Official 2022 NBA Draft thread

[Mr. Body]

Agreed. Admittedly I was a bit enamored with a few of his early and mid season performances where he looked like a potential two-way star. And his shooting ability is legit. But his scoring and %’s have both gone down lately. Still think he’s a good prospect, but probably won’t ever be a star. I think Jaden Ivey has the most star potential of the top 4 prospects so far.

Right now my two top prospects are Ivey and Holmgren, who has such a great group of skills and is shooting .465 from three right now, although his frame is questionable.

[BatManu20]

Keegan Murray is the player or type of player I hope the Spurs get, as I see them slipping down several spots in the draft. He is limited in ways, but is aggressive and fills a huge need.

He just feels like a Spur. I bet PATFO will love him during the pre-draft process between his game and his high character. Could even see us trading one of our other firsts to try and move up and grab him if we fall out of the top 7.

[BatManu20]

Right now my two top prospects are Ivey and Holmgren, who has such a great group of skills and is shooting .465 from three right now, although his frame is questionable.

Same. I have Ivey first and Holmgren second. Then Jabari, Paolo, and Shaedon Sharpe to finish off my top 5. Assuming those guys are all gone, Murray, Mathurin, and maybe even Duren (if we fall around 8-10) would be my next targets.

[RC_Drunkford]

So everybody‘s been saying this is a weak draft, but some say it‘s a deep one. I know it’s hard to predict how players develop, but what is it? Is this class better than last years or the year before?

[BackHome]

Is he pretty athletic? aka could he guard some (switches) on the wings and decently against a PF or is he more of your traditional big center?

Oh he is a traditional big since he is 7'1 he kinda reminds me of Poodle as far as body and height - But he is a lot more aggressive on offense always calling for the ball when he is making cuts to the basket and when he has a mismatch on him. On defense he moves pretty good for someone his size you would not want him out of the paint but guys are not going to easily fly by him going to the basket - He also is a real..REAL good shot blocker so he may get beat but he knows how to funnel the player where he either has to pass the ball or try a shot and get rejected

If the Spurs are looking at moving Poodle I would definitely get him with the Raptors pick if possible as he has been climbing the mock draft boards lately.

[Mr. Body]

So everybody‘s been saying this is a weak draft, but some say it‘s a deep one. I know it’s hard to predict how players develop, but what is it? Is this class better than last years or the year before?

Hard to tell. I see it as potentially better than last year, but it requires brushing away the hype. Last year the press morons were all about Jalen Green and Kuminga when the top player was probably Scottie Barnes or Mobley and I'm not sure either of them is a star (leaning toward Barnes). This year the hype is going to Banchero and Jabari Smith and I have doubts about them. Basically, the NBA press is awful about hyping the wrong players or just hyping shit in general.

[Mr. Body]

Also, ESPN is always going to hype its interests, which is the ACC, somewhat the SEC (especially Kentucky), and anyone but the Big Ten (for example). I think they have some interest with Ignite. There are 3 top prospects from the Big Ten in the top 8-10 this year.

[John B]

Right now my two top prospects are Ivey and Holmgren, who has such a great group of skills and is shooting .465 from three right now, although his frame is questionable.

Agree. But you play Holmgren like Durant, more like a SF/PF instead of banging inside, which is Spurs position in need. I think Spurs have a good chance to get him or trade up for him if he falls to 4 spot (hopefully :lol).

Damn that’s like Nowitzky outside shot, who can either shoot over or blow by his defender.

[Rocalcio]

https://youtu.be/XTOd4x--W28

Ivey is a no brainer pick if he’s there.

We have enough guards.

[BacktoBasics]

We have enough guards.

Not like him.

[Dejounte]

We have enough guards.

You don’t pass up D-Wade because you want to draft a team need like the Pistons did with Milicic.

Luckily, Ivey is maybe the only G/W I’d draft over a F/C at the top. There are more talented F/C’s than G/W’s at the top so that’s good for the Spurs if Ivey is gone.

[Dejounte]

My latest board:

1. Banchero
2. Ivey
3. Chet
4. Eason
5. K Murray
6. Baldwin Jr
7. K Brown
8. Mathurin
9. Liddell
10. Dyson

[talkspurs]

Also remember that next years draft is the double draft so if someone wants one of picks and we dont have a player maybe we can trade one for 2 picks next year.

[exstatic]

stocks use this but I think it works here.

"past results are not indicative of future results"

Stocks don’t have odds. The lottery drawing does. Nothing that’s happened in the past 3 years is a major aberration, so you can kind of count on one or more teams jumping into the top 4 on a regular basis.

[duncan2150]

Oh he is a traditional big since he is 7'1 he kinda reminds me of Poodle as far as body and height - But he is a lot more aggressive on offense always calling for the ball when he is making cuts to the basket and when he has a mismatch on him. On defense he moves pretty good for someone his size you would not want him out of the paint but guys are not going to easily fly by him going to the basket - He also is a real..REAL good shot blocker so he may get beat but he knows how to funnel the player where he either has to pass the ball or try a shot and get rejected

If the Spurs are looking at moving Poodle I would definitely get him with the Raptors pick if possible as he has been climbing the mock draft boards lately.

Kessler is an elite shotblocker, look like the best in this classe. He started to develop his 3 pt, imo He could develop into a better version of poetl.

He was a top prospect coming out of HS and I understand why.

[duncan2150]

My latest board:

1. Banchero
2. Ivey
3. Chet
4. Eason
5. K Murray
6. Baldwin Jr
7. K Brown
8. Mathurin
9. Liddell
10. Dyson

I like your board. I may up Baldwin and Mathurin a little bit.

[Russ]

This draft looks way better than last year's (which isn't saying much). A good draft to have three first round picks.

Another player to keep in mind (other than J. Smith, Holmgren, Banchero and Ivey) is AJ Griffin, Banchero's running mate at Duke.

The good news is that all of these guys are on top 4 college teams so they'll be in a lot of big games to watch the next few months.

[BackHome]

This draft is the year of the SG but after the top 3 bigs it's pretty weak in everything else. If I had to grade this draft on position it would probably be..

PG. D - I see no PG in top 10 and maybe 3 in the first round?
SG. B+ - Not elite talent but a lot of very good players
SF. F - Maybe two or three player in the entire draft
PF. C- - Besides big three not much after that at all
C. C+ A couple of decent big I have my eye on

[exstatic]

So everybody‘s been saying this is a weak draft, but some say it‘s a deep one. I know it’s hard to predict how players develop, but what is it? Is this class better than last years or the year before?

It can be weak at the top, only one or two blue chippers, but have a very full and complete first round, with little drop off after the first 7-8 picks.

[BatManu20]

Jalen Duren and Memphis about to upset #6 Houston on the road. He’s had a solid game with 14 pts & 10 boards on 5/7 shooting. Had a couple nice dunks and a big put-back jam late. Have to remember he’s a year younger than most the Freshman in this draft. Should be a Senior in High School as he just turned 18 in November.

He’s got a long ways to go in terms of offense but his upside is as high as anyone in this draft outside of Chet imo. 6’11 250 lb athletes like that don’t grow on trees. His size, athleticism, coordination, and defensive potential can’t be ignored.

[BatManu20]

1492626955925172224


1492621763376828426

[mookie2001]

Forget marfans anyone who doesn't take Chet #1 is going to look like a moron.

[TDMVPDPOY]

whats the point of getting a lottery pick if u aint going to throw him big minutes, instead under popabitch he will be dump on the bench and gleague...then u look at other teams in rebuilding phase are playing their young rookies alot to speed up the learning process...

[Dejounte]

Hard to tell. I see it as potentially better than last year, but it requires brushing away the hype. Last year the press morons were all about Jalen Green and Kuminga when the top player was probably Scottie Barnes or Mobley and I'm not sure either of them is a star (leaning toward Barnes). This year the hype is going to Banchero and Jabari Smith and I have doubts about them. Basically, the NBA press is awful about hyping the wrong players or just hyping shit in general.

I know you have this weird vendetta against Ignite players but Kuminga is the real deal

https://twitter.com/worldwidewob/status/1492678246403506179?s=21

Warriors already have their next superstar in place

he barely needed to take off for that nasty dunk

[Mr. Body]

I know you have this weird vendetta against Ignite players but Kuminga is the real deal

https://twitter.com/worldwidewob/status/1492678246403506179?s=21

Warriors already have their next superstar in place

he barely needed to take off for that nasty dunk

He looks pretty good. Hold your roll on the superstar business. Good lord, it's a fucking dunk against the Lakers.

[exstatic]

Not to mention that he’s surrounded by All Stars. Look at how Draymond was exposed when both Curry and Klay were out. He had made All Star games and All NBA teams, and it turns out, he was just a guy with some NBA Skills.

[mystargtr34]

If the Spurs don't get a top 5 pick and end up in the 6-8 range, perhaps they take Jalen Duren and trade Jakob for a 4. That obviously depends if they think Duren will be a player.

If the Spurs do go this route and take Duren. They will obviously trade Jakob. The more I watch Duren the more I like him. Potential to be a monster impact player on defense as a rim protector and also on offense as an above the rim roller like Jarrett Allen or prime Deandre Jordan. Also has a bit of a jumpshot.

Thinking of possible trade partners. One that comes to mind is Toronto. Toronto needs a C, I don’t think playing Siakam and OG at 5 is there long term plan. Neither is Boucher or Achiuwa, they’re all way too small. I think the odd man out is OG. His skill set is redundant with Siakam and Barnes. Toronto could be willing to do a Jakob for OG trade. Would fill a need for both teams. Spurs get their PF/big SF and Raptors get their C. Jakob-Siakam-Barnes-Trent-FVV is nice. Depends if they see Barnes a guy that can guard the other teams best offensive wing.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/dancingwithnoah/status/1492703946619731970?s=21

Tari with another big game

[XDT76]

This draft is the year of the SG but after the top 3 bigs it's pretty weak in everything else. If I had to grade this draft on position it would probably be..

PG. D - I see no PG in top 10 and maybe 3 in the first round?
SG. B+ - Not elite talent but a lot of very good players
SF. F - Maybe two or three player in the entire draft
PF. C- - Besides big three not much after that at all
C. C+ A couple of decent big I have my eye on

If what you say is correct then Spurs choose the worse year to conduct their trades or maybe that is why teams throws their FRP at the Spurs

[BatManu20]

Watched the second half of that LSU game. Tari’s defense is legit. Was impressed with all of LSU’s defense actually, but he definitely stood out. He’s super active on that end. His offense is better than I realized too, though his D is definitely his calling card.


1492695056318271489

[duncan2150]

If what you say is correct then Spurs choose the worse year to conduct their trades or maybe that is why teams throws their FRP at the Spurs


This draft is loaded with high potential, you have a lot of young players who can develop pretty well. Imo that's what the Spurs think about it.

It's always difficult to talk about the level of a draft, you have to wait for years before having an idea but this draft will be good imo.

[Biggems]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7RMeSdED00

has anyone seen this prospect. Walker Kessler. He could be a valuable rim protector.

[duncan2150]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7RMeSdED00

has anyone seen this prospect. Walker Kessler. He could be a valuable rim protector.

We talked about him a few days ago. He is a legit prospect and i would not mind him with Toronto or Boston pick.

He is a strong strong shotblocker with a lot of other skills. Moves well for his size, good hands...

I really like him and his ceiling is high imo.

[spursince#99]

If we’re smart, Johnny Davis will be the pick.

[BatManu20]

Jaden Ivey struggling today against Maryland. 1/8 for 8 pts with 6 minutes left in the game. They’re doing a good job of doubling him off the PnR and not letting him get to where he wants.

