David West Opting out

[Masterofreality]

Reports are tha DWest is opting out of his Pacers contract and will test Free Agency.

Probably not a fit for the Cavs, but don't go to the stinking Warriors!

[smileyy]

Not a fit for the Warriors.

[xukeith]

Love David West. He is experienced and "old" and recently made $20 million per year.

I don't think he will start for any top 10 NBA teams next year. Hope I am wrong.

[xu82]

So, he'll be 35 next season and is turning away from $12.6 million. Sounds like he will go play a solid role for a team that has a real chance to go far, but what do I know? Is life with the Pacers a grease fire? Hope he gets what he's looking for. You want that kind of guy on your team.

[JTG]

So, he'll be 35 next season and is turning away from $12.6 million. Sounds like he will go play a solid role for a team that has a real chance to go far, but what do I know? Is life with the Pacers a grease fire? Hope he gets what he's looking for. You want that kind of guy on your team.

Larry Bird wants the Pacers to run, and for all his great qualities D West is no longer capable of running. He needs a team that walks it up the court. Not sure who that will be. Indy will miss him, he has been a fan favorite and his wife has been very active in the community.

[XUFan09]

Love David West. He is experienced and "old" and recently made $20 million per year.

I don't think he will start for any top 10 NBA teams next year. Hope I am wrong.
If Paul George hadn't broken his leg, the Pacers would have easily been a top 10 team, even without Lance Stephenson and even with all the other injuries. It's about fit: It has to be a team with a need at PF but one that isn't really fast-paced.

[xu82]

Larry Bird wants the Pacers to run, and for all his great qualities D West is no longer capable of running. He needs a team that walks it up the court. Not sure who that will be. Indy will miss him, he has been a fan favorite and his wife has been very active in the community.

I don't doubt that that's the case. Still, the guy in me who does NOT have $12.6 million finds walking away from it for an unknown market difficult. But I'm sure they know what they're doing and, hey, it's not his only $12.6 million.

[Xville]

The guy is 35 and has made plenty...I'm guessing and hoping he isn't the kind of person that is going to be broke 5 years after he is done like many pro players are. So my guess is that he wants to go to a contender...Paul George or not, the Pacers aren't. My guess is he ends up in cleveland, Chicago, San Antonio or another team thats really close and most likely as a backup. I would think any of those teams would take him based on his leadership qualities alone.

[xu82]

The guy is 35 and has made plenty...I'm guessing and hoping he isn't the kind of person that is going to be broke 5 years after he is done like many pro players are. So my guess is that he wants to go to a contender...Paul George or not, the Pacers aren't. My guess is he ends up in cleveland, Chicago, San Antonio or another team thats really close and most likely as a backup. I would think any of those teams would take him based on his leadership qualities alone.

My thoughts exactly and I hope it's true - get the man a ring!

[Drew]

My guesses: Memphis or Atlanta.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Surprised to hear he is opting out. Was it definitely him who opted out or did the team not pick up his option? I imagine he would be making decent money at the end of his deal that was probably signed years ago. Cant imagine he will make more with a new deal at this age, but again I dont know what the numbers were. Love D-West, hope he goes to a team with a chance to win, and if not then hope he goes to the Knicks!

[Woodburn]

Surprised to hear he is opting out. Was it definitely him who opted out or did the team not pick up his option? I imagine he would be making decent money at the end of his deal that was probably signed years ago. Cant imagine he will make more with a new deal at this age, but again I dont know what the numbers were. Love D-West, hope he goes to a team with a chance to win, and if not then hope he goes to the Knicks!

It was his option. He declined to exercise it. Pacers aren't exactly all broken up about it with an effort to retool the roster this summer but it is completely accepted in Indy that David was the bedrock of the team. West and Hibbert would both be gone after next year anyway. As mentioned - they want to run.

He won't make more money at this age. This is classic DFW - not strictly about money. Unlike most, he literally puts his money where his mouth is.

[Milhouse]

I wouldn't rule Charlotte out either if he wants to return home.

[GoMuskies]

If he's thinking Charlotte, he should just go ahead and retire. DC is almost as close to home as Charlotte. Maybe the Bullets would be interested?

[mistabeecee41]

My guess would be the Clippers. They have no frontcourt depth behind Blake/DeAndre. Can play 20 minutes off of the bench, content for a title and reunite with CP3.

[THRILLHOUSE]

My guess would be the Clippers. They have no frontcourt depth behind Blake/DeAndre. Can play 20 minutes off of the bench, content for a title and reunite with CP3.

Yeah I was thinking this too. CP3 wanted West to come to LA last time he was a free agent.

[JTG]

My guess would be the Clippers. They have no frontcourt depth behind Blake/DeAndre. Can play 20 minutes off of the bench, content for a title and reunite with CP3.

The Clippers will never play for a title with Blake (all flash no substance) Griffin @ center, and Doc Rivers as coach.

[GoMuskies]

Why can't Doc get them a title? He won a title in Boston.

[BandAid]

Why can't Doc get them a title? He won a title in Boston.

Because he's also serving as GM, and he's made some questionable personnel choices as GM.

Just one opinion (http://deadspin.com/doc-rivers-cant-be-serious-1705196802)

[Juice]

The Clippers will never play for a title with Blake (all flash no substance) Griffin @ center, and Doc Rivers as coach.

Well no because he doesn't play center...

[SemajParlor]

Looks like he's going to the Knicks.

[GoMuskies]

Looks like he's going to the Knicks.

