Lonnie Walker extension watch

[John B]

I want Lonnie back as long as other team would not overvalue him, which I fear some would.

[KingKev]

I want Lonnie back as long as other team would not overvalue him, which I fear some would.

The only ones over valuing our youth, especially Walker are on this forum.

[Dejounte]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvgFeujnakM&ab_channel=SpursTubeTv

Whoever did that is really damn good at reading lips

[exstatic]

Lonnie is in the way of both Devin and Primo for next year. If they can get something, they should flip him at the deadline.

[Seventyniner]

Last night I saw Walker yet again iso around the 3-point line break, take a few steps in while doing some fancy dribbles, then pull up for an 18-footer with 16 seconds left on the shot clock. I fucking HATE when players do this, especially bench players like Walker. Murray does it too and I wish he would stop. Those are absolutely terrible shots.

In addition to the bonehead steps on the sideline, Walker shot the ball with 5 seconds left in the third and the shot clock off. Maddening. Zero game situation awareness.

[Dverde]

Lonnie needs to go overseas. He could be the next Marbury in China. He’ll never be a star here.

[RC_Drunkford]

Spurs either have to resign him or trade him at the deadline. Letting him walk for nothing can‘t happen

[KingKev]

Spurs either have to resign him or trade him at the deadline. Letting him walk for nothing can‘t happen

Why not? He hasn’t shown much over a pretty large sample. He isn’t worth anything in a trade, especially on an expiring deal. Most teams interested will be able to sign him this offseason as I doubt he commands more than the MLE.

[exstatic]

Spurs either have to resign him or trade him at the deadline. Letting him walk for nothing can‘t happen

Sure they can. They just cut Samanic, and he was picked in the same range. Releasing him may provide the caproom to rent some to PHO to offload Saric and a pick, and sign a couple of other players. If no one is interested in trading for him at $4.5M + Bird rights, there will be zero interest at a higher figure.

[RC_Drunkford]

If they let him walk they should flip him. The Spurs have plenty of cap room in a shitty free agency class. Waiving Walker‘s cap room won‘t do anything for them. They don’t have to let him walk to do the Saric deal

[Dejounte]

Lonnie is here to stay?

Lonnie Walker IV just bought this $544,500 four-bedroom home near La Cantera, according to Bexar County property. The two-story, 2,700-square-foot property includes a custom pool, an expansive kitchen and views of lush hillside greenery. Its estimated value is more than double the Alamo City's median home price of $269,724.

[JuneJive]

They will definetly extend him.

Just a feeling. I think he is deeply ingrained 'culture' wise.

[exstatic]

Lonnie is in the way of Primo and Devin. Although he jumps really high, he’s pretty mediocre at basketball.

BTW, his cap hold is 11.3M if we tender him. He can accept it, screw our cap, and that is treated as a one year contract, so we can’t trade him unless he consents.

If we can’t trade him at $4.5M + Bird rights, he’s untradeable.

[Dejounte]

He doesn’t have to be in the way. He can accept a lower salary, probably one that’s way less than people expect, and keep a role similar to Forbes. The third wing off the bench. Plus, he owns a $500k home now. I think the Spurs org probably gave him a ball park number for his contract and he thought that out and bought a cheaper home because he sees himself as a long term Spur. Right next to the new practice facility, too. Not a coincidence, IMO.

[scott]

I wouldn't read too much into the home purchase. It's not like he bought George Strait's mansion and will take 7 years to sell it. That price range in that area it is easy to flip a house quickly. Guy needed somewhere to live, and probably thought that house met his lifestyle for now.

With that said, even knowing all of Lonnie's flaws... I just like something about him and want him to succeed with us... even if I know it probably won't happen.

[Slippy]

Thought he had turned a corner . Disappointingly since coming back from covid we've mainly seen passive Lonnie again. The last few games iv noticed the spurs actively run plays for him to attack the empty keyway when a big gets on him after a PnR switch or when he gets a step on his man . Most times he's either settled for a jumper or passed it out to someone with lesser driving ability. Not what spurs are chasing and terrible decision making on his part

Keeping expectations low but what we saw in his play leading upto covid - he was showing some real progress. Seems same old lonnie unfortunately.

[Degoat]

I hope we keep Lonnie here long term, it’s sucks but I’ve adjusted my expectations for him and now that they’re lower he doesn’t piss me off as much and surprises me at times lol

[lmbebo]

Lonnie is here to stay?

Lonnie Walker IV just bought this $544,500 four-bedroom home near La Cantera, according to Bexar County property. The two-story, 2,700-square-foot property includes a custom pool, an expansive kitchen and views of lush hillside greenery. Its estimated value is more than double the Alamo City's median home price of $269,724.

He can sell that. Rudy Gay used to live around the corner from me. His home sat on the market for awhile though, but sold. Think he moved to somewhere in the Shavano Park area after that.

[RC_Drunkford]

Spurs can just extend him and flip him later to free up minutes for Primo

[The Truth #6]

Lonnie is here to stay?

Lonnie Walker IV just bought this $544,500 four-bedroom home near La Cantera, according to Bexar County property. The two-story, 2,700-square-foot property includes a custom pool, an expansive kitchen and views of lush hillside greenery. Its estimated value is more than double the Alamo City's median home price of $269,724.

That number actually sounds low for homes on the North Side, especially in that area. May be an investment or so he can retire here later and not pay state income taxes. For me, it's hard to definitely read intent, but yeah, it makes you wonder.

[TD 21]

Why not? He hasn’t shown much over a pretty large sample. He isn’t worth anything in a trade, especially on an expiring deal. Most teams interested will be able to sign him this offseason as I doubt he commands more than the MLE.

MLE?! :lmao He's a replacement player. If Monk is going to inexplicably go for the minimum, I don't know why he wouldn't.

[couchman]

Seems like a good guy and if he is willing to sign an appropriate deal he's an okay guy to have deep on the bench but I'm not holding my breath.
My concern is that his biggest hurdles to being a genuinely good player are all mental and I haven't seen signs that the light will ever come on for him.

[Spursfanfromafar]

Lonnie is a good candidate to be traded along with Thaddeus Young if the Spurs can find a good partner and some prospects in return.

[KingKev]

MLE?! :lmao He's a replacement player. If Monk is going to inexplicably go for the minimum, I don't know why he wouldn't.

I’m not arguing his value in the MLE just that most teams can offer him up to that in FA so there is no need to trade for him. I don’t think he gets more than 5/yr.

[KingKev]

Lonnie is a good candidate to be traded along with Thaddeus Young if the Spurs can find a good partner and some prospects in return.

No one is giving up any value for Walker. He can easily be had in free agency.

[exstatic]

No one is giving up any value for Walker. He can easily be had in free agency.

You get an advantage by obtaining his Bird rights. He’d also be a restricted FA to a team that trades for him, if they tender the QO.

[KingKev]

You get an advantage by obtaining his Bird rights. He’d also be a restricted FA to a team that trades for him, if they tender the QO.

These would be important factors for a better player.

[exstatic]

These would be important factors for a better player.

A player doesn’t have one value. Each team could value him differently. He would be more valuable to a team with less structure.

[John B]

That number actually sounds low for homes on the North Side, especially in that area. May be an investment or so he can retire here later and not pay state income taxes. For me, it's hard to definitely read intent, but yeah, it makes you wonder.

Man that’s 2 bedroom and 1 bathroom in a questionable area here in Los Angeles

I like Lonnie. He’s a good kid, great character and never complain. I’m still rooting for him to make it with the Spurs

[TD 21]

I’m not arguing his value in the MLE just that most teams can offer him up to that in FA so there is no need to trade for him. I don’t think he gets more than 5/yr.

Even $5M is astronomical. Most of this board doesn't seem to realize how bad he is. He is a fringe NBA player without a single bankable skill. There's no reason he should exceed the minimum or at least close to it.

[Drom John]

Five Thirty Eight Raptor, WAR, 1 minute or more.

336) 0.0 Lonnie Walker, with 83 other players, including Tyler Johnson, Anthony Lamb and Joe Weiskamp.

0.0 is the definition of a replacement player.

NBA 2021-2022 salaries
336) $1,846,738 Shake Milton
420) $1,669,178 Rodney McGruder.

[John B]

Man I like Walker, he’s a good character, great kid but he has to put it together or he’s gonna be gone. Already he’s way behind 2nd year player Devin (who happens to be my favorite player among this group, just a smooth player and potentially great defensive player). I was watching Lonnie last night. He just deferred too much. I mean I guess he didn’t force it and let the game come to him and not get in the way of Murray and co. But there are 2-3 times he could’ve taken the shot imo. Unlike Samanic, who I rooted for his athleticism and need, Lonnie is a good kid, in the community goes out there. And he’s so talented but his BBIQ is suspect

[KingKev]

Man I like Walker, he’s a good character, great kid but he has to put it together or he’s gonna be gone. Already he’s way behind 2nd year player Devin (who happens to be my favorite player among this group, just a smooth player and potentially great defensive player). I was watching Lonnie last night. He just deferred too much. I mean I guess he didn’t force it and let the game come to him and not get in the way of Murray and co. But there are 2-3 times he could’ve taken the shot imo. Unlike Samanic, who I rooted for his athleticism and need, Lonnie is a good kid, in the community goes out there. And he’s so talented but his BBIQ is suspect

He will still be a great guy somewhere else.

[John B]

He will still be a great guy somewhere else.

If he continues, he could be out of the league playing in god knows where, one of those “he could’ve been great but..”

[RC_Drunkford]

The worst thing about Lonnie is that he‘s the exact same player he was last year, averaging the same statline with worse shooting numbers

[4lifecowboy]

He just bought a house here, he probably got some sort of assurance he was gonna be here.

[exstatic]

He just bought a house here, he probably got some sort of assurance he was gonna be here.

That’s not how real life works.

[KingKev]

Part of me feels like we might attempt to bring him back on something like 2yr/10mm as a deep bench player.

[The Truth #6]

Sad to see his lack of development. Seems like an awesome dude. His best bet may be to get traded immediately so some other team can do invest some interest in him, but that seems unlikely.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

If Orlando trade Terrence Ross , they might be interested in Lonnie and a second or two for Chuma Okeke type of deal. Both players haven't been good but it balances the rosters a little. If Jonathan Isaac is indeed alive, that is.

[KingKev]

If Orlando trade Terrence Ross , they might be interested in Lonnie and a second or two for Chuma Okeke type of deal. Both players haven't been good but it balances the rosters a little. If Jonathan Isaac is indeed alive, that is.

