Spurs free agency targets

[spurraider21]

Wemby is nowhere near the kind of shooter nor ball-handler that Durant is and never will be, though. Opposing coaches would be happy with Wembanyama taking fadeaway jumpers over their forwards all day long, tbh.

Wemby isn't going to win games with his jumpshot and perimeter play on the NBA. He's gonna win them with his size and hability to do things at the center position, that other centers can't do. But for that to happen, you have to play him at center.
not if you have a stretch 5 like collins/lopez

and i didnt say he's as good a shooter or ball handler as durant. i dont think you have to be, if you are 7'4 without shoes. lebron isn't a center but he manages to do a lot of his damage in the paint with a good face up game. style of play will dictate how he gets his more so than what position you list him at.

heck, if you force a smaller defender onto wemby, you then take full advantage of his freakish size. if you want teams to guard him with bigs, his primary advantage on them will be his handling and shooting, which is the part of his game you seem to be down on the most

[DAF86]

not if you have a stretch 5 like collins/lopez

Collins and Lopez aren't the same thing. It isn't only about being able to shoot the outside jumper on offense. It is being able to play on the perimeter without getting exposed as a stiff. Sure, on offense you can have Lopez stand on the 3 pt line to provide spacing. He still won't be able to do a lot of the other things that a forward can do like drive and kick, stay with guys on the perimeter, run a fastbreak, etc.


and i didnt say he's as good a shooter or ball handler as durant. i dont think you have to be, if you are 7'4 without shoes

Well, you were the one that brought up the Durant comparisson. The 7'4" without shoes will get optimized the closer to the basket he plays, not if the stands on the perimeter shooting 3's at a 28% clip.

[DAF86]

heck, if you force a smaller defender onto wemby, you then take full advantage of his freakish size. if you want teams to guard him with bigs, his primary advantage on them will be his handling and shooting, which is the part of his game you seem to be down on the most

Wemby will be guarded by the guy best suited to guard him from opposing teams no matter who he plays with, so that point is moot. My whole argument is that the closer he plays to the hoop, the better. That's where he will get easier % shots. Where he will get more blocks opportunities. Where he will get more rebounds opportunites. More putback. More lobs. More rolls to the basket. Etc.

[spurraider21]

Wemby will be guarded by the guy best suited to guard him from opposing teams no matter who he plays with, so that point is moot. My whole argument is that the closer he plays to the hoop, the better. That's where he will get easier % shots. Where he will get more blocks opportunities. Where he will get more rebounds opportunites. More putback. More lobs. More rolls to the basket. Etc.
if that person "best suited to guard him" is their traditional center, and then the spurs also have somebody else like yak on the floor, its still going to force them to basically play another center or else yak is going to just clean up on the offensive glass.

[spurraider21]

Collins and Lopez aren't the same thing. It isn't only about being able to shoot the outside jumper on offense. It is being able to play on the perimeter without getting exposed as a stiff. Sure, on offense you can have Lopez stand on the 3 pt line to provide spacing. He still won't be able to do a lot of the other things that a forward can do like drive and kick, stay with guys on the perimeter, run a fastbreak, etc.



Well, you were the one that brought up the Durant comparisson. The 7'4" without shoes will get optimized the closer to the basket he plays, not if the stands on the perimeter shooting 3's at a 28% clip.
i must have missed the part where i said not being a center means you just have to camp out behind the 3 point line and launch bombs

[DAF86]

if that person "best suited to guard him" is their traditional center, and then the spurs also have somebody else like yak on the floor, its still going to force them to basically play another center or else yak is going to just clean up on the offensive glass.

Very rarely the guy best suited to guard Wemby will be the other's team center, that's exactly why playing a center alongside him would be a matchup nullifier.

[Spurs Homer]

Wemby is nowhere near the kind of shooter nor ball-handler that Durant is, though, and never will be. Opposing coaches would be happy with Wembanyama taking fadeaway jumpers over their forwards all day long, tbh.

Wemby isn't going to win games with his jumpshot and perimeter play on the NBA. He's gonna win them with his size and hability to do things at the center position, that other centers can't do. But for that to happen, you have to play him at center.

Wemby actually patterns a big part of his game after Durant and if you have watched any filmmof wemby- he might not have durants handles or shooting yet- but he actually isnt that far away from surpassing durant…

and if you research the training program he is on- it is not that much of a stretch to think he might just have the work ethic to surpass durant.

So i would not be too sure about that, “never will be” assertion you made.

[exstatic]

Collins and Lopez aren't the same thing. It isn't only about being able to shoot the outside jumper on offense. It is being able to play on the perimeter without getting exposed as a stiff. Sure, on offense you can have Lopez stand on the 3 pt line to provide spacing. He still won't be able to do a lot of the other things that a forward can do like drive and kick, stay with guys on the perimeter, run a fastbreak, etc.



Well, you were the one that brought up the Durant comparisson. The 7'4" without shoes will get optimized the closer to the basket he plays, not if the stands on the perimeter shooting 3's at a 28% clip.

His FTs (a good indicator of consistent shooting form) are at 83%, and TaT has his projected NBA 3G% at 36.5. He was allowed to do whatever he wanted at Mets92, including shooting those awful 1 footed runner 3 pointers. That will stop when he gets here.

[exstatic]

Very rarely the guy best suited to guard Wemby will be the other's team center, that's exactly why playing a center alongside him would be a matchup nullifier.

He's a mismatch, no matter who's guarding him. His best current analog is Chet Holmgren, and he owned him when they played.

[DAF86]

Wemby actually patterns a big part of his game after Durant and if you have watched any filmmof wemby- he might not have durants handles or shooting yet- but he actually isnt that far away from surpassing durant…

and if you research the training program he is on- it is not that much of a stretch to think he might just have the work ethic to surpass durant.

So i would not be too sure about that, “never will be” assertion you made.

Do you really expect Wemby to ever become a 50% 40% 90% shooter?

I think it's very unrealistic to expect that. And even if he did, him playing like Durant would be a great disservice to his 8'1" wingspan and all the other things he excells at like rim protection and finishing around the hoop.

[DAF86]

His FTs (a good indicator of consistent shooting form) are at 83%, and TaT has his projected NBA 3G% at 36.5. He was allowed to do whatever he wanted at Mets92, including shooting those awful 1 footed runner 3 pointers. That will stop when he gets here.

Sure, I fully expect him to be an above average 3pt shooter. That still is far away from a Kevin Durant in terms of shooting, though.

[spurraider21]

as a rookie in the nba, KD hit 29% of his 3's

[K...]

Considering wemby can dunk like a fish in water, no he does not need to shoot well. Wemby is like if steve nash were shaq. People get hung up on forcing wemby into existing roles. Let him do whatever and force defenders to adapt

Oh and lol at “best wemby defender“ like its easy to stop him without doubles.

[Extra Stout]

I’m confused. I thought Wemby was the alien freak breaking defenders’ ankles with crossover dribbles and spin moves to slash into the paint for dunks. I thought he was the guy who blew by his defender to rebound-dunk his own missed 3. I thought he was the guy who shot unblockable delicious impossibly-arced rainbow jumpers. I thought that’s why he was the greatest prospect since LeBron. Not because he has pretty good handles “for a center.” Not because he’s quick “for a center.” Not because he shot pretty well “for a center.”

[spurraider21]

there are no direct comparisons to wemby because he truly is a unicorn. when i think of offensive scorers who take the most advantage of their length/wingspan and skill, i mainly think of giannis/durant/AD. of the 3, AD is the only one who plays center (or at least, doesnt typically play alongside another center), and even then, he's gone back and forth throughout his career. he played a lot more forward earlier in his career when he was skinny (plays at ~255 now and was ~220 when he was drafted).

[DAF86]

as a rookie in the nba, KD hit 29% of his 3's

And 40% in college. Wemby isn't averaging 28% in the NBA 3 pt line, he's doing it in Fiba, the equivalent of college. Are folks really expecting Wemby to become an all-time great shooter? :lol

[DAF86]

I’m confused. I thought Wemby was the alien freak breaking defenders’ ankles with crossover dribbles and spin moves to slash into the paint for dunks. I thought he was the guy who blew by his defender to rebound-dunk his own missed 3. I thought he was the guy who shot unblockable delicious impossibly-arced rainbow jumpers. I thought that’s why he was the greatest prospect since LeBron. Not because he has pretty good handles “for a center.” Not because he’s quick “for a center.” Not because he shot pretty well “for a center.”

If Wemby were 6'3" nobody would be talking about his ball-handling, quickness nor shooting, tbh. So, yeah, the fact that he can do all those things WHILE being 7'4" is what makes him a unicorn. Not those skills in and of themselves, tbh.

[exstatic]

Sure, I fully expect him to be an above average 3pt shooter. That still is far away from a Kevin Durant in terms of shooting, though.

He doesn't have to be as good a shooter, because he will be a lob man and roll threat in a way that KG never really was on a consistent basis. PFs do that. His overall FG% will be higher because he'll be dunking so much. Maybe not Durant's numbers, but I can see him being 55/40/80 at some point. His only concern on the 3 is form. KD had to worry about the occasion AD or Gobert contest/block. No one is blocking Wemby at the arc.

[exstatic]

If Wemby were 6'3" nobody would be talking about his ball-handling, quickness nor shooting, tbh. So, yeah, the fact that can do all those things WHILE being 7'4" is what makes him a unicorn. Not those skills in and of themselves, tbh.

Master of the obvious. No one would be talking about KD's skill set at 6'3", either.

[DAF86]

He doesn't have to be as good a shooter, because he will be a lob man and roll threat in a way that KG never really was on a consistent basis. PFs do that. His overall FG% will be higher because he'll be dunking so much. Maybe not Durant's numbers, but I can see him being 55/40/80 at some point. His only concern on the 3 is form. KD had to worry about the occasion AD or Gobert contest/block. No one is blocking Wemby at the arc.

I don't see Wemby ever becoming a 40% 3 pt shooter, tbh. At least not in high volume.

[DAF86]

Master of the obvious. No one would be talking about KD's skill set at 6'3", either.

The kind of shooting KD has is great at any height. That's exactly the point.

[DAF86]

there are no direct comparisons to wemby because he truly is a unicorn. when i think of offensive scorers who take the most advantage of their length/wingspan and skill, i mainly think of giannis/durant/AD. of the 3, AD is the only one who plays center (or at least, doesnt typically play alongside another center), and even then, he's gone back and forth throughout his career. he played a lot more forward earlier in his career when he was skinny (plays at ~255 now and was ~220 when he was drafted).

Giannis is the Bucks' center, tbh. Since Shaq nobody averaged more pts per game in the paint. On defense he's playing center more and more too.

Also, guys like Durant and Giannis are more mobile than Wemby on the perimeter. The kid has great mobility for a 7'4" guy, but he's still 7'4".

[Extra Stout]

There’s still a disconnect here. Ralph Sampson was 7’4”. Kristaps Porzingis is 7’3”. They did or do amazing things for players their height. The player you’re describing is those guys.

[Extra Stout]

There’s still a disconnect here. Ralph Sampson was 7’4”. Kristaps Porzingis is 7’3”. They did or do amazing things for players their height. The player you’re describing is those guys.

And if that’s all he is then we’ve wasted our time this week being excited about a generational talent. Because neither of those guys were that even before they got hurt. They were All-Star caliber, nothing more.

[exstatic]

I don't see Wemby ever becoming a 40% 3 pt shooter, tbh. At least not in high volume.

