NBA Trade Buzz: Spurs Stay the Course, Jazz Weigh Options, and Saddiq Bey Draws Interest
As the NBA season heats up, so does the trade chatter - and while some teams are eyeing blockbuster moves, others are playing the long game. Let’s break down where things stand with a few key franchises heading into the heart of the season.
Spurs: Staying Patient, But Not Passive
The San Antonio Spurs have turned heads early this season, jumping out to a 21-7 start and making a run all the way to the NBA Cup championship game. It’s a strong statement from a young team that’s clearly ahead of schedule. But don’t expect the Spurs to suddenly shift gears and mortgage the future for a big splash.
According to league sources, San Antonio remains focused on internal development. That means continuing to build around their promising young core without sacrificing long-term flexibility. One source put it plainly: “They’re not going to sit around being satisfied, but I don’t see them making a move like trading for Giannis.”
Still, rival teams are keeping an eye on San Antonio’s situation - because with their asset pool, the Spurs could make a move if the right opportunity came along. Think less “superstar swing” and more “perfect-fit piece.” One executive floated the idea of a move similar to Orlando’s acquisition of Desmond Bane - a calculated addition that fits the timeline and complements the core.
Names like Trey Murphy III have come up in that context - a young, high-upside wing who could grow with the group. The Spurs aren’t actively shopping, but they’re not closing the door on the right kind of deal either.
Bucks: Giannis Staying Put - For Now
Any time Giannis Antetokounmpo’s name surfaces in trade rumors, the league takes notice. But for now, Milwaukee continues to signal that it’s committed to building around its franchise cornerstone, not moving him.
That hasn’t stopped Eastern Conference teams from keeping tabs. The Heat, Knicks, Hawks, and Raptors are among those who would be aggressive if the situation ever changed.
That said, there’s skepticism around how ready some of those teams are to make a serious push. For instance, the Knicks reportedly aren’t eager to disrupt their current roster midseason, and the Hawks have shown no interest in including rising star Jalen Johnson in any talks.
Bottom line: Giannis isn’t on the move - but the league is watching closely, just in case the winds shift.
Jazz: Balancing Patience with Progress
Utah’s front office is walking a tightrope between building for the future and establishing a winning culture now.
Retaining their top-eight-protected 2026 first-round pick remains a priority, but they’re also looking to create a competitive environment sooner rather than later. That’s a tricky balance, and it’s shaping how they approach the trade market.
Internally, the Jazz see Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, and Walker Kessler as foundational pieces. Around them, there’s some flexibility. Veterans like Kyle Anderson, Jusuf Nurkic, Kevin Love, and Georges Niang are all considered potential trade candidates as the deadline nears.
Through it all, one thing remains steady: the organization’s belief in head coach Will Hardy. Management and ownership continue to view him as the right leader for this evolving group.
Pelicans: Saddiq Bey Drawing Eyes
After missing last season with a torn ACL, Saddiq Bey has bounced back in a big way - and teams around the league are taking notice.
The Pelicans forward is averaging 15.0 points and 6.1 rebounds in just under 30 minutes per game across 29 appearances, including 21 starts. That kind of production, paired with his size, versatility, and now-proven health, makes him an appealing target for teams looking to bolster their wing depth.
As the trade deadline approaches, players like Bey - young, productive, and on the rise - often become hot commodities. If the Pelicans decide to explore the market, they’ll likely have no shortage of suitors.
What to Watch Moving Forward
With the trade deadline creeping closer, teams are starting to show their hands. Some, like the Spurs and Jazz, are playing the long game with a focus on development. Others are keeping their options open, waiting for the right moment to strike.
And then there are the wild cards - players like Saddiq Bey who could shift the balance for a contender looking to make a run.
The deals may not be flying yet, but the groundwork is being laid. In the NBA, sometimes the quietest teams are just waiting for the right time to make the loudest moves.