Spurs Bigs - who to target

[Guru of Nothing]

Players on Spurs taller than 6'8":

Wemby



Bassey
Minix?

Did I forget anyone?

I hope the Spurs target Kornet, but I think Celtics can retain him now that they've shed Holiday and Porzingus.

Raynaud, Kalkbrenner, and Broome still on board, and a few other interesting projects.

I predict board sentiment will lean strong towards Collins. Can either Aldama or LaRavia simulate backup center? Not too familiar with their games?

I won't be upset if Biyombo is brought back. He looks like he can turn in 15 minutes of B+ backup work on the regular.

[CorrectCrusader]

Kinda sad Hansen Yang went so early because I would've been banging the desk to trade back into the 2nd for him.

I'd be happy trading back in for Maxime or Kalkbrenner though.

[Mr. Body]

Daniel Gafford would be the ideal. Mavs extended him to trade him, it seems, although there are going to be big suitors and I don't think the Spurs will bid heavily.

Aldama is very promising.

LaRavia I have less of a feel for, but yeah.

One of those players. I'd be okay with Kornet. There's a premium on good bigs in the league and the Spurs badly need some.

[CGD]

- If possible, trade in for Raynaud & Kalkbrenner (though both CHA and BOS need bigs)
- FA Targets: Lopez; Kornett; Capella

[scott]

I hope our plan isn’t Biyombo. Great dude and all but he is not good, he only looked good for us in limited action last year because we are so deprived of what decent backup C play looks like that anything resembling it looks good to us. Maybe as an energy third string option… but if he is our backup C, then I promise we’re all going to be complaining about him in no time.

I’m a huge Santi fan, and he’s tall enough to play some backup big minutes but he’s really not a C. He’s more of just a very tall 3/4 (which is part of why I like him). He can play some spot C minutes, but IMO he shouldn’t be counted on to be our backup C. He’s less of a C than Mamu, IMO. Would be a great option as our starting 4 though.

Also a huge LaRavia fan, he’s a 3 capable of playing the 4. He would be useful here, but we have a lot of 3s who are capable of playing the 4 (including just drafting one). If LaRavia is coming, some other guys gotta go.

Capela is slightly washed, but I think he’d be an upgrade over Biyombo.

Loving all the moves Brian is making, so I’m not complaining… but I do hope there is a plan here because that glaring need at backup C is becoming a blinking red light.

[Mr. Body]

Capella or Lopez are ancient but would be good grabs for a couple of years.

[Tyrone Jenkins]

2030 FRB and 3 SRPs for John Collins (Utah)

[LeBowen]

Lopez doesn't really fit since we're obviously going to play at a high pace, he's got no legs left.

Timelord would be ideal if he could stay healthy, I don't think he'd be expensive, Blazers have too many bigs.
But he's never healthy.

[Guru of Nothing]

Forgot about Gafford. Had not thought about Dallas as a possible destination for Devin if he gets moved, but it looks like there is a definite role for him there. Would never happen.

[Guru of Nothing]

And Clingan? Is it worth trying to shake him loose. Would be an odd-fit amid all the Spurs athleticism, but maybe he posts Rodman-like stats here. That would be great.

[Chomag]

What's Boban doing these days ? :lol

[Anonymous Cowherd]

Walker Kessler?

Nic Claxton?

[scott]

I think it was LeBowen who jokingly mentioned Ayton… but… what about Ayton? He’s an expiring, so for 1 year as a backup on a bloated salary it wouldn’t be bad. You could do Devin + Bran or Barnes + Keldon to make the money work.

I think this is a poor return for Vassell, but that deal at least gets you off long term money and helps clear out the logjam. Barnes and Keldon would work better probably for POR, and cleans up our logjam at the wings even better, but doesn’t clean up the Vassell money.

If POR would add a 1st, I’d definitely do the Devin deal… but I’m not sure they would.

[scott]

Walker Kessler?

Nic Claxton?

POR and BKN are the two teams with too many centers on their roster… I think we should be paying attention there.

DaRon Sharpe is an RFA, but not BKN has too many C’s… maybe he’s an option?

[Spursfanfromafar]

Capela if they end up with blanks in the second round

[spurraider21]

I think it was LeBowen (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=54457) who jokingly mentioned Ayton… but… what about Ayton? He’s an expiring, so for 1 year as a backup on a bloated salary it wouldn’t be bad. You could do Devin + Bran or Barnes + Keldon to make the money work.

I think this is a poor return for Vassell, but that deal at least gets you off long term money and helps clear out the logjam. Barnes and Keldon would work better probably for POR, and cleans up our logjam at the wings even better, but doesn’t clean up the Vassell money.

If POR would add a 1st, I’d definitely do the Devin deal… but I’m not sure they would.
i like ayton more than most, but i dont think those deals make sense. we still need barnes quite a bit, and id only trade him if we were landing a legit starting forward (like the KD speculation). and with vassell, yes we have our issues with him. let me ask you this, if it were an option, would you amnesty vassel right now? because trading him for ayton to be a backup center and expiring contract kind of feels like that

i also dont like the idea of trading first round capital for gafford

[LeBowen]

I think it was LeBowen (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=54457) who jokingly mentioned Ayton… but… what about Ayton? He’s an expiring, so for 1 year as a backup on a bloated salary it wouldn’t be bad. You could do Devin + Bran or Barnes + Keldon to make the money work.

I think this is a poor return for Vassell, but that deal at least gets you off long term money and helps clear out the logjam. Barnes and Keldon would work better probably for POR, and cleans up our logjam at the wings even better, but doesn’t clean up the Vassell money.

If POR would add a 1st, I’d definitely do the Devin deal… but I’m not sure they would.

The issue is that they just traded Simons for Jrue in order to create space (both on the floor and financially) for Sharpe. They have no interest in Devin.

We could do the deal with $26.25M in salaries, but I don't want to give up Barnes for Ayton and I'm not sure Blazers would take an extra year of Keldon.

As a player, he'd be a great backup and he'd surely put some effort in because it's his contract year.
But I don't see him as a Spur long term, meaning I wouldn't give up anything more than other pieces with no value.

Would have to include a third team, but I have absolutely no clue what are Blazers planning to do.


Another option I'd consider would be a John Collins + Kessler package.
But again, Jazz wants nothing to do with Devin and I suspect it would cost us either '26 or '30 FRP, if not more because they really value Kessler.

Devin+'30 swap returned+seconds for Gafford and Washington still seems ideal, I'd even throw in another protected FRP assuming Washington signs an extension right away.

[spurraider21]

much rather target somebody who should be cheap like Capela or Jaxson Hayes if other options like Kornet fall through

[LeBowen]

much rather target somebody who should be cheap like Capela or Jaxson Hayes if other options like Kornet fall through

The thing is that a lot of playoff teams will offer a bigger role to Capela.
Lakers, Warriors, Grizzlies, Bucks need a starting big, I see no reason why would Capela join us if he can be a starter somewhere else.
Hayes is garbage.

[scott]

i like ayton more than most, but i dont think those deals make sense. we still need barnes quite a bit, and id only trade him if we were landing a legit starting forward (like the KD speculation). and with vassell, yes we have our issues with him. let me ask you this, if it were an option, would you amnesty vassel right now? because trading him for ayton to be a backup center and expiring contract kind of feels like that

i also dont like the idea of trading first round capital for gafford

I agree with you. If we did the Barnes + KJ deal we’d absolutely need something like Aldama coming in to make it work.

I also agree on Vassell. No I wouldn’t amnesty him. That’s why I mentioned I felt it was a poor return on Vassell. To make it work for the Spurs, POR would probably need to kick in an FRP, but I don’t think they’d do that.

[Ice009]

POR and BKN are the two teams with too many centers on their roster… I think we should be paying attention there.

DaRon Sharpe is an RFA, but not BKN has too many C’s… maybe he’s an option?

Brooklyn is interesting, but has Sean Marks ever traded with the Spurs?

[venitian navigator]

Fleming and Raynoud are currently projected as 31 and 32 picks this night... They could be the best options considering they both can play center and we lack three spots all, IMHO, for PF or c roles... Lopez, Yabusele and Kornet the other possible and affordable choices for 1 to three of these spots...

[spurraider21]

ive had a crush of Fleming throughout the draft process. his game is rudimentary and he only does a few things but he does those things well and all those things should translate.

including Harper and Bryant, we have 12 guys on our roster. that's also before any hypothetical re-signings whether they be Mamu, Biyombo, Bassey, etc

i would imagine the spurs want to at least make 2 free agent signings using the MLE and potentially BAE. they could still move up for a second rounder and do that. if they are willing to be active on the trade market, i dont think branham/wesley would be too difficult to move off of. i like wesley and would have liked to keep him, but that was before Harper fell into our laps

[R. DeMurre]

Dark horse candidate: Tristan Vukcevic. A UFA, still only 22, showed improvement from year one to year two (on a bad team), shot 37% from 3, improved on his foul prone tendencies this season, would be inexpensive.

[Ariel]

Lopez doesn't really fit since we're obviously going to play at a high pace, he's got no legs left.

Timelord would be ideal if he could stay healthy, I don't think he'd be expensive, Blazers have too many bigs.
But he's never healthy.
Yeah, Brook Lopez is done, one year of him would be my absolute last option if there's nothing else. RWIII's knees are also done, you can probably get him for a couple second rounders but I'd aim at someone who can be relied on long term. I like Kalkbrenner if we can get him for a couple seconds, maybe Phoenix could make Nick Richards available for a second round pick now that they landed Maluach and Mark Williams.

I'm also interested in Aldama and LaRavia but they don't qualify as bigs, so I'm not going into that here.

[Chinook]

So I like finding a way to get back to the top of the second round to take Raynaud. Then trade for Portis and agree to give him a $38M/2 extension with the second year being a team option. Trade Vassell and Barnes for MPJ. I also have them signing Trendon Watford, who is a forward with size who has shown some things but had a horrible year last year.

Fox, Castle, Wesley
Harper, Champagnie, Branham
Porter, Johnson, Minix
Sochan, Bryant, Watford
Wembanyama, Portis, Raynaud

They retain Branham and Wesley for further trades, but ideally one of them is replaced by a vet PG who gets bought out during the year. For two-way contracts, I'd want another center, preferably a defensive prospect with size in case of injuries. I'd also want another guard considering they have three expiring players there right now. They actually have pretty good wing and forward depth after this, so maybe doubling up on guards would be a good strategy. I have Castle coming off the bench because I hate him -- or rather because despite both him and Harper being thought of as non-shooters, Harper shoots the ball well enough off the catch. If you aren't trying to run him as your star creator, he can come in and get minutes already.

I think some would like to run Fox, Castle, Bryant, Portis, Wembanyama to really key in on defense and rebounding. Maybe that could work well enough. That second unit would be Harper, Champagnie, Johnson, Porter and Sochan, which while not hopeless seems awkward to build around replacing Champ for Raynaud makes the positions work better, but Max isn't really a defender as far as I have seen, so it might not be the best move in practice If they were to trade in for Fleming instead, the second-unit defense probably wouldn't be an issue. But Harper not having an offensive big to work with in those units might end up not helping his growth.

[LeBowen]

Alright, let's go over our trade options.


Okongwu: Would be a great fit for the way we're trying to play if we can get him for Devin and '26 swap returned.

Claxton: Another high end backup on a declining contract, would require a FRP. Maybe expand the trade to include Cam Johnson.

Vucevic: Expiring, can be had for dirt cheap. The best option on offense out of all these guys and the worst defender, but a good rebounder.

