Phoenix Suns expect to part ways with Kevin Durant this offseason. Could the Spurs be a good landing place?

[kht]

https://www.nbcsports.com/nba/news/rumor-expect-kevin-durant-suns-to-part-ways-this-summer-via-trade

Kevin Durant wants to win a ring to prove he could win one without Steph Curry and Warriors. The Spurs would be an ideal place because the Spurs haven't even made the playoffs in recent memory if he wants to prove something to fans.

For the Spurs, they've indicated that they are ready to compete now, making the acquisition for Fox. Fox/Wemby/Castle/KD + (not sure who's left after trading for KD) is a filthy start for a starting lineup.

I'm thinking the worse our own pick / Atlanta and Devin Vassell/Keldon Johnson gotta be starting material for a potential package.

[CorrectCrusader]

Because of his age, isn't he only able to sign 1 year deals now? I'd be fine with giving him the max 1 year deal.

[Knoxxx]

Yeah seems like getting him for free other than the $ on a one year is a no brainer,
possible?

[kht]

Just checked under contract next year 2025-2026 but is UFA after that. No player or team options.

[Chomag]

I'd take him om this team at a 1 year deal any day.

He can have Vessal's spot so not much loss there anyway

[spurraider21]

I'd take him om this team at a 1 year deal any day.

He can have Vessal's spot so not much loss there anyway
Vassell + Keldon matches salary to get a deal done. question would be how much draft compensation phoenix wants above and beyond that

i dont think we're going to get a deal that makes sense for us

[Strategic]

Only way I see this happening is if KD states publicly that he wants to be a Spur. My guess is he’ll want to go back to okc for next year after they win it all this year.

[texbound]

Vassell + Keldon matches salary to get a deal done. question would be how much draft compensation phoenix wants above and beyond that

i dont think we're going to get a deal that makes sense for us

I think PHX would ask for too much and I don't think it would be worth it from the Spurs pov.

[kht]

For one year of KD? Vassell/KJ to eat up KD's old minutes. Blake and Braham if they care enough. And with our lottery pick, they pick a defensive wing.

[CGD]

Vassell + Keldon matches salary to get a deal done. question would be how much draft compensation phoenix wants above and beyond that

i dont think we're going to get a deal that makes sense for us

I’m not giving any future draft capital of value for old Durant. If this ATL pick lands in the late teens tho maybe a draft day trade involving it?

[spurraider21]

I think PHX would ask for too much and I don't think it would be worth it from the Spurs pov.
thats where im at

[CGD]

I think PHX would ask for too much and I don't think it would be worth it from the Spurs pov.

Agreed. If I’m the other team, I’m saying “screw that, give me booker at that price instead.”

[spursparker9]

:lol Spurs ready to compete now....

Ready to compete for play-in, u mean.

[baseline bum]

Would probably cost two firsts and crap (eg Vassell + Keldon) and leave the Spurs with a razor bench of Sochan, Barnes, Champagnie, and whatever rook they picked, assuming they signed a PF with the MLE. They'd have to really hit a home run with that MLE signing. Don't see John Collins opting out to sign for MLE. Same with Naz Reid. Yabusele can't guard anyone. Aldama is retricted. Is Nance at PF enough to have a shot at contention after landing KD?

[kht]

FWIW, KD stated the Spurs were his second choice in 2016.

[scott]

Also relegates Castle to the 4th option. I don't see it.

[onechance87]

think he goes to dallas with anthony davis this offseason.

[spurraider21]

think he goes to dallas with anthony davis this offseason.
this seems somewhat likely. them or houston.

either way, durant is going back to texas imo

[BatManu20]

36 and still hooping' at a high level. HOU prob trades for him this Summer though imo.

1889884295524917378

[TekXX]

Sure but i seriously doubt he'd want to come here.

[kht]

[QUOTE=BatManu20;11204355]36 and still hooping' at a high level. HOU prob trades for him this Summer though imo.

with what assets? they do have a ton of young guys. thompson and sheppard gotta be high up that list

[kht]

If Im the Suns, a HOU package around Smith/Sheppard/Thompson sounds more appealing than ours w/ Vassell and KJ.

[The Truth #6]

Unpopular question, but does he actually help teams win at this point? Always unhappiness with him. Or maybe he chooses bad situations. Not sure.

[BackHome]

Probably goes to Dallas or Flakers

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

The problem with a Durant summer trade is that Phoenix are deep in the 2nd apron and ideally will want to take back less salary, which would mean looping in another team, thus having to pay 2 teams to make a deal. It’ll be expensive is the point. If anyone thinks he’ll go for Vassell, Keldon and a 15th pick or something similar they better hope Nico Harrison takes over as Suns GM soon.

Houston have the right pieces and after they flame out in the playoffs due to their horrible halfcourt offense in the clutch they should be motivated to get it done. They’ll easily beat most other realistic offers.

[exstatic]

Houston got those picks to go after 28 YO Booker, not a soon to be expring 36 YO Kevin Durant.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Houston got those picks to go after 28 YO Booker, not a soon to be expring 36 YO Kevin Durant.

Well I sure hope this is how Rockets think and keep holding these picks for a hypothetical while their players get more expensive and Booker is still in Phoenix. Once the picks begin conveying they’ll lose their value.

As for the Suns, as long as Ishbia doesn’t pull a Prokhorov, they’ll be decent for the next few years. They can retool around Booker.

[exstatic]

Well I sure hope this is how Rockets think and keep holding these picks for a hypothetical while their players get more expensive and Booker is still in Phoenix. Once the picks begin conveying they’ll lose their value.

As for the Suns, as long as Ishbia doesn’t pull a Prokhorov, they’ll be decent for the next few years. They can retool around Booker.

25 is a complicated swap option. 27 is an outright PHO pick, and 29 is the best two of their own, Dallas, and Phoenix. KD is fucking gone,probably this summer, but NLT 2026. Book will probably ask out when KD gets traded. If you’re Houston, you twist the knife a bit by swapping and using this year’s pick. Phoenix can still retrieve their 27 and 29 picks, and all three if they don’t get stupid and stubborn this summer, by flipping Book to Houston. They’re toast,and have no way to improve the team without owning their picks. I just don’t see Durant bringing back much in trade.

[RC_Drunkford]

https://www.nbcsports.com/nba/news/rumor-expect-kevin-durant-suns-to-part-ways-this-summer-via-trade

Kevin Durant wants to win a ring to prove he could win one without Steph Curry and Warriors. The Spurs would be an ideal place because the Spurs haven't even made the playoffs in recent memory if he wants to prove something to fans.

For the Spurs, they've indicated that they are ready to compete now, making the acquisition for Fox. Fox/Wemby/Castle/KD + (not sure who's left after trading for KD) is a filthy start for a starting lineup.

I'm thinking the worse our own pick / Atlanta and Devin Vassell/Keldon Johnson gotta be starting material for a potential package.

This team with KD is not a contender

[Guru of Nothing]

As recently as a few weeks ago I was onboard with giving up say 2 picks and contracts for Durant, but interest is waning. Maybe give up one pick (27 and beyond) is where I'd draw the line now.

Three vets (CP3, Barnes, and say Durant) is my max for next season, otherwise keep'em young.

[djohn2oo8]

Well I sure hope this is how Rockets think and keep holding these picks for a hypothetical while their players get more expensive and Booker is still in Phoenix. Once the picks begin conveying they’ll lose their value.

As for the Suns, as long as Ishbia doesn’t pull a Prokhorov, they’ll be decent for the next few years. They can retool around Booker.
Booker is not staying after Durant leaves in the summer.

[LeBowen]

Booker is not staying after Durant leaves in the summer.

If KD stays, then Booker is surely gone in 2026.
If they can retool with assets they get for KD, maybe he stays.

[Seventyniner]

If KD stays, then Booker is surely gone in 2026.
If they can retool with assets they get for KD, maybe he stays.

I agree. Trading KD wouldn't be about tearing everything down, it would be trying to gather assets to build long-term around Booker while waiting for Beal's contract to end.

The Suns will still get soaked in the round trip on KD, but he's a sunk cost at this point.

[baseline bum]

Well I sure hope this is how Rockets think and keep holding these picks for a hypothetical while their players get more expensive and Booker is still in Phoenix. Once the picks begin conveying they’ll lose their value.

As for the Suns, as long as Ishbia doesn’t pull a Prokhorov, they’ll be decent for the next few years. They can retool around Booker.

Retool around Booker with what? Half their picks are gone and the other half will be in the late 20s.

[baseline bum]

If KD stays, then Booker is surely gone in 2026.
If they can retool with assets they get for KD, maybe he stays.


I agree. Trading KD wouldn't be about tearing everything down, it would be trying to gather assets to build long-term around Booker while waiting for Beal's contract to end.

The Suns will still get soaked in the round trip on KD, but he's a sunk cost at this point.

37 Year Old Durant isn't going to get them much. I don't think two picks + crap matching salary would be them getting soaked tbh, they blew the last years of his prime and they'll get nothing remotely in the ballpark of what they paid for him. They were stupid for not sending Booker to Houston last week and then getting what they could for Durant, who is worth way less this summer than he was last week.

[Ice009]

If KD stays, then Booker is surely gone in 2026.
If they can retool with assets they get for KD, maybe he stays.

Why would Booker be gone if KD stays?

[baseline bum]

EDIT: My bad, read that wrong

[Seventyniner]

37 Year Old Durant isn't going to get them much. I don't think two picks + crap matching salary would be them getting soaked tbh, they blew the last years of his prime and they'll get nothing remotely in the ballpark of what they paid for him. They were stupid for not sending Booker to Houston last week and then getting what they could for Durant, who is worth way less this summer than he was last week.

Anything they could get back this summer is more than they would get in 2026 when he can just walk in free agency. They are so asset-bare in terms of picks that each pick they can receive carries a lot of value to them.

[baseline bum]

Anything they could get back this summer is more than they would get in 2026 when he can just walk in free agency. They are so asset-bare in terms of picks that each pick they can receive carries a lot of value to them.

I can kind of understand them not valuing picks though when you look at their draft history: Ayton, Josh Jackson, Dragan Bender, Jarrett Culver, Marquiss Chriss, Jalen Smith all with top 10 picks :lmao

[exstatic]

If KD stays, then Booker is surely gone in 2026.
If they can retool with assets they get for KD, maybe he stays.

They’re not going together a lot for a 36 YO with one year left on his deal.

[exstatic]

I agree. Trading KD wouldn't be about tearing everything down, it would be trying to gather assets to build long-term around Booker while waiting for Beal's contract to end.

The Suns will still get soaked in the round trip on KD, but he's a sunk cost at this point.

PHO never made the playoffs with Booker as their focus, no matter how much he shot or scored.

[baseline bum]

They’re not going together a lot for a 36 YO with one year left on his deal.

37 YO next year

[baseline bum]

This team with KD is not a contender

What about if vASSell is gone though?

[scott]

I can kind of understand them not valuing picks though when you look at their draft history: Ayton, Josh Jackson, Dragan Bender, Jarrett Culver, Marquiss Chriss, Jalen Smith all with top 10 picks :lmao

I think Ishiba is exactly the kind of owner to see how Houston has leverage on him and just say "fuck these guys" and not deal with them out of spite. If he could just find another owner who is stupid enough to think KD is the difference maker for them to take a next step, he can get enough back (in players, not picks) to retool around Booker and stay on the treadmill to fuck over Houston and be just good enough to sell out the stadium every night.

Here are some fringe teams who might be see KD as someone who can take their franchise to a next level in the short run and might foolishly give up some long term upside for 2-3 years of KD. These are the kinds of teams that may not measure success in Championships (and honestly I'm kind of afraid we might become one of those teams) but instead just want to make the playoffs most years, sell out the stadium for a few extra games, and be an exciting pastime that the community adores.

Spotrac Trade Machine isn't yet set up for Off-Season mode, so I didn't form full packages but the moves below would be the hypothetical centerpiece of deals.