His explosiveness towards the basket is elite though. That’s his most noticeable quality so far as a player. He gets others open looks as the defense collapses too. He’s at the very least going to be a very good player who can both create and dish at the next level. Already a solid shooter at 40% from 3 this season. And he’s got a swagger to him. Kid has definite All-Star potential.

[BatManu20]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7RMeSdED00

has anyone seen this prospect. Walker Kessler. He could be a valuable rim protector.

I watched the Auburn game yesterday to watch Jabari Smith and this guy completely stole the show. He’s definitely on the NBA radar with that size and coordination. Good touch around the basket too for a legit 7’1 guy. Have a feeling he’s not going to declare though. Hope I’m wrong.

[John B]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7RMeSdED00

has anyone seen this prospect. Walker Kessler. He could be a valuable rim protector.

I don’t mind him as Poeltl’s replacement if Poeltl’s demand a huge increase. Again my main problem with Poeltl is his on-man defense and overhelping too early leaving his guy for a dunk, almost all the time. I mean I like Poeltl’s closeouts and perimeter defense when caught on PNR. Also his offense and even FT’s are coming along good. But on-man defense, overhelping, getting beat on box outs, those are my big complaints on Poeltl.

If Walker Kessler can protect the paint better, with that Raptor pick.

And Nicola Jovic for the Boston pick (not to be confused with Nicola Jokic :lol). He’s a 6’10 point forward who is very skilled.


https://youtu.be/guqo0zMk5CQ
Ideally Spurs can jump in the top 4 so they don’t have to trade up. Damn that would be awesome.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

My latest board:

1. Banchero
2. Ivey
3. Chet
4. Eason
5. K Murray
6. Baldwin Jr
7. K Brown
8. Mathurin
9. Liddell
10. Dyson

where is Jabari Smith Jr.?

I know you aren’t much of a fan but he is better than a few of that top ten you posted.

[RC_Drunkford]

I watched the Auburn game yesterday to watch Jabari Smith and this guy completely stole the show. He’s definitely on the NBA radar with that size and coordination. Good touch around the basket too for a legit 7’1 guy. Have a feeling he’s not going to declare though. Hope I’m wrong.


he's mobile, long, covers a lot of ground and has a 3-point shot. Very promising

[Dejounte]

where is Jabari Smith Jr.?

I know you aren’t much of a fan but he is better than a few of that top ten you posted.

if every year there are players outside of the top 10 who end up being the players projected in the top 10. Jabari is that guy who I feel isn’t going to be that great. Only three guys usually make it.

[duncan2150]

I don’t mind him as Poeltl’s replacement if Poeltl’s demand a huge increase. Again my main problem with Poeltl is his on-man defense and overhelping too early leaving his guy for a dunk, almost all the time. I mean I like Poeltl’s closeouts and perimeter defense when caught on PNR. Also his offense and even FT’s are coming along good. But on-man defense, overhelping, getting beat on box outs, those are my big complaints on Poeltl.

If Walker Kessler can protect the paint better, with that Raptor pick.

And Nicola Jovic for the Boston pick (not to be confused with Nicola Jokic :lol). He’s a 6’10 point forward who is very skilled.


https://youtu.be/guqo0zMk5CQ
Ideally Spurs can jump in the top 4 so they don’t have to trade up. Damn that would be awesome.

I also start to like Jovic, Point foward with a good range, skilled like you say with a ton of potential.

I'm pretty sure the spurs have an eye on him, he started the season slowly but he's better and better, good young prospect.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZTHOOIDGrY

most recent game from jovic

[Mr. Body]

Keegan Murray with another 30 pointer. Against Nebraska, granted. He feels like a guy like Paul Pierce who will drop and make teams regret letting him slide. Not saying they're the same player of course, but they do have the savvy old man game.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

if every year there are players outside of the top 10 who end up being the players projected in the top 10. Jabari is that guy who I feel isn’t going to be that great. Only three guys usually make it.

of course not every high pick is going to be great but I’m surprised you have some of the players you do ahead of him on your top ten.

Especially a guy like Baldwin Jr. who has showed he isn’t as good as projected at the college level. Lmao. But to each their own I guess.

[FlAVaK]

https://youtu.be/JPjCKvz9Spc

Securing the ball like a running back on that drive has some Manu vibes...

[BatManu20]

Another comeback win for Boston. That’s 8 straight for them. They’re clearly an improved team with Derrick out there. That pick is prob gonna stay mid-late 20’s sadly.

[TD 21]

If the Spurs do go this route and take Duren. They will obviously trade Jakob. The more I watch Duren the more I like him. Potential to be a monster impact player on defense as a rim protector and also on offense as an above the rim roller like Jarrett Allen or prime Deandre Jordan. Also has a bit of a jumpshot.

Thinking of possible trade partners. One that comes to mind is Toronto. Toronto needs a C, I don’t think playing Siakam and OG at 5 is there long term plan. Neither is Boucher or Achiuwa, they’re all way too small. I think the odd man out is OG. His skill set is redundant with Siakam and Barnes. Toronto could be willing to do a Jakob for OG trade. Would fill a need for both teams. Spurs get their PF/big SF and Raptors get their C. Jakob-Siakam-Barnes-Trent-FVV is nice. Depends if they see Barnes a guy that can guard the other teams best offensive wing.

Can't imagine the Spurs selecting Duren. They've literally prioritized the opposite of him in terms of bigs for decades.

There's no chance the Raptors would trade Anunoby for Poeltl. If there was, that trade would have already been made. Instead, they tried to get him with scraps (lottery protected 1st and expiring's).

[DAF86]

So, any interesting 6'8" and beyond Forwards?

[BackHome]

Another comeback win for Boston. That’s 8 straight for them. They’re clearly an improved team with Derrick out there. That pick is prob gonna stay mid-late 20’s sadly.

Yeah I think will pass on the 2022 pick and use the 2028 first option

[talkspurs]

Yeah I think will pass on the 2022 pick and use the 2028 first option

Its not one or the other. We got a 22 first 1-4 protected AND a 28 swap.

[BackHome]

So, any interesting 6'8" and beyond Forwards?

If you looking at Small Fords - only person would be Kendall Brown and AJ Griffin and Wendell Moore in latter part of draft

For PF - Keegan Murray and Tari Eason - I just wish they were both taller then 6’8

For Combo SF/PF - Patrick Baldwin, Nikola Jovic, and Jeremy Sochan

[BackHome]

Its not one or the other. We got a 22 first 1-4 protected AND a 28 swap.

Damn so let me try to get this right we get their 22 pick and then in 2028 we can swap picks with them if they have a better draft pick then us?

[mo7888]

Damn so let me try to get this right we get their 22 pick and then in 2028 we can swap picks with them if they have a better draft pick then us?

Yes

[R. DeMurre]

Gotta say, I'm feeling extra optimistic about this draft. A few nights ago, I did a deep dive on Keegan Murray, Tari Eason, and Kendall Brown, and I came away thinking I'd be happy if the Spurs got any of them. If they somehow managed to get 2 of those 3-- whoa.

[BackHome]

Yes

Thanks Mo an Talk y’all just made my Sunday. ;)

[BackHome]

Gotta say, I'm feeling extra optimistic about this draft. A few nights ago, I did a deep dive on Keegan Murray, Tari Eason, and Kendall Brown, and I came away thinking I'd be happy if the Spurs got any of them. If they somehow managed to get 2 of those 3-- whoa.

I actually think that when we use our first draft pick these will probably be the players we seriously look at all three have pros and cons - Biggest would be age, shooting, and height

After our first pick I am hoping we could grab one or two of the following players;

Walker Kessler 7’1 Center
Nikola Jovic 6’10 SF
Jean Montero 6’3 PG
Dyson Daniels 6’6 SG
Jeremy Sochan 6’9 SF/PF

[PhantomDashCam]

Wow just saw Clippers lost Powell to a foot fracture. Out an indefinite period of time according to reports.

Not inconceivable to think Pels, Spurs and Kings could trade places with Lakers, Clippers and Blazers by season's end.

[John B]

Damn so let me try to get this right we get their 22 pick and then in 2028 we can swap picks with them if they have a better draft pick then us?

Plus Josh, and a 22 yrs old, former lottery pick defensive prospect Langford. Thanks to D-White :bobo

[tbdog]

Wow just saw Clippers lost Powell to a foot fracture. Out an indefinite period of time according to reports.

Not inconceivable to think Pels, Spurs and Kings could trade places with Lakers, Clippers and Blazers by season's end.

Give me a shot at the lakers.

[Rito3d30]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdEKdyVGjik
Triple double with blocks:(

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

https://youtu.be/JPjCKvz9Spc

Securing the ball like a running back on that drive has some Manu vibes...

I am a fan of Jovic, especially after watching him play in the U19 tournament. Dude has some game to be as tall as he is. I definitely wouldn’t mind our SPURS drafting him with one of those picks in the teens.

[John B]

I am a fan of Jovic, especially after watching him play in the U19 tournament. Dude has some game to be as tall as he is. I definitely wouldn’t mind our SPURS drafting him with one of those picks in the teens.

I was hoping Raptors kept Ewwbanks and help us with the cause :lol:lol

[RC_Drunkford]

Jović is miles better than Šamanić since he‘s putting up these numbers in the adriatic league and not the 2nd slovenian league :lol the difference of competition is huge. I still see Jović listed as SG when I google him, I guess that‘s the position he played before he grew, which is probably where he developed these skills. His D is concerning, but he wouldn‘t be a bad draft and stash if the Spurs don’t want contracts to overlap

[BackHome]

Yeah I was thinking the same thing if we don’t do any trades I could see us possible drafting two international players as 4 rookies in camp is just way to much

[John B]

Yeah I was thinking the same thing if we don’t do any trades I could see us possible drafting two international players as 4 rookies in camp is just way to much

Heck I wouldn’t might it so much if we got top 5, Kessler and Jovic. Our 2nd round picks though, and Spurs have multiples(?), that’s who we stash. I don’t know the rules of stashing players, for what picks, etc.

[buttsR4rebounding]

One thing I like about Kessler is that he blocks shots with either hand and keeps the ball in play. Very Timmy-like in that respect. Downside is a severe lack of offensive skills.

[BatManu20]

This was his performance on Saturday against Texas A&M. He dominated on both ends. A triple-double with blocks impressive. Don’t think he will be available late in the 1st though, if he even declares. He could return for another season.


hv0BqOu1SXI

[BatManu20]

Love this kid’s attitude. And his game. Spurs won’t select high enough to get him unfortunately, but he’s going to be a big time player at the next level imo.


1490352464096161795

[BatManu20]

#1 overall pick right here.



Zz-WnDnEXwg

[BackHome]

I think he will as he is pretty much a first round pick why risk injury which could end his career and millions of dollars. I agree as far as pick we would have to use the Raptors pick as I think that will be lower then the Boston’s pick.

Another path would be the following with the Raptors pick:

Jean Montero - PG
Nikola Jovic - SF/PF
Jeremy Sochan - SF/PF
Dyson Daniels - SG

If they do use Boston’s pick and Kesslers there you take him but if they want more mobile bigs then take:

Christian Koloko - C
Ismael Kamagate - C

[Mr. Body]

Love this kid’s attitude. And his game. Spurs won’t select high enough to get him unfortunately, but he’s going to be a big time player at the next level imo.


1490352464096161795

I feel like he's destined for OKC, where he'll replace Pokushevski and never be heard from again as they play their "Never actually put a team together" game.

[BatManu20]

I feel like he's destined for OKC, where he'll replace Pokushevski and never be heard from again as they play their "Never actually put a team together" game.

I’d like to see him in Orlando tbh. They deserve a franchise player with how awful they’ve been the past decade. Plus Jalen Suggs is his best friend as they played together in high school and both are Gonzaga guys. At the very least keep him in the East. Don’t want him in Houston, OKC, or New Orleans, or anywhere in the West other than SA for that matter.

