Rumor: Could Spurs, Lakers Battle for Quin Snyder This Summer?

Could we be witnessing the final 10 games of the Gregg Popovich coaching the San Antonio Spurs? Some in NBA circles wouldn't be surprised if that's the case.

Previously, NBA insider Marc Stein reported we should keep an eye on Utah's Quin Snyder as a potential replacement if he becomes available. "More and more, I hear Snyder's name as a potential Pop successor that the Spurs would naturally relish," said Stein in that column.

On Monday, he added more to that idea in his most recent substack (subscription required).

"Snyder's name keeps coming up. Even as it remains unclear how much longer Popovich plans to coach the Spurs," said Stein.

While he believes Popovich will ultimately will return for at least one more season, Stein thinks it could also depend on what happens in Utah this postseason. If they and Snyder decide to part ways, he'd be a perfect fit in San Antonio.

According to a former unnamed Spur in Stein's report, abruptly handing the reins to avoid a farewell tour would be just like Popovich. If a successor with the qualifications and experience of Snyder suddenly became available, that could be too tempting of a scenario to turn down.

Another team to watch for Quin Snyder: The Los Angeles Lakers

"I've heard Snyder's name as a probable Lakers candidate should they part ways," continues Stein.

The Lakers, of course, have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league this season and are in danger of missing the playoffs altogether if they don't have a solid stretch to close out the season.

As Stein notes, Quin isn't projected to be on the market this offseason, but it's not known publicly when his extension from 2019-20 is set to expire. Still, he cites coaching sources saying Utah has been unsuccessful in extending his contract any further, making him potentially more gettable than advertised.

Snyder spent three seasons coaching the Austin Toros from 2007-2010 and was also an assistant in Los Angeles for a season under Mike Brown in 2011. Utah's progress this postseason will certainly be worth following withthese reports.