Keldon to have dominant primary role in the future for San Antonio Spurs?

[John B]

Keldon was the only one with a sense of urgency last night, except maybe DJ. But Keldon needs to start attacking early and not to wait for a blow out. If he attack early, it would hopefully set the pace for the whole team to be aggressive.

[Dejounte]

Keldon says, "KING ME"

[JuneJive]

Dominant, to say the least.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/AirlessJordan/status/1373092053744300039?s=19

[r0drig0lac]

good game

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/poundingtherock/status/1373090080819138567?s=19

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1373003544568213510?s=19

https://twitter.com/N_Magaro/status/1372930239085568001?s=19

https://twitter.com/ireginaldthomas/status/1373103403375677445?s=19

[B1gduff]

Big Body plays like the greek Freaky, what at about 6'6. Just Imagine once he develops more of his Offensive game? no one, unless its a charge or a mini-wall is stopping Kj from attacking and finsihing at the rim, add in a smooth mid-ranger, with an Improved 3pt shot, he's going to be speical!

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/N_Magaro/status/1373110793886126084?s=19

Great company

[GAustex]

His second jump is unique

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/il_K7eUOFQU

[KingKev]

Big Body plays like the greek Freaky, what at about 6'6. Just Imagine once he develops more of his Offensive game? no one, unless its a charge or a mini-wall is stopping Kj from attacking and finsihing at the rim, add in a smooth mid-ranger, with an Improved 3pt shot, he's going to be speical!

Yeah that is what strikes me the most is his stat line was because of his HUSTLE. Given his work ethic there is no reason not to believe he won’t add to his offensive repertoire over the coming years. His 3ball, when falling has great arch, if he can become a near 40% 3pt shooter on decent volume he will be a problem.

[DAF86]

Keldon was mosesmaloning it out there vs the Cavs.

[koriwhat]

Keldon was mosesmaloning it out there vs the Cavs.

:tu

[ceperez]

https://twitter.com/poundingtherock/status/1373090080819138567?s=19

Can anyone explain to me how he does it?

[ceperez]

His second jump is unique

He's got a second jump like Dennis Rodman?

[barakz21]

Kinda late to the party, but why is KJ called “big body”?

[3&D_TBH]

His second jump is unique

And quick as fuck. Zion is another who gets back up with the quickness.

[KingKev]

Kinda late to the party, but why is KJ called “big body”?

Not sure if you are being facetious but it is because he 21 and built like a Mack Truck. Grown man build.

[Dejounte]

Kinda late to the party, but why is KJ called “big body”?


Not sure if you are being facetious but it is because he 21 and built like a Mack Truck. Grown man build.

Nope, he made the name up himself when he had an and 1 during summer league and was on the floor and screamed, "BIG BODY!!". It caught on with fans and he started signing signatures with it as well.

[Dejounte]

Kinda late to the party, but why is KJ called “big body”?


Not sure if you are being facetious but it is because he 21 and built like a Mack Truck. Grown man build.

Here's the clip (the last play)

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1148355942418771968?s=19

[barakz21]

Not sure if you are being facetious but it is because he 21 and built like a Mack Truck. Grown man build.

Not really. Sure, I see how the guy is built but was just curious if there’s a
story behind that.

[barakz21]

Here's the clip (the last play)

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1148355942418771968?s=19

Gotcha. That clears it up, I’ve seriously been curious for a while now. Thanks!

[KingKev]

Here's the clip (the last play)

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1148355942418771968?s=19


Haha wow I need to sit down. Imma call you big body from now on. My mistake. Apologies.

[spursparker9]

I remember some ex-player called Dancing Blair had similar stats of 20+ rebs and 20+ points as well

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1373480940501090306?s=19

[Seventyniner]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1373480940501090306?s=19

Uh, what else is he going to say? "Yeah we're going to aim for 7-2"?

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1374136500800065538?s=19

[bluebellmaniac]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1374136500800065538?s=19

Nobody's really mentioned it before, but I think he can be something special. Heard it here first.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/TheTyJager/status/1397681583465828357?s=19

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/TheTyJager/status/1397684031597252616?s=19

[PhantomDashCam]

Dejounte - Part interview now live

Edit: Appears this is only part 1...

https://twitter.com/ESPN_SA/status/1397699865426239490?s=20

[tim_duncan_fan]

https://twitter.com/TheTyJager/status/1397684031597252616?s=19

Then he should have worked harder on the three over the summer and not passed up so many shots in games.

But it's good he feels this way.

[Obi Juan Kenobi]

Then he should have worked harder on the three over the summer and not passed up so many shots in games.

But it's good he feels this way.

Hopefully he'll work on that this summer. The guy is driven and committed that's for sure...

[timtonymanu]

https://twitter.com/TheTyJager/status/1397681583465828357?s=19

WORK on your 3s. Again these guys are obsessed with the midrange game when the 3 point shot is crucial in today’s game. We don’t need another guard congesting the lane because he sucks at shooting 3s.

[tim_duncan_fan]

WORK on your 3s. Again these guys are obsessed with the midrange game when the 3 point shot is crucial in today’s game. We don’t need another guard congesting the lane because he sucks at shooting 3s.

They just don't get it smh

[PhantomDashCam]

WORK on your 3s. Again these guys are obsessed with the midrange game when the 3 point shot is crucial in today’s game. We don’t need another guard congesting the lane because he sucks at shooting 3s.


They just don't get it smh

I think it’s about making him a more complete Offensive player.

Keldon’s greatest asset atm is his bullish, fearless drives through the interior of a Defence. If he’s able to judiciously choose when to shoot the mid range J/floater, (augmenting his game instead of plowing into people as he did at times this season) it can only mean good things for the Spurs going forward.

It also means that he’s probably moving to a SF role and that DDR is likely gone. :tu

[exstatic]

WORK on your 3s. Again these guys are obsessed with the midrange game when the 3 point shot is crucial in today’s game. We don’t need another guard congesting the lane because he sucks at shooting 3s.


They just don't get it smh

You have to have an option when they run you off the 3 point line, which they will if he shoots them better.

[PrimeMinister]

Then he should have worked harder on the three over the summer and not passed up so many shots in games.

But it's good he feels this way.

it was his first offseason in the nba. He is 21 years old.

do we just expect second year players to have one offseason with chip and come back shooting 40%?

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

He definitely hit the sophomore slump...and Covid and the Spurs’ crazy schedule didn’t help. Teams also learned to defend him. He’s going to have to hone his game a bit, but I still really like what he brings.

[tim_duncan_fan]

it was his first offseason in the nba. He is 21 years old.

do we just expect second year players to have one offseason with chip and come back shooting 40%?

You're right. I should remind myself it was only his second year in the league.

[exstatic]

You're right. I should remind myself it was only his second year in the league.

He’s essentially played ONE season’s worth of NBA games. He also added some things to his game this year when they started drawing charges on his drives. He has the little 6-8 foot pop-a-shot, and has a basic Euro step.

[Dejounte]

3's were a lesser concern for Keldon compared to his predictability on offense. He needs to make better reads and stop forcing it on drives. If the opposing big rotates fast enough to block his path to the rim, that's when a mid-range game will be handy.

[dbestpro]

My view as it is with every young player is in today's NBA you must have a killer 3 point shot to take your game to the next level or you will simply be a rotational player. Johnson and Murray both need this skill set and need it with consistency.

[Ocotillo]

Keldon will be fine. He has work ethic and will get better. This season was like a trip to the dentist office, no fun, something to endure but I am fired up about the upcoming season and these young guys putting in some work over the summer.

[PrimeMinister]

3's were a lesser concern for Keldon compared to his predictability on offense. He needs to make better reads and stop forcing it on drives. If the opposing big rotates fast enough to block his path to the rim, that's when a mid-range game will be handy.

Agree. He’ll put the work in to bring the spot up side around, I feel pretty confident.

The X factor in his development is reads from the triple threat and anticipating defenses once he initiates the drive. Knowing when to stop and pop from 15 or developing a floater to go over a center that might be waiting near the restricted area. Continuing to develop some of the dump off passes we started to see later in the year.

