2024 NBA Draft Thread

[jjspur]

Spurs trade #8 & #35 for Giddey and #12. Does OKC hang up the phone? Would the spurs consider that? If Donovan Clingan falls to #8 I think a lot of teams will be calling the spurs

I like your thinking. How about:

Draft Castle at 4 and then trade the #8 & 48 + Branham or Wesley for Giddey and the #12. Honestly OKC will probably field offers for Giddey. I'm fairly sure he could lob some passes to Wemby.
Draft someone like Devin Carter at 12 and someone @ 35 for the G-League. OKC may be done with Giddey, but he would be someone who makes Wemby a better player with his elite passing skills.

[Mal]

Spurs trade #8 & #35 for Giddey and #12. Does OKC hang up the phone? Would the spurs consider that? If Donovan Clingan falls to #8 I think a lot of teams will be calling the spurs

He cant shoot, Spurs need shooting. There is a reason, why OKC should move him for 3&D help

[Dejounte]

The Spurs sent like eight scouts to see Topic a few months ago. I think it’s plain obvious that he’s the guy at 4.

It’s the same reasoning when people saw three guys from the Hawks FO watch Risacher and all of a sudden he’s being mocked #1.

[scott]

i really like this post by SpursBills. He gave a somewhat tangible structure/scheme on how those two picks can impact winning. I expect another to give an alternative structure/scheme to choose from.
SpursBills one of the top posters on this website, tbh. Love reading his/her (sorry, I don't know which) posts.

[SpursBills]

SpursBills (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=18470) one of the top posters on this website, tbh. Love reading his/her (sorry, I don't know which) posts.

Thanks man. Many of my takes might age like milk, but even if they do they can at least be entertaining reads to look back on

[Degoat]

He cant shoot, Spurs need shooting. There is a reason, why OKC should move him for 3&D help

I think Giddey would be a really good 6th man! spurs need talent. If we did what I proposed which is unlikely I know. We get a versatile player maker in Giddey, still have the 4th pick and acquired the 12th pick in the process.

[Pauleta14]

Here's (https://dizzledynasty.substack.com/p/stephon-castle-donovan-clingan-alex) a write up on the UCONN kids

Interesting point about Castle's 3pts % is that he's gotten better during the season and like Wemby for ex, his start worsens a lot his final averages.

[exstatic]

I think Giddey would be a really good 6th man! spurs need talent. If we did what I proposed which is unlikely I know. We get a versatile player maker in Giddey, still have the 4th pick and acquired the 12th pick in the process.

I doubt he’s interested in a sixth man role at 22.

[HankChinaski]

As more time passes. I am leaning more towards Castle as one of our picks.

[Degoat]

I doubt he’s interested in a sixth man role at 22.

It’s better than being benched and talked about as being a liability for his team. Right situation I think he’ll find a good role, spurs know and can convince most how important a 6th man is to a teams success.

[bevo]

Don't want Giddy personally. Shooters, point guard, defenders

[CorrectCrusader]

He had one injury, which he then re-aggravated. It’s the same one that Blake had, an MCL, and if you’re going to have a knee ligament injury, that’s the way to go. If he needs surgery, and we don’t know that, it’s a 3-6 month recovery, not a year like an ACL. And what are these character issues you’re babbling about?

I'm not saying there's any character concerns, it was what other people were talking about.

[Degoat]

I like most of the guys being mentioned Castle, Dillingham, Risacher, Sheppard would all be great picks but damnittt the more and more I watch on Devin Carter the more I like him.

[alfahdlan]

I like most of the guys being mentioned Castle, Dillingham, Risacher, Sheppard would all be great picks but damnittt the more and more I watch on Devin Carter the more I like him.


Him or Holland at 8.

[itzsoweezee]

Him or Holland at 8.

Probably the best athlete in the draft

[mystargtr34]

My big board now for the Spurs.

Wings
1. Risacher
2. Holland
3. Williams
4. Buzelis

Guards
1. Sheppard
2. Castle
3. Dillingham
4. Topic

The only one I think won’t be there at 4 is Risacher. Possibly Sheppard if Rockets take him at 3. So the pick at 4 will prob be between Holland and Castle. I don’t think either drops to 8.

I’d be happy with two wings or one wing and one guard. Only two guard scenario would be if Castle is one of them since he’s a jumbo guard that should be able to play 1/2/3.

[venitian navigator]

After one year of Wemby's evaluation, I'm curiuos on how our fo values this draft...that's full of french or supposed french speaking people (Sarr, Risacher, Salaun, Dadiet, Edey, Ajinca), playmaking or secondary playmaking guys (Topic, Dilly, Castle, Sheppard, Carter) and good shooters (Sheppard, McCain) or supposed 3d wing shooters (Risacher, Buzelis, Holland, Salaun).
Considering we have a good draft capital for future years, that this draft is still considered a weak one so with some teams at least eager to sell their picks, and that Wemby could be a big part of future team roster decisions, I would not be surprised if we explore the chance to add some more first round picks exploiting other teams preferences of problems...
for example:
a) sending Braham to Cleveland for Jerome and the 20th pick seems reasonable (they had interest in him, and considering the Garland/Mitchell problem, probably they will need to add another shooting guard...as of now looks that Mitchell will be re signed as future primary ball handler, and Garland will be traded);
b) if Portland is tired of Ayton (his behavior could take him out of the league once his contract expire in 2 years) we could offer dependable players such as Collins (that they already know and choose) and KJ plus our two seconds for DAA and 7 plus 14 pick.

We could then cut both Jerome and DAA (if he doesn't promise to behave) ND,
at the end of these two deals, we so could have picks:
4
7
8
14
20

not a bad starting point for the 2024/2025 season imho...

[Vienna]

As a note, Castle was hurt earlier in the year and didn't start playing until around December. It took him a bit to start getting noticed again.

that's what I was pointing out about Cody Williams as well, who suffered three injuries during his season. might be even some kind of good luck for the Spurs, because if he had a healthy season and had played more games like those stretches in November and January, he might nor be an option at 8. he clearly wasn't healthy after the ankle sprain, when he came back to play the conference tournament and was downgraded to a bench role. I would blame this to the coaches, if he had shut down the season in February, he would likely be ranked higher, because he had shown enough potential in the 16 or so games before. but of course teams will consider the circumstances and some will have him higher. I can see him going to Detroit at 5. he would make a lot of sense for them. but it would be great, if the Spurs would have him as an option at 8, even if they finally take someone else.

[Ignazzz]

After one year of Wemby's evaluation, I'm curiuos on how our fo values this draft...that's full of french or supposed french speaking people (Sarr, Risacher, Salaun, Dadiet, Edey, Ajinca), playmaking or secondary playmaking guys (Topic, Dilly, Castle, Sheppard, Carter) and good shooters (Sheppard, McCain) or supposed 3d wing shooters (Risacher, Buzelis, Holland, Salaun).
Considering we have a good draft capital for future years, that this draft is still considered a weak one so with some teams at least eager to sell their picks, and that Wemby could be a big part of future team roster decisions, I would not be surprised if we explore the chance to add some more first round picks exploiting other teams preferences of problems...
for example:
a) sending Braham to Cleveland for Jerome and the 20th pick seems reasonable (they had interest in him, and considering the Garland/Mitchell problem, probably they will need to add another shooting guard...as of now looks that Mitchell will be re signed as future primary ball handler, and Garland will be traded);
b) if Portland is tired of Ayton (his behavior could take him out of the league once his contract expire in 2 years) we could offer dependable players such as Collins (that they already know and choose) and KJ plus our two seconds for DAA and 7 plus 14 pick.

We could then cut both Jerome and DAA (if he doesn't promise to behave) ND,
at the end of these two deals, we so could have picks:
4
7
8
14
20

not a bad starting point for the 2024/2025 season imho...

7 picks with 2 rds?

[venitian navigator]

No seconda! So just five firsts...

[onechance87]

stephon castle and cody williams will be the picks imo.

[kobyz]

With all the prospects in play for #4 having questions marks I'm set on drafting Cody Williams and gambling on his enormous potential, and then hope one of the reed or deel fall to 8

[mystargtr34]

stephon castle and cody williams will be the picks imo.

I wouldn’t be mad with that. And I think it’s a very likely scenario.

I would say both will be available at 4 (Castle) and 8 (Williams). Although I think the Blazers need a wing badly so they could take Williams, but I think they go Holland above him.

[Vienna]

I wouldn’t be mad with that. And I think it’s a very likely scenario.

I would say both will be available at 4 (Castle) and 8 (Williams). Although I think the Blazers need a wing badly so they could take Williams, but I think they go Holland above him.

the intriguing part of this scenario is the upside on defense. if Castle did work as a 1 and Cody at 3 bulks up, combined with Vassell at 2 and Sochan at 4, you can switch everything.

[cutewizard]

Meanwhile, he seems to be available

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


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xf6SHcuiEoI

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV2uD20c52g

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7YQD0ELH-s

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ji8lQkju3A

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kr3ZBGOrT2s

[cutewizard]

We should get White, then Anunnoby

[CGD]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kr3ZBGOrT2s

In a division with Wemby, it would be smart for Houston to grab this guy.

Honestly, Washington would really benefit from having a defensive anchor like this too.

[CGD]

Any new gossip in this latest Givony piece? I’m behind the pay wall.

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects

[exstatic]

In a division with Wemby, it would be smart for Houston to grab this guy.

Honestly, Washington would really benefit from having a defensive anchor like this too.

Who Houston plays in the post is inconsequential. Nobody is bothering Wemby at all. They might as roll with Sengün,and have the scoring and rebounding, at least. That being said,I would love for Clingan and Sarr to come off the board in the top 3. That helps us a lot in getting to our needs.

[CGD]

Cody is not getting much play on this board, but listening to this interview I can see the spurs absolutely falling on love with him. Maturity and bbiq super high.

https://youtu.be/T_FAOLXACtI?feature=shared

[heyheymymy]

Any new gossip in this latest Givony piece? I’m behind the pay wall.

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects

free view link

bdqjG (https://archive.ph/bdqjG)

[mystargtr34]

Something interesting from Givony..

“Risacher is expected to be selective with his pre-draft visits among NBA suitors once he finally does make his way to the States.”

He could tell the Hawks, Wizards and Rockets to get fucked and refuse workouts. Although I imagine he would want the prestige of going number 1 overall so I doubt he refuses a Hawks workout.

[Vienna]

Cody is not getting much play on this board, but listening to this interview I can see the spurs absolutely falling on love with him. Maturity and bbiq super high.

https://youtu.be/T_FAOLXACtI?feature=shared

that's what I was talking about, when I said he is in another league regarding maturity, eloquence and self-reflection (if that's the right word in english). Cody and McCain, those two will very likely win teams with their interviews.

[CGD]

free view link

bdqjG (https://archive.ph/bdqjG)

Gracias

[Ariel]

Something interesting from Givony..

“Risacher is expected to be selective with his pre-draft visits among NBA suitors once he finally does make his way to the States.”

He could tell the Hawks, Wizards and Rockets to get fucked and refuse workouts. Although I imagine he would want the prestige of going number 1 overall so I doubt he refuses a Hawks workout.
I don't think he refuses anything unless he has a guarantee from his preferred destination, he probably would fit really well in Atlanta, and in Washington he'd get plenty of time to develop. His most questionable fit would be in Houston, they're overloaded with wings, but they're a BPA kind of franchise so I'm wouldn't be shocked if they go with him or even Castle. Nightmarish scenario for the Spurs: Sarr, Risacher, Castle go top 3 (in some combination), the Spurs don't want to go small at PG and start reaching for Salaun and Kyshawn George types.

[BatManu20]

Risacher can refuse workouts all he wants. If the Wizards want him at 2, they're going to take him.

[Ariel]

Risacher can refuse workouts all he wants. If the Wizards want him at 2, they're going to take him.
I don't think it's all black and white. If they have him leaps and bounds above everyone else, sure. Otherwise they may take someone else or, at the very least, be more willing to listen to offers.

One scenario: suppose Atlanta goes Sarr, Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, and they're high on Topic or someone else projected to be available at 8. Do the Spurs pay a premium to move up from 8 to 2, so that they could take their (presumptively) preferred 2 guys in Risacher and Castle? What would you be willing to do to make that happen? I might add a future protected first (say, Spurs '29 lottery protected) plus maybe the Charlotte pick and seconds, if I knew the Spurs would pass on Dillingham at 8 (which I believe to be the case).

