Official San Antonio Spurs 2021 NBA Draft Discussion Thread

[Mr. Body]

I would agree. Kispert pretty much disappeared against Baylor's NBA-like athletes.

Someone's gonna bite on Kispert and make a mistake. Teams get into a group-think and talk certain players up. Meanwhile, Gonzaga players aren't generally that great anyway. They get a lot of press beating up on their shitty conference.

[timvp]

What the Spurs need is glaring. #30 in the league in 3ptrs made.

Field goals made, better than average, #11.

Free throws made, better than average, #9.

Total rebounds, a little below average, #18.

Assists, average, #16.

Avoiding turnovers, excellent, #2.

Steals, below average; blocks, above average; avoiding personal fouls, well above average, etc.

But 3pt shots made, dead last. The team needs long range shooters - who are not hopeless on defense.

I'm not a huge Kispert fan but I like him better than I liked Nesmith, who was last year's three-point marksman available in the late lottery. It looks like he's a legit 6-foot-7 with a fast release and decent (or at least non-terrible) athleticism.

Given San Antonio's desperation for shooting, I couldn't be mad about picking Kispert. The lack of shooting is getting so bad that I'd argue it's already impacting the potential for other players to develop. If Patty leaves, the lack of shooting would be even more of an emergency.


Someone's gonna bite on Kispert and make a mistake. Teams get into a group-think and talk certain players up. Meanwhile, Gonzaga players aren't generally that great anyway. They get a lot of press beating up on their shitty conference.

Which Gonzaga players are you referencing, tbh? The only flop recently was Zach Collins and that was 99% due to injuries. Of the top of my head, the rest (Sabonis, Clarke, Rui, Olynyk) at the very least lived up to their draft position.

[DAF86]

Spurs' 3pt shooting should improve once DeRozan GTFO and Vassell starts, tbh.

[Mr. Body]

Which Gonzaga players are you referencing, tbh? The only flop recently was Zach Collins and that was 99% due to injuries. Of the top of my head, the rest (Sabonis, Clarke, Rui, Olynyk) at the very least lived up to their draft position.

All of them? I forgot Sabonis went to Gonzaga, but the rest... meh. I don't dislike any of them, but they certainly haven't set the world on fire. I'm not picking a guy simply because he went to Zaga that's for sure.

[mo7888]

I'm not a huge Kispert fan but I like him better than I liked Nesmith, who was last year's three-point marksman available in the late lottery. It looks like he's a legit 6-foot-7 with a fast release and decent (or at least non-terrible) athleticism.

Given San Antonio's desperation for shooting, I couldn't be mad about picking Kispert. The lack of shooting is getting so bad that I'd argue it's already impacting the potential for other players to develop. If Patty leaves, the lack of shooting would be even more of an emergency.



Which Gonzaga players are you referencing, tbh? The only flop recently was Zach Collins and that was 99% due to injuries. Of the top of my head, the rest (Sabonis, Clarke, Rui, Olynyk) at the very least lived up to their draft position.

I agree with you on the lack of shooting being a desperate need but, we can address that in FA with guys like McDermott, OPJ, Fournier, types to give us spacing to aid in the development of the guys on the roster. So, while I'm not personally down on Kispert I don't think we should take him just because of shooting over someone like Wagner who I think is a better player.

[R. DeMurre]

One comp for Sengun I saw recently was Luis Scola. That oughta get the ol' Spurstalk blood flowin'.

[Mr. Body]

One comp for Sengun I saw recently was Luis Scola. That oughta get the ol' Spurstalk blood flowin'.

Maybe we an trade him for Vassilis Spanoulis Jr.

[PhantomDashCam]

Wanted to post a little info. about Kai Jones. Really enjoy listening to him talk about life outside of basketball. His athleticism is simply jaw dropping.


https://youtu.be/6OEuB-qD1mQ

Then there’s this highlight montage from various scrimmages prior to the most recent collegiate season.

As many have stated, guys always look good in highlight reels but the clay is there to be sculpted, and in the right hands, with his work ethic…

https://twitter.com/242_jones/status/1275170169330044928?s=20

[PhantomDashCam]

And for those who like their intel. in written form, (part puff piece but some useful morsels):

https://www.kazirise.com/2021/05/10/texas-and-nassau-forever/


Before 2021 Big 12 Sixth Man of the Year Kai Jones became a household name among Texas basketball fans, he had to get some sightseeing in along the way. From growing up in Nassau, to moving to the States when he was eleven, to taking a postgraduate year at the renowned Brewster Academy,

Jones is your guy if you have any questions about frequent-flyer miles.“Kai… has probably had more twists and turns in terms of his journey as a young man, as a basketball player in the past several years than anyone,” Texas coach Shaka Smart noted in an interview with Longhorn Weekly early into Jones’ freshman season. “Fortunately the recruiting process worked out and now here he is.”

Navigating through a Jordan-esque series of events as a kid, Jones was cut from his sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade basketball teams before finding his stride later in high school.

[Dejounte]

Meh, Kai reminds me of Precious Achiuwa. Had a lot of these workout videos that made him look like a wing or to be a Giannis type (probably even more impressive than these videos you shared) and then nothing.

[look_at_g_shred]

Safe pick: Sengun/Wagner/Giddey
High Risk/High Reward: Jones

I'd be fine with any of these 4

[Dejounte]

Safe pick: Sengun/Wagner/Giddey
High Risk/High Reward: Jones

I'd be fine with any of these 4

Add Moses and Bouk in there and this draft is looking like it's the perfect one to be drafting in the #11 to 15 range. Plenty of good options. Obviously less likely more than one of those six will be there at 15, but still.

[Dejounte]

2021 projected #11 to #15 group: Sengun, Moody, Franz, Giddey, Kai, Bouk

>>>>>

2020 actual #11 to #15 group: Vassell, Haliburton, Kira Lewis, Aaron Nesmith, Cole Anthony, Isaiah Stewart, Poku, Saddiq Bey

Former would beat the latter in a basketball game, IMO

[Russ]

As many have stated, guys always look good in highlight reels but the clay is there to be sculpted, and in the right hands, with his work ethic…



That may be why Kai would be a good fit for the Spurs -- they literally mold players with unfinished talent more than other orgs. And with that island background, history beckons . . .

I have always believed that Kawhi would have been a different player -- had a different career path -- if he had been drafted by another team. They literally created him.

Kai may not make it, but it seems more likely he'll be viewed as a bargain if he lands in the right spot.

[Dejounte]

That may be why Kai would be a good fit for the Spurs -- they literally mold players with unfinished talent more than other orgs. And with that island background, history beckons . . .

I have always believed that Kawhi would have been a different player -- had a different career path -- if he had been drafted by another team. They literally created him.

Kai may not make it, but it seems more likely he'll be viewed as a bargain if he lands in the right spot.

Refined is the better word. Kawhi had plenty of skills in college. It's a bad myth to say he was some raw player when he already had his fadeaway in college, his pull up J, and more. It was clear he was watching tapes in college of MJ and Kobe, it was foolish for scouts not to see it.

Last players with unfinished talent that the Spurs took on: Murray, Lonnie. . . do you think Spurs fans are patient enough to wait 3-4 years to see Kai blossom? They're already down on Murray and Lonnie and calling them players with role player ceilings by year 3.

[Dejounte]

New Giddey article:

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31439966/2021-nba-draft-how-one-year-nbl-turned-australia-josh-giddey-potential-lottery-pick

"I heard him say in an interview that he compares himself to me a little bit, and I was like, dude, you're crazy, because you're so much f---ing better than I was at that age," Ingles told ESPN with a laugh."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"A lot of my talent was that I was OK and good at a lot of things but I wasn't great at anything," Ingles said. "It wasn't like, this team needs to bring me over because I'm an elite 3-point shooter or an elite defender or a playmaker."
Whereas Ingles didn't have one elite skill to bring to the NBA floor as an 18-year-old, Giddey is already arguably the best passer in the 2021 draft class, which should translate from day one in the NBA. Watching film with him over Zoom, he sees everything a step ahead. Although not always as flashy as a Ball or Auburn standout Sharife Cooper (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432173/sharife-cooper), Giddey is unselfish with his hit-aheads.
"It's almost kind of like what people saw with LaMelo in the NBL like, kicking the ball ahead regardless of who it was," Ingles said of Giddey. "If it was the right play to make, he was making it."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------


"He can get his feet in the paint whenever he wants. He finds ways to do it," Clarke said. "That's the bigger piece, is what's going on between his ears. To look at situations, figure out and solve problems, that's a transferable skill."
Everyone from Doncic to Jayson Tatum (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4065648/jayson-tatum) and Nikola Jokic (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3112335/nikola-jokic) to Stephen Curry (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3975/stephen-curry) faced questions about their traditional "athleticism" coming into the NBA. As Bogut described, Jokic has "a body of a guy that you'd have some beers with at the local pub." Ingles also plays at a fairly slow pace, but because of his skill level, size, court vision and shooting, he is incredibly effective.
"The 'if you're not athletic you're not getting drafted or you're not going to make it in the NBA anymore' [line of thinking], I think that's completely gone," Ingles said. "If you can play and you're a smart player and you know how to get the job done, you can play in the NBA."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Russ]

Refined is the better word. Kawhi had plenty of skills in college. It's a bad myth to say he was some raw player when he already had his fadeaway in college, his pull up J, and more. It was clear he was watching tapes in college of MJ and Kobe, it was foolish for scouts not to see it.

Last players with unfinished talent that the Spurs took on: Murray, Lonnie. . . do you think Spurs fans are patient enough to wait 3-4 years to see Kai blossom? They're already down on Murray and Lonnie and calling them players with role player ceilings by year 3.

Didn't mean to imply I didn't think Kawhi was a great player in college, I did.

Here's what I said in real time the night we drafted him:


This is the best draft night since Parker.

(And it aint even done.) :)

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=181950&page=24&p=5319754&viewfull=1#post5319754


The word brilliant comes to mind. :flag:

(But condolences to the local tatoo parlors. :depressed)

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=181950&page=21&p=5319625&viewfull=1#post5319625


Someone call the cops.

https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=181950&page=25&p=5319797&viewfull=1#post5319797

(And there were plenty of doubters that night.)

[SAGirl]

That may be why Kai would be a good fit for the Spurs -- they literally mold players with unfinished talent more than other orgs. And with that island background, history beckons . . .

I have always believed that Kawhi would have been a different player -- had a different career path -- if he had been drafted by another team. They literally created him.

Kai may not make it, but it seems more likely he'll be viewed as a bargain if he lands in the right spot.

That's giving too much credit to the coach and not enough to the player tbh. He put in the work obsessively in the offseason, and he had a very special quality. I remember seeing interviews from Pop who said, that he was like a sponge. You can show him video of a HOF using a move to score and he would go and work out and practice and be able to learn it. Even Pop recognized (prior to the famous rift) that Kawhi was not a common scenario, that you can't just take any player show him videos and expect that he will emulate and be able to learn to play like a HOF player, copying moves and all that.

