Top 15 Bigman Candidates for the Minimum

Following the recent flurry of moves, the San Antonio Spurs can only offer a minimum contract when wooing free agents. One area the Spurs may want to address is an addition bench bigman. While San Antonio currently has five bigs, the future of DeJuan Blair -- who has been in trade talk -- is murky. Additionally, Tiago Splitter, Boris Diaw and Matt Bonner may all become free agents next summer.

The Spurs could opt to sign a sixth bigman from their summer league roster or fill the void via trade. However, if they look elsewhere, here are my top 15 candidates who may be available for a minimum salary.

1. Luis Scola
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The Rockets used the amnesty provision to make Luis Scola's contract disappear. On Sunday afternoon, we'll know whether Scola was claimed in the amnesty waiver process. While I expect him to be claimed, there's a chance he'll fall through the cracks and become an unrestricted free agent. If that happens, he should absolutely become priority No. 1 for the Spurs. Although his level of play fell off drastically last season, he's still an above average bigman who can score in the paint, nail open jumpers and, most importantly, compete with a fiery edge. Scola doesn't bring much on the defensive end of the court but he'd be a very useful player and an absolute bargain at the minimum. And while he may get offered more money on the open market, in San Antonio he'd be able to join a couple close friends (Tiago Splitter and Manu Ginobili) and step into a defined role immediately.

2. Kenyon Martin
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When Kenyon Martin returned to the U.S. after playing in China in the middle of last season, he nearly signed with the Spurs before inking a deal with the Clippers. Now that the Clippers have cut ties with him, don't be surprised if Martin again enters San Antonio's cross-hairs. While he doesn't score much or rebound at an especially high level, the 34-year-old theoretically fits rather well. Defensively, he's a great pick-and-roll defender who can also guard the post and protect the rim. On offense, his jumper is good enough to space the court moderately well. Martin is also regarded as a tough guy who plays with contagious confidence.

3. Jon Leuer
http://dailyelements.com/leuer.jpg
Jon Leuer isn't a free agent yet but he could be soon. He got traded to the Rockets earlier in the summer and has a contract that becomes fully guaranteed if he isn't released by the end of July. With Houston looking to clear salary cap space, it's not too likely they'll keep him around. If Leuer is indeed released, the fit with the Spurs is virtually seamless. At 6-foot-10 without shoes, Leuer is a very good mid-range shooter who should be able to develop a three-point shot. He's comfortable out on the perimeter and is a plus passer, above average ballhandler for his size and plays a smart brand of basketball. In his rookie season last year with the Bucks, he wasn't very good defensively but he's an adequate rebounder who has the size and mobility to become average on that end once he adds more strength. The 23-year-old fits now and still is young enough to improve.

4. Ronny Turiaf
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With three Frenchmen already on the roster, a fourth won't hurt anybody. Turiaf is injury-prone and isn't overly skilled but he fits in many ways. Offensively, he's a strong finisher around the basket and an underrated passer. He used to have a good jumper so that ability might return in San Antonio's system. On defense, Turiaf is basically just a 6-foot-10, 245-pound ball of energy. He's not a very good rebounder but that's mostly because he tries to block every shot in his vicinity. He can defend pick-and-rolls and even stop out on the perimeter, however he also fouls a whole lot. Turiaf isn't good enough (or durable enough) to start but he could be a strong role player off the bench.

5. D.J. White
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Even though he's 25 and was drafted back in 2008, it's difficult to figure out what exactly D.J. White is as an NBA player. He began his career buried on the Thunder's bench and then got traded to Charlotte where he has been mired in the Bobcats misery the last two seasons. At 6-foot-9 and 235 pounds, White can sink mid-range jumpers, pass reasonably well and he doesn't make many mistakes. Defensively, he's not a world-beater but he has the wherewithal to become capable in the Spurs system. The main drawback with White is he's coming off of a poor season that was by far the worst of his career. But, in my view, I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and chalk that up to him being stuck on the worst team in NBA history. Thus, White could be one of the better buy-low free agents on the market.

6. Jermaine O'Neal
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Jermaine O'Neal is just about the most injury-prone player in the NBA. He hasn't been able to play more than 70 games in any campaign since the 2004 season. And it seems to always be a new body part that is breaking down. All that said, O'Neal makes some sense for the Spurs. They can make him a full-time bench player for the first time in his career, which may help him stay healthy. When he's on the court, O'Neal is a very good defender; there are still only a handful of players who defend the rim better. He can defend the post and is blessed with quick defensive reflexes. Offensively, the 33-year-old can't do much anymore but he has a jumper that can't totally be ignored and he finishes strong at the basket.

