Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report recently included Devin Vassell in a list of players labeled as having “slightly overpaid” contracts, which raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. Vassell, a crucial part of the San Antonio Spurs’ young core, was considered overpaid despite his rising value, production, and importance to the team’s future.
While Pincus acknowledged that the Spurs are in a good position with their payroll overall, the assertion that Vassell’s contract is “a bit high” has sparked debate. Vassell’s recent extension, a five-year, $146 million deal, reflects the Spurs’ confidence in his potential. His consistent development, especially on both ends of the floor, makes him a key contributor. In the 2022-2023 season, he averaged 18.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact the game as a versatile two-way wing.
Vassell’s contract places him within a competitive pay scale for players at his position, many of whom have similar or larger deals without matching his defensive prowess and growing offensive skill set. His deal is also reflective of the current market dynamics, where contracts for promising young players continue to rise.
Given the direction of the Spurs’ rebuild and Vassell’s role alongside No. 1 pick Victor Wembanyama, his deal seems more aligned with future value rather than being overpriced.
Calling Vassell overpaid doesn’t take several factors into account
You raise an excellent point about Devin Vassell’s contract, and it’s hard to argue against the logic that labeling him as “slightly overpaid” seems both shortsighted and out of context. At $29 million per year, Vassell’s contract is well within the market range for talented, two-way wings, especially when compared to players like Immanuel Quickley, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Deandre Ayton. These are solid players, but none offer the combination of shot creation, defensive versatility, and upside that Vassell provides. Additionally, the fact that he’s only slightly ahead of players like Tyler Herro and Nic Claxton—two players who either lack Vassell’s defensive consistency or overall versatility—supports the idea that his contract is anything but an overpay.
Vassell is integral to the Spurs’ long-term plans, and at 24 years old, he’s just scratching the surface of his potential. His 2022-23 season, where he averaged 18.5 points and provided crucial perimeter defense, is a clear indication of a player on an upward trajectory. With Victor Wembanyama now anchoring the franchise, Vassell will be instrumental in spacing the floor, defending multiple positions, and providing secondary shot creation—traits that are invaluable in today’s NBA.
As you pointed out, the structure of Vassell’s contract is smartly aligned with the NBA’s rising salary cap. His salary actually decreases over time, with a notable drop to $27 million per year starting next season, and another reduction to $24.6 million by 2027-28. With the cap projected to continue rising, what currently might seem like a hefty deal will likely look like a steal in a few seasons. In the modern NBA, where wings who can score, defend, and create are in high demand, Vassell’s contract will be a bargain, especially as he continues to develop.
Zach Collins’ contract, on the other hand, is a more reasonable subject for critique, as you mentioned. While Collins’ deal reflects “starter money,” he has since shifted to a bench role. However, even that contract isn’t crippling for the Spurs, and the fact that it’s likely tradeable gives the team flexibility.
Ultimately, San Antonio’s overall payroll management deserves credit, not criticism. They’ve locked in a key piece of their future at a reasonable price in Vassell, whose value will only increase as he continues to develop alongside Wembanyama. Calling Vassell “overpaid” misses the bigger picture of his career arc, his importance to the franchise, and the rapidly evolving financial landscape of the NBA. Instead of viewing his contract as a potential burden, it should be seen as a savvy investment in a player who will be pivotal in the Spurs’ future success.
