Article: How the Spurs Have Already Started Planning for Victor Wembanyama

[timvp]

https://www.spurstalk.com/spurs-preparing-for-victor-wembanyama/

[Ariel]

He continued: “You play him at the four early on. Down the line, you leave the door open to him playing outside or him becoming a center. But, to give him space to grow and protect his body, he’s a four to begin with.”
I definitely agree with this... which is why I could see them holding on to Poeltl.

[MultiTroll]

Play him at the 4.

Uh, duh.

[MultiTroll]

..." their meticulousness. Stories are told about how the Spurs keep open files for every professional basketball player dating back 30-plus years and how the franchise has a constantly updated list of potential replacements for each individual in the organization."

timvp can you get us a look at the Forbes File? :lol

[MultiTroll]

"give him space to grow and protect his body"

Absolute key for whomever drafts Wama.

Chet getting injured in a glorified rat ball pickup game was a tragedy. Also need to reach Wamas brain that do NOT take uneccessary risks like Chet did. I don't mean just playing in the game, i mean the disaster decision to try to run back and block Lebron while shuffling backwords.

Smart. Wama has got to play smart.
Glad to see Spurs are already broaching the subject.

[Dejounte]

Oh man, all the hype being built up makes the disappointment that much greater. As a fan, this is why you don’t put all your hopes in one basket. It’s going to be a meltdown of epic proportions.

[John B]

Thanks Timvp for the insides. It explains a lot about Spurs direction, personnel changes and plays. It doesn’t hurt that Wemby played for TP and possibly had inside scope more than anybody. Sochan at PG is still a stretch but Wemby able to play PG and create makes it possible. So Poeltl is staying and that’s ideal being such an unselfish player. But 14% compared to 21% when Spurs landed Timmy with 3rd worst record (Spurs currently tied with 3rd worst record). Here’s hoping for the best :bobo

[Ariel]

Oh man, all the hype being built up makes the disappointment that much greater. As a fan, this is why you don’t put all your hopes in one basket. It’s going to be a meltdown of epic proportions.
you sound like the kind of guy who'd be depressed about winning a million dollars.

[John B]

Sochan, Vassell, Keldon, Wemby, Poeltl. Wow. Wemby playing some PG makes this work, but Sochan still needs to work a lot working on his handles and crisp passes, likewise Vassell as maybe another ballhandler down the stretch. While Poeltl could sit on tight games and Blake playing PG.

[Dejounte]

you sound like the kind of guy who'd be depressed about winning a million dollars.

Man, you do a great job of comprehending what my thoughts are. I’ve said in very clear statements I would be happy about landing Wemba but have expressed the very realistic possibilities about having a player like that. I’m also fine with landing a few other players outside of Wemba, something you and other folks might not be able to cope with by the way you speak of rainbows and butterflies regarding this subject. I’m sorry I’m not that super optimistic that the Spurs will be able to get him. I’m able to deal with that. I’m not sure you will.

[R. DeMurre]

It's still going all in on a 14% bet. The odds are probably as good or better that Kyle Filipowski will be wearing a Spurs' uniform next season rather than Wemby... which, honestly, I wouldn't be opposed to either.

[daslicer]

Oh man, all the hype being built up makes the disappointment that much greater. As a fan, this is why you don’t put all your hopes in one basket. It’s going to be a meltdown of epic proportions.

Agreed. I have the mentality that the Spurs won't get him. It's why I scout other guys who will be available in the top 5-6 of the draft.

[R. DeMurre]

Man, you do a great job of comprehending what my thoughts are. I’ve said in very clear statements I would be happy about landing Wemba but have expressed the very realistic possibilities about having a player like that. I’m also fine with landing a few other players outside of Wemba, something you and other folks might not be able to cope with by the way you speak of rainbows and butterflies regarding this subject. I’m sorry I’m not that super optimistic that the Spurs will be able to get him. I’m able to deal with that. I’m not sure you will.


No, you've managed to somehow elevate yourself above everybody else while sharing the exact same opinion, which is a masterful act of subjective backpatting. You think Wembanyama should be the #1 pick, but you do so while anxiously wringing your hands like Lady MacBeth, which makes you a genius of analysis. Everyone else who thinks Wembanyama should be the #1 pick is a naive and superficial poser, and they're drinking the Koolaid. Congrats on that!

[Dejounte]

No, you've managed to somehow elevate yourself above everybody else while sharing the exact same opinion, which is a masterful act of subjective backpatting. You think Wembanyama should be the #1 pick, but you do so while anxiously wringing your hands like Lady MacBeth, which makes you a genius of analysis. Everyone else who thinks Wembanyama should be the #1 pick is a naive and superficial poser who is drinking the Koolaid. Congrats on that!

Lord, here comes the guy who accuses me of going personal with people yet here he is again following every post of mine and goes out of his way to attack me because I don’t share his opinion. When can I stop living in your head rent-free? Jesus Christ. Every time I post now, I have to set a timer for about 30 minutes… about the time frame you would come react to my post and act all butthurt about it all the while being a hypocrite.

[R. DeMurre]

Lord, here comes the guy who accuses me of going personal with people yet here he is again following every post of mine and goes out of his way to attack me because I don’t share his opinion. When can I stop living in your head rent-free? Jesus Christ. Every time I post now, I have to set a timer for about 30 minutes… about the time frame you would come react to my post and act all butthurt about it all the while being a hypocrite.


Uh.. you do share my opinion. :lol

You just share it better than me, or anybody else.

[Dejounte]

Uh.. you do share my opinion. :lol

You just share it better than me, or anybody else.

Here’s a suggestion: if my posts irk you so much, put me on ignore.

and if you find that doing that is pointless because you’ll still see my posts because people quote me— then I don’t know what to tell you. Maybe my posts don’t need to appear as controversial as you think they are and they actually spur discussion on a forum with a lot of shitposting.

I’m just like a lot of other people on here. I don’t need to stand out in anyone’s mind. I’m not worth your time or effort if you feel like there’s no productive discussion to be had between you and I.

And that goes to a lot of folks who don’t like what I post.

[ginobilized]

Great article!

I, for one, am glad that the Spurs would be well prepared for landing Wemby should the lottery balls grant us that great fortune. Due diligence to the max! What's not to like about this?
It makes sense for a small market, old-school team to operate this way. It also follows to reason that PATFO would be well-prepared for picks #2 -7, as well.
It impresses me that the Spurs, especially Pop, are so holistic in their appraisals of the player and the person. No one can be 100% correct on this, especially lower in the draft order. Primo/Luka, etc.

[BatManu20]

Spurfan gonna be sorely disappointed when we end up picking between 4-8 tbh.

[InRareForm]

In poker terms spurs are roughly an Ace 10 suited against pocket aces preflop.

[LeBowen]

Anyone who is optimistic about winning something with 14% chance gets disappointed most of the time.

I'd be happy with a top3 pick.

But yeah, Victor should really hope for the Spurs to draft him, other franchises that will be in the running are more or less dumpster fires. And it would be only right for Spurs to get the most hyped international prospect.

[spurs10]

We've got a 14% chance. I'll look forward to learning about the other picks in the draft if we aren't so "fortuitous."

[Gorepopovich]

https://www.diocesisqro.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/WhatsApp-Image-2020-10-28-at-9.09.29-AM.jpeg

[slick'81]

Hell be our new pg

[Jordan Jackson]

Who’s putting all their hopes in landing the 1 pick?

Most fans seem ok with the front office taking a “chance” at placing themselves within that 14% percentile. They keep a file on every player. They should be prepared and they need to prepared - especially if they land in the top 3. They can’t fuck this up. Period.

[TD 21]

This organization is so predictable. They're supposedly seriously contemplating throwing away a quality asset(s) (on top of the two recent 1sts in the garbage) due to a 14% chance (if they actually believe it's not rigged which of course they'd never let on because teams have to keep up appearances).

