Update on Scola's buy-out-- and other bigs

[ploto]

DALLAS — The Spurs currently don't have a first-round pick in next month's NBA draft, but they may derive some benefit from a couple of their previous selections this summer.

Argentine forward Luis Scola, who was taken by the Spurs in the second round of the 2002 draft, has negotiated a more affordable buyout with his Spanish team.

The Spurs broke off talks with Scola last summer over fears he wouldn't be able to free himself from his contract with Tau Ceramica because Tau officials claimed his buyout would cost almost $15 million. Recent discussions between Scola's agents and the team, however, have lowered the amount Scola will have to pay to come to the NBA to between $3 million-$3.5 million.

"We feel good about the progress that's been made," said Spurs assistant general manager Sam Presti, who recently visited Scola in Spain, "and about Luis' possibilities of coming to the NBA."

Whether Scola ever wears a Spurs uniform remains to be seen. The Spurs will assess their needs this summer, as well as what type of contract Scola is seeking, before deciding whether they would be better off trading his rights.

Scola, 26, remains one of Europe's top players. A 6-foot-9 power forward, he again helped lead Tau to the Euroleague Final Four while averaging 14.7 points and 6.6 rebounds.

The Spurs will end the season with 10 players under contract, including center Rasho Nesterovic and forwards Robert Horry and Fabricio Oberto. They also could try to re-sign center Nazr Mohammed.

If the Spurs decide to trade Scola's rights, 6-10 Lithuanian forward Robertas Javtokas could be a more affordable option.

The Spurs drafted Javtokas in the second round in 2001. He severely injured his right leg and right shoulder in a motorcycle crash the next summer, but has recovered well enough that some scouts think he could be a productive rotation player in the NBA.

Javtokas, 26, averaged 9.6 points and 8.2 rebounds for Lietuvos Rytas in Euroleague play. His contract with the team expires at the end of the season, so he won't have to pay a buyout.

The Spurs like how his defense has improved.

"We've been very pleased with the progress Robertas has shown," Presti said.

Ian Mahinmi, last season's first-round pick who isn't expected to be NBA ready for at least another year, will play for the Spurs' summer-league team in Utah unless France selects him for its national team. Viktor Sanikidze, a 2004 second-round pick, also is expected to play in the summer league.

http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/basketball/nba/spurs/stories/MYSA051406.14C.BKNspurs.notebook.892e582.html

[Kori Ellis]

I think they'll trade Scola's rights and have Sanikidze and Javtokas here next season. And Mahinmi the season after that.

[whottt]

I'll say this...Anyone that wants to trade Brent Barry because we have Michael Finely is crazy...I considered that...until I saw a classic Finley playoff performance tonight.

No freaking way.

I say trade Scola for a long SF...WE need that a hell of a lot more than we need a PF.

[Leetonidas]

I think they'll trade Scola's rights and have Sanikidze and Javtokas here next season. And Mahinmi the season after that.

For whom do you think they'll trade his rights for?

[timvp]

Sanikidze and Mahinmi in summer league?

Nice.

:smokin

It'll be a nice little Salt Lake City vacation after a championship.

:smokin X 2

[Leetonidas]

I'll say this...Anyone that wants to trade Brent Barry because we have Michael Finely is crazy...I considered that...until I saw a classic Finley playoff performance tonight.

No freaking way.

I say trade Scola for a long SF...WE need that a hell of a lot more than we need a PF.

What position does JR Smith play?

[ploto]

I think they'll trade Scola's rights and have Sanikidze and Javtokas here next season. And Mahinmi the season after that.
I thought the quotes were interesting-- like Presti talking about Scola coming "to the NBA"-- not the Spurs. Or the article saying the Spurs "could" try to re-sign Nazr, not will.

[timvp]

WE need that a hell of a lot more than we need a PF.

The Spurs have no power forwards on their roster. Horry is a big small forward. Duncan is a center. Rasho, Nazr, Oberto, Marks, Perdue, Oberding, Copa, Bedford, Bateer and whatever other scrubs the Spurs have at the end of the bench are all centers.

[T Park]

Package Beno, Barry and Scola and get a big.

Get a Robert Swift, or a Johan Petro.

Or try and get a Luol Deng.

[whottt]

The Spurs have no power forwards on their roster. Horry is a big small forward. Duncan is a center. Rasho, Nazr, Oberto, Marks, Perdue, Oberding, Copa, Bedford, Bateer and whatever other scrubs the Spurs have at the end of the bench are all centers.


