NBA Rumors: The former Real Madrid player who could end up playing with Victor Wembanyama

The star performance of Guerschon Yabusele in the 2024 Olympic Games caught the attention of the entire NBA. The Philadelphia 76ers took advantage by signing him to a one-year minimum veteran contract. His outstanding play in the international competition and with Real Madrid turned him into a sought-after talent. However, his short-term contract could make it difficult to retain him. Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report predicts that he will end up with the San Antonio Spurs.

Pincus recently explained the situation with the 76ers: "Like much of the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers were impressed by Guerschon Yabusele's performance in the 2024 Olympic Games. They managed to sign him to a one-year veteran minimum contract this past offseason, but that could make it challenging for them to re-sign him."

Now, as Yabusele enters free agency, several teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, could aggressively pursue him. Philadelphia faces financial obstacles in retaining Yabusele. They only hold his non-Bird rights, which limits their offer to a mid-level exception. If they approach the apron ($195.9 million), they would only have access to the taxpayer MLE of $5.7 million instead of the non-taxpayer MLE of $14.1 million.

Furthermore, the Sixers lack full control over their payroll. Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, and Eric Gordon have player options, complicating salary cap planning. The restricted free agency of Quentin Grimes could further complicate matters, as his late-season emergence might demand a significant payment.

Pincus emphasizes this uncertainty: "With Kelly Oubre Jr. ($8.4 million), Andre Drummond ($5 million), and Eric Gordon ($3.5 million) all having player options, the 76ers do not have full control over their payroll this offseason. Additionally, they have a restricted free agent in Quentin Grimes, who might command a decent salary due to his late-season breakthrough."

The Advantages of San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio enters the offseason in a much stronger financial position. They have the full non-taxpayer MLE at their disposal, allowing them to offer Yabusele a four-year contract worth up to $60.6 million. Given Philadelphia's financial constraints, matching such an offer could be challenging.

Moreover, the Spurs have a significant advantage: Victor Wembanyama. The French connection between Wembanyama and Yabusele could make San Antonio an appealing destination. Playing alongside a generational talent and possible long-term project could sway Yabusele to choose the Spurs over a Sixers roster with budget issues.

San Antonio could have 11 players under contract for $145 million if they pick up all their team options. They already have forwards like Harrison Barnes ($19 million), Devin Vassell ($27 million), Keldon Johnson ($17.5 million), and Jeremy Sochan ($7 million). However, the modern NBA demands wing depth.

Barnes's expiring contract could also make him a trade asset, creating opportunities for a new acquisition like Yabusele. If the Spurs aim to add more wing depth and bolster their rotation, Yabusele could be an excellent option.

Yabusele has proven his worth at the highest levels of international basketball and now enters free agency with significant interest. The Sixers want to retain him, but financial hurdles may prevent them from making a competitive offer. Meanwhile, the Spurs have the necessary flexibility and the presence of Wembanyama.

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