Spurs Must Address Key Issue Before Next Major Trade
The San Antonio Spurs are exploring trade options early in the NBA season. With much anticipation surrounding potential trades, discussions have emerged about acquiring Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, this ambitious move remains uncertain, especially as the Western Conference becomes increasingly competitive.
Challenges in the Western Conference
The defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder have made a remarkable start, ranking as the second-best in NBA history. This intensifies the need for the Spurs to enhance their roster to contend effectively. If the Spurs aspire to secure a top-four seed in the playoffs, they may face formidable opponents like the Thunder in the later rounds. To mitigate this risk, improvements are essential, whether through player health or strategic trades.
Critical Defensive Concerns
Despite having talents like Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, the Spurs’ defense has shown vulnerabilities, particularly in perimeter coverage. Opposing teams are capitalizing on this weakness, shooting an alarming 38.3% from beyond the arc, which ranks as the third-worst percentage in the league. This deficiency undermines the team’s otherwise solid interior defense.
Areas for Improvement
The Spurs need to focus on two crucial areas:
- Limiting open three-point shots.
- Maximizing the defensive potential of Wembanyama, who stands at 7’5″ with a remarkable 8-foot wingspan.
Stronger perimeter defense could significantly bolster the Spurs’ overall team performance.
Potential Trade Targets for the Spurs
One player who stands out as a potential trade target is Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans. Jones is regarded as one of the top wing defenders in the league and was previously named to an All-Defensive First Team. However, he faced setbacks last season, missing 62 games and starting slowly this year, which might make him available as the Pelicans consider rebuilding.
Trade Costs and Benefits
Acquiring Jones could cost the Spurs Jeremy Sochan and possibly one or two first-round draft picks. Yet, integrating Jones into the lineup could significantly enhance their defensive capabilities. Having a top-three defense is essential for any team aiming for a deep playoff run, and Jones could be a key asset in achieving this goal.
The Shooting Factor
While Sochan offers defensive strength, his shooting lacks the consistency needed for extended playtime. Jones, although not a prolific three-point shooter, has a career shooting percentage of 36.3% from beyond the arc. His proficiency rises to nearly 40% on corner threes, an area where he could flourish alongside Wembanyama and other offensive contributors.
Future Considerations for the Spurs
The Spurs are expected to adopt a thoughtful approach in the coming months as they assess their roster’s performance and health. They may need to prioritize defensive upgrades and seek additional shooting options. If Herb Jones remains available, he could be an ideal fit unless a more compelling opportunity arises before the trade deadline.
