The San Antonio Spurs, despite an encouraging start to the season, face scrutiny after a recent loss to the Phoenix Suns, leading to discussions about upgrading key roster positions. In particular, guard Devin Vassell’s performance has been thrust into the spotlight.
Vassell, who has generally performed well, has not produced at the level expected given his substantial contract. He is owed $105.6 million over five years, with approximately $27 million per year remaining on his deal. The soaring salary cap has contributed to inflated contracts league-wide, but the Spurs may not have anticipated Vassell becoming merely a competent starting guard when they signed him to his extension.
While Vassell is a capable player, he currently does not rank as an above-average starter. However, he has managed to avoid becoming a liability on the court, which preserves his trade value. His sizeable contract would facilitate moving him to match salaries for a potential star acquisition. As the Spurs continue to build a more expensive roster, it appears increasingly likely that they will look to part ways with Vassell.
The team has internal replacements that could step into a starting role. Julian Champagnie, for instance, could be signed at a lower cost, and while he may not match Vassell’s scoring capability, he does offer solid shooting and greater defensive versatility. Another option is Stephon Castle, who could emerge as Vassell’s long-term successor if the Spurs can effectively implement a three-guard lineup.
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This season, Vassell has shown improvements defensively, making timely plays in critical moments, including generating turnovers in fourth-quarter situations. His three-point shooting, while not quite rebounding to impressive 2022-23 levels, remains above league average, with an average of 6.9 attempts per game. In light of the Spurs’ limited shooting options, his role as a high-volume shooter becomes even more crucial.
However, his usage rate has plummeted to its lowest mark since his rookie season, effectively relegating him to a third or even fourth scoring option alongside emerging talents like Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. Averaging around 14 points as a fourth option is reasonable, but with Vassell being compensated like an above-average starter, the financial reality does not align with his current contributions.
Given these dynamics, it may be prudent for the Spurs to evaluate their options regarding Vassell’s future. If he does not elevate his game to match his pay grade, the team could consider moving on from him in the near future, particularly with promising internal candidates ready to take his place.
