The San Antonio Spurs are considered the frontrunners to sign shooting guard Kevin Martin in the likely event that the Minnesota Timberwolves buy out his contract, according to ESPN’s Marc Stein:
ESPN sources say buyout talks continue for Minnesota's Kevin Martin, with San Antonio emerging as the favorite to land him if deal is struck
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 27, 2016
Kevin Martin must be bought out by Tuesday to be playoff-eligible; sources say San Antonio's pitch, among many suitors, is strongest so far.
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) February 27, 2016
Martin being bought out seems to be a pretty sure thing at this point, as Stein also reported that he is in advanced discussions with the team. Other teams will likely be interested in acquiring Martin’s services; the Mavericks are one team that has reportedly shown interest.
Plenty of teams would be happy to sign Martin. He may be a bit out of his prime, but at age 33 he still has some good years ahead of him. Just last season he was averaging 20 points a game on 39.3% 3-point shooting. Martin should be a good role player for the Spurs if he ends up signing there. Throughout his time in the NBA he has been an elite 3-point and free throw shooter; his career averages in those categories are 38.5% and 87% respectively.
This season, Martin has played just 21.4 minutes per game for the Timberwolves — the least minutes per game he’s played since his rookie year. Hopefully Martin can find a good role with the Spurs, or any other team he may choose to sign with.
UPDATE:
Martin will end up joining the San Antonio Spurs, according to Marc Stein of ESPN. The rich get richer.
Free agent guard Kevin Martin has agreed to join the San Antonio Spurs, according to league sources
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) March 5, 2016