EDIT: there's one aspect that I wasn't clear about: since both teams would target the same player with the no. 2 pick, Washington wouldn't be required to take any risks and could safely take their guy at 2 (Risacher) while the Spurs take theirs at 4 (Castle), deferring the decision on whether to accept the Spurs offer when they're on the clock at 8. If Washington likes what's available at that time (Topic, Dillingham, whomever) then they can go ahead and make the trade, otherwise they reject it and the Spurs go ahead with their selection as planned. So it's a pretty safe scenario that wouldn't impose additional costs or risks to either team.

[fafo]

13. Devin Carter (https://archive.is/o/bdqjG/https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433188/devin-carter) | PG/SG | Providence (https://archive.is/o/bdqjG/https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2507/providence-friars)

6-4 | Age: 22.1 | Previously ranked: 17
Carter has significant momentum as he's in the midst of an outstanding month that has him knocking on the door of the draft lottery. He measured well and tested as arguably the best athlete in this draft at the combine, posting historic figures that included a 42-inch vertical leap and shuttle and sprint times that put him in elite company. Carter also had one of the best pro day showings we saw in either Chicago or Los Angeles, putting his Olympic-level athletic ability on full display and knocking down 30-foot pull-up jumpers with ease, as he did all season at Providence.
Teams looking for immediate backcourt help, starting with the San Antonio Spurs (https://archive.is/o/bdqjG/https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs) at No. 8 and the Memphis Grizzlies (https://archive.is/o/bdqjG/https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mem/memphis-grizzlies) at No. 9 have significant interest in Carter, as his draft stock may continue to climb in the next month as he gets into private workouts. -- Givony

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects

[Ariel]

^ If the Spurs somehow took Risacher at 4 and Castle wasn't available at 8, I wouldn't be shocked at all if they went Devin Carter. In fact he's probably more their cup of tea than Dillingham.

[rascal]

We should get White, then Anunnoby

Boston is going to win th NBA title.

White isn't going anywhere.

[Eaglenole2002]

Who would be a good comp for Carter? George Hill?

[BatManu20]

This kid is gonna be a stud tbh. Him being this good thing young is impressive. Also has great size for the position at 6’4+, and is said to be a high-character kid. Much prefer him to any of the PG’s in this draft tbh. Guarantee he’s all over the Spurs’ radar.

1794018131339354584

[rascal]

I don't think it's all black and white. If they have him leaps and bounds above everyone else, sure. Otherwise they may take someone else or, at the very least, be more willing to listen to offers. One scenario: suppose Atlanta goes Sarr, Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, and they're high on Topic or someone else projected to be available at 8. Do the Spurs pay a premium to move up from 8 to 2, so that they could take their (presumptively) preferred 2 guys in Risacher and Castle? What would you be willing to do to make that happen? I might add a future protected first (say, Spurs '29 lottery protected) plus maybe the Charlotte pick and seconds, if I knew the Spurs would pass on Dillingham at 8 (which I believe to be the case).

How about a san Antonio unprotected 25 pick and the charlotte pick (which doesn't hold much value) and the seconds? It's going to take more than what you want to trade to get that 2nd overall pick.

You're going to have to part with something you value to make it worthwhile for the other team.

[BatManu20]

Think people need to let the dream of Risacher go tbh. It’s not happening. Barring a drastic change, he’s going to be a Wizard.

[fafo]

Who would be a good comp for Carter? George Hill?
The Ringer compares Carter to Bruce Brown which I think is a pretty decent comparison, though Carter has shown through this past year plus the combine that he has a more promising shot. I see George Hill too, I didn't think of him at all but that's a good call on your part. I think if everything hits right for him, he can be in the conversation among guys like Derrick White and Jrue Holiday. The things that stick out to me most is that he's very tough, very willing to find his flow in the offense, and doesn't force anything.

[rascal]

This kid is gonna be a stud tbh. Him being this good thing young is impressive. Also has great size for the position at 6’4+, and is said to be a high-character kid. Much prefer him to any of the PG’s in this draft tbh. Guarantee he’s all over the Spurs’ radar.

1794018131339354584

That's why Castle makes sense for the Spurs. If they can land this kid next year. Castle, Traore and Vassell would make a solid three guard rotation backcourt.

[Ariel]

How about a san Antonio unprotected 25 pick and the charlotte pick (which doesn't hold much value) and the seconds? It's going to take more than what you want to trade to get that 2nd overall pick.

You're going to have to part with something you value to make it worthwhile for the other team.
This isn't Washington selling the pick but trading down to 8 so that they'd be getting their guy (Topic, Dillingham, whichever PG they prefer) at 8 (unlikely to be taken by anyone 3-7) and still add a future first (protected) and another pick that has a slim chance of conveying in the first round but should at least be 2 good SPRs. The premium there isn't a future unprotected first from a bad team in a good draft, that's preposterous and a non starter. If that's what Washington is looking for, Spurs obviously do nothing. But wouldn't hurt to ask IMO.

[rascal]

This isn't Washington selling the pick but trading down to 8 so that they'd be getting their guy (Topic, Dillingham, whichever PG they prefer) at 8 (unlikely to be taken by anyone 3-7) and still add a future first (protected) and another pick that has a slim chance of conveying in the first round but should at least be 2 good SPRs. The premium there isn't a future unprotected first from a bad team in a good draft, that's preposterous and a non starter. If that's what Washington is looking for, Spurs obviously do nothing. But wouldn't hurt to ask IMO.

I missed you including the 8th pick in the first offer. That makes it more fair but wash may just want that unprotected 25 first for the overall 2 this year. You do that strainght up?

[heyheymymy]

I don't think it's all black and white. If they have him leaps and bounds above everyone else, sure. Otherwise they may take someone else or, at the very least, be more willing to listen to offers. One scenario: suppose Atlanta goes Sarr, Risacher doesn't want to go to Washington, and they're high on Topic or someone else projected to be available at 8. Do the Spurs pay a premium to move up from 8 to 2, so that they could take their (presumptively) preferred 2 guys in Risacher and Castle? What would you be willing to do to make that happen? I might add a future protected first (say, Spurs '29 lottery protected) plus maybe the Charlotte pick and seconds, if I knew the Spurs would pass on Dillingham at 8 (which I believe to be the case).

Good thoughts. Risacher is gone by 4 but does it seem like in a very general way within the top 3 the fit for Risacher gets worse and worse from ATL to WSH to HOU?

If Risacher slips, each slot he potentially slips starts to make it slightly more likely he falls to 4 miraculously. Not saying HOU won't take him or WSH won't just kinda interesting how each slot he survives sends him to a team with a potentially slightly even trickier fit for him conceivably with the last stand, HOU, having the most player type logjam with guys who have the most commitment cost sunken into them by the team. ATL can cut bait with Bey, Hunter possibly means nothing to them once the 3 years are off books. WSH has Deni and Kuz as investment pieces yes but not like HOU with a high draft value forward like JSJ and expensive FA (3x ~20MMper) in Dillon. Even projects selected in the teens/twenty like Eason and Whitmore they may feel an obligation to cultivate first before adding anyone else/new.

Barring trades there might be some sunk cost fallacy in play as teams decide if Risacher is good enough to tell guys like Deni or Brooks to take the back seat. But it sounds like most of these names even Kuz could be divorced for a true BPA "upgrade" or the logjam may be overstated by outside observers where within the clubs they think they can make it work with their system concept.

[TD 21]

Givony: "Spurs and Grizzlies have significant interest in Carter."

2024 NBA draft rankings - Jonathan Givony's top 100 prospects - ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects)

[Ariel]

Givony: "Spurs and Grizzlies have significant interest in Carter."

2024 NBA draft rankings - Jonathan Givony's top 100 prospects - ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects)
Plan B for Castle? Surely they're not thinking of taking both.

[rascal]

Good thoughts. Risacher is gone by 4 but does it seem like in a very general way within the top 3 the fit for Risacher gets worse and worse from ATL to WSH to HOU?

If Risacher slips, each slot he potentially slips starts to make it slightly more likely he falls to 4 miraculously. Not saying HOU won't take him or WSH won't just kinda interesting how each slot he survives sends him to a team with a potentially slightly even trickier fit for him conceivably with the last stand, HOU, having the most player type logjam with guys who have the most commitment cost sunken into them by the team. ATL can cut bait with Bey, Hunter possibly means nothing to them once the 3 years are off books. WSH has Deni and Kuz as investment pieces yes but not like HOU with a high draft value forward like JSJ and expensive FA (3x ~20MMper) in Dillon.

Barring trades there might be some sunk cost fallacy in play as teams decide if Risacher is good enough to tell guys like Deni or Brooks to take the back seat. But it sounds like most of these names even Kuz could be divorced for a true BPA "upgrade" or the logjam may be overstated by outside observers where within the clubs they think they can make it work with their system concept.

Let Risacher go this year. I want him drafted in the top 3 so Castle falls to 4.

Spurs need to lock in Castle, that solid defender out of this year's draft and get the upside superstar Sf in next year's draft. The Spurs will get a better SF in next year's draft than Risacher.

[mo7888]

Let Risacher go this year. I want him drafted in the top 3 so Castle falls to 4.

Spurs need to lock in Castle, that solid defender out of this year's draft and get the upside superstar Sf in next year's draft. The Spurs will get a better SF in next year's draft than Risacher.

They can get a better PG in next year's draft than Castle as well. That's just where it is. I'm also pretty high on Castle and would have no problem taking him at #4, so it isn't Castle bias or anything..

[rascal]

They can get a better PG in next year's draft than Castle as well. That's just where it is. I'm also pretty high on Castle and would have no problem taking him at #4, so it isn't Castle bias or anything..

No, there aren't as many options for solid defender PG or top PG than there are for SF in next year's draft.

[heyheymymy]

I'm high on Castle as well it's the best most realistically avail option at 4 imho as of right now

[mo7888]

No, there aren't as many options for solid defender PG or top PG than there are for SF in next year's draft.

There are more top forwards than PG's in next year's draft for sure, but there are better forwards and PG's in next year's draft than this one. Castle isn't sniffing top 10 next year and there are at least 3 PG's better than him in that draft. Full disclosure- there are probably at least 5 or 6 forwards better than Risacher in next year's draft (at a minimum).

[rascal]

There are more top forwards than PG's in next year's draft for sure, but there are better forwards and PG's in next year's draft than this one. Castle isn't sniffing top 10 next year and there are at least 3 PG's better than him in that draft. Full disclosure- there are probably at least 5 or 6 forwards better than Risacher in next year's draft (at a minimum).

But drafting Castle this year doesn't prevent you from grabbing a top pG next year as Castle can get minutes at the 1 or 2 and work well in a three guard rotation.

Are there really better defending PGs in the top ten next year and why burn a draft pick on that with Castle there this year and as you said there more better all star upside options at SF than Risacher in next year's drafft.

Drafting Castle this year makes the most sense for the roster build moving forward.

[TD 21]

Plan B for Castle? Surely they're not thinking of taking both.

More than likely.

Interestingly, Clingan has "fans among the Hawks constituency". If he gets to 4 and the Hawks prefer Risacher to Sarr, the Spurs could offer a package around 4 for Murray.

[BacktoBasics]

More than likely.

Interestingly, Clingan has "fans among the Hawks constituency". If he gets to 4 and the Hawks prefer Risacher to Sarr, the Spurs could offer a package around 4 for Murray.

That would be a respectable move as long as we maintain 8. That would round things out a bit more for us and address the biggest weakness with something better than we could ever draft.

[kobyz]

Who would be a good comp for Carter? George Hill?

Devin Harris

[RC_Drunkford]

By the way are there any good shotblockers mocked in the 2nd round? If we address SF and PG with #4 and #8 we should look to draft a C at #35. All we really need there is a rebounding shotblocker who can roll to the rim and is somewhat mobile to replace Collins long term.

[Mr. Body]

Draft Express is confirming that Castle will not likely work out for teams with standing point guards. In the top 10, that seems to be Washington, San Antonio, Utah.

[Mr. Body]

Stephen Castle to the Jones family: "Fuck you."

[mo7888]

But drafting Castle this year doesn't prevent you from grabbing a top pG next year as Castle can get minutes at the 1 or 2 and work well in a three guard rotation.

Are there really better defending PGs in the top ten next year and why burn a draft pick on that with Castle there this year and as you said there more better all star upside options at SF than Risacher in next year's drafft.

Drafting Castle this year makes the most sense for the roster build moving forward.

