think he fits better in a Spurs system than anyone else. He could even play the Patty role at times as a PG with Kawhi as the primary ball-handler. He's got so much versatility and his D against the Warriors would be sorely needed. I'd try to get them to take Pau and a future 1st for him and move LMA to the 5 but, I'd be willing to trade LMA for him straight up and try and find a young 4 to come in a develop off of the bench.

[tbdog]

Our efficiency will go through the roof. Those %, those steals, that defense if we somehow keep Green. It would be dream for 2 season tbh. You would be insane to think you would rather have Murray. In his rookie year, Paul avg 16 and 7 on 43% shooting. By year three he was avg over 20 and 11. You guys would seriously decline the second best pg in the league for Murray’s development?

[mo7888]

Our efficiency will go through the roof. Those %, those steals, that defense if we somehow keep Green. It would be dream for 2 season tbh. You would be insane to think you would rather have Murray. In his rookie year, Paul avg 16 and 7 on 43% shooting. By year three he was avg over 20 and 11. You guys would seriously decline the second best pg in the league for Murray’s development?


It's not a question of declining the 2nd best PG in the league. It's a matter of declining to guarantee to pay in $40M per season when he's 35 and 36 years old while Kawhi is still in his prime at 28 and 29.

[tbdog]

I have reservations about paying the money it would take to get CP3. I am however, firmly in the Avery Bradley camp. I think he fits better in a Spurs system than anyone else. He could even play the Patty role at times as a PG with Kawhi as the primary ball-handler. He's got so much versatility and his D against the Warriors would be sorely needed. I'd try to get them to take Pau and a future 1st for him and move LMA to the 5 but, I'd be willing to trade LMA for him straight up and try and find a young 4 to come in a develop off of the bench.

Celtics would consider that if they net Hayward. If they trade for Butler or P.George, I imagine Bradley would be involved in the deal. So lets say the Celtics sign Hayward straight. They might be willing to take on Gasol expiring plus Bertans for Bradley and Zeller. That way they will be shredding contracts to pay IT. But they will want unprotected 1sts.

[spursparker9]

This is like Jason Kidd situation in 2003 offseason all over again.

Murray = Young MVParker
CP3 = J-Kidd

[baseline bum]

I did not pay attention to that possibility tbh... as far as I understood Spurs cannot throw the amount of money clippers can and gap is too big to get CP3 interest. I'm sure he would love to play for the Spurs but won't let that much of money on the table for that...

Salary dumping Aldridge is the only reasonable way.

[picnroll]

People complain about Aldridge being fat, out of shape. Cousins is the poster child for that profile. He's lazy getting back in D, half the time because he's picking up a tech. Pop would have Boogie buried so deep in the bench he'd need binoculars to see the floor.

[baseline bum]

This is like Jason Kidd situation in 2003 offseason all over again.

Murray = Young MVParker
CP3 = J-Kidd

Murray is nowhere close to how good Parker was at age 19, much less age 20 when that offseason went down. Murray is a nice player but Parker was viewed as a surefire allstar by that time. Hell, Seattle was offering Gary Payton for Parker + Malik Rose after the summer league the year Parker got drafted.

[Chinook]

People complain about Aldridge being fat, out of shape. Cousins is the poster child for that profile. He's lazy getting back in D, half the time because he's picking up a tech. Pop would have Boogie buried so deep in the bench he'd need binoculars to see the floor.

Yeah. Cousins is going to age horribly. My Spurs fandom would definitely wane with him on the team.

[eDizzle20]

I imagine if CP3 were to leave LA he would sign a max 2-year deal with the second season being player option, similar to KD. After the first year he then opts out and signs the 4-year max with the increased 2018 cap. A 33-year old CP3 would still get the max.

[Mikeanaro]

CP3 is getting into the too late chapter.

[Amuseddaysleeper]

Kawhi needs help and he needs it right now. Go all in for CP3, every other player on the roster except for Manu and Kawhi are expendable for CP3.

[HarlemHeat37]

Ugh, I don't like any of these plans, tbh..can't blow your load and use a myopic approach here..

Kawhi is still very young, he's going to need a legitimate star next to him, another guy in his prime, not an old ass nigga..2017-2018 should be a transition season and a gateway for the important 2018 off-season..

Spurs can't blow their load on an aging star or waste their future on 5th/6th-tier players with no remaining potential for growth..

[Joseph Kony]

people keep talking about saving for 2018 but who are we really going after next year? Boogie? PG? no chance they're coming here tbh

[JuneJive]

In the long run, Hayward might be the best fit of all the FA's this yr.

Also most improbable, yet doable.

