3 Trades to put Spurs one step from contention after adding Victor Wembanyama

2. Celtics shed salary as Spurs add talent

The NBA’s new second tax apron (subscription required) will have significant implications across the league. It will keep the highest-spending teams from upgrading their rosters which will force them to curtail their payroll. It is still unknown what penalties teams will face this summer, but Boston could look to keep Grant Williams and prepare for Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown’s extensions.

Pritchard wants to be traded (subscription required), and moving Brogdon allows the Celtics to use their mid-level exception and pay Grant Williams while staying under the second apron. Boston wants to contend for a championship next season, but they will have to prioritize their spending moving forward.

Brogdon is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year. He is a smart player that should thrive as a scorer, floor spacer, and playmaker in Pop’s system.

Pritchard’s opportunities were inconsistent in Boston, but the 6’1 guard has shown flashes of being an elite shooter. The Spurs need a point guard, so the 25-year-old should get plenty of chances to prove himself. Can he shine in a larger role and add to his value?

This move is not perfect for the Spurs, but it brings more talent to San Antonio and puts them one key move away from becoming contenders with Victor Wembanyama.