Spurs' most glaring needs after the first week of free agency

1. Trade Keldon Johnson

Keldon Johnson has had some great moments in San Antonio. Since he joined the team, Johnson has become a fan favorite, with his energy being praised by those around him. If he is ever traded, he will be missed in that regard.

From a basketball perspective, it could be the opposite. Johnson had a great season in 2022-2023, and he seemed like he was on his way to being one of the better options on this team. However, he often tries too hard on the court. His sloppy offense and inability to guard without trouble caused havoc and eventually hurt the team.

Sure, Johnson can hit a timely shot on some nights, but his sloppy play offensively and his inability to guard without trouble are cause for concern. It is evident why Johnson started in just 27 of the 69 games he played in.

If KJ is in San Antonio for another year, it would hurt the offense. Johnson takes the ball out of the hands of guys like Devin Vassell (the team's true No. 2 option) and Paul, who will look to direct the offense this season. Castle could also be negatively affected if Johnson were to remain a Spur. San Antonio must try and trade the former Kentucky Wildcat before they end up losing him for nothing. A desperate team could take a chance on Johnson and send the Spurs a fair return package.

Even if Johnson is not traded for a star player, the Spurs are seemingly fine with stockpiling draft capital. So if Keldon is traded for assets or to relieve cap space, that would still be a win for the Spurs. When you look at it from that perspective, the Spurs would benefit from trading Johnson, and the sooner the better.

The Spurs, being the professional team that they are, could do what they did to DeJounte Murray and Derrick White years ago and send Johnson into a good situation. Nonetheless, the Spurs must trade Keldon Johnson for the betterment of the team.

All in all, San Antonio has a lot going for them in the coming years. Even in 2024, the team will be heavily improved, judging by the moves they have already made (link). Not to mention, Wembanyama will keep growing into a league favorite right before our eyes. Basketball in San Antonio is back, but there is still work to be done for this team to compete in the Western Conference.