PtR Game 4 Quick Cap: It Was Almost a Game

by Tim C. on Apr 25, 2009 9:43 PM CDT in Game Previews & Recaps Comment 157 comments

Well, this is not the recap any of us were hoping for - we've all seen this movie before. The team has never missed Manu as much as they missed him tonight. [Yea, that's right Pop - I mentioned Manu, it's as if he actually exists in my mind.] This was a tightly-reffed game, which only added to the insult since the Spurs are still the Spurs when they're at the free-throw line, even if they're beginning to resemble the Sacramento Kings in every other phase of the game.

There were some flashes of hope, followed by those hopes falling back to Earth. Most notably, the 2nd quarter was all Spurs, all the time. The defense and offense were both in sync, and we went into the half up by 4. We then lost that lead mere moments into the 3rd, in typical Spurs fashion.

Pop made some decisions we've been hoping for, and some that left us scratching our heads and/or banging them into the walls. George Hill played, and looked good - even ATS's best friend Reggie Miller wanted to know where Pop has been hiding the kid for the whole series. He also continued to go with guys who have had no impact in this series whatsoever, telling us crazy kids to get off his lawn with our logic and common sense. "See, I played your guy and we still lost" [Where Pop is cleverly not mentioning that Red Rocket is a catastrophe in this series].

So, where do we begin?

Let's start with what went right.

Tony was unstoppable for most of this game, on offense. He was 18-29 for 43 points, and had 4 steals. And that's what went right for him.

As the game went on, however, Tony became something of a liability. He had 31 points and 3 assists at the half. He finished the game with 43 points and 3 assists - that's right, ZERO assists in the second half. What's more, he started to turn the ball over. This is not to say it was all Tony's fault, though. He set up Ime, Findog, Mason and Bonner multiple times, but they couldn't hit the 3. If those guys are making shots, Tony probably gets a double-double and doesn't have to wear himself out trying to win the game on his own.

Also, in the second half, he wasn't even trying to get a hand in Kidd's face on 3-point attempts. Kidd was 3-7 on those tonight, and at least two of his makes(by my count) were in that second half with Tony just standing there and watching. Tony wasn't totally inept on the defensive end, though. He did keep Ericka Dampier from getting an easy dunk by fouling. Overall, Tony was competing as hard as anybody in a black jersey today.

And then there's Tim Duncan. In the first half, Timmeh was also on his game, despite only getting 4 rebounds. In the second half, he made mental errors, which are not like him at all. He was caught out of position several times on defense(including the aforementioned Tony foul on Ericka) and the Spurs got burned for it. This is not totally Timmeh's fault, either - If Findog or Bonner(among others) could stay in front of their man, Timmeh doesn't have to leave his man to help. The offensive foul when he plowed into Dirk was the real killer, though. Timmeh assumed Dirk was inside the circle and kept going right at Dirk - that was a big mistake.

Our "shooters" weren't very helpful today, and I would put the bulk of the blame on Pop for continuing to go to them, even running a play out of the timeout late in the 4th for a Bonner fallaway corner 3. Every time Findog, Mason, Bonner, or Udoka shot, you could reasonably expect one of these:

via www.innfusion.com

In fact, those 4 shot a combined 2-17. If they make their usual percentage, we win.

Especially egregious is Pop's obsession with playing Bonner for so many minutes. Matty played 22 minutes tonight, and even with the aforementioned set play, he manage to get all of 4 shots off(none of which he made). Ime played 19 minutes, and also shot 0-4, but he was actually doing a decent job on the defensive end, so it's more easily forgivable. Memo to Pop: Matt can't even slow Dirk down - if he's not taking the shot when he has the chance(remember, 4 shots in 22 minutes), keep your promise and yank him from the game. Thomas will at least give you defense, and even Gooden is athletic enough to make things more difficult for Dirk.

Pothead killed us all night. Why? Defense again. Bruce and George made things difficult for Barea and Terry, but Findog was "guarding" Howard for most of his 36 minutes on the floor. It wasn't pretty, as Howard was simply escorted to the rim multiple times in the second half. Unfortunately, we don't have enough good defenders to throw out there to guard all 3 of the Mavs' slashers - we just have to hope one of them has an off game, or give Ime more minutes, neither of which are very exciting options from this fan's perspective.

The offensive rebounding in this series is getting ridiculous. They got 14 tonight, including a 4th quarter possession where the Mavs got off 3 three-point attempts, the last of which went in. This is basketball 101 - just box out.

I'll leave you with a bright spot: George Hill has been freed, and Pop would be wise to continue letting him play. Everyone's favorite rookie from IUPUI (drink!) played a pretty excellent game. He got to the rim, and even though he was blocked, they were forced to respect him and give him space after that. George used that space to knock down the only other shots he took - two threes from the corner. His D was excellent, and he actually forced a couple of TO's, even though he's not credited in the box score for that. We need this kind of defensive effort from somebody not named Hill or Bowen if we're to recover from this.

via a.espncdn.com

One of these things doesn't belong on the court, and it isn't the rookie.

Our bench scored 10 points. 6 of those were from George Hill. Guess who needs more playing time?

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Comments

It’s been said before but I’ll say it again: if the front office blames this all on Manu’s injury and we don’t do anything to fix it, we’re toasted for a long, long time.

by One4theThumb on Apr 25, 2009 8:29 PM CDT reply actions 2 recs

I'll say it again

Jail Matt Bonner!!!!!

