Grading San Antonio Spurs Forward Tim Duncan’s Performance In November
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The rumors are already popping up about the San Antonio Spurs and the preparation for Tim Duncan’s departure. The rumors and retirement talk haven’t seem to affected the emotionless big man, who has been putting on clinics for opposing post players this season.
So far in November, Duncan is averaging 13.8 PPG and 9.9 RPG. He is a plus-eight when he is on the floor and continues to play as the “Big Fundamental” when needed. His minutes are slightly up from last year, but Gregg Popovich continues to understand how to manage Duncan by resting him in the second game of back-to-backs.
Duncan’s game-high in scoring for the month came in the much-anticipated showdown with Cleveland Cavaliers. The Spurs won behind Duncan’s 19 points and 10 rebounds in 35 minutes. He also came up big in a statement game against the Los Angeles Clippers with 18 points and 11 rebounds.
Duncan has become the second or third option in the Spurs’ offense, but continues to produce at an high level. In his 18th season, the solid fundamentals of Duncan’s game have been the foundation that allows him to thrive so far past his prime. He’s adapted around the Tony Parker-driven team that plays mostly pick-and-roll basketball.
The Spurs are right where they want to be, considering that they are no where near 100 percent and playing without some key pieces. They continue to weather the storm because of the contributions from the mild-mannered, salt and pepper-haired Duncan, who refuses to give nothing but his best.
Grade: B
Winston Harris is a San Antonio sport writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on @winstonharris34. “Like” him of Facebook and add him on Google.
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