Game Thread: Spurs at Lakers — Jan. 7, 2021 - 9:00pm/C TV:FSSW

[YoungbuckMurray]

Keldon struggling to finish

[Drewlius]

Pop almost donked this game off, why the hell was Aldridge sitting for so long?

[Uriel]

Great D by Jakob, rising to the challenge :tu

[XDT76]

DDR wanted to try the mills trick on AD too bad the ref is not giving it this time

[r0drig0lac]

some people realizing that Keldon is human

[r0drig0lac]

Pop almost donked this game off, why the hell was Aldridge sitting for so long?

yep, just weird

[PhantomDashCam]

Hope Lonnie OK. Took a shoulder from AD to end the 3rd, haven’t seen him since. Was a positive out there.

[Capt Bringdown]

Pop almost donked this game off, why the hell was Aldridge sitting for so long?

Lakers live rent-free in Pop's Cabernet-addled noggin.

[Dejounte]

some people realizing that Keldon is human

His defense has been OK to good, offense though... Missing layups he knows he can make. I'm sure he'll stay on the court after the game to practice.

[RC_Drunkford]

Pop almost donked this game off, why the hell was Aldridge sitting for so long?

classic Flopovich. Dumbass rotations is what we‘re used to

[NASpurs]

That lineup of Murray, DeRozan, KJ, Gay and LMA is huge by our standards.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/TheTyJager/status/1347408862014529542?s=19

[Ron Swanson]

Nice board by Murray.

[r0drig0lac]

His defense has been OK to good, offense though... Missing layups he knows he can make. I'm sure he'll stay on the court after the game to practice.

no doubt

[Dejounte]

Hope Lonnie OK. Took a shoulder from AD to end the 3rd, haven’t seen him since. Was a positive out there.

He's on the sidelines... He looks okay

[XDT76]

Didn't the Spurs open up the lead from 2 to 10 when LMA is sitting? What is wrong with the rotation? You let him rest more than he can carry the last 5 mins through. This is place is really becoming a bitching place, Pop plays LMA why the old fk keeps playing vet, he sits LMA pop having shit rotation.

[r0drig0lac]

That lineup of Murray, DeRozan, KJ, Gay and LMA is huge by our standards.

yep, i like

[NASpurs]

Keldon didn't play the preseason, plays against the other team's best player every night and has played like 8 (?) games straight. I'm sure he's hit some kind of wall.

[Seventyniner]

Please finish this game stronger than the last one.

[justinandimcool]

stops on demand tbh

[YoungbuckMurray]

Big boy rebound by DJ, Rudy bullying his man down low love it

[RC_Drunkford]

That lineup of Murray, DeRozan, KJ, Gay and LMA is huge by our standards.

that‘s a good line up for when you’re having to switch. Puts size on LBJ and AD regardless who guard them

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/JillJelnick/status/1347406323118444544?s=19

Man my 71 year old uncle cant even jump that high

[Uriel]

This game is over. Hopefully the Fakers wave the white flag already (they have a back-to-back) so we can get some Luka time.

[TheGreatYacht]

Murray is the best player on the team and it honestly isn't even close. When he was out in the 3'rd our offense turned into Melo ball :lol

[NASpurs]

So of course Pop's going to take that length away by bringing in Patty. Nothing against Patty.

[r0drig0lac]

Murray is a beast

[poopbox]

the lakers don't have any timeouts so how can they challenge

[Chinook]

LAL doesn't have time-outs. How are they challenging this?

[Capt Bringdown]

Rozan is the king of 4th quarter blown layups.

[Dejounte]

Man LeBron complains like one entitled mother fucker

[SpurPadre]

I wonder when this team will shed this deer in headlights act when it's under 3 minutes to go.

[r0drig0lac]

lakers ball

[duncan2k5]

DeRozan is so predictably horrible late game

[TheGreatYacht]

Oh god, don't put the ball on DeFrozan's hands as per usual in the 4th....

[Kurgan]

Derozan choking like usual at the end of the game.

[RC_Drunkford]

That’s clearly off LeBron

[NASpurs]

Fucking Dejounte, why couldn't you be a size 9 shoe.

[YoungbuckMurray]

To me not conclusive and should be our ball

[KaiRMD1]

Good god, that was close

[justinandimcool]

didn’t even realize it’s Zach Zarba and a couple new faces, no wonder it’s being called fair tonight tbh

[John B]

Spurs ball

[KaiRMD1]

Now LeBron is pissed

[Dejounte]

LeBron just fouled him to get out. What a sore fucking loser. He just quit on the game.

[duncan2k5]

Murray is the best player on the team and it honestly isn't even close. When he was out in the 3'rd our offense turned into Melo ball :lol

Facts

[Seventyniner]

Late game iso-DDR has to go. Do what got you to this point.

[TheGreatYacht]

Defrozan ISO ball :lmao Fuck Pop

[YoungbuckMurray]

Does Demar ever get a call at the rim?

[r0drig0lac]

it's over 4-4

[KaiRMD1]

Looks like the fakers are waving the white flag

[$pursDynasty]

Victory!!!

[Uriel]

BRING IN SAMANIC.

