NBA: Spurs Must Show Strength Without Duncan in Portland

The San Antonio Spurs have the best record in the NBA but Tim Duncan’s injury has cast doubt over their potential as title contenders. Al Dannity says tonight’s game against the Trail Blazers offers a chance for San Antonio’s other stars to shine.

Dull but deadly
The Trail Blazers are not the most entertaining team in the NBA. All they do is win a lot of Basketball games. The same could be said for the Spurs, the key difference is that San Antonio win more. A lot more. The problem is, they haven’t outperformed most of their Western Conference rivals since losing Tim Duncan to injury. With Portland still battling to ensure they make it to the post-season, the Trail Blazers will provide the perfect test for the Duncan-less Spurs.

LaMarcus Aldridge had a huge day when these teams met last month, scoring 40 points and getting 11 rebounds in a 99-86 victory for Portland. Shutting down Aldridge, or at least limiting his productivity, will be the top priority. The Trail Blazers’ star has gone on a tear since that performance, putting up good numbers against all comers.

Manu Ginobili and Gary Neal showed the Spurs can lean on their other stars for offense but a horrible defensive showing against the Nuggets provides some cause for concern. NBA betting fans should keep an eye on how San Antonio’s defense performs against the slower-paced Portland team tonight.

Around the league
Hello New York, you are aware the playoffs are around the corner right? The Knicks have slid below .500. Despite looking set for the long-term they currently look like a team that will do well to win a game, never mind a series, in the playoffs. The playoff-hopeful Bucks will look to capitalize on New York’s recent slide when they travel to Madison Square Garden tonight.

Chicago, Boston, and Miami continue their three-way dance at the top of the Eastern Conference, with all three in action tonight. The Bulls host the Grizzlies, the Celtics welcome the Bobcats to Boston, while the Heat are at home against the 76ers.

The playoff field in the Western Conference could become a lot clearer tonight if the Hornets can win in Phoenix. The Suns post-season hopes are on life-support and a home loss to the current #7 seed would all but end their season.