Apr 15, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan (21) is defended by New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Spurs 108-103 and earned the 8th seed in the Western Conference Playoffs. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

March 30: @ San Antonio Spurs

The fourth and final time the Spurs play the Pelicans next season could spell the end of an era.

Though he appears to be able to play forever, Tim Duncan’s illustrious career may finally be nearing its end. If the Spurs and Pelicans do not match up in the postseason, this will be the final time New Orleans plays against the Big Fundamental.

For New Orleans, nearly two decades of frustrating loss after frustrating loss to the Duncan led Spurs could finally be coming to an end. Even though a few extra wins will be nice, something about the Duncan-less Spurs will just not feel right.

Dec 31, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs power forward Tim Duncan (21) shoots the ball over New Orleans Pelicans power forward Ryan Anderson (33) during the second half at AT&T Center. The Spurs won 95-93 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

Many rivalries, like the Saints and Falcons for example, can get pretty nasty (though there are some perfectly justifiable reasons ).

The division rivalry between New Orleans and San Antonio, at least from my perspective, is founded on respect.

Duncan’s Spurs have always played the game the right way, and they have played it better than most teams could ever dream of.

Sure losses are still frustrating, but I am not filled with hate towards the Spurs after a loss. 99% of the time, it is just admiration (the other 1%: “Come on, Asik..” )

I would love to see the Pelicans pick up a win in San Antonio.

With the season winding down towards the end of March, every game counts, especially in the tightly contested Western Conference.

However, seeing an all time great in Tim Duncan face off one last time against a future all timer in Anthony Davis should be enough reason to tune in……