2024 Training Camp/Preseason News Thread

[spurraider21]

1839741438348628045

[scott]

So possibly 5-8 games missed to start the season for Devin... bummer.

[Ice009]

What was the injury? And should it have healed by now?

[spurraider21]

it was the injury that ended his season last year. supposedly they thought it would get better without surgery but then after a while they realized no he needs surgery and so the timeline got set back

really hope its not a case of him pulling a pippen

[dn0774]

Damn, I thought Vassell, Keldon and Sochan injuries late last season were for tanking purposes (didn't work lol). Sucks that Vassell is actually nicked up for real. Hope it doesn't slow him too much to start the season. I'm expecting a starting lineup of CP3/Champ/HB/Sochan/Wemby til Vassell is back, doubt Castle can sneak in as I expect Pop wants to match him with opposing teams bench, especially early on.

[dn0774]

it was the injury that ended his season last year. supposedly they thought it would get better without surgery but then after a while they realized no he needs surgery and so the timeline got set back

really hope its not a case of him pulling a pippen

Do you know if he got a procedure done or is it expected to happen in the coming days?

Edit: Reading another article it sounds like the surgery happened

[Seventyniner]

Sucks that Vassell is hurt, I didn't realize it was that serious of an injury. Makes it even more likely that Castle will be starting.

[Leetonidas]

Vassell is dealing with an injury, what else is new

[LeBowen]

So it begins...commence the #capturetheflagg2025 operation with unprecedented levels of load management and questionable injuries.

Will be interesting to see who gets Devin's starting spot.
It's between Champagnie and Branham. Unless Pop goes for another full tank mode decision and starts both Jeremy and Castle to completely ruin the spacing.

[heyheymymy]

#capturetheflagg2025

A+

[heyheymymy]

Yeah just wondering about who replaces Dev in the starting 5

Initial hunch is that this is where Branham gets thrown into the fire for better or worse

Champ does have the starting experience though and I like his size at the 2

[dn0774]

So it begins...commence the #capturetheflagg2025 operation with unprecedented levels of load management and questionable injuries.


Yep, stubbed toe = out for 3 months type stuff. I wonder how CP3 will deal if it becomes too blatant that the tank is in full effect, he is a Giannis-like maniac when it comes to competition. I'm guessing that's where the speculated Feb trade would come into play.

[spurraider21]

Yeah just wondering about who replaces Dev in the starting 5

Initial hunch is that this is where Branham gets thrown into the fire for better or worse

Champ does have the starting experience though and I like his size at the 2
i would think champagnie would be next up at the 2, with Branham backing him up and Keldon behind Barnes. branham can handle the ball better than champagnie but thats a less useful skill alongside cp3

[heyheymymy]

i would think champagnie would be next up at the 2, with Branham backing him up and Keldon behind Barnes. branham can handle the ball better than champagnie but thats a less useful skill alongside cp3

You're right, this has got to be it.

Great points, the balance is best this way and I overlooked how the little ball handing Bran does would be redundant next to CP3.

[baseline bum]

Blech at the thought of Branham in the rotation again

[ace3g]

https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/461389626_1067729488058190_8568137944946609855_n.j pg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=IV2Vq_OyIPcQ7kNvgH_98i5&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&_nc_gid=AFcfAEF-JCyGsZ5CPa07lbz&oh=00_AYAYQozHDZT5Wq7ivoAiwy8JT1CI_oNUag1zvhe2WHq4 hQ&oe=66FD00FC

[Spurs Brazil]

The Spurs have provided no timetable for Vassell’s return, though there is optimism he might be able to play in games by the first week of November, a league source said.

https://www.expressnews.com/sports/spurs/article/san-antonio-spurs-devin-vassell-expected-miss-19797883.php

[Dejounte]

We will get to see early who is the odd men out from the most glutted position on the roster, so this is a blessing in disguise. That, or someone’s trade value goes up as they’ll be able to showcase them more.

[spurraider21]

The Spurs have provided no timetable for Vassell’s return, though there is optimism he might be able to play in games by the first week of November, a league source said.

https://www.expressnews.com/sports/spurs/article/san-antonio-spurs-devin-vassell-expected-miss-19797883.php
why would a "league" source have information about the recovery time of a specific player. would have to be somebody within the org

[spurraider21]

is my memory off or do i recall the open scrimmage having been held before any preseason games last year

[Chinook]

is my memory off or do i recall the open scrimmage having been held before any preseason games last year

I think it's off. It's usually before any preseason game. Last year it was either after all of them or after most of them.

[Chinook]

Seems like Castle should get the spot.

Paul, Castle, Champagnie, Sochan, Wembanyama
Jones, Branham, Johnson, Barnes, Collins
Wesley, Boston, Cissoko, Mamukelashivili, Bassey
Duke, Flynn, Minix, Ingram, Mensah

That's still a pretty balanced roster for scrimmage purposes.

[J_Paco]

Seems like Castle should get the spot.

Paul, Castle, Champagnie, Sochan, Wembanyama
Jones, Branham, Johnson, Barnes, Collins
Wesley, Boston, Cissoko, Mamukelashivili, Bassey
Duke, Flynn, Minix, Ingram, Mensah

That's still a pretty balanced roster for scrimmage purposes.

That'll be interesting if Champagnie remains in the starting line up long-term. Everyone was so sure - myself included - that he'd be supplanted by Barnes (or my hope, Castle), but seems Pop values his size and outside shooting.

It sucks donkey dick that Devin is out to start the season, yet this is an opportunity for one of Castle, Branham or Wesley to show & prove. Crossing my fingers that 2 of the 3 if not all three show out while Vassell is out.

[Dex]

Vassell is dealing with an injury, what else is new

I lol'd, but this is getting borderline concerning considering he is supposed to be our 2nd option going forward and his health history isn't...great

[spurraider21]

I think it's off. It's usually before any preseason game. Last year it was either after all of them or after most of them.
just checked and i think my memory was correct

last year our first preseason game was against OKC and that didnt take place until October 9, whereas the scrimmage game was held October 7

i remember that being the first time we saw wemby on the floor with the big league team

[rankingtear]

Branham is the closest thing to what Devin does.

[timtonymanu]

Devin being injury prone like Manu while having played less competitive games overall. Boo.

I seriously hope Branham has a bounce back season. Otherwise cut that scrub if he shows nothing.

[Limguogolo]

Vassell will start the season off on the right foot. (Sorry, I'm that kind of guy.)

[scott]

Vassell saw how badly some of us wanted Markkanen and decided to prove he can do everything Lauri can do - including miss large chunks of games every season of his career.

[Ocotillo]

1839741438348628045

Devin Glassell :bang

[Mr. Body]

Conundrum. My guess is Champagnie starts. Move him up a position and slot Harrison Barnes as the 3/4 since he was already starting.

[paperboy77]

This is the norm with DV. They need to do what I'm always saying which is to recognize the player is not "it" and find a way to get the most in a trade. This guy is good but reliably unreliable.

[widowmaker]

Dude is always injured and that is why I consider him unreliable.

[Spurs Homer]

Never doubted vassell was a china doll and have been saying this forever and also hoped he would be traded...

post after post after post saying "sochan plus keldon plus -insert name - but NOT VASSELL!" made me chuckle all off season.

[SayTown]

So Devin had a stress reaction in the third metatarsal of his foot and had off-season surgery, hope he recovers well. I remember James Anderson was looking good in pre season and decent in the first few games and the same thing happened to one of his metatarsals and he was not even close to being same afterwards at least physically.

[exstatic]

So Devin had a stress reaction in the third metatarsal of his foot and had off-season surgery, hope he recovers well. I remember James Anderson was looking good in pre season and decent in the first few games and the same thing happened to one of his metatarsals and he was not even close to being same afterwards at least physically.

He had the dreaded fifth metatarsal, which had ended more than a few careers.

[jeebus]

Blech at the thought of Branham in the rotation again

Luckily I think he and Wesley are the odd faggots out. Only reason they're still on the team is because they're cheap as fuck and are there for injury insurance. Fixing this shitty bench should be priority numero uno next summer because Tre, Keldon, Shampenny/Sidy, Zollins/Bassey/Mamu is laughably bad.

[baseline bum]

Branham is the closest thing to what Devin does.

Branham is the closest thing to what Alfredrick Hughes did

[Bruno]

Spurs' FO choices to make during the training camp are:
- There are 5 players with Ingram, Duke Jr., Mensah, Boston Jr. and Minix for 3 two-way roster spots.
- Flynn isn't eligible to a two-way contract. If Spurs want to keep him, they will need to waive a player with a guaranteed contract like Wesley or Cissoko.
- Spurs have until the end of october to pick 2025-2026 options on Wembanyama, Sochan, Branham and Wesley.

To me, Ingram is the only player of the end of the roster that is slightly intriguing. There is a path for him to become a good NBA role player in a Jae Crowder mold. Picking up Wembanyama and Sochan options is a no brainer. For Branham and Wesley, a key factor is whether or not Spurs want to have cap space next summer to go after free agents.