I know he deservedly earned ill will in the Spurs with his exit, but you may find yourself disappointed when few others can copy his impressive learning and rise. It's going to take a special player to develop into a star. He may look raw and unifinished offensively right now, but the ability to learn is unique, who has it? That's the question team scouts get paid to answer I think.

[PhantomDashCam]

Meh, Kai reminds me of Precious Achiuwa. Had a lot of these workout videos that made him look like a wing or to be a Giannis type (probably even more impressive than these videos you shared) and then nothing.

For me, Precious always looked very mechanical with the ball in his hands. I never really thought much of him in interviews either.
I just think it’s unrealistic to think every draft pick is going to blow up in their rookie year, even one as old (credentialed?) as Obi Toppin. I still think they should be judged on a 3 year window based on performance relative to draft position.

Precious has a chance to be solid but I never liked him in the draft.

I think Kai is still figuring out how to play and what position is right for him. I would like to see the Spurs encourage that development.

It would be the riskiest pick the Spurs have made in sometime but it’s unlikely that whoever we draft is going to contribute significantly and immediately anyway.

[SAGirl]

Refined is the better word. Kawhi had plenty of skills in college. It's a bad myth to say he was some raw player when he already had his fadeaway in college, his pull up J, and more. It was clear he was watching tapes in college of MJ and Kobe, it was foolish for scouts not to see it.

Last players with unfinished talent that the Spurs took on: Murray, Lonnie. . . do you think Spurs fans are patient enough to wait 3-4 years to see Kai blossom? They're already down on Murray and Lonnie and calling them players with role player ceilings by year 3.
And that's if they can blossom. They have also taken raw atheletes like Metu and Samanic and we see what has happened. Samanic still has hope because he was a first round pick. If he had only two years to develop in the team before they have to decide whether to extend him like Metu did, I don't think Samanic makes it. He's still a very raw athlete.

[SAGirl]

I found one interview that references what I said. There is another one, where Pop specifically uses the word sponge to refer to Kawhi (while he was still in the team, I think Pop was trying to prop Kawhi up for MIP at the time and even for MVP), but this one still gets the same point across that I was making.

In addition, this interview is so interesting in the context of talking about draft picks because he says how when they get a guy drafted they don't really know what he's going to turn into. Anyways, for reference here it is. Enjoy.

1190081229334315009

FWIW, It doesn't tell us anything about whether Kai is going to pan out tbh. He might, if he is obsessive about his development and has the special ability to learn.

[Dejounte]

I found one interview that references what I said. There is another one, where Pop specifically uses the word sponge to refer to Kawhi (while he was still in the team, I think Pop was trying to prop Kawhi up for MIP at the time and even for MVP), but this one still gets the same point across that I was making.

In addition, this interview is so interesting in the context of talking about draft picks because he says how when they get a guy drafted they don't really know what he's going to turn into. Anyways, for reference here it is. Enjoy.

1190081229334315009

FWIW, It doesn't tell us anything about whether Kai is going to pan out tbh. He might, if he is obsessive about his development and has the special ability to learn.

I'll say Kawhi's most similar rise was Kobe. I wouldn't call it just "work ethic", I think it's psychological. Kawhi and Kobe both have/ had an obsessive copy cat disorder. I think these kinds of guys come every 10 years. I'd say they're hard to scout because you really have to understand who they are as a person to understand their ability to soak the finest details. It's why I think the Spurs place emphasis on good character. . . players who are good people are usually more receptive to other people's teachings. A player can have the best work ethic in the world, but if their psychological makeup is messy (Murray, for example), then it is more difficult to reach that potential. Not saying it's impossible, and maybe it just takes longer for those people.

[jjspur]

The spurs 3 point shooting is pretty bad so I wouldn't argue with taking Kispert or even Franz Wagner if they are available. The question is do you want to pay Kispert or Wagner at their 11-14 position or do you prefer to pay a free agent Mcdermott or Fournier a lot more money for an older player who will probably shoot roughly the same 3 pt. percentage. Neither of theses guys are all that great defensively. Do we need another 3 and D player ?

[mo7888]

The spurs 3 point shooting is pretty bad so I wouldn't argue with taking Kispert or even Franz Wagner if they are available. The question is do you want to pay Kispert or Wagner at their 11-14 position or do you prefer to pay a free agent Mcdermott or Fournier a lot more money for an older player who will probably shoot roughly the same 3 pt. percentage. Neither of theses guys are all that great defensively. Do we need another 3 and D player ?

You do both if you draft Kispert or Wagner... sign OPJ, Fournier, or McDermott types so you can have spacing....just sign them on 2 year contracts.

[Russ]

I'll say Kawhi's most similar rise was Kobe. I wouldn't call it just "work ethic", I think it's psychological. Kawhi and Kobe both have/ had an obsessive copy cat disorder. I think these kinds of guys come every 10 years. I'd say they're hard to scout because you really have to understand who they are as a person to understand their ability to soak the finest details. It's why I think the Spurs place emphasis on good character. . . players who are good people are usually more receptive to other people's teachings. A player can have the best work ethic in the world, but if their psychological makeup is messy (Murray, for example), then it is more difficult to reach that potential. Not saying it's impossible, and maybe it just takes longer for those people.

I kind of agree with the "disorder" part but maybe not so much the "good character" part.

Guys like Kobe and Kawhi are almost literally sociopaths, there's something missing that they replace with cut-throat competitiveness. The need to prevail, to impose oneself, is an actual need. You can't create that if it isn't there.

Dr. Jack Ramsey, who loved David Robinson as a person, always hesitated when asked to evaluate him as a ballplayer.

Dr. Jack would finally say, "There are qualities that make us good people in almost all other aspects of life, but those same qualities, in the less-important world of competitive basketball are not the most ideal."

And he loved Big Dave just like all of us.

[Dejounte]

I kind of agree with the "disorder" part but maybe not so much the "good character" part.

Guys like Kobe and Kawhi are almost literally sociopaths, there's something missing that they replace with cut-throat competitiveness. The need to prevail, to impose oneself, is an actual need. You can't create that if it isn't there.

Dr. Jack Ramsey, who loved David Robinson as a person, always hesitated when asked to evaluate him as a ballplayer.

Dr. Jack would finally say, "There are qualities that make us good people in almost all other aspects of life, but those same qualities, in the less-important world of competitive basketball are not the most ideal."

And he loved Big Dave just like all of us.

True, the good character part is probably more to make sure the player stays after his rookie contract.

[The Truth #6]

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

38% 3P
89%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’8” SF Julian Champagnie from St. John’s: https://youtu.be/eGbFZn-Jkto

[Dejounte]

How else do you scout for that potential perfectionist/ obsessive copy cat psychological make-up?

I think another way is to see their progression as a basketball player. Have they been improving year to year? Derrick White is an example of this. Another key thing to look out for for potential Spurs players in the draft.

[Dejounte]

Sean Elliott on the current young core:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"When I look at this team, I just see a young ball club that makes a lot of mistakes. That's just part of it," said Elliott. "They're coming in without having the fundamentals drilled into them over and over again."
Vassell played two seasons at Florida State as did Jones at Duke. Murray played one year at Washington while Walker did the same at Miami as did Johnson at Kentucky. White is the only member of the young core to play four years at the college level between Colorado and University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Compare that to Duncan (four years at Wake Fornest) and Ginobili and Parker who played at the pro-level before making the leap to the NBA. The trio came in the NBA with fundamentals in check.
"They're just really raw," Elliott said. "At this level, Pop doesn't have time to teach fundamentals everyday in practice. he's got to teach plays and schemes and things like that."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://news4sanantonio.com/sports/spurs-zone/sean-elliott-big-3-era-spoiled-everyone-young-spurs-still-trying-to-figure-things-out


There it is. What I've been saying all along. . . fundamentals is #1, hence why they drafted Vassell last year. I think that will be the priority again this year.

I think it's a big myth that players who are more polished than others have low ceilings. I look at Vassell, and there's plenty to build upon with his skillset. The plus side is, his basketball IQ is already a step ahead of most and that will help him reach a higher level.

IMO,

2021 Prospects with fundamentals:
Cade
Mobley
Suggs
Kispert
Mitchell
Sengun
Wagner
Moody
Bouknight
Duarte

2021 Prospects with glaringly bad fundamentals (players who will need to be "taught" basketball more than others):

Jalen Green
Scottie Barnes
Jalen Johnson
Ziaire Williams
Kai Jones
Greg Brown

*unlisted players are somewhere in between and/or I didn't watch enough

[The Truth #6]

Dejounte: being a gym rat is probably a shared trait. But teams have been using psychological evaluations since the 1970s, so perhaps they have ways to at least try to gauge this. Improving year to year makes sense, but I see White as the opposite of a sociopath.

[Dejounte]

Dejounte: being a gym rat is probably a shared trait. But teams have been using psychological evaluations since the 1970s, so perhaps they have ways to at least try to gauge this. Improving year to year makes sense, but I see White as the opposite of a sociopath.

IMO, the way White reacts to his mistakes on the court gave me an impression that he's one of those "sociopaths". He looks like he thinks about it really hard (more than others) and tries to correct it on the next play. I think his problem, what we all know by now, is his confidence. When White is good, he's really good. . . almost takeover mode as we see sometimes when Murray or Lonnie get hot.

[timvp]

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

38% 3P
89%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’8” SF Julian Champagnie from St. John’s: https://youtu.be/eGbFZn-Jkto

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

43% 3P
93%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’9” SF Trey Murphy III from from Virginia

or

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

38% 3P
88%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’8” SF Kessler Edwards from Pepperdine





Seriously, though, it looks like the Spurs should be able to get a good prospect in the second round. There are a lot of big, reasonably athletic shooters that could drop into the early 40s.

[rjv]

Sean Elliott on the current young core:

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"When I look at this team, I just see a young ball club that makes a lot of mistakes. That's just part of it," said Elliott. "They're coming in without having the fundamentals drilled into them over and over again."
Vassell played two seasons at Florida State as did Jones at Duke. Murray played one year at Washington while Walker did the same at Miami as did Johnson at Kentucky. White is the only member of the young core to play four years at the college level between Colorado and University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Compare that to Duncan (four years at Wake Fornest) and Ginobili and Parker who played at the pro-level before making the leap to the NBA. The trio came in the NBA with fundamentals in check.
"They're just really raw," Elliott said. "At this level, Pop doesn't have time to teach fundamentals everyday in practice. he's got to teach plays and schemes and things like that."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

https://news4sanantonio.com/sports/spurs-zone/sean-elliott-big-3-era-spoiled-everyone-young-spurs-still-trying-to-figure-things-out


There it is. What I've been saying all along. . . fundamentals is #1, hence why they drafted Vassell last year. I think that will be the priority again this year.

I think it's a big myth that players who are more polished than others have low ceilings. I look at Vassell, and there's plenty to build upon with his skillset. The plus side is, his basketball IQ is already a step ahead of most and that will help him reach a higher level.

