The progression of Tigao Splitter

Post #1 » by **Nolan** » Sat Apr 2, 2011 7:08 pm

Coming into the season we all had pretty high expectations of Splitter. He was going to be the perfect compliment to Duncan and the piece that could push us over the top.

Well so far he hasn`t exactly lived up to those lofty expectations. But over the season he has gotten better and done a ton of work on his game. He`s added muscle to his frame, improved his free throw shooting and he just improved his all around play. And when he`s gotten minutes he`s produced. I still think he can be a difference maker for us in the future.

What to do you guys think about Tiago`s first season so far?

co_laper · Post #2 » by **co_laper** » Sun Apr 3, 2011 11:23 am

I expected this to happen. I liken his situation with Blair's first year where he was a situational player filling in for Duncan. The first year is basically just learning the system, the NBA, the players, and everything else.

Now, Blair last year showed us that he has a great future because the guy can play. Splitter is much the same way. Splitter is a legit NBA player and once he adds some more muscle, I think he can be a very good defender. I kinda wish he's a better shotblocker but if he turns out to be more like Varejao, i'm happy enough.

The thing is, I really hope we discover some new young star. Like when the big 3 in Boston got assembled, Rondo was slowly coming into his own as a star. I wish we have one like that who has that potential.

Right now, I can't imagine Splitter being a star. I don't think he'll ever become a first or second option on the team unless we suck. He's more of a role player in that regard. Same thing with Blair. George Hill is forever a combo guard IMO and has a future as a Jason Terry-like player.

If we want to be relevant in the future, we need someone to breakout. I'll be honest, I knew Splitter wasn't going to be much in his first season, but I was actually hoping that he showed more than Blair did his first season. And Blair did amazing that first season. I hoped that mainly because I was hoping Splitter will show us glimpses of a star player. Someone to build around. Right now, I see his future more as a Varejao. Solid starter, but hardly a star player.

Blame Rasho · Post #3 » by **Blame Rasho** » Sun Apr 3, 2011 7:31 pm

Nolan wrote:Coming into the season we all had pretty high expectations of Splitter. He was going to be the perfect compliment to Duncan and the piece that could push us over the top.

Well so far he hasn`t exactly lived up to those lofty expectations. But over the season he has gotten better and done a ton of work on his game. He`s added muscle to his frame, improved his free throw shooting and he just improved his all around play. And when he`s gotten minutes he`s produced. I still think he can be a difference maker for us in the future.

What to do you guys think about Tiago`s first season so far?

It usually takes two years for players to get the system. He tries too far the short time that he is on the floor. I think he is pretty damn good when it comes to hedging screen and defending the pick and roll. The thing is that he gets alot of those rookie fouls that dissapear once you are not a rookie.

I think he has great chemistry with Manu but it isn't often that they play off of each other. I want him to finish better around the basket. He is also kinda gimpy it seems.

I think he can be a starter worthy player within next year and be a regular part of the bigman rotation.

Mr.Raptorsingh · Post #4 » by **Mr.Raptorsingh** » Fri Apr 15, 2011 4:09 pm

Raps fan here.

Would the Spurs consider a Bargnani-for-Splitter swap, by any chance? Those two would be the principle players, but a cap filler like McDyess or Bonner would likely have to be included.

You might be saying that you already have a 4 who can spread the floor in Bonner, but perhaps, Popovich might be able to extract more out Bargnani's talent than the Raptors have.

Post #5 » by **Nolan** » Fri Apr 15, 2011 4:43 pm

^
I can't speak for everyone but I would have zero interest in Bargnani. We need the oposite of Bargnani, someone who block shots, rebound and provide some toughness at the center position.

Blame Rasho · Post #6 » by **Blame Rasho** » Fri Apr 15, 2011 11:37 pm

Nolan wrote:^
I can't speak for everyone but I would have zero interest in Bargnani. We need the oposite of Bargnani, someone who block shots, rebound and provide some toughness at the center position.

Barney is a nice player, but he isn't someone you would like as your 1st or 2nd option. On this team I don't even if he would be the 4th when the big 3 is in with Jefferson. The thing is that he is a 7 foot specialist...

co_laper · Post #7 » by **co_laper** » Sun Apr 17, 2011 2:11 pm

Bargnani could use a true Center like Splitter next to him. Especially if Splitter gets a little stronger.

silc1ziga · Post #8 » by **silc1ziga** » Thu Apr 28, 2011 7:36 am

Nolan wrote:^
I can't speak for everyone but I would have zero interest in Bargnani. We need the oposite of Bargnani, someone who block shots, rebound and provide some toughness at the center position.

So, would you trade Splitter to GSW for Udoh (defensive minded PF/C) and 11' pick?

Post #9 » by **Nolan** » Thu Apr 28, 2011 4:29 pm

^
I'd be all over that.