Pass on Okeke he’s basically a worse Keldon Johnson - similar 6’6, 220lb frame with less game. Our two 2022 SRPs are looking like 32 and ~45 plus Walker/Juancho could be a lowball starting point for Mo Bamba.

At this point Orlando probably wants far out picks I suspect. They have a decent chest of incoming draft capital, both first and second round and a roster full of high upside youth.

[KingKev]

Part of me feels like we might attempt to bring him back on something like 2yr/10mm as a deep bench player.

Some other details to consider:
- QO is ~6mm
- Cap Hold is ~13mm

Considering the above my conclusion is that unless he really shows out to finish the year (his trajectory is the opposite) Walker is going to be an UFA this summer. He could be a useful contract to help facilitate trades at the deadline however and that could get us an SRP.

[emanueldavidginobili]

Lonnie’s last 3 games 5, 3, 4 lmao.

[KingKev]

Lonnie’s last 3 games 5, 3, 4 lmao.

Feels like he has thrown in the towel. I think reality has set in it’s a tough road ahead for him here.

[Dejounte]

He was trending up for a stretch but now he’s reverting back to his low IQ, invisible for long periods ways.

[CGD]

Feels like he has thrown in the towel. I think reality has set in it’s a tough road ahead for him here.

It does feel that consequently he is moving deeper down in the rotation order in recent games as well. Meanwhile players like Devin and Primo are playing with the confidence he lacks when they get their chances, which doesn’t help his cause.

[KingKev]

This is an important part of rebuilding for us: giving guys an extended leash and opportunity to see what we have. Hopefully you can get something in return for the guys your cross off. Won’t be the case for Walker but atleast we gave him an opportunity to prove his worth. I’d like to see more Primo and Vassell exclusively at the 2 with only spot minutes at the 3 in the coming years.

[R. DeMurre]

Pass on Okeke he’s basically a worse Keldon Johnson - similar 6’6, 220lb frame with less game. Our two 2022 SRPs are looking like 32 and ~45 plus Walker/Juancho could be a lowball starting point for Mo Bamba.

At this point Orlando probably wants far out picks I suspect. They have a decent chest of incoming draft capital, both first and second round and a roster full of high upside youth.

Orlando's such an odd team. The possibility of pairing a healthy Jonathan Isaac with Franz Wagner looks very promising, but their future rotation of guards that aren't good 3pt shooters-- Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, Markelle Fultz-- looks like such an exercise in futility.

[KingKev]

Orlando's such an odd team. The possibility of pairing a healthy Jonathan Isaac with Franz Wagner looks very promising, but their future rotation of guards that aren't good 3pt shooters-- Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, Markelle Fultz-- looks like such an exercise in futility.

Issac, Wagner and Chet/Paolo/Jabari could be a pretty solid frontline, not to mention they have tons of draft capital and >30mm cap space this offseason. Terrible organization but even they should be able to put something together with that.

[Slippy]

Feels like he has thrown in the towel. I think reality has set in it’s a tough road ahead for him here.

It does seem like that.. with Bryn Dnps and rhen subsequent trade maybe he keeping one eye on trade market or simply Lonnie reverting back to usual self.

[John B]

Feels like he has thrown in the towel. I think reality has set in it’s a tough road ahead for him here.

Nah. I don’t think he's a quitter. He’s a survivor all his life. He is “too nice” to a fault. The win over OKC, he didn’t have to assert himself and get in the way of Murray and Co. He did have 2 steals and a block. I think Pop would say he had a good game despite scoring 5 points. But that attitude carries over to the next game when some of the guys were not playing as well. But he cannot just switch it on. Unlike Ginobili taking over despite coming from the bench, and ready to close the game. Lonnie, I don’t know if he’s capable of switching it on and off, or just be the #1 option all the time. Because when he is, he explodes to 25 or 21 like the win over Dubs. I’m sure you put him in GLeague, he would dominate. Playing along side Murray or Vassell, he defers. Pity because I really like the guy, and he maybe running out of time with trading deadline fast approaching. Or he could finally find himself in another team where he could finally be the guy.

[tbdog]

Vassell is getting more play calls than walker. Walkers shot is so bad right now, I don't blame pop not calling walker's number to get a basket. But then he struggles to make the right decisions when his number isn't called.

[Ditty]

Lonnie buying a house is definitely odd. I know he loves the city, so he could live here after his playing days are over or in the offseason. Imo Lonnie is the odd man out when it comes to guard rotation with White, DV, Murray and Primo. Primo is still another year from getting consistent minutes though. It’s going to be an interesting offseason.

[spurraider21]

Really frustrating player given the natural talent. They shouldn’t bring him back

[exstatic]

Vassell is getting more play calls than walker. Walkers shot is so bad right now, I don't blame pop not calling walker's number to get a basket. But then he struggles to make the right decisions when his number isn't called.

When Devin’s number is called, he accepts the challenge. When Lonnie’s is called, he often passes the ball right back to the PG. I’ve seen that dozens of times.

[John B]

When Devin’s number is called, he accepts the challenge. When Lonnie’s is called, he often passes the ball right back to the PG. I’ve seen that dozens of times.

Him rim running just to stop at the arch to pass, mind boggling.

[8sy21vd]

Immense physical talents hasn't translated to winning basketball plays unfortunately and he doesn't have a good feel for the game, although love his shooting form and brief flashes of elite play making. He'll find a home with a team hoping he puts it together on a cheap deal. Both sides benefit from moving on. Vassell has already surpassed him as a player and in the rotation, and Primo should be getting his 15-20 minutes next season.

His trade value is just his expiring deal at this point so I don't think SA could get anything unless they package him with Thad's expiring contract + picks. I wish the Spurs would do this to bolster their 4 position.

[Rocalcio]

I like this kid but I have the feeling last game against Houston showed that Pop has given up on him. He even took him out during the garbage time, and it made sense cause he was the worst spur on the floor. Such a waste of talent…

[KingKev]

I like this kid but I have the feeling last game against Houston showed that Pop has given up on him. He even took him out during the garbage time, and it made sense cause he was the worst spur on the floor. Such a waste of talent…

Time to move on. Something isn't clocking here and if I’m him I jump at another opportunity if it presents himself this summer. Someone will give him a look.

Next up D White

[stephen jackson]

Send him to Philly he’ll be good there, just sa isn’t the place for him unfortunately

[KingKev]

Send him to Philly he’ll be good there, just sa isn’t the place for him unfortunately

He has little to no trade value outside of being an expiring contract. Most teams that are interested can have him this summer as he won’t get more than part of the bi-annual exception to tax payer mid-level exception so basically <5mm.

[exstatic]

Send him to Philly he’ll be good there, just sa isn’t the place for him unfortunately

With Morey’s love of advanced stats, he wouldn’t touch him with the proverbial ten foot pole.

[PhantomDashCam]

Nothing of real substance here but he's on the list.

https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-exploring-the-market-beyond-ben-simmons-195420101.html


Other names to watch

Haven't gotten your fill of the trade rumor mill? Here are 10 more trade possibilities to consider:


The entire Portland Trail Blazers roster
Bojan Bogdanovic, Utah Jazz
Spencer Dinwiddie, Washington Wizards
Eric Gordon, Houston Rockets
Gordon Hayward, Charlotte Hornets
Al Horford, Boston Celtics
Lonnie Walker IV, San Antonio Spurs
Patrick Williams, Chicago Bulls
James Wiseman, Golden State Warriors
Christian Wood, Houston Rockets

[Seventyniner]

It makes sense. Lonnie clearly isn't in the team's medium-term plans but another team might be willing to take a flier and get his Bird rights to boot. I wouldn't expect major value for him, but his age and athletic profile make him a marginally positive asset imo. Maybe enough to sweeten a multi-player deal into happening.

[KingKev]

Nothing of real substance here but he's on the list.

https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-exploring-the-market-beyond-ben-simmons-195420101.html


Walker has 0 trade value. Less value than most NBA twitter pundits.

[tbdog]

What's up with his shot? It's flat and shooting percentage has tanked. His minutes are lower. His D is better but still average.

[tbdog]

I wonder if Spurs can get Patrick Williams because bulls are in win now mode.

[CGD]

I wonder if Spurs can get Patrick Williams because bulls are in win now mode.

Nah they really like him. The pundits seem to think that if he does get moved its to DET for Grant.

[BacktoBasics]

Nah they really like him. The pundits seem to think that if he does get moved its to DET for Grant.

In our wildest wet dream

[tbdog]

In our wildest wet dream

He is talking about Patrick Williams

[John B]

Lonnie would give it away on a TO then hit a big 3. I mean it’s Jekyll and Hyde the way he plays. I don’t think the game has slowed down on him yet. Because I think he coukd be a very special player, and he might be with another team.

[tbdog]

Lonnie would give it away on a TO then hit a big 3. I mean it’s Jekyll and Hyde the way he plays. I don’t think the game has slowed down on him yet. Because I think he coukd be a very special player, and he might be with another team.

Those TO were awful too. If he didn't hit those shots, he was getting benched. I like how he had turned into a dependable defender now. That's good. If he only kept his 3 point shooting up, he would have more minutes and more stats. But his shooting looks flatter.

[exstatic]

His body language is just awful.

I just don’t see a path where he even gets a QO, because giving one ($11+M) would be offering him an amount for 1 year that he should be offered for 4 years. He’d probably take it, and that would be a disaster.

[KingKev]

His body language is just awful.

I just don’t see a path where he even gets a QO, because giving one ($11+M) would be offering him an amount for 1 year that he should be offered for 4 years. He’d probably take it, and that would be a disaster.

His QO is 6mm. Cap hold is 13.4mm.

[exstatic]

His QO is 6mm. Cap hold is 13.4mm.

Dammit, I did it again…

[KingKev]

Dammit, I did it again…

Doesn’t change the logic. 2yrs/8m player option year 2 is my idea of his market value.

[DJR210]

So long Lonnie

[rjv]

Nothing of real substance here but he's on the list.

https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-exploring-the-market-beyond-ben-simmons-195420101.html

entire blazers roster...:lol

[rjv]

i can't say what's up with lonnie but with primo on the horizon, i just can't see lonnie getting another deal here. he just can't seem to stay focused and negates any of his positives with too many negatives. i want him to make it but i just don't see it happening at this point.

[PhantomDashCam]

i can't say what's up with lonnie but with primo on the horizon, i just can't see lonnie getting another deal here. he just can't seem to stay focused and negates any of his positives with too many negatives. i want him to make it but i just don't see it happening at this point.