Yes, the Wembanyama types typically come in as starting 4's and play the 5 more so in a backup capacity, but 5 is the most over saturated position in the league. It shouldn't be too difficult to find a lesser Poeltl and it shouldn't matter considering it's not realistic to expect to be much better next season.

[mo7888]

This organization is so predictable. They're supposedly seriously contemplating throwing away a quality asset(s) (on top of the two recent 1sts in the garbage) due to a 14% chance (if they actually believe it's not rigged which of course they'd never let on because teams have to keep up appearances).

Yes, the Wembanyama types typically come in as starting 4's and play the 5 more so in a backup capacity, but 5 is the most over saturated position in the league. It shouldn't be too difficult to find a lesser Poeltl and it shouldn't matter considering it's not realistic to expect to be much better next season.

There are no 'Wembanyama types'... he's really the first of this type...

[TD 21]

There are no 'Wembanyama types'... he's really the first of this type...

Hybrid bigs. Duncan, (Pau) Gasol, Aldridge, Horford, Ibaka, Davis, Jackson Jr., Mobley, Holmgren, etc.

They're all better off as fives, both individually and team wise especially offensively, but all save Horford came in primarily playing the four.

[LeBowen]

Hybrid bigs. Duncan, (Pau) Gasol, Aldridge, Horford, Ibaka, Davis, Jackson Jr., Mobley, Holmgren, etc.

They're all better off as fives, both individually and team wise especially offensively, but all save Horford came in primarily playing the 4.

Different times.
Unless it's some all-time great duo like Timmy-Admiral, twin towers will never happen in today's league.
Just look at Minnesota (yeah, I know). They have the best rim protector in the league and the best stretch big in the league and it just can't work.

Imo, bigs these days should be separated by handles, not range.
No handles = can't play PF in most lineups.

[MannyIsGod]

It's still going all in on a 14% bet. The odds are probably as good or better that Kyle Filipowski will be wearing a Spurs' uniform next season rather than Wemby... which, honestly, I wouldn't be opposed to either.

No its not, at all. This is not an all or nothing thing, their chances of being in the top 4 are much higher than 14% and while, yes, the best outcome is the #1, picking earlier in the draft obviously is better than picking later in the draft in terms of addnig the kind of player the Spurs need to be a contender again. And what exactly are the Spurs giving up? A shot at the play in game? The opportunity cost of trading away DJM and not being MAYBE the 9th or 10th best team in the west is well worth the draft picks they acquired in the trade and their increase in draft capital in this upcoming draft.

All in implies that if you don't get Wemby then you end up with nothing but that is obviously far from the truth, and best of all, the Spurs haven't really given up much of value to get into this position.

[TD 21]

Different times.
Unless it's some all-time great duo like Timmy-Admiral, twin towers will never happen in today's league.
Just look at Minnesota (yeah, I know). They have the best rim protector in the league and the best stretch big in the league and it just can't work.

No handles = can't play PF.

I wasn't opining, just saying those types almost always come in primarily playing the four.

Two bigs are making somewhat of a comeback though, now that they've had ample time to adjust to this era, especially the younger ones who partially grew up in it.

[LeBowen]

I wasn't opining, just saying those types almost always come in primarily playing the four.

Two bigs are making somewhat of a comeback though, now that they've had ample time to adjust to this era, especially the younger ones who partially grew up in it.

Yeah, they were fours, but if they were drafted today, they would all be fives unless the team already has an elite big.

[KingKev]

I think it is awesome PATFO are working to get this franchise back to greatness. If VW likes to flash his dingaling I’m still drafting him but maybe that is just me.

[TD 21]

Yeah, they were fours, but if they were drafted today, they would all be fives unless the team already has an elite big.

No, they'd primarily be fours to start off because right or wrong teams don't want their slender bodies taking the pounding of banging with the premier behemoths.

As I said though, in the long run they're all better off as fives.

[RC_Drunkford]

Good. Scoot being #2 is probably another encouragement for them to keep Poeltl. Anyway the Spurs will get a good player regardless. I still want them to aquire another pick in this draft, somebody good will fall with all the talent in there

[PhantomDashCam]

..." their meticulousness. Stories are told about how the Spurs keep open files for every professional basketball player dating back 30-plus years and how the franchise has a constantly updated list of potential replacements for each individual in the organization."

timvp can you get us a look at the Forbes File? :lol

I snuck a peek.

https://images.dailykos.com/images/590585/story_image/Redacted-Document1.jpg?1537375388
Still way off base...

[Russ]

We've got a 14% chance. I'll look forward to learning about the other picks in the draft if we aren't so "fortuitous."

14% chance? Don't forget the bonus points for getting consistently blown out. :flag:

[playbonner15]

If Spurs dont get top 3 pick, will they compete next season, or just keep on tanking until 1st pick?

[slick'81]

Still gotta lose to Houston

[exstatic]

Still gotta lose to Houston

Yup. We’re going to win some games, probably the neighborhood of 20. We just need to make sure it’s not against bottom feeders. That’s a double gut punch.

[tbdog]

Only 14% chance we even get him. Yikes.

[slick'81]

Only 14% chance we even get him. Yikes.

were not getting him

[Leetonidas]

We're getting Wemby boys, don't even worry about it

[Russ]

timvp's article, if true, is one of the scariest things I've ever read.

This is Hitler in the bunker moving around phantom armies type stuff.

[Dverde]

I just hope these clowns don’t jinx us. I’d be happy with a top three pick. I’ll be upset if the Magic or Pusstons get it since they both just had #1 pick.

[BackHome]

Good. Scoot being #2 is probably another encouragement for them to keep Poeltl. Anyway the Spurs will get a good player regardless. I still want them to aquire another pick in this draft, somebody good will fall with all the talent in there

Yeah, I am greedy but definitely want another pick would even be happy with a high second round pick - I think even in this draft you can definitely get a NBA legit starter in the late teens, and very good bench player up even in the second round.

[FvckMavs]

The fact that both Pistons and Magic had a first pick and Rockets had two top-3 picks during the last two years may actually help us a little bit. :fro

[JuneJive]

timvp's article, if true, is one of the scariest things I've ever read.

This is Hitler in the bunker moving around phantom armies type stuff.

Get with the times, old man ;)

A generational type player is within reasonable grasp. You take every chance you get to position yourself the best.

[Russ]

Get with the times, old man ;)

A generational type player is within reasonable grasp. You take every chance you get to position yourself the best.

What the fuck doers that have to do with my point?

[exstatic]

I run sims on Tankathon, and we go backwards as much as we jump up in the mock draft. We’ve moved back into 3rd with the loss today, and I just had a sim drop us to 7th, literally the worst possible outcome. One in seven is a chance, but it’s not a good chance.

[Ariel]

There's a generational player coming out. You're one of the 3/4 teams with the best possible chance to land him. And you're NOT supposed to plan ahead and position yourself as best you can because it may not happen? :lol Jesus Christ almighty... some of you are funny.

[Excessive Egotist]

1. Trade Poeltl 2. Win the Wemby lottery 3. Re-sign Poeltl this summer.

[Dex]

1. Trade Poeltl 2. Win the Wemby lottery 3. Re-sign Poeltl this summer.

Uh...that's not how that works

[SpurPadre]

It's still going all in on a 14% bet. The odds are probably as good or better that Kyle Filipowski will be wearing a Spurs' uniform next season rather than Wemby... which, honestly, I wouldn't be opposed to either.

Filipowski is 39th best prospect on NBA Drafnet, 22nd best on SI and 16th best prospect on Tankathon. If we aren't lucky enough to land #1 but get no worse than 7th pick and get Filipowski, that would be a BIG overreach. Fuck that.

[Ariel]

Whomever thinks the Spurs won't get Wemby because the odds say it won't happen, for the sake of consistency should put their money where their mouth is, and play a round of russian roulette... chances are about the same, and you'll be here afterwards, posting proof that you were right all along and we were wrong.