Again, I'm not against taking Castle this year. I'm just saying that the logic behind "Don't take Risacher because there are better forwards next year" is flawed and can be applied to the PG position as well. For me, I'm not letting anything re: next year's draft limit who I am choosing, by position, this year. If it's Risacher, then great...of it's Castle, then that's great too...

[exstatic]

Stephen Castle to the Jones family: "Fuck you."

In fairness to Castle,the jones brothers have played a combined 852 games, and started 285 of them. Neither can really be considered anything other than a stopgap solution.

[Mr. Body]

Again, I'm not against taking Castle this year. I'm just saying that the logic behind "Don't take Risacher because there are better forwards next year" is flawed and can be applied to the PG position as well. For me, I'm not letting anything re: next year's draft limit who I am choosing, by position, this year. If it's Risacher, then great...of it's Castle, then that's great too...

I agree that next year shouldn't factor into anything. No one knows who is actually going to be good next year.

However, getting superior defensive guards can be difficult. Often the top PGs in drafts are the Isaiah Collier types, ball-dominant, a skillset the Spurs don't need. Castle can play off-ball, his usage was low in college, and it's rare to find a plus defender. I ignore the "defense is for suckers" brigade here.

Risacher, then. I have very little doubt you can get a better wing at any time. Remember that this is a guy who was mocked in the teens before the season -- and then nearly everyone before him collapsed. He still should be in the teens. I say that in all honesty. Last year, he would have been drafted around the Gradey Dick spot -- and Gradey Dick is better.

Castle can do multiple things well and has many avenues to success. If Risacher's shooting doesn't translate - and I remind you that he shoots .700 from the line - he's done. He does nothing else. You just drafted a high lottery block of wood.

[Ariel]

Draft Express is confirming that Castle will not likely work out for teams with standing point guards. In the top 10, that seems to be Washington, San Antonio, Utah.
Worst case scenario: Atlanta takes Risacher, Washington falls in love with Castle, and Houston takes Sarr who falls into their lap. That would probably put the Spurs in a tough spot, provided they aren't fans of Dillingham as I believe to be the case.

[Knoxxx]

Castle can guard the 1-3 and Sochan the 2-4 so that is a nice way to deal with teams with two scoring wings and or guards. Castle/Sochan also a nice counter our main obstacle, large PGs Doncic and SGA.

Agreed that if a nice PF is there at 35 that could be worth a shot. It’s a need we have to address in 25 otherwise.

[Knoxxx]

Worst case scenario: Atlanta takes Risacher, Washington falls in love with Castle, and Houston takes Sarr who falls into their lap. That would probably put the Spurs in a tough spot, provided they aren't fans of Dillingham as I believe to be the case.

I agree that Clingan dropping all the way to 9 even is the worst case we need to be thinking about. What we wouldn’t want is Sheppard AND Dilly. Though we most likely have C Williams and Knecht as bail out options still at 8.

[mo7888]

I agree that next year shouldn't factor into anything. No one knows who is actually going to be good next year.

However, getting superior defensive guards can be difficult. Often the top PGs in drafts are the Isaiah Collier types, ball-dominant, a skillset the Spurs don't need. Castle can play off-ball, his usage was low in college, and it's rare to find a plus defender. I ignore the "defense is for suckers" brigade here.

Risacher, then. I have very little doubt you can get a better wing at any time. Remember that this is a guy who was mocked in the teens before the season -- and then nearly everyone before him collapsed. He still should be in the teens. I say that in all honesty. Last year, he would have been drafted around the Gradey Dick spot -- and Gradey Dick is better.

Castle can do multiple things well and has many avenues to success. If Risacher's shooting doesn't translate - and I remind you that he shoots .700 from the line - he's done. He does nothing else. You just drafted a high lottery block of wood.

Castle is firmly in my mix at #4. I've been high on him all year to varying degrees. He and Sheppard are neck and neck for me as 'possible' PG's on this level, albeit drastically different archetypes. Overall he's 4th or 5th on my Spurs Board for all the reasons you just listed. As for Risacher, we see that differently. I don't know if he'll be better than Gradey, but I see Gradey as a SG and Risacher as a combo forward (I also see Matas as a combo forward), so they are hard to directly compare.

I also don't think the Risacher vs Castle debate at 4 is really relevant because Risacher won't be there and Castle will. So if we're picking at 4 it's a race between Castle, Matas, and Sheppard for me.

[spurraider21]

i was interested in castle when i thought he'd be a SG/SF type. im much less interested in him as a point guard

[scott]

Again, I'm not against taking Castle this year. I'm just saying that the logic behind "Don't take Risacher because there are better forwards next year" is flawed and can be applied to the PG position as well. For me, I'm not letting anything re: next year's draft limit who I am choosing, by position, this year. If it's Risacher, then great...of it's Castle, then that's great too...

Yeah, next year's draft shouldn't really play into the strategy of this one at all. Some of these prospects may (and probably will) fizzle out, and you have no clue where you'll be picking. You stick with your board this year and deal with next year when the time comes.

[BackHome]

Givony: "Spurs and Grizzlies have significant interest in Carter."

2024 NBA draft rankings - Jonathan Givony's top 100 prospects - ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/38788364/2024-nba-draft-rankings-espn-top-25-prospects)

Glad people are finally really looking at this kid as I think he is one of the top 4 best defenders regarding Guards/Forwards coming out of this draft - Carter, Howard, Castle, and Dunn, are all all great defenders but none come close to him right now on the offensive side of the ball.

Also, I think both can play off the ball so I can definitely see line ups of Castle and Carter playing together which would be a tough combo for other teams offensive and a legit NIGHTMARE when include Wemby into the mix.

[scott]

Risacher, then. I have very little doubt you can get a better wing at any time. Remember that this is a guy who was mocked in the teens before the season -- and then nearly everyone before him collapsed. He still should be in the teens. I say that in all honesty. Last year, he would have been drafted around the Gradey Dick spot -- and Gradey Dick is better.



Only 51% joking when I say this... but maybe Toronto will give us Gradey Dick for their pick back. I'd take that deal.

[baseline bum]

Worst case scenario: Atlanta takes Risacher, Washington falls in love with Castle, and Houston takes Sarr who falls into their lap. That would probably put the Spurs in a tough spot, provided they aren't fans of Dillingham as I believe to be the case.

So they could take Sheppard then. The team desperately needs shooting.

[stnick2261]

By the way are there any good shotblockers mocked in the 2nd round? If we address SF and PG with #4 and #8 we should look to draft a C at #35. All we really need there is a rebounding shotblocker who can roll to the rim and is somewhat mobile to replace Collins long term.


Castle can guard the 1-3 and Sochan the 2-4 so that is a nice way to deal with teams with two scoring wings and or guards. Castle/Sochan also a nice counter our main obstacle, large PGs Doncic and SGA.

Agreed that if a nice PF is there at 35 that could be worth a shot. It’s a need we have to address in 25 otherwise.

Take a look at https://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche (http://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche)

He was recently mocked at 38, but I think he's not having a good combine so he's actually mocked to our 48 pick right now.

6'11.5" (barefoot i think) PF/C with a 7'4" Wingspan. He's faster and more agile than Edey. Per 36min he had: 10.8 reb, 4.0 ast, 3.2 blk, 1.6 stl, 15.6 pts... and 8.4 attempts at 3pt and hitting those at 38%. He's a 3&D PF.


Big negative is the 6 turnovers and the fact that he doesn't have a go-to midrange move. In the video I watched of him, he had a tough time deciding whether to shoot or float the ball so he ended up doing something in-between.

[mo7888]

Only 51% joking when I say this... but maybe Toronto will give us Gradey Dick for their pick back. I'd take that deal.

A Castle-Gradey backcourt would be pretty interesting tbh...

[exstatic]

Take a look at https://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche (http://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche)

He was recently mocked at 38, but I think he's not having a good combine so he's actually mocked to our 48 pick right now.

6'11.5" (barefoot i think) PF/C with a 7'4" Wingspan. He's faster and more agile than Edey. Per 36min he had: 10.8 reb, 4.0 ast, 3.2 blk, 1.6 stl, 15.6 pts... and 8.4 attempts at 3pt and hitting those at 38%. He's a 3&D PF.


Big negative is the 6 turnovers and the fact that he doesn't have a go-to midrange move. In the video I watched of him, he had a tough time deciding whether to shoot or float the ball so he ended up doing something in-between.

Those stats are also for only 3 games. Could be a Wiseman type thing, looks like a world beater in a micro sample.

[Ariel]

So they could take Sheppard then. The team desperately needs shooting.
Well, yeah, sure, there's plenty of guys you can take. My point is I see that as quite a drop going forward, in terms of talent or fit.

[baseline bum]

Well, yeah, sure, there's plenty of guys you can take. My point is I see that as quite a drop going forward, in terms of talent or fit.

IDK I like him on both talent and fit. I don't think he's much of dropoff from Castle or Risacher, though I like Dillingham a little better.

[RC_Drunkford]

Take a look at https://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche (http://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche)

He was recently mocked at 38, but I think he's not having a good combine so he's actually mocked to our 48 pick right now.

6'11.5" (barefoot i think) PF/C with a 7'4" Wingspan. He's faster and more agile than Edey. Per 36min he had: 10.8 reb, 4.0 ast, 3.2 blk, 1.6 stl, 15.6 pts... and 8.4 attempts at 3pt and hitting those at 38%. He's a 3&D PF.


Big negative is the 6 turnovers and the fact that he doesn't have a go-to midrange move. In the video I watched of him, he had a tough time deciding whether to shoot or float the ball so he ended up doing something in-between.

Wouldn't mind him as a project. I don't really care if he's a jump shooter or not. He should just be a good rim protector and make the easy buckets on offense. Anything above that is a plus.

[Knoxxx]

Take a look at https://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche (http://tankathon.com/players/ulrich-chomche)

He was recently mocked at 38, but I think he's not having a good combine so he's actually mocked to our 48 pick right now.

6'11.5" (barefoot i think) PF/C with a 7'4" Wingspan. He's faster and more agile than Edey. Per 36min he had: 10.8 reb, 4.0 ast, 3.2 blk, 1.6 stl, 15.6 pts... and 8.4 attempts at 3pt and hitting those at 38%. He's a 3&D PF.


Big negative is the 6 turnovers and the fact that he doesn't have a go-to midrange move. In the video I watched of him, he had a tough time deciding whether to shoot or float the ball so he ended up doing something in-between.

I’m aware of him he’s a good example of a roll the dice prospect at 35. I’m not sure the level of competition African developmental league?

[CorrectCrusader]

Great read

https://www.noceilingsnba.com/p/king-of-the-castle-why-stephon-castle?triedRedirect=true (https://www.noceilingsnba.com/p/king-of-the-castle-why-stephon-castle?triedRedirect=true)

[Ariel]

IDK I like him on both talent and fit. I don't think he's much of dropoff from Castle or Risacher, though I like Dillingham a little better.
I rate Dillingham/Castle/Risacher higher than Sheppard. I don't mind him at 8 if we took one of the others before though, he's a good fit but I like the ceiling of the others better and I'd be disappointed if he's our first pick.

[baseline bum]

I rate Dillingham/Castle/Risacher higher than Sheppard. I don't mind him at 8 if we took one of the others before, though, he's a good fit but I like the ceiling of the others better.

Yeah Sheppard is more a high floor guy than someone with a good ceiling. Castle's ceiling is sky high but depends on the team fixing his jumper like they did Kawhi's or he's Tre Jones plus defense.

[rankingtear]

No, there aren't as many options for solid defender PG or top PG than there are for SF in next year's draft.

The demand is very low though. It is more likely a PG drops.

[Degoat]

Just for Shits and Gigs I looked at the box score on the game between UCONN and Providence to see how Devin carter did… 24 points 15 rebounds 4 assists pretty freaking solid against that stout UCONN Def.

[Knoxxx]

Latest tankathon mock:

4: Topic
8: Knecht

[Mr. Body]

If Washington can't decide between Risacher and Topic, then #4 for Bilal Coulibaly.

Bonus: Coulibaly was better last year than Risacher now, will always be a better player, and would cost a bit less per year.

[The Truth #6]

Wait, Castle won't work out for the Spurs because we have Tre Jones as our nominal starter?

[Knoxxx]

Wait, Castle won't work out for the Spurs because we have Tre Jones as our nominal starter?

I too noticed some idiot posted that.

[Pauleta14]

That's why Castle makes sense for the Spurs. If they can land this kid next year. Castle, Traore and Vassell would make a solid three guard rotation backcourt.