ORLANDO. This is the first team that comes to mind. And mind you, I think this would be a stupid trade by the Magic but I could see them doing it and selling to the fanbase the arrival of an all-time great star. Magic get KD, Suns get Franz. This isn't quite as bad as Luka for AD, but it's pretty close. You suggest something like this to anyone and they immediately think it's absurd, but when you think about it... can't you see ORL doing something like this? ORL has a lot of really good young talent, but they are constructed rather poorly. I'm not sure that Paolo and Franz are a great fit next to one another, and certainly not with Suggs as the 3rd cog in the machine.

ATLANTA. As we know, the Hawks have zero incentive to be bad in the short term, and they may instead have a heavy incentive to want to keep their face of the franchise happy so he'll extend. Hawks get KD, Suns get Jalen Johnson and Okongwu. Again, extremely short sighted, but I could see something like this happening. If the Hawks could pair this with using the SAC pick on someone like Malauch... now they've got a happy Trae and a Trae/Daniels/Risacher/Durant/Malauch starting 5 to try to make the playoffs with in a weak east.

MINNESOTA. The Wolves were rumored to be making a late push for KD at the deadline. Gobert + Dillingham for KD? This keeps PHX competitive at least.

These are just a few examples. The bigger impediment to PHX's ability to stay competitive is Beal IMO :lol PHX for ever taking him on

[spurraider21]

i dont see the hawks scenario at all tbh. johnson just turned 23. no shot theyre moving him

[scott]

i dont see the hawks scenario at all tbh. johnson just turned 23. no shot theyre moving him

I would normally agree, but I also just watched Luka Doncic get traded for Anthony Davis. "No shot [thing happens]" is no longer part of my lexicon.

[kht]

I think Ishiba is exactly the kind of owner to see how Houston has leverage on him and just say "fuck these guys" and not deal with them out of spite. If he could just find another owner who is stupid enough to think KD is the difference maker for them to take a next step, he can get enough back (in players, not picks) to retool around Booker and stay on the treadmill to fuck over Houston and be just good enough to sell out the stadium every night.

Here are some fringe teams who might be see KD as someone who can take their franchise to a next level in the short run and might foolishly give up some long term upside for 2-3 years of KD. These are the kinds of teams that may not measure success in Championships (and honestly I'm kind of afraid we might become one of those teams) but instead just want to make the playoffs most years, sell out the stadium for a few extra games, and be an exciting pastime that the community adores.

Spotrac Trade Machine isn't yet set up for Off-Season mode, so I didn't form full packages but the moves below would be the hypothetical centerpiece of deals.

ORLANDO. This is the first team that comes to mind. And mind you, I think this would be a stupid trade by the Magic but I could see them doing it and selling to the fanbase the arrival of an all-time great star. Magic get KD, Suns get Franz. This isn't quite as bad as Luka for AD, but it's pretty close. You suggest something like this to anyone and they immediately think it's absurd, but when you think about it... can't you see ORL doing something like this? ORL has a lot of really good young talent, but they are constructed rather poorly. I'm not sure that Paolo and Franz are a great fit next to one another, and certainly not with Suggs as the 3rd cog in the machine.

ATLANTA. As we know, the Hawks have zero incentive to be bad in the short term, and they may instead have a heavy incentive to want to keep their face of the franchise happy so he'll extend. Hawks get KD, Suns get Jalen Johnson and Okongwu. Again, extremely short sighted, but I could see something like this happening. If the Hawks could pair this with using the SAC pick on someone like Malauch... now they've got a happy Trae and a Trae/Daniels/Risacher/Durant/Malauch starting 5 to try to make the playoffs with in a weak east.

MINNESOTA. The Wolves were rumored to be making a late push for KD at the deadline. Gobert + Dillingham for KD? This keeps PHX competitive at least.

These are just a few examples. The bigger impediment to PHX's ability to stay competitive is Beal IMO :lol PHX for ever taking him on

For Atlanta,
You actually thinking a 2 for 1 (starter) swap for KD makes them better? They'd need to replace that depth with money they don't have.

The other two teams are lateral moves at best. Orlando is no way giving up their homegrown talent for 1-2 years of Durant.

After the dust settles, the Spurs are the most willingly team with the most to offer behind the Rockets after being convinced in this thread.

[djohn2oo8]

I think Ishiba is exactly the kind of owner to see how Houston has leverage on him and just say "fuck these guys" and not deal with them out of spite. If he could just find another owner who is stupid enough to think KD is the difference maker for them to take a next step, he can get enough back (in players, not picks) to retool around Booker and stay on the treadmill to fuck over Houston and be just good enough to sell out the stadium every night.

Here are some fringe teams who might be see KD as someone who can take their franchise to a next level in the short run and might foolishly give up some long term upside for 2-3 years of KD. These are the kinds of teams that may not measure success in Championships (and honestly I'm kind of afraid we might become one of those teams) but instead just want to make the playoffs most years, sell out the stadium for a few extra games, and be an exciting pastime that the community adores.

Spotrac Trade Machine isn't yet set up for Off-Season mode, so I didn't form full packages but the moves below would be the hypothetical centerpiece of deals.

ORLANDO. This is the first team that comes to mind. And mind you, I think this would be a stupid trade by the Magic but I could see them doing it and selling to the fanbase the arrival of an all-time great star. Magic get KD, Suns get Franz. This isn't quite as bad as Luka for AD, but it's pretty close. You suggest something like this to anyone and they immediately think it's absurd, but when you think about it... can't you see ORL doing something like this? ORL has a lot of really good young talent, but they are constructed rather poorly. I'm not sure that Paolo and Franz are a great fit next to one another, and certainly not with Suggs as the 3rd cog in the machine.

ATLANTA. As we know, the Hawks have zero incentive to be bad in the short term, and they may instead have a heavy incentive to want to keep their face of the franchise happy so he'll extend. Hawks get KD, Suns get Jalen Johnson and Okongwu. Again, extremely short sighted, but I could see something like this happening. If the Hawks could pair this with using the SAC pick on someone like Malauch... now they've got a happy Trae and a Trae/Daniels/Risacher/Durant/Malauch starting 5 to try to make the playoffs with in a weak east.

MINNESOTA. The Wolves were rumored to be making a late push for KD at the deadline. Gobert + Dillingham for KD? This keeps PHX competitive at least.

These are just a few examples. The bigger impediment to PHX's ability to stay competitive is Beal IMO :lol PHX for ever taking him on
He can try to fuck us over all he wants. We still have his picks.

[scott]

He can try to fuck us over all he wants. We still have his picks.

That's the thing... he won't care. Enjoy the 20th pick in the draft.

I still think there is a high likelihood that HOU and PHX end up doing some kind of deal for either KD or Booker, but all the time in this league people say things like "scenario X is inventible because team A has no other choice" and then something else completely happens.

Expect the unexpected.

[scott]

Vegas loves to make us the most likely destination for just about everyone... but we're not even sniffing the top of the charts on this one

1890130047614480478

[djohn2oo8]

That's the thing... he won't care. Enjoy the 20th pick in the draft.

I still think there is a high likelihood that HOU and PHX end up doing some kind of deal for either KD or Booker, but all the time in this league people say things like "scenario X is inventible because team A has no other choice" and then something else completely happens.

Expect the unexpected.
They have no way to upgrade their team. They missed out on Butler. Durant is out in the summer. Why would Booker want to stay? They have no future

[scott]

They have no way to upgrade their team. They missed out on Butler. Durant is out in the summer. Why would Booker want to stay? They have no future

Famous words of people who counted their chickens before they hatched

[djohn2oo8]

Famous words of people who counted their chickens before they hatched
The fuck are you talking about Edgar Allen Poe? The Rockets are slated to have around the 11th or 12th pick from Phoenix just this year alone. Durant leaves and that pick is top 5 in the future

[Joseph Kony]

he's going to the Lakers imho. They will cobble together some pile of garbage to trade to the Suns and Ishiba will take it because he will stupidly think it will help them stay competitive the following season rather than realizing his team is garbage and needs to be blown up and parted out for assets

[thOOdee]

Vegas loves to make us the most likely destination for just about everyone... but we're not even sniffing the top of the charts on this one

1890130047614480478

Can definitely see the knicks and maybe the rockets if they don't win it all this year.

Not sure I can see a team up again with kyrie, and don't know how going back to OKC wouldn't be looked at as another beta move. doubt it happens.

[scott]

The fuck are you talking about Edgar Allen Poe? The Rockets are slated to have around the 11th or 12th pick from Phoenix just this year alone. Durant leaves and that pick is top 5 in the future

Just think of how good your G-League team is going to be once you add the 11th pick next to Reed Sheppard!

[RC_Drunkford]

What about if vASSell is gone though?

what if Mitch Johnson is still the coach?

[exstatic]

That's the thing... he won't care. Enjoy the 20th pick in the draft.

I still think there is a high likelihood that HOU and PHX end up doing some kind of deal for either KD or Booker, but all the time in this league people say things like "scenario X is inventible because team A has no other choice" and then something else completely happens.

Expect the unexpected.

This year? Sure. I’ll bet those 27 and 29 picks will be tasty, though. I would insist on it being Booker, and that would be the only way they get the 27 and 29 picks, along with this year’s. They really need to blow it up. There no way to build anything but a first round out or playin team around Booker, and without their picks, there’s no way to improve the team around him.

[TD 21]

Idea for the off season: Vassell, Barnes, two 1sts (can't decipher which makes most sense until learning where own/Hawks '25 land) for Durant.

[djohn2oo8]

This year? Sure. I’ll bet those 27 and 29 picks will be tasty, though. I would insist on it being Booker, and that would be the only way they get the 27 and 29 picks, along with this year’s. They really need to blow it up. There no way to build anything but a first round out or playin team around Booker, and without their picks, there’s no way to improve the team around him.
Yep. Can’t build anything without those picks.

[djohn2oo8]

Just think of how good your G-League team is going to be once you add the 11th pick next to Reed Sheppard!
Except Reed is back up now and Udoka doesn’t really play rookies, and due to the teams record there hasn’t been minutes for him until now.

[baseline bum]

what if Mitch Johnson is still the coach?

There's no what if, he's gonna get a new contract in the summer, like a sequel to Demarre Carroll.

[scott]

This year? Sure. I’ll bet those 27 and 29 picks will be tasty, though. I would insist on it being Booker, and that would be the only way they get the 27 and 29 picks, along with this year’s. They really need to blow it up. There no way to build anything but a first round out or playin team around Booker, and without their picks, there’s no way to improve the team around him.

The Jazz probably once felt that way about their 2027 LAL pick. Now they have Luka. Unexpected things happen, and the league changes quickly. Phoenix has more outs than just rolling over and handing Houston Booker or Top 10 picks. They almost certainly aren't going to become a Championship contender again anytime soon, but there is a lot of white space in between those extreme outcomes. Team owners don't view their teams as either needing to compete for titles or tank. Some of them are completely happy to be a first round out team (see the Sacramento Kings). That's the entire point... the Suns have more pathways than are apparent at first glance. They are more likely to do a deal with HOU than with any other team (and that's what I'd do if I were them), but they don't *have* to, like it's being portrayed here.

Just like last year when people said the Hawks *had* to sell Trae for salvage value or go in the gutter, the Hawks have found ways to still a middling team so as not to deliver to the Spurs high lotto picks and still have pathways to improve.

[RC_Drunkford]

There's no what if, he's gonna get a new contract in the summer, like a sequel to Demarre Carroll.

He will be on the coaching staff for at least another 5 years. Who becomes the head coach is another question, but as of now it's either Mitch or grandpa til the casket drops.

[spurraider21]

I would normally agree, but I also just watched Luka Doncic get traded for Anthony Davis. "No shot [thing happens]" is no longer part of my lexicon.
but when was the last time anything like that happened

one team made a deal that is already being considered one of the worst or at least most shocking trades in history of pro sports, that doesnt mean its suddenly commonplace. its like assuming you'll win the lottery because you saw on the news somebody win the big powerball

[ffadicted]

but when was the last time anything like that happened

one team made a deal that is already being considered one of the worst or at least most shocking trades in history of pro sports, that doesnt mean its suddenly commonplace. its like assuming you'll win the lottery because you saw on the news somebody win the big powerball

Also don't forget these things somehow only happen when the Lakers are involved...

