Opinion: The San Antonio Spurs Should Shift Their Focus

The San Antonio Spurs will be playing without Victor Wembanyama for the remainder of the 2024-2025 NBA season.

Two weeks ago, Wemby was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder, which will put him out for the rest of the season. Wemby was having a historic second season, averaging 24 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 blocks. Without Wemby’s presence on the offensive and defensive end, the Spurs lack significant capability. Though the Spurs have the league's 10th-worst record for now, they will likely fall further without Wemby. This point is underscored by the fact that they are only 2-5 since the All-Star break. Their two wins were against the Grizzlies who were without Ja Morant, and the Suns who have been struggling as a franchise since Kevin Durant arrived.

Because of the likely continued decline, the Spurs must shift their focus to developing young talent – namely Stephon Castle.  

Despite not being a permanent starter, Castle is still the favorite for Rookie of the Year. Starting and developing Castle is critical for the Spurs. Wemby being out now allows Castle to have more opportunities to create on the offensive end.

The Spurs need to give Castle the green light. This means allowing Castle to shoot more threes, drawing him up isolation plays, and allowing him to be the central figure in the offense when De'Aaron Fox is not on the floor. If Castle refines his offensive skillset and gains more confidence, he will be on pace to being one of the best two-way guards in the NBA.

Castle, Fox, and Wemby could be a top trio in the league by the end of next year.

The Spurs have a 65% chance at the 10th pick because of where they currently stand. In addition, they will have the Atlanta Hawks unprotected first-round pick. We will see if they begin to do a soft tank and increase their chance of receiving a higher pick.

For now, focusing on player development, and strictly evaluating who should be a part of the team in the future should be the top priority for RC Buford and the rest of the Spurs front office.