Spurs have reached the most difficult stretch of an easy schedule

The Spurs have officially clinched their entrance into the postseason. To get there, they have had to battle some of the NBA's toughest challengers. At every step of the way, they have held strong and stuck to their guns. Without a doubt, San Antonio has earned their right to play playoff hoops.

After coming out victorious from a tough stretch, things are going to get a whole lot easier. As of March 22, the Spurs have the 9th-easiest remaining schedule, according to Tankathon. However, while many see this as a time to sit back and relax, I believe that it is their most important stretch of the season.

The Spurs can make a play for the first seed

The Spurs have been absolutely rolling lately. They have only lost two games since February began and have planted themselves among the best in the NBA. As it currently stands, they are only three games out of the first seed in the Western Conference. Are you trying to tell me that they won't be gunning for it?

There are a load of advantages that come with the first seed. For one, as the top seed, the Spurs would hopefully avoid the pesky Phoenix Suns in the first round. Although San Antonio would be widely favored in this series, it would not be easy. The Silver and Black have notably struggled against the Suns this season and nearly lost to them again amid this current hot streak.

Secondly, home-court advantage is huge. With the one seed, the Spurs would guarantee themselves home-court advantage for the entire postseason. If you have ever been to a Spurs game, you would know that it gets loud. The crowd often fuels the team and energizes the players into becoming their best selves. Having this for an entire run would make a world of difference.

The Spurs must stay hot entering the postseason

Along with securing the benefits of the one-seed, the Spurs have another advantage to gain. San Antonio has been the hottest shooting team in the league as of late. If they can keep this going, nobody will be able to stop them.

If the Spurs were to take their foot off the gas during the remaining 12 games, they might lose their fiery touch. Maintaining this current level of play would make San Antonio the most feared team in the entire NBA. As we have seen, when the Silver and Black play with their current mix of confidence and composure, they are unbeatable.

Instead of using the last 12 games as a break, the Spurs must use them as preparation. They should continue to dominate inferior teams and build on the season's successes. Staying ready and on fire entering the playoffs will pay its dividends.

Keep your eye out for what the Spurs do during the home stretch; it may indicate their postseason fate.