The Spurs season is so close to beginning you can almost hear the “Go Spurs Go” chants already. It’s been an exciting preseason with several players showcasing the work they put in during the offseason. San Antonio is poised to take a massive step forward if they can build off the positive signs they’ve shown so far.
They’ve played four exhibition games without a major piece of the puzzle in Devin Vassell, and they’ll have to finish the preseason without him. However, there have been no reports of any setbacks in his recovery and the Spurs have already confirmed he’ll be re-evaluated a week into the season.
It won’t be long before the team’s best perimeter player is back in the lineup, and when he gets there, expect him to get busy early. The whole team has been playing with a ton of energy. Vassell undoubtedly wants to get out there and be a part of it, and apparently, he’s more ready to go than ever.
Vassell’s presence will make Spurs lineups more efficient
Zach Collins, Charles Bassey, and Jeremy Sochan have recovered from the ailments from last season. Vassell will be the last domino for a fully healthy San Antonio team, which is something we haven’t seen enough of in a long time. Bassey was injured early last season, and both Vassell and Bassey were hurt at the end of the previous season.
When the full roster is ready to go, Coach Popovich can slide everyone into the best spots to maximize the efficiency of each lineup. Whether he takes the place of Julian Champagnie or Harrison Barnes, Dev’s more dynamic game will allow the Spurs more options for which sets they can run.
Having another playmaker on the floor who’s also a threat to score from anywhere and go off for 20+ points will be a welcome addition. He’s been missed through the exhibition games, but without him, the team has looked good, making the thought of his re-insertion even more thrilling.
The anticipation is building to see him on the floor with Chris Paul and running pick-and-rolls with Victor Wembanyama again. His talent will allow Chris Paul to play off-ball sometimes, releasing some pressure from the 39-year-old point guard.
The benefits of his return are innumerable, and the excitement to see him splash his first bucket is immeasurable. Fortunately, it won’t be long now.