Updates: Viktor Sanikidze

[Marcus Bryant]

http://nbadraft.net/profiles/headshots/viktor-sanikidze-hd.jpg

Viktor Sanikidze
Birthdate: 4/1/86
NBA Position: Small Forward
Ht: 6-9
Wt: 200
Current Team: MMT Estudiantes (Spain)
Former Team: JDA Dijon (France)
Hometown: Tbilisi, Georgia

How acquired: Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks with the 42nd pick in the second round of the 2004 NBA Draft. Draft rights traded to the Spurs for the Spurs' 2005 second round pick (#59) and cash considerations (source (http://www.nba.com/spurs/news/sanikidze_040625.html)).

FIBA Europe profile (http://www.fibaeurope.com/cid_f43ulKJBGLcVnbH-aqLVu2.playerID_45506.compID_BYg5Rb55Jw-G5I3MZ6JB01.season_2007.roundID_5093.teamID_1452.h tml)
NBA.com draft profile (http://www.nba.com/draft2004/profiles/ViktorSanikidze.html)
NBAdraft.net profile (http://www.nbadraft.net/profiles/viktorsanikidze.asp)
Wikipedia profile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Viktor_Sanikidze)
MistiLynn's profile (http://www.mistilynn.com/spurs/sanikidze.htm)
Eurobasket profile (http://www.eurobasket.com/player.asp?Cntry=ESP&PlayerID=54579)

[Marcus Bryant]

Blazing a Euro trail: Eight-day travelogue details nuances of Spurs' scouting

Web Posted: 09/30/2006 09:41 PM CDT

Johnny Ludden
Express-News Staff Writer

Editor's note: Staff writer Johnny Ludden accompanied Spurs general manager R.C. Buford on a European scouting trip from Dec. 8-15, 2004. It was the first time Buford had seen French forward Ian Mahinmi, who would later become the team's 2005 draft pick.

The following is a daily recount of their travels:


DAY 7: DEC. 14, 2004

Miles traveled: 318

City visited:

Dijon (France)

Prospects seen:

Boniface Ndong, Senegal, 7-0, C

Viktor Sanikidze, Republic of Georgia, 6-8, F


http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/basketball/nba/spurs/stories/D_IMAGE.10dcf9c674e.93.88.fa.d0.322e32eb.jpg

(Johnny Ludden/Express-News)
French team Dijon, featuring Spurs' draft pick Viktor Sanikidze, plays host to Greece's Ionikos N.F. at the town's Palais des Sports in 2004.


After spending the previous day watching their possible future draft pick, Buford wants to check on one of the Spurs' past selections. Viktor Sanikidze, an 18-year-old small forward taken in the second round five months earlier, is playing in Dijon.

After taking a two-hour train ride to Paris, hailing a taxi to switch stations and taking another two-hour train ride, Buford arrives in Dijon — the same Dijon of mustard fame.

Dijon is playing host to a EuroCup game against Greece's Ionikos N.F. at the town's Palais des Sports. Dijon's blue-and-white fan club is noticeably smaller than that of the European powerhouses. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in spirit: A few fans beat drums throughout the game and one man shouts encouragement through a police bullhorn.

Though Sanikidze is noticeably younger than most of his teammates, he has a good feel for the game. When Ionikos' Saddi Washington flashes open in the corner, Sanikidze is able to make up ground quickly with his long wingspan and block the shot. A couple of minutes later, he makes a nice pass under the basket only to see it sail out of bounds when his teammate doesn't cut.

Dijon's center, Boniface Ndong, who would go on to play for the Los Angeles Clippers the following year, dominates most of the game. The real excitement, however, comes from the teams' coaches. After Ionikos' Zeygolis Giorgos argues a call with the officials, Dijon's Nicolas Faure yells at him to stop arguing. Giorgos has to be restrained from going after Faure.

The NBA should take notes. Who wouldn't pay to see a cage match between Popovich and Utah's Jerry Sloan?

Dijon holds on for a narrow victory, and the club president invites Buford to join him at the team's celebratory dinner. They both kid Sanikidze about not eating enough. Sanikidze is listed as weighing 200 pounds, but that might be 20 to 30 pounds too generous.

Sanikidze both looks and acts like a teenager. Born in the Republic of Georgia, he was surprised to even be in the NBA draft, let alone get picked.

At 15, Sanikidze was playing in a junior national tournament when a representative for New York's Globe Institute of Technology invited him and a teammate to join the school's junior-college team. The two, Sanikidze says, were told they would have to pay for a plane ticket to the United States, but would be reimbursed.

After agreeing, Sanikidze and his friend took a 15-hour flight to New York then went straight from the airport to practice. "On your first day you can't say, 'Oh, I'm tired,'" he says. "The coach will think you're lazy."

The two players, who knew only a few words of English between them, were given a small dorm room to share. Unimpressed by the Spartan accommodations — Sanikidze described the room as "trashed" — they both decided to return home as soon as they were paid back for their airfare.

"It was always, 'Next week, next week, next week,'" Sanikidze says. "So we went to the (school) president and he said, 'We don't pay for that.'

"We finally just decided to leave. Luckily we had bought a return ticket."

Sanikidze returned home and played for a local amateur team before signing with Dijon. As the 2004 draft approached, his agent told him a few teams were showing interest. Sanikidze wanted to wait at least another year before declaring, but was told he didn't have a choice: By playing for a U.S. college, even briefly, then turning pro in Europe, he had automatically entered himself in the draft.

The Spurs took advantage of the loophole and, in a prearranged deal, had Atlanta choose Sanikidze with its 42nd pick in return for a future second-round selection and cash. Sanikidze's agent called him with the news.

"It was the middle of the night and I was half asleep," Sanikidze says. "When my mom called the next morning, I told her, 'I think I was drafted by the Spurs No. 42 last night, but I can't remember clear. It might have been a dream.'"

link (http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/basketball/nba/spurs/stories/MYSA100106.05N.BKNspurs.travelogue.11750bd.html)

[Marcus Bryant]

miércoles, febrero 14, 2007

Sa-ni-kid-ze

Habíamos hablado, entre caña y caña, de una futura travesía brutal (entre Cabesc y yo hay más planes pendientes que pelos nos salen de las piernas), de los integristas, de los solitarios de los parques, de pedir otra caña, una sin y una con plomo. Hacía él tiempo para trotar con el grupo de Aluche, a las órdenes de ese muflón de los Pirineos que se llama Juanma Agejas y que los pone en fila y a tono, aunque Felipe Trepariscos diga que desde que entrena en grupo corre menos. Hacía yo tiempo para una tercera caña y un pincho tortilla y de empalmar con la L10 hacia el metro Lago, donde convergen deportistas, visitantes, proxenetas y familias de proxenetas y de usuarios, que quizá no sepan que papi es un putero o, sabiéndolo, piensen que mejor que se escape a un entorno conocido.

Y habíamos charlado Juanjo y yo de la temporada, de los cambios de entrenador de Estudiantes y de la cría y de los momentos difíciles que pasan las familias que miran cómo los mayores pasan y los pequeños permanecen ajenos a todo esto. Pero sólo lo parecen, pensaba yo para mí.

Soportamos en el fondo de la Demencia una pachanga con nuevas caras, un rival de barrio y 25 puntos de diferencia. Análisis someros sobre si Mariano de Pablos, nuevo entrenador de Estudiantes y refresco con traje y cuello de la camisa impecables, afeitado de barbería y pelo negro de becario pudiente, sacaría o no sacaría mejor rendimiento a un equipo en delicada situación en la ACB, que no mucha, pero la justa para hacer una limpia moral importante entre la masa.

Y aguantamos en este plan festivo de tarde de cañas, esperando que todos se repartieran este debut de jefe y confirmación de liderazgo de copa FIBA hasta que, a pase de un irregular meritorio americanizado, Javi Mendiburu por más señas, el suicida georgiano cruzó en diagonal. Apenas quedaban 7 segundos de ataque y la gamba plancha de Tiblisi recogió por fin el balon picado del 11 estudiantil, de esos sin mirar, de esos que enervan a Rico (the rat) y de esos que...

http://www.basketzone.com/images/divers/actualites/20050203155605_bz_sanikidze_8622.jpg

.. uno, dos, arriba. El Arena de pié ya arrancaba a gritar tras una tarde, para mí de cañas y sociable charla, para ellos muchos de trabajo de corbata y traje, como Mariano, para otros de debut, para... Viktor Sanikidze.

El muchacho (Tiblisi/Georgia, 1986) saltó en diagonal con el balón bien amarrado. Dos manos. Tomahawk acompañado. El mate que cambió el rumbo del Estudiantes. Se quedó colgado mientras los apenas 2000 espectadores y los otros 12000 asientos vacíos reventaban. Pies arriba, fuerza centrífuga lanzando sus esqueléticos gemelos hacia la carretera de Extremadura. La encarnación de las generaciones de la crisis en casa, crisis fuera, gobiernos títere y en el horizonte ese occidente acomodado con la PSP2, la XBOX, campos de minas contra avenidas arboladas con carteles de Simancas y Aguirre. El mate de Sanikidze era el grito de un adolescente que se comería la ACB con pisto. Dejadle que lo haga.

link (http://corre-spanjaard.blogspot.com/2007_02_01_archive.html)

[Marcus Bryant]

http://www.fibaeurope.com/files/%7BA26AE7A5-19A8-47E0-B1FA-A96E90DAE240%7Dlarge_v.jpg

Viktor Sanikidze (GEO, left) and Raimonds Elbakjans (LAT)

FIBAEurope.com (http://www.fibaeurope.com)

[Marcus Bryant]

http://www.fibaeurope.com/files/%7BA0E56A4E-C3BE-4578-A4C1-AF7315CD37E1%7Dlarge_v.jpg

Viktor Sanikidze (Georgia)

FIBAEurope.com (http://www.fibaeurope.com)

[spurscenter]

good kid, needs to buff up , gasol?

[TDMVPDPOY]

this guy is a vanilla version of tayshaun prince without the freckles...

is he our answer at the 3?

[Bruno]

Sanikidze has signed a two years contract with Estudiantes last summer. I don't know if he will stay with them next year (spanish articles say that nothing has been decided about him).
Maybe we will see him with Spurs summer league team. Georgia NT plays too some games between 8/21 and 9/2.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

he's pretty young still i imagine the spurs leave in europe for a while and bring him over here and give him a chance to play in austin, but from what ive heard he doesnt have much of a shot to play in he nba

[Atl Spur]

he's pretty young still i imagine the spurs leave in europe for a while and bring him over here and give him a chance to play in austin, but from what ive heard he doesnt have much of a shot to play in he nba

Never? :nope

[Marcus Bryant]

he's pretty young still i imagine the spurs leave in europe for a while and bring him over here and give him a chance to play in austin, but from what ive heard he doesnt have much of a shot to play in he nba

link?

[spurscenter]

i think he is 4 years away.

[Darkwaters]

This kid is way young and we drafted him when he was just a babe anyways. Hes a high risk/high reward kind of guy (although, not that high risk as the 42nd draft pick isn't a huge deal...but still he doesn't have a great chance of playing in the NBA). Still, I think 3-5 more years abroad and he could be ready to play a role on our team. I don't expect all of our picks to be Tony Parkers and Manu Ginobilis, but if this guy can be a quality role player for us then I would be elated.

