Spurs needs to tank hard and target Wembanyama un 2023

[spurraider21]

Keldon, Devin, and Primo may very well eliminate any chance of this guy coming here. Do the crying now.
:lmao tbh primo is the #1 tank commander on the roster

[The Truth #6]

:lmao tbh primo is the #1 tank commander on the roster

Playing Primo could make a lot of people happy for unrelated reasons!

[Dejounte]

A series saving block to put them in the Finals vs a run of the mill block in Game 5 of the regular season :lol

You can view it that way or you can view it as Sochan showcasing his skill much earlier than Nephew did. It’s not like Gobert wanted to be blocked or put any less effort in because it was a regular season game. It’s basketball.

[offset formation]

That block by Sochan reminded me of Kawhi’s block on Westbrook. It was THE moment you knew they would be special. For me, at least.

Same. He's gonna be a player, no doubt. Imagine him being a lights out shooter...

His defense, as crazy as it is to say, will likely be better than nephs at his peak because he can guard 1-5 at a very high level.

[offset formation]

:lmao tbh primo is the #1 tank commander on the roster

And if there's any doubt left, Pop confirmed at a presser the other day that he thinks Primo is coming along as a PG. They are absolutely pigeonholing him there despite the results to date and his propensity for turning it over needlessly.

[Mr. Body]

One thing about that block -- this is what Sochan does. He's already gearing up for the contest as the ball is coming to Gobert. His anticipation is really good.

[lefty20]

And if there's any doubt left, Pop confirmed at a presser the other day that he thinks Primo is coming along as a PG. They are absolutely pigeonholing him there despite the results to date and his propensity for turning it over needlessly.

This just does not make any fucking sense. We're gonna wind up destroying any scoring potential he might've been able to tap into by forcing the issue here.

I hope to god I end up eating crow on this...

[offset formation]

This just does not make any fucking sense. We're gonna wind up destroying any scoring potential he might've been able to tap into by forcing the issue here.

I hope to god I end up eating crow on this...

I'm in the same boat man. Just don't get it at all. Think Primo has potential elsewhere but not at PG solely based on his TO propensity before I even get to his ability to regularly get to the rim. Hope the kid pulls it off.

As an aside, I wonder if they're doing this because they know they have the wing sorted out already with Johnson and Vassell.

[slick'81]

I'm in the same boat man. Just don't get it at all. Think Primo has potential elsewhere but not at PG solely based on his TO propensity before I even get to his ability to regularly get to the rim. Hope the kid pulls it off.

As an aside, I wonder if they're doing this because they know they have the wing sorted out already with Johnson and Vassell.


obviously, promo is getting minutes behind either of those two

[Atl Spur]

I don't disagree but his ceiling will be limited if the Spurs aren't able to get All-Start talent on the roster (They currently don't have a future all-star on the team IMO). And the road to drafting an all-star is historically a lot easier when you're drafting top 5.

I'm confident that Sochan will be a really, really good player in the league but the gap between him and Banchero is MASSIVE.

Is it?

[Atl Spur]

This just does not make any fucking sense. We're gonna wind up destroying any scoring potential he might've been able to tap into by forcing the issue here.

I hope to god I end up eating crow on this...

The ol’ hedge my bet move……..cute:). Give it some time pimp

[ace3g]

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABAAAAAQCAYAAAA f8/9hAAACR0lEQVQ4jX2RTUhUYRSGn 86c8c7Mzk/6oyWiZOQE1MjTUZR9LsJ2lTSomzTql3QIogWQdsIhCAoCIraRF hgYVLYJoJEyQpbmKVmpjOVaenQXJv787UwdK6Ond35OO97nvc7 goL6MJLBp6mb7j3quTs4kknE1kY4dbiJzM07uFb5 2uPHz1m6fqAP1a3oHEVGrR19NCUjO1rf9qXGB79zpGDTahCMvn iJXbeTAYbN 7JDg4NFGqUwmZ07Ac5Pe9FwonmHbQ07yQ3NMKfyWlsw8DK6Zqe zhRKnAQIMAyLbal6Lpw5jN9XijRrqTvZwnhbOwhACIfEQVBVGS AY8HLowBb8vlJAkvsyQdmG9ZR4NaRkWTkMEg01RCsDrI4GAZCm yfCN2 SnplHLw2BZywwcEbr7PuLVVEo9bmK1EYTLjae8nNx4mlCqEWnb CEVZ2cA0bWzbxrIXWSP7dyEUBa26Ctsw8NfH4OL54hEMw8QwLD q63vBt8hcA3po1lHg1bCM/v30JgbND4Ha76Ov/xNVbzzBMC1Gi8P7SFV6fPsfPt/2M33/4P4PFan/yigePe3GHwwQScfT0V5AgbXvlP1jgEAJ9Ls/la50YtmRvvAGXV6PYHZcQLA4IIZjJ5mi93smgrqBFKpBFzlgkg kT 26QIwWxWp7v/M0JV59 XQDgi7N4epyJcNlEdDZrZ33MuRQhMy8ZUPQQ3J/PuQFk6lEo64xY2s9kcmqaGup6/Ozs2MZWSgLQl8XVRtlb7etVwqFXxqDNuv39B8xeTAdkjdOvDhg AAAABJRU5ErkJggg==NBA.com
NBA App to stream all LNB games with top Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama for free
The French star and top 2023 NBA Draft prospect plays for Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 in the French top league. All Wembanyama games...


(https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=newssearch&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiavZHVuIH7AhXpkWoFHT2tCw0QxfQBKAB6BAgJE AE&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nba.com%2Fnews%2Fnba-app-to-stream-wembanyama-games&usg=AOvVaw1KIz3cWdzjId-HLEMsPg9u)

[lefty20]

The ol’ hedge my bet move……..cute:). Give it some time pimp

Of course... you never go full retard, tbh.

[Mugen]

Is it?

Definitely tbh. Every early return shows you can build around Banchero while Sochan's ceiling is very likely elite role player a la Draymond.

[offset formation]

The ol’ hedge my bet move……..cute:). Give it some time pimp

Lol. It's far from a hedge or hypocrisy as you lobbed my way earlier. It's very clearly saying we don't think he will succeed at PG. AND in the event he does, we'd be wrong.

Pop and the coaching staff see something many on this board don't. Primo obviously has some skills but they are not, at least to date, being showcased as the point. The primary reason is because turnovers like he commits are a function of processing the court and the movement of the players in a proficient manner. That typically is a skill that has shown itself in a player's repertoire by this point in a player's development. It's really not a teachable skill. You either have that ability to process or you don't.

That's the only thing that makes me question wtf Pop is doing here.

And again I question if they are doing this because they feel like Primo is inferior to thecwings they already had, so they'd be critiqued for taking a second stringer at the 11 spot.

[RC_Drunkford]

We Spurs fans are like gamblers that hit it big once, and now can't function in the real world

We won the lottery and got the Admiral.

We tanked (once!) and got Timmy.

Now, like that addicted gambler, instead of getting a real job, we're borrowing money to let it ride again on the wheel! Or at least that's what most want on here.

Chances even if we tried to tank we'd be in the bottom 4? Maybe 50/50.

Chance then to get Wembanyama 14%

Chances he becomes a superstar - maybe 30% (which is probably a high estimate, no matter how good he looks).

Chances he stays with the spurs longterm? Who knows....

Chances he leads us to a championship....Small

When you look at the math, tanking ain't worth it. Better to acrue assets and hope you develop a mid-lottery player into a star.

well if you count Scoot, the chances of getting him or Wembenyama would be 27.4%. And that doesn't count the players who come after them, which are a couple who could also be franchise players.

[CGD]

well if you count Scoot, the chances of getting him or Wembenyama would be 27.4%. And that doesn't count the players who come after them, which are a couple who could also be franchise players.

Agree. It does fee like the spurs had the 2023 draft circled for some time and wanted to clear the decks for it.

[Atl Spur]

Of course... you never go full retard, tbh.

True indeed! Well played…..

[Atl Spur]

Lol. It's far from a hedge or hypocrisy as you lobbed my way earlier. It's very clearly saying we don't think he will succeed at PG. AND in the event he does, we'd be wrong.

Pop and the coaching staff see something many on this board don't. Primo obviously has some skills but they are not, at least to date, being showcased as the point. The primary reason is because turnovers like he commits are a function of processing the court and the movement of the players in a proficient manner. That typically is a skill that has shown itself in a player's repertoire by this point in a player's development. It's really not a teachable skill. You either have that ability to process or you don't.

That's the only thing that makes me question wtf Pop is doing here.

And again I question if they are doing this because they feel like Primo is inferior to thecwings they already had, so they'd be critiqued for taking a second stringer at the 11 spot.

I was actually responding to lefty big man������

[Ice009]

A series saving block to put them in the Finals vs a run of the mill block in Game 5 of the regular season :lol

Yeah, I was thinking the magnitude of the moment was just a little bit different. Kawhi's play was gigantic due to it being a contributing play that helped get us to the finals. having said that, I've wanted to see defense return to the Spurs for a long, long time and Sochan is playing great on that end of the court for a rookie that's only played 5 games. Really excites me for his defense alone so far.


https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABAAAAAQCAYAAAA f8/9hAAACR0lEQVQ4jX2RTUhUYRSGn 86c8c7Mzk/6oyWiZOQE1MjTUZR9LsJ2lTSomzTql3QIogWQdsIhCAoCIraRF hgYVLYJoJEyQpbmKVmpjOVaenQXJv787UwdK6Ond35OO97nvc7 goL6MJLBp6mb7j3quTs4kknE1kY4dbiJzM07uFb5 2uPHz1m6fqAP1a3oHEVGrR19NCUjO1rf9qXGB79zpGDTahCMvn iJXbeTAYbN 7JDg4NFGqUwmZ07Ac5Pe9FwonmHbQ07yQ3NMKfyWlsw8DK6Zqe zhRKnAQIMAyLbal6Lpw5jN9XijRrqTvZwnhbOwhACIfEQVBVGS AY8HLowBb8vlJAkvsyQdmG9ZR4NaRkWTkMEg01RCsDrI4GAZCm yfCN2 SnplHLw2BZywwcEbr7PuLVVEo9bmK1EYTLjae8nNx4mlCqEWnb CEVZ2cA0bWzbxrIXWSP7dyEUBa26Ctsw8NfH4OL54hEMw8QwLD q63vBt8hcA3po1lHg1bCM/v30JgbND4Ha76Ov/xNVbzzBMC1Gi8P7SFV6fPsfPt/2M33/4P4PFan/yigePe3GHwwQScfT0V5AgbXvlP1jgEAJ9Ls/la50YtmRvvAGXV6PYHZcQLA4IIZjJ5mi93smgrqBFKpBFzlgkg kT 26QIwWxWp7v/M0JV59 XQDgi7N4epyJcNlEdDZrZ33MuRQhMy8ZUPQQ3J/PuQFk6lEo64xY2s9kcmqaGup6/Ozs2MZWSgLQl8XVRtlb7etVwqFXxqDNuv39B8xeTAdkjdOvDhg AAAABJRU5ErkJggg==NBA.com
NBA App to stream all LNB games with top Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama for free
The French star and top 2023 NBA Draft prospect plays for Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 in the French top league. All Wembanyama games...


