The Spurs’ Offseason: The Drama Begins

Some say that a good story starts with a dramatic event. If that’s the case, then the Spurs’ offseason plot will be intriguing.

Their endeavors to better their roster commenced at the 2008 NBA Draft. While the better known names of players remained on the board, the Spurs bewildered fans and spectators by choosing with the 26^th pick the little-known George Hill from IUPUI.

Far from being a random pick, the Spurs targeted the 6’2 guard who according to Popovich will “make our team better right off the bat.” Draft night remained busy and San Antonio went on to acquire Malik Hairston and James Gist. Both will have a more difficult time landing a roster spot but may be assigned to the Spurs’ NBDL team, the Austin Toros.

So now what? Next on the Spurs’ list is the summer league, where they will evaluate talent. Europeans, Robertas Javtokas and Viktor Sanikidze, might be given another opportunity to demonstrate that they are ready to contribute on an NBA team.

Also, the Spurs will turn their attention towards the free agent market where they are expected to sign an additional player using their mid-level exception.

The Spurs will soon find themselves with choices to make. Ian Mahinmi is expected to get some playing time and there is now word that Robert Horry has decided to play another year, preferably with San Antonio.

So with limited roster spots available, who stays and who goes? There will be enough time to answer these questions. For now, we know that the Spurs’ offseason, like a good story, has begun with an interesting twist.