The San Antonio Spurs have been linked to several players in NBA trade rumors, and it's clear that there's one player on the roster who is very much expendable.
As the San Antonio Spurs emerge as contenders after a long rebuild, they still boast enough assets to make a splashy trade before the deadline.
The Spurs have been linked primarily to shooters Lauri Markkanen and Trey Murphy III, and with the salaries of Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell, Kelly Olynyk, and/or Jeremy Sochan, should be enough to match most superstars' salaries.
However, Vassell has cemented himself as the most important shooter on the team and remains arguably the third-best starter. Considering the Spurs are weak at the wing, trading him seems foolish.
Johnson, as well, plays a key role. He is the heart and soul of the team, as well as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate. Most fans wouldn't want to see him leave, either.
That leaves the Spurs with one clear option heading into trade season.
Spurs Must Trade Harrison Barnes
The Spurs landed Barnes in a three-team trade with the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls, and were actually given a future first-round pick for taking on his salary.
Last season, he had the best shooting season of his career, making 43.3% of his attempts from deep. This season, it's fallen to 36.4%, by far the lowest since his time with the Dallas Mavericks.
Of the Spurs' starters, Barnes is the worst defender. In fact, one could argue he's the worst defender on the roster. Add that to his current cold streak and overall lackluster play this season, and it's clear that his time in San Antonio is running short.
Owed $19 million this season, Barnes is in the last year of his contract. The Spurs could easily add the infrequently-used Olynyk and Sochan, who are also on expiring deals, to a trade package. Add in ample draft capital, and pretty much any player should be attainable.
Last season, Barnes was a valuable shooter and veteran. This season, De'Aaron Fox and Johnson have stepped into a leadership role, and if the shots aren't falling, there's simply less reason for Barnes to stick around.
As the Spurs field calls before the February deadline, Barnes' name should be the first that they float in talks. In order to add a win-now player who fits the timeline and upgrades the forward position, moving on from Barnes is a no-brainer.