The San Antonio Spurs’ 21-7 start and trip to the NBA Cup final have not altered the franchise’s long-term approach, league insiders told Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal. Executives quoted in the report said San Antonio is unlikely to sacrifice future flexibility for a headline acquisition this season. “They’re not going to sit around being satisfied,” one source said, “but I don’t see them making a move like trading for Giannis.”
Sources added that the Spurs will keep building around their young core unless a complementary piece that aligns with their timeline becomes available. One executive pointed to the Magic’s recent move for Desmond Bane as a template, suggesting someone such as Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III could fit San Antonio’s needs.
Bucks and Giannis
Should Giannis Antetokounmpo ever reach the trade market, Eastern Conference teams are expected to lead the pursuit, according to Afseth. The Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks and Toronto Raptors were listed as probable suitors. Rival executives remain doubtful the Knicks would overhaul their roster midseason, and Atlanta has reportedly refused to include forward Jalen Johnson in any discussions. Milwaukee continues to indicate it prefers adding pieces around Antetokounmpo rather than moving the two-time MVP.
Jazz Walk Fine Line
Utah is determined to keep its top-eight–protected 2026 first-round pick while still fostering a winning culture, Afseth and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported. Internally, Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George and Walker Kessler are viewed as foundational players. Veterans Kyle Anderson, Jusuf Nurkic, Kevin Love and Georges Niang are considered candidates for in-season deals. Management and ownership remain confident that head coach Will Hardy is the long-term answer on the bench.
Saddiq Bey Drawing Calls
Pelicans forward Saddiq Bey is attracting interest from clubs seeking wing depth, per Afseth. The 24-year-old, who missed last season recovering from a torn ACL, is averaging 15.0 points and 6.1 rebounds in just under 30 minutes over 29 games (21 starts). With the trade deadline approaching, executives value his blend of size, versatility and renewed health.
Source: Hoops Wire
