Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: Talen Horton-Tucker, 2023 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
San Antonio Spurs Receive: C Derrick Favors, F Stanley Johnson
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Doug McDermott
If the San Antonio Spurs were to decline the previously proposed trade, it might be that they don’t particularly care for Horton-Tucker. The Thunder feels like a logical third team for this framework. They don’t really care who they’re adding if there’s a draft pick attached.
Granted, a 2023 second-round pick isn’t a premium asset. That’s fine. The Thunder are only parting with Derrick Favors here, and he clearly doesn’t factor into their long-term plans. Flipping him for Horton-Tucker and any draft capital should be a no-brainer for the Thunder.
In fact, some may question the fairness of this deal in general. Especially Los Angeles Lakers fans. Unfortunately, Horton-Tucker’s 27.6% three-point accuracy over his career to date probably doesn’t yield much trade value. He’s still got some potential, but he’s proven very little over his three years with the Lakers.
As for the Spurs, they’re taking on Favors’ expiring contract and effectively flipping Doug McDermott for Johnson. Besides being four years younger, Johnson is a more effective two-way player. The Spurs may see a future for him in San Antonio.
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Meanwhile, the Lakers are focused on the present in this deal. Johnson may be a better defender than McDermott, but they need floor spacing. As a win-now outfit, McDermott’s ability to connect from long range is comfortably worth the price they’re paying here.