[The Truth #6]

Gotta say, I'm feeling extra optimistic about this draft. A few nights ago, I did a deep dive on Keegan Murray, Tari Eason, and Kendall Brown, and I came away thinking I'd be happy if the Spurs got any of them. If they somehow managed to get 2 of those 3-- whoa.

Agree. These feel like Brian Wright players, athletic, US born. I’m overgeneralizing, but trying to remember the last Euro player we picked.

[Excessive Egotist]

Agree. These feel like Brian Wright players, athletic, US born. I’m overgeneralizing, but trying to remember the last Euro player we picked.


With 2WP contracts, late Euros are not much different than any other player at this point. Previously they held additional value from mid first and later as draft and stash candidates. But now, at least with second round picks, you can stash any player in the gleague on a 2WP. Also, Samanic was Wright's first draft, although the belief is that he was Buford's pick.

[exstatic]

I was hoping Raptors kept Ewwbanks and help us with the cause :lol:lol

Their pick is lottery protected this year. Them dropping into the lottery would be bad. Boston, otoh….

[scott]

I'm stoked about having this mid round firsts, assuming we can at least get top 6 (of course, top 4 ideal).

I feel like we aren't that far off from a playoff contender... get an instant impact PF, sign Levine (assuming we don't draft Ivey), and then get a couple of guys with TOR and BOS picks that can develop the "Spurs way" and I'd like our prospects.

[exstatic]

I'm stoked about having this mid round firsts, assuming we can at least get top 6 (of course, top 4 ideal).

I feel like we aren't that far off from a playoff contender... get an instant impact PF, sign Levine (assuming we don't draft Ivey), and then get a couple of guys with TOR and BOS picks that can develop the "Spurs way" and I'd like our prospects.

Highly doubtful that we get the really high pick, sign Lavine, or draft all 3 picks. It’s year one, folks.

More likely: draft 8-12, rent our capspace for some picks, trade one of the acquired FRPs for one a few years further away, maybe sign a young project big at a bargain.

[scott]

Highly doubtful that we get the really high pick, sign Lavine, or draft all 3 picks. It’s year one, folks.

More likely: draft 8-12, rent our capspace for some picks, trade one of the acquired FRPs for one a few years further away, maybe sign a young project big at a bargain.

I mean... in worked in 2K :lmao :lmao

[BackHome]

Highly doubtful that we get the really high pick, sign Lavine, or draft all 3 picks. It’s year one, folks.

More likely: draft 8-12, rent our capspace for some picks, trade one of the acquired FRPs for one a few years further away, maybe sign a young project big at a bargain.

Yeah people think this will be a one year turnover are crazy and I agree I think will go with trading to get bad contracts for draft picks which is cool with me. As far as the 3rd picks which will be Boston’s I can see them trading it if there is a chance will get a better draft pick with that trade as I think Boston’s pick will give us 23rd.

But make no mistake the Tank will continue next year and hopefully we can get serious and this time end up with a top 4 pick. Go Spurs

[JeffDuncan]

... Also, Samanic was Wright's first draft, although the belief is that he was Buford's pick.


That’s incorrect, Buford was still GM for the 2019 draft of Samanic. Buford didn’t retire as GM until later that summer, and Wright took over.

[Excessive Egotist]

Thanks for the correction.

[BatManu20]

Johnny Davis is so damn good. 13 straight points to close the game for the Badgers on the road. His game translates great to the next level. Arguably the most NBA ready prospect in the Draft. Could see him winning ROY. Reminds me a bit of Brandon Roy with his game. Not as athletic or explosive as Jaden Ivey, but a more polished offensive player right now (put up 37 pts & 14 rbs against Ivey & Purdue earlier this season). Just a smart, smooth basketball player who takes over in the clutch. Kid is a gamer.

He’s my favorite to win the Naismith College Player of the Year Award right now. Probably the greatest player in Wisconsin Basketball history honestly. We likely won’t be the team to draft him, but he’s a really good/safe prospect imo.


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[BatManu20]

Kid is a monster.

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[BackHome]

Man I hope we can stay in the top 8 range I feel comfortable drafting a very good player in that range. For the 2 additional picks if we use both of them I am only looking at the following;

Walker Kessler - C
Jean Montero - PG
Dyson Daniels - SG
Jeremy Sochan - SF/PF
Nikola Juvic - PF

For the second round the following;

Justin Lewis - SF/PF
Hugo Besson - PG
Gabrilie Procida - SF

[duncan2150]

Johnny Davis is so damn good. 13 straight points to close the game for the Badgers on the road. His game translates great to the next level. Arguably the most NBA ready prospect in the Draft. Could see him winning ROY. Reminds me a bit of Brandon Roy with his game. Not as athletic or explosive as Jaden Ivey, but a more polished offensive player right now (put up 37 pts & 14 rbs against Ivey & Purdue earlier this season). Just a smart, smooth basketball player who takes over in the clutch. Kid is a gamer.

He’s my favorite to win the Naismith College Player of the Year Award right now. Probably the greatest player in Wisconsin Basketball history honestly. We likely won’t be the team to draft him, but he’s a really good/safe prospect imo.


1493802136349593603

Really good basketall player, really like him. Imo he's something between roy and klay thompson. A 2/3 with range, can score in many ways, good defender.

[RC_Drunkford]

Johnny Davis is so damn good. 13 straight points to close the game for the Badgers on the road. His game translates great to the next level. Arguably the most NBA ready prospect in the Draft. Could see him winning ROY. Reminds me a bit of Brandon Roy with his game. Not as athletic or explosive as Jaden Ivey, but a more polished offensive player right now (put up 37 pts & 14 rbs against Ivey & Purdue earlier this season). Just a smart, smooth basketball player who takes over in the clutch. Kid is a gamer.

He’s my favorite to win the Naismith College Player of the Year Award right now. Probably the greatest player in Wisconsin Basketball history honestly. We likely won’t be the team to draft him, but he’s a really good/safe prospect imo.


1493802136349593603


damn. Projected 6-8th pick and I saw some sites compare him to Manu. I'm really curious who we are going for

[stnick2261]

I'm really hoping they call our name for a top 4 pick and get one of Smith, Holmgren, Banchero or Ivey. I don't even care which.

After that, I'm rooting for us to get one or two of:
Keegan Murray PF
Walker Kessler C
Nikola Jovic SF

I really don't think we tank another year. Getting an all-star is really the first step. Now that we have it, we can't waste it. Even drafting a great talent now means they won't be in their prime right away, and that's wasted years for Dejounte. The Spurs need to get the best players available in the draft and try 100% this next season so they get used to competing and entice a FA to join in summer '23

[BacktoBasics]

Kessler seems like a lot of bigs that end up averaging 5 and 5 over 6-7 years. I'm just not sold on him. Jovic looks a lot more interesting to me.

[szkorhetz]

I'm really hoping they call our name for a top 4 pick and get one of Smith, Holmgren, Banchero or Ivey. I don't even care which.

After that, I'm rooting for us to get one or two of:
Keegan Murray PF
Walker Kessler C
Nikola Jovic SF

I really don't think we tank another year. Getting an all-star is really the first step. Now that we have it, we can't waste it. Even drafting a great talent now means they won't be in their prime right away, and that's wasted years for Dejounte. The Spurs need to get the best players available in the draft and try 100% this next season so they get used to competing and entice a FA to join in summer '23
So you assume Duren will go first?

[stnick2261]

So you assume Duren will go first?

I'm not assuming anything. I'm also not a draft expert. Those are the names I'm familiar with that I'd be happy made it onto our team and may be available at our later picks.

[CGD]

Adrian Griffin will be had to pass up in the 6-9 range. He’s a 6-6 sf w/7ft wingspan, can shoot well from deep and body folks down low, and I love the fact that his dad was a pro player now assist coach.

[mo7888]

I'm looking forward to the Wisconsin Purdue game on March 1st...

[Dejounte]

I thought folks wanted to get taller? A 6’6” sf isn’t it

[BatManu20]

Holmgren, Ivey, & Jabari Smith all play tonight on ESPN, ESPN2, & SEC Network. I’ll definitely be watching those games while simultaneously watching Spurs whoop up on OKC.

#7 Baylor plays at #11 Texas Tech too. Kendall Brown and Jeremy Sochan for Baylor are both projected top-20 picks.

Lots of good basketball tonight.

[BatManu20]

Adrian Griffin will be had to pass up in the 6-9 range. He’s a 6-6 sf w/7ft wingspan, can shoot well from deep and body folks down low, and I love the fact that his dad was a pro player now assist coach.


He’s moving up Draft boards as he’s been Duke’s best and most consistent player, outshining Banchero who’s had some underwhelming performances lately. He’s not in my top-5 prospects personally but I could easily see the Spurs loving him, his work ethic, his length/body type, and his family pedigree. He’s a smart, physical player who already has an NBA body. Could contribute from Day 1. I think Spurs will be looking hard at he and Keegan Murray if we end up in that 6-10 range.

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vLN6QUfa_hc

[Harry Callahan]

A.J. Griffin looks really good offensively in those two games. Just a freshman and uber talented. good handles and can score from anywhere. Thumbs up......

[Excessive Egotist]

Weird draft class. Most see the Tier 1 as Holmgren, Banchero, and Smith, in some order. But I could see any of Jaden Ivey, Johnny Davis, Shaedon Sharpe, and AJ Griffin going in the top 3-4, for different reasons. Maybe there isn't a Tier 1 in this draft. Perhaps the top of the draft is Tier 2 talent, 7 or 8 players deep. When I compare this class to last year, I'd rank Mobley, Barnes, and Cunningham ahead of everyone in this class. And I'd rate Kuminga, Giddey, and Wagner alongside this year's top picks.

Put differently, I get why people like Chet Holmgren. Great production. Unusual skill set for size. Etc... But he plays in a weak conference, is super thin (how much weight can he add?), and seems to fall over a lot. Wait, why is he picking himself off the floor? Did he trip over a breeze? High variance in terms of potential NBA outcomes.

[TD 21]

I thought folks wanted to get taller? A 6’6” sf isn’t it

Ideally, but this organization is not in a position to turn down best perceived talent no matter the position/measurements.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nba-mock-draft-chet-holmgren-jaden-ivey-aj-griffin

An interesting mock with some nice, (although not sure how useful) tidbits on Spurstalk favorites (or perhaps soon to bes):


10. New York Knicks - Tari Eason
Thanks in no small part to Tari Eason, LSU currently has the best defensive rating in college basketball.
Since 2011 (https://barttorvik.com/playerstat.php?link=y&sIndex=7&minGP=15&minBlk=4&minStl=4&mintp100=1&cvalue=High%20Major&ocvalue=undefined&year=all&start=-11101&end=all0501), excluding non-shooters (minimum: at least one 3-pointer attempted per 100 possessions), Eason would join Gary Payton II and Matisse Thybulle as the only high-major players to record a block percentage and steal percentage both above 4.0 in the same season.




13. Atlanta Hawks: Jeremy Sochan
While playing around with some silly filters, I noticed something interesting. Sochan joins Zion Williamson as the only high-major freshman since 2010 (https://barttorvik.com/playerstat.php?link=y&sIndex=31&minGP=15&minBlk=3.3&minStl=3.3&min3P=0.333&mintp100=3.3&yvalue=Fr&cvalue=High%20Major&ocvalue=undefined&year=all&start=-11101&end=all0501) to record a block percentage and steal percentage both above 3.3% while also shooting at least 33.3% on 3-pointers (minimum: 3.3 attempts per 100 possessions).
Add sophomores and the only others to qualify are valuable NBA players Mikal Bridges, Alex Caruso, and Chuma Okeke.

[Dejounte]

Ideally, but this organization is not in a position to turn down best perceived talent no matter the position/measurements.

I just feel that when a player is not a certain height that folks around here have a mental block of that player ever being talented enough because of their lack of height

i.e. If Keldon was obviously super talented, people would still not get past the lack of height

[Mr. Body]

Weird draft class. Most see the Tier 1 as Holmgren, Banchero, and Smith, in some order.

To be honest, the way media pushes/cements the top picks every year is pretty bizarre. I suppose it's inevitable, but there's such a group think about who the top players are. Banchero and Smith are getting permanent acclaim from ESPN, etc., that unless they shit the bed, they're going very high no matter what -- fanbases and owners won't let their GMs pass them by.

A lot of it hype. These are good players, but they play for schools ESPN, etc., want to push. Can you imagine the hype Keegan Murray or Ivey would be getting if they went to Duke??

[RC_Drunkford]

Banchero or Smith would be the best options, but I wouldn't be mad if we could get Keegan Murray and Tari Eason. That could be a vicious forward duo going forward

[TD 21]

I just feel that when a player is not a certain height that folks around here have a mental block of that player ever being talented enough because of their lack of height

i.e. If Keldon was obviously super talented, people would still not get past the lack of height

True.

It's two-fold: Many are living in the past and don't realize someone with Griffin's measurements is a combo forward in the modern NBA (without a reliable 3, he's mostly a 4). Many also don't realize that the future core isn't in place. Johnson, Vassell and Primo aren't going anywhere, but Murray is the only one who's earned the right to be called a foundational piece at the moment.

You don't not draft Griffin because of Johnson's presence or Keegan Murray being more of a true four.

[Mnky]

Kid is a monster.

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I'm not sure why he's not getting more hype tbh. Seems like a protypical bucket for today's game. Has that "it" factor too.

[Mr. Body]

I'm not sure why he's not getting more hype tbh. Seems like a protypical bucket for today's game. Has that "it" factor too.

Wisconsin.

[exstatic]

To be honest, the way media pushes/cements the top picks every year is pretty bizarre. I suppose it's inevitable, but there's such a group think about who the top players are. Banchero and Smith are getting permanent acclaim from ESPN, etc., that unless they shit the bed, they're going very high no matter what -- fanbases and owners won't let their GMs pass them by.

A lot of it hype. These are good players, but they play for schools ESPN, etc., want to push. Can you imagine the hype Keegan Murray or Ivey would be getting if they went to Duke??

Iveys getting a lot of hype as it is. I think part of it’s the other way, too. The kids go to the big schools to GET the hype.

[Dejounte]

True.

It's two-fold: Many are living in the past and don't realize someone with Griffin's measurements is a combo forward in the modern NBA (without a reliable 3, he's mostly a 4). Many also don't realize that the future core isn't in place. Johnson, Vassell and Primo aren't going anywhere, but Murray is the only one who's earned the right to be called a foundational piece at the moment.

You don't not draft Griffin because of Johnson's presence or Keegan Murray being more of a true four.

Well, whatever the case may be with fans, the recent action of trading White clears everything up as far as what the Spurs’ approach is going forward. We know where the Spurs stand and what their priorities are: they have no loyalty to any player that they believe isn’t a building block. With White, it may look like it took a while for the Spurs to decide between him and Murray, but the trigger(s) may have been waiting to see which of the two would separate themselves developmentally and/or having another pipeline prospect (Primo) right behind him to take their place. IMO, these are justifiable reasons to wait as long as they did, and much credit has to be given to the Spurs for having the foresight (of seeing star potential in Murray when most couldn’t) and the planning to get to this point.

I think if the Spurs draft a SF/PF, one of Vassell and Keldon will see the same fate as White Hopefully, it’s due to a Murray-like rise from one of them to make it painfully obvious who should go.

[TD 21]

I think if the Spurs draft a SF/PF, one of Vassell and Keldon will see the same fate as White Hopefully, it’s due to a Murray-like rise from one of them to make it painfully obvious who should go.

I don't see it. Despite Vassell inexplicably playing some nominal four due to poor roster construction, he's a 2.5 and Johnson is a 3.5, they're 21 and 22 respectively and it's difficult to have too many wings considering they generally comprise 60% of most lineups.

They're also ineligible or don't have to be extended for a while and not that their was a lack of financial flexibility, but even more has opened it and it's likely even more is on the verge.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

As much as I like Jabari Smith Jr, I would be lying if I didn’t say I’m worried about his shot selection. He takes entirely too many jumpers and I haven’t seen him nearly enough take advantage of his size advantage when guarded by smaller guys or his quickness advantage when guarded by other bigs……

it’s going to be super interesting to see where we pick and what the rumors are for what we might be scouting.

[Dejounte]

As much as I like Jabari Smith Jr, I would be lying if I didn’t say I’m worried about his shot selection. He takes entirely too many jumpers and I haven’t seen him nearly enough take advantage of his size advantage when guarded by smaller guys or his quickness advantage when guarded by other bigs……

it’s going to be super interesting to see where we pick and what the rumors are for what we might be scouting.


Jabari Smith’s closest matches: Rudy Gay, Patrick Williams, Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram. Stats back it up— Jabari prefers contested mid range 2’s and shoots them average-to-poor, just like these guys.

Not the type of guys I think you could win with with them as your #1 or #2 guy. Waste of a top 5 pick, IMO.

Its what I’ve said for awhile and these are my closest comps right now. We don’t need a guy who settles for ill advised jumpers. And guys of that type barely make it to stardom unless they are A+ out of this world shooters

[Kurik]

If the Spurs pick at 7 or 8 I could see them picking Mathurin from Arizona. He’s not my favorite prospect or anything just seems like a Spurs pick, Canadian but played in Mexico for high school. Has good size and shoots the ball well.

[BackHome]

I agree I don’t think think we are going to land a top 6 draft pick and one thing I like about him is that he shoots and makes a ton of 3 pointers and we desperately need better outside shooting on this team. He can take it to the rim or hit mid range and like I said his bread and butter is the 3 ball. He is definitely not just a 3 and D player so would not be a bad pick at all.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/codyworsham/status/1494152043052814337?s=21

https://twitter.com/codyworsham/status/1494152044575346688?s=21

[Ditty]

Dejounte (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=51342) what is your opinion on Shaedon Sharpe if he declares? I see a few respected posters on here have their worries that he could be Wiseman 2.0. I just think if we can’t get our hands on Chet, Ivey and Banchero. I think Sharpe might he the type of player you take a risk on due to his ceiling if you drafting mid lottery.

[BatManu20]

Jabari Smith with a huge game last night, after struggling these past couple weeks. Hit 7 3’s on 7/10 shooting, and shot 60% in the game in a Win against Vanderbilt. Good stuff.


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[BatManu20]

Meanwhile, Jaden Ivey with his worst performance of the season last night, and his second bad game in a row. Not sure what’s going on with him, but he looked like shit last night. Not even any highlights worth posting.

He scored 8 pts on 2/12 shooting and 0/5 from 3. Didn’t look as engaged defensively last night either. Just a really forgettable game from him. Not gonna put too much stock into it though as we’ve seen enough big games from him this season to know that these were just a couple bad games.

[BatManu20]

Chet Holmgren with another strong showing last night against a weaker opponent in Pepperdine. Dropped 18 pts, 17 rbs & 4 blks on 6/11 shooting, including 2/5 from 3. Still think he ends up going #1 in this draft. He’s a difference maker on both ends, and arguably the greatest 19 year-old shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. His length on the defensive end is ridiculous. I want to see how he plays against better competition though.


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[BatManu20]

Should be noted that Holmgren is shooting a ridiculous 46% from 3 this season. And 63% from the field overall. Ridiculously good for anyone, let alone a freshman.

But again, Gonzaga’s schedule has been pretty vanilla thus far outside of the Duke, UCLA, Bama and Texas games. Wanna seen him against some better comp soon.

[BatManu20]

Kendall Brown and Jeremy Sochan both had terrible games for #7-ranked Baylor last night as they lost on the road to #11 Texas Tech. Brown is clearly one of the best athletes in this draft and a solid defender, but he’s a project as far as I’m concerned. He disappears for long stretches during almost every game it seems like. You almost forget he’s on the floor for the most part at times (until he throws down a lob and shows off his elite athleticism). His performance last night was bad. He finished with 7 pts & 3 rbs on 2/6 shooting, and a couple of those 7 pts came in garbage time. He was just nowhere to be found offensively.

Sochan it’s usually a bit more impactful, but he didn’t do a whole lot either last night. He shot 3/7 from the field for 8 pts & 10 rbs. Just a bad game from Baylor overall. Been watching Sochan a bit more lately cause he’s a true PF and the Spurs are in the market for one with one of their picks this year, but he hasn’t impressed all the much so far.

[The Truth #6]

Its what I’ve said for awhile and these are my closest comps right now. We don’t need a guy who settles for ill advised jumpers. And guys of that type barely make it to stardom unless they are A+ out of this world shooters

Solid insight.

On a tangent, we may not even be in the running for him anyway if we continue to win while other teams begin to overtly tank.

[Drom John]

But again, Gonzaga’s schedule has been pretty vanilla thus far outside of the Duke, UCLA, Bama and Texas games. Wanna seen him against some better comp soon.

According to KenPom, Gonzaga has faced the 152nd toughest schedule.
Ken Pom's 152nd best team:
Sam Houston State.

FWIW, toughest schedule:
Alabama.

[BatManu20]

According to KenPom, Gonzaga has faced the 152nd toughest schedule.
Ken Pom's 152nd best team:
Sam Houston State.

FWIW, toughest schedule:
Alabama.

Yikes. Yea I was looking at their schedule yesterday and couldn’t believe how easy it was. The definition of cupcake. But they did beat UCLA and Texas, and barely lost to Duke. So they’re obv a good team. Just wanna see Chet play against some better competition so I can get a better gauge on him.

[Seventyniner]

Yikes. Yea I was looking at their schedule yesterday and couldn’t believe how easy it was. The definition of cupcake. But they did beat UCLA and Texas, and barely lost to Duke. So they’re obv a good team. Just wanna see Chet play against some better competition so I can get a better gauge on him.

They should play some good teams in the tournament too.

[Mr. Body]

According to KenPom, Gonzaga has faced the 152nd toughest schedule.
Ken Pom's 152nd best team:
Sam Houston State.

FWIW, toughest schedule:
Alabama.

This is pretty common for Gonzaga. Their conference is pretty trash. They schedule hard teams in non-conference, then play clowns for three months, then normally get overranked in the Tournament.

[Truckules]

Here's an interesting article on preference for a side, handedness, and finishing at the rim for some of the top prospects: https://synergysports.com/a-love-letter-to-lefty-layups/. Some interesting things: Jabari Smith is weirdly better with his left hand at the rim, Chet Holmgren basically can't be stopped on a layup, and Jaden Ivey is surprisingly bad at finishing at the rim.

[Mnky]

Wisconsin.

You right.

[Dejounte]

Dejounte (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=51342) what is your opinion on Shaedon Sharpe if he declares? I see a few respected posters on here have their worries that he could be Wiseman 2.0. I just think if we can’t get our hands on Chet, Ivey and Banchero. I think Sharpe might he the type of player you take a risk on due to his ceiling if you drafting mid lottery.

Incredibly difficult when all one has are high school tapes where his a third of his competition probably didnt go on to play college ball and another third are probably a foot shorter than him. Mid lottery is where I’d be comfortable drafting him, but if the Spurs draft him with our highest pick, I’m inclined to trust their judgment.

[emanueldavidginobili]

I think the Spurs are eying Keegan Murray or AJ Griffin, I wouldn't mind either of them tbh. I think the Spurs pick 7-10 if no trades are involved to move up.

