Spurs’ 3-point guard lineup hasn’t solved their big turnover problem yet

After making the NBA Finals last season, the San Antonio Spurs don't have many weaknesses, but turnovers remain a problem they have yet to fully solve. Despite having the fourth-fewest turnovers per game last season, the Spurs have a tendency to get careless with the ball at times.

That came to bite them in the NBA Finals. Victor Wembanyama had a costly turnover late in a tie game in Game 2 that resulted in the Spurs being down 2-0. In Game 4, the Spurs had nine second-half turnovers, which fueled a historic New York Knicks comeback.

All of that is to say that turnovers should still be a big concern. In their final two preseason games against the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings, they had a combined 40 turnovers. Granted, they didn't play their regular rotation, but when they did play, it was fairly sloppy.

Even with the Spurs starting three point guards in De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper, they were still sloppy. Despite that, there is reason for optimism.

Spurs’ 3-point guard lineup hasn’t solved their big turnover problem yet

The point guard trio has seldom played together, let alone started games, so there is going to be some sloppiness. The more important thing is that the Spurs are looking to play them together more.

Hopefully, with three above-average ball handlers starting, this team won't have the same problems with turnovers. Not just that, but they will look to push the pace, with three guards, and stretch five trailing behind for open threes.

Last season, Wembanyama and Castle led the team in turnovers, but by starting the point guard trio, Castle would have the ball less, as would Wembanyama. However, Castle could compensate by shooting more spot-up threes and attacking closeouts.

Playing 3-point guards could solve the Spurs' turnover problem

Wembanyama could also do more screen-and-rolls or pick-and-pops, allowing him to get easy points without having to handle the ball as much. Having those two players decrease their turnovers could help the Spurs get more offensive possessions. That's all the more important with three ball handlers and could boost their previously fifth-ranking offense.

It would also force teams to score against them in the half-court without transition opportunities. Having teams try and score against a set Spurs defense is reason enough for them to curb their turnover issues.

If the Spurs can adjust to their new starting lineup, hopefully the turnovers will drop like a stone. In doing so, San Antonio could maximize their offensive possessions, increasing their scoring efficiency while forcing teams to score against them in the half court. Therefore, reducing turnovers is crucial to San Antonio's championship hopes.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Follow