Post Mortem #8 - San Antonio Spurs

Post #1 » by **Clav** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:04 am

7th April, 2025

The EIGHTH team eliminated, San Antonio Spurs. Two teams in one day, but since SAS is below POR in wins, they are officially the 8th team for me.

Previous threads:

Spoiler:

Time of death: April 06, 2025
Record at elimination: 32-46
Head coach: Mitch Johnson (interim) + Gregg Popovich (injured-stroke)

https://www.spotrac.com/nba/san-antonio-spurs/yearly

Contract summary:
De’Aaron Fox – extension eligible, or 37M expiring [injured-finger]
Devil Vassell – 4-yr 27M
Keldon Johnson – 2-yr 17M
Harrison Barnes – extension eligible or 1yr 19M expiring
Chris Paul - UFA

Rookie Scale/minimums (varies on 2-4 years remaining):
Wembanyama – 2-years remain, extension eligible after next season [injured-blood clot]
Stephon Castle – 3-yr remain
Jeremy Sochan – extension eligible, or 7M QO
Malaki Branham – extension eligible, or 4.6M QO
Julian Champagnie – extension eligible, or 2-yr/6M final year TO
Blake Wesley – extension eligible, or 4.7M QO
Jordan McLaughlin – UFA
Charles Bassey – UFA
Sandro Mamukelashvili – UFA
Bismack Biyombo – UFA (signed rest-of-season contract after Wemby injury)

TW
David Duke Jr
Harrison Ingram
Riley Minix

Dead-cap - none retained NEXT season, $7.5M off the books this season.

25-26 Capspace - Currently 1st apron, Hard-capped. Will have ~9M in cap, but there are some Cap-holds and upcoming extensions to deal with too.

PICKS for 2025 draft:
ATL 1st
CHI 1st (if 11-30); if 1-10 CHI retains.
SAS 1st

A SMALL SEASON REVIEW:

https://www.espn.com/nba/team/schedule/_/name/sa/season/2025

In the second year of the Alien’s invasion, we had some stellar moments. Including a 50-point game, and many other well-rounded scoring/defensive games. He continued to strike fear into my heart all year long as he’s still developing his shot and offensive game for NBA level, but put up what seems to be an improvable (and that’s what scares me) 24/11/3.7a/ and a whopping 4.8 steals+blocks in his 48 GP. Unforunately the future is a little murky in the short-term as his season was cut short with deep-vein thrombosis, aka a blood clotting issues. Hoping for the best for the big guy because he’s real a special talent. With Wemby&Without Fox, Spurs were hovering around .500. Wemby injured, and Fox is acquired -- but Fox has a finger injury now, and the team was playing below .500 ball. It is expected with two really good players out.

But let’s mention this Fox! There’s a clear PG to run Point of Attack for SAS. Fox is also looking for an extension and seems very motivated to play with Wemby. Smart career decision by Fox because with some marginal improvements to his game, he has the tools to be very impactful player for San Antonio. He’s already very good and his speed will open up the court a lot. We haven't seen him play with another player of Wemby's ceiling. Can they coexist ?

In addition to these top names on the roster, Chris Paul is tied for Game Played with Harrison Barnes and bench player Champagnie. Who would’ve thought ? Paul is a UFA, and should be eager to re-sign. In fact, he has options anywhere I’m sure, but this was as solid a pairing as many thought would be. Paul averaged 7.6 assists/game this year and 4.9 A/TO ratio, he will always be able to raise the floor of teams as a bench general or spot-starter until he retires due to his passing talent and IQ.

Stephon Castle is my vote for Rookie of the Year, too. He’s played so well and I’m very impressed with not only his defense (advertised) but he’s got big time athleticism too. I hope some of you have caught Spurs games to see Castle, because I think many will agree, he's a player in the league for the foreseeable future and a key Spurs player in the future.

It was an up and down year for SAS overall - and without Wemby this roster just didn't have the kick to move up the standings - though I have to say it's decently balanced when at full strength. Wemby and Fox didn't get time to play together so anything is on the table for next year in my opinion... 2025/6 in the West means proving it, between top-4 and HCA or fighting for the play-in, it really comes down to how the new pairing actually fits on court.

