San Antonio Spurs: 5 keys to contending in 2017-18

OAKLAND, CA - MAY 14: Andre Iguodala #9 of the Golden State Warriors defends against Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs during Game One of the NBA Western Conference Finals at ORACLE Arena on May 14, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

2 of 6

Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images /

5. Team defense

Last season, the San Antonio Spurs had the best defense in the NBA. They had the best defensive rating in the entire association of 104.1, per Basketball Reference. They also held their opposition to 44.3 percent shooting from the field, which was fourth-best in the league.

The defense, as always, was led by perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate Kawhi Leonard. He tends to take the best player on the opposition team, making it difficult for them to impact the game.

The loss of Dewayne Dedmon will certainly have an impact. Last season he was given the starting center position when Gasol got injured. He only averaged 0.8 blocks per game for the season, but his rim protection was crucial in keeping the starting role when Gasol returned.

Must Read: 25 Best Players to Play for the San Antonio Spurs

What will determine the success of the defense for the year is how well the new players integrate into San Antonio’s defensive system.

Fortunately, the starting five remains reasonably constant. Aldridge, Leonard and Gasol will probably be the starting frontcourt. Danny Green and possibly Mills will probably be the starting backcourt, at least until Tony Parker returns from injury.

It is this continuity that will allow the San Antonio Spurs to continue to be a top defensive team in 2017-18.

Home/San Antonio Spurs