Takeaways from Spurs Preseason Loss to Kings

The NBA season is right around the corner, but preseason play is here. The San Antonio Spurs kicked off their preseason on Thursday night on the road against the Sacramento Kings. Unfortunately the Spurs fell short 95-92. Manu Ginobili, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Boris Diaw all missed the game with rest. Coach Gregg Popovich missed the game as well.

There were many things to take away from the loss, some positive and some negative.

–LaMarcus Aldridge and David West Make Spurs Debut

The debut of big men LaMarcus Aldridge and David West didn’t go the way Spurs fans hoped. Aldridge went 3 for 10 from the field, finishing with eight points. West finished 2 for 5 from the field, only scoring five points. Don’t expect Aldridge to be quiet, when the Spurs take on the Miami Heat on Monday.

–Kyle Anderson had a strong game

Kyle Anderson came off the bench and made an impact right away. The 22-year-old forward went for 15 points (6-9 fg), four rebounds, and three assists. Anderson looked like he actually had a clue on defense, as he even had two steals. A big positive is that he went 1 for 2 from three point range. If Anderson continues to extend his range, he can be a special player.

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–Kawhi Leonard in midseason form

With Parker, Ginobili, Diaw, and Duncan out, someone had to step up. That player was Kawhi Leonard. The 24-year-old wing finished with 16 points (5-10 fg), five rebounds, and three steals. Leonard only played 21 minutes, but his impact was off the charts.

Other things to Note:

–Jimmer Fredette finished 0 for 4 from the field in 11 minutes. He did have three assists and two rebounds.

–Jonathon Simmons went 1 for 6 from the field in 23 minutes. He did impress with five rebounds and four assists.

Next: LaMarcus Aldridge showed encouraging signs in debut