(https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=newssearch&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiavZHVuIH7AhXpkWoFHT2tCw0QxfQBKAB6BAgJE AE&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nba.com%2Fnews%2Fnba-app-to-stream-wembanyama-games&usg=AOvVaw1KIz3cWdzjId-HLEMsPg9u)

What is the NBA app? Is this the same as the NBA League Pass app?

[offset formation]

I was actually responding to lefty big man������

Right, I know you were in the comment I responded to here but earlier in this thread you made a comment, without quoting me, right below mine about hypocrisy as I recall...Not even an ounce of it, Holmes. I'm consistent and readily available for critique if you can find it. I'll often say my bad, my mistake, or you're right when counterfactuals arise. Example: Relating to the thread about us not tanking, I just said I needed to apologize to that OP for thinking he was wrong. Clearly there's no intent on tanking nor will we be able to do so based on out talent level being higher than expected. Your contention seems to be that because it's clear that we'll be better than many people AND VEGAS thought, that it takes away from our stated desire to tank?

1. We are and remain on a fast track to mediocrity -- whether we win 28 or 38 games, pretty much right where we've been without a dynamic or at least go to dominant scorer. Though I suppose it could also be achieved by having at least three 20+ pt scorers and a couple others in the mid to high teens. At best we have 2 of those guys now with Sochan potentially becoming a third.
2. The only difference now is that instead of maybe picking in the top 2 or 3, it's likely we are in the late lottery now.
3. I said I reserve the right to change my opinion on how many games we'd win or generally how competitive the Spurs could be until we saw the impact of Sochan -- remember that we hadn't seen him at all since his last college game.
4. Sochan and his defensive ability, ability to get out in transition and general basketball IQ have and will make this team better.
5. Even with Sochan, we are maxed out at marginal play-in for the forseeable future.
6. Given the above, we should still be trying to lose as many games as possible by trading away our skilled vets (Poeltl, Richardson, and McBucket) and playing our rooks like Branham 20-25 MPG.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Of course... you never go full retard, tbh.

Unless your screen name is Ducks.

[Atl Spur]

Right, I know you were in the comment I responded to here but earlier in this thread you made a comment, without quoting me, right below mine about hypocrisy as I recall...Not even an ounce of it, Holmes. I'm consistent and readily available for critique if you can find it. I'll often say my bad, my mistake, or you're right when counterfactuals arise. Example: Relating to the thread about us not tanking, I just said I needed to apologize to that OP for thinking he was wrong. Clearly there's no intent on tanking nor will we be able to do so based on out talent level being higher than expected. Your contention seems to be that because it's clear that we'll be better than many people AND VEGAS thought, that it takes away from our stated desire to tank?

1. We are and remain on a fast track to mediocrity -- whether we win 28 or 38 games, pretty much right where we've been without a dynamic or at least go to dominant scorer. Though I suppose it could also be achieved by having at least three 20+ pt scorers and a couple others in the mid to high teens. At best we have 2 of those guys now with Sochan potentially becoming a third.
2. The only difference now is that instead of maybe picking in the top 2 or 3, it's likely we are in the late lottery now.
3. I said I reserve the right to change my opinion on how many games we'd win or generally how competitive the Spurs could be until we saw the impact of Sochan -- remember that we hadn't seen him at all since his last college game.
4. Sochan and his defensive ability, ability to get out in transition and general basketball IQ have and will make this team better.
5. Even with Sochan, we are maxed out at marginal play-in for the forseeable future.
6. Given the above, we should still be trying to lose as many games as possible by trading away our skilled vets (Poeltl, Richardson, and McBucket) and playing our rooks like Branham 20-25 MPG.

Solid position����

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1586433709703659521

https://twitter.com/Eurohoopsnet/status/1586431742365167616

[Chomag]

Our tank tracks are falling off bois!

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhZT9WsNF3g

[Ariel]

Bye Wemby... bye Scoot... :cry:depressed

[CGD]

Kid is sick

[SpurPadre]

What if the team has reason to believe Silver will punish them for the Primo thing and strip them of their 1st round pick and that's why they're not trying to tank now, winning these games they normally shouldn't be trying to win?

[offset formation]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhZT9WsNF3g

You don't have to rub it in Ace

[Seventyniner]

Don't look now, but the Thunder/Pacers/Jazz all won tonight, over playoff teams and perhaps darkhorse contenders (Mavs/Nets/Grizz).

Are these teams dumb for not losing on purpose?

[spurs1990]

Don't look now, but the Thunder/Pacers/Jazz all won tonight, over playoff teams and perhaps darkhorse contenders (Mavs/Nets/Grizz).

Are these teams dumb for not losing on purpose?

It's like the good teams want our fellow tankers to get some W's and have to earn the ticket to Wembayana.

All three games are unbelievable on their own. For all three to happen on the same night is astonishly unexpected.
And Hornets looked like butt their last game and end up punking Golden State. A great night in the association!

[Thomas82]

What if the team has reason to believe Silver will punish them for the Primo thing and strip them of their 1st round pick and that's why they're not trying to tank now, winning these games they normally shouldn't be trying to win?

I don't see how the team could be punished when Primo did that on his own.

[Mr. Body]

Wembanyama looks like he's going to get hurt exactly like Chet Holmgren got hurt.

[Ice009]

What if the team has reason to believe Silver will punish them for the Primo thing and strip them of their 1st round pick and that's why they're not trying to tank now, winning these games they normally shouldn't be trying to win?

How in the hell can they take a away a draft pick? What are you on about. Primo did whatever he did, not the Spurs. The Spurs lost/wasted a draft pick in 2021 because of Primo. Why in the f$@* should the NBA take one away?

[weebo]

Spurs need to tank hard like they tanked for TD.

[offset formation]

How in the hell can they take a away a draft pick? What are you on about. Primo did whatever he did, not the Spurs. The Spurs lost/wasted a draft pick in 2021 because of Primo. Why in the f$@* should the NBA take one away?

It's what the NFL did to the Texans in the aftermath of the DeShaun Watson matter when it was clear the organization had been notified of complaints of sexual requests by him.

They paid out millions, in addition to Watson, to settle with multiple women. They were also bsnned from last year's draft in 2021.

If it ever becomes clear there was knowledge of prior allegations at the organizational level and they failed to act, one could easily see Silver pulling a future pick or two from us.

[BackHome]

The league didn’t do anything with the Flakers when Kobe went back door on that girl

[Chomag]

Seriously, can the Spurs just call up their entire G league team to play in their place for the rest of the season because this team ain't tanking for shi..!

[BillMc]

League is going to be screwed when the Lakers have to give New Orleans the number 1 pick, and NO can pair Wemb with Zion.

[Dejounte]

League is going to be screwed when the Lakers have to give New Orleans the number 1 pick, and NO can pair Wemb with Zion.

Wemb with Zion will be the top 10 of all time duo…


in games missed due to injury

[scott]

What prospects should we be following for pick 29?

[offset formation]

What prospects should we be following for pick 29?

No shit. Our bench is surprisingly VERY DEEP. Collins and Richardson and McBucket abd KBD and Dieng and Langford are all quite skilled at something. The rooks, at least to date, look perfectly at home and not out of their league. To me, in addition to Sochan, the bench is the reason this team is not going to come even close to Wembanyama. Hell they might not make the lottery which I would have almost put my life on before the season. Truly astounding turn of events. And all probably not a positive thing for this franchise at the end of the day.

[RC_Drunkford]

No way we are getting a top 3 pick

[xellos88330]

I am not sold on Wembenyama for one reason alone. Really tall players always have injury problems that severely limit their careers. I mean look at Chet. That is what worries me about tanking to get only a 14% shot at getting such a player.

[offset formation]

I am not sold on Wembenyama for one reason alone. Really tall players always have injury problems that severely limit their careers. I mean look at Chet. That is what worries me about tanking to get only a 14% shot at getting such a player.

Not always. The #1 scorer in League history and Victor Wembanyama are both 7'2" And Wembanyama scores way more on his outside jumpshot than Kareem ever did.

He's generational. It's pure stupidity not to try for him, especially if you probably could with a couple of trades and rotation choices. This team is most probably not winning championships anytime soon without a player like him.

[Jordan Jackson]

The guy is a generational talent - you can try to spin it anyway you want.

It’s not just the Pelicans. Clippers and Thunder also have a pick swap. Kawhi is doing his weird “it hurts I can’t play” shtick again - Thunder might be on their way to getting a great pick.

[Mr. Body]

I am not sold on Wembenyama for one reason alone. Really tall players always have injury problems that severely limit their careers. I mean look at Chet. That is what worries me about tanking to get only a 14% shot at getting such a player.

Pretty much. He's already had slight issues. We saw how a basic bump from a muscular player put Holmgren out for the season.

[Ariel]

Wembanyama might be injury prone by virtue of his height and build, but his frame is larger than Chet's which could indicate he'll be able to put on at least some muscle, and a smart team could protect him from more physical matchups, manage his minutes. His skill level is jaw dropping and he's very comfortable on the perimeter, so even if there is an increased risk, it's still a worthy gamble. And if not, trade to no. 2 and pick up a lot of assets plus Scoot, who is another phenomenal prospect in his own right.
I remember how when our draft position was slipping last year people managed to tag the 2022 draft class as weak, which seemed ridiculous to me because I saw a very deep class with a lot of interesting prospects even down the board... well, it seems as our hopes of landing a top pick next year are dwindling, the same scenario is playing out again but now with the 2023 draft class... Downplaying the top prospects in the upcoming class reeks of sour grapes. Let's not be that obvious.

[playbonner15]

More excited on Scoot playing with Keldon, Devin, and Sochan tbh.... plus WannaWanna with Zion's gonna be somethin to watch. Win-win for the teams and the league tbh. Silver's not gonna let Wanna2x fall to the Spurs........ the team's playing well and cant even fill 50% of the arena

[offset formation]

The guy is a generational talent - you can try to spin it anyway you want.

