Tim Duncan, a rookie who made the All-Defensive Second Team in his first season and graduated to the All-Defensive First Team in his second, was a defensive monster.
He was always known for his steady and mature defense.
The Celtics were interested in him because Auerbach was convinced he was the next Bill Russell — or rather, a Bill Russell with a stronger offense.
The media said that Duncan's defensive level in the first two years of his career was something O'Neal could never catch up with in his lifetime.
As a result, such a guy who peaked defensively from his debut, in front of Roger, became as comical as David Robinson in the 1995 playoffs and Joel Embiid 15 years later.
Of course, Duncan didn't suddenly become foolish. He was fooled around because Roger made every move threatening on offense.
Duncan had to block.
It wasn't just Duncan who was humiliated; the entire Spurs' championship filter shattered during these plays.
