5 Things Spurs must immediately do the minute free agency begins

San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama
San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama / Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 5
Next Slide

3. Improve defense

The Spurs had the worst defensive rating in the NBA last season at 119.6, and it was the worst one in league history. Offensive numbers are exploding, but San Antonio cannot be last in the league and expect to make a playoff push.

Victor Wembanyama is an elite defender, rim protector, and shot-blocker. He will instantly improve the Spurs' defense. How much? The 19-year-old will play mostly power forward in year one as he looks to fill into his body. Coach Pop will use him plenty to swat shots at the rim, but he won’t be matching up against the league’s biggest players.

San Antonio must upgrade their perimeter defense this summer, and there will be plenty of strong options available in free agency. Can the Spurs convince someone like Grant Williams or Bruce Brown to leave a contender to play next to Wemby? It won’t be easy, but expect them to try.

San Antonio will also be searching the trade market here. They want to keep Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson, but the Spurs have more draft picks than they can make. Do not be surprised to see them package up a few for a strong 3-and-D wing. They need help and now is the time to acquire someone. The Nets have a glut of wings and make for the perfect trade partner.