Golden State Warriors: Exposing each Play-In team’s weakness

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 15: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 15, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 15: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 15, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

San Antonio Spurs’ weakness: 3-Point Shooting

The San Antonio Spurs have been trailing behind the rest of the league for years when it comes to shooting 3-pointers. They’ve consistently ranked towards the bottom of the NBA in 3-point attempts and this season is no different.

At just 28.6 attempts per game. the Spurs shoot the fewest 3-pointers in the association. This is nearly half the amount Utah attempts per game (43) and far below the Warriors who are at 38.7 attempts.

The Spurs have good reason to avoid the 3-point line. They shoot just 35.2 percent from deep, ranking 23rd in the NBA. With limited shooters like DeMar DeRozan and Dejounte Murray leading them in scoring, it is not hard to see why they don’t jack up 3-pointers.

This is good news for the Dubs as they have the best 3-point shooting player of all time. They also rank fifth as a team in 3-pointers made and eighth in percentage. If this game turns into a shootout, Golden State will have a clear advantage.