Chris Paul signs with the Spurs

[R. DeMurre]

It'll be fun to see the inevitable comments from the general public if the Spurs are in the race for the Play In Tournament but still trade CP at the deadline.

[R. DeMurre]

Honestly, I bet Mamu could start a budget brand and outsell both KJ and Dev in Tajikistan or wherever the fuck he’s from


:lol Ok, gotta admit you make me laugh sometimes with your geographical schtick of mixing up countries, or referencing Bratislava like an American Yakov Smirnoff.

[The Truth #6]

There's still a possibility that no one wants him at the trade deadline and he ends up... retiring a Spur? Though someone from the Banana Boat will likely throw him a lifeline if it got to that.

[KingKev]

It'll be fun to see the inevitable comments from the general public if the Spurs are in the race for the Play In Tournament but still trade CP at the deadline.

or buy him out for 99 cents on the dollar when he is actually contributing. I’d rather tank anyways personally!

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN0PvMJwerY

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nRC4t8Pggo

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IufITJ2l69w

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laCTbHYQ9PU

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8A5eceod94

[scott]

:lol Ok, gotta admit you make me laugh sometimes with your geographical schtick of mixing up countries, or referencing Bratislava like an American Yakov Smirnoff.

I’m glad someone appreciates it! Cheers!

[cutewizard]

for the Spurs are the Spurs hehehehe

[LeBowen]

https://x.com/spursreporter/status/1828863621784306004?s=46

Got bullied into it, tbh.

[Leetonidas]

Is Dusty Garza ever right about anything?

[Mugen]

hopefully keldon got a bag tbh.

[John B]

https://x.com/spursreporter/status/1828863621784306004?s=46

Got bullied into it, tbh.

I read somewhere that Pop pulled Keldon aside and told him it’s the right thing to do.

[Mr. Body]

hopefully keldon got a bag tbh.

Free insurance for the rest of his life.

[Spurs Brazil]

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1828900367813489019

[Dex]

Free insurance for the rest of his life.

Does that include home, auto, and RV?

[BatManu20]

It’s official. Seen a Dick’s Sporting Goods.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWMBtHtXkAAG8Uz?format=jpg&name=large

[spurraider21]

old brandon paul gear on clearance imo

[cutewizard]

Just play the right way Spurssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss sssssss

[Maddog]

old brandon paul gear on clearance imo
It's a wonder it wasn't retired

https://preview.redd.it/brandon-paul-jersey-owners-v0-afbro4413t9d1.jpeg?auto=webp&9c455d0f

[KingKev]

BP3!!! Glad I didn’t sell my Brandon Paul jerseys.

[lefty]

https://x.com/spursreporter/status/1828863621784306004?s=46

Got bullied into it, tbh.

:lol he didn’t want CP0

[baseline bum]

https://twitter.com/spurs/status/1828900367813489019

Damn Keldon looks like he has dropped some significant weight. Good to see after having a pretty disastrous year last season and maybe he can earn the starting job again.

[KingKev]

Damn Keldon looks like he has dropped some significant weight. Good to see after having a pretty disastrous year last season and maybe he can earn the starting job again.

Saw somewhere today that SpursReport fb page is reporting he is down 33 lbs.

[baseline bum]

Saw somewhere today that SpursReport fb page is reporting he is down 33 lbs.

Yeah he looks it for sure. Coaching staff has to love seeing him already in such great shape a month before training camp.

[spurraider21]

even with him being fat and his schematic fit being questionable, he was part of the spurs best 5 man unit last year...

Tre - Vassell- Keldon - Sochan - Wemby

also, Tre - Vassell - Keldon - Champagnie - Wemby performed a little better but on only about 33 minutes sample size

a slimmed down Keldon that can actually compete defensively is his best bet at sticking around. being a fat undersized PF aint it

[Chinook]

even with him being fat and his schematic fit being questionable, he was part of the spurs best 5 man unit last year...

Tre - Vassell- Keldon - Sochan - Wemby

also, Tre - Vassell - Keldon - Champagnie - Wemby performed a little better but on only about 33 minutes sample size

a slimmed down Keldon that can actually compete defensively is his best bet at sticking around. being a fat undersized PF aint it

See, I disagree with this. Johnson fell off a cliff defensively after he lost weight. Like literally became a bottom-five defender in the league. He's been far better as a short PF than as a slow-footed wing. I don't know that becoming less able to box guys out or bully players in the paint is a better path for him. That's even more given these lineups where he's not supposed to have the ball in his hands much. Johnson losing weight might've opened up some options on offense. His floor game has grown a lot from his early garbage-man days. In his role as a sixth man, that will likely serve him well. However, is Paul, Vassell and Wemby are on the court with him, that game is much less important. I'd argue that being able to bust in the paint to grab key boards and put-backs would be much more valuable. Maybe dropping weight will help his shooting consistency.

I worry Keldon's last few years of development has been his and the team's effort to chase a potential version of him that really isn't there. Obviously him losing weight is good for his long-term health and conditioning. But I think a guy with his old frame who learned to set great screens, knock down shots and defend in the post might've had a legit amount of upside. That only became more true once they lucked into Wemby, who still has a lot of development ahead of him in those areas. Looking at this roster, Johnson could be looking at a lot of PF minutes. Him becoming less able to play that position doesn't feel like the right move.

[CGD]

^ totally agree with this take. Keldons strength is (was?) at the undersized PF. I always thought it’d be ideally if hed become something like a Bonzi Well’s type off the bench. Match up nightmare, energy guy, beating up on the backup.

But maybe he can still play with the same ferocity and strength? Losing the weight doesn’t necessarily means losing the strength, but we’ll see.

[gambit1990]

It’s official. Seen a Dick’s Sporting Goods.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWMBtHtXkAAG8Uz?format=jpg&name=large
best PG in spurs history.

[The Truth #6]

I thought KJ started the year skinny than gained it all back? Or has it been two years in a row like that, I can't remember.

Regardless, they seem to want him skinny and playing at the 3 I'm assuming.

I expect the bad D to continue further (hopefully not) but if he can play with CP he might find a more suitable role on offense - open 3s and drive to the paint when open.

[spurraider21]

Keldons ability to play bully ball in the paint doesn’t come from him playing against PFs though. If his weight loss makes his drive game worse then yeah I’d agree this is the wrong path. Tbd

[Chinook]

Keldons ability to play bully ball in the paint doesn’t come from him playing against PFs though. If his weight loss makes his drive game worse then yeah I’d agree this is the wrong path. Tbd

If you mean him driving, it comes from him having a girth advantage over other players given his build and lower center of gravity. But I think he should also include getting into the paint without the ball to grab boards, and those came as a PF too. The main issue is that Keldon's weight loss hasn't been shown to meaningfully improve his agility. He has the same negatives but with fewer positives

[scott]

See, I disagree with this. Johnson fell off a cliff defensively after he lost weight. Like literally became a bottom-five defender in the league. He's been far better as a short PF than as a slow-footed wing. I don't know that becoming less able to box guys out or bully players in the paint is a better path for him. That's even more given these lineups where he's not supposed to have the ball in his hands much. Johnson losing weight might've opened up some options on offense. His floor game has grown a lot from his early garbage-man days. In his role as a sixth man, that will likely serve him well. However, is Paul, Vassell and Wemby are on the court with him, that game is much less important. I'd argue that being able to bust in the paint to grab key boards and put-backs would be much more valuable. Maybe dropping weight will help his shooting consistency.

