Josh Smith in a Spurs Uniform Looking Unlikely
As Thursday’s trade deadline approaches, it appears the San Antonio Spurs trade options are dwindling. The two possible trade rumors, talks 
with the Utah Jazz and the Atlanta Hawks, have appeared to reach an point of little to no progress happening.
According to Comcast NBA Analyst Ric Bucher, it seems Smith wearing the silver and black may not become a reality.
“The Jefferson rumor never had substance to it because it would've put San Antonio into a difficult salary-cap position. The Smith interest apparently died upon discovering that Josh simply didn't have the requisite Spurs' DNA.”
I am not sure what “having Spurs DNA” entails, but I view Smith in a similar manner as I view Stephen Jackson.
Both are players that have a wild and edgy side that when channeled can allow him to be a key cog in an extended playoff run.
The Spurs in the past have been able to take players that you don’t think the Spurs would go after (see Glen Robinson and Stephen Jackson) and have them fall in line with what the team expects of its players. The players who are able to check their ego at the door are able to enjoy a success while others who can’t don’t last long with the team.
In addition, Bucher says former Minnesota coach Sam Mitchell feels Smith would be a good fit with the Spurs and help his development.
"... playing for the Spurs would be a great benefit to Smith and I agree; he's never struck me as a malcontent or bad guy or purposely undisciplined. He might not have Spurs' DNA now, but I believe he wouldn't reject a transfusion and it would make the most of the raw talent he clearly has.”
The lack of an established and structured system, and a coach who had the authority to players in check allowed Smith to freelance on both the offensive and defensive end.
Smith has the athletic ability is something that is short supply currently with the Spurs. With the second team, Smith will be allowed to use his athletic ability on the offensive end, and protect the basket on the defensive end.
Coach Greg Popovich will allow Smith a little freedom but make sure he knows how things are done in San Antonio.
The Spurs have always played their hands close to the chest during the trade deadline. Not much news was made before the Richard Jefferson with the Milwaukee Bucks occurred. So rest assured, one thing is for sure is we will not know the true answer until the trade deadline has passed.
Funny. DNA?! The Spurs simply just don't have enough pieces that interested the Hawks. Other team's offer's just simply better than us. What DNA?! This kind of article is a joke!
If you want another foreigner because Nikola Vucevic (Orlando Magic). I think we can change by Blair. And it would be a great help.
@usa22 The problem with that is I've heard similar things about Hickson lacking "Spurs DNA" or whatever that is back in Sacramento and Cleveland. While I personally think the DNA thing is a bunch of hogwash, Hickson has underwhelmed me with his lack of solid play despite his skills.
A player can be difficult and have a high BBIQ, or cooperative and be a quick learner. Josh in neither. Athletic ability on a loosing team shows well. A disciplined team like SA needs guys who are able to pick up rotations, see the floor, no spacing, etc. Josh doesn't fail at trying, he just is slow on the "uptake". DNA is made up of a lot of these things. If we just need athletic ability, Pop has passed on similar guys for the past 5 yrs. Don't get caught up on the hyped abilities. If we need soemone to help protect the rim at 6'9", why not LaMychal Greene or Wilkerson. They at least can fit the system. I am not proposing signing them either.
I think Smith's game is similar to Jackson's. Smith is a willing smart passer and physical low post. Player
I honestly think what's killing a potential Smith deal is that Josh Smith is demanding a max contract. I'm not sure the Spurs would have wanted to spend that much, even if it was for Smith.
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@Emicris Spurs would need personal assurances from Smith about taking a pay-cut to stay in SA in order to resign Tiago, Manu, and him. I don't see that happening unless he has some untold admiration for Pop/Duncan/the Spurs. Oh well, the defensive dream was fun while it lasted...
@T_MONEY_TX he would be a great big and help on defensive end. Plus great with 2nd team as primary option on offense
@denver3334 you think Josh Smith wants to be a 2nd teamer? Has he ever been the first option on offense? His game is more like Odom
@T_MONEY_TX I think he's smart enough for the short time he would do it. The chance at ring me change his tune also
