We expect Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs to show improvement from last season with a better record in the Western Conference. The Spurs finished with a 22-60 record, ranking 23rd in points (112.1) scored and 24th in defense (118.6). With the Spurs adding some key additions including Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes, they should be better on both ends of the court and we could see the rise of Victor Wembanyama as a bonafide superstar in 2024-25.
Tier 1: Superstars
Victor Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama is the face of the San Antonio Spurs and one of the most anticipated young stars in the NBA. After a promising rookie season, the 7’4” phenom is expected to take a significant leap in his second year, potentially emerging as a bona fide superstar. With his unique combination of size, skill, and defensive prowess, Wembanyama has the potential to dominate on both ends of the floor and could be the key to the Spurs’ resurgence, meaning this could be the big man’s breakout season as an elite player.
Tier 2: All-Stars
None
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
None
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Chris Paul, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes, Zach Collins
Veteran point guard Chris Paul brings leadership, experience, and playmaking to the Spurs. Though in the twilight of his career, Paul remains one of the best floor generals in the league, capable of orchestrating the offense and mentoring younger players. His presence is expected to significantly impact the Spurs’ development and could elevate Wembanyama’s offensive game as a lob catcher and pick-and-roll partner. At 39 years old, Paul averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per game so he still has some juice left.
Devin Vassell has developed into one of the Spurs’ most reliable two-way players. Known for his defensive ability and improving offensive game, Vassell averaged 19.5 points per game last season, showcasing his potential as a future star. His ability to shoot from deep and defend multiple positions makes him a vital piece in San Antonio’s plans. Hopefully, Vassell can reach Tier 3 this season because the Spurs need more offense outside of their French superstar.
Keldon Johnson is a versatile forward who has shown flashes of brilliance on both ends of the court. Last season, he averaged 15.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, emerging as a primary scoring option. Johnson’s physicality, scoring ability, and defensive toughness make him a solid player for the Spurs moving forward unless the right player comes along and he could be used as trade bait.
Harrison Barnes is a seasoned veteran who brings championship experience and versatility to the Spurs. As a capable scorer and reliable defender, Barnes averaged 12.2 points and 3.0 rebounds per game last season. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor adds stability to the Spurs’ roster.
Zach Collins solidified his role as the Spurs’ go-to power forward in the starting lineup and off the bench last season, averaging 11.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game. Known for his toughness and defensive intensity, Collins is a key piece in San Antonio’s frontcourt. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim makes him a valuable asset alongside Wembanyama.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Stephon Castle, Tre Jones
Stephon Castle is a promising young guard who was selected No. 4 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. Known for his size, scoring ability, and potential as a playmaker, Castle will look to develop under the guidance of Chris Paul and could be a future contributor to the Spurs. No doubt, the Spurs feel like Castle is their answer but won’t rush him in that role just yet.
Tre Jones is a steady presence at the point guard position, providing solid defense, playmaking, and leadership off the bench. Last season, he averaged 10.0 points and 6.2 assists per game, demonstrating his ability to run the offense and contribute in key moments. However, it is unlikely that Jones will beat out the other point guards for the majority of minutes next season.
Tier 6: Bench
Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley, Julian Champagnie, Charles Bassey, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Malachi Flynn, BJ Boston
These players round out the Spurs’ depth, offering a mix of youth, athleticism, and potential. Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley are young guards who will continue to develop their games. The former averaged 9.2 points per game last season but there is added talent at the guard position which means Branham will need to do more to get into the team. The same goes for Blake Wesley who only appeared in 14.4 minutes per game last season.
Julian Champagnie, Charles Bassey, and Sandro Mamukelashvili provide frontcourt depth as youngsters but probably won’t earn enough minutes. Champagnie averaged 6.8 points per game last season and will hope to become a Tier 5 player for most of next season. Bassey and Mamukelashvili will likely be a part of the bench next year.
Malachi Flynn and BJ Boston add guard depth, each capable of contributing in limited roles. Flynn averaged 5.5 points per game last season while Boston added 5.2 points per game so they will shore up the bench more than play significant roles.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
