The Spurs’ staff for the 2026/27 season is generally set. San Antonio prolonged Julian Champagnie’s contract, introduced again Harrison Barnes, signed Tobias Harris in free company, and added two rookie massive males from the draft. All these strikes obtained them near the tax line and crammed up 13 of the 15 roster spots obtainable.
With the massive transactions out of the way in which, all that’s left is deciding what to do with these two final roster spots. The Spurs might go in several instructions there, so let’s check out a few of their choices.
The continuity path: Jordan McLaughlin and Bismack Biyombo
Arguably the least thrilling path, however we’re speaking in regards to the fringes of the roster, so there’s nothing fallacious with making decisions that target stability as an alternative of upside
McLaughlin arrived within the De’Aaron Fox commerce and impressed the Spurs sufficient that they introduced them again on a minimal contract for the 2025/26 season. He suited up for 44 video games, largely in rubbish time, however on the alternatives he obtained, he confirmed he could be a good deep bench man who offers strong recreation administration and regular spot-up capturing. The 30-year-old is a completed product, however he can play and matches San Antonio’s tradition.
In contrast to J-Mack, Biyombo shouldn’t actually see the ground until a recreation is set at this level in his profession. His athleticism is gone, and he was by no means recognized for his ability. What he dropped at the desk final season was management, as he was clearly revered by everybody within the locker room, together with Victor Wembanyama. With what number of massive our bodies the Spurs have, he might proceed to be extra of a coach than a participant.
McLaughlin would doubtless command a assured minimal deal, like final season, whereas Biyombo might doubtless be had for {a partially} assured or non-guaranteed minimal.
The utmost depth path: signal one of the best veterans obtainable
Signing one of the best expertise obtainable may look like the apparent most suitable option, however the Spurs don’t actually have a variety of minutes to supply, so the expectations of anybody coming in must be managed to keep away from any potential locker room points. Guys like McLaughlin understand how issues work in San Antonio. A gifted veteran who’s attempting to get his profession again on observe or finish it on a excessive observe may desire a larger function than Mitch Johnson can provide them. But when Johnson is open to having everybody however the core guys earn their minutes via competitors, it might work.
Now, we’re speaking about gamers who would take the minimal or near it, since that’s all of the Spurs can provide, which guidelines out any massive names. However guys like Bruce Brown, Jordan Clarkson, or Cole Anthony, amongst others, could possibly be in play. They’d most likely choose a vacation spot the place minutes are available, but when they’re assured they may have an opportunity to earn them, they could possibly be focused on being in a contender.
These guys might carve out small roles for themselves, however is also sad in the event that they don’t find yourself doing so. There may be some threat hooked up to them, however they may assist in case of an emergency.
The youth and upside path: nobody over 25 allowed
Primarily, the alternative of the continuity path. The Spurs have their important guys, and with Barnes again and the Harris addition, they’ve their veterans. Why not use the final roster spots to attempt to discover the following Champagnie?
A easy solution to do it will be to canvas the undrafted free agent and G League expertise swimming pools. Summe League is ideal for it. Whereas most groups would doubtless solely provide Exhibit 10 (coaching camp) contracts, the Spurs could possibly be extra aggressive and provide a non-guaranteed or partially assured customary contract to somebody who shines. At this level, it’s arduous to provide you with a variety of names, however there are all the time standouts. San Antonio has a variety of youth already on the principle roster, however they’ve a very good developmental system in Austin that they will all the time depend on.
The problem with this course is that it each hurts the general dependable depth of the staff, as by nature the signings can be considerably dangerous and goal gamers who might grow to be however should not presently NBA skills, whereas additionally costing cash and adaptability. And most tasks don’t flip into Champagnie. Nonetheless, if the Spurs suppose they will get the veterans they’re focused on to attend till after Summer time League is over, they could possibly be affected person earlier than making their signings and doubtlessly use one or each of their spots on younger gamers with potential.
The financial savings and adaptability path: protecting a roster spot open
Groups are allowed to hold simply 14 gamers on their roster, so there’s no want for the Spurs to signal two extra guys. They might merely elect so as to add somebody and maintain an open spot heading into the season, one thing they’ve executed previously.
The rationale for doing that’s to take care of some roster flexibility. They don’t have a lot room below the tax to tackle cash for belongings, however they may do a two-for-one deal or finally convert a two-way contract into an ordinary one with out having to waive anybody. They might even have a spot in case somebody they’re focused on will get waived. Primarily, they’d save up some cash that in any other case can be going to somebody unlikely to contribute till they really feel they will discover the best use for the spot.
The draw back is the Spurs wouldn’t be capable of add depth at two positions on this situation. They’d have their two-way guys to assist in case of emergency, so something aside from main absences shouldn’t current a serious downside, however there’s a case to be made for having a set roster that may work collectively and develop chemistry heading into the season. It will even be unwise to make use of the one roster spot with somebody like Biyombo, who solely offers management, as an alternative of doubtless focusing extra on potential productiveness.
What path do you suppose the Spurs ought to decide? May they combine and match, going for a veteran and a younger participant? What are some names you wish to see them pursue? Tell us within the feedback.
