“They had a tough night”.
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If Leonard doesn’t get injured like he did last season, Aldridge keeps doing his thing which is a combination of his Portland days and as a more talented Tim Duncan than he’s ever had in the frontcourt since David Robinson and the defense keeps being the best in the league, it’s hard not to think of the Spurs as the best alternative out there to the Warriors dominance. Somewhat obscured by the Golden State Warriors eclipse, the Spurs are off to the second-best start in franchise history and they are undefeated at home.
San Antonio wouldn’t be where they are without the help of their “Big 3”, but the group no longer includes the team’s most important player.
The Spurs are now holding teams to a league lowest 91.8 points per 100 possessions and league lowest 87.9 points per game.
Forward LaMarcus Aldridge and guard Tony Parker added 18 points apiece in the lopsided win for the steam-rolling Spurs.
Last season’s trip was among the closest as the Wizards lost 101-92 after being within three points with five minutes to play. Their 37-point victory also pushed the Spurs past the Golden State Warriors (24-1) for highest average margin of victory.
In other key games, Atlantic Division leader Toronto had its four-game winning streak ended by IN, the Los Angeles Clippers defeated Detroit with a 3-pointer with 12 seconds remaining IN overtime, and Miami took a share of the Southeast Division lead with a win over slumping Atlanta.
San Antonio shot 56 per cent from the field, out-rebounded Utah 48-32 and had 21 fast-break points to 12 for the Jazz. Leonard 7-10 from the field and also 6-6 from the line. The Spurs extended that lead to 81-43 before beginning to empty their bench.
The first meeting was one of five games the Spurs have allowed 100 points. Wall averaged 27.3 points and 10.9 assists through the first eight games of the month but Wittman was less than thrilled with his shot selection against the Grizzlies as he attempted seven 3-pointers.
Bonner hit two 3-pointers early in the fourth and received a huge ovation and cheers from teammates after he made a behind-the-back dribble and spin move for a highlight basket.
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But it was a weak first half from the Jazz that set the tone.