[NASpurs]

Lebron's like "fuck this, game over"

[TheGreatYacht]

Bron must've not watched tape. They're still in this when Pop isn't ejected....

[FkLA]

This ain't your Brent Forms era Spurs, boys.

[Sugus]

Spurs win!! Against the Fakers no less :elephant

[Arcadian]

I'm surprised they're conceding with 2 minutes left down 10

[Uriel]

Spurs record with Aldridge: 3-1
Spurs record without Aldridge: 0-4

[John B]

White flag

[duncan2k5]

We need to start transitioning to have Murray with the ball at the end of games... Not only is DeRozan horrible, but these are the times murray needs to learn how to close games with the ball in his hands... He is our future... Not DeRozan...

[KaiRMD1]

I'm surprised they're conceding with 2 minutes left down 10

When LeBron quits, that's pretty much all you need to know

[Uriel]

SAMANIC TIME.

[timtonymanu]

Lol losing to the Spurs
Lol faker fans

[TheGreatYacht]

Spurs record with Aldridge: 3-1
Spurs record without Aldridge: 0-4
Poeltl sucks and so do advanced stats. If you have eyeballs that scrub is terrible

[$pursDynasty]

Luka comes in less than a minute to play and still gets owned

[Bynumite]

They should but i don't think they will, in the 2 recent games the Lakers played vs the Grizz, they got complacent and fell into early deficits. Memphis is awful without Morant though and Lakers managed to win anyway. If the Spurs manage to land a solid early blow like they did against the Clips, don't think the Lakers win.

This game has Fat Antonio W written all over it, being the game where they can avoid the season sweep too.

Called it.

[r0drig0lac]

with Aldridge, we probably would have won two or three against them

[poopbox]

I'm still confused how the lakers were able to challenge a play without a timeout

[MultiTroll]

Much more good then bad.
:bobo

[Seventyniner]

28 assists, 6 turnovers, 46% from three and 94% from the line, against an elite team no less. This team has some serious potential.

[Mugen]

Of course these fuckers would ruin my bet :lol

[$pursDynasty]

Spurs record with Aldridge: 3-1
Spurs record without Aldridge: 0-4

But but but ST says LMA does nothing for us and should be given away

[r0drig0lac]

We need to start transitioning to have Murray with the ball at the end of games... Not only is DeRozan horrible, but these are the times murray needs to learn how to close games with the ball in his hands... He is our future... Not DeRozan...

..but spurstalk said Murray would be playing in the cba after his contract

[Dejounte]

Spurs are tied for 4th seed.

[NASpurs]

Best back to back wins in the past two years?

[RC_Drunkford]

Best game of the season so far. Hope Lonnie is alright, he played great tonight

[Robz4000]

Beating the Lakers is always a good win. Who gets game ball?

[$pursDynasty]

with Aldridge, we probably would have won two or three against them

This, Pop saving it for the playoffs, CIA

[SpurPadre]

I'm still confused how the lakers were able to challenge a play without a timeout

1. They're L.A.
2. They have LeBron
3. They're the Champs

[TDomination]

Spurs record with Aldridge: 3-1
Spurs record without Aldridge: 0-4

lets hope he stays healthy

[John B]

4-4 bitches

[Mugen]

I'm surprised they're conceding with 2 minutes left down 10

Seriously, it's like they haven't watched the Spurs the last 2 seasons

[RC_Drunkford]

Spurs record with Aldridge: 3-1
Spurs record without Aldridge: 0-4

what a difference it makes when you get 28 points from your starting Center instead of 0 while simultaneously providing spacing

[Gibbz]

Aldridge was out for three of the losses and got injured in the other loss. He's lost a step but he's still crucial for this team's success.

[Mugen]

Beating the Lakers is always a good win. Who gets game ball?

Fat Lamarcus tbh.

[Dejounte]

Credit to Aldridge, he's been playing better defense than the beginning of the season.

[Mugen]

Best game of the season so far. Hope Lonnie is alright, he played great tonight

What happened? He hurt?

[r0drig0lac]

This, Pop saving it for the playoffs, CIA

the best part of this game was watching pop using DJ Demar KJ Gay LMA together, I hope to see this line up against the 76ers for a few minutes

[Mugen]

Aldridge was out for three of the losses and got injured in the other loss. He's lost a step but he's still crucial for this team's success.

He's crucial because it means that garbage ass Eubanks would never, ever sniff the floor :lol

[emanueldavidginobili]

Dejounte still makes bone headed plays sometimes but he’s been damn good this year, his ability to finish around the rim is shockingly better than I would have ever thought it would be this season.

[RD2191]

:flag:

[$pursDynasty]

the best part of this game was watching pop using DJ Demar KJ Gay LMA together, I hope to see this line up against the 76ers for a few minutes

And when White gets back, boom!!!

[SpurPadre]

what a difference it makes when you get 28 points from your starting Center instead of 0 while simultaneously providing spacing

And you don't give playing time to a career G Leaguer.

[NASpurs]

16 made 3s with Patty only making one.

[Dejounte]

Dejounte still makes bone headed plays sometimes but he’s been damn good this year, his ability to finish around the rim is shockingly better than I would have ever thought it would be this season.

