Young: sources tell @ExpressNews that Kawhi Leonard wants to be traded from Spurs

[dbestpro]

That's what I thought but wasn't sure. Since he isn't getting the supermax from the Spurs, it's now figuring out the best salary+endorsement formula.

It becomes a sign and trade.

[Pavlov]

It becomes a sign and trade.I don't think there is as much advantage in that anymore as there used to be.

[baseline bum]

It becomes a sign and trade.


I don't think there is as much advantage in that anymore as there used to be.

There is no advantage whatsoever to sign and trades any more. Sign and trades are capped at 4 years and 4.5% raises just like outright free agent signings without any kind of Bird Rights.

[rjv]

I love it when posters project their biases on to NBA players.

Why of course these multimillionaire elite athletes would think just like I do!

[Hoops Czar]

I love it when posters project their biases on to NBA players.

Why of course these multimillionaire elite athletes would think just like I do!

My response to the Gasol contract...


Wait until RC hands out those new cookie contracts to Kyle and Tony next offseason. There won't be enough money leftover for a second star let alone a third. Maybe Leonard has already told the franchise He's moving on in 2019.

[tbdog]

Because this is the unofficial offseason thread - any news on Danny Green contract opt out clause?

[offset formation]

There was something about a no-trade clause, also, which the Spurs refused. Hell, the GSW refused to give one to Curry last summer. Who TF does Kawhi think he is?

He's not getting $213M. Only the Spurs could give it to him, and they won't. There is no trust left at all. The Spurs think it's a ploy to get the SuperMax, and THEN force a trade. The group thinks that without the no-trade clause the Spurs will trade him next summer, at first opportunity for a haul, since the SuperMax locks him in for 5 years.

Well before this nonsense, the Spurs would've NEVER traded that fool. So just going with the notion that an offer of a supermax was even offered, if they are afraid he will be dumped elsewhere, they shouldn't have let it get to this point.

[Hoops Czar]

There was something about a no-trade clause, also, which the Spurs refused. Hell, the GSW refused to give one to Curry last summer. Who TF does Kawhi think he is?

He's not getting $213M. Only the Spurs could give it to him, and they won't. There is no trust left at all. The Spurs think it's a ploy to get the SuperMax, and THEN force a trade. The group thinks that without the no-trade clause the Spurs will trade him next summer, at first opportunity for a haul, since the SuperMax locks him in for 5 years.

They don't or Kawhi doesn't want it?

[offset formation]

He has $79M reasons to sign the DPE or super max (the amount he'd lose if he's traded, but not to L.A., then signs their in '19). He's also in the process of having houses built in San Antonio for his mom and him and we don't know how recently he told Green, his closest confidant on the team, he'd prefer to stay, but he apparently did so. It also echoes what his sister said around that time. Both basically hinted that he'd do so if offered the DPE or super max.

Up until his representation leaking his supposed trade request to the media last Friday, there was also a sense from multiple reports, that things were inching towards reconciliation. The request came after the Wojnarowski story came out about the Spurs' unwillingness to immediately offer it.

The only way to make sense of all this, is that it's a leverage play.

I keep seeing this claim. Is this just an unsubstantiated rumor that has legs because Spurfan wants it to be true or is there actual saucery for it.

[SpursDynasty85]

I keep seeing this claim. Is this just an unsubstantiated rumor that has legs because Spurfan wants it to be true or is there actual saucery for it.

Houses that are contracted to be built could have been made 12 months before ground ever breaks. Texas home market is hot right now meaning it won't be a problem to sell it more than likely or he probably put a 25k to 50k security deposit on it of he decided not to buy it when it finishes (chump change). All this tension and going back and forth pretty much signals a break up is my guess. The reconciliation rumor had a lot weaker legs than this latest one.

[Pavlov]

My response to the Gasol contract...Yes, your projection is consistent.

[offset formation]

Mills and Gasol contracts
BP3 and Laughverne replacing two rotation players in Simmons and Dedmon
destroying the cap for the next three years eating into Kawhi's prime
resting key players in meaningful games against elite competition because Pop is afraid to show his hand and he wants to prove to the networks who's running the show.
Pop lauding his opponents to death with poor jokes and childish behavior every time he gets thoroughly out coached.


Other than that, not much.

:lmao:rollin:lmao:rollin:rollin

[offset formation]

Rudy Gay is only here because he was coming off a career threatening injury.

Players are cool with other players making money so long as they stay a contender. If you were in a dead end job with low pay and minimal chance for advancement but were offered a better job with roughly the same pay but with more flexibility and many chances of advancement, would you stay in your dead end job?

Pop coaches like he doesn't give a shit half the time. You don't that attitude eventually rubs off onto the players?

You know I was just thinking to myself the other day, if there's one attribute about Pop's coaching style that is most evident, it's that he just doesn't give a shit. I mean, when is the last time you saw that guy get in someone's face, or call a timeout to bench a player for a missed defensive assignment within the first minute of a game?

I swear, that guy just checked the eff out...amirite?

[weebo]

I can't wait to get this chicken shit off the Spurs

[offset formation]

Houses that are contracted to be built could have been made 12 months before ground ever breaks. Texas home market is hot right now meaning it won't be a problem to sell it more than likely or he probably put a 25k to 50k security deposit on it of he decided not to buy it when it finishes (chump change). All this tension and going back and forth pretty much signals a break up is my guess. The reconciliation rumor had a lot weaker legs than this latest one.

Right. But is there actual saucery that he or she or both are building new houses? I see this everywhere...here, reddit, twitter, etc. Yet I've never seen anyone sauce it to anyone other than some SA sportstalk show host.

I call BS.

[spurschamps99030507]

New story: The Cavs are not actively shopping Kevin Love heading into Thursday’s draft, multiple sources tell ESPN

CLEVELAND -- The Cavaliers (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/cle/cleveland-cavaliers) are not actively shopping All-Star forward Kevin Love (http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3449/kevin-love) heading into Thursday's NBA draft, multiple sources told ESPN on Wednesday. Furthermore, regardless of what decision LeBron James (http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/1966/lebron-james) makes about his future in Cleveland, the Cavs have interest in keeping Love next season, sources said.
Love, who will turn 30 in September, averaged 17.6 points on 45.8 percent shooting (41.5 percent from 3) and 9.3 rebounds in 59 games during the regular season for the Cavs, missing a chunk of time with a hand injury.
His numbers dipped in the postseason to 14.9 points on 39.2 percent shooting (34 percent from 3) and 10.2 rebounds, as Cleveland advanced to the NBA Finals for the fourth consecutive year.

Heading into the playoffs, Love -- who was offered to the Indiana Pacers (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ind/indiana-pacers) in a trade for Paul George (http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4251/paul-george) last June -- acknowledged that it could be his last go-round with the team that traded its No. 1 pick, Andrew Wiggins (http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3059319/andrew-wiggins), to the Minnesota Timberwolves (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/min/minnesota-timberwolves) for him in 2014, ushering in the most successful era in team history.
It could be my last run, too, so you just never know," Love told ESPN in April. "The unknown is something that you try to just put out of your hands for a certain amount of time. But, just go out there and lose yourself in it and everything will fall where it needs to."
Cleveland, owners of the No. 8 pick in the draft, will make the selection without knowing James' intention for next season, multiple sources told ESPN. James is currently on vacation with his family, sources said.

The Cavs are entering into the draft with the intention of making a selection that they will keep on their team next season. There is interest in finding a young playmaker to add to their veteran core and Cleveland believes it will have the opportunity to choose from an available player pool that will include the likes Collin Sexton (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80505), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80534), Trae Young (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80538), Michael Porter Jr. (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80492), Kevin Knox (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80507), Mikal Bridges (http://insider.espn.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?draftyear=2010&playerId=80347), and others.

Cleveland has made a call to inquire about the availability of San Antonio Spurs (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs)forward Kawhi Leonard (http://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/6450/kawhi-leonard), but the franchise does not believe it has the realistic assets to convince the Spurs to deal them the former Finals MVP considering what other teams on the market can offer.
After the Cavs' Game 4 loss to the Golden State Warriors (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/gs/golden-state-warriors) in the Finals, Love addressed the uncertainty surrounding his and James' futures with the team.
"Obviously, I'd love to play with LeBron the rest of my career, but that will be a choice that he makes," Love said.
He was then asked if he thought the Finals sweep could end up being his last game in a Cleveland uniform.

"Anything is possible," Love said. "People have been saying that for the past four years. I knew that question would come. But I like to be here. I've always said that. Always wanted to win here."
Love has two years remaining on his contract with the Cavs worth approximately $49.6 million, however he has a player option for the final year of the deal in the 2019-20 season.

http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23856392/cleveland-cavaliers-covet-kevin-love-next-season (https://bit.ly/2K2X6Gw?cc=0b7df22d724104355a0d9c70f82c5c5a)

[Hoops Czar]

You know I was just thinking to myself the other day, if there's one attribute about Pop's coaching style that is most evident, it's that he just doesn't give a shit. I mean, when is the last time you saw that guy get in someone's face, or call a timeout to bench a player for a missed defensive assignment within the first minute of a game?

I swear, that guy just checked the eff out...amirite?
Well, he did send home Murray from Summer league for reasons unbeknown when he was in desperate need of development. Then he played him almost 22 Minutes a game during the regular season and another 19 minutes per during the playoffs. That's what you call some serious ass backward punishment that punished the team more than it did Murray. So there's that!

[bklynspursfan]

Mills and Gasol contracts
BP3 and Laughverne replacing two rotation players in Simmons and Dedmon
destroying the cap for the next three years eating into Kawhi's prime
resting key players in meaningful games against elite competition because Pop is afraid to show his hand and he wants to prove to the networks who's running the show.
Pop lauding his opponents to death with poor jokes and childish behavior every time he gets thoroughly out coached.


Other than that, not much.

Pop resting guys is new? Not quite...

And what you call "childish behavior", is also not new. So no those haven't changed.

Mills/Pau, it's been beaten to death the purpose behind them, yet many still don't get it.

So really the only thing that changed is Simmons/Dedmon leaving, both moves those guys chose to make

[Hoops Czar]

Pop resting guys is new? Not quite...

And what you call "childish behavior", is also not new. So no those haven't changed.

Mills/Pau, it's been beaten to death the purpose behind them, yet many still don't get it.

So really the only thing that changed is Simmons/Dedmon leaving, both moves those guys chose to make

Yes, two more guys who chose not to play for the Spurs. I suppose you could say that's not new either.

But please, enlighten me as to the purpose behind the Mills/Pau signings. You're right, I don't get it.

[bklynspursfan]

Yes, two more guys who chose not to play for the Spurs. I suppose you could say that's not new either.

But please, enlighten me as to the purpose behind the Mills/Pau signings. You're right, I don't get it.

I mean Pau opted out to give us flexibility in FA right. Once they struck out in FA, he got similar $, but spread out.

Patty would've likely gotten this deal after the finals , but had the shoulder injury (which he played thru in the finals) so he took less, when surely someone could've given him more after his hot shooting. This was more of a payback situation. It wouldn't have been fussed about as much if he didn't have such a down year shooting.

[spurraider21]

I mean Pau opted out to give us flexibility in FA right. Once they struck out in FA, he got similar $, but spread out.

Patty would've likely gotten this deal after the finals , but had the shoulder injury (which he played thru in the finals) so he took less, when surely someone could've given him more after his hot shooting. This was more of a payback situation. It wouldn't have been fussed about as much if he didn't have such a down year shooting.
yeah, pau opted out to give "flexibility" so PATFO could fit their legs behind their head as he fucked them for 3/48

[SpursDynasty85]

yeah, pau opted out to give "flexibility" so PATFO could fit their legs behind their head as he fucked them for 3/48

Yep. Should've used that money on dedmon and Simmons instead.

[bklynspursfan]

yeah, pau opted out to give "flexibility" so PATFO could fit their legs behind their head as he fucked them for 3/48

Had CP0 came, it would've been worth it. I don't agree with it necessarily, but whatever

[bklynspursfan]

Yep. Should've used that money on dedmon and Simmons instead.

Can't use it on guys who want to leave

[Leetonidas]

This faggot still hasnt been traded yet? Get this autistic bum tf off my team already

[noles1983]

Hoping simple jack is traded tomorrow night

[SpursDynasty85]

Can't use it on guys who want to leave

They wanted to leave because Spurs had no interest in them.

[Mugen]

yeah, pau opted out to give "flexibility" so PATFO could fit their legs behind their head as he fucked them for 3/48

:lol

[bklynspursfan]

They wanted to leave because Spurs had no interest in them.


