Spurs’ trade deadline plan for Kelly Olynyk is painfully obvious

At this point, the Spurs' rotation is complete—for now. Head Coach Mitch Johnson has just about figured everything out, and when his lineup is healthy, he knows who will be playing and who will not. One player acquired this offseason who has seen his playing time decline is Kelly Olynyk. With only so many minutes to go around, the skilled veteran is on the outside looking in.

While Olynyk has found himself outside the Spurs' regularly scheduled rotation, that doesn't mean he isn't talented or deserving of time on the court. Make no mistake, General Manager Brian Wright acquired him for a reason. With that, the writing is on the wall for the big man to be moved before February's trade deadline.

Kelly Olynyk can easily fit into another teams rotation

It is simply unlucky for Olynyk that the Silver and Black house Victor Wembanyama and Luke Kornet. The pair of bigs is too good to take any minutes away from to create a three-big rotation. Yet still, when the Alien has missed time, Kelly has stepped in and played valiantly off the Spurs bench.

The journeyman center was originally acquired by the Spurs because of his ability to put the ball in the cup. Olynyk has shown to be a viable three-point shooter and has a nifty game inside. With age-old footwork, the 34-year-old can score around the rim in a variety of different ways. Over time, the veteran has improved as a great passer and rebounder as well.

With his unique and versatile skillset, Olynyk can most certainly find minutes elsewhere across the NBA. For teams looking to find a strong, offensive big man to come off their bench, the Spurs outcast would be perfect. I could easily name 5-6 teams that would love to have him.

The Spurs can acquire a piece that fits better

While Olynyk won't return a massive package, the Spurs could use him as a trade chip to acquire a player who makes more sense in a playoff rotation.

As it stands, the Spurs are missing viable skill sets at both guard and forward on the bench. Instead of rostering a nearly useless third big man, San Antonio could bring in a player who can play every night.

Across the trade market, there are several interesting options to choose from. The Spurs will be on the hunt for more shooting, ball handling, and defensive versatility. Whether it's a new guard to pair alongside Dylan Harper on the bench or a power forward to relieve Harrison Barnes, Olynyk can help bring in somebody who will have a greater impact.

Nearly set in stone, Kelly Olynyk won't be playing for the Spurs much longer. We appreciate him for the time he gave us, but now he will be able to help the team in a different way. I have full trust that Brian Wright can make an impactful, long-lasting move to push the team further into contention.