The Ringer NBA Show Are the Spurs the Biggest Winner of a Chaotic First Round? | Group Chat
27 snips
Apr 28, 2026 A deep dive into San Antonio’s shock run and the tactics that have them suddenly in title talks. Heated moments and strategy breakdowns around Jokic’s confrontation and Denver’s struggles. Close looks at Minnesota’s physical identity and surprising bench explosions. A wide take on Eastern chaos and how injuries are reshaping the playoff picture.
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Spurs Guard Depth Became Their Superpower
- The Spurs turned guard depth into a strategic strength that enabled massive comebacks.
- Dylan Harper's breakout game and De'Anthony Fox's late scoring, paired with Victor Wembanyama rim protection, created interchangeable lineups that sank Portland.
Wembanyama Creates Space Without A Runway
- Wembanyama's lob threat and rim protection forced Portland to junk their defense and created spacing advantages.
- Spurs plays like down screens, hard rolls, and backdoor cuts repeatedly exploited Portland's mismatches even when Wemby lacked a runway.
Mitch Johnson's Versatility Playbook
- San Antonio's lineup versatility let them match any opponent and cycle players without losing cohesion.
- Mitch Johnson frequently switched personnel (even three bigs or small-ball) and players like Champagny, Carter Bryant, and Keldon Johnson fit together seamlessly.