History has a way of repeating itself. That’s as true in the NBA as it is anywhere else. Teams may follow a certain format, and in time, they may follow that format again.
Take the San Antonio Spurs. They once built a dynasty by drafting a generational big man named Tim Duncan. Now, the Spurs are looking to build another dynasty around Victor Wembanyama.
With that said, Duncan didn’t carry the Spurs on his own. They had a lot of success by pairing him with a burly, muscular big man in David Robinson. Could they repeat history by acquiring Deandre Ayton of the Portland Trail Blazers?
NBA Trade Proposal
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G/F Keldon Johnson, G Devonte’ Graham
San Antonio Spurs Receive: C Deandre Ayton
History repeats itself. So, we should listen to it. Sometimes, that means breaking from history to forge a new path.
Take the Blazers. They’re also looking to build on their previous model. For years, they were built around Damian Lillard. Now, the Blazers are looking to build around another small point guard in Scoot Henderson.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
That’s fine. Henderson has impressive upside. Still, the Blazers didn’t seriously contend for a title during the Lillard era. Does this deal have them learning from past mistakes?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
Let’s be honest – it’s too early for Portland to learn from mistakes. Wembanyama has established himself as a clear cornerstone during his rookie year. On the other hand, Henderson has been largely disappointing.
That doesn’t mean that Portland can’t start thinking about the group around him. This team has an excessive number of guards, and they’re light on wings. Granted, this deal doesn’t have them giving up a guard, but Johnson could be the type of 3-and-D wing and secondary creator that this team needs.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Will they miss Ayton? Perhaps. Although, it’s worth adding that his performance has been disappointing in 2023-24 as well. Should the Spurs be interested in him?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
Ayton has been disappointing this year. At this rate, it doesn’t look like he’ll ever be a primary offensive option. With that said, that’s not what the Spurs need from him. What do they need at the 5?
Someone who does the dirty work. Ayton can handle the task. He’s a huge body who gobbles up rebounds. Ayton also creates ample space with his screen setting on the offensive end.
Meanwhile, it seems that Wembanyama would prefer to play the 4 alongside a player like Ayton. The Spurs should do whatever they can to appease their franchise player.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Deandre Ayton, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
Finally, the Spurs can part with Johnson. He’s got a similar profile to Devin Vassell. Typically, teams look to diversify their roster – historically speaking, anyway.
