Forecasting the unpredictable San Antonio Spurs' starting lineup

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Devin Vassell, (Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports)

San Antonio Spurs Shooting Guard: Devin Vassell

Devin Vassell began starting for the Spurs after Derrick White was traded last season and has played well in that new role. As a result, it’s a safe assumption that he’ll continue to start at shooting guard next season.

Moreover, with a lack of scoring options, Vassell really has a chance to expand his offensive game. In fact, he’ll likely be the second-best offensive player in the starting lineup. Having a player who averaged just 12.3 points per game last year as the second option might seem like a cause for concern. Fortunately, he’s a much better offensive player than he’s shown thus far, and he could realistically average around 18 points per game next year.

Actually, he averaged 17.8 points per game by bombing away from outside in the final seven games of the season, the play-in game included. He accomplished that by attempting a ridiculous 8.4 threes per game and hitting an outrageous 44% of those shots. That hot shooting obviously won’t continue, especially without the playmaking needed to set him up for open shots.

Having said that, Vassell’s shown the ability to shoot off the dribble and on the move, so he should be able to continue firing away from outside. Since the Spurs don’t have a lot of shooting, let alone above-average ones, Vassell will probably fill that role while also mixing in strong drives to the basket and pull-up jumpers to help diversify his scoring attack.

Defensively, Vassell will also play a big role and may be tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best wing every night. He’s more than capable of doing so, plus he’s a terrific help defender, whose knack for stealing and deflecting passes should help the Spurs get out in transition. Overall, Vassell is a safe bet to start and could prove to be the second most important player in the starting five.

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