7. Anthony Tolliver
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Since leaving the Spurs, Anthony Tolliver has carved out a decent career. He's bounced around a bit but he looks like a legit NBA player. At 6-foot-8, Tolliver is undersized for power power and he doesn't rebound or block shots especially well. However, he's a very good passer for a bigman who also hustles endlessly, plays smart and is deceptively quick. The main reason why Tolliver could be available for the minimum is that his three-point touch vanished last year. After shooting better than 40% from deep in 2011, he was less than 25% last season for the T'Wolves. (The Spurs know all about how streaky he can be from beyond the arc. He basically made the Spurs by shooting lights out in summer league and then got waived because he couldn't hit a shot in the regular season.) If Tolliver hits three-pointers at a decent level, he's a quality bench player. If not, he doesn't do enough well to counterbalance that weakness. The Spurs may take another look at Tolliver if they think he can hit threes consistently enough.

8. Shelden Williams
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Shelden Williams is the prototypical banger who doesn't hurt your team as a fifth bigman. He lacks skill but he can defend the rim decently and rebound well. Williams doesn't back down from contact and is also regarded as a good chemistry guy in the locker room. Other than those positive traits, though, he's a bland player. Offensively, his hands aren't good and he lacks a feel for the game. If he scores, it's usually a simple shot right at the rim. Defensively, his reactions can be slow and his lack of speed from baseline to baseline can be detrimental.

9. Josh Harrellson
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Like Leuer, Josh Harrellson is currently property of the Rockets. Also like Leuer, he has an unguaranteed contract that will probably end up being torn to pieces. As a rookie last season for the Knicks, Harrellson flashed some potential. He's a big dude (6-foot-10, 275 pounds) who can defend the post on defense and shoot three-pointers on offense. Harrellson's rebounding and shotblocking are also above average. However, it should be noted that most of his success came with Mike D'Antoni at the helm and his bulk hurts his mobility on the defensive end. Overall, though, Harrellson is a relatively unique prospect who could be worth a look if he becomes available.

10. Louis Amundson
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Offensively, Louis Amundson is a train wreck. He struggles to finish even the simplest of shots and he can't shoot free throws or pass. But defensively Amundson is good enough that he may enter the picture. He plays with great energy, rebounds well and blocks shots. Amundson is also mobile enough to defend pick-and-rolls and fast enough to play quality transition defense. But, again, his offense is just so bad that he might not be able to hang.

11. Darko Milicic
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As you can guess by his placement on this list, I'm not a Darko Milicic fan. Unless he's getting consistent minutes, he's a horrible teammate who refuses to work hard. He may not be a chemistry killer -- but he's close. Even when he gets minutes, he's just not that good. Offensively, he clogs the lane and forces bad shots. While he's a talented passer when he looks to share the ball, he's selfish more often than not. Defensively, Milicic's combination of height (7-feet), bulk (275 pounds) and agility makes him attractive in theory, but it has never materialized into consistent production. Add in his shaky rebounding, his often questionable effort level, his cancerous attitude and I'd prefer the Spurs look elsewhere. Milicic's ceiling is undeniably high but I highly doubt he'll ever come anywhere close.

12. Yi Jianlian
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Before Yi Jianlian agreed to join the Mavericks last season, the Spurs were said to have interest in him. While with the Mavs, Jianlian dominated in two games on the D-League level but failed to make an impact once called up to Dallas. The 24-year-old is the ultimate workout wonder. He can run, jump and shoot the lights out in drills. It's obvious he's been trained very well on his individual skill. However, the native of China really struggles to incorporate his skills into a team setting. Jianlian is the most robotic player in the league and lacks any semblance of basketball IQ or natural feel for the game. It's rare that a 7-footer who is relatively strong and exceedingly talented isn't a wanted man in the NBA -- but Jianlian is the exception. Maybe he can learn how to play basketball outside of drills but I wouldn't bet on it.

13. Hamed Haddadi
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Hamed Haddadi is 7-foot-2 and longer than Ali Khamenei's reign. He's also a great rebounder and a very good shotblocker. Offensively, he's a high percentage shooter with good touch. Unfortunately, his weakness are extreme: He's very slow, very immobile, gets tired quickly and isn't a smart player. Haddadi is somewhat useful on the right team but he'll never be much more than a niche player who can go for a couple minutes at a time. If he ever averages ten minutes per game over a season, I'd be surprised. Haddadi wouldn't be a horrible signing but his ceiling is low and it takes unique circumstances to even put him on the court.

14. Nazr Mohammed
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We've officially reached the "Well, he has six fouls" portion of this list. The stats suggest Mohammed fell off a cliff last season. Subjectively, I agree. Considering it's been a while since he was a decent player even when he was on sturdy ground, I don't see much value in him now. Mohammed is a good teammate who brings experience but his weaknesses (bad hands, slow reactions, lack of mobility) are even more pronounced now that he's old.