I worry Keldon's last few years of development has been his and the team's effort to chase a potential version of him that really isn't there. Obviously him losing weight is good for his long-term health and conditioning. But I think a guy with his old frame who learned to set great screens, knock down shots and defend in the post might've had a legit amount of upside. That only became more true once they lucked into Wemby, who still has a lot of development ahead of him in those areas. Looking at this roster, Johnson could be looking at a lot of PF minutes. Him becoming less able to play that position doesn't feel like the right move.

Remember that game against CLE a few years ago when he had 21 rebounds? I thought that was going to be the future Keldon. Undersized PF who still shot well from 3 and could get you a sneaky 8-10 rpg. That's also a guy who would be far more useful on this team like you said. Bummer.

[Mr. Body]

Best move of the offseason was not going after Trae Young. ESPN podcast suggesting they could have had him if they wanted.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNKsyoB7H_k

What a disaster that would be. Take it with a grain of salt, but I've been saying for a while that Atlanta is desperate to get rid of him. His performance in the play-in was especially egregious. Good Lord was he awful.

Thank God the Spurs weren't interested. They passed on Dillingham, who is the same mold, small, good offense, beyond negative on defense. By now it seems clear the SAS are looking for a strong defensive identity above all else. And I do think they're avoiding taking on long-term salary at this point.

Also... how is Castle not Atlanta's pick? He would have been exactly what they needed. Actually, I guess Dyson Daniels does the same thing, so fine.

[thOOdee]

Best move of the offseason was not going after Trae Young. ESPN podcast suggesting they could have had him if they wanted.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNKsyoB7H_k

What a disaster that would be. Take it with a grain of salt, but I've been saying for a while that Atlanta is desperate to get rid of him. His performance in the play-in was especially egregious. Good Lord was he awful.

Thank God the Spurs weren't interested. They passed on Dillingham, who is the same mold, small, good offense, beyond negative on defense. By now it seems clear the SAS are looking for a strong defensive identity above all else. And I do think they're avoiding taking on long-term salary at this point.



:tu 100%

[The Truth #6]

I'm down for defensive identity. Easier for small market teams to attract great defensive players I imagine.

[KingKev]

So I was day dreaming today and was thinking there actually is a non zero chance PATFO brought Chris Paul in to tutor Sochan on running point. Imagine.

[tonight...you]

So I was day dreaming today and was thinking there actually is a non zero chance PATFO brought Chris Paul in to tutor Sochan on running point. Imagine.
Sweetness.
So this is what you daydream...

[KingKev]

Looks like Keldon really was bullied into dropping 3 per his latest post

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10134224-keldon-johnson-switches-from-no-3-spurs-jersey-to-no-0-after-chris-paul-contract

[itzsoweezee]

Looks like Keldon really was bullied into dropping 3 per his latest post

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10134224-keldon-johnson-switches-from-no-3-spurs-jersey-to-no-0-after-chris-paul-contract

“bullied”

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

0 is a cool number

[KingKev]

“bullied”

as evidenced by the frustrated emoji on his social media posting announcing the number change lol

[heyheymymy]

K3LDON becomes KELD0N

[Chinook]

Oftentimes, the player giving up the number gets paid or has the Paul player donate to charity. If he really didn't want to give up the number, I could see Johnson having a big concession out of Paul.

[rjv]

we should create a 30 page thread dedicated to speculation regarding the dynamics behind Keldon's surrendering his number over to CP3.

[Tyronn Lue]

CP0 would have been too good.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bShptANPTo

[cutewizard]

Pop and Paul

The Epochal Collaboration

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jiyXdsG7lHU

[John B]

He seems to have embraced the mentoring role and the guys are having fun and getting along. This would be a departure from the CP3 that was a jerk in locker rooms. It’s a pleasant surprise

[ambchang]

the first possession in that breakdown showed he just ignored wemby on a clear open path dunk, he hates wemby and is jealous of his fame and hype at such a young age. I heard CP3 and wemby don’t get along and is fighting of too dog status in the locker room.

Should ship cp3 out because he can’t be there when he’s not submitting to wemby on this team. He will drive wemby to sign with the lakers in 3 years.

[pookenstein]

the first possession in that breakdown showed he just ignored wemby on a clear open path dunk, he hates wemby and is jealous of his fame and hype at such a young age. I heard CP3 and wemby don’t get along and is fighting of too dog status in the locker room.

Should ship cp3 out because he can’t be there when he’s not submitting to wemby on this team. He will drive wemby to sign with the lakers in 3 years.

I saw that too. Hope his kids drown in poop.

[DAF86]

Bump in appreciation of this beast, even at fucking 40 years old.

To think folks in here said they didn't want him here, even on his prime. :lmao

[cutewizard]

Our spiritual leader

[cutewizard]

Paul and Manu would have been divine...........

[spursparker9]

Man...if we could have him in his prime

[RC_Drunkford]

CP3/Aldridge pick and pop would've been a beauty to watch

[kxs783kms]

Bump in appreciation of this beast, even at fucking 40 years old.

To think folks in here said they didn't want him here, even on his prime. :lmao

I wanted him, just not for that massive contract that he signed a few years ago. He wasn't worth it at that age. But he's definitely worth it for the contract that we signed him on.

[Chomag]

I always hated cp3 because of his flopping and antics but I always knew the dude could ball out and run a team. HIS PG IQ is off the charts.

It was hard for me but I've slowly come around to becoming a big fan of his and enjoy watching him now, I think what has helped is he has toned way down those unlikable antics as he's aged, and has become a solid leader for many players to look up to

[exstatic]

Bump in appreciation of this beast, even at fucking 40 years old.

To think folks in here said they didn't want him here, even on his prime. :lmao
In his prime, he did shit like run off the court crying when the Spurs beat NO in game 7 on their court without congratulating the winners, and lead a posse of Rockets through the bowels of the Staples Center to foment a conflict in the Clippers locker room.

[DAF86]

In his prime, he did shit like run off the court crying when the Spurs beat NO in game 7 on their court without congratulating the winners, and lead a posse of Rockets through the bowels of the Staples Center to foment a conflict in the Clippers locker room.

Who the fuck cares? He would have beasted here. Imagine Paul with Pop taking care of his management so that he wouldn't explode on every playoffs.

[exstatic]

Who the fuck cares? He would have beasted here. Imagine Paul with Pop taking care of his management so that he wouldn't explode on every playoffs.

