4 tantalizing Keldon Johnson trade scenarios that may net the Spurs a star

3) Dejounte Murray

If the Hawks decide to hold on to star guard Trae Young, the Spurs could and should pivot to re-acquiring Dejounte Murray. San Antonio was reportedly interested in Murray ahead of the trade deadline but no deal materialized. However, after the season, the Spurs could revisit the idea of bringing Murray back and pairing him with Wembanyama.

After all, the Spurs are in need of a starting point guard, and Murray would fit the bill. Not only that but he is under contract for four more years and has experience playing for Coach Gregg Popovich, with whom he is still close after being traded from San Antonio. Those are all benefits, plus he'd likely cost less to acquire than Young.

A package of Johnson, Atlanta's 2025 first, and Charlotte's 2027 first for Murray would be a competitive offer. Moving Johnson for Murray might be unpopular but swapping them for one another would allow the Spurs to effectively offset most of Murray's salary over the next three seasons. It may also save the Spurs from having to give up another future first by including Johnson. 

Adding Murray back to the fold would give the Spurs a true pick-and-roll point guard who can help get their best player, Wembanyama, the ball. While his defense has slipped, he has the size and length needed to still be good on that end of the floor, and Wembanyama can help him by shutting down the paint.

Offensively, Murray is still a good shooter from mid-range but has upped his number of 3-point attempts to more than seven per game while shooting above league average. That has improved his efficiency, resulting in him having his best offensive season. If available, the Spurs should look to bring Murray home.