2024 NBA Draft Thread

[Duncan2177]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqSA-7RyqIE

[BatManu20]

New nytimes mock has us taking Buzelis at 4 and Carter at 8.

Sarr, Risacher, and Castle go 1-2-3


https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/)

[Mr. Body]

Pretty fascinating draft in what's not being said and how little we know.

[SpursFan86]

Pretty fascinating draft in what's not being said and how little we know.

Yeah, feels like pretty much anything is in play…only thing that truly seems like a lock is Sarr going top 2.

[DPG21920]

New nytimes mock has us taking Buzelis at 4 and Carter at 8.

Sarr, Risacher, and Castle go 1-2-3


https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/)

I hope we take Reed if that’s how it breaks tbh…I would rather have Reed/Holland or Reed/Cody than Buzelis/Carter

[4lifecowboy]

Would love that....

[4lifecowboy]

New nytimes mock has us taking Buzelis at 4 and Carter at 8.

Sarr, Risacher, and Castle go 1-2-3


https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/)

Would love that...

[exstatic]

Pretty fascinating draft in what's not being said and how little we know.

Pretty normal, if you’re a Spurs fan.

[Mr. Body]

Pretty normal, if you’re a Spurs fan.

I mean overall.

[spurraider21]

New nytimes mock has us taking Buzelis at 4 and Carter at 8.

Sarr, Risacher, and Castle go 1-2-3


https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/ (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/)
i'd be pretty unenthused with that outcome

[TD 21]

Most likely selections . . .

Tier 1: Castle, Salaun
Tier 2: Carter, Williams
Tier 3: Sheppard, Buzelis.

[PhantomDashCam]

Some interesting tidbits in that latest Yahoo mock…

Buzelis: His draft range is anywhere from 5-10, with the Pistons likely considering Buzelis, Cody Williams or Tidjane Salaun to add length along the perimeter.

Dillingham: But what's giving teams pause is his work on the defensive end, where he has average footwork and difficulty staying in front of players.

Yves Missi: Missi's draft range is anywhere from 14-21 with his upside as a rim-running big who has a budding pick-and-pop game.

Jakobe Walter: Walter's pre-draft process has been kept under wraps, and anytime that happens teams are likely trying to withhold information so he drops and is available when they pick. He recently worked out for Detroit and Portland and will be an option at 12 if the Thunder choose to keep the pick.

[Mr. Body]

Some interesting tidbits in that latest Yahoo mock…

Buzelis: His draft range is anywhere from 5-10, with the Pistons likely considering Buzelis, Cody Williams or Tidjane Salaun to add length along the perimeter.

Dillingham: But what's giving teams pause is his work on the defensive end, where he has average footwork and difficulty staying in front of players.

Yves Missi: Missi's draft range is anywhere from 14-21 with his upside as a rim-running big who has a budding pick-and-pop game.

Jakobe Walter: Walter's pre-draft process has been kept under wraps, and anytime that happens teams are likely trying to withhold information so he drops and is available when they pick. He recently worked out for Detroit and Portland and will be an option at 12 if the Thunder choose to keep the pick.




I think Buzelis could go top 3 or 4, if Houston trades.

There's something else going on with Dillingham. His defense is a known quality. He's the same mold of player, with the same size and defensive issues, as Darius Garland and Trae Young, who each went #5 in their drafts.

[LeBowen]

I think Buzelis could go top 3 or 4, if Houston trades.

There's something else going on with Dillingham. His defense is a known quality. He's the same mold of player, with the same size and defensive issues, as Darius Garland and Trae Young, who each went #5 in their drafts.

It's just the draft order.

Hawks have Trae.
Pistons have Cade and desperately need some wings.
Hornets have Lamelo and also need defense.
Blazers have a roster full of guards, with #2 pick from last being a 6'2 PG.
Grizzlies have Ja.
Jazz have Sexton and Keyonte George.
Bulls have Coby White.
Kings have Fox and need wings.

Wizards at #2 would be a reach. And they have Poole who surely made them lose at least some faith in high volume scorers.
Rockets have FVV and Udoka probably doesn't want undersized guards.
Spurs have been searching for guards with size for years.
Thunder have been doing the same.
Heat have #15 pick, idk if he's a Heat culture guy.

That's the entire lottery.
Spurs are the only roster that would actually be a good fit for Dillingham type player.
Considering how good PATFO are at keeping everything under wraps, I don't trust any of these reports about their preferences.
And I'm not ruling out any player except for bigs.

[Mr. Body]

It's just the draft order.

Hawks have Trae.
Pistons have Cade and desperately need some wings.
Hornets have Lamelo and also need defense.
Blazers have a roster full of guards, with #2 pick from last being a 6'2 PG.
Grizzlies have Ja.
Jazz have Sexton and Keyonte George.
Bulls have Coby White.
Kings have Fox and need wings.

Wizards at #2 would be a reach. And they have Poole who surely made them lose at least some faith in high volume scorers.
Rockets have FVV and Udoka probably doesn't want undersized guards.
Spurs have been searching for guards with size for years.
Thunder have been doing the same.
Heat have #15 pick, idk if he's a Heat culture guy.

That's the entire lottery.
Spurs are the only roster that would actually be a good fit for Dillingham type player.
Considering how good PATFO are at keeping everything under wraps, I don't trust any of these reports about their preferences.
And I'm not ruling out any player except for bigs.

Probably right, but that's not the narrative so far, as if the narrative matters too much.

I still think Washington and Detroit should heavily consider Dillingham. I get that Washington is probably too high and they have so many chuckers already. A Dillingham can get them stuck in John Wall territory, just good enough to be less than good. Detroit is completely senseless to me. If you need a scorer with gravity to play next to Cade who can be covered by good defense from the likes of Ausar, then a great small scoring guard is totally fine, probably even better than stretching on a non-shooting wing. Jaden Ivey shouldn't change anybody's opinions.

Do think there's some subtlety going under the surface. Normally with a week to go, the draft world starts hearing about certain players being "better rated than expected," as a way to prime fans for unexpected players to be taken. (Coulibaly last year.) No team is tipping their hand. Good likelihood that decisions won't be made until near the night itself.

I do find it interesting that we've heard the Spurs working out only three players (of non-fringe SRP types). The two Frenchies Risacher and Salaun are mostly expected. Devin Carter might have been an accidental leak (if not surprising). It's gonna be a fascinating night.

[Uriel]

More and more mocks have us taking Buzelis. :stirpot:

[ace3g]

It’s no surprise that Devin Carter impressed in a private workout for the Spurs this past week, according to league sources.

2024 NBA mock draft for lottery teams: Is Alexandre Sarr still favored to go No. 1? - The Athletic (nytimes.com) (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/?source=emp_shared_article)

[BatManu20]

i'd be pretty unenthused with that outcome

Not my first choice either but could be worse I guess. I don't see Spurs taking Carter at 8 if Salaun is still on the board though tbh. Only think he's an option if Tidjane's gone. Could be wrong, but I think they'll be too enamored with the size/upside/French-connection with Wemby.

[heyheymymy]

plz no buzelis

[SpursFan86]

1802817051247202687

Clingan rumors really ramping up.

[BatManu20]

Smokescreen tbh, though it's not even a necessary one. I really don't see them raking Clingan over Sarr. 20 years ago maybe, but not in 2024. Would be pretty shocking.

[Mr. Body]

Smokescreen tbh, though it's not even a necessary one. I really don't see them raking Clingan over Sarr. 20 years ago maybe, but not in 2024. Would be pretty shocking.

Clingan is straight up better than Sarr and is going to be ready right away.

[chunticakes]

plz no buzelis

I don't even know who this guy is. Timvp didn't do a write up on him did he?

[Mnky]

Buz and Carter would be great for Wemby. Both project to be defensive stalwarts. Buz is more potential but still has evidence to support as well. Both have great length and are both comfortable with off ball movement and shooting.

They're also hussle players that are great on the break.

Another great attribute is they're both tough and always talk about improving for the team.

Anyone can blow up or bust, but these two would be a net positive and designed players for Wemby on paper.

I'd be excited for that draft outcome.They're both two players that are fun to watch play. If nothing else, they'd make tank year 2 much more bearable.

[CGD]

Pretty fascinating draft in what's not being said and how little we know.

Wonder how much of it is that key FO at the top of the draft are also changing: WAS, DET, CHA. And they’re also trying to pick a new direction? Add to that that ATL didn’t expect to find themselves at 1.

[rascal]

4. Castle
8. Topic
11. Salaun (Trade with the Bulls) What package would the Spurs send?

I can see the Spurs trying to get this out of the draft.

[CGD]

1802817051247202687

Clingan rumors really ramping up.

Snyder apparently really likes him. I know they’re hoping someone trades up so they can get him later, but I don’t think there will be takers. That’s a complete ATL wet dream.

[LeBowen]

Those picks are actually going to be amazing.
Taking Clingan with #1 pick. :lmao

[Mr. Body]

Those picks are actually going to be amazing.
Taking Clingan with #1 pick. :lmao

Taking Clingan is no stupider than taking Sarr or Risacher. You're just infected with conventional bias that really ought to be questioned. Risacher and Sarr are very much not automatically top 2 players.

[LeBowen]

Taking Clingan is no stupider than taking Sarr or Risacher. You're just infected with conventional bias that really ought to be questioned. Risacher and Sarr are very much not automatically top 2 players.

They're not.
But Jakob Poeltl 2.0 isn't going to help them much with all the issues they have.
If he even becomes Jakob and not Alex Len.

[Mr. Body]

They're not.
But Jakob Poeltl 2.0 isn't going to help them much with all the issues they have.
If he even becomes Jakob and not Alex Len.

They can't solve their problems with this pick. Their best bet is probably trading down and getting more than one player, but I doubt anyone's biting.

[ulosturedge]

The pick for the Spurs at #4 assuming they don't trade out of the spot is Sheppard, Clingan, Castle, or an outside shot that Risacher will be there at 4.

[DAF86]

It’s no surprise that Devin Carter impressed in a private workout for the Spurs this past week, according to league sources.