The rest of the roster is set on contracts except for the margins, and the Spurs have limited maneuverability to offer to free agents, but they have tradeable players and they have three potential 1st round picks in this draft. One is their own, and ATL sent an unprotected one for Dejounte Murray, who is now a Pelican. The Bulls owe a pick to San Antonio if they are 1-10, otherwise it is 1-9 next season. Bulls are a bit out of range here for now...

Finally Popovich had a stroke this year and he’s been recovering. Thankfully it wasn’t as bad as it could have been, but I mean… I say this as caring as possible because I respect Pop’s career a hell of a lot, but I say this coming from a family where stroke has affected us. I hope he takes some time to re-eval his career. Coaching is high stress and I think it might be wise to try to reduce some of that. All the best from me to you and yours, Pop. His career as someone who gave back to the game of basketball is set in stone, and a legendary coach.

Also – let’s take a moment to applaud that the Spurs, Kings, and Bulls had not one, but TWO 3-team trades with each other this year.
Trade 1 - Derozan to SAC. Duarte to CHI. Barnes to SAS. etc.
Trade 2 – Lavine to SAC. Collins to CHI. Fox to SAS. +Huerter, Jones, McLaughlin, Cissoko in that deal and some picks.

So, with some interesting contract decisions coming up after a season out of the playoffs [specifically of Fox], what do you forsee for Spurs in the near future, and what do they have to do to make the best of the Wembanyama era in San Antonio

-Luke- · Post #2 » by **-Luke-** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:26 am

The head coach question is difficult to answer because I don't even know if it's referring to Pop or Johnson. Pop is the only one who can decide whether he comes back or not. If not, do they make Johnson the permanent head coach or do they hire Taylor Jenkins or someone else?

Otherwise: Keep, as expected, improving.

Chuck Everett · Post #3 » by **Chuck Everett** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:53 am

Pop. Time to retire from active coaching (meaning day-to-day travel, etc...). He can stay in the front office for sure, but a mid-70's person suffering a stroke should not be doing that kind of job. It's too strenuous. I'd rather not have a HC die on the sidelines.

Second, bring Taylor Jenkins home. Memphis made a mistake I feel. Their issue is their players (even though they have good ones), I truly believe that.

Third, can't pay Fox a MAX contract. Too much for a guy with real flaws in his game. He may still not be willing to sign an extension because he wants a big payday or he may be amenable to the reality that he's a third component on a great team and not a co-star. Spurs need to build around Wemby and Castle from here on out.

Fourth, no early extension for Sochan. Big year. He was having a good start, then got hurt, then the wheels kind of fell off. I still believe, but huge year for him.

Fifth. Wemby, stop shooting 9 three's a game. If that's your game next year, Spurs are going nowhere. You love KD, but you don't want to dominate the mid-range with an unblockable shot? Make that make sense.

Sixth. Steph Castle. You are a consistent three pointer (35% or better) from being a monster. Keep grinding kid.

Seventh. Get some nasty on this roster. Some 6'11 rebounders/grinders. For the nights when Wemby is floating around the perimeter like a poosay, get someone who will bang bodies and get on the glass.

Keep Riley Minix. That guy can shoot and can be developed. Branham, cut. Blake Wesley, keep. I also love Champagnie. Harrison Barnes is expiring and should also stay. Chris Paul can stay, only if he agrees to be a backup, mentor to the guards.

Lastly, I think I am out on Devin Vassell (probably needs to go to the bench). He's soft and while his contract isn't terrible, his softness permeates the hope in him. Guy will shy away from contact to take more difficult shots. He's the anti-Derozan and dare I say, he's injury prone. Next year, he either shows up all season or he's on the chopping block.

Rustyman · Post #4 » by **Rustyman** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:55 am

I don't think SA still has the Chicago pick. That was traded back to Chicago in the deal when they acquired Fox.

