The San Antonio Spurs had a relatively relaxed offseason. That’s not to say they didn’t make moves – they did – the Spurs just didn’t make as many additions as some expected them to, as they had a bunch of cap space heading into free agency, but only made internal re-additions.
However, they drafted Victor Wembanyama and Sidy Cissoko, solidifying a solid rookie class, and they helped facilitate a deal between the Dallas Mavericks and Boston Celtics. The Spurs added veteran wing Reggie Bullock in that deal. And most recently, they acquired veteran point guard Cameron Payne in a deal with the Phoenix Suns.
Heading into next season, Payne and Bullock will be 29 and 32 years old, respectively. And while the Spurs are just entering a rebuild, both could bring serious value to San Antonio.
Payne appeared in 48 games for the Suns this past season, averaging 10.3 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists while shooting 41.5% from the field and 36.8% from behind the three-point line.
Meanwhile, Bullock appeared in 78 games for the Mavericks this past year, putting up 7.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 40.9% from the floor and 38.0% shooting from distance.
For a young Spurs team, the value of veterans will be huge, as they will be able to help mentor guys like Wembanyama, Devin Vassell, and Keldon Johnson.
San Antonio has missed the playoffs for four straight seasons – the longest drought in franchise history. And with Wembanyama now in place, they should set their sights on getting back to the postseason.
Having veterans like Bullock and Payne on the team will provide them with a calming presence off the bench. Plus, both guys are more than capable of playing rotational minutes for the Spurs as they look to grow and compete.
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