There is Markannen to Spurs Buzz

[Knoxxx]

May just be parroting, but two different MSN articles today indicating Spurs are in the mix:

Lauri Markkanen would be a great fit with the Spurs (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/lauri-markkanen-would-be-a-great-fit-with-the-spurs/ar-BB1pdgBj?ocid=entnewsntp&pc=DCTS&cvid=7ef31f3bb1a74d5495c92160d9a1b419&ei=14)

[ducks]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/is-lauri-markkanen-headed-to-the-san-antonio-spurs/ar-BB1pd3VP

[Knoxxx]

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/is-lauri-markkanen-headed-to-the-san-antonio-spurs/ar-BB1pd3VP

“I was going to say that to me that would be a much more intriguing situation for Markkanen because of the way he would perfectly compliment Wemby. The Spurs are loaded up on picks, can still have cap space, or have easy ways to make the money match. That would be one heck of an addition if the Spurs want to be aggressive," MacMahon said. "Markkanen is not going to be traded for any sort of discounts, just to be clear.”
“The teams who are negotiating with the Jazz do think there's a good chance they're going to move them," Windhorst added.

[Rosewood]

Perfect fit, but due to the expiring contract and timing of this hypothetical trade (right before a supposed ‘historic’ draft) I hope if the deal is made we aren’t fucked too hard - we have all the leverage.

[DAF86]

Perfect fit, but due to the expiring contract and timing of this hypothetical trade (right before a supposed ‘historic’ draft) I hope if the deal is made we aren’t fucked too hard - we have all the leverage.

Exactly, there's no reason to overpay. It's clear the Jazz want to get rid of Lauri now so that they can bottom out for this upcoming draft. Markkanen shouldn't be nearly as expensive as Bridges.

[KobesAchilles]

The guy seems pretty injury prone.

[Raven]

if it's a salary dump, i'm all for it, but a player that can't play more than 66 games a year, can't be relied upon.

[scott]

If we trade for Lauri I'll rescind all of my criticisms of this FO and rejoin the Church of Sniff.

So long as we can retain our 25 picks, I don't care how many it will take (within reason). They'll be late FRPs anyway by then, and it's not like I trust these guys to draft anymore anyway.

In the name of Eric Zhang, make it happen please.

[Obstructed_View]

I know it's a homer take, but I think the Spurs with Paul and Markkanen are a playoff team nobody wants to match up with.

[Mr. Body]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.

[Kevin]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.

Lauri is averaging 24/8 on 49/39/88 shooting splits over the past two seasons. He’s an absolute stud on offense. Much better than Vessel who’s also a mediocre defender.

[CitizenDwayne]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.
Horrible comparison

[NASpurs]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.

:rollin Jesus

[LeBowen]

Lauri is a 7ft Klay Thompson without those supernova moments, but with better consistency.

Having someone who can average 25ppg on elite efficency without ever stopping the ball would be invaluable.

[RC_Drunkford]

nobody would be able to guard a Wemby/Markkanen pick & roll

[Dejounte]

I would say that Markannen is a better fit than Trae for sure.

[Obstructed_View]

if it's a salary dump, i'm all for it, but a player that can't play more than 66 games a year, can't be relied upon.
That's a good point. No better destination than San Antonio to have your minutes micromanaged.

[Mr. Body]

Lauri is averaging 24/8 on 49/39/88 shooting splits over the past two seasons. He’s an absolute stud on offense. Much better than Vessel who’s also a mediocre defender.

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.

Look, again, a couple off-brand picks are fine. But he's due $40 million after this season and has never improved a team he's been on. He is not the player too many people here think he is. I mean, just look at all the teams lining up for his services...

[BatManu20]

Markkanen is my wet dream but Ainge doesn't make trades unless he bends you over in the process. Would be too expensive imo. And Lauri is set to be overpaid next Summer too unfortunately.

[Leetonidas]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.

Is there any player in the NBA that doesn't play for the Spurs that you don't think sucks?

[R. DeMurre]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.


Last two seasons:

ORtg
Gabe Vincent: 104, 86
Markkanen: 125, 128

OBPM
Gabe Vincent: -3.1, -6.9
Marrkanen: +4.9, +5.1

OWS
Gabe Vincent: -0.3, -0.3
Markkanen: +6.3, +5.2


I know you're mostly just saying this to be a provocateur, but even in that context it's completely absurd.

[Dejounte]

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.

Look, again, a couple off-brand picks are fine. But he's due $40 million after this season and has never improved a team he's been on. He is not the player too many people here think he is. I mean, just look at all the teams lining up for his services...


Last two seasons:

ORtg
Gabe Vincent: 104, 86
Markkanen: 125, 128

OBPM
Gabe Vincent: -3.1, -6.9
Marrkanen: +4.9, +5.1

OWS
Gabe Vincent: -0.3, -0.3
Markkanen: +6.3, +5.2


I know you're mostly just saying this to be a provocateur, but even in that context it's completely absurd.

Provocateur is the right word for most of Body’s posts. Name the fucking players you want, Body. We’re tired of your manic episodes. I know the more people post about Markkanen, the more your frustration builds because you can’t handle the fact that people are disagreeing with you. Counting down any minute now before you explode and call everybody stupid, you little twat.

[Mr. Body]

I have to say, I like The Finn better than SpursTalk's usual obsessions with bad expensive players. But talk about throwing all these picks and players at him is wild. You realize he's on an expiring, right? And doesn't have much of a market? If you're so very much in love, just wait until next year and sign him outright. Sheesh, giving up unprotected picks next year. Totally insane.

[LeBowen]

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.

23-24: Jazz with Markkanen 22-33, without 9-18
22-23: Jazz with Markkanen 32-34 , without 5-11
totals: Jazz with Markkanen 54-67, without 14-29

54-67 is good for 44% winrate, 14-43 is good for 32%.
They shut him down both seasons to get a better pick.


Provocateur is the right word for most of Body’s posts. Name the fucking players you want, Body. We’re tired of your manic episodes. I know the more people post about Markkanen, the more your frustration builds because you can’t handle the fact that people are disagreeing with you. Counting down any minute now before you explode and call everybody stupid, you little twat.

If PATFO includes Jeremy in the trade, might aswell give them rights to Body's fandom.

[Sugus]

I know it's a homer take, but I think the Spurs with Paul and Markkanen AND WEMBY are a playoff team nobody wants to match up with.

FTFY, tbh. And totally agreed - health permitting.

[R. DeMurre]

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.


If you were a Laker fan or a Boston fan, you'd be saying this same thing about Wembanyama. The Jazz have been tanking the whole time Marrkanen has been in Utah, so of course win totals aren't going to be amassed giving minutes to scrubs after trading away pretty much every impact player they have.

[Obstructed_View]

FTFY, tbh. And totally agreed - health permitting.
Wemby is a Spur, bro.

[Mr. Body]

Provocateur is the right word for most of Body’s posts. Name the fucking players you want, Body. We’re tired of your manic episodes. I know the more people post about Markkanen, the more your frustration builds because you can’t handle the fact that people are disagreeing with you. Counting down any minute now before you explode and call everybody stupid, you little twat.

Lol:

Deandre Ayton
Trae Young
John Collins
Ben Simmons
Tobias Harris

These are THE players this forum has WORSHIPPED over the years, DEMANDING this FO sign them, or give up huge piles to get them. Don't you think that's pretty fucked up? Like... don't you think, maybe, maybe, maybe your desperation to get Lauri Markkanen is following the same chain?

That aside, just, if you need to pay huge money to a somewhat fit, go play EA Sports. It's wild how desperate you guys are to spend obscenely. If we can get him for what he's worth on an expiring - a couple picks at most - then fine. This shit about running up the tab is ridiculous.

But I think y'all just need to entertain yourself with this stuff. Being serious isn't part of the game.

[Obstructed_View]

Last two seasons:

ORtg
Gabe Vincent: 104, 86
Markkanen: 125, 128

OBPM
Gabe Vincent: -3.1, -6.9
Marrkanen: +4.9, +5.1

OWS
Gabe Vincent: -0.3, -0.3
Markkanen: +6.3, +5.2


I know you're mostly just saying this to be a provocateur, but even in that context it's completely absurd.
God damn, I can't tell them apart!

[NASpurs]

Lol:

Deandre Ayton
Trae Young
John Collins
Ben Simmons
Tobias Harris

These are THE players this forum has WORSHIPPED over the years, DEMANDING this FO sign them, or give up huge piles to get them. Don't you think that's pretty fucked up? Like... don't you think, maybe, maybe, maybe your desperation to get Lauri Markkanen is following the same chain?

That aside, just, if you need to pay huge money to a somewhat fit, go play EA Sports. It's wild how desperate you guys are to spend obscenely. If we can get him for what he's worth on an expiring - a couple picks at most - then fine. This shit about running up the tab is ridiculous.

But I think y'all just need to entertain yourself with this stuff. Being serious isn't part of the game.

And who do you want Mr Fat Body? So we can shit on them too.

[vy65]

Lol:

Deandre Ayton
Trae Young
John Collins
Ben Simmons
Tobias Harris

These are THE players this forum has WORSHIPPED over the years, DEMANDING this FO sign them, or give up huge piles to get them. Don't you think that's pretty fucked up? Like... don't you think, maybe, maybe, maybe your desperation to get Lauri Markkanen is following the same chain?

That aside, just, if you need to pay huge money to a somewhat fit, go play EA Sports. It's wild how desperate you guys are to spend obscenely. If we can get him for what he's worth on an expiring - a couple picks at most - then fine. This shit about running up the tab is ridiculous.

But I think y'all just need to entertain yourself with this stuff. Being serious isn't part of the game.

Huh? I can't recall anyone here pining over Ayton, Simmons, or Tobias. The Trae crowd has since dissipated and the Collins fetish was short-lived.

[Mr. Body]

If you were a Laker fan or a Boston fan, you'd be saying this same thing about Wembanyama. The Jazz have been tanking the whole time Marrkanen has been in Utah, so of course win totals aren't going to be amassed giving minutes to scrubs after trading away pretty much every impact player they have.

I mean, he's been in the league for like seven years and each team he left got better after. Utah will get better after. That ain't entirely his fault, but, I mean, if he was that good you'd think Utah would want to keep him or he'd actually be a leader on any of those teams and they wouldn't have sucked when he was there. Seven years. This ain't a star who's leading teams to playoff berths. This is a guy who shoots three pointers. And you want to spend up our draft hoard and then spend him superstar money.

Make. It. Make. Sense. Lol.

[Leetonidas]

And who do you want Mr Fat Body? So we can shit on them too.

Josh Primo :lol

[Mr. Body]

Huh? I can't recall anyone here pining over Ayton, Simmons, or Tobias. The Trae crowd has since dissipated and the Collins fetish was short-lived.

Yes, man, over the years these are the players this forum has gone absolutely GAGA over. Which is why I always laugh when they get angry that we didn't sign some also-ran or get angry at the Front Office, because we all know their ideas are about 1000% worse. People here were incredibly upset we didn't pay Tobias Harris the huge amount of money that became a lead weight for the Sixers. Every single one of those players were obsessed over here.

[NASpurs]

Josh Primo :lol

It's why that dumb fuck doesn't express who he wants anymore after that incident. :lol

[Mr. Body]

Josh Primo :lol

Lol, you know I wanted Sengun. Another thing I was right about.

[Dejounte]

Lol:

Deandre Ayton
Trae Young
John Collins
Ben Simmons
Tobias Harris

These are THE players this forum has WORSHIPPED over the years, DEMANDING this FO sign them, or give up huge piles to get them. Don't you think that's pretty fucked up? Like... don't you think, maybe, maybe, maybe your desperation to get Lauri Markkanen is following the same chain?

That aside, just, if you need to pay huge money to a somewhat fit, go play EA Sports. It's wild how desperate you guys are to spend obscenely. If we can get him for what he's worth on an expiring - a couple picks at most - then fine. This shit about running up the tab is ridiculous.

But I think y'all just need to entertain yourself with this stuff. Being serious isn't part of the game.

Name the players YOU want. Let’s all see it.

[Leetonidas]

Lol, you know I wanted Sengun. Another thing I was right about.

The majority of us wanted Sengun in that draft. And "another?" :lol what was the first thing?

[Mr. Body]

Like, I'll exit this dumb circle jerk, it's just the same ST nonsense. I don't even dislike Markkanen that much, it's just that you idiots make it hard not to.

Everyone gets things wrong here. We're all amateurs. Just pointing out how AWFULLY CONSTANTLY WRONG you all are IN EXACTLY THE SAME WAYS over and over and over.

[Leetonidas]

As always Body is conflating a handful of posters with the entire forum

[Mr. Body]

The majority of us wanted Sengun in that draft. And "another?" :lol what was the first thing?

So what. You're making it out like I was this big Primo booster when I wasn't. It was basically me and ecstatic who were all in on Sengun. The rest of y'all were, dunno. Pretended you were after the fact.

[Dejounte]

Like, I'll exit this dumb circle jerk, it's just the same ST nonsense. I don't even dislike Markkanen that much, it's just that you idiots make it hard not to.

Everyone gets things wrong here. We're all amateurs. Just pointing out how AWFULLY CONSTANTLY WRONG you all are IN EXACTLY THE SAME WAYS over and over and over.

So you’re a coward who’s too scared to put in your own original thoughts while constantly shitting on others. Yeah, that makes you so much better.

[Leetonidas]

So what. You're making it out like I was this big Primo booster when I wasn't. It was basically me and ecstatic who were all in on Sengun. The rest of y'all were, dunno. Pretended you were after the fact.

:lmao you really want to talk about how right you always are when you predicted a 40 win season and saying anyone who took the under was an idiot? Gmafb

[Leetonidas]

The entire forum was pissed when we drafted Primo. Only one sniffer said "you son of a bitch I'm in" on Primo :lol

[NASpurs]

As always Body is conflating a handful of posters with the entire forum

Seriously, there's like 200 members signed in right now and like maybe 15 have said they wanted Markannen. It's how people become bigots when you generalize like that. :lol

[exstatic]

One wonders if the Spurs keeping their cap sheet aqueeky clean for next summer is an arm bar on Ainge showing that if the price is too high, we’ll just sign him, outright.

[Dejounte]

One wonders if the Spurs keeping their cap sheet aqueeky clean for next summer is an arm bar on Ainge showing that if the price is too high, we’ll just sign him, outright.

If that is the case, it’s a very strategic move.

[R. DeMurre]

This is a guy who shoots three pointers.
Make. It. Make. Sense. Lol.

You know this isn't true. Markkanen gets to the rim and throws down more dunks per year than any player on the Spurs not named Victor. His mid range shooting is elite. His advanced stats are very good. The notion that he's nothing but a 3 pt shooter is ridiculous.

[Das Texan]

I'd be just fine with Spurs unloading almost any asset (within some modicum of reason) to acquire Lauri.

[spurraider21]

if it's a salary dump, i'm all for it, but a player that can't play more than 66 games a year, can't be relied upon.
:lmao

[ginobilized]

The Finnisher could open up the offense tremendously
This could put Sochan in the 6th man role as a defensive specialist for more mobile 4's

These things are always a crapshoot, but, I'd be thrilled with adding CP3 and Markkanen this off-season

If we could replace Zollins and Champagne while trading KJ and at least two of Branham/Wesley/Graham we'd be a respectable mid-level team with 1 All-Star, DPOY, 5th in MVP

[Chinook]

I think STers have echo-chambered themselves into having unrealistic expectations for the package that would be necessary for Markkanen.

As some examples:


Trade our pick, the Toronto pick, the Dallas swap, Keldon, and Graham for Mikal Bridges

That idea was later described as "overpaying for Bridges"


Keldon+Collins for Bridges+DFS. With 2 FRPs. Chicago and Toronto.



Nets got offer 4 FRP for Bridges and said NO. They’re idiots.

I didn't include names because I'm not trying to call folks out. I'm just saying that those who think Mark would be cheap are likely off-base. Whatever Uno reverse card you think the Spurs are going to be able to slap down to win the trade isn't likely to happen. This is what guys cost nowadays, and yes, the price is too damned high. That's why trading for a 2031 pick with the specific idea that it'll be some major trade piece doesn't make sense. It'll be a relative drop in the bucket for a major acquisition. A good player would have been worth a lot more.

The trade I proposed in that other thread basically leaves the Spurs unscathed in terms of their natural picks, which means they can go all-in for the right player if they so choose. I don't anticipate the Spurs getting out of the deal without significant pain, which is why trades involving Collins probably don't work on their face. Being able to swap Branham for Graham might be the best win the team could pull off if their goal is to maintain the free cap to give Lauri a raise this summer.

[baseline bum]

If we trade for Lauri I'll rescind all of my criticisms of this FO and rejoin the Church of Sniff.

So long as we can retain our 25 picks, I don't care how many it will take (within reason). They'll be late FRPs anyway by then, and it's not like I trust these guys to draft anymore anyway.

In the name of Eric Zhang, make it happen please.

I'd only be adamant on keeping the 2025 Atlanta pick if I'm getting Lauri. I think this is a really good offer for him:

* 2026 unprotected Spurs pick with unprotected ATL swap
* 2027 unprotected ATL pick
* 2030 unprotected Spurs pick with top 1 protected swap with Dallas and Minnesota
* 2031 unprotected Minnesota pick
* Keldon Johnson

That's a fucking haul and better than Brooklyn got for Bridges. Plus we keep our 25 thanks to the Stepien rule since I'm guessing Ainge would rather have our 26 with the ATL swap than our 25 when improved Wemby + Lauri could push this team to playoff contention.

[Knoxxx]

I think STers have echo-chambered themselves into having unrealistic expectations for the package that would be necessary for Markkanen.

As some examples:



That idea was later described as "overpaying for Bridges"





I didn't include names because I'm not trying to call folks out. I'm just saying that those who think Mark would be cheap are likely off-base. Whatever Uno reverse card you think the Spurs are going to be able to slap down to win the trade isn't likely to happen. This is what guys cost nowadays, and yes, the price is too damned high. That's why trading for a 2031 pick with the specific idea that it'll be some major trade piece doesn't make sense. It'll be a relative drop in the bucket for a major acquisition. A good player would have been worth a lot more.

The trade I proposed in that other thread basically leaves the Spurs unscathed in terms of their natural picks, which means they can go all-in for the right player if they so choose. I don't anticipate the Spurs getting out of the deal without significant pain, which is why trades involving Collins probably don't work on their face. Being able to swap Branham for Graham might be the best win the team could pull off if their goal is to maintain the free cap to give Lauri a raise this summer.

You seem to be continuously surprised that we are reactionary fools. How is that even possible?

[spurraider21]

obviously a markkanen acquisition would be fun but if ainge is going to try to bend us over, i'm not sure its worth. mark is an offensive weapon and a solid enough rebounder but is an average-ish defender, if not slightly below. and offensively he's potent as a scorer/finisher but isnt much of a passer. not that he's a black hole per se, but hes just not a particularly skilled passer

[LeBowen]

The trade I proposed in that other thread basically leaves the Spurs unscathed in terms of their natural picks, which means they can go all-in for the right player if they so choose. I don't anticipate the Spurs getting out of the deal without significant pain, which is why trades involving Collins probably don't work on their face. Being able to swap Branham for Graham might be the best win the team could pull off if their goal is to maintain the free cap to give Lauri a raise this summer.

If we get Markkanen, that would mean we're most likely not getting any major free agents the next summer.
What's your take on swapping Collins-es?

Lauri+Collins is a perfecty salary match with Keldon+Collins+Tre.

While both Collins-es are overpaid, John is obviously a way more useful player and his contract has the same duration.
I think Wemby/Lauri/Collins trio would do well because they're all interchangeable.
John Collins really got the short end of the stick by having to start at center.

If we talk basketball fit, Jeremy becomes the odd man for me.
CP3 acquisition means Castle will have to spend time off the ball, but having him and Jeremy play together shouldn't really be a thing.

Potential rotation if we do the bigger trade with Jazz:

PG: CP3 (30mpg), Castle (18)
SG: Devin (32), Branham (16)
SF: Castle (12), Batum (20), Champagnie (16)
PF: Lauri (32), J. Collins (12), Batum (4)
C: Wemby (32), J. Collins (16)

Obviously best players would play more in close games, but that looks reasonable and most importantly functional if we get rid of Tre, Keldon and Jeremy.
Branham is a scrub and Champagnie would be more useful than him, those minutes would change as the season goes on.

I just don't want Castle to not have minutes at point guard, which will happen if Tre sticks around.


So the trade would be Tre, Keldon, Collins, Jeremy for Lauri, Collins, with Chicago, Charlotte, Minnesota and '27 Spurs picks included. Maybe add another lottery protected Spurs pick.

[Dejounte]

obviously a markkanen acquisition would be fun but if ainge is going to try to bend us over, i'm not sure its worth. mark is an offensive weapon and a solid enough rebounder but is an average-ish defender, if not slightly below. and offensively he's potent as a scorer/finisher but isnt much of a passer. not that he's a black hole per se, but hes just not a particularly skilled passer

It’s about as good as it gets. Any other star like this will be either too old (DeMar, Butler, Lillard) or has flaws that are equally as bad, like Trae.

No player is going to be above average at everything AND will be available.

[DAF86]

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.

Look, again, a couple off-brand picks are fine. But he's due $40 million after this season and has never improved a team he's been on. He is not the player too many people here think he is. I mean, just look at all the teams lining up for his services...

Dude, stop it. Not every player that is putting stats on a bad team is empty calories. :lol Is Wemby empty calories? Because unless one more drastic move is made, he will put up big numbers again, and the Spurs will suck, again.

[spurraider21]

It’s about as good as it gets. Any other star like this will be either too old (DeMar, Butler, Lillard) or has flaws that are equally as bad, like Trae.

No player is going to be above average at everything AND will be available.
to be fair, this is the benefit of tanking, trading all our parts for a shitload of picks, and then just landy wemby with our first natural pick after that point :lol

have a lot of extra parts to spare without emptying the cupboard

[MannyIsGod]

Yes, man, over the years these are the players this forum has gone absolutely GAGA over. Which is why I always laugh when they get angry that we didn't sign some also-ran or get angry at the Front Office, because we all know their ideas are about 1000% worse. People here were incredibly upset we didn't pay Tobias Harris the huge amount of money that became a lead weight for the Sixers. Every single one of those players were obsessed over here.


Fucks sake man this shit is TIRED. Stop responding to INDIVIDUALS based on something someone else on a forum may or may not have claimed. People shoudln't have to defend against arguments they never fucking made.


Is there any thread that this fuck doesn't derail? Its so fucking annoying.

[MannyIsGod]

As always Body is conflating a handful of posters with the entire forum

Every. Fucking. Time.

[Mugen]

If the price is right, then I'd like Markkanen. I just don't see a scenario where BWrong doesn't get fleeced though. And for that reason, I'm out.

[Raven]

It’s about as good as it gets. Any other star like this will be either too old (DeMar, Butler, Lillard) or has flaws that are equally as bad, like Trae.

No player is going to be above average at everything AND will be available.

he's not a star, come on... he doesn't handle the ball and is entirely reliant on 3 pt shooting. I like him, but he is a 2nd/3rd option at best.

[Darkwaters]

I hear Petteri Koponen's draft rights are floating around in the open these days. Let's acquire Lauri Markannen and former Honka Playboy Koponen and Finnish this roster!

