Spurs are giving fans a special gift and it's not even Christmas yet

The Spurs have been in offensive purgatory for what feels like forever now. Ever since talented players like DeMar DeRozan and Dejounte Murray left the organization, putting the ball in the basket has been a challenge for the Silver and Black. They haven't had anything to hang their hats on—an identity they can be consistent with—but things are changing in Alamo City.

The gift of efficiency is nothing to scoff at, and San Antonio has been gracious with it in the month of November. Last season, the team finished 26th in offensive rating. The only thing they did well was pass the ball, but even that wasn't perfect since turnovers were a huge issue. But over the past six games—a small sample size, but a relevant one—they've turned over a new leaf in most areas.

The Spurs are 13th in offensive rating in November

It's hard to believe because the last time the Spurs were toward the top of the league in offense, Stephon Castle was a freshman in high school. San Antonio hasn't cracked the top 15 in that category since the 2018-19 season. Adding Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes has helped immensely, but the young players must be given credit for improving in the offseason.

The guys got off to a rocky start, but that should have been expected. In fact, the players and Coach Pop told everyone that it would take time to get the ball rolling. Not everyone played in all of the preseason games; Devin Vassell was set to miss time, and the implementation of new pieces suggested they would be correct.

Before Vassell returned, the Spurs had started to turn a corner, but now that he's back, the potential for greater efficiency can only increase.

Since November 1, San Antonio is ranked 12 in 3-point percentage (37.1%) and 8 in field goal percentage (48.2%). They're still being held back by their turnovers (16.8 per game), ranking 26, leading to fewer field goals and free throw attempts. They're ranked 28 and 29 in those respective stats.

Self-inflicted mistakes are keeping this team from elevating to a top-ten offense in the league. Even their assists per night have increased (28.2), getting back to the true way of Spurs basketball. No matter how much the NBA changes, it will always be a better decision to give up a good shot for a great shot. The ball has energy, and when it moves, everyone is more engaged.

Watching the Spurs splash threes at a high rate is a welcome change the fan base must be thrilled to see. The best part is knowing they can still improve with Tre Jones on the mend. In the final three months of last season, Jones shot 37.9% from deep.

An offensive juggernaut has been sleeping in San Antonio, and it's starting to stir. There's been a lot of talk about the fear Victor Wembanyama's emergence should strike in the rest of the league, but if the entire team is going to emerge with him, playing the Spurs will be downright terrifying.