Former Champion Gets Honest About Vassell's Big Spurs Role

With Mitch Johnson fully taking over as the team's head coach, he would like to implement a winning system. In the modern NBA, wings are crucial to how successful teams play, especially if they are decent defenders and good shooters.

Vassell has all the tools to become a solid 3-and-D wing, and he can even generate scoring opportunities for himself. He is the ideal player for the Spurs, but he must assemble all the pieces and deliver. Former two-time champion with the Spurs, Matt Bonner, is a big Vassell believer.

Bonner Sees Vassell's Potential Impact

The Spurs have the talent to compete for a spot in the postseason. Wembanyama is the clear top star, but Fox is also an All-Star-level player. He has the playmaking chops to help the Spurs become a contender, and he is also a fantastic three-level scorer.

Reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle and second overall pick Dylan Harper are superb guard depth for Johnson. The Spurs possess top-end talent and a decent number of role players. Vassell is a happy medium between the top-end talent and role player, as he could potentially make a massive impact.

In the 2024-25 season, Vassell scored 16.3 points per game and 36.8% from three. It was a decent season, and he could further improve his efficiency when he has a full season with all the talented players on the Spurs. Bonner believes that Vassell could be a key player.

"One of my big keys to the Spurs' success? Devin Vassell. I think he's underrated, he's sneaky, super athletic on both ends of the floor. You just got to stay healthy, stay on the floor," Bonner said on SiriusXM Radio.

"When people look at their roster, they forget about him and like he's a really good player. He gives them a really good third scoring option that can go off and be that X-factor when they need it."

The Spurs Have The Potential To Become A Playoff Team

After a strong season with Johnson at the helm, the Spurs proved they could hang with the top teams. Of course, they fell off after Wembanyama's injury, but the pieces are there for them to be a top team again.

Fox, Wembanyama, and Castle are a strong core to build around. They also have Vassell, Harper, Keldon Johnson, and more serving as their supporting pieces. This team is one of the most underrated squads heading into the 2025-26 season.

Vassell should have a productive year, especially with the open shots he will have. Playing alongside Fox and Wembanyama will open doors for the Spurs wing, which could prove Bonner right with his prediction.