[scott]

I'd only be adamant on keeping the 2025 Atlanta pick if I'm getting Lauri. I think this is a really good offer for him:

* 2026 unprotected Spurs pick with unprotected ATL swap
* 2027 unprotected ATL pick
* 2030 unprotected Spurs pick with top 1 protected swap with Dallas and Minnesota
* 2031 unprotected Minnesota pick
* Keldon Johnson

That's a fucking haul and better than Brooklyn got for Bridges. Plus we keep our 25 thanks to the Stepien rule since I'm guessing Ainge would rather have our 26 with the ATL swap than our 25 when improved Wemby + Lauri could push this team to playoff contention.

This is the way

[baseline bum]

This is the way

Another reason I think this could be realistic other than essentially getting two Atlanta unprotected firsts is it expands Ainge's control over Minnesota's drafts to now go from 2025-31 with the exception of 2028 instead of 2025-29 with the exception of 28.

[scott]

If we get Markkanen, that would mean we're most likely not getting any major free agents the next summer.


Just wanted to comment on this - because when I look at potential FA's next summer, Markkanen is the top FA target anway.

If we could get Lauri while keeping our 25 picks, then we'll have a natural injection of talent coming anyway and would honestly still have some room for minor additions to fill in the gaps.

If UTA needs a 25 pick, I'd give them the worst of ATL/SA

[RC_Drunkford]

he's not a star, come on... he doesn't handle the ball and is entirely reliant on 3 pt shooting. I like him, but he is a 2nd/3rd option at best.

well we don’t need a 1st option so…

[baseline bum]

Just wanted to comment on this - because when I look at potential FA's next summer, Markkanen is the top FA target anway.

If we could get Lauri while keeping our 25 picks, then we'll have a natural injection of talent coming anyway and would honestly still have some room for minor additions to fill in the gaps.

If UTA needs a 25 pick, I'd give them the worst of ATL/SA

There's no way Utah would go for that when they can just get the Spurs 26 unprotected with the ATL swap that's probably a way better asset and gives them a shot at Dybantsa or Boozer. Taking the Spurs 25 means they can't get the 26 due to the Stepien Rule.

[Knoxxx]

Not sure if still just parroting but a third article today on MSN from SB Nation:

Rumor: Spurs interested in trading for Lauri Markkanen (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/rumor-spurs-interested-in-trading-for-lauri-markkanen/ar-BB1pdSUK?ocid=entnewsntp&pc=DCTS&cvid=4570075e57334632952f9811a5b00e64&ei=14)

[Manu&Duncan fan]

No we don't need to pay that much. All we need to do is to outbid Warriors. Here is the deal to get it done:

Keldon; Braham
2025 Chicago 1st
2025 Charlotte 1st
2027 Spurs unprotected
2029 Spurs unprotected
2031 Spurs unprotected
4 SRPs

[Mugen]

Would be an interesting fit to say the least. I don't like taking touches away from Victor but Markkanen gives them a ton of shooting which this roster desperately needs tbh.

[LeBowen]

There's no way Utah would go for that when they can just get the Spurs 26 unprotected with the ATL swap that's probably a way better asset and gives them a shot at Dybantsa or Boozer.

CHI '25, CHA '25, MIN '31, worse of SAS/ATL '25 and '27 would be as far as I'd go pick wise.
I'd still want to keep at least one FRP in every of the three upcoming drafts.

I'd make Jeremy available and value him equal to one of our own FRPs.
I'd do all those picks and Jeremy if our Collins is the only player they take.

Then we could get another frontcourt player with Tre and Keldon package.
I'd do Tre+Keldon for Brook Lopez if Bucks can match salaries.


Would be an interesting fit to say the least. I don't like taking touches away from Victor but Markkanen gives them a ton of shooting which this roster desperately needs tbh.

The thing is that he's not taking touches, just opening space.

https://i.imgur.com/BUwmGRl.png

He basically stopped taking mid-range shots and is either standing on the perimeter or cutting to the basket.

[baseline bum]

Just wanted to comment on this - because when I look at potential FA's next summer, Markkanen is the top FA target anway.

If we could get Lauri while keeping our 25 picks, then we'll have a natural injection of talent coming anyway and would honestly still have some room for minor additions to fill in the gaps.

If UTA needs a 25 pick, I'd give them the worst of ATL/SA

Also yeah Markkanen looks like by far the best available 2025 FA. Tatum and Brunson aren't leaving and I'd strongly prefer Lauri to Mitchell or Ingram. Wagner and Sengun are restricted so they're not worth considering and so is Mobley too (though he'd be a horrible fit anyways). Cunningham is off the market with the contract he got yesterday. Murray might be gettable but I'd prefer Markkanen.

[spurraider21]

1800169538803356156

[baseline bum]

No we don't need to pay that much. All we need to do is to outbid Warriors. Here is the deal to get it done:

Keldon; Braham
2025 Chicago 1st
2025 Charlotte 1st
2027 Spurs unprotected
2029 Spurs unprotected
2031 Spurs unprotected
4 SRPs

The Warriors will be a lottery team when Curry retires and their unprotected picks are worth way more than our 27, 29, and 31 would be. Golden State gets him if that's your best offer. My offer probably beats what they can offer unless Utah really loves Kuminga.

[K...]

Probably a top 5 aquisition. Most NBA stars are too old. The thing about stars is they sometimes get created by being on good teams. Anecdotally he is not a star but in the wembyverse ? All things are possible. This would also ameliorate the non shooting draft picks. If you have to overpay its not a bad target at all.

The only hiccup is an agreement to extend.


But MSN being the source probably means this is his agent leaking to extort the jazz to throw a max.

[MannyIsGod]

1800169538803356156

Yeah but did he beat out Gabe Vincent?

[vy65]

The Warriors will be a lottery team when Curry retires and their unprotected picks are worth way more than our 27, 29, and 31 would be. Golden State gets him if that's your best offer. My offer probably beats what they can offer unless Utah really loves Kuminga.

Maybe, but Lauri wouldn't extend in that case. I also doubt GSW would be trading unprotected 1sts since they're on the cusp of dismantling the team.

[baseline bum]

CHI '25, CHA '25, MIN '31, worse of SAS/ATL '25 and '27 would be as far as I'd go pick wise.


Then he goes to Golden State or OKC.


I'd make Jeremy available and value him equal to one of our own FRPs.

Wouldn't move the needle for Utah when Sochan is a below replacement level player.

[timvp]

I hear Petteri Koponen's draft rights are floating around in the open these days. Let's acquire Lauri Markannen and former Honka Playboy Koponen and Finnish this roster!

The Spurs are a step ahead of you -- he's a coach on the summer league team :lol

[LeBowen]

Then he goes to Golden State or OKC.

Wouldn't move the needle for Utah when Sochan is a below replacement level player.

I think OKC made their moves.
They're not getting another max player until they see which trajectory Chet and Williams take.
If they get and max Markkanen, their salaries would be ridiculous when those two extensions kick in and SGA would be in for a massive supermax a year later.

As for the Warriors, they're surely not dumb to give up post-Steph picks.
Their only hope is that Ainge really likes Kuminga, Moody and Podziemski.


Wouldn't move the needle for Utah when Sochan is a below replacement level player.

Right now he isn't, but maybe they see something in him and value his potential.

[vy65]

I really don't understand what a GSW trade for Mark looks like. Are they shipping a package of lottery protected picks (I don't see them shipping off unprotected picks with them losing Klay and CP and with Steph and Draymond entering the twilight of their careers). Are they packaging Kuminga/Podz/Jackson-Davis? That leaves Mark playing with the corpses of Klay and Draymond going forward - why would he extend there, particularly since he's ostensibly tired of being on losing teams. I do think GSW can put together a better package because of Kuminga, but that price seems to cost them the ability to bank on Mark staying there long term.

In my mind, a team like Orlando makes a ton of sense. They have some youth and picks that could be appealing.

[timvp]

Yeah, Lauri would be damn expensive. The Spurs would lose much of their war chest. I think baseline bum is on the right track regarding what it'd take.

[baseline bum]

Yeah, Lauri would be damn expensive. The Spurs would lose much of their war chest. I think baseline bum is on the right track regarding what it'd take.

You think he's worth it? Would still have our 25 picks and the 28 Boston swap. Definitely risky but that's what stars cost.

[DAF86]

Yeah, Lauri would be damn expensive. The Spurs would lose much of their war chest. I think baseline bum is on the right track regarding what it'd take.

And we would need to outbid who?

[Darkwaters]

Yeah, Lauri would be damn expensive. The Spurs would lose much of their war chest. I think baseline bum is on the right track regarding what it'd take.

I don't see the point of giving up our entire war chest for a guy that's going to be a free agent in 12 months. Besides, wouldn't the better sequence be to add a major player with cap space and THEN trade for your last piece using contracts like Keldon Johnson and Zach Collins (plus picks)?

[baseline bum]

I really don't understand what a GSW trade for Mark looks like. Are they shipping a package of lottery protected picks (I don't see them shipping off unprotected picks with them losing Klay and CP and with Steph and Draymond entering the twilight of their careers). Are they packaging Kuminga/Podz/Jackson-Davis? That leaves Mark playing with the corpses of Klay and Draymond going forward - why would he extend there, particularly since he's ostensibly tired of being on losing teams. I do think GSW can put together a better package because of Kuminga, but that price seems to cost them the ability to bank on Mark staying there long term.

In my mind, a team like Orlando makes a ton of sense. They have some youth and picks that could be appealing.

I think they'd be banking on trying squeeze one more ring out of Steph knowing it'll likely be 20+ years before they get another player like him and if that's the case unprotected firsts are pretty much all they could offer to entice the Jazz.

[NASpurs]

Around 51:40 Lowe and Marks talk about CP3 and Lauri possibly to the Spurs


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KO32Eh3wRyk

[itzsoweezee]

Empty stats on a bad team. Can't get his team wins.

Look, again, a couple off-brand picks are fine. But he's due $40 million after this season and has never improved a team he's been on. He is not the player too many people here think he is. I mean, just look at all the teams lining up for his services...

The Jazz had to belatedly tank because they were winning too much, but ok

[baseline bum]

And we would need to outbid who?

Golden State and OKC

[vy65]

I think they'd be banking on trying squeeze one more ring out of Steph knowing it'll likely be 20+ years before they get another player like him and if that's the case unprotected firsts are pretty much all they could offer to entice the Jazz.

Right, but if that's the offer, then GSW is leveraging themselves out of a reason for Lauri to extend. Seem's to me like they're facing a Hobson's choice.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Maybe, but Lauri wouldn't extend in that case. I also doubt GSW would be trading unprotected 1sts since they're on the cusp of dismantling the team.

This! Lauri wouldn't extend with warriors. People forgot that Lauri has a say in this process. Warriors won't want to pay more than 2 FRPs just for a one-season rental.

[itzsoweezee]

This isn’t the same old spurs team. Free agents will want to play here. That could avoid emptying the war chest on an expiring contract.

[baseline bum]

Right, but if that's the offer, then GSW is leveraging themselves out of a reason for Lauri to extend. Seem's to me like they're facing a Hobson's choice.


This! Lauri wouldn't extend with warriors. People forgot that Lauri has a say in this process. Warriors won't want to pay more than 2 FRPs just for a one-season rental.

Disagree, Golden State could offer him the fifth year and 8% raises. And I doubt they make the trade without finding if he's willing to sign the 5 year max.

[baseline bum]

This isn’t the same old spurs team. Free agents will want to play here.

Free agents didn't come when the Spurs won a title and had Duncan, Parker, and Ginobili all 26 and under to match their max cap space, and that was in an era where stars routinely hit free agency.

[Knoxxx]

I don't see the point of giving up our entire war chest for a guy that's going to be a free agent in 12 months. Besides, wouldn't the better sequence be to add a major player with cap space and THEN trade for your last piece using contracts like Keldon Johnson and Zach Collins (plus picks)?

Typically when you acquire a major expiring, there is an agreement already worked out to resign (Siakim). Now if someone actually renegged on such an agreement, not sure where that leaves ya?

