Spurs Look To Europe For Center

[timvp]

With Nazr Mohammed signing with Detroit and Rasho Nesterovic traded to Toronto, the Spurs are focused on finding a center to play next to Duncan. The pool of remaining NBA free-agent centers is small, so the Spurs have looked overseas.

Croatian center Nikola Vujcic, who helped lead Israel's Maccabi Tel Aviv to the Euroleague championship game this past season, is one of the best big men in Europe and previously has expressed interest in coming to the NBA.

Bob Myers, the agent for Utah's Jarron Collins — the top NBA free-agent center left on the market — called the Spurs "an attractive option" Thursday but also said Collins is assessing all opportunities. The Jazz have said they hope to re-sign him.

Milwaukee is trying to trade Jamaal Magloire but doesn't like what the Spurs have to offer.

:pctoss

Are you kidding me?

[violentkitten]

jarron collins?

time to self medicate

[Leetonidas]

Nikola Vujcic...think he'd come here?

[timvp]

jarron collins?

time to self medicate

Yeah Ludden is the only human alive who regards Collins as the best free agent center available.

[Slinkyman]

Nikola Vujcic? is this guy going to start? he got 5.6 rebs per game in the euroleague, wow.

[rayray2k8]

They're coming weak with offers and are now in a tough spot.
If you wanna use that "its only July (X)" excuse, then you really having been
paying attention to what been going on lately in FA. The well of Centers is almost dried up.

[midgetonadonkey]

I foresee a shitload of small ball next season.

[timvp]

Nikola Vujcic? is this guy going to start? he got 5.6 rebs per game in the euroleague, wow.

:lol :lol

:cry

[carlos30]

any info on Nikola Vujcic?

[Kori Ellis]

Nikola Vujcic is already 28 and hasn't really stood out overseas.

Odd.

[Despot]

hmmmmm.... anyone have the free agent list for next year, seems like the Spurs may be trying to position themselves. or there may be a few players they really like in the draft.

[violentkitten]

awesome. the spurs got weaker and holt got richer this summer

[rayray2k8]

Bob Myers, the agent for Utah's Jarron Collins — the top NBA free-agent center left on the market — called the Spurs "an attractive option" Thursday but also said Collins is assessing all opportunities. The Jazz have said they hope to re-sign him.

Keyword "left on the market".

Milwaukee is trying to trade Jamaal Magloire but doesn't like what the Spurs have to offer.
I knew Milwaukee wouldnt trade Maglorie without getting something equal in return.

[Kori Ellis]

Nikola Vujcic - Macabi Tel Aviv, PF, C, 6-11 (1978)

The Big Croat was playing in the shadow of Jasikevicius and Anthony Parker with Maccabi during their last two European title runs and didn't mind. He has a low key, humble personality, but there is nothing humble about his game. He is the most fundamentally sound bigman in Europe right now, period. A decent athlete, with great basketball IQ and vision, can easily hit the European 3 or back you down with a post move. The thing I love most about his game is his passing ability, he always seems to find a cutting player. He's solid on defense, holds his ground and tries to play smart defense. He was never drafted so by NBA standards he's a free agent, but its questionable if any NBA team would offer him as much money as he can make in Europe, but he definitely seems capable of playing in the NBA. Dallas offered him a 2 million deal a few years back.

[Kori Ellis]

Vujèiæ was born in Vrgorac, in inland Dalmatia, Croatia. He made his professional debut with KK Split in 1995-96, coming from the young team of the club. Played there till 2000-01, wearing number 7 that once belonged to former Split star and current NBA player Toni Kukoè. With Split, Vujèiæ appeared twice in the Croatian playoff final, played 57 Euroleague/Suproleague games and 28 Saporta Cup games.

In 2001 he was signed by Maccabi Tel-Aviv as a replacement for Nate Huffman, who was expected to leave. At the last moment, though, Huffman decided to return for one more season so Maccabi sent Vujèiæ on loan to French club ASVEL Villeurbanne. Vujèiæ helped them win the national championship for the first time in 21 years. He also took part in 14 Euroleague games that season, averaging 15.7 points and 6.4 rebounds.

Since 2002-03, Nikola Vujèiæ plays for Maccabi Tel-Aviv. So far in three seasons with the team he has won two Euroleague titles (2004 and 2005), three domestic championships and three domestic cups. He's likely to remain in Tel-Aviv for at least two more years.

Vujèiæ's strengths and weaknesses are fairly typical for a center from former Yugoslavia. Though he is not especially athletic or strong, and his defense is questionable, he has some solid moves in the paint, shoots the ball well (including the occasional three-point field goal) and is a deft passer.

Nikola was also the first player ever in the Euroleague that performed a triple-double. At November 3, 2005 he finished the Maccabi's Euroleague game vs. Prokom Trefl Sopot with 11 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists. The game ended in a win to Maccabi - 95-68.

As a member of the Croatian national basketball team, Vujèiæ played at the 1997, 1999, 2001 and 2005 European Championship.

[Despot]

Also, ESPN just said that Isiah boarded a plane 15 minutes ago to have a meeting with this guy.

[timvp]

Bob Myers, the agent for Utah's Jarron Collins — the top NBA free-agent center left on the market — called the Spurs "an attractive option" Thursday but also said Collins is assessing all opportunities. The Jazz have said they hope to re-sign him.

Keyword "left on the market".

I'd rather have Jackie Butler. Collins is decent but he doesn't rebound or block shots.

[rayray2k8]

Nikola Vujcic - Macabi Tel Aviv, PF, C, 6-11 (1978)

The Big Croat was playing in the shadow of Jasikevicius and Anthony Parker with Maccabi during their last two European title runs and didn't mind. He has a low key, humble personality, but there is nothing humble about his game. He is the most fundamentally sound bigman in Europe right now, period. A decent athlete, with great basketball IQ and vision, can easily hit the European 3 or back you down with a post move. The thing I love most about his game is his passing ability, he always seems to find a cutting player. He's solid on defense, holds his ground and tries to play smart defense. He was never drafted so by NBA standards he's a free agent, but its questionable if any NBA team would offer him as much money as he can make in Europe, but he definitely seems capable of playing in the NBA. Dallas offered him a 2 million deal a few years back.

:wow
If what it says about his passing game is true, parker and manu would love his ass.

[violentkitten]

intl players want to break into the league and might not be expecting to play for much more than the vet minimum.

how much for one rib?

[rayray2k8]

Also, ESPN just said that Isiah boarded a plane 15 minutes ago to have a meeting with this guy.

Well he is seen in the forum from time to time. :lol
So that doesnt surprise me. :rolleyes

[timvp]

How big is this Big Croat?

[Jekka]

Dude, if we bring another Euro over to start I may puke. Javaktovas is better than this guy so what is the damn point?????

-Manny

[violentkitten]

i'd hit it

[milkyway21]

some comments was right, after last yr's success in signing Horry, and landing a cheap Finley beating the Suns & Heat, the Spurs are practically scratching the bottom of this yr's free agency.

:cry the fate of this team is dim right now. No center. How long Tim can play with his nagging Plantar Fasciitis? can he survive the 82-season games? Big big Q.

[milkyway21]

i don't like Jaron collins too!

[Pistons < Spurs]

We could always trade you Nazr!!

[Kori Ellis]

How big is this Big Croat?

He's listed everywhere as 210-211 cm -- so 6'11.

More info ...


Nikola Vujcic is one of the best players in a rock solid Maccabi Tel Aviv team loaded with talent. With his rebounding and offensive finesse, he has established himself as one of the top big men in Europe.

The 210 cm center is not a fan of the spotlight, preferring the solace of his fishing boat just off the coast of his hometown Split.

But when you're as successful as Vujcic, stardom, with its highs and lows, is bound to follow.

In 2005 Vujcic played his part in a second consecutive Euroleague title for Maccabi, as well as clinching a third successive Irael league crown. He was also selected to the All-Euroleague team (he was a second team selection in 2004).

EuroBasket turned out to be more of a disappointing experience for Vujcic, who was named captain of the Croatian team during training camp.

While Vujcic's individual performance was nothing less than stellar, he was unable to have an impact on Croatia's quarter-final game against Spain and scored just five points on 2/9 shooting in the 101-85 loss.

Despite the painful loss, EuroBasket 2005 did nothing to damage Vujcic's place in the European elite as a perennial FIBA Europe Player of the Year candidate.

[rayray2k8]

We could always trade you Nazr!!
Thats like the Rockets trading back for Mike James.

[Solid D]

Signing Vujcic and Javtokas both would be stripping Euroleague of two of their top Centers. Vujcic and Scola were both first team All-Euroleague along with Anthony Parker, Theo Papaloukas and JC Navarro. BTW, Garbajosa was the 2nd team All-Euroleague Pivot (PF) along with Lavrinovic (C).