[HarlemHeat37]

people keep talking about saving for 2018 but who are we really going after next year? Boogie? PG? no chance they're coming here tbh

I meant having big contracts off the books and allowing flexibility to move forward, not necessarily targeting anybody in that class..

[SpursBig3s]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.yahoo.com/amphtml/sports/news/rumor-rumblings-chris-paul-interest-172829904.html

"rumblings" of interest, but basically echoing what Zach Lowe said. Gaining traction

[coachmac87]

I meant having big contracts off the books and allowing flexibility to move forward, not necessarily targeting anybody in that class..


That doesn't make sense lol

[cd98]

I'd be shocked if the Spurs even met with Chris Paul.

[Robz4000]

I meant having big contracts off the books and allowing flexibility to move forward, not necessarily targeting anybody in that class..

You also have to worry about Kawhi though. While going after these 30+ year old stars is a risky gamble, if the Spurs do nothing Kawhi may see it as the Spurs not doing anything to win. He'll be a FA in 2019 most likely and in that scenario the Spurs would have to throw the $200mil max at him to stay or lose him altogether. Since 2018 is looking like a dud they might as well see if they can land CP0 and give Kawhi a legitimate shot the next two years. If that fails then at least the Spurs made the effort in Kawhi's eyes.

[dabom]

I meant having big contracts off the books and allowing flexibility to move forward, not necessarily targeting anybody in that class..

RC is the best numbers guy. Dude probably has plans on plans on plans. :lol

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Doc will suck CP3's nutsack until he relents and resigns with the Clips. He'll get wined and dined and then re-sign.

[snickles]

That doesn't make sense lol
Sure it does. It puts you in a position to offer a contract or to absorb salary in a trade. Cap space isn't always for a FA.

(assuming we are under the cap in 2018, haven't looked at the numbers in awhile)

[kaji157]

What can i say, game wise i like him, i don't see his game declining fast.
Behaviour wise it seems like pop loves the guy, i don't think he is such a bitch if pop is always so high on him.

[raybies]

Doc will suck CP3's nutsack until he relents and resigns with the Clips. He'll get wined and dined and then re-sign.
they'll kidnap him tbh (think DeAndre Jordon)

[TheDoctor]

You also have to worry about Kawhi though. While going after these 30+ year old stars is a risky gamble, if the Spurs do nothing Kawhi may see it as the Spurs not doing anything to win. He'll be a FA in 2019 most likely and in that scenario the Spurs would have to throw the $200mil max at him to stay or lose him altogether. Since 2018 is looking like a dud they might as well see if they can land CP0 and give Kawhi a legitimate shot the next two years. If that fails then at least the Spurs made the effort in Kawhi's eyes.

PATFO don't do this things blindly without talking/consulting to Kawhi first man. I'm 100% sure that all changes concerning staff/players are discussed first with him.

[Brazil]

Yeah but I'm curious how much Paul can save with the NO STATE INCOME TAX and if that makes a difference..

IIRC difference about what Spurs can affor and Clips is very significant, I highly doubt tax saving would compensate tbh

[TD 21]

people keep talking about saving for 2018 but who are we really going after next year? Boogie? PG? no chance they're coming here tbh

Don't mind him. On the one hand, he'll tell you the talent in the league has never been better, then on the other hand, he'll poke holes in 99% of players and act as if you can literally pick and choose from that amount when building a team.

It sounds nice to say wait (as if there's some big score on the horizon) and don't "overpay" players in their 30's, but what's the alternative?

It's not happening, but just theoretically, I'd rather have Paul, a second top 10 player, a puncher's chance at the Warriors and be possibly one break away from a championship, than worry about what level he'll be at in years 3 and 4 and the amount he'll be making. Of course, ideally you wouldn't want to pay him that, but that rare opportunity supersedes that.

[kaji157]

PATFO don't do this things blindly without talking/consulting to Kawhi first man. I'm 100% sure that all changes concerning staff/players are discussed first with him.

Over the years "decitions" table was formed with Pop, RC and the players, i remember an article Manu wrote before about the first time he and Tony were "invited" to that table, i am sure Kawhi and Aldridge are now on it.
in the past i would have been Tim and the Admiral i guess.

[spursistan]

To me, Kawhi making that leap into being, uncontroversially, the 2nd best player in the world has been a game changer these playoffs..The dude has made 27/7/7 look like a routine stat-line a la Lebron. He just had the most dominant postseason of Spurs player since 2003 Duncan. And, with his health not exactly of bullet-proof variety, there are no guarantees 4 years from now. Might as well go take a crack at the Warriors with Leonard at the peak of his powers and another bonafide Top 7-8 player in the league..Only CP3 fits the bill..