[DAF86]

Golden State and OKC

Poeple have already posted reasons on this thread why those two aren't the most likely scenarios.

After spending all that money on the Knicks center, I don't see OKC making another move.

The Warriors would be dumb to give up unprotected FRPs, tbh.

[LeBowen]

Disagree, Golden State could offer him the fifth year and 8% raises. And I doubt they make the trade without finding if he's willing to sign the 5 year max.

But why would he want to join a Warriors team that just gave up all their assets to get him?
Steph is 36, he's got two years left, if that.
Jazz would surely get Kuminga, what then?

No assets left, Steph retiring and a bunch of scrubs on the roster.

It would be solid for the Warriors if they could get him, extend him and then trade him in two years when Steph falls off to get their assets back.
But if I was Markkanen, I'd rather team up with a superstar who fits his timeline better.

[Obstructed_View]

Fucks sake man this shit is TIRED. Stop responding to INDIVIDUALS based on something someone else on a forum may or may not have claimed. People shoudln't have to defend against arguments they never fucking made.


Is there any thread that this fuck doesn't derail? Its so fucking annoying.
Ignore list is a beautiful thing, bro. I'm probably already on yours.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Golden State and OKC

OKC is out. Their book will blow up in 2 years if they get Lauri. Plus, Lauri won't get many touches there. So he won't go.

So, be ready to celebrate, We will get Lauri easily. This just happens at the right time, right person and the right place. Go Spurs Go!

[baseline bum]

But why would he want to join a Warriors team that just gave up all their assets to get him?
Steph is 36, he's got two years left, if that.
Jazz would surely get Kuminga, what then?

No assets left, Steph retiring and a bunch of scrubs on the roster.

It would be solid for the Warriors if they could get him, extend him and then trade him in two years when Steph falls off to get their assets back.
But if I was Markkanen, I'd rather team up with a superstar who fits his timeline better.

Because he can negotiate for that fifth year and 8% raises.

[baseline bum]

Poeple have already posted reasons on this thread why those two aren't the most likely scenarios.

After spending all that money on the Knicks center, I don't see OKC making another move.

The Warriors would be dumb to give up unprotected FRPs, tbh.

They have a team option in year 3 on Hartenstein's deal.

[LeBowen]

Because he can negotiate for that fifth year and 8% raises.

I guess we'll have to see if he's a player who values 8% more than competing for many years.

The best option for him would be to hit FA.

[Knoxxx]

OKC is out. Their book will blow up in 2 years if they get Lauri. Plus, Lauri won't get many touches there. So he won't go.

So, be ready to celebrate, We will get Lauri easily. This just happens at the right time, right person and the right place. Go Spurs Go!

Es posible

[Knoxxx]

I guess we'll have to see if he's a player who values 8% more than competing for many years.

The best option for him would be to hit FA.

This requires me to play our "no state income tax" card. Though Orlando too, can play that card.

[DAF86]

They have a team option in year 3 on Hartenstein's deal.

I know, I still don't see it. Also, somewhere in the near future they won't be able to pay all of SGA, Markkanen, Chet and Williams. Why give up a whole lot of picks in a move that will end up costing you an all-star level player in 2/3 years?

[LeBowen]

This requires me to play our "no state income tax" card. Though Orlando too, can play that card.

Yeah, Woj just reported about state tax difference in Klay's decision.

Orlando has their forwards set.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Disagree, Golden State could offer him the fifth year and 8% raises. And I doubt they make the trade without finding if he's willing to sign the 5 year max.

Warrior will likely not be part of the playoff again in the next 4 to 5 years. Why would Lauri want to play for a losing team? If the reason is nice San Francisco life, then I don't want him. We want winners.

[baseline bum]

I guess we'll have to see if he's a player who values 8% more than competing for many years.

The best option for him would be to hit FA.

He's leaving a lot of money on the table hitting free agency. Of course getting him in free agency is best case but it's a huge risk vs having the bird in hand.

[baseline bum]

I know, I still don't see it. Also, somewhere in the near future they won't be able to pay all of SGA, Markkanen, Chet and Williams. Why give up a whole lot of picks in a move that will end up costing you an all-star level player in 2/3 years?

So they trade one of them for a bunch of picks in 3 years while going all in on a title now.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I know, I still don't see it. Also, somewhere in the near future they won't be able to pay all of SGA, Markkanen, Chet and Williams. Why give up a whole lot of picks in a move that will end up costing you an all-star level player in 2/3 years?
Correct! That's why Lauri and OKC are not mutually attracted to each other. Lauri would want to be the #2 guy, not #3 or #4.

[Atl Spur]

If Laurie doesn’t agree to sign long term, no team will trade a ton of assets for his tail! Ainge has some leverage but not as much as you think. Present your offer and see what happens spurs but don’t play yourselves!!! VW is a major chess piece / influence

[vy65]

He's leaving a lot of money on the table hitting free agency. Of course getting him in free agency is best case but it's a huge risk vs having the bird in hand.

Salary for 41 games would be taxed by California at 12.5%. Someone can do the math, but I think that should take a good chunk out of those 8% raises.

[DAF86]

So they trade one of them for a bunch of picks in 3 years while going all in on a title now.

I guess it could be. If that's the case, then let them have him. I wouldn't get into a bidding war for Markkanen, tbh.

A proposal of filler + 4 FRPs (including Bulls and Hornets) and as many 2nds as they want, is the absolute most I would give for Lauri, tbh.

[Atl Spur]

OKC is out. Their book will blow up in 2 years if they get Lauri. Plus, Lauri won't get many touches there. So he won't go.

So, be ready to celebrate, We will get Lauri easily. This just happens at the right time, right person and the right place. Go Spurs Go!

Best price also considering…….

[scott]

Around 51:40 Lowe and Marks talk about CP3 and Lauri possibly to the Spurs


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KO32Eh3wRyk

Thanks for posting. The Lauri is fit is so fucking obvious.

My concern is that there is so much smoke that there's no way it actually happens.

The discussion about whether the Jazz would require Vassell is interesting. I would probably still do it if I'm the Spurs, though I'd include even more draft capital to keep Vassell, who is an ideal third option with Wemby and Lauri. I'm also not sure that Vassell even makes sense for Utah if they truly want to take... Devin might keep them in that picking 6-10 range when they really should want to completely bottom out.

If Utah rolled out a Collier/George/Cody/Hendricks/Kessler lineup - that is a young and exciting team that keeps fans interested while posting an 18-win season. This is what the Jazz should do, land their #1 in this draft and then they will be LOADED with young talent and a warchest that puts OKC and SA's to shame.

[MannyIsGod]

And we would need to outbid who?

https://x.com/KevinOConnorNBA/status/1807851187049582810

[MannyIsGod]

Ignore list is a beautiful thing, bro. I'm probably already on yours.

I don't have anyone on ignore but you're probably right that I should put him on it. Dude is insufferable.

[Davidicus]

Can he make more $$ re-signing with Utah next year vs the open market? If not, then there's our (and any interested team's) leverage.

I don't think it'd be hard convincing him to stay after playing with Wemby.

[DAF86]

https://x.com/KevinOConnorNBA/status/1807851187049582810

If the Warriors offer more than the Spurs, they are fucked. It would be dumb for them to trade unprotected FRPs with Curry's career coming to an end.

[MannyIsGod]

Warriors just created a fat trade exception with the Klay trade. I also wonder if these moves can all be wrapped into one trade to make them easier to do.

[Mugen]

The Spurs would not be able to outbid Golden State if the Dubs were dead set on Markkanen tbh.

Kuminga and future picks post Steph would be juicy AF.

[MannyIsGod]

If the Warriors offer more than the Spurs, they are fucked. It would be dumb for them to trade unprotected FRPs with Curry's career coming to an end.

I don't disagree but they're about to feel a lot of pressure to make Curry's final years relevant.

[scott]

Re: OKC - I'm not sure they are out, but it would require them taking a different approach to their team, not merely adding Lauri to it. Jalen Williams + 1 FRP for Lauri would be an intriguing proposition for Ainge. I don't know that this would be a smart move for OKC (and I'm just using it as an example) - but we shouldn't view OKC's place in the Lauri race as simply adding more ammo there.

With that said, I do think the OKC is actual out on the Lauri chase... but just saying there is another way to look at it.

[baseline bum]

I know everyone hates the risk of trading good picks for him, but there's a lot of fucking risk sitting on your hands for a year holding cap space open and hoping the guy hits free agency and doesn't care about getting a fifth year. Especially in this era where high end players usually don't hit free agency.

[Darkwaters]

Ignore list is a beautiful thing, bro. I'm probably already on yours.

:lol

[MannyIsGod]

I know everyone hates the risk of trading good picks for him, but there's a lot of fucking risk sitting on your hands for a year holding cap space open and hoping the guy hits free agency and doesn't care about getting a fifth year. Especially in this era where high end players usually don't hit free agency.

People are always going to be scared of pulling the trigger on big deals but at some point in the near future the Spurs are going to do it. I don't know when is the right time or what is the right price but its highly unlikely everyone will be on board when the Spurs actually do it.

[TheChillFactor]

I know everyone hates the risk of trading good picks for him, but there's a lot of fucking risk sitting on your hands for a year holding cap space open and hoping the guy hits free agency and doesn't care about getting a fifth year. Especially in this era where high end players usually don't hit free agency.

agree. this is what the picks are for.

forget just signing someone into cap space unless you are LA/NY/MIA maybe Boston.

[baseline bum]

If the Warriors offer more than the Spurs, they are fucked. It would be dumb for them to trade unprotected FRPs with Curry's career coming to an end.

Might be dumber to let Curry's career draw to a close on a whimper with Kuminga his best teammate. Megastars like Curry are exceedingly rare and once he's gone they're just one of 30 teams again like they were for the entire 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. He's still an amazing player.

[LeBowen]

I know everyone hates the risk of trading good picks for him, but there's a lot of fucking risk sitting on your hands for a year holding cap space open and hoping the guy hits free agency and doesn't care about getting a fifth year. Especially in this era where high end players usually don't hit free agency.

For me the only unacceptable risk would be trading away unprotected picks before we're a playoff team even without Wemby.
If Wemby got injured and we trade away our own '25 od '26 picks, it would be a disaster of monumental proportions.

I'd hope we're a play-in team even without Wemby in '27 and later, so trading away those picks wouldn't be as bad even if we have a bad season for whatever reason.

[objective]

I hope the Spurs don't overpay for Lauri, which would be easy to do in either assets or the contract he eventually would want

He's not a max player, though close, and shouldn't be costing more than a couple of nice firsts and a bunch of seconds considering he's on his last year

[Darkwaters]

Can he make more $$ re-signing with Utah next year vs the open market? If not, then there's our (and any interested team's) leverage.

I don't think it'd be hard convincing him to stay after playing with Wemby.

Sure, his existing team can offer an additional year on his long-term contract that another team could not offer.

Of course, they could potentially also just do a S&T next offseason and get that extra year and send a lot fewer assets away in that trade.

[My Fault]

This isn’t the same old spurs team. Free agents will want to play here. That could avoid emptying the war chest on an expiring contract.
Exactly, especially when dealing with that GM, makes no sense.

[DAF86]

Might be dumber to let Curry's career draw to a close on a whimper with Kuminga his best teammate. Megastars like Curry are exceedingly rare and once he's gone they're just one of 30 teams again like they were for the entire 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. He's still an amazing player.

If the Warriors are in, then there's no reason to sweat it. Nothing will have more value than a Warriors unprotected FRP 3 years from now.

[Ariel]

The Spurs would not be able to outbid Golden State if the Dubs were dead set on Markkanen tbh.

Kuminga and future picks post Steph would be juicy AF.
The Spurs could, but it'd be too costly. This is where Ainge thrives, he tries to create a bidding war and sucks desperate teams dry. If GSW want to go crazy, let them. Spurs will have plenty of opportunities, including for Lauri himself maybe as soon as next offseason.

