"Barry is committed elsewhere"

[ploto]

Take it for what it is worth...

Morey indicated that he has another player or two in mind to add before the playoff charge begins. A couple of players are expected to shake loose in the next few days as teams make cuts following trades, and Morey would like to add a big guard to play behind McGrady when a taller guard like Kobe Bryant or Jerry Stackhouse is playing for the other side. He was hoping to perhaps add Brent Barry, but HOOPSWORLD has learned that Barry is committed elsewhere. Nonetheless, expect Houston to add some size in the back court in the coming days.

http://www.hoopsworld.com/Story.asp?story_id=7549

[Indazone]

:rolleyes Hoopsworld

:drunk

[picnroll]

He's coming back to SA. Accept the obvious.

[phyzik]

dont scare me like that, I thought the title meant he was committed elsewhere besides San Antonio.... :lol

[Indazone]

Rumor has it that he has pre-committed to the Suns.

[Matchman]

barry prolly will not come to houston but citing hoopsworld as the source makes me LoL

[Spurs Dynasty 21]

LMAO @ hoopsworld as a source


and this could mean he's commited to Suns/Celtics..., hopefully the Spurs though

[Agloco]

Rumor has it that he has pre-committed to the Suns.

Their fans treated him like shit last year. I'd be surprised to see him go there.
He's coming back to SA. :fro

[picnroll]

Rumor has it that he has pre-committed to the Suns.
I heard he was signing with the Toros to get another ring.

[ThomasGranger]

In the comments sections Ingram (the author of the piece) adds that "the Suns are convinced they have the inside track." I find that dubious.

[E20]

Barry to SA. BOOK IT.

[ancestron]

Ah, Paloma.

Do I have the name right?

[xmas1997]

The million dollar question is: Where$$$$$$$$$$

[Twisted_Dawg]

If he does not sign with another team in the next few days, then I think he will be headed back here.

[ploto]

While I am not a proponent of the entirety of the Hoopsworld site- hence my statement to take it for what it is worth-- Bill Ingram himself is actually a pretty decent source of NBA information.


by Bill Ingram, 23 February 2008 11:14:27 AM
The Suns are convinced they have the inside track.

[CubanMustGo]

The Suns were convinced they could beat SA in the playoffs, too.

[timvp]

While I am not a proponent of the entirety of the Hoopsworld site- hence my statement to take it for what it is worth-- Bill Ingram himself is actually a pretty decent source of NBA information.:lmao

Ingram is the worst of the bunch.

[Agloco]

Ah, Paloma.

Do I have the name right?



Yes sir.......

All that and a bowl of grits.

Quote me on that.

[angel_luv]

dont scare me like that, I thought the title meant he was committed elsewhere besides San Antonio.... :lol


That's what I thought too.

I am glad to have been incorrect. :)

[SenorSpur]

Rumor has it that he has pre-committed to the Suns.

Why the hell would the Suns be interested in him, when DanTony shortens his rotation to 7 players for the playoffs anyway?

BTW, wasn't the addition of Jalen Rose supposed to be their final piece for their playoff puzzle last year?

This year, it's Grant Hill.

Smacks of sheer desparation.

[easjer]

Why the hell would the Suns be interested in him, when DanTony shortens his rotation to 7 players for the playoffs anyway?

BTW, wasn't the addition of Jalen Rose the final piece for them last year.

This year, it's Grant Hill.

Smacks of sheer desparation.

If he's with them, he's not with us.

(1)

Steve Kerr clearly has high hopes that he can convince D'Antoni to play 8 or 9 people, since he keeps stocking them.

(2)

But I'm not sure D'Antoni can count that high.

[polandprzem]

I think it's a wishfull thinking that barry will be back in spurs uniform. Why would he come back? In other teams he will have a bigger role then with the spurs. Although gotdamnit he would be usefull against some of the opponents in the playoffs and damnit OFFENCE people OFFENSE!

[Budkin]

Hoopsworld or not, it's so fucking obvious he is coming back here and knew that before the trade even went down. All the bullshit about him being angry about the trade was pure CIA in action. See you soon Bones!

[spursfan09]

How is it wishful thinking? It seems like it is perfectly logical for Barry to come back to SA. Nobody knows what went on behind the scenes. I mean it could go either way. This was all planned out and he comes backs, becuase he already has an established home here. Or he was really let down, and he will go to another team just to mess with the Spurs.

[Borosai]

Kurt Thomas <----> Francisco Elson + 2009 1st
Brent Barry (cut) ----> San Antonio Spurs

Well, at least that's what my sources tell me.

[bdictjames]

I think it's a wishfull thinking that barry will be back in spurs uniform. Why would he come back? In other teams he will have a bigger role then with the spurs. Although gotdamnit he would be usefull against some of the opponents in the playoffs and damnit OFFENCE people OFFENSE!
Maybe he wants to get one more ring?

[xmas1997]

I don't see it.
I think the most obvious choice is for him to head for Phoenix.
Playing time is the crucial piece that overweighs things and he gets it there.
Plus he gets to cut up with Shaq, Nash, Hill, and Amare and maybe be that missing piece that spreads the defense.
Speaking of defense, the Suns don't play it which also suits Barry because he doesn't have to think defense first. All he has to do is run and run and run some more and gun from long range as well as making the occasional dazzling pass.
Couple all this to the fact that Phoenix is a lot closer to where his heart lies, the West Coast where and his family spend lots of their off season doing community work and surfing. And his oldest child is only in the 1st grade so now is the optimum time for a family move.
Lastly, he might feel that the loaded Suns have one of the best opportuinties of making it all the way this year and that he would play an integral part in that.
Unfortunaly, I think the Suns is where his "committment elsewhere" lies, and not San Antonio, where the obvious indictments for collusion would surface.
I hope I am wrong!!!!!!!!!!

[spursfan09]

I don't know why people would think its the Suns before the Spurs?

[phyzik]

It just makes too much sense for him to come back to San Antonio vs. choosing another team.

1. We can offer the most money.

2. He knows the system.

3. His family is already settled in San Antonio.

4. Has a chance to defend his title.

5. No one else can be the mango tree.

[polandprzem]

How is it wishful thinking? It seems like it is perfectly logical for Barry to come back to SA. Nobody knows what went on behind the scenes. I mean it could go either way. This was all planned out and he comes backs, becuase he already has an established home here. Or he was really let down, and he will go to another team just to mess with the Spurs.

If barry will be back in San Antonio you may put one phrase in my signature.
Whatever you want I will put it. :cooldevil

[spursfan09]

If barry will be back in San Antonio you may put one phrase in my signature.
Whatever you want I will put it. :cooldevil

:lol That's okay. But he'll be back. I will be shocked if he goes else where.

[whottt]

1. We can offer the most money.


We likely won't.



2. He knows the system.

Which means he knows he's not exactly going to get a ton of minutes in it.



3. His family is already settled in San Antonio.

He's a multimillionaire.


4. Has a chance to defend his title.

And has a chance to help another team win one...arguably playing a bigger role than Pop's whipping boy.



5. I hate Manu Ginobili.


Fixed



I don't really think you made bad points...I just thought it'd be fun to respond to them.

[xmas1997]

It just makes too much sense for him to come back to San Antonio vs. choosing another team.

1. We can offer the most money.

2. He knows the system.

3. His family is already settled in San Antonio.

4. Has a chance to defend his title.

5. No one else can be the mango tree.

Rebuttal:
1. Yes, we can, but we won't. We'll stay under the lux tax instead. Tnat was one of the main reasons for the trade along with picking up Thomas.

2. He does, but it requres a player to understand and think until it is second nature, and finally it is second nature to Brent. However, the Suns system is to run and run and run and in his case gun from long range spreading the defense. It is more in tune with Barrys' game.

3. He had a home in Seattle too before he came here, and his family is young right now, the oldest only in 1st grade, so if a move is feasable, then that move would best be now rather than later.

4. With Shaq, and Hill now coupled with Amare and Nash, the future doesn't look so dim in Suns land espectially if they can acquire a gunner like Barry. Actually he might feel that he could be the missing part of that puzzle to get them a title especially if a cutup like Shaq, and Hill, stay healthy.

5. You got me on that one!!!!!!!!! But he can be one of the thorns on the Big Cactus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I hope I am wrong about all of this, but I don't feel very confidant about it.

