In Spurscast Episode #668, host Paul Garcia and Project Spurs writer Benjamin Bornstein discuss the preseason injuries for Josh Primo and Keldon Johnson.
- Josh Richardson says Devin Vassell is ready to make a leap this season.
- Early season minutes for the rookies.
Preseason Injuries for Keldon Johnson and Josh Primo
San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson will miss the start of the preseason with a dislocated right shoulder. According to the team, it occurred in a gym session three weeks ago. Fortunately, he should be back for the first game of the regular season. On Thursday, the Spurs announced that Primo will miss the start of the preseason as well. He is dealing with an MCL sprain and, like Johnson, Primo is expected to be back for the season opener.
Devin Vassell to Make a Big Jump This Season?
In a training camp interview, Josh Richardson said the player he thinks will take a big step this season is Vassell. He said Vassell is more vocal on the court and is showing more playmaking with the ball in his hands. He is able to create shots for himself and others.
Vassell himself says that he is focusing on driving and trying to get to the free throw line.
Early Minutes For the Rookies
San Antonio is shifting toward a development-focused season and could change its approach to developing the rookies. In previous years, rookies have been sent straight to the G League in Austin. This season, however, Jeremy Sochan, Malaki Branham, and Blake Wesley all have a shot to earn a role on the team. Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich said only Jakob Poeltl has a guaranteed spot in the starting lineup.