[scott]

but when was the last time anything like that happened

one team made a deal that is already being considered one of the worst or at least most shocking trades in history of pro sports, that doesnt mean its suddenly commonplace. its like assuming you'll win the lottery because you saw on the news somebody win the big powerball

The question shouldn't be when the last time a Luka-like deal happened, because that was certainly unprecedented... but the more appropriate question is how many times to do teams with seemingly nowhere to go but down defy odds and not be quite as bad as folks thought? And the answer is pretty regularly. It was only a year ago that people were saying that the Hawks were going to be terrible, they had no choice but to accept pennies on the dollar for Trae and we'd be there to reap the benefits (either by getting Trae for cheap or cashing in on a 3-way deal, or getting ourselves a top lottery pick). Instead, the Hawks found a way to get marginally better, have an incoming pick that's going to be just about as good as the one they are surrendering, and keep on trucking.

There isn't a binary fork in the road that teams must choose from (give Booker to Houston or give Houston Top 5 picks).

[cutewizard]

Why not Spurs??

[Strategic]

I’d want him to restructure his contract, and don’t know why he would.

[Spursfanfromafar]

KD, I think is a pipe-dream. He is too moody and I don't think he would prefer the Spurs over his demented buddy Kyrie. They seem to have an eerie relationship..despite all the nonsense that Irving pulled in Brooklyn and made life hell for KD, the latter has no hate lost for him.

One player I think the Spurs can target next season is either Jrue Holiday or Derrick White. With the repeater tax going to pinch the Celtics, especially if they don't win a title this year, one of these two can be had for the Spurs. I think White will be a seamless fit along with Fox, Wemby and Castle. If Castle and Sochan become better 3P shooters, then a lineup of Fox, White, Castle, Sochan and Wemby will be very good. Plus if the Spurs are lucky to get a solid shooter in the draft, and a decent backup Center..their squad will be well rounded next season.

[exstatic]

KD, I think is a pipe-dream. He is too moody and I don't think he would prefer the Spurs over his demented buddy Kyrie. They seem to have an eerie relationship..despite all the nonsense that Irving pulled in Brooklyn and made life hell for KD, the latter has no hate lost for him.

One player I think the Spurs can target next season is either Jrue Holiday or Derrick White. With the repeater tax going to pinch the Celtics, especially if they don't win a title this year, one of these two can be had for the Spurs. I think White will be a seamless fit along with Fox, Wemby and Castle. If Castle and Sochan become better 3P shooters, then a lineup of Fox, White, Castle, Sochan and Wemby will be very good. Plus if the Spurs are lucky to get a solid shooter in the draft, and a decent backup Center..their squad will be well rounded next season.

ISWYDT

[kht]

KD, I think is a pipe-dream. He is too moody and I don't think he would prefer the Spurs over his demented buddy Kyrie. They seem to have an eerie relationship..despite all the nonsense that Irving pulled in Brooklyn and made life hell for KD, the latter has no hate lost for him.

One player I think the Spurs can target next season is either Jrue Holiday or Derrick White. With the repeater tax going to pinch the Celtics, especially if they don't win a title this year, one of these two can be had for the Spurs. I think White will be a seamless fit along with Fox, Wemby and Castle. If Castle and Sochan become better 3P shooters, then a lineup of Fox, White, Castle, Sochan and Wemby will be very good. Plus if the Spurs are lucky to get a solid shooter in the draft, and a decent backup Center..their squad will be well rounded next season.

Why would White chose the Spurs over running it back with the Celtics? I'm guessing the Celtics are gonna have a hard time keeping the gang together? White is gonna be 31 next year...

[mo7888]

Why would White chose the Spurs over running it back with the Celtics? I'm guessing the Celtics are gonna have a hard time keeping the gang together? White is gonna be 31 next year...

I think he's talking about the Celts trading White to reduce their tax.

[Spursfanfromafar]

I think he's talking about the Celts trading White to reduce their tax.

Exactly. If the Celtics run back the same team in 2025-26, their luxury tax bill will balloon to close to $280 million and thats 50 mil more than their salaries ($230 million). I dont think they are trading Tatum or Brown. Jrue seems the likely candidate if age is a factor. But his contract ends in 2027-28 (age 37) while White's ends in 2028-29 (age 34). There is a better chance of White getting trade over Jrue.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/contracts/BOS.html (for reference).

The Celtics' current owners are also trying to sell their franchise. If they win the title again this year, there is a chance that the new owners might want to pay the stiff penalties, but if they don't.. they might have to trim costs for the buyers. That makes White/Jrue and even Pritchard expendable. And the Spurs should jump at White if they get a chance. Vassell can be either a sixth man option or traded while Keldon must be traded.

[mo7888]

Exactly. If the Celtics run back the same team in 2025-26, their luxury tax bill will balloon to close to $280 million and thats 50 mil more than their salaries ($230 million). I dont think they are trading Tatum or Brown. Jrue seems the likely candidate if age is a factor. But his contract ends in 2027-28 (age 37) while White's ends in 2028-29 (age 34). There is a better chance of White getting trade over Jrue.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/contracts/BOS.html (for reference).

The Celtics' current owners are also trying to sell their franchise. If they win the title again this year, there is a chance that the new owners might want to pay the stiff penalties, but if they don't.. they might have to trim costs for the buyers. That makes White/Jrue and even Pritchard expendable. And the Spurs should jump at White if they get a chance. Vassell can be either a sixth man option or traded while Keldon must be traded.

I agree that they are going to move someone and I think they'd prefer it to be Jrue, but it'll be tougher to do that. I would discount Brown being moved though. The issue will be moving someone and not taking back salary ..that's gonna be tough to negotiate when the Nets are the only team with that kind of room

[baseline bum]

Would have loved to have White back a couple of months ago, but with Fox here and Castle showing he's legit don't really see White as a need and $30 million a year for a backup sounds kind of steep. The Spurs desperately need quality forwards.

[spursparker9]

KD should not come here

Spurs ain't ready until 2028

[tonight...you]

I would normally agree, but I also just watched Luka Doncic get traded for Anthony Davis. "No shot [thing happens]" is no longer part of my lexicon.
You need to add a lakercon to your lexicon, tbh.

[SpursGenius]

Just checked under contract next year 2025-2026 but is UFA after that. No player or team options.
which means we dont have to give suns much. Keldon Vassell and one first rounder should do it. If not sign him as free agent.

[BatManu20]

It's Amico so take it with a grain of salt. HOU makes more sense for him imo but would love KD on the Spurs depending on the price. Hopefully Keldon would be included in any trade scenario.

1890562733168361795

[Ice009]

Were the Wolves trying to get him (KD) too this past trade deadline? I can't remember, or was that Doncic?

[BatManu20]

Were the Wolves trying to get his too this past trade deadline? I can't remember, or was that Doncic?

There was a report that Nico Harrison reached out to Minnesota to see if they'd be interested in trading Ant for Luka. Same with Milwaukee for Giannis.

[Chillen]

The Beal trade literally ruined the Suns. I would love for the Spurs to get KD.

[thOOdee]

The spurs, knicks, and the rockets are the only teams I can see durant taking them over the hump and at the same time being praised and helping his legacy. You know gaining a legitimate chip is a priority to him evidenced by avoiding creating another super team and choosing teams like the nets and the suns.

[exstatic]

The Beal trade literally ruined the Suns. I would love for the Spurs to get KD.

Exactly. That’s going to force them into a hard reset. They won’t get much for Durant on an ending contract and at his age. If they do offload him, they won’t have assets enough to build around Book, who isn’t a #1 option anyway.

I would offload them both, getting their own picks back from Houston in exchange for Book, but make sure that Bradley Beal stayed for the whole horrific tank/rebuild since he refused to cooperate with the Butler trade, the only scenario that would have allowed this team to move forward.

[kht]

It's Amico so take it with a grain of salt. HOU makes more sense for him imo but would love KD on the Spurs depending on the price. Hopefully Keldon would be included in any trade scenario.

1890562733168361795

what makes you say HOU makes more sense for him

[kht]

which means we dont have to give suns much. Keldon Vassell and one first rounder should do it. If not sign him as free agent.

One year later as a FA? Not sure what the drop off would be. If I'm Phoenix, I'd take that deal in a heartbeat...

[scott]

I think if you add Durant, Sochan suddenly becomes a lot more playable. Fox/Castle/Sochan/KD/Wemby fits well enough.

I just think it's a little too crowded on offense, would be interesting to see how that works.

[Knoxxx]

How cheap could we get Durant if he demands a Fox like trade destination to SA?

[ambchang]

There was a report that Nico Harrison reached out to Minnesota to see if they'd be interested in trading Ant for Luka. Same with Milwaukee for Giannis.

I have some doubts. The original story was Nico can’t trust anyone other than Pelinka and the backlash was immense on that. Then out of no where he tried to trade for ant and Giannis.

[djohn2oo8]

what makes you say HOU makes more sense for him
He LOVES Udoka

[mo7888]

I think if you add Durant, Sochan suddenly becomes a lot more playable. Fox/Castle/Sochan/KD/Wemby fits well enough.

I just think it's a little too crowded on offense, would be interesting to see how that works.

If Castle can get his 3 pt % up to league average then I think thats a devastating lineup for a couple years. If he can't it's still decent.

[BatManu20]

what makes you say HOU makes more sense for him

Cause he's 36 and in win-now mode, and HOU is just a significantly better team than us right now, especially Defensively (they're currently ranked 6th in Total Defense). They're a lot closer to contending than we are. They're not a legitimate contender right now because their Offense isn't good enough but that's why KD would help them tremendously. He would slide right into that 3 spot that's currently being occupied by Tari Eason. Their biggest need right now is a legitimate wing scorer. Would be a good fit for KD imo. That said, I'd much rather see him in the Silver & Black obviously.

[scott]

Were the Wolves trying to get his too this past trade deadline? I can't remember, or was that Doncic?

Supposedly MIN made an offer for KD in the last few hours of the deadline.

[baseline bum]

I don't think Durant goes to Houston mostly because I think the Rockets are going to force the Suns to give them Booker. 37YO Durant ain't gonna get them their picks back.

[Chillen]

I don't think Durant goes to Houston mostly because I think the Rockets are going to force the Suns to give them Booker. 37YO Durant ain't gonna get them their picks back.

Exactly. I think Booker will go to Houston. So Durant maybe can dictate a trade to Spurs. Both Rockets and Spurs have a boatload of draft picks and that's what the Suns want along with young players back.


Exactly. That’s going to force them into a hard reset. They won’t get much for Durant on an ending contract and at his age. If they do offload him, they won’t have assets enough to build around Book, who isn’t a #1 option anyway.

I would offload them both, getting their own picks back from Houston in exchange for Book, but make sure that Bradley Beal stayed for the whole horrific tank/rebuild since he refused to cooperate with the Butler trade, the only scenario that would have allowed this team to move forward.

Pretty sure Ishbia would love to let Beal rot in a rebuild especially after he pretty much blocked the Butler trade. If there is one player in the NBA laughing their way to the bank it's Bradley Beal.

[Ice009]

He LOVES Udoka

Where does he know Ime from? Have they crossed paths during one of the previous Olympics or something? Can't recall where he would have gotten to know him. Unless he just likes what he did with the Celtics and likes his coaching from afar.

[mo7888]

Where does he know Ime from? Have they crossed paths during one of the previous Olympics or something? Can't recall where he would have gotten to know him. Unless he just likes what he did with the Celtics and likes his coaching from afar.

He was on staff with The Nets and USA basketball while Durant was there.

[Ice009]

He was on staff with The Nets and USA basketball while Durant was there.