15. Joel Przybilla
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The Spurs have shown interest in Joel Przybilla in the past -- as recently as last season. But after numerous knee injuries, it looks like Przybilla has reached the end of the line. He can still rebound and block shots decently well but he's probably the worst offensive player in the league right now. With his drop in athleticism, it's difficult to imagine Przybilla as more than a 12th man. He's a good teammate who can come in and knock people around so he'd be a serviceable 12th man -- but that's about the extent of his usefulness these days.

Harrellson might be a better stretch big than Bonner, tbh...

Amundson is a interesting player IMO. Very high energy guy

sign em all!

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Originally Posted by DesignatedT

Amundson is a interesting player IMO. Very high energy guy

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i would have him and darko a little higher on the list.

Good list

I'd put Jermaine in at number 11 though

top 3 are not an options:
1. Luis Scola will be claimed by Dallas
2. Kenyon Martin will resign by the Clippers who need big like him with Blake Griffin injury profile and after trading Reggie Evans.
3. Jon Leuer will not become free agent, if the Rockets don't keep him, he will be traded for second round pick at least cause he's an intriguer prospect.

too bad we couldn't get Rashard Lewis, what about Antawn Jamison?

After Turiaf I'm not interested & i hope the spurs are not either(with the exception of Haddadi)

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Originally Posted by kobyz

top 3 are not an options:
1. Luis Scola will be claimed by Dallas
2. Kenyon Martin will resign by the Clippers who need big like him with Blake Griffin injury profile and after trading Reggie Evans.
3. Jon Leuer will not become free agent, if the Rockets don't keep him, he will be traded for second round pick at least cause he's an intriguer prospect.

too bad we couldn't get Rashard Lewis, what about Antawn Jamison?

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Clippers traded for Odom so i doubt Martin will be back in LA.

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Originally Posted by timvp

13. Hamed Haddadi
http://i.cdn.turner.com/si/.e1d/img/...ayers/4531.jpg
Hamed Haddadi is 7-foot-2 and longer than Ali Khamenei's reign.

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:lol

I heard a while ago that the Clippers will not bring Martin back. The Odom acquisition basically closed the door on that. Word was they are interested in Hollins and now Milicic, to be their backup center.

Then I heard that the Nets were interested in Martin, but they're reportedly close to re-signing Humphries and have already signed Teletovic and Evans. So I'd imagine they're turning their attention to signing a center (they're supposedly interested in Milicic too, but less so than the Clippers and Celtics).

Martin's got a big ego though and I don't think he could settle for not only making the veteran's minimum, but being told that he wouldn't be assured a spot in the rotation, which is probably what the Spurs would tell him. I can't imagine he'd put up with not playing ahead of Bonner or even sharing the fourth big role with him. But, I'm fairly certain that he claimed he was very interested in the Spurs last off season (damn near everyone who spurns them says this though), he's from Texas and no contender really needs a power forward, so who knows.

More likely, presuming Blair is jettisoned, they sign someone less high profile, like Turiaf or White. If Blair is kept and they go with six, then expect a project type, like Ajinca, or if he shows well in Summer League/preseason, Green.

If Scola doesn't come to the spurs I have a feeling they will get Martin.

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Originally Posted by suitedkings

sign em all!

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truth

nice write up

Thanks for the writeup, timvp... I have an odd request: If Matty wouldn't be a Spur and would be available, where would you rank him on that list? Thanks.

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Originally Posted by MR.SILVER&BLack

After Turiaf I'm not interested & i hope the spurs are not either(with the exception of Haddadi)

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Agree.

In my opinion, Turiaf, not Scola, appears to be the best choice for what the Spurs need. As much as I like Scola, and there's no doubt that he is the best and most skilled of the bunch, it just makes no sense to bring in a guy for the minimum if he is unable to address some of the basic deficiencies and needs that the Spurs have. Three of which are defense, shotblocking and rebounding. Scoring is always nice, but for this team, it shouldn't be the priority when choosing a big from this list.

Knowing Pop though, he's probably salivating over the remote possibility of getting Scola on the cheap. Pop would certainly be willing to overlook his defensive liabilities. However, I think that would be a mistake.

Now, if they could add Scola while subtracting Bonner, then you're doing the frontline a solid.

I would add that Brazilian kid and Ajinca to the list. Leuer would be my preference. I didn't realize he would become Unguaranteed potentially in a matter of weeks. If Houston picks him up I'm inquiring what they would want: Neal, 2nd? (Blair won't do to the PF heavy Rockets).

