Jeremy Sochan’s journey with the San Antonio Spurs has come to an abrupt halt. On February 11, 2026, the Spurs officially released the 22-year-old forward, clearing the way for the 2023 All-Rookie team member to hit the NBA free agent market. The move, confirmed by multiple sources including ESPN’s Shams Charania, marks a significant turning point for both Sochan and a Spurs organization seeking to reshape its roster after a turbulent few seasons.
Sochan, the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, had arrived in San Antonio with high expectations. His rookie campaign was a bright spot: he earned a spot on the 2022-23 All-Rookie Second Team, averaging 11 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. His versatility, defensive prowess, and infectious energy quickly made him a fan favorite. In his first three seasons, Sochan started 149 games for the Spurs, logging 27.3 minutes per contest and contributing 11.4 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. That’s not too shabby for a youngster in a rebuilding franchise!
Yet, as the 2025-26 season unfolded, Sochan’s role diminished drastically. He found himself on the outside looking in as head coach Mitch Johnson experimented with new rotations. The emergence of rookie Carter Bryant and the acquisition of veteran Harrison Barnes squeezed Sochan out of consistent playing time. Since January 1, 2026, Sochan logged just 49 minutes and appeared in only 28 of the Spurs’ 53 games, averaging career lows: 12.8 minutes, 4.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game.
What led to such a steep drop-off? While Sochan’s defensive skills remained valuable, his offensive struggles became more pronounced. Over his career, he has shot just 28.7% from three-point range, a statistic that limited his effectiveness in a league increasingly reliant on floor spacing. The Spurs, for their part, never quite figured out how to maximize his skill set. He was deployed at various times as a point guard, a small-ball center, and everything in between. The lack of a defined role seemed to hinder his development.
As the NBA trade deadline approached, Sochan’s name surfaced in numerous trade rumors. The Spurs reportedly held discussions with the Suns, Bulls, and Knicks regarding possible deals. According to ESPN, the New York Knicks were particularly interested in acquiring the young forward, but San Antonio ultimately declined their offer. Unable to find a trade partner and with Sochan no longer part of their future plans, the Spurs opted to release him rather than let him languish on the bench.
“Both sides decided it was best to move on now and allow Sochan the opportunity to join a new team before the offseason,” reported ClutchPoints, citing league sources. This mutual decision opens up a fresh chapter for Sochan, who now becomes one of the most intriguing names on the NBA buyout market. Multiple playoff-contending teams are expected to inquire about his services within the next 48 hours, and it’s likely that Sochan already has a few suitors lined up for discussions about a minimum contract for the rest of the 2025-26 season.
Sochan’s early career in San Antonio was defined by his defensive versatility and willingness to do the dirty work. He made the NBA’s Rising Stars team in each of his first two seasons and became known for his colorful hair and unique one-handed free throw shooting style—a quirk that endeared him to fans and drew attention across the league. His energy and rebounding were bright spots on a Spurs team in transition, but the crowded forward rotation and the franchise’s shifting priorities left him without a clear path forward.
Despite his struggles this season, Sochan’s youth and athleticism make him a tantalizing option for teams seeking depth in the frontcourt. “If Sochan lands in a spot where he’s able to earn 20-plus minutes per game, he could emerge as a deep-league asset for his ability to rack up dimes and defensive stats,” noted CBS Sports. Indeed, his ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on the boards could be a difference-maker for playoff hopefuls or rebuilding squads alike.
Potential landing spots for Sochan are already generating buzz. The Chicago Bulls, who added several small guards at the deadline, are in need of frontcourt help and could be a logical fit. The Memphis Grizzlies, now rebuilding after trading Jaren Jackson Jr., are mining for young talent and might see Sochan as a worthwhile project. The Washington Wizards, searching for the right pieces around Anthony Davis and Trae Young, and the Indiana Pacers, who lost wing depth to trades and injuries, are also expected to express interest. Even the Los Angeles Lakers could use Sochan’s defensive-mindedness on the wing, though their salary cap constraints may present challenges.
Financial considerations will play a role in Sochan’s next destination. His expiring $7.1 million contract is unlikely to be claimed off waivers, meaning he’ll hit unrestricted free agency and can sign outright with any NBA team. Because he’s in his fourth season, Sochan remains two-way eligible, giving him flexibility if no standard contract is immediately available or if he wishes to join a team without a 15-man roster spot.
For the Spurs, Sochan’s departure opens up a roster spot that can be used to sign a player from the buyout market. The franchise, which did not make any in-season trades, continues its search for the right mix of youth and experience. The decision to waive Sochan signals a willingness to move on from former lottery picks who no longer fit the team’s evolving identity.
Sochan, meanwhile, faces a pivotal moment in his young career. After a promising start that included All-Rookie honors and a reputation as a defensive stopper, he now has the chance to reinvent himself on a new team. Will a fresh environment and a clearly defined role unlock the potential that made him a top-10 draft pick? Or will he continue to struggle for minutes in a league crowded with versatile forwards?
One thing’s for sure: Jeremy Sochan’s next move will be closely watched by front offices and fans across the NBA. As the buyout market heats up, the 22-year-old forward is poised to become one of the most sought-after free agents of the post-deadline period. Spurs fans may be saying goodbye, but for Sochan, the journey is far from over. The coming days will reveal which team bets on his talent—and whether he can seize this second chance to make his mark in the league.