2024 NBA Draft Thread

[kobyz]

Depends on how much they love Risacher (if that’s indeed their guy). But if they love Clingan for example and think HOU will pass on him I think something like Pick 4 + CHI pick would get it done pretty easily

Hope for it, it will be fantastic to get both Risacher and Saluan

[TD 21]

Holy shit, dude.

Yeah, more like third best small guard ever (Curry, Paul).

[Leetonidas]

Magic/Curry are clearly above Stockton in all-time PG discussions. I guess if by greatest PG you mean greatest floor general, or greatest pure PG not factoring in career achievements, then yeah i can see that

[Bruno]

Regarding Risacher's availibilty at #4:
- Hawks should pick Sarr.
- Risacher's agent is Doug Neustadt. He was Boris Diaw agent and he currently only has one NBA client with Deni Avdija, who might be Wizards most valuable player. If Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, that is a really bad fit for him, I highly doubt they will force the issue and upset his agent.

It all depends on Houston at #3. Do they want him and is it a team he would like to go? I guess a lot will depend on how they plan to use Amen Thompson. If they want to play him as a point forward, they might go with Reed Sheppard or even Stephon Castle. If they want to play him as a point guard, Risacher makes sense for them. For Risacher's clan, Houston is a team with a good coach that has played well this year, they might like it.

[spurraider21]

Regarding Risacher's availibilty at #4:
- Hawks should pick Sarr.
- Risacher's agent is Doug Neustadt. He was Boris Diaw agent and he currently only has one NBA client with Deni Avdija, who might be Wizards most valuable player. If Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, that is a really bad fit for him, I highly doubt they will force the issue and upset his agent.

It all depends on Houston at #3. Do they want him and is it a team he would like to go? I guess a lot will depend on how they plan to use Amen Thompson. If they want to play him as a point forward, they might go with Reed Sheppard or even Stephon Castle. If they want to play him as a point guard, Risacher makes sense for them. For Risacher's clan, Houston is a team with a good coach that has played well this year, they might like it.
tbh i think sheppard just makes a ton of sense for houston, but i agree that it largely depends on how they see Thompson. even with Thompson seen as a PG, sheppard as a combo guard off the bench to be the primary backup to both Thompson and Green, or with the lineup versatility to have him come in for Brooks and have Thompson temporarily slide to forward... a lot of possibilities. think houston sees how valuable having a steady hand in the backcourt is. FVV wont be there forever this may well be his last year there

[Obstructed_View]

Yeah, more like third best small guard ever (Curry, Paul).
Man, there is no all-time lineup I've ever constructed that has Chris Paul anywhere near it. Curry is the best shooter I've ever seen and is an underrated defender, but that's the only reason he's on a "small guard" list to me. The only other point guard I ever put in an all time list aside from Stockton is Magic. Maybe it's all those years of watching him play against the Spurs. Fuck, he was tough. Early on he scored a lot of points, then later he just turned it on when he needed to.

Seems like somehow Karl Malone's skeevyness is making people remember Stock incorrectly.

Sorry for derailing the thread a bit. I'd love to see the Spurs draft a traditional pass-first point guard, but I think if they do it would be the first time since I've been a fan of the team. Beno Udrih is the closest they have had since Strick left.

[TD 21]

Magic/Curry are clearly above Stockton in all-time PG discussions. I guess if by greatest PG you mean greatest floor general, or greatest pure PG not factoring in career achievements, then yeah i can see that

Didn't Nixon/Scott/Cooper primarily defend at the point of attack while Johnson served as the primary initiator?

If so, then why does he get to be classified as a PG (Doncic too), but James doesn't?


Man, there is no all-time lineup I've ever constructed that has Chris Paul anywhere near it.

Check his advanced metrics (yes, even in the playoffs).

[Leetonidas]

Didn't Nixon/Scott/Cooper primarily defend at the point of attack while Johnson served as the primary initiator?

If so, then why does he get to be classified as a PG (Doncic too), but James doesn't?

I'm fine with classifying either of them as PGs tbh

[TD 21]

I'm fine with classifying either of them as PGs tbh

Alright, then James is indisputably the GOAT PG.

[DPG21920]

Regarding Risacher's availibilty at #4:
- Hawks should pick Sarr.
- Risacher's agent is Doug Neustadt. He was Boris Diaw agent and he currently only has one NBA client with Deni Avdija, who might be Wizards most valuable player. If Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, that is a really bad fit for him, I highly doubt they will force the issue and upset his agent.

It all depends on Houston at #3. Do they want him and is it a team he would like to go? I guess a lot will depend on how they plan to use Amen Thompson. If they want to play him as a point forward, they might go with Reed Sheppard or even Stephon Castle. If they want to play him as a point guard, Risacher makes sense for them. For Risacher's clan, Houston is a team with a good coach that has played well this year, they might like it.

Very good points. I think theres a solid chance Risacher is available at 4…

[dbestpro]

No, you don’t. Steph Curry wasn’t first. Chris Paul wasn’t first. John Stockton wasn’t first. Stockton wasn’t the best point guard of all time. He places around 9th on that list. I don’t even think this is the point that alf was trying to make.

Oscar Robertson.

[Limguogolo]

I would go easy on Salaun. He's a end of first round pick on a good draft you take a flyer on.

It's always a bit annoying when the first thing everyone repeats about a prospect is "He's a hard worker, he'll improve". You can translate it by: Raw, limited, lot of work to do, which is true for Salaun who doesn't have star potential at all.

I like the kid but he's just not a natural, doesn't have that feel for the game like Zach does for example... He stands out a bit in the french league becasue of his physicality and agressivity but that won't be enough in the NBA to be probably more than a mid-bench player/3rd stringer, if he actually belongs. there's nothing about him you could say he's even just good at and could become his bread and butter in the NBA.

He's closer to Sidy Cissoko than Risacher, and if he can get 10-12 min/ game in the NBA on career, that would already be a great success imo. Smoke screen from the spurs if you ask me. they're probably not interested while they already have Sidy.
Sidy is a powerful guard who can carry the ball, dunk, has excellent vision of the game, but does not have a shot. Salaün is a SF-PF who can't carry the ball, who can dunk, doesn't pass the ball much and has a long distance shot. Outside of defense where they can defend on almost every position, I don't see the comparison.

As for the comparison made by Bruno above concerning the IQ of Risacher and Salaün, I have a little doubt that this translates effectively into the game. Risacher is certainly a very "Pop" coachable player, but Salaün has this Latin spirit, very French flair, very Manu which brings something extra to a match, a touch of madness. Risacher sticks to what he knows how to do, and I would always have doubts about his shy and reserved profile. The two would also be quite complementary in SF (Klay Thompson like) and PF (Aaron Gordon with a shot) but this will probably concern only the French team one day.

Having Risacher is like having a lotto ticket that guarantees you an 80% chance of winning $1,000. Having Salaün is like having a lottery ticket that would give you a 40% chance of winning $20,000. (Sekou Doumbouya is a fantastic scorer who can score from anywhere, but who doesn't defend. I have trouble understanding the comparisons sometimes^^.)

[BackHome]

The only thing I don’t like about Risacher is he seems so passive vs. Saluan who plays with an attitude and I wish he was a better FT shooter as it would help me believe in his 3 ball percentage. I would not hate the pick as he is so young and all ready has a good base to work from. What would be funny is that if we draft RISC at #4 and then Mantas at #8 and before people say they play the same position I really think RISC is a 3 and Mantas will eventually be moved to the 4

[mo7888]

Very good points. I think theres a solid chance Risacher is available at 4…

I think so too. I don't see Washington or Houston taking him. I could see Atlanta though. If he does fall to #4 I think the Spurs take him. I like him, but I like Buzelis a little better for the Spurs, but they'll go Risacher.

[CGD]

Lots of nightmare scenarios emerging. Most of them involve Topic and Salaun.

Definitely more chatter about Salaun to Spurs at 8 from the podcast draft crowd.

[SpursBills]

If the spurs actually want topic and Salaun, there is literally no reason for them not to trade down with Portland and get 7 and 14 or Memphis for 9 and an asset. Topic will either go to the wizards or he will last until pick 8

[FireMicoHalili]

Definitely more chatter about Salaun to Spurs at 8 from the podcast draft crowd.
Intellectually lazy just because (a) the Spurs have lottery picks and (b) he’s French, Wemby, Diaw, and Parker are French, they probably draft someone French. Sports media is a highly unserious industry. Any bloke can get credentialed lmao

[rascal]

The only thing I don’t like about Risacher is he seems so passive vs. Saluan who plays with an attitude and I wish he was a better FT shooter as it would help me believe in his 3 ball percentage. I would not hate the pick as he is so young and all ready has a good base to work from. What would be funny is that if we draft RISC at #4 and then Mantas at #8 and before people say they play the same position I really think RISC is a 3 and Mantas will eventually be moved to the 4

Risacher looks soft,

Would be a horrible pick at 4. Want a player with some fire in his game like Castle.

[alfahdlan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3aWgGJy3Ic
Ball.Hawk

[CGD]

Intellectually lazy just because (a) the Spurs have lottery picks and (b) he’s French, Wemby, Diaw, and Parker are French, they probably draft someone French. Sports media is a highly unserious industry. Any bloke can get credentialed lmao

Maybe, but it’s also logical at some level. If the spurs are gonna take their PG at 4, then the top tier wings will be gone by 8. You’re looking at the Cody/Saluan tier by then. And then you layer on Vic’s statement about Saluan, and here we are..

[scott]

Say we make a good choice at #4 (Buzelis, Holland, Dillingham, Sheppard) at 4... we could be left with a real Sophie's Choice of Topic or Salaun or Williams at 8. Fuck it, give me Devin Carter or Knecht at that point.

[objective]

Posted it in timvp mock thread, but I've come around on Dillingham as an alternative to Sheppard.

Do I prefer Sheppard? Yes, by a lot. Defensive events and hit ahead passes he what I want. But I'd be okay with Dillingham

And while he may be one of the worst defenders ever, I remembered that Pop doesn't care about that much anymore. Forbes and Branham were allowed to poop all over the court non stop, why not Dillingham?

[spurraider21]

Posted it in timvp mock thread, but I've come around on Dillingham as an alternative to Sheppard.

Do I prefer Sheppard? Yes, by a lot. Defensive events and hit ahead passes he what I want. But I'd be okay with Dillingham

And while he may be one of the worst defenders ever, I remembered that Pop doesn't care about that much anymore. Forbes and Branham were allowed to poop all over the court non stop, why not Dillingham?
ive see-sawed on dillingham/sheppard. ive had them basically in the same tier. about a month ago i was leaning sheppard. now dilly. but not by enough to be unhappy with either outcome

[PhantomDashCam]

Daily Bub update.

1791460797312303382

[scott]

Always down for dudes named Bub

[mudyez]

Everyone is calling Sheppard a Houston guy but well...isn't he a perfect fit with our team as well?
As fun as it would be to have a true PG, we will run a lot of offense though Wembys hands anyway and inverted Wemby/Sheppard pick and pops sound nice to me.
We might even be able to get a true PG with the other pick or next year with Sheppard not clogging our rotation, instead just playing off guard.

If we take Dillingham/Topic we are all in and can't really go BPA later. Topic if healthy seems to have the upside to be special. Dilly looks to much of a microwave sixth man to me. Not really bad, but there are plenty of them in the league now.

At the curent point my Big Board looks like this:
1) Sheppard
2) Risacher
3) Sarr
4) Buzelis
5) Topic
6) Castle
7) Salaun
8) Knecht
9) Dillingham
10) Williams

...but would avoid any combination between Sarr/Buz/Salaun/Topic as we should at least insert one shooter to our team.

BTW: Like 15 years ago I was jerking of to the idea od having like 5-6 french players, with the idea of them being a cohesive unit with national team experience. If we end up with Risacher+Salaun, the dream is alive...meaning if we get Risacher with #4, I would Salaun one or two spots on my board.

[SpursBills]

Honestly if the spurs' main targets are gone by 8 and there are no trade partners to be had to move down, I'd rather take Clingan if he's still on the board rather than a flyer on an athlete who has no idea how to play basketball or overrated volume scorer who can't defend or playmake. Injury concerns aside, at worst you run him as a backup big for 16 minutes a game and have the best rim protection in the league for 48 minutes. Spurs are losing non-Wemby minutes by so much and this would go a long way to improving that. Run him with Wemby for heavier minutes against elite post-up bigs.

As to whether he can play with Wemby, who knows? He can't shoot and has very little hope of ever becoming a good shooter, but he's a wide body who's pretty mobile with almost a 2:1 AST:TO as a 20 year old which is a rarity for bigs. Run him as a DHO hub if you draft Dillingham or Sheppard or some other shooter in the future and let him playmake out of the short roll. It's not an action you probably want to run with Wemby a ton because 1) Wemby's skinny and 2) you don't want defenders constantly running into Wemby's legs, but it probably works for Clingan.
Let's see Wemby develop the Durant side of his game getting easy shots as a cutter or jump shooter 10 minutes a game, or put Clingan in the dunker spot occasionally. Just don't play him with Sochan and Wemby both and you can probably be ok. Given his injury history, size, and high foul rate you're probably not going to run him more than 25-30 minutes a game anyway, but he can have an elite impact during that time.

Comparisons to Poeltl are underselling him by a large amount, as he absolutely waffle-crushes him in pretty much every defensive metric at the same age - blocks, FG% against, DEFR, dBPM, dBPR while being significantly longer and a better passer. If you comp him to Walker Kessler, I actually like Clingan significantly more. He doesn't block as many shots, but still has an elite block rate. More importantly, Clingan seems more positionally sound and is better at shutting down the paint completely as opposed to Kessler who sometimes found himself out of position chasing blocks. I think he honestly has all-defense potential as a drop big and his passing and feel as well as his success in Hurley's system. If it doesn't work out, just trade him for an asset down the line. The number of skilled bigs in the past 5 years has exploded and I think that truly elite defensive bigs, especially those with the defensive impact of Clingan, will get increasingly more valuable in the future.

Ultimately, would I rather have Sheppard and Castle, or maybe Dillingham and Castle. But if the ping pong balls go against the spurs and Clingan drops while the Spurs' primary targets get picked, I have no issues if they decide to pull the trigger on Clingan and at the very least keep him out of the hands of Memphis or OKC.

[Eaglenole2002]

So we know Primo was drafted to be a PG or at worst a secondary creator. Sochan was given the point guard job until we finally decided it was ruining the offense. I’m still not sure the point Sochan thing was truly to make him a PG or just to immerse him into a playmaker role since we didn’t have a legit starting it PG anyway. In a way it would give him a ton of connective tissue experience that help him become a secondary creator.