It’s not just the Pelicans. Clippers and Thunder also have a pick swap. Kawhi is doing his weird “it hurts I can’t play” shtick again - Thunder might be on their way to getting a great pick.

I cant wait to see the clipper fan base turn on neph. I almost, note I said almost, feel bad for Balmer throwing that kind of money at neph only to get fucked by neph's relentless scam.

[SpurPadre]

I'm like that owner in the movie Major League. Why won't this team fucking lose?!

[Ice009]

It's what the NFL did to the Texans in the aftermath of the DeShaun Watson matter when it was clear the organization had been notified of complaints of sexual requests by him.

They paid out millions, in addition to Watson, to settle with multiple women. They were also bsnned from last year's draft in 2021.

If it ever becomes clear there was knowledge of prior allegations at the organizational level and they failed to act, one could easily see Silver pulling a future pick or two from us.

I don't follow the NFL much these days at all, so thanks for the explanation. I really hope something like that doesn't happen. I don't give a shit about what happens to Primo (I want to smash this kid to shreds if I could get hold of him), I just don't want it affecting the team. He's fucked the team over in so many ways. I hope he also didn't drag other players into it too. Freaking loser/scum of the highest order.

[offset formation]

I'm like that owner in the movie Major League. Why won't this team fucking lose?!

Are you trying to say Jesus Christ cant hit a curveball?

Ha classic movie.

[xellos88330]

Not always. The #1 scorer in League history and Victor Wembanyama are both 7'2" And Wembanyama scores way more on his outside jumpshot than Kareem ever did.

He's generational. It's pure stupidity not to try for him, especially if you probably could with a couple of trades and rotation choices. This team is most probably not winning championships anytime soon without a player like him.

Greg Oden was also supposed to be generational. I don't think the comparison with Wilt is fair. The game was different back then. Wilt didn't have to do much perimeter work offensively or defensively. This eras game is much different and requires a lot of stop and go movement to get a good clean shot off, while at the same time being able to guard the perimeter against fast guards on the regular. I do not deny that this kid is every bit as good as everyone says he is. If we do get him, will he be able to play in most of the games? Will he last through the playoffs? There are just too many unknowns that tie around his ability to stay healthy. I read somewhere that he had already had foot surgery. Sure the Spurs would have a generational talent, but that isn't worth him only being able to play in 40 games a season like AD.

[offset formation]

Greg Oden was also supposed to be generational. I don't think the comparison with Wilt is fair. The game was different back then. Wilt didn't have to do much perimeter work offensively or defensively. This eras game is much different and requires a lot of stop and go movement to get a good clean shot off, while at the same time being able to guard the perimeter against fast guards on the regular. I do not deny that this kid is every bit as good as everyone says he is. If we do get him, will he be able to play in most of the games? Will he last through the playoffs? There are just too many unknowns that tie around his ability to stay healthy. I read somewhere that he had already had foot surgery. Sure the Spurs would have a generational talent, but that isn't worth him only being able to play in 40 games a season like AD.

Kareem not Wilt. Greg Oden was supposed to be really good, but never a LeBron or Michael, i.e. generational talent.

He's worth the risk compared to being stuck in a cycle of mediocrity.

[Thomas82]

Kareem not Wilt. Greg Oden was supposed to be really good, but never a LeBron or Michael, i.e. generational talent.

He's worth the risk compared to being stuck in a cycle of mediocrity.

Exactly!! There are exceptions to every rule, and this is a chance you have to take. A couple of weeks ago, an anonymous GM said that he would still draft Victor with the 1st pick even if Victor broke both of his legs.

[BackHome]

If not him then Scott or Amen Thompson I think could be All Star players.

[slick'81]

Houston and orlando leading the way early

[mystargtr34]

Orlando looks like they could turn it around and win a few games because Banchero and Wagner are both really good.

Houston on the other hands looks like an absolute dumpster fire. A bunch of low IQ chuckers. There’s going to be some punches thrown soon along that group I rekon.

[Vince Carter's ankle]

Thank God, now we can safely continue the fight for the playoffs.
San Antonio won't get the first pick and Victor won't come.

[Rocalcio]

30 points (his new record in French championship) 12 rebonds with 7 minutes left in the game.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Orlando looks like they could turn it around and win a few games because Banchero and Wagner are both really good.

Houston on the other hands looks like an absolute dumpster fire. A bunch of low IQ chuckers. There’s going to be some punches thrown soon along that group I rekon.

Houston doesn't deserve the number 1 pick. Nice thing is that the Spurs could finish with the 4th worst record and still have a decent shot at the #1 pick. Not sure they'll fall that far, but I doubt this group makes the playoffs unless everyone stays healthy throughout the season. One loss to the core group and this team loses a lot.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1588643819620212736

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d3QDZbeEYo

[Mugen]

I legitimately feel bad for whomever ends up getting the #1 pick tbh. The kid is such a unicorn that you literally cannot pass on him unless he suffers a significant career altering injury pre-draft. No GM would ever survive if they had the #1 pick and they passed on a "healthy" Wemby...

But there's just no way a guy his size doesn't suffer a ton of injuries during his career tbh.

[Mugen]

Also, everybody realizes that the Primo stuff 100% guarantees the Spurs don't get the #1 pick, right? :lol

[RC_Drunkford]

I legitimately feel bad for whomever ends up getting the #1 pick tbh. The kid is such a unicorn that you literally cannot pass on him unless he suffers a significant career altering injury pre-draft. No GM would ever survive if they had the #1 pick and they passed on a "healthy" Wemby...

But there's just no way a guy his size doesn't suffer a ton of injuries during his career tbh.

there's also no way a team that gets this guy doesn't ring tbh

[Mugen]

there's also no way a team that gets this guy doesn't ring tbh

Eh, depends on where he ends up tbh.

[Rocalcio]

30 points (his new record in French championship) 12 rebonds with 7 minutes left in the game.

He finishes with 33pts, 12rbds, 4assists and 3 blocks.

[mo7888]

there's also no way a team that gets this guy doesn't ring tbh

The Kings say "hold my beer'....

[thiste]

He finishes with 33pts, 12rbds, 4assists and 3blocks.
...in 40 minutes.

[exstatic]

The relegation stuff is stupid.

Just give all non-playoff teams equal 1/8 chance to win the lottery.

Or make a mini play-in for the bottom 8 teams to fight for higher lottery odds lol.


This is really the best solution. I think it was like this at some point but it got changed I don't know why. They need to go back to it, tbh.

Maths are hard. An equal shot for all non playoff teams would be 1/14th, not 1/8th.

[DAF86]

Maths are hard. An equal shot for all non playoff teams would be 1/14th, not 1/8th.

What does that have to do with the comment I made?

[Ariel]

I legitimately feel bad for whomever ends up getting the #1 pick tbh. The kid is such a unicorn that you literally cannot pass on him unless he suffers a significant career altering injury pre-draft. No GM would ever survive if they had the #1 pick and they passed on a "healthy" Wemby...

But there's just no way a guy his size doesn't suffer a ton of injuries during his career tbh.
He'll be injury prone, but if there's one thing that can maximize his talents is the Spurs. With some smart load management he's the difference between perennial 2nd round of the playoffs and a dynasty. Can't pass on that.

[Rocalcio]

...in 40 minutes.Yep, that's the format of game in the French championship. You're right that's even more impressive, knowing that he played 35 minutes, not 40...

[Rocalcio]

Stop saying he's injury prone, you have no proof of that. He's really bulking this season and he didn't have the slightest injury so far this season.

[Ariel]

Wemby to the Pelicans, courtesy of the Lakers.

[BackHome]

Stop saying he's injury prone, you have no proof of that. He's really bulking this season and he didn't have the slightest injury so far this season.

June 2022 - Ruled out of finals with Psoas injury - Kind of like a Hip Flexor

Dec 2021 - Out two months with a shoulder contusion

Nov 2021 - Out two months with a fractured finger

Dec 2020 - Out from Dec 2020 to March 2021 with a stress fracture to his fibula

[RC_Drunkford]

June 2022 - Ruled out of finals with Psoas injury - Kind of like a Hip Flexor

Dec 2021 - Out two months with a shoulder contusion

Nov 2021 - Out two months with a fractured finger

Dec 2020 - Out from Dec 2020 to March 2021 with a stress fracture to his fibula

how can he be out in November for 2 months and than be out 1 month later for 2 months again? :lmao

[Rocalcio]

how can he be out in November for 2 months and than be out 1 month later for 2 months again? :lmao

Yep, I don’t know where he found this…

[slick'81]

No way this spurs team finishes in the bottom 5 without ping pong luck or serious injury

[Rocalcio]

First game with the national team for Wemby, World Cup Qualifying against Lithuania, live now.

[Rocalcio]

First game with the national team for Wemby, World Cup Qualifying against Lithuania, live now.

Best scorer at the half with 12pts (43-33 for France). I don’t have the rebounds but I saw him grabbing at least 4.

[Ariel]

https://twitter.com/AravantinosDA/status/1591145502846111744

Victor Wembanyama in his first game with the Men's French National Team: 20 points 6/13 FG 1/2 3FG 7/7 FT 9 rebounds 1 assist 1 steal 1 turnover 23 minutes France blew out Lithuania in the World Cup Qualifiers.
Bye :depressed

[emanueldavidginobili]

1591158318416146432

Glad he got up fine. His right leg bent crazy lol

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwr9HmSfCrE

[slick'81]

Enjoy Houston

[thiste]

There's a decent chance Wemby wins DPOY his first season in the NBA. He's such a defensive threat, not only his blocks but he alters the entire offensive strategy of the opponent. Everyone hesitates to attack the paint due to his mere presence. He may not block everything, but he's gonna block or alter a good number of them.

Never seen anything like it.

[Chomag]

If Lakers stay sucking as much as they are now he maybe going to the Pelicans.

That team is going to be disgustingly good if that happens

Just when you think that you can't hate the Lakers more..

[RC_Drunkford]

one thing about the Lakers is they didn't have Thomas Bryant and Dennis Schröder play for them yet. That should improve them quite a bit. They are probably their 3rd and 4th best players.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEcIO6rU6F8

[mystargtr34]

After tonight’s loss there will only be 5 teams with worse records than the Spurs.

Rockets
Lakers
Pistons
Hornets
Magic

[tbdog]

After tonight’s loss there will only be 5 teams with worse records than the Spurs.

Rockets
Lakers
Pistons
Hornets
Magic

I think Magic, Hornets, and Lakers will start making some noise. I think Magic might even get close to a play in look with the hornets.

[mystargtr34]

I think Magic, Hornets, and Lakers will start making some noise. I think Magic might even get close to a play in look with the hornets.

