Monastery of Luka Samanic

[Texas_Ranger]

What is this bertans vs Samanic bullshit. I watched them both when they were in Europe and Bertans was better. Samanic not only was not worth a 1st round pick, but hes a shitty professional. I have friends that work for Olimpija and there is no one from the players, to the staff that will tell you a good thing about the guy. As my friend told me, in 5 years he was there, Samanic was the most unprofessional guy on the team he ever saw.

Its also time to decide what to do with him. Play him or fucking trade him.

[Dejounte]

the stats you posted (the link) clear as day said it was from the Latvia under 19 team and it was 8 games. I posted career stats for Bertans.

I personally think and have posted continuously that Luka will get better (don’t know if he will fulfill his total potential) but I’ve also pointed out that so far he hasn’t been a good shooter which data has backed up. I’ve been consistent with my stance and pretty straight forward. I have no clue why you came off the way you did but I find it hilarious that you came at me loud and wrong as fuck. Lmao.

And that’s the problem. Career stats past the age of 21 are irrelevant. Anyway, I brought up Bertans as an optimum shooter projection for Luka when that might not be fair.

*The rest of my posts tonight are going to be brief so unless you have a lullaby for me tonight, it’s not going to be a lot of content for now.

[Dejounte]

What is this bertans vs Samanic bullshit. I watched them both when they were in Europe and Bertans was better. Samanic not only was not worth a 1st round pick, but hes a shitty professional. I have friends that work for Olimpija and there is no one from the players, to the staff that will tell you a good thing about the guy. As my friend told me, in 5 years he was there, Samanic was the most unprofessional guy on the team he ever saw.

Its also time to decide what to do with him. Play him or fucking trade him.

*yawn* so obvious

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Anyway, hopefully Samanic gets better and I understand why the Spurs drafted the guy.

he hasn’t been a good shooter in his short basketball career (Europe, Summer league, preseason, G League, and NBA) no matter what anybody is trying to state, but he is young enough to get better if he puts in the work and things go in his favor.

These are things that I’ve consistently posted on this site and hopefully for our Spurs sake he maximizes his potential on this team.

[BackHome]

Every Spurs player has things they do good and things they need to work on and things they are just terrible at.
Good - White Defense
Need to work on - Lonnie finishing at the rim
Things they are terrible at - Poodle outside shooting

So yeah Luka may not be a great 3 point shooter right now but that’s something he will work on. As far as what he is good at he displayed great help side defense and ability to guard multiple positions. One thing that I noticed is he has quick feet which really helps him on put backs. I have always liked him never had a concern as far as basketball talent my only concern was his attitude/professionalism to the game. Lots of great talented athletes have been drafted only to flame out real quick because they didn’t take the game serious. But hearing a lot of good things about him lends me to believe that he has grown up.

Another thing to remember he is still really young and he was drafted as a project much like Walker. So understand projects take longer add that he is a big man which are notoriously slow to develop

[exstatic]

What is this bertans vs Samanic bullshit. I watched them both when they were in Europe and Bertans was better. Samanic not only was not worth a 1st round pick, but hes a shitty professional. I have friends that work for Olimpija and there is no one from the players, to the staff that will tell you a good thing about the guy. As my friend told me, in 5 years he was there, Samanic was the most unprofessional guy on the team he ever saw.

Its also time to decide what to do with him. Play him or fucking trade him.

I would hate for people to judge my professionalism based on what I did, and how I acted from 14-19 YO.

[PrimeMinister]

Say it with me

Luka Samanic will crack the rotation and be a factor next year with strong defense and rebounding.

if you watched the games last year it was clear in his minutes he is a huge plus in both of those departments. The scoring can take time to develop but the foundation of something is clearly there.

I think I have to remind myself how many people box score watch and didn’t even bother to watch the gleague games to see how he developed from early to mid season and then in his subsequent return to the nba. The knicks and clippers games were both great performances from him in a season with limited opportunity.

Seriously, go rewatch that knicks game if you’re bored and watch Luka. That is a player with an immediate ability to contribute every single night.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Say it with me

Luka Samanic will crack the rotation and be a factor next year with strong defense and rebounding.

if you watched the games last year it was clear in his minutes he is a huge plus in both of those departments. The scoring can take time to develop but the foundation of something is clearly there.

I think I have to remind myself how many people box score watch and didn’t even bother to watch the gleague games to see how he developed from early to mid season and then in his subsequent return to the nba. The knicks and clippers games were both great performances from him in a season with limited opportunity.

Seriously, go rewatch that knicks game if you’re bored and watch Luka. That is a player with an immediate ability to contribute every single night.

Only Pop couldn’t see it. If Derozan and Gay sign elsewhere I can see him in the running for MIP.

[Dejounte]

Say it with me

Luka Samanic will crack the rotation and be a factor next year with strong defense and rebounding.

if you watched the games last year it was clear in his minutes he is a huge plus in both of those departments. The scoring can take time to develop but the foundation of something is clearly there.

I think I have to remind myself how many people box score watch and didn’t even bother to watch the gleague games to see how he developed from early to mid season and then in his subsequent return to the nba. The knicks and clippers games were both great performances from him in a season with limited opportunity.

Seriously, go rewatch that knicks game if you’re bored and watch Luka. That is a player with an immediate ability to contribute every single night.

The only thing that will stop him from regular minutes next season is what goes on behind the scenes. I won’t claim to know what goes on behind the scenes, nor will I make up imaginary friends with imaginary testimonials. IMO, there’s no performance benchmark he needs to meet, anytime he was put in the line-up (non-garbage time) the defense improved as a whole. Let’s hope he meets the team’s level of expectation in the locker room or else it’s time to move on.

Edit: I’m not saying he didn’t get regular minutes this past season due to being a malcontent. I think it was another reason. I’m saying that that would be the reason he wouldn’t get minutes for next season. It’s Luka’s minutes to lose.

[Dejounte]

CP-d0N2rNAl

Luka is joining the Croatian national team.

[slick'81]

Can we just wait and see what he and lonnie do this season? Especially when bums like demar and patty are jettisoned(hopefully)

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

CP-d0N2rNAl

Luka is joining the Croatian national team.

thats a great thing barring injuries.

I’m sure being around his National team can only help with his confidence.

[TD 21]

Say it with me

Luka Samanic will crack the rotation and be a factor next year with strong defense and rebounding.

if you watched the games last year it was clear in his minutes he is a huge plus in both of those departments. The scoring can take time to develop but the foundation of something is clearly there.

I think I have to remind myself how many people box score watch and didn’t even bother to watch the gleague games to see how he developed from early to mid season and then in his subsequent return to the nba. The knicks and clippers games were both great performances from him in a season with limited opportunity.

Seriously, go rewatch that knicks game if you’re bored and watch Luka. That is a player with an immediate ability to contribute every single night.

Kind of. He'll probably be something like the 11th man, but given how rare it is for the top 9-10 on any team to be intact with any consistency, he'll still be in line to play a good amount of minutes.

He's a poor rebounder, but as I've said since he was drafted, all these physical tools and ball skills don't matter if you can't fit into a defined role and for him, it's going to mostly come down to his 3. If he becomes a credible enough shooter that the defense regards him as a threat, he should be a rotation player. If not, he's a fringe player.

[Truth4sale$]

Luka's first two years have been stunted with the pandemic and veteran players ahead of him. He can't really show coaches what he can do with limited playing time both in games and practice sessions during the season.
Did anyone notice when he was in games, he hardly touched the ball? Hard to show what you can do when you can't get in a rhythm. Rudy and Mills constantly played two man ball, best thing for Luka is play in the national team and continue to improve

[ace3g]

CP-d0N2rNAl

Luka is joining the Croatian national team.

CQJIWVIrzqO

[rjv]

Say it with me

Luka Samanic will crack the rotation and be a factor next year with strong defense and rebounding.

if you watched the games last year it was clear in his minutes he is a huge plus in both of those departments. The scoring can take time to develop but the foundation of something is clearly there.

I think I have to remind myself how many people box score watch and didn’t even bother to watch the gleague games to see how he developed from early to mid season and then in his subsequent return to the nba. The knicks and clippers games were both great performances from him in a season with limited opportunity.

Seriously, go rewatch that knicks game if you’re bored and watch Luka. That is a player with an immediate ability to contribute every single night.

especially on the defensive side of the ball-he was very efficient and surprisingly adept. he also rebounded quite well. Luka's 2nd half of the season was very encouraging (with the exception of a few subpar outings-most noticeably the 76ers game, but then the whole squad was awful that night).

[J_Paco]

What is this bertans vs Samanic bullshit. I watched them both when they were in Europe and Bertans was better. Samanic not only was not worth a 1st round pick, but hes a shitty professional. I have friends that work for Olimpija and there is no one from the players, to the staff that will tell you a good thing about the guy. As my friend told me, in 5 years he was there, Samanic was the most unprofessional guy on the team he ever saw.

Its also time to decide what to do with him. Play him or fucking trade him.

That's also when Davis was a SF prospect and had two good knees.

Luka could just stand under the hoop and he'd be a better rebounder than the anemic Bertans, plus he's shown way more defensive potential in his short NBA court time than Davis ever has.

He'll likely never be the shooter that Davis has been, but I'd take everything else (or anything) that Davis is underwhelming at.

[offset formation]

CQJIWVIrzqO

Luka is going to grow exponentially from this. He's going to gain so much self confidence having gone home and played with dudes that used to be taller, stronger and better than he was the last time he saw and competed against them.

btw, peep where Luka's head is on that dunk. rim high. homey has hops.

[slick'81]

Happy the 21 y/0 luka is continuing to mature and develop

[rjv]

so, with Luka joining the Croatian National Team, that likely keeps him out of the summer league.

[offset formation]

so, with Luka joining the Croatian National Team, that likely keeps him out of the summer league.

Isn't the SL after the Olympics? We are less than 30 days out from them, if they even occur. Japanese public is really trying to shut them down.

Obviously playoffs are still in full swing.

[rjv]

Isn't the SL after the Olympics? We are less than 30 days out from them, if they even occur. Japanese public is really trying to shut them down.

Obviously playoffs are still in full swing.

I guess there's a chance he would still be able to make it. The Olympics officially end on August 8th, which is the same day that the summer league is set to start. IOC seems hell bent on going ahead even though only 3% of Japan's population has been fully vaccinated.