Well, to be fair, KD isn't for his career, nor is he a 50/40/90 guy. KD shoots 38.5%, and I think Wemby The Unblockable can hit that. YMMV.

[exstatic]

The kind of shooting KD has is great at any height. That's exactly the point.

He'd be just another borderline A.S. guard in a flock of them, competing with Booker for a spot in the game.

[exstatic]

The kind of shooting KD has is great at any height. That's exactly the point.

Nobody is terrified of a 6'3" guy who shoots a career 38.5% from long. They're terrified of a 6'11" guy who does that, though.

[Mugen]

hopefully its a midnight offer sheet. put the lakers on the clock. they are going to want to abuse his low cap hold to make some maneuvers. forcing an accelerated timeline could really screw them

This. I'd like the Spurs to make an offer but, not just to F over LA, cuz I think he's legitimately good and would be a good fit with Wemby tbh.

[spurraider21]

And 40% in college. Wemby isn't averaging 28% in the NBA 3 pt line, he's doing it in Fiba, the equivalent of college. Are folks really expecting Wemby to become an all-time great shooter? :lol
college 3 point line was way closer when durant was in college, so thats not a good comparison. when durant was in college, the 3 point line was less than 20 feet lol

[exstatic]

college 3 point line was way closer when durant was in college, so thats not a good comparison. when durant was in college, the 3 point line was less than 20 feet lol

19'9" or 19'6" I think.

[Extra Stout]

Nobody is terrified of a 6'3" guy who shoots a career 38.5% from long. They're terrified of a 6'11" guy who does that, though.
Yes, because the 6’11” guy can get that shot whenever he wants, whereas the 6’3” guy needs the offense to get him open.

How much more the 7’4” guy than the 6’11” guy.

Rim, paint, either hand, midrange, 3-point line. Unguardable in any of those spots. Could get 15 field goals on 15 different shots. THAT is what makes him a unicorn.

[Mugen]

Few years down the road, the team is going to be at its best when Sochan/Wemby are manning the 4/5 spots. Doesn't have to be Wemby at the 5, could easily be Sochan banging down low with Wemby roaming a la Hachimura/AD.

Add a couple of 3+D guys and another playmaker/initiator, and that team should be on the contender list if Wemby pans out as advertised tbh.

[DAF86]

There’s still a disconnect here. Ralph Sampson was 7’4”. Kristaps Porzingis is 7’3”. They did or do amazing things for players their height. The player you’re describing is those guys.

Do you really think folks talk about Wemby's shooting because of his 47%, 28% splits? Or because he pairs that hability with a 7'4" frame?

If you want to talk soley about skills, without taking into account the height/length, the truth is that the only thing that Wemby is really elite at right now is shot blocking. Which is fine. Wemby's value isn't on being elite at eberything, it's being good at everything with the potential of getting even better while being 7'4".

[Extra Stout]

Do you really think folks talk about Wemby's shooting because of his 47%, 28% splits? Or because he pairs that hability with a 7'4" frame?

If you want to talk soley about skills, without taking into account the height/length, the truth is that the only thing that Wemby is really elite at right now is shot blocking. Which is fine. Wemby's value isn't on being elite at eberything, it's being good at everything with the potential of getting even better while being 7'4".
OK, that’s the disconnect. I don’t expect a 19-year-old to be elite at a bunch of things. I project what he is going to be in three years based upon the tools he displays and his progression to date now at 19.

[CGD]

Mo Bamba anyone?

[Vince Carter's ankle]

may 22 on the calendar
the next season starts in october
chill out

[heyheymymy]

Spurs will figure it out

If you play a lengthy SF say bring back KBD you can play Sochan at PF and Victor at "C" but not traditional center and let Victor basically play a fluid PF roaming the perimeter and taking select opportunities around the rim with SA teaching Victor when and in what situations to operate towards and around the rim.

But with Sochan basically slotting PF but de facto C with the added length of a long SF like KBD to compensate size on the glass and interior defense with Victor essentially fluid floating around the backcourt choosing his moments wisely into the frontcourt

Put some shooter guards around that like Graham/Vassell or toolkit guards like Graham/Bran for inside outside comprehensive offense or throw Wesley in there on some combo or guards for defense

[TD 21]

Very rarely the guy best suited to guard Wemby will be the other's team center, that's exactly why playing a center alongside him would be a matchup nullifier.

Whether Wembanama plays next to another C or not, teams will still primarily just put their best big wing defender on him and have their C defend (by ignoring) Sochan or whoever.

Agreed though that offensively, all of the hybrid bigs are better, as is the team offense, when they play as the lone true big.

For now though, it's fine to primarily start Collins and play Bassey some alongside too.

[duncan2150]

Not a big fan but could coby white be a good target ? he was good for the bulls at the end of the season, can shoot, pass but not high on the D.

[TD 21]

Not a big fan but could coby white be a good target ? he was good for the bulls at the end of the season, can shoot, pass but not high on the D.

Restricted. Spurs would probably have to overpay to get them to walk away (career season and they lack young talent).

More of an SG/6th man type than a starting PG though. I'd pass.

[heyheymymy]

Could also see a lot of games where Victor starts at PF first half but let Sochan start at PF at the beginning of the second half so both get a start so to speak with the best performer of the two in the closer lineup at the end of the 4th Q.

This also build in light load management for Victor if that is a priority of SA staff.

[heyheymymy]

One thing that is attractive about Sochan off the bench is one of Victor or Sochan in at all times. Pretty next level to sub out Wemby and you get a fresh Sochan to put in and not skip a beat. Nasty.

And I think it's hard to put a #9 pick on the bench but Jeremy seems like the wise cool cat to be chill and team first enough to be alright with that. Puts him in line for a 6MOTY possibly if that's a sales pitch? He could feast on bench scrubs and pad stats if that's how you sell it to him.

[DAF86]

college 3 point line was way closer when durant was in college, so thats not a good comparison. when durant was in college, the 3 point line was less than 20 feet lol

That doesn't take away from the fact that your "Durant was a 29% 3pt shooter in his rookie season" was irrelevant for the Wemby comparisson, because we don't know what Wemby's 3pt% will be in his rookie season. So far we can only compare pre-NBA stats. Very rarely a guy that got into the league without already being a good jumpshooter, became an all-time great shooter in the NBA. Guys like Durant, Curry, Nash, Miller, Allen, etc. all got to the NBA as great shooters. The chances of Wemby becoming a Durant type shooter are slim to none.

[DAF86]

He'd be just another borderline A.S. guard in a flock of them, competing with Booker for a spot in the game.

Well, and Wemby wouldn't even be on the NBA shooting at 28% clip at 6'3". That's why what makes Wemby a generational talent is the complete package, being his size the most predominant aspect of that package.

[DAF86]

OK, that’s the disconnect. I don’t expect a 19-year-old to be elite at a bunch of things. I project what he is going to be in three years based upon the tools he displays and his progression to date now at 19.

And do you really expect him to be elite at shooting in 3 years? I don't. I expect him to be slightly above average. But that's fine because at the end of the day what will make Wemby elite will be his size.

[spurraider21]

you keep making it sound like im saying wemby is literally just durant but taller. i'm not.


and i didnt say he's as good a shooter or ball handler as durant. i dont think you have to be, if you are 7'4 without shoes

there is no direct 1:1 comparison for wemby. all we are trying to do is guess what his style of play will look like by looking at some of the closest analogs to him. durant is being used as a reference because he is a very long/wiry player who has a comparable skill set to wemby. thats not to say wemby is as good as durant in those skills.

the only other comp i can really think of is anthony davis (but when he was younger and not as bulky as he is now)

[DAF86]

Then why the comparisson with Durant? An Anthony Davis comparisson would be more reasonable.

[spurraider21]

Then why the comparisson with Durant? An Anthony Davis comparisson would be more reasonable.
and ive already compared him to anthony davis as well during this discussion while pointing out that davis also largely played PF before bulking up in more recent years

[spurraider21]

there are no direct comparisons to wemby because he truly is a unicorn. when i think of offensive scorers who take the most advantage of their length/wingspan and skill, i mainly think of giannis/durant/AD. of the 3, AD is the only one who plays center (or at least, doesnt typically play alongside another center), and even then, he's gone back and forth throughout his career. he played a lot more forward earlier in his career when he was skinny (plays at ~255 now and was ~220 when he was drafted).

[DAF86]

and ive already compared him to anthony davis as well during this discussion while pointing out that davis also largely played PF before bulking up in more recent years

In a different NBA. In the early 2010's Kendrick Perkins was still playable.

All I'm saying is that folks expecting Wembanyama to be the second coming of Kevin Durant are in for a rude awakening. They really have little in common. Anthony Davis is definitely the best comparisson available.

[objective]

What is Wemby's three point % when you take out all the BS heat check "exploring the studio space" crossover step back one legged threes with 10+ seconds on the shot clock?

Looks to me like his percentage is dragged down from him whack youthful shot selection, shooting whenever and however he wants.

[Degoat]

There’s some okay-ish guys at PG to take a flyer on in this free agency but I almost think it’s better just to ride with Tre Jones, Wesley, and maybe use 33 on a combo guard

[spurraider21]

In a different NBA. In the early 2010's Kendrick Perkins was still playable.

All I'm saying is that folks expecting Wembanyama to be the second coming of Kevin Durant are in for a rude awakening. They really have little in common. Anthony Davis is definitely the best comparisson available.
davis won a championship with the lakers in 2020 starting alongside dwight howard

[spurraider21]

What is Wemby's three point % when you take out all the BS heat check "exploring the studio space" crossover step back one legged threes with 10+ seconds on the shot clock?

Looks to me like his percentage is dragged down from him whack youthful shot selection, shooting whenever and however he wants.
its not that uncommon for players to come into the league and not be great/efficient shooters right away. things you typically will look at are the shooting stroke and FT% as indicators of potential growth there. and even then, it often comes down to a question of work ethic (like sochan/kawhi)

wemby has a very smooth, repeatable shooting motion with a great release point, follow through, etc. and he hits over 80% of his FTs

[Leetonidas]

Would y'all be interested in taking on Fournier for a season to get Wemby a fellow Frenchmen on the roster? He's not a FA but I'm sure the Knicks would love dumping him

[Mr. Body]

Would y'all be interested in taking on Fournier for a season to get Wemby a fellow Frenchmen on the roster? He's not a FA but I'm sure the Knicks would love dumping him

Why?

[Leetonidas]

Why?

Veteran shooter and, like I said, a fellow Frenchman. Wemby might appreciate SA looking to add french vets to help guide him in his first season

[spurraider21]

Would y'all be interested in taking on Fournier for a season to get Wemby a fellow Frenchmen on the roster? He's not a FA but I'm sure the Knicks would love dumping him
if its basically a dump and we're not giving anything notable up, sure, though i wonder if we can make more effective use of that cap space. we werent able to make much of it last year, maybe some better luck this season

[Mr. Body]

Veteran shooter and, like I said, a fellow Frenchman. Wemby might appreciate SA looking to add french vets to help guide him in his first season

He speaks English probably better than most of the people on this board.

[Leetonidas]

if its basically a dump and we're not giving anything notable up, sure, though i wonder if we can make more effective use of that cap space. we werent able to make much of it last year, maybe some better luck this season

I would think they want to dump his salary so it probably wouldn't take much especially since we can just absorb him into space and he has a team option in '25. I just don't think the Spurs are going to do shit with their cap space again, which is fine, but if not then adding a French vet to the roster might not be a bad idea.

