5 Best-fit free agents the Spurs could target in 2024

2. De'Anthony Melton

Though the most fun part of free agency is undoubtedly the major moves that happen, it's often times the under-the-radar transactions that help a team get to the next level. For example, Bruce Brown was a player who had a tremendous impact on the Denver Nuggets' 2023 NBA title run, yet wasn't a hot target in free agency, the summer prior.

Not that it'd result in an immediate rise to championship contention, but if the San Antonio Spurs were to sign Philadelphia 76ers guard De'Anthony Melton next year, he could help them become a force in the playoffs.

Melton has made an impact on both the 76ers and Memphis Grizzlies over the past two seasons. In 2022, he helped Memphis earn the Western Conference's second-best record, giving them solid minutes off of the bench. Then in Philly, he proved to be a real pain for opposing teams in the postseason, before the Sixers were ultimately bounced by the Boston Celtics.

The 25-year-old guard put together a respectable 2023 campaign for the 76ers, averaging 10.1 points per game on 42.5% shooting overall and 39.0% from distance. He proved to be flexible in his role as well, starting in 58 of his 77 appearances.

Should the Spurs turn some heads this season -- perhaps overachieving --then they could serve as an appealing destination for Melton, or a player of his caliber.

The best part of the whole thing is that San Antonio wouldn't have to break the bank to sign him. It might only take a three year contract worth $45-50 million to convince the former USC standout to head to the Spurs.