Agree. Rockets and Pistons are almost locks to finish bottom 2.

Also, in terms of the teams with the same or similar record as the Spurs. Teams like OKC and Sacramento both trending upwards. Both will finish with better records than the Spurs.

Spurs have a pretty good line of sight to a bottom 5 record by seasons end without being absolutely terrible. Win win really.

[tim_duncan_fan]

I was on #DontTank but after last night, perhaps that was foolish hubris.

[BackHome]

Agree. Rockets and Pistons are almost locks to finish bottom 2.

Also, in terms of the teams with the same or similar record as the Spurs. Teams like OKC and Sacramento both trending upwards. Both will finish with better records than the Spurs.

Spurs have a pretty good line of sight to a bottom 5 record by seasons end without being absolutely terrible. Win win really.

Pistons have so much talent they should no way be in bottom 5 - Houston ain't even trying to look like they want to win they ALL in on the tank. I hope Karma bites them on the ass and who ever they pick up ends up sucking or injury prone

[mikec]

With Lamelo Ball back in the lineup and looking good, I thought Charlotte would start to win and be respectable. He reinjured his left ankle last night. Definitely add them as candidates to the tank list with Houston, Orlando and Detroit.

[itzsoweezee]

Pistons have so much talent they should no way be in bottom 5 - Houston ain't even trying to look like they want to win they ALL in on the tank. I hope Karma bites them on the ass and who ever they pick up ends up sucking or injury prone

Detroit has been missing many of their vets to start the season. I think Detroit and Orlando will get better as the season goes along.

[B1gduff]

Hot take, I love Victor and think he has a monstrous upside but I prefer Henderson. Victor's thin frame worries me. I think it'll be an adjustment for him. While Henderson seem like he has the ideal body shape for a starting PG and has the upside of a prime John Wall, Derrick Rose or even Prime Russel Westbrook.

[RC_Drunkford]

Hot take, I love Victor and think he has a monstrous upside but I prefer Henderson. Victor's thin frame worries me. I think it'll be an adjustment for him. While Henderson seem like he has the ideal body shape for a starting PG and has the upside of a prime John Wall, Derrick Rose or even Prime Russel Westbrook.

You are right. All those guys turned out pretty well and won a lot of titles...

[Rocalcio]

You are right. All those guys turned out pretty well and won a lot of titles...

:lol:lol

[R. DeMurre]

I don't know if Derrick Rose and John Wall are good counter examples for the Wemby-will-always-be-injured-because-he's-thin debate...

[exstatic]

Hot take, I love Victor and think he has a monstrous upside but I prefer Henderson. Victor's thin frame worries me. I think it'll be an adjustment for him. While Henderson seem like he has the ideal body shape for a starting PG and has the upside of a prime John Wall, Derrick Rose or even Prime Russel Westbrook. I hate all of those players. None are franchise guys. I'd also prefer a Euro who might, you know, actually STAY in San Antonio. Victor's frame is also not really an issue. Go back and look at Giannis or even our own Devin Vassell as rookies. Sticks. You can add weight over your first two years or so.

[ambchang]

If wemby can stay healthy in the rough and tumble European leagues, he’d be fine in :lol todays ultra soft nba.

[Dejounte]

It isn’t Victor’s frame that correlates with his ability to stay healthy, it’s his height. Players over 7’2 have hardly stayed injury free. Like ever.

[R. DeMurre]

Shawn Bradley had seven seasons where he played 82, 82, 81, 79, 77, 77, and 73 games.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bradlsh01.html

[Ariel]

It isn’t Victor’s frame that correlates with his ability to stay healthy, it’s his height. Players over 7’2 have hardly stayed injury free. Like ever.

https://www.gannett-cdn.com/authoring/2017/05/04/NFDD/ghows-FD-4dec8d23-c3ef-3c38-e053-0100007f8127-2cde7895.jpeg

[ambchang]

It isn’t Victor’s frame that correlates with his ability to stay healthy, it’s his height. Players over 7’2 have hardly stayed injury free. Like ever.

Mark eaton and manute bol stayed relatively healthy over their careers. There was that 7’3” guy who played for the wolves a bit that was relatively healthy. But point taken. Yao Ming, gheorge muresan, rik smits and Ralph Sampson all suffered.

[Dejounte]

https://www.gannett-cdn.com/authoring/2017/05/04/NFDD/ghows-FD-4dec8d23-c3ef-3c38-e053-0100007f8127-2cde7895.jpeg

https://i.ibb.co/R0Kx9zj/EDF0-C97-F-649-B-4-E74-B80-C-B71362-F7-A8-D7.png

[Dejounte]

https://i.ibb.co/r4zxw24/D9821810-09-DB-467-F-9539-0188533-D6245.png

[Dejounte]

Out of the 55 total players who are 7’2 or taller in the history of the NBA…

only 11 players played eight seasons worth of games (650 games)

That means only 20% of these excessively tall players have a real worthwhile NBA career

that number becomes much worse if I filter it by Wemba’s height (is it 7’5” now?) and find similar players that way.

And all 11 of those players played in an era with much slower pace meaning less pressure on their joints.

To make matters worse - out of all 55 of those 7’2” and over players, only one became a superstar.

[R. DeMurre]

The average NBA career is about 4.5 to 5 years across the entire spectrum of height in the league, so saying that the random sample of taller players didn't play eight seasons doesn't mean anything. A selection of players of any height aren't going to play an average of eight years.


Average careers for players with…

Height of 7 feet or more = 5.78 seasons.
Height from 6-7 to 6-11 = 5.43 seasons.
Height from 6-3 to 6-6 = 4.51 seasons.
Height 6-2 or below = 4.12 seasons.

https://weaksideawareness.wordpress.com/2011/11/22/average-nba-career-length-for-players-details/#:~:text=Height%20of%207%20feet%20or,2%20or%20belo w%20%3D%204.12%20seasons.

[Dejounte]

Eight seasons is about the length of which Murray was a Spur so think about how short-lived that was. Five seasons is about a rookie contract and a half. There’s a better way for filtering this, such as if we look at non journey men/ non busts only, and I can do it when I’m not doing all this on my phone. It’s obvious any data that reports the average length of career that’s shown in your list is misrepresentative of the argument at hand. One reason being is that it includes 7 footers to 7’1”, which I didn’t argue against having long careers. Givony has reported two days ago that Wemba is at 7’4” now. Another reason the list is misrepresentative is the volume of players at each group. Third, like I mentioned earlier, it’s taking into account players who weren’t good enough for the NBA.


I don’t question how good Wemba will be in the league. In fact, I would take him at #1. But people drinking the koolaid can’t ignore the likelihood of a injury-prone career reality when it comes to excessively tall players like Wemba.

[Ariel]

Out of the 55 total players who are 7’2 or taller in the history of the NBA…

only 11 players played eight seasons worth of games (650 games)

That means only 20% of these excessively tall players have a real worthwhile NBA career

that number becomes much worse if I filter it by Wemba’s height (is it 7’5” now?) and find similar players that way.

And all 11 of those players played in an era with much slower pace meaning less pressure on their joints.

To make matters worse - out of all 55 of those 7’2” and over players, only one became a superstar.
You said "it isn’t Victor’s frame that correlates with his ability to stay healthy, it’s his height. Players over 7’2 have hardly stayed injury free. Like ever."
When one of the best ever was among the most durable as well, that proves it CAN be done. But now you want to make it about career success, disregarding
a) that the same argument can be make for players of any height
b) being above a certain height is the one trait more likely to get you to the NBA by itself (without any other obvious success predicting trait or skill)
So yeah... considering how small the sample of people that tall is, and how unlikely having a long NBA career is in general, coming up with a short list of successful players of such height is an extremely underwhelming fact to support your stance, especially when we're talking about a player whose talent gap compared to just about anyone in your list is ABYSMAL... except the guy you seemed to be forgetting.

[Ariel]

I don’t question how good Wemba will be in the league. In fact, I would take him at #1. But people drinking the koolaid can’t ignore the likelihood of a injury-prone career reality when it comes to excessively tall players like Wemba.
"drinking the koolaid"? people aren't ignoring that there's a significant risk of him dealing with injuries, but going from that to the notion that he's somehow doomed to bust out as a result of injuries is an entirely different claim, particularly when that's also related to other factors that can be influenced, like load management, playing style, etc. Can it happen? Sure... it also happened to 6'3" Derrick Rose at 23...

[thiste]

With a player of Wembanyama's caliber, a 5 year career would be a huge disappointment. Like was said earlier the pool of comparable players is too small to make statistics though. you'd need to look at not only the NBA but maybe add the various European leagues in history to add more players that big and see if the trend is the same over there.

Also, I know for a fact that Victor goes through very rigorous training focusing specifically on balance and stretching, which probably none of those other bigs ever went through. He's giving himself every chance to succeed. That's also part of the reason why he's so much more "gracious" than all of them ever were.

[Drom John]

As a pre-NBA Spurs fan, I'd bump up my avatar to 1329 games.

[Drom John]

Two counters to arguments above:
1) Some tall players don't have longer careers because they aren't good basketball players. Wembanyama is a good basketball player.
2) Wembanyama already had injuries. Without data, I believe previous injury history is more predictive than height.

[rascal]

Have to take VW if they land the first pick.

Then if they don't want him they can swap him for the 2nd pick + other assets and take Scoot Henderson.

[Mnky]

Out of the 55 total players who are 7’2 or taller in the history of the NBA…

only 11 players played eight seasons worth of games (650 games)

That means only 20% of these excessively tall players have a real worthwhile NBA career

that number becomes much worse if I filter it by Wemba’s height (is it 7’5” now?) and find similar players that way.

And all 11 of those players played in an era with much slower pace meaning less pressure on their joints.

To make matters worse - out of all 55 of those 7’2” and over players, only one became a superstar.

This is why I'm not mad at the idea of scoot at all. I'm just not sold on Wembys sustainability. I feel Scoot would have the Prime time appeal as well. He's also where the spurs are the weakest at right now with sochan, vassell, and keldon making up the core.

I don't see why people are so quick to want to get rid of Poetl either. He said he wants to be around and go through the rebuild with the team. He wants to stay a Spur and he gives you what everyone hopes drafting someone like duren would give you. He's already a great role player for the young guys with minimal ego. He's perfect support for a rebuild.

Would love to roll the dice on wemby but Scoot really looks like a great fit in SA. He's the alpha go to crunch time player every team needs in the position the spurs need the most.

But outside of those two, the top forwards look like they can be very special. A top 5 pick will be great this year.

[exstatic]

This is why I'm not mad at the idea of scoot at all. I'm just not sold on Wembys sustainability. I feel Scoot would have the Prime time appeal as well. He's also where the spurs are the weakest at right now with sochan, vassell, and keldon making up the core.