He is an excellent player!

[Slinkyman]

youtube.com (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHMcaEpJU08&search=maccabi%20tel%20aviv)

highlights of Maccabi Tel Aviv, Vujcic is number 7.

it appears he's a good passer at least.

[ro_50]

How much money do you guys think he will be looking for from an NBA team?

[ducks]

he has a fishing boat so he can go fishing after spurs win it all
and he does not like the spotlight like duncan

[Solid D]

I thought Vujcic had another year on his contract with Maccabi but Eurobasket site shows he is signed through '06.

He does speak English, sort of like Oberto speaks English. I'm sure Pop could communicate with him just fine since he's Croatian.

[MaNu4Tres]

Why haven't spurs learned their lesson with veteran DECENT bigs from overseas? This guy has Oberto writtin all over him. I certainly hope spurs can come up with another solution for the center position.

[ducks]

1. Nikola Vujcic - Macabi Tel Aviv, PF, C, 6-11 (1978)

The Big Croat was playing in the shadow of Jasikevicius and Anthony Parker with Maccabi during their last two European title runs and didn't mind. He has a low key, humble personality, but there is nothing humble about his game. He is the most fundamentally sound bigman in Europe right now, period. A decent athlete, with great basketball IQ and vision, can easily hit the European 3 or back you down with a post move. The thing I love most about his game is his passing ability, he always seems to find a cutting player. He's solid on defense, holds his ground and tries to play smart defense. He was never drafted so by NBA standards he's a free agent, but its questionable if any NBA team would offer him as much money as he can make in Europe, but he definitely seems capable of playing in the NBA. Dallas offered him a 2 million deal a few years back.
http://nbadraft.net/velkavrh001.asp

[Bob Lanier]

The Big Croat was playing in the shadow of Jasikevicius
That's an ominous sign.

Really... it's not too late... just match the Pistons' offer to Nazr. :angel

[jcrod]

youtube.com (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gHMcaEpJU08&search=maccabi%20tel%20aviv)

highlights of Maccabi Tel Aviv, Vujcic is number 7.

it appears he's a good passer at least.


Shit you can only tell him apart maybe two times, all the rest you can only guess.

[picnroll]

Fuck this. Tank and go for Oden.

[timvp]

Signing Vujcic and Javtokas both would be stripping Euroleague of two of their top Centers. Vujcic and Scola were both first team All-Euroleague along with Anthony Parker, Theo Papaloukas and JC Navarro. BTW, Garbajosa was the 2nd team All-Euroleague Pivot (PF) along with Lavrinovic (C).

He is an excellent player!

Would you rather have him than any bigman option still on the free agent market?

Give us some hope.

[Solid D]

Those who have NBATV and watched Eurobasket 2005 (won by Greece over Germany), should remember Vujcic with Croatia. He is a very accomplished player. He captained the Croatian team that also featured Gordan Giricek.

[jcrod]

Would you rather have him than any bigman option still on the free agent market?

Give us some hope.


Well NBADraft.net has him ranked #1 among euro big men to come to the NBA. Ahead of (2) Luis Scola and (3) Robertas Javotakas

[SequNets]

You got to be f........ing kidding me...........

[jcrod]

Top 10 (Over 22) International Prospects



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


By Uros Velkavrh
10/26/05

While the 2005 NBA draft showed a continuing trend of NBA teams shying away from young International players, the free agent season showed a new trend developing with NBA teams going after the top International players in their prime and with lucrative multiyear deals. Among the top International free agents that were signed this summer were Sarunas Jasikevicius PG, Lithuania (Pacers), Fabricio Oberto PF/C, Argentina (Spurs), Arvydas Macijauskas SG, Lithuania (Hornets). Each is expected to make an impact on their respective teams.
The following is a list of the top European players (at or near their prime) who NBA teams could look at to bring over next year or in the future:


1. Nikola Vujcic - Macabi Tel Aviv, PF, C, 6-11 (1978)

http://nbadraft.net/profiles/largepics/nvujcic01.jpg

The Big Croat was playing in the shadow of Jasikevicius and Anthony Parker with Maccabi during their last two European title runs and didn't mind. He has a low key, humble personality, but there is nothing humble about his game. He is the most fundamentally sound bigman in Europe right now, period. A decent athlete, with great basketball IQ and vision, can easily hit the European 3 or back you down with a post move. The thing I love most about his game is his passing ability, he always seems to find a cutting player. He's solid on defense, holds his ground and tries to play smart defense. He was never drafted so by NBA standards he's a free agent, but its questionable if any NBA team would offer him as much money as he can make in Europe, but he definitely seems capable of playing in the NBA. Dallas offered him a 2 million deal a few years back.

2. Luis Scola - Tau Ceramica, PF, 6-9 (1980)

Drafted by San Antonio as a late second rounder. It was written in the stars he would join them this year, but his club's unwillingness to lower the buyout clause and San Antonio's ability to sign his countrymen Oberto have postponed his move to the NBA. Strong like a bull but also agile, he has a variety of offensive moves which makes him a very tough defensive assignment. He's a tough player mentally, that fights on every possession, which can sometimes get him in foul trouble, but considering the NBA style of game is more physical, he could very well excel with his combination of strength, quickness and finesse.

3. Robertas Javtokas - Lietuvos Rytas, C, 6-11 (1980)

Was drafted #56 in 2001 by guess who, the San Antonio Spurs. An absolute steal back then, he was on his way to becoming the best defensive center in Europe when his motorcycle accident happened. It was questionable if he would ever walk again, much less play. But today, it's as if it never happened, Javtokas is the best defensive bigman in Europe. He has an NBA body and athleticism, a very good vertical leaper and he uses all these attributes to his advantage, especially on the defensive end. His offense is steadily improving, he's developed a nice hook shot that he's hitting with regularity and is good finisher around the basket. He can be erratic from the FT line and need a more consistentcy on his jumpshot from 15 ft out. He might be a better center than any current center San Antonio has, which considering the group (Mohammed, Oberto, Nesterovic) speaks for itself. The rich have options to become even richer.

4. David Andersen - CSKA Moscow, C-PF, 7-0 (1980)

When drafted by Atlanta Hawks (#37) in 2002 he was an athletic but skinny big man, that had potential written all over him. A few years later and after a dominating second half of the season this past year that potential is beginning to pay off big time. A good rebounder and nice shoot blocker, he uses his quickness real well to get past his opponents. Has a nice midrange jumper and can put the ball on the floor to get by his man. Although he has developed his body in the past two years an extra few pounds wouldn't hurt him. Andrew Bogut the best big man from Down Under? Hmmm.

5. Kristof Lavrinovic - Dynamo Moscow, PF-C, 6-11 (1979)

He and his twin brother Darius had a coming out party at the last Olympic games at Athens showing the world their skills and untapped potential. If it weren't for his legal troubles, some NBA team would be owning Kristof's rights right now. But a man cannot change his past and Kristof doesn't needs to as his game is loud enough to take him to the promised league despite his past. His athleticism combined with his strength is something rare in a big man and add to that his shooting touch with range to the European 3, and you have a combination of skills that creates mismatches all over the floor. Consistency is not at the desired level yet and he's still learning how to use some of the natural advantages he has over his opponents. He speaks very little English, so this is another factor for playing in the NBA.

[Please_dont_ban_me]

Hmm...Maccabbi...that sounds awfully familiar. Javtokas running mate?

[Please_dont_ban_me]

Anthyony Parker as in, Tony's brother who went undrafted?

[jcrod]

Still sucks though.

[Kori Ellis]

Anthyony Parker as in, Tony's brother who went undrafted?

No.

Tony's brother who went undrafted in TJ (Terence). He's waiting on a summer league invite from someone and if he doesn't get one, he'll go play in France.

The other brother Pierre will play at UTSA.

[T Park]

PDBM

Javtokas played for Rytas,

and Anthony Parker is no relation....



Still sucks though.


Of course.


They have to trade for an all star.

[rayray2k8]

Sad to see that this guy sort of gives people false hopes, when in fact theres almost no one available on the market.

[timvp]

If they get him and then use the rest of the MLE on Ariza, that'd be good.

If they get him and pocket the rest of the money, they'd be waiving a white flag before the season begins.

[T Park]

Was drafted #56 in 2001 by guess who, the San Antonio Spurs. An absolute steal back then, he was on his way to becoming the best defensive center in Europe when his motorcycle accident happened. It was questionable if he would ever walk again, much less play. But today, it's as if it never happened, Javtokas is the best defensive bigman in Europe. He has an NBA body and athleticism, a very good vertical leaper and he uses all these attributes to his advantage, especially on the defensive end. His offense is steadily improving, he's developed a nice hook shot that he's hitting with regularity and is good finisher around the basket. He can be erratic from the FT line and need a more consistentcy on his jumpshot from 15 ft out. He might be a better center than any current center San Antonio has, which considering the group (Mohammed, Oberto, Nesterovic) speaks for itself. The rich have options to become even richer.


