The NBA’s competitive balance faced a significant moment during what some deemed a potential lottery apocalypse on Monday night. The Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs were the last two teams left standing, vying for the coveted rights to draft Cooper Flagg. Imagining Flagg teamed up with Victor Wembanyama had fans concerned about the monumental impact it could have on the league’s parity. Two of the best prospects of their generation, combined so early in their careers, could certainly tilt the scales.
In a surprising twist, the Spurs were drawn at No. 2, handing the Mavericks the lottery win despite entering with a meager 1.8 percent chance from the 11th spot in the drawing. This turn of events marked a significant moment for the Mavs, especially in light of their recent trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers, a move that captured headlines for all the right and wrong reasons. Meanwhile, the Spurs’ second overall selection further complicates their own ambitions, especially with rumors swirling around their interest in the second-best asset available in the upcoming offseason.
As the dust settles on the lottery, all eyes are turning to Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks’ recent playoff disappointments have led to speculation about his future, and with Antetokounmpo reportedly “open-minded” about changing teams, this offseason could usher in a new chapter for him. His flirtations with leaving Milwaukee have intensified, compounded by the unfortunate injury to Damian Lillard and the Bucks’ limited options for significant trades to regain championship contention.
From the start, the Spurs have been viewed as a potential landing spot for Giannis. The idea of him joining forces with Wembanyama is undeniably enticing. Even with the move from the Eastern Conference to a more challenging Western Conference, playing alongside another generational talent could be the spark necessary for Antetokounmpo to pursue titles again. The Spurs’ No. 2 pick alongside the rights to Rutgers guard Dylan Harper adds even more luster to their offer, making them a legitimate contender in the race for Giannis.
A critical aspect of any potential trade revolves around salary balancing. The Spurs need to navigate their previous trades carefully, having already sent off their 2027 pick for De’Aaron Fox. The Stepien Rule restricts them from trading their 2026 or 2028 picks, but they do have a selection of first-round picks from other franchises that could be enticing to the Bucks, who would surely want to broaden their draft asset portfolio.
Here’s a hypothetical trade package that could get the conversation going:
San Antonio Spurs receive:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks receive:
- Stephon Castle
- No. 2 overall pick in 2025
- Atlanta’s 2027 first-round pick
- Boston’s 2028 first-round pick
- Spurs’ 2029 first-round pick
- Harrison Barnes
- Keldon Johnson
Now, should the Spurs pull the trigger on this offer? There are valid arguments for both sides of this dilemma. While Giannis ranks among the top three players globally, he’s also 31, and his history of injuries raises concerns. His reliance on athleticism, combined with an underdeveloped three-point shot, presents risks as he ages. Meanwhile, Stephon Castle, fresh off a Rookie of the Year win, and Harper, a promising talent, offer hope for a brighter future, especially coupled with a wealth of valuable draft picks.
Still, the idea of a Wembanyama-Giannis tandem is mouth-watering. On defense, this duo could form the best foundation in the league, with the potential to dominate opposing offenses. Offensively, with the right nearby shooters, Wembanyama could stretch the floor for Giannis, and the two could rotate their minutes strategically to ensure one is always on the court, leveraging their dominant rebounding abilities and creating transition opportunities off defensive stops.
Fans on social media are already discussing the potential of players like Castle and Harper growing into something resembling Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams within a few years. Yet, the reality is that these comparisons may be optimistic. Castle, with shooting efficiency below league average as a rookie, may ultimately be better suited as a reliable fourth option on an elite team rather than a foundational piece. While Harper shows promise, questions linger about him being a guaranteed success at No. 2.
Spurs fans may rightfully express concern regarding the size of the offer for Giannis, but it’s important to recognize that the market could potentially yield more. The Houston Rockets emerge as a serious competitor, poised to provide a package highlighted by young, high-upside players and future first-round picks. A core built around Amen Thompson and a combination of Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, or Reed Sheppard, alongside multiple Phoenix first-rounders, could make Milwaukee’s choices much tougher.
For the Bucks, provoking a bidding war appears essential if they decide to move Giannis, and the Spurs securing the No. 2 lottery pick undoubtedly enhances their position in negotiations. As every facet weighs in, the stakes couldn’t be higher, setting the stage for a summer filled with high drama and critical decisions that could reshape the future of the league.