Seriously?!? I assumed he was going somewhere to try and win a title. Obviously not if this is really the case.

[Xville]

Looks like he's going to the Knicks.

Where did you see that?

Seriously? I wonder if he still has family up there and just wants to go home? Definitely not a good basketball decision, so if this is truly the case, must be much more than that.

[drudy23]

Do the Knicks have any room for a max free agent? Wouldn't be horrible with Carmelo, West, Porzingus, and potentially someone like Aldridge....but that's a big what if. Probably another disaster in the making in NYC.

[SemajParlor]

Still speculation :

https://twitter.com/JaredZwerling/status/614214932855431169

[SemajParlor]

Do the Knicks have any room for a max free agent? Wouldn't be horrible with Carmelo, West, Porzingus, and potentially someone like Aldridge....but that's a big what if. Probably another disaster in the making in NYC.

Yes, they have room if they wanted to

[Woodburn]

Do the Knicks have any room for a max free agent? Wouldn't be horrible with Carmelo, West, Porzingus, and potentially someone like Aldridge....but that's a big what if. Probably another disaster in the making in NYC.
Plus Porzingus needs is a project that will take more than next year to develop. Word in Indy has always been that West has maybe 1-2 years left before he wants to retire.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Looks like he's going to the Knicks.

STFU!? I would LOVE THAT!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yes, they have room if they wanted to

Yeah they have tons of room. Need to save up for a run at a couple of the BIG FAs next year though. How's D-West's defense been lately? The Knicks need a solid low post defender bad.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Plus Porzingus needs is a project that will take more than next year to develop. Word in Indy has always been that West has maybe 1-2 years left before he wants to retire.

Yes he is, but he needs to play a decent amount of minutes for his development. The Knicks better be patient with him and allow him those minutes and let him play through mistakes. Him rotting on the bench would be worst case scenario, but it would also be completely Knicks-like so that is probably what will happen.

[Masterofreality]

At, this point, it's all about getting paid apparently for DFW.

Near the end of the line, so cash in one more big chip, then maybe sign a minimum deal (Ala Mike Miller) to hopefully scarf onto a ring.

[XU 87]

At, this point, it's all about getting paid apparently for DFW.

Near the end of the line, so cash in one more big chip, then maybe sign a minimum deal (Ala Mike Miller) to hopefully scarf onto a ring.

I don't know about the payment part. I read an article, probably posted here, that said he was being overpaid. If the article was accurate, that would suggest by opting out he's willing to play for less.

Maybe he's more looking for a ring. I hear the Cavs might need a power forward.

[D-West & PO-Z]

At, this point, it's all about getting paid apparently for DFW.

Near the end of the line, so cash in one more big chip, then maybe sign a minimum deal (Ala Mike Miller) to hopefully scarf onto a ring.


I don't know about the payment part. I read an article, probably posted here, that said he was being overpaid. If the article was accurate, that would suggest by opting out he's willing to play for less.

Maybe he's more looking for a ring. I hear the Cavs might need a power forward.

Yeah I dont think it has to do with money at all, that is why I was so surprised to hear he opted out and thought it was maybe a team option. He wont make near as much next year as he would have. And the Knicks wouldnt spend a lot on him at all so if he goes there it isnt about money. Also if he goes to the Knicks it isnt about rings either. I would think it would be all about location for D-West if he goes to NY.

[Masterofreality]

I don't know about the payment part. I read an article, probably posted here, that said he was being overpaid. If the article was accurate, that would suggest by opting out he's willing to play for less.

Maybe he's more looking for a ring. I hear the Cavs might need a power forward.

Nah, not the Cavs. They still have Varejao under contract and Tristan Thompson will be going nowhere else. Kevin Love will re-sign too, despite his opting out. Cavs are loaded at forward.

All these guys opting out is about money. The salary cap is going up and there is more $ available for salaries. I cannot believe that DWest would opt out from the Paces to go to.......The Knicks? That really makes no sense unless they are going to pay him. If his agent advised him to opt out, it had to be for money...or he had indications that someone like Houston, Golden State, OKC, Memphis, the Clippers or maybe even Atlanta- contenders- wanted his services. That would be for the ring.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Nah, not the Cavs. They still have Varejao under contract and Tristan Thompson will be going nowhere else. Kevin Love will re-sign too, despite his opting out. Cavs are loaded at forward.

All these guys opting out is about money. The salary cap is going up and there is more $ available for salaries. I cannot believe that DWest would opt out from the Paces to go to.......The Knicks? That really makes no sense unless they are going to pay him. If his agent advised him to opt out, it had to be for money...or he had indications that someone like Houston, Golden State, OKC, Memphis, the Clippers or maybe even Atlanta- contenders- wanted his services. That would be for the ring.

The Knicks won't pay him anywhere near what he would have been paid by the Pacers next year. I can't see anyone who would or any situation in which him opting out results in him getting more money. Him opting out wasn't about money.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Nah, not the Cavs. They still have Varejao under contract and Tristan Thompson will be going nowhere else. Kevin Love will re-sign too, despite his opting out. Cavs are loaded at forward.

All these guys opting out is about money. The salary cap is going up and there is more $ available for salaries. I cannot believe that DWest would opt out from the Paces to go to.......The Knicks? That really makes no sense unless they are going to pay him. If his agent advised him to opt out, it had to be for money...or he had indications that someone like Houston, Golden State, OKC, Memphis, the Clippers or maybe even Atlanta- contenders- wanted his services. That would be for the ring.

