NBA growth is now not simply hypothesis. Experiences point out the Board of Governors may vote this summer season on including groups in Seattle and Las Vegas, setting the stage for an growth draft within the coming years.
If authorized, the format would mirror previous drafts. Every current group can shield as much as eight gamers, and the 2 new franchises would take turns deciding on from the unprotected pool. Every present group can lose just one participant.
For the San Antonio Spurs, that will not sound alarming at first look. However when you dig into the roster, the mathematics turns into uncomfortable.
Victor Wembanyama makes three protections automated for the San Antonio Spurs
There’s zero debate in regards to the franchise cornerstone. Victor Wembanyama is untouchable. So are Devin Vassell and De’Aaron Fox, who type the instant aggressive core round him. That’s three slots gone instantly.
From there, the Spurs’ youth motion forces onerous choices. Stephon Fortress and Dylan Harper are high-upside guards on rookie contracts. Each mission as long-term items subsequent to Wembanyama.
Now you’re at 5.
The ultimate three slots get difficult shortly for the San Antonio Spurs
Keldon Johnson doubtless earns safety due to his age, manufacturing, and team-friendly contract. That makes six.
Julian Champagnie has quietly developed right into a dependable rotation wing on a cut price deal, and defending cost-controlled contributors issues in growth drafts. That leaves one closing slot.
Veterans like Harrison Barnes (however has with 18 million excessive worth, although), Kelly Olynyk, Luke Kornet, and Bismack Biyombo present stability however might not align with long-term priorities. In the meantime, younger items like Carter Bryant (made an excellent showoff in the course of the dunk contest, although) or Harrison Ingram supply upside however stay unproven. The eighth slot may in the end come right down to timeline versus reliability.
Spurs are safer than OKC however not immune
In contrast to the Thunder, San Antonio is extra top-heavy. That works of their favor in an growth draft.
If a brand new group poaches a veteran like Barnes or Olynyk, it stings however doesn’t alter the franchise’s trajectory. The Spurs’ identification revolves round Wembanyama, Fox, and the rising younger core.
If a brand new group poaches a veteran like Barnes or Olynyk, it stings however doesn’t alter the franchise’s trajectory. The Spurs’ identification revolves round Wembanyama, Fox, and the rising younger core.
Nonetheless, there’s a actual danger.
If an growth group targets Johnson’s contract worth or one of many younger guards’ upside, San Antonio may lose a chunk that matches completely round Wembanyama’s timeline. Growth groups typically prioritize age and value management, not simply star energy.
Total, the Spurs are higher positioned than many contenders as a result of their hierarchy is clearer. However when you begin counting to eight, it turns into apparent that somebody significant shall be uncovered.
And in a league the place depth and growth are every little thing, even shedding one rotation-caliber participant may pressure powerful choices ahead of anticipated.