[Mugen]

Kuminga + 2029 unprotected 1st is a home run if Ainge can swing that tbh.

[Kevin]

I wonder how much including Dev and while taking back John Collin's contract would impact outgoing draft capitol?

Without including Dev and not taking back Collins's contract:

Spurs Get:

Lauri

Jazz Get:
Sochan
Most favorable of the 26 picks.
27 Hawks Pick
Most favorable of 2030 picks
2031 Wolves and Spurs picks unprotected.

Second Deal:

Spurs Get:
Lauri
John Collins contract. 2 years 51M left.

Jazz Get:
Dev
Sochan
2026 and 2027 Hawks pick
2031 Wolves pick.

Dev has the value of one first rounder and taking back Collins also has the value of a one first round pick. Not sure how much value Sochan really has since his jumper still looks broken AF.

[scott]

Shout out to whomever brought this up, but that MIN 30 Swap and 31 FRP could be the real key here - as it would extend Ainge's control over Utah's drafts another two years. That could be huge in negotiating that deal. In which case, I will have to tip my hat and apologize to this FO for my very loud criticism of trading out of #8. That would indeed be some 4d chess shit.

C'mon PAFTO, now's not the time to spoil your adult diapers. Fucking man up, this is what all these picks are for.

[Darkwaters]

Salary for 41 games would be taxed by California at 12.5%. Someone can do the math, but I think that should take a good chunk out of those 8% raises.

Do they only pay state taxes for home games? I would think it would be all 82.

If that's the case, do they pay state income tax for each state they visit when on the road? If that's the case then quite a few of those games are still in California anyways with 4 Western Conference teams in California.

[kobyz]

I wonder how much including Dev and while taking back John Collin's contract would impact outgoing draft capitol?

Without including Dev and not taking back Collins's contract:

Spurs Get:

Lauri

Jazz Get:
Sochan
Most favorable of the 26 picks.
27 Hawks Pick
Most favorable of 2030 picks
2031 Wolves and Spurs picks unprotected.

Second Deal:

Spurs Get:
Lauri
John Collins contract. 2 years 51M left.

Jazz Get:
Dev
Sochan
2026 and 2027 Hawks pick
2031 Wolves pick.

Dev has the value of one first rounder and taking back Collins also has the value of a one first round pick. Not sure how much value Sochan really has since his jumper still looks broken AF.

Why not just sign Laury next off season?

[vy65]

Might be dumber to let Curry's career draw to a close on a whimper with Kuminga his best teammate. Megastars like Curry are exceedingly rare and once he's gone they're just one of 30 teams again like they were for the entire 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. He's still an amazing player.

This is why I'm skeptical of Lauri re-signing there. If Kuminga + Podz + Moody are gone, along with all of their draft capital, Lauri wouldn't stay, regardless of the money.

[Mugen]

I'd go ahead and dispel any notion of Markannen hitting 2025 free agency tbh. It'll be an OG situation where that extension is pretty much verbally agreed to. Any team trading for him would definitely secure that before pulling the trigger, especially given what Ainge will ask for in a trade.

If the Spurs whiff on a Markannen trade this summer, they're not getting him next year tbh.

[vy65]

Do they only pay state taxes for home games? I would think it would be all 82.

If that's the case, do they pay state income tax for each state they visit when on the road? If that's the case then quite a few of those games are still in California anyways with 4 Western Conference teams in California.

I think that's right - so games in Texas and Florida aren't burdened with state income tax.

[Mugen]

Id like a Markkanen deal significantly less if it meant sending out Devin. That doesn't make much sense for either team IMO.

[spurraider21]

im out on Lauri if we are moving Vassell

[rascal]

No

It's going to cost the Atlanta picks. Those picks are going to get the Spurs some good to great players. Be patient until at least after next year.

See what they land in next year's draft and then work to add to that core.

[baseline bum]

I hope the Spurs don't overpay for Lauri, which would be easy to do in either assets or the contract he eventually would want

He's not a max player, though close, and shouldn't be costing more than a couple of nice firsts and a bunch of seconds considering he's on his last year

He's clearly a max player. PG13 just signed a 35% max FA deal and Markannen offers a similar level of production while in his mid 20s instead of mid 30s like George. Whether he's worth more than say the Spurs 26 + Hawks 27 on an expiring I guess is debatable, but I'd expect Utah to get a pretty aggressive offer from Golden State with their own unprotected picks.

[Spurs9]

Ainge will fleece any team trading for him, so its a no from me.

[Seventyniner]

Do they only pay state taxes for home games? I would think it would be all 82.

If that's the case, do they pay state income tax for each state they visit when on the road? If that's the case then quite a few of those games are still in California anyways with 4 Western Conference teams in California.

iirc the tax is based on where the game is played. That means Spurs players will pay CA state income tax on 6/82 or 7/82 of their salary depending on the schedule.

Since the CA teams are all in the same division, players on those teams pay the tax on 47/82 games: 41 home games plus 2 road games at each of the other CA arenas.

I think NY has this too, and maybe IL? Those don't matter so much for West teams.

[vy65]

No

It's going to cost the Atlanta picks. Those picks are going to get the Spurs some good to great players. Be patient until at least after next year.

See what they land in next year's draft and then work to add to that core.

This is such a retarded take. Those picks are going to be late-lottery. And the whole design behind not taking the 8th pick was to accumulate assets for a deal like one for Lauri. This team has to pick a lane, and commit. If they aren't going to build through the draft, and instead be committed to trading for a star, then fucking do it.

[baseline bum]

This is why I'm skeptical of Lauri re-signing there. If Kuminga + Podz + Moody are gone, along with all of their draft capital, Lauri wouldn't stay, regardless of the money.

I think they offer unprotected picks to keep from dealing Kuminga and Podziwhateverthehell and then in three years when shit looks dire Markannen can just force a trade out of town Kawhi style.

[Darkwaters]

No

It's going to cost the Atlanta picks. Those picks are going to get the Spurs some good to great players. Be patient until at least after next year.

See what they land in next year's draft and then work to add to that core.

This. I think this upcoming season is a semi-tank. The Spurs will try to win with what they have, but other than a few modest improvements (namely CP3) they're going to let it ride.

After two full seasons of watching Wemby (now with a legitimate PG all season long) and other young pieces that may have a place (Castle, Sochan, et al) they'll go into a loaded draft with a ton of capital and ready to wheel and deal.

[rascal]

People are always going to be scared of pulling the trigger on big deals but at some point in the near future the Spurs are going to do it. I don't know when is the right time or what is the right price but its highly unlikely everyone will be on board when the Spurs actually do it.

The right time is after next year's draft.

[thOOdee]

I'd only be adamant on keeping the 2025 Atlanta pick if I'm getting Lauri. I think this is a really good offer for him:

* 2026 unprotected Spurs pick with unprotected ATL swap
* 2027 unprotected ATL pick
* 2030 unprotected Spurs pick with top 1 protected swap with Dallas and Minnesota
* 2031 unprotected Minnesota pick
* Keldon Johnson

That's a fucking haul and better than Brooklyn got for Bridges. Plus we keep our 25 thanks to the Stepien rule since I'm guessing Ainge would rather have our 26 with the ATL swap than our 25 when improved Wemby + Lauri could push this team to playoff contention.

If your the spurs you do this. I don't know how other teams will fair down the road, but with a load of teams being tank minded as of late, I have a feeling the market for FA is only going to get hotter. Despite having Wemby, I'm still not sold players are going to be throwing themselves to be on the spurs, but he definitely greases the wheel.

[vy65]

I think they offer unprotected picks to keep from dealing Kuminga and Podziwhateverthehell and then in three years when shit looks dire Markannen can just force a trade out of town Kawhi style.

You need salary going out. If there's no Kuminga, I don't see Ainge doing the deal.

[tesseractive]

Replacing Sochan with Markkanen, yes. Shipping out Vassell? Hell, no.

[LeBowen]

For the sake of discussion, let's go over potential forward targets around the league because Spurs desperately need a high quality forward. Our forward rotation is among the worst in the league.

Celtics and Knicks have their cores set.
Bucks have no good forwards except Giannis.
Magic are building around Wagner and Banchero.
Cavs and Heat have no good forwards.
Pacers and Sixers just signed Siakam and PG.
Chicago just signed Pat Williams.
Hawks have Jalen Johnson and now Risacher, will be interesting to see how they develop.
Nets have Cam Johnson, but he's not on the level required to be Wemby's running mate.
Raptors just gave a big extension to Scottie Barnes.
Hornets have Miller who could be a target because of their inevitable incompetence, but that's at least three years down the road.
Wizards just started their rebuild.
Pistons got another brick-layer in Holland, as if Ausar wasn't enough.

Thunder, Nuggets and Timberwolves have their cores set.
Clippers are imploding, nephew is obviously past it.
Mavs just got PJ Washington.
Suns have ancient KD.
Pelicans are interesting with Trey Murphy and Herb Jones, but neither will be for sale anytime soon.
Lakers are done.
Kings and Warriors are looking for a forward.
Rockets have a bunch of potentially good forwards, none are available.
Jazz have Markkanen.
Grizzlies have Bane who probably won't be available for the foreseeable future.
Trailblazers just started their rebuild.


Correct me if I missed someone, but that's the status of potential forward targets if we talk players with at least elite role player upside and not just regular roster filler.
Other than upcoming drafts, I really don't see the forward situation getting much better over the next few years. Ones that could become available will be too old.

[scott]

Everything but SA25 and ATL25 are on the table.

Utah already has 3 FRP next year anyway (their own, MIN, and CLE).

Here is Utah's warchest (not counting SRPs)

2025: Own, MIN, CLE
2026: Own w/ swap rights from MIN and CLE
2027: Own, CLE, MIN, LAL (Top 4 Protected)
2028: Own w/ swap rights from CLE
2029: Own, CLE, MIN

It seems to me like you can nicely fill in the gaps for Ainge here.

SA26 (with the ATL Swap Rights attached), SA28 (with BOS Swap Rights attached), SA30 (with MIN & DAL swap rights attached) and MIN 31 are probably the most attractive to Ainge. The 30 MIN swap and 31 MIN FRP could be so huge for Ainge. He'd control their draft from now until 2031, with the exception of 2028.

[baseline bum]

If the Warriors are in, then there's no reason to sweat it. Nothing will have more value than a Warriors unprotected FRP 3 years from now.

IDK those ATL picks for 26 and 27 look pretty intriguing, especially with Dybantsa and Boozer coming in 26 and the Hawks being a trainwreck and probably losing Young. Then the 2030 and 2031 give Ainge even more control over Minnesota. Anything goes wrong there and he has them by the balls for years in my suggested trade.

[rascal]

This is such a retarded take. Those picks are going to be late-lottery. And the whole design behind not taking the 8th pick was to accumulate assets for a deal like one for Lauri. This team has to pick a lane, and commit. If they aren't going to build through the draft, and instead be committed to trading for a star, then fucking do it.

Adding Lauri isn't going to get the Spurs into title contention with the current roster anytime soon. When the 25 draft rolls around you'll be happy to land two top ten picks.

Atlanta isn't going to be good next year and the spurs will be also be in the lottery, two shots for top ten picks in a deep draft. Spurs may be adding two players with higher upside than Lauri, then you lay the foundation for a dynasty.

People are getting over excited because the spurs added an over the hill 39 yr old pg.

[vy65]

Everything but SA25 and ATL25 are on the table.

Utah already has 3 FRP next year anyway (their own, MIN, and CLE).

Here is Utah's warchest (not counting SRPs)

2025: Own, MIN, CLE
2026: Own w/ swap rights from MIN and CLE
2027: Own, CLE, MIN, LAL (Top 4 Protected)
2028: Own w/ swap rights from CLE
2029: Own, CLE, MIN

It seems to me like you can nicely fill in the gaps for Ainge here.