His blow by % first half of the year was near the top of league. Might have even been number one for a period of time. Very few players can contain him off the dribble, developing a more advanced array of tools once he has gotten by his defender in space will take him from role player to potential star. He’s got a rare combination of physical tools. First step of an explosive wing, strength in the paint and on the glass of a hulking 4.

[Atl Spur]

I think it’s about making him a more complete Offensive player.

Keldon’s greatest asset atm is his bullish, fearless drives through the interior of a Defence. If he’s able to judiciously choose when to shoot the mid range J/floater, (augmenting his game instead of plowing into people as he did at times this season) it can only mean good things for the Spurs going forward.

It also means that he’s probably moving to a SF role and that DDR is likely gone. :tu

This!

[John B]

As much as I want Keldon to work on his offense, I want him to improve on his defense. I think he can be a lockdown defender with his physicality and motor. I really want the Spurs to get back to being a top defensive team that I know they're very capable of with their athleticism and youth.

[Sugus]

As much as I want Keldon to work on his offense, I want him to improve on his defense. I think he can be a lockdown defender with his physicality and motor. I really want the Spurs to get back to being a top defensive team that I know they're very capable of with their athleticism and youth.

Hmm, I'm not really as high on his defensive potential as I was a year or so ago. He's not laterally quick enough to stay in front of most players... Could he trim down a bit, like a lean-down, and get quicker? Maybe, but he'd sacrifice some of that bullish strength and godly power that makes him such a valuable offensive threat in the first place. And lateral speed is one of those things that ain't easy to develop/work on, at least not like your shooting or offensive moves or whatever. This season (and I'm willing to give him a bit of a pass on exhaustion, both due to the schedule and being forced to play up a position by Pop), he's looked not quick enough to stay in front of SFs, and though adequate at staying in front of PFs, very undersized/unskilled in other areas against them (giving up positioning, offensive rebounds, team defense especially in zones, not making rotations to protect the rim quick enough to aid Jakob, etc).

I guess it'll depend on which path the FO/development coaches want him to go as a player. If they're really seeing him as a full-time PF, he'd do well to keep bulking up, improving his outside shot, and getting taught some big man moves/tasks, since he's really lacking there, as he logically never played the position growing up. I'd much rather they try to mold him into a SF type though, and get him a more fluid in-between game, quicker moves and passes, and also a better outside shot. The way Pop's played him this season was worrisome to me, so I hope they'll go with the latter tbh.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Hmm, I'm not really as high on his defensive potential as I was a year or so ago. He's not laterally quick enough to stay in front of most players... Could he trim down a bit, like a lean-down, and get quicker? Maybe, but he'd sacrifice some of that bullish strength and godly power that makes him such a valuable offensive threat in the first place. And lateral speed is one of those things that ain't easy to develop/work on, at least not like your shooting or offensive moves or whatever. This season (and I'm willing to give him a bit of a pass on exhaustion, both due to the schedule and being forced to play up a position by Pop), he's looked not quick enough to stay in front of SFs, and though adequate at staying in front of PFs, very undersized/unskilled in other areas against them (giving up positioning, offensive rebounds, team defense especially in zones, not making rotations to protect the rim quick enough to aid Jakob, etc).

I guess it'll depend on which path the FO/development coaches want him to go as a player. If they're really seeing him as a full-time PF, he'd do well to keep bulking up, improving his outside shot, and getting taught some big man moves/tasks, since he's really lacking there, as he logically never played the position growing up. I'd much rather they try to mold him into a SF type though, and get him a more fluid in-between game, quicker moves and passes, and also a better outside shot. The way Pop's played him this season was worrisome to me, so I hope they'll go with the latter tbh.

Sugus is so on point here. The team’s ceiling is low with a 6’6” PF. Even 10 pounds lighter he overpowers most 3s, but can he stay in front of them. His length and strength will likely make him at least adequate. I also think by the end of next season it will be evident that Saminic will be the answer at the 4.

[Mr. Body]

Historically Kentucky has a terrible track record with players who improve themselves in the NBA, at least in the Calipari era. They're often very talented -- talented in high school, then barely improve in their one year in college, then have no idea how to get better in the pros. Tyler Herro is a good example. He's completely cratered after some initial success. Coach Cal doesn't teach them a goddamn thing.

I hope Keldon is different. This is probably the first coaching he's ever recieved.

[exstatic]

Historically Kentucky has a terrible track record with players who improve themselves in the NBA, at least in the Calipari era. They're often very talented -- talented in high school, then barely improve in their one year in college, then have no idea how to get better in the pros. Tyler Herro is a good example. He's completely cratered after some initial success. Coach Cal doesn't teach them a goddamn thing.

I hope Keldon is different. This is probably the first coaching he's ever recieved.

Booker scored 10ppg at UK.

[Mr. Body]

Booker scored 10ppg at UK.

Okay? Fucker still doesn't know how to win basketball games. None of them do. Bledsoe, Wall, Cousins, hell, LeBron had to drag Davis kicking and screaming into postseason victories. They're each fundamentally the same befuddled talents they were in college. Not a single one of them has any grit to them.

[Mr. Body]

The only Calipari minion I have any respect for in developing any ability to make other players better and dig deep to win against adversity is Derrick Rose. And he's still not that good.

EDIT: Jamal Murray, although he's started to struggle. But he's been a player who I think completely ignored Calipari and did his own thing. He's like an anti-Kentucky player.

[Kurik]

The only Calipari minion I have any respect for in developing any ability to make other players better and dig deep to win against adversity is Derrick Rose. And he's still not that good.

EDIT: Jamal Murray, although he's started to struggle. But he's been a player who I think completely ignored Calipari and did his own thing. He's like an anti-Kentucky player.

Thoughts on Bam and SGA?

[Mr. Body]

Thoughts on Bam and SGA?

What have they won? Are we seeing guys who can dig in when their natural talent isn't getting things done? That's what great players can do. DRob, Olajuwon, Jordan, Garnett, any of those guys. Games when nothing's working, you gotta grind. You gotta raise your teammates. You gotta find a way. Barely any of the Calipari players have any clue how to do this. They're just fancy dans running around with a basketball. Great at running downhill. Suck when things go south. Clueless.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1404853710715453441

[R. DeMurre]

Bam and SGA are 23 and 22, and both look great. I love D Rob, but c'mon-- he didn't win a championship until he was 33 and had Timmy as a teammate. Before that, his rep with non-spur fans wasn't exactly that of a unflappable grit guy.

[pad300]

https://twitter.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1404853710715453441

Good choice, article says he still practices there in the offseason... Otherwise I'd be suggesting he should buy a second one and keep it for himself.

[slick'81]

Bam and SGA are 23 and 22, and both look great. I love D Rob, but c'mon-- he didn't win a championship until he was 33 and had Timmy as a teammate. Before that, his rep with non-spur fans wasn't exactly that of a unflappable grit guy.

it didnt help when he said his favorite movie was the little mermaid,tbh

[B1gduff]

I still thing that Keldon, if he puts in the work can turn into a Middelton type of player. Middleton is in no WAY is an atheltic player, but he extremly strong and has an high IQ. Similar to Keldon. But Kj is a little bit more atheltic, and has bounce in his game, but he has strength to move players. There is still alot of work to be down, 3pts shooting,mid-ramge,1-1 defense and team defense.

I see a hybrid of Giannis and Middleton in him, he has the spped and strength to attack and go at guys close to the rim, but could develop the mid-point and 3pts of Middelton. No I don't think he'll be as good as Giannis.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

If Keldon puts the work in he's going to be special. Teams learned to defend him last year so he'll need to keep expanding his offensive game to stay effective. Covid didn't help either.

[dbestpro]

Keldon needs to play SF/SG and not PF.

[John B]

Spurs forward Keldon Johnson has been named to the 2021 USA Basketball Select Team Roster. The team will train with the US Men's Olympic team in preparation for the Toyko games. KJ averaged nearly 13 pts and 6 rebs per game in second season in San Antonio.

[look_at_g_shred]

Look at our boy, Spurs Talk.

