What does recent players-only meeting mean for young Spurs?

The San Antonio Spurs have spiraled into a nine-game losing streak and the worst record in the Western Conference across the last two and half weeks of their regular-season schedule. From their lackluster offense to countless defensive lapses, this rebuilding team has somehow managed to look worse than a year ago, a distressing sign considering they added an unparalleled prospect like Victor Wembanyama to their roster this summer.

Drafting a generational talent with the first overall pick was only step one in solving all their problems on both ends of the floor, and the youngsters are learning how to persevere through their lingering growing pains. While frustration has mounted for the Silver and Black, they have stuck together through the adversity. And Devin Vassell revealed the club held a players-only meeting before their latest collapse against the shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies.

This development may concern some fans, but multiple players disclosed they arranged this gathering to get on the same page as their teammates and form tighter bonds. Nobody is pointing accusatory fingers or blaming specific individuals for the disappointing shortcomings on the court. That collective maturity is reassuring, and Vassell told reporters he is prepared to step up as a leader following extended time on the sidelines with various injuries.

"Being injured is never a good thing, never is fun, but I got to step back, watch some of the games from another look and see where I can help and where I need to be at leadership-wise. And now I feel like coming back, I can be bigger in that leadership role, helping out at certain times."

Though the fourth-year swingman has shared the burden of go-to scoring duties with Wembanyama this season, Gregg Popovich has relied on Zach Collins, Keldon Johnson, and Cedi Osman to pick up the slack when Devin is out of commission. The good guys fell to the Los Angeles Clippers in an embarrassing blowout on Monday, but they will receive a much-needed boost as Vassell returns to the lineup for a rematch with Kawhi Leonard and crew tonight.