2024 NBA mock draft for lottery teams: Is Alexandre Sarr still favored to go No. 1? - The Athletic (nytimes.com) (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5565164/2024/06/17/nba-mock-draft/?source=emp_shared_article)

Carter, Mcain, Carrington. The Spurs might get better value at the mid teens than 8th, tbh. What trade possibility is there to get down to that range?

[spurraider21]

They're not.
But Jakob Poeltl 2.0 isn't going to help them much with all the issues they have.
If he even becomes Jakob and not Alex Len.
no one pick is going to help "all the issues they have"

[Raven]

They're not.
But Jakob Poeltl 2.0 isn't going to help them much with all the issues they have.
If he even becomes Jakob and not Alex Len.

i don't really get the comparison, clingan is so much bigger

[Dejounte]

Random IG tidbits

Of all draftees

Sarr, Salaun, Castle, Risacher follow Wemby. Of these guys, Wemby only follows Sarr and Salaun.

Tony Parker is picky who he follows and only follows Wemby and Vassell from the current team. Of the draftees, he only follows Salaun. No Sarr or Risacher.

Rob Dillingham used to follow Wemby, but now he doesn’t. Wemby never gave him a follow.

[spurraider21]

i don't really get the comparison, clingan is so much bigger
yeah, while poodle was a good shotblocker who had good mobility for his size, he was never very strong and would often get bullied in the post by the likes of valanciunas, KAT, etc. was also never a good defensive rebounder

i think clingan is a similar archetype to poodle, but bigger/stronger. but he's not putting on many moves in the post, he's not stretching the floor (both solid passers tho), he's not switching onto guards. its kinda like poodle's game in brook lopez' body

[SOMA Spur]

Carter, Mcain, Carrington. The Spurs might get better value at the mid teens than 8th, tbh. What trade possibility is there to get down to that range?

Yahoo's latest mock added another trio to the mid teens - 16. Dilli, 17. Holland, 18. Topic. Somebody nice is going to slide. As far as a trade? Not sure either team would bite, but an entertaining one is with Portland, trading #4 for #7 + #14. Who would you pick with 7, 8, 14? I'll take Carter (I'm pretty high on him), Saluan (I think he's the Spurs guy), then I'll grab Holland (before the Lakers get him). Not sure how high Portland is on Clingan or how realistic this scenario might be, but it makes for a fun Fanspo sim to see who slides to you at 14.

[DAF86]

Random IG tidbits

Of all draftees

Sarr, Salaun, Castle, Risacher follow Wemby. Of these guys, Wemby only follows Sarr and Salaun.

Tony Parker is picky who he follows and only follows Wemby and Vassell from the current team. Of the draftees, he only follows Salaun. No Sarr or Risacher.

Rob Dillingham used to follow Wemby, but now he doesn’t. Wemby never gave him a follow.

I fear TP is gonna make PATFO draft Salaun.

[Dejounte]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.

[spurraider21]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.
giannis had traits that were worth writing home about

he was tall, lanky with a huge wingspan and a good frame to add muscle. but he was also extremely athletic, and had a late growth spurt so he had the ball handling of a guard with the length of a forward. he had a lot of those coast to coast type plays on tape where he weaves, euro-stepped through traffic to finish at the rim. due to his handle there was a lot of room for upside with playmaking.

yes a lot of this seems like hindsight but go back and read pre-2013 draft scouting reports and they all say the same thing. they all harp on his insane athleticism, his ballhandling, and his defense. aside from the questions about competition, big question marks around giannis were his shooting, strength (but he was young/growing so this was seen as something that could be addressed), and defensive fundamentals, but he had also only been playing basketball for about 4-5 years at the time he was drafted, so the fact that he already showed the skill he had was eye opening

salaun has solid size/frame and is a willing shooter which is nice, but thats about all else we can see from him right now.

[Mr. Body]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.

We should draft every player with those marginal stats then.

[DAF86]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.

Sorry bro, but this is a downright awful argument. You can literally find similar stats of many prospects, many of which ended up being good players, and even more that ended up being bad players, and choose whichever you want, depending on the point you are trying to make. :lol

At the end of the day, Giannis was a lottery pick, so I guess there was a fair expectation of him being good, tbh.

If anything, with those % one would thought Giannis would develop into a better shooter, tbh.

[BackHome]

Regarding Salaun I think I brought him up 300 pages ago where I was looking at draft and stash a foreign player in the second round. I think he got a lot of buzz latter on because a lot of people were thinking he was this athletic SF "Kawhi" when in fact his position will be PF. He is OK, but to me he is very much like Sochan - as they are both players who play hard but are still very raw and going to take time to develop

[jesterbobman]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.

If I knew what I knew at the draft about Giannis, I think he'd be in a similar spot to Salaun as an upside bet with a huge deal of uncertainty (more upside for Giannis, even weaker stats profile), where the stats profile is bleugh, but the athletic profile is in the "If he hits, he's a STAR." If he was in, and it turned out well and we passed on him at 4 / 8, it'd look bad, but I think the process would be fine.

Giannis worked out, but there are a lot of athletes in lower levels that get drafted based on hope (Bruno!!!), stats processes are based on general success in transforming into a high level player at the next level, though a lot of draft stats guys will also get to there being value in taking a swing on an uber athlete (especially when you consider less than ideal nutrition / training environment, bits of feel, etc).

If Ron Holland had the stats profile of Reed (or, quality, but a different level of stats star), he'd be so comfortably #1 that there wouldn't be a debate. This draft has odd stats darlings who seem less than ideal from a body / athletic profile standpoint (Reed, Clingan, Edey), and most people can think that even though they might be the top in a stats only board, assessing their profiles as prospects makes them more top 5 - top 25 prospects, rather than the clear top 3.

[Dejounte]

giannis had traits that were worth writing home about

he was tall, lanky with a huge wingspan and a good frame to add muscle. but he was also extremely athletic, and had a late growth spurt so he had the ball handling of a guard with the length of a forward. he had a lot of those coast to coast type plays on tape where he weaves, euro-stepped through traffic to finish at the rim. due to his handle there was a lot of room for upside with playmaking.

yes a lot of this seems like hindsight but go back and read pre-2013 draft scouting reports and they all say the same thing. they all harp on his insane athleticism, his ballhandling, and his defense. aside from the questions about competition, big question marks around giannis were his shooting, strength (but he was young/growing so this was seen as something that could be addressed), and defensive fundamentals, but he had also only been playing basketball for about 4-5 years at the time he was drafted, so the fact that he already showed the skill he had was eye opening

salaun has solid size/frame and is a willing shooter which is nice, but thats about all else we can see from him right now.


Sorry bro, but this is a downright awful argument. You can literally find similar stats of many prospects, many of which ended up being good players, and even more that ended up being bad players, and choose whichever you want, depending on the point you are trying to make. :lol

At the end of the day, Giannis was a lottery pick, so I guess there was a fair expectation of him being good, tbh.

If anything, with those % one would thought Giannis would develop into a better shooter, tbh.

Let me clarify why I made my post.

People here are hyper-focused on a single stat (specifically 3pt shooting) because of the current state of the NBA and/ or the current needs of this Spurs team. They’ll look at that single number and be ultra dismissive about anything else that player can bring.

“HeS a BaD sHoOtEr tHo. I dOnT waNt HiM”

Come on. A lot of folks are guilty of this.

The post really had nothing to do with Salaun. Although the more I watch, the more I see flashes of why he could be special. This post could actually be more about Matas than Salaun because Matas legitimately shows a nice skillset and nice fluidity that players his size don’t normally have… like Giannis.

and goddamn is Mr Body fucking annoying.

[objective]

I fear TP is gonna make PATFO draft Salaun.

Parker worked his magic getting the Spurs to sign Lauvergne .... Can lightning strike twice?

[Dejounte]

https://youtu.be/nOmE3pcCMnc?feature=shared

The possession at 48:21… quite utterly ridiculous. That is what a star looks like. Plain as day.

[mo7888]

https://youtu.be/nOmE3pcCMnc?feature=shared

The possession at 48:21… quite utterly ridiculous. That is what a star looks like. Plain as day.

Quite possibly has the best future of any player in this draft..

[ChumpDumper]

I fear TP is gonna make PATFO draft Salaun.

:lol what leverage does he have? It would be Wemby to blame if anyone.

Matas/Carter wouldn't be the worst outcome, I guess. At least one will probably become an NBA player.

[rascal]

Yahoo's latest mock added another trio to the mid teens - 16. Dilli, 17. Holland, 18. Topic. Somebody nice is going to slide. As far as a trade? Not sure either team would bite, but an entertaining one is with Portland, trading #4 for #7 + #14. Who would you pick with 7, 8, 14? I'll take Carter (I'm pretty high on him), Saluan (I think he's the Spurs guy), then I'll grab Holland (before the Lakers get him). Not sure how high Portland is on Clingan or how realistic this scenario might be, but it makes for a fun Fanspo sim to see who slides to you at 14.

Why would the Spurs want an extra pick in this draft at the expense of getting one of their top selections at 4?

[rascal]

I fear TP is gonna make PATFO draft Salaun.

Almost a guarantee Salaun will be drafted at 8.

[DAF86]

Almost a guarantee Salaun will be drafted at 8.

How would you know? :lol

[DAF86]

If the Spurs draft Castle at 4 and Salaun at 8, they better hope at least one of them pans out because it would be a really bad strategy not to draft at least one prosepct with a better shooting outlook.

[rascal]

If the Spurs draft Castle at 4 and Salaun at 8, they better hope at least one of them pans out because it would be a really bad strategy not to draft at least one prosepct with a better shooting outlook.

Why? they'll get their all stars and shooters in next year's draft. This is not a finished product of a team after this draft.

[DAF86]

Why? they'll get their all stars and shooters in next year's draft. This is not a finished product of a team after this draft.

If Castle and Salaun don't become stars then they better learn how to fucking shoot. Non-shooting role players are a thing of the past, if you aren't a center.

[Uriel]

1802817051247202687

Clingan rumors really ramping up.
Please. And Sarr at #2 and Sheppard at #3.

[SpursFan86]

Please. And Sarr at #2 and Sheppard at #3.

Swap out Sheppard for Risacher and that’s the ideal start.

