Woj: Spurs Held Players-Only Meeting to Implore Kawhi's Potential Return to Lineup

[DPG21920]

Well Kawhi will react one of two ways:

1. He will finally realize that his distance was creating an issue for his teammates. As obvious as it was to many of us, he may not have thought like that or realized. He will hopefully start to be around the team more and be more engaged.

2. He will view it as an attack and not care about what they think and just keep doing his thing.

Has less to do with the injury and more to do with leadership/communication

[gospursgojas]

The fact of the meeting, itself, that it was necessary, is the significance -- whether or not there was some melodramatic dialogue.

[DPG21920]

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TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

[SAGirl]

eh, it's more exciting when the media makes it sound like a shouting match.
nah it was a begging and imploring match...
still no denying of begging... danny only denied coming after anybody. :lol

[SAGirl]

Danny Green after seeing TP’s comments: whoopsy daisy
:lmao

Danny has no filter...
if you catch him at the club he will recreate the begging. :downspin:

[Chinook]

Danny Green after seeing TP’s comments: whoopsy daisy

I doubt all 14 of the other players (though I guess it could be 16 with Hilliard and Costello if they were invited) are of exactly the same mind about the meeting and about Kawhi in general. Parker and Manu seem to be sharpening their criticism of Kawhi, while Green is coming to his aid more and more. It's not clear which way is "right" or even which will be more effective. I think it's probably best that both views are being expressed. Tony, Manu, Danny, LaMarcus, and DeJounte are pretty much the only players whose opinions matter, so getting a sense of where the latter two stand would likely give a better picture of the team's mindset.

[DPG21920]

I doubt all 14 of the other players (though I guess it could be 16 with Hilliard and Costello if they were invited) are of exactly the same mind about the meeting and about Kawhi in general. Parker and Manu seem to be sharpening their criticism of Kawhi, while Green is coming to his aid more and more. It's not clear which way is "right" or even which will be more effective. I think it's probably best that both views are being expressed. Tony, Manu, Danny, LaMarcus, and DeJounte are pretty much the only players whose opinions matter, so getting a sense of where the latter two stand would likely give a better picture of the team's mindset.

I know - I was just joking. It’s very clear there is an “old head” mentality and “new school”. I makes perfect sense when taken in context why TP/Manu would view it one way vs most others.

[baseline bum]

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TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

I wouldn't pass to him either, he looks like he has been on the Mills-Blair diet.

[itzsoweezee]

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TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

Lol. I'm finally on team Tony. Dude is embarrassing Kawhi

[SAGirl]

I doubt all 14 of the other players (though I guess it could be 16 with Hilliard and Costello if they were invited) are of exactly the same mind about the meeting and about Kawhi in general. Parker and Manu seem to be sharpening their criticism of Kawhi, while Green is coming to his aid more and more. It's not clear which way is "right" or even which will be more effective. I think it's probably best that both views are being expressed. Tony, Manu, Danny, LaMarcus, and DeJounte are pretty much the only players whose opinions matter, so getting a sense of where the latter two stand would likely give a better picture of the team's mindset.
hmm
good cop/bad cop routine? I dig it.

Think Dijon is too young and new to be opinionated about Kiwi and thus wouldn't be anything but respectful.

Rudy said it was a conversation, but it was real where things that concerned them were talked about. He seems very sincere. Considering his injury history and the fact he joined the team to play with Kiwi, I can picture Rudy being disappointed that Kiwi is sitting out and is in limbo.

It seems the players have only reacted to the characterization of the meeting as being something tense and like an agitated discussion... but there was a discussion/conversation about issues that concern them.

Lamarcus I don't really know about.

Mills, who you don't count much, (should have more clout than Dijon for example, considering vet leadership), said he was reassured that Kiwi is doing all he can to come back and seems to support him in his interview from a couple of days ago, the same day Manu said he wasn't expecting Kiwi back.

Overall, I think the team overall supports Kiwi... but Manu and Tony are really skeptical of him coming back, and of this mystery injury, perhaps even Rudy too.

[spursistan]

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TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

Parker is going HAM on Kawhi bitch-assnes in about the most tactful way he could..:wow


TP toughness has always been underrated, tbh..Like you said in previous post, he was brought up in this league playing alongside warriors like Duncan/Manu/Bowen; he has no truck with the act Kawhi is pulling right now. And you could see his frustration has boiled over..

[spurraider21]

that's not even tactful. not a fan of tony coming at him publicly like that "mine was a hundred times worse"

that's not helping anybody

[SAGirl]

Well Kawhi will react one of two ways:

1. He will finally realize that his distance was creating an issue for his teammates. As obvious as it was to many of us, he may not have thought like that or realized. He will hopefully start to be around the team more and be more engaged.

2. He will view it as an attack and not care about what they think and just keep doing his thing.

Has less to do with the injury and more to do with leadership/communication
both great points DPG.

[DPG21920]

that's not even tactful. not a fan of tony coming at him publicly like that "mine was a hundred times worse"

that's not helping anybody

Is what Kawhi doing helpful? Obviously not considering everyone from the doctors to the coach to the team has been left in the dark.

[SAGirl]

that's not even tactful. not a fan of tony coming at him publicly like that "mine was a hundred times worse"

that's not helping anybody
if that is what came out on the media, you can imagine what came out privately.... use your imagination.

[SpursforSix]

Parker is going HAM on Kawhi bitch-assnes in about the most tactful way he could..:wow


TP toughness has always been underrated, tbh..Like you said in previous post, he was brought up in this league playing alongside warriors like Duncan/Manu/Bowen; he has no truck with the act Kawhi is pulling right now. And you could see his frustration has boiled over..

http://nbatitlechase.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Tony-Parker-Planking-On-The-Floor.jpg

[MoSpur02]

Dang! Tony went in. I understand though. These have been thru injuries too and are doing everything they can to make the playoffs and win ball games. Yet they hear and have know Kawhi has been cleared by the same medical staff that they go and Kawhi isn't playing. I'd be pissed too.

[SAGirl]

TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

On the contrary... I think TP is upset that Kawhi doesn't appear to want to play and that he's not coming back to play this season.

Instead of thinking he's happy he doesn't have to pass to Kawhi, it's the opposite. He wants Kiwi back and thinks he should be playing by now.

[ginobilized]

If we never traded Paul George in the first place, we wouldn’t be having this problem, tbh

[spurraider21]

Is what Kawhi doing helpful? Obviously not considering everyone from the doctors to the coach to the team has been left in the dark.
why are we moving the goalpost from what parker said to what kawhi is doing. its possible that neither is helpful

[spursistan]

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Can you fuckin' imagine it?

This particular episode of this long saga has already tarnished his legacy and perception around the league...

[DPG21920]

why are we moving the goalpost from what parker said to what kawhi is doing. its possible that neither is helpful

No it’s context. The only movement we’ve seen from Kawhi is when Pop made his public comments, then lo and behold Kawhi came out and spoke.

Now there is report of the meeting and players speaking out about it. I would not be surprised this is the tactic to get Kawhi to speak.

[MoSpur02]

I was gonna say something about guys like MJ and Kobe. How would they react to Kawhi's situation?

[spursistan]

I was gonna say something about guys like MJ and Kobe. How would they react to Kawhi's situation?
Jordan would have a new nickname in that case: Teammatekiller

PS. @harlemheat37 has the background story,tbh.

[NASpurs]

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TP definitely not going to pass it to Kawhi when he comes back :lol

Parker basically telling Kawhi to stop being a mental midget pussy.

[spurraider21]

No it’s context. The only movement we’ve seen from Kawhi is when Pop made his public comments, then lo and behold Kawhi came out and spoke.

Now there is report of the meeting and players speaking out about it. I would not be surprised this is the tactic to get Kawhi to speak.
yeah and parker coming out and all but calling kawhi soft publicly is unlikely to be the best way to repair the situation

[Proxy]

Surprised TP said that. One thing to say his was a worse version of the same injury, another to call Kawhi out for getting opinions outside Spurs med staff. That second part seemed more of a callout than the first

[sasaint]

Parker basically telling Kawhi to stop being a mental midget pussy.

