Victor Wembanyama’s trade value is under fire after ESPN analyst Vincent Goodwill criticized the San Antonio Spurs for allegedly undervaluing the 20-year-old French center in recent discussions. The remarks, made in a June 18 interview, suggest the Spurs may be reluctant to part with Wembanyama’s rights in any major deal, raising questions about their long-term strategy.

Why Did ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill Criticize the Spurs? Goodwill, a respected NBA trade analyst, argued that the Spurs’ reluctance to include Wembanyama in high-level trades reflects a miscalculation. According to reports, the Spurs have yet to engage in serious talks involving Wembanyama’s future, despite his elite two-way potential. Goodwill’s comments came amid speculation that the Spurs could explore a blockbuster deal this offseason—but only if Wembanyama’s value is properly recognized.

What Does This Mean for Victor Wembanyama’s Future? The criticism puts pressure on the Spurs to clarify their stance. Wembanyama, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has already established himself as a two-time All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year candidate. If the Spurs refuse to trade him, they risk losing leverage in future negotiations. Conversely, if they’re open to deals, Wembanyama’s inclusion could unlock bigger assets—but only if teams are willing to meet the Spurs’ asking price.

How Could the Spurs Respond? The team has not publicly addressed Goodwill’s remarks, but their silence speaks volumes. General manager Jerry West has historically prioritized long-term stability over short-term wins, and Wembanyama’s development remains a cornerstone of that vision. However, if the Spurs want to compete for a championship in the next cycle, they may need to reconsider how they package Wembanyama’s rights—especially if rivals like the Los Angeles Lakers or Golden State Warriors re-enter the conversation.

What’s Next for Wembanyama’s Trade Status? The NBA’s trade deadline is July 6, but serious discussions about Wembanyama’s future are unlikely before August, when free agency begins. Until then, the Spurs will watch how other teams react to Goodwill’s analysis. If multiple franchises signal interest in Wembanyama’s rights, the Spurs may finally open the door to a trade—though they’ll demand maximum value in return.