Tim Duncan does a good enough imitation of one....He's more of a PF than anyone else is a true SF.


Need for a long SF>>>> than anything else on our roster.


And I am sorry...but I had reservations about Finley...I kept my mouth quiet...but now I know that everything I ever thought about him is true.


Even if Barry is afraid to shoot...at least he's clutch when he does...and he has a habit of hitting his shots in big moments.


Finley disappears more than anyone I have ever seen in big moments of big games.

Finley is a guy that isn't a afraid to shoot who isn't clutch.

No thanks.

He's the placeholder of which you spoke often last season.

And you know I speak the truth...you watched all those Mav playoff games too.

This was a classic Finley big game performance.

[timvp]

Finley didn't get an open shot. The Mavs are staying on the shooters. Brent got open on some fluke breakdowns by the Mavs. Ditto for Bruce.

The Mavs are making Duncan, Parker and Manu beat them. So far, it's working because they all three haven't played well at the same time yet.

[whottt]

Finley didn't get an open shot. The Mavs are staying on the shooters. Brent got open on some fluke breakdowns by the Mavs. Ditto for Bruce.

The Mavs are making Duncan, Parker and Manu beat them. So far, it's working because they all three haven't played well at the same time yet.


So what...are you saying Finley is clutch?

Link?

Finley may not have been open...in fact I think that's part of what I don't like about his game...he will force a bad shot in a crucial moment.


Look...I know you like the high character guys with a work ethic...like Terry Porter and Finley...I like them too.

But I like winning championships more. Dude doesn't have it....Just like Porter didn't have it.

They either got it...or they don't.

At the beginning of the season I called this...I called it the day we signed him...he will be good enough to be the main guy off our bench, and he will disappear or start playing badly when it matters most...that's what he did tonight.

[clubalien]

Finely is more clutch than stackhouse. My god did you see how he misses he free throws. He also missed a shot this game at the end. He goes for the three in game one.

Seriously I rather have finely shooting the ball than stackhouse with the game on the line.

[whottt]

They are almost the same player....I always figured Stackhouse was more clutch...but you might be right. Finley isn't clutch under any of my definitions of the word...Never has been.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i say we sign scola to MLE, + gino+orbs to minni for garnett+filler

finley+nazr to chicago for deng+ben gordan

tp+rasho has to go

new team outlook
javtokas
td
KG
bowen
beno
deng
gordan
mahinmi
horry
scrub
scrub

[SPARKY]

I say we leave the offseason discussion for the offseason.

[leemajors]

i say we sign scola to MLE, + gino+orbs to minni for garnett+filler

finley+nazr to chicago for deng+ben gordan

tp+rasho has to go

new team outlook
javtokas
td
KG
bowen
beno
deng
gordan
mahinmi
horry
scrub
scrub

you're an idiot.

[intlspurshk]

If SPURS risk 3.5m for compensation and at least 1.5m for Scola salary, why don't they use most of the MLE to chase Chris Wiscox or Reggie Evan or Chris Mihm type player. At least you know what you can get and SPURS deadly need an athletic PF/Center. I think Scola is a better player but there is a big gap between Europe games and NBA games for big men, as evident from the case of Oberto.

[NINERS4LIFE]

If SPURS risk 3.5m for compensation and at least 1.5m for Scola salary, why don't they use most of the MLE to chase Chris Wiscox or Reggie Evan or Chris Mihm type player. At least you know what you can get and SPURS deadly need an athletic PF/Center. I think Scola is a better player but there is a big gap between Europe games and NBA games for big men, as evident from the case of Oberto.

Reggie Evans!, what are you crazy! We don't need a chorizo grabber on our team!? :drunk

[danyel]

i say we sign scola to MLE, + gino+orbs to minni for garnett+filler

finley+nazr to chicago for deng+ben gordan

tp+rasho has to go

new team outlook
javtokas
td
KG
bowen
beno
deng
gordan
mahinmi
horry
scrub
scrub


:lol

Like Chicago would do that, plus no PGs on that roster...

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

finley+nazr to chicago for deng+ben gordan

As if the Garnett trade idea wasn't dumb enough. :lol

[WalterBenitez]

3 argentineans in the same Team? just fire pop and recruit an argentinean coach :D

[yavozerb]

Scola+Beno+Nazr (s&t) for Deng & Chandler

[ducks]

this is the fucking playoffs and not regualar season
discuss this when the jury is out
plenty of playoff basketball left

[danyel]

Scola+Beno+Nazr (s&t) for Deng & Chandler

They already have 4 PGs in Hinrich, Duhon, Pargo and Livingston. And its not like you're actually trading a player in Scola, just his rights, he might not even come to the NBA at all.