Keep Hill Free!!!

Oh.. and..

Oh.. and..Remember the Alamo!!!

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 25, 2009 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

and why in the hell am I getting doubles on what I write?? x2!!

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 25, 2009 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

quick, how many fingers am I holding up?

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 25, 2009 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey!!

That’s the kind (or those are the kinds??) of hands we need on our team!! Who is that or where can we get some?!?

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!! (Founding Member)

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 25, 2009 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not sure..

my Xanax has not kicked in yet….

Ummmm…. 247… that I can see. Assuming that the hand’s hand’s hand’s hand’s don’t have hands (or fingers for that matter). Whew!!

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 25, 2009 9:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Exposed

This series has exposed how overrated our FO is. The fact is that Tony, Tim and Manu are SO good that they’ve covered up our FO’s ineptitude. And the truth is that they got lucky with Tony and Manu. They drafted them way late as afterthoughts, and got lucky that they were better (or became better in TP’s case) then anyone ever dreamed. But the rest of the guys are mediocre at best or misused by Pop. Matt was good during the first half of the season because no one knew him, they just left him out beyond the arc, thinking he couldn’t possibly make those with any regularity. Once he proved them wrong, they adjusted their defense and exposed the fact that he sucks on defense and can’t shoot worth a shit if there is anything even remotely resembling pressure. Roger is a shooting guard, not a point guard. Sure it made sense for Pop to try him at point, but good grief, you’d have to be blind not see that he sucks as a PG AND that it has affected his shooting as well. And Fin: jeeez. The guy has a good shooting game once every 7 or 8 games and everyone thinks Pop is a genius, never mind that he sucks on defense every game. But there he is, game in, game out, in the starting lineup and guarding the opponent’s best scorer. WTF. The FO has surrounded the Big # with shit and Manu’s absence has exposed it this series. The one guy who could have helped us significantly (LS), they sent to a divisional opponent for nothing. Oh, and did I mention that they did get us Nick van exel and Damon Stoudamire … when they were in wheel chairs.

by agutierrez on Apr 25, 2009 9:55 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs

Roger was a great sign. It’s not the FO’s fault Pop plays Roger at the wrong position half the time he’s on the floor. Also we got the steal of the draft this past year in George Hill at pick 28. We also drafted Splitter 2 years ago-who could have known he was going to opt to stay in Europe. Not to mention our FO has maintained class and dignity by not going after morally unsound individuals. Bottom line, If Manu and Ian didn’t have glass ankles and Tiago had decided to come to SA we’d be on a our way to a 2007 finals rematch. The FO has done their job. Our product isn’t up to standard though because of some terrible luck.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

obviously our FO is not perfect and i agree with manuwar (clever name btw) that we’ve come across some bad luck, as all teams do (except the Lakers who get given all-star 7 footers). this would be a different team if we had Tiago, Ian and Manu all of which weren’t the FO’s fault. But then there is the string of bad decsions i.e. not signing Scola, i know we would have had to buy him out but he is actually making less than Fab is, then there is the small issue of currently paying Thomas, Bowen, Finley, and Fab a combined $13.5 mil a year – now thats money well spent, and finally just the increased reliance on the big 3 offensively, the FO, and i blame this mainly on Pop’s outdated offensive philosophy, has refused to bring in anyone that can create his own shot outside the big 3. If we had just one other person that could get to the rim and had the green light to do so from Pop i honestly and truely believe that we would be up 3-1 and the 3 wins would be blow-outs.

wait a second we do have 1 player that can create his own shot but i guess his talents are better served on the bench or shooting corner threes as the shot clock is winding down.

by staves27 on Apr 26, 2009 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

so true…I place more blame on Pop than the FO

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Everyone knew Splitter would stay in Europe.

by One4theThumb on Apr 27, 2009 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Absolutely not true

Quite the contrary, everyone thought he would be joining the NBA. I remember a chat with John Hollinger on ESPN.com in the playoffs where a NOOCH fan asked something like “what’s up with the Spurs and their foreigners’ flopping all the time?” JH responded that he didn’t think they were any worse than other teams, but that the commenter should wait until Splitter joined them. It was considered a foregone conclusion that Splitter would join the Spurs before this season until about a week or two before he resigned with Tau. When the news broke that he would stay overseas, it was quite a shock around the league.

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

by tomasito on Apr 27, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

AGutierrez I Second That Emotion

You stole my thunder. I was just about to post when I read your comments and I agree with almost everything you stated. After game 1 I posted the following comments on this blog: “If Tim or Tony had laid an egg in game 1 and They lost I could live with the end result. The truth is I don’t know if we’re going to get a much better performance out of those two than we did Sat. nite. You combine that with the fact that Dirk had a pretty avg. night and Kidd didn’t have much of an impact and to me that spells trouble.”

I wasn’t sure if we could get a better performance out of Timmy and T.P. and we did and we still lost. The time has come to stop giving Pop and R.C. a pass only the fact that the big 3 have been so incredible has camaflouged the fact that the Spurs haven’t had a decent supporting cast since 2003.

