San Antonio Spurs: 3 Free Agents that Gregg Popovich's side should be targeting

Despite losing Kawhi Leonard last summer, Gregg Popovich once again managed to steer his San Antonio Spurs side to the playoffs. Entering last season, many had tipped the Spurs to miss out on the postseason for the first time in almost two decades, although the legendary coach was able to get the most out of what was arguably the worst roster of his San Antonio tenure.

Nevertheless, the Spurs are once again facing an uphill battle to qualify for the playoffs in a crowded Western Conference, and the roster has scarcely improved after another quiet offseason.

The Spurs look particularly short in certain areas, although the team still has the opportunity to bring in further additions ahead of the new season. So, as the 2019-20 season quickly approaches, here are three free agents that San Antonio could consider signing.

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#3 Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony has not played since leaving the Houston Rockets back in November

Carmelo Anthony is still without a team as the new season approaches, and while the Spurs have plenty of forwards, the team remain short on scoring options. While Melo's defense leaves much to be desired, the 10-time All-Star is still an excellent volume scorer, and it is no stretch to suggest that the veteran could manage at least 15 points per game from the Spurs bench.

While Anthony doesn't jump out as a Popovich type of player, the 35-year-old has recently stated his intent to take a lesser role to extend his career, and Popovich has recently enjoyed great success with veteran stars such as Pau Gasol.

The Spurs could also protect themselves from potential issues by signing Anthony to a similar deal that the Los Angeles Lakers offered Dwight Howard earlier this summer, and bringing Anthony in could prove to be a major coup.

#2 Kenneth Faried

Kenneth Faried made an immediate impact with the Houston Rockets

Kenneth Faried was a regular starter throughout the first six seasons of his career with the Denver Nuggets, although the 29-year-old found himself playing for his future after joining the Houston Rockets in January. Faried's role had diminished during his final year in Denver, while a summer move to the Nets didn't work out as planned as the New Jersey native played just 12 times before being waived.

Nevertheless, Faried took his opportunity in Houston and averaged 12.9 points and 8.2 rebounds over 25 regular-season appearances. Despite his impressive performances, Faried couldn't agree on a deal to return to the Rockets, and he is undoubtedly the best free agent on the market under the age of 30.

Faried would be able to fill in for the Spurs at both center and power forward, and the veteran still has his prime years ahead of him. Offering him a contract until the end of the season makes sense, although Faried could eventually prove to be a long-term fit in San Antonio.

#1 Joakim Noah

Joakim Noah made an impact in his limited role in Memphis

Joakim Noah's career looked to be nearing the end following a disastrous spell with the New York Knicks, although the former All-Star enjoyed somewhat of a resurgence with the Memphis Grizzlies last season.

Over 42 appearances, Noah managed to contribute 7.1 points and 5.7 rebounds in just 16.5 minutes per game as the New York native demonstrated his ability to contribute as a backup center. The Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers did have a look at Noah in recent weeks, although both teams eventually pursued other options - leaving Noah as the best big on the market.

Noah's lack of a three-point shot won't be a problem as Popovich continues to resist the three, while the Spurs urgently need cover for Jakob Poeltl. Ultimately, a deal makes plenty of sense, and Noah should be able to give San Antonio a decent 15 minutes of hustle on a nightly basis.