SA26 (with the ATL Swap Rights attached), SA28 (with BOS Swap Rights attached), SA30 (with MIN & DAL swap rights attached) and MIN 31 are probably the most attractive to Ainge. The 30 MIN swap and 31 MIN FRP could be so huge for Ainge. He'd control their draft from now until 2031, with the exception of 2028.

Does that beat Kuminga + Podz + unprotected 2026 + unprotected 2028 + top 6 protected 2030 + 2031 swap?

[Kevin]

Id like a Markkanen deal significantly less if it meant sending out Devin. That doesn't make much sense for either team IMO.

I agree completely. Sochan still makes sense for both teams as would taking back Collin's contract.

Spurs Get:
Lauri
Collin's contract 2/51M

Jazz Get:
Sochan and Graham
26 and 27 Hawks picks
2031 Wolves and Spurs pick.

[Atl Spur]

People forget we rarely lose trades…… I’m not worried we are going to be fleeced. We are not desperate

[DAF86]

Ainge will fleece any team trading for him, so its a no from me.

This narrative is so fucking dumb. Who is Ainge, a fucking mind controlling Jedi master? :lol

Just go into any negotation with an already established max that you are willing to pay and anything over that is no go. It's really not that difficult, tbh. :lol

[vy65]

Adding Lauri isn't going to get the Spurs into title contention with the current roster anytime soon. When the 25 draft rolls around you'll be happy to land two top ten picks.

Atlanta isn't going to be good next year and the spurs will be also be in the lottery, two shots for top ten picks in a deep draft. Spurs may be adding two players with higher upside than Lauri, then you lay the foundation for a dynasty.

Detroit, Washington, Portland, Chicago, Toronto, Utah, and Brooklyn are all easily worse than Atlanta. You could put SA, GSW, LAC, Charlotte, Atlanta and maybe Miami (depending on what happens with Jimmy) all in the same tier. Even with flattened odds, there's a good chance that Atlanta pick is in the 11-14 range - not the 6-10 as many are assuming. Atlanta not being good isn't the question - it's who will be worse then them.

[baseline bum]

You need salary going out. If there's no Kuminga, I don't see Ainge doing the deal.

I would expect the outgoing salary to be Wiggins. Doubt Utah would value Kuminga over an extra unprotected GSW pick.

[DAF86]

IDK those ATL picks for 26 and 27 look pretty intriguing, especially with Dybantsa and Boozer coming in 26 and the Hawks being a trainwreck and probably losing Young. Then the 2030 and 2031 give Ainge even more control over Minnesota. Anything goes wrong there and he has them by the balls for years in my suggested trade.

I wouldn't give up any swap, tbh. The Spurs have enough draft capital to not have to go through a year without a first round pick.

[Chinook]

The Warriors have a vanishingly small window. They can't afford to leverage their roster too badly. I'm not sure Utah has much of a chance of snagging GS's depth players.

[scott]

Does that beat Kuminga + Podz + unprotected 2026 + unprotected 2028 + top 6 protected 2030 + 2031 swap?

Probably not... though if I'm Ainge I'm not sure I want Kuminga, he (slightly) raises the floor when they probably just want to bottom out. Rather than Kuminga (or Vassell for that matter), Ainge *should* want to get the highest pick possible in the next two drafts to find his superstars, and then use that warchest to build around them (much like the Spurs should be doing now that they landed Wemby).

The MIN angle I think is the best thing we have working for us. With that, Ainge extends his death grip on MIN's balls even deeper. As Gobert ages and KAT maybe starts to fall off... it would make Utah the natural destination to deal Ant if they need to reset (which I don't think will happen... but this is the Houston/Brooklyn - Brooklyn/Phoenix strategy which appears to be paying dividends for those teams).

[baseline bum]

I wouldn't give up any swap, tbh. The Spurs have enough draft capital to not have to go through a year without a first round pick.

If I'm Ainge and I don't get the 26 and 30 unprotected I'm probably trading with GSW. Those are the whole reason the Spurs could beat the Warriors offer.

[poopbox]

Markkenen is like a Gabe Vincent or other shooter who should not be valued too much. Again, for a couple off-brand picks, okay.

You consistently have some of the worst basketball takes I have ever seen on the internet :lol

[LeBowen]

The Warriors have a vanishingly small window. They can't afford to leverage their roster too badly. I'm not sure Utah has much of a chance of snagging GS's depth players.

The window is long gone.
They can prolong Steph's career with Markkanen and be a first, maybe second round exit, but even that is an optimistic scenario.

They blow the load on Markkanen, then what?
They'd try to trade Wiggins for some useful role players, but noone is taking his contract without positive assets attached.

They're fuckied and can only dig themselves deeper at this point, tbh.

[vy65]

I would expect the outgoing salary to be Wiggins. Doubt Utah would value Kuminga over an extra unprotected GSW pick.

Yeah I just don't see why Lauri hitches his wagon up to Podz + Kuminga vs. Wemby, particularly if GSW throws its future out to get him. 47 of the 82 games he'll play will be taxed at 12.5%, so I don't see his deal being more lucrative.

[DAF86]

If I'm Ainge and I don't get the 26 and 30 unprotected I'm probably trading with GSW. Those are the whole reason the Spurs could beat the Warriors offer.

Well, then let him trade with the Warriors.

[scott]

I wouldn't give up any swap, tbh. The Spurs have enough draft capital to not have to go through a year without a first round pick.

Unfortunately what works best for Utah to add in draft capital is 26 and 28, when the Spurs only have one pick. We could probably do draft day moves off surplus picks in 25 and 27 to get a pick in 26 and 28 though if we had to though.

The more I work through this and look at Utah's pick chest, the more I think our more attractive picks to Ainge are SA26, SA28, SA30, MIN31

[Kevin]

Probably not... though if I'm Ainge I'm not sure I want Kuminga, he (slightly) raises the floor when they probably just want to bottom out. Rather than Kuminga (or Vassell for that matter), Ainge *should* want to get the highest pick possible in the next two drafts to find his superstars, and then use that warchest to build around them (much like the Spurs should be doing now that they landed Wemby).

The MIN angle I think is the best thing we have working for us. With that, Ainge extends his death grip on MIN's balls even deeper. As Gobert ages and KAT maybe starts to fall off... it would make Utah the natural destination to deal Ant if they need to reset (which I don't think will happen... but this is the Houston/Brooklyn - Brooklyn/Phoenix strategy which appears to be paying dividends for those teams).

Hard to beat the Hawks and Wolves picks while taking a flyer on Sochan and maybe getting out of John Collin's deal. Its almost impossible to beat if the Jazz are looking to tank for future superstars via draft.

[timvp]

Giving Lauri a max contract has to be baked into any conversation of acquiring him.

IMO, he's not the right player to get all-in for pick-wise. It's close because he's an awesome offensive player but I'm not sure his defense is good enough to build around as a second star. He can get targeted -- and could become a liability once he's ~30.

I want to keep ATL25, ATL26SWAP, SA25 and SA26. I'd probably be on board if the major assets given up are ATL27, MINDAL30SWAP and MIN31. That's still a lot though because Atlanta could be even worse, that Minnesota/Dallas swap has a really good chance of being a lottery pick and MIN31 could also be damn good.

I'd include Sochan in a trade for Lauri if Ainge values him as a first round pick. He'd lose most of his use here. Vassell would need to be valued as two first round picks before I'd even think about it. In total, Lauri probably will cost the equivalent of four or five good first round picks.

The cheapest way to get Lauri would be to give ATL back their picks, have ATL find a team desperate for Trae Young and then have those assets shipped to the Jazz along with Zach Collins.

[baseline bum]

Does that beat Kuminga + Podz + unprotected 2026 + unprotected 2028 + top 6 protected 2030 + 2031 swap?

I don't think GSW guts their roster like that and I don't think Ainge lets them protect 2030.

[Arguendo]

Do they only pay state taxes for home games? I would think it would be all 82.

If that's the case, do they pay state income tax for each state they visit when on the road? If that's the case then quite a few of those games are still in California anyways with 4 Western Conference teams in California.

yeah you pay taxes on where it is earned, ie where the games are played. So a Tx team vs a Cal team is a 6.5+% pay increase (45 games in TX vs 47 games in Cali)

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I hope the Spurs don't overpay for Lauri, which would be easy to do in either assets or the contract he eventually would want

He's not a max player, though close, and shouldn't be costing more than a couple of nice firsts and a bunch of seconds considering he's on his last year

You have to max him in order to get him. And he deserves the max too.

[Chinook]

The Collins part doesn't have legs. The Spurs can't afford to take him.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I think they offer unprotected picks to keep from dealing Kuminga and Podziwhateverthehell and then in three years when shit looks dire Markannen can just force a trade out of town Kawhi style.

I agree. The warriors will be willing to offer their FRPs in order to keep their championship open.

[DAF86]

Giving Lauri a max contract has to be baked into any conversation of acquiring him.

IMO, he's not the right player to get all-in for pick-wise. It's close because he's an awesome offensive player but I'm not sure his defense is good enough to build around as a second star. He can get targeted -- and could become a liability once he's ~30.

I want to keep ATL25, ATL26SWAP, SA25 and SA26. I'd probably be on board if the major assets given up are ATL27, MINDAL30SWAP and MIN31. That's still a lot though because Atlanta could be even worse, that Minnesota/Dallas swap has a really good chance of being a lottery pick and MIN31 could also be damn good.

I'd include Sochan in a trade for Lauri if Ainge values him as a first round pick. He'd lose most of his use here. Vassell would need to be valued as two first round picks before I'd even think about it. In total, Lauri probably will cost the equivalent of four or five good first round picks.

The cheapest way to get Lauri would be to give ATL back their picks, have ATL find a team desperate for Trae Young and then have those assets shipped to the Jazz along with Zach Collins.

Lauri is worth acquiring but for the right price. No swaps, no picks that leave us without a FRP in a given year and no Vassell. If that's not enough, then so be it. I really doubt the Jazz would be able to get a lot more than what the Spurs can give them, unless the Warriors decide to fuck their entire next decade over in exchange of a farewell to Curry.

[DPG21920]

Let him pilfer golden state then

[vy65]

I don't think GSW guts their roster like that and I don't think Ainge lets them protect 2030.

Yeah, then I don't understand what GSW's offer is? 3 unprotected 1sts + 2 unprotected swaps and Wiggins? Why would GSW do that trade and commit to a future core of Lauri/Podz/Kuminga with no draft future. Once Klay and Draymond are gone, wouldn't GSW's talent level be the same as Utah's, only without any of the draft capital at all. That would set that franchise back years.

[baseline bum]

Yeah I just don't see why Lauri hitches his wagon up to Podz + Kuminga vs. Wemby, particularly if GSW throws its future out to get him. 47 of the 82 games he'll play will be taxed at 12.5%, so I don't see his deal being more lucrative.

Maybe so, but that fifth year might offset that. I wouldn't be very confident getting him in free agency.

[Obstructed_View]

I don't get why you guys love Devin Vassell so much.

[DAF86]

I don't get why you guys love Devin Vassell so much.

He's a third option on a nice contract. Also, he's still getting better.

[DPG21920]

I don't get why you guys love Devin Vassell so much.

You think Keldon is a negative and don’t value dev much. I think you’re way off on spurs players tbh

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Here is the process:

Both warriors and Spurs will offer Lauri the max extension. Both will promise to use him as their #2 guy.

Then Lauri will decide: which team will be better in the next 4 to 5 years? Spurs or warriors?

Once Lauri answers this question, he will simply tell the other team that he will not extend with them. This will be Warriors.

Then warriors will withdraw their offer to Ainge. Then spurs will easily get Lauri with 3 FRPS. I'll throw in 4 just to be conservative.

This is just like the Siakam deal. One he figures that Indiana will be a better team, Warriors is out.

Cheers guys! he is coming!

[Spurs9]

You can get better value trading those picks mid season for a star who wants to get out of his team. Getting Lauri here would be paying too high.

