Report: Spurs to pursue Marc Gasol in free agency

With San Antonio's current core approaching its expiry date, Spurs management is understandably looking to the future which may include Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol, reports Frank Isola of the New York Daily News.

Isola cites the Spurs' interest in Gasol as a potential replacement for Tim Duncan, whose contract expires after the season. Moreover, retirement is the more pressing concern for Duncan, who'll be 38 upon completion of the season.

Gasol has one season remaining on his current deal with Memphis, and is slated to become an unrestricted free agent next summer.

On paper, Gasol projects to be an ideal fit on the Spurs, as his size, mobility, versatility and high basketball IQ would allow Gasol to seamlessly adapt to the Spurs' intricate schemes. As a former defensive player of the year, Gasol could also step into Duncan's vacated role as defensive anchor.

Landing Gasol would undoubtedly come at the cost of a max contract. The New York Knicks would also reportedly pursue Gasol, reports Isola.