Breaking: Gregg Popovich point out the skillfull player he must trade in for this offseason..

1 Spurs move to round out perfect offseason

Even though they had a fantastic off-season, the San Antonio Spurs’ best NBA free agency decision may

have been the one they chose not to make. Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz has apparently been linked

to them, although the asking price is very high. The 27-year-old forward is a great fit for the Spurs, but

they want to handle him similarly to how they did with Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes.

San Antonio is not ready to limit their future by signing long, expensive contracts or giving up the most

sought-after of their several first-round draft selections, even as they continue to assemble a roster

around Victor Wembanyama.

According to reports at the start of the month, general manager Brian Wright made a formal trade bid

for Markkanen. Very recently, more stories have emerged suggesting that the Spurs are still in the

running. One explanation is the lack of clarity about the Jazz’s plans moving forward with the Finnish

native.

The decision on whether to renew Markkanen’s contract is due on August 6. Renegotiating with their top

scorer and re-adding him to the roster come February’s trade deadline may be one path Utah takes as

they considers their options before then. Another is to let him finish out his deal next season at $18

million.

That means there is still a chance for a trade this summer. According to sources who spoke with Brett

Siegel of ClutchPoints, the Spurs have indicated that they would be open to parting with numerous first-

round picks in addition to forward Keldon Johnson in a possible trade for Markkanen. San Antonio is

eager to deal for Johnson, but they still have faith in his progress.

The Jazz have been demanding a high price from any team interested in their 2023 All-Star from the

beginning. General Manager Danny Ainge reportedly desires many first-round selections. That is not

San Antonio’s issue.

Every draft through 2031, the Spurs will have several first-round picks or at least first-round pick

exchange alternatives. That includes four potential picks in the first round come summertime. And that

is where the key is.