Atlanta took advantage of LaMarcus Aldridge’s absence and their opponents’ decided indifference, dropping the Spurs to 0-3 in the preseason with a 100-86 victory Wednesday at Phillips Arena.
Aldridge sat out with back spasms after scoring 17 points in the Spurs’ loss at Miami on Monday. His new team struggled without him, eventually conceding the lead for good in the face of a 14-0 Hawks run during the third quarter. Kyle Korver sparked the surge with three 3-pointers.
Kawhi Leonard, the only starter to play more than 20 minutes, led the Spurs with 20 points and eight rebounds.