Chuck Everett · Post #5 » by **Chuck Everett** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:56 am

Rustyman wrote:I don't think SA still has the Chicago pick. That was traded back to Chicago in the deal when they acquired Fox.

Correct.

KokoKaizer · Post #6 » by **KokoKaizer** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 9:06 am

In a weak draft, they took Castle !

Wemby, Castle and a lotto on a good draft is really promising.

The real question here, as already said above, who's the coach ?

Godymas · Post #7 » by **Godymas** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 12:55 pm

Good year for the Spurs marred by a catastrophic health issue, hopefully Wemby can stay healthy for the rest of his career as he was undoubtedly a top 10 player when healthy and the DPOY. Wemby still leads the season in blocks btw.

Castle a great pick, the Spurs have a solid future even if the rest of their drafted role players are a little uninspiring.

Ofc the Fox trade managed to get rid of one of those guys in Tre Jones, but guys like Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins, they’re really uninspiring imo, but Keldon has his moments.

Still with Wemby anything is possible and the Spurs get another off season with a lottery pick to add to their group of elite guys.

The elephant in the room is Popovich and his future. This year Pop had a major health issue that left him out of the spotlight. Obviously the Spurs have to think about what’s next. Pop has had amazing guys as his protege. Ime Udoka, Budenholzer, Monty Williams, etc. Today’s staff is
not as inspiring. Maybe Mitch Johnson takes over for good, they also have Brett Brown on the staff. Maybe a guy like Steve Nash wants to step back in, but it is going to be a concern this off season and one of the toughest decisions to handle.

Bornstellar · Post #8 » by **Bornstellar** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 3:22 pm

Tough season to gauge what with Pop's stroke, Victor's blood clot and Fox's season ending surgery.

I'm actually surprised they scraped out 32 wins with Victor out for the last two months. All in all given factors outside of their control I think they performed about as expected. Mitch Johnson did his best to fill in but imo he is not an NBA level head coach (at least not yet) and I really hope SA starts the coach search as soon as the season is over. Silver lining in this season is Castle is going to win ROY so great job by SA nabbing him with the 4th pick. First b2b ROY winners since KAT/Wiggins

Going into next season I think Spurs are in a good spot. They'll likely add a top 8 pick, internal improvements from Wemby/Castle and Fox getting a full season and training camp under his belt should do wonders for them. However I think this is the last season for morale victories. Spurs need to start taking leaps next season. I really hope this is the last year I am watching the draft lottery :lol:

Hope we keep Barnes, Champ, Wesley, and Mamu as far as role players go. Vassell/Keldon can GTFO. Sochan I would give another year but I would not extend him yet. CP3, it's been real and we appreciate your contributions but I think it's time to hang em up or go elsewhere

pipfan · Post #9 » by **pipfan** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 4:55 pm

I really think SA screwed up by not taking Matas 8th. He would have been a PERFECT fit there
Oh well, their future's bright as can be-one of my favorite teams

Marvin Martian · Post #10 » by **Marvin Martian** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 4:56 pm

IMO Fox needs to pack his bags. Castle has looked better and better every game, and I believe that he will be better than Fox by year 3 if not sooner.

They need to get a star at PF (Zion?) next to Wemby this off season. They have no chance at making the playoffs until they address that position. Barnes is old, and is not a real 4. He is a 3.

They have no presence in the paint with Wemby drifting further away from the rim.

hauntedcomputer · Post #11 » by **hauntedcomputer** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 7:04 pm

Marvin Martian wrote:IMO Fox needs to pack his bags. Castle has looked better and better every game, and I believe that he will be better than Fox by year 3 if not sooner.

They need to get a star at PF (Zion?) next to Wemby this off season. They have no chance at making the playoffs until they address that position. Barnes is old, and is not a real 4. He is a 3.

They have no presence in the paint with Wemby drifting further away from the rim.

Yeah when you are stuck paying Fox $40-million-plus for four or five years, it will be harder to build a roster. This team is still like seven or eight pieces away from contention. Castle is a great core piece. Paul and Barnes are fine to hang around for next year. Sochan's worth giving another year. Haven't seen much else out of this roster. Adding two decent pieces next year would be a nice step forward.

