Spurs Reportedly Interested in Trading for Brook Lopez
The San Antonio Spurs are actively accelerating their rebuilding efforts around Victor Wembanyama this offseason. They started by selecting UConn guard Stephon Castle with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. They also traded their eighth overall pick to the Minnesota Timberwolves for future draft assets, indicating a potential blockbuster move under General Manager Brian Wright. Adding veteran point guard Chris Paul aims to mentor their young talent, while rumors suggest they’re eyeing a trade for Utah Jazz’s Lauri Markkanen or possibly Milwaukee Bucks’ Brook Lopez.
Milwaukee, having fallen short in last season’s playoffs despite stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, is reportedly shopping Lopez to refocus their roster. San Antonio, reputed for its substantial draft capital over the next six seasons, has expressed interest in acquiring Lopez, according to reports including from Matt Moore of The Action Network. This interest adds Lopez to the list of potential trade targets the Spurs have been linked with this offseason.
Lopez, known for his defensive prowess and ability to stretch the floor, has spent six seasons with Milwaukee, contributing to their 2021 championship. Last season, he averaged 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 48.5% from the field and 36.6% from three-point range. Despite aging, Lopez remains a top-tier center in the league, enhancing any team’s defensive and shooting capabilities.
Pairing Lopez with Wembanyama in San Antonio would likely form one of the NBA’s most formidable defensive frontcourts. Wembanyama, a recent runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year, combined with Lopez, a former runner-up for the same award, promises exceptional interior defense. Lopez’s outside shooting would also address San Antonio’s perimeter scoring deficiencies, complementing Wembanyama’s inside presence.
In potential trade scenarios, the Spurs might consider offering players like Zach Collins and future draft picks to secure Lopez. Such a move could immediately bolster their playoff aspirations, leveraging their defensive strength and enhancing their roster balance.