All of that is a long way of asking should we be thinking the Spurs prefer a PG like Castle and Topic? They are big PGs who are connective tissue players rather than a small scorer like Dilly or a smaller framed shooter like Sheppard?

[Snaq O'Meal]

Based on the Spurs' preferences in the past, I think that they like having a combo guard running the point. With that in mind, I wanted to look at one of my favorite combo guard prospects that hasn't gotten as much here: Devin Carter

The guy is currently mocked in the mid-first so he'd be a reach with either our pick or the conveyed Raptors pick, but he has a lot of indicators suggesting that if only a few things break right, he might be one of the most valuable players to come out of the draft.

Overview
First and foremost, he's probably the second best perimeter defender in the draft after Ryan Dunn. I'd say he probably has the best lateral quickness of anyone in the draft. His numbers support that as well - STL% and BLK% of nearly 3 each are elite numbers for a guard. Additionally, unlike other defense-first upperclassman guards who busted (are busting) out of the league (Davion Mitchell, Jevon Carter), he's got the size and athleticism (26 dunks on the year) to back up his defensive instincts. He's a legit 6'3" with a 6'9" wingspan, and is also an elite rebounding guard - his 14 TRB% compares to that of much taller guys like Ryan Dunn and even Filipowski. He's a combo guard with a big wingspan who plays even bigger, which allows him to hold up on switches while his lateral agility potentially allows him to become a weapon against small shifty guards.

Offensively this year, he's taken a leap. Ever since Bryce Hopkins went down for the season in early January, Carter's been by far the #1 option for Providence and has put up some monster statlines against good competition. 28/11/6/4/1 against #18 Creighton. 24/15/4/2/2 against #2 UConn. 27/8/3/2/1 against #10 Marquette. This is with getting consistently double-teamed as the primary offensive option while still putting up elite defensive numbers. Since Hopkins went down after the new year he's been averaging 22/9/4 on good efficiency.

Shot Diet - Rim pressure and 3s
The biggest question for Carter, like most other defensive guard prospects, is his 3 point shooting. As a bigger defensive guard with high rebounding numbers and elite DAWG/48, my comps for him include Kris Dunn, GP II, and Josh Hart. Dunn and GP II had a lower shooting signal with lower FT%, lower 3pt volume, and lower 3 pt%. It is unsurprising that their outside shooting never came around, although they have found pro success by utilizing their defensive prowess, athleticism, and frame. Hart is a more apt comparison, as a league-average streaky shooter with a similar FT% and a slightly higher 3 pt% on lower volume. However, I would argue that the types of 3s that Carter is shooting (pull-ups, deep 3s) are more difficult as the primary option compared to Hart's shot diet and there is more hope for Carter.

With regards to rim pressure, excluding Nikola Topic, Devin Carter has the best combination of rim attempts and rim finishing (65%) of any of the guard prospects in the draft. By far his biggest weakness is in the midrange, but if you look at his shot diet, it's essentially a modern NBA shot diet with the vast majority of attempts being rim attempts and 3s.

Fit for the Spurs
Interestingly, Carter's combination of frame, defensive versatility, all around goodness, and unfortunate hairline gives him an upside comp very near and dear to most Spurs fans:

https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=devin-carter--derrick-white

Just like Derrick developed his defense to become one of the best guard defenders in the NBA in spite of an anemic college steal rate, Carter would have to develop his playmaking chops and continue the development of his outside shot to get to where White is today. This is not impossible - Carter's shown the ability to make advanced PNR reads and hit tight windows with his passing. His shooting has improved year over year. He has an NBA dad who undoubtedly showed him how much work it takes to make it in the league and he by all accounts has a great work ethic. However, if those things do develop appropriately, you're looking at what is probably the ideal point guard next to Wemby, a switchable guard who gives you a POA defender on fast guards to pair with Sochan's ability to defend bigger forwards and who doesn't die on screens or get hunted in mismatches, as well as a guy who can take a portion of the playmaking demands while providing spot of shooting and rim pressure in doses.

Draft Projection
I think he's going to be drafted late and outperform his draft projection. As far as upperclassmen go, I'd rather have Carter than Knecht for sure but they're completely different types of players. I basically put Carter, Sheppard, Castle, and McCain in the same category as combo guards with varying levels of defensive versatility and shooting. With regards to fit on the Spurs, I probably still put Sheppard first due to his jumper and defensive playmaking. However, I suspect that even though Carter's going to be the last one of the 4 drafted, he won't be the worst pro of the 4. Doesn't make sense to draft him with the Spurs natural pick, but if a trade-down opportunity is there I'd look very hard into drafting him as a 22 year old ready-made defender who doesn't need nearly as much developmental resources as a teenager but still with significant upside potential.

This excellent analysis is worth a re-read.

[BackHome]

Say we make a good choice at #4 (Buzelis, Holland, Dillingham, Sheppard) at 4... we could be left with a real Sophie's Choice of Topic or Salaun or Williams at 8. Fuck it, give me Devin Carter or Knecht at that point.

I would not mind Carter at all he has almost elite defense it was his offense that was always in question and he answered it this year. He instantly makes us a much better defensive team and he still can bring the offensive shooting that we need to get spacing for Wemby

[scott]

I would not mind Carter at all he has almost elite defense it was his offense that was always in question and he answered it this year. He instantly makes us a much better defensive team and he still can bring the offensive shooting that we need to get spacing for Wemby

Yeah I like Carter a lot, he is solidly in my 2nd tier, above a lot of prospects that most would rank higher. Wouldn't mind the "reach" for him at 8 at all.

[heyheymymy]

BTW: Like 15 years ago I was jerking of to the idea od having like 5-6 french players, with the idea of them being a cohesive unit with national team experience. If we end up with Risacher+Salaun, the dream is alive...meaning if we get Risacher with #4, I would Salaun one or two spots on my board.

Jones
Vassell
Risacher
Salaun
Wemby

triple French lineup is très bien

[cutewizard]

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

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ag5CEMndDSw

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KghlkQ1DSFs

[exstatic]

Everyone is calling Sheppard a Houston guy but well...isn't he a perfect fit with our team as well?
As fun as it would be to have a true PG, we will run a lot of offense though Wembys hands anyway and inverted Wemby/Sheppard pick and pops sound nice to me.
We might even be able to get a true PG with the other pick or next year with Sheppard not clogging our rotation, instead just playing off guard.

If we take Dillingham/Topic we are all in and can't really go BPA later. Topic if healthy seems to have the upside to be special. Dilly looks to much of a microwave sixth man to me. Not really bad, but there are plenty of them in the league now.

At the curent point my Big Board looks like this:
1) Sheppard
2) Risacher
3) Sarr
4) Buzelis
5) Topic
6) Castle
7) Salaun
8) Knecht
9) Dillingham
10) Williams

...but would avoid any combination between Sarr/Buz/Salaun/Topic as we should at least insert one shooter to our team.

BTW: Like 15 years ago I was jerking of to the idea od having like 5-6 french players, with the idea of them being a cohesive unit with national team experience. If we end up with Risacher+Salaun, the dream is alive...meaning if we get Risacher with #4, I would Salaun one or two spots on my board.

They’re calling him a Houston guy because Houston picks before we do.

[The Truth #6]

Yeah I like Carter a lot, he is solidly in my 2nd tier, above a lot of prospects that most would rank higher. Wouldn't mind the "reach" for him at 8 at all.

Yeah, that's where I'm at. This sounds crazy, but going through all the top prospects, everyone has major holes in their game, usually bad defense or bad shooting, but Devin Carter seems like the only player without glaring weaknesses. Not saying his ceiling is as high as the others, but it's hard for me to ignore how much Carter offers without the obvious problems.

So in this scenario, assuming Devin Carter is there at 8, Spurs take Castle at 4? Just spitballing.

[Snaq O'Meal]

Yeah, that's where I'm at. This sounds crazy, but going through all the top prospects, everyone has major holes in their game, usually bad defense or bad shooting, but Devin Carter seems like the only player without glaring weaknesses. Not saying his ceiling is as high as the others, but it's hard for me to ignore how much Carter offers without the obvious problems.

So in this scenario, assuming Devin Carter is there at 8, Spurs take Castle at 4? Just spitballing.

I'd love to have both tbh, with a preference for Carter over Castle.

But I'd also like someone like Edey to free up Wemby from taking a pounding. The team gets outmuscled on the regular, and I hate to see Wemby setting picks with his slender frame. Edey thrives on the physical stuff, and his bully ball will be a load for any team to deal with.

[couchman]

I’ve liked Carter for a long time.
I would certainly take him over Tiddy

[John B]

I had it with our PG who can’t shoot. I’d welcome a Reed/Wemby pick and pop. I dreaded those Curry shots at slightest opening. The only thing is Spurs glaring point-of-attack which I warming on Castle, plus defending bigger guards like Doncic, JDubs, Morant (not big but athletic). This Vassell and Sochan really need to step up to make Reed work. I see Dilly as a Tony Parker, who can break defenses hence creating opportunities. There’s argument for the 3 however the Spurs want to go, and I’m fine with it. If they take Castle, I hope they take Risacher shooting at 4.

[sfernald]

It's uncanny how nearly identical Bronny James's combine numbers were to Reed Sheppard's.

Lane Agility
Bronny: 10.96
Sheppard: 10.96

Shuttle Run
Bronny: 3.02
Sheppard: 3.03

Three Quarter Sprint
Bronny: 3.09
Sheppard: 3.08

Standing Vertical Leap
Bronny: 32"
Sheppard: 32.5"

Max Vertical Leap
Bronny: 40.5"
Sheppard: 42"

https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-strength-agility?SeasonYear=2024-25&dir=D&sort=MAX_VERTICAL_LEAP

if Bronny had had Reed’s season he would be the consensus #1 pick without any doubt!

[exstatic]

I had it with our PG who can’t shoot. I’d welcome a Reed/Wemby pick and pop. I dreaded those Curry shots at slightest opening. The only thing is Spurs glaring point-of-attack which I warming on Castle, plus defending bigger guards like Doncic, JDubs, Morant (not big but athletic). This Vassell and Sochan really need to step up to make Reed work. I see Dilly as a Tony Parker, who can break defenses hence creating opportunities. There’s argument for the 3 however the Spurs want to go, and I’m fine with it. If they take Castle, I hope they take Risacher shooting at 4.

They’ll never get Castle/Risacher at 4/8, and you probably need to get comfortable with the fact that every player in this draft has warts and holes in their game. I like him, but Reed is going to get hunted and punished on defense by bigger and better guards.

[John B]

It's uncanny how nearly identical Bronny James's combine numbers were to Reed Sheppard's.

Lane Agility
Bronny: 10.96
Sheppard: 10.96

Shuttle Run
Bronny: 3.02
Sheppard: 3.03

Three Quarter Sprint
Bronny: 3.09
Sheppard: 3.08

Standing Vertical Leap
Bronny: 32"
Sheppard: 32.5"

Max Vertical Leap
Bronny: 40.5"
Sheppard: 42"

https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-strength-agility?SeasonYear=2024-25&dir=D&sort=MAX_VERTICAL_LEAP

You can argue the same with Wemby and Bol Bol, but the product is not the same.

[exstatic]

You can argue the same with Wemby and Bol Bol, but the product is not the same.

Exactly. Don’t fall in love with measurables and anthro. They still need to be able to play basketball. Weighting this kind of shit too highly caused guys like SGA and Book to drop to the late lottery, while lesser more athletic candidates were drafted ahead of them.

[John B]

They’ll never get Castle/Risacher at 4/8, and you probably need to get comfortable with the fact that every player in this draft has warts and holes in their game. I like him, but Reed is going to get hunted and punished on defense by bigger and better guards.

These are 18-19 years old. It will be up to Spurs scout and eventually development staff to work on those weaknesses. People argue that Reed is short but he’s the average height for NBA PG with Morant, Fox, Brunson, VanFleet all performing great. And Reed is not a pushover who prides on his defense 2.5 steals and almost a block per game. Spurs had Tony Parker 6’2” for 17 years. It’s up to Vassell/Sochan to be the new Green/Bowen and help defend.

There’s a good argument for drafting any of Reed, Dilly, Castle. It’s best if Spurs could come out with shooting and athletic wing from this draft. But then again there is free agency and trades also so it’s not like the Spurs have to get everything from this draft. Maybe we get Ingram and that solves the athletic wing need, then maybe Salaun would be a great pickup with a high ceiling in 2-3 years. But I really am getting excited with a Reed/Wemby pick and pop, like Stockton/Malone. Reed is a high character who’s a team-first guy. He says he could be the water boy as long as they’re winning. Who says that?

[Frenchfred]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ag5CEMndDSw

I'm not sure that his game will translate into the NBA. He doesn't seem to have a fast first step on offense or quick lateral step on defense, his strength is what allows him to win a lot of his matchups. That won't be as much of an advantage in the NBA.

[sfernald]

I really feel like first three picks are gonna be: Sarr, Clingan & Reed in some order. That’s my gut analysis. I think the elite shooting of Reed will push him up there.

so if that’s the case, which do you prefer? Risacher or Castle at #4?

[Mr. Body]

I'm not sure that his game will translate into the NBA. He doesn't seem to have a fast first step on offense or quick lateral step on defense, his strength is what allows him to win a lot of his matchups. That won't be as much of an advantage in the NBA.

You're more or less describing Jalen Williams.

Not the same player, but strength can really matter for a guard.

[John B]

I really feel like first three picks are gonna be: Sarr, Clingan & Reed in some order. That’s my gut analysis. I think the elite shooting of Reed will push him up there.

so if that’s the case, which do you prefer? Risacher or Castle at #4?

If Reed is gone then I’d take Risacher and hope Castle is still available at 8. Posters here are saying teams at 5-7 picks don’t need a PG so any of Castle/Dilly could be available.

[CGD]

We’ve reached an information impasse. Everyone has their pets. That probably won’t change until stuff starts leaking from team workouts.

Not sure how to do it, but would be cool to do daily polls to see what (realistic) combo people prefer, and to see how that changes over time.

[exstatic]

If Reed is gone then I’d take Risacher and hope Castle is still available at 8. Posters here are saying teams at 5-7 picks don’t need a PG so any of Castle/Dilly could be available.

If you’re low or even meh on Castle as a PG, you could still draft him as a wing. He has the size and game for that, too, in which case, he could easily be snapped up at 5,6,7. Other than Topic, who’s a pure play PG, none of the rest could play up a position or two like Castle. Dilly has a much higher chance to fall through a group of teams not needing a PG.