Gafford: Is he even available? Would be a great option.

Robinson: Health concern, expiring contract, I don't think Knicks can afford to extend him.

Ayton: We can't really send enough expiring money for him. Losing Barnes for Ayton would be dumb.

Timelord: Can't stay healthy.

Poeltl: I thought he'd be available after the Raptors draft Maluach, but it didn't happen.

Kessler: Ainge would ask for 2 FRPs.


Fre agents are a bunch of washed players already mentioned, I'm not high on any of them.

[Chinook]

ive had a crush of Fleming throughout the draft process. his game is rudimentary and he only does a few things but he does those things well and all those things should translate.

including Harper and Bryant, we have 12 guys on our roster. that's also before any hypothetical re-signings whether they be Mamu, Biyombo, Bassey, etc

i would imagine the spurs want to at least make 2 free agent signings using the MLE and potentially BAE. they could still move up for a second rounder and do that. if they are willing to be active on the trade market, i dont think branham/wesley would be too difficult to move off of. i like wesley and would have liked to keep him, but that was before Harper fell into our laps

I like trading up for a center tonight and then trading Branham for Valanciunas. That gives them a stop-gap for the new guy to grow, and in the meantime someone who is still a load inside who could be a sneaky match-up wildcard to play him with Victor ala Adams and Sengun against Golden State.

[Dejounte]

Alright, let's go over our trade options.


Okongwu: Would be a great fit for the way we're trying to play if we can get him for Devin and '26 swap returned.

Claxton: Another high end backup on a declining contract, would require a FRP. Maybe expand the trade to include Cam Johnson.

Vucevic: Expiring, can be had for dirt cheap. The best option on offense out of all these guys and the worst defender, but a good rebounder.

Gafford: Is he even available? Would be a great option.

Robinson: Health concern, expiring contract, I don't think Knicks can afford to extend him.

Ayton: We can't really send enough expiring money for him. Losing Barnes for Ayton would be dumb.

Timelord: Can't stay healthy.

Poeltl: I thought he'd be available after the Raptors draft Maluach, but it didn't happen.

Kessler: Ainge would ask for 2 FRPs.


Fre agents are a bunch of washed players already mentioned, I'm not high on any of them.

Okongwu would help me get over not drafting Sorber so easily. Send them back their shitty firsts tbh

[The Truth #6]

Maybe an overseas player. Any Aussies?

[Ice009]

Alright, let's go over our trade options.


Okongwu: Would be a great fit for the way we're trying to play if we can get him for Devin and '26 swap returned.

Claxton: Another high end backup on a declining contract, would require a FRP. Maybe expand the trade to include Cam Johnson.

Vucevic: Expiring, can be had for dirt cheap. The best option on offense out of all these guys and the worst defender, but a good rebounder.

Gafford: Is he even available? Would be a great option.

Robinson: Health concern, expiring contract, I don't think Knicks can afford to extend him.

Ayton: We can't really send enough expiring money for him. Losing Barnes for Ayton would be dumb.

Timelord: Can't stay healthy.

Poeltl: I thought he'd be available after the Raptors draft Maluach, but it didn't happen.

Kessler: Ainge would ask for 2 FRPs.


Fre agents are a bunch of washed players already mentioned, I'm not high on any of them.

Okongwu: I really like the Okongwu idea.

Claxton: I haven't watched him much (what are his strengths and weaknesses?), and also very interesting idea to expand the trade for Cam Johnson (is Cam a better or worse defender than Devin?)

Vucevic: Never been a fan of his due to his poor defender, but definitely a solid rebounder.

Gafford: He'd be really good, but no idea if Dallas wants to trade him, and/or trade him to the Spurs. I'd like to somehow expand the trade to get both PJ Washington and Gafford if the Spurs are looking to give back their pick swap.

Robinson: I think he misses games, so I wouldn't be interested.

Ayton: Yeah, DO NOT want to give up assets for rental, especially not Barnes for him. I also don't trust Ayton as he seems to be a contract year player. If he does well, Spurs might want to keep him and that would be too risky IMO.

RW III: I would definitely be interested if he were healthy as he was a really good defender for Boston a few years ago, but if his injuries aren't behind him, I have zero interest. Good option, though, if he were healthy.

Poeltl: I thought the Raptors were going to draft a center too, so probably not available anymore, and if he were, they probably want more than I'd be willing to pay to get him

Kessler: Not sure what it would cost, but if it's a lot, Ainge can go F himself.

Solid point about a lot of those free agents being washed, but if it's a choice between one of those guys and no-one, I'd take a Clint Capela or maybe even Brook Lopez if they can't get anyone else, as the Spurs do need help and having a few more veterans around would help IMO.

Chinooks Valanciunas idea is a good one too. I've wanted him on the Spurs for a while now. Would be good as a backup I think.

[spurraider21]

really not a fan of trading first round picks for a center already on their second contracts when their ceiling is backup

using a first round pick on a guy like sorber to be your cost controlled backup for a few years who you can later extend/flip makes sense. using a first round pick for somebody alreayd making a good amount of money like gafford with the intention of him being your backup seems like bad business

okongwu could potentially play some 4, so theres more intrigue there

id much rather just sign a cheaper FA and trade seconds for a 4 like collins. we currently have 4 second round picks next year. need to start moving them somehow.

or even sign yabusele. im not crazy about him, but he was playing out of position as a center for much of last year.

[CGD]

I’m on the Okongwu train. Problem is that Atlanta, like us here, now know that 26SWAP is super meh so they’d probably want their 2027 back.

I’d seriously consider it tbh. Keldon and a return the rest of the Murray trade picks for Okungwu. He’s 24, on a good deal, and would slot well next to Vic and eventually Bryant.

[Mr. Body]

Unless you can finesse a Gafford, we're looking at stopgaps. Tbh backup bigs will probably be stopgaps for us going forward like back in the day when we were in the Nazr and Rasho and Kevin Willis and Elson days.

[J_Paco]

really not a fan of trading first round picks for a center already on their second contracts when their ceiling is backup

using a first round pick on a guy like sorber to be your cost controlled backup for a few years who you can later extend/flip makes sense. using a first round pick for somebody alreayd making a good amount of money like gafford with the intention of him being your backup seems like bad business

okongwu could potentially play some 4, so theres more intrigue there

id much rather just sign a cheaper FA and trade seconds for a 4 like collins. we currently have 4 second round picks next year. need to start moving them somehow.

or even sign yabusele. im not crazy about him, but he was playing out of position as a center for much of last year.

Yeah, I'd rather retain Mamu and go cheap with a backup 5 (plus an undrafted Two-Way unlike last year).

Getting a quality back up is a priority, but I'd rather not spend cap space & assets to acquire them. Get by with a better platoon over the Bassey - Biyombo - Mamu - Collins contingent of last year and draft a more 'future proof' prospect next season.

If they do go all out for a 4/5, then it should be a Naz Reid or a young, unproven guy like Vukcevic (like a prior poster said).

Trying to find a gem should be the priority if they don't want to wait until next year's draft.

[Mr. Body]

As a note, we haven't been getting clear intel on Wemby's health issue. The fact that the team isn't beelining to upgrading at the big spots suggests they know they need players there but not a super priority in the draft.

[J_Paco]

As a note, we haven't been getting clear intel on Wemby's health issue. The fact that the team isn't beelining to upgrading at the big spots suggests they know they need players there but not a super priority in the draft.

Yeah, good point.

I just like the cost-controlled nature of drafting a player over signing or trading for a backup.

If heathy Wemby will eat up a lot minutes anyway, but his stamina issues and overall health are still a concern. I just don't want the team to find itself in a similar situation to last season.

[poopbox]

I mean I don't even know what kind of big the spurs actually want :rollin

I think we all just assume it will be someone who is a rim protector because that is what they NEED but after listening to Brian Wright press conference after the draft I can't make heads or tails of what the Spurs are actually trying to do .

I think it's greater than a 0% chance that Bismack Biyombo picks up his phone in a week and has 3 missed calls from the Spurs :rollin

Not at all interested in the Spurs taking a big with a second round pick they NEVER play any of their second round picks not named Tre Jones

[poopbox]

I hope our plan isn’t Biyombo. Great dude and all but he is not good, he only looked good for us in limited action last year because we are so deprived of what decent backup C play looks like that anything resembling it looks good to us. Maybe as an energy third string option… but if he is our backup C, then I promise we’re all going to be complaining about him in no time.

I’m a huge Santi fan, and he’s tall enough to play some backup big minutes but he’s really not a C. He’s more of just a very tall 3/4 (which is part of why I like him). He can play some spot C minutes, but IMO he shouldn’t be counted on to be our backup C. He’s less of a C than Mamu, IMO. Would be a great option as our starting 4 though.

Also a huge LaRavia fan, he’s a 3 capable of playing the 4. He would be useful here, but we have a lot of 3s who are capable of playing the 4 (including just drafting one). If LaRavia is coming, some other guys gotta go.

Capela is slightly washed, but I think he’d be an upgrade over Biyombo.

Loving all the moves Brian is making, so I’m not complaining… but I do hope there is a plan here because that glaring need at backup C is becoming a blinking red light.

Did you watch Wrights press conference after the draft? Cause I walked away from that feeling like the spurs don't see backup center as some pressing need. More than a 0% chance you about to get some more Bi in your Yambo :rollin

[RC_Drunkford]

can we get Clingan from Portland? They got 5 centers now

[Dejounte]

can we get Clingan from Portland? They got 5 centers now
I think they’re a team that actually wants to build big/ go for the twin towers approach

[spurraider21]

I think they’re a team that actually wants to build big/ go for the twin towers approach
neither yang or clingan are mobile enough to even try to play the 4

[benefactor]

I mean I don't even know what kind of big the spurs actually want :rollin

I think we all just assume it will be someone who is a rim protector because that is what they NEED but after listening to Brian Wright press conference after the draft I can't make heads or tails of what the Spurs are actually trying to do .

I think it's greater than a 0% chance that Bismack Biyombo picks up his phone in a week and has 3 missed calls from the Spurs :rollin

Not at all interested in the Spurs taking a big with a second round pick they NEVER play any of their second round picks not named Tre Jones
It's kind of hard to say who they will and won't play at this moment. This coaching staff has never coached this team. I'm wondering if this is part of the reason they are not doing a real big shake up just yet. The first half of next season is going to tell us a lot.

[Dejounte]

neither yang or clingan are mobile enough to even try to play the 4

yeah but maybe they dont care

[LeBowen]

Ayton is an expiring, I doubt they plan on keeping him.
Yang won't play much this season, Clingan will take over from Ayton.
Timelord is up for grabs, but I think he's done.

He played only 61 games over the past 3 years.
But then again, we managed to recover Collins, so who knows.
The issue is that he relied on his athleticism and now that's most likely gone.

[scott]

neither yang or clingan are mobile enough to even try to play the 4

Temu Jokic and Connecticut Arvydas Sabonis are about to start a revolution in the PacNW

[vy65]

So I like finding a way to get back to the top of the second round to take Raynaud. Then trade for Portis and agree to give him a $38M/2 extension with the second year being a team option. Trade Vassell and Barnes for MPJ. I also have them signing Trendon Watford, who is a forward with size who has shown some things but had a horrible year last year.

