The Spurs are going to need to address several positions in free agency, none more important than the backup center position. Bismack Biyombo filled in admirably when San Antonio needed a body, but his time in the 210 is likely over, as it should be.
In 28 games with the Silver and Black, Biyombo averaged 5.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.8 blocks in 18.9 minutes per game. SA's next backup big will need to give them much more than that. To be fair to the former Hornets big man, he came off the couch to help out the team when they needed help. He wasn't expected to dominate.
That also means it's no insult to move on from him. With San Antonio's sights set on making the playoffs next season for the first time in over half a decade, they must be intentional with each player put into rotation. They have the space to add to this roster, and they get to draft a player or two this week, plus trades can develop at any time. They'll do their due diligence, and the team will see some necessary upgrades.
1 trade target, 1 draft prospect, 1 free agent for the Spurs to consider
Brook Lopez - Free agency
Brook Lopez is 37 years old, like KD will be by the time the season starts, but he's no Kevin Durant, so he could be had for a much cheaper price. He's an unrestricted free agent. Lopez will get you double-digit points, block a couple of shots a game, and is a veteran with plenty of playoff experience.
It's currently unclear what the champion center will do as he'll have plenty of suitors, but his 37% three-point shooting would be useful in San Antonio. He'll get plenty of minutes because they'll need him to stretch the floor in a variety of lineups, and he could even play a few minutes a night with Wemby.
Naz Reid - Extend & trade
This one is a little complicated because of the apron rules implemented by the CBA. I won't bore you with the details, but basically, Reid would need to opt in to the final year of his contract, so he and Minnesota could work out an extension in which he would then be traded to the Spurs for Keldon Johnson. It's a variation of a classic "sign-and-trade" deal.
The Wolves wouldn't lose him for nothing if he walked; SA would get him on a reasonable contract, and he'd be locked up long-term. If he goes into free agency and Brian Wright targets him, he'd have to win a bidding war, which means a higher price tag. This would be the most cost-effective route to adding a perfect complement to the entire roster.
Thomas Sorber - Draft
Thomas Sorber is 6'10" with a 7'6" wingspan. He's athletic, has a smooth shooting stroke, and defends the rim vigorously. There have been rumors suggesting San Antonio may move the number 14 pick, but if they keep it, Sorber would be a fantastic option.
He was injured last season in college and missed a large chunk of the season. He'd likely be a higher pick otherwise. I'm really high on this kid and believe the Spurs should jump at the chance to put him behind Wembanyama if given the opportunity.
These are only a few of the many options San Antonio has to improve the roster. They desperately need a backup big they can rely on. If they can grab any of these guys, it'll be a home run.