[exstatic]

Luka is going to grow exponentially from this. He's going to gain so much self confidence having gone home and played with dudes that used to be taller, stronger and better than he was the last time he saw and competed against them.

btw, peep where Luka's head is on that dunk. rim high. homey has hops.

Where the hall have you been? His MAX vertical was measured at 38” at the combine. A 6’10” dude with a 38. To put that in perspective, 6’5” Lonnie Walker has a 40” vert, and everyone slobbers all over his highlights.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/samanicluka/status/1404915609251586060?s=21

[offset formation]

Where the hall have you been? His MAX vertical was measured at 38” at the combine. A 6’10” dude with a 38. To put that in perspective, 6’5” Lonnie Walker has a 40” vert, and everyone slobbers all over his highlights.

Was 6'9.5" actually. He's probably 6'11" now and probably has a 40"

That was my 2nd point. Dude is getting up. Just thought the Pic garnered a comment. I'll check with you next time tho.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Kind of. He'll probably be something like the 11th man, but given how rare it is for the top 910 on any team to be intact with any consistency, he'll still be in line to play a good amount of minutes.

He's a poor rebounder, but as I've said since he was drafted, all these physical tools and ball skills don't matter if you can't fit into a defined role and for him, it's going to mostly come down to his 3. If he becomes a credible enough shooter that the defense regards him as a threat, he should be a rotation player. If not, he's a fringe player.

Wow. Where you even watching the games? Saminic has the best combo of size and rebounding technique on the team. He tracks the shot extremely well and blocks out. Defensively during the COVID stretch opponents shot only 38% against him—best in the league over that stretch. If he develops any consistency on his 3 he’s going to be a monster 2 way player. I believe he will be a candidate for the MIP this year.

[ace3g]

Croatia has a game vs Slovenia today per their IG page.

CQLFWgDL5iX

CQMD99Pl2sd

[Texas_Ranger]

Played like shit vs Slovenia banter team. Looked pathetic vs our bigs who are a joke.

His tattoo did look nice.

[TD 21]

Wow. Where you even watching the games? Saminic has the best combo of size and rebounding technique on the team. He tracks the shot extremely well and blocks out. Defensively during the COVID stretch opponents shot only 38% against him—best in the league over that stretch. If he develops any consistency on his 3 he’s going to be a monster 2 way player. I believe he will be a candidate for the MIP this year.

:lmao Samanic is a lightweight with t-rex arms. His career defensive rebound % is 18.6 and total rebound % is 11.7, both of which are paltry figures for a big (and spare me the small sample size or he's not a finished product retort; rebounding doesn't work like that).

Wrong. The 3 isn't icing on the cake like you're intimating, it's essential and he has no chance to be a MIP candidate.

The hyperbole surrounding the youth on this board is insane.

[koriwhat]

Played like shit vs Slovenia banter team. Looked pathetic vs our bigs who are a joke.

His tattoo did look nice.

He goes to a dude out of California for his work. I can't remember the dudes name off the top of my head though. Jessy or some shit. He mainly does black & grey work and pretty damn decently too especially for how long he's been tattooing which isn't long at all.

[ace3g]

Only thing I'm mad about in a friendly is the 1-4 at the FT line...

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891548/bs_en_AU.html

https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/200350655_4080301692050059_5327895323012752010_n.j pg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=NtOLWiFbH84AX8ZZV_z&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=71b56e7ace33253fdd4e0529e063b545&oe=60CF03CC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E4BnWGkVgAE39kX?format=jpg&name=large (https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891548/bs_en_AU.html)

[rjv]

Only thing I'm mad about in a friendly is the 1-4 at the FT line...

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891548/bs_en_AU.html

7 boards in 15 minutes is nice.

[keithington1]

Only thing I'm mad about in a friendly is the 1-4 at the FT line...

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891548/bs_en_AU.html

https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/200350655_4080301692050059_5327895323012752010_n.j pg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=730e14&_nc_ohc=NtOLWiFbH84AX8ZZV_z&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=71b56e7ace33253fdd4e0529e063b545&oe=60CF03CC

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E4BnWGkVgAE39kX?format=jpg&name=large (https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891548/bs_en_AU.html)his tat ain’t even peel yet, ouch

[Texas_Ranger]

7 boards in 15 minutes is nice.

you should see Slovenian centers. They cant jump, so its not that special. We also played a lot of the time from 3rd to 4th quarter with some weird lineup that had a center and 4 guards. My problem whit Luka was, that his shot still looks bad and under the rim he kinda looks scared. He is quick for his size, but idk if this will help him that much. On friday it's a second game and Samanic will face an even bigger problem as Doncic and a real center will be playing.

[SAGirl]

That guy “defending the rim” looking sideways and away from the play tells a lot about that level of game.

[The Truth #6]

That guy “defending the rim” looking sideways and away from the play tells a lot about that level of game.

True.

[SpursDynasty85]

Darn. Knew there was something off on the way he finishes around the rim. He has small hands. Takes him a while to grip the ball. His potential will be greater as an outside player more than a slasher and post up guy looks like.

[rjv]

you should see Slovenian centers. They cant jump, so its not that special. We also played a lot of the time from 3rd to 4th quarter with some weird lineup that had a center and 4 guards. My problem whit Luka was, that his shot still looks bad and under the rim he kinda looks scared. He is quick for his size, but idk if this will help him that much. On friday it's a second game and Samanic will face an even bigger problem as Doncic and a real center will be playing.

yes, but rebounding is more than just jumping; it's also about being in the right position, especially for offensive boards. and the one thing that luka did consistently show this season is that he does have a knack for getting to the ball. better competition is always good though so friday will be interesting as will the rest of luka's time during international play.

[John B]

That guy “defending the rim” looking sideways and away from the play tells a lot about that level of game.

Either that or Luka nimbly did a wicked euro-step to go around him :lol

[SAGirl]

Either that or Luka nimbly did a wicked euro-step to go around him :lol
Either way, that’s some Forbes level shit tbh.

[ace3g]

Link to game in progress

https://localnow.com/channels/for-the-fans

[ace3g]

FIBA live stats link

https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/

[John B]

Link to game in progress

https://localnow.com/channels/for-the-fans

Great! Thanks.

[ace3g]

Apparently Luka had a nice contest to prevent a layup and then got benched moments later. Only played like 1:47; looks like he has checked back in now.

[ace3g]

So far Mario the MVP for Croatia



No.
Player
POS
Mins
Pts
FG
FG%
2P
2P%
3P
3P%
FT
FT%
OFF
DEF
REB
AST
TO
STL
BLK
BLKR
PF
Fls on
+/-
Index



STARTERS


2
M. Bilan (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


15:15
8
4-6
66
4-6
66
0-0
0
0-2
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
1
0
1
5
7
3


10
R. Ukić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#) (C)
PG
14:16
12
5-9
55
3-3
100
2-6
33
0-0
0
0
1
1
3
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
12


12
P. Marčinković (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


5:47
1
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
1-3
33
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
-10
0


23
M. Drežnjak (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


4:31
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
1
-6
2


33
Ž. Šakić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


7:04
0
0-2
0
0-1
0
0-1
0
0-0
0
1
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
-12
0



BENCH


1
T. Perković (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


14:13
3
1-1
100
0-0
0
1-1
100
0-0
0
0
3
3
2
0
0
0
0
3
0
12
8


6
T. Katić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


0:00
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0


8
M. Hezonja (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


15:29
21
8-11
72
4-6
66
4-5
80
1-2
50
0
3
3
3
1
2
0
1
1
1
8
24


19
L. Šamanić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


4:45
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
-5
0


26
L. Babić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


12:56
2
1-3
33
1-1
100
0-2
0
0-0
0
0
1
1
2
0
0
0
0
1
1
14
3


32
R. Rogić (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


5:44
5
1-2
50
0-1
0
1-1
100
2-2
100
0
0
0




1
0
0
0
4
1
1
4


55
A. Jordano (https://livestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/KZS/1891216/bs.html#)


0:00
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0-0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0



Team / Coach











1
0
1

0



0






TEAM TOTALS


52
20-34
58
12-18
66
8-16
50
4-9
44
3
10
13
12
5
3
1
1
12
12


57

[ace3g]

PERIOD 2
00:00


SLO
26
24


50


HRV
15
37


52

[rjv]

Apparently Luka had a nice contest to prevent a layup and then got benched moments later. Only played like 1:47; looks like he has checked back in now.

yeah, looks like he logged less than five minutes in that first half.

[John B]

Apparently Luka had a nice contest to prevent a layup and then got benched moments later. Only played like 1:47; looks like he has checked back in now.

I'm not getting a video feed. Luka zero pts in 5 mins of play?

[ace3g]

I'm not getting a video feed. Luka zero pts in 5 mins of play?

It is halftime right now, can also try this link: https://www.distro.tv/live/eleven-sports

In regards to 0 points in 5 minutes, first time really seeing the Croatia team play, not sure what his role is with the team; he isn't a starter.

[rjv]

I'm not getting a video feed. Luka zero pts in 5 mins of play?

and the other luka has 4 points in about 12 minutes of play.

[ace3g]

PERIOD 3
05:42


SLO
26
24
6

56


HRV
15
37
12

64

[rjv]

mavs luka starting to assert himself now.

[ace3g]

PERIOD 3
01:32


SLO
26
24
17

67


HRV
15
37
16

68

[John B]

while the other Luka has 8 pts and 10 assist :lol

[ace3g]

Big run to end 3rd quarter by Slovenia

PERIOD 4
09:45


SLO
26
24
27
0
77


HRV
15
37
18
0
70

[ace3g]

Luka with his patent spin move along the baseline, passes to Mario in the corner who missed the 3.

[ace3g]

Mario bulldozes his way to the basket for the layup.

75-77

[John B]

Luka sitting now and still score less?

[ace3g]

Luka missed a 3 from the top of the key.

[rjv]

luka just subbed out-likely done for the game. he had a couple of rebounds and missed the two shots he took (a floater and a three).

[ace3g]

Big 3 by Slovenia, 9 point game

PERIOD 4
03:11


SLO
26
24
27
11
88


HRV
15
37
18
9
79

[John B]

Samanic doesn't look very big out there, yet he seems fast closing in. He moves more like a tall small forward

[rjv]

Samanic doesn't look very big out there, yet he seems fast closing in. He moves more like a tall small forward

it's great to see him at least getting some minutes as the experience is great for his development.

[ace3g]

Slovenia gets the win

PERIOD 4
00:00


SLO
26
24
27
20
97


HRV
15
37
18
18
88

[slick'81]

So how did our boy luka look?