[rascal]

If you’re low or even meh on Castle as a PG, you could still draft him as a wing. He has the size and game for that, too, in which case, he could easily be snapped up at 5,6,7. Other than Topic, who’s a pure play PG, none of the rest could play up a position or two like Castle. Dilly has a much higher chance to fall through a group of teams not needing a PG.

Yes Castle is who you need to draft at 4 as he is not a pure pg and will more likely get drafted from 5-7, can be played at the 1 or 2. And would be great on the Spurs because of that versatility.

[Raven]

Yes Castle is who you need to draft at 4 as he is not a pure pg and will more likely get drafted from 5-7, can be played at the 1 or 2. And would be great on the Spurs because of that versatility.

in that case, why would you draft him at all...

[exstatic]

in that case, why would you draft him at all...

Because he’s multi positional as a worst case, and a jumbo PG in the best case. Either way, he’s a monster defender.

[Bruno]

25 points for Risacher after 3Q.

If you want to be a Spur, don't play too well, Zacharie...

[R. DeMurre]

It's uncanny how nearly identical Bronny James's combine numbers were to Reed Sheppard's.

Lane Agility
Bronny: 10.96
Sheppard: 10.96

Shuttle Run
Bronny: 3.02
Sheppard: 3.03

Three Quarter Sprint
Bronny: 3.09
Sheppard: 3.08

Standing Vertical Leap
Bronny: 32"
Sheppard: 32.5"

Max Vertical Leap
Bronny: 40.5"
Sheppard: 42"

https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-strength-agility?SeasonYear=2024-25&dir=D&sort=MAX_VERTICAL_LEAP


You can argue the same with Wemby and Bol Bol, but the product is not the same.


Exactly. Don’t fall in love with measurables and anthro. They still need to be able to play basketball. Weighting this kind of shit too highly caused guys like SGA and Book to drop to the late lottery, while lesser more athletic candidates were drafted ahead of them.


I certainly wasn't trying to say that Bronny is similar to Sheppard! My point is Bronny's now being praised for his "athletic upside," while Sheppard had an incredibly impactful year plus the athletic upside, which totally goes against the pre-combine takes on him as a great shooter who wasn't necessarily very athletic.

[duncan2150]

25 points for Risacher after 3Q.If you want to be a Spur, don't play too well, Zacharie...He wants to be a hawk lol

[Spursfanfromafar]

I suspect the Hawks are going to select Risacher with the first pick, Wizards - Topic and Rockets - Sarr. That leaves the Spurs to take Reed Sheppard at 4, Pistons - Castle, Hornets - Dillingham, Portland - Holland, and the Spurs will have to choose Buzelis. I doubt any team is mad enough to take a center in the high lottery slots.

[duncan2150]

If sarr is available i will say 90% the wizards will take him.

[Spursfanfromafar]

I certainly wasn't trying to say that Bronny is similar to Sheppard! My point is Bronny's now being praised for his "athletic upside," while Sheppard had an incredibly impactful year plus the athletic upside, which totally goes against the pre-combine takes on him as a great shooter who wasn't necessarily very athletic.

You can't be 6' 1.75'' with a 6'3.25'' wingspan and average nearly a block a game without having insane athleticism

[BatManu20]

Risacher going top-3 confirmed.

1791916910499815834

[RC_Drunkford]

I guess he won‘t fall to 4…

[BackHome]

Nope

[r0drig0lac]

Risacher going top-3 confirmed.

1791916910499815834

https://twitter.com/DraftExpress/status/1791921102777979031

[Frenchfred]

You're more or less describing Jalen Williams.

Not the same player, but strength can really matter for a guard.

if Carter plays PG full time then I don’t have a problem with it but as a SG he will be undersized and not sure that he’ll able to block people from the back as the blow by him. He seems that have great speed but not first step or lateral motion.

Jalen Williams has a 7’2 wingspan that 5” more than Carter. Carter might still be an upgrade over what we have

[R. DeMurre]

Salaun and Risacher sure picked good times to have their best games... these guys both probably added millions of dollars to their future earnings this week.

[exstatic]

I suspect the Hawks are going to select Risacher with the first pick, Wizards - Topic and Rockets - Sarr. That leaves the Spurs to take Reed Sheppard at 4, Pistons - Castle, Hornets - Dillingham, Portland - Holland, and the Spurs will have to choose Buzelis. I doubt any team is mad enough to take a center in the high lottery slots.

You don’t see Sarr as a center? That would be a minority opinion.

[Mr. Body]

if Carter plays PG full time then I don’t have a problem with it but as a SG he will be undersized and not sure that he’ll able to block people from the back as the blow by him. He seems that have great speed but not first step or lateral motion.

Jalen Williams has a 7’2 wingspan that 5” more than Carter. Carter might still be an upgrade over what we have

Williams kinda plays SG now, no? Positions can get confusing and beside the point anyway, but I'd say FTA plays PG for them.

[baseline bum]

in that case, why would you draft him at all...

Because the Spurs need help desperately at every position other than center. Victor is the only core piece on the roster.

[Russ]

You don’t see Sarr as a center? That would be a minority opinion.

With Sarr's mobility and ability to defend the perimeter, he could probably eventually play 3-5.

[exstatic]

With Sarr's mobility and ability to defend the perimeter, he could probably eventually play 3-5.

Not even close to the skills for 4, let alone 3, imo. Defense is only half the game.

[Mugen]

Yeah, I don't think Risacher is gonna be there at 4 now.

[kobyz]

Sarr/Risacher going top 2 is a lock, if we not moving up to get one of them we need at four to go with the high risk high reward Cody Williams trying to make him a mini Kawhi

[r0drig0lac]

Yeah, I don't think Risacher is gonna be there at 4 now.

he would never be there anyway

[Russ]

Not even close to the skills for 4, let alone 3, imo. Defense is only half the game.

For now you may be right, but he's shown some glimpses of "on the move" offensive potential. If he can develop that, his potential is pretty high.

[CGD]

Risacher going top-3 confirmed.

1791916910499815834

How did Salaun do? His team also is in the playoffs no?

[Mugen]

I hope Clingan has great workotus with Washington and the Rockets tbh. Him and Sarr going in the top 3 would be huge for the Spurs.

[CGD]

Yeah, I don't think Risacher is gonna be there at 4 now.

I never thought he would fall to 4. Sarr and ZR are going 1/2, though, order is unclear. The interesting question becomes, what does HOU do at 3? Clingan is getting hyped by the ESPN machine right now, but do they really take him there?

[Mr. Body]

It would be a bit wild for Washington to take Risacher. Not just because... Risacher's ceiling ain't that high. I'm warming to him, but this isn't a big star we're looking at. (I get that none of them are.) But because they're jammed with forwards and he doesn't do anything the team doesn't already do.

He might be the best of them, and no one has a certain future with them, but trying to develop a stand-in-the-corner three point shooter while you have like six forwards of various kinds? How does that work? They need a defensive anchor or they need a unifying point.

[exstatic]

For now you may be right, but he's shown some glimpses of "on the move" offensive potential. If he can develop that, his potential is pretty high.

He needs major development in ball handing and shooting for 3, and shooting at least shooting for a 4.

[CGD]

It would be a bit wild for Washington to take Risacher. Not just because... Risacher's ceiling ain't that high. I'm warming to him, but this isn't a big star we're looking at. (I get that none of them are.) But because they're jammed with forwards and he doesn't do anything the team doesn't already do.

He might be the best of them, and no one has a certain future with them, but trying to develop a stand-in-the-corner three point shooter while you have like six forwards of various kinds? How does that work? They need a defensive anchor or they need a unifying point.

This is the fan debate here in DC. Take Cligan to establish a defensive identify after being shit for so long, or just embrace that they are starting from scratch (Bilal aside) and take the best player/sell off the others.

[Mugen]

I never thought he would fall to 4. Sarr and ZR are going 1/2, though, order is unclear. The interesting question becomes, what does HOU do at 3? Clingan is getting hyped by the ESPN machine right now, but do they really take him there?

I don't buy Risacher to the Wiz tbh. I think they're going to go Clingan or Topic. I think there's a very real chance the Rockets take Risacher at 3 if he's there.

[sfernald]

Let’s not be too in the moment guys. Risacher is #12 in the Kevin O’Connor big board lol.

[sfernald]

Dude at #35 we could pick up this guy. Check out his offense and passing. He’s built like a fuckin bull. We should just draft all fucking playmakers, topic, castle, djurisic to surround Wemby!

https://youtu.be/ROBIsf92NPI?si=b0LPnKDi_TKjB3ti

[duncan2150]

How did Salaun do? His team also is in the playoffs no? Not bad tonight with 14 pts 2 rbs 1 stl 6/11 shooting 2/4 3pts but his team was beaten by nearly 20 His team is the 7th seed and they're playing the second seed Paris.

[Bruno]

Just a little heads-up:
Aside of Risacher and Salaün, another young player is shining in France: Nolan Traoré.

https://x.com/kalidrafts/status/1791253315449126963

He isn't eligible for the 2024 draft since he is born in 2006 but he is a player to keep an eye on for the 2025 draft. It's still unknown where he will play next year (France, NCAA, NBL...).

[BackHome]

Hmmm....those 2025 draft picks looking more and more interesting...

[Limguogolo]

Big match from Risacher, yes. I have rarely seen him score in such different ways. I said I had questions about his shyness, he showed tonight how aggressive he is. It remains to be seen if he doesn't force his nature too much. On the other hand, IQ question: two TOs in the last minutes of a close game.

Question: He said he didn't care where he was in the draft. Considering he's targeting Spurs, is there any way to make it known he wouldn't be happy elsewhere or do teams tend to force players? Selecting work outs (or something else), does it work? And in this case, one of the three teams would then be in a position to force a pick swap to their advantage with the Spurs, right?

(Only watch the end of Salaün's game. A beautiful spin move in transition... And a nice pass to his center. A bit unexpected versatility. And a good % again. You say "raw", Tidjane says "roar".)

[rascal]

in that case, why would you draft him at all...

Because he can play both at the 1 and 2. spurs will like the versatility

[djohn2oo8]

I never thought he would fall to 4. Sarr and ZR are going 1/2, though, order is unclear. The interesting question becomes, what does HOU do at 3? Clingan is getting hyped by the ESPN machine right now, but do they really take him there?
Nope. I think it’s gonna be Risarcher

[Gandalf]

I have a question I’ve wondered about for a while; in the age of instant messaging, etc., why can’t the NBA have teams keep them in the loop on draft-day trades so that they know when a team has traded their pick BEFORE they announce who it is? For example, if the Spurs pick at 4 and then trade #8 and #35 to move up to 6, why don’t they announce ‘this pick has been traded to the Spurs. With the sixth pick, the Spurs select….’

I hate thinking we drafted someone (or someone else drafted the guy we wanted) only to find out about the trade an hour or a day later. I know it’s not that much longer, but we’re already going nuts over this for 40+ days - and it would be easy to do with modern tech. Heck, just have the guy type it on the card / message he gives the commissioner, etc.

[Degoat]

I have a question I’ve wondered about for a while; in the age of instant messaging, etc., why can’t the NBA have teams keep them in the loop on draft-day trades so that they know when a team has traded their pick BEFORE they announce who it is? For example, if the Spurs pick at 4 and then trade #8 and #35 to move up to 6, why don’t they announce ‘this pick has been traded to the Spurs. With the sixth pick, the Spurs select….’

I hate thinking we drafted someone (or someone else drafted the guy we wanted) only to find out about the trade an hour or a day later. I know it’s not that much longer, but we’re already going nuts over this for 40+ days - and it would be easy to do with modern tech. Heck, just have the guy type it on the card / message he gives the commissioner, etc.


What’s going to be even weirder Imo is the draft is going to be a 2 day event now! Round 1 on one day and round 2 the next. Like will that result in more trades?

[exstatic]

I have a question I’ve wondered about for a while; in the age of instant messaging, etc., why can’t the NBA have teams keep them in the loop on draft-day trades so that they know when a team has traded their pick BEFORE they announce who it is? For example, if the Spurs pick at 4 and then trade #8 and #35 to move up to 6, why don’t they announce ‘this pick has been traded to the Spurs. With the sixth pick, the Spurs select….’

I hate thinking we drafted someone (or someone else drafted the guy we wanted) only to find out about the trade an hour or a day later. I know it’s not that much longer, but we’re already going nuts over this for 40+ days - and it would be easy to do with modern tech. Heck, just have the guy type it on the card / message he gives the commissioner, etc.

The NBA knows about the trades,because they have to approve them. The teams ask them not to announce until both teams traded picks are made. It’s not that they don’t want the fans to know, it’s that they don’t want other teams to have intel that team B has traded back, and maybe they jump in and pick a player that team B wanted.

[ChumpDumper]

I have a question I’ve wondered about for a while; in the age of instant messaging, etc., why can’t the NBA have teams keep them in the loop on draft-day trades so that they know when a team has traded their pick BEFORE they announce who it is? For example, if the Spurs pick at 4 and then trade #8 and #35 to move up to 6, why don’t they announce ‘this pick has been traded to the Spurs. With the sixth pick, the Spurs select….’

I hate thinking we drafted someone (or someone else drafted the guy we wanted) only to find out about the trade an hour or a day later. I know it’s not that much longer, but we’re already going nuts over this for 40+ days - and it would be easy to do with modern tech. Heck, just have the guy type it on the card / message he gives the commissioner, etc.

I like the suspense tbh.

https://i.imgur.com/SfVowLN.gif

[Ariel]

Regarding Risacher's availibilty at #4:
- Hawks should pick Sarr.
- Risacher's agent is Doug Neustadt. He was Boris Diaw agent and he currently only has one NBA client with Deni Avdija, who might be Wizards most valuable player. If Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, that is a really bad fit for him, I highly doubt they will force the issue and upset his agent.

It all depends on Houston at #3. Do they want him and is it a team he would like to go? I guess a lot will depend on how they plan to use Amen Thompson. If they want to play him as a point forward, they might go with Reed Sheppard or even Stephon Castle. If they want to play him as a point guard, Risacher makes sense for them. For Risacher's clan, Houston is a team with a good coach that has played well this year, they might like it.
Houston is probably the team with the most ridiculous logjam of forward / wings, assuming Risacher can play 3/4 he'd have to fight for minutes with Jabari Smith Jr, Tari Eason, Cam Whitmore, Dillon Brooks, and Amen Thompson. They usually take BPA so I wouldn't be shocked if they go against the grain and take him if that's how they feel, but Sheppard makes a whole lot more sense IMO.

