Build a championship-winning roster for the Spurs this summer with star players around Wembanyama.
The rise of Victor Wembanyama presents a favorable opportunity for the San Antonio Spurs to build a competitive squad around him. With Wembanyama about to enter his second season as the reigning Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, the Spurs have a clear mandate to bolster their roster and maximize his abilities. This summer, the focus should be on pursuing key players to complement Wembanyama and get the team back into the playoffs.
The Spurs are fully pursuing Trae Young as a point guard
Spurs get: Trae Young
The Hawks get: Jeremy Soshan, Trey Jones, 2025 first-round pick (from the Hawks), 2027 first-round pick (from the Hawks), 2026 second-round pick
The San Antonio Spurs could pursue Trae Young, especially given Trae Young's excellent performances this season. Averaging 26.0 points, 10.8 assists and 2.8 rebounds per game in 53 games while shooting 37.3 percent from beyond the three-point line, Young has proven himself to be one of the best point guards in the league.
Young's scoring ability and playmaking skills make him a perfect fit for the Spurs' need for an elite point guard. Wembanyama's proficiency in pick-and-roll games can benefit Wembanyama immensely, providing him with easy opportunities to attack the basket. Wembanyama's height and athleticism combined with Young's precise passing can create lethality for opposition defence.
In addition, Young's shooting will create more space for Wembanyama to move on the inside. Trae Young has established himself as a leader on the court, which is invaluable for the Spurs' young lineup.
On the other hand, the Atlanta Hawks will receive assets such as Jeremy Soshan, Trey Jones, and future draft picks in the proposed deal. These assets provide the Hawks with the flexibility to approach the point guard position. With Dejounte Murray playing for his value, the Hawks could make a tough decision between Young and Murray this summer, potentially leading to one of them leaving via trade. However, including young players and draft picks in the trade package allows the Hawks to continue building for the future.
Lauri Markkanen is perfect for the front court
Spurs get: Lauri Markkanen
Jazz get: Keldon Johnson, 2025 first-round pick, 2027 first-round pick
The proposed deal brings Lauri Markkanen to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Keldon Johnson and a future first-round pick. Markkanen has been a stellar season, averaging 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game in 55 games and shooting 39.9% from beyond the three-point line.
Markkanen's ability to open up space as a power forward is particularly appealing to the Spurs. His shooting range forced opposition defense to extend to the perimeter, creating additional breakout routes for Trae Young and opportunities for Wembanyama to operate on the inside. This ability to pull defenders off the basket not only benefits Markkanen's scoring chances, but it also enhances the team's overall offensive fluidity.
In addition, Markkanen's ability to score both inside and outside makes him a threat to be reckoned with on the court. Whether it's shooting three-pointers, driving to the basket, or utilizing mid-range shots, Markkanen has eased the offensive burden on Young and Wembanyama. In addition, his proficiency in pop-up three-point shots after a pick-and-roll can create misalignments and create scoring opportunities for teammates.
Defensively, Markkanen's contribution may not be as obvious as his offensive skills, but his size and mobility allow him to maintain his advantage against opposing forwards. While Markkanen may not be as a defensive stalwart as Wembanyama, his presence in the frontcourt adds variety to the Spurs' defensive plan and is able to protect rebounds.
In addition, Markkanen's fit with the Spurs' core is also worth considering. At just 26 years old, he fits the ages of players like Young and Wembanyama very well, providing the team with the potential for long-term growth and development.
The deal of Herb Jones from New Orleans
Trae Young's dynamic scoring and playmaking skills make him the commander of the team. Devin Vassell's defensive ability and three-point shooting ability provide a consistent wedding on the wing. His steady improvement throughout the season has made him a reliable player on both the offensive and defensive ends.
Herb Jones brings excellent defense to the lineup, making him a valuable asset on the wing. His ability to effectively defend multiple positions and his nomination for Defensive Player of the Year highlight his impact on the team's defense. Offensively, he has consistent scoring and assists.
Markkanen and Wembanyama can open up space, are tall and disruptive defensively.
Overall, the lineup is very balanced in terms of scoring, playmaking, defense, and space. Trae Young scored and played, while Malka's outside shooting echoed Wembanyama's inside. Vassell and Jones provided solid defense on both wings, with the starting five being well-rounded offensively and defensively.
With such a lineup, the Spurs have the ability to compete for the top seed in the West. The combination of youth, talent and switching points well for their future success, especially given the potential for these players to further develop and build chemistry.