[mo7888]

I would think they want to dump his salary so it probably wouldn't take much especially since we can just absorb him into space and he has a team option in '25. I just don't think the Spurs are going to do shit with their cap space again, which is fine, but if not then adding a French vet to the roster might not be a bad idea.

I'd take him if NY is paying us enough in draft picks...

[heyheymymy]

Fournier is only 18.8MM next season now (23-24), the 19MM for 24-25 is team option

So Evan is no longer the contractual burden that would necessitate additional draft capital to incentivize a trade and therefore not really worth it unless you just really like Fournier the player without picks as a sweetener and I don't know if SA views Evan as that kind of a difference maker enough to want to do that deal.

[heyheymymy]

In fact NYK might keep Fournier now that he is essentially an expiring and as such, a valuable asset at the deadline.

[mo7888]

Fournier is only 18.8MM next season now (23-24), the 19MM for 24-25 is team option

So Evan is no longer the contractual burden that would necessitate additional draft capital to incentivize a trade and therefore not really worth it unless you just really like Fournier the player without picks as a sweetener and I don't know if SA views Evan as that kind of a difference maker enough to want to do that deal.

NY will want to make moves and they'll need to unload him to do so, most likely in a 3 team deal with the team getting Fournier also getting a 1st and only sending back cap space.

[Mr. Body]

We assuming they're best buddies because they're French? Why don't we sign Marion Cotillard or Isabelle Huppert?

[heyheymymy]

Indeed if NYK is moving stuff around a bit I could see Fournier on the trade block then. Good call.

I mean Evan def does still seem like dead weight just not as much financially now that his contract has proceeded through the bulk of it. Just feel like at least the financial urgency of it has receded but that's not the full picture of it team fit wise.

[Chinook]

We assuming they're best buddies because they're French? Why don't we sign Marion Cotillard or Isabelle Huppert?

I could actually see Sochan and Wemby getting along pretty well. I also assume that the team will bring in some French players, especially onto the SL team and maybe in camp. Whether it's Tim's friends, Tony's and Manu's national team teammates, Kawhi's college buddy or even Keldon's brother, the Spurs have a tradition of catering to their top players I don't expect the Spurs to feel compelled to bring over some old-ass French dude Wemby's probably never spoken to. But there are likely guys on the various teams he's played on that show some inkling of potential. Like less than Bilal. Those are the likely guys who'd be on in the system right now, and as everyone matures, we'll see a few others get tryouts and two-ways over the years.

[Degoat]

I was thinking Frank Ntilikina as an ally for Wemby in the spurs jk or am I? Lol

[Mr. Body]

I find it bizarre but kind of cute that you guys are trying to find friends for Wemby like it's his first day at kindergarten.

[Degoat]

I find it bizarre but kind of cute that you guys are trying to find friends for Wemby like it's his first day at kindergarten.

Well he is just a kid moving across the world…

[Mr. Body]

Maybe they can bring Kylian Mbappe over for a play date. They can play Legos and have peanut butter sandwiches with the crusts cut off.

[exstatic]

Then why the comparisson with Durant? An Anthony Davis comparisson would be more reasonable.

Anthony Davis isn’t a shot creator. He needs the ball fed to him in his spots.

[Spurs Homer]

Do you really expect Wemby to ever become a 50% 40% 90% shooter?

I think it's very unrealistic to expect that. And even if he did, him playing like Durant would be a great disservice to his 8'1" wingspan and all the other things he excells at like rim protection and finishing around the hoop.

todays nba is not about centers and big men playing like big men…

the rules have been changed to help offensive players score and score and score

yes, wemby will block shots and intimidate in the paint but he will not limit himself to old nba - big man must stay in the paint and not continue to develop his overall game

i do think - by all accounts- he is aiming for dominance and he is absolutely trying to be a durant type offensive player- he said it himself and he watches film of durant all the time according to him

[DAF86]

todays nba is not about centers and big men playing like big men…

the rules have been changed to help offensive players score and score and score

yes, wemby will block shots and intimidate in the paint but he will not limit himself to old nba - big man must stay in the paint and not continue to develop his overall game

i do think - by all accounts- he is aiming for dominance and he is absolutely trying to be a durant type offensive player- he said it himself and he watches film of durant all the time according to him

I would argue that the 4 most dominant players right now are Jokic, Giannis, Embiid and Davis. All players that make most of their damage inside.

[Spurs Homer]

I would argue that the 4 most dominant players right now are Jokic, Giannis, Embiid and Davis. All players that make most of their damage inside.

i guess we will see…

giannis is a shitty shooter tbh
davis is a choker and soft as baby poop
embiid is great until he gets infected with the chris paul annual playoff injury
joker is probably better all around right now

[objective]

We assuming they're best buddies because they're French? Why don't we sign Marion Cotillard or Isabelle Huppert?

We need Isabelle Adjani in silver and black going berserk

[scott]

I find it bizarre but kind of cute that you guys are trying to find friends for Wemby like it's his first day at kindergarten.

If we’re finding friends for him, let’s definitely make sure it’s Marion Cotillard

[EricB]

Cam Johnson.

Re sign Tre Jones.

if you can get Mike Conley for a decent price go for it.

[heyheymymy]

Besides, NYK wanting to offload Fournier and the Spurs wanting to obtain Fournier are two different things.

Again, wouldn't be surprised if Knicks indeed wanted Evan gone in a roster retool but still not sure that the ship hasn't sailed on Spurs interest which may have been more tantalizing when viewed as a salary dump that came with picks morso than anything they liked about Fournier the player.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Austin Reaves

Don't overpay though

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

I wouldn't want Fournier because he truly is done as a player, however, Batum is there for the taking. Clippers are already at a $200+ mil payroll for next season and have a lot of players under contract. Batum is on an expiring 11 mil contract and I believe it'd be beneficial for both teams if the Spurs get him into cap space for a second or two, of which they have a ton of spare ones.

Not only would Batum be helping Wemby off the court, but he'd be a useful vet on it as well in a 15-20 minute role.

[RC_Drunkford]

I like the Batum idea. That would be a nice vet on the team who also plays the right way. I wouldn't want him to play a lot of minutes though

[Dejounte]

I don’t mind Batum playing a lot of minutes, especially if there isn’t a developmental player behind him. Like, I would rather play him over KBD provided he isn’t washed up.

[CGD]

Cam Johnson.

Re sign Tre Jones.

if you can get Mike Conley for a decent price go for it.

- Extend Vassell ideally on a descending deal.
- find a Mo Bamba type to compete at C

[Ocotillo]

I could actually see Sochan and Wemby getting along pretty well. I also assume that the team will bring in some French players, especially onto the SL team and maybe in camp. Whether it's Tim's friends, Tony's and Manu's national team teammates, Kawhi's college buddy or even Keldon's brother, the Spurs have a tradition of catering to their top players I don't expect the Spurs to feel compelled to bring over some old-ass French dude Wemby's probably never spoken to. But there are likely guys on the various teams he's played on that show some inkling of potential. Like less than Bilal. Those are the likely guys who'd be on in the system right now, and as everyone matures, we'll see a few others get tryouts and two-ways over the years.

To add to your examples, I recall Davis Bertans brother being on the summer league team and maybe a brief stint with the Austin Spurs.

[lmbebo]

- Extend Vassell ideally on a descending deal.
- find a Mo Bamba type to compete at C


Mo bamba probably getting cut by Lakers I thought I heard

[Extra Stout]

https://hoopswire.com/draft-rumors-spurs-victor-wembanyama-hornets-mavs/

Link to an article with a blurb saying that the Spurs’ FA priorities are a veteran PF and a veteran C.

With Collins, Bassey, and then a couple of acquisitions, it seems the priority is to keep Wemby from getting pushed around his rookie year.

[onechance87]

https://hoopswire.com/draft-rumors-spurs-victor-wembanyama-hornets-mavs/ (https://hoopswire.com/draft-rumors-spurs-victor-wembanyama-hornets-mavs/)

Link to an article with a blurb saying that the Spurs’ FA priorities are a veteran PF and a veteran C.

With Collins, Bassey, and then a couple of acquisitions, it seems the priority is to keep Wemby from getting pushed around his rookie year.

If true....Wonder what veteran big man do we bring that will help wemby....my first choice would be lopez...but think hes staying with bucks

[YoungbuckMurray]

Would porzingis make some sense? He can play C with Wemby at PF. Would be incredible spacing and 3 point shooting from our bigs

[exstatic]

Would porzingis make some sense? He can play C with Wemby at PF. Would be incredible spacing and 3 point shooting from our bigs

Most of Porzingas' problems cam from playing center. It took four years after he moved to the perimeter for him to get back up to 65 games.

[CGD]

If true....Wonder what veteran big man do we bring that will help wemby....my first choice would be lopez...but think hes staying with bucks

there is alway Robyn Lopez...

[JPB]

Cam Johnson.

Re sign Tre Jones.

if you can get Mike Conley for a decent price go for it.

Conley has one year left at 24M (14M guaranteed + the rest 2 days after draft). Not sure what Minny and his intentions are with him since he has a real impact on the team. They traded Russel for him and also got a bunch of SRPs but not sure also what it would take to get him but yeah, Conley would be nice.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

The whole point of having a 7'4" guy that can dribble and shoot is causing matchup problems. If you play that 7'4" guy always on the perimiter and pair him with a traditional center, you wouldn't be creating any matchup problem.

In what league does Wemby get to dictate who the defense checks him with? And on what planet is a power forward a perimeter player?

We are not and should not going to ask Wemby to guard Embiid and Davis. He would be much more effective rotating to help another big in that situation. Leverage his shotblocking as opposed to exposing his lack of weight.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Why is no one talking about Poeltl or VanFleet?

[spurraider21]

Mo bamba probably getting cut by Lakers I thought I heard
my guess is they retain him. there are scenarios where they can get under the cap to try to make a FA signing (and only then re-sign Reaves using bird rights and taking advantage of his tiny cap hold), but even if they release both non-guaranteed guys, and renounce everyone else including Russell and Hachimura, the most cap space they can generate for free agents is something in the range of 26 mil or so, which isnt going to be enough to sign a Kyrie or anything like that. at which point, they're probably just better off staying above the cap, retaining Hachimura, Beasley, Bamba, and figuring out what they want to do with Russell

[spurraider21]

Why is no one talking about Poeltl or VanFleet?
that convos been dead for a while, but a few posters, including chinook and myself, have floated the idea of going after Poeltl or Brook Lopez. not to mention, timvp had previously reported that the spurs were pretty hesitant to move poeltl because they thought he'd be a great fit with Wemby, so we know the brass likes the idea as well. while hes a FA and fair game, if the spurs do go after and land poellt, i wonder if there will be whispers around the league that the spurs and poeltl somewhat pre-arranged it

personally not a fan of vanvleet though

[baknedkly]

I believe Porzingas would be a great pickup for the Spurs. He can play PF or C position depending on whether Wembanyama is on the floor or not. There is only a few players in the league that are actual bangers at the C position so I don’t think playing limited minutes at C would be an issue too much. Also would go past having twin towers to skyscrapers in the lineup so we could funnel drives into the lane where 2 7’3+ guys are waiting. He can mentor Wembanyama in the unicorn way since he was dubbed the first unicorn and just give him advice. With his ability to score in the post and mid range but also space the floor out to the 3 point line would help open the floor up while also allowing Wembanyama to come along slowly and not be the focal scorer all the time.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

that convos been dead for a while, but a few posters, including chinook and myself, have floated the idea of going after Poeltl or Brook Lopez. not to mention, timvp had previously reported that the spurs were pretty hesitant to move poeltl because they thought he'd be a great fit with Wemby, so we know the brass likes the idea as well. while hes a FA and fair game, if the spurs do go after and land poellt, i wonder if there will be whispers around the league that the spurs and poeltl somewhat pre-arranged it

personally not a fan of vanvleet though

I figure Poeltl makes a lot of sense too. And looking more VanFleet cannot shoot so hard pass.

