Recently, we’ve seen a new type of big man dominating the NBA. Where bruisers used to roam the paint, we’re seeing long, thin centers find a lot of success. With their slimmer weight, they can be more versatile defenders.
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs may be the apex predator of the group. As a rookie, he already looks like he’s going to change basketball. Soon enough, the Spurs are going to have to get him some help.
That’s likely to start with landing a starting-caliber point guard. Given how rapidly Wembanyama is developing, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Spurs opt for a star player in that position. How about Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers?
NBA Trade Proposal
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G/F Keldon Johnson, G Devonte’ Graham, 2025 First-Round Pick (ATL via SAS)
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G Darius Garland
Wembanyama is just one example of this new breed of big man. Chet Holmgren is finding plenty of success with the Oklahoma City Thunder. This summer, Alexandre Sarr will be joining the NBA as well.
Before all of them, there was Evan Mobley. He may have started the trend. Heading into the 2021 draft, the sell on Mobley was that he’d be an elite rim protector who could defend across positions at the same time.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
So far, Mobley has lived up to expectations. As a result, the Cavaliers are rolling. Why would they trade Garland this summer?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
The Cavaliers have a lot of talent around Mobley. Unfortunately, their roster looks a bit imbalanced. If they make a deep playoff run this season, they’ll likely live with that imbalance in 2024-25.
Let’s assume that they don’t. In that event, the Cavs may want to add to their wing depth. They may also decide that a small backcourt featuring Garland and Donovan Mitchell isn’t tenable. In that event, this deal helps them.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
After all, Johnson could be the wing they’re looking for. The Cavs could also play him in the backcourt with Mitchell and convert Mitchell into a point guard. Meanwhile, they’re picking up an unprotected first that they could use to help fill out their roster. Should the Spurs give so much up for Garland?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
Wembanyama looks tired of losing. That’s fine for now – he’s in his rookie season. With that said, the Spurs should be looking to take a step forward in 2024-25.
Adding Garland would certainly help. He’s an outstanding playmaker with a great feel for the game. Garland is also a knockdown shooter who can space the floor for Wembanyama.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
He feels like a Gregg Popovich player. Best of all, Garland is still young enough to grow with this young core. He might be the perfect player to get the most out of Victor Wembanyama.