``I actually think I struggled in the Spurs system because I was like this (in and out) all of the time,” Simmons, 28, said recently, referring to the 14.8 and 17.9 minutes a game he played in two seasons in San Antonio. ``Pop always wants you to slow down and learn a lot of things and that’s was great for me because I learned a lot. But now I think it’s time to release the animal inside of me.’’

. . .

``Pop understood that and I explained that to him,’’ added Simmons, referring to his desire for a bigger role on the team. ``I told him that I just couldn’t play at the highest level that I wanted to there (in San Antonio). I want to become great and play against those elite guys every night myself. He tipped his hat to me and told me if I ever needed anything else from him he’d be there for me. We still have a great relationship and I’m looking forward to seeing him.’’

Wasn't a $ thing tho

[offset formation]

I mean Pau opted out to give us flexibility in FA right. Once they struck out in FA, he got similar $, but spread out.

Patty would've likely gotten this deal after the finals , but had the shoulder injury (which he played thru in the finals) so he took less, when surely someone could've given him more after his hot shooting. This was more of a payback situation. It wouldn't have been fussed about as much if he didn't have such a down year shooting.

And yet he was still out **second** leading scorer (thanks to Kawhitter). At $12.5M/year. That's a fucking steal. He is not a bad contract.

[Hoops Czar]

I mean Pau opted out to give us flexibility in FA right. Once they struck out in FA, he got similar $, but spread out.

Patty would've likely gotten this deal after the finals , but had the shoulder injury (which he played thru in the finals) so he took less, when surely someone could've given him more after his hot shooting. This was more of a payback situation. It wouldn't have been fussed about as much if he didn't have such a down year shooting.

Gasol got similar money spread out? Similar money spread out is like 5.3M over three years instead of 48M over three years which is more like two years on top of his original contract. The Spurs would have had more flexibility if he would have opted in for his final season. The CP3 ghost chase wasn't happening and just about everyone knew that except the Patfo.

Mills hasn't been halfway decent since the 2014 season and prior to his shoulder surgery. I don't think it's a foregone conclusion he sees 12M/year. I think most teams see him as a shooter, not a hybrid point guard and he hasn't been particularly good at either in three seasons.

[Spur|n|Austin]

:tu

Yeah, if the potential return in a trade is shit because Leonard has destroyed his trade value then force him to play out his contract and then walk in free agency without the financial benefit of a sign and trade.

If he doesn't show or claims another dubious injury then suspend without pay.

I don't think this is going to go how Leonard's group thought it would.

Yep agreed.

There's no need for our FO to fold bc Kawhi doesn't want to be here. After 1 year of robbing the franchise, another year of him faking an injury would surely = suspension, especially after the 100% health claims. Uncle Dennis the Menace could potentially be royally fucking his nephew.

[SpursDynasty85]

Wasn't a $ thing tho

I do recall reading that before but it seemed to me Spurs never really showed enough interest. From that article it looks like Popovich didnt even try to convince him but who knows.

[bklynspursfan]

Gasol got similar money spread out? Similar money spread out is like 5.3M over three years instead of 48M over three years which is more like two years on top of his original contract. The Spurs would have had more flexibility if he would have opted in for his final season. The CP3 ghost chase wasn't happening and just about everyone knew that except the Patfo.

Mills hasn't been halfway decent since the 2014 season and prior to his shoulder surgery. I don't think it's a foregone conclusion he sees 12M/year. I think most teams see him as a shooter, not a hybrid point guard and he hasn't been particularly good at either in three seasons.

I worded the Pau thing wrong, but I'm sure there was some handshake deal in place where they would take care of him if he agreed to opt out. They had $$ left and FAs were already off the table, Simmons left, etc...

Re: Patty, I meant after the 2014 finals he could have gotten more elsewhere, but he signed with us at 3 years/12 million, which was a really good value after he just performed how he did. I think even with the shoulder injury, he could've gotten more.

[Uriel]

Leonard's camp has played almost all their cards. The last would be leaking that he won't play for any team next season other than the Lakers. At which point the Spurs say thanks, we're not paying you and not trading you to the Lakers.
They already played that card. From Woj:


Leonard wants a trade to Los Angeles, preferably the Lakers (http://kwese.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/lal/los-angeles-lakers) over the Clippers (http://kwese.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/lac/la-clippers), league sources said. He has privately maintained that he no longer wants to play in San Antonio and will eventually alert rival teams considering trades for him that his intention is to sign in Los Angeles when he can become a free agent in 2019, league sources said.
http://kwese.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23846966/gregg-popovich-meets-kawhi-leonard-california

[SpursDynasty85]

I worded the Pau thing wrong, but I'm sure there was some handshake deal in place where they would take care of him if he agreed to opt out. They had $$ left and FAs were already off the table, Simmons left, etc...

Re: Patty, I meant after the 2014 finals he could have gotten more elsewhere, but he signed with us at 3 years/12 million, which was a really good value after he just performed how he did. I think even with the shoulder injury, he could've gotten more.

Still he shopped found a deal and the Spurs matched. I dont think the Spurs should've matched. TP's injury is probably what forced their hand because DJ was not ready and Simmons left. Should've resigned Simmons and given him Mill's minutes.

[testies]

Has this been posted here?

Zach Lowe says Cavs offered Love and 8 pick.

Id do it in a heartbeat. Kawhi will freeze his ass in cavs for 1 year and we get a high pick and kevin love with like 3 more good years

[spursistan]

Don Harris makes a good point; the Spurs are being ask to bend over backwards for someone who really hasn't proven that he is totally worth it..

He only has one single fuckin season as "THAT GUY" without even talking about health and other baggage..

1009484189962555394

[Marcus Bryant]

Has this been posted here?

Zach Lowe says Cavs offered Love and 8 pick.

Id do it in a heartbeat. Kawhi will freeze his ass in cavs for 1 year and we get a high pick and kevin love with like 3 more good years

Meh. Could fuck the Lakers if entices James to stay.

[ernest787]

I'd prefer to get a 3rd team involved on any Cleveland deal.

Cleveland gets Kawhi.
3rd team gets love.
Spurs get #8, another pick and a young player.

[rasuo214]

Maybe Pop should call Lebron and figure out which teams he's willing to go to and trade Kawhi to one of those teams. They can completely screw over the Lakers. No Kawhi, No Lebron and probably no PG.

[Ron Swanson]

BREAKING:

1009585171073589248

[BatManu20]

1009562757950201861

[r0drig0lac]

Don Harris makes a good point; the Spurs are being ask to bend over backwards for someone who really hasn't proven that he is totally worth it..

He only has one single fuckin season as "THAT GUY" without even talking about health and other baggage..

1009484189962555394
lmao AD, and Durant would have exactly 0 rings and 0 fmvp if it did not run to Dray in gsw

[r0drig0lac]

BREAKING:

1009585171073589248

Gallo to the spurs?

[Dex]

BREAKING:

1009585171073589248

This motherfucker isn't even trying to disguise his shade at San Antonio at this point.

FWIW Big Lou's is the obvious choice.

[cd98]

Jabari praying for trade so he can go work at the times and give Kawhi more fluff coverage.

[picnroll]

Why is this Jabari clown even covering the Spurs?

[ducks]

USA USA USA USA

[Spur|n|Austin]

If I had a gun with 2 bullets and was in a room with Hitler, Bin Laden, and Jabari..

[RD2191]

If I had a gun with 2 bullets and was in a room with Hitler, Bin Ladin, and Jabari...

You'd shoot jabari twice?

[picnroll]

If I had a gun with 2 bullets and was in a room with Hitler, Bin Laden, and Jabari..
Easy. Shoot Jabari twice.

[Spur|n|Austin]

You'd shoot jabari twice?

Easy. Shoot Jabari twice.
Pistol whip, then shoot twice.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

Who would buy Leonard house he is building in sa after all this

some republican

[spurs10]

Yep. And Uncle Dennis just cost his nephew $80 mil.


Yep agreed.

There's no need for our FO to fold bc Kawhi doesn't want to be here. After 1 year of robbing the franchise, another year of him faking an injury would surely = suspension, especially after the 100% health claims. Uncle Dennis the Menace could potentially be royally fucking his nephew. I think a lot of people feel this way and I'm thinking PATFO might feel the same way. They have no reason to fold.

[Leetonidas]

lmao AD, and Durant would have exactly 0 rings and 0 fmvp if it did not run to Dray in gsw

I assume his point is that those guys were clearly generational talents from the moment they stepped on an nba court, it was obvious they would be all time greats. Kawhi was a solid role player his first couple seasons but nowhere near the level of the first guys he mentioned. On top of that he's only been all nba twice and it's arguable that Durant should have been first team both years Leonard made it over him.

Kawhi is a great player but I think spurs fans have overrated him, myself included. To put him on the level of lebron or on the same tier with Durant and curry or AD was just homerism tbh.

[FkLA]

Don Harris makes a good point; the Spurs are being ask to bend over backwards for someone who really hasn't proven that he is totally worth it..

He only has one single fuckin season as "THAT GUY" without even talking about health and other baggage..

1009484189962555394

Don Harris is kind of an idiot though. His 16 PPG career average and the fact that he was a 15th pick really shouldn't matter if he's now a 25+ PPG guy and Top 3-4 player in the league.

[marinoman]

In all honesty tho I hope kawhi is okay. If what tp said crushed his feelings then taking away his zoo membership must’ve put him on suicide watch

[Joseph Kony]

its pretty obvious that Kawhi does not have the natural talent of the upper echelon players. he put in a lot work to get better for sure but we all know he would've just been a no one had he been drafted by some other team

[SpursDynasty85]

Don Harris is kind of an idiot though. His 16 PPG career average and the fact that he was a 15th pick really shouldn't matter if he's now a 25+ PPG guy and Top 3-4 player in the league.

Kind of true but also add the personality and this injury and only playing 9 games. This is the offseason you negotiate or talk about super max. But who knows, maybe Spurs never co sided actually the supermax. Fine with me. That super max is ridiculous.

[RD2191]

its pretty obvious that Kawhi does not have the natural talent of the upper echelon players. he put in a lot work to get better for sure but we all know he would've just been a no one had he been drafted by some other team

Bull :lol

[Play Boban]

Don Harris is kind of an idiot though. His 16 PPG career average and the fact that he was a 15th pick really shouldn't matter if he's now a 25+ PPG guy and Top 3-4 player in the league.
Yeah, but that’s NBA is riddled with above average players who had a 25 PPG season or two tbh.

[BillMc]

In all honesty tho I hope kawhi is okay. If what tp said crushed his feelings then taking away his zoo membership must’ve put him on suicide watch
:lmao

[r0drig0lac]

I assume his point is that those guys were clearly generational talents from the moment they stepped on an nba court, it was obvious they would be all time greats. Kawhi was a solid role player his first couple seasons but nowhere near the level of the first guys he mentioned. On top of that he's only been all nba twice and it's arguable that Durant should have been first team both years Leonard made it over him.

Kawhi is a great player but I think spurs fans have overrated him, myself included. To put him on the level of lebron or on the same tier with Durant and curry or AD was just homerism tbh.

respect, but I disagree with his assessment except Lebron, NO ONE in this group is a better player than Kawhi Leonard

Curry is not even in that conversation (he's the guy who most benefits from the amount of elite defenders on his team), he's the luckiest guy among the superstars

[baseline bum]

You'd shoot jabari twice?

Really? I'd shoot Hitler and make Jabari eat Osama's ass.

[Spur|n|Austin]

I assume his point is that those guys were clearly generational talents from the moment they stepped on an nba court, it was obvious they would be all time greats. Kawhi was a solid role player his first couple seasons but nowhere near the level of the first guys he mentioned. On top of that he's only been all nba twice and it's arguable that Durant should have been first team both years Leonard made it over him.

Kawhi is a great player but I think spurs fans have overrated him, myself included. To put him on the level of lebron or on the same tier with Durant and curry or AD was just homerism tbh.

But it's not just Spurs fans, the media and other team's fans agree. When healthy, Kawhi is a top 5 player. Easily.

[Spurs9]

1009562757950201861

:wow

[Spur|n|Austin]

its pretty obvious that Kawhi does not have the natural talent of the upper echelon players. he put in a lot work to get better for sure but we all know he would've just been a no one had he been drafted by some other team

It'd be interesting to see if he declines at all not being coached and trained by the top organization.