He also managed his trade to Houston and picked up his option when we wanted to sign him that summer. He literally did it to himself.

And yes, I care about that stupid shit.

[spurraider21]

He also managed his trade to Houston and picked up his option when we wanted to sign him that summer. He literally did it to himself.

And yes, I care about that stupid shit.
did he also change high schools?

[exstatic]

did he also change high schools?

Nope. Four years at West Forsyth. The point of my post was that the only place you need to point fingers at for prime Chris Paul never getting here is Chris Paul.

[RC_Drunkford]

He also managed his trade to Houston and picked up his option when we wanted to sign him that summer. He literally did it to himself.

And yes, I care about that stupid shit.

oh we know. Which is why you only like about 5% of NBA players and all of them are scrubs. Like guys who want to learn about penguins. Are you a Spurs employee?

[exstatic]

oh we know. Which is why you only like about 5% of NBA players and all of them are scrubs. Like guys who want to learn about penguins. Are you a Spurs employee?

Actually I probably like about 25%.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3ExQ2LmeTw

[DAF86]

Bump in appreciation of this beast, even at fucking 40 years old.

To think folks in here said they didn't want him here, even on his prime. :lmao

This. Again.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGngvs_W3ic

[tim_duncan_fan]

Genius signing. He is exactly what our dumb babies needed.

[Manu-of-steel]

CP3 raised the Spurs team IQ exponentially. I think I saw him talk to Keldon after Keldon showboated and got a technical foul in the closing seconds of the game against Utah. CP3 also gathered the Spurs after a play that he didnt like. He is a coach on the floor, and the Spurs are lucky to have someone like CP3

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvCb0W--w4I

[cutewizard]

Man, i just hope that CP3 remains with the Spurs........

become Assistant Coach, and win a ring as Assistant Coach

[Manu-of-steel]

CP3 appreciates Castle's attitude, both on offense and defense especially. I think Castle has Kawhi-like dawg mentality on defense. Kawhi, in his rookie season, was already a pesky defender. Castle is giving me the same vibe as a rookie. Hope Castle doesn't have an Uncle like Kawhi��

[cutewizard]

CP3 appreciates Castle's attitude, both on offense and defense especially. I think Castle has Kawhi-like dawg mentality on defense. Kawhi, in his rookie season, was already a pesky defender. Castle is giving me the same vibe as a rookie. Hope Castle doesn't have an Uncle like Kawhi��

He has good parents as mentors

[ambchang]

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42509302/how-chris-paul-victor-wembanyama-evolving-together

[Manu-of-steel]

Nice read!

[Manu-of-steel]

CP3 really increased the collective basketball IQ of the Spurs. It's noticeable how CP3 really talks to the guys if he sees something. CP3 demands high-IQ plays, and the guys follow his lead. In the closing seconds against the Jazz, knowing that the quotient system is in effect, CP3 encouraged the Spurs to keep playing- resulting to a buzzer-beating three pointer by Castle. These "small" things add up. CP3 is showing the young guys toplay smart.

[LeBowen]

CP3 really increased the collective basketball IQ of the Spurs. It's noticeable how CP3 really talks to the guys if he sees something. CP3 demands high-IQ plays, and the guys follow his lead. In the closing seconds against the Jazz, knowing that the quotient system is in effect, CP3 encouraged the Spurs to keep playing- resulting to a buzzer-beating three pointer by Castle. These "small" things add up. CP3 is showing the young guys toplay smart.

He's constantly directing traffic, even during his FTs at the end, he was yelling at someone because they took the wrong spot and demanded for someone else to get under the basket.

[Manu-of-steel]

Coach Mitch and Pop are lucky to have someone like CP3- a coach on the floor where the action happens. In an interview, CP3 claimed that he likes to compete and win. He's not here just to play and receive a salary, he wants to win. And I like that mentality that he instills in the young guys. To do everything for them to win, including the "small" things- proper positioning inside the court both in defense and offense, offering insights on how to guard some players, proper shot clock management. These things are invaluable to our guys. Hope CP3 stays as a Spurs even after his playing time is done. He can help our guys immensely.

[TDomination]

Coach Mitch and Pop are lucky to have someone like CP3- a coach on the floor where the action happens. In an interview, CP3 claimed that he likes to compete and win. He's not here just to play and receive a salary, he wants to win. And I like that mentality that he instills in the young guys. To do everything for them to win, including the "small" things- proper positioning inside the court both in defense and offense, offering insights on how to guard some players, proper shot clock management. These things are invaluable to our guys. Hope CP3 stays as a Spurs even after his playing time is done. He can help our guys immensely.

Yeah the winning mentallity needed to come from somewhere.
It seemed secondary for the past few years.

And though I can understand from a point of view that we didn't have a team that could win anyways and we were building something that would be more than just winning 1 year but for many years to come, it still is discouraging to see when your head coach is very vocal that he does not care about wins and losses.

It makes me, as a fan, care less about a team. Why should I care about rooting for them if they don't even care about winning.

But that seems to be changing.

[Mr. Body]

Yeah the winning mentallity needed to come from somewhere.
It seemed secondary for the past few years.

And though I can understand from a point of view that we didn't have a team that could win anyways and we were building something that would be more than just winning 1 year but for many years to come, it still is discouraging to see when your head coach is very vocal that he does not care about wins and losses.

It makes me, as a fan, care less about a team. Why should I care about rooting for them if they don't even care about winning.

But that seems to be changing.

You all need to settle down about Pop not wanting to win. There's a complete misunderstanding here.

Sean said on one broadcast that he asked Popovich why they weren't running a good portion of the old playbook and Pop said, "Because we can't."

The young players just weren't able to win games. And this isn't a matter of desire or effort. It's a complex game that's hard from knowing how to kill off runs, how to generate points when everything is failing, seeing what teams are doing to adjust to you, how to exploit matchups. Different events mean different things according to when in a game they happen. When we had five young players running around, none of them knew what to do. And when you have five young guys, if any one or two of them make a mistake, no one can cover for them.

If someone is setting a screen the wrong way or missing a key rotation, how do you fix all these things?

It's a mess.

Mitch has been a great coach so far, but he's building on what happened before. And the first part of the season was a lot of moving around the parts including the veterans and seeing what could work. But let's not pretend they never cared about winning before; they just had a ton of very young minds and talents who didn't have any on-court help trying to learn it all on the fly. That's changed in a major way and why they went out and got Paul and Barnes.

[Manu-of-steel]

I think this is true. Even Wemby claimed that for the majority of games last year, he didnt know what he was doing. We have a bunch of very young guys who needed guidance in almost every facet of their game for them to click. The Spurs are like headless chicken running around the past few years. Then came CP3 and HB. Their veteran presence and knowledge of the game unlocked the potential of our guys. I wouldnt mind adding another high IQ veteran for our team. But for now, it's a joy to watch our team start to play with poise, and WIN games!

