Official 2022 NBA Draft thread

[rankingtear]

Marjon Beuchamp is pretty interesting , even top 10. Older prospect whose development was stunted because of a bad decision forgoing college and covid. Looks the part of an all-defensive wing out there with strength, frame and wingspan. Likes the spurs and is from seattle.

[CGD]

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

Makes me a little nervous about the quality of the rest of this draft if K. Murray, at near 22 by draft day, is consistently in the Top 8. Hopefully its more a reflection that he still loads of untapped potential, and not that he's a near finished product ala Duarte last year.

[Mr. Body]

Makes me a little nervous about the quality of the rest of this draft if K. Murray, at near 22 by draft day, is consistently in the Top 8. Hopefully its more a reflection that he still loads of untapped potential, and not that he's a near finished product ala Duarte last year.

I don't know how good a draft this is. To me it seems middling. But Murray pops into the top potential 8 because he's really good and putting up big numbers. As I've said, he's the type of player who used to get drafted in those spots without regard to age. The NBA draft has turned into a nursery.

[R. DeMurre]

Makes me a little nervous about the quality of the rest of this draft if K. Murray, at near 22 by draft day, is consistently in the Top 8. Hopefully its more a reflection that he still loads of untapped potential, and not that he's a near finished product ala Duarte last year.


I understand why GMs shy away from older draftees-- their success rate is definitely lower in this day & age when most of the best college players leave after year one or two-- but I don't think it's absolute. I look at Dejounte, and he's just peaking now at age 25. It looks like K. Murray made the right decision to do a postgraduate year at a basketball academy after high school, so I can see how he might be an outlier as a relatively late bloomer. His numbers in his sophomore year are off the charts, and he actually looks interested in playing defense, unlike Obi Toppin, who I've seen some scouts compare him to, as a scorer.

Man, the draft evaluation process is so interesting and complex. Of Murray, Eason, and Kendall Brown, Murray looks like the best and most mature right now, but he's also the oldest. Eason looks great but he comes off as kind of awkward in interviews, and has what seems like a very strange relationship with his teammates. I love his defensive intensity, but something about his personality gives me bad vibes. Brown is the youngest and has serious impact when he's on the floor, but doesn't like to shoot jumpers at all... so maybe he becomes a Scottie Barnes-like player? He's also the youngest, and his freshman impact stats are far ahead of Murray's and Eason's as freshmen. It's so hard to tell at this point, and I've gone back and forth on those three in the last few weeks.

[PhantomDashCam]

1485094319425933315

Tari’s mom pinned tweet… She appears to be the most important person in his life.
Both show DJ a lot of love fwiw.

[Mr. Body]

I'm totally fine with Tari being a weirdo.

[BatManu20]

1485094319425933315

Tari’s mom pinned tweet… She appears to be the most important person in his life.
Both show DJ a lot of love fwiw.

Pop might draft him on politics alone tbh.

[BatManu20]

Jabari Smith, Balonchero, Johnny Davis, Tari Eason, & TyTy Washington all play tonight. Good night of college hoops.

[R. DeMurre]

The other thing is defense tends to translate better from college to the NBA than offense, and Tari's D rates high. So, if he's a 6'8" Matisse Thybulle + offense, that could be incredible.

[BatManu20]

1496509975295893507

[emanueldavidginobili]

This came out today on ESPN+

Jonathan Givony's NBA mock draft

1. Detroit Pistons (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/det/detroit-pistons)
Chet Holmgren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433255/chet-holmgren) | Gonzaga | 7-0 | PF | Age: 19.8
2. Orlando Magic (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/orl/orlando-magic)
Jabari Smith (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/793/jabari-smith) | Auburn | 6-10 | SF/PF | Age: 18.7
3. Houston Rockets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/hou/houston-rockets)
Paolo Banchero (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432573/paolo-banchero) | Duke | 6-10 | PF/C | Age: 19.2
4. Indiana Pacers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ind/indiana-pacers)
Jaden Ivey (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433218/jaden-ivey) | Purdue | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.0
5. Sacramento Kings (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sac/sacramento-kings)
AJ Griffin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432585/aj-griffin) | Duke 6-6 | SF/PF | Age: 18.4
6. Oklahoma City Thunder (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/okc/oklahoma-city-thunder)
Jalen Duren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433621/jalen-duren) | Memphis | 6-10 | C | Age:18.2
7. New York Knicks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ny/new-york-knicks)
Johnny Davis (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432356/johnny-davis) | Wisconsin | 6-5 | PG/SG | Age:19.9
8. San Antonio Spurs (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs)
Shaedon Sharpe (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4914336/shaedon-sharpe) | Kentucky | 6-6 | SG | Age: 18.7
9. Portland Trail Blazers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/por/portland-trail-blazers)
Keegan Murray (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4594327/keegan-murray) | Iowa | 6-9 | PF/C | Age: 21.5
10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Pelicans)
TyTy Washington Jr. (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683749/tyty-washington-jr) | Kentucky | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.2
11. Washington Wizards (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/wsh/washington-wizards)
Bennedict Mathurin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683634/bennedict-mathurin) | Arizona | 6- 6 | SF | Age: 19.6
12. Memphis Grizzlies (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mem/memphis-grizzlies) (from Lakers)Dyson Daniels | G League Ignite | 6-6 | PG/SG | Age: 18.9
13. Charlotte Hornets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/cha/charlotte-hornets) (Hawks if 19-30)
Ochai Agbaji (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4397018/ochai-agbaji) | Kansas | 6-6 | SF | Age: 21.8
14. Atlanta Hawks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/atl/atlanta-hawks)
E.J. Liddell (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432821/ej-liddell) | Ohio St | 6-7 | PF | Age: 21.1
15. Houston Rockets (from Nets)
MarJon Beauchamp | G League Ignite | 6-6 | SG/SF | Age:21.3
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Clippers)
Tari Eason (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433192/tari-eason) | LSU | 6-8 | PF | Age: 20.7
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/min/minnesota-timberwolves)
Kendall Brown (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433254/kendall-brown) | Baylor | 6-8 | SF | Age: 18.7
18. San Antonio Spurs (from Raptors)
Walker Kessler (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433136/walker-kessler) | Auburn | 7-1 | C | Age: 20.5
19. Indiana Pacers (from Cavaliers)
Ousmane Dieng | NZ Breakers | 6-10 | SF/PF | Age: 18.7
20. Brooklyn Nets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/bkn/brooklyn-nets) (from 76ers)
Jean Montero | Overtime Elite | 6-2 | PG/SG | Age: 18.6
21. San Antonio Spurs (from Celtics)
Nikola Jovic | Mega Mozzart | 6-10 | SF | Age: 18.7
22. Dallas Mavericks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/dal/dallas-mavericks)
Jaden Hardy | G League Ignite | 6-4 | SG | Age: 19.6
23. Milwaukee Bucks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mil/milwaukee-bucks)
Mark Williams (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4701232/mark-williams) | Duke | 6-10 | C | Age: 20.1
24. Chicago Bulls (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/chi/chicago-bulls)
Trevor Keels (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432645/trevor-keels) | Duke | 6-5 | PG/SG | Age: 18.4
25. Denver Nuggets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/den/denver-nuggets)
Patrick Baldwin Jr. (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433246/patrick-baldwin-jr) | Milwaukee | 6-9 | SF/PF | Age: 19.2
26. Memphis Grizzlies (from Jazz)
Justin Lewis (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432239/justin-lewis) | Marquette | 6-7 | SF/PF | Age: 19.8
27. Miami Heat (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mia/miami-heat)
JD Davison (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4576085/jd-davison) | Alabama | 6-3 PG | Age: 19.3
28. Golden State Warriors (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/gs/golden-state-warriors)
Kennedy Chandler (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432646/kennedy-chandler) | Tennessee | 6-1 | PG | Age:19.4
29. Memphis Grizzlies
Jeremy Sochan (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4610139/jeremy-sochan) | Baylor | 6-9 | PF | Age: 18.7
30. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Suns)
Blake Wesley (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683935/blake-wesley) | Notre Dame | 6-5 | SG | Age: 18.9

[look_at_g_shred]

I wonder if AJ/Davis is the Spurs' guy, how much it would take to trade up to 5.

[mo7888]

This came out today on ESPN+

Jonathan Givony's NBA mock draft

1. Detroit Pistons (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/det/detroit-pistons)
Chet Holmgren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433255/chet-holmgren) | Gonzaga | 7-0 | PF | Age: 19.8
2. Orlando Magic (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/orl/orlando-magic)
Jabari Smith (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/793/jabari-smith) | Auburn | 6-10 | SF/PF | Age: 18.7
3. Houston Rockets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/hou/houston-rockets)
Paolo Banchero (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432573/paolo-banchero) | Duke | 6-10 | PF/C | Age: 19.2
4. Indiana Pacers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ind/indiana-pacers)
Jaden Ivey (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433218/jaden-ivey) | Purdue | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.0
5. Sacramento Kings (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sac/sacramento-kings)
AJ Griffin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432585/aj-griffin) | Duke 6-6 | SF/PF | Age: 18.4
6. Oklahoma City Thunder (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/okc/oklahoma-city-thunder)
Jalen Duren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433621/jalen-duren) | Memphis | 6-10 | C | Age:18.2
7. New York Knicks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ny/new-york-knicks)
Johnny Davis (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432356/johnny-davis) | Wisconsin | 6-5 | PG/SG | Age:19.9
8. San Antonio Spurs (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs)
Shaedon Sharpe (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4914336/shaedon-sharpe) | Kentucky | 6-6 | SG | Age: 18.7
9. Portland Trail Blazers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/por/portland-trail-blazers)
Keegan Murray (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4594327/keegan-murray) | Iowa | 6-9 | PF/C | Age: 21.5
10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Pelicans)
TyTy Washington Jr. (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683749/tyty-washington-jr) | Kentucky | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.2
11. Washington Wizards (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/wsh/washington-wizards)
Bennedict Mathurin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683634/bennedict-mathurin) | Arizona | 6- 6 | SF | Age: 19.6

18. San Antonio Spurs (from Raptors) Walker Kessler (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433136/walker-kessler) | Auburn | 7-1 | C | Age: 20.5
21. San Antonio Spurs (from Celtics)
Nikola Jovic | Mega Mozzart | 6-10 | SF | Age: 18.7

How low did they have Tari?

[emanueldavidginobili]

How low did they have Tari?
I'll add the rest of the 1st round, but they had him going 16th to the Thunder.

[BatManu20]

Blazers about to pass us in the lottery :td. Clearly tanking after winning their past few games.

1496569039275106312

[PhantomDashCam]

Good to see Justin Lewis climb into the first round of a mock.
He really intrigues me. 6’ 7”, 7’2” wingspan, 245 lbs. He reminds me a little of KJ tbh but with more defensive versatility.

I hope he attends the combine to get those exact measurements.

I’m not seeing star type potential but think he’ll be a rock solid contributor. Would not mind him at all with one of our later firsts.


https://youtu.be/FxSdcfFhWWM

[BatManu20]

My guy Johnny Davis 3 days ago in a big win against Michigan. He was the star of the game before Juwan Howard’s dumbass stole the show. I’ll be watching him tonight.


Vavlw1Ext5Y

[BatManu20]

One of Keegan’s best games of the season. Showed his versatility and why he’s a projected top-10 pick.


Zq-LXJPdKq0

[mystargtr34]

Man Davis uses his body well and has great foot work. Reminds me a bit of Luka the way he manoeuvres to the basket and then when he gets there if he is confronted by a big, he puts a shoulder in to them and they're out of the picture.

