SA Spurs: 4 storylines that can't be ignored next season

Lonnie Walker’s impending restricted free agency is right around the corner

Lonnie Walker is arguably the most talented member of the Spurs, though his play hasn't always reflected it thus far. He’ll have plenty of incentive to play better next season, though, due to his upcoming restricted free agency.

Assuming that he plays well, San Antonio would benefit from Walker’s scoring and playmaking, something that the team will definitely need more of next season. On the other hand, if Walker were to fail to show any meaningful improvement, then I believe that he could struggle to find a significant offer from outside teams in restricted free agency.

If this were the case, he'd likely return to the Spurs, though would probably no longer be viewed as a key part of the team's young nucleus. Another option, and in my opinion the most likely one, is that he plays well but still fails to attract much interest due to the belief that San Antonio would match any reasonable offer.

Jakob Poeltl, for example, found himself in a similar situation and is now on a team-friendly contract. Walker could also be forced to take a favorable team deal unless he truly breaks out. We'll have to wait until the season to see how Walker plays, though his performance will likely be under increased scrutiny by fans.