Before Tip-Off: Ginobili will be limited vs. Jazz, Pop discusses Leonard’s defense
The San Antonio Spurs (2-0) and the Utah Jazz (1-1) are set to tip-off in the AT&T Center later tonight in a one-versus-eight rematch of last year’s opening playoff round. While the Spurs have almost the exact same team back in silver and black, the Jazz have made some significant changes to their team.
Before discussing some Jazz additions, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich said guard Manu Ginobili will play “limited” minutes tonight against the Jazz. On the Jazz, coach Popovich said the Jazz are a “better balanced” team with their established front court of Al Jefferson, Paul Millsap, and Derrick Favors, but they’ve become a tougher opponent with the additions of Mo Williams and Marvin Williams on the perimeter.
Focusing back on the Spurs, defense was an important concept in training camp this year. Coach Popovich said he has seen the carry-over defensively thus far in the Spurs’ first two games. With that defense, Coach Popovich credits the young sophomore Kawhi Leonard for leading the way in the first two games.
“As far as defense goes” said Popovich,” he (Leonard) can pretty much lead the way for this team, as he did in New Orleans and as he did against OKC.”
Well, the Spurs are 3-0 after besting the jazz. Luck continues to favor them. But where are Bonner, Bair and Splitter? So far Green seems to play well. Wait till the WCFs if they make it. Where are the 8 guards? Warming the bench?
@rtesoro440 When Duncan is playing this well, we don't need them honestly. I didn't get to catch the game, but from the highlights and box score, it looked like Splitter once again got humiliated on his soft shots which he continues to take instead of dunking the ball. I don't understand why he doesn't take it strong to the basket off pick and rolls? He's legit 6'11" is he not? DUNK THE BALL SPLITTER!
TD can't withstand the rigors of 82 games. If his minutes per game doesn't change, he may suffer a breakdown. Even a well-oiled machine needs rest to perform. No one in the lineup is able to sub him. Perhaps, they should find a suitable sub and Kenyon Martin is until today remain unsigned. He has the necessary experience, height and body to be an impact player. He performed creditably with the clippers.
