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Libri
05-07-2009, 01:28 AM
Sam Young

http://www.draftexpress.com/headshots/samyoung.jpg

Height: 6' 6"
Weight: 210 lbs
Birthday: 06/01/1985 (23 Years Old)
Current: SF/PF
NBA: SF
Possible: SF
Best Case: James Posey
Worst Case: Joey Graham

DraftExpress (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Sam-Young-1012/)
NBADraft.net (http://www.nbadraft.net/players/sam-young)
ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/player/profile?playerId=27299)

manufor3
05-07-2009, 07:15 AM
first rounder

TheProfessor
05-07-2009, 07:26 AM
Was hoping he'd stay in the draft last year and slip to our spot.

florige
05-07-2009, 07:37 AM
I would be VERY excited if we were to get him. But I'm not sure how long it would be before he wound up not getting any minutes for taking too many shots away from Pop's buddy Finley.

Biggems
05-07-2009, 09:42 PM
He is the reason I wish we still had a 1st rounder.....

IMO, he would be the perfect replacement for Bruce. Keep Bruce for one more year, to help groom Young.


I am holding out hope that we can possibly swing a deal, with let's say OKC. They draft Young and then trade his rights to us for 2 of our 2nd rounders and maybe one of our players with an expiring contract.

angelbelow
05-07-2009, 10:22 PM
unfortunately i think he is a first rounder too.

Biggems
05-07-2009, 11:53 PM
If we could somehow get Young and Green in the draft, it would Rock the Cat Box

Libri
05-08-2009, 12:12 AM
I like everything that I'm reading about his defense.

024
05-08-2009, 12:22 AM
if only the spurs had a first round pick. his defense is nba caliber.

holcs50
05-08-2009, 12:35 AM
Terrence williams from louisville or Sam Young would be nice pickups-they'll both go top 20 though

Gino2882
05-10-2009, 08:35 PM
He would be a very good fit for the Spurs. Can score and create. Solid defender. Hell of a shot fake.

One thing working against him that could benefit the Spurs is Young's age. He is already 24.

I still see him going late first round though.

superjames1992
05-10-2009, 11:38 PM
first rounder
Indeed.

And I don't want him, anyways! PITT SUCKS!!!

Ditty
05-11-2009, 02:52 PM
If we could somehow get Young and Green in the draft, it would Rock the Cat Box

:toast damn our defense would be sick

i still hope spurs can maybe get 3 really early draft picks in the second round to get sergio llull,victor claver and danny green

Blackjack
05-26-2009, 12:31 PM
Draft Prospect: Sam Young

If the Spurs retain their current draft position of 37, a certain tier of player will be unavailable to us. But as Tim has repeatedly noted, the Spurs may attempt to trade up. If we can work our way into the first round, we can begin directing our attention to a different caliber of athlete. If the Spurs do make such a move, I think Sam Young of the University of Pittsburgh deserves serious consideration.

Jonathan Givony, of Draft Express, had this to say about Young:

Blessed with athleticism, strength, and an excellent body, Sam Young looks the part and has the work ethic to be a defensive specialist at the next level. Certain parts of his offensive game fit the description of an effective role-player as well… If he improves the range on his jumper to acclimate the 37.2% three-point percentage he posted as a senior past the NBA-line, he could become a viable offensive role-player who is an even better defender, a la James Posey.

I am a casual Pitt fan (my mother is from Pittsburgh), so I watched a fair amount of Young this season and I fundamentally agree with his assessment. As Givony notes, Young has both the physical ability and the mentality to be a marquis perimeter defender in the NBA. There are concerns about his height (at 6′ 6″ he is slightly undersized for the SF position) but, as best I can tell, his doggedness and length are highly effective antidotes. His expansive wingspan allows him to pester taller outside shooters and rebound well above his height (video below will attest to the latter).



As you may have just noticed, Young isn’t a bad outside shooter either. He seems to fit the mold of the “3 and D” Spurs wing except he can also finish at the rim. In fact, he prefers to take advantage of overzealous rotators and head for the hoop, where his upper-body strength allows him to absorb contact and still put up a decent shot attempt. He doesn’t have a reliable pull-up jumper; once he has committed to the dribble his only option is to finish at the rim. But the Spurs are not interested in role players with a mid-range game. The most efficient spots on the floor from which to score are at the rim and beyond the arc. Young has the ability to score from both.