The Spurs lack of quality role players was evident last year when the big 3 had to score 90 pts. a game just to give the Spurs an opportunity to win. It’s time for the big 3 to have a coming to Jesus meeting with Pop and R.C. and demand that something be done or were going to squander what little time remains in this championship window.

by Este on Apr 25, 2009 10:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

+1
Amen

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!! (Founding Member)

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 25, 2009 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

George Hill from ooey pooey!

by Linix129 on Apr 25, 2009 11:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Roll The Bones Pop

The fat lady may not be singing but she’s approaching the mic. Might as well shake things up here’s who I like to see start on Tues. TP, Hill, Bowen, Gooden, Duncan. Granted this unit doesn’t give you a lot of offensive punch but they could set the tone with D. Mason comes off the bench to provide a little spark. And it’s not like Bonner and Ocean are giving you any O.

by Este on Apr 25, 2009 11:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I’m looking forward to the offseason. I dunno about you all. Not that I don’t love the Spurs, or will support them any less, but that I’ll no longer have to rack my brain as to why these ‘4-time-Champions’ cannot get past the freking Mavs in the first round!

A whooooooooooole lotta ‘woulda/coulda/shoulda’ scenarios are going through my mind, right now. I’ll leave it at that.

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 12:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I definitely agree with agutierrez. Although with Bonner, I think his inability to make his shots and his lack of athleticism is what’s making him a liability but besides Udoka, he’s the only guy who’s seldom lost in defensive rotations and is quick to cover the help defender’s man which can’t be said of Finley and Mason who can’t even keep up with a smaller Barea. And Gooden, now I understand why he’s been traded a number of times, he’s soft, taking long jumpers when Nowitzki was guarding him instead of mixing it up in the paint. Hope we’d get a better supporting cast next season.

by 21td on Apr 26, 2009 12:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

its not over yet. i believe.

…even though it may be better for the franchise in the long term to get bounced so soundly in the first round.

free george hill!

by sleep research facility on Apr 26, 2009 2:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sup. JUst wanted to state the percieved problem here.

Many think playing george hill could have affected the outcome of the series.

Affected in what way?

A fair question in my estimation. I have seen all the games, and when George wasnt throwing BONE headed passes that led to direct turnovers, he was getting rejected at the rim by josh howard or that other shithead i cannot even name. The guy who was yelling after every stupid play, like he was Conan the barbarian.

Yet in the last game George hit two threes and played some good defense,

Maybe he could have helped out more ,or certainly hurt the team more.

This is not why the series is being lost.

It is because of no interior shotblocker ( aside from Tim Duncan , who is plainly playing like a shadow of his former self, except for this game, where the bulk of his points resulted from crafty parker drives and dishes off of deep pick and rolls)

Its because there is NOBODY on the team that can get to the hoop in under 30 minutes, with the sole exception of tony parker.

The lack of athleticism is truly remarkable, and hasnt been a problem…..until now.

How much better do you think this team would be if there was a good basketball player getting the minutes that are now being played by the atrocity known as Ime Udoka?

So many people in here like to blast michael finley because of his spotty defense.

Where would this team be if not for Michaels timely buckets in …oh say like the last 15 games of just the regular season? The seventh seed? Ninth?

Instead people should be focusing on Imes play. Good defender? Yes.

But that thing he does with the ball ….i think he calls it offense……..it KILLS this team.

This game was a great example of it.

by alamobro on Apr 26, 2009 4:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Bonner….why state the obvious.

Lost all confidence in his shot. Without which, hes useless.

by alamobro on Apr 26, 2009 4:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

rc bufford’s the culprit…

got complacent wid 2nd round picks and cheap oldies….

PURPLE & GOLD BABY!!!

by juanman888 on Apr 26, 2009 8:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This is it guys. Show it to the Spurs. There’s seems to be a lot of paralles. You’ll notice what city they’re in, and the color of the uniforms. If it doesn’t make you want to play the Mavs and beat them yourself then, I dunno.

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 10:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO4tIrjBDkk

(meant to be up there—————-^ )

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

PLEASE draft Tyler Hansborough.

by Linix129 on Apr 26, 2009 11:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Uhhh what? So we can have an undersized energy guy? Lots of guys think he’s gonna be in the D-League by January. That is nothing we need. We need a wing player that can score. Not a small inside role player

by One4theThumb on Apr 26, 2009 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Eek. I am not a Hansbrough fan. Too small, too . . . I don’t know. He seems like one of those classic UNC/Duke stars — a great college player who doesn’t become a great NBA player.

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’d rather trade the pick for cash than take him

by One4theThumb on Apr 26, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Call me crazy, but I still have hope for Ian to come back and be that athlete we so desperately need roaming the paint. It won’t be this soon-to-end season obviously, but if he’s healthy next year, he needs to start the season in SA, not Austin. It’s time to give the kid a chance. Also, as was mentioned above, we have 0 first-rounders this year anyway, because we traded ours to the ~~Sonics~~ Thunder. I’m still collecting my thoughts for a big “what the hell are we gonna do in the offseason” post, but it doesn’t involve anyone we can draft.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, he’s overated.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 26, 2009 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If we can get him in the 2nd round, maybe. At least he’s a winner and a hardworker. How about trading TP to climb up the draft board and pick Ricky Rubio? Juuuust kidding.

http://roleplaya.blogspot.com

by silverandblack_davis on Apr 26, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BAN TP!?!!???? What kind of an asinine idea is that.

What kind of Spurs fan are you to suggest such a thing, even in jest?

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 26, 2009 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Whoa. I think people are becoming too testy and on the edge lately (see Hipuks and Manuwar conversation below). I guess that’s the effect of losing. No harm intended, JRW and to other Spurs fans who might feel offended. I love TP and I’m sure he’ll hold the torch when TD and Manu decide to walk away from the game.