[polandprzem]

whott you little wizzel
:p:

[Que Gee]

whott you little wizzel
:p:

I will be EXTREMELY surprised if he is back in a Spurs uniform.
:)

[phyzik]

I don't really think you made bad points...I just thought it'd be fun to respond to them.

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y9/Spriggan54/Batman03.jpg

:fro

[Mark in Austin]

I would guess he's going to the Suns. It's nice to be someplace you're wanted; and after I was on the trading block for over two years, I'd be wanting to give a big fuck you to the Spurs for not wanting me more. Plus playing with Nash isn't exactly boring.

On the other hand, Amare is and always will be a giant douchebag, so who knows.

Let's have a vbookie on it.

[Bruno]

I will be EXTREMELY surprised if he is back in a Spurs uniform.
:)

CIA Que Gee :downspin:

[FromWayDowntown]

I will be EXTREMELY surprised if he is back in a Spurs uniform.
:)

I have that feeling, too.

I just hope that Spurs fans won't hold it against him if Brent chooses to go somewhere else.

[baseline bum]

:lmao

Ingram is the worst of the bunch.

Is Ingram the one who reported the Spurs were holding a press conference to announce the signing of Karl Malone on the day they held a press conference to announce they were retiring Sean's number? :lmao

[nfg3]

I hope he comes back too but wouldn't hold it against him if he didn't. It's a business and he'll go whre he thnks best. We dumped him to get KThomas so I think the loyalty isue might be a little suspect. If he does come back and with the addition of Thomas then - who's minutes get cut?

Udoka - hopefullly not
Horry - likely choice
Bonner - little to lose


Or does Pop do his thing and play the matchups and jumble the lineup to suit his perception?

[Lady M]

Do you know when is the dead line for the play off Roster?

[TMTTRIO]

Manu just said that he's been talking to Brent since the trade and Brent doesn't even know what he wants to do right now.

[Ice009]

Where and When did Manu say that?

I mean did Manu say that today or was that an interview from a day or two ago?

[Ice009]

Man, this is either some serious CIA work by everyone involved or Barry could really be looking to stick it to us.

[TMTTRIO]

on the news just now they interviewed him at practice today and he had said that he had been talking to him a lot over the phone

[FromWayDowntown]

Man, this is either some serious CIA work by everyone involved or Barry could really be looking to stick it to us.

He wouldn't be sticking it to the Spurs any more than they stuck it to him. The Spurs made the choice to give Brent some options. Coming back here is among the options, but it by no means the only option and it's not as if it would be unreasonable for Brent to decide that it's best for him to go elsewhere. I hope that he doesn't do that, but if he does go elsewhere, it's not because he's looking to stick it to the Spurs.

[whottt]

Manu's just being selfish...

[Bruno]

Do you know when is the dead line for the play off Roster?

The deadline for the playoff roster is the end of the regular season (April 16th this year).
There is another rule saying that if a player is waived after March 1st by a NBA team he can't be on a playoff roster.

Barry has been waived before March 1st. He will be on a playoff roster if he signs before the end of the regular season with a playoff team.

[picnroll]

Barry and Pop just teaching Stackhouse and Cuban how collusion is supposed to be done.

[Ice009]

I said COULD be looking to stick it to us. You don't have a clue what Barry is thinking. Maybe he IS pissed off, maybe isn't.

[ducks]

now if we can get ploto to schedule to go elsewhere instead everyone wouild be in heaven

[E20]

I'm pretty sure Barry is coming back. He said at the begining of the season he wants to finish a Spur and this is his last season, why would he just go to some other random team who has no shot at winning a title like the Spurs do.

[Ice009]

WTF no other team has a shot at winning a title except the Spurs? Have you watched any basketball at all this season??? Have you heard of the Western Conference?

[Ice009]

Weird statement there E20. Barry is not looking to go to some scrub team. He would only be looking at teams that have a shot to win the championship. Like Pop said there is possibly 6 or 7 teams that have a shot at it from the looks of it so far this season.

[xmas1997]

Where and When did Manu say that?

I mean did Manu say that today or was that an interview from a day or two ago?

I just saw it now on KENS-TV sports news.
Manu said, "I just talked to him yesterday on the phone and he doesn't know what he is even going to do yet."
Then Manu said, "We all hope he is going to come back to the Spurs, but we should know in the next hours or days what he is going to decide to do."

[T Park]

Either they know and they are all acting a damn good part, or Brent isn't coming.

Not good.

[porscha]

I just saw it now on KENS-TV sports news.
Manu said, "I just talked to him yesterday on the phone and he doesn't know what he is even going to do yet."
Then Manu said, "We all hope he is going to come back to the Spurs, but we should know in the next hours or days what he is going to decide to do."
manu is a pretty honest guy :depressed now I'm worry...come back barry

[xmas1997]

Obviously Manu wants him back and is doing his part in persuasion.
Hopefully TD and TP and Bruce step up the recruiting efforts as well.

[easjer]

Either they know and they are all acting a damn good part, or Brent isn't coming.

Not good.


Yeah, I guess it's way too obvious to assume that Brent Barry may simply not know what he's going to do . . . naturally, he's either not coming or it's totally settled.



I just hope that Spurs fans won't hold it against him if Brent chooses to go somewhere else.

:lol How long have you been posting here exactly?

Obviously, if Barry chooses anywhere but SA, he is a traitor/evil/bastard/jerk/loser. And if he chooses the Suns, he is worse than the most evil thing on earth, and probably in league with Satan.

[ducks]

on 1200 on pregame they said the gm and coach of rockets came to see barry and barry told them he was commited elsewhere!
he did not want to go to the rockets! HE HATES SCOLA!

[easjer]

on 1200 on pregame they said the gm and coach of rockets came to see barry and barry told them he was commited elsewhere!
he did not want to go to the rockets! HE HATES SCOLA!

No one seriously thought Barry would entertain Houston. They don't really appear to be contenders.

It's down to SA, Pheonix and Boston (that we know of).

Several people think Pheonix is the insider, lots of people think SA is, and Boston only further confuses the issue. Jon Barry gave an interview that said Brent most wants to win, and so will seriously consider where he is most likely to do that.

The bad news for Spurs fans is that he can't resign for a month. And even if he decides tomorrow that he wants to return to the Spurs, in that month, it will become more clear where people stand as the trades settle out and temas begin the playoff pushes in earnest. He's got a lot of time to think about who is really looking like championship material - and he can choose to wait 29 days and sign with anyone.

I really want him to come back to us.

[Spurs Dynasty 21]

Suns know he's a killer against them but more importantly they don't want him to be a Spurs


So Kerr doesn't mind giving more money then the Spurs and watching him ride the pine as long as he's not back in SA


KT to SA is already making Kerr pissed

[ducks]

Suns know he's a killer against them but more importantly they don't want him to be a Spurs


So Kerr doesn't mind giving more money then the Spurs and watching him ride the pine as long as he's not back in SA


KT to SA is already making Kerr pissed
KERR MIGHT NOT CARE BUT THE OWNER MIGHT :smokin

[m33p0]

manu is a pretty honest guy :depressed now I'm worry...come back barry
you do know that manu is a well-known prankster along with barry, right?

[Que Gee]

on 1200 on pregame they said the gm and coach of rockets came to see barry and barry told them he was commited elsewhere!
he did not want to go to the rockets! HE HATES SCOLA!

This is not true at all.

[ploto]

I will be EXTREMELY surprised if he is back in a Spurs uniform.

I hope people here know by now that you are the absolute single-most important poster to believe in this thread.

[ploto]

on 1200 on pregame they said the gm and coach of rockets came to see barry and barry told them he was commited elsewhere!
he did not want to go to the rockets!
You know they just got that from Hoopsworld. :lol

[Que Gee]

I hope people here know by now that you are the absolute single-most important poster to believe in this thread.

Ya...I'll won't string it along. When I hear, I'll pass it on.

[MannyIsGod]

I hope people here know by now that you are the absolute single-most important poster to believe in this thread.LOL

[whottt]

KG is a commie...don't count on him for honest press.

[Mark in Austin]

time to say it: if the Spurs really want him back they can step up, take the tax hit, and offer more money than anybody else.

[T Park]

Why blow 10 million on a guy who could prob not play again?

Offer him the minimum, if he thinks hes hot shit and goes to Phoenix, oh well.

Play on.

[Budkin]

Either they know and they are all acting a damn good part, or Brent isn't coming.

