NBA Rumors: Spurs linked to an all-star and starter as potential trade targets

Gregg Popovich, Victor Wembanyama
Gregg Popovich, Victor Wembanyama | Gregory Shamus/GettyImages

It appears as though the San Antonio Spurs' roster is all but complete after making several offseason moves and filling their 15-man roster. However, their offseason could have been much different had they been able to snag either of their two rumored trade targets.

According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Spurs were interested in Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard as well as Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star point guard Darius Garland. Nembhard just re-signed with the Pacers on a 3-year, $59 million deal, while Garland is apparently off the trade market at the moment.

Meanwhile, the Spurs signed future Hall of Famer Chris Paul to be their short-term answer at point guard. That doesn't preclude them from pursuing Nembhard or Garland in the future, however.

Will the San Antonio Spurs continue to pursue Andrew Nembhard and Darius Garland?

Fischer states that the Spurs may continue to pursue Nembhard and, presumably, Garland, even though neither are available at the moment. San Antonio may circle back around at the trade deadline or even next summer to check on the availability of Nembhard and Garland with the Pacers and Cavs in the hopes of upgrading their roster further. 

Depending on how well the Spurs season goes, the 2025 NBA draft might be another way they look to fill the role of starting point guard in the long term. It should be noted that the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, and Charlotte Hornets all owe a first-round pick to San Antonio in next year's draft in some form. Giving them more options to either draft a play maker or make an offer that would entice the Pacers or Cavs.

All in all, the Spurs were active this offseason, looking to improve upon their weakness at point guard. Although they may have struck out on Nembhard and Garland, at least temporarily, they did manage to land Paul, and he should help them tremendously next season.