"Pathetic" was Coach Pop's description of his team's performance. He went on to say that the Mavs "deserved to win the game". We can understand where the 5 time champion coach is coming from. Besides, this is just classic Greg Popovich, not being celebratory about any win unless perhaps its a win that is soon followed by oozing bottles of champagne in the locker room with the Finals trophy being regarded as nothing less than the Holy Grail. But coach Pop does have a point in lambasting his team despite the win. The Spurs came into the ballgame with a 10-3 record against the Mavs' 2-10. They were on different sides of the spectrum and so the Spurs were expected to manhandle the Dirk-less Mavs. " But we are Tim-less ourselves" , could be the Silver and Black's quick retort as if they haven't yet moved on from Duncan's retirement.
Steph, err i mean, Seth Curry exploded for 23 points with 5 triples to boot. Harison Barnes likewise played bigtime and the Spurs were relieved to have survived what would have been their fourth loss at home. What's with the AT&T Center anyway? They are perfect on the road but are having a tough time defending their turf. Though it shouldn't be too much of a concern but still , the Spurs have to address this issue before it haunts them come playoff time.
This game once again showcases Ginobili's importance to the team. His rebound off a Harrison Barnes missed shot, and his two free throws after that all but sealed the Win for the Spurs. Kudos also to David Lee for his solid contribution off the bench along with Pau, Patty, and of course their main man Kawhi.
Two starters, Lamarcus Aldridge and Tony Parker, sat out the game. But still, NO EXCUSES, that is what Pop wants to convey to his team. After all, they were the first to hand Kevin Durant his first loss in a Warriors jersey, and on opening night at that. And the Spurs are the model for consistency in a league that has gotten used to dramatic turn arounds. They should have handled the Mavs easily. It was a nip in the bud and it was good that they still came out on top. We can expect the Spurs to play more efficiently come Wednesday against the Hornets lest they earn again the ire of their maestro. That is just the way it is in San Antonio. When Pop talks, everybody listens.
