Mock Trade Reunites San Antonio Spurs With NBA Champion Next to Victor Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs desperately need to get Victor Wembanyama to the postseason next year. Despite boasting a generational talent and an All-Star point guard in De’Aaron Fox, making the playoffs is easier said than done in the Western Conference.

Luckily, some of the best players might be on the trade block. While the Spurs could target Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason, the Boston Celtics, who have done an excellent job of hoarding some of the best role players in the NBA, might open their coffers.

Their starting lineup alone next season is owed more than the first apron, and as they fall 0-2 to the New York Knicks in the first round of the NBA playoffs, their once-promising season is on the verge of ending early.

If the Celtics do decide to part ways with an expensive player in favor of flexible finances, the Spurs should pounce on the opportunity to add anyone from the championship roster.

Assuming that Jayson Tatum is untouchable, the Spurs could still break the bank for Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, or even Jaylen Brown, although reuniting with Derrick White would be the best option.

Since being traded away from the Spurs in an effort to tank (it worked!), White has blossomed into a fringe All-Star, All-Defensive player, and is, most importantly, a winner.

The Spurs traded White in 2022 for a first-round pick, a swap, Josh Richardson, and Romeo Langford. It’s safe to say he won’t come back for nearly as cheap.

Full Mock Trade Details

Spurs receive: Derrick White

Celtics receive: Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson, 2025 first-round pick (via ATL), 2027 first-round pick (via ATL) 2028 pick swap back (BOS own), 2030 pick swap (via DAL or MIN)

When noting that Mikal Bridges cost the Knicks five picks, this trade is a steal for the Spurs. The Celtics will not be rebuilding, just trying to save some money, so win-now players would have to be included.

The Spurs could trot out a lineup of De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Derrick White, Jeremy Sochan, and Victor Wembanyama, with Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, a rookie, and possibly Chris Paul coming off the bench.

White adds some much-needed spacing and continues to elevate the defensive mentality in San Antonio.

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Mock Trade Reunites San Antonio Spurs With NBA Champion Next to Victor Wembanyama

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