[spurraider21]

I figure Poeltl makes a lot of sense too. And looking more VanFleet cannot shoot so hard pass.
shooting is probably the thing he does best. his percentage is low, but on the raptors he was kind of a chucker, never seeing a shot he didnt like. in a different situation/role, he'd probably be much more efficient. his shot selection from 3 actually looks quite a bit like what we saw out of devonte graham. the problem is he used to also be a pesky defender, but he doesnt bring that to the table anymore.

[Degoat]

I have a feeling the spurs will show interest in Nikola Vucevic tbh seems like a move they’d make

[CGD]

I have a feeling the spurs will show interest in Nikola Vucevic tbh seems like a move they’d make

I pray not. He provides zero resistance on defense. Would prefer Mo Bamba, even though he’s a bit of a dumb dumb.

[mystargtr34]

Vucevic is disgustingly bad at defense. Don’t think you can turn him into a net positive player simply due to those deficiencies. He’s no where near good enough on offense to overcome those deficiencies.

[Vic Petro]

Naz Reid has some enforcer qualities

[mystargtr34]

I like the idea of Jakob though. The thought of him and Wemby protecting the rim with Sochan roaming all over the court gives me 2003 Spurs vibes with Duncan-Robinson-Bowen.

Spacing on offense becomes somewhat of an issue with Jak-Sochan-Tre.

Brook Lopez might be a decent option. Similar defense to Jakob with a different profile on offense. Floor spacer but not as effective as Jakob as a roller to the basket.

Third option is you time with Collins as your starting C and sign some depth behind him like a Mason Plumlee type.

[EricB]

Naz Reid and Cam Johnson would be a nice summer, tbh :hat

[DAF86]

In what league does Wemby get to dictate who the defense checks him with?

He can't, but the Spurs can dictate who the other guys guard depending on who they put alongside Wemby.


And on what planet is a power forward a perimeter player?

In the 2023 NBA.


We are not and should not going to ask Wemby to guard Embiid and Davis.

Never said we should, tbh. In fact, I said exactly the opposite.

[Joseph Kony]

I pray not. He provides zero resistance on defense. Would prefer Mo Bamba, even though he’s a bit of a dumb dumb.
But Mo Bamba provides the same amount of defense as Vuc. His defensive potential is all theoretical because of his size. he's a complete turnstile on D

[Joseph Kony]

you guys wanting to load the SL with non-shooters is weird. no thanks to Poeltl. I think Collins is actually a good pairing if you want to start another big with Wemby

[DAF86]

I like the idea of Jakob though. The thought of him and Wemby protecting the rim with Sochan roaming all over the court gives me 2003 Spurs vibes with Duncan-Robinson-Bowen.

Spacing on offense becomes somewhat of an issue with Jak-Sochan-Tre.

Brook Lopez might be a decent option. Similar defense to Jakob with a different profile on offense. Floor spacer but not as effective as Jakob as a roller to the basket.

Third option is you time with Collins as your starting C and sign some depth behind him like a Mason Plumlee type.

I don't think Jakob is a good fit with Wemby. Not only would there be spacing problems. Jakob would also take away Wemby's place as the screen setter on pick and roll plays. I don't know if the rumours of PATFO thinking Jakob would be a great partner for Wemby are true, but I sure hope they aren't because it would mean they don't have the best idea of how to build around Wemby.

[spurraider21]

I don't think Jakob is a good fit with Wemby. Not only would there be spacing problems. Jakob would also take away Wemby's place as the screen setter on pick and roll plays. I don't know if the rumours of PATFO thinking Jakob would be a great partner for Wemby are true, but I sure hope they aren't because it would mean they don't have the best idea of how to build around Wemby.
maybe they should pair him with a future all star like bertans

[DAF86]

maybe they should pair him with a future all star like bertans

I'm still fully on board the Bertans' train, tbh. Isn't he a free agent or something? Get him back.

[spurraider21]

I'm still fully on board the Bertans' train, tbh. Isn't he a free agent or something? Get him back.
:lol i respect the commitment

under contract for 17 mil this year

has an ETO/player option before the 24-25 season where he's due to make 16. at this point given his projected market he'd probably opt in for that

[Chinook]

A lot of people who downplay Wemby's slight frame seem to overlook how many ways playing center exposes him to contact. It's not just defending in the post. Boxing out, setting screens, sealing off and being sealed off, contesting shots as the direct rim-protector rather than as a help defender. Just look at the beating Collins takes. Wemby doesn't have to put himself in a position to absorb as much contact as a shorter player would, but he's going to have to learn that. Him developing that understanding of technique and proprioception is part of why it's absurd to pretend Tim wouldn't be a fantastic mentor. That understanding will help him make up for what will likely always be a slight frame. However, until he learns that, players are going beat him up, and we don't know if he's going to be able to handle that. So no, you definitely start off protecting him as you let him develop his body and game. If that means the team loses some games due to sub-optimal spacing, so be it.

I'm not a fan of load-managing Wemby without seeing if he even needs it. I think the team should plan on him playing all 82 games. But in order to do that, they need to limit his minutes in general and his hard minutes in particular. I'd aim for 30 MPG with 6-12 coming at center depending on the situation. Then go from there. That leaves 36 center minutes and 30 PF minutes for Collins, Sochan and whomever else.

[Ice009]

Naz Reid and Cam Johnson would be a nice summer, tbh :hat

This sounds good to me. What do you think each of them would cost?

How are they defensively, especially Naz Reid? Is he at least an above average defender?

[FuzzyLumpkins]

He can't, but the Spurs can dictate who the other guys guard depending on who they put alongside Wemby.

They can try but at the end of the day teams can put whoever they want on him.


In the 2023 NBA.

Some 4s run point on pnr -very few- but the notion that modern 4s don't use the traditional high and low post on offense is ignorant.


Never said we should, tbh. In fact, I said exactly the opposite.

So then you don't want him to play the 5.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

you guys wanting to load the SL with non-shooters is weird. no thanks to Poeltl. I think Collins is actually a good pairing if you want to start another big with Wemby

We need 5s. I take what we can get as opposed to wishcasting a long range defending 5 to become available.

[DAF86]

They can try but at the end of the day teams can put whoever they want on him.



Some 4s run point on pnr -very few- but the notion that modern 4s don't use the traditional high and low post on offense is ignorant.



So then you don't want him to play the 5.

I want him to play the 5. Just don't guard those guys, which aren't many on the league, tbh. Just 3 or 4.

You watched the recent Lakers/Nuggets series. Davis is clearly the Lakers center yet he barely guarded Jokic. The same thing could be done with Wemby.

[DAF86]

We need 5s. I take what we can get as opposed to wishcasting a long range defending 5 to become available.

No, we don't. We just got a ticket for the best 5 of the next 20 years.

[Mr. Body]

No, we don't. We just got a ticket for the best 5 of the next 20 years.

When are people going to realize Wembanyama is not a center?

[mudyez]

Would have loved to get Horford and or Lowry for 2 or 3 years, but with the current FAs only Lopez somewhat fits (characterwise). Not a fan of Vanvleet or CP3.

[mo7888]

When are people going to realize Wembanyama is not a center?

Apparently, it's gonna take a while..

[FuzzyLumpkins]

I want him to play the 5. Just don't guard those guys, which aren't many on the league, tbh. Just 3 or 4.

You watched the recent Lakers/Nuggets series. Davis is clearly the Lakers center yet he barely guarded Jokic. The same thing could be done with Wemby.

They started off with Davis on Jokic. Then they made a 4th quarter adjustment in game 1. You also saw how that worked out when they put someone without size onto Jokic.

I am seeing you only have the most facile takes.

[TD 21]

Wembanyama is a C, just not a traditional one like Poeltl, so he'll need a specific type of C (like Collins) primarily starting next to him for probably a few seasons.

Then throughout the game, gauge what he needs next to him based on matchup (and availability).

Too many extreme views between those who think he should be the solo true big at virtually all times and those who not only think vice versa, but that a team already teeming with limited - non shooters needs to somewhat splurge on an aging one at C.

[Chinook]

Lopez is not a middling shooter for his position. He's arguably the second-best behind Horford. Turner is up there in terms of percentage, but he doesn't attempt them enough. Lopez being old doesn't really matter because the point is to sign him to a short deal and phase him out and he wouldn't have to play full starters minutes with another starting candidate in Collins on board.

I've mentioned Meyers Leonard before and still think he's a good fit on the court. He's been a very efficient player and a very good shooter. The issue with him (besides the really obvious one) is that he's not the defender Lopez or Horford are. He's been okay some years and awful others. While I don't think him not being a great rim-protector would matter all that much playing next to Wemby, he needs to be able to hold up at the point of attack, or else he's not solving any problem. Is the juice worth the squeeze? Maybe. He really was pretty decent last year all things considering. But the Spurs don't exactly need to hunt for the bargain bin right now.

[SpurPadre]

Would you guys take a chance on Lonnie Walker again as a 6th man?

[spurraider21]

When are people going to realize Wembanyama is not a center?
When they watch him play

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Wembanyama is a C, just not a traditional one like Poeltl, so he'll need a specific type of C (like Collins) primarily starting next to him for probably a few seasons.

Then throughout the game, gauge what he needs next to him based on matchup (and availability).

Too many extreme views between those who think he should be the solo true big at virtually all times and those who not only think vice versa, but that a team already teeming with limited - non shooters needs to somewhat splurge on an aging one at C.

I am looking for someone to guard the elite 5s out there. Of course you take every matchup as it comes. I just don't want Wemby banging with guys who outweigh him by 40+ lbs every night.

I like Poeltl because he gives you 17/9, he knows the system, and in 2 or 3 years when Wemby starts to mature he will still be worth a shit. Lopez can shoot but he will be 40 in 2 years.

[spurraider21]

Forget “elite” 5s, i don’t want wemby out there wrestling bears like nurkic, Adams, valunciunas, etc

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Forget “elite” 5s, i don’t want wemby out there wrestling bears like nurkic, Adams, valunciunas, etc

Agreed. This conversation is making wonder how running Wemby at point on the pnr is going to look with Collins or a Poeltl type. I heard people say he did it in France but i have only seen him as the roll man and on isolations.

[objective]

I am looking for someone to guard the elite 5s out there. Of course you take every matchup as it comes. I just don't want Wemby banging with guys who outweigh him by 40+ lbs every night.

I like Poeltl because he gives you 17/9, he knows the system, and in 2 or 3 years when Wemby starts to mature he will still be worth a shit. Lopez can shoot but he will be 40 in 2 years.

Poeltl has never averaged more than 13 points a game, and Brook Lopez turns 36 next April 1st

[spurraider21]

Agreed. This conversation is making wonder how running Wemby at point on the pnr is going to look with Collins or a Poeltl type. I heard people say he did it in France but i have only seen him as the roll man and on isolations.
To be frank, today is the first time I’ve watched a full game of his and not just cut ups. So sample size is n=1. But he didnt remotely resemble a point guard

[rankingtear]

He would be a 4/5 until age 30. Like Duncan and AD and likely Mobley and JJJ.

[onechance87]

Would you guys take a chance on Lonnie Walker again as a 6th man?