(I don’t mind Risacher at 4 either, but just prefer Sheppard…either way Clingan going top 3 would be great for us)

[CGD]

I actually think this latest Yahoo draft could be the way it shaped up: https://sports.yahoo.com/2024-nba-mock-draft-90-a-new-name-in-the-mix-at-no-1-plus-the-latest-projections-for-every-pick-142340610.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAMFSoHm_lujSvCSPQHNN9yhiAeJ5 n6l14QjxvlZSHOaGGHZIicQ9ufwHdV_Bck_nPAJfR6_MJ4nov2 BIX4zwxa4PDJv54Zd5Th7uRebf5hqlukzP7nOPZs8mNbpnocPl QadkIMvfk77wfwykuZAL_0Fj9jpwB-TeMOfH-xAKG2hO

[Pauleta14]

Parker worked his magic getting the Spurs to sign Lauvergne .... Can lightning strike twice?

Did he for real? :lol

[Degoat]

I really hope the spurs come away with either Castle or Carter

[intlspurshk]

I hope the spurs trade no 4 or 8 pick to 2025 unprotected first round pick. There is no one worth to draft at the 4th pick

[Vienna]

I don't get why so many people are obsessed with the number the pick has written on. you have a pool of player available and you hope to get those you like.

constantly whining about how bad the pool is doesn't change anything and if it was in fact that bad, why would any team buy a pick in this draft?

I hope Spurs end up with two out of Risacher, Castle and Cody and if not, I will be happy with a consolation prize out of Sheppard and McCain.

(I just envision the meltdown if Spurs came out with Cody and McCain........while I would be pretty cool with that outcome)

[RC_Drunkford]

if we can get NOLA's first for a bunch of seconds we gotta make that trade. That's exactly why you accumulate second round picks, to turn them into firsts. They can then look at packaging them for a player. Much better than selling seconds for cash.

[exstatic]

Giannis stats pre-draft
7.9 ppg
5.2 reb
1.4 ast
1.5 tos
44.4 fg%
33.9 3pt%
70.4% ft%

would Spurstalk pass on Giannis today?

Note: I’m not comparing Giannis to anybody in this draft. I’m pointing out the nitpicking that posters do when it comes to meaningless numbers.

He’s so skinny! He plays in a crap league!

[Dejounte]

He’s so skinny! He plays in a crap league!

this definitely applies to the gleague as well. People are very unforgiving to a 17 year kid who made a bad choice to go to a league they thought would be best for them. When that environment doesn’t support their development, it’s apparently the kid’s fault and people look past their skills just because he’s in the gleague. The kid is still a basketball player at the end of the day and one spoiled year of mediocre growth isn’t going to change how talented they are.

[exstatic]

I hope the spurs trade no 4 or 8 pick to 2025 unprotected first round pick. There is no one worth to draft at the 4th pick

No one is doing that trade from the other side. I’m not sure you could get a top 10 protected 2025 FRP. I’m not even sure you could get a lottery protected 2025 FRP.

[exstatic]

this definitely applies to the gleague as well. People are very unforgiving to a 17 year kid who made a bad choice to go to a league they thought would be best for them. When that environment doesn’t support their development, it’s apparently the kid’s fault and people look past their skills just because he’s in the gleague. The kid is still a basketball player at the end of the day and one spoiled year of mediocre growth isn’t going to change how talented they are.
The problem with the gleague Ignite Is that there’s really no development at all going on, and no coaching. Scoot gpt worse from year one to year two. If you’re a top recruit, you could have made more NIL money than your Ignite salary, and that’s been the case for a few years, so it basically boils down to selecting playing unproductive AAU style ball over being developed and coached in the NCAA, a low friction short cut.

[Dejounte]

My problem with Buzelis, by the way, is how he carries himself off the court. I don’t mind it personally, but he seems like an unserious, silly kid. A few words from him and you can easily identify him as a “Fortnite kid”. On the court, he seems a lot different and actually seems very competitive. I just don’t know if the Spurs will view him as a locker room fit. But maybe drafting Salaun at 8 will keep him on his toes and force him to act more professional. I don’t question his work ethic, just his maturity level. I’m not saying I definitively know what goes in his head nor am I making an absolute judgment on his character, these are just observations that may end up wrong.

For now, I think Buzelis at 4 and Salaun at 8 seems ideal to me. Homerun swings that could pay off huge dividends if it hits.

[Dejounte]

The problem with the gleague Ignite Is that there’s really no development at all going on, and no coaching. Scoot gpt worse from year one to year two. If you’re a top recruit, you could have made more NIL money than your Ignite salary, and that’s been the case for a few years, so it basically boils down to selecting playing unproductive AAU style ball over being developed and coached in the NCAA, a low friction short cut.

Again, it’s one year. Scoot is a special example, but other than him, these prospects spent one year there. I’m not going to damn them and be fully dismissive of their talent because of one bad decision to go to the gleague. Period.

[exstatic]

Again, it’s one year. Scoot is a special example, but other than him, these prospects spent one year there. I’m not going to damn them and be fully dismissive of their talent because of one bad decision to go to the gleague. Period.

And that of course, is your prerogative. I’m simply trying to explain the “other side”.

[Mr. Peabody]

I just want at least one player who can shoot to create space for Wemby.

[exstatic]

I just want at least one player who can shoot to create space for Wemby.

If you’re looking for a specialist, you can get that in FA. No need to waste a high lottery pick.

[cutewizard]

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

[Extra Stout]

All this wild swinging back and forth speculating which team is going to draft whom where is only very tenuously tethered to teams’ real thought processes, which are probably a lot more methodical and stable.

[Pauleta14]

My problem with Buzelis, by the way, is how he carries himself off the court. I don’t mind it personally, but he seems like an unserious, silly kid. A few words from him and you can easily identify him as a “Fortnite kid”. On the court, he seems a lot different and actually seems very competitive. I just don’t know if the Spurs will view him as a locker room fit. But maybe drafting Salaun at 8 will keep him on his toes and force him to act more professional. I don’t question his work ethic, just his maturity level. I’m not saying I definitively know what goes in his head nor am I making an absolute judgment on his character, these are just observations that may end up wrong.

For now, I think Buzelis at 4 and Salaun at 8 seems ideal to me. Homerun swings that could pay off huge dividends if it hits.

Same impression. Each interview of him I watch, I see a frat boy/daddy's spoiled kid. Not a focuses kid who wants to destroy everything.

It could just be a wrong impression tbh. I just have a bad feeling with him and I'm suprised his pesonnality and interviews are used an an argument in his favour by many (KOC in particular who finds "great" the fact that Buzelis went at Risacher earlier this season...smh)

[Dex]

All this wild swinging back and forth speculating which team is going to draft whom where is only very tenuously tethered to teams’ real thought processes, which are probably a lot more methodical and stable.

It's why I don't really engage in any draft discussions. Props to all the people in this thread who have put in the time and effort to research and form opinions, but at the end of the day...it's all speculation and the Spurs have always had a history of surprising us unless it's the #1 pick.

I'll just wait until draft day and see what we end up with before I start with my own wild prognostications.

I will say that I am against the Spurs packaging 4 and 8 to move up. I'd rather take two swings in a wild draft than try to bet on what they may think is a sure thing...sure things rarely exist in the NBA draft.

[DAF86]

My problem with Buzelis, by the way, is how he carries himself off the court. I don’t mind it personally, but he seems like an unserious, silly kid. A few words from him and you can easily identify him as a “Fortnite kid”. On the court, he seems a lot different and actually seems very competitive. I just don’t know if the Spurs will view him as a locker room fit. But maybe drafting Salaun at 8 will keep him on his toes and force him to act more professional. I don’t question his work ethic, just his maturity level. I’m not saying I definitively know what goes in his head nor am I making an absolute judgment on his character, these are just observations that may end up wrong.

For now, I think Buzelis at 4 and Salaun at 8 seems ideal to me. Homerun swings that could pay off huge dividends if it hits.

Doubling down on the same position with the same question marks doesn't seem like the best strategy, tbh.

[spurraider21]

https://youtu.be/nOmE3pcCMnc?feature=shared

The possession at 48:21… quite utterly ridiculous. That is what a star looks like. Plain as day.
yeah... while im not as high on him as some here, i find it laughable that people argue he's not a better iso scorer than jeremy sochan :lol

[Mr. Body]

yeah... while im not as high on him as some here, i find it laughable that people argue he's not a better iso scorer than jeremy sochan :lol

Lol Sochan is way better. C'mon.

[Mr. Body]

You're comparing a guy who has been beating some of the best players in the NBA and a guy who had minimal flashes in a bad development league.

[Pauleta14]

yeah... while im not as high on him as some here, i find it laughable that people argue he's not a better iso scorer than jeremy sochan :lol

Sochan is the better scorer by far at this stage of their career. More agressive. We're not talking shooting

[SpursFan86]

1803161344969256969

Is Givony a fucking moron? Was on TV talking about how Clingan killed his workout and the Hawks are impressed…then proceeds to bring up the idea of the Hawks trading down to #4 in exchange for SA giving them back their 2025 pick :lmao

I’d have a borderline meltdown if we even traded 4 and 8 in exchange for #1. Much less give back any of our future ATL picks.

[Ariel]

1803161344969256969

Is Givony a fucking moron? Was on TV talking about how Clingan killed his workout and the Hawks are impressed…then proceeds to bring up the idea of the Hawks trading down to #4 in exchange for SA giving them back their 2025 pick :lmao
Not even the most idiotic of posters on random internet boards would propose the mind boggling trades these draftniks are coming up with. Givony is on a roll it seems.

[Mr. Body]

1803161344969256969

Is Givony a fucking moron? Was on TV talking about how Clingan killed his workout and the Hawks are impressed…then proceeds to bring up the idea of the Hawks trading down to #4 in exchange for SA giving them back their 2025 pick :lmao

I’d have a borderline meltdown if we even traded 4 and 8 in exchange for #1. Much less give back any of our future ATL picks.

Givony has been pushing the 4+8 for 1 trade. It originated with him, iirc.

