The San Antonio Spurs are exploring major roster moves, with a potential trade for Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving emerging as a possibility. This comes as the team also considers moving on from guard De'Aaron Fox's long-term contract, following a tough NBA Finals loss to the New York Knicks that ended 90-94 on June 14, 2026. The Spurs' recent form shows just one win in their last five games, a sequence of LLWLL that includes losing their final two contests of the series.
Moving Fox's contract is a priority for San Antonio. The All-Star guard struggled in the five-game Finals, averaging 12.8 points, 6.0 assists, and 3.0 rebounds on 34% shooting from the floor. His performance made him a difficult fit during the critical moments against the Knicks.
By trading Fox, the Spurs would free up significant salary and create a clearer path for second-year guard Dylan Harper. Harper displayed serious superstar potential during his first playoff run, suggesting he's ready for a larger role. Analyst Bill Simmons recently proposed a deal sending Fox to the LA Clippers for guard Darius Garland.
Simmons suggested the Spurs might view a two-year deal for Garland as a better stopgap than Fox's four-year commitment. This would help manage future payroll for stars Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, and eventually Harper.
Even at 34 years old, Kyrie Irving represents a talent upgrade. ESPN's Tim MacMahon reported that rival teams expect the Mavericks to consider moving Irving as they build around 19-year-old prodigy Cooper Flagg. MacMahon noted the fit in Dallas is being questioned league-wide, not due to any dislike between the parties.
Irving's shot-making was exactly what San Antonio lacked in the clutch during the Finals. The team froze in Games 4 and 5, shooting a painful 27.8% from the floor and 20% from three-point range in those losses. His contract also offers more flexibility than Fox's deal.
Irving holds a $42 million player option for the 2027-28 season. That gives the Spurs a defined two-year window to pair him with Wembanyama, Castle, and Harper. The potential reward of adding an elite scorer and playmaker for a championship push could justify the risk associated with his age and injury history.
The trade deadline will be a key period for the Spurs' front office. Decisions on Fox and potential interest in Irving will shape the team's core for the next phase of Wembanyama's career. The recent Finals defeat, including close losses like the 107-106 and 104-105 games, highlighted a need for reliable perimeter scoring in high-pressure situations.
Whether they pursue Irving, Garland, or another option, the Spurs are clearly aiming to retool quickly. Their activity in the coming months will be vital for bouncing back from a tough end to the 2026 season. The front office must balance immediate competitiveness with long-term financial health around their young stars.
