Mitch Johnson’s Lineup Shake-Up Could Signal a Major Trade for the Spurs
Nearly 50 games into the season, the San Antonio Spurs are still fine-tuning their identity - and now, head coach Mitch Johnson might’ve just cracked the door wide open for the front office to make a move that could reshape the roster.
The biggest signal? Harrison Barnes, a veteran who had started 350 straight games, was recently moved to the bench in favor of Julian Champagnie. That’s not just a minor rotation tweak - it’s a seismic shift that could have ripple effects across the organization.
Barnes Benched, Trade Winds Swirling
Let’s be clear: this wasn’t a snap decision. Champagnie has been outplaying Barnes for most of the season, bringing more energy and versatility to the floor. But benching a player with Barnes’ résumé - and durability - doesn’t happen unless there’s a bigger picture in mind.
And that bigger picture might involve a trade.
Barnes is on a $19 million expiring contract, the kind of asset that front offices love at the deadline. Combine that with Jeremy Sochan - who’s also been phased out of the rotation - and a first-round pick, and suddenly you’ve got a package that could net San Antonio a borderline All-Star. Someone who can give the Spurs’ offense a real jolt.
There’s also the possibility of targeting a power forward to fill the void left by Barnes. One name that’s been floated: Bobby Portis Jr. from the Milwaukee Bucks. He brings toughness, shooting, and playoff experience - all traits that would complement Victor Wembanyama’s unique skill set.
Barnes’ Fit No Longer as Seamless
When things were clicking, Barnes looked like the perfect veteran to slot next to Wembanyama. He brought spacing, poise, and years of experience playing alongside stars like De’Aaron Fox. But at 34, and with his production dipping, that fit isn’t as snug as it once was.
It’s not just about age - it’s about direction. The Spurs are clearly leaning into their youth movement, and Barnes’ reduced role might be a sign that an extension is no longer in the cards.
That leaves San Antonio in a bit of a bind at the four. Sochan hasn’t developed as hoped, and Barnes is trending out of the rotation. That leaves a potential void - but also an opportunity.
Options on the Table: Trade, Draft, or Free Agency
The Spurs could go the trade route now, or wait until the offseason and use their mid-level exception to bring in a new power forward. They also hold a valuable pick from the Atlanta Hawks, which could be used in this year’s draft to address the position long-term.
That flexibility is key. Whether it’s Champagnie, Carter Bryant, or a player not yet on the roster, San Antonio has options - and that’s a good place to be.
What’s Next?
If Barnes isn’t traded, there’s still a chance he regains his footing and carves out a role in the second unit. But based on Johnson’s recent decisions, it feels like the writing is already on the wall.
The Spurs are a team building around a generational talent in Wembanyama. Every move from here on out needs to be about maximizing his growth and surrounding him with the right pieces.
Benching Barnes might seem like a small move on the surface. But in the context of where this team is headed, it could be the first domino in a much bigger shift.