[Spurs da champs]

its pretty obvious that Kawhi does not have the natural talent of the upper echelon players. he put in a lot work to get better for sure but we all know he would've just been a no one had he been drafted by some other team

That might be true, regardless he is easily top 3 and 2nd best when healthy.

[Spurs9]

[Lowe] The Cavs have offered Kevin Love and the No. 8 pick for Kawhi, the Grizzlies with No. 4 and Chandler Parsons, the Clippers with Tobias Harris and Nos. 12 and 13

Love deal wouldn't be so bad if they could add in something like Nance Jr. Thats a pretty solid roster with Love, LMA, Murrary, 8th/18th pick.

[Joseph Kony]

i disagree. and im not gonna lie, im probably being blinded by saltiness, but imo LeBron/Durant/Curry/Davis are clearly better players than Kawhi. we've barely seen the guy play and he was only really the man for 1 season on a good team. let's see how he fares if he gets traded to LA and George/Bron don't come and he misses the playoffs next year :lol

[tbdog]

I assume his point is that those guys were clearly generational talents from the moment they stepped on an nba court, it was obvious they would be all time greats. Kawhi was a solid role player his first couple seasons but nowhere near the level of the first guys he mentioned. On top of that he's only been all nba twice and it's arguable that Durant should have been first team both years Leonard made it over him.

Kawhi is a great player but I think spurs fans have overrated him, myself included. To put him on the level of lebron or on the same tier with Durant and curry or AD was just homerism tbh.

Leonard was by in large the best player last playoffs. He is by in large the best wing defender in the league. Finals MVP. Clutch as fuck. 25ppg. Nearly a 50/40/90 guy. Here is a top 5 player. He isn't Lebron. That is one in a generation and one of the goats. But he can slay the king. And has.

[Spurs da champs]

AD is mad overrated. He was getting bullied by Gaymond. :lol Durant vs Kawhi is debatable. I mean we all saw what was happening before Zaza killed the Spurs.

[Joseph Kony]

Leonard was by in large the best player last playoffs. He is by in large the best wing defender in the league. Finals MVP. Clutch as fuck. 25ppg. Nearly a 50/40/90 guy. Here is a top 5 player. He isn't Lebron. That is one in a generation and one of the goats. But he can slay the king. And has.

He really wasnt....he certainly wasnt better than LBJ or Durant. And he went up against and dominated a fucking garbage Grizzlies team and his scoring actually went down against a shit defense in Houston. He had some amazing games and was definitely a top 3 player but he certainly wasnt the best :lol

[Spurs9]

Do you guys think LMA is being actively shopped too?

[Mr. Body]

I'd do the Cleveland deal. Fuck the Lakers and let Kawhi start breaking down in the Mistake by the Lake.

[SpursDynasty85]

He really wasnt....he certainly wasnt better than LBJ or Durant. And he went up against and dominated a fucking garbage Grizzlies team and his scoring actually went down against a shit defense in Houston. He had some amazing games and was definitely a top 3 player but he certainly wasnt the best :lol

It's what makes this so sad. Those expectations were shattered because of ZaZa and this past season. He certainly looked to be top 3 and is younger than KD and Lebron and was oddly getting better every single game it seemed like. Pattern seemed to show he was going to be the best player this season but we never got to see it.

[tbdog]

[Lowe] The Cavs have offered Kevin Love and the No. 8 pick for Kawhi, the Grizzlies with No. 4 and Chandler Parsons, the Clippers with Tobias Harris and Nos. 12 and 13

Love deal wouldn't be so bad if they could add in something like Nance Jr. Thats a pretty solid roster with Love, LMA, Murrary, 8th/18th pick.

No. 8pick means little. Love is passed his prime. Rather get Ingam. He can easily be an allstar player and beyond. Has a bit of Leonard in his game too.

[r0drig0lac]

Leonard was by in large the best player last playoffs. He is by in large the best wing defender in the league. Finals MVP. Clutch as fuck. 25ppg. Nearly a 50/40/90 guy. Here is a top 5 player. He isn't Lebron. That is one in a generation and one of the goats. But he can slay the king. And has.
Kawhi is probably the best perimeter defender in the game's history (more steals than fouls without handcheking? wtf) and became pretty much a 25/6/4 guy in the 50/40/90 territory, that's the worst part of losing this guy

[Spurs4#5]

Do you guys think LMA is being actively shopped too?

I would be shopping Aldridge regardless of the kawhi situation. His value won’t be as high again coming off a big season especially if someway kawhi stays

[baseline bum]

No. 8pick means little. Love is passed his prime. Rather get Ingam. He can easily be an allstar player and beyond. Has a bit of Leonard in his game too.

Yeah the bit about missing a lot of games with injury.

[Joseph Kony]

I'd do the Cleveland deal. Fuck the Lakers and let Kawhi start breaking down in the Mistake by the Lake.

its tempting because it may keep Lebron in Cleveland and LA would only end up with PG this season :lol

[99 Problems]

Lou Williams 31 years old, destined to be a good player on a bad team, or a bench player. Harris is 25 and still has the potential with good coaching to be a top 10 player.

He’s a good player for sure, I really like him. Could he arrive here and take another leap like Dipo did this season. Who says he couldn’t? He’s a year younger than Dipo and put him in the Spurs system?

[Joseph Kony]

any team the spurs trade with, spurs NEED to make them take Gasol or Mills back or it aint worth it

[RD2191]

Fuck, this sucks. Bunch of trash players we'd get in return. :pctoss

[tbdog]

Gasol is essentially an expiring next season. We are are retooling and not contending next season. So who cares if Gasol is around for another year.

[ernest787]

I'd consider that Memphis trade if doncic is there at 4.

[sasaint]

any team the spurs trade with, spurs NEED to make them take Gasol or Mills back or it aint worth it

Gasol.

[sasaint]

its tempting because it may keep Lebron in Cleveland and LA would only end up with PG this season :lol

Regardless of which team they were to play for, it would be entertaining to see LeBron and Kawhi play together.

[sasaint]

I'd consider that Memphis trade if doncic is there at 4.

Bamba.

[sasaint]

I would be shopping Aldridge regardless of the kawhi situation. His value won’t be as high again coming off a big season especially if someway kawhi stays

:tu

I am of the opinion that "Pop" and "rebuild" don't really mix. But maybe... What if Pop got several young guys who could be coached up to play the beautiful game? Nah. I really can't imagine Pop in the midst of that kind of roster turnover.

[Lostwingman]

I'd consider that Memphis trade if doncic is there at 4.
It's possible, and I wouldn't throw fits if that was what ended up happening if Kawhi is deadset on getting to LA.

[HarlemHeat37]

The Kawhi that we last saw in the 2017 WCFs was unquestionably a top 3 player in the world(with LeBron and Durant), no denying it..who knows if he will still be the same player when he returns, but it sucks that the Spurs only got 1 truly great year out of him..

[Ginobilly]

Man lebron and kawhi in cleveland could def challenge the warriors:wow but i could see kawhi have an "injury" the moment lebron yells at him and he goes crying to his uncle in new york.

[FkLA]

Told you Don is a fucking retard...

1009604747127672832

:lol Booker

[Slippy]

The Kawhi that we last saw in the 2017 WCFs was unquestionably a top 3 player in the world(with LeBron and Durant), no denying it..who knows if he will still be the same player when he returns, but it sucks that the Spurs only got 1 truly great year out of him..

He wont be the same. The kawhi we saw in Jan was that of a 16ppp scorer who physically looked limited to his 2017 form.

[objective]

Told you Don is a fucking retard...

1009604747127672832

:lol Booker

Harris has always been a buffoon

Between him, McDougal, and Jabronie the San Antonio media is about as bad as it gets

[Spurs4#5]

:tu

I am of the opinion that "Pop" and "rebuild" don't really mix. But maybe... What if Pop got several young guys who could be coached up to play the beautiful game? Nah. I really can't imagine Pop in the midst of that kind of roster turnover.

When we beat the heat in 14 we didn’t have a clear cut superstar Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker already past their prime and kawhi still coming into his and that team beat a super team of James, wade, bosh and Allen. The point of the beautiful game was that it wasn’t iso ball dependent 1 or 2 players catching the ball. I’d be more inclined to think pop would much rather coach a team full of rookies/young players that have potential to thrive in a system rather than coach 2 but heads in Aldridge and kawhi. If we could haul in 4 solid player plus 3 solid pick for this year and next for Aldridge and Leonard I’d take action on betting the spurs to win the championship.

[objective]

The Kawhi that we last saw in the 2017 WCFs was unquestionably a top 3 player in the world(with LeBron and Durant), no denying it..who knows if he will still be the same player when he returns, but it sucks that the Spurs only got 1 truly great year out of him..

I think he's the same guy.

As rusty as he was, he still led the Spurs in advanced stats and in his last 3 games with supposedly crippling pain he averaged 4 steals a game.

He's fine.

[sasaint]

When we beat the heat in 14 we didn’t have a clear cut superstar Duncan, Ginobili, and Parker already past their prime and kawhi still coming into his and that team beat a super team of James, wade, bosh and Allen. The point of the beautiful game was that it wasn’t iso ball dependent 1 or 2 players catching the ball. I’d be more inclined to think pop would much rather coach a team full of rookies/young players that have potential to thrive in a system rather than coach 2 but heads in Aldridge and kawhi. If we could haul in 4 solid player plus 3 solid pick for this year and next for Aldridge and Leonard I’d take action on betting the spurs to win the championship.

As much as Pop might like to revive that kind of offense, I believe PATFO's aversion to roster turnover trumps that desire. I would love to see us dump both of those guys if it meant a return to the beautiful game, but that is a video game fantasy where Pop is concerned.

[RD2191]

Told you Don is a fucking retard...

1009604747127672832

:lol Booker

:lmao

[BillMc]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xb9HN7VxAjs

[Spurs4#5]

As much as Pop might like to revive that kind of offense, I believe PATFO's aversion to roster turnover trumps that desire. I would love to see us dump both of those guys if it meant a return to the beautiful game, but that is a video game fantasy where Pop is concerned.

We’d essentially be turning over our roster and changing philosophy on how we play if we get rid of the person the offense is centered around. Idk I think I’d be more excited with a young team that’s hungry rather than sending out the same crew plus kawhi with 219mil

[sasaint]

We’d essentially be turning over our roster and changing philosophy on how we play if we get rid of the person the offense is centered around. Idk I think I’d be more excited with a young team that’s hungry rather than sending out the same crew plus kawhi with 219mil

I, too, would like that. But we will get more of last season's LMA-centric ball. Our only real hope is that seeing his reason for coming here (to win a championship) has evaporated, LMA demands a trade and sticks to his guns this time.

[Spurs9]

I'd trade him for the Suns pick and Booker if the salaries worked in a heartbeat. Out of the most realistic trades, I still like anything around Ingram and Kuzma, not including whatever trades we don't know about. But if those offers are on the table I think they have to think about it seriously even putting working with LA aside.

[Spurs4#5]

I, too, would like that. But we will get more of last season's LMA-centric ball. Our only real hope is that seeing his reason for coming here (to win a championship) has evaporated, LMA demands a trade and sticks to his guns this time.

If we get rid of kawhi we get of Aldridge. Their would be no point in keeping him when he could net us nice young assets for his reasonable contract. It’ll for sure be interesting. But I’ve been saying if kawhi isn’t moved by tomorrow then I think he stays with spurs

[Spurs4#5]

I'd trade him for the Suns pick and Booker if the salaries worked in a heartbeat. Out of the most realistic trades, I still like anything around Ingram and Kuzma, not including whatever trades we don't know about. But if those offers are on the table I think they have to think about it seriously even putting working with LA aside.

We’d never get booker unless it was a sign and trade for kawhi and that’s not happening. But I personally love Ingram. He increased his number to 16pp 5rpg 4 apg. And he’s only 20 on his rookie contract. If you could get him kuzma and a high pick I’d take it. Ingram has shown improvement and I think is worth the gamble. Many here thought kawhi wasn’t worth the gamble and he turned out to be a hell of a player. I think the spurs could work wonders on him

[Thomas82]

I'd consider that Memphis trade if doncic is there at 4.

I would do it for Bamba.

[TD 21]

I keep seeing this claim. Is this just an unsubstantiated rumor that has legs because Spurfan wants it to be true or is there actual saucery for it.

I can't remember where I initially found the link, but it was from Russell Rush, of 96.1 NOW, on April 6th. The link now says "uh oh, that page is unavailable".

Either way, this is a player who relatively speaking, hasn't made that much money yet, just missed damn near a full season with a supposed injury and isn't marketable. That's ample reason to think he'd want the $79M he'd otherwise miss out on.

