San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs suffered a disastrous defeat to the Thunder in six games before they could reach the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference Finals.
Perhaps more importantly, this series could mark the end of the original Big 3 era in San Antonio. Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, and Tony Parker have lead the team to four NBA Championships and have yet to miss a playoff birth with both Gregg Popovich and Duncan on the team.
Even though that original Big 3 may be on its final legs, a new Big 3 era is being formed.
The key to keeping this team a dynamic frontrunner in the West is the signing of (UFA) Mike Conley. A proven point guard from Memphis, he could recreate the role that Tony Parker has played.
Popovich is one of the best coaches in the NBA at finding, and acquiring, new young talent to work with. He’ll have that same opportunity this summer.
The Spurs were a dynamic offense in 2015-16, averaging 103.5 points per game which was 10th best in the league. They were third in total assists, with 2,100, and fifth best in limiting turnovers.
Since last week's piece about the Spurs' free-agent interest in Kevin Durant more than one spy has whispered: They'll court Mike Conley, too
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) May 13, 2016
However, they need Conley to keep these numbers as effective next season as they were this past season. That’s the guy San Antonio should pursue, not Kevin Durant.
Next: Miami Heat