Spurs front-runners to sign Kevin Martin

The San Antonio Spurs have emerged as strong contenders to sign Kevin Martin if the veteran shooting guard secures his expected buyout from the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to league sources.

Sources said Saturday that the Spurs have made the strongest pitch among the various playoff contenders chasing Martin, who has been in advanced negotiations on a contract buyout with Minnesota.

The Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets, sources say, are also among the known suitors for the 12-year veteran, who has averaged 17.6 points in 30.5 minutes per game in his career.