Where have the San Antonio Spurs not improved?

What improvements are needed for the rebuilding Spurs?

NBA: San Antonio Spurs at Houston Rockets

Nov 6, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Troy Taormina/Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

As we approach the halfway point of the NBA season, it’s time to examine the San Antonio Spurs’ rebuilding. While there have been positive developments, particularly with the addition of Victor Wembanyama, the team still needs to improve significantly in certain areas.

One of the most glaring issues is consistency. The Spurs have shown flashes of brilliance, like their dominant win against the Lakers in Los Angeles. However, they’ve also struggled to maintain that level of play, as evidenced by their recent loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. This inconsistency is a hallmark of a young team still finding its footing, but it’s an area that needs addressing as the rebuild progresses.

Another crucial aspect that requires attention is the team’s physicality. Too often, we’ve heard players and coaches lament that the Spurs were outmuscled or lacked the necessary grit. This issue has become so prevalent that opposing teams are using it as a defensive strategy, particularly against Wembanyama. The Spurs need to develop a more robust physical presence on the court to compete at the highest level.

Shooting remains a significant concern for the team. The Spurs’ three-point percentage hasn’t improved from last season, holding steady at 34%. In today’s NBA, where perimeter shooting is crucial, this lack of improvement is worrying. The team desperately needs to add consistent shooters to their roster, whether through trades, free agency, or player development.

The overall field goal percentage has actually dropped slightly from last season, from 46% to 45%. While this may seem like a small decrease, it’s indicative of a larger issue with the team’s shooting efficiency. The Spurs lack reliable shooters from all areas of the court, including mid-range specialists.

Perhaps the most pressing need for the Spurs is finding a second star to complement Wembanyama. While players like Zach Collins have shown promise, the team lacks a clear second option who can take over games when Wembanyama is struggling or facing intense defensive pressure. This roster construction issue will likely be a key focus for the front office moving forward.

For more insights and a deeper dive into the Spurs’ rebuild, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:

• Preview of tonight’s rematch between the Spurs and Grizzlies

• Discussion on Jeremy Sochan’s recent absence and its implications

• Analysis of the Spurs’ third-quarter struggles in recent games

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