Young is not the most talented small forward in this draft class. Demar DeRozan, Austin Daye, and Chase Budinger are all more talented. But the Spurs are not interested in pure talent. We are not building from the ground up. We have a system and we are interested in the players that best compliment that system. In my opinion, of the top 5 small forward prospects in this draft, Sam Young is the best fit for the silver and black.



http://www.48minutesofhell.com/2009/05/26/draft-prospect-sam-young/#more-2942

Blackjack
05-26-2009, 12:54 PM
There are concerns about his height (at 6′ 6″ he is slightly undersized for the SF position)

In the unlikely scenario that Young ends up a Spur, I don't see a concern with him being a legit 6' 6".

The Spurs' "small-forward" (Bruce) is essentially a 2-guard physically. I don't see someone of Young's height and length being detrimental to a defensive system that's thrived with similar attributes at the small-forward position.

I love Young's physical and mental toughness and could definitely see him being a fit with the silver and black.

Ditty
05-26-2009, 12:56 PM
would take him or omri cassipi in the 1st round or get them both

get danny green or victor claver with the 37th pick

SenorSpur
05-26-2009, 04:14 PM
He is the reason I wish we still had a 1st rounder.....

IMO, he would be the perfect replacement for Bruce. Keep Bruce for one more year, to help groom Young.


I am holding out hope that we can possibly swing a deal, with let's say OKC. They draft Young and then trade his rights to us for 2 of our 2nd rounders and maybe one of our players with an expiring contract.

I'll say it again. The absence of that 1st round pick and the obvious NEED for it this year, makes the decision to give it up to OKC for KT a very poor decision. If the Spurs couldn't have obtained KT for a 2nd rounder, there was no reason to do the deal.

As bad off as the Spurs are at the SF position, do whatever it takes to go get this guy.

That said, I sure hope Presti and the OKC crew, are willing to do the Spurs another solid and entertain offers to trade the pick back.

Biggems
05-26-2009, 08:41 PM
I'll say it again. The absence of that 1st round pick and the obvious NEED for it this year, makes the decision to give it up to OKC for KT a very poor decision. If the Spurs couldn't have obtained KT for a 2nd rounder, there was no reason to do the deal.

As bad off as the Spurs are at the SF position, do whatever it takes to go get this guy.

That said, I sure hope Presti and the OKC crew, are willing to do the Spurs another solid and entertain offers to trade the pick back.

I want Young, Danny Green, and Malik Hairston on the roster next season. Our future at the wing would be so much brighter

Biggems
05-26-2009, 09:23 PM
Give me this lineup for our wings and I will be ecstatic

SF - Bowen, Young, Green
SG - Mason, Manu, Hairston
PG - Parker, Hill

Ditty
05-26-2009, 11:40 PM
give me this lineup for our wings and i will be ecstatic

sf - ariza, young, green
sg - mason, manu, hairston
pg - parker, hill

fixed

Yogurt210
05-27-2009, 03:41 PM
huge gain if we get him, funny tho how he is expected to be drafted by OKC, when we gave OKC that pick

Obstructed_View
05-27-2009, 03:46 PM
I'm still waiting for an explanation from somebody as to how Sam Young improves the team.

Biggems
05-27-2009, 08:19 PM
I'm still waiting for an explanation from somebody as to how Sam Young improves the team.

perimeter defense. in fact, adding young, danny green, hairston, and a healthy manu and our perimeter D should be quite impressive.

monosylab1k
05-27-2009, 10:18 PM
he sucks

Obstructed_View
05-27-2009, 11:11 PM
perimeter defense. in fact, adding young, danny green, hairston, and a healthy manu and our perimeter D should be quite impressive.

Hairston, Young and Manu are all the same size.

Blackjack
05-27-2009, 11:29 PM
Hairston, Young and Manu are all the same size.

The difference between Young and Hairston's height is basically the same as Bowen to Udoka.

Young definitely has an NBA-ready body that's, while not quite as ridiculous as Artest, is more along those lines, and Hairston is built more along the lines of a Barkley or Wells in that: their round, sneaky explosive, and overall bulls.

They do bring a lot of the same attributes to the table, but they do come in a little bit of a different package, with a different way of going about it.

If Bowen and Udoka can co-exist in a 8 or 9-man rotation, there's no reason to think that they couldn't do the same. Especially when you consider that only one would probably get the opportunity to crack the rotation next year, while the other sits in street clothes.(Not that any of this matters, because the Spurs don't have, and most likely won't have, a first-round pick)

Obstructed_View
05-27-2009, 11:51 PM
The difference between Young and Hairston's height is basically the same as Bowen to Udoka.

Young definitely has an NBA-ready body that's, while not quite as ridiculous as Artest, is more along those lines, and Hairston is built more along the lines of a Barkley or Wells in that: their round, sneaky explosive, and overall bulls.

Unless I'm hugely mistaken, Bowen is much taller and much longer than Udoka. Hairston and Young are probably as close to exactly the same in both height and wingspan as it gets.



