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nice post.
Fearlessness+Ability = Results --> Trust --> Chemistry --> Bigger Results
In the championship years, whenever one of the Big 3 had a rough night, there were 4 or 5 other players who could step up for 15+ to take up the slack. The thing I loved the most was that you never knew who it was going to be, but somebody would rise to the occasion.
Two seasons ago, there were many games where only 3 Spurs were in double figures, and a surprising number where only 2 players scored 10 or more. Last season was a little better in that regard, but you rarely had the feeling that one of the players outside the Big 3 had put up exceptional numbers, just when the team needed it. This season is looking different.
Against the Pacers, the Spurs had 6 players in double figures. A little misleading, since they ran the floor like the Suns of old. But George Hill put up 16 points, and James Anderson added 10. And Anderson gave us reason to believe that he could go large, if the situation called for it.
Against the Clippers, DeJuan Blair was held scoreless. But Gary Neal exploded for 16 points, and the Spurs had 5 players in double figures. James Anderson was one bounce away from double figures, finishing with 8 points.
Tonight, against the Suns, the Spurs only had 4 players in double figures, including a shaky 11 points from Tony Parker. But Richard Jefferson came up huge, and put the team over the top. Tiago Splitter also put up 7 in short minutes, and gave us reason to believe that he will be able to step up for a lot more before this season is over.
The loss to the Hornets, as might be expected, was the exception - sort of. Duncan was held to 7 points, and only 3 Spurs made it to double figures. That's going to lose most games. But even though it didn't result in a win, Richard Jefferson did his part by putting up 18 points. That night we needed one more player to step up.
From my perspective, this is one of the most hopeful things about the new season. The Spurs once again have a solid group of bench players that can go off for big numbers on any given night. More importantly, several of them have already shown that they can and will show up when the team needs them. These guys appear to be fearless, whether it's taking the ball to the rim, or shooting the three. In that regard this group could be more like some of the Spurs teams of old. Let's hope it looks that way in April and May.
nice post.
Fearlessness+Ability = Results --> Trust --> Chemistry --> Bigger Results
I know it's early in the season, but if Jefferson puts up around 16-18 points, I think we're gonna be fine even if one of the members of the Big Three is not playing well.
Trying my best to hold back getting too excited about it all but it sure does look promising.
Nice post, consistency will be key here.
good point.
Don't forget about Bonner...oh wait....
At one point during the game against the Suns I saw a lineup of Temple-Neal-Anderson-McDyess-Splitter and honestly didn't cringe. Sub Hill for Temple and that looks like an entire bench capable of playing long stretches and not giving up a lead. The depth of talent on this team is definitely a reason to hope for this year and the future.
Well , anything would be prefereable to the BMB trio (Bogans/Mason/Bonner) Pop seemingly played together at least once every game.
For the first time in a long time, it appears that offense will not be a problem for the team. Defense, however...
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