Darko 5th and O'neal 12th.

Ladi dadi Haddadi likes to party. I'd take him tbh

If the Spurs miss out on Scola then Turiaf will be the guy.

Interesting how many of those guys the Spurs supposedly tried to sign when they were in their prime. I think the Spurs would be better served by one of the younger players on the list than an over-the-hill one.

How bout another look at Malcolm Thomas? Do the rockets still hold his rights?

If Scola can't be had, I would be OK with KMart or Turiaf... the problem though is if they take minutes away from Tiago instead of Matt...

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Originally Posted by kobyz

too bad we couldn't get Rashard Lewis, what about Antawn Jamison?

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I probably would have put Lewis seven and I had Jamison at two but after doing more research, I don't think he ends up signing for the minimum.

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Originally Posted by ElNono

Thanks for the writeup, timvp... I have an odd request: If Matty wouldn't be a Spur and would be available, where would you rank him on that list? Thanks.

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Tough question. If Bonner had put up the same stats elsewhere but it wasn't yet clear he was a playoff choker, I'd put him two or three. But if we're talking about known playoff choker Bonner, probably eleven.

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Originally Posted by CGD

I would add that Brazilian kid and Ajinca to the list. Leuer would be my preference.

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The Brazilian kid's stats in Spain were pretty weak. I'd have to watch more video on him to see if he's even list-worthy, tbh.

As I mentioned, I purposely left out the summer league options since we'll know a lot more about them in the coming week or so. Right this second, Ajinca would probably be around 14.

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Originally Posted by ivanfromwestwood

How bout another look at Malcolm Thomas? Do the rockets still hold his rights?

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Scrub :lol

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Originally Posted by timvp

Tough question. If Bonner had put up the same stats elsewhere but it wasn't yet clear he was a playoff choker, I'd put him two or three. But if we're talking about known playoff choker Bonner, probably eleven.

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Sounds about right... I had him at 7...

Jermaine ONeal is only 33?

I don't see Scola clearing waiver.

So first of all, I hope the Spurs would go after Martin, then trade Blair.

If the Spurs could finally get rid of Bonner, I would like the Spurs to sign Yi as the fifth big.

Though Yi is not a very good NBA player, he is a professional player and won't complain about playing time.

What I worry most is that if the Spurs wait for Scola and couldn't get him finally, players like Martin might be signed by others.

We find out at 4:00 tomorrow if Scola clears waivers, correct? Cuban is who I'm worried about.

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Originally Posted by Redshadows

I don't see Scola clearing waiver.

So first of all, I hope the Spurs would go after Martin, then trade Blair.

If the Spurs could finally get rid of Bonner, I would like the Spurs to sign Yi as the fifth big.

Though Yi is not a very good NBA player, he is a professional player and won't complain about playing time.

What I worry most is that if the Spurs wait for Scola and couldn't get him finally, players like Martin might be signed by others.

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??? Jezuuus. Take a fucking pill. We'll know if he's available 4PM CST tomorrow.

Yi also isn't a professional player, he's a professional workout artist, or didn't you read the review? Once the ball goes up and there are ten players on the court, he's completely lost.

Jermaine O'Neal, if he can play spot minutes can be a very good addition. Best defensive player of this lot. We have enough offense. Pairing O'Neal with anyone else in the Spurs bigs would be a good one. If only he can stay a tad healthy.

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Originally Posted by Wild Cobra Kai

??? Jezuuus. Take a fucking pill. We'll know if he's available 4PM CST tomorrow.

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Of course I hope he would clear waiver.

But last summer, after the Spurs spent time in Caron Bulter, players like Mike Dunleavy was signed.

I don't wanna see it happen again.

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Originally Posted by Redshadows

Of course I hope he would clear waiver.

But last summer, after the Spurs spent time in Caron Bulter, players like Mike Dunleavy was signed.

I don't wanna see it happen again.

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If we had signed Dunleavy or Butler, RJ would have been amnestied, and we never would have gotten Jack back. Some things work out for the best.

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Originally Posted by Mel_13

Looking forward to the "Top ten bigs that may be available for the minimum" thread.

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http://spurstalk.com/forums/showpost...91&postcount=7

Thanks for exceeding expectations.

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Originally Posted by Mel_13

http://spurstalk.com/forums/showpost...91&postcount=7

Thanks for exceeding expectations.

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I forgot to thank you in the OP for the idea. Thanks :tu

How did Greg Oden not make this list? Gimpy, needing more rehab and all. Upside and having actually done something in the league should put him at about 10th, he's probably physically more reliable than Jermaine O'neal...

