Spurs Nation got a chance to see Jeremy Sochan back in action for the first time this season, and it was a sight for sore eyes. It was a slow start for the Polish Prince, but it didn't take long before he started showing off the defensive chops that earned him the adulation he receives from the right side of the fan base. It wasn't perfect, but it was Jeremy, and the team missed it.
The former Baylor Bear dropped 16 points while only missing one shot and knocking down one of his two attempts from deep. His offense was in line with what you want from him, and his defense was mostly everything you expect.
He did foul out, but there was also a quick whistle tonight, so it's not all on him. Victor Wembanyama and Harrison Barnes also fouled out of the game. It made for a miserable viewing experience through much of the game, but if there was any solace in the zebra party, it was Sochan's return.
The Spurs got back their second-best defender
The Silver and Black made an impact on Luka Doncic, and it was because they had the pieces to do it. Victor Wembanyama patrols the paint and discourages some of the easy runs to the basket, but the guys on the outside play their part as well. Stephon Castle was the first to take the challenge. When he went to the bench, it was Sochan's turn, and we got to see a familiar matchup.
Last season, the Lakers' Slovenian superstar shot 30% when defended by the Spurs' defensive genius. Sochan was one of the best defenders in the league to match up with Luka, and he showed that again today—at least, in spurts. Doncic only shot 33% against SA, but he shot 17 free-throw attempts and racked up 13 assists.
I'd be less concerned with his 35 points if he didn't do the other things that help his team keep pace with their opponent. He also added nine rebounds to his night. Luka showed exactly what you expect from an NBA superstar of his caliber. It's impossibly difficult to stop them. That's what Wembanyama referenced before the two met last night for the fifth time in Vic's young career.
At the end of the day, you can't expect to completely shut down all-time great players. You try to contain them. Jeremy did that as well as you can expect, and his offense was more than good enough to be a strong rotational player.
The good news is that it was only his first game, and it was against one of the toughest covers in the league. He did well under those tough circumstances. That bodes well for his progress. It was a good night for Sochan, and Spurs Nation should be happy to see him back in uniform.
Grade: B