I completely forgot he was with the Nets. I thought it might have been through USA Basketball. Since he knows him so well, I think that might place Houston at the forefront if they actually want to go out and try and get him. The only saving grace there, though, is I think they'd want Booker instead due to his age. I guess it all depends on what each player would cost the Rockets and/or if they want to keep and use most of those Phoenix assets they acquired in the CP3 trade.

I wonder if the Spurs are going to take a really hard look and try to get him.

[CGD]

I’m not giving PHX anything over real value for old/injury prone KD. Keldon/Vassell and a BS pick is about it.

[mo7888]

I completely forgot his was with the Nets. I thought it might have been through USA Basketball. Since he knows him so well, I think that might place Houston at the forefront if they actually want to go out and try and get him. The only saving grace there, though, is I think they'd want Booker instead due to his age. I guess it all depends on what each player would cost the Rockets and/or if they want to keep and use most of those Phoenix assets they acquired in the CP3 trade.

I wonder if the Spurs are going to take a really hard look and try to get him.

They definitely want Booker. I'm sure they'd like both, but I don't see how they can realistically match salary to do that.

[TE]

For 1-2 years, probably 1.

[cd98]

Is Kevin Durant worth the money anymore given that he hasn't made his team a true title contender in a number of years?

[timtonymanu]

Durant on the Spurs would be a perfect fit but he’s too much of a beta to want to come here or help us develop our players ala Chris Paul. He will want the spotlight. For the talent alone, yes I would pay for him, but with all his other baggage, it might not be worth it. He’ll just keep wanting to look for greener pastures wherever he goes and he would do the same here.

[poopbox]

Absolute no to KD. Everywhere he goes the team completely implodes

[exstatic]

Durant on the Spurs would be a perfect fit but he’s too much of a beta to want to come here or help us develop our players ala Chris Paul. He will want the spotlight. For the talent alone, yes I would pay for him, but with all his other baggage, it might not be worth it. He’ll just keep wanting to look for greener pastures wherever he goes and he would do the same here.

He’s a big baby. Bitching to the refs AT THE FUCKING ALL STAR GAME because they would give him a foul call that would have ended the game.

[baseline bum]

Absolute no to KD. Everywhere he goes the team completely implodes

Can't blame him for Kyrie being an antivaxxer in Brooklyn or Draymond acting like a faggot in Golden State. Phoenix is imploding because they blew up a really good team for him when all they should have done was sell high on Ayton.

[scott]

Can't blame him for Kyrie being an antivaxxer in Brooklyn or Draymond acting like a faggot in Golden State. Phoenix is imploding because they blew up a really good team for him when all they should have done was sell high on Ayton.

Sounds like he still likes Kyrie and wouldn't mind pairing up with him again, from reports. GO figure.

[Em-City]

Sounds like he still likes Kyrie and wouldn't mind pairing up with him again, from reports. GO figure.

Everyone likes kyrie- he's one of the most respected players in the league

[Chillen]

Can't blame him for Kyrie being an antivaxxer in Brooklyn or Draymond acting like a faggot in Golden State. Phoenix is imploding because they blew up a really good team for him when all they should have done was sell high on Ayton.

They gave up way to many picks to get KD but they are imploding because of the stupid Bradley Beal trade. It's eating up $50 million of the cap space so they have less options to build around KD and Booker.

[poopbox]

Can't blame him for Kyrie being an antivaxxer in Brooklyn or Draymond acting like a faggot in Golden State. Phoenix is imploding because they blew up a really good team for him when all they should have done was sell high on Ayton.

Kyrie is one of KD's friends. KD aloud himself to be hoed by Draymond. Regardless of what Phoenix did or didn't do he is not really moving the needle for them when it comes to wins and losses.

[Knoxxx]

He’s a big baby. Bitching to the refs AT THE FUCKING ALL STAR GAME because they would give him a foul call that would have ended the game.

It was an extremely obvious hack by Castle per the replay. Don’t disagree a poor way to end the game, but it was a poor game to begin with so it’d have been fitting. It’s not the fault of a player that gets maimed when a foul is not called, and I’m sure anyone in the moment would have been like WTF!?!?

And don’t get me wrong either, I am no fan of Durant. Though his shooting would be welcome on SAS, so long as he understood he was not a main option. Not sure he’s ready for that or ever will be.

[exstatic]

It was an extremely obvious hack by Castle per the replay. Don’t disagree a poor way to end the game, but it was a poor game to begin with so it’d have been fitting. It’s not the fault of a player that gets maimed when a foul is not called, and I’m sure anyone in the moment would have been like WTF!?!?

And don’t get me wrong either, I am no fan of Durant. Though his shooting would be welcome on SAS, so long as he understood he was not a main option. Not sure he’s ready for that or ever will be.

It was in the moment, but it was also after the game, when they’d already won. He couldn’t fucking let some no call in an exhibition game go, and that’s what I had a problem with, the postgame bitchfest on the sidelines as all of the players are putting their warmups back on.

[Knoxxx]

It was in the moment, but it was also after the game, when they’d already won. He couldn’t fucking let some no call in an exhibition game go, and that’s what I had a problem with, the postgame bitchfest on the sidelines as all of the players are putting their warmups back on.

Gotcha, no I didn’t catch that he was still whining AFTER the game ended, that’s pretty lame.

[John B]

I’m okay with KD but not on a king’s ransom, and in understanding that this is Wemby’s team. I think he’ll get his opportunity to get his ring without Curry, and help his friend CP3 get his first ring.

[scott]

Been thinking about this some more...

...and fuck KD. Don't want him tainting Wemby, Fox and Castle's first chip with his ring chasing stink. And I say this as someone who actually likes KD :lol

[baseline bum]

Been thinking about this some more...

...and fuck KD. Don't want him tainting Wemby, Fox and Castle's first chip with his ring chasing stink. And I say this as someone who actually likes KD :lol

You wouldn't take him for Vassell + crap + lesser 2025 pick if his extension demands are realistic?

[BacktoBasics]

KD blows teams up

[scott]

You wouldn't take him for Vassell + crap + lesser 2025 pick if his extension demands are realistic?

Sure I suppose if that's all it takes, but I think we'd all need to be prepared for some messy on the court results. He kind of crowds out a lot of what Wemby does as an ISO player. I honestly don't even really love the fit here when you dig in deeper than surface level, at least not without de-prioritizing Castle and having Wemby and Fox each take a slight step back in USG (which may or may not be a good thing... idk).

But, I think PHX will get better offers than that and we don't need to worry about it.

[baseline bum]

Sure I suppose if that's all it takes, but I think we'd all need to be prepared for some messy on the court results. He kind of crowds out a lot of what Wemby does as an ISO player. I honestly don't even really love the fit here when you dig in deeper than surface level, at least not without de-prioritizing Castle and having Wemby and Fox each take a slight step back in USG (which may or may not be a good thing... idk).

But, I think PHX will get better offers than that and we don't need to worry about it.

I really don't think they will get anything appreciably better. KD this summer is going to be worth a lot less than KD would have been worth two weeks ago when he could have been a piece towards a 2025 title run. Phoenix is going to find a real lowball market for a 37 year old Durant who is probably going to want a two year, $120 million extension in a year. Shit I think I'm already talking myself out of wanting him.

[ffadicted]

I'm not sure I take a KD rental for anything meaningful in a trade. If we give up anything worthwhile for a 37 year old KD on a big contract (which we'd have to, surely), anything short of a championship makes that trade horrible no? I guess you could argue playoff experience for the young lads but I'm just not sure it's worth it, I feel confident with a couple of smarter moves for younger players we can make the POs next year and have a real shot at winning a series or two if Wemby/Fox go off.

Even Vassell, surely we can package him and picks for a more long term starter piece no?

[scott]

My guess is that KD is entering that LeBron territory where he can really only sign 35% 1+1 deals from here on out. He's still performing at an elite level (16th in the league in both Overall DPM and O-DPM)... but he'll be 37 before the start of next season which just raises the natural question of reliability and durability and it really has nothing to do with KD and everything to do with just being 37.

And what existing team core of consequence does he truly fit? He's still so good offensively that you really need to base your entire team around him, or at a minimum a two-headed beast like setup (like PHX currently runs. Booker is actually better than KD in O-DPM this year, ranking 9th). The only ones I can think of are HOU, DEN, GSW (if you got rid of Butler)... DAL is probably the closest you can get to a "big 3" that actually works. After that the only teams that fit are ones that who aren't serious contenders and/or don't have young cores already in place... a team like ATL probably makes sense but I can't see it happening. ORL makes sense on the court but they'd have to give up one of Franz or Paolo which seems stupid. MIA?

Honestly has PHX simply not traded for Beal and instead put that money to better use with competent other players, they wouldn't be that bad. The Beal trade surely must go down as one of the worst of all time. Even Nico Harrison says no to that deal.

[100%duncan]

Been thinking about this some more...

...and fuck KD. Don't want him tainting Wemby, Fox and Castle's first chip with his ring chasing stink. And I say this as someone who actually likes KD :lol

I'd sacrifice a lot of things for another 'chip tbh. Couldn't really care less about any "narrative". I think this is very essential when you have a GOAT potential player, he needs to go over that hump quick and not go the lebron route when he took 9 years, leaving his team and a literal superteam to do it.

[objective]

I'd have to know who the coach is before wanting the Spurs to commit to a Durant trade

He would walk all over and sabotage our naive Big Brain Mitch.

I don't think Pop with a thousand yards stare and a fistful of pills would be up to it.

Never forget Durant with Kyrie got a coach fired for the crime of starting a good developing young center in Jarrett Allen over the thoroughly washed up DeAndre Jordan. Durant is a self absorbed clown.

You would need one hell of a coach to handle him, especially as his game fades in the course of becoming washed up long before he comes to accept that.

[tonight...you]

My guess is that KD is entering that LeBron territory where he can really only sign 35% 1+1 deals from here on out. He's still performing at an elite level (16th in the league in both Overall DPM and O-DPM)... but he'll be 37 before the start of next season which just raises the natural question of reliability and durability and it really has nothing to do with KD and everything to do with just being 37.

And what existing team core of consequence does he truly fit? He's still so good offensively that you really need to base your entire team around him, or at a minimum a two-headed beast like setup (like PHX currently runs. Booker is actually better than KD in O-DPM this year, ranking 9th). The only ones I can think of are HOU, DEN, GSW (if you got rid of Butler)... DAL is probably the closest you can get to a "big 3" that actually works. After that the only teams that fit are ones that who aren't serious contenders and/or don't have young cores already in place... a team like ATL probably makes sense but I can't see it happening. ORL makes sense on the court but they'd have to give up one of Franz or Paolo which seems stupid. MIA?

Honestly has PHX simply not traded for Beal and instead put that money to better use with competent other players, they wouldn't be that bad. The Beal trade surely must go down as one of the worst of all time. Even Nico Harrison says no to that deal.
Not if Pelinka was the GM. Those 2 bed up.

[tonight...you]

I'd have to know who the coach is before wanting the Spurs to commit to a Durant trade

He would walk all over and sabotage our naive Big Brain Mitch.

I don't think Pop with a thousand yards stare and a fistful of pills would be up to it.

Never forget Durant with Kyrie got a coach fired for the crime of starting a good developing young center in Jarrett Allen over the thoroughly washed up DeAndre Jordan. Durant is a self absorbed clown.

You would need one hell of a coach to handle him, especially as his game fades in the course of becoming washed up long before he comes to accept that.
I wish I knew how to put Mitch's face on a gif of one of the Martians in Mars Attacks!.

It just seems appropriate right now.

[Ice009]

I'm not interested in this clown. He turned the Spurs down whatever year that was (2016)? Why take a much older version?

[baseline bum]

I'd have to know who the coach is before wanting the Spurs to commit to a Durant trade

He would walk all over and sabotage our naive Big Brain Mitch.

I don't think Pop with a thousand yards stare and a fistful of pills would be up to it.

Never forget Durant with Kyrie got a coach fired for the crime of starting a good developing young center in Jarrett Allen over the thoroughly washed up DeAndre Jordan. Durant is a self absorbed clown.

