Aron Baynes had an impressive outing for Australia in the FIBA World Cup of Basketball in Spain averaging 17 points and 7 rebounds. He even held his own againts reputable NBA centers like Jonas Valanciunas. The San Anotonio Spurs, however, apparently have no plans of giving the 6'10' big man an extension this offseason according to Marc J. Spears who reported that the team is open for sign-and-trade scenarios for the 27-year-old Baynes.
Money seems to be the main issue why the Spurs and Baynes have yet to come to an agreement this offseason. In the opening day of free agency, the team offered the Australian big man a $1.1 million qualifying offer and made hime a restricted free agent but Baynes believes that his value is worth around $2 million a year per Pounding the Rock.
The Spurs are still adamant in their offer forcing Baynes to explore options in Europe. There is also no NBA team reportedly ready to give him the money that he wants although his recent performance at the World Cup of Basketball may have helped him in his cause. If Baynes market price has indeed risen due to his impressive numbers in FIBA then its no surprise why the Spurs are exploring trade options for him. They may be able to captilize off his strong tournament play according to Bryan Rose of Fan Sided:
If that is the case, who is likely to show interest in Aron Baynes? That's not something well known at this point considering Baynes isn't exactly attracting much currently, though the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers are said to be seeking a bench big man.
After shipping Omer Asik to the New Orleans Pelicans for salary cap relief, the Rockets suddenly look thin in the front court and they would need another reliable big body like Baynes if they are to make a deep run in the playoffs especially in the Western Conference. The Cavaliers, on the other hand, need a quality back up big to ease Anderson Varejao's minutes. Varejao is also injury prone which means they need an insurance in the center position if he goes down and Baynes is a great option given his price tag.
With the Rockets and Cavaliers looking for frontcourt depth to help them in their quest for an NBA title in the coming season, Baynes might prove to be a quality option late in the offseason. If any of the said teams does end up inquiring about the big man, look for the Spurs to pull the trigger on a trade deal.
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