Although Scola in Chicago would make some sense for them.

[Russ]

I doubt Scola would help the Spurs lack of quickness problems. Ironically, Oberto's perormance may have hurt Scola's stock some in that regard.

How about Javtokas? Much more athletic from what I can see. The Spurs need someone who can deal with the power and quickness of the Diaws and Varejaos on the horizon.

[picnroll]

Spurs need an agile big to go back to playing twin towers defense. Scola isn't that agile big.

[yavozerb]

Package Beno, Barry and Scola and get a big.

Get a Robert Swift, or a Johan Petro.

Or try and get a Luol Deng.

Petro may be available due to swift playing well towards the end of the season..I wouldnt mind Nazr and scola for Petro and future draft pick

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Scola+Beno+Nazr (s&t) for Deng & Chandler

Hey I know! Beno and a draft pick for McGrady, and then Marks and the rights to Scola to Minnesota for Garnett!

Do any of you live in this thing we call reality? Bulls can get way more than that for a Deng and Chandler package.

[yavozerb]

Hey I know! Beno and a draft pick for McGrady, and then Marks and the rights to Scola to Minnesota for Garnett!

Do any of you live in this thing we call reality? Bulls can get way more than that for a Deng and Chandler package.

They could but there is thing called cap space..You try and build your team for the least amount of money!!!

[Bruno]

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/articles/2006/05/21/suns_come_close_to_burnout/?page=4

With the lottery coming up Tuesday night, here are the words of one personnel man about the state of the 2006 draft (he asked not to be named so as not to incur the wrath of commissioner David Stern): ''It's the worst I've seen in years. All that strip mining has finally taken a toll." The Spurs, for instance, traded away their pick this year to the Knicks (in the Nazr Mohammed deal), believing the draft would indeed be weaker because of a likely age limit. But that's not to say that general manager R.C. Buford won't be active this summer. We could well see a third Argentine on the Spurs' roster next year, as they are very optimistic they can finally sign veteran big man Luis Scola, whose rights they have. Scola, who plays in Spain, was thought to be coming to the Spurs this year, but buyout talks stalled and Argentine Fabricio Oberto was signed in his place (three years, $7.325 million with a player option for Year 3). Now, the Spurs are optimistic that Scola, Oberto, and Manu Ginobili will be on board next fall in what is starting to resemble Buenos Aires North.

[Horry For 3!]

:lmao @ whott saying shit about Finley, that he couldn't make the big shots :lol

[Slinkyman]

Spurs need an agile big to go back to playing twin towers defense. Scola isn't that agile big.

Do the spurs have a time machine so that they can go back in to a time when NBA centers ruled the league? We'll never see twin towers again. I'd rather have scola or bring in another PF and leave duncan and center so that he doesn't have to guard the Dirk, J. O'neal, Bosh, Brand, Jamison, Garnett, Gasol, etc.

[ploto]

Really- in the NBA today- you need 2 options. One is a traditional center who can play alongside Tim and guard offensive big guys like Shaq, Yao, Z, Mihm, D Howard, ... because you don't want Tim covering those guys all regular season long. Then at other times, you need an athletic guy to play alongside Tim when he sildes over to center. I don't believe that you can find one single person who can fill both roles.

[whottt]

:lmao @ whott saying shit about Finley, that he couldn't make the big shots :lol


He couldn't....I started giving him props when he did it...

What disturbs me is that Spursfans don't seem to remember the elimination playoff games where Finley would go 1-17. He was anything but clutch...This is a different Michael Finley and if he'd played like this for Dallas...he'd still be there.

[Horry For 3!]

He couldn't....I started giving him props when he did it...

What disturbs me is that Spursfans don't seem to remember the elimination playoff games where Finley would go 1-17. He was anything but clutch...This is a different Michael Finley and if he'd played like this for Dallas...he'd still be there.
Yes I remember but that was then and this is now

Different years and different teams

[whottt]

Yes I remember but that was then and this is now

Different years and different teams



And a different Michael Finley...and I've been giving him props since he's been doing it.

