NBA Trade Deadline: Pass or Pursue the Most Tradeable Player on Every Team

Philadelphia 76ers - Ben Simmons

There was a time when the San Antonio Spurs were linked as a real possible landing spot for Ben Simmons, who hasn't played in an NBA game since June 20th, 2021. Since then, 76ers general manager Daryl Morey has made it clear he's not about to trade his prized point guard for anything less than a treasure trove. The Spurs shouldn't and won't have interest in making an offer if that's the case.

Verdict: Pass

Phoenix Suns - Dario Saric

The Phoenix Suns would love to shed the salary of Dario Saric before next season, and his contract is certainly tradeable as part of a package. There's been a long-standing rumor that he could be involved in a trade for Thaddeus Young that included a pick from the Suns and Jalen Smith, but that has since died down. If that deal is made available, the Spurs should obviously take it. If not, then --

Verdict: Pass

Portland Trail Blazers - Jusuf Nurkic

The Portland Trail Blazers made a questionable move when they traded away Robert Covington and Normal Powell, but it could've just been a way to set up for future moves. One such rumored deal could involve 6-11 center Jusuf Nurkic, who is averaging 14.5 points and 10.8 rebounds this season. That said, I've never been even remotely impressed with his defense, and San Antonio has Zach Collins to throw in as a backup big for now.

Verdict: Pass

Sacramento Kings - De'Aaron Fox

Like many other big talents on this list, the pursuit of De'Aaron Fox comes down to if you think he can be a potential franchise player down the road. His five-year contract increases yearly and has an average of $32.6 million per season. Would the Spurs go for that kind of deal that's locked in until 2026? I don't think so.

Verdict: Pass