As for the Spurs at 4, if they learn to shoot probably Buzelis, Holland and Castle have a higher ceiling than Risacher, but that's a big if. Among them Buzelis is probably the one I like the most due to his skill set and ability to create, but Castle has grown on me since his measurements came out, at 6'5.5" barefoot he's legit wing size so he could defend 1-3, that opens up a lot of possibilities. But if the Spurs don't feel confident in them learning to shoot, then I'd go Risacher at 4 and either Dillingham/Sheppard at 8 (whomever is available), then you'd have 2 solid prospects who really fit and spare you from multiple years of heavy investment ending in a complete waste of time and resources.

[Ariel]

This is the fan debate here in DC. Take Cligan to establish a defensive identify after being shit for so long, or just embrace that they are starting from scratch (Bilal aside) and take the best player/sell off the others.
Clingan at 2 is the best possible scenario for the Spurs, since they're unlikely to take him or Sarr that would effectively mean they get to pick one of their top 2 prospects. I don't think that's what's going to happen, but it'd be great.

[buttsR4rebounding]

I have a question I’ve wondered about for a while; in the age of instant messaging, etc., why can’t the NBA have teams keep them in the loop on draft-day trades so that they know when a team has traded their pick BEFORE they announce who it is? For example, if the Spurs pick at 4 and then trade #8 and #35 to move up to 6, why don’t they announce ‘this pick has been traded to the Spurs. With the sixth pick, the Spurs select….’

I hate thinking we drafted someone (or someone else drafted the guy we wanted) only to find out about the trade an hour or a day later. I know it’s not that much longer, but we’re already going nuts over this for 40+ days - and it would be easy to do with modern tech. Heck, just have the guy type it on the card / message he gives the commissioner, etc.

Another reason is the Stepien Rule. If a team makes the pick and then finalizes the trade they are technically trading the rights to the player and not the pick so it would not count against prohibition of trading 2 picks in a row.

[DPG21920]

I like the suspense tbh.

https://i.imgur.com/SfVowLN.gif

Just follow woj and shams on X if you want this lol

[heyheymymy]

The intel that Risacher's agent has only one other client in the NBA, Deni in WSH who also plays the same 3/4 position that Risacher would play. Gotta figure this agent will be wise and not want to cram his only two clients on top of each other when he needs them to shine for his business. If there's anything he can do it's in his best interest though not sure what the dynamic is there and doubt he has much leverage. If he is a good agent he may have to come up with some creative tactics.

Maybe overthinking this angle but it is interesting circumstances nonetheless and if I'm him I'm wary of Risa going WSH

[heyheymymy]

Man, looking at the Hawks salary table they would have to bring Bey back next season and Jalen Johnson is on his last year at 4.5. Hunter has 3 more seasons at 20+ each. Not as locked in as it seems.

Wondering if ATL doesn't view Risacher as the best choice after all because that wing/forward corps is not nearly as set or deep as it looks even though I bet Jalen Johnson is a high priority for the Hawks within reason. ATL may sense more instability at the position(s) than we think and seek to shore up the forward slot with Risacher.

[Raven]

Risacher going top-3 confirmed.

1791916910499815834

damn that sucks... i guess the gig is up

[heyheymymy]

Risacher is just the TIDDY smokes screen

GSG :flag:

[mystargtr34]

Surely the Risacher camp wants to end up on the Spurs, similar to Wemby last year. Well run and stable organisation. He could avoid workouts with the top 3 to try manoeuvre his way to the Spurs but you’d have to think that would be heavily frowned upon by the NBA.

The Hawks are a bit of a mess, so are the Wiz, and the Rockets have a glut of wings with Jabari, Tari, Whitmore, Brooks, Amen (yes he’s a wing).

The Spurs on the other hand have a gaping hole at the 3 spot which Risacher could slot into and make his own. It’s easily the best situation for him out of the Top 4 teams.

[Ignazzz]

2 nd for 4th & 35th?

[Spursfanfromafar]

You don’t see Sarr as a center? That would be a minority opinion.

I meant Clingan. Notice he isn't in my hypothetical top 8

[playblair]

Just a little heads-up:
Aside of Risacher and Salaün, another young player is shining in France: Nolan Traoré.

https://x.com/kalidrafts/status/1791253315449126963

He isn't eligible for the 2024 draft since he is born in 2006 but he is a player to keep an eye on for the 2025 draft. It's still unknown where he will play next year (France, NCAA, NBL...).

the recent plethora of top french prospects in the nba & france winning the world cup is a result of allowing immigration to take over ur country........

[onechance87]

if rissacherr is gone by the 4h pick....Think we should try to trade down to utah picks in 10 and 29 or trade it to new orleans
for there 17 and 21 picks.Draft players like devin carter,missi,and furphy or carrington.And move on from wesley and branham
and bring in some new blood to grow with wemby.

[Bruno]

Big match from Risacher, yes. I have rarely seen him score in such different ways. I said I had questions about his shyness, he showed tonight how aggressive he is. It remains to be seen if he doesn't force his nature too much. On the other hand, IQ question: two TOs in the last minutes of a close game.

A big reason why Risacher has been more aggressive lately is because a key player of his team (Jeremy Morgan) is injured. He has to do more offensively to compensate his loss.



Question: He said he didn't care where he was in the draft. Considering he's targeting Spurs, is there any way to make it known he wouldn't be happy elsewhere or do teams tend to force players? Selecting work outs (or something else), does it work? And in this case, one of the three teams would then be in a position to force a pick swap to their advantage with the Spurs, right?

He can refuse to work-out for some teams and his agent can tell them he doesn't want to play there.

At the end, this is the NBA draft. Teams are in the driver seat and decide who they want to pick. If a top3 team thinks Risacher is the right player for them, they will pick him, even if he doesn't want to play there. I would say a player/agent can have a limited impact on where they are drafted.

A top 3 team can also pick Risacher with the idea to trade him to Spurs for #4 and some assets but it's kinda risky. If Spurs view Risacher only as a slightly better prospect than whoever will be available at #4 (Castle, Buzelis..), they might not be interested in that trade or only offer marginal additional assets like second round picks.

[couchman]

Kobe famously refused to work out for teams and told them he didn’t want to be anywhere except the Lakers and slid all the way to the 13th pick.

[Vienna]

I see it as a very likely scenario, that the Rockets trade the pick. No doubt they will at least explore that route.
considering where they were last season, close to the play offs, and also considering the lack of star power in this draft, it would make a lot of sense to go for an experienced player, even if it‘s a role player.
why not try to sell back the Nets pick for Bridges? even if it means to add more assets. they could offer Green plus the pick, depending on how they value Green. Green had his strong moments this season, but overall he is still the inefficient erratic player he was from day one. at least thats how I see him. All this doesn‘t mean, that a different team wouldn‘t pick Risacher at #3 as well. Just that the question, what player from this class makes sense for the Rockets, might not be the right approach.

[Teamduncan21]

Kobe famously refused to work out for teams and told them he didn’t want to be anywhere except the Lakers and slid all the way to the 13th pick.

And haliburton to kings

[exstatic]

Kobe famously refused to work out for teams and told them he didn’t want to be anywhere except the Lakers and slid all the way to the 13th pick.

That was then, and really only 2 or3 teams understood what he was. I think only NJ and/or Philly had to be scared off.

Agents also used to withhold medicals, but as of this year,you can’t do that anymore, either.

[exstatic]

I see it as a very likely scenario, that the Rockets trade the pick. No doubt they will at least explore that route.
considering where they were last season, close to the play offs, and also considering the lack of star power in this draft, it would make a lot of sense to go for an experienced player, even if it‘s a role player.
why not try to sell back the Nets pick for Bridges? even if it means to add more assets. they could offer Green plus the pick, depending on how they value Green. Green had his strong moments this season, but overall he is still the inefficient erratic player he was from day one. at least thats how I see him. All this doesn‘t mean, that a different team wouldn‘t pick Risacher at #3 as well. Just that the question, what player from this class makes sense for the Rockets, might not be the right approach.

BKN turned down 3 FRPs last summer for Bridges, but they’re going to trade for just the #3 pick in a crap draft? Don’t think so.

[JPB]

Told you all along guys, Risacher my man going #1, top 2 min.

Now it's time to read again Hollinger's "educated" take on Zach :lol You understand why some teams make bad choice in the draft if they listen to guys like Hollinger (specially about foreign players).

I watched the game live yesterday (could only watch parts) and that's kind of player you hope Zach could become. He's usually not the go to guy in his team that has 4 american pllayers, including highest paid players who are supposed to justify their salary. But their main guy was out, so I guess Bourg's coach gave the green light to Zach and asked him to be aggressive.

And man, you like aggressive Risacher. Now he could score 5pt the next game (maybe not) but that could be here his ceiling if he can develop that aggressiveness in the NBA. And why not? Now if he could add some decent playmaking, he could be some "Pippen light" to dare a comparison, not an alpha, but an all around two way, 3&D guy who can be your first option here or there.

Unfortunately, barring trading up spurs can forget him.

[td4mvp2k]

will probably come down to interviews and workouts with risacher if spurs think he's a cant miss and possibly trade up

[Truckules]

Man, looking at the Hawks salary table they would have to bring Bey back next season and Jalen Johnson is on his last year at 4.5. Hunter has 3 more seasons at 20+ each. Not as locked in as it seems.

Wondering if ATL doesn't view Risacher as the best choice after all because that wing/forward corps is not nearly as set or deep as it looks even though I bet Jalen Johnson is a high priority for the Hawks within reason. ATL may sense more instability at the position(s) than we think and seek to shore up the forward slot with Risacher.

Risacher is unquestionably the best choice for Atlanta. If you're a really bad or really good team, you take BPA in the draft, but if you're a middling team like the Hawks, you have to account for need. Otherwise, you might draft a player who doesn't get the minutes to develop behind one of your established players, and your team stays middling since it didn't improve its weakness. Wing is unquestionably the biggest weak spot in ATL, and I'd argue that Risacher is in far better of a position to help them immediately vs Sarr who might take a season or two before he can get major minutes.

[heyheymymy]

Kinda joking around here but I'm salty. Fuck Atlanta. Saw Quinn sidelines at JL Bourg with the headline "Hawks looking at every option" and I took that personally. Fuck sus af statistically anomalous +9 jumps in the lottery to #1 just kinda feels like the league is doing this to SA b/c they think SA bent ATL over on the DJ trade. Which they didn't, DJ is good ATL sucks for not making it work figure it out. Develop Hunter. Go all in with Jalen. I'm not crazy about Risacher but he looks solid and I like a scenario where he falls.

I could see someone like Sarr as the #1 in this draft at least initially being a curse wrapped in a blessing with regard to the ATL future FRPs but if Risacher comes in and does well it blows the whole plan which was going quite well before the lottery win. It's lose-lose b/c if ATL picks a successful Risacher, SA loses the fit and ATL uses the fit to weaken the 2025 2026 2027. FRP/swap values. Now Hawks have leverage. They can try to pry a ransom from SA to trade the right to select which I wouldn't really consider.

Risacher is secretly the sleeper agent CIA Pop paid to get selected by ATL and have another "cold streak" to turn that 2025 ATL FRP into gold lol

Oh well anyway lots of forwards next draft.

[onechance87]

A big reason why Risacher has been more aggressive lately is because a key player of his team (Jeremy Morgan) is injured. He has to do more offensively to compensate his loss.



He can refuse to work-out for some teams and his agent can tell them he doesn't want to play there.

At the end, this is the NBA draft. Teams are in the driver seat and decide who they want to pick. If a top3 team thinks Risacher is the right player for them, they will pick him, even if he doesn't want to play there. I would say a player/agent can have a limited impact on where they are drafted.

A top 3 team can also pick Risacher with the idea to trade him to Spurs for #4 and some assets but it's kinda risky. If Spurs view Risacher only as a slightly better prospect than whoever will be available at #4 (Castle, Buzelis..), they might not be interested in that trade or only offer marginal additional assets like second round picks.

can we do that with clingan...Draft him at 4 if hes there and try to get sum assets for him later.

[Degoat]

No matter what happens, the spurs are in a good spot on draft night, one of Dillingham, Risacher, and Castle will be available at 4. At number 8 it’s house money, I could definitely see a team trying to trade for 8 if Clingan is still available to leap the Grizzlies at 9

[Cardinal]

The spurs easily have the assets to move up to get Risacher if that’s who they really want. The question is really whether he’s unquestionably THE top tier prospect for the spurs that would warrant moving up

[heyheymymy]

good call, knowing SA will walk away with one of Risacher, Castle, Dilly or Sheppard plus a bonus swing on top I feel like fans are in good hands.

[couchman]

Rishacher has been my obvious #1 for a while now and his recent run of good games only confirms that belief.
His combination of size, shooting, and defense is exactly what we need to be drafting.

In my unlikely dream draft we get Risacher at 4 and Reed Sheppard at 8.
That puts high BBIQ players around Wemby who won’t make dumb mistakes, can make plays on defense, and can shoot the rock.

[John B]

Rishacher has been my obvious #1 for a while now and his recent run of good games only confirms that belief.
His combination of size, shooting, and defense is exactly what we need to be drafting.

In my unlikely dream draft we get Risacher at 4 and Reed Sheppard at 8.
That puts high BBIQ players around Wemby who won’t make dumb mistakes, can make plays on defense, and can shoot the rock.

Risacher and Reed would be great, but very unlikely Reed falls to 8th. Risacher and Dilly is a possibility and will be great too. Dilly can shoot the rock too, not as high as Reed but what Dilly can do is break defenses like TP did.

[couchman]

Risacher and Reed would be great, but very unlikely Reed falls to 8th. Risacher and Dilly is a possibility and will be great too. Dilly can shoot the rock too, not as high as Reed but what Dilly can do is break defenses like TP did.

I’d be thrilled with Risacher and Dilly

[JPB]

I would trade up for Risacher tbh.

4 and 8 + a wagon of SRPs.

[Ignazzz]

the recent plethora of top french prospects in the nba & france winning the world cup is a result of allowing immigration to take over ur country........

lets talk about history of USA

[jjspur]

Thinking who the spurs will pick is making my head spin. So many possibilities. I can't help but think that this draft will be like the draft where Keldon and Luka were selected, one decent player and one real dud only with higher stakes. If they go safe on #4, they will reach at 8. If they reach at 4, they will play it safe at #8. This is draft might be like the 2013 draft where the true stars weren't selected until the mid teens. We'll know next month.

[dubross]

https://x.com/tyler_rucker/status/1792231927514296653?s=46&t=R_sceQ4efZTX7nQnRN92Cw

[itzsoweezee]

Kinda joking around here but I'm salty. Fuck Atlanta. Saw Quinn sidelines at JL Bourg with the headline "Hawks looking at every option" and I took that personally. Fuck sus af statistically anomalous +9 jumps in the lottery to #1 just kinda feels like the league is doing this to SA b/c they think SA bent ATL over on the DJ trade. Which they didn't, DJ is good ATL sucks for not making it work figure it out. Develop Hunter. Go all in with Jalen. I'm not crazy about Risacher but he looks solid and I like a scenario where he falls.