The disdain for Kawhi is pretty clear. "a hundred times worse..." :wow

[djohn2oo8]

Making public comments like this doesn't help. And especially right before the playoffs. Sounds like Pop is giving these guys the green light.

[sasaint]

I've changed my tune. I hope Kawhi stays out and the team makes the playoffs - whatever seed, and whatever success or failure. Just make the playoffs without him.

[sasaint]

Making public comments like this doesn't help. And especially right before the playoffs. Sounds like Pop is giving these guys the green light.

Yeah, or else Tony is in for a bunch of DNPs to close out the season!

[SAGirl]

I was gonna say something about guys like MJ and Kobe. How would they react to Kawhi's situation?
I think it was SpurPadre (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=29323)...
who was saying it's too bad the team doesn't have an avery johnson type character in the locker room bc someone would have already punched Kiwi in the face :lol

Sure, he was sarcastic, and it was a joke... but really the current Spurs are the most vanilla like locker room... look at Danny going to extreme lengths to make it clear they don't have personalities like that right now... and even they are getting restless with Kiwi's act.

All the same restlessness we as fans have, they have but worse bc they are the ones who are battling in games, playing through their own nags and injuries and seeing Kiwi out there in the bench with an act laughing... :lol Dude doesn't laugh ever under normal circumstances. He's laughed and clapped more this season than he has in every one of the prior ones. It's all an act. It might even be infuriating as a teammate to see that.

[MoSpur02]

I think it was SpurPadre (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=29323)...
who was saying it's too bad the team doesn't have an avery johnson type character in the locker room bc someone would have already punched Kiwi in the face :lol

Sure, he was sarcastic, and it was a joke... but really the current Spurs are the most vanilla like locker room... look at Danny going to extreme lengths to make it clear they don't have personalities like that right now... and even they are getting restless with Kiwi's act.

All the same restlessness we as fans have, they have but worse bc they are the ones who are battling in games, playing through their own nags and injuries and seeing Kiwi out there in the bench with an act laughing... :lol Dude doesn't laugh ever under normal circumstances. He's laughed and clapped more this season than he has in every one of the prior ones. It's all an act. It might even be infuriating as a teammate to see that.

Sucks to be honest. I would kill for a Kevin Willis on this team right about now.

[r0drig0lac]

yeah and parker coming out and all but calling kawhi soft publicly is unlikely to be the best way to repair the situation
yes, but again without having any confirmed information, people have already created heroes and villains in this story

[hater]

Just give it up fellas

The poor bastard cannot even wipe his own ass and it is already April

Id be surprised if hes even ready for next season start tbqh

[UZER]

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Sometimes the Spurs are too restrained. I wish there was a locker room blow up! Sometimes you got to yell and scream to release pent-up frustration so the person gets to see how much he’s upset his teammates.

[hater]

Id give him at least 9 months to recover and get in shape. He probably will make his comeback next Decmber

If at all

[DPG21920]

yeah and parker coming out and all but calling kawhi soft publicly is unlikely to be the best way to repair the situation

I agree - just saying that 1) the players, especially Manu/TP for obvious reasons, are frustrated and it’s all on Kawhi (not the injury, but the distance and lack of communication with his teammates) & 2) That along with Pop (who is close to TP/Manu) that this public call out fits in line with what Pop said in his interview which then led to Kawhi speaking for like the first time all season.


I think the gloves are off now. If Kawhi does not think or care about what his teammates think, why would the guys battling together stop and care about hurting Kawhi’s feelings. It’s not on the team to repair the relationship; it’s on Kawhi.

[Nathan89]

Tony's comments are terrible for the team tbh. Just because your injury was worse initially doesn't mean the recovery is going to be the same. Way to shape an absolutely terrible narrative about the franchise player. Of course he a history of questionable decision making.

Kawhi will bounce back though regardless of the idiotic comments made by Tony. Thankfully, he has support of Green and Lma hasn't said anything ridiculous either. Also most of the team seems fine. It's only players that should be out the door after this year judging a teammate battling a injury.

[KDKSpurs24]

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Can you fuckin' imagine it?

This particular episode of this long saga has already tarnished his legacy and perception around the league...
Dude it doesn’t matter.. all he has to do is come back and dominate (no matter what team he is on) and all will be forgotten. Forget a perception. “What have you done for me lately”. That’s just how the world works. If Kawhi balls out in the future nobody will care about the perception from this situation.

[jermaine]

They talk about Spurs having leaders... The oldest 2 hardest working that strive to comeback after serious injuries call out the face of the franchise, an everyone go haywire an say they're wrong!?! Way to shoot down the leaders.

[Nathan89]

Sometimes the Spurs are too restrained. I wish there was a locker room blow up! Sometimes you got to yell and scream to release pent-up frustration so the person gets to see how much he’s upset his teammates.

Tony usually releases his "pent-up frustration" on his teammates wife. I guess this is a step in the right direction.

[DPG21920]

Here is the video of the TP interview for full context:

http://www.nba.com/spurs

[DPG21920]

Tony's comments are terrible for the team tbh. Just because your injury was worse initially doesn't mean the recovery is going to be the same. Way to shape an absolutely terrible narrative about the franchise player. Of course he a history of questionable decision making.

Kawhi will bounce back though regardless of the idiotic comments made by Tony. Thankfully, he has support of Green and Lma hasn't said anything ridiculous either. Also most of the team seems fine. It's only players that should be out the door after this year judging a teammate battling a injury.

:lol Making TP/Manu the bad guys here

[DPG21920]

Listenting to the context and how TP said those things, it was perfectly acceptable and thoughtful answers. It was not out of anger, but there was truth in what he was saying.

It’s not TP being a bad guy at all.

[Nathan89]

Sign Danny asap tbh

[dabom]

Tony is taking about himself not Kawhi. You dumb fucks. :lol

[daslicer]

Sucks to be honest. I would kill for a Kevin Willis on this team right about now.

I would love to have Mario Ellie on this team right now. Could you imagine Mario calling out Kawhi like he did to Dave and Tim in this clip at the 6 minute mark.

y17PxtxGBdo

[KDKSpurs24]

Here is the video of the TP interview for full context:

http://www.nba.com/spurs
Wow Tony’s interview wasn’t nearly as bad as the tweet suggested. He pulled quotes from different questions and combined them and all of that haha

[Keepin' it real]

Well Kawhi will react one of two ways:

1. He will finally realize that his distance was creating an issue for his teammates. As obvious as it was to many of us, he may not have thought like that or realized. He will hopefully start to be around the team more and be more engaged.

2. He will view it as an attack and not care about what they think and just keep doing his thing.

Has less to do with the injury and more to do with leadership/communication

I understand what you're saying, but Kawhi would have to be idiotic to not realize this already. He grown.

[DPG21920]

I understand what you're saying, but Kawhi would have to be idiotic to not realize this already. He grown.

You would be surprised at how obvious and self centered some people can be with very little self awareness.

[DPG21920]

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[Seventyniner]

Wow Tony’s interview wasn’t nearly as bad as the tweet suggested. He pulled quotes from different questions and combined them and all of that haha

This. People complaining about the quotes taken out of context haven't listened to the interviews at all.

[Keepin' it real]

The disdain for Kawhi is pretty clear. "a hundred times worse..." :wow

Love it.

[SAGirl]

I've changed my tune. I hope Kawhi stays out and the team makes the playoffs - whatever seed, and whatever success or failure. Just make the playoffs without him.
Kiwi doesn't care about them at this point.

I think they have given him all season to get ready. They have made it to 10 games left in the season, and are in the playoffs but have no margin whatsoever for error... they need to win games from now on and they do need him. If he's going to join the team for the rest of the season the time is right now. So I can understand them wanting to talk to him as teammates.

The only thing is, Manu came out of that meeting with a mind more resolute than ever that it's up to themselves and that Kiwi right now is not coming back.

Perhaps all this is indeed clearing out the air for their playoff run and if it is disappointing (like them missing the playoffs at this point would be), at least they talked to him before.

In a way you could say the playoff for the Spurs have already started. Every game is must win right now... so there is tension.

it's basically a: "do we count on you at all? are you really coming back? or should I start to disregard these leaks to the media that you are coming back as just noise?"
"are you in or are you out Kiwi?"