Unless Wemby gets injured and misses the whole season he's out of Spurs's reach unfortunately

He'll end up top3 at worst imo

[T Park]

Wait, Castle won't work out for the Spurs because we have Tre Jones as our nominal starter?

yeah highly doubt that.

[T Park]

Wait, Castle won't work out for the Spurs because we have Tre Jones as our nominal starter?

Washington hangs up the phone laughing

[exstatic]

Unless Wemby gets injured and misses the whole season he's out of Spurs's reach unfortunately

He'll end up top3 at worst imo

Atlanta will be worse next year than last year. Their inclination is going to be to stand pat, but they’d probably be better trading Young and getting what they can than running it back 100% the same. They were a bit better without him and with DJ running the show.

[The Truth #6]

Atlanta should quit the Trae Young business asap in a vacuum. They tried Murray to get Young off ball. He didn't go for it. Nothing left to explore other than continued mediocrity. But we have their picks and the East is still kinda weak compared to the West so probably a play in team next year but not tanking. Anyway. Still glad we have their pick.

[Pauleta14]

Atlanta will be worse next year than last year. Their inclination is going to be to stand pat, but they’d probably be better trading Young and getting what they can than running it back 100% the same. They were a bit better without him and with DJ running the show.

I hope you're right but the East is so weak... we'll see

[mo7888]

I hope you're right but the East is so weak... we'll see

It's league wide standings for draft lottery position, though, right? League wide I expect Atlanta to be bottom 8.

[BackHome]

It's league wide standings for draft lottery position, though, right? League wide I expect Atlanta to be bottom 8.

I am so glad this is a weak draft class because with the number 1 pick this year I don't think it's going to help them short term as far as winning nor do I think they will get much in trading that pick. The Hawks are really screwed for the next 3 years owing us there picks so what they need to do is to be able to trade Murray or Trae but to trade them for very good draft picks (Unprotected) which is easier said then done.

[mo7888]

I am so glad this is a weak draft class because with the number 1 pick this year I don't think it's going to help them short term as far as winning nor do I think they will get much in trading that pick. The Hawks are really screwed for the next 3 years owing us there picks so what they need to do is to be able to trade Murray or Trae but to trade them for very good draft picks (Unprotected) which is easier said then done.

Ultimately, they are screwed... we've got them in a position where the best thing they can do for the franchise is makes moves that help us. Assuming we aren't a trade partner they only have two options, 1) Trade players for other players and remain a lower-mid team or 2) trade Trae/DJ etc for as many unprotected picks as they can get. Option 1 just delays their rebuild and Option 2 let's them start selling 'hope' now.

Option 2 is their best choice and it helps us...

[exstatic]

Ultimately, they are screwed... we've got them in a position where the best thing they can do for the franchise is makes moves that help us. Assuming we aren't a trade partner they only have two options, 1) Trade players for other players and remain a lower-mid team or 2) trade Trae/DJ etc for as many unprotected picks as they can get. Option 1 just delays their rebuild and Option 2 let's them start selling 'hope' now.

Option 2 is their best choice and it helps us...

I Think their hand will be forced within the calendar year on Trae. Next summer, he becomes a one year rental (26 opt out), and his price drops sharply. They really need to trade him sometime hetween the draft and the trade deadline.

[Vienna]

Worst case scenario: Atlanta takes Risacher, Washington falls in love with Castle, and Houston takes Sarr who falls into their lap. That would probably put the Spurs in a tough spot, provided they aren't fans of Dillingham as I believe to be the case.

unfortunately I see a good chance that this could happen.
In this case I would reach for Cody at 4. why? you push one more guard down and I don‘t see Pistons and Blazers pick a guard. Hornets might take Sheppard, but there is still a chance that they take Clingan, because of the back problems of Mark Williams. so or so, at 8 there will still be a nicely filled pool of guards available. Topic, Dillingham, McCain, Carter and maybe also Sheppard. Whatever player type they are looking for, it should be there. That would not be the case with SFs. And I think the Pistons would pick Cody at 5, if he is there.

[scott]

New CBS mock is a change up:

https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2024-nba-mock-draft-alex-sarr-remains-projected-no-1-to-hawks-as-international-stars-rise-post-combine/

[Truckules]

By the way are there any good shotblockers mocked in the 2nd round? If we address SF and PG with #4 and #8 we should look to draft a C at #35. All we really need there is a rebounding shotblocker who can roll to the rim and is somewhat mobile to replace Collins long term.

Bassey is still under contract for 2 more seasons. He was great this season before the ACL injury so I don't see the Spurs looking that way unless they worry about his knees long term.

[Bartleby]

New CBS mock is a change up:

https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2024-nba-mock-draft-alex-sarr-remains-projected-no-1-to-hawks-as-international-stars-rise-post-combine/

Dilly's stock really dropped in that mock.

[baseline bum]

unfortunately I see a good chance that this could happen.
In this case I would reach for Cody at 4. why? you push one more guard down and I don‘t see Pistons and Blazers pick a guard. Hornets might take Sheppard, but there is still a chance that they take Clingan, because of the back problems of Mark Williams. so or so, at 8 there will still be a nicely filled pool of guards available. Topic, Dillingham, McCain, Carter and maybe also Sheppard. Whatever player type they are looking for, it should be there. That would not be the case with SFs. And I think the Pistons would pick Cody at 5, if he is there.

No way the Pistons are taking Cody Williams ahead of Buzelis. If there's one guy you can almost certainly wait until #8 to draft, it's him.

[TimmehC]

Miami lucking into Dillingham would be absolutely ridiculous.

[CGD]

New CBS mock is a change up:

https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2024-nba-mock-draft-alex-sarr-remains-projected-no-1-to-hawks-as-international-stars-rise-post-combine/

This would be a sad draft for the Spurs

[NASpurs]

New CBS mock is a change up:

https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/2024-nba-mock-draft-alex-sarr-remains-projected-no-1-to-hawks-as-international-stars-rise-post-combine/

Interesting Dillingham ranked 5th best PG in the draft.

[CGD]

Interesting bits in this Wasserman piece from today about movement since the combine:

https://www.nba.com/news/bleacher-report-how-2024-combine-changed-latest-mock-draft

[mo7888]

Interesting bits in this Wasserman piece from today about movement since the combine:

https://www.nba.com/news/bleacher-report-how-2024-combine-changed-latest-mock-draft

Things are becoming a little clearer..

[BackHome]

Miami lucking into Dillingham would be absolutely ridiculous.

Miami getting Carter would be a perfect fit for both of them

[CorrectCrusader]

More than likely.

Interestingly, Clingan has "fans among the Hawks constituency". If he gets to 4 and the Hawks prefer Risacher to Sarr, the Spurs could offer a package around 4 for Murray.


This is your weekly reminder that the Atlanta hawks defensive rating was WORSE when Dejounte was on the floor vs Trae young on the floor

[rascal]

Just take Nikola Djurisic if you want a Serbian PG with size in the second round instead of Topic with a top 8 pick.

[dubross]

https://x.com/esidery/status/1794087815363350669?s=46&t=R_sceQ4efZTX7nQnRN92Cw

[Cardinal]

https://x.com/esidery/status/1794087815363350669?s=46&t=R_sceQ4efZTX7nQnRN92Cw

I like it. Carter certainly had the forehead for the job. He fits the mold

[PhantomDashCam]

Would the Spurs look at drafting Castle at #4 and Carter at #8?
That’d actually be a pretty fun haul…

[SpursBills]

Would the Spurs look at drafting Castle at #4 and Carter at #8?
That’d actually be a pretty fun haul…

I think if the Spurs took Castle at 4, Carter would be too redundant, as fun as that defense would be. Dillingham at 8 is probably the correct move.

Seeing what the Spurs have recently valued though with positional size and length, my prediction would be Castle and Cody Williams as the most likely combination to be taken.

If that did go down and the two guys developed appropriately, Spurs-Thunder would be absolutely epic in a couple years

Chet vs Wemby
Jalen vs Cody
SGA vs a guy custom built to stop him
Dort vs Sochan to see who could be hated more by the opposing fanbase

If the spurs could sign a random teenage girl to play point guard, NBA media would explode on the spot

[tbdog]

I like it. Carter certainly had the forehead for the job. He fits the mold



Few who had a better combine week than Carter, who broke a combine record in the 3/4-court sprint and tied for the best max standing vertical leap at 42 inches. He's coming off a Big East Player of the Year season for Providence and has shown the improvement as a shooter that could make him a ready-made 3-and-D weapon with playmaking to boot.

It's hard reading scouting reports when they all come across and allstars in the making. But I like what I read.

[BackHome]

Just take Nikola Djurisic if you want a Serbian PG with size in the second round instead of Topic with a top 8 pick.

I am really hoping to get him or Dadiet with our 35 pick

[PhantomDashCam]

I think if the Spurs took Castle at 4, Carter would be too redundant, as fun as that defense would be. Dillingham at 8 is probably the correct move.

Seeing what the Spurs have recently valued though with positional size and length, my prediction would be Castle and Cody Williams as the most likely combination to be taken.

If that did go down and the two guys developed appropriately, Spurs-Thunder would be absolutely epic in a couple years

Chet vs Wemby
Jalen vs Cody
SGA vs a guy custom built to stop him
Dort vs Sochan to see who could be hated more by the opposing fanbase

If the spurs could sign a random teenage girl to play point guard, NBA media would explode on the spot

:lol That would be pretty cool. I still think the Castle/Carter combo is a possibility tbh.

I’d imagine the ball is still going to be in Wemby’s hands for a majority of plays.
I’m still not sold that Dillingham can play off-ball and contribute defensively at a serviceable level.

[Vienna]

Seeing what the Spurs have recently valued though with positional size and length, my prediction would be Castle and Cody Williams as the most likely combination to be taken.


I see it the same way and add the criteria positional versatility potential. Of course both have open questions what position they will finally be able to play in the NBA, but there is the upside, that both develop into that swiss army knife player type that you can put into any line up a coach wants to play. That‘s an underrated value when thinking about a long season with all the unavoidable injuries and fatigue.

[mo7888]

I think if the Spurs took Castle at 4, Carter would be too redundant, as fun as that defense would be. Dillingham at 8 is probably the correct move.

Seeing what the Spurs have recently valued though with positional size and length, my prediction would be Castle and Cody Williams as the most likely combination to be taken.

If that did go down and the two guys developed appropriately, Spurs-Thunder would be absolutely epic in a couple years

Chet vs Wemby
Jalen vs Cody
SGA vs a guy custom built to stop him
Dort vs Sochan to see who could be hated more by the opposing fanbase

If the spurs could sign a random teenage girl to play point guard, NBA media would explode on the spot

I think Dilly is trending to land outside of the top 10....

[heyheymymy]

Dilly falling like Nick Smith Jr but without the injury

[Uriel]

For all the talk of the Spurs being interested in Castle or Sheppard or Salaun, keep in mind that the front office is known to have faked interest in prospects in the past to throw the scent away from their real targets. One recent example that comes to mind is Jalen Smith in 2020, when they really wanted Devin Vassell.

[Ditty]

BW loves combine darlings. If Clingan falls to 8, I wonder if the call is made to OKC to trade Clingan to them for #12 which would be Devin Carter and Denver's top 5 protected first in 2027.

[Mr. Body]

There's still a month to go. #nbadraft types are giving each player a moment and holding up scraps of information to the sunlight. Top of the draft may be trying to generate interest in trades. Other teams may be hiding what they're doing. Charlotte and Detroit are only now putting their front offices together. We're not even sure who's been worked out where. Fans are still obsessing over combine measurements.

[Mr. Body]

BW loves combine darlings. If Clingan falls to 8, I wonder if the call is made to OKC to trade Clingan to them for #12 which would be Devin Carter and Denver's top 5 protected first in 2027.

This gets repeated a lot. Other than Primo, when has this been the case?

And I don't see OKC and SAS trading with each other anytime soon.

[buttsR4rebounding]

BW loves combine darlings. If Clingan falls to 8, I wonder if the call is made to OKC to trade Clingan to them for #12 which would be Devin Carter and Denver's top 5 protected first in 2027.

Screw the 27 FRP send us Chip back.

[TD 21]

Glad people are finally really looking at this kid as I think he is one of the top 4 best defenders regarding Guards/Forwards coming out of this draft - Carter, Howard, Castle, and Dunn, are all all great defenders but none come close to him right now on the offensive side of the ball.