[John B]

So how did our boy luka look?

Zero point and 2 rebounds in 10 mins(?) of play. He looks like he needs practice with the guys first. But he looks fast. He did a quick spin at the post on his defender for a pass to an open guy at the corner 3.

[Sugus]

Zero point and 2 rebounds in 10 mins(?) of play. He looks like he needs practice with the guys first. But he looks fast. He did a quick spin at the post on his defender for a pass to an open guy at the corner 3.

It'd be interesting to see Luka continue to try and develop into a SF/PF hybrid. It's certainly more profitable to be a wing than a big in the modern NBA... Though we already kind of have that archetype covered with Keldon. We'll see. Do you know how many games this NT will play? I have literally no idea what the schedule is, the games to be played, and that sort of things. Hope he gets more of a chance to show himself, 10m is hardly sufficient time (as long as he's productive on the court, of course).

[ace3g]

These were just friendly games.

Here is the schedule for Croatia's qualifying tournament.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E4M-_wMWQAELWav?format=png&name=large

http://www.fiba.basketball/bundles/Penceo/brandings/f4584d6e-c9e4-4630-8e16-9b8a8781916b/Logo_en.svg?v=20210113120157

** I also wasn't thinking of it immediately but maybe (hoping) the NT team is limiting his minutes as Luka is returning from the hand fracture suffered in May.

[Texas_Ranger]

So how did our boy luka look?

bad.

[offset formation]

bad.

Show me where on the doll that Luka touched you.

[Texas_Ranger]

Show me where on the doll that Luka touched you.

He had 2 rebounds and did nothing. Wtf do u want me to tell u, that he played great?

[dbestpro]

He had 2 rebounds and did nothing. Wtf do u want me to tell u, that he played great?

So you must be a 10 minute man.

[KobesAchilles]

Bc of FIBA Patty I take nothing a player does on the national team seriously. They can play good or they can play like shit. It doesn’t matter to me. But I hope he continues to work on whatever the fuck we told him to work on during the exit interviews

[John B]

I think Luka is just getting acclimated with his teammates still. He was barely part of the offense so nothing to see there.

[Dejounte]

Show me where on the doll that Luka touched you.

:lmao

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

ace3g

You are the real MVP. Putting up the links, stats, and schedule is an awesome thing to do. Greatly appreciated

[John B]

ace3g (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=2345)

You are the real MVP. Putting up the links, stats, and schedule is an awesome thing to do. Greatly appreciated

Agree :bobo

[ace3g]

Luka and Croatia will get some help.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/682030438702018565/2fFqUqj2_normal.png
Eurohoops @Eurohoopsnet
(https://twitter.com/Eurohoopsnet) 2m (https://twitter.com/Eurohoopsnet/status/1406335411539042307)
Bojan Bogdanovic will join Croatia in the Olympic Qualifiers eurohoops.net/en/national-te… (https://t.co/3E1r6O5f7b)

[ace3g]

ace3g (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=2345)

You are the real MVP. Putting up the links, stats, and schedule is an awesome thing to do. Greatly appreciated


Agree :bobo

Appreciate it :toast

[tonight...you]

These were just friendly games.

** I also wasn't thinking of it immediately but maybe (hoping) the NT team is limiting his minutes as Luka is returning from the hand fracture suffered in May.
This is something that should absolutely be considered.

[slick'81]

Nobody is taking what weve seen from luka soo far seriously .

[ace3g]

Nobody is taking what weve seen from luka soo far seriously .

Yep these are glorified preseason games, we don't really know what the rotations will be like till the qualifying tournament begins.

[BackHome]

Show me where on the doll that Luka touched you.

:lmao

[Sugus]

This is something that should absolutely be considered.

I didn't even remember he'd broken his hand. What the fuck is he doing playing basketball of all things, less than 2 months later??

I broke my own hand in fucking January and still can't/shouldn't go play pickup ball, nevermind an NBA/NT game with actual stakes and stuff. Repetitive motions and weight pressure are both advised against during the healing process. Of course, Luka has access to medical facilities, staff, and rehab programs that I couldn't dream of, but it's still insane to me. I'm definitely taking these performances with a grain of salt, hope he's 100% for training camp come next season.

[ace3g]

Croatia had a game against Puerto Rico today and have another friendly tomorrow. Doesn't look like Luka played at all.

Today's game stats

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891980/

Tomorrow's FIBA stats link

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891981/

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Hopefully everything is okay with him and it isn’t anything serious that kept him out of the game with Puerto Rico

[rjv]

Hopefully everything is okay with him and it isn’t anything serious that kept him out of the game with Puerto Rico

from what i can tell, it looks as if there was a different rotation this go around.

[ace3g]

based on this he might have taken the day off to get some more ink work done

CQel90nD1zN

[Gagnrath]

he definitely improved from his first season from the few outings he got. I think (hope anyway) he has a decent chances of staying in the NBA for a long time but I feel some folks are over hyping the few flashes he has shown. Unless he makes a seriously huge jump I don’t see him being some offensive hub that a decent amount of the folks on here believe.

He still has issues finishing in traffic and through contact, his shooting (no matter how pretty his form is) hasn’t been consistent, he doesn’t have a strong go to or counter post move, his handle isn’t tight enough to ask him to beat players (not folks closing hard due to the threat of the jumper) on the perimeter straight up, and he has turnover issues due to all the items mentioned above.

that is just a few (not all) offensive deficiencies I’ve noticed and I will not even get into defense.


I’m rooting for the guy and think he still has a chance to be an NBA player but if he doesn’t figure it out and get run next season……..

What I see is a guy with a decent looking three that goes game by game and is a bit streaky. Not someone to run an offense through but with potential to build on and very young. At this point his size and athletic ability mean run him as a role player on offense until you develop the guy into a more finished product and see what you are going to end up with. If his size comes together bwith his shot you have a decent stretch big. If size and athletics come together you have a decent power forward. If all three happen you have lightening in a bottle and your mid first rounder becomes a multi- year all star. If he's just a talk fairly athletic guy he's gonna bounce around the league at the end of benches till he's thirty. You get to feel special because three late first rounders from that draft you will have missed on for him. But overall it's ok because your mid first rounder didn't work out and your late first round guy did.

[ace3g]

Doesn't look like he played in the 2nd friendly vs Puerto Rico either...

https://fibalivestats.dcd.shared.geniussports.com/u/HKS/1891981/bs_en_AU.html

[spurraider21]

going into year 3 and still no certainty that he's even a rotation player... ugh. he showed a lot of promise during one stretch around midseason or tho, particularly the knicks game.

[rjv]

i'm not going to assume anything about the friendlies without knowing anything in depth about the Croatian National Team but i do hope we get to see Samanic play some meaningful minutes during his stint with the team.

[rjv]

also, not sure if the addition of bogdanovic, who was not available for the slovanian games, has impacted luka's minutes.

[SpurSpike]

Lets just hope the completion of his arm sleeve is symbolic of his growth as a player...

[GreekSpursfan]

I see no muscle, is he even lifting weights. I don't see it with him, hope i'm wrong

[slick'81]

Lets just hope the completion of his arm sleeve is symbolic of his growth as a player...


It is a pretty sweet looking tat

[Texas_Ranger]

Looks like he will be cut from the national team. And even if hes not he wont be playing a lot in the tournament. Thats pretty sad, as Croatia has just like 4 good players on the roster (Bogdanovic, Hezonja, Zizic, Bilan)

[BackHome]

Is that based on facts or are you just pulling shit out of your ass?

[HankChinaski]

How is he going to lift weights while he was recovering from a broken hand?

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Looks like he will be cut from the national team. And even if hes not he wont be playing a lot in the tournament. Thats pretty sad, as Croatia has just like 4 good players on the roster (Bogdanovic, Hezonja, Zizic, Bilan)

That would be a shock. How many current NBA players can't make their country's rosters outside of the U.S.? I'd venture the number to be zero.

[tonight...you]

That would be a shock. How many current NBA players can't make their country's rosters outside of the U.S.? I'd venture the number to be zero.
I wonder if it has anything to do with the previously broken hand.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I wonder if it has anything to do with the previously broken hand.

Agreed. Being out for rehabbing an injury is a lot different than just being cut.

[Texas_Ranger]

Is that based on facts or are you just pulling shit out of your ass?

he didnt play the last 2 games before the tournament starts and the 2 games he played before that, he was shit. So, cutting him is not something out of the blue.

also, if he did get his tattoo done this week, there is no way he will be making the team, cause that would mean he's in Miami.

[ace3g]

Rough translation from Croatian website - but we have our answer about Luka.


UNDER "BALLOON", THEN THE DECISION ON EXCESSIVE TWO
The qualifying tournament will be played under strict epidemiological measures. Therefore, all participants in the so-called. "Balloon" to reduce their contact with the environment. During the three-week preparations for the tournament, coach Veljko Mršić had 15 players at his disposal. After the introductory part, due to the still unhealed injury, the young Luka Šamanić dropped out. Of the current 14 players, two will be outnumbered, and who they are, the coach will announce on Monday, when we will know with which staff we are going into battle for the Olympics. The list includes: Toni Perkovic, Miro Bilan, Toni Katic, Mario Hezonja, Roko-Leni Ukic, Pavle Marcinkovic, Darko Planinic, Mateo Dreznjak, Luka Babic, Roko Rogic, Zeljko Sakic, Ante Zizic, Bojan Bogdanovic and Antonio Jordano.

https://www.glas-slavonije.hr/467530/6/Cetiri-utakmice-za-uigravanje-sada-slijedi-ono-pravo

[Texas_Ranger]

ok, so he dropped out cause of the injury. Croatia is actually gonna play the tournament with no PF. Guess they'll be using Bogdanovic or Zizic on that position.

[PhantomDashCam]

Rough translation from Croatian website - but we have our answer about Luka.



https://www.glas-slavonije.hr/467530/6/Cetiri-utakmice-za-uigravanje-sada-slijedi-ono-pravo

Thanks ace3g.

Hate to sound selfish, (as I know how big National team commitments are to some of the players,) but hopefully he gets to spend some time with the development coaches, attends Summer League with the Spurs.

There’s a real chance to earn not only rotation minutes but potentially a starting role too.

[SAGirl]

It’s strange he would have gone and played in two games with an unhealed injury. I believe he wouldn’t be able to play without Spurs permission if he was injured. I remember something like that from Manu one time. The Spurs didn’t grant him leave to play one summer because he had a stress fracture.

