3 Trades that make Spurs instant contenders after drafting Victor Wembanyama

ByTyler Watts|
San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama
San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama | Jean Catuffe/GettyImages
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2. Spurs go star hunting to land Dame

Damian Lillard wants to be a Blazer for life, but it could be time for the seven-time All-Star to move on and chase a ring after Portland missed the playoffs two straight years. If Dame becomes available, the Spurs should go all-in to acquire one of the league’s best point guards.

San Antonio Spurs LogoSan Antonio Spurs
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Damian Lillard
Portland Trail Blazers LogoPortland Trail Blazers
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Devin Vassell
Doug McDermott
4 1st round picks

Yes, Vassell is 22 years old and coming off a year where he averaged 18.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.1 steals. He is an outstanding player with room to grow, but he is never going to be a superstar. With Vassell and Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs hope to reach the Play-In Tournament. They will be far from contenders, but adding Lillard could push San Antonio into the West's top six in Wemby’s rookie campaign.

Vassell was limited to just 38 games last season because of knee issues, which are just one more reason to make this deal. Spurs fans are likely having flashbacks to Kawhi’s early knee injuries, and they continue to wreak havoc on his career. Yes, four first-round picks and a young two-way wing is a massive price, but San Antonio will have to beat the other offers on the table, and they certainly have the draft capital to pull this off.

Damian Lillard may not become available this summer, but the San Antonio Spurs could certainly add an All-Star point guard that will.