San Antonio Spurs Season Preview: Can Blake Wesley Carve Out a Role?

After being selected 25th overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2022 NBA Draft, Blake Wesley was expected to be a raw prospect with high upside, eventually turning into a solid backup guard. However, after two seasons with the Spurs, he is still inconsistent and has struggled to get playing time.

As his rookie contract nears its end, the Spurs could not pick up his option next summer, or not resign him the year after that, like they did with Lonnie Walker IV. While it's a bit early to say that the 2024-25 season will be boom or bust for Wesley, he will have to flash plenty of upside.

Wesley is making $2.6 million this season and will make $4.7 million next year if the Spurs pick up his option. While he improved his overall efficiency last year and cut his turnovers in half, his 29.9 percent mark from three does not inspire a ton of confidence.

The Spurs, to their credit, are still involved in his development are are hoping they can get the most out of their long, athletic young guard. Midway through last season, Gregg Popovich was still singing his praises.

"He is playing enough now where he can make decisions and learn that maybe the decision should have been different, or this was a great decision," said Popovich.

The Spurs are expected to be fighting for a Play-In spot this season, but developing their existing talent will remain the top priority. As Wesley seeks to make his name known, he will have to make the most of the limited minutes he will be given.

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His weak point throughout his career has been turning the ball over and his outside shooting. If he approaches this season like a final tryout before the Spurs go all-in on winning, he will need to continue to cut down on turnovers and showcase that he can be a multi-faceted offensive weapon even without a reliable shot. Moving forward, expect Wesley to play a pass-first role, which will only benefit the players around him.