As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the San Antonio Spurs may consider bolstering their roster by adding another candidate for the Sixth Man of the Year award. While the Spurs are unlikely to disrupt their current successful core or sacrifice their valuable draft assets, a strategic move on the margins could enhance their rotation and address specific needs as they prepare for their first playoff push since 2018.
One intriguing candidate is Boston Celtics sharpshooter Anfernee Simons, who could provide an excellent opportunity for the Spurs. Simons is currently averaging 14 points, with 2.4 rebounds and assists per game. Notably, he is making 2.6 three-pointers per game at an impressive 39.5% shooting efficiency, which mirrors leading Spurs players Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson. His ability to play both on and off the ball makes him a versatile asset.
The potential addition of Simons could create more space on the floor, allowing for improved offensive flow around rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs’ drive-oriented guards, De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper. Simons has demonstrated his scoring prowess, as shown in a recent standout performance where he scored a season-high 39 points.
Despite his contributions to a Celtics team exceeding expectations in the Eastern Conference, Boston may be motivated to trade Simons for a couple of reasons. While he has played a vital role in their collective success, the Celtics are looking to reinforce their frontcourt, potentially seeking a starting center to bolster their playoff aspirations. Additionally, trading Simons, who has an expiring contract, could help alleviate their financial burden, given the team’s existing luxury tax issues.
Reportedly, Boston has engaged in discussions to trade Simons, originally acquired to manage their salary cap, even considering offers that included a first-round pick in exchange for other players. The challenge for the Celtics will be finding a deal that aligns with their aspirations without jeopardizing their current roster’s synergy.
The suggestion on the table for the Spurs involves trading Jeremy Sochan and Kelly Olynyk to Boston in exchange for Simons. This deal would not only enhance the Spurs’ shooting capabilities but also assist the Celtics in significant financial savings, with a total value of about $27.5 million. By trading both Sochan and Olynyk, who have fallen out of the Spurs’ rotation, San Antonio could solidify their backcourt while also not sacrificing their overall team cohesion and future flexibility.
Both teams could benefit from this potential trade arrangement. The Spurs would gain an explosive shooter to enhance their offensive strategies, while the Celtics could acquire much-needed frontcourt depth without taking a significant financial hit. This connection between two franchises underscores the dynamic nature of the NBA and the potential opportunities that arise as teams navigate their paths toward the playoffs.
As the deadline nears, Spurs fans can remain optimistic that their team will make prudent moves that not only bolster their chances this season but also lay the groundwork for sustained success in the future.