If you’ve been watching the NBA’s preseason, you’ve likely been watching the San Antonio Spurs. If you haven’t – what are you doing? Victor Wembanyama is a must-see TV.
So far, the Spurs’ generational prospect will likely make good on his potential. Wembanyama is playing like an All-Star. Granted, it’s pre-season, but the point holds – this kid looks like the league’s future.
There’s no overstating what type of impact Wembanyama could have on his organization. What should the Spurs do to build around him? Well, they could use a point guard.
The Spurs’ willingness to experiment with Jeremy Sochan at the position is admirable, but it doesn’t look like a long-term solution. Tre Jones is more of a strong reserve than a starter.
Could the Spurs acquire D’Angelo Russell of the Los Angeles Lakers this season?
NBA Trade Proposal — San Antonio Spurs Land D’Angelo Russell
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Doug McDermott, F/C Zach Collins
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G D’Angelo Russell, G/F Cam Reddish
There’s been a lot of buzz around Wembanyama. In fact, there’s been buzz about this kid for years. Wembanyama is the most anticipated prospect to come into the NBA since LeBron James. Now, he’ll hope to follow in James’ footsteps.
After all, James made good on his potential. Nobody could deny that. If you don’t believe that he’s the best player in NBA history, that’s fair enough.
If you don’t believe he’s one of the five greatest players of all time, you’re biased. You might be a Spurs fan. After all, James defeated the Spurs in the NBA Finals.
LATEST NBA TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Of course, you could also be a fan of the Toronto Raptors, Golden State Warriors, or any number of NBA fans. James has dashed the dreams of NBA lovers all around the league.
Could this deal help him do it one more time?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do This Deal
The Lakers won’t want to rush into this deal. Even if they wanted to, they couldn’t – the Lakers extended Russell. He’s subject to trade restrictions until further notice. In time, the Lakers may need his secondary playmaking too badly to part with him.
On the other hand, the Lakers did sign Gabe Vincent this season. If he’s sufficing as their point guard, they may be willing to part with Russell. If they’re making this deal, they’ll also want to monitor Jaxson Hayes.
If he plays well, they may not be interested in Collins. Otherwise, they may be happy to add a versatile offensive big who also provides some defensive value. Meanwhile, they’ll be happy to add an elite shooter like McDermott.
LATEST NBA TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
James has always thrived alongside specialists like him. Finally, if Reddish hasn’t been useful, this deal has the Lakers bolstering their depth by flipping one rotation player for two.
Should the Spurs compromise their depth?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do This Deal
Collins is a good player. He may not have a place in San Antonio. Wembanyama is obviously entrenched as a long-term starter. Sochan may eventually return to the frontcourt as well. Meanwhile, even Charles Bassey may be a more complimentary option to Wembanyama as a hard-nosed bruiser.
So, we’ve got them trading Collins. They’re also filling a positional need. We already outlined the Spurs’ need for a point guard. It is glaring. Russell would fit the bill. He’s a solid playmaker who will put the Spurs’ young players in a position to succeed.
If the Spurs have any reservations here, they’ll be concerned about winning too early. Some will suggest that the Spurs should slow down and play the lottery one more time.
LATEST NBA TRADE RUMORS: D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
That’s fair, but at the same time, Wembanyama looks ready to start contributing to winning as a rookie. If you’ve been watching him, you’ve probably come to the same conclusion.