[V-2]

The Spurs need of resigning Nazr is overrated. Yes he was a big part of last year's championship, but with the emergence of smallball and the ever drought of bigs in the league (other teams will offer more money and PT) don't make Nazr a priority IMO. The Sacramento and Dallas series have many people believe that the Spurs need a long SF, but what they really need is a big forward (or a forward that plays big) alongside TimmyD, or coming off the bench.
Nazr, Rasho and Oberto are practically useless in this year's playoffs, not only because match horrible defensively, but also because they're offensively challenged.
Scola should be a priority for the Spurs this summer. He's a hustler, he can crush the boards, his offensive game is better than the current trio C and most importantly he has cojones.
The fact that the Spurs are weighing trading his rights is because he'll have an immediate impact in this league. Sign him and let him loose, JermO knows best.

[ploto]

Nazr, Rasho and Oberto are practically useless in this year's playoffs

While I appreciate your support for Scola, I don't really see that Scola would be any more useful against Dallas this series either. I just don't see him being particularly effective guarding Dirk.

I also think the Spurs found Rasho quite useful against Sacramento.

[picnroll]

From a Lithuanian poster (http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?t=344)

Rytas coach Neven Spahija said Javtokas is going to the Spurs next season, Spahija himself is well connected with San Antonio (he was assistant coach for some summer leagues), so he knows what he is speaking about.

[Solid D]

From a Lithuanian poster (http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?t=344)

Rytas coach Neven Spahija said Javtokas is going to the Spurs next season, Spahija himself is well connected with San Antonio (he was assistant coach for some summer leagues), so he knows what he is speaking about.

Good find, pic.

I'd like to see Scola take a turn at defending Dirk...just to see how smart he would play him. Dirk is really tricky with his upfakes and upflails, but Luis has some fairly quick feet.

[picnroll]

Good find, pic.

I'd like to see Scola take a turn at defending Dirk...just to see how smart he would play him. Dirk is really tricky with his upfakes and upflails, but Luis has some fairly quick feet.
It might be interesting to see Scola posting up Dirk. Scola has a lot of drop step, up and under moves. He could lay a few fouls on Dirk. Not sure he can stay with Dirk on D. He's slower than Horry. I'm still PO'd since two years agos draft that the Spurs passed on Vareajo. Wild Thing gives Dirk a lot of trouble when they play.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

While I appreciate your support for Scola, I don't really see that Scola would be any more useful against Dallas this series either. I just don't see him being particularly effective guarding Dirk.

I also think the Spurs found Rasho quite useful against Sacramento.

Scola is different from Nazr, Rasho and Oberto in the sense that he would give Dirk problems in the other end. Dirk could get early into foul trouble trying to guard Luis.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

While I appreciate your support for Scola, I don't really see that Scola would be any more useful against Dallas this series either. I just don't see him being particularly effective guarding Dirk.

I also think the Spurs found Rasho quite useful against Sacramento.
are you serious? at least he would be more effective than Oberto, the guy is a lot more athletic, and has an actual jump.

[T Park]

I'm still PO'd since two years agos draft that the Spurs passed on Vareajo

Instead of Beno??

Wouldn't that cause you like a bizzaro world conundrum? :lol

[T Park]

uh oh argentines are going at it now, ripping their own players
like watching a grass snake and a rattler go at it.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

uh oh argentines are going at it now, ripping their own players
like watching a grass snake and a rattler go at it.

Funny...not.

Nobody is ripping anyone. Oberto simply isn't the kind of player that could get Dirk into foul trouble, at least not in the Spurs system.

[picnroll]

Yeah instead of Beno. I wanted Martin. He went, I wanted Vareajo. You probably wanted to draft Nick Quicksand.

[T Park]

You probably wanted to draft Nick Quicksand

Don't remember seeing a guy by that name on the draft board....



Funny...not.


God you guys need to buy senses of humor, lighten up, good lord.

[picnroll]

uh oh argentines are going at it now, ripping their own players
like watching a grass snake and a rattler go at it.
Humor like that? Pass.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

God you guys need to buy senses of humor, lighten up, good lord.

Yeah, because that was absolutely funny.

[ducks]

scola will take time to adjust to the nba
he is a rookie
and he will get rookie calls against him


manu took time to adjust so will scola

scola however will never be a spur

[Bruno]

From a Lithuanian poster (http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?t=344)

Rytas coach Neven Spahija said Javtokas is going to the Spurs next season, Spahija himself is well connected with San Antonio (he was assistant coach for some summer leagues), so he knows what he is speaking about.

