How This Trade Impacts San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs would be lowering their ceiling in this trade scenario, but that may be what the organization ultimately wants. If they want to rebuild, trading Murray away could be the first move that they make.
Moving Murray would open up a ton of playing time for rookie Josh Primo, who was the team’s lottery pick this season. They would also get an extended look at Kira Lewis Jr., who was the New Orleans Pelicans’ lottery pick.
Lewis is a high-level defender that is an excellent table-setter. Last season in New Orleans he didn’t receive consistent playing time, but the potential is there for him. The Alabama product has the length to defend either backcourt spot, giving San Antonio some versatility in the backfield.
Josh Hart would also fit the mold of what Gregg Popovich is looking for. He works hard on the defensive end of the court and is capable of knocking down some 3-pointers. He is one of the best rebounding guards in the NBA, as he averaged 8.0 boards per game this past season. The Villanova product is versatile and does a little bit of everything.
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The second-round picks would be very valuable to the Spurs as well. They develop players as well as any organization in the NBA, so stockpiling young players or stashing players overseas fits their mantra.