But I also like Rubio, and you know, this upcoming draft and the current season invites me to think of crazy, fantasy scenarios.

http://roleplaya.blogspot.com

by silverandblack_davis on Apr 26, 2009 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know, most sarcasmeters problems can be fixed by oneself. No need to calls technicians who overcharge you for simple problems.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 26, 2009 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Silverandblack, that was a joke.

I guess I thought that my reputation as the “Trade Tony” guy had spread farther and wider that it actually had. * smirk*

Here and here are the relevant posts — from back in December, if you feel like seeing what had gone before.

No offense taken, and certainly none intended.

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 26, 2009 10:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was all over that early in the season

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My bad, JRW. I knew there was a trade Manu guy and there was a trade Tony guy but I didn’t know who was which. Stupid me for not remembering persons, but I did get to those posts of yours.

And speaking of sarcasm, I’ve lurked in PtR for a couple of years, back in the days before it transferred to SB Nation, and almost one season in as a semi-active poster/commenter (?). Still, I find it hard at times to decipher if people are sarcastic or not. Sheesh.

http://roleplaya.blogspot.com

by silverandblack_davis on Apr 26, 2009 10:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who on earth would ever consider trading away Manu!?

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed.

by CMoney on Apr 26, 2009 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Right! That’s what I’m talking about!

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 26, 2009 11:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well I heard it was a founding of the Dumas family… The name seems to slip my mind, though.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 27, 2009 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol, I was one of those crazy people who thought Hill was good enough to allow for a trade. Oops.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not a Hansborough fan at all.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed.

by CMoney on Apr 26, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Heh

(meant to be up there—————-^ )

*So were most of the Spur’s shots…..

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!! (Founding Member)

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 11:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's Broken

The big 3 have disguised the fact that mistakes have been made. After the Spurs are eliminated maybe the local media and fans will stop giving these guys a pass.

by Este on Apr 26, 2009 11:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Anyone watching Bulls/C’s?

by One4theThumb on Apr 26, 2009 1:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I am. I was just thinking that here I am, rooting against the Celtics, when they’re in a similar predicament as the Spurs. But still. I want the Bulls to win.

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chippy chippy chippy!

I hope no ejections . . .

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Big Baby acting like he was head-butted. Pfft.

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice. Bulls up 2 with 31 seconds to go.

This series has produced some kickass games.

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OOH, Celtics missed a layup to tie! And then the Bulls grabbed the rebound!

KG is looking intensely disappointed.

Too bad Thomas didn’t pass before he got fouled, because he’s practically as bad as the Spurs at FTs.

Yeah, he only made 1, so Celtics can still tie with a 3. And there are 16 seconds remaining.

::biting nails::

And here’s the inbounds. . .. Ray Allen WIDE OPEN, why? he goes for 3 . . . Sonuvabitch, he MADE IT. But still 9 seconds left, so can the Bulls respond?

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Daaaaamn. Overtime.

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My teams are just NOT coming through this weekend.

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OT not looking so good for los Toros.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bulls need a stop. They’ll get it back with a few ticks left.

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rikkido i really enjoy your recaps just fyi. I much appreciate your realism. Anyways this series is unfortunately over, and as much as i don’t want to be knocked out by the lamest team in all of sports, i guess its better this way. i think that the spurs will win on tuesday but that the mavs will take it in 6 as many predicted. unfortunate.

I know that people are looking forward to next year and all the things the FO will hopefully fix but i think we will probably have the same exact team next year with the same problems. As mentioned above we traded our pick this year to the Sonics/Thunder for kurt thomas and we have $0 for next season especially since the cap is going down.

see for yourself: http://hoopshype.com/salaries/san_antonio.htm

i don’t know if we will have a mid-level or biannual exception, because i don’t know how any of that works. The only value we have to offer in a trade are Bonners, Fabs, Thomas’, Bowen’s, Fin’s, and Mason’s expiring contracts. I know people want to clear room on their cap, but would any team really trade anyone of value (except for an overpaid player) for these guys? I would have to guess no. So besides loosing Fatality and the JV to free agency and hopefully having a healthy Yawn i think we will have the same team.

i don’t like being a debbier downer so if i’m wrong please someone tell me, because i really want to believe differently.

by staves27 on Apr 26, 2009 2:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

heh, thanks for the kind words. I already had that hoopshype page bookmarked due to something I’m working on for later(great minds think alike). Do you know what the cap is supposed to be for next season, though? I saw the number months ago, but I’ve since forgotten it. We desperately need a new SF next year, and I’d like to figure out what we have to work with. Although knowing Holt(and I’m surprised nobody’s said this before, maybe they’re afraid to even think of it), we may be one of those teams looking to clear cap space if it gets reduced much.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

a few weeks back i read somewhere on espn.com that the cap would be in the neighborhood of $60 mil. but Stern hadn’t released the exact amount at that time, he may have by now. So if that’s the case then you may be right that the spurs will be looking to clear some cap space since it appears the Spurs will be well over that amount. I don’t really know how all that works. But i’m interested to see what you can come up with. I’m looking forward to seeing some realistic options that will actually help the team, just so I know they are out there. I’m sure the FO will ignore any and all ways to actually get better that involve young athletic players.