[RC_Drunkford]

well it didn't help that Pop wasn't running any defensive schemes in the tank for Wemby season and then was like "we have to figure out who he is" for about 30 games last season and let them play without any structure or actual PG.

[scott]

1865972317349720168

[cutewizard]

Well deserved

[Spursfanfromafar]

1865972317349720168

Very nice to see this. Cp3 was overwhelmed with the Spurs' teammates admiration and gift for him. Here is hoping that the Spurs make it to the playoffs this year. That would be a great tribute to the Point God.

With Vassel getting to play more, Wemby improving, Castle gaining reps, Sochan playing hard, Champ being a revelation and Barnes and Bassey being useful, this team can indeed push above it's weight and compete for that No 8 spot. It's a good place to be for Wemby and co...as they get the vital experience to compete going forward.

[cutewizard]

Incalculable is veteran leadership

I hope Durant spends his last good year with the Spurs

Even just one year......

[TDomination]

1865972317349720168

that is really really really awesome to see. I’m so glad he’s here with the spurs

[heyheymymy]

Pretty cool to see CP3 with tears in his eyes. Very sentimental family moment for him and I hope it brings the group closer together.

Starting to feel like a real good brotherhood is forming and that chemistry translates on the court.

[heyheymymy]

You can even see RC back there, I think. B Dub is there as well as Mitch.

Bet Paul really appreciated this gesture.

Man I was not prepared to like CP3 as much as I do but that was such a smart acquisition by San Antonio and Chris Paul is such a blessing on this team. Brings all the good shit with leadership, wisdom, experience, poise, well spoken, active with his team mates and the game plan, legendary in the league. Find this guy the fountain of youth or something we need more time. Wish he came over before GSW.

[BatManu20]

Incalculable is veteran leadership

I hope Durant spends his last good year with the Spurs

Even just one year......

Same. Been calling Durant to the Spurs towards the end of his career for a while now to play alongside Wemby. Makes too much sense not to happen. He's a FA after next season. Should still have some left in the tank tbh and would slide right into that 3 spot for us.

Side note: I'll never forget KD's Uncle saying on that radio show after KD signed with Golden State that if he hadn't gone to the Warriors, the Spurs were his next choice to go team up with old Timmy, Tony, Manu, Kawhi, & LMA. If only :cry

[The Truth #6]

Interesting to see how he kept acknowledging how hard he is to get along with. Very humble.

[exstatic]

I didn’t know when he signed that he was within striking distance of the second spot on the all time assist list. He’s also within reach of second on the steals list, also held by JKidd. Maybe the fact that both of these were within reach was the reason he signed for only one year?

[Strategic]

Great accomplishment! Wonder how many of these came against the good guys over the years? Really happy these last few are for the right team.

[baseline bum]

Same. Been calling Durant to the Spurs towards the end of his career for a while now to play alongside Wemby. Makes too much sense not to happen. He's a FA after next season. Should still have some left in the tank tbh and would slide right into that 3 spot for us.

Side note: I'll never forget KD's Uncle saying on that radio show after KD signed with Golden State that if he hadn't gone to the Warriors, the Spurs were his next choice to go team up with old Timmy, Tony, Manu, Kawhi, & LMA. If only :cry

Tim would have still retired though. Once he screwed up the good knee you knew it was over. Oh well can't complain since things have turned out well, as crazy as seeing prime KD and prime Kawhi together could have been.

[Mugen]

Good group of guys tbh

[Spursfanfromafar]

Same. Been calling Durant to the Spurs towards the end of his career for a while now to play alongside Wemby. Makes too much sense not to happen. He's a FA after next season. Should still have some left in the tank tbh and would slide right into that 3 spot for us.

Side note: I'll never forget KD's Uncle saying on that radio show after KD signed with Golden State that if he hadn't gone to the Warriors, the Spurs were his next choice to go team up with old Timmy, Tony, Manu, Kawhi, & LMA. If only :cry

KD's game will fit very well with Wemby. He will be a great PF alongside Wemby till he runs out of juice. Would take a ransom for the Suns to trade him this season and I bet they won't, with their history with the Spurs as well. Next season, there are better chances as his salary is expiring.

Dude liked playing for Pop in the Olympics and was Pop's main weapon. He seemed genuinely happy and eager to get Pop his coveted Olympic gold. So there are great vibes there. And Wemby, in a way is modelling his offensive game on KD. So he would be thrilled to play alongside him. I also believe KD will play until he is 40 years old like LeBron has, without losing much of his agility, output as his game is tuned to do that. May be he will slip a bit on defense, but interestingly his defense is in the 87th percentile at age 36 and so we can expect that to remain good in advanced years as well. Castle and Vassell will also be great fits. In fact a Castle, Vassell, Champagnie, KD, Wemby lineup will be gold on both ends, provided Castle develops his jumper even further.

But getting KD is going to be a pipe-dream. Houston for e.g. can simply swap its picks with Phoenix and allowing the Suns to control their draft destiny and also has more talent beyond their core - Sengun, Green and Amen Thompson to trade - Eason, Sheppard plus Adams plus maybe Dillon Brooks and all the Suns' picks. It wont be easy for the Spurs to match this offer.

[scott]

You can even see RC back there, I think. B Dub is there as well as Mitch.

Bet Paul really appreciated this gesture.

Man I was not prepared to like CP3 as much as I do but that was such a smart acquisition by San Antonio and Chris Paul is such a blessing on this team. Brings all the good shit with leadership, wisdom, experience, poise, well spoken, active with his team mates and the game plan, legendary in the league. Find this guy the fountain of youth or something we need more time. Wish he came over before GSW.

I admit that I don't know the CP3 backstory as well as others, but I wonder if the reputation of being difficult to work with stems from him just having a higher standard than others. People who demand excellence are hard to work with for people who don't. I prefer those who strive for excellence and acknowledge the difficulty is the price of greatness.

[JohnnyMax]

https://youtube.com/watch?v=CZQ50x5pZeM

[JohnnyMax]

https://youtube.com/watch?v=cWNPgqzfU0I

[baseline bum]

I admit that I don't know the CP3 backstory as well as others, but I wonder if the reputation of being difficult to work with stems from him just having a higher standard than others. People who demand excellence are hard to work with for people who don't. I prefer those who strive for excellence and acknowledge the difficulty is the price of greatness.

Plus I can't really hold it against CP3 that strip club loving fatass Harden got sick of him and ran him out of town.

[Mugen]

I admit that I don't know the CP3 backstory as well as others, but I wonder if the reputation of being difficult to work with stems from him just having a higher standard than others. People who demand excellence are hard to work with for people who don't. I prefer those who strive for excellence and acknowledge the difficulty is the price of greatness.

That. But also CP3 is a well-documented asshole :lol

[spurraider21]

stockton missing 22 games in 19 seasons is wild

[baseline bum]

stockton missing 22 games in 19 seasons is wild

Not as wild as his teammate missing child support payments after knocking up a 13 year-old tbh

[LeBowen]

stockton missing 22 games in 19 seasons is wild

Stockton missed 4 games in his first 13 seasons, 1062 games.
Had a surgery at 35, missed start of the season, 14 games.
Played 442 more games without missing another one until he retired.

