2024 NBA Draft Thread

[Mr. Body]

News that the Spurs seem to be "making the eighth pick available." Just one site, Yahoo I believe. Not too surprising that they'd fish around with it to see what interest there is. The draft gets kind of iffy at that point for a little while.

[NASpurs]

He doesn't understand the commentary of a ST game thread :lol

Pretty amazing to be that retarded after being on the forum for 20 years. ducks level of retarded

[DPG21920]

If you had to make choice between Wesley and Dillingham, which do you think would be the better future guard?

Dilly

[DPG21920]

Castle + one of Devin Carter, Saluan and Knecht is fine with me tbh.

The real worst case scenario for them would be 1. Risacher 2. Castle 3. Sheppard.

I don't trust BWrong to trade down if that happens and I really don't want them picking Sarr and having to make that fit work.

That’s true. I’m good with Sarr if you get castle or Reed though.

[Mugen]

Pretty amazing to be that retarded after being on the forum for 20 years. ducks level of retarded

At least ducks is funny tbh.

[SpursFan86]

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

Givony’s final big board. Top 10 in order:

Risacher
Sarr
Clingan
Sheppard
Buzelis
Castle
Knecht
Dillingham
Salaun
Topic

[Mr. Body]

Pretty amazing to be that retarded after being on the forum for 20 years. ducks level of retarded

I love how obsessed y'all are. Everytime, the usual losers come out of the basement to pick each other's noses. I mean, people who don't even post at all, suddenly come in to fart and wheeze. It's pretty adorable, tbh.

[Thomas82]

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/

The Ringer has our boy at #1

And I see they have Sarr all the way down at #7.

[Ariel]

News that the Spurs seem to be "making the eighth pick available." Just one site, Yahoo I believe. Not too surprising that they'd fish around with it to see what interest there is. The draft gets kind of iffy at that point for a little while.
Honestly, I like it if true. Doesn't hurt to see what options are available out there, for sure I'd rather get a good player who fits rather than using it on Salaun.

[Leetonidas]

I love how obsessed y'all are. Everytime, the usual losers come out of the basement to pick each other's noses. I mean, people who don't even post at all, suddenly come in to fart and wheeze. It's pretty adorable, tbh.

No one is obsessed with you but you literally have like twice as many posts as anyone else in this thread so if you're going to spout off constantly dont get butthurt when people call you out. Not to mention you act like you're some genius compared to everyone else and act like your shit doesn't stink. Grow up man

[Pauleta14]

In thinking about it, worst case scenario for Spurs would be Risacher to ATL, Sarr to Was and Reed to HOU.

I dont see SA wanting Clingan so that doesnt help us in any way conceivably.

However, IF the draft starts with either Clingan, Sarr, Reed or Clingan, Risacher, Reed, then I think that scenario is perfect for SA to trade up from pick 8 to pick 5 or 6 and walk away with either Sarr + Castle or Risacher + Castle.

But if Clingan doesn’t go top 3, then it’s less desirable. I would be happy with 2 of 4: Sarr, Reed, Castle, Risacher.


To me the worst case scenario would be ZR, Castle and Reed gone before 4

[Rosewood]

To me the worst case scenario would be ZR, Castle and Reed gone before 4 I think Sarr at 4 is great value. Are you that low on him?

[baseline bum]

I dont think Keldons value is lower than Giddey after what we just saw and Giddey netted maybe the most coveted role player in the league straight up. One that reports said was getting multiple first round picks offers including top 10.

Giddey even in a terrible year had a VORP of 1.8 while Keldon was replacement level and only maxed out at a VORP of 0.9 two years ago in a contract year. Giddey is also thee years younger and still has a chance to get better while Keldon is about to turn 25 and is probably as good as he's ever going to get. I'd be surprised if there was any team who'd value Keldon over Giddey.

[TD 21]

:lmao Now one of the so-called Hawks insiders has done a 180 and is claiming the Hawks have two legitimate offers for Young, one is from the Spurs (won't divulge the other) and that picks from this draft are involved.

I don't buy it and am not advocating for it, but I'll play along: Young and 1 (Risacher) for Jones, Graham, 4 (Clingan), 8 (Williams?), Hawks '25 and '27 1sts.

[baseline bum]

New BR mock has the Grizzlies trading up to the #4 spot in a 3-team deal including the Spurs.






They also have Charlotte trading up to 3 in a 3-team deal to take Sheppard. It says the Hornets, Blazers, and Grizzlies have all reached out to HOU about trading up for that pick.


I would hate this trade personally. Smart is already 30 years old and doesn't fit Wemby's timeline at all. He also only has 2 years left on his deal. Makes very little sense for the Spurs so I don't think it happens. Decided to post anyways.


10125486-2024-nba-mock-draft-with-5-trades-in-round-1 (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10125486-2024-nba-mock-draft-with-5-trades-in-round-1)

I'd hate it too. Smart is who he is at 30 so no chance of him ever developing an offensive game. If Clingan is there at 8 I'd do the trade though if they could get a third team involved and get something nice for Smart.

[TimmehC]

KOC's player comps are hilariously awful. Like for Sheppard he lists Steve Nash and Derrick White. Because those two are so alike lmao

[djohn2oo8]

:lmao Now one of the so-called Hawks insiders has done a 180 and is claiming the Hawks have two legitimate offers for Young, one is from the Spurs (won't divulge the other) and that picks from this draft are involved.

I don't buy it and am not advocating for it, but I'll play along: Young and 1 (Risacher) for Jones, Graham, 4 (Clingan), 8 (Williams?), Hawks '25 and '27 1sts.
Would be a mistake to do that.

[djohn2oo8]

In thinking about it, worst case scenario for Spurs would be Risacher to ATL, Sarr to Was and Reed to HOU.

I dont see SA wanting Clingan so that doesnt help us in any way conceivably.

However, IF the draft starts with either Clingan, Sarr, Reed or Clingan, Risacher, Reed, then I think that scenario is perfect for SA to trade up from pick 8 to pick 5 or 6 and walk away with either Sarr + Castle or Risacher + Castle.

But if Clingan doesn’t go top 3, then it’s less desirable. I would be happy with 2 of 4: Sarr, Reed, Castle, Risacher.
Seems like Sarr wants to go to Washington.

[YoungbuckMurray]

Do you have a link to that rumor about the hawks/spurs trade for Young

[scott]

:lmao Now one of the so-called Hawks insiders has done a 180 and is claiming the Hawks have two legitimate offers for Young, one is from the Spurs (won't divulge the other) and that picks from this draft are involved.

I don't buy it and am not advocating for it, but I'll play along: Young and 1 (Risacher) for Jones, Graham, 4 (Clingan), 8 (Williams?), Hawks '25 and '27 1sts.

I just threw up all over myself

[TD 21]

Do you have a link to that rumor about the hawks/spurs trade for Young

2023-24 Insider Information Thread - Page 491 - Homecourt - Hawksquawk.net (https://www.hawksquawk.net/topic/437327-2023-24-insider-information-thread/page/491/#comment-1333742)


2023-24 Insider Information Thread - Page 492 - Homecourt - Hawksquawk.net (https://www.hawksquawk.net/topic/437327-2023-24-insider-information-thread/page/492/#comment-1333769)

[rascal]

Where would Sochan be drafted had he been in this draft?

[Ariel]

2023-24 Insider Information Thread - Page 491 - Homecourt - Hawksquawk.net (https://www.hawksquawk.net/topic/437327-2023-24-insider-information-thread/page/491/#comment-1333742)


2023-24 Insider Information Thread - Page 492 - Homecourt - Hawksquawk.net (https://www.hawksquawk.net/topic/437327-2023-24-insider-information-thread/page/492/#comment-1333769)
They have an "insider" thread? :lol

[Mnky]

:lmao Now one of the so-called Hawks insiders has done a 180 and is claiming the Hawks have two legitimate offers for Young, one is from the Spurs (won't divulge the other) and that picks from this draft are involved.

I don't buy it and am not advocating for it, but I'll play along: Young and 1 (Risacher) for Jones, Graham, 4 (Clingan), 8 (Williams?), Hawks '25 and '27 1sts.

Four 1st for trae and Ris including the Hawks picks? Yowza.
I can see three of those picks definitely including two this year maybe some 2nd round picks added on.

If they're sold on Ris, that wouldn't be bad if trae plans on trying on defense.

[jesterbobman]

I think Sarr is the best prospect in the draft, and is one of the types of bigs that I think could work with Wemby, as he covers a lot of ground, has actual promise as a floor spacer / face up big and could also function as a secondary / back up big in the back up minutes). It'd move Sochan to the bench, but I think that's fine.

My ideal early on was Sarr / Sheppard if we got two picks, and that now seems unlikely (as it seems impossible for either to reach 8.) I think I'd rather have Sarr + Dilly / Castle /Carter than other combos.

[objective]

This thread had talk a couple of days ago about the merits of trading for Cade Cunningham.

Count me in for pro-Cade-trade. If Langdon is ever going to remake the team in his own image now is the time to restart the tank clock and get extra picks in 2025. After firing the coach and gm, he has the freedom to move Cade now that might lose in the future.

I don't know if I'd give to both 24 picks + both atl picks, but maybe keep 4 or 8 and give them another protected pick in 25 to make up for it like the. Chicago pick.

[TD 21]

Four 1st for trae and Ris including the Hawks picks? Yowza.
I can see three of those picks definitely including two this year maybe some 2nd round picks added on.

If they're sold on Ris, that wouldn't be bad if trae plans on trying on defense.

Essentially, it'd be - 3 picks for the Spurs, but an upgrade of a pick.

[Pauleta14]

I think Sarr at 4 is great value. Are you that low on him?

I'm a biased negatively toward prospects from the Australian league, maybe more than player from Ignite.

I've never been impressed by what I saw and wonder if he's a good fit with Wemby

I think it would be a case of "we have to take him in term of pobabilities" more than "we're excited he's what we need"

[CGD]

https://sports.yahoo.com/with-bulls-roster-shakeup-underway-is-zach-lavine-the-next-piece-on-the-move-150136313.html



Very small tidbit in a fairly big article but fwiw.

With CHI making the move for Giddy and having White there too, I wonder if their price for Ayo drops. Ayo/11 for 8 would be nice.

[Mr. Body]

If the Spurs make 8 available, it could be contingent. Say, Chicago wants to jump up to grab somebody. Who it is, unsure. Meanwhile, the Spurs feel like they can still get their dude by dropping some. But this wouldn't trigger unless the Spurs think they can still get theirs.

[CGD]

If the Spurs make 8 available, it could be contingent. Say, Chicago wants to jump up to grab somebody. Who it is, unsure. Meanwhile, the Spurs feel like they can still get their dude by dropping some. But this wouldn't trigger unless the Spurs think they can still get theirs.

Totally. Clingan and Matas being there at 8 would help for CHI or MEM, or someone who still likes Topic wanting to get ahead of Utah at 10.

And then the Spurs could pick up someone like Cody a little later and not have it feel like a reach.

[spurraider21]

starting to read that Sarr to Wizards is a lock, which makes sense for them. in the weeks after the lottery, Sarr to the hawks was the foregone conclusion, but man there's just been a lot of smoke that they are deciding between Clingan/Risacher

[mystargtr34]

Will be very interesting to watch Chicago this off-season.

I don’t think Ayo is any more available now that Giddey is there. I think they will roll with a 3 guard rotation of White-Giddey-Ayo. They are kind of set at guard with 3 solid young pieces.

Rumours are they’re trying to offload Lavine with one scenario they get back Huerter and Barnes from the Kings. That gives them a 3 forward rotation of DeRozan, Pat Williams, Barnes with Huerter getting spot minutes at forward and guard.

Then you have Vuc and the backup C rounding out your 10 man rotation.

Wonder if they try and trade Vuc (they should since he sucks and doesn’t play defense).

In terms of their 11 pick I think they look at whoever’s available out of Cody Williams, Ron Holland, Salaun. Maybe they go C with Edey or Ware.

[mystargtr34]

starting to read that Sarr to Wizards is a lock, which makes sense for them. in the weeks after the lottery, Sarr to the hawks was the foregone conclusion, but man there's just been a lot of smoke that they are deciding between Clingan/Risacher

Clingan and Sarr going 1-2 in the draft would be a GREAT way to start for the Spurs. It’s pretty likely too imo. If I’m the GM of the Hawks I just do not feel comfortable taking Risacher 1 overall tbh. I like him and would be happy with him at 4 for the Spurs, but just doesn’t feel right picking him 1. Sarr at 1 is easier to justify but he isn’t giving the Hawks a workout lol.

[Mr. Body]

starting to read that Sarr to Wizards is a lock, which makes sense for them. in the weeks after the lottery, Sarr to the hawks was the foregone conclusion, but man there's just been a lot of smoke that they are deciding between Clingan/Risacher

Opinion is really firming that Sarr will go to Washington, and that this is his preference, leaving the question of whether Atlanta takes Risacher or Clingan.

[CGD]

Will be very interesting to watch Chicago this off-season.

I don’t think Ayo is any more available now that Giddey is there. I think they will roll with a 3 guard rotation of White-Giddey-Ayo. They are kind of set at guard with 3 solid young pieces.

Rumours are they’re trying to offload Lavine with one scenario they get back Huerter and Barnes from the Kings. That gives them a 3 forward rotation of DeRozan, Pat Williams, Barnes with Huerter getting spot minutes at forward and guard.

Then you have Vuc and the backup C rounding out your 10 man rotation.

Wonder if they try and trade Vuc (they should since he sucks and doesn’t play defense).

In terms of their 11 pick I think they look at whoever’s available out of Cody Williams, Ron Holland, Salaun. Maybe they go C with Edey or Ware.

Good analysis of the situation there

[Ariel]

Opinion is really firming that Sarr will go to Washington, and that this is his preference, leaving the question of whether Atlanta takes Risacher or Clingan.
Yup, board seems to be shaping up:
1) Risacher or Clingan
2) Sarr
3) Sheppard
4) Risacher (possibly, if Atlanta goes with Clingan) or Castle

Personally, if I'm Atlanta I play hardball and give Washington a big FU by taking Sarr anyway, and force them to give something up if they want him, plus dropping one slot reduces the salary.

