Steve Nash was traded back to Phoenix in 2004 and since then the point guard has won two MVPs and led the Suns to the playoffs five of the last six seasons.
But the Spurs have ousted the crafty floor general from the postseason three times and once again Tim Duncan & Co. stand in the way of Nash’s elusive title.
This time though it seems like the story might have a different ending, as Phoenix heads to San Antonio with a 2-0 series lead.
Both teams have changed personnel over the years, but the stars remain the same. So what’s the difference this season?
Phoenix remains one of the most efficient teams in the league and led the NBA in scoring this season, nothing drastically different there.
But the Spurs have taken a step back defensively. San Antonio allowed 96.3 points a game this season — nearly six more than they averaged in the previous three postseason meetings.
Duncan made his 13th All-Defensive team this season, but he also posted a career-low in blocks. And Bruce Bowen is no longer on the perimeter doing anything imaginable to frustrate opponents.
San Antonio may still have the “Big Three” but the team’s personality has changed. With offensive-minded role players like Richard Jefferson, George Hill and Matt Bonner, the Spurs averaged more than 100 points for the first time since 1996. They also allowed opponents to shoot 45.2 percent this season; five of the eight remaining playoff teams were better (and the Suns were tied with them).
San Antonio is playing at a faster pace and the more up-tempo style is playing right into the hands of the Suns.
