The Spurs are primed for a strong finish to the regular season and strong start to the postseason.
We're all upset, naturally, on the heels of a four game losing streak. I think its safe to say that every negative aspect has been well-covered in the forums over the past week or so. Gut-wrenchingly, the Spurs could've gone 3-1 or maybe even 4-0 over their last four games and been the talk of the L! Instead, they got a donut and four lumps. But at least the Spurs aren't losing due to lethargy or mutiny. Guys are trying, the coach is praising them, and the team morale seems OK judging by the looks of the guys on the bench, the coach's comments, the twitter feeds, etc. Perhaps, as is probably more often the case than not, the Spurs know more about what's going on in their heads and hearts than the fans do.
I think that its important to not only take note that these losses have occurred with Tim down, but also with Tony and Manu dinged up, and again, its not like they’re losing each game by over a dozen. I also think that the rest their veterans are getting will pay huge dividends, starting Thursday. Not only has Tim had nearly two weeks off come Thursday, but Manu and Tony will have had nearly four days, not to mention McDyess. Utltimately its all about being healthy and rested for the playoffs. I'll take my chances that Tim doesn't sprain his ankle again this season.
If you look at the next five games, the Spurs are really set up to start rolling again. I like that the team will be pretty healthy, rested and hungry against Boston, then they hit Houston, which is not intimidating. Afterwards, you’ve got Phoenix at home, then at sliding Altanta and then finishing up with the Kings at home. I see the Spurs realistically winning their next five straight. That should get them fired up and confident for a tough game later in L.A., where the Spurs will obviously have ample motivation to bring it.
Also, its great that every single bench player and their dog has gotten some serious floor burn the last few games. Let’s all talk about team chemistry if the Spurs rip off five plus straight wins and can call on a plethora of guys to step in and fill a role. Yes, Bonner and Jefferson have been awful lately, but better now than early in the postseason. And if they don't show up in the playoffs, maybe some of the other guys who have gotten some recent burn will be ready when called upon.
Finally, frustrating as things are right now and as resurgent as the Lakers are, the Spurs are still the top seed and we fans are ensured of some fun, compe ive and meaningful entertainment down the stretch. A couple years from now that might not be the case. The Spurs will be more than fine. Its good that they are definitely well under the radar again. They’re younger, more athletic players are also getting crucial experience to hopefully blend well with the smarts of the veterans.
Weird as it sounds now, as much of a stretch as it may seem, I actually feel good about the Spurs’ prospects and still have a sneaky feeling that we’ll see them still playing in June.
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