Grade the Mock Trade: Spurs get center insurance and help Trail Blazers breathe

The San Antonio Spurs became one of the biggest winners of the offseason from the moment they secured Victor Wembanyama with the first overall pick of the 2023 NBA Draft and cemented him as the face of their franchise. Gregg Popovich and the front office could rest easy at night knowing the teenage phenom gives them a centerpiece to build around for years to come, but they have tons of work to do before this roster is ready to compete for a championship.

Despite rumors the team was interesed in bringing veteran centers aboard to bolster their frontcourt lineup alongside Wembanyama, San Antonio has sat on the sidelines in the free agent frenzy, instead taking care of some housekeeping duties by re-signing Tre Jones, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Julian Champagnie. Although some fans have been disappointed to see the Spurs playing things safe, there is still plenty of time for them to make a splash later this offseason.

Without any significant additions up to this point, the Silver and Black are looking at a big man depth chart that consists of Zach Collins, Khem Birch, Charles Bassey, Dominick Barlow, and Mamu. With a handful of talented youngsters among that group, San Antonio could trot out numerous lineups that complement Wembanyama on both ends of the court. However, most of those names are unproven, and it still feels like they are missing someone that ties everything together.

The organization seems fine exercising patience and taking things slowly as they figure out a timeline that best suits Wembanyama. With that said, a recent article from Bleacher Report suggests they call up the Portland Trail Blazers to make a trade that fulfills their reported wish to slot a traditional bruiser next to their once-in-a-lifetime prospect.