Agreed. I really liked the way he was playing there for a couple of weeks pre-Covid and even a couple of games after he returned. He had sort of become this unconscious gun slinger (a poor man’s Jordan Clarkson) who would check into games and gets shots up, infuse it with energy etc.
Forbes was then traded and I thought the Spurs feel comfortable here letting Walker for seemingly the first time, have a dedicated, unflinching role in this team’s construction.
Now that’s looking like more to do with giving Vassell extra opportunities and bringing Primo over when the G league season completes.

I wish Lonnie well. I’m sure he can put up numbers in a headless chook system akin to what they’re doing in Houston but here he’s just too damn inconsistent and at times passive to warrant those looks here.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

He's another guy who will be better once he gets out from under Pop.

Really hope they don't extend him or give him a QO - that would be another financial mistake.

[Kevin]

i can't say what's up with lonnie but with primo on the horizon, i just can't see lonnie getting another deal here. he just can't seem to stay focused and negates any of his positives with too many negatives. i want him to make it but i just don't see it happening at this point.

Lonnie averages 22 minutes a game this season. Primo should be ready for that kind of work load next season.

[John B]

The skills are there and it’s just a matter of slowing down the game for him. He could be better in another team but I sure hope it could be with the Spurs

[james evans]

Lonnie averages 22 minutes a game this season. Primo should be ready for that kind of work load next season.
Primo wont play 22 minutes a game until he's old enough to drink. That's if popovich is still coaching.

[exstatic]

Primo wont play 22 minutes a game until he's old enough to drink. That's if popovich is still coaching.

Prepare the fainting couch. Vassell is playing 25 minutes in his second year. Dejounte played 21.5 his second year, and he didn’t even have a jump shot. Keldon played 28.5 in his second year. They were all young draftees. They all played in their second year, rotation minutes. It’s almost like you’re not paying attention.

[emanueldavidginobili]

This kid is shooting 38% from the floor and 29% from three on the season :spin

Last 10 32% from the floor and 20% from three. The only thing he has going for him is that he turned 23 years old a month ago. it's all a mind game with this kid unfortunately, he's playing like he's at rock bottom right now. Change of scenery and a fresh start is the only thing I can see that can potentially save his career.

[emanueldavidginobili]

11 minutes tonight, looks like he is on his way out of the rotation? unless it was injury related but I haven't heard anything.

[slick'81]

Spurs knew what they were doing by not extending lw4

[Dejounte]

Bye bye Lonnie

[BatManu20]

He gone.

[CGD]

Primo’s is eating his lunch

[RC_Drunkford]

Primo is about to take all of his minutes. Still can't understand how he got worse in his 4th year. His jumpshot is basically what it was in college again

[SpurSpike]

Lonnie might not have the all star ceiling we had hoped but I still want to keep him. He adds a different style when you play through him and can still be a good scorer off the bench. That's not a bad thing either, you need guys like that.

[Slippy]

Unless its health related Joshua is ahead of him in the rotation.

If on the team once trade deadline finishes then he has to make the most of his opportunity even if limited now playing behind Josh and Devin.

His defense has been much better this season, his ofense has become too inconsistent .

[ismael-robert]

If a one year deal allowed give him that. He's starting to turn corner. Another off season n he may put it all together

[GAustex]

Was not there mention of a sore knee.
But he sure did not offer anything vs Cavs

[exstatic]

If a one year deal allowed give him that. He's starting to turn corner. Another off season n he may put it all together

Turn the corner? His jump shot is fucking trash. Up until a month ago, I would have entertained keeping him on a Forbes like deal, but he’d just be in Primo’s way.

[Roscoe P. Coltrane]

Primo is about to take all of his minutes. Still can't understand how he got worse in his 4th year. His jumpshot is basically what it was in college again

I told you that guy was hot garbage his rookie season. And you thought he was better than Derozan.������

[poopbox]

Primo is about to take all of his minutes. Still can't understand how he got worse in his 4th year. His jumpshot is basically what it was in college again

Pop ruined him in that clippers game where he took Lonnie out cause he wasn't guarding Kawhi the way Pop wanted him to. He undressed Lonnie in the post game. Lonnie hasn't been the same since. Wouldn't surprise me to watch him go somewhere else and have a Jordan Clarkson Utah type career cause he most definitely has a ton of talent and athleticism. Pop only knows how to reach a certain type of player and Lonnie doesn't fit that psychological mold.

[The Truth #6]

Pop didn’t break him. He just didn’t fix him.

[John B]

With all his physical talent, Lonnie's bball IQ is not that great. You can tell by just how Zollins is already smoothly acclimated with spacing and ball movement.
Lonnie, he's still going 100mph out there.

[timtonymanu]

Was rooting for the guy but he looks like another Jonathon Simmons.

[BatManu20]

Yea it’s too bad cause he’s a likable kid with a ton of talent and physical ability that you simply can’t teach. Could’ve been a huge steal for us given where he was selected. But he just doesn’t seem to have it between the ears. I’d be surprised if he’s back at the point. Primo’s our future SG.

But who knows, Lonnie just turned 23 though so wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up being a late bloomer and experiences success elsewhere in a couple years.

[RC_Drunkford]

Pop ruined him in that clippers game where he took Lonnie out cause he wasn't guarding Kawhi the way Pop wanted him to. He undressed Lonnie in the post game. Lonnie hasn't been the same since. Wouldn't surprise me to watch him go somewhere else and have a Jordan Clarkson Utah type career cause he most definitely has a ton of talent and athleticism. Pop only knows how to reach a certain type of player and Lonnie doesn't fit that psychological mold.

no lie, I always think about that game when Lonnie is fuckin up

[BatManu20]

Just posted to his IG.


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FLNcfYDWQAE6H--?format=jpg&name=large

[LeBowen]

Well, it certainly was brick by brick in his case.

[jermaine]

Just posted to his IG.


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FLNcfYDWQAE6H--?format=jpg&name=large

These niccas be having Heavenly quotes on their way out the door.

[KingKev]

Slowly playing his way to that QO

[The Truth #6]

He’s definitely making them think. If he leaves, I just hope it isn’t Dallas.

[KingKev]

He’s definitely making them think. If he leaves, I just hope it isn’t Dallas.

I think he will be a target for teams with the MLE.

[exstatic]

I think he will be a target for teams with the MLE.

Good. Let some other team throw money at him.

[emanueldavidginobili]

1504292349278666752

[John B]

I don’t know why some posters here expect Lonnie to do more :bang. He’s been bringing spark off the bench in the tune of 18pts ppg in the last 10 games. That’s more than what anyone can expect from a 6th man. I would be very happy if he takes the MLE.

[The Truth #6]

The larger issue is roster construction and how his minutes compete with Vassel, Primo, and arguably, Keldon too, if they didn’t play him out of position at PF. A real logjam.

[KingKev]

The larger issue is roster construction and how his minutes compete with Vassel, Primo, and arguably, Keldon too, if they didn’t play him out of position at PF. A real logjam.

Agreed. Hopefully we can move Keldon to spending time at both the 3 and 4 (matchup dependent) if we can find a starting quality 4 but that only makes things worse.

The logjam isn’t just Walker, Primo, Vassell and Keldon it’s JRich and Langford also with a few more rookies in the pipeline. That’s alot depth and young players with upside and no clear starter. Good problem to have but needs to be reconciled at somepoint.

[John B]

It’s telling who will stay and who will be dealt. For now, Spurs players are doing great building their stocks, Pop giving them minutes to showcase. It’s like summer camp where everybody’s auditioning for their job. And with the exception of Murray, I don’t see anyone untouchable depending on the return.

[exstatic]

I’m pretty much convinced that the Spurs are stealth tanking. Even with his scoring burst of late, Lonnie is still a solid 12 point net negative rating player. His defense can only be described as Forbes class. If they really wanted to win, they’d be force feeding Vassell, not Walker.

[wildbill2u]

Well, if this is audition time, Devin is singing off key and taking prat falls. He can't take the starting role next year based on what he is doing lately.

[Kevin]

I’m pretty much convinced that the Spurs are stealth tanking. Even with his scoring burst of late, Lonnie is still a solid 12 point net negative rating player. His defense can only be described as Forbes class. If they really wanted to win, they’d be force feeding Vassell, not Walker.

Let someone else pay Lonnie. Horrible defender and a streaky shooter at best.

[exstatic]

Well, if this is audition time, Devin is singing off key and taking prat falls. He can't take the starting role next year based on what he is doing lately.

He’s a three level scorer and an elite team defender. About the only thing that needs work is his 3 point shot, and it’s not bad, just average. His USG rate is below 19, so he’s not getting the ball very much.

[John B]

Let someone else pay Lonnie. Horrible defender and a streaky shooter at best.

What do you think Jamal Crawford or Lou Williams did, both multiple 6th man of the year winners? They’re streaky scorers and admittedly below average defenders.

[exstatic]

What do you think Jamal Crawford or Lou Williams did, both multiple 6th man of the year winners? They’re streaky scorers without much defense.

And they bounced all over the league, and in Crawfords case, made 124M in 20 seasons, about $6M per year.

We don’t need a 6th man of the year. That’s a niche player for contenders. We need players who can elevate us from the lottery to the playoffs, and then contention. That ain’t Lonnie.

[The Truth #6]

Sadly, have to agree about Lonnie. Maybe he should have never cut his hair?

[Kevin]

What do you think Jamal Crawford or Lou Williams did, both multiple 6th man of the year winners? They’re streaky scorers and admittedly below average defenders.

Consistently bad for 3.5 years until a month ago. Lonnie is streaky at best and even that feels a bit generous given his overall body of work.

[KingKev]

Walker should hope to be Crawford or LouWill. He is more Swaggy P at this point.

[BatManu20]

You’re definitely posting from your burner ^^ :lol

[KingKev]

You’re definitely posting from your burner ^^ :lol

I’ve never been on the Walker bandwagon but concede he has recently played well enough to garner a QO and probably get the MLE.

JCrawford and LouWill were some of the best to ever come off the bench as an instant bucket. Lonnie hasn’t been able to do that consistently for half a season.

[TD 21]

Again with this Crawford and Williams nonsense. They were/are combo guards who can create their own shot. Walker IV is more of an off ball scorer. He needs someone to either create for him or something to be ran for him so that he has a head start on the defense.

Hopefully they're not fooled with this latest (overblown) stretch and either cut him loose or go no further than the QO.

