:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/27346571/20131023_hcs_sy4_026.0.jpg)
Earlier today the San Antonio Spurs waived Malcolm Thomas in a move to clear a roster spot. The Spurs had a full roster of 15 players under contract and were looking to add some wing depth after both Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green broke their hands. The front-runner for that spot so far seems to be Othyus Jeffers.
According to a report by Marc Stein that was later confirmed by Mike Monroe, the Spurs are considering signing the 6-5 wing to a ten-day contract. Jeffers played for the Iowa Energy of the D-League this year, averaging 22.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 2.5 steal in 38.4 minutes a game. Jeffers had a brief stint with the Spurs in March, 2011 when he was signed to a ten-day contract. He only played eight minutes in a win against Miami before he was released.
He is known to be a good defender and an elite rebounder for his position, at least at the D-League level. That seems to be the type of player the Spurs need with Green and Leonard out. Unfortunately, Jeffers is less of a seamless fit on offense. He gets most of his points in transition, at the line or near the rim and doesn't seem to have an outside shot. He is a career 30% three point shooter in the D-League and barely takes perimeter jumpers.
Jeffers is also 28-years-old, so in all likelihood, there is little upside left. If he is indeed called up, this seems to be a stopgap signing for the Spurs. They could extend Jeffers another 10-day contract after his first one runs out before having to decide between signing him for the rest of the season or letting him walk. Danny Green could be back in 20 days so unless Jeffers really impresses, he won't likely be with the team come playoff time.
So far no other names have surfaced but I wouldn't be surprised if the Spurs do their due diligence before calling somebody up. For now, go read Aaron Preine's interview with Jeffers from his first stint with the Spurs and enjoy these highlights. We'll keep you posted as the story develops.
