5 No-brainer trades Spurs should make before the deadline

2. Spurs get a long-term piece in the backcourt

Grimes is back in trade rumors and could be on the move before the deadline. The 23-year-old has seen his minutes and production dip this season as the Knicks have continued to upgrade their roster. Grimes averaged 11.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 29.9 minutes per game in 2023. Several teams figured to be interested, and New York may be able to get a significant haul.

New York has had injuries at the five and could be searching for a reserve big man. How much would head coach Tom Thibodeau trust Charles Bassey? Likely not much, but he is a 6’10 big man to eat minutes for the Knicks. The Spurs also have several first-round picks available, but one unprotected could be enough to get this trade done.

Grimes is known as a stout defender and plus shooter. The 23-year-old is still getting better and could shine in the Alamo playing off Victor Wembanyama. He would not solve the Spurs point guard woes, but Grimes could be a key floor spacer and defender in their second unit immediately.

The Spurs need more talent. Getting a young guard capable of filling a crucial role is enticing, but their front office may opt for a blockbuster move before the Feb. 8 deadline.