[Marcus Bryant]

Well, he's only 21 now.

[Darkwaters]

Well, he's only 21 now.

Exactly. Park him for a few more years and then look at him again. Worst case scenario: he never comes to the NBA. Not a big deal. But even if he comes over and is a succesful rotation guy and thats all he ever is then I think he was a good draft pick.

[spurscenter]

someone get him some mcdonalds and lard

[TDMVPDPOY]

the good ol american diet would do it

[Money316]

[QUOTE=Marcus Bryant]http://nbadraft.net/profiles/headshots/viktor-sanikidze-hd.jpg

Dude needs a serious hair style. I'll springs for the sheers if you'll hold him down Marcus.

:fro

[Marcus Bryant]

Let's try to keep this to background/updates on Sanikidze, at least at the start. Thanks.

-MB

[objective]

as posted before in other threads re: a tidbit on Sanikidze,

the 18 year old 6-8 small forward Sanikidze was drafted right before the barely 19 year old 6-8 small forward Trevor Ariza.

[Darkwaters]

as posted before in other threads re: a tidbit on Sanikidze,

the 18 year old 6-8 small forward Sanikidze was drafted right before the barely 19 year old 6-8 small forward Trevor Ariza.

Add him to the list:

Josh Howard
David Lee
Trevor Ariza
...

[T Park]

fuck it.

bring him over and see what hes got.

At worst you stash him in austin.

Fuck these euro teams.

Mahinmi as well.

[T Park]

Add him to the list:

Josh Howard
David Lee
Trevor Ariza

trevor ariza doesn't belong with them.

So nice try....

[Darkwaters]

The kid had a great showing in the summer league today (despite limited minutes). Surely there are some people that would like to talk about him...but I bumped this thread.

[barbacoataco]

I thought he played well today. What is involved in bringing a player over to play for the Austin D-league team? It seems better than leaving them in Europe, because the Spurs own the team and will be teaching and playing the same system as the Spurs.

[TDMVPDPOY]

what was his stats?

[timvp]

I liked what I saw. Early indications point to him having a chance to be a poor man's Andrei Kirilenko.

[THE SIXTH MAN]

Thats good enough for me.^

[whottt]

I liked what I saw. Early indications point to him having a chance to be a poor homeless dead man's Andrei Kirilenko.


Fixed

[velik_m]

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1302110&postcount=38

[Spurs Brazil]

I hope he can play in a better team in Europe to help his game

And maybe the Spurs can bring him next season, when they'll have more rosters spots

[Darkwaters]

what was his stats?

In 8 minutes he had 4 boards, 2 points (1-3 FG, 0-1 3pt) and 2TOs, 2PFs. While his stats don't look good really at all, his intensity, defense, length and willingness to crash the boards was what supremely impressed us.

[ducks]

does he have a buyout issue

[Darkwaters]

does he have a buyout issue

He just signed a 2 year contract with Estudiantes in Spain. I haven't heard anything about a buyout. But if nothing else he should be available in two years. But considering the PT he got last season it might not be too hard to negotiate a reasonable buyout for the guy.

Edit: And by "just signed a contract" I mean within the last few months.

[ducks]

why 2

[timvp]

He just signed a 2 year contract with Estudiantes in Spain. I haven't heard anything about a buyout. But if nothing else he should be available in two years. But considering the PT he got last season it might not be too hard to negotiate a reasonable buyout for the guy.

Edit: And by "just signed a contract" I mean within the last few months.
Are you sure? I thought he signed that contract last summer.

[Darkwaters]

Are you sure? I thought he signed that contract last summer.

I'm just restating what I have heard mentioned in this forum. Honestly, the person to ask would likely be Bruno. But from what I understood it was a two year contract and it was signed this summer.

[Solid D]

http://www.solobasket.com/contenido.php?id=12519

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=es&u=http://www.solobasket.com/contenido.php%3Fid%3D12519&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=1&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3DSanikidze%2BEstudiantes%2BACB%26hl%3D en

18.08.2006
Beginning/ACBA MVP for the Students
Jaime Martinez Lafargue
The Georgian Viktor Sanikidze lead to his selection to the title of European Sub 20 B in Portugal with averages of 24,3 points and 10,9 bounces. The Students its group has taken control of its services, thus closing

Viktor Sanikidze with its selection (Photo: FIBA Europe)
Viktor Sanikidze (2,03, 1/04/1986, Tbilisi, Georgia) is already new player of MMT Students. The Georgian wing pívot, coming from the JDA Dijon Basket has become player schoolboy for next the two seasons. The one that outside MVP of the past Championship Sub20 B disputed in Lisbon the past month of Julio, mediating in eight parties 24.3 points, 11 bounces, 2 attendances and 3 corks by party, is the last draftee of the student equipment for campaign 2006/2007 and this way the group is closed.

Viktor Sanikidze is one of the best players of Europe of his generation. In the summer of the 2004 he was chosen in the Draft by Atlanta Hawks in number 42 although he was transferred San Antonio Spurs, equipment that at the moment has its rights. The last season militated in the French Dijon, accidentally joint which the MMT will face Students in the FIBA Cup. One is a very versatile player, who can play in several positions, it last in defense and that in addition has good hand from outer positions. Their sport projection in the last years have turned to him a player very to consider in the next years in Liga ACB or NBA. The Georgian will agree in the Madrilenian equipment with Carlos Suárez, with whom agreed in the European Sub18 de Zaragoza where Spain raised gold.

[timvp]

18.08.2006

for next the two seasons

Thanks. So yeah, Sanikidze only has one more year left on his contract.

[Darkwaters]

Good news, it looks like I was wrong. He signed that contract about a year ago:

http://www.24sec.net/article.asp?index=3575

Dated 8/17/06

Estudiantes lands Viktor Sanikidze
By Robert Mayor

Future Georgian pearl Viktor Sanikidze (SF, 2'03, 19) has agreed terms with MMT Estudiantes for the next two seasons. Player (Selected with the number 42 in the 2004 Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, although his rights were traded the same day to the San Antonio Spurs for a 2005 second-round draft pick and cash considerations) comes from PRO A Dijon.

Sanikidze has also played for multiple national teams for the Republic of Georgia, including in the European Championship for Juniors in 2004 and the Ostchem U20 European Championship Division B in 2006.

[yavozerb]

http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=es&u=http://www.solobasket.com/contenido.php%3Fid%3D12519&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=1&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3DSanikidze%2BEstudiantes%2BACB%26hl%3D en

18.08.2006
Beginning/ACBA MVP for the Students
Jaime Martinez Lafargue
The Georgian Viktor Sanikidze lead to his selection to the title of European Sub 20 B in Portugal with averages of 24,3 points and 10,9 bounces. The Students its group has taken control of its services, thus closing

Viktor Sanikidze with its selection (Photo: FIBA Europe)
Viktor Sanikidze (2,03, 1/04/1986, Tbilisi, Georgia) is already new player of MMT Students. The Georgian wing pívot, coming from the JDA Dijon Basket has become player schoolboy for next the two seasons. The one that outside MVP of the past Championship Sub20 B disputed in Lisbon the past month of Julio, mediating in eight parties 24.3 points, 11 bounces, 2 attendances and 3 corks by party, is the last draftee of the student equipment for campaign 2006/2007 and this way the group is closed.

Viktor Sanikidze is one of the best players of Europe of his generation. In the summer of the 2004 he was chosen in the Draft by Atlanta Hawks in number 42 although he was transferred San Antonio Spurs, equipment that at the moment has its rights. The last season militated in the French Dijon, accidentally joint which the MMT will face Students in the FIBA Cup. One is a very versatile player, who can play in several positions, it last in defense and that in addition has good hand from outer positions. Their sport projection in the last years have turned to him a player very to consider in the next years in Liga ACB or NBA. The Georgian will agree in the Madrilenian equipment with Carlos Suárez, with whom agreed in the European Sub18 de Zaragoza where Spain raised gold.

As long as gets his bounces, parties, corks, and whatever else this translation says I'm al for it..Bring him over!! :toast

[Bruno]

Sanikidze staying with Estudiantes is far from sure. The trend is more that he leaves Estudiantes.

[T Park]

trade barry, trade beno, sign a cheap point, bring in Sanikidze.

Not bringing in Viktor would be a huge mistake.

[Bruno]

Sanikidze has T Park's love. :lol
Beware Viktor, enjoy it while it lasts, T Park isn't a lifetime lover. Just ask it to Cisco.

[Darkwaters]

trade barry, trade beno, sign a cheap point, bring in Sanikidze.

Not bringing in Viktor would be a huge mistake.


Trade the rights to Scola + as much filler materials as it takes to the Trailblazers for the rights to Rudy Fernandez. Include James White if necessary.

If James White is NOT traded then:
Trade Barry to Milwaukee for whatever we can get for him (salary dump)
If James White IS traded then:
Retain Barry

Trade Beno to Cleveland for a trade exception and 1-2 second rounders.

Sign a good young PG to the team (Aaron Miles, Zabian Dowdell, or even the frustrated John Lucas III if hes released by the Rockets)

Sign Viktor Sanikidze

Sign Ian Mahinmi

Convince Marcus Williams to either play a year in Europe or include his draft rights in a trade package with anybody interested to sweeten a deal that is in the works(Cleveland, Milwaukee, Portland whatever). Otherwise simply release his rights.

2007-2008 Season
Parker/Dowdell/Vaughn
Ginobili/Finley/White OR Barry
Bowen/Sanikidze
Duncan/Horry/Bonner/Mahinmi
Oberto/Butler/Elson

2008-2009 Season
Parker/Dowdell/Vaughn
Ginobili/Fernandez
Sanikidze
Duncan/Bonner/Mahinmi
Oberto/Butler/Splitter

(If White is retained he can be resigned leaving us with an additional 2 roster spots for Vets)

[pad300]

Trade the rights to Scola + as much filler materials as it takes to the Trailblazers for the rights to Rudy Fernandez. Include James White if necessary.

If James White is NOT traded then:
Trade Barry to Milwaukee for whatever we can get for him (salary dump)
If James White IS traded then:
Retain Barry

Trade Beno to Cleveland for a trade exception and 1-2 second rounders.

Sign a good young PG to the team (Aaron Miles, Zabian Dowdell, or even the frustrated John Lucas III if hes released by the Rockets)

Sign Viktor Sanikidze

Sign Ian Mahinmi

Convince Marcus Williams to either play a year in Europe or include his draft rights in a trade package with anybody interested to sweeten a deal that is in the works(Cleveland, Milwaukee, Portland whatever). Otherwise simply release his rights.

2007-2008 Season
Parker/Dowdell/Vaughn
Ginobili/Finley/White OR Barry
Bowen/Sanikidze
Duncan/Horry/Bonner/Mahinmi
Oberto/Butler/Elson

2008-2009 Season
Parker/Dowdell/Vaughn
Ginobili/Fernandez
Sanikidze
Duncan/Bonner/Mahinmi
Oberto/Butler/Splitter

(If White is retained he can be resigned leaving us with an additional 2 roster spots for Vets)

I am uncertain that this would work - aren't you only allowed to pay (part of) 1 european buyout (up to 500 K US$) per year? By this plan, we have both Splitter and Fernandez coming over next year, and both will have buyouts. Splitter I know, is 1,000,000 US$ next year, but Fernandez will also have one.

