From possible friend to certain foe! Spurs sign veteran G Van Exel August 29, 2005 SAN ANTONIO (Ticker) - In some ways, Nick Van Exel is not the ideal San Antonio Spur. In other ways, the veteran guard is perfect for the defending NBA champions. Waived by the Portland Trail Blazers, Van Exel was signed Monday by the Spurs, who made their biggest offseason move to date. Terms were not disclosed. According to the San Antonio Express News, the Spurs had $2.5 million remaining of their mid-level exception to offer Van Exel, 33, one of the NBA's better clutch shooters who talked about retirement during last season. In 53 games with Portland, Van Exel averaged career lows of 11.1 points and 4.3 assists. However, he shot a career-high 39 percent (100-of-257) from 3-point range. That would fit well with the Spurs, who thrive on open 3-pointers generated by the post presence of superstar forward Tim Duncan and the double-teams he commands. The 6-1 Van Exel's ballhandling ability also would help in backing up point guard Tony Parker. Rookie point man Beno Udrih struggled and was benched for his inability to handle full-court pressure in the NBA Finals. "We are very happy to have Nick as a part of our team," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. "His leadership and skills will be assets at both ends of the floor." Van Exel, who has played just 92 games the last two seasons, has had run-ins with coaches and management at many of his NBA stops. The long-range shooter with the perpetual sneer clashed with Del Harris in Los Angeles and turned his contract situation into a distraction in Denver. The Spurs do not have a history of taking on troublesome players. However, there are few questions about Van Exel's ability. In 815 games with the Lakers, Denver, Dallas, Golden State and Portland, he has averaged 15.1 points and 6.9 assists. He also has made 1,473 3-pointers, fifth on the all-time list and first among active players. Since winning their third NBA title in June, the Spurs have been very quiet. They signed Argentine forward Fabricio Oberto and met with free agent guard Michael Finley, who likely will land elsewhere. Updated on Monday, Aug 29, 2005 6:57 pm EDT
