Spurs' interest in star may come roaring back if latest rumors are true

The regular season hasn't even started yet, but already, a former San Antonio Spurs trade target is now available. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Spurs were interested in Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen back in 2021.

But with him reportedly being available this season, the Spurs could potentially rekindle their interest. The Jazz may hold off on trading him until around the trade deadline as they sort out potential offers, but the Spurs should register interest.

He would make plenty of sense with this roster, giving them a massive shooting upgrade. He would also provide them a third star, who can easily fit around Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox. Markkanen would also fit nicely salary-wise, despite his seemingly large contract.

What could a potential Lauri Markkanen trade look like for the Spurs

A potential Markkanen trade would likely cost the Spurs Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Jeremy Sochan, plus a first-round pick. That might seem like too high a price to pay for Markkanen.

However, that may change before the trade deadline. For one, Vassell and Johnson could play well, increasing their trade value, leaving the door open for a big trade. Giannis Antetokounmpo would be at the top of a potential list of trade targets if the Spurs decide to go big game hunting around the trade deadline.

Markannen would be an intriguing backup option, however. After all, he averaged an impressive 23 points and 7.7 rebounds and shot a ridiculous 38% on 8.0 threes per game over the last three seasons.

Yes, he's likely still overpaid, making $40 million-plus over the next four seasons, but he has the skills needed to help supercharge the Spurs' offense.

Lauri Markkanen would be a swing-for-the-fences move

Vassell and Johnson will combine to make $44 million over this season and next season. That would essentially match Markkanen's salary for two of those four years.

If Sochan is included in the deal, which hopefully wouldn't be necessary, his potential extension plus the remaining two years of Vassell's deal would offset most of the final two years of Markkanen's contract. All that is to say, the Spurs could make a trio of Fox, Wembanyama, and Markkanen work financially.

At least for three seasons until Stephon Castle's extension hits. By that time, Dylan Harper might have made Fox expendable, and Markkanen would only have one year left on his contract.

All that is dependent on how the Spurs play this season. If the Spurs are better than expected—like a top-four seed—then they might be more willing to make a big trade while they still have the chance to try and win now. In that case, Markkanen might help transform them from good to great.