Crucial training camp battle stands between Carter Bryant and a breakout season

Training camp doesn't start for another two months, but San Antonio Spurs wing Carter Bryant has a big battle ahead of him. Bryant is currently projected to be third on the Spurs' small forward depth chart behind Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson.

He has a tall task ahead of him and will have to beat out two of the longest-tenured Spurs, but he still has a path to a role next season. Johnson could be entering the last season of his long career with the Spurs.

And after an awful playoff showing, he could be vulnerable to a training camp battle. Johnson might not lose his role immediately, but with him entering the final year of his contract, Bryant's role could increase.

Training camp battles stand between Carter Bryant's breakout season

The Spurs likely see Bryant as the future at small forward. On the other hand, they are unlikely to bring Johnson back beyond next season. Therefore, it wouldn't make much sense to play Johnson at the expense of Bryant.

Given that Bryant had a solid playoff showing, he should be getting steady minutes next season. However, the reality is that he will be playing behind Vassell and Johnson, at least at first.

Even with him third on the depth chart, Coach Mitch Johnson could still play him in a consistent, albeit small, role off the bench. That would give Bryant the opportunity to make a case for increased minutes.

Actually, by the end of next season, I expect him to be a regular in the Spurs rotation.

Keldon Johnson could stand in the way of a Carter Bryant breakout season

What that means for Johnson is still up in the air. I have a hard time believing that the Spurs will trade him in what will likely be his final season with the team.

If a deal comes along that is impossible to refuse, then San Antonio might be willing to move Johnson. Then again, I could see the Spurs holding on to him and using him sparingly during the remainder of the regular season and during the playoffs.

Hopefully, in that scenario, the Silver and Black will send Johnson off with a championship while Bryant thrives in an expanded role.

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