Why the Spurs are deeper than you think

Why the Spurs Are Deeper Than You Think

The San Antonio Spurs have emerged as one of three remaining undefeated teams, enjoying a franchise-best start with five straight wins. This early success is not a coincidence, even without key rotation players like All-Star De’Aaron Fox and backup big men Kelly Olynyk and Luke Kornet.

Despite missing key players, the Spurs boast the highest average winning margin in the NBA at 14.4 points. However, two of those wins came against still-winless teams: the Brooklyn Nets and New Orleans Pelicans. Their toughest matchup so far was against the Miami Heat, who hold a 3-2 record.

The Spurs rank fourth-slowest in game pace but lead the league in fastbreak points. This indicates they strike selectively in transition, capitalizing on opponents’ weak defense rather than pushing early offense. Although the Heat rank first and second in pace and fastbreak points, the Spurs outperformed them in both areas during a six-point victory.

"With Fox, they’d likely be playing quicker because of his dynamic abilities in space, but the team has operated at such a high level, showing they can get by without him."

There is a trade-off in Fox’s absence: defensive specialist Castle provides stronger perimeter defense, a key factor contributing to the Spurs’ second-best defensive rating in the league.

Author's summary: The Spurs' strong start highlights their depth and versatility, thriving even without star players by leveraging sharp defense and selective fast breaks.

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