[BatManu20]

Keegan Murray finishes with 23 pts & 8 rbs on 9/23 shooting in a close home loss to Michigan. He left the game with cramps for about 5 minutes in the 2nd Half. Showed some of his versatility but not his greatest showing, as he didn’t shoot well and missed the game-tying 3-pt attempt.

1494475871419518978

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/1494186982905311234?s=21

This is why I think it’s not a smart idea to go for a big whose calling card is defense and is limited offensively. Duren would be a mistake if he’s drafted with our highest pick.

[BatManu20]

Bennedict Mathurin with 20 pts, 2 rbs, & 2 stls tonight on 6/14 shooting in a win. Showed off his stroke and his athleticism a bit.


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[Kurik]

Bennedict Mathurin with 20 pts, 2 rbs, & 2 stls tonight on 6/14 shooting in a win. Showed off his stroke and his athleticism a bit.


1494476161178558466

He’s rising on my list, will be interested to see how he does in the tourney.

[Mr. Body]

https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/1494186982905311234?s=21

This is why I think it’s not a smart idea to go for a big whose calling card is defense and is limited offensively. Duren would be a mistake if he’s drafted with our highest pick.

I'm guessing LeBron James had a lot to do with it.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

https://twitter.com/statmuse/status/1494186982905311234?s=21

This is why I think it’s not a smart idea to go for a big whose calling card is defense and is limited offensively. Duren would be a mistake if he’s drafted with our highest pick.

I agree about Duren, however, Gobert simply refuses to guard on the perimeter. He plays like centers did in the 90s, camping under the rim. He's good at what he does, probably the best in the league, but his play can be exploited, especially in the playoffs where teams will go small and force them to switch.

[PhantomDashCam]

I'm still in the process of forming an opinion on Jalen Duren.

I understand the allure of the physical characteristics of such a player as I still think 'C' is the most underrated, foundational piece on a winning team.
The question I would ask is how does he compare to Poeltl right now and what is his projected development across 3-4 years on a team such as the Spurs, (which would make him 22-23 yo)?

I also think there is something to be said about a team being required to match up to you, not the other way around.

Now I'm not saying Duren is that now (or that he may ever be) but I'm sure it is something that GMs will think about...

There was an article on Basketballnews.com about Duren and Memphis specifically that I found interesting:
https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2022-nba-draft-jalen-duren


...After peaking at No. 9 in the rankings, Memphis hit quite a bit of turmoil, as a fissure began to form in the locker room following a string of losses. In an interview with The Athletic, Penny said, "We've got so much negativity in our locker room with veterans being jealous. Everybody's trying to get to the NBA off the ranking we had, but nobody is willing to sacrifice minutes, touches, anything. It's been miserable. You can imagine what a 17-year-old is thinking as he's trying to figure it out." Duren has remained positive for the team despite the turmoil, averaging 9.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game. I recently saw Duren take on the Central Florida Knights in a game that wasn't highly contested, as Memphis struggled.

Pregame, Duren warmed up and stretched largely individually. He came sporting a very quiet, "I'm about my business" demeanor in which he was locked-in and wasn't particularly jovial. Duren was most impactful defensively during the game, where he registered 3 blocks and was an intimidator in the paint. Offensively he struggled to get into his groove in a game where the Tigers were severely short-handed (only 7 players played, as Jayden Hardaway got injured early)...



It's also important to remember he's dominated his peers previously at Pangos and reclassified for the 2022 year from 2023...

From NBADraft.nets Pangos 2021 breakdown - (Previous Pangos Standouts include Scottie Barnes, Evan Mobley, Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley, to name but a few):


1 Jalen Duren (https://www.nbadraft.net/players/jalen-duren/) 6-10 260 PF/C Montverde Academy (2022)

Duren came out with a strong performance on Day One showing solid touch on his jumpshot. He registered a very impressive 18 point 18 rebound game against Team Syracuse (Kel’el Ware and Taylor Bol Bowen). His shot is a little flat, and he cooled off some shooting but found ways to impact the game with his tremendous passing, rebounding and defensive ability. He’s a specimen type of athlete and has really adding some impressive wrinkles to his game. How much has his game evolved? Duren was leading the camp in assists after three games. He’s also got incredible hands, which is a huge asset as so many bigs are a step slow to react to plays at the next level and fumble passes or just don’t have the ability to effortlessly make plays with their hand-eye coordination.


With the Spurs having three potential firsts, if they feel there is somewhat of a neutrality between the wings where they are selecting them, it may make sense to take Duren if he does fall into the teens.

[BacktoBasics]

I'm still in the process of forming an opinion on Jalen Duren.

I understand the allure of the physical characteristics of such a player as I still think 'C' is the most underrated, foundational piece on a winning team.
The question I would ask is how does he compare to Poeltl right now and what is his projected development across 3-4 years on a team such as the Spurs, (which would make him 22-23 yo)?

I also think there is something to be said about a team being required to match up to you, not the other way around.

Now I'm not saying Duren is that now (or that he may ever be) but I'm sure it is something that GMs will think about...

There was an article on Basketballnews.com about Duren and Memphis specifically that I found interesting:
https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2022-nba-draft-jalen-duren



It's also important to remember he's dominated his peers previously at Pangos and reclassified for the 2022 year from 2023...

From NBADraft.nets Pangos 2021 breakdown - (Previous Pangos Standouts include Scottie Barnes, Evan Mobley, Cade Cunningham and Evan Mobley, to name but a few):




With the Spurs having three potential firsts, if they feel there is somewhat of a neutrality between the wings where they are selecting them, it may make sense to take Duren if he does fall into the teens.
Kinda hard to think that he would fall into the teens. It's debatable that he's even a gamble at 8-9-10.

[exstatic]

Kinda hard to think that he would fall into the teens. It's debatable that he's even a gamble at 8-9-10.

TaT currently has him at 11 in both their Mock and their Big Board.

[CGD]

Where is this draft in terms of international talent? Is there a world where Spurs stash one of their later picks?

I feel there is a world where they pick 3 players bc the value of picks will be depressed this year. To many teams have multiple picks this go around.

[spursince#99]

Johnny Davis will be a superstar. We will regret not selecting him, unless we do.

[exstatic]

Where is this draft in terms of international talent? Is there a world where Spurs stash one of their later picks?

I feel there is a world where they pick 3 players bc the value of picks will be depressed this year. To many teams have multiple picks this go around.

A FRP has to agree IN WRITING to not come over in order to be stashed.

[PhantomDashCam]

Kinda hard to think that he would fall into the teens. It's debatable that he's even a gamble at 8-9-10.

Yeah I think that’s a fair assessment too. My money is on OKC (if their pick slides out of the top 4) or Portland (multiple, likely early firsts) to pick him up.

[exstatic]

Yeah I think that’s a fair assessment too. My money is on OKC (if their pick slides out of the top 4) or Portland (multiple, likely early firsts) to pick him up.

I’d be surprised if Portland took him. They had discussions with Nurk around the deadline, and both parties want to move forward. If they picked Duran, it might wind up being another Jalen Smoth debacle, since there just aren’t very many big man minutes to be had. Before you chime in, it wouldn’t shock me to see Jak dealt during the draft. Fucking Charlotte is in frefall, and probably has a bad case of non buyers remorse.

[talkspurs]

I’d be surprised if Portland took him. They had discussions with Nurk around the deadline, and both parties want to move forward. If they picked Duran, it might wind up being another Jalen Smoth debacle, since there just aren’t very many big man minutes to be had. Before you chime in, it wouldn’t shock me to see Jak dealt during the draft. Fucking Charlotte is in frefall, and probably has a bad case of non buyers remorse.

Ive been watching that as well. I wonder what we can get from them for Jak. I figure it would probbaly be the same package but they would give up their first. wonder if we could get 2 first if even that are in the future.

[exstatic]

Ive been watching that as well. I wonder what we can get from them for Jak. I figure it would probbaly be the same package but they would give up their first. wonder if we could get 2 first if even that are in the future.

Jordan was the GOAT, but as a GM, he’s strictly a bench scrub.

[CGD]

Ive been watching that as well. I wonder what we can get from them for Jak. I figure it would probbaly be the same package but they would give up their first. wonder if we could get 2 first if even that are in the future.

CHA is definitely one of my “trade up” draft target teams. I’m just not sure if Jak + BOS’s pick is worth it for 14, but maybe if they slide to 11 range.

I also like Portland who could have 2 picks in 7-10 range. Could see using both BOS/TOR picks to get up to 10. Or Keldon and one of those to get up to 8.

WAS also looks tasty.

[PhantomDashCam]

I’d be surprised if Portland took him. They had discussions with Nurk around the deadline, and both parties want to move forward. If they picked Duran, it might wind up being another Jalen Smoth debacle, since there just aren’t very many big man minutes to be had. Before you chime in, it wouldn’t shock me to see Jak dealt during the draft. Fucking Charlotte is in frefall, and probably has a bad case of non buyers remorse.

I think the sticking point for Charlotte and the Spurs deal was that first round pick which is now looking likely lottery. I do think Poeltl is available for the right price as talks sounded like they were pretty far along with Charlotte.

Despite Portlands recent 4 game spurt, I absolutely think they’ll be rebuilding, unloading Dame and Nurk in the off-season just feels inevitable considering their age and recent moves. I mean if a Dame, CJ backcourt wasn’t cutting it defensively; Simmons surely would bring similar shortcomings.

[JeffDuncan]

Jordan was the GOAT, but as a GM, he’s strictly a bench scrub.


Just a note that Charlotte’s GM is Mitch Kupchak.

[exstatic]

I think the sticking point for Charlotte and the Spurs deal was that first round pick which is now looking likely lottery. I do think Poeltl is available for the right price as talks sounded like they were pretty far along with Charlotte.

Despite Portlands recent 4 game spurt, I absolutely think they’ll be rebuilding, unloading Dame and Nurk in the off-season just feels inevitable considering their age and recent moves. I mean if a Dame, CJ backcourt wasn’t cutting it defensively; Simmons surely would bring similar shortcomings.

I think you’re wrong on that. I think they’re trying to maximize their picks, but they just throw them in with Dame and Nurk, which is why I was thinking the won’t pick Duren.

[BatManu20]

1494745427526123521

[RC_Drunkford]

1494745427526123521

he's definitely my top pick if we fall out of the top 4. The only thing is he's an offball player, but not really an iso scorer. Would fit our playing style, but ideally we need somebody who can get buckets in isolation

[rankingtear]

1494745427526123521

I am down on guys listed as exclusive 4 in college. Almost all of them tend to play the backup small ball 5 in the NBA. Just a hard position to fill skill wise. Tend to think getting a 225+ lbs SF is a better investment.

[Ocotillo]

1494745427526123521

The highlights show what the anti-Pop folks stereotype as a player Pop doesn't like.

:pop: I see a lot of dunks and threes, he needs to get over himself.

[CGD]

1494745427526123521

What’s the drop off between this guy and Tari Eason? I think i like Easons shooting potential, but beyond that don’t know the key difference. They both are the same age.

[Dejounte]

Tari is a superb on defense. Keegan is a more natural shooter.

I like Tari’s handles better because he dribbles the ball like a wing whereas Keegan goes where he needs to go with the ball and that’s it. Because of this, I think Tari’s upside is higher (but lower floor).

from interviews and such, Keegan seems like your typical Spur. Tari is a bit abrasive, but does seem like he’s a go-getter.

For fast breaks, Keegan is your guy. He will excel there and will make the Spurs fun as hell to watch.

if you want to see more defense, Tari is your guy. If he has his head screwed on straight, he could be the best two way player of the draft.

i don’t think theres much of a drop off. You can’t go wrong with either.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

I am down on guys listed as exclusive 4 in college. Almost all of them tend to play the backup small ball 5 in the NBA. Just a hard position to fill skill wise. Tend to think getting a 225+ lbs SF is a better investment.