Kiwi: "nahhhh, I pass, my quad hurts.. ouch"

[davidbowie]

you know what really sucks is that even when kawhi finally comes back it will all be different. the team is tired of his BS even if its not as bad as it seems in out of context quotes and leaked stories. its obv still a messed up situation and nothing will ever be the same.

we're screwed

[Keepin' it real]

This. People complaining about the quotes taken out of context haven't listened to the interviews at all.

Welcome to Earth.

[SAGirl]

Id give him at least 9 months to recover and get in shape. He probably will make his comeback next Decmber

If at all
:lmao
like a pregnancy.
when is this baby due?

[jermaine]

Here is the video of the TP interview for full context:

http://www.nba.com/spurs

Don't sound like he was throwing shade or anything. He just sounds like he's just answering honestly about himself.

[spursfan09]

Happy to hear TP say such things. Kawhi is team Kawhi not Team Spurs. Tony also putting a message out there that the med team can be trusted for future players who may come. Do the spurs want a reputation that they don’t take care of their players? That is how Kawhi is making it seem. All that said, yes Kawhi can miss the rest of this season and come back like an MVP next year and the Spurs will offer their offer and he’ll accept or not. I’ve had it with Kawhi. He seems to have mental issues but I will just wait to see how it plays out. Even though it could be a year from now. Unless he gets traded well then that’ll say he just doesn’t want to be a Spur at all. At least we have guys like TP complimenting the med team and what not seemingly proud to play for the Spurs and put their body on the line.

[Keepin' it real]

I think I just realized why Kawhi quit on the Spurs! Can't believe it took me this long to see it.

Kawhi holds a grudge against his teammates because NOBODY HAD HIS BACK after Zsa Zsa last season. Nobody hard fouled him, no fights, nothing. Instead of his teammates retaliating in any way whatsoever, they simply bent over. (And against GSW this season, still nothing.)

I think that lack of support infuriated Kawhi, and his anger continues to this day, in the form of a "mysterious" injury.

He quit on the Spurs after that series.

Yup, makes sense. Wouldn't you be pissed if you got taken out, but your homies didn't do anything about it?? I'd be looking for a new crew, too.

[SAGirl]

I would love to have Mario Ellie on this team right now. Could you imagine Mario calling out Kawhi like he did to Dave and Tim in this clip at the 6 minute mark.

y17PxtxGBdo
thanks for sharing the old school video... it's so interesting to see how those dynamics develop through the season. Yup, no Ellie personality... maybe Rudy but he's been so injured too.

[spursistan]

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The only two persons I see are left caping for Quadhi are dabom and his personal butler YGWHI :lol ..

Whether on this forum or twitter, majority of people are starting to realize from where the bullshit is emanating. To varying degrees, most have turned on Leonard..

[SAGirl]

you know what really sucks is that even when kawhi finally comes back it will all be different. the team is tired of his BS even if its not as bad as it seems in out of context quotes and leaked stories. its obv still a messed up situation and nothing will ever be the same.

we're screwed

when he's able to play, you can repair all those issues. Sometimes it's even better to air out the grievances. It worked out for Lamarcus last season. But things can only really be worked out when he's back to playing. The problem right now is that he's not playing.

[Russ]

you know what really sucks is that even when kawhi finally comes back it will all be different. the team is tired of his BS even if its not as bad as it seems in out of context quotes and leaked stories. its obv still a messed up situation and nothing will ever be the same.

we're screwed

Even if Kawhi comes back, can Pop ever coach him hard like he did Tim and Manu and Parker?

Will Kawhi ever set that example -- "if he treats Kawhi like that, I better fall in line."

Will that level of trust ever exist again after this or will it just be eggshells and silence?

I'm afraid regardless of what happens from here on out, the "Spurs Way" may have died.

[sasaint]

Even if Kawhi comes back, can Pop ever coach him hard like he did Tim and Manu and Parker?

Will Kawhi ever set that example -- "if he treats Kawhi like that, I better fall in line."

Will that level of trust ever exist again after this or will it just be eggshells and silence?

I'm afraid regardless of what happens from here on out, the "Spurs Way" may have died.

As bad as he may be, maybe that puts a sharper focus on why PATFO overspent on 50Mills. After Manu and Tony he really is the last link in the culture chain.

[gospursgojas]

I didn’t know the meeting occurred on Saturday, after Wolves game.

[UZER]

As bad as he may be, maybe that puts a sharper focus on why PATFO overspent on 50Mills. After Manu and Tony he really is the last link in the culture chain.

Whatever happens, PATFO are going to have to change their approach one way or another. Hopefully Pop retires, but, they need to stop with the loyalty contracts. Stop with the baby rest. Stop with “corporate knowledge” signing of guys that can’t even help on the court. Stop with the old guys old guys old guys. Stop with the random benching of young players for months. Stop with determining a rookie will not participate in the playoffs before the season even starts. Stop sitting guys that are rolling to curb their stats. Stopping benching guys for sticking up for their teammates against an opponent.

Not saying theyre all going to get fixed, but some of those things are going to have to be addressed and changed. It’s actu creating a weird culture these days. Nobody wanted to come here before. Now they’re really not going to come here.

[SpursBig3s]

Take this for what it's worth. This is probably Level 4 info but here goes:

I have a friend who has a friend, an they have a mutual friend whose married to one of the assistant coaches... basically the plan is to sign & trade Kawhi, he will not ever be in a Spurs jersey again. Bottom line it boils down to greed. apparently Kawhi wants to "grow his brand" (idk how, he literally doesn't talk), thinks Spurs rushed him back too soon, blames spurs for re-injury, and wants a bigger market.

take it or leave it. this does explain him going to NY for a 2nd opinion, his own medical team, and his uncle. Personally, if this is true, his uncle has mind fucked him so hard and both can get the hell out

[DPG21920]

Take this for what it's worth. This is probably Level 4 info but here goes:

I have a friend who has a friend, an they have a mutual friend whose married to one of the assistant coaches... basically the plan is to sign & trade Kawhi, he will not ever be in a Spurs jersey again. Bottom line it boils down to greed. apparently Kawhi wants to "grow his brand" (idk how, he literally doesn't talk), thinks Spurs rushed him back too soon, blames spurs for re-injury, and wants a bigger market.

take it or leave it. this does explain him going to NY for a 2nd opinion, his own medical team, and his uncle. Personally, if this is true, his uncle has mind fucked him so hard and both can get the hell out

Well that plan is weird seeing as if Kawhi signs the DPE this Summer it will be 2 years before he can be traded.

[r0drig0lac]

Take this for what it's worth. This is probably Level 4 info but here goes:

I have a friend who has a friend, an they have a mutual friend whose married to one of the assistant coaches... basically the plan is to sign & trade Kawhi, he will not ever be in a Spurs jersey again. Bottom line it boils down to greed. apparently Kawhi wants to "grow his brand" (idk how, he literally doesn't talk), thinks Spurs rushed him back too soon, blames spurs for re-injury, and wants a bigger market.

take it or leave it. this does explain him going to NY for a 2nd opinion, his own medical team, and his uncle. Personally, if this is true, his uncle has mind fucked him so hard and both can get the hell out

hummm. seems legit

[sasaint]

Whatever happens, PATFO are going to have to change their approach one way or another. Hopefully Pop retires, but, they need to stop with the loyalty contracts. Stop with the baby rest. Stop with “corporate knowledge” signing of guys that can’t even help on the court. Stop with the old guys old guys old guys. Stop with the random benching of young players for months. Stop with determining a rookie will not participate in the playoffs before the season even starts. Stop sitting guys that are rolling to curb their stats. Stopping benching guys for sticking up for their teammates against an opponent.

Not saying theyre all going to get fixed, but some of those things are going to have to be addressed and changed. It’s actu creating a weird culture these days. Nobody wanted to come here before. Now they’re really not going to come here.

I agree with you 100% about what needs to happen. Unfortunately we are shackled with the disaster of last off-season. Plus, I do not believe that PATFO is capable of making any of those changes, anyway. In the poll/thread about siding with PATFO or Kawhi, I would choose the Spurs. Neither PATFO nor Kawhi is representing what is best for the franchise at this point.