[mystargtr34]

This came out today on ESPN+

Jonathan Givony's NBA mock draft

1. Detroit Pistons (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/det/detroit-pistons)
Chet Holmgren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433255/chet-holmgren) | Gonzaga | 7-0 | PF | Age: 19.8
2. Orlando Magic (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/orl/orlando-magic)
Jabari Smith (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/793/jabari-smith) | Auburn | 6-10 | SF/PF | Age: 18.7
3. Houston Rockets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/hou/houston-rockets)
Paolo Banchero (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432573/paolo-banchero) | Duke | 6-10 | PF/C | Age: 19.2
4. Indiana Pacers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ind/indiana-pacers)
Jaden Ivey (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433218/jaden-ivey) | Purdue | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.0
5. Sacramento Kings (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sac/sacramento-kings)
AJ Griffin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432585/aj-griffin) | Duke 6-6 | SF/PF | Age: 18.4
6. Oklahoma City Thunder (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/okc/oklahoma-city-thunder)
Jalen Duren (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433621/jalen-duren) | Memphis | 6-10 | C | Age:18.2
7. New York Knicks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/ny/new-york-knicks)
Johnny Davis (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432356/johnny-davis) | Wisconsin | 6-5 | PG/SG | Age:19.9
8. San Antonio Spurs (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs)
Shaedon Sharpe (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4914336/shaedon-sharpe) | Kentucky | 6-6 | SG | Age: 18.7
9. Portland Trail Blazers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/por/portland-trail-blazers)
Keegan Murray (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4594327/keegan-murray) | Iowa | 6-9 | PF/C | Age: 21.5
10. Portland Trail Blazers (from Pelicans)
TyTy Washington Jr. (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683749/tyty-washington-jr) | Kentucky | 6-4 | PG/SG | Age: 20.2
11. Washington Wizards (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/wsh/washington-wizards)
Bennedict Mathurin (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683634/bennedict-mathurin) | Arizona | 6- 6 | SF | Age: 19.6
12. Memphis Grizzlies (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mem/memphis-grizzlies) (from Lakers)Dyson Daniels | G League Ignite | 6-6 | PG/SG | Age: 18.9
13. Charlotte Hornets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/cha/charlotte-hornets) (Hawks if 19-30)
Ochai Agbaji (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4397018/ochai-agbaji) | Kansas | 6-6 | SF | Age: 21.8
14. Atlanta Hawks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/atl/atlanta-hawks)
E.J. Liddell (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432821/ej-liddell) | Ohio St | 6-7 | PF | Age: 21.1
15. Houston Rockets (from Nets)
MarJon Beauchamp | G League Ignite | 6-6 | SG/SF | Age:21.3
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Clippers)
Tari Eason (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433192/tari-eason) | LSU | 6-8 | PF | Age: 20.7
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/min/minnesota-timberwolves)
Kendall Brown (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433254/kendall-brown) | Baylor | 6-8 | SF | Age: 18.7
18. San Antonio Spurs (from Raptors)
Walker Kessler (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433136/walker-kessler) | Auburn | 7-1 | C | Age: 20.5
19. Indiana Pacers (from Cavaliers)
Ousmane Dieng | NZ Breakers | 6-10 | SF/PF | Age: 18.7
20. Brooklyn Nets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/bkn/brooklyn-nets) (from 76ers)
Jean Montero | Overtime Elite | 6-2 | PG/SG | Age: 18.6
21. San Antonio Spurs (from Celtics)
Nikola Jovic | Mega Mozzart | 6-10 | SF | Age: 18.7
22. Dallas Mavericks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/dal/dallas-mavericks)
Jaden Hardy | G League Ignite | 6-4 | SG | Age: 19.6
23. Milwaukee Bucks (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mil/milwaukee-bucks)
Mark Williams (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4701232/mark-williams) | Duke | 6-10 | C | Age: 20.1
24. Chicago Bulls (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/chi/chicago-bulls)
Trevor Keels (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432645/trevor-keels) | Duke | 6-5 | PG/SG | Age: 18.4
25. Denver Nuggets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/den/denver-nuggets)
Patrick Baldwin Jr. (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433246/patrick-baldwin-jr) | Milwaukee | 6-9 | SF/PF | Age: 19.2
26. Memphis Grizzlies (from Jazz)
Justin Lewis (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432239/justin-lewis) | Marquette | 6-7 | SF/PF | Age: 19.8
27. Miami Heat (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mia/miami-heat)
JD Davison (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4576085/jd-davison) | Alabama | 6-3 PG | Age: 19.3
28. Golden State Warriors (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/gs/golden-state-warriors)
Kennedy Chandler (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4432646/kennedy-chandler) | Tennessee | 6-1 | PG | Age:19.4
29. Memphis Grizzlies
Jeremy Sochan (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4610139/jeremy-sochan) | Baylor | 6-9 | PF | Age: 18.7
30. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Suns)
Blake Wesley (http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4683935/blake-wesley) | Notre Dame | 6-5 | SG | Age: 18.9

Interesting thanks for this. I think Chet and Jabari are a lock for 1-2. I think Banchero could potentially fall as far as 5 or 6 depending on which teams have certain picks. There's a few permutations that could play out after the top 2 imo. I agree that OKC will take Duren if they end up outside of the Top 2. Pairing him with a passer like Giddey would make him a dangerous weapon as a roll man. Then he gives you that rebounding and rim protection.

I have no idea on Shaedon Sharpe's game.

[Mr. Body]

Sharpe is doing the James Wiseman "hide myself to create an aura of mystery" thing. It'll wind up getting him drafted 10 spots too high, so good for him. I don't know what he does other than play in transition.

[BatManu20]

Sharpe is doing the James Wiseman "hide myself to create an aura of mystery" thing. It'll wind up getting him drafted 10 spots too high, so good for him. I don't know what he does other than play in transition.

I mean he was the #1 ranked High School player in the nation last year for a reason, to be fair. He’s definitely got talent and some game. Prototypical size for a 2-Guard at 6’6 with a 7’0 wingspan, good athlete, above-average 3-point shooter, can create his own shot, and potential to be a good defender with his tools.

But yea I wish we could’ve seen him play some this year for KU. He technically hasn’t changed his “I’ll be back at Kentucky next year” stance, but most experts think that’s a smokescreen. I personally think he’s a lock for the top-10 based on his high school tapes alone though, and most mocks seem to agree.

[exstatic]

Sharpe is doing the James Wiseman "hide myself to create an aura of mystery" thing. It'll wind up getting him drafted 10 spots too high, so good for him. I don't know what he does other than play in transition.

Wiseman didn’t play because he probably would have caused forfeits in any further games played Something about Penny paying out of pocket for family to move to Memphis to be close to him.

[Mr. Body]

I mean he was the #1 ranked High School player in the nation last year for a reason, to be fair. He’s definitely got talent and some game. Prototypical size for a 2-Guard at 6’6 with a 7’0 wingspan, good athlete, above-average 3-point shooter, can create his own shot, and potential to be a good defender with his tools.

But yea I wish we could’ve seen him play some this year for KU. He technically hasn’t changed his “I’ll be back at Kentucky next year” stance, but most experts think that’s a smokescreen. I personally think he’s a lock for the top-10 based on his high school tapes alone though, and most mocks seem to agree.

I don't care a whole lot about high school rankings. Normally they get a considerable bump whenever they commit to Kentucky or Duke anyway -- it's a hype machine. He's just a transition athlete this time and is certainly not a good defender or good at much else. He's very smart to not actually play, as you're demonstrating, because he can be whatever people dream he is. Meanwhile, he's gone a full year without any substantive coaching or competition. Yikes. Another Wiseman.

[Mr. Body]

Wiseman didn’t play because he probably would have caused forfeits in any further games played Something about Penny paying out of pocket for family to move to Memphis to be close to him.

Maybe. It sure as hell helped him. No way he gets drafted that high if people actually understood how raw he was, not even ready for college basketball, much less pros.

[BatManu20]

Banchero continues to look unimpressive to me. 1/4 from the field for 2 pts in the first half against Virginia.

[BatManu20]

Oh wait, 4 pts now for banchero at half after the refs gifted him FT’s on what should’ve been a clear offensive foul.

AJ Griffin has struggled this half too with 3 pts on 1/7 from the field.

[emanueldavidginobili]

First game i've watched Banchero play, he's a bit lackadaisical it seems. Hopefully he doesn't turn into another Bagley. Again this is my first time watching him though.

[BatManu20]

First game i've watched Banchero play, he's a bit lackadaisical it seems. Hopefully he doesn't turn into another Bagley. Again this is my first time watching him though.

He’s a good player who clearly has talent. But this is the kind of game you’d like to see him dominate, against an unranked Virginia team that is small. He has a big size advantage against the two guys who they’ve had guard him, but you wouldn’t know it yet based on this game. He’s just been underwhelming considering the hype he came into this season with.

[CGD]

That EJ Lindell kid climbed a lot in that last Givony mock.

[Dejounte]

That EJ Lindell kid climbed a lot in that last Givony mock.

Called it

[Dejounte]

With the way the Spurs could start winning games again, I hope Banchero continues to play poorly so he drops

[emanueldavidginobili]

With the way the Spurs could start winning games again, I hope Banchero continues to play poorly so he drops
Yeah I would be down for that tbh. Theoretically speaking though if the Spurs had the 1st overall pick who would you draft?

[tonight...you]

1485094319425933315

Tari’s mom pinned tweet… She appears to be the most important person in his life.
Both show DJ a lot of love fwiw.
She wants the Spurs and Pop to pick him, should his pick come up.

[Dejounte]

Yeah I would be down for that tbh. Theoretically speaking though if the Spurs had the 1st overall pick who would you draft?

Ivey
Banchero
Chet

in that order

[Dejounte]

AJ Griffin with poor handles almost lost the ball on a crucial possession and then benched at the end of the game. This is the guy people want? Failing to see what’s appealing here other than he is a nice spot up shooter.

[BatManu20]

AJ Griffin took over down the stretch of that game with 8 straight pts in the last 3 minutes of the game. Good shit from him tbh.

[Dejounte]

AJ Griffin took over down the stretch of that game with 8 straight pts in the last 3 minutes of the game. Good shit from him tbh.

I guess taking over is taking two spot up 3s and a pull up J from inside :lmao the low bar…

[BatManu20]

Tari Eason not even starting for LSU is wild. He’s already checking in though cause their starting C just picked up 2 quick fouls. LSU has 5 team fouls in 4 minutes of play already :lol.

[BatManu20]

I guess taking over is taking two spot up 3s and a pull up J from inside :lmao the low bar…

I mean it literally won them the game… so yea, I’d say he absolutely took over in that short stretch at the end of the game.

[exstatic]

1485094319425933315

Tari’s mom pinned tweet… She appears to be the most important person in his life.
Both show DJ a lot of love fwiw.

Not a surprise, since Tari is from the Seattle area.

[Mr. Body]

Eason having no impact on the LSU-Kentuck game. Didn't even start.

[Kurik]

I guess taking over is taking two spot up 3s and a pull up J from inside :lmao the low bar…

I mean replace spot up 3s with 2s and that’s how the Spurs play at the end of most games.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

If the Spurs pick lands somewhere between 6 and 10 and Sharpe is available I wouldn't hesitate one bit. Sure, it's a huge risk, but this is what a rebuilding team should be doing. Don't rate this draft too highly at all and most of the guys after pick 4 would be typical late lottery in other drafts. Even the top 4 guys aren't covering themselves in glory lately.

I think Chet will go no.1 easily, unless he completely falls apart in the tournament. Banchero, Smith, Ivey, Davis all settle for difficult contested shots too often, which hurts their efficiency. Perhaps one or two of them will grow out of it but who knows.

[Mr. Body]

If the Spurs pick lands somewhere between 6 and 10 and Sharpe is available I wouldn't hesitate one bit. Sure, it's a huge risk, but this is what a rebuilding team should be doing.

No, that's stupid.

He reminds me of Emoni Bates, who was supposed to be this incredible top pick from his class. Instead he went to Memphis and looks entirely average or below. Imagine if Emoni Bates decided to "work out on his own"; he'd be in the top six or seven picks right now. It's fucking ridiculous.

[Ice009]

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

My favorite two SGs from the past 20 years are Manu and D-Wade, so anyone that attacks the rim with ferocity, sign me up for that player. Where is JI projected to go in the draft?

[PhantomDashCam]

My favorite two SGs from the past 20 years are Manu and D-Wade, so anyone that attacks the rim with ferocity, sign me up for that player. Where is JI projected to go in the draft?

Looking like a top 4 lock with potential to go first if certain scenarios swing his way.

[Ice009]

Looking like a top 4 lock with potential to go first if certain scenarios swing his way.

Darn :(. We need to tank then. Pretty sure the Spurs are going to try and make a playoff push.

[Mnky]

https://youtu.be/UGjF2D3EJQU

For those who don't know much about him. Shaedon was the #1 prospect for a reason. He went to Kentucky, not some small school on hype. He has a weird situation but the kid definitely would have been one of the top prospects in college if he played. He has that star attribute about him.

Elite athleticism, attacks with an attitude. Kind of reminds me of Demar attacking, he just knows how to beat people to the rim. Yes, it was high school competition. He was a high school kid as well.

Has a pretty shot that seems effortless at times. Defensive potential is there. Effort shines at times. He was clearly above his competition so it's hard to see how much he really has shown for good or bad.

Definitely intriguing. Wouldn't be mad at all with him. Had potential to be a high draft pick on HS tape alone.

[exstatic]

No, that's stupid.

He reminds me of Emoni Bates, who was supposed to be this incredible top pick from his class. Instead he went to Memphis and looks entirely average or below. Imagine if Emoni Bates decided to "work out on his own"; he'd be in the top six or seven picks right now. It's fucking ridiculous.

Being recruited to Memphis isn’t the same as being recruited to UK. That being said, I wonder if Cal told him he would be red shirted? If so, it was a bad choice for Shaedon. He’ll be 19 at the draft with no college or gleague experience.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

No, that's stupid.

He reminds me of Emoni Bates, who was supposed to be this incredible top pick from his class. Instead he went to Memphis and looks entirely average or below. Imagine if Emoni Bates decided to "work out on his own"; he'd be in the top six or seven picks right now. It's fucking ridiculous.

I don't see the comparison between the two at all, tbh. Sharpe may well bust but he has all the physical tools and basketball skills to be a star. Bates doesn't, he's slow, a terrible athlete, negative wingspan, etc.