I could see someone like Sarr as the #1 in this draft at least initially being a curse wrapped in a blessing with regard to the ATL future FRPs but if Risacher comes in and does well it blows the whole plan which was going quite well before the lottery win. It's lose-lose b/c if ATL picks a successful Risacher, SA loses the fit and ATL uses the fit to weaken the 2025 2026 2027. FRP/swap values. Now Hawks have leverage. They can try to pry a ransom from SA to trade the right to select which I wouldn't really consider.

Risacher is secretly the sleeper agent CIA Pop paid to get selected by ATL and have another "cold streak" to turn that 2025 ATL FRP into gold lol

Oh well anyway lots of forwards next draft.

Rookies very rarely make a positive impact on the court, especially not teenagers. I don’t think there’s any reason to worry about Atlanta’s 2024 selection having any sort of negative impact on the Spurs’ gifted draft pick. That organization is dysfunctional anyway. They are going to fuck things up. The spurs need to hold onto those Atlanta picks at all costs

[rascal]

I like Risacher is having good games. Let someone else draft him.

Hope Atlanta takes him instead of Sarr but unlikely. Want Atlanta to not get better.

[rascal]

I would trade up for Risacher tbh.

4 and 8 + a wagon of SRPs.

No way

Risacher isn't worth both the 4 and 8.

[Mr. Body]

32 points, 11-14 from the field, 4/7 threes, 6/6 free throws, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks.

Who was this? Reed Sheppard dominating Mississippi State and hitting the game winner. After this game, KOC shot him to the top of his board.

Thing is, you expect dominant games from players rated for the top of a draft. They're supposed to do this.

Dalton Knecht had eight games scoring 30 points or more. Many others 20 points or more. Dillingham dropped 35 on a good defensive team in Tennessee.

It's a great showing for Risacher, who has been fairly unimpressive for a while. He's still a guy who doesn't rebound much, has a negative assist/turnover ratio, his shooting percentage has been trending down, and his defensive metrics are actually pretty poor.

I do think the Spurs will take him at 4, but one game shouldn't overly change opinions. It's just more information. Good information, showing flashes, but this is a guy who probably has a lower ceiling than we'd like.

[JPB]

No way

Risacher isn't worth both the 4 and 8.

I'd rather try my chance on a potential versatile, 2 way 6"10 shooting, starting wing, than 2 bench players.

Sarr and Risacher are the only guy with real upside in this draft, I'm not sure any of the others guys will ever start in a competitive team. What the point if it's to add another couple Branhams.

[dbestpro]

I have moved to the Reed Sheppard camp at pick 4 and Holland at 8.

[Mr. Body]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.

Not sure I saw this posted anywhere yet, but Castle's group may be pressing forward with trying to control his landing spot.

A bit to unpack here. First, if true, this boxes out all of Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Memphis, and probably Houston. It indicates that he won't be happy getting stuck in a corner on offense while being POA defender on the other side.

On one level, he's thinking about his career, and standing around watching LaMello Ball do his thing won't get him anywhere. One must wonder how the Spurs might react to this, however. Castle got accolades for being a good soldier at UConn and fitting in. Now we're hearing that he might have been unhappy only facilitating part-time?

What exactly does he mean by wanting to run point? Does he want to be ball-dominant? Or does a Spurs system where all players are required to make decisions and contribute work for him? Can he even run point full time? Would this bother the Spurs? They normally don't like promising anything. Does it make taking Dillingham a problem for him?

Unusual, at least. For top 10 picks he's sort of saying he wants Wizards, Spurs, or Jazz.

[Raven]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.

Not sure I saw this posted anywhere yet, but Castle's group may be pressing forward with trying to control his landing spot.

A bit to unpack here. First, if true, this boxes out all of Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Memphis, and probably Houston. It indicates that he won't be happy getting stuck in a corner on offense while being POA defender on the other side.

On one level, he's thinking about his career, and standing around watching LaMello Ball do his thing won't get him anywhere. One must wonder how the Spurs might react to this, however. Castle got accolades for being a good soldier at UConn and fitting in. Now we're hearing that he might have been unhappy only facilitating part-time?

What exactly does he mean by wanting to run point? Does he want to be ball-dominant? Or does a Spurs system where all players are required to make decisions and contribute work for him? Can he even run point full time? Would this bother the Spurs? They normally don't like promising anything. Does it make taking Dillingham a problem for him?

Unusual, at least. For top 10 picks he's sort of saying he wants Wizards, Spurs, or Jazz.

i'd pass on him if that's true.

[ChumpDumper]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.

Not sure I saw this posted anywhere yet, but Castle's group may be pressing forward with trying to control his landing spot.

A bit to unpack here. First, if true, this boxes out all of Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Memphis, and probably Houston. It indicates that he won't be happy getting stuck in a corner on offense while being POA defender on the other side.

On one level, he's thinking about his career, and standing around watching LaMello Ball do his thing won't get him anywhere. One must wonder how the Spurs might react to this, however. Castle got accolades for being a good soldier at UConn and fitting in. Now we're hearing that he might have been unhappy only facilitating part-time?

What exactly does he mean by wanting to run point? Does he want to be ball-dominant? Or does a Spurs system where all players are required to make decisions and contribute work for him? Can he even run point full time? Would this bother the Spurs? They normally don't like promising anything. Does it make taking Dillingham a problem for him?

Unusual, at least. For top 10 picks he's sort of saying he wants Wizards, Spurs, or Jazz.

The Spurs DO have a starting point guard already in place. Castle can take the job if he's good enough. That's kind of the way things work.

[Mr. Body]

The Spurs DO have a starting point guard already in place. Castle can take the job if he's good enough. That's kind of the way things work.

SpursTalk: Tre Jones sucks. He needs to be yeeted into the sun or traded for a gerbil.

Also SpursTalk: It will be impossible to supplant Tre Jones as starter.

[spurraider21]

The Spurs DO have a starting point guard already in place. Castle can take the job if he's good enough. That's kind of the way things work.
Every team in the league could say this. Think it’s clear what he meant. The spurs have a backup caliber point guard thrust into a starting role

[spurraider21]

SpursTalk: Tre Jones sucks. He needs to be yeeted into the sun or traded for a gerbil.

Also SpursTalk: It will be impossible to supplant Tre Jones as starter.
Actually spurstalk: Tre is a fine backup who was our best starting option last year due a very poor set of options

[Mr. Body]

Every team in the league could say this. Think it’s clear what he meant. The spurs have a backup caliber point guard thrust into a starting role

ChumpDumper thinks the Wizards and Jazz never played a point guard. They were running 4-on-5.

[ChumpDumper]

Every team in the league could say this. Think it’s clear what he meant. The spurs have a backup caliber point guard thrust into a starting roleIs it clear he thinks he can immediately start for the Spurs?

Or do you think he can immediately start at point guard for the Spurs?

[ChumpDumper]

ChumpDumper thinks the Wizards and Jazz never played a point guard. They were running 4-on-5.?

This is a Spurs board. I'm talking about the Spurs.

[PhantomDashCam]

According to HoopsHype, Spurs have (or had) a workout scheduled with Dillon Jones.
Also scouted him several times through the season.

Attended the combine both this year and last year too…

1791226897050882278

[scott]

Risacher had fallen out of my Tier 1, but I think I'm ready to move him back in. My current tiers for the Spurs (and the way to read this is that I would take every player in Tier 1 before I would take any player in Tier 2).

Tier I:

Buzelis
Holland
Dillingham
Risacher
Sheppard
Castle

Tier II:

Carter
Sarr
Clingan
Knecht
Williams

Tier III (have spent less time on this, because it's less relevant to us, though I'm psychologically prepared for us to take two players from this list):

Topic
Tyler Smith
Collier
Salaun
McCain
Filipowski
Walter

[SpursBills]

I think this draft is much more interesting than typical drafts just because there's no perfect prospect out there and you can really see where peoples' biases are. Among prominent draft guys, you can see a huge difference in opinion between guys like Mike gribanov (values productivity, efficiency, and feel, loves Reed Sheppard) vs. Ben pfeifer (values physical tools and potential, so loves Sarr, Holland, and Collier), vs other guys who just purely value production and so have Clingan/Edey top 2.

I've followed deanondraft for a lot of years before he stopped generating content this year (I think hired by a team), so I personally value youth and two way productivity over raw physical tools. Would have probably missed big on Anthony Edwards, but probably would have hit on Franz Wagner and successfully avoided Jalen Green. Will be interesting to see what ends up coming out of this draft.

[TD 21]

Unless Castle's representation is working in cahoots with the Spurs front office (which would only be necessary if they're trying to get him at 8), hopefully they're turned off by this tact and steer clear of him.

[Ariel]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.

Not sure I saw this posted anywhere yet, but Castle's group may be pressing forward with trying to control his landing spot.

A bit to unpack here. First, if true, this boxes out all of Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Memphis, and probably Houston. It indicates that he won't be happy getting stuck in a corner on offense while being POA defender on the other side.

On one level, he's thinking about his career, and standing around watching LaMello Ball do his thing won't get him anywhere. One must wonder how the Spurs might react to this, however. Castle got accolades for being a good soldier at UConn and fitting in. Now we're hearing that he might have been unhappy only facilitating part-time?

What exactly does he mean by wanting to run point? Does he want to be ball-dominant? Or does a Spurs system where all players are required to make decisions and contribute work for him? Can he even run point full time? Would this bother the Spurs? They normally don't like promising anything. Does it make taking Dillingham a problem for him?

Unusual, at least. For top 10 picks he's sort of saying he wants Wizards, Spurs, or Jazz.
This may mean he's more likely to be available at the picks the Spurs have, it's also something of a red flag to me in that he feels entitled to a role without having played a single NBA minute, Will be be happy playing off ball? coming off the bench? What if the Spurs sign a ball dominant guard like Donovan Mitchell? Wemby doesn't complain but he does? I wouldn't like to draft a malcontent that thinks every move the team makes should cater to him. I don't think the Spurs FO will take him if they perceive he has a bad attitude like this, but they will have a chance to get a much better reading on him during the in peson interviews, whereas we can all go by random internet snippets

[mo7888]

Risacher had fallen out of my Tier 1, but I think I'm ready to move him back in. My current tiers for the Spurs (and the way to read this is that I would take every player in Tier 1 before I would take any player in Tier 2).

Tier I:

Buzelis
Holland
Dillingham
Risacher
Sheppard
Castle

Tier II:

Carter
Sarr
Clingan
Knecht
Williams

Tier III (have spent less time on this, because it's less relevant to us, though I'm psychologically prepared for us to take two players from this list):

Topic
Tyler Smith
Collier
Salaun
McCain
Filipowski
Walter

I'd flip Sarr and Holland(based on talent), but other than that it looks good to me..

[CGD]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.

Not sure I saw this posted anywhere yet, but Castle's group may be pressing forward with trying to control his landing spot.

A bit to unpack here. First, if true, this boxes out all of Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Memphis, and probably Houston. It indicates that he won't be happy getting stuck in a corner on offense while being POA defender on the other side.

On one level, he's thinking about his career, and standing around watching LaMello Ball do his thing won't get him anywhere. One must wonder how the Spurs might react to this, however. Castle got accolades for being a good soldier at UConn and fitting in. Now we're hearing that he might have been unhappy only facilitating part-time?

What exactly does he mean by wanting to run point? Does he want to be ball-dominant? Or does a Spurs system where all players are required to make decisions and contribute work for him? Can he even run point full time? Would this bother the Spurs? They normally don't like promising anything. Does it make taking Dillingham a problem for him?

Unusual, at least. For top 10 picks he's sort of saying he wants Wizards, Spurs, or Jazz.

Fascinating.

It’s really a shot at the Hornets, right? For those of us who want Castle, but a wary of taking him at 4, this is a very interesting development.

ZR + Castle draft is probably my preferred pairing at the moment.

[scott]

I'd flip Sarr and Holland(based on talent), but other than that it looks good to me..

This of course is just my opinion, but I don't see it with Sarr. To me, he's about equal as a prospect as Duren or Lively.

With that said, I have Sarr in T2 largely because this is a Spurs board, where I have no use or interest in a C (and I don't think Sarr can be 4, regardless of whether he'd be better at it than Sochan).

[mo7888]

This of course is just my opinion, but I don't see it with Sarr. To me, he's about equal as a prospect as Duren or Lively.

With that said, I have Sarr in T2 largely because this is a Spurs board, where I have no use or interest in a C (and I don't think Sarr can be 4, regardless of whether he'd be better at it than Sochan).

It's all just opinion. For me Holland is the one guy with shooting issues in the top 10 that I am most skeptical of being able to actually learn to shoot well. I think Castle, Topic, and Buzelis have a much better chance of being above average shooters.

[scott]

It's all just opinion. For me Holland is the one guy with shooting issues in the top 10 that I am most skeptical of being able to actually learn to shoot well. I think Castle, Topic, and Buzelis have a much better chance of being above average shooters.

Holland is a big risk for sure, but I don't need him to develop into a shooter as much as Risacher (or Buzelis) for him to reach his upper quartile of outcomes. I like Holland (and Buzelis) because they are the most multi-dimensional wings in my opinion. Holland is definitely a different archetype than Risacher, Buzelis and Williams though.

[Degoat]

The pick & rolls that wemby/Tre would do where Tre sets the screen and rolls to the basket and Wemby facilitates would be nice with Castle if he’s willing to play off the ball lol

[Vienna]

BKN turned down 3 FRPs last summer for Bridges, but they’re going to trade for just the #3 pick in a crap draft? Don’t think so.

they reportedly turnend down the offer because of pick protections. and yes, a #3 pick in a allegedly crap draft is still valued higher than some 20ies in any other draft. If you read, I wrote they could offer Green plus the pick. Rockets already had offered Green for Bridges at the deadline, Nets refused. That was before Green had had the best stretch of his career in March. So yes, Nets would think about such an offer, crap draft or not. And Rockets definitely want Bridges. Understandably, he makes a lot of sense for them.

[exstatic]

they reportedly turnend down the offer because of pick protections. and yes, a #3 pick in a allegedly crap draft is still valued higher than some 20ies in any other draft. If you read, I wrote they could offer Green plus the pick. Rockets already had offered Green for Bridges at the deadline, Nets refused. That was before Green had had the best stretch of his career in March. So yes, Nets would think about such an offer, crap draft or not. And Rockets definitely want Bridges. Understandably, he makes a lot of sense for them.