[dabom]

Well that plan is weird seeing as if Kawhi signs the DPE this Summer it will be 2 years before he can be traded.

Well that was debunked in 1 second. :lol

And trying to grow a brand without actually "branding" is counter intuitive. That doesn't sound like Kawhi. :lol

[sasaint]

Well that plan is weird seeing as if Kawhi signs the DPE this Summer it will be 2 years before he can be traded.

Maybe PATFO think that Kawhi will be rehabbing for two years...?

[bklynspursfan]

Maybe PATFO think that Kawhi will be rehabbing for two years...?

I can see it now. A game in the year 2020

Injury Report:

"Kawhi Leonard (return from injury management since 2017) is out for tonight's game"

[daslicer]

I think I just realized why Kawhi quit on the Spurs! Can't believe it took me this long to see it.

Kawhi holds a grudge against his teammates because NOBODY HAD HIS BACK after Zsa Zsa last season. Nobody hard fouled him, no fights, nothing. Instead of his teammates retaliating in any way whatsoever, they simply bent over. (And against GSW this season, still nothing.)

I think that lack of support infuriated Kawhi, and his anger continues to this day, in the form of a "mysterious" injury.

He quit on the Spurs after that series.

Yup, makes sense. Wouldn't you be pissed if you got taken out, but your homies didn't do anything about it?? I'd be looking for a new crew, too.

Works both ways when has Kawhi ever had his teammates back when someone committed a dirty foul against them? If he's quitting over the Zaza incident then that's very childish.

I don't recall Dirk quitting on the Mavs when David West punked him and nobody had his back.
CHPbm9q9wJA

Can't recall Kobe quitting on the Lakers after Raja Bell clothes lined him.
7V8ZukXsWmk


I can sight even more examples of dirty fouls happening to star players where their teammates didn't do anything. Just calling a spade for spade I believe that Kawhi's uncle has brainwashed him not to want to be in SA because his uncle has always wanted him in LA. I hope I'm wrong but I doubt it.

[sasaint]

I can see it now. A game in the year 2020

Injury Report:

"Kawhi Leonard (return from injury management since 2017) is out for tonight's game"

Almost too sad to be funny, but... :lol

I am beginning to wonder more and more about potential lawsuits - on both ends.

[SpurPadre]

I think it was SpurPadre (http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=29323)...
who was saying it's too bad the team doesn't have an avery johnson type character in the locker room bc someone would have already punched Kiwi in the face :lol

Sure, he was sarcastic, and it was a joke... but really the current Spurs are the most vanilla like locker room... look at Danny going to extreme lengths to make it clear they don't have personalities like that right now... and even they are getting restless with Kiwi's act.

All the same restlessness we as fans have, they have but worse bc they are the ones who are battling in games, playing through their own nags and injuries and seeing Kiwi out there in the bench with an act laughing... :lol Dude doesn't laugh ever under normal circumstances. He's laughed and clapped more this season than he has in every one of the prior ones. It's all an act. It might even be infuriating as a teammate to see that.

Yeah, it was me but I was half-joking. AJ did, in fact, punch Malik Rose in the face during a locker room argument for what was apparently an argument on lack of hustle on Malik's part during a game. I take it AJ wouldn't react too kindly to Kawhi's act ALL season if given the opportunity to confront him in a players only meeting.

[dbreiden83080]

Who wins in this situation? I would say oOther big markets that want Kawhi and "suggest" media about Spurs-Kawhi's "issues".

"Rep is that he is soft" He had his injury in last playoffs, he played at MVP level through pain last playoffs. Sadly, his quad getting worse this season, instead of calling soft a player for being injured, I would support him.

"Not a leader" Kawhi has talked when he was in SA -and texted them when he was working in other cities- his teammates all year. Danny Green already said it.

Obviously, Kawhi talked more with the young guys than Manu/Parker but he stayed close to most his teammates.

Then the media was lying "Kawhi don't talk with his teammates", they had a "tense and emotional meeting"...

Do you remember last year the rumors about LMA? They were right. He wanted out, more touches, stats, whatever.

Tell me who Spurs' player denied it in public like Danny and Brandon did it now? Who Spurs' player was supporting him against rumors? No one, because they already knew something happened.

Two weeks ago Rudy said he supports Kawhi. Danny said Kawhi texted teammates all times. Brandon said media lied.

Like I've said before, people love drama, media is creating the drama. Not sure why it's so hard to believe that a player is just injured.

Not sure why there are so much people willing to believe that Kawhi would out/play in LA, I get it if this was a Lakers forum but Spurs fans?? For real? I find it just crazy.

If you want to be an all time great player, that takes sacrifice, and very often it means physical sacrifice. Playing through pain. Great players will play through issues like this no problem. KL is not. I have never heard of a player being cleared to play and just refusing to go. His whole team is calling him out and rightfully so. He is showing he is no leader.

[bklynspursfan]

Whatever happens, PATFO are going to have to change their approach one way or another. Hopefully Pop retires, but, they need to stop with the loyalty contracts. Stop with the baby rest. Stop with “corporate knowledge” signing of guys that can’t even help on the court. Stop with the old guys old guys old guys. Stop with the random benching of young players for months. Stop with determining a rookie will not participate in the playoffs before the season even starts. Stop sitting guys that are rolling to curb their stats. Stopping benching guys for sticking up for their teammates against an opponent.

Not saying theyre all going to get fixed, but some of those things are going to have to be addressed and changed. It’s actu creating a weird culture these days. Nobody wanted to come here before. Now they’re really not going to come here.

Certain approaches need to change yes, as the game grows and personalities change, there should be a certain level of adaptation all around.

But there hasn't been much baby rest this year. The team has been getting younger over the last few years, but you can bet there will always be some vets on the squad. Every legit contender has some, you aren't winning with all young guys.

And the loyalty contracts are a matter of opinion. Some fans hate them, some understand why. It's usually a give/take situation. They can see some guys who took less for the better of the team at one point, and be taken care of down the line. Fans may think it's silly, but I bet the players appreciate the hell out of it.

[UZER]

I agree with you 100% about what needs to happen. Unfortunately we are shackled with the disaster of last off-season. Plus, I do not believe that PATFO is capable of making any of those changes, anyway. In the poll/thread about siding with PATFO or Kawhi, I would choose the Spurs. Neither PATFO nor Kawhi is representing what is best for the franchise at this point.

Yup. That’s why I’ve been waiting for Pop and RC to walk away. Appreciate everything they’ve done, but it’s time to move on. I mean, Pop doesn’t even want to be on the coaching anymore.

[spurraider21]

Can't recall Kobe quitting on the Lakers after Raja Bell clothes lined him.
7V8ZukXsWmk


I can sight even more examples of dirty fouls happening to star players where their teammates didn't do anything. Just calling a spade for spade I believe that Kawhi's uncle has brainwashed him not to want to be in SA because his uncle has always wanted him in LA. I hope I'm wrong but I doubt it.
:lol kobe DID quit on the lakers (refused to shoot the ball in the 2nd half of a game 7)

and then after the next season he demanded a trade

[MoSpur02]

This is what I got when I talked to someone very close to the organization...Kawhi is an easily influenced person. Very shy and not very social. He's a very nice guy and has a hard time saying no to those close to him. His uncle means well and wants the best for Kawhi, but apparently has influenced him a lot this season for whatever reason and that caused the whole "second opinion" thing. I personally see nothing wrong with that, but at the same time it as caused some damage to the relationship between the Spurs and Kawhi.

The Spurs were looking into to trading him at the deadline, but decided not to for whatever reason, but they did have the green light to pull off a trade. Of course Kawhi's uncle is going to deny it because that would make Kawhi look like the "bad guy." The Spurs have held out hope that he would have returned, but apparently Kawhi's doctors have not cleared him for whatever reason. This is not going to end well in my opinion even though I am holding out hope. If Aldridge can be talked into staying then I have hope Kawhi and the Spurs can fix this broken relationship. I'm not sure that will happen though.

My opinion is that if he does indeed comeback and the Spurs make a strong push in the playoffs that things will get better between the Spurs and Kawhi. To me winning fixes a lot of things.

