San Antonio Spurs have rapidly emerged as one of the NBA’s most dangerous teams, backing up their rise with results against elite competition.
San Antonio has already defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder three times this season, a notable achievement considering the Thunder sit atop the Western Conference standings.
With the Spurs currently second in the conference, the gap between promise and true contention is narrowing fast.
Those wins have underscored a key reality around the league: when Victor Wembanyama is on the floor, San Antonio can match up with anyone.
However, early injury concerns surrounding the franchise cornerstone have added urgency to Spurs’ long-term planning.
Trade proposal signals aggressive intent
Against that backdrop, a recent trade proposal from Bleacher Report suggests San Antonio could make a bold move to reinforce its perimeter defense and scoring depth. The proposed deal would see Spurs acquire Trey Murphy III from the New Orleans Pelicans.
Proposed trade:
San Antonio Spurs receive: Trey Murphy III
New Orleans Pelicans receive: Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, and a 2031 first-round pick (via San Antonio or Sacramento)
Murphy III has taken a significant leap this season, establishing himself as a high-level two-way wing. He is averaging over 20 points per game while shooting close to 50 percent from the field, the most efficient stretch of his career. His elite three-point shooting and defensive versatility align perfectly with San Antonio’s system.
Insurance amid health uncertainty
The appeal of Murphy III goes beyond production. His addition would provide the Spurs with a reliable third scoring option, offering valuable insurance if Wembanyama’s injury concerns resurface later in the season.
De’Aaron Fox, another key piece of San Antonio’s core, also carries a history of injuries, making roster balance a priority.
From a long-term perspective, parting with a distant first-round pick may not significantly hinder San Antonio Spurs. By the time the 2031 selection conveys, San Antonio projects to remain competitive, minimizing the risk associated with losing future draft capital.
Championship belief taking shape
For New Orleans, the return addresses a different need. The Pelicans continue to search for a foundational centerpiece and could benefit from accumulating draft assets and young rotation players.
For San Antonio, however, the message would be unmistakable. Trading for Trey Murphy III would signal organizational confidence in Victor Wembanyama’s generational talent and a belief that the current window is worth maximizing now.
San Antonio Spurs are no longer positioning for the future—they are actively preparing to contend, even as health questions loom over their brightest star.