IMO,

2021 Prospects with fundamentals:
Cade
Mobley
Suggs
Kispert
Mitchell
Sengun
Wagner
Moody
Bouknight
Duarte

2021 Prospects with glaringly bad fundamentals (players who will need to be "taught" basketball more than others):

Jalen Green
Scottie Barnes
Jalen Johnson
Ziaire Williams
Kai Jones
Greg Brown

*unlisted players are somewhere in between and/or I didn't watch enough

this is a nice breakdown. that being said, we do also need to fill needs-whether through the draft or FA. on the spurslandia podcast with dan patrick as the guest, patrick made the argument that pop has been reluctant to adapt to the new NBA to which bonner replied that this isn't the case. matt just asserted that the current roster just doesn't have prolific three-point shooters. this is where some of the players that could fall to the spurs, such as sengun, wouldn't help to address that problem. which is fine if that is an issue that FA can eventually address.

[The Truth #6]

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

43% 3P
93%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’9” SF Trey Murphy III from from Virginia

or

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

38% 3P
88%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’8” SF Kessler Edwards from Pepperdine





Seriously, though, it looks like the Spurs should be able to get a good prospect in the second round. There are a lot of big, reasonably athletic shooters that could drop into the early 40s.

What, no YouTube videos? Ha.

[exstatic]

Safe pick: Sengun/Wagner/Giddey
High Risk/High Reward: Jones

I'd be fine with any of these 4

To me, Giddey isn’t safe, at all. He’s an average to below average athlete in NBA terms, and a bad shooter. I mean, there isn’t even the glimmer of hope at the FT line. He’s bad there, too. To get good passing angles, he’s going to have to be played as a credible scorer by NBA defenses. I don’t think they will after maybe the first time around.

[exstatic]

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

43% 3P
93%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’9” SF Trey Murphy III from from Virginia

or

Rather than Kispert, I’d consider this guy in the second round.

38% 3P
88%FT

He takes deep threes, too, off the dribble.

6’8” SF Kessler Edwards from Pepperdine





Seriously, though, it looks like the Spurs should be able to get a good prospect in the second round. There are a lot of big, reasonably athletic shooters that could drop into the early 40s.

I’ve studied both of those guys, and there are a lot of things to like about both. I’d give the edge to Trey. Better shooting and really good off ball defensive instincts, not to mention actual forward size.

[Degoat]

No word on the coin flip yet??

[exstatic]

No word on the coin flip yet??

Tankathon hasn’t updated yet.

[rjv]

To me, Giddey isn’t safe, at all. He’s an average to below average athlete in NBA terms, and a bad shooter. I mean, there isn’t even the glimmer of hope at the FT line. He’s bad there, too. To get good passing angles, he’s going to have to be played as a credible scorer by NBA defenses. I don’t think they will after maybe the first time around.

giddey seems to be the current pick trending on some of the more recently updated mock drafts. i did see one for garuba.

[ace3g]

No word on the coin flip yet??

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1394386509688619013

[200 miles]

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1394386509688619013

So, just to be clear, if the Hornets get into the playoffs and the Spurs lose in the play-in, would that mean there wouldn't be a coin flip and the Spurs would get the 11th pick or what?

[exstatic]

Googled it, and no results. My guess is that they’re holding the results for the telecast tonight.

[Degoat]

Googled it, and no results. My guess is that they’re holding the results for the telecast tonight.

I just realized the tweet says May 25th for the coin flip lol

[exstatic]

So, just to be clear, if the Hornets get into the playoffs and the Spurs lose in the play-in, would that mean there wouldn't be a coin flip and the Spurs would get the 11th pick or what?

They have probably done the flip already, and are waiting until TV time tonight to announce. It was supposed to happen ‘early afternoon Tuesday’. No announcement yet.

[rjv]

am i missing something with the coin flip? don't they have to wait until after the play-in games are played?

[timvp]

So, just to be clear, if the Hornets get into the playoffs and the Spurs lose in the play-in, would that mean there wouldn't be a coin flip and the Spurs would get the 11th pick or what?

Correct.


Not to confuse things further but it's still theoretically possible to win the coin flip and end up with 12 or 13 based on what happens with the lottery. For example, Spurs win the coin flip but then Charlotte and Memphis move into the top four picks. That'd push the Spurs to 13. Really, really unlikely but possible.

[rjv]

LeVert is out for the pacers, btw, so that may help the hornets chances for at least tonight.

[Sugus]

One comp for Sengun I saw recently was Luis Scola. That oughta get the ol' Spurstalk blood flowin'.

I'm fucking sold, tbh

[Thomas82]

LeVert is out for the pacers, btw, so that may help the hornets chances for at least tonight.

Last I saw the Pacers were up 24 at the half.

[Dejounte]

Are the Hornets really this bad or are the Pacers this good? Spurs may have a chance tomorrow. Anything can happen.

[SAGirl]

Are the Hornets really this bad or are the Pacers this good? Spurs may have a chance tomorrow. Anything can happen.
Hornets have been horrible defending the 3, and in general losing guys on cuts. Playing Gleague defense out there.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/Mike_Schmitz/status/1394736187462537223

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1394787071433318400

[bluebellmaniac]

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1394787071433318400

Is that some kind of April Fool's article? Are they that dumb?

[rjv]

Last I saw the Pacers were up 24 at the half.

Yeah. Hornets were a no show.

[Degoat]

Is that some kind of April Fool's article? Are they that dumb?

I’m confused why would that be dumb? They’re college seniors right

[bluebellmaniac]

I’m confused why would that be dumb? They’re college seniors right

No, you're right. They have nothing to lose at that point.

[Degoat]

No, you're right. They have nothing to lose at that point.

It is crazy that there’s 100 seniors applying for early entry for the draft tho I mean I’m sure it’s like that a lot but I bet a very small fraction of them get drafted or ever even see an NBA court

[Thomas82]

Yeah. Hornets were a no show.

I expected a much closer game than that.

[R. DeMurre]

It is crazy that there’s 100 seniors applying for early entry for the draft tho I mean I’m sure it’s like that a lot but I bet a very small fraction of them get drafted or ever even see an NBA court

A chance to be seen by scouts & create buzz-- even if not for the NBA, then for China & Europe.

[objective]

Episode 195 of the Indy Cornrows podcast has about 45 minutes on Scottie Barnes. Fairly interesting perspectives, I found. Not especially positive from a Spurs fit.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/JakeInThePaint/status/1395035466349621249?s=19

[The Truth #6]

From the top rope, that’s funny...he does sort of look like Jimmy Superfly Snuka.

https://youtu.be/lVXzyaovsMc

[jjspur]

I agree 100% with Elliot. The players should have the fundamentals down before they get drafted especially high draft picks. Some players are really gifted athletes or are very skilled in one area and can somewhat mask their weaknesses. Some front offices even cut the players 2-3 years slack but eventually it becomes obvious that they were a bad pick and the team moves on. Some spurs players have their fundamentals down and they play even in their rookie year, others not so much and they don't. You can practically see smoke coming out pop's ears when a young player makes a fundamentally stupid mistake even in garbage time. I'm sure Tony Parker remembers that all too well but he was an exception and he may be in the Hall of Fame someday.

Lets see if they can draft a player with good fundamentals already and not have to wait two years or more to see them. Pop won't be around forever to yell at them.

[ace3g]

OT but hopefully this is good news that Summer League will happen.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/996727452486504450/cuVEjsh5_normal.jpg
K.C. Johnson @KCJHoop
(https://twitter.com/KCJHoop) 1h (https://twitter.com/KCJHoop/status/1394344441901686787)
Patrick Williams said he will play summer league.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1385261208090021889/p0EI7P4b_normal.jpg (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) Sam Gordon (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) @BySamGordon (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon)




The NBA’s annual Summer League is returning to Las Vegas from Aug. 8-17, a source tells the Review-Journal.
2:24pm · 19 May 2021 (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon/status/1395098105859608580) · Twitter for iPhone (https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/how-to-tweet#source-labels)

[timvp]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1385261208090021889/p0EI7P4b_normal.jpg (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) Sam Gordon (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon) @BySamGordon (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon)




The NBA’s annual Summer League is returning to Las Vegas from Aug. 8-17, a source tells the Review-Journal.
2:24pm · 19 May 2021 (https://twitter.com/BySamGordon/status/1395098105859608580) · Twitter for iPhone (https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/how-to-tweet#source-labels)

:danceclub

[rjv]

:danceclub

wonder if luka will be involved in the olympics. i'd rather he'd be on the summer league roster.

[Mr. Body]

I agree 100% with Elliot. The players should have the fundamentals down before they get drafted especially high draft picks. Some players are really gifted athletes or are very skilled in one area and can somewhat mask their weaknesses. Some front offices even cut the players 2-3 years slack but eventually it becomes obvious that they were a bad pick and the team moves on. Some spurs players have their fundamentals down and they play even in their rookie year, others not so much and they don't. You can practically see smoke coming out pop's ears when a young player makes a fundamentally stupid mistake even in garbage time. I'm sure Tony Parker remembers that all too well but he was an exception and he may be in the Hall of Fame someday.

Lets see if they can draft a player with good fundamentals already and not have to wait two years or more to see them. Pop won't be around forever to yell at them.

The trend will likely go in the opposite direction, with more players leaving college before even playing much -- like Wiseman or that guy from Duke -- or going the G-League route or otherwise. Not saying college ball is the big solution, but the 'instead of college' G-League team is a joke for development and 'getting ready individually for the draft' is even worse.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1395160753498361858

[Dejounte]

Alright, good to know where the Spurs will be picking now (#11 or #12). Gonna be a fun draft season.

[bluebellmaniac]

Alright, good to know where the Spurs will be picking now (#11 or #12). Gonna be a fun draft season.

Or somewhere from #1 to #4 with a little luck?

[Dejounte]

Or somewhere from #1 to #4 with a little luck?

You're only hurting yourself if you think that's gonna happen :lmao

[Thomas82]

Or somewhere from #1 to #4 with a little luck?

Hopefully we do get lucky this year.

[SpurPadre]

It's unfortunate that we had a worse record this year but not having a better draft slot and maybe even a worse slot...all for one play in game. Oh well, hopefully someone falls to us and they have a higher ceiling than Devin.

[Kurik]

Best time of the year! At 11 or 12, I’m a fan of Jalen Johnson, Wagner, Sengun, Moody, and Kispert. I’d trade Walker in a heartbeat as well but not sure if he gets the Spurs anything.

[duncan2150]

Alright, good to know where the Spurs will be picking now (#11 or #12). Gonna be a fun draft season.

That's a good news, we'll have more choices than at 15 or 16 necessarily, i hope we'll win the coin flip against Charlotte and in some dreams climb in the lottery lol

[The Truth #6]

At 11, one of Sengun, Wagner, Moody, or Giddey has to be available, I imagine.

[bluebellmaniac]

You're only hurting yourself if you think that's gonna happen :lmao

Longshot... True. That's why it's called a lottery.

Who's your top 4? Cade, Mobley, ...