[Mnky]

Being recruited to Memphis isn’t the same as being recruited to UK. That being said, I wonder if Cal told him he would be red shirted? If so, it was a bad choice for Shaedon. He’ll be 19 at the draft with no college or gleague experience.

He enrolled early for the 22-23 season. The plan was simply to get there and start training and preparing at a college level for the 23 year. That's still the plan according to mom.

Training at UK versus training at a high school, seems obvious which is better for him. Lots of kids are starting to early enroll at universities they committ to, to get thay extra training in. Normal for recruits but the thing about his being draft eligible is just being blown up by media pundits tbh. NBA would still have to approve it as well.

He was, for all intents and purposes, supposed to be a freshman next basketball season.

[exstatic]

He enrolled early for the 22-23 season. The plan was simply to get there and start training and preparing at a college level for the 23 year. That's still the plan according to mom.

Training at UK versus training at a high school, seems obvious which is better for him. Lots of kids are starting to early enroll at universities they committ to, to get thay extra training in. Normal for recruits but the thing about his being draft eligible is just being blown up by media pundits tbh. NBA would still have to approve it as well.

He was, for all intents and purposes, supposed to be a freshman next basketball season.

Starting your freshman year at 19 isn’t ideal. Oh, and how could the NBA not approve a kid who will be 19 on draft night, and has spent a year in college, even if he didnt play ball?

[PhantomDashCam]

The Shaedon Sharpe situation is a polarising one.

Chad Ford and Rafael Barlow discussed him on a recent podcast. Link down the bottom for those interested.

Long story short - Chad Ford is high on him based on the intel he is hearing from teams in the know. They think he would be the number #3 guy next year behind Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson. Chad’s argument came down to these guys see countless prospects in workouts/scrimmages/pre-game routine and are still genuinely wowed by what he can do.

Rafael was reticent for citing some of the reasons you’d expect, lack of game tape, the fact a lot of top prospects going into the season from HS, have underwhelmed ie. Caleb Houston, Patrick Baldwin JR., Jaden Hardy who too were thought to be lottery picks.

It’ll sure to be an interesting discussion leading into the draft.

FWIW, Chad had the Spurs taking Kendall Brown or Jalen Duran at 7 or 8. Well worth a listen.


https://youtu.be/3UuogpLse88

[Mnky]

Starting your freshman year at 19 isn’t ideal. Oh, and how could the NBA not approve a kid who will be 19 on draft night, and has spent a year in college, even if he didnt play ball?

It's normal to graduate at 18 and be 19 for freshman year. When you hear about kids being 18 -19 coming to the league, there's a reason their age is mentioned. It's much more rare. He hasn't been in college a year. He joined this semester through early enrollment. He qualified to graduate early and move on. This is becoming the norm for athletes coming out of HS. They take that early enrollment and train with the team while waiting for their first full year. It's better than wasting a semester at HS where they can't work out with staff nearly the same with UIL stipulations.

And the NBA HAS to approve his eligibility. It's a special rule for early enrollment athletes. He hasn't had a full year of college yet.

[exstatic]

It's normal to graduate at 18 and be 19 for freshman year. When you hear about kids being 18 -19 coming to the league, there's a reason their age is mentioned. It's much more rare. He hasn't been in college a year. He joined this semester through early enrollment. He qualified to graduate early and move on. This is becoming the norm for athletes coming out of HS. They take that early enrollment and train with the team while waiting for their first full year. It's better than wasting a semester at HS where they can't work out with staff nearly the same with UIL stipulations.

And the NBA HAS to approve his eligibility. It's a special rule for early enrollment athletes. He hasn't had a full year of college yet.

If you graduate HS at 18, most of the time you enter your freshman year at 18. If he stays, he will BEGIN his freshman year at 19, and be 20 by the 2023 draft. That’s not ideal for a 1 and done.

[Mr. Body]

I don't see the comparison between the two at all, tbh. Sharpe may well bust but he has all the physical tools and basketball skills to be a star. Bates doesn't, he's slow, a terrible athlete, negative wingspan, etc.

Lol, okay, genius, go ahead and pick a guy who you don't even know can play college basketball. That's brilliant.

[Mr. Body]

The Shaedon Sharpe situation is a polarising one.

Chad Ford and Rafael Barlow discussed him on a recent podcast. Link down the bottom for those interested.

Long story short - Chad Ford is high on him based on the intel he is hearing from teams in the know. They think he would be the number #3 guy next year behind Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson. Chad’s argument came down to these guys see countless prospects in workouts/scrimmages/pre-game routine and are still genuinely wowed by what he can do.

Rafael was reticent for citing some of the reasons you’d expect, lack of game tape, the fact a lot of top prospects going into the season from HS, have underwhelmed ie. Caleb Houston, Patrick Baldwin JR., Jaden Hardy who too were thought to be lottery picks.

It’ll sure to be an interesting discussion leading into the draft.

FWIW, Chad had the Spurs taking Kendall Brown or Jalen Duran at 7 or 8. Well worth a listen.


https://youtu.be/3UuogpLse88

It seems completely incompetent to judge a player solely by individual or even group workouts. The point of college, which is admittedly corrupt and less than ideal, is that you not only get to see players in a team environment against appropriate competition, you get (hopefully) strong coaching in aspects that need to be improved. One of the biggest problems of the one-and-done era, which has impacted the NBA for years now, is that players still don't really know how to be coached or improve. They just... play. This has hurt the guys coming out of Duke once Ratface switched to leaning on these players. It hurts a lot of Kentucky players. Sure, there are exceptions, but after a burst of exceptional play, they often stall out.

So not only do a lot of fans get caught up in ESPN-level hype on atheleticism, rumor, and clips on Youtube, so do some teams. When we don't even know what these guys -- the Emoni Bates types -- can actually do, you know, playing actual basketball.

[PhantomDashCam]

It seems completely incompetent to judge a player solely by individual or even group workouts. The point of college, which is admittedly corrupt and less than ideal, is that you not only get to see players in a team environment against appropriate competition, you get (hopefully) strong coaching in aspects that need to be improved. One of the biggest problems of the one-and-done era, which has impacted the NBA for years now, is that players still don't really know how to be coached or improve. They just... play. This has hurt the guys coming out of Duke once Ratface switched to leaning on these players. It hurts a lot of Kentucky players. Sure, there are exceptions, but after a burst of exceptional play, they often stall out.

So not only do a lot of fans get caught up in ESPN-level hype on atheleticism, rumor, and clips on Youtube, so do some teams. When we don't even know what these guys -- the Emoni Bates types -- can actually do, you know, playing actual basketball.

I understand the arguments you’re putting forward but this is why you put faith in the collective rather than the individual.

Have a look at the Anfernee Simons situation in Portland. Drafted in 2018, straight from H.S and is only just bearing fruit.
That was a loaded class too but on a redraft, he’s probably going top ten.

We almost did a very similar thing last year drafting Primo considering how little he played and what his role was at Alabama.

I honestly know next to nothing about Shaedon the person but understand BG_Spurs_Fan intrigue based on seemingly the calibre of talent we may select from.

[exstatic]

It seems completely incompetent to judge a player solely by individual or even group workouts. The point of college, which is admittedly corrupt and less than ideal, is that you not only get to see players in a team environment against appropriate competition, you get (hopefully) strong coaching in aspects that need to be improved. One of the biggest problems of the one-and-done era, which has impacted the NBA for years now, is that players still don't really know how to be coached or improve. They just... play. This has hurt the guys coming out of Duke once Ratface switched to leaning on these players. It hurts a lot of Kentucky players. Sure, there are exceptions, but after a burst of exceptional play, they often stall out.

So not only do a lot of fans get caught up in ESPN-level hype on atheleticism, rumor, and clips on Youtube, so do some teams. When we don't even know what these guys -- the Emoni Bates types -- can actually do, you know, playing actual basketball.

Bates problem is that he’s NOT supremely athletic. Being so doesn’t guarantee anything, but it should allow you to survive at the next level and develop if you’re motivated. Not being so, you need a top level gift like shooting or court vision and distribution. Bates probably relied on size in HS. Even Kyle Anderson, gifted with great court vision, struggled mightily his freshman year. Bates may just need another year at Memphis.

[PhantomDashCam]

This may very well be the Spurs pick…If you’re keeping all three firsts and going for upside (and a swing for the fences mentality with that lotto pick), John Butler may be the guy.

1465826318189314054

- Spurs were considering drafting Jaden McDaniels in 2020
- They obviously liked Kai Jones if trade reports were to be believed at the deadline and initial pre-draft scouting process

FSU guys can play.
Great rundown in this article…

https://heatcheckcbb.com/shaws-sleepers-florida-states-john-butler-is-another-frontcourt-seminole-with-nba-upside/


…“The future is exceptionally bright for him,” Hamilton said. “His skill set is great. He is still adjusting, but he has a great attitude, and he wants to be good. Learning a different system, he has to bring the ball up the floor, make decisions on the fly with what we need to get into. He has made significant progress so far and continues to get better.”…

[Mr. Body]

Bates problem is that he’s NOT supremely athletic. Being so doesn’t guarantee anything, but it should allow you to survive at the next level and develop if you’re motivated. Not being so, you need a top level gift like shooting or court vision and distribution. Bates probably relied on size in HS. Even Kyle Anderson, gifted with great court vision, struggled mightily his freshman year. Bates may just need another year at Memphis.

Who gives a fuck about athleticism when you can't play? I feel like you're dodging the point. Like Barkley said, deer can run and jump, but can they play basketball? So the fuck what if Sharpe can race the floor and dunk once in a while? That's not basketball.

[BackHome]

Yeah that is why I am really shy of drafting anyone who can’t shoot or has terrible handles at this point of development if they don’t have these skills need to pass on them. I not risk averse there are a couple players that fit this but they would be on my second round list.

[Russ]

https://youtu.be/UGjF2D3EJQU

For those who don't know much about him. Shaedon was the #1 prospect for a reason. He went to Kentucky, not some small school on hype. He has a weird situation but the kid definitely would have been one of the top prospects in college if he played. He has that star attribute about him.

Elite athleticism, attacks with an attitude. Kind of reminds me of Demar attacking, he just knows how to beat people to the rim. Yes, it was high school competition. He was a high school kid as well.

Has a pretty shot that seems effortless at times. Defensive potential is there. Effort shines at times. He was clearly above his competition so it's hard to see how much he really has shown for good or bad.

Definitely intriguing. Wouldn't be mad at all with him. Had potential to be a high draft pick on HS tape alone.

:toast

Forget the idea that this is a high school tape. The things he is doing have nothing to do with who's across from him.

He moves like he's got another gear, very athletic but very efficient. Looks like he's a shooter, too.

Doesn't drive to the basket enough, what's with that? And what the hell is going on with him and Kentucky. But high-end potential.

Quite possibly a guy to consider after the big three.

[Truckules]

Malaki Branham is someone who I could see shoot up into the 20s and be a good choice for one of the trade picks. He's a three-level scorer with good size (6'5") and wingspan (6'11"). He had a great game against Indiana 3 nights ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_yxSFs5BCs

[ZeusWillJudge]

:toast

Forget the idea that this is a high school tape. The things he is doing have nothing to do with who's across from him.

He moves like he's got another gear, very athletic but very efficient. Looks like he's a shooter, too.

Doesn't drive to the basket enough, what's with that? And what the hell is going on with him and Kentucky. But high-end potential.

Quite possibly a guy to consider after the big three.


Calipari said Sharpe lacked conditioning to jump into college ball without the same prep time as the other players. I don't know if that's the real reason or not - maybe he was hoping to keep him around for next year.

Teams go after young players for the same reason Hollywood chases high-budget films - it's a swing for the fence mentality. If a player is going to be a first option, he usually shows it in late high school or his first year of college. Nobody wants to draft a "solid" guy in the lottery - especially the early lottery.

Sharpe is more than an athlete. He knows how to play. But pull up some video of him shooting 3's, and he gets about 2 rotations on the way to the hole. He reminds me of Trevor Ariza. He's got great hand-eye to make as many as he does, but he'd have to improve that stroke to be a real three level scorer in the modern NBA. It's not out of the question, with his natural talent.

But since the only thing we have is high school video, go back and look at LeBron's HS film, and the incredible passing game he already had. I haven't seen any flashes of that in Sharpe's game yet. Like I said, he reminds me of Trevor Ariza in high school. A shorter Trevor Ariza. To me, that's a thin swing for the fence. If the Spurs wind up drafting around 10 (and I still think they will), that might be enough since even if he's not a franchise, he'll still be a good player to have.

[Mnky]

:toast

Forget the idea that this is a high school tape. The things he is doing have nothing to do with who's across from him.

He moves like he's got another gear, very athletic but very efficient. Looks like he's a shooter, too.

Doesn't drive to the basket enough, what's with that? And what the hell is going on with him and Kentucky. But high-end potential.

Quite possibly a guy to consider after the big three.

He said he molds his game after Beal and Booker. He looks to shake them and get his shot off. That's his preference. Has 3 pt range and is a good shooter.
Definitely has that star aspect to him. If he does come out next year, we may never get close to him. This year might be the only year we could if he came out early but a lot has to happen for that situation. Him and mom are still saying he's staying.