I have the same issue with Keegan Murray among other players of this ilk. Is he really a 4 on the NBA level? He's not very fluid, uses more strength than skill against college players, has slower legs, not much of a switch defender, handles are alright but not good, shooting is alright but not good, etc. If he can survive as a modern 4 that'd be great but if he's a small ball 5 then his value drops significantly.

[CGD]

Tari is a superb on defense. Keegan is a more natural shooter.

I like Tari’s handles better because he dribbles the ball like a wing whereas Keegan goes where he needs to go with the ball and that’s it. Because of this, I think Tari’s upside is higher (but lower floor).

from interviews and such, Keegan seems like your typical Spur. Tari is a bit abrasive, but does seem like he’s a go-getter.

For fast breaks, Keegan is your guy. He will excel there and will make the Spurs fun as hell to watch.

if you want to see more defense, Tari is your guy. If he has his head screwed on straight, he could be the best two way player of the draft.

i don’t think theres much of a drop off. You can’t go wrong with either.

Helpful thanks

[duncan2150]

I have the same issue with Keegan Murray among other players of this ilk. Is he really a 4 on the NBA level? He's not very fluid, uses more strength than skill against college players, has slower legs, not much of a switch defender, handles are alright but not good, shooting is alright but not good, etc. If he can survive as a modern 4 that'd be great but if he's a small ball 5 then his value drops significantly.

I don't totally agree, i don't see Murray using his strenght. He's more a guy who uses his IQ and skills. The concern for me is his size, he's a little bit short for a PF, tough not that much in today's NBA.

Imo he'll never be a small ball 5 regularly.

[CGD]

I am down on guys listed as exclusive 4 in college. Almost all of them tend to play the backup small ball 5 in the NBA. Just a hard position to fill skill wise. Tend to think getting a 225+ lbs SF is a better investment.

Don’t disagree, but looks like this guy has the range at least to be more versatile on offense than the mold your describing. Will come down to their ability to guard multiple positions on D.

That said, I’m also partial to investing the higher pick on a legit SF prospect and my guy is Griffin Jr.

[duncan2150]

Tari is a superb on defense. Keegan is a more natural shooter.

I like Tari’s handles better because he dribbles the ball like a wing whereas Keegan goes where he needs to go with the ball and that’s it. Because of this, I think Tari’s upside is higher (but lower floor).

from interviews and such, Keegan seems like your typical Spur. Tari is a bit abrasive, but does seem like he’s a go-getter.

For fast breaks, Keegan is your guy. He will excel there and will make the Spurs fun as hell to watch.

if you want to see more defense, Tari is your guy. If he has his head screwed on straight, he could be the best two way player of the draft.

i don’t think theres much of a drop off. You can’t go wrong with either.

I agree with you on the differencies

One other thing, i see Eason playing more like a 3 and Murray like a 4. I can see Eason developing in some sort of PF, energetic, can defend, shoot is in progress... ( i don't see him playing in the post) but i don't see Murrray developing as a SF.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/iSSo5VsxqVs

The template is there for Tari. I like his potential more to be a Kuminga stopper (or whoever the next big thing for the big wing position). I don’t really see shut down defense in Keegan’s future, but maybe I’m wrong. The Spurs can’t continue letting guys play bully ball against them. I think Tari would be able to go toe to toe one day against the likes of Paul George, Durant, etc.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/T-I_UEKp_7c

Here’s that abrasiveness I was talking about…

dude interrupted his own teammate and said, “what he’s trying to say is…”

talk about rude and socially awkward :lmao

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/khpVZyYRgTs

Near the end of this clip…

Tari’s teammate Xavier: “I feel like we are a top tier team when fully healthy.”

Tari butts in and says, “Top five” and looks over at Xavier and Xavier ignores him

cringe

if Tari gets drafted, at least we’ll get some entertainment from his interviews

[bluebellmaniac]

he's definitely my top pick if we fall out of the top 4. The only thing is he's an offball player, but not really an iso scorer. Would fit our playing style, but ideally we need somebody who can get buckets in isolation

Too bad DeRozan is signed with the Bulls for a couple more years. He'd be perfect. </blue font>

[BackHome]

I saw one video clip where Tari mentioned a quote his mother would tell him and the guys started to crack up and then said that Quote he mentioned is a Quote in there gym. Lol

[Dejounte]

I saw one video clip where Tari mentioned a quote his mother would tell him and the guys started to crack up and then said that Quote he mentioned is a Quote in there gym. Lol

:lmao :lmao

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Jordan was the GOAT, but as a GM, he’s strictly a bench scrub.

i didn’t mean to co-sign your statement.

michael Jordan is the majority (90%) owner of the Charlotte Hornets not the GM. Mitch Kupchak is the GM…..

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Not a fan at all of Jalen Duren…… he (along with Emoni Bates) seems like your typical guy who had a growth spurt in high school and dominated because he was bigger, faster and stronger than most of the competition.

i Really like Eason, Keagan Murray, Sochan, and Jovic if we pick in the 6-12 area of this draft.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

https://youtu.be/T-I_UEKp_7c

Here’s that abrasiveness I was talking about…

dude interrupted his own teammate and said, “what he’s trying to say is…”

talk about rude and socially awkward :lmao

that wasn’t even as bad as you made it out to be……

his teammate was beating around the bush and making the question harder to answer than it was. Dude told the truth that the team they played was under matched versus them. Lmao.

[ZeusWillJudge]

https://youtu.be/iSSo5VsxqVs

The template is there for Tari. I like his potential more to be a Kuminga stopper (or whoever the next big thing for the big wing position). I don’t really see shut down defense in Keegan’s future, but maybe I’m wrong. The Spurs can’t continue letting guys play bully ball against them. I think Tari would be able to go toe to toe one day against the likes of Paul George, Durant, etc.


Have you watched him play much? He's a good player, no doubt, and I think he can legitimately guard 3 positions. But he's a me-first guy on offense. He has too many TO's and too few AST's because of it.

There is something about him that reminds me of SJax. Size, build, attitude. I don't mind "abrasiveness" in interviews. But a me-first guy better be really good. And like SJax, I think his 3P% will always be just a little shy of what you covet for the modern game. Partly because of his stroke, and partly because the way he plays makes for bad decisions. Some guys outgrow, but with him my gut says it's baked into his personality.

He could possibly have a ceiling something like SJax, and I would look a little less god-like for not wanting the Spurs to pick him. But, personally, I'd look elsewhere.

[Dejounte]

Have you watched him play much? He's a good player, no doubt, and I think he can legitimately guard 3 positions. But he's a me-first guy on offense. He has too many TO's and too few AST's because of it.

There is something about him that reminds me of SJax. Size, build, attitude. I don't mind "abrasiveness" in interviews. But a me-first guy better be really good. And like SJax, I think his 3P% will always be just a little shy of what you covet for the modern game. Partly because of his stroke, and partly because the way he plays makes for bad decisions. Some guys outgrow, but with him my gut says it's baked into his personality.

He could possibly have a ceiling something like SJax, and I would look a little less god-like for not wanting the Spurs to pick him. But, personally, I'd look elsewhere.

Have you watched the Spurs play much? A team full of "me-last" guys like the Spurs needs a me-first guy like Tari on offense. I've repeatedly said taking on Tari is a gamble and has a lower floor than others. The thing is, he's a better gamble than many others because of his combination of skill and size. You've got a lot of players in this draft with a lot of size, but their skill is all theoretical. Sure, if they come in and blow everyone away in workouts, then go for it. Until then, there's not many players that could bring what Tari could bring if he meets his potential. This team needs a player with S-Jax's attitude in a bad way.

[Mr. Body]

Have you watched the Spurs play much? A team full of "me-last" guys like the Spurs needs a me-first guy like Tari on offense. I've repeatedly said taking on Tari is a gamble and has a lower floor than others. The thing is, he's a better gamble than many others because of his combination of skill and size. You've got a lot of players in this draft with a lot of size, but their skill is all theoretical. Sure, if they come in and blow everyone away in workouts, then go for it. Until then, there's not many players that could bring what Tari could bring if he meets his potential. This team needs a player with S-Jax's attitude in a bad way.

This is absolutely never how the Spurs will work. I don't know why people say shit like this, like suddenly they want the Spurs to be the Iverson Sixers. Maybe there's a massive, massive culture change, but this ain't it. Pretending otherwise is nonsense. I'm not even sure Ivey would work in the Spurs culture and not because of character but in play style.

[Mr. Body]

Meanwhile, Keegan Murray has 18 of Iowa's first 25 points within eleven minutes, and they're all within the flow of the team's offense. He's shredding OSU. I maintain my Paul Pierce comparisons. Slight differences in position, but their impact is similar.

[BackHome]

I agree Keegan has a high floor and medium ceilings and Tari has medium floor and potential high ceiling a lot will depend on background and interviews and work out. My concern is that both are small for PF 6’8 one question I have is how much time could you see Tari playing SF?

[KingKev]

This is absolutely never how the Spurs will work. I don't know why people say shit like this, like suddenly they want the Spurs to be the Iverson Sixers. Maybe there's a massive, massive culture change, but this ain't it. Pretending otherwise is nonsense. I'm not even sure Ivey would work in the Spurs culture and not because of character but in play style.

I think what he is getting at is we need some balance on this team. Dejounte (the player) is having to balance too many roles in terms of scoring, distrivuting/playmaking and calling his own card. We need a couple of guys who are a tad more me first in certain situations. The whole roster can feed off of that energy.

[Mr. Body]

I think what he is getting at is we need some balance on this team. Dejounte (the player) is having to balance too many roles in terms of scoring, distrivuting/playmaking and calling his own card. We need a couple of guys who are a tad more me first in certain situations. The whole roster can feed off of that energy.

That's not what he's saying. He's calling for an Allen Iverson player who calls his own number all the time because that's how the team is set.

[mo7888]

I'd take Keegan over Tari myself. I also see quite a few mocks showing Tari in the late teens to low twenties. I'm guessing that's an attitude/ coachability thing?

[exstatic]

Not a fan at all of Jalen Duren…… he (along with Emoni Bates) seems like your typical guy who had a growth spurt in high school and dominated because he was bigger, faster and stronger than most of the competition.

i Really like Eason, Keagan Murray, Sochan, and Jovic if we pick in the 6-12 area of this draft.

Even Penny says that the U Memphis locker room is toxic. Once they were ranked in the top 10, everyone stopped sharing the ball, because they all thought they were NBA bound A big man who doesn’t get passed to has no chance to excel. Anyways, he’ll have his chance to show his stuff at the draft combine. Supposedly, in HS and AAU, he flashed a pretty complete skill set, including passing.

[BackHome]

I'd take Keegan over Tari myself. I also see quite a few mocks showing Tari in the late teens to low twenties. I'm guessing that's an attitude/ coachability thing?

Most mocks are kinda old and some are really bad like draft.net - Tari has been steadily rising in a lot of mocks where have him as high as 13 and he play has only gotten better. As DJ mentioned he is an elite defender as far as attitude I don’t think that’s a problem as LSU plays good team basketball and they all really love playing defense

[Kurik]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9vxcaAEmhg

Some highlights of Dyson Daniels, 18yo from Australia who plays for the G-League. Quite a few mocks have him around where the Spurs will pick with the later 2 FRPs. Seems like a prospect the Spurs would scout.

[BackHome]

https://youtu.be/KnvvyaL1-Iw

”Tari is the anchor of our defense”

LSU was ranked 135th on defense last year

this year? When Tari transferred there, they are now ranked 1st in college

i would take Tari as high as 6th pick.

