Should the Spurs Trade De'Aaron Fox to Team Up a $238M Star with Victor Wembanyama?

De’Aaron Fox's arrival in San Antonio marked a significant shift for the Spurs, especially when paired with rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. However, the early promise of this duo was hindered by Wembanyama's season-ending injury, limiting their collaboration to just five games. As the Spurs navigate their roster dynamics, basketball analyst Kevin O’Connor suggests that it may be time for a pivotal change, specifically targeting Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz to enhance the team's three-point shooting capabilities. This article delves into the current state of the Spurs, the potential trade implications, and what the future might hold for this promising franchise.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

• The Spurs’ shooting woes persisted last season, ranking 20th in three-point efficiency.
• De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama had limited time to develop chemistry due to injuries.
• Kevin O’Connor advocates for trading for Lauri Markkanen to address spacing issues.
• Markkanen’s performance at EuroBasket 2025 increased his trade value significantly.
• The Spurs made strategic summer signings to bolster their shooting options.

The Spurs’ Current Roster Dynamics

The San Antonio Spurs have embarked on a new chapter with De’Aaron Fox leading the charge alongside Victor Wembanyama. However, their initial synergy was cut short due to Wembanyama's unfortunate injury. This setback raised questions about the team's competitiveness and their ability to make necessary adjustments for a successful season.

Fox, a standout player, signed a lucrative contract worth £37 million, making him a cornerstone for the franchise. His dynamic play style is expected to synergise well with Wembanyama's unique skill set. Yet, despite these promising components, the Spurs faced challenges last season regarding their shooting efficiency. They ranked 20th in the league in three-point shooting, a statistic that cannot be overlooked if they aim for a playoff contention.

Evaluating the Spurs' Shooting Struggles

Three-point shooting has become a pivotal aspect of modern basketball, and the Spurs have struggled in this department. The inability of both Fox and rookie Stephon Castle to shoot above 30% from beyond the arc last season highlighted a pressing issue. O’Connor's assertion that the Spurs need a player who can enhance their spacing is rooted in these statistics.

Markkanen's potential acquisition could provide the necessary firepower. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to shoot from long range, achieving a 39% shooting percentage from three-point territory in two of the last three seasons. His performance in EuroBasket 2025, where he led Finland to the semifinals and recorded multiple 40-point games, only amplifies his appeal as a trade target.

Potential Trade: Lauri Markkanen

Kevin O’Connor's endorsement of Lauri Markkanen as a perfect fit for the Spurs comes at a crucial time. Markkanen's style of play aligns seamlessly with the Spurs’ need for a versatile scorer who can shoot from both on and off the ball. His presence could significantly improve the offensive dynamics of the team, especially in synergising with Fox and Wembanyama.

However, acquiring Markkanen would likely require a substantial trade package, potentially including Fox's significant contract. This raises the question of whether the Spurs should act quickly or allow their current roster to develop further.

Evaluating the Roster's Potential

While O’Connor expresses doubt about the current roster's ability to support Fox and Wembanyama effectively, it is essential to consider the recent adjustments the Spurs have made. The signing of Jordan McLaughlin, a notable shooter, and Lindy Waters III, who excelled with a nearly 40% shooting rate last season, provides the team with greater flexibility. These additions, along with existing talents like Kelly Olynyk and Luke Kornet, offer Fox multiple options for two-man actions, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

The Spurs have a relatively young and evolving team that has the potential to grow together. While Markkanen represents an attractive option, it may be prudent for the Spurs to fully assess the effectiveness of their current roster before making a significant move.

What Lies Ahead for the Spurs?

The Spurs are at a crossroads, balancing the potential for immediate improvements with the need to give their current roster a fair chance to gel. The combination of Fox and Wembanyama promises excitement, yet their success hinges on the team's overall shooting efficiency and chemistry. As the season unfolds, the Spurs will have to navigate their options carefully, weighing the benefits of a trade against the potential growth of their existing players.

In an evolving NBA landscape, the Spurs must remain adaptable. Whether they pursue a trade for Markkanen or double down on developing their current squad, their decisions in the coming months will significantly impact their competitiveness for the current season and beyond.

FAQs

Why are the Spurs interested in Lauri Markkanen?

The Spurs are interested in Lauri Markkanen due to his exceptional shooting ability, which addresses their pressing need for improved spacing and three-point shooting, crucial for enhancing their offensive performance.

How did De’Aaron Fox perform last season?

De’Aaron Fox had a solid season, showcasing his playmaking skills and leadership. However, his three-point shooting percentage was below 30%, indicating a need for improvement in that area.

What impact did Victor Wembanyama's injury have on the Spurs?

Victor Wembanyama's injury limited the Spurs' ability to develop on-court chemistry with De’Aaron Fox, hindering the team's potential to compete effectively during the early part of the season.

What are the Spurs’ chances for the playoffs this season?

While the Spurs have promising talent in Fox and Wembanyama, their playoff chances will largely depend on their ability to improve their shooting and overall team chemistry throughout the season.

What other players could the Spurs target for a trade?

In addition to Lauri Markkanen, other potential trade targets could include players who excel in three-point shooting or offer versatile scoring options to complement Fox and Wembanyama.