[LCM]

By some miracle, the Spurs get the coin flip for 11, and pull a Lakers moving from 11 to 4 ... who is the target? Suggs/Green or Kuminga?

[Dejounte]

Longshot... True. That's why it's called a lottery.

Who's your top 4? Cade, Mobley, ...

Cade, Mobley, Kuminga... No fourth. The talent level drops from there, IMO.

[duncan2150]

Cade, Mobley, Kuminga... No fourth. The talent level drops from there, IMO.

Common Dejounte, Jalen Green is a top talent for sure and what about Suggs ? there are 5 guys better than others.


At 11, one of Sengun, Wagner, Moody, or Giddey has to be available, I imagine.

That will be my wish list without Wagner, if we could have someone between Giddey, Moody and Sengun i will be very happy.

[Dejounte]

Common Dejounte, Jalen Green is a top talent for sure and what about Suggs ? there are 5 guys better than others.



That will be my wish list without Wagner, if we could have someone between Giddey, Moody and Sengun i will be very happy.

In the history of the NBA only an average of three players selected from the top 10 become stars. Most of these guys aren't going to make it, no matter how pretty their game looks.

[ragas]

In the history of the NBA only an average of three players selectrd from the top 10 become stars. Most of these guys aren't going to make it, no matter how pretty their game looks.

So... who out of Cade, Kuminga & Mobley won't make it?

[Dejounte]

So... who out of Cade, Kuminga & Mobley won't make it?

Huh? I was saying that those are my three guys who are going to make it. Anyone else drafted in the top 10 probably won't.

[ragas]

Huh? I was saying that those are my three guys who are going to make it. Anyone else drafted in the top 10 probably won't.

What I'm trying to tell you: What makes you so sure that these 3 players are going to make it and not others? Green and Suggs have a point to make it over Kuminga at least.

[Dejounte]

What I'm trying to tell you: What makes you so sure that these 3 players are going to make it and not others? Green and Suggs have a point to make it over Kuminga at least.

Ah, that's not how I interpreted your post at all...

I don't think Green's feel for the game is great.

Suggs is a tougher choice because he could have a Lillard type career but in the end, Kuminga's offensive arsenal is much more convincing to me.

[ragas]

Ah, that's not how I interpreted your post at all...

I don't think Green's feel for the game is great.

Suggs is a tougher choice because he could have a Lillard type career but in the end, Kuminga's offensive arsenal is much more convincing to me.

That's your opinion. You can be right, but there's a chance that you're wrong. And there are years when more than three players out of the top10 become stars. Maybe Cade is a bust. Who knows?

[Dejounte]

That's your opinion. You can be right, but there's a chance that you're wrong. And there are years when more than three players out of the top10 become stars. Maybe Cade is a bust. Who knows?

Yes, it is an opinion... I never said it wasn't. You asked me a question, guy. And I said an *average* of three. More than that is rare if you look. Not sure where this attitude is coming from. Too early for this shit.

[Dejounte]

That's your opinion. You can be right, but there's a chance that you're wrong. And there are years when more than three players out of the top10 become stars. Maybe Cade is a bust. Who knows?


Cade, Mobley, Kuminga... No fourth. The talent level drops from there, IMO.

[The Truth #6]

Wagner, Sengun, Moody, Giddey.

Wagner has the highest floor I think.

Giddey has the highest chance to bust as a PG who can’t shoot or perhaps beat his man off the dribble, that’s the concern at least.

Sengun, like Wagner, has great fundamentals, and a chance to be a star, but could really struggle due to physical issues in space and pace.

Moody seems like he could be a solid player, help us with scoring, but his path is more vague for me.

Anyone have ideas for other realistic targets at 11/12?

[Spursfanfromafar]

Spurs can still pick in the top 3, if they get lucky in the lottery, right?

[The Truth #6]

Spurs can still pick in the top 3, if they get lucky in the lottery, right?

Yeah, I think it’s like a 1.7% chance. But maybe the Spurs get “rewarded” for not tanking? Ha.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Yeah, I think it’s like a 1.7% chance. But maybe the Spurs get “rewarded” for not tanking? Ha.

If they win the coinflip against Charlotte then the chance for the first pick is 2% and the chance for top 4 is 9.4%

If they lose the coinflip - 1.5% and 7.2%.

[exstatic]

Spurs can still pick in the top 3, if they get lucky in the lottery, right?

They draw for the top 4 spots now. Have for two years.

[rankingtear]

If they win the coinflip against Charlotte then the chance for the first pick is 2% and the chance for top 4 is 9.4%

If they lose the coinflip - 1.5% and 7.2%.

1.8 if they win 1.7 if they lose. They add the 11 and 12 odds then split it with a little more added to the winner.

[K...]

It would be very on point for silver to fix the draft and give the spurs a 4rth pick in a 3 person draft.

[exstatic]

It would be very on point for silver to fix the draft and give the spurs a 4rth pick in a 3 person draft.

It’s actually a 5 player draft before it drops off sharply, although the first 3 are a notch above the next 2. Oh, and if Silver thinks that would be screwing us over, then screw us over. I’d love to pick at 4 vs, 11,12. Drafts also rarely pan out that the top players drafted are the top players 3-4 years later. Just scroll thru the draft history on basketball-reference if you don’t believe me.

[The Truth #6]

You could get Kuminga or Suggs at 4. Yes, please.

[Leetonidas]

Spurs need to try and move up and swing for the fences. Drafting role players to fill out a roster with no stars is pointless

[KingKev]

It would be very on point for silver to fix the draft and give the spurs a 4rth pick in a 3 person draft.

This is far fetched. Regardless this team needs considerably more than a top 5 pick.

[Dejounte]

https://www.basketballnews.com/draft

Matt Babcock is a great scout. He knew Isaiah Stewart would turn out pretty decent, and he did. He has Franz going #12 to us here.

[Biggems]

It’s actually a 5 player draft before it drops off sharply, although the first 3 are a notch above the next 2. Oh, and if Silver thinks that would be screwing us over, then screw us over. I’d love to pick at 4 vs, 11,12. Drafts also rarely pan out that the top players drafted are the top players 3-4 years later. Just scroll thru the draft history on basketball-reference if you don’t believe me.

You missed the point of his post. He was saying that if the draft were only 3 players, he would give the Spurs the 4th pick. In other words, anything and everything to screw us over. I never thought I would miss David Stern, but Silver gives me that sentiment.

[rjv]

https://www.basketballnews.com/draft

Matt Babcock is a great scout. He knew Isaiah Stewart would turn out pretty decent, and he did. He has Franz going #12 to us here.

i'm sure that franz will get a look over; he would be ready to play immediately and, depending on which franz shows up, could help with our shooting woes.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report/status/1394339913173291009?s=19

[BatManu20]

Boughknight has been my pet cat for a while, as I stated in this thread a few weeks ago. He’ll be long gone by the time we pick unfortunately. That should push another player down to us though.

[BatManu20]

If Franz Wagner is available when we select, I’d be surprised if he isn’t the pick tbh. I think PATFO would take him over Sengun.

[rjv]

bouknight has derozan syndrome when it comes to shooting the three.

[exstatic]

I have a hard time thinking that Sengün will last to 25.

[BatManu20]

Kispert is another guy I think the Spurs will take a long look at. He’s a Spurs-type personality (hard worker, blue collar, well-coached, good locker room presence, etc.), fills our biggest need as a 3-point specialist, and could slide right into DeMar’s soon-to-be vacated role or come off the bench behind Vassell.

[exstatic]

You missed the point of his post. He was saying that if the draft were only 3 players, he would give the Spurs the 4th pick. In other words, anything and everything to screw us over. I never thought I would miss David Stern, but Silver gives me that sentiment.

Thank you for responding for him. I doubt that’s what he meant at all. A 3 player draft doesn’t LITERALLY mean that there are only 3 players drafted. Like maybe a 5 year old would think that.

[exstatic]

bouknight has derozan syndrome when it comes to shooting the three.

He shoots 5 a game. If DeRozan did that,even at his %, it would open up more driving lanes.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/rick_bonnell/status/1395462675065446413?s=19

Sengun to the Hornets? Or will they reach for Kai Jones?

[Gibbz]

Kispert is another guy I think the Spurs will take a long look at. He’s a Spurs-type personality (hard worker, blue collar, well-coached, good locker room presence, etc.), fills our biggest need as a 3-point specialist, and could slide right into DeMar’s soon-to-be vacated role or come off the bench behind Vassell.

Would love that--I was really impressed with him this year. I'd prefer him if it came down to he or Wagner.

[Ocotillo]

https://twitter.com/rick_bonnell/status/1395462675065446413?s=19

Sengun to the Hornets? Or will they reach for Kai Jones? We're sending them Poetl doncha know?

[Sugus]

If they win the coinflip against Charlotte then the chance for the first pick is 2% and the chance for top 4 is 9.4%

If they lose the coinflip - 1.5% and 7.2%.

I like these odds, tbh. The league is rigged AF..... And as much as Silver might dislike the Spurs in the playoffs, he's not stupid enough to overlook that leaving small markets out to die isn't a good plan for the league. Especially not a historic market like SanAn. I wouldn't be surprised in the least to see the "lottery gods" favor the Spurs, tbh... :stirpot:

[PhantomDashCam]

https://www.raptorsrepublic.com/2021/05/15/players-to-keep-an-eye-on-in-the-lottery-w-pd-web-raptors-weekly-podcast/

I have enjoyed reading PD Webs analysis of some draft prospects and he guests on this episode of the Podcast.

Although Raptors-centric, he talks about a lot of guys in the lottery, giving his take on some that Spurs fans have shown interest in: Josh Giddey, Keon Johnson, Kai Jones, to name but a few.
This guy is very high on Jaden Springer FWIW, and would "have no problem taking him after the top 5". Goes for about 48 mins, but found it engaging throughout.
Good for the commute, around the house busy work or as a work out jam substitute.

[jjspur]

Kispert would be my choice as well. We'll need a big guard once DeRozen leaves, plus he has a decent 3 point shot unlike departin Derozen. Wagner is also a good choice, as well as Josh Giddey. We will need to somehow replace Demar's 20 points per game.
For the second round Luka Garza has size and shooting skill but a bit slow. At least you dont have to give alot of money to 2nd rounders.

[Degoat]

I honestly believe there’s a lot of good prospects in this draft! I can’t wait for it

[The Truth #6]

This thread is sort of an escape from the other threads because it’s about the future, not debating the past. But without games, this is gonna be a long wait until the draft.

[cd98]

I don’t know about Kispert. Those 4 year college players scare me. I just have Jimmer nightmares.

[bluebellmaniac]

8 Days until we know our Final Record (for Lottery purposes)

45 Days until the Lottery

82 Days until the Draft

3 days until the coin flip for possible draft position

32 days until the Lottery

69 days until the draft

[The Truth #6]

I don’t know about Kispert. Those 4 year college players scare me. I just have Jimmer nightmares.

It’s the gueros that get overhyped in college that scare me, ones that are scorers who are already relying on fadeaway jumpers, like Adam Morrison and Jimmer to an extent. I think 4-year players have good value later in the draft in general, but depends on the situation.

