San Antonio Spurs: DeJuan Blair's Move to Russia Makes Sense

Spurs forward DeJuan Blair has signed a deal to play with Krasnye Krylya Samara in Russia during the course of the lockout, according to his agent Happy Walters. 

This move will probably cause the Spurs front office, along with most fans, to cringe this morning. But for Blair, the opportunity makes sense and could benefit everyone in the long run.

Exact terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the deal does include an opt-out clause for Blair to return to the Spurs when the time comes. As for Blair's rationale in signing, Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski reports, "Blair was motivated to sign so he can play meaningful minutes and stay in shape. He’s also taken out an insurance policy to protect against injury."

Beyond the safeguards of an out clause and injury insurance, getting reps in Russia will keep him fresh and hopefully help further develop his game. He's been a pleasant surprise the past two seasons in San Antonio after being drafted in the second round of the '09 draft, and in his third season, he will need to be ready to shoulder more minutes as an important part of the Spurs' frontcourt rotation. 

Of course, making a move overseas comes with risks. Yet, for a young guy with no anterior crucial ligament in either knee, Blair needs to capitalize on an opportunity like this now to earn as much as he can while his body holds up. Here's hoping he can make the most of this chance for himself and eventually for the Spurs once the lockout is over.