[Mr. Body]

The idea is lingering among the draftoscenti that Clingan is not worth the #1 pick so the Hawks will need to trade down to get him. It's a comical assertion given that:

1. Sarr as the #1 pick was a fabrication created by the draftoscenti
2. The Hawks are allowed to take any player they want
3. There's plenty of reasons to think both that Sarr is not the top player in the draft and that Clingan fits better for them

[onechance87]

Clingan been getting alot of hype to top 3,If reed slips,Do yall think we take him over castle

[SpursFan86]

Clingan been getting alot of hype to top 3,If reed slips,Do yall think we take him over castle

Sheppard would be my pick but based on how the Spurs seem to think about things, I have a feeling they’d pick Castle.

[SpursBills]

The choice between Sheppard, Castle, and Risacher is very interesting in that it shows a lot about your priorities when it comes to draft prospects. Each one of these 3 has only two of the following:

- frame / physical tools
- shooting potential
- decision-making/awareness

Broadly speaking, each of the three prospects has one of the above 3 traits where he is significantly more lacking compared the other two prospects, and it's very interesting to see how the board ranks the 3 in order of preference.

Mine personally:
1. Sheppard (shooting/decision-making)
2. Castle (frame/decision-making)
3. Risacher (frame/shooting)

[DAF86]

Clingan been getting alot of hype to top 3,If reed slips,Do yall think we take him over castle

I would hope so. I've forced myself to not completely despise the idea of adding a guy like Castle that doesn't even look at the basket beyond 10 feet, but if the possibility is there, I would rather take the best shooter in the country and one of the most elite shooting prospects ever. Even if he adds nothing more, he will definitely provide that: elite shooting. Not Bryn Forbes shooting, not Patty Mills shooting. Trully elite shooting. All-time great elite shooting.

I would pair that with Wemby any day of the week, tbh.

[Seventyniner]

I would hope so. I've forced myself to not completely despise the idea of adding a guy like Castle that doesn't even look at the basket beyond 10 feet, but if the possibility is there, I would rather take the best shooter in the country and one of the most elite shooting prospects ever. Even if he adds nothing more, he will definitely provide that: elite shooting. Not Bryn Forbes shooting, not Patty Mills shooting. Trully elite shooting. All-time great elite shooting.

I would pair that with Wemby any day of the week, tbh.

If Reed is even 70% of Curry he would be the consensus #1. Even to the Hawks who already have Young and Murray.

[onechance87]

If Reed is even 70% of Curry he would be the consensus #1. Even to the Hawks who already have Young and Murray.

i mean he was sharing alot with good shooting guards on his team.He would be miles way better then branham and jones thats for sure.

[alfahdlan]

If Reed is even 70% of Curry he would be the consensus #1. Even to the Hawks who already have Young and Murray.Maybe sixty-nine percent?

[Uriel]

Didn’t a headline already come out a couple of days ago saying the Hawks were keeping the pick? https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/40372636/hawks-gm-landry-fields-plans-keep-no-1-pick-nba-draft

[spurraider21]

sheppard isnt on the same planet as curry tbh. both are excellent college shooters, but curry was much more impressive in terms of volume and degree of difficulty of shots. he was also a MUCH more advanced ballhandler and much more comfortable finisher in the paint.

tbh i dont think sheppard would thrive at PG in all situations, unless his ball-handling drastically improves. but SA is one of the places where he should do just fine. were it not for wemby's improved playmaking down the stretch, and vassell's aptitude for the pick and roll, id be a lot more wary of liking Sheppard as a starting PG prospect for us.

[objective]

It's getting worse with the trade speculation. Now the Locked on Wizards podcast has a new episode asking should the Wizards trade down from 2 for 4 & 8

By the weekend, Rockets fans will be talking about #3 for 4 & 8

By next Tuesday, pistons fans will talk about #5 for 4 & 8

[DAF86]

If Reed is even 70% of Curry he would be the consensus #1. Even to the Hawks who already have Young and Murray.

I don't think he has any chance of being anything remotely close to Curry, but I think he can consistently put up 40/45 3pt % seasons on very high volume. That's a weapon that would be useful for years to come.

[onechance87]

It's getting worse with the trade speculation. Now the Locked on Wizards podcast has a new episode asking should the Wizards trade down from 2 for 4 & 8

By the weekend, Rockets fans will be talking about #3 for 4 & 8

By next Tuesday, pistons fans will talk about #5 for 4 & 8

lol.............

[intlspurshk]

It appears that Spurs will pick Castle at 4. There is not point to trade up for ZR given that he is not so excellent in any aspects. If Castle is not available, it will be better to explore trading one 2024 pick for 2025 first round pick and then pick one of the following players as back up: Devin Carter, or Donovan Clingan or Tidjane Saladin or Tyler Smith or Kelsi Ware

[ace3g]

https://x.com/NBADraftWass/status/1803218754731475240

https://x.com/NBADraftWass/status/1803222625356788111

https://x.com/NBADraftWass/status/1803229025751470385

[ChumpDumper]

It will be fun calling him Bustelis whenever he sucks.

[heyheymymy]

Brickzelis and Clangan have the nicknames already built in

[DAF86]

A Castle full of bricks.

[PhantomDashCam]

Dalton Disconnect...
Zach Risky-he/him...
Son of Commish Trist... (Tristan da Silva)

[Spurs Homer]

It will be fun calling him Bustelis whenever he sucks.


lol

sure hope not- its my number 4 pick….

[ChumpDumper]

lol

sure hope not- its my number 4 pick….

Hopefully he only sucks a little.

[SpursBills]

As much as I love watching him, scrub Dillingham unfortunately is another one

[Spurs Homer]

Hopefully he only sucks a little.

we shall see

[heyheymymy]

Ballzacc Risashite

Ron LOLLand

[heyheymymy]

No-D Williams

[Raven]

I don't get why so many people are obsessed with the number the pick has written on. you have a pool of player available and you hope to get those you like.

constantly whining about how bad the pool is doesn't change anything and if it was in fact that bad, why would any team buy a pick in this draft?

I hope Spurs end up with two out of Risacher, Castle and Cody and if not, I will be happy with a consolation prize out of Sheppard and McCain.

(I just envision the meltdown if Spurs came out with Cody and McCain........while I would be pretty cool with that outcome)

well, for starters if a player is drafted too high for his level, he's guaranteed to require too high a contract to keep after his rookie contract, which means you wasted 4 years developing a player for someone else.

[BatManu20]

This fucking draft needs to hurry up and get here tbh. All this speculation and smokescreen bullshit is already annoying. I'm ready to melt down over the Spurs drafting Cody Williams and Tidjane Salaun NOW tbh.

[Vienna]

I can see why the 2nd round picks are not discussed much, good chance the picks will be traded anyway.

but just for the sake of discussion, can someone explain why there is so little love for Antonio Reeves?

some mocks even project him undrafted, some have him at the end of 2nd round. he should be available at #35. (can't see him fall to #48, even if many mocks see him that low).

yes, he is limited in many areas and he is old. but he is such an outstanding shooter and he has decent size for a guard, he should find a niche on almost every NBA roster.

didn't we say, if Forbes was 3 inches taller and a better athlete, he might have been a helpful piece? Reeves is 3 inches taller than Forbes and he is a better athlete.

[exstatic]

I can see why the 2nd round picks are not discussed much, good chance the picks will be traded anyway.

but just for the sake of discussion, can someone explain why there is so little love for Antonio Reeves?

some mocks even project him undrafted, some have him at the end of 2nd round. he should be available at #35. (can't see him fall to #48, even if many mocks see him that low).

yes, he is limited in many areas and he is old. but he is such an outstanding shooter and he has decent size for a guard, he should find a niche on almost every NBA roster.

didn't we say, if Forbes was 3 inches taller and a better athlete, he might have been a helpful piece? Reeves is 3 inches taller than Forbes and he is a better athlete.

Last year, only six teams selected and kept the player for their second rounder, so you’re not wrong.

Reeves is really old, as you stated. He grades out as analytically poor defensively, and he really only did well in the 3/4 court sprint at the combine.

[scottspurs]

Stephon Castle worked out for San Antonio against Devin Carter last week according to ESPN on their latest mock draft. Interesting as it seems the spurs highly value these workouts.

[Dejounte]

Castle worked out for San Antonio against Devin Carter last week according to ESPN on their latest mock draft. Interesting as it seems the spurs highly value these workouts.

The Spurs had Branham go against Wesley in their draft. It was reported that they picked these two because of how hard they went at each other. They’re probably going to put a big emphasis on that. This is where Buzelis would have an edge if they brought him in since he likes to go against other prospects to show he’s better.

[scottspurs]

The Spurs had Branham go against Wesley in their draft. It was reported that they picked these two because of how hard they went at each other. They’re probably going to put a big emphasis on that. This is where Buzelis would have an edge if they brought him in since he likes to go against other prospects to show he’s better.
No word on whether they have brought in Buzelis yet, but the article did say they have had or plan to have Cody Williams in. I would imagine that’s when you would try to also schedule Buzelis. Would definitely give Matas the edge. They will also have Risacher in for a workout on Friday. Would be an interesting time to bring Buzelis in especially with the comments he made about him.

Also interesting that they brought in Castle and Carter before Dillingham but that could be because he is just getting back from his ankle injury

[rankingtear]

Givony and Woo got all workout info. Top 2 target Zacch and Sheppard. Rare archetype and statistical outlier.

[Vienna]

No word on whether they have brought in Buzelis yet, but the article did say they have had or plan to have Cody Williams in. I would imagine that’s when you would try to also schedule Buzelis. Would definitely give Matas the edge. They will also have Risacher in for a workout on Friday. Would be an interesting time to bring Buzelis in especially with the comments he made about him.

Also interesting that they brought in Castle and Carter before Dillingham but that could be because he is just getting back from his ankle injury

I really can't see them set up a work out, with Risacher and Buzelis go against each other. especially after the sophomoric comments from Buzelis.

[kobyz]

Stephon Castle worked out for San Antonio against Devin Carter last week according to ESPN on their latest mock draft. Interesting as it seems the spurs highly value these workouts.

They didn't say Devin Carter cancelled all of his workouts as he has a promise in the lottery?

[rankingtear]

Confirmed Workouts Sheppard, Castle, Dilly, Walter, Kolek, Dadiet, Williams, Topic. No Ignite guys or centers. Interest Knecht.