They do bring a lot of the same attributes to the table, but they do come in a little bit of a different package, with a different way of going about it.

If Bowen and Udoka can co-exist in a 8 or 9-man rotation, there's no reason to think that they couldn't do the same. Especially when you consider that only one would probably get the opportunity to crack the rotation next year, while the other sits in street clothes.(Not that any of this matters, because the Spurs don't have, and most likely won't have, a first-round pick)

In other words, the Spurs would trade up for a player they already have and just waste one of them away for a year when they could get something they don't already have three or four of on the roster. Hairston's already pretty expendable because he lacks the length to play against the Kevin Durants of the league. Unfortunately, the Spurs need the one thing you can't teach, and Young ain't got it.

Blackjack
05-28-2009, 12:27 AM
Unless I'm hugely mistaken, Bowen is much taller and much longer than Udoka. Hairston and Young are probably as close to exactly the same in both height and wingspan as it gets.

Bowen is 6' 7" with long arms and Udoka is 6' 5".

Young is 6' 6" with long arms (possibly close to 6' 7"- we'll see after the workouts) and Hairston is 6' 4.25" with a long arms.




In other words, the Spurs would trade up for a player they already have and just waste one of them away for a year when they could get something they don't already have three or four of on the roster. Hairston's already pretty expendable because he lacks the length to play against the Kevin Durants of the league. Unfortunately, the Spurs need the one thing you can't teach, and Young ain't got it.

First off, you asked how Young could help this team. I was just telling you simply what he brought and how he did differ to Hairston.

Secondly, Hairston isn't a member of the Spurs at the moment. If the Spurs liked Young enough to aquire a pick to draft him, it wouldn't hurt my feelings. Maybe it spells the end of Hairston in S.A., maybe it doesn't, but I do think they could co-exist.

And as for defending the Durant's of the world?

Someone like Gist might be the answer and Young (in the unlikely scenario that he becomes a Spur) would have the stength, athleticism and decent enough length to make him work, but there are no stoppers for players of that caliber.

The Spurs may or may not have Bowen next year but the next two best perimeter defenders they have are Hill (6' 2") and Ginobili.(6' 6")

The Spurs do need some defensive size at the wing, and while Hairston could help, no matter how much I like him, under 6' 5" isn't going to cut it.

Thabo would be ideal, McGuire would be a nice under the radar get for what the Spurs need, but the Spurs probably need someone who's been around and earned the respect of the officials to help out the immediate need.

Obstructed_View
05-28-2009, 01:20 AM
Bowen is 6' 7" with long arms and Udoka is 6' 5".

Young is 6' 6" with long arms (possibly close to 6' 7"- we'll see after the workouts) and Hairston is 6' 4.25" with a long arms.

Yeah, I still don't understand the comparison. Everything I've seen lists both of them as 6'6" with long wingspans. I literally couldn't find anything that suggests Hairston is shorter than 6'6", and he's not stocky or short armed, and he certainly doesn't have slow feet or poor jumping ability like Udoka does.


First off, you asked how Young could help this team. I was just telling you simply what he brought and how he did differ to Hairston.
I understand that and do appreciate the effort, but I don't see how he differs from Hairston unless your measurements are accurate, and even then it doesn't seem like enough of an upgrade for a guy that's not any longer than Manu is. Young is a better college player on a better college team, and seems to have a knack for stepping up in big games. He certainly seems to have more upside.


Secondly, Hairston isn't a member of the Spurs at the moment. If the Spurs liked Young enough to aquire a pick to draft him, it wouldn't hurt my feelings. Maybe it spells the end of Hairston in S.A., maybe it doesn't, but I do think they could co-exist.

That's an excellent point, but the Spurs could have Hairston any time they want, and trading up to take such a similar player seems horribly wasteful, considering that he's got the exact same skillset that they didn't appreciate from Hairston. I don't see that there's anyone in the NBA that Young could defend that Hairston couldn't, so if the Spurs are going to trade up, they should be going for someone with more size. That's all I'm saying.

Blackjack
05-28-2009, 02:48 AM
Yeah, I still don't understand the comparison. Everything I've seen lists both of them as 6'6" with long wingspans. I literally couldn't find anything that suggests Hairston is shorter than 6'6", and he's not stocky or short armed, and he certainly doesn't have slow feet or poor jumping ability like Udoka does.

Trust me. Hairston isn't 6' 6". Mason's 6' 5" might be generous and Hairston looked to be, at best, the same size. I think DX had him listed as 6' 6" and a lot of others used that, but I think most listed him as 6' 5" coming out of college. I think it was mountainballer (I don't feel like going back in this thread at the moment:lol) who found that he was measured at 6' 4.25" at the pre-draft workouts, by the way.

