Victor Wembanyama looks to be as good as advertised. The rest of the NBA is officially on notice: this kid might change basketball. The San Antonio Spurs are certainly counting their blessings.
Wembanyama’s ability hasn’t resulted in winning basketball yet. That’s to be expected. He’s only 19. The Spurs don’t need to worry about their record – yet.
At the same time, the NBA is changing. Recently, it’s felt like Wembanyama is growing tired of losing. The Spurs may not want to prolong their rebuild any longer than necessary.
With that in mind, the Spurs could make a trade for a young star in a bid to accelerate their rebuild.
How about Anfernee Simons of the Portland Trail Blazers?
NBA Trade Proposal: San Antonio Spurs Land Portland Trail Blazers’ Anfernee Simons
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G/F Keldon Johnson, F Julian Champagnie, 2025 First-Round Pick (ATL via SAS)
San Antonio Spurs Receive: G Anfernee Simons
The NBA is changing. Players used to stick with the same team for most – if not all – of their careers. In today’s league, it’s remarkable if a player has been on the same team for half a decade. If you don’t believe us, just ask the Blazers.
Damian Lillard was the face of this franchise for almost a decade. It felt as if Lillard was going to retire in Blazers red. In the end, even Lillard left Portland. Now, he’s a member of the Milwaukee Bucks.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
The Spurs should consider this a cautionary tale. Sure, Wembanyama grew up a fan of the organization. He seemed happy to land there. If the Spurs don’t put a solid product around him, his mood could change.
Would trading for Simons keep him happy?
Why The San Antonio Spurs Do The Deal
We’re not saying the Spurs need to rush. They don’t. They could let this season play out, finish near the top of the lottery, and in all likelihood, they wouldn’t alienate Wembanyama.
Still, trading for a young star would make sense. Simons is still just 24. Moreover, the upcoming draft is perceived to be weak. Who could the Spurs draft who’s likely to be a better player than Simons?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
After all, he’s one of the best shooters in the NBA. Simons can also create offense for himself and his teammates. He’ll make the Spurs a better team, and if they’re smart, they can still land another foundational piece in the upcoming draft.
Should Portland set a Conference rival up for the future?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
You may be asking yourself a question. If the rebuilding Spurs are interested in Simons, why shouldn’t the rebuilding Blazers want to keep him?
Well, both of these teams theoretically landed their franchise player in the 2023 draft. Victor Wembanyama is a big, and Scoot Henderson is a guard. Simons is a good fit alongside Henderson – but so is Shaedon Sharpe.
The Blazers could try to run three-guard lineups on a full-time basis. Still, it feels possible that the best long-term grouping will feature a Henderson/Sharpe backcourt alongside a real wing.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Anfernee Simons, Portland Trail Blazers, San Antonio Spurs Updates
How about Johnson? He’s a young player with tremendous upside in his own right. He’d also give the Blazers a better roster balance. Throw in an unprotected first, and the Blazers may have to do this deal – even if it makes Wembanyama and the Spurs’ future brighter.