You would need one hell of a coach to handle him, especially as his game fades in the course of becoming washed up long before he comes to accept that.


Even worse, they got a really good coach fired to bring in a really bad one in Nash :lol

Good point against Durant though, I completely forgot about that. Fuck that old man.

[RC_Drunkford]

I'd rather trade for Lauri tbh

[scott]

I'd rather trade for Lauri tbh

I don't know if I was CEO of the Get Lauri club last offseason, but I was definitely on the Board of Directors... but I kind of feel like the Lauri ship is sailing. His game does fit very well offensively as a 4th option off ball shooter, but we need that guy to also be a plus defender and Lauri is an atrocious defender.

There are definitely ways to make it work from a money perspective but it will be painful and not worth it, IMO. Definitely can't see us paying $50MM/yr for an off-the-ball shooter.

RIP #LauriThread2025

[stephen jackson]

I rather get 2-3 gold role players

[djohn2oo8]

Yeah these dudes are toast

[Mr. Body]

Markkanen is one of the worst contracts in the league now.

[exstatic]

Markkanen is one of the worst contracts in the league now.

Yeah, if Danny was hoping to cash out on him high, he kinda stepped on his own dick.

[BatManu20]

Doubt KD will want to come here but crazier things have happened.

1896897602374840448

[LeBowen]

Dusty Garza is stealing our ideas, tbh.

[ginobilized]

I don't see Durant as a Spur for several reasons.
Durant's up and down attitude and dope smoking don't seem like traits the Spurs will want around Wemby.
He's too old to be part of a long-term plan and won't put us in the championship run next season.

I'd rather have Naz Reid, Rasheer Fleming and more flexibility to round out the roster.

[baseline bum]

Doubt KD will want to come here but crazier things have happened.


This would be exactly the kind of place KD would want to come: a team where he'll get a ton of credit for making them into a contender after missing the playoffs for what 7 years now. A starting lineup of Fox, Castle, Barnes, Durant, and Wemby could be pretty nasty though I suppose the rebounding could be a real problem. But there is no way I'm giving up two unprotected firsts for 37 YO Durant, especially when a lot of the Spurs firsts have unprotected swaps attached to them too, which makes them even more valuable. Sorry Phoenix, if you wanted two unprotected firsts for Durant the time to get that was the deadline.

[exstatic]

He was such an ass at the ASG, bitching at an official about a no call in a game that was OVER where his team WON.

[baseline bum]

I don't see Durant as a Spur for several reasons.
Durant's up and down attitude and dope smoking don't seem like traits the Spurs will want around Wemby.
He's too old to be part of a long-term plan and won't put us in the championship run next season.

I'd rather have Naz Reid, Rasheer Fleming and more flexibility to round out the roster.

Naz would be amazing but KD might not be a bad backup plan.

[stnick2261]

realistically, how many years does KD have left in his career? (genuinely curious)

[baseline bum]

realistically, how many years does KD have left in his career? (genuinely curious)

Probably two star level years and then a year or two of uber-skilled role player like CP3 is now.

[baseline bum]

KD is going to want something like a two year $120 million extension on top of the $54 million he makes next year. So the deal I'd be looking to make with Phoenix would be the lesser 2025 first and the matching salary of Vassell + Keldon and some seconds. I think these are the kind of deals Phoenix is going to be looking at this summer for Durant.

[Jordan Jackson]

Spurs know he likes to smoke weed and they tried to sign him anyway. Spurs always been a retirement home for former stars on their way out.

Like I mentioned earlier, he’s an expiring - so yes I would do it in order to move that awful Vassell contract.

[exstatic]

Spurs know he likes to smoke weed and they tried to sign him anyway. Spurs always been a retirement home for former stars on their way out.

Like I mentioned earlier, he’s an expiring - so yes I would do it in order to move that awful Vassell contract.

You don’t get him to be an expiring contract. You kind of plan on a short extension, so you’re not really getting off any money.

[scott]

This would be exactly the kind of place KD would want to come: a team where he'll get a ton of credit for making them into a contender after missing the playoffs for what 7 years now. A starting lineup of Fox, Castle, Barnes, Durant, and Wemby could be pretty nasty though I suppose the rebounding could be a real problem. But there is no way I'm giving up two unprotected firsts for 37 YO Durant, especially when a lot of the Spurs firsts have unprotected swaps attached to them too, which makes them even more valuable. Sorry Phoenix, if you wanted two unprotected firsts for Durant the time to get that was the deadline.

I'd send them the ATL pick this year (assuming it's not Top 4), a handful of seconds, and the bums listed in the article and that's about it for me. It's too short sighted of a move for my liking. I'd be excited for it for the 2 years it lasts, but I'd worried there aren't enough touches to go around and it results in a disgruntled Castle looking for another opportunity around the time KD is leaving. Admittedly, I have no reason to believe Castle would become disgruntled, that's just my fear. I don't think he's a diva, but I do think he's driven to be great and it is hard to do that as a 4th option.

[Dex]

Doubt KD will want to come here but crazier things have happened.

1896897602374840448

Fox News "exploring trade scenarios" is about as meaningful as me talking about it with my dumbass cat (she's more of a tennis fan anyways).

I hate that pure speculation by people completely removed the situation counts as news these days. Dude's are basically throwing shitty trades into the Trade Machine and seeing what sticks.

[baseline bum]

I'd send them the ATL pick this year (assuming it's not Top 4), a handful of seconds, and the bums listed in the article and that's about it for me. It's too short sighted of a move for my liking. I'd be excited for it for the 2 years it lasts, but I'd worried there aren't enough touches to go around and it results in a disgruntled Castle looking for another opportunity around the time KD is leaving. Admittedly, I have no reason to believe Castle would become disgruntled, that's just my fear. I don't think he's a diva, but I do think he's driven to be great and it is hard to do that as a 4th option.

Castle still gotta earn his touches, don't want to baby him like they tried with Branham. KD will age out of that featured offensive option role and by Year 3 I imagine he'll be more the spot up shooter on the perimeter living fat off Castle's drives.

[scott]

Castle still gotta earn his touches, don't want to baby him like they tried with Branham. KD will age out of that featured offensive option role and by Year 3 I imagine he'll be more the spot up shooter on the perimeter living fat off Castle's drives.

Castle is struggling to get the touches he deserves this year (until recently), and he's only had to compete against an ancient Chris Paul and Devin Vassell's masonry company for them. Would be a lot tougher when Wemby, KD and Fox are being fed.

[Chillen]

If you can get Durant no matter how old he is and he wants to play here you do it. Durant, Fox and Castle alone is good enough to make the playoffs.

[baseline bum]

Castle is struggling to get the touches he deserves this year (until recently), and he's only had to compete against an ancient Chris Paul and Devin Vassell's masonry company for them. Would be a lot tougher when Wemby, KD and Fox are being fed.

I don't see it as a problem, like I said Durant will age out of that role by Year 3 and Steph will have to sink or swim against De'Aaron for the main offensive initiator role. For me the main problem is the Spurs will have to go into luxury tax in Year 3 of Durant's deal when Wemby's likely supermax kicks in. Would be a lot cleaner if he was expiring now and the Spurs could sign him to a 2 year $150 million deal this summer instead of a 2 year $160 million extension kicking in for 26-27 and 27-28.

[baseline bum]

For me the biggest question with KD is if his Year 1 & 2 are going to be good enough to have to pay him effectively supermax for one year at age 39 while also in the luxury tax when paying Wemby the first year of his supermax deal. So you're in a bad cap situation for one year and then KD's deal comes off the books and you have the money to extend Steph.

[scott]

I don't see it as a problem, like I said Durant will age out of that role by Year 3 and Steph will have to sink or swim against De'Aaron for the main offensive initiator role. For me the main problem is the Spurs will have to go into luxury tax in Year 3 of Durant's deal when Wemby's likely supermax kicks in. Would be a lot cleaner if he was expiring now and the Spurs could sign him to a 2 year $150 million deal this summer instead of a 2 year $160 million extension kicking in for 26-27 and 27-28.

Would much rather surround Wemby/Fox/Castle with high end wings like Naz and Aldama and sitll have a stronger bench than KD and a bench of vet min guys. Having KD and Fox as your two max slots for now isn't too bad because we have the rest of our core on rookie deals - but it's not ideal, IMO.

[baseline bum]

Would much rather surround Wemby/Fox/Castle with high end wings like Naz and Aldama and sitll have a stronger bench than KD and a bench of vet min guys. Having KD and Fox as your two max slots for now isn't too bad because we have the rest of our core on rookie deals - but it's not ideal, IMO.

I'd love Naz too but don't think the Spurs are going to be in a very strong position to get him. As of now they only have $11 million or so in capspace for next year not factoring in draft picks nor whatever cap space they'll use to extend De'Aaron (don't really know how that works, are the Spurs ripping up his final year to pay 30% max?). Durant is probably gettable for cheap (at least assets wise), while Naz + Aldama probably isn't.

[baseline bum]

Would much rather surround Wemby/Fox/Castle with high end wings like Naz and Aldama and sitll have a stronger bench than KD and a bench of vet min guys. Having KD and Fox as your two max slots for now isn't too bad because we have the rest of our core on rookie deals - but it's not ideal, IMO.

Also doesn't Aldama become a RFA as soon as Memphis makes the QO?

[exstatic]

If you can get Durant no matter how old he is and he wants to play here you do it. Durant, Fox and Castle alone is good enough to make the playoffs.

Notice you didn’t include Wemby. If there’s an issue with Wembynotmaking it back next year,I don’t WANT to make the playoffs.

[scott]

I'd love Naz too but don't think the Spurs are going to be in a very strong position to get him. As of now they only have $11 million or so in capspace for next year not factoring in draft picks nor whatever cap space they'll use to extend De'Aaron (don't really know how that works, are the Spurs ripping up his final year to pay 30% max?). Durant is probably gettable for cheap (at least assets wise), while Naz + Aldama probably isn't.

I wouldn't focus on Naz and Aldama specifically. Neither may be available (I think they both get resigned by their current teams), but my point is that I'd rather add two high end 4th and 5th starters (Santi and Naz are examples of those kind of players) than an aging star like KD. Any of them will require trading though, since there won't be FA's available to accomplish this. Trading for KD kind of locks you into having KD plus some cheap guys to fill out the roster. I'm happy with a big 3 of Wemby/Fox/Castle and surrounding them with a more well rounded roster.

I wonder how much more expensive it would be to go after TMIII than KD. There might be a team out there dumb enough to drive to cost of KD up to two FRPs. Could two FRPs + Vassell get TMIII? That seems on par with a Dejounte-like haul, but TMIII isn't at the level Dejounte was at when we traded him to ATL. If the price were the same, I'd rather have TMIII than KD, even though KD is the better player, because Trey's contract leaves us flexibility to fill out the rest of the roster.

At the end of the day, however, all of this requires us to move on from Devin and Keldon, so that's a win on it's own (although the post-ASB Keldon we've been getting would actually be quite valuable... but this is just Keldon on a heater, there is no way this is sustainable)

[CGD]

Im agnostic on KD coming here. But I do think the Durant offseason is gonna be quite interesting:

— Rockets are obviously the team to watch, but even they won’t give up a lot of assets for Durant if Booker is also there.

— I think the “it’s Kevin freaking Durant!” stuff is overstated. Dude is old (37 before next season), has lost a step on D, and comes with lists of off court baggage.

— the Suns showing their hands this early is just dumb. Ensures lowball offers. Maybe they just don’t care anymore (reinforcing point about baggage).

My offer probably tops out at Devin, Barnes’s expiring, a fake FRP, and 4 SRPs

[baseline bum]

I wouldn't focus on Naz and Aldama specifically. Neither may be available (I think they both get resigned by their current teams), but my point is that I'd rather add two high end 4th and 5th starters (Santi and Naz are examples of those kind of players) than an aging star like KD. Any of them will require trading though, since there won't be FA's available to accomplish this. Trading for KD kind of locks you into having KD plus some cheap guys to fill out the roster. I'm happy with a big 3 of Wemby/Fox/Castle and surrounding them with a more well rounded roster.

