Devin Vassell's starting spot with the Spurs isn't as safe as it once was

Despite a strong regular season and terrific playoff run, San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell's starting role is far from a lock. It's surprising that a player who averaged 13 points, shot nearly 38% from three, and played stellar defense during the postseason isn't guaranteed to start next season.

However, it underscores just how deep San Antonio is. The Spurs obviously have a star in the making in Dylan Harper and they could look to start him next season. In doing so, they'd start De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Harper together, something fans have been clamoring for.

Ironically, the Spurs have shied away from playing their three-point guards together. However, they did in the NBA Finals. Had it not been for Fox melting down against the New York Knicks, the Spurs might be champions, and Harper might not start the season coming off the bench.

Devin Vassell's starting spot with the Spurs isn't as safe as it once was

San Antonio still has some work to do if they want to start their guard trio. They have yet to solve what to do when two of them play off-ball. Obviously, spotting up and hitting open threes is the easy answer.

Both Castle and Harper made big strides as shooters during the second half of last season and in the playoffs. Harper was also surprisingly effective crashing the offensive glass, making up for the lack of spacing by feasting on second-chance opportunities.

If both Castle and Harper can have that shooting improvement carry over to next season, then San Antonio could make the three guard trio work. That would be bad news for Vassell who may be forced to come off the bench.

Then again, San Antonio probably wouldn't start Harper over Vassell to begin the year and may instead work their way up to it.

Devin Vassell will still be integral part of the Spurs next season

Even if he were to come off the bench at some point next season, make no mistake, Vassell is still a crucial member of the Spurs. He is arguably their best all around shooter, and was impactful defensively last season.

He also can score in multiple ways and might actually thrive in a microwave role with the second unit. Whether he's starting or coming up the bench, he could still be a part of the closing lineup with those three, and Wembanyama proving the Spurs with much-needed spacing.

Either way, Vassell will still play a big role on the Spurs next season. It's just not a guarantee that he'll be a starter all year with Harper waiting in the wing to replace him.

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