Not good.

They have to play it like this or it looks like it was planned before the trade... like it was.

[MannyIsGod]

Why blow 10 million on a guy who could prob not play again?

Offer him the minimum, if he thinks hes hot shit and goes to Phoenix, oh well.

Play on.Every single thing bolded after the "why" is bullshit. Man you're always so full of it.

[T Park]

Takes one to know one.

[MannyIsGod]

Yeah - why don't you provide a link to where it says that this injury is even close to career ending.

[T Park]

?

Didn't say career ending.

But more than likely won't be the same the rest of the year.

I'd like a link to 36 year old shooting guards that tear their calf muscle twice, able to come back and play like they did before.

[MannyIsGod]

?

Didn't say career ending.

But more than likely won't be the same the rest of the year.

I'd like a link to 36 year old shooting guards that tear their calf muscle twice, able to come back and play like they did before.
Why blow 10 million on a guy who could prob not play again?

[td4mvp21]

Takes one to know one.

Wow

[T Park]

[/b][/i]


I apologize, I guess that means "Career is Over"

Nice of you to point it out like an adult :tu

[MannyIsGod]

Not Playing again = career over.

Its pretty damn simple if you have any grasp of the English language.

[T Park]

Couldn't have said "Do you mean ever again, or not playing again this season"

Pretty damn simple for anyone with an ounce of class in their system.

[deadratsam]

I wouldn't think Barry's a traitor if he were to sign with the Suns, I just imagine he wouldn't want to have to play any more games than necessary in front of those assholes in Phoenix.

I hope he comes back, I hope the bonds with his teammates are enough to convince him to come back. But if he does feel unappreciated by the businessmen making the decisions... I just don't want to see him play for Phoenix.

[Princess Pimp]

Get younger please!!! :lol

[m33p0]

Get younger please!!! :lol
back at 'cha! :lmao

[Quasar]

I will be EXTREMELY surprised if he is back in a Spurs uniform.
:)

Is that inside information or just your own feeling.

[spurschick]

Where's Jonathen Chow? I'll bet he knows what's really going on.

[ploto]

Is that inside information or just your own feeling.

I guess it is time to refresh some people's memories...

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35366&page=8&pp=26&highlight=hornets

[td4mvp21]

back at 'cha! :lmao

:lol I don't think he knows that the Suns are the second oldest team in the league, or in the top 5 at least.

[td4mvp21]

I think Que Gee was being sarcastic/exaggerating, hence the smiley face at the end of his post.

[Leetonidas]

I think Que Gee was being sarcastic/exaggerating, hence the smiley face at the end of his post.
I sure as hell hope so because he usually knows what he's talking about.

[ThomasGranger]

I guess it is time to refresh some people's memories...

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35366&page=8&pp=26&highlight=hornets

not to mention this crystal ball magic:

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=85400

[timvp]

I guess it is time to refresh some people's memories...

http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35366&page=8&pp=26&highlight=hornetsDamn, I nailed that JR Smith guess.

:smokin

[Indazone]

I sure as hell hope so because he usually knows what he's talking about.

Dang, Leetonidas post was lost with that highly distractive pic in his moniker.

[StoneBuddha]

Dang, Leetonidas post was lost with that highly distractive pic in your moniker.

Who is that?!?

[Indazone]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl...kn/5565338.html

By JONATHAN FEIGEN
Copyright 2008 Houston Chronicle

Now that he is no longer a player, Jon Barry did not know he could be so popular.

When he arrives at Toyota Center tonight, the Rockets might have serfs carry him to his seat, bring cool beverages and fan him with palm leaves if he so desires.

His brother, Brent Barry, will become a free agent Tuesday, having been put on waivers by the SuperSonics after his trade to Seattle on Thursday. The Rockets, Suns, Mavericks, Spurs and Celtics are chasing Brent, working him like a 7-2 McDonald's All-American choosing between teams in the Final Four.

But along with the last-minute call that sent Jon Barry to Houston to do tonight's game for ESPN, Jon's phone has been ringing more than general managers' on the night before the trade deadline, with the Rockets especially reaching out to their former guard with all kinds of ties to the Rockets coaching staff.

"I'm going to become a player agent for all the calls I'm getting," Jon said. "Wherever he goes, I'm getting a cut. I was just on the phone with him. He's mulling his options. It's a hard decision to make. He knows how much Houston wants him. They've shown great interest, obviously. He is bouncing teams off me. He has a couple days. He's mulling it over."

The Rockets have made their appeal to Jon Barry because of his good feelings about the Rockets organization after his brief stay in Houston and for coach Rick Adelman after his successful run under Adelman with the Kings.

They have spoken to Brent several times, too. But Brent calls Jon for his opinion, so the Rockets have made sure to pitch the idea of Brent following Jon and their father Rick in the family tradition of ending their careers in Houston.

"Rick (Adelman) was the first coach that really gave me an opportunity in the league," Jon Barry said. "I think the world of Rick. He's a tremendous coach with a hell of a system. He's a great coach, as people in Houston did not think a few months ago. It would be a good system for Brent and playing with Yao (Ming) and T-Mac (Tracy McGrady) is tremendous.

"What makes it a very tough decision is the parity in the West. Everybody's got a shot. It makes it that much more difficult. He wants to win. All these teams have a chance. He appreciates that people want him. He feels like he's back in college on a recruiting tour, except this time, you can pay and not get in trouble."

In the NBA, even brothers with influence can be greased, as Jon discovered.

"I've become a Rockets recruiter," Jon Barry said. "(Rockets president) Tad Brown said I'm a lifetime Lexus Lounge member if I can get him. It's a tough situation for him. He feels indebted to San Antonio, where he won a couple titles, had a lot years there.

"He's bouncing stuff off me. It comes down to where he feels really wanted and will play a pivotal role. His role was not that huge in San Antonio. He wants a pivotal role on a team with a chance to do something special. The teams — Phoenix, San Antonio, Dallas and Houston — are four of the best."

Still, if Jon Barry's Diet Coke is not properly chilled tonight, heads will roll.

Ignoring rules not right
When the deal to send Jason Kidd was pending, with the inclusion of semi-retired Keith Van Horn the key to putting it together, Joel Litvin, president of League & Basketball Operations, said the NBA trade rules require that players traded intend to do something other than laugh at their windfall.
"The standard in one of these deals is whether the player intends to resume his career," Litvin said. "A 60-year-old player, you would say no."

But Van Horn has shown no signs of intending to resume his career with the Nets, or to get sweaty with any regularity. When the Nets go on a 10-day road trip next month, he will pass. When they play the rest of the season, he will watch. Maybe.

The Nets have not bothered to fake it, saying Van Horn is in New Jersey, but they have no idea if he will get in shape to play. He will be paid $4.3 million for eight weeks on the roster and his willingness to have his name included in the trade.

The league let the Nets and Mavericks get away with it this time. But so far, Van Horn seems as likely to play as any of the 60-year-olds Litvin said would not have been approved.

The league needs to shut down this silly loophole, or let everyone else ignore the trade rules, too.

Until then, no one should announce his retirement.


Time's running out
While the Rockets, Suns, Celtics and Spurs begin their pursuit of Brent Barry, another veteran guard, Sam Cassell, seems to be pining for his freedom and a chance to similarly be courted by contenders.
The Clippers returned to their traditional dysfunction, letting the trade deadline pass without a move, with Cassell's career down to its stretch run.

"I can't make it happen," Cassell said. "That's up to management. It ain't in my control. If it was my control, it would be something else, but it's not in my control. It's in the Clippers' control. It's my 15th year and it hasn't gone the way I've wanted it to as a team. When you look around, we've been injury-depleted the whole year."

He would not say if he wants a buyout, but he does.

"That would be something I would have to talk to (agent) David Falk about," he said.


Looking to move
No one has been clearer about his desire to move than Warriors guard/forward Mickael Pietrus, who considers himself better than his role and does not appreciate being used for his ability to do dirty work.
Pietrus has gotten playing time this month, but usually at power forward when Don Nelson gets into his crazy matchup mode.

"I definitely want to be traded to another team that I can help," Pietrus said. "I think that it was good to play (power forward and center), but it's not really my primary spot. It's not where I'm so efficient. So I want to move on."