[spurraider21]

right now josh richardson is our only guard hitting 3's at an acceptable rate. only murray is shown to be good enough to not be too concerned about it. lonnie/primo/vassell all need to be shooting better

[talkspurs]

I don’t know why some posters here expect Lonnie to do more :bang. He’s been bringing spark off the bench in the tune of 18pts ppg in the last 10 games. That’s more than what anyone can expect from a 6th man. I would be very happy if he takes the MLE.

have you looked at how many shots he is taking over the last 6 to get those points. He is not shooting efficiently. His FT% also is not very good.

[John B]

I’ve never been on the Walker bandwagon but concede he has recently played well enough to garner a QO and probably get the MLE.

JCrawford and LouWill were some of the best to ever come off the bench as an instant bucket. Lonnie hasn’t been able to do that consistently for half a season.

The comparison was because Lonnie is a streaky scorer but not much defense. Well there, Crawford and Williams both multiple 6th man awards with admittedly no defense.

The point is people here expects starters production from Lonnie. The guy is coming off the bench, and putting in 18pts ppg the last 10 games. If he can consistently put 18pts ppg off the bench, heck that’s great. But people here, but his defense sucks. Well Crawford averaged 14.6 ppg coming off the bench and played no defense.

[John B]

Again with this Crawford and Williams nonsense. They were/are combo guards who can create their own shot. Walker IV is more of an off ball scorer. He needs someone to either create for him or something to be ran for him so that he has a head start on the defense.

Hopefully they're not fooled with this latest (overblown) stretch and either cut him loose or go no further than the QO.


When was the last time you watched a game? Lonnie an off-ball scorer? :lmao The kid can create for himself and others. Albeit not consistently before 10 games ago. But Lonnie does not need anyone to create for him. Off-ball scorer? :lmao

[John B]

have you looked at how many shots he is taking over the last 6 to get those points. He is not shooting efficiently. His FT% also is not very good.

Here’s for your reference.
FG% 45.3. 3P% 40.6%. FT%. 74.2 PPG 18.3



SPLITS
GP
MIN
FG%
3P%
FT%
REB
AST
BLK
STL
PF
TO
PTS




L10
9
26.0
45.3
40.6
74.2
2.4
1.7
0.1
0.4
1.2
0.6
18.3

[CGD]

^ outside FT, those are solid shooting numbers tbh

[rankingtear]

When was the last time you watched a game? Lonnie an off-ball scorer? :lmao The kid can create for himself and others. Albeit not consistently before 10 games ago. But Lonnie does not need anyone to create for him. Off-ball scorer? :lmao

Last 10 games 72% of Lonnie FGM is assisted.

[John B]

Last 10 games 72% of Lonnie FGM is assisted.

I don’t know where you get that. But Lonnie is far from an off-ball scorer. He can create for himself and facilitate at times. He can penetrate at will. The issue was consistency and weak defense.

[exstatic]

I don’t know where you get that. But Lonnie is far from an off-ball scorer. He can create for himself and facilitate at times. He can penetrate at will. The issue was consistency and weak defense.

If he doesn’t have a defender out of position before he puts the ball down, he passes it away. He only drives with an opening. Haven’t seen him cross over the initial defender in weeks.

[rankingtear]

I don’t know where you get that. But Lonnie is far from an off-ball scorer. He can create for himself and facilitate at times. He can penetrate at will. The issue was consistency and weak defense.

https://www.nba.com/stats/players/scoring/?sort=PCT_AST_FGM&dir=-1&Season=2021-22&SeasonType=Regular%20Season&TeamID=1610612759&LastNGames=10

[Chinook]

If he doesn’t have a defender out of position before he puts the ball down, he passes it away. He only drives with an opening. Haven’t seen him cross over the initial defender in weeks.

Wait, why do you WANT to see Walker cross a guy over like he's on a blacktop? People were trying to shit on Lonnie for not passing last week, and now he passes too much? Walker has always tried to fit within the offense. When he doesn't have the best shot, he rarely takes it. You could argue it's a flaw when a player does that an scores like 10 points a game. But when a guy is scoring 20 points most nights, it's good shot-selection. In the same way, Walker doesn't keep the ball and drive one-on-one very often because that's not good basketball. He's far more likely to use a screen or, you know, just shoot the ball on the catch rather than trying to dribble into a bad shot like many players on the team do.

RT posted the stats to show Walker's assisted makes. He's right in line with basically every other rotation wing. During the Beautiful game season, no one had fewer than half of their field goals assisted other than Parker, Joseph and Jeffers. That includes Manu. The idea that Walker is SUPPOSED to get unassisted buckets is antithetical to what many people want from the team. Supposedly, DeRozan had to go because he was a black hole on offense. Meanwhile it's a problem that Walker is scoring well without having to dominate the ball, and it's bad? And then when he doesn't pass as much as he usual does, it's also bad?

I just don't think the criticisms of Walker really have a throughline anymore.

[talkspurs]

Here’s for your reference.
FG% 45.3. 3P% 40.6%. FT%. 74.2 PPG 18.3



SPLITS
GP
MIN
FG%
3P%
FT%
REB
AST
BLK
STL
PF
TO
PTS




L10
9
26.0
45.3
40.6
74.2
2.4
1.7
0.1
0.4
1.2
0.6
18.3




I said last 6 for a reason. His first 4 games of the 10 really help out his fg % as all were about 50%. when you look at last 6 his numbers are not as good.

[KobesAchilles]

Walker shooting is a good thing. Even if it’s low efficiency. It’s what he should’ve been doing for the past 2 years. He needs to be a streaky shooter who is a gunner and calls his own number. Who the fuck should he create for anyways? It takes time to get your move set down in games. Also 18 points in 26 minutes a game is behind impressive. What player do we have that can do that other than Lonnie?

Lonnie has low bball iq and no feel for the game. So keep the shit simple for him until he eventually (hopefully) learns what to do the more experience he gets. Just look to score. That’s it. Call your number and be aggressive.

[Slippy]

Again with this Crawford and Williams nonsense. They were/are combo guards who can create their own shot. Walker IV is more of an off ball scorer. He needs someone to either create for him or something to be ran for him so that he has a head start on the defense.

Hopefully they're not fooled with this latest (overblown) stretch and either cut him loose or go no further than the QO.

You fooling yourself here. You need players to take advantage of that head start . Lonnie is the only one capable on this spurs team. The orher is Devin but his play of late has declined on both ends.

What makes players like Crawford and Williams special is they have the required skill and savy through experience on finding ways to score. They certainly cant take advantage when they have a step on their man like Lonnie can so yes they are different. Give Lonnie 10 years in the league. You could see the same .

[MannyIsGod]

This thread just shows me how little some posters here understand NBA basketball. Spurs would be stupid to let Lonnie walk with his current level of play.

[MannyIsGod]

People want to talk about advanced stats and net ratings without actually providing context of who Lonnie is playing next to. When Lonnie is playing with the starters - basically in place of McDermott, the lineup is 1.4+ per 100 possessions. In those situations where it was Derrick instead of Vassel, its negative. This fits perfectly into what we've seen since the deadline. Lonnie without Derrick White is a much more positive player. Same goes for Devin.

Now, of course when its next to primo, Tre jones, and Zach Collins, the lineup is hugely negative. I WONDER WHY. MUST BE LONNIES FAULT.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/w/walkelo01/lineups/2022

Look at the two man combinations. Lonnie with primo or Lonnie with Tre Jones are both incredibly negative. Lonnie with others, positive.

Don't be so fucking lazy as to look at stats without context.

The reason Lonnie's net ratings aren't up in March isn't because of him - its because he's being drug down by Primo and Jones.

[CGD]

Agree with sentiments above, lots of goalpost moving. The basic question for me has always been: is it worth giving him a DJ/White level extension last summer/now or is it better to let the market set his (lower) price and decide whether it’s worth the match?

I still don’t see the evidence to suggest the spurs where to wrong to wait on him.

[Drewlius]

I’d be extremely hesitant to pull the trigger on any type of extension that commits us to Lonnie over 8-10 mil per season. I really don’t like how he has only decided to start showing some focus and putting up stats when he is fighting to get paid. He’s been so lost out there for so long, I just don’t trust it. I could easily see him reverting back after he locks up a deal.

[exstatic]

Wait, why do you WANT to see Walker cross a guy over like he's on a blacktop? People were trying to shit on Lonnie for not passing last week, and now he passes too much? Walker has always tried to fit within the offense. When he doesn't have the best shot, he rarely takes it. You could argue it's a flaw when a player does that an scores like 10 points a game. But when a guy is scoring 20 points most nights, it's good shot-selection. In the same way, Walker doesn't keep the ball and drive one-on-one very often because that's not good basketball. He's far more likely to use a screen or, you know, just shoot the ball on the catch rather than trying to dribble into a bad shot like many players on the team do.

RT posted the stats to show Walker's assisted makes. He's right in line with basically every other rotation wing. During the Beautiful game season, no one had fewer than half of their field goals assisted other than Parker, Joseph and Jeffers. That includes Manu. The idea that Walker is SUPPOSED to get unassisted buckets is antithetical to what many people want from the team. Supposedly, DeRozan had to go because he was a black hole on offense. Meanwhile it's a problem that Walker is scoring well without having to dominate the ball, and it's bad? And then when he doesn't pass as much as he usual does, it's also bad?

I just don't think the criticisms of Walker really have a throughline anymore.

Not talking about assists. Pretty much give up on that. Sean talks about two types of passes in his commentary, basically productive and unproductive. Productive passes happen when you penetrate, causing the defense to rotate, and pass to an open man. Unproductive passes happen off of no action.

Yes, I absolutely want Lonnie to at least TRY to break down that first man. Doesn't have to lead to a score for him. Could easily lead to one of those productive passes. If you don't attack the defense, they get to stand still and cover their man with ease.

[exstatic]

People want to talk about advanced stats and net ratings without actually providing context of who Lonnie is playing next to. When Lonnie is playing with the starters - basically in place of McDermott, the lineup is 1.4+ per 100 possessions. In those situations where it was Derrick instead of Vassel, its negative. This fits perfectly into what we've seen since the deadline. Lonnie without Derrick White is a much more positive player. Same goes for Devin.

Now, of course when its next to primo, Tre jones, and Zach Collins, the lineup is hugely negative. I WONDER WHY. MUST BE LONNIES FAULT.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/w/walkelo01/lineups/2022

Look at the two man combinations. Lonnie with primo or Lonnie with Tre Jones are both incredibly negative. Lonnie with others, positive.

Don't be so fucking lazy as to look at stats without context.

The reason Lonnie's net ratings aren't up in March isn't because of him - its because he's being drug down by Primo and Jones.