If he brings this over,


Im sure everyone's bitching about this past summer will be shelved.


But Im sure something will happen to bring back cheap, horrible, terrible Spurs talk again.

[Solid D]

Would you rather have him than any bigman option still on the free agent market?

Give us some hope.

You never know for sure, but let's put it this way... I didn't pay much attention to the other guys mentioned by Ludden. When I saw Vujcic's name, it most def' got me interested. I questioned it because I thought he was committed for another year.

Offensively and rebounding-wise, I think he's better than Collins. He's more mobile than Magliore but I'm not sure about physicality comparisons. He's been on several televised games over the past few years, including Euroleague games, Eurobasket 2005, FIBA Championships and Olympics. I'm sure there are some of our European members who have seen him play more often and could give a good perspective on him.

[T Park]

If they get him and pocket the rest of the money, they'd be waiving a white flag before the season begins.

:lol

of course....

Too bad the Spurs don't have Ariza, and others in as high regard as you guys.

[jcrod]

Of course.


They have to trade for an all star.


:rolleyes Yeah, I've been saying that right? Freaking idiot, never stop with your asinine remarks.

[shaggy17]

Wow just wow!! Well look on the bright side. At least Peter Holt saved up $$$ :rolleyes . This is fucking pathetic...we got rid of our 2 centers which was soposed to be a good thing but it turns out putting us in a worse situation :lol. Should of signed the available bigman Pryz when you had the fucking chance. Now we are looking overseas for scrubs who are probably worse then what is left in the NBA market. :pctoss

[timvp]

You never know for sure, but let's put it this way... I didn't pay much attention to the other guys mentioned by Ludden. When I saw Vujcic's name, it most def' got me interested. I questioned it because I thought he was committed for another year.

Offensively and rebounding-wise, I think he's better than Collins. He's more mobile than Magliore but I'm not sure about physicality comparisons. He's been on several televised games over the past few years, including Euroleague games, Eurobasket 2005, FIBA Championships and Olympics. I'm sure there are some of our European members who have seen him play more often and could give a good perspective on him.

I'm sure I've seen him play. In fact, I'm starting to remember more now that I'm watching some highlights of him.

This guy and Javtokas could perhaps hold down the center position. Then the Spurs can go out and try to fill another void with the rest of the MLE.

I just don't know how smart it is for a championship contender going into a season with two rookies at center ... even if they are experienced. We saw with Oberto that it takes a while to adjust.

[T Park]

Freaking idiot,

Keep up with the lovely comments sunshine....



Wow just wow!! Well look on the bright side. At least Peter Holt saved up $$$ . This is fucking pathetic...we got rid of our 2 centers which was soposed to be a good thing but it turns out putting us in a worse situation . Should of signed the available bigman Pryz when you had the fucking chance. Now we are looking overseas for scrubs who are probably worse then what is left in the NBA market


baaa baaa


Any more original thoughts?

[timvp]

What does T Park think the Spurs need to do this summer? If they do nothing more than sign some scrubs to fill out the roster, does he believe that the Spurs can win the championship next year?

Questions.

[shaggy17]

baaa baaa


Any more original thoughts?

:rolleyes Go ahead and try to defend this shit that they are doing. Why dont you do that "I wont post for a year" shit in this situation and MAYBE it will do something about us having issues finding a fucking center :wakeup

[Solid D]

I just don't know how smart it is for a championship contender going into a season with two rookies at center ... even if they are experienced. We saw with Oberto that it takes a while to adjust.

Very true about the time it takes to adjust and familiarize. That's a tough call, but considering what we've seen from Collins and Magliore the past year or two...Vujcic might not be much of a gamble if the price is decent.

[T Park]

Go ahead and try to defend this shit that they are doing. Why dont you do that "I wont post for a year" shit in this situation and MAYBE it will do something about us having issues finding a fucking center

:lol

aww pulls the "I wont post for a year" gem.

Looosah.



What does T Park think the Spurs need to do this summer?

Sign Javtokas.

Sign whoever else the Spurs think is good enough to play for the team.

I obviously have way too much faith in Pop and Co.


For people around here that lauded this as such a great front office, and league wide is considered one of the best, it sure gets shit on alot by the fans of this team.


Whatever.

[timvp]

Very true about the time it takes to adjust and familiarize. That's a tough call, but considering what we've seen from Collins and Magliore the past year or two...Vujcic might not be much of a gamble if the price is decent.

He wouldn't be too cheap, right? Garbagosa or whatever got $4M a year and this guy is supposedly better.

Could it cost the whole or most of the MLE to get him? :(

[ducks]

one thing the the spurs have is now everyone does not think they have to be david robinson they just want them to be better then nazr

[timvp]

Sign whoever else the Spurs think is good enough to play for the team.


Interesting theory. Luckily the Spurs have failed at that over the years in regards to Jason Kidd, Chris Webber, etc.

[T Park]

but considering what we've seen from Collins and Magliore the past year or two..


But but but but,

the Spurs HAVE to get them!!!!

I MEAN, they are LOST without getting the huge studs that are Jamal Magloire and Jarron Collins.

I mean Magloire, is soooo great, theyre, uh, wanting to trade him after 1 year, from a team that is considered HORRIBLY short on PFs.


That OBVIOUSLY is not a warning sign, at ALL!!

[timvp]

one thing the the spurs have is now everyone does not think they have to be david robinson they just want them to be better then nazr

The other thing is that Rasho and Nazr would probably be the two best centers if they played in Europe. Rasho was a Euroleague phenom once upon a time.

[Please_dont_ban_me]

Interesting theory. Luckily the Spurs have failed at that over the years in regards to Jason Kidd, Chris Webber, etc.

Interesting.

Do you have a pen name you write for the Express News with?

[timvp]

Interesting.

Do you have a pen name you write for the Express News with?

Yeah Mike Fingers O' Joy.

[picnroll]

Another stiff to lose resources getting rid of his contract. Fact is Spurs front office hasn't made a stellar move since drafting Parker five years ago.

[Kori Ellis]

I would be hesitant to go into the season with the center spot manned by 3 players in Vujcic, Javtokas and Oberto who may or may not be able to put up any kind of numbers in the NBA. I'd feel more comfortable with someone like Collins, Wright, Butler, etc. here in one of the spots. They aren't great, but you know they aren't going to completely bust if they are giving 20+ mpg.

[T Park]

nteresting theory. Luckily the Spurs have failed at that over the years in regards to Jason Kidd, Chris Webber, etc.

For all the failures there have been the Jerome Kerseys, Stephen Jacksons, Manu Ginobilis, Kevin Willis,


As many failures, there have been success with this front office.


Carry on with the bas the franchise chant though.

[ducks]

you lost faith in Mahinmi already?




keeping manu, tp and duncan were big

being they are in sa, texas

[jcrod]

I would be hesitant to go into the season with the center spot manned by 3 players in Vujcic, Javtokas and Oberto who may or may not be able to put up any kind of numbers in the NBA. I'd feel more comfortable with someone like Collins, Wright, Butler, etc. here in one of the spots. They aren't great, but you know they aren't going to completely bust if they are giving 20+ mpg.


True.

[T Park]

Another stiff to lose resources getting rid of his contract


If he turned the ball over at half court and wet his pants at the sight of a 36 year old defensive point guard, youd laud him as the second coming.

[Kori Ellis]

But but but but,

the Spurs HAVE to get them!!!!

I MEAN, they are LOST without getting the huge studs that are Jamal Magloire and Jarron Collins.

I mean Magloire, is soooo great, theyre, uh, wanting to trade him after 1 year, from a team that is considered HORRIBLY short on PFs.


That OBVIOUSLY is not a warning sign, at ALL!!

Sorry but that post makes no sense. First of all Magloire is a center. Secondly he averaged almost 10 rpg this season. He might be a little fat, but he's not a bad player. The Spurs have been trying to get him, but haven't been able to put together a package the Bucks want.

[picnroll]

Haven't lost faith in Mahinmi but he hasn't proven he can do squat yet. Last proven great move was Paker.

[ducks]

spurs want magloire
but bucks do not like spurs offer yet anyhow...

[jcrod]

spurs want magloire
but bucks do not like spurs offer yet anyhow...


Would you, who could the Spurs offer that would make them pull the trigger?

[T Park]

Wasn't Ginobili also a european phenom who was considered the best over there?


Nahh.

[Solid D]

My guess is Vujcic would probably demand at least a 3-year deal at $10M total. Kori brings up a good point with regard to 3 NBA newbies at the 5 position. The only one of the 3 who is physical is Javtokas.

[picnroll]

Spurs have nothing to offer because they've acquired no assets apart from a three man core. Possibly the thinnest team in the league.

