The San Antonio Spurs have initiated their rebuilding process by acquiring Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes, bringing veteran leadership to last season’s worst team in the West. This measured approach aims to build a solid foundation around Victor Wembanyama, with Paul and Barnes as the first steps towards creating a winning culture.
However, expecting Paul and Barnes alone to transform the Spurs into a playoff team may be overly optimistic, as they were role players on non-playoff teams last season. To further develop their championship-winning core, the Spurs might need an elite addition. This could be achieved through a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans to add a proven scorer to their roster.
### Trade Details
**San Antonio Spurs Receive: Brandon Ingram**
**New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins, 2027 First-Round Pick (ATL), 2028 First-Round Pick (BOS), 2029 First-Round Pick (SAS, Top-10 Protected)**
This trade provides the Pelicans with a starting-caliber center, a bench wing scorer, and valuable future draft picks. For the Spurs, this move stakes assets on adding a top-tier talent to complement Wembanyama as he develops.
### Spurs Prepare for a Playoff Push
The acquisitions of Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes signal the Spurs’ belief in the potential development of Wembanyama and Devin Vassell to compete for a playoff spot. Paul and Barnes bring a winning mentality, but additional talent is crucial to becoming a serious contender in the West. This trade would secure a reliable on-ball wing scorer in Brandon Ingram.
Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists last season, even in a down year, and has established himself as a consistent 20-point scorer on a playoff-caliber team. His scoring ability would be a significant asset for the Spurs, given Barnes’ inconsistency and Paul’s current limitations as a scorer. This move would also alleviate some pressure on Vassell, who is still developing his on-ball scoring skills.
While Ingram isn’t known for his defense, he could thrive within a team defensive structure anchored by Wembanyama in the paint. This would give the Spurs a more versatile team, capable of reliable scoring and defense. Paul’s playmaking would also create better opportunities for Ingram, who has demonstrated strong passing abilities.
Overall, this trade could position the Spurs as a competitive team in the Western Conference, enhancing their chances of a playoff run and supporting the growth of their young core.
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