The San Antonio Spurs have long been linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo in NBA trade rumors, although there's less and less reason for the Spurs to pursue the superstar.
Imagine, for a second, the San Antonio Spurs boasting a frontcourt of both Victor Wembanyama and Giannis Antetokounmpo. On both sides of the ball, it would be the undisputed best duo in the NBA, and the most dominant paint presence since Tim Duncan and David Robinson.
Now, imagine that the Spurs had Wemby and Giannis but were without De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Harrison Barnes. Suddenly, the dream frontcourt doesn't look so good.
In an effort to go all-in and build a title-worthy core around Wembanyama, the Spurs were linked to Antetokounmpo last season, over the summer, and before the trade deadline. As the Bucks prepare to miss the postseason and Giannis' future in Milwaukee remains up in the air, expect several teams to make offers or show interest.
Despite months of rumors, the Spurs won't pick up the phone.
San Antonio Spurs Back Out Of Trade Rumors
As they stand, the Spurs are one of the best teams in the league and boast winning records over every franchise with a better record.
Why break up their young core, which will only get better, for a superstar nearing the end of his prime?
Over the summer, when fans weren't quite sure just how good Stephon Castle and Dylan Harper would be, trading for the Greek Freak was the safe bet, which would certainly open up a title window.
Even without a splashy trade, the Spurs are firmly in contention and ahead of schedule, ruling out a Giannis move even as he gets put back in trade rumors.
Of course, that doesn't mean that the Spurs are immune to roster changes, trades, or rumors. They have ample assets and matching salaries. They could ship off for a more established player, although smaller-time names like Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, and OG Anunoby stand out.
By adding players like those, the Spurs could enhance their core without uprooting their roster. Giannis is one of the best players in the world, and he will fetch a price that reflects that. Expect 20 or more teams to show interest, but the Spurs, Thunder, Celtics, and Pistons--the best of the best--will stand pat and see just how far their current roster can take them.