[raybies]

There's only one player this free agency that makes sense and is worth the headache of all the roster moves needed to make it work, not to mention the gutting of the team and that's Chris Paul. I mean if your gonna go all in do it with someone of his caliber. I've soured on the George Hill, Lowry, Teague, and Holiday front. From a talent standpoint and financial standpoint it's not worth it. That's why I've been warming up to the Derrick Rose idea. Just one year at the right price and see how it goes. it give time to Murray to see if he's ready and if it doesn't work it doesn't work. Same thing with RJ and with Cap Jack. I think it's worth the risk. Don't underestimate the culture here. Pop and the organization garner alot of respect and Pop is just the coach to not give a hoot to put him in his place. It's really if they sit down and Pop lays the law down and if he's willing to accept. There have been some troubled players come here looking for a second chance. Some do well, some don't, but the risk is small. Hence at the right price. So imo you call Paul as soon as Free Agency starts and see what the interest level is. If not you move on. Personally I'd rather keep the team together for the most part and have that advantage. We won 61 games. Well that's where I'm at.

[TD 21]

There's only one player this free agency that makes sense and is worth the headache of all the roster moves needed to make it work, not to mention the gutting of the team and that's Chris Paul. I mean if your gonna go all in do it with someone of his caliber. I've soured on the George Hill, Lowry, Teague, and Holiday front. From a talent standpoint and financial standpoint it's not worth it. That's why I've been warming up to the Derrick Rose idea. Just one year at the right price and see how it goes. it give time to Murray to see if he's ready and if it doesn't work it doesn't work. Same thing with RJ and with Cap Jack. I think it's worth the risk. Don't underestimate the culture here. Pop and the organization garner alot of respect and Pop is just the coach to not give a hoot to put him in his place. It's really if they sit down and Pop lays the law down and if he's willing to accept. There have been some troubled players come here looking for a second chance. Some do well, some don't, but the risk is small. Hence at the right price. So imo you call Paul as soon as Free Agency starts and see what the interest level is. If not you move on. Personally I'd rather keep the team together for the most part and have that advantage. We won 61 games. Well that's where I'm at.

Hill shouldn't require a headache or gutting, just salary dumping Gasol, as far as significant moves go. You can count not retaining Mills too, but he'd be being upgraded.

[coachmac87]

Don't mind him. On the one hand, he'll tell you the talent in the league has never been better, then on the other hand, he'll poke holes in 99% of players and act as if you can literally pick and choose from that amount when building a team.

It sounds nice to say wait (as if there's some big score on the horizon) and don't "overpay" players in their 30's, but what's the alternative?

It's not happening, but just theoretically, I'd rather have Paul, a second top 10 player, a puncher's chance at the Warriors and be possibly one break away from a championship, than worry about what level he'll be at in years 3 and 4 and the amount he'll be making. Of course, ideally you wouldn't want to pay him that, but that rare opportunity supersedes that.


Can't say it any better TD21...

[raybies]

867482266037104640

[Seventyniner]

Don't mind him. On the one hand, he'll tell you the talent in the league has never been better, then on the other hand, he'll poke holes in 99% of players and act as if you can literally pick and choose from that amount when building a team.

It sounds nice to say wait (as if there's some big score on the horizon) and don't "overpay" players in their 30's, but what's the alternative?

It's not happening, but just theoretically, I'd rather have Paul, a second top 10 player, a puncher's chance at the Warriors and be possibly one break away from a championship, than worry about what level he'll be at in years 3 and 4 and the amount he'll be making. Of course, ideally you wouldn't want to pay him that, but that rare opportunity supersedes that.

Agreed. This team is built to win now and it will take a big move like getting Paul to have a real shot at the Warriors.

[JuneJive]

... Logic says yes to this.

[SpursBig3s]

867482266037104640


Pretty sure this this pic is from 2015, after we lost to the Clips

[FkLA]

867482266037104640

When did Kawhichael have those crazy ass braids?

[BillMc]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqIc5r-5HKs

[TheDoctor]

Pretty sure this this pic is from 2015, after we lost to the Clips

Yep, from a Jordan Brand camp if I remember correctly. People talked about how big and buffed-up Kawhi looked that summer. He looks easily 15-20 pounds over his end of Season weight.

[coachmac87]

It's crazy that the season isn't even over and this story has caught so much fire lmao

[spursistan]

867496271686189060

[100%duncan]

We did say that Kawhi's prime is now and that it's starting to get wasted. The organization is in win-now mode from last season with their signings, a sweep wouldn't change that especially with what they saw in the first game.