My guess is that the fracture has healed and physically he’s fine bu he needs strength and conditioning to get back in basketball shape and IMO, very likely a lot of repetition and practice with his shot. This was really my concern with the hand injury, that it would affect his training regimen and shooting practices.

Anyways, thanks for sharing Ace, nice find. Now we’ll have to see if he can play in summer league, and if he does I wouldn’t expect him to shoot well. It sucks that he got injured when he did because he needs a good summer to be ready to compete next season.

[ace3g]

His most recent IG story.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E41xUW-WQAkvWs3?format=png&name=large

[wildbill2u]

If he misses Summer League, for whatever reason, He's gonna be further behind in his development. He has to play big minutes next season to stay alive in the competition of the team. Time waits for no Croatian.

[Trill Clinton]

This guy is so boring. All we get from him in the off season is new tattoos.

[buttsR4rebounding]

All you people dissing Luka are going to be eating crow. By the end of next season he he going to be considered our best young prospect.

[mo7888]

All you people dissing Luka are going to be eating crow. By the end of next season he he going to be considered our best young prospect.

I like Luka...I think he has more upside/talent than anyone on our roster....that said, he's going to have to show a work ethic to get there. His shooting MUST improve drastically between now and the start of the season and it'll take work to get there....he absolutely can do it but he needs to show a mentality of dogged effort that he hasn't shown yet to reach it.

[Sugus]

Rough translation from Croatian website - but we have our answer about Luka.



https://www.glas-slavonije.hr/467530/6/Cetiri-utakmice-za-uigravanje-sada-slijedi-ono-pravo

Wow, who could've thought a broken hand wouldn't be healed in less than two fucking months for playing basketball purposes. I really wonder sometimes about these medical staffs, how irresponsible they can be, when a players' health is by far their biggest asset and determinator for how their careers will pan out. Luka got off just fine it seems, but re-injuries are extremely common with these sorts of fractures and trying to force your way back into the court earlier than expected. You'd have thought a professional NT player would have better advisors around him...

[jjspur]

You know the spurs are probably signing 3 to 4 new players, one or two which may play his position and could/should be better than him. Not to mention the spurs will have at least 2 new draft picks and summer league players or camp invites. Dare I say maybe a player from a trade. Talk about competition. Usually the spurs don't do anything drastic, but this off season already seems a bit different.
That tall tattooed Croatian needs to get his crap together or else its going to be another really long season on the bench or in the G League , no matter how much potential he has. After that who knows. Decision time is coming real fast for him and the spurs.

[Dejounte]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4DenaIt1ds

[bluebellmaniac]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4DenaIt1ds

Ain't gonna lie... I have no clue what I saw in this short clip. Even after watching it like 10 times.

[slick'81]

Ain't gonna lie... I have no clue what I saw in this short clip. Even after watching it like 10 times.


Clearly luka,and tre taking a jump shot. Wether or not they went in wtf knows:lol

[CGD]

Is this guy doing anything in the Olympics?

[SPURt]

Is this guy doing anything in the Olympics?
Nope, Croatia didn’t get to the olympics.

[rjv]

Croatia didn't make it and Luka withdrew from the team because of his hand injury.

[John B]

With Demar probably gone, it’s boom or bust for Luka and Walker. They will get plenty of opportunities. I hope they’re hitting the gym and improving their game. Luka needs to shoot the lights out. He got nice form. He got lateral quickness, can guard multiple positions.

[rjv]

With Demar probably gone, it’s boom or bust for Luka and Walker. They will get plenty of opportunities. I hope they’re hitting the gym and improving their game. Luka needs to shoot the lights out. He got nice form. He got lateral quickness, can guard multiple positions.

luka will be one of the players i will be keenly interested in watching this season.

[RC_Drunkford]

Lol Luka won't play the first half of the season cause Rudy Gay is coming off the bench. No way Pop is letting Gay walk

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/SamanicLuka/status/1425208382059864071

https://twitter.com/hustlin_deals/status/1425115481015529474

[tonight...you]

Lol Luka won't play the first half of the season cause Rudy Gay is coming off the bench. No way Pop is letting Gay walk
Come again?

[LCM]

So he's working out at UTSA and not the Spurs facility??

[ace3g]

CSZKYpIHjWk

[KobesAchilles]

So he's working out at UTSA and not the Spurs facility??
Dude plays like he should be at UTSA. Guy is gonna go back to Europe after this stint with us. Hey being paid millions to play/live in Austin is a hella good deal. Swing and a miss for Brian Wrong

[tonight...you]

Dude plays like he should be at UTSA. Guy is gonna go back to Europe after this stint with us. Hey being paid millions to play/live in Austin is a hella good deal. Swing and a miss for Brian Wrong
I'mma give him this year.
His D was getting borderline Elite level when you consider his switchablility.

Just a bit more juice on the 3 ball, more focus and less weirdness by Pop on rotations and maybe, just maybe this kid can make some moves into a darn good player.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Samanic could be the most pleasant surprise of this coming season. It takes time, but he will be a star. Just be patient.

[itzsoweezee]

Why is he not playing summer league?

[RC_Drunkford]

Samanic could be the most pleasant surprise of this coming season. It takes time, but he will be a star. Just be patient.

I hope he gets a regular rotation spot. With how the team is looking right now, I don't see Pop playing him. Maybe after we trade away Young.

[Ditty]

Looks like he is training with Sean Dockery who used to play for Duke (His barber is the same as mine). Used to be part of player development for the Spurs and Grizzlies. Don’t know why he got out of it. He also works with Bryn and Eubanks during the offseason.

[slick'81]

Def a make or break year for luka& the spurs

[Trill Clinton]

1426353571319144462

Hilarious

[offset formation]

So he's working out at UTSA and not the Spurs facility??

actually an interesting question. why would he not be working out at Spurs' facilities? is there an issue with his trainer?

seems he should have access at any and all times...strange.

[Dejounte]

actually an interesting question. why would he not be working out at Spurs' facilities? is there an issue with his trainer?

seems he should have access at any and all times...strange.

Eubanks is there at UTSA too. The same question should be posed for Eubanks. As well as Forbes. Theyre all using the same trainer

[offset formation]

Eubanks is there at UTSA too. The same question should be posed for Eubanks. As well as Forbes. Theyre all using the same trainer

so an issue with this trainer then not being allowed on Spurs campus?

[Dejounte]

so an issue with this trainer then not being allowed on Spurs campus?


Yes exactly

[SpursDynasty85]

Looking forward to see him develop. Hopefully we see lots of growth with the big boys club. If he pans out then our front court looks a lot better.

[Russ]

actually an interesting question. why would he not be working out at Spurs' facilities? is there an issue with his trainer?

seems he should have access at any and all times...strange.

I think everyone who is normally at the Spurs facility is in Vegas.

There's probably no one there to even turn on the lights.

[ismael-robert]

That didn't look like any gym at utsa...more like a neighborhood school

[baseline bum]

Dude plays like he should be at UTSA. Guy is gonna go back to Europe after this stint with us. Hey being paid millions to play/live in Austin is a hella good deal. Swing and a miss for Brian Wrong

He's pretty good going around those traffic cones though, should have a big game when Chicago comes to town.

[offset formation]

He's pretty good going around those traffic cones though, should have a big game when Chicago comes to town.

ISWYDT.

[SAGirl]

Why is he not playing summer league?
Bc it’s voluntary for him and he thinks he has outgrown that stage, or doesn’t need it. We’ll see if he proves it.

[ismael-robert]

Oh yall spoke?

[John B]

I didn’t expect a tweet back, but Luka did after I wish him well in the coming season. I’ve always rooted for Luka and Lonnie to finally get loose out there. Win or loss, just learn by mistakes. Just as long as they’re playing hard defense. Keep pounding the rock. Spurs haven’t been doing that for awhile, but instead massaging vets egos. That wasn’t Spurs way. It’s a clean slate without the vets. Win or lose, it would be fun to watch them run. GSG.

[BillMc]

1426353571319144462

Hilarious

Where are these stats he's mentioning from?

EDIT: I guess the gleague as it says "gleague TV"

I guess its safe to say the "real Luka" plays somewhere in Texas.

[The Truth #6]

He’s training. Doing what he’s supposed to do. Hard to take much from this either way. Better than the Summer Camp style training bs of bows and arrows, canoeing, or whatever other stuff players sometimes do.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

I’m really hoping the young man earns solid minutes this season and shows he belongs in an actual legit NBA team’s rotation

[buttsR4rebounding]

Luka is going to be the story this year like KJ was last year. By the end of the year he will be starting.

[KobesAchilles]

Luka is going to be the story this year like KJ was last year. By the end of the year he will be starting.
For Austin

[exstatic]

Luka is going to be the story this year like KJ was last year. By the end of the year he will be starting.

He’s not going to be starting unless his long ball dramatically improves.

[jjspur]

Luka is going to be the story this year like KJ was last year. By the end of the year he will be starting.
This guy really needs to get his act together. Keldon was easily a better pick and has proven it. Devin got more prime time burn than he did last season. Trey Jones got a few minutes last year but looked real good in the summer league. The spurs were high on Primo and he didn't look bad in summer league, just inexperienced. I know these guys don't play the same position as Luka, but in the position less NBA you can have 5 smaller, good shooting, strong players on the court at once rather than a typical big like Luka. We always talk about his potential, but after 2 years its just not that quite what everybody thought it was. Sure he's shown flashes but you need more than that, especially if olympic Keldon, Primo, Trey, Devin have shown just as much potential if not a lot more. Dude really really needs to step it up this year.

[John B]

This guy really needs to get his act together. Keldon was easily a better pick and has proven it. Devin got more prime time burn than he did last season. Trey Jones got a few minutes last year but looked real good in the summer league. The spurs were high on Primo and he didn't look bad in summer league, just inexperienced. I know these guys don't play the same position as Luka, but in the position less NBA you can have 5 smaller, good shooting, strong players on the court at once rather than a typical big like Luka. We always talk about his potential, but after 2 years its just not that quite what everybody thought it was. Sure he's shown flashes but you need more than that, especially if olympic Keldon, Primo, Trey, Devin have shown just as much potential if not a lot more. Dude really really needs to step it up this year.

