As the 2025-26 season draws closer, so too is the rookie extension deadline for San Antonio Spurs forward Jeremy Sochan. He faces a make-or-break season, and both he and the Spurs may not be able to agree to an extension before the deadline.
While many Spurs fans are still high on Sochan, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently suggested that San Antonio could look to package him along with Harrison Barnes and Kelly Olynyk in a potential trade.
At first glance that would be controversial, with Barnes being a starter and a perfect fit next to Victor Wembanyama. Additionally, Sochan is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA even though his offense has lagged far behind.
Lastly, Olynyk projects to be the team’s third-string center but could play some at power forward. He can also help the team given his passing ability and 3-point shooting.
Nevertheless, if an impact player became available, then the Spurs should consider making a big trade.
Jeremy Sochan shouldn’t be off-limits in trade talks
Sochan has plenty of potential, but it hinges on his 3-point shooting. His shot regressed last season, with his free throw percentage dropping by double digits and shooting below average from three for the third straight season.
That puts more pressure on him to prove that he can shoot. While he has revamped his shot this summer, with it looking much better, it’s a lot to ask for him to suddenly become a good shooter four seasons into his career.
If he can, then he would instantly be a terrific player for the Spurs, with him being able to score off cuts, put backs, and hopefully knock down spot-ups. He’d also help turn San Antonio into a defensive juggernaut, with him being an elite isolation defender who can defend one through four and some fives.
There’s a lot to like about Sochan, but if he doesn’t improve as a shooter, then heshould be available in trade talks.
Who should the Spurs target at the trade deadline?
The obvious trade target would be Giannis Antetokounmpo, who would likely force the Spurs to trade Stephon Castle, Sochan, Devin Vassell, and Olynyk plus a platter of picks. Barring that, another option might be Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen.
He had a stellar showing in EuroBasket and could be in for a huge bounce-back season. If he reverts back to the mean, he’s one of the best shooters in the NBA and could fit the Spurs’ long-term salary.
Trading Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Sochan, and two firsts would instantly make the Spurs better while actually making them cheaper too. Vassell, Johnson, and Sochan combine to make more than Markannen does, especially considering a possible Sochan extension.
It would also clear out playing time for Castle, Dylan Harper, and Carter Bryant while solving the Spurs’ biggest problem, shooting. Of course, the best option would be for Sochan to pan out and turn into a starting-caliber four. But if he can’t, then he should be available in trade talks.