Manu Ginobili returned to action on Monday, and with a staggering statement. Even though the Spurs were playing the Grizzlies, not playing since summer and coming into a game with not a ton of practice, and scoring 12 points in 11 minutes, is pretty impressive. With Ginobili returning to the bench, with Roger Mason being a hot shooter from the outside, and now ginobili an option off the bench who can provide even more hot shooting, depth is returning to normal in San Antonio. Despite a rocky 1-4 start, the Spurs were given plenty of opportunity to quickly get their rookies in gear and to gel into the Spurs' system. From there? Spurs are now 6-2. Much better. With Tony Parker returning soon, and George Hill now playing at an incredible level, how much more will this boost the team's strength? The team has added plenty of youth, and have grown significantly since the opening tip. I don't think this team is anywheres near the strength of the Celtics or Lakers, but getting closer to 100% healthy will make this team a dangerous playoff team once again. Yes, boastful with a 7-6 record, but you have to put the pieces together. Coach Pop has made some crazy moves in the past and present, and it somehow finds a way to work. Back in 2003, the Spurs had a similar sluggish start, and finished the season on a ridiculous run that ended with a title. So you never know. But for now, it is a Celtics-Lakers league.


Spurs on Monday came off a crushing win over the Utah Jazz, a 119-94 win. they followed that with another big win, leading by 17 at the end of 3, they had more garbage time, and finished with a 94-81 victory, and that was with Duncan struggling to score. Duncan shot only 6-18 from the floor for 14 points but his defense provided the boost, having 11 rebounds and 4 blocks. Mason shot 6-12 and finished with 18, and the rookie George Hill continues to impress, this time off the bench with 20 points. He is beginning to look like another Tony Parker. Spurs face the Bulls, and the Grizzlies at home followed by the Rockets at Houston the following night.