He just graduated a semester early from high school and did early enrollment so he could train at UK instead of his high school and learn the program. He practices with the team now so he's getting way better experience there than he would playing pickup games locally. He's facing off with some of the best prospects on a regular basis, and from reports, people are impressed with what they've seen. If he wants to try to go No.1-3, he might stay. If he's good with going in the lottery, I think his potential alone get him drafted without a college year.

[ace3g]

https://twitter.com/Mike_Schmitz/status/1497063630814138368

https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1497045534023979008

[rankingtear]

Malaki Branham is someone who I could see shoot up into the 20s and be a good choice for one of the trade picks. He's a three-level scorer with good size (6'5") and wingspan (6'11"). He had a great game against Indiana 3 nights ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_yxSFs5BCs

Looks good got that Beal no neck frame, a little light for his playstyle at 180 if he's anywhere close to 200 I think he is guaranteed top 20.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/yk2BHqrc44U

that turnaround J is a thing of beauty. He uses it to win this game. EJ with our later frps would be great

[John B]

https://twitter.com/Mike_Schmitz/status/1497063630814138368

https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1497045534023979008

It’s crazy how this kid will just get better. I think Chet and Ivey will be top 1 and 2. Both are exciting players and can’t go wrong either way.

Tank for Chet!

[mo7888]

It’s crazy how this kid will just get better. I think Chet and Ivey will be top 1 and 2. Both are exciting players and can’t go wrong either way.

Tank for Chet!

I had Jabari as my #1 early in the season but now that I've had a chance to watch games and look closer thats changed for me. Chet is my clear #1 choice (even though there is risk from a physical standpoint). Ivey I've got at 2 or 3 along with Jabar and ive got Banchero at 4...

If we don't a lucky bounce the guys I like in the top 10 that could be available at our spot are Keegan, Griffin, and then Ochai, Sharpe.

[mo7888]

https://youtu.be/yk2BHqrc44U

that turnaround J is a thing of beauty. He uses it to win this game. EJ with our later frps would be great

I love this guy's game....I'd definitely want him with a mid 1st pick if we don't get a 4 with our top pick.

[duncan2150]

https://youtu.be/yk2BHqrc44U

that turnaround J is a thing of beauty. He uses it to win this game. EJ with our later frps would be great

Liddel is a baller, my concerns with him were about the size and the pairing with Johnson. Still have some questions about him and KJ in a starting 5 but imo with his strenght he can compensates the lack of height.

What do you think about the lack of size ? I like the fact that he's a very good shotblocker this year and that he grabs 2.4 ORB of his 7.5 total ( not that great number with his 32 mpg tough).

[Mr. Body]

:toast

Forget the idea that this is a high school tape. The things he is doing have nothing to do with who's across from him.

He moves like he's got another gear, very athletic but very efficient. Looks like he's a shooter, too.

Doesn't drive to the basket enough, what's with that? And what the hell is going on with him and Kentucky. But high-end potential.

Quite possibly a guy to consider after the big three.

I wonder when people will realize just driving to the hoop isn't basketball.

[Mr. Body]

I have Holmgren first and Jabari Smith second. I like what I see from Smith a good deal. Ivey is third. I haven't seen Banchero play because I hate Duke. After, there's a big drop, maybe even a very big drop.

[mo7888]

I have Holmgren first and Jabari Smith second. I like what I see from Smith a good deal. Ivey is third. I haven't seen Banchero play because I hate Duke. After, there's a big drop, maybe even a very big drop.

I agree with that..

[PhantomDashCam]

https://youtu.be/yk2BHqrc44U

that turnaround J is a thing of beauty. He uses it to win this game. EJ with our later frps would be great

FWIW, Jeremy Woo from S.I just released his latest big board and he has put Liddell at 13 (up from 35 previously). Would be surprised if he went that high but it appears that his profile has definitely risen in the last couple of months…

[Rito3d30]

Del

[BatManu20]

Spurs with another bad win tonight for the tank, while the Pacers, Knicks, and Wizards all lose. We’re going to be out of the lottery completely at this rate while other teams are clearly tanking.

[PhantomDashCam]

Spurs with another bad win tonight for the tank, while the Pacers, Knicks, and Wizards all lose. We’re going to be out of the lottery completely at this rate while other teams are clearly tanking.

I think the Spurs feel pretty comfortable picking late lottery, mid-first considering how the rest of the draft looks.

I honestly feel the pressure is picking top 3.

I feel Chet is the number #1 too like some posters here but do you want to be the team that passes up the next Ja/Westbrook?
How about passing over Jabari’s ridiculous shot-making potential to take what may very well be the safest option in the draft in Paolo?

If the picks hold, love the ability to add a project, an international talent and a rotation guy all in the one draft.

Of course, if the Spurs feel strongly enough about a prospect at the top, they may feel they have the means to get a deal done…

[BackHome]

Agree about pressure with top 3 picks but the sweet spot is 3 to 8 after that its a big drop off in talent it's not looking good. It's nice to win but this team is not going anywhere unless we get better talent and that comes drafting in the top 8 at a minimum.

I am guessing if we do move up to pick 11 or 12 that will get us a role player and will probably trade Poodle for picks and to do a proper rebuild aka Tank for 2023 which people say will be a better draft.

[BatManu20]

Agree about pressure with top 3 picks but the sweet spot is 3 to 8 after that its a big drop off in talent it's not looking good. It's nice to win but this team is not going anywhere unless we get better talent and that comes drafting in the top 8 at a minimum.

I am guessing if we do move up to pick 11 or 12 that will get us a role player and will probably trade Poodle for picks and to do a proper rebuild aka Tank for 2023 which people say will be a better draft.

Dejounte’s too good to tank. He raises the floor of this team to a level that we’re simply not bad enough to warrant a top-5 pick, or prob even a top-10 one. And he’ll likely be even better next year as he ages.

Spurs are in a weird position right now with DJ who turns 26 this summer. He’ll be entering his prime next season while the rest of our team is really young and more in a full rebuilding stage. Will be interesting to see what the Spurs do the next couple seasons. I think they trade Poeltl as I don’t see him re-signing here unless we take a major step next season, which is unlikely.

Spurs are kind of in one of the worst positions you can be in: NBA purgatory. We’re not bad enough to warrant a top-5 pick for a potential franchise player, but not good enough to contend for anything other than maybe a 1st Round playoff slot. And the only way to build with a small market team like ours is through the draft, which we’re not bad enough to do — and we’re too proud to tank. Luckily we have Dejounte to build around, which is great, but he ain’t enough. We need a legit #1 option and I don’t think we find it in time before DJ’s prime is wasted. Hopefully they surprise us with a trade or something, but I’m not holding my breath.

[BackHome]

If Pop trades Poodle for picks and we use one of our 3 first rounders on a center ie; Mark Williams, Walker Kessler. I could see it playing out that the new kids will get the G League treatment and will sign some scrub center for one year and in doing that we guarantee a top 4 pick.

[exstatic]

Spurs with another bad win tonight for the tank, while the Pacers, Knicks, and Wizards all lose. We’re going to be out of the lottery completely at this rate while other teams are clearly tanking.

You need to get comfortable with SA in the play in, at least, and maybe the playoffs. Portland is the #10 team in the play in, and they are overtly tanking, holding out both Nurk and Dame. We’re virtually tied with them, and play them 3 more times. We have a bunch of other winnable games, too. LA flat sucks, and we play them one more time. They’re kind of in a free fall, so we might pass them for #9. We’re only 6 games behind the Clippers for #8, 5 in the loss column.

[bluebellmaniac]

You need to get comfortable with SA in the play in, at least, and maybe the playoffs. Portland is the #10 team in the play in, and they are overtly tanking, holding out both Nurk and Dame. We’re virtually tied with them, and play them 3 more times. We have a bunch of other winnable games, too. LA flat sucks, and we play them one more time. They’re kind of in a free fall, so we might pass them for #9. We’re only 6 games behind the Clippers for #8, 5 in the loss column.

Ugh...

[XDT76]

You need to get comfortable with SA in the play in, at least, and maybe the playoffs. Portland is the #10 team in the play in, and they are overtly tanking, holding out both Nurk and Dame. We’re virtually tied with them, and play them 3 more times. We have a bunch of other winnable games, too. LA flat sucks, and we play them one more time. They’re kind of in a free fall, so we might pass them for #9. We’re only 6 games behind the Clippers for #8, 5 in the loss column.

If we make the play-in hope that the Lakers is out.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Portland will tank their way out of the 10 seed but the biggest Spurs opponent will be New Orleans, who have an easy remaining schedule. The two games against each other will be very important, hopefully the Spurs can manage to at least split them and get the head to head tiebreaker. Lakers are there for the taking in the play in. A win against them, even if the Spurs fail to make the playoffs after that, would be so satisfying.

[Trueblood]

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.

Tari is slated to go in the early 20s and Keegan right around our FRP. Seems to me if we really wanted to bulk up the forward position we could go for both and see which one pans out. PF is our weakest position so it almost makes sense to grab two and see if one of them is the next diamond in the rough.

[Russ]

Portland will tank their way out of the 10 seed but the biggest Spurs opponent will be New Orleans, who have an easy remaining schedule. The two games against each other will be very important, hopefully the Spurs can manage to at least split them and get the head to head tiebreaker. Lakers are there for the taking in the play in. A win against them, even if the Spurs fail to make the playoffs after that, would be so satisfying.

The sweet spot might be the 10 seed play-in spot.

Highly unlikely you get to the playoffs but it would be a lot of fun games if you somehow do. If not, you probably still get a decent lottery pick. It's a win-win.

If you don't make the playoffs from the 10 seed you probably still get the 9th or 10th worst record in the league.

If you have the 9th worst record, your odds of getting a top three pick (a top tier in my mind) is 14.5%.

If you tank as badly as possible (at this point) you might get the 6th worst record -- your chance of a top three pick would be 27.6%.

Not great odds in either case. (Even if you have the worst record in the entire league you still only have a 40.1% chance of a top three pick.)

For perspective, in 1997 the Spurs had a 21.4% chance of getting the #1 pick (Tim Duncan) and Boston had a 36.3% chance.

If you compare 1997 to this year, the Spurs' chances of getting Duncan were about at the mid-point between the Spurs tanking this year or not (and getting a top three pick).

Let the chips fall where they may.

[Trueblood]

Dejounte’s too good to tank. He raises the floor of this team to a level that we’re simply not bad enough to warrant a top-5 pick, or prob even a top-10 one. And he’ll likely be even better next year as he ages.

Spurs are in a weird position right now with DJ who turns 26 this summer. He’ll be entering his prime next season while the rest of our team is really young and more in a full rebuilding stage. Will be interesting to see what the Spurs do the next couple seasons. I think they trade Poeltl as I don’t see him re-signing here unless we take a major step next season, which is unlikely.

Spurs are kind of in one of the worst positions you can be in: NBA purgatory. We’re not bad enough to warrant a top-5 pick for a potential franchise player, but not good enough to contend for anything other than maybe a 1st Round playoff slot. And the only way to build with a small market team like ours is through the draft, which we’re not bad enough to do — and we’re too proud to tank. Luckily we have Dejounte to build around, which is great, but he ain’t enough. We need a legit #1 option and I don’t think we find it in time before DJ’s prime is wasted. Hopefully they surprise us with a trade or something, but I’m not holding my breath.

I agree with almost everything you said here man. I think one notable exception you left out was the possibility of trading Murray also. The truth is Johnson Vassel and Primo are all talented but not really number one option guys. Murray is a great player and when you factor in where he was drafted and his current salary he looks even better, but I don't think he ever becomes that superstar that attracts other superstars.
We do need to build through the draft as we've learned we can't bank on FA. So if it's looking like we are going to waste Murray and Potels prime years it makes sense to trade them when their value is highest.
Murray is now an allstar on a reasonable contract that set the record for triple doubles in franchise history. Potel has become a much more efficient scorer and an offensive rebound machine on a good contract. If the Spurs don't believe that they can win a championship with a Murray/Potel/ random allstar we trade for or miraculously comes through free agency, then the obvious choice is to move them.
I think for Murray we could either use him to move up in this draft if there is someone we like or trade him for a couple future firsts (as you mentioned 2023 is a much more talented draft class). A prime trade partner here could be the Knicks because they NEED a pg, they have their future picks and I don't think Murray would improve them so much that it would devalue the picks. Last year was a flash in the pan for them but it was enough to give them a sense of false hope about their future.
We could trade Potel for a 2023 first and a young prospect but we might have to take on salary. In the end it gives us the added bonus of truly embracing the tank.
Also I just wanted to add that a lot of talent can come out of the late lottery. Nephew was a late lottery pick and there are some other great examples. We are one of the best drafting teams in the league. We could turn a late lottery pick into a franchise player.

[Dejounte]

There’s a 2% chance any of the projected top 3 players get to even Murray’s current level. The thought of trading Murray at this point is just insanity and flat out doesn’t make sense. The team as it stands has a possibility of being a lottery team again next year, so there’s not even that excuse.

