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Who will replace the San Antonio Spurs? Meet the second team

Who will replace the San Antonio Spurs? Meet the second team

As the San Antonio Spurs continue their rebuild, roster depth is crucial. Their second unit, loaded with talent and potential, will play a vital role in supporting the starters.

Here’s a look at the players who will be looking to come off the bench this season.

Leader: Tre Jones

April 10, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Tre Jones (33) moves the ball around Oklahoma City Thunder

April 10, 2024; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Tre Jones (33) moves the ball around Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey (3) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. / Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Tre Jones brings experience and stability to the point guard position. After showing his playmaking and defensive skills last season, Jones is ready to lead the second unit and provide a smooth offensive flow. Known for his vision and high basketball IQ, he excels at controlling the pace of the game while playing tenacious defense. With this being the final year of his contract, Jones will sit behind Chris Paul, who signed a one-year deal in July.

Shooting Guard: Stephon Castle

July 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during

July 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter at Thomas & Mack Center. / Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Rookie guard Stephon Castle shows great promise as a dynamic scorer. Known for his ability to create shots and finish around the basket, Castle’s athleticism makes him an interesting bench player. If he can develop a consistent three-point shot, the UCONN product could find himself in the starting five. Although young, his potential to become a key player is undeniable.

Winger: Julian Champagnie

April 9, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, United States; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich (left) talks with forward Julian Champagnie

April 9, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich (L) talks with forward Julian Champagnie (30) during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. / Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Julian Champagnie has already shown his worth as a versatile wing, scoring and grabbing rebounds. With a strong ability to stretch the floor, Champagnie can be a constant offensive threat. His size and agility also make him a solid defender capable of defending multiple positions. While not a star, Champagnie has the ability to score 10 points a night as a backup.

Power Forward: Keldon Johnson

March 29, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) reacts during the second half against the

March 29, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) reacts during the second half against the New York Knicks at Frost Bank Center. / Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Former starter Keldon Johnson now brings energy and toughness to the second unit. Known for his aggressive offense and dynamism on defense, Johnson’s leadership is invaluable. Despite his time on the bench, Johnson remains a scoring threat and a force on the rebound. The former Kentucky Wildcat, still young and improving, could easily find his place back in the starting lineup.

Center: Zach Collins

April 7, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Zach Collins (23) prepares to shoot in front of Philadelphia

April 7, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Zach Collins (23) prepares to shoot past Philadelphia 76ers center Mo Bamba (5) in the first half at Frost Bank Center. / Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

Zach Collins rounds out the bench as a backup center. Collins provides key defensive protection and rebounding, as well as the ability to stretch the floor with his shots. His presence in the paint will be essential, especially when Victor Wembanyama needs a rest. Collins’ ability to defend the pick-and-roll and anchor the second-unit defense is crucial to the Spurs’ depth.

This second unit, full of potential, is ready to step up and make a difference as the Spurs rebuild for the future.

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