The Spurs can catapult themselves into playoff contention next season

It's been a few weeks since the end of the 2023–24 NBA season, and the San Antonio Spurs have been one of the league's most active teams throughout the offseason. After a benchmark rookie year from Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have been quick to make moves to surround their superstar with talent.

In the draft, San Antonio selected Stephon Castle with the number 4 overall pick. Just two weeks later, the Silver and Black signed veteran point guard Chris Paul for a one-year, $11 million deal. San Antonio also secured Harrison Barnes and a 2031 first-round pick swap from the Sacramento Kings as part of the Demar DeRozan sign-and-trade deal with the Chicago Bulls.

While some Spurs faithful might be disappointed that the team didn't swing a trade for a star like Trae Young, it's clear that General Manager Brian Wright is taking a more gradual approach to making San Antonio a contender. But there are a few ways in which the Spurs can surprise the league and jump into a playoff spot next season.

For teams as young as the Spurs were last season, there comes a time when veteran leadership is needed to steer a team in the right direction while giving the younger players a chance to learn from their elders. Enter Chris Paul. A 12-time All-Star and an 11-time All-NBA selectee who is seen as one of the best point guards of all time. Not much needs to be said about what he brings to the table.