Or not, and next year we'll cheer Wemby in a Spurs uniform for you. :lol

[Seventyniner]

Filipowski is 39th best prospect on NBA Drafnet, 22nd best on SI and 16th best prospect on Tankathon. If we aren't lucky enough to land #1 but get no worse than 7th pick and get Filipowski, that would be a BIG overreach. Fuck that.

If the Spurs finish with a bottom 3 record their second round pick will be #31/32/33. That wouldn't be a big reach for the 39th best prospect.

That's another side benefit of tanking. The Spurs have had great success with recent #29 picks; finding a gem at the top of the second should be possible.

[The Truth #6]

The way the article is written I can’t tell if the Spurs are doing due their diligence or living in a fantasy.

[Seventyniner]

The way the article is written I can’t tell if the Spurs are doing due their diligence or living in a fantasy.

Those aren't mutually exclusive, but I'm leaning towards the latter. What's the point of doing that much scouting on a player that you already know you'll take at #1 and won't have a chance at with any other draft slot?

[R. DeMurre]

Filipowski is 39th best prospect on NBA Drafnet, 22nd best on SI and 16th best prospect on Tankathon. If we aren't lucky enough to land #1 but get no worse than 7th pick and get Filipowski, that would be a BIG overreach. Fuck that.


Those mocks are all very early versions, and history shows that they almost always change. A year ago Emoni Bates was the "best" prospect in the country... now he's a 2nd round pick, according to those same experts. With a small sample size, early in the NCAA year, Filipowski is arguably the best freshman in the country.

[Ditty]

Glad to hear! Any team lucky enough to draft him will be a REALLY good team for a long time.

[mo7888]

Those mocks are all very early versions, and history shows that they almost always change. A year ago Emoni Bates was the "best" prospect in the country... now he's a 2nd round pick, according to those same experts. With a small sample size, early in the NCAA year, Filipowski is arguably the best freshman in the country.

Yep.... I personally have Filippowski mind teens right now... he's won't be there in the early 2nd most likely..

[CGD]

If we land the Scoot Henderson pick instead, I wonder if moving one or both of those ATL picks to get up to 1 is a possibility.

[mo7888]

If we land the Scoot Henderson pick instead, I wonder if moving one or both of those ATL picks to get up to 1 is a possibility.

Nope...I don't believe there is a package anyone in the league could put together to get to #1 this season..

[CGD]

Nope...I don't believe there is a package anyone in the league could put together to get to #1 this season..

I fear that, even if it’s the 2nd pick and that pick is Scoot.

[Russ]

This is like 1969 -- the number one pick is Kareem Abdul Jabaar (Lew Alcindor) and the number two pick is Neal Walk.

[The Truth #6]

This is like 1969 -- the number one pick is Kareem Abdul Jabaar (Lew Alcindor) and the number two pick is Neal Walk.

Yep. David Robinson or Armon Gilliam. But we need a lot of help, so whoever we get is going to improve us.

[R. DeMurre]

There's a generational player coming out. You're one of the 3/4 teams with the best possible chance to land him. And you're NOT supposed to plan ahead and position yourself as best you can because it may not happen? :lol Jesus Christ almighty... some of you are funny.


Plus it just happens to be their jobs :lol-- so of course they're looking ahead & planning out scenarios where they have Wemby, or have Scoot, or Amen, etc...

[Excessive Egotist]

I thought the rule was a traded player could not go back to the sending team within the same basketball season. But a player traded from Team X to Team Y could, theoretically, return during free agency (after July 1). The Spurs would not be restricted from bidding on Poeltl in free agency, provided he was traded this season. And if Poeltl were traded to a team with cap constraints (i.e. Golden State, if they pay Draymond next summer) the Spurs could be in a position to make a competitive offer.

[MultiTroll]

And in the 86% chance the Spurs don't land Wama......

any meticulous activity being Forbes, i mean formed? :lol

[mo7888]

And in the 86% chance the Spurs don't land Wama......

any meticulous activity being Forbes, i mean formed? :lol

It is is a good discussion to be had...I mean the odds are we don't get him so, what is the Plan B. Do we tank again next year for a high Pick? Do we throw money at a lower rent Wembanyama (Porzingus) in fa and follow the plan they've laid out? There are a lot of possibilities..

[baseline bum]

It is is a good discussion to be had...I mean the odds are we don't get him so, what is the Plan B. Do we tank again next year for a high Pick? Do we throw money at a lower rent Wembanyama (Porzingus) in fa and follow the plan they've laid out? There are a lot of possibilities..

Spurs are tanking regardless next year, neither Wembanyama nor Scoot Henderson nor any other 19/20 years old rookie is going to make this anything close to a playoff team.

[Ariel]

Spurs are tanking regardless next year, neither Wembanyama nor Scoot Henderson nor any other 19/20 years old rookie is going to make this anything close to a playoff team.
I disagree. This roster with 1 more year under its belt, retaining Poeltl, landing Wembanyama, and making a few intelligent signings in FA or trades (like a starting caliber PG) is easily a play in team at least.. They could still tank one more year, but if we get lucky now, maybe they'll bounce back right away.

[baseline bum]

I disagree. This roster with 1 more year under its belt, retaining Poeltl, landing Wembanyama, and making a few intelligent signings in FA or trades (like a starting caliber PG) is easily a play in team at least.. They could still tank one more year, but if we get lucky now, maybe they'll bounce back right away.

Meh no one signs here, the roster is awful, and there is no reason to dump picks for vets to try to win next year with a rookie instead of just naturally getting another top 5 pick next year.

[mo7888]

Spurs are tanking regardless next year, neither Wembanyama nor Scoot Henderson nor any other 19/20 years old rookie is going to make this anything close to a playoff team.

I get that we aren't challenging for anything next year but if we get Wembanyama they're gonna try and surround him with vets immediately and make an effort to win (even though we won't be good yet)...

What I'm speaking of is trying to tank (not just being a bad team)... the rotations we're running combined with timvp's Intel screams we're trying to lose from a front office perspective.

[baseline bum]

I get that we aren't challenging for anything next year but if we get Wembanyama they're gonna try and surround him with vets immediately and make an effort to win (even though we won't be good yet)...

What I'm speaking of is trying to tank (not just being a bad team)... the rotations we're running combined with timvp's Intel screams we're trying to lose from a front office perspective.

In this best case of landing Wembanyama, this isn't 1989 where you're getting 24 year-old David Robinson while also having a top 3 pick with allstar potential (e.g. Sean Elliott). And even then they really only traded Alvin for TC because Alvin was having off the court problems but still had great trade value. I think you take another swing at a high draft pick and hope you get another Sean Elliott before making a move to land vets after Wemby would have a year of experience in the league and really be ready to start running his second season.

[Mugen]

Yeah, they were super meticulous when they were vetting Primo :lol

[Excessive Egotist]

I get that we aren't challenging for anything next year but if we get Wembanyama they're gonna try and surround him with vets immediately and make an effort to win (even though we won't be good yet)...

What I'm speaking of is trying to tank (not just being a bad team)... the rotations we're running combined with timvp's Intel screams we're trying to lose from a front office perspective.


A rebuild is a multi-year process. I imagine the Spurs won't rush the rebuild. It's much better for them to be in the lottery two drafts from now. Perhaps in '25 as well. I just hope the front office has the time (from ownership and fans) and the stomach to see it through. The important milestone is being in a position to contend each year of Wemby's second contract. Plus, the next few free agent classes are very underwhelming.

[JPB]

I don't see Spurs tanking if they get Victor but immediately trying to build a competitive team...

Tanking long term would really hurt the franchise and, as we're seeing with other teams, might end up as some kind of dead en street, with one million picks and prospects.

Besides, as we all know by now, Victor may become the face of the NBA and a huge attraction for the next decade+... You wanna make the best of the huge expectations and attention his arrival in the NBA will generate, and not bury him for his first year in a small market, tanking team that will get blown out every night...... That's basic communication and business, as well as a way to potentially drag quality FAs.