My comparing Hairston to Young and Udoka to Bowen was strictly in regards to there height. Although, maybe before Udoka's knee problems he could clear the yellow pages.:hat



I understand that and do appreciate the effort, but I don't see how he differs from Hairston unless your measurements are accurate, and even then it doesn't seem like enough of an upgrade for a guy that's not any longer than Manu is. Young is a better college player on a better college team, and seems to have a knack for stepping up in big games. He certainly seems to have more upside.

:tu

I'm pretty sure Young is a legit 6' 6", also. I actually thought he was closer to 6' 7" but I guess playing around a bunch of college midgets (at least by NBA-standards) can have that effect. I'll be interested in seeing how he measures.



That's an excellent point, but the Spurs could have Hairston any time they want, and trading up to take such a similar player seems horribly wasteful, considering that he's got the exact same skillset that they didn't appreciate from Hairston. I don't see that there's anyone in the NBA that Young could defend that Hairston couldn't, so if the Spurs are going to trade up, they should be going for someone with more size. That's all I'm saying.

I appreciate where your coming from and don't terribly disagree. I'm not advocating the Spurs move up to pick Young, just saying I like the kid and that he'd be a nice fit with the silver and black.

I do think he'd probably have more consistent success against the better perimeter players in the league, since I do see a significant enough size/length and strength advantage over Hairston, but I could be wrong.

I actually think some of Hairston's on-ball success/highlights (i.e. blocking Prince, James, etc.) was partially due to his ability being underestimated, or them just lacking a scouting report/respect.

Hairston's just so sneaky athletic, with such good timing, that unless you've seen him enough, it's hard to understand the opposition he can pose defensively.

All in all, though, I'm not real confident in the Spurs finding the type of defender they need to contribute right away, through the draft.

Like I said before, you've got to have guys that have already established themselves in the league, to some degree, if you're ever going to have a chance at defending the stars in this league.

Sure, there's always exceptions, but I'd feel much better with a Thabo, Mcguire, etc.-type player in the fold.

mountainballer
05-28-2009, 05:44 PM
there are enough differences between Young and Hairston to think both would find different roles with the Spurs, so having both on the roster would still make sense. first off, I also think that Young is abou 1 - 1.5 '' taller than Hairston and I wouldn't be surprised, if his wingspan is about 7''. (he still wouldn't display perfect size for a SF, but good enough)
but the players are quite different. Young is the much better shooter, but Hairston is the better slasher and maybe also the overall more skilled player. I could even see both on the court together. especially in a small ball line up.

Blackjack
05-28-2009, 07:24 PM
there are enough differences between Young and Hairston to think both would find different roles with the Spurs, so having both on the roster would still make sense. first off, I also think that Young is abou 1 - 1.5 '' taller than Hairston and I wouldn't be surprised, if his wingspan is about 7''. (he still wouldn't display perfect size for a SF, but good enough)
but the players are quite different. Young is the much better shooter, but Hairston is the better slasher and maybe also the overall more skilled player. I could even see both on the court together. especially in a small ball line up.

They bring a lot of the same good attributes (physical/mental toughness, rebounding, defense) but you're right, there's enough differences in their actual game to think that they could successfully co-exist.

Young has more of a traditional small-forward's game, in that he's not typically going to break down a defense off the dribble to make a play, he's capable of knocking down a shot with his feet set, he possesses a pretty decent post game, and rebounds his position very well.

Hairston has a good 10-15' jumper, has a nice first step that helps with his slashing, plays well off the ball (finding seams, hitting the offensive glass) and passes the ball pretty well because of a good BBIQ.

As for Young not having the ideal height for a small-forward?

Young, depending on the measurements, might actually be quite comparable to Bowen.(6' 6"-6' 7" with a long wingspan) He's a much more physical-type player, so I'm not comparing how they go about defending, but the Spurs have built a championship-caliber program with essentially playing a small-forward, with a 2-guards frame.

Obstructed_View
05-28-2009, 11:09 PM
If the Spurs can find a way to get rid of Udoka and Finley, I'd consider Young and Hairston as moderate upgrades with huge upside.

SenorSpur
05-28-2009, 11:44 PM
If the Spurs can find a way to get rid of Udoka and Finley, I'd consider Young and Hairston as moderate upgrades with huge upside.