If this is the DJ we're permanently getting, we're set at guards and wings for years to come.

DJ
White
Keldon
Vassell
Lonnie

[RC_Drunkford]

What happened? He hurt?

not sure but he barely played the 2nd half

[NASpurs]

And DeRozan leading the team in +/- :wow

[Seventyniner]

Best back to back wins in the past two years?

Blowing out Milwaukee at home on January 6 (126-104) and then solidly beating Boston on the road on January 8 (129-114) was a bit better imo.

Beating both conference finalists, albeit at home, on March 16 and 18 in 2019 was also pretty good (108-103 over Portland, 111-105 over Golden State). Hard to rank that versus tonight and the previous game.

[TheGreatYacht]

:flag:
Wolves by 20 next game tbh

[Atl Spur]

Who pissed in Mugen Cheerios? Great win....Devin needs more minutes!!

[RC_Drunkford]

Dejounte still makes bone headed plays sometimes but he’s been damn good this year, his ability to finish around the rim is shockingly better than I would have ever thought it would be this season.

his improvement has been massive. He has worked on his left hand and finishing from various angles. His decision making has also gotten a lot better and the jumper is more consistent. That Murray/White back court will be a problem for other teams

[Sugus]

sPuRs ArE nOt PlAyInG wInNinG bAsKeTbAlL tHo :lmao

[Kurgan]

what a difference it makes when you get 28 points from your starting Center instead of 0 while simultaneously providing spacing

Yeah, as good a defender as Poeltl is he'll never be a threat on offense. Doesn't matter how much he practices his shot or how much instruction he gets from Chip. The guy shoots nearly 0% at the free throw line. It's not ever happening for him.

[SpurPadre]

In an alternate reality, what would our record be if we had Wiseman and LMA were a Dub that had a healthy Klay?

[John B]

what a difference it makes when you get 28 points from your starting Center instead of 0 while simultaneously providing spacing
If he continues this, he'll extend his career not getting beat in the post as much

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

[Seventyniner]

If this is the DJ we're permanently getting, we're set at guards and wings for years to come.

DJ
White
Keldon
Vassell
Lonnie

I can't imagine the Spurs retaining all five of them past their rookie contracts. That would leave very little money for bigs, and I'm not bullish on Poeltl as a long-term starter.

Murray and White have already signed extensions and Keldon is well on his way to a max if he keeps improving at this pace. I see Lonnie as the odd one out, and while Vassell looks good right now, we don't know yet if he will justify his own large extension.

There's also the factor that you can only put 4 of those 5 on the court at the same time if Keldon plays PF (which I'm not yet sold on him being able to do every single night) or if Pop plays microball.

[Sugus]

In an alternate reality, what would our record be if we had Wiseman and LMA were a Dub that had a healthy Klay?

7-1 tbh.

[Degoat]

Never gets old beating the lakers :bobo lol I’ve been really impressed with Murray’s consistency this year, all the yoongins look like they’re starting to figure things out.

[Fusternino]

LMA coming back on a Duncanesque 2/10 deal?

[NASpurs]

Blowing out Milwaukee at home on January 6 (126-104) and then solidly beating Boston on the road on January 8 (129-114) was a bit better imo.

Beating both conference finalists, albeit at home, on March 16 and 18 in 2019 was also pretty good (108-103 over Portland, 111-105 over Golden State). Hard to rank that versus tonight and the previous game.

Man that Boston game last year was awesome. Had completely forgotten those two games, it's been a long year. :lol Don't know if you actually remembered them or had to look them up :lol

[r0drig0lac]

JOKER!!!

[YoungbuckMurray]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large


is this from tonight? Omg

[DAF86]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

:lmao:lmao:lmao

[SpurPadre]

7-1 tbh.

Dubs would've definitely been a title contender, that's for sure.

[RD2191]

Wolves by 20 next game tbh
:lol tbh

[NASpurs]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

Pop's looking like Doc Brown

[Dejounte]

I can't imagine the Spurs retaining all five of them past their rookie contracts. That would leave very little money for bigs, and I'm not bullish on Poeltl as a long-term starter.

Murray and White have already signed extensions and Keldon is well on his way to a max if he keeps improving at this pace. I see Lonnie as the odd one out, and while Vassell looks good right now, we don't know yet if he will justify his own large extension.

There's also the factor that you can only put 4 of those 5 on the court at the same time if Keldon plays PF (which I'm not yet sold on him being able to do every single night) or if Pop plays microball.

It will fit, bro. Lonnie is the only X factor in the financials. He's got to accept the same amount as Murray and it will work. I ran these numbers already. Vassell, we don't need to worry about for many years for his extension. By then, we would be able to make something work.

[DAF86]

Damn, Pop got some hops for a pops. :lol

[RD2191]

Pop's looking like Doc Brown
I can see him and his son Bryn going on all sorts of whacky adventures in the DeLorean.

[Mugen]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

Holy fuck I'm dead :lol

[RC_Drunkford]

Yeah, as good a defender as Poeltl is he'll never be a threat on offense. Doesn't matter how much he practices his shot or how much instruction he gets from Chip. The guy shoots nearly 0% at the free throw line. It's not ever happening for him.