Also, Detroit could be trying to trade down:
https://twitter.com/JLEdwardsIII/status/1804260622450012325

[Mr. Body]

Yup, board seems to be shaping up:
1) Risacher or Clingan
2) Sarr
3) Sheppard
4) Risacher (possibly, if Atlanta goes with Clingan) or Castle

Personally, if I'm Atlanta I play hardball and give Washington a big FU by taking Sarr anyway, and force them to give something up if they want him, plus dropping one slot reduces the salary.

Also, Detroit could be trying to trade down:
https://twitter.com/JLEdwardsIII/status/1804260622450012325

Feels like there will be a lot of contingency spells that will go off under certain circumstances. Detroit trades down if Risacher/Sheppard doesn't get to them, for example.

[TekXX]

Everyone predicts lots of moves but they don't end up happening

[Mr. Body]

Everyone predicts lots of moves but they don't end up happening

Obviously. What's different is how flat this draft is, fit becomes more important, so getting specific players. Probably nothing happens, but who knows.

[Wilt Chamberlain]

Obviously. What's different is how flat this draft is, fit becomes more important, so getting specific players. Probably nothing happens, but who knows.

Nah the draft just lacks prospects that look like likely All Stars and no likely All NBA.

That does not mean the talent doesn't drop from the top 5 or so of Sarr, Risacher, Castle, Sheppard, and/or Clingan who are likely starters.

[mystargtr34]

If I’m the Pistons I’m taking Clingan at 5 if he falls past the top 3. Duren to me is average at best. Less than a block a game, doesn’t even protect the rim. I then trade Duren for a much needed upgrade at the 4 who can provide shooting around Cade and Ausar such as Kuzma, Cam Johnson or Miles Bridges. Nets don’t need a C right now but Claxton is a UFA.

[Mr. Body]

Nah the draft just lacks prospects that look like likely All Stars and no likely All NBA.

That does not mean the talent doesn't drop from the top 5 or so of Sarr, Risacher, Castle, Sheppard, and/or Clingan who are likely starters.

Debateable, and really just buying into the fiction that a Risacher is any better than a Knecht. Very much a doubt. I do think the draft gets a little soft around picks 8 or 9, but then it picks up in terms of value for the spot. There are gems scattered, and the draft may be deeper than most. A lot of drafts are pretty much done around pick 20 and that won't be the case here.

[T Park]

Risacher then Trading up to get Castle would be perfect.

[Wilt Chamberlain]

Debateable, and really just buying into the fiction that a Risacher is any better than a Knecht. Very much a doubt. I do think the draft gets a little soft around picks 8 or 9, but then it picks up in terms of value for the spot. There are gems scattered, and the draft may be deeper than most. A lot of drafts are pretty much done around pick 20 and that won't be the case here.

You can throw Knecht up there or take Risacher down but I see a significant dropoff after that group.

Once you get past that second tier of guards and wings of the Holland, Buzelis, Salaun, Topic, Dillingham, Carter, Williams, and whoever you want to add to it there is another dropoff.

There are not many bigs in this draft worth a shit after the first two.

Spurs are pretty well positioned.

[Mr. Body]

You can throw Knecht up there or take Risacher down but I see a significant dropoff after that group.

Once you get past that second tier of guards and wings of the Holland, Buzelis, Salaun, Topic, Dillingham, Carter, Williams, and whoever you want to add to it there is another dropoff.

There are not many bigs in this draft worth a shit after the first two.

Spurs are pretty well positioned.

Seems fairly situational.

Say that Chicago wants the 8. This has been batted about on the rumor mill. Don't know who the Bulls want. But if the Spurs get to their second pick and there are still Carter and Dillingham on the board, or Carter and Topic, then the trade can make sense. They have to get through Chicago (at 8), Memphis, and Utah. Banking on neither Chicago nor Memphis wanting guards, they see one of their guys still there.

Going down to Portland at 14 is much riskier, as a different example.

There are a lot of players who will be swimming around those spots. Topic, Carter, Dillingham, Carrington, and rumors have guys like Kyshawn George and Johnny Furphy around the lottery range.

[Gandalf]

I don’t see the Spurs’ trading down as a wise move. First, you may not get your first choice. Second, others might trade up, and you may not get either guy you were hoping would fall. Third, what do you ‘gain’ from trading down? Another second-round pick? We have too many of those already, we can’t use them all.

I’d much rather trade up from 8 to 5 (or as high as we can get) by trading away a surplus second-rounder. ‘Spend’ the second rounders and keep the first rounders (particularly Atlanta’s).

[objective]

I believe in Shepperd as an NBA point guard more than Castle. I just like his passing more, and the shooting threat creates the space he needs.

[cutewizard]

https://www.poundingtherock.com/2024/6/21/24183476/spurs-draft-trade-free-agent-tobias-harris?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2qA7PumVABNKsg_a YUVRj0-0MIkSrLpQYNBtYYxJCLx1GHc7fW351wGc8_aem_BBBI1gngAmZ QdauV5w7EVA

[Wilt Chamberlain]

Seems fairly situational.

Say that Chicago wants the 8. This has been batted about on the rumor mill. Don't know who the Bulls want. But if the Spurs get to their second pick and there are still Carter and Dillingham on the board, or Carter and Topic, then the trade can make sense. They have to get through Chicago (at 8), Memphis, and Utah. Banking on neither Chicago nor Memphis wanting guards, they see one of their guys still there.

Going down to Portland at 14 is much riskier, as a different example.

There are a lot of players who will be swimming around those spots. Topic, Carter, Dillingham, Carrington, and rumors have guys like Kyshawn George and Johnny Furphy around the lottery range.

I see 12 or so to be another significant dropoff.

It's the difference between pick of the litter and getting the leftovers maybe.

[poopbox]

This thread had talk a couple of days ago about the merits of trading for Cade Cunningham.

Count me in for pro-Cade-trade. If Langdon is ever going to remake the team in his own image now is the time to restart the tank clock and get extra picks in 2025. After firing the coach and gm, he has the freedom to move Cade now that might lose in the future.

I don't know if I'd give to both 24 picks + both atl picks, but maybe keep 4 or 8 and give them another protected pick in 25 to make up for it like the. Chicago pick.

If we could trade for cade there is no pick I wouldn't put on the table. I big point guard like him with some offensive juice is a dream pairing with Victor. Detriot has almost limitless problems but Cade isn't one of them. I'd think the one thing Langdon can't do is trade Cade.

[sfernald]

SpursTalk despises Spurs players.

We just despise the bad ones, which happens to be most of em.

[PhantomDashCam]

https://youtu.be/sg0WcqgQ-tI?si=sntdsvqe7zNFP4RL

1804298219066704218

Nugget on Devin Carter in the Rusillo/Vencenie video.

”Last year we heard Jamie Jacques was the best player in every workout he was in. Just dominant.
We’re hearing the same this year with Devin Carter…only the praise is like double that.
He is absolutely murdering these workouts…”

No direct correlation to Spurs but if that was one of the ones mentioned, make of it what you will…

[tbdog]

If we could trade for cade there is no pick I wouldn't put on the table. I big point guard like him with some offensive juice is a dream pairing with Victor. Detriot has almost limitless problems but Cade isn't one of them. I'd think the one thing Langdon can't do is trade Cade.

Trading for Cade is almost a, 'put all your eggs in the same basket,' type of approach. Because Cade isn't there yet and most certainly be a rookie max contract. The idea of Cade is so intriguing though. I still think he is not a pure point and better suited off ball where he can he punish teams that chase him off the line.

[tbdog]

The mock free agency podcast I just listened to, had Naji Marshall signing with the Spurs. Thoughts?

[jesterbobman]

I would kind of expect Carter to be dominant in workouts, he's older than the guys he's competing with, has had more time to develop, and just based on 2023-24, he was better than them. He should be better.

When you're comparing, obviously being better is good. The question is whether Carter is 2-3 years better in terms of development, or a year or so.

I'd be disappointed if we took him in front of Castle or Reed, though fine with a choice between him and Dillingham at 8 (prefer Dillingham, but close enough to me).

[kobyz]

Would you do #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1?

[RobinsontoDuncan]

I highly doubt the Spurs would consider Ulrich Chomche with either of their top 10 picks (although, it wouldn't be the first time they went completely off the board) -- but he's my pick for random guy who came out of no where to be the best player in this draft.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-CeeUcbx-c

[tbdog]

Would you do #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1?

Considering the runoured top 2 are centers, then no.

[objective]

The mock free agency podcast I just listened to, had Naji Marshall signing with the Spurs. Thoughts?

I thought it was ridiculous. It was like 4/64 for someone a guy with 1 start last year and 7 points a game

I doubt Marshall even breaks the mle. Hell, maybe not more than the room exception if that

[objective]

https://youtu.be/sg0WcqgQ-tI?si=sntdsvqe7zNFP4RL

1804298219066704218

Nugget on Devin Carter in the Rusillo/Vencenie video.

”Last year we heard Jamie Jacques was the best player in every workout he was in. Just dominant.
We’re hearing the same this year with Devin Carter…only the praise is like double that.
He is absolutely murdering these workouts…”

No direct correlation to Spurs but if that was one of the ones mentioned, make of it what you will…

Carter's point guard skills are about on par with Sochan. He's not an impressive passer in everything I've seen, kind of basic, not great touch.

I think Castle has better creation and passing skills and I'm not at all a fan of Castle as a point guard.

Including how skeptical I am of his shooting, I think Carter is becoming one of the more overrated players in the class. Upperclassman bullies younger players and dominates with strength, while dishing basic passes and with every shot being a struggling launch, I'm not buying it. Happy to be proven wrong

[CGD]

Risacher then Trading up to get Castle would be perfect.

Ideal draft

[exstatic]

The mock free agency podcast I just listened to, had Naji Marshall signing with the Spurs. Thoughts?
Beyond meh.

[exstatic]

Carter's point guard skills are about on par with Sochan. He's not an impressive passer in everything I've seen, kind of basic, not great touch.

I think Castle has better creation and passing skills and I'm not at all a fan of Castle as a point guard.

Including how skeptical I am of his shooting, I think Carter is becoming one of the more overrated players in the class. Upperclassman bullies younger players and dominates with strength, while dishing basic passes and with every shot being a struggling launch, I'm not buying it. Happy to be proven wrong

Yeah, Carter isn’t a point. He’d need to be paired with a big creator of some kind.

[PhantomDashCam]

Saw on the SR workout list that Kel’el Ware had a workout with the Spurs.
No sign of Buzelis yet.

Based on the intel. we’ve read, I’m saying Spurs are going #4 Cody Williams, #8 Devin Carter and #35 Dillon Jones. They’ll probably trade out of #48.

You get two guys in Jones and Carter that can likely play with the Spurs day one with Cody likely sent to the G League.

My team from the draft:

G Reed Sheppard
G Bub Carrington
G/F Dillon Jones
F Stephon Castle
F Matas Buzelis

[spursparker9]

https://www.poundingtherock.com/2024/6/21/24183476/spurs-draft-trade-free-agent-tobias-harris?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2qA7PumVABNKsg_a YUVRj0-0MIkSrLpQYNBtYYxJCLx1GHc7fW351wGc8_aem_BBBI1gngAmZ QdauV5w7EVA

Tobias Harris? Only if for vet min

[TD 21]

These idiots are probably so far down the road with Castle, Salaun and their respective representation that even in the unlikely event they get lucky and Risacher falls to 4 or Sheppard is available, they're probably not budging.

Instead of a high floor, plug and play outcome like Risacher and Carter, they'll hope project, mystery box players can bloom quickly or else it'll be more time wasted for one of the GOAT prospects.

[Mr. Body]

I'm in on Castle and Carter both. It's like drafting a brick wall on defense. That would be amazing.

Super no thanks to Risacher, who looks like a pencil.

[Guru of Nothing]

My top 8 (and my opinions are starting to gel finally).

1. Stephon Castle
2. Reed Sheppard
3. Dalton Knect
4. Devin Carter
5. Matas Buzelis
6. Rob Dillingham
7. Tidjane Salaun
8. Tyler Kolek


I'm out on Risacher, Sarr, Holland, and Topic. I like Cody Williams and Donovan Clingan, just not enough to grab either with the 4th or 8th.

[Dejounte]

These idiots are probably so far down the road with Castle, Salaun and their respective representation that even in the unlikely event they get lucky and Risacher falls to 4 or Sheppard is available, they're probably not budging.

Instead of a high floor, plug and play outcome like Risacher and Carter, they'll hope project, mystery box players can bloom quickly or else it'll be more time wasted for one of the GOAT prospects.

69.29% of Spurstalk posters are not idiots for not wanting to take Risacher if he was available tbh.

[SpursBills]

Now that Sarr to the Wizards is a lock, it looks like the majority of the vocal posters here have separated into 3 camps mainly based on which prospect they dislike the most at #4:

1. "We need shooting", aka anti-Castle; Patron saint: TD21
2. "No shrimp guards", aka anti-Sheppard; Patron saint: rascal
3. "Risacher sucks" - self explanatory; Patron saint: Dejounte, MrBody

[Degoat]

My top prospects for the spurs, Locked in…

1. Risacher
2. Castle
3. Sheppard
4. Carter
5. Knecht
6. Dillingham
7. Salaun
8. Buzelis

[Dejounte]

Now that Sarr to the Wizards is a lock, it looks like the majority of the vocal posters here have separated into 3 camps mainly based on which prospect they dislike the most at #4:

1. "We need shooting", aka anti-Castle; Patron saint: TD21
2. "No shrimp guards", aka anti-Sheppard; Patron saint: rascal
3. "Risacher sucks" - self explanatory; Patron saint: Dejounte, MrBody

I don’t think he sucks. I think getting him with a top 7 pick is a waste and would set the team back years. They won’t have many opportunities like this year to pick this high. Use the pick on someone with a greater upside.

[KobesAchilles]

Now that Sarr to the Wizards is a lock, it looks like the majority of the vocal posters here have separated into 3 camps mainly based on which prospect they dislike the most at #4:

1. "We need shooting", aka anti-Castle; Patron saint: TD21
2. "No shrimp guards", aka anti-Sheppard; Patron saint: rascal
3. "Risacher sucks" - self explanatory; Patron saint: Dejounte, MrBody
I’m in group 1 :lol

[z0sa]

Just read ESPN is calling Sarr to the Wizards and ATL will decide between Risacher and Clingan.

