4. Spurs part with veteran on expiring contract for draft capital
The San Antonio Spurs decided to act as the third team in trades to add more draft capital over using their cap space to improve their current roster in the offseason. They are still rebuilding but drafted their star of the present and future in Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs won’t be in the playoffs in 2024 and will be eager to add more picks before the deadline.
Cedi Osman is on a $6.7 million expiring contract and could be flipped in February, despite earning Gregg Popovich’s praise. The 6’7 wing is a plus shooter who can guard multiple positions. He would fit nicely in the Valley of the Sun, especially if they only have to pay a small price to get him.
Osman played 18.6 minutes per game in the 2023 playoff for the Cavaliers. His shooting continues to improve and the veteran can be trusted to make the right plays.
Despite the Suns’ injuries, Nassir Little has barely played this season and has never seen action in more than 54 games in a full campaign. The 23-year-old still has time and room to grow, but Phoenix cannot wait. They are all-in on winning now, and Osman improves their odds.
The Suns do not have a ton of assets, so they should be searching for a move like this. Getting one or two rotation players for their playoff run could be massive, especially if an injury hits when the games matter most.