I wonder how much more expensive it would be to go after TMIII than KD. There might be a team out there dumb enough to drive to cost of KD up to two FRPs. Could two FRPs + Vassell get TMIII? That seems on par with a Dejounte-like haul, but TMIII isn't at the level Dejounte was at when we traded him to ATL. If the price were the same, I'd rather have TMIII than KD, even though KD is the better player, because Trey's contract leaves us flexibility to fill out the rest of the roster.

At the end of the day, however, all of this requires us to move on from Devin and Keldon, so that's a win on it's own (although the post-ASB Keldon we've been getting would actually be quite valuable... but this is just Keldon on a heater, there is no way this is sustainable)

I'd much rather have TMIII too since he's a far better defender than Durant while being on the timeline plus like you said half the price, but I'm trying to think guys that are attainable and not just who I wish I could have. I just don't see how you're going to get two high end 4th and 5th starters for Vassell, Keldon, Sochan, and a pick or two, and Durant would be far superior to just running it back with Evin and Kelon IF the team is willing to pay luxury tax in 27-28. I really want Vassell gone.

[CGD]

In what world are we thinking NOLA is moving Trey Murphy? Was there being of gossip I missed?

[baseline bum]

Ouch scott man, what happened to TMIII's defense? I could swear he was like 85th percentile Crafted DPM just a month or so ago and now he's only 35th percentile.

https://craftednba.com/players/trey-murphy-iii

[scott]

In what world are we thinking NOLA is moving Trey Murphy? Was there being of gossip I missed?

NOP has allegedly said TMIII is untouchable, but everyone has their price. No one here thought DJM could be on the move until he was, for example.

[exstatic]

Im agnostic on KD coming here. But I do think the Durant offseason is gonna be quite interesting:

— Rockets are obviously the team to watch, but even they won’t give up a lot of assets for Durant if Booker is also there.

— I think the “it’s Kevin freaking Durant!” stuff is overstated. Dude is old (37 before next season), has lost a step on D, and comes with lists of off court baggage.

— the Suns showing their hands this early is just dumb. Ensures lowball offers. Maybe they just don’t care anymore (reinforcing point about baggage).

My offer probably tops out at Devin, Barnes’s expiring, a fake FRP, and 4 SRPs

It’s not the Suns doing. KD was pissed that they shopped him at the deadline, and has mandated a trade this summer.

[scott]

I'd much rather have TMIII too since he's a far better defender than Durant while being on the timeline plus like you said half the price, but I'm trying to think guys that are attainable and not just who I wish I could have. I just don't see how you're going to get two high end 4th and 5th starters for Vassell, Keldon, Sochan, and a pick or two, and Durant would be far superior to just running it back with Evin and Kelon IF the team is willing to pay luxury tax in 27-28. I really want Vassell gone.

I think limiting our thinking to "who we think is attainable" is kind of self-limiting. Every year, lots of guys move who weren't expected to or even known to be on the block. Also, any name I throw out are just examples. A real FO should identify the archetype, attributes and characteristics (including their contract) of the guys they want and then call every team with one of those guys and see what it would take. We can't and shouldn't just wait around for trades to fall in our laps like Fox did. There is no reason for us to not be extremely pro-active.

I actually think if you start with a basis of Vassell, Keldon, Sochan, Barnes (I'll throw him in even though I like him and I hope we retain him) and two FRPs as your currency, I think you could definitely net two very good 4th and 5th starters. Even though I am fucking sick of Devin, he still will have value to other teams. Likewise, I think Keldon doesn't have a TON of value, but as he approaches the end of his deal (only two years left after this one) he becomes more valuable - especially if he can continue to flash towards the end of the season. I don't actually want to trade Sochan unless the right deal comes along, but I think he'll certainly have value to other teams. These three guys won't have value the way Derrick White did, appealing to a playoff contender, but they'll have value to young rebuilding teams looking to shed their Cam Johnson-like players (Cam would be a high end 4th or 5th starter, IMO).

Barnes and Champ are the guys we have who I think would appeal to a playoff teams, but for different reasons. Barnes because he's capable and he's expiring next year, Champ because he's dirt cheap but might be able to give you some valuable minutes from time to time, especially in the regular season when you've got to eat up some of those minutes (these are the same reasons they'd be valuable to us, of course).

If I were GM, I'd see if I couldn't make this happen (these are examples, not my dream offseason):

- Large chunk of our MLE for a 3-year deal on Jake Laravia
- Trade Keldon and some kind of draft capital for Cam Johnson (saved BKN $10MM over two years)
- Trade Vassell and some SRPs for John Collins (primary value for us is just getting off Vassell's money). Not sure if Utah goes for this one

I'd might regret this opinion later, but I think I'd prefer that than KD and some dusty ol' vet minimum guys like who PHX currently has filling out the roster

[scott]

Ouch scott (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=150) man, what happened to TMIII's defense? I could swear he was like 85th percentile Crafted DPM just a month or so ago and now he's only 35th percentile.

https://craftednba.com/players/trey-murphy-iii

I thought he was only around 50th percentile before. Average, but not great defender. Definitely a concern, but gotta wonder how much of that is from being on a bad NOLA team?

TMIII is kind of a pipe dream... maybe Herb is really who we should be thinking about. He might better fit what we're trying to do anyway as a 5th option 3&D guy

[baseline bum]

If I were GM, I'd see if I couldn't make this happen (these are examples, not my dream offseason):

- Large chunk of our MLE for a 3-year deal on Jake Laravia
- Trade Keldon and some kind of draft capital for Cam Johnson (saved BKN $10MM over two years)
- Trade Vassell and some SRPs for John Collins (primary value for us is just getting off Vassell's money). Not sure if Utah goes for this one


What kind of draft capital are you talking for Cam? Laravia's falloff in Sac concerns me too. You sure he's just not someone who benefitted from a great system in Memphis? I'd love John Collins but you're gonna have to throw a first in to get that trade done.

[spurraider21]

I thought he was only around 50th percentile before. Average, but not great defender. Definitely a concern, but gotta wonder how much of that is from being on a bad NOLA team?

TMIII is kind of a pipe dream... maybe Herb is really who we should be thinking about. He might better fit what we're trying to do anyway as a 5th option 3&D guy
herb is coming off a down year and a season ending injury. if there was ever going to be a "buy low" opportunity, it's now

[TD 21]

Doubt KD will want to come here but crazier things have happened.

1896897602374840448

I don't think he would have up until now, but the reality is the fit and timing align and there's only so many teams who have the expendable assets to make it work and can offer him a chance to win.

He already turned down the Grizzlies, the Rockets are presumably waiting out Booker and the Thunder are about to get expensive and neither side probably wants to reunite, so my sense is it's between the Heat (no path to championship contention), Spurs, Mavericks and Timberwolves (either would be difficult due to cap issues).

[scott]

What kind of draft capital are you talking for Cam? Laravia's falloff in Sac concerns me too. You sure he's just not someone who benefitted from a great system in Memphis? I'd love John Collins but you're gonna have to throw a first in to get that trade done.

Something like swapping the ATL pick for one of their picks in the 20s for Cam. I don't think they're going to get the 2 FRPs they had hoped for. Prices seem to be coming down on trades.

Jake is getting less opportunity to SAC. Maybe it's only like 7-8MM/yr for him and then you still have a portion of the MLE left for another move. I think he's worth a flier. You only got to get to $6MM/yr to price SAC out... maybe that's enough. Or maybe Jake likes SAC and will take $5MM/yr to stay there... who knows.

[scott]

I don't think he would have up until now, but the reality is the fit and timing align and there's only so many teams who have the expendable assets to make it work and can offer him a chance to win.

He already turned down the Grizzlies, the Rockets are presumably waiting out Booker and the Thunder are about to get expensive and neither side probably wants to reunite, so my sense is it's between the Heat (no path to championship contention), Spurs, Mavericks and Timberwolves (either would be difficult due to cap issues).

Are you going to come up with a clever nickname for Wemby if he wins a ring only after KD came? Garcon Dore perhaps? Will those Spurs titles be authentic to you, or will they deserve an asterisks like you do with other teams? :lol

[TD 21]

Are you going to come up with a clever nickname for Wemby if he wins a ring only after KD came? Garcon Dore perhaps? Will those Spurs titles be authentic to you, or will they deserve an asterisks like you do with other teams? :lol

Different scenario. Durant is nowhere near his second best player in the league peak and the the Spurs aren't in the same universe as single season GOAT regular seasons teams.

They wouldn't be assured of much (probably play-in or offs), let alone a championship.

[baseline bum]

Something like swapping the ATL pick for one of their picks in the 20s for Cam. I don't think they're going to get the 2 FRPs they had hoped for. Prices seem to be coming down on trades.

Jake is getting less opportunity to SAC. Maybe it's only like 7-8MM/yr for him and then you still have a portion of the MLE left for another move. I think he's worth a flier. You only got to get to $6MM/yr to price SAC out... maybe that's enough. Or maybe Jake likes SAC and will take $5MM/yr to stay there... who knows.

I'm just worried about perfect being the enemy of good with regards to the offseason. I'd rather get our Lu Dort and Cason Wallace to flesh out the starting lineup for a few years but if that situation doesn't materialize I'd hate to pass on adding a good player like Durant and bring Vassell and Johnson back instead.

[scott]

I'm just worried about perfect being the enemy of good with regards to the offseason. I'd rather get our Lu Dort and Cason Wallace to flesh out the starting lineup for a few years but if that situation doesn't materialize I'd hate to pass on adding a good player like Durant and bring Vassell and Johnson back instead.

We're in total agreement there! And to be clear, I'm not against KD, it's just not my preferred route. I'm really counting on Brian to look alive this offseason. I'm sure we'll be disappointed and find out later we're still being patient and not skipping any steps. Need 2 years for Devin and Keldon to acclimate to Fox and for Castle to get over himself.

[Strategic]

Although I would laugh if it happened, I don’t see the Thunder giving up much for KD. Now if Dagnault gets his ass handed to him in the playoffs like he did last year when he went with Giddy over Wallace and Wiggins, their FO may get embarrassed enough to make a move for KD. Or they could just move on from Dagnault.

[BatManu20]

1897737200235930044

[z0sa]

Kevin Durant is one of Wemby’s idols. It might not be the cleanest fit or best move financially but it does likely make Wemby happy learning from him every day.

[CGD]

^ Hopefully someone else overpays for him.

[rjv]

^ hopefully, it's houston.

[The Truth #6]

Wherever he goes, chaos follows. Nah, I'm good.

[LeBowen]

I don't want him because he's a spineless coward, tbh.
Every time things get rough he checks out. Not the kind of character we need from our veterans.

[spurraider21]

as a reminder, Amico is the shit one. Amick is the reputable one


1897737200235930044

[cd98]

Wherever he goes, chaos follows. Nah, I'm good.

That has proven true since his last season with the GSW. Wemby has yet to show us he can play a full compliment of games at 30+ minutes a game. We don't know if he will hold up. I hope he does. But I'd be careful about going all-in on a guy that will require a bunch of our firsts for maybe two seasons of being a mediocre all-star at the end of his career. And while I liked KD in his prime and felt he was a top 2 player with Lebron, I think his descent into mediocrity will be much faster than Lebron, who is still playing at a high level into 40.

[td4mvp2k]

hell no guy is the anti-spur

[baseline bum]

That has proven true since his last season with the GSW. Wemby has yet to show us he can play a full compliment of games at 30+ minutes a game. We don't know if he will hold up. I hope he does. But I'd be careful about going all-in on a guy that will require a bunch of our firsts for maybe two seasons of being a mediocre all-star at the end of his career. And while I liked KD in his prime and felt he was a top 2 player with Lebron, I think his descent into mediocrity will be much faster than Lebron, who is still playing at a high level into 40.