If you go past mid way of video 4:59 you see something funny where Tari talks about “Chance favors the aggressor”. It’s actually really funny and I am sure his team mates will never let him live it down.

[D-Robinson 50 fan]

Even Penny says that the U Memphis locker room is toxic. Once they were ranked in the top 10, everyone stopped sharing the ball, because they all thought they were NBA bound A big man who doesn’t get passed to has no chance to excel. Anyways, he’ll have his chance to show his stuff at the draft combine. Supposedly, in HS and AAU, he flashed a pretty complete skill set, including passing.

As great a player as Penny was, he is as bad as a coach. Lmao. He shouldn’t let rankings make he players think they are better than what they are and he definitely should put them in better positions than what he has since coaching at Memphis

so I will cut Duren some slack in that regard but I still don’t see the hype with this guy since being in college. He is a really good athlete for a big but he isn’t even as tall as they list him as from the games I’ve seen. They have him listed at 6’11” but the guy looks no taller than 6’9” and for as good as he is athletically his awareness doesn’t look that sharp.

The combine is gonna real make or break how high he goes in this draft because the college tape has really hurt his stock.

[BatManu20]

As great a player as Penny was, he is as bad as a coach. Lmao. He shouldn’t let rankings make he players think they are better than what they are and he definitely should put them in better positions than what he has since coaching at Memphis

so I will cut Duren some slack in that regard but I still don’t see the hype with this guy since being in college. He is a really good athlete for a big but he isn’t even as tall as they list him as from the games I’ve seen. They have him listed at 6’11” but the guy looks no taller than 6’9” and for as good as he is athletically his awareness doesn’t look that sharp.

The combine is gonna real make or break how high he goes in this draft because the college tape has really hurt his stock.

You have to remember that Duren is supposed to be in High School right now. He enrolled at Memphis early and just turned 18 a couple months ago. He’ll be the youngest player in the upcoming Draft. To have his physical gifts at his age is impressive. And he is in fact 6’11. Or at the very least 6’10 and change, as he’s clearly an inch or two taller than his teammate, 6’9 Emoni Bates. My concerns with him are his offensive game though, and whether or not they’ll ever develop into something of substance. That’s the real question.

[BackHome]

If we have to draft at 11 or 12 then I would consider him but if we drafting 4 to 8 he is not someone I would invest that high of a draft pick on. Unless your moving Poodle and know we will be getting first round picks I see no reason to invest in the same type of player at such an early pick

[BatManu20]

Watching Johnny Davis tear it up against Michigan right now. Quickly becoming my favorite player in this draft. Love his game, his confidence, and his competitive spirit. Best PnR player in the country. He’s also a really good passer. Plays hard on defense. Kid is a star.

We likely won’t be selecting high enough to grab him though sadly.


1495461757179121673

[R. DeMurre]

Tari seems to have an odd vibe with his teammates... not very chummy.

[Kurik]

https://youtu.be/B22bMCwTqY4



Highlights of Mathurin’s game against Oregon last night, I really like his game and it may be easy to compare him to Vassell but I see him as a volume 3pt shooter in the NBA with a ton of athleticism.

[BatManu20]

Juwan Howard really just threw a punch at Wisconsin’s Head Coach after the game :lol. What a fucking moron

Same dirty prick who injured Derek Anderson in the 2001 playoffs. Some people never change.

[duncan2150]

https://youtu.be/B22bMCwTqY4



Highlights of Mathurin’s game against Oregon last night, I really like his game and it may be easy to compare him to Vassell but I see him as a volume 3pt shooter in the NBA with a ton of athleticism.


I was going to post it, nice game by Mathurin. I don't know if he can play some SF but he's long ( 6'7 with a 6'9 wingspan), nice player and we could have a canadian connexion with Primo.

Same with Eason and Dj who are from Seattle.

[daslicer]

Juwan Howard really just threw a punch at Wisconsin’s Head Coach after the game :lol. What a fucking moron

Same dirty prick who injured Derek Anderson in the 2001 playoffs. Some people never change.

A friend of mine just sent me that clip of Juwon decking the coach. The first thing that came to my mind when he did it was the Derek Anderson incident.

[Dejounte]

That's not what he's saying. He's calling for an Allen Iverson player who calls his own number all the time because that's how the team is set.

Nah, that’s not what I’m saying. I’m calling for a player who wouldn’t mind calling his own number ANY time as opposed to NO time as with our current group of guys who aren’t very confident about their abilities (and sure, they might get there someday). I want a guy who is confident off the bat, sort of like how DJ was. No hesitation with the ball. No fear mentality. A guy who wants it.

[Dejounte]

https://twitter.com/nbagleague/status/1495522825460977672?s=21

Deadly floater

[emanueldavidginobili]

1495538790789750788

[RC_Drunkford]

as I get more familiar with these players, this really looks like a deep draft

[absoloot66]

1495538790789750788
:wow

[Russ]

as I get more familiar with these players, this really looks like a deep draft

As I get more familiar with these players, it looks like a three deep draft -- J. Smith, Holmgren and Banchero.

At first, I thought that would mean that a parade of bargains would cascade downward. After all, last year there were no legit No. 1 picks, this year there are three.

But as it turns out, it probably doesn't work that way.

Maybe, it's the big three or bust.

If the ping-pong balls don't fall their way, I think the Spurs will make every effort to get one of those three guys.

Maybe it's all or nothing, feast or famine.

[Dejounte]

THE STARE DOWN AT THE CAMERA

[tonight...you]

THE STARE DOWN AT THE CAMERA
That was manly. I like the attitude.

[Kurik]

1495538790789750788

Yeah, that dunk alone makes him my favorite. Damn

[Dejounte]

Fuck it. Trade Vassell and future first round picks for Ivey. If they look and see that he’s a surefire star, why not? It’s like trading for Morant before Morant becomes Morant.

Would you trade the whole roster for Morant? So why wouldn’t you trade it for him when he’s a draft pick?

Purely a hypothetical question. Not even a huge fan of him.

[tonight...you]

Fuck it. Trade Vassell and future first round picks for Ivey. If they look and see that he’s a surefire star, why not? It’s like trading for Morant before Morant becomes Morant.

Would you trade the whole roster for Morant? So why wouldn’t you trade it for him when he’s a draft pick?

Purely a hypothetical question. Not even a huge fan of him.
I wouldn't even use Ja.
I would use Dwayne Wade.
He looks so much like him, but you're betting on goods that haven't ripened and don't know if the fruit is actually going to be good.
You have a good sense of it, but you just don't know.

Hard question.
I think I'd do it.
I wouldn't trade DJ because that defeats the purpose of building a team, but those two together...
Could be electric and something to really focus on building around.

[Dejounte]

I wouldn't even use Ja.
I would use Dwayne Wade.
He looks so much like him, but you're betting on goods that haven't ripened and don't know if the fruit is actually going to be good.
You have a good sense of it, but you just don't know.

Hard question.
I think I'd do it.
I wouldn't trade DJ because that defeats the purpose of building a team, but those two together...
Could be electric and something to really focus on building around.

I agree with Wade. I wasn’t looking for a real comp for Ivey. Just used Morant because he’s relevant right now and it’s easier to imagine.

[BackHome]

It's players like these that make me want to TANK all the way.....:)

[tonight...you]

I agree with Wade. I wasn’t looking for a real comp for Ivey. Just used Morant because he’s relevant right now and it’s easier to imagine.
Totes understand the reasoning.
Makes sense.

And, for the record: I wouldn't trade the roster for Ja.
Wait... maybe I would.
Crap.
Gonna have to noodle on this.

[emanueldavidginobili]

I am all in on Ivey, don't give a fuck about position, height or whatever. Others have made good comparisons, he reminds me of Donovan Mitchell as well. By draft time his stock is going to moon compared to what it is right now imo.

[Dejounte]

I am all in on Ivey, don't give a fuck about position, height or whatever. Others have made good comparisons, he reminds me of Donovan Mitchell as well. By draft time his stock is going to moon compared to what it is right now imo.


Yup. There’s no big 3 at the top. Ivey is your big 1. He sits on a tier of his own. He oozes unquestionable stardom. The Spurs will have to get lucky and draft first to get him though. Banchero is a nice consolation prize for me. After that, the Spurs will do what the Spurs does and hopefully find someone with star talent wherever they pick.

[Mr. Body]

Nah, that’s not what I’m saying. I’m calling for a player who wouldn’t mind calling his own number ANY time as opposed to NO time as with our current group of guys who aren’t very confident about their abilities (and sure, they might get there someday). I want a guy who is confident off the bat, sort of like how DJ was. No hesitation with the ball. No fear mentality. A guy who wants it.

Lol, that's what I'm telling you. This isn't the franchise you're looking for.

[Dejounte]

Lol, that's what I'm telling you. This isn't the franchise you're looking for.

Lol, the same franchise you were so adamant would never let go of Patty. You’re telling me for sure.

[Mr. Body]

Lol, the same franchise you were so adamant would never let go of Patty. You’re telling me for sure.

When the fuck did I say that? Lol, like theyd be playing him until he was 95 fucking years old.

[rankingtear]

Who i like for our late picks:

Max Christie - looks like this years Primo, young high feel versatile shooting with some rim protection.

Dyson Daniels - stat stuffer with what looks like NBA caliber defense. a spurs type project for sure at the PG spot.

Brown and Sochan - i like the idea of them but both are high risk projects.

[KingKev]

I simply don’t watch enough college ball to offer anything to this conversation other than ask questions…

how is Jaden Ivy’s defense? The offensive highlights are very impressive.

How do you guys view a potential pairing of DJ and Ivy in the back court?

[CGD]

Who i like for our late picks:

Max Christie - looks like this years Primo, young high feel versatile shooting with some rim protection.

Dyson Daniels - stat stuffer with what looks like NBA caliber defense. a spurs type project for sure at the PG spot.

Brown and Sochan - i like the idea of them but both are high risk projects.

If they do keep both, I’m looking for a specialist with one and a high risk/high reward with the other (Lonnie/Luka)

[KobesAchilles]

Nah, that’s not what I’m saying. I’m calling for a player who wouldn’t mind calling his own number ANY time as opposed to NO time as with our current group of guys who aren’t very confident about their abilities (and sure, they might get there someday). I want a guy who is confident off the bat, sort of like how DJ was. No hesitation with the ball. No fear mentality. A guy who wants it.
I feel like Ivey is that guy. The dude looks fearless attacking the rim and just has a bunch of confidence in his game. That’s who I’m looking at right now. Though if past drafts are any indication, I am the shittiest drafter :lol

I switched to Kira Lewis over Halliburton last minute and Duarte over Primo

[KingKev]

If they do keep both, I’m looking for a specialist with one and a high risk/high reward with the other (Lonnie/Luka)

haha what is Walker a specialist at? Scoring? LOL

If we keep all 3 I’m definitely good with taking a flier on a high risk/reward guy. Going to be a very entertaining draft night for us regardless. ST servers going to explode!

[B1gduff]

I'm all for Keegab Murray, but is defenisve upside worries be a bit. We need a strong defensive minded that can guard the perimter, and I haven't seen that from Murray. The offensive game is their, I see a bit of Rudy Gay or Tobias harris in him.

[rankingtear]

I'm all for Keegab Murray, but is defenisve upside worries be a bit. We need a strong defensive minded that can guard the perimter, and I haven't seen that from Murray. The offensive game is their, I see a bit of Rudy Gay or Tobias harris in him.

I'm more worried about the hit rate of 22 years old in the lottery. Last good one was Noah in 07.

[B1gduff]

Annother guy that I'm starting to like is bennedict Mathurin, I think he has one of the safest floor in the draft while also having a good ceiling.