[Kevin]

If Bridges get four first rounders Lauri gets at least that much if not five first rounders. You don't get him for only three firsts unless you include Dev and take back John Collins.

[DPG21920]

Chi pick taking a hit with DeRozan and Caruso gone unfortunately

[LeBowen]

I don't get why you guys love Devin Vassell so much.

I'm kind of torn on him.
This season I was really annoyed with him in a lot of games where he was so passive and allowed inferior players like Jeremy and Keldon to impose themselves and chuck out out of games.
But as a third option he makes sense, especially given his contract.

$141M-154M-170M-187M-205M are the future cap projections.
Devin is going to be on $27M a year during those seasons.

16%-14%-13% of the cap in final three seasons of that deal.

Even if he doesn't improve much, that would be amazing value for an efficent 20ppg scorer who doesn't need the ball and is a solid enough defender.
Quickley got 175/5 the other day.
The most important thing in the upcoming seasons will be to have players on team-friendly deals.

[baseline bum]

Yeah, then I don't understand what GSW's offer is? 3 unprotected 1sts + 2 unprotected swaps and Wiggins? Why would GSW do that trade and commit to a future core of Lauri/Podz/Kuminga with no draft future. Once Klay and Draymond are gone, wouldn't GSW's talent level be the same as Utah's, only without any of the draft capital at all. That would set that franchise back years.

Putting myself in their shoes, the thinking is mortgaging the future for the present because it's highly unlikely they'll land another Curry in the next say 20 years and this is their shot to win one more while he's still an elite player. It'll cost a lot but not everyone can be the Spurs having Robinson, Duncan, and Wembanyama land in their laps on pure luck.

[scott]

As badly as I want Lauri here, I do agree that if GSW is going to seppuku themselves to get him then we should just step aside.

I'll be the first on this site to stand on the table and advocate for a highly aggressive move to get Lauri... but we shouldn't commit suicide. Among the very few things I trust this FO to do... not going way overboard is one of them.

By overboard, here is an example of a deal I WOULD NOT do:

Vassell
SA26
SA28
SA30
MIN31

Here are variations of that deal I *would* do:

Vassell
SA30
MIN31

or

SA26
SA28
SA30
MIN31
With Keldon or Collins as the salary matching (preferably Collins. He's a negative asset, but maybe not for Utah. He's a good tank commander and helps get to the salary floor for them).

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I desperately want Lauri. But, if 4 FRPS are not enough. I'll simply wait for Naz Reid next summer and throw him max offer.

[baseline bum]

If Bridges get four first rounders Lauri gets at least that much if not five first rounders. You don't get him for only three firsts unless you include Dev and take back John Collins.

The Spurs have better first rounders to offer Utah than New York was able to offer Brookyln.

[LeBowen]

As badly as I want Lauri here, I do agree that if GSW is going to seppuku themselves to get him then we should just step aside.

I'll be the first on this site to stand on the table and advocate for a highly aggressive move to get Lauri... but we shouldn't commit suicide. Among the very few things I trust this FO to do... not going way overboard is one of them.

By overboard, here is an example of a deal I WOULD NOT do:

Vassell
SA26
SA28
SA30
MIN31

Here are variations of that deal I *would* do:

Vassell
SA30
MIN31

or

SA26
SA28
SA30
MIN31
With Keldon or Collins as the salary matching (preferably Collins. He's a negative asset, but maybe not for Utah. He's a good tank commander and helps get to the salary floor for them).

You made a good post with all of their assets.

What about effectively trading down?
As in giving them Hawks picks, but getting Cavs picks they own in return.
Obviously we'd have to give up more than we get, but still.

I think those two Minnesota picks are the first thing teams would agree on in a trade. It just makes too much sense for the Jazz, as already mentioned.

[baseline bum]

Chi pick taking a hit with DeRozan and Caruso gone unfortunately

Shit

[Manu&Duncan fan]

If Bridges get four first rounders Lauri gets at least that much if not five first rounders. You don't get him for only three firsts unless you include Dev and take back John Collins.

The situation is different. Nets had no desire to trade Bridges. So Knicks had to overpay.

Utah desperately wants to trade Lauri now so they can tank freely.

Plus, Bridges has two more years of team-friendly contract left.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Putting myself in their shoes, the thinking is mortgaging the future for the present because it's highly unlikely they'll land another Curry in the next say 20 years and this is their shot to win one more while he's still an elite player. It'll cost a lot but not everyone can be the Spurs having Robinson, Duncan, and Wembanyama land in their laps on pure luck.

Totally agree with you on this. Warrior is ready to throw 3 to 4 unprotected FRPs to Utah.

Unfortunately for them, it's up to Lauri to decide. :)

[poopbox]

Yeah, Lauri would be damn expensive. The Spurs would lose much of their war chest. I think baseline bum (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=131) is on the right track regarding what it'd take.

I mean you can make the case that Lauri is the exact type of player the war chest is for TBH.

23 and 8 on almost 50 40 90 splitts. Who other type of player would you be trying to cash your picks in for over Lauri.

I'm not even a fan of Lauri but it's highly likely the Spurs will ever be able to get a player as good as him with the picks they have, mostly because star players rarely become available.

[scott]

Re: Devin....

I like Vassell a lot more on a team with Wemby and Lauri, especially one with CP3 running point and teaching Steph Castle. My frustration with Devin last year was that he was playing like was the alpha on this team, when clearly that was Wemby. I'm willing to let that slide in Wemby's rookie year and I feel like certainly Devin by now realizes who's team this is. A huge deal for Lauri should also make it pretty clear to him where falls in the pecking order. CP3 will help keep that natural order of things as well.

Vassell is a reaaaaally nice piece next to Wemby and Lauri. I like that 3-headed monster a lot, and you still have a prospect in Castle on the team with hopefully at least one more high end rookie coming in next year.

If you acquire Lauri here, the expectation MUST be playoffs, in which case the SA pick is in the late teens or 20s. Atlanta can be late lotto or better. You can move off that SA25 pick for a pick in 2026 to still have the talent pipeline flowing.

The stars couldn't align more perfectly on this. The picks that fit Utah's war chest best are in even numbered years... those are the years when all of SA's picks have swaps attached, which give them unique upside that a Spurs pick alone would not have if they were going to be a playoff team. Having those MIN picks uniquely fits in with Utah because of their assets from the Gobert trade. It's almost like it was designed this way. If we pull this off... then we owe PAFTO and Wright a huge apology.

[DPG21920]

I don’t even want Lauri if Dev is involved. Sochan I sort of get but not Dev

[Obstructed_View]

He's a third option on a nice contract. Also, he's still getting better.
He regressed last year. He didn't pass to Victor, his defense fell off a cliff, and he wasn't consistent. He shows flashes, but he's too old to be showing flashes IMO.

You think Keldon is a negative and don’t value dev much. I think you’re way off on spurs players tbh
Neither of them is developing to the point that they're indispensable. The clock is ticking. I hold out some hope, but nobody on the team made any sort of leap last year.


I'm kind of torn on him.
This season I was really annoyed with him in a lot of games where he was so passive and allowed inferior players like Jeremy and Keldon to impose themselves and chuck out out of games.
But as a third option he makes sense, especially given his contract.

$141M-154M-170M-187M-205M are the future cap projections.
Devin is going to be on $27M a year during those seasons.

16%-14%-13% of the cap in final three seasons of that deal.

Even if he doesn't improve much, that would be amazing value for an efficent 20ppg scorer who doesn't need the ball and is a solid enough defender.
Quickley got 175/5 the other day.
The most important thing in the upcoming seasons will be to have players on team-friendly deals.
He and Keldon both have decent contracts. If they could play better team ball with Victor and show some commitment to defense those contracts would look even better.

[spurraider21]

This narrative is so fucking dumb. Who is Ainge, a fucking mind controlling Jedi master? :lol

Just go into any negotation with an already established max that you are willing to pay and anything over that is no go. It's really not that difficult, tbh. :lol
the better way to put it is Ainge is very difficult to deal with. if he doesnt get a lopsided trade in his favor, he walks

[Mugen]

Lauri could make life a lot easier for San Antonio if he told Ainge & the Dubs he's not re-signing there tbh :lol

[objective]

The reason a Max contract for Lauri via an expensive trade pick wise is a bad idea is that while he scores he's not a primary.

And once you have him that's pretty much it for your roster, you'll be paying him $50 million and he's not even on the ball.

This team has no sure thing point guard of the future and a 39 year old Paul. If Castle fails at it, there won't be picks to try and get a primary creator in the draft, and they won't have the money to sign one.

On top of all that, no one knows for sure that he would be a good fit with Wemby. Everyone was certain Zollins was a great fit, so sure they paid him too soon. Lauri has been unsuccessful other places in his career, he's been expendable, and he had his bout with health issues.

If they pay the max and the farm in assets it's paying double for a guy who has underwhelmed before.

I've killed their drafting and advocated trading the picks for that reason, I just feel like Lauri as that guy ...

No thanks. If he had 2-3 years left, sure. But don't pay max assets and max money like an idiot. Don't overstep like with Zollins

[Knoxxx]

Vassell is a good contract we could include. Can Jazz S&T Lauri?

[tesseractive]

the better way to put it is Ainge is very difficult to deal with. if he doesnt get a lopsided trade in his favor, he walks
If he'd rather take a shittier offer from someone else or let Markkanen walk next year to someplace that won't be tanking, he's welcome to do it. He's under a certain amount of pressure to make the deal.

[Uriel]

Too expensive. No thanks. There were will be other, better opportunities in the future.

[Uriel]

Also, I still remember the days when John Collins was our dream target in free agency and Lauri Markannen was seen as a Plan B. Good times. :lol

[Knoxxx]

Spurs may indicate that they will like to try and beat Jazz best offer.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Lauri could make life a lot easier for San Antonio if he told Ainge & the Dubs he's not re-signing there tbh :lol

He will if Spurs offer him Max extension and use him as #2 guy. Ainge is shrew guy. But there is not much he can do. he can maybe drag this to February and get less value.

[Dejounte]

Woj…shams… throw us another bone pls

[Dejounte]

Too expensive. No thanks. There were will be other, better opportunities in the future.

In order for one to predict the future, one can look to the past.

Tell me, which players have been seen as great opportunities in the last 5-10 years for a team to trade for? Anthony Davis might be the only one but he only wanted to go to LA.

[Kevin]

People like to site the Siakam deal for the three first rounders as the price but as noted in other threads Lauri is almost exactly three years younger than Siakam and that should warrant one more pick.

Also the 2026 Atlanta pick could carry the weight of two picks since its in the near future and has a good chance at being a good pick.

Maybe 2026 ATL pick which counts as two picks as for reason already stated, most favorable of the 2030 swaps and the 2031 Minny pick.

[spurraider21]

siakam was a proven #2 on a championship team who also provides high end, versatile defense

[z0sa]

Re: Devin....

I like Vassell a lot more on a team with Wemby and Lauri, especially one with CP3 running point and teaching Steph Castle. My frustration with Devin last year was that he was playing like was the alpha on this team, when clearly that was Wemby. I'm willing to let that slide in Wemby's rookie year and I feel like certainly Devin by now realizes who's team this is. A huge deal for Lauri should also make it pretty clear to him where falls in the pecking order. CP3 will help keep that natural order of things as well.

Vassell is a reaaaaally nice piece next to Wemby and Lauri. I like that 3-headed monster a lot, and you still have a prospect in Castle on the team with hopefully at least one more high end rookie coming in next year.

If you acquire Lauri here, the expectation MUST be playoffs, in which case the SA pick is in the late teens or 20s. Atlanta can be late lotto or better. You can move off that SA25 pick for a pick in 2026 to still have the talent pipeline flowing.

The stars couldn't align more perfectly on this. The picks that fit Utah's war chest best are in even numbered years... those are the years when all of SA's picks have swaps attached, which give them unique upside that a Spurs pick alone would not have if they were going to be a playoff team. Having those MIN picks uniquely fits in with Utah because of their assets from the Gobert trade. It's almost like it was designed this way. If we pull this off... then we owe PAFTO and Wright a huge apology.

