2018-19 NBA Season Preview: San Antonio Spurs

Opportunities and Threats

Spurs' success depends on LaMarcus and DeMar's partnership

After a not-so-great 2016-17 season, LaMarcus Aldridge came back storming and averaged 23.1 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in the last season. He was also named an NBA All-Star last season and showed up in the absence of Kawhi Leonard. Aldridge, who signed a 3-year contract extension with the organization in 2017, will be the centerpiece for their success.

Playing with a lot of new guys in the much stacked west, Aldridge will have added responsibilities and if he remains consistent with his performances, Spurs can really make some noise this season. With DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge on the team, the Spurs have two of the best mid-range shooters in the game. Last season, they both ranked top 5 in field-goal made from that zone. Much of the team's success this season depends on the partnership between DeRozan and Aldridge.

The reason Aldridge left Portland was because he wanted to be the face of the organization and when Kawhi entered, he became the face of the team and Aldridge became the second-option. With Kawhi injured last season, Aldridge became the first-option and averaged 23.1 points. Spurs' success this season depends on whether LaMarcus will be willing to allow DeRozan to be the go-to guy. Coach Pop will have a tough task ahead to make sure this new team performs to the expectations.