With the San Antonio Spurs clearing a roster spot following Jeremy Sochan’s release, NBA trade outlets have already started debating the best available players the team could pursue on a buyout to bolster their playoff push.
San Antonio currently sits among the Western Conference’s top contenders, and adding depth — especially experienced veterans or instant role players — could significantly strengthen their rotation around stars like Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox.
Here are four intriguing buyout options the Spurs may target next:
🔹 1. Jusuf Nurkić – Veteran Big with Playmaking & Size
One of the most realistic targets is Jusuf Nurkić, who may be expendable as the Utah Jazz continue their tanking season. At 6’11”, Nurkić provides much‑needed size, rebounding, and playmaking for a backup frontcourt role behind Wembanyama. His ability to handle the ball as a big and set screens could help maintain Spurs offensive rhythm when the starters rest.
Why he fits:
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High basketball IQ and interior scoring
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Excellent passer for a center
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Veteran presence in playoffs
🔹 2. Khris Middleton – Scoring & Leadership Off the Bench
Although in the later stage of his career, Khris Middleton would offer the Spurs a steady secondary scorer and seasoned playoff performer. After a recent move to a rebuilding squad where his role is limited, Middleton might be open to a buyout and a chance to contend. His experience and mid‑range scoring could help take pressure off San Antonio’s young stars in tight games.
Why he fits:
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Proven postseason contributor
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Fits a complimentary scoring role
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Veteran presence in the locker room
🔹 3. Marvin Bagley III – Athletic Frontcourt Depth
At just 26 years old, Marvin Bagley III still offers impressive athleticism and efficiency. If he becomes available via buyout — after falling out of the rotation — Bagley could bring lobs, transition scoring, and toughness to the Spurs’ frontcourt. He’d be a dynamic depth piece next to Wembanyama’s more traditional big game, especially in small‑ball lineups.
Why he fits:
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Youthful upside
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Strong finisher and transition threat
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Affordable scoring spark
🔹 4. Matisse Thybulle – 3‑and‑D Wing Upgrade
If San Antonio wants to improve perimeter defense and spacing, Matisse Thybulle could be an intriguing buyout target. A perennial 3‑and‑D specialist, Thybulle would give the Spurs a true defensive stopper on the wing — a luxury for deep playoff rotations. Even though his minutes have been limited, his length and instincts make him valuable in matchups against star wings.
Why he fits:
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Elite perimeter defender
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Spot‑up shooting when hot
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Enhances second‑unit length
What This Means for San Antonio
The Spurs cleared a roster spot after parting ways with Jeremy Sochan, freeing up a chance to add a player who can help in the short term.
San Antonio is currently one of the top teams in the West, and these buyout options focus on complementary skills — whether it’s interior size, veteran leadership, or defensive versatility. Adding any of these names could help the Spurs remain competitive down the stretch and into the playoffs.
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