Also, I think both can play off the ball so I can definitely see line ups of Castle and Carter playing together which would be a tough combo for other teams offensive and a legit NIGHTMARE when include Wemby into the mix.

Not potent enough offensively.


This is your weekly reminder that the Atlanta hawks defensive rating was WORSE when Dejounte was on the floor vs Trae young on the floor

The Spurs were rumored interested and there's this thing called offense that this team is worse at than defense and the former is more important period.

[Bruno]

The PG situation in this draft is quite strange.

There are 4 PGs in the top10: Dilingham, Sheppard, Castle and Topic. They all have at least one obvious major flaw like lack of size, being a poor defender, weak outside shoot... After these 4 PGs, there is Devin Carter, who is older, without a major flaw and who is obviously not as talented.

Spurs must decide, among the top4 PGs, which are the ones with flaws that can be fixed or mitigated by their qualities. At #8 there should have 1 or 2 of the top4 PGs left. If Spurs view them as too flawed, Devin Carter makes a lot of sense. Personally, I would take Devin Carter over Sheppard and Topic.

[RobinsontoDuncan]

The PG situation in this draft is quite strange.

There are 4 PGs in the top10: Dilingham, Sheppard, Castle and Topic. They all have at least one obvious major flaw like lack of size, being a poor defender, weak outside shoot... After these 4 PGs, there is Devin Carter, who is older, without a major flaw and who is obviously not as talented.

Spurs must decide, among the top4 PGs, which are the ones with flaws that can be fixed or mitigated by their qualities. At #8 there should have 1 or 2 of the top4 PGs left. If Spurs view them as too flawed, Devin Carter makes a lot of sense. Personally, I would take Devin Carter over Sheppard and Topic.

I’m not sure I agree with the assessment that Devin Carter has a lower ceiling than Sheppard or Castle. He is older, sure, but with his measurable athleticism and rapid improvement I think he has a very high ceiling and a higher floor.

[Duncan2177]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3aqNIdYwhA

[fafo]

Interesting bits in this Wasserman piece from today about movement since the combine:

https://www.nba.com/news/bleacher-report-how-2024-combine-changed-latest-mock-draft
Nice tidbit at the end about AJ Johnson. I hope the Spurs take him with one of their second round picks.

[Pauleta14]

The PG situation in this draft is quite strange.

There are 4 PGs in the top10: Dilingham, Sheppard, Castle and Topic. They all have at least one obvious major flaw like lack of size, being a poor defender, weak outside shoot... After these 4 PGs, there is Devin Carter, who is older, without a major flaw and who is obviously not as talented.

Spurs must decide, among the top4 PGs, which are the ones with flaws that can be fixed or mitigated by their qualities. At #8 there should have 1 or 2 of the top4 PGs left. If Spurs view them as too flawed, Devin Carter makes a lot of sense. Personally, I would take Devin Carter over Sheppard and Topic.

Well you automatically eliminate Gilli and Reed just with that... :lol

And I agree with you Castle is the clear obvious choice, his shot is better than Kawhi's at the same stage for ex

Carter is a VERY close 2nd tho, I disagree on the "obviously not as talented", he's just more experienced and I like it a lot (same reason JDub was underrated 2 drafts ago)

[kobyz]

Not the same players, but when you think of Dillingham in terms of what his impact in the NBA could be you think of Dame Lillard

[kobyz]

I’m not sure I agree with the assessment that Devin Carter has a lower ceiling than Sheppard or Castle. He is older, sure, but with his measurable athleticism and rapid improvement I think he has a very high ceiling and a higher floor.

He gives some Derrick White vibes

[Mr. Body]

Not the same players, but when you think of Dillingham in terms of what his impact in the NBA could be you think of Dame Lillard

If Dillingham hits, he's a star with the same kind of threat Lillard gives, yes.

[Bruno]

Carter is a VERY close 2nd tho, I disagree on the "obviously not as talented", he's just more experienced and I like it a lot (same reason JDub was underrated 2 drafts ago)

It's hard to compare them given than Carter is 2 to 3 years older then the other players. When he was a college freshman, Carter wasn't as good as Castle, Dilingham and Sheppard. That's a big reason why he is projected as a mid first round pick while the 4 other PGs are in the top10.

[Bruno]

Another great game by Risacher in a win with 21 points and 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. Serie between Monaco and Bourg is tied 1-1. Monaco has some injuries but it is a great win for his team.

https://x.com/LNBofficiel/status/1794436774023905694

If I'm Spurs, I would offer #4 + Bulls pick to Washington for #2 to draft Risacher.

[Degoat]

Risacher might really be playing himself to that number 1 pick for the hawks tbh

[RC_Drunkford]

This gets repeated a lot. Other than Primo, when has this been the case?

And I don't see OKC and SAS trading with each other anytime soon.

Samanic to name one

[baseline bum]

I think if the Spurs took Castle at 4, Carter would be too redundant, as fun as that defense would be. Dillingham at 8 is probably the correct move.


Don't see drafting two PGs as the correct move when you can only give good minutes to one.

[Bruno]

Season is over for Dadiet and Nunez in Germany with Ulm. I've watch the end of the last game, Dadiet wasn't playing and Nunez was quite invisible. The level of this game quite disappointing. MVP was the beautiful Zac Seljaas:
https://www.wuerzburg-baskets.de/fileadmin/_processed_/a/0/csm_2024-04-20_PM_Seljaas_3407a1f487.jpg

Dadiet and Nunez can still withdraw their name before the deadline on June 16th. If they stay in the draft, both are legit options at #35.

[spurraider21]

Wonder if Mr Body would still rather take Furphy at 18 than Risacher at 4 or whatever :lol

[Dverde]

Another great game by Risacher in a win with 21 points and 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. Serie between Monaco and Bourg is tied 1-1. Monaco has some injuries but it is a great win for his team.

https://x.com/LNBofficiel/status/1794436774023905694

If I'm Spurs, I would offer #4 + Bulls pick to Washington for #2 to draft Risacher.

Sad thing is if the Spurs offer this, Washington knows that they need to draft Risacher.

[mo7888]

Another great game by Risacher in a win with 21 points and 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. Serie between Monaco and Bourg is tied 1-1. Monaco has some injuries but it is a great win for his team.

https://x.com/LNBofficiel/status/1794436774023905694

If I'm Spurs, I would offer #4 + Bulls pick to Washington for #2 to draft Risacher.

I doubt he's there at #2..

[spurraider21]

Full highlights btw

1794448900356780053

[baseline bum]

Another great game by Risacher in a win with 21 points and 8 rebounds in 31 minutes. Serie between Monaco and Bourg is tied 1-1. Monaco has some injuries but it is a great win for his team.

https://x.com/LNBofficiel/status/1794436774023905694

If I'm Spurs, I would offer #4 + Bulls pick to Washington for #2 to draft Risacher.

Pretty impressive busting Monaco's ass like that. Probably need to offer Atlanta #4, the Chicago pick, and call off the 26 swap if they want Risacher though.

[Mr. Body]

Wonder if Mr Body would still rather take Furphy at 18 than Risacher at 4 or whatever :lol

For value, probably.

You guys jack it to Risacher all you want. He's still the same player he was a week ago. A couple good games is great for him, but he's still a role player who got hot. Still no self creation, etc. The rebounding is a surprise. I guess he realized he had to hustle.

[Bruno]

I doubt he's there at #2..

Maybe you're right.
From what draft "journalists" are saying, it will be either Sarr or Risacher for Hawks.
I would say Sarr makes more sense for them with Capela slowing down. Sarr has had a great combine.
Risacher might be an option especially if they aren't confident on De'Andre Hunter long term health.

[mo7888]

Maybe you're right.
From what draft "journalists" are saying, it will be either Sarr or Risacher for Hawks.
I would say Sarr makes more sense for them with Capela slowing down. Sarr has had a great combine.
Risacher might be an option especially if they aren't confident on De'Andre Hunter long term health.

I just think they're going BPA regardless of fit and Risacher is becoming the consensus BPA.

[TD 21]

I don't care about the age difference, I'd rather Carter over Castle. Better shooter (though there's some question as to the legitimacy given the lack of track record and middling free throw %), athlete and players bigger, as shown by his superior "event creation" numbers.

He reminds me of George Hill and De'Anthony Melton, an archetype that usually exceeds expectations (albeit alongside a big guard/wing primary ball handler).

[TimmyBuckets]

This is a good breakdown of our draft options:


https://youtu.be/M3aqNIdYwhA?si=tsT7M7Awho8wK5oF

[Uriel]

Maybe that’s why Brian Wright looked so obviously disappointed when the Spurs were announced at #4. He might have wanted Risacher.

[MaNu4Tres]

I don't care about the age difference, I'd rather Carter over Castle. Better shooter (though there's some question as to the legitimacy given the lack of track record and middling free throw %), athlete and players bigger, as shown by his superior "event creation" numbers.

He reminds me of George Hill and De'Anthony Melton, an archetype that usually exceeds expectations (albeit alongside a big guard/wing primary ball handler).

Carter is a top ten player in this draft imo but not top 10 prospect. Really high on him being able to contribute day 1. Love him as a player. I couldn’t believe how him and McCain were mocked in the late 1st/early 2nd in January.

In regards to Carter, I can definitely understand how one would have him over Castle but Castle to me has a much higher ceiling on both ends and offers a higher floor than he was able to showcase at UConn. I love how Castle was able to experience ( and flourish) in Hurley’s advanced NBA style of motion offense and be a fluid threat off the ball as an advanced cutter, connective passer, & screener — something that will mesh well in a Victor centric style of offense with Vic having the ball even more moving forward. Castle displayed a high IQ and high processor as a connective cog and I think he has a lot more to show with the ball on the next level. The knee issue with Castle played a role in his shooting this year. With more time, , his work ethic, Jimmy Baron, Spurs development, and with his good touch I’m buying his shot becoming a real threat.

I’ve personally heard Spurs are high on Reed and there’s been real whispers about Castle being up there as well.

[024]

Too bad Risacher won't be there at #4. Warming up a bit to Castle at #4 especially if the Spurs aren't that excited or indifferent between Reed and Sheppard. Just don't like the spacing and wasn't Sochan brought in for a similar role of defense + playmaking? Also a bit tired of Spurs drafting non 3 pt shooters thinking they can turn them into 3 pt shooters. Spurs are already loaded with them.

[spurraider21]

For value, probably.

You guys jack it to Risacher all you want. He's still the same player he was a week ago. A couple good games is great for him, but he's still a role player who got hot. Still no self creation, etc. The rebounding is a surprise. I guess he realized he had to hustle.
https://media.tenor.com/ldg3QePSXa8AAAAM/jack-sparrow-sinking-ship.gif

[RC_Drunkford]

Risacher is clearly the best prospect in this draft. Always had him at the top of my board, but now there's no way he falls to us at #4. I definitely want a big in the 2nd round.

*edit: just seen he's mocked around #22

1794470242913047003

[Uriel]

13. Devin Carter (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4433188/devin-carter) | PG/SG | Providence (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2507/providence-friars)

6-4 | Age: 22.1 | Previously ranked: 17

Carter has significant momentum as he's in the midst of an outstanding month that has him knocking on the door of the draft lottery. He measured well and tested as arguably the best athlete in this draft at the combine, posting historic figures that included a 42-inch vertical leap and shuttle and sprint times that put him in elite company. Carter also had one of the best pro day showings we saw in either Chicago or Los Angeles, putting his Olympic-level athletic ability on full display and knocking down 30-foot pull-up jumpers with ease, as he did all season at Providence.

Teams looking for immediate backcourt help, starting with the San Antonio Spurs (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sa/san-antonio-spurs) at No. 8 and the Memphis Grizzlies (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/mem/memphis-grizzlies) at No. 9 have significant interest in Carter, as his draft stock may continue to climb in the next month as he gets into private workouts. -- Givony
Carter is starting to feel like the next Primo-esque pick for this team.

[Dejounte]

Risacher is clearly the best prospect in this draft. Always had him at the top of my board, but now there's no way he falls to us at #4. I definitely want a big in the 2nd round.

*edit: just seen he's mocked around #22

1794470242913047003

You (and many others) will be wrong about this one tbh. Risacher is today’s news and tomorrow’s mistake. He will be overshadowed by most of everyone in next year’s draft and people will want to bench him for a better player as soon as people notice the lack of a dynamic player in the lineup.

[Mr. Body]

Carter is starting to feel like the next Primo-esque pick for this team.