Last but not least, no way victor accpet to play to lose. Kid is an ultumate competitor who hates losing and you might risk demolralizing him or even build some frustration and resentment...

[stnick2261]

I just posted this in another thread:

The Spurs have shown they can find serviceable starters (and even a few all-stars) drafting late in the 1st. It's the franchise player that you (mostly) need a high draft pick for. Once we have that player, I'm confident in the FO to surround him with enough talent without having to continue the tank (and using whatever natural draft spots we end up with each year).

[Excessive Egotist]

There is likely more nuance here than "should tank" and "won't tank" capture. With a core of Wemby, Sochan, and Vassell, the Spurs might as good as the Thunder next season? Should the Spurs try to skip that step and become as good as the current Jazz or Pacers next season?

Personally, I don't see the advantage. I'd rather give Wemby another mid to high lottery teammate for his second season.

The two exceptions I could see the Spurs accelerating are the point guard position and center. A short term vet who is a master at running offense--someone like Mike Conley or, more expensively, VanVleet would dramatically help Wemby's development. The other was mentioned by TimVP in his recent article. Namely, a burly rim protector. But even if the team had both Conley and Poeltl next to Wemby, Vassell, Johnson, and Sochan, that is still a mid lottery team.

[LkrFan]

CIA Pop a real one
1599559288837443584
:lol

[Excessive Egotist]

I just posted this in another thread:

The Spurs have shown they can find serviceable starters (and even a few all-stars) drafting late in the 1st. It's the franchise player that you (mostly) need a high draft pick for. Once we have that player, I'm confident in the FO to surround him with enough talent without having to continue the tank (and using whatever natural draft spots we end up with each year).

The Spurs should have plenty of mid to late FRPs the back half of this decade. If they handle their assets well, they should have a few lottery picks vis a vi controlling another teams picks during those years too. If the team won Wemby, they should be able to field a contender from '25ish-37ish.

[Uriel]

Even if the Spurs never win a game for the rest of the season, there is still an 86% chance they don't get Wembanyama.

[exstatic]

Even if the Spurs never win a game for the rest of the season, there is still an 86% chance they don't get Wembanyama.

Yes, I think that’s been established. We live in the world of the flattened lottery odds.

[Uriel]

I've watched quite a few of Duke's games and Flipowski has been the best player on that team, even more so than Whitehead and Lively so far. But to end up with him instead of Wembanyama would be a massive disappointment.

[exstatic]

I've watched quite a few of Duke's games and Flipowski has been the best player on that team, even more so than Whitehead and Lively so far. But to end up with him instead of Wembanyama would be a massive disappointment.

We’re not taking him with a top 7 or 8 pick. He’s a white boy from Duke.

[spurraider21]

has pop been scribbling "Pop + Victor" over and over in his notebook as well?

[baseline bum]

Even if the Spurs never win a game for the rest of the season, there is still an 86% chance they don't get Wembanyama.

But a very high chance of a top 5 pick. No point whatsoever in trying to be a 30 win team after trading Murray away. Better to be extremely bad than just really bad since extremely bad gives you the opportunity to draft the highest end talent.

[spurraider21]

Yeah, they were super meticulous when they were vetting Primo :lol
look primo wasnt featured that much in college but he flashed enough to get their attention

[mo7888]

In this best case of landing Wembanyama, this isn't 1989 where you're getting 24 year-old David Robinson while also having a top 3 pick with allstar potential (e.g. Sean Elliott). And even then they really only traded Alvin for TC because Alvin was having off the court problems but still had great trade value. I think you take another swing at a high draft pick and hope you get another Sean Elliott before making a move to land vets after Wemby would have a year of experience in the league and really be ready to start running his second season.

We are only disagreeing on the semantics here...you're saying we tank another year...I'm saying we're going to surround him with vets to play the right way and we are still going to lose enough to get a good draft pick in the scenario that we get Wembanyama..

[couchman]

This article is embarrassing.
Obviously the Spurs need to prepare for the unlikely chance that they get Wemby, but why write a whole article about it?
I’d be more interested in learning about their 4 year roadmap that hopefully doesn’t rely on a lucky bounce.

[mo7888]

This article is embarrassing.
Obviously the Spurs need to prepare for the unlikely chance that they get Wemby, but why write a whole article about it?
I’d be more interested in learning about their 4 year roadmap that hopefully doesn’t rely on a lucky bounce.

You can't plot that road map until this draft is over...you may have plans that are general in nature but you don't know exactly what they are until this is over because this isn't a normal draft..

[KingKev]

Yes, I think that’s been established. We live in the world of the flattened lottery odds.

That is exactly who PATFO will take with the 7th or 8th pick. You can’t give this FO too much discretion these days.

[tonight...you]

Even if the Spurs never win a game for the rest of the season, there is still an 86% chance they don't get Wembanyama.
I think this is a number that needs to be battered into the tankers more than anything else.
86 percent to fail your dreams.
86 percent to not get Wemby.
Think about that.

[baseline bum]

I think this is a number that needs to be battered into the tankers more than anything else.
86 percent to fail your dreams.
86 percent to not get Wemby.
Think about that.

Don't think many people are on board with tanking just for Wembanyama, it would be ridiculous when there's a 6 in 7 chance you don't get him. I'm on board with tanking because the roster sucks after trading Murray and the Spurs will need to draft top 5 for another 3-4 years and hope one of the picks really hits to get out of this downward spiral Leonard put the team into when his uncle forced his way out 4.5 years ago.

[BacktoBasics]

So am I understanding correctly that if we have a top 3 worst record we’re guaranteed a top 5 pick?

Ultimately that’s the goal wouldn’t it be.

[MultiTroll]

We’re not taking him with a top 7 or 8 pick. He’s a white boy from Duke.
We landed Bryn Forms and outbid everyone else for Patty Mills.

Wouldn't underestimate Pop.

[exstatic]

So am I understanding correctly that if we have a top 3 worst record we’re guaranteed a top 5 pick?

Ultimately that’s the goal wouldn’t it be.

No. You are guaranteed a pick no worse than your position, minus 4 slots. Right now, we’re guaranteed top 7.

[Russ]

So am I understanding correctly that if we have a top 3 worst record we’re guaranteed a top 5 pick?



No, only if you have the abosolute worst record are you guaranteed a top 5 pick.

[thiste]

Nice to see PATFO are all in on Wemby

[rascal]

Spurfan gonna be sorely disappointed when we end up picking between 4-8 tbh.

Not likely. The Spurs look headed for the worst record in the league.

Not likely three teams will move ahead of them on lottery night.

[JPB]

I think this is a number that needs to be battered into the tankers more than anything else.
86 percent to fail your dreams.
86 percent to not get Wemby.
Think about that.

100% if you don't try.

If you suck anyway, and there's 14% chance you get a generational player, or a great pick.... You know, someone IS gonna get Victor whom they'd never have gotten if the didn't tank hard.

It's not like you get Victor or nothing anyway. If you have have 14% chance to be a billionaire or otherwise a millionaire and that you have nothing to lose, what do you do? Don't you try because "Oh, I have 86% not to be a billionaire"?

I mean Spurs are not contending anytime soon in the actual state of things. And From someone who's never been a tank psycho, but Victor changes everything... You can't at least try.

[slick'81]

100% if you don't try.

If you suck anyway, and there's 14% chance you get a generational player... You know, someone IS gonna get Victor and they'll be thrilled theyt tanked for him.


nobody is expecting to get victorious. As long as spurs get that 14% chance its a W

[ambchang]

I understand why VW is so highly touted as the combination of size and skills is just unprecedented people should really taper the expectations.

Just based on the highlights there are still many rough edges to smooth out. He has a tendency to bring the ball down in the paint and pump fake when he can just shoot over anyone. His release isn’t the quickest (though it’s pretty much unblockable), I doubt he can dribble around nba talent like he does in the French league.

