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.
Spotlight: San Antonio Spurs’ interim head coach Mitch Johnson
Nov 7, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs acting head coach Mitch Johnson gives directions in the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images|Daniel Dunn/Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Mitch Johnson: The Spurs’ Potential Future Head Coach
As the San Antonio Spurs navigate a transitional phase, all eyes are on Mitch Johnson, who has stepped in as interim head coach during Gregg Popovich’s absence. Johnson’s leadership has been a topic of discussion, especially as he guides the team to a balanced .500 record. His calm demeanor and ability to maintain the team’s rhythm have been noteworthy, suggesting that the Spurs might not miss a beat even without Popovich at the helm.
Johnson’s coaching style is characterized by his calm and collected nature, which has made press conferences more straightforward and less tense. This approach resonates well with the players, as evidenced by Chris Paul’s praise for Johnson’s motivational halftime talks. The players’ connection with Johnson is evident, and it could be a significant factor in his potential long-term role with the team.
The Coaching Tree and Player Development
Johnson’s seamless transition into the head coaching role can be attributed to his experience within the Spurs’ system. Having coached in Austin, he is well-versed in the team’s strategies and philosophies. This familiarity has allowed him to maintain the team’s momentum, even in Popovich’s absence. The Spurs’ coaching bench, which includes seasoned professionals like Brett Brown and Matt Nielsen, provides a robust support system for Johnson, allowing him to draw on their experience while making his own decisions.
One of Johnson’s notable achievements is his impact on player development. His time in Austin has equipped him with the skills to nurture young talent, as seen in the emergence of players like Stefan Castle. Johnson’s ability to integrate these players into the main roster and trust them with significant roles speaks volumes about his coaching acumen.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While Johnson’s tenure as interim head coach has been promising, it hasn’t been without challenges. The Spurs have faced criticism for blowing leads, a problem that predates Johnson’s leadership. However, it’s essential to recognize that this issue is more about the team’s rebuilding phase than Johnson’s coaching abilities.
The Spurs’ decision to appoint Johnson over more experienced candidates like Brett Brown indicates their confidence in his potential. Johnson’s even-keeled approach, combined with his willingness to credit players like Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes for their contributions, highlights his understanding of the importance of player-coach relationships.
Johnson’s role could become more permanent as the Spurs continue to evaluate their future. His ability to maintain the team’s performance and foster strong connections with the players makes him a viable candidate for the head coaching position if Popovich decides to step down.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Mitch Johnson’s impact on the Spurs, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:
- The impact of Devin Vassell’s return on the Spurs’ lineup
- Analysis of the Spurs’ recent games and performance trends
- Fan reactions to the team’s current strategies and player rotations
Traditionally, press defenses are a weapon of last resort in the NBA, fit only for highly specific scenarios or times of desperation. Professional basketball players simply are too good at passing and dribbling to be susceptible to large doses of full-court press — or so the thinking went. But the thinking, it is a-changin’.
Synergy’s database goes back to the 2008-2009 season, and before last year, only one team had used press on even 5% of their defensive possessions: the 2020-21 Charlotte Hornets.
Last year, however, we saw a notable rise in the press defense, thanks to two teams. The Portland Trail Blazers and Indiana Pacers both beat Charlotte’s mark. Portland led the league by pressing 7.2% of the time, yielding only .94 points per possession (well below their typical defensive rating of 1.04, although that’s not by any means an apples-to-apples comparison), and I predicted that this year, the Blazers — featuring heavy doses of ambulatory fly paper Toumani Camara — would crack 10%.
I had the right idea but the wrong team. Instead, the Pacers are currently pressing 11.9% of the time, followed closely by Brooklyn’s 11.5% (the Blazers come in third, with a still historically high 8.4%). In retrospect, Indiana’s surging interest in the press shouldn’t be a huge surprise — they picked up full-court on nearly a quarter of their possessions in last year’s playoffs. That’s insane!
They haven’t been quite that extreme this year, but look at this graph of every team’s percentage of defensive possessions in press defense:
Six teams in total are pressing more than 5% of the time. 22 of the league’s 30 teams are pressing more this year than last (with the caveat that we’re talking about a couple dozen possessions or fewer for many of these teams), and this is by far the most press we’ve seen since the data became available. Given the weaknesses we mentioned in the opening paragraph, why is the press gaining popularity?
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.
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Analysis
Sam Vecenie of the Athletic breaks down how this year’s rookies have started. I don’t agree with all of his picks, but he’s always thoughtful with his selections and insightful with his analysis. (The Athletic, subscription required)
Personnel
HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto goes behind the scenes with the Indiana Pacers’ coaching staff. Mostly, you get a better appreciation for how little coaches sleep! (HoopsHype)
Must Read
Jared Dubin investigates the rise in dunks over time for his newsletter “Last Night, In Basketball.” It’s a fun, breezy read! (Last Night, In Basketbal)
Biz
The San Antonio Spurs are accepting applications for nonprofit financial upgrades, offering support to community organizations in need of funding. (Pounding the Rock)
Legacy
No matter who leads the team, Gregg Popovich’s enduring impact on the Spurs remains significant, influencing the team’s culture and success. (Sports Illustrated)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Wednesday’s Notable Fantasy Basketball Performances
Nov 13, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) shoots the ball against Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) during the first half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images|Photo By Soobum Im/Soobum Im-Imagn Images
In the ever-evolving world of fantasy basketball, keeping an eye on emerging talents and consistent performers is key to maintaining a competitive edge. Let’s delve into the standout performances of three young guns, as well as the continued dominance of Giannis, and explore their potential impact on your fantasy lineup.
Donovan Clingan: A Rising Star?
Donovan Clingan’s recent performance has caught the attention of fantasy managers everywhere. With 31 minutes on the court, Clingan delivered an impressive stat line of 17 points, 12 rebounds, and a staggering eight blocks. His ability to dominate the paint and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Deandre Ayton’s injury status. While Clingan’s long-term role remains uncertain, his current form makes him a must-add in fantasy leagues, particularly for those in need of blocks and rebounds.
Jared McCain: Rookie on the Rise
Jared McCain has quickly become a hot topic in fantasy circles, thanks to his explosive performance in the absence of key players like Paul George and Joel Embiid. McCain’s 34-point game, complete with six three-pointers and 10 assists, showcases his potential as a high-usage player. While his current role is bolstered by injuries to teammates, McCain’s talent is undeniable. Fantasy managers should consider adding him to their rosters, but remain cautious about his long-term value once the team’s stars return.
Click the button below to see how Giannis continues to be a fantasy force, and why for Victor Wembanyama, the future is now.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Spurs podcasts.
Discussing Project Marvel + San Antonio Spurs-Jazz gameday preview
With the current Frost Bank Center lagging behind other NBA arenas, the San Antonio Spurs and the city are exploring a possible new arena to enhance their marketability and revitalize the downtown area.
Let’s take a look at San Antonio Spurs lineups
The San Antonio Spurs are experimenting with lineup combinations, and the results might surprise you. With Victor Wembanyama’s evolving role, the team is exploring whether focusing on inside play or perimeter shooting will maximize his potential.
Victor Wembanyama’s improved shooting; San Antonio Spurs-Thunder preview
Victor Wembanyama’s recent shooting improvements have caught the attention of NBA fans and analysts alike. With his field goal percentage jumping from 41% to 50% and his three-point accuracy soaring from 23% to 39%, the San Antonio Spurs’ rising star is redefining expectations.