And then you have Devin Vassell, who in the 5 man combos has one 0.0, and one -2.0, and everything else is positive, some HUGELY so. Vassell should be force fed the ball and given those minutes. Doesn't really seem to matter too much WHO he plays with. He's a 3 level scorer who ACTUALLY plays some defense, and elevates his teammates when on the floor.

[Kevin]

The Spurs have a glut of wings with four picks in the upcoming draft plus a ton of cap space.

Let Lonnie walk. Up until a month ago Lonnie was flat out bad. Even now he's really only decent when you factor in his defense.

[MannyIsGod]

And then you have Devin Vassell, who in the 5 man combos has one 0.0, and one -2.0, and everything else is positive, some HUGELY so. Vassell should be force fed the ball and given those minutes. Doesn't really seem to matter too much WHO he plays with. He's a 3 level scorer who ACTUALLY plays some defense, and elevates his teammates when on the floor.

Ok but so? The Spurs should keep both. Devins role is very much different than that of Lonnie and both are good prospects. Even if the Spurs don't know if they plan to keep Lonnie more than a year or two they should still sign him to a deal as opposed to letting him walk.


This is the same shit people in the past said about DJM and White. You guys need to understand that you don't draft an asset and then turn around and let him walk just when he's starting to come through on his value. People are in here balking at giving Lonnie an MLE type deal when it wouldn't hurt the Spurs at all to do so there there is a very good chance that such a deal will turn out to be a great value the way DJM's extension (and to a lesser extent White's) were. Unless the bottom falls out for Lonnie, its not really possible for him to be an incredibly bad contract for that amount. Its just not that much money and Lonnie isn't going to have a floor like someone such as Forbes.

[The Truth #6]

Ok but so? The Spurs should keep both. Devins role is very much different than that of Lonnie and both are good prospects. Even if the Spurs don't know if they plan to keep Lonnie more than a year or two they should still sign him to a deal as opposed to letting him walk.


This is the same shit people in the past said about DJM and White. You guys need to understand that you don't draft an asset and then turn around and let him walk just when he's starting to come through on his value. People are in here balking at giving Lonnie an MLE type deal when it wouldn't hurt the Spurs at all to do so there there is a very good chance that such a deal will turn out to be a great value the way DJM's extension (and to a lesser extent White's) were. Unless the bottom falls out for Lonnie, its not really possible for him to be an incredibly bad contract for that amount. Its just not that much money and Lonnie isn't going to have a floor like someone such as Forbes.

After going back and forth, I agree with this take in the end.

[R. DeMurre]

Lonnie's the kind of player who makes a GM's job hard. The temptation to look at his recent showings and hope it means more than the past few years is understandable, and I'm sure lots of scouts & GMs are looking at him right now trying to figure out if this is a legitimate show of improvement or a short hot streak. I noticed an interesting coincidence looking at his career numbers just now: his career 3pt% after four years in the NBA is 34.6%, which just so happens to be the same exact 3pt% he shot in his one year in college. His 3pt% for this season is 31.8%, which is the worst overall showing of his four seasons. His TS% this year is pretty much even with his career TS%. I'd agree that Lonnie at a reasonable price could make sense-- either to play or to use as a trade piece-- but if some other team views him as a potential big time scorer and wants to offer him a bit of money, I don't know that it would make sense financially to match, especially now that Richardson is around.

[The Truth #6]

Yeah, Richardson is interesting because some of our young players may not even get better than him, sadly, but we have to develop the youth to find out. It’s the challenge when consistently drafting out of the top ten: there’s no pecking order.

[R. DeMurre]

Yeah, Richardson is interesting because some of our young players may not even get better than him, sadly, but we have to develop the youth to find out. It’s the challenge when consistently drafting out of the top ten: there’s no pecking order.


Just to be clear, I'm not advocating big minutes for Richardson. I just think that paying Walker too much in addition to Richardson and Langford would mean the Spurs would be paying the equivalent of a #1 option's salary to have three average guys who are all probably bench players, and that's with Primo and Vassell in about the same queue, when the glaring weakness of this team seems to me to be the forward positions.

[The Truth #6]

Just to be clear, I'm not advocating big minutes for Richardson. I just think that paying Walker too much in addition to Richardson and Langford would mean the Spurs would be paying the equivalent of a #1 option's salary to have three average guys who are all probably bench players, and that's with Primo and Vassell in about the same queue, when the glaring weakness of this team seems to me to be the forward positions.

Shit, I forgot about Romeo. Wright has a lot to figure out by draft night, but for the most part, I’m confident he will try to make something work.

[TD 21]

When was the last time you watched a game? Lonnie an off-ball scorer? :lmao The kid can create for himself and others. Albeit not consistently before 10 games ago. But Lonnie does not need anyone to create for him. Off-ball scorer? :lmao


https://www.nba.com/stats/players/scoring/?sort=PCT_AST_FGM&dir=-1&Season=2021-22&SeasonType=Regular%20Season&TeamID=1610612759&LastNGames=10

:wakeup



You fooling yourself here. You need players to take advantage of that head start . Lonnie is the only one capable on this spurs team. The orher is Devin but his play of late has declined on both ends.

What makes players like Crawford and Williams special is they have the required skill and savy through experience on finding ways to score. They certainly cant take advantage when they have a step on their man like Lonnie can so yes they are different. Give Lonnie 10 years in the league. You could see the same .

I didn't say otherwise.

So you agree.

It doesn't take 10 years to figure out a player or for them to find their niche.

[John B]

:wakeup

The team leads the league in assists with Pop’s motion offense, since the beautiful game. Everyone gets a share of the basket off assists. It’s funny cherry picking on Lonnie’s :lmao.

FGM% Assy, McD 100%, KBD 90.9%, Keldon 81.7%, Collins 80%, Vassell 77.3%, and so on.

But if you really watch the game and not just look at the stats, you’ll know that Lonnie is far from a catch and shoot guy. He can get to the basket at will, break defense and even facilitate. Again his problem was inconsistency and weak defense.

The last 10 games Lonnie has shown great production in the tune of 18 ppg. If he can continue that throughout the remaining 13 games, it would be prudent not to offer him and just let him walk. He’s only 23 yrs old and can easily move that contract. As somebody pointed out, you don’t draft at 18 and just watch him walk when he made the turn.



I didn't say otherwise.

So you agree.

It doesn't take 10 years to figure out a player or for them to find their niche.

[exstatic]

It’s really bad that at his age, he’s got back,problems. It’s been kind of an on and off thing this season, but when he got knocked down, he almost couldn’t walk off the floor and into the tunnel.

[Slippy]

:wakeup




I didn't say otherwise.

So you agree.

It doesn't take 10 years to figure out a player or for them to find their niche.

No you asserted that Lonnie needs plays run for him and is more of a off the ball scorer. You fooling yrself thats its a negative. Prettey much all the spurs on the team needs plays run for them to get the offense going. Only a few can take advantage of it and create for others. Lonnie is one of them. This season he using that advantage to get to the line consistently and ivee seen him passing to teammatesfor an easier look. Thats some fast growth rhere considering we didnt see much of it previous seasons. Manu was a great exponent of using his athleticism to ge to them FTs so love what im seeing. Spurs can milk that part of his game when needed on demand like it on tap.

Being an off the ball scorer than can take advantage of a rotating defense is also a big plus. Lonnies biggest knock is shot selection and lack of agression. What we seen now is a guy not second guessing and showing abilty to recognize that correct move leading to easier shots. No doubt thats Manus influence but it shows Lonnie is a learner that continues to grow. He completing plays consistently every game now.

You getting caught up on the comparisons . Since that trade deadline Lonnie is giving us his niche and in 10 years experience will play its part when that athleticism starts to go.

[Spurs Homer]

Lonnie is pretty soft..

a knee to the leg/thigh?

seriously?

get the fuck up, limp down the court, shake that shit off and suck it up you fucking pussy!

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Lonnie is pretty soft..

a knee to the leg/thigh?

seriously?

get the fuck up, limp down the court, shake that shit off and suck it up you fucking pussy!

It wasn’t that hit but his back. He was hurting well before that incident.

[TD 21]

The team leads the league in assists with Pop’s motion offense, since the beautiful game. Everyone gets a share of the basket off assists. It’s funny cherry picking on Lonnie’s :lmao.

FGM% Assy, McD 100%, KBD 90.9%, Keldon 81.7%, Collins 80%, Vassell 77.3%, and so on.

But if you really watch the game and not just look at the stats, you’ll know that Lonnie is far from a catch and shoot guy. He can get to the basket at will, break defense and even facilitate. Again his problem was inconsistency and weak defense.

The last 10 games Lonnie has shown great production in the tune of 18 ppg. If he can continue that throughout the remaining 13 games, it would be prudent not to offer him and just let him walk. He’s only 23 yrs old and can easily move that contract. As somebody pointed out, you don’t draft at 18 and just watch him walk when he made the turn.

Not true and the team went away from a motion offense in the Scumbag/Aldridge/DeRozan era (and you claim I don't watch the games).

I don't even mean so much on this team. Given the dearth of shot creation and talent in general (which leads to inflated counting stats), almost everyone is either forced or at least thinks they are to do at least slightly more off the dribble than capable.

I'm saying, his ideal role in the league is as an off ball scorer. That's not limited to catch and shoot. There's all kinds of off ball screening actions and different ways to utilize them.



No you asserted that Lonnie needs plays run for him and is more of a off the ball scorer. You fooling yrself thats its a negative.


Being an off the ball scorer than can take advantage of a rotating defense is also a big plus.

You getting caught up on the comparisons .

I didn't say it was a positive or negative, just that it was.

It can be, if the player in question is more efficient than him. He's just not a good enough shooter.

Nah, I'm just dispelling them.

[BackHome]

Any word on his injury?

[exstatic]

Any word on his injury?

He’s had a pad, either hot or cold, on his back when on the bench for a couple of weeks now. It didn’t just happen in that last game.

[John B]

Just rest him so he doesn’t sabotage the tank. That OKC last second heroic was a costly win :lol

[Ice009]

I’d be extremely hesitant to pull the trigger on any type of extension that commits us to Lonnie over 8-10 mil per season. I really don’t like how he has only decided to start showing some focus and putting up stats when he is fighting to get paid. He’s been so lost out there for so long, I just don’t trust it. I could easily see him reverting back after he locks up a deal.

