The Alamo City deep in the heart of Texas is one of the greatest cities in the entire country. A mix of culture and race, San Antonio is a remarkable place. They are famous for a variety of reasons, but none biggest as the home of their beloved Spurs. After Gregg Popovich took over the team in the late '90s, San Antonio Spurs have set several records including 20 straight playoff appearances.
The end of an era
The Spurs, who are commonly known because of their ¨beautiful game¨ or referred to as the ¨system¨, has an unusual approach towards basketball.
Yes, they have cornerstones like any other ball club, but their team chemistry is what makes them special. Ever since they´ve drafted Tim Duncan in 1997, the Spurs have won a total of five championships. Duncan, who is widely considered as the greatest power forward of all time is a walking enigma himself. This is the very reason why he got his moniker as ¨The Big Fundamental¨.
DeMar DeRozan needs help
With Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker all gone from the team, the responsibility is now being shouldered by DeMar DeRozan. Prior to that, the plan was to keep Kawhi Leonard as their franchise player, but it didn´t materialise due to some differences. Going back to DeRozan, he is single-handedly carrying the team, but it's still not enough.
As mentioned, Spurs are at their deadliest if everybody in the team is actually clicked. Multiple All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge had only three great games this season and he needs to get out of the slump as soon as possible.
LaMarcus Aldridge disappearing act
Currently, the San Antonio Spurs are almost at the bottom of the Western Conference.
As a fan of basketball, this is one of the hardest things to see, a proud dynasty that is starting to crumble. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith was on point when he stated that Gregg Popovich isn´t the problem. On the same note, he also commented on how the Spurs can still fix their season. Smith was loud and clear when he called out LaMarcus Aldridge.
Hopefully, Aldridge gets the message.
Jam-packed Western Conference
By the numbers, the Spurs have a low to slim chance in making the playoffs. Among the top eight teams in the west, the Memphis Grizzlies and the Sacramento Kings are the only possible teams that can be kicked out of the playoff bracket. Spurs aren´t the only Texas team that is having a problem. Anointed by most basketball analysts as the second best team in the league, the Rockets right now are just terrible. However, they have the capability of reaching top eight once their point guard, Chris Paul, is ready to play.
Players likely to sign with Spurs
The Spurs can still do it, but realistically they have to make some changes. The ¨system¨ is still intact, but the shots are not going in.
With that said, there are plenty of high calibre scorers and slashers that the Spurs can use this season. Veterans Jamal Crawford, Trevor Ariza and JR Smith would be a great addition to the Spurs. Also, Carmelo Anthony is looking to land a team and many Spurs fans might hate it, but they can use his help as well.