Nah he will always be the same player...Has good games some days and has terrible games some days...Just inconsistent

[RC_Drunkford]

I like the Naz Reid idea tbh and he's only 23

[BacktoBasics]

To be frank, today is the first time I’ve watched a full game of his and not just cut ups. So sample size is n=1. But he didnt remotely resemble a point guard

He’s got good handles. For a big. But the idea that he’s a pg is laughable. I agree he’s a good creator but most stars become that by default. Most stars draw a defense.

The problem with Wemby at the next level is how far the ball travels from hand to floor at his height. It’s a long dribble. That becomes a bit prohibitive for a breakdown pg.

[MultiTroll]

Just a thought, certainly not the answer but

Drew Timme Gonzaga.
Late 2nd Round or possibly undrafted.

For his downsides (White boy jumping ability, speed, no consistent trey)
The guy is 100 on positioning, team ball. Could help keep some of the dogs off Wemby while being a super low salary hit.

[RC_Drunkford]

Just a thought, certainly not the answer but

Drew Timme Gonzaga.
Late 2nd Round or possibly undrafted.

For his downsides (White boy jumping ability, speed, no consistent trey)
The guy is 100 on positioning, team ball. Could help keep some of the dogs off Wemby while being a super low salary hit.

sounds like Kyle Anderson

[DAF86]

When are people going to realize Wembanyama is not a center?

Bro, are you even watching the NBA? Kody Zeller is playing as a center in the fucking conference finals. Rui Hachimura was guarding Jokic and doing a better job than most traditional centers.

Bam Adebayo, Al Horford. Those are the guys playing currently as centers. Of course Wembanyama will be a center. I don't know what you guys are smoking.

[R. DeMurre]

Wembanyama is on record saying he'd prefer to be a forward in the NBA, and not a center. The real question might be whether he's a PF or a SF. I really think the experiment with him as SF is a worthwhile one. Defensively it puts him in the middle of the action between the paint & the 3 pt line, and lets him be the ultimate help defender-- something that 8' wingspan is perfectly suited for. Let other bodies bang in the paint and have VW come help-- this saves his body and keeps him out of unnecessary foul trouble.

[Extra Stout]

Bro, are you even watching the NBA? Kody Zeller is playing as a center in the fucking conference finals. Rui Hachimura was guarding Jokic and doing a better job than most traditional centers.

Bad Adebayo, Al Horford. Those are the guys playing currently as centers. Of course Wembanyama will be a center. I don't know what you guys are smoking.
Dirk Nowitzki didn’t play center.

[DAF86]

When they watch him play

Since we got the number one pick I've watched like 4 or 5 full Wembanyama games. In all of them he played as the center. How can something so clear be so difficult to see to the folks in this forum? :lol

I blame the Duncan GPFOT narrative, tbh.

[DAF86]

Dirk Nowitzki didn’t play center.

In today's NBA, he might. Also, Wemby and Nowitzki have nothing in common, specially on defense.

[Extra Stout]

We can beat this drum all year, but at the end of the day the Spurs already have said that Zach Collins will start at center, and sources say they’re looking to acquire another center. That doesn’t leave a lot of room for Wembanyama to play minutes at center. It really appears that the Spurs’ plan as he develops is to protect him from getting beat up by opposing big men.

When Wemby is 25 years old and stronger, the situation may be different. But for 2023-24, all signs point to Wemby playing forward.

Plus — and Spurs fans should know this — PF/C is a thing. You can interpret basketball positions as 1 point/2 wing/2 post just as easily as you can 2 guard/2 forward/1 center. “The greatest power forward of all time” logged plenty of minutes at center.

[DAF86]

They started off with Davis on Jokic. Then they made a 4th quarter adjustment in game 1. You also saw how that worked out when they put someone without size onto Jokic.

I am seeing you only have the most facile takes.

Yeah, I saw Jokic torch the Lakers at a historical rate for 3 quarters untill Hachimura got on him and slowed him down and did a better job than most traditional centers. You are never going to completely stop a player like Jokic. Not even with prime Russell.

And I don't have "facile" takes, I have common sense takes. Which it seems like something difficult to find on this forum. I would love to have the memory to bump these threads in about 20 years when Wemby retires as one of the best centers of all time and laugh at all the retarded takes currently going on. Folks are talking of Wemby as a SF or even PG. :lol

[K...]

Yeah wemby is a SF because he wants to be and it will force mismatches

Hes playing C in France because that team sucks.

Ideally youd call a timeout every possession,.sub in your shooter so its wemby with 4 shooters, then sub in your defensive C to help wemby. Thats not a possible srtat. So what is better.. playing wemby with multiple guards or avoiding him wearing out banging down low?

[Rocalcio]

This sounds good to me. What do you think each of them would cost?

How are they defensively, especially Naz Reid? Is he at least an above average defender?

Cam Johnson would be tought to get, BK made his resigning a top priority.

[Joseph Kony]

We need 5s. I take what we can get as opposed to wishcasting a long range defending 5 to become available.
we have three of them on the roster already. it's 2023, what teams have 3 Cs on the roster nowadays?

Like I said before idk why everyone is so hung up on this idea of saving Wemby from "banging" down low. what Cs now even bang in the post? Nurkic, Valancunias? that's about it

[DAF86]

Yeah wemby is a SF because he wants to be and it will force mismatches

Hes playing C in France because that team sucks.

Ideally youd call a timeout every possession,.sub in your shooter so its wemby with 4 shooters, then sub in your defensive C to help wemby. Thats not a possible srtat. So what is better.. playing wemby with multiple guards or avoiding him wearing out banging down low?

Never in his life he played SF. Never in his life he will, tbh.

[Extra Stout]

Yeah wemby is a SF because he wants to be and it will force mismatches

Hes playing C in France because that team sucks.

Ideally youd call a timeout every possession,.sub in your shooter so its wemby with 4 shooters, then sub in your defensive C to help wemby. Thats not a possible srtat. So what is better.. playing wemby with multiple guards or avoiding him wearing out banging down low?
Maybe on offense he could do his thing slashing and driving sometimes like a SF, but on defense I think of a SF as more of a wing defender, which wouldn’t make a lot of sense for a guy with an 8’ wingspan.

[K...]

Never in his life he played SF. Never in his life he will, tbh.

Telling your star player “you must play Center“ is the surest way to piss him off. It was funny when LMA said he wouldn't play C but he did. Wemby isnt dumb. He knows he can play C, he will play C in stretches. But he images himself as a PF. Except Sochan is a PF. So presto SF

[jjspur]

Just a thought, certainly not the answer but

Drew Timme Gonzaga.
Late 2nd Round or possibly undrafted.

For his downsides (White boy jumping ability, speed, no consistent trey)
The guy is 100 on positioning, team ball. Could help keep some of the dogs off Wemby while being a super low salary hit.

I think he would be a nice 2nd round pick, but probably later than where we pick. He's more of an old school player that would have been great a decade ago. I'm all for getting him as an undrafted player and signing him to the third 2 way contract.

[Dejounte]

Just because Sochan is a PF (he played SF plenty by the way) doesnt mean it forces Wemby to be a SF. That’s backwards. Wemby should force others to play around him, not the other way around. And Wemby in no way is a SF, both offensivey or defensively

[scott]

Honestly who cares about these traditional positions? Need to be thinking in terms of roles, not positions.

[DAF86]

Honestly who cares about these traditional positions? Need to be thinking in terms of roles, not positions.

Well, that's exactly my point. The role that best suits Wemby is being right at the middle of things. Have 4 guys spreading the floor for him while he post ups, isolates, plays on the high post, is the main set screener on pick and rolls. That's a center, tbh. That doesn't mean putting him on a box and only making him do traditional center stuff. Jokic brings the ball up, playmakes and shoots threes, but nobody would say he's anything but a center.

[TD 21]

- Again, according to Givony, Wembanyama supposedly has no problem primarily playing C, just the notion of being put in the traditional box of one.

- No credible source has said the Spurs are focused on adding bigs and the reporting leaves out the important detail of what caliber (starter/rotation/deep bench)?

- Signing some random rim running C would reduce Wembanyama to either mostly a floor spacing role or an on ball one with even less spacing than they already have. This is a lot of what has held back Mobley offensively, only the Cavaliers had Allen first.

- That said, there is more physical demands to playing the position than just "defending Jokic and Embiid in the post". This is why the front court flexibility that they already possess is important to maintain.



Yeah, I saw Jokic torch the Lakers at a historical rate for 3 quarters untill Hachimura got on him and slowed him down and did a better job than most traditional centers. You are never going to completely stop a player like Jokic. Not even with prime Russell.

You're reading too much into that predictable curveball, which momentarily halted momentum and "worked" in part because they had an elite help defender in Davis lurking.

Hachimura is also much stronger than Sochan.



I am looking for someone to guard the elite 5s out there. Of course you take every matchup as it comes. I just don't want Wemby banging with guys who outweigh him by 40+ lbs every night.

I like Poeltl because he gives you 17/9, he knows the system, and in 2 or 3 years when Wemby starts to mature he will still be worth a shit. Lopez can shoot but he will be 40 in 2 years.

No such thing. He doesn't have to, Collins, Bassey and Mamukelashvili exist and they can always sign a veteran, fringe rotation big to compete for minutes with the latter two.

Counting stats without context are irrelevant, the Raptors didn't just give up what they did to lose Poeltl, Lopez will almost certainly re-sign with the Bucks and it'd require an extreme overpay to so much as possibly pique his interest in a re-build.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Poeltl has never averaged more than 13 points a game, and Brook Lopez turns 36 next April 1st

Okay point still stands. Lopez is about to turn into a corpse at any moment and 14/9 is very difficult to find out of the 5 position.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

- Again, according to Givony, Wembanyama supposedly has no problem primarily playing C, just the notion of being put in the traditional box of one.

- No credible source has said the Spurs are focused on adding bigs and the reporting leaves out the important detail of what caliber (starter/rotation/deep bench)?

- Signing some random rim running C would reduce Wembanyama to either mostly a floor spacing role or an on ball one with even less spacing than they already have. This is a lot of what has held back Mobley offensively, only the Cavaliers had Allen first.

- That said, there is more physical demands to playing the position than just "defending Jokic and Embiid in the post". This is why the front court flexibility that they already possess is important to maintain.




You're reading too much into that predictable curveball, which momentarily halted momentum and "worked" in part because they had an elite help defender in Davis lurking.

Hachimura is also much stronger than Sochan.




No such thing. He doesn't have to, Collins, Bassey and Mamukelashvili exist and they can always sign a veteran, fringe rotation big to compete for minutes with the latter two.

Counting stats without context are irrelevant, the Raptors didn't just give up what they did to lose Poeltl, Lopez will almost certainly re-sign with the Bucks and it'd require an extreme overpay to so much as possibly pique his interest in a re-build.

Poeltl is a free agent nd I doubt they are going to offer him the max so I am not sure what your point is.

And sure you can find some spare big to throw at opposing centers or you could get someone better than average at it in Poeltl.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

He’s got good handles. For a big. But the idea that he’s a pg is laughable. I agree he’s a good creator but most stars become that by default. Most stars draw a defense.

The problem with Wemby at the next level is how far the ball travels from hand to floor at his height. It’s a long dribble. That becomes a bit prohibitive for a breakdown pg.

The conversation is about running point on pnr not the 1 position.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

we have three of them on the roster already. it's 2023, what teams have 3 Cs on the roster nowadays?