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Originally Posted by pad300

How did Greg Oden not make this list? Gimpy, needing more rehab and all. Upside and having actually done something in the league should put him at about 10th, he's probably physically more reliable than Jermaine O'neal...

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I'm in favor of signing Oden but that would be more of a project for the future instead of him actually filling a role anytime soon. Highly doubt he plays basketball this season.

It's a nice list, LJ...really it is.



However, I'm hoping that we'll abandon even pursuing anyone past #6 on your list and see what opportunities present themselves during the season. The list could have been called, "My Top 6 Bigman Candidates for the Minimum, and Some Additional Scrap Mentionables".


Doesn't roll off the tongue quite like your title, though.


:toast

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Originally Posted by timvp

If Bonner had put up the same stats elsewhere but it wasn't yet clear he was a playoff choker, I'd put him two or three.

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If that was true, he wouldn't be available for the minimum and wouldn't be on the list at all. (Novak 4/15)

Turiaf remains my choice as most likely vet min signing, with Shelden Williams second. Williams just always looked like a Spur to me.

I'd be interested to see how Kenyon Martin did on the Spurs. Having the 1997 and 2000 number 1 overall picks on the same team...stacked baby!!!

Ehj ftw

No Anthony Randolph?

With 5 vet PF/C, I think Spurs are fine quantity wise. They have an issue quality wise for the backup PF spot and, in this list, only Scola an K-Mart are good enough to pass both Bonner and Blair in the rotation.

Aside of the top 2 players, Sheldon Williams is a player I really like. He is a tough blue collar player. Leuer and to a lesser extent Yi are intriguing too.

I'm all for Yi! then...http://espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=7c6lp8z

That would give us at least one from every continent and (main-)race!

...shouldn't that make Stern finally a Spurs fan???

Scola would be #1 on my list but a pipe dream at the minimum.

I would have Anthony Randolph ranked in the top 10.

:lol is Jermaine's head photoshoped? What a high forehead.

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Originally Posted by SenorSpur

Agree.

In my opinion, Turiaf, not Scola, appears to be the best choice for what the Spurs need. As much as I like Scola, and there's no doubt that he is the best and most skilled of the bunch, it just makes no sense to bring in a guy for the minimum if he is unable to address some of the basic deficiencies and needs that the Spurs have. Three of which are defense, shotblocking and rebounding. Scoring is always nice, but for this team, it shouldn't be the priority when choosing a big from this list.

Knowing Pop though, he's probably salivating over the remote possibility of getting Scola on the cheap. Pop would certainly be willing to overlook his defensive liabilities. However, I think that would be a mistake.

Now, if they could add Scola while subtracting Bonner, then you're doing the frontline a solid.

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This. Scola is a beast but not in the department we need him to be. We have a plethora of scorers and we are severely lacking interior D. Without addressing this need we should look forward to a repeat of last season. I really hope the spurs stay focused on needs rather than luxury.

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Originally Posted by spurspokesman

This. Scola is a beast but not in the department we need him to be. We have a plethora of scorers and we are severely lacking interior D. Without addressing this need we should look forward to a repeat of last season. I really hope the spurs stay focused on needs rather than luxury.

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yes lets sign one of the other bigs on the list so bonner can still play regular minutes. :bang

As much as I want the spurs to add a big man, for some reason I feel they'll either leave teh spot open or sign another short guard.

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Originally Posted by spurspokesman

This. Scola is a beast but not in the department we need him to be. We have a plethora of scorers and we are severely lacking interior D. Without addressing this need we should look forward to a repeat of last season. I really hope the spurs stay focused on needs rather than luxury.

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Actually if you think about it, none of our bigs right now can realiably play with their back to the basket, which would have been a nice option against okc since they took away out penetrate and kick game. Duncan sadly is not the same player there, and I still can't get the embarrassing image of Fisher successfully guarding Tiago in the post. I would argue that Scola adds that dimension which I think we really do need.

Anthony Randolph isn't signing for the minimum.

Only the top 3 and Shelden Williams are players I'd be willing to sign. The rest of that list looks pretty depressing.

You are really high on Leuer - I am higher on Tolliver (not over Leuer, just on this list). I would move Tolliver to 4.

Honestly, if we can't get Scola, I'd go with Jermaine O' Neal. Injury prone yea, but we need defense.

We have scorers, we need more aggression and defense. Bottom line.

Oh why do I even give a fuck. Stern is there in the end anyway.

:pctoss

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Originally Posted by CGD

Actually if you think about it, none of our bigs right now can realiably play with their back to the basket, which would have been a nice option against okc since they took away out penetrate and kick game. Duncan sadly is not the same player there, and I still can't get the embarrassing image of Fisher successfully guarding Tiago in the post. I would argue that Scola adds that dimension which I think we really do need.