by staves27 on Apr 26, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Know what’s scary? I’ve been checking out the salary situations of other Western playoff teams, and Portland is going to be way under the cap(while keeping all of their rotation players, and can afford to sign the veteran leader/road warrior they’ve been needing. They might just end up with Jason Kidd(free agent), which means there’s going to be some real competition in the West next year.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don’t forget about Darius Miles.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man…how much do they owe him? 9M or something?

http://myspace.com/eme0916
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=569220294&ref=profile

by Ed (dfjmed) on Apr 26, 2009 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh yea, hoopshype doesn’t quite have that one on the books.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

also look here:

http://www.shamsports.com/content/pages/data/salaries/index.jsp

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 5:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

on top of your shit. and

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you are looking for major players in free agency, look at Detroit.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ya i agree that Portland is going to be scary next year even if they don’t have quite as much money as they would have if Memphis hadn’t screwed them over by signing and playing Miles. Maybe memphis was trying to make it up to the rest of the West by lowering Portland’s cap space after it gave Gasol to the Lakers and made the Laker’s and Kobe relevant again. Thanks again for that Memphis. But whats crazy is how many kinda “has been” big names are available this summer with their max or close to max contracts expiring. Is it possible that the following are going to be available for maybe around the midlevel: Iverson, Kidd, Sheed, Marion, and i have a feeling there are still one or two more. I still think all 4 of those guys still have enough left to be a steal for a couple years at 5 or 6 mil a year. I know that the Pistons are all washed up and that he’s had a crappy year but of all the possible big men available i wouldn’t mind having Sheed for something like the vets minimum (which i doubt he’d take). If Kidd is smart he’ll leave Dallas and go to Portland, they have enough cash to make it worth his while at least a bit. I think Kidd still has 2 more years left in him, and he would make that Portland team scary good, but i’m sure he’ll be getting courted by Kobe and Lebron pretty hard as well.

by staves27 on Apr 26, 2009 4:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The big reason I think Kidd goes to Portland instead of LA is that the Lakers have a worse salary situation than we do. I know they’re a big market team and can better afford to go further over the cap, but they haven’t been very willing to do that in the past.

On ‘Sheed: I’ve changed my mind on this one, since Gooden has not exactly given us much in the playoffs. His skill set does compliment Timmy’s almost perfectly, even though he’s getting long in the tooth. I wouldn’t mind getting him, but it would have to be relatively cheap(and only a 1-year deal, so we can sign Tiago for 2010-11).

Our greatest need is at SF, and I’m really perplexed as to how the Spurs fix that problem, unless two of the three draft picks we’ve had the last couple years (Marcus Williams/Hairston/Gist) work out. I think at least one of those guys should be on the roster full time next year, instead of being recalled/re-assigned to the Toros over and over. Being on the roster full time has done wonders for Hill, and maybe Bowen can teach one of our young wing prospects how to play aggressive D, the way he has with Hill. This salary cap reduction might be the kick in the pants that Pop/RC need to start using the young, athletic guys in our system, which would be a very nice change of pace. All is not lost, but the first phase of rebuilding has to begin this offseason.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone going to watch the Philly/Orlando and Houston/Portland games?

And if so, should we start a Sunday Night ~~Loser~~ Leisure thread?

by Lauri on Apr 26, 2009 5:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It can’t hurt to start it. If it doesn’t pan out, and nobody is around to partake, you can always delete it.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Out for a while… Gonna go find some Eddie Izzard clips on Youtube and pray Tuesday gets here fast and ends quickly.

Although I’m not a Twitter-er, I do have myspace.. Feel free to add if you want, just let me know you are a PtR-er.
http://www.myspace.com/absolutely_cynical

OMG…. the same screen name.. Yea, I’m just random like that.

Have a great night everyone!!!

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!! (Founding Member)

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 5:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This series isn’t over. We’ve come back from worse. I’ll give up when they hammer the last nail on the coffin, and never before.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 7:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What happened to Gooden?

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do you mean why wasn’t he productive in game 4? Beats me. A few times he posted up Dirk but couldn’t get anything going. As odd as it sounds I think Gooden plays better against shot blockers because he uses a lot of head fakes and up unders.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 9:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

When he gets in a big game he plays like the scouting report says he will: gets lost on team defense, takes lots of long jumpers. He attacked the rim and had nice post moves in the regular season, not so much in the playoffs.

by One4theThumb on Apr 27, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I saw him play well in this series. I only missed one game.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 27, 2009 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m with you, LD.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 26, 2009 8:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m starting to think perhaps it will be better for us to lose. What’s the point of advancing and then getting really badly beaten in the second round? Have you seen the other teams? We freaking suck compared to them. Maybe if we lose in the first round some necessary changes will come out of this.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 26, 2009 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

okay then cellebrate if the Mavs win this series if thats how you feel.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah sure, I’ll celebrate with strippers and vodka like I did when I found out Manu was out for the playoffs.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 26, 2009 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re the one with the “it’s better if we lose” attitude. sorry man

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re the one with the delusional hope for a win. Even if we win this series, it’s over in the next. If you want to ignore reality, enjoy your made up world.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 26, 2009 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I’m not delusional. I’m also not a bandwaggon fan who only cheers for my team when we are a sure shot favorite to win.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least I’m in touch with the reality around me, you’re like a willing schizophrenic. Bandwagon fan? Go check the early season threads when it was me and three other members at most writing comments on games of the Spurs against Bobcats, Clippers, Minnesota, and such other luminaries.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 26, 2009 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Have I ever said something to the extent of “we are going all the way” or “we don’t need Manu to win…”? I’m not delusional and I surely don’t think we have an advantage in this series being down 3-1. But I am not going to stop rooting for the Spurs. Sorry.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chillax, fellas. The realist folks should let us hopeless romantics flutter about.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, when the hopeless romantics stop accusing the realists of wanting the worst for their team.

