San Antonio Spurs Receive: F Talen Horton-Tucker, F Stanley Johnson
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Doug McDermott
This NBA trade scenario should satisfy both organizations’ preferences, although it’s hard to pin down the San Antonio Spurs at the moment. Arguably, they should be rebuilding, but they may be stubbornly opposed to doing so.
For argument’s sake, let’s assume that’s the plan in San Antonio. This trade has them landing a 25-year-old (Johnson) and a 21-year-old (Horton-Tucker) at the expense of the 30-year-old Doug McDermott. It probably makes them worse in the short term, but with a historic 2023 draft coming next summer, that’s a win for a rebuilding team.
Meanwhile, the Spurs may see some potential in Horton-Tucker. Granted, his trade value has depreciated after a rough showing in 2021-22. Dreams of Myles Turner and Jerami Grant should be squarely put to bed for Los Angeles Lakers fans.
Still, he’s a young wing with an interesting physical profile. If he can turn his three-point shooting around, he can still be a player in this league.
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If the Spurs don’t see that, they may punt on this deal. Acquiring players for the mere sake of getting younger doesn’t feel like their style. They’ll insist on quality young players, and they or may not view THT as one.
If they don’t, these teams may need to invite a third party to the dance.