Spurs should be doing everything in their power to attempt to repair this enough to get him signed, because the second they do, the leverage pendulum swings in their direction. If they aren't able to truly reconcile over the next year, they'd have control of the process and be able to command max value in a trade.

[tholdren]

Told you Don is a fucking retard...

1009604747127672832

:lol Booker
The point is hes only worth what someone will pay. None of those teams giving up those players then kl isnt worth more than they are.

Its the same issue w pau. Hes supposedly worth his contract bc sa paid him... not that difficult

[cd98]

Look I don’t know if Kawhi is worth the supermax. I think no. But people talking like he isn’t a top 5 NBA player are funny. All these writers saying Kawhi isn’t worth even the meager asking prices are hilarious. I mean if you think he’s a quitter, ok. But no ones questioning the talent.

[tholdren]

Look I don’t know if Kawhi is worth the supermax. I think no. But people talking like he isn’t a top 5 NBA player are funny. All these writers saying Kawhi isn’t worth even the meager asking prices are hilarious. I mean if you think he’s a quitter, ok. But no ones questioning the talent.

What did he ever do to lead sa to a ring.... i will wait

[cd98]

What did he ever do to lead sa to a ring.... i will wait

Uh the finals MVP in 2014.

[FkLA]

The point is hes only worth what someone will pay. None of those teams giving up those players then kl isnt worth more than they are.

Its the same issue w pau. Hes supposedly worth his contract bc sa paid him... not that difficult

You can't allow the fact that he quit on the Spurs to cloud your judgement. If he was coming off a season similar to his 16-17 season you wouldn't even entertain the thought of trading him for any of those players except maybe Giannis and even that wouldn't be a no-brainer. There's a multitude of reasons why those teams wouldn't trade those guys for Kawhi (age, sentimental reasons, his willingness to commit long-term, etc) but none of them have to do with him being inferior.

And Booker shouldn't even be in the same sentence, Don is just a homer Suns fan.

[tholdren]

Uh the finals MVP in 2014.

Lol joking right, 3 other players had better stats than he did

[tholdren]

You can't allow the fact that he quit on the Spurs to cloud your judgement. If he was coming off a season similar to his 16-17 season you wouldn't even entertain the thought of trading him for any of those players except maybe Giannis and even that wouldn't be a no-brainer. There's a multitude of reasons why those teams wouldn't trade those guys for Kawhi (age, sentimental reasons, his willingness to commit long-term, etc) but none of them have to do with him being inferior.

And Booker shouldn't even be in the same sentence, Don is just a homer Suns fan.

But he didnt, so hes not worth that. Dont let his 1617 season cloud your judgment

[sasaint]

Look I don’t know if Kawhi is worth the supermax. I think no. But people talking like he isn’t a top 5 NBA player are funny. All these writers saying Kawhi isn’t worth even the meager asking prices are hilarious. I mean if you think he’s a quitter, ok. But no ones questioning the talent.

Kawhi would probably be worth the supermax in a big market. Whether he is on the "Spurs payroll" is questionable. I think the supermax is ironically the bane of small markets.

[MannyIsGod]

That Cleveland deal is fucking horrible. Would rather have the 12,13 and Harris by a long shot over the Cleveland deal and I don't even want that deal.

[sasaint]

Lol joking right, 3 other players had better stats than he did

Default MVP for his "coming out" on the big stage. We have all seen plenty of games/series (especially in football) where there were several good candidates and none really stood out, but one guy HAS to get the MVP. You could basically have put their names in a hat and pulled one out. That was 2014.

[Pavlov]

I don't want to drag this out. I'm cool with the Clippers deal or some other deal that nets a pick higher than 8.

[John B]

If Kawhi would commit long term, and shows 100% healthy during the season, heck all of those teams would trade for him. But not before, nope.

[sasaint]

That Cleveland deal is fucking horrible. Would rather have the 12,13 and Harris by a long shot over the Cleveland deal and I don't even want that deal.

If you don't like your prospects at 12, 13 and 18 you might package a couple and move up. Or package one with Mills and and get an asset, and package another with Pau and get another. Three firsts give you a lot of potential flexibility.

[BSfromTX]

You'd shoot jabari twice?

Tahts f’n funny

[BatManu20]

That Cleveland deal is fucking horrible. Would rather have the 12,13 and Harris by a long shot over the Cleveland deal and I don't even want that deal.


Agreed. Hell no to the CLE deal. Clippers offer still seems the best so far, and it's not even a good one. Unless the Lakers end up offering a King's ransom, I just don't see PATFO trading Kawhi to the enemy. Might have to settle for Jerry West's offer. Maybe get him to take on Patty's contract and give us Lou Williams too.

[Twisted_Dawg]

What is this Kawhi would have to waive his trade kicker bullshit Zach Lowe mentions?

http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23847072/zach-lowe-kawhi-leonard-jaylen-brown-celtics-spurs-trades

[sasaint]

Agreed. Hell no to the CLE deal. Clippers offer still seems the best so far, and it's not even a good one. Unless the Lakers end up offering a King's ransom, I just don't see PATFO trading Kawhi to the enemy. Might have to settle for Jerry West's offer. Maybe get him to take on Patty's contract and give us Lou Williams too.

I expect Kawhi to be a Spur after the hoopla of tomorrow night.

[tbdog]

Agreed. Hell no to the CLE deal. Clippers offer still seems the best so far, and it's not even a good one. Unless the Lakers end up offering a King's ransom, I just don't see PATFO trading Kawhi to the enemy. Might have to settle for Jerry West's offer. Maybe get him to take on Patty's contract and give us Lou Williams too.

Harris is not a good player. Much rather have Ingam and not bothering with 12 and 13 pick, which means little unless you luck out.

[Marcus Bryant]

What is this Kawhi would have to waive his trade kicker bullshit Zach Lowe mentions?

http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23847072/zach-lowe-kawhi-leonard-jaylen-brown-celtics-spurs-trades

So a deal meets the CBA rules.

[AFBlue]

Harris is not a good player. Much rather have Ingam and not bothering with 12 and 13 pick, which means little unless you luck out.

With all due respect, you're an idiot. Harris is a good player. He's not a superstar, but he's definitely a solid pro...shoots 40% from 3, plays both forward positions, decent defender. And while 12 and 13 aren't great, those two picks plus 18 might be enough to move into the Top 5 for rebuilding teams that need multiple young prospects.

[baseline bum]

Spurs should be doing everything in their power to attempt to repair this enough to get him signed, because the second they do, the leverage pendulum swings in their direction. If they aren't able to truly reconcile over the next year, they'd have control of the process and be able to command max value in a trade.

I disagree. You offer the supermax if you think he's healthy and committed to the team. He's obviously not the former. I'm not interested in taking the chance on a $219 million contract for a guy I'm just going to trade for pennies on the dollar in a year.

[tbdog]

With all due respect, you're an idiot. Harris is a good player. He's not a superstar, but he's definitely a solid pro...shoots 40% from 3, plays both forward positions, decent defender. And while 12 and 13 aren't great, those two picks plus 18 might be enough to move into the Top 5 for rebuilding teams that need multiple young prospects.

Harris does two things well. Can score and can rebound. Everything else is well under par. He cannot guard 3's well enough. He can't guard 4's well enough. He is a poor passer. He has no basketball iq worthy of a good player. He does not know how to rotate properly. Doesn't screen well. He essentially is just a stat guy. You would know that if you watch him play. He has been traded from Bucks to Magic to Pistons to Clippers. He never wins. Has never played a playoff game. Has shot 40% from 3 for the first time in 7 years. Ingram is in the second season and is up to 39% at 16ppg, and guarding the best wing player every night. Not only that but Ingram has 2 years left on his rookie contract and Harris is on a fucking expiring contract. May as well get Love and 8. At least Love has played a fucking playoff game.

[objective]

I'd rather get the satisfaction of Kawhi sitting at home and drinking for a full season then the right to pay Tobias a 4/$100 million deal next summer to win 50 games and get boned in the playoffs

[sasaint]

Harris does two things well. Can score and can rebound. Everything else is well under par. He cannot guard 3's well enough. He can't guard 4's well enough. He is a poor passer. He has no basketball iq worthy of a good player. He does not know how to rotate properly. Doesn't screen well. He essentially is just a stat guy. You would know that if you watch him play. He has been traded from Bucks to Magic to Pistons to Clippers. He never wins. Has never played a playoff game. Has shot 40% from 3 for the first time in 7 years. Ingram is in the second season and is up to 39% at 16ppg, and guarding the best wing player every night. Not only that but Ingram has 2 years left on his rookie contract and Harris is on a fucking expiring contract. May as well get Love and 8. At least Love has played a fucking playoff game.

Thanks for the lowdown on Harris. I haven't seen him much.

[MoSpur02]

The longer this goes on, the more likely he'll be a Spur. The funny thing was they supposedly report to the media that it's not even about the money. It's absolutely about the money. He wants the $219. Spurs don't wanna give it to him and I'm actually with them. If we would have comeback from the injury to play towards the end and looked close to what he was in the past then I would say they should be offering the$219. He sat out all season basically over a "quad injury" and turned last season into a circus.

[sasaint]

With all due respect, you're an idiot. Harris is a good player. He's not a superstar, but he's definitely a solid pro...shoots 40% from 3, plays both forward positions, decent defender. And while 12 and 13 aren't great, those two picks plus 18 might be enough to move into the Top 5 for rebuilding teams that need multiple young prospects.

Like the Spurs? For a team that rarely gets a pick below 25, ONE pick below 20 and TWO below 15 sounds pretty great to me - except for one thing: Poop would send all three guys to the G-League for the season. But all 3 of those picks for a top 5 sounds like a better deal for the team getting 3 picks to me.

[midnightpulp]

If I'm the Spurs brass, you don't trade him now. Make his bitch-ass show up to training camp and start the season with the team, and then consider offers at the trade deadline from contending teams wanting a mid-season rental that they hope puts them over the hump, namely Philly, Boston, or even Cleveland if James is still there. Not sure what these teams will offer, but who gives a shit. Spurs brass might believe they still have some modicum of leverage, and want to explore pre-season trade options since there's always the possibility Leonard under performs during that mid-season spell and further kills his value, but what are teams going to realistically offer knowing Leonard is bolting in a year? The Spurs won't get shit in a pre-season trade, no high draft picks, no young talent, nothing. The best way to maximize leverage is waiting until the mid-season deadline, when teams like Boston, Philly, etc will be desperate for that key piece and have to at the very least offer something decent.

Only organization I can see offering a decent pre-season package is the Clippers, since West might be convinced that Kawhi "wanting to play in LA" also includes the Clippers, but everyone with a brain knows he wants the Lakers and only the Lakers. And the Spurs better not give in and help them build a superteam (rumors are Leonard's camp has been in contact with James' camp) while also caving to Leonard and his dipshit Uncle's demands. Ultimate point, frustrating Leonard and his camp for another a year is a "bigger win" than trading him pre-season for peanuts.

[Marcus Bryant]

I disagree. You offer the supermax if you think he's healthy and committed to the team. He's obviously not the former. I'm not interested in taking the chance on a $219 million contract for a guy I'm just going to trade for pennies on the dollar in a year.

Yeah is he going to change his ways? He wants a trade because his teammates called him out on sitting out when he could play? Why am I going to believe that he's really committed now that he's seekng more money? Confirming that you exaggerated/faked an injury to avoid playing is some serious bullshit in the NBA. This wasn't closing out the season for a lottery bound team. I'm sure the Spurs will approach things now to mitigate the situation and end up eventually with a decent return for Leonard but surely they have a FU plan...

[Budkin]

If I'm the Spurs brass, you don't trade him now. Make his bitch-ass show up to training camp and start the season with the team, and then consider offers at the trade deadline from contending teams wanting a mid-season rental that they hope puts them over the hump, namely Philly, Boston, or even Cleveland if James is still there. Not sure what these teams will offer, but who gives a shit. Spurs brass might believe they still have some modicum of leverage, and want to explore pre-season trade options since there's always the possibility Leonard under performs during that mid-season spell and further kills his value, but what are teams going to realistically offer knowing Leonard is bolting in a year? The Spurs won't get shit in a pre-season trade, no high draft picks, no young talent, nothing. The best way to maximize leverage is waiting until the mid-season deadline, when teams like Boston, Philly, etc will be desperate for that key piece and have to at the very least offer something decent.