Please God, let it happen. :sleep

Ditty
05-29-2009, 12:05 AM
i think he can be like a more athletic ron artest IMO

he has the same kind of skills back to basket scoring
bad ball handling skills,three point shot, good defender, young is also a great dunker

would be nice

Blackjack
05-29-2009, 12:15 AM
http://www.48minutesofhell.com/2009/05/28/when-the-young-seem-old-catching-up-with-sam-young/

HarlemHeat37
05-29-2009, 01:50 AM
a lot of this will depend on Finley's decision..please Mike, do the right thing..

loveforthegame
05-29-2009, 10:46 AM
Are we already setting Finley up as the bad guy should the Spurs not have a successful off season?

Blackjack
05-29-2009, 12:52 PM
Height without shoes - 6' 5.25"

Height with shoes - 6' 6.75"

Weight - 223

Wingspan - 6' 10.75"

Standing Reach - 8' 9.5"

Blackjack
05-29-2009, 08:28 PM
Height without shoes - 6' 5.25"

Height with shoes - 6' 6.75"

Weight - 223

Wingspan - 6' 10.75"

Standing Reach - 8' 9.5"

For a comparison:

Josh Howard-

Height without shoes - 6' 5.25"

Height with shoes - 6' 6.5"

Weight - 202

Wingspan - 7' 2"

Standing Reach - 8' 9.5"

Obstructed_View
05-30-2009, 01:20 AM
Ime is a FA isn't he? So Finley seems to be your only problem.

Yeah, but what a problem it is. :)

Steve-O-Matic
06-02-2009, 11:27 PM
No way Young makes it to 37, but if the Spurs surprise us and buy a pick in the 20's, this is the guy that I hope they do it for.

loveforthegame
06-03-2009, 10:14 AM
If we could get the 15th pick and Earl Clark was still on the board that's who I'd be after.

Steve-O-Matic
06-03-2009, 10:26 AM
If we could get the 15th pick and Earl Clark was still on the board that's who I'd be after.

Ditto. Young would be a reach at 15, but Clark certainly wouldn't. Young has the higher floor, but Clark has the higher ceiling and that's the type of gamble the Spurs need to take at a spot like that.

benefactor
06-03-2009, 12:04 PM
IMHO, any venture we make into the first round is to go after Casspi.

SenorSpur
06-03-2009, 12:12 PM
IMHO, any venture we make into the first round is to go after Casspi.

I like Casspi too and certainly hope the Spurs can trade up into the 1st round to nab one or the other. However, isn't Young considered THE better player between the two?

benefactor
06-03-2009, 12:24 PM
I like Casspi too and certainly hope the Spurs can trade up into the 1st round to nab one or the other. However, isn't Young considered THE better player between the two?
Right now he probably is. Young is 24yrs old and Casspi isn't even old enough to buy alcohol yet, so that might change in the future. I make the assumption of them taking Casspi because of the Spurs actions regarding him. If they have been following him as closely as some here have indicated, then the only motivation I see them having for moving up is to secure him.

EricB
06-16-2009, 02:49 AM
Well the Pistons are shopping their 15th pick and Amir Johnson. The Spurs are probably going to make a run for that pick. The question is at 15 would the Spurs want Sam Young or maybe a big on the board? I would say B.J. Mullins, but that kid doesn't give a damn. It would be Jackie Butler 2.0

When I said 15th pick and Amir, I meant that it will likely be a package deal. The Pistons will move the 2010 contract of Amir Johnson (who the Spurs have shown interest in) and then combine the 15th pick in the trade.


Interesting.

I was told the supposed player to draft up for would be this guy.

I don't see what makes him so damn special.

Cassipi? Yeah that I can swallow.

But nothing about Young makes him standout from other run of the mill small forwards.

Blackjack
06-17-2009, 01:53 AM
Pre-draft interview with the Warriors:

http://www.nba.com/warriors/news/2009_draft_interview_young.html

Chieflion
06-17-2009, 09:43 AM
Well the Pistons are shopping their 15th pick and Amir Johnson. The Spurs are probably going to make a run for that pick. The question is at 15 would the Spurs want Sam Young or maybe a big on the board? I would say B.J. Mullins, but that kid doesn't give a damn. It would be Jackie Butler 2.0

When I said 15th pick and Amir, I meant that it will likely be a package deal. The Pistons will move the 2010 contract of Amir Johnson (who the Spurs have shown interest in) and then combine the 15th pick in the trade.

I would take Amir Johnson since his contract is ok, and the 15th pick for something that is reasonable, so that the Pistons can sign both Gordon and Boozer which seems fair for both teams.

tav1
06-17-2009, 12:39 PM
Obviously, the Spurs shouldn't make an actual move until draft night. Get everything in order, but then wait to make the call to Dumars until you've guaranteed that one of the players you want is available. If pick 14 comes around and and Casspi, Young, Daye and Blair are on the board, make the call.

