Jeff Garcia here, the host of the daily Locked On Spurs podcast, with your daily Locked On Spurs newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Spurs and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
More minutes for Spurs’ Mamu?
Apr 9, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Sandro Mamukelashvili (54) dribbles as Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (15) defends during the second half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports|Petre Thomas/Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
As a dedicated San Antonio Spurs fan, I’ve been closely following the team’s performance this season, and one question keeps popping up: Should Sandro Mamukelashvili, affectionately known as Mamu, get more playing time? With the Spurs off to a rocky start, it’s time to consider if Mamu’s energy and hustle could be the spark the team needs.
Mamu has consistently brought a vibrant energy to the court, reminiscent of Jeremy Sochan’s dynamic presence. Every time he steps onto the floor, he injects a burst of enthusiasm and instant offense that can uplift the entire team. Despite being near the bottom of the depth chart, Mamu has proven he can make a significant impact when given the opportunity. His ability to hit shots and find his spots on the court makes him a valuable asset.
In games where Mamu has received more minutes, he’s delivered. He’s already scored in double figures twice this season, both times when he played double-digit minutes. This suggests that increasing his playing time could lead to more consistent contributions. The challenge lies in finding a way to integrate him into the rotation, especially with players like Zach Collins and Devin Vassell sidelined due to injuries.
The Case for More Minutes
With Sochan and Vassell out and Collins’ performance somewhat erratic, fans are growing increasingly eager to see more of Mamu. The Spurs desperately need his ability to spread the floor and shoot from beyond the arc. Interim head coach Mitch Johnson has emphasized the importance of spacing, and Mamu’s shooting ability could be the key to achieving that.
Mamu’s per 48-minute stats are intriguing, showing his potential to be a significant contributor from the three-point line. While he may not be a high-volume shooter, the Spurs can capitalize on his efficiency from beyond the arc. Moreover, his toughness and ability to mesh well with Victor Wembanyama make him an ideal candidate for more minutes.
Wembanyama, who has had a somewhat subdued start to the season, could benefit from having a player like Mamu on the floor. Their chemistry was evident last season, and it could be the boost Wemby needs to find his rhythm. Mamu’s presence could help alleviate some of the pressure on Wembanyama, allowing him to focus on his game.
Balancing the Rotation
While it’s clear that Mamu deserves more minutes, it’s important not to overextend him. Giving him starter minutes might not be the best approach, but increasing his role in the rotation could be beneficial. Aiming for around 11 to 15 minutes per game seems reasonable, allowing him to make an impact without overwhelming him.
The Spurs are in a position where they have little to lose by experimenting with their lineup. With key players out and the team struggling, injecting some fresh energy into the rotation could be just what they need. Mamu has shown he’s ready for the challenge, and it’s time to allow him to shine.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Spurs’ lineup decisions, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:
- Fan comments and reactions to the Spurs’ current performance
- The impact of Jeremy Sochan’s absence on the team’s defense
- A look at the latest Spurs merchandise and where to find it
The Nuggets did it (Nikola Jokic did it), the Warriors did it (the death lineup and defensive efficiency), the Celtics did it (switching one through five, pre-switching, neutralizing open lanes), and now the Thunder are doing it.
It’s been described as pestering, smothering, swarming, but I‘d like to put “car wash” into consideration. That’s the set up awaiting opponents. The car (the opposing team) gets locked into those self-driving tracks and the gauntlet begins. Lu Dort and Alex Caruso appear as those cylindrical spinning brushes, stripping the ball outright and early or else funnelling players into the next wave of guards. Pressure continues from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jaylen Williams but it becomes more targeted, thinking of the jet streams of water now being directed at the car from every angle — and those spinning whirlwinds of Caruso and Dort haven’t relented.
If, somehow, an opposing player finds a sliver of daylight in the so-small-its-micro-ball switching scheme the Thunder are playing, if they manage to get out from the many hands reaching in, pressuring, forcing turnovers, then they will meet Chet Holmgren at the rim. Holmgren is like those long, slapping shammy tentacles that come down on the hood, sides and roof of the car from every angle, though his reach and hands are much more expertly deployed. The Thunder have a defensive rating of 96.5 (for context the Warriors, at second best, seem light-years behind with a respectable 103.8) and lead the league in steals (13.4) and blocks (7.3). The cars are coming out spotless, utterly worked.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Replay The Spurs recover from consecutive losses with a win over the Trail Blazers, demonstrating resilience and strategic improvements on court. (Pounding the Rock)
Analysis The Spurs are considered the best landing spot for a $215 million superstar from the Hawks, which could significantly bolster their competitiveness. (Sporting News)
Watch Defense wins games? Here’s an insightful breakdown of OKC’s defensive schemes. (Thinking Basketball)
Must Read The Influence of Sedona Price: Take a fascinating look at the domino effect of NIL on college athletics, women’s sports, social media and athlete health. (The New Yorker)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Basketball Impact of Miles Bridges’ Injury
Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) holds his knee after a collision at the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Spectrum Center.|Photo by Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
With only three games on Thursday, there was ample time to delve into the latest injury news and its implications for fantasy managers.
Injury Updates and Their Impact
Miles Bridges’ knee injury is a significant concern. After initially returning to play, he’s now sidelined for at least two weeks with a knee bone bruise. This situation opens up opportunities for other players. With Nick Richards and Mark Williams also out, Taj Gibson steps in as the starting centre. Grant Williams, who has been getting centre minutes, will likely shift to playing more at the four, alongside Tidjane Salaun. This reshuffling could push Williams into a more prominent role, making him a potential pick-up in 12-team leagues.
The absence of Bridges also means increased usage for Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. Tre Mann is another player to watch; holding onto him could be beneficial as the team adjusts to these injuries.
Ja Morant’s hamstring injury is another blow, with expectations of a two-week absence. Memphis’ injury reporting is notoriously vague, so fantasy managers should prepare for an extended period without Morant. Tyrese Maxey’s situation is similar, with the Sixers indicating a reevaluation in a week, but realistically, it could be longer. Kyle Lowry is a suitable replacement in the meantime.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Spurs podcasts.
San Antonio Spurs vs. Rockets: What went wrong in 127-100 loss?
The San Antonio Spurs are grappling with a significant setback. Jeremy Sohan is sidelined indefinitely due to a broken left thumb. This injury impacts both their defensive and offensive strategies. The Spurs recently suffered a tough 127-100 defeat against the Houston Rockets, highlighting struggles without key players like Sohan, Devin Vassell, and Trey Jones.
San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama: Facing the basket or not?
The San Antonio Spurs are navigating a challenging period as head coach Gregg Popovich deals with a severe health issue, and this episode updates you on the latest.
This episode explores Popovich’s influence on Victor Wembanyama’s playing style, debating whether facing the basket is the best approach for the towering star.
San Antonio Spurs’ collapse: Spurs squander a 26-point lead to Clippers
Gregg Popovich’s indefinite absence due to a health issue leaves the San Antonio Spurs in a precarious position, with Mitch Johnson stepping in as interim head coach.
The episode explores the Spurs’ recent collapse against the Clippers, where they squandered a 26-point lead, highlighting poor three-point shooting and defensive struggles.