Malone played 18 seasons with the Jazz.
82 games in 10 seasons.
81 game in 5 seasons.
80 games in 2 seasons.
49/50 in lockout season.

They showed up for work every day.

[Atl Spur]

1865972317349720168

Dope! Congrats to the big homie!! Nothing wrong with pushing these young boys in my opinion.

[Atl Spur]

BTW, Stockton was a monster!!! So under appreciated by casuals!

[John B]

stockton missing 22 games in 19 seasons is wild

Stockton with almost 4000 more assists than 2nd place CP3 is more impressive

[spurraider21]

Stockton with almost 4000 more assists than 2nd place CP3 is more impressive
those go hand in hand. over 200 more career games played, thats 2.5 full seasons. for his career he didnt average about 1 more assist per game than Paul as well.

magic has the highest career APG, but he played only 900 career games, thats nearly 400 less than Paul

[lefty]

1865972317349720168

:cry so fucking nice
:cry spurs culture

[lefty]

BTW, Stockton was a monster!!! So under appreciated by casuals!

Stockton was an overrated system pg tbh

[rjv]

BTW, Stockton was a monster!!! So under appreciated by casuals!

he was but he was also the beneficiary of a very unstoppable pick and roll and a lot of credit for that has to go to malone.

[Mr. Body]

Stockton with almost 4000 more assists than 2nd place CP3 is more impressive

A ton of Stockton's assists were Utah home cooking. They were known to give Stockton assists like candy.

Kind of like how Jordan once got more steals in a game than the other team got turnovers.

[heyheymymy]

I admit that I don't know the CP3 backstory as well as others, but I wonder if the reputation of being difficult to work with stems from him just having a higher standard than others. People who demand excellence are hard to work with for people who don't. I prefer those who strive for excellence and acknowledge the difficulty is the price of greatness.

Yeah how much of that is "how dare he tell a top dog like me I missed a rotation etc"

It works in SA because all we have are lil puppies right now who know they better listen up

[KingKev]

Imagine Robinson has a back court of Stockton and Hornacek instead of AJ and Del Negro

[rjv]

Not as wild as his teammate missing child support payments after knocking up a 13 year-old tbh

two anti-vaxxers who deserved each other.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSW-Ga3hh4U

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWNPgqzfU0I

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rg3I5T9t2zc

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJpg4I-tdII


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb-aCW-F4A0

[ace3g]

https://x.com/spurs/status/1866603804722077860

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJpg4I-tdII

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGSu1FCngNc

[ambchang]

Somewhat relevant, article about stocktons assist padding:
https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nba/news/john-stockton-stat-padding-controversy-fact-checking-nba-record/0de01a2471ee6b45d46c84fd

So the assertion is that there is padding for Stockton, but so did the padding took place for Paul and kidd.

I think some of that is due to the Scott skiles 30 assists game, where the score keeper was actually doing it out of spite but was actually praised by management for it. The story went out and people thinks that’s the case for every game during that era.

Stocktons passes were often simple post entry passes to Malone or pick and roll passes. They weren’t necessarily flashy like magics but they were effective. I still thinks he orchestrated that jazz offence and Malone was the finisher. You can sub Malone out for a Barkley, Ewing, robinson, kemp, hakeem, moses or even a lower level player like Cummings (pre injury) or buck williams and the jazz offence would be more of less the same. But I can’t think of a single player you can sub for Stockton in that offence during that era. I’d say Paul would be the only person who can substitute for Stockton in the history of the league.

That said, he’s still a dirty conspiracy nutcase.

[quentin_compson]

I remember when CP3 was still with the New Orleans Hornets, quite a lot of people would complain about the, let's say, liberal way the score-keepers there would count his assists. "Paul just has to be near the play and he gets an assist", to exaggerate a common comment back in the day.

[LeBowen]

Assist have always been generously handed out in the NBA.
I'd never count an assist for anything more than one dribble unless it's a straight line drive to the basket and the pass connected the receiver with it.

[Obstructed_View]

Assist have always been generously handed out in the NBA.
I'd never count an assist for anything more than one dribble unless it's a straight line drive to the basket and the pass connected the receiver with it.

No they haven't. Last week I watched Victor kick out to Devin, who made an escape dribble and stepped to the left, took a three, hit it, and was Victor's tenth assist. Nobody said boo. In the old days that doesn't go down as an assist. Based on just that, I'm pretty certain that CP3 benefitted more than Stock just for playing in this era.

Even the most egregious homer Stockton assist in SLC would be counted today without a problem.

[spurraider21]

No they haven't. Last week I watched Victor kick out to Devin, who made an escape dribble and stepped to the left, took a three, hit it, and was Victor's tenth assist. Nobody said boo. In the old days that doesn't go down as an assist. Based on just that, I'm pretty certain that CP3 benefitted more than Stock just for playing in this era.

Even the most egregious homer Stockton assist in SLC would be counted today without a problem.
wait this one at 1:39?

its a skip pass over a defenders head to an open vassell while his defender is pinned behind a keldon screen. derozan has to close out hard which allowed vassell to just relocate and get the shot off. derozan made a nice recovery since devin didnt put up a pump, but thats an easy assist call


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_30gaQm1-I

[Obstructed_View]

wait this one at 1:39?

its a skip pass over a defenders head to an open vassell while his defender is pinned behind a keldon screen. derozan has to close out hard which allowed vassell to just relocate and get the shot off. derozan made a nice recovery since devin didnt put up a pump, but thats an easy assist call


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_30gaQm1-I
Yes. Nice job on finding it. That's an easy assist call today. 30 years ago it was not. Maybe I remember wrong, but I watched a lot of basketball back then. The ones people accused Utah of giving Stockton at home were less egregious than the example above IIRC.

[exstatic]

No they haven't. Last week I watched Victor kick out to Devin, who made an escape dribble and stepped to the left, took a three, hit it, and was Victor's tenth assist. Nobody said boo. In the old days that doesn't go down as an assist. Based on just that, I'm pretty certain that CP3 benefitted more than Stock just for playing in this era.

Even the most egregious homer Stockton assist in SLC would be counted today without a problem.

The rule is that you can take either a power or an escape dribble as long as you immediately move into a scoring position, and it’s still an assist. The converse, receiving a direct pass, no dribble, but you hold the ball for 3-4 seconds is NOT a credited assist. What people are laughing about is that back in the day, MJ was once credited with more steals than the other team had turnovers. There was little oversight or review in the old days. The joke used to be that Stockton got assists on his teammates FTs. I’m sure it never happened, but I’m also sure the Salt Palace scorers were encouraged to make anything borderline an assist.

