Spurs: Grading 8 free agent point guard options from 'no thanks' to 'sign now'

San Antonio Spurs, Fred VanVleet
San Antonio Spurs, Fred VanVleet | Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
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Kyrie Irving
Sacramento Kings v Dallas Mavericks | Ron Jenkins/GettyImages

2. Kyrie Irving

The Spurs' culture is clearly defined after more than two decades under Gregg Popovich, and they are only going to search for players that fit that mold.

Drama has followed Kyrie throughout his NBA career. It started in Cleveland when he asked out. Irving vowed to stay in Boston before departing for Brooklyn in free agency. His tenure with the Nets was a circus. Kyrie missed time after refusing to get vaccinated and was later suspended by the team for an antisemetic social media post before requesting a trade. Irving is an exceptional talent, but he does not fit in San Antonio.

The eight-time All-Star is an unrestricted free agent this summer. Dallas acquired him at the trade deadline, but will he stay with the Mavericks? If not, only a handful of teams have cap space. Could the Spurs be in play for Kyrie?

Verdict: Not even if he plays for free

San Antonio may be the most drama-free team in the NBA, so they will have zero interest in Kyrie Irving, despite his talent. Look no further than coach Pop’s thoughts on Irving being a part-time player during the pandemic. It is safe to say that the eight-time All-Star will not be playing in San Antonio.

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