This unorthodox bench lineup could be pure fun for Spurs

Unmatched Two-Way Versatility

We already alluded to this in the previous scoring section, but more and more, teams are looking for players with size that can dribble, pass, and shoot. The most advantageous strength of this group is that everyone is capable of bringing at least two—if not all three—of those things to the table in any given game. 

For their size, Branham, Cissoko, and Mamukelashvili are all more than capable of putting the ball on the floor and controlling the offense. Cissoko, Branham, Mamukelashvili, and even Keldon Johnson are all good to great passers. Branham, Johnson, and Mamukelashvili can all shoot from deep, and if Bassey can slowly return to his production from Western Kentucky, he belongs on that short list as well.

That versatility extends to transition and the defensive end of the floor, where this group brings quite a bit of size, athleticism, and feel for the game. Ultimately, with time and more experience playing together, they’re capable of being a unit that will make the game easier for each other while making it as difficult as possible for their opponents. Even if it takes a bit of time and working out a few kinks along the way, that kind of a group has exactly the type of upside you want in a bench unit, particularly when it’s a lineup that doesn’t feature more established veteran players.

As the season approaches and anticipation builds around the Spurs and their new young star, I’d urge fans not to forget about some of the other young pieces they’ll have at their disposal coming off the bench, and I urge fans to look out for this lineup in particular.