As the NBA trade deadline gets closer and closer, the San Antonio Spurs have yet to make a move. Even if they don't want to pull off a blockbuster, there is still talent to be had at a position of need.
The NBA trade deadline is less than 24 hours away, and some shocking deals have been made. The Dallas Mavericks sent Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards for a future-driven package, the Memphis Grizzlies signaled a rebuild by sending Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, and the Los Angeles Clippers and Cleveland Cavaliers swapped point guards.
The San Antonio Spurs, despite being included in more than their fair share of rumors, have yet to make a move. Of course, the Spurs boast Jeremy Sochan and draft picks, plus the expiring contracts of Harrison Barnes and Kelly Olynyk, and have been linked to superstar forwards like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lauri Markkanen.
With Barnes moved to the bench and the best rebounder on the team--Victor Wembanyama--eager to play outside of the paint, the Spurs need to make a move to land a traditional power forward. With Memphis embracing a long future, San Antonio could turn to their divsional rival to make a trade.
Spurs Should Target Grizzlies on Trade Deadline
The Grizzlies' most notable trade chip this season remains Ja Morant, although injuries, suspension, and low-effort play have tanked his value. Plus, the Spurs don't need to add another pricey point guard.
With Jackson Jr. gone, the Grizzlies are likely inclined to part with any veteran talent they have for draft picks. The Spurs should be interested in Santi Aldama, or, as a cheaper alternative, could target Brandon Clarke.
Aldama has three seasons left on his contract and is owed roughly $18 million per season. Clarke is cheaper and only has two years left, although he is much more injury-prone and is a less well-rounded offensive player. However, he is the better defender and can occupy the paint in a more traditional way.
After the Grizzlies shed Jackson Jr.'s salary, they could take back Barnes in a one-for-one swap for either player, opening up some cap space in the coming offseasons. For Aldama, who is averaging 14 points and 6.7 rebounds per game while shooting 35.1% from deep, the Spurs would likely have to attach a draft pick.
Clarke has only played two games this season and is expected to miss several more weeks. While he fills a position of need, he has never played more than 65 games in a season.
A player like Markkanen or Trey Murphy III would space the floor better for the Spurs and would give them a boost of star power, although the Spurs are notorious for taking things slow and doing things the "right way." Cashing in some draft capital to land an overlooked, win-now player like Aldama fits with the Spurs' M.O perfectly, and as the clock winds down, it is well worth exploring.