Spurs look even more genius for questionable Devin Vassell move after latest update

Just 19 games remain in the regular season, and the San Antonio Spurs are rounding into playoff form at the right time. They've been red-hot, winning 14 of their last 15 games with guard Devin Vassell helping to lead the charge.

For a player who's been divisive among Spurs fans, Vassell has quieted critics this season. Especially over the last 15 games.

He's shooting a blistering 43.2% from three on 5.9 3-point attempts per game during that span and 38.6% overall. He's far and away the Spurs' best shooter, with him also ranking in the top 10 in the NBA in mid-range shooting percentage.

Considering how much of a concern shooting was entering the season, Vassell was always poised to play a big role. He certainly has, especially now.

Devin Vassell's elite shooting makes him the Spurs' X-factor

The Spurs are an impressive 12-2 when Vassell makes at least four threes this season and 21-2 when he hits at least 40% from outside in a game. Yes, Victor Wembanyama, De'Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle all average more points.

However, a fourth option who can consistently score 15 points and occasionally go off for 20-plus is a luxury that few teams have.

Better still, with him under contract for the next three seasons, they can afford to keep him at least in the short term. It really wasn't long ago that fans were questioning his contract.

Fortunately, his contract will pay him $27 million or less going forward. That's more or less in line with an above-average starter, and the rising salary cap will make it more affordable.

Devin Vassell has proven to be crucial to the Spurs' success

Wembanyama has one more year on his rookie contract, while Castle and Harper have two and three years remaining, respectively.

Those cheaper contracts can offset Fox and Vassell's large deals. If he continues to shoot like he has this season, San Antonio should keep him as long as possible.

Especially with a Fox, Castle, and Harper trio potentially lacking enough 3-point shooting to make up a viable lineup.

The question marks surrounding the offensive fit of those three players mean that Vassell may continue to start for the foreseeable future. After all, coach Mitch Johnson clearly prioritizes spacing.

His shooting, like he has, particularly of late, makes Vassell a crucial part of San Antonio's success.