If they choose Clingan, and Houston goes Reed, we draft Risacher and whoever is left of Dilly and Knecht. I wouldn't be opposed to trading up for Castle, either, and with Risacher wearing a Spurs hat, that's probably the smartest move.

[poopbox]

Trading for Cade is almost a, 'put all your eggs in the same basket,' type of approach. Because Cade isn't there yet and most certainly be a rookie max contract. The idea of Cade is so intriguing though. I still think he is not a pure point and better suited off ball where he can he punish teams that chase him off the line.

Cade has some warts in his game but I'd be perfectly fine giving up whatever it took in draft capital to get him, instantly max him (it's a rookie level max with the cap starting to increase around 8 to 10% a year starting next off season). 6 "8" guard who can handle, pass, and is a improved 3 point shot away from being a 3 level scorer paired with Wemby? No brainer.

[Notorious H.O.P.]

"Further down the draft, the Suns are a strong candidate to trade down from No. 22. The goal for the Suns, Fischer reports, would be to accumulate future second round picks while moving down in the first in order to restock their draft capital for trade flexibility. Additionally, adding several rookie contracts onto an expensive roster holds appeal for Phoenix."

Would anybody here trade four second rounders for pick 22 in this draft?

[scott]

Trading up to #1 seemed like KOC wishcasting before... but now Stein is saying maybe there is some truth to it. Honestly I hope not.

1804571823889432670

[scott]

"Further down the draft, the Suns are a strong candidate to trade down from No. 22. The goal for the Suns, Fischer reports, would be to accumulate future second round picks while moving down in the first in order to restock their draft capital for trade flexibility. Additionally, adding several rookie contracts onto an expensive roster holds appeal for Phoenix."

Would anybody here trade four second rounders for pick 22 in this draft?

I'd love to, and grab Tyler Smith. Immediately slots in to backup PF, with starter potential down the line.

[Pauleta14]

Would you do #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1?

I'm not sure ATL 25' is worth this year's ATL's 1st

[mo7888]

So Nola and Phoenix wanting to trade their first for 2nds... I like ot... if we can trade #8 + something for a real player and trade 2nds to get a 20 something 1st that would be a strong play..

[mo7888]

I'm not sure ATL 25' is worth this year's ATL 1

This... 100%

[pad300]

"Further down the draft, the Suns are a strong candidate to trade down from No. 22. The goal for the Suns, Fischer reports, would be to accumulate future second round picks while moving down in the first in order to restock their draft capital for trade flexibility. Additionally, adding several rookie contracts onto an expensive roster holds appeal for Phoenix."

Would anybody here trade four second rounders for pick 22 in this draft?

I would happily do that or the NOP proposal. I would go higher at 5 seconds for either 21 or 22. I would not do both though...

[Kurik]

Would getting #22 from Phoenix then potentially trading #8 and #22 for DET’s #5 be worth it? A lot of this depends on the how the top 3 shakes out but seems worthwhile.

[Mr. Body]

I'm not sure ATL 25' is worth this year's ATL's 1st

Risacher should be around 6-10 in this draft. In a normal draft he'd go around where Gradey Dick went last year.

[LeBowen]

The only way I'd trade up for #1 is with #8 and SRPs.
Get those #21 and #22 picks from Phoenix and NOLA, use them to trade up to #1.

#8, #21, #22 for #1 seems about right in this draft.
If Hawks don't like it, they can draft Clingan at #1.

[Mr. Body]

I'm not sure ATL 25' is worth this year's ATL's 1st

Risacher should be around 8-10 in this draft. In a normal draft he'd go around where Gradey Dick went last year.

[BacktoBasics]

I would happily do that or the NOP proposal. I would go higher at 5 seconds for either 21 or 22. I would not do both though...

I would be interested in Edey if he were available there.

[BacktoBasics]

Trading up to #1 seemed like KOC wishcasting before... but now Stein is saying maybe there is some truth to it. Honestly I hope now.

1804571823889432670would be odd to move up. Not only are giving up capital but you’re going to have pay that player more money.

[DPG21920]

If Spurs move up I hope they take Reed

[SpursFan86]

If Spurs move up I hope they take Reed

Pretty much. Moving up just to take Risacher would be disappointing…Sheppard is still iffy (depending on what they have to give up, of course) but I would most likely be fine with it.

[LeBowen]

Pretty much. Moving up just to take Risacher would be disappointing…Sheppard is still iffy (depending on what they have to give up, of course) but I would most likely be fine with it.

Was just thinking about this and if Spurs trade up, I'd be willing to bet it's for Sheppard.
Sarr to Wizards looks like the most likely outcome.
Hawks and Rockets definitely don't need Castle.
I'd argue Rockets don't need Risacher because they already have all the wing that lack self-creation they need.
Imo, they're either getting Sheppard or trading the pick.

There were almost no reports about Spurs being high on Sheppard, which often means he's the guy they want.
And we're probably not getting him at #4 because of Rockets.
A lot of whataboutism, but I just can't see them trading up for Risacher.

I'm not a Brian Wright fan, but if he manages to pull off Sheppard and Castle picks in this draft, hats off.

[BacktoBasics]

Was just thinking about this and if Spurs trade up, I'd be willing to bet it's for Sheppard.
Sarr to Wizards looks like the most likely outcome.
Hawks and Rockets definitely don't need Castle.
I'd argue Rockets don't need Risacher because they already have all the wing that lack self-creation they need.
Imo, they're either getting Sheppard or trading the pick.

There were almost no reports about Spurs being high on Sheppard, which often means he's the guy they want.
And we're probably not getting him at #4 because of Rockets.
A lot of whataboutism, but I just can't see them trading up for Risacher.

I'm not a Brian Wright fan, but if he manages to pull off Sheppard and Castle picks in this draft, hats off.

Hypothetically if they moved some combination of 4 and 8(plus whatever) to Atlanta which includes Dejonte then I think they’d like Risacher over Sheppard in that scenario.

[SpursFan86]

if he manages to pull off Sheppard and Castle picks in this draft, hats off.

Yeah that would be incredible. This might be generous but something like:

4 + Chicago 2025 FRP + future SRPs for 1 (Sheppard)
8 + 35 to move up to 5 or 6 (Castle)

Going full armchair GM at this point and it’s not happening but would be sweet :lol

[Blizzardwizard]

The only reason they'd trade up is if they *really* want Risacher and Atlanta are threatening to take him. Just can't see it being for Sheppard.


Without that trade the only ways I can see it going are:

1) Risacher ATL
2) Sarr WAS
3) Sheppard HOU/Clingan trade up CHA/POR/MEM/CHI
4) Castle SAS

or

1) Clingan ATL
2) Sarr WAS
3) Sheppard HOU
4) Risacher SAS


I suspect if the Spurs had the top two picks they'd take Risacher then Castle.

[goliath]

On the ringer nba draft pod, all three hosts thought the spurs interest in risacher was a smoke screen to cover who they were really interested in

[BackHome]

As far as trades I am open to just not doing any trade that would improve Atlanta - No way am I helping them and no way am I trading for anyone with those two unprotected picks

[Mr. Body]

On the ringer nba draft pod, all three hosts thought the spurs interest in risacher was a smoke screen to cover who they were really interested in

I'm right there, and it could be Sheppard, but I don't think so.

Trading up for a Risacher would be astonishingly bad.

[BackHome]

I'd love to, and grab Tyler Smith. Immediately slots in to backup PF, with starter potential down the line.

I think Tyler is definitely going to go in the 12 to 15 range and I would pick him over Salaun all day every day. Three other players I would think they would target if trading back would be Da Silva, Furpy, and Carlton Carrington

[RC_Drunkford]

a lot of options for the Spurs tbh. We have a load of 2nd rounders including #35 and could trade them for NOLA and Suns first. Then we could package those for players or trade ups. I like our situation.

[LeBowen]

I'm right there, and it could be Sheppard, but I don't think so.

Trading up for a Risacher would be astonishingly bad.

When was the last time everyone kept talking about a Spurs trade target and it actually happened?
That's why I think Risacher interest isn't a thing. Unless he's there at #4.

[Mr. Body]

When was the last time everyone kept talking about a Spurs trade target and it actually happened?
That's why I think Risacher interest isn't a thing. Unless he's there at #4.

Yeah, I'm not even convinced they'd pick Risacher over Sheppard or Castle if all three are available, much less trade up to get him.

Atlanta is in a bad spot. There's a weird disadvantage in getting the #1 in this draft with their needs. My feeling is Risacher is still a screen, or rather bait, trying to get a trade, but that they'll pivot to Clingan. Clingan just gives their team much more shape, is a great dump-target, solidifies their defense. I don't know what Risacher does for them. They already have forwards.

[Mr. Body]

So...

I think we're looking at what most of us think - Clingan, Sarr, probably Sheppard

Then the big question we all have about Risacher or Castle for the Spurs.

[Russ]

On the ringer nba draft pod, all three hosts thought the spurs interest in risacher was a smoke screen to cover who they were really interested in

Risacher a smoke screen?

Could Risacher be the Pas-de-Calais?

Might Sarr be Normandy?

[TD 21]

I don't buy and am not advocating Stein's seeming indication that Sarr would be the target in a trade up to 1 scenario, but I'll play along: If true, Sochan needs to go (as a poor man's Jalen Johnson, he probably wouldn't have much value to them though).

If they're going Eiffel Towers, then the third big needs to be a "laser" of a stretch four.


69.29% of Spurstalk posters are not idiots for not wanting to take Risacher if he was available tbh.

I was clearly referencing PATFO.


Hypothetically if they moved some combination of 4 and 8(plus whatever) to Atlanta which includes Dejonte then I think they’d like Risacher over Sheppard in that scenario.

I suspect that's the only scenario they'd move up for because if they're going to come out of this lottery without a guard of some sort, then it'll be because they've got their long term lead guard via trade.

[Ariel]

4 + Chicago 2025 FRP + future SRPs for 1 (Sheppard)
Overpay

8 + 35 to move up to 5 or 6 (Castle)
Underpay

[exstatic]

"Further down the draft, the Suns are a strong candidate to trade down from No. 22. The goal for the Suns, Fischer reports, would be to accumulate future second round picks while moving down in the first in order to restock their draft capital for trade flexibility. Additionally, adding several rookie contracts onto an expensive roster holds appeal for Phoenix."

Would anybody here trade four second rounders for pick 22 in this draft?

No. 35 probably holds more value than a late FRP.

[Ariel]

Trading up to #1 seemed like KOC wishcasting before... but now Stein is saying maybe there is some truth to it. Honestly I hope not.

1804571823889432670
It's probably Atlanta seeding all sorts of rumors to entice someone to move up, since it's become apparent they won't take Sarr and could get their target by trading back. I don't think the media has any clue as to what the Spurs are going to do.

[CGD]

Trading up to #1 seemed like KOC wishcasting before... but now Stein is saying maybe there is some truth to it. Honestly I hope not.

1804571823889432670

Has Marc Stien predicted anything noteworthy in recent years? I just don’t see why the Spurs would want to move up to 1; feels like ATL driving that narrative.

[kjhip1]

Has Marc Stien predicted anything noteworthy in recent years? I just don’t see why the Spurs would want to move up to 1; feels like ATL driving that narrative.

Wasn’t it all started by Givony from ESPN insinuating SA would possibly trade 4 and next years 25 ATL pick back to them?

[Mr. Body]

As in the other thread, assuming the Spurs want Risacher:

ATL: 50/50
WAS: X
HOU: X

Atlanta wants to get the Spurs to bite on Risacher. They've already said they like Clingan. There's risk that Houston might take and trade Clingan if he drops, but this seems like Houston is okay with that situation if they can get more out of their pick. All the Spurs need to do is call their bluff and have them take a wing, when their needs are heavier elsewhere and they've already indicated they like Clingan.

If the Spurs value a different player, Atlanta may also be searching this out, but since Sarr to Washington is a given, they probably don't think the Spurs want him. Bad fit and what not. Atlanta has floated a little interest in Castle, trying to smoke the Spurs out, but this hasn't gone far.

Just doesn't make sense to trade up.

[Mr. Body]

Wasn’t it all started by Givony from ESPN insinuating SA would possibly trade 4 and next years 25 ATL pick back to them?

Givony said 4+8. I believe all the rumors came from him.

[Russ]

No. 35 probably holds more value than a late FRP.

Which is why last year's Spurs' second round is so inexplicable.

[The Truth #6]

Lots of thought exercises on what Atlanta should do. Doesn't seem like SA would want that at all. Unless, they really want a certain player, or only want one rookie this year for some reason --perhaps because they still need more time with Branham and Wesley? The horror.

[CGD]

So...

I think we're looking at what most of us think - Clingan, Sarr, probably Sheppard

Then the big question we all have about Risacher or Castle for the Spurs.

My sincere hope is that the Spurs are already talking to DET about what they need for 5. CHA too, but I think their price at 6 will be super high if Castle is within grasp. I do believe this FO will select ZR at 4, so I don’t think there is a bluff for DET to call.

If a trade up scenario doesn’t materialize, Carter should become the target at 8 IMO.

[Notorious H.O.P.]

No. 35 probably holds more value than a late FRP.

I normally agree but I know several here have favorites that won't be there at 35. They're interested in Kolek, Carrington, Smith, Edey, Furphy, Scheierman, Dadiet, etc. Maybe the Spurs like one of these guys too.

I'd rather trade seconds for future firsts myself.

[Uriel]

For all the smoke and mirrors, the top of this draft is really simple. Atlanta drafts Clingan. Washington gets Sarr. Houston nabs Sheppard. And we select Risacher. Everyone gets the top choice on their draft board. Everyone is happy.

[baseline bum]

Givony said 4+8. I believe all the rumors came from him.

God I'd hate that. Don't feel strongly enough about any prospect to convert two swings to one when it's extremely likely the Spurs will have at least one of Risacher, Castle, and Sheppard to choose from at 4. Any of the three would make me happy at 4.