Green is a ding dong, even if Ime cleaned up his game a bit. Same with DLo. Don’t think teams will totally change their outlook on a player because of one good month.

[Mr. Body]

Marginal players often turn out at the end of the season when pressures are gone and no one is paying attention to them. Green is gonna green again.

[spurraider21]

Is it clear he thinks he can immediately start for the Spurs?

Or do you think he can immediately start at point guard for the Spurs?
Assuming the story is true, i don’t know what teams he has on his list

[spurraider21]

Green is a ding dong, even if Ime cleaned up his game a bit. Same with DLo. Don’t think teams will totally change their outlook on a player because of one good month.
You were saying this about Anthony Edwards not too long ago

[Limguogolo]

32 points, 11-14 from the field, 4/7 threes, 6/6 free throws, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks.


Who was this? Reed Sheppard dominating Mississippi State and hitting the game winner. After this game, KOC shot him to the top of his board.

Thing is, you expect dominant games from players rated for the top of a draft. They're supposed to do this.

Dalton Knecht had eight games scoring 30 points or more. Many others 20 points or more. Dillingham dropped 35 on a good defensive team in Tennessee.

It's a great showing for Risacher, who has been fairly unimpressive for a while. He's still a guy who doesn't rebound much, has a negative assist/turnover ratio, his shooting percentage has been trending down, and his defensive metrics are actually pretty poor.

I do think the Spurs will take him at 4, but one game shouldn't overly change opinions. It's just more information. Good information, showing flashes, but this is a guy who probably has a lower ceiling than we'd like.
Let me guess. When Spurs were champions, you watched all the boxscores without ever watching the matches. You were the first to say that Parker was a bad PG because of his metrics and ultimately, you pushed for Manu to be traded because he was a pit of turnovers?

Some have just explained to you why Risacher was more aggressive and that his metrics were therefore more to his advantage. You may have to think about stopping judging statistics as performances. Otherwise, you might as well draft the best scorer in the Chinese third division with his 38 points per game. Wow. Enter the Metrix.

[C-Dub]

4th pick - Castle
8th pick - Salaun

After this coming season when Blake Wesley contract expires, he will not be resigned by the Spurs. Sochan will eventually be a 6th man for the Spurs and KJ, I hate to say will eventually most likely get traded.

[Mr. Body]

Let me guess. When Spurs were champions, you watched all the boxscores without ever watching the matches. You were the first to say that Parker was a bad PG because of his metrics and ultimately, you pushed for Manu to be traded because he was a pit of turnovers?

Some have just explained to you why Risacher was more aggressive and that his metrics were therefore more to his advantage. You may have to think about stopping judging statistics as performances. Otherwise, you might as well draft the best scorer in the Chinese third division with his 38 points per game. Wow. Enter the Metrix.

The fuck are you talking about.

[Ariel]

If available at 4, I think Spurs have to take Risacher all things considered (profile, age, fit) and that would give you a lot more flexibility to take BPA available at 8.
With that said, I don't think Risacher goes past top 2/3, if Atlanta takes Sarr he goes to Washington or Houston at the latest, but he might even go no. 1 with Sarr going no. 2 to Washington. Since it's pretty likely Sarr and Risacher go top 2 in whatever order, Spurs shouldn't count on either being available at 4 TBH. I would NOT package 4+8 to jump up and get him, I like him but Spurs have multiple needs and he doesn't look like a franchise changing talent. So you'd have 2 options:


Take Buzelis/Castle at 4 and Dillingham/Sheppard at 8
Offer Portland 4 for 7 + 14, and you end up with 7 + 8 + 14. Assuming 4-6 (would be Portland, Detroit, Charlotte) go wings, you can probably still get your pick of Dillingham/Sheppard, take a gamble on Holland/Cody Williams (maybe even Castle if reports are true), and use 14 on whomever you like the most there (Devin Carter, Jared McCain, or even go wild and take Salaun or Edey).

Lots of options, and it isn't really clear which one is better. Letting chips fall where they may could end end up paying the most dividends, TBH.

[spurraider21]

Risacher has been #1 on my board virtually all along. Thought the gap narrowed a lot during that prolonged slump but he’s showing pretty regularly these days why he has consistently been a top 2 prospect in this draft. This last game shouldn’t be the reason you suddenly like him again.

[Uriel]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

[Ariel]

[Sidery]There are whispers of Stephon Castle and his camp potentially not being willing to do pre-draft workouts for teams with starting point guards already in place.
https://swarmandsting.com/posts/stephon-castle-a-popular-pick-for-charlotte-hornets-at-no-6-overall

“I feel my true position his point guard, and I feel the last few months I had to sacrifice for the betterment of the team,” Castle said.

“I feel like I have a pretty underrated skillset in that way,” Castle said. “I feel like I demonstrated that a lot more in high school, because I was on the ball a lot more. Yeah, I feel like I can see the court pretty well and get guys shots right in the pocket. So, I feel like that’s a trait a point guard needs to have in this league. It’s one I think I have.”

“They have a star point guard in Ja Morant,” Castle said of his potential fit with the Grizzlies at No. 9 overall. “I feel like I can fit onto any kind of team. I feel like my game is pretty flexible. I feel like I can play with any kinds of guys in any kind of way. But I also feel like I made that sacrifice in college. Now, we’re talking about my career, and that’s something I take pride in. Now, I really want to play the one. So, that’s just something to think about.”

[Ariel]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.
I absolutely 100% agree with this, this is the first thought that crossed my mind after seeing Wright's face when the Spurs came up at 4.

[ChumpDumper]

Assuming the story is true, i don’t know what teams he has on his listThat's unclear.:tu

[Mr. Body]

I absolutely 100% agree with this, this is the first thought that crossed my mind after seeing Wright's face when the Spurs came up at 4.

He must have thought this was the 2025 draft.

[Eaglenole2002]

Thinking about Holland at 8…

He may never shoot well enough to be the star he was initially billed as, but he can really attack the rim, can handle it a bit, can pass a bit and has potential to be a great defender. If he just improves a little bit as a shooter so teams must honor him, isn’t that a pretty damn good player?

[ginobilized]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

I noticed that too, and concur.
I wonder though if it was disappointment at the pick number more than Houston having a higher pick? Harder to rebuild when division rivals get better picks.

[CGD]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

I think that’s just his face

[Raven]

Thinking about Holland at 8…

He may never shoot well enough to be the star he was initially billed as, but he can really attack the rim, can handle it a bit, can pass a bit and has potential to be a great defender. If he just improves a little bit as a shooter so teams must honor him, isn’t that a pretty damn good player?

i don't see that as being any better than any of the guys you can sign in free agency for the mid level exception tbh...

[Degoat]

I’d love to see a Castle vs Dillingham pre-draft workout against each other lol it’s been mentioned already, but the spurs do need to be adding winners to the team

[Eaglenole2002]

i don't see that as being any better than any of the guys you can sign in free agency for the mid level exception tbh...

Even if that’s the case, that would be fairly good surplus value on a rookie wage scale at pick 8, no?

[Raven]

Even if that’s the case, that would be fairly good surplus value on a rookie wage scale at pick 8, no?

only if you assume he'd be the finished product while on the rookie scale.

[Eaglenole2002]

only if you assume he'd be the finished product while on the rookie scale.
I certainly wouldn’t expect that year 1, but years 3/4 I think it’s a reasonable expectation.

[scott]

I’d love to see a Castle vs Dillingham pre-draft workout against each other lol it’s been mentioned already, but the spurs do need to be adding winners to the team

"Coming this spring to ESPN... every year, the nation's top draft prospects battle it out in a 1-on-1 tournament to earn the right to be Wembanyama's teammate"

[Splits]

Just no on Buzelis. How in the hell does anyone have any confidence he can develop a 3 ball when he shot 27%, and shot 68% from the line? Huge huge risk.

And no on Salaun. Kid is so raw with so many holes in his game, it'd take a minor miracle to keep him from busting.

Hope we trade at least one of the pics for a known quantity, but I'm fine with any of these other scrubs as long as it doesn't include busts Matas and Salaun.

[Uriel]

Watching MPJ right now in the DEN-MIN game, and I’m like, is this who we aspire Risacher to be?

[skin27]

It looks like kyle anderson changed hos shooting form and release. It was different when he was with spurs.

[Mr. Body]

Watching MPJ right now in the DEN-MIN game, and I’m like, is this who we aspire Risacher to be?

Michael Porter Jr is what Risacher would become if he was Michael Porter Jr.

[baseline bum]

Kinda joking around here but I'm salty. Fuck Atlanta. Saw Quinn sidelines at JL Bourg with the headline "Hawks looking at every option" and I took that personally. Fuck sus af statistically anomalous +9 jumps in the lottery to #1 just kinda feels like the league is doing this to SA b/c they think SA bent ATL over on the DJ trade. Which they didn't, DJ is good ATL sucks for not making it work figure it out. Develop Hunter. Go all in with Jalen. I'm not crazy about Risacher but he looks solid and I like a scenario where he falls.

I could see someone like Sarr as the #1 in this draft at least initially being a curse wrapped in a blessing with regard to the ATL future FRPs but if Risacher comes in and does well it blows the whole plan which was going quite well before the lottery win. It's lose-lose b/c if ATL picks a successful Risacher, SA loses the fit and ATL uses the fit to weaken the 2025 2026 2027. FRP/swap values. Now Hawks have leverage. They can try to pry a ransom from SA to trade the right to select which I wouldn't really consider.

Risacher is secretly the sleeper agent CIA Pop paid to get selected by ATL and have another "cold streak" to turn that 2025 ATL FRP into gold lol

Oh well anyway lots of forwards next draft.

Imagine being salty one year after winning the lottery to draft motherfucking Wemby... and still advanced in this lottery anyways and got Toronto's pick too.

[Raven]

Watching MPJ right now in the DEN-MIN game, and I’m like, is this who we aspire Risacher to be?

i don't think so, mpj is way taller and a better shooter.

[ace3g]

Hoops Hype's draft workout tracker list Dillon Jones for the Spurs:

2024 NBA draft workout tracker: Where have prospects gone? | HoopsHype (https://hoopshype.com/lists/2024-draft-workouts-tracker/)

https://x.com/krystenpeek/status/1742728877796212907

https://x.com/_borisberic/status/1791226897050882278

https://x.com/JonChep/status/1792186157314330685

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1790118735358886385

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1762586086029586876

[Mr. Body]

Weber State? When has a great player ever come from Weber State?

[The Truth #6]

With Castle, either he's a dick or actually wants to play for the Spurs. Shouldn't be that hard for the FO to discern. If he wants to play for the Spurs, sounds like, I don't know, a good thing.

[Gandalf]

Yeah, even if it ‘sounds’ bad / demanding, they should be able to figure that out with the workout / interview.

[SouthernFryd]

Wow. Dillon Jones looks like a Better Sochan. He could have actually done some PG duty. Don't see him as PF tho. Maybe SF...or even your big PG if that's what you want. I like what I see. Guy has a great feel for the game.

https://youtu.be/E0O12AKhWd8?si=Ag-dLnH5xWho8pDH

[rascal]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

Just knowing he was in the top 4 and sitting through a commercial break like we all did had him thinking he's in the top 4 and possibly has a chance at 1 or 2 so it was a normal reaction to be disappointed to get 4 with only 4 teams left and the Spurs had the 2nd highest chance at the top pick.

Doesn't mean he wanted a top 3 just wanted the highest pick possible.

[rascal]

With Castle, either he's a dick or actually wants to play for the Spurs. Shouldn't be that hard for the FO to discern. If he wants to play for the Spurs, sounds like, I don't know, a good thing.

He was never said to be a problem with UCONN.

[Seventyniner]

Just knowing he was in the top 4 and sitting through a commercial break like we all did had him thinking he's in the top 4 and possibly has a chance at 1 or 2 so it was a normal reaction to be disappointed to get 4 with only 4 teams left and the Spurs had the 2nd highest chance at the top pick.

Doesn't mean he wanted a top 3 just wanted the highest pick possible.

This does make sense. Conditional on being in the top 4, getting the 4th pick is the worst possible outcome, regardless of whether or not the FO's big board has a clear gap between the top 3 and everyone else.

[exstatic]

Weber State? When has a great player ever come from Weber State?

Damian Lillard.

[Obstructed_View]

Wow. Dillon Jones looks like a Better Sochan. He could have actually done some PG duty. Don't see him as PF tho. Maybe SF...or even your big PG if that's what you want. I like what I see. Guy has a great feel for the game.

https://youtu.be/E0O12AKhWd8?si=Ag-dLnH5xWho8pDH
Does he have ACLs?

[Mr. Body]

Damian Lillard.

Yeah, no fucking shit.

[Uriel]

This does make sense. Conditional on being in the top 4, getting the 4th pick is the worst possible outcome, regardless of whether or not the FO's big board has a clear gap between the top 3 and everyone else.
True. Although that disappointment would’ve been more palpable if the FO’s big board did have a clear gap between the top 3 and everyone else. For instance, one might expect to see more disappointment in Wright’s face if his target had been Risacher, as opposed to, say, Dillingham.

But what do I know? Maybe I’m reading too much into things and their big board is still fluid at this point.

[rascal]

True. Although that disappointment would’ve been more palpable if the FO’s big board did have a clear gap between the top 3 and everyone else. For instance, one might expect to see more disappointment in Wright’s face if his target had been Risacher, as opposed to, say, Dillingham.

But what do I know? Maybe I’m reading too much into things and their big board is still fluid at this point.

Target may have been Sarr so needed a top pick for that

[Mr. Body]

True. Although that disappointment would’ve been more palpable if the FO’s big board did have a clear gap between the top 3 and everyone else. For instance, one might expect to see more disappointment in Wright’s face if his target had been Risacher, as opposed to, say, Dillingham.

But what do I know? Maybe I’m reading too much into things and their big board is still fluid at this point.

The FO hadn't even interviewed or worked any players out. How could they have a top three?

[exstatic]

The FO hadn't even interviewed or worked any players out. How could they have a top three?

So, they just skipped the combine? I think interviews happen there.

[scott]

So, they just skipped the combine? I think interviews happen there.

Combine happens after the lottery though.

[BackHome]

Yeah, no fucking shit.

OMG...I laughed out so loud when I read Exstatic response - But to his defense you did ask..

[tbdog]

Wow. Dillon Jones looks like a Better Sochan. He could have actually done some PG duty. Don't see him as PF tho. Maybe SF...or even your big PG if that's what you want. I like what I see. Guy has a great feel for the game.

https://youtu.be/E0O12AKhWd8?si=Ag-dLnH5xWho8pDH

Unathletic as. Might have a career if he can defend.