Fox, Castle, Wesley
Harper, Champagnie, Branham
Porter, Johnson, Minix
Sochan, Bryant, Watford
Wembanyama, Portis, Raynaud

They retain Branham and Wesley for further trades, but ideally one of them is replaced by a vet PG who gets bought out during the year. For two-way contracts, I'd want another center, preferably a defensive prospect with size in case of injuries. I'd also want another guard considering they have three expiring players there right now. They actually have pretty good wing and forward depth after this, so maybe doubling up on guards would be a good strategy. I have Castle coming off the bench because I hate him -- or rather because despite both him and Harper being thought of as non-shooters, Harper shoots the ball well enough off the catch. If you aren't trying to run him as your star creator, he can come in and get minutes already.

I think some would like to run Fox, Castle, Bryant, Portis, Wembanyama to really key in on defense and rebounding. Maybe that could work well enough. That second unit would be Harper, Champagnie, Johnson, Porter and Sochan, which while not hopeless seems awkward to build around replacing Champ for Raynaud makes the positions work better, but Max isn't really a defender as far as I have seen, so it might not be the best move in practice If they were to trade in for Fleming instead, the second-unit defense probably wouldn't be an issue. But Harper not having an offensive big to work with in those units might end up not helping his growth.

MIN has #31. You would think that with Gobert + Naz + Randle that they woudln't be in the market for another big (*Reynaud*). I'd love to spend several SRP to get #31 and take Reynaud but I honestly seriously doubt that that's even a remote possibility.

[LeBowen]

MIN has #31. You would think that with Gobert + Naz + Randle that they woudln't be in the market for another big (*Reynaud*). I'd love to spend several SRP to get #31 and take Reynaud but I honestly seriously doubt that that's even a remote possibility.

I don't see why not if Spurs rate him.
We need two bigs since Bassey and Biyombo are likely gone.

Raynaud or whoever else in the second round would be the third stringer.
We can't have just one big in games when Wemby sits.

I actually wouldn't mind getting one of overqualified backups with ~$20M a year salary because we don't want to overburden Wemby.
Claxton would be a great option, he'd enable us to keep playing at a high tempo when Wemby sits, we'd run most benches off the floor.

We get Raynaud or another young big to develop for a year or two and trade Claxton when he's up for an extension.

[scott]

This is pure copium... but depending on what conversations guys like Raynaud and Kalkbrenner have had with teams, they may be able to force their way to UDFA and sign with their preferred team. This is (rumored) essentially what Austin Reaves did. He told teams he wouldn't sign a two-way with them, so he just went to UDFA and signed a guaranteed deal with the Lakers.

Essentially at top the second round, every player picked is either 1) someone teams are willing to give a guaranteed deal to or 2) a guy who has agreed in advance to a two-way. In some ways, SRPs have more power to control their destiny. So if some of these guys are only being asked to take two-ways, they can say no and make it to UDFA.

[spurraider21]

MIN has #31. You would think that with Gobert + Naz + Randle that they woudln't be in the market for another big (*Reynaud*). I'd love to spend several SRP to get #31 and take Reynaud but I honestly seriously doubt that that's even a remote possibility.
they also just drafted Beringer

[LeBowen]

TWolves should be picking Fleming if they keep the pick.

[vy65]

I don't see why not if Spurs rate him.
We need two bigs since Bassey and Biyombo are likely gone.

Raynaud or whoever else in the second round would be the third stringer.
We can't have just one big in games when Wemby sits.

I actually wouldn't mind getting one of overqualified backups with ~$20M a year salary because we don't want to overburden Wemby.
Claxton would be a great option, he'd enable us to keep playing at a high tempo when Wemby sits, we'd run most benches off the floor.

We get Raynaud or another young big to develop for a year or two and trade Claxton when he's up for an extension.

The way I see it is: if they were really looking to move into the early 30s, they wouldn't have sold 38 to IND. Keeping 38 would reduce the number of additional (SRP) draft compensation they would need to use to get to the low 30s.

You could say that they were keen on Fleming/Reynaud/Kalkbrenner/etc... and just didn't know that they'd fall into the second round. Somewhat fair. But they could have taken a wait-and-see approach and if those guys were gone in the first round, then they could have made the deal with IND. The fact that they sold 38 before the draft started is a strong signal they aren't planning on being active today.

[scott]

The way I see it is: if they were really looking to move into the early 30s, they wouldn't have sold 38 to IND. Keeping 38 would reduce the number of additional (SRP) draft compensation they would need to use to get to the low 30s.

You could say that they were keen on Fleming/Reynaud/Kalkbrenner/etc... and just didn't know that they'd fall into the second round. Somewhat fair. But they could have taken a wait-and-see approach and if those guys were gone in the first round, then they could have made the deal with IND. The fact that they sold 38 before the draft started is a strong signal they aren't planning on being active today.

The other way of looking at it is that 38 doesn't help you move up in the second round at all, because a team selling an early second doesn't want #38 either - they just want out.

So maybe the Spurs decided their probably wouldn't be anyone they like at 38, let's go ahead and get another SRP that a team might like better (because it kicks the can down the road) along with some cash, and if we have to buy into the high 30s, then we have another pick to do so with.

[palangi]

How about Keldon and a second round pick to Boston for Neemias Qeuta?

a solid back up center bring Bassey back as the third center.

trade some second round picks and Barnes to Charlotte for the 33rd pick and draft Reynaud who can play the 4 and 5.

sign Yabusele

Fox, Harper, Wesley
Castle, Vassell, Branham
Sochan, Champangie, Bryant
Yabusele, Raynaud, Mamu
Wemby, Queta, Bassey

[SpursFan86]

Lakers apparently targeting Kalkbrenner in the 2nd round which makes a lot of sense for them.

I really want Raynaud. Then target a vet big for the minimum or BAE in FA...let him and Raynaud battle it out for those backup C minutes.

[vy65]

The other way of looking at it is that 38 doesn't help you move up in the second round at all, because a team selling an early second doesn't want #38 either - they just want out.

So maybe the Spurs decided their probably wouldn't be anyone they like at 38, let's go ahead and get another SRP that a team might like better (because it kicks the can down the road) along with some cash, and if we have to buy into the high 30s, then we have another pick to do so with.

From your lips to Allah's ears habibi

[spurraider21]

The other way of looking at it is that 38 doesn't help you move up in the second round at all, because a team selling an early second doesn't want #38 either - they just want out.

So maybe the Spurs decided their probably wouldn't be anyone they like at 38, let's go ahead and get another SRP that a team might like better (because it kicks the can down the road) along with some cash, and if we have to buy into the high 30s, then we have another pick to do so with.
you son of a bitch, im in

[Limguogolo]

It's likely that the Spurs were targeting Beringer with the pick 14 before seeing that Carter was available. Either they drafted a big and they lacked that 3&D, or they did the opposite. If the Wolves took Beringer, it is perhaps also because they were certain that Naz Reid will no longer be in MIN in October.

I didn't know Beringer. I must have seen him in the French youth team, but there were already a lot of players in front of him. Carter is excellent, but the Spurs missed an exceptional opportunity. A 7footer with such a combination of agility, speed, flexibility and strength is unreal. If Victor can reach this level of athleticism it would be perfect. Here we see the importance of allowing young people to try various sports very early. They develop bodily intelligence and a condition that can always be transmitted by changing sports. Victor must be aware of this, and this is what he said to explain his time in China.

Beringer moves around the floor like indoor football players half his size. He moves his feet and has the mobility and acceleration of a football or volleyball player. I can't wait to see the next battle between Victor against Gobert and Beringer...


I don't know if it's possible, but the Yabusele/Reid alliance would be ideal. I don't see how the Spurs could recover pick 31 or 32 for Maxime Raynaud.

It's time for once to take out the cash and see the big(s).

[spurraider21]

i'd move up for Fleming/Kalkbrenner/Raynaud in that order, and not much else

[poopbox]

It's kind of hard to say who they will and won't play at this moment. This coaching staff has never coached this team. I'm wondering if this is part of the reason they are not doing a real big shake up just yet. The first half of next season is going to tell us a lot.

Very good point. If Mitch is really allowed to be his own coach we basically have 3 brand new coaches, 1 head and 2 lead assistants. They probably legit do want to "see what we have" before deciding what changes to make.

[Trueblood]

I mean I don't even know what kind of big the spurs actually want :rollin

I think we all just assume it will be someone who is a rim protector because that is what they NEED but after listening to Brian Wright press conference after the draft I can't make heads or tails of what the Spurs are actually trying to do .

I think it's greater than a 0% chance that Bismack Biyombo picks up his phone in a week and has 3 missed calls from the Spurs :rollin

Not at all interested in the Spurs taking a big with a second round pick they NEVER play any of their second round picks not named Tre Jones

I don’t really think the spurs have a good grasp on what they need for Wemby. I just read this week about how he wants to have a solid center so he can slide into the 4 but he’s been with Gorbert and Zollins with meh results. The truth is both the French National team and the spurs learned that the team had the best results when he played the 5. If you’re going to move him to the 4 who would complement him? A three point shooting center to spread the floor? But if they’re a shooter their defense lacks. A defensive minded rebounding machine? Clogs up the paint and can’t shoot (which is already a problem for this team). I don’t have an answer and I don’t think they do either.

[T Park]

Did you watch Wrights press conference after the draft? Cause I walked away from that feeling like the spurs don't see backup center as some pressing need. More than a 0% chance you about to get some more Bi in your Yambo :rollin


Cause the spurs have always been forthright and outgoing about what they’ll do in offseasons

[poopbox]

POR and BKN are the two teams with too many centers on their roster… I think we should be paying attention there.

DaRon Sharpe is an RFA, but not BKN has too many C’s… maybe he’s an option?

Free agency hasn't even started and we already down to rationalizing the DaRon Sharpe's of the world :rollin

Ah man. This the type of desperation that usually don't hit until 3 or 4 days into free agency :rollin

I mean shit why not Noah Clowney :rollin

[T Park]

How about Keldon and a second round pick to Boston for Neemias Qeuta?

a solid back up center bring Bassey back as the third center.

trade some second round picks and Barnes to Charlotte for the 33rd pick and draft Reynaud who can play the 4 and 5.

sign Yabusele

Fox, Harper, Wesley
Castle, Vassell, Branham
Sochan, Champangie, Bryant
Yabusele, Raynaud, Mamu
Wemby, Queta, Bassey

Why would you trade Barnes for a second round pick ������

[poopbox]

Cause the spurs have always been forthright and outgoing about what they’ll do in offseasons

Trick question. The Spurs don't do anything in the offseason.

[poopbox]

So I like finding a way to get back to the top of the second round to take Raynaud. Then trade for Portis and agree to give him a $38M/2 extension with the second year being a team option. Trade Vassell and Barnes for MPJ. I also have them signing Trendon Watford, who is a forward with size who has shown some things but had a horrible year last year.

Fox, Castle, Wesley
Harper, Champagnie, Branham
Porter, Johnson, Minix
Sochan, Bryant, Watford
Wembanyama, Portis, Raynaud

They retain Branham and Wesley for further trades, but ideally one of them is replaced by a vet PG who gets bought out during the year. For two-way contracts, I'd want another center, preferably a defensive prospect with size in case of injuries. I'd also want another guard considering they have three expiring players there right now. They actually have pretty good wing and forward depth after this, so maybe doubling up on guards would be a good strategy. I have Castle coming off the bench because I hate him -- or rather because despite both him and Harper being thought of as non-shooters, Harper shoots the ball well enough off the catch. If you aren't trying to run him as your star creator, he can come in and get minutes already.