[John B]

I think Keldon will give them a run for their money :lol

[Sugus]

Spurs forward Keldon Johnson has been named to the 2021 USA Basketball Select Team Roster. The team will train with the US Men's Olympic team in preparation for the Toyko games. KJ averaged nearly 13 pts and 6 rebs per game in second season in San Antonio.

Man, that's great. Not only the scrimmages, but the whole experience, travel (anyone know where will the scrimmages be held? In any case, all the players will still go there together), bonding with the rest of the league's budding stars. It can be a great learning experience for someone with open eyes&ears and a hunger to get better like Keldon.

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.

[The Truth #6]

Man, that's great. Not only the scrimmages, but the whole experience, travel (anyone know where will the scrimmages be held? In any case, all the players will still go there together), bonding with the rest of the league's budding stars. It can be a great learning experience for someone with open eyes&ears and a hunger to get better like Keldon.

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.

I think his lack of reliable outside shooting helped teams scout him after his initial success this year. If he can shoot the 3, then I think his steam rolling drives to the rim will return.

[look_at_g_shred]

Man, that's great. Not only the scrimmages, but the whole experience, travel (anyone know where will the scrimmages be held? In any case, all the players will still go there together), bonding with the rest of the league's budding stars. It can be a great learning experience for someone with open eyes&ears and a hunger to get better like Keldon.

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.
....and FAR from a finished product

[Atl Spur]

He’s solid!

[Dejounte]

Dribbling and an inbetween game. Dont make it complicated, Keldon

[John B]

Man, that's great. Not only the scrimmages, but the whole experience, travel (anyone know where will the scrimmages be held? In any case, all the players will still go there together), bonding with the rest of the league's budding stars. It can be a great learning experience for someone with open eyes&ears and a hunger to get better like Keldon.

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.

My only concern is it takes him away from Spurs trainers to work on his mid-games, maybe some postups drills to backdown smaller SF, if they slide him to SF which I think they should.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

I’m Happy for Keldon.

hopefully he plays well and most importantly doesn’t get hurt. He needs to keep working on his shooting from mid range and 3. Also tighten up his ball handling and bit more focused when he is off the ball on defense.

I like that he is kinda under the radar as far as main stream media wise. True basketball fans and the actual league knows about him and if he keeps improving the casuals will also.

[Sugus]

I think his lack of reliable outside shooting helped teams scout him after his initial success this year. If he can shoot the 3, then I think his steam rolling drives to the rim will return.

Yeah for sure, not to mention the sore lack of reliable outside shooting anywhere near our roster. Guy was having to start at PF 'cause we don't have size to put around him, and was playing alongside one of the most negative-spacing players in the league at best, also out of position. I like last years' roster in terms of personalities, but for sure some changes need to be made for it to be viable and competitive in 2021-22. The fact that the Spurs won as many games as they did and almost got into the POs is amazing on its own.

I think at this point, every young player in the league is being told to first and foremost practice 3s. It is what it is. So I'm definitely hoping/expecting improvement there, but yeah, I'd like to see his game expand in other areas as well.


My only concern is it takes him away from Spurs trainers to work on his mid-games, maybe some postups drills to backdown smaller SF, if they slide him to SF which I think they should.

Yep, these are things I'd love for him to work on; and as Dejounte says, an in-between game too. We're seeing these playoffs (as if it weren't obvious already) that the midrange is far from dead, and when points are hard to come by and outside shots ain't falling, you need other tools. I'm also hoping the Spurs don't slot Keldon as permanent PF, as his size advantage is completely nullified at that position; and post-up moves on wings are really useful for quick, easy baskets.

The thing I'm most wanting to see Keldon develop is a faking game. He's so easy to read when he's going to the basket... He's usually still unstoppable, he's just that good, but learning to stop on a dime, fake layups in traffic, the up-and-under, and a couple post moves with his back to the basket, would make his life SO much easier, not to mention allow him to get fed in the post if he's positioned there, instead of always having to start his scoring outputs with a perimeter drive, à-la-Giannis. Even Giannis gets tired of that, it's hard work.

[Mr. Body]

Man, that's great. Not only the scrimmages, but the whole experience, travel (anyone know where will the scrimmages be held? In any case, all the players will still go there together), bonding with the rest of the league's budding stars. It can be a great learning experience for someone with open eyes&ears and a hunger to get better like Keldon.

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.

ESPN has a stranglehold on the NBA at this point, and their coverage of sports gets worse and worse. They don't give a shit about basketball itself, only pushing their favored narratives. Silver won't do shit about it, and I think the Mouse is pissed the Spurs didn't steer Kawhi over to the Lakers like they wanted them to.

[John B]

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/blob:https://www.spurstalk.com/baff8ec3-3635-4c1d-8802-3ce1a751c54bhttps://www.spurstalk.com/forums/blob:https://www.spurstalk.com/e0078305-0635-464c-b65b-41a2267efd97I didn’t know Spurs waived Cam Reynolds. Happy for the kid for making the US Men’s Select team.

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/blob:https://www.spurstalk.com/717e902f-d3cf-46bc-b6a0-da7c76ffbec6https://twitter.com/camocinco/status/1410671396284403712?s=21

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

On a related tangent, does anyone else feel like Keldon's rise has been.... Muted, somehow? Maybe because of the pandemic and all that's been going on, but you take a step back.... This guy was a 29th pick, and in his second year (his first NBA year even, after spending the entire first season in a different, lower league!), has already been selected to the NBA Rising Stars game (that sadly didn't take place due to COVID), and now selected to the USA Select Team roster. These aren't small feats by any stretch, especially for a non-lottery pick, and yet I'm not seeing nor hearing any kind of buzz towards it. Most of the league probably doesn't even recognize Keldon. I guess the "small market curse" plays a part as well, but idk... He's really, actually, on a path to stardom, at least the beginnings of it. Wild to think about.

He wasn't quite the same after coming back from COVID protocol. That actually took the wind out of the entire season. The team was gelling and had a stretch of very winnable games ahead of them. They come back to a very compressed season with guys not quite at 100%. LeMarcus bolts about the same time and the season is completely different after that.

Keldon was taking over games at that point, and he never really returned to that level.

[Mr. Body]

He wasn't quite the same after coming back from COVID protocol. That actually took the wind out of the entire season. The team was gelling and had a stretch of very winnable games ahead of them. They come back to a very compressed season with guys not quite at 100%. LeMarcus bolts about the same time and the season is completely different after that.

Keldon was taking over games at that point, and he never really returned to that level.

The League also saddled the Spurs with an ungodly stretch to end the season.

[Mnky]

I see Keldon show up in a lot of list for top young players. More so than I've seen from any spur tbh. He definitely fell off once he got scared to shoot at thr end of the season. Became very one dimensional but was still putting up good enough stats with his opportunities.

If he can get his Bubble shot going again, it would do wonders for him. I wonder if he's adjusting something with skip and that's the reason for the inconsistency.

I have faith in him and vassell. Really hope the spurs let these young kids take over.

[koriwhat]

I see Keldon show up in a lot of list for top young players. More so than I've seen from any spur tbh. He definitely fell off once he got scared to shoot at thr end of the season. Became very one dimensional but was still putting up good enough stats with his opportunities.

If he can get his Bubble shot going again, it would do wonders for him. I wonder if he's adjusting something with skip and that's the reason for the inconsistency.

I have faith in him and vassell. Really hope the spurs let these young kids take over.

I see those two as the real future of the spurs and not so much the other young guns.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/n_magaro/status/1412566758972612610?s=21

[Dejounte]

So what specifically is impressing Reynolds about his former Spurs teammate? He says it's Johnson's improved shot and comfortability on the court.

"I think he's being freer. He's just finding himself," Reynolds said. "He's shooting the ball really well, attacking, doing what he does. I think he's getting more comfortable out there on the court."
He also notes the game is starting to slow down for Johnson.
Said Reynolds: "And the game is becoming second nature to him."

https://news4sanantonio.com/sports/spurs-zone/ex-spur-cam-reynolds-notes-an-improved-spurs-keldon-johnson

after hitting the “rookie wall” this past season, could we see a rise to stardom from Keldon next season? Hmm…

[K...]