[Mr. Body]

Trade the rights to Scola + as much filler materials as it takes to the Trailblazers for the rights to Rudy Fernandez. Include James White if necessary.

Why in the world does Portland want Scola/to get rid of Fernandez?

[Marcus Bryant]

Barring a move(s) that opens up a spot(s) on the roster Sanikidze would seem likely to spend another season abroad.

[Solid D]

Sanikidze staying with Estudiantes is far from sure. The trend is more that he leaves Estudiantes.

If Sanikidze were given major minutes in Summer League and he put up good numbers, would Estudiantes be willing to allow him leave cheaply?

Can you say "restrictor plates"?

Hey, I a'int sayin'...I'm just sayin'.

[Marcus Bryant]

If Sanikidze were given major minutes in Summer League and he put up good numbers, would Estudiantes be willing to allow him leave cheaply?

Can you say "restrictor plates"?

Hey, I a'int sayin'...I'm just sayin'.

One would hope that his NBA exit clause is well defined.

[Solid D]

Indeed.

[Solid D]

I will add to my "indeed" that NBA teams often have to negotiate buyouts with European basketball clubs. An example would be Sergio Rodriguez, where Portland had to negotiate with Estudiantes in Madrid.

[wildbill2u]

In 8 minutes he had 4 boards, 2 points (1-3 FG, 0-1 3pt) and 2TOs, 2PFs. While his stats don't look good really at all, his intensity, defense, length and willingness to crash the boards was what supremely impressed us.
We know that White can elevate. Does he use that explosion to rebound or does he get outmanouvered? Can you compare the rebounding of White and Sanizkadsziwhatever.?

[Mr. Body]

We know that White can elevate. Does he use that explosion to rebound or does he get outmanouvered? Can you compare the rebounding of White and Sanizkadsziwhatever.?

Sanikidze looks to be a much better rebounder than White. While White has good athleticism, he's more of a gliding jumper than a stand-still jumper. He can't simply jump over guys to get rebounds, and is too weak to power through anybody to get them.

[Solid D]

Do the Spurs have a running coach? Sanikidze runs funny.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Do the Spurs have a running coach? Sanikidze runs funny.
Jackie Butler. :D

[Bruno]

For people who wants to follow what Sanikidze will do with the Georgian NT this summer : http://www.gbf.ge/news.php?m=news&lang=eng

[callo1]

I was really impressed with this guy in the RMR games that I went to. It was unfortunate that he got hurt.

I think this guy can play in the NBA, and do not think he is as far away as some others do in terms of development. Yes he is very light, but he plays to his strengths with hustle and quickness. He has a decent stroke from range, and can slash his way to the hoop.

I am a big believer in this guy...would love to see him get a shot.

[wildbill2u]

Does anybody think the Spurs will invite him to camp? I'd like to see him for myself.

[Kiss my asterisk]

I didn't see him on the "rooster" :lol for the most recent games, is he still injured?

[Darkwaters]

I definitely hope they invite him to camp. If nothing else it simply gives him further experience as well as giving the Spurs staff additional time to look him over. But I could see him having a place in camp as a significant motivation for him to take it to the next level this season in preparation for next summer.

[Bruno]

I didn't see him on the "rooster" :lol for the most recent games, is he still injured?

I don't know why he hasn't played the first games with Georgia but he is now playing with them.
Sanikidze played today in Portugal against Portugal NT and scored 10 points.

[ducks]

thanks

[timvp]

I don't know why he hasn't played the first games with Georgia but he is now playing with them.

I'd guess he was still recovering from his ankle injury in summer league. I saw a replay of the injury and it looked pretty ugly.

I guess it's a good sign he's already playing. Either that or Georgia brought in some French doctors to give him the green light.

Someone alert the Spurs.

:stirpot:

[Bruno]

thanks

You're welcome. :)



Either that or Georgia brought in some French doctors to give him the green light.

Someone alert the Spurs.

:stirpot:

Georgian NT was training in France before going in Portugal for this friendly tournament. A French doctor could be behind that. :spin

[Bruno]

Some news :

First, Sanikidze plays well with the Georgian NT
He has played 5 games with them, his stats :
10 pts in 12 min
10 pts, 9 rbds in 29 min
3 pts, 7 rbds in 34 min
11 pts, 6rbds
11 pts, 5rbds
Even if the level of these games is quite low, it's still interesting to notice than Sanikidze is able to be solid with them.

Second, Sanikidze is under contract with Estudiantes for next year but it's unlikely that he will play with them next year.
Estudiantes don't need a deep roster next year because they will only play the Spanish league and their roster is now full at the SF and PF spots (they have just signed Florent Pietrus). I haven't too seen his name linked with another European team for the moment.
I don't think at all that Spurs will sign this summer but it's still theoretically possible. I hope for him that he will find a team where he will be able to get a lot of playtime after two season without playing a lot (injuries + doghouse).

[lotr1trekkie]

How is his last name pronounced?

[Darkwaters]

How is his last name pronounced?

San-ik-eed-zee

[timvp]

Thanks for the update, B.

There might be an outside chance that Sanikidze signs with the Spurs. They seemingly have an open roster spot and seemingly aren't in a hurry to fill it.

Could the Toros sign him without the Spurs signing him first? Doubt it but I haven't seen hard evidence against that possibility.

I liked what I saw out of him in summer league. Hopefully he gets a chance somewhere this year.


P.S.

Any links to those Georgian boxscores available?

[Darkwaters]

Thanks for the update, B.


Could the Toros sign him without the Spurs signing him first? Doubt it but I haven't seen hard evidence against that possibility.


We've been asking that same question all summer. Still no answer. But I think that would be ideal. In Austin he could play pretty well as much as he wanted and be close to our strength and conditioning coaches. At this point, I wouldn't mind just signing him to the Spurs and assigning him to the Toros. But the D-League direct route makes more sense in the big picture.

[Bruno]

Any links to those Georgian boxscores available?

I haven't found full boxscores for these games.
On Georgian BB federation website, there are some news/quick summaries in English : http://www.gbf.ge/news.php?m=news&lang=eng

Georgian NT has finished friendly games, next games will be official ones. Boxscores for these games will be available on fiba europe website :
http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_UPlI3HrKG,kfxUt3eUZwG0.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.html

Schedule for Georgian NT :
August 21st : @Luxembourg
August 25st : Austria
August 29st : @ Iceland
September 2nd : Finland
Two "playoffs" games if they are good enough.

Games against Austria and Finland will be the more meaningful (Luxembourg and Iceland are really bad)

[velik_m]

Games against Austria and Finland will be the more meaningful (Luxembourg and Iceland are really bad)

:lol

[venitian navigator]

if players sign with the toros, the Spurs still have their rights ?
'cause, in case, having a Toros team with Sinikidze, M. Williams and Mahinmi practicing the Spurs plays waiting for their development till they're ready for the 2008 team, wouldn't be a bad idea...

[tinysands]

EuroBasket Division B

LUXEMBOURG 60-88 GEORGIA

9 Sanikidze, V. 22 2/2 100.0 0/0 0.0 0/0 0.0 1 5 6 2 4 1 2 2 4
22 mins, 2/2 FG, 4 pts, 6 rebs, 2 ass, 4 fouls, 1 to, 2 stl, 2 blk

http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_MIo9t,r8GfgCzft4jY3M,2.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.gameID_4950-C-11-6.html

[SpursWillOwn]

EuroBasket Division B

LUXEMBOURG 60-88 GEORGIA

9 Sanikidze, V. 22 2/2 100.0 0/0 0.0 0/0 0.0 1 5 6 2 4 1 2 2 4
22 mins, 2/2 FG, 4 pts, 6 rebs, 2 ass, 4 fouls, 1 to, 2 stl, 2 blk

http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_MIo9t,r8GfgCzft4jY3M,2.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.gameID_4950-C-11-6.html

he has 2 ass!!!!!!!!!!! :spin

[Darkwaters]

6 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks in 22 min isn't bad at all. But I wonder why he wasn't shooting? Also, glad to see him with a pair of dimes as well (especially under the FIBA rules that are more strict about awarding assists).

[BronxCowboy]

But I wonder why he wasn't shooting?
I wondered that myself. Maybe paying rookie dues? Didn't he have a much larger offensive role on the under 20's team last year?

[Bruno]

Rumor is that there is a German team interested in Sanikidze but they haven't found (for the moment) a financial agreement with Estudiantes.

[BronxCowboy]

I hope he doesn't get into some godawful contract in Germany and we end up having to trade him to the Rockets in 5 years for half a Moon Pie.

[MajorMike]

They might throw in an RC Cola.

[wildbill2u]

6 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks in 22 min isn't bad at all. But I wonder why he wasn't shooting? Also, glad to see him with a pair of dimes as well (especially under the FIBA rules that are more strict about awarding assists).
My question is: Why is he only playing 22 minutes in an inferior league. If he's got the stuff to play in the NBA he should be playing big minutes in this league and dominating. What's up with that?

[TDMVPDPOY]

I hope he doesn't get into some godawful contract in Germany and we end up having to trade him to the Rockets in 5 years for half a Moon Pie.

dunno what is a moon pie, but i just had a moon cake...

[BronxCowboy]

My question is: Why is he only playing 22 minutes in an inferior league. If he's got the stuff to play in the NBA he should be playing big minutes in this league and dominating. What's up with that?

If you notice, it was a blowout game and only 3 Georgian players played more than him.

[BronxCowboy]

dunno what is a moon pie, but i just had a moon cake...

http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:87VUJnHmqFx9KM:http://www.revfry.com/stuff/MoonPie.jpg

[BronxCowboy]

Dammit, I can't get the pic up there

[Darkwaters]

If you notice, it was a blowout game and only 3 Georgian players played more than him.

Exactly. Even the star Georgian player, Zaza Pachulia, only played 31 minutes. They're probably trying to give confidence and experience to some of the less established and skilled players on the squad. Because even in FIBA, it still takes 5.

[Vito Corleone]

Moon Pies 10 seconds in the microwave are freaking awesome. I'm not kidding either a must try for anyone.

[wildbill2u]

Exactly. Even the star Georgian player, Zaza Pachulia, only played 31 minutes. They're probably trying to give confidence and experience to some of the less established and skilled players on the squad. Because even in FIBA, it still takes 5.
I may be wrong but generally speaking, in a blow-out, aren't the established stars on a team the first to sit down with the least minutes. I hope you are right and he's a great player who simply hasn't got many minutes with his teams over the past couple of years.

But it don't sound right to me.

[Solid D]

Moon Pies 10 seconds in the microwave are freaking awesome. I'm not kidding either a must try for anyone.

Oh nooooo! Another Free Quattro thread is abloom.

[BronxCowboy]

Sanikidze with 14 points on 5/7 shooting, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, a block and a steal in victory over Austria
http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_MIo9t,r8GfgCzft4jY3M,2.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.gameID_4950-C-14-7.html

[objective]

so what's the rest of the schedule like for Georgia? Are they finished playing in division B?

[barbacoataco]

Just to clear things up--- is it possible for the Spurs to sign Sanikidze this year, or would it have to be next year? I read different things.

[wildbill2u]

Sanikidze with 14 points on 5/7 shooting, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, a block and a steal in victory over Austria
http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_MIo9t,r8GfgCzft4jY3M,2.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.gameID_4950-C-14-7.html
That's the kind of play I want to see from him. Bring him to camp, Pop

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Nice. We better bring him in by at least next year.