[rankingtear]

Spurs' FO choices to make during the training camp are:
- There are 4 players with Ingram, Duke Jr., Mensah and Minix for 3 two-way roster spots.
- Flynn and Boston Jr. aren't eligible to a two-way contract. If Spurs want to keep them, they will need to waive a player with a guaranteed contract like Wesley and/or Cissoko.
- Spurs have until the end of october to pick 2025-2026 options on Wembanyama, Sochan, Branham and Wesley.

To me, Ingram is the only player of the end of the roster that is slightly intriguing. There is a path for him to become a good NBA role player in a Jae Crowder mold. Picking up Wembanyama and Sochan options is a no brainer. For Branham and Wesley, a key factor is whether or not Spurs want to have cap space next summer to go after free agents.

Boston is from 2021 class he 2-way eligible.

[Bruno]

Boston is from 2021 class he 2-way eligible.

Yep, you're right.

[CGD]

Spurs' FO choices to make during the training camp are:
- There are 5 players with Ingram, Duke Jr., Mensah, Boston Jr. and Minix for 3 two-way roster spots.
- Flynn isn't eligible to a two-way contract. If Spurs want to keep him, they will need to waive a player with a guaranteed contract like Wesley or Cissoko.
- Spurs have until the end of october to pick 2025-2026 options on Wembanyama, Sochan, Branham and Wesley.

To me, Ingram is the only player of the end of the roster that is slightly intriguing. There is a path for him to become a good NBA role player in a Jae Crowder mold. Picking up Wembanyama and Sochan options is a no brainer. For Branham and Wesley, a key factor is whether or not Spurs want to have cap space next summer to go after free agents.

The Branham/Wesley decisions will be interesting considering they could have 3 picks next summer.

[exstatic]

The Branham/Wesley decisions will be interesting considering they could have 3 picks next summer.

Very unlikely to have 3 picks, and not sure they’ll need roster spots. Sidy is almost certainly gone, probably Mamu since he was only offered a one year contract, and Tre Jones is expiring. That’s just off the top of my head. It’s very rare for the Spurs to not pick up year 4 on a first round contract, unless there is some sort of behavioral issue, like Primo’s display penchant or Samanic’s outright laziness.

[Bruno]

BTW, the salary cap situation for Spurs next summer will be the following:

Salary cap will be at $154.6M
Spurs will have 7 player under guaranteed contract (Vassell, Barnes, Collins, Johnson, Wembanyama, Castle and Sochan) for a total of $111.6M
Right now, the most likely draft scenario is Spurs getting #9 and #10 which will add a $12.3M cap hold.
3 incomplete roster charge will need to be added of $1.3M each.

Spurs total team salary will be $127.8M which result in $26.8M in capspace.

If Spurs keep Champagnie, it will lower the cap space by $1.7M.
If Spurs pick Branham option, it will lower the cap space by $3.6M.
If Spurs pick Wesley option, it will lower the cap space by $3.4M

[exstatic]

BTW, the salary cap situation for Spurs next summer will be the following:

Salary cap will be at $154.6M
Spurs will have 7 player under guaranteed contract (Vassell, Barnes, Collins, Johnson, Wembanyama, Castle and Sochan) for a total of $111.6M
Right now, the most likely draft scenario is Spurs getting #9 and #10 which will add a $12.3M cap hold.
3 incomplete roster charge will need to be added of $1.3M each.

Spurs total team salary will be $127.8M which result in $26.8M in capspace.

If Spurs keep Champagnie, it will lower the cap space by $1.7M.
If Spurs pick Branham option, it will lower the cap space by $3.6M.
If Spurs pick Wesley option, it will lower the cap space by $3.4M

26.8 ain’t much in today’s nba. It’s not going to lure a star, even a minor one.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/spurs/status/1840436380645888384

[Bruno]

26.8 ain’t much in today’s nba. It’s not going to lure a star, even a minor one.

I half agree with you.
2025 FA will be weird. Only 4 teams (Wizards, Nets, Spurs and Rockets) are projected to have cap space. Wizard and Nets should still tank in 2026 for Dybantsa/Boozer. Rockets cap space will depend on what they do with Sengun and Jalen Green. Bottom line is that there will have very little money available for FA next summer.

$26.8M isn't a lot in today's nba but it will be in the 2025 FA market.

[LeBowen]

Cap space won't be an issue if we're in for an all-star.
Collins will be on expiring $19M next summer. Barnes on $18M.
Keldon with two years left, $17M per year.

[ttdog]

Media day live streaming now!
https://www.youtube.com/live/lSOnEzeWQPs

[Limguogolo]

NBA.com wraps up its daily team analysis by finishing with the Spurs.
(Note that every time a player signs in Europe, the NBA considers him an "Unsigned free agent". Cedi Osman is Panathinaikos player now.)

https://www.nba.com/news/2024-25-season-preview-sas

[Dejounte]

Popovich is still high on Cissoko apparently

[Dejounte]

Keldon sounds different, it’s weird. Like, he lost all the gruff in his voice.

[Limguogolo]

He reminds him of Boris (who was late in developing a three-point shot). Possible that Pop tries to make him a point forward. Sidy has always preferred to dish assists (like the good Frenchman that he is).

[Dejounte]

Harrison Barnes is high on Blake, says he has done a lot in two weeks

[rankingtear]

1840755864719814695

This is the first time in a while we get updated weights.

Notable is Branham and Wemby at +25.

[Dejounte]

Wemby: “last year we expected us to grow. This year we expect us to win.”

[Mr. Body]

Popovich is still high on Cissoko apparently

Cissoko has a lot of plusses. He's big and strong, moves really fast, has a good sense of the game insofar as passing and such, can be a good defender. If he figures out an offensive punch, he can be really solid. But...

[widowmaker]

Here we go with the condescending answers.

[John B]

Harrison Barnes is high on Blake, says he has done a lot in two weeks

I’m rooting for Wesley because of his dawg mentality. Branham’s “nonchalant” tendencies is frustrating on the other hand. It’s a shame since Branham has the more natural gifts

[exstatic]

Sidy makes Sochan look like Curry. He shot 8% in SA, and 29% in Austin.

[Pauleta14]

Wemby: “last year we expected us to grow. This year we expect us to win.”

He sounds like Pop... a year ago! :lol

[Mugen]

Castle should start at the 2 while Devin is out tbh. Who gives a shit about spacing.

[Pauleta14]

Sidy makes Sochan look like Curry. He shot 8% in SA, and 29% in Austin.

On the shooting aspect maybe (not sure really)

But on the passing aspect, Jeremy makes Sidy look like Magic

[BackHome]

Castle should start at the 2 while Devin is out tbh. Who gives a shit about spacing.

That what I was thinking he should probably get 15 to 20 minutes at SG and 5 to 10 minutes at PG.

[scott]

Any word from Pop on whether winning is important this year? Or does it only matter to Wemby?

[jjspur]

If Sidy, Branham or Wesley get out played in practice or preseason by some of the new invites, its probably time to let them go. My guess is that Sidy is the one to get cut. Just let them duke it out, and whomever is the last man standing gets the valuable 15th spot. This team needs to start showing something more for all the "development" its been doing the last few years- and I'm not talking about Wemby.

[Spurs Brazil]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sB5fUL-WCE


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD-TMYZnH-Y


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HcSHeHA8zg

[Spurs Brazil]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28_qUo8oUGc


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


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsjjfqVEMP4

[Spurs Brazil]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqV6-YRVrK8

[spurraider21]

Bassey was listed as 6'11 last year and now down to 6'10 this year :lol

wesley also down to 6'3 from 6'4

[John B]

Castle should start at the 2 while Devin is out tbh. Who gives a shit about spacing.

Castle will be player suited to play 3 and Barnes at 4. Sochan at 4 is too small.

[tonight...you]

Bassey was listed as 6'11 last year and now down to 6'10 this year :lol

wesley also down to 6'3 from 6'4
Osteoporosis is real.

[Dejounte]

Castle will be player suited to play 3 and Barnes at 4. Sochan at 4 is too small.
Spurstalk where posters often miscategorize players and their positions. Castle will barely play the 3.

[scott]

Spurstalk where posters often miscategorize players and their positions. Castle will barely play the 3.

2023 was John B’s year to make everyone a PG. Maybe 2024 is the year of the SF.

[spurraider21]

Spurstalk where posters often miscategorize players and their positions. Castle will barely play the 3.
If Michael Finley can be a stretch 4 so can Castle

[John B]

2023 was John B’s year to make everyone a PG. Maybe 2024 is the year of the SF.

:lol:lol It was a reply to the suggestion that Castle should play the 2 on Vassell’s absence. I said Castle is better suited to play SF, maybe combo like Demar to initiate offense at times.

I was hoping Castle would start and get a chance at ROY. But I think Sheppard will be tough to beat. I could see Sheppard scoring 30-40 pts when he gets real hot. ESPN loves that.