If you mean a reach, then maybe. But if you think a guy is going to be good at 12, there's no reason to not take him at 8 if there's no one in between.

If you mean playing style/development, Carter is much more like J-Will or Podz as a player who finally clicked after a few years in the NCAA. Primo was a freshman who was showing signs of promise throughout conference play at Alabama.

[mo7888]

You (and many others) will be wrong about this one tbh. Risacher is today’s news and tomorrow’s mistake. He will be overshadowed by most of everyone in next year’s draft and people will want to bench him for a better player as soon as people notice the lack of a dynamic player in the lineup.

Everyone in this years draft is going to be overshadowed by next year's draft. He's not the only one and he's the best this draft has to offer.

[Vienna]

If someone get‘s desparate about the recent developments and needs a different look at the draft projections, you can listen to Leif Thulin and his latest big board.
he has Dillingham at #1, then Sarr, Castle, Holland, Risacher, Clingan, Topic, Salaun……..(I stopped at this point). well, nice, we would end up with Risacher and Sheppard if we follow this, but I think he needs to rethink this and he should blow his nose on occasion.
but on a more serious note, I think we can stop discussing Risacher, he will be gone and I fear there also won‘t be a trade up scenario to get him. Spurs might rather orchestrate a trade for Bilal Coulibaly.
so, the more unlikely it gets that Spurs draft Risacher, the more likely Castle will be the main target and we need to worry that he will be picked top 3, probably by WAS at #2.

[TD 21]

Carter is a top ten player in this draft imo but not top 10 prospect. Really high on him being able to contribute day 1. Love him as a player. I couldn’t believe how him and McCain were mocked in the late 1st/early 2nd in January.

In regards to Carter, I can definitely understand how one would have him over Castle but Castle to me has a much higher ceiling on both ends and offers a higher floor than he was able to showcase at UConn. I love how Castle was able to experience ( and flourish) in Hurley’s advanced NBA style of motion offense and be a fluid threat off the ball as an advanced cutter, connective passer, & screener — something that will mesh well in a Victor centric style of offense with Vic having the ball even more moving forward. Castle displayed a high IQ and high processor as a connective cog and I think he has a lot more to show with the ball on the next level. The knee issue with Castle played a role in his shooting this year. With more time, , his work ethic, Jimmy Baron, Spurs development, and with his good touch I’m buying his shot becoming a real threat.

I’ve personally heard Spurs are high on Reed and there’s been real whispers about Castle being up there as well.

Fair enough (agree on McCain), but to me everything changed with Wembanyama.

Since it's no longer a typical re-build, I'm no longer interested in projects unless the ceiling is sky high and I don't see it with Castle.

I see a high bust rate archetype (rare that any of them become good enough shooters for the defense to respect, a threshold that continually increases) and a team that's needed it badly for the better part of a decade and continues to bank on and fail in being able to fix/develop it, but never seems to learn their lesson.

Let someone else take the plunge and select more of a sure thing like Sheppard or Carter.

[Vienna]

Carter compared to Donovan Mitchell?

https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=devin-carter--donovan-mitchell (https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=devin-carter--donovan-mitchell)

[bluebellmaniac]

Don't see drafting two PGs as the correct move when you can only give good minutes to one.

Pop is looking to recreate "The Beautiful Game" and handling the ball and passing is a premium. If you got SG height and can pass, then that helps.

Need to think the traditional PG position is sooooo yesterday and we need as many ball handlers we can get. Height and ball handling= perfect mix!

[Pauleta14]

It's hard to compare them given than Carter is 2 to 3 years older then the other players. When he was a college freshman, Carter wasn't as good as Castle, Dilingham and Sheppard. That's a big reason why he is projected as a mid first round pick while the 4 other PGs are in the top10.

I agree and that's why I used the JDub ex, who also wasn't as good before his junior season

Considering Wemby's advance wouldn't it be better to have a PG with an advanced development rather than one much younger one?

Carter would be more ready to contribute especially on offense, their defense being close as well as their overall ceiling

Just wondering tbh...

[RC_Drunkford]

You (and many others) will be wrong about this one tbh. Risacher is today’s news and tomorrow’s mistake. He will be overshadowed by most of everyone in next year’s draft and people will want to bench him for a better player as soon as people notice the lack of a dynamic player in the lineup.

nobody is talking about next year's draft. We are talking about this year. Risacher is by far BPA and would instantly start on the Spurs with Champagnie moving to the bench. I can't say that about any other prospect right now aside from maybe Dillingham and he's #2 on my board.

[Knoxxx]

If you guaranteed me Sheppard plus Castle right this second I’d probably go for it.

[SpursBills]

Serious question for anybody thinking of drafting Dalton Knecht at 8 - what is it about him that sets him apart from Baylor Scheierman in the second round? This isn't a question of value or anything, but like are we actually sure that Knecht is going to be a better pro than Scheierman? Both are 23 year old decent sized wings and white guys who led top college teams, Scheierman's a little taller, Knecht is a little longer. Knecht scored more on higher volume, but I would argue Scheierman projects as a better shooter, better rebounder, and better passer. Scheierman has also been doing very well in the combine. What am I not seeing that you guys are? Is the thought process that Knecht is a good enough bucket getter to play a high usage role and be a volume scorer in the NBA? Knecht is easily my least favorite prospect in the top 10 right now but I'm willing to be convinced.

[PhantomDashCam]

1794468763406106950

[buttsR4rebounding]

Too bad Risacher won't be there at #4. Warming up a bit to Castle at #4 especially if the Spurs aren't that excited or indifferent between Reed and Sheppard. Just don't like the spacing and wasn't Sochan brought in for a similar role of defense + playmaking? Also a bit tired of Spurs drafting non 3 pt shooters thinking they can turn them into 3 pt shooters. Spurs are already loaded with them.
:lmao

[mo7888]

Serious question for anybody thinking of drafting Dalton Knecht at 8 - what is it about him that sets him apart from Baylor Scheierman in the second round? This isn't a question of value or anything, but like are we actually sure that Knecht is going to be a better pro than Scheierman? Both are 23 year old decent sized wings and white guys who led top college teams, Scheierman's a little taller, Knecht is a little longer. Knecht scored more on higher volume, but I would argue Scheierman projects as a better shooter, better rebounder, and better passer. Scheierman has also been doing very well in the combine. What am I not seeing that you guys are? Is the thought process that Knecht is a good enough bucket getter to play a high usage role and be a volume scorer in the NBA? Knecht is easily my least favorite prospect in the top 10 right now but I'm willing to be convinced.

Knecht is more athletic and projects as a better shooter. Scheierman is a great value at 35 though. One of the things I like about Knecht though os that he's been 'the guy' on his team as opposed to a role player. Obviously either would be a role player here, bit having taken the bigger shots gives Knecht a decisive edge. I've got him 7 on my Spurs board and I've got Scheierman as the top of the 2nd round.

[SpursBills]

Knecht is more athletic and projects as a better shooter. Scheierman is a great value at 35 though. One of the things I like about Knecht though os that he's been 'the guy' on his team as opposed to a role player. Obviously either would be a role player here, bit having taken the bigger shots gives Knecht a decisive edge. I've got him 7 on my Spurs board and I've got Scheierman as the top of the 2nd round.

Thanks! That's helpful. I disagree that Knecht projects as a better shooter as his FT% has hovered in the high 70's the last few years whereas Scheierman has been around the mid 80's. Knecht had a slightly higher 3pt% whereas Scheierman had a slightly higher 3 pt volume this past year. If you look at their numbers historically over the last 3 years Scheierman crushes him in volume and medium-volume accuracy. I see your point about athleticism though, and I guess you are weighing Knecht's athleticism and volume scoring against Scheierman's overall offensive production. I don't have a big board, but see them as very similar prospects personally who should go somewhere in the early-mid 20s, but your explanation definitely helps me understand where you're coming from!

[ginobilized]

I'm torn between Reed & Sheppard
Reed at 4 Sheppard at 8 or vice versa?

[ginobilized]

I'm torn between Reed & Sheppard
Reed at 4 Sheppard at 8 or vice versa?

[mo7888]

I see TaT has us taking Topic and Knecht with Castle, Dilly, Salaun, and Williams still on the board at 8...

[CGD]

Something I’ve been thinking more about recently:

If Clingan falls out of the Top 3, are we sure the Spurs pass on him if he’s still at 8? Are we certain they’ve turned the page on “viewing Jakob as the perfect fit” next to VW?

He might well be BPA there, and Collins isn’t long for the roster. But also, MIN showed a template to beat DEN that the Spurs could replicate by drafting Clingan.

[Ariel]

Season is over for Dadiet and Nunez in Germany with Ulm. I've watch the end of the last game, Dadiet wasn't playing and Nunez was quite invisible. The level of this game quite disappointing. MVP was the beautiful Zac Seljaas:
Dadiet and Nunez can still withdraw their name before the deadline on June 16th. If they stay in the draft, both are legit options at #35.
What are your thoughts on Dadiet? He seems like one of the more interesting upside swings that could be available around the 35th pick. Would a draft & stash for another year in Europe be an option, or would he want to go to the NBA immediately?

[mo7888]

Something I’ve been thinking more about recently:

If Clingan falls out of the Top 3, are we sure the Spurs pass on him if he’s still at 8? Are we certain they’ve turned the page on “viewing Jakob as the perfect fit” next to VW?

He might well be BPA there, and Collins isn’t long for the roster. But also, MIN showed a template to beat DEN that the Spurs could replicate by drafting Clingan.

If he's on the board at 8 he's got to be seriously considered..

[Mr. Body]

Something I’ve been thinking more about recently:

If Clingan falls out of the Top 3, are we sure the Spurs pass on him if he’s still at 8? Are we certain they’ve turned the page on “viewing Jakob as the perfect fit” next to VW?

He might well be BPA there, and Collins isn’t long for the roster. But also, MIN showed a template to beat DEN that the Spurs could replicate by drafting Clingan.

With Memphis perceived to want a Stephen Adams replacement, someone might want to snake up and grab him first. I'd take suitors.

As for keeping him, I don't mind going for strict role-players, but might prefer Filipowski in terms of skillset. I think last year showed that Wembanyama struggles next to a big.

[spursparker9]

I'm torn between Reed & Sheppard
Reed at 4 Sheppard at 8 or vice versa?

I think it is possible to take both with a single pick.

[Ariel]

You (and many others) will be wrong about this one tbh. Risacher is today’s news and tomorrow’s mistake. He will be overshadowed by most of everyone in next year’s draft and people will want to bench him for a better player as soon as people notice the lack of a dynamic player in the lineup.
I don't think most people here are mistaking Risacher for a future superstar, but rather a player with a defined and sought after skill set in today's NBA (off ball, low usage 3&D wing with good positional size) who, despite having just turned 19, has already proven to be productive and efficient at a higher level of basketball than most lottery prospects, and is one of the easier to project at the next level.

In regards to shooting, so far Risacher is upwards of 42.4% from 3 on good volume (3.4 3PA per game) with a large enough sample (made 70/165 threes, for reference both Sheppard and Dillingham took 144), with a fast and high release and good mechanics. On the defensive end he seems active and smart, at the very least he should be a good team defender though I'm not 100% sold on his lateral speed or how well he's going to hold up against more athletic and physically imposing wings. Even if he's mostly a catch and shoot guy rather than an iso scorer or creator, he moves the ball well and, despite claims to the contrary, actually can put the ball on the floor some.

Is he the kind of player you'd normally aspire to draft with a top 4 pick? Probably not, but just because he isn't PG13 that shouldn't disqualify him, in a class where it isn't obvious anybody else is. At the end of the day, guys who play both ends of the floor and can score efficiently on low usage are always welcome on a winning team, if he ends up a bigger Cam Johnson with a bit higher upside that's a valuable player to have and likely to end up one of the better players from this class when it's all said and done.

Maybe he ends up overshadowed by many top picks in next year's draft, but none of us has any idea if the Spurs are going to be able to get hold of them. The near future of the Spurs, Atlanta, Chicago and Charlottte is up in the air and it's contingent upon many things, we could end up picking 12 and 16 (no Chicago or Charlotte pick) with no guarantees of finding such better player, or we get to pick 1,2,11 and who we took in this draft becomes an anecdote. But we shouldn't assume what's going to happen next year to make a decision now.

All in all, he seems like a pretty sensible pick that could be a good short term fit and, at the very least, good store of value in the long term. There are higher upside prospects who may end up unplayable or extremely expensive in terms of playing time and role, so he's one of a few in my shortlist for the Spurs (along with Dillingham and Castle, followed by Buzelis).