[picnroll]

T Park must be paying pennance for quittting on the Spurs in the '05 playoffs by sucking on the FO.

[ducks]

I think the heat are the thinner then then the spurs

[T Park]

Possibly the thinnest team in the league.

The thinnest team in the leauge, but yet was 3 seconds from back to back rings and,

ah fuck it.

[ducks]

no teams are calling on beno now are they....

[T Park]

T Park must be paying pennance for quittting on the Spurs in the '05 playoffs by sucking on the FO.

another fresh comment......


Thanks Milton.

[Please_dont_ban_me]

Lmao.

The Spurs are one of the deepest teams in the league. Teams would KILL for our bench. We're just pissed b/c it could be better...ya, it could be. But I could make 2 million instead of 1 million...that doesn't mean 1 million is BAD. It's just less good.

[Kori Ellis]

Is Vujcic under contract with Maccabi?

In the latest article that mentions him (yesterday) it talks about how he is being reunited with Neven Spahija (Croatian coach), who just became Maccabi's new coach.

[jcrod]

T Park must be paying pennance for quittting on the Spurs in the '05 playoffs by sucking on the FO.


Shit, dude is taking it both ways.

[spurs_in_7]

http://www.littlefriendsranch.com/Daisy3new.jpg > T Park

[jcrod]

All I know is we lost both our starting centers on a team that won 63 wins. Would've been 70 if Manu and Tim were healthy. Would've won it all if a few bounces went our way with Dallas.

Now we lost both of them and we have nothing to show for it, except for a Bonner. And if this guy is signed, we'll have three unproven players as our starting Centers.

[ducks]

oen thing that it shows
heat did not have a great record and won the title
if it takes time for these euros to develop a little
spurs could still win the title
being 3/4 of the team is from overseas no it should make them feel more at home anyhow

[picnroll]

Lmao.

The Spurs are one of the deepest teams in the league. Teams would KILL for our bench.
LMAO. Yeah that's why the Spurs were playing six deep against the Mavs.

[Quadzilla99]

Still sucks though.
You a well reknowned international scout? Or just a guy who knows all about players he hasn't even seen play for a half of basketball?

Nobody here has seen him play, yeah Rasho and Tskitishvili came from overseas but so did Dirk and Pau. Saying that league sucks is pretty ignorant when most analysts say it's the 2nd best league in the world. The writer that wrote that article obviously has seen him play, I don't know how good of judge of talent he is but he was pimping him pretty hard, good enough for me. I'd give him a shot before some retread stiff, if all three of our froeigners are a bust we could still make a trade before the deadline.

[ducks]

people were ok getting scola who is unproven but not this guy because he is a unproven nba player
ok

[jcrod]

You a well reknowned international scout? Or just a guy who knows all about players he hasn't even seen play for a half of basketball?

Nobody here has seen him play, yeah Rasho and Tskitishvili came from overseas but so did Dirk and Pau. Saying that league sucks is pretty ignorant when most analysts say it's the 2nd best league in the world. The writer that wrote that article obviously has seen him play, I don't know how good of judge of talent he is but he was pimping him pretty hard, good enough for me. I'd give him a shot before some retread stiff, if all three of our froeigners are a bust we could still make a trade before the deadline.


No, but HE IS UNPROVEN, all three would be. If they all bust, what makes you think you can pull a midseason trade, genious. If it was that easy they would've traded Rasho and Barry a long time ago. Who are you going to trade for, and who are you going to give up?

[T Park]

:lol


The peanut gallery has arrived.


Glad everyone has turned this into about me.


How cute.

[velik_m]

Vujacic was bitch-slaped by Smodis in this year's Euroleague finals.

http://www.euroleague.net/plantillas/jugador.jsp?id=APB
vs CSKA Moscow 28:30 min 4 pts 1/6 fg 2/2 ft 1 as 4 to 5 reb 2 bl

he did manage a fg when Smodis was out of the game.


pass.

[Quadzilla99]

No, but HE IS UNPROVEN, all three would be. If they all bust, what makes you think you can pull a midseason trade, genious. If it was that easy they would've traded Rasho and Barry a long time ago. Who are you going to trade for, and who are you going to give up?

Every single player in Europe and coming out is college is "unproven". What is that the buzzword of the day? Also how did Nazr get here?

[Kori Ellis]

people were ok getting scola who is unproven but not this guy because he is a unproven nba player
ok

People were okay getting Scola because Scola would have been backing up Tim.

It the Spurs get this guy, then there's still no proven starting center. Supposedly the Spurs don't think Javtokas will start, so would this guy? This guy backed up by Jav, backed up by Oberto at center would be a precarious way to enter the season.

[Please_dont_ban_me]

LMAO. Yeah that's why the Spurs were playing six deep against the Mavs.

6 deep, huh.

That makes a lot of sense. :elephant

[T Park]

Spurs intl scouting department sucks too.

They've never found anyone either.

[Kori Ellis]

Spurs intl scouting department sucks too.

They've never found anyone either.

Okay we heard you. This thread isn't about TPark, so everyone needs to stop it on both sides.

[Quadzilla99]

People were okay getting Scola because Scola would have been backing up Tim.

It the Spurs get this guy, then there's still no proven starting center. Supposedly the Spurs don't think Javtokas will start, so would this guy? This guy backed up by Jav, backed up by Oberto at center would be a precarious way to enter the season.

If all three of those guys bust out and if we can't pull off a mid-season trade like 2004-05 we would be left without a center. But who are we passing up at this point in the FA process? Retread stiffs who've been let go by other teams. I wish I knew more about the writer who wrote the article, whether he was a good judge of talent. I saw some of his profiles at NBADraft.net so I guess he is like a scout/writer.

[Solid D]

Is Vujcic under contract with Maccabi?

In the latest article that mentions him (yesterday) it talks about how he is being reunited with Neven Spahija (Croatian coach), who just became Maccabi's new coach.

I thought he had another year, but Eurobasket listed his 4-year contract ended in '06.

Okay, so I've thought about this some more. I guess I'd prefer to see the Spurs get a more physical, experienced presence at the 5, and I really wouldn't want 3 newbies if I were the Spurs.

So #1 Magliore - who is going to be expensive since he's an RFA but he's probably the best Center remaining. #2 Collins - would be the next best choice to fill the bill since he's had to play for a tough-minded coach and he can get off the floor somewhat. He fouls too much instead of moving his feet, IMO, but he's not soft. #3 Vujcic - is really good and has better mid-range game than the other two but he relies more on finesse with his passing and scoring skills. He's the same height as the others but he's not as strong. New to the NBA = not an immediate starter.

[jcrod]

Every single player in Europe and coming out is college is "unproven". What is that the buzzword of the day? Also how did Nazr get here?


No shit Sherlock. But why would you want to go into a season with three unproven centers. We are title contenders with an adequate center. If all three bust, its that much harder. At least the other available C's have proven they can play minutes in the NBA.

[Kori Ellis]

I wish I knew more about the writer who wrote the article, whether he was a good judge of talent. I saw some of his profiles at NBADraft.net so I guess he is like a scout/writer.

Well it doesn't matter really what the writers say. He's one of the best players in Europe if he's first team All-Euroleague. That's enough to know he's a good player.

But a lot of Euro players' game doesn't translate into success in the NBA.

[T Park]

THe guy is considered the best center in the european market.

Now before, everyone was excited about when the Spurs would find a jewel in the nile, and get excited about the Spurs looking at someone that no one had heard of.

Ginobili
Javtokas
Mahinmi.


Now the Spurs look international again, and people say HORRIBLE!?!?


Im just curious about that......

[Kori Ellis]

I thought he had another year, but Eurobasket listed his 4-year contract ended in '06.

Okay, so I've thought about this some more. I guess I'd prefer to see the Spurs get a more physical, experienced presence at the 5, and I really wouldn't want 3 newbies if I were the Spurs.

So #1 Magliore - who is going to be expensive since he's an RFA but he's probably the best Center remaining. #2 Collins - would be the next best choice to fill the bill since he's had to play for a tough-minded coach and he can get off the floor somewhat. He fouls too much instead of moving his feet, IMO, but he's not soft. #3 Vujcic - is really good and has better mid-range game than the other two but he relies more on finesse with his passing and scoring skills. He's the same height as the others but he's not as strong.

Magloire isn't RFA. He's under contract with the Bucks.

[Kori Ellis]

THe guy is considered the best center in the european market.

Now before, everyone was excited about when the Spurs would find a jewel in the nile, and get excited about the Spurs looking at someone that no one had heard of.

Ginobili
Javtokas
Mahinmi.


Now the Spurs look international again, and people say HORRIBLE!?!?


Im just curious about that......

But when Manu got here, the Spurs had players to play in front of him IN CASE he wasn't good or needed to be brought along slowly.

It's not the same situation now. There's no one ahead of this guy on the depth chart.