Great news. :tu

[ducks]

I also wanted scola over rose

[Bruno]

If we can brink Scola and Javtokas this offseason, trade Rasho for PJBrown and send Oberto somewhere : our bigmen rotation will be quite good for next year :
Duncan/PJ/Horry/Scola/Javtokas.

On a side note, Scola has played today : 25 pts, 13 rebounds.

[T Park]

yeah cause it was soooo offensive.


Get the fuck over yourselves........

[ducks]

scola will want all the mle
spurs have to many needs to give him that much

they have to get a backup point and give some to javtokas
trade barry for that long three

[T Park]

If we can brink Scola and Javtokas this offseason, trade Rasho for PJBrown and send Oberto somewhere

Then if we could trade Brent Barry for Dwayne Wade.....

[Bruno]

Then if we could trade Brent Barry for Dwayne Wade.....

Not straight up and check PJ's age before laughing at me.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

God you guys need to buy senses of humor, lighten up, good lord.
Was that a joke? just to let you know, not everything that amuses you is funny.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

yeah cause it was soooo offensive.


Get the fuck over yourselves........

It wasn't offensive, it just wasn't funny, ok? Need a hug? Let's calm down, breathe slowly and then, kick some motherfucking Mavs ass!

[MaNuMaNiAc]

It wasn't offensive, it just wasn't funny, ok? Need a hug? Let's calm down, breathe slowly and then, kick some motherfucking Mavs ass!
http://spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smilol.gif

[WalterBenitez]

Scola+Beno+Nazr (s&t) for Deng & Chandler

Scola+beno+nazr = Deng, that's ok ... but have you seen Chandler? that guy only produce shadows

[T Park]

Was that a joke? just to let you know, not everything that amuses you is funny.

not everything you say merits posting here either chief.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Scola+beno+nazr = Deng, that's ok ... but have you seen Chandler? that guy only produce shadows

He's good in defense, but in offense....

We already have Rasho for that role.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

not everything you say merits posting here either chief.
merits posting here? http://spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smilol.gif what? I need your approval now :lmao give me a break, I think you take that original member shit WAAAAAAAY to seriously, you do know you have NO authority in this forum, don't you.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

merits posting here? http://spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smilol.gif what? I need your approval now :lmao give me a break, I think you take that original member shit WAAAAAAAY to seriously, you do know you have NO authority in this forum, don't you.

I'm an original member, so shut the fuck up you noob!

Don't mess with TPark!

:lol

Seriously guys, why waste all this energy arguing between Spurs fans? Save it to curse the Mavs!

[Kori Ellis]

From a Lithuanian poster (http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?t=344)

Rytas coach Neven Spahija said Javtokas is going to the Spurs next season, Spahija himself is well connected with San Antonio (he was assistant coach for some summer leagues), so he knows what he is speaking about.


Very cool.

[objective]

scola will want all the mle

i don't know if that's what it will take. The Spurs could start him at 4 and finish him at nearly 5/25 or 6/30. 30 million is enough to cover his buyout of 3.

Plus Scola starting at 4 leaves 2 for Javtokas.

[Kori Ellis]

I don't think there's anyway the Spurs give Scola a contract starting at $4M/year. If Javtokas is coming for cheap, then they'll probably just trade Scola's rights in a package if they can.

[picnroll]

Scola is skilled and he brings the same intensity as Manu and Nocioni. He's a low post player which is something a lot of teams lack. It's a weak draft with few players, particularly bigs, that can come right in and help. I think he might be fairly highly valued and might bring something pretty decent, maybe the big three the Spurs need.

[ploto]

Scola is skilled and he brings the same intensity as Manu and Nocioni. He's a low post player which is something a lot of teams lack. It's a weak draft with few players, particularly bigs, that can come right in and help. I think he might be fairly highly valued and might bring something pretty decent, maybe the big three the Spurs need.
I agree. I think he could be quite valuable as he is much better than what a lot of teams could draft in the first round- and his salary is flexible- unlike first round picks.


I don't think there's anyway the Spurs give Scola a contract starting at $4M/year. If Javtokas is coming for cheap, then they'll probably just trade Scola's rights in a package if they can.
Manu came for the LLE. I think Robertas would come for the same since we have his rights and we are his way into the NBA- unlike Oberto. I don't think we ended up using ours this past summer- did we? I think NVE came for the veteran's minimum instead.