I don't see why people are so quick to want to get rid of Poetl either. He said he wants to be around and go through the rebuild with the team. He wants to stay a Spur and he gives you what everyone hopes drafting someone like duren would give you. He's already a great role player for the young guys with minimal ego. He's perfect support for a rebuild.

Would love to roll the dice on wemby but Scoot really looks like a great fit in SA. He's the alpha go to crunch time player every team needs in the position the spurs need the most.

But outside of those two, the top forwards look like they can be very special. A top 5 pick will be great this year.

The thing that worries me about Scoot is that he’s an American who came up thru the AAU system, and will likely bolt for a big market at the first oppo. What good is it if his hypothetical longer career is spent somewhere else?

[Dejounte]

"drinking the koolaid"? people aren't ignoring that there's a significant risk of him dealing with injuries, but going from that to the notion that he's somehow doomed to bust out as a result of injuries is an entirely different claim, particularly when that's also related to other factors that can be influenced, like load management, playing style, etc. Can it happen? Sure... it also happened to 6'3" Derrick Rose at 23...

Using "somehow doomed" is disingenuous at best when there's proof being provided. Let me be clear that it was my mistake that there happened to be ONE guy out of 55 that didn't have an underwhelming career.

But here is drinking the koolaid for you:

1) Pointing out only ONE player as a reference to Wemba possibly being OK for his career is ignoring the odds, which you acknowledged that there is a significant risk of him dealing with injuries (your own words)
2) Falsely claiming that there's a talent gap between Wemba and the guys I listed from my list. I'm not going to go through the entire 55 players, but from the first several that I clicked: a 4th overall pick, a 1st overall pick, a 2nd overall pick, a 2nd overall pick, a 4th overall pick, a 1st overall pick, a 2nd overall pick. Just because we know how they turned out doesn't mean they weren't viewed as talented players when they were first drafted. And it's incredibly presumptive to say that Wemba will have a better career than them when he hasn't stepped on the NBA court. Greg Oden was hailed as the next great thing until he wasn't.
3) Stating that height gets you more likely into the NBA is a trivial statement and not sure relates to the current discussion (which is reiterated again below) so you may want to elaborate on this further. Being too tall isn't some abstract idea. There is such a thing as being too tall for NBA basketball as there is being too short to play NBA basketball. A 9 footer doesn't mean you're going to be the best at basketball. There are drawbacks to being too tall.

The argument at hand is that OVER 7'2" = Career is significantly likely to be derailed by injury (which you said word for word you agree with). My focus is on the odds.

And for the sake of the argument, here is Wemba's injury history:
1) Stress fracture in fibula
2) fractured finger
3) psoas injury (a "very rare condition" that causes back pain)

Let me repeat: I would draft Wemba with the #1 pick given these concerns. I simply disagree with the notion that once he's drafted, simply taking preventative measures will make him the second ever most durable player in that height range. The concerns will be there from the beginning of his career to the end, and that's because you can't disregard history that is known with players this tall.

[Dejounte]

And y'all are acting like I'm taking some unpopular stance about this. There are many who absolutely feel the same way, hence the phrase "drinking the koolaid" for those who think otherwise on the subject.


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

[exstatic]

And y'all are acting like I'm taking some unpopular stance about this. There are many who absolutely feel the same way, hence the phrase "drinking the koolaid" for those who think otherwise on the subject.


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

Drinking the kool aid is actually the opposite of that. It’s going with the crowd, the consensus. In Jonestown, there were over 900 who drank the cyanide laced koolaid, and only like 10:who escaped into the jungle.

[JPB]

It isn’t Victor’s frame that correlates with his ability to stay healthy, it’s his height. Players over 7’2 have hardly stayed injury free. Like ever.

We have never seen a guy like Wembanyama, like ever... who could do step back 3s, fadeway turnaround jumpers, one leg 3s, and handle the ball like a PG with so much grace or fluidity at 7'4...

So any comparison with former big stiffs is pointless reagarding his size... the kid has visibly a special, different body... And like Giannis said, 30 years from now that'll be your random NBA player.

[Mnky]

The thing that worries me about Scoot is that he’s an American who came up thru the AAU system, and will likely bolt for a big market at the first oppo. What good is it if his hypothetical longer career is spent somewhere else?

That's always a concern though, no matter the culture if we were being honest. The spurs seem to be trending the right direction in that regards with putting the youth first finally. I think Scoot has the ability to have a Morant type atmosphere to his following. Most of the time, it isn't the star that wants to leave SA when they get here. The Kawhi thing was a pretty special circumstance that has spread to the bigger markets he went to as we all know, and the front office handled it very poorly. I believe they've learned from it to a point and revenue is a key factor in the path of a program. I'm sure they're missing that winning program revenue.

Money has a way of changing things and scoot has money written all over him. I'd be less worried about that at this point but nothing is certain. Just Like wembys health.

[Rocalcio]

30 points, 9 rebounds and 5 blocks for him this evening in French Championship.

[slick'81]

Trade poodles now

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6YatDc9Lak

[-21-]

he looks so unreal its crazy

[T Park]

It’s frustrating that to get the guy its going to take pure dumb luck.

[BackHome]

And hopefully Silver and ESPN stay out of the draft process wink wink

[BatManu20]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

[slick'81]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

without an injury or jakob trade- you are right

[itzsoweezee]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

Only Houston is clearly worse

[tbdog]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

I still think Hornets will pick things up. Ball has been out and I think he was set for a break out year.

[BillMc]

So a miserable season for 14% chance to get him.

Say, cut that in half to 7% he becomes an All Star or better player.

Cut that in half again to 3.5% he'll stay with the team or lead us to a chip.

Um. Yay?

:wtf

Not into tanking....sorry.

[BatManu20]

I still think Hornets will pick things up. Ball has been out and I think he was set for a break out year.

He doesn’t have much help. Getting rid of Bridges was a huge loss for them. Bad timing for us tbh.

[NameLess Scrub]

Been saying Wemby will be injury prone when he starts getting bumped around in the NBA with that height and frame.

Also wonder what position he’ll play. 7’4” PG?

[John B]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

We are getting blown 20plus by 3rd worst record. Yup Spurs will get there :lol

Funny thing is we’re getting the loses that posters cried for years, but they don’t want them embarrassed :lmao

[DesignatedT]

No matter how hard we tank, we’ll never be as bad as Houston, Detroit, or Charlotte tbh.

Doesn't really matter right? Don't the bottom 4 teams all have the same odds for the #1 pick regardless of record.

[Rocalcio]

Been saying Wemby will be injury prone when he starts getting bumped around in the NBA with that height and frame.

Also wonder what position he’ll play. 7’4” PG?

It has been said many times that he’s working on his body this season, bulking it. So he’s doing everything he can to be strong enough. But all in all if he get injured that can also happen to anyone, it’s not just about frame, but a lot about luck.

[The Truth #6]

With super tall guys I think foot problems are the most concerning. But typically super tall guys are also very heavy, and being skinny usually helps so…hard to say for me.

[mo7888]

I'm not worried about injury with Wembanyama more than I would be with any other big. I could see him playing the PF next to Jak for a year or two while he develops physically. There's really no debate for whoever gets #1.... after 1 there's plenty to debate..

[exstatic]

So a miserable season for 14% chance to get him.

Say, cut that in half to 7% he becomes an All Star or better player.

Cut that in half again to 3.5% he'll stay with the team or lead us to a chip.

Um. Yay?

:wtf

Not into tanking....sorry.

Wemby is going to break the league. He’s going to be a NBA sea change along the lines of Curry. The best analogy I’ve seen is the love child of KG and Giannis. 14% chance of our 3rd HOF big man, and multiple chips. He’s the real deal. Multiple outlets say he’s a better draft prospect than LeBron was in 2003. I’m never team tank…except this year.

[LeBowen]

Wemby is going to break the league. He’s going to be a NBA sea change along the lines of Curry. The best analogy I’ve seen is the love child of KG and Giannis. 14% chance of our 3rd HOF big man, and multiple chips. He’s the real deal. Multiple outlets say he’s a better draft prospect than LeBron was in 2003. I’m never team tank…except this year.

Yeah, as others said, the only concern is if he can stay healthy.
If he does, guaranteed parennial all-star at the very least.

I'm also usually against tanking, two best players in the league were 15th pick and a second rounder, respectively, but it's not like we had any choice this season.

Hope to get lucky, draft best player available in any case and start using some of the cap space we have next summer. Noone expects a contending roster overnight, but tanking for many years just builds losing culture which is really hard to shake off.

[slick'81]

Dude is a 7'4 durant for fck sakes

[Ice009]

Yeah, as others said, the only concern is if he can stay healthy.
If he does, guaranteed parennial all-star at the very least.

I'm also usually against tanking, two best players in the league were 15th pick and a second rounder, respectively, but it's not like we had any choice this season.

Hope to get lucky, draft best player available in any case and start using some of the cap space we have next summer. Noone expects a contending roster overnight, but tanking for many years just builds losing culture which is really hard to shake off.

Who is the other player you're saying is the best picked at number 15? I'm guessing Giannis, Jokic are two of the three you're referring to. I'd normally say Kawhi, but he hasn't proven he's back yet.

Also, I don't really believe in tanking as I don't believe the Spurs intentionally tanked in '96/'97 season. They were decimated by injury that season and tried as hard as they could with the players they had. I thought this team started the year playing hard nosed basketball, but after these past couple of weeks, that '96-'97 team played a lot harder IMO (especially on defense). I also don't remember consistently huge blowouts either (I might be wrong as I was really young, so someone will have to refresh my memory on that). Having said that, maybe the rules being different (heavily favouring offense) contributes more to the blowouts these days as the '96/'97 team was allowed to play tougher defense, so maybe I shouldn't be too hard on the current team's defense.

[Uriel]

Doesn't really matter right? Don't the bottom 4 teams all have the same odds for the #1 pick regardless of record.
Yup. We only need to finish bottom 4.

[DAF86]

So a miserable season for 14% chance to get him.

Say, cut that in half to 7% he becomes an All Star or better player.

Cut that in half again to 3.5% he'll stay with the team or lead us to a chip.

Um. Yay?

:wtf

Not into tanking....sorry.

Have you seen the team the last 10 games or so? What are you into? :lol

[Vince Carter's ankle]

Wemby is going to break the league. He’s going to be a NBA sea change along the lines of Curry. The best analogy I’ve seen is the love child of KG and Giannis. 14% chance of our 3rd HOF big man, and multiple chips. He’s the real deal. Multiple outlets say he’s a better draft prospect than LeBron was in 2003. I’m never team tank…except this year.
What will be the next step if the Spurs get only the fifth or even seventh pick in the draft?

