OKC Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs, 2019-20 team preview

Precious little roster turnover is the primary reason for the oddsmakers’ skepticism.

San Antonio drafted three rookies (watch for one to shock everyone as the next great star). Trey Lyles was added via free agency and DeMarre Carroll via trade.

The only player of substance exiting is Davis Bertans who was part of a three-team deal involving the Nets and Warriors.

The key addition isn’t a new player but a returning player. Dejounte Murray who is back after missing all last season with a torn ACL. Sophomore Lonnie Walker is also back after playing in only 17 games due to a meniscus tear last season. Their returns are particularly important as it will free up some of the extra duties DeMar DeRozan carried last year.

Also of note, most former Spurs players say it takes a full year in Pops system to feel comfortable so the combination of those factors should bode well for the shooting guard.

And the biggest news is the Big Fundamental, Tim Duncan joins the sidelines as part of the coaching staff.

Players Added:

Free Agency:

F: Trey Lyles

Trade:

F: DeMarre Carroll (trade with Nets)

Rookies:

F: Keldon Johnson (No. 29)
F: Luka Samanic (No. 19)
G: Quinndary Weatherspoon (No. 49)

Departing Players:

Free Agents:

F: Dante Cunningham (unrestricted)
F: Ben Moore (unrestricted)
F: Quincy Pondexter (unrestricted)
F/C: Donatas Motiejunas (unrestricted)

Trade:

F: Davis Bertans (traded to Wizards)