The San Antonio Spurs picked up an impressive NBA opening night victory over the visiting Orlando Magic. The Spurs won the game 123-97, taking total control in the second and third quarters as their stifling defense was too much for a young Magic team to overcome.
Seven different Spurs scored in double-figures, which is how they are going to be throughout the season offensively. For years, they ran a lot of their offense through DeMar DeRozan and LaMarcus Aldridge. Without a certified No. 1 go-to scorer, the Spurs could have a different leading scorer every night.
One player that was expected to be among that group is veteran power forward, Thaddeus Young. Young was acquired by San Antonio in the sign-and-trade deal that saw DeRozan end up with the Chicago Bulls.
Young is a steady veteran that can play either frontcourt spot and some small-ball center as well. Many people thought he would have a significant role with the Spurs, but at least on opening night, that was not the case.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: 3 Contenders That Should Pursue Trade For Spurs’ Thaddeus Young
The former Georgia Tech product was the only player to not play in the game against the Magic. Doug McDermott was tabbed as the starting power forward and even with Zach Collins sidelined, Young didn’t get on the floor.
Receiving a DNP-Coach’s Decision on opening night is not what anyone expected for Young. If there wasn’t an unknown injury, the explanation for him being held out could be that a trade is in the works.
At 33-years old, Young isn’t a fit for what the Spurs are doing. But, he is a great trade asset, as several contending teams would love to add him to their roster.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: 3 Contenders That Should Pursue Trade For Spurs’ Thaddeus Young
His versatility on the defensive end and point forward skills he showcased with the Bulls last season are something teams with championship aspirations would love to have. He was connected to several teams in the offseason; could one of them have emerged with a deal the San Antonio Spurs are seriously considering?
There are a lot of recently traded and signed restrictions that will be up in early November. We could see Thaddeus Young rack up the DNP’s until then and subsequently be traded once the deadline passes.