[timvp]

The best thing about Collins is he's thick and strong. He helped dominate Big Ben and the Pistons and the Jazz beat Detroit both times this season. He's a great post defender and a guy who boxes out very well.

The problem is he doesn't actually get rebounds and isn't a shot blocker. Collins is basically a smart kid who isn't scared to throw his body around and the Jazz always seem to play better when he's on the court.

[Quadzilla99]

Well it doesn't matter really what the writers say. He's one of the best players in Europe if he's first team All-Euroleague. That's enough to know he's a good player.

But a lot of Euro players' game doesn't translate into success in the NBA.

Oh, he's first team (how'd I miss that?) Damn. I would take him over Collins. I see your point that Collins is a proven known commodity though.

[Buddy Holly]

But when Manu got here, the Spurs had players to play in front of him IN CASE he wasn't good or needed to be brought along slowly.

It's not the same situation now. There's no one ahead of this guy on the depth chart.

Jax was the one ahead of him right?

I believe the year before Spiderman owned his ass.

Tech. we were going into that season with two unproven players at the two.

[Solid D]

Magloire isn't RFA. He's under contract with the Bucks.

My mistake...I should have looked back at the list again. Trade option only, then.

[timvp]

Jax was the one ahead of him right?

I believe the year before Spiderman owned his ass.

Tech. we were going into that season with two unproven players at the two.

Spurs had Steve Smith and yes Jack if Manu failed (as he did early on in spots). This Spurs team has Oberto if Javtokas and Vujcic fail.

:oops

[Kori Ellis]

I guess that if they bring in this guy and Javtokas, they need to also get Jared Jeffries or Jumaine Jones. Then if none of the Foreign Connection can do anything at center, Tim can slide to center, JJ at PF and we can run small ball for the rest of the season :)

[Buddy Holly]

The best thing about Collins is he's thick and strong.

Nikola and Collins are about the same weight.

[T Park]

Vujcic - is really good and has better mid-range game than the other two but he relies more on finesse with his passing and scoring skills. He's the same height as the others but he's not as strong.


So hes a Pau Gasol.

[Quadzilla99]

No shit Sherlock. But why would you want to go into a season with three unproven centers. We are title contenders with an adequate center. If all three bust, its that much harder. At least the other available C's have proven they can play minutes in the NBA.

Name what "adequate" centers are out there right now.

[Buddy Holly]

Spurs had Steve Smith and yes Jack if Manu failed (as he did early on in spots). This Spurs team has Oberto if Javtokas and Vujcic fail.

:oops

Ah, Steve Smith.

Don't remind me.

[timvp]

Nikola and Collins are about the same weight.

One is strong, one isn't.

[timvp]

So hes a Pau Gasol.

:wtf

Gasol is the most powerful Euros in the league.

Think along the lines of Vlade Divac.

[T Park]

Javtokas sounds to me like a cheaper better version of Jarron Collins, but can actually rebound AND block shots.

[picnroll]

Vlade was a pretty strong guy.

Only a matter of time before people start seeing the positives in Olowkandi manning the post.

[Quadzilla99]

One is strong, one isn't.
Please don't pretend you know all about Vujcic now, I just ate.

[Buddy Holly]

One is strong, one isn't.

Considering no one here has ever really watched the guy play more than 10 minutes, I say we don't know who'd win in a benchpress off.

[timvp]

Oh great, the Quad and Buddy show again.

I'm not going to even start this ish again.

[T Park]

Think along the lines of Vlade Divac.


Yeah that kind of player never does well in the NBA.

[Kori Ellis]

All the scouting reports say he's not that athletic or strong. That's probably why timvp said he's not strong.

[Buddy Holly]

Oh great, the Quad and Buddy show again.

I'm not going to even start this ish again.

Start what?

You made a comment you can't fully back up.

[velik_m]

Vujicic is as soft as they get.

has a nice range though.

[timvp]

Vlade was a pretty strong guy.

Only a matter of time before people start seeing the positives in Olowkandi manning the post.

:lol

I've actually thought about how Kandi wouldn't be thaaaat bad.

[Kori Ellis]

Start what?

You made a comment you can't fully back up.

I just backed it up.

Now get back on topic.

[Kori Ellis]

Vujicic is as soft as they get.

has a nice range though.

There you go.

Someone who has seen him play.

[Quadzilla99]

Oh great, the Quad and Buddy show again.

I'm not going to even start this ish again.

Way to avoid the issue that you're comment about 1 being strong and 1 not was 100% speculation. He has pretty big shoulders in the pic but nobody knows.

[velik_m]

:lol

I've actually thought about how Kandi wouldn't be thaaaat bad.

:lol

[Kori Ellis]

Way to avoid the issue that you're comment about 1 being strong and 1 not was 100% speculation. He has pretty big shoulders in the pic but nobody knows.

It's not 100% speculation. It's in all the scouting reports that he's not strong.

Move on.

[Quadzilla99]

OK.

[Kori Ellis]

Ok I'll take your word good guess Timvp.

You need to stop with your idiocy.

velik is a foreign poster who has seen him play.

Nice edit job :)

[Quadzilla99]

You need to stop with your idiocy.

He's a foreign poster who has seen him play.
Move on.
I fixed it.

[Buddy Holly]

I just backed it up.

Now get back on topic.

What you backed it up with is a generic scouting report that's been used an reused.

Something like "Though he is not especially athletic or strong"

Hell, on draft night that player we drafted was listed as having large arms and short arms.

You can't determine anything until you see it for yourself.

[Kori Ellis]

What you backed it up with is a generic scouting report that's been used an reused.

Something like "Though he is not especially athletic or strong"

Hell, on draft night that player we drafted was listed as having large arms and short arms.

You can't determine anything until you see it for yourself.

velik has seen him play and just said he's soft.

Everything I read on the guy says he's a finesse player and not strong.

[TDMVPDPOY]

spurs would only sign kandiman if he cuts that hairstyle of his that makes him look like a gurl

[Quadzilla99]

He could be strong physically but play softly. His pic he looks pretty big with somewhat big shoulders, but Velik has seen him play and says he's soft on the court. Would he consider Arvydas soft though? Because big, filled out, foreign passing big man sounds similar to Sabonis style.

[Kori Ellis]

By what I'm reading, it looks like this guy is under contract with Maccabi. So we are probably wasting a lot of time talking about him for nothing.

[T Park]

The guys is said to be an adequate to decent defender.

6'11

long.

Big.

If he can stay in front of Dirk, and score on the other end from outside taking pressure off of Duncan.

Isn't that OK?

[Buddy Holly]

Maybe that Russian center we drafted and is now on the summer league team will turn out to be the next Hakeem or Shaq or David.

'Starts to cry.'

[SenorSpur]

I would be hesitant to go into the season with the center spot manned by 3 players in Vujcic, Javtokas and Oberto who may or may not be able to put up any kind of numbers in the NBA. I'd feel more comfortable with someone like Collins, Wright, Butler, etc. here in one of the spots. They aren't great, but you know they aren't going to completely bust if they are giving 20+ mpg.

Couldn't agree more. This is a bad move. The Spurs cannot afford to develop a starting center "on the fly".

[Quadzilla99]

If he's first team All-Euroleague and a legit 6'11 he's got to be able to be at least a decent 20 minute a night guy.

[Solid D]

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=26987&page=1&highlight=Vujcic

Before I go to bed, here is a thread on the pre-season game Maccabi won versus Toronto. It's not a game that was seen by many people. There is a write-up on the game about half-way down with a photo of Vujcic defending Charlie Villanueva. It at least gives some point of reference of his play versus NBA talent, even though it was Toronto in the pre-season.

[T Park]

Villanueva was unproven trash.

Proves nothing.

[T Park]

he Spurs cannot afford to develop a starting center "on the fly".

Kinda like that developing a shooting guard on the fly failed in 02 03.

[TDMVPDPOY]

why dont we give calvin booth a look, his a FA atm. he was only earning nba minimum last season 30yr old

[Kori Ellis]

Kinda like that developing a shooting guard on the fly failed in 02 03.

He had players in front of him as a safety net.

This guy wouldn't.

Anyway, everything I read is about how he's reuniting with this Croatia coach (new coach of Maccabi) and stuff like that. So it seems he's still with Maccabi.

[Quadzilla99]

Shit I went right to the link sorry.

[Solid D]

http://www.nba.com/raptors/news/cp_recap_051016.html

Euroleague Champions Maccabi Tel Aviv Come Back to Defeat Raptors
October 16, 2005

TORONTO (CP) -- Anthony Parker scored 24 points, including a jump shot with less than a second remaining, to lead defending Euroleague champion Maccabi Tel-Aviv to a 105-103 exhibition victory over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.

The victory was Maccabi's first over an NBA squad since it edged the then NBA-champion Washington Bullets 98-97 in 1978.

