San Antonio Spurs in Transition: 5 Moves to Win Tim Duncan His 5th Ring - Bleacher Report

If Gerald Wallace's 31-point outburst against the Lakers is any indication of how he likes playing in Portland, he just might stick around. Wallace has a player option to return to Portland next year, and Portland would love to have him back.

That said, this offseason may be the best time for Wallace to test the free-agent market and pursue a longer contract guaranteeing him security into his 30s. Portland's small forward in waiting, Nic Batum, will be a restricted free agent this offseason as well, potentially making it difficult for Portland to offer both players lucrative, long-term deals.

Since Portland apparently flirted with the idea of trading Wallace as part of a deal that would have sent Dwight Howard to New Jersey, perhaps they'll let him walk this summer in pursuit of a long-term deal.

The San Antonio Spurs should take the money saved by amnestying Jefferson and reducing Duncan's salary to go after whichever small forward the Blazers deem expendable.

Portland might not be willing to match a $10 to $12 million deal for the relatively unproven Batum, or they may balk at the kind of extension Wallace has in mind. Either way, the Spurs can't afford to be quite as choosy at a position of need.

In Wallace, San Antonio would acquire a strong defender with the kind of hustle and tenacity that can put a team over the top. The Spurs need to get longer, tougher and meaner. And, they need slashers who can finish around the rim.

Wallace would also be the perfect mentor for young Kawhi Leonard, a player with similar size and ability. Leonard is a promising athlete and rebounder with tons of defensive upside, but he's struggled with his shot much like Wallace in his early days. 

Most importantly, a player like Gerald Wallace can make an impact in the paint on both sides of the ball. Richard Jefferson and smaller wing players like Neal and Anderson just don't have the size or the strength to make their presence felt inside. 

The 6' 8'' Batum has a nice wingspan, great range and is only 23. And like Tony Parker, he comes from France. It's hard to imagine the Blazers not retaining a player with his kind of upside, and it's hard to imagine the Spurs making a bid large enough to make Portland think twice.

After returning from China this spring, WIlson Chandler might also be available if he doesn't find a long-term deal later this year.

Like Wallace, Chandler is a formidable defender capable of disrupting plays with his length and strength. He's also a versatile threat on offense who can hit the three and finish strong inside.