Yes indeed. Vassell will be the best THIRD option in the League, with the capability (when he's getting fed easy shots as a secondary creator) to blow up any given game for 35 on 7 made 3s or the like. Vassell's 100% a keeper - as a 2B (AKA third) type option. Someone who some nights can absolutely be the next guy after Wemby getting his when he's super on., but isn't the primary guy opposing coaches are gameplanning for (which is where he will excel).

[z0sa]

double

[Kevin]

siakam was a proven #2 on a championship team who also provides high end, versatile defense

You're not wrong about that but if they really want the winning bid on Lauri they'll have to surrender equivalent value of four first rounders. 26 Hawks pick counts as two picks. You could argue that the 2030 swaps might have equal value of two picks as well especially with the Minny pick in the mix.

[MannyIsGod]

I don’t even want Lauri if Dev is involved. Sochan I sort of get but not Dev

I agree with this. Whats even the point of that for the Spurs.

[stnick2261]

Giving Lauri a max contract has to be baked into any conversation of acquiring him.

IMO, he's not the right player to get all-in for pick-wise. It's close because he's an awesome offensive player but I'm not sure his defense is good enough to build around as a second star. He can get targeted -- and could become a liability once he's ~30.

I want to keep ATL25, ATL26SWAP, SA25 and SA26. I'd probably be on board if the major assets given up are ATL27, MINDAL30SWAP and MIN31. That's still a lot though because Atlanta could be even worse, that Minnesota/Dallas swap has a really good chance of being a lottery pick and MIN31 could also be damn good.

I'd include Sochan in a trade for Lauri if Ainge values him as a first round pick. He'd lose most of his use here. Vassell would need to be valued as two first round picks before I'd even think about it. In total, Lauri probably will cost the equivalent of four or five good first round picks.

The cheapest way to get Lauri would be to give ATL back their picks, have ATL find a team desperate for Trae Young and then have those assets shipped to the Jazz along with Zach Collins.

I really wouldn’t want to give up any unprotected picks if we’d be a Wemby-Injury away from a top pick. I also wouldn’t want our picks being tied up for multiple years if it doesn’t convey. What if we did something structured like the Boston swap?

2027 first round pick (top 4 protected). If it doesn’t convey, it turns into 2027 & 2028 seconds.
Do the same for 2029 first round (top 4 protected) / 2029 & 2030 seconds
and again 2031 first round (top 4 protected) / 2031 & 2032 seconds

I put more value on keeping other team’s unprotected picks because I’d be hoping we are the better team by then.
He’s who I wanted to target in 2025 free agency (after a good draft pick, but how much would he actually cost? As I understand, if Utah renegotiates so they can extend at a higher cost, they won’t be able to trade him before next summer anyway. If we trade now, we run the risk of losing him (even if we have his guarantee, that risk should drop his price). If they sign a trade next summer, how many picks would we give instead of outright signing him?

[kobyz]

People like to site the Siakam deal for the three first rounders as the price but as noted in other threads Lauri is almost exactly three years younger than Siakam and that should warrant one more pick.

Also the 2026 Atlanta pick could carry the weight of two picks since its in the near future and has a good chance at being a good pick.

Maybe 2026 ATL pick which counts as two picks as for reason already stated, most favorable of the 2030 swaps and the 2031 Minny pick.

Lauri should cost much less than Siakam as Spurs not in rush to get better and has cap space to sign Lauri straight up next off season and Lauri and Utah know that

[kobyz]

Don't offer much, let desperate Warriors trade for him and just sign Lauri straight up next summer, he obviously will choose Spurs over re signing with them...

[Kevin]

Lauri should cost much less than Siakam as Spurs not in rush to get better and has cap space to sign Lauri straight up next off season and Lauri and Utah know that

Sounds like Lauri is getting dealt and presumably any team that gets him will have a verbal agreement in place for a deal next summer. Either the Spurs get him now or probably never.

First Trae Young wasn't worth it and now Lauri isn't worth it. By this years trade deadline another young star will be probably be available and they wont be worth it either.

The Spurs aren't getting Luka/Giannis and those leftover fantasies are a big reason why people are so stingy about other star players.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

Lauri should cost much less than Siakam as Spurs not in rush to get better and has cap space to sign Lauri straight up next off season and Lauri and Utah know that

You got it! But we have to overbid just in case. Lauri is someone you have to get. PLus, we have so many FRPs anyway. Utah is just lucky.

[Ariel]

In order for one to predict the future, one can look to the past.

Tell me, which players have been seen as great opportunities in the last 5-10 years for a team to trade for? Anthony Davis might be the only one but he only wanted to go to LA.
Not great, but very good cost effective trades that affected contenders the past couple of years include Aaron Gordon, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday to Boston, Kristaps Portzingis to Boston, Kyrie Irving to Dallas, Siakam,
I'd say the evidence for big trades significantly favors the selling team. Rarely do you see a big trade that truly reaps great rewards, exceptions might be Jrue to Milwaukee and, perhaps, Anthony Davis to Lakers. But most end up very bad (Durant to Phoenix, Harden to Nets, PG13 to Clippers, Lillard to Milwaukee, Vucevic to Chicago, Westbrook to Lakers, etc). Can go both ways, but usually the buyers convince themselves everything will go perfect to justify the price, and that's rarely the case.

[T Park]

I have to say, I like The Finn better than SpursTalk's usual obsessions with bad expensive players. But talk about throwing all these picks and players at him is wild. You realize he's on an expiring, right? And doesn't have much of a market? If you're so very much in love, just wait until next year and sign him outright. Sheesh, giving up unprotected picks next year. Totally insane.


Give up the Atlanta 27, Chicago pick, and a couple of your own in 28 and 30. Throw In Keldon or Collins to match salaries

[Pauleta14]

lots of competition...

https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1807888329972633860

[z0sa]

CP3/Castle/Vassell/Lauri/Wemby with Tre, Keldon (or filler), Julian, Wesley and Lopez (or I guess, even Collins or filler) competes for the WC in its first year. They are likely 2nd round fodder with a limited ceiling in reality, but they would definitely add at least 30 wins (52 win season minimum) - calling it.

This assumes CP3 and Lauri play a minimum of 60 games each, respectively. The only questions holding the Spurs back would be 1) can Lauri play 60-65 games a year, including 95% of playoff games, to truly earn a max salary and 2) is Lauri a good enough defender to avoid being worse than neutral come playoff time, especially at the end of his max deal and into his next contract? I'd roll on the dice on both. Wemby isn't going anywhere if we earn his loyalty by making the Spurs a legit playoff team and Finals dark horse in his second year and putting talent around him. We'll rebuild if Lauri drops off in 3-5 years, and maybe have a ring to show for it as well, which would obviously be worth.

I say fucking pull the trigger, even overpay slightly, if we have a verbal agreement with Lauri to stay.

[Dejounte]

Not great, but very good cost effective trades that affected contenders the past couple of years include Aaron Gordon, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday to Boston, Kristaps Portzingis to Boston, Kyrie Irving to Dallas, Siakam,
I'd say the evidence for big trades significantly favors the selling team. Rarely do you see a big trade that truly reaps great rewards, exceptions might be Jrue to Milwaukee and, perhaps, Anthony Davis to Lakers. But most end up very bad (Durant to Phoenix, Harden to Nets, PG13 to Clippers, Lillard to Milwaukee, Vucevic to Chicago, etc). Can go both ways, but usually the buyers convince themselves everything will go perfect to justify the price, and that's rarely the case.

Yeah so Lauri is definitely in the same stratosphere as those first group of guys you listed: Gordon, White, etc.

To me, it doesn’t matter who wins the trade but moreso if either team benefits. A team searching for its #2 has to find it somehow and the players you listed shows there’s no sense in waiting for the “next opportunity” to pop up (as Uriel suggested) since there is rarely the perfect player that becomes available.

[Pauleta14]

Not sure he's worth the price he'll cost now that so many teams want him.

Not with Ainge

[CGD]

lots of competition...

https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1807888329972633860

Yeah, Spurs don’t need to play that foolish game. Stay away.

[Ariel]

Minnesota has no picks, what do they offer that Utah wants? Naz Reid? They're not going to move Jaden McDaniels.
As for Sacramento, again, what do they offer? Keegan Murray, Devin Carter and underwhelming picks? DeAaron Fox isn't going anywhere.
Honestly this feels more like Ainge trying to build momentum. Don't bite, be smart like Leon Rose.

[Mugen]

lots of competition...

https://x.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1807888329972633860

https://media.tenor.com/z0X6U7McZPcAAAAM/bye-im-out.gif

[vy65]

Yeah, Spurs don’t need to play that foolish game. Stay away.

This is why that Dilly trade was so fucking stupid. Do you think that there isn't going to be competition for a major piece requiring draft assets? Multiple teams making offers is the name of the game.

[CGD]

Minnesota has no picks, what do they offer that Utah wants? Naz Reid? They're not going to move Jaden McDaniels.
As for Sacramento, again, what do they offer? Keegan Murray, Devin Carter and underwhelming picks? DeAaron Fox isn't going anywhere.
Honestly this feels more like Ainge trying to build momentum. Don't bite, be smart like Leon Rose.

I wonder is MIN is stealth shopping KAT. That would be an interesting swap.

[Dejounte]

The Wolves have nothing to offer. Sacramento maybe? This shit is ours. Let’s go, Brian.

[CGD]

This is why that Dilly trade was so fucking stupid. Do you think that there isn't going to be competition for a major piece requiring draft assets? Multiple teams making offers is the name of the game.

Yeah, I don’t think it’s the asset thing. I just don’t want Lauri.

[Ice009]

No thanks. I don't think he's the guy I'd be willing to go all-in on.

[sfernald]

Lol:

Deandre Ayton
Trae Young
John Collins
Ben Simmons
Tobias Harris

These are THE players this forum has WORSHIPPED over the years, DEMANDING this FO sign them, or give up huge piles to get them. Don't you think that's pretty fucked up? Like... don't you think, maybe, maybe, maybe your desperation to get Lauri Markkanen is following the same chain?

That aside, just, if you need to pay huge money to a somewhat fit, go play EA Sports. It's wild how desperate you guys are to spend obscenely. If we can get him for what he's worth on an expiring - a couple picks at most - then fine. This shit about running up the tab is ridiculous.

But I think y'all just need to entertain yourself with this stuff. Being serious isn't part of the game.

Dude 4 unprotected picks. A couple pick swaps, Sohan, Branham, Wesley. That’s nothing to give up for the Finnish Finisher!

[Ariel]

I wonder is MIN is stealth shopping KAT. That would be an interesting swap.
KAT would be seen as a negative by Utah, that's why I didn't even bring him up. They're trying to go younger, not older and expensive.

[scott]

TBH the Front Office probably isn't even working on this. The reports that we are interested is probably just speculation based on the fact that all the pieces are there and this is the most perfect fit imaginable that any dunce can imagine it.

[Ariel]

Next thing you know, Minnesota lands Markkanen for a package centered around Dillingham... and I'll be rolling on the floor laughing my ass off.

[LeBowen]

The Wolves have nothing to offer. Sacramento maybe? This shit is ours. Let’s go, Brian.

Exactly.
Idk why fans get so caught up in these X team wants Y playe reports.
No shit, every team would want Markkanen for a reasonable price.

McDaniels is a clearly inferior player, Timberwolves have nothing else to offer.
Ainge already bent them over once, it's our turn. :lol

[spurraider21]

wolves entered trade talks forgetting that they dont have their 2031 pick

either that or theyre moving off towns

[vy65]

Jake Fischer JakeLFischer
We do not expect Lauri Markkanen to be traded, but that has not stopped multiple teams — including Golden State — from calling Utah, sources said. And the Jazz have held tangible discussions on the All-Star forward.