Spurs' best-kept offseason dream might be hiding in Naz Reid’s breakout

Naz Reid has been one of the most talked-about potential free agents for this offseason. He's already one of the most coveted players because of his size, shooting, and overall versatility. The best part is that he was an undrafted prospect, so his elevation is purely due to his dedication and hard work. That lends itself to a player with high basketball character.

In game four of the Timberwolves' first-round series against the Lakers on Sunday, Minnesota was in danger of losing until they made a run. Reid was a big part of that, making clutch baskets on back-to-back possessions, and snatching victory from the hands of Luka Doncic and LeBron James. LaLa Land's finest are on the brink of elimination as a result.

Reid's late-game performances should make him a priority for the Spurs

San Antonio has the need for a big man who can backup Victor Wembanyama, and they need shooters to space the floor for whatever lineup is on the floor at the time. Naz can help with both of those issues. He's even versatile enough to play next to Wembanyama in a similar role they envisioned for Zach Collins.

The Collins experiment didn't work because he couldn't knock down an open shot, but the idea had plenty of merit. Size is still a luxury. You can't teach height, so if you can find a wealth of players who are bigger than their opponents, but equally as skilled, you hold the advantage.

Reid is 6'9" with a wingspan of over 7'0". He defends at a high level, moving his feet well laterally and contesting shots with his elongated arms. There's no need to worry about that facet of the game. That's important if he's going to be a main cog in various lineups, especially the ones without Victor Wembanyama.

I've been a proponent of going after Guerschon Yabusele this offseason, and the 76ers' free agent may still be the better option for San Antonio. He'd likely be cheaper, also brings energy, shooting, and defense, but Reid is showing how ready he is to step up in the biggest moments during the most difficult time of the year: the NBA Playoffs.

Yabusele is one inch shorter than Reid, but also has a wingspan of over 7'0". The French big man shot 38% from three during the regular season, while Minnesota's fourth-quarter savant finished the season at 37.9%. When watching them play, Guerschon makes more splash plays, while Reid is just solid in everything he does. The Spurs would hit a home run with either player.

Naz gets an extra nod for what he's doing to the Lakers, though. They and their fan base constantly need to be humbled, and Reid is helping to do that emphatically. Bringing him in after he helps conquer LA would make him a borderline hero.

He'd have to decline his player option for the final year in his contract, or ask for a sign-and-trade, but if the Spurs come calling, he may take the chance to go play with Victor Wembanyama. We've already seen the proof that players want to play with the Alien. Maybe he's on that list.