My tapeworm tells me what to do.

by Hipuks on Apr 27, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

True, true. Let’s all chillax.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 27, 2009 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Some of us were at the Minnesota games :(

by One4theThumb on Apr 27, 2009 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The point is not losing to the Dallas Mavericks and Cuban.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BTW… if people want to get testy with someone.. How about Cynthia’s comment on “Poll: Most despised Mav V2”

Now there’s something to gripe about.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s a Mavs fan, right? Who cares?

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Normally I wouldn’t… but say one bad thing to them on their blog about their precious Mavs and see what happens. Wouldn’t be surprised if you get the boot. BTW.. Glad most of ya’ll are above that.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, each blog has its own rules. Banning people like that would be exhausting, and not really needed.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 11:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know I have not been a member for very long but that has to be the first time I have seen a Mavs fan on here talking smack… Other than the obvious Jet21 that is…

Is it something you deal with often? Just curious, you made it sound like it happens all the time.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 11:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fans talking smack? Uh, from time to time, not that common. We’ve had spammers, though, and a few recurring ones.

I didn’t mean exhausting in that we’d have to ban 10 people per day. Maintaining that level of vigilance seems exhausting to me, though. Why bother? They usually post once and never come back. What would be gained banning them? You risk being too strict and missing the opportunity to have some good-natured banter with the enemy.

Anyway, that’s how I see it. ATS might have his own ideas, and he’s the guy that writes the rules. Ask him.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 11:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Got it. Read the guidelines for this blog and they seem really straight forward.

Was reading some on the King’s blog (I’m an old Beno fan.. eek!!) and theirs clearly states “No crapping in threads”… how ambiguous is that?? Talking about spammers I guess??

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 11:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The longer we remain in the playoffs, the longer our newer players have to soak in the knowledge that comes along with being in the playoffs. First hand experience and learning from a variety of different game situations may be useful and could ultimately help us down the road.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 27, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perseverance !!! I share your perspective.

by cojones2thewall on Apr 26, 2009 9:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He sucks.

by Linix129 on Apr 26, 2009 7:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My thoughts on the game

1. We have a team of “shooters” that are afraid or dont want to shoot. Udoka, Bowen, Bonner all had opportunities to shoot three pointers at times and passed them up. The 3pt shot selection last game was awful.
2. George Hill is lost on offense and occasionally on defense. Even though I think we should play him now and get him acclimated and some big game experience, I understand why Pop did not want to play him initially.
3. The Spurs defense from game 2 has completely disappeared. Im starting to suspect Cuban hired some thugs and kidnapped it. It baffles me how that defense just made a one game apparition.
4. Pop threw a plastic bottle (I believe it was on Bonner hand-off foul) during the game. I the time I thought it was funny and was thinking how frustrated he must be. Then my girlfriend told me that they were talking about it in ESPN. Is there an “investigation” by the league regarding this? Are they looking to fine Pop?

"If an expert says it can't be done, get another expert"
- DBG

by LasEspuelas on Apr 26, 2009 8:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think it’s a matter of confidence, or lack thereof, why the three-pointers aren’t falling. Our shooters are taking mostly open shots, and not really under heavy duress. They just need to make shots, that’s it. Our pure reliance on TP and TD won’t take us anywhere.

As for Hill, I’d like to give the kid the benefit of the doubt because Bonner and Finley have been getting so badly beaten on defense. And as has been said many times in this webspace, Pop continues to boggle minds by going with them for extended stretches. It’s hard for a Spurs fan to accept that our defense keeps on getting abused this season. It just doesn’t feel right.

http://roleplaya.blogspot.com

by silverandblack_davis on Apr 26, 2009 9:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good points LasEspuelas
1. I think the Mavs helped less on Tony and so they were a lot closer on our shooters. A lot of our shots were contested.
2. Completely agree. George is an excellent on ball defender but gets lost a little on rotations. On offense someone suggested he just stand in the corner like Manu did his rookie year-I think that would be fitting when he plays along side Tony.
3. I’m bamboozled about our lack of defensive effort.
4. I saw the bottle toss but haven’t heard anything about it afterwards.

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 9:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would say it was more of a flip. He was drinking and had just closed the bottle and flipped it to his right (away from the court).

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh is that right? Were you at the game???

...formerly known as speedostuffer

by Manuwar on Apr 26, 2009 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No, they showed it in a replay right after the call.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The moment when I understood why Pop was hesitant to play Hill at all during the playoffs I believe happened at the end of the first half. There were a few seconds left in the clock and the Mavs were inbounding from their own side of the court. Hill was in the middle of the court undecided if he was going to try to cover the in-bound pass player or help double someone closer to our rim. Suddenly you see Duncan’s huge arms in the air calling on Hill to come over and help defend a possible hail mary. He definitely needs to participate on more in game situations like that one. I wonder if during practice they have “scenario” training? Probably not during the playoffs and for the benefit of a rookie.

