4. Clint Capela
Capela’s name continues to be in trade rumors because the Hawks have Onyeka Okongwu waiting in the wings. Capela is an outstanding rebounder and pick-and-roll partner for Trae Young, but Okongwu is entering the final year of his rookie contract and hoping for an extension. Atlanta already has luxury tax concerns, and they cannot afford to pay two centers starting-caliber money.
At 6’10 and 240 pounds, Capela could be the perfect fit next to Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio. The 29-year-old averaged 12.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 26.6 minutes per game last season. He could show the teenager how to set screens, dominate the glass, and protect the rim as he continues to play a productive role.
Capela has been a starter since 2016, but he is comfortable playing 27 minutes each night. That gives Wemby protection and some time to take over at the five as he learns the NBA ropes.
Clint Capela is set to make $42.8 million over the next two seasons combined, which could keep the San Antonio Spurs away. It depends on how the franchise views Wembanyama’s development. How much time does he need to grow before taking over the position? If the answer is one year, the Spurs might steer clear of Capela and go for a rental.