[ragas]

It’s the gueros that get overhyped in college that scare me, ones that are scorers who are already relying on fadeaway jumpers, like Adam Morrison and Jimmer to an extent. I think 4-year players have good value later in the draft in general, but depends on the situation.

At least you know what you get with 4-year-players. I would be more scared about „high risk-high reward“ players, especially after the top picks. That said I hope the Spurs go for high reward.

[rankingtear]

4 year players in the lottery have a bad track record. Even more so those coming from big schools. The exceptions are under recruited late bloomers.

[SpurPadre]

I don’t know about Kispert. Those 4 year college players scare me. I just have Jimmer nightmares.

There was a 4 year player that officially made the HOF last week. You might know him. Just saying.

[SpursStar]

How would we feel about Jalen Johnson since Cunningham is a pipe-dream at this point? I really like Bouknight and wouldn’t be opposed to trading away a younger player in hopes of acquiring another lottery pick but it seems like he would be another one of those guys that will shoot up the board during the draft process.

Tre Mann is a sleeper for me. He shot 40% from 3 this season.

[cd98]

There was a 4 year player that officially made the HOF last week. You might know him. Just saying.

Yes, but did you really just compare Kispert to Tim Duncan? Yikes. Tim Duncan was not your typical 4 year college player. He could have left after two years and gone straight into the lottery. Kispert stayed because he couldn't get a promise to get drafted in the first round. That was the same with Jimmer.

[SpurPadre]

Yes, but did you really just compare Kispert to Tim Duncan? Yikes. Tim Duncan was not your typical 4 year college player. He could have left after two years and gone straight into the lottery. Kispert stayed because he couldn't get a promise to get drafted in the first round. That was the same with Jimmer.

Lol, definitely not comparing them in terms of quality. Actually, I rather not draft Kispert because I have a hangup against white NBA players who aren't from Latin America or Europe. I know that's fucked up and I need to get over that shit but that's another story. My main point is that playing 4 years in college shouldn't be seen as a red flag in itself that's all.

[exstatic]

There was a 4 year player that officially made the HOF last week. You might know him. Just saying.

OK, this isn’t 1997. Tim would have been the #1 pick from his sophomore year on. He stayed because of a promise to his mother.

I’m going to go out on a rather sturdy, thick supportive limb, and say that unless they change the rules of draft eligibility, there will never be another 4 year #1 overall pick.

[KingKev]

Lol, definitely not comparing them in terms of quality. Actually, I rather not draft Kispert because I have a hangup against white NBA players who aren't from Latin America or Europe. I know that's fucked up and I need to get over that shit but that's another story. My main point is that playing 4 years in college shouldn't be seen as a red flag in itself that's all.

hahah Pop giving Matt Bonner big time minutes will do that to you. But also there is this new guy named Luka who is white and is pretty good I think (plays in Dallas not Austin). Also Larry Bird and Dirk Nowitzki found that offensive. And lastly 75% of of American basketball fans still think Manu Ginobilli is European.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/TheHoopCentral/status/1395468409014419456

[DesignatedT]

Kispert is an excellent shooter but below average athlete and defender. I'd pass. Wagner has some question marks with his shooting but is a much better defender. I'd go with Franz between the two.

Ziaire Williams is interesting. Modern day NBA forward. Great size, length and athleticism. Good shot and a good defender. Not the greatest handles and needs to gain some weight but I think he's going to be a good player. Also like Scottie Barns and Moses Moody.

[BackHome]

My top 5 would be:
1. James Bouknight - Instant offense
2. Karl Franz Wagner - Just a very good basketball player smart/good handles for a SF
3. Alperen Sengun - Kid is only 18 and is to good to pass
4. Jaden Springer - Can start with second unit easy
5. Tre Jone - Think him and Tre could really work with the second unit

My has potential but could easily be a bust:
1. Josh Giddey - G
2. Zaire Williams - SF
3. Kai Jones - PF/C

My second round wants:
1. Joe Wieskamp - SF
2. Quentin Grimes - SG
3. Vrenz Bleijenbergh SF/PF

[R. DeMurre]

OK, this isn’t 1997. Tim would have been the #1 pick from his sophomore year on. He stayed because of a promise to his mother.

I’m going to go out on a rather sturdy, thick supportive limb, and say that unless they change the rules of draft eligibility, there will never be another 4 year #1 overall pick.


:tu Nowadays, the #1 pick makes $40mil on just his rookie contract. It would be crazy to risk injury playing another year of college, and miss out on that.

[B1gduff]

A few things to note;

Reports are that Bouknight has really impressed in the predraft process and could fly into the top 8.

This is my own person view regarding Wagner, I think that he will turn out to be a solid nba player, but i just don't think the upside is their for him to be a lotto pick. I think he's an pick outside of the lotto. Personallly, i see him as a more Athtelic and more of a scoring potetntial Kyle Anderson.

Lastly, I think the Draft preprocess and Conbine, will change the landscape of the draft a bit. I can see players droping or climbing thanks to the draft preprocess

[Ditty]

I just hope the Rockets don’t get the first pick. It would be hilarious if their pick fell out if the top five and it went to OKC :lol. Don’t want the Warriors to end up with a top five again either (Minny has the pick top three protected).

[Degoat]

Tier 1 for me assuming we’re picking at 11 or 12
James Bouknight
Kai Jones
Scottie Barnes
Jalen Johnson
Alperen Sengun
Giddey

Tier 2
Mooses moody
Franz Wagner
Corey Kispert
Ziare williams
Usman Garuba

Would honestly be happy with anyone of these guys

[timvp]

I can't imagine the Spurs overlook Bouknight's college arrest. I like him ... but for a team that values character in the draft, I don't think Bouknight is so special that the Spurs would deviate.

[bluebellmaniac]

CBS latest mock draft:

"CBS Sports releases latest NBA mock draft" https://247sports.com/LongFormArticle/Cade-Cunningham-leads-the-way-among-top-NBA-Draft-prospects-Evan-Mobley-Jalen-Suggs-Jalen-Green-165603118/Amp/

12.) SAN ANTONIO SPURS: JOSH GIDDEY (AUSTRALIA/INTERNATIONAL)
Josh Giddey
Position: Shooting Guard | Height: 6’8 | Weight: 205 pounds

CBS Sports: “Almost every NBA team would sign up to add a 6-foot-8 playmaking wing to the roster, so the Spurs add him here to bolster their wing depth.”

247Sports: Josh Giddey is rising up NBA Draft boards due to his strong performance in the National Basketball League in Australia. Giddey can do a little bit of everything on the basketball court. He is averaging 11 points, 7.0 assists and 6.9 rebounds on 41% shooting. Those numbers could work well with the Spurs next season. He can impact the game at different levels and his playmaking has a chance to leave a lasting mark as a rookie.

[Cardinal]

Latest mock draft from ESPN has the Spurs picking Isaiah Jackson at #11

Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.

[Russ]

Latest mock draft from ESPN has the Spurs picking Isaiah Jackson at #11

Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.

He could become a nice player but he's a big who weighs only 205 and his 3 point shooting is nonexistent. Most teams want one or the other (if not both).

If the Spurs really want Jackson, they might move down (although risky).

Jackson would be a big reach at #11 according to most mocks.

[The Truth #6]

Jackson? Seems redundant with Yak already here as a defensive minded center with rudimentary offensive skills. Sure, he could be better than Yak in a few years. Jackson would need significant offensive upside to take him at 11 in my opinion. I love Kentucky players so I’ll look into him more.

Edit: I was responding to The Drew Show, but he seems to have deleted his post, perhaps in a rare moment of humility. But I want to be intrigued by Jackson, but I don't see enough upside there. I mean, if he could be the Defensive Player of the Year, then maybe at 11, but I see them taking Garuba instead if for some odd reason they were only focusing on defense.

[Mr. Body]

Latest mock draft from ESPN has the Spurs picking Isaiah Jackson at #11

Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.

How you can tell sites don't give a flying fuck about the Spurs. Oh, it's ESPN? Of course it is. I'd bet they'd rather club their own children to death than learn the first thing about Spurs needs.

[Dejounte]

CPLpIBapW2_

Draft this man. Closest thing I've seen to Kawhi, and I don't easily throw out that comparison. He'll be his own guy, of course. But similarities are there, IMO.

[The Truth #6]

CPLpIBapW2_

Draft this man. Closest thing I've seen to Kawhi, and I don't easily throw out that comparison. He'll be his own guy, of course. But similarities are there, IMO.

Agreed. He is my first choice of a player who has the potential to be our best player, as well as who may possibly drop to us. After that, Wagner, Giddey, Sengun is who I could the Spurs going with, with an outside chance for Garuba because he plays defense and the Spurs sometimes do unexpected things.

[Thomas82]

Latest mock draft from ESPN has the Spurs picking Isaiah Jackson at #11

Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.

I'll be happy with him if we don't get Kai Jones.

[SpursDynasty85]

CPLpIBapW2_

Draft this man. Closest thing I've seen to Kawhi, and I don't easily throw out that comparison. He'll be his own guy, of course. But similarities are there, IMO.


thanks for posting. He looks like a legit small ball 4 that could stick. Thanks for posting. At least it looks like we can get some guy with size in this draft without sacrificing too much talent.

[Mr. Body]

thanks for posting. He looks like a legit small ball 4 that could stick. Thanks for posting. At least it looks like we can get some guy with size in this draft without sacrificing too much talent.

I'm not sure he has any capability to play 4 whatsoever.

[The Truth #6]

I think Moody comes in as a 3 and D SF. Like all these things with the draft, he may never get beyond that. But you hope he continues to develop his game into something more dynamic. He and Vassell could both play important glue roles in the beginning, but we'd really need Dejounte to drastically increase his drive and kick game for us to push this team forward, and that's even with our team severely lacking in shooting. Because right now Moody doesn't seem to have a lot of 1-1 skills to take his man off the dribble, which is probably why he is listed out of the lottery in some mocks. But his "risk averse" personality, as one site described it, seems right up the Spurs alley. And I still think he's our best realistic bet for a player.

[duncan2150]

CPLpIBapW2_

Draft this man. Closest thing I've seen to Kawhi, and I don't easily throw out that comparison. He'll be his own guy, of course. But similarities are there, IMO.

I will Be very happy if we get moody, he is My first choice with sengun and giddey just after.

I don't know if He is like Kawhi, not sure about that but he is à 2/3 imo with a lot of abilities : good offense, outisde shooting, good D... I really like him.

To have him at 11/12 we'll need that all the Barnes, Johnson K and J, bouknight .... To be drafted before us.

[Dejounte]

I think Moody comes in as a 3 and D SF. Like all these things with the draft, he may never get beyond that. But you hope he continues to develop his game into something more dynamic. He and Vassell could both play important glue roles in the beginning, but we'd really need Dejounte to drastically increase his drive and kick game for us to push this team forward, and that's even with our team severely lacking in shooting. Because right now Moody doesn't seem to have a lot of 1-1 skills to take his man off the dribble, which is probably why he is listed out of the lottery in some mocks. But his "risk averse" personality, as one site described it, seems right up the Spurs alley. And I still think he's our best realistic bet for a player.