[objective]

Georgia will play Iceland on Wednesday

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

Just to clear things up--- is it possible for the Spurs to sign Sanikidze this year, or would it have to be next year? I read different things.

Since he signed his 2 yr contract in 2006, provided he doesn't sign another contract he is ours free and clear in 2008.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, if we bring him over this yr then there will be some type of buyout involved.

[Bruno]

Sanikidze with 14 points on 5/7 shooting, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, a block and a steal in victory over Austria
http://www.eurobasket2007.org/en/cid_BqypGFJPHy-Nw4lwIAq,v3.pageID_MIo9t,r8GfgCzft4jY3M,2.compID_q MRZdYCZI6EoANOrUf9le2.season_2007.gameID_4950-C-14-7.html

Sanikidze plays PF for the Georgian NT.
If he develops well, he could become in a couple of years the SF/PF Spurs need for a long time.
The more important to him is now find a team in Europe where he will get some playtime because he hasn't played a lot for two years.

[MoSpur]

For some reason I have more hope in this guy than Scola.

[TDMVPDPOY]

lets hope he doesnt turn out like that top 7 pick denver had a few years ago tsivikikiktikitki wtf is his surname i forgot

[Holt's Cat]

Sanikidze plays PF for the Georgian NT.
If he develops well, he could become in a couple of years the SF/PF Spurs need for a long time.
The more important to him is now find a team in Europe where he will get some playtime because he hasn't played a lot for two years.

He doesn't look like he could bulk up enough to see any significant time at the 4 in the league. Depending on matchups he might be able to do so occasionally.

[oligarchy]

He doesn't look like he could bulk up enough to see any significant time at the 4 in the league. Depending on matchups he might be able to do so occasionally.

I agree, but it's needed even if he plays the 3. I think he's under 200.

[Darkwaters]

Since he signed his 2 yr contract in 2006, provided he doesn't sign another contract he is ours free and clear in 2008.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, if we bring him over this yr then there will be some type of buyout involved.

I believe you are correct. But a German team has been negotiating with him to buyout his contract with MMT Estudiantes and bring him to the fatherland.

While I like the idea of getting him more playing time, a contract in Germany likely will be more than a single season long and would have yet another potential buyout issue attached to it. Also, the German leagues aren't especially noted for their high level of competition. But I'd rather him being playing with inferior talent than simply watching higher levels.

[Darkwaters]

Sanikidze plays PF for the Georgian NT.
If he develops well, he could become in a couple of years the SF/PF Spurs need for a long time.


Definitely. He needs to put on some weight and get stronger (which seems to be a very common problem with Euros coming to the states) but the guy is long as can be, doesn't mind doing the dirty work, plays D and rebounds and has a developing 3 point shot.

Sounds like a Spurs type player to me.

[Bruno]

An interview of Ken Shields who is Georgian NT coach :
http://www.gbf.ge/news.php?m=news&lang=eng#

What he says about Sanikidze :


He works hard and slowly comes to the point, where he will become one of the stalwarts of this team.

[ChumpDumper]

If there is a reasonable buyout now, I'd pick Viktor up now and talk Williams into going to Europe. I'd rather have him playing in Austin than Germany.

[Darkwaters]

If there is a reasonable buyout now, I'd pick Viktor up now and talk Williams into going to Europe. I'd rather have him playing in Austin than Germany.

Seconded.

[timvp]

If there is a reasonable buyout now, I'd pick Viktor up now and talk Williams into going to Europe. I'd rather have him playing in Austin than Germany.

Thirded.

Williams needs a lot of work. And really, the D-League might be too tough for Williams next season, as sad as that is to say. His shot is so ugly now that a random D-Leaguer off the street may beat him out. Williams might be best suited to go to a second division European club where he can get a lot of touches and get his confidence back.

Sanikidze, on the other hand, needs to be put into a structured setting where he can learn how to play. He has the raw skills and athleticism but he needs better coaching. Putting him in the D-League would be an ideal fit because he'll have the chance to work on the nuances of the game and bulk up.

After Williams regains confidence, then he'll be worth putting in the D-League. Right now, he'd probably struggle in the D-League and most likely not even get that many minutes.

[ChumpDumper]

Oh, I think Williams would get minutes in the D-League, but there's just one roster spot left and I would prefer its going to Viktor. We'll have to see who comes back from last year's Toros team to see what their competition would be -- my guess is they will all be frontcourt players. Justin Bowen was making huge strides at SF the last two months of the season, and would give Viktor a good run for his money.

[Holt's Cat]

The Spurs don't have to sign Williams. Surely he would play somewhere instead of going a year without $ and playing time to reenter the draft on the hope that someone would pick him even after the Spurs thought him unworthy of a roster spot.

[timvp]

Oh, I think Williams would get minutes in the D-League

True, as long as the team is more into developing than winning. For example, BJ Elder > Marcus Williams on the D-League level currently.

[ChumpDumper]

I just took a look at the D-League's expansion draft list. The Toros got off totally easy. Two of the players were waived during the season due to injury, one joined the team a week before the end of the season and another is 30 years old.

And one is Brock Gillespe.

Bowen is the guy I was most interested in keeping.

Teams got to protect 10 players this time around. For some reason Tulsa didn't protect its best players -- maybe they all went to Europe.

[timvp]

I just took a look at the D-League's expansion draft list. The Toros got off totally easy. Two of the players were waived during the season due to injury, one joined the team a week before the end of the season and another is 30 years old.

And one is Brock Gillespe.

Bowen is the guy I was most interested in keeping.

Is it true that the D-League is going to be a lot worse this year talent wise? I've read that a lot of the D-League talent signed in Europe.

[ChumpDumper]

A lot of them did, but there are always players coming back from Europe as well. I imagine the talent level will be diluted a bit by the expansion more than a mass exodus.

We'll see what's left after the training camp cuts.

[yavozerb]

Is it true that the D-League is going to be a lot worse this year talent wise? I've read that a lot of the D-League talent signed in Europe.

What are the average salaries in the D-League?

[DR WU]

I thought he played well today. What is involved in bringing a player over to play for the Austin D-league team? It seems better than leaving them in Europe, because the Spurs own the team and will be teaching and playing the same system as the Spurs.

If he is under contract in Euro, he is "safe" as our property until we offer him a deal. If he is not on our roster, he is anybody's stake in the Dleague. Mahimni is right there, plus, he allows us a reserve big and still run a 14 man roster.

[Darkwaters]

If Marcus Williams never sees a Spurs jersey this season then who would we be interested in bringing in for that 15th roster spot on the cheap? Viktor Sanikidze seems like an excellent option, but the Spurs might prefer to stash him overseas. Who all would we like to see fight it out in camp?

Hassan Adams
Justin Bowen
Derrick Byars
Demetris Nichols
Pops Mensah Bonsu

Are there any decent PGs out there that could be gathered up for cheap?

[objective]

I'm praying that the Spurs sign Sanikidze after the eurobasket minor tourny qualifiers are over.

I'm surprised he's looked as good as he did in SL considering how much time he missed due to injury and the lack of playing time he got when he wasn't hurt over in France and Spain.

Please please please let Marcus Williams sign in Europe and have the Spurs bite the bullet on the luxury tax threshold by carrying 15 players.

[Holt's Cat]

If Marcus Williams never sees a Spurs jersey this season then who would we be interested in bringing in for that 15th roster spot on the cheap? Viktor Sanikidze seems like an excellent option, but the Spurs might prefer to stash him overseas. Who all would we like to see fight it out in camp?

Hassan Adams
Justin Bowen
Derrick Byars
Demetris Nichols
Pops Mensah Bonsu



Devin Brown
Earl Boykins
Jumaine Jones

[ChumpDumper]

There's no need to really care about anything other than tall SFs. Even backup point guard is pretty much a nonstarter since there isn't really anyone available and/or willing to join at this point. If it would be possible to get a bunch of SF projects in training camp, as many as possible, I'm for it.

If we don't sign Viktor, I'm content to wait until training camp. If someone really wows us there, sign him. If not, there will be plenty of players that get waived from other teams just like ! was last season.

[Phenomanul]

If Marcus Williams never sees a Spurs jersey this season then who would we be interested in bringing in for that 15th roster spot on the cheap? Viktor Sanikidze seems like an excellent option, but the Spurs might prefer to stash him overseas. Who all would we like to see fight it out in camp?

Hassan Adams
Justin Bowen
Derrick Byars
Demetris Nichols
Pops Mensah Bonsu

Are there any decent PGs out there that could be gathered up for cheap?

Romel Beck....

:smokin

[TDMVPDPOY]

i say we bring him over, let him fight it out with marcus for that final roster spot....

[Darkwaters]

Early Boykins


:lol Yea right. No thanks.



Devin Brown


If he were affordable I would sign him up in a heartbeat. The problem is that we can't offer him many minutes right now and I'm not sure the coaching staff would want him back anyways.



Romel Beck


He has looked decent playing for Mexico so far and hes 6'7. I haven't watched him much, but it sounds like he seriously frustrated Kobe when they played the US. If that is the case then I definitely think he warrants an invite to camp. I'm just not sure whether he would want to sit in the DLeague for a year or go to an inferior team and actually get on court though.

[Bruno]

Sanikidze only played in the first quarter of today's game against Iceland.
Injury or Doghouse ?
We will see but it bet on an injury. Sanikidze seems to be quite injury prone with his thin frame.

[Cant_Be_Mated]

chode.

hee hee

[SpursfaninGeorgia]

Sanikidze went down with that now familiar ankle injury at the end of the first quarter, as I recall. He actually looked great; strong on the glass and tough defense up to that point, but those fragile legs don't look too steady...he didn't move off the bench the rest of the game.

BTW, I'm a long-time reader of SpursTalk but first-time poster, been a Spurs fan for 18+ years and a GNT (Georgian National Team) fan for the last four years as I've been posted in Georgia. I was thrilled to see the Spurs take a chance on Sanikidze--the kid's a tenacious player who goes 100% all the time, a very energetic albeit raw talent. Shame to see him looking so injury-prone.

I may not be on this board much, but happy to contribute to the Sanikidze conversation as I have high hopes for this kid making the squad at some point and proving not all Georgian ballers are destined to fizzle out like Tskitishvili.

[timvp]

Welcome, SpursfaninGeorgia. Thanks for the information. Hopefully Sanikidze can recover quickly.

That'd be great if you can update us when you have time. Sanikidze news is always tough to come by. Have you heard anything about where he'll be playing next year?

Thanks.

[ChumpDumper]

Hopefully Viktor's ankles will rubberize like Tim's or Dirk's.

[SpursfaninGeorgia]

As to where he'll play next year...this board seems to be the best source as any for news; its all speculation from here as well!

All I've heard is that Estudiantes is considering him rather expendable since they signed Petrius, but I've heard next to nothing on any deals to get him off the roster. Georgian news on international sports is usually second-hand, but I'll let you guys know if I hear anything.

[SpursfaninGeorgia]

BTW, for those interested and with too much time on their hands, you can check out Vik's Hi5 page (like a European myspace or facebook, I guess) -- pretty funny stuff:

http://www.hi5.com/friend/26219707--Vik--Profile-html

Maybe some brave soul could just ask him directly where he's playing next year!

[ChumpDumper]

:lol This guy is a goofball. I can't wait to see his HEB commercial.

