Coach Mitch Johnson had little choice but to start the talented yet cramped trio of De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, Michael Pina argues.
The Spurs entered Monday’s slate at 8-2, and much of that success beyond Victor Wembanyama stems from the backcourt clicking better than many expected.
Castle’s and Harper’s size fuels the defense, while Devin Vassell embraces a makeshift power‑forward role; together they break down defenses and feed Wembanyama on the fast break.
While outside shooting still lags, the trio now understands its role and the sacrifices required, Pina writes. For my money, the Spurs’ backcourt is the league’s most underrated unit.
We have more from around the Southwest Division:
- Carter Bryant earned a solid bench spot as a rookie, yet his 2026/27 start hit bumps. After seven games he fell out for veteran Harrison Barnes, a minutes issue Johnson confirmed. “We got a lot of guys,” he said. “Not enough minutes to go around, so Bryant must keep doing what he’s doing and stay in the process.” Bryant shared a Bible verse on Instagram about present sufferings versus future glory, then logged just three minutes over the next two games before posting 17 minutes in Saturday’s win over Portland. Afterward Johnson praised his energy, calling him a huge part of the team moving forward.
- Saddiq Bey kept a low profile for the Pelicans but erupted for 22 points in a win over the Jazz, NOLA.com reports. He said he was simply trying to thank fans who stick with the team through thick and thin. Averaging 16.1 points in 27.0 minutes, he’s now a Sixth Man of the Year candidate. Coach Jamahl Mosley lauded him as the ultimate professional and competitor, the model every player should emulate.
- Zach Edey stepped away from Team Canada’s 2024 Olympic roster to focus on his NBA start with the Grizzlies, but he says he’ll return if healthy. “If I’m healthy, I’m playing,” he affirmed. Will Edey suit up for Canada once he’s fully healthy?