The San Antonio Spurs are in an optimal position for a rebuild, boasting ample cap space, a wealth of draft picks, and a young, generational talent to build around. While the Spurs appear to be taking a patient approach, they still have the option to accelerate the process. In recent years, the Spurs have been linked to two-time All-Star Zach LaVine. Now 29, LaVine is under contract for the next two seasons, with a $48.9 million player option for 2026-27. Though a prolific scorer, his defensive shortcomings and ball-dominant style have reduced his value among NBA stars. The Chicago Bulls have been trying to trade him for two seasons, but his hefty contract has deterred potential suitors.
In a mock trade suggested by Bleacher Report, the Spurs, Bulls, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Clippers would engage in a deal involving nine players and four draft picks. The Spurs would trade Zach Collins to the Suns and Keldon Johnson to the Bulls, receiving LaVine and an unprotected 2029 first-round pick in return. Although trading two role players for an All-Star and a draft pick may seem appealing on paper, there’s a caveat: LaVine is no longer playing at an All-Star level. He appeared in only 25 games last season, partly due to injury and partly due to being benched, and has averaged 23.5 points on 36.9 percent shooting from three over the past two seasons. LaVine’s ball-dominant style and inefficient scoring don’t align with the roster the Spurs are constructing, which prioritizes defense and ball movement. Despite the trade’s apparent benefits, it would compromise the flexibility the Spurs have carefully cultivated and potentially close the door on better future deals and signings.