[Dejounte]

Doubling down on the same position with the same question marks doesn't seem like the best strategy, tbh.

Been thinking about the strategy of drafting two forwards and I think it makes sense. Next year’s draft has dynamic players who would probably share ball handling duties with Wemby and Vassell. If this year isn’t the year to get that, then getting forwards who can play off ball make sense.

I would not be surprised if we land two of: Risacher, Matas, Salaun, Cody

Salaun seems like a lock at 8. Blazers are the only threat at 7 if they want him.

[mystargtr34]

Interesting that it seems like the Hawks can’t get Sarr in for a workout.

[scottspurs]

Players confirmed to have worked out or will workout for Spurs according to ESPN latest mock:

Zaccharie Risacher
Reed Sheppard
Stephon Castle (against Carter)
Cody Williams
Rob Dillingham
Devin Carter (against Castle)
Tijane Salaun (injured his ankle interestingly)
Nikola Topic (meeting not a workout)
Ja’Kobe Walter
Zach Edey (mentions San Antonio as being interested in Centers)
Tyler Kolek
Pacome Dadiet

[scottspurs]

They didn't say Devin Carter cancelled all of his workouts as he has a promise in the lottery?
No mention of that

[NASpurs]

Players confirmed to have worked out or will workout for Spurs according to ESPN latest mock:

Zaccharie Risacher
Reed Sheppard
Stephon Castle (against Carter)
Cody Williams
Rob Dillingham
Devin Carter (against Castle)
Tijane Salaun (injured his ankle interestingly)
Nikola Topic (meeting not a workout)
Ja’Kobe Walter
Zach Edey (mentions San Antonio as being interested in Centers)
Tyler Kolek
Pacome Dadiet

No Clingan?

[LeBowen]

No Clingan?

We're not using a top10 pick to draft another center.
I think Edey workout was just in case if he drops to #35.

[kobyz]

4th pick: Castle/Cody Williams
8th pick: Saluan/Carter

[scottspurs]

No Clingan?
Not mentioned but it does say that San Antonio doesn’t appear to be a landing spot

[scottspurs]

Yeah I think the Edey interest would be more of a 2nd Round thing

[rankingtear]

It said San Antonio is not interested in centers.

[PhantomDashCam]

The Spurs had Branham go against Wesley in their draft. It was reported that they picked these two because of how hard they went at each other. They’re probably going to put a big emphasis on that. This is where Buzelis would have an edge if they brought him in since he likes to go against other prospects to show he’s better.

I believe Dyson Daniels was also in that workout.
If Castle and Carter were at the workout together, I’d bet that one of (or all of) Ja’Kobe Walter, Dillon Jones and Bub Carrington were there too.

[SpursFan86]

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/page/NBADraft24-40343667/2024-nba-mock-draft-all-58-picks-trade-talks-heat-30-teams

This is the article where several Spurs’ workouts are mentioned. Some of the more noteworthy names:

Risacher - slated to work out for SA on Friday
Sheppard - worked out for SA last week (Givony claims SA could be interested in moving up to 3 to grab him)
Castle and Devin Carter - worked out against each other in SA last week
Dillingham - working out for SA today
Cody Williams - worked out for SA
Topic - can’t work out with his injury, but is in the U.S. and will visit SA
Salaun - apparently sprained his ankle during his workout in SA this past weekend, could influence his scheduled workouts

For what it’s worth, in the mock draft of the same article they have Castle being the pick at 4 and Dillingham being #8. That’s one of my top 3 preferred combos…can’t wait for the Spurs to shit on it and go with Topic/Salaun :lol

[Uriel]

Based on the latest ESPN mock, the Spurs’ big board appears to be:

1. Risacher
2. Sarr
3. Sheppard
4. Castle
5. Dillingham
6. Knecht

[rankingtear]

Based on draft ranges the target at 4 is Zacch - Sheppard - Castle/Knecht. Knecht is a top tier talent around Wemby like it or not.

[scottspurs]

It said San Antonio is not interested in centers.
Zach Edey (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4600663/zach-edey), C, Purdue (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2509/purdue-boilermakers) | Age: 22.0
Edey, ranked No. 16 in ESPN's Top 100 (https://www.espn.com/nba/draft/bestavailable), is drawing interest from teams that are drafting in front and behind Miami, with every team in the back half of the lottery after San Antonio said to be in the market for a center.

[Dejounte]

Based on the latest ESPN mock, the Spurs’ big board appears to be:

1. Risacher
2. Sarr
3. Sheppard
4. Castle
5. Dillingham
6. Knecht

Uh I don’t think it says that anywhere in the article

[Uriel]

Uh I don’t think it says that anywhere in the article
It’s called reading between the lines. ;)

[Dejounte]

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/page/NBADraft24-40343667/2024-nba-mock-draft-all-58-picks-trade-talks-heat-30-teams

This is the article where several Spurs’ workouts are mentioned. Some of the more noteworthy names:

Risacher - slated to work out for SA on Friday
Sheppard - worked out for SA last week (Givony claims SA could be interested in moving up to 3 to grab him)
Castle and Devin Carter - worked out against each other in SA last week
Dillingham - working out for SA today
Cody Williams - worked out for SA
Topic - can’t work out with his injury, but is in the U.S. and will visit SA
Salaun - apparently sprained his ankle during his workout in SA this past weekend, could influence his scheduled workouts

For what it’s worth, in the mock draft of the same article they have Castle being the pick at 4 and Dillingham being #8. That’s one of my top 3 preferred combos…can’t wait for the Spurs to shit on it and go with Topic/Salaun :lol

Moving up one spot to get Reed? Now that’s interesting…

Givony’s been pitching the 1 for 4+8 all along, right? People assumed it was for Risacher, but what if it was for Reed?

[rankingtear]

Zach Edey (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4600663/zach-edey), C, Purdue (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/_/id/2509/purdue-boilermakers) | Age: 22.0
Edey, ranked No. 16 in ESPN's Top 100 (https://www.espn.com/nba/draft/bestavailable), is drawing interest from teams that are drafting in front and behind Miami, with every team in the back half of the lottery after San Antonio said to be in the market for a center.

After San Antonio.

[Dejounte]

It’s called reading between the lines. ;)
I think it’s called you projecting your own fantasy into reality. We get that you want Risacher. Come back here in a few years when he doesn’t become the star you think he will be.

[scottspurs]

It’s called reading between the lines. ;)
It doesn’t even mention any interest between Sarr and the Spurs so your board is speculation nothing to do with the article

[rankingtear]

Moving up one spot to get Reed? Now that’s interesting…

Givony’s been pitching the 1 for 4+8 all along, right? People assumed it was for Risacher, but what if it was for Reed?

It said if he drops to 4.

[Uriel]

It doesn’t even mention any interest between Sarr and the Spurs so your board is speculation nothing to do with the article
You’re right, my bad. Sarr wasn’t mentioned. It should be:

1. Risacher
2. Sheppard
3. Castle
4. Dillingham
5. Knecht

[Uriel]

I think it’s called you projecting your own fantasy into reality. We get that you want Risacher. Come back here in a few years when he doesn’t become the star you think he will be.
I never said anywhere that I think Risacher would be a star. I do think he’s a great fit on the current roster though.

[SpursFan86]

Moving up one spot to get Reed? Now that’s interesting…

Givony’s been pitching the 1 for 4+8 all along, right? People assumed it was for Risacher, but what if it was for Reed?

I love the idea of moving up a spot to grab Sheppard at 3, but I’m just not sure what would make sense for both sides. The whole reason Houston would want to move that pick is because they’re focused on grabbing a win-now piece…and I don’t really think SA has much that would fit with Houston and be worth a top 3 pick (even if it’s a weak class). I’m sure someone here can get creative and come up with something decent but just feels unlikely IMO.

I’m far less interested in 4 + 8 to move to 1. I’m a huge Sheppard fan but there’s a decent chance he’s available at 4, and if not, Castle + Dillingham is a better haul than Sheppard alone.

[SpursFan86]

Oh I’m a dumbass, misread the Sheppard piece :lol My bad - here’s the actual quote:

Should Houston decide to trade back or go another direction, San Antonio is also quite intrigued with Sheppard and will be in position to pounce one pick later.

[scottspurs]

I doubt Houston wants to help the Spurs get Sheppard if that is their target lol

[Mr. Body]

Carter and Castle already played twice this year. Kinda funny making them play each other again.

[Maddog]

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/page/NBADraft24-40343667/2024-nba-mock-draft-all-58-picks-trade-talks-heat-30-teams

This is the article where several Spurs’ workouts are mentioned. Some of the more noteworthy names:

Risacher - slated to work out for SA on Friday
Sheppard - worked out for SA last week (Givony claims SA could be interested in moving up to 3 to grab him)
Castle and Devin Carter - worked out against each other in SA last week
Dillingham - working out for SA today
Cody Williams - worked out for SA
Topic - can’t work out with his injury, but is in the U.S. and will visit SA
Salaun - apparently sprained his ankle during his workout in SA this past weekend, could influence his scheduled workouts

For what it’s worth, in the mock draft of the same article they have Castle being the pick at 4 and Dillingham being #8. That’s one of my top 3 preferred combos…can’t wait for the Spurs to shit on it and go with Topic/Salaun :lol

Did Salaun really sprain his ankle or did the Spurs tell him his ankle is sprained.....

[CGD]

Confirmed Workouts Sheppard, Castle, Dilly, Walter, Kolek, Dadiet, Williams, Topic. No Ignite guys or centers. Interest Knecht.

Sounds like ZR is working out for SA on Friday.

[LeBowen]

Sounds like ZR is working out for SA on Friday.

Basically we can't tell anything from workouts since every player that's a realistic option will obviously have a workout.
I'm sure they'll give Buzelis a workout, why wouldn't they, even if they're not actually interested.

[CGD]

It’s called reading between the lines. ;)

OK, but what line are you reading between to conclude they value Sarr that high?

[LeBowen]

Sounds like ZR is working out for SA on Friday.

Basically we can't tell anything from workouts since every player that's a realistic option will obviously have a workout.
I'm sure they'll give Buzelis a workout, why wouldn't they, even if they're not actually interested.