Like I said before idk why everyone is so hung up on this idea of saving Wemby from "banging" down low. what Cs now even bang in the post? Nurkic, Valancunias? that's about it

ANd which ones of those do you think are starting quality? We are counting bodies or talent?

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Well, that's exactly my point. The role that best suits Wemby is being right at the middle of things. Have 4 guys spreading the floor for him while he post ups, isolates, plays on the high post, is the main set screener on pick and rolls. That's a center, tbh. That doesn't mean putting him on a box and only making him do traditional center stuff. Jokic brings the ball up, playmakes and shoots threes, but nobody would say he's anything but a center.

That is precisely the center box: high/low post and roll man.

[objective]

Okay point still stands. Lopez is about to turn into a corpse at any moment and 14/9 is very difficult to find out of the 5 position.

I don't disagree that much on Lopez, I think any contract with him should be viewed like the Pau contract. Maybe dependable for 1.5 good years, maybe 2 seasons with luck, but that third year will be a dead salary . Poeltl moves better on defense also.

I do like Lopez better fit wise on offense. Because he can either post or shoot threes, he's more versatile for however Wemby or even other guys like Sochan or Collins or Keldon want to play. Poeltl is mostly a roll guy, he's not spreading the court or getting too many 5-down calls.

[Chinook]

I'd flip if the Spurs gave Lopez a three-year deal with a partial guarantee. Just give him all of the guaranteed money in two years. The knock-on effects from that Pau deal caused the Spurs to miss out on a number of opportunities, such as them having to trade Green in 2010 due to Gasol's expiring status and really perpetuating the cycle of dead money hanging on the books that continued to build with guys like Carroll. Give him $30-36M/2 and be done with it. Or give Leonard a $10M/2 with a non-guaranteed second year if there's a plan to use the cap space elsewhere.

[DAF86]

That is precisely the center box: high/low post and roll man.

Doing only that would be the "center box". Nobody is advocating for Wemby to do only that.

[jesterbobman]

I'd flip if the Spurs gave Lopez a three-year deal with a partial guarantee. Just give him all of the guaranteed money in two years. The knock-on effects from that Pau deal caused the Spurs to miss out on a number of opportunities, such as them having to trade Green in 2010 due to Gasol's expiring status and really perpetuating the cycle of dead money hanging on the books that continued to build with guys like Carroll. Give him $30-36M/2 and be done with it. Or give Leonard a $10M/2 with a non-guaranteed second year if there's a plan to use the cap space elsewhere.

Agree. I'd rather give Lopez 40 over 2 years than 35 in a 15, 15, 5 (partial guarantee) in 3.

I think we should be using the next couple of years to fully work out what is the structure that'll work next to / around Wemby so there's a plan for the 2025 free agency period. Wemby is likely to be entering his early prime and be settled in then. I don't want dead $ on the cap in the contending period that the FO should be aiming towards.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Doing only that would be the "center box". Nobody is advocating for Wemby to do only that.

That is the 5 that you are asking for.

[Mr. Body]

How is the Brook Lopez thing supposed to work? He signs with the Spurs to come off the bench? You stick Zach Collins on the bench? You want Brook Lopez to not play for a contender, one of the most valuable role-players in the league?

[scott]

Would love to see Jak back, but I fear no one would ever trade with us again if we did that

[onechance87]

Would love to see Jak back, but I fear no one would ever trade with us again if we did that

meh...they will get over it...Our first priority should doing whats best for us

[jesterbobman]

How is the Brook Lopez thing supposed to work? He signs with the Spurs to come off the bench? You stick Zach Collins on the bench? You want Brook Lopez to not play for a contender, one of the most valuable role-players in the league?

I don't think he'd come, I think the Bucks pay to keep him for the contention window. I think it's worth considering as an option.

In terms of fit, start him to patrol the paint a bunch, and Bench Collins. Collins had a great run to finish the year, and has a useful skillset, but Brook is a lot better.

[FuzzyLumpkins]

Brook Lopez is an excellent win now piece. He can shoot the 3 and play in the post both ends.

I don't see the Spurs spending more than $15m on a veteran free agent unless he is under 30 nonetheless.

[DAF86]

That is the 5 that you are asking for.

I'm literally telling you the opposite, what's your problem? :lol

[FuzzyLumpkins]

I'm literally telling you the opposite, what's your problem? :lol

You said you wanted him to play C. If you agree that he shouldn't defend C and should get a chance to be a primary ball handler and work the perimeter as well as the post then great.

[TD 21]

Poeltl is a free agent nd I doubt they are going to offer him the max so I am not sure what your point is.

And sure you can find some spare big to throw at opposing centers or you could get someone better than average at it in Poeltl.

Teams don't give up relatively significant value for upcoming UFA's without knowing beforehand approximately what it's going to take to re-sign them and the likelihood of them wanting to do so.

Collins is going to start at C and Wembanyama is going to play some C too, so if they sign the caliber of C being thrown around ad nauseam on this board, the only way to get Sochan the minutes those same people want him to have, is to shoehorn him into SF or PG, either of which would make the offense untenable and limit Wembanyama to more of an off ball role.

[BackHome]

Yeah I don't see us signing anyone and as far as Wemby position I don't care he can play what ever he wants on offense but he ain't playing Center on Defense at least not until he gains 20-30pds which is probably 3 to 4 years away from that happening

[Dverde]

Brook Lopez is an excellent win now piece. He can shoot the 3 and play in the post both ends.

I don't see the Spurs spending more than $15m on a veteran free agent unless he is under 30 nonetheless.

I could see The Spurs adding Lopez as a vet to help mentor Wemby. He already has a ring and may want to play for Pop before he hangs them up. I don’t really like the move, but I could see it happening.

[td4mvp2k]

How is the Brook Lopez thing supposed to work? He signs with the Spurs to come off the bench? You stick Zach Collins on the bench? You want Brook Lopez to not play for a contender, one of the most valuable role-players in the league?
no way spurs add another center especially since he's no better and older than collins. they need to focus more on spending on the guard or wing who can run an offense at a high level.

[spurraider21]

i've been a proponent of adding a big center who can anchor like poeltl or lopez. also figured it was somewhat likely given that timvp previously reported that the spurs, when planning for the possibility of wemby, didnt want to move poeltl because they loved his fit.

but that was also at a time when collins wasnt proven, and he did finish the season pretty damn well. pop spoke highly of collins and already said that he's earned the starting role... "he's made it. he's going to be the guy at 5 for us"

would be pretty weird to make a statement like that and then go sign a veteran to start in place of collins. starting to think its less likely than i initially thought. naz reid is an option who can come in and be the backup (i dont hate bassey, but frankly cant rely on him yet), but he's also not that burly type on defense that we would want to throw at opposing centers. plumlee came off the bench for the clippers behind zubac, so he's another vet option who should be willing to back collins up

[Chinook]

no way spurs add another center especially since he's no better and older than collins. they need to focus more on spending on the guard or wing who can run an offense at a high level.

Lopez was much better than Collins last year. It's one thing to not want him or want to lose, but people don't seem to appropriately judge the Spurs players in the context of the rest of the league. They have a lot of bad players, and most of the non-bad ones are mediocre

[jesterbobman]

Lopez was much better than Collins last year. It's one thing to not want him or want to lose, but people don't seem to appropriately judge the Spurs players in the context of the rest of the league. They have a lot of bad players, and most of the non-bad ones are mediocre

I mean, we were bad. Lopez could have won DPOY, Collins was a back up centre / then starter for the worst defence in the history of the league. Decent season, developed offensively and the skillset is useful...but Lopez is way better.

Some people seem to have Raptors fan disease where they were a lottery team with 5 all star level players who are all worth 18 unprotected picks in a trade.
I think we have some promising young players, but promising is not the same as good.

[JuneJive]

Like Lopez would ever sign here. Jesus.

How about we entertain some realistic proposals. Not that there are many. Mainly because I think the Spurs won't shake things up. They just got their centerpiece and it's all about figuring out what and who works best with him within the current roster.

[spurraider21]

Lopez shot the same 3pt% as Collins but with more volume, though its also fair to recognize that it was Brook's career high in 3pt% at age 34

[Dejounte]

Tbh I think we are going to sign like three point guards this offseason and see what sticks. Starting to believe the depth at C is fine: Collins, Mamu, Bassey, Barlow, Sochan in a pinch.

[td4mvp2k]

Lopez was much better than Collins last year. It's one thing to not want him or want to lose, but people don't seem to appropriately judge the Spurs players in the context of the rest of the league. They have a lot of bad players, and most of the non-bad ones are mediocre
you add collins to that bucks starting lineup and he's adding equal to if not better numbers compared to the spurs lineup.

[Mr. Body]

Tbh I think we are going to sign like three point guards this offseason and see what sticks. Starting to believe the depth at C is fine: Collins, Mamu, Bassey, Barlow, Sochan in a pinch.

If there's the right PF type in the second round I think they'll grab him. But agree they're going to see what they already have.

[Ariel]

Like Lopez would ever sign here. Jesus.

How about we entertain some realistic proposals. Not that there are many. Mainly because I think the Spurs won't shake things up. They just got their centerpiece and it's all about figuring out what and who works best with him within the current roster.
The Spurs have more than enough money to throw at Lopez if they so choose, enough to make him "an offer he can't refuse". The problem is, why should the Spurs make him such an offer (lets say, north of 20M annually) when he's not going to be around by the time the team actually contends. I'd look elsewhere, either for younger players with potential, or cheaper veterans to fill gaps in between. Besides Pop already said Zach Collins is the starting five, so I'd be surprised if they targeted a high profile C.

[Chinook]

you add collins to that bucks starting lineup and he's adding equal to if not better numbers compared to the spurs lineup.

No. Lopez is one of the people who contributed to Milwaukee's success, not just benefitted from it. Guys like Middleton were hurt. No idea why it's hard to accept other teams have good players.

[mookie2001]

Lol man ST only wants the oldest, most past their prime veterans available.

patty mills
















Chris Paul



Brook Lopez stop it

[td4mvp2k]

No. Lopez is one of the people who contributed to Milwaukee's success, not just benefitted from it. Guys like Middleton were hurt. No idea why it's hard to accept other teams have good players.the bucks are one of the deepest teams in the league and you could argue lopez is no more valuable than portis is to that team but dont mistake that lopez is the reason why they finished first.

[Vince Carter's ankle]

How many tears, snot and accusations against management were on this forum last summer when Darius Days signed with Miami?
What will happen this time?

[CGD]

I mean, we were bad. Lopez could have won DPOY, Collins was a back up centre / then starter for the worst defence in the history of the league. Decent season, developed offensively and the skillset is useful...but Lopez is way better.

Some people seem to have Raptors fan disease where they were a lottery team with 5 all star level players who are all worth 18 unprotected picks in a trade.
I think we have some promising young players, but promising is not the same as good.

Sure, but in the same breath there are folks who want to bring back Jakob who started at C for most of that “historically bad” defense. In my view it’s unfair to put that on a particular player: bad D had more to do with the irregular lineups, injuries, rookies being rookies, and low key tanking.

I say give Collins the starting nod. He’s a fighter and spreads the floor. And then bring in a vet or a reclamation project like Mo Bamba to compete for the backup slot. So additional size would also help (PJ Washington?).

[cd98]

Not a good free agency market. Past their prime players don’t tie up long term salary and provide leadership and professionalism to young players. They are also still good enough to teach execution of offense in last couple of minutes of a close game. So I’m ok with Chris Paul or Lopez. They help for a year and heck I’d take Paul for a year and then release him to join a contender at the end of the season.

