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.
Silver linings in the San Antonio Spurs’ recent slump
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
The San Antonio Spurs may be amid a losing streak, but there are still reasons for optimism. As we navigate through this challenging period, it’s essential to focus on the positives that have emerged in recent games.
One bright spot has been the team’s strong starts. In the last three games, the Spurs have shown competitive spirit right out of the gate. Their offensive rating in the first quarter ranks eighth in the NBA at 117.1, while their defensive rating sits at an impressive seventh place with 100. This translates to a net rating of 17.1 in the opening period, demonstrating that the team is capable of hanging with tough opponents early on.
Defensively, the Spurs have maintained their strength through the first half of games. Even as the offense dips in the second quarter, the team’s defensive rating remains solid, ranking eighth in the NBA at 110.5. This consistency on the defensive end suggests that the Spurs are developing an identity centered around their ability to get stops.
Another positive aspect has been the team’s commitment to ball movement. The Spurs continue to excel in facilitating, ranking in the top 10 for assists per game with 28.5. Against the Miami Heat, they dished out 28 assists, extending their all-time record of games with at least 20 assists to an impressive 182 straight contests. This dedication to sharing the ball and getting everyone involved improves the team’s offensive development.
Individual performances have also provided reasons for optimism. Stephon Castle has been a standout, impressing with his recent play despite the team’s struggles. In the last few games, Castle has consistently scored 20 or more points, showcasing his ability to take what the defense gives him and contribute significantly to the offense.
Devin Vassell has also found his rhythm, stringing together a streak of four consecutive games with 20 or more points. His improved scoring output and growing comfort on the court are encouraging signs for a player who has battled injuries in the past.
While the current losing streak is undoubtedly frustrating, it’s important to remember that these challenges are part of the growth process for a young team. As Spurs legend Manu Ginobili pointed out, going through these struggles is necessary for the team’s development. The lessons learned during this challenging stretch will prove invaluable as the Spurs continue to build towards future success.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Spurs’ recent performances, tune into the Locked On Spurs podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Spurs Podcast:
• Stephon Castle’s invitation to the NBA All-Star Dunk Contest
• Report on Gregg Popovich’s potential return to coaching this season
• Update on the Austin Spurs’ recent G League performance
A midseason report for seasons to come: part three
Jan 9, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) shoots against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena. | Rick Osentoski/Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
I’m far from being an insider (mostly I like sleep too much, and those guys never do), but there’s information you glean just from being proximal to the game. There are trends in questions and answers from coaches and players, plus recurring conversations with fellow media, team staff, scouts and agents. When alongside the pulse of NBA basketball, you pick up its reverberations.
One big, undeniable beat I’ve picked up on this season is the growing awareness that vey soon we’re going to start losing perennial stars. I say “we” and not only the league because the realization really does feel collective. Case in point, when the topic of the Warriors dynasty drawing to a slow, potentially quiet close comes up, it’s never solely in relation to the team.
The decline of Golden State is always held alongside the state of the league as a whole, either what it means for competition or in broader strokes, how the mechanics of the game itself will change without a dominant Steph Curry. And that detail is never explicitly mentioned. Even the most primetime of pundits have a reticence to predict when we’ll see the last of Curry, as if giving it consideration is a kind of jinx.
The counter to that is LeBron James, who cannot be discussed enough in relation to his retirement, but that endless guessing feels safe because James has proved prediction wrong so many times in what were meant to be his quieting seasons.
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
Fans The San Antonio Spurs are hosting watch parties in Austin on January 25th for their game against the Indiana Pacers in Paris. Fans can join in to celebrate and support the team. (Pounding the Rock)
Analysis Jeremy Sochan has become an irreplaceable asset for the Spurs. His defensive prowess and versatility have been critical in solidifying the team’s dynamics. (Pounding the Rock)
Preview The Spurs are heading to Paris for their game against the Indiana Pacers. This international matchup promises to be an exciting event for fans and players alike. (Sports Illustrated)
Injury Gregg Popovich’s timeline for return to the Spurs remains uncertain following his stroke, according to R.C. Buford. The team and fans are hopeful for his recovery. (Bleacher Report)
Feel Good Victor Wembanyama unveiled two basketball courts he designed in his French hometown, fulfilling a personal dream. This heartwarming story reflects his connection to his roots. Check out the feel-good story for more. (CBS Sports)
Biz Jalen Green becomes the face of his longtime favorite brand, Stone Island. (High Snobriety)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Five NBA Players to Buy Low in Fantasy Basketball
Jan 20, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Boston Celtics guard Derrick White (9) stands on the court after meeting with Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) before the start of the game at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images | Cary Edmondson/Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
As we approach the midpoint of the NBA season, it’s time to reassess our fantasy basketball strategies. Today, I’m sharing insights on five players who are prime candidates for “buy low” opportunities in your leagues.
Paolo Banchero tops our list. The Orlando Magic forward is currently the 79th ranked player, well below his potential. His shooting percentages are down, and he’s only averaging 21 points per game since returning from injury. However, I believe Banchero is a top 40 player in points leagues and has room for significant improvement. Don’t be fooled by his current struggles – this is an excellent time to acquire him at a discount.
Next up is Evan Mobley. The Cleveland Cavaliers big man is dealing with a calf strain, which has impacted his recent performance. His defensive stats and usage are down, but this presents a perfect buy-low scenario. Mobley is a third-round talent you might be able to snag for a fourth-round price. While there’s some injury risk, the potential reward outweighs it.
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
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San Antonio Spurs’ GM Brian Wright: The architect of success
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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.
