Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport
What if the Spurs gave in to the temptation of experience? Since Victor Wembanyama’s arrival, the Texas franchise has walked a fine line between development and ambition. The 2025 Draft could mark a decisive turning point in that balance.
On a podcast with Tom Haberstroh and Kevin O’Connor, an intriguing trade scenario was floated. Haberstroh imagined Utah sending Lauri Markkanen and the 5th pick in the Draft to San Antonio in exchange for the No. 2 pick. While not based on any official report, the idea has stirred plenty of reactions.
Markkanen remains a proven All-Star who could immediately support Wembanyama on the court. But is that worth sacrificing such a high selection in a highly anticipated draft? Is the Finnish star really worth that much? It’s debatable—especially considering San Antonio’s known interest in using the No. 2 pick to draft Dylan Harper.
The big debate on a possible Spurs trade
@SpursReporter : “Tom Haberstroh threw out a trade idea with Kevin O’Connor: Lauri Markkanen and the No. 5 pick to the Spurs for No. 2 overall. The Utah Jazz might want more, but O’Connor says if he’s San Antonio, he wouldn’t give up much else. Would you add Markkanen to the starting 5 in S.A?”
It’s a proposal that clearly outlines the limits of a deal already dividing fans. On one side, the desire to surround Wembanyama with strong contributors. On the other, the determination to stay committed to a patient and promising rebuild. That second pick could mean more than just a name—especially with Harper viewed as a future NBA star.
The Spurs have a chance to build a young, cohesive, complementary core. Letting that go raises legitimate concerns. Markkanen is seen as the wild card here. At 28, he’s in his prime and offers a rare skill set: mobile, accurate, versatile. He’d be a valuable asset for a team still lacking in spacing and consistent offense. But acquiring him could signal a shift toward immediate competitiveness in San Antonio’s overall strategy.
For now, there’s no indication the Spurs are seriously considering such a deal. The idea came from outside, and the front office has remained tight-lipped ahead of the Draft. Still, the hypothetical trade highlights the strategic crossroads they’re facing: bet on the future—or seize an immediate opportunity.