Johnny Tomala · Post #12 » by **Johnny Tomala** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 7:23 pm

Keep, change coach (due to health situation), as expected, improving team.

I didn't have Spurs competing for play-in, so for me they performed as expected. I will see what they do in the off-season but with roster in this shape, they are 9th-10th seed at best.

wemby · Post #13 » by **wemby** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 8:15 pm

Marvin Martian wrote:IMO Fox needs to pack his bags. Castle has looked better and better every game, and I believe that he will be better than Fox by year 3 if not sooner.

They need to get a star at PF (Zion?) next to Wemby this off season. They have no chance at making the playoffs until they address that position. Barnes is old, and is not a real 4. He is a 3.

They have no presence in the paint with Wemby drifting further away from the rim.

Spurs are 6 games away from the play in as it is, tanking with no coach and with their two best players out and their soon to be third best (Castle) in his rookie season, they have no center to speak of and need help on the wings. To say the Spurs have no chance at making the playoffs until they address PF is comical, as long as 1) Wemby is back healthy 2) there's a real coach and 3) you add a couple of role players (backup C who is a real rim protector and a high level shooter at the wing) and two lottery picks (or one and another almost lottery) they will make the playoffs in their sleep next season.

Castle Black · Post #14 » by **Castle Black** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 9:07 pm

1.) Pop needs to retire. He'll turn 77 next season and is coming off a stroke that caused him to miss the entire season. Incredible 30-year run, but it's time.

2.) Bring Taylor Jenkins home and give him the keys. Easily the best HC on the market and it just makes too much sense not to. He's young (only 40), energetic, and hungry. He can be here for the long haul with Wemby and Co. This is a no-brainer.

3.) Pray that the Basketball God's bless us in the lottery once again with a top-5 pick. This roster still badly needs high-end talent.

4.) Continue to develop soon-to-be ROY Stephon Castle's shot. He's a consistent jumper away from being an All-Star caliber player and a two-way monster.

5.) Acquire a two-way scoring wing. If possible. Or try and trade for KD this offseason if you can do so without giving up the farm (he doesn't play much D anymore but would still help us offensively). KD may not even interested, but we badly need shooting on this team and KD would provide just that.

6.) Get a starting-caliber Stretch-PF. This should be one of the most important priorities this offseason. We're one of the worst rebounding teams in the league. We need someone with size to put beside Wemby so he doesn't have to try and do everything himself. Someone who can stretch the floor, but who is also big enough to bang inside, get rebounds, and help protect the paint.

7.) Sign or draft a backup Center. We desperately need someone who can protect rim whenever Wemby sits. This was arguably our biggest issue this year outside of shooting the basketball. Every time he went to the bench, it became a layup line against us. Can't happen again. Sign a defensive minded back up Center.

8.) Extend Champagne and Sochan. Wesley's option has already been picked up for next season. Let Malaki Branham walk.

shotsquatch · Post #15 » by **shotsquatch** » Mon Apr 7, 2025 11:48 pm

I unironically believe Wemby should be attempting ten threes a game. I'd be interested in hearing arguments against it (that aren't "big men should be in the paint").

Chanel Bomber · Post #16 » by **Chanel Bomber** » Tue Apr 8, 2025 12:41 am

Spurs need to stay out the Fox business and reroute him to another team, if they want to be serious about building a contender.

Spending 20-30% of your cap on a player who doesn't fit with your best player (or any other star for that matter) is simply a terrible idea.

Just cut your losses now and stay the course building with Wemby, Castle, incoming draft picks under CP3's guidance (or other vets).

Wemby showed how special he is this season and he seems to be on a MVP track. They need to be serious about surrounding him with players who fit next to him. CP3 and Castle were Ws. But they took a step back with Fox.

Which is surprising coming from the franchise that had the foresight to trade Dejounte.

FarBeyondDriven · Post #17 » by **FarBeyondDriven** » Tue Apr 8, 2025 2:43 am

KokoKaizer wrote:In a weak draft, they took Castle !