If metro 92 makes the euro league it would provide a better look at where VW is at this point. He is currently just playing a bunch of c-level talent.

[exstatic]

Not likely. The Spurs look headed for the worst record in the league.

Not likely three teams will move ahead of them on lottery night.

That’s actually happened at least once with the new flattened odds that started in 2019.

[exstatic]

I understand why VW is so highly touted as the combination of size and skills is just unprecedented people should really taper the expectations.

Just based on the highlights there are still many rough edges to smooth out. He has a tendency to bring the ball down in the paint and pump fake when he can just shoot over anyone. His release isn’t the quickest (though it’s pretty much unblockable), I doubt he can dribble around nba talent like he does in the French league.

If metro 92 makes the euro league it would provide a better look at where VW is at this point. He is currently just playing a bunch of c-level talent.

French A league is one of the 2 or 3 best in Europe, but yes, the Euroleague would give a much better view.

[JPB]

I understand why VW is so highly touted as the combination of size and skills is just unprecedented people should really taper the expectations.

Just based on the highlights there are still many rough edges to smooth out. He has a tendency to bring the ball down in the paint and pump fake when he can just shoot over anyone. His release isn’t the quickest (though it’s pretty much unblockable), I doubt he can dribble around nba talent like he does in the French league.

If metro 92 makes the euro league it would provide a better look at where VW is at this point. He is currently just playing a bunch of c-level talent.

Allow me to better trust Lebron, Steph, Giannis and Durant (who all said he was gonna own the NBA for the next decade+) opinions over yours...

Ofc he's still not perfect, he's 18... And we've ner seen that for an 18 prospect. But dude dropped 73 points in 71 minutes out of the plane vs. Scoot's team...

[tonight...you]

100% if you don't try.

If you suck anyway, and there's 14% chance you get a generational player, or a great pick.... You know, someone IS gonna get Victor whom they'd never have gotten if the didn't tank hard.

It's not like you get Victor or nothing anyway. If you have have 14% chance to be a billionaire or otherwise a millionaire and that you have nothing to lose, what do you do? Don't you try because "Oh, I have 86% not to be a billionaire"?

I mean Spurs are not contending anytime soon in the actual state of things. And From someone who's never been a tank psycho, but Victor changes everything... You can't at least try.
Good point.

[bluebellmaniac]

It is is a good discussion to be had...I mean the odds are we don't get him so, what is the Plan B. Do we tank again next year for a high Pick? Do we throw money at a lower rent Wembanyama (Porzingus) in fa and follow the plan they've laid out? There are a lot of possibilities..

Plan B is Scooter. Plan C is the 3rd guy on Tankathon. Plan D is the 4th guy on Tankathon, etc.

[mo7888]

Plan B is Scooter. Plan C is the 3rd guy on Tankathon. Plan D is the 4th guy on Tankathon, etc.

Yea but I'm not talking about who we pick if we're not #1... I'm talking about the plan for the direction of this team...

[ambchang]

Allow me to better trust Lebron, Steph, Giannis and Durant (who all said he was gonna own the NBA for the next decade+) opinions over yours...

Ofc he's still not perfect, he's 18... And we've ner seen that for an 18 prospect. But dude dropped 73 points in 71 minutes out of the plane vs. Scoot's team...

He is certainly the best prospect since Lebron. The guy is a cheat code but there are rough edges. Expecting him to come in an immediately make the spurs, or any other lottery team, an instant contender is unrealistic.

[MultiTroll]

^ Timmy Dunks had 4 years at Wake and was 22 when he hit the NBA hardwood.

So ya no reason to have some Chet shit happen and have Wama overextend.
I'm on record as saying 50 reg season games max 1st year.

[MultiTroll]

Will PATFO maneuver things to bring back Brent Forbes if Wama gets signed?

[bluebellmaniac]

Yea but I'm not talking about who we pick if we're not #1... I'm talking about the plan for the direction of this team...

You win 'chips with talent. However you can acquire it, you acquire it. If you need to tank 2 yrs in a row, you do it. But you don't do a Philly and tank for 6 yrs straight. Team can't last like that in this town. But we shouldn't have to either. There is enough talent on the team already that even if we get Scoot, we should win a hella-lot of games next season.

We have a good core, with an all-star PG and a couple more strong role or All-Star players on the road-map (Think ATL's picks), we are going to have a DEEP team that will contend every year to go far into the playoffs. But Wemby would get us there a lot faster.

[mo7888]

You win 'chips with talent. However you can acquire it, you acquire it. If you need to tank 2 yrs in a row, you do it. But you don't do a Philly and tank for 6 yrs straight. Team can't last like that in this town. But we shouldn't have to either. There is enough talent on the team already that even if we get Scoot, we should win a hella-lot of games next season.

We have a good core, with an all-star PG and a couple more strong role or All-Star players on the road-map (Think ATL's picks), we are going to have a DEEP team that will contend every year to go far into the playoffs. But Wemby would get us there a lot faster.

I kinda see it that way too... the question for me (in a non Wembanyama scenario) is do we start acquiring more proven commodities this summer or wait one more year and get a second top 8 draft pick the following year. I think I'm leaning towards acquiring talent this summer of its available. Run out our top 5 pick...KJ, Vassell and a player or two that we might be able to get this summer...

[buujness]

I kinda see it that way too... the question for me (in a non Wembanyama scenario) is do we start acquiring more proven commodities this summer or wait one more year and get a second top 8 draft pick the following year. I think I'm leaning towards acquiring talent this summer of its available. Run out our top 5 pick...KJ, Vassell and a player or two that we might be able to get this summer...
That would depend on the player.

If the player is Scoot, then I agree. He's good enough to make the team more competitive day 1.

If the player is Amen Thompson, for example, I think the Spurs wait. While he's very talented, he's also raw. Same with the other draft picks (Nick Smith Jr, Cam Whitmore, etc.).

[Mr. Body]

Fucking hilarious. Fourteen percent chance. This is what happens when everything comes crashing down around your ears.

[JPB]

I kinda see it that way too... the question for me (in a non Wembanyama scenario) is do we start acquiring more proven commodities this summer or wait one more year and get a second top 8 draft pick the following year. I think I'm leaning towards acquiring talent this summer of its available. Run out our top 5 pick...KJ, Vassell and a player or two that we might be able to get this summer...

My view too... they'll also have a bunch of FRPs the next few years who might materialize into one or two solid players in addition to the nice cap they have.

[MultiTroll]

David Robinson was an excellent fit next to Timmy Duncan.

Not sure where this "Poodle is an excellent fit next to Wama" comes from.

[exstatic]

David Robinson was an excellent fit next to Timmy Duncan.

Not sure where this "Poodle is an excellent fit next to Wama" comes from.

Because he can play the interior while Wemby would man the 4 spot.

[MultiTroll]

Because he can play the interior while Wemby would man the 4 spot.
I was looking for a higher standard then "plays Center."

Poodles offensive limitations are gonna be exposed when teams double and triple Wama.

I'm not a Poodle hater. Just think he's fine against lower and some mid tier bigs.

Gets worked vs Elite bigs.

[exstatic]

I was looking for a higher standard then "plays Center."

Poodles offensive limitations are gonna be exposed when teams double and triple Wama.

I'm not a Poodle hater. Just think he's fine against lower and some mid tier bigs.

Gets worked vs Elite bigs.

Wembys going to be way out on the perimeter. Think of him as a 7’4” SF or even SG.