[xcoriate]

:lmao beno mk2?

[Bruno]

http://www.clubestudiantes.com/frontend/clubestudiantes/noticia.php?id_noticia=1383&id_seccion=116&tree_pos=sub_1_0_3.sub_1_1_1.sub_1_1_3.

Sanikidze isn't on next year Estudiantes roster. I don't know where he will play next year but it looks like it won't be with them.

[pad300]

BTW, for those interested and with too much time on their hands, you can check out Vik's Hi5 page (like a European myspace or facebook, I guess) -- pretty funny stuff:

http://www.hi5.com/friend/26219707--Vik--Profile-html

Maybe some brave soul could just ask him directly where he's playing next year!

You sure this is him?

"Other Languages
Chinese, English, French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Slovenian, Spanish Education
Doctorate "

He's a 23 year old professional basketball player who speaks NINE languages (remember he also speaks Georgian, that's other listed above) and has a Doctorate (PhD?)...Either he should be doing something more useful with his life than playing basketball, or he's padding his resume...

[Darkwaters]

http://www.clubestudiantes.com/frontend/clubestudiantes/noticia.php?id_noticia=1383&id_seccion=116&tree_pos=sub_1_0_3.sub_1_1_1.sub_1_1_3.

Sanikidze isn't on next year Estudiantes roster. I don't know where he will play next year but it looks like it won't be with them.

Maybe he is in contract negotiations with San Antonio?

[wildbill2u]

If we don't sign Williams, doesn't that make him a free agent that we can't control by sending him to the D league or to Europe? Couldn't he sign anywhere he was wanted?

Is the injury to Sanikidze recently a re-injury of the time he went down in the Summer League? Sometimes ankles are hard to rehabilitate.

[T Park]

it would be nice to sign both, and put Williams in Austin, and put Viktor on the Spurs.

[Darkwaters]

If we don't sign Williams, doesn't that make him a free agent that we can't control by sending him to the D league or to Europe? Couldn't he sign anywhere he was wanted?


If the Spurs and Williams mutually agree to not pursue a contract then his rights are retained by the Spurs and Williams is free to pursue employement (theoretically) anywhere with a non-NBA team. The theoretical aspect is that we're not sure if he could technically sign a D League contract with the Toros independent of the Spurs. The Spurs might have to renounce his rights entirely to let him play with the Toros on a D League contract (which leaves him off our 15 man roster) and leave the door open for other teams to call him up and sign him. Now, he can most definitely go to Europe for a year or so. This is the exact same situation as Tiago Splitter is in now and Ian Mahinmi just came out of. College players have been known to go overseas for a time and then return (Guillermo Diaz).


it would be nice to sign both, and put Williams in Austin, and put Viktor on the Spurs.

Unfortunately, after the Mahinmi signing we only have one roster spot left. If it is legal to let Williams sign a contract with the Toros (at D League money) then this might be accomplished. Otherwise we would have to get rid of somebody else or could only have one of the two.

[ducks]

Unfortunately, after the Mahinmi signing we only have one roster spot left. Unless we want to get rid of somebody else we can only have one of the two.

beno can be cut

[Darkwaters]

beno can be cut

We all know the Spurs won't go with just 2 PGs. And secondly, I don't think they'd be open to letting Barry play the 2nd or even 3rd string PG role either.

[SpursfaninGeorgia]

Just returned from the Georgia-Finland game; Sanikidze was in team gear but didn't step on the court, not even for the shoot-around. Hopefully the ankle heals quickly.

As to where he'll play next year, I talked to a guy associated with the GNT (sorry can't say who) who said he's expecting to play in Spain next year, though weren't sure if it would be for Estudiantes or not. They did say, however, that it has been made clear to him that the Spurs DO NOT intend to bring him over this year--that its very certain he'll stay in Europe this year.

For what its worth.

[BronxCowboy]

That's OK, there wouldn't be many minutes for him this year anyway. But I would like to see him playing for the Spurs eventually.

[BronxCowboy]

Oh, and here's wishing him a complete recovery.

[objective]

damn

[timvp]

Just returned from the Georgia-Finland game; Sanikidze was in team gear but didn't step on the court, not even for the shoot-around. Hopefully the ankle heals quickly.

As to where he'll play next year, I talked to a guy associated with the GNT (sorry can't say who) who said he's expecting to play in Spain next year, though weren't sure if it would be for Estudiantes or not. They did say, however, that it has been made clear to him that the Spurs DO NOT intend to bring him over this year--that its very certain he'll stay in Europe this year.

For what its worth.Nice going :tu

Not a huge surprise that the Spurs would keep him overseas for another year. Hopefully he can play in summer league next year and then if he does well, that'd be a good stepping stone onto making the team. I just hope that he can get playing time this year wherever he ends up.

[ChumpDumper]

Thanks for the update. I can quit pining now and just wait for training camp to fill that last roster spot.

[Streakyshooter08]

Are there any news about him? I think it is not good, that he has not signed with a team at all. I hope he continues to develop because I liked some things I saw at the Summerleage.

[Indazone]

Spanoulis before Sani! LOL

[Bruno]

Are there any news about him? I think it is not good, that he has not signed with a team at all. I hope he continues to develop because I liked some things I saw at the Summerleage.

AFAIK, he is still without a team. I haven't seen something about him since the false info about him signing with Cologne. I don't have a clue why he hasn't signed with a team so far, if someone has an info about that...

[timvp]

This has to be a horrible sign for Sanikidze. He's nowhere to be found in Europe and he's not on the Toro's radar. Perhaps he's injured again, which isn't a stretch seeing as he's had a lot of injuries in the past.

Either way, the Sanikidze train has stalled.

[objective]

any updates at all?

Or has he spent the last 6 months doing nothing ?

his euro-myspace page is set to private and shows his location as being Georgia

[T Park]

This is a shame if he isn't playing. IMO the most impressive of all the players in the summer league.

He could've been the long awaited three that the Spurs have needed..

[Mr. Body]

The Spurs traded a 2nd round pick for this guy, not a huge deal.

What's amazing is, post Parker and Manu, for the vaunted overseas pipeline, the Spurs may wind up with exactly 000000 players: Javtokas, Scola, Sanikidze, Mahinmi, Splitter.

With timvp a bit down on Mahinmi lately and Splitter at least in fantasies traded. Hopefully we can see him in uniform at least next year.

[Bruno]

I've found back Sanikidze. :elephant

Sanikidze has played today in Georgian league, a very weak league. I think it's his first game of the season.

http://www.gbf.ge/news.php?m=news&lang=eng#


Sanikidze (15 pts. 14 rbs. 4 blcks. 2 asts. 2 stls)


As for the San Antonio Spurs draftee Viqtor Sanikidze, the forward was great on defence and made two crusial long shots in the last quarter.


EDIT : In fact, it was his second game.
Sanikidze played a game one week ago (7 pts. 9 rbs. 1 stl. 1 blck). He then missed two games because of an injury before coming back today.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

:tu

[T Park]

Sounds like a CIA placement.

[intlspurshk]

All the news about him is injuries.

[exstatic]

Sounds like a CIA placement.
Sounds like he's found his level of competition. Why hide him? He's the Spurs property. It strikes me that if they thought he was worth bringing over next year, they'd either have him in the DLeague where the coaching staff has access to him right up the road and he's playing against NBA prospects, or they'd have him in a better European league.

[Gino2882]

Any updates on Viktor? Anyone know why he isn't on the Toros this season?

[boutons_]

Seems to a real balla, but injury prone.

[K-State Spur]

Any updates on Viktor? Anyone know why he isn't on the Toros this season?

correct me if i'm wrong, but he'd have to go on the 15-man roster to play in the d-league and remain spurs' property (a la Ian), wouldn't he?

[xcoriate]

Sanikidze (15 pts. 14 rbs. 4 blcks. 2 asts. 2 stls)

That's a pretty nice line from the SF position even in a weak league, he isn't a scorer and never will be. The blocks and boards are nice.

I think the Spurs need to have him at training camp and then d-league him next year. Hiding a player you hold the rights to as some are suggesting doesn't really make any sense. There's nothing to lose by showing him off if he is a player.

[Bruno]

That's a pretty nice line from the SF position even in a weak league, he isn't a scorer and never will be.

It's possible that he plays PF in this league.

His stats for his third game :
Sanikidze (18 pts. 8 rbs. 3 asts. 2 stls)

I don't know what happened in Sanikidze life (maybe an injury) but it's kinda disappointing to see him ending up in the georgian league.
I hope he will soon play at an higher level. The only positive is that he gets a lot of playing time for the first time since 2005.

[TDMVPDPOY]

doesnt he have ankle problems

only reason spurs probably stashin him in euro so other teams dunno about him when trades comes up

[tav1]

Why is everyone so high on Sanikidze? I wrote him off a couple years back--does he have a legitimate chance of making the NBA. Maybe I'm ignorant, but I assumed that ship had sailed.

Aside from Mahinmi and Splitter, I once had hopes that Javtokas could be a 5th big for the Spurs. But he's not even playing that much in Europe and looks like a lost caused too.

[Mr. Body]

Sanikidze is about as good as Karaulov at this point.

[ChumpDumper]

He played pretty well in summer league. I guess we'll see if he shows up again in July.

[objective]

I don't know what happened in Sanikidze life (maybe an injury) but it's kinda disappointing to see him ending up in the georgian league.


I've suspected for awhile now that Sanikidze has some off-the-court personality issues.

After Newman refused to even play him in some SL games even though he showed he was legit enough for summer ball, after Sanikidze couldnt-or-wouldn't play for any euro teams for months, finally playing in his homeland for what is no doubt peanuts compared to what he could have made elsewhere if he had worked hard enough . . .

There's probably something going on with him that isn't basketball.

[Bruno]

I've suspected for awhile now that Sanikidze has some off-the-court personality issues.


I think more at injury troubles.

Sanikidze missed the whole 2005-2006 year because of a ankle injury.
He tweaks his ankle twice last summer : one time with Spurs SL team and another time with Georgian NT.
He has played in Georgian championship since 4 games and has still missed one game because of an injury.
It's possible that he has a lot of trouble to stay healthy. This summer, Sanikidze was quite good with Spurs SL team and Georgian NT when he was healthy.

[objective]

I agree, he was quite good with the Spurs summer league, hell I thought he was a breath of fresh air with how he played.

But he got at least 1 DNP-CD during the summer league if I remember correctly, during the first summer league that was broadcast on the net (vegas?). I remember wondering why Newman would play summer league scrubs and keep Sanikidze, Spurs property, on the bench all game long. Maybe it was injury, though he looked fine the rest of the games. Or maybe he was late flying in to begin with the team, or maybe something else.

[Bruno]

http://www.eurobasket.com/geo/geo.asp

Eurobasket Georgia made an interview with Viktor Sanikidze on February 12th in Tbilisi. So, read on!

Q. Viktor, first question I want to ask you is pretty rhetorical and I need your short answer. Let me ask you what are you doing in Tbilisi?
V.S. I had rehabilitation period for two months. Now I started practice with Dinamo Tbilisi and I am waiting for the final answer of physicians to confirm that I am fully recovered.

Q. How seriously you were injured?
V.S. Pretty seriously. I went in Germany for try out and on one practice I didn't feel good on my knee. So, I checked my knee with German doctors and they told me to stop playing, otherwise I would risk my career.