Poeltl is not even that good of a defender. He cant guard big men period. Besides that him being a non threat on offense clogs up the driving lanes. And then he dives deep to the rim, catches the ball and passes it back out to the player who just gave him the ball. This team would be a lot better with another mobile 3-point shooting big who can put some points on the board

[PhantomDashCam]

My observations:

- LMA still has some gas in the tank. Best game of the season for the Big Rig. Was engaged from the tip, shot the ball well and made an effort defensively. It’s not always going to be pretty but Spurs can live with the off games on O if he brings the hard hat consistently on D. Great job LMA.

- DJ may be in conversation for league’s most improved player by season’s end. I though he controlled the game masterfully tonight, mixing in jump shots, drives, dishes, defence - he was phenomenal. His play has clearly gone up a couple of notches since the bubble and is playing a cerebral, inspired brand of ball I wasn’t sure he was capable of. Awesome to see.

- KJ’s energy. Didn’t seem to have the same juice we’ve become accustomed too. Was it the missed dunk to start the game? Admirably competing out of position to start the season leading to some fatigue? Not sure. Something to monitor on the trip to Minnesota. He will have a favourable matchup in those contests. I would expect him to bounce back.

- Rudy G took shots within the flow of the Offence. Psyched about this. Took smart shots, rarely called his own number and the results were positive - especially in that 4th q.

Great win fam, now let’s go hunt some wolf.

https://media2.giphy.com/media/BoHTHKSB9R45kmVZh4/giphy.gif?cid=790b7611e9nty9jiye6acpq5byps65a6jyyr fjttjiom14af&rid=giphy.gif

[SpurPadre]

Damn, Pop got some hops for a pops. :lol

As athletic as many Spurs players throughout the Pop era, tbh.

[NASpurs]

I can see him and his son Bryn going on all sorts of whacky adventures in the DeLorean.

Back to the 90s when one-dimensional players like Bryn were useful. :lol

[RC_Drunkford]

LMA coming back on a Duncanesque 2/10 deal?

I thought about that too. That would actually make a ton of sense and allow us to further improve the team. LMA being a jump shooter is capable to have a couple more productive years

[John B]

is this from tonight? Omg
:lmao:lmao:lmao

[Mr. Body]

Would have beaten the Lakers last game if Aldridge was available.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/tom_orsborn/status/1347418687830167552?s=19

[cool cat]

Love him or hate him, LMA generally plays well against AD.

[r0drig0lac]

LMA coming back on a Duncanesque 2/10 deal?

nah...maybe 45/3

[Budkin]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

This might be the best pic of Pop ever! :lmao

[Seventyniner]

Man that Boston game last year was awesome. Had completely forgotten those two games, it's been a long year. :lol Don't know if you actually remembered them or had to look them up :lol

I looked them up, but right after I saw the scores I remembered the games themselves. That Boston win was damn impressive, I didn't expect the Spurs to win that game let alone beat them that bad.

I only vaguely remember those POR/GS games, I just found it while looking at past schedules.

[barakz21]

Too early in the season, but DJ’s averaging early-pre all star TP numbers while playing well consistently. Hopefully he keeps it up.

[Mr. Body]

Love him or hate him, LMA generally plays well against AD.

One reason why when people were saying Anthony Davis has been a better PF than Timmy, I said he's not even better than Aldridge in his career.

[SpurPadre]

Back to the 90s when one-dimensional players like Bryn were useful. :lol

He still wouldn't have been useful without defensive ability. MJ would've dropped 200 points on his ass lol.

[RD2191]

Back to the 90s when one-dimensional players like Bryn were useful. :lol
:lol tbh

[Bynumite]

Of course these fuckers would ruin my bet :lol

See, i told you so before you decided to get all emotional about it. Even though i didn't put money on it, this game was a certified Spurs W for the reasons i stated in my original post.

I had the mavs and the cavs covering, so i got paid anyway. Bet with your head, not with your feelings. Better luck next time, son :tu

[RD2191]

Damn, seeds 4-8 all tied at 4-4 out West.

[Spur|n|Austin]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large

:lol take it easy ole boy!

[FkLA]

https://twitter.com/tom_orsborn/status/1347418687830167552?s=19

Didn't he call them soft like three days ago? :lol

[Mugen]

See, i told you so before you decided to get all emotional about it. Even though i didn't put money on it, this game was a certified Spurs W for the reasons i stated in my original post.

I had the mavs and the cavs covering, so i got paid anyway. Bet with your head, not with your feelings. Better luck next time, son :tu

Nobody cares, fatboy. Move along :lol

[RC_Drunkford]

One reason why when people were saying Anthony Davis has been a better PF than Timmy, I said he's not even better than Aldridge in his career.

Facts. LA has cooked him often, even outscored him tonight again.

[Uriel]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large
Pop desperately needs a haircut.

[Bynumite]

Nobody cares, fatboy. Move along :lol

You're in your feelings. Which is counter-productive. Smarten up, son.

[RC_Drunkford]

See, i told you so before you decided to get all emotional about it. Even though i didn't put money on it, this game was a certified Spurs W for the reasons i stated in my original post.

