Spurs have turned doubters into believers but they’re not going far enough

I cannot hammer the point in enough; this Spurs team is serious, and it's time you give them your respect. The evidence has continued to pile on, but what the Spurs have done recently is the cherry on top. Over the past few weeks, without Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, the Spurs have completely flipped the narrative.

Once looked at as a team that would maybe sneak into the playoffs and maybe win a playoff game or two, they are now poised a true championship contenders. But some would disagree. In particular, the people over at Bleach Report have a different opinion. Despite their 16-7 start to the year, they are still getting the short end of the stick.

In an article that re-predicts teams' records after the first two months of hoops, author Grant Hughes showed some disrespect. Placing the Spurs at a measly 48-34, it is clear that the consensus is still low on San Antonio. While the Spurs have certainly gained some authenticity thus far, it hasn't gone far enough.

The Spurs are a shoo-in for 50+ wins

If you believe this Spurs team won't win 50 or more games this season, I don't know what to tell you. The writing is on the wall, and it is impossible to deny. You can come back and destroy me if they don't. Barring an unforeseen disaster, of course. Yet still, such an event has already happened, and here the Spurs are at 16-7.

The Spurs' all-around team efforts without Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle tell you everything you need to know. Earning eight wins in their 11-game stretch without Area 51, the Spurs are proving that they have an incredible foundation. If they can win like this without them, then how would they not tack on 40 more wins?

The Spurs have the recipe to prolonged success

Before the season, it was obvious that this team would have regular-season success. Two of the greatest determining factors of success over 82 games are depth and defense. The Spurs reign supreme in both catergories. They have all of the pieces they need to sustain through injuries and outwork opposing teams.

Both of these Spurs' strengths will only improve once Wemby returns. The Spurs will return to being a top-five defense in the NBA, and their depth will look even better as players such as Luke Kornet and Devin Vassell return to their usual roles. Things are only going to get better from here.

If I were a betting man, I would be looking at every avenue to put my money on this Spurs team finishing towards the top of the conference. A playoff appearance is now a lock, and 50+ wins is not only on the table but highly likely. The team's outlook has transformed in the blink of an eye. I hope you are catching up.