I would tend to agree as I've seen a lot of contract players when I was younger to learn a good lesson about that. Having said that, there is one thing I keep thinking about Lonnie's improvement this season, and that is working with Manu. Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't recall that he worked with Manu exclusively or as much as he is now any other season, did he? If not, I think Manu may have had a very positive impact on him and these improvements could be very real rather than just contract year stuff. I like to believe that Manu is just that good.

[exstatic]

I would tend to agree as I've seen a lot of contract players when I was younger to learn a good lesson about that. Having said that, there is one thing I keep thinking about Lonnie's improvement this season, and that is working with Manu. Correct me if I am wrong, but I don't recall that he worked with Manu exclusively or as much as he is now any other season, did he? If not, I think Manu may have had a very positive impact on him and these improvements could be very real rather than just contract year stuff. I like to believe that Manu is just that good.

He’s not any better than he was earlier in the season, he’s just getting more touches and shots, higher USG%.

[rankingtear]

Darko and LEBRON still has him as top 10 worst defender in the league. Did he really improve his defense? Though it would be better on the second unit but he still won't be bothered to jump on anything but dunks.

[Chinook]

Walker's athleticism is way more apparent on the acrobatic layups he shoots than dunks, and the height he gets on his jumpers is one of the main reasons it's such a weapon for him.

I swear folks aren't even trying to come up with good criticism. No one should think jumping high is the necessary piece to blocking shots. Dude skies for at least one contested board every game. There are reasons to criticize him, but that he only jumps to dunk has to be the worst one I've ever read.

[rankingtear]

Walker's athleticism is way more apparent on the acrobatic layups he shoots than dunks, and the height he gets on his jumpers is one of the main reasons it's such a weapon for him.

I swear folks aren't even trying to come up with good criticism. No one should think jumping high is the necessary piece to blocking shots. Dude skies for at least one contested board every game. There are reasons to criticize him, but that he only jumps to dunk has to be the worst one I've ever read.

Your taking it too literal.

[rankingtear]

People blame Keldon for our rebounding woes but Lonnie on/off is tops on the team by a wide margin. Meaning we get outrebounded by a lot when he is in the lineup almost triple the next guy. So yeah jump a little more.

[lmbebo]

People blame Keldon for our rebounding woes but Lonnie on/off is tops on the team by a wide margin. Meaning we get outrebounded by a lot when he is in the lineup almost triple the next guy. So yeah jump a little more.

Don't watch enough, but imagine that our rebounding is heavy from the back court and we aren't interchangeable in that fact... Just shows up much we stink at the 4/5 spot.

[Em-City]

Great post

[emanueldavidginobili]

1505719185401208834

Lonnie way down there wow

[BackHome]

Damn we really need to get a top 6 pick this year, hit on our other two first and in 2023 get a top 3 player to turn this shit around

[Slippy]

1505719185401208834

Lonnie way down there wow

The stat makes Jacob at 26. Thats some select company, top 30 .Wow with an exclamation point. Lol:)

[BatManu20]

Welp.



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FQR6kiBX0AAin7x?format=jpg&name=large

[onechance87]

Im done with lonnie....We got a few first rounds picks to mess with.....Lonnie was just to inconsistent...

Might as well gamble with another prospect if lonnies gonna be inconsistent another year.

[ZeusWillJudge]

I said it in another thread, but the Spurs could just let Lonnie go and slide Malik Monk in that spot. They can easily afford to pay him more than the Lakers are allowed to offer.

[Ditty]

The thing with Lonnie imo I think he may have reached his peak as a NBA player. He definitely belongs. He’s a pretty good player more than bad even with his inconsistencies. With his athletic gifts he still isn’t very good at the rim unless he has a clear path to it. He had a great shot last year and this year it was inconsistent. His defense apparently improved I will give him that. If a team is willing to offer a Derozan type of deal with a future first and a bad contract for Lonnie. I would do it in a heart beat. If he’s back I wouldn’t be disappointed either but could see him get D. White if contenders think they are close.

[KingKev]

The thing with Lonnie imo I think he may have reached his peak as a NBA player. He definitely belongs. He’s a pretty good player more than bad even with his inconsistencies. With his athletic gifts he still isn’t very good at the rim unless he has a clear path to it. He had a great shot last year and this year it was inconsistent. His defense apparently improved I will give him that. If a team is willing to offer a Derozan type of deal with a future first and a bad contract for Lonnie. I would do it in a heart beat. If he’s back I wouldn’t be disappointed either but could see him get D. White if contenders think they are close.

LOL. I’m sure contenders are thinking to themselves Lonnie Walker is the guy to put them over.


He has 0 trade value. He had none at the trade deadline and less now because his RFA status complicates matters.

[Texas_Ranger]

Our roster is already full of average players and Walker is right in the middle of that, which means he sucks... its time to get rid of these losers... i expect the same thing with Primo. If only this retarded franchise wouldnt waste first round picks on second rounders, cause they think they will look smart, if any of these players turn into Manu or Parker.

[duncan2150]

He played 17 minutes, scoring 12 with 5/9 shooting 2/4 on threes but people are taking shot at him. Ridiculous imo

[KingKev]

He played 17 minutes, scoring 12 with 5/9 shooting 2/4 on threes but people are taking shot at him. Ridiculous imo


He had the best and most consistent stretch of his career these last 20 games or so but we have 5 SGs between JRich, Primo, Vassell, Langford and Walker. There is simply no reason to retain him. He’s played good enough that someone pribably offers him the MLE. I can easily see him getting 3yr/30mm and it would probably be a mistake to match that.

[duncan2150]

10 million a year is not a mistake for me but i understand your point. I just don't understand why people are on him while he played some good basketball lately and yesterday.

For the Sg's Langford is gone imo and i prefer Lonnie actually, i let Walker go if i have another SG/SF via FA or Draft but if not and he's cheap i hope he stays in his 6th man role.

Will be strange to get rid of a guy when he starts to pan out. ( unless he commands to much money)

[Slippy]

Welp.



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FQR6kiBX0AAin7x?format=jpg&name=large

After scoring 9 off the bench between the 1st and 2nd i reckon pop forgot about Lonnie. Old age is a factor. He brought back Lonnie with 1min left in da 2nd. Like wtf . They guy was scoring with ease.

The second half . Lonnie had 1 stint off the bench, then never saw the court again.

The old man is past it. Dont want him back

[Chinook]

It was pretty clear Walker's back was ailing him last night. I imagine if fully healthy he would have played a good deal more. I think he played well but was limited.

[Atl Spur]

Walker is not better than Langford overall in my opinion….. time will tell though. Not to play Langford was strategy by the spurs I’m thinking.

[exstatic]

He played 17 minutes, scoring 12 with 5/9 shooting 2/4 on threes but people are taking shot at him. Ridiculous imo

You cannot play Lonnie in a game where you are behind. He gives up as many points as he scores,plus a few more.

[duncan2150]

You cannot play Lonnie in a game where you are behind. He gives up as many points as he scores,plus a few more.

His D was not bad but you don't like him so no reason to have a debate about him .

[rankingtear]

End of an era. Forbes better.

[exstatic]

His D was not bad but you don't like him so no reason to have a debate about him .

Manny, please ignore this post********************************************** *********************************

He is a net negative player. His defense is easily that bad. The numbers do not lie. For every 100 possessions he is on the floor, basically a full 48 minute game by our pace, the team scores 103 points, and surrenders 115. You cannot fucking spin that.

[John B]

Lonnie has shown that he can break defenses and score at will. He’s good for 20 pts at times, and that’s more than you can expect for a 6th man. Yes for a 6th man price, I would resign him back.

[duncan2150]

Manny, please ignore this post********************************************** *********************************

He is a net negative player. His defense is easily that bad. The numbers do not lie. For every 100 possessions he is on the floor, basically a full 48 minute game by our pace, the team scores 103 points, and surrenders 115. You cannot fucking spin that.

I'm talking about his D yesterday..........

[SpurSpike]

You people are crazy to be hating on Lonnie. He was one of the only players playing fearless basketball last night. With 12 points in 16 minutes he was in pace to be our top scorer in an important game.

[exstatic]

I'm talking about his D yesterday..........

Yesterday is a nano-sized sample. Overall, this year, and for his career, it's poor, and you can't afford that in your rotation if you're a borderline playoff/play in team.

Teams used to have guys like this, and wondered by they didn't win. No need to wonder any more. The numbers tell the tale.

[The Truth #6]

Walker is not better than Langford overall in my opinion….. time will tell though. Not to play Langford was strategy by the spurs I’m thinking.

That's actually a pretty bold take. I'm not sure what the strategy with Langford would have been, though. I mean, I'm assuming if was better than our other players then he would have played in the same way that Richardson did. I suppose the strategy may have been to get a last look at Walker before they figure out what to do with him in the off-season. But for me, I'm not putting a lot of faith in Langford until I actually see something on the court, though.

[The Truth #6]

1505719185401208834

Lonnie way down there wow

Lonnie IS way down there, which is hard to ignore. I think he's realizing he has to be a microwave player to have a career. But the shocker for me is Primo, one away from dead last. Ugh.

[exstatic]

That's actually a pretty bold take. I'm not sure what the strategy with Langford would have been, though. I mean, I'm assuming if was better than our other players then he would have played in the same way that Richardson did. I suppose the strategy may have been to get a last look at Walker before they figure out what to do with him in the off-season. But for me, I'm not putting a lot of faith in Langford until I actually see something on the court, though.

I think he had a hamstring issue that plagued him this year.

[exstatic]

Lonnie IS way down there, which is hard to ignore. I think he's realizing he has to be a microwave player to have a career. But the shocker for me is Primo, one away from dead last. Ugh.

I'd be more concerned about the 4th year player at the bottom than the rookie.

[KingKev]

That's actually a pretty bold take. I'm not sure what the strategy with Langford would have been, though. I mean, I'm assuming if was better than our other players then he would have played in the same way that Richardson did. I suppose the strategy may have been to get a last look at Walker before they figure out what to do with him in the off-season. But for me, I'm not putting a lot of faith in Langford until I actually see something on the court, though.

Yeah, i’m pretty confident he actually is injured as there was no reason not to give him a look down the stretch of this season. Tough to have a view on Langford at this point. Normally, willingness to be a scrappy and prideful defender gets you a shot to show your worth so I wouldn’t count him out just yet. He was a pretty highly touted HS player. He is easily a much better athlete than Primo. I actually think those two will be battling for the 5th guard next year. He could also easily be a throw in for salary matching purposes on what should he an active draft day/free agency period.

