With a multitude of veterans surrounding the young core of the San Antonio Spurs, the team could sell off some of their talents to a contender ahead of the NBA trade deadline. Harrison Barnes and Chris Paul offer obvious value, Zach Collins has earned ire from fans and might be shipped out, and Keldon Johnson, the longest-tenured Spur, has long been included in trade rumors.
Johnson's inclusion makes sense. He is on a descending contract though 2026-27, which makes him easy to move, and he is clearly a talented bench player, although his fit next to the young core is questionable, so a change of scenery might do him well.
The majority of mock trades Johnson has been included in feature the Spurs bringing back a similar player, one who is also not a great fit on their current team, like Anfernee Simons. Of course, the Spurs could package Johnson, other players, and draft picks for a superstar, but that seems like a far-fetched move that won't happen before February 6.
According to FanSided's Michael Saenz, trading away Johnson is the most likely move the Spurs will make this winter, although he doesn't think Johnson needs to be sent away.
"However, one player that could be on the chopping block that I wouldn't suggest the Spurs trade (at least not at this year's trade deadline) is Keldon Johnson," he wrote. "I believe there would be a much greater value in trading him during the offseason rather than rushing to make a move at the deadline."
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That line of thinking makes sense. Johnson is averaging a career-low 28.6 percent shooting from deep and only 12.7 points per game, the lowest since his rookie season. Right now, his value is at an all-time low, but if he can find his footing as the season goes on and establish himself as a premier trade target heading into the offseason, pulling the trigger down the road would make much more sense for the Spurs.
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This story was originally published December 11, 2024, 12:14 PM.