[spurraider21]

Yes. Nice job on finding it. That's an easy assist call today. 30 years ago it was not. Maybe I remember wrong, but I watched a lot of basketball back then. The ones people accused Utah of giving Stockton at home were less egregious than the example above IIRC.
i dont think theres any era where that wouldnt have been an assist tbh

[LeBowen]

https://youtu.be/LXbcUPguaZ4?si=jhXVfX2qhHSQ1zY0

Guitar Hero during 2008 series. :rollin

[spursistan]

That trade deadline is going to be interesting.. CP3 seems really invested in this group.

1869976220168786308

[slick'81]

Cp3 isnt going anywhere

[T Park]

Paul has been fantastic and his influence tremendous. Why at all would you or anyone else even consider trading him?!!

[John B]

That trade deadline is going to be interesting.. CP3 seems really invested in this group.

1869976220168786308

Last night’s game I think featured the Spurs best starters and rotation to win. Is the Spurs already done with rebuilding young players in favor of winning? At least Castle was able to log in 20 minutes of backup duties. It seems CP3 is influencing the FO to win now. If so, are we to expect some movements by trade deadline to add maybe veteran pieces to fortify the rotation? If so Collins could be on the move for a Valanciunas maybe?

[The Truth #6]

No, I think Mitch is prioritizing winning lineups because he understandably realizes this is his moment of opportunity while Pop is out. I don't see any push to make big trades.

[Ocotillo]

https://www.fiestaspices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20184_20240605-600x600.jpg

Spurs need to get Fiesta on board advertising.

[scott]

CP3 been passing at an elite level this season, at age 39.

1872794592577515772

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3J8-Ublbgg

[CGD]

Cp3 isnt going anywhere

I think at the start of the season he may have been eying a possible buy out to join a contender, but that seems less likely now. He seems to like this group.

For the record I still find it super weird that he’s in a Spurs uniform after all the wars, but im glad he’s here.

[The Truth #6]

He's mellowed with age, thankfully. Less whirling dervish flops and stealthy nut punches, et cetera.

[Strategic]

He's mellowed with age, thankfully. Less whirling dervish flops and stealthy nut punches, et cetera.
Probably easier on his body just staying on his feet.

[Manu-of-steel]

Spurs really needed his IQ,veteran leadership, and winning attitude.

[Mr. Body]

No, I think Mitch is prioritizing winning lineups because he understandably realizes this is his moment of opportunity while Pop is out. I don't see any push to make big trades.

You think he's going rogue and trying to win games on the sly? Lol

[The Truth #6]

You think he's going rogue and trying to win games on the sly? Lol


You think he's going rogue and trying to win games on the sly? Lol

More urgency to win is what I would say as it affects his career potentially. Pop in contrast has complete latitude to play the long game.

[spurraider21]

pretty funny that 33 games in, Paul and Barnes are the only 2 guys that have started all 33 games, with Champagnie being the only player to suit up for all 33 games (has come off the bench some)

[BatManu20]

This team is nowhere near 19 wins already without CP3. He's quietly been our MVP outside of Vic this year tbh.

1879173100308517353

[tim_duncan_fan]

He's just a sheer catalyst. A magical synergistic piece.

Has turned out to be a hell of a signing simply because he demands that the young players on the team cut out the dumb shit they like to do and helps them cut it out. Hopefully, they are learning something to the point where if he is not here to hold their hands and tell them not to be dumbasses next year, they will still be ok.

[Mugen]

Obviously, he'd had his issues in the playoffs. But just one of the all time floor raisers.

What LeBron is doing at 40 is nuts. But what Paul is doing at a similar age isn't too far off tbh.

[exstatic]

Obviously, he'd had his issues in the playoffs. But just one of the all time floor raisers.

What LeBron is doing at 40 is nuts. But what Paul is doing at a similar age isn't too far off tbh.

LeBron is stat padding when he can,but no longer affects winning.

[RC_Drunkford]

I really hope CP3 stays for another season. He‘s been great

[Manu-of-steel]

CP3 with high-IQ plays last night. The foul bait he did on Lebron to put Lakers on the penalty in the 4th quarter,the assist to Vassell for a 3 pointer. The several plays where he hunted mismatches for Barnes in the post.

[KingKev]

I really hope CP3 stays for another season. He‘s been great

Same. A vet min if we build a winner would be amazing but he probably gets another 1yr 10m as Tre Jones drops off the books either way.

[scott]

Last night was a pretty monumental shift in things, IMO. If we lose against the Lakers, and then slid into a deeper losing streak against MEM, I could easily have seen a scenario where we looking to trade CP3 to a contender (or just bought him out so he could sign with one) and just called it a season. Now we have some feel good momentum coming home for two and that's the furthest thing from our minds.

[ambchang]

The spurs lack a floor general. Last year the spurs played much better with tre jones than without because Tre can set up simple plays and direct traffic. It’s not a surprise they are that much better with CP3 in place this year.

For all the issues people have with the roster, what the spurs need to figure out is who will be the future point guard and who will be the backup. Lots of talk about dumping tre jones but he is an excellent backup point who was shoved into the role of a starter last season. With CP3 in place tre has done reasonably well (outside of scoring) in very limited minutes this season. While most think castle will be the long term starter I still think he’d absolutely shine in the point forward role. He’s strong enough to handle most SF, he’s relatively athletic, he can guard PGs so we can afford to have a PG who isn’t the strongest defender and hide him somewhere else (ahem Fox).

CP3 won’t be effective for long, even if he decides to stay one more season the starting PG role is a glaring hole to me.

[100%duncan]

We might need to actually keep CP3 until he retires. At least for the next season if he still wants to play.

[The Truth #6]

The lineup with Castle playing alongside CP3 allows Tre to get some backup minutes. For this season that seems like a good choice.

[slick'81]

Amazing signing

[Manu-of-steel]

Just dont play him big minutes in B2B games, that will give us diminishing return.

[Ice009]

Yep. CP3 has been great for the Spurs. I just don't know if the young guys still need a lot more time with him. Half a season definitely isn't enough, but I'm also not sure if the full season will be either. If he doesn't stay (I hope he does), they're going to need to spend resources to get someone anywhere near as good. Also got to be careful of not overplaying him too much. Keep his as fresh as possible for the 4th quarters. I really like the lineup with both Steph and CP3 as I think that they help each other out there.

[scott]

The spurs lack a floor general. Last year the spurs played much better with tre jones than without because Tre can set up simple plays and direct traffic. It’s not a surprise they are that much better with CP3 in place this year.

For all the issues people have with the roster, what the spurs need to figure out is who will be the future point guard and who will be the backup. Lots of talk about dumping tre jones but he is an excellent backup point who was shoved into the role of a starter last season. With CP3 in place tre has done reasonably well (outside of scoring) in very limited minutes this season. While most think castle will be the long term starter I still think he’d absolutely shine in the point forward role. He’s strong enough to handle most SF, he’s relatively athletic, he can guard PGs so we can afford to have a PG who isn’t the strongest defender and hide him somewhere else (ahem Fox).