Of course, as someone pointed out above, the Spurs may not have what Dumars is looking for, which is a 100% cap dump to a team under the cap. If that's the case, then we are just spinning our wheels. Minnesota at 18 becomes the next most logical spot to move up to, and someone like Casspi may still be available there.

A dream scenario would be landing Carter and the 11, but I seriously doubt that is possible. In fact, I'd bet my mortgage against it. It seems to me that in order for that to happen the Spurs would have to secure another first round pick, such as #15, and include that in the deal.

Blackjack
06-17-2009, 01:04 PM
http://proxy.espn.go.com/sportsnation/chat/_/id/26986/NBA-Insider-Chad-Ford


Ryan (NY. NY)

Is Gerald Henderson this years Courtney Lee?

Chad Ford

No. Sam Young is.

Mr. Body
06-17-2009, 01:08 PM
I loved Courney Lee last year, was sorry he didn't drop past Orlando. I don't get the same feeling with Sam Young.

Blackjack
06-17-2009, 01:15 PM
I hope he was comparing Young's potential impact as a rookie and not their respective games, because I don't see that kind of comparison.

Mr. Body
06-17-2009, 01:18 PM
I hope he was comparing Young's potential impact as a rookie and not their respective games, because I don't see that kind of comparison.

No doubt he was talking impact.

Blackjack
06-17-2009, 01:23 PM
No doubt he was talking impact.

You would hope so, but I've learned not to assume when it comes to some of these guys.:lol

Ditty
06-17-2009, 02:28 PM
wold love to grab sam young to possibly replace bruce

more athletic then bruce also

SenorSpur
06-17-2009, 03:23 PM
I just wonder how the Spurs view Young. I'm curious if they're more hot for Casspi than him? Even if they're unable to nab Casspi, Young would be a nice consolation prize.

Mr. Body
06-17-2009, 03:52 PM
Much rather have Young than Casspi.

SenorSpur
06-17-2009, 04:07 PM
Looks as though he is the more mature player and could be more NBA-ready than Casspi.

Mr. Body
06-17-2009, 04:17 PM
Exactly. I'd not expect anything from Casspi for years, even being on the team. Young could contribute much, much faster.

SenorSpur
06-17-2009, 04:34 PM
And we all know the Spurs need help at the SF position - NOW!

loveforthegame
06-17-2009, 08:20 PM
Too good to be true that we could get an athletic small forward.

Keeps fingers crossed anyway.

Blackjack
06-20-2009, 01:16 AM
College, NBA Draft / Jun 18, 2009

Sam Young is the next Josh Howard

By Austin Burton

*Reprinted from Dime #49’s NBA Draft Preview*

You know how Sam Young story is going to go. Sometime around January 2013, when Young is starting for a contender and his name is beginning to surface in All-Star talk, the mainstream will catch on: Who is Sam Young? How did everybody miss this guy? People’s Exhibit 397 that the Draft is an inexact science: Sam Young.

If that sounds a lot like Josh Howard’s story, that’s because it is. Look at the similarities between the two. Barely recruited at the original high schools, both went to Hargrave Military Academy (Chatham, Va.) and grew into legit D-1 prospects. They signed with underdog major-conference programs destined to be overshadowed in their own state. They produced impeccable four-year college resumes (Young was Big East tourney MVP as a junior, third team All-American as a senior). They underwhelmed pre-draft workout observers as classic “Good at everything, great at nothing” types, buried — in the only profession besides modeling and gymnastics where 24 is too old — by underclassmen with more mystery/potential. The rest is yet to be told, but Young will probably also get picked later than he’s supposed to, and will probably make somebody regret it someday.

At a rangy 6-6, 210, Young was one of the most sophisticated scorers in college ball, working that Globetrotters pump-fake, reliable jumper and strength going to the rack to buy himself 19 points a night in the Big East. Throw in sticky defense, toughness and leadership of one of the country’s best teams, and he’s got “pro” written all over him.

Young won’t make much of a ripple on Draft Night, though. He probably won’t be in the Green Room, and might wait an hour or so too long for his phone to ring. But when it does, the NBA team on the other end should be proud of itself for taking a future All-Star.


http://dimemag.com/2009/06/sam-young-is-the-next-josh-howard/

bigdog
06-20-2009, 07:46 AM
Hell, if they're comparing this guy to Josh Howard, WE NEED HIM (minus the weed-smoking). We desperately need a SF, and not just any SF, an athletic one. RC and Pop better be taking a serious look at this guy.

SenorSpur
06-20-2009, 02:37 PM
The Spurs find themselves in this predicament at the SF position mainly because the chose NOT to take Josh Howard way back in 2003. As far as I'm concerned, if this kid Sam Young, compares measurably to Howard, the Spurs MUST maneuver their way into the middle-to-late 1st round and nab this guy and don't look back. If his skills pan out as advertised, he could very well be a starter on this team by the end of next season.

