13 San Antonio Spurs potential free agent targets with ties to Gregg Popovich

9. Josh Richardson

Richardson has played on six different teams in the last five seasons. He was the Sixers' return for Jimmy Butler in the 2019 trade as multiple teams were excited about the 6’5" wings potential after a breakout season where he averaged 16.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 34.8 minutes per game. J-Rich was the ideal 3-and-D wing, but he has not been able to recreate those numbers.

The Sixers traded him to Dallas. The Mavericks sent him to the Celtics. Boston signed him to an extension before trading him to San Antonio, who dealt him to New Orleans at the 2023 trade deadline. Richardson often underperforms expectations, but the Spurs just got four second-round picks for him, in part because they took on Devonte Graham’s contract.

Josh Richardson is an unrestricted free agent this summer, and he will be searching for at least the mid-level exception. To get more, he would have to sign with a rebuilding team. J-Rich would likely be a trade candidate at the deadline, but that could give the 29-year-old the most money and a chance to contend.

The Spurs traded Josh Richardson in part to give additional minutes to their young wings, so do not expect them to be eager to re-sign him. Coach Pop did help J-Rich find his playmaking ability, and the 6’5" wing would likely be interested in a reunion if the Spurs have interest this summer.