Q. There are many gossips about your current team. You played this round in Georgian League with Dinamo Tbilisi. Koln 99ers got bankrupted and you left from Estudiantes as well. Will Spurs Free Agent player end current season in Georgian League?
V.S. I don't think so because for me is better to try my forces in any better teams in Europe, just to end up this season.

Q. Last year Georgian compassionates were mad about your brief playing minutes in Estudiantes. How you comment on that?
V.S. I didn't like that too. (Smiles) There were many reasons that I was not playing much. First of all I arrived in Spain later because I was called in Georgian National Team. Than I talked with general manager and assistant coach and they didn't know why I was not playing. I thought that I was not good on practices but nobody mentioned that to me. Afterwards team management fired a head coach and assistant coach went up to the head coach position. He gave me more minutes than. Later I had a surgery on my appendix.

Q. Your brief comment on qualification games with National Team?
V.S. First of all I liked a coach. He trusted me and he let me play pretty much. I am always proud to play in my National Team. We disappointed every Georgian and that is our fault. We had not to lose against National Team of Iceland. There were many little things on that game but I don't even want to remind that. I really think that Georgia deserves Division A. and we will make it happen.
RE: Like you did it on U20 right?
V.S. (Smiles) Exactly.

Q. 42nd overall pick in 2004, MVP of U20 European Championships, key player of the Georgian National Team. Is it you Viktor?
V.S. I guess. Ya, that's me... (Laughs)

Q. Viktor, do you have any ideas so far regarding your future club from the next season?
V.S. I do not really care my future European team at this time, as I am very focused on NBA Summer League for San Antonio Spurs.

Q. You are fifth player in the NBA from Georgia; if we include Iokovos Tsakalidis whose origin is Georgia. What do you think who will be the next one in Georgians list in the NBA?
V.S. I think that Manuchar Markoishvili and Giorgi Tsintsadze because its their last chance to get drafted as they will not be eligible next year. I think that they both will be late second round picks.

Q. What about Giorgi Shermadini?
V.S. Giorgi is very talented player with bright future. I am not really familiar about his plans, but if he puts his name on draft board he has to make it.

Q. And when we should expect to see Viktor Sanikidze hosting the games in AT&T Center?
V.S. I think that I will make it happen this year. (Laughs)

Well, thank you very much Viktor. I wish every success in your LIFE and career and hope to see you next time in San Antonio.

[Bruno]

Now we have some answer abut what happened to Sanikidze. He has really a hard time with all these injuries. We will see what he will do with Spurs SL team.

Sanikidze doesn't play this week end with his team in Georgian league. Maybe he is on his way to a better team in Europe.

[Ocotillo]

Thanks Bruno. Appendix, knee?!? Hope he doesn't turn into an injury prone sort.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i think his still worth a try in the summer see what happens

plz dont let him be a busts like that euro dude the nuggets picked a few seasons ago with t here top10 pick

[wildbill2u]

I used the Spurs website contact point some time ago to ask about Sanikidze and where he was playing and if not, why not.

I got no response. i wonder if this is simply bad public relations from the Spurs office or if they had no ideas as to his status. The latter would be disappointing because it would mean they aren't keeping up with this player.

[timvp]

Awesome find, Bruno. Good to see that there was a reason he disappeared.

Even though I haven't seen much of him play, I've been impressed. Good size and good athleticism. Injuries seem to be an ongoing issue with him. He's still only 21-years-old so his future could still be bright if he can get healthy and stay healthy.

This upcoming summer league will be a huge one for Sanikidze. Last year he played well but he inexplicably didn't play that much. This year he has to earn minutes. If he can show anything during the summer league, it'd be nice to put him on the Toros plan starting next season.

[whottt]

This upcoming summer league will be a huge one for Sanikidze. Last year he played well but he inexplicably didn't play that much. This year he has to earn minutes. If he can show anything during the summer league, it'd be nice to put him on the Toros plan starting next season.


This kid has some nice skills...I honestly think they were hiding him so no would ask for him in a trade or anything like that.


That's the only thing that makes sense about him not getting minutes. He played well, he was the best looking player on the summer league team.

[Holt's Cat]

Well, it's good to have an international prospect at a position other than the 4 or 5.

Hopefully they find some quality draft and stash prospects with their second rounders this year. Maybe this time they can get it right and find that domestic sleeper with their 1st rounder.

[whottt]

I used the Spurs website contact point some time ago to ask about Sanikidze and where he was playing and if not, why not.

I got no response. i wonder if this is simply bad public relations from the Spurs office or if they had no ideas as to his status. The latter would be disappointing because it would mean they aren't keeping up with this player.


This is just the way the Spurs do it...you couldn't find much of anything about their plans for Manu prior to their decision to bring him over...

They didn't talk about Javtokas. They brought him over and operated on him after his injury and still didn't talk about him. You'd think they'd have wanted the PR, as what they did for him was pretty nice.


The Spurs just don't talk much about their overseas prospects that much unless people press them for that info...Scola is the one exception to that rule.

[Holt's Cat]

Javtokas would play for $0.20 next year.

[Mr. Body]

He's a walking disaster zone. I expect renal failure next year.

There's also a suggestion of the Udrih in him, hopping from team to team. Hopefully that's all injuries and not attitude. His 'I like this coach, didn't like that coach' bits aren't appealing.

That said, he's not a bust and could never be. 2nd rounders don't bust. We'll see him this summer.

[Bruno]

I used the Spurs website contact point some time ago to ask about Sanikidze and where he was playing and if not, why not.

I got no response. i wonder if this is simply bad public relations from the Spurs office or if they had no ideas as to his status. The latter would be disappointing because it would mean they aren't keeping up with this player.

I don't see how Sanikidze could say "I am very focused on NBA Summer League for San Antonio Spurs" if he or his agent wasn't in contact with Spurs.

RC Buford called Mahinmi each week when he was in Europe. I can see Spurs doing the same thing with Sanikidze. It doesn't mean that they see him as a good prospect but it costs nothing to stay in touch with Sanikidze.

[Holt's Cat]

Maybe the internets have reached Georgia.

[ChumpDumper]

This kid has some nice skills...I honestly think they were hiding him so no would ask for him in a trade or anything like that.


That's the only thing that makes sense about him not getting minutes. He played well, he was the best looking player on the summer league team.Maybe he got injured there too.

[objective]

glad to hear that it does seem to be all injuries that are his problem.

Hopefully he's healthy enough for summer league.

[ChumpDumper]

There isn't much keeping the Spurs from taking him on next season as far as the roster and payroll are concerned.

[whottt]

Maybe he got injured there too.

Maybe...didn't look injured to me...looked like the best guy on the squad and then they wouldn't play him much more than spot minutes. Plus I am pretty sure he went to the Georgian Nat'l team after summer league...


I think the Spurs were trying to swing a deal with Scola at that point(or to move Butler) and didn't want teams asking for this kid as part of the deal.

I just get the feeling the Spurs were trying to hide him...for whatever reason.


There were clearly guys he should have been getting minutes over on that Summer League team...

[ChumpDumper]

The Spurs traded Butler during the Vegas SL. He played the last two games for Houston. There was a whole other summer league for the Spurs the following week.

[whottt]

The Spurs traded Butler during the Vegas SL. He played the last two games for Houston. There was a whole other summer league for the Spurs the following week.


Yeah but by that time he wasn't playing at all...in fact I think he wasn't even there for most of that second league. By that time he might actually have been hurt...although I do think he still went back and scrimmaged with the Georgian Nat'l team.


I am talking about when he was here, before we'd done that trade. Even then he wasn't getting many minutes when he clearly deserved them over some of the guys that were...and he couldn't have been too hurt because he was getting a little bit of PT in games still.

But it was like he had that one good game where he looked really good...I think it was his first or second game, and after that he didn't get more than a minute or two of PT at a time.

It was like they saw what he potentially could be and didn't want anyone else to see it....because if they do any trades he might be asked to be thrown in on the deal...

It's just one less thing for them to worry about.


I'm not saying that is what happened...but it's what makes sense to me about the way they handled him.....I know for certain his minutes were being limited when he was still capable of playing, and not because he wasn't showing anything in the court either.

[objective]

he didn't even get any minutes in the first Vegas game, don't know why. Maybe he was late in joining the squad?

[ChumpDumper]

I think its more a case of his being low on the priority list for the Spurs that summer. His rights were wrapped up and the Spurs could count on his playing in Europe this season. Marcus Williams' situation was completely the opposite - he wasn't going to Europe under any circumstances, so the Spurs had to use SL to make a decision about him as well as James White.

We'll see what happens this summer. Hopefully they go back to Vegas so I'll have an excuse to go there.

[whottt]

he didn't even get any minutes in the first Vegas game, don't know why. Maybe he was late in joining the squad?


Yeah but he got some in the second game I think...that was the nice game he had IIRC...which quickly identified him as one of the non-stiffs on the team....I mean he was fast, he was jumping around.


Maybe they just didn't like the way he was practicing...


But you know...this guy was over here for the better of a season a couple of years ago, I know he was injured, but he was here long past the injury date, and I think he did workout with the team some...from what I have seen this guy clearly has NBA athleticism...so it makes you wonder why they aren't doing more with him...

[whottt]

I think its more a case of his being low on the priority list for the Spurs that summer. His rights were wrapped up and the Spurs could count on his playing in Europe this season. Marcus Williams' situation was completely the opposite - he wasn't going to Europe under any circumstances, so the Spurs had to use SL to make a decision about him as well as James White.

We'll see what happens this summer. Hopefully they go back to Vegas so I'll have an excuse to go there.


So then why did they bring him over?

Progress check? If so then what I am saying still makes sense.


I think the Spurs have a clear track record of not wanting anyone else to know what they have before they do...

[ChumpDumper]

So then why did they bring him over?

Progress check?Sure.
I think the Spurs have a clear track record of not wanting anyone else to know what they have before they do...Then they blew it because message board posters can tell he is good by watching him play 14 minutes on the internets.

[whottt]

Sure.Then they blew it because message board posters can tell he is good by watching him play 14 minutes on the internets.

I can, most can't...and if he'd gotten more than 14 minutes maybe the lesser intellects and talent evaluators would have been able to see it as well...but since he didn't they don't and I have to say the Spurs made the right call.



I can easily tell he was better 99% of the other guys...that got more PT and didn't make the team. S'not hard to do.


Then again...I was one of the guys that concluded it was time to cut ties with Jackie Butler after watching him alternately pushed to the verge of a heart attack after 2 mins of PT or playing like it was a YMCA game...and not many saw that...other than the Spurs that is.

[SpursFan0728]

... he wasn't going to Europe under any circumstances, so the Spurs had to use SL to make a decision about him as well as James White.

allow me to ask an off topic question...where is James White now?
What is the update on him :fro

[ChumpDumper]

I can, most can't...and if he'd gotten more than 14 minutes maybe the lesser intellects and talent evaluators would have been able to see it as well...but since he didn't they don't and I have to say the Spurs made the right call. :lol You weren't the only one who commented on his play -- and there were a couple of people in the Cox Pavilion who are paid to do that kind of thing.




I can easily tell he was better 99% of the other guys...that got more PT and didn't make the team. S'not hard to do.Not hard at all. Nice contradiction.