[Atl Spur]

Our 19 year old didn’t have to be on the list if was afforded time to sit and learn! Pop saw fit to throw him in the fire ( I agree with the strategy ) and understands stats mean nothing in year 1 for this young man!! Primo will be bigger, better, stronger, and wiser next year. Let Lonnie go and sign Malik Monk……

[Atl Spur]

Yeah, i’m pretty confident he actually is injured as there was no reason not to give him a look down the stretch of this season. Tough to have a view on Langford at this point. Normally, willingness to be a scrappy and prideful defender gets you a shot to show your worth so I wouldn’t count him out just yet. He was a pretty highly touted HS player. He is easily a much better athlete than Primo. I actually think those two will be battling for the 5th guard next year. He could also easily be a throw in for salary matching purposes on what should he an active draft day/free agency period.

They see Langford in practice…..trust they know his skill set!

[Dverde]

Lonnie unliked all the tweets about his playing time. Lonnie is coming back. Book it.

[SAGirl]

It was pretty clear Walker's back was ailing him last night. I imagine if fully healthy he would have played a good deal more. I think he played well but was limited.
This, coupled with himself saying that he was unlikely to recover fully from the back injury by the play in timeline and that he was just going to have to play through the pain. Some fans may have missed that interview he gave understandably.

[MannyIsGod]

Manny, please ignore this post********************************************** *********************************

He is a net negative player. His defense is easily that bad. The numbers do not lie. For every 100 possessions he is on the floor, basically a full 48 minute game by our pace, the team scores 103 points, and surrenders 115. You cannot fucking spin that.

lol

[MannyIsGod]

I want Lonnie back if the price is good. I think Lonnie should be given a prove it contract. His ability to score that he unlocked this year finally is really worth having on a bench.

[KingKev]

Lonnie unliked all the tweets about his playing time. Lonnie is coming back. Book it.

lol that says the opposite to me. He was obviously pissed and did what the younger generation does when upset… take to social media. Unliking doesn’t get him a new deal, the fact that he liked that to begin with is another reason to think long hard before offering him one.

[Atl Spur]

Dude is not that good…….. journeyman type in my opinion

[SAGirl]

Lonnie IS way down there, which is hard to ignore. I think he's realizing he has to be a microwave player to have a career. But the shocker for me is Primo, one away from dead last. Ugh.
Primo has been very underwhelming. I am just shying away from criticism until next season. He got playing time in his rookie year and the Spurs being a bad team, they need to start testing their first round lottery-picked rookies early. These are not TimmyD Spurs anymore. If they find a star-diamond in the rough- we’ll see some things early to get excited about and Primo didn’t show it but he may still improve a lot from current state.

He’s too young to say much. His shot, the one thing I was most excited about with him has been reworked and he might have hit some rookie wall as a result. Next season should be more telling for me. But I am not excited about him like I was with Dejounte, who even as wildly as he played with the bad handles and so skinny as he was his rookie season, had a quickness about him and a first step that made me think he had potential to be somebody in the league if he improved, and he had some good games in his rookie season to get excited about. Primo hasn’t shown that but he’s too young for me to condemn him, so young he could have just been in college this entire season and still be young for this draft. I don’t know that he’d be drafted any higher than he was anyways. Spurs gambled on his youth, so we need to give him time. I am glad he played, got experience, a list of things to work on, and the time to do it under the tutelage of team coaches. Next season will be more telling for me.

[Atl Spur]

Murray is a good combo guard……we need a dynamic point guard. I still say trade him while his stock his high.

[Dverde]

lol that says the opposite to me. He was obviously pissed and did what the younger generation does when upset… take to social media. Unliking doesn’t get him a new deal, the fact that he liked that to begin with is another reason to think long hard before offering him one.

I think if he wanted to leave or wanted to change teams he would have kept his stupid likes. It does make him look dumb, maybe his agent told him to unlike them. Not a fan of Lonnie and I hope he is gone. It scares me he isn’t because he did play well for that stretch. I think Spurs give him a long term deal.

[ZeusWillJudge]

Primo has been very underwhelming. I am just shying away from criticism until next season. He got playing time in his rookie year and the Spurs being a bad team, they need to start testing their first round lottery-picked rookies early. These are not TimmyD Spurs anymore. If they find a star-diamond in the rough- we’ll see some things early to get excited about and Primo didn’t show it but he may still improve a lot from current state.

He’s too young to say much. His shot, the one thing I was most excited about with him has been reworked and he might have hit some rookie wall as a result. Next season should be more telling for me. But I am not excited about him like I was with Dejounte, who even as wildly as he played with the bad handles and so skinny as he was his rookie season, had a quickness about him and a first step that made me think he had potential to be somebody in the league if he improved, and he had some good games in his rookie season to get excited about. Primo hasn’t shown that but he’s too young for me to condemn him, so young he could have just been in college this entire season and still be young for this draft. I don’t know that he’d be drafted any higher than he was anyways. Spurs gambled on his youth, so we need to give him time. I am glad he played, got experience, a list of things to work on, and the time to do it under the tutelage of team coaches. Next season will be more telling for me.


Go look at pictures of Primo on draft night. He looks like young Chris Rock. Then look at pictures from late in the season, and he's clearly filled out some. We will have a much better idea what Primo is made of this fall. If he's bigger/stronger and showing more confidence from having a full season under his belt, the numbers will come.

[KingKev]

I think if he wanted to leave or wanted to change teams he would have kept his stupid likes. It does make him look dumb, maybe his agent told him to unlike them. Not a fan of Lonnie and I hope he is gone. It scares me he isn’t because he did play well for that stretch. I think Spurs give him a long term deal.

Like all of us in life he probably just wants to get paid. Hopefully it isn’t us who cuts the cheque.

[SAGirl]

Go look at pictures of Primo on draft night. He looks like young Chris Rock. Then look at pictures from late in the season, and he's clearly filled out some. We will have a much better idea what Primo is made of this fall. If he's bigger/stronger and showing more confidence from having a full season under his belt, the numbers will come.
Definitely, I was disappointed with his selection initially bc I didn’t know who he was, then when I saw him he looked like a baby. I just knew he was going to need time to grow into his own. He literally looked like a high schooler. I actually wanted Pop to play him early bc he needs the experience and the team was terrible to start. If they were going to be losing games I’d rather see Primo out there than Bryn Forbes, it was that kind of situation. But I don’t think I can draw much from what we saw. He’s bigger than when he came in and has things to work on. Defensively he’s better than expected.

Next season we’ll see. I expect that he’ll be better. He’s too young to not improve if he’s working to get better. Still in an upward arc with him.

[ZeusWillJudge]

I want Lonnie back if the price is good. I think Lonnie should be given a prove it contract. His ability to score that he unlocked this year finally is really worth having on a bench.


The big issue with LWIV, bar none, is his efficiency. He had an EFG% of .480, which is serious garbage.

He took 46% of his attempts from beyond the arc. If he was afraid to jack them up, we would be complaining about that, too. But with a 3P% of .314, that's grounds for divorce.

The thing that surprised me when I looked just now is that his FGA/100 possessions is second only to DJ. Murray shoots 25.2 per 100 vs 22.7 for Lonnie. So when he's on the floor, he's settling - the whole team is settling. I don't know if a good backup PG would help that, or if he's just a black hole.

[SAGirl]

^ On another note and on topic about Lonnie, I am assuming his minutes were reduced because he has a back back. Pop was resting him to end the season and Lonnie himself said he wasn’t fully recovered before the season ended. It was something he’d have to play through. I thought he did well considering.

OTOH, he’s not a game changer and since the team is flush with draft picks, roster turnover is expected. It seems incredible to say but Bryn Forbes had a longer leash and was fed more minutes than Lonnie was. Even while Bryn was kind of a Pop favorite, Pop eventually moved on from him - twice - so I think the less preferred son (Lonnie) likely signs elsewhere but I can’t be sure.

[MannyIsGod]

The big issue with LWIV, bar none, is his efficiency. He had an EFG% of .480, which is serious garbage.

He took 46% of his attempts from beyond the arc. If he was afraid to jack them up, we would be complaining about that, too. But with a 3P% of .314, that's grounds for divorce.

The thing that surprised me when I looked just now is that his FGA/100 possessions is second only to DJ. Murray shoots 25.2 per 100 vs 22.7 for Lonnie. So when he's on the floor, he's settling - the whole team is settling. I don't know if a good backup PG would help that, or if he's just a black hole.

I'm not making an argument to keep Lonnie because I think he's good right now. I think this is what most people are missing. I'm not even making the argument that if you keep Lonnie, most times he turns out to be a good NBA player. This Spurs team likely doesn't need to worry about the cap implications of giving Lonnie a small short term contract and if they do this summer because they need that cap space for someone else then they shouldn't keep him. But my argument is that Lonnie has shown enough and has such high level athleticism that the Spurs should keep him on the significant chance - even if not likely chance - that he turns out to be a very good NBA offensive player due to his potential.

What are the Spurs giving up if they go this route? If the answer is nothing, and its very likely to be nothing, then they should do it and hope for the best. I just don't see what the opportunity cost of keeping him and hoping what he showed this season is actually real is.

[MultiTroll]

^ FOMO

[ZeusWillJudge]

I'm not making an argument to keep Lonnie because I think he's good right now. I think this is what most people are missing. I'm not even making the argument that if you keep Lonnie, most times he turns out to be a good NBA player. This Spurs team likely doesn't need to worry about the cap implications of giving Lonnie a small short term contract and if they do this summer because they need that cap space for someone else then they shouldn't keep him. But my argument is that Lonnie has shown enough and has such high level athleticism that the Spurs should keep him on the significant chance - even if not likely chance - that he turns out to be a very good NBA offensive player due to his potential.

What are the Spurs giving up if they go this route? If the answer is nothing, and its very likely to be nothing, then they should do it and hope for the best. I just don't see what the opportunity cost of keeping him and hoping what he showed this season is actually real is.


I don't disagree at all. And I definitely don't hate Lonnie. I really do think his biggest problems could be helped by coaching. Partly to get him to quit snapping off quite so many 3's, and partly just putting a better backup PG on the floor so maybe he doesn't feel like he has to. I don't think it would take much to at least get his efficiency out of the gutter.

[JeffDuncan]

... But my argument is that Lonnie has shown enough and has such high level athleticism that the Spurs should keep him on the significant chance - even if not likely chance - that he turns out to be a very good NBA offensive player due to his potential.

What are the Spurs giving up if they go this route? ...


They’re giving up a roster spot for a better player. The team would improve with a good forward in that roster spot.

And still talking about a player’s potential at the end of his fourth year is silly.

[tmtcsc]

Murray is a good combo guard……we need a dynamic point guard. I still say trade him while his stock his high.

