3 potential trades between the Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs

Phoenix Suns acquire Jakob Poeltl for Torrey Craig, Bismack Biyombo, Jock Landale and a lottery protected 2023 first-round pick.

After being dealt to the Spurs in the Kawhi Leonard deal in 2018, big man Jakob Poeltl has carved out a nice career for himself as a genuine rim protector. The Austrian had a career-best year in 2021-22, averaging 13.5 points, 9.3 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game.

Why would the Suns do it?

Deandre Ayton is the unequivocal starting center, but behind him there’s no definite backup center the Suns can trust in. Biyombo was solid last season but remains a question mark over 82 games, while Landale is a relative unknown after just one year in the league.

Poeltl also shapes as a fantastic insurance policy if the franchise can’t completely repair their relationship with Ayton. Alternatively, perhaps the Suns put Ayton in a trade package for Kevin Durant should he again become available.

Getting Poeltl for three players at the end of the roster would be a win, even if it’s just to have him in a bench role behind Ayton.

Why would the Spurs do it?

With Poeltl entering the final year of his contract, the chances of him remaining with the Spurs long-term appears slim. Given his expiring deal, it’s unlikely anyone gives up an unprotected first-rounder for a player who could simply be a rental.

Getting a first-rounder for Poeltl would be a win for the Spurs, regardless of the other players attached to the deal. That’s assuming they’re not confident in re-signing him beyond this season.