Taking hard line
The Nuggets refused to blink on the Kings' demand of Linus Kleiza in any deal for Ron Artest. Players usually prefer the statement of confidence that can come from standing pat at the trade deadline, but the Nuggets had coveted a move for a star to match the Lakers', Suns' and Mavericks' blockbusters.
When Carmelo Anthony was asked about the Nuggets' hard line, he barely hid his disappointment while blowing by and offering only, "I have nothing to say right now."


Remember when ...
In the days after the deal to send Jason Kidd was complete, Nets GM Rod Thorn finally admitted what had become obvious for months, and made the deal necessary for the Nets. He said Kidd's "heart" had not been in it since "sometime in December."
That brought a quick question of "Early December?" It was on Dec. 5 that Kidd sat out with a "migraine headache" that was widely considered merely a protest that he did not get a contract extension, a charge Kidd denied. (Of course Kidd later denied he wanted to be traded a day before he announced he wanted to be traded.)

Thorn, grinned, but left it at "Sometime in December."


Getting acquainted
Dallas coach Avery Johnson knew the question was coming. With Jason Kidd replacing Devin Harris as his point guard, Johnson knew his hard, micromanaging style with Harris might not be quite right for a sure Hall of Famer with among the best feel for the position.

"I was wondering how long it was going to take you guys to ask me that," Johnson said. "I've never worked with Jason Kidd, so we have to find out what works well for our relationship. I think within the team concept, the point guard and the coach must have a relationship.

"I don't think I'm going to sit down the whole game. I think I'm going to have to help him get through this period. But I don't think I'll be screaming at him every play telling him what to do, either. The reason we got him is because he knows what to do."


Reason to worry
After the Knicks were blown off the floor by the Sixers last week, Isiah Thomas suggested" "Maybe guys' minds were elsewhere with the trade deadline coming up."
They were worried, apparently, that they would not be traded.

None were. The Knicks are stuck with Zach Randolph and the three years for $48 million left on his contract, Eddy Curry and the three years, $31 million on his, Stephon Marbury and the $21.9 million and Jerome James and the two years, $12.8 million left on his.

But some might contribute more than Keith Van Horn if they can get over the disappointment of still being Knicks.

[Princess Pimp]

The Spurs would be over the cap if they sign Barry...
Knowing how your stingy owner is...he wouldn't pay the luxury tax.

So NO BARRY for you!! :lol

[ChuckD]

I think Que Gee was being sarcastic/exaggerating, hence the smiley face at the end of his post.
That was the "insider smiley". If QUE GEE says he's probably not coming back, don't wait by the phone, or in this case, the internet board.

[Matchman]

Brent wants a pivotal role in a contending team.

If he returns to the Spurs, no one will remember him because the Spurs got TD, Manu, and Parker in front of him.
If he goes to the Mavs, all they will remember is Kidd if they win the championship.
If he goes to the Suns, Shaq will be remembered as "the man" if they win the ship.

So the only way to have a pivotal role on a playoff team is to join the rockets, which can give him (at the very least) the sixth man position and possibly become the third offensive option. If the Rockets win the championship, he will be remembered as "the man" that turn the playoff choking Rockets into Clutch City Rockets.

[whottt]

So the only way to have a pivotal role on a playoff team is to join the rockets, which can give him (at the very least) the sixth man position and possibly become the third offensive option. If the Rockets win the championship, he will be remembered as "the man" that turn the playoff choking Rockets into Clutch City Rockets.


The Rockets won't win a championship if Barry goes there...


And besides...like the Rockets said...he'd be following in the footsteps of his father and brother in Houston...they didn't win championships there either.



There are teams Barry can help win a championship....but the Rockets aren't one of them....that's too much choke on one team for any player to fix.

If he doesn't resign with the Spurs, I hope he does go to the Rockets.

If you guys wanted a 2 guard that could help you beat the Spurs...you should have kept Bonzi.

[Indazone]

Actually Barry would be playing the same role on the Rockets that he did on the Spurs. Sporadic minutes of time but mainly warming the end of the bench with his butt.

[whottt]

Actually Barry would be playing the same role on the Rockets that he did on the Spurs. Sporadic minutes of time but mainly warming the end of the bench with his butt.


That's too bad for you...as he's the one perimeter guy on your roster that isn't a choker...


The more Alston threes the better I always say...and playoff TMac...

[Matchman]

The Rockets won't win a championship if Barry goes there...


And besides...like the Rockets said...he'd be following in the footsteps of his father and brother in Houston...they didn't win championships there either.



There are teams Barry can help win a championship....but the Rockets aren't one of them....that's too much choke on one team.

If he doesn't resign with the Spurs, I hope he does go to the Rockets.

If you guys wanted a 2 guard that could help you beat the Spurs...you should have kept Bonzi.

So how long did it take for DRob to get a championship? how long did it take for the San Antonio Spurs to win a championship? How long did it take for KG to advance pass the first round of the playoffs?

Just because TMac and Yao choked for 2 playoffs series together doesnt mean we will never get a championship. And with Brent's shooting ability, theres no way teams can double team Yao and TMac without paying the price.

and one last time, we want to keep Bonzi, but we cant afford to resign him. We want to get rid of MJ's contract, too.

[Indazone]

Well at least Barry has a more complete game over Novak. I don't think that Barry necessarily shoots the 3 ptr better than Novak but he at least he can play better defense than Novak.

[whottt]

So how long did it take for DRob to get a championship? how long did it take for the San Antonio Spurs to win a championship? How long did it take for KG to advance pass the first round of the playoffs?

I don't know...how long did it take them to lead their teams to the worst record in the NBA and have the second longest losing streak in history(and longest by anyone whoever called themselves a star)...like TMac?

Oh wait...they didn't. No one in NBA history did..but TMac.





Just because TMac and Yao choked for 2 playoffs series together doesnt mean we will never get a championship. And with Brent's shooting ability, theres no way teams can double team Yao and TMac without paying the price.

and one last time, we want to keep Bonzi, but we cant afford to resign him. We want to get rid of MJ's contract, too.


You'd need a coach that can stop choking instead of one who creates it...


Adelman will have your entire team and fanbase convinced that there's no way the Rockets can win because the refs are throwing the game...sooner, or later.

FWIW, you guys will make it out of the first round...but you won't be winning a title.

Even if your team wasn't genetically predisposed to choke...Yao and TMac aren't complimentary players...and teams will exploit that in the post season.

[Indazone]

His best bet for a pivotal role would be "I hate to say this" would be on the Suns. They need three point shooters on that team and they run a lot so Barry would get more chances there. Rockets, they got a pretty good rotation, so Barry would get limited minutes there. Maybe 10 min or so a game if he's lucky.

[whottt]

And the Spurs know Scola is a choker as well...that's why they were comfortable adding him to the Adelman TMac mix....

[picnroll]

Suns have a long history of brining guys in like Barry and then burying them deep at the end of the bench. Does he trust D'Antoni and his penchant for seven man rotations?

[picnroll]

McGrady has choked so many times they ought to pin Heimlich maneuver instructions to the back of his jersey.

[Matchman]

McGrady has choked so many times they ought to pin Heimlich maneuver instructions to the back of his jersey.

Did they do it on David Robinson's Jersey?

[whottt]

Suns have a long history of brining guys in like Barry and then burying them deep at the end of the bench. Does he trust D'Antoni and his penchant for seven man rotations?


Barry and D'antoni will be a match made in heaven for both of them. Barry will get minutes with D'antoni.


IF I had to rate the smartest offensive players in the NBA it'd go like this..

Robert Horry(the smartest player period, and probably the smartest coach as well. Genius level)
Steve Nash
Brent Barry

All those fast passes that everyone thought was Barry being afraid.....D'antoni will have a wet dream over those, and Barry loves to run.


I'm telling you....if he goes to the Suns...we will see a running team win a championship IMO.

Barry and Nash usually rank 1 and 2 in the league in true shooting PCT as well...pairing them with Amare and Shaq? Damn...that's going to suck. They also both shoot @ 50% from the field and 40% from 3.

The Suns may end up setting the playoff record for team FG%. They'll be no defending them with the way Nash and Barry can whip the ball around the court instantaneously...to the open guy...and I'm talking about the half court game there....forget about transition, the best part of their games.

The Suns will maximize Barry's offensive talents(and he's got a hell of a lot more than anyone gives him credit for)....they'll also be able to send Nash to the bench and trot out an extremely similar player to get minutes at the point now...and unlike here...they'll love Barry pass first attitude in Phoenix....all those scorers will anyway...

