If the Spurs’ 21-7 start to the season wasn’t exciting enough for you, their future outlook should do the trick. Undoubtedly, the most exciting thing about this team is its youth movement and how far San Antonio could go.
The Spurs have three budding superstars in Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Dylan Harper, all in their early twenties. The possibilities are limitless. Yet still, it’s not done there. Perhaps the most coveted non-player asset the team has is a pick swap with the Atlanta Hawks in the upcoming draft.
The 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a great one, and the Spurs will be desperate to get a spot in the lottery. Luckily for them, the chances of that happening are growing by the day.
The Atlanta Hawks are in free fall
As of December 22nd, the Hawks are on a three-game losing streak and have lost seven of their last ten games. Atlanta started the season hot and looked like a team that would compete among the top six in the Eastern Conference. With that, Spurs fandom was ready to move on from the possibility of earning another lottery pick. However, things have changed.
The Hawks have yet to win a game with Trae Young back in the lineup following an early-season injury. Their long-range shooter at point guard was once seen as essential to Atlanta, but it appears that is no longer the case. In fact, Young may be the reason the Hawks fail to make it out of the Play-In tournament.
With several teams in the East heating up, the chances of the Hawks grabbing a spot in the illustrious top six are shrinking rapidly. So long as the struggling team fails to win games, the Spurs will be grinning from ear to ear.
Another Spurs lottery pick would change everything
As it stands, the Spurs are almost a complete team. They have their stars and most of the role players they want. Even with their consistent winning, San Antonio could still use additional reinforcements. In particular, another long-term three-and-D wing would be incredibly beneficial. A lottery pick would be the perfect opportunity to add that.
If the Silver and Black can nab another top selection, courtesy of the Atlanta Hawks, things will start to get dangerous. When everyone thought that Oklahoma City would be the next dynasty, the Spurs would rise from the depths to conquer the beast. As we move forward, keep praying for the Hawks’ downfall.