The log at the PF position didn’t help. Sure Tre was more poised, but the injury history in the PG position helped his cause. Vassell’ position as 3 and D was a need. Keldon had a break at the Bubble and he took off. I think Pop tried to insert Luka, but he was terribly outmatched going to the hole. He obviously needed to get stronger. Plus Pop wanted to give Rudy his chance to get his next contract. But all said, there’s no more excuse. It’s a boom or bust without the vets. I think he still has the biggest upside with his athleticism, him and Lonnie. I was excited for him at what he was able to do at the Bubble. The imminent signing of Jock and Zollins should also be a wake-up call. It’s telling for Luka this season.

[exstatic]

This guy really needs to get his act together. Keldon was easily a better pick and has proven it. Devin got more prime time burn than he did last season. Trey Jones got a few minutes last year but looked real good in the summer league. The spurs were high on Primo and he didn't look bad in summer league, just inexperienced. I know these guys don't play the same position as Luka, but in the position less NBA you can have 5 smaller, good shooting, strong players on the court at once rather than a typical big like Luka. We always talk about his potential, but after 2 years its just not that quite what everybody thought it was. Sure he's shown flashes but you need more than that, especially if olympic Keldon, Primo, Trey, Devin have shown just as much potential if not a lot more. Dude really really needs to step it up this year.

:lol Luka’s not a typical big. Typical bigs don’t put the ball on the floor outside the 3 pt. Line, and drive all the way to the cup. If anything, he’s an outsized 3.

[PrimeMinister]

Luka could have been the second coming of AK47 last season and he wasn’t getting minutes over Rudy gay and we should all be adult enough here to understand this

[exstatic]

Luka could have been the second coming of AK47 last season and he wasn’t getting minutes over Rudy gay and we should all be adult enough here to understand this

Kirilenko had multiple (3) 5X5 games. The only other player with more than 1 is Hakeem, with 6. Luka just would never be the defender needed to generate 5 steals and 5 blocks in one game. His development has been a bit slow, but if I have one REAL disappointment with him, it’s the fact that he’s an outrageous athlete, but doesn’t create defensive events. He should be a shot blocker at 6’10” with a 38” vert, but he isn’t.

[SAGirl]

The team added a few bigs and one forward (McD) that will take playing time, then there are suggestions like this:
1427397868592275459

Even with all the additions, the team is in flux, with few players with set roles and many competing for minutes. If he's ready he could earn playing time. Beating a duo of Bryn and Tre for minutes shouldn't be difficult for an NBA player. Collins is injured and an afterthought until spring next year. Jock is a center competing for a different role probably with Eubanks, maybe Jakob too.

He isn't dethroning Johnson or McDermott, but he could push some of these undersized microball lineups for a break. If he were good enough he could theoretically even start, allowing Keldon to play the 3. If he was good enough...

[Texas_Ranger]

Luka could have been the second coming of AK47 last season and he wasn’t getting minutes over Rudy gay and we should all be adult enough here to understand this

yea sure. why not say a second coming of Hakeem, just as Bryn Forbes could be a second coming of Steph Curry, if only he played 35 min and took 20 shots.

roflmao, comparing a scrub like samanic to kirilenko.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Kirilenko had multiple (3) 5X5 games. The only other player with more than 1 is Hakeem, with 6. Luka just would never be the defender needed to generate 5 steals and 5 blocks in one game. His development has been a bit slow, but if I have one REAL disappointment with him, it’s the fact that he’s an outrageous athlete, but doesn’t create defensive events. He should be a shot blocker at 6’10” with a 38” vert, but he isn’t.

I agree that he is more of 3 than a 4, but disagree on his defensive capabilities. He has elite lateral movement. During the 5 game stretch that he actually got playing time he held his man to 38% shooting. That was the lowest in the NBA over that stretch. Admittedly a very small sample size. Also over that period he was #1 on the Spurs in +/-. I know that isn't necessarily telling over a small window, but it used to be those were the type of performances that would earn you more time on the Spurs. It obviously didn't happen. I agree with John B that a bunch of that was doing right by Rudy and DDR. A line up of DJM, White, KJ, Poeltl, and Samanic would be an awesome defensive line up with KJ being the weak link. While it didn't produce the defensive events you refer to it was excellent defense nonetheless.

[dbestpro]

You all should know by now that Pop waits until everyone thinks a player is a bust before he unleashes them. Would not be surprised if Luka an Walker are the best players on the team by year's end.

[BacktoBasics]

You all should know by now that Pop waits until everyone thinks a player is a bust before he unleashes them. Would not be surprised if Luka an Walker are the best players on the team by year's end.

Some people here are All-Star or bust.

If Walker comes in and averages anywhere above 15ppg on 44% or better that’s a huge win.

If Luka can get 15mpg and show similar year 1 to year 2 improvement that Walker showed I’ll be ecstatic. I’d rather these guys develop slowly than turn into a Markannen or 40% chucker.

[Sugus]

I agree that he is more of 3 than a 4, but disagree on his defensive capabilities. He has elite lateral movement. During the 5 game stretch that he actually got playing time he held his man to 38% shooting. That was the lowest in the NBA over that stretch. Admittedly a very small sample size. Also over that period he was #1 on the Spurs in +/-. I know that isn't necessarily telling over a small window, but it used to be those were the type of performances that would earn you more time on the Spurs. It obviously didn't happen. I agree with John B that a bunch of that was doing right by Rudy and DDR. A line up of DJM, White, KJ, Poeltl, and Samanic would be an awesome defensive line up with KJ being the weak link. While it didn't produce the defensive events you refer to it was excellent defense nonetheless.

Not to mention it's much, much harder to even come close to a 5x5 in today's game due to the nature of modern shot profiles for teams. It's ridiculously harder to get 5 blocks and steals when teams are shooting mostly 3pt shots and you have to stand your ground as a big on the perimeter instead of camping in the paint and having opponents literally drive towards you for contested shots at the rim like they used to. Saying Luka can't become a Kirilenko-like player because he doesn't have a 5x5 is a weird strawman.

Having said that, I do believe Luka isn't the defender AK47 was. He has the potential to be a better offensive player though, IF his shot gets better, especially given his physical profile. If he could play the 3 and the 4.... Yum.

[R. DeMurre]

Kirilenko is a pretty high bar to set-- he was insanely effective even at the ages of 20 and 21 in the NBA. His advanced stats are elite and comparable to Manu's...

[TD 21]

Kirilenko had multiple (3) 5X5 games. The only other player with more than 1 is Hakeem, with 6. Luka just would never be the defender needed to generate 5 steals and 5 blocks in one game. His development has been a bit slow, but if I have one REAL disappointment with him, it’s the fact that he’s an outrageous athlete, but doesn’t create defensive events. He should be a shot blocker at 6’10” with a 38” vert, but he isn’t.

Defensive play making/disruption usually goes hand in hand with length though. Kirilenko supposedly has a 7'4'' wingpsan, while Samanic has a relatively paltry 6'10.5'' one.



I agree that he is more of 3 than a 4, but disagree on his defensive capabilities. He has elite lateral movement. During the 5 game stretch that he actually got playing time he held his man to 38% shooting. That was the lowest in the NBA over that stretch. Admittedly a very small sample size. Also over that period he was #1 on the Spurs in +/-. I know that isn't necessarily telling over a small window, but it used to be those were the type of performances that would earn you more time on the Spurs. It obviously didn't happen. I agree with John B that a bunch of that was doing right by Rudy and DDR. A line up of DJM, White, KJ, Poeltl, and Samanic would be an awesome defensive line up with KJ being the weak link. While it didn't produce the defensive events you refer to it was excellent defense nonetheless.

He's clearly a 4 in the modern NBA.

[objective]

Like with Lonnie, I'm not getting to attached to the idea of him being on the 15 man roster on opening night. Filler in a trade or just cut.

Not saying I agree with it, I'd like to see him get some legit chances. But I'm not counting on it.

[exstatic]

Like with Lonnie, I'm not getting to attached to the idea of him being on the 15 man roster on opening night. Filler in a trade or just cut.

Not saying I agree with it, I'd like to see him get some legit chances. But I'm not counting on it.
THEY’RE NOT GOING TO CUT HIM AND EAT NEARLY $3M.

[John B]

Like with Lonnie, I'm not getting to attached to the idea of him being on the 15 man roster on opening night. Filler in a trade or just cut.

Not saying I agree with it, I'd like to see him get some legit chances. But I'm not counting on it.

I think will see Luka early to see if he has it or not, then will get the Metu treatment if he doesn’t deliver. I think Luka needs to hit the ground running, or he would have a short NBA, or at least as a Spur. Funny how our bigs carved their careers somewhere else: Mahinmi, Baynes, Boban, Metu. I kniw with Boban, FA price was too much for the Spurs to resign him. Metu I didn’t mind :lol

[objective]

THEY’RE NOT GOING TO CUT HIM AND EAT NEARLY $3M.

They cut jaren Jackson and ate $3M and that was 20 years ago.

People are getting cut or traded just to make a 15 man roster.

Hutchinson is 4 million, Aminu would be 10

Hell they cut DeMarre Carroll and ate ... what? 10 million? I don't remember but it was a lot.

[PrimeMinister]

yea sure. why not say a second coming of Hakeem, just as Bryn Forbes could be a second coming of Steph Curry, if only he played 35 min and took 20 shots.

roflmao, comparing a scrub like samanic to kirilenko.

you really are dumb as fuck if you read my comment and thought I was calling him kirilenko

that horny to jump on someone? Fuck off.

[BacktoBasics]

This group is delusional. Luka isn’t Metu. That was an entirely different kind of project. They’re not adding him as filler(unless it’s franchise altering) or cutting him. He could have an identical season with minimal progress and he’ll be back for a third year.

They’ve put more time and exercised more patience with lessor prospects.

He’s most definitely viewed as a long term investment. This guy would have to shit the bed in biblical proportions or have some kind of public meltdown or run in with the law for him to be released.

This type of conversation would be much more relevant if he shows no progress this upcoming season.

[The Truth #6]

I agree that he is more of 3 than a 4, but disagree on his defensive capabilities. He has elite lateral movement. During the 5 game stretch that he actually got playing time he held his man to 38% shooting. That was the lowest in the NBA over that stretch. Admittedly a very small sample size. Also over that period he was #1 on the Spurs in +/-. I know that isn't necessarily telling over a small window, but it used to be those were the type of performances that would earn you more time on the Spurs. It obviously didn't happen. I agree with John B that a bunch of that was doing right by Rudy and DDR. A line up of DJM, White, KJ, Poeltl, and Samanic would be an awesome defensive line up with KJ being the weak link. While it didn't produce the defensive events you refer to it was excellent defense nonetheless.

I think this is the most honest take.