[Silverheart80]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

Agree. I think his target was Sarr. And I hope PATFO's #1 target is still Sarr. Come draft night, do what's necesssary (within reason) to go get Sarr. Combination of any players not named Victor plus the #4 is an example of "within reason". Trading back the majority of major draft capital beyond this season is not.

Sarr + Wemby is not Twin Towers 2.0. Sarr is a 1st Team All-Defensive *wing*, when coupled with VW. Begins to transform our atrocious perimeter defense into an eventual strength, even as a rookie. His shot will need to continue to develop. If PATFO is thinking that, we're on the right track, even while everyone continues debating the lesser evils of this year's traditional guard / wing prospects.

Given the current roster, I wish the Spurs were a mediocre guard or wing away from being a decent team. But we're not. If Sarr is a no-go, then Castle is the only other lottery pick option that makes sense. I like his smarts and hustle. Much less impact as a rookie, and much lower overall ceiling than Sarr, but if he stays healthy, he won't be a bust like some of the more popular lottery suspects will be.

[ginobilized]

With the 48th Pick on Day 2 of the NBA Draft the San Antonio Spurs select Dillon Jones, unless he has climbed to #47. Similar build as Cissoko, who went 44th last year. Even a good showing at interviews and workouts won't get him into the 1st round.
Probably even less of a chance than most of this draft at sticking, but, ya never really know.

[heyheymymy]

Imagine being salty one year after winning the lottery to draft motherfucking Wemby... and still advanced in this lottery anyways and got Toronto's pick too.

You gotta admit it's an interesting situation. The team SA owns the draft future of makes a plus nine leap into range of a French player position of need that RC went to watch play and figures to be a target. It's good draft drama.

Not sure what Wemby has to do with it lol I'm extremely grateful for Wemby and thrilled for SAs 2024 draft positions and you won't find any comments from me to the contrary. Weird way to use Wemby's name like that considering his unanimous adoration among the fanbase provides a consensus brigade when otherwise completely irrelevant to the ATL SAS situation and circumstances. HOU is getting their third top 3 pick since 2021 gratitude does not seem to correlate with draft fortune lol

And I agree that ATL 24 #1 may or may not contribute to their ultimate success. "at least initially being a curse wrapped in a blessing" and "a successful Risacher" all qualify the statement adequately imho. It's another interesting tangent and again adds to the drama brewing over the whole situation. Those ATL FRPs are crucial assets to the Spurs future I can't imagine not monitoring this situation closely as a Spurs fan. It's juicy. A plus nine leap, do they hold Risacher hostage, do the Spurs want Risa badly enough to engage, does the 24 #1 ultimately help or hurt the value of their picks we hold. Proper NBA Draft saga and it's entertaining.

[Mr. Body]

OMG...I laughed out so loud when I read Exstatic response - But to his defense you did ask..

A normal person would ask, "Why are they asking this very specific question? Oh, it's probably irony. They're referring to someone specific. That's right, Damian Lillard."

But not ecstatic.

[spurraider21]

Sniff on sniff crime

[sfernald]

A normal person would ask, "Why are they asking this very specific question? Oh, it's probably irony. They're referring to someone specific. That's right, Damian Lillard."

But not ecstatic.


Damn I thought you were talking about Lance Allred the first Mormon polygamist NBA player!

[onechance87]

so yall really dont see clingan and wemby together.Man a defensive presence that would be.

[jesterbobman]

I may or may not be reading too much into this, but you could see a visible look of disappointment in Brian Wright’s face when the Spurs landed at pick #4 after having already been announced to have jumped into the top 4.

This could suggest that his target all along was widely mocked to be in the top 3.

Or, ending up at 4, once you know that you're in the top 4, is the worst possible outcome, and you're disappointed that this portion of the lottery went the worst way possible.

[Vienna]

Some weeks ago I asked if wie are all sleeping on Cody Williams. I still think we do. If Risacher is off the board, and he likely will be, Cody should move up on the Spurs list. At least to pick 8. wouldn‘t be surprised, if they do consider him at 4.
one point about him we didn‘t take into consideration is him as a personalty. This is a super mature, humble, bright and eloquent kid with an obviously strong background from a good family. He will blow away teams with his interviews. Yes, maybe I put to much into those intangibles aspects, but isn‘t it that way: if this draft lacks top tier talent, won‘t teams put even more relevance to those aspects?
put Cody next to, say, Castle or Dillingham in an interview situation……jezzz, that‘s night and day when you listen to those two.

I don‘t see why Timvp called his measurements a letdown and put him so low on his board. I mean, really? Cody measured well for a wing with a great wingspan. The fact that he is pretty thin wasn‘t a secret before the combine. He will put on muscles, like his brother did, you can count on a similar gene pool.

so, IMO if Spurs pick a guard at 4, they will pick Cody at 8, if he is there. (some teams will rank him higher than the mocks do). but again, if Spurs miss out on Risacher, they might pick him at 4, this would of course also push a guard down a spot, and at 8 there will still be several players out of the group of Sheppard, Topic, Castle, Dillingham, McCain.

[Bruno]

Castle seeing himself as a PG and turning down teams that don't need a starting PG confirms that the right move for Spurs is likely to go with a SF at #4 and a PG at #8.

There is a good chance that Castle, Dillingham and Topic are all available at #8.

[CGD]

I like Cody. I think the bummer on the measurements, though, is that he’s clearly still a project. I had hoped he could slot into the 3/4, but right now his weight alone suggests 2/3. He’s not that good a shooter or creator yet to play there. Maybe in 2 years tho, so could be worth the risk.

[Bruno]

Some weeks ago I asked if wie are all sleeping on Cody Williams. I still think we do. If Risacher is off the board, and he likely will be, Cody should move up on the Spurs list.

I really like him too.
My SF ranking for Spurs is :
1) Risacher
2) Cody Williams
3) Buzelis
4) Ron Holland

[rascal]

so yall really dont see clingan and wemby together.Man a defensive presence that would be.

Sarr is the better fit because Sarr can play away from the basket better and has better mobility.

[Russ]

so yall really dont see clingan and wemby together.Man a defensive presence that would be.

Clingan might actually get in Wemby's way. Sarr probably wouldn't.

[Mr. Body]

Some weeks ago I asked if wie are all sleeping on Cody Williams. I still think we do. If Risacher is off the board, and he likely will be, Cody should move up on the Spurs list. At least to pick 8. wouldn‘t be surprised, if they do consider him at 4.
one point about him we didn‘t take into consideration is him as a personalty. This is a super mature, humble, bright and eloquent kid with an obviously strong background from a good family. He will blow away teams with his interviews. Yes, maybe I put to much into those intangibles aspects, but isn‘t it that way: if this draft lacks top tier talent, won‘t teams put even more relevance to those aspects?
put Cody next to, say, Castle or Dillingham in an interview situation……jezzz, that‘s night and day when you listen to those two.

I don‘t see why Timvp called his measurements a letdown and put him so low on his board. I mean, really? Cody measured well for a wing with a great wingspan. The fact that he is pretty thin wasn‘t a secret before the combine. He will put on muscles, like his brother did, you can count on a similar gene pool.

so, IMO if Spurs pick a guard at 4, they will pick Cody at 8, if he is there. (some teams will rank him higher than the mocks do). but again, if Spurs miss out on Risacher, they might pick him at 4, this would of course also push a guard down a spot, and at 8 there will still be several players out of the group of Sheppard, Topic, Castle, Dillingham, McCain.

I can see Cody getting nabbed in the 5-7 range, but feel he will drop. He was overrated largely because of his brother early on, when he was hitting difficult shots on drives and efficient everywhere. There was a lot of claims about how younger brothers are always better than their siblings or whatever. But then his issues became evident. As conference play continued, his efficiency started dropping.

He's tall and lanky, but not exactly fast. The strength may improve, but a lot of skinny dudes play in the NBA. He's sort of Corey Brewer in that regard (just in size, Brewer was much faster). The problem with Williams is he's so slow, deliberate, but also passive.

I have no idea what you mean about interviews. Castle is a bit brusque, like he'd rather not be talking, but has a good family. Dillingham comes off as humble and chatty. Their backgrounds are fine. I'm reminded of a No Ceilings video where the dude was gushing about how Cody Williams was talking with his teammates during shootaround and getting along with them. Like, is that your baseline? That he gets along with teammates? Most players get along with teammates.

[Kevin]

Sarr is the better fit because Sarr can play away from the basket better and has better mobility.

They would be amazing on defense together but they wont fit on offense.

That said if Sarr somehow fell to the 4th pick they should just swing for the fences on him. Its a bad class with no clear cut best talents.

[Mitch Cumsteen]

I can see Cody getting nabbed in the 5-7 range, but feel he will drop. He was overrated largely because of his brother early on, when he was hitting difficult shots on drives and efficient everywhere. There was a lot of claims about how younger brothers are always better than their siblings or whatever. But then his issues became evident. As conference play continued, his efficiency started dropping.

He's tall and lanky, but not exactly fast. The strength may improve, but a lot of skinny dudes play in the NBA. He's sort of Corey Brewer in that regard (just in size, Brewer was much faster). The problem with Williams is he's so slow, deliberate, but also passive.

I have no idea what you mean about interviews. Castle is a bit brusque, like he'd rather not be talking, but has a good family. Dillingham comes off as humble and chatty. Their backgrounds are fine. I'm reminded of a No Ceilings video where the dude was gushing about how Cody Williams was talking with his teammates during shootaround and getting along with them. Like, is that your baseline? That he gets along with teammates? Most players get along with teammates.

It's tough to judge Williams post-injuries. He wasn't the same player and the team dynamic changed while he was out. I think it was a tough spot for a young player, but I respect that he tried to fit in when he returned, arguably to the detriment of his draft stock . As I look at the top-ish of this draft, he's the one prospect that I feel is going to generate the most fomo when he's passed over.

With regard to Castle, he makes a lot of sense for the Spurs regardless of his point guard intentions/demands. This conference looks to be dominated over the next several years by Doncic, SGA and Anthony Edwards. Having a point of attack defender seems like more of a necessity than a luxury. I think if somehow Risarcher makes it to 4, the Spurs won't be able to help themselves, but otherwise Castle is probably the move.

[Ariel]

Some weeks ago I asked if wie are all sleeping on Cody Williams. I still think we do. If Risacher is off the board, and he likely will be, Cody should move up on the Spurs list. At least to pick 8. wouldn‘t be surprised, if they do consider him at 4.
one point about him we didn‘t take into consideration is him as a personalty. This is a super mature, humble, bright and eloquent kid with an obviously strong background from a good family. He will blow away teams with his interviews. Yes, maybe I put to much into those intangibles aspects, but isn‘t it that way: if this draft lacks top tier talent, won‘t teams put even more relevance to those aspects?
put Cody next to, say, Castle or Dillingham in an interview situation……jezzz, that‘s night and day when you listen to those two.

I don‘t see why Timvp called his measurements a letdown and put him so low on his board. I mean, really? Cody measured well for a wing with a great wingspan. The fact that he is pretty thin wasn‘t a secret before the combine. He will put on muscles, like his brother did, you can count on a similar gene pool.

so, IMO if Spurs pick a guard at 4, they will pick Cody at 8, if he is there. (some teams will rank him higher than the mocks do). but again, if Spurs miss out on Risacher, they might pick him at 4, this would of course also push a guard down a spot, and at 8 there will still be several players out of the group of Sheppard, Topic, Castle, Dillingham, McCain.
Cody Williams' stock is mostly based on potential rather than actual production, every time I watched him play I came away really underwhelmed. However, given how flat this draft is, the value of wings and shooting in the modern game, the question marks of his competition and the needs of teams picking top 10, I can see him going anywhere from 5 to 10 (Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Spurs, Memphis, Utah). But I'm really hoping guys like Knecht and Clingan get into the top 7 so that we have more options at 8.

[SpursBig3s]

Dame Lillard...

[Limguogolo]

the recent plethora of top french prospects in the nba & france winning the world cup is a result of allowing immigration to take over ur country........
Allowing immigration in France means multicultural wealth.

(All these players are models not only of integration but also of the vivacity of the French multi-ethnic model despite the far-right outbursts and the constant harassment that certain racialized populations receive from institutions. Why are they models? Because most are mixed race, from multi-ethnic marriages: Parker, Batum, Diaw, Gobert, Wembanyama, Salaün, Risacher, all these players have parents from different cultures, nationalities and colors. Immigration has always been the main asset of healthy societies. Given the way the world is turning and the way in which everyone has for several years sought to withdraw into themselves and only be around people who are similar, I still hope to see within a few years children from mixed marriages who will make the happiness of French culture and will be the standards of the French model of integration abroad. It is a model which also seems to exist in other equally peaceful societies which are used to being multicultural: Canada, Belgium, Germany. Sorry, but I find the Anglo-Saxon models or the models of Catholic countries where everyone stays with their "community" much less enviable and not necessarily subject to less conflict. France seems to be moving towards this model, personally, I prefer the one of which all these aforementioned players are the children.)

[Mr. Body]

Cody Williams' stock is mostly based on potential rather than actual production, every time I watched him play I came away really underwhelmed. However, given how flat this draft is, the value of wings and shooting in the modern game, the question marks of his competition and the needs of teams picking top 10, I can see him going anywhere from 5 to 10 (Detroit, Charlotte, Portland, Spurs, Memphis, Utah). But I'm really hoping guys like Knecht and Clingan get into the top 7 so that we have more options at 8.

Some of my thoughts on Williams are still impacted by my annoyance at the whole "He's gonna be a GOD because he has a BROTHER" narrative. To be much more fair to him, I think he's late lottery in a normal draft and that's not bad for this one. He moves smoothly, knows what to do on the court. If injury really did slow him down, that's a truth to locate. Ultimately he has some Risacher-itis where he doesn't rebound the ball, but he's more of a connector and has some ball-handling ability.

[BatManu20]

1. Sarr - ATL
2. Topic - WAS
3. Risacher - HOU
4. Dillingham - SAT
5. Buzelis - DET
6. Sheppard - CHA
7. Clingan - POR
8. Holland - SAT
9. Castle - MEM
10. Collier - UT

That's my top-10 mock as of right now. Subject to change of course. With Topic's injury not being severe, I think he's going to work out well for teams and Washington desperately needs a PG. Think they end up taking him. There's also rumblings in NBA media circles right now that Dillingham is going to go higher than many are projecting. Spurs may not risk anything and just take him at 4 to be safe.