I think some would like to run Fox, Castle, Bryant, Portis, Wembanyama to really key in on defense and rebounding. Maybe that could work well enough. That second unit would be Harper, Champagnie, Johnson, Porter and Sochan, which while not hopeless seems awkward to build around replacing Champ for Raynaud makes the positions work better, but Max isn't really a defender as far as I have seen, so it might not be the best move in practice If they were to trade in for Fleming instead, the second-unit defense probably wouldn't be an issue. But Harper not having an offensive big to work with in those units might end up not helping his growth.

MPJ from Denver?
Does somebody have a gun to your head?
Blink Twice for yes and Blink 3 times if the gun is pointed somewhere else.

[Ice009]

Didn't some post something here a few days ago saying that the Nuggets tried to trade MPJ all season, but no team would go near him due to his medical records?

[thiste]

Daniel Gafford would be the ideal. Mavs extended him to trade him, it seems, although there are going to be big suitors and I don't think the Spurs will bid heavily.

Aldama is very promising.

LaRavia I have less of a feel for, but yeah.

One of those players. I'd be okay with Kornet. There's a premium on good bigs in the league and the Spurs badly need some.

Gafford would be my ideal too

[vy65]

The other way of looking at it is that 38 doesn't help you move up in the second round at all, because a team selling an early second doesn't want #38 either - they just want out.

So maybe the Spurs decided their probably wouldn't be anyone they like at 38, let's go ahead and get another SRP that a team might like better (because it kicks the can down the road) along with some cash, and if we have to buy into the high 30s, then we have another pick to do so with.

Per Shams: The Minnesota Timberwolves are trading the first pick in tonight’s NBA draft -- No. 31 -- to the Phoenix Suns for No. 36 and two future second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. Suns continue rebuild by moving up to 31 and 41 in draft -- send out 36, 52, 59 and two future seconds.

So much for that idea ....

[Eaglenole2002]

How about Nick Richards as a backup big? He seemed to have some regard in Charlotte. Not sure what happened in Phoenix. Obviously they drafted two bigs so maybe he just stinks.

[TD 21]

They'll probably try Lopez and Horford with the MLE, but the former probably signs with the Warriors and the latter re-signs with the Celtics. A tier down, Capela probably signs with the Lakers and Kornet re-signs with the Celtics.

If they're not going to trade one or multiple of Vassell, Barnes or especially Johnson (who has no place on the current roster), to consolidate or at least balance, then we're probably looking at fringe rotation options/by committee approach, because another surefire rotation player who can't shoot is untenable and Sochan can't play next to a rim runner anyway.

The likes of Nance Jr., Eubanks, Landale, Plumlee, Richards, Reath, Vukcevic, as well as Bassey and Mamukelashvili, are probably on the radar.

[scott]

Per Shams: The Minnesota Timberwolves are trading the first pick in tonight’s NBA draft -- No. 31 -- to the Phoenix Suns for No. 36 and two future second-round picks, sources tell ESPN. Suns continue rebuild by moving up to 31 and 41 in draft -- send out 36, 52, 59 and two future seconds.

So much for that idea ....

Interesting... wouldn't think this would be for one of the C's since they just drafted Maluach and traded for Williams. One of the french kids or Fleming is my guess.

[spurraider21]

Interesting... wouldn't think this would be for one of the C's since they just drafted Maluach and traded for Williams. One of the french kids or Fleming is my guess.
its widely reported they are taking Fleming, including from Gambo himself

[scott]

its widely reported they are taking Fleming, including from Gambo himself

Mucho mahalos

[Darkwaters]

Any interest in Nick Richards from Phoenix? 7'0 center out of Kentucky (27 years old). Phoenix acquired him last January from Charlotte but acquired two more centers last night (and then took Rasheer Fleming). Phoenix has a bunch of new bigs and I'm not sure they have minutes for everybody.

Richards is on the final year of his deal making only 5M. Any interest?

[jjspur]

I know we got 2nd rounder in the next century from Indy for the #38, but we also got cash. Anyone have an idea how much it was, since it was a somewhat early 2nd round pick ?

[cutewizard]

Where are our moves for the bigs?

Procrastination is very bad......

[venitian navigator]

Any interest in Nick Richards from Phoenix? 7'0 center out of Kentucky (27 years old). Phoenix acquired him last January from Charlotte but acquired two more centers last night (and then took Rasheer Fleming). Phoenix has a bunch of new bigs and I'm not sure they have minutes for everybody.

Richards is on the final year of his deal making only 5M. Any interest?

Richards for Malaki works...ideally I would trade Malaki and a pletora of seconds girl Richards and Fleming...

[Darkwaters]

Richards for Malaki works...ideally I would trade Malaki and a pletora of seconds girl Richards and Fleming...

Blake Wesley is probably more realistic. Suns could use another PG and he looks like he might have a future in this league whereas Malaki probably doesn't.

Blake for Richards straight up works. So you can toss a couple seconds in with him to sweeten the pot.

It's a much smaller splash than other options, but it seems viable and would help the team. This is the team that so desperately needed a Center we ended up starting Bismack Biyombo last year after all.

[Mr. Body]

Where are our moves for the bigs?

Procrastination is very bad......

Free agency doesn't start for four days.

[picnroll]

Priority 1 sign Aldama.

[Chinook]

Priority 1 is backup center. They literally don't have one on the roster right now.

[Dverde]

How about Nick Richards as a backup big? He seemed to have some regard in Charlotte. Not sure what happened in Phoenix. Obviously they drafted two bigs so maybe he just stinks.

I like Richards. A red flag to me is how quickly Phoenix moved off him. I know he was mostly trade filler, but they kicked the tires with a need at that position then traded for broken Mark Williams.

[Dverde]

Priority 1 sign Aldama.
Isn’t he restricted? Memphis should want to keep him.

[Dverde]

I like Yabusele. He has proven chemistry with Wemby and made 38% from 3 point line.

[Mr. Body]

I like Richards. A red flag to me is how quickly Phoenix moved off him. I know he was mostly trade filler, but they kicked the tires with a need at that position then traded for broken Mark Williams.

Richards iirc is a chucklehead. I don't think the Spurs will bother.

[picnroll]

Priority 1 is backup center. They literally don't have one on the roster right now.

I said priority 1 big is Aldama. I didn’t say Aldama is the only big the Spurs should sign. There are a handful of inexpensive “seasoned” big that can pick up the minutes that are needed if Wemby, Aldama, who does play some C for the Grizzlies, or even Sochan at times fill in as center.

Aldama is a great, great compliment to Wemby, playing on the foor with or without Wemby who’s just entering his prime, could play many minutes with Wemby, is smart, a good shooter from three levels who can space the floor, effective rebounder and gets his share off steals. He’s not going to shut down the perimeter but is a effective defender particularly from the weak side and if he got a little stronger would be an even more effective defender. Like I said he’s the one I’d target as long term versatile big PF/C which he’s considered. I’d then get a low priced, experienced, past his prime big to fill in the other as the other big for the remaining limited minutes to give you a few fouls against the ADs, Embids Jokers of the world. There are a few of them to choose from. Maybe eventually you invest in a more permanent BIG in the next year or twos drafts or do what the Spurs did sometimes in Duncan, Parker and Manu’s year of picking up relatively inexpensive, relatively journeymen. But for now target 1 is Aldama, fingers crossed.

[Darkwaters]

Richards iirc is a chucklehead. I don't think the Spurs will bother.

I'm not familiar with the player. I just saw his team picked up two other Centers and figured he might be on his way out.

Not sure what a "chucklehead" is precisely, but it doesn't sound good, lol

[Darkwaters]

I said priority 1 big is Aldama. I didn’t say Aldama is the only big the Spurs should sign. There are a handful of inexpensive “seasoned” big that can pick up the minutes that are needed if Wemby, Aldama, who does play some C for the Grizzlies, or even Sochan at times fill in as center.

Aldama is a great, great compliment to Wemby, playing on the foor with or without Wemby who’s just entering his prime, could play many minutes with Wemby, is smart, a good shooter from three levels who can space the floor, effective rebounder and gets his share off steals. He’s not going to shut down the perimeter but is a effective defender particularly from the weak side and if he got a little stronger would be an even more effective defender. Like I said he’s the one I’d target as long term versatile big PF/C which he’s considered. I’d then get a low priced, experienced, past his prime big to fill in the other as the other big for the remaining limited minutes to give you a few fouls against the ADs, Embids Jokers of the world. There are a few of them to choose from. Maybe eventually you invest in a more permanent BIG in the next year or twos drafts or do what the Spurs did sometimes in Duncan, Parker and Manu’s year of picking up relatively inexpensive, relatively journeymen. But for now target 1 is Aldama, fingers crossed.

We will likely be priced out if all we have is the MLE. He likely signs for more than that. And I imagine if he DID agree to that deal then Memphis would just match and keep him anyway.

Would probably have to look into a S&T to get him. Would Memphis want Devin Vassell, Sochan or Keldon?

[picnroll]

We will likely be priced out if all we have is the MLE. He likely signs for more than that. And I imagine if he DID agree to that deal then Memphis would just match and keep him anyway.

Would probably have to look into a S&T to get him. Would Memphis want Devin Vassell, Sochan or Keldon?
Probably, Edey being out 1/2 the year doesn’t make it any less likely they won’t try to sign him. If I were Brooklyn I’d put a nice fat contract on his plate.

[scott]

Isn’t he restricted? Memphis should want to keep him.

There was a report that MEM wanted to S&T him.

He’s my favorite possible (known) acquisition target… but I’m not sure if the Spurs will actually rate him.

[024]

What's the latest on Kornet? Sounds like Boston wants to retain but needs to shed more salary due to being hardcapped by the second apron. Would they be able to match 13m/yr (which is what Adams received)?

Signing Kornet for the MLE and Yubusele for the BAE seems like the most ideal route. Then the minimum for a third string center.

[spurraider21]

I like Richards. A red flag to me is how quickly Phoenix moved off him. I know he was mostly trade filler, but they kicked the tires with a need at that position then traded for broken Mark Williams.
Richards is a capable backup center who has continuously be thrust into starting roles. He's had to start a ton for Charlotte because Mark Williams kept getting hurt, and he had to start for Phoenix because they inexplicably traded for him with the purpose of starting him.

He is also on a 5 mil expiring deal, which is nice in that its cheap this year, but i imagine he gets a bit more as a free agent and then we have to re-address the question in a year without a developmental center in the pipeline

[spurraider21]

What's the latest on Kornet? Sounds like Boston wants to retain but needs to shed more salary due to being hardcapped by the second apron. Would they be able to match 13m/yr (which is what Adams received)?

Signing Kornet for the MLE and Yubusele for the BAE seems like the most ideal route. Then the minimum for a third string center.
i think its clear boston wants to retain kornet, i think the precursor there is them moving off the Hauser money

[024]

i think its clear boston wants to retain kornet, i think the precursor there is them moving off the Hauser money

Would be surprising to see if that happens. Given Tatum is out for next year and Hauser being on a very reasonable long term contract, I would value Hauser more than Kornet if I were the Celtics. Would be a hard choice there.

Although the Celtics could get draft assets back by offloading Hauser while they would have to let Kornet go for free.

[Biggems]

Apparently, we are allergic to bigs or something. Maybe a tall person stole Wrights lunch money in school. I know we have Victor, but aside from him, we have diarrhea. We need size.

[Mr. Body]

Apparently, we are allergic to bigs or something. Maybe a tall person stole Wrights lunch money in school. I know we have Victor, but aside from him, we have diarrhea. We need size.

Too bad the off season is over.

[T Park]

Apparently, we are allergic to bigs or something. Maybe a tall person stole Wrights lunch money in school. I know we have Victor, but aside from him, we have diarrhea. We need size.

is it October already?

