Monday, 29 Apr 2024

2020-21 Season Preview: San Antonio Spurs

The San Antonio Spurs are gearing up for a new season with hopes of starting a new playoff streak. After missing out on the playoffs last season, the Spurs are ready to bounce back and showcase a brand new style of play that emerged during their time in the bubble.

A New Style of Play

In the bubble, the Spurs experimented with a young, four-guard lineup that brought a breakneck pace and more freedom on the floor. This led to impressive performances from the team’s youngsters and convinced head coach Gregg Popovich to adopt this style moving forward. The next evolution of San Antonio Spurs basketball is characterized by this up-tempo, free-flowing offense.

What’s New?

Aside from the new playing style, the Spurs didn’t have much flexibility to upgrade their roster in free agency. They focused on re-signing their own free agents, including bigs Drew Eubanks and Jakob Poeltl. They also added promising prospects in the draft, selecting Devin Vassell and Tre Jones. While rookies typically don’t play early under Popovich, both have a chance to work their way into the rotation.

Adjusting to a New Style

One important adjustment for the Spurs will be the increased emphasis on 3-point shooting. In particular, LaMarcus Aldridge has been working on expanding his range and becoming a legitimate threat from deep. If he succeeds, it will create more space for the team’s slashers to attack the basket. The team’s young stars from the bubble, Derrick White, Keldon Johnson, and Quinndary Weatherspoon, could miss the start of the season due to injuries.

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Potential Starting Five

  • Dejounte Murray | 10.9 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 4.1 apg
  • Derrick White | 11.3 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.5 apg
  • DeMar DeRozan | 22.1 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 5.6 apg
  • LaMarcus Aldridge | 18.9 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 2.4 apg
  • Jakob Poeltl | 5.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.4 bpg

Key Reserves

  • Patty Mills | 11.6 ppg, 1.6 rpg, 1.8 apg
  • Rudy Gay | 10.8 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 1.7 apg
  • Lonnie Walker IV | 6.4 ppg, 2.3 rpg, 1.1 apg

Season Prediction

The Spurs are expected to push teams and be an exciting team to watch. With Popovich’s coaching and a young, athletic roster, they have a fighting chance to make the playoffs. However, it might not be enough to secure a spot in the postseason this year. The Spurs are building for the future, and with DeRozan and Aldridge coming off the books next season, they will have more flexibility in free agency. Overall, the Spurs are predicted to finish the season with a record of 35-37.

FAQs

Q: Will the Spurs make the playoffs this season?
A: While the Spurs have the potential to make the playoffs, it will be a tough battle in a competitive Western Conference. They have a young and talented roster, but the final outcome is uncertain.

Q: Who are the key players to watch for the Spurs this season?
A: Keep an eye on Dejounte Murray, Derrick White, and DeMar DeRozan. Murray is known for his defensive abilities, White has shown great improvement in his shooting, and DeRozan brings scoring and playmaking to the team.

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Summary

The San Antonio Spurs are entering the 2020-21 season with a renewed sense of purpose. After missing the playoffs last year, the team is embracing a new style of play that prioritizes a fast pace and more freedom on the court. Despite limited options in free agency, the Spurs have re-signed key players and added promising rookies to their roster. The team will rely heavily on LaMarcus Aldridge’s expanded 3-point shooting and the contributions of their young stars. While making the playoffs will be a challenging task, the Spurs are laying the groundwork for future success. With a record of 35-37, the team will demonstrate improvement and excitement throughout the season. Visit Osceolagarage.com for more information and updates on the San Antonio Spurs.