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

What will be the next step if the Spurs get only the fifth or even seventh pick in the draft?

Be bad again, just like every other rebuilding team in history. It's also possible, while unlikely, you strike gold with a pick like this too - there are some very good players who could be available in the 5-7 range - Brandon Miller, Keyonte George, Nick Smith, etc.

[exstatic]

Doesn't really matter right? Don't the bottom 4 teams all have the same odds for the #1 pick regardless of record.

Not quite
1 14.0%
2 14.0%
3 14.0%
4 12.5%

[exstatic]

Be bad again, just like every other rebuilding team in history. It's also possible, while unlikely, you strike gold with a pick like this too - there are some very good players who could be available in the 5-7 range - Brandon Miller, Keyonte George, Nick Smith, etc.

I can’t see them being a Houston or a Detroit. We’ll be at the nine years and counting down to the expiration of the arena deal. We need to be a decent playoff team, not necessarily a contender, by the time a vote comes up for a new arena.

[lmbebo]

"the Lakers reportedly made a solid trade offer to them, only to get rejected." ..."solid". :rollin

[Ariel]

Open question: say we end up with the #1 pick, and we're set to land Wemby. Are there any scenarios under which you'd be willing to give up the pick? Or would you keep it no matter what? For me, say Orlando has #2 and they offer a swap and throw in Banchero, Would you consider that? I would.

[MannyIsGod]

No. If they get the #1 then they won't trade it for anything and shouldn't.

[Atl Spur]

Open question: say we end up with the #1 pick, and we're set to land Wemby. Are there any scenarios under which you'd be willing to give up the pick? Or would you keep it no matter what? For me, say Orlando has #2 and they offer a swap and throw in Banchero, Would you consider that? I would.

With no hesitation…

[Rocalcio]

Wemby is considered the best prospect since James, if not the best prospect ever, there is no way you trade his ass.

[Ariel]

Wemby is considered the best prospect since James, if not the best prospect ever, there is no way you trade his ass.
I'm aboard the Wemby bandwagon, but I think it'd be interesting to see just how far it goes, because some crazy proposals are going to be on the table if we land no. 1. For the record, I don't think the FO would trade his rights for practically anything, but for something like that (Banchero + Scoot + maybe something else) you'd have to at least listen.

[emanueldavidginobili]

ClY1-yEOOJ9
Worst net, offense and defense :lol. Tank is looking good tbh.

[spursparker9]

CIA Pop at work. Tanking but others will thought Spurs are not tanking due to the early strong start left an impression.

[Bill_Brasky]

Spurs getting the #1 pick would bring this forum back from the dead imo

[R. DeMurre]

ClY1-yEOOJ9
Worst net, offense and defense :lol. Tank is looking good tbh.

This chart makes me happy-- I put $100 on New Orleans at the beginning of the year at +4000 odds. They're still a long shot at this point, but it sure makes the regular season more interesting.

[exstatic]

Open question: say we end up with the #1 pick, and we're set to land Wemby. Are there any scenarios under which you'd be willing to give up the pick? Or would you keep it no matter what? For me, say Orlando has #2 and they offer a swap and throw in Banchero, Would you consider that? I would.

That’s a Duncan level NO.

[Vince Carter's ankle]

Spurs getting the #1 pick would bring this forum back from the dead imo
"If you can't support us when we lose or draw, don't support us when we win."

[Ariel]

That’s a Duncan level NO.
That's the most comparable case, yes. But Boston's offer was #3 + #6 for #1 (Duncan), the scenario I was talking about was something ridiculous... Banchero (#1) + Scoot (could be #1 in lots of drafts) wouldn't be anything to scoff at. More than anything, I'm anticipating the crazy offers whomever lands #1 will get for Wemby... and I don't think it's a binary answer... at some point, if someone is crazy enough to offer anything, you have to think about it... I'm just trying to figure out where that line lies.

[jjspur]

Open question: say we end up with the #1 pick, and we're set to land Wemby. Are there any scenarios under which you'd be willing to give up the pick? Or would you keep it no matter what? For me, say Orlando has #2 and they offer a swap and throw in Banchero, Would you consider that? I would.

Tall skinny guys like Wemby scare me a bit especially with so many of them having injury problems. I'd trade him for like 5 future picks (all non protected) and a decent player or two, whomever bids the absolute highest. It could be one of the biggest NBA trades ever.

There is a history of #1 picks bolting for greener pastures, and in this case we' could still have a pick or two before he left. I know that sounds a bit of a pessimistic , but I'm just looking at history. In today's NBA, top players and even not so great players want absolute top money and I'm just not sure the spurs would be willing to pay a player many many millions per season after his first contract ends. Again this the modern NBA we're talking about.

Who knows what will happen but we have to be real bad and get real lucky first.

[KobesAchilles]

If you can get Banchero AND the #2 pick to use on Scoot then you have to make that deal. It really sets our roster going forward. We have our PG of the future, PF of the future, jak at C along with KJ and Vassell to round out our wings. That’s a very good team going forward. Add in some solid vets and that is a championship contender.

I love everything about Victor and his game except that he is 7’4. He’s just gonna get injured. It’s what people his size end up doing.

[mo7888]

That's the most comparable case, yes. But Boston's offer was #3 + #6 for #1 (Duncan), the scenario I was talking about was something ridiculous... Banchero (#1) + Scoot (could be #1 in lots of drafts) wouldn't be anything to scoff at. More than anything, I'm anticipating the crazy offers whomever lands #1 will get for Wemby... and I don't think it's a binary answer... at some point, if someone is crazy enough to offer anything, you have to think about it... I'm just trying to figure out where that line lies.

I don't take that deal...If we landed the #2 pick and Orlando has #3 or #4 I'd trade our #2 (Scoot) for Banchero and there pick but there's nobody I'd trade Wembanyama for.

[scott]

Legit question... is this kid done growing? There has been a lot of speculation as to his ability to stay healthy at his current height and frame... but he is still a teenager. I'd be even more concerned if he has like 3 more inches of growth in him.

[scott]

Wemby for Scoot + Banchero + an assortment of unprotected future picks and you have a deal.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Wemby for Scoot + Banchero + an assortment of unprotected future picks and you have a deal.

With Orlando’s ability to screw things up you’d have to really consider that.

[rascal]

Open question: say we end up with the #1 pick, and we're set to land Wemby. Are there any scenarios under which you'd be willing to give up the pick? Or would you keep it no matter what? For me, say Orlando has #2 and they offer a swap and throw in Banchero, Would you consider that? I would.

Scoot and Banchero is a solid upgrade to the roster.

[exstatic]

We’re #4! OK, tied for 4th.

[exstatic]

The Spurs aren’t tanking for Banchero, or Banchero and Scoot. They’re tanking for a generational player.

[spurs1990]

Orlando choked but Houston and Charlotte came through. Detroit is hanging in there with Phoenix.

Top 3 seed is so close.

Btw DeJounte was on fire tonight. 8 total 3pters and 39 pts.

[Rocalcio]

30 points, 15 rebounds, 3 assists 2 steals and 2 blocks tonight.

[ace3g]

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

[Dejounte]

Would be nice to see his team play more frequently. One game a week vs one game every three days if he played in NCAA.

[JPB]

Would be nice to see his team play more frequently. One game a week vs one game every three days if he played in NCAA.

That's also why he signed with them. Time to work on his game and developing his body while reducing risks of injuries...

There are of few international qualifying games he's been and will play too, throughout the year.

[Sugus]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6YatDc9Lak

That move at 0:47. Holy shit.

There's a big step between Scoot and Wemby. No way I'm trading down from #1 if we do get it.

I'd much rather bank on the generational superstar-level prospect staying healthy enough to put that talent on the court, than hoping a star-level player manages to develop his game such that he exceeds his potential level tenfold.

[exstatic]

That move at 0:47. Holy shit.

There's a big step between Scoot and Wemby. No way I'm trading down from #1 if we do get it.

I'd much rather bank on the generational superstar-level prospect staying healthy enough to put that talent on the court, than hoping a star-level player manages to develop his game such that he exceeds his potential level tenfold.

If this draft were a Marathon race, he’d be at mile 20, and Scoot is at mile 2, with everyone else between mile 1 and 2. His skill set combined with his measurements is just ridiculous.

[Vince Carter's ankle]

That move at 0:47. Holy shit.

There's a big step between Scoot and Wemby. No way I'm trading down from #1 if we do get it.

I'd much rather bank on the generational superstar-level prospect staying healthy enough to put that talent on the court, than hoping a star-level player manages to develop his game such that he exceeds his potential level tenfold.
Great addition to Cade and Ivey.

[DAF86]

If we don't get #1, would you trade away all of our future draft picks for that #1? Would any team accept that trade?

[BacktoBasics]

If we don't get #1, would you trade away all of our future draft picks for that #1? Would any team accept that trade?

I would absolutely offer that trade and no team in their right mind would take it.

[Ice009]

If we don't get #1, would you trade away all of our future draft picks for that #1? Would any team accept that trade?

No ones going to take it. Not sure if you were a fan back then of the Spurs, but the Spurs from what I remember never considered any trades for the number 1 pick in 1997 (I read they got a ton of offers. I think it was even said they wouldn't even trade that pick for Michael Jordan - Obviously due to his age and career being towards the end), so I wouldn't expect anyone to do so this time around either.

[NickiRasgo]

I'm not usually buying rigging the NBA Draft Lottery but if they do, hope they "give" it to Spurs. I know I'll be biased but currently bottom Top-5, here are the teams:

Pistons
Magic
Rockets
Spurs
Hornets

Outside the Spurs, the other 4 teams had atleast Top-5 picks recently:

Pistons - #1 (2021 - Cunningham), #5 (2022 - Ivey)
Magic - #1 (2022 - Banchero), #5 (2021 - Suggs)
Rockets - #2 (2021 - Green), $3 (2022 - Smith)
Hornets - #3 (2020 - Ball)

I know the draft doesn't work that way by excluding them getting another #1 pick and a team can win back-to-back but just pointing out.

[Rocalcio]

No ones going to take it. Not sure if you were a fan back then of the Spurs, but the Spurs from what I remember never considered any trades for the number 1 pick in 1997 (I read they got a ton of offers. I think it was even said they wouldn't even trade that pick for Michael Jordan - Obviously due to his age and career being towards the end), so I wouldn't expect anyone to do so this time around either.

I heard about the Jordan thing too, it would have been funny to see him traded like that, you can bet the guy would have been quite upset

[Brazil]

So a miserable season for 14% chance to get him.

