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The 2026 NBA Draft has arrived, and the San Antonio Spurs enter the event from a much different position than in previous years. After reaching the NBA Finals, the organization is no longer focused on lottery selections. Instead, the attention shifts toward maximizing the value of the 20th overall pick.
San Antonio already possesses a strong young core led by Victor Wembanyama. The front office must now determine whether adding another rookie or acquiring an experienced contributor gives the team a better chance to compete for a championship next season.
Frontcourt Depth Remains the Biggest Need
One theme appears consistently across draft projections and trade discussions. The Spurs need more size, rebounding, and physicality in their frontcourt rotation.
While the roster features elite talent at the center position, depth behind Wembanyama remains a concern. The postseason highlighted the importance of reliable backup big men who can defend, rebound, and contribute in high-pressure situations.
As a result, many analysts believe San Antonio should prioritize frontcourt help either through the draft or via trade.
Daniel Gafford Could Be an Ideal Trade Target
One intriguing possibility involves acquiring Daniel Gafford from the Dallas Mavericks.
The proposed deal would send Luke Kornet and the 20th overall pick to Dallas in exchange for Gafford and the 30th pick. Such a move would allow the Spurs to upgrade their backup center position while remaining active in the first round.
Gafford brings athleticism, rim protection, rebounding, and strong finishing ability around the basket. He has also demonstrated playoff experience and could immediately strengthen San Antonio’s second unit.
The challenge is competition. Several teams seeking center help may pursue Gafford, making negotiations difficult. However, his skill set aligns perfectly with what the Spurs currently need.
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Bobby Portis Offers Veteran Toughness
Another option involves targeting Bobby Portis from the Milwaukee Bucks.
If Milwaukee begins a rebuilding process, Portis could become available. The veteran forward would provide toughness, energy, rebounding, and floor spacing. His ability to play both power forward and center makes him especially attractive.
Portis could fit seamlessly alongside Wembanyama while also anchoring bench units. His championship experience and physical style would address weaknesses that surfaced during San Antonio’s playoff run.
The downside is cost. The Spurs would likely need to part with the 20th pick and use financial flexibility to complete the move.
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A Reunion With Dominick Barlow Makes Sense
A more affordable alternative could be bringing back former Spurs prospect Dominick Barlow.
Barlow enjoyed a productive season with the Philadelphia 76ers and showed improvement as a versatile frontcourt player. He remains young, familiar with the Spurs system, and capable of contributing immediately.
A deal involving the 20th pick and Philadelphia’s 22nd pick would allow San Antonio to move down only slightly while adding valuable depth. Although Barlow may not completely solve the frontcourt issue, he represents a low-risk investment with developmental upside.
Mock Drafts Reveal a Clear Consensus
Recent mock drafts reveal remarkable agreement regarding San Antonio’s priorities.
Most analysts project the Spurs to select a physical frontcourt prospect if they keep the 20th pick. Frequently mentioned names include Zuby Ejiofor, Henri Veesaar, Morez Johnson Jr., Hannes Steinbach, Patrick Ngongba, Jayden Quaintance, and Yaxel Lendeborg.
These prospects offer many of the qualities San Antonio seeks, including rebounding, defensive versatility, size, and toughness.
Among the group, Lendeborg has generated significant excitement because of his complete skill set and ability to impact both ends of the floor.
Wing Scorers Also Remain on the Radar
If the preferred frontcourt options are unavailable, the Spurs could shift their attention to perimeter talent.
Mock drafts frequently connect San Antonio with wings such as Karim Lopez, Cameron Carr, Chris Cenac Jr., Allen Graves, Amari Allen, and Koa Peat.
These players bring scoring potential and positional versatility. During the playoffs, head coach Mitch Johnson shortened the rotation due to concerns about bench production. Adding a reliable scorer could help solve that problem.
Several of these prospects possess the upside to become valuable contributors in a championship-contending rotation.
The Best Path Forward for San Antonio
The Spurs find themselves in an enviable position. They can pursue immediate improvement through trades or continue building through the draft.
If a player like Daniel Gafford or Bobby Portis becomes available at a reasonable price, veteran help may offer the fastest path toward contention. However, the depth of the 2026 draft class means quality prospects should still be available at No. 20.
Ultimately, San Antonio’s success will depend on selecting the option that best complements Victor Wembanyama and strengthens the roster’s weakest area. Whether through a trade or a draft selection, adding frontcourt depth remains the clear priority heading into draft night.