Only organization I can see offering a decent pre-season package is the Clippers, since West might be convinced that Kawhi "wanting to play in LA" also includes the Clippers, but everyone with a brain knows he wants the Lakers and only the Lakers. And the Spurs better not give in and help them build a superteam (rumors are Leonard's camp has been in contact with James' camp) while also caving to Leonard and his dipshit Uncle's demands. Ultimate point, frustrating Leonard and his camp for another a year is a "bigger win" than trading him pre-season for peanuts.

This all day.

[ducks]

Yeah but would you be pissed in the morning David Robinson said Leonard will sign an extension in 2 days

[HarlemHeat37]

I'd do the same thing as mid, assuming there won't be any special deals this Summer, make it as inconvenient as possible for their team..

If that happens and I'm Dennis, my next move is playing the race card and accusing the Spurs organization of modern day slavery, by not releasing Kawhi from the shackles they put on him..

I don't think Pop would be able to stomach that type of accusation..

[Marcus Bryant]

FU plan is not signing him to supermax or any extension then trading him to some EC contender at the trade deadline next Feb. He's going to have to play next season, can't rehab forever if he wants to get another contract.

[99 Problems]

LLLLLLOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLLLL

Those who clearly did not watch Whi in the finals with Grizz & Rockets, and probably on saw a few seconds of Game 1 highlights against GSW. It astounds me the people who have no idea the level Whi was at, media included. You talk with people about Conley & Gasol and the Grizz series and how good they were and you can just tell the peanuts have no idea what went on, didn’t even tune in. People say Whi not in same rung as this guy or that guy. LOOOOLLLLLLLLLLL, KD with Rusty W and the lead couldn’t beat those ass clowns but they give you their shitty evaluations on Twitter and the like as if they’re sitting next to RC and advising him. LLLLLOLLLLLLLL.

[midnightpulp]

I'd do the same thing as mid, assuming there won't be any special deals this Summer, make it as inconvenient as possible for their team..

If that happens and I'm Dennis, my next move is playing the race card and accusing the Spurs organization of modern day slavery, by not releasing Kawhi from the shackles they put on him..

I don't think Pop would be able to stomach that type of accusation..

Fear is the Spurs are so accommodating, they'll give. They also might be concerned about repairing the PR fallout from this situation that's painted them as incompetent/short sighted in dealing with player health.

[coachmac87]

Fear is the Spurs are so accommodating, they'll give. They also might be concerned about repairing the PR fallout from this situation that's painted them as incompetent/short sighted in dealing with player health.

Getting fined 250K and starting the “rest” trend should be enough evidence...

Not the “deep quad contusion” guy who’s has setbacks from his doctors when it’s time to play..and now is 100% when it’s time to be dealt

[objective]

Fear is the Spurs are so accommodating, they'll give. They also might be concerned about repairing the PR fallout from this situation that's painted them as incompetent/short sighted in dealing with player health.

I do wonder though ... Trading Kawhi now might hurt ticket sales too much, and they're barely moving as it is

It might be better $$$ wise if they sell hope of reconciliation.

Nobody is buying season packages to watch Tobias or Ingram

[apalisoc_9]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie.

[midnightpulp]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie.

Duncan and Robinson are basically gods there (even when the latter choked before the arrival of the former), and Leonard was on his way to that status. If you want to blame anyone for the "Pop's system" narrative, blame the media. Pop will be first to say he's been extremely lucky with the players he's had. Leonard and his "team" are bitchmade. Accept that fact.

[TDfan2007]

Duncan and Robinson are basically gods there (even when the latter choked before the arrival of the former), and Leonard was on his way to that status. If you want to blame anyone for the "Pop's system" narrative, blame the media. Pop will be first to say he's been extremely lucky with the players he's had. Leonard and his "team" are bitchmade. Accept that fact.

This, all day. It's not Pop's fault that the media props him up so much. He doesn't self-promote, and he's always given credit to Timmy and RC.

The fact is that people don't want to play in SA because it's not a glamorous city in a big market. Doesn't help that the Spurs system hurts players' stats. Duncan, Parker, and Manu could have all had better numbers elsewhere.

[cjw]

If they don’t trade him in the offseason and he keeps up with the shenanigan, Spurs should go 100% rogue and suspend him for not reporting to the team. Then file a grievance at year end opposing his free agency if he doesn’t play.

This is obviously a worst case scenario. If he does play and at a high level, he may requalify for the supermax and his whole calculus could change. While unlikely, it’s better to take the risk on it than trade him for a subpar package now when you have another 7.5 months to move him.

[Lostwingman]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie.

If Kawhi doesn't come out of this looking like cancer and the Spurs don't come out alright, I'll hope for nothing but the worst career for the mute autist.

[marinoman]

If kawhi hated the organization, pop and/or tp, he would demand a trade and list some preferred destinations. The fact that he said la and la only should tell anyone that isnt a dipshit it’s not about the spurs,especially when la sux and philly and Boston are young, good and interested

[Down Under]

Told you Don is a fucking retard...

1009604747127672832

:lol Booker
That's an all time take

[spurs10]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie. I don't know where you are getting you're information, but I have heard horrible PR about Kawhi. The narrative is he is poorly managed and going to lose $80 million and not get traded to the Lakers. Also he is largely being called out for quitting on his team. I've been behind him in the past, but sitting out an entire season, taking $19 million, and then demanding a trade when still under contract is a very poor PR move. He looks like he's being managed by a rank amateur. He would actually be much better off playing his ass off next season and then he'd be free to spend eternity on the Lakers. I think he's just going to lose somewhere between $80 to $100 million and risk suspension for a year. It's actually makes no sense.

[tbdog]

Leonard's group was there to make the most amount of money. Well they have royally screwed that one up.

[venitian navigator]

The big risk for Leonard "group" will be the Spurs choice to not give up...and then face the training camp and the first part of the regular season.
This way what will happen after is that:
1) only if he plays to his old level, he will have the chance to a) play again for the supermax or something near it or b) to still make clear he don't want to re-ign,.
In case b), if he will mantain his limited list to LAL or LAC, that will be the ultimate evidence he decided to screw the team, so he will be traded to the worst partner possible in the eastern conference at the trade deadline. In this case, considering the impossibility of re-signing with that team, he will give up an incredible amount of money (80 millions) just by contracts, but also the amount you have to pay in taxes to the State of California...plus he will have to sell low the two houses he's building in SA;
2) if he doesn't play to his old level...next season is gonna be pure hell for him...'cause he's gonna be exposed on every possible level for every single game he's gonna play..

[AFBlue]

Harris does two things well. Can score and can rebound. Everything else is well under par. He cannot guard 3's well enough. He can't guard 4's well enough. He is a poor passer. He has no basketball iq worthy of a good player. He does not know how to rotate properly. Doesn't screen well. He essentially is just a stat guy. You would know that if you watch him play. He has been traded from Bucks to Magic to Pistons to Clippers. He never wins. Has never played a playoff game. Has shot 40% from 3 for the first time in 7 years. Ingram is in the second season and is up to 39% at 16ppg, and guarding the best wing player every night. Not only that but Ingram has 2 years left on his rookie contract and Harris is on a fucking expiring contract. May as well get Love and 8. At least Love has played a fucking playoff game.

Had me with the bolded parts. Sounds good to me.

[tbdog]

Had me with the bolded parts. Sounds good to me.

So can Melo.

[Atl Spur]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie.

It’s plenty of players that wished they played for San Antonio; The Spurs aren’t done yet.

[Slippy]

The big risk for Leonard "group" will be the Spurs choice to not give up...and then face the training camp and the first part of the regular season.
This way what will happen after is that:
1) only if he plays to his old level, he will have the chance to a) play again for the supermax or something near it or b) to still make clear he don't want to re-ign,.
In case b), if he will mantain his limited list to LAL or LAC, that will be the ultimate evidence he decided to screw the team, so he will be traded to the worst partner possible in the eastern conference at the trade deadline. In this case, considering the impossibility of re-signing with that team, he will give up an incredible amount of money (80 millions) just by contracts, but also the amount you have to pay in taxes to the State of California...plus he will have to sell low the two houses he's building in SA;
2) if he doesn't play to his old level...next season is gonna be pure hell for him...'cause he's gonna be exposed on every possible level for every single game he's gonna play..

For those wanting spurs to play hardball & hold of on trading. I concurr but they dont necessarily have to go to that length. They just have inform Kawhis group they going to let it play out into the season. If uncle still wants the most dollars then he will be forced to relax the laker demand. They like the spurs dont want this to drag on.

[Chillen]

If that Boston thing is true Spurs may wind up regretting not taking that call and trading Kawhi last year. No team is going to give up huge assets for a 1 year rental of Kawhi possibly even the Lakers now that Kawhi made his intentions clear. Spurs better get what they can for him and quick because by the NBA trade deadline they won't get anything significant for Kawhi. This situation is pretty damn sad and messy and I don't fault the Spurs organization they have a player on their hands in Kawhi that wants to play in another city and team (Lakers) and is basically being a baby about it. I get it if they want to get the best deal and they should but they better make it known he is on the trade block.

Right now Kawhi is a cancer for this team.

[tbdog]

If that Boston thing is true Spurs may wind up regretting not taking that call and trading Kawhi last year. No team is going to give up huge assets for a 1 year rental of Kawhi possibly even the Lakers now that Kawhi made his intentions clear. Spurs better get what they can for him and quick because by the NBA trade deadline they won't get anything significant for Kawhi. This situation is pretty damn sad and messy and I don't fault the Spurs organization they have a player on their hands in Kawhi that wants to play in another city and team (Lakers) and is basically being a baby about it. I get it if they want to get the best deal and they should but they better make it known he is on the trade block.

Right now Kawhi is a cancer for this team.

Spurs didn't know Kawhi had major issues back then. All they did was support Kawhi and his rehab/rest/lengthy New York stay.

[venitian navigator]

Spurs didn't know Kawhi had major issues back then. All they did was support Kawhi and his rehab/rest/lengthy New York stay.

And let's not forget they had the most confidence in him consenting to him and his staff to manage the entire process of rehabilitation for more than a year to the point that he's been not available for the play offs...despite been cleared from the Spurs medical staff a lot of time before.
Probably this will determine a bad precedent against players and their chance to have a second opinion shared with the team doctors...
In fact the argument could be made the same as the Isiah Thomas has been made in Kiwhi 's favor...and a point for the nba teams against players will be that teams can't be blackmailed by players under contract (in this case paid 19 millions for this single season).
From now on, any nba team, when the phisical status of a player will be controversial, will remind what has just happened and will be considered more than legitimate to immediately call the nba for the third decisive opinion...and in case the player refuses to play, he will be sued and, presumibly, suspended indefinitely from the league...

[spurschamps99030507]

If that Boston thing is true Spurs may wind up regretting not taking that call and trading Kawhi last year. No team is going to give up huge assets for a 1 year rental of Kawhi possibly even the Lakers now that Kawhi made his intentions clear. Spurs better get what they can for him and quick because by the NBA trade deadline they won't get anything significant for Kawhi. This situation is pretty damn sad and messy and I don't fault the Spurs organization they have a player on their hands in Kawhi that wants to play in another city and team (Lakers) and is basically being a baby about it. I get it if they want to get the best deal and they should but they better make it known he is on the trade block.

Right now Kawhi is a cancer for this team.

I agree, you r right but this could be a strategy before the rat and his group filtered out last friday that they want to leave. It has destroyed almost any possibility the organization gets something good.


The worst scenario is suicide as Cleveland did, it was ridiculous. Two options, sign the new contract and fix internal issues or he l 80 million next year.

[duncan2k5]

if kawaii is traded. and if we get some decent pieces back, is it a good time to go back to moving the ball more?

We didn't have him last year and the ball didn't move... Matter of fact, Kawhi was there for the beautiful game... LMA wasn't... Then LMA had the team for himself last year, and the ball still didn't move... I see a common theme here...

[Chillen]

I agree, you r right but this could be a strategy before the rat and his group filtered out last friday that they want to leave. It has destroyed almost any possibility the organization gets something good.


The worst scenario is suicide as Cleveland did, it was ridiculous. Two options, sign the new contract and fix internal issues or he l 80 million next year.

If I am RC I am on the phone to Phoenix tonight begging to send Kawhi for the #1 pick Ayton.

