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Slowly but surely the realism is starting to set in. Have we seen the end of the old school Spurs era?
The San Antonio Spurs went down valiantly to the third seed Oklahoma City Thunder 4-2 following a 113-99 defeat. A 32-point victory in game one potentially signified a classic Spurs destructive series. Credit to the Thunder, they bounced back to win the next four of five The speed and athleticism of the dynamic Thunder duo in Westbrook and Durant as well as an emerging support cast proved to be too much for the older, more experienced Spurs.
However, San Antonio showcased their heart and passion that has been displayed throughout the Popovich era. Up against the odds throughout game 6 the Spurs never quit. In vintage Spurs fashion they attempted to peg back a 26 point deficit heading into the fourth. Getting as close as nine points late in the fourth they just simply ran out of gas.
Throughout this series Duncan and Ginobli seemed a step behind raising the question; have the two played their final NBA season?
Duncan especially struggled in the series. He wasn’t able to chorale the physical Steven Adams. The young Kiwi was able to establish position earlier, get to the loose balls quicker and most importantly crash the offensive board with greater potency.
Game 6 may have been his last but Duncan provided a vintage performance. In 34 minutes of action Duncan poured in 19 points along with five rebounds and a block. His effectiveness translated into a +13 on court. The 40-year-old finished his 19th NBA season with averages of 8.6 points per game and 7.3 rebounds. Although he posted career lows, Duncan was still a force.
Defensively he posted an incredible 96 Defensive rating. Anchoring the Spurs’ stout defence the Spurs were +4.2 points better with Tim on the court. As indicated by his 8.6 points per game his offensive game took a step back. Tim shot a career low 27.8% from mid-range. His finishing around the rim as well was the second lowest of his career.
Similarly, Ginobli may be on his way out. The Spurs’ sixth man capped off his 14th NBA season averaging 9.6 points per game and 3.1 assists in a meager average of 19.6 minutes a night. Shooting 39% from arc, the Spurs were an incredible +4.3 points per 100 possessions better with him on the court though, highlighting his effective scoring and team play.
His finishing took a step back (53.7% inside the restricted area) but nonetheless the Spurs benefitted from Ginobli’s presence. Now 38 years old, Ginobli is on his final legs. Defensively he’s still an above average on-ball defender, but his challenges remain off the ball, where he struggles to navigate through screens in order to stay close to the faster shooting guards.
The two stars have had illustrious careers. Combined the two have won nine NBA championships and participated in 17 All-Stars games. Duncan has won two MVPs, three Finals MVPs and an All-Star game MVP, whereas Ginobli has been a perennial sixth man of the year candidate, winning the award once in 2010.
Their accolades are numerous and widespread. The two are a part of the greatest dynasty and big three of all time. The trio of Ginobli, Parker and Duncan hold the record for most regular season and playoff wins for any NBA trio. Destined to be first ballot hall of famers the duo has nothing to accomplish. A fifth and sixth ring respectively is a case to return, but in a year where the big three transitioned into role players to pave the way for LaMarcus Aldridge and MVP runner-up Kawhi Leonard, this could be the perfect time to pass on the torch.
Although their stats may not indicate it, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobli are still NBA contributors. Game 6 showcased the skills Duncan has demonstrated throughout this season and his career. Ginobli was devastating with the second unit. Both players are capable of returning for another season. They may be a lesser version of their younger selves but Duncan and Ginobli can still match it with the best.
Both players have options for the 2016-17 season. As always they will sit down with Pop and Tony to discuss the future of the Spurs. With Kevin Durant and other possible free agents on the cards to sign with the Spurs, there may be no room. The final image of Duncan walking off the court holding his right index finger up will resonate with all NBA fans. If this is their last hurrah, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobli have provided the NBA with the greatest dynasty of all time.
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