[td4mvp21]

Did they do it on David Robinson's Jersey?

:lol That doesn't negate the fact that McGrady is a choker. DRob got the rings, btw :toast

[picnroll]

whottt i never comprehended the depth of you Barry love before.

[Matchman]

:lol That doesn't negate the fact that McGrady is a choker. DRob got the rings, btw :toast

yes, and McGrady is still competing in the playoffs :toast
TMac will end his career with at least a ring

[ChuckD]

So how long did it take for DRob to get a championship? how long did it take for the San Antonio Spurs to win a championship? How long did it take for KG to advance pass the first round of the playoffs?

Just because TMac and Yao choked for 2 playoffs series together doesnt mean we will never get a championship. And with Brent's shooting ability, theres no way teams can double team Yao and TMac without paying the price.

and one last time, we want to keep Bonzi, but we cant afford to resign him. We want to get rid of MJ's contract, too.
Out in the first round is light years away from a 'Ship. Even when the Spurs weren't hoisting the trophy, they were making some forays into the second round and one to the WCFs.

If you're using the Spurs as a template, you'd better hope for a Duncan in the draft. If you're using Minny, hang yourself. KG only got out of the first round once, and the franchise ultimately failed, shipping him off to Beantown.

[whottt]

whottt i never comprehended the depth of you Barry love before.



Posting completely accurate stats and pointing out the similarities between Nash and Barry's strenghts = love?

I call it objective fact...if he goes to the Suns they'll be adding a mini Nash to their roster...Nash is already almolst capable of beating any team in the NBA by himself in D'antoni's system...they really don't need much to get over the hump...Barry and fucking Shaq O'Neal will do it.

[picnroll]

yes, and McGrady is still competing in the playoffs :toast
TMac will end his career with at least a ring
I think the league should give TMac an honorary ring if he can make the second round.

[td4mvp21]

yes, and McGrady is still competing in the playoffs :toast

All the more opportunity for him to choke :toast


TMac will end his career with at least a ring

Thanks for the insight, Nostradamus.

[whottt]

And BTW...it's good to see that defensive stud Marion has turned the Heat around...he puts up the least impactful stats in the NBA.

[peskypesky]

I think it's a wishfull thinking that barry will be back in spurs uniform. Why would he come back? In other teams he will have a bigger role then with the spurs. Although gotdamnit he would be usefull against some of the opponents in the playoffs and damnit OFFENCE people OFFENSE!

I think Barry will come back to the Spurs. He's got a home in SA, his family is there, he's familiar with the team (i.e. no learning curve), he's won 2 rings with the Spurs (and I'm sure he's grateful for that opportunity), and I'm sure CIA Pop worked it out with him beforehand.

[FromWayDowntown]

Did they do it on David Robinson's Jersey?

By David Robinson's 11th season, his teams had won 10 playoff series, won a championship, and played in 2 conference finals. (without Duncan, Robinson had won 5 series and reached a conference finals)

It's Tracy McGrady's 11th season. His teams have lost all 6 playoff series in which he's played, including blowing a 3-1 lead, lost a series in which they had a 2-0 lead coming home, and lost another series in which they had a 2-0 lead and played Game 7 at home.

I'd say the differences are pretty stark.

[ploto]

The best thing for Brent is to go someplace where he will be given the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution and that simply is not San Antonio.

[ChumpDumper]

Yeah, he was averaging over 20 mpg in December before the injury. He would never have a chance to play meaningful minutes if he got healthy ever again. :rolleyes

[whottt]

I think Barry will come back to the Spurs. He's got a home in SA, his family is there, he's familiar with the team (i.e. no learning curve), he's won 2 rings with the Spurs (and I'm sure he's grateful for that opportunity), and I'm sure CIA Pop worked it out with him beforehand.



I don't...I think that fucker is going to the Suns.


1. He's an offensive guy, not a defensive guy. The lure of winning a championship with an offensive team is going to be a strong one.

2. Just because Barry is a pro who never complained about the way he was used here doesn't mean he liked it. I can almost guarantee you he didn't. I can almost promise you he has some issues with Pop's, if you can't play D you're a piece of shit philosophy...and the Suns provide a rare opportunity to prove his point.

3. Steve (Benedict Arnold) Kerr - He knows exactly what Barry went through, becuae he went through the same thing with Pop. You know the Spurs wanted to resign Kerr and he wouldn't do it...after 5 years of being told he wasn't good enough to be on the court, he just wasn't into it anymore. And that's basically what happened to Barry. They'll be able to commiserate. And remember...Barry came here to "Steve Kerr it" for a few years. If anyone can help Barry Steve Kerr it...it's Steve Kerr.


No...I don't think Barry will be back. I think he is going to the Suns. I don't think he's got any deep loyalty to the Spurs...and they certainly never had any to him. And it's not like he's deeply loyal himself to begin with...just ask Seattle.

I hope I'm wrong...but it just makes too much sense.




Hopefully the Suns age will catch up to them....in particular Nash and Shaq.

[picnroll]

Shaq sucks. That trade was stupider than the the Kidd trade. Suns had little chance before and now they have no chance even with Brent "the second coming of Nash" Barry.

[whottt]

Shaq sucks. That trade was stupider than the the Kidd trade. Suns had little chance before and now they have no chance even with Brent "the second coming of Nash" Barry.


Go up...and ask Shaq to smack you upside the head...then you'll understand the type of D he is going to be playing...and that he doesn't suck bad enough....And he can do it without being called for a foul too..



I know...7'1 300l+lb Shaq with an old dog's meanstreak doesn't intimidate you in the slightest...because you're not going to be the one getting the shit knocked out of you. And he still scores at wlll over a 50% clip.

He doesn't have to be the best player on this team..or even the second best...he's going to have an impact.


Shawn fucking Marion couldn't impact a VW with a Semi...

[ChuckD]

Barry is talented. That cannot be denied. His biggest drawback, and the single trait most likely to get you exiled from SA, is his passivity. Mini Nash? Nope. Nash is constantly attacking and probing the defense. Other than early this season, and when he was stung from almost being traded for JR Smith, he's played scurred his entire time here. Four months of inspired b-ball isn't much to show for almost four seasons.

[ata]

yes, and McGrady is still competing in the playoffs :toast
TMac will end his career with at least a ring
Will he prostitute himself in Payton/Malone style?

[picnroll]

Go up...and ask Shaq to smack you upside the head...then you'll understand the type of D he is going to be playing...and that he doesn't suck bad enough....
Shaq's defense totally sucks. The Suns will be pick and rolled to death. The Heat always had to sub in Mourning because Shaq was so bad on D.

[whottt]

Barry is talented. That cannot be denied. His biggest drawback, and the single trait most likely to get you exiled from SA, is his passivity. Mini Nash? Nope. Nash is constantly attacking and probing the defense. Other than early this season, and when he was stung from almost being traded for JR Smith, he's played scurred his entire time here. Four months of inspired b-ball isn't much to show for almost four seasons.


Hey...I didn't say he was Steve Nash...I said he was a mini Nash because he's similar in a lot of ways...that doesn't mean they have to be similar in every way.


This extra chromosome provided to you free of charge by whottt :tu

And Barry is a great passer...who gets guys easy baskets...even Superstars.

[picnroll]

Shaq has brought something to the Sun's offense they haven't had before, ...

the 24 second shot clock violation. :rollin


Kerr flunking out as a GM.

[CaptainLate]

I hope he comes back too but wouldn't hold it against him if he didn't. It's a business and he'll go whre he thnks best. We dumped him to get KThomas so I think the loyalty isue might be a little suspect.

"Dumped"? Only if BB wasn't in on the conversation. You know the FO told him what the plan was and said if he (BB) thinks he can come back healthy, they want him back because he was playing well before the two injuries.

Again, BB is no Jerry Stackmouth. And did you read McDonald's "conspiracy" column just released?

[whottt]

Shaq has brought something to the Sun's offense they haven't had before, ...

the 24 second shot clock violation. :rollin


Kerr flunking out as a GM.


He brings championship experience, he brings size and intimidation in the middle...he brings Amare not having to play C.


Dude...Shaq physically beats the shit out of anyone he plays against over the course of a playoff series...and all he's got to do is bump people to do it.


You go guard him and then say he doesn't have anything to offer.




I've seen the impact his little bumps in the paint can have on players...including Tony Parker in 04.


The Suns have an intimidating presence in the middle now...


Manu used to teabag Amare and Marion with regularity, and they almost seemed to enjoy it...he's not going to be teabagging Shaq.

[picnroll]

whottt stop watching the NBA Classic channel.

[Holt's Cat]

"Dumped"? Only if BB wasn't in on the conversation. You know the FO told him what the plan was and said if he (BB) thinks he can come back healthy, they want him back because he was playing well before the two injuries.

Again, BB is no Jerry Stackmouth. And did you read McDonald's "conspiracy" column just released?

Barry is livid. He can't wait to stick it to the Spurs.

[whottt]

whottt stop watching the NBA Classic channel.

Shaq is more physical and bruising now than he's ever been before in his career...he knows he doesn't have the athleticism he used to have...now he plays more like guys that don't have athleticism...like Charles Oakley. Only he's a hell of a lot bigger than Oakley ever was.



Laugh all you want...but his willingness to knock the shit of Dirk is why the Heat bitchslapped the Mavs when we couldn't.


Forget about the fact that he's not the MVP Shaq anymore...he's still about the biggest dude in the NBA, and he's still exceptionally mobile and coordinated for his size.

[ChuckD]

Manu used to teabag Amare and Marion with regularity, and they almost seemed to enjoy it...he's not going to be teabagging Shaq.
You're 100% right. Getting teabagged involves actually BEING in front of the player. Shaq can barely get in front of big guys anymore, let alone a whirlwind like Ginobili. Manu's dunks will be UNCONTESTED.

[picnroll]

Shaq playing with an edge today, already got a flagrant 1 that was a borderline 2. But Shaq's mouth is writing checks his body can't cash.

[ChuckD]

At this point in his career, Shaq is Ostertag...with a tan. His skilz are gone, and all that's left is BIG.

[whottt]

At this point in his career, Shaq is Ostertag...with a tan. His skilz are gone, and all that's left is BIG.

Except that he's 10 times faster than Ostertag, and better...and will be on the day he retires.



I want you guys to tell me..how many 300lb intimidators are there in the NBA capable of running with the Suns? Better than Shaq?


Believe it or not...the Suns would have preferred Tim Duncan...he wasn't available.

[ChuckD]

Shaq playing with an edge today, already got a flagrant 1 that was a borderline 2. But Shaq's mouth is writing checks his body can't cash.
I don't think it was borderline at all. It definitely WASN'T a 2, but definitely WAS a 1 when you take a guy out a guy who's airborne.

[picnroll]

Except that he's 10 times faster than Ostertag, and better...and will be on the day he retires.



I want you guys to tell me..how many 300lb intimidators are there in the NBA capable of running with the Suns? Better than Shaq?


Believe it or not...the Suns would have preferred Tim Duncan...he wasn't available.
I've watched two of Shaq's Sun games I'm waiting for that first "running with the Suns".
Sun's have become a schizophrenic, run/low post offense team and aren't doing either well. Kerr fucked up bad.

Amare will finally get what he wants. He'll be the focus, the man, the man on a mediocre team. Maybe that'll get him a commercial,

[ChuckD]

Except that he's 10 times faster than Ostertag, and better...and will be on the day he retires.

Stop watching NBA Classics.


I want you guys to tell me..how many 300lb intimidators are there in the NBA capable of running with the Suns?
Zero.

[peskypesky]

I'm not sure if the Suns' dismal performance today is going to do much to lure Barry to Phoenix. The Shaq trade is looking pretty shaky.

[td4mvp21]

I'm not sure if the Suns' dismal performance today is going to do much to lure Barry to Phoenix. The Shaq trade is looking pretty shaky.

CIA Suns to show Barry how much they need him?

[DazedAndConfused]

LMAO at everyone acting like Bones is some kind of All-Star. You don't even know if he'll be even able to play the rest of this season with his multiple calf tears.

[picnroll]

Dayam the Suns desperately need Barry.

Sign with the Suns, Brent and save your buddy Kerr.

[ChuckD]

Phoenix getting blown out. Dayum.

[Que Gee]

Spurs are in the mix...Late arrival to the dance, but looks like they could be a pretty strong possibility.

[picnroll]

Suns desperately need Barry and his shooting. But if Barry choses the Suns he can kiss any chance for another ring goodbye. He wants a ring it's the Spurs, Lakers, maybe Houston or the Celtics. Suns could potentially swoon and miss the playoffs. Unlikely but possible, particularly as they have the toughest remaining schedule.

If i were Barry and thinking about the Suns I'd wait a few games and see if they continued to suck.

[Leetonidas]

Spurs are in the mix...Late arrival to the dance, but looks like they could be a pretty strong possibility.
Good to know.

[ChumpDumper]

Spurs are in the mix...Late arrival to the dance, but looks like they could be a pretty strong possibility.As long as they match the Rockets' maximum minimum offer....

[StoneCutter]

I haven't seen it mentioned yet so I thought I would just throw it out there. During the game one of the commentators mentioned that Barry wants to make a decision by Tuesday. If true...everyone will find out pretty soon where Barry wants to go.

The Suns needed to improve their defense and rebounding to have a legit shot at the title...doesn't look promising for them. If they could have traded Stoudemire for Garnett before the season started they should have. Garnett, Marion and Bell give them much better defense then Shaq and Stoudemire ever will.

[whottt]

I've watched two of Shaq's Sun games I'm waiting for that first "running with the Suns".
Sun's have become a schizophrenic, run/low post offense team and aren't doing either well. Kerr fucked up bad.

Yeah..because two games in is enough time to make this adjustment.

I actually think they are meshing pretty smoothly..Detroit's always been a tough matchup for both Shaq and the Suns.





Amare will finally get what he wants. He'll be the focus, the man, the man on a mediocre team. Maybe that'll get him a commercial,


Are you really ready to draw final conclusions after just a hanful of games?


If so that is a rush to judgement on your part....

[whottt]

Stop watching NBA Classics.

Why don't you watch Greg Ostertag for a change...this season by Shaq would be Ostertag's career season...



Zero.

False...Shaq's already shown he can run with them pretty effectively...it'll only get better.



You gotta realize...Shaq's never played with a pass first PG in his life.

[whottt]

Shaq playing with an edge today, already got a flagrant 1 that was a borderline 2.

That's the way he plays now...





But Shaq's mouth is writing checks his body can't cash.

Actually...the Suns can cash those checks.


You act like a Shaq's a wimp or something...ask Raja Bell if that's the case.

[ChuckD]

Why don't you watch Greg Ostertag for a change...this season by Shaq would be Ostertag's career season...
That's EXACTLY what I said. At this point, Shaq is Greg Ostertag, with a tan. Glad you agree.



False...Shaq's already shown he can run with them pretty effectively...it'll only get better.
I don't know what fucking games you're watching, but I see a fat blubber butt who can't keep up with the players running either way. When was the last time PHO scored 90 or less in B2B games? He's a fucking boat anchor on their offense.




You gotta realize...Shaq's never played with a pass first PG in his life.
Scott Skiles might disagree with you.
http://assets.espn.go.com/photo/2007/0424/nba_g_soss03_195.jpg

[z0sa]

That's the way he plays now...





Actually...the Suns can cash those checks.


the check just bounced, buddy. and the way he plays now, looks like his teammates are gonna have to pay up.

the suns - Marion + shaq < suns +marion - shaq at this point.

[TMTTRIO]

Did anybody else go to the Spurs Club 200 season ticket holder party at the AT&T center today? Someone told me that they spotted Brent Barry over there today. Hmm sounds kind of interesting :)

[xmas1997]

He was there.
That party present and former players are promised to be there.
Nothing collusive about that.

[SpursWoman]

Did anybody else go to the Spurs Club 200 season ticket holder party at the AT&T center today? Someone told me that they spotted Brent Barry over there today. Hmm sounds kind of interesting :)


Maybe he was there to finish cleaning out the rest of his stuff from his locker. :spin

[ploto]

He had probably already made the commitment to be there, so he was.

[ChumpDumper]

To say nothing of the accuracy of the report, why would Brent be committed to any function of a team that no longer can enforce any appearance obligation?

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

I hate the Spurs, so I'll throw out some weak spin about the situation.

[whottt]

To say nothing of the accuracy of the report, why would Brent be committed to any function of a team that no longer can enforce any appearance obligation?