HarlemHeat37
06-20-2009, 03:13 PM
I would be very disappointed if we moved up, but took Casspi ahead of him..

ginobilized
06-20-2009, 04:13 PM
How could this happen? Who would need/want one or more of our old pieces?

Mr.Bottomtooth
06-20-2009, 04:14 PM
We would buy the pick.

Blackjack
06-20-2009, 07:47 PM
Sam Young-

Height without shoes - 6' 5.25"

Height with shoes - 6' 6.75"

Weight - 223

Wingspan - 6' 10.75"

Standing Reach - 8' 9.5"

For a comparison:

Josh Howard-

Height without shoes - 6' 5.25"

Height with shoes - 6' 6.5"

Weight - 202

Wingspan - 7' 2"

Standing Reach - 8' 9.5"

I don't think there games really compare all that favorably but their backgrounds/path to the draft do. (Something, I really didn't consider when comparing their respective measurements.)


The Spurs find themselves in this predicament at the SF position mainly because the chose NOT to take Josh Howard way back in 2003. As far as I'm concerned, if this kid Sam Young, compares measurably to Howard, the Spurs MUST maneuver their way into the middle-to-late 1st round and nab this guy and don't look back. If his skills pan out as advertised, he could very well be a starter on this team by the end of next season.

He'd definitely be able to contribute as soon as next year, and I'd love to see him on the Spurs, but I wouldn't be all that disappointed with Brown.

Claver's upside would be hard to pass on and Casspi's talent and apparent competitive fire definitely have me intrigued, but the Spurs have got to way the pro's and con's.

If you take Casspi, and he comes over right away, he could probably contribute, but how much? And just how far along is he in terms of development? (Both physically and in skillset). He's been playing quite well in a league that is significanty better than the college level and seems to have all the requisite measurements and talent, but when you've got to win now, can you really take that chance?

If you take Claver, you're taking someone whose talent and potential is too great in your eyes to pass up at that stage of the draft. You've come to the conclusion that whatever contributors you need for next year are on the team, in the fold, or vets ready to be acquired.

Guys like Young and Brown are guy's you know are ready physically and more of a known quantity, overall. Safer, more picks of need, even if they do bring some upside. They're probably the type of players that are more conducive to plugging in a system and helping you to win now, so they would definitely make more sense in the shot-term. (Which, quite frankly, might be all that matters when you're talking about the opportunity to win championships)

So, it's either picking someone who might have a lower ceiling and a better potential to help you now, or taking the best potential talent available and trusting that the piece/pieces you need are in the fold or capable of being acquired.

At least, that's the way I see it.

HarlemHeat37
06-20-2009, 08:10 PM
New Orleans is looking to sell their pick IIRC, I don't know if they would sell it to us though, probably not..

ffadicted
06-20-2009, 10:57 PM
I'm not sold on young. I don't think he has the size to help us where we need most.

For the record, not sold on Casspi either

Obstructed_View
06-20-2009, 11:22 PM
New Orleans is looking to sell their pick IIRC, I don't know if they would sell it to us though, probably not..

Given NO's lust for ex-Spur players, perhaps a trade is in order?

Blackjack
06-20-2009, 11:46 PM
http://www.nbadraft.net/node/7444

I'm pretty sure this has been posted in another thread but...

Buyers and Sellers

Expect a flurry of action on draft night, which has become the norm in recent years, and a number of first and second rounders to be sold and traded.

Teams with multiple picks such as Sacramento (23), Oklahoma City (25) and Chicago (26) are all looking to sell their picks according to sources. While three other teams would like to buy picks late in the first round: San Antonio, Detroit and Houston.

Joe Dumars has his eye on Toney Douglas and would like to pick up a late first to grab him. San Antonio is likely after Victor Claver who suspiciously remained in the draft, despite a lackluster and injury plagued season. No word on who Houston is after, but Rockets GM Daryl Moray was on hand in Treviso as Swedish SF Jonas Jerebko put on an excellent performance.

Mal
12-15-2010, 10:09 PM
Is he avaible ? Isnt he better than Udoka ? He isnt playing even in gargabe time. 2nd round pick for him ?

mountainballer
12-16-2010, 04:32 AM
2nd round pick from the Spurs means #60 pick at this point. why should even a pretty dumb GM like Wallace do this?
Young is still providing roster depth on low cost for the Grizzlies.
they will ask for the 1st rounder. (which is btw. going to be pretty low anyhow and the 2011 draft is looking pretty bad.)

but I don't see them do a trade with Young right now. reportedly they are shopping Thabeet and there might even be some talks involving Mayo. they will wait to trade players like Young, because they might need them as filler/teaser in a bigger scenario, or a trade could also free some PT for those players. (talking also about Carroll, Vasquez, Arthur etc.)

mountainballer
12-22-2010, 06:44 AM
Young got another DNP, after playing one good (Rockets) and one decent game (Spurs) in the games before. really no idea what plan Hollins follows.