[ploto]

Scola is different from Nazr, Rasho and Oberto in the sense that he would give Dirk problems in the other end. Dirk could get early into foul trouble trying to guard Luis.
But I'm talking about Luis defending Dirk. Pop ALWAYS goes with the defensive match-ups.

[Mark in Austin]

I believe Oberto and Finley split the MLE last summer, so the Spurs will only have the LLE to use this offseason.

Besides, if they let Nazr walk they're still at almost $61 million in salary next year. Even if they could sign Scola to a 4 million/ year contract, that would put them in luxury tax territory unless Barry and / or Rasho are traded too - and we all know what HoltCAT thinks of paying the luxury tax...

Even if they were willing to pay the luxury tax, I think there would need to be a trade exemption created first before they could outright sign Scola since they are over the cap and don't have the MLE this summer.

[T Park]

they have the MLE this offseason.

I think they bring in Scola and Javtokas, try and sign and trade Mohammed, and sign a back up PG, like a Claxton or Bobby Jackson.

[boutons_]

"remember the elimination playoff games where Finley would go 1-17"

... as recently as Game7 vs Suns, @AAA, last year.
Michael was huge in earlier games, but did essentially nothing in Game7, so Mavs lost by one possession and went fishing.

He's reversing his career tendency to show lower stats in playoffs vs season.
He's been impressive and game-changing as a playoff Spur.

[Samr]

Scola, Beno, Ginobili. T-Wolves sign and trade Garnett who, as the new guy on the team, is contractually obligated to be Duncan's ball bitch.

[Slinkyman]

Scola+beno+nazr = Deng, that's ok ... but have you seen Chandler? that guy only produce shadows

I'd love to get Deng but i wonder if the bulls have any interest in scola, as much as i'd like to see him in a spurs uni if we have a chance to get deng who the bulls might be willing to trade with nocioni playing so well i'd say go for it. He'd be an awesome pick up if something like that happens.

[velik_m]

Scola, Beno, Ginobili. T-Wolves sign and trade Garnett who, as the new guy on the team, is contractually obligated to be Duncan's ball bitch.

no let him be Rasho's ball bitch! :lol

[intlspurshk]

Reggie Evans!, what are you crazy! We don't need a chorizo grabber on our team!? :drunk
I don't mind to have a chorizo grabber on the team as long as he grabs 8-10 rebounds a game and knock down D Harris or Jet or Nash with hard fouls. Afterall, he will just be fined for grabbing family jewels, not throwing punches :lol . Call me crazy if you like.


BTW I don't mean to use all MLE on RE. For the case of Chris Wilcox, I would or maybe even more.

[intlspurshk]

Scola is different from Nazr, Rasho and Oberto in the sense that he would give Dirk problems in the other end. Dirk could get early into foul trouble trying to guard Luis.
Sorry but Dirk is the golden child of the NBA. Luis isn't not matter how good he is.

[Solid D]

http://www.24sec.net/article.asp?index=3300

"Turkish international center Keya Peker is the new Tau Vitoria objective to reinforce paint game. Baskonia knows that Luis Scola wants to join San Antonio Spurs next year and is very difficult to keep Argentinean star in Vitoria."

[objective]

Manu came for the LLE. I think Robertas would come for the same since we have his rights and we are his way into the NBA- unlike Oberto.

that would be a bad idea. LLEs are limited to 2 year deals. The Spurs were lucky that they had the cap space to re-sign Ginobili. And considering how even mediocre centers command full MLEs nowadays I wouldn't want to not have Bird rights with Javtokas.

[venitian navigator]

Sign scola, javtokas with excepions, and, if possible and worth of that, Sinikidze (long three?)....then, look for what's available for...the back court!
Trade assets ? we have bigs to sell!!!
However, I can't see nothing so much better than what we have now... (only a very good back up PG - claxton ? Jackson ? - or a real star in needing of the first or more rings - Garnett ? Bryant ? - could be worth of a look)!
Just in case we wanna go for young...we could see if the last minute trade of this year is still available...but I have to say I really like barry and, till now, he's showing something...!

[Gino2882]

It looks like one of Scola/Javtokas will be here, which IMO fills a nice need, with a player who has a chance to be a long-term fixture.

Sanikidze will be playing summer ball, which leads me to believe they will be giving him a look, maybe he makes the end of the bench and can develop into Bowen's replacement.

[T Park]

isnt peker the center the Spurs tried out in Long beach a couple years ago and he stunk?