[playbonner15]

He sounds like Pop... a year ago! :lol
:lol So yeah they're gonna be competitve in the first to middle games of the season then tank to the end lol

[Pauleta14]

:lol So yeah they're gonna be competitve in the first to middle games of the season then tank to the end lol

I don't trust a word coming from PATFO

However, it's interesting to see Vic and Devin being quite ferm in telling the goal is the POs

My guess is PATFO don't share their strategy with the players, CIA style

[John B]

I don't trust a word coming from PATFO

However, it's interesting to see Vic and Devin being quite ferm in telling the goal is the POs

My guess is PATFO don't share their strategy with the players, CIA style

May not be to all players, but for sure to your franchise player Wemby, veteran CP3, maybe Vassell and Keldon. Still, players are prepped what to say to the media, what fans want to hear and the league.

I expect the Spurs to try to be competitive but still bring in the young players a lot of runs to develop, and see who will stick. They have tons of picks the following years. Some players will have to go. It’s going to be a grueling process for the players if they’re still going to be in black and grey jersey for long.

[exstatic]

I don't trust a word coming from PATFO

However, it's interesting to see Vic and Devin being quite ferm in telling the goal is the POs

My guess is PATFO don't share their strategy with the players, CIA style

There’s no possible way they can tank this year. To even get into the bottom 8 or so teams, you’d have to tank out of the gate. They finished 6-2 last year with Devin, Keldon,and Sochan on the shelf, and the last quarter of the season, they were 10-12. If the plan was to tank, they never would have signed CP3, although it could be argued that they might have done the a Barnes trade for the swap, anyway. Nothing they’ve done this offseason says tank.

[rjv]

There’s no possible way they can tank this year. To even get into the bottom 8 or so teams, you’d have to tank out of the gate. They finished 6-2 last year with Devin, Keldon,and Sochan on the shelf, and the last quarter of the season, they were 10-12. If the plan was to tank, they never would have signed CP3, although it could be argued that they might have done the a Barnes trade for the swap, anyway. Nothing they’ve done this offseason says tank.

yeah, i really don't know where this tank narrative is coming from. posters just making up their own crap and throwing it at the wall, i guess.

[NASpurs]

There’s no possible way they can tank this year. To even get into the bottom 8 or so teams, you’d have to tank out of the gate. They finished 6-2 last year with Devin, Keldon,and Sochan on the shelf, and the last quarter of the season, they were 10-12. If the plan was to tank, they never would have signed CP3, although it could be argued that they might have done the a Barnes trade for the swap, anyway. Nothing they’ve done this offseason says tank.

Why does it seem like you've said this before and they ended up tanking.

[z0sa]

I see another season of Pop not doing so hot on the sidelines and people around the league calling it another 'soft tank.' Especially guys like Magic who basically guaranteed Wemby would be in the playin this season.

[Mugen]

Why does it seem like you've said this before and they ended up tanking.

:lol tbh

[exstatic]

Why does it seem like you've said this before and they ended up tanking.

I’ve said it without attribution. There are pretty clear signs this year, though.

[Bruno]

These preseason talks doesn't hype me at all.

To put it bluntly, last season Spurs were Wemby, an injury prone Vassell and nothing else good. Tre Jones was Spurs' third best player. To have a limited role player like him as your third best player highlights how weak Spurs were. On a good team, a player like Tre is about the 8th best player.

For this season, I don't care at all Spurs wining 35 or 40 games if it's because Paul and Barnes have been very good. The only thing that matter to me is the level of 5 players: Wemby, Vassell, Castle, Sochan and Johnson. These player might potentially become building blocks of a good team. The rest of the roster is composed of players that are too old, too limited or marginal prospects

[Dejounte]

These preseason talks doesn't hype me at all.

To put it bluntly, last season Spurs were Wemby, an injury prone Vassell and nothing else good. Tre Jones was Spurs' third best player. To have a limited role player like him as your third best player highlights how weak Spurs were. On a good team, a player like Tre is about the 8th best player.

For this season, I don't care at all Spurs wining 35 or 40 games if it's because Paul and Barnes have been very good. The only thing that matter to me is the level of 5 players: Wemby, Vassell, Castle, Sochan and Johnson. These player might potentially become building blocks of a good team. The rest of the roster is composed of players that are too old, too limited or marginal prospects

There’s this myth among fans who think that a team having prospects from 1 to 15 is a normal thing around the league. It isn’t. Only team you can probably say that is the Thunder, but maybe not even then. After the top five players, those guys typically don’t have high ceilings. This isn’t NBA 2K, I’m sorry.

[Dejounte]

The Rockets? Let’s name their top 5 (after their first two vets, Dillon and FVV, since that’s what you did for the Spurs): Reed, Jalen Green, Jalen Smith, Sengun, Amen

who are the guys after those five? Cam Whitmore? Who looked like a selfish scrub summer league. Tari? Flash in a pan guy who is losing steam with Rockets fans…

that’s it. That’s the list. And that’s a team with a lot of young guys. There aren’t a lot of teams like the Rockets.

[CGD]

^ Im very eager to see what Jeremy does this season. I think he and Keldon are on a path to be duplicative on the roster long term, so it will be interesting to see how they handle. That and Keldon's deal looks like great trade bait.

I found it interesting that Pop has been trying to get HB to the spurs since the last Olympics. He'll be here a while, meanwhile I think CP3 is here for a cup of coffee.

Im irrationally pumped for Castle.

[CGD]

The Rockets? Let’s name their top 5 (after their first two vets, Dillon and FVV, since that’s what you did for the Spurs): Reed, Jalen Green, Jalen Smith, Sengun, Amen

who are the guys after those five? Cam Whitmore? Who looked like a selfish scrub summer league. Tari? Flash in a pan guy who is losing steam with Rockets fans…

that’s it. That’s the list. And that’s a team with a lot of young guys. There aren’t a lot of teams like the Rockets.

You've omitted Jabari Smith Jr., which is s sign of how much young talent they have over there. That guy is simply buried on that team, which has to be frustrating to him.

I'd love to get him on the Spurs. He'd be the PERFECT 4 next to Wemby.

[Limguogolo]

It's not science, it's sport. No one is ever safe from seeing one of these prospects significantly improve an area of ​​his game and sure values ​​do not put one foot in front of the other.

If the Spurs have what it takes to develop their roster in the future, it's good to put pressure on these prospects, but it's natural to have confidence in them. Because we are always surprised. This is the Spurs. Who was waiting for Parker and Ginobili? No one. It happens. The role of a coach is also to listen to these opportunities. Pop proved he knew what he was doing. If these opportunities come true, it will give these players the opportunity to stand out, this time with the pressure of results.

Last year Pop was exploring and asking players to "be themselves" like he always asked, this year it's a safe bet he's asking them to "be themselves, but to do everything to win.” That's what veterans are for. Not to be competitive immediately, but to seek to understand what it means to seek to win. You don't learn that when you lose by 20 points in every game. And as in major events, it is in these moments that great personalities are revealed. By definition, it's not until the season that Pop will be able to find out.

The NBA is about lotteries. Choosing good picks is not enough. You also have to have a lot of luck and see prospects reveal themselves where you didn't expect them. Because there will also be as many or even more disappointments. And in a small market, find these players who reveal themselves, often great role players (a la Bowen/Diaw) is essential. Small contracts that raise pretty banners to the ceiling.

[scott]

I'm excited for the season. Either certain guys show marked improvement with CP3 and Barnes adding a veteran presence, or they don't at which point the front office should be looking to move them out. Lots of questions should be immediately answered.

[Atl Spur]

It just takes time to assess talent/fit properly; I trust the FO decisions be it cutting the cord or giving more rope to some players. However I will say, there are a lot of redundancy on our current roster and fat will be trimmed.

[Mugen]

These preseason talks doesn't hype me at all.

To put it bluntly, last season Spurs were Wemby, an injury prone Vassell and nothing else good. Tre Jones was Spurs' third best player. To have a limited role player like him as your third best player highlights how weak Spurs were. On a good team, a player like Tre is about the 8th best player.

For this season, I don't care at all Spurs wining 35 or 40 games if it's because Paul and Barnes have been very good. The only thing that matter to me is the level of 5 players: Wemby, Vassell, Castle, Sochan and Johnson. These player might potentially become building blocks of a good team. The rest of the roster is composed of players that are too old, too limited or marginal prospects

You can remove Keldon from the equation tbh. He's firmly in the Tre Jones tier.

As long Vic continues his trajectory and two out of Castle/Vassell/Sochan show that they're above average players, I'd consider that a pretty massive W for the season.

Jeremy in particular is due for a very telling season. Zero excuse for him to not break out IMO unless he's just not that good which could very well be the case.

[Bruno]

There’s this myth among fans who think that a team having prospects from 1 to 15 is a normal thing around the league.

That's not what I'm saying.
What I'm saying is:
Spurs have right now only 2 players to build around with Wembanyama and Vassell.
What is the really important this year is to have 1 or 2 more players in that category at the end of the season.
Castle, Sochan and Johnson are the most likely candidates to do that.

[Dejounte]

You've omitted Jabari Smith Jr., which is s sign of how much young talent they have over there. That guy is simply buried on that team, which has to be frustrating to him.

I'd love to get him on the Spurs. He'd be the PERFECT 4 next to Wemby.