Mal
12-22-2010, 11:21 AM
Spurs should ask for him. Worse then Udoka he isnt

yavozerb
12-22-2010, 11:24 AM
Spurs should ask for him. Worse then Udoka he isnt

They can ask all they want. The spurs have a very little to offer this season in trades and with the team playing well, I do not see the spurs doing much of anything. With that said, its always fun to talk trades.....:flag:

Bruno
12-24-2010, 10:46 AM
Spurs still have played 22 games without Anderson. If, for example, he comes back on January 19th, Spurs only have 12 games left without him. It's now a little pointless to do a trade for an Anderson stopgap. And when Anderson will be back, I rather gave the backup SF minutes to him than to Young and Neal also deserves to play so there won't be available minutes for Young.

All in all, I don't really see the interest of a trade for Young unless Anderson has a setback in his rehab.

jjktkk
12-24-2010, 03:38 PM
spurs still have played 22 games without anderson. If, for example, he comes back on january 19th, spurs only have 12 games left without him. It's now a little pointless to do a trade for an anderson stopgap. And when anderson will be back, i rather gave the backup sf minutes to him than to young and neal also deserves to play so there won't be available minutes for young.

All in all, i don't really see the interest of a trade for young unless anderson has a setback in his rehab.

+1.

Blackjack
12-24-2010, 04:20 PM
Agree. :tu

The team's depth is plenty strong on the wing to add someone of Young's caliber, I'm perfectly content to go with Anderson and Neal; and I also believe it's the Spurs' best bet for this year.

Sans Martell Webster, Ariza, Pietrus, Afflalo or any other unlikely trade candidate, the Spurs aren't going to do any better. That's my belief, at least . . .

Darkwaters
12-25-2010, 05:06 PM
Agree. :tu

The team's depth is plenty strong on the wing to add someone of Young's caliber, I'm perfectly content to go with Anderson and Neal; and I also believe it's the Spurs' best bet for this year.

Sans Martell Webster, Ariza, Pietrus, Afflalo or any other unlikely trade candidate, the Spurs aren't going to do any better. That's my belief, at least . . .

+1

You and Bruno have it pegged. Unless his rehab is delayed, we're already through the majority of his outage time. Why trade now? Barring of course another injury to a different wing.

mountainballer
12-26-2010, 12:12 PM
I have to disagree friends.
building some depth can't be a bad thing. not at any price of course.
but if the price for a player like Young was low, I can't see a reason why not do it. remember, Spurs play currently Udoka. any team that needs to play Udoka can use an upgrade at wing depth. we also can't know what Anderson will deliver, if he is back in time. hopefully he will go on where he started in the first 7 games, but who knows. he is still a rookie. in other words, I would feel better about this team, if we can get a little more depth at the wing. (Young is just one name, but the Spurs liked him in the 2009 draft, so there is some reason to mention him). if we can trade for Young at a low price, I also don't see a problem, if Anderson comes back, takes back the minutes and Young is our insurance. it wouldn't be the first time that a team needs to compensate for more than one major injury. as long as it doesn't cost a boatload of money to be prepared, it's better to be prepared.

Mal
01-16-2011, 12:05 PM
My men, Sam Young , played good game vs Mavs. Starting, got 9 pts, 4 bs. Maybe Memphis just realized what a player they got. I really think he is worth 1st round pick.

timtonymanurich
01-16-2011, 06:18 PM
Spurs should ask for him. Worse then Udoka he isnt

Thank you, Yoda.:rolleyes

Mal
01-16-2011, 06:28 PM
Thank you, Yoda.:rolleyes

Now coming, when he had better game... Where were you when he was sitting as 11th Grizzli in rotation ?

ChuckD
01-17-2011, 07:03 AM
Thank you, Yoda.:rolleyes

I wonder if you could write as well in Mal's primary language. It isn't English, and sometimes other languages put their nouns and verbs in different order.

DeadlyDynasty
01-19-2011, 07:27 AM
My men, Sam Young , played good game vs Mavs. Starting, got 9 pts, 4 bs. Maybe Memphis just realized what a player they got. I really think he is worth 1st round pick.

Agreed...had season tickets to Pitt his last 2 seasons and he was a joy to watch.