Spurs obtain Kelly Olynyk from Wizards in exchange for Branham, Wesley, and a second-round draft pick.
The recent trade between the San Antonio Spurs and the Washington Wizards has sent shockwaves through the NBA. The deal, which saw the Wizards part ways with veteran big man Kelly Olynyk, has notable implications for both teams' rosters and strategies.
### San Antonio Spurs Roster Impact
The Spurs have welcomed Olynyk, a versatile big man known for his shooting and ability to stretch the floor offensively. The 34-year-old averaged 8.7 points and 4.7 rebounds per game in the 2025 season, and if he suits up for San Antonio, he will be joining his eighth NBA team.
The trade indicates a shift towards strengthening the Spurs' big man rotation, as they traded away guards Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, who combined averaged 8.7 points per game. Olynyk's addition provides veteran experience and frontcourt depth to the Spurs, potentially complementing their younger players and offering a floor-spacing element.
### Washington Wizards Roster Impact
Incoming to the Wizards are Branham and Wesley, both entering their fourth NBA season. Branham, who averages close to 10 points per game, is considered ready to contribute immediately, while Wesley has shown potential but needs more minutes to develop fully.
The Wizards also acquired a 2026 second-round pick, the least favorable among the Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Oklahoma City Thunder, and gained a $13 million trade exception, providing financial and roster flexibility.
The trade aligns with the Wizards' apparent strategy to add young talent and build for the future, moving away from older veterans like Olynyk. The departure of Olynyk, who was briefly acquired in a trade involving Jordan Poole, suggests the Wizards are focusing on developing a younger backcourt core.
### Overall Analysis
The Spurs gain a veteran big man in Olynyk to enhance their frontcourt versatility and shooting, while the Wizards add two young guards with potential and a draft asset, signalling a youth-oriented rebuild and increased flexibility. This trade reflects contrasting team strategies: the Spurs invest in experienced frontcourt depth, while the Wizards focus on backcourt youth and draft capital to reshape their roster.
With the addition of Olynyk, the Spurs now have a solid third-string veteran big man option in the form of the experienced centre. Meanwhile, the Wizards have players who could be legitimate building blocks, such as Tre Johnson and Alex Sarr, as well as young players who haven't received much opportunity, like Will Riley and Bilal Coulibaly.
The Wizards have made a smart move dealing Olynyk for pieces who offer some long-term potential, as both Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley are just 22 years old. The trade is a strategic move that could shape the future of both teams in the NBA.
- The San Antonio Spurs' acquisition of Kelly Olynyk, a seasoned NBA veteran, marks a strategic shift towards bolstering their big man rotation, as they part ways with rising guard prospects Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley.
- In contrast, the Washington Wizards have traded Olynyk for younger, promising guards Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, along with a 2026 second-round draft pick and a trade exception worth $13 million, signifying a youth-oriented rebuild and increased roster flexibility.
