The San Antonio Spurs are in an exciting position, largely due to the stellar performance of rookie Victor Wembanyama, who quickly has proven to be a rising NBA superstar. With Wembanyama’s breakout season, the team’s future looks promising. How quickly that future arrives, however, depends on this season’s development.
The addition of experienced veterans should provide Wembanyama with strong leadership and guidance. This support will not only foster his growth but could also set the Spurs up for a successful season next year. Still, there are areas the team needs to address.
One of the biggest concerns is the guard rotation. Aside from rookie Stephon Castle, the Spurs lack long-term solutions at either guard position. While the acquisition of Chris Paul adds valuable veteran leadership, his playing career is nearing its end.
Finding a playmaker to complement Wembanyama should be a top priority. Fortunately, several potential targets could fit San Antonio’s timeline. Whether in a starting role or as a backup, here are three options that make sense for the Spurs.
Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers
Anfernee Simons would be an ideal fit alongside Wembanyama. His shooting and playmaking abilities would mesh well with Wembanyama’s versatile game, creating an effective inside-out duo. Additionally, Wembanyama’s defensive prowess could help cover any weaknesses in Simons’ defense. Few players offer the production and upside that Simons does at his price point.
At just 24 years old and with five years of NBA experience, Simons is young enough to align with the Spurs’ timeline. Over the past two seasons, he has averaged 21.5 points per game and 4.5 assists, shooting nearly 39% from three-point range. His ability to space the floor, with multiple seasons of shooting over 40% from deep, would be a perfect addition to San Antonio’s offense.
Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons
After a difficult season with the Detroit Pistons, Jaden Ivey could be another option for the Spurs. Detroit’s commitment to Cade Cunningham has left Ivey in an uncertain position, especially given his inconsistent shooting. With young prospects like Ron Holland and Ausar Thompson emerging in Detroit, Ivey might find himself on the trade block. San Antonio could benefit from his athleticism and ability to attack the basket, which would complement Wembanyama and Zach Collins’ shooting.
Although Ivey struggled this season, his performance may have been impacted by how his minutes were managed under coach Monty Williams. Ivey averaged 15.4 points per game while shooting 33% from three-point range. However, in games where he received more minutes, his numbers jumped to 20.3 points per game and 37.2% from deep. If he can maintain that production, Ivey could become a key player for the Spurs.
Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
A more ambitious option for the Spurs would be pursuing Trae Young. With the Atlanta Hawks likely headed into a brief rebuild, the timing could be right for San Antonio to make a move. Pairing Young with Wembanyama would be an exciting combination that could elevate the Spurs.
Young’s elite playmaking and scoring, combined with Wembanyama’s shot-making and defensive abilities, would create a formidable duo. Young has averaged 27 points and 11 assists per game at his peak, while Wembanyama has immense potential. While it’s uncertain if San Antonio will make a significant move this season, a mid-season trade for Young could position the team for a dominant year in 2025.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
Local News
Comments / 0