Why the Spurs Are Deeper Than You Think
The San Antonio Spurs are one of three undefeated teams remaining and have started the season with a franchise-best five-game winning streak. Despite missing key rotation players like All-Star De’Aaron Fox and backup big men Kelly Olynyk and Luke Kornet, the team’s success is no accident.
The Spurs are winning by an average of 14.4 points per game, the highest margin in the NBA so far. However, two of those wins came against the Brooklyn Nets and New Orleans Pelicans, both still winless. The toughest opponent to date has been the Miami Heat, who hold a 3-2 record.
Strategic Pace and Scoring
The Spurs are the fourth-slowest team in pace but rank first in fastbreak points. They capitalize on selective fastbreak opportunities, exploiting weaker transition defenses rather than pushing an early offense. Despite the Miami Heat being first and second in both pace and fastbreak points, the Spurs outperformed them in each area during a recent six-point victory.
Impact of Missing Players
With Fox on the court, the Spurs would likely play faster due to his dynamic open-court abilities. Still, the team's high-level performance shows they can succeed without him.
“Castle is a superior defender, and hounding rivals on the perimeter is a big reason they have the second-rated defensive rating.”
Fox’s absence comes with a trade-off: increased perimeter defense by players like Castle strengthens the team’s defensive rating.
Summary
The Spurs’ deep roster and strategic playstyle allow them to thrive despite key absences, combining strong defense with efficient fastbreak scoring.
Author's summary: The Spurs demonstrate impressive depth and adaptability, excelling both offensively and defensively even without their star players.