San Antonio Spurs: 5 keys to series vs. Warriors

The San Antonio Spurs play the Golden State Warriors in a gripping first round matchup in the 2018 NBA Playoffs. Here are five keys to the series.

The San Antonio Spurs pulled off an improbable playoff berth in 2017-18. From the start of February to the middle of March, the Spurs went 3-11 and looked like they were slipping out of contention. Then they went on a six-game winning streak and got their season back on track.

Now the regular season has ended, the Spurs own the 7-seed with a 47-35 record and booked themselves a first round series against the Golden State Warriors. Unfortunately, this is not going to be the heavy-weight battle we are used to seeing when these two meet.

Neither team is going into the matchup with its biggest superstar. The Spurs are without Kawhi Leonard, who has been out for all but nine games in the season. It is unclear when Leonard will return, but it is unlikely to be in this series.

The Warriors, meanwhile, will be without two-time MVP Stephen Curry and Patrick McCaw for the first round series. Andre Iguodala is dealing with left knee soreness and it is questionable if he will play in Game 1.

Even without these players, this matchup is going to be full of star power and is going to be a true test for both teams. Here are five keys to the series if the Spurs are to prevail.