3 realistic goals for San Antonio Spurs in 2021 NBA Playoffs

PORTLAND, OREGON - MAY 08: Head coach Gregg Popovich of the San Antonio Spurs motions a play during the second quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on May 08, 2021 in Portland, Oregon. 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 Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

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2. A proper sendoff for the two veterans

Both DeRozan and Gay are unrestricted free agents following the conclusion of the season. Neither is a Spurs legend, exactly, but both are notable veterans in the game who have played hard down in San Antonio.

The Spurs want to get younger, and that almost surely means moving on from the veteran pair this summer. Gay will turn 35 in August, and DeRozan will turn 32 earlier the same month. However, there is no reason why they can’t have some fun with an upset in the play-in tournament.

It’s a long shot to say the Spurs can win two play-in games and then take down the Utah Jazz as the No. 8 seed. Going with the first goal, winning even one play-in game can give each veteran a nice sendoff as they look to continue their respective careers elsewhere.

The young core in San Antonio has plenty of time for success and can learn behind the veterans a few more times before major roster changes are made.

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