I've heard both RC and Lindsey lump him in with Hairston, Temple, Gee and Jerrells recently, which has given me the impression that they've done a bit of a 180 on him; not wanting to inflate his value could definitely be part of the equation.
I actually heard Coach Brown the other night mention that they hadn't had a real chance to see Ian play before and now that they have seen him play a little, they can't help but be impressed with how he seems to produce when given the opportunity.
So, basically, I think they gave up and were ready to wash their hands of him, which had him buried on the bench. But when Pop decided to let him play because he felt they needed some enthusiasm and energy that night against the Nets, Ian opened some eyes and made them question their decision.
I'm sure they've been trying to figure out what the to do ever since but since they didn't pick up his option, it'd make sense for them to keep him under wraps (to some degree). I'm just not sure if they'll be able to afford him when it's all said and done; not that he's going to get a massive contract, just something that might be a little too rich for the Spurs and the role he would assume.
It's definitely one of the stranger happenings when it comes to the Spurs and one of their players.