CP3 won’t be effective for long, even if he decides to stay one more season the starting PG role is a glaring hole to me.

Yeah, everyone wants to dump Tre but he's been pretty good this season and I wouldn't be surprised to see him resigned on something similar to the 2/20 he's finishing now (though I'd hope for something more like 2/14 based on what backup PGs are making these days. That would still be more than double what his brother, who's better than him, makes).

[cd98]

CP3 obviously is making sense of the chaos that existed last year without a real point guard. That's not to dis on Tre, but Tre is a good backup point guard and Sochan was not a point guard. But the problem is that CP3 is closer to retiring than being the piece to bring SA back into the playoffs. I hope they rest Paul more because ultimately, it's good that he mentors the young players and shows them how to win, but we need to draft our next point guard. I don't think Castle is the answer at point guard, even though I think he will be a contributing player.

[LeBowen]

Yeah, everyone wants to dump Tre but he's been pretty good this season and I wouldn't be surprised to see him resigned on something similar to the 2/20 he's finishing now (though I'd hope for something more like 2/14 based on what backup PGs are making these days. That would still be more than double what his brother, who's better than him, makes).

The most realistic outcome is that we retain this roster with a backup big upgrade over Collins and a couple of solid free agents like LaRavia or NAW.
We'll try to trade up in the draft, won't be able to find a partner, we'll draft a wing with the best pick and kick those other picks all the way to 20232.

[scott]

The most realistic outcome is that we retain this roster with a backup big upgrade over Collins and a couple of solid free agents like LaRavia or NAW.
We'll try to trade up in the draft, won't be able to find a partner, we'll draft a wing with the best pick and kick those other picks all the way to 20232.

You are most likely correct. It's like our FO has mind-melded at the idiots who populate the Spurs subreddit and still believe that Devin and Keldon are the core.

[Bruno]

A quite big surprise with Chris Paul is that he has been able to stay healthy. Injuries were a concern for him this past couple of years.

Paul came to Spurs with the right mindset. He isn't driven by his ego and isn't trying to prove he still has "it". He is sincerely trying to improve a young team with all his experience.
A telling stat is the following: Paul played 461 minutes alongside Castle. In these 461 minutes, Castle usage% is 22.2% while Paul usage% is 14.8%. It's remarkable that an all time great is sharing the ball like that with a 20 years old rookie. Kudos to Paul.

Paul, given his age, is obviously a temporary fix. The issue for Spurs is not to take a step back when he will leave the team.

[Pauleta14]

A quite big surprise with Chris Paul is that he has been able to stay healthy. Injuries were a concern for him this past couple of years.

Paul came to Spurs with the right mindset. He isn't driven by his ego and isn't trying to prove he still has "it". He is sincerely trying to improve a young team with all his experience.
A telling stat is the following: Paul played 461 minutes alongside Castle. In these 461 minutes, Castle usage% is 22.2% while Paul usage% is 14.8%. It's remarkable that an all time great is sharing the ball like that with a 20 years old rookie. Kudos to Paul.

Paul, given his age, is obviously a temporary fix. The issue for Spurs is not to take a step back when he will leave the team.

Whatever we'll lose in experience and game management we'll win in dynamism, ability to attack the rim and who knows maybe start doing pick and rolls to get Wemby easy buckets (which Cp just can't do anymore bc he doesn't have the legs).

Great addition but mostly because of the poverty of the roster. He's just not reliable on a season long as a starter.

One season should be enough unless he wants to say and learn the coaching job as a limited PT veteran.

[RC_Drunkford]

They should keep him as the bench PG for next season. That would obviously mean we either trade for Fox, make Castle the PG or draft a PG.

[Obstructed_View]

Chris Paul went through a sequence last night where he was throwing several cheap shots and I had to go, "Oh yeah, he's on my team now." :lol

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FHt-Ntukic

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeyZq1rpwtM

[Pauleta14]

Can we start addressing the elephant in the room?

Paul is starting to be a liability at the end of games, he doesn't have the legs to stay on his guy and ends up having to foul too often bc of it.

He's been more than useful to compensate the absence of vets in this roster, but if he stays, he'll slow down Stephon's development and prevent the team to have a high pace style.

I'm not sure if he's capable of being satisfied being a 20' backup PG and think it's better if we stop the experience after this season.

[MannyIsGod]

I don't think he's slowing down anyone's development, but if the Spurs want to field the best lineup possible and actually try to make the play in then they better move CP to the bench.

[objective]

If Paul doesn't want to be on the bench, he won't be. I expect if Mitch brought it up to him he would get stared down until he apologized.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

who cares who starts, it's all about rotations, lineups an minutes

fucking duh.

[mystargtr34]

Someone mentioned it in the game thread, if part of Spurs agreement with CP3 signing here was a full time starter role all season, they can’t really go back on that because word gets around that they lie to FA’s.

I’m not sure the Spurs promised that as it seems quite desperate if they did, but who knows.

[goliath]

I doubt it was a promise but I’m sure everyone knew he signed here because he would be the starter. However things unexpectedly changed this week. I doubt any free agent would hold it against the spurs if cp was moved to the bench bc Fox fell into our laps

[Robz4000]

I don't think he's slowing down anyone's development, but if the Spurs want to field the best lineup possible and actually try to make the play in then they better move CP to the bench.

Might be best for everyone if they waive him tbh.

[Bruno]

It's not healthy for the team to have Paul stating alongside Fox just because he was signed to be a starter. If he isn't fine with being on the bench, he should be waived and sign elsewhere for the rest of the season.
It's also not healthy to have Pop calling a player like Paul after games. He should either be back or not interfere at all with the coaching staff.

Spurs have a lot of other issues but these ones are easily fixable. Spurs need to clean it up.

[spursparker9]

:lol We all know Mitch wouldn't dare to bench CP3's old ass.

I am also very surprised that how the fuck CP3 managed to stay healthy the whole season thus far :lol. He has not made a single game due to injury yet. This is insane given his history lol

[Pauleta14]

Starting isn't the issue, if it's symbolically important for Paul, it's fine, but he shouldn't play that much and not finish all the time just because he's CP3

Anyways it should be his last season I'd like to hope

[RC_Drunkford]

Him being promised a starter role shouldn't even be a problem. All you need is to have a real conversation with him that it's better for the team if he comes off the bench cause we are trying to win. Even if Mitch is so keen on him starting, sub him out for Castle after the first 3 minutes and play the proper rotation from then on. The coaching staff obviously doesn't have the guts to do that.

[Ice009]

If he did have an agreement to start, that is fine, but surely he now knows the situation has changed. The Spurs have traded for Fox and Castle has shown a lot of potential. If I were the coach, I'd say, we either start Fox or you, and then tell him, at this stage of his career, Fox is the better player. Let's just try it for a few games and see what happens. If CP3 is not down with that, then he's more selfish that I thought. Having said that, I appreciate everything he's done for the team and wouldn't have any problem with him still starting if the Spurs didn't get the Fox trade. I don't know, tough situation. Kind reminds me of Allen Iverson not wanting to play off the bench at the end of his career. AI was one of my favourite players and I felt he could have really helped some teams out if he was willing to take a reserve role and excel in it. I guess it's tough for a former star player to accept that.