[PhantomDashCam]

For my tin-foil hat compadres.

Two notable names absent from the workout tracker atm - Matas Buzelis and Cody Williams and a third that is on the rise
in Carlton Carrington.

Sochan and Primo both didn’t show up on the tracker pre-draft. And although I can’t confirm it now, also believe Vassell wasn’t on that list at the time.

[mo7888]

For my tin-foil hat compadres.

Two notable names absent from the workout tracker atm - Matas Buzelis and Cody Williams and a third that is on the rise
in Carlton Carrington.

Sochan and Primo both didn’t show up on the tracker pre-draft. And although I can’t confirm it now, also believe Vassell wasn’t on that list at the time.

I've thought Matas is who we're targeting for a while now. Maybe it's confirmation bias because he's #2 on my Spurs board, but I think he's got a real shot to be the best player in this draft.

[kobyz]

I'm not sure ATL 25' is worth this year's ATL's 1st

You over optimistic, more chances it's not a lottery pick

[scottspurs]

I've thought Matas is who we're targeting for a while now. Maybe it's confirmation bias because he's #2 on my Spurs board, but I think he's got a real shot to be the best player in this draft.
#1 player on my board I would be pumped!!

[ismael-robert]

If stupid spurs just kept properly tanking they wouldn't have to be giving up assets. For the longest time they were below Washington who properly tanked to secure #2. 7 extra pointless wins going to cost us valuable capital

[Mr. Body]

If stupid spurs just kept properly tanking they wouldn't have to be giving up assets. For the longest time they were below Washington who properly tanked to secure #2. 7 extra pointless wins going to cost us valuable capital

What assets are they giving up? Why would they want to move up? Do you know how the lottery works?

[Pauleta14]

You over optimistic, more chances it's not a lottery pick

- ATL's 25 has more value than just the pick. It paralises ATL in their short term strategy and is a massive leverage asset for the Spurs.

- What's the worst case scenario? a 12th-15th pick in 25'? It's like a 3rd-4th pick this season

- Unless improbable scenario (ATL suddenly clicking and fighting for the 1st places) the pick will gain value with time. Spurs don't have to be pro active but just wait for teams coming to them or for the 25' lottery

[Ariel]

If stupid spurs just kept properly tanking they wouldn't have to be giving up assets. For the longest time they were below Washington who properly tanked to secure #2. 7 extra pointless wins going to cost us valuable capital
Spurs finished #5, behind Detroit, Washington, Charlotte and Portland. Of all those teams with better odds, just Washington is picking higher. That should be enough to tell you how wrong your assessment is.

[SpursBills]

https://x.com/paigeotto_/status/1804502226443939913

Does anyone know how Buzelis actually shot throughout high school? My understanding was that he had one good shooting year his senior year, but otherwise was pretty mediocre. If he was a good shooter all through HS, that changes his shooting projection a bit.

Also, lol at this interview. "I shot well in practices, it was just the game, you know"

[ismael-robert]

Spurs finished #5, behind Detroit, Washington, Charlotte and Portland. Of all those teams with better odds, just Washington is picking higher. That should be enough to tell you how wrong your assessment is.

Nope cause if we secured 2 (record, not pick since yall need clarity) instead of Washington we would have kept our pick as they did

[scott]

#1 player on my board I would be pumped!!

Maybe it's a scott thing, but Matas also #1 on my board. Also - scottspurs (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=17106) and I are not the same person

[The Truth #6]

For my tin-foil hat compadres.

Two notable names absent from the workout tracker atm - Matas Buzelis and Cody Williams and a third that is on the rise
in Carlton Carrington.

Sochan and Primo both didn’t show up on the tracker pre-draft. And although I can’t confirm it now, also believe Vassell wasn’t on that list at the time.

I actually think that could be spot on.

What type of players have they been preaching and drafting? 18-19 year olds. Multi positional. Mature/intelligent. And oddly, most importantly, interview extremely well.

Based on that: Risacher, Buzelis, Cody could be their top 3.

Obviously just speculating.

And to go drunken armchair psychiatrist :

Reed: too short.
Clingman: too ugly
Castle: too intense
Carter: too old
Dillingham: too short
Knecht: too old, too similar to Lil Weezy
Holland: too dumb
Collier: too dumb
Topic: actually, still a possibility

[cutewizard]

https://www.poundingtherock.com/2024/6/22/24179726/spurs-vasilije-micic-sasha-vezenkov-trade-euroleague-mvp?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1jsb7ecAjuQQ5jvx4Ll xIQ2G376oTYHx45V2zW0VikTaNGHc2zMnRkzvc_aem_tGSk7zV 62Kyi5vrpY0M_dw


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Spurs should consider taking a flyer on two former Euroleague MVPs
San Antonio could find cheap playmaking and shooting in Vasilije Micic and Sasha Vezenkov, two proven talents still trying to find their way in the NBA.

The Spurs were pioneers in looking overseas for talent. In the contending years under Gregg Popovich, they scouted the FIBA game well and added rotation players who learned their trade in Europe.


Since those days the league has caught up and players are in teams’ radars early. More and more international prospects get drafted and join the league quickly, and the ones who can’t perform at the highest level are discarded. It’s harder now to find uncovered gems overseas.


But what about some highly decorated players who made the leap and simply didn’t have the opportunity to adjust? If the team is looking to add some veterans to replace the ones it has lost, taking a look at some European standouts on short, team-friendly deals could be worth it in this transitional period.


Vasilije Micic could be the big combo guard the Spurs need
Last season the coaching staff tried to play bigger ball handlers at point guard, with Jeremy Sochan and then Malaki Branham being the lead guards. In past years, they used Josh Richardson and Josh Primo as main ball handlers off the bench. Tre Jones ended up as the starter because the others struggled, but the idea of a big playmaker is clearly appealing to Gregg Popovich.


Enter Vasilije Micic. The 30-year-old 6’5 point guard joined the Thunder last season after being crowned Euroleague MVP but couldn’t crack the rotation for a contender. He came off the bench for 30 games and struggled with scoring and efficiency, which wasn’t hugely surprising for his adaptation period. Then he was traded to the Hornets and his numbers improved in a bigger role, with his assist percentage in particular climbing heavily. Micic, who didn’t find his stroke from outside in the NBA, also worked with the Hornets’ shot doctor despite shooting over 37 percent from outside for his career, which shows he’s humble and willing to continue to learn. A veteran with no ego trying to live his NBA dream could bring a different perspective to a young locker room and Micic has the skill to help on offense.


The issues with Micic come on the defensive end, where he can struggle to stay in front of quicker players. The Spurs have good point-of-attack defenders that could use help creating in Jeremy Sochan and Blake Wesley so it shouldn’t be too hard to hide Micic on spot-up shooters while he shares playmaking duties.


Micic has one more guaranteed year in his contract worth close to $8 million and then a club option, so he’s essentially on an expiring deal. If he works out, the Spurs can keep him for cheap and if he doesn’t, they can use his contract as salary ballast on a trade or waive him. The Hornets shouldn’t be too attached to him but might want to wait until after the Olympics to move him to see if he can improve his trade value. Still, the Spurs have plenty of second-rounders to make a deal happen.


Sasha Vezenkov could spread the floor for Victor Wembanyama
Spacing and outside shooting have been a severe issue for the Spurs in recent years. Too many of their players can’t shoot or are not consistent enough to punish defenses that overhelp or pack the paint. Last season San Antonio took the 11th most threes per game but ranked 28th in three-point shooting percentage, which shows that opponents were fine with allowing them to pull the trigger from outside because they knew they wouldn’t make them pay.


The team as a whole will have to do better in that area for the offense to click, but Sasha Vezenkov could help the Spurs a lot in terms of spacing. The 2022 Euroleague MVP joined the Kings last season but couldn’t carve out a place for himself and ended up playing just 12 minutes a game and appearing in 42 games, partially because of injuries. In that small of a role, the 6’8 power forward still managed to launch 120 threes and connect on 45, to finish the year as a 37.5 percent shooter from outside. The only two players with a better shooting percentage in last season’s Spurs’ roster were Doug McDermott and Cedi Osman, the guys Vezenkov would be replacing. Vezenkov, who shot 40 percent in his career in Europe, is a volume shooter who can fire on spot-up situations or on the move, coming off screens or after handoffs, so defenses have to respect him.


As with Micic, defense is an issue. Vezenkov is a good defensive rebounder but could get targeted on the pick-and-roll, especially if the Spurs continue to switch those actions. Having Wembanyama on the back line should help mitigate his individual issues and his experience should allow him to play well enough at the team level to avoid being a liability.


Vezenkov, just like Micic, has one more guaranteed year on his contract and a team option for the year after. The Kings have an expensive roster and are reportedly in the process of parting ways with him, since he’s not happy in Sacramento and he’s not a priority for the team. If the Spurs don’t think Sandro Mamukelashvili can fill the role of stretch forward, Vezenkov could be a good, cheap option.

[cutewizard]

what do you think guys?

[cutewizard]

hmmmmmmm

[Pauleta14]

https://x.com/paigeotto_/status/1804502226443939913

Does anyone know how Buzelis actually shot throughout high school? My understanding was that he had one good shooting year his senior year, but otherwise was pretty mediocre. If he was a good shooter all through HS, that changes his shooting projection a bit.

Also, lol at this interview. "I shot well in practices, it was just the game, you know"

There's a thin line between confidense and delusion that he doesn't seem shy to cross in most of his interviews.

Some like it, I see a red flag from a kid that disapointed. It would be diff from someone who just won a title or had a great season

[Ariel]

Nope cause if we secured 2 instead of Washington we would have kept our pick as they did
There's no securing anything, just ask Detroit that ended with the worst record for 3 years in a row only to pick #5 each time. In fact even if the Spurs ended with a bottom 3 record, they'd have had a 40.1% chance of ending up with a better pick than they did (1-3), 12% of getting #4, and a 47.9% chance of ending up worse (5+). So no, your statement is totally clueless.

[PhantomDashCam]

Maybe it's a scott thing, but Matas also #1 on my board. Also - scottspurs (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=17106) and I are not the same person

Definitely smoke screen season... :lol

[ismael-robert]

There's no securing anything, just ask Detroit that ended with the worst record for 3 years in a row only to pick #5 each time. In fact even if the Spurs ended with a bottom 3 record, they'd have had a 40.1% chance of ending up with a better pick than they did (1-3), 12% of getting #4, and a 47.9% chance of ending up worse (5+). So no, your statement is totally clueless.

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand

[kobyz]

- ATL's 25 has more value than just the pick. It paralises ATL in their short term strategy and is a massive leverage asset for the Spurs.

- What's the worst case scenario? a 12th-15th pick in 25'? It's like a 3rd-4th pick this season

- Unless improbable scenario (ATL suddenly clicking and fighting for the 1st places) the pick will gain value with time. Spurs don't have to be pro active but just wait for teams coming to them or for the 25' lottery

I think it has very slim chance to be better than 12th-15th with teams gonna tank very hard this year while Atlanta the opposite with not having their pick... Trading #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1 should sound very appealing to us!

[BatManu20]

3 days gentlemen.

[Ignazzz]

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand
It is even harder understand that You dont get lottery still.

[John B]

I’m warming on Castle at 4, and Carter at 8.

Castle, Carter, Vassell, Sochan, Wemby.

Spurs defense would be so much better.

[BatManu20]

I’m warming on Castle at 4, and Carter at 8.

Castle, Carter, Vassell, Sochan, Wemby.

Spurs defense would be so much better.

Same. That's becoming my dream draft tbh. Worried Salaun or Williams will be the pick at 8 though which will be annoying.

[Pauleta14]

I think it has very slim chance to be better than 12th-15th with teams gonna tank very hard this year while Atlanta the opposite with not having their pick... Trading #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1 should sound very appealing to us!

To me it's an overpay.

Trust me I'm among those who want to accelerate the process but there isn't one "sure" pick in this draft worth giving up ATL's 25'

RZ is my pick but if I'm honest there are plenty of doubts too. Sarr same, maybe more doubts bc of the league he comes from.

Castle Reed Dilli Cody Carter... all have huge interogations too.

Again atl's 25' has a lot more value than the future choice itself. It's a leverage's asset and it can be addded to Spur's pick to trade up to get a almost garanteed futur allsar.

I think the wait is so long that we end up overrating whoever we prefer in this draft, forgetting that it's clearly a weak one.

At best I can imagine PATFO using 2Rds picks and maybe CHA 25', CHI's as well and player(s)

[TrainOfThought5]

Would you do #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1?

absolutely not.

[DPG21920]

I think it has very slim chance to be better than 12th-15th with teams gonna tank very hard this year while Atlanta the opposite with not having their pick... Trading #8 and next year Atlanta pick for this year #1 should sound very appealing to us!

It’s probably fair but I wouldn’t do it. But it’s fair.

I’d rather trade 4 + 8 to be honest and I dont really want to do that either.

[ismael-robert]

It is even harder understand that You dont get lottery still.

Does ignazz mean ignorant azz? Oh my gosh people yes I get Washington was LUCKY to not have moved, I'm SIMPLY saying their luck could've been spurs luck now move on

[Ariel]

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand
You're implying if the Spurs had tanked harder their pick would have been better. It's factually incorrect, and using the fact that Washington coincidentally ended up in the same slot pre and post lottery doesn't prove anything. If you don't understand this very simple and basic fact you have deeper issues with logic that I can't help you sort out.

[ismael-robert]

Did u read post I made before yours, if u can't understand still I can't help u. I haven't mentioned any other team's outcome other than Washington so focus on context

[Obstructed_View]

I've been researching a bit on guys who rose to the top of their drafts. Some of you have seen some of my posts about it. Work ethic seems to be a factor that is more useful than many common measurables.

Just for fun, I'm gonna put on my Carnak hat and go all in on the future best player from this draft: Jared McCain. If you believe the grapevine about what a hard worker he is, and if my theory has any basis in reality, here's your all-star. :lol

I'm certain someone will bump this when he signs in China. :lmao

[baseline bum]

If stupid spurs just kept properly tanking they wouldn't have to be giving up assets. For the longest time they were below Washington who properly tanked to secure #2. 7 extra pointless wins going to cost us valuable capital

So Wemby's 40/20 game vs the Knicks was pointless? Wemby's dad block on Chet game where he destroyed Holmgren down the stretch? His 17 points in 3 minutes vs Denver was pointless? It's kind of ridiculous to condition on results of a lottery after the fact when being in fifth place vs second for the worst record doesn't change the odds a whole lot with how flattened the lottery has become.