[Mr. Body]

It's tough to judge Williams post-injuries. He wasn't the same player and the team dynamic changed while he was out. I think it was a tough spot for a young player, but I respect that he tried to fit in when he returned, arguably to the detriment of his draft stock . As I look at the top-ish of this draft, he's the one prospect that I feel is going to generate the most fomo when he's passed over.

With regard to Castle, he makes a lot of sense for the Spurs regardless of his point guard intentions/demands. This conference looks to be dominated over the next several years by Doncic, SGA and Anthony Edwards. Having a point of attack defender seems like more of a necessity than a luxury. I think if somehow Risarcher makes it to 4, the Spurs won't be able to help themselves, but otherwise Castle is probably the move.

Yeah, I think if Risacher is present at 4, there's no way the Spurs can pass, if as much to please Wemby as anything (if he's genuine about liking him). He's probably going to be fine, but we're not talking a whole lot of upside here. If he can actually defend, that changes things, but his metrics are poor. The lack of rebounding is another part of defense that matters, and the starting lineup is already showing issues in that regard. He's a poor passer, which matters in the Spurs' system. He'll be as ineffective as Keldon is in that regard.

Right now my best situation might be Castle-Dillingham.

Risacher-Castle is probably second. Risacher-Dillingham might be third. Back my head keeps saying that losing out on Dillingham will be a big mistake.

[Mr. Body]

1. Sarr - ATL
2. Topic - WAS
3. Risacher - HOU
4. Dillingham - SAT
5. Buzelis - DET
6. Sheppard - CHA
7. Clingan - POR
8. Holland - SAT
9. Castle - MEM
10. Collier - UT

That's my top-10 mock as of right now. Subject to change of course. With Topic's injury not being severe, I think he's going to work out well for teams and Washington desperately needs a PG. Think they end up taking him. There's also rumblings in NBA media circles right now that Dillingham is going to go higher than many are projecting. Spurs may not risk anything and just take him at 4 to be safe.

I'm not surprised if that's true about Dillingham. I think he's going to shred workouts. I wouldn't even be surprised if the supposed Wright grimace during the lottery was due to fear Washington or the Rockets take him first. Dillingham on the Rockets would be a horror show for us.

[AFBlue]

Sheppard seems like a more Spurs-type player than Dillingham. Is the knock that he's not a proven on-ball facilitator?

[AFBlue]

I'm not surprised if that's true about Dillingham. I think he's going to shred workouts. I wouldn't even be surprised if the supposed Wright grimace during the lottery was due to fear Washington or the Rockets take him first. Dillingham on the Rockets would be a horror show for us.

It would be surprising to see Dillingham go that high because his measurable were not good. 165lbs soaking wet does not bode well for enduring the grind of an NBA season and jump in physicality.

[Mr. Body]

It would be surprising to see Dillingham go that high because his measurable were not good. 165lbs soaking wet does not bode well for enduring the grind of an NBA season and jump in physicality.

I guess we'll keep going over this repeatedly, but measurements don't play basketball.

[AFBlue]

I guess we'll keep going over this repeatedly, but measurements don't play basketball.

Name a guy that's effective in the NBA at 165lbs and I'll concede.

[BatManu20]

Name a guy that's effective in the NBA at 165lbs and I'll concede.

Trae Young and Allen Iverson. Ja Morant and Mike Conley weigh 175 lbs. Even Dejounte came into the league at 162 lbs, though he's filled out to 180 since then.

[The Truth #6]

I think you're hoping for 50% of Kyrie's talent, with 0% of his craziness, historically speaking.

[CorrectCrusader]

Sheppards advanced stats are insane. Projects +/- is like 11

[Mr. Body]

I think you're hoping for 50% of Kyrie's talent, with 0% of his craziness, historically speaking.

That's doable.

[Mr. Body]

This is Dillingham vs. Kyrie in college. Kyrie's advanced metrics were through the roof, however he only played 11 games.

https://tankathon.com/players/compare?players=rob-dillingham--kyrie-irving

[sfernald]

Dilly looks like the best natural basketball talent. He will slice and dice up opposing defenses, even nba ones. Kyrie, Iverson, Isiah Thomas (the little one). He will be an amazing offensive force and probably the perfect complement to Wemby.

[Ariel]

Yeah, I think if Risacher is present at 4, there's no way the Spurs can pass, if as much to please Wemby as anything (if he's genuine about liking him). He's probably going to be fine, but we're not talking a whole lot of upside here. If he can actually defend, that changes things, but his metrics are poor. The lack of rebounding is another part of defense that matters, and the starting lineup is already showing issues in that regard. He's a poor passer, which matters in the Spurs' system. He'll be as ineffective as Keldon is in that regard.

Right now my best situation might be Castle-Dillingham.

Risacher-Castle is probably second. Risacher-Dillingham might be third. Back my head keeps saying that losing out on Dillingham will be a big mistake.
I think if you replace Dillingham with Sheppard, thatś probably a very close scenario to what the Spurs FO would actually go for.
Targets at 4 are probably Risacher and then Castle. One of them is very likely available there.
Then at 8 I'd expect them to go with Castle if available, or otherwise Sheppard.
I don't think Dillingham is their cup of tea, even if Risacher / Castle are taken, they probably go Buzelis, Cody Williams, Holland or Salaun before him.
Hope I'm wrong though and they go Risacher / Castle / Buzelis at 4 and Dillingham / Sheppard at 8 (I believe Dillingham will be there).

[BatManu20]

I'm not surprised if that's true about Dillingham. I think he's going to shred workouts. I wouldn't even be surprised if the supposed Wright grimace during the lottery was due to fear Washington or the Rockets take him first. Dillingham on the Rockets would be a horror show for us.

Seen 2 different mocks that were released today that have Dillingham going #3 to Houston. Including this one, that has Clingan going 2 and the Spurs taking Risacher at 4.

https://collegesportswire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nba-mock-draft-lottery-combine-college-basketball/

[scott]

Watching the way Minnesota has brought defensive to the table this year and the crackdown on foul hunting gives me some thought as to a rebalancing of the game moving forward and whether defense will make it's long awaited return. If it does, I continue to be intrigued by the idea of Castle and Holland as a combo *if* (and this is a huge, fairly vital, if) you believe you can deliver some of that Kawhi magic and turn them into shooters (reminder for all, Kawhi was a .250 3P shooter in college who immediately turned into a .375+ shooter for us).

College Stats:

Kawhi .250 3P% .744 FT%
Castle .267 3P% .755 FT%
Holland .240 3P% .757 FT%

Obviously, comparing to Kawhi is a stretch, since he is definitely an anomaly... but if you think there is the shooting talent locked away inside of Castle and Holland, then that would be quite an intriguing pair to add next to Wemby. Devin isn't a great 1-1 defender, but is a decent team defender, and Sochan has shown the 1-1 flashes, just needs to keep his head in the game.

[scott]

Seen 2 different mocks that were released today have him going #3 to Houston. Including this one, that has Clingan going 2 and the Spurs taking Risacher at 4.

https://collegesportswire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nba-mock-draft-lottery-combine-college-basketball/

I think Dillingham makes a lot more sense for Houston that we originally gave credit for. If Amen is a wing, then Dilly would be a very nice fit behind FVV for a year before taking the reigns.

[BatManu20]

I think Dillingham makes a lot more sense for Houston that we originally gave credit for. If Amen is a wing, then Dilly would be a very nice fit behind FVV for a year before taking the reigns.

Seen multiple Rockets reporters say on Twitter that the their Front Office are bullish over Amen being their long-term PG of the future. That would probably negate them taking Dilly if true. But if they see him as more of a wing like they did this season, then suddenly PG becomes a much bigger need for them as FVV only has 1-2 years left on his deal. He's clearly not the long-term solution for them at the PG position. Drafting Dilly would allow him to come off the bench for a year (or two if they pick up FVV's option) before taking over as a full time starter.

[Uriel]

The voting tally for the all-rookie teams just came out. The most interesting part of the result is that it serves as an early judge of peoples’ pre-draft opinions and analyses, from which we can draw useful lessons for this current draft cycle.

For instance, the inclusions of Lively and Jackson are noteworthy. These were two highly touted prospects in high school who went somewhat under the radar during the pre-draft process mostly due to lukewarm college freshman seasons. This shows that we should not entirely discount players due to one mediocre year, especially if they had strong play before that. This lesson applies this year to players like Ron Holland and Isaiah Collier.

It’s also noteworthy that Henderson, who was universally beloved during the pre-draft process—with some even going so far as to say two years ago that he could challenge Wemby for the top overall pick (an idea that is laughable in hindsight)—was excluded entirely from this list. This shows that we should be cautious about buying too much into the hype behind a player, no matter how “surefire” a prospect they might seem at first, and that just because someone’s name is mentioned over and over again in the media doesn’t mean they necessarily deserve that recognition. Here, players like Risacher and Sarr come to mind (not saying these guys will bust; just saying we should be cautious about anointing them just because they’re always mentioned on ESPN).

[Mr. Body]

Seen multiple Rockets reporters say on Twitter that the their Front Office are bullish over Amen being their long-term PG of the future. That would probably negate them taking Dilly if true. But if they see him as more of a wing like they did this season, then suddenly PG becomes a much bigger need for them as FVV only has 1-2 years left on his deal. He's clearly not the long-term solution for them at the PG position. Drafting Dilly would allow him to come off the bench for a year (or two if they pick up FVV's option) before taking over as a full time starter.

Amen and Dillingham could work really well. They can both handle the ball, Amen covers for defensive shortcomings, and Dillingham can get lots of reps on offense. The team has managed to cover for Sengun as it is. Thompson has been more effective as more of a PF in small ball situations. They can be pretty flexible.

Dillingham flat out doesn't work in some team situations, but on the Rockets, well, I don't like that at all.

[Bruno]

Quite a quiet game from Risacher today with 6 points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes.

Next for his team is the semi final against Monaco, who is obviously the heavy favorite.

[DPG21920]

I think Dillingham makes a lot more sense for Houston that we originally gave credit for. If Amen is a wing, then Dilly would be a very nice fit behind FVV for a year before taking the reigns.

This is exactly my thinking. I would still be very happy with one or both of Risacher and Dilly overall, but I’m very intrigued and scared about a Castle/Holland pairing.

[scott]

Quite a quiet game from Risacher today with 6 points and 11 rebounds in 25 minutes.

Next for his team is the semi final against Monaco, who is obviously the heavy favorite.

That rebound total is actually quite encouraging though. What is the game like in France in terms of the physicality on the boards? If I remember correctly, Wemby was a sub 10rpg player for Mets92, right? He obviously turned that into 10.6 rpg his rookie year. If Risacher is a reliable rebounder, that adds another dimension to his game that the Spurs actually are in quite need of (we were in the top half of the league in team rpg, but bottom third in contested reb %)

[Mr. Body]

The voting tally for the all-rookie teams just came out. The most interesting part of the result is that it serves as an early judge of peoples’ pre-draft opinions and analyses, from which we can draw useful lessons for this current draft cycle.

For instance, the inclusions of Lively and Jackson are noteworthy. These were two highly touted prospects in high school who went somewhat under the radar during the pre-draft process mostly due to lukewarm college freshman seasons. This shows that we should not entirely discount players due to one mediocre year, especially if they had strong play before that. This lesson applies this year to players like Ron Holland and Isaiah Collier.

It’s also noteworthy that Henderson, who was universally beloved during the pre-draft process—with some even going so far as to say two years ago that he could challenge Wemby for the top overall pick (an idea that is laughable in hindsight)—was excluded entirely from this list. This shows that we should be cautious about buying too much into the hype behind a player, no matter how “surefire” a prospect they might seem at first, and that just because someone’s name is mentioned over and over again in the media doesn’t mean they necessarily deserve that recognition. Here, players like Risacher and Sarr come to mind (not saying these guys will bust; just saying we should be cautious about anointing them just because they’re always mentioned on ESPN).

Hell, it was common to hear that Scoot Henderson was a generational talent for a long time, so good that he'd easily go number 1 in any other draft. People won't admit saying so, but they did. Frontrunning is very common among fans and professionals alike.

IMO, the high school ranking system is wildly out of whack, you have these self-appointed journalists and a smattering of others ranking players, which then somehow becomes gospel, and these rankings continue having power down the line.

For the All-Rookie teams, it's pretty fascinating to look at the teams throughout history. A lot of clearly great players are tabbed early, but it's not rare for players to fall off a cliff -- especially the second rounders of course. And then there are clear misses even on first teams. OJ Mayo made first team in 2009 over Eric Gordon, Marc Gasol, and Kevin Love. Brandon Jennings made it over James Harden. Landry Fields and the Spurs' own Gary Neal made first team over Paul George. Willy Hernangomez made first team over Jamal Murray, Jalen Brown, and Brand Ingram.

It's not that these were misses. It's that these players were legitimately better as rookies. They just fell apart and went nowhere. It's not hard to believe the same could happen for GG Jackson, as the NBA has time to figure him out.

[AFBlue]

Trae Young and Allen Iverson. Ja Morant and Mike Conley weigh 175 lbs. Even Dejounte came into the league at 162 lbs, though he's filled out to 180 since then.

Tre weighed in at 178 at the draft combine.

[Truckules]

Watching the way Minnesota has brought defensive to the table this year and the crackdown on foul hunting gives me some thought as to a rebalancing of the game moving forward and whether defense will make it's long awaited return. If it does, I continue to be intrigued by the idea of Castle and Holland as a combo *if* (and this is a huge, fairly vital, if) you believe you can deliver some of that Kawhi magic and turn them into shooters (reminder for all, Kawhi was a .250 3P shooter in college who immediately turned into a .375+ shooter for us).

College Stats:

Kawhi .250 3P% .744 FT%
Castle .267 3P% .755 FT%
Holland .240 3P% .757 FT%

Obviously, comparing to Kawhi is a stretch, since he is definitely an anomaly... but if you think there is the shooting talent locked away inside of Castle and Holland, then that would be quite an intriguing pair to add next to Wemby. Devin isn't a great 1-1 defender, but is a decent team defender, and Sochan has shown the 1-1 flashes, just needs to keep his head in the game.

I saw this from a random Hornets journalist about Ron Holland, and it really made me doubt that he can become a good shooter.
https://x.com/british_buzz/status/1792504438923366542
1 out of 5 of your 3s being airballed/bricked means your shot is fricked.

[CGD]

This is Dillingham vs. Kyrie in college. Kyrie's advanced metrics were through the roof, however he only played 11 games.

https://tankathon.com/players/compare?players=rob-dillingham--kyrie-irving

Damn, I wouldn’t have thought Kyrie had 30lbs on Dillingham on their respective drafts. I recall Kryrie being super skinny.