The spurs have the worst future in all of sports history

[wildbill2u]

You have to realize that teams finally got around to a plan as to how to play him on both ends of the court after he got some playing time. It's the little adjustments that teams do when they have enough info to study a player that tend to slow down a rookie's development. He has to recognize how they are playing him on offense and defense and make his own adjustments with the help of the coaches. I believe he has the work ethic to come back and make the adjustments necessary when he is on the court. Some players never do this and attempt to bull their way though without tuning up their game. They don't last long.

[EasyMoney]

The spurs have the worst future in all of sports history



If you're going to troll, at least make it sound believable.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/shamscharania/status/1413618063145062407?s=21

promotion, baby!

[Dejounte]

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/tyrese-haliburton-and-keldon-johnson-of-the-usa-mens-select-team-picture-id1233898211?k=6&m=1233898211&s=612x612&w=0&h=7Lk8R8TXMBwxLDKIT_uc_dFgTWypnl-e1n9HP5U4t6U=

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/patrick-williams-tyrese-haliburton-and-keldon-johnson-of-the-usa-mens-picture-id1233897880?k=6&m=1233897880&s=612x612&w=0&h=tXOHvIDwOPdVzMBG5m0nk_tDq26G8sEeIsj7ryuOSuo=

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/keldon-johnson-of-the-usa-mens-select-team-smiles-during-practice-for-picture-id1233898161?k=6&m=1233898161&s=612x612&w=0&h=HS19w4EgBBl13qnxNO_gFYGRpfLiRxIiNZd95AWpKsU=

https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/keldon-johnson-of-the-usa-mens-select-team-poses-for-a-portrait-at-picture-id1233872584?k=6&m=1233872584&s=612x612&w=0&h=U61kuILUfJ0SwG_eVraZWSiVwjrTK63oM93bREXxfNI=

[K...]

what a goofball. gonna be a great glue guy if he doesn't reach stardom

[BacktoBasics]

what a goofball. gonna be a great glue guy if he doesn't reach stardom

I hope this team finds its superstar. Keldon could have a Manu or Pippen-ish type career alongside a star player.

[tim_duncan_fan]

I hope this team finds its superstar. Keldon could have a Manu or Pippen-ish type career alongside a star player.

So you're out on Keldon as the guy?

[Dejounte]

I hope this team finds its superstar. Keldon could have a Manu or Pippen-ish type career alongside a star player.

I recall that 20 pt/ 20 reb game this past season and I’m still getting Barkley vibes.

[dbestpro]

I just want the Spurs to stop playing Keldon at PF.

[buttsR4rebounding]

I just want the Spurs to stop playing Keldon at PF.

The biggest question with Keldon is does he have the lateral quickness to guard 3s? IMO that’s the Achilles heel of his game. While KJ gave max effort his defensive rating was 113.8. The only 3 players on the team that were worse were Quindary, IV, and DDR. I believe KJ will put in the work to raise the level of his offense. Lack of size makes guarding 4s tough and lack of lateral quickness will make it difficult to guard 3s.

[tim_duncan_fan]

I just want the Spurs to stop playing Keldon at PF.

Stop playing undersized altogether. Shit's been going on for near a decade.

[Dejounte]

The biggest question with Keldon is does he have the lateral quickness to guard 3s? IMO that’s the Achilles heel of his game. While KJ gave max effort his defensive rating was 113.8. The only 3 players on the team that were worse were Quindary, IV, and DDR. I believe KJ will put in the work to raise the level of his offense. Lack of size makes guarding 4s tough and lack of lateral quickness will make it difficult to guard 3s.


Stop playing undersized altogether. Shit's been going on for near a decade.

Honestly, I’m slowly accepting it. Jae Crowder is 6’6” and is out there as a 4 and he’s doing fine. Keldon can become a Jae Crowder type 4, but hopefully better.

[BacktoBasics]

So you're out on Keldon as the guy?

No, I wouldn’t 100% rule it out but even if he has a nice leap next season I still think he’s a ways off from being a nightly superstar.

We haven’t really seen the full identity of what he is as a player. This team doesn’t even have an identity yet. So until then I think he has the makings of a great compliment semi-star or upper tier role/utility player.

I think we’ll learn a lot this season about what he’s really going to be.

[SpursDynasty85]

Honestly, I’m slowly accepting it. Jae Crowder is 6’6” and is out there as a 4 and he’s doing fine. Keldon can become a Jae Crowder type 4, but hopefully better.

Yea but are our expectations for him to be Jae Crowder? If so that’s a very low bar. Jae Crowder is like their 5th or 6th option on offense.

[Dejounte]

Yea but are our expectations for him to be Jae Crowder? If so that’s a very low bar. Jae Crowder is like their 5th or 6th option on offense.


Honestly, I’m slowly accepting it. Jae Crowder is 6’6” and is out there as a 4 and he’s doing fine. Keldon can become a Jae Crowder type 4, but hopefully better.

More 3's, more of an in-between game, better handles = a more dynamic Keldon who will have great impact on the Spurs

[SpursDynasty85]

More 3's, more of an in-between game, better handles = a more dynamic Keldon who will have great impact on the Spurs
Jae Crowder, Marcus Smart, Patrick Beverly, and PJ Tuckers of the NBA are good but they are good because of their strength and defense. Those types cannot be relied upon for consistent scoring because all their energy is to bang their bodies around often against bigger players going at them. I don’t think
Keldon is suited for that, his defense is pretty bad for now even though he has a good mindset for it. His offense however has more potential so pairing with someone like that beside him can cover some of those flaws might work out. Moses Moody/Samanic would be a good pairing with him.

[TD 21]

Honestly, I’m slowly accepting it. Jae Crowder is 6’6” and is out there as a 4 and he’s doing fine. Keldon can become a Jae Crowder type 4, but hopefully better.

The difference is, Crowder is probably 240-245 (listed at 235, but that's his drafted weight and more than likely long outdated), with even more rudimentary ball skills than Johnson.

Ideally, Johnson would start at the 3 (if the 4 is a big wing type like Kuzma or Samanic, they can occasionally cross match), then play some 4 as matchups dictate.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Honestly, I’m slowly accepting it. Jae Crowder is 6’6” and is out there as a 4 and he’s doing fine. Keldon can become a Jae Crowder type 4, but hopefully better.

This is a weird year.

I think, once you have your necessary baseline of reliable outside shooters, length will win championships.

[kobyz]

Keldon Johnson = Caron Butler

[bluebellmaniac]

.

[Sugus]

I didn't watch last game, but he played pretty well tonight. I'm really hoping he makes the final team, not only for the experience, but because he'd be a great cog for the USA team - one of the only players on the roster who understands being a "roleplayer" and doesn't have expectations of their NBA stardom carrying over to the Olympics.

And I continue being impressed at how "in place" Keldon looks among better and better competition. We really have something special in this guy. He doesn't give me Nephew vibes (of the star-in-the-making kind...) consistently yet, but he's awesome to watch. Just wished Pop wasn't the Team USA coach, so he could get a different kind of coaching than he's accustomed to, and also not have to be slotted at PF full-time like Pop's become used to doing.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1427429481661321219

[Sugus]

https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1427429481661321219

:lol Keldon parading everywhere with the gold medal. Had it on him too when he attended the SL games. Show off the gold boy, you've earned it!


....Hoping for a day when he can roll around with NBA-related jewelry, tho :smokin

[ismael-robert]

He never played did he earn it? Guess he was good for practice

[XDT76]

He never played did he earn it? Guess he was good for practice

He played a couple of minutes in a couple of games.

[John B]

He never played did he earn it? Guess he was good for practice

He played a couple of games, as well as helped prepare the SL during practices.

Stop being a hater and just appreciate :lol

[CGD]

He never played did he earn it? Guess he was good for practice

By this logic the only player “deserving” in KD.

[cd98]

I think we would all be parading our gold medals around, even if we just sat on the bench too. Why not? How many people have those?

[Fireball]

Show what you got Keldon ... an olympic gold medal is special ... even more so in team sports!

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

I'll allow it

[Dejounte]

CTa1KtLgndc

[John B]

CTa1KtLgndc

Mid-range, side step. Looking good. Looking more like a SF, where he can overpower smaller defenders.

[KingKev]

Would love to see him repatriated to the 3 but I suspect given the current roster makeup and need for scoring McLovin starts at the 3 and Keldon at the 4.

[exstatic]

Mid-range, side step. Looking good. Looking more like a SF, where he can overpower smaller defenders.

He’s really not laterally quick enough to guard 3s.

[Brazil]

should be his breakout year after his gold medal. If he does not well...

[koriwhat]

Keldon will be at Buck & Doe's(24250 US-281, San Antonio, TX 78258) tomorrow for a meet and greet... I found that out yesterday while shooting a FN Herstall SCAR-H.

Go support your boy, grab an autograph, and let him know he's the future!

[stephen jackson]

Not sure if he has a role in a team built around the cornerstone, Bryn Forbes.
:cry

[John B]

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=4597922566905576&set=gm.6408962529115716&type=3
https://www.facebook.com/photo.phphttps://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=4597922566905576&set=gm.6408962529115716&type=3https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/blob:https://www.spurstalk.com/885622e9-53e1-45ee-a725-03ce487e4a9d

Not looking like big body now. Slimming down, getting faster for SF position?

[Dejounte]

https://i.ibb.co/Wxf3JT3/A33-C04-A3-8077-4862-BCB3-AF4-E86-E2-A2-FD.jpg

yup, he looks very slim.

[ace3g]

via Spurs twitter

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FJqQSD8WUAIDjrR?format=jpg&name=large

[John B]

via Spurs twitter

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FJqQSD8WUAIDjrR?format=jpg&name=large

Wow that went from Timmy to Cadillac?? :lol

[B1gduff]

15 and 6 reb, while having a Efg at .530, I;ll take it!

Anyone notice. how Keldon's Game has evolved throughout the season? I've liked what I am seeing from the offensive side, especially with how calm and collective he's playing since coming back from Covid.

[spurraider21]

so... is this guy's shooting for real? i'm still having a hard time buying it, even though its been a few months now

[talkspurs]

so... is this guy's shooting for real? i'm still having a hard time buying it, even though its been a few months now

He also shot well in college and the bubble.

[John B]

so... is this guy's shooting for real? i'm still having a hard time buying it, even though its been a few months now

Yup he’s been working hard on that. I think he realizes that his ticket could be a quasi 3 and D instead of a 4, not to be overmatched. I still see his guy blowing him, but the effort is there to stay in front. And that this team needs a quality 4 and that’s not him.

[KingKev]

Yup he’s been working hard on that. I think he realizes that his ticket could be a quasi 3 and D instead of a 4, not to be overmatched. I still see his guy blowing him, but the effort is there to stay in front. And that this team needs a quality 4 and that’s not him.

The 3 in 3/D doesn’t mean the position but represents 3pt shooter. You can be a 3 and D player and still play the 4.

[John B]

The 3 in 3/D doesn’t mean the position but represents 3pt shooter. You can be a 3 and D player and still play the 4.

But I don’t think he’ll be a stretch 4 though with his obvious height disadvantage. I think he’s working hard to play 3 and D at SF. I think it’s obvious to everyone that this team needs a modern day big.

[tbdog]

He needs to lose that big body to be a 3 in todays league

[DJR210]

I still see his guy blowing him

What feed have you been watching

[poopbox]

Is the dominant primary role playing out of position and getting raped by every power forward in the league? Cause thats the only thing Keldon does night in and night out

[John B]

What feed have you been watching

Does tonight game answered your question? :lol

[RC_Drunkford]

https://twitter.com/Money23Green/status/1488701269518675968?s=20&t=OzYQClzjg6qXmgI9QYHUwg

[Prose]

ever since he got covid he has regressed so much so that DJ is now the best player on this team. Earlier in the year he was the best player on the team

[Prose]

He wasn't quite the same after coming back from COVID protocol. That actually took the wind out of the entire season. The team was gelling and had a stretch of very winnable games ahead of them. They come back to a very compressed season with guys not quite at 100%. LeMarcus bolts about the same time and the season is completely different after that.

Keldon was taking over games at that point, and he never really returned to that level.

[Prose]

He wasn't quite the same after coming back from COVID protocol. That actually took the wind out of the entire season. The team was gelling and had a stretch of very winnable games ahead of them. They come back to a very compressed season with guys not quite at 100%. LeMarcus bolts about the same time and the season is completely different after that.

Keldon was taking over games at that point, and he never really returned to that level.

[The Truth #6]

What an enigma he is this year. Beyond being ill sized to play the 4, to me it’s really his (lack of) focus. Rare scoring outbursts. The rare game he decides to get 20 rebounds. Like, is he really just a kid with ADHD at heart? Despite the defense, he should be scoring way more. He’s sort of anonymous out there. Very weird.

[Sugus]

What an enigma he is this year. Beyond being ill sized to play the 4, to me it’s really his (lack of) focus. Rare scoring outbursts. The rare game he decides to get 20 rebounds. Like, is he really just a kid with ADHD at heart? Despite the defense, he should be scoring way more. He’s sort of anonymous out there. Very weird.

Well, as much as we go back and forth in here about whether he's fit to play PF or not, it's undeniable that being assigned a bigger, taller, heavier-than-you defensive matchup every night is very taxing on the body, especially over an 82-game season. His defense has really suffered this season (not like it was ever elite, but still) and his offense has been inconsistent at best, besides his shooting, which doesn't take up all that much energy, only aim (which luckily he seems to have found in spades).

I really adhere to Draymond's comments on him. He's better off slimming down (all that muscle weight, while helpful for bumping in the paint, doesn't come free), getting faster and nimbler, and focusing on trying to play the 3 as the Spurs get an actual force at PF, hopefully through the draft. Whether he'll ever be able to defend SFs is a question, but it's certainly worth the try, especially after having seen a full season of him at the 4. I like him, I really do, but he's not a solution at his current position/role. At least not unless you reshape the roster around his limitations, which he's not good enough to be worth.

He's got one of the more interesting off-seasons coming up this year. I really wanna see what he adds to his game and what he does with his (big) body.

[The Truth #6]

Totally agree about his off-season. I’m not writing him off. He could pull it all together next year. Also, I’m ok blaming McBuckets; I’d like to see a true PF to play alongside Keldon and move McB to the bench in a more appropriate role.

[XDT76]

Well, as much as we go back and forth in here about whether he's fit to play PF or not, it's undeniable that being assigned a bigger, taller, heavier-than-you defensive matchup every night is very taxing on the body, especially over an 82-game season. His defense has really suffered this season (not like it was ever elite, but still) and his offense has been inconsistent at best, besides his shooting, which doesn't take up all that much energy, only aim (which luckily he seems to have found in spades).

I really adhere to Draymond's comments on him. He's better off slimming down (all that muscle weight, while helpful for bumping in the paint, doesn't come free), getting faster and nimbler, and focusing on trying to play the 3 as the Spurs get an actual force at PF, hopefully through the draft. Whether he'll ever be able to defend SFs is a question, but it's certainly worth the try, especially after having seen a full season of him at the 4. I like him, I really do, but he's not a solution at his current position/role. At least not unless you reshape the roster around his limitations, which he's not good enough to be worth.

He's got one of the more interesting off-seasons coming up this year. I really wanna see what he adds to his game and what he does with his (big) body.

If he could find a way to grow 3". It will be a great off season

[Sugus]

Totally agree about his off-season. I’m not writing him off. He could pull it all together next year. Also, I’m ok blaming McBuckets; I’d like to see a true PF to play alongside Keldon and move McB to the bench in a more appropriate role.

Yeah, McB has been... Well, I couldn't say underwhelming, since he's pretty much came in and done exactly as advertised. Good shooting, cutting and finishing, and bad everything else. As much as a team like the Spurs appreciates and needs his shooting, he's obviously not a starting caliber player if your team wants to go anywhere, so that's a position to upgrade. I'm especially frustrated at his (and Keldon's to an extent) weakness on the boards, and anything defense-related; no boxouts of any kind, no fight for rebounds, no walling on defense, just matador-style, Let-Jakob-Handle-It defense, which not even the Utah Jazz can pull off successfully.