[Chinook]

the bucks are one of the deepest teams in the league and you could argue lopez is no more valuable than portis is to that team but dont mistake that lopez is the reason why they finished first.

Dude was second on the team in on-off. He was literally the best defensive center in the league according to RAPTOR. Dude was really good. To put it into perspective, he's a less offensively versatile but more mobile version of Pau during his first couple of years in SA. For all the people who seem worried that Wemby won't be able to get anything from Tim, having a guy next to him like Lopez who can show him not only defensive concepts but also how to move around the perimeter as an NBA center could really help his development.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VurnJyGk-w&ab_channel=ZHHighlights

No, Zach Collins isn't doing this. Very few centers in the NBA are. Dude's a true three-and-D role-player at his position, maybe the only one in the league besides Horford. Just incredibly valuable. Hell, even if you want to buy futures in Collins, Lopez would be a great big for him to learn from as well. Zach has a lot of work to do, but if he can get to this level, he's going to have lucrative back-half of his career.

[intlspurshk]

Why would a player like Lopez play for a rebuilding team? There are contending teams with cap room

[Chinook]

Why would a player like Lopez play for a rebuilding team? There are contending teams with cap room

There aren't really contending teams with cap space. There are some hopeful clubs that could let their bigger free agents walk to make a chunk, but it's arguable if they'd still even hopeful contenders if they did that. He could take less to sign with those teams. But it's not clear if winning a title is his primary goal at this point. Money might be the goal, or playing for Pop, or getting to see Wemby up close or extending his career. We don't know if other teams would see the same benefit from signing him. Like LAL has Davis who's at the point in his career where he really should be playing the bulk of center minutes. Cleveland needs to clear up center minutes more than add to that log jam. Dallas could really use him and may sign him, but only if Kyrie walks, in which case I don't know that they're more compelling. They're also limited in how much they can offer, seeing as they would need to find a new starting guard.

If Lopez doesn't reup with MKE (which is probably the likeliest outcome by a fair margin) I think it'll come down to issues the Spurs can definitely compete on. I know I might be coming off as a big Lopez stan, but in reality I am standing on the table this much because I want STers to open their minds beyond fantasizing that this specific collection of players is going to be the new Big Three that drives the team to success for the next two decades. It's mythologizing that era of the team by looking at their legacy as an inevitable result of the starting pieces rather than the dynamic and honestly sometimes slap-dash series of transactions or improvements the team made and failed to make over the course of more than a decade. In an extremely short span of time (from 2000-2004), the Spurs ran legit risks of losing each of the three at least once, and as second and third contracts came up for negotiation, it wasn't always clear the core was going to stay together. It's only after everyone got old and won multiple titles did the inertia really kick in and it became more likely than not that the players would take whatever discounts to make it work as a trio. Even then you had Tony's trade speculation in 2011 and Manu's flirting with Philly in 2016.

That's a long-winded way of saying the Spurs need to make moves to help accomplish their goals in 2023, with only a vague sense of what they mean for 2027. Those future moves will be made then, not now.

[Davidicus]

Lopez would be the best signing of the offseason for us, in my mind. Throw money at him while we have the cap space over next couple of years. No point in bringing in a superstar now, our window starts in 2 years probably. Lopez would do all the dirty work while Wemby learns and grows. Collins is good yes but WHEN he gets injured we can’t have Wemby out there fending for himself (and Bassey, cmon).

[spurraider21]

Dude was second on the team in on-off. He was literally the best defensive center in the league according to RAPTOR. Dude was really good. To put it into perspective, he's a less offensively versatile but more mobile version of Pau during his first couple of years in SA. For all the people who seem worried that Wemby won't be able to get anything from Tim, having a guy next to him like Lopez who can show him not only defensive concepts but also how to move around the perimeter as an NBA center could really help his development.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VurnJyGk-w&ab_channel=ZHHighlights

No, Zach Collins isn't doing this. Very few centers in the NBA are. Dude's a true three-and-D role-player at his position, maybe the only one in the league besides Horford. Just incredibly valuable. Hell, even if you want to buy futures in Collins, Lopez would be a great big for him to learn from as well. Zach has a lot of work to do, but if he can get to this level, he's going to have lucrative back-half of his career.
myles turner is another, though not as sound defensively

[td4mvp2k]

Dude was second on the team in on-off. He was literally the best defensive center in the league according to RAPTOR. Dude was really good. To put it into perspective, he's a less offensively versatile but more mobile version of Pau during his first couple of years in SA. For all the people who seem worried that Wemby won't be able to get anything from Tim, having a guy next to him like Lopez who can show him not only defensive concepts but also how to move around the perimeter as an NBA center could really help his development.

No, Zach Collins isn't doing this. Very few centers in the NBA are. Dude's a true three-and-D role-player at his position, maybe the only one in the league besides Horford. Just incredibly valuable. Hell, even if you want to buy futures in Collins, Lopez would be a great big for him to learn from as well. Zach has a lot of work to do, but if he can get to this level, he's going to have lucrative back-half of his career.look at who's playing with in the lineup 2 of the best defensive players in the league and not just defensively but all nba level players.. considering who the coach was it's not surprising how lopez was used scheme wise in their offense and defense. I agree that he is like pau but a weak version even at his best and he's 35 likely going on the decline who was exposed in the playoffs who's not mobile enough compared to a collins which imo would be a lateral move when it comes to production. I think the depth at both PF and C is good enough for now on the spurs sure theres no seasoned vet but that can be had at a minimum on the market and i believe they will get that at some point. With Duncan and Pop already in place for wemby's development is a good start and no reason to spend poeltl like $ on an old center who cant play alot of minutes in the PO's not that he even puts the spurs in the PO's. No thanks i'll take a HOF to mentor the franchise guy without using a chunk of the cap.

[Ariel]

There aren't really contending teams with cap space. There are some hopeful clubs that could let their bigger free agents walk to make a chunk, but it's arguable if they'd still even hopeful contenders if they did that. He could take less to sign with those teams. But it's not clear if winning a title is his primary goal at this point. Money might be the goal, or playing for Pop, or getting to see Wemby up close or extending his career. We don't know if other teams would see the same benefit from signing him. Like LAL has Davis who's at the point in his career where he really should be playing the bulk of center minutes. Cleveland needs to clear up center minutes more than add to that log jam. Dallas could really use him and may sign him, but only if Kyrie walks, in which case I don't know that they're more compelling. They're also limited in how much they can offer, seeing as they would need to find a new starting guard.

If Lopez doesn't reup with MKE (which is probably the likeliest outcome by a fair margin) I think it'll come down to issues the Spurs can definitely compete on. I know I might be coming off as a big Lopez stan, but in reality I am standing on the table this much because I want STers to open their minds beyond fantasizing that this specific collection of players is going to be the new Big Three that drives the team to success for the next two decades. It's mythologizing that era of the team by looking at their legacy as an inevitable result of the starting pieces rather than the dynamic and honestly sometimes slap-dash series of transactions or improvements the team made and failed to make over the course of more than a decade. In an extremely short span of time (from 2000-2004), the Spurs ran legit risks of losing each of the three at least once, and as second and third contracts came up for negotiation, it wasn't always clear the core was going to stay together. It's only after everyone got old and won multiple titles did the inertia really kick in and it became more likely than not that the players would take whatever discounts to make it work as a trio. Even then you had Tony's trade speculation in 2011 and Manu's flirting with Philly in 2016.

That's a long-winded way of saying the Spurs need to make moves to help accomplish their goals in 2023, with only a vague sense of what they mean for 2027. Those future moves will be made then, not now.
The discussion is fine, but there's a 2% chance Brook Lopez signs with the Spurs. IMO he's either staying in Milwaukee, or going to Houston. Circumstances are better for him there, with Ime at the helm they're going all in right now, because they owe the next 3 picks to OKC (1 swap), meaning they can't afford to not be competitive. They need a defensive anchor and culture changer, he's a perfect fit and they'll probably throw everything but the kitchen sink at him, they're that desperate. He means more to them than to us.

[Atl Spur]

How many tears, snot and accusations against management were on this forum last summer when Darius Days signed with Miami?
What will happen this time?

Lol……. #facts

[Atl Spur]

Ol’ Patfo have us sitting in the catbird seat right now but you’ll never hear some speak on that but surely will drink the milk!

[EricB]

This sounds good to me. What do you think each of them would cost?

How are they defensively, especially Naz Reid? Is he at least an above average defender?


crom what I know Max is good. Cam Johnson good as well plus his three point game can help out. Johnson can also hits shots in the clutch, Suns missed him badly.

[Mr. Body]

Naz Reid is not a good rebounder or defender.

[wildbill2u]

I like the way Collins occasionally would bring the "nasty" and I suspect that Pop likes it too. He improved over the year and by the end of the season was a good replacement for Poertl although with different skills. I see no reason to replace him with Lopez as Collins has some pretty good upside left in his career if he can avoid injuries. Let's keep him and see what else is out there that could improve the team.

[exstatic]

I like the way Collins occasionally would bring the "nasty" and I suspect that Pop likes it too. He improved over the year and by the end of the season was a good replacement for Poertl although with different skills. I see no reason to replace him with Lopez as Collins has some pretty good upside left in his career if he can avoid injuries. Let's keep him and see what else is out there that could improve the team.

Lopez isn’t a replacement. We need tough stretch 5 play for 48 minutes, not 30.

[K...]

Its so weird that people dont agree the spurs can get better talent and still develop the almost stars we got. Collins has marginal trade value. Behind him are garbage time players. Lopez is a stretch to come here but its worth trying. Collins isnt a proven starter but a good rotation guy

[lefty20]

1662224645272076289

[Mr. Body]

Of all the things that are not going to happen, that's the most.

[spurraider21]

i'll only allow it if he wears a yarmulke to his introductory press conference wherein he goes up on a whiteboard and proves that the earth is spherical

[ChumpDumper]

:lol not enough noise in SA to drown out Kyrie's crazy.

[RC_Drunkford]

I wonder who's stupid enough to bet on Kyrie coming to the Spurs :lol

[TD 21]

While they could target fringe rotation - deep bench options (R. Lopez, Powell, Bryant, J. Green, Kaminsky, Marjanovic, Zeller, Saric, M. Wagner, Biyombo, Len), that won't help them reach the cap floor to receive the luxury tax payment.

I wonder if they'll target Theis (Birch?) in a trade. He's got 2 years and roughly $18.7M remaining, but the second year is a team option.

If he can bounce back from an injury plagued year, he's pretty much the ideal fringe rotation big.

[Chinook]

While they could target fringe rotation - deep bench options (R. Lopez, Powell, Bryant, J. Green, Kaminsky, Marjanovic, Zeller, Saric, M. Wagner, Biyombo, Len), that won't help them reach the cap floor to receive the luxury tax payment.

I wonder if they'll target Theis (Birch?) in a trade. He's got 2 years and roughly $18.7M remaining, but the second year is a team option.

If he can bounce back from an injury plagued year, he's pretty much the ideal fringe rotation big.

I ended up hearing the rule about needing to get to the floor kicks in in 2024-2025, not next year. So the Spurs don't have to worry about the floor this time around.

I still don't think they should waste their cap space, but they don't need to use it just to use it.

[tonight...you]

:lol not enough noise in SA to drown out Kyrie's crazy.
Can you imagine Pop having to deal with Cray-Cray Kyrie for a full season?
Heart Attack City for the septuagenarian.
Kawhi was enough.

