Although the major offseason festivities are over, the Spurs are not finished making moves. This summer, the Spurs drafted two electric rookies in Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant. In free agency, they acquired Boston Celtics playoff riser Luke Kornet to play behind Victor Wembanyama. Finally, to put a bow on a strong summer, the Spurs traded for journeyman big Kelly Olynyk from the Washington Wizards. In sum, the team has skyrocketed their trajectory and put themselves in a prime position to make a run for the playoffs. However, to truly become regular-season juggernauts, having depth is crucial.
Rounding out a now uniquely deep squad, the Spurs have signed point guard Lindy Waters III to a one-year deal.
Waters III has been a ready presence at every stop. Joining the Oklahoma City Thunder as an undrafted free agent in 2021, the Oklahoma State guard came out of the gate strong. Averaging eight points per game over 18.6 minutes per game, Waters III was a mainstay in the Thunder rotation. In his three-year stint with the Thunder, Waters III averaged 5.3 points, 0.7 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game while shooting an excellent 37.7% from beyond the arc.
Following a successful start to his career in Oklahoma City, Waters III ventured to Golden State in 2024. In the 2024-25 season, Waters III played valiantly on the Warriors’ bench before they shipped him off to Detroit in a midseason trade. Between the two squads, Waters III averaged 4.9 points, one assist, and 2.1 rebounds per game.
While Waters III has never been a long-term starter, he provides ready-to-go bench production and sparkplug shooting. He has maintained relevance in the NBA and has continued to force his way into the end of rotations. With a marvelous shooting stroke, the 27-year-old refuses to go away.
If there’s one critique about the Spurs’ newly loaded depth chart, it’s a lack of trustworthy shooting. Although the roster is full of capable shooters, it lacks any bona fide sharpshooters. In the 2024-25 season, the Spurs finished in the bottom half of NBA teams in three-point makes. Aware of the need, the Spurs add someone who has shot it well throughout their entire career.
While he is not expected to crack the Spurs’ rotation, Waters III will be held in reserve as a secret weapon. In times of need, which will most certainly happen, Waters III is equipped to enter the court and make it rain. As a point guard, Waters III is capable of stepping in and handling lead-guard duties. Should Dylan Harper miss time or eventually push his way into the starting lineup, Waters III can serve as the primary point guard off the bench.
Nonetheless, Waters III is as good a bottom-of-the-bench player as you will find. We have seen time and again that depth is important, and the addition of Waters III will enhance that. Don’t be surprised if he makes his way onto the court in 2025-26 and showcases his unique shooting touch.
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