Kelly Olynyk Traded to Spurs in Multi-Player NBA Deal

Kelly Olynyk is on the move once again. The veteran forward is being traded for the third time in just five months, this time joining the San Antonio Spurs. A person familiar with the deal said the Washington Wizards have agreed to send Olynyk to San Antonio in exchange for young guards Malaki Branham and Blake Wesley, plus a second-round draft pick. The trade is still awaiting formal approval from the National Basketball Association.

 The past few months have been a whirlwind for Olynyk. Back in February, he was dealt from the Toronto Raptors to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Brandon Ingram to Toronto. Only weeks later, the Pelicans traded Olynyk to Washington in the deal that moved Jordan Poole to New Orleans and brought CJ McCollum to the Wizards.

Now, he’ll suit up for San Antonio, adding veteran experience and frontcourt depth to a Spurs roster built around rising star Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs have also brought in big man Luke Kornet this summer and acquired point guard De’Aaron Fox last season, further strengthening their lineup.

For the Wizards, this trade represents another step in their rebuilding process. The deal creates a $13 million trade exception for Washington, giving the team greater financial flexibility to absorb contracts or pursue future trades. With two more young players and an extra draft pick, the Wizards are focused on collecting assets and preparing for next summer, when they could have as much as $100 million in salary cap space.

Olynyk, who will be entering his 13th season, has built a reputation as a reliable and skilled big man. Throughout his career, he has averaged 10.2 points and 5.2 rebounds while playing for eight different teams, including the Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors, New Orleans Pelicans, and most recently, the Wizards.

Although frequent trades can be challenging, Olynyk has consistently adapted and contributed wherever he lands. Now, he’ll bring that steady presence to San Antonio, aiming to help the Spurs return to contention in the Western Conference.