[strangeweather]

I agree that with Scola's likely contract demands, it's unlikely that he'll come to the Spurs. But now that he is signable, he at least has trade value.

My question is, given that he's never played in the NBA, how much are his rights worth in the trade market? Is he worth Luol Deng, or is he worth Calvin Booth?

[ploto]

that would be a bad idea. LLEs are limited to 2 year deals. The Spurs were lucky that they had the cap space to re-sign Ginobili. And considering how even mediocre centers command full MLEs nowadays I wouldn't want to not have Bird rights with Javtokas.
I realize that- but it is a way to sign Luis, Robertas, AND Viktor.

Think about the option- convert Nazr and Sean (who make a combined $6.6M and whose contracts are up) into those three guys-- 2 bigs and a long 3. :) And imagine those people who would just die- 3 more international players on the Spurs. :lol

[Bruno]

that would be a bad idea. LLEs are limited to 2 year deals. The Spurs were lucky that they had the cap space to re-sign Ginobili. And considering how even mediocre centers command full MLEs nowadays I wouldn't want to not have Bird rights with Javtokas.

That was true with the old CBA.
With the new CBA, there are a new rule to avoid to lose players with less than 3 years of nba experience called the Gilbert Arenas rules.

[Bruno]

I don't think too we should trade Scola. He won't ask a full MLE deal but likely a deal starting at $3M and Scola for $3M isn't at all deal : this guy is a good player and can help us.

[Supergirl]

I agree with you, Kori, although this recent match up with the Mavs has me wondering. If Pop doesn't think Rasho and Nazr are athletic enough to match up with the Mavs, then Scola could become important to keep, esp as a replacement for Horry once he retires.

Javtokas should be here next year, and if he can remain in good health, he could ease some of the gaping hole for a coveted "long 3" we have been needng...

[Solid D]

I agree with you, Kori, although this recent match up with the Mavs has me wondering. If Pop doesn't think Rasho and Nazr are athletic enough to match up with the Mavs, then Scola could become important to keep, esp as a replacement for Horry once he retires.

Javtokas should be here next year, and if he can remain in good health, he could ease some of the gaping hole for a coveted "long 3" we have been needng...

Actually, Supergirl, Javtokas plays in the pivot and not the wing. He's a center at Rytas.

[Borosai]

In my opinion, I think it's time for Duncan to move into the starting center position, while playing PF when Rasho is in the game. Bring Scola over, and start him at PF, with Horry backing him up. Compared to what we have now, that can easily become a great 4-5 combo, capable of scoring more than our current combos can.

I also think moving Duncan to center is a good idea because the most significant challengers in the west have PF that Duncan can't defend out on the floor (Dirk, Amare). There isn't a center that he can't defend, and that can defend him. Much better matchup...but I guess that all depends on what kind of defender Scola is...maybe he can't keep up with them either. Anyway, we need an athletic big man to sic on these guys. Should be an interesting summer.

[Solid D]

Timmy played 5 this year more than any other year...but then again, basketball in general has moved more to smaller lineups. Many college teams in the US have gone smaller, with 3 guard lineups.

[TDMVPDPOY]

scola should come here for 3mill and javtokas 2mill and sanikidz LLE or minimum contract, damn it they are playin in texas income tax free, they can just be freeloaders at sumones house, cough* malik rose restraunt*

[Supergirl]

Actually, Supergirl, Javtokas plays in the pivot and not the wing. He's a center at Rytas.

Isn't he a little short, like 6'10" or 6'8"?

I've always gotten the impression he would play more of a PF or SF role in the NBA. Same with Scola. It seems like bringing both would be overkill, and I'm not familiar with their games enough to know which one meets our needs more.

[Rynospursfan]

I believe Javtokas is 6'10". He would play PF and Center in the NBA.

[whottt]

Isn't he a little short, like 6'10" or 6'8"?

I've always gotten the impression he would play more of a PF or SF role in the NBA. Same with Scola. It seems like bringing both would be overkill, and I'm not familiar with their games enough to know which one meets our needs more.

Javtokas is 6'10, long and a great shotblocker with exceptional leaping ability. He's been cast as a C since the day the Spurs drafted him. Defensively he is a complete C(at least in Europe he is), and offensively, he doesn't have the offensive game to play anything but C.

Scola likewise is locked into the PF position. He doesn't have the range to play SF or the size to play C.

Both of these guys are locked into their NBA positions...the real question is how well their games will translate to the NBA at those positions.

