Luka Doncic for Victor Wembanyama: Who says no to a straight up trade?
By Tyler Watts
Case for the San Antonio Spurs trading Victor Wembanyama for Luka Doncic
San Antonio was ecstatic to get the number one pick, and they have a track record of developing big men, but Wembanyama is not a sure thing. He would not be the first number-one overall pick to bust in the NBA for a myriad of reasons. For Wemby, it will not be a lack of talent, but injuries, cultural adjustments, and other factors could impact his ceiling.
Luka is one of the best players in the world. He has made first-team All-NBA four straight years. That is a lofty standard for Wembanyama to reach. Just being an All-Star that averages 20 points and ten rebounds per game is not enough. To surpass Doncic, Wembanyama has to be great. Everyone projects him to be, but until it becomes a reality, there will be questions.
Luka is also a lead ball-handler and playmaker. Wembanyama can handle the ball at 7’5, but he will not be the primary offensive initiator. The French teenager will not bring the ball up the court on every possession and run the offense. Doncic is going to get more touches and time of possession. He is one of the best in the world with the ball in his hands, and Luka will have it more than Wembanyama.
There are cases to be made for both sides, but who says no if the deal gets proposed?