A new experienced teammate for Victor Wembanyama!

Kelly Olynyk is changing teams again. After being traded to the Washington Wizards earlier in the offseason, the Canadian veteran is heading to a new franchise. The San Antonio Spurs have acquired his services in exchange for Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley and a 2026 second-round pick.

The Washington Wizards are trading Kelly Olynyk to the San Antonio Spurs for Malaki Branham, Blake Wesley and a 2026 second-round pick (least favorable of Dallas, Philadelphia, Oklahoma City), sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/JWiOF2nzq2

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 8, 2025

San Antonio strengthens its frontcourt behind Victor Wembanyama

According to ESPN sources, the trade allows the Spurs to add an experienced player to their interior rotation. This acquisition aims to provide more depth behind their superstar Victor Wembanyama, after also signing Luke Kornet.

Olynyk will bring his offensive skills to the Texas roster. Standing at 6’11 », he set a career-high in three-point shooting last season with 42% accuracy. Moreover, over the past three seasons, he has posted impressive shooting statistics: 52% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 83% from the free-throw line. Finally, during this same period, he converted 41% of his catch-and-shoot three-point attempts.

Olynyk will be able to contribute his offensive skills to the Texas roster. Indeed, the 6’11 » player achieved a career-best three-point percentage last season with 42% accuracy. Furthermore, over the past three seasons, his shooting statistics have been impressive: 52% field goal percentage, 40% from three, and 83% from the free-throw line. He also shows, during this same period, 41% accuracy on catch-and-shoot three-pointers.

Washington bets on the future with two young talents

For the Wizards, this trade perfectly aligns with their rebuilding strategy. The organization acquires two 22-year-old players: Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, who represent interesting prospects for the future.

The 2026 second-round pick obtained in the transaction will be the least favorable among those from Dallas, Philadelphia and Oklahoma City. This additional selection provides the Wizards with an extra resource to continue building their roster.

Olynyk had been acquired by Washington from the New Orleans Pelicans in a trade centered around CJ McCollum and Jordan Poole. His stay in the American capital was ultimately short-lived, but he now joins an ambitious team in San Antonio. His outside shooting skills and experience will be valuable in supporting Victor Wembanyama.