[stxspurs]

If kawhi hated the organization, pop and/or tp, he would demand a trade and list some preferred destinations. The fact that he said la and la only should tell anyone that isnt a dipshit it’s not about the spurs,especially when la sux and philly and Boston are young, good and interested

I agree. I would want to be sent to a playoff team with a chance. U would want to believe he isnt that dumb but it seems like it

[Down Under]

I'd tell him I'm not trading him at all. This could be the only way for him to force him to tell Uncle Dennis where to go or to sign extension. He would lose a whole lot of money if he were to pull the same shit next year & would also mean he would miss 2 seasons of his prime.

[picnroll]

Sit the douche bag at the end of the bench the entire year and the first time he pulls any crap suspend him without pay.

[bklynspursfan]

We didn't have him last year and the ball didn't move... Matter of fact, Kawhi was there for the beautiful game... LMA wasn't... Then LMA had the team for himself last year, and the ball still didn't move... I see a common theme here...

Tbh, the beautiful game stopped when Kawhi became the focal point. And I don't mind it, he was that great offensively. But don't put it on LMA for killing the beautiful game, it was gone already.

[acoelho1]

How about Pop apologize for the public comments questioning his injury and repair the relationship. Our best option is to bring him back. That should be priority number 1 so you continue to build that trust back for as long as you can even if he still walks.

[SpursDynasty85]

How about Pop apologize for the public comments questioning his injury and repair the relationship. Our best option is to bring him back. That should be priority number 1 so you continue to build that trust back for as long as you can even if he still walks.

You ready to give him 220M? Pretty sure that's the only thing that will work.

[offset formation]

Kawhi would probably be worth the supermax in a big market. Whether he is on the "Spurs payroll" is questionable. I think the supermax is ironically the bane of small markets.

It's going to be the bane of the Dubs next year, if Draymond qualified for it, too.

[acoelho1]

You ready to give him 220M? Pretty sure that's the only thing that will work.

Yes, he’s easily one of the best players in the world.

[offset formation]

The Spurs are getting murdered as far as PR with players is concerned. I think after this whole thing the chances of anyone ever going to San Antonio is now none.

Not only do you get zero credit in San antonio you also have to play like a slave to pop. Im sure some players deep inside think this way. They need to fix their reputation with players otherwise this team is gonna be lottery bound for 10+ years unlesd they get luck with a rookie.

Haha. You're an idiot.

[tholdren]

Yes, he’s easily one of the best players in the world.

Lol

[offset formation]

We didn't have him last year and the ball didn't move... Matter of fact, Kawhi was there for the beautiful game... LMA wasn't... Then LMA had the team for himself last year, and the ball still didn't move... I see a common theme here...

Hey...update. The Spurs aren't going to change their offensive game plan when they expect Kawhi back the entire season.

Come on man. You've gone 100% pathetic, and are entering the scrotum holder level.

[offset formation]

How about Pop apologize for the public comments questioning his injury and repair the relationship. Our best option is to bring him back. That should be priority number 1 so you continue to build that trust back for as long as you can even if he still walks.

The season just ended a month ago. He is 100%.

If that doesn't tell you a you need to know, then you're a homer. There is zero excuse that he wasn't on the court at he end of last season. Zero.

[YGWHI]

You can’t answer my questions and that’s my entire point.
Like you didn't answer my questions.


You’re talking in circles going at people for going at Kawhi..
Nah...In fact, I'm having a good time and laughing about some reactions here.

Can't remember the nick but one guy replied to me "what's about loyalty? what's about to be loyal to the team that developed him?"

But he didn't have any issue with LMA leaving Blazers. And he would love to have on his team a guy like LeBron that it's likely he would leave Cavs...twice. Who knows but this sounds contradictory.

Or the fan that was talking shit about Kawhi's group making decisions for him but loved Tim's group because they convinced him to stay...

And the guy here so worried about how the media criticized Pop/RC/Spurs these days when he spent a whole season criticizing Pau/Mills contracts or Pop's coaching in last years.

"Pop couldn't solve Doc's double-high screen issue...Pop went to an injured Parker when Mills was having the best playoffs of his career in 2015...Spurs were outplayed and out-rebounded because Pop refused to play LMA more minutes against OKC bigs and Kawhi/Green vs KD/Russ..." "Parker looked so washed and Pop forgot White"...

People hate that a player leaves the Spurs after the team denies a supermax deal but love when other players leave their teams. All days fans make threads here to criticize PATFO but hate the media criticizing them...Again, ambiguous and contradictory.

[cjw]

This is 50x worse than what Durant pulled and others (George and Kyrie). At least in all their cases, they didn’t sit out a season. Sets horrible precedent if the league doesn’t take action here. A big fine should do it or if there was collusion / tampering, even worse.

[spurschamps99030507]

the fact is that the rat and his group have done a lot of damage by filtering out that they want to leave and minimizing the chances of getting something good. In this situation you have to be calm and not rush, cleveland made the ridiculous by accepting a stupid deal.


the rat has betrayed his teammates, the organization, popovich, Rc and the fans. Now we see his real face, this has nothing to do with LMA. It is not a situation that a player simply asks for a trade. he quitting on the team, they paid him and he did not want to play, without ethics, without professionalism. His teammates do not believe him, they implored him to play, he disappeared in the playoffs, a few days after the elimination in LA watching baseball but he could not be with his team.


A month ago he told Danny Green that he wanted to stay on the team, more lies. before meeting face to face with Popovich, his group filters the press that wants to go hurting the franchise in a trade, there is no honesty, no respect. Surely popovich and rc have made mistakes and they are not perfect but they are honest and they speak privately do not throw shit to the press to make a destructive situation.


When he arrived he was not Duncan, he was not Kobe, he was not Lebron, he was a simple rol player and they put him in a position of success. If you have problems, speak it in private and solve it.


It is unacceptable what he has done and his group, lack of class, respect and memory.

[acoelho1]

The season just ended a month ago. He is 100%.

If that doesn't tell you a you need to know, then you're a homer. There is zero excuse that he wasn't on the court at he end of last season. Zero.

Doesn't change the fact that he is still one of the best players in the world. Sign him and you can always trade him later if it doesn't work out. Look at Blake Griffin as an example and Kawhi is a way better player. Pop needs to put his ego aside even if Kawhi is in the wrong here.

[Crazymaddopeyo]

Doesn't change the fact that he is still one of the best players in the world. Sign him and you can always trade him later if it doesn't work out. Look at Blake Griffin as an example and Kawhi is a way better player. Pop needs to put his ego aside even if Kawhi is in the wrong here.

Can't sign him if he doesn't want to sign.

[Chillen]

Love this pic from an article at theringer.com, kind of sums up this whole nightmare:https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JDc0y8TbWsrfnq7IAwNeXWkesCA=/0x0:3000x2000/920x613/filters:focal(1251x209:1731x689)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60133453/kawhi_spurs_verrier_AP_ringer.0.jpg

https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/6/21/17487582/kawhi-leonard-spurs-lakers-nba-reality

[Amuseddaysleeper]

Love this pic from an article at theringer.com, kind of sums up this whole nightmare:https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JDc0y8TbWsrfnq7IAwNeXWkesCA=/0x0:3000x2000/920x613/filters:focal(1251x209:1731x689)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60133453/kawhi_spurs_verrier_AP_ringer.0.jpg

https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/6/21/17487582/kawhi-leonard-spurs-lakers-nba-reality

That article feels like when the AI’s fight back in Westworld :lol

[spurschamps99030507]

Two days ahead of the NBA Draft, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich finally got a meeting with disgruntled star forward Kawhi Leonard in Southern California, hoping to open a line of communication that will lead to Leonard backing off the trade demand he lodged with the team last week. That drama figures to overshadow Thursday’s draft. But executives around the league say it’s near impossible that the Spurs and Leonard can work out their differences in time for the draft, which would leave San Antonio — which owns the No. 18 pick — in limbo as the team makes its selection.Ideally, the Spurs would have a clear view on Leonard’s future so that they could acquire more picks in this draft


That complication is going to make trade talks extremely difficult for the Spurs before Thursday’s draft. “They are not going to want to rush something like that,” one general manager told Sporting News. “The teams they’re dealing with are looking at too much uncertainty, and that’s got to drive down the price they’re willing to pay. The Spurs will have a hard time getting fair value for him, but you’d rather get quarters on the dollar than pennies on the dollar.”


Additionally, some of the trade scenarios that have been floated for Leonard, both executives noted, have been too generous to the Spurs. “No one is going to make an even trade here,” the general manager said. “If San Antonio has to do this, they’re dealing from a position of weakness. The only thing they will be able to do is not be too weak here.”
http://www.sportingnews.com/nba/news/nba-trade-rumors-kawhi-leonard-news-spurs-lakers-celtics-cavs-76ers-contract-injury-update/erhcgxugqmgs1cddxvf0345ax

[Mugen]

^then don't trade him.

[BackHome]

If I was Pop and RC I would tell them were not trading you to the Flakers but we will trade you to Clippers, Philly, Boston. If you don’t make it known to them that you are willing to be traded there and will stay well we won’t trade you.

[cd98]

^then don't trade him.

The argument is that his trade value gets weaker as you move into next season to the point that he has no value and walks for nothing. The only way to get value is to sign him to another contract, wait a year, and then trade him. But by then, his salary will be so big, it will also make him harder to trade.

[sammy]

the fact is that the rat and his group have done a lot of damage by filtering out that they want to leave and minimizing the chances of getting something good. In this situation you have to be calm and not rush, cleveland made the ridiculous by accepting a stupid deal.


the rat has betrayed his teammates, the organization, popovich, Rc and the fans. Now we see his real face, this has nothing to do with LMA. It is not a situation that a player simply asks for a trade. he quitting on the team, they paid him and he did not want to play, without ethics, without professionalism. His teammates do not believe him, they implored him to play, he disappeared in the playoffs, a few days after the elimination in LA watching baseball but he could not be with his team.


A month ago he told Danny Green that he wanted to stay on the team, more lies. before meeting face to face with Popovich, his group filters the press that wants to go hurting the franchise in a trade, there is no honesty, no respect. Surely popovich and rc have made mistakes and they are not perfect but they are honest and they speak privately do not throw shit to the press to make a destructive situation.


When he arrived he was not Duncan, he was not Kobe, he was not Lebron, he was a simple rol player and they put him in a position of success. If you have problems, speak it in private and solve it.


It is unacceptable what he has done and his group, lack of class, respect and memory.

Great Post! Agreed! Ungrateful POS!

[coachmac87]

Like you didn't answer my questions.


Nah...In fact, I'm having a good time and laughing about some reactions here.

Can't remember the nick but one guy replied to me "what's about loyalty? what's about to be loyal to the team that developed him?"

But he didn't have any issue with LMA leaving Blazers. And he would love to have on his team a guy like LeBron that it's likely he would leave Cavs...twice. Who knows but this sounds contradictory.

Or the fan that was talking shit about Kawhi's group making decisions for him but loved Tim's group because they convinced him to stay...

And the guy here so worried about how the media criticized Pop/RC/Spurs these days when he spent a whole season criticizing Pau/Mills contracts or Pop's coaching in last years.

"Pop couldn't solve Doc's double-high screen issue...Pop went to an injured Parker when Mills was having the best playoffs of his career in 2015...Spurs were outplayed and out-rebounded because Pop refused to play LMA more minutes against OKC bigs and Kawhi/Green vs KD/Russ..." "Parker looked so washed and Pop forgot White"...

People hate that a player leaves the Spurs after the team denies a supermax deal but love when other players leave their teams. All days fans make threads here to criticize PATFO but hate the media criticizing them...Again, ambiguous and contradictory.

Seriously what the fuck are you talking about? I told you tell me the injury and give me proof that injury can keep a player out as long as Kawhi.

You blabber about shit I didn’t even ask you..hence talking around in circles. Plus you asked me a question? So you answers my question with another question? Again you’re talking in circles

Take Kawhis cock out your mouth and whipe off the mess you’ve made and proceed...

[Mugen]

The argument is that his trade value gets weaker as you move into next season to the point that he has no value and walks for nothing. The only way to get value is to sign him to another contract, wait a year, and then trade him. But by then, his salary will be so big, it will also make him harder to trade.

His value is already extremely low now. You wait out free agency to see what LeBron and PG do.

if they sign with the Lakers > LA doesn't have capspace for Kawhi next summer unless he takes a MASSIVE paycut > teams aren't scared off and you get better offers
Lakers get neither Bron or PG > They are going to be desperate to land a superstar and they'll likely up their proposal for Kawhi

If you get an offer with a top 5 pick in tonight's draft, you do it. But if you don't, then you better fucking wait out Free Agency.

