Spurs Reportedly Haven't Had 'Substantive' Talks on Giannis Trade amid Durant Rumors

The San Antonio Spurs were named as a preferred trade destination for Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant, but it sounds like they're out of the running for another star player.

According to ESPN's Michael C. Wright, the Spurs "haven't held any substantive discussions regarding" a trade for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The Spurs would be in a prime position to acquire a star player this offseason thanks to their bevy of assets, including the No. 2 pick in this month's NBA draft. Wright noted that San Antonio has been "fielding inquiries from teams looking to trade up," but the team doesn't appear to be interested in giving up the pick or any young players.

Even after The Athletic's Sam Amick and Jon Krawczynski reported that Durant prefers to be traded to the Spurs over other interested teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat and Houston Rockets, Wright noted that "Phoenix's asking price might be too steep for a franchise looking to remain cautious."

San Antonio has one of the most talented young cores in the league, led by the last two NBA Rookie of the Year winners, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. The team is widely expected to use the No. 2 pick to select highly-touted Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, creating even more optimism for a bright future following six straight years without a playoff appearance.

Adding a superstar like Antetokounmpo or Durant would certainly accelerate the Spurs' timeline to return to title contention, but it appears that the franchise is willing to remain patient as its young players develop rather than blowing things up to acquire an aging veteran.