The San Antonio Spurs' offseason may be just about done, but an intriguing new rumor could gift them the perfect target. Golden State Warriors veteran power forward Draymond Green opted out of his contract to try and help them land a star.
However, after they struck out, they re-signed him to a one-year deal. Despite that, Warriors insider Marcus Thompson believes Golden State may consider moving him at some point next season if they get off to a poor start.
The Warriors project to be one of the worst teams in the West, so it seems like a safe bet that he could eventually become available. If he does indeed hit the trade block, he could be an intriguing (and controversial) trade target for the Spurs.
Never mind that he is one of the most polarizing players in the NBA, Green could still help the Spurs.
Draymond Green would be an intriguing trade target for the Spurs
Green, despite being a limited offensive player, is still a talented playmaker. He is also still a terrific defender. A versatile one too, with him even giving Wembanyama fits last season.
I wouldn't expect him to start, but he could still make a big impact on a contender. Perhaps on the Spurs? They have already done a lot to bolster their frontcourt rotation over the summer.
Ironically, they chose to get even younger by adding two rookie centers to the mix while getting rid of several veterans. That might be for the best but it's still a gamble relying on a rookie such as Tarris Reed Jr.
Depending on how things turn out, San Antonio might need a veteran like Green. One who could give them an edge when things get physical and add plenty of championship experience.
Would the Spurs trade for the Warriors' Draymond Green?
A hypothetical trade could see San Antonio send out Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes, and Jordan McLaughlin for Green. That trade wouldn't be without risks given Johnson is still a crucial part of the team.
Of course, if Carter Bryant leap frogs him in the rotation, then he might be expendable. It's also worth mentioning that Johnson, Barnes, and McLaughlin will all be on expiring contracts, and none project to be back after next season.
If Green is available and it's clear that San Antonio needs a shake-up, then Green would be a wild-card addition. He might not be better than Johnson, but he'd fit a different role as a distributor and defensive stopper.
How would Draymond Green fit on the Spurs?
Had the Spurs had him during last year's playoff run, Green might have defended the likes of Julius Randle, Chet Holmgren, and Karl-Anthony Towns. San Antonio did just fine against those players but struggled at times to match other team's psyicality. That wouldn't be a problem with Green.
Yes, there would be spacing concerns, but Johnson played poorly in the postseason on both ends, and Barnes and McClaugin barely played. A potential lineup consisting of De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Green, and Wembanyama could be terrific in five-minute stretches.
Especially defensively, while being more than passable on offense. Particularly if Wembanyama and Castle continue to improve offensively and Fox improves to the mean.
All told, if Green hits the trade block, the Spurs should be interested. If they are willing to take a gamble on him, he could give them something they're missing.