[spurs10]

Monday at 6:00 PM 6/30 we can start wheelin' and dealin,' Official time being July 6 to finalize.

[TD 21]

The absolute high end option I could see, is Bitadze. The Magic don't have much financial flexibility, are out a lot of picks and have depth at C with Carter Jr., Wagner and Isaac (granted, they're all flight risks durability wise and the latter isn't a true C, but they've increasingly played him at it in recent seasons).

Branham or Wesley plus a couple of 2nds could entice them.

[Biggems]

Too bad the off season is over.

Yeah I know it is still early. I was just hoping for a big in the draft. Now, it is time for FA and trades.

[kobyz]

Wanted Broome, too bad FO don't believe in second round jems and selling away picks

[bigfan]

Maybe we can finally sign Javtokas! ;)

[ace3g]

Maybe we can finally sign Javtokas! ;)

DKxPZ5asIvy

[Ice009]

Wow, the guy's still got it! ;)

[mystargtr34]

Wow, the guy's still got it! ;)

Yep very sexy. And his girl is not bad either.

[mystargtr34]

So he’s married to Michelle Beadle

[mudyez]

The absolute high end option I could see, is Bitadze. The Magic don't have much financial flexibility, are out a lot of picks and have depth at C with Carter Jr., Wagner and Isaac (granted, they're all flight risks durability wise and the latter isn't a true C, but they've increasingly played him at it in recent seasons).

Branham or Wesley plus a couple of 2nds could entice them.

I wonder if Isaac might be an option too...and is he even sane? Was he just vaxination hesitant or is he a pure flat earth trumper?

[The Truth #6]

I'm not saying keep Biyombo. I'm saying don't let him go unless we get someone better. Shouldn't be hard to do, but not sure what their priorities are.

[keithington1]

What player build do you think they need for backup 5?

[onechance87]

What player build do you think they need for backup 5?

The team seemed to click and play decent with biyombo.So maybe his type but younger and bigger.Not sure
who in free agency resembles him.

[Trueblood]

I wonder if Isaac might be an option too...and is he even sane? Was he just vaxination hesitant or is he a pure flat earth trumper?

His political and religious beliefs are pretty opposite of the bell curve from pop but in line with Holt. I don’t think they would keep him away and I’ve read that he will probably be available, but I don’t think he’s a good fit. He put on weight to move to the 5 last year and it slowed him down. His numbers were down across the board and what made him so effective before (his speed and reaction time) was diminished. He’ll probably cut weight to go back to the 4 which doesn’t make him an ideal candidate for a backup center.

[Degoat]

I’m kinda intrigued by Isaiah Jackson as a reclamation project (ruptured Achilles at the start of last season) however I assume the spurs would rather just continue rolling with Bassey as a project. Mason Plumlee, Kevin Looney, Larry Nance seem realistic

Im afraid Horford stays with the C’s, Lopez goes ring chasing, Aldama/Kortnet gets a bag from somewhere.

trade market makes some sense I’m just not too sure who will be available

[onechance87]

I’m kinda intrigued by Isaiah Jackson as a reclamation project (ruptured Achilles at the start of last season) however I assume the spurs would rather just continue rolling with Bassey as a project. Mason Plumlee, Kevin Looney, Larry Nance seem realistic

Im afraid Horford stays with the C’s, Lopez goes ring chasing, Aldama/Kortnet gets a bag from somewhere.

trade market makes some sense I’m just not too sure who will be available

If this team sticks with bassey.Then we arent trying to win or improve.

[Degoat]

If this team sticks with bassey.Then we arent trying to win or improve.

I agree, if the Porzingis rumor were true about the spurs having interest then they must be searching the trade market for a big tbh.

[paperboy77]

Go get Wendel Carter, Goga Bitadze, Vucevik, Nurcic, even Isaac. However,... we are just stupid to throw that #38 pick so soon. I think Spurs media should question that move and mention some good centers were still on the board. At least mention that they appear to need a center, yet they punted the opportunity. Of course, the SA media are a bunch of fanboys and wouldn't dare.

[cutewizard]

Free agency doesn't start for four days.

-------------------------------

Thanks good Sir

I am worried, but perhaps not warranted, after all our Spurs FO is known for quality management......

Hope so

[cutewizard]

I was wondering if the Spurs could also update our ancient-looking official Spurs website

There are a lot of designs and website designers out there, they could do an excellent job

What kind of website is that, have they not noticed??

And perhaps they could also install a fan response/chat/feedback section within it...?

Just random thoughts

[Dverde]

Thoughts on Ayton nowadays? He’s expiring and the Blazers have many Centers. I remember him being a defensive presence with some decent offensive. Monty was very critical about his drive to be great, but we just need him to fill a void of a big man to hold down the defense when Wemby sit and hold his own on offense.

[RC_Drunkford]

I agree, if the Porzingis rumor were true about the spurs having interest then they must be searching the trade market for a big tbh.

Don Harris said they were leading the sweepstakes the day before until the Hawks came with a better offer.


Thoughts on Ayton nowadays? He’s expiring and the Blazers have many Centers. I remember him being a defensive presence with some decent offensive. Monty was very critical about his drive to be great, but we just need him to fill a void of a big man to hold down the defense when Wemby sit and hold his own on offense.

You want to trade for a guy who's more concerned about playing video games all night than basketball?

[Guru of Nothing]

Ayton seems like a very unlikely Spur, if only because he's assuredly gone after one season. In this upcoming hybrid season (of developing a lot of youth while trying to win now) I'd much rather go after someone who could potentially be part of the roster for years to come.

[Bruno]

Olynyk could be good target if Spurs can't get Lopez or Capela in FA.

Something like Branham + Wesley + one or 2 second round pick should be way enough to get him from Wizards.

[LeBowen]

If we're considering slow veterans, Vucevic is by far the best option.
Yes, he's bad defensively, but he'd be our third best player on offense and would easily dominate every backup big enough to make a positive impact despite his defense.
Expiring contract, we can easily get him for Keldon and maybe Wesley if Bulls want him.

I still think we should go for someone who would enable us to play at a high pace even when Wemby sits, but if we're looking at veterans, he's the best option.

[Chinook]

I said priority 1 big is Aldama.

And I'm saying, no, they need a center. They have plenty of PFs. Finding a center that doesn't crater the defense when Victor goes to the bench is really the only true priority right now. That's where the money should go. Then they can also sign an "inexpensive, seasoned big" to be the third-stringer so they're not back in this position when some guy can't go.

Aldama would maybe be a luxury, but center is the position where they're hurting and have been hurting for a few years now. Guys like Sochan and Barnes are going to play, and they'll play PF when they do. Johnson and Bryant will likely to minutes there too. The team likely is not going to play big like so fans want. The teams' strength is their guards right now, and they will play lineups where Castle and Vassell play SF. "Upgrading" to Aldama should not be the priority.

[Mugen]

BroLo should be gettable especially with the Mitch connection tbh.

[onechance87]

And I'm saying, no, they need a center. They have plenty of PFs. Finding a center that doesn't crater the defense when Victor goes to the bench is really the only true priority right now. That's where the money should go. Then they can also sign an "inexpensive, seasoned big" to be the third-stringer so they're not back in this position when some guy can't go.

Aldama would maybe be a luxury, but center is the position where they're hurting and have been hurting for a few years now. Guys like Sochan and Barnes are going to play, and they'll play PF when they do. Johnson and Bryant will likely to minutes there too. The team likely is not going to play big like so fans want. The teams' strength is their guards right now, and they will play lineups where Castle and Vassell play SF. "Upgrading" to Aldama should not be the priority.

yup a center who defends and rebounds should be the first player we go after.

[CGD]

Ayton seems like a very unlikely Spur, if only because he's assuredly gone after one season. In this upcoming hybrid season (of developing a lot of youth while trying to win now) I'd much rather go after someone who could potentially be part of the roster for years to come.

They have Ayton, TimeLord, and the Chinese kid, and seemingly a mandate to “got for it” next year.

What do we think it would take to get Clingan from them?

[LeBowen]

They have Ayton, TimeLord, and the Chinese kid, and seemingly a mandate to “got for it” next year.

What do we think it would take to get Clingan from them?

Clingan isn't going anywhere, he'd cost too much for someone who would never start for us.
Ayton is on his way out, Chinese kid is a long-term project and Timelord isn't an NBA player anymore after all the injuries.
They also have Doup Reath, but he's not good enough.

[SpursFan86]

1938994129842696469

[Robz4000]

:pop: we like what we have

[Guru of Nothing]

BroLo should be gettable especially with the Mitch connection tbh.

I kinda wonder if Lopez could have been the plan all along. It's easy to connect dots with the Mitch connection, and maybe that explains punting on the 38.

Maybe bring him in on 2/40 with second year a team option. Would still love to see the team throw a cheap dart at young prospect, regardless.

Anyway, Lopez checks just about every box but timeline ... then again, if he's effectively here on a one year contract, I'd say he aligns with line perfectly, if you stop and consider this year's development schedule is overflowing as it is. Might be better to spend next year's 1st on the next Sorber.

[LeBowen]

Conspiracy theory, but I don't think Bryant would've taken #11 if there was anything going on with Lopez.

[ChumpDumper]

I’m kinda intrigued by Isaiah Jackson as a reclamation project (ruptured Achilles at the start of last season) however I assume the spurs would rather just continue rolling with Bassey as a project. Mason Plumlee, Kevin Looney, Larry Nance seem realistic

Im afraid Horford stays with the C’s, Lopez goes ring chasing, Aldama/Kortnet gets a bag from somewhere.

trade market makes some sense I’m just not too sure who will be available

I like the idea of Jackson if he's still got springs. I'm higher on Yabusele than most; I feel he plays with a real élan when games actually matter.

[CGD]

1938994129842696469

Oof, speaks volumes about the C free agency market.

[RC_Drunkford]

I wonder what Ainge wants for Walker Kessler. He‘s on the last year of his rookie deal and extension eligible

[TD 21]

I wonder if Isaac might be an option too...and is he even sane? Was he just vaxination hesitant or is he a pure flat earth trumper?

I wouldn't touch his made of glass, MAGA ass with a 10, 000 foot poll and I doubt the Spurs would either.

He's another option that randomly popped into my head: Branham or Wesley + 2nd for (Jalen) Smith or Branham and Wesley for Smith and Carter.

The Bulls have financial flexibility, guard depth and an aversion to draft capital, so this one is dicey. But if they inexplicably intend to retain Vucevic, they might prefer a more inexpensive third C, since Collins usurped him last season.

[spurs10]

I like the idea of Jackson if he's still got springs. I'm higher on Yabusele than most; I feel he plays with a real élan when games actually matter. Yabusele has a lot of fight in him, wonder if he can board.

[exstatic]

Yabusele has a lot of fight in him, wonder if he can board.

Career TRB% just under 12, so not fantastic.

[jesterbobman]

Making a rough guess of positions, I'd get to something like this as the construction by position, with a line for FA / Trade targets copied below.



Position
PG
Combo G
SG
SG/SF
SF
F
PF
PF/C
C


Current Roster
Fox

Harper
Wesley
Branham
Castle
Vassell
Keldon
Champagnie
Barnes
Bryant
Sochan

Wemby


Potential returnees
McLaughlin





Mamu

Bassey


FA / TradeOptions





Laravia
Aldama
Naz Reid
J Collins
Capela,
Kornet
BroLo
...