I don't think anyone on this roster is un-tradeable. I'd move Murray in a second if it meant making this team better. You're right about his stock being high after making the All-Star team. Even though he put up good numbers, I thought his selection was nothing more than a generous gesture and probably influenced by his talent agency and PR..

[MannyIsGod]

They’re giving up a roster spot for a better player. The team would improve with a good forward in that roster spot.

And still talking about a player’s potential at the end of his fourth year is silly.


Yeah no player ever improves after their fourth year. The fact that a Spurs fan is saying this after this year is laughable.

Lots of players improve after their fourth years.

If you're going to fill out a 15 man roster with every player being better than Lonnie, then cool.

I'm not holding my breath for that to happen.

[JeffDuncan]

Yeah no player ever improves after their fourth year. …


If you’re still talking about a player’s potential after he’s been in the league four years, then you are a fool.



Lots of players improve after their fourth years.


But the word was not “improve” was it, you lying dumpwad.



If you're going to fill out a 15 man roster with every player being better than Lonnie, then cool.


How’s about one player better than Lonnie, who plays forward? Are you cool with that?

You do know that the team needs forwards, don’t you? Or is that news to you?

[T Park]

They’re giving up a roster spot for a better player. The team would improve with a good forward in that roster spot.

And still talking about a player’s potential at the end of his fourth year is silly.

Not silly at all. He was drafted at 19 and missed a lot of time his rookie year. Development of youth is never linear. Lonnie in the second half showed true growth on the offensive end. If you can bring him back in a team friendly deal IMO you do it.

[lmbebo]

Think his spot on the team just depends. THink it depends on other moves and price/years for Lonnie. Could easily see him stay or go.

[XDT76]

Sad to say no one can attack the rim like him on the team. We could offer him something like 4 yrs around 36 to 40 with the last 2 being team options. 2 years later will be the time that KJ and DJ get paid. He can be used as a spark plug. Although we have players who can play the 2/3 like DV, JR and Primo they are relatively similar to each other. Having said that I am not sorry to see him go either.

[DJR210]

Not silly at all. He was drafted at 19 and missed a lot of time his rookie year. Development of youth is never linear. Lonnie in the second half showed true growth on the offensive end. If you can bring him back in a team friendly deal IMO you do it.

Agreed. First half of the season I expected them to let him walk. He's finally got a role and the right guy mentoring him for it.

[rankingtear]

Per ESPN Stats & Information, Walker ranked just 98th in effective field goal percentage among 108 players to record 50 games played and 10 attempts per game. He had the second-highest usage rate on the team (behind Murray) but has seen his role go from a starter to reserve.

If he did not half the hot streak he would be close to the most inefficient high usage guy in the league. Forbes better.

[John B]

Per ESPN Stats & Information, Walker ranked just 98th in effective field goal percentage among 108 players to record 50 games played and 10 attempts per game. He had the second-highest usage rate on the team (behind Murray) but has seen his role go from a starter to reserve.

If he did not half the hot streak he would be close to the most inefficient high usage guy in the league. Forbes better.

I think the way Pop tried to use him as a backup facilitator in the beginning should be considered. He is not a facilitator but a SG. The emergence of Tre as the better backup facilitator, and White’s departure giving more scoring responsibilities and opportunities helped define Lonnie’s role more, and he responded with 20 points productions. I truly believe Lonnie has made that turn, plus Manu working on him, should improve him more going forward. He’s a 20 points spark plug any given night. I think that’s plenty for a 6th man. And for a 6th man price, I would be happy to watch Lonnie continue playing as a Spur.

[rankingtear]

I think the way Pop tried to use him as a backup facilitator in the beginning should be considered. He is not a facilitator but a SG. The emergence of Tre as the better backup facilitator, and White’s departure giving more scoring responsibilities and opportunities helped define Lonnie’s role more, and he responded with 20 points productions. I truly believe Lonnie has made that turn, plus Manu working on him, should improve him more going forward. He’s a 20 points spark plug any given night. I think that’s plenty for a 6th man. And for a 6th man price, I would be happy to watch Lonnie continue playing as a Spur.

Backup facilitator? that was White before Tre.

[SAGirl]

Honestly the more I think about this, the more I am convinced he’s gone, played his last game as a Spur. It’s a combination of not having developed well enough and what should be his goal, which is to get paid. Spurs obviously made him a smaller offer than he wanted when his extension was up, and he hasn’t played that much better since then. I think him and the team won’t agree on $ and he’ll get his bag elsewhere.

There’s a small chance he’s back, but it’s a less than 50% chance for me.

[mo7888]

Honestly the more I think about this, the more I am convinced he’s gone, played his last game as a Spur. It’s a combination of not having developed well enough and what should be his goal, which is to get paid. Spurs obviously made him a smaller offer than he wanted when his extension was up, and he hasn’t played that much better since then. I think him and the team won’t agree on $ and he’ll get his bag elsewhere.

There’s a small chance he’s back, but it’s a less than 50% chance for me.

I'm pretty much in that camp too... we can also use the roster spot..

[Atl Spur]

Malik Monk …… get him!

[venitian navigator]

I'm pretty much in that camp too... we can also use the roster spot..
I also think so... But that said it's painfully obvious that he is the only one on this team with a first step fast enough to create an offensive miss match... Aka, for the offense, the most important quality of a guard that's a play off player...

[The Truth #6]

Yeah, he's probably gone. The tweet issue doesn't help his cause. It's weird but probably telling that he was playing somewhat well last game and still didn't get more playing time. I get Walker's frustration. But I think Pop is more committed to other players already at this point.

[Ocotillo]

Honestly the more I think about this, the more I am convinced he’s gone, played his last game as a Spur. It’s a combination of not having developed well enough and what should be his goal, which is to get paid. Spurs obviously made him a smaller offer than he wanted when his extension was up, and he hasn’t played that much better since then. I think him and the team won’t agree on $ and he’ll get his bag elsewhere.

There’s a small chance he’s back, but it’s a less than 50% chance for me.

Yeah, it's a numbers game and with 4 draft picks (whether they are kept or not) and cap space, he is likely gone.

[talkspurs]

Murray is a good combo guard……we need a dynamic point guard. I still say trade him while his stock his high.

what would you say is a good fair return for him? the most I think we could get would be a 2 mid first. typically rebuilding teams with high draft picks dont want players even of his caliber. Dont know how much younger player we would get but he would not be as good. This is not me condemning Murray. I think he can be a number 1 player and is a lot closer then people realize. Its just people see that he is getting recognized and think we could get some huge package back for him.

[talkspurs]

Yeah no player ever improves after their fourth year. The fact that a Spurs fan is saying this after this year is laughable.

Lots of players improve after their fourth years.

If you're going to fill out a 15 man roster with every player being better than Lonnie, then cool.

I'm not holding my breath for that to happen.

He has always been inconsistent. When your best stretch is 7 games long that is not much. that was his best stretch I could find. He does not provide much beside scoring. People talk about him going off in the 2nd half of the season but it was really just 7 games. people see some plays and they like it so think he is good.
It is not always about finding players that are currently better then him. some is higher upside. some is team needs. some is already under contract and want to see what they have to offer and lonnie not produceing in time given. some is team needs. We dont have have FA this year and have 4 picks 3 first rounds. I dont get why people call a MLE contract a team friendly contract. its more then his Quallyifying offer. If we wanted to keep him we could just do that and I bet no team goes after him.

[RC_Drunkford]

Lonnie's qualifying offer is 6.3 million. That's the most I'd be willing to offer. If any team is offering 1 dollar more, I wouldn't match

[exstatic]

Lonnie's qualifying offer is 6.3 million. That's the most I'd be willing to offer. If any team is offering 1 dollar more, I wouldn't match

The problem is, his cap hold is double that, so if you have plans for your cap room besides renting it, you really need to sign him cheaply, or renounce him in like 48 hours.

[KingKev]

The problem is, his cap hold is double that, so if you have plans for your cap room besides renting it, you really need to sign him cheaply, or renounce him in like 48 hours.

Yes this point is often missed. Another reason a sign and trade is very unlikely. That cap hold is going to tie your hands in the early hours of free agency. As TIMVP noted what happens draft day will likely put the nail in the coffin but he is already laying in it as we speak. They have till June 29th to extend his QO or renounce him.

[exstatic]

Yes this point is often missed. Another reason a sign and trade is very unlikely. That cap hold is going to tie your hands in the early hours of free agency. As TIMVP noted what happens draft day will likely put the nail in the coffin but he is already laying in it as we speak. They have till June 29th to extend his QO or renounce him.

Unless we jump into the top 4 and draft Ivey, I think they’ll extend the QO. It’s kind of a doorstop to hold his rights in the short term to see if he can be a component in a trade. I don’t think anyone would trade for just him. Maybe LWIV on a cheap contract could be the enticement to take McDs contract.

[R. DeMurre]

I kinda don't buy the notion that he dramatically improved in the second half of the season. If you look at his splits-- https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/w/walkelo01/splits/2022-- it just doesn't seem to be the case. He was actually less impactful in February and March than he was in November, December, & January. I think if Walker started for a 25-57 team next year he might average 18-20 ppg, but unfortunately they'd still be a 25-57 team. I'd rather trade for Paul Reed or give a minimum contract to Jaylen Hoard and hope he becomes an average 11th/12th man on the squad, though signing Walker to a reasonable contract does also give the Spurs the ability to match salary in any potential future trades.

[Degoat]

Let him walk tbh and draft a replacement player that isn’t soft or inconsistent. I really like Branham if we could grab him with the Tor pick.

[Jordan Jackson]

Let him walk tbh and draft a replacement player that isn’t soft or inconsistent. I really like Branham if we could grab him with the Tor pick.

Yup. They can find his replacement in the draft.

Besides - Nice guy. But it appears Walker is too dumb to play Spurs basketball. Based on the play in game coaching staff looks like they’re over the Walker experience.

[RC_Drunkford]

The problem is, his cap hold is double that, so if you have plans for your cap room besides renting it, you really need to sign him cheaply, or renounce him in like 48 hours.

yeah i know but this free Agent class is weak. I don’t see the Spurs making any kind of splash, but I‘m not mad if he‘s gone

[BatManu20]

1534994455622828049

[CGD]

What do we think Lonnie’s market is, seriously?

Thinking it’s about 36/4y (Alex Caruso money last be year)

[rascal]

I expect Walker will be back and Poeltl will not be traded.

Spurs are going to roll out the same core of a team with the addition of Sochan.