Should Spurs Bench Players for Poor Play?
The San Antonio Spurs are in a rut, falling by 19 points to the Utah Jazz on Sunday night. While Devin Vassell and Victor Wembanyama both had solid nights, Keldon Johnson played under four minutes and did not make an appearance in the second half.
Johnson checked in for Julian Champagnie, and fouled Lauri Markkenan on a three-pointer, resulting in a four-point play to put the Spurs down by 11 points. He was quickly subbed out and did not return to the game.
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After the game, assistant coach Mitch Johnson took to the podium to explain why Keldon did not get a chance for redemption.
"Just repetitive mistakes, sometimes you need to change up the messaging or change up the accountability or how you do things, and Pop's the best at it," said the sixth-year coach.
Earlier in the month, Zach Collins was benched in a loss to the Brooklyn Nets for similar mistakes. While the Spurs are preaching development this year, boneheaded players will not be tolerated by the coaching staff, especially when committed by more experienced players.
There is "no doubt" that Johnson will bounce back in his next appearance.
With Johnson effectively told to hit the showers, Sandro Mamukelashvili got extended minutes, scoring eight points and swiping two steals. Mamu only missed one shot in his 13 minutes,
"Great energy, and he's done that in the history that he's been here when he's called upon he always plays hard and brings energy," said Coach Johnson after the game regarding Mamukelashvili.
It was only the seventh time all season that Sandro played double-digit minutes, although he is averaging 7.2 points in those appearances.
While the Spurs are eager to give Keldon another chance, expect Mamukelashvili to receive extended minutes to finish out the season.
Ultimately, the Spurs are a rebuilding project and nothing is concrete. When one person isn't performing up to par, another person could be there to take advantage of the opportunity. That's why it's important for the Spurs to hold their players accountable the way they've been doing.
