Spurs Center Talks Possible Trade, And His Future In San Antonio

The San Antonio Spurs have one more very large trade chip under their belt this season if they want to accelerate their rebuilding plan to yet another level. But center Jakob Poeltl, who will be a free agent after the 2022-23 season, doesn't think he's going to be traded. 

Jakob is back in the US,before that he talked to Austrian media:“yes, i was surprised about the Murray trade. That’s the business. I am happy in SA,as far as I heard from the spurs:they count on me,they want me to stay & are planning the new start with me.“

— Jakob Pöltl unofficial (@PoltlFan) August 9, 2022

"As far as I heard from the spurs, they count on me, they want me to stay & are planning the new start with me," said Poeltl.

"It's possible that I'll stay with the Spurs for the rest of the year. From the current perspective, the chances are very good that I will play for the Spurs (this) season," he told an Austrian news outlet, as related by Kens5 in San Antonio.

He's happy in San Antonio, and while he would like to remain a Spur after this season, he realizes the team will not be in contention anytime soon.

"I would like to be successful with such a young team. I'm aware that on paper we're not there to be upfront in the playoffs. It will be quite a challenge to even get there," he said.

And if, indeed, he doesn't get dealt, his decision on whether to re-sign is something he says he'll give a lot of thought to, after the season.

"I will take a close look at the situation next summer, whether it makes sense or not," Poeltl said.

Last season, Poeltl joined the NBA's center elite, establishing career-highs points (13.5), rebounds (9.3), and assists (2.8).

Photo: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports