It only took Luke Kornet one half to solve the Spurs' biggest problem

In Luke Kornet’s first half of basketball as a member of the San Antonio Spurs, Luke Kornet proved that he’s the answer to the team’s biggest problem: Backup center minutes. Ever since Victor Wembanyama landed in San Antonio, backup center minutes have been an issue, but Kotner looks like the solution.

Kornet played 13:36 in the first half of the Spurs’ first preseason game against the Guangzhou Loong-Lions, and he was awesome. Kornet put up 16 points, four rebounds, and one assist while shooting a perfect 6-of-6 from the floor. He did absolutely everything the Spurs needed him to.

And he’s only getting started.

Luke Kornet just proved that he is perfect for the Spurs

Adding center depth was a major goal of the Spurs’ offseason. Not only did they sign Kornet in free agency, but they also made a trade to land Kelly Olynyk, giving them ample options in the frontcourt.

But while Olynyk may be the more notable name in recent NBA history, Kornet is the true steal of the summer. He’s one of the best backup centers in the league.

Last year with the Boston Celtics, Kornet emerged as an absolute stud off the pine, giving the then-reigning champs great minutes behind Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford.

Kornet made a major shift in his game in recent years, ditching his three-point shot in favor of working exclusively in the paint. His work in the dunker spot and as a short-roll passer make him an unbelievable tool on the offensive end.

He even got the chance to show off some chemistry with Wembanyama in the Spurs’ game against the Loong-Lions. The pair of big men connected on some passes that directly led to Kornet buckets.

While Kornet is likely going to spend the large bulk of his time as a backup five behind Wembanyama, Mitch Johnson should have the opportunity to roll out some very intriguing double-big lineups, too.

Those types of groups could be very difficult for opposing teams to deal with, as the Spurs would be able to get two seven-footers on the floor at one time.

When the Spurs signed Kornet in free agency, it was widely seen as a great value signing, but his first half of Spurs basketball exceeded those expectations. He was more than what fans could have hoped for.

With guys like De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper, and Stephon Castle leading the way in San Antonio, three players who are very comfortable running the offense and setting up their teammates, Kornet should have every opportunity to thrive.