Barnes and Bryant can play PF minutes, but it really puts in perspective how weak the Backup C minutes are. That's the most important position.
I was on Clingan Island as a good use of #8 pre draft last year, or Sorber this year, as not losing the backup minutes by a ton is important - With the clearest example being the Sixers losing playoff series even when winning the Embiid minutes by approximately 5000. Transforming a big loss into a neutral is a huge bump in team quality.

I think there's still a gap at PF, but C is most important. I would be in on John Collins as a value play if it costs Keldon, Branham + a second, but there's still a C hole - Collins can fill in in a pinch, but I think he's a 90% PF, rather than a true PF/C Hybrid.
Guys above, Wendell, Rob Williams...would all be fine options, depending on the plan for the defense, and whether they want a pure drop/ Centrefield big, or a more mobile / switch big, and if they prioritise defensive skills or offensive skills at C. But a C upgrade is priority #1.

[exstatic]

Making a rough guess of positions, I'd get to something like this as the construction by position, with a line for FA / Trade targets copied below.



PG
Combo G
SG
SG/SF
SF
F
PF
PF/C
C


Fox


Harper
Wesley
Branham
Castle
Vassell
Keldon
Champagnie
Barnes
Bryant
Sochan

Wemby


McLaughlin





Mamu

Bassey







Laravia
Aldama
Naz Reid

J Collins
Capela,
Kornet
BroLo
...




Barnes and Bryant can play PF minutes, but it really puts in perspective how weak the Backup C minutes are. That's the most important position.
I was on Clingan Island as a good use of #8 pre draft last year, or Sorber this year, as not losing the backup minutes by a ton is important - With the clearest example being the Sixers losing playoff series even when winning the Embiid minutes by approximately 5000. Transforming a big loss into a neutral is a huge bump in team quality.

I think there's still a gap at PF, but C is most important. I would be in on John Collins as a value play if it costs Keldon, Branham + a second, but there's still a C hole - Collins can fill in in a pinch, but I think he's a 90% PF, rather than a true PF/C Hybrid.
Guys above, Wendell, Rob Williams...would all be fine options, depending on the plan for the defense, and whether they want a pure drop/ Centrefield big, or a more mobile / switch big, and if they prioritise defensive skills or offensive skills at C. But a C upgrade is priority #1.

You’re going to bring back McLaughlin, but strip him of his number and give it to a rookie?

[Dejounte]

I wouldn't touch his made of glass, MAGA ass with a 10, 000 foot poll and I doubt the Spurs would either.

He's another option that randomly popped into my head: Branham or Wesley + 2nd for (Jalen) Smith or Branham and Wesley for Smith and Carter.

The Bulls have financial flexibility, guard depth and an aversion to draft capital, so this one is dicey. But if they inexplicably intend to retain Vucevic, they might prefer a more inexpensive third C, since Collins usurped him last season.
Isaac the kind of guy who would defend Michael Tait’s crimes and say everyone should move on because he repented. Nasty people

[spurs10]

Career TRB% just under 12, so not fantastic. Thanks, seems average though.

[RC_Drunkford]

1938799997371179236

[BackHome]

Any good Centers in Europe we could bring over?

[exstatic]

Thanks, seems average though.

For a SF.

[Ice009]

I just realized Brook Lopez wears #11, so I guess that means they're definitely not going after him if giving that number to Carter Bryant already.

[J_Paco]

Oof, speaks volumes about the C free agency market.

He is a terrible option as a full-time starter - as Phoenix found out - but I would gladly take him as Wemby's primary backup. I think Malaki's contract would match & would be expiring to boot. Throw in a 2nd round pick to sweeten the deal and one problem is solved.

And maybe tender an offer to Vukcevic as well - is he a restricted or unrestricted FA? - since he can play some 4 and stretches the floor more.

[Ice009]

How come Vukcevic has only played 10 and 35 games for the Wizards the past two seasons? Has he been injured? Doesn't sound too good if he wasn't and couldn't break the rotation for a terrible Wizards team. I don't know anything about him, so just asking.

[J_Paco]

How come Vukcevic has only played 10 and 35 games for the Wizards the past two seasons? Has he been injured? Doesn't sound too good if he wasn't and couldn't break the rotation for a terrible Wizards team. I don't know anything about him, so just asking.

I believe they didn't bring him in from Europe until the tail end of the '23 - '24 season, so that limited him in his rookie season, and he didn't crack the (pitiful) Wizards rotation until January of last season.

He's a guy with limited NBA game time, but could develop into a solid 4th or 5th big.

[Ice009]

Thanks. That doesn't sound too bad then. Have you watched him play? Is he decent?

[Trueblood]

I kinda wonder if Lopez could have been the plan all along. It's easy to connect dots with the Mitch connection, and maybe that explains punting on the 38.

Maybe bring him in on 2/40 with second year a team option. Would still love to see the team throw a cheap dart at young prospect, regardless.

Anyway, Lopez checks just about every box but timeline ... then again, if he's effectively here on a one year contract, I'd say he aligns with line perfectly, if you stop and consider this year's development schedule is overflowing as it is. Might be better to spend next year's 1st on the next Sorber.

I’d like it but smart money says he’s headed to the Lakers if he ops out.

[SpursBills]

I am all in on Kornet for the MLE if for no other reason than rooting for this goofy ass dude would be fun as hell. Also his impact metrics are excellent but that's more of a secondary reason.

https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/1jf8lqh/jaylen_brown_on_his_favorite_luke_kornet_story/

[TimmyBuckets]

Can someone explain how we can sign both Yabu and Korne potentially? Kornet for most of the MLE, and Yabu for the rest? Can we afford Mamu and Kornet, and forget Yabu?

[scott]

Can someone explain how we can sign both Yabu and Korne potentially? Kornet for most of the MLE, and Yabu for the rest? Can we afford Mamu and Kornet, and forget Yabu?

Kornet - MLE
Yabu - BAE

That's the easiest path.

[TD 21]

Can someone explain how we can sign both Yabu and Korne potentially? Kornet for most of the MLE, and Yabu for the rest? Can we afford Mamu and Kornet, and forget Yabu?

They'd have to sign and trade for one to afford both. Even then, the Celtics or 76ers would have to accept Branham and/or Wesley plus a 2nd (given their financial situations, makes no sense), which would mean the Spurs would be spending lavishly on two backup bigs while having a rotational logjam, with 11 players.

Not happening. Kornet probably re-signs with the Celtics or someone who can offer a similar role at more money, while Yabusele probably signs here and they go cheap at backup C.

[DAF86]

yeah but maybe they dont care

Maybe, that's why they are the Blazers afterall. :lol

[koriwhat]

Barlow is available.

[Mr. Body]

So is Lonnie.

[duncan2150]

Brooklyn declining the option on Sharpe.

Not a popular option but watching a lot of Brooklyn last year : he's a very good back up big.

Very active, strong, understand where to be. A really good option imo.

[exstatic]

Barlow is available.

He sucks, and supposedly there was a level of friction with Wemby.

[Mr. Body]

Brooklyn declining the option on Sharpe.

Not a popular option but watching a lot of Brooklyn last year : he's a very good back up big.

Very active, strong, understand where to be. A really good option imo.

They're gonna resign him, likely, just needed to clear the hold for now.

[Ice009]

He sucks, and supposedly there was a level of friction with Wemby.

What was the friction about? Don't remember hearing anything about that.

[exstatic]

What was the friction about? Don't remember hearing anything about that.

Just some vague stuff when he wasn’t signed to another contract. When you don’t mesh well with the franchise guy, there’s only one way that ends.

[kxs783kms]

The Spurs have been telling us for a while that basketball is now positionless. I don't know if they even see another big as a necessity at this point. Running a 3 guard lineup sounds exciting until you're getting outrebounded by 20+ boards every game.

[SpursFan86]

The Spurs have been telling us for a while that basketball is now positionless. I don't know if they even see another big as a necessity at this point. Running a 3 guard lineup sounds exciting until you're getting outrebounded by 20+ boards every game.

This would be pretty concerning. Do they think that it was just some weird coincidence that our defense totally crumbled every time Wemby wasn’t on the court? Doesn’t exactly take a great basketball mind to see that our lack of rim protection was a major issue :lol

[Gandalf]

I don’t follow the Sixers; why is Yabusele better than Mamu? They can both shoot 3s, but is he a better defender?

[TimmyBuckets]

I don’t follow the Sixers; why is Yabusele better than Mamu? They can both shoot 3s, but is he a better defender?

He isn' imo. If they an afford to retain Mamu and get Kornet they should.

[cutewizard]

Guys, what are the chances we can get Kornet?

[TimmyBuckets]

Guys, what are the chances we can get Kornet?

What other teams can offer him the full MLE, or are willing to? Spurs, at worst, would offer him that, and he'd take it in a heartbeat. If another team offers that then that's his choice, but he's not a starter anywhere, and Spurs are the most well-respected organization in the league. Plus he has roots in Texas. I would say decently high.

[Spurs Homer]

Spurs got this….

Milutinov ftw!

[cutewizard]

What other teams can offer him the full MLE, or are willing to? Spurs, at worst, would offer him that, and he'd take it in a heartbeat. If another team offers that then that's his choice, but he's not a starter anywhere, and Spurs are the most well-respected organization in the league. Plus he has roots in Texas. I would say decently high.
-----------------------------------------------

Thanks Sir

if we can get him, we'll have the best offseason in years.....

[Chinook]

So is Ayton the guy? He's probably the best player available for the MLE now, and most of the trades for centers available now should be available during the season if this signing fails. It's a gamble, and I'd hope the Spurs bring in a playable center to be the third-stringer. I do like the idea in theory, though in practice Ayton's never had the will to be the player his talent let him be. Lakers will probably get him, though, with the Spurs not even showing interest. The Spurs haven't been completely against some character reclamations, though Gay is probably the most recent, and that was in 2017. But it would be hard to see Mitch being the guy who can get through to DAA. He could be a great presence in the paint, but he's "Muh Touches" without the skill to pull it off.

[TimmyBuckets]

So is Ayton the guy? He's probably the best player available for the MLE now, and most of the trades for centers available now should be available during the season if this signing fails. It's a gamble, and I'd hope the Spurs bring in a playable center to be the third-stringer. But I do like the idea in theory. Lakers will probably get him, though, with the Spurs not even showing interest.

He was make 35 million a year. How can Spurs afford him with the MLE? Legit question lol idk how this buyout crap works.

[Manu20]

With the Ayton buy out I think he goes to the lakers and that would mean one less suitor for Brook Lopez. Kornet would not be a bad pick up as he seems like a smart player that makes winning plays but my first choice would be Lopez. Interesting few days ahead!

[Chinook]

He was make 35 million a year. How can Spurs afford him with the MLE? Legit question lol idk how this buyout crap works.

He's a free agent. The team can just sign him. And because it's a buyout, there shouldn't be any set-off to reduce the amount of actual money Ayton gets from his next contract.

[rjv]

Ayton has always bitched about not getting enough touches wherever he’s been. I doubt he’d even consider the Spurs.

[mystargtr34]

Yea there’s no way Ayton chooses San Antonio for a backup role vs Lakers starting role. Wouldn’t surprise me if Silvers greasy fingers are on this as well.

The positive for the Spurs is it’s one team out of the running for Kornet, BroLo, Capela.

[TimmyBuckets]

Yea there’s no way Ayton chooses San Antonio for a backup role vs Lakers starting role. Wouldn’t surprise me if Silvers greasy fingers are on this as well.

The positive for the Spurs is it’s one team out of the running for Kornet, BroLo, Capela.

Yes and yes!