His floor is a 3/d guy do to his ability to guard and shoot the 3! (37% on 5 attempts)
His ceilign could be a high end start or All-star a few times in his career.

Him, murray, Sharpe,Davis,and Duren fit the 6-10 picks for me.

[rankingtear]

Yup. There’s no big 3 at the top. Ivey is your big 1. He sits on a tier of his own. He oozes unquestionable stardom. The Spurs will have to get lucky and draft first to get him though. Banchero is a nice consolation prize for me. After that, the Spurs will do what the Spurs does and hopefully find someone with star talent wherever they pick.

Relax man, he's a secondary playmaker with no pull up. He is in the mix but not on a tier of his own.

[JeffDuncan]

I’ve only watched one highlight reel of Ivey, and in that, he reminded me of…. Dejounte Murray.

[KingKev]

I’ve only watched one highlight reel of Ivey, and in that, he reminded me of…. Dejounte Murray.

He seems MUCH more aggressive at attacking the rim but doesn’t seem to do some of the other intangibles DJ did from day one, but again I have not watched much film and only a few games total.

DJ or Jak probably need to go down for an extended period for us to have a realistic shot if he is a legit top 5 pick.

[BackHome]

Who i like for our late picks:

Max Christie - looks like this years Primo, young high feel versatile shooting with some rim protection.

Dyson Daniels - stat stuffer with what looks like NBA caliber defense. a spurs type project for sure at the PG spot.

Brown and Sochan - i like the idea of them but both are high risk projects.

Sochan is a really smart player his game reminds me a lot of Green from Golden State - He is pretty much the leader on defense he is always directing traffic telling people where to be - The only downside to Sochan is that he gives you nothing on shot blocking he is not an explosive athlete.

Brown is probably one of the most athletic player but he can't shoot if he could he would be a top four pick for sure

[RC_Drunkford]

a DJ/Ivey back court would terrorize the NBA. The only thing that worries me about Ivey is his ugly shot release, but he still seems to hit a decent percentage of it

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/Mike_Schmitz/status/1495820648769368065

[Mr. Body]

I feel like Ivey has a team like Houston written all over him. Some superior skills that will never get developed, some areas that are lacking, only passes when he's in trouble. If he goes to Orlando, say, they'll have a great transition offense but will struggle in the halfcourt.

[KingKev]

I feel like Ivey has a team like Houston written all over him. Some superior skills that will never get developed, some areas that are lacking, only passes when he's in trouble. If he goes to Orlando, say, they'll have a great transition offense but will struggle in the halfcourt.

No way his style of play would last long with the old Pop. In his swan song, lame duck Pop might embrace it and get something out of him immediately.

[Mr. Body]

No way his style of play would last long with the old Pop. In his swan song, lame duck Pop might embrace it and get something out of him immediately.

I've been saying this consistently, that he's not a Spurs' type player. I know people freak about that notion. Maybe things change drastically once Pop leaves, but there's a clear mold this franchise looks for.

[keithington1]

I feel like Mathurin/ Murray, Dieng/ Baldwin, Agbaji/ Liddell/ Champagnie would be a good haul. You get an older productive play now player, a high upside prospect, and a proven player who has dominated statistically at the college level.

[KingKev]

I've been saying this consistently, that he's not a Spurs' type player. I know people freak about that notion. Maybe things change drastically once Pop leaves, but there's a clear mold this franchise looks for.

I don’t disagree but I’d retort that this last trade deadline, to me anyways, communicated things are probably going to operate a tad different moving forward. I’m hoping for a rebrand or a tweak of Spurs culture.

We need talent. You can’t use the same filters used in the era of DRob and Duncan when you don’t have guys like that to lead. Pendulum had swung way to far towards Spurs culture, loyalty contracts, needless buyouts and a Mr Nice guy attitude. That is all fine and dandy when you are winning; but we aren’t. I suspect the Spurs take more chances going forward.

[BackHome]

Yeah people forget we bent the rule when we got Detroit Bad boy Rodman on our team so it’s not like we have gotten non Spurs like culture before

[exstatic]

Yeah people forget we bent the rule when we got Detroit Bad boy Rodman on our team so it’s not like we have gotten non Spurs like culture before

That was before the Pop era. We had plenty of those guys, Mad Max, Strickland, Walter Berry. Spurs culture really started with Pop taking the head coaching job.

[CGD]

haha what is Walker a specialist at? Scoring? LOL

If we keep all 3 I’m definitely good with taking a flier on a high risk/reward guy. Going to be a very entertaining draft night for us regardless. ST servers going to explode!

I meant Lonnie and Luka where both in the latter camp (high risk/reward). One flopped and the other may be on another nba team next year, but you can understand why they were picked where they were.

[Dejounte]

When the fuck did I say that? Lol, like theyd be playing him until he was 95 fucking years old.

You consistently said it a year ago and would get pissy whenever someone brought up the notion of the Spurs ever not bringing Patty back because he was such a Spurs’ type player. The same stubbornness is on display here. The fact that you said what you said in your second sentence (something as outrageous as Patty playing til 95 years old) proves you’re just playing dumb now and that you actually remember. You either don’t know the Spurs as well as you think you do or can’t understand that the Spurs are more willing to take chances in pursuit of more talent. I’m not even saying they’ll go after malcontents. You just have it in your mind that anyone who isn’t a perfect dude or doesn’t play 100% unselfish is a malcontent.

[Mr. Body]

You consistently said it a year ago and would get pissy whenever someone brought up the notion of the Spurs ever not bringing Patty back because he was such a Spurs’ type player. The same stubbornness is on display here. The fact that you said what you said in your second sentence (something as outrageous as Patty playing til 95 years old) proves you’re just playing dumb now and that you actually remember. You either don’t know the Spurs as well as you think you do or can’t understand that the Spurs are more willing to take chances in pursuit of more talent. I’m not even saying they’ll go after malcontents. You just have it in your mind that anyone who isn’t a perfect dude or doesn’t play 100% unselfish is a malcontent.

I have no idea what the fuck you're talking about.

[Mr. Body]

Yeah people forget we bent the rule when we got Detroit Bad boy Rodman on our team so it’s not like we have gotten non Spurs like culture before

The point made is not about character in the locker room or in life, the point is in playing style.

[PhantomDashCam]

A great read peoples...

Jabari vs. Paolo: Examining Their Biggest Difference

https://www.thestepien.com/2022/02/15/jabari-vs-paolo-examining-their-biggest-difference/


...Returning to the main subject, the biggest differentiator between these two prospects is their ability to create from a standstill triple threat. Jabari still gets his buckets and we’ll talk about that later. But, Paolo is in another stratosphere when it comes to shaking defenders and creating legit advantages in isolation. (https://www.thestepien.com/2022/02/15/jabari-vs-paolo-examining-their-biggest-difference/)Paolo practically mastering the stutter rip at age 19 while being 6’10” and 250 pounds seems noteworthy. His change of pace and polished footwork have been his best friend as a creator this year. Banchero constantly keeps defenders guessing, using those triple threat packages to gain a step on point-of-attack defenders, before using his frame and craft to get wherever he wants on the floor.
Contrast that to Jabari, who also frequently uses jab steps and creates out of triple threat. When Smith is initiating from a standstill, it feels like his sequences of jabs and rips are simply prerequisites to occupy his defender before rising into an inevitable contested pull-up jumper. They still go in. They go in a lot. Weighing Jabari’s process of getting there versus his actual results is one of the tallest tasks in this entire class, and I want to dig a little deeper with my concerns...




(https://www.thestepien.com/2022/02/15/jabari-vs-paolo-examining-their-biggest-difference/)

[BackHome]

I wouldn’t say anyone in this draft is a sure thing including the top four - They are a lot of shitty teams that haven’t a clue to develop young players

[KingKev]

Keegan Murray looking solid tonight.

[Mr. Body]

Murray's going to face issues with his age. I think it'll drop him later in the lottery. I've likened him a bit to Paul Pierce, who also dropped. Back then, players weren't killed for being older rookies.

[CGD]

Murray's going to face issues with his age. I think it'll drop him later in the lottery. I've likened him a bit to Paul Pierce, who also dropped. Back then, players weren't killed for being older rookies.

Dang, didn’t realize he’ll be nearly 22 by the draft. Wasnt White 22 when we drafted him?

[Mr. Body]

Dang, didn’t realize he’ll be nearly 22 by the draft. Wasnt White 22 when we drafted him?

I believe he was turning 24.

[Mr. Body]

Murray's age is strange to me, because he's only in his second year playing college basketball.

[CGD]

Murray's age is strange to me, because he's only in his second year playing college basketball.

It really is. Im a November bday and remember graduating college when I was 22. On top of it all I usually thought August babies were supposed to be young for their school grade/year, no?

[Kurik]

If the Spurs pick Murray around 8 I can’t be mad about it but totally understand the age thing. Some people compare him to Toppin which is just a disservice to Murray. Assuming the top 4 (Including Ivey) are off the board around pick 7-8 I like Murray, Griffin, or Mathurin. I think Johnny Davis is great I just value 3pt shooting right now which is probably the only knock on Davis.

[R. DeMurre]

Murray's age is strange to me, because he's only in his second year playing college basketball.


From his wiki:

High school career

Murray played basketball for Prairie High School (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prairie_High_School_(Iowa)) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cedar_Rapids,_Iowa).[1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keegan_Murray#cite_note-1) As a senior he averaged 20.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game and was named Metro Player of the Year.[2] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keegan_Murray#cite_note-2) Murray played a postgraduate (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Postgraduate_education) season at DME Academy (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DME_Academy) in Daytona Beach, Florida (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daytona_Beach,_Florida) to gain more exposure.[3] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keegan_Murray#cite_note-3) He averaged 22.1 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, earning most outstanding player honors at the National Prep School Invitational.[4] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keegan_Murray#cite_note-4)[5] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keegan_Murray#cite_note-bio-5) A three-star recruit, he committed to playing college basketball for Iowa (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iowa_Hawkeyes_men%27s_basketball)

[couchman]

The question about Murray is whether he is already near his ceiling as a player

[exstatic]

The history of any lottery picks at 22 isn’t good.

[R. DeMurre]

Interesting what a difference in ages from three 6'8" prospects only a year apart in school:

Keegan Murray, sophomore, born August 19, 2000
Tari Eason, sophomore, born May 10, 2001
Kendall Brown, freshman, born May 11, 2003

Primo was born December 24, 2002
Vassell was born August 23, 2000

[Mr. Body]

The history of any lottery picks at 22 isn’t good.

Yeah, like David Robinson and Tim Duncan.

[KingKev]

The history of any lottery picks at 22 isn’t good.

Something we continue to excel at is youth development so to pay up for someone else's development when me and my team are up there in terms of best in breed is questionable.

All things equal… 3-4 years of a solid college ball program versus 2-3yrs as a Spur what are you riding with? Unless that fella has a promise to his momma i’m all in on our ability to harness and develop that raw talent.

[KingKev]

Interesting what a difference in ages from three 6'8" prospects only a year apart in school:

Keegan Murray, sophomore, born August 19, 2000
Tari Eason, sophomore, born May 10, 2001
Kendall Brown, freshman, born May 11, 2003

Primo was born December 24, 2002
Vassell was born August 23, 2000

Agreed. But Primo and Vassell are 6’5 and haven’t shown anything outstanding.

[rankingtear]

Yeah, like David Robinson and Tim Duncan.

You of all people should know the circumstances of those 2 and Tim was a young 21.

[duncan2150]

The history of any lottery picks at 22 isn’t good.

The thing is you didn't have a lot of old players in the lottery, i remember Cam Johnson, Hachimura and Toppin in recent drafts but that's it. It's difficult to say if a 22 yr old will pan out in the NBA but yes the ceilling is for sure lower than a young player.