I know that Michael posted a Q&A with Jim Eichenhofer from Hornets.com, but I too have a Q&A to add! For the past year I’ve corresponded with Jim whenever the Hornets host the Spurs, answering some questions for the Rival Report, which appears on the front page of Hornets.com. I also participate in Southwest Division forums that feature writers from the other teams in our wonderful division. Anyways, I encourage you to check out the Rival Report. Here is just one of the questions as a teaser.
Hornets.com: The last time the Hornets saw the Spurs, San Antonio was celebrating on New Orleans’ home floor, having won Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals. For Hornets fans who have not watched many Spurs games early this season, what are some of the major differences between the ’07-08 team and the current one?
Thiessen: The Spurs are a model of consistency. Rarely do they make major changes from one season to the next, and for good reason. This year is no exception. This year’s Spurs team closely resembles last year’s with some small changes. Roger Mason and George Hill have added backcourt depth and both can score better than last year’s role players. However, this team still revolves around the Big Three and the identity and look of it is the same. Expect a focus on defense, a slower-paced game, some helter-skelter plays by Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan quietly controlling the game.