Moody's offensive game is way more versatile than Vassell and he actually has a handle. They are two completely different players, IMO. While Moody is able to do the 3 and D role easily, he's capable of much more from the onset whereas Vassell is still developing that.

[mo7888]

CPLpIBapW2_

Draft this man. Closest thing I've seen to Kawhi, and I don't easily throw out that comparison. He'll be his own guy, of course. But similarities are there, IMO.

He's moved significantly up my own personal Spurs big board ..

[duncan2150]

Moody's offensive game is way more versatile than Vassell and he actually has a handle. They are two completely different players, IMO. While Moody is able to do the 3 and D role easily, he's capable of much more from the onset whereas Vassell is still developing that.

Agreed, moosy has a much higher ceilling on offense and overall imo.

[rjv]

I don't want to get too excited about Moody because I'm skeptical he'll still be on the board when the Spurs pick.

[BackHome]

I don't see Moody falling past 10th pick

[J_Paco]

Moody's offensive game is way more versatile than Vassell and he actually has a handle. They are two completely different players, IMO. While Moody is able to do the 3 and D role easily, he's capable of much more from the onset whereas Vassell is still developing that.

Drafting Moody would likely make one or more of Johnson, Walker IV and/or White expendable. I know ST would say Muray, but I want to see if he can develop the three - pointer further & how he plays with a true swingman (that doesn't mirror his offensive skillset).

[PhantomDashCam]

An interesting read on Corey Kispert. Posted back in January, so some information on recent performances will be absent.
Not opposed to taking him tbh…High motor, I.Q and an Elite skill already that the Spurs desperately need.

https://www.thestepien.com/2021/01/13/the-case-for-corey-kispert/


Everything with Kispert starts with his shooting, so that’s where we’ll spend a lot of time. Here is a screenshot from Synergy Sports Technology, showing some of Kispert’s shooting number’s from last year.
https://www.thestepien.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Screen-Shot-2021-01-11-at-12.08.47-AM-1-1024x394.png

Only shoots average from the mid range though, definite red flag for the Spurs. :(

[bluebellmaniac]

What is your top 10 of potential draftees in terms of basketball IQ? Feel free to place into tiers. Thought that would be an insightful metric. We love high BBIQ guys.

[SpursDynasty85]

I'm not sure he has any capability to play 4 whatsoever.


pop has been trotting out Brent Barry, Michael Finley, RJ, and Kawhi (prototypical alpha small ball 4) in the playoffs his whole career. This year it was Derozan and KJ. If his strengths are good help on D and 7 foot wingspan then he fits into what Pop wants at the very least, let alone the good shooting to go with it.

[Mr. Body]

pop has been trotting out Brent Barry, Michael Finley, RJ, and Kawhi (prototypical alpha small ball 4) in the playoffs his whole career. This year it was Derozan and KJ. If his strengths are good help on D and 7 foot wingspan then he fits into what Pop wants at the very least, let alone the good shooting to go with it.

Finley and Barry were terrible choices done because there were no other options. If you want a stretch 4, get a stretch 4. Don't just make something up about a shooting guard who is slight of build.

[exstatic]

Drafting Moody would likely make one or more of Johnson, Walker IV and/or White expendable. I know ST would say Muray, but I want to see if he can develop the three - pointer further & how he plays with a true swingman (that doesn't mirror his offensive skillset).

Lonnie’s QO to make him restricted is ~$13M, so that may help to make the decision.

[objective]

I could see Saddiq Bey's success moving Moody outside the Spurs range.

[The Truth #6]

Moody's offensive game is way more versatile than Vassell and he actually has a handle. They are two completely different players, IMO. While Moody is able to do the 3 and D role easily, he's capable of much more from the onset whereas Vassell is still developing that.

I don’t think I was equating them to each other; I think I was saying how they both could play together by offering two needed things, defense and outside shooting.

I also said Moody would have a path to be the best player on the team. At the same time I will be honest and acknowledge that his offensive game still has a lot of room to grow.

[keithington1]

Sengun is gonna be a beast i’d trade up, he’s that good. Hornets taking him if they win the coin flip.

[EricB]

Lonnie’s QO to make him restricted is ~$13M, so that may help to make the decision.


plus what I was told about Lonnie going into this season was “we’ll see if he can put up or shut up”

the play in game didn’t help him at all.

[KingKev]

Lonnie’s QO to make him restricted is ~$13M, so that may help to make the decision.

Yikes. Probably as much as I’d want to offer him at this point given the glut we have at guard and his inconsistent play.

[PrimeMinister]

For reference- the mid level exception going into the 2022 season is slated to be ~10.2 million

13 million QO would equate to somewhere in the neighborhood of 11-12% of the cap

The salary cap is no longer 70 million and I see a lot of people still treat contracts like it is.

[exstatic]

I’m wondering if there are teams dazzled by Lonnie’s athleticism who might swap picks or give us a later pick for him. It really is decision time. $13M is too much money to pay him, and I’m frightened of what his year 5 QO would be. If you don’t offer it, he’s unrestricted. If you do,it’s considered a one year contract, and he can’t be traded without his consent. I only remember a few players accepting their year 5 QO, and they all walked away for nothing.

[Degoat]

The draft will say a lot about Lonnie’s future here I think

[exstatic]

The draft will say a lot about Lonnie’s future here I think

Especially if they trade him during it.

[Degoat]

Especially if they trade him during it.

I’d be all for that tbh, spurs just don’t trade anybody ever tho

[The Truth #6]

I’d be all for that tbh, spurs just don’t trade anybody ever tho

If Coach Bud was hired, I could see him as someone having the clout to make trades to retool the team to his liking. If Becky takes over, my gut feeling is she doesn't have that power.

[exstatic]

None of us are used to the salary and QO path of a player picked as high as Lonnie. It also makes me wonder if that was the reason that James Anderson, picked #20, was non-tendered on his contract.

[R. DeMurre]

I’d be all for that tbh, spurs just don’t trade anybody ever tho

This will be the test for the FO in the next two years I think. It makes sense to be a little more pro status quo & conservative when you have Timmy, Manu, and Tony... not as much when you finish sub .500 in consecutive seasons and don't have an all star on the team.

[Dejounte]

I'm okay with $13 mil for Lonnie provided DeMar isn't back. I want to see him chuck it up for a full season and it will either lead the team to the lottery or lead to an improved Lonnie.

[timvp]

Where are are we getting this $13 million figure with regard to Walker? His QO in summer of 2022 is half that, AFAIK.

[exstatic]

Where are are we getting this $13 million figure with regard to Walker? His QO in summer of 2022 is half that, AFAIK.

My bad. That’s his cap hold, a multiplier of the QO.

[playblair]

i have been told spurs are targeting texas pf greg brown with their first pick

[BackHome]

I am starting to see Brown slip to the second round on some mock drafts

[Russ]

I am starting to see Brown slip to the second round on some mock drafts

Brown in the 2d round might be a straight up coup. (But that's where the value will be anyway, Brown or otherwise, this is a 2d round draft.)

[J_Paco]

Have either Sengun or Jones shown the mobility or quickness to slide up to the 4? I think finding a better long-term solution at starting PF is vital.

And sadly, Samanic hasn't shown enough (or been given enough opportunities) to make me believe he's the answer.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/m8Q8_ayY9ho

[Degoat]

They should have the draft sooner imo, it’s gonna probably be another quick turn around for rookies like last year

[duncan2150]

https://youtu.be/m8Q8_ayY9ho

Starts to hit some threes, more playmaking ability... he will be very good imo.

[J_Paco]

https://youtu.be/m8Q8_ayY9ho

I love the playmaking and perimeter shooting in these highlights. If he can add some more muscle he could be a really good fit.

[Dejounte]

Have either Sengun or Jones shown the mobility or quickness to slide up to the 4? I think finding a better long-term solution at starting PF is vital.

And sadly, Samanic hasn't shown enough (or been given enough opportunities) to make me believe he's the answer.

Sengun has no hope in the NBA if he can't play the 4. Teams don't play small ball C as often as people think they do. He'll get bullied by the likes of Kanter, Embiid, Adams, the list goes on...

At one point, people thought Samanic wouldn't be able to play the 4 because they thought he would be slow footed. He proved those doubters wrong. Sengun has to prove people wrong with his quickness. I can't say if he can or can't right now. He certainly is smart enough to handle defensive assignments, but can his body catch up with his mind? We'll see.

[duncan2150]

Sengun has no hope in the NBA if he can't play the 4. Teams don't play small ball C as often as people think they do. He'll get bullied by the likes of Kanter, Embiid, Adams, the list goes on...

At one point, people thought Samanic wouldn't be able to play the 4 because they thought he would be slow footed. He proved those doubters wrong. Sengun has to prove people wrong with his quickness. I can't say if he can or can't right now. He certainly is smart enough to handle defensive assignments, but can his body catch up with his mind? We'll see.


Im not totally agree, actually he is a 5 but maybe with developping his shoot/quickness he can be a 4.
Yes he will get bullied by embiid but like almost all nba centers and in the other part, he could work on a lot of centers in the nba with his footwork, IQ ...

Playing a center who is 6'9 maybe 6'10 is not unbelivable in today's nba, all depends on match up. Maybe i'm wrong but i don't see a position problem with sengun.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/SamanicLuka/status/1395778904225427463?s=19

People are down on Luka but Luka acts like a man unfazed by his lack of opportunities so far. IMO, the Spurs have been in his ear telling him he'll get playing time next season. You can't be this upbeat about being a Spur after being given barely any playing time. Even Metu looked disgruntled towards the end of his time with the Spurs.

[exstatic]

They should have the draft sooner imo, it’s gonna probably be another quick turn around for rookies like last year

Nothing like last year. They’ve already said there will be a summer league. That’s huge. There won’t be that dead month in August, but I expect everything else to be pretty normal. Training camp in mid September, pre season games or scrimmages in October, season starts in late October.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/nnaZKwbNBd0

This man loves the mid-range. Plays so much like DeMar, it's not even funny.

[exstatic]

https://youtu.be/nnaZKwbNBd0

This man loves the mid-range. Plays so much like DeMar, it's not even funny.

That’s a hard no for me, then.

[buttsR4rebounding]

https://twitter.com/SamanicLuka/status/1395778904225427463?s=19

People are down on Luka but Luka acts like a man unfazed by his lack of opportunities so far. IMO, the Spurs have been in his ear telling him he'll get playing time next season. You can't be this upbeat about being a Spur after being given barely any playing time. Even Metu looked disgruntled towards the end of his time with the Spurs.

I think Samanic breaks out big next year. To me he is clearly superior to Johnson. He is the only current Spur with a chance to be a true #1 option. He will be next year’s MIP.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://youtu.be/nnaZKwbNBd0

This man loves the mid-range. Plays so much like DeMar, it's not even funny.