People complain why Forbes or Lyles started, yet don’t see the opposite and wonder why some players don’t play. Pop has his favorites and also those in the dog house. It’s weird, but it’s also pretty simple.

[Mr. Body]

I think this is the most honest take.

People complain why Forbes or Lyles started, yet don’t see the opposite and wonder why some players don’t play. Pop has his favorites and also those in the dog house. It’s weird, but it’s also pretty simple.

To be fair, Trey Lyles was given the opportunity to start/play, epically shat the bed, and was never seen again, essentially no longer part of the team.

[The Truth #6]

To be fair, Trey Lyles was given the opportunity to start/play, epically shat the bed, and was never seen again, essentially no longer part of the team.

Very good point. Yet, and then we have Forbes, who was problematic in his own way, was justifiably not resigned, and yet here we are. Things don’t always make sense is my point, I suppose.

[jjspur]

They cut jaren Jackson and ate $3M and that was 20 years ago.

People are getting cut or traded just to make a 15 man roster.

Hutchinson is 4 million, Aminu would be 10

Hell they cut DeMarre Carroll and ate ... what? 10 million? I don't remember but it was a lot.

I think they are still paying Demarre Carrol this year, but you're right someone will be cut and their salary will be eaten. I don't believe the spurs have another trade left in them to get rid of some salary unless they take some back. Some difficult salary decisions are definitely coming up.

[offset formation]

Like with Lonnie, I'm not getting to attached to the idea of him being on the 15 man roster on opening night. Filler in a trade or just cut.

Not saying I agree with it, I'd like to see him get some legit chances. But I'm not counting on it.

much more likely to be ibcluded in a trade than just cut

[offset formation]

They cut jaren Jackson and ate $3M and that was 20 years ago.

People are getting cut or traded just to make a 15 man roster.

Hutchinson is 4 million, Aminu would be 10

Hell they cut DeMarre Carroll and ate ... what? 10 million? I don't remember but it was a lot.

think it was 7.5 stretched over 3 yrs.

[objective]

think it was 7.5 stretched over 3 yrs.

Right, but he was cut like halfway through the first season. Add that half season they ate in year 1 and it might be about 10

[BackHome]

Kirilenko had multiple (3) 5X5 games. The only other player with more than 1 is Hakeem, with 6. Luka just would never be the defender needed to generate 5 steals and 5 blocks in one game. His development has been a bit slow, but if I have one REAL disappointment with him, it’s the fact that he’s an outrageous athlete, but doesn’t create defensive events. He should be a shot blocker at 6’10” with a 38” vert, but he isn’t.

I see your point but he really just has average arm length which always impacts blocks. Also to get blocks you have to not play it safe on defense I think he was just focusing on playing solid stay in front of your man defense for the most part.

[Rocalcio]

This group is delusional. Luka isn’t Metu. That was an entirely different kind of project. They’re not adding him as filler(unless it’s franchise altering) or cutting him. He could have an identical season with minimal progress and he’ll be back for a third year.

They’ve put more time and exercised more patience with lessor prospects.

He’s most definitely viewed as a long term investment. This guy would have to shit the bed in biblical proportions or have some kind of public meltdown or run in with the law for him to be released.

This type of conversation would be much more relevant if he shows no progress this upcoming season.

Agreed

[RobinsontoDuncan]

Yeah, I get that fans want instant results, but this board and spurs fans on Twitter seem to have a unique dislike of Luka and it never made sense to me.

When he was drafted everyone said that Luka was going to be a 2 to 3 year project. People have seemingly forgotten that, when drafted, Luka looked just slightly bigger than Poku. He was a raw prospect. Nevertheless, he showed impressive skills in his first summer league, put up similar numbers to Lonnie Walker and Dejounte Murray in his first (pandemic shortened) year in Austin as a number 2 option behind KJ (who we all knew was further along in his development at the time they were drafted). Then he showed up to training camp last year much more confident, got good reviews from his teammates, and was the best player on our G League team, showing significant development on his offensive and defensive game.

He then got called up to the big club where he had some strong games during a COVID and injury crisis before getting sparse minutes the rest of the season. This is a pretty typical Spurs progression, and pretty much what everyone said was going to happen when he was drafted. Why are people saying there’s something wrong with Luka?

[rjv]

Yeah, I get that fans want instant results, but this board and spurs fans on Twitter seem to have a unique dislike of Luka and it never made sense to me.

When he was drafted everyone said that Luka was going to be a 2 to 3 year project. People have seemingly forgotten that, when drafted, Luka looked just slightly bigger than Poku. He was a raw prospect. Nevertheless, he showed impressive skills in his first summer league, put up similar numbers to Lonnie Walker and Dejounte Murray in his first (pandemic shortened) year in Austin as a number 2 option behind KJ (who we all knew was further along in his development at the time they were drafted). Then he showed up to training camp last year much more confident, got good reviews from his teammates, and was the best player on our G League team, showing significant development on his offensive and defensive game.

He then got called up to the big club where he had some strong games during a COVID and injury crisis before getting sparse minutes the rest of the season. This is a pretty typical Spurs progression, and pretty much what everyone said was going to happen when he was drafted. Why are people saying there’s something wrong with Luka?

:bobo

[Trill Clinton]

Time to put up or shut up. No more excuses for this guy at this point. Every young player has gotten better and taken advantage of their opportunities except Luka.

[dbestpro]

Time to put up or shut up. No more excuses for this guy at this point. Every young player has gotten better and taken advantage of their opportunities except Luka.

What opportunities? He was balling when allowed to play and Pop sent him to then bench.

[BackHome]

Time to put up or shut up. No more excuses for this guy at this point. Every young player has gotten better and taken advantage of their opportunities except Luka.

Cough - Walker still can’t figure out defensive rotations or finish at the rim - Keeping It Real

[Trill Clinton]

What opportunities? He was balling when allowed to play and Pop sent him to then bench.

Looking lost and robotic is balling now? Whenever Pop put him in the game he looked lost and brought no energy to the court.

[Trill Clinton]

Cough - Walker still can’t figure out defensive rotations or finish at the rim - Keeping It Real

Walker's finishing is a huge pet peeve of mine but at least he is active on the court and has shown the ability to score at the NBA level. Luka hasn't shown us anything outside of the G League in 2 years.

[BackHome]

Dude he hasn’t hardly played that is not his fault. Lol

[dbestpro]

SO you like to evaluate players based off 5 minutes end of game trash time. When Pop finally game him meaningful minutes he was rocking it. Now, you may not like Luca as a person for whatever reasons, but you have very narrow vision when it comes time to analyze what he can do on the court with meaningful minutes.

[Floyd Pacquiao]

He has potential. I remember him locking up Julius randle once

[Rocalcio]

Looking lost and robotic is balling now? Whenever Pop put him in the game he looked lost and brought no energy to the court.

He had several great games.

[spurraider21]

Yeah, I get that fans want instant results, but this board and spurs fans on Twitter seem to have a unique dislike of Luka and it never made sense to me.

When he was drafted everyone said that Luka was going to be a 2 to 3 year project. People have seemingly forgotten that, when drafted, Luka looked just slightly bigger than Poku. He was a raw prospect. Nevertheless, he showed impressive skills in his first summer league, put up similar numbers to Lonnie Walker and Dejounte Murray in his first (pandemic shortened) year in Austin as a number 2 option behind KJ (who we all knew was further along in his development at the time they were drafted). Then he showed up to training camp last year much more confident, got good reviews from his teammates, and was the best player on our G League team, showing significant development on his offensive and defensive game.

He then got called up to the big club where he had some strong games during a COVID and injury crisis before getting sparse minutes the rest of the season. This is a pretty typical Spurs progression, and pretty much what everyone said was going to happen when he was drafted. Why are people saying there’s something wrong with Luka?
is it really expecting instant results to have hoped for the guy to at least become a rotation player during his second season?

[Leetonidas]

He had several great games.

He had a few solid games. Not sure I'd label anything we've seen from Luka as "great" yet. Rooting for the kid though. Hope he gets so real burn this year

[KobesAchilles]

He had a few solid games. Not sure I'd label anything we've seen from Luka as "great" yet. Rooting for the kid though. Hope he gets so real burn this year
They’re probably talking about Doncic. Atleast I hope so bc if we our Luka is the standard for greatness then we are fucked

[Rocalcio]

They’re probably talking about Doncic. Atleast I hope so bc if we our Luka is the standard for greatness then we are fucked

Call me idiot…
Against Randle he was great, period.

[The Truth #6]

Let him get Walker’s minutes of last year, then we’ll know what we have. He’s looked lost in trash minutes and fairly good in real minutes. This is more about Pop and his expectations than anything about Luka’s capabilities.

[KobesAchilles]

Call me idiot…
Against Randle he was great, period.
He had a good game. Probably the best of his career. But if I’m basing him off of that one game then there’s zero reason he shouldn’t play like that every night. But I don’t base him off that one game and neither do you. Bc if you really did you would say he underachieved. He played like shit a lot.

The dude is a bust, a waste of a draft pick, it happens. No big deal but let’s not act like he isn’t a scrub. Doncic plays great. He does it consistently and leads his team to the playoffs practically by himself. Sammich watches our games instead of playing them. And I don’t blame Pop for this one.

[buttsR4rebounding]

He had a good game. Probably the best of his career. But if I’m basing him off of that one game then there’s zero reason he shouldn’t play like that every night. But I don’t base him off that one game and neither do you. Bc if you really did you would say he underachieved. He played like shit a lot.

The dude is a bust, a waste of a draft pick, it happens. No big deal but let’s not act like he isn’t a scrub. Doncic plays great. He does it consistently and leads his team to the playoffs practically by himself. Sammich watches our games instead of playing them. And I don’t blame Pop for this one.

Whenever he got any meaningful minutes he had a positive impact. Even playing primarily garbage time he had one of the best defensive ratings on the team. To not put a shitload of the blame on Pop is shortsighted. Luka’s biggest issue IMO has been that his attitude is always compared to KJ because they were drafted together. Obviously KJ’s motor is elite and everyone else on the team will fail that test.

[offset formation]

Looking lost and robotic is balling now? Whenever Pop put him in the game he looked lost and brought no energy to the court.

he was at times the best defender on the court last season in the few minutes he got. which should tell you something

[GAustex]

Thad threw Luka around like a rag doll when Spurs ran with the bulls.
Agree it would be helpful if Luka became positively influential. It is time for him and all the young ones to step it up now that the overrated ball hogs are gone.
Got a feeling him and poop don’t be getting along.