I didn’t omit him. I just said his name wrong. There isn’t any Jalen Smith on that team, Jabari is what I meant. Haha

[Mr. Body]

Barnes' comments on Wesley really pop out to me. I would think his pathway to success was rather narrow, at least sticking with his current team. But his pathway was becoming a pesky defender. I know people were poor on him last year, but he really cleaned up his biggest problem. He no longer was driving into trees and getting swatted. His finishing still wasn't great, but he clearly was using the floor better.

One of the biggest problems with this board is a lack of patience. I'm not sure how many players the Spurs have to develop over multiple years before fans learn how to be patient and wait. Statements like "There are only two good players on this team" are really silly and run against what we've seen happen multiple times.

With Pop's continued comments on Cissoko and the shedding of even the idea of a player like Dillingham, it seems clear the team is going first for a defensive identity. I think that's going to annoy some people, but in the end will be the foundation that gets us forward.

[LeBowen]

Barnes' comments on Wesley really pop out to me. I would think his pathway to success was rather narrow, at least sticking with his current team. But his pathway was becoming a pesky defender. I know people were poor on him last year, but he really cleaned up his biggest problem. He no longer was driving into trees and getting swatted. His finishing still wasn't great, but he clearly was using the floor better.

One of the biggest problems with this board is a lack of patience. I'm not sure how many players the Spurs have to develop over multiple years before fans learn how to be patient and wait. Statements like "There are only two good players on this team" are really silly and run against what we've seen happen multiple times.

With Pop's continued comments on Cissoko and the shedding of even the idea of a player like Dillingham, it seems clear the team is going first for a defensive identity. I think that's going to annoy some people, but in the end will be the foundation that gets us forward.

Defensive identity is the right way to go, but in 2024 we can't really afford to have complete non-factors on offense.
We just drafted a player who's obviously a better version of Wesley, but even he's limited offensively.
Since we got CP3 and Tre is still here, how can we incorporate Wesley and his non-existant range into any kind of sensible lineup?

He just needs too many variables to go his way to succeed here and odds of that happening aren't high.
Same goes for Cissoko. He can get minutes when Jeremy isn't on the floor, but we need better spacing and he's got three guaranteed rotation members ahead of him and Champagnie/Mamu fighting for remaining minutes.

The problem is that we have way too many players to develop and not all of them will be able to reach their maximum potential.
Castle, Branham, Wesley, Jeremy, Cissoko are all a long way from where they need to be and it's not like Tre/Devin are finished products, either.

Wesley's best chance will be the start of the season while Devin is out. If he doesn't seize the opportunity, he won't get another one until CP3 has some DNP/rest nights.

[exstatic]

You can remove Keldon from the equation tbh. He's firmly in the Tre Jones tier.

As long Vic continues his trajectory and two out of Castle/Vassell/Sochan show that they're above average players, I'd consider that a pretty massive W for the season.

Jeremy in particular is due for a very telling season. Zero excuse for him to not break out IMO unless he's just not that good which could very well be the case.

I think that’s a bit overblown on Keldon. Last time he played with a PG he put up a 17/6/2 line, shooting 40% from 3. That’s not Tre level.

[Sugus]

I didn’t omit him. I just said his name wrong. There isn’t any Jalen Smith on that team, Jabari is what I meant. Haha

That's the Styx still running through your mind! Haha

Your comment made me google him, as I haven't heard anything about him in a hot minute, and..... WTF happened to this guy?? I could not believe the first picture that appeared of him was actually the guy. That neck looks "San Antonio thick" and not in a good way...

His stats don't look too good either, but I haven't really seen him play in Indy. He looked like a nice prospect, and more of a SF-PF type, I'm surprised to see him having played center the last two seasons too.

[Sugus]

The problem is that we have way too many players to develop and not all of them will be able to reach their maximum potential..

Considering the amount of future picks in the Spurs' power, I don't see this as a necessarily bad thing. It's the famous "churn" that rebuilding teams go through; the Thunder also dropped a promising player or two last season due to roster crunch, and will likely do the same in the coming years.

Whoever's worth the minutes should rise above their peers in practices and in making use of their playing time. As they say, "the cream rises to the top". The increased competition over minutes/roster spots could end up being a good thing, even - I remember many posters complaining about Sochan being "handed" the starting spot due to lack of competition, for example, and this would be the opposite.

If Branham or Wesley end up reaching their ceiling on the Pacers or Pistons, I doubt the Spurs will lose much sleep over it... The true keepers tend to show their worth early on in the NBA.

[LeBowen]

Considering the amount of future picks in the Spurs' power, I don't see this as a necessarily bad thing. It's the famous "churn" that rebuilding teams go through; the Thunder also dropped a promising player or two last season due to roster crunch, and will likely do the same in the coming years.

Whoever's worth the minutes should rise above their peers in practices and in making use of their playing time. As they say, "the cream rises to the top". The increased competition over minutes/roster spots could end up being a good thing, even - I remember many posters complaining about Sochan being "handed" the starting spot due to lack of competition, for example, and this would be the opposite.

If Branham or Wesley end up reaching their ceiling on the Pacers or Pistons, I doubt the Spurs will lose much sleep over it... The true keepers tend to show their worth early on in the NBA.

I definitely agree. It's good for the Spurs because odds of someone developing into a quality player obviously rise with quantity.
But it's bad for the players themselves.

Wesley and Branham had two season on a roster that played without any pressure. They showed very little.
If we were still in that phase of rebuild, I'd be fine with them getting a lot of minutes for another season. But at the end of last one, they were nowhere near good enough even for that awful roster.
Castle is the #4 pick, he'll be the priority and imo his development is the most important thing this season after Wemby.

If Castle can get on that Jrue 2.0 trajectory optimistic reports are hoping for, we struck gold.

[Pauleta14]

^ Im very eager to see what Jeremy does this season. I think he and Keldon are on a path to be duplicative on the roster long term, so it will be interesting to see how they handle. That and Keldon's deal looks like great trade bait.

I found it interesting that Pop has been trying to get HB to the spurs since the last Olympics. He'll be here a while, meanwhile I think CP3 is here for a cup of coffee.

Im irrationally pumped for Castle.

Jeremy and Castle's developements are the 2 most important for the future by far (after Vic obviously)

I'm quite pescimistic about Sochan but pray I'm wrong

I'm like you on Castle, almost too much to the point that I feel I'm jinxing him ^^ The position is so important and tough to fill

Edit / Vassel as well but he's already at a decent level, it's more about dev his playmaking skills

[ace3g]

https://x.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1841225190023352339

[ace3g]

https://x.com/ClutchPoints/status/1841238547442921920

[Mr. Body]

Defensive identity is the right way to go, but in 2024 we can't really afford to have complete non-factors on offense.


It looks like we're going to have to afford it. The team looks to much rather have defense-first players and build from there.

It's the right way to go. With Wembyanama, the team could become a fearsome defensive team even in an era such as this. If rules keep sliding toward more defense - and it becomes more defensive in the playoffs - then it's even more incredible an advantage.

At the same time, Wembanyama is going to be a major offensive threat, and the system we run generates points through movement. I feel like this forum obsesses too much on outside shooting when those other fundamentals are more important. Once they get the defensive foundation and are able to run more sophisticated plays, maybe some of the players have become better shooters. If not, we have a lot of assets to build them in.

[The Truth #6]

Why does it seem like you've said this before and they ended up tanking.

But then, like, new evidence had come to light, man. Ha.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://x.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1841225190023352339

Interesting... Probably just training attire (and obviously nothing set in stone) but Wemby flanked with Sochan, Tre J, Castle and Branham in part of that clip

[The Truth #6]

But I think the defensive identity makes sense, especially with Wemby, but also in general. A small market team that doesn't attract free agents has to find a budget path in my opinion. We have to grow talent or get players on the downside, historically.

[dn0774]

Jeremy and Castle's developements are the 2 most important for the future by far (after Vic obviously)

I'm quite pescimistic about Sochan but pray I'm wrong

I'm like you on Castle, almost too much to the point that I feel I'm jinxing him ^^ The position is so important and tough to fill

Edit / Vassel as well but he's already at a decent level, it's more about dev his playmaking skills

Pretty much all of this...going forward the core 4 we need to see big things developmentally speaking are Vic/DV/Sochan and Castle. Everyone else is either a vet who is highly unlikely to improve significantly/on their downward trajectory or is a younger guy with a low ceiling who will be replaced with our vast trove of draft picks. Seeing Branham or Wesley etc have a nice stretch is cool but also fools gold in some ways because of this.

Sochan is a tough case, he'll go stretches looking completely forgettable and not a great athlete, then all of a sudden he will do 2 things that make him look like the most athletic player on the floor...not sure what he can become in the modern NBA.

Vassell is great, needs to get and stay healthy is all.

Castle, I just hope everyone remembers he is a rookie and tempers expectations accordingly. Having a slow first couple months in the NBA doesn't mean bust long term.

[Mr. Body]

https://x.com/ClutchPoints/status/1841238547442921920

Good to see Chris Paul explaining to Blake Wesley that driving into multiple shotblockers isn't a good idea.

