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NBA 2016-17 forecast: Southwest Division

By Brian Boake

Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors logo on the scoreboard to start the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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SAN ANTONIO SPURS

Last season: 67 – 15

This season: 52 – 30

The most successful sports franchise of the past two decades is ready to rock once again. The San Antonio Spurs lost cornerstone (and future Hall of Famer) Tim Duncan to the world’s quietest retirement, but he won’t be missed…much.

Duncan has been replaced, if that’s possible, by another legend, Pau Gasol. He’ll be up front with the formidable LaMarcus Aldridge. Small forward Kawhi Leonard is an MVP candidate; he provides top-flight offense and defense every night.

Apr 2, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) and forward Terrence Ross (31) and center Jonas Valanciunas (17) defend against San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half at the AT&T Center. The Spurs defeat the Raptors 102-95. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) and forward Terrence Ross (31) and center Jonas Valanciunas (17) defend against San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the second half at the AT&T Center. The Spurs defeat the Raptors 102-95. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

The backcourt will need some sorting out. Tony Parker won’t be getting nearly the minutes he’s enjoyed in the past, and I’m not sold on Patty Mills. Andre Miller is about 6,000 years old. Manu Ginobili is nearly done, which is too bad.

There’s no one on the planet who’s more likely to squeeze out wins than legendary coach Greg Popovich. He’s the ultimate “my way or the highway” boss, and there’s no arguing with the results. This team has 17 straight 50-win seasons under their belt, and will make it 18.

We’ll take a look at the Pacific Division next.

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