Sadly, I think the front office will cave and will probably end up shipping him off close to July 1st for a terrible deal. I don't think they have the stomach to wait this out, in fact I'm 99% confident they don't.

[BackHome]

Damn Coach throwing bombs on YG

[8FOR!3]

His value is already extremely low now. You wait out free agency to see what LeBron and PG do.

if they sign with the Lakers > LA doesn't have capspace for Kawhi next summer unless he takes a MASSIVE paycut > teams aren't scared off and you get better offers
Lakers get neither Bron or PG > They are going to be desperate to land a superstar and they'll likely up their proposal for Kawhi

If you get an offer with a top 5 pick in tonight's draft, you do it. But if you don't, then you better fucking wait out Free Agency.

Sadly, I think the front office will cave and will probably end up shipping him off close to July 1st for a terrible deal. I don't think they have the stomach to wait this out, in fact I'm 99% confident they don't.

I’d take top 8, maybe even higher. There’s 10-12 guys that I put a decent amount above the rest

[cd98]

His value is already extremely low now. You wait out free agency to see what LeBron and PG do.

if they sign with the Lakers > LA doesn't have capspace for Kawhi next summer unless he takes a MASSIVE paycut > teams aren't scared off and you get better offers
Lakers get neither Bron or PG > They are going to be desperate to land a superstar and they'll likely up their proposal for Kawhi

If you get an offer with a top 5 pick in tonight's draft, you do it. But if you don't, then you better fucking wait out Free Agency.

Sadly, I think the front office will cave and will probably end up shipping him off close to July 1st for a terrible deal. I don't think they have the stomach to wait this out, in fact I'm 99% confident they don't.

True, but the closer you get to the deadline, the more teams will be willing to wait until the offseason to sign him as a free agent. If he passes on the max, teams can get him cheaper if he is a free agent. He would be more expensive to trade. Trading him next year would help Kawhi get a few million back in his pocket, but him walking as a free agent benefits the team that signs him because they can get him at a cheaper price. But I agree that if LeBron and PG sign with the Lakers and they don't get rid of Deng, then they won't have money to sign Kawhi and he's stuck with the Clippers or the Kings if he wants to live in California.

[look_at_g_shred]

He ain't going anywhere.

[Mugen]

True, but the closer you get to the deadline, the more teams will be willing to wait until the offseason to sign him as a free agent. If he passes on the max, teams can get him cheaper if he is a free agent. He would be more expensive to trade. Trading him next year would help Kawhi get a few million back in his pocket, but him walking as a free agent benefits the team that signs him because they can get him at a cheaper price. But I agree that if LeBron and PG sign with the Lakers and they don't get rid of Deng, then they won't have money to sign Kawhi and he's stuck with the Clippers or the Kings if he wants to live in California.

Couple of different items:
-He won't pass up the max, I doubt it's been offered
-Correct me i'm wrong but LA needs to shed Deng's contract to sign PG and Bron to max contracts this year. Either by trade or by stretching. Not a 100% sure though.

[BSfromTX]

Couple of different items:
-He won't pass up the max, I doubt it's been offered
-Correct me i'm wrong but LA needs to shed Deng's contract to sign PG and Bron to max contracts this year. Either by trade or by stretching. Not a 100% sure though.

Not sure they have to get rid of Deng to sign PG and Bron, but if they trade for Kawhi, they definitely do.

I have a feeling Pop will not help Lakers. Will consider dealing with Clippers. Otherwise, he might hold Kawhi's feet to the fire and hold out til trade deadline and I'm fine with that

[Twisted_Dawg]

His value is already extremely low now. You wait out free agency to see what LeBron and PG do.

if they sign with the Lakers > LA doesn't have capspace for Kawhi next summer unless he takes a MASSIVE paycut > teams aren't scared off and you get better offers
Lakers get neither Bron or PG > They are going to be desperate to land a superstar and they'll likely up their proposal for Kawhi

If you get an offer with a top 5 pick in tonight's draft, you do it. But if you don't, then you better fucking wait out Free Agency.

Sadly, I think the front office will cave and will probably end up shipping him off close to July 1st for a terrible deal. I don't think they have the stomach to wait this out, in fact I'm 99% confident they don't.

Excellent points. Totally agree with strategy, and that Spurs will rush into early panic trade. Love idea of letting LA load up on Bron and George which minimizes them as a team Kawhi can go. Would love a top 5 trade tonight but its not happening.

You got the POTD:toast

[sasaint]

His value is already extremely low now. You wait out free agency to see what LeBron and PG do.

if they sign with the Lakers > LA doesn't have capspace for Kawhi next summer unless he takes a MASSIVE paycut > teams aren't scared off and you get better offers
Lakers get neither Bron or PG > They are going to be desperate to land a superstar and they'll likely up their proposal for Kawhi

If you get an offer with a top 5 pick in tonight's draft, you do it. But if you don't, then you better fucking wait out Free Agency.

Sadly, I think the front office will cave and will probably end up shipping him off close to July 1st for a terrible deal. I don't think they have the stomach to wait this out, in fact I'm 99% confident they don't.

Who do you want in the top 5?

[baseline bum]

The argument is that his trade value gets weaker as you move into next season to the point that he has no value and walks for nothing. The only way to get value is to sign him to another contract, wait a year, and then trade him. But by then, his salary will be so big, it will also make him harder to trade.

Based on the rumored offers he has no trade value now, so what's the point of giving him away?

[Pavlov]

Based on the rumored offers he has no trade value now, so what's the point of giving him away?Not sure if I see it getting much better with time and I don't want the Spurs to have to deal with Kawhancer in the season.

[Lostwingman]

Love this pic from an article at theringer.com, kind of sums up this whole nightmare:https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/JDc0y8TbWsrfnq7IAwNeXWkesCA=/0x0:3000x2000/920x613/filters:focal(1251x209:1731x689)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60133453/kawhi_spurs_verrier_AP_ringer.0.jpg

https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/6/21/17487582/kawhi-leonard-spurs-lakers-nba-reality

Good one here:

But more than anything, teaming up is a survival instinct in response to league environs, in the same way the elite center prospects in this year’s draft are all shooting 3s. To be a contender in the Warriors’ NBA, you need help. And the path LeBron is forging has allowed players to wait less than ever to get what they want.

I forgot my daily "Fuck KD" for taking what, a 20% pay cut? To keep the Warriors super team together? Whatever bullshit that was pales any of the niceties and considerations Tim, Tony, or Manu gave the franchise when arranging contracts. God forbid you mention that though, people still think we paid them in tamales and big red.

I think it still ultimately comes down to how Kawhi's camp retardedly handled this. Had this been a series of private conversations that Kawhi wants to bolt to LA and won't extend in SA, I'd be willing to put money on the likelihood that PATFO offer to give him the big money extension and then trade him after finding a 3 or even 4 team deal that'd make it work. Fact is, Spurs aren't in the business of screwing players over. Also man fuck this "they mishandled my injury" shit. Pop let you sit for all but 9 games this year to see where you were. Bitch.

[Extra Stout]

Not sure if I see it getting much better with time and I don't want the Spurs to have to deal with Kawhancer in the season.
What do they have to deal with? When he fails to show up to training camp and/or claims his quad is flaring up, level an indefinite suspension without pay and ban him from all team facilities.

[polandprzem]

Like you didn't answer my questions.


Nah...In fact, I'm having a good time and laughing about some reactions here.

Can't remember the nick but one guy replied to me "what's about loyalty? what's about to be loyal to the team that developed him?"

But he didn't have any issue with LMA leaving Blazers. And he would love to have on his team a guy like LeBron that it's likely he would leave Cavs...twice. Who knows but this sounds contradictory.

Or the fan that was talking shit about Kawhi's group making decisions for him but loved Tim's group because they convinced him to stay...

And the guy here so worried about how the media criticized Pop/RC/Spurs these days when he spent a whole season criticizing Pau/Mills contracts or Pop's coaching in last years.

"Pop couldn't solve Doc's double-high screen issue...Pop went to an injured Parker when Mills was having the best playoffs of his career in 2015...Spurs were outplayed and out-rebounded because Pop refused to play LMA more minutes against OKC bigs and Kawhi/Green vs KD/Russ..." "Parker looked so washed and Pop forgot White"...

People hate that a player leaves the Spurs after the team denies a supermax deal but love when other players leave their teams. All days fans make threads here to criticize PATFO but hate the media criticizing them...Again, ambiguous and contradictory.

Guys taking paycuts just to have better players around.
If this is about supermax that's bad tbh.

Not that Kawhi does not deserve if healthy but damn we got frockin Warriors with players not having max contracts

[baseline bum]

-Correct me i'm wrong but LA needs to shed Deng's contract to sign PG and Bron to max contracts this year. Either by trade or by stretching. Not a 100% sure though.

They could also get there by salary dumping Ball or Ingram.

[Pavlov]

What do they have to deal with? When he fails to show up to training camp and/or claims his quad is flaring up, level an indefinite suspension without pay and ban him from all team facilities.Exactly what I wouldn't want to happen. That would do nothing to improve the Spurs' trade position with other teams. Equal value is never going to happen. Get it over with.

[NASpurs]

1009856180997574657

[MoSpur02]

Per Woj, "Spurs are willing listeners on Leonard trade proposals, but haven't been proactive chasing down offers."

[MoSpur02]

LOL. I didn't know how to paste his tweet.

[RD2191]

LOL. I didn't know how to paste his tweet.

Paste deez nuts on yo face, bum. Jk

[Budkin]

LOL. I didn't know how to paste his tweet.

[ tweet ] TWEET_ID [ /tweet ] (obviously remove the spaces)

you can get the TWEET_ID from the end of the url if you go to the tweet directly.

https://twitter.com/wojespn/status/1009856180997574657

[RD2191]

1009856180997574657

Tf Is PATFO doing? It's obvious Kawhi doesn't want to be here.

[BackHome]

Lol Pop and RC blocked Magic’s number :lol

[Extra Stout]

Exactly what I wouldn't want to happen. That would do nothing to improve the Spurs' trade position with other teams. Equal value is never going to happen. Get it over with.
What is the point of trading for 2 cents on the dollar right now? Worst-case, the Spurs blow it up, trade LMA, go 15-67 this year, get a high lottery pick, go 15-67 next year, and get another high lottery pick.

What’s the alternative? Trade Leonard for something like Love and the #8? Watch the Spurs scrap to make the playoffs again only to get blasted by Houston or Golden State?

A million things could happen between now and next summer. There is a thing called posturing. Sure, Kawhi’s people might say he’ll only sign in LA, but gee, how convenient that they pull this crap right at the moment the Lakers have $61 million in cap space and a chance to sign LeBron AND Paul George. How convenient that they announce Kawhi is 100% right before the draft, when there are mutterings out of LA about whether Kawhi’s tendinopathy is chronic. Call their fucking bluff.

I don’t really think the Spurs should entertain keeping Kawhi long-term at this point anyway. He’s proving he can’t be depended on as a franchise player. He can’t lead, and he is easily manipulated by his hangers-on. His previous reputation as a gym rat who just wants to play has been blown to smithereens. At best, he’s a hothouse flower and a second fiddle, unless he’s on a team with preexisting veteran leadership.

Not every team is going to have cap space to sign Kawhi outright next summer. The Spurs still have some leverage. There is no need to panic. This core is not going to win anything regardless.

[Spurs da champs]

Tf Is PATFO doing? It's obvious Kawhi doesn't want to be here.

So it seems, but they're not obligated to trade him to the Fakers. Pop hates then as much as true Spurs fans it seems.

[baseline bum]

Exactly what I wouldn't want to happen. That would do nothing to improve the Spurs' trade position with other teams. Equal value is never going to happen. Get it over with.

No one is expecting equal value. Doesn't mean you just bend over and take it when the team everyone is scared of signing Leonard is in its strongest position of power.

[coachmac87]

Tf Is PATFO doing? It's obvious Kawhi doesn't want to be here.

It’s obvious they’re running a professional franchise...while you’re still wearing your Kawhi fan T-shirt with dry cum on it from the night before...

[RD2191]

It’s obvious they’re running a professional franchise...while you’re still wearing your Kawhi fan T-shirt with dry cum on it from the night before...

Keep me out of your gay fantasies bruh.

[RD2191]

So it seems, but they're not obligated to trade him to the Fakers. Pop hates then as much as true Spurs fans it seems.

But they should still be trying to move him imo

[Extra Stout]

One last point I forgot — since the Spurs have nothing more to lose, since one way or the other their title-contending era is over, there is something to be said for making an example of someone who pulls the shit Leonard has pulled. $100 million is a lot of money to piss away.

