The Spurs Need a Point
The San Antonio Spurs have started this NBA well as always. They have a record of 9-3, which is good enough for 3rd in the Western Conference. Coach Gregg Popovich has done well so far in the post Tim Duncan era. We know this team is a solid contender.
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As a team, they’ve been very average. Honestly, the Spurs just find ways to win. The Spurs are ranked 9th in defense and 10th in offense. They’re 26 in the league in 3 point attempts but 2nd in the league in 3 point percentage. The Spurs offense is functioning at the level we’re used to seeing. MVP candidate Kawhi Leonard is leading this team in the right direction. But big man Pau Gasol seems to get lost on defense a lot. At times, he lacks the effort necessary to win. LaMarcus Aldridge is doing what he always does. Definitely have to shout out Jonothan Simmons. He had a great breakout game against the Golden State Warriors to start the season.
But I really just had to talk about Tony Parker. He’s always been one of my favorite point guards. His attitude and leadership ability is something to admire. This season Tony Parker is averaging 8.8 points and 4.5 assists. He’s never been a big stat sheet stuffer, but he’s also never been this unreliable. Parker is always fighting off the injury bug or the opposing teams guard is driving to score on him. His usage rate is 18.3 which the lowest in his career. Parker is still being asked to do too much. His minutes need to be lower than they already are.
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The Spurs basically need a new point guard. I respect Patty Mills. He is a sold NBA player but not a starter. The bench role fits him perfectly. Patty Mills brings the Spurs the energy they need off the bench. The bottom line is the Spurs need a point guard. Tony Parker is just past his prime. This upcoming draft will be full of young guards. Hopefully they can make a great pick. I also wouldn’t be surprised if they made a trade of some sort. With Gasol having issues fitting in, he could be moved for another piece.