[daslicer]

:lol kobe DID quit on the lakers (refused to shoot the ball in the 2nd half of a game 7)

and then after the next season he demanded a trade

Yes I remember that I should have been more clear and said he didn't sit out games. He demanded a trade but I don't recall him not playing in games.

[daslicer]

This is what I got when I talked to someone very close to the organization...Kawhi is an easily influenced person. Very shy and not very social. He's a very nice guy and has a hard time saying no to those close to him. His uncle means well and wants the best for Kawhi, but apparently has influenced him a lot this season for whatever reason and that caused the whole "second opinion" thing. I personally see nothing wrong with that, but at the same time it as caused some damage to the relationship between the Spurs and Kawhi.

The Spurs were looking into to trading him at the deadline, but decided not to for whatever reason, but they did have the green light to pull off a trade. Of course Kawhi's uncle is going to deny it because that would make Kawhi look like the "bad guy." The Spurs have held out hope that he would have returned, but apparently Kawhi's doctors have not cleared him for whatever reason. This is not going to end well in my opinion even though I am holding out hope. If Aldridge can be talked into staying then I have hope Kawhi and the Spurs can fix this broken relationship. I'm not sure that will happen though.

My opinion is that if he does indeed comeback and the Spurs make a strong push in the playoffs that things will get better between the Spurs and Kawhi. To me winning fixes a lot of things.

His uncle means best for himself. His uncle reminds me of that loser parent that lives vicariously through his more talented and successful kid. I'm sure if his uncle was a player LA would be his number 1 choice and hence him projecting his own dreams on Kawhi.

[cd021]

In terms of Xs and Os, you are better than Pop! But I still have my doubts about the locker room. If you were going to build an NBA team, would you want your two statistical leaders to be extreme introverts in the locker room? In a locker room without any other strong leadership? That's what I mean by not meshing well - not conflict, but total lack of interaction.

I don't know if LA is a traditional leader but he does seem to have good relationships with the likes of Anderson, Murray and Green - all of whom have nothing but great things to about him.

Being the best player and also being well respected and liked by your teammates is something, It beats having to have an impromptu meeting with Kawhi just to try and get a idea of when he might return.

[SpursBig3s]

Well that was debunked in 1 second. :lol

And trying to grow a brand without actually "branding" is counter intuitive. That doesn't sound like Kawhi. :lol

I didn’t say I believed him. I’m just relaying what was said to me

[SAGirl]

977319545428959233
977319876376309760

[Russ]

Well that plan is weird seeing as if Kawhi signs the DPE this Summer it will be 2 years before he can be traded.

If the Spurs really wanna punish Kawhi they can just decline to offer him the Super-Max.

Kawhi won't be ablle to requalify for it anytime soon, if ever.

[r0drig0lac]

977319545428959233
977319876376309760

Pop (and anyone with common sense) understands the situation

[Nathan89]

977319545428959233
977319876376309760

That doesn't fit the narrative.

[Keepin' it real]

977319545428959233
977319876376309760

That's very Trump-ian of Pop. Deny everything.

[r0drig0lac]

...

[BD24]

Anyone see the interview with DG.

Basically said that what the media is reporting about the meeting is completely off.

[Brunodf]

977319545428959233
977319876376309760

Translation: it's Kawhi fault

[tholdren]

Pop (and anyone with common sense) understands the situation

Lol u dum

[Play Boban]

Anyone see the interview with DG.

Basically said that what the media is reporting about the meeting is completely off.
Danny Green has fallen out with the team. He’s gone. No surprise he’s trying to prop up the cancer.

[Keepin' it real]

Kawhi just called emergency team meeting after Jazz game. Quad suddenly feeling better.

[dbreiden83080]

:lol kobe DID quit on the lakers (refused to shoot the ball in the 2nd half of a game 7)

and then after the next season he demanded a trade

Kobe was a dick his entire career and I was never a fan. But nobody could ever question his heart and determination on the court. Or his willingness to play through pain. That is the issue we are having here.

[YGWHI]

Tony also putting a message out there that the med team can be trusted for future players who may come. Do the spurs want a reputation that they don’t take care of their players? That is how Kawhi is making it seem.

Kawhi is known in the league for his ethic work, every player in the league knows he's a gym rat...Those same players won't believe that Kawhi is faking an injury, they know he was a MVP candidate, news guys in the league say they want to be like them, he was 3rd NBA favorite player after Bron and Ruus between rookies this summer...

On other hand, those players don't know who exactly is/was Tony Parker, his prime's passed, he's a PG backup talking about MVP candidate...

I would say many young guys will believe Kawhi. Which could become an issue in the future like you said.



977254176676868097
977251396813709312

The only two persons I see are left caping for Quadhi are dabom and his personal butler YGWHI :lol ..

Whether on this forum or twitter, majority of people are starting to realize from where the bullshit is emanating. To varying degrees, most have turned on Leonard..

If only this trolls knows how to read... Moore read many of his followers in previous tweets questioned the Spurs about rushing an injured player and tweeted "I will say, everyone jumping up on the Spurs about “pressuring a player with injury”

[YGWHI]

If you want to be an all time great player, that takes sacrifice, and very often it means physical sacrifice. Playing through pain. Great players will play through issues like this no problem. KL is not. I have never heard of a player being cleared to play and just refusing to go. His whole team is calling him out and rightfully so. He is showing he is no leader.

You said his whole team is calling him out, I doubt it. In fact, there are guys supporting him in public, denying media reports.

About playing through injuries...IDK. I don't expect a young player ruin his career for just one year. It's not like the Spurs will play the Finals this season either. I mean, I wonder if it's worth playing him injured at this point of the season.

I guess we disagree about this, you said players should play through pain/injuries, I've said before -not just about Kawhi- it doesn't led to good things, that players should protect their bodies.

[$pursDynasty]

Do we see him at the next Spurs home game (OKC)? On the bench I mean I have given up hope for in his uniform. Is it over, over (Kiwi and the Spurs), or is this being overblown by the media and other teams in the league hopeingly trying to end the Spurs dynasty?

[2Cleva]

SJax just went in.


https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/978316199065919488

[djohn2oo8]

SJax just went in.


https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/978316199065919488

lol damn.

[Robz4000]

Nothing new here, Captain Jack has been taking shots at Pop/Tony/Manu for years. The salt is real.

[Proxy]

SJax just went in.


https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/978316199065919488

damnnnnnnnn

[TimDunkem]

Whatever the case is, no one involved is handling this situation well.

How the mighty have fallen.

[cjw]

Whatever the case is, no one involved is handling this situation well.

How the mighty have fallen.

Only LMA is handling it well. Saved any dignity the Spurs have left.

[daslicer]

SJax just went in.


https://twitter.com/TheHerd/status/978316199065919488

Summary of the interview just to save people time from watching this crap. Jax insulted Manu and Parker's manhood by saying they don't have the balls to confront people and that Pop told them to confront Kawhi. He also claims Parker cost the Spurs the WCF in '12 by not passing him the ball more. He says he has no respect for Parker anymore which is pretty stupid since he never had respect for Parker to begin with. This is equivalent to a democrat saying they have lost respect for Trump after the Stormy Daniels interview when we all know there was no respect to begin with. Jax is that jealous jilted bitter ex that never shuts the fuck up.

[Keepin' it real]

Summary of the interview just to save people time from watching this crap. Jax insulted Manu and Parker's manhood by saying they don't have the balls to confront people and that Pop told them to confront Kawhi. He also claims Parker cost the Spurs the WCF in '12 by not passing him the ball more. He says he has no respect for Parker anymore which is pretty stupid since he never had respect for Parker to begin with. This is equivalent to a democrat saying they have lost respect for Trump after the Stormy Daniels interview when we all know there was no respect to begin with. Jax is that jealous jilted bitter ex that never shuts the fuck up.

And Cowturd hates the Spurs, so he was glowing the whole time and thanked SJax for the great interview.

[BillMc]

And Cowturd hates the Spurs, so he was glowing the whole time and thanked SJax for the great interview.

And we hate Cowhurd back. Is there anyone more smug? Want to sock him in the face everytime he opens his mouth.