[DPG21920]

is it really expecting instant results to have hoped for the guy to at least become a rotation player during his second season?

Not sure if serious…

[spurraider21]

Not sure if serious…
Keeping it 20x5

no cap

[DPG21920]

Keeping it 20x5

no cap

Damn it :lol now I’m really not sure if serious

[spurraider21]

Damn it :lol now I’m really not sure if serious
Im totally cereal.

im not saying he has to start or be a star. But be a rotation player in year 2 ffs

[DPG21920]

Ok now I got it

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Luka will likely be a pleasant surprise this season. If we surprise everyone and get into playoffs, it will be because of a healthy White, dramatically improved Luka, and of course moderately improved Murray, vassell and Keldon.

[KobesAchilles]

Whenever he got any meaningful minutes he had a positive impact. Even playing primarily garbage time he had one of the best defensive ratings on the team. To not put a shitload of the blame on Pop is shortsighted. Luka’s biggest issue IMO has been that his attitude is always compared to KJ because they were drafted together. Obviously KJ’s motor is elite and everyone else on the team will fail that test.
Yeah it’s all Pops fault that Luka sucks. I mean he played Derrick year 2, he played DJ, he played Lonnie, he played KJ, but it’s all Pops fault that Luka couldn’t get any playing time last year…

You can’t take a player who barely played and give me advanced stats on them. It doesn’t work that way. Dude was excited to be in the game, but he starts not getting the ball and let’s see how his effort goes. The more he plays the worse that rating will go. The Spurs signed like 4 bigs in the off-season. They do NOT like what they have. Maybe all the player fans here on Spurstalk like Poeltl or Luka but Pop, RC, and Wrong, they don’t.

[Ocotillo]

Yeah it’s all Pops fault that Luka sucks. I mean he played Derrick year 2, he played DJ, he played Lonnie, he played KJ, but it’s all Pops fault that Luka couldn’t get any playing time last year…

You can’t take a player who barely played and give me advanced stats on them. It doesn’t work that way. Dude was excited to be in the game, but he starts not getting the ball and let’s see how his effort goes. The more he plays the worse that rating will go. The Spurs signed like 4 bigs in the off-season. They do NOT like what they have. Maybe all the player fans here on Spurstalk like Poeltl or Luka but Pop, RC, and Wrong, they don’t.

Dieng, Gay, and Lyles all left (also Aldridge although Dieng took his spot) so they had to get some depth. Lukey Sandwich was pretty much the only 4 still on the roster.

[SpursDynasty85]

Dieng, Gay, and Lyles all left (also Aldridge although Dieng took his spot) so they had to get some depth. Lukey Sandwich was pretty much the only 4 still on the roster.
Like it or not, Keldon/McDermott are our starting 3&4 and Vassell will likely be our 3. We do have Amino and Young who can all play 4 too. We actually have too much depth considering all the guys that need playing time. 2 more years of rebuild at the very least.

[KobesAchilles]

Dieng, Gay, and Lyles all left (also Aldridge although Dieng took his spot) so they had to get some depth. Lukey Sandwich was pretty much the only 4 still on the roster.
Some depth sure but they all but placed his butt on the bench with the amount we got tbh. I expect McD to be our 4 in a lot of spots tbh. Or Keldon. And then we have Young to back them up. And Vassell. No real room for Luka at all in the rotation.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Some depth sure but they all but placed his butt on the bench with the amount we got tbh. I expect McD to be our 4 in a lot of spots tbh. Or Keldon. And then we have Young to back them up. And Vassell. No real room for Luka at all in the rotation.

We’ll see. Keldon and McD are both crap on defense. If Pop can’t figure out how to play a guy who had done better than Vassel in his limited minutes I pray Pop retires as soon as he gets win 19 for the sake of the club. Personally I am renewing my season tickets the day Pop announces his long overdue retirement.

[jjspur]

Some spurs fans are hard on Luka because he was drafted 19th and just hasn't shown what other spurs or other NBA players drafted further into the draft have done. After usually drafting in the mid to late 20's we simply expect players drafted that high to produce fairly quickly at least justifying their draft position. Yes we've been spoiled with the success of olympic Keldon, White, and Murray so we kind of expect someone drafted higher than them to do well also. When they don't, naturally we are disappointed or even a bit angry. Signing or trading for players that play his position doesn't help his cause either.

So this is probably a make or break year for him. If given the chance by Pop, he really really needs to produce and not just 5 points and a few rebounds (a decent G-leaguer can do that for a lot less). if he isn't given the chance, that possibly signals that the spurs have more faith in other players and have seen that enough potential just isn't there. It happens to many players on every team for whatever reasons. Without showing enough and I emphasize enough real progress, it may just be the spurs turn to move on from a player that initially showed lots of potential but didn't quite work out.

[Ice009]

Cough - Walker still can’t figure out defensive rotations or finish at the rim - Keeping It Real

I was a huge backer of Lonnie's the past three seasons, but after what he showed me (or didn't show) during the season on defense, I'm really down on him now. I remember seeing pictures of him working out and working on defense with Jrue Holiday last off-season, but ff he can't learn anything from Jrue on the defensive side of the ball, I don't have much hope for him anymore. I hope he can put it together this season.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

is it really expecting instant results to have hoped for the guy to at least become a rotation player during his second season?

Yeah. Do you recall what happened with Lonnie? Lonnie got some minutes and was featured in a few select games his second season, but he did not become a regular part of the rotation until his third season. Coincidentally, Lonnie was drafted 18th overall and Luka was drafted 19th. So really what that tells me is that, for the most part, the Spurs drafted both players due to their traits and with the plan of taking the long game with their development.

It's not like it isnt working either. I'm pretty confident both guys will be in the league for 10 years.

[spurraider21]

Yeah. Do you recall what happened with Lonnie? Lonnie got some minutes and was featured in a few select games his second season, but he did not become a regular part of the rotation until his third season. Coincidentally, Lonnie was drafted 18th overall and Luka was drafted 19th. So really what that tells me is that, for the most part, the Spurs drafted both players due to their traits and with the plan of taking the long game with their development.

It's not like it isnt working either. I'm pretty confident both guys will be in the league for 10 years.
And how has that worked out for Lonnie after a third year?

the brass using top 20 picks on guys then don’t even expect to produce for 2+ years is absurd

[rankingtear]

Non garbage minutes he is our worst offensive player. 8 percentile in points per attempts ; turnover percentage ; assist rate compared to usage rate. He does not hit shots , does not move the ball and turns it over a ton. His value is tied on POA defense against initiating forwards, if the initiation comes from someone he can't guard then there is no point in going 4 v 5 on offense. Also foul rate is second worst only ahead of Q.

The same numbers also shows up in the G-League where he ranked last and second to last in offensive rating on his own team in the past 2 seasons.

He is a mess on offense and situational on defense.

[SAGirl]

Some depth sure but they all but placed his butt on the bench with the amount we got tbh. I expect McD to be our 4 in a lot of spots tbh. Or Keldon. And then we have Young to back them up. And Vassell. No real room for Luka at all in the rotation.
What I will say is this, if he doesn't get a regular rotation spot by this point it's all on him. He has competition for minutes but no one who is a star. Everyone is competing for minutes. The Spurs next season aren't really clear on who they are. He can be good enough to push for minutes, same as everyone else that has gotten them eventually. I think he'll get opportunities but it's all on him, and probably how good he can be offensively, because he has struggled there with an inconsistent shot.

If Samanic is going to be a big negative offensively then he'll find playing time outside of garbage time hard to come by. And he shouldn't take even garbage time for granted. That's how everyone on the Spurs eventually proved themselves as an NBA player. Scattered minutes and garbage time. He has to take every opportunity given, not just for the Spurs but for his career.

[SAGirl]

Non garbage minutes he is our worst offensive player. 8 percentile in points per attempts ; turnover percentage ; assist rate compared to usage rate. He does not hit shots , does not move the ball and turns it over a ton. His value is tied on POA defense against initiating forwards, if the initiation comes from someone he can't guard then there is no point in going 4 v 5 on offense. Also foul rate is second worst only ahead of Q.

The same numbers also shows up in the G-League where he ranked last and second to last in offensive rating on his own team in the past 2 seasons.

He is a mess on offense and situational on defense.
This is what no one wants to discuss. It's going to be difficult for him in a Spurs team that will struggle offensively at times, even with a few players making improvements.

[Rocalcio]

Yeah it’s all Pops fault that Luka sucks. I mean he played Derrick year 2, he played DJ, he played Lonnie, he played KJ, but it’s all Pops fault that Luka couldn’t get any playing time last year…

You can’t take a player who barely played and give me advanced stats on them. It doesn’t work that way. Dude was excited to be in the game, but he starts not getting the ball and let’s see how his effort goes. The more he plays the worse that rating will go. The Spurs signed like 4 bigs in the off-season. They do NOT like what they have. Maybe all the player fans here on Spurstalk like Poeltl or Luka but Pop, RC, and Wrong, they don’t.

Young probably won’t be kept, Mc Dermott is a 3. Luka will get some playing time.

[jjspur]

Young probably won’t be kept, Mc Dermott is a 3. Luka will get some playing time.
Pop will go with his preferred tried and true (whats left of it) starting lineup. When that doesn't cut it, he will make tweaks here and there. When that doesn't work or lots of players are injured he starts experimenting. That's how Luka got his minutes last year, not exactly earning and then keeping them. We may not have as many injuries as last year plus we have some new players who may be hungry for minutes and will to do what it takes to get them and keep them. With the exception of Trey Jones and the rookies, most of the spurs players have lots more experience than Luka (and Jones looked real good in summer league) Luka has a big hill to climb if he just wants to play and a big mountain to climb if he wants to start. After 2 very limited seasons they aren't just going to hand him a starting position just because, he'll have to earn it even on a projected 30 win spurs team.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

And how has that worked out for Lonnie after a third year?

the brass using top 20 picks on guys then don’t even expect to produce for 2+ years is absurd

I disagree with you on both counts. 1) Lonnie broke into the lineup last year and had an ok season, so I’d say it’s working out OK so far. Next year will be really telling. 2) The number of guys that end up sticking around the league and being real contributors that are selected 18th or 19th overall is really, really small.

The Spurs have one thing they still do really well and that’s develop players. From their perspective, drafting highly athletic, toolsy players that have flaws but could be big home runs makes a ton of sense. They just need to hit on one of those guys to validate the strategy, and then turn the other one into a serviceable rotation player that can bring something meaningful to a competitive (hopefully championship) level team.

