The 2014 NBA offseason is one of the most exciting offseason
in recent years, especially for the Cavs fans and other teams. But we can't say
that to the Spurs fans. Like the old times we did not get any big names in the
market. And I find it very strange it seems that they don't want to play for
the Spurs. As I remember the only player that choose to play for us is Michael
Finley back in 2005, and it turns out to be a great choice, because he get his
only ring with the Spurs in 2007. Anyway we don't need to sign big free agents
to win championship, and we already proved that.
Last season we witness how good the Spurs can be. Despite of
many injuries, the Spurs still manage to win 62 games in the regular season,
best overall in the league. Although we need 7 games to beat the Mavs, the
Spurs cruise past the tough Western Conference without much of a problem. And
we all know what happened in the finals. Last season was one the best season (if
not the best) for the Spurs. They really have a good team, and that's the
priority of the management for next season, bring back the whole gang.
San Antonio re-signed Boris Diaw and Patty Mills, two
players that played a large role during the Spurs success last season. Mills
had a breakout season last year. He averaged a career-high 10.2 points per game
while shooting 42.5 percent on 3-pointers, while Diaw continued to revive his
career with San Antonio, with his high basketball IQ and versatility on both
ends of the floor. They also re-signed veteran shooter Matt Bonner; they also
guaranteed the contract of Austin Daye who could have a breakout next season.
Then on the draft night Spurs pick Kyle Anderson a versatile player who can play
multiple position, an exceptional passer with high basketball IQ. He seems
like a perfect fit for the Spurs. All he needs is to improve his defence, but
knowing Gregg Popovich he will find ways to hide Anderson's weakness, and take
full advantage of his strength.
The Spurs have the best coaching staff in the league, led by
Greg Popovich, and it will get even better with the addition of Ettore Messina,
He is a four-time Euroleague champion and two-time coach of the year in the
same league and was named the one of the “50 Greatest Euroleague Contributors”
in its history. That says it all. Many say that he will take Greg Popovich spot
when he retires.
The Spurs never won back to back championship. After a
dominant season they will have nearly the same roster that won it last year. It
does not guarantee that they will win again, but I really like their chances.
Did the Spurs have a great offseason? I must say same old same old...