[spurraider21]

If the top 3 are Sarr/Risacher/Sheppard I’d be glad to move down from 4 to 9 so Memphis can get Clingan. They send us a future 1. We take Dillingham at 8 anyway and then a wing at 9 like Cody/Holland/Salaun

[Ariel]

If the top 3 are Sarr/Risacher/Sheppard I’d be glad to move down from 4 to 9 so Memphis can get Clingan. They send us a future 1. We take Dillingham at 8 anyway and then a wing at 9 like Cody/Holland/Salaun
In that scenario I'd much rather take Castle at 4 than downgrade to either of Cody/Holland/Salaun for a distant Memphis pick that isn't likely to be good.

[onechance87]

If the top 3 are Sarr/Risacher/Sheppard I’d be glad to move down from 4 to 9 so Memphis can get Clingan. They send us a future 1. We take Dillingham at 8 anyway and then a wing at 9 like Cody/Holland/Salaun

im cool with that,But i think theres a good chance he falls to them anyways.Think they just wait it out.

[Splits]

just GOD NO Salaun or Topic. Both are sure busts. Book it.

[TD 21]

Something I’ve been thinking more about recently:

If Clingan falls out of the Top 3, are we sure the Spurs pass on him if he’s still at 8? Are we certain they’ve turned the page on “viewing Jakob as the perfect fit” next to VW?

He might well be BPA there, and Collins isn’t long for the roster. But also, MIN showed a template to beat DEN that the Spurs could replicate by drafting Clingan.

I doubt Clingan gets to 8, but at that point it's a value play. Select him and either shop him or (they won't do this) pay to get off of Collins (Hornets 1st and multiple 2nds max).

Keep an eye on the Pistons. Maybe they go Buzelis (agent is the son of their Vice President) or despite hiring Langdon as the POBO there's probably a mandate from Gores (owner) to start winning sooner than later, so they might go with a more likely instant contributor like Clingan or even Knecht.

[scott]

I'm torn between Reed & Sheppard
Reed at 4 Sheppard at 8 or vice versa?

Man if Reed is there at 4 I can't pass it up. But even if I take Reed, if Sheppard is still there at 8... I think I take them both. Having Reed and Sheppard out of this draft would be a haul, but I don't know how they can share the court together... they seem redundant to each other... almost identical.

[PhantomDashCam]

1794592586512134653

Another Zhang Bang! :lol

https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExeWpkMm1oYjcwNzZ2c2J5cHQ0Z3htOWU 5M3NlYW1mcmhpYXlmMG9jbSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfY nlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/DPtj3FaOaENO0/giphy.gif

[BatManu20]

1794592586512134653

Another Zhang Bang! :lol

https://media.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTc5MGI3NjExeWpkMm1oYjcwNzZ2c2J5cHQ0Z3htOWU 5M3NlYW1mcmhpYXlmMG9jbSZlcD12MV9pbnRlcm5hbF9naWZfY nlfaWQmY3Q9Zw/DPtj3FaOaENO0/giphy.gif

:lol that fake ass “reporter” with 200 followers and a stock photo as his profile pic doesn’t know shit. Just some kid trolling from mom’s basement. Prob someone on this board tbh.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Can someone explain to me why Clingan gets rated above Edey? There’s regular posts about Clingan possibly going top 3 and Edey rarely mentioned even in the lottery. At the combine Edey was bigger, faster, more agile, a better shooter. Plus he dominated their matchup in the NCAA championship.

[mo7888]

I doubt Clingan gets to 8, but at that point it's a value play. Select him and either shop him or (they won't do this) pay to get off of Collins (Hornets 1st and multiple 2nds max).

Keep an eye on the Pistons. Maybe they go Buzelis (agent is the son of their Vice President) or despite hiring Langdon as the POBO there's probably a mandate from Gores (owner) to start winning sooner than later, so they might go with a more likely instant contributor like Clingan or even Knecht.

Knecht seems like the best fit there. He's adds shooting that they need and he's ready day 1.

[PhantomDashCam]

:lol that fake ass “reporter” with 200 followers and a stock photo as his profile pic doesn’t know shit. Just some kid trolling from mom’s basement. Prob someone on this board tbh.

Without a doubt. I had to post it because it’s hilarious. He casts such a wide net, anyone in the top 10 is a Spurs target :lol

[FireMicoHalili]

Without a doubt. I had to post it because it’s hilarious. He casts such a wide net, anyone in the top 10 is a Spurs target :lol
being a "source" in the NBA is just flinging handfuls of shit and hoping it sticks lol I want to know their hit/miss rate. As always, a very unserious industry. You just know these Spurs content creators scrape these parts for material. Let's give them more asinine projections like picking Knecht at 4. I hear the Spurs are highly interested because he's old, white, and a shooter.

[kobyz]

Should we consider Carlton Carrington with the group of pg's who worth a look at #8? Not close to a finish product but his game reassemble andrew nembhard and has potential as a two way pg who is solid across all board

[exstatic]

I don't care about the age difference, I'd rather Carter over Castle. Better shooter (though there's some question as to the legitimacy given the lack of track record and middling free throw %), athlete and players bigger, as shown by his superior "event creation" numbers.

He reminds me of George Hill and De'Anthony Melton, an archetype that usually exceeds expectations (albeit alongside a big guard/wing primary ball handler).

The age difference is development that has already happened, and he’s still rated lower. He’s playing against younger less physically developed players. 22/23 year old players are frequently fools gold.

[exstatic]

Can someone explain to me why Clingan gets rated above Edey? There’s regular posts about Clingan possibly going top 3 and Edey rarely mentioned even in the lottery. At the combine Edey was bigger, faster, more agile, a better shooter. Plus he dominated their matchup in the NCAA championship.

Who won the game? Also, the NCAA hasn’t outlawed fighting through screens like the NBA, so every pick and roll is not a switch. Clingan plays a smart, sophisticated brand of ball on a team that went back to back. Edey is big.

[buttsR4rebounding]

Who won the game? Also, the NCAA hasn’t outlawed fighting through screens like the NBA, so every pick and roll is not a switch. Clingan plays a smart, sophisticated brand of ball on a team that went back to back. Edey is big.

If you switched Edey and Clingan UConn wins by 25 points and Purdue isn’t even there. Since Ex is the one who responded it makes me even more certain Edey will have the superior career.

[cutewizard]

Guys, this player seems interesting hmmmmmm

[kobyz]

I just realised, nikola topic is a 6'6" tj mcconnell

[CGD]

To our European friends, what’s the latest on Topic?

I feel like he will get levered up by the media machine the moment he does a workout. Still a LONG way to go before the draft.

[Bruno]

What are your thoughts on Dadiet? He seems like one of the more interesting upside swings that could be available around the 35th pick. Would a draft & stash for another year in Europe be an option, or would he want to go to the NBA immediately?

Dadiet is clearly a long term project. He is very young with nice tools: he is long (6'8" without shoes), smooth, can handle the ball and has a decent outside shoot. A lot of work will be needed to make him NBA material but there is an intriguing basis to work on.

I haven't heard if he would be fine with a draft&stash scenario but I doubt it. A two-way contract might also not be an option because he should have a buyout with his German team. I guess he would be looking at something similar to what Sidy Cissoko get: a standard NBA contract and playing almost the whole season in G-League. If the feedback from NBA teams isn't good, he should withdraw from this draft.

I'm not against picking him at #35 but it will depend a lot on whether or not Spurs have a roster spot for him. Will they pick a SF at #4 or #8? Are they sticking with Cissoko? Will they sign a vet SF in FA? ...

[TD 21]

The age difference is development that has already happened, and he’s still rated lower. He’s playing against younger less physically developed players. 22/23 year old players are frequently fools gold.

He's rated lower because he's older, shorter and played for a less prestigious program.

This is the same mistake people made that allowed the likes of Brogdon, Hart, White, Jaquez Jr., Podziemski, etc. to slip through the cracks.

I don't look at it that way. I look at it like, what's the likelihood that player X (in this case, Castle) is going to become what player Y (in this case, Carter) already projects as and I don't think it's high. Let's also not act like being 22 means one is a finished product.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXku82Nev_s

[SpursBills]

For people who want Castle at 4, what kind of shooting are you projecting him to have? As in, do you see him as an average to above average low volume catch-and-shoot 3 point guy like Okoro, or are you projecting him to be able to hit 3s off the dribble at a decent percentage as well? I 100% buy his defense and ability to play off-ball, and 75% buy his playmaking ability, but I'm looking for reasons to get over his shooting concerns.

For full disclosure, I have Sheppard/Castle as far and away my favorite draft combination for our 2 picks. I think they each have very high ceilings, usable floors, and actually synergize with each others' strengths and weaknesses extremely well when you play them together especially around a Wemby-centered motion offense.

[R. DeMurre]

Tristen Newton is such an interesting case-- he transfers to UConn as a senior and wins an NCAA Championship, then returns for a second season with them (due to the covid exception) and wins another championship, plus the Most Outstanding Player award for the tournament... there aren't too many guys out there who can say they started on back to back NCAA championship teams in this era. Not projected highly, but I hope he can carve out a situation where he makes it in the league as a back up PG for somebody.

[RC_Drunkford]

Drafting a back up big should not be out of the equation, since that's definitely a need we have on the team. We'd just have to dump Collins, but if Clingan is projected to be a Gobert type player you would have to seriously consider him if he falls to #8

[itzsoweezee]

Risacher haters are going to look really silly a year from now

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1794764934800085195

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1794780537501983062

[ChumpDumper]

Williams seems to be one of those "fluid" athletes at best while Holland looks like he's moving around on springs. I know they only show a couple makes but could the resident ST shot doctors tell me what's broken about Holland's jumper?

[heyheymymy]

Holland seems so sketchy to me. Topic, Buzelis, Holland are my big 3 to avoid imho and not saying they won't make it, in fact I could see each one carving out a value niche and could see Topic being a downright star. Just wary of the bust potential and medicals in Topic's case.

Holland actually looks fine there in that clip. Explosive athleticism and the shot mechanics looks admittedly sustainable. There was a big burst last week on media about his shot being literally "broken" and there was a shot chart of all forwards in the 2024 draft and they were almost all in the same range as a group of dots and then Holland was waaaaay off on his own in a quadrant of inefficiency on I believe FT% and 3G%. Adding insult to injury, considering Holland was playing G League doesn't it seem like he did less against even easier opposition compared to his peers?

Spurs are said to need shooting and I'm not sure how Holland fits that pursuit. Barring personnel changes I'm less inclined to desire Holland but I'm intrigued that at 6'8ish you could play him up at the 4 PF and just let him feast on cuts to the basket and fast break finishing/and-1s

[BackHome]

I am up and down on Holland as he clearly is one of the best athletes in this draft as Chump says it seems like he is moving on springs. But, as you mentioned when you start looking at his shooting and finishing they are some major concerns with his game. One of the biggest problems for him is he played for Ignite and that was a shit show as that team was not constructed or coached right. So you had him play a lot of PF in High School and then you had him switch to basically playing the point so you kind of saw what Sochan was going through when he was running the offense.

I agree I think he could be a guy who can come in and rebound and play really good defense and then run the floor and get some easy transition points and back door dunks. I think if you paired him with Sheppard that would be so much better for him and you could see a much better production and growth from him.

[Ariel]

Dadiet is clearly a long term project. He is very young with nice tools: he is long (6'8" without shoes), smooth, can handle the ball and has a decent outside shoot. A lot of work will be needed to make him NBA material but there is an intriguing basis to work on.

I haven't heard if he would be fine with a draft&stash scenario but I doubt it. A two-way contract might also not be an option because he should have a buyout with his German team. I guess he would be looking at something similar to what Sidy Cissoko get: a standard NBA contract and playing almost the whole season in G-League. If the feedback from NBA teams isn't good, he should withdraw from this draft.

I'm not against picking him at #35 but it will depend a lot on whether or not Spurs have a roster spot for him. Will they pick a SF at #4 or #8? Are they sticking with Cissoko? Will they sign a vet SF in FA? ...
Thanks. Intriguing prospect but, like you said, Spurs are likely to find themselves in a roster crunch sooner rather than later and that complicates things. The clock is ticking to put together a competent roster around Wemby, multiple lottery picks are coming in (2 this year, 2-4 next year) plus there's a bunch of developing guys on the roster (Branham, Wesley, Barlow, Cissoko) so I'm not sure how much room for 2nd round long term projects there is.