Draft night is going to be top level entertainment.
I was never this invested in a draft. Three #1 selections we had were obvious picks, lower picks were never supposed to be franchise-altering.
But right now we need any help we can get and we don't even know which position or archetype PATFO prefers.
And we got two picks.

Btw, who came up with the brilliant idea to have second round on the next day? Peak ESPN.

[Mr. Body]

Crazy that they're only working out some of these players the week before the draft. What's been going on all this time?

[Pauleta14]

I really can't see them set up a work out, with Risacher and Buzelis go against each other. especially after the sophomoronic comments from Buzelis.

fify ^^

[Mr. Body]

DraftExpress indicating Atlanta is focusing on Clingan or Risacher at 1 rather than Sarr.

[Mr. Body]

News is the Hawks can't get Sarr to come in for a workout.

[scottspurs]

DraftExpress indicating Atlanta is focusing on Clingan or Risacher at 1 rather than Sarr.
Also the Wizards did a full court press welcoming during their workout of Matas Buzelis. He even posted it on his Instagram. They did a whole presentation. This draft could get wild in a world where it goes

1. Atlanta- Donovan Clingan
2. Washington- Matas Buzelis

[Mr. Body]

Also the Wizards did a full court press welcoming during their workout of Matas Buzelis. He even posted it on his Instagram. They did a whole presentation. This draft could get wild in a world where it goes

1. Atlanta- Donovan Clingan
2. Washington- Matas Buzelis

People are getting upset that Buzelis could go high. I don't get why folks get hung up on mock drafts that pseudo-amateurs make three months ago. These pseudo-amateur drafts get sticky and fans start insisting that those players are the best when things aren't set in stone.

What gives me pause is normally you hear some narratives forming about a player rising, in order to prime expectations, but with Matas we've heard zilcho.

[scottspurs]

People are getting upset that Buzelis could go high. I don't get why folks get hung up on mock drafts that pseudo-amateurs make three months ago. These pseudo-amateur drafts get sticky and fans start insisting that those players are the best when things aren't set in stone.

What gives me pause is normally you hear some narratives forming about a player rising, in order to prime expectations, but with Matas we've heard zilcho.

I think with this draft in particular the mock drafters could be way off. I think Buzelis has as much potential as anyone in this draft. Would make sense for a team like the Wizards that is completely starting over. lol at Sarr not working out for Atlanta.

[Cardinal]

Still hoping and praying for Sheppard to drop to 4

[FireMicoHalili]

Also the Wizards did a full court press welcoming during their workout of Matas Buzelis. He even posted it on his Instagram. They did a whole presentation. This draft could get wild in a world where it goes

1. Atlanta- Donovan Clingan
2. Washington- Matas Buzelis

Washington is so weird. They’ve drafted Avdija, Kispert, Johnny Davis, and Coulibaly in successive drafts (iirc). Avdija is coming along fine but for them to draft Buzelis gives them a logjam.

[duncan2150]

Crazy that they're only working out some of these players the week before the draft. What's been going on all this time?Maybe some get two workouts ?

[Ariel]

Washington is so weird. They’ve drafted Avdija, Kispert, Johnny Davis, and Coulibaly in successive drafts (iirc). Avdija is coming along fine but for them to draft Buzelis gives them a logjam.
It doesn't, only long term guys are Avdija and Coulibaly, Kispert is a nice role player but nothing more. If Buzelis hits he's one of the highest ceiling players in the draft, and you can always trade one of them for a haul if it becomes a (good to have) problem a couple of years down the road. Makes more sense for them than Clingan, Sheppard, etc.

[scottspurs]

Washington is so weird. They’ve drafted Avdija, Kispert, Johnny Davis, and Coulibaly in successive drafts (iirc). Avdija is coming along fine but for them to draft Buzelis gives them a logjam.
I don’t think Washington cares about anybody currently on the roster except for Coulibaly

[rascal]

I doubt Houston wants to help the Spurs get Sheppard if that is their target lol

Nice move by the Spurs to make Houston believe Sheppard is their target while Castle is who they want all along.

[Mr. Body]

Buzelis is also a bit more of a PF swing while those others are more straight up SFs.

[ChumpDumper]

Just from the workout list, it kind of seems like the Spurs might be knocking around the idea of acquiring a lower first rounder like one of the Knicks' picks. If that happens, they'd almost have to be trading up with the higher picks or trading out of one of them.

[Uriel]

OK, but what line are you reading between to conclude they value Sarr that high?

You’re right, my bad. Sarr wasn’t mentioned. It should be:

1. Risacher
2. Sheppard
3. Castle
4. Dillingham
5. Knecht

[scott]

I think with this draft in particular the mock drafters could be way off. I think Buzelis has as much potential as anyone in this draft. Would make sense for a team like the Wizards that is completely starting over. lol at Sarr not working out for Atlanta.

It would be a lot of fun if the mocks are WAAAAAAAY off, and the top 3 are something like Edey, Holland, Collier :lol

I'm looking forward to the chaos next week! Hoping for lots of trades too. Let's shake up this league.

[DPG21920]

I feel like theres an increasingly good chance that Risacher is available at pick 4..I wonder how in love SA is with him.

Clingan, Sarr, Reed are picks 1-3 IMO

[stnick2261]

Did Salaun really sprain his ankle or did the Spurs tell him his ankle is sprained.....

Apparently, the Spurs promised Salaun their pick to fake his injury.... also Dillingham's ankle sprain... and Topic was just too good to let him play all year so the Spurs shut him down too. We'll draft all 3 at the #8 pick.

[stnick2261]

If Clingan goes Top-3, I'd be calling Detroit and offering #8, #35 & #48 for their #5. I'd take the 2 remaining of Sarr, Risaccher, Castle and Sheppard

[exstatic]

Been thinking about the strategy of drafting two forwards and I think it makes sense. Next year’s draft has dynamic players who would probably share ball handling duties with Wemby and Vassell. If this year isn’t the year to get that, then getting forwards who can play off ball make sense.

I would not be surprised if we land two of: Risacher, Matas, Salaun, Cody

Salaun seems like a lock at 8. Blazers are the only threat at 7 if they want him.

It’s funny, because I was just thinking something that would melt this board, and pretty much the opposite: Castle and Topic. :lol

[DPG21920]

Just from the workout list, it kind of seems like the Spurs might be knocking around the idea of acquiring a lower first rounder like one of the Knicks' picks. If that happens, they'd almost have to be trading up with the higher picks or trading out of one of them.

It’s hard to tell. In a draft like this, teams may very well not be willing to pay much to move up so there may be a surprising lack of movement up due to teams with higher picks not wanting bad optics of feeling like they gave up a “top 10 pick” for too little?

So may be a situation where there is no such thing as a reach really and teams just get their guys despite some mocks saying it would be a reach

[DPG21920]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

[exstatic]

Basically we can't tell anything from workouts since every player that's a realistic option will obviously have a workout.
I'm sure they'll give Buzelis a workout, why wouldn't they, even if they're not actually interested.

Said they hadn’t worked out any Ignite players. Maybe that’s a thing with them.

[exstatic]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

Castle, every day, and twice on Sunday.

[spurraider21]

If Clingan goes Top-3, I'd be calling Detroit and offering #8, #35 & #48 for their #5. I'd take the 2 remaining of Sarr, Risaccher, Castle and Sheppard
while id be content just taking risacher at 4 and expecting dillingham at 8, if it is indeed the case that the spurs dont care for dillingham and sheppard is the next guy on their board, then yeah i'd be in favor of making some kind of trade. im not sure if 35 and 48 is enough to move 3 spots, might have to be the charlotte FRP

[spurraider21]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?
beating the dead horse here, but imo gotta be risacher with an eye on dillingham at 8

[Mr. Body]

Castle, every day, and twice on Sunday.

Correct. Coming away with Castle makes everything else gravy.

[DPG21920]

beating the dead horse here, but imo gotta be risacher with an eye on dillingham at 8

I feel like this is what SA would do, but I would prefer Castle personally in this scenario. Then you hope Cody/Holland is there or you take Carter as well and come away with two guards and phase out Branham/Blake entirely.

Of course you can trade up to ensure you get both Risacher and Castle as well…

[LeBowen]

Castle, every day, and twice on Sunday.

Tbh, I hope so. I dont' want either of those two.
I'm fine with every other pick. Except maybe Topic because of his injury status.

[Degoat]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

Risacher and Carter I think would be the best case scenario, they fit what the team needs the most

[mo7888]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

I wouldn't discount Buzelis to Washington at #2 just yet.... if thst indeed happens Houston has to decide between Sheppard and Sarr.

[stnick2261]

I wouldn't discount Buzelis to Washington at #2 just yet.... if thst indeed happens Houston has to decide between Sheppard and Sarr.

If Clingan goes #1 and Buzelis goes #2.... I'd be calling to try to move #8 up to #5 as well as trying to buy #6 with as many future 2nds as Charlotte wants. End up with #4, #5, & #6 and get 3/4 of Sarr, Risaccher, Sheppard and Castle.

[BatManu20]

Officially one week away from the Draft boys.

[BatManu20]

If Clingan goes Top-3, I'd be calling Detroit and offering #8, #35 & #48 for their #5. I'd take the 2 remaining of Sarr, Risaccher, Castle and Sheppard

That wouldn't be enough to move up 3 spots. That's a considerable jump in the top-8. Charlotte would want a future 1st at least tbh.

[rascal]

I'm expecting it's going to be Castle and if he's drafted before 4 then it's going to be Topic (even with the injury) and Salaun at 8.

It's going to be two of these three players. Topic or Salaun at 8. It's going to be hard for the Spurs not to draft Topic but they also like Salaun.

[Mr. Body]

I'm expecting it's going to be Castle and if he's drafted before 4 then it's going to be Topic (even with the injury) and Salaun at 8.

If Castle goes before 4, then either Risacher or Sheppard will be there and I expect either one before Topic.