The league is way too spaced out nowadays, and those kinds of collapsing defense done by slow-footed players only end up in incessant kick outs to the wings for uncontested 3s. Annoying to watch, tbh.


If he could find a way to grow 3". It will be a great off season

:lol I don't see Keldon doing that, and tbh, I'd much rather Primo grows 3'' in the off-season. Would make for a much more interesting player, and his growth plates are (supposedly) still open, so... Get Primo Pasta on some HGH, pronto!

[XDT76]

Yeah, McB has been... Well, I couldn't say underwhelming, since he's pretty much came in and done exactly as advertised. Good shooting, cutting and finishing, and bad everything else. As much as a team like the Spurs appreciates and needs his shooting, he's obviously not a starting caliber player if your team wants to go anywhere, so that's a position to upgrade. I'm especially frustrated at his (and Keldon's to an extent) weakness on the boards, and anything defense-related; no boxouts of any kind, no fight for rebounds, no walling on defense, just matador-style, Let-Jakob-Handle-It defense, which not even the Utah Jazz can pull off successfully.

The league is way too spaced out nowadays, and those kinds of collapsing defense done by slow-footed players only end up in incessant kick outs to the wings for uncontested 3s. Annoying to watch, tbh.



:lol I don't see Keldon doing that, and tbh, I'd much rather Primo grows 3'' in the off-season. Would make for a much more interesting player, and his growth plates are (supposedly) still open, so... Get Primo Pasta on some HGH, pronto!

Yeah I know it's KJ is not gonna grow, however he would probably be a better PF than a SF however his height reduces his effectiveness in rebounding and interior defence.

[CGD]

He’s extension eligible after this season right? Wonder if he gets the Walker treatment.

[KingKev]

He’s extension eligible after this season right? Wonder if he gets the Walker treatment.

Keldon has def earned a White level extension and if he is willing to take that you lock him up even if you don’t see him as part of the future.

[rankingtear]

Well, as much as we go back and forth in here about whether he's fit to play PF or not, it's undeniable that being assigned a bigger, taller, heavier-than-you defensive matchup every night is very taxing on the body, especially over an 82-game season. His defense has really suffered this season (not like it was ever elite, but still) and his offense has been inconsistent at best, besides his shooting, which doesn't take up all that much energy, only aim (which luckily he seems to have found in spades).

I really adhere to Draymond's comments on him. He's better off slimming down (all that muscle weight, while helpful for bumping in the paint, doesn't come free), getting faster and nimbler, and focusing on trying to play the 3 as the Spurs get an actual force at PF, hopefully through the draft. Whether he'll ever be able to defend SFs is a question, but it's certainly worth the try, especially after having seen a full season of him at the 4. I like him, I really do, but he's not a solution at his current position/role. At least not unless you reshape the roster around his limitations, which he's not good enough to be worth.

He's got one of the more interesting off-seasons coming up this year. I really wanna see what he adds to his game and what he does with his (big) body.

I don't think it is worth the try, you can easily delay his progress up to this point similar to what happened to other tweeners like Aaron Gordon , Tobias Harris and Miles Bridges. Just let him continue his development and either bench or trade him if a better fit in terms of team building comes along. Draymond is suggesting 10-15 pound decrease that is career suicide for Keldon, at 205-210 his slashing game won't work.

[BacktoBasics]

Keldon has def earned a White level extension and if he is willing to take that you lock him up even if you don’t see him as part of the future.

Every once in awhile you make sense. You absolutely lock him up on a deal like White’s. If need be that would be a very movable contract and player. I hope he sticks around but he’s a nice bargaining chip if you can get him into a favorable contract like that.

[B1gduff]

Last 10 or so games; Kj has been averaging 20.5/7/2 and since the White trade's he had a similar output. He starting to show that potential that we all saw him. This upcoming offseason, fosuc should be defense (individual and team) and adding more to his offensive game.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Keldon has def earned a White level extension and if he is willing to take that you lock him up even if you don’t see him as part of the future.

:tu

[B1gduff]

besides the pt average, KJ numbers are quite close to Khris Middleton and even BI . That is a big Plus! KJ is looking more and more like that 2nd option behind Dj. There is still work on the offensive end and defensive end, but I can see KJ Being a 18-20 ppg sharpshooter with good Efficiency! with at least average defense

[The Truth #6]

KJ has slowly and quietly turned his season around. His leap from bad shooter to sharpshooter is really nuts.

[exstatic]

KJ has slowly and quietly turned his season around. His leap from bad shooter to sharpshooter is really nuts.

Slowly? He’s been railing since December. If you haven’t noticed, you weren’t paying attention.

He had maybe one rough shooting month at the start of the season, but the change wasn’t slow or gradual. It was like a switch got flipped, instant and immediate.

[Degoat]

He’s gonna get a BIGGG extension this off-season tbh

[KingKev]

He’s gonna get a BIGGG extension this off-season tbh

I think 4yrs 80mm is fair.

[barakz21]

I feel like KJ’s already on the same development track as DJ and nephew in that he’s adding small bits and pieces to his game until eventually it’ll all come together. It’s definitely been nice to see.

[CGD]

^ agree with this.

His growth, DJ’s well deserved all-star nod, Pops record, some smart FO moves at trade deadline, and potential for exciting draft/offseason has made this a good season, in context, of course.

If they make play in and win a game, would be a nice story too.

[rjv]

if not for KJ, the spurs would be nowhere near getting into the play-in at this point.

[Atl Spur]

KJ is balling, he deserves the credit.

[The Truth #6]

He does seem to be becoming a more complete player. At first it was only driving. Then it was only shooting. He's mixing it up and seems to be making better reads and passes now as well from what I've noticed.

[MannyIsGod]

Keldon's shooting the past 2 months has been below .400 and that is a bit worrying. Of course he's taking a higher volume of shots, so thats part of it as well. I don't consider him a sharp shooter, but he's done more than enough to be considered a threat from 3 point land and that is what we wanted to see. If he can be a career .400 shooter from 3 that is a bonus, but I'm a bit skeptical.

[Dejounte]

Keldon has surpassed Saddiq Bey as both a player and a prospect.

This is slowly looking like the Murray-trajectory when Murray slowly became better than his peers one player after another as time went on.

You love to see it.

Miles Bridges is the next guy he will surpass. Wait for it.

[XDT76]

Keldon has surpassed Saddiq Bey as both a player and a prospect.

This is slowly looking like the Murray-trajectory when Murray slowly became better than his peers one player after another as time went on.

You love to see it.

Miles Bridges is the next guy he will surpass. Wait for it.


Why the sudden comparison with Saddiq Bey, also isn't Bey drafted one year later same as Vassell, if Vassell exceeds Bey I will be excited but not so for KJ?

[Dejounte]

Why the sudden comparison with Saddiq Bey, also isn't Bey drafted one year later same as Vassell, if Vassell exceeds Bey I will be excited but not so for KJ?

Same age is my reason

[Max_Spurs]

His steady improvement is impressive, and above all the defensive side. He's not there yet but he's making progress, a steady one , very much like Dejounte. I expect both of them to keep improving.

[Atl Spur]

His steady improvement is impressive, and above all the defensive side. He's not there yet but he's making progress, a steady one , very much like Dejounte. I expect both of them to keep improving.

Truly cool to witness……

[Atl Spur]

What the Spurs do late round wise is extraordinary.

[exstatic]

What the Spurs do late round wise is extraordinary.

Chinook: They’re really not that good….

[spurraider21]

he doenst have a choice now

[Robz4000]

he doenst have a choice now

Unless he gets moved for a conditional pick too.

[Robz4000]

he doenst have a choice now

Unless he gets moved for a conditional pick too.

[RC_Drunkford]

Trade Keldon for 1 future pick in the low 20s, otherwise we need to pay his extension next year

[Atl Spur]

Keldon plays hard and low maintenance …….. he’ll be fine!

[Atl Spur]

Keldon plays hard and low maintenance …….. he’ll be fine!

[Mr. Body]

Keldon is going to cost money in the future. He gone.

