A long-time Spurs problem is getting worse by the game and it can't be ignored

The San Antonio Spurs have gotten off to a solid start in spite of a problem at a key position. The backup center has been a major problem spot, with them having to rely on that position more with star Victor Wembanyama missing five games thus far.

Although backup Zach Collins had gotten off to a strong start shooting from beyond the 3-point arc, he came back down to earth prior to being injured against the New Orleans Pelicans. After shooting 50% from three over the first two weeks of the season, he has gone just 2-16 from deep since. That regression has taken away his best skill and made him far less valuable to the Spurs.

The Spurs already have a problem with spacing, especially with the bench with Tre Jones, Blake Wesley, Keldon Johnson, and Stephon Castle when he rejoins the second unit. Having a big man who can't shoot playing along with those players exacerbates the problem, and the Spurs have often looked clunky as a result.

Playing with Charles Bassey wouldn't help that, but his offensive rebounding adds second possessions, helping to offset the team's shaky shooting. His rim protection is also helpful, giving them something that Collins doesn't provide.

The San Antonio Spurs must choose Charles Bassey over Zach Collins

Despite having far fewer opportunities, Bassey has had more good games than Collins. That includes an 11-point, 9-rebound, and 6-block performance against the Utah Jazz and a 16-point, 12-rebound, and 4-block performance against the New Orleans Pelicans. Bassey has just been better, and interim coach Mitch Johnson will soon need to make a change in the rotation.

Devin Vassell will likely soon return to the starting lineup, pushing Castle to the bench while Jeremy Sochan may also start even though he will hurt that lineup's spacing. On the plus side, having Harrison Barnes play with Jones, Castle, Johnson, and Bassey would at least add a good shooter to that unit.

The Spurs swapping out Collins for Bassey would solve a big weakness internally, though it would mean that one of their highest-paid players would be out of the rotation. One problem at a time. 

Overall, Collins' disappointing play has led to issues in the second unit, and while he will still have chances to prove himself, he hasn't done so yet. The Spurs fortunately have a solution on the roster in Bassey, though his overtaking Collins leads to larger questions about Collins' future with the team.