Wemby, Castle and a lotto on a good draft is really promising.

The real question here, as already said above, who's the coach ?

2024 wasn't weak and 2025 isn't good. Castle is world's better than anyone the Spurs will draft in 2025

dans1230 · Post #18 » by **dans1230** » Tue Apr 8, 2025 10:56 am

Chuck Everett wrote:Pop. Time to retire from active coaching (meaning day-to-day travel, etc...). He can stay in the front office for sure, but a mid-70's person suffering a stroke should not be doing that kind of job. It's too strenuous. I'd rather not have a HC die on the sidelines.

Second, bring Taylor Jenkins home. Memphis made a mistake I feel. Their issue is their players (even though they have good ones), I truly believe that.

Third, can't pay Fox a MAX contract. Too much for a guy with real flaws in his game. He may still not be willing to sign an extension because he wants a big payday or he may be amenable to the reality that he's a third component on a great team and not a co-star. Spurs need to build around Wemby and Castle from here on out.

Fourth, no early extension for Sochan. Big year. He was having a good start, then got hurt, then the wheels kind of fell off. I still believe, but huge year for him.

Fifth. Wemby, stop shooting 9 three's a game. If that's your game next year, Spurs are going nowhere. You love KD, but you don't want to dominate the mid-range with an unblockable shot? Make that make sense.

Sixth. Steph Castle. You are a consistent three pointer (35% or better) from being a monster. Keep grinding kid.

Seventh. Get some nasty on this roster. Some 6'11 rebounders/grinders. For the nights when Wemby is floating around the perimeter like a poosay, get someone who will bang bodies and get on the glass.

Keep Riley Minix. That guy can shoot and can be developed. Branham, cut. Blake Wesley, keep. I also love Champagnie. Harrison Barnes is expiring and should also stay. Chris Paul can stay, only if he agrees to be a backup, mentor to the guards.

Lastly, I think I am out on Devin Vassell (probably needs to go to the bench). He's soft and while his contract isn't terrible, his softness permeates the hope in him. Guy will shy away from contact to take more difficult shots. He's the anti-Derozan and dare I say, he's injury prone. Next year, he either shows up all season or he's on the chopping block.

I love the idea of Taylor Jenkins coaching this team with Pop in the front office.
Castle is my favorite rookie from last years class and seems like the type of player who can play with anyone. They have some good role players who when paired with picks should net them a a very good player, they should try to compete next year. I think the 2 big lineup is coming back, the 3 best teams in the NBA ply them regularly, they should be looking at pairing another big with Wemby.

Blame Rasho · Post #19 » by **Blame Rasho** » Tue Apr 8, 2025 5:53 pm

1… much props for the write up.

I think the roster is horrible around Wemby. There is no shooting. I don’t believe in Fox. I think castle while nice, will be forever limited if he can’t shoot. I think we have drafted busts far too often.

There is a gaping hole where no one has pride to lock people up when Wemby is out in the floor. Hell, I love him, but his blocks are inflated because no one can stay in front of their man. The guy cleans up so many mistakes.

I don’t think Vassell nor Johnson are long term guys. I would trade everyone outside of Wemby and Castle.

We need some mofo guys who are tough, who can shoot and have some dog in them. The entire roster is soft.

I don’t know about Pop and him coming back, but I wouldn’t mind Jenkins, Malone or heck even Becky Hammon leading the Spurs.

ChettheJet · Post #20 » by **ChettheJet** » Tue Apr 8, 2025 9:04 pm

They didn't need to make a lot of moves this year, they were happy to end up back in the lottery. It now looks like the right idea giving up the Bulls' pick since they don't need 3 rookies to find time for off the bench

They've got Wemby, Castle, Fox, Johnson and Vassell to build around. #8 and #15 should give them a pair of rotation players. They could keep Paul and Barnes or find some younger veterans. One key is staggering their contracts so they don't have to pay too many FAs in any given year so they have some flexibility in keeping or moving guys.

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