"If an expert says it can't be done, get another expert"
- DBG

by LasEspuelas on Apr 27, 2009 8:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

saw that too — you can definitely say that he NEEDS to be out there getting his playoffs chops

but I can see Pop’s original point as well, in that the postseason isn’t the time for a player to be figuring where he’s supposed to be before an inbounds play; you’d prefer his to know already and be thinking about which play the Mavs are running

but it seems we don’t have that luxury this year

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, I have been looking at the Spurs possible future moves and it ain’t looking good. If there was a season to tank and take a shot at the #1 or #2 pick, this was the year. It was a horrifying mistake not shelve the season in my opinion. Especially considering the Lakers have this year locked up and pre-ordained by the commish.

The biggest need we have is a 7 foot shot blocking defensive minded center. Unfortunately, the 7 foot center tree bears fruit only once every half decade. Thabeet would have been nice. I would have settled for Griffin as well even though he isn’t a true 7 footer.

I believe we have no first round draft pick due to the Crazy Eyes trade, so no hope there.

I am breaking down the next few years Spurs road to recovery, but it looks like dog shit. I see a Golden State Warrior approach where Tony Parker, an aging Duncan and hobbling Manu lead us to a nice regular season, maybe a first round playoff series win, then getting creamed again. We play small ball with a cast of 3 point shooting odd balls like Bonner and Danny Ferry types. The Spurs become the first team in NBA history to go through the season without a single slam dunk made.

I will deliver a full report once my player analysis has been completed. I have the 1999 and 2005 rosters out. I am piece by piece looking at the type of players that made our defense so great and the team function so well during the playoffs.

I can tell you this recipe from the start though. If we are serious about competing for a championship or rebuilding the Spurs, this is what you have do..

1. Build the team to beat your worst enemy (the Lakers). Find a counter for Gasol and Kobe. They don’t have to be all stars, but they have to be able to get under these guys skin and throw them off their game.

2. Start collecting 7 foot centers who can clog the middle and shot block. We need two of them.

3. Bring in one or two bad asses like Ron Artest, Dennis Rodman, Mario Elie, Robert Horry.

4. Don’ t play midgets. Big dudes like Ron Harper and Mario Elie win championships.

5. Don’t play ass clowns. Guys like Matt Bonner, Joe Wolf, Tom Tolbert, Paul Mokeski, Randy Brewer, those guys say..“We are a traveling circus”. Maybe have one as token 12th man or hack artist, but that is about it. Having Bonner as the starting center might have topped Don Nelson’s old Manut Bol three point shooting gimmick.

6. You need high energy offensive rebounders and dudes that wreck havoc in the post, like Poe, Big Baby, Malik Rose, Rick Fox, Horace Grant, etc…

7. Get a coach that doesn’t use gimicks like Midgets, ass clowns, goons, gang members and the sort. See the Clippers, Trailblazers and Knicks if you want a diagram on how to screw a franchise for a decade.

I am discouraged from my first look at the future. After watching some old Tim Duncan mixes on youtube, I realize how much his knees are gone now. Timmeh used to throw down on everyone. Manu is a rolling medical clinic. Tony P is in his prime, but can’t carry the load himself. Surrounding him with some talent would prolong the dynasty. However, if serious action isn’t taken, a complete breakdown could be on the horizon. Once Duncan leaves, we become the Washington Wizards of this season. Then there is Pop, but that is a page long discussion at another time.

I will be back soon to break this whole thing down.

by Clintons Cigar on Apr 26, 2009 9:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ok, the Randy Breuer reference with Mokeski is brilliant. I saw those two guys together in an airport once. There was no mistaking the 7’ Mokeski and his lack of chin or the 7’5" Breuer. (I think this is how he spelled his name. Maybe I’m confusing him with somebody else.)

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 26, 2009 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Does the JV also get to join the traveling circus?

http://roleplaya.blogspot.com

by silverandblack_davis on Apr 26, 2009 10:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I may catch some flack for this...

but I really miss seeing Horry play. Other than the “biting incident” and “knock Nash on his a$$ incident”. Isn’t he known for being a clutch shooter that CAN make 3’s or a dunk with the clock winding down?? Or am I missing something??

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!! (Founding Member)

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He wouldn’t have disappeared in the playoffs like Bonner has. Or Roger for that matter.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He disappeared from last playoffs. Well maybe not disappeared, but did not move either.

"If an expert says it can't be done, get another expert"
- DBG

by LasEspuelas on Apr 27, 2009 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He’s also known for doing shizats for whole seasons. And he didn’t do much in the last playoff run, either.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He didn’t seem to have a problem playing rough when the situation called for it. We need some of that in this series…

Just my 2 cents….

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 11:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, there was no one better than Horry to fill that enforcerer role. I agree he wouldn’t have give us very much this season, but I would have taken him as our 15th player for the playoffs. I think he would be kicking some ass right now… especially within the team locker room.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 27, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The problem is that Pop wouldn’t be able to resist playing him if he were on the roster and sitting on the bench in uniform.

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

by tomasito on Apr 27, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Must have read your comment wrong or something.. How is that a problem?

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

because he was a drain on both the offense and defense in last year’s playoffs, and it was generally (around here) considered a good thing when he didn’t come back this year, because of the deterioration of his skills due to age

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think the problem he was referring to is that he sucked the last two years.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 27, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can see where you may not want him to play a lot of minutes but at the same time what would be the harm in letting him finish off a game? Couldn’t be any worse than how the last few games went….

That was mainly my point… He was great at the last minute clutch shot, and I’m sure he could still get it done. We also need a great defender and that’s another thing that Horry was known for.. he could match whatever aggressiveness that other players threw out.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

We do need a great defender. That would be the ‘05 Horry, not the ’08 Horry. Last year’s Horry was not even a good defender.

