The Overlooked Difference-Maker: Devin Vassell
Devin Vassell's leadership and impact on both ends of the floor has played a major role in the Spurs' success.
Photo Credit: NBA.com
While the majority of the spotlight remains on Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell has been one of the most consistent and impactful players in the San Antonio Spurs-Oklahoma City Thunder playoff series so far. His two-way performance has provided San Antonio with stability throughout crucial moments in the postseason.
Vassell made his presence known in Game 4 that wasn’t fully reflected in the box score. He contributed steady perimeter defense against OKC’s guards, limiting their ability to shoot. He was also able to facilitate an efficient offense that kept the Spurs in control.
In the first quarter Vassell made a huge block on Jared McCain. As Vassell retrieved the ball, he excelled in transition, driving to draw the defense and throwing a nice lob to Wembanyama. But, when it’s needed, he’s able to sprint in transition and make clutch mid-range jumpers or 3-pointers that help boost the Spurs momentum.
Even when he’s not making those shots, he’s been a defensive weapon. Throughout this series, OKC’s physicality has been a factor, but Vassell has responded. He has made impactful defensive plays by being extremely physical, making OKC’s guards force possessions or attempt passes that have resulted in turnovers. He plays well in the passing lanes, allowing him to deflect passes and make explosive plays in transition. In a post-game press conference, Coach Mitch Johnson praised Vassell’s improvement and effort in this playoff series.
“He’s been phenomenal, he may be our most consistent player if you took away any stats and just watched us play… He’s developed into a heck of a scorer in this league,” Johnson said.
Vassell’s leadership role throughout this series has been impactful as well. As a veteran player, he is able to direct and control the offense with poise and composure. He never looks flustered. His love for the game is just as strong as his love for his team. In Game 2, Alex Caruso fouled Castle on a layup. On the next play, Ajay Mitchell was assessed a flagrant foul after knocking Castle over as he tried to attack the rim. Vassell intervened after the dangerous foul. In a post-game press conference he explained why he got involved.
“I just had my teammates back, that’s my brother,” Vassell said. “He tried to go up for a dunk and it just looked like he pushed him…you know that could be a dangerous play and I just went ahead and had my teammates back.”
For a young Spurs roster still learning and growing throughout the playoffs, having a player like Vassell is valuable. Whether it is making the right offensive plays, discipline on defense or just standing up for his teammates, Vassell continues to provide a sense of leadership that every playoff team needs.
Most importantly, Vassell understands his role perfectly. He’s rarely out of position on defense and never forces offense, making game-winning plays without needing any recognition. The all-around performance and level of discipline that he displays is what the Spurs need. He is the ultimate glue guy.
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