Keldon Johnson, the San Antonio Spurs’ longest-tenured player at just 25 years old, has made impressive strides in his game this season, showcasing newfound consistency. Despite previously having fluctuating performance levels, Johnson’s energy and tenacity have helped him secure a strong start to the season, which has been eagerly anticipated by Spurs fans.
In the past, Johnson’s outings varied dramatically: he could go from a stellar performance of 18 points one night to scoring just a fraction of that in the following games. However, this year’s effort has shown marked improvement right from the beginning. His hustle on the court has not only reinvigorated his own game but also energized the Spurs’ bench.
Johnson’s physical play, characterized by his relentless pursuit of offensive rebounds and aggressive drives to the basket, is a critical aspect of his game. His impressive 66.7% shooting on two-pointers speaks to his strength in the paint, while his improved three-point shooting percentage—jumping from 31.8% last season to an outstanding 54.5% this season—has been a game-changer for his overall efficiency.
Last season, Johnson impressed in the latter half, averaging 14.8 points per game with exceptional shooting efficiency. This season, however, he’s managed to maintain that level of performance from the very start, making him a vital asset to the Spurs’ lineup. Not only is he finding his role again, but his strong performance may place him among the contenders for the Sixth Man of the Year award, a remarkable turnaround considering he has transitioned from being a full-time starter.
Defensively, while Johnson is known for his hard work, his ability to contribute meaningfully on that end this season has led to significant improvements, particularly in contesting shots. In the early games, he has posted the lowest defensive field goal percentage in the NBA, reflecting an increased impact in this area, partly due to playing alongside tall teammates like Victor Wembanyama.
As the Spurs show promise this season, Keldon Johnson’s growth is a bright spot that could play a crucial role in their quest for contention. With his combination of physicality, improved shooting, and defensive prowess, Johnson is transforming into a player the Spurs can rely on, paving the way for a hopeful and exciting season ahead.