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.
Where have the San Antonio Spurs improved?
Nov 7, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) dribbles against Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija (8) in the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images | Daniel Dunn/Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
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
Jan 4, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) greets Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) before a game at Frost Bank Center. | Scott Wachter/Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
I only get to write this column once per week, so while we’re still technically a game or two short of the halfway marker for most teams, I’m here with some second-quarter awards anyway!
These are honors for the second quarter and second quarter only; they aren’t predictive. Word count limitations mean I have no margin for a longer introduction. You get it.
Interior Defensive Player of the Quarter
Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs
When it comes to analyzing defense, it isn’t fair to lump wings and guards with bigs; it’s like comparing a sports car to a heavy-duty pickup truck when you can only buy one vehicle. Instead, I split Defensive Player of the Quarter into interior and perimeter editions.
My Interior Defensive Player of the Quarter won’t shock: it’s Victor Wembanyama. I could throw a bunch of advanced analytics at you to prove the case, but instead, I’d ask that you join me in prayer: Holy mother of basketballs, protect your children from the harm Wembanyama inflicts upon them.
Ok, fine, here’s one fun, if basic, number. In the season’s second quarter, Wemby had an outrageous 69 blocks. That’s 30 more than second-place Myles Turner, despite the fact that Turner played in three more games. Let’s not waste time here.
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
Watch San Antonio Spurs fans were treated to a thrilling moment when Chris Paul forced a jump ball against Victor Wembanyama. Watch the exciting play that had everyone on their feet. (Pounding the Rock)
Analysis Victor Wembanyama and Ja Morant faced off in a highly anticipated game. Expert analysis dives into the key plays and strategic moves that defined the matchup. (Pounding the Rock)
Milestone Stephon Castle achieved a career-high 26 points, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. Celebrate Castle’s achievement as he continues to make strides. (Sports Illustrated)
Stat Victor Wembanyama recorded an impressive 8 blocks in the first half, showcasing his defensive prowess. Check out the full stats from the game against the Grizzlies. (Sports Illustrated)
Trade
The San Antonio Spurs are exploring both dream and realistic targets for the 2025 trade deadline. Discover potential moves that could reshape the team. (Bleacher Report)
Watch
Victor Wembanyama was at the receiving end of an impressive dunk by Ja Morant. While it didn’t count, the play has become a viral sensation. Check out the play for a memorable highlight. (CBS Sports)
Nick Richards Traded to Phoenix Suns: Fantasy Basketball Impact and Analysis
Jan 12, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards (4) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas/Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Phoenix Suns have acquired center Nick Richards from the Charlotte Hornets in a trade that sent shockwaves through the NBA. While not a blockbuster deal, this move has significant implications for fantasy basketball managers.
In exchange for Richards, the Hornets received Josh Okogie and three second-round picks, while the Suns also got a second-round pick in return. At first glance, it might seem like the Suns got a steal, but let’s take a closer look at what this means for Richards’ fantasy value.
Richards has been averaging 21 minutes per game this season, putting up 9 points and 7.5 rebounds with 1.2 blocks. These numbers have him ranked 205th in category leagues, which is far from impressive. However, the change of scenery could potentially boost his value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Spurs podcasts.
Fan episode: How do fans grade the San Antonio Spurs at the mid-season?
The San Antonio Spurs are making waves in the NBA, with star players like Victor Wembanyama and Devin Vassell leading the charge.
But how do Spurs fans feel about the team at the mid-season point?
Emergency show: Reacting to the latest San Antonio Spurs-De’Aaron Fox rumor
On this emergency episode of Locked On Spurs, host Jeff Garcia welcomes Jack Thompson, formerly with San Antonio Spurs Star, and Spurs on Sports Illustrated’s Matt Guzman, to react to the latest rumor involving the San Antonio Spurs and Kings guard De’Aaron Fox.
San Antonio Spurs in Paris wrap up; Midseason grades: The guards
The San Antonio Spurs, led by rising star Victor Wembanyama, recently showcased their skills in Paris, leaving fans buzzing about their potential. With the NBA season at its midpoint, the Spurs’ performance, especially the contributions of their guards, is under the microscope.