The alternative at that range is selecting a guy that is a high floor roll player.

[spurraider21]

lonnie breaking into the rotation and playing awfully in year 3 is a resounding success

how far we have fallen

[Dejounte]

Looks like Chip is with Luka during his workouts. Seems the Spurs haven’t completely given up on him yet.

[JuneJive]

Why would they give up on him?

Such silly thinking.

[Dejounte]

Why would they give up on him?

Such silly thinking.

Easy answer is the number of veteran forwards who the Spurs attained and could bury him in the depth chart. It’s what most people seem to think on here.

[CGD]

Easy answer is the number of veteran forwards who the Spurs attained and could bury him in the depth chart. It’s what most people seem to think on here.

Thad and Amino are not in the Spurs’ future plans. Just a matter of time before they go. That leaves McBob, who has a different skill set.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Thad and Amino are not in the Spurs’ future plans. Just a matter of time before they go. That leaves McBob, who has a different skill set.

who is McBob? Josh McRoberts still in the NBA?

do you mean McDermott?

[SAGirl]

1445069376198258688

[KingKev]

1445069376198258688

All of these positive hype man interviews are getting tiresome. Luka, Walker and half of this roster might not be in the NBA in a few years.

[SAGirl]

All of these positive hype man interviews are getting tiresome. Luka, Walker and half of this roster might not be in the NBA in a few years.
I feel like for Luka specially there have been innumerable excuses, but the guy is still young and could put it together. Part of the problem has been the lack of opportunity. Someone can’t show something if he doesn’t play, but Pops reluctance to play him is already meaningful to me because the team has been starved for quality bigs in a significant way.

He’s going into his 3rd season, Collins is injured, Jock is a rookie, Drew is a limited energy player, KBD has been a marginal role player. For all the bigs the team has signed, he could literally be the best among them if he really shows game. No excuses. No one is so entrenched that Luka couldn’t push him for minutes if he was good enough for it. At some point the excuses have to run out. I hope he’s ready.

[KingKev]

I feel like for Luka specially there have been innumerable excuses, but the guy is still young and could put it together. Part of the problem has been the lack of opportunity. Someone can’t show something if he doesn’t play, but Pops reluctance to play him is already meaningful to me because the team has been starved for quality bigs in a significant way.

He’s going into his 3rd season, Collins is injured, Jock is a rookie, Drew is a limited energy player, KBD has been a marginal role player. For all the bigs the team has signed, he could literally be the best among them if he really shows game. No excuses. No one is so entrenched that Luka couldn’t push him for minutes if he was good enough for it. At some point the excuses have to run out. I hope he’s ready.

All great points. He has clearly been building his body up versus just growing into it so I hope Pop gives him a longer leash this year. I’m just starting to get tired of the positivity like we are onto something here. I feel like half these guys are just patronizing PATFO and themselves. There is no accountability anymore.

[BacktoBasics]

Anything north of 16 minutes a game is a win. There really shouldn’t be any frustration up to this point. This has always been the Spurs path when it comes to developing players. They get minutes when the progress justifies it. Based on past players I expect Luka to crack the bottom of the rotation and show some sparks of interest. If he can maintain some measure of consistency this year I expect to see him as a full rotation player next season.

I don’t think any of the Spurs staff is expecting a breakout season, they’re looking for progress and consistency as he builds the basis for the type of player they want him to be.

They drafted him with the intention of being patient as he develops. There was absolutely zero reasons to rush him.

I’m hoping for more but if this guy ends having a Mahinmi type career that would be considered successful by most any reasonable expectation.

[tim_duncan_fan]

C'mon Tall Luka!

[KingKev]

Anything north of 16 minutes a game is a win. There really shouldn’t be any frustration up to this point. This has always been the Spurs path when it comes to developing players. They get minutes when the progress justifies it. Based on past players I expect Luka to crack the bottom of the rotation and show some sparks of interest. If he can maintain some measure of consistency this year I expect to see him as a full rotation player next season.

I don’t think any of the Spurs staff is expecting a breakout season, they’re looking for progress and consistency as he builds the basis for the type of player they want him to be.

They drafted him with the intention of being patient as he develops. There was absolutely zero reasons to rush him.

I’m hoping for more but if this guy ends having a Mahinmi type career that would be considered successful by most any reasonable expectation.

He has a very needed skill set on a lottery bound team and was taken in the first round, late teens when he probably could have been available in the second round so I disagree. My first day working on a trading floor as a trader for an investment bank they told me sink or swim. I feel like this organization needs to be abit more cut throat with guys who have great potential during an era of a rebuild that no one in PATFO cares to acknowledge.

[BacktoBasics]

He has a very needed skill set on a lottery bound team and was taken in the first round, late teens when he probably could have been available in the second round so I disagree. My first day working on a trading floor as a trader for an investment bank they told me sink or swim. I feel like this organization needs to be abit more cut throat with guys who have great potential during an era of a rebuild that no one in PATFO cares to acknowledge.

They told you sink or swim because you’re a dime a dozen. If you couldn’t do it, any number of people could have jumped in and handled the job. Clearly they had no interest in developing you. Whereas Luka has some measure of being able to do things that are not only atypical but applicable to today’s game. That most certainly warrants the reach and subsequent patience.

The emphasis in SA has always been time and development. I’m sure they weighed their options risk/reward vs whatever else was available and made their choice.

No such thought process was needed with your employment. Shit the bed the next in line probably won’t.

[KingKev]

They told you sink or swim because you’re a dime a dozen. If you couldn’t do it, any number of people could have jumped in and handled the job. Clearly they had no interest in developing you. Whereas Luka has some measure of being able to do things that are not only atypical but applicable to today’s game. That most certainly warrants the reach and subsequent patience.

The emphasis in SA has always been time and development. I’m sure they weighed their options risk/reward vs whatever else was available and made their choice.

No such thought process was needed with your employment. Shit the bed the next in line probably won’t.

Lol is that what you tell your clients mr Life Coach? Ever sat in front of 6 screens for 12 hours a day unable to go to the bathroom trading interest derivatives trying to steal a quarter basis point on billion dollar trades? Do you even know what a basis point is? Not everyone can do that, just like not everyone can make the NBA. Every community college graduate can be an influencer or motivational coach which is what you are; a glorified influencer. My point is we have given him the time to develop so time to see what he has.

[BacktoBasics]

Lol is that what you tell your clients mr Life Coach? Ever sat in front of 6 screens for 12 hours a day unable to go to the bathroom trading interest derivatives trying to steal a quarter basis point on billion dollar trades? Do you even know what a basis point is? Not everyone can do that, just like not everyone can make the NBA. Every community college graduate can be an influencer or motivational coach which is what you are; a glorified influencer. My point is we have given him the time to develop so time to see what he has.

Congrats, I guess. You obviously have an ego otherwise you wouldn’t have puffed out your chest and tried to flex.

I’ve always thought you were a bit of a self aggrandizing prick. So if staring at screens all day is a good use of your time then good for you. I value you my time, I make a living predominantly on passive income. For the record I’m not a life coach, it’s a slogan and mostly sarcasm but you knew that.

I imagine you require the last word. So go right ahead so we can get back to basketball and not your shitty 9-5 dick measuring contest.

[KingKev]

Congrats, I guess. You obviously have an ego otherwise you wouldn’t have puffed out your chest and tried to flex.

I’ve always thought you were a bit of a self aggrandizing prick. So if staring at screens all day is a good use of your time then good for you. I value you my time, I make a living predominantly on passive income. For the record I’m not a life coach, it’s a slogan and mostly sarcasm but you knew that.

I imagine you require the last word. So go right ahead so we can get back to basketball and not your shitty 9-5 dick measuring contest.

At the end of the day we both love our Spurs. There are things about this organization that are frustrating to me lately. We are not the dynasty we once were which is fine as all good things come to an end. I’d just prefer to see some of these guys who may have the talent to give this franchise some real momentum again get their time and have a longer leash. Either way we are lottery bound. Getting tired of trusting the process when Tim, Tony and Manu carried Pop not the other way around.

[tonight...you]

They told you sink or swim because you’re a dime a dozen. If you couldn’t do it, any number of people could have jumped in and handled the job. Clearly they had no interest in developing you. Whereas Luka has some measure of being able to do things that are not only atypical but applicable to today’s game. That most certainly warrants the reach and subsequent patience.

The emphasis in SA has always been time and development. I’m sure they weighed their options risk/reward vs whatever else was available and made their choice.

No such thought process was needed with your employment. Shit the bed the next in line probably won’t.
Brutal.

[Sugus]

Lol is that what you tell your clients mr Life Coach? Ever sat in front of 6 screens for 12 hours a day unable to go to the bathroom trading interest derivatives trying to steal a quarter basis point on billion dollar trades?

This is absolutely not the flex or good thing you think it is, my guy :lmao

It's ok though, just reality, not everyone can win the genetic lottery and be born into an NBA body. Hope Luka can prove he belongs, his play today wasn't really something to write home about...

[SAGirl]

Selling all my stock here (didn't have much to begin with, but I was ready to buy.)

[cd98]

We need to trade him so he can become our next Bertans.

[offset formation]

Selling all my stock here (didn't have much to begin with, but I was ready to buy.)

Noted, jeezus. You've been shitting on him on every thread as much as you can.

[playbonner15]

We need to trade him so he can become our next Bertans.

This. Trade him to the East

[raybies]

Noted, jeezus. You've been shitting on him on every thread as much as you can.

his fore head was never big enough... poor guy never had a chance. :)

[buttsR4rebounding]

If Luka was held to the same standard as IV he would be playing 25 minutes a game.

[The Truth #6]

I have to assume his maturity level and personality are holding back his minutes because we are a young team and not very good. It’s preseason and things can change but not a good sign for his chances here for a new beginning with his level in the depth chart. Yikes. Obviously Luka has a role in this but his personality was a known factor when he was drafted, and so if that indeed is the issue, then I would think the Luka haters need to question the decision to draft him in the first place. There were better options. A weird situation from the beginning that has yet to make sense.

[rjv]

Noted, jeezus. You've been shitting on him on every thread as much as you can.

yeah, i was a bit shocked to see her last post because it was so inconsistent with her previous takes on luka.

[SAGirl]

It’s a new season so I was excited to see him get an opportunity finally and see what a few fans are hyped about, but it just seems he’s barely on the edges of the roster at this point.