Salary cap rise or not, I can't imagine anyone paying West close to the 12 million he was going to get with Indy. Of course, the Knicks are idiots, so maybe, but I don't see it. (I don't really buy the Knicks rumor at all. He'll go to a contender, I'll stick with my Clippers prediction)

[94GRAD]

The Knicks won't pay him anywhere near what he would have been paid by the Pacers next year. I can't see anyone who would or any situation in which him opting out results in him getting more money. Him opting out wasn't about money.


Salary cap rise or not, I can't imagine anyone paying West close to the 12 million he was going to get with Indy. Of course, the Knicks are idiots, so maybe, but I don't see it. (I don't really buy the Knicks rumor at all. He'll go to a contender, I'll stick with my Clippers prediction)

No one is going to pay him 12mil next year, but I bet get he gets a 2/3 year contract for 20-25 mil total. He's playing the long game

[XU 87]

I retract my statement that he wants to win a ring.

http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/06/27/report-david-west-very-likely-to-sign-with-knicks-in-free-agency/

[Backyard Champ]

Yeah, the Knicks is a real head scratcher. Disappointing as a fan, but if it's what he wants, than great for him.

[D-West & PO-Z]

No one is going to pay him 12mil next year, but I bet get he gets a 2/3 year contract for 20-25 mil total. He's playing the long game

No way. I've been seeing 3 years for a total of 9million.

[GoMuskies]

No way. I've been seeing 3 years for a total of 9million.

If that's the case, this is one if the more bizarre decisions of all time.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If that's the case, this is one if the more bizarre decisions of all time.

I saw that one place. That could be off. The hugest per season total I've seen is 8 mil per year which over a 2-3 year deal would make sense why he opted out but I don't think if he goes to the Knicks he'd get that much. They are trying to keep enough space open for a max deal next year too.

[THRILLHOUSE]

if someone does offer him 8 mil a year for 2 - 3 years, then it makes sense why he opted out. long term that would be more money than if he stayed in Indy. I'd still stay the hell away from the Knicks at this time.

[SemajParlor]

Who know's, maybe he was a Knicks fan growing up? I know the Knicks are a joke of team, but living in NY and playing at the worlds most famous arena 41 games a year might be appealing.

[Muskie]

Who know's, maybe he was a Knicks fan growing up? I know the Knicks are a joke of team, but living in NY and playing at the worlds most famous arena 41 games a year might be appealing.

True. I'll miss him being on the Pacers. He's one of the few reasons I pay attention to NBA at all.

[mistabeecee41]

They have a LONG way to go - but they do have some money to play around with. Jerian Grant was a steal and will be an immediate PG upgrade for them. Along with DWest, Greg Monroe and DeAndre Jordan are also Knicks targets.

Despite the fact that they have no pure 2 guard or depth, I feel like a Melo/D-West/DeAndre Jordan frontcourt would have them at least contending for an 8 seed.

[D-West & PO-Z]

They have a LONG way to go - but they do have some money to play around with. Jerian Grant was a steal and will be an immediate PG upgrade for them. Along with DWest, Greg Monroe and DeAndre Jordan are also Knicks targets.

Despite the fact that they have no pure 2 guard or depth, I feel like a Melo/D-West/DeAndre Jordan frontcourt would have them at least contending for an 8 seed.

What a dream that frontcourt would be, in the East that would have them better than an 8 seed.

Jose Calderon will still start at PG and I am hoping for a bounce back year from him, he had an injury plagued year last year.

[SemajParlor]

And then there's this: West claiming that the rumors to NYK are absolutely ridiculous. Wants to be on contender. Good for David.

Gotta love the twitter age.

[paulxu]

"West left due to Bird, lack of contending

David West, who opted out of the last year of his deal with Indiana, just wants to win. "I'm just not sure the Pacers are in title contention right now," he said, calling the way president Larry Bird threw Roy Hibbert under the bus at the end of the season the last straw: "That did rub me the wrong way. That threw me off."

(from ESPN)

[Xville]

"West left due to Bird, lack of contending

David West, who opted out of the last year of his deal with Indiana, just wants to win. "I'm just not sure the Pacers are in title contention right now," he said, calling the way president Larry Bird threw Roy Hibbert under the bus at the end of the season the last straw: "That did rub me the wrong way. That threw me off."

(from ESPN)

It's funny two of the best players to have ever played the sport (Jordan and Bird), are pretty bad at running teams. I know Bird has had a little bit of success obviously way more than Jordan, but still not the best front office man either.

[Woodburn]

Full story for those interested:
http://www.wthr.com/story/29457742/kravitz-west-opted-out-because-he-didnt-think-he-could-win-a-title-in-indiana

[Juice]

It's funny two of the best players to have ever played the sport (Jordan and Bird), are pretty bad at running teams. I know Bird has had a little bit of success obviously way more than Jordan, but still not the best front office man either.

I think Bird has done ok considering that Indianapolis is the most mayonnaise city in the United States. He's definitely effed some things up but has also put together some pretty damn good teams. He just can't get them to that next level which is hard to do in Indy.

[RealDeal]

Full story for those interested:
http://www.wthr.com/story/29457742/kravitz-west-opted-out-because-he-didnt-think-he-could-win-a-title-in-indiana

DFW is a guy you want in your foxhole.

[LA Muskie]

I would be thrilled. THRILLED. If he became a Clipper. We know Doc loves him...

[Juice]

I would be thrilled. THRILLED. If he became a Clipper. We know Doc loves him...