[scott]

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand

You need to watch Back 2 The Future. I think that may help you understand your logical fallacy here.

[Teamduncan21]

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand

Because we do not know Washington would get second pick back then. We could have tanked much harder like Detroit and end up at 5.

Hindsight is 20-20. So now we know that Washington kept their pick. If we would have tanked too hard we would end up like Detroit. Or slightly less hard. End up like Charlotte.

At that point. We didn't know.

So for example. I could say we could have played harder to be rank 10th or whatever hawks pick was. So that we get first pick. Or whatever rockets were to get third pick.

But how do we know?

[rascal]

So Wemby's 40/20 game vs the Knicks was pointless? Wemby's dad block on Chet game where he destroyed Holmgren down the stretch? His 17 points in 3 minutes vs Denver was pointless? It's kind of ridiculous to condition on results of a lottery after the fact when being in fifth place vs second for the worst record doesn't change the odds a whole lot with how flattened the lottery has become.


Yeah, many of those late season wins were pontless and does nothing for the future of the spurs. Had they lost all those games it would do nothing going into this season. Sochan and Vassell weren't even playing in many of those late season wins.

They were against tanking teams or the lucky last second one point home win against denver or injured teams like the Knicks. It got the fans excited but that's about it.

It's a new year with player changes and a clean slate of games. Had they won or lost it doesn't make any difference for this year, there is no carry over from last year.

Would you make the same claim the year before that it doesn't make any difference had the Spurs won late season games and ended up in fifth instead of third with Wemby on the line?
Of course it made a difference to end up in the bottom three which gave the spurs more lottery combinations and a better chance for Wemby.

[Mr. Body]

“I think we’re going to get a good player at five. We like five a lot. We’re looking for the guy we feel has the best upside out of this draft and if that guy’s not there at five and there’s a team that’s willing to give us an asset value to flip back, then maybe that’s an opportunity, as well."

That's Trajan Langdon, Detroit GM. IMM, dialog with Detroit and Charlotte is key here. Being aggressive with that 8 pick may be a really good play, as we have tons of SRPs and that CHA first may be in play. Depending on the Buzelis/Tellum connection, Detroit's best play is probably squeezing out some value. Charlotte's probably is, too, unless they're in love with somebody.

If the team really likes Risacher (or Sheppard), you can still be aggro and grab your second choice.

[LeBowen]

Sochan and Vassell weren't even playing in many of those late season wins.

This is actually really important.
It showed that other than Wemby, noone on this roster is worth shit.
Devin needs to become more consistent and take resposnibility rather than deferring to scrubs like Sochan and the rest of them need to spend the entire summer in the gym if they're to stay in the league.


They were against tanking teams or the lucky last second one point home win against denver or injured teams like the Knicks. It got the fans excited but that's about it.

Also won against Pelicans and Suns.
Had close games against Warriors and Sixers, another close game at Denver.


It's a new year with player changes and a clean slate of games. Had they won or lost it doesn't make any difference for this year, there is no carry over from last year.

For me there definitely is some carry over.
I was really disappointed how Devin kind of just disappeared in a lot of games considering he should've been the only reliable perimeter scorer on the team.
Another carry over is how horrible Jeremy and Keldon were.
Tre definitely improved his stock, especially with his better 3pt shooting.
Wesley played himself out of the league, tbh.


Would you make the same claim the year before that it doesn't make any difference had the Spurs won late season games and ended up in fifth instead of third with Wemby on the line?
Of course it made a difference to end up in the bottom three which gave the spurs more lottery combinations and a better chance for Wemby.

It was still 14% luck. Top three odds are worth getting into, but after that there's not much difference and teams always move up or down.

[exstatic]

Even if we tanked down to 2, chaos theory says that that combination wouldn’t necessarily pop out like it did this time.

[SpursFan86]

https://bbs.clutchfans.net/threads/ch44-bomb.323535/

ClutchFans thread of them melting down because one of their apparent insiders posted that it’s very likely they trade down. Based on their reaction seems like the dude is usually pretty reliable but who knows.

Risacher/Sarr/Clingan going in the top 3 would be incredible…give us Sheppard at 4.

[rascal]

[QUOTE Risacher/Sarr/Clingan going in the top 3 would be incredible…give us Sheppard at 4.[/QUOTE]

Don't count on it.

Spurs will go Castle in that scenario.

[SpursFan86]

I like Castle but I will get some serious blue balls if Sheppard falls to 4 and then we go up there and pick Castle :lol

[LeBowen]

[QUOTE Risacher/Sarr/Clingan going in the top 3 would be incredible…give us Sheppard at 4.

Don't count on it.

Spurs will go Castle in that scenario.[/QUOTE]

I'm taking Castle over Sheppard and waiting to see if he drops to #8.
Pistons probably pick Sheppard, but Hornets and Blazers definitely wouldn't. They need wings.

If it's Risacher, Sarr, Clingan, Castle top4, that leaves us with at least one of Sheppard, Carter, Buzelis, Williams available at #8.
I'd take that.

[buttsR4rebounding]

I'm aware of how lottery works. Did Washington move from 2...no. If spurs finished 2 instead that's where they'd be picking...whats hard to understand

You are a moron. Spurs were in the 3 spot most of the season which would have us drafting 6 and 8th. Just stop embarrassing yourself.

[scottspurs]

We should have tanked harder is loser talk.

[rascal]

We should have tanked harder is loser talk.

Not always.

It was great the spurs tanked in 2023 and stayed in the bottom three. Imagine not having Wemby to build around now.

[baseline bum]

Would you make the same claim the year before that it doesn't make any difference had the Spurs won late season games and ended up in fifth instead of third with Wemby on the line?


Of course not, that was a draft worth tanking for and chasing a bottom three seed made sense. This one is not, especially now with a superstar who alone was enough to win games when the team tried to tank by sitting Vassell and Johnson.

[Mr. Body]

https://bbs.clutchfans.net/threads/ch44-bomb.323535/

ClutchFans thread of them melting down because one of their apparent insiders posted that it’s very likely they trade down. Based on their reaction seems like the dude is usually pretty reliable but who knows.

Risacher/Sarr/Clingan going in the top 3 would be incredible…give us Sheppard at 4.

No one is trading up for Risacher. No one. I think everyone's sniffed out that he's just okay. Maybe there's a chance Detroit jumps up to grab him, I suppose... actually that's somewhat possible. My guess is teams will value Sheppard or Castle more.

[LeBowen]

Not always.

It was great the spurs tanked in 2023 and stayed in the bottom three. Imagine not having Wemby to build around now.

It was a good decision.
But this should be the last tanking season.
I'm not saying Spurs have to make the playoffs next year, but more blatant tanking would be horrible for everything.
Player mentality, their development, attendance, reputation around the league and as we've seen the draft is way more random with the new lottery odds.
Not to mention that there will be at least five teams blatantly tanking.

We'll have #1, #4, #8, #9, #11 draft picks on the roster, with #12 already being out of the league. Five years of intentional lottery is enough.
If PATFO can't make it work with those picks and all the future picks in the stash, then maybe it's time for some other people to give it a shot.

[SpursFan86]

No one is trading up for Risacher. No one. I think everyone's sniffed out that he's just okay. Maybe there's a chance Detroit jumps up to grab him, I suppose... actually that's somewhat possible. My guess is teams will value Sheppard or Castle more.

Who said anything about someone trading up for Risacher?

The most likely scenario is ATL picking Risacher at 1, Sarr going 2, and then Memphis or another team trading up to 3 to grab Clingan. Risacher has taken the lead as the favorite to go #1. Sarr to Washington at 2 is maybe the closest thing we have to a lock in the lottery this year. 3 is the big wildcard…if Houston stays there it’s hard to see them not grabbing Sheppard. But if someone trades up, then I think it opens things up.

[BatManu20]

:cry

1804886880976081308

[Mr. Body]

Who said anything about someone trading up for Risacher?

The most likely scenario is ATL picking Risacher at 1, Sarr going 2, and then Memphis or another team trading up to 3 to grab Clingan. Risacher has taken the lead as the favorite to go #1. Sarr to Washington at 2 is maybe the closest thing we have to a lock in the lottery this year. 3 is the big wildcard…if Houston stays there it’s hard to see them not grabbing Sheppard. But if someone trades up, then I think it opens things up.

I see most likely as Clingan-Sarr-Question mark. Atlanta has been begging for a reason not to take Risacher.

[SpursFan86]

I see most likely as Clingan-Sarr-Question mark. Atlanta has been begging for a reason not to take Risacher.

Vegas odds have Risacher going #1 at -150 at this point. The Ringer, CBS, ESPN, and SI all have Risacher going #1. I think you’re just projecting your own thoughts on Risacher and thus dismissing all of this as a smokescreen or something :lol

It’s entirely possible ATL doesn’t get ZR. Like I said the only “lock” right now IMO is Sarr at #2. But as of now Risacher going #1 is by no means a long shot, and the majority of people around the league seem to think it’s the most likely scenario.

[Teamduncan21]

https://bbs.clutchfans.net/threads/ch44-bomb.323535/

ClutchFans thread of them melting down because one of their apparent insiders posted that it’s very likely they trade down. Based on their reaction seems like the dude is usually pretty reliable but who knows.

Risacher/Sarr/Clingan going in the top 3 would be incredible…give us Sheppard at 4.

They really hate spurs

[Mr. Body]

Vegas odds have Risacher going #1 at -150 at this point. The Ringer, CBS, ESPN, and SI all have Risacher going #1. I think you’re just projecting your own thoughts on Risacher and thus dismissing all of this as a smokescreen or something :lol

It’s entirely possible ATL doesn’t get ZR. Like I said the only “lock” right now IMO is Sarr at #2. But as of now Risacher going #1 is by no means a long shot, and the majority of people around the league seem to think it’s the most likely scenario.

I don't care what odds are. They're designed to draw suckers.

Maybe Risacher goes 1, we don't know. A lot of what Atlanta's been doing has been trying to dangle to pick in order to not pick him. If they were happy with him, they wouldn't be frantically trying to drop it. This is pretty obvious.

[Mr. Body]

I mean, it would be incredible for us if Atlanta took Risacher. They got an amazing pick and have to take some role-player to stick in the corner who won't budge their win percentage. They might even have gotten a better player if they drew 10 or wherever they were before.

[scott]

Yeah, many of those late season wins were pontless and does nothing for the future of the spurs. Had they lost all those games it would do nothing going into this season. Sochan and Vassell weren't even playing in many of those late season wins.

They were against tanking teams or the lucky last second one point home win against denver or injured teams like the Knicks. It got the fans excited but that's about it.

It's a new year with player changes and a clean slate of games. Had they won or lost it doesn't make any difference for this year, there is no carry over from last year.

Would you make the same claim the year before that it doesn't make any difference had the Spurs won late season games and ended up in fifth instead of third with Wemby on the line?
Of course it made a difference to end up in the bottom three which gave the spurs more lottery combinations and a better chance for Wemby.

Imagine thinking that key developmental moments for your core young players is pointless. Typical braindead rascal post.

Yeah, we should have sacrificed the development of our superstar so we could get higher in this draft, where we’d probably end up taking the same guy we’ll take at 4 anyway.

[scott]

If we could move up to #5 from #8… I’d be really intrigued by the idea of taking Buzelis and Risacher or Buzelis and Castle (but viewing Castle as a ball handling wing, not a “PG” in the traditional sense). Right after the lottery draw, I was a proponent of doubling up on wing, and I’ve come back to that concept. Get some high caliber swings at shoring up the 3/4 (which are our biggest weak spots IMO, not PG).

If you are still hungry for a PG prospect, go to PHX or NO who are both reported at wanting to drop out of the first for some seconds, and you might be able to get Topic (meh, but good value), Collier (yuck), or McCain. Or see if you can trade CHI25 for #11 and take Carter there.

Even if you hit big in the lotto next year, there is nothing stopping you from taking BPA there either, even if your wing picks hit. You’ll still have a need for another wing or guard.

[Mr. Body]

I'd be curious about a Buzelis/Castle thing, and judging by how the Spurs' contacts won't even talk about them gives me pause.

If the top does go Risacher-Sarr-Clingan(trade) then I'd be super intrigued by Castle/Sheppard. That could be fun, although I don't think Detroit passes on Sheppard on any level. Wait, I got that backwards. You take Sheppard and then if Detroit doesn't actually want Buzelis or is okay waiting, you trade up and then take Castle.

[heyheymymy]

I mean, it would be incredible for us if Atlanta took Risacher. They got an amazing pick and have to take some role-player to stick in the corner who won't budge their win percentage. They might even have gotten a better player if they drew 10 or wherever they were before.

Agreed and the more I look at it, this #1 for ATL appears to be a curse wrapped in a blessing as I've called it before. Still not thrilled because SA owns their next 3 FRPs and typically a #1 opens up a lot of options for the Hawks. I was kinda liking the status quo so I'm real resistant to any big shake ups for ATL. But in this case a 2024 #10, where the Hawks had the most natural probability to select, would be a better franchise value in ratio to skill/payscale.

Watching Hawks clog up on this unwieldy bestowment is in stark contrast to Spurs experience landing the #1 pick just a year prior. 2023 #1 was as liberating for SA as 2024 #1 could be binding for ATL.

Still say it sucks ATL made a +9 improbable leap into the #1 slot just 1 season before Spurs own their next three selections because now, I mean, is that really going to happen again? Hawks hit #1 one year later and it would've been ours but now the plot line has already been used.

Will be interesting to see how this 24 #1 bears on ATLs W/L which dictates what the Hawks give SA barring trade (which I would almost certainly not do).

[CGD]

I'd be curious about a Buzelis/Castle thing, and judging by how the Spurs' contacts won't even talk about them gives me pause.

If the top does go Risacher-Sarr-Clingan(trade) then I'd be super intrigued by Castle/Sheppard. That could be fun, although I don't think Detroit passes on Sheppard on any level. Wait, I got that backwards. You take Sheppard and then if Detroit doesn't actually want Buzelis or is okay waiting, you trade up and then take Castle.

Right, if Spurs also want Shepard along with Castle, I think the call goes in to DET along the lines of the Spurs definitely taking Shepard at 4 (taking that off the table for DET), and want to know the price for 5. Remind DET that one of Cody or Matas should be there at 8.

[heyheymymy]

ZR could keep ATL just good enough to not upgrade the roster better while ultimately not being good enough himself to make them better.

Same situation in CHI. Hope the Bulls keep Derozan like I hope Hawks keep Young because the absence in role and salary can be filled with someone who moves the needle better for these teams. Of course double edged sword because Derozan and Young have star power and can elevate at times too.

But look at CHI with Demar, #11 when we have a top 10 protected. Literally the best possible finishing position if it were 2025 with roster as is yet Derozan, P. Williams, and Drummund could be outbound which is a huge change up to roster composition when as is produced the best possible results in SA's eyes.

It's a tightrope and to a certain degree too variable to anticipate. It's nice that CHI falls to only top 8 protected for 2026 and 2027 if SA misses it in 2025 so you get a few more shots at it. Wonder what the update on Ball will say? Looks like April 2024 Ball was said to be at 70% recovery for the knee injury or so they claim. Not sure what the outlook is there but I feel like Ball is likely not ever going to return and if so that's a factor as well.

[mo7888]

If we could move up to #5 from #8… I’d be really intrigued by the idea of taking Buzelis and Risacher or Buzelis and Castle (but viewing Castle as a ball handling wing, not a “PG” in the traditional sense). Right after the lottery draw, I was a proponent of doubling up on wing, and I’ve come back to that concept. Get some high caliber swings at shoring up the 3/4 (which are our biggest weak spots IMO, not PG).

If you are still hungry for a PG prospect, go to PHX or NO who are both reported at wanting to drop out of the first for some seconds, and you might be able to get Topic (meh, but good value), Collier (yuck), or McCain. Or see if you can trade CHI25 for #11 and take Carter there.

Even if you hit big in the lotto next year, there is nothing stopping you from taking BPA there either, even if your wing picks hit. You’ll still have a need for another wing or guard.

I really like McCain in that range. Excellent deep threat that 'might' make a starting caliber PG, but would be at least a sniper off the bench if he doesn't.

[Mr. Body]

Right, if Spurs also want Shepard along with Castle, I think the call goes in to DET along the lines of the Spurs definitely taking Shepard at 4 (taking that off the table for DET), and want to know the price for 5. Remind DET that one of Cody or Matas should be there at 8.

I'd want the deal with Detroit in place before picking Sheppard. I value Castle more and want to ensure I get him.

As for cost, I do think I'd spend that CHA pick to move if that's what it takes. I really don't see a playoff team for them next year. It's two good Charlotte SRPs and those will probably be pretty good.

[heyheymymy]

Basically guaranteed one of Risacher/Sarr/Castle/Sheppard and one of Carter/Williams/Salaun/Buzelis without even spending a single dime in future capital or moving a single slot from natural selection position.

Can't wait for the draft!

[exstatic]

I mean, it would be incredible for us if Atlanta took Risacher. They got an amazing pick and have to take some role-player to stick in the corner who won't budge their win percentage. They might even have gotten a better player if they drew 10 or wherever they were before.

This is the least amazing set of #1 pick options of the millennium, so far. Their owner has showed no inclination to pay the tax, and they just got saddled with a #1 pick that in no way will justify their salary.

[heyheymymy]

If SA gets to #4 with Risacher/Castle/Sheppard all still on the board I'm ashamed to admit I would load DET a wheelbarrow full of future FRPs to move up at #5 and double dip two in any combination of Risacher/Castle/Sheppard

That would jumpstart the timeline imho

[heyheymymy]

That quote from DET FO saying they would also consider trades at # 5 is a nice development

[Mr. Body]

If SA gets to #4 with Risacher/Castle/Sheppard all still on the board I'm ashamed to admit I would load DET a wheelbarrow full of future FRPs to move up at #5 and double dip two in any combination of Risacher/Castle/Sheppard

That would jumpstart the timeline imho

FRPs shouldn't be necessary. That CHA has some value. The CHI miiiiight be on the table. Otherwise the Spurs can give them a gift basket of SRPs.

If that doesn't do it, then Charlotte is right there. They don't owe any more FRPs than the one we have, but getting it back gives them control of their SRPs and they can trade their own pick again w/ or w/out protections and/or 2026 if they want.

[Uriel]

For my tin-foil hat compadres.

Two notable names absent from the workout tracker atm - Matas Buzelis and Cody Williams and a third that is on the rise
in Carlton Carrington.

Sochan and Primo both didn’t show up on the tracker pre-draft. And although I can’t confirm it now, also believe Vassell wasn’t on that list at the time.
I can see it now. With the 4th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the San Antonio Spurs select… Matas Buzelis from G-League Ignite.

[heyheymymy]

FRPs shouldn't be necessary. That CHA has some value. The CHI miiiiight be on the table. Otherwise the Spurs can give them a gift basket of SRPs.

If that doesn't do it, then Charlotte is right there. They don't owe any more FRPs than the one we have, but getting it back gives them control of their SRPs and they can trade their own pick again w/ or w/out protections and/or 2026 if they want.

Yeah 8 to 5 is not that drastic especially with 2024's flat top 5. DET may privately want down a few pegs assuming their target(s) will still be there at #8 with the benefit of slightly cheaper pay scale.

Some seconds truly could get it done.

Not sure the leverage is there with CHA since Hornets could just aim for the entire first half of the 2025 draft to shake their obligation to SA and get rewarded with a lottery pick in the prized 2025 draft for doing so. But I like your point, if CHA wants the pick back to trade out again during their roster construction or prioritizes knowing they can win some in 2025 and still keep their draft assets too that might be valuable to a franchise with new leadership changing course and who has some key roster decisions with big names (is wife beater staying? Will Lonzo be healthy or do we shore up his position etc)

[exstatic]

Yeah 8 to 5 is not that drastic especially with 2024's flat top 5. DET may privately want down a few pegs assuming their target(s) will still be there at #8 with the benefit of slightly cheaper pay scale.

Some seconds truly could get it done.

Not sure the leverage is there with CHA since Hornets could just aim for the entire first half of the 2025 draft to shake their obligation to SA and get rewarded with a lottery pick in the prized 2025 draft for doing so. But I like your point, if CHA wants the pick back to trade out again during their roster construction or prioritizes knowing they can win some in 2025 and still keep their draft assets too that might be valuable to a franchise with new leadership changing course and who has some key roster decisions with big names (is wife beater staying? Will Lonzo be healthy or do we shore up his position etc)

They keep the pick if it’s in the lottery, regardless. You’re essentially trading them back the two second rounders they owe you if the FRP doesn’t convey.

[Mr. Body]

If you trade Charlotte's pick back to Charlotte they get:

- Their two SRPs back (2026, 2027)
- The chance to re-trade their 2025 pick to anybody (with protections)
- The ability to trade their 2026 pick, if they want

It's probably not exciting for them, but those are pretty good SRPs and flexibility isn't nothing. It also relieves any pressure to 'tank.'

[SpursBills]

Reddit thread - ESPN article on the guards this draft cycle:

https://www.reddit.com/r/NBA_Draft/comments/1dmu5bq/david_aldridge_nba_draft_confidential_coaches/

[scott]

Reddit thread - ESPN article on the guards this draft cycle:

https://www.reddit.com/r/NBA_Draft/comments/1dmu5bq/david_aldridge_nba_draft_confidential_coaches/

This is great stuff, thanks for sharing. WC Exec #1 is a chatterbox, lol

[spurraider21]

I don't care what odds are. They're designed to draw suckers.
Gold coming from Mr “anybody who takes the under is an idiot” Body

[Mr. Body]

Gold coming from Mr “anybody who takes the under is an idiot” Body

I don't gamble. If you're not aware that you're going to lose in the end, that's up to you. Our societal embrace of sports betting is going to ruin a lot of people and bring us to numerous scandals.

You may feel otherwise.

[heyheymymy]

They keep the pick if it’s in the lottery, regardless. You’re essentially trading them back the two second rounders they owe you if the FRP doesn’t convey.

It's true and 14 slots is a big target to hit, it's half the entire round.

CHA doesn't even have to really tank, they could just drop the few games they needed to in order to land 1-14 and keep their FRP in 2025 which is probably more enticing to them vs. the two second round picks if they were to choose. SA can try to offer the CHA pick back to them but it's basically saying here you can win up into 15-30 now if you want to which I'm not sure is the juicy trade bargaining chip it needs to be to lure Hornets to the negotiating table. CHA can just say or we lose 5-10 more games, get just as far anyway, but keep the FRP too. Plus if CHA keeps it, that means it's a lottery pick, so if they keep it, it's valuable too.

[ismael-robert]

You are a moron. Spurs were in the 3 spot most of the season which would have us drafting 6 and 8th. Just stop embarrassing yourself.

Oh my gosh this is the dumbest out of everyone who has misunderstood...yes we WERE in third so I'm saying we should have lost more games to move up to 2...Washington had a better record than us most of the season yet wound up below us...anyways we'll see Wed if we give anything up to move up

[heyheymymy]

Although who knows what CHA FO mindset is rn. New leadership may prioritize controlling their future or want the asset unlocked to make moves with for roster reconstruction. Mr Body makes a solid list of perks, scant as they may be, on what's in it for CHA.

I'm just saying if I'm CHA I'm telling SA or we could do nothing and probably only owe you some seconds which feel easier to let go than the FRP in a treasure chest 2025 first round.

[exstatic]

It's true and 14 slots is a big target to hit, it's half the entire round.

CHA doesn't even have to really tank, they could just drop the few games they needed to in order to land 1-14 and keep their FRP in 2025 which is probably more enticing to them vs. the two second round picks if they were to choose. SA can try to offer the CHA pick back to them but it's basically saying here you can win up into 15-30 now if you want to which I'm not sure is the juicy trade bargaining chip it needs to be to lure Hornets to the negotiating table. CHA can just say or we lose 5-10 more games, get just as far anyway, but keep the FRP too. Plus if CHA keeps it, that means it's a lottery pick, so if they keep it, it's valuable too.
Someone else pointed out that they can also re-trade the pick, or trade their 2026 pick in advance if they get 2025 back.

[rascal]

Someone else pointed out that they can also re-trade the pick, or trade their 2026 pick in advance if they get 2025 back.

Would you consider trading 4 for Charlotte to lift the lottery protection on the 25 pick? How about trading 8 for Charlotte to lift protections on the 25?

[heyheymymy]

Someone else pointed out that they can also re-trade the pick, or trade their 2026 pick in advance if they get 2025 back.

Agreed, that's tantalizing for CHA to open up their options for more flexibility and control of future assets.

Honestly if I'm CHA I'm listening if SA calls. #6 to #8 is not a bad slide down For Hornets in exchange for brining your natural pick(s) back home and the unlocked command of your future. Spurs leverage in CHA 2025 based deal talks seems baked into CHA's perspective on this.

Wonder if CHA FO may even value the ability to win up in 2024-2025 season too. Will be interesting to see what a new vision in Charlotte looks like but I could see them more aggressively win-now than before. Not sure how they get there with current pieces plus moves though.

[SpursBills]

This is great stuff, thanks for sharing. WC Exec #1 is a chatterbox, lol

It mostly told me things that we've rehashed, but the real eye-opening one for me was multiple execs and scouts' opinions of McCain. I don't think he succeeds as your sole initiator, but in a multiple ball-handler multiple initiator system like the spurs are trying to run, he works really really well. His fit for Detroit and Charlotte and beside any big playmaker is also really nice.

If you take peoples' criticisms of Sheppard and Castle, and take the halfway point between them, a lot of it describes McCain

Physical tools - he's not Castle, and he's as tall and as long as Sheppard, but he's big and strong. He weighed in a 203 at the combine, which is heavier than guys like Jrue Holiday, Kyle Lowry, and Fred VanVleet when they started in the league. He probably ends up around 210, which is really heavy for a 6'3" guard.

POA defense - he's not elite like Castle, but he's also way better than Sheppard. His weight probably helps a lot here, as strength is often an overlooked factor in defense - it allows you to bump guys off their spots consistently and hold up on a switch in the post.

Shooting - not quite 50+% from 3 like Sheppard, but high volume 40+% coming off screens and pin downs, quick release; way way better than Castle obviously

Advanced stats - Castle's are bad offensively especially against top 50 and top 100 competition; Sheppard's are elite. McCain is pretty good - 8.5 BPM is more than respectable for a sophomore-aged freshman

College team - Sheppard was a top 2 player for an underachieving first round exit. Castle was a key starter for a dominant national champion. McCain by the end of the season was arguably the best player for an elite 8 team.

DAWG/40 - elite intangibles based on everything I've read about him; Castle is great and I've never heard anything bad about Sheppard, but McCain is definitely not worse than either of these two

Competitiveness - Sheppard had his worst game of the season and shrank in his one tournament game but had multiple good games against high competition; Castle played well throughout the tournament but his offensive numbers crater against any kind of decent competition. McCain consistently raised his game in the highest leverage situations

A few weeks ago I floated the idea of trying to get McCain and Tyler Smith with 8 and 35 through some combination of trading up and trading down if Castle was the pick at 4. In my opinion, this is still the way I would go if the spurs decide Castle is that guy. McCain provides the ball-handling necessary to serve as a dribble-pass-shoot cog, he's big enough to not get hunted easily, and he provides the elite shooting necessary as a spacer if you want to play a mediocre/bad shooter in your lineup. I am actually not sure why he is not high on Detroit's list as a trade-down candidate as his toughness, defense, and shooting pairs incredibly well with Cade, arguably even better than Sheppard.

[scott]

It mostly told me things that we've rehashed, but the real eye-opening one for me was multiple execs and scouts' opinions of McCain. I don't think he succeeds as your sole initiator, but in a multiple ball-handler multiple initiator system like the spurs are trying to run, he works really really well. His fit for Detroit and Charlotte and beside any big playmaker is also really nice.

If you take peoples' criticisms of Sheppard and Castle, and take the halfway point between them, a lot of it describes McCain

Physical tools - he's not Castle, and he's as tall and as long as Sheppard, but he's big and strong. He weighed in a 203 at the combine, which is heavier than guys like Jrue Holiday, Kyle Lowry, and Fred VanVleet when they started in the league. He probably ends up around 210, which is really heavy for a 6'3" guard.

POA defense - he's not elite like Castle, but he's also way better than Sheppard. His weight probably helps a lot here, as strength is often an overlooked factor in defense - it allows you to bump guys off their spots consistently and hold up on a switch in the post.

Shooting - not quite 50+% from 3 like Sheppard, but high volume 40+% coming off screens and pin downs, quick release; way way better than Castle obviously

Advanced stats - Castle's are bad offensively especially against top 50 and top 100 competition; Sheppard's are elite. McCain is pretty good - 8.5 BPM is more than respectable for a sophomore-aged freshman

College team - Sheppard was a top 2 player for an underachieving first round exit. Castle was a key starter for a dominant national champion. McCain by the end of the season was arguably the best player for an elite 8 team.

DAWG/40 - elite intangibles based on everything I've read about him; Castle is great and I've never heard anything bad about Sheppard, but McCain is definitely not worse than either of these two

Competitiveness - Sheppard had his worst game of the season and shrank in his one tournament game but had multiple good games against high competition; Castle played well throughout the tournament but his offensive numbers crater against any kind of decent competition. McCain consistently raised his game in the highest leverage situations

A few weeks ago I floated the idea of trying to get McCain and Tyler Smith with 8 and 35 through some combination of trading up and trading down if Castle was the pick at 4. In my opinion, this is still the way I would go if the spurs decide Castle is that guy. McCain provides the ball-handling necessary to serve as a dribble-pass-shoot cog, he's big enough to not get hunted easily, and he provides the elite shooting necessary as a spacer if you want to play a mediocre/bad shooter in your lineup. I am actually not sure why he is not high on Detroit's list as a trade-down candidate as his toughness, defense, and shooting pairs incredibly well with Cade, arguably even better than Sheppard.

Good stuff. McCain is one of a handful of prospects (along with Smith, and even Carter) who I think we are just not in the right range for. With that said, if there is an opportunity to move out of 8 for a proven player, I’m really eying PHX and NO as opportunities to move up into for McCain and Smith, if they make it that far.

What’s the high end of McCain’s range in your opinion? I would think 13 would be where he starts to come into play

[SpursBills]

Good stuff. McCain is one of a handful of prospects (along with Smith, and even Carter) who I think we are just not in the right range for. With that said, if there is an opportunity to move out of 8 for a proven player, I’m really eying PHX and NO as opportunities to move up into for McCain and Smith, if they make it that far.

What’s the high end of McCain’s range in your opinion? I would think 13 would be where he starts to come into play

I think he's actually perfect for OKC's dribble-pass-shoot system so I agree with you, probably around 12-13. He was a natural replacement for Monk if Sacramento had not resigned him since he's from California and was a desperately needed shooter. I was going to say trade down with Chicago for him from 8 to 11, pick up an asset, bundle that asset with 35 and maybe 1-2 seconds to move up to mid 20s and pick up Tyler Smith.

[mo7888]

Good stuff. McCain is one of a handful of prospects (along with Smith, and even Carter) who I think we are just not in the right range for. With that said, if there is an opportunity to move out of 8 for a proven player, I’m really eying PHX and NO as opportunities to move up into for McCain and Smith, if they make it that far.

What’s the high end of McCain’s range in your opinion? I would think 13 would be where he starts to come into play

I think McCain starts getting looks at #10 with Utah. I believe that's his ceiling.

[scottspurs]

Not always.

It was great the spurs tanked in 2023 and stayed in the bottom three. Imagine not having Wemby to build around now.
That team just sucked.

[offset formation]

They keep the pick if it’s in the lottery, regardless. You’re essentially trading them back the two second rounders they owe you if the FRP doesn’t convey.

Narrator: It won't convey

[FireMicoHalili]

Agreed and the more I look at it, this #1 for ATL appears to be a curse wrapped in a blessing as I've called it before. Still not thrilled because SA owns their next 3 FRPs and typically a #1 opens up a lot of options for the Hawks. I was kinda liking the status quo so I'm real resistant to any big shake ups for ATL. But in this case a 2024 #10, where the Hawks had the most natural probability to select, would be a better franchise value in ratio to skill/payscale.

Watching Hawks clog up on this in unwieldy bestowment is in stark contrast to Spurs experience landing the #1 pick just a year prior. 2023 #1 was as liberating for SA as 2024 #1 could be binding for ATL.

Still say it sucks ATL made a +9 improbable leap into the #1 slot just 1 season before Spurs own their next three selections because now, I mean, is that really going to happen again? Hawks hit #1 one year later and it would've been ours but now the plot line has already been used.

Will be interesting to see how this 24 #1 bears on ATLs W/L which dictates what the Hawks give SA barring trade (which I would almost certainly not do).
I understand Atlanta’s posturing of picking either Clingan or Risacher so they can extract more draft assets from the Spurs. So obvious they’re trying to gauge which prospect the Spurs value more so they can threaten to pick whomever it is, the problem is they don’t have any inkling. All the buzz just points to Atlanta being clueless and willing to trade down in a draft with no clear number one. SA highly likely doesn’t care since they can just go BPA. As smart as Fields is he’s still got a long way, and it’s clear he just wants his draft capital back but the Spurs aren’t biting.

[Ariel]

I think he's actually perfect for OKC's dribble-pass-shoot system so I agree with you, probably around 12-13. He was a natural replacement for Monk if Sacramento had not resigned him since he's from California and was a desperately needed shooter. I was going to say trade down with Chicago for him from 8 to 11, pick up an asset, bundle that asset with 35 and maybe 1-2 seconds to move up to mid 20s and pick up Tyler Smith.
On paper McCain is a player OKC should love but I have a hard time picturing him there when they already have Isaiah Joe, Cason Wallace and now Caruso (on top of SGA, JDubb, etc). Feels like they could use a physical front court player who can rebound (and, of course, shoot) but I'm not sure anyone is available that matches that description and I can see them moving the pick for a veteran or future draft capital. But I'd like both him and Tyler Smith for the Spurs.

[Mr. Body]

I understand Atlanta’s posturing of picking either Clingan or Risacher so they can extract more draft assets from the Spurs. So obvious they’re trying to gauge which prospect the Spurs value more so they can threaten to pick whomever it is, the problem is they don’t have any inkling. All the buzz just points to Atlanta being clueless and willing to trade down in a draft with no clear number one. SA highly likely doesn’t care since they can just go BPA. As smart as Fields is he’s still got a long way, and it’s clear he just wants his draft capital back but the as Spurs aren’t biting.

The player Atlanta actually wants is likely Clingan. I suppose. But they're probably okay with Houston grabbing and trading him, it seems.

Maybe they actually want Risacher of the two, but Clinton seems like the better pick and fit.

[mystargtr34]

My guess is Atlanta just goes Clingan at 1. Unless they can get like 2 future firsts from Memphis while swapping 1 and 9.

But yeah there’s too many permutations to even bother predicting what they do. It depends who they like the most in the top 10 then estimating where they think they can get that player.

[FireMicoHalili]

The player Atlanta actually wants is likely Clingan. I suppose. But they're probably okay with Houston grabbing and trading him, it seems.

Maybe they actually want Risacher of the two, but Clinton seems like the better pick and fit.
Their problem is range. They’re in a spot of leverage but no one’s budging. They have zero leverage against the Spurs and I doubt Risacher will move the needle substantially. All the rumors are probably emanating from the Hawks themselves and it’s sort of funny Fields thinks people aren’t seeing through their smokescreens.

It’s either they pick Clingan who might be a reach or Risacher who won’t do much for them given their glut at wing. The Spurs can comfortably just say no to any trade down scenarios unless ATL offers too good a package, and I’m not sure they have any other desirable assets which fits San Antonio’s timeline. Probably has to look for another trading partner who can offer assets befitting a number one pick, but that’s difficult to do in a weak draft.

Not sure how Fields optimizes value here, but it doesn’t make sense for the Spurs to engage.

One benefit is seeing which NBA media guys are just paid hacks. Obviously not doing their homework, dumbass sellswords lol

[exstatic]

I understand Atlanta’s posturing of picking either Clingan or Risacher so they can extract more draft assets from the Spurs. So obvious they’re trying to gauge which prospect the Spurs value more so they can threaten to pick whomever it is, the problem is they don’t have any inkling. All the buzz just points to Atlanta being clueless and willing to trade down in a draft with no clear number one. SA highly likely doesn’t care since they can just go BPA. As smart as Fields is he’s still got a long way, and it’s clear he just wants his draft capital back but the as Spurs aren’t biting.

Spurs don’t play that game. If there isn’t an agreement in advance, SA will just pick the remaining player they like best.

[FireMicoHalili]

Spurs don’t play that game. If there isn’t an agreement in advance, SA will just pick the remaining player they like best.
Exactly. It’s either some NBA media guys don’t see how absurd it is for the Spurs to package 4+8 for 1 in a weak draft or they’re getting paid to generate chatter. SA likely knows which guys they want prior. If ATL is trading no. 1 I highly doubt SA is a trade partner. Neither Young nor Murray fits the timeline and Pop has publicly said they aren’t rushing the process.

Jonathan Givony if you’re reading this I implore you to do better lol

[scott]

I'm obviously kidding here... but it's almost to a point where ATL has to pay us to swap 1 for 4 :lol

[BackHome]

In this draft I would hate to have the number 1 pick..

[FireMicoHalili]

In this draft I would hate to have the number 1 pick..
Specifically for the Hawks, yes. Sarr would be nice for any other team. The Hawks have a specific context. The Hawks can’t tear it down because they’ve mortgaged draft equity in favor of the Spurs, they can’t get their draft equity back because they have nothing the Spurs want, and the players they reportedly covet will either be a reach or a redundancy.

Noting Sarr has refused to work out for them, though they can still choose to go BPA and hope Sarr pans out like JJJ did for Memphis.

[Mr. Body]

I don't see why they don't canvas Detroit for Risacher or Memphis for Clingan, etc. I suppose they already have.

[Obstructed_View]

Because we do not know Washington would get second pick back then. We could have tanked much harder like Detroit and end up at 5.

Hindsight is 20-20. So now we know that Washington kept their pick. If we would have tanked too hard we would end up like Detroit. Or slightly less hard. End up like Charlotte.

At that point. We didn't know.

So for example. I could say we could have played harder to be rank 10th or whatever hawks pick was. So that we get first pick. Or whatever rockets were to get third pick.

But how do we know?

Exactly. The numbers are set, but only because it already happened.

We know exactly where teams would pick based on their record. The Spurs lost a coin toss to Houston last year. If they had won the coin toss, the Rockets would have Victor. The Spurs coincided with that one ping ping ball drawing in the draft because their record and position. If they'd finished higher or lower, they would not have moved up. If they had finished 14 games better, they would have gotten the first pick. The new rules make record so inconsequential that there isn't any point in whining about tanking.

[CGD]

If they keep 1, I don’t buy that ATL won’t take Sarr. Who cares that Sarr didn’t work out for them, or that Sarr really really really wants to go the WAS?

[FireMicoHalili]

If they keep 1, I don’t buy that ATL won’t take Sarr. Who cares that Sarr didn’t work out for them, or that Sarr really really really wants to go the WAS?
Seems they still end up doing that unless they find takers. JJJ is a good precedent for still going BPA in spite of his initial reluctance to join MEM.

[TeKu]

I love draft season, it's a crap shoot at the best of times and the top of this draft is far from the best of anything. I see Vecenie is starting his Big Board at Tier 3! With the cost/benefit of those early picks being so much weaker this year I'd be looking to trade out of #4 to someone who falls in love with Player A (there's always someone) and take our flyer on risky upside at the #8 lower salary slot. E.g, #4 to Charlotte for removal of protection on their 25 FRP owed, and Topic at #8 (who IMO has been their target from way back).

[BacktoBasics]

I love draft season, it's a crap shoot at the best of times and the top of this draft is far from the best of anything. I see Vecenie is starting his Big Board at Tier 3! With the cost/benefit of those early picks being so much weaker this year I'd be looking to trade out of #4 to someone who falls in love with Player A (there's always someone) and take our flyer on risky upside at the #8 lower salary slot. E.g, #4 to Charlotte for removal of protection on their 25 FRP owed, and Topic at #8 (who IMO has been their target from way back).I’m not giving a 4th pick simply to remove protection on the charlotte pick.

Now if they want 4 for 6 and remove protection for a couple 2nds and something on the front of our roster I’m on board.

[rascal]

I’m not giving a 4th pick simply to remove protection on the charlotte pick.

Now if they want 4 for 6 and remove protection for a couple 2nds and something on the front of our roster I’m on board.

I would accept the Charlotte pick with removed protections for 4 if Castle is gone. Charlotte is not likely to make the playoffs next year so the Spurs will get an extra pick in the lottery in the deep 2025 draft.

[Mr. Body]

Getting kinda interesting. The only teams that seem, as of now, secure and happy where they are in the top 5 are:

Washington
San Antonio

The other of the five are making overtures that they'd trade down.

[scott]

Understanding that history is no foolproof look into the future, but about when did we start hearing buzz about Primo, Vassell, and Sochan? It feels like Sochan was a bit more telegraphed, and of course there was no surprises about drafting Wemby…

I remember on draft day there started to be chatter about Primo (even if folks were still hoping for Sengun at that point), but IIRC, Vassell kind of came out of nowhere, right?

[BacktoBasics]

I would accept the Charlotte pick with removed protections for 4 if Castle is gone. Charlotte is not likely to make the playoffs next year so the Spurs will get an extra pick in the lottery in the deep 2025 draft.

I wouldn’t do it. Too much risk. But I understand the argument. It’s a compelling argument. But super risky.