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I agree we need better post scoring. Both Diaw and Splitter should get some time to run the offense out of the post. It gives us different looks to throw at defenses and a way to throw their offense of rhythm.

So I don't really know Jon Leuer's game, but from that synopsis, he sounds like Bonner minus the red hair. Is that about the size of it?

@OP

As far as Scola goes, there is zero chance he won't be claimed off waivers. Dude, Brendan Haywood was claimed lol. Someone will get him. There's lots of teams still under the cap.

They said they were looking for a 'physical center' but didn't the Spurs go after Marcus Camby? Camby is in no way physical. Maybe the Spurs just said they need a 'physical center' as a smokescreen for guys like Haywood, Kaman, Brand, and Kwame to get signed before other bigs like K-Mart or Scola.

Anyway, this is a great list timvp. My favorites are K-Mart, Turiaf, DJ White, and Tolliver. I'd put Scola in but someone is probably gonna claim him.

1, 2, or Leuer.. I'd rather stick with what we got than get any of the other ones.

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Originally Posted by -21-

They said they were looking for a 'physical center' but didn't the Spurs go after Marcus Camby? Camby is in no way physical. Maybe the Spurs just said they need a 'physical center' as a smokescreen for guys like Haywood, Kaman, Brand, and Kwame to get signed before other bigs like K-Mart or Scola.

Anyway, this is a great list timvp. My favorites are K-Mart, Turiaf, DJ White, and Tolliver. I'd put Scola in but someone is probably gonna claim him.

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Technically, the Spurs FO didn't say they were looking for a "physical center" (at least not to us). It was Lorbek that stated that the Spurs were looking into one. Whether or not the Spurs told him this or not has not been confirmed to my knowledge - or if they did tell him that, if it was the truth.

we have the ability to score, what we need is defense in the paint.........what happened to the days when there were a bunch of defensive minded bigs available, guys like Haley, who couldn't score to save their lives, but could give you the interior presence you needed on the defensive side of the ball.

all these guys can score, or could score, but for the most part are crap defenders.....man, the league sure has changed over the last 5 or so years.

I'd add Dominic McGuire as a combo forward borderline big for his energy, and Fesenko for his massive size and limited potential.

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Originally Posted by Biggems

we have the ability to score, what we need is defense in the paint.........what happened to the days when there were a bunch of defensive minded bigs available, guys like Haley, who couldn't score to save their lives, but could give you the interior presence you needed on the defensive side of the ball.

all these guys can score, or could score, but for the most part are crap defenders.....man, the league sure has changed over the last 5 or so years.

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I agree. I think the keys for the team are better post offense and defense. With Diaw and Leonard and Green the defense should improve from RJ and Blair.

K-Mart is still a good player. I guess he could be an alternative to Scola.

Just give a god damn phone call to Martin and offer him a god damn offer.

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Originally Posted by Redshadows

Just give a god damn phone call to Martin and offer him a god damn offer.

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We have Matt Bonner:pop::pctoss

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Originally Posted by Biggems

we have the ability to score, what we need is defense in the paint.........what happened to the days when there were a bunch of defensive minded bigs available, guys like Haley, who couldn't score to save their lives, but could give you the interior presence you needed on the defensive side of the ball.

all these guys can score, or could score, but for the most part are crap defenders.....man, the league sure has changed over the last 5 or so years.

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http://www.dallasnews.com/incoming/a...Charles+Haley+

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Originally Posted by Obstructed_View

http://www.dallasnews.com/incoming/a...Charles+Haley+

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:lmao That's who I thought he was talking about too.

Martin isn't perfect, but given the situation you take him.

I could see a Jermaine O'Neal, but then you have 3 centers...who makes sense defending the 4 in a league in which tall swingmen play the 4?

The only reason I'd go with an outside shooting big is just so Pop might be forced to end his mancrush on Bonner and play someone else with better defense and rebounding.

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Originally Posted by timvp

:lmao That's who I thought he was talking about too.

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If you say Haley and defense, it's the only face that pops into my head. The only Haley I remember on the Spurs didn't play defense. In fact, the only thing I remember him doing is being Rodman's friend and picking a fight with that ugly little point guard from the Nuggets in garbage time of a playoff game.

Right now my 3 choices would be Dominic McGuire, Kenyon Martin, or James Singleton.

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Originally Posted by Biggems

we have the ability to score, what we need is defense in the paint.........what happened to the days when there were a bunch of defensive minded bigs available, guys like Haley, who couldn't score to save their lives, but could give you the interior presence you needed on the defensive side of the ball.

all these guys can score, or could score, but for the most part are crap defenders.....man, the league sure has changed over the last 5 or so years.