Personally, I think we're closing in on a decision on Wesley and Branham, if the team doesn't see progress I wouldn't be surprised if they don't pick up their 4th year option and deal them by the trade deadline. As for Sidy, there's a lot to like about him, but the extent to which his shot is broken is concerning, I'd give him another year with the specific mandate to work on it and see how far along he is a year from now, if he doesn't show any progress it'll be difficult to justify continued investment in in a hopeless shooter (same goes for Wesley especially).

So all in all this wouldn't rule out Dadiet for me but it'd take some of the appeal to draft him, when perhaps you can find other guys at that spot who are more ready to contribut right away (Karaban, KJ Simpson, Ajay Mitchell, etc).

[Ariel]

Williams seems to be one of those "fluid" athletes at best while Holland looks like he's moving around on springs. I know they only show a couple makes but could the resident ST shot doctors tell me what's broken about Holland's jumper?
Well, Blake Wesley's highlights could make you believe he was a good shooter too. But when you dig a bit deeper:

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.

[ChumpDumper]

Well, Blake Wesley's highlights could make you believe he was a good shooter too. But when you dig a bit deeper:Yeah, I saw that.

I'm asking what's actually broken.

[Degoat]

I’m still back and forth on the 4th pick, I’m leaning Castle or Dillingham. At 8 I’m starting to become pretty firm on drafting Tidjane Salaun, a lot of upside and honestly has played solid as of late.

[offset formation]

I just want a dog on defense. Can't afford anymore Keldon's on the roster at this juncture.

[rascal]

For people who want Castle at 4, what kind of shooting are you projecting him to have? As in, do you see him as an average to above average low volume catch-and-shoot 3 point guy like Okoro, or are you projecting him to be able to hit 3s off the dribble at a decent percentage as well? I 100% buy his defense and ability to play off-ball, and 75% buy his playmaking ability, but I'm looking for reasons to get over his shooting concerns.

For full disclosure, I have Sheppard/Castle as far and away my favorite draft combination for our 2 picks. I think they each have very high ceilings, usable floors, and actually synergize with each others' strengths and weaknesses extremely well when you play them together especially around a Wemby-centered motion offense.

You aren't drafting Castle for his shooting
but his shooting/offensive game should be good enough to keep him on the floor bringing the positive skills to the team that you drafted him for.

[Biggems]

At this time I want

Castle
Holland
Dillon Jones
Newton

UDFA Dante, Ingram

[TD 21]

You aren't drafting Castle for his shooting
but his shooting/offensive game should be good enough to keep him on the floor bringing the positive skills to the team that you drafted him for.

Apparently they're almost never drafting anyone for their shooting here . . . it's only the most important skill in the game and a longtime area of need.

I can't tell you how many of this archetype or a similar one get played off the floor (unless you have shooting everywhere else to where they can function as a roller/in the dunker spot) every year in the playoffs because their lack of shooting eventually overshadows their defense and whatever else.

[Mnky]

I saw Devin Carter as a trade down possibility, then I saw the spurs are interested in him at 8.

Kid is the type of competitor you want next to Wemby. Great defense, great reach, great rebounder and Just tough as nails. Looks like he has a legit shot and his timing and awareness are sorely needed with the spurs squad.

Feel like he's another Derrick White Combo type. And he has the hairline to compete.

[Knoxxx]

Apparently they're almost never drafting anyone for their shooting here . . . it's only the most important skill in the game and a longtime area of need.

I can't tell you how many of this archetype or a similar one get played off the floor (unless you have shooting everywhere else to where they can function as a roller/in the dunker spot) every year in the playoffs because their lack of shooting eventually overshadows their defense and whatever else.

you only have to shoot better than one guy

[Degoat]

I saw Devin Carter as a trade down possibility, then I saw the spurs are interested in him at 8.

Kid is the type of competitor you want next to Wemby. Great defense, great reach, great rebounder and Just tough as nails. Looks like he has a legit shot and his timing and awareness are sorely needed with the spurs squad.

Feel like he's another Derrick White Combo type. And he has the hairline to compete.


Im starting to really really like Devin Carter! If we grab him at 8, do you think we go with a wing with the 4th pick?

[spurraider21]

Im starting to really really like Devin Carter! If we grab him at 8, do you think we go with a wing with the 4th pick?
Unfortunately you have to make the 4th pick before you know who you are getting at 8

[Mnky]

Im starting to really really like Devin Carter! If we grab him at 8, do you think we go with a wing with the 4th pick?

Yea, I think wing is early unless they just love one of these pgs. They're all so close in scale as far as pros and cons, I don't think they'd be upset with any left over from other teams. I felt Riss would be the pic but dont see him getting pass the top 4. You do have a few high upside guys there.

8 might be too high for Carter, but he's been steadily
Moving up boards. There isn't a lot of distance between the mid to late draft so I wouldn't mind him at 8 at all. Still think he's more likely to go a little later so that's why I figured he'd be a good trade down guys

[PhantomDashCam]

Williams seems to be one of those "fluid" athletes at best while Holland looks like he's moving around on springs. I know they only show a couple makes but could the resident ST shot doctors tell me what's broken about Holland's jumper?

This is one person's opinion mind you but I saw something similar.

1794850577001918572

I'd also add that he has that "Street Fighter 1/4 Circle - Hadouken" motion leading into the shot which I believe leads to inconsistencies upon release ie. two shots are never really the same.

[Atl Spur]

Unfortunately you have to make the 4th pick before you know who you are getting at 8

Classic raider….. no shit Sherlock!

[heyheymymy]

This is one person's opinion mind you but I saw something similar.

1794850577001918572

I'd also add that he has that "Street Fighter 1/4 Circle - Hadouken" motion leading into the shot which I believe leads to inconsistencies upon release ie. two shots are never really the same.

Wow that is wonky as f. He does flick it really fast in the clip so you almost don't see it but that freeze frame is damning

[CGD]

This is one person's opinion mind you but I saw something similar.

1794850577001918572

I'd also add that he has that "Street Fighter 1/4 Circle - Hadouken" motion leading into the shot which I believe leads to inconsistencies upon release ie. two shots are never really the same.

Who wore it best?

https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/hornets-michael-kidd-gilchrist-jump-shot-form-shooting-percent-mark-price/1wdg5n9soy9hx1enqcq4tgnixm

[heyheymymy]

Holland has a jumpshot almost like mkg did

[CGD]

For people who want Castle at 4, what kind of shooting are you projecting him to have? As in, do you see him as an average to above average low volume catch-and-shoot 3 point guy like Okoro, or are you projecting him to be able to hit 3s off the dribble at a decent percentage as well? I 100% buy his defense and ability to play off-ball, and 75% buy his playmaking ability, but I'm looking for reasons to get over his shooting concerns.

For full disclosure, I have Sheppard/Castle as far and away my favorite draft combination for our 2 picks. I think they each have very high ceilings, usable floors, and actually synergize with each others' strengths and weaknesses extremely well when you play them together especially around a Wemby-centered motion offense.

Many of us are looking at the 75% FT shooting as hope that the shooting potential is there. It’s also why some of us can’t quit Topic, but that’s another story.

So long as Wemby and Vassell are the offensive hubs, I’m not expecting him to be doing the Luka step backs or anything. Catch and shoot would be nice.

[Biggems]

Just hire a shooting coach and put Holland in the gym until the season starts

[BackHome]

One thing players need to be aware is that Wemby is going to want to eat meaning he is going to want his offensive touches. So Castle is a perfect fit for him as he all ready played and won a Championship with a big so we know that has a good chance of caring over to the next level.

[BackHome]

Just hire a shooting coach and put Holland in the gym until the season starts

Him and Sarr probably have the highest upside in this draft if he can fix his shooting your looking at a number 2 on a Playoff team.

[Degoat]

One thing players need to be aware is that Wemby is going to want to eat meaning he is going to want his offensive touches. So Castle is a perfect fit for him as he all ready played and won a Championship with a big so we know that has a good chance of caring over to the next level.

That’s one of the reasons I wonder if will be out on Topic… everyone thinks the spurs need a dominant play maker but really we just need someone who can space the floor, play D, and give wemby the ball lol

[PhantomDashCam]

Just hire a shooting coach and put Holland in the gym until the season starts

It's probably why he has the most variance on Mock Draft boards across the process.

He arguably has the best physical tools in the draft and if you're thinking the shot is correctable, or he can shoot it solidly enough as it is;
you're having considerations for him being a Top three guy.

I just don't see the shot ever becoming serviceable enough (and I've been wrong on this in the past eg. LaMelo Ball), or him be willing to re-build it if that is what is required.

[Mr. Body]

Just hire a shooting coach and put Holland in the gym until the season starts

I wonder why no one's thought of having him practice jump shots before.

[Chomag]

I'm really warming up to the idea of getting Castle at 4. He has all the tools and a reliable jump shot away from being a rational player. Looking at everyone else he is the only one with enough ceiling to be in that category.

Yeah, this draft kinda sucka

[Chomag]

Castle kinda reminds me of a young Jimmy Butler

[Mr. Body]

Someone was asking about Castle's jump shot. I believe in his shot more than I do Sochan's, and Jeremy's is improvable, he just seems to be targeting the basket more than shooting in rhythm. Castle shoots pretty well from spots above the break. His motion, the form, all look pretty good. I think he can develop it. Will he be a knockdown shooter? Probably not. Will he keep defenses honest? I think so. My question is more about how relatively deliberate and slow he is attacking the rim. He's not going to get there at will. But with Wemby's gravity and other actions, he's gonna know where to cut and how things work.

Otherwise he's exactly what would be great in the Spurs system. His rotations and man defense will be excellent to exceptional. Navigates picks extremely well, just dogged and relentless on that end. On offense, he'll be able to make quick reads and reactions, move the ball, do the right things. He won't take a long time to figure things out. He has special capabilities like being a really strong screener for a guard, meaning you can possibly even have him screen for Wemby or others to get things going.

Only real question I have with him is his mentality. Is he a secret diva who wants the ball in his hands a lot? Is he going to get irritable if he doesn't? If he's not a lunatic and simply means he doesn't want to be defense-only next to a guy like LaMello Ball, that he'll be energized playing in a strong motion system where he'll have every opportunity to read and react, then he's the player to get in this draft.

And not because it's a bad draft. Without their hype, he could have pushed Scoot and the Thompsons last year for spots. It wouldn't be surprising to see him impacting the league more than they do in five to eight years.

[SpursBills]

I wanted to try and get a better idea for Stephon Castle's shooting prospects and the odds that he'd be a decent shooter. People cite his FT% often, but using that as a sole factor seems inaccurate. For me at least, trying to get an understanding of "touch" and 3 point accuracy looks at 4 factors - FT%, college 3 pt%, college 3 pt volume, and college midrange %. That said, Castle scores poorly in 3/4 categories - while his FT% is acceptable, his 3 point % (27), 3 point volume (75) and midrange accuracy (35%) are extremely worrisome to me. Looking at these factors, I would expect that he would not project to be a good shooter moving forward.

These are the results of a quick database search. I used Bart torvik to look for all 1st round draft picks (excluding bigs) in the last 17 years with the following:
FT% > 75
Midrange % < 40
3 point volume < 100
3 pt % < 30

Of the 17 hits, there were 3 guys who ended up turning into good shooters by their pre-draft season and then obviously became good NBA shooters
Buddy Hield (Fr), Jalen Williams (So), Mikal Bridges (Fr)

Of the 14 others, 6/14 became league average or better shooters:
Kawhi, Alec Burks, Oladipo, Delon Wright, Grant Williams, Pascal Siakam

Unfortunately, the 8/14 other players who did not become league average or better shooters all busted or are on their way out of the league

If we turn the FT filter down to 72%, we add Jaden Ivey, Kobe Brown, De'aaron Fox, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, and Jeff Taylor; none of these 5 are what I would call good shooters, although maybe there is some hope for Fox and Ivey in the future

So these results actually are more optimistic for Castle than I would have thought. I basically assumed that he had virtually zero chance of becoming an acceptable shooter with his metrics, but in truth I think that there is some precedent that he can get to at least league average. That may be enough if he is used more as a secondary creating POA defender like Jalen Suggs. However, this list also suggests that if he does not develop into a league average shooter, there is a decent chance he will bust out of the league along the likes of Nassir Little and MKG.

[Knoxxx]

Latest mock:

4: Dilly
8: Castle

[Mr. Body]

Latest mock:

4: Dilly
8: Castle

Make it so.