Then again...I was one of the guys that concluded it was time to cut ties with Jackie Butler after watching him alternately pushed to the verge of a heart attack after 2 mins of PT or playing like it was a YMCA game...and not many saw that...other than the Spurs that is.It was easy to tell he didn't give a crap about defense. The only question was why the Spurs were playing him so much. We got our answer.

[ChumpDumper]

allow me to ask an off topic question...where is James White now?
What is the update on him :froHe's doing ok on a Turkish team. Unless he makes some kind of breakthrough, this is probably the right level of play for him.

http://www.euroleague.net/competition/players/showplayer?pcode=THC

[picnroll]

I wonder if Butler hadn't sucked in SL and shown more, and if the Spurs could have unloaded him outright, would they have retained Scola? Was Scola the price to dump Butler or would they have moved Scola anyway, maybe for a pick?

[ChumpDumper]

I think Scola was gone the minute the Spurs drafted Splitter. They just couldn't get anything more than a second rounder for him. Fortunately, the Rockets offered just a little more.

[timvp]

I still can't believe the Spurs used Scola to salary dump an expiring contract that was worth less than half the MLE. To this day I still can't justify it.

Regarding Butler, I still think it was a pretty good risk by the Spurs. Sure he ended up sucking ... well actually, he didn't end up sucking he just ended up quiting basketball after he signed that contract. Getting a young talented big for less than Francisco Elson got was a good gamble.

The gamble just didn't pay off.

[picnroll]

I think Scola was gone the minute the Spurs drafted Splitter. They just couldn't get anything more than a second rounder for him. Fortunately, the Rockets offered just a little more.
Probably. Minus dumping Butler, in retrospect I would much rather have Scola than Bonner. Scola and his contract could probably be traded in the off season with good return. Bonner you'd have to likely give to get rid of.

[timvp]

With Scola, even if his value was low at the time, the best thing to do was to sign him and then trade him if he didn't work out. There's no way that a signed and sealed Scola would have been worth a second round pick. Right now the Rockets would laugh if a team offered up a second round pick for Scola.

Oh well ... I guess eventually I'll have to forget about that amazingly stupid trade.

[ChumpDumper]

I still can't believe the Spurs used Scola to salary dump an expiring contract that was worth less than half the MLE. To this day I still can't justify it.That's ok, we don't pay the bills either. Salary dumps rarely make basketball sense.


Regarding Butler, I still think it was a pretty good risk by the Spurs. Sure he ended up sucking ... well actually, he didn't end up sucking he just ended up quiting basketball after he signed that contract. Getting a young talented big for less than Francisco Elson got was a good gamble.

The gamble just didn't pay off.He sucked. Using a guy you would never sign to get rid of a guy that sucks is ok. I wish we had gotten a little more, but there were time constraints.

[picnroll]

That's why I think Butler was a BIG part of it. Without dumping Butler the Spurs would have been hamstrung in making any moves.

Blame Brown. He's the one who gave Pop the good report on Butler.

[Holt's Cat]

With Scola, even if his value was low at the time, the best thing to do was to sign him and then trade him if he didn't work out. There's no way that a signed and sealed Scola would have been worth a second round pick. Right now the Rockets would laugh if a team offered up a second round pick for Scola.

Oh well ... I guess eventually I'll have to forget about that amazingly stupid trade.

*sniff*

Starters
1 Parker
2 Finley
3 Bowen
4 Duncan
5 Thomas

Bench
1 Stoudamire
2 Ginobili
2/3 Barry
2/3 Udoka
4 Scola
4 Horry
5 Oberto

Oh well, back to regular forum programming.

[ChumpDumper]

With Scola, even if his value was low at the time, the best thing to do was to sign him and then trade him if he didn't work out.Sign him to half the MLE AND keep sucky Butler?

Oh well ... I guess eventually I'll have to forget about that amazingly stupid trade.Impossible.

[whottt]

I still can't believe the Spurs used Scola to salary dump an expiring contract that was worth less than half the MLE. To this day I still can't justify it.

Regarding Butler, I still think it was a pretty good risk by the Spurs. Sure he ended up sucking ... well actually, he didn't end up sucking he just ended up quiting basketball after he signed that contract. Getting a young talented big for less than Francisco Elson got was a good gamble.

The gamble just didn't pay off.



Blame John Paxon...

And personally...I like him more on the Rockets than I do on the Cavs...


I know it was a longshot that TMac or Yao would get hurt this season...but still...

I figure Pop had his reasons for okaying that trade.

[Holt's Cat]

I figure Pop had his reasons for okaying that trade.

Did Pop OK passing on Josh Howard?

[timvp]

That's ok, we don't pay the bills either. Salary dumps rarely make basketball sense.The point is you don't salary dump a player making less than half the MLE who has an expiring contract. That's not only unheard of, I don't think any team would even think of doing that.

It'd be worse than if in the summer the Spurs traded Splitter and Bonner for a second round pick ... because at least Bonner's contract isn't expiring.


He sucked. Using a guy you would never sign to get rid of a guy that sucks is ok. I wish we had gotten a little more, but there were time constraints.Butler sucked because he quit. He retired when he cashed in. That happens sometimes when you sign a guy cheaply because he is a noted head case.

And regarding signing Scola, it took the Rockets all of like three days to do what the Spurs couldn't do in four years or whatever it was.

[Holt's Cat]

And regarding signing Scola, it took the Rockets all of like three days to do what the Spurs couldn't do in four years or whatever it was.

Not to mention that he was signed for a rather reasonable contract.

[ChumpDumper]

The point is you don't salary dump a player making less than half the MLE who has an expiring contract. That's not only unheard of, I don't think any team would even think of doing that.Luxury tax. It has brought about all manner of new trades, especially since teams know exactly what the threshold is now.
Butler suckedAgreed.
And regarding signing Scola, it took the Rockets all of like three days to do what the Spurs couldn't do in four years or whatever it was.Yes. Contract buyouts work that way.

[timvp]

Sign him to half the MLE AND keep sucky Butler?Or not re-sign Bonner or *gasp* trading Elson. Elson had a bigger contract than Butler.


Impossible.Link to the last time I complained about the Scola trade? I've let it go ... even though Scola is actually a lot better than I thought he'd be.

[whottt]

Did Pop OK passing on Josh Howard?


I don't know...did you?


I'm sayin' yes to both.

[ChumpDumper]

Or not re-sign Bonner *gasp* trade Elson. Elson had a bigger contract than Butler.They had no plans for Scola or Butler. Why sign/keep them?


Link to the last time I complained about the Scola trade? I've let it go ... even though Scola is actually a lot better than I thought he'd be.Yes, you have proven you have let it go today.

Congratulations.

[picnroll]

Butler's contract was x2 given the luxury tax. Everyone is just going to have to deal with the fact that that's a line in the sand for the Spurs.

[timvp]

They had no plans for Scola or Butler. Why sign/keep them?What were their big plans for Elson? :lol


Yes, you have proven you have let it go today.

Congratulations.You want me to bury my head in the sand and point to won-loss records as to why the trade was a success like you and whottt?

"The Rockets won't win the championship so the Scola trade was a success!"

[picnroll]

Bonner was targeted to be the big that could shoot the three and spread the floor. He's not panning out is the problem.

[timvp]

Butler's contract was x2 given the luxury tax.And Elson's wasn't? And Bonner's isn't?

[picnroll]

They hadn't given up on Elson. This was his second year and several have taken a second year to adjust. Elson didn't make the grade.

[timvp]

They hadn't given up on Elson. This was his second year and several have taken a second year to adjust. Elson didn't make the grade.They should have given up on Elson before they even signed him ... but I guess that's a topic to hijack another thread with.

[whottt]

"The Rockets won't win the championship so the Scola trade was a success!"


What better trade was available? I know you think giving Cleveland a scoring PF was the wise thing to do...I think you are making a grevious error in judgement there.


And for all you kow Scola was demanding the trade...

[ChumpDumper]

What were their big plans for Elson? :lolPlaying him. Which is much more than they had planned for Scola or Butler.


You want me to bury my head in the sand and point to won-loss records as to why the trade was a success like you and whottt?Glad to see you're over it.


"The Rockets won't win the championship so the Scola trade was a success!"I've said it was a bad trade from a basketball standpoint, but so what? Every team except the Knicks do these things to get under he luxury tax. It's a reality I have accepted. You can't say "you just don't make that deal" because teams do these kinds of trades with regularity. Even Houston.

[whottt]

Elson > Butler

[timvp]

What better trade was available? If no better trade was available, you sign him and trade him at a later date. Would the Rockets trade him for a second rounder right now?


Playing him.Thanks for admitting that error.


Glad to see you're over it.If you wouldn't have challenged my take, that would have been the end of it. The logic of "all teams do salary dumps" can't be the catchall. There are good salary dumps and there are bad salary dumps. This was a bad one.


I've said it was a bad trade from a basketball standpoint, but so what? Every team except the Knicks do these things to get under he luxury tax. It's a reality I have accepted. You can't say "you just don't make that deal" because teams do these kinds of trades with regularity. Even Houston.So because the trade was a salary dump I can't have an opinion on whether it was a good salary dump or a bad salary dump? I just have to accept it?

[timvp]

Elson and Butler are the same crap because you can't win a championship by depending on either one.Fixed.

[ChumpDumper]

If no better trade was available, you sign him and trade him at a later date.And pay the luxury tax for both him and Butler. Good idea, Zeke.


Thanks for admitting that error.Thanks for admitting that was actually the case.,


If you wouldn't have challenged my take, that would have been the end of it. The logic of "all teams do salary dumps" can't be the catchall. There are good salary dumps and there are bad salary dumps. This was a bad one.So now it's my fault you aren't over it? Most salary dumps are bad basketball trades.


So because the trade was a salary dump I can't have an opinion on whether it was a good salary dump or a bad salary dump? I just have to accept it?No, because that would mean you are over it.

[whottt]

Fixed.


Don't force me to bump threads about you lamenting the loss of Butler...


One of them is in the NBA..and one isn't.

[whottt]

What makes you think signing Scola was an option...

How do you know he wasn't demanding the trade and threatening to make himself unavailable to the Spurs...there was plenty of evidence that he might have been doing just that.

In that case this was the smart trade...on top of all that...the dude aint all that.



and :lol @ you thinking his trade value would have been increased playing under Pop

Because that happens all the time.

[timvp]

And pay the luxury tax for both him and Butler. Good idea, Zeke.Do you even know how the luxury tax works, Ghost Writer?


Thanks for admitting that was actually the case.,Thanks for the comma.


So now it's my fault you aren't over it? Most salary dumps are bad basketball trades.You can't admit there are bad salary dumps and there are good salary dumps? I didn't like the Malik Rose salary dump but that was a successful salary dump. The Rasho Nesterovic salary dump was a fantastic salary dump. The Jackie Butler salary dump? Not so much.


No, because that would mean you are over it.You are obviously over it. After Scola didn't pan out you and whottt look like geniuses. Props to both of you. It's not like Scola is putting up better numbers than any bigman next to Duncan since David Robinson.

[Holt's Cat]

Fortunately the Spurs know how to consistently find talent in the draft because they are rather good at giving it away.

[timvp]

Don't force me to bump threads about you lamenting the loss of Butler...


One of them is in the NBA..and one isn't.ROFL. If Elson didn't have a contract he'd be playing for Rotterdam Basket Racing. Elson sucked because he sucked. Butler sucked because he kinda sucked but more because he quit the game of basketball. It's pretty hard to play in the NBA if you quit playing basketball.