[slick'81]

Wembys going to be way out on the perimeter. Think of him as a 7’4” SF or even SG.

hes no traditional center

[Dejounte]

I know Wemba is Superman to some but are there seriously no doubts about Wemba being able to defend quick 4’s (and 3’s when they switch) full-time? Seems like something that would exhaust him on defense and smaller players with handles would probably challenge him on the dribble. Well aware there are highlights of him blocking the shit out of little people… but against NBA speed for a full 25-30 minutes every other night?

the closest thing to Wemba in the NBA right now is Karl Anthony Towns. A center-sized player masquerading as a PF. Not sure if they’re doing that great defensively with that setup and I imagine Wemba is not much quicker than Towns.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/e3OjZUrg1LI

Good video of actually showing Wemba’s lowlights. Players were blowing by him here and his feet almost looked like he was tripping over himself.

on the 14% chance he’s drafted, hopefully he focuses on his strength for the first few years to play the NBA position he’s supposed to play.

[mo7888]

I know Wemba is Superman to some but are there seriously no doubts about Wemba being able to defend quick 4’s (and 3’s when they switch) full-time? Seems like something that would exhaust him on defense and smaller players with handles would probably challenge him on the dribble. Well aware there are highlights of him blocking the shit out of little people… but against NBA speed for a full 25-30 minutes every other night?

the closest thing to Wemba in the NBA right now is Karl Anthony Towns. A center-sized player masquerading as a PF. Not sure if they’re doing that great defensively with that setup and I imagine Wemba is not much quicker than Towns.

No doubts at all really tbh...

[Dejounte]

No doubts at all really tbh...

Even with evidence being presented… but hey, to each his own. (Wemba diehards will again take this comment as bashing the player as a whole rather than opening up a discussion about clear and obvious concerns over Wemba’s weaknesses)

Wemba is the next coming of Jesus tbh

[mo7888]

Even with evidence being presented… but hey, to each his own. (Wemba diehards will again take this comment as bashing the player as a whole rather than opening up a discussion about clear and obvious concerns over Wemba’s weaknesses)

Wemba is the next coming of Jesus tbh

No, I don't think he's gonna die for my sins...but I do think he's going to be transcendent on the basketball court. I don't expect him to be defending two's and three's in space on the defensive end. He'll guard the 4 early in his career but offensively he'll play several positions. After his body finishes maturing he'll be able to play the 4 or 5 defensively.

I have no doubts. I'd trade every asset we can legally trade to get him and start building from scratch around the guy if thats what it took to get him (although it's not realistic because no team that drafts him would trade him for every asset we have...so it's get #1 or chart a plan B)

[Dejounte]

No, I don't think he's gonna die for my sins...but I do think he's going to be transcendent on the basketball court. I don't expect him to be defending two's and three's in space on the defensive end. He'll guard the 4 early in his career but offensively he'll play several positions. After his body finishes maturing he'll be able to play the 4 or 5 defensively.

I have no doubts. I'd trade every asset we can legally trade to get him and start building from scratch around the guy if thats what it took to get him (although it's not realistic because no team that drafts him would trade him for every asset we have...so it's get #1 or chart a plan B)

Tbh I just find it peculiar that when there is a question posed highlighting a potential weakness that the typical answer barely addresses it and proceeds to “I’m willing to overlook that because he’s skillful in this other area”. You started off okay by saying he won’t guard 2’s and 3’s, which by the way is obvious, but the topic on hand are quick 4’s. Quick 4’s are abundant in this league and sometimes 3’s play the 4 in today’s league. Then you trailed way off about how much you’d give up for him… not really interested in that. Real answers would involve an explanation of why Wemba won’t get abused on defense like the clips in the video I linked, and something along those lines.

[exstatic]

Blowing by Wemby doesn’t leave you in the clear. There’s that 8 Ft. wingspan, allowing him to block you from behind without fouling. But, yeah, that’s a reason to keep Jakob. He can also space you quite a bit without surrendering the ability to block your shot on the perimeter, increasing his defensive coverage of the drive.

[mo7888]

Tbh I just find it peculiar that when there is a question posed highlighting a potential weakness that the typical answer barely addresses it and proceeds to “I’m willing to overlook that because he’s skillful in this other area”. You started off okay by saying he won’t guard 2’s and 3’s, which by the way is obvious, but the topic on hand are quick 4’s. Quick 4’s are abundant in this league and sometimes 3’s play the 4 in today’s league. Then you trailed way off about how much you’d give up for him… not really interested in that. Real answers would involve an explanation of why Wemba won’t get abused on defense like the clips in the video I linked, and something along those lines.

You didn't specify 'quick 4's' in your initial posit. The simple answer to that is that's he's athletic enough and should round out into physical shape to play Quick 4's once he figures out the game here. With his length he'll play off the ball enough to challenge players that try to blow by him instead of getting up in their grill on the perimeter. Playing off of his defender will let him channel that guy to help defenders or he can disrupt the shot if the guy trys to pull up because he's so long.

Since you're not interested in his value I'll leave that for now but the explanation I gave as to why I'm not worried about him guarding quick 4's should suffice..

[KingKev]

Blowing by Wemby doesn’t leave you in the clear. There’s that 8 Ft. wingspan, allowing him to block you from behind without fouling. But, yeah, that’s a reason to keep Jakob. He can also space you quite a bit without surrendering the ability to block your shot on the perimeter, increasing his defensive coverage of the drive.

Great discussion going on here. Wemby should be able to be a monster on chase down blocks if he does get blown away by quicker new age type wings….. make AK47 look like a 357 Derringer.

[R. DeMurre]

Boston unlocked Robert Williams' best potential by moving him off of opposing centers defensively to allow him to be more of a free safety on defense. I think Wembanyama will be similar. The idea of a center in front and Wemby chasing down from behind with his 8' wingspan will be intimidating for anyone near the paint, and it doesn't even have to be a top notch defensive center-- a Nick Richards, Omer Yurtseven, or Luke Kornet would fit nicely next to Wemby, at a bargain price. I'd say the bigger worry is switching in the other direction, towards the SF position... one reason Keldon Johnson isn't necessarily a good fit with Wembanyama.

[scott]

Tbh I just find it peculiar that when there is a question posed highlighting a potential weakness that the typical answer barely addresses it and proceeds to “I’m willing to overlook that because he’s skillful in this other area”. You started off okay by saying he won’t guard 2’s and 3’s, which by the way is obvious, but the topic on hand are quick 4’s. Quick 4’s are abundant in this league and sometimes 3’s play the 4 in today’s league. Then you trailed way off about how much you’d give up for him… not really interested in that. Real answers would involve an explanation of why Wemba won’t get abused on defense like the clips in the video I linked, and something along those lines.

Love this discussion because this is a message board and discussion is the purpose of it. Surely Wemby has some weaknesses that need to be developed. I'm interested in hearing about them. That doesn't mean he shouldn't be the #1 pick, but it is interesting to take note of what development is yet to be done. Thanks for raising the topic, DJ.

[T Park]

In poker terms spurs are roughly an Ace 10 suited against pocket aces preflop.

Thats a great analogy from what little i can remember from playing poker from the early 2K’s

[T Park]

Good. Scoot being #2 is probably another encouragement for them to keep Poeltl. Anyway the Spurs will get a good player regardless. I still want them to aquire another pick in this draft, somebody good will fall with all the talent in there

This is a deep draft. But i could see them packaging possibly the Bulls pick, especially with the way theyre going, with a player to get another first round pick. Will be tough, from what little ive read this is gonna be, allegedly, a deep draft.

[pookenstein]

Gets worked vs Elite bigs.

Well, that kind of makes Elite Bigs elite. Even other elite bigs get worked by other elite bigs.

[Tyronn Lue]

Kawhi is watching this lottery. Hope he goes back to San Antonio if Victor is drafted by them. Tired of him being on the "DNP" list for seasons.

[slick'81]

Spurs aren't sniffing the top 3

[boutons_deux]

Spurs draft: Kel'el Ware is the best prize for the loser of Wembanyama sweepstakes



https://airalamo.com/posts/san-antonio-spurs-draft-kelel-ware-profile

[MultiTroll]

:lol Pathetic win over the Heat.

[paperboy77]

These muthafuckers have too much pride. Just lose guys! Was never a team tank but now it's utterly clear we don't stand a chance this year and we don't need a mid rounder unless we somehow get a stud free-agent which we all know we can't.

