McDonald: Bonner Lifts Spurs Again

[raspsa]

I know that they don't give style points in the NBA, and it doesn't make a what the guy looks like. Or what you think he looks like.

I know that he didn't suddenly start scoring off the dribble by accident. He's put in a of a lot of work to improve that part of his game. Fans are supposed to appreciate that kind of thing.

I know that he used to collect his first PF within about 60 seconds of entering the game. He is defending a lot better, and collecting fewer fouls than he used to. That doesn't happen by accident either.

I know that anybody can have a good night or two. But when a guy starts performing consistently, it isn't luck. We haven't seen Bonner in the playoffs yet (as a starter) but that game in Boston was pretty intense. He's becoming more consistent every week, and seems to be handling the pressure pretty well.

I know that people who make snyde references to the Special Olympics, and talk about people looking "re ed" are absolutely ing ignorant. There are parents everywhere who are proud of their children competing in the Special Olympics. Some of them might even be reading these forums. And you know where you can shove your thimble.

Bonner is working his ass off and deserves respect, specially from Spurs fans. People who make insensitive and glib remarks just show their ignorance and jealousy at his success. I can't understand why people can't be happy for what he's accomplished so far and instead must find ways to pull him down.. sad.

[Manu-of-steel]

REBOUNDS

The Spurs made 18 of 20 free throws. The Nets made 7 of 9. ... The Super Bowl’s most valuable player, Santonio Holmes of the Pittsburgh Steelers, sat courtside.
Im not into superbowl, but im sure this MVP from pittsburg is rooting for the spurs to win. Just look at his NAME.lol

[hater]

damn!

Matt Bonner is Spursdynasty!!!!

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

That updated version of the article was a surprisingly good read, well done McDonald.

[dbestpro]

The Lakers do a good job of crowding Bonner at the 3 and he doesn't have the foot speed to compensate. I hate to say this but maybe the time to trade Bonner is now while his stock is at an all time high.

[m33p0]

I know that they don't give style points in the NBA, and it doesn't make a what the guy looks like. Or what you think he looks like.

I know that he didn't suddenly start scoring off the dribble by accident. He's put in a of a lot of work to improve that part of his game. Fans are supposed to appreciate that kind of thing.

I know that he used to collect his first PF within about 60 seconds of entering the game. He is defending a lot better, and collecting fewer fouls than he used to. That doesn't happen by accident either.

I know that anybody can have a good night or two. But when a guy starts performing consistently, it isn't luck. We haven't seen Bonner in the playoffs yet (as a starter) but that game in Boston was pretty intense. He's becoming more consistent every week, and seems to be handling the pressure pretty well.

I know that people who make snyde references to the Special Olympics, and talk about people looking "re ed" are absolutely ing ignorant. There are parents everywhere who are proud of their children competing in the Special Olympics. Some of them might even be reading these forums. And you know where you can shove your thimble.

[MoSpur]

Bonner's mid-range game is very good too. The dude has it all. I'm kidding.

[Dex]

For some reason, I want a cheeseburger whenever I read one of this guy's articles.

[Chomag]

I'll have to admit that I was one of those that had given up on Bonner being a contributer for the Spurs.

I'll have to say I'm pleased he has pr-oven me wrong and I have to give the Man mad props for that. Now I'm pulling for him to keep up his confidence and level of play all the way to the championship.

You can do it MAd Bonner!

[m33p0]

he was doing it last year when Tim went down. but a couple of bad games shot down his confidence. he probably didn't expect the minutes he got last season. but this year, he has come back with a vengeance.

[xellos88330]

I am happy for Matt Bonner. Whenever I see him actually drive the lane, I feel like he is going to turn it over, but he proves me wrong. Kinda makes me feel like watching Manu a little bit... its so wierd that it cant be possible, or can it?

[lefty]

boner lifts spurs again....nice le

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I'm impressed by how well Bonner is improving his trade value.

[SenorSpur]

Remember Bonner had a ton of wide open looks in that Jan game versus the Fakers. Yet he missed most of them - as did other open shooters. The deal is now Bonner is shooting and playing with so much more confidence. It's amusing now to watch opposing defenders rush at Bonner, in an effort to drive him off the 3-pt line. A ultimate sign of respect.

[Brazil]

It's crazy to see how confidence can transform a player. He is a total new player, if he continues to play like that we don't need another big. I know it's a big IF but as of today even without moves on the squad, I would be with a good level of hope against any teams including the lakers in the PO.

[The Truth #6]

Yes, Bonner is now having big games in big games, which is a good sign for the playoffs. It wasn't that long ago in the season that he would fold in big games. His progress this season has been steady and I think he's getting better at being in the tight moments of an important game. Again, a great sign for the playoffs.

If we play the Lakers, they love to pack the paint and make us shoot from outside. If Bonner can keep hitting shots in big games, and Parker's outside shot remains strong we will be a much better team than last year.

Question - does anyone know how common it is for a volume 3 point shooter like Bonner to average 50% for the season? I'm curious if this has been done anytime recently.

[SenorSpur]

+1

I will never understand the ridicule Bonner receives for driving to the hoop on ST. Sure he might look funny, but that what everyone here wants the Spurs to do. But without fail, someone will make fun of a Matt drive, even if he scores.

+2

Personally, I don't give a about style points, so long as it goes in. Still counts as 2 points. Now, it may make for comedic fodder on Sportscenter - but that's another story.

[SenorSpur]

Yes, Bonner is now having big games in big games, which is a good sign for the playoffs. It wasn't that long ago in the season that he would fold in big games. His progress this season has been steady and I think he's getting better at being in the tight moments of an important game. Again, a great sign for the playoffs.

If we play the Lakers, they love to pack the paint and make us shoot from outside. If Bonner can keep hitting shots in big games, and Parker's outside shot remains strong we will be a much better team than last year.

Question - does anyone know how common it is for a volume 3 point shooter like Bonner to average 50% for the season? I'm curious if this has been done anytime recently.

I know that Jason Kapono did it for Miami in '06-'07 (.514) on 214 atts. Before that, Tim Legler did it in 95-96 (.522) on 245 atts. Steve Kerr accomplished the feat in '94-'95 on only 170 atts. I believe the minimum is 55 attempts.