[Atl Spur]

The great part about getting CP3 is the effect he would have on teaching Murray. He also has plenty left in the tank .....

[ace3g]

It would be nice to have a starting PG that can be a threat from 3. Teams would have to be careful how they cover Spurs in PnR.

[therealtruth]

Stop getting old guys. Get young guys that can grow together.

[cjw]

Stop getting old guys. Get young guys that can grow together.

This isn't 2K17 where you can stock up on young guys with B+ or better potential and then work them out in the offseason and have a team of 90+ players in a few years. Real world works differently.

[picnroll]

CP is only a year older than Hill and he'll age better. Not exactly as if Hill has been injury free either. Not to mention the difference in talent level. Expensive but precluding a significant injury he should be solid for Kawhi peak years. That said I'm sure it's likely a pipe dream.

[raybies]

He's got a point though. The reason we've had success for 20 years is because we built not bought. We developed young players into stars. The more we buy the shorter our window becomes. Look at Boston with KG, Ray, and Paul or Miami with James, Wade, and Bosh. Boston was out a couple years and thanks to a fleecing of Brooklyn and some clever moves they are back. Miami is out still. But I mean Kawhi doesn't really really on elite athleticism. He should age well. If history is any indicator though we'll attempt to sign the big star cause that's what you do, due diligence etc, then we move on and do what you do and draft and develop. I trust PATFO in this regard.

[Atl Spur]

If paul is mentoring murray you are in essence building so he and Kawhi can grow together. We must get rid of all the dead weight!

[TheGreatYacht]

He's got a point though. The reason we've had success for 20 years is because we built not bought. We developed young players into stars. The more we buy the shorter our window becomes. Look at Boston with KG, Ray, and Paul or Miami with James, Wade, and Bosh. Boston was out a couple years and thanks to a fleecing of Brooklyn and some clever moves they are back. Miami is out still. But I mean Kawhi doesn't really really on elite athleticism. He should age well. If history is any indicator though we'll attempt to sign the big star cause that's what you do, due diligence etc, then we move on and do what you do and draft and develop. I trust PATFO in this regard.
Yeah, look at those Celtics and Heat teams. Winning 3 championships. Groce....

We can win championships building around Bertans, Green, Hanga, and Milutinov! The Warriors superteam won't know what hit them. Hanga and Milutinov are the difference between getting swept and winning in 7!

#BuiltNotBought

[raybies]

Yeah, look at those Celtics and Heat teams. Winning 3 championships. Groce....

We can win championships building around Bertans, Green, Hanga, and Milutinov! The Warriors superteam won't know what hit them. Hanga and Milutinov are the difference between getting swept and winning in 7!

#BuiltNotBought
We won 5 over 20. They had short term success and we have had long term. Can you imagine this place in the if we were in the lottery or rebuilding or a perennial 8 seed or first round exit...

[TheGreatYacht]

We won 5 over 20. They had short term success and we have had long term. Can you imagine this place in the if we were in the lottery or rebuilding or a perennial 8 seed or first round exit...
We have the franchise player, but we don't have Parker and Ginobili. We have Lamarsha and DLeague Green. Kawhi has no help. By the time we develop these euro scrubs (Hanga & Milutinov) Kawhi will be 30.

Nothing I hate worse than stashing euro scrubs: bringing them over on 2yr contracts.. developing them into 8-10th men.. not paying the $$ to keep them after their 2yr contract. Start over. Rinse and repeat.

[DeRozan m8]

Cousins isn't a free agent why is he being discussed?

The time will come when the Spurs can go after him (same year TP, Gasol, and potentially LMA come off the books)

CP3 is the goal right now.

Trade for a package that included LMA tbh

I know Boogies on a short contract but worth the risk

[eDizzle20]

Given the big need the Spurs have for a PG it makes sense to swing for the fences. Next year's offseason crop is not great and I can't imagine Pop will want to coach a diva like Boogie. If not CP3, I'm hoping for Jrue Holiday.

[Killakobe81]

Ugh, I don't like any of these plans, tbh..can't blow your load and use a myopic approach here..

Kawhi is still very young, he's going to need a legitimate star next to him, another guy in his prime, not an old ass nigga..2017-2018 should be a transition season and a gateway for the important 2018 off-season..

Spurs can't blow their load on an aging star or waste their future on 5th/6th-tier players with no remaining potential for growth..

This!! Spurs have time on their side ...

[Killakobe81]

In the long run, Hayward might be the best fit of all the FA's this yr.

Also most improbable, yet doable.

I also think he wpuld be a much better fit he doesnt help kiwi on defense ...but passing shooting and sneaky athleticism

.would.