[Mr. Body]

Pretty much all of this...going forward the core 4 we need to see big things developmentally speaking are Vic/DV/Sochan and Castle. Everyone else is either a vet who is highly unlikely to improve significantly/on their downward trajectory or is a younger guy with a low ceiling who will be replaced with our vast trove of draft picks. Seeing Branham or Wesley etc have a nice stretch is cool but also fools gold in some ways because of this.

Sochan is a tough case, he'll go stretches looking completely forgettable and not a great athlete, then all of a sudden he will do 2 things that make him look like the most athletic player on the floor...not sure what he can become in the modern NBA.

Vassell is great, needs to get and stay healthy is all.

Castle, I just hope everyone remembers he is a rookie and tempers expectations accordingly. Having a slow first couple months in the NBA doesn't mean bust long term.

It took Castle a bit to catch on with UConn, although it should be mentioned that he was hurt. It wasn't until conference play that he was really getting into the groove of his duties.

[poopbox]

Cedi Osman such a bum he had to go play in the Greek league :lol

Hopefully he saving spots for Branhim and Wesley for next season :lol

[rjv]

Cedi Osman such a bum he had to go play in the Greek league :lol

Hopefully he saving spots for Branhim and Wesley for next season :lol

i'm actually more skeptical of branham than wesley, although not too optimistic about either of them.

[LeBowen]

i'm actually more skeptical of branham than wesley, although not too optimistic about either of them.

Branham's ceiling is low, but he can somewhat shoot, meaning this floor is higher.
Wesley has a long way to go before looking like a useful NBA player.
But if he develops, point of attack defenders are always in demand if they have something that resembles a functional jumpshot.

[rjv]

Branham's ceiling is low, but he can somewhat shoot, meaning this floor is higher.
Wesley has a long way to go before looking like a useful NBA player.
But if he develops, point of attack defenders are always in demand if they have something that resembles a functional jumpshot.

they have opposite weaknesses and strengths; one can't shoot but defends well, the other can't defend but shoots well.

[scott]

On what planet does Malaki Branham shoot well?

[scott]

Dude is an empirically below average shooter for his position in every shooting category, except for FT%

[tim_duncan_fan]

Speaking of Malaki, is he alright? His media interview from today seemed...strained.

[poopbox]

they have opposite weaknesses and strengths; one can't shoot but defends well, the other can't defend but shoots well.

Wesley isn't a good defender, he just looks like it when he is on the court with the other trash ass defenders we had last year. If he is ever in the game with CP3 or Castle, it will stick out how poor he is defensively.

Branhim has exactly 0 nba skill at doing anything other than making wide open shots. Watching this dude play basketball is like watching a person who never used an axe try and chop wood and repeatedly almost cut their leg off.

We will get a 10 to 15 win boost either when they are both gone or if they both just don't play.

[CGD]

They both gone after this season

[spurs50_]

Hope Sidy is gone after this one too.

[Dex]

Speaking of Malaki, is he alright? His media interview from today seemed...strained.

Dude is on the hot seat after only 2 seasons...I'd be strained too.

[spurraider21]

Dude is on the hot seat after only 2 seasons...I'd be strained too.
He was gifted heavy rotation minutes off rip without earning it. And seemed to regress if anything in year 2

[Mr. Body]

Wesley isn't a good defender, he just looks like it when he is on the court with the other trash ass defenders we had last year. If he is ever in the game with CP3 or Castle, it will stick out how poor he is defensively.

Branhim has exactly 0 nba skill at doing anything other than making wide open shots. Watching this dude play basketball is like watching a person who never used an axe try and chop wood and repeatedly almost cut their leg off.

We will get a 10 to 15 win boost either when they are both gone or if they both just don't play.

Wesley is a good defender. Just stop.

[heyheymymy]

Good to see Chris Paul explaining to Blake Wesley that driving into multiple shotblockers isn't a good idea.

https://media1.tenor.com/m/wCZAG1SxnAgAAAAC/lil-yachty-drake.gif

[poopbox]

He was gifted heavy rotation minutes off rip without earning it. And seemed to regress if anything in year 2

That's what happens when players are bad. The more they play...the more they suck :lol

Branhim is legit one of the 20 worst players in the nba. If I had to choose between Forbes and Branhim, I'd have to really think about it and probably pick Forbes. At least he could be an elite 3 point shooter in certain situations.

[Mitch Cumsteen]

Branham and Wesley are both barely old enough to legally drink. Derrick White was two full years older than either of them during his rookie season. And it still took him 3 or so years to develop into a good NBA player.

I realize patience isn't exactly in vogue, but neither of these guys is anywhere close to a finished product. I'd rather have them on the roster even with a small chance of turning into something serviceable than a replacement level scrub like Cedi Osman.

[Dex]

Branham and Wesley are both barely old enough to legally drink. Derrick White was two full years older than either of them during his rookie season. And it still took him 3 or so years to develop into a good NBA player.

I realize patience isn't exactly in vogue, but neither of these guys is anywhere close to a finished product. I'd rather have them on the roster even with a small chance of turning into something serviceable than a replacement level scrub like Cedi Osman.

It's funny how people here (myself included) were lauding Cedi for his "vet presence" early last season...boy, that sure didn't age well and now the dude is out of the NBA.

Agreed that I want to see more from both Branham and Wesley, but it's too early to pull the emergency switch just yet

[jjspur]

With just the additions of Barnes, CP3 and Castle, that will probably move Branham, Wesley, and G-League Sidy from the deep end of the second team to the end of the 3rd team, if not totally off the team. Also remember that we picked up a few somewhat skilled and experienced minimum salary guys that could replace the 3 stooges as well. Hopefully moving at least one of the three will improve the team a bit. If a player needs 3 extra years to develop into a minimally skilled NBA player- and that is what they are right now, they should have stayed in school longer. Yeah , the money is good but if the skills aren't there, they won't be on the team or the league very long.

[exstatic]

With just the additions of Barnes, CP3 and Castle, that will probably move Branham, Wesley, and G-League Sidy from the deep end of the second team to the end of the 3rd team, if not totally off the team. Also remember that we picked up a few somewhat skilled and experienced minimum salary guys that could replace the 3 stooges as well. Hopefully moving at least one of the three will improve the team a bit. If a player needs 3 extra years to develop into a minimally skilled NBA player- and that is what they are right now, they should have stayed in school longer. Yeah , the money is good but if the skills aren't there, they won't be on the team or the league very long.

Malaki and Blake were draft picks projected and then drafted in the 20s. Those players don’t usually improve their standing by staying another year. It’s near 100% that they will both be on the roster this year, and based on past actions,the Spurs will likely pickup their year 4 options, even if it’s seeing them as potential trade ballast next summer. As long as you’re not a problem child or injured, you get your 4 years on the Spurs roster, even if they have no long term plans for you like Kyle Anderson or Lonnie. It’s cheap labor, which will become increasingly more important under the shadow of the second apron.

Both players will bank good money through four years even if they don’t get a second contract, Malaki at about $14M and Blake at about $12M. If they go back to school and get hurt, they get nothing.

[Mr. Body]

Branham and Wesley are both barely old enough to legally drink. Derrick White was two full years older than either of them during his rookie season. And it still took him 3 or so years to develop into a good NBA player.

I realize patience isn't exactly in vogue, but neither of these guys is anywhere close to a finished product. I'd rather have them on the roster even with a small chance of turning into something serviceable than a replacement level scrub like Cedi Osman.

It's the usual gaggle of posters cranking up their pissbaby-fest to make this season as almost unbearable as any other one with their shit takes. Guess we're saddled with them forever.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7s-mgfIg94


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6oWZ9xT8Z8


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rt1uBO-FcSc

[tonight...you]

Sochan got that Amadeus wig look going on.

[NASpurs]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7s-mgfIg94



https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51FbHP5JqfL._AC_.jpg

[heyheymymy]

damn dude I am a smoothie fan myself and that Blake Wesley smoothie vid is bad ass

That Spurs facility smoothie bar is LEGIT. Love throwing all kinds of shit in my mix and so seeing the hemp seeds and stuff is awesome. There is one shot where you can see a whole shelf of Lakewoods probably lemon juice or something. Their aloe is fire. Those are like $7 per bottle lol big baller smoothie bar imho tbh.

[heyheymymy]

It actually may be their ginger but they also do blends and I could see that being the citrus one

Maybe Knudsens but I think it's Lakewood

[cutewizard]

You all forgot Mamu,....he is not that old yet

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGpTB8ogwVQ

[cutewizard]

a good guy, loves his family, mature, well spoken......

we should sign him for life, just for the locker room presence, hahahaha

just joking, but im glad we have a player like this..............he has Manu's maturity

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJpRSG5IpME

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tvd9vgzy1RM

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6oWZ9xT8Z8

[J_Paco]

It's the usual gaggle of posters cranking up their pissbaby-fest to make this season as almost unbearable as any other one with their shit takes. Guess we're saddled with them forever.

If they aren't a star then expect someone - or everyone - on ST to constantly shit on them.

