San Antonio Spurs: 5 Things to do the minute free agency begins

5. The Spurs must handle their free agents wisely

Spurs fans had plenty to say about what should be done with the upcoming free agents. By and large, most seemed ready to part with Rudy Gay and DeMar DeRozan. Most were in favor of bringing Patty Mills back for one last run or two, given what he means for the community and how long he's been with the organization.

Personally, I also believe it's time for Gay and DeRozan to seek better opportunities while also allowing for the Spurs to give more playing time to younger guys. I think San Antonio could still make it work with DeMar, but it would take an influx of shooters and a slightly reduced role for him. All of that happening isn't likely.

I'm torn on bringing back Mills. I realize he's the only remnant of the 2014 championship team other than the coaching staff, but I also feel like he can be a serious liability when his jumper isn't falling. He'll always be a San Antonio legend, but his departure would only open up minutes for guys like Tre Jones. I'd be ok with the Spurs bringing him back for cheap but am also totally fine with letting him go to a contender.

Rudy Gay played well to end last season but ultimately takes too many shots away from guys like Devin Vassell, Luka Samanic, and Keldon Johnson. He offers size, one-on-one playmaking, and rebounding, but not enough to warrant bringing him back for another season. He deserves a title, and maybe he can find one in free agency.

As for DeMar, the best-case scenario would be the Spurs being able to find a sign-and-trade partner. It doesn't look likely the he'll be returning to the Alamo City, especially since he's recently talked about his need to focus on winning a title soon. Even if they don't get equal value, San Antonio might as well obtain any assets they can get for someone that seems ready to move onto the next chapter in his NBA career.

The eyes of San Antonio and fans across the world will be on the Spurs' front office on Monday evening, and they need to show some initiative. If they take some chances, show aggression, and act wisely, we might see the NBA Playoffs return to the AT&T Center in 2022.