Spurs: Star signing or draft pick? Analysis and options with Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs: Restructuring and Aspirations in the NBA

The San Antonio Spurs are in a restructuring period with the hope of ending a six-year drought without qualifying for the playoffs. With Victor Wembanyama, who was in China learning more about himself, the team seeks to consolidate a renewed roster. The Texan team has valuable assets, including lottery picks and future first-round picks, which allows them to consider strategic moves. The San Antonio franchise began its long-term plan in 2020 to secure Wembanyama. The strategy is based on a solid and sustainable construction, prioritizing step-by-step development. However, after registering one of the worst records in the league, the question is whether the Spurs will maintain this approach, considering the opportunities that arise.

Although they have received inquiries from teams interested in the second draft selection, and with figures like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant potentially available, the Spurs seem focused on their long-term plan. The possible arrival of Durant could be an opportunity, but the team must evaluate the cost and associated risks.

We want to build something sustainable. You have to build it brick by brick.

Brian Wright, General Manager of the Spurs

Wembanyama, who admires Durant’s game, could benefit from his experience, according to the young player. The Spurs’ technical staff, including the president of basketball operations, Gregg Popovich, values the work ethic and joy that Durant brings to the game. Regarding the draft, the Spurs are expected to select Dylan Harper with their second pick. In addition to Harper, the Spurs need to improve their roster. They need a backup point guard and a backup center, as the depth at center was limited last season. The team is evaluating its options, keeping its long-term goals as a priority. Three possible trade options will be analyzed to strengthen the squad. The Spurs are in a solid financial position to make significant moves, with considerable space below the luxury tax.

Dylan Harper led the Rutgers Scarlett Knights last season with 19.4 points per game. After the lottery night, the Spurs seem comfortable with the selection of Harper, considered the second-best prospect in the draft. The organization is focused on surrounding Wembanyama with players who will elevate his game. The team will explore options with the number 14 pick, either selecting a young player or trading it to add veteran talent. Players like “Carter Bryant”, “Noa Essengue”, and “Joan Beringer” are considered possible options. Here are three possible exchange scenarios.Option 1: Giannis Antetokounmpo in exchange for several players and future draft picks.Milwaukee Bucks receive: Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, the number 2 pick, a 2026 first-round pick, a 2028 first-round pick, a 2030 first-round pick, and a 2031 pick swap.Spurs receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo.Option 2: The Spurs trade players and the 14th pick of 2025 for Durant.Phoenix Suns receive: Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley, Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson, the number 14 pick from 2025 and a first-round pick from 2027.Spurs receive: Durant.Option 3: The Spurs get the number 27 pick and players in exchange for Cam Johnson.Brooklyn Nets receive: Malaki Branham, Keldon Johnson, the 14th pick of 2025 and a first-round pick of 2029.Spurs receive: Cam Johnson, the 27th pick of 2025.

Among these options, acquiring Cam Johnson seems to be the most realistic for the Spurs. This option best fits the team’s ideal timeline. With Johnson’s salary being less than Durant’s or Antetokounmpo’s, the Spurs wouldn’t have to completely dismantle their roster. Furthermore, they would keep the number 2 pick in the draft and get a first-round pick from the Nets.