NBA – Spurs in ambush in a surprising case… with a bigger idea in mind?

Par Pierre-Andréa Fraile | Journaliste sportif

Once again mere spectators in the playoffs, the Spurs are planning to attract some heavyweight talent this summer, with a view to taking part next year. Their recruitment could also include a more surprising arrival… but one that could be part of a wider strategy.

Certainly, their project is focused on the long term. Sure, they’ve moved up one spot in the Western Conference standings from last year. And they’ve won twelve more games than in the 2023-24 season. But despite all these encouraging factors, the Spurs can’t be satisfied with the campaign they’ve just delivered, which ended in 13th place (34-48) and therefore without playoff qualification.

With a competitor like Victor Wembanyama in its ranks, it’s impossible for the franchise to be satisfied with such minimal progress from one year to the next. Having already recruited De’Aaron Fox during the season, the team will have to hit the market again this summer to improve its squad. Potentially via a major acquisition, but also via less flashy, even surprising moves.

Spurs ready for an unexpected move… to seduce Giannis?

For weeks now, San Antonio has appeared to be one of the most plausible landing spots for Giannis Antetokounmpo in the event of his departure. Most of the experts have been feeding the issue ever since the Draft Lottery and its relatively favorable scenario for the Texans. But in addition to the Greek Freak, the Texans are announced by Bovada as one of the favorites to get… Thanasis Antetokounmpo:

• Houston Rockets : +400

• San Antonio Spurs : +600

• Brooklyn Nets : +800

• Golden State Warriors : +900

• Cleveland Cavaliers : +1200

• New York Knicks : +1400

As some will have noticed, American bookmakers expect Giannis’ eldest son, who has been a free agent for almost a year, to join one of the teams coveting the two-time MVP. This wouldn’t come as much of a surprise, given that Thanasis has spent the majority of his career playing alongside his younger brother. No wonder, then, that the Spurs are so high on this list.

Internet users have made no mistake, weaving a link between this case and that of the Greek winger-star:

@Rockets_Enjoyer: It’s literally just the teams that are rumored to be recruiting Giannis 😭

@KlawedUP: Whoever gets Thanasis will get Giannis.

@KevonLooneyMuse : Go for Thanasis to attract Giannis to your team. Smart move