3 way-too-early trade deadline targets if Spurs stumble out of the gate

2) Trae Young

At the moment, it seems that Atlanta guard Trae Young is unlikely to be traded this upcoming season due to the Hawks not owning their first-round pick and not having any incentive to tank. Despite that, it's not impossible to think that he might be available again next season.

He could improve his trade value during the first half of next season and get a team to offer more than they had during the summer. Or, the Hawks realize that he may not re-sign with Atlanta after the end of the 2025–26 season, when he can become a free agent.

In that case, they may see what they can get rather than risk Young potentially affecting his trade value by having his agent hint that he wouldn't re-sign with certain interested teams. The Spurs could circle around and make an offer, possibly even dangling Atlanta's 2025 first in their face, especially if the pick doesn't appear likely to be in the top five.

Adding Young mid-season would give San Antonio's playoff chances a shot in the arm and give them a season and a half to see how he fits before having to pay him. If Young becomes available again during the 2024–25 season, they should jump at the chance to acquire him.