Takeaway #3: The Spurs are asset-rich but could get even richer by trading veterans.
The Spurs have quietly amassed an impressive haul of draft picks in a relatively short amount of time by making a series of shrewd moves. For instance, they signed and traded DeMar DeRozan to the Chicago Bulls in a deal that netted them the Bulls’ 2025 first-round pick and Thaddeus Young.
They then traded Young and a second-round pick for what became the 20th pick in the 2022 NBA draft. Moves like these have helped the Spurs collect a total of 13 first-round picks in the next seven drafts. Better yet, they can add even more first-rounders if they move their three veterans, Doug McDermott, Josh Richardson, and Poeltl. Each player has played well for them this season, and each could be worth a first-round pick if the Spurs decide to go that route.
If they do, then they’d also improve their selection in the 2023 draft and could have an embarrassment of riches going forward depending on how the draft lottery shakes out. Were they to land a top-two pick, then they’d still have all of those assets to work with to continue to build up their roster and eventually turn themselves into a title contender.