Spurs coach Gregg Popovich is becoming an old hand at introducing new players, even starters, into his contending teams.

So far, he's done just fine.

A couple of seasons ago the first-time starters were Tony Parker, Steve Smith and Bruce Bowen.

Last year, Stephen Jackson began his starting stint at shooting guard next to Parker, and the team won a title.

This time around Rasho Nesterovic begins his tenure as the starting center behind power forward Tim Duncan, and Manu Ginobili begins his starting role status at Jackson's slot.

Popovich made his run at bringing Jackson back into the fold, but Jackson most likely will wear a new uniform next season.

"It would be very difficult to bring Jack back into the mix now," Popovich said. "We had conversations (with Jackson). I told him we wanted him back and he said he wanted to be back. But apparently he got some different advice somewhere else.