Tim looks really young this season

[Obstructed_View]

The biggest problem he had in previous years is that he wasn't in shape to play 35 minutes once the time came for him to do so, either due to wind or to wear-and-tear on his knee. Hopefully losing the weight helps in both areas. Then all he needs is a coach that plays him the required minutes in the postseason, which Pop has been more willing to do with a lighter, more nimble Duncan.

[therealtruth]

I guess I see what you mean. I don't think Tim will go out like Shaq though. Shaq let himself go BADLY his last few years. . .look how fat he was. Shaq sorta stopped trying after his 4th ring, then tried for one year in Phoenix (2nd year) to prove he still had it. . . then coasted for the rest of his career after Timmy hit that three in Shaq's eye to tie the game and send it into OT in the playoffs (remember that game? Best first round game ever imo).

I don't think Timmy is that kind of person. He's already at the age where Shaq took a nosedive, but appears to be better than the last 2 seasons instead of worse. It's early, but still, looks great so far. Guy still cares a lot and thinks the Spurs can win another le if they try hard enough these next 1-2 years. He probably felt they could win the last 2 years too (so did I), but it didn't happen.

Tbh, I hope he sticks around as long as possible. Spurs won't be the same without him. It's sad to think that he's going to be gone in a couple years. I definitely wouldn't want that time to get here sooner than later. Even last year, he might not be the offensive force he used to be, but he was still locking people up on D' imo. His only particularly down year was 2 years ago. He looked like he was playing through pain all year.

Shaq never put the effort in. He would use the beginning of the season to work himself back into shape.

[Kidd K]

Shaq never put the effort in. He would use the beginning of the season to work himself back into shape.

Yep, exactly. I always hated when guys did that. You usually notice that in baseball more than basketball. . .dudes coming into Spring Training and there's always some line about how they're 15-20 lbs overweight. It's like some of these guys just plop on the couch and say " it, it's my time off", rather than remember they're under contract for another 5 years @10+ mil a year.