I'd hate it. They're a team full of pussies.

[DC Muskie]

I'd hate it. They're a team full of pussies.

Im pretty sure he'd tell Chris and Blake to stop making gay commercials and win something.

[Moe82]

I'd hate it. They're a team full of pussies.

That is the exact reason he should be a Clipper.

[Juice]

Im pretty sure he'd tell Chris and Blake to stop making gay commercials and win something.

I have zero respect for Chris Paul. He whines constantly and punches opponents in the junk. He's the worst.

[Olsingledigit]

That Damn Bird - if he hadn't caused Paul George to break his leg, who knows what might have happened.

There are both supporters and detractors here in Indy for Bird. I happen to be a supporter. His predecessor, Donnie Walsh, is supposed to be a genius but other than drafting Reggie Miller he didn't have a stellar career at Indy and did nothing for the Knicks.

The biggest problem the Pacers have had, IMO, is either being in the playoffs or just outside of them. In other words they have never been bad enough to get a really high pick. Even though a draft might be "deep" like they say this year was, the odds of getting someone after the first few picks who ends up truly being a star and for many years are not very good.

[xukeith]

I believe after West's NO playing time, all he wanted was to be on a team to win.
He tried it with Indiana, but with Paul George injured and LeBron James in the East, odds are not looking good for Indiana.

Now try to pick the best championship contender. That is very difficult. Cleveland in the East or 3-4 teams in the West. Only one team will win it all. Its a gamble West is trying to make. He has maybe 2 more productive years in him. A power forward takes a grind and beating.

Brian Grant tried the same thing when he left Portland to join Alonzo Mourning and Miami Heat then Mouning's career was crushed after an injury and Grant was playing center. He tried Phoenix with lots of talent but that failed.
Lots of luck!

[D-West & PO-Z]

That Damn Bird - if he hadn't caused Paul George to break his leg, who knows what might have happened.

There are both supporters and detractors here in Indy for Bird. I happen to be a supporter. His predecessor, Donnie Walsh, is supposed to be a genius but other than drafting Reggie Miller he didn't have a stellar career at Indy and did nothing for the Knicks.



This is NOT true.

[Backyard Champ]

At, this point, it's all about getting paid apparently for DFW.



Great call MOR. West came out and said that was a bogus report. Looking like he wants to play for a contender. I've seen Warriors and Spurs being tossed around.

[sirthought]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Clippers or Rockets in his future.

[Olsingledigit]

This is NOT true.

He brought Melo in a trade and drafted Stoudemire. Melo is a selfish brat who will never win a title and Amare resides in Dallas. I stand by my statement

[drudy23]

Looks like DC or San Antonio...both solid destinations for him at this point.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Looks like DC or San Antonio...both solid destinations for him at this point.

yeah. Better chance of winning a title with the Spurs. But he would likely get more playing time with the Wiz.

[D-West & PO-Z]

He brought Melo in a trade and drafted Stoudemire. Melo is a selfish brat who will never win a title and Amare resides in Dallas. I stand by my statement

This just shows how much you have no idea what you are talking about. Bring in Melo and Amare (who was a free agent, not a draft pick) aren't even close to the best things Donnie Walsh did for the Knicks.

[XUFan09]

This just shows how much you have no idea what you are talking about. Bring in Melo and Amare (who was a free agent, not a draft pick) aren't even close to the best things Donnie Walsh did for the Knicks.
And even that netted them a 2 seed one year, and a team that could hold their own against the Heat.

[GoMuskies]

Walsh is no Scott Laden. As a Jazz fan....you're welcome for that!

[drudy23]

yeah. Better chance of winning a title with the Spurs. But he would likely get more playing time with the Wiz.

Honestly, I don't think he would care about the playing time. My guess is that he would look forward to the way Pop plays his vets and how he tries to keep them fresh all year. My guess is that's a major selling point for vets that can still be solid contributors.

[xu82]

Honestly, I don't think he would care about the playing time. My guess is that he would look forward to the way Pop plays his vets and how he tries to keep them fresh all year. My guess is that's a major selling point for vets that can still be solid contributors.

That's a point well made. He's going to be 35 next season. I doubt he'd be happy playing 40+ minutes. Give him a role, he'll do his job well, and hopefully get a ring or two for his efforts. .

[Lloyd Braun]

Aldridge should go to SA. Which means DFW should end up in Washington, with the Chris Pauls as a dark horse option. He has some bad history with Blake Griffin but more positive history with Chris Paul. Let the dominoes fall. Hope he gets a shot at a ring.

[LA Muskie]

The Clippers are screwed. No cap space. They needed to re-sign DJ because of his Bird rights. Now their best shot at any "redemption" is a sign-and-trade with Dallas or a multi-team trade. But any way you cut it, they will be much worse with no way to improve this off-season. HUGE miscalculation on their part. (And I think a genuinely bad decision on DJ's part.)

[Lloyd Braun]

The Clippers are screwed. No cap space. They needed to re-sign DJ because of his Bird rights. Now their best shot at any "redemption" is a sign-and-trade with Dallas or a multi-team trade. But any way you cut it, they will be much worse with no way to improve this off-season. HUGE miscalculation on their part. (And I think a genuinely bad decision on DJ's part.)

I thought they had the MLE?

Edit: they only have league minimum left as of now. Forgot about PP.

[THRILLHOUSE]

After locking up Aldridge, Spurs are now targeting West:

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA 2m2 minutes ago
Spurs are aggressively pursuing free agent David West with a veteran minimum offer now, sources tell Yahoo Sports.