Say, cut that in half to 7% he becomes an All Star or better player.

Cut that in half again to 3.5% he'll stay with the team or lead us to a chip.

Um. Yay?

:wtf

Not into tanking....sorry.

now do the math of getting a chip without him for a small market team like SA

[Brazil]

Would be nice to see his team play more frequently. One game a week vs one game every three days if he played in NCAA.

not playing too much is actually the point... probably the smartest decision he made so far

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4Fvs-OIb30

[scott]

I'm not usually buying rigging the NBA Draft Lottery but if they do, hope they "give" it to Spurs. I know I'll be biased but currently bottom Top-5, here are the teams:

Pistons
Magic
Rockets
Spurs
Hornets

Outside the Spurs, the other 4 teams had atleast Top-5 picks recently:

Pistons - #1 (2021 - Cunningham), #5 (2022 - Ivey)
Magic - #1 (2022 - Banchero), #5 (2021 - Suggs)
Rockets - #2 (2021 - Green), $3 (2022 - Smith)
Hornets - #3 (2020 - Ball)

I know the draft doesn't work that way by excluding them getting another #1 pick and a team can win back-to-back but just pointing out.

This is the NBA’s biggest problem going into this draft, IMO. Hornets I’m not sure deserve to be included in this group considering they just got some bad luck and I wouldn’t classify as tanking, but if the Magic, Rockets, Pistons and Thunder end up in the top 5 again (along with the Spurs) then there is going to be a clear issue with blatant tanking paying off.

There was a thread last year with some good ideas of how to discourage tanking… I like the idea of your natural odds being reduced based on the number of times you’ve recently had a top 4 pick. Say the top 6 end up Magic, Rockets, Pistons, Thunder, Hornets and Spurs (in any order) - then there is a clear cut case that only the Spurs and Hornets have not be serial tankers, and the Spurs clearly have the absolute best case for being given the highest preference.

Of course, there is a zero percent chance owners agree to make any substantive changes mid-season, but I can see some calls for serious lottery reform if one of these perma-tankers lands Wemby (or to a lesser extent, Scoot)

[TD 21]

Certain national media types are so scared of the Spurs getting him that in the rare times they're mentioned, the word "tanking" has to immediately be attached as if they've invented it and there haven't been far more egregious examples that conveniently went unmentioned.

It's as if they're trying to preemptively discredit anything they may go on to do once they get whatever blue chip prospect they'll inevitably get at some point.

[Rocalcio]

32 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 blocks last night. Scores in the French league aren’t as high as in the NBA, so getting 4 games in a row with 30 points or more is pretty amazing.

[DPG21920]

Be bad again, just like every other rebuilding team in history. It's also possible, while unlikely, you strike gold with a pick like this too - there are some very good players who could be available in the 5-7 range - Brandon Miller, Keyonte George, Nick Smith, etc.

And SA doesnt have to be bad again…you land a stud with whatever pick you get (not a given, just saying if) and SA has tons of picks and cap space to trade for said upgrades.

Like CLE with Mitchell, you first need a good young core then it makes sense to trade for that all star type if you can. SA is in a good spot to get good relatively soon IF they draft well and Keldon/Vassell/Sochan keep developing.

[DPG21920]

Great addition to Cade and Ivey.

If SA does not get him thats where I hope he lands. DET is building very well and has a fun team. They deserve a great player too IMO

[John B]

If SA does not get him thats where I hope he lands. DET is building very well and has a fun team. They deserve a great player too IMO

Fuck Detroit with Cade and recently Ivey and Duren and still blatantly tanking at top 2? The league should really investigate the likes of Rockets, Magic, Pistons, Thunder who have had great picks, #1 even, and still tanking hard.

[DPG21920]

Fuck Detroit with Cade and recently Ivey and Duren and still blatantly tanking at top 2? The league should really investigate the likes of Rockets, Magic, Pistons, Thunder who have had great picks, #1 even, and still tanking hard.

Cade got injured. Young teams, even with good talent, can go through a lot of growing pains. Thunder have so many come back wins. What do you mean?

[Vince Carter's ankle]

Fuck Detroit with Cade and recently Ivey and Duren and still blatantly tanking at top 2? The league should really investigate the likes of Rockets, Magic, Pistons, Thunder who have had great picks, #1 even, and still tanking hard.
How do you propose to punish teams for tanking?

[Ariel]

How do you propose to punish teams for tanking?
You can devise a system where you gain chances in reverse order of your record (as it is now), but also you lose chances by recent picks. This could be done by establishing a penalty composed of the value per pick times a coefficient related to the time elapsed, going to zero after, say, 5 years or so. That way, you reward the worst teams, but not perennial tanking, as you're effectively putting a cap on how many chances any given team is awarded in a certain time frame.

[John B]

Cade got injured. Young teams, even with good talent, can go through a lot of growing pains. Thunder have so many come back wins. What do you mean?

You gonna have to be gullible to expect, for example OKC to be that bad with SGA posting MVP numbers. As somebody posted the lowest 5 teams have had top #1 picks, multiple top 5 picks and still posting worst records. Come on man

[mo7888]

You gonna have to be gullible to expect, for example OKC to be that bad with SGA posting MVP numbers. As somebody posted the lowest 5 teams have had top #1 picks, multiple top 5 picks and still posting worst records. Come on man

Nah...SGA is an empty calorie stat filler...he doesn't move the needle very much... they'll trade him as soon as some desperate GM throws the brings truck at em..

[spurraider21]

With super tall guys I think foot problems are the most concerning. But typically super tall guys are also very heavy, and being skinny usually helps so…hard to say for me.
being heavy does put a strain. guys like shaq/yao always had foot problems. but being more guard-like and perimeter-oriented also puts your knees/ankles in compromised positions more frequently

[Seventyniner]

This is the NBA’s biggest problem going into this draft, IMO. Hornets I’m not sure deserve to be included in this group considering they just got some bad luck and I wouldn’t classify as tanking, but if the Magic, Rockets, Pistons and Thunder end up in the top 5 again (along with the Spurs) then there is going to be a clear issue with blatant tanking paying off.

There was a thread last year with some good ideas of how to discourage tanking… I like the idea of your natural odds being reduced based on the number of times you’ve recently had a top 4 pick. Say the top 6 end up Magic, Rockets, Pistons, Thunder, Hornets and Spurs (in any order) - then there is a clear cut case that only the Spurs and Hornets have not be serial tankers, and the Spurs clearly have the absolute best case for being given the highest preference.

Of course, there is a zero percent chance owners agree to make any substantive changes mid-season, but I can see some calls for serious lottery reform if one of these perma-tankers lands Wemby (or to a lesser extent, Scoot)

I do like the idea of punishing serial tanking offenders. Maybe something as simple as saying that if you pick in the top 4 one year, you cannot get a top 4 pick the next year or even maybe either of the next two years. Could even extend that to top 5 or top 6.

Something more subtle, and probably more fair, would be to say that if a team picks #1 then the next year they can't get a top 4 pick, the year after they can't get a top 3 pick, etc. The team picking #2 can't get a top 3 pick the next year, top 2 the following year, and so on.

These wouldn't stop the practice of tanking, but they could stop the same teams from doing it year after year.

And if a bad team is trying to win and just keeps losing? Too damn bad.

[JPB]

You can devise a system where you gain chances in reverse order of your record (as it is now), but also you lose chances by recent picks. This could be done by establishing a penalty composed of the value per pick times a coefficient related to the time elapsed, going to zero after, say, 5 years or so. That way, you reward the worst teams, but not perennial tanking, as you're effectively putting a cap on how many chances any given team is awarded in a certain time frame.

I'm honestly surprised that doesn't alreay exist... Makes sense to me that your previous picks should enter into the algorythm as far as your next chances are, if you really want to even things and homogenize teams quality... These permatanking teams are a disgrace to the NBA and their fans....

I can't imagine spurs sucking like that for 3 years... I'm gone before.

[slick'81]

Only pistons and orlando have more losses

[BackHome]

The Spurs aren’t tanking for Banchero, or Banchero and Scoot. They’re tanking for a generational player.

I get what your saying but ''Banchero" was killing the league until he got hurt as he was only the 7th NBA player in NBA history to score 20+ points in consecutive games. Definitely numbers you want if your drafting the number one pick it's almost night and day between him and the 2nd pick in the draft "Smith"....

[BackHome]

Tankathon has us in second place - The Tank Looks Good

[MultiTroll]

Call me crazy but for Wama's 1st regular season should he play no more then 50 games?

If I'm GM of the team that gets him, that's what we do.

Everyone else can F Off.

Going from playing 2 games a week to 5-6 and 82 total can be brutal on any player, no matter how genetically blessed, macho / how many steroids they take.

[exstatic]

Tankathon has us in second place - The Tank Looks Good

We’re still 3rd. Maybe you did a sim and forgot to reset?

[BackHome]

Dang I think your right still in 3rd

[exstatic]

Dang I think your right still in 3rd

Kind of academic, though. Slots one, two, or three each have a 14% chance at #1, and are all basically interchangeable.

[dbestpro]

Top 3 baby is all you need.

[scott]

Call me crazy but for Wama's 1st regular season should he play no more then 50 games?

If I'm GM of the team that gets him, that's what we do.

Everyone else can F Off.

Going from playing 2 games a week to 5-6 and 82 total can be brutal on any player, no matter how genetically blessed, macho / how many steroids they take.

Victor gonna dominate for the Austin Spurs.

[exstatic]

Victor gonna dominate for the Austin Spurs.

It looks like Metropolitans 92, currently at 9-1, is headed for Euroleague play this year. If Wemby comes even close to his French A league numbers, he’ll never spend a day in Austin. He’s gotten his slow development over there, already, starting in French A at 16, like Parker did.

[Spursfanfromafar]

Saw a Metro 92 game that was telecasted live. Wemby looks and plays like a taller Durant with better defense. Of course, the opposition is not that great shakes. But boy, he is a unicorn's unicorn.

[NickiRasgo]

This is the NBA’s biggest problem going into this draft, IMO. Hornets I’m not sure deserve to be included in this group considering they just got some bad luck and I wouldn’t classify as tanking, but if the Magic, Rockets, Pistons and Thunder end up in the top 5 again (along with the Spurs) then there is going to be a clear issue with blatant tanking paying off.

There was a thread last year with some good ideas of how to discourage tanking… I like the idea of your natural odds being reduced based on the number of times you’ve recently had a top 4 pick. Say the top 6 end up Magic, Rockets, Pistons, Thunder, Hornets and Spurs (in any order) - then there is a clear cut case that only the Spurs and Hornets have not be serial tankers, and the Spurs clearly have the absolute best case for being given the highest preference.

