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Class Still Shines Through
So, it's the LA Lakers advancing to the NBA Finals. Could this series have gone differently with a few breaks going the way of the Silver and Black? Sure, but the Spurs are not a team that makes excuses or leans on "what ifs?" They've got too much respect for the game and for their opponent to get up on a soapbox after a game and complain about bad calls or tight scheduling or a mechanical problem on a plane. Players like Tony Parker just deal with it and move on, "Tough losses - Game 1, Game 4 and this one (Game 5). All of those games where we were up and playing pretty good and it just didn't work out our way. You just have to give credit to the Lakers; they played better than us for a long period of time." With all the Spurs have accomplished in the past decade, perhaps their best legacy will be the class they've exhibited on and off the court.
No Bones About It
It's safe to say Brent Barry has had better NBA seasons. He has endured a painful calf injury, a trade to Seattle, (subsequently getting waived by the Sonics and re-signed by the Spurs) and then a lengthy stay on the Spurs inactive list while rehabiitating the calf. Barry kept hoping that he could get healthy and then make a contribution at some point. He did exactly that in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals and he will likely get more opportunities. Barry's ability to spread a defense with his three point accuracy and knack for finding open teammates while driving could make him a valuable commodity in the series with the Lakers. His play in Game 3 was typified by a nifty bounce pass to a cutting Tony Parker, who finished with a twisting layup. His floor play drew accolades from teammates and coaches alike with Tony commenting, “He played great. He made shots, passed the ball very well, moved the ball and was constantly moving. He played great basketball and brought us a lot of energy from the bench." While Barry may not be a natural point guard, his considerable offensive skills and high basketball IQ could serve the Spurs well against LA.
Ime Stepping Up In Playoffs
Ime Udoka is the only Spurs rotation player without extensive playoff experience, but the reason he was successful in Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals is the same reason why he's popular with his teammates and coaches. "He's a tough, hard nosed, strong man" says Spurs assistant coach Brett Brown, who quickly points out that the Spurs often have Udoka guard bigger players.
Udoka has enjoyed his playoff experience so far, and came up with 15 points, six rebounds and lots of tough defense in Game 4. Don't be surprised to see him match up more with Hornets sub Bonzi Wells during the remainder of the series.
Turnovers Proving Costly
Prior to game two against New Orleans, Spurs guard Manu Ginobili said, "It may sound simple, but what we have to do is cut down on our mistakes." Ginobili specifically mentioned turnovers. When you turn the ball over, you forfeit a shot, disrupt your offensive rhythm and often give your opponent an opportunity to score an easy basket.
As the Spurs get set for Game 3 with the series shifting back home, taking care of the ball willl be critical. The Hornets have been going to the bank on nearly every Spurs turnover, cashing in on the offensive miscues and leading to big runs which have been the difference in the series.
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