[XDT76]

If we think that Murray is not worth the keep and trade him to tank it is likely we end up in the cycle of forever tanking and trading players. The players nowadays are mostly one and done, you cannot find a DRob or Timmy in the draft. They will all need time to be at very good level.

[BackHome]

If we make the play-in hope that the Lakers is out.

Davis injury is pretty bad it has been upgraded to a sprained mid foot which will require him to be evaluated in 4 weeks so it's probably anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks before he steps back on the floor

[Seventyniner]

Davis injury is pretty bad it has been upgraded to a sprained mid foot which will require him to be evaluated in 4 weeks so it's probably anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks before he steps back on the floor

The play-in games are only about 7.5 weeks away so that means there's a decent chance he's not back in time for those either. The Lakers will have a lot of trouble making the playoffs if AD misses everything up to and including the play-in.

[BatManu20]

Raptors getting blown out by the shitty Hawks. They’re about to lose 4 of their last 5 games, 3 of which will be by 30+ pts if this holds. Playing their worst basketball of the season, and they have one of the toughest schedules remaining in the league.

They’re going to tank if this keeps up. That pick is looking like it might not convey.

[exstatic]

Raptors getting blown out by the shitty Hawks. They’re about to lose 4 of their last 5 games, 3 of which will be by 30+ pts if this holds. Playing their worst basketball of the season, and they have one of the toughest schedules remaining in the league.

They’re going to tank if this keeps up. That pick is looking like it might not convey.

The curse of Thad.

[slick'81]

Raptors getting blown out by the shitty Hawks. They’re about to lose 4 of their last 5 games, 3 of which will be by 30+ pts if this holds. Playing their worst basketball of the season, and they have one of the toughest schedules remaining in the league.

They’re going to tank if this keeps up. That pick is looking like it might not convey.

tor duped sa again

[Atl Spur]

Pop out here throwing games������

[Atl Spur]

The curse of Thad.

It would just hopefully convey 2023……..no biggie.

[exstatic]

Raptors getting blown out by the shitty Hawks. They’re about to lose 4 of their last 5 games, 3 of which will be by 30+ pts if this holds. Playing their worst basketball of the season, and they have one of the toughest schedules remaining in the league.

They’re going to tank if this keeps up. That pick is looking like it might not convey.

They’re still 7th. Didn’t even drop a spot. They would have to really collapse to not be 7 or 8.

How you liking that non Poeltl trade now, Masai?

[BackHome]

I think they will drop to the 8th once the Nets get everyone back healthy they will probably go on a tear - But I don't see them falling any further then that as I don't expect the Hornets to beat them out for the 8th spot

[XDT76]

It would just hopefully convey 2023……..no biggie.

If it doesn't convey this year its seems harder next year.

[exstatic]

If it doesn't convey this year its seems harder next year.

Why? It’s one position less protected next year. Only 1-13.

[XDT76]

Why? It’s one position less protected next year. Only 1-13.
Nets, Hawks, Hornets all are expected to be better next year. It will be tougher for Raps to get into playoff next year.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Nets, Hawks, Hornets all are expected to be better next year. It will be tougher for Raps to get into playoff next year.

The Hawks and Hornets were expected to be better this year as well.

[slick'81]

Nets, Hawks, Hornets all are expected to be better next year. It will be tougher for Raps to get into playoff next year.


truth is nobody knows where the raps will be year from now. Spurs need that pick to convey this season

[exstatic]

truth is nobody knows where the raps will be year from now. Spurs need that pick to convey this season

It’s still quiet likely to. Projects fivethirty eight has them at 76%.

[BackHome]

Tankathon has a new mock which has us passing on Johnny Davis and selecting the following picks for us:

Pick 7 - Keegan Murray - 6’8 PF
Pick 18 - Walker Kessler - 7’1 C
Pick 19 - Nikola Jovic - 6’10 SF/PF
Pick 42 - Jaime Jaquez - 6’ 7 SG/SF

Also has Tari Eason going number 10 to Portland not bad for a guy who was a second round pick on mocks a few months ago. Man Patrick Baldwin has dropped to 24th pick I wonder if he is going to stay in draft?

[PhantomDashCam]

I expect Patrick Baldwin to be treated similarly to Ziaire Williams last year. 6' 9" + Wings with all-around skills (and shooting that belies their numbers) are some of the most sought after commodities in the league.

At this current point in process, the guys I'm looking at and thinking they would be heavily on Spurs radar, (taking into account Spurs history of culture, character, upside and probable drafting position of 10 - 25):

G - Blake Wesley, Dyson Daniels, Ben Mathurin

W - Jeremy Sochan, Nikola Jovic, Ousmaine Dieng, Tari Eason, Patrick Baldwin Jr.

Look like strict 4s - Keegan Murray, Justin Lewis

C - Jalen Duren, Ismael Kamegate

[BatManu20]

Tankathon has a new mock which has us passing on Johnny Davis and selecting the following picks for us:

Pick 7 - Keegan Murray - 6’8 PF
Pick 18 - Walker Kessler - 7’1 C
Pick 19 - Nikola Jovic - 6’10 SF/PF
Pick 42 - Jaime Jaquez - 6’ 7 SG/SF

Also has Tari Eason going number 10 to Portland not bad for a guy who was a second round pick on mocks a few months ago. Man Patrick Baldwin has dropped to 24th pick I wonder if he is going to stay in draft?

Pretty confident we won’t be selecting that high sadly. Spurs are going to win more games. They’re playing their best ball of the season. I expect us to hunt for that play-in and end up selecting outside of the top-10.

[BackHome]

Your probably right which I think if that is the case we pick Ben Mathurin or Tari Eason as long as we don't draft Baldwin Jr. I am cool with who ever we pick

[K...]

Pretty confident we won’t be selecting that high sadly. Spurs are going to win more games. They’re playing their best ball of the season. I expect us to hunt for that play-in and end up selecting outside of the top-10.

how many times have you posted this? please give it a break and wait a few years to declare the team a treadmill causality. perhaps wait until after the lottery to bitch about games won they could have lost.

[BatManu20]

how many times have you posted this? please give it a break and wait a few years to declare the team a treadmill causality. perhaps wait until after the lottery to bitch about games won they could have lost.

How is this even bitching..? :lol I literally just shared my opinion without complaint. FOH

[BatManu20]

Your probably right which I think if that is the case we pick Ben Mathurin or Tari Eason as long as we don't draft Baldwin Jr. I am cool with who ever we pick

I like Tari out of those two, though Mathurin would be a solid consolation prize. Wouldn’t mind packaging our first two picks to move up a couple slots either of a guy we like is still sitting there and someone’s willing to move down.

[Mr. Body]

I expect Patrick Baldwin to be treated similarly to Ziaire Williams last year. 6' 9" + Wings with all-around skills (and shooting that belies their numbers) are some of the most sought after commodities in the league.

At this current point in process, the guys I'm looking at and thinking they would be heavily on Spurs radar, (taking into account Spurs history of culture, character, upside and probable drafting position of 10 - 25):

G - Blake Wesley, Dyson Daniels, Ben Mathurin

W - Jeremy Sochan, Nikola Jovic, Ousmaine Dieng, Tari Eason, Patrick Baldwin Jr.

Look like strict 4s - Keegan Murray, Justin Lewis

C - Jalen Duren, Ismael Kamegate

Really intrigued by Jeremy Sochan. I feel like he's going to rise a lot.

[BatManu20]

Really intrigued by Jeremy Sochan. I feel like he's going to rise a lot.

He’s trending up for sure. Versatile player who fits a position of need.

1498425480269086722

[PhantomDashCam]

I’m going to start spruiking Blake Wesley.

6”5’ G with reported wingspan just under 7 ft. He’s only 18 btw. Think this kid is the real deal.


https://youtu.be/_C3vlowaFaw

If the growth plates are still open, look out…

[The Truth #6]

He’s trending up for sure. Versatile player who fits a position of need.

1498425480269086722

Nice. Definitely feels like a Spurs type player, and his theoretical skill set is exactly what we need.

[Atl Spur]

Nice. Definitely feels like a Spurs type player, and his theoretical skill set is exactly what we need.

A big sf…yes please

[Atl Spur]

Nice. Definitely feels like a Spurs type player, and his theoretical skill set is exactly what we need.

A big sf…yes please

[Mr. Body]

I’m going to start spruiking Blake Wesley.

6”5’ G with reported wingspan just under 7 ft. He’s only 18 btw. Think this kid is the real deal.


https://youtu.be/_C3vlowaFaw

If the growth plates are still open, look out…

Blake Wesley feels a bit like a discount Ivey at this point. Not a bad thing.

[bluebellmaniac]

Nice. Definitely feels like a Spurs type player, and his theoretical skill set is exactly what we need.

Would you pick him over Nikola Jovic?

[The Truth #6]

Would you pick him over Nikola Jovic?

I’ll be honest, I barely know either. Jovic seems to have a wide variance in his draft ranking. Sochan feels like a player who is rising, which gets my interest. After the top 4, there will probably be a lot of movement. And someone in the top 4 will probably fall out of it. Seems to happen every year.

[John B]

I think if Spurs get outside of top 4, that they should consider trading a player(s) and pick(s) to get Chet or Ivey, both to me can move the needle. If it means Murray + FRP, then be it. And build from either Chet or Ivey. As much as I want Dejounte, I think he’s a Robin. It’s not a popular take, but that’s just my take.

[The Truth #6]

Chet might be a Robin, too.

[Mr. Body]

Yeah, I absolutely don't see Holmgren as an alpha scorer. Definitely not now, maybe not ever. He's more of a glue guy who can potentially be a great 5 or a very nice 4. Don't see a volume scorer or a clutch scorer at this time.

[John B]

^neither was Timmy at 19. People might be forgetting Chet is just 19 doing advanced skills and at his size.

[BatManu20]

Spurs aren’t trading Dejounte bro :lol

[BackHome]

Murray just needs to have a sprained knee or ankle or back and sit and cheer us on to a top 4 pick who will be his wingman for his career in SA.

[Chinook]

Spurs aren’t trading Dejounte bro :lol

They weren't going to trade him this year, and that ended up being a wise decision. I doubt they'd trade him next year either, but his accolades means there's a good chance they'll get an offer more inline with the value they place on him. That wasn't the case before this year

[Atl Spur]

They weren't going to trade him this year, and that ended up being a wise decision. I doubt they'd trade him next year either, but his accolades means there's a good chance they'll get an offer more inline with the value they place on him. That wasn't the case before this year

I agree.

[Seventyniner]

Imagine getting a better haul for Murray than for Number Two.

[Rito3d30]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIp9-1Rp33c

These two are special
Davis gives off a little Brandon Roy vibe to me

[couchman]

Davis is unspectacular but I think his game will translate really well to the NBA.
He won’t throw down huge dunks or droop 7 threes but at the end of the game you’ll look up and see 15-25 points regularly with a ton of midrange shots, opportunistic drives, and a three pointer or so.
The narratives around midrange game are being exposed.
Being great in the midrange is an advantage right now in a league where everyone gives away midrange shots with ease.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Q-25Ytv8fU

Only a highlight video but there is some good content here.

John Butler (FSU) and Blake Wesley (ND) both having solid games.

Some nice Butler moments at 7:33 - 7:57 mark. Shows the drive with the left, the quick tip using his length, the defense on weak-side to get the block and then the spot up 3 in transition.

Be very surprised if some Spurs peoples didn't attend this game...

[Mnky]

Patrick Baldwin shot getting so bad was not expected. I've read he's been playing through an injury, but his offense, which was his biggest selling point, has really taken a nose dive. Maybe that let's us get him with one of our later 1st round picks. Spurs can get his shot right. With his size and abilities, he could definitely be a difference maker once he finds his shot again. I'd love to get him at a discount pick. The intangibles are still there.

[BackHome]

The kid draft mocks have him falling so fast that he has fallen to second round - Unless he gets a wink wink promise to get picked in first round he should definitely stay in college for another year

[BatManu20]

My guy Jabari been hoopin’ lately. He or Chet will go first. Think he gets the nod.

1499242675740069892

1499243478123003904

[The Truth #6]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Q-25Ytv8fU

Only a highlight video but there is some good content here.

John Butler (FSU) and Blake Wesley (ND) both having solid games.

Some nice Butler moments at 7:33 - 7:57 mark. Shows the drive with the left, the quick tip using his length, the defense on weak-side to get the block and then the spot up 3 in transition.

Be very surprised if some Spurs peoples didn't attend this game...

John Butler is an interesting player to keep following. Good find. FSU players typically play defense which is a good starting point. Definitely a candidate for one of our later FRP’s, if we keep it. I think this is where the draft will be crucial, in finding the gems because after the top 4 there is a wide variance at this point from what I can tell.

[PhantomDashCam]

John Butler is an interesting player to keep following. Good find. FSU players typically play defense which is a good starting point. Definitely a candidate for one of our later FRP’s, if we keep it. I think this is where the draft will be crucial, in finding the gems because after the top 4 there is a wide variance at this point from what I can tell.