Of course, there is a zero percent chance owners agree to make any substantive changes mid-season, but I can see some calls for serious lottery reform if one of these perma-tankers lands Wemby (or to a lesser extent, Scoot)

I was about to say that only Hornets and Spurs are the "deserving" but quite hypocrite because the Spurs had like 3 lottery picks for the last 3 years. :lol
Agree that unlikely they'll change it midseason and the only reason we're ranting about it is because it affects us. :lol But to be fair, it's normal to be a bit desperate.
But damn, took 25 years again before having a discussion something like this again.

[jjspur]

How do you propose to punish teams for tanking?
We know that teams say 8 - 14 in the draft order aren't really trying to tank, they just don't have a lot of talent or have injuries. Its certain teams 1 - 7 in the draft order that are usually tanking usually for a couple of years in a row.

How do you fix this ?

Any team that is in position 1 -7 more than two years in a row gets bumped down to position 8 or lower if its more than one team, and what ever team or teams is in position 8 or higher gets moved into the top 7. All that tanking only to be bumped down. Now that's an incentive to win even just a few more games. For example, Houston after 2 top 5 picks in a row would no longer be able to have a top 7 pick. They could still tank just not get the benefits of a top 7 pick any more.

After 2 years in a row of getting a top draft pick a team should be better or else you get bumped to a lower pick. Losing your draft position is enough incentive to try to win a bit more rather than lose all season long. Losing intentionally is not fair to the fans or the players.

[thiste]

There's a sequence in his last game that I'd like to point out because it's not very obvious in the NBA highlights posted earlier.

It's at the beginning of this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uI-xee_l-Ww

A guard is trying to steal the ball from him but fails, then Wemby gets surrounded by 3 defenders and he handles the ball so well to get out of it. What comes next I'll let you see for yourself.
In every game he has like 3/4 WTF moments like this. Just can't wrap my head around it... it's incredible.

[mystargtr34]

Pistons win tonight against the Heat. Up to 7 wins.

Spurs with sole possession of the second worst record. Only the Magic are worse. If they can get Banchero, Carter, Wagner and Suggs healthy for a stretch of 20 games then the Magic can win 8-10 games in that stretch and move clear of the Spurs in wins.

Pistons and Rockets both have good young talent and they can win some games if they stay healthy.

[Thomas82]

Pistons win tonight against the Heat. Up to 7 wins.

Spurs with sole possession of the second worst record. Only the Magic are worse. If they can get Banchero, Carter, Wagner and Suggs healthy for a stretch of 20 games then the Magic can win 8-10 games in that stretch and move clear of the Spurs in wins.

Pistons and Rockets both have good young talent and they can win some games if they stay healthy.

The Pistons play the Pelicans tomorrow, so hopefully they can steal another one. The Magic play the Clippers.

[Rocalcio]

Saw a Metro 92 game that was telecasted live. Wemby looks and plays like a taller Durant with better defense. Of course, the opposition is not that great shakes. But boy, he is a unicorn's unicorn.

The French Championship is known for being more physical and with stronger defenses than the NBA.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVEMmjsmQi8

[thiste]

26 pts 18 rbds.

[paperboy77]

I guess the rodeo road trip will have to do the trick. Spurs management are fucking idiots for letting this iteration of our beloved Spurs come even close to winning. What... K Johnson and Vassell are going to lead us to the promise land in any universe? We need a real, legit talent to do that. Only way we're gonna do that is thru THIS years draft. :vomit:

[slick'81]

Still in top 4

[offset formation]

Still in top 4

Not good enough. What kind of idiocy does it show to drop into the 4 spot when even that little percentage bump of not getting the #1 pick could cost you potentially the next Michael Jordan or LeBron James. Hell, even if he's only the next Dirk Nowitzky, it's sheer egotistical incompetence to let yourself fall into that 4 spot.

[Proxy]

It’s going to be okay…

[MultiTroll]

Going for Wama?
It's just not who i am.
https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/Screen-Shot-2019-05-27-at-32305-PM-dd498b9b3fcde42d5ca0e74c80e9ae1b.jpg

[MultiTroll]

Detroit pounding Orlando.

Either way we gain a game.

[KingKev]

When PATFO inevitably win 5-8 meaningless games against tanking teams down the stretch I’ll be routing for Lakers losses.

If we can’t get Wemby I hope the Pels can. Wemby/Zion duo would dominate the league for years to come.

[exstatic]

When PATFO inevitably win 5-8 meaningless games against tanking trams down the stretch I’ll be routing for Lakers losses.

If we can’t get Wemby I hope the Pels can. Wemby/Zion duo would dominate the league for years to come.

Since the aberration 5-2 start, the Spurs are 6-21. If you use that % as a measuring stick, the Spurs will finish with 22 wins. Does it really look like Pop is trying to win the maximum games possible to you? Because that would be what it would take for this group to even sniff the play in, and there’s really no other reason to not tank.

Even last year, once we had locked the WC 10 spot and the play in, Pop shut it down so that we wouldn’t drop from the #9 draft spot.

[KingKev]

Since the aberration 5-2 start, the Spurs are 6-21. If you use that % as a measuring stick, the Spurs will finish with 22 wins. Does it really look like Pop is trying to win the maximum games possible to you? Because that would be what it would take for this group to even sniff the play in, and there’s really no other reason to not tank.

Even last year, once we had locked the WC 10 spot and the play in, Pop shut it down so that we wouldn’t drop from the #9 draft spot.

The tank is going to be extremely competitive come March. I don’t think Pop will have it in him to play the tank game with if a play-in spot is in reach. He’ll be too tempted.

I hope you are correct though ex

[exstatic]

The tank is going to be extremely competitive come March. I don’t think Pop will have it in him to play the tank game with if a play-in spot is in reach. He’ll be too tempted.

I hope you are correct though ex

If the goal was a play in spot, SA would probably currently be in that mid group of 8 teams between 16-18 and 18-16. We did start 5-2. To make the play in, and stay in the lottery, SA would have to drop to 13th, virtually eliminating them from the Wemby sweepstakes. There won’t be a #9 pick waiting as consolation prize this time.

[ambchang]

The tank is going to be extremely competitive come March. I don’t think Pop will have it in him to play the tank game with if a play-in spot is in reach. He’ll be too tempted.

I hope you are correct though ex

The spurs are trotting out a different line up every game this season. They are putting a 19 yo PF and another rookie SG who wasn’t known to be a ball handler at PG. they already are tanking. What else are the FO supposed to do?

[John B]

Victor playing in the LNB All-Star Game today 1:00 PM ET. Live on NBA App

Victor will be in the 3pt contest, up next after the skills challenge. He'll be up against ex-Spur Nando De Colo :lol

[John B]

Well finished last on that 3pt contest with 12 points.

[exstatic]

Well finished last on that 3pt contest with 12 points.

He really about a 30% 3 point shooter. Not a huge surprise. He was probably invited because he’s the Next Big Thing.

[John B]

All-Star game about to start. I'm sure they will show-case him on this. But still it would be nice.

[cd98]

It's sad, but I think we are just going to need to trade Jakob to really tank. I mean, with him in, the Spurs defense feels like it improves dramatically because he's such a mobile big man that can switch on the perimeter and still protect the rim. We need lay-up-line defense to really finish bottom three. I think we have too many guys that show some interest in playing defense.

[slick'81]

It's sad, but I think we are just going to need to trade Jakob to really tank. I mean, with him in, the Spurs defense feels like it improves dramatically because he's such a mobile big man that can switch on the perimeter and still protect the rim. We need lay-up-line defense to really finish bottom three. I think we have too many guys that show some interest in playing defense.


This team is young but kj,sochan,vassell are actually pretty good. Add being well coached and the top 3 seems like a long shot

[LeBowen]

It's sad, but I think we are just going to need to trade Jakob to really tank. I mean, with him in, the Spurs defense feels like it improves dramatically because he's such a mobile big man that can switch on the perimeter and still protect the rim. We need lay-up-line defense to really finish bottom three. I think we have too many guys that show some interest in playing defense.

He's probably the best player on the team right now (some of the young guys obviously have a way higher ceiling), but trading him wouldn't necessarily mean we'd start losing more games.
He was out for 7 games, 3 wins and 4 losses. Won against Miami and Cavs, teams that should've killed us on the glass without Jakob.

Another thing is that a lot of good teams don't take taking teams seriously and since Spurs still play decent basketball despite the lack of talent, it can spiral out of control if we get hot and the other team is cold.
Unfortuntately, you can't avoid some wins against good teams. :lol

But his situation definitely needs to be resolved. Either give him an extension or trade him. I don't think anyone will offer two firsts for Jakob or a first for JRich, but something like two firsts for Jakob+JRich package with Spurs taking a bad contract seems reasonable.

[Sugus]

Well finished last on that 3pt contest with 12 points.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urBUM5s1Xc0

Starts at 50:00 for the replay.

I was really impressed with his performance, despite the loss. That shooting form, at that height... He's already a baseline 30% 3pt shooter, and has all the tools to get better, and the physical tools to reach KD levels of playing greatness (yes, nothing's a given, but no player has ever looked closer to it).

I'm glad the Spurs picked this year to start "tanking". They'll have a great shot at him, even if they land #4 instead of top-3. It's all luck and a little Silver magic... after that. Wemby could be Him like Zion is for the Pels.

[Thomas82]

It's sad, but I think we are just going to need to trade Jakob to really tank. I mean, with him in, the Spurs defense feels like it improves dramatically because he's such a mobile big man that can switch on the perimeter and still protect the rim. We need lay-up-line defense to really finish bottom three. I think we have too many guys that show some interest in playing defense.

Another thing that's hurting us is that we have too many players playing for new contracts.

[thiste]

27 points, 12 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals & 2 blocks in 28 minutes. He got MVP.

I was at the game, it was great!

[slick'81]

NospursNo

[thiste]

Also this (at 4:20) :


https://youtu.be/zuYyojbRX3w?t=260

[cd98]

Another thing that's hurting us is that we have too many players playing for new contracts.

Yeah, and I think we are under the cap in a way that anyone that stays on the roster gets a nice bonus at the end of the season. We have too many hungry players. What we need is a selfish player that can score points and look pretty, but doesn't win. Now, I don't think that is true of Westbrook for his career, but certainly in his twilight he can be content chucking to keep his stats nice while loading up the Ls. Same with Hardin. Ha to him talking about going back to Houston as if he's going to have high demand on that next contract. I'm not foolish enough to think someone won't pay him a lot, but it will be a mistake that I'm sure the Rockets will not make twice.