It's official, the Spurs are ready to compete, but with that comes some tough decisions. We are no longer in a time that allows young players freedom. Brian Wright must begin to select his core group of players and weed out the ones who do not fit.
In particular, the Spurs' 2022 9th overall selection, [Jeremy Sochan, is on the bubble](https://airalamo.com/spurs-desperately-need-jeremy-sochan-unlock-potential-solving-flaw). Sochan has played a variety of roles throughout his time in San Antonio but has failed to blossom into a can't-miss player.
His offense has sputtered in moments, and this has led to some tricky playing time decisions. Without a reputable three-point shot, it is tough to find consistent minutes for Sochan. However, Sochan's greatest strength may be enough for him to stick around.
Jeremy Sochan's ability to switch on defense is rare
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In the NBA, there is one player archetype that everyone wants: a lengthy wing that can switch on defense. In a league where games are full of movement and screens, having a player who is invincible to switches is invaluable.
These types of players dramatically affect the defense, giving the group much more flexibility and breathing room. Sochan fits perfectly into this category. The Baylor alum has mastered this ability and used his long arms to get in the way of almost any ball-handler.
He has excelled defensively every time he has touched the court and has been a massive [asset to the Spurs' defense](https://airalamo.com/jeremy-sochan-politely-owns-ridiculous-critic-most-spurs-way-ever). In a variety of situations, the Spurs have called upon Sochan to defend the opposing team's best player while Victor Wembanyama roams the paint.
The Spurs need every defender they can get
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If one thing is clear, it is that the Spurs want to be an elite defense. While Wembanyama alone makes the Spurs' defensive group top-tier, additional pieces around him can turn it into one of the best in the NBA. Thus, the Spurs need to maintain a player like Sochan.
His unique skills blend perfectly with the Spurs' game plan, and when paired up with Wembanyama or any of the other dominant defenders, the Spurs will suffocate opposing offenses. Having both the perimeter threat of Sochan and the interior threat of Wembanyama, the Spurs will be complete from top to bottom.
Even if Sochan isn't playing starter-caliber minutes, he is a vital piece for the Spurs to maintain. When you look at other contenders around the league, it is easy to see how crucial it is to have these types of defenders. In playoff matchups, the game slows down, and the lights shine the brightest on the best defenders.
As general manager, Brian Wright navigates his roster construction; it would be my best advice to keep Sochan around for the long run.