I had the mavs and the cavs covering, so i got paid anyway. Bet with your head, not with your feelings. Better luck next time, son :tu

of course the Spurs win with Aldridge playing. He’s put AD in a blender for years. We would’ve sweeped the series if he had played in all 3 games. Fuck the Lakers

[lefty20]

Didn't he call them soft like three days ago? :lol

In the head, not in the heart.

[daslicer]

Facts. LA has cooked him often, even outscored him tonight again.

Agreed. LMA struggled last year against the Lakers but I felt that was due to AD getting help from Dwight/McGee. If anything this game shows the Lakers are going to miss Dwight/Mcgee's rim protection if they play the Nuggets again. That's if the nuggets get it together.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/melissarohlin/status/1347421347035500546?s=19

[John B]

I don't know how Spurs won this. Lakers won every stat, except 3pts 16/35 vs 10/30

[ace3g]

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

[RC_Drunkford]

Agreed. LMA struggled last year against the Lakers but I felt that was due to AD getting help from Dwight/McGee. If anything this game shows the Lakers are going to miss Dwight/Mcgee's rim protection if they play the Nuggets again. That's if the nuggets get it together.

I think the Nuggets losing Grant was huge

[r0drig0lac]

In the head, not in the heart.

lol

[lefty]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErL3tuZW4AMsYrp?format=jpg&name=large
:lmao

[NASpurs]

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

Good to see Pop give a shit again and he needs a guitar photoshopped a la Eddie Van Halen.

[RC_Drunkford]

https://twitter.com/melissarohlin/status/1347421347035500546?s=19

got sonned by LaMarcus once again


https://youtu.be/rKgrloOphHo

[daslicer]

I think the Nuggets losing Grant was huge

Agreed that was huge loss. I think the Lakers biggest weakness from what I have seen from them in the 3 games against the Spurs is their rim protection is not good like it was with Dwight/McGee/AD last year. Now AD is the only legit guy who can protect the rim which weakens them. If one of the contending teams takes advantage of this I think the Lakers will be in trouble.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/RealTomPetrini/status/1347423996875309059?s=19

Lmfao

[Kurik]

I don't know how Spurs won this. Lakers won every stat, except 3pts 16/35 vs 10/30

6 turnovers versus 13

[RC_Drunkford]

Agreed that was huge loss. I think the Lakers biggest weakness from what I have seen from them in the 3 games against the Spurs is their rim protection is not good like it was with Dwight/McGee/AD last year. Now AD is the only legit guy who can protect the rim which weakens them. If one of the contending teams takes advantage of this I think the Lakers will be in trouble.

Yeah they basically traded defense for offense. On paper they look better than last year, but I actually think they are a little weaker

[Mr. Body]

6 turnovers versus 13

Six turnovers. That's fucking great.

[John B]

6 turnovers versus 13
Yes that's our defense. But I think the more significant stat is the 3pts. Spurs needs to attempt that much, and hit them.
It also makes a big difference that Demar is just letting it fly. The ball just moves.

[daslicer]

Yeah they basically traded defense for offense. On paper they look better than last year, but I actually think they are a little weaker

Agreed. I think they will also miss what Rondo gave them. He was good defender and play maker. Schroeder is a better scorer than Rondo but lacks the other 2 things Rondo provided. They also don't have a good perimeter defender outside of KCP. With that being said they could still win it all but I think it will be a lot harder for them.

[murpjf88]

I don't know how Spurs won this. Lakers won every stat, except 3pts 16/35 vs 10/30
You answered your own question.

[BillMc]

Pop desperately needs a haircut.

Can't tell if Pop looks like George Carlin or Immortan Joe

[spurs1990]

got sonned by LaMarcus once again


https://youtu.be/rKgrloOphHo

I think we all owe the L-Train LaMarcus Aldridge some much needed appreciation for this effort. Against the best team with the best player at his position.

Great game L-Train

[Degoat]

Man I hope DWhite can get better soon, and for pop to continue to play the right rotations lol

[ismael-robert]

We pull off NO 3pt game n last LA game n we're in first... or take away injuries from lma n white n we're in first

[BillMc]

LMA when healthy (and motivated) is still the best player on the team. He's the second best PF we've ever had, best FA we ever signed, will be in the HOF, and if Kawhi didn't get ZaZa ed in 2017 or was such a diva/liar in 2018, LMA probably would have helped us to a title by now. LMA dragged us to the playoffs in 2018 and 19.

He can loaf, and he's got an ego, but our team's ceiling is so much higher when he's engaged and healthy.

[Dejounte]

LMA when healthy (and motivated) is still the best player on the team. He's the second best PF we've ever had, best FA we ever signed, will be in the HOF, and if Kawhi didn't get ZaZa ed in 2017 or was such a diva/liar in 2018, LMA probably would have helped us to a title by now. LMA dragged us to the playoffs in 2018 and 19.

He can loaf, and he's got an ego, but our team's ceiling is so much higher when he's engaged and healthy.

I like what he brought tonight. Let's not get carried away and start thinking he can sustain this past this season or next. We have to start thinking about his replacement very soon and Poetl is so far failing miserably.

