After what can most kindly be described as a sluggish first quarter (luckily for both teams), Spurs locked in and essentially didn't look back, with the exception of the last few minutes of the third. I love that Pop calls timeouts when he sees Spurs execute poorly on either end regardless of how big the lead is. Murray wasn't running much of anything, and after a quick timeout and earful from Pop, back in he went.
Murray has shown flashes of what he could grow into, but at this point he's still inconsistent in terms of channeling his skills within the team system. He's very crafty and has good instincts, but he hasn't shown a steady ability to lead and run the O. Then again, he's still really young and learning/being taught about the game in what can only be the best possible environment to become a complete player. The commentators were saying that he worked with Kawhi this summer. I can't wait to see Murray when he starts putting it all together.
Speaking of the Spurs commentators, outside of the slightly cheesy lines when Patty makes a 3, they're a pleasure to listen to. There's very little homerism, they're honest about how the team is playing, and they explain the plays Spurs run between whistles. No need to switch to opponent feeds! Refreshing.
Despite playing a tired Hornets squad, it was still back to a full team effort tonight for the Spurs, great to see. I love that any number and combination of guys step up on any given night and it's not a surprise. LMA, Gasol, Anderson, Mills, Green, Gay, Gino stood out tonight - and not just with points, but rebounds, assists, blocks, etc.
"Just ball movement, making the extra pass, trying to get to the rim and just finding the open guy," Aldridge said.
http://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975028I was impressed with Anderson's game. He's growing into a reliable steady anchor in the starting line-up. He's really making the most of his opportunity. If there's a silver lining to Kawhi's injury, it's other players becoming bigger threats come playoffs.
I'm glad Kemba was ok. Always liked him because he plays with heart and is improving. Fun to watch.
Checked out our next opponent. Mavs demolished OKC. Mavs looked like a playoff team, but OKC is more Hyde than Jekyll this year so I'm not sure what it means about Dallas, only that any opponent can step up and no win is automatic. I expect the Spurs to respect the Mavs and show up prepared.