Agree completely. I expect 5 - 20+ will vary wildly from mock to mock. I hope the Spurs keep swinging for the fences like they have with Primo.

[mystargtr34]

There seems to be a lot of good big wings that’ll be available in the 5-12 range. That has to be what the Spurs are looking for, preferably one 6’7 or above who can play the 4 spot next to Jakob and Keldon. Anything can happen but I am assuming Jabari, Chet, Ivey, Banchero will be the top 4 taken. After that you have the following 3/4s;

Keegan Murray
AJ Griffin
Shaedon Sharpe
Ben Mathurin
Tari Eason
Marjon Beauchamp
Kendall Brown
Jeremy Sochan

Keegan Murray is my preference followed by AJ Griffin.

[mystargtr34]

Some additional thoughts I have. I think the Spurs would take Keegan Murray above AJ Griffin.

The Spurs are 26th in the league in defensive rebounding % this season. A big reason why is because of Keldon and McDermott at the 3/4 spots, one is a average to below-average rebounder (Keldon) and the other is a terrible rebounder (Doug).

I am not sure AJ Griffin can play much 4 spot in the NBA as a starter. I think he’s more of an out and out 3 like Keldon, if he plays 4 in the NBA he’ll be undersized, again like Keldon. Griffin seems to have a poor rebounding rate in college and looking at him physically he has a really long neck which means his standing reach won’t be that great for his height, which is already undersized for a 4. It partly explains the below averaging rebounding imo. Will be interesting to see his combine measurements. Rebounding is one of things that translates the most to the NBA. Keldon also was a so-so rebounder in college and that’s been the case in the NBA. I think Griffin has a much higher ceiling than Keldon but I can’t see the Spurs drafting Griffin and playing him alongside Keldon.

The Spurs really need someone can play the 4 without the team suffering rebounding wise and defensively. They also need the 4 to be a guy who can stretch the floor and be able to play some 3. Keegan Murray is perfect imo. He could even play some small ball 5 in short bursts.

[rankingtear]

Some additional thoughts I have. I think the Spurs would take Keegan Murray above AJ Griffin.

The Spurs are 26th in the league in defensive rebounding % this season. A big reason why is because of Keldon and McDermott at the 3/4 spots, one is a average to below-average rebounder (Keldon) and the other is a terrible rebounder (Doug).

I am not sure AJ Griffin can play much 4 spot in the NBA as a starter. I think he’s more of an out and out 3 like Keldon, if he plays 4 in the NBA he’ll be undersized, again like Keldon. Griffin seems to have a poor rebounding rate in college and looking at him physically he has a really long neck which means his standing reach won’t be that great for his height, which is already undersized for a 4. It partly explains the below averaging rebounding imo. Will be interesting to see his combine measurements. Rebounding is one of things that translates the most to the NBA. Keldon also was a so-so rebounder in college and that’s been the case in the NBA. I think Griffin has a much higher ceiling than Keldon but I can’t see the Spurs drafting Griffin and playing him alongside Keldon.

The Spurs really need someone can play the 4 without the team suffering rebounding wise and defensively. They also need the 4 to be a guy who can stretch the floor and be able to play some 3. Keegan Murray is perfect imo. He could even play some small ball 5 in short bursts.

I think the priority is a switch 1-4 lineup more than getting bigger. That is the way they are playing defensively. Of course getting that 4 guy that can switch to guards solves everything and I don't think that is Keegan, Smith is that guy with some lottery luck. Griffin and KJ is closer. Doug is an exceptionally poor rebounder getting an average rebounder at the 3 can easily solve our rebounding woes.

Wright like these late growth spurt guys though, Keegan is more late weight spurt guy. Is that a thing i don't know, but maybe he categorize him as a late bloomer and justifies taking a near 22 year old. AJ is just such a better prospect that combination of skills + youth is always a good indication of success plus being big for his position at 220. Prioritizing switchability over rim protection/rebounding and perimeter skills over inside scoring makes you a more deadly playoff team.

[Mnky]

My guy Jabari been hoopin’ lately. He or Chet will go first. Think he gets the nod.

1499242675740069892

1499243478123003904

Love this kids game. Was hoping the spurs would have a shot at him, but he seems to be playing too good for that.

[bluebellmaniac]

Love this kids game. Was hoping the spurs would have a shot at him, but he seems to be playing too good for that.

It's all about the bounce of the ping pong balls.

[spurspl]

He’s trending up for sure. Versatile player who fits a position of need.

1498425480269086722

agree, id love to see the guy from my country in my fav nba team

[Atl Spur]

Sochan is nice.

[BackHome]

March Madness is going to have a big impact on a lot of these mock drafts it will be fun to watch who moves up and who moves down

[Ignazzz]

agree, id love to see the guy from my country in my fav nba team
Me too

[CGD]

Sochan has a good story. Like him with the TOR pick, but feels like someone OKC or a HOU will take before then

[BackHome]

Yeah I don’t think he will be there for our second pick I like him he plays great team defense as a Freshman he pretty much is the QB for his team on the defensive side. His only drawback is he is pretty much bellow the rim player he is not very explosive and is not a shot blocker but he is good at everything else.

Another player I am thinking the Spurs might take with our first pick is Tari Eason he is putting up numbers close to Murray’s but is only averaging 24 minutes a game and which is averaging 25pts , 10 rebounds, 3 steals, and 1.7 Blocks. I like him cause like he can guard multiple positions and he is an Excellent defender and I think with his athleticism his offensive game will only get better. I know some people have questioned his interviews but come on have you ever watched KY interviews? So I don’t see him as being a problem player at all. Any player who plays hard defensive is almost always going to be a players coach and I definitely think he would fit in well with our team.

[The Truth #6]

Keegan Murray. Kendall Brown. T. Eason. Jeremy Sochan. Landing one of those sounds logical. Yet knowing the Spurs, it probably won’t happen.

[ZeusWillJudge]

(I posted this in the wrong thread. I'm still liking the look of Malaki Branham as a bargain in this draft.)

If you haven't watched Ohio State this season, make a point of it and watch Malaki Branham. He could be another Desmond Bane (who I screamed for the Spurs to take). He's got that same sort of build, and hard-nosed style of play. I think he's as filled out as Bane was as a freshman, and he's shooting 44% from 3P which is much better than Bane as a freshman. If he declares, he should be available with one of the Spurs' later first round picks.


I wasn't real high on using the Spurs' own pick on Eason because I don't think he's that kind of player. But i saw him play against Arkansas and I would take him in a heartbeat with one of the later firsts. He forced his way to the line time after time, and knocked them down. I don't think he'll be able to bully that much in the NBA, and I'm still not sold on his 3P shot. But that extra dimension of forcing guys to foul him plus his D will put him on the court off someone's bench.

[duncan2150]

(I posted this in the wrong thread. I'm still liking the look of Malaki Branham as a bargain in this draft.)

If you haven't watched Ohio State this season, make a point of it and watch Malaki Branham. He could be another Desmond Bane (who I screamed for the Spurs to take). He's got that same sort of build, and hard-nosed style of play. I think he's as filled out as Bane was as a freshman, and he's shooting 44% from 3P which is much better than Bane as a freshman. If he declares, he should be available with one of the Spurs' later first round picks.


I wasn't real high on using the Spurs' own pick on Eason because I don't think he's that kind of player. But i saw him play against Arkansas and I would take him in a heartbeat with one of the later firsts. He forced his way to the line time after time, and knocked them down. I don't think he'll be able to bully that much in the NBA, and I'm still not sold on his 3P shot. But that extra dimension of forcing guys to foul him plus his D will put him on the court off someone's bench.


I just start to know Branham, he had a good stretch last weeks. He looks pretty good, one thing is that he likes to go inside but he can't create a big separation with his defender. He doesn't look like too athletic but he always finds way to score. He reminds me Middelton ( shorter version). The % are very nice.

For those who want to know him.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j4ku1NOLTVc

[R. DeMurre]

Baylor is such an interesting team, with no monster stat guys and a bunch of short guards paired with guys like Sochan and Kendall Brown, who play great versatile basketball. I'd guess their stats are both deflated, playing in that system.

[Mr. Body]

Baylor has transformed very recently into this defensive beast and contender. My guess is long-term these players will at least be coachable and play hard on that end.

[Ditty]

Possible realistic draft combinations I like as of right now:
7th - Griffin/Sharpe
17th - Sochan/Jovic
20th - Jovic/Baldwin Jr.

[Atl Spur]

Baylor has transformed very recently into this defensive beast and contender. My guess is long-term these players will at least be coachable and play hard on that end.

This.

[duncan2150]

If we want a C ( Rim runner, rebounder , protecting the paint) this year with one of our last picks ( Boston's one or Lakers one) there's a lot of good prospects this year.

Depends on what you think of Collins as a back up 5 but there is a list of some good C :

-Koloko from Arizona ( nearly 3 blocks in 24 minutes pg)
- Kessler from Auburn but will likely go before boston's pick
- Mark Williams from Duke ( 7'0 with a 7'7 wingspan)
- French prospect and good shotblocker, Ismael Kamagate.
- Oscar Tshiebwe from Kentucky

I'm not sure to use a first round on a pure C ( except Kessler imo) but if we want a good back up behind Poetl we'll have some good prospects in this draft;

[skin27]

Is there a chance the spurs get a top 3 pick?

[mo7888]

Is there a chance the spurs get a top 3 pick?

Yep...there's a chance..

[skin27]

Yep...there's a chance..

Hopefully

[XDT76]

Is there a chance the spurs get a top 3 pick?

As long as the team is not playoff there is a chance. Even the 14th place has 0.5% as 1st pick.

[Mr. Body]

Is there a chance the spurs get a top 3 pick?

This is a pretty good site. It seems the Spurs currently have a 32% chance for a Top 4 pick.

https://www.tankathon.com/

[skin27]

Mock draft shows spurs getting jhonny davis. Im watching his game right now on youbtube..look like a solid player

[emanueldavidginobili]

1500851858407108610

[Mr. Body]

I'd be up for drafting Jovic just to rescue him from those atrocious uniforms.

[skin27]

I'd be up for drafting Jovic just to rescue him from those atrocious uniforms.

Jovic? I thought its nikola jokic.. lol
But is he another soft european guy?

[Russ]

But is he another soft european guy?

Fool me once . . .

[duncan2150]

1500851858407108610

he's pretty impressive after a slow start of the season.

[skin27]

Fool me once . . .

Hopefully im wrong if the spurs ended with that european kid

[Kevin]

Mock draft shows spurs getting jhonny davis. Im watching his game right now on youbtube..look like a solid player


Nothing against the player but the Spurs taking another guard would feel like a big let down. So many forwards in the top 10 that fit what the Spurs need. If they end up picking 7 I am locked in on Keegan Murray. Perfect match for fit and need.

[Kurik]

Johnny Davis is a good player but hasn’t played well over the last 5 games.

My favorites if we end up picking at 7 are:

Murray
Griffin
Eason
Mathurin

All have good size and athleticism. Besides Eason the other 3 shoot a bunch of 3s at a good %. Eason can impact the game in a lot of different ways.

[BackHome]

I can live with those four as they all can put up points and are good to excellent defenders

[exstatic]

Is there a chance the spurs get a top 3 pick?

Yes. There’s this thing called the lottery draw. Our current odds to jump into the top 4 is about 33%. We’re sitting at #7, and in the three drafts with the new flattened odds, #7 has jumped into the top 4 all three years.

[BackHome]

Everyone go by a lottery ticket if you win we will land in the top 4...Book It...........:)

[exstatic]

Everyone go by a lottery ticket if you win we will land in the top 4...Book It...........:)

Lottery ticket odds aren’t 1 in 3.

[MultiTroll]

Chet looking good even bringing the ball up the court under pressure.
Sure, NBA D will be > college.
Just saying the guy has open court dribbling skills too.

Good for Popped getting the record but Tanking would be the short and long term best.

[skin27]

Johnny Davis is a good player but hasn’t played well over the last 5 games.

My favorites if we end up picking at 7 are:

Murray
Griffin
Eason
Mathurin

All have good size and athleticism. Besides Eason the other 3 shoot a bunch of 3s at a good %. Eason can impact the game in a lot of different ways.

youvmean Keegan Murray?

[mystargtr34]

Does anyone know how often Givony from ESPN updates his mocks? The last one was 23rd of Feb, is it two-weekly?

[mystargtr34]

As of right now I have the draft order something like the below, it will obviously depend on which teams are picking where. I think Tier 3 can be fluid depending on draft order. Chet and Jabari seem locks to go 1 and 2. I could see the Thunder or Rocket picking someone like AJ Griffin above Jaden Ivey given they are both set at the guard position.