Or if Aldridge is here to stay as a key cog role player at 5, then DeMar has to go and we have to bring in a 4 of the future while shifting everybody's position down (namely Keldon to SF).

My prediction has always been only one of LMA and DeMar will be re-signed (to a lower contract, hopefully)

I guess it's easier to bring back LMA given his age. He would be more willing to take a smaller size contract.

Praying for DeMar for Siakam trade...

[Dejounte]

I'm also really confused why Marc Gasol only plays 13 minutes at a time...

We started the game with LMA on Davis, Keldon on LeBron, and DeMar on Marc. You would think we would get destroyed by the Gasol matchup, but no...

[daslicer]

I'm also really confused why Marc Gasol only plays 13 minutes at a time...

He’s old and slow.

[weeks]

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

holy shit this is a great shot ! exploitable as fuck, some photoshop whiz kid get on this stat

[ElNono]

why are we still trying to win games?

[alfahdlan]

..but spurstalk said Murray would be playing in the cba after his contract
:lmao:lmao

[hombre]

Pop desperately needs a haircut.

Nah, just a better conditioner.

[XDT76]

I'm also really confused why Marc Gasol only plays 13 minutes at a time...

We started the game with LMA on Davis, Keldon on LeBron, and DeMar on Marc. You would think we would get destroyed by the Gasol matchup, but no...

Because he cannot score or rebound when Mills is guarding him. lol

[ragas]

Good to see Pop give a shit again and he needs a guitar photoshopped a la Eddie Van Halen.

https://twitter.com/Ragass/status/1347541359901728776

[GreekSpursfan]

I don't mind beating these motherfs even if we should be tanking. Of course there's always a chance going on a bubble-esque run even if its fools gold. :flag:

[NASpurs]

https://twitter.com/Ragass/status/1347541359901728776

:lol I love it, thanks for the ‘shop

[Sugus]

I like what he brought tonight. Let's not get carried away and start thinking he can sustain this past this season or next. We have to start thinking about his replacement very soon and Poetl is so far failing miserably.

Or if Aldridge is here to stay as a key cog role player at 5, then DeMar has to go and we have to bring in a 4 of the future while shifting everybody's position down (namely Keldon to SF).

My prediction has always been only one of LMA and DeMar will be re-signed (to a lower contract, hopefully)

I guess it's easier to bring back LMA given his age. He would be more willing to take a smaller size contract.

Praying for DeMar for Siakam trade...

If the Spurs keep playing like they are (realistically unlikely, but I would've said it was unlikely to be playing this good before the season started, so...), I can absolutely see DeMar at the least being re-signed. Hopefully for a lower amount, but more years, which would make the contract more tradeable down the line... I still would rather not do it, but it makes too much sense, especially for a FO that values continuity and internal growth like the Spurs do.

Poeltl is absolutely not an answer long-term for starting 5. That much has been made clear. I do wonder whether we could just nab a FA 5 that would fill the hole, instead of having to go through the process of drafting and developing one out of nothing... No team in the league gets to championship contention by drafting and developing the entirety of their roster, and the Spurs have more than made up for the draftee part of it with their guards. A timely FA splash could be all that's separating us from serious threat status.... I'd love to see a list of available FA bigs for next year.

A Siakam trade is a big, big pipeline, my guy. He bounced back last game for Toronto, if I'm not mistaken, had 30 points despite a loss. The Raps are in an awkward position right now, but I can't see them shipping out their #1 player, unless it's a Kawhi-esque package being sent their way. It's the same as Draymond..... both REALLY good trades from the Spurs side, but don't make a lot of sense the other way around. At least for Green, you can say he's paid too much for the Warriors' payroll, but the Raptors aren't in that position with Siakam. Just my view on it.

[Dejounte]

If the Spurs keep playing like they are (realistically unlikely, but I would've said it was unlikely to be playing this good before the season started, so...), I can absolutely see DeMar at the least being re-signed. Hopefully for a lower amount, but more years, which would make the contract more tradeable down the line... I still would rather not do it, but it makes too much sense, especially for a FO that values continuity and internal growth like the Spurs do.

Poeltl is absolutely not an answer long-term for starting 5. That much has been made clear. I do wonder whether we could just nab a FA 5 that would fill the hole, instead of having to go through the process of drafting and developing one out of nothing... No team in the league gets to championship contention by drafting and developing the entirety of their roster, and the Spurs have more than made up for the draftee part of it with their guards. A timely FA splash could be all that's separating us from serious threat status.... I'd love to see a list of available FA bigs for next year.

A Siakam trade is a big, big pipeline, my guy. He bounced back last game for Toronto, if I'm not mistaken, had 30 points despite a loss. The Raps are in an awkward position right now, but I can't see them shipping out their #1 player, unless it's a Kawhi-esque package being sent their way. It's the same as Draymond..... both REALLY good trades from the Spurs side, but don't make a lot of sense the other way around. At least for Green, you can say he's paid too much for the Warriors' payroll, but the Raptors aren't in that position with Siakam. Just my view on it.

"John Collins, the fourth-year big man who just weeks before bet on himself in a big way during his failed extension talks with the Hawks, shared his unfiltered and unhappy views about the way franchise centerpiece Trae Young was running the offense. According to three sources who were either in the session or had knowledge of what was said, Collins raised several issues about the way these Hawks were functioning with Young at the helm.

