After a brief delay, the Spurs have reached an agreement to release Marcus Morris, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. In a previous trade involving three teams, the Spurs acquired Morris, along with the Clippers’ 2029 second-round pick and cash considerations, in exchange for Doug McDermott. This trade also involved sending McDermott to the Pacers and Buddy Hield to the 76ers.
The Spurs’ decision to buy out Morris comes after a sour history with him, particularly due to his reversal on a free agency deal in 2019, which occurred after the Spurs had traded away Davis Bertans to accommodate him. While there was some sarcastic speculation that the Spurs might hold onto Morris until after the playoff deadline before waiving him, they opted not to go down that route. Morris never joined the team during their Rodeo Road Trip.
Marcus Morris has agreed to a contract buyout with the San Antonio Spurs to become a free agent, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The productive veteran forward secures playoff eligibility and is now candidate to join a postseason contender. pic.twitter.com/QuBtdE1yuG
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 29, 2024
This move frees up a roster spot for the Spurs, giving them flexibility to either sign a player from the waiver wire (such as Patty Mills, who has recently become available) or to convert Dominick Barlow from a two-way to a standard contract. Additionally, they could potentially create another roster spot by utilizing Charles Bassey’s injured player exception before March 10.