Maybe he just likes parties...

[travis2]

This extra chromosome provided to you free of charge by whottt :tu

You have an extra chromosome? That explains a lot...:lol

[easjer]

I just thought of this and it might be taking conspiracies too far, but . . .

Barry still has to clear waivers, right? He'll be clear this evening or tomorrow morning, right?

If he wants to make certain he doesn't pulled by Pheonix (so he can resign with another team, Spurs or not), then he would want to make it clear that he is looking around and that Pheonix is a front runner. Because otherwise, Pheonix could use their trade exception to grab him, if they felt they really needed him (and were willing to pay $8 million to nab him, which I don't think they are).

And it's in his best interests anyway, because regardless of where he signs, he gets the remainder of his guaranteed salary + whatever comes in from the new contract.

But I can see a bigger push to make it clear he's taking offers just to make sure he doesn't get pulled by a desperate or nervous Kerr. Presumably, Kerr knows that he could pull him, they're just hoping to save $ by not taking on his entire salary.

[ploto]

why would Brent be committed to any function of a team that no longer can enforce any appearance obligation?
Because he made the commitment to attend when he was still on the team and that is the kind of guy he is. Players sign up for appearances in advance. Plus, it could provide a possible chance to thank the fans before he leaves. Most players do not get that chance. They are traded and gone.

[NRHector]

Rumor has it that he has pre-committed to the Suns.
get real!

[NRHector]

Shaq has brought something to the Sun's offense they haven't had before, ...

the 24 second shot clock violation. :rollin


Kerr flunking out as a GM.
that is so fucken funny :lol

[NRHector]

I don't see it.
I think the most obvious choice is for him to head for Phoenix.
Playing time is the crucial piece that overweighs things and he gets it there.
Plus he gets to cut up with Shaq, Nash, Hill, and Amare and maybe be that missing piece that spreads the defense.
Speaking of defense, the Suns don't play it which also suits Barry because he doesn't have to think defense first. All he has to do is run and run and run some more and gun from long range as well as making the occasional dazzling pass.
Couple all this to the fact that Phoenix is a lot closer to where his heart lies, the West Coast where and his family spend lots of their off season doing community work and surfing. And his oldest child is only in the 1st grade so now is the optimum time for a family move.
Lastly, he might feel that the loaded Suns have one of the best opportuinties of making it all the way this year and that he would play an integral part in that.
Unfortunaly, I think the Suns is where his "committment elsewhere" lies, and not San Antonio, where the obvious indictments for collusion would surface.
I hope I am wrong!!!!!!!!!!
why do you think the trade was 2 for 1 ?
spurs had to leave a spot open for brent

[NRHector]

I'm not sure if the Suns' dismal performance today is going to do much to lure Barry to Phoenix. The Shaq trade is looking pretty shaky.
what do you mean is looking pretty shaky, the trade was shaky since the first day it happened and the game yesterday just proved it, Shaq is a diesel alright and he looked like one yesterday the way he played so slow that he looked like a diesel hauling 10 semis.

[tinysands]

The Suns expect to hear from free agent guard Brent Barry either late Monday or early Tuesday regarding Barry’s choice of teams, an NBA source said Monday.

Barry was expected to meet with his family tonight in his San Antonio home and decide which offer to accept. It is believed that the Suns and Spurs are the leading contenders, but Houston and Boston are also in the mix.

None of the four teams is expected to give more than a pro-rated portion of the veteran’ minimum ($1.2 million) to Barry, who had his $5.6 million contract bought out by the Sonics last week after being dealt to Seattle in the Kurt Thomas deal..

http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/109883



The Suns could use some help running the offense when Steve Nash is out and could use another long-range shooter for better spacing on offense.

Phoenix will find out Tuesday whether Brent Barry will help. Barry, 36, has told his suitors - the Suns, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas and Boston - that he will commit to a team Tuesday.

"I've spoken with Brent and his agent (Arn Tellem) and we feel we have a shot at getting him," Suns General Manager Steve Kerr said. "We've reached out to him and he knows what we have to offer."

The Suns can offer a healthy rotation role. The Suns are down to three 3-point threats in Nash, Raja Bell and Leandro Barbosa, and lost more court spacing by putting Shaquille O'Neal in Shawn Marion's starting spot. Barry, who's averaging 7.3 points this season, has a career 3-point shooting percentage of 40.7 - 43 percent in 2007-08.

Barry, a 6-foot-7 swingman, was surprised by San Antonio's deadline deal to move him to Seattle last week for Kurt Thomas. The Sonics acquired him with the plan to release him Friday. Barry will clear waivers today and can sign with any team but San Antonio, which must wait 30 days after the trade to do so.

Barry's family is settled in San Antonio, where he helped the Spurs win the 2005 and 2007 championships.

The Suns have offered a prorated veteran's minimum deal but money is not believed to be a factor. Barry made $5.7 million this season and has been out since Jan. 26 because of a calf strain. He has started running and shooting but would be at least a week away from practicing in full.

Barry's addition would not necessarily mean the end for 6-foot-8 forward Linton Johnson, who signed a 10-day contract Friday. Johnson was acquired for support as a defensive wing. Barry would not provide the same defense that James Jones did off the bench the past two years but could be that same shooting threat with the bonus of running the wing on fast breaks and playmaking.

Barry played two seasons in San Antonio with Suns forward/center Sean Marks.

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/0225barry.html



We here at the Mailbag don’t claim to know what Brent Barry is thinking. We haven’t tapped his phone. We aren’t in his head.

We don’t know for sure where he is going to wind up when his services go up for bid on Tuesday morning.

What we have here is a hunch. A gut feeling.

And that gut feeling tells us Barry’s new team will look a lot like his old team. Our hunch is Barry, essentially rendered a free agent during last week’s wheelings and dealings that brought Kurt Thomas to San Antonio, will re-sign with the Spurs, even if he has to wait nearly 30 more days to do it.

Our guess is he will essentially be a former Spurs swingman for less than a week. But it’s only a guess, not worth more than the virtual paper it’s printed on.

We’ll admit, from a pure playing-time perspective, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Some of the other teams on his list of suitors – Houston, Dallas, Phoenix and Boston – could probably use him more.

With the rise of Ime Udoka in the rotation, the Spurs are having enough trouble making room for all the wing players they’ve got.

In the Spurs’ most recent victory, a 98-89 trumping of New Orleans on Saturday, Michael Finley – an erstwhile starter – managed to get on the floor for just 10 minutes, 45 seconds.

How many minutes can coach Gregg Popovich carve for Barry, who is still at least 10 days away from being able to play again after his second stint on the injured list?

The Rockets, Mavericks and Suns could find use for him as soon as he’s healthy enough. The Celtics would probably even offer him significant minutes at point guard.

So if Barry returns to the Spurs, it won’t be for playing time.

It will be for family – both his actual flesh and blood, and the fraternal bond of the Spurs locker room.

Barry and his wife, Erin, have been active in the San Antonio community since he arrived in 2004. His kids, as much a fixture in the Spurs’ locker room as their father, are entrenched in school here.

That will probably figure into Barry’s decision somehow.

(Something that won’t: His starring turn in a series of local H-E-B commercials, though it did give rise to one of our favorite e-mails of the week. From Tom, in San Antonio: “Come back Brent. You’re the mango tree.”)

Then there is the prospect of returning to the team with which he’s won a pair of NBA titles. He’s familiar with the Spurs’ offense, he’s familiar with his teammates. There would be no learning curve.

When he’s ready to play, he can just play. That has to factor in, too.

Still, until Barry puts pen to new contract, anything is possible.

Our gut feeling is that Barry will follow his heart, if not his head. But that’s only a hunch.

http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/basketball/nba/spurs/stories/MYSA022508.spursmailbag.en.WEB.2ab03b98.html

[td4mvp21]

Come on Barry, stay with us!!!

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

http://ducksweb.blogs.com/ducks_weblog/files/comical_ali.jpg
The San Antonio Spurs hate white people.

[SpursWoman]

:lmao @ AHF

[T Park]

:lol Nice AHF

[ChuckD]

http://ducksweb.blogs.com/ducks_weblog/files/comical_ali.jpg
The San Antonio Spurs hate young black men!!

