Spurs' worst-case scenario may sneakily unlock perfect Wembanyama scenario

Now that the San Antonio Spurs have officially struck out on star Kevin Durant, they are free to focus on other moves to improve their roster. They desperately need more shooting, but failing to land Durant comes with a silver lining.

The Spurs striking out on Durant could trigger their backup plan, which is basically to trust Victor Wembanyama and company to figure things out next season. That alone is actually risky considering the potential incompatibility of the roster, but there are some benefits to that as well.

Spurs worst-case scenario may be the best for Wembanyama

Not having to share the ball with Durant keeps Wembanyama as the main focus of their roster. While the Spurs' roster likely would be questionable considering the lack of shooting, Wembanyama could still potentially carry the Spurs to the playoffs next season.

After all, despite his initial struggles to start the 2024-25 season, once his 3-point shot came around, he was terrific on offense, averaging 24.5 points per game. Even as his then undiagnosed DVT sapped him of his stamina, he still put up solid numbers.

With better talent around him next season, an extended break with him not playing a game since February, and off-season development, he could be much better next season. Especially if the Spurs make smaller moves to maximize their roster's potential.

The Spurs must help Victor Wembanyama with roster upgrades

The Spurs keeping both the second and 14th picks gives them an immediate opportunity. Drafting Dylan Harper and another prospect such as Carter Bryant or Rasheer Fleming would give them the perfect blend of young talent with long-term potential.

Harper is elite at getting to the rim and gives the Spurs not one but three slashers. That will help to collapse defenses and get Wembanyama open shots on the perimeter or easier baskets if he masters an underrated skill.

As far as new additions, they would have full access to both the mid-level exception (MLE) and bi-annual exception (BLE) to sign or trade for players. They could sign a backup center who can keep the Spurs from imploding when Wembanyama is off the floor. Luke Kornet comes to mind as a massive center who can rebound, pass, swat shots, and finish as a roll man.

Trade options include Cam Johnson, who could be a Super Saiyan version of Harrison Barnes if paired with Wembanyama in the starting lineup. Trading the 14th pick or the Atlanta Hawks' first plus Keldon Johnson would make a lot of sense.

A projected starting lineup of Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Johnson, and Wembanyama would be stellar. It would have enough shooting and playmaking to help make Wembanyama's life easier.

Harper, Julian Champagnie, Barnes, Sochan, and Kornet would give the Spurs a second unit with plenty of size, spacing, and defensive potential. With a better roster, better spacing, and a better Wembanyama, the Spurs should quickly forget about striking out on Durant.