Blazers steal a page from Spurs’ playbook with latest free agent move

After facing the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, the Portland Trail Blazers appear to have taken a page or two out of the Silver and Black's playbook. In fact, the Blazers have become a stomping ground for former Spurs of late.

Former Spurs such as Drew Eubanks, Blake Wesley, and Sidy Sissoko have all found their way to the Blazers in recent years. Most recently, former Spur Tiago Splitter coached Portland in their postseason series against San Antonio.

Now comes news that Jeremy Sochan signed a training camp deal with Portland. It's clear that they have been picking up Spurs players, but is it a concerted effort or just coincidence?

Blazers steal a page from Spurs’ playbook with latest free agent move

The Blazers having had several former Spurs on their roster might be a coincidence, but it's clear that they are trying to build a defensive identity. Adding Sochan for the minimum could be a steal if they can put enough offense together to make a lineup featuring him work.

The Spurs couldn't, but if he were to land on the right team, i.e., the Blazers, then he could thrive. Another potential similarity between San Antonio and Portland is that both teams are stacked at point guard.

The Silver and Black boast a backcourt featuring De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper. On the other hand, the Blazers have Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, Ja Morant, and Scoot Henderson.

The Blazers are right to try and emulate the Spurs

While it may not be intentional, the Blazers are building a talented roster that shares some similarities with the Spurs. Being guard heavy allows them to mix and match and have at least two talented playmakers on the floor at all times.

Lillard and Morant are obviously offense-oriented guards. Meanwhile, Henderson and Holiday are both above-average defensive guards with offensive skills.

The big difference is that they don't have a star big man such as Victor Wembanyama. Instead, they feature forward Deni Avdija.

It may not be a perfect comparison, but the Blazers have become a landing spot for former Spurs of late. They have even taken a page out of San Antonio's playbook by featuring several starting point guards to help power their team. Sound familiar?

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