NBA Power Rankings: 2016-17 Training Camp Edition

Jun 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with the Larry O
Jun 19, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with the Larry O
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May 12, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up the court against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
May 12, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) brings the ball up the court against Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson (21) during the first quarter in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Tim Duncan may not be a member of the Spurs anymore, but San Antonio is still going to be really good this season. The ultimate question with this team is going to be is whether this their frontcourt will be up to the task on the defensive end.

With Duncan no longer in uniform, the defensive onus falls on Pau Gasol and LaMarcus Aldridge, two players who aren’t exactly known for being elite rim defenders.

This team’s ability to remain one of the better defensive teams in the NBA could be the difference from the Spurs being a good or great team.

Then again, Kawhi Leonard’s greatness could overcome all that. Yes, he’s that good.