As NBA free agency heats up, the San Antonio Spurs have made a notable move, preparing to sign former Boston Celtics big man Luke Kornet. After a disappointing 2024–25 season, the Spurs are determined to add key pieces who can help reshape their future.
Outside of standouts like Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, and Devin Vassell, much of the roster underperformed. One bright spot was Stephon Castle, who claimed Rookie of the Year honors after averaging an impressive 14.7 points and 4.1 assists per game.
With Kornet’s arrival, the Spurs are hoping to kickstart a roster revamp. His former teammate Jayson Tatum, however, had a brief two-word reaction to the news of his departure.
Jayson Tatum Hails the Move of Luke Kornet to the San Antonio Spurs
As reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, Kornet has agreed to a four-year deal with the Spurs. The post further underlined the details of the contract, which was negotiated with Kornet’s agent, Max Wiepking. Kornet, who played 73 games in the last season for the Celtics, averaged 6.0 PPG and 5.3 RPG, and 1.6 APG.
“Free agent center Luke Kornet has agreed to a four-year, $41 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs, sources tell ESPN,” Charania posted. “Key frontcourt addition for the Spurs, who negotiated a contract tonight with Kornet’s agent Max Wiepking of Gersh Sports.”
Free agent center Luke Kornet has agreed to a four-year, $41 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs, sources tell ESPN. Key frontcourt addition for the Spurs, who negotiated a contract tonight with Kornet’s agent Max Wiepking of Gersh Sports. pic.twitter.com/cLnXxWJ2cv
– Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025
For his part Tatum, was very happy about this move. He shared the ESPN post on his Instagram story, captioning it “Much deserved.”
The post was another ode to the friendship that the two share off the court. The duo was an obvious hit for the Celtics in their fine run last season. However, financial complications have led to quite a few manoeuvres for Boston ahead of the upcoming season.
The 29-year-old center has proven his worth for the Celtics in the last five seasons. Towering at 7’1″, Kornet brought a size and toughness to Boston. He managed to get 16 starts last season out of the 73 games last season.
San Antonio Spurs Have Been Heavily Active Since the 2025 NBA Draft
As for the Spurs, they’ve been actively reshaping their roster for next season. One of their key additions is rookie Dylan Harper, the second overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Known for his elite ball-handling and playmaking ability, Harper is expected to add valuable depth and versatility to the team’s backcourt.
Apart from Harper, they also added Carter Bryant, who has been tipped as one of the rookies to watch in 2025.
With the Kornet deal nearly finalized, the Spurs are also reportedly targeting Philadelphia 76ers power forward Guerschon Yabusele. According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, San Antonio is eager to add Yabusele’s experience, a move that could significantly benefit their young core.
The front office’s intent is clear: surround Wembanyama and the rising talent on the roster with seasoned, high-IQ players who can help push the Spurs back into playoff contention.
With strategic signings like Kornet and a potential deal for Yabusele, San Antonio appears to be building a more balanced, competitive squad for the 2025–26 campaign.