[rjv]

1009856180997574657

this really means nothing. it just says that the spurs will listen to trades but that does not suggest they will act on any of them.

[Pavlov]

What is the point of trading for 2 cents on the dollar right now? Worst-case, the Spurs blow it up, trade LMA, go 15-67 this year, get a high lottery pick, go 15-67 next year, and get another high lottery pick.

What’s the alternative? Trade Leonard for something like Love and the #8? Watch the Spurs scrap to make the playoffs again only to get blasted by Houston or Golden State?As I said, nothing looks to improve with time. If trading and tanking is the plan, doing so with one or more high picks to add to #18 this year and next year's lottery plus cap space from salary dumps is a start.

Do you have a scenario where the Spurs trade Kawhi and contend for a championship? I'm all ears.

EDIT:
One last point I forgot — since the Spurs have nothing more to lose, since one way or the other their title-contending era is over, there is something to be said for making an example of someone who pulls the shit Leonard has pulled. $100 million is a lot of money to piss away.
Oh, so there isn't. No need to wait for anything then IMO. Trade for as many picks and expiring deals as possible then dump and tank.

[coachmac87]

Keep me out of your gay fantasies bruh.

Nice way to deflect “faggot”

[RD2191]

Nice way to deflect “faggot”

What part of keep me out of your gay fantasies did you not understand?

[Pavlov]

No one is expecting equal value. Doesn't mean you just bend over and take it when the team everyone is scared of signing Leonard is in its strongest position of power.That's why I'm in favor of working with West. He's the most motivated party here.

[bklynspursfan]

this really means nothing. it just says that the spurs will listen to trades but that does not suggest they will act on any of them.

Right.. Jabari Young did say (fwiw) he expected more dialogue after the first Pop/Kawhi talk, they'll probably try and work things out as much as possible. If it still seems like it's going nowhere by a certain date, they'll probably be more aggressive.

[Extra Stout]

As I said, nothing looks to improve with time. If trading and tanking is the plan, doing so with one or more high picks to add to #18 this year and next year's lottery plus cap space from salary dumps is a start.

Do you have a scenario where the Spurs trade Kawhi and contend for a championship? I'm all ears.
What is likely to improve with time is his insistence that he will only sign with LA in 2019. If the Lakers sign a couple big-name free agents this summer, Kawhi would have to sign an absurdly below-market contract to join them. If they strike out this summer, then sure Kawhi could sign there for the max, but the Lakers would be nothing more than second-round fodder at best.

It’s only right now that they can form a superteam if they can pry Leonard away. The window will close quickly.

[JFK]

this really means nothing. it just says that the spurs will listen to trades but that does not suggest they will act on any of them.

Exactly. I'm sure someone will trash them tonight for doing nothing. I can see the 100 threads already.

If anything, this organization will not panic and just do something to make something happen. This is a dire situation they are in, but they have earned the benefit of the doubt to do what is right. This isn't Vlade Divac making awful deals.

This is a very different situation than usual. I feel Kawhi and his group are doing all they can to burn this team as much as they can on the way out.

[baseline bum]

What is the point of trading for 2 cents on the dollar right now? Worst-case, the Spurs blow it up, trade LMA, go 15-67 this year, get a high lottery pick, go 15-67 next year, and get another high lottery pick.

What’s the alternative? Trade Leonard for something like Love and the #8? Watch the Spurs scrap to make the playoffs again only to get blasted by Houston or Golden State?


Careful, the entire board will pile on and call you spoiled for not wanting a team with no future prospects and whose only talent is all on the wrong side of 30 to hold on to that last playoff seed with a death grip for the right to get curbstomped in the first round.

[coachmac87]

What part of keep me out of your gay fantasies did you not understand?


It’s ok to admit how much you love Kawhi...just look down at your shirt to remind yourself

[toki9]

I think the Spurs are just letting the market set the price for Kawhi...everybody knows that the Spurs are in a bad spot...and everybody knows that you get pennies on the dollar in these scenarios...so there's no benefit to the Spurs in prematurely setting the price floor by actively seeking out trades. By publicly saying that they're still hoping to retain Kawhi but privately listening to unsolicited offers, they're basically saying we don't want to trade him but if you blow us out of the water, we might do it. This way, the team is letting the other 29 teams bid against their own imagination/fears and against each other. It's a good play, particularly given that the Spurs don't really have many options. I do believe that they want to trade him at this point.

[baseline bum]

That's why I'm in favor of working with West. He's the most motivated party here.

He can't put together as good of a trade as either Boston or Philly.

[spurs10]

1009856180997574657 I'm sure they will listen and if something great comes up they might trade. Otherwise Kawhi is under contract, already sat out a year, and I'd be very pissed about paying him for another or making a bad trade. If he doesn't show at camp, I'm sure they can suspend him without pay...not a bad way to save $20 million. Add that to the $80 million he's already losing. Good work Uncle Dennis!!

[Pavlov]

What is likely to improve with time is his insistence that he will only sign with LA in 2019. If the Lakers sign a couple big-name free agents this summer, Kawhi would have to sign an absurdly below-market contract to join them. If they strike out this summer, then sure Kawhi could sign there for the max, but the Lakers would be nothing more than second-round fodder at best.

It’s only right now that they can form a superteam if they can pry Leonard away. The window will close quickly.That's why I want to send him to the Clippers. That's the surest way to keep the Laker superteam from forming and getting something in return IMO.

[JFK]

I'm sure they will listen and if something great comes up they might trade. Otherwise Kawhi is under contract, already sat out a year, and I'd be very pissed about paying him for another or making a bad trade. If he doesn't show at camp, I'm sure they can suspend him without pay...not a bad way to save $20 million. Add that to the $80 million he's already losing. Good work Uncle Dennis!!



See, I almost want them to hold onto him at this point and force the rat bastard to play. I think he also declared he is 100% healthy too, so he will be exposed for the liar he is.

I'm sure he will pull something and say he is hurt and sit out again. You're right. Fine his ass next season.

[spurs10]

He can't put together as good of a trade as either Boston or Philly. Indeed! Those teams could come up with something worthwhile, but Kawhi and his 'team' might try to sabotage the deal, which might send him to Spurs training camp in the end. I seriously doubt them sending to the Lakers.

[baseline bum]

What is likely to improve with time is his insistence that he will only sign with LA in 2019. If the Lakers sign a couple big-name free agents this summer, Kawhi would have to sign an absurdly below-market contract to join them. If they strike out this summer, then sure Kawhi could sign there for the max, but the Lakers would be nothing more than second-round fodder at best.

It’s only right now that they can form a superteam if they can pry Leonard away. The window will close quickly.

Assuming the Lakers sign James + PG13 to max deals, if the Lakers can find someone to take Deng they can offer a 4 year, $130 million deal to Kawhi next summer (market value would be his 30% max of 4 years, $139 million). But by waiting it forces LA to have to salary dump one of Ball or Ingram in July if they want to keep that ability to pay Leonard. If they stretch Deng so as to not have to salary dump their top two prospects then the best they'll be able to do next summer is 4 years, $99 million, and obviously Kawhi's not taking another $40 million short after walking away from the first $40 million he loses by not signing a Bird FA deal. So you dare the Lakers to dump one of their top two young players for nothing without any assurance of getting Leonard.

But even in that best case for LA, is LeBron going to sign there with Magic telling him he's holding onto capspace for a year to sign Kawhi? I say no, James walks if Magic isn't prepared to do everything he can to win a title in 2018-19, because LeBron's gotta be thinking how many prime years do I have left to win a title.

[Pavlov]

He can't put together as good of a trade as either Boston or Philly.But if our only option now is a Philly-style rebuild, who cares?

[spurs10]

See, I almost want them to hold onto him at this point and force the rat bastard to play. I think he also declared he is 100% healthy too, so he will be exposed for the liar he is.

I'm sure he will pull something and say he is hurt and sit out again. You're right. Fine his ass next season. :bobo Couldn't agree more....especially after taking 20 mil from the Spurs last season!

[baseline bum]

But if our only option now is a Philly-style rebuild, who cares?

Because Boston and Philly both have talented prospects they can offer. Players with higher ceilings than anyone obtainable from either LA team.

[BSfromTX]

I'm sure they will listen and if something great comes up they might trade. Otherwise Kawhi is under contract, already sat out a year, and I'd be very pissed about paying him for another or making a bad trade. If he doesn't show at camp, I'm sure they can suspend him without pay...not a bad way to save $20 million. Add that to the $80 million he's already losing. Good work Uncle Dennis!!

no doubt. Years from now so many will be shaking their heads at how much this hurt Kawhi. Pop probably honestly told him that too. He probably said, hey cool you want to go to LA? I'm fine with that, but your "group" has lead you down a dangerous path. You can still be your own man and I will do my best to help you out, but if you let them continue to make piss poor decisions for you, I will be forced to play hard ball and you will stand to lose a lot. You may eventually get to play for LA, but you will lose a ton of money. Ultimately, I have to do what is best for the Spurs organization.

[baseline bum]

That's why I want to send him to the Clippers. That's the surest way to keep the Laker superteam from forming and getting something in return IMO.

I don't get this insistence on getting something in return. You want to try to get something good in return. Tobias Harris would pretty useless in a rebuild and late lottery picks aren't all that valuable unless RC sees someone he absolutely loves still available like Kawhi in 2011. If that's the case then yeah you make that deal. But that's the only way I see it making any sense.

[Pavlov]

Because Boston and Philly both have talented prospects they can offer. Players with higher ceilings than anyone obtainable from either LA team.But if we're dumping all the other vets, we can get younger players and picks for them.

If we're blowing it up, blow it up now. If cockblocking the Lakers is a priority, the Clippers are still the best option. Holding onto a guy who has already been willing to fake an injury for a year is madness.

[BackHome]

I think the Spurs are just letting the market set the price for Kawhi...everybody knows that the Spurs are in a bad spot...and everybody knows that you get pennies on the dollar in these scenarios...so there's no benefit to the Spurs in prematurely setting the price floor by actively seeking out trades. By publicly saying that they're still hoping to retain Kawhi but privately listening to unsolicited offers, they're basically saying we don't want to trade him but if you blow us out of the water, we might do it. This way, the team is letting the other 29 teams bid against their own imagination/fears and against each other. It's a good play, particularly given that the Spurs don't really have many options. I do believe that they want to trade him at this point.

Best Post Yet + 100000

[John B]

My take is that both parties agreed to pipe down amicably not to feed the frenzy, will pursue a big name agent aka LeBron then offer close to Supermax. At least that’s what I’m hoping :toast

[look_at_g_shred]

But if we're dumping all the other vets, we can get younger players and picks for them.

If we're blowing it up, blow it up now. If cockblocking the Lakers is a priority, the Clippers are still the best option. Holding onto a guy who has already been willing to fake an injury for a year is madness.

[Pavlov]

I don't get this insistence on getting something in return. You want to try to get something good in return. Tobias Harris would pretty useless in a rebuild and late lottery picks aren't all that valuable unless RC sees someone he absolutely loves still available like Kawhi in 2011. If that's the case then yeah you make that deal. But that's the only way I see it.Harris is expiring. We either want picks or we don't. Praying that Kawhi's uncle changes his mind just doesn't seem like the best strategy to me.

[John B]

Best Post Yet + 100000

And miss out getting lottery pick on the draft to rebuild? I think they are not trading Kawhi. And convinced that they can bring in a big talent prior to signing

[baseline bum]

But if we're dumping all the other vets, we can get younger players and picks for them.

If we're blowing it up, blow it up now. If cockblocking the Lakers is a priority, the Clippers are still the best option. Holding onto a guy who has already been willing to fake an injury for a year is madness.

They won't be able to trade Harris for months and you think you're getting better prospects and picks from moving him than from Kawhi who can no longer go to the Lakers without taking a big pay cut? There is no reason to move him for pennies on the dollar right now unless Buford absolutely loves someone in the draft at 12. If James and PG13 go to LA and the Spurs haven't capitulated by then that means the Lakers are likely to go out and sign Cousins. The super team in LA dream dies and now Boston and Philly aren't scared of him taking a $40 million paycut to join LA's B-team and be second round fodder when he can win titles and get paid in the East in a big market.

[MaNu4Tres]

Laugh at sauces all you want but I'm hearing Suns and a deal centered around 16th, JJ and Payton.

Ainge made Brown & Tatum untouchable ( Kyrie & 27th is what's there)

Lakers haven't blinked.

Lakers stil havent blinked.