It's not quite revenge, but the San Antonio Spurs blew out the New York Knicks in Summer League, picking up their first win in Las Vegas.
The San Antonio Spurs picked up their first win of Summer League on Saturday night, blowing out the New York Knicks 70-49.
It's not quite revenge for the NBA Finals, since the stage is nowhere near as bright and only Pacôme Dadiet, Mohamed Diawara, and Carter Bryant were on the rosters for the Finals. The Spurs lost all three games at the California Classic and then their Vegas opener to the Atlanta Hawks, so finally picking up a win should go a long way.
Bryant led the way for all scorers, with 19 efficient points. Rookie Tarris Reed Jr. added five points and nine rebounds, and both second-round picks had solid outings, as well.
Spurs Get Both Strengths and Weaknesses in Win
Bryant's ability to go seven-of-ten from the field, after not showing much shooting confidence in the regular season, should be a sight for sore eyes. Bryant's offense is an area of focus for the Spurs, and seeing him be ready to pull the trigger is promising.
On the other end of the floor, Reed excelled, securing five defensive rebounds and four on the offensive glass. While he failed to block a shot, his willingness to hit the floor, dive for loose balls, and play with physicality can't go understated. If he is to make the Spurs' roster, he will have to bring plenty of grit.
Even with a dominating win, it's not all peachy for the Spurs. Maliq Brown would have been a runaway first-round pick if his offense were anywhere as good as his defense, but instead, he looks like someone who does not want to touch the basketball.
In 24 minutes, he only took two shots. Granted, he made both of them, but the Spurs will need his offense to at least be passable if they are to offer him an NBA role.
While Summer League is ripe for overreaction and performances--both team and individual--don't carry much weight, the Spurs are hoping that they can round out their roster with some standouts this summer.
Barring another free agency move, expect one of the second-round picks to be offered a non-guaranteed contract for the season. Both Jayden Quaintance (who is yet to play) and Reed are signed to standard rookie contracts, but there is still room on the roster.
