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.
The Spurs reach .500 again; Spurs-Grizzlies preview
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
The San Antonio Spurs have clawed their way back to a .500 record after a convincing victory against the Los Angeles Lakers. This win showcased the team’s potential and highlighted several key factors that could contribute to their continued success.
One of the most significant developments was the return to the original starting lineup that began the season. The unit of Stefan Castle, Champagne, Victor Wembanyama, Harrison Barnes, and Chris Paul proved effective once again. This lineup change seemed to spark the team, with each starter making valuable contributions.
Castle, in particular, stood out with his defensive prowess and offensive output. His performance raises questions about why he hasn’t been starting consistently. The statistics don’t lie – the Spurs are now 11-9 when Castle starts, indicating his positive impact on the team’s success.
The victory over the Lakers wasn’t just about individual performances; it was a testament to team basketball. Every starter shot 50% or better from the field, combining for an impressive 99 points. This balanced attack, coupled with strong defensive efforts, led to the Spurs outscoring the Lakers by more than 30 points in the second half.
Defensive Resurgence
A key factor in the Spurs’ success was their renewed focus on defense. Every starter recorded at least two steals, with Chris Paul leading the charge with four. This aggressive perimeter defense, anchored by Seth Curry’s pestering style, created turnovers and easy transition opportunities.
The team’s ability to capitalize on Lakers’ mistakes was crucial, scoring 25 points off turnovers. This opportunistic play helped the Spurs limit the Lakers to just 13 points in the fourth quarter, showcasing their defensive potential.
Looking ahead, the Spurs’ challenge will be to consistently maintain this level of play. While this victory was impressive, it’s important to recognize that it could be a one-off performance. The true test will be how the team responds in upcoming games, particularly against tough opponents like the Memphis Grizzlies.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Spurs’ recent performance and future outlook, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:
• Analysis of individual player performances against the Lakers
• Discussion on the impact of lineup changes and rotations
• Preview of the upcoming game against the Memphis Grizzlies
Have potential contenders figured out the Celtics?
Jan 12, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) fouls Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during the first half at TD Garden. | Paul Rutherford/Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
It’s always risky, doubting the Celtics. Not for Celtics fans, but for the rest of us. On Friday night, at home, Boston fans booed their team as they let the Kings take an uncontested rebound and take (then make) the same 3-point attempt. The Celtics lost, recording their 11th of the season. That’s only four games more than this time last year.
Going back, Boston recorded most of their losses last season in the winter stretch leading up to All-Star Weekend, the same stretch they’re in now. I would chalk a lot of those losses up to fatigue and deft competition who could sense the Celtics easing up on the gas, if briefly. The Nuggets, Bucks, Cavaliers and (then) white hot Pacers took advantage of those minor slumps. The losses now, though coming this season within the same stretch with the same fatigue taking a portion of the toll, have to do more with opponents figuring out how the Celtics tick.
This season, the Celtics are a known quality. Their brand of basketball last year overwhelmed the majority of their opponents, teams not built to withstand a barrage of incessant 3-point shooting backed by a quick and smothering defence without a moment to recalibrate or catch their breath. Most teams spent entire games, and all their energy, trying to chase Boston off the line. This season the Celtics have slipped to a 7th overall (from 3rd) defensive rating, and are currently 3rd overall (from 1st) in offence — teams have figured them out.
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
Analysis Michelle Beadle discusses the potential of Victor Wembanyama and other NBA big men, weighing their impact on the league and the San Antonio Spurs’ future success. (Pounding The Rock)
Preview The San Antonio Spurs face off against the Memphis Grizzlies, with a focus on Victor Wembanyama and Zach Edey’s contributions. The game promises a thrilling matchup between two dominant big men. (Pounding The Rock)
Roster After key rivals’ losses, the Spurs re-enter the play-in picture, highlighting their resilience and strategic roster decisions. (Sports Illustrated)
Analysis The San Antonio Spurs need more from Castle to solidify their contention status. The detailed analysis emphasizes the player’s potential impact. (Sports Illustrated)
Trade With trade restrictions lifted, the Spurs might explore opportunities involving players like Tyrese Maxey or OG Anunoby, as their availability could shift the balance of power. (Bleacher Report)
Rumor Speculation grows about the Spurs’ untouchable players ahead of the 2025 NBA trade deadline, with discussions on potential moves and strategic decisions.(Bleacher Report)
Trades Here’s the latest on the NBA trade deadline and rumblings around the league. (The Athletic)
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Spurs podcasts.
Visit with Dr. McCorkle: Medical side of the San Antonio Spurs & Rodeo Trip’s impact on the players
Can allergies sideline an NBA star? Discover how San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama’s battle with Central Texas allergens impacts him.
Dive into sports medicine as Dr. Ryan McCorkle shares insights on managing allergies, concussion protocols, and the physical toll of extended road trips on NBA players.
San Antonio Spurs’ GM Brian Wright: The architect of success
Does Brian Wright rank among the NBA’s best General Managers?
With General Manager Brian Wright at the helm, the San Antonio Spurs are making strategic moves to generate buzz among fans.
Play-In? Playoffs? The impact Fox will have on the San Antonio Spurs
Could this trade be the game-changer the San Antonio Spurs need to boost their playoff chances? With De’Aaron Fox joining forces with Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs are poised for a potential deep run in the Western Conference.