The visitors earned the win as Raptors head coach Sam Mitchell clearly didn't want to give this one away, keeping starters Chris Bosh, Morris Peterson and Jalen Rose in for the majority of the game.
http://www.nba.com/media/raptors/charlie_hook_maccabi_350.jpg

Charlie Villanueva had 10 points on 5-8 shooting Sunday. (Ron Turenne/NBAE/Getty Images)

Bosh had 27 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Raptors in their annual international pre-season matchup. Rose added 18 points, while Mike James had 16 for the Raptors, who are 0-3 in the NBA pre-season.

Nikola Vujcic added 21 points and 10 rebounds for Maccabi.

After the final whistle, the Maccabi team stood at centre court and applauded the pro-Maccabi crowd of 17,281 at the Air Canada Centre.

The Raptors led the entire game until Will Solomon's three-point shot with 2:39 to play put Maccabi up 95-93, to the delight of the crowd who danced and waved Israeli flags.

Maccabi stretched its lead to four points on a jumper by Vujcic but Toronto battled back and a driving layup by Mike James tied the game 103-103 with 19 seconds left. Yaniv Green scored for Maccabi with 30 seconds to play, Mike James connected on a driving layup to tie the game, and then Parker launched his fadeaway jumper over Raptors' Morris Peterson with 0.8 seconds left to clinch the victory for Maccabi.

The afternoon was like a home game for Maccabi as the stands were full of Israel flags and yellow-and-blue Maccabi T-shirts. The crowd cheered as loudly for the visitors as it did for the Raptors during team introductions, and erupted into chants of `Ma-cca-bi' throughout the afternoon.

NBA commissioner David Stern flew in to attend the game and sat courtside with Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of the board of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Ltd.

Considered the New York Yankees of Israeli basketball, powerhouse Maccabi has cruised to 45 of 51 Israeli titles and three of the last five Euroleague titles. But while Pini Gershon said his team is 10 or 15 years ahead of any other Israeli team in terms of management and budget, he believes the top European teams may never be on equal footing with the best of the NBA.

Maccabi heads to Orlando to play the Magic on Wednesday.

For once, the Raptors outrebounded their opponent, beating Maccabi 47-38 on the boards, but Maccabi shot 47 per cent from the floor to Toronto's 44.

Bosh scored 10 points in the opening quarter as the Raptors took a 24-20 lead over their visitors.

Parker's dunk midway through the second tied the game 39-39, but the Raptors ended the quarter on a 17-7 run to lead 56-46 at halftime.

Two free throws by former Raptor Maceo Baston cut Toronto's lead to 68-67 midway through the third quarter and the home team led 81-77 with a period left to play.

NOTES: There was a heightened security presence at the game as fans were patted down at the ticket gates. . . The United Synagogue Day School choir performed the Israeli and Canadian anthems. . . The Raptors edged Italian team Benetton 86-83 last pre-season, and defeated Panathinaikos of Greece 100-76 in 2003.
Offline | Online

[TDMVPDPOY]

i think we should just save the MLE this season, end of this season KG has a player option of 22million, if his hungry he wouldnt excercise it, and come to teh spurs for minimum or MLE :D

[Buddy Holly]

21 and 10 rebounds against NBA isn't bad.

[T Park]

21 and 10 VS Bosh and Villanueva good rebounders I believe.

Of course preseason will be said, but Mitchell played them a lot of minutes.

Oh well.

[TDMVPDPOY]

21 and 10 VS Bosh and Villanueva good rebounders I believe.

Of course preseason will be said, but Mitchell played them a lot of minutes.

Oh well.

i dont wanna say this, but tim duncan also dominated them last season.

[Buddy Holly]

Why would you hate to say that?

[T Park]

i dont wanna say this, but tim duncan also dominated them last season.

Uhhhhhh

I really don't know where to go with this.

[Quadzilla99]

Velik if you can describe his game some more that would be great. He sounds like he has a similar playing style to Sabonis: semi athletic, filled out big man with great passing ability.

[TDMVPDPOY]

gettin stats of sum euro player against toronto raptors, nothing special about it, kobe went for 81pts, duncans stats> cb+cvs stats combined, check it out

[Quadzilla99]

Everybody who doesn't like the idea of getting him is saying the ex. game doesn't matter. You sure as shit know that if he stunk it up that game they'd mention it every time he was brought up.

[Kori Ellis]

Everybody who doesn't like the idea of getting him is saying the ex. game doesn't matter. You sure as shit know that if he stunk it up that game they'd mention it every time he was brought up.

I would like the idea of bringing him if they didn't have Javtokas or Oberto. I just don't think you can platoon three new guys at center. If Oberto wasn't here, I'd say bring this guy + one NBA vet.

[Quadzilla99]

Yeah I definitely see your point Kori but he should at least be a decent contributor if he's a legit 6'11 and first team All-Euroleague.

[Sense]

omg the Spurs got selfish.

[T Park]

selfish?

[ChumpDumper]

Here's something I wrote last year after seeing Javtokas and Vujcic play each other last December.


It's tough to predict exactly how well he'd do in the NBA since he's always the strongest guy on the court. He does have NBA athleticism to be sure -- he runs the floor well and loves contact. His offense for this game pretty much consisted knocking his smaller defender (like Maceo Baston) out of the way and dunking or going to the line (where he's a pure Spur 50% or so).

Defensively he's very active in a Spur-like help defensive strategy, missed a few rotations but got a huge block late. He had a tough cover in Nikola Vujcic, who could be characterized as a smaller Vlade Divac without too much exaggeration. Probably not athletic enough for the NBA, but Vujcic is a good shooter and great passer who could get anyone to bite on a ball fake, and he got Javtokas to bite quite often. Robertas would probably be much more effective against a more traditional post scorer.

I think he'd be a little foul prone in the NBA, and his offense lacks the jumper that would make him truly compatable with Duncan. That said, he'd probably playing more than Oberto is right now as he would simply be better able to defend more NBA players.

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=657137&postcount=4

[ChumpDumper]

I really like his game, but would rather have Collins as a starter.

[timvp]

"Not athletic enough for the NBA."

Sounds like half the players on the team.

:smokin

[timvp]

O'Connor declined comment on the team's ongoing negotiations with unrestricted free agent Jarron Collins, but he presumably is a primary target, even though the cost of re-signing him might be inching higher and higher.

Call it supply and demand.

Among this summer's unrestricted free-agent centers, the Big Three already are gone.

Ben Wallace has agreed to a four-year, $60 million contract with Chicago, Joel Pryzbilla will sign a five-year, $32 million contract to stay in Portland and Nazr Mohammed signed a five-year, $29 million deal to replace Wallace in Detroit.

Who's left for teams seeking some inside help?

The group includes Memphis' Lorenzen Wright, Indiana's Scot Pollard, Charlotte's Jake Voskuhl, Denver's Reggie Evans, Minnesota's Michael Olowokandi, Detroit's Kelvin Cato, Indiana's Samaki Walker, New Orleans Aaron Williams and Collins.

O'Connor wants to re-sign Collins. But with $55 million already committed to 10 players - not counting the salary's of second-round rookies Brown and Millsap and assuming the Fisher trade is finalized - the Jazz don't have as much salary-cap wiggle room as other possible suitors.

That's the latest on Collins. Doesn't sounds like the Jazz are dead set on keeping him.

[Slo spurs fan]

Vujcic in great player, but I think he would be more a 4 than 5 in NBA.
He has great court vision for big man and has hi basketball IQ, but he is very average against strong players (see velik m´s post about his game against Smodiš in euroleague´s finals this year).

[Quadzilla99]

Vujèiæ in great player, but I think he would be more a 4 than 5 in NBA.
He has great court vision for big man and has hi basketball IQ, but he is very average against strong players (see velik m´s post about his game against Smodiš in euroleague´s finals this year).

Thanks. Why do you think he would be more of a 4? Not strong enough? How does he score most of his points in the post or on jumpers?

[Slo spurs fan]

Thanks. Why do you think he would be more of a 4? Not strong enough? How does he score most of his points in the post or on jumpers?

Yes I think he is not strong enough to play center in NBA.
He can score from almost anywhere, but he has trouble against strong players becouse he could be boxed out easyly.
I think he could be good fit for Spurs small ball but only if he would play at 4 and Duncan at 5 and he could use his great court vision and passing ability to initiate fast breaks.
And he has good blocking ability too.

[T Park]

This guy sounds like hed play fantastic vs a Phoenix or Dallas.


Call me crazy, but Id do it.

Would he play well VS Miami and others with bigs? No, but thats were Javtokas comes in.


Im tellin ya, either him or Collins, get a swing, start the year.

[Sense]

I would rather have an unproven player...
I would rather have Oberto as a starter....

Than Collins.....

