Spurs could trade for Warriors’ rising star worth $24.8 million amid trade rumors

The San Antonio Spurs have had an interesting start to the new season. They started the new campaign 3-4, mainly thanks to their defense.

Through seven games so far, San Antonio has allowed just 105.9 points per game to its opponent, which ranks third in the NBA behind the Golden State Warriors and Oklahoma City Thunder. Their defence, led by Victor Wembanyama, Jeremy Sochan and Stephon Castle, has ensured Spurs have a tough match-up for the rest of the league, but their attack needs improvement.

They were also affected by the injury early in the season. Devin Vassell has yet to play a game this season as he recovers from a foot injury, but he is nearing a return. The Spurs also lost Sochan to a broken thumb in their loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.

With these injuries, Spurs could make an attempt to bring in another young star to help them in their rebuild. One player who has been in the trade rumors is 22-year-old Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga.

After failing to sign an extension before the season started, Kuminga has been the subject of trade rumors. It remains to be seen if the Warriors are interested in trading him, as he will be a restricted free agent after this season.

If they decide to deal him, Spurs could be a top option. San Antonio could send Zach Collins and draft picks to Golden State for Kuminga and Gary Payton II. This would help both sides, as the Warriors would gain some much-needed size by acquiring Collins, while also adding draft capital, and the Spurs would add another young star in Kuminga to help with the rebuild.

With the Spurs trading for Kuminga, they could replace him with Harrison Barnes, who they could ultimately trade before the deadline. They can also trade Payton II for another role player or pick.

While trading for Kuminga would help the Spurs rebuild, it could be a bust if they lose him in free agency after the season. Either way, he could help them make a run at a play-in spot this season and get back to their winning ways before hitting the open market next summer.

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