Collins talked about the need to get into offensive sets more quickly and to limit all those early shot-clock attempts that leave his teammates on the outside looking in. He shared his desire to be more involved and expressed a desire for more ball involvement and flow on offense.

There was no back-and-forth between the two, but the pointed criticism caught the attention of the room. And Young, sources say, made it clear to others later that he strongly disagreed with Collins’ assessment.

“Trae is my brother regardless,” Collins, who chose not to elaborate further, told The Athletic via text message when he was asked about the situation."

https://theathletic.com/2307304/2021/01/08/atlanta-hawks-john-collins-trae-young?source=user-shared-article

Not a huge fan of Collins, but if he is the LMA replacement at 5 where we have seen being a stretch 5 brings positive value to this team... then there's your free agent splash. I simply don't see JC being the answer defensively and would probably be demolished by quick forwards.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/Ragass/status/1347541359901728776

https://twitter.com/hookem_IImII/status/1347596453083033600

[ismael-robert]

why are we still trying to win games?

Because we've proven we can beat the best and if we play like this for 4 out of 7 games we are a legitimate contender...again all without White so with him sky's the limit

[ace3g]

Found HQ version of each photo

https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/PQMGX2WNFZETVICETQR2LJTUKU.jpg

https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gmg/RYSX2HZT2NAGBIKTYEHK3EQPYU.jpg

[Sugus]

"John Collins, the fourth-year big man who just weeks before bet on himself in a big way during his failed extension talks with the Hawks, shared his unfiltered and unhappy views about the way franchise centerpiece Trae Young was running the offense. According to three sources who were either in the session or had knowledge of what was said, Collins raised several issues about the way these Hawks were functioning with Young at the helm.

Collins talked about the need to get into offensive sets more quickly and to limit all those early shot-clock attempts that leave his teammates on the outside looking in. He shared his desire to be more involved and expressed a desire for more ball involvement and flow on offense.

There was no back-and-forth between the two, but the pointed criticism caught the attention of the room. And Young, sources say, made it clear to others later that he strongly disagreed with Collins’ assessment.

“Trae is my brother regardless,” Collins, who chose not to elaborate further, told The Athletic via text message when he was asked about the situation."

https://theathletic.com/2307304/2021/01/08/atlanta-hawks-john-collins-trae-young?source=user-shared-article

Not a huge fan of Collins, but if he is the LMA replacement at 5 where we have seen being a stretch 5 brings positive value to this team... then there's your free agent splash. I simply don't see JC being the answer defensively and would probably be demolished by quick forwards.

Yeah, I was reading about this earlier. Interesting stuff seeing the friction in the Hawks team, since Trae is very unlikely to stop doing his thing on offense, and the FO is most certainly committed to building around his talents. I don't see Collins being a pipedream at all - it'll be a matter of whether the Spurs can pry him away from Atlanta, or rather, whether ATL would rather lose him than max him.

The other FA I'm interested in is Jarret Allen. I think he'd be a great fit on our team, provides much needed verticality, rim protection, and offense from the big man position, and from what I've seen, the Nets would have a hard time keeping him considering the rest of the salaries on their team. I haven't looked too deep into the hypothetical finances, but if the Spurs could nab one (or both!) of Collins or Allen, I'd be pretty ecstatic, tbh.

[Mr. Body]

Yeah, I was reading about this earlier. Interesting stuff seeing the friction in the Hawks team, since Trae is very unlikely to stop doing his thing on offense, and the FO is most certainly committed to building around his talents. I don't see Collins being a pipedream at all - it'll be a matter of whether the Spurs can pry him away from Atlanta, or rather, whether ATL would rather lose him than max him.

The other FA I'm interested in is Jarret Allen. I think he'd be a great fit on our team, provides much needed verticality, rim protection, and offense from the big man position, and from what I've seen, the Nets would have a hard time keeping him considering the rest of the salaries on their team. I haven't looked too deep into the hypothetical finances, but if the Spurs could nab one (or both!) of Collins or Allen, I'd be pretty ecstatic, tbh.

Jarrett Allen's been my guy; I watch a lot of Nets games. I don't think there's a chance in hell we can get him.

[TimDunkem]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErPKigoXcAoOBu2?format=jpg&name=small

[Dex]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ErPKigoXcAoOBu2?format=jpg&name=small

To be fair...without a real "home court advantage", the Lakers could realistically finish anywhere between 1st and 7th and still be considered the favorite.

The play-in tournament would be the only reason why 8th doesn't fit the category.

Either way, I appreciate getting a win out of them after that 4-game losing skid.

[Chinook]

To be fair...without a real "home court advantage", the Lakers could realistically finish anywhere between 1st and 7th and still be considered the favorite.

The play-in tournament would be the only reason why 8th doesn't fit the category.

Either way, I appreciate getting a win out of them after that 4-game losing skid.

Isn't the tournament 7-10? I thought 7 played 8 and 9 played 10, and the winner of the former game made the playoffs and the loser played the winner of the second game for the final spot.