It's actually pretty crazy the amount of players in this draft that favor the mid-range, with questions of can they extend to be reliable, consistent threats from beyond the arc...

Johnson, Bouknight, Dosunmu, Springer just to name a few.

[J_Paco]

It's actually pretty crazy the amount of players in this draft that favor the mid-range, with questions of can they extend to be reliable, consistent threats from beyond the arc...

Johnson, Bouknight, Dosunmu, Springer just to name a few.

Then the team should pass on all of them (in either round).

We need size, defense and three point shooting/a gunner, not a(nother) guy making his living at the most inefficient part of the court.


I think Samanic breaks out big next year. To me he is clearly superior to Johnson. He is the only current Spur with a chance to be a true #1 option. He will be next year’s MIP.

That'd be both insane and huge if your prediction comes true.

Only time in recent memory that a bit player became a 'star' was Jermaine O'Neal after leaving Portland for Indiana.

I definitely think Luka has the tools to be a rotational piece or starter, but will his confidence and approach catch up?

[Dejounte]

My prediction isn't as extreme as butts', but I think Luka will produce something similar to what Keldon did this year...which is pretty good all things considered.

[rjv]

Sengun looked pretty decent in those highlights, considering how badly his team was getting beat down.

[mo7888]

https://www.inquisitr.com/6490339/spurs-could-trade-derrick-white-for-al-horford-2022-first-round-

[Dejounte]

https://www.inquisitr.com/6490339/spurs-could-trade-derrick-white-for-al-horford-2022-first-round-

A top12 protected 2022 pick? Yeeeeah hell no.

[PhantomDashCam]

Then the team should pass on all of them (in either round).

We need size, defense and three point shooting/a gunner, not a(nother) guy making his living at the most inefficient part of the court.



I agree whole heartedly in the point that if the Spurs don’t project any of those guys to be capable long distance shooters long term, you have to pass.
Analysts obviously use any metric possible to prop up “their guy”, but this one I found somewhat interesting about Springer:

https://twitter.com/BrianJDraft/status/1390336067111432199?s=20

[Mr. Body]

https://www.inquisitr.com/6490339/spurs-could-trade-derrick-white-for-al-horford-2022-first-round-

I don't think any league in the world has worse sports journalists than the NBA.

[mo7888]

A top12 protected 2022 pick? Yeeeeah hell no.

I agree the pick compensation isn't enough but, I could see us doing a deal like this if the pick is better or a young player is included as well.

[exstatic]

I agree the pick compensation isn't enough but, I could see us doing a deal like this if the pick is better or a young player is included as well.

I’d rather it be Lonnie.

[Mr. Body]

I agree the pick compensation isn't enough but, I could see us doing a deal like this if the pick is better or a young player is included as well.

The deal is fucking stupid. OKC unloads a massive contract and player they sat almost the entire year and a draft pick outside the lottery for a very good floor general. Fuck this shit.

[Dejounte]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjWb-ACN7n4

Pro-Kai Jones people need to watch this.

This video contains his missed shots, which tell more of a complete story.

His shot attempts at mid-range and at the 3 are U G L Y.

They look like out-of-control, unnatural shots. There's a spectrum that goes like this for shots:

1 - mechanical
5- fluid, natural
10 - out of control

Kai's jumpers are at 10. I don't see a real path for him to become a reliable shooter. That form is broken. The way he sets his feet is bad. There is no consistency in either. It seems like he's adjusting his form in every shot attempt.

With that said, I'm not anti-Kai. No question the athleticism is there for him to excel as a rim rolling big.

[pad300]

The OKC trade makes sense if you leave Derrick White out of it:

In: Al Horford (under contract for $53.5M/2 years) + Phoenix's 1st round pick to Oklahoma City protected for selections 1-12 in 2022, 1-10 in 2023 and 1-8 in 2024 and unprotected in 2025

Out: Cap space (ie generates a Trade Exception)

SAS takes on Al Horford and the 53.5M attached for a 2022 FRP... That starts to make sense, but that is a heck of an expensive FRP, depending on what you think Horford is worth to us.

[Dejounte]

The thing with taking on Al Horford is you have to promise him playing time. Otherwise, it's the same situation all over again with the Thunder. Would the Spurs trade for Al Horford and then waive him?

[The Truth #6]

Yeah, Kai Jones will need a lot of work. He seems like a 4-year project and I’m not on board with 3 year projects (meaning they can’t even contribute until year 3). As a small market, I’m skeptical of investing in a player only for them to be ready, if at all, right as their contract is about to expire. At least Luka came in with lots of skills. Jones is far from that. But hey, hopefully someone ahead of us takes him.

[rjv]

Yeah, Kai Jones will need a lot of work. He seems like a 4-year project and I’m not on board with 3 year projects (meaning they can’t even contribute until year 3). As a small market, I’m skeptical of investing in a player only for them to be ready, if at all, right as their contract is about to expire. At least Luka came in with lots of skills. Jones is far from that. But hey, hopefully someone ahead of us takes him.

it wouldn't shock me if jones did go before us although i don't think he will. it'd be great if kai did go before the spurs picked though.

[The Truth #6]

it wouldn't shock me if jones did go before us although i don't think he will. it'd be great if kai did go before the spurs picked though.

Absolutely. Isaiah Jackson too, if possible, would be great if someone picks him before us.

[pad300]

The thing with taking on Al Horford is you have to promise him playing time. Otherwise, it's the same situation all over again with the Thunder. Would the Spurs trade for Al Horford and then waive him?

I'm not so sure that we'd be making him a promise of playing time. Think of him as taking Rudy's spot (if this happened, I can't see Rudy back), while letting us park the money for the 2023 offseason, all while getting another pick...

[mo7888]

The thing with taking on Al Horford is you have to promise him playing time. Otherwise, it's the same situation all over again with the Thunder. Would the Spurs trade for Al Horford and then waive him?

You absolutely play him if you're trying to make the playoffs. He's better than Eubanks and spreads the floor anchoring a 2nd unit.

[Dejounte]

Teams drafting before the Spurs who could go big (assuming Mobley is gone):

Magic
Raptors
Kings (or not if they give $20 mil to Holmes)
Hornets

I could see the Raptors taking Kai *crosses fingers* and maybe the Magic will take Isaiah Jackson with the Bulls pick.

[exstatic]

Kai and Jackson don’t really seem like Spurs picks. I kind of see both of them as low floor/ low ceiling. I think the Spurs would at least want a high floor guy.

[rjv]

Kai and Jackson don’t really seem like Spurs picks. I kind of see both of them as low floor/ low ceiling. I think the Spurs would at least want a high floor guy.

i don't really know, one way or the other, if the spurs would have any interest in kai or jackson but if they go before the spurs pick that means that those were two other picks before the spurs that would have been wasted on other players-which would bode well that one of the other players hat some of us are hoping the spurs would pick might still be available.

[BacktoBasics]

The OKC trade makes sense if you leave Derrick White out of it:

In: Al Horford (under contract for $53.5M/2 years) + Phoenix's 1st round pick to Oklahoma City protected for selections 1-12 in 2022, 1-10 in 2023 and 1-8 in 2024 and unprotected in 2025

Out: Cap space (ie generates a Trade Exception)

SAS takes on Al Horford and the 53.5M attached for a 2022 FRP... That starts to make sense, but that is a heck of an expensive FRP, depending on what you think Horford is worth to us.
OKC isn’t clearing cap space unless it overwhelmingly benefited them. They’re not contenders or knocking on the playoffs enough to create cap space simply to improve the roster or give themselves freedom.

They don’t even have a core to develop yet. No reason to move contracts unless it’s for something really worthwhile.

[exstatic]

OKC isn’t clearing cap space unless it overwhelmingly benefited them. They’re not contenders or knocking on the playoffs enough to create cap space simply to improve the roster or give themselves freedom.

They don’t even have a core to develop yet. No reason to move contracts unless it’s for something really worthwhile.

I think Horford and his management will not tolerate long term sitting, so while as a concept they may not need to clear cap room, I believe they need to move THIS contract.

[duncan2150]

Teams drafting before the Spurs who could go big (assuming Mobley is gone):

Magic
Raptors
Kings (or not if they give $20 mil to Holmes)
Hornets

I could see the Raptors taking Kai *crosses fingers* and maybe the Magic will take Isaiah Jackson with the Bulls pick.

I agree, Hornets are the biggest threat imo since they only have some 3/4 like bridges but no real C. Kings also cause they have a hole inside, at least on the bench, plus the holmes situation.

Raps have Siakam and Boucher ( plus Birch who they like and is FA i guess), Orlando with Carter and maybe Bamba ( FA).

[exstatic]

https://twitter.com/mike_schmitz/status/1396864442059554818?s=21

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1197929409044504576/nKXnm0aN_normal.jpg
Shams Charania ShamsCharania
(https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania) 1h (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1396901867154780166)
Sources: The NBA has informed franchises that team and league personnel must be fully-vaccinated in order to the attend the 2021 Draft Combine in June in Chicago, unless there's medical or religious reason for no vaccination.

[PrimeMinister]

Sengun I’ve been critical of... but I’m starting to see more Diaw type potential there. Skeptical he can play the 5 full time in the nba but a passing, playmaking 4 who can shoot and create from the post still has a lot of utility.

I see it now.

[The Truth #6]

It will be interesting to see who they prioritize.

Also curious who they rule out. These are random speculations of whom they don’t draft.

Josh Giddey: with so much commitment to Dejounte, I can’t see them drafting Giddey. They didn’t commit to Derrick White as the point guard of the future so Giddey seems less likely, as PG seems like Giddey’s only position because he can’t shoot. Also they seem to like Tre Jones.

Sengun: Sigh. He’s a center, and between the pledge to Yak as a starter and the likely pursuit of Dieng who is a proven shooter, it’s hard to see them getting Sengun as 3rd, possibly 4th center. I’m not endorsing this, again, just speculation.

Kai Jones/Isaiah Jackson: just don’t see it. Jackson is at least a good defender but seems like a waste of a pick. Yak is already a solid defensive 5 who can’t shoot.


Who I see them targeting:

1. Moses Moody (for talent)

2. Kispert. (for shooting)

3. Garuba (for defense; I mean, he could be a DPOY and legitimately guard 1-5, there is something special in that when picking at 11/12. Also, he’s perhaps showing the embryonics of a 3 point shot.)

Edit: 4. Wagner (all around game)

Anyway. My spitballing for the day.

[PhantomDashCam]

Thanks for sharing Dejounte. Lots of great footage there.

While I like that guys videos for how comprehensive they are, it frustrates me as to why he doesn't put the footage in chronological order.
It would be easier to track some of the erratic shot taking, decision making progression linearly - especially with a prospect as raw as Kai Jones is.

I believe if you see Kai as simply a rim rolling big on O at the NBA level, you have to drop him about 8 - 10 spots on your draft board.
To me that is not where his value to a team would come in.

I'm buying that, (with some time mind you), he could be a 3/4 - (a stretch-ish 4 on Offense and a switchable perimeter defender/paint helper 3 on the other end).

