The San Antonio Spurs did not make the 2025 NBA playoffs, despite having one of the strongest postseason series. In the Eastern Conference, the Indiana Pacers are seeking to build a reputation for themselves as serious Finals contenders, and the Milwaukee Bucks are hoping to prove to the league that last year’s first-round departure was only a fluke.
With the Pacers winning Game 1 of the series, Rick Carlisle’s team is doing a better job of advancing their agenda. If the Bucks lose in the first round to the Pacers for the second consecutive season, Giannis Antetokounmpo, one of the NBA’s top three players, is likely to request a trade.
If he demands a trade, he will not come cheap, but the Spurs have the assets to match any offer the Bucks may receive. A trio of Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, and the Greek Freak would instantly make the Spurs title contenders, and all they would need to do is surround that core with shooters. How are you meant to score against two of the league’s finest defenders? In theory, the Spurs could offer Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, a first-round selection in 2025 (via Atlanta), 2027 (via Atlanta), 2029, and a 2031 trade with the Sacramento Kings.
Of course, figuring out offensive spacing would be difficult, but adding a top-three player to the roster would be doable for the Spurs. Antetokounmpo has a player option for 2027-28, and if the Bucks lose to the Pacers, he may demand a change of scenery.
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