You're overestimating Durant's trade value. When selling this summer Phoenix will be lucky to get 20 cents on the dollar of what they paid for him. I wouldn't be surprised if the lesser 2025, Vassell, and matching salary (probably Keldon) would be enough to get a deal done. To me the question isn't whether you should trade for him, but instead whether he's worth paying. Especially when a two year $120 million extension would almost certainly put the Spurs pretty deep in the luxury tax for a year in 27-28 when Wemby's likely supermax would start. To me it's a question of if you're willing to pay hefty luxury tax for a year to flip Vassell into something useful.

[CGD]

You're overestimating Durant's trade value. When selling this summer Phoenix will be lucky to get 20 cents on the dollar of what they paid for him. I wouldn't be surprised if the lesser 2025, Vassell, and matching salary (probably Keldon) would be enough to get a deal done. To me the question isn't whether you should trade for him, but instead whether he's worth paying. Especially when a two year $120 million extension would almost certainly put the Spurs pretty deep in the luxury tax for a year in 27-28 when Wemby's likely supermax would start. To me it's a question of if you're willing to pay hefty luxury tax for a year to flip Vassell into something useful.

+ 1 to this spot on analysis.

That’s what I’m thinking the top Spurs offer for Durant would be, as well. I’m loath to pay his extension, on top of a big number for Fox (who has left me cold tbh).

[benefactor]

I wasn't sure about doing this at first, but in thinking about it I think Durant is the perfect plug and play star at the end of his career that the Spurs could use. I think his talent and that usefulness outweighs concerns about character. It's a two and a half or three year window that could pay off big and you really don't lose much if it doesn't. Worst case scenario is Wemby gets a couple seasons of good playoff experience building into the next step of his development. It's doubtful the Spurs are going to be good enough to win the West over the next couple seasons anyway no matter what they do.

[Kevin]

If it doesn’t cost Castle maybe.

Barnes and KJ for matching salary and maybe Sochan and two picks. KD turns 37 next season.

[Joseph Kony]

Victor/Durant/Fox/Castle is theoretically a really nice big 4 and they all fit well with little overlap. they would still need a legit 3/D wing to be real contenders though

[benefactor]

If it doesn’t cost Castle maybe.

Barnes and KJ for matching salary and maybe Sochan and two picks. KD turns 37 next season.
Why would it cost Castle:lol

[benefactor]

Victor/Durant/Fox/Castle is theoretically a really nice big 4 and they all fit well with little overlap. they would still need a legit 3/D wing to be real contenders though
I feel like it's not as much about being contenders as it is taking steps towards being contenders. Durant theoretically bridges that gap. And who knows, maybe Durant comes back in the twilight of his career on a team friendly deal as an elite role player. I'm not saying that's likely to happen but you never know.

[RC_Drunkford]

I‘m pretty sure KD doesn‘t want to go to a team that is waiting on their 76-year old headcoach coming back from a stroke to coach again

[Seventyniner]

You're overestimating Durant's trade value. When selling this summer Phoenix will be lucky to get 20 cents on the dollar of what they paid for him. I wouldn't be surprised if the lesser 2025, Vassell, and matching salary (probably Keldon) would be enough to get a deal done. To me the question isn't whether you should trade for him, but instead whether he's worth paying. Especially when a two year $120 million extension would almost certainly put the Spurs pretty deep in the luxury tax for a year in 27-28 when Wemby's likely supermax would start. To me it's a question of if you're willing to pay hefty luxury tax for a year to flip Vassell into something useful.

I agree that Durant's trade value is overestimated by many, but why would the Suns trade him for Vassell/Keldon/one FRP when that means they have to take on 3 extra years of Vassell's contract? Wouldn't they be better off just letting KD roll off the books or taking on shorter term contracts? Booker/Beal/Vassell is a rather awkward fit anyway.

Or do you mean that KD is basically forcing his way out and the Suns need to get a deal done no matter what?

[scott]

I agree that Durant's trade value is overestimated by many, but why would the Suns trade him for Vassell/Keldon/one FRP when that means they have to take on 3 extra years of Vassell's contract? Wouldn't they be better off just letting KD roll off the books or taking on shorter term contracts? Booker/Beal/Vassell is a rather awkward fit anyway.

Or do you mean that KD is basically forcing his way out and the Suns need to get a deal done no matter what?

Underrated point here, and why the MIN talk makes a lot of sense if the teams can find a way to make it work salary wise and center it around Randle's player option. The trade machines aren't updated for Off-Season mode yet, so it's hard to see how these teams make it work though as they're both currently above the 2nd Apron. I'm fascinated by all these teams (PHX, DAL, PHI) who have completely tied a noose around their own balls.

[baseline bum]

I agree that Durant's trade value is overestimated by many, but why would the Suns trade him for Vassell/Keldon/one FRP when that means they have to take on 3 extra years of Vassell's contract? Wouldn't they be better off just letting KD roll off the books or taking on shorter term contracts? Booker/Beal/Vassell is a rather awkward fit anyway.

Or do you mean that KD is basically forcing his way out and the Suns need to get a deal done no matter what?

This. Durant's basically forcing his way out and is using the Suns trying to trade him to Golden State as his reason. Maybe they're willing to extend Randle at $50 million a year if they can figure a way to legally do the trade but otherwise their options are gonna be kind of slim and Durant is 100% out of there.

[baseline bum]

If it doesn’t cost Castle maybe.

Barnes and KJ for matching salary and maybe Sochan and two picks. KD turns 37 next season.

Spurs wouldn't give Castle for a 27 year-old Fox, no way in hell they're giving him up for a 37 year-old Durant.

[baseline bum]

I feel like it's not as much about being contenders as it is taking steps towards being contenders. Durant theoretically bridges that gap. And who knows, maybe Durant comes back in the twilight of his career on a team friendly deal as an elite role player. I'm not saying that's likely to happen but you never know.

KD has one year left on his deal at around $54 million IIRC and probably wants a two year max extension, so that's the twilight of his career at superstar pay. The money is the real concern I have with Durant. I feel like that's the biggest opportunity cost unless say Naz tells the Wolves send me out in a sign and trade or I walk this summer. Maybe the front office pulls a rabbit out of a hat and can get guys like Reid or Aldama but they don't have a very strong hand to go after good young players without any capspace whereas I could see KD being excited to come play with Wemby and you know Victor would be thrilled.

[mo7888]

You're overestimating Durant's trade value. When selling this summer Phoenix will be lucky to get 20 cents on the dollar of what they paid for him. I wouldn't be surprised if the lesser 2025, Vassell, and matching salary (probably Keldon) would be enough to get a deal done. To me the question isn't whether you should trade for him, but instead whether he's worth paying. Especially when a two year $120 million extension would almost certainly put the Spurs pretty deep in the luxury tax for a year in 27-28 when Wemby's likely supermax would start. To me it's a question of if you're willing to pay hefty luxury tax for a year to flip Vassell into something useful.

Perfect analysis

[The Truth #6]

Now that Brian Wright has already scored a big trade victory with Fox, and with the salary reality that we can't really afford three max players, because no one can, I can't see why we're even entertaining throwing around a lot more money on someone who may actually be a stage 4 cancer. I think Wright is better suited to his natural vibe anyway, which is working on the edges and grabbing useful less important players who get squeezed out of win-now team constructions when those teams collapse and pivot to tanking.

Kyle Anderson
Luke Kennard
The Guy Who Looks Like Ted Cruz

Just throwing out player calibers that come to mind...

[spursparker9]

For vet min I am okay.

Trade for 38 years old KD? No fucking way. Not even giving away Vasell and KJ

[baseline bum]

For vet min I am okay.

Trade for 38 years old KD? No fucking way. Not even giving away Vasell and KJ

Current 36 year old KD has a true shooting percentage 10 points better than Vassell and is a roughly league average defender, while Vassell is dogshit on a stick defensively. It would be an enormous upgrade to the starting lineup. Not saying it should be the Spurs first choice since his contract would be expensive as hell and it would only be a move for the next three years, but it would be a very serious upgrade to the roster. Might even give you enough shooting to be able to start Sochan again.

[timtonymanu]

lol I don’t want to overpay for KD either but trading Vassell and Keldon for him is a no brainer as long as you’re keeping the core 3 of Wemby, Fox and Castle.

Like holy shit some of you want the spurs to continue being a crappy team.

[kht]

1897737200235930044


Mavs are a dumpster fire lol. Does KD want to be in Lebron's and Luka's shadow? Spurs make the most sense. KD is plug-and-play.

[spurraider21]

lol I don’t want to overpay for KD either but trading Vassell and Keldon for him is a no brainer as long as you’re keeping the core 3 of Wemby, Fox and Castle.

Like holy shit some of you want the spurs to continue being a crappy team.
im more worried about the pick package needed. if they are going to want 2 firsts + vassell/keldon or whatever, then its not worth for KD at his age. not for us, anyway.

[venitian navigator]

No picks 4 kd...makes no sense gor a 37 year old...hes not LeBron and that means he has a max range of 3 years of very good tò good tò Just ok Playtime. The point Is that his salary Is so High that DV and KJ (or HB) Need in any case tò be included in the trade. Imho the max offer then could be DV KJ plus Bassey and Braham 4 youth claims (plus in case some second round picks). Nothing more ..

[RC_Drunkford]

This is how the conversation will go in the offseason:

Brian Wright: "Hey KD, wanna join the Spurs?"

KD: "Sure, who's the headcoach?"

Brian Wright: "Well Pop is trying to come back from a stroke"

KD: "So is Pop coaching this season?"

Brian Wright: "if he gets back to a 100% yes"

KD: "What if he doesn't?"

Brian Wright: "Then it's Mitch"

KD: "Let me talk to Mitch"

KD: "So Mitch, if I join the Spurs, what would the starting line up look like?"

Mitch: "Well it's a rubik cube that I need to figure out."

KD: "...."

Mitch: "Kevin, are you there?"

[mo7888]

Current 36 year old KD has a true shooting percentage 10 points better than Vassell and is a roughly league average defender, while Vassell is dogshit on a stick defensively. It would be an enormous upgrade to the starting lineup. Not saying it should be the Spurs first choice since his contract would be expensive as hell and it would only be a move for the next three years, but it would be a very serious upgrade to the roster. Might even give you enough shooting to be able to start Sochan again.

If Castle can raise his shooting percentage to league average from 3 then Sochan alongside KD would be pretty dangerous on both ends.

[John B]

I can see KD helping CP3 get his 1st ring, on top of putting the Spurs back to being a contender after missing the playoff for so long. It’s the most ideal place for him to land. The problem is what is the haul the FO would be willing to give up to hire KD’s services for two years? Personally I hate giving FRP’s which the Spurs can continually use in the future to backup Wemby’s contending years. And as much as people hate Keldon and Vassell, they are potentially great role players behind Wemby, Fox, Castle and whoever potential high 2025 pick. I think it depends this coming draft which picks the ping pong balls would grant the Spurs. I’d say if one is top 4, then I seriously wouldn’t trade for KD’s short services for such high a price.

[KobesAchilles]

Downside of signing KD. I’d have to cheer for him despite his constant stupid remarks. But I guess that’s a good thing seeing as booing was invented in 1970…

Upside: literally everything else. KD has never whined about touches. He’s never whined about working hard or being coached hard. He’s never whined that the offense isn’t suited for him but rather the opposite. He suits the offense. He wouldn’t have to be a leader on this team. He is 6’10 and a better shooter, scorer, ball handler, passer, and defender than Vassell. Having KD on the team means we can actually start Sochan without the offense struggling in any shape or form. And a front court of Wemby, KD, and Sochan would be formidable defensively.

Also KD would take the time to actually teach Wemby his bag of moves. He gets general pleasure from doing that with younger players. And if Wemby does get hurt again, we have an actual go to scorer to replace him for a bit. I see zero downside to get Durant for 2 cheap FRPs

[baseline bum]

im more worried about the pick package needed. if they are going to want 2 firsts + vassell/keldon or whatever, then its not worth for KD at his age. not for us, anyway.

