5 Spurs who are expendable, 3 they can't afford to trade
By Tyler Watts
Expendable: Keldon Johnson
Spurs fans may not want to hear this, but Johnson may not be a long-term fit next to Victor Wembanyama. Whether they look to move him before the deadline or wait does not matter. The Spurs eventually need a different skill set around their 7’4 star.
Johnson is an inconsistent 3-point shooter with questionable defense, but he averages over four assists per game. The 6’5 forward is a bit undersized but rebounds well enough. He is not going to be the Spurs' number one scoring option, so what else can he offer the franchise? Being a secondary creator helps, but San Antonio needs him to consistently knock down shots and defend to maximize Wemby.
Keldon Johnson is an NBA starter in the first season of a four-year $74 million contract. The Spurs have a solid role player, but one that may not fit next to their best player. That should make Johnson expendable if some team is willing to give up significant value.
The San Antonio Spurs are still working out the kinks with Victor Wembanyama. Expect them to aggressively improve their roster in the summer of 2024. Wemby does not want to wait, and the front office has a ton of work to do if the Spurs are going to get into the title picture before the teenager finishes his rookie deal. Changes are coming, so stay tuned.