[slick'81]

Spurs literally dont want to pay anyone the max

[KingKev]

Rinse and repeat. Murray stepped his game up major and was traded. Keldon is repoed by Klutch reminder. Rich Paul
is a smart guy. He ja pribably telling Keldon Sours are going to fuck him sooner or later

[ace3g]

Cfee0wFr-EA

[KingKev]

Rinse and repeat. Murray stepped his game up major and was traded. Keldon is repoed by Klutch reminder. Rich Paul
is a smart guy. He ja pribably telling Keldon Sours are going to fuck him sooner or later

Man we need the edit function back. Does Spurstalk need a gofund me page? Didn’t you get some PPC revenue for your 15 minutes of fame this week timvp ??

[Mr. Body]

Don't cheer for Keldon too hard this year. Just imagine him in another uniform.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/jeffgspurszone/status/1543397791262720001

Next MJ + Pippen duo tbh

[Mr. Body]

https://twitter.com/jeffgspurszone/status/1543397791262720001

Next MJ + Pippen duo tbh

For what team? My guess is Miami.

[TDMVPDPOY]

the goto guy roster spot with the green light to chuck is still open on the roster.....

then again this clown needs to focus on playing then concentrating shouting and1 everytime he drives to the basket

[CGD]

That’s so awesome that they’re working at Leijas gym. Had wondered if the team kept that relationship going.

[Ice009]

For what team? My guess is Miami.

Man, if you or anyone else on the team don't like it, they can leave. Tim Duncan came to a 20 win team. They need to take this as a challenge. Tim Duncan didn't bitch out. What a weak attitude people have these days (if they're not on a stacked team, they're not willing to work and just want out).
Work your ass off and make it happen.

[KingKev]

Man, if you or anyone else on the team don't like it, they can leave. Tim Duncan came to a 20 win team. They need to take this as a challenge. Tim Duncan didn't bitch out. What a weak attitude people have these days (if they're not on a stacked team, they're not willing to work and just want out).
Work your ass off and make it happen.

Not to discount Tim Duncan’s legacy but this is a tad revisionist.

[BatManu20]

Keldon depressed confirmed. My guy looks down in the dumps.

1542935772180930563

[John B]

Man, if you or anyone else on the team don't like it, they can leave. Tim Duncan came to a 20 win team. They need to take this as a challenge. Tim Duncan didn't bitch out. What a weak attitude people have these days (if they're not on a stacked team, they're not willing to work and just want out).
Work your ass off and make it happen.

Bruh Timmy was coming to a 50+ win team with injury, 55, 62, 59 before that 20 win DRob injury season. That’s wayyy different with this team now.

[John B]

Spurs literally dont want to pay anyone the max

Not the current roster. And not DJ who’s peak is at best a 3rd option in a winning team. Like why buy a Miata when you can get a convertible Camaro?

[KingKev]

Not the current roster. And not DJ who’s peak is at best a 3rd option in a winning team. Like why buy a Miata when you can get a convertible Camaro?

Haha I choose neither

[tim_duncan_fan]

Keldon depressed confirmed. My guy looks down in the dumps.

1542935772180930563

Not depressed. Sad about the DJ situation, but also, the major element is fear of the unknown. Dude was 12 years old yesterday, and now people are telling him he has to lead this NBA team when he just started stringing together multiple 20-point games last week. He isn't depressed; he's nervous as shit lmao.

It's going to be interesting to see what he does with the opportunity in front of him, not to mention the two guys he mentioned. This is the most exciting time in the last 4 years, really. Let's get it.

[tim_duncan_fan]

It's not that the Spurs don't want to pay anyone. They don't want to pay just anyone. I believe Demar, and to some extent LaMarcus as well, showed the Spurs that you don't pay for guys who don't REALLY move the needle. Now, there is the matter of attendance, but it is not like DJ was really making that much of a difference there.

We need the edit button, timvp, c'mon bruh.

[Mr. Body]

Not depressed. Sad about the DJ situation, but also, the major element is fear of the unknown. Dude was 12 years old yesterday, and now people are telling him he has to lead this NBA team when he just started stringing together multiple 20-point games last week. He isn't depressed; he's nervous as shit lmao.

It's going to be interesting to see what he does with the opportunity in front of him, not to mention the two guys he mentioned. This is the most exciting time in the last 4 years, really. Let's get it.

Lol, how is this exciting for him? The FO just rug pulled the dumb bastard. This 'all in it together' and they sell off his brother. If he's not depressed, he's dejected and knows his time with the team is essentially over, too. He's a dead man walking. And here the fan base is rooting for as many losses as possible.

[Slippy]

Like King kev suggested ..Keldon should be worried what sort of relationship klutch and the FO have.

[widowmaker]

Like King kev suggested ..Keldon should be worried what sort of relationship klutch and the FO have.


Hes probably scared cause he realized that the Spurs are nothing more than a player farm for the rest of the league. He knows him an Vassell are next.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Lol, how is this exciting for him? The FO just rug pulled the dumb bastard. This 'all in it together' and they sell off his brother. If he's not depressed, he's dejected and knows his time with the team is essentially over, too. He's a dead man walking. And here the fan base is rooting for as many losses as possible.

I'm not sure it was entirely a Spurs-initiated thing. I don't even think the Spurs would haphazardly fuck over a Klutch player. I don't think Keldon was caught off guard. They're close and have the same agent.

We are rooting for losses, but I have to think many are also hoping something happens between Keldon/Vassell/Primo that will make us all think they can be more than what we have seen so far, individually and together.

[KingKev]

I’m interested to see how Keldon’s extension plays out this fall. I think 4yrs 75-80mm would be a fair deal for both sides. I really hope we don’t low ball him. We got DJ on a discount because of his injury, that was a big reason he already had to take money off the table. Since then the salary cap is up another 20%.

[scott]

Like King kev suggested ..Keldon should be worried what sort of relationship klutch and the FO have.

It can be argued the relationship is fantastic. The Spurs have proven time and again they will develop a payer and then send him to a contender in a professional manner that benefits all sides. If you are a guy like Keldon, sure you are sad now but he should quickly realize that if continue to develop he’ll either:

1) fit the Spurs timeline and be on a contender in SA (at which point we’d assume the Spurs would be willing to pay a ,Ariel deal
2) not fit the Spurs timeline and they’ll put him in a place he can compete and continue to thrive

Sounds like a good place to be for young developing talent. Reminds me a little of Borussia Dortmund in German soccer (though BVB tends to stay more competitive than the Spurs, they’re essentially a development ground for big stars who eventually go on to Europe’s biggest clubs)

[KingKev]

To be fair I have no problem with Klutch really. They are a power house agent/broker that you have to deal with; like it or not.

[Slippy]

It can be argued the relationship is fantastic. The Spurs have proven time and again they will develop a payer and then send him to a contender in a professional manner that benefits all sides. If you are a guy like Keldon, sure you are sad now but he should quickly realize that if continue to develop he’ll either:

1) fit the Spurs timeline and be on a contender in SA (at which point we’d assume the Spurs would be willing to pay a ,Ariel deal
2) not fit the Spurs timeline and they’ll put him in a place he can compete and continue to thrive

Sounds like a good place to be for young developing talent. Reminds me a little of Borussia Dortmund in German soccer (though BVB tends to stay more competitive than the Spurs, they’re essentially a development ground for big stars who eventually go on to Europe’s biggest clubs)

[Slippy]

Agree with a lot of what you said but it is looking rhrough some very rosy coloured spurs glasses. Number 2 . Lets use dj as that example. He would of thrived here as a number one option. In atlanta his usage will go down . He may win but his production will take a hit. There goes that big pay day he thought was coming. Also what if they lose. I mean talking atlanta hawks.

Keldon should have concerns.

[Dejounte]

Unfortunately, I don’t know how to convert this away from Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/taro.kotani.3/videos/1719457621755308/

https://www.facebook.com/taro.kotani.3/videos/446554723798258/

looks like Keldon’s athleticism has improved greatly

[Ocotillo]

I got a message it was not available now, that it might be only shared with a small group of people or it may have been deleted.