Tier 1
Chet
Jabari

Tier 2
Banchero
Ivey

Tier 3
AJ Griffin
Keegan Murray
Shaedon Sharpe
Jalen Duren
Johnny Davis
Ben Mathurin

Tier 4
TyTy Washington
Dyson Daniels
Tari Eason
Ochai Agbaji
EJ Liddell
Marjon Beauchamp
Kendall Brown
Nikola Jovic
Jeremy Sochan
Malaki Branham

[mo7888]

As of right now I have the draft order something like the below, it will obviously depend on which teams are picking where. I think Tier 3 can be fluid depending on draft order. Chet and Jabari seem locks to go 1 and 2. I could see the Thunder or Rocket picking someone like AJ Griffin above Jaden Ivey given they are both set at the guard position.

Tier 1
Chet
Jabari

Tier 2
Banchero
Ivey

Tier 3
AJ Griffin
Keegan Murray
Shaedon Sharpe
Jalen Duren
Johnny Davis
Ben Mathurin

Tier 4
TyTy Washington
Dyson Daniels
Tari Eason
Ochai Agbaji
EJ Liddell
Marjon Beauchamp
Kendall Brown
Nikola Jovic
Jeremy Sochan
Malaki Branham

That's about where I'm at..

[BackHome]

Only change is I would have Tari Eason as a Tier 3 player and Walker Kessler as a Tier 4 player

[exstatic]

A possibility with our SRP is senior Trevion Williams from Purdue. He has strong Diaw energy, just a wizard with the ball, and a strong rebounder.

[The Truth #6]

A possibility with our SRP is senior Trevion Williams from Purdue. He has strong Diaw energy, just a wizard with the ball, and a strong rebounder.

That sounds promising. Nice find.

[pad300]

There's an Italian kid, Gabriele Procida, who belongs in Tier 4 (maybe tier 3) as a 3&D type who might be more.

[John B]

2 out of 7 tries when I did sim lottery on tankathon, Spurs got #1 pick :lol

[exstatic]

2 out of 7 tries when I did sim lottery on tankathon, Spurs got #1 pick :lol

I’m getting a good hit rate on top 4 picks.

[exstatic]

That sounds promising. Nice find.

I saw him mentioned in an article on TheStepien. The article was a generic draft piece, and of course featured Chet, but Travion got second billing. The piece was about 2-3 months old.

[BackHome]

There's an Italian kid, Gabriele Procida, who belongs in Tier 4 (maybe tier 3) as a 3&D type who might be more.

I like the kid he is super athletic and has a sweet outside shot but he definitely needs to work on his handles and getting stronger. For me I am looking at using Lakers pick on an international player as we have so many first rounds maybe keep them over for another year. My other International players I would not mind are:

Hugo Besson - PG/SG
Matteo Spagnolo PG/SG

[Russ]

There's an Italian kid, Gabriele Procida, who belongs in Tier 4 (maybe tier 3) as a 3&D type who might be more.

Manu Ginobili II?

Italian (yes, I know Manu's officially Argentine), 6'7", skinny, does it all.

If you can get this guy with a 2d round pick it's a home run.

[PhantomDashCam]

1501277043920498689

[Ignazzz]

2 out of 7 tries when I did sim lottery on tankathon, Spurs got #1 pick :lol
I did it once. Spurs #1

[Sugus]

Manu Ginobili II?

Italian (yes, I know Manu's officially Argentine), 6'7", skinny, does it all.

If you can get this guy with a 2d round pick it's a home run.

What's that supposed to mean bruh?? :lol

(I'm joking, I know he came over from an Italian club, but still funny lmao)

[John B]

I did it once. Spurs #1

Anything could happen. Tank gor Chet! :lol

[Russ]

Manu Ginobili II?

Italian (yes, I know Manu's officially Argentine), 6'7", skinny, does it all.

If you can get this guy with a 2d round pick it's a home run.


What's that supposed to mean bruh?? :lol

(I'm joking, I know he came over from an Italian club, but still funny lmao)

Because Ginobili is an Italian (hint: not Spanish) name, bruh. :)

(We'll skip the discussion of South American history.) :)

[BackHome]

We are at 7th pick but we are probably be picking from 8 to 10 - Portland is tanking hard and I would not be surprised if they do not win a singe game to close out the season. Then you got the Flakers who are going down in a ball of fire at any time they going to shut Lebron down and who knows what New York does. It's going to get interesting teams are really going to be be trying to show who is the Best tanker in the NBA....

[Ignazzz]

Lakers tank and shot down LBJ ( he needs points in Jabar’s race) without pick? No.

[mystargtr34]

I can’t see the Lakers shutting Lebron down while they are in the play in race and AD coming back. They have to feel they can pull off an upset, even though I don’t see it, unless they bring Westbrook off the bench and play AD at the 5.

[BatManu20]

Lebron ain’t letting anyone shut him down while he’s chasing Kareem’s scoring title. Get real.

Spurs will likely be selecting 8-10 though sadly, as Portland and Indy are clearly tanking, and LA is shit at the moment. We might even pass the Pelicans in the lottery with our easy upcoming schedule. Spurs simply won’t tank and that’s likely gonna cost us a few spots in the draft.

[John B]

Lebron ain’t letting anyone shut him down while he’s chasing Kareem’s scoring title. Get real.

Spurs will likely be selecting 8-10 though sadly, as Portland and Indy are clearly tanking, and LA is shit at the moment. We might even pass the Pelicans in the lottery with our easy upcoming schedule. Spurs simply won’t tank and that’s likely gonna cost us a few spots in the draft.

It’s tough. Spurs players are rallying for Pop’s record I’m sure.

[The Truth #6]

Pop talks about not tanking but he’s also pretty good at saying the company line. He’s obviously going to get the record. I see him resting some players to test others for evaluation purposes. It’s not Houston style tanking but it isn’t always focused on winning either. Kicking the tires on all these multiple overlapping players is smart and it would be dumb not to. So, like always, Spurs are doing it their way.

[Sugus]

Pop talks about not tanking but he’s also pretty good at saying the company line. He’s obviously going to get the record. I see him resting some players to test others for evaluation purposes. It’s not Houston style tanking but it isn’t always focused on winning either. Kicking the tires on all these multiple overlapping players is smart and it would be dumb not to. So, like always, Spurs are doing it their way.

This. If you've been following the season closely, it's hard to say that Pop has been doing his best effort for winning games - especially when it matters most in the 4th quarters. Obviously a big part of it is young players not knowing how to close games out, but Pop's substitution patterns, playmaking (or lack thereof), his "throw them into the fire and see what happens" attitude, and uncharacteristic reliance and prominence of playing rookies and young players, not to mention any lack of reinforcements at the trade deadline, all point to a "stealth tank".

Of course, the Rockettes-style tanking is better if you're chasing that #1 pick, but I don't think that's really what the Spurs have been aiming for. Looking at both teams' seasons, I'm sure if you asked Pop, he'd much rather have had the Spurs' than Houston's bottoming-out.

[John B]

This. If you've been following the season closely, it's hard to say that Pop has been doing his best effort for winning games - especially when it matters most in the 4th quarters. Obviously a big part of it is young players not knowing how to close games out, but Pop's substitution patterns, playmaking (or lack thereof), his "throw them into the fire and see what happens" attitude, and uncharacteristic reliance and prominence of playing rookies and young players, not to mention any lack of reinforcements at the trade deadline, all point to a "stealth tank".

Of course, the Rockettes-style tanking is better if you're chasing that #1 pick, but I don't think that's really what the Spurs have been aiming for. Looking at both teams' seasons, I'm sure if you asked Pop, he'd much rather have had the Spurs' than Houston's bottoming-out.

There's something about Pop that I doubt he would ever agree to the Rockette's style of tanking. I mean he'd throw players in the fire, experiment on different line-ups, and make situational learning experience for the players, and be indifferent of winning the game per se. But to lose for the purpose of tanking? I doubt it.

[Mr. Body]

This. If you've been following the season closely, it's hard to say that Pop has been doing his best effort for winning games - especially when it matters most in the 4th quarters. Obviously a big part of it is young players not knowing how to close games out, but Pop's substitution patterns, playmaking (or lack thereof), his "throw them into the fire and see what happens" attitude, and uncharacteristic reliance and prominence of playing rookies and young players, not to mention any lack of reinforcements at the trade deadline, all point to a "stealth tank".

Of course, the Rockettes-style tanking is better if you're chasing that #1 pick, but I don't think that's really what the Spurs have been aiming for. Looking at both teams' seasons, I'm sure if you asked Pop, he'd much rather have had the Spurs' than Houston's bottoming-out.

Houston doesn't really have the players to try to win games. Of course they'll win some randomly, but they're not really gearing up for a future of any kind.

[John B]

Houston doesn't really have the players to try to win games. Of course they'll win some randomly, but they're not really gearing up for a future of any kind.

Of course the Rockettes have the roster to win more games. They're just deliberately tanking, which Spurs should've been doing. I wouldn't doubt Rockettes would be contending next season with another high pick.

[exstatic]

Lebron ain’t letting anyone shut him down while he’s chasing Kareem’s scoring title. Get real.

Spurs will likely be selecting 8-10 though sadly, as Portland and Indy are clearly tanking, and LA is shit at the moment. We might even pass the Pelicans in the lottery with our easy upcoming schedule. Spurs simply won’t tank and that’s likely gonna cost us a few spots in the draft.

Indy’s not tanking. They were buyers at the deadline, acquiring Haliburton from Sacto. They’re pretty bad, though. Portland is absolutely tanking.

[Mr. Body]

Of course the Rockettes have the roster to win more games. They're just deliberately tanking, which Spurs should've been doing. I wouldn't doubt Rockettes would be contending next season with another high pick.

Lol no it's a terrible roster with young players with no coaching. You hilariously overate them.

[John B]

Lol no it's a terrible roster with young players with no coaching. You hilariously overate them.

lol. The Cavs also had the worst records the previous 3 years. What they also had a terrible roster? Don’t be naive. The Rockettes are doing the same. They lost 3 future hofers the last 2-3 years and on a heavy rebuild. But they’ll get another high pick this summer and they’re back. Spurs should’ve been doing the same, but they’re doing the Spurs way.

[Mr. Body]

lol. The Cavs also had the worst records the previous 3 years. What they also had a terrible roster? Don’t be naive. The Rockettes are doing the same. They lost 3 future hofers the last 2-3 years and on a heavy rebuild. But they’ll get another high pick this summer and they’re back. Spurs should’ve been doing the same, but they’re doing the Spurs way.

Just having a shitty roster doesn't automatically = having a promising roster. GTFOH.

[John B]

Just having a shitty roster doesn't automatically = having a promising roster. GTFOH.

Why are you saying the Rockets have a terrible roster? Just because they have a losing record right now? :lmao

[Sugus]

There's something about Pop that I doubt he would ever agree to the Rockette's style of tanking. I mean he'd throw players in the fire, experiment on different line-ups, and make situational learning experience for the players, and be indifferent of winning the game per se. But to lose for the purpose of tanking? I doubt it.

I agree, and that's the point, Pop's gonna do things his way. And tbh, beyond what any Exhalers on this forum may say, Pop's way has objectively brought the Spurs more high and sustained success than almost any other NBA team, nevermind a small market one. I'm not fully on board with some things he does, but the results have been there in the past, and I'm aboard the "process", so far at least. I also take issue with the bottoming-out style of tanking, it really erodes team morale and culture, and those aren't things so easily built back up once you get the top picks you're after. It's easier to end up on a Kings-style debacle than a Sixers-style Process, so to speak.


Houston doesn't really have the players to try to win games. Of course they'll win some randomly, but they're not really gearing up for a future of any kind.

I disagree, they have some players that could very well win them games, it's just that they don't GAF about any of that. The last time we played them was disgusting - Wood literally calls his own number and plays 1vs5 at the expense of the team, chasing his stats (and bag), Green is/was selfish and could really use some coaching to reel him back in, lest he develops bad habits (not that I care too much), and I don't even remember other notable pieces that they have.

What I mean when I say I disagree is, it's not that they don't have the players - it's that they chose not to have the players. Sounds obvious, but it's a stark contrast to the way the Spurs have approached tanking/rebuilding, when even knowing they wouldn't be good this season, they made some signings like McB to try and keep a semblance of floating. Houston just took the biggest anchor they could find, and tied their feet well around it. They didn't even sell on Wood at the deadline, which surprised me tbh.


(...) But they’ll get another high pick this summer and they’re back. Spurs should’ve been doing the same, but they’re doing the Spurs way.

No way, I disagree entirely (are you a Gambit's alt by any chance? :lol). There's no signs that the Rockettes have the better future or are moving towards championship contention in a "better" way than the Spurs. High picks ain't shit if you can't build around them or keep them (just ask the Kings, a revolving door of top picks over the years, who've just shed this season both Hali and Bagley, a #2 pick). It's easy to look at their picks and the Spurs', and assume they'll do better just because they're picking better, but there's no real historical evidence that it's gonna be the case. Most championship winners weren't built through the draft, and even those who were, weren't built entirely around it but on trades too, and the Rockettes have little to no assets there either, while the Spurs could perfectly consolidate some of their picks into better players/picks.

There's no one way to a championship, and sinking to the bottom is hardly a fast-track there, as history shows.