[jcrod]

I hope they keep Scola, because we need a legitimate low post scorer besides Duncan and it seems Scola can be that person.

Jav physically looks great. If he is as athletic as he looks he will be huge for us. I would be interesting to see if indeed he does come over next yr and see him guard Dirk and Amare.

[picnroll]

Just to rehash the old bio on Sanikidze form 2004 nbadraft.net


Viktor Sanikidze
Birthdate: 4/1/86
NBA Position: Small Forward
Ht: 6-9
Wt: 200
Int Team: JDA Dijon
Hometown: Tbilisi, Georgia

Strenghts: Has a bad shooting technique but good touch and accuracy ... Great athleticisim, long limbs: arms and legs ... An excellent rebounder ... A tough player ... Caoachable, willing to learn the game ... Great energy, enthusiastic type of guy, very positive, active ... A relentless worker ...

Weaknesses: Inexperience, Needs strength, lack of weight ... Inexperience at a high level, he hasn't played many minutes with seniors yet, ballhandling to work on ... Must develop his understanding of the game ...

Notes: The biggest sleeper in the draft. Worthy of first round consideration. He played for Globe Tech Junior college in New York for one season and returned to Europe, therefore by rule he is automatically entered into the 2004 draft. Given a few years in Europe, he definitely would have been a first round pick.


He's only 20 and may be still a ways away or he may not amount to anything. My guess is that he's been more than rehabbing this year. Maybe working on strength and shot.

[jcrod]

what about the 7'1 center they took that same yr. Sergei Karavlov????

[Bruno]

what about the 7'1 center they took that same yr. Sergei Karavlov????

Karaulov is a bust and will never play in nba.
Javtokas is 6'11", 260 lbs and is very athletic : he can play center in nba without a doubt.

[Drive Like Jehu]

I have read that next season is Scola's last season with Tau. Tau will want to work a deal with Scola and the Spurs because this is their last chance to get some cash in return.

[jcrod]

Karaulov is a bust and will never play in nba.
Javtokas is 6'11", 260 lbs and is very athletic : he can play center in nba without a doubt.


Who said he was a bust.

[Bruno]

Who said he was a bust.

He sucks in Russia and he is still 24 years old. Baring a miracle, he will only play in summer league.

[T Park]

I think Kauralov was just a "why the hell not" pick.


Sanikidze and Javtokas will be with the team next year.


Can't wait.

Especially Javtokas.

People forget, hed be with the team RIGHT NOW, had there not been labor uncertainty last year at this time.

Had they signed a deal, Robertas would be wearing silver and black right now.

[ploto]

Just to rehash the old bio on Sanikidze form 2004 nbadraft.net


Viktor Sanikidze
Birthdate: 4/1/86
NBA Position: Small Forward
Ht: 6-9
Wt: 200
Int Team: JDA Dijon
Hometown: Tbilisi, Georgia

Strenghts: Has a bad shooting technique but good touch and accuracy ... Great athleticisim, long limbs: arms and legs ... An excellent rebounder ... A tough player ... Caoachable, willing to learn the game ... Great energy, enthusiastic type of guy, very positive, active ... A relentless worker ...

Weaknesses: Inexperience, Needs strength, lack of weight ... Inexperience at a high level, he hasn't played many minutes with seniors yet, ballhandling to work on ... Must develop his understanding of the game ...

Notes: The biggest sleeper in the draft. Worthy of first round consideration. He played for Globe Tech Junior college in New York for one season and returned to Europe, therefore by rule he is automatically entered into the 2004 draft. Given a few years in Europe, he definitely would have been a first round pick.


He's only 20 and may be still a ways away or he may not amount to anything. My guess is that he's been more than rehabbing this year. Maybe working on strength and shot.
All I remember is that the Spurs were actually highest on Viktor that year- out of all the guys they drafted- even higher than on Beno.

[ploto]

People forget, hed be with the team RIGHT NOW, had there not been labor uncertainty last year at this time.

Had they signed a deal, Robertas would be wearing silver and black right now.
As long as his wife is ready to move here now. She was studying in Europe.

[T Park]

i think that was just a cover for him wanting to be assured they would play.

[picnroll]

If Sanikidze doesn't stick with the Spurs maybe they'll try to get him on the same team as Mahinmi in France. As I recall he was playing with Dijon before the injuries.

[Drive Like Jehu]

Pop described Javtokas as a "rock em sock em robots" style post.