3 Former San Antonio Spurs thriving elsewhere to start the season
3.) Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker IV had a tumultuous tenure with the Spurs, struggling to live up to his first-round billing as he never found a consistent role within the offense. Limited minutes and a crowded backcourt had an undeniable impact on his confidence. All the second-guessing and indecision made him an erratic second-string scorer, and San Antonio ultimately let him walk for nothing during the 2022 offseason.
After an up-and-down campaign with LeBron James and the Lakers, Lonnie inked a one-year league minimum contract with Brooklyn this summer. Though the 24-year-old swingman started the season with little fanfare, he has been among the most effective sixth men in the NBA, averaging 15.7 points per game while shooting 49.7% from the field and providing the shorthanded Nets with a spark plug.
The Silver and Black have one of the least efficient bench units in the association, and they could use someone like Lonnie. Despite having dependable deadeyes like Doug McDermott and Cedi Osman in the rotation, there is no doubt Walker could breathe life into the offense with his ludicrous athleticism. Can Malaki Branham shake his slump and stop fans from dreaming of a reunion with his predecessor?