But Isn't Splitter an Asset on Offense?
If you look at Splitter's stats, one would assume he's a player who helps the Spurs on the offensive end. On the season, he's shooting 58.9% from the floor and, right now at least, he's the team's best low post scorer -- and that's including Duncan. Splitter is averaging a very respectable 14.9 points per 40 minutes and has improved his free throw percentage from 54.3% as a rookie to 71.4% this year.
Unfortunately, advanced statistical analysis shows that Splitter is an offensive liability. And an undeniable liability at that.
As a rookie, the Spurs averaged 97.8 points per 48 minutes Splitter was on the court. That was far and away the worst mark on the team.
Team Points Per 48 Minutes
Manu Ginobili - 107.8
Matt Bonner - 104.6
Tim Duncan - 104.5
George Hill - 103.1
DeJuan Blair - 102.9
Tony Parker - 102.7
Gary Neal - 102.6
Richard Jefferson - 102.4
Antonio McDyess - 100.9
Tiago Splitter - 97.8