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Well not to sure but watching us play against OK no one wanted to shot the ball. It was like the ball was a hot brick the way our players were throwing it around to each other.

Any reason you didn't put Anthony Randolph on that list? Yes, I know he's a headcase, and I know he's failed to live up to his potential, but the potential is still there and Pop/Tim could be just the guys to bring it out of him.

Otherwise, I'm intrigued by K-Mart (even though I don't like him, this team has lacked a tough SOB for some time), Leuer and Harellson.

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Originally Posted by RuffnReadyOzStyle

Any reason you didn't put Anthony Randolph on that list? Yes, I know he's a headcase, and I know he's failed to live up to his potential, but the potential is still there and Pop/Tim could be just the guys to bring it out of him.

Otherwise, I'm intrigued by K-Mart (even though I don't like him, this team has lacked a tough SOB for some time), Leuer and Harellson.

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Originally Posted by timvp

Anthony Randolph isn't signing for the minimum.

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Thanks Mel. Missed that. :oops

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Originally Posted by ace3g

Right now my 3 choices would be Dominic McGuire, Kenyon Martin, or James Singleton.

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I consider McGuire and Singleton small forwards. Tbh, I've never seen McGuire play in the paint; in fact, last game of the season he was playing point guard for the Warriors for a stretch. Singleton is too small to survive as a full time four, IMO.

Kenyon Martin...

who is mel_13 anyway?

I have a strange feeling we'll end up with K-Mart, and that wouldn't be a bad fit (unless his histrionics on the court lead to chemistry issues, which is unlikely but not out of the realm of possibility).

Oh, and timvp, absolutely loving your writing over the past few months. IMHO, you've taken it to another level entirely. Thank you. :toast :D

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Originally Posted by SequSpur

Kenyon Martin...

who is mel_13 anyway?

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I don't know, except that he's a good poster with solid takes, unlike the trash you spread around the place... :lmao ;)

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Originally Posted by RuffnReadyOzStyle

Oh, and timvp, absolutely loving your writing over the past few months. IMHO, you've taken it to another level entirely. Thank you. :toast :D

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Stop kissing ass.

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Originally Posted by RuffnReadyOzStyle

I don't know, except that he's a good poster with solid takes, unlike the trash you spread around the place... :lmao ;)

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whatever..:rolleyes

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Originally Posted by SequSpur

Stop kissing ass.

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I'm not "kissing ass". I'm letting a friend know that his work is drastically improving even when it was very good to start with. It's called encouragement and support, mate. ;)

i say bring back dawson see what he can do again...

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Originally Posted by timvp

I consider McGuire and Singleton small forwards. Tbh, I've never seen McGuire play in the paint; in fact, last game of the season he was playing point guard for the Warriors for a stretch. Singleton is too small to survive as a full time four, IMO.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQODruTg09U

You guys could sign Birdman. I am assuming he will get amnestied before the deadline.

Hopefully he won't end up in jail.

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Originally Posted by NuGGeTs-FaN

You guys could sign Birdman. I am assuming he will get amnestied before the deadline.

Hopefully he won't end up in jail.

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I don't think the Spurs would want him. What exactly did he do? I recall they said in the playoffs last year he was helping the police? Was he actually helping them or was he being the one looked at for something?

We need some got damn above average post defense and toughness way more than anything else, even if it's true that our backup center does get shut down by point guards. Give me Turiaf or Martin over Scola or this budding bonner Leuer kid any day of the week.

J O'Neal would be sweet if his broke ass could play more than half a season.

Hoping for Martin.

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Originally Posted by Dingle Barry

We need some got damn above average post defense and toughness way more than anything else, even if it's true that our backup center does get shut down by point guards. Give me Turiaf or Martin over Scola or this budding bonner Leuer kid any day of the week.

J O'Neal would be sweet if his broke ass could play more than half a season.

Hoping for Martin.

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Your letting one play characterize your evaluation of Splitter. Plus Fisher is one of the best floppers ever. Lebron also failed to post up JJ Barea (who's smaller than Fisher) in the Finals. Does that characterize him?

TBH, i think Blair is just as good, if not better than most of the people on this list. yet, everyone wants these guys to leapfrog him in the rotation.

Blair is better and younger than turiaf in my opinion.

You either forgot about or neglected to mention Dorsey. He's basically a bigger, stronger Blair. Only unlike Blair, he's still an elite rebounder and he's actually a solid post defender too. He's not as skilled and he may not be Spurs material, but for the minimum and as a fifth big, they could do much worse.

Keith Benson carved up the Spurs' defense yesterday in SL. Did a lot of things the Spurs should want out of a mobile big man. I do think that if Richards shows just a little more in the next three games, he probably gets a roster spot for a season if he signs his tender and forces the issue.