So, if we are talking about getting the ‘05 or earlier Horry, yeah, I’m all for it and we definitely need somebody like that. But, I don’t think last year’s Horry wouldn’t help us.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 27, 2009 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, I would agree with you there.

Please keep in mind that while you guys (and gals) are writing, I’m learning. If I ask any dumb or obvious questions.. it is because I really don’t know. (or maybe I just have not taken my meds.. haha)

Guess I just hate seeing one of great big guys fade away like that.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks for pounding my ~~somewhat delusional~~ hopes into the dirt!!

: : sob : :

BTW.. My mom STILL refers to him as “Mr. Tall, Dark, and Handsome”

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

no worries, AC, you’re fine here

ATS, fading away is what we should call it. So in last year’s L.A. series, we were playing a faded RoHo, how about that?

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm, I might call the ’07 Horry faded. I think of the ’08 Horry as being decomposed.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 27, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You’re too kind.

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 27, 2009 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s cool. ATS told us that his wife thinks Reggie Miller is sexy. They fight about this. He’s not a fan of “Mr. Delicious”

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed.

by CMoney on Apr 27, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry guys. Had a momentary lapse of emotion there. I’ll get back to being my cynical self again soon…

Blame it on the rain

It’s ok, ATS… My 10 y/o daughter thinks TP is the cat’s meow, and something about that bothers me….

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Somehow, TP owing his existance to the act of a cat meowing makes a strange kind of sense to me.

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s because in your house if a cat meows you end up with another kid. ZING!!!

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 27, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s bad form to zing yourself.

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

by tomasito on Apr 27, 2009 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, but it was fun.

We specialize in misinformation around here. Facts and stats just get in the way.

by Wayne Vore (ATS) on Apr 27, 2009 9:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

that’s not all that’s fun

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

One thing you’re forgetting was that he was a deceptively good defender. It seemed like he made 4-5 timely defensive plays a game during the playoffs. My favorite was his patented inbound steal. The camera would turn away after a Spurs basket and next thing you know it would suddenly be on Horry making a wide open three. It always amazed me how often he was able to pull that off.

by Neuwaldegg on Apr 27, 2009 7:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

loved that

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They have some really great clips of him playing on Youtube. A few are with teams that shall not be named, but a lot were for the Spurs.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 27, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

2. Start collecting 7 foot centers who can clog the middle and shot block. We need two of them.

Ian and Tiago? Maybe it’s just wishful thinking, but still seems like it could work.

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 26, 2009 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I will be back soon to break this whole thing down.

You mean the Spurs?

Straight from the No-Stat Zone to your computer!
Dunkin' Cheerleaders

by LatinD on Apr 26, 2009 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can’t tank season. Especially when Tim Duncan is on your team.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed.

by CMoney on Apr 26, 2009 11:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And the untradeable Tony Parker and the untradeable Manu Ginobili.

It is what it is.
We are who we are.

by SinCitySpur on Apr 26, 2009 11:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was told that we had (or have) an open slot. Is this true??

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 10:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As for the comment above....

I know that may seem like a dumb question to some of you, but please keep in mind that I am still learning quite a bit about the game. I have been a Spur’s fan for years but just recently took an interest in rules and regs and how the game actually works.

"I had the right to remain silent.... I did not have the ability." - Ron White
Jail Matt Bonner!!!

by Absolutely Cynical on Apr 26, 2009 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey at least you guys are in the playoffs.

You guys have owned us for the past three years in the playoffs.

by suns_all_the_way on Apr 27, 2009 6:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Where is Cheap Shot?

You need Cheap Shot and Bowen to beat up on Dallas like they used to do to the Suns. I doubt if the Spurs can win a game when the refs actually start calling fouls.

You should bring Cheap Shot back so he can that Dirk out.

by TheTruthSquad on Apr 27, 2009 10:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Suns fans are so bitter

Still complaining about the refs? Seriously… still?

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed.

by CMoney on Apr 27, 2009 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hahhahahahaha. At least our situation isn’t near the desperation that the suns are feeling.

by One4theThumb on Apr 27, 2009 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s going to be horrid having a long summer, but at least it’s not as long as some others. Sorry Suns.

Superman wears Manu Ginobili pajamas to bed. - CMoney
Free George Hill! (member #3)

by bellasa on Apr 27, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

summers in Phoenix aren’t exactly a nice time of year, either. At least I don’t root for the Suns!

Free George Hill! (member #2)

by Tim C. on Apr 27, 2009 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TheTruthSquad, it's been too long!

Did you and suns_all_the_way have a conversation about coming over to troll at PtR with each other? That’s so cute.

Do you guys hold hands when you walk to the restroom together too?

You’re better off trying to intimidate the sea. - LatinD
Free George Hill! (member #4)

by jollyrogerwilco on Apr 27, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Suns are history

Everyone knew the Suns were history when Steve Kerr was hired as General Manager. This ex-Spur tried to play Spur ball without Tim Duncan. Then he fired the best coach in the NBA and hired a retread from Detroit, who was glad to get rid of him. I think Kerr wanted to do the Spurs a favor and make their job easier. However, it appears you have now joined the same sh1thouse we find ourselves in. Welcome to mediocre basketball.

But, congratulations on making it to the playoffs. That is better than we did.

by TheTruthSquad on Apr 28, 2009 10:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs