He was always a key cog in the ball movement, but his ability to find guys in scoring positions wasn't all that good. He's been doing a much better job of that lately, & I wouldn't be surprised if it's in part because he's been designated as the non-shooter. At least until he can show he can see the court better. The one time he attacked the basket last game it looked to me like Pope specifically called the play for him from the sideline.
SJ's value as an effective combo guard of course will go beyond this season.
At least that's how I'm interpreting his clearly new look & attitude in our offense. It seems deliberate on his part, & probably a tasked thing.