Why the Spurs should re-sign Sandro Mamukelashvili

Denver Nuggets v San Antonio Spurs

There are only a few months to go until NBA free agency begins in July. The San Antonio Spurs will have some difficult decisions to make regarding which players they should bring back, and who they should let walk in free agency. Pounding the Rock turned to our readers to learn who they think the Spurs should retain this summer.

It’s no secret that Sandro Mamukelashvili is a fan favorite. The poll results made it clear that Spurs fans want to keep the big man around. Mamu played well at the end of last season, when he was given a chance to play big minutes. He hustled after rebounds and was a complimentary piece next to Victor Wembanyama offensively. In April he started 5 games, played 26.1 minutes per contest and averaged 11.6 points, 9.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists while shooting 38.5% from deep.

As a restricted free agent, the Spurs will have the opportunity to bring Mamu back on a team-friendly contract. With so few players coming off the books, the Spurs will once again be cutting it close to the 15-player roster max. Mamu showed he can be a spark plug off the bench, albeit in small samples. San Antonio can use all of the offensive firepower they can get after finishing 26th in the NBA in offensive rating.

The Spurs also have a handful of players with non-guaranteed deals this summer. Out of Champagnie, Charles Bassey and Devonte’ Graham, the fans would like to see Champagnie back with the Silver and Black. Champagnie was solid for San Antonio as a starter last year. He shot above 36% from deep, and was one of their most consistent perimeter defenders. The Spurs can guarantee his contract next year for $3 million, getting him on a cheap deal.

The NBA playoffs have proven that you need versatile wings/forward who can dribble, pass, shoot and defend multiple positions. Champagnie and Mamu both have the potential to provide that for the Spurs as they continue to develop. As the Spurs head into the offseason, it wouldn’t be a surprise to prioritize retaining those two.

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