San Antonio Spurs: 4 Pros and Cons of a possible John Collins addition

Mar 16, 2021; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Jae’Sean Tate (8) looks for a shot as Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins (20) pressures him during the first half at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Michael Wyke/POOL PHOTOS-USA TODAY Sports

John Collins brings potential to San Antonio Spurs with defense and rebounding

While the San Antonio Spurs have vastly improved on defense compared to the past two seasons, the team still suffers from inconsistent bouts with defensive lapses. While not considered a defensive stalwart, there is a lot of room for growth for John Collins, especially with his physical gifts. Between his athleticism, frame, and motor, he’s got the potential to be a great defender.

Given his bounce, it’s a downer to see that he only averages a block per game in his career. However, much of that is traceable from Atlanta’s porous defenses in recent years. Coming to a team that prides itself on defense, with the teachings of Gregg Popovich, will almost certainly help unlock his defensive upside and in turn, the team’s ceiling as a point-preventing squad.

Another one of John Collins’ biggest strengths is his stellar rebounding. Even though he can find himself undersized against more physically imposing matchups, he is relentless on the boards. In fact, a lot of his points are a result of second-chance buckets.

The young forward has already proven himself to be a nightly 20-10 threat. The only reason why his numbers are down compared to last year’s breakout campaign is because of Capela manning the middle. Together, they are the reasons why the Hawks are 4th and 5th in second-chance points and offensive rebounds per game.

Look at Collins’ persistence on the boards here. Even if Capela, a monster rebounder, is already lingering in the paint, he aggressively pursues the second chance opportunity. Popovich squads usually do not encourage offensive rebounds in order to prioritize transition defense, but having a threat on the offensive boards will help clean up sometimes inconsistent finishing of the young guns.

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