[heyheymymy]

Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

My dream 1-2-3 sequence. Spurs choice of Risacher/Castle. My personal preference:

SA picks Castle at #4 and Carter/Dillingham/Williams/Salaun roughly in that order #8. Would be thrilled with any combo of Castle/Risacher + Carter/Dillingham/Williams/Salaun just selecting at natural positions and not spending any capital.

But if you can trade up with DET using #8 + a few 2RPs/even considering say one light protect 27 FRP and then take Risacher at #4 + Castle #5 would be my ideal scenario granted pricey. But you pick Castle at his jersey number lol

[rascal]

If Castle goes before 4, then either Risacher or Sheppard will be there and I expect either one before Topic.

I'm still expecting Topic instead of Sheppard. Spurs are more interested in Topic than most in here think.

[Ariel]

I'm expecting it's going to be Castle and if he's drafted before 4 then it's going to be Topic (even with the injury) and Salaun at 8.

It's going to be two of these three players. Topic or Salaun at 8. It's going to be hard for the Spurs not to draft Topic but they also like Salaun.
Topic at 4 would be shocking. Who would touch him before 8? To be honest, it's difficult to find a landing spot for him even in the back half of the lottery. There were too many questions already, and the injury was the nail in the coffin. Someone will take a chance, but a long slide would be the most logical outcome.

[SpursDynasty85]

Topic at 4 would be shocking. Who would touch him before 8? To be honest, it's difficult to find a landing spot for him even in the back half of the lottery. There were too many questions already, and the injury was the nail in the coffin. Someone will take a chance, but a long slide would be the most logical outcome.
Charlotte could use another playmaker.

[BatManu20]

1803432425768288552

[BatManu20]

I'm still expecting Topic instead of Sheppard. Spurs are more interested in Topic than most in here think.

You literally just said in the Topic thread that the Spurs have no interest in Topic... :lol

[spurraider21]

You literally just said in the Topic thread that the Spurs have no interest in Topic... :lol
nah, he said he believed spurs are still considering topic, despite timvp's writing that the spurs are not interested

[BatManu20]

nah, he said he believed spurs are still considering topic, despite timvp's writing that the spurs are not interested

Oh you're right. Didn't see the first post, only saw the second one. My bad rascal

[LeBowen]

Tbh, Castle+Sheppard draft would be amazing.
As someone suggested, getting #5 pick from the Pistons wouldn't be the worst idea if both are available.

[z0sa]

Theres plenty of combos that make sense: Castle + Carter. Risacher + Cody etc…

But if definitely feels like we may be shaping up (assuming no trades in top 3) with: Clingan to ATL, Sarr to WAS and Reed to HOU. What does the board want for SA in that scenario?

Easily Risacher. Dream scenario for us.

Follow up @8 with Dillingham, maybe Knecht, unlikely ones like Buzelis/Castle would obviously take precedence if somehow they're still on the board

[BatManu20]

Sheppard to Houston almost seems to be getting telegraphed at this point. Makes me think it's not gonna happen tbh. Still think they're gonna try and move that pick for a win-now player.

[Dverde]

Malaki and Blake gotta be crossing their fingers it’s not Sheppard or Castle at #4. I think Topic, Dilly, Carter at #8 probably not affect them as much and they spend more time in Austin to develop.

[BatManu20]

BR's newest mock:

1. Risacher - ATL
2. Sarr - WAS
3. Sheppard - HOU
4. Castle - SAS
5. Buzelis - DET
6. Clingan - CHA
7. C. Williams - POR
8. Carter - SAS
9. Holland - MEM
10. Knecht - UT
11. Dillingham - CHI
12. Salaun - OKC
13. Ware - SAC
14. De Silva - POR


https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125089-2024-nba-mock-draft-full-2-round-predictions-with-one-week-to-go (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125089-2024-nba-mock-draft-full-2-round-predictions-with-one-week-to-go)

[Mr. Body]

It seems like two top three situations are emerging:

Clingan
Sarr
Sheppard

or

Risacher
Sarr
Clingan (traded by Houston)

Basically, in these situations the Spurs have:

Risacher or Castle

or

Sheppard or Castle

I'm not convinced the Spurs would look at anyone beyond Sheppard/Risacher/Castle for the #4 pick. My feel is that the Spurs would take the shooter first, whether it's Risacher or Sheppard, and hope to get Castle after. There's a chance Castle survives Detroit-Charlotte-Portland, although moving up to the Charlotte slot may be necessary.

I feel like Risacher/Castle or Sheppard/Castle would be a big win of a draft.

[BatManu20]

If the reports of Sarr refusing to work out for ATL are true, I think Risacher becomes the easy #1 choice for them imo. I'm not buying the Clingan #1 overall hype. Just don't see it happening personally.

[heyheymymy]

Wonder if we see the influence of new CHA mgmt in their selection.

[Mr. Body]

Wonder if we see the influence of new CHA mgmt in their selection.

Detroit, Washington, Charlotte all have new management.

[spurraider21]

Sheppard to Houston almost seems to be getting telegraphed at this point. Makes me think it's not gonna happen tbh. Still think they're gonna try and move that pick for a win-now player.
if they want to move out, the one that makes the most intuitive sense to me will be memphis (if clingan is still available at 4, which is why we wont see the move happen until real time). there is otherwise the ever-looming rumor of the rockets trading for bridges, but the nets apparently are treating him like prime KD or something

[ChumpDumper]

It’s hard to tell. In a draft like this, teams may very well not be willing to pay much to move up so there may be a surprising lack of movement up due to teams with higher picks not wanting bad optics of feeling like they gave up a “top 10 pick” for too little?

So may be a situation where there is no such thing as a reach really and teams just get their guys despite some mocks saying it would be a reach

Entirely possible, Also possible that the Spurs can get decent competition for their higher targets by publicizing those workouts and giving those maybe-lower rated players some lottery buzz.

I'm speculating purely off the seeming consensus of these nowhere-near-confident-or-actually-informed mocks.

[BatManu20]

Givony really keeps pushing this Spurs - Hawks trade up narrative. Almost like he desperately wants it to happen. Hopefully PATFO are smarter than this.


1803522112293843107

[SpursFan86]

I just legitimately can’t fathom the Spurs giving any of ATL’s picks back. There’s no way in hell they’re that high on Risacher or Sheppard. It makes even less sense when you consider that it seems fairly likely at this point that one of those guys will be available at 4.

Think Givony is just saying random shit tbh. Or trying to create a smokescreen for whatever ulterior reason.

[SpursBills]

I suspect that Memphis will not be willing to pay a lot to move up to draft Clingan. The more I think about it, the more Edey makes just as much sense for them and they can easily get him at 9:

1. Grizzlies front office is very analytically minded, and Edey/Clingan graded out as the 2 best players in the draft by many models
2. They start JJJ, whose strengths are his mobility and 3 point shooting, and whose weakness is his rebounding. Edey is a dominant post player who can take full advantage of spacing provided by JJJ. He's one of the best rebounders of the last 25 years which makes up for JJJ's rebounding deficiencies. He's big (7'10" wingspan) enough to play drop and JJJ is one of the few guys who at his best can be a Giannis-lite eraser from the weak side covering up a lot of Edey's deficiencies.
3. Unlike OKC, Memphis has no problem playing a slower pace
4. He grades in the 100th percentile as a PNR finisher, sets crushing screens, and has a huge catch radius. Memphis has one of the best PNR guards in the entire league in Ja, leading the league in PNR possessions 2 years ago.
5. He plays in a division with undersized or skinny centers. He'll have 80 pounds on Wemby/Chet and 5 inches on Sengun, so the choice will either be to have one of the aforementioned centers guard him in the post and risk foul trouble/wear and tear/fatigue or guard him with a power forward that's giving up 6-7 inches and 60 lbs for a free 2 points. Unlike Clingan, Edey has the ability to absolutely punish mismatches down low

For all these reasons, Edey's actually my dark horse pick for Memphis at 9; I don't think they'd be willing to give up a ton to move up for Clingan when Edey is just sitting there for them

[DPG21920]

Entirely possible, Also possible that the Spurs can get decent competition for their higher targets by publicizing those workouts and giving those maybe-lower rated players some lottery buzz.

I'm speculating purely off the seeming consensus of these nowhere-near-confident-or-actually-informed mocks.

For sure - this draft more than most has potential for “mocks be damned” shenanigans

[R. DeMurre]

BR's newest mock:

1. Risacher - ATL
2. Sarr - WAS
3. Sheppard - HOU
4. Castle - SAS
5. Buzelis - DET
6. Clingan - CHA
7. C. Williams - POR
8. Carter - SAS
9. Holland - MEM
10. Knecht - UT
11. Dillingham - CHI
12. Salaun - OKC
13. Ware - SAC
14. De Silva - POR


https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125089-2024-nba-mock-draft-full-2-round-predictions-with-one-week-to-go (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125089-2024-nba-mock-draft-full-2-round-predictions-with-one-week-to-go)

Clingan to Charlotte seems unlikely, but if it happened I'd want the Spurs to make an offer for Mark Williams. He's locked into a very reasonable contract for the next two years and could be a great piece either as a player or as future trade bait.

[DPG21920]

Theres zero chance SA is going to give ATL a pick back simply to move up from 4. Now, if ATL wants to trade pick 1 outright for one of their picks back? Ok. But not 4+ATL pick just to move up 3 spots. Dont care who is saying that, it’s not going to happen.

Only way ATL gets a pick(s) back from SA is if Trae or Murray are involved

[ChumpDumper]

Givony really keeps pushing this Spurs - Hawks trade up narrative. Almost like he desperately wants it to happen. Hopefully PATFO are smarter than this.


1803522112293843107Just seems like a facile clickbait formula for Givony.

#1 pick + trade talk = profit

[Seventyniner]

Will there be any way to watch a replay of the draft coverage the next day? I'm not sure if League Pass has that.

[TD 21]

Risacher and Carter I think would be the best case scenario, they fit what the team needs the most

I'd include Sheppard in that, but mostly agree. Unfortunately, there's virtually no chance Risacher gets to 4, so: 1 and Murray for 4, Hawks '25 1st, Hawks '26 swap rights, Hornets '25 1st, Jones.

[ChumpDumper]

Will there be any way to watch a replay of the draft coverage the next day? I'm not sure if League Pass has that.