[Pero]

Vujcic is very good, but I`m not sure if he`s strong enough. If people thought Rasho is soft... Basiccally everything was already said. Good shooter and passer. I think he might not be as good a rebounder as Scola and Javtokas, and not so strong. But better in pretty much everything else. Though he`s older I think. Could struggle against stronger players.

Also, TPark mentioned guarding Dirk. I think he could do that, he`s more mobile than Rasho or Nazr (and possibly Duncan). But except for that I`m not sure if it would be worth it for the Spurs the get him. He wouldn`t be so cheap.
Also, I agree that having 3 players unproven in the NBA at center is not a good idea. So, I guess a tough call.

[whottt]

Collins is complete and utter crap, and so is his brother. I can't believe anyone is acting like they will make any kind of a difference.

They won't. They will not make the difference in us winning a title. I'd rather go with Oberto and Javtokas.

Collins will have this board kissing Rasho and Nazr's butts to get them back....those guys are HOF'ers compared to the Collins brothers.

I seriously hope the Spurs are not wasting any time considering this player.


I rather see Michael Finley start 82 games at C/PF than see Collins relied on to do squat other than ride the IR. A dime spent on this guy is a dime thrown away.

I am going to get pissed if I even have to look at Collins in a Spurs jersey.

[whottt]

I'd rather have Jackie Butler. Collins is decent but he doesn't rebound or block shots.


Or shoot at a good PCT, or defend well...in short, Collins does not do shit except take up space, and he doesn't even do that well.






Personally I am not that upset the Spurs haven't signed anyone of note yet...

A bunch of GM's are signing players to a bunch of dumbass contracts, making this one of the stupidest offseasons ever. I don't want the Spurs to do that, and so far we haven't missed out on any difference makers that were within our power to get.

And C is not our problem anyway...if it comes down to it we start Horry....not that big of a deal.

[Sense]

Collins is complete and utter crap, and so is his brother. I can't believe anyone is acting like they will make any kind of a difference.

They won't. They will not make the difference in us winning a title. I'd rather go with Oberto and Javtokas.

Collins will have this board kissing Rasho and Nazr's butts to get them back....those guys are HOF'ers compared to the Collins brothers.

I seriously hope the Spurs are not wasting any time considering this player.


I rather see Michael Finley start 82 games at C/PF than see Collins relied on to do squat other than ride the IR. A dime spent on this guy is a dime thrown away.

I am going to get pissed if I even have to look at Collins in a Spurs jersey.
:tu yeah
In other words.... fuck that shit!

[Quadzilla99]

Collins is complete and utter crap, and so is his brother. I can't believe anyone is acting like they will make any kind of a difference.

They won't. They will not make the difference in us winning a title. I'd rather go with Oberto and Javtokas.

Collins will have this board kissing Rasho and Nazr's butts to get them back....those guys are HOF'ers compared to the Collins brothers.

I seriously hope the Spurs are not wasting any time considering this player.


I rather see Michael Finley start 82 games at C/PF than see Collins relied on to do squat other than ride the IR. A dime spent on this guy is a dime thrown away.

I am going to get pissed if I even have to look at Collins in a Spurs jersey.


Or shoot at a good PCT, or defend well...in short, Collins does not do shit except take up space, and he doesn't even do that well.






Personally I am not that upset the Spurs haven't signed anyone of note yet...

A bunch of GM's are signing players to a bunch of dumbass contracts, making this one of the stupidest offseasons ever. I don't want the Spurs to do that, and so far we haven't missed out on any difference makers that were within our power to get.

I agree 100% with everything above and laughed hilariously at most of it. I'd rather give an unproven guy a chance than a proven scrub. However I can see the other sides point even if I don't agree with it. Collins does suck very bad in my opinion but I can't say for certain any of the Euros will do any better than him(even though I probably could).

[Pistons < Spurs]

Spurs showing interest in Jazz's Collins
By Tim Buckley
Deseret Morning News


The San Antonio Spurs have emerged as a potential suitor for Jazz free-agent center Jarron Collins.
The Jazz have said they want to re-sign Collins, who has spent his entire five-year NBA career in Utah.
The team, however, also has indicated it will not overpay for Collins, who made $1.7 million while averaging 5.3 points and 4.2 rebounds per game last season.
Collins, meanwhile, is testing the league's recently opened free-agency market — and apparently drawing some interest from San Antonio, where the local paper calls the Stanford product "the top NBA free-agent center left on the market."
According to a report posted Thursday on the San Antonio Express-News' Web site, Collins' agent, Bob Myers, called the Spurs "an attractive option."
Myers also said his client is assessing all options — one of which evidently includes re-signing with the Jazz.
The Spurs probably will not overpay for Collins, either.
But they are searching for a center to play alongside star Tim Duncan after Nazr Mohammed recently agreed to sign as a free agent with Detroit and Rasho Nesterovic was traded to Toronto.
Besides Mohammed, centers Ben Wallace (who agreed to leave Detroit for Chicago) and Joel Przybilla (who orally committed to re-sign with Portland) also are off the market.


http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,640193046,00.html

[sendman]

The guys is said to be an adequate to decent defender.

6'11

long.

Big.

If he can stay in front of Dirk, and score on the other end from outside taking pressure off of Duncan.

Isn't that OK?
Yeah, he can stay in front of Dirk like you can stay away from Big Mac. :smokin

[furry_spurry]

It definitely made sense that the Spurs should not pay TWO starting center salaries- but they should be prepared to pay ONE if they want to win a championship. They traded Rasho away knowing full well they had absolutely NO intent to re-sign Nazr nor bring in Scola. The Spurs were more interested in cutting payroll than focusing on what is needed basketball-wise. Sure there are teams that go small but a true center is still needed to play against certain teams- and not only Houston and Miami- if the Spurs have any hope of securing the best possible play-off positioning. Notice the contract mentioned as what would make Scola come-- 3/$9M There is nothing unreasonable-- or $4M/year-- about that at all.

As to these other centers- posters do know that Rasho's European career- and at a much younger age- was more impressive than either of them. Spurs fans are clamoring over a euro big man whose game is primarily about finese. :lol The new coach at Maccabi is the Croatian coach who I believe used to coach Javtokas in Lithuania. I also found it rather odd that this article about the Spurs search for a center never mentioned Javtokas in it- even in passing. I told you all Oberto is going to start, and I got laughed at and ridiculed.

[TDMVPDPOY]

chris anstey anyone? he mite be skinny n shit, but dude has range on his jumpshot

[furry_spurry]

My guess is Vujcic would probably demand at least a 3-year deal at $10M total.

June 17, 2006-- before Maccabi hired new coach


Nikola Vujcic leaving Maccabi is the most likely event to follow. After the rumors of going to Madrid and playing for Real, some new circumstances arose. Real failed to qualify for the Euroleague and the club is also awaiting elections for new president.

Lack of Euroleague matches, despite Real’s fight for the wild card, made Madrid a lot less interesting destination for the Croatian center. Forthcoming elections stopped all the negotiations with the players until the new president is elected. Considering everything, it is not likely that Vujcic will be playing for Real Madrid in the next season. But he’s not lacking offers from other clubs.

Greek giant Panathinaikos, host of next season’s Euroleague Final Four tournament wants Vujcic in its roster. According to Spanish and Greek media, PAO is willing to pay our player 1.5 million euros per season. Enough? We’ll see. Vujcic is in no hurry to sign new contract, especially since he said that NBA option is still alive. 29-year old center can probably earn a lot more in Europe (taxes) and he would have secured playing time while all that may not be the case in NBA. We just have to wait and see whether Vujcic would opt for Europe or for USA.

http://www.crobasket.com/main.asp?P=Vijest&J=ENG&VijestID=8792

Last week of June 2006 on the interbasket forum, a poster said Vujcic was staying at Maccabi, but I found no verification.

Sometimes it appears that the Spurs are simply going through "public" motions to make it look like they are looking for a center, when they aren't. Just like they publicly acted like they wanted to re-sign Nazr when that was never going to happen.

[leemajors]

maybe there's a euro balla playin centa out there for timvp to get pumped about.

[spur219]

European Center? That means no agression.

[stewart]

Vujacic could play off the bench like horry did this year. He will give less on defense but more on offense. In a smallball era (thanks david s.....), this guy is made for it. I think, he's gonna ask for too much money for the spurs.
:elephant

[ducks]

Javtokas is going to be the energy big that rose once was

[MoSpur]

This is whack! The Spurs are desperate.

[leemajors]

This is whack! The Spurs are desperate.

desperate less than a week into free agency? give me a break, they are just looking at other options. desperate would be calling jake voskuhl nonstop...

[strangeweather]

WTF?

I just figured they were waiting out the top of the market since they were going to platoon next to Duncan anyway. But adding yet another unproven guy -- and a soft one to boot -- makes absolutely no sense.