[Mr. Body]

Why are you saying the Rockets have a terrible roster? Just because they have a losing record right now? :lmao

Badly constructed. Terribly constructed, really. They have some chucklefucks they'll have to get rid of. Some vets they need to finally trade. There's no rhyme or reason to anything they've done this year or the way they play. Unless someone institutes an identity and method of team improvement, they'll circle around aimlessly.

[Mr. Body]

I disagree, they have some players that could very well win them games, it's just that they don't GAF about any of that. The last time we played them was disgusting - Wood literally calls his own number and plays 1vs5 at the expense of the team, chasing his stats (and bag), Green is/was selfish and could really use some coaching to reel him back in, lest he develops bad habits (not that I care too much), and I don't even remember other notable pieces that they have.

What I mean when I say I disagree is, it's not that they don't have the players - it's that they chose not to have the players. Sounds obvious, but it's a stark contrast to the way the Spurs have approached tanking/rebuilding, when even knowing they wouldn't be good this season, they made some signings like McB to try and keep a semblance of floating. Houston just took the biggest anchor they could find, and tied their feet well around it. They didn't even sell on Wood at the deadline, which surprised me tbh.

Of course they'll win some games. Green will go off, or somebody else. The point is sustainable success where they don't take an opponent by surprise every once in a while. Wood has to be moved. Gordon needs to be moved to a contender. Green needs to be taught that basketball is a team sport and before those shithouse habits lock in. (May be too late.) Porter is a fuckhead waiting to happen. A guy like Sengun needs a healthy team environment or he's going to rot quickly.

It's not simply about talent, it's about a system of improvement, accountability, and team desire. A team like the Spurs struggles to close games, but they're trying. Rockets are jacking up shots and running around before hitting the clubs, plus they seem to be giving the reins to a guy like Green who isn't going to lead you anywhere. He, and they, need discipline and some vets that can help them grow.

[John B]

^But the Rockets are not the Sacto. Houston had rings and championship dna, and has had good teams in the recent past. They put another high pick with Jalen/Porter Jr/Wood/Sengun? I’m just saying, it’s far from saying they are losing because Rockets have terrible players.

[John B]

Of course they'll win some games. Green will go off, or somebody else. The point is sustainable success where they don't take an opponent by surprise every once in a while. Wood has to be moved. Gordon needs to be moved to a contender. Green needs to be taught that basketball is a team sport and before those shithouse habits lock in. (May be too late.) Porter is a fuckhead waiting to happen. A guy like Sengun needs a healthy team environment or he's going to rot quickly.

It's not simply about talent, it's about a system of improvement, accountability, and team desire. A team like the Spurs struggles to close games, but they're trying. Rockets are jacking up shots and running around before hitting the clubs, plus they seem to be giving the reins to a guy like Green who isn't going to lead you anywhere. He, and they, need discipline and some vets that can help them grow.

Of course they’re doing that. They’re tanking. Watch they get another high pick this summer and you see those players you mentioned starts getting moved. :lol

[TD 21]

Outside of the longtime obvious needs (superstar/star + modern four), it'd be nice to see a modern skillset for once. Granted Primo was a stab at that, but he's also a project.

It's laughable that this team has neither someone adept at getting to the line or providing versatile (namely pull up), volume 3-point shooting.

If not that, at least consolidate and prioritize quality over quantity with the (likely) four picks + expendable players. For as much relative youth as they have, right now the only three prospects are Johnson, Vassell, Primo and it'll be an uphill battle for any to reach top 3 player on a good team status.

[T Park]

Why are you saying the Rockets have a terrible roster? Just because they have a losing record right now? :lmao

Because they have a shitty roster

[T Park]

Outside of the longtime obvious needs (superstar/star + modern four), it'd be nice to see a modern skillset for once. Granted Primo was a stab at that, but he's also a project.

It's laughable that this team has neither someone adept at getting to the line or providing versatile (namely pull up), volume 3-point shooting.

If not that, at least consolidate and prioritize quality over quantity with the (likely) four picks + expendable players. For as much relative youth as they have, right now the only three prospects are Johnson, Vassell, Primo and it'll be an uphill battle for any to reach top 3 player on a good team status.


Primo is literally the volume three point shooter

[Mr. Body]

Good loss vs. the Raps.

Raps with FVV back look like a PO team and showed some hunger.

NYK crushed Dallas and their skid seems stopped. It feels right now like the tank teams to worry about are Sacramento, Indiana, Portland, with those last two looking to lose a lot.

[T Park]

Those days are long gone and theres no structure from those winning days. Winning in the mid 90s is completely meaningless now

[T Park]

Correct if they can out lose Indiana and Sacramento and get to 5, thats a nice place to be, and with a little luck either get to 4 or someone like Smith or Banchero falls

[Mr. Body]

Correct if they can out lose Indiana and Sacramento and get to 5, thats a nice place to be, and with a little luck either get to 4 or someone like Smith or Banchero falls

I don't think they'll outlose either. Definitely not the Pacers. Best case scenario to me is sticking at #7.

[T Park]

I don't think they'll outlose either. Definitely not the Pacers. Best case scenario to me is sticking at #7.

They can outlose Sacramento IMO if they can concentrate on it. Still holding out hope Halliburton and Turner can get on a streak down the stretch against resting teams and the bottom feeders

[Mr. Body]

They can outlose Sacramento IMO if they can concentrate on it. Still holding out hope Halliburton and Turner can get on a streak down the stretch against resting teams and the bottom feeders

Check out the Spurs' schedule. They play the Blazers three times and some other softies.

[T Park]

Check out the Spurs' schedule. They play the Blazers three times and some other softies.

Dejounte and Keldon need to “sprain” an ankle after Pop gets that record.

[BackHome]

I don't think they'll outlose either. Definitely not the Pacers. Best case scenario to me is sticking at #7.

This…..only way we getting better pick is if the ping pong balls give us another solid

[spurs1990]

This…..only way we getting better pick is if the ping pong balls give us another solid

It’ll happen. 1987, 1997 and 2022 is a nice 10/10/25 year brackets factored set.

[buttsR4rebounding]

I can’t see the Lakers shutting Lebron down while they are in the play in race and AD coming back. They have to feel they can pull off an upset, even though I don’t see it, unless they bring Westbrook off the bench and play AD at the 5.

I think the Lakers will be resting LeBron quite a bit their last 17 games. I think that they realize they are most likely locked into the #9 seed. They are 4 1/2 back of the Clippers for the 8th seed and the Clips have the tie-breaker as of now. They look at the teams below them and SA is probably the scariest, so in other words they are not worried. I think they figure if they are healthy and rested that they will beat the 10 seed and maybe play the Clippers for the last play in game. There is virtually no chance that they can overtake Denver for the 6th seed so rest now to maximize your chances in the play in tourney.

[BatManu20]

Jeremy Sochan and Kendall Brown playing on ESPN right now as Baylor takes on OU in the Big 12 quarterfinals. Considering the Spurs are likely to pick between 7-10, both of these guys are realistic targets.

[ZeusWillJudge]

Big 10 Tourney second round tonight. Ohio State plays Penn State at 8:00 Central. Ohio is banged up, which means that they will need Malaki Branham to step up. If he does, he'll move up on more boards. This is when breakouts happen... or don't. Penn State is a good defensive team. If he gets shut down, he's probably going to have a tough time going in the first round and I think he'll come back for a soph season. Good chance to watch him play.

[BackHome]

Yep players draft status are going to go up and down in March Madness - will be fun to watch

[BatManu20]

Sochan and Kendall Brown both choking down the stretch. Brown cheeses a wide open layup that would’ve cut the lead to 4, and Sochan gives up and and-1 layup to put OU up by 6. Sochan has struggled to guard pretty much everyone he switched on to tonight.

[mystargtr34]

AJ Griffin did basically nothing for Duke.

Keegan Murray had a great game in Iowa’s win.

Brown and Sochan for Baylor were both very underwhelming from the half I watched.

[Mr. Body]

I don't get the hype for AJ Griffin. He can barely dribble and he's incredibly slow on defense. Is it because he plays for Duke? I get that he has an exceptional shot so far, but he's often getting ranked top of Tier 2 in many lists. He may be unplayable as a starter.

[BackHome]

My draft so far:

First:
1. Keegan Murray - PF
2. Tari Eason - PF/SF

Second First:
1. Walker Kessler - C
2. Mark Williams - C
3. Nikola Jovic - SF/PF

Third First:
1. Jean Montero - PG
2.Christian Braun - SG
3.Blake Wesley - SG
*Patrick Baldwin Jr

Second Round:
1. Hugo Besson - PG
2. Matteo Spagnolo - PG/SG
3. Jaime Jaquez Jr. = SG/SF
4. Gabriele Procida - SG/SF

* Patrick Baldwin - man it sucks for him he has been out since February 9th with a ankle injury and his dad the coach was fired from the team that has to be weird.

[ZeusWillJudge]

AJ Griffin did basically nothing for Duke.

Keegan Murray had a great game in Iowa’s win.




Northwestern was a really weak opponent. Iowa's season SOS was a lot weaker this year, compared to last. Still, I may have underestimated him. He shot a LOT more 3's than I thought he would, and he kept his 3P% higher than I expected. I just don't see how the Spurs could take anyone who isn't a 3P threat. Especially if they have a new coach whose ideas are part of the discussion.

If Murray has a game like that against Rutgers, it's a different story. The mocks are going to start talking about him in the 5 or 4 slot in this draft. I don't think anyone will rank him as high as Banchero in mock drafts, but the Spurs would definitely have to get a ping pong ball to reach him. There's still a lot of basketball to be played, but he's definitely on an uptick.

[ZeusWillJudge]

* Patrick Baldwin - man it sucks for him he has been out since February 9th with a ankle injury and his dad the coach was fired from the team that has to be weird.


He really is screwed. Went to a second rate school to play for dad. He gets injured, dad gets fired. Where does he go from here? This isn't a good year for him to declare, but it isn't a good situation to come back to next year.

He will be an NBA player, I don't have any doubt about that. Unless this injury is wors than they're saying, he could wind up being a late first (or possibly even early second round) bargain. He might need a year in Austin to make up for what he missed out on this year, but that's nothing new for the Spurs anyway.

I would throw the Spurs third first-round pick at him. IF they get three. But I don't think the Rap's pick is going to convey. I might still with the Celt's pick, depending on what the board looks like. The Spurs aren't going to get a star that deep, and I really do think that Baldwin will be seen as a draft bargain in a couple of years.

[BatManu20]

If Spurs land between 8-10 in the draft as most of us expect, Keegan Murray will likely be long gone. He’s played himself into a top-7 draft pick imo. Only thing I could see dropping him is his age but I don’t see any scenario where he falls below the 8th pick at the latest.

[Mr. Body]

If Spurs land between 8-10 in the draft as most of us expect, Keegan Murray will likely be long gone. He’s played himself into a top-7 draft pick imo. Only thing I could see dropping him is his age but I don’t see any scenario where he falls below the 8th pick at the latest.

That age thing will get him to drop a little, unless he kills it in the Tournament. I think the hype for Griffin keeps him going too high and teams will bite on a guy like Sharpe without seeing him play college (or at all). I think he'll be the type who drops and everyone shakes their head in retrospect.

[TD 21]

If Spurs land between 8-10 in the draft as most of us expect, Keegan Murray will likely be long gone. He’s played himself into a top-7 draft pick imo. Only thing I could see dropping him is his age but I don’t see any scenario where he falls below the 8th pick at the latest.

Of course and 8-10 would be a terrible spot given the lack of forwards/consensus period in that range.

This is one time where, if they want him or whoever outside of probably the top 4 badly enough, they have the ammunition to manipulate the draft board.

[Dejounte]

KMurray would be the perfect roll man for DJ. DJ is getting more and more creative with his passes inside.

[Dejounte]

KMurray also makes quick decisions when scoring with the ball. DJ likes to push the pace and KMurray doesn’t look like he would slow that down like most bigs.

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/bf1T3OY09Ao

Dyson looks like the perfect pick with our later FRPs. Plays point and big enough to guard wings.

[Russ]

https://youtu.be/bf1T3OY09Ao

Dyson looks like the perfect pick with our later FRPs. Plays point and big enough to guard wings.

Took you long enough, but finally. :toast

[mo7888]

https://youtu.be/bf1T3OY09Ao

Dyson looks like the perfect pick with our later FRPs. Plays point and big enough to guard wings.


I think he's going to rise up the board and be right on the cusp of the lottery. I like him...he's a little like a 'less confident' Cade Cunningham to me right now...

[ZeusWillJudge]

Branham had a so-so game last night. I didn't know it before the game, but he was playing with an ankle injury. That whole team is beaten up. Ohio state only had 6 players score, and one of those was a single 3-pointer. They just got run down late in the second half.

I still like a lot of what I see from him - especially his court vision and passing ability in addition to the long ball. If he declares, he would still be on my short list for the Celt's pick.

[dbestpro]

I think they should try really hard to win so they will move up in the lottery.................................

[BatManu20]

Most mocks have Dyson Daniels going in the later lottery now sadly.