If he can continue to develop his perimeter shot with some tweaks (a big if), you can simplify the game initially for him on Offense to C&S -> Attacking a close out, Swing Passes and Dunker's Spot catches/lobs. (He's shown a propensity for this already).

On Defense, well, lets just say it's a little more complicated. How much is between the ears, what has been taught about basic defensive principles, how much energy is he willing to exert on a possession? etc etc.

Hopefully he has a workout with the Spurs and they can get a breakdown of his shooting.
If they draft him, you can best believe they feel it's correctable and translatable to the next level.

[timvp]

I've tried to watch some of Sengun's latest tapes but his team got swept 3-0 in such a blowout fashion that's it's difficult to get anything from it. The most notable thing from the tape is that James Anderson is still kicking and playing pretty well :lol

Sengun doing cool things while his team is down 30 points really shouldn't move a needle, tbh.

[pad300]

I've tried to watch some of Sengun's latest tapes but his team got swept 3-0 in such a blowout fashion that's it's difficult to get anything from it. The most notable thing from the tape is that James Anderson is still kicking and playing pretty well :lol

Sengun doing cool things while his team is down 30 points really shouldn't move a needle, tbh.

I wouldn't draw a bunch from losing 3-0. Besitkas was 19-10 on the regular season (4th spot) and Efes was 29-1 (1st spot). Also, Besitkas is normally a bottom 1/3 of the league team...

[timvp]

I wouldn't draw a bunch from losing 3-0. Besitkas was 19-10 on the regular season (4th spot) and Efes was 29-1 (1st spot). Also, Besitkas is normally a bottom 1/3 of the league team...

Yeah, I don't care that they were blown out. It's just that the games were so uncompetitive that there was nothing -- good or bad -- to take from the games.

[B1gduff]

Last year there were strong reports and rumors that the Spurs wanted Patrick Williams, as fill and need at sf/pf. after this season, I wouldn't be to shocked if they look towards a similar guy, that has the size and strength to play the 3 and four.

[Biggems]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/1197929409044504576/nKXnm0aN_normal.jpg
Shams Charania ShamsCharania
(https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania) 1h (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1396901867154780166)
Sources: The NBA has informed franchises that team and league personnel must be fully-vaccinated in order to the attend the 2021 Draft Combine in June in Chicago, unless there's medical or religious reason for no vaccination.

or if your name is Lebron James

[playblair]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjWb-ACN7n4

Pro-Kai Jones people need to watch this.

This video contains his missed shots, which tell more of a complete story.

His shot attempts at mid-range and at the 3 are U G L Y.

They look like out-of-control, unnatural shots. There's a spectrum that goes like this for shots:

1 - mechanical
5- fluid, natural
10 - out of control

Kai's jumpers are at 10. I don't see a real path for him to become a reliable shooter. That form is broken. The way he sets his feet is bad. There is no consistency in either. It seems like he's adjusting his form in every shot attempt.

With that said, I'm not anti-Kai. No question the athleticism is there for him to excel as a rim rolling big.
i watched kai jones all season a lowlight video does not represent his game he was tremendously misused by shaka smart...........kai jones or greg brown will be a spurs as rc is targeting both....................

[Mr. Body]

i watched kai jones all season a lowlight video does not represent his game he was tremendously misused by shaka smart...........kai jones or greg brown will be a spurs as rc is targeting both....................

A lot of people have you on ignore, don't they?

[Degoat]

So we should find out about the coin flip tomorrow afternoon right?

[timvp]

So we should find out about the coin flip tomorrow afternoon right?

Yep. :tu

[exstatic]

Thanks for sharing Dejounte. Lots of great footage there.

While I like that guys videos for how comprehensive they are, it frustrates me as to why he doesn't put the footage in chronological order.
It would be easier to track some of the erratic shot taking, decision making progression linearly - especially with a prospect as raw as Kai Jones is.

I believe if you see Kai as simply a rim rolling big on O at the NBA level, you have to drop him about 8 - 10 spots on your draft board.
To me that is not where his value to a team would come in.

I'm buying that, (with some time mind you), he could be a 3/4 - (a stretch-ish 4 on Offense and a switchable perimeter defender/paint helper 3 on the other end).

If he can continue to develop his perimeter shot with some tweaks (a big if), you can simplify the game initially for him on Offense to C&S -> Attacking a close out, Swing Passes and Dunker's Spot catches/lobs. (He's shown a propensity for this already).

On Defense, well, lets just say it's a little more complicated. How much is between the ears, what has been taught about basic defensive principles, how much energy is he willing to exert on a possession? etc etc.

Hopefully he has a workout with the Spurs and they can get a breakdown of his shooting.
If they draft him, you can best believe they feel it's correctable and translatable to the next level.

What you’re banking on is a Kawhi level absolute maximum ceiling reach. Teams that draft for that usually fail, because it so rarely happens. Teams that draft for the player to fall somewhere in the 30-70% floor/ceiling usually succeed year after year. Sometimes they even get lucky like we did with Kawhi, or Milwaukee did with Freak. Sometimes, you get the 30%, like Lonnie.

[Dejounte]

Quote from reddit that I agree with:

"Well look at a guy like Cameron Johnson, now he is an occasional starter/sixth man for the 2 seed in the west, but the Suns were almost universally shat upon for drafting him where they did.

Fans and front offices alike tend to value the unknown potential of players because they could be anything, versus a proven commodity where it is easy to see what their ceiling is. Look at guy like Cam Reddish (drafted right before Cam Johnson) where somebody can sit there and imagine “well he wasn’t utilized correctly, he is young and if we can fix those problems he could have an All-NBA ceiling”"

[Dex]

So we should find out about the coin flip tomorrow afternoon right?

"Based upon the coin flip, the San Antonio Spurs have been removed from the NBA draft and relocated to the moon." - Adam Silver, probably

[exstatic]

Quote from reddit that I agree with:

"Well look at a guy like Cameron Johnson, now he is an occasional starter/sixth man for the 2 seed in the west, but the Suns were almost universally shat upon for drafting him where they did.

Fans and front offices alike tend to value the unknown potential of players because they could be anything, versus a proven commodity where it is easy to see what their ceiling is. Look at guy like Cam Reddish (drafted right before Cam Johnson) where somebody can sit there and imagine “well he wasn’t utilized correctly, he is young and if we can fix those problems he could have an All-NBA ceiling”"

If the Spurs draft a second year “occasional starter/sixth man” with our lottery pick, this place would melt down, Vesuvius style. We got the better Johnson in that draft.

[PhantomDashCam]

What you’re banking on is a Kawhi level absolute maximum ceiling reach. Teams that draft for that usually fail, because it so rarely happens. Teams that draft for the player to fall somewhere in the 30-70% floor/ceiling usually succeed year after year. Sometimes they even get lucky like we did with Kawhi, or Milwaukee did with Freak. Sometimes, you get the 30%, like Lonnie.

Not banking on it, it is the lottery after all.

Maybe it’s Kai, maybe it’s not.
I’m not married to the choice and think overall this draft class lacks the depth
of last years.

All the prospects in our range have question marks about how they can contribute at the next level - whether physically, mentally or positionally - (even Cade some scouts view as no sure thing).

From memory, Lonnie was projected by many to bust with question marks on his health (meniscus tear/awkward body control which could lead to repeated stress injuries) and the erratic play.

We all have player’s we like for whatever reason. I was stating mine. It’s cool to disagree.

Some are in love with Moses Moody for example, what I see is an Otto Porter/Trevor Ariza hybrid. Nothing wrong with that, just not my lottery type of pick for this year.

If you going to provide an education of sorts for drafting philosophy, please provide insights to a player that you like in this range that fits your criteria.

My max ceiling version of Kai I’m going to keep to myself as I know how ridiculous it sounds. :lol

[look_at_g_shred]

Would not be mad at Kispert either.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1394386509688619013?s=19

[Degoat]

Fingers crossed boys! 11 sounds so much better than 12 lol

[Dejounte]

Fingers crossed boys! 11 sounds so much better than 12 lol

Either way, I don't think the Hornets would target the players the Spurs need. So for me, this is just an increase to the chances to get into the top 4.

[ace3g]

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/743297685302632451/pSX-RERB_normal.jpg (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) Jonathan Givony (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) @DraftExpress (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress)






Ties in the final regular season standings for determining the order of the 2021 NBA Draft are being broken right now. The drawings are being conducted using a standard lottery machine with team-identified ping pong balls, overseen by a representative of Ernst & Young, LLP.

11:26am · 25 May 2021 (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1397227548497616898) · Twitter Web App (https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/how-to-tweet#source-labels)

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/743297685302632451/pSX-RERB_normal.jpg (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) Jonathan Givony (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress) @DraftExpress (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress)



A memo to NBA teams announcing the results of the tiebreakers will be distributed "shortly after the drawings are completed." Video of the drawings will air on NBA TV later that night. -- Cleveland/OKC at No. 4, Chicago/New Orleans/Sacramento at No. 8 are the two big tiebreakers.




11:28am · 25 May 2021 (https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1397228124480417798) · Twitter Web App (https://help.twitter.com/en/using-twitter/how-to-tweet#source-labels)

[timvp]

I count ten players who would be extremely easy to pick:

Cunningham
Green
Suggs
Mobley
Kuminga
Moody
Barnes
Giddey
Wagner
Keon

The rest of the field has enough question marks that you have to at least hesitate before pulling the trigger. So, yeah, getting pick 11 would be nice, tbh.

[lmbebo]

So, they have to televise the coin flip? Seems over dramatic....

[timvp]

I assume the results will leak soon but maybe the NBA will instruct teams to be quiet until it airs on NBA TV. I don't think the coinflips have ever been televised.

[Dejounte]

My interpretation from that tweet is the results will come before it is televised. They're just going to show the drawing tonight (for people who don't keep up on Twitter and social media). Maybe I'm wrong.

[rjv]

i'm pretty sure woj or shams will be on it and we should know before the airing.

[spurraider21]

i'm pretty sure woj or shams will be on it and we should know before the airing.
i'm pretty sure woj or shams will know before they even flip the coin

[rjv]

i'm pretty sure woj or shams will know before they even flip the coin

:toast

[mo7888]

1. Cade Cunningham
2. Jonathan Kuminga
3. Evan Mobley
4. Jalen Green
5. Jalen Suggs
6. Franz Wagner
7. Moses Moody
8. Corey Kispert
9. Jalen Johnson
10. Alperen Sengun
11. Josh Giddey
12. Keon Johnson
13. Jared Butler
14. Scottie Barnes
15. James Bouknight
16. Zaire Williams
17. Kai Jones
18. Usman Garuba
19. Tre Mann
20. Sharife Cooper
21. Davion Mitchell
22. Jaden Springer
23. Ayo Dosunmu
24. Isaiah Jackson
25. Chris Duarte

On my current Spurs BB I expect 3 players in the 6-11 range to be available if we pick at 11.

[timvp]

Results are in ....