Preseason Preview

The Spurs began the season 4-6 but have since gone 21-10. They are now looking like that team that could challenge the Lakers as many predicted.

Tim Duncan is possibly playing the best he has ever played. He is shooting a significantly higher field goal percentage than ever before and is averaging a double-double with 20 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Richard Jefferson hasn’t quite fit in yet but he’s still a solid contributor. If he can pick it up a bit they will challenge the Lakers for the Western Conference title.

Ready to Breakout vs. Reality: Not many people know of George Hill but he is a big part of the Spurs’ team. He’s their second-leading scorer off the bench (to Manu Ginobili) and is a more than capable back-up for Tony Parker. He has nearly doubled his points per game from last season and is shooting a higher percentage.

Over the Hill vs. Reality: As predicted Antonio McDyess' minutes are down significantly with the addition of DeJuan Blair. McDyess is averaging career lows in points and rebounds but is still good to have on the bench for the Spurs.

Worst Moment: On November 19, the Spurs lost their third straight to fall to 4-6. To make matters worse, they lost at home to the Jazz for the first time in a decade.

Best Moment: On January 12, they beat the Lakers by 20 points in their first meeting of the season. The Lakers were without Pau Gasol and Kobe Bryant had a bad back but nevertheless they dominated the whole game.

Best Case Scenario: They finish as the two-seed in the West but go into the playoffs completely healthy. They beat the Lakers in the Conference finals and are able to pull on their championship experience to win another title.

Worst Case Scenario: An injury to Tim Duncan or Manu Ginobili derails their chances of a title and they are upset in the first round of the playoffs. Their championship window closes a little more.

Trade Target: They have the expiring contracts with Matt Bonner, Michael Finley and Roger Mason if they want to make a deal. They will keep their ears open but will most likely stand pat with their current roster.

NBA Midseason Reports