The San Antonio Spurs are quietly positioning themselves as the most logical landing spot for New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III as trade buzz intensifies ahead of the deadline. While New Orleans is listening, the message from the front office is clear: Murphy will not be moved without a massive return, one comparable to the Desmond Bane blockbuster from last offseason.
The New Orleans Pelicans have set an aggressive asking price. As reported by Jake Fischer, New Orleans is seeking a “Desmond Bane-type package” to even consider parting with Murphy.
That benchmark matters. When the Orlando Magic acquired Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies, the cost included multiple unprotected first-round picks, a premium player, and draft flexibility. New Orleans views Murphy in that same tier of long-term value.
Why New Orleans Is Holding Firm
At 8-23, the Pelicans are staring down a pivot point. Zion Williamson’s availability remains inconsistent, and recent blowout losses have only amplified questions about direction. Still, Murphy represents stability in an otherwise uncertain core. At 23 years old, he’s averaging 20.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while taking on a larger offensive burden. Even with a dip to 36 percent from three, his volume, athleticism, and two-way upside make him one of the league’s more coveted forwards on a team-friendly trajectory.
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Complicating matters further, New Orleans no longer controls its 2026 first-round pick, which was moved to Atlanta in the Derik Queen deal. That reality raises the bar even higher. If the Pelicans move Murphy, it must be for a package that replenishes draft capital and delivers young, controllable talent.
Why the Spurs Make the Most Sense
This is where the San Antonio Spurs separate themselves from the pack. Few teams can realistically meet New Orleans’ demands without compromising their future. San Antonio can.
The Spurs own one of the deepest draft war chests in the league and have young rotation players they can include without touching their foundational piece, Victor Wembanyama. That flexibility matters. San Antonio can build a competitive offer using future first-round picks, swaps, and complementary young players, while still aligning with Wembanyama’s long-term timeline.
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Unlike other rumored suitors, the Spurs don’t need Murphy to carry a franchise. They need him to amplify one. His shooting gravity, transition scoring, and defensive versatility would slot cleanly next to Wembanyama and elevate San Antonio’s half-court offense without forcing him into an overextended role.
New Orleans isn’t desperate and that’s exactly why this situation favors San Antonio. The Pelicans will only move Trey Murphy III if overwhelmed. The Spurs are one of the few teams capable of doing just that. As the deadline approaches, all signs point to San Antonio emerging as the most credible and dangerous threat to land one of the league’s most valuable young forwards.