[MultiTroll]

Pops personal wins record and continuing to develop Dougie McForbesbot appears to be the current vision.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

Kawhi is watching this lottery. Hope he goes back to San Antonio if Victor is drafted by them. Tired of him being on the "DNP" list for seasons.

Dude’s about done tbh. He’ll be racking up DNPs wherever he lands. A guy who can’t play through pain isn’t going to like how his body feels as age catches up with him. If he’d of had Timmy’s knees he’d of retired two years ago.

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

^^^Scratch that. He IS retired, he’s just getting paid by the Clippers for it.

[R. DeMurre]

Big game for Wembanyama and his Metropolitans 92 team today vs AS Monaco, who are half a game ahead of them in the standings and feature two players with slight connections to the Spurs, Jaron Blossomgame and Donatas Motiejunas.

[Thomas82]

The Rockets and Magic won tonight, so that's good news for us.

[mo7888]

The Rockets and Magic won tonight, so that's good news for us.

Yep, watching the magic of late I don't see any way we finish ahead of them. They are putting it together just a bit and Wagner looks like the best player in redraft of that class..

[Dejounte]

Yep, watching the magic of late I don't see any way we finish ahead of them. They are putting it together just a bit and Wagner looks like the best player in redraft of that class..

During pre-draft, I recall responding to people who claimed Franz wasn’t athletic enough for the NBA (hmm, it couldnt be because of his skin color that they judged him like that… no way)

[mo7888]

During pre-draft, I recall responding to people who claimed Franz wasn’t athletic enough for the NBA (hmm, it couldnt be because of his skin color that they judged him like that… no way)

Lol... I'm pretty sure you and I were very high on him from the get-go... I had him #4 on my BB and, in hindsight, that was to low...this was my top 15-

1. Cade Cunningham
2. Evan Mobley
3. Jonathan Kuminga
4. Franz Wagner
5. Jalen Green
6. Scottie Barnes
7. Jalen Suggs
8. Moses Moody
9. Alperen Sengun
10. James Bouknight
11. Jalen Johnson
12. Kai Jones
13. Corey Kispert
14. Isaiah Jackson
15. Chris Duarte

[exstatic]

Toronto fans are done with Scottie Banes, or more to the point, Nick Nurses roster of 13 PFs and two guards, few of whom can shoot.

[Proxy]

Kawhi is watching this lottery. Hope he goes back to San Antonio if Victor is drafted by them. Tired of him being on the "DNP" list for seasons.

absolutely not, dude still can't wipe his own ass

gg to dennis for milking ballmer and his nephew though

[Thomas82]

Yep, watching the magic of late I don't see any way we finish ahead of them. They are putting it together just a bit and Wagner looks like the best player in redraft of that class..

I feel the same way. I believe the Rockets will stay ahead of us and I won't rule out the Hornets and Pistons passing us when they get their star players back.

[scott]

Cade just had season-ending surgery, so we’ll see how the Pistons fare here on out.

[Thomas82]

Cade just had season-ending surgery, so we’ll see how the Pistons fare here on out.

So I guess it'll take a miracle for the Pistons then.

[Russ]

Cade just had season-ending surgery, so we’ll see how the Pistons fare here on out.

Most seasons someone like Cade is the number 1 pick.

Most seasons. (But this ain't most seasons.)

[JuneJive]

Pistons locked in on that 14%

[Thomas82]

Should there be a new article be coming out soon about how the Spurs have started pissing away their chance at Victor?

[slick'81]

No victor here

[Thomas82]

It's interesting (for lack of a better word) that every team in the Southwest division, except the Spurs, has had a top 5 pick every year since 2018, and both Memphis and Houston have had one in back-to-back years.

[exstatic]

It's interesting (for lack of a better word) that every team in the Southwest division, except the Spurs, has had a top 5 pick every year since 2018, and both Memphis and Houston have had one in back-to-back years.

Now, examine Memphis, and examine Houston. Only one knows how to draft.

[exstatic]

No victor here

That’s as ridiculous as saying he’s a sure thing.

[BatManu20]

Steph Curry out for a few weeks with a shoulder injury. Add the Warriors to the lottery mix smh.

[Seventyniner]

Steph Curry out for a few weeks with a shoulder injury. Add the Warriors to the lottery mix smh.

They're the defending champs and Steph is 34. No way they tank. Now it's possible they could fall into the play-in and lose there; any team can go cold for a game or two. But even then their odds of jumping into the top 4 would be very small.

[timtonymanu]

Steph Curry out for a few weeks with a shoulder injury. Add the Warriors to the lottery mix smh.

Goes to show how sad the league was last year when this team is the defending champs.

[Chomag]

With the lack of talent on this team Spurs really can't go wrong with any of the top 4 this draft, but yes this dude and even Scoots to a lesser extent has MVP all over him, and he is the player we are desperately needing to catapult the Spurs out of mediocrity .

It's still a long shot even if we are last in wins but it's still the best shot.

[daslicer]

Goes to show how sad the league was last year when this team is the defending champs.

They got lucky last year with their bracket. They faced a Jokic team that didn't have Murray or Porter. They faced a Grizzlies team that lost JA to injury after the first 3 games. They got lucky with a great matchup with the Mavs who shouldn't have been in the WCF, but the suns choked. Then they faced a mental midget in the Celtics. Very fluky run by them last year.

[Mr. Body]

They got lucky last year with their bracket. They faced a Jokic team that didn't have Murray or Porter. They faced a Grizzlies team that lost JA to injury after the first 3 games. They got lucky with a great matchup with the Mavs who shouldn't have been in the WCF, but the suns choked. Then they faced a mental midget in the Celtics. Very fluky run by them last year.

Yup. No respect for that championship. They got it because somebody gets it every year.

[CGD]

This thread is just bad karma. Can we delete?

[MultiTroll]

This thread is just bad karma. Can we delete?
:lol

"How the Spurs have already began preparing for Pop coaching at age 80"

[MultiTroll]

Yup. No respect for that championship. They got it because somebody gets it every year.
psssssh blow off

[Mr. Body]

psssssh blow off

Lol. Worst championship ever.

[MultiTroll]

Lol. Worst championship ever.
Right up there.

I rewatch Timmy Dunks and krew going at it with the Pistons in 2005 to see some real basketball.
Or 2014 altho the Heat were no match.

If we could only get a time capsule for 1986 Celts vs 2014 Spurs.

[dbestpro]

Watching Victor play makes me think that the NBA will have to return to the 7-foot centers to have a chance of slowing him down. He looks like Jabbar with a three-point shot. He will shoot over the top of all these small ball centers. He may not only be good for the team that selects him. He might be good for the game and the center position league-wide.

[exstatic]

Watching Victor play makes me think that the NBA will have to return to the 7-foot centers to have a chance of slowing him down. He looks like Jabbar with a three-point shot. He will shoot over the top of all these small ball centers. He may not only be good for the team that selects him. He might be good for the game and the center position league-wide.

At 7’4”, with his high release point, he’d shoot right over the top of Jabbar, or Olajuwon, or Robinson, or Mourning.

[The Truth #6]

Watching Victor play makes me think that the NBA will have to return to the 7-foot centers to have a chance of slowing him down. He looks like Jabbar with a three-point shot. He will shoot over the top of all these small ball centers. He may not only be good for the team that selects him. He might be good for the game and the center position league-wide.

I’m not opposed to a return to more dominant post play, but I’m not sure if Victor will create that trend. If anything, it sounds like the game will just continue to be perimeter oriented with him shooting three pointers mostly.

[rascal]

As long as the Spurs stay in the bottom three record wise, it's a successful season.

[MultiTroll]

As long as the Spurs stay in the bottom three record wise, it's a successful season.
Still very attainable.
But we'll see what happens the final month. :pop:

[ambchang]

It’s funny to see how spurs fans turn from whining about not going 82-0 to not going 0-82 in a matter of a few years.

[MultiTroll]

^ It's actually been over 5 years since Timmy retired and Kawhi got Zaza thus put an end to Pops coattail riding.

Seeing a chance for another potential Duncan is where it should be.

Calm down, i said potential.

[lmbebo]

not sure how they are planning for victor if they keep trying to win.

[offset formation]

As long as the Spurs stay in the bottom three record wise, it's a successful season.

Agreed, except we are in 4th. Detroit is a lock. Charlotte and Houston are going to be damn tough to dislodge. And we're flirting with 5th place by only a breath with Orlando. Any sort of run like we had at the beginning of the year and we could easily finish 7th or 8th.

It's why you have to get rid your cieling vets asap. Poeltl. Richardson. McDermott.

Let pop come up with the rest come from rotation choices on any given night.

Can't blow this. But we will.

[JPB]

Agreed, except we are in 4th. Detroit is a lock. Charlotte and Houston are going to be damn tough to dislodge. And we're flirting with 5th place by only a breath with Orlando. Any sort of run like we had at the beginning of the year and we could easily finish 7th or 8th.

It's why you have to get rid your cieling vets asap. Poeltl. Richardson. McDermott.

Let pop come up with the rest come from rotation choices on any given night.

Can't blow this. But we will.

I agree Detroit is in hardcore tanking mode and out out of reach, but still think spurs will end up bottom 3. Charlotte should win some more games and SA have the worst pt. diff in the entire NBA by far, which always speaks at the end of the season...

[slick'81]

I agree Detroit is in hardcore tanking mode and out out of reach, but still think spurs will end up bottom 3. Charlotte should win some more games and SA have the worst pt. diff in the entire NBA by far, which always speaks at the end of the season...


dont get my hopes up

[Mr. Body]

I don't think Houston or Detroit or any team is in tanking mode yet. It's a term with an actual definition. They just suck.

I'm still not clear on how you can prepare for a player you only have a 14% to get at best.

[slick'81]

I don't think Houston or Detroit or any team is in tanking mode yet. It's a term with an actual definition. They just suck.

I'm still not clear on how you can prepare for a player you only have a 14% to get at best.


yea,sounds like bs

[exstatic]

I agree Detroit is in hardcore tanking mode and out out of reach, but still think spurs will end up bottom 3. Charlotte should win some more games and SA have the worst pt. diff in the entire NBA by far, which always speaks at the end of the season...

Charlotte’s Kelly Oubre, who has played with a torn ligament in his shooting hand, and is scoring his career high in points, is undergoing surgery that will keep him out 4-6 weeks.

1610319113456390151

[slick'81]

Charlotte’s Kelly Oubre, who has played with a torn ligament in his shooting hand, and is scoring his career high in points, is undergoing surgery that will keep him out 4-6 weeks.

1610319113456390151


when are the hornets gonna start winning again?

[Mr. Body]

Charlotte's roster is a wreck. Their recent draft picks suck and they aint got much else.

[spurraider21]

It’s funny to see how spurs fans turn from whining about not going 82-0 to not going 0-82 in a matter of a few years.
purgatory is a worse option than either of those two

[exstatic]

Charlotte's roster is a wreck. Their recent draft picks suck and they aint got much else.

They’re negotiating with Bridges, who will have to serve some sort of suspension, but with Lamelo, Bridges, Oubre, and a high pick, they’ll be fine going forward.

[timvp]

Can't believe the mad lads in the front office pulled this off, tbh.

[EricB]

Spurfan gonna be sorely disappointed when we end up picking between 4-8 tbh.


hmmm

[EricB]

In poker terms spurs are roughly an Ace 10 suited against pocket aces preflop.

Flop turn river hit those suits baby

[EricB]

We're getting Wemby boys, don't even worry about it

shoulda just listened to this guy 😂

[BatManu20]

hmmm

Gladly eating crow. Feed me more tbh. Was prepared for the worst but hoped for the best. The sons of bitches really pulled it off. Incredible.

[EricB]

Gladly eating crow. Feed me more tbh. Was prepared for the worst but hoped for the best. The sons of bitches really pulled it off. Incredible.



nah, a lucky break with the lottery isn’t crow level imo tbh :hat

[rjv]

i refused to read this article when it was first posted because i just didn't want to entertain even the remote possibility that Wemby would wind up a Spur. with poeltl since traded after this article was written, one has to wonder if the Spurs feel that Zolins is an ample replacement for Jacob or if they plan to sign an FA that would complement Wemby. it's great to know that the spurs are already steps ahead in the process of getting Wemby situated with this current roster and coaching staff.

[ducks]

As long as the Spurs stay in the bottom three record wise, it's a successful season.

happy now

[kht]

This is totally absurd. How do you plan for the 14% scenario? Chances are you WON'T get the 1st and mathematically, we had the highest chance at getting the 6th-7th pick.

I can't even believe we got the 1st pick... all of those years we thought we had a chance to move up and steal the first pick, the year we won it is the year of the most hyped prospect since Lebron.

[TDomination]

nice bump

i hated reading this article. i felt like it was pointless. never did i think the spurs would be lucky enough ...again to get first pick. man still can't believe it. feels like a dream.

[ambchang]

So awesome with Wemby, I didn't think the Spurs would get it. While I know the probabilities are independent, but how likely is it for the same Franchise to draft 3 of the 5 most coveted players in the last 35 years (Lebron and Shaq being the other two, where the Spurs weren't even in the lottery)?

Looking forward to seeing how PATFO can build around Wemby. I'd be interested in how the Spurs can design an offence with enough space that can allow him to roam and avoid constant doubles/triples. It will likely be insane amounts of movement around the perimeter and total clear outs in the paint. it will be interesting.

[Ditty]

This article makes me so happy :flag:

Please come back soon Poeltl :cry

[John B]

I don’t want to think of the alternatives had the Spurs didn’t win the 1st pick. They were prepared to take their 14% chance on a unicorn and it paid off. And months prior, they’ve planned how they would start reconstructing the Spurs roster to suit Wemby. Months before they started playing Sochan at PG in anticipation of Wemby playing PF. Months before they traded Poeltl and opted for a more mobile center who can run and space Wemby. Months before they traded their vets to secure as many picks and capspace to use either to move up on the current draft if they have a player in mind, or use to trade for a caliber player(s) down the line. It’s meticulous planning with Wemby as the center piece, and these all happened months ago. That’s Spurs playing chess while the rest of the league are playing checkers :bobo

[ginobilized]

Wemby could not have gone to a better team. He knows this.

Can't wait to see what players will fit around Wemby.

Collins, Sochan, Vassell, and Tre Jones seem pretty natural.
KJ might slide into that 6th man energy guy role that he seems so well-suited to play.

I wonder if a Kevin Willis type center, if there is one, might be a nice asset. Enforcer, rebounder. Of course, point guard is up for grabs.

How does this team improve defensively? That's the big question. Wemby helps, but, there's still work to be done.

P.S.-It's nice to have a little break from all the doom/gloom over here. I'm sure that will return soon enough.

[Seventyniner]

Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.

This article outlines the preparation.

The lottery provided the opportunity.

The Spurs will always be viewed as lucky, but they have (more than) done their homework.

[CGD]

I do wonder what the strategy is now.

— Feel out and consolidation of talent year?
— Continue to acquire picks including via trading someone like Keldon and renting space?
— acceleration of the build?

[BackHome]

Probably all of the above I don't think they will make big moves with free agents unless it's getting a trade of a bad contract and draft pick. I think they will go into next year playing everyone and seeing who works with Wembys style and who doesn't. After his first year is when the focus will begin, but I am sure during the year they will be looking at what contracts they need to sign in the future and what big free agent they like and when they will be available.

I think they will be open to trades and the good thing is we in the cat bird seat for once it will be us calling the shots of what we want. I look forward to the season it will be nice to see how Wemby progresses with the team and how everyone else meshes with him throughout the season.