NBA 2016-17 forecast: Southwest Division
By Brian Boake
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.
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.