[drudy23]

Aldridge should go to SA. Which means DFW should end up in Washington, .

I don't think it means that at all. DWest is 35...he's not competing with Aldridge. West would still be a hell of a pickup for the Spurs and one of those savvy vets who would fit in well with SA. He knows at this point in his career he's a role player. Think Boris Diaw with a better jumper and bigger muscles...perfect fit for him.

The only issue is if he's willing to take a DRASTIC paycut (I think the vet minimum is like $1.5-2 million). Would you play for the minimum for the chance to win a ring?

[xu82]

After locking up Aldridge, Spurs are now targeting West:

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA 2m2 minutes ago
Spurs are aggressively pursuing free agent David West with a veteran minimum offer now, sources tell Yahoo Sports.

So what's the vet minimum now? Glad the $12.5 million he walked away from isn't his only $12.5 million. Hope he get$ what he can and a couple rings to boot.

[THRILLHOUSE]

and now Cleveland is going for West:

"@ESPNSteinLine
ESPN sources say that Cleveland has aggressively entered the bidding for David West, so Spurs have to beat out both Cavs AND Wizards for him"

[waggy]

West in Cleveland is about the only way I could root for them.

[Lloyd Braun]

I don't think it means that at all. DWest is 35...he's not competing with Aldridge. West would still be a hell of a pickup for the Spurs and one of those savvy vets who would fit in well with SA. He knows at this point in his career he's a role player. Think Boris Diaw with a better jumper and bigger muscles...perfect fit for him.

The only issue is if he's willing to take a DRASTIC paycut (I think the vet minimum is like $1.5-2 million). Would you play for the minimum for the chance to win a ring?

He's nothing like Diaw except in height. They drafted Kyle Anderson to be Diaw of the future. I didn't think West would play for the vet minimum but that apparently isn't true from these reports.

[Lloyd Braun]

I'm a big cavs fan and would love to see him come to clevetown but it's a logjam in the front court. He'd get more run in SA and WASH.

Edit: until they all get hurt by January 1.

[waggy]

If vet minimum is $2M I wouldn't call the Spurs offer "aggressive". :rolleyes:

[Lloyd Braun]

@WojYahooNBA: Sources: Cleveland hasn't only worked itself into contention for David West, Cavs took slight lead on Spurs. Pop isn't done recruiting yet.

@WojYahooNBA: David West has strong ties to Ohio --- from family connections to his days as national player of the year at Xavier.


Nice plug

[D-West & PO-Z]

After locking up Aldridge, Spurs are now targeting West:

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA 2m2 minutes ago
Spurs are aggressively pursuing free agent David West with a veteran minimum offer now, sources tell Yahoo Sports.

Wow he really wanted to win if he takes that. Good for him. Hed be leaving tons of money on the table. He probably will be no matter what team he signs with. For Dwest it's not about the money this offseason.

[BandAid]

If it's all about winning the choice has to be Cleveland right? There pretty much a shoo-in to make it to the Finals

[D-West & PO-Z]

If it's all about winning the choice has to be Cleveland right? There pretty much a shoo-in to make it to the Finals

If I were him I'd go Spurs. Yeah the west is tougher but SA looks to be better than the Cavs with their additions and he would probably make more of a contribution.

[paulxu]

West and Love on the floor at the same time means Lebron gets to be the 2 guard. What fun.

[xu82]

The Cavs probably win THIS year with Kyrie and Love. Add D. West and get a couple rings.

[Cheesehead]

I am all in with the Cavs if the D West signs

[kyxu]

If I were him I'd go Spurs. Yeah the west is tougher but SA looks to be better than the Cavs with their additions and he would probably make more of a contribution.

Not sure how much it really matters now, but I recall the Spurs being West's favorite team while at Xavier.

[XURunner85]

I am hoping my Bulls make an offer to him.

[bobbiemcgee]

NBA TV sez West to Spurs.

[Xavier]

Yep, good for him. That team will be loaded....Talk about taking a cut to win. Reports are 1.4 Million. I know he doesn't need the money but man, 12million to 1.4. That's a lot to leave on table.

[GoMuskies]

Good. It will be a lot easier for me to cheer for him in SA than it would have been if he had gone to Cleveland.

[NY44]

They are unreal. They've been lauded enough, but I can't help myself:

David Robinson 1989-2003
Tim Duncan 1997- Present
Lamarcus Aldridge 2015-

This will be a 30+ year dynasty when it's all said and done.

[drudy23]

Damn...solid. Alot of weapons plus alot of guys with high basketball IQ. Western conference should be real fun again, especially with Durant coming back.

Cavs will still roll to Finals.

[bobbiemcgee]

Ginobli sez he's coming back too.

[xukeith]

This is a very shocking surprise. The NBA tweet world is so amazed that he gave away 12.5 million for the veteran minimum of 1.5 million to play for an old team that finished 6th in a very talented West.
I wonder if Cleveland wanted more talent.. I wish him luck.

[drudy23]

This is a very shocking surprise. The NBA tweet world is so amazed that he gave away 12.5 million for the veteran minimum of 1.5 million to play for an old team that finished 6th in a very talented West.
I wonder if Cleveland wanted more talent.. I wish him luck.

LOL...they were one game from the 2 seed.

[Xavier]

They are unreal. They've been lauded enough, but I can't help myself:

David Robinson 1989-2003
Tim Duncan 1997- Present
Lamarcus Aldridge 2015-

This will be a 30+ year dynasty when it's all said and done.

