NBA Rumors: San Antonio Spurs Target Anthony Davis Trade; Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge Recruit Pelicans Star

Aug 22, 2016 04:50 AM EDT

The San Antonio Spurs are big on investing on NBA All-Star players who can easily take over when the Big Three, composed of Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge and Danny Green, especially in light of the Tim Duncan retirement and the pending exit of both Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili. With this in mind, the Pau Gasol team is looking into a strong player who can work both defense and offense. Hence, it comes as no surprise that an Anthony Davis trade is in the works with the San Antonio Spurs.

The small ball strategy in the past two seasons, which became a notorious game changer after the Golden State Warriors used Stephen Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson to win the NBA Finals in the 2014-15 season, hindered the growth of the likes of Anthony Davis in the league. In fact, even the Cleveland Cavaliers adapted to the strategy by shifting the posts assigned to LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love. The same was done by the Oklahoma City Thunder through Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant.

This now poses problems for the New Orleans Pelicans since their roster centers on the size of Anthony Davis. Without anyone protecting the rim better than the NBA All-Star, the Jrue Holiday team struggle whenever they take him off that position. However, Anthony Davis also thrived in other positions.

Based on the disappointing run of the New Orleans Pelicans last NBA season, it appears that they are starting to lose ways to take full advantage of their franchise leader. Hence, fans feel that an Anthony Davis trade is now the best option for the Jrue Holiday squad. Due to his reputation, it is not difficult to find a trade partner for the big man. However, it looks like the San Antonio Spurs are on top of the list of NBA teams that can land Anthony Davis.

To maximize the presence of Anthony Davis in the hardwood court, his team must provide him with a reliable support system. This points to the players available in the San Antonio Spurs particularly the teamwork of Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge and Danny Green. Moreover, the idea of no longer solely carrying the entire New Orleans Pelicans roster during crucial games could help Anthony Davis get back to his former glory.

At this point, though, these remain as NBA trade rumors. No official comment has been provided by any of the parties involved. At the moment, the New Orleans Pelicans are preparing to host the NBA All-Star games after Adam Silver moved the event from Charlotte. As for the San Antonio Spurs, the team is looking into filling the void left by the Tim Duncan retirement.