Since joining the San Antonio Spurs in 2022, Jeremy Sochan has been considered a key member of the team’s core. Now, nearly three years later, it would appear that the Spurs are willing to part ways with the forward.
In a recent report, NBA insider Marc Stein noted that the Spurs have given Jeremy Sochan and his camp permission to gauge trade interest in the market, potentially paving the way for the forward’s exit ahead of the deadline next week.
“League sources say that Jeremy Sochan and his representation have received permission from the Spurs to explore the landscape for a potential new home via trade,” Stein wrote on his Substack.
This is an interesting approach on behalf of the Spurs, who sit in second place in the West with a 31-15 record. Given what Sochan brings to the table, primarily with his defensive versatility and rebounding upside, he would have a solid role in the rotation.
Unfortunately, with his role becoming less clear as the season progresses and a distinct drop-off in playing time, it would appear that Sochan may be the one who benefits more from a trade.
This season, the forward is averaging 4.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.4 steals per game while shooting 48.0% from the field and 25.7% from three-point range. Given that this is well below what he is capable of producing, we explore four teams that could emerge as the ideal landing spots for the 22-year-old.
New York Knicks
Proposed Trade Details
New York Knicks Receive: Jeremy Sochan
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Guerschon Yabusele, Pacome Dadiet, 2026 second-round pick (BOS/DET/MIL)
The New York Knicks have actively been gauging the market for roster upgrades. While this has primarily seen them linked with defensive-minded point guards, the Knicks have also been interested in acquiring solid frontcourt players.
Given their inclination to trade Guerschon Yabusele, a trade scenario that allows them to bring over Jeremy Sochan as a replacement may seem quite favorable. While Yabusele adds toughness to the Spurs’ frontcourt depth, Sochan serves as a reliable defensive presence.
The Knicks are currently one of the best teams in the East. Although they went through a rough patch earlier in the month, after three consecutive wins, New York seems to have turned things around again.
Joining the Knicks may not necessarily aid Sochan’s development, since he will still have a bench role. However, given what New York needs from him, he may earn more playing time.
Brooklyn Nets
Proposed Trade Details
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jeremy Sochan
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Haywood Highsmith, 2028 second-round pick (ATL)
The Brooklyn Nets, unlike the Knicks, aren’t in a position to contend for a playoff berth this season. Given that they are likely to continue with their rebuild, adding a young swingman with considerable upside may be in their best interests.
The Nets are currently on the verge of making some large-scale roster changes. With the likes of Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton generating a significant amount of trade interest, Brooklyn will likely need to find some solid roster pieces to build around.
On a rebuilding roster, Jeremy Sochan is likely to earn a much larger role and is almost guaranteed a spot in the starting lineup. Although the forward doesn’t position himself as a primary scoring option, his ability to contribute through sheer defensive effort and hustle could prove immensely valuable in establishing a winning culture early on.
The Nets may see this move as a low-risk addition regardless. With Sochan in the final year of his contract, Brooklyn can benefit from taking on his $7 million expiring contract.
Washington Wizards
Proposed Trade Details
Washington Wizards Receive: Jeremy Sochan
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Malaki Branham, Cam Whitmore, 2027 second-round pick (BKN or DAL)
The Washington Wizards are another team in the middle of a rebuild. After acquiring Trae Young in the only blockbuster trade thus far, the Wizards are poised to become a more interesting team next season.
Currently, the Wizards boast some talented players on their roster, including the likes of star big man Alex Sarr and sophomore talent Kyshawn George. While these two pieces are positioned as solid assets to support Trae Young, Washington may benefit from adding another versatile defender to bolster their roster strength.
Jeremy Sochan positions himself as a high-impact player for Washington. While his scoring may not garner much attention, his ability to win second-chance opportunities and provide defensive support for Sarr could have immense value for the Wizards.
Khris Middleton’s contract will also expire at the end of this season. With an open spot in the starting frontcourt, the Wizards could consider re-signing Sochan to a more team-friendly deal to ensure he grows into his role as a key member of the team’s new core.
Golden State Warriors
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jeremy Sochan
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Buddy Hield, 2030 second-round pick
The Golden State Warriors‘ season has effectively been derailed by injuries. While the Warriors’ only hope of salvaging this season would be to make blockbuster trades, potentially centered around Jonathan Kuminga, recent updates suggest that the team may be averse to such a move.
In this regard, the next best alternative for Golden State would be to acquire a reliable defensive and rebounding upgrade to support Draymond Green. Hence, a player like Jeremy Sochan, who boasts similar tools to Green, may be favorable.
Although Sochan’s production has dropped considerably this season, trends have displayed that he showed signs of development as a perimeter shooter last season. While shooting 53.5% from the field and 30.8% from three-point range last year, Sochan also positions himself as an efficient scorer when given the opportunity.
In the Warriors’ rotation, Sochan may not earn a starting spot, primarily due to Green’s presence. But given how vital his role would be in providing relief for Green, the 22-year-old could earn significant minutes, enabling him to assert himself as an impact player.
What’s The Best Approach For Jeremy Sochan?
If Jeremy Sochan approaches this trade deadline with the intent of facilitating a move out of San Antonio, it would be advisable for the forward to join a rebuilding team.
At this stage in the season, joining a contender wouldn’t necessarily guarantee consistent minutes in the rotation for the 22-year-old, despite his inherent upside and impact. Along with personal dissatisfaction, it could have a negative impact on his upcoming contract discussions once he enters the free agency market.
On a rebuilding team, Sochan would have a greater opportunity to establish himself as a vital role player, showcasing his talents and future value. Hence, joining teams like the Wizards, the Nets, or even the Pelicans may prove more worthwhile.
Conversely, Sochan could play out the remainder of this season with the Spurs and opt to test free agency next season. Given that he is still viewed as a valuable member of the lineup, San Antonio is likely to have use for him once the postseason rolls around.