[Gandalf]

Understanding that history is no foolproof look into the future, but about when did we start hearing buzz about Primo, Vassell, and Sochan? It feels like Sochan was a bit more telegraphed, and of course there was no surprises about drafting Wemby…

I remember on draft day there started to be chatter about Primo (even if folks were still hoping for Sengun at that point), but IIRC, Vassell kind of came out of nowhere, right?

I don’t remember talk about Primo with that pick; I just remember Sengun dropping to us, and when Primo’s name was announced, going ballistic (What the %#*~ Spurs? What the %#*~?! This isn’t even funny anymore! Every #%*~ year!!!).

[TD 21]

If I'm reading this right . . .

- The Hawks want to trade down to 4 to select Clingan, but obviously can't do that until they're sure the Rockets aren't trading down from 3 to a team trading up for Clingan.

- The Spurs would only trade up to 1 if Murray comes attached, otherwise they'd be comfortable selecting either Castle at 4 or if Risacher or Sheppard is available, possibly one of them.

- The Hawks would only attach Murray to 1 if, among other things, the Spurs put their '25 1st on the table.



Understanding that history is no foolproof look into the future, but about when did we start hearing buzz about Primo, Vassell, and Sochan? It feels like Sochan was a bit more telegraphed, and of course there was no surprises about drafting Wemby…

I remember on draft day there started to be chatter about Primo (even if folks were still hoping for Sengun at that point), but IIRC, Vassell kind of came out of nowhere, right?

Vassell and Sochan were obvious. Primo was a shock (though I never bought Sengun) because of where he was mocked, but the way he presented himself was typical Spur.

[scott]

I recall leading up to the draft there was talk of Primo being a late riser and the Spurs being on of the teams interested. When the Spurs were finally on the clock, they had a highlight package queued up of possible picks and Primo being one, with talking points about how the Spurs liked his demeanor.

Maybe I’m making all of this up in my mind… but that’s what I seem to recall.

[scott]

If I'm reading this right . . .

- The Hawks want to trade down to 4 to select Clingan, but obviously can't do that until they're sure the Rockets aren't trading down from 3 to a team trading up for Clingan.

- The Spurs would only trade up to 1 if Murray comes attached, otherwise they'd be comfortable selecting either Castle at 4 or if Risacher or Sheppard is available, possibly one of them.

- The Hawks would only attach Murray to 1 if, among other things, the Spurs put their '25 1st on the table.




Vassell and Sochan were obvious. Primo was a shock (though I never bought Sengun) because of where he was mocked, but the way he presented himself was typical Spur.

Where did you see the Murray talk?

[objective]

The Vassell draft was the covid draft and everyone was remote, so there wasn't as much on the ground leaks and reporting. But Vassell was a very common player to mock to SA at the time. I remember wanting Williams but still being happy with Vassell

[Uriel]

I remember Vassell sliding down in many mocks just prior to the draft (much like Dillingham is now), only to be picked well within the lottery by the Spurs.

[Uriel]

Over the past five drafts (2019 to 2023), the three teams that have added the most value on a per-pick basis relative to what we would expect based on where they picked all have ties to the Houston Rockets (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/hou/houston-rockets)' front office. Along with Houston, that group includes the Philadelphia 76ers (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/phi/philadelphia-76ers), who hired longtime Rockets executive Daryl Morey in 2020, and the Sacramento Kings (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/sac/sacramento-kings), who hired Monte McNair from Houston in 2020 as their lead executive.

Those teams rank just ahead of the Golden State Warriors (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/gs/golden-state-warriors) and Utah Jazz (https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/utah/utah-jazz).Although Morey oversaw only one of those drafts, the Rockets themselves are far and away No. 1 by this measure, getting almost double the expected value of their picks. Houston picked the two players who most exceeded the expectations for their draft spot, Alperen Sengun (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/4871144/alperen-sengun) at No. 16 in 2021 and Cam Whitmore (https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/5105592/cam-whitmore) at No. 20 last year.
Fuck the film sessions and the scouting reports, just make the picks based on the numbers. :lol

[Vienna]

I think McCain starts getting looks at #10 with Utah. I believe that's his ceiling.

depending on what Grizzlies plans with Smart and Kennard are, they might look at McCain at #9.

[JPB]

Givony and Woo's today's mock and "intel".

https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/40403204/2024-nba-mock-draft-latest-first-second-round-predictions-all-58-picks

First round

1. Atlanta Hawks

Zaccharie Risacher, SF, Bourg (France) | Age: 19.2

The Hawks continue to signal that they have not yet determined their draft night direction, which makes sense considering the nature of this draft, how even the talent at the top is and trade opportunities that could unfold once they are on the clock.

They simultaneously have decisions to make with players already on their roster, especially Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, who seem destined to part ways in the not-too-distant future. The New Orleans Pelicans loom as a potential destination for one of them, with Brandon Ingram the most attractive and attainable target on the Pels' roster. Jalen Johnson appears to be the only player the Hawks will not consider moving.

Risacher, as he has for much of the pre-draft cycle, continues to hold firm as the choice at No. 1 following a positive workout with Atlanta. The feedback from those who have seen him in the United States is that he is a better passer and does a better job of initiating contact and playing through physicality than is expected with his lean frame.

Donovan Clingan, another favorite of the Hawks' coaching staff, remains in play at No. 1, but he might be a more realistic option if the Hawks trade down a few spots with the San Antonio Spurs, something that might not materialize until the Spurs are on the clock at No. 4.

The Hawks getting back their 2025 unprotected first-rounder from San Antonio would be a huge boon, but it isn't clear whether the Spurs would be willing to pay such a high price, while other great trade opportunities do not appear to have materialized thus far.

NBA teams say the Hawks are indicating they could take Alex Sarr at No. 1, which some speculate might be more an attempt to force the Washington Wizards to trade up. -- Jonathan Givony

[JPB]

2. Washington Wizards
Alex Sarr, PF/C, Perth (Australia) | Age: 19.1

With days to go until the draft, rival teams are viewing Washington as Sarr's likely destination. Sarr still has not worked out for Atlanta at No. 1, although the Hawks have continued to try to bring him in. He is thought to be comfortable coming off the board one spot later, with the Wizards' younger roster offering a clearer path to playing time and an opportunity to grow into an expanded role. It's worth noting that Risacher visited the Wizards over the weekend, meeting team brass and touring the city.

The Wizards have been quiet throughout the pre-draft process. But they had a consistent scouting presence in Perth this season, and they are thought to be keen on Sarr's long-term upside. His availability here remains contingent on there being no surprises at No. 1, but the widely held belief around the league is that Washington is Sarr's floor. Amid a full-scale rebuild, Washington has the runway to be patient with Sarr's development, making it a strong fit for him -- and vice versa -- on paper.

Sarr arguably has the greatest upside available here, with the physical attributes to be a top defender as well as the makings of a useful offensive skill set as a finisher and improving floor spacer. -- Jeremy Woo

[JPB]

3. Houston Rockets (via Nets)
Reed Sheppard, PG/SG, Kentucky | Age: 19.9

This pick has been in trade conversations since the moment the Rockets got it in the draft lottery (14 teams), and it likely will continue to be attainable until NBA commissioner Adam Silver announces the selection at No. 3. Many NBA teams are operating under the assumption it will be moved in their internal mock drafts, but that's difficult to plan for considering how rare these types of trades are from a historical perspective.

The Rockets are clearly in win-now mode and would love to add star power to their roster, with players such as Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler, Mikal Bridges and Brandon Ingram as well as role players including Brook Lopez and Marcus Smart being some that other teams say the Rockets could have interest in targeting (with some names more far-fetched than others).

Several of the teams rumored to be exploring the cost of moving up in the draft -- for example, the Memphis Grizzlies and Oklahoma City Thunder -- appear to have interest in selecting Clingan (the No. 3 player on the ESPN Top 100 Big Board), who has not worked out for the Rockets. Clingan getting selected at No. 3 would have a cascading effect, sending the draft in an entirely different direction than the one we have mapped out below.

Should the Rockets stand pat, Sheppard has been the favorite here since draft lottery night. Houston's ownership group traveled to meet with him in Los Angeles fairly early in the process, and he visited the Rockets' facility to make his case as the best shooter in the draft. -- Givony

[JPB]

4. San Antonio Spurs
Stephon Castle, PG/SG, UConn | Age: 19.6

The Spurs got an up-close look at Risacher in a private workout this past weekend, which should help them determine how aggressive they want or need to be in trade talks for moving up to No. 1, where the French wing is currently favored to be drafted. The Spurs have the assets to do so if they want, holding the Hawks' unprotected 2025 and 2027 first-round picks as well as a pick-swap option in 2026 thanks to the Dejounte Murray trade.

The Spurs are telling rival teams they will be taking a best-player-available approach at picks No. 4 and No. 8 despite having backcourt needs and a lack of shooting and playmaking -- areas they'll need to address in due time. Taking a patient approach seems to be San Antonio's strategy for now, as there are plenty of scenarios in which more attractive options become available in the near future.

San Antonio has expressed increasing interest in Clingan as of late, even going as far as interviewing him in recent days to get to know him better. Some think this might be a case of the Spurs signaling to rivals that the No. 4 pick is where they need to get to if they want to draft Clingan, as opposed to real interest in a fascinating twin-towers lineup with the 7-foot-3 UConn champion and 7-foot-5 Victor Wembanyama.

They also brought Reed Sheppard, Rob Dillingham, Matas Buzelis, Dalton Knecht and others in for workouts.

With Risacher and Sheppard off the board in this scenario, Castle appears to be a strong candidate to hear his name called here. -- Givony

[JPB]

8. San Antonio Spurs
Rob Dillingham, PG, Kentucky | Age: 19.4

Dillingham conducted his first visits of the pre-draft process this past week with San Antonio, before moving on to Detroit and also meeting with Utah. An ankle injury he suffered prior to the NBA draft combine prevented him from conducting any competitive workouts for teams.

Dillingham's dynamic ballhandling, playmaking and shot-making prowess could be a natural fit for the Spurs with the creativity he offers in the open court and the pick-and-roll. Pairing him with a veteran mentor guard such as Chris Paul -- whom Dillingham has known from a young age, having played for his grassroots EYBL team (Team CP3) -- could make sense should the Golden State Warriors elect to waive Paul's non-guaranteed contract prior to their June 28 deadline.

Buzelis, Knecht, Williams, Tidjane Salaun and Nikola Topic are said to be other prospects under consideration here. Should the Spurs pass on Dillingham, Utah at No. 10 and the Miami Heat at No. 15 are viewed by teams as strong suitors, but there also could be trade opportunities that arise in the late lottery for the No. 8 prospect on our big board. -- Givony

[rankingtear]

Twitterverse rumor SAS picking a guy that is dropping at 8. GoatInsider : Topic, Givony : Dilly.

[ginobilized]

I fear the tsunami of smokescreens and virtual silence about him has the Spurs getting "their guy" at 8, Nikola Topic. He might be the connector this team needs or he might get the Beno treatment.

This has the potential to be the most unpredictable draft I can recall. So many options, angles and team needs in play.

One possibility that seems obvious to me is that the Thunder need a strong rebounding, defensive center. Clingan would put them in a better position to compete with the Twolves, Nuggets and Mavs. If he's on the board at 3 and the Rockets are willing to trade with a rival, I could see Presti making that heist.

[scottspurs]

Love to hear that Spurs are drafting best player available. I hate narratives that the Spurs have to come away with this or come away that. Whether it be a shooter, a point guard or whatever. You don’t draft for need unless you are a contender. Spurs won 22 games. Draft the best talent and figure the rest out later. If they have Clingan as their top player when they are on the clock do it. Same for Sarr. Fit be damned because this was not a good team last year. You may not be drafting starters in this draft. That is okay.

[CGD]

Twitterverse rumor SAS picking a guy that is dropping at 8. GoatInsider : Topic, Givony : Dilly.

Definitely think Topic at 8 is in play, especially if they’re super happy with the selection at 4. RC won’t be able to help himself.

I’ve never thought Dillingham was a serious option but we’ll see.

[SpursFan86]

1805224898995871881

Believe this is the first confirmation we’ve gotten that the Spurs worked out Buzelis.

[rankingtear]

Timvp is the smokescreen agent for Topic.

[Mr. Body]

Topic went from top 3 to possibly out of the lottery in like a month. No one's talking about him, not even the big mock guys.

I still don't think the Spurs go with him for the reasons I've had for a long time. He doesn't fit either of what the Spurs need from the role - shooting or defense - and his playstyle seems to be both limited and will get in the way of where Wembanyama works best. It's hard for Topic to get into the lane when Wemby wants to go there. It's hard for Wemby to use the lane when Topic wants to get there.

Ultimately I don't think Topic is such a good prospect after all that he survived another deeply concerning injury. This isn't Kenyon Martin (in a weak draft) who was still considered so good he was worth waiting a year to play and went number one.

[BatManu20]

Not happening tbh. Posting anyways.

1805233601304256827

[John B]

Twitterverse rumor SAS picking a guy that is dropping at 8. GoatInsider : Topic, Givony : Dilly.

Topic at 8 means the Spurs really like this guy. But would they select regardless who they got at 4? Castle at 4 could play SF in the future. Sarr at 4 is possible with Clingan in the mix

I think Topic at 8 is okay if he’s viewed as the future starting PG despite not playing this coming season. He’s viewed as the player who is the best passing guard, and who can also put up points in many ways.

[SpursFan86]

Not happening tbh. Posting anyways.

1805233601304256827

Yeah I’m not buying it. JPB posted the excerpt of it above from his mock draft…in the full context he even admits that some people think it’s more to show teams that they’re not going be able to get Clingan at 5 or beyond.


San Antonio has expressed increasing interest in Clingan as of late, even going as far as interviewing him in recent days to get to know him better. Some think this might be a case of the Spurs signaling to rivals that the No. 4 pick is where they need to get to if they want to draft Clingan, as opposed to real interest in a fascinating twin-towers lineup with the 7-foot-3 UConn champion and 7-foot-5 Victor Wembanyama.

[Mr. Body]

Topic very much feels like a "who the fuck is this guy?" when it comes to next season's offseason as we get two picks in the new, great lottery and maybe three, and suddenly having to make adjustments to his reduced playstyle and needs.