[Spurs Brazil]

Suns Expect To Hear From Barry By Tuesday Morning
February 25, 2008 - 8:35 pm
East Valley Tribune -
The Phoenix Suns say that they expect to hear from free agent Brent Barry by either Monday night or Tuesday morning as to which team has will be joining, the East Valley Tribune is reporting.

Barry, who was traded from San Antonio to Seattle before being bought out, is believed to be favoring both Phoenix and San Antonio, with Houston and Boston both in the mix for his services as well.

If Barry chooses the Spurs, he must wait 30 days before he can rejoin his former team. [READ]
http://www.realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/51097/20080225/suns_expect_to_hear_from_barry_by_tuesday_morning/

[Indazone]

Feb. 26, 2008, 12:03AM
ROCKETS NOTES
Team still waiting on Barry


By FRAN BLINEBURY
Copyright 2008 Houston Chronicle

Free agent Brent Barry wanted one more day to make his decision. He has informed his pursuers in Houston, San Antonio, Phoenix and Boston that he will decide with which one he will finish the season today.

After being surprised to be included in a trade-deadline deal that sent him from San Antonio to Seattle as part of the Spurs' bid to acquire Kurt Thomas, the 36-year-old long-range shooter has been wooed by the heavy-hitting quartet of contenders.

The 6-7 Barry, a career 40.7 percent shooter from beyond the 3-point line, has been sidelined with a calf strain since Jan. 27 and is believed to be at least a week away from returning to the court to practice.


Perfect goal
Before they take over the world, the Rockets have their sights set on conquering February.

"Our new goal is sweep the month," Yao Ming said. "We are having a great month, 12 in a row, and we have a chance to make history if we win the last two games."

If they can take care of the Wizards tonight and the Grizzlies on Friday, it would be the first time a Rockets team has gone undefeated through an entire month since November 1993 (14-0). That team opened the season 15-0 to set an NBA record.

"You always have long-term goals and short-term goals," coach Rick Adelman said. "You're not really looking ahead. You're looking at where you put yourself. You put yourself within two games of doing that (sweeping the month). If (Yao) would have said that seven games ago, I would have said let's wait a little bit. But I think it's realistic. If it's something that motivates us to get these next two games, that would be great."


Missing at stripe
Tracy McGrady wrapped up his workout Monday by standing at the foul line and making 14 consecutive free throws. In Sunday's win over the Bulls, he was just 8-for-12, and the Rockets made only 17 of 31.

"I'm the worst," McGrady said. "We've been shooting bad from the stripe all season. I don't know. Background. Concentration. You can say all kinds of things."


Scola doing job
Coach Rick Adelman might not have expected the Rockets to remain undefeated for several weeks after Luis Scola was put in the starting lineup at power forward. But the production of the 27-year-old rookie has been no surprise.

"He's had that half-a-year experience in our league," Adelman said. "We did not want to start him early. We didn't want to throw him to the wolves right away. We didn't think defensively he was ready for it. But after half the games with experience and everything else, I think he's comfortable now, and we have three really good players at that power forward spot."
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5569740.html

[hsxvvd]

Come on Brent, Come home!

[ploto]

Free agent Brent Barry wanted one more day to make his decision

Obviously, if it was as simple as wanting to re-sign with SA, he would not need another day to decide.

[ploto]

Sam Cassell has been in the NBA since 1993. He has two championship rings. He has played in 115 playoff games for five teams - and he knows he won't get to No. 116 with his current outfit, the Clippers.

That is why this week stands as one of the more memorable ones in Cassell's 15-year career. He soon will know whether he will be going to the postseason with any of three teams - the Celtics among them - or whether he will close down his third year in Los Angeles April 16.

According to a Clippers source, the team will announce today that it is buying out the contract of the 38-year-old guard.

http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/articles/2008/02/26/cassell_drawing_interest/

Looks like Cassell will be a Celtic- not Brent.

[Aggie Hoopsfan]

Free agent Brent Barry wanted one more day to make his decision

Obviously, if it was as simple as wanting to re-sign with SA, he would not need another day to decide.

Obviously, if it was that simple and the Spurs didn't want to get busted for collusion like the idiot Mavs, Barry would have his marching orders to flirt with Phoenix and make this appear to be an agonizing decision.

Silly girl...

[naico]

One thing we do know now, is Barry is a good sleeper..

[picnroll]

Who will be disappointed, Spurs fans if Barry doesn't signs with the Spurs or ploto if he does?
Stay tuned.

[spursfan09]

Free agent Brent Barry wanted one more day to make his decision

Obviously, if it was as simple as wanting to re-sign with SA, he would not need another day to decide.

:rolleyes

Yeah Obviously.

If Brent can't sign with the Spurs anyway until 30 days. He doesn't have to decide today. he could wait until the 28th day.

[Budkin]

It's all show... Brent will be back here, book it.

[ploto]

Poeple are hilarious. If Brent knew for sure he simply wanted to stay in SA, as people have wanted to believe, he would not be agonizing over his decision. It is APPARENT it means he is torn between different options.

I want Brent to do what is best for HIM. He has a future elsewhere, but not here.

[Shred]

Rockets have to be top contender, followed by Suns.

[101A]

Poeple are hilarious. If Brent knew for sure he simply wanted to stay in SA, as people have wanted to believe, he would not be agonizing over his decision. It is APPARENT it means he is torn between different options.

I want Brent to do what is best for HIM. He has a future elsewhere, but not here.With the recent Stackhouse situation, Brent HAD to make it appear so.

It has worked.

He's coming back.

[Budkin]

Poeple are hilarious. If Brent knew for sure he simply wanted to stay in SA, as people have wanted to believe, he would not be agonizing over his decision. It is APPARENT it means he is torn between different options.

I want Brent to do what is best for HIM. He has a future elsewhere, but not here.

Obviously you are the one who is missing the obvious. Unless they play this up like it wasn't pre-arranged (which it was) then the league gets suspicious. Brent's family is a part of SA, he loves the guys on the team, he knows the offense, and he was playing great for us before he got re-injured. He's not leaving. Sorry if that upsets you, but it's reality.

[FromWayDowntown]

Poeple are hilarious. If Brent knew for sure he simply wanted to stay in SA, as people have wanted to believe, he would not be agonizing over his decision. It is APPARENT it means he is torn between different options.

I want Brent to do what is best for HIM. He has a future elsewhere, but not here.

The fact that he's torn doesn't mean he won't end up back in San Antonio. If anything, I'd think that the fact that he's torn (likely between a situation with more minutes or returning to the Spurs) suggests just how strongly Brent would prefer to stay in San Antonio, all things being equal. It might be that all things are not equal and that the consideration for him is whether the comfort of home is better than the "we'll give you the moon" overtures from the Suns. I could see that such a disparity would create some difficulty in making a decision, but I also think that the fact that he hasn't just jumped at the first offer of more time and a bigger role suggests a very strong desire to stay in San Antonio.

I agree that Brent Barry should do what is best for him, but also I'm not sure that he's got a very long future as a basketball player anywhere. He's previously suggested that this might be his last season. His opportunities to stay involved in basketball might actually be better in San Antonio than anywhere else -- he could get his feet wet with broadcasting here (subbing for Sean Elliott or something like that) or find other opportunities that might not exist for him in other communities.

[spursfan09]

Poeple are hilarious. If Brent knew for sure he simply wanted to stay in SA, as people have wanted to believe, he would not be agonizing over his decision. It is APPARENT it means he is torn between different options.

I want Brent to do what is best for HIM. He has a future elsewhere, but not here.

You are not a spurs fan so ofcourse you don't care if he comes back.

[remingtonbo2001]

Ploto should change her screen name to Sour Grapes.

[roycrikside]

Honestly, I love Brent Barry. He's my third favorite Spur, and I've always thought his basketball IQ was way up there. But if he's seriously interested in the Suns, I question his basketball intelligence. There is NO WAY he's getting a ring on that team. They're just not built right. The Shaq trade ruined their roster and their defense still sucks. Whatever benefits their offense would gain by having Barry on the floor would be offset by them getting toasted on the other end because it would mean a good defender like Bell (or even Hill) isn't on the floor. Unlike the Spurs, the Suns don't have the necessary guys behind Brent to help out his defensive shortcomings. He has to know that if he's honest with himself.

If he wants a 3rd ring, he'd have a much better shot with Boston or even Houston than with Phoenix. I don't think they're making it out of the 1st round (unless they play Dallas).