The only things that Branham (scoring but inconsistently) and Wesley (on-ball defense and some playmaking) are actually passable at ST swears they can't do. Its maddening, but to be expected at this point from this site.

[Leetonidas]

:lmao the sniffers slobbering terrible players per par

Spurs basketball is back baby :smokin

[dn0774]

:lmao the sniffers slobbering terrible players per par

Spurs basketball is back baby :smokin

Seriously, a bunch of this rosters purpose was solely to tank for Wemby and they did that job well. No need to get attached and talk ourselves into guys like Branham and Wesley being long term fits in any way, shape or form. This team won 22 games last year despite Vic being way better than anticipated, that should say it all with regards to the overall talent level of this team. As an aside with him being picked up by the Bulls for g-league purposes, i'm actually happy Primo turned out to be a serial flasher which all but forced the Spurs to cut him early rather than have to watch him be a massive bust for 4 seasons. Such an embarrassing pick.

[Joseph Kony]

Malaki and Blake arent busts guys! Anyone who doesnt think so is a pissbaby!

Wesley and Branham were taken in the 20s so they cant be busts!

They just need more time guys! it doesnt matter that they have shown no improvement over two seasons!

https://i.ibb.co/tzgFGD7/giphy-gif-cid-6c09b952635y3s7fvr8zdeqklbxlxg42e2ekzivexd4jk5ap-ep-v1-internal-gif-by-id-rid-giphy.gif

[exstatic]

Malaki and Blake arent busts guys! Anyone who doesnt think so is a pissbaby!

Wesley and Branham were taken in the 20s so they cant be busts!

They just need more time guys! it doesnt matter that they have shown no improvement over two seasons!

https://i.ibb.co/tzgFGD7/giphy-gif-cid-6c09b952635y3s7fvr8zdeqklbxlxg42e2ekzivexd4jk5ap-ep-v1-internal-gif-by-id-rid-giphy.gif

I actually believe that about any players taken in the 20s or later. Most of the players taken there never make it to a second contract or an NBA career.

[poopbox]

People on this site being fans of Wesley and Branhim :lmao

Players so good the spurs signed a 40 year old and drafted a guard with a top 4 pick to keep them off the floor :lmao

[Mr. Body]

People on this site being fans of Wesley and Branhim :lmao

Players so good the spurs signed a 40 year old and drafted a guard with a top 4 pick to keep them off the floor :lmao

It looks like this message board is in midseason form already. I'm glad the summer hasn't tamped down the utterly shit-for-brains takes here. You must have been practicing. Great job!

[ace3g]

https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/462223130_1073114057519733_6282222062830247954_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=eWZuoUeKmyMQ7kNvgHeVetw&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&_nc_gid=AzmGSktaL6y8-hgPXtYqNZR&oh=00_AYBAE3gMBLVodFKNqj2u4XnVHDaceVPzcwiTPwguWCVs Lg&oe=67064446

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8Td8pxmhLM

[timtonymanu]

:lmao the sniffers slobbering terrible players per par

Spurs basketball is back baby :smokin

I'm rooting for them honestly. I still kinda like Blake. Either way, neither guy will be here for the longterm.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/Casey_Viera/status/1842259524046012919

[Limguogolo]

Taking penalties without a goalkeeper.

It would be more interesting if they showed the footage of these same shots while facing minimal opposition. Because Victor, never in his life, shoots like this in game.

[KingKev]

Dilly balled out last night. He couldn’t have gone to a better situation.

[jeebus]

It's funny how people here (myself included) were lauding Cedi for his "vet presence" early last season...boy, that sure didn't age well and now the dude is out of the NBA.

Just about everyone on last year's team had their value drop. Cedi's averages either stayed the same or dropped a bit, even though he was on a dog shit team. No one wants that on their team and the bad teams already have their tank commanders in place.

[KingKev]

^ PATFO literally ran make a wish foundation the past 3 years. Created generational wealth for at least 10 guys who probably never would have found a place in the NBA if they weren’t such good ppl.

[Leetonidas]

I'm rooting for them honestly. I still kinda like Blake. Either way, neither guy will be here for the longterm.

Of course, we're all rooting for them. Contrary to what some of the smooth brain sniffers think, criticizing your players doesn't mean you hate them and hope they fail. I would love for Blake and Malaki to step it up this year but nothing they've shown thus far gives me much hope and for Blake playing ok defense while being a complete non factor on offense is not a recipe for success in today's NBA especially for a guard

[exstatic]

Of course, we're all rooting for them. Contrary to what some of the smooth brain sniffers think, criticizing your players doesn't mean you hate them and hope they fail. I would love for Blake and Malaki to step it up this year but nothing they've shown thus far gives me much hope and for Blake playing ok defense while being a complete non factor on offense is not a recipe for success in today's NBA especially for a guard

Mar Cow Mar, come on down! You’re the next contestant on the Alt is known!

[Leetonidas]

Mar Cow Mar, come on down! You’re the next contestant on the Alt is known!

Lolwat? You think that's an alt of mine? :lmao really dumb take

[J_Paco]

Of course, we're all rooting for them. Contrary to what some of the smooth brain sniffers think, criticizing your players doesn't mean you hate them and hope they fail. I would love for Blake and Malaki to step it up this year but nothing they've shown thus far gives me much hope and for Blake playing ok defense while being a complete non factor on offense is not a recipe for success in today's NBA especially for a guard

Right, that's why the team added Paul and Castle. Neither has shown enough to warrant a rotational spot. Having a good offensive game every 4th outing (Brahnam) or being a solid perimeter defender that can occasionally create for others doesn't create enough value for a team trying to win.


To the dismay of a lot of haters and whiners here both will likely still see some court time. If either shows some improvement then it'll be huge for their chance at a longer NBA career, if not then they're on the path of a Kris Dunn or some such journeyman.

[KingKev]

After two years of no pressure and unlimited opportunity Branham and Wesley combined make year 3 Walker IV look like all-nba talent.

[J_Paco]

After two years of no pressure and unlimited opportunity Branham and Wesley combined make year 3 Walker IV look like all-nba talent.

Development doesn't work the same for every player. Also, Lonnie was a lottery pick with a higher ceiling than either Malaki or Blake.

They'll end up like Lonnie (4 teams in 4 years) if they don't show more and the Spurs will continue to churn through prospects. Just like OKC, Orlando, Detroit, Houston and every other team trying to compete.

[KingKev]

Development doesn't work the same for every player. Also, Lonnie was a lottery pick with a higher ceiling than either Malaki or Blake.

They'll end up like Lonnie (4 teams in 4 years) if they don't show more and the Spurs will continue to churn through prospects. Just like OKC, Orlando, Detroit, Houston and every other team trying to compete.

Agreed. Not complaining this is par for the course. Branham will never have the length, first step or defensive prowess Blake potentially posses. Blake might be able to find an offensive niche however. I don’t see both sticking around after this year however. Maybe one.

[Leetonidas]

Not that it really matters but Lonnie was not a lottery pick. He was the 18th pick, only two spots ahead of where Branham was drafted

[Fireball]

Damn Dillingham looked smooth in the PS opener for the T-Wolves ... can't help but to keep an eye on him this season :corn:

[baseline bum]

https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/462223130_1073114057519733_6282222062830247954_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=eWZuoUeKmyMQ7kNvgHeVetw&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&_nc_gid=AzmGSktaL6y8-hgPXtYqNZR&oh=00_AYBAE3gMBLVodFKNqj2u4XnVHDaceVPzcwiTPwguWCVs Lg&oe=67064446

Nice. First time I can ever remember the Spurs televising their preseason.

[onechance87]

Damn Dillingham looked smooth in the PS opener for the T-Wolves ... can't help but to keep an eye on him this season :corn:

yup...Heads should roll if he turns out to be a star.Will be watching closely as well along with other players
we passed on.

[KingKev]

Damn Dillingham looked smooth in the PS opener for the T-Wolves ... can't help but to keep an eye on him this season :corn:

Wolves quietly retooled. Donte and Dilly in the back court were big additions. Dilly will have the green light I suspect.

[exstatic]

yup...Heads should roll if he turns out to be a star.Will be watching closely as well along with other players
we passed on.

Spurs were not going to pick him if they kept the pick. Saw an interview during the draft where Rob said that they knew the Spurs weren’t interested, and was surprised by the pick, but his agent told him it was for a trade.

You can be all bitter if you want. I’m just going to watch the guys we did draft, not worry about the ones we didn’t. I was actually on the Dillingham train early last season,but as the year went on, it became apparent that he’d really never be able to defend the position, so he’ll top out as a bench bucket, most likely.

[J_Paco]

Not that it really matters but Lonnie was not a lottery pick. He was the 18th pick, only two spots ahead of where Branham was drafted

Fair point. My mistake, I forgot he wasn't one of the recent lottery picks and lumped him in with Primo, Sochan, etc.

[KingKev]

Fair point. My mistake, I forgot he wasn't one of the recent lottery picks and lumped him in with Primo, Sochan, etc.

Potatoe, potato. Sub Walker’s athleticism with Sochan’s “Kawhi like defense” or Primo’s “open growth plates” and you have the same ST hoopdream.

[Spurs Homer]

yup...Heads should roll if he turns out to be a star.Will be watching closely as well along with other players
we passed on.


both dilly and knecht looked great for their first game

fucking idiot spurs fr ofc

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Z-AFuziZ50


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA0nn_rqgD4


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mh6V3cvhCkw

[timtonymanu]

Of course, we're all rooting for them. Contrary to what some of the smooth brain sniffers think, criticizing your players doesn't mean you hate them and hope they fail. I would love for Blake and Malaki to step it up this year but nothing they've shown thus far gives me much hope and for Blake playing ok defense while being a complete non factor on offense is not a recipe for success in today's NBA especially for a guard

You should the copium post on dillingham by Mrs body in the dillingham thread :lol :lol

[itzsoweezee]

Damn Dillingham looked smooth in the PS opener for the T-Wolves ... can't help but to keep an eye on him this season :corn:

Let’s not exaggerate. He was alright shooting. He simply can’t score in the paint though. Maybe when he learns to draw fouls he can be Lou Williams-esque

[daslicer]

This ping pong competition towards the end with CP3 and Victor was entertaining

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mh6V3cvhCkw

[onechance87]

Spurs were not going to pick him if they kept the pick. Saw an interview during the draft where Rob said that they knew the Spurs weren’t interested, and was surprised by the pick, but his agent told him it was for a trade.

You can be all bitter if you want. I’m just going to watch the guys we did draft, not worry about the ones we didn’t. I was actually on the Dillingham train early last season,but as the year went on, it became apparent that he’d really never be able to defend the position, so he’ll top out as a bench bucket, most likely.

With ths type of mindset is why we wont be good anytime soon.Wright has not done anything special so far being a gm.Just blowing off the fckups
of making a bad team and making bad decisions is not the way to move foward.

[CGD]

^ Why am I not surprised the CP3 is a finalist. I get the impression he does well at all those type of lawn games and probably all the board games too.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1843043142762729602

[Dex]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1843043142762729602

boooooo

It's probably the smart call...still several preseason games to go and and the season is long enough as it is

But still booooooo

[CorrectCrusader]

^ Why am I not surprised the CP3 is a finalist. I get the impression he does well at all those type of lawn games and probably all the board games too.

Respectfully, every single one of them looked really bad at table tennis

[Splits]

1843055910064931162

[KingKev]

^ it’s just basketball

[dn0774]

Wish they would sit Vic on the road instead of at home but w/e. Preseason schedule is kind of odd this year, 3 in a row at home followed by 2 away. Should get a heavy dose of Castle at least tomorrow.

[spurraider21]

No cp3 means castle should get a good amount of run at pg

but with no Collins, Bassey, or Vic, who exactly do we have at center. Just Mamu?

[Pauleta14]

No cp3 means castle should get a good amount of run at pg

but with no Collins, Bassey, or Vic, who exactly do we have at center. Just Mamu?

Mamu and Mensah

[KingKev]

I’m hearing Sochan and CP3 have been butting heads in training camp.


Sochan keeps repeating Pop told me I’m the “Point God” and stealing the ball from CP3.

[ace3g]

Respectfully, every single one of them looked really bad at table tennis

I love watching clips like that, lets me know there is at least one sport I can beat professional athletes at.

[John B]

I love watching clips like that, lets me know there is at least one sport I can beat professional athletes at.

Maybe at first but their alpha mentality will make them work harder. MJ was obsessed with beating everybody on everything, even acting a jerk like MJ, Kobe, Bird. It becomes tiresome even playing a friendly game.

[exstatic]

I love watching clips like that, lets me know there is at least one sport I can beat professional athletes at.

Don’t think that because they struggle with other professional athletes that their combination of height, wingspan and twitch wouldn’t wipe the floor with you even if you have a level of skill at the game. It would be like Wemby getting absolutely turned around on occasion, and still swatting players shots.

[ace3g]

These players aren't used to returning serves with legit spin. They also don't have proper mechanics for their backhand/forehand either.

[ace3g]

I'm no professional but there are levels to table tennis just like any sport.

I've played against high level players and it is way different than recreational table tennis/ping pong. I've only seen a few players in clips like this that could hold their own.

**Plus my comments were about the present not potential/hypothetical skill level improvements.

Also height is a disadvantage in table tennis.

Anyway back to our regularly scheduled program.

[ambchang]

Maybe at first but their alpha mentality will make them work harder. MJ was obsessed with beating everybody on everything, even acting a jerk like MJ, Kobe, Bird. It becomes tiresome even playing a friendly game.

MJ did exactly that in table tennis:
https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/michael_jordan_lost_to_christian_laettner_at_ping_ pong_ordered_a_table_to_his_room_practiced_and_des troyed_him_3_days_later/s1_16751_38173071

The Christian Laettner story is the first I have heard, but I remember reading something similar in the Jordan Rules or something like that with Jordan destroying a teammate in table tennis after losing to him, didn't remember who it was.

Kobe will just send out some rumours that he was hurt, then hire a ghost player in place of him and win a few table tennis trophies, then getting all the credit for training the ghost player.

[spurraider21]

I'm no professional but there are levels to table tennis just like any sport.

I've played against high level players and it is way different than recreational table tennis/ping pong. I've only seen a few players in clips like this that could hold their own.

**Plus my comments were about the present not potential/hypothetical skill level improvements.

Also height is a disadvantage in table tennis.

Anyway back to our regularly scheduled program.
there's definitely levels to it. i was usually good enough to be the best in the room when up against other plebs who played very casually like in a college/school setting. would get wiped against anybody who plays remotely seriously. from the clips i saw, ingram and paul would be fun to play against.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/tom_orsborn/status/1843321766112010522

[ace3g]

https://x.com/tom_orsborn/status/1843324034911777006

[dn0774]

https://x.com/tom_orsborn/status/1843324034911777006

Is men wearing sports bras a thing now?

[Leetonidas]

Is men wearing sports bras a thing now?

They call it the Mansierre

[exstatic]

They call it the Mansierre

The Bro.

[baseline bum]

Is men wearing sports bras a thing now?

It's some kind of tracking device that's popular for using when coming back from an injury. I remember seeing Chet Holmgren wearing one working out after his injury and thinking WTF at first.


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

[LeBowen]

It's some kind of tracking device that's popular for using when coming back from an injury. I remember seeing Chet Holmgren wearing one working out after his injury and thinking WTF at first.

In some other sports players always have them on, even during games. It tracks everything performance related.

[John B]

Damn you could get beat up wearing those growing up

[J_Paco]

In some other sports players always have them on, even during games. It tracks everything performance related.

Right, and it's supposed to some benefit of when a player's body is being overworked. It's been en vogue with the NBA for some time now, but they still haven't allowed it to be used during games.

Which is kind of stupid with the level of stress they put on their bodies - especially lower body extremities - on a nightly basis.

[spurraider21]

1843421456937501182

[spurraider21]

"rare" injury is probably the last thing i wanted to hear

1843422800184250478

[KingKev]

^ we have a top 3 center in the NBA and might still have the weakest frontline in the NBA

[spurraider21]

1843420089972117979

[J_Paco]

^ we have a top 3 center in the NBA and might still have the weakest frontline in the NBA

We just need a guy that can soak up 13 - 15 minutes a night, not some world beater at backup center.

Plus, Barnes, Champagnie and Johnson can easily slide down to PF if the need arises.

I do hope that Bassey can stay healthy and unseat Collins at some point, though.

[John B]

We just need a guy that can soak up 13 - 15 minutes a night, not some world beater at backup center.

Plus, Barnes, Champagnie and Johnson can easily slide down to PF if the need arises.

I do hope that Bassey can stay healthy and unseat Collins at some point, though.

I think that horse is dead. The kid has lost already a lot of weight to play a more faster game

[BackHome]

Without Wemby this team desperately needs height and shooters I am hoping we can get one of each in the next draft

[Mugen]

Without Wemby this team desperately needs height and shooters I am hoping we can get one of each in the next draft

You're going to get a combo guy that doesn't do anything particularly well at an NBA level and like it tbh.
-BWrong

[spurraider21]

Without Wemby this team desperately needs height and shooters I am hoping we can get one of each in the next draft
its why it was pretty wild to me they took Nunez in the 2nd round when they could have taken a flier on Furphy, where thats literally his profile

[Mr. Body]

It's going to be hard to get the right size other than Wemby, since that player basically can't start. This was the same problem OKC had before they got Hartenstein.

[Frenchfred]

Without Wemby this team desperately needs height and shooters I am hoping we can get one of each in the next draft

Cooper Flag :)

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpFUw2VhEMs


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wrr1IXJTAk

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1843776821659418718

[Limguogolo]

Draft picks are used to choose prospects, raw material likely to tick as many boxes as possible in modern basketball. One-dimensional basketball no longer exists. No one can predict the career success of a shooter at 19 years old. This doesn't make any sense.

If you want a shooter, he will rarely be applied to this sole task, and above all, it is in your best interest to take a veteran because with several years under his belt, you know his value and the % provided.

The draft doesn't give you accomplished player types, it gives you lottery tickets that will take shape three, four or five years later.

You choose a “shooter” in the draft who also has average qualities, will you be satisfied from what three-point percentage?

If you want a one-dimensional player, veteran shooters, there are plenty of them. You don't use lottery picks for one-dimensional players. The % comes with time and training (or never comes, and you're going to play in China).

[exstatic]

Cooper Flag :)

Cooper is 6’9” and not a shooter.

[Pauleta14]

Draft picks are used to choose prospects, raw material likely to tick as many boxes as possible in modern basketball. One-dimensional basketball no longer exists. No one can predict the career success of a shooter at 19 years old. This doesn't make any sense.

If you want a shooter, he will rarely be applied to this sole task, and above all, it is in your best interest to take a veteran because with several years under his belt, you know his value and the % provided.

The draft doesn't give you accomplished player types, it gives you lottery tickets that will take shape three, four or five years later.

You choose a “shooter” in the draft who also has average qualities, will you be satisfied from what three-point percentage?

If you want a one-dimensional player, veteran shooters, there are plenty of them. You don't use lottery picks for one-dimensional players. The % comes with time and training (or never comes, and you're going to play in China).

You only need one skill above average to get your entry ticket to the professional world nowadays. Same in football in europe unfortunately

Some clubs/organisations do take the necessary 3-4 years to develop players but most don't and that's how today's level of the NBA basketball or european football has reached its lowest in decades.

Less veterans (higher BBIQ), more 1 and done (not ready), more turnover/ less stable rosters, players not ready yet getting the jackpot bc of the CBA (less insentive to finish their developments) etc

It's a vicious circle we're won't get out soon.

[poopbox]

Weird to hear pop constantly talk about how Keldon doesn't have a defined role on the team yet. Sounds like they plan to get rid of him sooner rather than later, which I don't have a problem with.

[John B]

Spurstalk where posters often miscategorize players and their positions. Castle will barely play the 3.

Funny but it looked like Castle was playing 3 tonight, scoring 17 and dishing 4 assists. But I think he stops playing SF since you said “Castle will barely play the 3.” :lol

[Dejounte]

Funny but it looked like Castle was playing 3 tonight, scoring 17 and dishing 4 assists. But I think he stops playing SF since you said “Castle will barely play the 3.” :lol

You know what you meant when you said he’ll play SF— you think he’ll do that for his career. He’s not DeMar, where he’s playing at this season isn’t his career position. We’re playing like 10 point guards and he’s too good to not play. Bump this thread again when Tre and Paul are gone.

[John B]

You know what you meant when you said he’ll play SF— you think he’ll do that for his career. He’s not DeMar, where he’s playing at this season isn’t his career position. We’re playing like 10 point guards and he’s too good to not play. Bump this thread again when Tre and Paul are gone.

Pop played him with Blake and Malaki, and then later on with Paul and Champ. Bruh, the kid can play 3 and Pop knows it that’s why he’s trying his combinations. It’s a shame to sit our top 4 pick. It’s one game, but if tonight is any indication of his game, he has a good chance at ROTY. And what’s wrong with playing Castle like Demar combo guard? The guy can score and facilitate. He could be a Harden for all I care. He’ll bully his way to the FT line every time.

[exstatic]

Funny but it looked like Castle was playing 3 tonight, scoring 17 and dishing 4 assists. But I think he stops playing SF since you said “Castle will barely play the 3.” :lol

He actually played a lot as the point of attack/PG, but his assist total was lower than it should have been because of a certain 2022 draft pick being unable to hit water if he fell out of a boat.

[John B]

He actually played a lot as the point of attack/PG, but his assist total was lower than it should have been because of a certain 2022 draft pick being unable to hit water if he fell out of a boat.

He showed he could play on a 3 guard offense, which Pop has always loved the idea. And based on Castle’s defense, I think it’s not going to take awhile before Pop insert him in the starting lineup. I just want Castle to have a shot a ROTY. Vegas has Sheppard as the likely winner, but our boy can make a run for it if his play last night was any indication

[exstatic]

He showed he could play on a 3 guard offense, which Pop has always loved the idea. And based on Castle’s defense, I think it’s not going to take awhile before Pop insert him in the starting lineup. I just want Castle to have a shot a ROTY. Vegas has Sheppard as the likely winner, but our boy can make a run for it if his play last night was any indication

Dude, Wemby had to crush it for the last four months just to overcome the anti-Spurs bias. They wanted SO BADLY to give it to Chet.

Castle ain’t winning ROY.

[John B]

Dude, Wemby had to crush it for the last four months just to overcome the anti-Spurs bias. They wanted SO BADLY to give it to Chet.

Castle ain’t winning ROY.

Damn :depressed

[exstatic]

Damn :depressed

Don’t worry. If the shooting is real, he’ll be a fixture on All D and make a few ASG appearances. Think of a 6’6” Jrue Holiday. You won’t even remember who won ROY this year.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Dude, Wemby had to crush it for the last four months just to overcome the anti-Spurs bias. They wanted SO BADLY to give it to Chet.

Castle ain’t winning ROY.

Them just handing it over without a challenge would not have been good for him.

On that note, I love that that reporter reminded him about playing closer to the basket during postgame last night.

[John B]

Don’t worry. If the shooting is real, he’ll be a fixture on All D and make a few ASG appearances. Think of a 6’6” Jrue Holiday. You won’t even remember who won ROY this year.

And All Defensive team hopefully.

[exstatic]

And All Defensive team hopefully.

That’s what All D means.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bzV5wMzS-8


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

[Spurs Brazil]

https://x.com/PaulGarciaNBA/status/1845571419838587190

[ChumpDumper]

Minix has to be the clubhouse leader for the two-way spot. Will be kind of wild if all these vets end up playing for the Toros.

[ace3g]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8msFUs7r1E

[spurraider21]

So apparently Ryan Dunn is a sharpshooter

[Pauleta14]

Same period last season, Jordan Poole was supposed to take over the league

[Ice009]

So apparently Ryan Dunn is a sharpshooter

Ryan Dunn?

[exstatic]

Ryan Dunn?

A transformative defensive wing drafted from UVa who couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat, but apparently is a sniper now for the Suns. Last year at UVa: 7-35 from 3, 20%. Preseason for the Suns: 12-27, 44%. Honestly, if people thought he would develop a shot this quickly, he probably would have gone top 10, not 28th.

[LeBowen]

A transformative defensive wing drafted from UVa who couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat, but apparently is a sniper now for the Suns. Last year at UVa: 7-35 from 3, 20%. Preseason for the Suns: 12-27, 44%. Honestly, if people thought he would develop a shot this quickly, he probably would have gone top 10, not 28th.

Not only that, he was barely over 50% from FT in college.
Everyone thought he'd be the next Andre Roberson, but if he can actually shoot...Suns might've finally got themselves a W.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

A transformative defensive wing drafted from UVa who couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat, but apparently is a sniper now for the Suns. Last year at UVa: 7-35 from 3, 20%. Preseason for the Suns: 12-27, 44%. Honestly, if people thought he would develop a shot this quickly, he probably would have gone top 10, not 28th.

I was really really high on Dunn. If this continues, man -- the Suns could end up w/ best player in this draft.

[exstatic]

I was really really high on Dunn. If this continues, man -- the Suns could end up w/ best player in this draft.

My biased opinion is that we did, but they may have drafted a top 5 pick at #28.

[heyheymymy]

Damn Dunn's big glaring weakness was shooting and if that has come together and can be consistent with his staunch defense and physical attributes he will be dangerous

How did this get past so many scouts lol

[exstatic]

Damn Dunn's big glaring weakness was shooting and if that has come together and can be consistent with his staunch defense and physical attributes he will be dangerous

How did this get past so many scouts lol

Well, we’ll see if it holds up, but there was zero shooting signal. Sometimes if they shoot 75-80% from the line, you can count on some improvement. He shot 53%. Weird things just happen, sometimes.

[Ice009]

Darn, I'll have to take a look at him, but sounds like Suns got a steal if his shooting improvement is real.

[spurraider21]

Damn Dunn's big glaring weakness was shooting and if that has come together and can be consistent with his staunch defense and physical attributes he will be dangerous

How did this get past so many scouts lol
he didnt have anything resembling a jumper at UVA and even in the combine drills he showed very poorly.

honestly its pretty inexpicable. it would be like shaq becoming an 80% free throw shooter overnight after the Suns traded for him. if it holds, of course

Dunn's defense is so fun to watch, he's the best man to man defending prospect that i can remember off the top of my head. its just that given his complete lack of offensive game other than being a good athlete, he was doomed to just being a small ball 5 as so much of his limited offensive production at UVA just came as a pick and roll finisher. but if he can actually hang as a perimeter player who can even survive with a 35% ish 3 point shot, the Suns definitely got a steal. if he's going to shoot a better percentage than that and with the volume he's been showing in preseason... thats not ok :lol

[cutewizard]

Has anyone heard of Isaiah Miller

[spurraider21]

Has anyone heard of Isaiah Miller
no but im expecting you'll make about 10 consecutive posts consisting of 10 separate youtubes about him soon