The Spurs opt for potential here, and Precious Achiuwa has displayed plenty over the course of this season. Memphis’ lesser known prospect, Achiuwa has benefited from the increased spotlight in Wiseman’s absence. He has a real chance at the lottery.
Achiuwa is a tantalizing athlete. He’s 6-foot-9, wields a 7-foot-3 wingspan, and has collected defensive stats in bulk all campaign. He’s springy in the open court, he’s a hound on the glass, and he’s mobile enough to defend effectively in space.
The Spurs have to look beyond the LaMarcus Aldridge–DeMar DeRozan pairing at some point. Dejounte Murray and Lonnie Walker are the most promising young pieces on the roster, and Achiuwa leaves Popovich with a strong defensive core moving forward.