[cd98]

The rush to blame for a bad loss is absurd. Paul is a great playmaker and the offense has looked world’s better than last year’s chaos. He established order. He’s also a good off ball shooter. He’s a plus when he plays even if he isn’t the elite defender he used to be, he gets to his spots and has his moments. Youth loses games way more than experience. Castle had a great game, but in crunch time he missed a key free throw and threw a horrible pass to Wemby that resulted in a turnover. I’m not saying bench Castle, but I am saying Paul doesn’t do that stuff in these close games.

[Pauleta14]

If he did have an agreement to start, that is fine, but surely he now knows the situation has changed. The Spurs have traded for Fox and Castle has shown a lot of potential. If I were the coach, I'd say, we either start Fox or you, and then tell him, at this stage of his career, Fox is the better player. Let's just try it for a few games and see what happens. If CP3 is not down with that, then he's more selfish that I thought. Having said that, I appreciate everything he's done for the team and wouldn't have any problem with him still starting if the Spurs didn't get the Fox trade. I don't know, tough situation. Kind reminds me of Allen Iverson not wanting to play off the bench at the end of his career. AI was one of my favourite players and I felt he could have really helped some teams out if he was willing to take a reserve role and excel in it. I guess it's tough for a former star player to accept that.

I agree with your logic but the reality a bit different, what you call selfish is also seen as uber competitive. Also Mitch is clearly a fanboy, he not only grew up watching him playing at the same position but he's younger and probably impressible vs Paul.

More than the strategy/rotation etc a manager's job is at least 50% human management, charisma, psychology etc Mitch is way too young as a man and inexperienced as a coach to even be able to have Paul listening to him. Doesn't mean CP3 doesn't respect him but he's probably looking at him the same way we'd be looking at our little brother telling us what to do.

Having a proper coach is paramount of all the issues of this team. It always comes from the top 1st

[Pauleta14]

The rush to blame for a bad loss is absurd. Paul is a great playmaker and the offense has looked world’s better than last year’s chaos. He established order. He’s also a good off ball shooter. He’s a plus when he plays even if he isn’t the elite defender he used to be, he gets to his spots and has his moments. Youth loses games way more than experience. Castle had a great game, but in crunch time he missed a key free throw and threw a horrible pass to Wemby that resulted in a turnover. I’m not saying bench Castle, but I am saying Paul doesn’t do that stuff in these close games.

Not blaming him for the loss at all nor hating on him, he's been a massive addition and wish we had him last season already.

We can't deny the trend tho nor his age and the effect it has on his legs and abilities to move the way he should. It's not gonna get better so why envision a collaboration beyond this season?

[Gagnrath]

Can we start addressing the elephant in the room?

Paul is starting to be a liability at the end of games, he doesn't have the legs to stay on his guy and ends up having to foul too often bc of it.

He's been more than useful to compensate the absence of vets in this roster, but if he stays, he'll slow down Stephon's development and prevent the team to have a high pace style.

I'm not sure if he's capable of being satisfied being a 20' backup PG and think it's better if we stop the experience after this season.


A lot depends on Chris and I also think he is smart enough to realize that he's not able to really compete at the end of games on a regular basis anymore. The question becomes is he humble and confident enough in himself to admit it to himself. Do I think he could take a useful bench role here or elsewhere for a year or two in the future? Yes I do. Do I know if he likes the game and being an elder stateman player enough with his financial wherewithal to put up with the travel, the effort and all of that for near min salary? I don't know.

If he wants it and is willing to be a bench guy with the understanding that there are two ball handling guards ahead of him on the roster and that he's there for spot minutes, coaching and practice then sure keep him if not then you hold CP3 career montage at a home game near the end of the season in all the different uniforms he's worn through-out his career.

It's a business with adults and Paul is as aware of that as anyone. You manage ego's and legacies you also might offer him a SJax are you able to stay in front of Castle and Fox moment.

[Pauleta14]

A lot depends on Chris and I also think he is smart enough to realize that he's not able to really compete at the end of games on a regular basis anymore. The question becomes is he humble and confident enough in himself to admit it to himself. Do I think he could take a useful bench role here or elsewhere for a year or two in the future? Yes I do. Do I know if he likes the game and being an elder stateman player enough with his financial wherewithal to put up with the travel, the effort and all of that for near min salary? I don't know.

If he wants it and is willing to be a bench guy with the understanding that there are two ball handling guards ahead of him on the roster and that he's there for spot minutes, coaching and practice then sure keep him if not then you hold CP3 career montage at a home game near the end of the season in all the different uniforms he's worn through-out his career.

It's a business with adults and Paul is as aware of that as anyone. You manage ego's and legacies you also might offer him a SJax are you able to stay in front of Castle and Fox moment.

I'm not even sure it's a matter of being humble or not, these guys are competitive animals that lived being "the guy" for decades. It reminds me TP who chose to leave to start for a shitty CHA team rather than being the back-up of DJ but finish hiw career with the same franchise.

Cp didn't come to SA to iive the "Wemby experience" or "get to be coached by the goat" blabla, he came bc it's the only team that offered him a starting position or even a big role. There isn't one team in the league that could have used him like the Spurs bc of the insane lack of vets Wemby had to deal with and the ridiculously low IQ of this singular roster.

As u said it's a business and sometimes you have to take cold-hearted decisions like with TP in the past, CP doesn't even have that history to get even more privileges that TP ever had.

[Gagnrath]

I'm not even sure it's a matter of being humble or not, these guys are competitive animals that lived being "the guy" for decades. It reminds me TP who chose to leave to start for a shitty CHA team rather than being the back-up of DJ but finish hiw career with the same franchise.

Cp didn't come to SA to iive the "Wemby experience" or "get to be coached by the goat" blabla, he came bc it's the only team that offered him a starting position or even a big role. There isn't one team in the league that could have used him like the Spurs bc of the insane lack of vets Wemby had to deal with and the ridiculously low IQ of this singular roster.

As u said it's a business and sometimes you have to take cold-hearted decisions like with TP in the past, CP doesn't even have that history to get even more privileges that TP ever had.

Some guys have the ability and self realization to know they aren't physically where they were before. Some competitive people are SJax some are Kevin Willis. Paul isn't going to be taking any records from Willis but he also can if he chooses be an elder statesman and playing coach. Honestly I thought that might be what Pop was thinking at the start of the year when CP3 was signed and be going aiming at that going forward.

[vy65]

I do think he needs to move to the bench but, let’s take a minute to appreciate the fact that for the first time in god knows how many years, we have this problem. The last time I remember it was with SJax round 2 and Kawhi.