What makes you think signing Scola was an option...

How do you know he wasn't demanding the trade and threatening to make himself unavailable to the Spurs...there was plenty of evidence that he might have been doing just that.Link to evidence?


In that case this was the smart trade...on top of all that...the dude aint all that.How was it a smart trade? And you are on record as saying Scola is better than Kurt Thomas. So a player who is better than Kurt Thomas the Spurs trade for a second round pick, but Kurt Thomas himself the Spurs trade a first rounder for?

Nice logic :tu


and :lol @ you thinking his trade value would have been increased playing under Pop

Because that happens all the time.Would the Rockets trade him for a second round pick right now? Yes or no?

[ChumpDumper]

Do you even know how the luxury tax works, Ghost Writer?Yes. How can you say with confidence in July that someone would step up and take the salaries of Butler, Udrih and Scola during the season for no salary in return?


You can't admit there are bad salary dumps and there are good salary dumps? I didn't like the Malik Rose salary dump but that was a successful salary dump. The Rasho Nesterovic salary dump was a fantastic salary dump. The Jackie Butler salary dump? Not so much.Sure, but so what? The simple truth is they are now a staple of NBA trades. Signing Scola just to hope to dump him later is a ridiculous idea on its face, so if the Spurs were going to do anything with him, that was the time to do it.


You are obviously over it. After Scola didn't pan out you and whottt look like geniuses. Props to both of you. It's not like Scola is putting up better numbers than any bigman next to Duncan since David Robinson.I know the favorite pastime of many on this board is playing "I told you so" and "what if" with Jack, Malik, Speedy, Hedo, Rasho, etc. The latest object of that obsession is Scola. I'm not that big a fan of any of it.

He's a good basketball player. It wasn't a good basketball trade.

So what?

[whottt]

ROFL. If Elson didn't have a contract he'd be playing for Rotterdam Basket Racing. Elson sucked because he sucked. Butler sucked because he kinda sucked but more because he quit the game of basketball. It's pretty hard to play in the NBA if you quit playing basketball.


Link to evidence?

How about a link to you considering all the shit Scola was talking...would that do?




How was it a smart trade? And you are on record as saying Scola is better than Kurt Thomas. So a player who is better than Kurt Thomas the Spurs trade for a second round pick, but Kurt Thomas himself the Spurs trade a first rounder for?

Nice logic :tu


I wouldn't have given up a first round and Elson for Scola either...

I say Scola is better than Thomas because he's younger...

Although I am reconsidering my Thomas position after seeing him play.




Would the Rockets trade him for a second round pick right now? Yes or no?


Hey...I could have told you that putting him in Adelman's system was going to up his value...unfortunately our head caoching spot was filled...

[The Truth #6]

Is it too much of a stretch to think we should have just signed Scola instead of Bonner? The FO was crazy if they thought they had another Horry, which is a ridiculous box to put Bonner in.

We need another low post scorer and Scola would have been a good fit.

The assumption that Scola wasn't going to fit here makes no sense. The FO was high on his basketball skills for several years and then all of a sudden he isn't a good fit. That seems like the Spurs PR and I don't know why fans accept it so easily.

Anyway, as for Viktor I don't know why they would limit his minutes to hide him. We already drafted him. What's the point of hiding him now?

[picnroll]

It's June 1st. Begin with the premise that has Holt saying "I want the payroll under the luxury tax by the trade deadline or you're all in the shitcan". Now make your moves.

[timvp]

Yes. How can you say with confidence in July that someone would step up and take the salaries of Butler, Udrih and Scola during the season for no salary in return?So they were going to get worse?


Sure, but so what?So what? How is that even a retort?

Scola turned out better than you thought. "So what?" The trade was a bad trade. "So what?"

Tough to argue against that reasoning.


Signing Scola just to hope to dump him later is a ridiculous idea on its face, so if the Spurs were going to do anything with him, that was the time to do it.How is anything ridiculous compared to the sell low technique the Spurs used. Scola was at his lowest point value wise. And the main reason for that is the Spurs f'ed around with him for so long and talked trash about him in the media for years.

In what area of trading does selling something at its lowest possible point ever make sense? The moment you sign Scola to an NBA contract his value sky rockets.


I know the favorite pastime of many on this board is playing "I told you so" and "what if" with Jack, Malik, Speedy, Hedo, Rasho, etc. The latest object of that obsession is Scola. I'm not that big a fan of any of it.You're not a big fan of ChumpDumper pulling out the Chuck Hayes card? :)


He's a good basketball player. It wasn't a good basketball trade.It wasn't a basketball trade so it can't be questioned. Got it :tu


So what?You got me there.

[timvp]

It's June 1st. Begin with the premise that has Holt saying "I want the payroll under the luxury tax by the trade deadline or you're all in the shitcan". Now make your moves.First you laugh at Holt. And then you show Holt that the Spurs have been over the luxury threshold plenty of times ... including last season. If the Thomas trade had fallen through, they probably would have been over the luxury threshold again this year.

And if the luxury threshold was such a big deal, the Spurs wouldn't have messed around and signed all those D-League scrubs and push themselves over the threshold. If the Spurs would have even cut their number of scrub signings in half, they would have been under the threshold without the Thomas trade.

[ChumpDumper]

So they were going to get worse?Were they going to get any cheaper?


So what? How is that even a retort?

Scola turned out better than you thought. "So what?" The trade was a bad trade. "So what?"

Tough to argue against that reasoning.When you're talking about getting rid of a player the Spurs were never going to use anyway, yes.


How is anything ridiculous compared to the sell low technique the Spurs used. Scola was at his lowest point value wise. And the main reason for that is the Spurs f'ed around with him for so long and talked trash about him in the media for years.They had no plans to play him and this was the last chance to use his rights to get anything: in this case they got rid of Butler's salary.


What what area of trading does selling something at its lowest possible point ever make sense? The moment you sign Scola to an NBA contract his value sky rockets.The luxury tax hit also skyrockets.


You're not a big fan of ChumpDumper pulling out the Chuck Hayes card? :)Thanks for reminding us all. I'm over it and will never bring it up again.


It wasn't a basketball trade so it can't be questioned.It wasn't a basketball trade, so chances are it isn't going to make a lot of basketball sense.

[ChumpDumper]

First you laugh at Holt. And then you show Holt that the Spurs have been over the luxury threshold plenty of times ... including last season. If the Thomas trade had fallen through, they probably would have been over the luxury threshold again this year.

And if the luxury threshold was such a big deal, the Spurs wouldn't have messed around and signed all those D-League scrubs and push themselves over the threshold. If the Spurs would have even cut their number of scrub signings in half, they would have been under the threshold without the Thomas trade.Do you even know how the luxury tax works, Ghost Writer?

:lol

I guess we'll see if they end up under it. They still have the rest of the MLE to split between Barry and PJ Brown.

[Holt's Cat]

First you laugh at Holt. And then you show Holt that the Spurs have been over the luxury threshold plenty of times ... including last season. If the Thomas trade had fallen through, they probably would have been over the luxury threshold again this year.

And if the luxury threshold was such a big deal, the Spurs wouldn't have messed around and signed all those D-League scrubs and push themselves over the threshold. If the Spurs would have even cut their number of scrub signings in half, they would have been under the threshold without the Thomas trade.

Not to mention that the Spurs got Duncan to take $5 mil less per year on his extension past 2010.

[picnroll]

And if the luxury threshold was such a big deal, the Spurs wouldn't have messed around and signed all those D-League scrubs and push themselves over the threshold. If the Spurs would have even cut their number of scrub signings in half, they would have been under the threshold without the Thomas trade.
Maybe they knew they had a deadline trade, Thomas for Barry and Elson, sitting there when they signed those scrubs.

[timvp]

Were they going to get any cheaper?So what?


When you're talking about getting rid of a player the Spurs were never going to use anyway, yes.The Spurs obviously were never going to use him by trying to sign him the previous three offseasons. Good point.


They had no plans to play him and this was the last chance to use his rights to get anything: in this case they got rid of Butler's salary. You actually believe Scola was going to sign long-term in Spain?


The luxury tax hit also skyrockets.Not as much as Elson or Bonner.


Thanks for reminding us all. I'm over it and will never bring it up again.You won't be able to help yourself when you see Beno get trapped in the backcourt.


It wasn't a basketball trade, so chances are it isn't going to make a lot of basketball sense.But shouldn't it at least make financial sense? Or are salary dumps not reviewable in any context whatsoever?

[timvp]

Do you even know how the luxury tax works, Ghost Writer?Yeah, what do you need to know, whottt?

:smokin

[whottt]

Maybe they knew they had a deadline trade, Thomas for Barry and Elson, sitting there when they signed those scrubs.


That's actually a good point right there...perhaps it was an option.


Amazingly enough...teh Sonics weren't that interested in Scola...

[whottt]

Yeah, what do you need to know, whottt.

:smokin


I may not ben expert on the salary cap but I am better at it than Ghost...and I've read the Coonfaq 3 times in the past week, because I am tired of asshats that don't know who good players are owning me because of the financial aspect of the game.

[timvp]

Maybe they knew they had a deadline trade, Thomas for Barry and Elson, sitting there when they signed those scrubs.Eh, the Sonics were openly shopping him. If the Magic would have caved in, Thomas was theirs. There wasn't collusion to where the Spurs were getting Thomas no matter what.

To say the Spurs knew back in November that they'd make the Kurt Thomas trade is a stretch of epic proportions. Either that or you believe in Spurs/Sonics collusion.

[ChumpDumper]

So what?No, they were not going to get cheaper so the Spurs pay $7 million or so in luxury tax.


The Spurs obviously were never going to use him by trying to sign him the previous three offseasons. Good point.They wanted him before drafting Splitter. Afterwards, not so much.


You actually believe Scola was going to sign long-term in Spain?If the Spurs were never going to sign him, why not?


Not as much as Elson or Bonner.What does that even mean. Those players were coming back no matter what.


You won't be able to help yourself when you see Beno get trapped in the backcourt.I don't watch Kings games.


But shouldn't it at least make financial sense? Or are salary dumps not reviewable in any context whatsoever?It made perfect financial sense. Butler is off the books.

[timvp]

I may not ben expert on the salary cap but I am better at it than Ghost...and I've read the Coonfaq 3 times in the past week, because I am tired of asshats that don't know who good players are owning me because of the financial aspect of the game.I wasn't talking about your knowledge of the CBA. I was making a Scola related crack.

Keep up :madrun

[whottt]

To say the Spurs knew back in November that they'd make the Kurt Thomas trade is a stretch of epic proportions.


Because Pop hates Kurt Thomas and has never once considered trading for him...a fact well known to Presti and even Carleisimo.

[picnroll]

First you laugh at Holt. And then you show Holt that the Spurs have been over the luxury threshold plenty of times ... including last season. If the Thomas trade had fallen through, they probably would have been over the luxury threshold again this year.

And if the luxury threshold was such a big deal, the Spurs wouldn't have messed around and signed all those D-League scrubs and push themselves over the threshold. If the Spurs would have even cut their number of scrub signings in half, they would have been under the threshold without the Thomas trade.
Maybe Holt has figured out that the economy is sucking ass big time and likley to get worse and those people that were buying Spurs' tickets are going to be buying a tank of gas instead, so it's time to batten down.