[TD 21]

I ended up hearing the rule about needing to get to the floor kicks in in 2024-2025, not next year. So the Spurs don't have to worry about the floor this time around.

I still don't think they should waste their cap space, but they don't need to use it just to use it.

Well, minus that I still could see this making sense all the way around.

Of course, they can explore other options with their cap space first.

[Dejounte]

Tbh they need to prepare for Giannis two years from now. Wemby will be 21 and Giannis will be 30. That’s an extremely potent duo, plus whoever we’ve developed into a third star by that time.

[RC_Drunkford]

Probably just speculation, but the Spurs are supposedly interested in Austin Reaves


Jovan Buha: I think the Lakers are going to retain him. Obviously, their preference would be to sign him to the four-year, $54 million deal. I’ve heard that there are going to be multiple suitors out there in talking with people around the league. You mentioned Orlando and Houston. I’ve heard San Antonio could be a dark horse team that will try to poach Austin from the Lakers (https://hoopshype.com/lists/lakers-rumors-lebron-james-kyrie-irving-austin-reaves-dangelo-russell-free-agency/).
3 hours ago (https://hoopshype.com/rumor/spurs-a-dark-horse-team-for-austin-reaves/) – via Michael Scotto @ HoopsHype (https://hoopshype.com/lists/lakers-rumors-lebron-james-kyrie-irving-austin-reaves-dangelo-russell-free-agency/)

[Mr. Body]

Word is LAL will match him. It's pretty rich for a guy who has only one season of pretty good production, but they got burned letting Caruso go.

[RC_Drunkford]

yes they are saying they will match up to a 100 million. Which is crazy because he can only get around 12 million per year on his first 2 years, so the contract is backloaded heavily. Imagine paying Austin Reaves 38 million per year :lol

[widowmaker]

I wonder who's stupid enough to bet on Kyrie coming to the Spurs :lol


I wonder who on the Spurs staff is stupid enough to consider kyrie on this team.

[Mr. Body]

I wonder who on the Spurs staff is stupid enough to consider kyrie on this team.

Instant firing.

[EricB]

I’d give Reaves a poison pill contract just to fuck the lakers over.


why the fuck not

[kobyz]

What you all think about signing Grant Williams? I think his type of game fit nicely longside Wemby and his leadership could be very helpful for the direction we need to go

[exstatic]

What you all think about signing Grant Williams? I think his type of game fit nicely longside Wemby and his leadership could be very helpful for the direction we need to go

Grant is a homeless Keldon, and any Boston player’s leadership should be considered suspect.

This is something people haven’t wrapped their heads around: we no longer need to pick through other team’s trash for projects. We have a really good young roster, and 32 picks in the next 7 drafts.

[Chinook]

What you all think about signing Grant Williams? I think his type of game fit nicely longside Wemby and his leadership could be very helpful for the direction we need to go

I think he could have a career similar to PJ Tucker. If the Spurs' strength wasn't in their forwards, I would be more interested in seeing what it would cost. While I think you need to do more than just be a defensive specialist to really make it in the league, the team last year makes me really want a couple of defensive guys. They should get one in Wemby. But a guy in the middle positions would be nice considering that guys like Keldon and McDermott are going to eat huge minutes at the forward spot this year.

[Mr. Body]

We keep mentioning players who likely want to contend. Brook Lopez is staying at Milwaukee or go somewhere like the Lakers. Grant Williams is a fringe rotation player who nonetheless has deep playoff experience. He can find money playing for another playoff team.

The baby Spurs do need some good vets. Guys who can model the prep and professionalism between games, how to be prepared. But we already have McDermott and, for now, Graham. They seem like excellent dudes.

We do need to spend money, but none of these other players will want to come, nor should we want them taking time away from Sochan, Mamu, and other bigs. Just send a SRP to Brooklyn to absorb Patty's contract. Hire Giorgiu Dieng to drive the team bus. You're in good shape.

[CGD]

Any RFAs out there worth an offer sheet? Prichard comes to mind, who is said to be ready to move on from Boston.

Here are a few other names (aside from Reeves, Cam) where it’s up clear if a team would match:

- Deni Advija
- PJ Washington
- Matisse Thybulle
- Cobi White
- Pritchard

Pritchard and PJ are interesting.

[Degoat]

Any RFAs out there worth an offer sheet? Prichard comes to mind, who is said to be ready to move on from Boston.

Here are a few other names (aside from Reeves, Cam) where it’s up clear if a team would match:

- Deni Advija
- PJ Washington
- Matisse Thybulle
- Cobi White
- Pritchard

Pritchard and PJ are interesting.

I’d be interested in Deni, Washington sucks at developing talent he could be really useful on another team

[kobyz]

Grant is a homeless Keldon, and any Boston player’s leadership should be considered suspect.

This is something people haven’t wrapped their heads around: we no longer need to pick through other team’s trash for projects. We have a really good young roster, and 32 picks in the next 7 drafts.

You seem a little cocky evaluating other teams players

[kobyz]

I think he could have a career similar to PJ Tucker. If the Spurs' strength wasn't in their forwards, I would be more interested in seeing what it would cost. While I think you need to do more than just be a defensive specialist to really make it in the league, the team last year makes me really want a couple of defensive guys. They should get one in Wemby. But a guy in the middle positions would be nice considering that guys like Keldon and McDermott are going to eat huge minutes at the forward spot this year.

A rich man more well rounded PJ... And PJ started his real nba career at age 30... I think he's closer to Ron Artest than to PJ

[EricB]

We keep mentioning players who likely want to contend. Brook Lopez is staying at Milwaukee or go somewhere like the Lakers. Grant Williams is a fringe rotation player who nonetheless has deep playoff experience. He can find money playing for another playoff team.

The baby Spurs do need some good vets. Guys who can model the prep and professionalism between games, how to be prepared. But we already have McDermott and, for now, Graham. They seem like excellent dudes.

We do need to spend money, but none of these other players will want to come, nor should we want them taking time away from Sochan, Mamu, and other bigs. Just send a SRP to Brooklyn to absorb Patty's contract. Hire Giorgiu Dieng to drive the team bus. You're in good shape.


Milwaukee won’t be able to afford him and I have no idea where the lakers are getting their money from to pay him

[Mr. Body]

Milwaukee won’t be able to afford him and I have no idea where the lakers are getting their money from to pay him

I didn't realize those were the only two playoff teams in the league.

[objective]

I'd like Yuta Watanabe as a fill in player instead of KBD

[spurraider21]

yes they are saying they will match up to a 100 million. Which is crazy because he can only get around 12 million per year on his first 2 years, so the contract is backloaded heavily. Imagine paying Austin Reaves 38 million per year :lol
to be clear, whoever signs him to an offer sheet, on something like a 4/100 deal, would basically be paying him 25/year. it would be the lakers who would get that crazy backlogged version of the deal when they match.

i doubt they match 4/100, but i also doubt he fetches a 4/100 offer sheet anyway

think he's looking at 4/70 or 4/80 though

[spurraider21]

Any RFAs out there worth an offer sheet? Prichard comes to mind, who is said to be ready to move on from Boston.

Here are a few other names (aside from Reeves, Cam) where it’s up clear if a team would match:

- Deni Advija
- PJ Washington
- Matisse Thybulle
- Cobi White
- Pritchard

Pritchard and PJ are interesting.
lakers definitely want to match Reaves, but due to their cap situation, his contract becomes poison pilled to them. no matter what his offer sheet is, for the lakers, his cap hits in the first 2 years are going to be like 12 mil each. meaning his deal on their end becomes massively backloaded

if somebody signed him to a 4/80 offer sheet, for instance, the cap numbers for the lakers would be something like 12/13/27/28

dont know if they want to lock themselves into that kind of cap number

[buttsR4rebounding]

lakers definitely want to match Reaves, but due to their cap situation, his contract becomes poison pilled to them. no matter what his offer sheet is, for the lakers, his cap hits in the first 2 years are going to be like 12 mil each. meaning his deal on their end becomes massively backloaded

if somebody signed him to a 4/80 offer sheet, for instance, the cap numbers for the lakers would be something like 12/13/27/28

dont know if they want to lock themselves into that kind of cap number

Can you even structure a contract that doubles from year 2 to 3?

[widowmaker]

We have the same recipe as the nuggets are cooking right now.

[rascal]

Any RFAs out there worth an offer sheet? Prichard comes to mind, who is said to be ready to move on from Boston.

Here are a few other names (aside from Reeves, Cam) where it’s up clear if a team would match:

- Deni Advija
- PJ Washington
- Matisse Thybulle
- Cobi White
- Pritchard

Pritchard and PJ are interesting.

Why do you want Pritchard? He couldn't get on the floor with Boston. They didn't even play him against Miami.
Spurs need to do better than that.

[Mr. Body]

How much do we actually have to spend to match the CBA requirement?

[EricB]

I didn't realize those were the only two playoff teams in the league.

they’re the ones you presented 🤷🏻#♂️

I mean if there’s another playoff team with significant cap room, I don’t know of one.

there’s a chance they could get him for 18 or so and no one else can match it.

[Mr. Body]

Milwaukee can resign Lopez.

[EricB]

Milwaukee can resign Lopez.


I mean they could if they want to hit that second apron and not have the MLE buy outs etc

[Mr. Body]

I mean they could if they want to hit that second apron and not have the MLE buy outs etc

Let them worry about it. He's not coming here.

[spurraider21]

Can you even structure a contract that doubles from year 2 to 3?
Not outright. It’s the “arenas free agent” provision of the CBA

https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2023/03/hoops-rumors-glossary-gilbert-arenas-provision-4.html#:~:text=Introduced%20to%20help%20avoid%20si milar,for%20one%20or%20two%20years.

[ss1986v2]

How much do we actually have to spend to match the CBA requirement?

New/different penalties for not reaching the salary floor (90% of the salary cap) by the first day of the regular season, from my understanding:

1. Teams now pay the difference between team salary and the floor to the NBA, which is then distributed among all NBA players (previous had been paid to the team's own players).
2. Teams will not receive any luxury tax distribution payment from the tax paying teams (will be 50% of the distribution amount for the 2023/2024 season to ease things into the new rules).
3. Teams will have the difference between their current salary and the salary floor added to their cap as a hold, restricting them to only that 10% to be used during that season.

I believe those are the only things. Anyone else well versed in this please correct me if wrong. Still learning all the new stuff myself.

[Rocalcio]

Pritchard confirmed that he wants out Boston, for not playing enough. He could be a good fit.

[JuneJive]

Avdija could be interesting.

His defense is almost elite.

[CGD]

Why do you want Pritchard? He couldn't get on the floor with Boston. They didn't even play him against Miami.
Spurs need to do better than that.

That was more of the fact that he was behind Smart, White, and Malcom. Not saying he’s the answer, but he at least brings shooting from the position and seems to be available.

[CGD]

Avdija could be interesting.

His defense is almost elite.

Have always like Deni but seems redundant with Sochan and maybe even Mamu.

[Mr. Body]

Washington will keep Avdija.

[Bruno]

How much do we actually have to spend to match the CBA requirement?

The team salary floor is estimated at $120.6M for next season. It can be $122.4M at the highest.

Before free agency, Spurs team salary will be $96.2M (with Wemby and Zollins kept). Spurs will have then 11 players under contract (10 if Khem Birch is kept). With the $120.6M figure, they will need to spend $24.4M on free agent for 4 or 5 players. Tre Jones should take a significant part of it.

Being below the salary floor isn't that much of a big deal. It would cost some money (around $5M/$10M) to the ownership.