ESPN+

[poopbox]

1803432425768288552

I expect Houston to take him. Fred is a stop gap and they don't have a real point guard on the team outside of him. Makes sense to take him and slowly work him in while Fred is there and having him be the starter when Fred leaves. It doesn't make any sense for them to take anyone else.

[BatManu20]

I expect Houston to take him. Fred is a stop gap and they don't have a real point guard on the team outside of him. Makes sense to take him and slowly work him in while Fred is there and having him be the starter when Fred leaves. It doesn't make any sense for them to take anyone else.

I agree he would be the "right" pick for them, for all the reasons you stated. He's also arguably BPA at that point. I just tend to think when a team's pick is being telegraphed like Sheppard to Houston is, it usually doesn't happen tbh. But it probably will barring a major trade.

[SpursFan86]

Yeah unfortunately I think the only way Sheppard makes it to 4 is if Houston trades out of the pick. Guess there’s a chance they’d go with Risacher over Sheppard assuming Clingan/Sarr go 1 and 2…but seems unlikely.

[DPG21920]

I really hate that HOU landed in front of SA. Kind of annoying that despite pick 3 and 4 not being much different value wise that it was HOU in front of SA here which may prevent Reed from getting to SA

[SpursBills]

I really hate that HOU landed in front of SA. Kind of annoying that despite pick 3 and 4 not being much different value wise that it was HOU in front of SA here which may prevent Reed from getting to SA

I get the frustration, but I think either Charlotte or Detroit landing at 3 (teams with worse records than SA) would have meant Sheppard's off the board too. If you really want him, Houston might be a better option at 3 than if CHA or DET had gotten him as they are more likely to trade the pick given their win-now priorities.

[Vienna]

I really don‘t believe Sheppard goes that high. His shooting number look fantastic, but he didn‘t shoot much off the dribble, neither he shot off screens. He got his open looks from Dillingham and yes, he made them, but you don‘t draft him for that at 3 or 4. maybe Detroit thinks he fits next to Cade, but even this I don‘t count on. Spurs at 8, if they picked Castle at 4, I think there is a good chance he will be there.

[The Truth #6]

I see Sheppard dropping. Teams typically prioritize height in the top few picks. Teams will have to trust analytics over eyeballs, perceived upside, and fail sons interjecting inappropriately. Just a gut feeling.

Edit: I was typing when Vienna was typing something similar.

[SpursFan86]

Looked at odds just for shits and giggles…for what it’s worth (probably not a ton):

1st: Risacher favored at -110, Sarr second at +110, Clingan third at +400
2nd: Risacher +100, Sarr +110, Clingan +500
3rd: Sheppard +150, Clingan +300, Castle/Sarr +700

4th: Castle +300, Sheppard +400, Buzelis +450
8th: Salaun/Topic +550, Dillingham/Holland +700

[scott]

Clingan to Charlotte seems unlikely, but if it happened I'd want the Spurs to make an offer for Mark Williams. He's locked into a very reasonable contract for the next two years and could be a great piece either as a player or as future trade bait.

If Charlotte takes Clingan, my understanding is that it will be because Mark Williams is broken.

[DAF86]

Malaki and Blake gotta be crossing their fingers it’s not Sheppard or Castle at #4. I think Topic, Dilly, Carter at #8 probably not affect them as much and they spend more time in Austin to develop.

No way Carter spends time in Austin. He's the oldest player of the bunch by a lot, and probably the more plug and play too.

In reality, none of those players project to spend much (if any time) on the G-league.

[TD 21]

So called Hawks insiders claim that Sarr has been focused on being steered to the Wizards all along (hence his not working out with the Hawks), as he prefers a lower pressure situation and that the Hawks will decide between Risacher and Clingan, with the latter being more likely.

I'd have to see it to believe it. But in the highly unlikely event Risacher gets to 4, I would think he'd be the one player they'd select ahead of Castle, in part because they'd still have Carter in their back pocket at 8.

They also claim Murray is more likely to be traded than Young (combination of market being "poor" and his being "on board with the plan").

[Mr. Body]

So called Hawks insiders claim that Sarr has been focused on being steered to the Wizards all along (hence his not working out with the Hawks), as he prefers a lower pressure situation and that the Hawks will decide between Risacher and Clingan, with the latter being more likely.

I'd have to see it to believe it, but in the highly unlikely event Risacher gets to 4, I would think he'd be the one player they'd select ahead of Castle, in part because they'd still have Carter in their back pocket at 8.

Trae Young is so disliked even players not in league don't want to play with him.

Spurs taking Risacher over Castle may be one of those considerable mistakes that shows repercussions down the line.

[scott]

People out here knocking Buzelis's "attitude" for some imagined reasons, meanwhile Sarr is reportedly ducking the Hawks so he can go to a "lower pressure situation"? Sounds like a real winner (if true).

[Mr. Body]

Atlanta's future may be worse than the Wizards.

Sarr gets to play with fellow Oui-zard Coulibaly. Only reason anyone wants to live in Atlanta is the strip clubs, and the French are too upstanding for that.

[CGD]

So called Hawks insiders claim that Sarr has been focused on being steered to the Wizards all along (hence his not working out with the Hawks), as he prefers a lower pressure situation and that the Hawks will decide between Risacher and Clingan, with the latter being more likely.

I'd have to see it to believe it. But in the highly unlikely event Risacher gets to 4, I would think he'd be the one player they'd select ahead of Castle, in part because they'd still have Carter in their back pocket at 8.

They also claim Murray is more likely to be traded than Young.

This makes a lot of sense. At 8, it feels like Carter is the Plan B to Castle should they prioritize a wing at 4. I do wonder if Matas is in play at 4 over Castle (I hope not tho).

[mo7888]

I think we should watch Detroit pretty closely. The firing of Williams today signifies a sort of sea shift into the Langdon time frame. I wouldn't be surprised if Cade gets moved next week. It could shake things up.

[Mr. Body]

Why would they move Cade though?

[scott]

Atlanta is a nice city - definitely more attractive than a lot of NBA markets. I don't view ATL's future as that grim, but maybe Sarr does. But ATL is a bubble team with no incentive to tank, so they will feel pressure to make the playoffs this year (realistic or not), and I read this as Sarr doesn't want that kind of pressure his rookie year... which is some weak ass shit if that is the case.

[ace3g]

HoopsHype updated their Draft Workout Section for the Spurs:



Ja'Kobe Walter


Tyler Kolek


Pacome Dadiet



Tyrese Samuel

[DAF86]

Why would they move Cade though?

Yeah, it makes no sense. I would jump at that opportunity on a second, though. Give them 4, 8, Keldon and whatever else they want.

[baseline bum]

I really don‘t believe Sheppard goes that high. His shooting number look fantastic, but he didn‘t shoot much off the dribble, neither he shot off screens. He got his open looks from Dillingham and yes, he made them, but you don‘t draft him for that at 3 or 4. maybe Detroit thinks he fits next to Cade, but even this I don‘t count on. Spurs at 8, if they picked Castle at 4, I think there is a good chance he will be there.

I mean there isn't a single prospect other than possibly Sarr that I'd happy to draft with a #4 pick in a normal draft. Castle seems like he'd go around 7 or 8 in a normal draft like say a Coby White, same for Sheppard, Risacher maybe 6 or 7 like Harrison Barnes. Looking at the weakness of this class I think Sheppard is probably a top 4 player in it; everybody in this draft has some major holes in his game so hard to say can't draft this flawed player at 4 since everyone else you could pick there is hugely flawed too.

[spurraider21]

Yeah unfortunately I think the only way Sheppard makes it to 4 is if Houston trades out of the pick. Guess there’s a chance they’d go with Risacher over Sheppard assuming Clingan/Sarr go 1 and 2…but seems unlikely.
if the top 2 picks wind up being clingan/sarr and we guarantee that one of risacher/sheppard will fall to us at 4, thats basically the best scenario we could ask for. or if hawks go with sarr/clingan and the wizards love buzelis as much as some people think

[baseline bum]

Yeah, it makes no sense. I would jump at that opportunity on a second, though. Give them 4, 8, Keldon and whatever else they want.

Seems like a lot to give up for a guy who probably tops out at quality starter and is about to cost a lot of money in a year. Made a nice jump this year though; previous two he looked like a bust.

[mo7888]

Why would they move Cade though?

For the same reason they fired Williams. Simply resetting under different management.

[baseline bum]

if the top 2 picks wind up being clingan/sarr and we guarantee that one of risacher/sheppard will fall to us at 4, thats basically the best scenario we could ask for. or if hawks go with sarr/clingan and the wizards love buzelis as much as some people think

God I'm going to be pissed if the Spurs don't come away with Risacher, Castle, or Sheppard at 4 (barring trade).

[DAF86]

Seems like a lot to give up for a guy who probably tops out at quality starter and is about to cost a lot of money in a year. Made a nice jump this year though; previous two he looked like a bust.

I see him as a future all-star, tbh.

[baseline bum]

So called Hawks insiders claim that Sarr has been focused on being steered to the Wizards all along (hence his not working out with the Hawks), as he prefers a lower pressure situation and that the Hawks will decide between Risacher and Clingan, with the latter being more likely.

I'd have to see it to believe it. But in the highly unlikely event Risacher gets to 4, I would think he'd be the one player they'd select ahead of Castle, in part because they'd still have Carter in their back pocket at 8.

They also claim Murray is more likely to be traded than Young (combination of market being "poor" and his being "on board with the plan").

Damn no wonder he looked pissed when Atlanta won the lottery. :lol

[DAF86]

if the top 2 picks wind up being clingan/sarr and we guarantee that one of risacher/sheppard will fall to us at 4, thats basically the best scenario we could ask for. or if hawks go with sarr/clingan and the wizards love buzelis as much as some people think

Dream scenario: Sarr, Clingan and Buzelis go 1, 2 and 3. Spurs select Risacher with 4 and one of Sheppard/Castle falls to 8.

[baseline bum]

I see him as a future all-star, tbh.

Maybe a Jamal Magloire or a Brandon Ingram that makes it once or twice.

[spurraider21]

I see him as a future all-star, tbh.
thought it was bertans but risacher was the chosen one after all!