The San Antonio Spurs may have finished their season short of preseason expectations, but the failure doesn’t fully lie on the players or the coaching staff.
Gregg Popovich’s health issues prevented him from being on the sidelines for much of the season. Victor Wembanyama’s blood clots forced the team to deactivate him for the remainder of the season. De’Aaron Fox, the star guard they moved for at the trade deadline, also had to sit out with his injured finger.
It was clear that San Antonio was out of playoff contention when their two star players had to sit out. However, the team’s performance at the end of the season was a reminder to fans that the team can go nowhere but up.
As San Antonio looks forward, the question of their upcoming free-agent class becomes a major highlight. Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes. The two veterans have played great basketball for the Spurs, and some fans wonder what the team’s approach would be.
Acting head coach Mitch Johnson ended any speculation about their futures as he came clean with the team’s plans.
Mitch Johnson wants Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes to stay with the San Antonio Spurs
Mitch Johnson hasn’t won the Spurs coaching job just yet, but he’s speaking for many in the organization when he hinted about the team’s desire to keep both CP3 and Barnes in the roster.
Per Athlon Sports’ Jonah Kubicek:
“I don’t want to get into whatever, but those guys have played 81 games,” praised acting head coach Mitch Johnson. “To think that those guys are not having bumps and bruises like I actually will tip the cap that they played tonight to 14 minutes because I’m sure their bodies would probably use a night off.”
Both Paul and Barnes put up strong seasons to help the Spurs remain competitive out west. CP3 may no longer have the pep in his step, but his averages this season are fantastic for a rotation option.
Credit: Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News
Meanwhile, Barnes enjoyed a decent season at the Frost Bank Center. The one-time NBA champion has done a terrific job as a reliable scoring option for the Spurs.
While plenty of things can happen between now and free agency, Spurs fans would be delighted to know that their team is eager to keep the veterans in the squad to help them win when Wemby and Fox eventually return.
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