There's a lot happening in the NBA right now. From the rookie draft to the ongoing trades, the offseason is full of head-turning updates. Of course, with all the busy activity comes the rumors. Many speculate about potential trades and free-agent signings, and one of the teams being highly talked about is the San Antonio Spurs.
The Spurs are currently focused on one task: building around Victor Wembanyama. They just drafted Stephon Castle on Wednesday, adding another weapon beside their prized Frenchman. And by trading away Rob Dillingham, San Antonio acquired another future pick at their expense. Presently, it looks like the team's next move might be pairing Wemby with a former All-Star center, namely, Brook Lopez.
An article by Matt Moore of The Action Network brings up the rumor.
“The Bucks aren't being secretive about their designs on reshaping the roster, with Doc Rivers believing the core that contended between 2021 and 2024 needs a shake-up,” Moore wrote. “Brook Lopez is most consistently the name brought up as involved in discussions, with San Antonio among the interested teams.”
How ideal is a Brook Lopez trade?
Lopez has been a key starter for Milwaukee, averaging 12.5 points and 5.2 rebounds in the recently concluded season. Back during the Bucks' 2022-23 campaign, the big man was named to the All-Defensive First Team. He was also part of the Milwaukee's 2021 title victory.
While this all sounds nice, a potential Lopez trade is still somewhat baffling. After all, if the Spurs want role players that match Wembanyama's age timeline, then acquiring a 36-year-old isn't the most ideal decision.
One could argue that every young team needs a seasoned vet, and how Lopez could be just that for San Antonio. Still, what would it cost the Spurs to get the center? Lopez will definitely have quite the asking price, looking at how he continues to be productive for the Wisconsin-based squad. If the Spurs make a push for the big man, they'll have to give up valuable assets.
All things considered, it remains to be seen how this could possibly play out smoothly.
The Spurs continue to fortify Wembanyama's supporting cast
Going back to the topic of Wemby's supporting cast, as mentioned earlier, Stephon Castle just bolstered the team's backcourt. An NCAA Champion with UConn, Castle averaged 16.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 4.3 assists with the Huskies. The guard will undoubtedly play a major role in the upcoming season, and many even predict that he'll be inserted into the starting lineup immediately.
The Rob Dillingham trade might be questionable to some fans, but adding another future pick gives San Antonio more flexibility for shakeups in the coming years as Wembanyama continues to grow into his prime. The Spurs have a long-term vision, and Wednesday's draft marked another step forward.