[Dejounte]

They are videos of him jumping explosively with barely any lift off

[KingKev]

Just read Keldon is our highest rated NBA 2k23 player @ 82, followed by Jak @ 80 and Roby @ 77.

Keldon/Jak seem fair and not that these matter but lol Roby 3rd best wtf?

[GAustex]

Roby did some damage last when Spurs played OKC

[Ocotillo]

Roby did some damage last when Spurs played OKC

I like the addition of Roby and believe he will be a good rotational player. Just because he is not the next KD or Tatum doesn't mean the guy is not an asset. Eventually, I hope he is the backup to Sochan once he gets into the lineup.

[Rocalcio]

Still, Vassell should be ahead of Roby.

[Atl Spur]

Roby had a decent year

[Ice009]

Roby had a decent year

Why was he waived if he had a decent year?

[lefty20]

Why was he waived if he had a decent year?

Aged out of OKC's plan. Presti is the DiCaprio of NBA.

SGA is next.

[ismael-robert]

They've drafted higher potential player at same position

[exstatic]

Aged out of OKC's plan. Presti is the DiCaprio of NBA.

SGA is next.

They also waived him before Chet went down, or there might have been a different choice.

[jjspur]

The Thunder have some decent talent but its mostly young talent which will take time to develop. If they let go of Roby, it certainly wasn't for financial reasons, but probably they saw more potential in another player they drafted or signed and wanted to give them minutes instead. That being said, Roby has as much potential/skill as some of our 2nd or third teamers if not more. Their loss is our gain, and who knows maybe he shows something here and ends up staying for more than a year. This team could use any decent young talent they get their hands on.

[KingKev]

The Thunder have some decent talent but its mostly young talent which will take time to develop. If they let go of Roby, it certainly wasn't for financial reasons, but probably they saw more potential in another player they drafted or signed and wanted to give them minutes instead. That being said, Roby has as much potential/skill as some of our 2nd or third teamers if not more. Their loss is our gain, and who knows maybe he shows something here
and ends up staying for more than a year. This team could use any decent young talent they get their hands on.

Still, this should be sobering… he was cut by OKC but is almost assured a role for us even though we have 18 guys under contract.

[exstatic]

Still, this should be sobering… he was cut by OKC but is almost assured a role for us even though we have 18 guys under contract.
OKC is going to be cutting guys every year, guys with talent. When you have a bazillion draft picks, your roster is going to churn. They just drafted their PF of the future, so a forward was a likely cut. We were guard heavy, and in a period of 4 months, we traded or got rid of 3 of them. We’ve been in need of forwards for a while, and a good one dropped into our lap. That’s good.

[TD 21]

OKC is going to be cutting guys every year, guys with talent. When you have a bazillion draft picks, your roster is going to churn. They just drafted their PF of the future, so a forward was a likely cut. We were guard heavy, and in a period of 4 months, we traded or got rid of 3 of them. We’ve been in need of forwards for a while, and a good one dropped into our lap. That’s good.

Holmgren is a combo big who is more of a five, he's just too physically underdeveloped to play solo big in most cases at this point.

[KingKev]

OKC is going to be cutting guys every year, guys with talent. When you have a bazillion draft picks, your roster is going to churn. They just drafted their PF of the future, so a forward was a likely cut. We were guard heavy, and in a period of 4 months, we traded or got rid of 3 of them. We’ve been in need of forwards for a while, and a good one dropped into our lap. That’s good.

We aren’t going to be far behind in terms of having to cut decent prospects in the years to come.

[jjspur]

OKC is going to be cutting guys every year, guys with talent. When you have a bazillion draft picks, your roster is going to churn. They just drafted their PF of the future, so a forward was a likely cut. We were guard heavy, and in a period of 4 months, we traded or got rid of 3 of them. We’ve been in need of forwards for a while, and a good one dropped into our lap. That’s good.

When you have a bazillion draft picks like OKC you can afford to let go some "average" talent go in favor of a draft pick or signing. I think the spurs would like to be in the same position and seem to be slowly inching in that direction with multiple picks in the next few years. We can only hope. OKC may have more future picks but least the spurs are better at developing talent they do draft.

[XDT76]

Still, this should be sobering… he was cut by OKC but is almost assured a role for us even though we have 18 guys under contract.

We have 2 guys cut by other teams who were important players for our 13 final and 14 championship. D.Green and B. Diaw. So getting cut by other teams does not mean the player is not good.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh2oCJpOTFI

[Phenomanul]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yh2oCJpOTFI

Difficult not to root for him. He seems to have his head screwed on right.

[Em-City]

We have 2 guys cut by other teams who were important players for our 13 final and 14 championship. D.Green and B. Diaw. So getting cut by other teams does not mean the player is not good.

Spurs also cut jamychal green who was a solid role player in the years following. Need and timing is a big factor

[KingKev]

Hard not to route for Keldon. Going to be interesting to see how he responds this up coming season after earning that deal and now arguably becoming the face of the franchise atleast for the interim.

Still think Vassell takes the reigns by year end in terms of our best goto scorer.

[Atl Spur]

Kj is a helluva example to follow!!

[Dejounte]

He’s arrived tbh

[Kurik]

Might buy his Jersey tbh. Outplaying DeRozan must have felt good.

[objective]

I was wrong on his potential. Averaging 23+ points a game, even if he hasn't faced premier defenders this early in the season, is pretty damn great.

[ace3g]

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

[timtonymanu]

OP's better at recognizing talent than Atl Spur for sure.

[Atl Spur]

OP's better at recognizing talent than Atl Spur for sure.

Word? You might be on to something��

[RC_Drunkford]

He's a sniper from 3 and still got areas to improve. He's a natural scorer

[mystargtr34]

Man Keldon really looks like he’s gonna be a night in night out 25 PPG guy which is incredible as a 28th pick and he’s not long 23.

[tim_duncan_fan]

He play 3. He play 4.

He play Point Gawd!

[Dejounte]

Keldon “Dagger” Johnson
Keldon “2022-2023 All Star” Johnson
Keldon “Sniper” Johnson
Keldon “Point God” Johnson

[Gibbz]

Dude is dripping with swagger and is only gonna get better. He's better than I could have ever imagined.

[offset formation]

Keldon “Dagger” Johnson
Keldon “2022-2023 All Star” Johnson
Keldon “Sniper” Johnson
Keldon “Point God” Johnson

Guess he's no longer Big Body now that he's trimmed down and muscled up.

He makes the Samanic pick not hurt. Whats gonna make the Primo pick not hurt?

[Dejounte]

Guess he's no longer Big Body now that he's trimmed down and muscled up.

He makes the Samanic pick not hurt. Whats gonna make the Primo pick not hurt?

Easiest transition ever with Branham or Wesley right there

[offset formation]

Easiest transition ever with Branham or Wesley right there

{{hoping}}

Would also love Wembanyama though.

[RC_Drunkford]

Paul Pierce 2.0

[slick'81]

Alstar nod coming up

[tim_duncan_fan]

He's gotta gotta gotta learn to get more free throws next. That's the next step to get to automatic 25ppg.

He's not going to go 5/10 from deep every night.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/dylangonzalez21/status/1586892326953172994?s=

[Dejounte]

Please Keldon just keep your dick in your pants for the love of

[timvp]

prayingdog.jpg @ this thread still getting bumped ten years from now

[DAF86]

Please Keldon just keep your dick in your pants for the love of

From that christmas photo with that guy, that was posted some years ago, he might keep dicks in his ass. Not that there's anything wrong with that, tbh.

[RC_Drunkford]

I think it’s pretty clear he could be a 2nd option on a contender. Could he be a franchise player though? What y‘all think?

[BackHome]

Yes to the first No to the second

[mo7888]

I think it’s pretty clear he could be a 2nd option on a contender. Could he be a franchise player though? What y‘all think?

I'm going with 2nd player on a contender...I don't think he's a first option for a contender and that's ok..

[tim_duncan_fan]

I don't know that he is done expanding yet.

He wasn't even a "3 and D" guy before a random weekend last year when he decided he should become a good three-point shooter.

A legit drive-game could be next.