The San Antonio Spurs will soon gear up for the 2024–25 season and they are expected to be much better than in recent years thanks to the signing of Chris Paul. Paul gives them a huge upgrade at point guard and gives star Victor Wembanyama someone who can get him the ball.
However, Paul is only under contract for one season and, at 39 years old, may retire after next season. That calls into question who will be the Spurs' point guard of the future. While that could end up being fourth overall pick Stephon Castle, Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young has repeatedly been linked to the Spurs, but no deal has happened as of yet.
With the Hawks having traded Dejounte Murray, breaking up their All-Star backcourt, it appears unlikely that Young will be moved this season. Especially with them not owning their first-round pick (the Spurs do). However, after next season, he will only have one year remaining on his contract, which could force the Hawks to move him or risk losing him for nothing.
Trae Young's recent remarks should reawaken the Spurs' desire to trade for him.
Young recently appeared on Paul George's "Podcast P Podcast" and was asked about the type of player that he would like to play with. Based on his comments, it sounds like he prefers to play with a spaced floor and an athletic big man who can finish around the basket.
Trae Young: “I could make anybody better … you just got to get that opportunity [playing with a star].”
— Podcast P with Paul George (@PodcastPShow) August 13, 2024
PG: “I feel like what unlocks your game is a dynamic big … say you had like a Nic Claxton.”
Discussing how Trae’s game can complement a lot of different players. pic.twitter.com/WJx0Xv4QyL
While that doesn't mean he's talking about playing with Wembanyama on the Spurs, it's something they can provide. Moreover, George, who is one of the best defenders in the NBA, admitted that when Young has those things, he is one of the toughest players to stop.
The Spurs pairing him with Wembanyama after next season would allow him to play with a skilled big man who can catch lobs and knock down open jumpers. The Spurs would also have shooters around them with Devin Vassell, Harrison Barnes, and Jeremy Sochan, who has at least evolved to a point where he can hit open threes.
Three shooters around a Young and Wemby pick and roll would be almost unfair, with Young being able to shoot off the dribble, drive, and finish with a float or draw fouls. Their potential fit is great, and while Young's value appears to be depressed at the moment, a strong season from him could get teams such as the Spurs interested in him again after next season.