In the NBA, generational prospects are rare, that’s what makes them generational. They only come around so often. This summer, one of them made his way into the National Basketball Association.
Of course, we’re talking about Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs. This was a loaded draft class. Scoot Henderson, Brandon Miller, Amen Thompson, and more all have star potential. Still, Wembanyama towered over the competition – figuratively and literally.
Some have called him the best prospect to enter the NBA since LeBron James. If he is, the Spurs are in good shape. James is nearing the end of his NBA career, but he’s still able to largely carry the Los Angeles Lakers. Could the Lakers acquire Keldon Johnson from the Spurs to support him?
The Trade Proposal
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, F/C Jarred Vanderbilt, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G/F Keldon Johnson
With that said, generational prospects are one thing. Generational players are another. A player can enter the NBA with any amount of hype. If they don’t make good on their potential, it will be a moot point.
James made good on his. That much is obvious. Some consider him the best player in the history of the sport. You don’t have to have him in that top spot, but if he’s not in your top 5, you’ve probably got a bias. Is that the standard for Wembanyama?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Keldon Johnson, San Antonio Spurs & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
It’s hard to say. On the one hand, that feels unfair. If Wembanyama is merely an All-NBA player, he’ll fall short of expectations. Wembanyama is supposed to win multiple MVPs. Is that fair? Does this deal help him accomplish that goal?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
Realistically, it’s hard to say where the Spurs will go next. They may not want to flagrantly tank next season. That doesn’t feel like an optimal way to start Wembanyama’s career. On the other hand, this young team is far from title contention. The Spurs could want another crack at the lottery.
Fair. Either way, it feels like this team could use a point guard. If they want Wembanyama to get a feel for NBA basketball, Trae Jones may not cut the mustard. He’s a solid backup, but his inability to shoot makes it difficult for him to orchestrate an offense.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Keldon Johnson, San Antonio Spurs & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Russell can do that. He’d be a solid addition to this roster with his passing chops. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt is a solid, young, multi-positional defender. Still, the most important asset that the Spurs are landing here is an unprotected first. for a rebuilding team, that’s invaluable. Should the Lakers part with that pick?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Let’s look at how Russell landed on the Lakers in the first place. Is this a player they intentionally targeted? Or, were they making the best of a bad situation? Russell Westbrook was always a dreadful fit alongside James. Was Russell an optimal upgrade?
We don’t think so. Russell lacks the catch-and-shoot acumen to complement LeBron James. He prefers to dominate the ball in pick-and-roll sets. With that in mind, the recently acquired Gabe Vincent may be a better fit for the Lakers at point guard.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Keldon Johnson, San Antonio Spurs & Los Angeles Lakers Updates
So, why not flip Russell? Here, the Lakers are bringing in a young player with star potential. In fact, Johnson has already produced at a high level in his NBA career. He’s the best player in this deal – imagine him next to a generational player like LeBron James.
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