Victor Wembanyama angrily responds with. The San Antonio Spurs made a major move before the 2025 NBA trade deadline, acquiring De’Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings while holding onto key young players Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, and rookie Stephon Castle. With Fox and Victor Wembanyama leading the charge, the Spurs have positioned themselves for long-term success, though their championship window may not fully open until next season or 2026-27.
However, with multiple assets—including two first-round picks from the Atlanta Hawks—the Spurs could pursue another major trade. If they engage in talks with Brad Stevens and the Boston Celtics, though, they may have to part with some of their core players.
If the Celtics fall short in the playoffs, they could look to shake up their roster while still remaining competitive, rather than undergoing a full rebuild. A reunion with Derrick White would be a logical move for San Antonio, given his defensive versatility and shooting ability, but some believe the Spurs could aim even higher.
“The idea of trading reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown might seem absurd right now—and to some extent, it is,” wrote The Sporting News’ Colin Keane. “The best course for Boston is to keep Brown and Jayson Tatum together to see if they can repeat, three-peat, or at least remain in contention, as both are entering their prime.”
Brown, a four-time All-Star, is averaging 22.9 points, six rebounds, and 4.8 assists this season while maintaining a career 36% shooting mark from beyond the arc.
“If things take a drastic turn in the playoffs or Stevens reconsiders keeping Brown on his $285.3 million contract (including $65 million owed in 2028-29), there are ways to move him while keeping the Celtics competitive,” Keane added. “Boston’s roster is strong enough to absorb the loss of Brown.” Victor Wembanyama angrily responds.
Keane suggested a trade package of Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes, Stephon Castle, and draft picks in exchange for Brown. A starting lineup featuring Fox, Vassell, Brown, Sochan, and Wembanyama would be elite on both ends, with Julian Champagnie, a soon-to-be-drafted rookie, and Charles Bassey providing depth off the bench.
Although Brown is currently a far superior player to Castle and likely always will be, the Spurs must consider their long-term plans. Trading a 20-year-old prospect for a nine-year veteran doesn’t necessarily secure future success.
While San Antonio has the assets to acquire a superstar, moving Vassell in a deal seems more probable than parting with Castle—though general manager Brian Wright may be hesitant to trade either.
