 |
| (compujermey/Flickr) |
NBA fans must face a growing reality: there very well may
not be a season in 2011-2012. Commissioner David Stern hinted that Christmas
games are the next casualty of the labor dispute and there is no
indication either side will surrender.
While most
teams, players, and fans are distraught at the potential lost season, the San
Antonio Spurs have arguably the most to lose. The aging Spurs were poised for
one final push at a championship ring, but their pursuit has been derailed by greed.
Tim Duncan is already 35 and saw his
productivity greatly decrease over the last two seasons, going from 19.3 PPG to 13.4
PPG and 8.0 RPG to 6.7 RPG. Richard Jefferson, 31, has had minimal impact since
arriving in San Antonio. Meanwhile, Manu Ginobili is 34, but has shown no sign
of slowing down. Unfortunately, Ginobili and 29-year-old PG Tony Parker cannot
carry the Spurs deep in the playoffs against Western powers such as Dallas, Los Angeles (Lakers, of course),
and Oklahoma City. Ultimately, a lost season signifies a changing of the guard in the
Western Conference and a new era in San Antonio.
Conversely, if the obstinate owners and relentless players somehow manage to negotiate a new labor agreement before the entire season is lost, the Spurs may be the beneficiary. A shortened season would mean less wear and tear on the seasoned veterans legs.
The Spurs, who are notorious for their torrid starts, could then carry their momentum to the postseason, and make one more stand, defending The Alamodome from the rapidly approaching Western powers
No comments:
Post a Comment