As the Spurs contemplate their strategy for utilizing their two top 10 picks in the upcoming NBA Draft, speculation continues about potential teammates for franchise star Victor Wembanyama.
The team has been previously linked to Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young and former Spurs point guard Dejounte Murray. However, another point guard is now gaining more attention.
According to the sports betting website Bookies.com, the San Antonio Spurs have emerged as the favorites to acquire Cleveland Cavaliers veteran guard Darius Garland.
Garland, who was an NBA All-Star in 2022, recently exited the playoffs after the Cavaliers lost their Eastern Conference semi-final series to the Boston Celtics.
Since then, media reports suggest that the Cavaliers might be poised for significant changes, with either Garland or fellow All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell potentially not returning next season.
Mitchell, a potential free agent, is reportedly seeking a new max contract and long-term extension this off-season. If this happens, Garland might request a trade, as he could be the team’s most valuable trade asset.
Garland, 25, recently completed his fifth season with the Cavaliers, averaging 18.0 points and 6.5 assists in 57 games affected by injuries. These numbers were down from his All-Star season, where he averaged 21.7 points and 8.8 assists per game.
The Spurs, with an abundance of future draft picks and two top 10 picks (No. 4 and No. 8) in the upcoming NBA Draft, would be a highly attractive trade partner.
Garland, a true point guard, has demonstrated the ability to play both on and off the ball during his NBA career, making him a suitable fit alongside Wembanyama. He has four years remaining on his current contract.
One of the Spurs’ primary goals this off-season is to improve their shooting and spacing. Garland, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 38%, would help achieve this objective.
Other teams reportedly interested in Garland include the New Orleans Pelicans, Toronto Raptors, and Phoenix Suns.
