As we approach the halfway point of the NBA season, it’s time to closely examine the San Antonio Spurs’ progress. Despite still being in the midst of a rebuild, there are clear signs of improvement from last year’s 22-win season.
One of the most notable changes is the team’s mentality. The Spurs now believe they can compete and win games, starkly contrasting the previous season’s struggles. This newfound confidence was evident in their recent victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, where they imposed their will and outplayed LeBron James and Anthony Davis on their home court.
The addition of veteran presence has been a game-changer for the young Spurs squad. Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes have brought invaluable experience and leadership to the team. Their impact is felt both on and off the court, with Barnes even coaching Keldon Johnson on proper sportsmanship during games.
Defensively, the Spurs have shown significant improvement. Their rebounding numbers have increased by nearly two points per game, largely thanks to Victor Wembanyama’s presence. Blocks are also up, with the team averaging close to 7.6-8 per game compared to last season’s 6. Additionally, turnovers have decreased from 15 to 14 per game, showcasing better ball control and decision-making.
The team’s defensive rating has jumped into the league’s top half, currently sitting at 12th out of 30 teams with a 112.4 rating. This defensive prowess has become the Spurs’ calling card, keeping them competitive even during offensive slumps.
While the offense is still developing, ranking 18th in the league with a 112.5 offensive rating, the team’s overall competitiveness has increased dramatically. Gone are the days of 30-point blowouts that plagued the Spurs during the DeMar DeRozan era.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Spurs’ progress this season, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:
• Chris Paul’s impact on the team’s toughness
• The debate over whether the Spurs are a “soft” team
• Analyzing the OKC Thunder’s rebuild model and its applicability to the Spurs
