Shai Gilgeous-Alexander allegedly discussed for trade with San Antonio Spurs

OKC star reportedly wants out; San Antonio emerges as potential landing spot

Months after the Oklahoma City Thunder traded away All-Star guard Chris Paul to the Phoenix Suns, rumblings are emerging that another star player may be on his way out.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the team's leading scorer and one of the most promising young players in the NBA, has reportedly requested a trade out of Oklahoma City, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

While the Thunder have not confirmed the request, Wojnarowski reports that the San Antonio Spurs have emerged as a potential landing spot for Gilgeous-Alexander.

Why would Gilgeous-Alexander want out of Oklahoma City?

Gilgeous-Alexander has been a key figure in the Thunder's rebuild since being acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers in the Paul George trade in 2019.

He has averaged over 20 points per game in each of the past two seasons and was named to the NBA's All-Rookie Second Team in 2020.

However, the Thunder have struggled to find success on the court, going a combined 34-112 over the past two seasons.

Gilgeous-Alexander may be looking for a chance to compete for a playoff spot and showcase his talents on a more competitive team.

Why are the Spurs interested in Gilgeous-Alexander?

The Spurs are in a similar rebuilding mode to the Thunder, having traded away Dejounte Murray to the Atlanta Hawks this offseason.

Gilgeous-Alexander would fill a similar role for the Spurs, providing them with a young, talented guard to build around.

The Spurs also have a history of developing young players, so they could provide Gilgeous-Alexander with the opportunity to reach his full potential.

What would a trade look like?

Any trade involving Gilgeous-Alexander is likely to be complex, given his status as one of the most promising young players in the NBA.

The Spurs could potentially offer a package of young players and draft picks in exchange for Gilgeous-Alexander.

Some potential players that could be included in a trade include Keldon Johnson, Josh Primo, and Devin Vassell.

What's next?

The Thunder and Spurs are reportedly still in the early stages of trade talks, so it's unclear if a deal will ultimately be reached.

However, the mere fact that Gilgeous-Alexander has reportedly requested a trade is a significant development for both teams.

If Gilgeous-Alexander does end up leaving Oklahoma City, it would mark the end of an era for the Thunder and could signal a new direction for the franchise.