Huh? Can you be considered a "Dynasty" starting in 89 with no titles until 99? Just because you have a great player doesn't mean you are a dynasty...The dynasty started in 99. It will be interesting to see if it continues past the Duncan years.

I could be understanding you wrong- You could be saying it started in 99 and with Aldridge there it could go to 2029? It has been a hell of a ride no matter how you look at it, though.

[Xavier]

LOL...they were one game from the 2 seed.

He is likely just trolling- everyone knows the Spurs are a real contender. I think if West wanted a ring his best chance could have been through Cavs because they will roll to the finals. Despite being the favorites, it wont be easy for Spurs to get there coming out of the West

[Xville]

The guy is 35 and has made plenty...I'm guessing and hoping he isn't the kind of person that is going to be broke 5 years after he is done like many pro players are. So my guess is that he wants to go to a contender...Paul George or not, the Pacers aren't. My guess is he ends up in cleveland, Chicago, San Antonio or another team thats really close and most likely as a backup. I would think any of those teams would take him based on his leadership qualities alone.

I'm a genius. Just kidding. Glad to see that he is joining the Spurs. As tough as the west is, the only real competition for them now is golden state in that conference I believe, and that might even be a stretch.

[THRILLHOUSE]

I'm a genius. Just kidding. Glad to see that he is joining the Spurs. As tough as the west is, the only real competition for them now is golden state in that conference I believe, and that might even be a stretch.

OKC if KD and Westbrook stay healthy will be a tough out as well.

[Masterofreality]

Taking $1.4 million to play for the Spurs makes more sense than taking any amount of money to play for the Knicks.

[throwbackmuskie]

I have loved the Spurs since Robinson came into the league. This is just another reason to love them!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[xukeith]

He is likely just trolling- everyone knows the Spurs are a real contender. I think if West wanted a ring his best chance could have been through Cavs because they will roll to the finals. Despite being the favorites, it wont be easy for Spurs to get there coming out of the West

Totally agree.
West will be difficult with those good teams

[Muskie]

Great Article in the Indystar with quotes from Chris Mack (Link (http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2015/07/06/doyel-david-west-gives-one-final-lesson-road/29793425/))

[DC Muskie]

Hey man his life, his way.

Congrats.

[Muskie]

Greg Doyel has been fabulous for the Indy Star so far.

[xu82]

I think this is awesome! I guess Ray Allen can eat some crow...

http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22748484/33970627

[XU Cowbell Kid]

Great Article in the Indystar with quotes from Chris Mack (Link (http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2015/07/06/doyel-david-west-gives-one-final-lesson-road/29793425/))

This is the first article I've read where it says West was fed up with other players. Everything else I've seen, he has been critical of the team management, but super supportive of the players. I also don't think he would try to avoid being a leader on a team, but that is just my opinion.

[SemajParlor]

LOL...they were one game from the 2 seed.

And returned everyone while adding Alan Anderson and Lamarcus Aldridge... Oh and Kawhi Leonard is a top 5 player in the NBA.

There are literally no holes on the Spurs roster. Their second unit of Patty Mills, Manu, Anderson, West, and Diaw are more formidable and better constructed than some starting 5's.

[SemajParlor]

This is the first article I've read where it says West was fed up with other players. Everything else I've seen, he has been critical of the team management, but super supportive of the players. I also don't think he would try to avoid being a leader on a team, but that is just my opinion.

Something was clearly wrong with the Pacers lockerroom the last few years.

Between this : http://sports.yahoo.com/news/pacers-fight-each-other-on-eve-of-playoffs--finally-take-swing-at-hawks-in-game-2-062419341.html;_ylt=A0LEV1RtUZtVzRcAwQJXNyoA;_ylu= X3oDMTEyMmVqN2ZvBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMyBHZ0aWQDQjAzNj JfMQRzZWMDc3I-

Roy Hibbert shrinking like he was legitimately getting bullied, the Paul George rumors, Stephenson being well Stephenson. Did not seem like a fun place to be.

[Juice]

Something was clearly wrong with the Pacers lockerroom the last few years.

Between this : http://sports.yahoo.com/news/pacers-fight-each-other-on-eve-of-playoffs--finally-take-swing-at-hawks-in-game-2-062419341.html;_ylt=A0LEV1RtUZtVzRcAwQJXNyoA;_ylu= X3oDMTEyMmVqN2ZvBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMyBHZ0aWQDQjAzNj JfMQRzZWMDc3I-

Roy Hibbert shrinking like he was legitimately getting bullied, the Paul George rumors, Stephenson being well Stephenson. Did not seem like a fun place to be.

Yeah, banging a teammates fiancé/wife doesn't help team morale.

[NY44]

Huh? Can you be considered a "Dynasty" starting in 89 with no titles until 99? Just because you have a great player doesn't mean you are a dynasty...The dynasty started in 99. It will be interesting to see if it continues past the Duncan years.

I could be understanding you wrong- You could be saying it started in 99 and with Aldridge there it could go to 2029? It has been a hell of a ride no matter how you look at it, though.

Eh dynasty was too strong of a word for the reasons you mentioned. I don't see any reason why Aldridge wouldn't finish his career there though, especially in the Spurs system.

[Lloyd Braun]

Aldridge is a nice player. Real good. But let's not get carried away, he is not a top ten player in the league and maybe not top 15. He is at his peak now which is a plus for the Spurs. I like to use Bosh as the measuring stick for who is a good PF. In my opinion peak Bosh>LMA.

[chico]

When a person says it's not about the money, it is about the money. Unless that person is David Freaking West.

[Xville]

Aldridge is a nice player. Real good. But let's not get carried away, he is not a top ten player in the league and maybe not top 15. He is at his peak now which is a plus for the Spurs. I like to use Bosh as the measuring stick for who is a good PF. In my opinion peak Bosh>LMA.

I don't agree with you but it doesn't matter. The spurs replaced Thiago splitter, a decent player, with lamarcus Aldridge a guy who averaged 23 points and 10 boards last season. He is one of the best front court players in the game, going to a team who was already really freaking good.

[Emp]

When a person says it's not about the money, it is about the money. Unless that person is David Freaking West.

One of the great pleasures of following Xavier has been following West. The guy has grown up before our eyes. His long range vision on his career, from taking a prep year, to waiting another year to go pro, all markers of a stand up guy who thinks hard about important decisions.

For most of us taking a $10M haircut for an opportunity for the chance to win a prize in what is, after all, a game, would be crazy. But I have great confidence that West has handled his money wisely, giving him the freedom to chase his dream.

Will West stAy with the game when his playing days are over, coaching, managing,agent? Just a great combination of passion and clear thinking.

[DC Muskie]

I can't believe he's 35.

[xu82]

I don't watch much NBA. (At all.) With West playing for the Spurs I'd make a point of catching some games. I don't think there's another team he could join that would make me feel that way.

[Backyard Champ]

Aldridge is a nice player. Real good. But let's not get carried away, he is not a top ten player in the league and maybe not top 15. He is at his peak now which is a plus for the Spurs. I like to use Bosh as the measuring stick for who is a good PF. In my opinion peak Bosh>LMA.

I do think Bosh was a better player than Aldridge, but Aldridge is still pretty damn good. I think Bosh was a little underrated though..m

I think you're right. He's probably 10-15 range certainly a top 20 player.

[Lloyd Braun]

I don't agree with you but it doesn't matter. The spurs replaced Thiago splitter, a decent player, with lamarcus Aldridge a guy who averaged 23 points and 10 boards last season. He is one of the best front court players in the game, going to a team who was already really freaking good.

I'll go a step further. He's not exactly a great fit on the Spurs flowing offense. Sure he's an upgrade over Splitter (not a great feat), and yes they got better. I just think it is being way overhyped. Also Bosh is a HOFer. Like it or not, fair or unfair. They sacrificed a lot of depth.

[SemajParlor]

I'll go a step further. He's not exactly a great fit on the Spurs flowing offense. Sure he's an upgrade over Splitter (not a great feat), and yes they got better. I just think it is being way overhyped. Also Bosh is a HOFer. Like it or not, fair or unfair. They sacrificed a lot of depth.

I disagree, he's actually a perfect fit for the Spurs offense. He's a smart player, a very good passer, and a knock down jump shooter. The Spurs will be much much harder to defend.

[SixFig]

When can I buy my David West Spurs jersey

[Xavier]

I'll go a step further. He's not exactly a great fit on the Spurs flowing offense. Sure he's an upgrade over Splitter (not a great feat), and yes they got better. I just think it is being way overhyped. Also Bosh is a HOFer. Like it or not, fair or unfair. They sacrificed a lot of depth.

Huh? Sacrificed depth? I can see you thinking guard play may be a little sacrificed, no doubt. If Parker stays healthy then the guard play is just fine (big if) they got a lot better down low adding LA and West, though. I think both were top 5 FG% for the mid range jumper, both are very good passers. To me that's perfect fit for Spurs?

[SC in DC]

This is why DWest can take the pay cut---he doesn't live like the typical UC educated (oxymoron?) NBAer.

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2013/1/14/3876466/kenyon-martin-house-photos-sale

[Juice]

This is why DWest can take the pay cut---he doesn't live like the typical UC educated (oxymoron?) NBAer.

http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2013/1/14/3876466/kenyon-martin-house-photos-sale

Kenyon Martin also made $113 million over his career, which ya know...is more than $88 million by a lot.

[Lloyd Braun]

Huh? Sacrificed depth? I can see you thinking guard play may be a little sacrificed, no doubt. If Parker stays healthy then the guard play is just fine (big if) they got a lot better down low adding LA and West, though. I think both were top 5 FG% for the mid range jumper, both are very good passers. To me that's perfect fit for Spurs?

Look I like LMA, and I think he will fit but not as well as it is being hyped. The depth took a hit for sure. DWest is an obvious upgrade in the bench, but they lost a bunch of guys that contributed a lot in the regular season. Assuming Mills comes back they lost Baynes, Joseph, Bellinelli on top of Splitter. And if you think LMA will play center, what was the reason he didn't meet with the Knicks (aside from the obvious)? It's because they wanted him at Center.

The Spurs will be just fine but I don't believe the transition is seamless. A Kawhi-Aldridge pick and roll is going to be real fun to watch. Spacing might be an issue though until the well-oiled machine kicks in, and they are not a young team.

[SC in DC]

Juice--I was taking a little shot at UC for fun. I know KM can afford it, and I'm jealous! Also if DW had stayed, I guess he would have made 100m career wise and if he hung on for one more yr he could have made about $105. No such a big diff--but not sure how that matters when we are talking lifestyle choices.