[MannyIsGod]

Oh SJax. The prodigal son that returned and fuck it all up. Sad.

[Hoops Czar]

Only LMA is handling it well. Saved any dignity the Spurs have left.

So we've had tweets from Green, Manu, Tony and Pop but nobody's posted any tweets of LMA's feelings on the situation. Surely, this has to be more than just an oversight by the media to completely ignore the only other all-star on the team....... or is it?

[cd98]

And we hate Cowhurd back. Is there anyone more smug? Want to sock him in the face everytime he opens his mouth.

Cowherd likes it because it's juicy and controversial, which helps him keep his listeners entertained. For him to call Tony and Manu cowards...that's must listen to radio for Cowherd. He probably has SJax booked again in two weeks. If he cared about getting the real story, he would've asked to interview Elliott or Bonner or Robinson, guys that are actually around the team and have a pulse. Tim would be in that group, but he'd never go on that show.

[BillMc]

Cowherd likes it because it's juicy and controversial, which helps him keep his listeners entertained. For him to call Tony and Manu cowards...that's must listen to radio for Cowherd. He probably has SJax booked again in two weeks. If he cared about getting the real story, he would've asked to interview Elliott or Bonner or Robinson, guys that are actually around the team and have a pulse. Tim would be in that group, but he'd never go on that show.

Agree 100 percent.

[dbreiden83080]

You said his whole team is calling him out, I doubt it. In fact, there are guys supporting him in public, denying media reports.

About playing through injuries...IDK. I don't expect a young player ruin his career for just one year. It's not like the Spurs will play the Finals this season either. I mean, I wonder if it's worth playing him injured at this point of the season.

I guess we disagree about this, you said players should play through pain/injuries, I've said before -not just about Kawhi- it doesn't led to good things, that players should protect their bodies.

He was cleared to play months ago and will not. Outside of finding out he has some degenerative issues with the quad in the off-season this is almost the point of no return. How do we or any team in the league trust this man ever again? He gets hurt, or says he is hurt, the team looks at him and says "You are fine" he says "No I am not" and they pay him 20 plus million bucks to sit out the season. That is what has happened, and it could easily happen again. A player does not keep sitting out this long when doctors say "You are fine". That is why his behavior has wrecked his value. What team would trust him not to pull this again? What GM would take the chance of paying him crazy money, only to refuse to play in spite of team doctors assuring him he can? He is fucked unless he plays out his deal and balls out all year long. People talking about him protecting some big pay day. Big pay day??? He just flushed a whole season over an issue every doctor has told him is nothing.. Spurs would be INSANE, to extend his deal after this shit.. INSANE!!

[KDKSpurs24]

He was cleared to play months ago and will not. Outside of finding out he has some degenerative issues with the quad in the off-season this is almost the point of no return. How do we or any team in the league trust this man ever again? He gets hurt, or says he is hurt, the team looks at him and says "You are fine" he says "No I am not" and they pay him 20 plus million bucks to sit out the season. That is what has happened, and it could easily happen again. A player does not keep sitting out this long when doctors say "You are fine". That is why his behavior has wrecked his value. What team would trust him not to pull this again? What GM would take the chance of paying him crazy money, only to refuse to play in spite of team doctors assuring him he can? He is fucked unless he plays out his deal and balls out all year long. People talking about him protecting some big pay day. Big pay day??? He just flushed a whole season over an issue every doctor has told him is nothing.. Spurs would be INSANE, to extend his deal after this shit.. INSANE!!
It’s like you clearly forgot that the dude came back and played after being cleared. He apparently didn’t feel right and stopped. It’s also like you either forgot or haven’t heard Pop recently say that his current doctors have not cleared him yet..

[dbreiden83080]

It’s like you clearly forgot that the dude came back and played after being cleared. He apparently didn’t feel right and stopped. It’s also like you either forgot or haven’t heard Pop recently say that his current doctors have not cleared him yet..

Pop if you were reading between the lines is clearly very pissed off about the situation. The whole team is pissed off. Tony Parker is flat out taking shots at the man. The team doctors cleared him like 15 times. He won’t play. There is no trust.

[YGWHI]

INSANE!!

It's insane thinking he's not injured/refusing to play for protecting his next contract/whatever...He already played this season and his quad wasn't fine.

If you ask me, I feel bad for Kawhi.

I truly believe he's injured. He lost a season where the Spurs could get NBA best record turning him into the favorite to win MVP, he lost everything, every NBA award, every All-NBA spot...

It's insane to think he fakes something to lose all those things.

It's also insane to think he deserves blame for getting a 2nd opinion. If his NYC doctors say he's not able to play yet, telling Pop that, I wouldn't blame him..It's his body and his career.

If you think no one -coach/gm- would want Kawhi on his team, you should wait until the offseason to know how wrong you're on this...

[r0drig0lac]

Pop if you were reading between the lines is clearly very pissed off about the situation. The whole team is pissed off. Tony Parker is flat out taking shots at the man. The team doctors cleared him like 15 times. He won’t play. There is no trust.

Pop made it clear that both he, Kawhi and everyone involved are upset about the situation, and that Kawhi wanted to be on the court

[KDKSpurs24]

Pop if you were reading between the lines is clearly very pissed off about the situation. The whole team is pissed off. Tony Parker is flat out taking shots at the man. The team doctors cleared him like 15 times. He won’t play. There is no trust.
Tony said a very similar comment months ago before Kawhi came back the first time and nobody cared because the drama had not escalated to what it is now.

[Down Under]

As I said previously, even though there's a lot on Kawhi for not communicating & the like, he was misdiagnosed in 2012 with tendinitis instead of tendinopathy & is extremely cautious that this could turn into a career changing injury.

[duncan2k5]

He has little trade value right now. This is what sucks. He has derailed his value. Rep is that he is soft, won't play though injury, not a leader. Nobody wants that.. Curry has sprained his bad ankles like 5 times this year. And he has had short rests and come back. KL would have been sitting out the whole year just with those sore ankles.

Kawhi played through a badly sprained ankle, after it was already badly sprained... Until it gon sprained a third time... The only ppl who thinks he is soft is spurs players... Literally every athlete asked about it sides with Kawhi... His former coach says he played through every injury... Only spurs fans think Kawhi is all of a sudden lying and purposefully ruining a full year if his prime and what would have been an MVP season for some strange reason

[duncan2k5]

LA passes all the time. WTF are you watching?

Also have you ever watched a broadcast where the ball won't go through the post for possession after possession and Sean Elliott will be imploring the players to get it into LA?? And as I recall he reminds the viewers that's the team's best chance of winning. I think he knows more than you.

Dude LA is a black hole... What are u talking about? When the ball goes to him, he rarely passes... There are times players are open under the basket off a double team and he shoots a fade away... But ok... Keep believing he is Duncan

[duncan2k5]

He was cleared to play months ago and will not. Outside of finding out he has some degenerative issues with the quad in the off-season this is almost the point of no return. How do we or any team in the league trust this man ever again? He gets hurt, or says he is hurt, the team looks at him and says "You are fine" he says "No I am not" and they pay him 20 plus million bucks to sit out the season. That is what has happened, and it could easily happen again. A player does not keep sitting out this long when doctors say "You are fine". That is why his behavior has wrecked his value. What team would trust him not to pull this again? What GM would take the chance of paying him crazy money, only to refuse to play in spite of team doctors assuring him he can? He is fucked unless he plays out his deal and balls out all year long. People talking about him protecting some big pay day. Big pay day??? He just flushed a whole season over an issue every doctor has told him is nothing.. Spurs would be INSANE, to extend his deal after this shit.. INSANE!!

You said it urself... It makes no sense he is doing this for a big pay day... So could it be possible that... Hmmm.... He is ACTUALLY HURT!?? smh... Who do you trust more? Your doctor? Or your body? If ur doctor tells you nothing is wrong, but you feel pain in the area... You're gonna think ur body is lying to you? Or that the doctor isn't perfect?

[BackHome]

You said it urself... It makes no sense he is doing this for a big pay day... So could it be possible that... Hmmm.... He is ACTUALLY HURT!?? smh... Who do you trust more? Your doctor? Or your body? If ur doctor tells you nothing is wrong, but you feel pain in the area... You're gonna think ur body is lying to you? Or that the doctor isn't perfect?

Either way it doesn’t matter he either has a chronic injury or he is a head case. Don’t want him and fine with trading him if we can get good value cause I don’t want to deal with Rose JR. Anymore.

[daslicer]

You said it urself... It makes no sense he is doing this for a big pay day... So could it be possible that... Hmmm.... He is ACTUALLY HURT!?? smh... Who do you trust more? Your doctor? Or your body? If ur doctor tells you nothing is wrong, but you feel pain in the area... You're gonna think ur body is lying to you? Or that the doctor isn't perfect?

Kawhi is the equivalent of that guy who gets into a car accident whose not at fault where the cause of the accident was through being rear ended. The accident is not serious but just some minor damage however the guy who was the victim of the accident claims to have back pain. The Doctor examines the victim and concludes there is no spinal damage or any broken bones but the patient still claims to have back pain. The patient on the other hand does not actually have any pain but is claiming to have actual pain because he knows he's going to get big pay day from the insurance company. This is how I view the Kawhi situation.

[Slippy]

Dude LA is a black hole... What are u talking about? When the ball goes to him, he rarely passes... There are times players are open under the basket off a double team and he shoots a fade away... But ok... Keep believing he is Duncan

Thought you only post facts. This isnt even close to how Lamarcus is dealing with double & triple teams at the latter part of this season . He & the team have become better at handling it. That includes the liability of DJ .

Its clear youve already got your mind made up about the
guy. & im starting wonder. Do you actually watch the games or just look stats only?

[San Antonio Slayer]

It's clear LA's fade away is a go-to-move just like bank shot was for Timmy. And it's also clear there is no need to argue who was a better passer. But Timmy had a much more skillfull teammates in terms of offense and there was no need for him to be the first scoring option. It's always been a signatured balanced offense. Current roster demands LA to be the first scoring option I don't think it's smart to pass the ball too much when you are supposed to carry such an offensive burden. The issue of not shooting the ball against doubleteams is not about LA too. I can't say he can't or doesn't pass when he gets doubled. Not a selfish player for sure.

[bklynspursfan]

It's insane thinking he's not injured/refusing to play for protecting his next contract/whatever...He already played this season and his quad wasn't fine.

If you ask me, I feel bad for Kawhi.

I truly believe he's injured. He lost a season where the Spurs could get NBA best record turning him into the favorite to win MVP, he lost everything, every NBA award, every All-NBA spot...

It's insane to think he fakes something to lose all those things.

It's also insane to think he deserves blame for getting a 2nd opinion. If his NYC doctors say he's not able to play yet, telling Pop that, I wouldn't blame him..It's his body and his career.

If you think no one -coach/gm- would want Kawhi on his team, you should wait until the offseason to know how wrong you're on this...

Personally, I have no issues with this. If he doesn't feel right he doesn't feel right.

My biggest thing is the not showing up for all games, or travelling with the team, and/or communicating with the team.

I know it's not his personality, and I respect that. It just feels like he could be doing a little more off the court while he's not on the court.

[duncan2k5]

Either way it doesn’t matter he either has a chronic injury or he is a head case. Don’t want him and fine with trading him if we can get good value cause I don’t want to deal with Rose JR. Anymore.

We didn't act like that when Duncan had planar fascitis... You guys just done like Kawhi... It's not about him actually being hurt... Because if any of our big 3 had a lingering injury, you all would give them the benefit of the doubt, and not want them to be gone from the team

[duncan2k5]

Kawhi is the equivalent of that guy who gets into a car accident whose not at fault where the cause of the accident was through being rear ended. The accident is not serious but just some minor damage however the guy who was the victim of the accident claims to have back pain. The Doctor examines the victim and concludes there is no spinal damage or any broken bones but the patient still claims to have back pain. The patient on the other hand does not actually have any pain but is claiming to have actual pain because he knows he's going to get big pay day from the insurance company. This is how I view the Kawhi situation.

False equivalency... Kawhi isn't gonna get pla big payday because he is injured... He would be getting one because of great play... There is no money move by sitting out an entire NBA season... This isn't football...

[duncan2k5]

Thought you only post facts. This isnt even close to how Lamarcus is dealing with double & triple teams at the latter part of this season . He & the team have become better at handling it. That includes the liability of DJ .

Its clear youve already got your mind made up about the
guy. & im starting wonder. Do you actually watch the games or just look stats only?

So you've never seen LMA look off open players when he gets the ball? If not, you must be LMA himself

[duncan2k5]

It's clear LA's fade away is a go-to-move just like bank shot was for Timmy. And it's also clear there is no need to argue who was a better passer. But Timmy had a much more skillfull teammates in terms of offense and there was no need for him to be the first scoring option. It's always been a signatured balanced offense. Current roster demands LA to be the first scoring option I don't think it's smart to pass the ball too much when you are supposed to carry such an offensive burden. The issue of not shooting the ball against doubleteams is not about LA too. I can't say he can't or doesn't pass when he gets doubled. Not a selfish player for sure.

How is he not selfish when he left Portland because of his touches, and demanded a trade because of his touches? You guys have a warped mentality... Kawhi is selfish for being hurt and wanting to be 100%, but LMA isn't selfish for wanting off the team after not voicing his concerns for an entire year, then demanding a trade (after bombing in the playoffs)

[duncan2k5]

Personally, I have no issues with this. If he doesn't feel right he doesn't feel right.

My biggest thing is the not showing up for all games, or travelling with the team, and/or communicating with the team.

I know it's not his personality, and I respect that. It just feels like he could be doing a little more off the court while he's not on the court.

He HAS been communicating with the team though... Is pop and Danny Green lying? U want him to tweet his teammates so you can see? And since when does injured spurs ALWAYS travel with the team? Pop himself has told injured players to stay home... U guys are putting an unfair standard on Kawhi that never existed with our other stars...

[YGWHI]

Personally, I have no issues with this. If he doesn't feel right he doesn't feel right.

My biggest thing is the not showing up for all games, or travelling with the team, and/or communicating with the team.

I know it's not his personality, and I respect that. It just feels like he could be doing a little more off the court while he's not on the court.

Kawhi has been in home games, he even sat on the floor to look those games. Also, most times Spurs players rehab in SA and don't travel with the team until there are very close to play which it's not Kawhi's case.

I doubt Kawhi didn't communicate with the team at all.
Some players already said he called and texted them, obviously those players weren't Parker/Manu, there is a whole generation issue there.

You can bet your life that JSimms Danny Brandon know who is Kawhi's favorite rapper/what's his favorite song this year, if you ask Manu he doesn't know anything about it. I mean, knowing a teammate musical taste isn't a thing but can explain the generational issue.

And Pop knows everything about Kawhi. He knew what's Kawhi was doing, where was training since he traveled with Spurs' personnel, he knew what his NYC doctors said because they told him Kawhi isn't ready to play...

When there is a communication problem it's not just about only one part. Both sides have to show interest in improving their communication.

[duncan2k5]

Kawhi has been in home games, he even sat on the floor to look those games. Also, most times Spurs players rehab in SA and don't travel with the team until there are very close to play which it's not Kawhi's case.

I doubt Kawhi didn't communicate with the team at all. Some players said he called and texted them, obviously those players weren't Parker/Manu, there is a whole generation issue there.
You can bet your life that JSimms Danny Brandon know who is Kawhi's favorite rapper/what's his favorite song this year, if you ask Manu he doesn't know anything about it. I mean, knowing a teammate musical taste isn't a big thing but can explain the generational issue.

And Pop knows everything about Kawhi. He knew what's Kawhi was doing, where was training since he traveled with Spurs' personnel, he knew what his NYC doctors said because they told him Kawhi isn't ready to play...

When there is a communication problem it's not just about only one part. Both sides have to show interest in improving their communication.

Voice of reason... Smh... I was beginning to think I was on an island by myself... No pun intended...

[YGWHI]

Voice of reason... Smh... I was beginning to think I was on an island by myself... No pun intended...
Don't worry, bro. You're not alone. Stay calm and positive on ST is hard...

[bklynspursfan]

He HAS been communicating with the team though... Is pop and Danny Green lying? U want him to tweet his teammates so you can see? And since when does injured spurs ALWAYS travel with the team? Pop himself has told injured players to stay home... U guys are putting an unfair standard on Kawhi that never existed with our other stars...

It's possible maybe he's only communicating with guys he's close with , no? Idk.. Injured guys have also travelled with the team. It's not an unfair standard. He's doing 4 on 4 drills and what not, but there are still games he's not on the bench with the guys.

Im not anti-Kawhi, I just think there are things he can do to help the situation. Green and Pop have said stuff, but you can't believe there isn't genuine confusion collectively in that locker room

[bklynspursfan]

Kawhi has been in home games, he even sat on the floor to look those games. Also, most times Spurs players rehab in SA and don't travel with the team until there are very close to play which it's not Kawhi's case.

I doubt Kawhi didn't communicate with the team at all.
Some players already said he called and texted them, obviously those players weren't Parker/Manu, there is a whole generation issue there.

You can bet your life that JSimms Danny Brandon know who is Kawhi's favorite rapper/what's his favorite song this year, if you ask Manu he doesn't know anything about it. I mean, knowing a teammate musical taste isn't a thing but can explain the generational issue.

And Pop knows everything about Kawhi. He knew what's Kawhi was doing, where was training since he traveled with Spurs' personnel, he knew what his NYC doctors said because they told him Kawhi isn't ready to play...

When there is a communication problem it's not just about only one part. Both sides have to show interest in improving their communication.

He's at some home games, yes. I know he missed the Warriors game cause his daughter was sick. But im pretty sure he was absent from the Jazz game. I think he was there for the Wizards game. It just seems sporadic.

I agree about the rest, but the team was obviously reeling at times and seemed legit confused on the whole situation. So even tho they share different musical interests and stuff, there could have been some clarity provided. It seems like they haven't had clarity until Pop said he'd be surprised if Kawhi was back at all, and he planted that seed for the team to let it go.

[San Antonio Slayer]

How is he not selfish when he left Portland because of his touches, and demanded a trade because of his touches? You guys have a warped mentality... Kawhi is selfish for being hurt and wanting to be 100%, but LMA isn't selfish for wanting off the team after not voicing his concerns for an entire year, then demanding a trade (after bombing in the playoffs)
I don't know what was the trade demand about exactly but all can see more LA's touches carry the team this year very well, especially with such a roster. We would be doomed if he got traded last summer. He is not a selfish player, I can't judge his selfishness as a person since I don't know him as a person. I support Kawhi to the hilt until he is a spur.

[SAGirl]

He's at some home games, yes. I know he missed the Warriors game cause his daughter was sick. But im pretty sure he was absent from the Jazz game. I think he was there for the Wizards game. It just seems sporadic.

I agree about the rest, but the team was obviously reeling at times and seemed legit confused on the whole situation. So even tho they share different musical interests and stuff, there could have been some clarity provided. It seems like they haven't had clarity until Pop said he'd be surprised if Kawhi was back at all, and he planted that seed for the team to let it go.
There’s also the fact that media leaks have been giving the impression Kawhi was returning for some past home games with dates and everything. Then it didn’t happen.

Manu said they were all under the impression he wasn’t going to play again this season based on the updates Pop gave them and the mentality Pop asked them to have. After that Kawhi gives a press interview, plus there are leaks with expected dates. By Manu’s admission, the media circus changed their mindsets and their impressions. They thought Kawhi was going to play again this season just like many fans believed.

So they met with Kiwi to ask him if he was indeed coming back, among perhaps other things they talked about. It wasn’t a confrontational meeting according to some of the players who talked about that meeting. Kawhi was clear he’s trying to play, but he’s not ready and he can’t give a definitive date he hopes to be back.

So you do the math, the season is almost over and he’s not nearly ready to play. That’s all teammates needed to know to be ready mentally themselves. Now any leaks don’t mean squat.

[daslicer]

False equivalency... Kawhi isn't gonna get pla big payday because he is injured... He would be getting one because of great play... There is no money move by sitting out an entire NBA season... This isn't football...

He's still going to get big pay day for not playing the whole entire year and he got free money this year for not playing whether it's from the Spurs or some other team. My point was when I used that example is that I believe he is faking his injury and nothing has changed my mindset about it.

[duncan2k5]

He's still going to get big pay day for not playing the whole entire year and he got free money this year for not playing whether it's from the Spurs or some other team. My point was when I used that example is that I believe he is faking his injury and nothing has changed my mindset about it.

He would have been guaranteed a bug payday if he played, AND also an mvp... Him being out canceled out the mvp, and puts the big payday at risk... He didn't do this on purpose, and he has never given any indication he would... LMA seems like the type... Not Kawhi... Kawhi is a basketball junkie that clearly wants to be great.... He isn't going to throw away an mvp and a year off his legacy unless it was legit

[daslicer]

He would have been guaranteed a bug payday if he played, AND also an mvp... Him being out canceled out the mvp, and puts the big payday at risk... He didn't do this on purpose, and he has never given any indication he would... LMA seems like the type... Not Kawhi... Kawhi is a basketball junkie that clearly wants to be great.... He isn't going to throw away an mvp and a year off his legacy unless it was legit

:lol Your right he wants to be great in LA. Yes he would throw away an MVP year if it could get him back home in LA.

[tholdren]

He would have been guaranteed a bug payday if he played, AND also an mvp... Him being out canceled out the mvp, and puts the big payday at risk... He didn't do this on purpose, and he has never given any indication he would... LMA seems like the type... Not Kawhi... Kawhi is a basketball junkie that clearly wants to be great.... He isn't going to throw away an mvp and a year off his legacy unless it was legit

Lololololololololokikoloooookiikioooo

[duncan2k5]

:lol Your right he wants to be great in LA. Yes he would throw away an MVP year if it could get him back home in LA.

This makes no sense... He could play and simply not resign... That would even be the better option if he wanted to play in LA... The guy even said he wants to stay here... He didn't do the usual "we'll see" bullcrap nba players do

[daslicer]

This makes no sense... He could play and simply not resign... That would even be the better option if he wanted to play in LA... The guy even said he wants to stay here... He didn't do the usual "we'll see" bullcrap nba players do

Durant said the same thing a few years ago when he was in OKC and we saw how things turned out.

[djohn2oo8]

976899794227617794
lol

[tholdren]

This makes no sense... He could play and simply not resign... That would even be the better option if he wanted to play in LA... The guy even said he wants to stay here... He didn't do the usual "we'll see" bullcrap nba players do

Racist post ban

[KDKSpurs24]

After seeing what Isaiah Thomas is going through, this should be very understandable. Even if you don’t think IT was going to receive a big contract, it is not false to say that he has forever lost a ton of money. Kawhi just doesn’t want that to be him. And over the past couple of days I’ve heard more things about Grant Hill and T-Macs stories of how they were misdiagnosed and played through pain so they wouldn’t be called soft only to have their careers ruined. So as long as Kawhi wants to be a Spur I would rather have his longevity rather than trying to ruin it by winning this year (which is still pretty unlikely with this current squad against the top teams this year).

Yes I wish he would have been more vocal about things and stepped up as a leader. However, after listening to a lot of former players I also agree that you don’t have to tell anyone about your injuries specifically. I also say that since Kawhi is introverted and not vocal anyways, we should have expected him to not be saying anything.

I stoll hope he can return this season but I just can’t blame him if he decides to try get back to 100% first. That’s a lot of money on the line for his generational wealth.

[YGWHI]

lol

There are a lot about this :lol

977571702380122117

976871823462883328

977798046347087872

[tholdren]

There are a lot about this :lol

977571702380122117

976871823462883328

977798046347087872

Posting teen tweets? Congrats

[SpurOutofTownFan]

It's hard to see Kawhi coming back from this really. By "this" I mean almost an entire season being gone and potential issues with teammates and the FO. Unless some major development occurs in the next few months, it looks more and more like the Spurs will try to trade him while he holds value and before the next contract and rebuild. Rebuild could be getting a max FA and then some.