Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal 

The Spurs do the deal to tank. There’s nothing complicated at play here. 

So far, they’re not tanking very well. At 3-2, the Spurs have looked competent. Some would argue they’ve looked far too competent. 

Poeltl has been a major part of that. In fact, he’s an upper-echelon defensive big who can protect the rim and survive in space. In other words, he’s an impediment to landing in a position to draft Victor Wembanyama. 

From that perspective, moving him has its own intrinsic value. At the same time, this is a good return. Pritchard is a quality young player in a position of weakness.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jakob Poeltl, San Antonio Spurs & Boston Celtics Updates

More importantly, getting a first-round pick is essential for a team in the Spurs’ position. 

Should the Celtics give one up just to acquire Poeltl?