[paulxu]

Reflecting on DFW, found this nice article from last year's Indy paper.
At the risk of vast oversimplification, I think part of West's stability comes from having a 2 parent home, and caring older brother.

http://www.indystar.com/story/sports/nba/pacers/2014/04/05/pacers-david-west/7347095/

[MuskieCinci]

I think too much is being made of this 'center' position. IMO the new NBA seems to be transitioning into positionless basketball where guys are either guards, wings, or bigs. Timmy will basically always guard the other team's largest guy, and when West is in the game he'll probably do the same. West doesn't have the footspeed of Aldridge anyways, and how many bigs these days can really punish a team?

The two biggest threats to the Spurs next season are probably the two teams from this year's finals. The Spurs will play lineups with Aldridge as their sole big man anyways when they matchup with Golden State, when Draymond Green was often their only big. The Spurs' and Cavs' bigs match up really well actually, while the Spurs may have the best player on earth when it comes to guarding LeBron James.

James reaction to Kawhi checking into the game: https://usatftw.files.wordpress.com/2013/06/lebronkawhi.gif

[Lloyd Braun]

I think too much is being made of this 'center' position. IMO the new NBA seems to be transitioning into positionless basketball where guys are either guards, wings, or bigs

Tell that to the majority of the NBA who would kill (or emoji-war) for Deandre Jordan, Marc Gasol, Dwight Howard, Tyson Chandler, Brook Lopez, Timo Mozgov, Demarcus Cousins, etc. Look how much $ these guys are getting. $20 mil + for a guy who you can't play in the 4th quarter because he can't make a FT!

I get your point about positionless basketball but in order to do that you need an extremely versatile big/wing- Lebron, Draymond, Diaw, etc., which are very rare. Going small ball also requires 3 pt shooting. Danny Green can't play 48 minutes. Aldridge may be asked to shoot more 3s because of this. Should be interesting.

[MuskieCinci]

Tell that to the majority of the NBA who would kill (or emoji-war) for Deandre Jordan, Marc Gasol, Dwight Howard, Tyson Chandler, Brook Lopez, Timo Mozgov, Demarcus Cousins, etc. Look how much $ these guys are getting. $20 mil + for a guy who you can't play in the 4th quarter because he can't make a FT!

I get your point about positionless basketball but in order to do that you need an extremely versatile big/wing- Lebron, Draymond, Diaw, etc., which are very rare. Going small ball also requires 3 pt shooting. Danny Green can't play 48 minutes. Aldridge may be asked to shoot more 3s because of this. Should be interesting.

I think the main thing that teams are valuing out of the guys that you just listed is as a rim protector. But if you started a non traditional line up against most of those guys they can't hurt you when you're playing defense. Obviously a couple still can, like Gasol and Boogie, but that two way ability is what makes them two of the best 10 - 15 players in the league. The other guys are getting insane money right now because teams have cap space and everyone knows as the cap goes up the money won't look insane at all.

I think the Spurs will find enough three point shooting. Like you said about Aldridge, I bet he is shooting at least a couple a game next season at a respectable clip. And the Spurs are like the Cardinals or Steelers. They will probably pick up some scrub another team cut or have a second round pick from Yugoslavia that we've never even heard of that would be terrible in any other organization but is going to be killing it with the Spurs second unit. At least with the Spurs I can actually enjoy it instead of cursing the gods.

[Lloyd Braun]

This may not be the most appropriate thread but since we are discussing centers... I can't stop laughing at all this DeAndre drama. It's hilarious. Cuban trying like mad to get ahold of DeAndre after the kidnapping... Blake's tweet... It's too much!

[MuskieCinci]

This may not be the most appropriate thread but since we are discussing centers... I can't stop laughing at all this DeAndre drama. It's hilarious. Cuban trying like mad to get ahold of DeAndre after the kidnapping... Blake's tweet... It's too much!

Following the twitter last night was so ridiculous. Has any other $80+ million dollar decision been handled so childishly? Good thing the Clippers already have a rep as one of the most hated teams across the league, so things shouldn't change too much for them.

[SemajParlor]

Spacing might be an issue though until the well-oiled machine kicks in, and they are not a young team.

Spurs. Spacing. Issue. Brain does not compute.

[Muskied]

Spurs. Spacing. Issue. Brain does not compute.

I actually agree, they are running out of space.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6n7KpJ8BWa8/URnKU3L5OnI/AAAAAAAAAw8/TjmSMxCfHBc/s1600/Spurs+02.JPG

[LutherRackleyRulez]

Is D West a good fit in SA????



http://www.poundingtherock.com/2015/8/29/9216949/david-west-is-more-a-luxury-than-a-need






http://www.poundingtherock.com/2015/9/8/9267233/another-david-west-fit-aldridge-diaw-duncan-part-2

[Lloyd Braun]

So the article references concern over the Spurs spacing? Interesting....

[Indigo Wolf]

The Spurs frontcourt is STACKED. With Duncan, Aldridge, West and Leonard. That is one bad team. I'd be surprised if they don't come out of the west.

[Juice]

Nice article on why West opted out (summary: the Pacers' locker room was a friggin mess and the Spurs' isn't): https://sports.yahoo.com/news/why-david-west-gave-back--11-million-to-join-the-spurs-195800859.html

[paulxu]

I wonder if he might end up coaching some day.

[paulxu]

More on West.

http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/nba/spurs/2015/10/13/david-west-spurs/73865012/

Interesting quote. Still at it.


I was saying, ‘Well, it’s not about money at this point, it’s about finding … a good basketball environment where I might learn