[spurraider21]

i know ayton's been a bummer but i still feel like im the last guy who thinks he can play, just cant be coutned on a starter. also, if his contract has offset language, cant he just sign for dirt cheap and not lose any money anyway?

with that said, if he wants to play a 1 year deal to rehab his value and get one more contract, catching lobs from luka/bron is going be a lot more fruitful than being a backup toi wemby

[Mr. Body]

Ayton was a negative player last year. There's a reason the Blazers are cutting him, because no one wants to trade for him and no one wants him around. Fine if the Lakers want him. He's better than the nothing they have, but his personality is toxic and he's a negative on defense.

[spurraider21]

Ayton was a negative player last year. There's a reason the Blazers are cutting him, because no one wants to trade for him and no one wants him around. Fine if the Lakers want him. He's better than the nothing they have, but his personality is toxic and he's a negative on defense.
well nobody wants him at 30 mil. its always relative

[ZeusWillJudge]

The Spurs can get Brooke Lopez, and I think he would jump at coming here for his last couple of years. He's not what they need long term, but he's just about exactly what they need for this interim period. The only other likely landing spot is the Lakers.

They could land him and Jabari Walker. Walker played about 25% of his time last season as a small ball C. He's a beast on the boards, he revived his 3P% this past season, and he's an adequate defender except against true bigs, which wouldn't be his role anyway. He's a hustle guy. And as a bonus, he's a player who would automatically get better on a real team.

Behind that they need one more legitimate big body. Keep Biyombo for that.

There is nobody that the Spurs can actually get this year that would push them further than that. Next year, if a difference-maker big can be had, move Lopez to the Biyombo role. And IF a legit big man is available at the deadline, you move some contracts/picks to get him, and jettison Biyombo early, with Lopez as the backup.

Do Kornet or Yabusele really excite you? They shouldn't. I know the Wemby connection to Yabusele, but a combination of Lopez and Walker would provide some much-needed perimeter shooting right now, as well as some much-needed physicality.

[RC_Drunkford]

the problem with Ayton is that he stays up all night to play video games and is more interested in that than basketball

[k830713]

Nurkić ?? Maybe he will be bought out.

[Dejounte]

Kornet plays the part of a rim running big nicely. Sign him, build up value for players you don’t intend to keep, then find your future starting forward from the draft or from trading your assets. No need to get everyone long term here all at once, especially when there are probably better players available in the future.

[RC_Drunkford]

Nurkić ?? Maybe he will be bought out.

hell no

[jesterbobman]

Kornet would be great.

Big thing that's really important for role players - his lowlights aren't bad. He won't have awesome dunks in traffic, beat a double from 15 and draw help, rise 3 feet above the rim (does dunk, he gets up and finishes), and show off awesome dribble moves...but really good block and rebound rates, solid in controlling the ball - a nearly 4:1 assist: turnover ratio, and effective at scoring on basic plays.

[Guru of Nothing]

Love the Luke Kornet highlights.

bIqtmo-XLvA

[clampi]

well nobody wants him at 30 mil. its always relative

Even at the minimum I dont want that guy: he told us from the jump what was his plan and perfectly executed it lol. He never really loved the sport and dgaf about winning
He's the perfect anti Spurhttps://pbs.twimg.com/media/Guqfmn3WIAAVFw5?format=jpg&name=mediumhttps://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuqfmnLWAAARUO5?format=jpg&name=medium

[Mnky]

The Spurs can get Brooke Lopez, and I think he would jump at coming here for his last couple of years. He's not what they need long term, but he's just about exactly what they need for this interim period. The only other likely landing spot is the Lakers.

They could land him and Jabari Walker. Walker played about 25% of his time last season as a small ball C. He's a beast on the boards, he revived his 3P% this past season, and he's an adequate defender except against true bigs, which wouldn't be his role anyway. He's a hustle guy. And as a bonus, he's a player who would automatically get better on a real team.

Behind that they need one more legitimate big body. Keep Biyombo for that.

There is nobody that the Spurs can actually get this year that would push them further than that. Next year, if a difference-maker big can be had, move Lopez to the Biyombo role. And IF a legit big man is available at the deadline, you move some contracts/picks to get him, and jettison Biyombo early, with Lopez as the backup.

Do Kornet or Yabusele really excite you? They shouldn't. I know the Wemby connection to Yabusele, but a combination of Lopez and Walker would provide some much-needed perimeter shooting right now, as well as some much-needed physicality.

Yabuselle with Wemby did pretty well against team USA. Not sure why it wouldn't excite people to get a frontcourt that plays well together?

Kornet also played extremely well in the playoffs. Showed he's a legitimate player in the games that count. I'd love to get them both. Would be an A+ off season addressing the biggest needs with quality talent yet Cheap cap players.

[Ice009]

the problem with Ayton is that he stays up all night to play video games and is more interested in that than basketball

Wow. Didn't realize that was his issue. I thought he had a lack of motivation/love for the game. Didn't realize he cares more about games? Any idea what sort of games he plays? I wonder if he can shift his focus back to basketball, and if so, how good he can be.

You guys think the Spurs will at least check in with him? Weren't the Spurs interested in drafting him, or was it pretty much Luka only they were interested in that draft if they were able to get that second pick from Sacramento?

[jermaine]

Luke Hornet is a starter on any other team. It just shows how stacked the C's team was. Sign him noooooow

[SpursBills]

Luke Kornet and his chad 34 dominating Brook Lopez and his scrub ass 25:

https://youtube.com/shorts/z1wG8fcCrxg?si=13aWVmiJ5rgFUOoR

But in all seriousness, I think both would be fine, my preference is Kornet bc I’m worried about Brook hitting the decline of his age curve, but Brook on a short term deal is better than many other options

[kxs783kms]

This would be pretty concerning. Do they think that it was just some weird coincidence that our defense totally crumbled every time Wemby wasn’t on the court? Doesn’t exactly take a great basketball mind to see that our lack of rim protection was a major issue :lol

They probably saw how the Thunder guarded Jokić in that last playoff game and figure they can do the same. The only good 3pt shooters on our team are most of our bigs, so maybe they think Fox, Castle and Harper will get all of the rebounds lol

[The Truth #6]

The Spurs can get Brooke Lopez, and I think he would jump at coming here for his last couple of years. He's not what they need long term, but he's just about exactly what they need for this interim period. The only other likely landing spot is the Lakers.

They could land him and Jabari Walker. Walker played about 25% of his time last season as a small ball C. He's a beast on the boards, he revived his 3P% this past season, and he's an adequate defender except against true bigs, which wouldn't be his role anyway. He's a hustle guy. And as a bonus, he's a player who would automatically get better on a real team.

Behind that they need one more legitimate big body. Keep Biyombo for that.

There is nobody that the Spurs can actually get this year that would push them further than that. Next year, if a difference-maker big can be had, move Lopez to the Biyombo role. And IF a legit big man is available at the deadline, you move some contracts/picks to get him, and jettison Biyombo early, with Lopez as the backup.

Do Kornet or Yabusele really excite you? They shouldn't. I know the Wemby connection to Yabusele, but a combination of Lopez and Walker would provide some much-needed perimeter shooting right now, as well as some much-needed physicality.

I think Lopez and Walker are solid ideas. I don't think Yabusele is bad per se, but I love that Lopez and Walker are good outside shooters, which we desperately need. I'm not sure what Walker's availability is, but they should be able to make that happen, I imagine.

[The Truth #6]

Wow. Didn't realize that was his issue. I thought he had a lack of motivation/love for the game. Didn't realize he cares more about games? Any idea what sort of games he plays? I wonder if he can shift his focus back to basketball, and if so, how good he can be.

You guys think the Spurs will at least check in with him? Weren't the Spurs interested in drafting him, or was it pretty much Luka only they were interested in that draft if they were able to get that second pick from Sacramento?

He reminds me of a worse version of Andrew Bynum. Lots of talent. But eventually burned his bridges.

[Ice009]

I think Lopez and Walker are solid ideas. I don't think Yabusele is bad per se, but I love that Lopez and Walker are good outside shooters, which we desperately need. I'm not sure what Walker's availability is, but they should be able to make that happen, I imagine.

It doesn't sound like a lot of you watched the Olympics/France in the Olympics. I've never even heard of this Jabari Walker guy until I looked him up right now. He might be a good player, but where are you getting he's a good shooter from? He shot under 30% from three point range his first two seasons, and in his third season, he's at 38%, but that is off of 1.2 attempts per game. The sample size is too small. Yabusele shot 32% from three point range his first two seasons with the Celtics at a similar attempts/sample size, and then last season with Philadelphia, he also shot 38% like Walker, but with over triple the three point attempts as Walker, so a much larger sample size. What are you basing Walker is a good three point shooter from? Have you watched him extensively?

With Yabusele, I saw him help drag France to the gold medal game. If it wasn't for him, France don't make the gold medal game. He stepped up when most of them were playing like shit (I'm not saying he's the only reason they made it, but a big part of it). He played better than Victor in half of those games. Lebron tried intimidating and pushing him around in the gold medal game, but he was having none of that. He's proven to me that he can play in big games. I trust him a lot more than I trust a guy called Jabari Walker who I'd never ever heard of until his name was brought up.

[RC_Drunkford]

Wow. Didn't realize that was his issue. I thought he had a lack of motivation/love for the game. Didn't realize he cares more about games? Any idea what sort of games he plays? I wonder if he can shift his focus back to basketball, and if so, how good he can be.

You guys think the Spurs will at least check in with him? Weren't the Spurs interested in drafting him, or was it pretty much Luka only they were interested in that draft if they were able to get that second pick from Sacramento?


Ayton typically wakes up around 6 a.m. after only getting about two hours of sleep. There's time for a quick round of gaming after eating breakfast, then he's off to practice. Then it's back home to finish talking trash and practicing moves on the virtual court. On game days, Ayton is focused, but that schedule still includes time for video games.
"It's so hard for me to sleep after long games, especially big, long games," Ayton explains. "I don't know why, but I occupy my time with the game. I connect with some of my people. I got brothers in the UK. I got family in Jamaica and the Bahamas. During that game, we talk our smack. Whoever we just beat up on, we talk about it and laugh about it. I ain't going to bed until 4 or 5 a.m. That's how serious it gets."

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33898958/deandre-ayton-phoenix-suns-video-games

[Ice009]

Alright, I read that some of that article, and it seems 2K is one of the games he plays. I find it strange that an NBA player would actually want to play 2K more than dedicating his time on an NBA court in real life. It's one thing if he mostly played other games that aren't basketball related, but why not just focus on the real thing. I haven't played a game in years, and when I used to play 2K, I would have much rather been an NBA player in real life than playing the game. That is strange to me.

[Dverde]

I’d be fine with Kornet. I don’t think he moves the needle much, but he fills a void on the Spurs roster. Plus he stays healthy and isn’t overpaid like John Collins.

[itzsoweezee]

Kornet would be a perfect fit for San Antonio. I can’t believe people are seriously considering Ayton or Vucevic.

[Degoat]

My wishlist
1. Horford
2. Kornet
3. Sharpe

My gut tells me the spurs will be involved in some sort of multi team trade that sends us a big tho, I just can’t fathom them trading pick 38 if they didn’t have something lined up already.

[vy65]

So this luke kornet guy is just actually-funny matt bonner without the 3pt shot, right?

[Ice009]

So this luke kornet guy is just actually-funny matt bonner without the 3pt shot, right?

He seems to also be very smart too. Seems like an awesome guy to be around.

[Manu20]

He seems to also be very smart too. Seems like an awesome guy to be around.

I agree and If the Spurs somehow do get Kornet, he will become a fan favorite by the second game!

[BackHome]

So this luke kornet guy is just actually-funny matt bonner without the 3pt shot, right?

Yep, he is funnier and he is also taller than Bonner who is 6’10 VS. Kornet being 7’1.

[Seventyniner]

Comparing Kornet to Bonner is dumb. Their games are nothing alike. Kornet is a legitimate rim protector, which is what the Spurs desperately need from their backup C.

[Gandalf]

Notably, Kornet used to be a good three-point shooter. Maybe a new shooting coach can bring some of that back.

[Dverde]

Celtics may lose Kornet, Horford, Unicorn in the same offseason.

[spurraider21]

ive been intrigued by the idea of kornet for a while, and its cool to see there appears to be legit buzz that the spurs are in on him. with that said, ill be honest. when i was talking about kornet 1-2 months ago, it was not a "full MLE" type of thought. i think the spurs should be thinking cheaper for the backup C spot, with the MLE being committed to a forward like Laravia instead

[Mr. Body]

Celtics may lose Kornet, Horford, Unicorn in the same offseason.

Their salary sheet was hideous. Actually doing a good job of shedding salary so far.

[Dverde]

Their salary sheet was hideous. Actually doing a good job of shedding salary so far.
Losing all your rim protectors plus Tatum is going to be tough. Maybe they try to flip Simons for a big like John Collins.

[SpursFan86]

ive been intrigued by the idea of kornet for a while, and its cool to see there appears to be legit buzz that the spurs are in on him. with that said, ill be honest. when i was talking about kornet 1-2 months ago, it was not a "full MLE" type of thought. i think the spurs should be thinking cheaper for the backup C spot, with the MLE being committed to a forward like Laravia instead

I have a feeling the Spurs are happier with a forward rotation of Keldon/Sochan/Barnes/Bryant than we are…so it wouldn’t surprise me at all to see them prioritize the backup center role.

I think Kornet is great but agree that the full MLE is getting to “ehh that’s sort of steep” territory. That being said if the Spurs are already planning to be very cautious with Wemby then it makes sense. If you told me Wemby would play 70+ games and average 35 mpg then I’d totally be on board with prioritizing wing help. I’m just not sure how realistic that scenario is.

[SpursFan86]

Posted in offseason thread but will leave here as well since it’s relevant:

Sharpe going to sign a 2 year/12MM deal to return to Brooklyn, per Shams. Very solid deal…would’ve much rather given him that sort of deal than throw the full MLE at Kornet tbh.

[The Truth #6]

It doesn't sound like a lot of you watched the Olympics/France in the Olympics. I've never even heard of this Jabari Walker guy until I looked him up right now. He might be a good player, but where are you getting he's a good shooter from? He shot under 30% from three point range his first two seasons, and in his third season, he's at 38%, but that is off of 1.2 attempts per game. The sample size is too small. Yabusele shot 32% from three point range his first two seasons with the Celtics at a similar attempts/sample size, and then last season with Philadelphia, he also shot 38% like Walker, but with over triple the three point attempts as Walker, so a much larger sample size. What are you basing Walker is a good three point shooter from? Have you watched him extensively?

With Yabusele, I saw him help drag France to the gold medal game. If it wasn't for him, France don't make the gold medal game. He stepped up when most of them were playing like shit (I'm not saying he's the only reason they made it, but a big part of it). He played better than Victor in half of those games. Lebron tried intimidating and pushing him around in the gold medal game, but he was having none of that. He's proven to me that he can play in big games. I trust him a lot more than I trust a guy called Jabari Walker who I'd never ever heard of until his name was brought up.

I didn't say I disliked Yabu. I'm saying Zeus' plan sounds reasonable, but I qualified that I didn't have a problem with Yabu. I watched Yabu in the Olympics. He was very good.

I just didn't use as many words as you did in my original comment.

Walker is the son of former Spur Samaki Walker. I'm not saying I have extensive knowledge on him but I do trust Zeus's judgment. Lopez would be the main acquisition in this proposal, so important to keep that in mind.

[Guru of Nothing]

The Matt Bonner - Luke Kornet Connection

1790169902986211647



https://x.com/spurs_muse/status/1790169902986211647


The Bonner Challenge is a shooting challenge popularized by former San Antonio Spurs player Matt Bonner. It's a series of shots that a player must make consecutively without missing in order to complete the challenge.
Here's how to complete the Bonner Challenge:


Right-handed layup.
Left-handed layup.
Free throw.
Jumper from the top of the key.
Two 3-pointers from the top of the arc.
Another jump shot from the top of the key.
A second free throw.
Another left-handed layup.
One last right-handed layup.


Important rules:


The shots must be the very first shots of the day.
If you miss at any point, you must start all over.
You only get one chance per day to complete the challenge.


The Bonner Challenge became popular within the Spurs organization, with players and coaches participating and competing for bragging rights and a championship belt. Former Spur Nando De Colo was reportedly so good at the challenge that the team sent him a full-size championship belt when he was traded. It's described as a "strangely addictive" game that can cause frustration due to its unforgiving nature.

[ChumpDumper]

If the Celts have such a boner to keep both Kornet and Horford, maybe there's some way to get Queta from them. He's 25 and became semi-reliable for them during the last season.

[spurraider21]

yeah if Sharpe is getting 6m per year i dont see why Kornet should be valued at 14. if somebody is really goingto dump the MLE on kornet then you let them do so.

lakers are starved for a center, and with DFS leaving now have access to the full MLE

[koriwhat]

He sucks, and supposedly there was a level of friction with Wemby.

It was sarcasm but he was useful as a 4th off the bench.

[cutewizard]

Can we still get Yabusele? or get another?

[tbdog]

Can we still get Yabusele? or get another?

I think if the Spurs do a trade for Kornet, they can.

[CGD]

Can we still get Yabusele? or get another?

Precious Achuwa?

[Chinook]

I think if the Spurs do a trade for Kornet, they can.


They don't need to do a trade to sign Yabusele. He's a minimum player, if not a guy who'll have to go back overseas. I really hope the Spurs aren't interested in him as more than that.

[OldMan88]

Yabusele gone…. Signed by the Knicks.

[tbdog]

Do you guys think we are kinda done for big man, perhaps bring Bassey back as a third string and we should look at a shooter now, either via trade or what not?

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/vflTz2WArRQ?si=N4GDpvPEqUXkWjp2

[onechance87]

Do you guys think we are kinda done for big man, perhaps bring Bassey back as a third string and we should look at a shooter now, either via trade or what not?

would like another shooting big type.Maybe mo wagner or chris butcher type.

[Ice009]

Mo Wagner is someone I am interested in. Was looking at the list of free agents yesterday. Not sure when he's be back ready to play though. Would love to have a German player on the team.

[BackHome]

Man if they would have kept the 38th pick we would have had a legit back up in Kornet and a good third option with Maxine

[Mr. Body]

Man if they would have kept the 38th pick we would have had a legit back up in Kornet and a good third option with Maxine

Maxime wanted to go to Sacramento. It was a done deal.

[mudyez]

As much as I like Moritz, I'm hoping for a true center with some defensive abilities.

Wemby will take his games off and I don't feel save regarding some injuries that make him lose more games than just that. In those games I don't want to see us playing Sochan at C when Kornet goes to the bench.

Big Al would be the perfect player but I'm pretty sure he rather plays for GS or LAL instead of riding our bench (in my world I maybe would start him next to Wemby, but I'm pretty sure, that would not be Mitchs plan).

[mo7888]

I like Horford for the BAE

[Dex]

I like Horford for the BAE

Horford always seemed like a "Spursy" guy to me, but I am sure he will get more money and a better opportunity from some other team. Probably will wind up with Golden State.

[Ice009]

Maxime wanted to go to Sacramento. It was a done deal.

Was this reported?

[mudyez]

Horford always seemed like a "Spursy" guy to me, but I am sure he will get more money and a better opportunity from some other team. Probably will wind up with Golden State.

I surely have him on my "spursy but never became a Spur"-team:

C: Al Horford
PF: Elton Brand
SD: Nicolas Batum
SG: Grant Hill (late career)
PG: Eric Snow

6th man: Raja Bell

[Dex]

PG: Eric Snow


https://media.tenor.com/1i5pSb4J2JUAAAAM/starwars-obi-wan.gif

[mystargtr34]

I never actually thought of Horford. You could probably give him the starting 4 spot. Boston’s third and fourth most used lineups last season were with Kornet-Horford and Porzingis-Horford. Both had net ratings of around +10.

Imagine the defense and rebounding with Horford starting at the 4.

[spurraider21]

Horford feels spurs-y but i dont see them dumping the BAE on yet another center

[Mr. Body]

Horford feels spurs-y but i dont see them dumping the BAE on yet another center

We only have one center

[spurraider21]

We only have one center
we have 2. i see them most probably bringing back one of bassey or biyombo on the min as the #3

[RC_Drunkford]

Horford feels spurs-y but i dont see them dumping the BAE on yet another center

he can start at the 4. We also don't have a third big, so you'd kill 2 birds with one stone.

[quentin_compson]

https://media.tenor.com/1i5pSb4J2JUAAAAM/starwars-obi-wan.gif

Alec Guiness fucking rules!

[spurraider21]

he can start at the 4. We also don't have a third big, so you'd kill 2 birds with one stone.
he's held up amazingly well for his age, but with each passing year the odds of him losing the ability to hang on the perimeter defensively decreases

[scott]

The Spurs do have a long legacy of providing a retirement home off ramp for past their peak stars to end their career or at least play in the tail end of it. Who will be the next to join this elite fraternity?

Doc Rivers
Moses Malone
Dominique Wilkins
Kevin Willis
Terry Porter
Jerome Kersey
Ron Mercer
Glenn Robinson
Nick Van Exel
Damon Stoudamire
Theo Ratliff
Antonio McDyess
Tracey McGrady
Andre Miller
Chris Paul
Josh Primo

I wouldn't put Al Horford up with most of these guys, but he could be the next candidate for the Spurs Assisted Living Community

[mystargtr34]

Horfords defense at the 4 can’t be worse than Barnes for one year tbh. Then there’s the rebounding. Spurs would go from 26th in defensive rebounding to top 5 with a Wemby-Horford-Kornet trio at the 5/4 spots. Barnes could split the 4 minutes with Horford 24 MPG each.

But alas, I think he’s signing with the Warriors but I hope not.

[spurraider21]

yeah, Horford makes too much sense with the Warriors for that not to happen, unless he just doesnt want to be in CA

[ambchang]

Alec Guiness fucking rules!

Genuine class.

[RC_Drunkford]

he's held up amazingly well for his age, but with each passing year the odds of him losing the ability to hang on the perimeter defensively decreases

It's not like Barnes is any quicker

[spurraider21]

It's not like Barnes is any quicker
of course he is

[Dex]

The Spurs do have a long legacy of providing a retirement home off ramp for past their peak stars to end their career or at least play in the tail end of it. Who will be the next to join this elite fraternity?

Doc Rivers
Moses Malone
Dominique Wilkins
Kevin Willis
Terry Porter
Jerome Kersey
Ron Mercer
Glenn Robinson
Nick Van Exel
Damon Stoudamire
Theo Ratliff
Antonio McDyess
Tracey McGrady
Andre Miller
Chris Paul
Josh Primo

I wouldn't put Al Horford up with most of these guys, but he could be the next candidate for the Spurs Assisted Living Community

The disrespect to Tony Massenburg and TJ Ford, smh