Ick.

[MoSpur]

desperate less than a week into free agency? give me a break, they are just looking at other options. desperate would be calling jake voskuhl nonstop...

C'mon. Desperate is the word when you call Jarron Collins. The center position in the NBA today is whack. We all know it.

[jcrod]

desperate less than a week into free agency? give me a break, they are just looking at other options. desperate would be calling jake voskuhl nonstop...


And what do you call Collins?

[leemajors]

And what do you call Collins?

at least collins gets pt. the spurs aren't desperate yet. maybe most of the fans in this thread are, but i doubt the front office is.

[stewart]

i'd rather have a big 3 who can shoot and keep his feet on front of dirk than having collins who's main event is to have a twin playing in the league

[violentkitten]

we are so fucked

[furry_spurry]

Just sort of interesting to follow the PR spiel from the Spurs at each move. When Rasho got traded, RC said Tim would be playing more and more at center. Then, now they don't want Scola because they need a center. :lol People just need to realize that the Spurs are making moves for financial reasons and the costs cut are not going to be spent on someone esle. It is part of why I never understood fans getting so excited about trading away Rasho's contract. It won't make the team any better and won't cause Holt to open the purse strings The Spurs also had the chance to S & T Nazr without touching the exemptions but that would have required taking salary back and that was never going to happen. They will try to trade Brent for an expiring deal to shave one year off that financial commitment, but it again won't be to improve the team.

Be ready for this roster:
Oberto
Duncan
Bowen
Manu
Tony

Javtokas
Horry
Bonner
Finley
Wllliams
?Barry
Beno

I have believed all along that the Spurs will not spend the entirety of the MLE and the LLE this off-season. Where is that young, long 3-- that athletic PF who can play alongside Tim-- that better option at PG. Instead you have two guys you got for Rasho's deal from an awful team that was happy to be rid of them- and a minimum salary PG for practice that will be signed for roster spot #13.

[spurster]

I'm not sure why we are panicking about centers. Getting two or three marginal centers is not going to cut it in the playoffs; they won't get playing time vs. Dallas or Pheonix anyway. Beyond Shaq and Yao, who is there that the Spurs need a center for?

[MajorMike]

Do we know FOR SURE that Javtokas is going to be a Spur?

[Obstructed_View]

I'm not sure why we are panicking about centers. Getting two or three marginal centers is not going to cut it in the playoffs; they won't get playing time vs. Dallas or Pheonix anyway. Beyond Shaq and Yao, who is there that the Spurs need a center for?
The Spurs lost to the Mavericks without their centers. Not playing them was a mistake.

[LEONARD]

LMAO :fro

[Taking it to the Hole]

This offseason sucks so far. What do we have to show for our efforts, Bonner and Williams, and maybe Javtokas. No Scola, No Wallace, No Pryzbilla, No J.R. Smith, What the hell is the FO doing?! maybe our franchise has lost the mystique that brought players here in the past, because right now everyone is blowing us off! :wtf

[Mr. Body]

Wallace was never an option.

Przybilla was a holding pattern. The centers of the future are named Javtokas and Mahinmi.

JR Smith is a punk scrub who will not even get playing time in Chicago.

Scola didn't work out; that's true.

Simply put, there were not many options this summer.

[waly.mg]

I Call the MLE and the LLE some Options for this summer, but are remaining in The Pocket

[Mr. Body]

LLE has gotten us Robertas Javtokas.

He might be one of the best rookies in the NBA next year.

[mardigan]

Do we know FOR SURE that Javtokas is going to be a Spur?

From what I have heard, he is definitely a Spur, he just cant sign till the 12th

[Mr. Body]

The Spurs wouldn't have dropped both Rasho and Nazr without knowing Javtokas was coming. And Javtokas hasn't signed anywhere in Europe while he would have by now.

[Buddy Holly]

This is probably the weakest offseason in terms of player talent since the game of basketball was created.

Seriously.

From the draft to the free agent pool.

I mean for god sakes, if Ben Wallace was the "prize" of this offseason, that should tell you everything.

[Rescueone]

Since the Spurs own Javtokas rights, why can't they announce that they have him signed? Teams that drafted players this year already have announced they have signed their picks before July 12th. Sounds like BS to me!

[ChumpDumper]

I think they're waiting on the announcements of the amounts of the cap and exceptions. 1st round draft picks can actually sign (not just agree to terms) because their salaries are not dependent on the cap.

[Kori Ellis]

I think they're waiting on the announcements of the amounts of the cap and exceptions.

True. The official cap numbers should come out on the 11th.

[furry_spurry]

True. The official cap numbers should come out on the 11th.
True- but they could simply say he has agreed to terms of the LLE- or something like that. Plenty of reports have said players have agreed to the MLE- whatever that turns out to be. This is part of why I think he is going to get a portion of the MLE and not the LLE- because the LLE they could come to agreement on now.

[Despot]

He might be one of the best rookies in the NBA next year.

Why does that sound familiar?

[milkyway21]

Wallace was never an option.

Przybilla was a holding pattern. The centers of the future are named Javtokas and Mahinmi.

JR Smith is a punk scrub who will not even get playing time in Chicago.

Scola didn't work out; that's true.

Simply put, there were not many options this summer.and there's Magloire, who nearly agreed w/ the Spurs except the Spurs won't bite for the add'l yr :D

actually the Midwest WILL BE an overcrowded division next yr. Spurs, Dallas who won the div last season, the return of healthy TMac/Yao Rockets, Memphis and now the reloaded Hornets might bring a sting with young 2006 ROY Chris Paul, shooter Peja, Chandler....

[THE SIXTH MAN]

He might be one of the best rookies in the NBA next year.
Just curious, even though he was drafted a couple of years back and since this is his rookie year, is he eligible for rookie of the year?

[Quadzilla99]

Just curious, even though he was drafted a couple of years back and since this is his rookie year, is he eligible for rookie of the year?

Yeah if he never played here.

[Erick Dampier]

You guys should relax it could be worse.

[scott]

If any of these guys are as good as Oberto, we are set!

[Mijo]

No doubt. All we need is a scrub who can contribute what Rasho/Nazr did most of last year and we're at least as good. We won't get any better but we can at leat match last years contribution with a vet minimum contract me thinks.

[Spurs9]

What is everyone getting scared about? We got Javtokas, I have a feeling this guy will be a beast....

[Jobbs]

Pop's O doesn't go through the 5 spot if you've noticed. I don't care if these guys can shoot a 3. I want to see them play D on a switch and clog the hole up.
I would also give Fab another year to get adjusted to the NBA style of play.

[bdictjames]

Arrgh!!! Now I just wish Rasho was still back with us!!!

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Our free agent center shopping is one big ass fucking joke.

[Neuromancer]

Wow, I dont think the spurs could possibly get any more fucked than this. Seriously, if we are going to do this shit, we might as well tank an entire season to get a number one draft pick, at least. This is horrible.

[TheTruth]

Wow, I dont think the spurs could possibly get any more fucked than this. Seriously, if we are going to do this shit, we might as well tank an entire season to get a number one draft pick, at least. This is horrible.
:stfu . you guys are a fucking joke. Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. Thats 60 wins right there. Get me a big body that will throw a few elbows and grab a few boards, and I'm creaming my pants. Javtokas seems to fit that bill. Gotdamn the people on this board are fucking retards.

[Buddy Holly]

Our free agent center shopping is one big ass fucking joke.

Probably because 99% of NBA centers are a joke.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Probably because they were too concerned about their cap room in 2011 to give Przybilla that fifth year.

Fixed it for you.

Tim Duncan's probably got 4 years of his prime playing days left. Fucking spend the money and win.

This team has done absolutely jack squat to address the weaknesses exposed in the playoffs that, when rectified, would increase its chances of making it back to the NBA Finals again.

Heavenforbid we go over the luxury tax by a whole two million dollars, that would mean that the ownership would make 16 million in profit next year instead of 20 mil. The horror.

[Scrooge McHolt]

:stfu . you guys are a fucking joke. Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker. Thats 60 wins right there. Get me a big body that will throw a few elbows and grab a few boards, and I'm creaming my pants. Javtokas seems to fit that bill. Gotdamn the people on this board are fucking retards.

Exactly. People don't realize how much it costs to run an NBA team. Let's see you get by on 10 million profit a year.

[Holt's Cat]

Try eating Hill Country Fare for a year.

[Mr. Body]

Przybilla was a risk at that much money, and offering him 4 years was the way to go. He may go the way of most marginal centers around Duncan, who for some reason get docile and complacent around him and see their productivity suffer. He is also injury prone.

Using money on him was money you can't spend in the future. Besides, it doesn't matter at all. He's already said he never considered the Spurs. It was either more money in Chicago or stay in Portland.

End of discussion.

[Spurs9]

Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Javtokas, Bowen starting will get that shit done...