[Dex]

Isn't the tournament 7-10? I thought 7 played 8 and 9 played 10, and the winner of the former game made the playoffs and the loser played the winner of the second game for the final spot.

Looks like you are right: https://theathletic.com/news/nba-to-have-play-in-tournament-in-2020-21-season/6IhitxwYMelF

I thought they were following the same format they did in the bubble...but now it looks like both the 7th and 8th seed have to play their way into the playoffs (as if the regular season wasn't doing that).

Not sure how I feel about that, tbh.

[daslicer]

Looks like you are right: https://theathletic.com/news/nba-to-have-play-in-tournament-in-2020-21-season/6IhitxwYMelF

I thought they were following the same format they did in the bubble...but now it looks like both the 7th and 8th seed have to play their way into the playoffs (as if the regular season wasn't doing that).

Not sure how I feel about that, tbh.

Not a fan of the play in format. I think it's pretty stupid.

[Dex]

Not a fan of the play in format. I think it's pretty stupid.

It made sense for the bubble when the season was suddenly cut short....but now it just feels like a money grab by the NBA.

This is a 72 game season. We've seen shorter seasons before without the need for a play-in tournament. I would be pissed if I was a 7-seed who spent all season earning that spot just to lose it by playing two bad games.

[r0drig0lac]

Jarrett Allen's been my guy; I watch a lot of Nets games. I don't think there's a chance in hell we can get him.
my list would be
1- Randle
2- Collins
3- Allen
4- Jerami Grant after his offensive unlock season

[Dejounte]

Neither Randle nor Jerami are attainable in free agency, they will still be under contract. Doubt they'll let them go via trade.

[Ice009]

Not a fan of the play in format. I think it's pretty stupid.

That sounds terrible. What the hell. Why is there a play-in format if the season isn't cut short. If you bust your ass all season and finish 7th or 8th, why should you lose that spot if you have a bad game or two. This is a messed up money grab by the NBA.

[Sugus]

Jarrett Allen's been my guy; I watch a lot of Nets games. I don't think there's a chance in hell we can get him.

Do you know what his contract situation is? Last I heard, there were some issues between him and the Nets over role/playing time, and also the fact that they have two max players in Irving and Durant. Can't make signing high end role players like Allen easy, but I really haven't looked too far into it.

[Dejounte]

Do you know what his contract situation is? Last I heard, there were some issues between him and the Nets over role/playing time, and also the fact that they have two max players in Irving and Durant. Can't make signing high end role players like Allen easy, but I really haven't looked too far into it.

Word on the nets subreddit is that he's seeking Capela money.

[Seventyniner]

It made sense for the bubble when the season was suddenly cut short....but now it just feels like a money grab by the NBA.

This is a 72 game season. We've seen shorter seasons before without the need for a play-in tournament. I would be pissed if I was a 7-seed who spent all season earning that spot just to lose it by playing two bad games.

Ding ding ding.

The same reason the NFL and MLB expanded their playoffs. More playoff teams means more teams have something to play for late in the season.

It's a disgrace that 2/3 of the teams in the league make the playoffs, but that's life. The owners don't care about tradition or fairness, only money.

[Dejounte]

Oh man, Jerami Grant looks legit as a 3.5. We need to find ourselves someone who will explode like that.

[NASpurs]

Oh man, Jerami Grant looks legit as a 3.5. We need to find ourselves someone who will explode like that.

Has a player ever improved that much in his 8th season? Disclaimer that it's only an 8 game sample size but he's gone from 12 PPG to 24 PPG one year to another.

[XDT76]

Has a player ever improved that much in his 8th season? Disclaimer that it's only an 8 game sample size but he's gone from 12 PPG to 24 PPG one year to another.

Granted it's his sixth year but the same thing happens to Woods

[Sugus]

Word on the nets subreddit is that he's seeking Capela money.

Would "Capela money" fit into the Nets' financial situation though? Or would it be another Collins case, where they hesitate to pay him because of finances? I wouldn't mind paying him that money, tbh, I think Allen is easily better than Capela right now.

[Dejounte]

It made sense for the bubble when the season was suddenly cut short....but now it just feels like a money grab by the NBA.

This is a 72 game season. We've seen shorter seasons before without the need for a play-in tournament. I would be pissed if I was a 7-seed who spent all season earning that spot just to lose it by playing two bad games.

Does it still not make sense why there's a play-in tournament? Players are missing games left and right. The end of the season record is not going to be a fair indicator of how good or bad a team truly was.
daslicer (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=4950) Ice009 (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=1302)

[Ice009]

Does it still not make sense why there's a play-in tournament? Players are missing games left and right. The end of the season record is not going to be a fair indicator of how good or bad a team truly was.
daslicer (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=4950) Ice009 (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=1302)

Alright, you have a fair point. I didn't take any of that stuff into consideration.

[daslicer]

Does it still not make sense why there's a play-in tournament? Players are missing games left and right. The end of the season record is not going to be a fair indicator of how good or bad a team truly was.
daslicer (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=4950) Ice009 (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=1302)

After seeing what happened to the Sixers I can see why they still have the play in game. Still my wish is after the Covid situation is under control that they get rid of this play in game whether that's a year from now or a few years from now.