Jun 8, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich talks to forward
Tim Duncan(21) guard
Tony Parker(9) and forward
Kawhi Leonard(2) against the Miami Heat in game two of the 2014 NBA Finals at AT&T Center. The Heat won 98-96. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
San Antonio Spurs
Last Year’s Outcome: 55-27, L, First Round
Best-Case Scenario: NBA Champions
Why: Remember the last time the Spurs lost a close playoff series? Oh yea, they went on to trample the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals the very next year. This time they may be even scarier. What do you do if you lost in the first round of the playoffs? Well, you go out and get the most sought after free agent.
LaMarcus Aldridge‘s decision to join the Spurs struck fear and frustration into the heart’s of all other NBA teams. Really? The Spurs? Throw in the addition of David West (who chose San Antonio over Indiana for $10 million less a year) and this team is just down right frightening. Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobli return looking to ride off into the sunset with one last title. With the intimidating cast of character that Gregg Popovich has at his disposal, the Spurs seem destined for another championship. Let’s face it, Duncan deserves to go out on top.
Worst-Case Scenario: First Round Playoff Exit
Why: When looking at the roster there is really only one thing that could limit the Spurs: age. Tony Parker has shown a drastic drop in efficiency as his age increases and if the more seasoned bodies get banged up, then the Spurs could be in for a letdown.
Yes, the Spurs have an obscene amount of depth. Yes, Gregg Popovich has a penchant for resting players throughout the year. The worst thing that could happen to Popovich and company is that health is a struggle and that aligns them for a match-up with one of the other top teams in the West. Anything can happen in the playoffs and the worst nightmare for the Spurs faithful would be an early playoff exit.
What Will Probably Happen: NBA Champions
Why: Call this a prediction. The Spurs are on a mission. Popovich, Duncan, Ginobli and Parker are laser focused and set on retribution. Armed with a perennial all-star in Aldridge, a rising two-way star in Kawhi Leonard, and defensive sharpshooter Danny Green. David West and his furrowed brow also looks poised and ready to get his chance at a title. Throw in the ridiculous amount of depth that the Spurs possess and they are the early favorites to win the title.
Next: Toronto Raptors