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Originally Posted by Ice009

I don't think the Spurs would want him. What exactly did he do? I recall they said in the playoffs last year he was helping the police? Was he actually helping them or was he being the one looked at for something?

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A fan was stalking him, and then accused him of having kiddie porn on his computer.

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Originally Posted by TD 21

You either forgot about or neglected to mention Dorsey. He's basically a bigger, stronger Blair. Only unlike Blair, he's still an elite rebounder and he's actually a solid post defender too. He's not as skilled and he may not be Spurs material, but for the minimum and as a fifth big, they could do much worse.

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Forgot about Dorsey but I'm not a fan. 14th spot on the list at best. Undersized, horrible offensively, stays in the paint to rebound and a bad apple by most accounts. Plus, he's turning 29 at the beginning of the season so it's not like he has untapped upside. Considering rebounding is one of this team's main strengths, I'd probably pass on him altogether, tbh.

Hassan Whiteside was released today by the Kings. He has also been a pretty damn good shotblocker but still a major project. If the Spurs don't like Ajinca or Richards, Whiteside is a similar down-the-road player who may eventually blossom.

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Originally Posted by timvp

Forgot about Dorsey but I'm not a fan. 14th spot on the list at best. Undersized, horrible offensively, stays in the paint to rebound and a bad apple by most accounts. Plus, he's turning 29 at the beginning of the season so it's not like he has untapped upside. Considering rebounding is one of this team's main strengths, I'd probably pass on him altogether, tbh.

Hassan Whiteside was released today by the Kings. He has also been a pretty damn good shotblocker but still a major project. If the Spurs don't like Ajinca or Richards, Whiteside is a similar down-the-road player who may eventually blossom.

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He's not Spurs material, so I doubt they'd pursue him. As far as "rebounding is one of this team's main strengths", I think that's deceiving. They have one high level rebounder amongst their bigs and he only plays 28 mpg. Presuming they trade Blair (which is the point of this thread), they could use another big that rebounds at at least a respectable level.

Whiteside is known to be immature and lacking in basketball IQ, so I doubt they'll pursue him. Speaking of Whiteside and Richards, supposedly the Kings promised Richards they'd pick him at 33 in '10, but when Whiteside unexpectedly fell to them, obviously that changed.

It looks more and more that Rockets will waive Leuer. He doesn't play at all with their SL team. Unless he is injured, he should be waived before Thursday when his contract became guaranteed. Once waived, the big risk is that a team claims him from waivers because Spurs are very far on the waivers picking order. With the ruling on early bird rights being kept when someone is claim from waivers, this risk is even bigger.

Another name that pop up is Andray Blatche. He will likely be amnestied by Wizards. The min offer he could claim for is $3.7M over 3 years. That's not a lot of money but it's still some money and a lot of teams will be scared by all the red flags surrounding him. Blatche would be easily worth a gamble. If Pop can make him again a committed player, he would be a terrific addition for Spurs.

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Originally Posted by Bruno

It looks more and more that Rockets will waive Leuer. He doesn't play at all with their SL team. Unless he is injured, he should be waived before Thursday when his contract became guaranteed. Once waived, the big risk is that a team claims him from waivers because Spurs are very far on the waivers picking order. With the ruling on early bird rights being kept when someone is claim from waivers, this risk is even bigger.

Another name that pop up is Andray Blatche. He will likely be amnestied by Wizards. The min offer he could claim for is $3.7M over 3 years. That's not a lot of money but it's still some money and a lot of teams will be scared by all the red flags surrounding him. Blatche would be easily worth a gamble. If Pop can make him again a committed player, he would be a terrific addition for Spurs.

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I'm still holding out hope for Tyrus Thomas. But Blatche fits what the Spurs want to do on the court. The only thing I would be worried about is how long Pop gives PT to Bonner before deciding to give Blatche a chance to develop.

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Originally Posted by Ginobili2Duncan

I'm still holding out hope for Tyrus Thomas. But Blatche fits what the Spurs want to do on the court. The only thing I would be worried about is how long Pop gives PT to Bonner before deciding to give Blatche a chance to develop.

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Pop would give Bonner PT over Blatche?
http://shoppingcartdisco.com/wp-cont...5/facepalm.jpg

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Originally Posted by Duncan2177

Pop would give Bonner PT over Blatche?
http://shoppingcartdisco.com/wp-cont...5/facepalm.jpg

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It's a legitimate concern given the long leash Bonner has had for the last four years,especially early into the season. The question is how far into the season will he keep doing it.

Yeah the combined 6 mins in three games he got at the end of the year clearly prove that.