Yeah 37YO Durant at $54 million next season then $60 million a year the two after isn't worth two firsts to the Spurs. That would be Phoenix thinking they could get the similar value for Durant that they could have at the deadline but for a player that old the missed 2025 playoff run costs a lot towards his trade value. Only first I'm offering is the lesser 2025, or forget it if somehow both picks end up top 4 (can't imagine the Suns taking the 29 or the 32). All the other firsts the Spurs own up to 2031 other than the 2029 have juicy swaps attached and those only become available when big game hunting, like if Ant or Jokic or Tatum or someone at that level forced a trade.

[scott]

Other upside of KD coming here:

He'd create burner Twitter accounts and go after the clowns in our local media and dumb Spurs fans. Maybe we'd get lucky and he'd even create a SpursTalk burner. Who will be his Anti-Avatar? He might beat LeBowen to the punch and have an Anti-Mitch first.

[LeBowen]

Other upside of KD coming here:

He'd create burner Twitter accounts and go after the clowns in our local media and dumb Spurs fans. Maybe we'd get lucky and he'd even create a SpursTalk burner. Who will be his Anti-Avatar? He might beat LeBowen (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=54457) to the punch and have an Anti-Mitch first.

:lol

Imagine KD and mr. Body arguments. :lmao

[BacktoBasics]

This guy hasn't won shit anywhere in ages. I wouldn't give up two firsts for this guy. He's got maybe a year left of being impactful... if you can even call it that.

[timtonymanu]

im more worried about the pick package needed. if they are going to want 2 firsts + vassell/keldon or whatever, then its not worth for KD at his age. not for us, anyway.

Well yeah if picks are involved then I say no too, but a straight up Vassell and Keldon swap, Son of a bitch I’m in.

[ginobilized]

If we don't land KD, I hope that we could facilitate/exploit the Mavs/Suns trades that are bound to happen this summer.
Who knows, maybe we can get PJ Washington or Bol Bol for nothing? Lightning could strike twice.

[Frenchfred]

If KD is willing to take a pay cut for his next contract like 35-40 millions a year, why not. 60 is too much considering his age and the fact that we’ll have Fox and Wemby getting a max.

[ducks]

KD is going to want something like a two year $120 million extension on top of the $54 million he makes next year. So the deal I'd be looking to make with Phoenix would be the lesser 2025 first and the matching salary of Vassell + Keldon and some seconds. I think these are the kind of deals Phoenix is going to be looking at this summer for Durant.

Way to much
Let him go to Cavs !

[spurraider21]

1899191832959205560

[Guru of Nothing]

Nope.

[scott]

1899191832959205560

You know... I think there about 6-12 GMs in the NBA dumb enough to pay this kind of price. Of all the potential criticisms one could have our FO... this isn't one of them. Brian Wright has proven to be an adept asset manager.

[LeBowen]

You know... I think there about 6-12 GMs in the NBA dumb enough to pay this kind of price. Of all the potential criticisms one could have our FO... this isn't one of them. Brian Wright has proven to be an adept asset manager.

It all depends on the quality of those picks.
Suns just traded away their unprotected 20131 FRP for 3 garbage FRPs and the only thing they did was trading away one of those garbage picks to get rid of Nurkic.

Three FRPs in 25-30 range aren't worth that much. With the new salary cap one can argue that early SRPs are more valuable than late FRPs.

[cd98]

He will be 37 by the time the season starts next year. Has there ever been a 37-year old player traded for 3 first round picks and a young player?

[LeBowen]

He will be 37 by the time the season starts next year. Has there ever been a 37-year old player traded for 3 first round picks and a young player?

Has a 37 year old averaging 27ppg ever been traded?

I'd offer them Devin, Keldon, one lottery protected FRP and a bunch of seconds.

[scott]

It all depends on the quality of those picks.
Suns just traded away their unprotected 20131 FRP for 3 garbage FRPs and the only thing they did was trading away one of those garbage picks to get rid of Nurkic.

Three FRPs in 25-30 range aren't worth that much. With the new salary cap one can argue that early SRPs are more valuable than late FRPs.

The kinds of teams who trade multiple FRPs for aging stars, tend to be the kinds of teams whose "garbage picks" end up becoming quite valuable. The Suns probably thought they were sending out garbage picks when they got Durant in the first place :lol

[CGD]

If KD drives down his own value ala Fox, only then would I entertain a package involving anything more that one FRP+Vassell/filler. And even then I'm not renegotiating for over 3yrs/100M.

[baseline bum]

1899191832959205560

I wanna fuck Angie Dickenson. Let's see who gets lucky first.

[baseline bum]

You know... I think there about 6-12 GMs in the NBA dumb enough to pay this kind of price. Of all the potential criticisms one could have our FO... this isn't one of them. Brian Wright has proven to be an adept asset manager.

No one is going to pay three FRP plus another good player for Durant's old ass. The Suns can say they want 3 FRP and a player but that shit ain't happening. It would be like putting my PS5 with stick drift up on ebay and asking $1200.

[scott]

No one is going to pay three FRP plus another good player for Durant's old ass. The Suns can say they want 3 FRP and a player but that shit ain't happening. It would be like putting my PS5 with stick drift up on ebay and asking $1200.

Nico Harrison is DM’ing to ask if you’ll take $1150

[baseline bum]

Nico Harrison is DM’ing to ask if you’ll take $1150

IDK think he needs to throw in a $200 Steam card to get me to bite.

[Ocotillo]

I wanna fuck Angie Dickenson. Let's see who gets lucky first.

Dude, is she even alive? :lol

[Dejounte]

I don’t trust any “asking price” that’s being reported any longer. I’d gladly give up Vassell and one 1st for Durant. They will take it.

[baseline bum]

Dude, is she even alive? :lol

Look at her like that. Mariolina. Gave me my first handjob, me and Vincent Minnescalco in the alley behind the chicken market. God, what am I saying at this poor woman's wake?

[djohn2oo8]

The Suns are beyond stupid.

[Ice009]

Does someone have a direct link to the tweet? I can't view it.

[djohn2oo8]

1899466154009067824

[Joseph Kony]

Does someone have a direct link to the tweet? I can't view it.

The Phoenix Suns could receive four first-round picks and a rising star in a potential trade package for Devin Booker, per @DuaneRankin (https://x.com/DuaneRankin)
“Sources informed The Republic the Suns could probably get four first round picks for Booker and a rising star in his third or fourth year.”

edit: that was the one djohn posted (i cant view them for some reason either)

the one sr21 posted on the previous page:


The Phoenix Suns would likely seek three first-round picks and a young player in any trade involving Kevin Durant this offseason, per @DuaneRankin (https://x.com/DuaneRankin)
“Sources informed The Republic the most ideal return on a Durant trade is regaining three first-round picks and a young player as part of a multi-team deal tied to getting under the second apron.”

[baseline bum]

1899466154009067824

They really do need to just fucking pull the bandage off and trade Booker. Washington's 2026 swap with them is top 9 protected so they could get their two swaps in 2025 and 2029, their 2027 pick back, probably another first, and maybe someone like Jabari Smith plus crap matching salary and then tank for Dybantsa or Boozer. Then see what they can get for Durant. Let Beal be tank commander for not waiving his no-trade clause. :lol

[baseline bum]

I don’t trust any “asking price” that’s being reported any longer. I’d gladly give up Vassell and one 1st for Durant. They will take it.

Would need to throw in Kelon for matching salary

[ambchang]

If I’m Phoenix I trade booker for 4+1 and Durant for 2+1 without batting an eyelash. I mean come on! You immediately get draft picks to replenish your youth. It’s a no brainer. If you can do a deal for Houston even better

[scott]

1899466154009067824

“Sources say a team could get X return for player Y” is perhaps the worst form of a scoop I can imagine.

Unless the sources are a team willing to give that up… it’s completely meaningless.

”The Spurs could get 3 FRPs for Malaki Branham, according to a guy with bad opinions”

[Dex]

“Sources say a team could get X return for player Y” is perhaps the worst form of a scoop I can imagine.

Unless the sources are a team willing to give that up… it’s completely meaningless.

”The Spurs could get 3 FRPs for Malaki Branham, according to a guy with bad opinions”

My best friend's sister's boyfriend's brother's girlfriend heard from this guy who knows this kid who's going with the girl who said that the Spurs are going to trade Jordan McLaughlin for Nikola Jokic. Must be pretty serious....

[OldMan88]

I wanna fuck Angie Dickenson. Let's see who gets lucky first.

Damn, she’s 93…. Give her a ring. She might give you a “gummer”.

[mo7888]

They really do need to just fucking pull the bandage off and trade Booker. Washington's 2026 swap with them is top 9 protected so they could get their two swaps in 2025 and 2029, their 2027 pick back, probably another first, and maybe someone like Jabari Smith plus crap matching salary and then tank for Dybantsa or Boozer. Then see what they can get for Durant. Let Beal be tank commander for not waiving his no-trade clause. :lol

They should do just that. I'd be interested in making it a 3 team trade and getting Jabari, KD, or both.

[baseline bum]

They should do just that. I'd be interested in making it a 3 team trade and getting Jabari, KD, or both.

I was wrong on one thing turns out: they can't tank because even though Washington only gets it if 10-30, a couple other teams can swap for the pick at 1-9. What a clusterfuck. Still not as bad as Dallas though. :lol

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I’d love to see Durant finish his career in San Antonio, but not for what the Suns are asking for him. He and Draymond both played well for Pop in the Olympics. I actually had a little newfound respect for DG in that tourney.

The Spurs need to strengthen the roster this summer so I’ll be interested to see who’s wearing the silver and black next year.

[cd98]

How good can Durant and Booker be if they can't get the Suns into the playoffs?

[John B]

How good can Durant and Booker be if they can't get the Suns into the playoffs?

But imagine next to Wemby…

[Mal]

How good can Durant and Booker be if they can't get the Suns into the playoffs?

I would still like Durant as 2nd/3rd option, but not for 50 mil per year.

I would do Vassell + Barnes for Durant, with extension in range 50 mil / 2 years after next season. 40 yo Durant will still be deadly shooter.

[spurraider21]

i understand durant is quite old, but he's still playing at an all-nba level. he's still 6th in the leauge in scoring, is playing 37mpg, with an easy 50/40/80 season.

the idea that you're getting him without sending back picks is unrealistic. if vassell was an all star level player i think it would be a different conversation about sending him + salary for KD, but he's not

[Ice009]

i understand durant is quite old, but he's still playing at an all-nba level. he's still 6th in the leauge in scoring, is playing 37mpg, with an easy 50/40/80 season.

the idea that you're getting him without sending back picks is unrealistic. if vassell was an all star level player i think it would be a different conversation about sending him + salary for KD, but he's not

Yeah, but if Devin was an All-Star level players, I don't think many of us would want to trade him for an older KD. If Devin was actually at that level, I'm sure most of us would rather keep him even if he wasn't quite as good as Durant due to the age gap.

As it is, Devin isn't very good, and it's now a choice between taking a gamble on an older KD and also giving up draft picks for it. Not sure how worth it that is. If KD was younger in both scenarios, I'd do it, but due to his age, it makes it a tougher decision. I'm impressed with how well he's playing, though.

[spurraider21]

Yeah, but if Devin was an All-Star level players, I don't think many of us would want to trade him for an older KD. If Devin was actually at that level, I'm sure most of us would rather keep him even if he wasn't quite as good as Durant due to the age gap.

As it is, Devin isn't very good, and it's now a choice between taking a gamble on an older KD and also giving up draft picks for it. Not sure how worth it that is. If KD was younger in both scenarios, I'd do it, but due to his age, it makes it a tougher decision. I'm impressed with how well he's playing, though.
the thing about trades, especially one for KD level players, is that to get something you want you may have to give something you dont want

fwiw i've been against the durant trade because i dont think its worth for us to send picks to get him when the team isnt really in a "win now" position at this time. not with this skeleton roster, and not with this coaching staff